Probiotics from kefir: Evaluating their immunostimulant and antioxidant potential in the carpet shell clam (Ruditapesdecussatus).

This study aimed to investigate the impact of incorporating kefir into the diet on biometric parameters, as well as the immune and antioxidant responses of the carpet shell clam (Ruditapes decussatus) after an experimental infection by Vibrio alginolyticus. Clams were divided into a control group and a treated group. The control group was fed on spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) alone. While, the treated group was fed on spirulina supplemented with 10% dried kefir. After 21 days, clams were immersed in a suspension of V. alginolyticus 5 × 105 CFU mL -1 for 30 min. Seven days after experimental infection, survival was 100% in both groups. The obtained results showed a slight increase in weight and condition index in clams fed with kefir-supplemented diet for 21 days compared to control clams. Regarding antioxidant responses, the treated group showed higher superoxide dismutase activity compared to the control group. However, the malondialdehyde level was lower in the treated clams than in the control. In terms of immune parameters, the treated group showed slightly elevated activities of phenoloxidase, lysozyme and alkaline phosphatase, whereas a decreased lectin activity was observed compared to the control group. The obtained results suggest that kefir enhanced both the antioxidant and immune response of infected clams.

[Effects of Biochar on Growth and Pollutant Accumulation of Lettuce in Soil Co-contaminated with Tetracycline and Copper].

Through lettuce potting experiments, the effects of different types of biochar (apple branch, corn straw, and modified sorghum straw biochar with phosphoric acid modification) on lettuce growth under tetracycline (TC) and copper (Cu) co-pollution were investigated. The results showed that compared with those under CK, the addition of biochar treatment significantly increased the plant height, root length, shoot fresh weight, and root fresh weight of lettuce (P < 0.05). The addition of different biochars significantly increased the nitrate nitrogen, chlorophyll, and soluble protein content in lettuce physiological indicators to varying degrees, while also significantly decreasing the levels of malondialdehyde, proline content, and catalase activity. The effects of biochar on lettuce physiological indicators were consistent during both the seedling and mature stages. Compared with those in CK, the addition of biochar resulted in varying degrees of reduction in the TC and Cu contents of both the aboveground and underground parts of lettuce. The aboveground TC and Cu levels decreased by 2.49%-92.32% and 12.79%-36.47%, respectively. The underground TC and Cu levels decreased by 12.53%-55.64% and 22.41%-42.29%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that nitrate nitrogen, chlorophyll, and soluble protein content of lettuce were negatively correlated with TC content, whereas malondialdehyde, proline content, and catalase activity were positively correlated with TC content. The resistance genes of lettuce were positively correlated with TC content (P < 0.05). In general, modified biochar was found to be more effective in improving lettuce growth quality and reducing pollutant accumulation compared to unmodified biochar, with modified sorghum straw biochar showing the best remediation effect.

Efficacy of Agmatine Treatment in Experimental Acute Pancreatitis Rat Model.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Acute pancreatitis which is characterized by pancreatic inflammation can sometimes be difficult to treat because of limited therapeutic options. The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of agmatine in the acute pancreatitis experimental rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An acute pancreatitis model was created with the administration of cerulein in 40 female Sprague-Dawley rats. Agmatine was administered as a protective agent at 5 mg/kg (low dose) and 10 mg/kg (high dose). The rats were divided into 5 groups, each with 8 rats: group 1 (acute pancreatitis); group 2 (acute pancreatitis+low-dose agmatine 5 mg/kg); group 3 (acute pancreatitis+high-dose agmatine 10 mg/kg); group 4 (placebo, acute pancreatitis+saline); and group 5 (sham and saline infusion). All rats were sacrificed 24 hours after the last injection, and the levels of superoxide dismutase, interleukin-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were assessed in blood samples collected via cardiac puncture. Histopathological examination was performed by a pathologist, who was blind to the groups, according to the Schoenberg's pancreatitis scoring index. RESULTS: The amylase (16.67 and 37.89 U/L), glutathione peroxidase (13.62 and 18.44 ng/mL), tumor necrosis factor-α (39.68 and 64 ng/mL), interleukin-1 (484.73 and 561.83 pg/mL), and transforming growth factor-ß (110.52 and 126.34 ng/L) levels were significantly lower and superoxide dismutase (1.29 and 0.98 ng/L) and malondialdehyde (0.99 and 0.96 nmol/mL) levels were significantly higher in group 3 compared to group 1 (P < .05). Moreover glutathione peroxidase, tumor necrosis factor-α, and transforming growth factor-ß levels were lower, and malondialdehyde levels were higher in the group 3 compared to group 2 (P < .05). Although the Schoenberg's pancreatitis scoring index was not significantly different between the high- and low-dose treatment groups, rats who received high-dose treatment had significantly lower scores compared to those with acute pancreatitis group. CONCLUSION: This is the first study that evaluated the efficacy of agmatine in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis. Agmatine, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, had a protective effect in an experimental rat model of acute pancreatitis.

