Structural similarity between thyroid peroxidase [Homo sapiens] and SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein ­ An autoimmune thyroiditis triggering mechanism in COVID-19 carriers? / Similaridade estrutural entre a tireoperoxidase humana [Homo sapiens] e a glicoproteína de superfície do SARS-CoV-2 ­ Um mecanismo de desencadeamento da tiroidite autoimune nos portadores da COVID-19?

Introduction: there are reports of autoimmune disease related to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) such neurological syndromes and hematological syndromes, and more recently autoimmune thyroid dysfunctions have been described. These reports suggest that SARS-CoV-2 acts as a probable trigger for triggering the autoimmunity process. Aim: to evaluate structural similarity between thyroid peroxidase [Homo sapiens] (TPO) and SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (COVID-19), and to propose this similarity as a likely trigger for autoimmune thyroiditis. Methodology: using bioinformatics tools, we compare the amino acids (AA) sequences between protein structure of TPO and chain A COVID-19, chain B COVID-19, and chain C COVID-19, accessible in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, by Basic Local Alignment Search Tool in order to locate the homologous regions between the sequences of AA. Results: the homology sequence between the TPO and COVID-19 ranged from 27.0 % (10 identical residues out of 37 AA in the sequence) to 56.0% (5 identical residues out of 9 AA in the sequence). The similar alignments demonstrated relatively high E values in function of short alignment. Conclusion: data suggest a possible pathological link between TPO and COVID-19. The structural similarity of AA sequences between TPO and COVID-19 may present a molecular mimicry suggesting the possibility of antigen crossover between TPO and COVID-19 that might represent an immunological basis for autoimmune thyroiditis associated with COVID-19.

Introdução: há relatos de doenças autoimunes relacionadas à síndrome respiratória aguda grave por coronavírus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), tais como síndromes neurológicas e hematológicas, e mais recentemente disfunções autoimunes da tireoide foram descritas. Esses relatos sugerem que o SARS-CoV-2 atue como um provável gatilho para desencadear o processo de autoimunidade. Objetivo: avaliar a similaridade estrutural entre a peroxidase tireoidiana [Homo sapiens] (TPO) e a glicoproteína de superfície SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) e propor essa similaridade como provável gatilho para o desencadeamento da tireoidite autoimune. Metodologia: utilizando ferramentas de bioinformática, comparamos as sequências de aminoácidos (AA) entre a estrutura da TPO e a estrutura da cadeia A do COVID-19, a cadeia B do COVID-19 e a cadeia C do COVID-19, acessível no banco de dados do National Center for Biotechnology Information, através da Ferramenta Básica de Pesquisa de Alinhamento Local para localizar as regiões homólogas entre as sequências de AA. Resultados: a sequência de homologia entre o TPO e COVID-19 variou de 27,0% (10 resíduos idênticos em 37 AA nas sequências) a 56,0% (5 resíduos idênticos em 9 AA nas sequências). Os alinhamentos semelhantes demonstraram valores E relativamente altos em função do alinhamento curto. Conclusão: os dados sugerem uma possível ligação patológica entre TPO e COVID-19. A similaridade estrutural das sequências de AA entre TPO e COVID-19 pode apresentar um mimetismo molecular sugerindo a possibilidade de cruzamento de antígeno entre TPO e COVID-19 que podem representar uma base imunológica para tireoidite autoimune associada a COVID-19.

Effects of Urtica dioica Seeds on Oxidative/ Nitrosative Stress Levels and Myeloperoxidase Activity in Muscle Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

Abstract The purpose of this study is to evaluate the preventive effects of Urtica dioica (UD) on muscle ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. A total of 27 male Wistar rats were divided into three groups as the control group (1), I/R + saline group (2), and I/R+UD group (3). Group 1 did not receive any treatment. Group 2 was administered a total of 2mL/kg saline (1mL/kg before ischemia and 1 mL/kg after reperfusion), and group 3 was given a total of 2mL of UD (1mL/kg before ischemia and 1mL/kg after reperfusion) as treatment. Saline and UD were administered via intraesophageal canula once a day for five days. At the end of five days, all the rats were exposed to muscle ischemia for 60 min followed by 60 min of reperfusion of the bilateral hindlimbs induced using a tourniquet. Muscle tissue histopathologies were evaluated by light microscopy. Furthermore, oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarkers such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrotyrosine (3-NT), nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) as an inflammatory marker in tissue samples were measured. UD treatment significantly decreased oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarker levels and MPO (p<0.05). We established that UD treatment could alleviate muscle injury induced by muscle I/R in rats by inhibiting the inflammation and oxidative/nitrosative stress

IInvestigation of possible oxidative damage caused by formaldehyde exposure in the rat's heart and aorta tissue / Investigación de posible daño oxidativo causado por la exposición al formaldehído en el corazón de la rata y tejido de la aorta

SUMMARY: Formaldehyde (FA) is a toxic substance used frequently in the field of medicine as well as in many industrial areas. Especially people working in the field of anatomy, histology, and pathology are in high risk group because of the use of the FA. Studies showing the effects of FA on the cardiovascular system are few in number. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of FA exposure, which we believe can cause oxidative stress, on the heart and aorta with various biochemical analyses. A total of 24 Wistar Albino rats were used in our study. We divided the rats into 3 groups as the Control Group (CG), the group exposed to low-dose FA (avg. 1 ppm) (DDG) Group, and the group exposed to high-dose FA (avg. 10 ppm) (YDG). At the end of the subchronic FA exposure, the blood samples, heart and aorta tissues of the rats were taken and subjected to biochemical analyses. As a result of the analyses, statistically significant differences were detected between CG (2.96?0.85 ng/mg), and HDG (2.08?0.77 ng/mg) in aortic tissues in TXNIP analysis (p<0.05). In heart tissues, significant differences were detected between CG (0.73?0.27 ng/mg) and LDG (1.13?0.22 ng/mg) (p<0.05). Statistically significant differences were also detected between CG (1.98?0.31 mM/ml) and YDG (2.43?0.31 mM/ml) in serum MDA analyses (p<0.05). It was shown that subchronic application of FA to LDG rats through inhalation had no effects on apoptosis markers in heart tissues. More studies are required to show FA toxicity and the mechanism of action of pathology on the cardiovascular system. We believe that our study will contribute to clarifying the roles of mild and subchronic exposure of FA in heart and aortic tissues in terms of oxidative stress risk.

RESUMEN: El formaldehído es una sustancia tóxica que se utiliza con frecuencia en el campo de la medicina, así como en muchas áreas industriales. Especialmente las personas que trabajan en el area de la anatomía, y patología se encuentran en el grupo de alto riesgo debido al uso de esta sustancia. Pocos son los estudios que muestran los efectos del formaldehído en el sistema cardiovascular. El propósito del presente estudio fue investigar a través de análisis bioquímicos, los efectos de la exposición a formaldehído, que podría causar estrés oxidativo, en el corazón y la aorta. Se utilizaron un total de 24 ratas Albinas Wistar. Dividimos a las ratas en 3 grupos: grupo control (GC), grupo expuesto a dosis bajas de AG (promedio 1 ppm) (DDG) y grupo expuesto a dosis altas de AG (promedio 10 ppm) (YDG). Al término de la exposición a FA subcrónica, se tomaron muestras de sangre, tejido cardíaco y aorta de las ratas y se sometieron a análisis bioquímicos. Como resultado de los análisis, se detec- taron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre GC (2,96 ? 0,85 ng / mg) y HDG (2,08 ? 0,77 ng / mg) en los tejidos aórticos en el análisis TXNIP (p <0,05). En los tejidos cardíacos se detectaron diferencias significativas entre GC (0,73 ? 0,27 ng / mg) y LDG (1,13 ? 0,22 ng / mg) (p <0,05). También se detectaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre CG (1,98 ? 0,31 mM / ml) y YDG (2,43 ? 0,31 mM / ml) en los análisis de MDA en suero (p <0,05). Se demostró que la aplicación subcrónica de formaldehído a ratas LDG a través de la inhalación no tuvo efectos sobre los marcadores de apoptosis en los tejidos del corazón. Se requieren más estudios para demostrar la toxicidad de los AG y el mecanismo de acción de la patología en el sistema cardiovascular. Creemos que nuestro estudio contribuirá a aclarar las funciones de la exposición leve y subcrónica de formaldehído en los tejidos cardíacos y aórticos en términos de riesgo al estrés oxidativo.

Suppression of L-arginine-induced acute necrotizing pancreatitis in rats by metformin associated with the inhibition of myeloperoxidase and activation of interleukin-10 / Supresión de la pancreatitis necrotizante aguda inducida por L-arginina en ratas por metformina asociada con la inhibición de mieloperoxidasa y activación de interleucina-10

SUMMARY: Acute pancreatitis is a frequent life-threatening inflammatory disease of the pancreas characterized by severe abdominal pain that lasts for days to weeks. We sought to determine whether the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory drug, metformin can substantially protect against acute pancreatitis in an animal model of L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis, and whether this is associated with the augmentation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) and inhibition of the enzyme that promotes tissue damage, myeloperoxidase (MPO). Rats were either injected with two doses of the amino acid L-arginine (2.5 gm/kg; i.p., at one-hour intervals) before being sacrificed after 48 hours (model group) or were pretreated with metformin (50 mg/kg) daily for two weeks prior to L- arginine injections and continued receiving metformin until the end of the experiment (protective group). Using microscopic examination of the pancreas and blood chemistry, we observed that L-arginine induced acute pancreatic injury. This is demonstrated by an enlarged pancreas with patchy areas of haemorrhage, vacuolated cytoplasm and pyknotic nuclei in the acini, disorganized lobular architecture with infiltration of inflammatory cells within the interlobular connective tissue (CT) septa, and the presence of congested blood vessels that were substantially ameliorated by metformin. Metformin also significantly (p<0.05) inhibited L-arginine-induced MPO, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and the inflammatory biomarker tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Whereas, metformin significantly (p<0.05) increased IL-10 levels that were inhibited by pancreatitis induction. We further demonstrated a significant (p<0.001) correlation between the scoring of the degree of pancreatic lobules damage tissue damage and the blood levels of TNF-α, IL-10, LDH, and MPO. Thus, metformin effectively protects against L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis, which is associated with the inhibition of MPO and augmentation of IL-10.