Influence of the BsmI polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor gene on the levels of vitamin D, inflammatory and oxidative stress profile in patients with cystic fibrosis supplemented with Colecalciferol megadose.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the influence of the BsmI polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor gene on vitamin D levels, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in patients with Cystic Fibrosis supplemented with cholecalciferol megadose. METHODS: We performed a single-arm, non-randomized pre- and post-study of 17 patients aged 5 to 20 years with cystic fibrosis diagnosed with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency 25-hydroxy vitamin< 30 ng/mL. Individuals were genotyped for the BsmI polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor gene and all received cholecalciferol supplementation of 4,000 IU daily for children aged 5 to 10 years and 10,000 IU for children over 10 years of age for 8 weeks. Interviews were conducted with personal data, sun exposure, anthropometric and blood samples of 25-hydroxy vitamin parathormone, serum calcium, ultrasensitive C-reactive protein, alpha 1 acid glycoprotein, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde and kidney and liver function. Inter- and intra-group assessment was assessed by paired t-test Anova test or its non-parametric counterparts. RESULTS: The individuals were mostly male and reported no adverse effects from the use of supplementation, 64 % had 25-hydroxy vitamin levels >30 ng/mL. Patients with BB and Bb genotypes showed increased serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin. The group with BB genotype showed a reduction in alpha 1 acid glycoprotein. And individuals with the bb genotype had high levels of malondialdehyde compared to the pre-intervention time. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that variations of the BsmI polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor gene have different responses in vitamin D levels and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Improvement of Na+-K+ ATPase Activity and Gene Expression Associated with Glomerular Ultrastructural Protection in Diabetic Nephropathy by Acacia senegal: Role of Oxidative Stress Disturbances / Mejora de la actividad Na+-K+ ATPasa y la Expresión Génica Asociada con la Protección Ultraestructural Glomerular en la Nefropatía Diabética por Acacia senegal: Papel de las Alteraciones del Estrés Oxidativo

SUMMARY: This study assessed the effects of Acacia Senegal (AS) combined with insulin on Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) activity and mRNA expression, serum glucose, renal function, and oxidative stress in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Sixty rats were equally divided into six groups: normal control, normal+AS, diabetic (DM), DM+insulin, DM+AS, and DM+insulin+AS groups. Diabetes mellitus (type 1) was induced by a single injection of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg), and insulin and AS treatments were carried until rats were culled at the end of week 12. Serum glucose and creatinine levels, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were measured. Renal homogenate levels of NKA activity and gene expression, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated as well as kidney tissue histology and ultrastructure. Diabetes caused glomerular damage and modulation of blood and tissue levels of creatinine, glucose, HbA1c, malondialdehyde, NKA activity and gene expression, SOD, catalase and GSH, which were significantly (p<0.05) treated with AS, insulin, and insulin plus AS. However, AS+insulin treatments were more effective. In conclusion, combined administration of AS with insulin to rats with DN decreased NKA activity and gene expression as well as oxidative stress, and improved glycemic state and renal structure and function.