RESUMEN: La pancreatitis aguda es una enfermedad inflamatoria del páncreas que amenaza la vida y se caracteriza por un dolor abdominal intenso que dura de días a semanas. Buscamos determinar si la metformina, fármaco antidiabético y antiinflamatorio, puede proteger contra la pancreatitis aguda en un modelo animal de pancreatitis aguda inducida por L-arginina. Además se estudió la asociación con el aumento de la citocina antiinflamatoria interleucina-10. (IL-10) e inhibición de la enzima que promueve el daño tisular, mieloperoxidasa (MPO). Las ratas se inyectaron con dos dosis del aminoácido L-arginina (2,5 g / kg; ip, a intervalos de una hora) antes de ser sacrificadas des- pués de 48 horas (grupo modelo) o se pre trataron con metformina (50 mg / kg) durante dos semanas antes del tratamiento de L- arginina y continuaron recibiendo metformina hasta el final del experimento (grupo protector). Mediante el examen microscópico del páncreas y la química sanguínea, se observó que la L- arginina inducía una lesión pancreática aguda. Se observó un aumento significativo de tamaño del páncreas con áreas hemorrágicas, citoplasma vacuolado y núcleos picnóticos en los acinos, arquitectura desorganizada con infiltración de células inflamatorias dentro de los tabiques del tejido conjuntivo interlobulillar (TC) y la presencia de vasos sanguíneos congestionados mejorados por metformina. Se observó que la metformina inhibió significativamente (p <0,05) la MPO inducida por L- arginina, la lactato deshidrogenasa (LDH) y el factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-α). Además, demostramos una correlación significativa (p <0,001) entre la puntuación del grado de daño tisular de los lóbulos pancreáticos y los niveles sanguíneos de TNF-α, IL-10, LDH y MPO. Por tanto, la metformina protege eficazmente contra la pancreatitis aguda inducida por L-arginina, que se asocia con la inhibición de MPO y el aumento de IL-10.

Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases-8 and Myeloperoxidase in Pulp Tissue after Pulpotomy with Calcium Silicate Cements

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the pulp tissue of rat molars after pulpotomies with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), BiodentineTM (BDT) and calcium hydroxide (CH) mixed with sterile saline solution (24 hours, 72 hours, 7 days and 15 days), through correlating MPO activity with active neutrophils and MMP8 activity with tissue remodeling. Material and Methods: Thirty-eight Wistar rats were randomly distributed into groups (control, I (MTA gray), II (BDT), and III (CH)) and subdivided according to the study period of 24 hours, 72 hours, 7 days or 15 days after pulpotomy. MMP8 activity was assessed through fluorescence technique, and MPO activity was determined using the MPO assay. Results: A gradual decrease of MPO and MM8 activity occurred in the group MTA over the experimental periods (p<0.05). Groups BDT and CH exhibited an increase in the activity at 7 and 15 days (p<0.05). Conclusion: MTA demonstrated a decrease in the values of MPO e MMP8. BDT and CH showed high neutrophilic and collagenase activity over the experimental periods.

Protective effect of dexmedetomidine on perioperative myocardial injury in patients with Stanford type-A aortic dissection

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect and mechanism of dexmedetomidine (Dex) on perioperative myocardial injury in patients with Stanford type-A aortic dissection (AD). METHODS: Eighty-six patients with Stanford type-A AD were randomly divided into Dex and control groups, with 43 cases in each group. During the surgery, the control group received the routine anesthesia, and the Dex group received Dex treatment based on routine anesthesia. The heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded before Dex loading (t0), 10 min after Dex loading (t1), at the skin incision (t2), sternum sawing (t3), before cardiopulmonary bypass (t4), at the extubation (t5), and at end of surgery (t6). The blood indexes were determined before anesthesia induction (T0) and postoperatively after 12h (T1), 24h (T2), 48h (T3), and 72h (T4). RESULTS: At t2 and t3, the HR and MAP in the Dex group were lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, in the Dex group at T1, T2, and T3, the serum creatine kinase-MB, cardiac troponin-I, C-reactive protein, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were decreased, and the interleukin-10 level, the serum total superoxide dismutase, and total anti-oxidant capability increased, while the myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde levels decreased (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Dex treatment may alleviate perioperative myocardial injury in patients with Stanford type-A AD by resisting inflammatory response and oxidative stress.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Investigar o efeito protetor e o mecanismo da dexmedetomidina (Dex) na lesão perioperativa do miocárdio em doentes com dissecação aórtica Tipo A de Stanford (AD). MÉTODOS: Oitenta e seis pacientes com o Tipo A de Stanford foram aleatoriamente divididos em Dex e grupos de controle, 43 casos em cada grupo. Durante a cirurgia, o grupo de controle recebeu a anestesia de rotina, e o grupo Dex recebeu tratamento Dex baseado na anestesia de rotina. A frequência cardíaca (AR) e a pressão arterial média (MAP) foram registradas no momento anterior ao Dex carregar (t0), 10 minutos após o Dex carregar (t1), incisão cutânea (t2), serragem de esterno (t3), antes do bypass cardiopulmonar (t4), extubação (t5) e fim da cirurgia (t6). Os índices de sangue foram determinados no momento antes da indução da anestesia (T0) e no pós-operatório 12 horas (T1), 24 horas (T2), 48 horas (T3) e 72 horas (T4). RESULTADOS: Em T2 e t3, o RH e o MAP do grupo Dex foram inferiores ao grupo de controle (p<0,05). Em comparação com o grupo de controle, no grupo Dex em T1, T2 e T3, os níveis séricos de creatina quinase-MB, troponina-I, proteína C-reativa e necrose do fator-α do tumor diminuíram, o nível interleucina-10 aumentou, o desalinhamento total do superóxido sérico e a capacidade antioxidante total aumentaram e os níveis de mielopeperóxido e malondialdeído diminuíram (todos p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento com Dex pode aliviar a lesão do miocárdio perioperativo em doentes com o Tipo A de Stanford por resistência à resposta inflamatória e ao estresse oxidativo.

Comportamiento clínico y factores asociados a mortalidad temprana en una cohorte de pacientes chilenos con vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anti citoplasma de neutrófilos (VAA) / Variables associated with mortality in 103 patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies associated vasculitis

Background: Cumulative survival in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) associated vasculitis (VAA) is 88 and 78% at 1 and 5 years, respectively. Despite this, mortality continues to be 2.7 times higher than the general population. Differences in the clinical profile of VAA in different ethnicities have been observed. Aim: To identify factors at the time of diagnosis, associated with mortality at one year of follow-up and to describe the clinical characteristics of these patients. Material and Methods: We identified in local databases and reviewed clinical records of patients with VAA with at least one year of follow up in a clinical hospital. Demographic and laboratory parameters and clinical activity scores were analyzed. Results: Of 103 patients with VAA identified, 65 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Their age ranged from 45 to 63 years and 56% were women. Thirty-five patients (54%) were diagnosed as granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) and 30 patients (46%) with Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA). The frequency of renal disease was 53% and pulmonary involvement occurred in 72%. At one year of follow-up 11 patients died resulting in a mortality of 17%. Seven patients died within three months after diagnosis. MPO ANCA were more common than PR3 ANCA. In the multivariate analysis, the presence of ophthalmological involvement, lung kidney syndrome and a Five Factor Score (FFS) of 1 or more were independent factors associated with mortality at one year. Conclusions: In these patients, pulmonary manifestations predominate. Lung kidney syndrome, ophthalmological involvement and a FFS score ≥ 1 were associated with mortality.

Structural-functional analyses of textile dye degrading azoreductase, laccase and peroxidase: a comparative in silico study

Background: Textile industry not only plays a vital role in our daily life but also a prominent factor in improving global economy. One of the environmental concern is it releases huge quantities of toxic dyes in the water leading to severe environmental pollution. Bacterial laccase and azoreductase successfully oxidize complex chemical structure of nitrogen group-containing azo dyes. Additionally, the presence of textile dye infuriates bacterial peroxidase to act as a dye degrading enzyme. Our present study deals with three textile dye degrading enzymes laccase, azoreductase, and peroxidase through analyzing their structural and functional properties using standard computational tools. Result: According to the comparative analysis of physicochemical characteristics, it was clear that laccase was mostly made up of basic amino acids whereas azoreductase and peroxidase both comprised of acidic amino acids. Higher aliphatic index ascertained the thermostability of all these three enzymes. Negative GRAVY value of the enzymes confirmed better water interaction of the enzymes. Instability index depicted that compared to laccase and preoxidase, azoreductase was more stable in nature. It was also observed that the three model proteins had more than 90% of total amino acids in the favored region of Ramachandran plot. Functional analysis revealed laccase as multicopper oxidase type enzyme and azoreductase as FMN dependent enzyme, while peroxidase consisted of α-ß barrel with additional haem group. Conclusion: Present study aims to provide knowledge on industrial dye degrading enzymes, choosing the suitable enzyme for industrial set up and to help in understanding the experimental laboratory requirements as well.

Effects of bradykinin preconditioning in an experimental intestinal ischemia reperfusion model on rats

Abstract Purpose To investigate the effects of bradykinin on reperfusion injury in an experimental intestinal ischemia reperfusion model. Methods We used 32 Wistar-Albino rats. We composed 4 groups each containing 8 rats. Rats in sham group were sacrified at 100 minutes observation after laparotomy. Thirty minutes reperfusion was performed following 50 minutes ischaemia in control group after observing 20 minutes. Ischaemic preconditioning was performed in one group of the study. We performed the other study group pharmacologic preconditioning by infusional administration of 10 μg/kg/minute bradykinin intravenously. We sacrified all of the rats by taking blood samples to evaluate the lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) after resection of jejunum for detecting tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Results Lactate and LDH levels were significantly higher in control and study groups than the sham group (P<0.001). There is no difference between the study groups statistically. (P>0.05). The results were the same for MPO levels. Although definitive cell damage was determinated in the control group by hystopatological evaluation, the damage in the study groups observed was lower in different levels. However, there was no significant difference between the study groups statistically (P>0.05). Conclusion Either ischeamic preconditioning or pharmacologic preconditioning made by bradykinin reduced the ischemia reperfusion injury at jejunum.