Este estudio evaluó los efectos de Acacia senegal (AS) combinada con insulina sobre la actividad Na+/K+- ATPasa (NKA) y la expresión de ARNm, la glucosa sérica, la función renal y el estrés oxidativo en un modelo de nefropatía diabética (ND) en ratas. Sesenta ratas se dividieron equitativamente en seis grupos: control normal, normal+AS, diabética (DM), DM+insulina, DM+AS y DM+insulina+AS. La diabetes mellitus (tipo 1) se indujo mediante una única inyección de estreptozotocina (65 mg/kg), y los tratamientos con insulina y AS se llevaron a cabo hasta que las ratas fueron sacrificadas al final de la semana 12. Se midieron niveles séricos de glucosa y creatinina, hemoglobina A1c (HbA1c). Se evaluaron los niveles de homogeneizado renal de actividad NKA y expresión génica, malondialdehído, superóxido dismutasa (SOD), catalasa y glutatión reducido (GSH), así como la histología y ultraestructura del tejido renal. La diabetes causó daño glomerular y modulación de los niveles sanguíneos y tisulares de creatinina, glucosa, HbA1c, malondialdehído, actividad y expresión génica de NKA, SOD, catalasa y GSH, los cuales fueron tratados significativamente (p<0,05) con AS, insulina e insulina más AS. Sin embargo, los tratamientos con AS+insulina fueron más efectivos. En conclusión, la administración combinada de AS con insulina a ratas con DN disminuyó la actividad de NKA y la expresión genética, así como el estrés oxidativo, y mejoró el estado glucémico y la estructura y función renal.

Improving the quality properties of soybean oil by using rice bran oil.

This study aims to study the effect of substituting soybean oil (SO) with rice bran oil (RBO) at different levels (25%, 50%, and 75%) on the physical and chemical properties, fatty acid composition, and oxidative stability of SO, also, study the effect of storing SO, RBO, and their blend oils at ambient temperature for a period of 12 months on the content of free fatty acids (% FFA), peroxide value (PV), and thiobarbituric acid (TBA). RBO demonstrated good quality, as evidenced by its initial low values of % FFA, PV, and TBA. Furthermore, RBO was found to be an excellent source of γ-oryzanol, whereas the other oils lacked this compound. Consequently, increasing the proportion of RBO in SO resulted in the least degradation, while pure SO exhibited the highest degree of degradation. Moreover, the blend oils demonstrated an inhibitory effect against oxidation, allowing for a prolonged storage period without the use of industrial antioxidants. Throughout the entire storage period, the % FFA and PV of all tested blend oil samples remained within the limits recommended for human consumption. TBA exhibited a similar trend to PV. However, an incremental increase in TBA values was observed as the storage period of the oils extended. In SO, TBA levels increased from 0.533 mg malonaldehyde/kg oil at the beginning to 1.446 mg malonaldehyde/kg oil after 12 months of storage. In RBO, TBA levels increased from 0.336 mg malonaldehyde/kg oil at the beginning to 0.882 mg malonaldehyde/kg oil after 12 months of storage.

Photobiomodulation versus corticosteroid in the management of erosive oral lichen planus: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic illness of immune origin that is typically treated with corticosteroids as a gold standard therapy. Photobiomodulation (PBM) may represent an alternative remedy that has the potential to treat a variety of pathological conditions by alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing without the drawbacks of steroid therapies. Thus, the aim of the current study was to compare the effect of photobiomodulation to topical 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide on erosive oral lichen planus. METHODS: This randomized controlled clinical trial involved 44 patients complaining of erosive oral lichen planus. Patients were assigned to one of two groups: control group (n = 22) received 0.1% topical triamcinolone acetonide three times daily with miconazole oral gel once daily for 4 weeks, and photobiomodulation group (n = 22) received laser therapy by 980 nm diode laser utilizing output power 300 mW twice weekly for 5 weeks (a total of 10 sessions). The evaluation of patients was performed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks postoperatively in terms of pain, clinical scores, and biochemical evaluation of salivary malondialdehyde levels. All recorded data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney test to compare the two studied groups regarding pain, lesion size, and salivary levels of malondialdehyde. Friedman test, followed by post hoc test, was used for comparison of the data within the same group along the 3 periods at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. RESULTS: Both groups showed significant improvement in pain and clinical scores, with no statistical difference between them. Moreover, there was a significant improvement in salivary malondialdehyde levels for both groups, with no significant difference between them. CONCLUSIONS: Photobiomodulation could be a promising therapeutic modality for management of erosive oral lichen planus without the side effects of steroid therapy. The salivary malondialdehyde level could be used as a biomarker to evaluate the disease severity and its response to the treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05951361) (19/07/2023).