Biotic and abiotic resistance inducers for controlling white rust in rocket (Eruca sativa) / Indutores de resistência bióticos e abióticos para controle de ferrugem branca em rúcula (Eruca sativa)

Induced resistance emerges as an alternative method for controlling plant diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of biotic and abiotic resistance inducers for controlling white rust in rocket (Eruca sativa), as well as biochemical changes (peroxidase) and fitness costs. The experiments were developed with the abiotic inducers acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) (12.5, 25, and 50 mg ai L-1) and citrus biomass (CB) (0.1, 0.25, and 0.5%), as well as with the biotic ones Saccharomyces cerevisiae (25 mg mL-1), Bacillus thuringiensis (25 mg p.c. mL-1), Saccharomyces boulardii (25 mg mL-1), and phosphorylated mannan oligosaccharide (PMO) (0.25%), in preventive and curative interventions. Fungicide mancozeb (1.6 g ai L-1), Bordeaux mixture (1%), and water were the control treatments. Leaf samples were collected 3, 7, 11, 15, and 19 days after the treatments to determine peroxidases and assess the severity and production. Concerning abiotic inducers, all doses of ASM and CB 0.5% (preventive) and CB 0.25% (curative) reduced the severity of white rust, whereas, among biotic inducers, only PMO applied preventively controlled the disease. Peroxidase activity was higher for CB 0.25% and ASM 50 mg L-1. Bordeaux mixture induced higher peroxidase activity.(AU)

A indução de resistência surge como um método alternativo para o controle de doenças em plantas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de indutores de resistência bióticos e abióticos no controle de ferrugem branca em rúcula (Eruca sativa), bem como alterações bioquímicas (peroxidase) e o impacto na produção. Foram desenvolvidos experimentos com os indutores abióticos acibenzolar-S-metil (ASM) (12,5; 25 e 50 mg i.a. L-1) e biomassa cítrica (BC) (0,1; 0,25 e 0,5%), e os bióticos Saccharomyces cerevisiae (25 mg p.c. mL-1), Bacillus thuringiensis (25 mg p.c. mL-1), Saccharomyces boulardii (25 mg p.c. mL-1) e manano-oligossacarídeo fosforilado (MOF) (0,25%), sendo aplicados preventiva e curativamente. Como controles foram utilizados o fungicida mancozeb (1,6 g i.a. L-1), calda bordalesa (1%) e água. Amostras de folhas foram coletadas aos 3, 7, 11, 15 e 19 dias após os tratamentos para a determinação de peroxidases, e avaliações de severidade e produção. Entre os indutores abióticos, todas as doses de ASM e BC 0,5% (preventivamente) e BC 0,25% (curativamente) reduziram a severidade da ferrugem branca, enquanto entre os indutores bióticos, apenas o MOF aplicado preventivamente, controlou a doença. A atividade de peroxidase foi superior para BC 0,25% e ASM 50 mg L-1. O tratamento com calda bordalesa também incrementou a atividade de peroxidase.(AU)

Picroside II attenuates ischemia/reperfusion testicular injury by alleviating oxidative stress and apoptosis through reducing nitric oxide synthesis

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effect of Picroside II on testicular ischemia and reperfusion (l/R) injury and the underlying mechanism. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: sham operated group (Sham), Sham with Picroside II treatment group (Sham+ Pic II), l/R group (l/R) and l/R with Picroside II treatment group (I/R+ Pic II). l/R model was established by rotating the left testis 720° in a clock-wise direction for 4 hours. The histopathologic and spermatogenetic evaluation was performed. The apoptosis changes and the levels of HO-1 (heme oxygenase-1), MPO (myeloperoxidase), NOX (NADPH oxidase), SOD (superoxide dismutase), XO (xanthine oxidase) and NOS (nitric oxide synthase) were measured. Results: The seminiferous tubules were damaged in l/R rats, but Picroside II alleviated the changes induced by l/R. The increased level of apoptosis was decreased by Picroside II (P=0.01, 9.05±0.35 vs. 4.85±0.25). The activities of HO-1, MPO, NOX, XO and MDA content were increased and the SOD activity was decreased in l/R (P<0.05) and could be reversed by Picroside II (P=0.03, 405.5±7.5 vs. 304±17U/mgprot; P=0.02, 0.99±0.05 vs. 0.52±0.04 mgprot; P=0.01, 260+7 vs. 189±2 mgprot; P=0.04, 10.95+0.55 vs. 8.75+0.35 U/mgprot; P=0.045, 6.8+0.7 vs. 3.75+0.35 mgprot; P=0.04, 44.5+3.5 vs. 57.5+3.5 mgprot). Western blot showed that the expression of iNOS, nNOS and eNOS were increased in l/R (P<0.05); however, they were decreased after Picroside II treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion: Picroside II attenuated testicular I/R injury in rats mainly through suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress through reduction of nitric oxide synthesis.

Biochemical changes in cultivars of sweet oranges infected with citrus tristeza virus / Mudanças bioquímicas em vários cultivares de laranjas doces infectadas com o vírus citrus tristeza

Abstract Citrus fruit production occupies a place of considerable importance in the economy of the world including Pakistan. Tristeza disease caused by Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV) exists in various forms that may or may not cause symptoms in the plants. The bioactive compounds and antioxidants are naturally present in plants and provide a defense mechanism that is generally accelerated in response to a stress. The objective of the present study was to target and analyze the citrus plants that were CTV positive to observe the changes in the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants of citrus (Sweet Oranges only). It was observed that in response to CTV infection, both the non-enzymatic antioxidants (total flavonoid, ascorbic acid, phenolic acid) and enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase) activities showed an increasing trend overall. The profiling of antioxidants in response to a viral infection may help in the discovery of new biomarkers that can be used as a monitoring tool in disease management.

Resumo As frutas cítricas ocupam um lugar de considerável importância na economia do Paquistão, assim como o resto do mundo. A doença da tristeza causada pelo Vírus da Tristeza dos Citros (CTV) existe em várias formas que podem ou não apresentar sintomas nas plantas. Os compostos bioativos e antioxidantes estão naturalmente presentes nas plantas e fornecem um mecanismo de defesa que é geralmente acelerado em resposta a um estresse. O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar as alterações causadas pelo CTV nos antioxidantes enzimáticos e não enzimáticos de laranjas doces. Foi observado que, em resposta ao ataque de CTV, os antioxidantes não enzimáticos como flavonoides totais, ácido ascórbico, ácido fenólico e antioxidantes enzimáticos, como as atividades de catalase, superóxido dismutase e peroxidase, geralmente mostram uma tendência crescente. O perfil de antioxidantes em resposta a um ataque viral pode ajudar na descoberta de novos biomarcadores que podem ser usados ​​como uma ferramenta de monitoramento no gerenciamento de doenças.

Effects of anti-TNF-α in experimental diversion colitis

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effects of infliximab on the inflammation of the colonic mucosa devoid from fecal stream. Methods: Twenty-four rats were submitted to a Hartmann's procedure. They remained for 12 weeks with the fecal derivation to development of diversion colitis on excluded colorectal stump. After this period, they were divided into 3 groups: one group received intervention with saline (2.0 mL / week), other group infliximab at doses of 5 mg/kg/week and the other 10 mg/kg/week for five consecutively weeks. Concluded the intervention period, the animals were euthanized to remove colon segments with and without fecal stream. Colitis was diagnosed by histological analysis and the degree of inflammation by validated score. The neutrophilic infiltrate was evaluated by tissue expression of myeloperoxidase identified by immunohistochemical. The tissue content of myeloperoxidase was measured by computer-assisted image analysis. Results: The inflammatory score was high in colonic segments without fecal stream. The intervention with infliximab reduced the inflammatory score in excluded colonic segments. The content of myeloperoxidase was reduced in colonic segments of animals treated with infliximab mainly in high concentrations. Conclusion: Intervention with infliximab reduced the inflammation and the neutrophil infiltrate in colonic segments devoid of the fecal stream.

Pesquisa de fosfatase alcalina e peroxidase em leites pasteurizados no Estado de Sergipe / Research of peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase in pasteurized milk in the State of Sergipe

O leite é um alimento considerado altamente perecível, devido a sua composição de nutrientes, favorecendo assim, a multiplicação microbiana. Quando armazenado e produzido em condições inadequadas, representam um grande risco à saúde do consumidor. Desta forma, se faz necessário que o leite seja tratado termicamente. Diante disto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a pasteurização de leites com selo de inspeção produzidos no estado de Sergipe através da pesquisa das enzimas fosfatase alcalina e peroxidase. Foram coletadas 10 amostras de leite pasteurizado, optando-se por fabricantes devidamente registrados ao Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF) ou Serviço de Inspeção Estadual (SIE) produzidos no estado de Sergipe. Os resultados obtidos nas amostras do leite pasteurizado demonstraram perfil enzimático satisfatório, ou seja, foi constatada a inativação da fosfatase alcalina, e a atividade da peroxidase, indicando assim que o leite foi corretamente pasteurizado.

The anticonvulsant effects of Ducrosia anethifolia (Boiss) essential oil are produced by its main component alpha-pinene in rats / Os efeitos anticonvulsivantes do óleo essencial de Ducrosia anethifolia (Boiss) são realizados pelo seu principal componente alfa-pineno em ratos

ABSTRACT Ducrosia anethifolia has been recommended as a remedy for neurological disorders. However, the anticonvulsant effects of D. anethifolia essential oil (DAEO) and its major constituent α-pinene have not yet been clarified. Methods: A rat model of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced convulsions was used. Oxidant and antioxidant parameters were assayed in the temporal lobe. Results: The data showed that DAEO (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) and α-pinene (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg i.p.) delayed the initiation time, and reduced the duration of myoclonic and tonic-clonic seizures following PTZ injection. The PTZ produced oxidative stress so that malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels were increased and catalase and peroxidase activity decreased. Pretreatment with DAEO and α-pinene significantly inhibited the above-mentioned enzymatic changes in PTZ-treated animals. Conclusion: The results suggest that α-pinene, at teast in part, was responsible for the induction of the anticonvulsant and antioxidant effects of DAEO in rats.