Selenium mitigates methotrexate-induced testicular injury: Insights from male NMRI mice model.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Chemotherapy, particularly with methotrexate (MTX), often elicits testicular toxicity, leading to impaired spermatogenesis and hormone imbalances. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of selenium (Se) against MTX-induced testicular injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male mice were divided into control, MTX, Se, and MTX + Se groups. Histopathological examination involved the preparation of testicular tissue sections using the Johnsen's tubular biopsy score (JTBS) for spermatogenesis evaluation. Biochemical tests included the assessment of testosterone, malondialdehyde (MDA), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to analyze the expression of caspase 3 (casp3), tumor protein 53 (p53), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax) genes. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < .05). RESULTS: Histopathological analysis revealed significant testicular damage in the MTX group, with decreased spermatogenesis and Leydig cell count, while Se administration mitigated these effects, preserving the structural integrity of the reproductive epithelium. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that MTX led to elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reduced testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, suggesting oxidative stress and Leydig cell dysfunction. Gene expression analysis indicated that MTX upregulated proapoptotic genes (casp3, p53, and bax) while downregulating the antiapoptotic Bcl2 gene. In contrast, Se treatment reversed these trends, highlighting its potential antiapoptotic properties. CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore the potential of Se as a therapeutic agent to mitigate the reproductive toxicity associated with MTX-induced testicular injury. Se exerts protective effects by regulating oxidative stress, preserving hormone balance, and modulating apoptotic pathways. These results suggest that Se supplementation could be a promising strategy to alleviate chemotherapy-induced testicular damage and preserve male fertility.

The potential prophylactic and therapeutic impacts of niacin on ischemia/reperfusion injury of testis.

INTRODUCTION: The testicular ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is characterized by the excessive aggregation of un-scavenged reactive oxygen species, leading to the heightened levels of oxidative stress. This phenomenon plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of testicular torsion damage. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to detect the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of niacin on testicular I/R injury. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty-four healthy adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated into three groups as follows: (1) sham group, (2) torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, and (3) treatment group which received 200 mg/kg niacin along with testicular T/D. Torsion/detorsion was induced by 2 h of torsion followed by 10 days of reperfusion period. In the treatment group, niacin was injected 30 min before the reperfusion period intraperitoneally and continued for 10 days by oral gavage. RESULTS: T/D was associated with marked decreases in terms of sperm count, viability, and kinematic parameters versus the sham group (P < 0.05), which niacin significantly reverted the kinematic parameters (P < 0.05). I/R injury caused a significant increase in the number of abnormal epididymal sperms compared to the sham group (P < 0.05). Niacin decreased the epididymal sperm abnormality significantly compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). Tissue abnormalities in T/D group, such as edema, hyperemia, inflammation, and necrosis were completely visible histopathologically, while the histological changes in the niacin-treated group were better than those in the T/D group. Regarding the pathological parametric evaluations, I/R injury significantly reduced the mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS), germinal epithelial cell thickness (GECT), and mean seminiferous tubular diameter (MSTD), and increased the tubular hypoplasia/atrophy (THA) compared to the sham group (P < 0.05), which niacin treatment significantly improved the MTBS and GECT compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). T/D significantly increased the oxidative stress index (OSI) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) (P < 0.05). Niacin significantly reduced the OSI and MDA levels compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). DISCUSSION: The current study found that niacin has preventive/therapeutic effects against the elevation of oxidative stress markers and depletion of antioxidants during I/R injury. Following administration of niacin, a reduction in histologic injury was observed in rats. In our study, we showed the antioxidant properties of niacin and its capacity to protect against I/R damage. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present investigation revealed that niacin, as an antioxidant agent, can suppress the oxidative stress induced by testicular I/R injury, and can be used as a supplementary agent in the treatment of those undergoing testicular torsion surgery.

In-vivo and in-silico studies to identify toxicity mechanisms of permethrin with the toxicity-reducing role of ginger.

In this study, the toxic effects of permethrin on Allium cepa L. and the protective role of Zingiber officinale rhizome extract (Zoex) were investigated. In this context, 6 different groups were formed. While the control group was treated with tap water, the groups II and III were treated with 10 µg/mL and 20 µg/mL Zoex, respectively, and the group IV was treated with 100 µg/L permethrin. The protective effect of Zoex against permethrin toxicity was studied as a function of dose, and groups V and VI formed for this purpose were treated with 10 µg/mL Zoex + 100 µg/L permethrin and 20 µg/mL Zoex + 100 µg/L permethrin, respectively. After 72 h of germination, cytogenetic, biochemical, physiological, and anatomical changes in meristematic cells of A. cepa were studied. As a result, permethrin application decreased the mitotic index (MI) and increased the frequency of micronuclei (MN), and chromosomal abnormalities. The increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) and the decrease in glutathione (GSH) indicate that permethrin causes oxidative damage. Compared to the control group, a 68.5% decrease in root elongation (p < 0.05) and an 81.8% decrease (p < 0.05) in weight gain were observed in the permethrin-treated group. It was found that the application of Zoex together with permethrin resulted in regression of all detected abnormalities, reduction in the incidence of anatomical damage, MN and chromosomal aberrations, and improvement in MI rates. The most significant improvement was observed in group VI treated with 20 µg/mL Zoex, and Zoex was also found to provide dose-dependent protection. The toxicity mechanism of permethrin was also elucidated by molecular docking and spectral studies. From the data obtained during the study, it was found that permethrin has toxic effects on A. cepa, a non-target organism, while Zoex plays a protective role by reducing these effects.

Effects of Catalpol from Rehmannia glutinosa Extract on Skin Flaps.

BACKGROUND: Flaps are commonly used for repairing tissues and wounds in surgery. However, various factors can cause postoperative necrosis in these flaps. Catalpol is a bioactive component in extracts from Rehmannia glutinosa , which has pharmacologic characteristics that may improve flap survival. METHODS: The experiments were performed in 36 male Sprague-Dawley rats divided into three groups: control, low-dose catalpol, and high-dose catalpol. The flap survival rate, neutrophil density, microvessel density, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde levels were measured; histopathologic analysis was performed 7 days after surgery. Blood flow was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry and lead oxide-gelatin angiography. The levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factor-kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, nod-like receptor 3, cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (caspase-1), IL-1ß, and IL-18 were determined by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Catalpol treatment increased flap survival, reduced neutrophil recruitment and release, decreased malondialdehyde levels, and increased superoxide dismutase levels; thus, it effectively reduced oxidative stress, up-regulated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, and increased microvessel density. Laser Doppler flowmetry and lead oxide-gelatin angiography showed that catalpol treatment improved angiogenesis. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that catalpol inhibited the production of inflammatory factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and IL-6, by down-regulating toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-κB. Furthermore, catalpol reduced cell pyroptosis by inhibiting the production of nod-like receptor 3 inflammasomes, thereby down-regulating the release of IL-1ß and IL-18. CONCLUSION: Catalpol can improve the rate of flap survival. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The research verified that the Rehmannia extract catalpol, through angiogenesis, inflammatory response, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and pyroptosis-related pathways, effectively improved the flap survival rate, which will provide new ideas for clinical medication.

MitoQ preserves the quality and fertility of liquid-preserved ram sperm.