RESUMO A Ducrosia anethifolia tem sido recomendada como remédio para os distúrbios neurológicos. No entanto, os efeitos anticonvulsivantes do óleo essencial de Ducrosia anethifolia (DAEO) e do seu principal constituinte atfa-pineno (α-pineno) ainda não foram clarificados. Métodos: Foi utilizado um modelo de rato de convulsões induzidas por pentilenotetrazol (PTZ). Os parâmetros oxidante e antioxidante foram ensaiados no lobo temporal do cérebro. Resultados: Os dados mostraram que DAEO (50, 100 e 200 mg / kg, i.p.) e α-pineno (0,2 e 0,4 mg / kg i.p.) retardaram o tempo de iniciação e reduziram a duração das crises mioclônicas e tônico-clônicas após a injeção de PTZ. O PTZ produziu estresse oxidativo, de modo que os níveis de malondialdeído (MDA) e de peróxido de hidrogênio aumentaram e a atividade da catalase e da peroxidase diminuiu. O pré-tratamento com DAEO e α-pineno inibiu significativamente as alterações enzimáticas mencionadas em animais tratados com PTZ. Conclusão: O resultado sugere que α-pineno, peto menos em parte, é responsável peta indução dos efeitos anticonvulsivantes e antioxidantes da DAEO em ratos.

Effect of sevoflurane pretreatment in relieving liver ischemia/reperfusion-induced pulmonary and hepatic injury

Abstract Purpose To investigate the effect of sevoflurane preconditioning on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced pulmonary/hepatic injury Methods Fifty-one Wistar rats were randomly grouped into sham, I/R, and sevoflurane groups. After reperfusion, the structural change of the lung was measured by Smith score, the wet and dry weights (W/D) were determined, malondialdehyde (MDA) myeloperoxidase (MPO) content was determined colorimetrically and by fluorescence, respectively, and matrix metalloprotein-9 (MMP-9) mRNA was quantified by RT-PCR. Biopsy and morphological analyses were performed on liver tissue, activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were determined, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level was determined. Results The sham group showed no changes in tissue structure. Structural lesions in the sevoflurane and I/R groups were mild and severe, respectively. Smith score, W/D, MDA, MPO, and MMP mRNA showed the same trend, and were increased in the I/R group and recovered in the sevoflurane group, compared with the sham group (both P<0.05). AST and ALT were significantly increased compared to the sham group (AST: 655±52.06 vs . 29±9.30 U/L; ALT: 693±75.56 vs . 37±6.71 U/L; P<0.05). In the sevoflurane group, AST and ALT levels were significantly decreased (464±47.71 and 516±78.84 U/L; P<0.001). TNF-α presented similar results. Conclusion The protection of lung and liver by sevoflurane may be mediated by inhibited leukocyte recruitment and MMP-9 secretion.

Increased whitening efficacy and reduced cytotoxicity are achieved by the chemical activation of a highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel

Abstract Objective This study was designed for the chemical activation of a 35% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) bleaching gel to increase its whitening effectiveness and reduce its toxicity. Methodology First, the bleaching gel - associated or not with ferrous sulfate (FS), manganese chloride (MC), peroxidase (PR), or catalase (CT) - was applied (3x 15 min) to enamel/dentin discs adapted to artificial pulp chambers. Then, odontoblast-like MDPC-23 cells were exposed for 1 h to the extracts (culture medium + components released from the product), for the assessment of viability (MTT assay) and oxidative stress (H2DCFDA). Residual H2O2 and bleaching effectiveness (DE) were also evaluated. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA complemented with Tukey's test (n=8. p<0.05). Results All chemically activated groups minimized MDPC-23 oxidative stress generation; however, significantly higher cell viability was detected for MC, PR, and CT than for plain 35% H2O2 gel. Nevertheless, FS, MC, PR, and CT reduced the amount of residual H2O2 and increased bleaching effectiveness. Conclusion Chemical activation of 35% H2O2 gel with MC, PR, and CT minimized residual H2O2 and pulp cell toxicity; but PR duplicated the whitening potential of the bleaching gel after a single 45-minute session.

Gliclazide reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss in an experimental periodontal disease model

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of gliclazide on oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss in an experimental periodontal disease model. Material and Methods Male albino Wistar rats were divided into no ligature, ligature, and ligature with 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg gliclazide groups. Maxillae were fixed and scanned using micro-computed tomography to quantify linear and bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) and volumetric bone loss. Histopathological, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses were conducted to examine matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), cathepsin K, members of the receptor activator of the nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β (RANK), osteoprotegerin (OPG) pathway, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1), glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1), NFKB p 50 (Cytoplasm), NFKB p50 NLS (nuclear localization signal), PI3 kinase and AKT staining. Myeloperoxidase activity, malondialdehyde and glutathione levels, while interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were evaluated by spectroscopic ultraviolet-visible analysis. A quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the gene expression of the nuclear factor kappa B p50 subunit (NF-κB p50), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3k), protein kinase B (AKT), and F4/80. Results Micro-computed tomography showed that the 1 mg/kg gliclazide treatment reduced linear bone loss compared to the ligature, 5 mg/kg gliclazide, and 10 mg/kg gliclazide treatments. All concentrations of gliclazide increased bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) compared to the ligature group. Treatment with 1 mg/kg gliclazide reduced myeloperoxidase activity, malondialdehyde, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels (p≤0.05), and resulted in weak staining for COX-2, cathepsin k, MMP-2, RANK, RANKL, SOD-1, GPx-1,MIF and PI3k. In addition, down-regulation of NF-κB p50, PI3k, AKT, and F4/80 were observed, and OPG staining was strong after the 1 mg/kg gliclazide treatment. Conclusions This treatment decreased neutrophil and macrophage migration, decreased the inflammatory response, and decreased bone loss in rats with ligature-induced periodontitis.

Evaluating clinical and laboratory effects of ozone in non-surgical periodontal treatment: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective: This study aims to evaluate the clinical and biochemical (oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators) effects of the gaseous ozone use accompanied by scaling and root planning (SRP) in periodontal treatment. Material and Methods: The study population consisted of 40 patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) randomly sorted into two groups of 20. The experimental group received SRP plus 3 watts gaseous ozone in two separate applications five days apart, whereas the control group received SRP plus placebo. Clinical periodontal parameters were assayed and saliva samples were taken before the initial and one month after the second treatment. Periodontal examination assessed plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth, and clinical attachment level (CAL). Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), nitric oxide (NO), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), myeloperoxidase (MPO), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) levels were evaluated from saliva samples. Results: Changes following treatment in PI, GI, probing depth, and CAL scores were similar for both groups (p>0.05). Of note, TGF-β levels were observed to be higher in the treatment group than in controls (p<0.05). Changes in 8-OHdG, TAS, TOS, NO, MPO, GSH and MDA levels, however, were not significantly different between groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that SRP plus gaseous ozone versus SRP alone does not correlate to a significant improvement in periodontal recovery.

Immunoexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor, beta-cell lymphoma 2 and cluster of differentiation 68 in cerebellar tissue of rats treated with Ganoderma lucidum / Inmunoexpresión del factor de crecimiento endotelial vascular, linfoma de células beta 2 y grupo de diferenciación 68 en tejido cerebeloso de ratas tratadas con Ganoderma lucidum

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can potentially lead to hemorrhages in all areas of the skull, which can damage cells and nerve connections. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPS) as a antioxidant on cerebellar cell tissues after traumatic brain injury in rats. Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to TBI with a weight-drop device using 300 g1m weight-height impact. The groups are consisted of control, trauma, and trauma+Ganoderma lucidum groups. At seven days post-brain injury, experimental rats were decapitated after intraperitoneal administration of ketamine HCL (0.15 ml/100 g body weight). Cereballar samples were taken for histological examination or determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Significant improvement was observed in cells and vascular structures of Ganoderma lucidum treated groups when compared to untreated groups. It is believed that Ganoderma lucidum may have an effect on the progression of traumatic brain injury. Ganoderma lucidum application may affect angiogenetic development in blood vessel endothelial cells, decrease inflammatory cell accumulation by affecting cytokine mechanism and may create apoptotic nerve cells and neuroprotective mechanism in glial cells.

La lesión cerebral traumática (LCT) puede provocar hemorragias en todas las áreas del cráneo, lo que puede dañar las células y las conexiones nerviosas. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos protectores de los polisacáridos de Ganoderma lucidum (GLPS) como antioxidante en los tejidos de las células del cerebelo después de la lesión cerebral traumática en ratas. Ratas Sprague Dawley fueron sometidas a TBI con un dispositivo de caída de peso usando un impacto de peso de 300 g-1 m. Se formaron los siguientes grupos: control, trauma y trauma + Ganoderma lucidum. Siete días después de la lesión cerebral, las ratas experimentales fueron decapitadas después de la administración intraperitoneal de ketamina HCL (0,15 ml / 100 g de peso corporal). Se tomaron muestras cerebrales para el examen histológico y para la determinación de niveles de malondialdehído (MDA) y glutatión (GSH) y actividad de mieloperoxidasa (MPO). Se observó una mejora significativa en las células y las estructuras vasculares de los grupos tratados con Ganoderma lucidum en comparación con los grupos no tratados. Durante el estudio se observó que Ganoderma lucidum puede tener un efecto sobre la progresión de la lesión cerebral traumática. La aplicación de Ganoderma lucidum puede afectar el desarrollo angiogénico en las células endoteliales de los vasos sanguíneos, disminuir la acumulación de células inflamatorias al afectar el mecanismo de las citocinas y puede crear células nerviosas apoptóticas y un mecanismo neuroprotector en las células gliales.