Supplementing the semen extender with some antioxidants may preserve sperm quality following liquid preservation. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of the use of MitoQ in the semen extender on quality parameters and fertility of liquid-preserved ram semen. In this study, diluted semen samples were divided into five parts and supplemented with 0, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 nM MitoQ. The prepared samples were stored at 3-5 °C for up to 50 h. Motility, viability, mitochondrial activity, membrane integrity, and malondialdehyde concentration of the chilled sperm were assessed at 0, 25, and 50 h. To evaluate reproductive performance, artificial insemination was performed with semen liquid-preserved for 25 h. In results, at 0 h, no difference between the groups was observed. The use of 10 and 100 nM MitoQ resulted in higher (P ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, viability, and lower malondialdehyde concentration than the other groups after 25- and 50-h storage. Pregnancy, parturition and lambing rates were higher (P ≤ 0.05) when ewes were inseminated with 25-h chilled semen samples containing 10 and 100 nM MitoQ compared to the control. Therefore, supplementing the semen extender with MitoQ (10 and 100 nM) could be an efficient method to improve the quality and fertility rate of liquid-preserved ram semen.

The effects of pinealectomy and melatonin treatment in acrylamide-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

OBJECTIVE: Acrylamide (AA) is toxic and forms in food that undergoes high-temperature processing. This study aimed to investigate the effects of AA-induced toxicity on renal tissue in pinealectomized rats and the possible protective effect of exogenous Melatonin (ML) administration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty rats were randomized into 6 groups (n = 10): Sham, Sham+AA, Sham+AA+ML, PX, PX+AA, and PX+AA+ML. Sham and pinealectomized rats received AA (25 mg/kg/day orally) and ML (0.5 ml volume at 10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) for 21 days. RESULTS: The results showed that malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß) levels of the kidney and urea and creatinine levels of serum in the PX (pinealectomy)+AA group were more increased than in the Sham+AA group. In addition, glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels decreased more in the PX+AA group than in the Sham+AA group. Also, we observed more histopathologic damage in the PX+AA group. On the other hand, up-regulation of kidney tissue antioxidants, down-regulation of tissue oxidants, and improvement in kidney function were achieved with ML treatment. Also, histopathological findings such as inflammatory cell infiltration, shrinkage of glomeruli, and dilatation of tubules caused by AA toxicity improved with ML treatment. CONCLUSION: ML supplementation exhibited adequate nephroprotective effects against the nephrotoxicity of AA on pinealectomized rat kidney tissue function by balancing the oxidant/antioxidant status and suppressing the release of proinflammatory cytokines.

The Ethanolic Extract of Lycium ruthenicum Ameliorates Age-Related Physiological Damage in Mice.

Aging and age-related diseases are important study topics due to their associations with progressive physiological damage to genes, cells, tissues, and the entire organism, which ultimately affects the functional efficiency of organs. Lycium ruthenicum Murr. is a functional food that is known for its high contents of anthocyanins and spermidines, both of which have been demonstrated to have positive effects on anti-aging activity and anti-oxidation. In this study, we used HPLC-MS to analyze the constituents of L. ruthenicum Murr. Extract (LRM) and investigated their potential mechanism for exerting antioxidative effects in D-galactose (D-Gal) aging model mice. LRM (25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg) improved cognitive function in D-Gal-treated mice, as shown by reduced escape latencies and increased platform crossings in behavioral tests. We measured the contents of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the enzyme activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in mice serum and brain after 6 weeks of D-Gal treatment. LRM decreased the contents of LPO and MDA and increased the enzyme activities of SOD and GSH-Px, indicating the protection effect of LRM against D-Gal-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, LRM can inhibit oxidative stress in cells by reducing intracellular ROS levels and restoring mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby inhibiting paraquat (PQ)-induced cellular senescence and delaying cell aging. Therefore, LRM has the potential to be a healthcare product for the treatment of age-related diseases.

Shedding Light on Lysosomal Malondialdehyde Affecting Vitamin B12 Transport during Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury.

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is often accompanied by upregulation of homocysteine (Hcy). Excessive Hcy damages cerebral vascular endothelial cells and neurons, inducing neurotoxicity and even neurodegeneration. Normally, supplementation of vitamin B12 is an ideal intervention to reduce Hcy. However, vitamin B12 therapy is clinically inefficacious for CIRI. Considering oxidative stress is closely related to CIRI, the lysosome is the pivotal site for vitamin B12 transport. Lysosomal oxidative stress might hinder the transport of vitamin B12. Whether lysosomal malondialdehyde (lysosomal MDA), as the authoritative biomarker of lysosomal oxidative stress, interferes with the transport of vitamin B12 has not been elucidated. This is ascribed to the absence of effective methods for real-time and in situ measurement of lysosomal MDA within living brains. Herein, a fluorescence imaging agent, Lyso-MCBH, was constructed to specifically monitor lysosomal MDA by entering the brain and targeting the lysosome. Erupting the lysosomal MDA level in living brains of mice under CIRI was first observed using Lyso-MCBH. Excessive lysosomal MDA was found to affect the efficacy of vitamin B12 by blocking the transport of vitamin B12 from the lysosome to the cytoplasm. More importantly, the expression and function of the vitamin B12 transporter LMBD1 were proved to be associated with excessive lysosomal MDA. Altogether, the revealing of the lysosomal MDA-LMBD1 axis provides a cogent interpretation of the inefficacy of vitamin B12 in CIRI, which could be a prospective therapeutic target.

Effects of Tectona grandis L. Extract in Diabetic Rats on Nitric Oxide and Malondialdehyde Levels.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia caused by disturbances in pancreatic ß cells resulting in the formation of reactive oxygen species which in this study was characterized by increased levels of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde in male Wistar rats with diabetes mellitus models. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Animal modeling of diabetes mellitus using 40 mg kg¹ b.wt. streptozotocin intraperitoneally. The antioxidant activity is based on the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method. Determination of nitric oxide and MDA levels using the Griess method and Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) Assay, respectively. The animal models were divided into six treatment groups, normal control (KN), positive control (K⁺) (glibenclamide), negative control (K) (Na-CMC 0.5%), teak leaf ethanol extract group at a dose of D₁ (100 mg kg¹ b.wt.), D₂ (200 mg kg¹ b.wt.) and D₃ (300 mg kg¹ b.wt.). <b>Results:</b> The antioxidant activity showed that the IC₅₀ values of vitamin C and the ethanol extract of <i>Tectona grandis</i> leaves were 18.208 and 62.236 µg mL¹, respectively. The NO levels in KN = 83.133 µmol L¹, K⁺ = 118.300 µmol L¹, K = 317.467 µmol L¹, D₁ = 210.133 µmol L¹, D₂ = 184.467 µmol L¹ and D₃ = 129.300 µmol L¹. The MDA levels at KN = 3.767 µmol L¹, K⁺ = 8.854 µmol L¹, K = 31.032 µmol L¹, D₁ = 27.010 µmol L¹, D₂ = 20.166 µmol L¹ and D₃ = 15.512 µmol L¹. <b>Conclusion:</b> The ethanol extract of teak leaves <i>Tectona grandis</i> L. at a dose of 300 mg kg¹ reduces nitric oxide levels and plasma malondialdehyde levels in rats through the activity of antioxidant compounds.

Nephroprotective effect of vitamin D Against Levofloxacin-induced renal injury: an observational study.

The pathogenesis of kidney damage involves complicated interactions between vascular endothelial and tubular cell destruction. Evidence has shown that vitamin D may have anti-inflammatory effects in several models of kidney damage. In this study, we evaluated the effects of synthetic vitamin D on levofloxacin-induced renal injury in rats. Forty-two white Albino rats were divided into six groups, with each group comprising seven rats. Group I served as the control (negative control) and received intraperitoneal injections of normal saline (0.5 ml) once daily for twenty-one days. Group II and Group III were treated with a single intraperitoneal dose of Levofloxacin (50 mg/kg/day) and (100 mg/kg/day), respectively, for 14 days (positive control groups). Group IV served as an additional negative control and received oral administration of vitamin D3 (500 IU/rat/day) for twenty-one days. In Group V, rats were orally administered vitamin D3 (500 IU/rat/day) for twenty-one days, and intraperitoneal injections of Levofloxacin (50 mg/kg/day) were administered on day 8 for 14 days. Group VI received oral vitamin D3 supplementation (500 IU/rat/day) for twenty-one days, followed by intraperitoneal injections of Levofloxacin (100 mg/kg/day) on day 8 for fourteen days. Blood samples were collected to measure creatinine, urea, malondialdehyde, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase levels. Compared to the positive control group, vitamin D supplementation lowered creatinine, urea, and malondialdehyde levels, while increasing glutathione reductase and superoxide dismutase levels. Urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde levels were significantly (p<0.05) higher in rats administered LFX 50mg and 100mg compared to rats given (LFX + vitamin D). The main findings of this study show that vitamin D reduces renal dysfunction, suggesting that vitamin D has antioxidant properties and may be used to prevent renal injury.

Effects of dietary epidermal growth factor supplementation on liver antioxidant capacity of piglets with intrauterine growth retardation.

The present experiment was conducted to study the effects of dietary epidermal growth factor (EGF) supplementation on the liver antioxidant capacity of piglets with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). The present study consists of two experiments. In experiment 1, six normal-birth-weight (NBW) and six IUGR newborn piglets were slaughtered within 2 to 4 h after birth to compare the effects of IUGR on the liver antioxidant capacity of newborn piglets. The results showed that compared with NBW piglets, IUGR piglets had a lower birth weight and liver relative weight; IUGR piglets had a higher serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level, liver MDA level and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) level, and had a lower liver total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity; IUGR trended to increase serum alanine aminotransferase activity, aspartate aminotransferase activity, and H2O2 level, and trended to decrease liver total superoxide dismutase activity. In experiment 2, six NBW piglets, and 12 IUGR piglets weaned at 21 d of age were randomly divided into the NC group (NBW piglets fed with basal diet); IC group (IUGR piglets fed with basal diet), and IE group (IUGR piglets fed with basal diet plus 2 mg/kg EGF), and feeding for 14 d. Organ index, serum parameters, liver antioxidant capacity, and liver antioxidant-related genes expression were measured. The results showed that compared to the IC group, dietary EGF supplementation (IE group) significantly reduced serum malondialdehyde level and H2O2 level, and liver protein carbonyl (PC) level and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine level of piglets with IUGR; dietary EGF supplementation (IE group) significantly increased serum T-AOC level, liver T-AOC level and GSH-Px activity; dietary supplemented with EGF (IE group) enhanced liver Nrf2, NQO1, HO1, and GPX1 mRNA expression compared to IC group. Pearson's correlation analysis further showed that EGF can alleviate liver oxidative injury caused by IUGR and improve the performance of IUGR piglets. In conclusion, EGF exhibited potent protective effects on IUGR-induced liver oxidative injury, by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway to mediate the expression of downstream antioxidant enzymes and phase II detoxification enzymes (NQO1 and HO1), thereby alleviating liver oxidative damage and promoting the growth performance of IUGR piglets.

The liver is an important metabolic and secretory organ in vertebrates, which plays an important role in the overall health of animals. Studies have shown that intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) can cause liver injury in piglets, which is unfavorable to the growth and development of piglets. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has antioxidant properties, but its effect on liver oxidative damage caused by IUGR remains uncertain. In the present study, we chose newborn piglets with low birth weight as the IUGR models to investigate whether IUGR could cause oxidative damage in the liver. Then, the diet supplemented with EGF was fed to IUGR piglets to study the effects of EGF supplementation on the liver antioxidant function of IUGR-weaned piglets. Results showed that IUGR caused serious damage to the liver of piglets, while dietary EGF supplementation could reverse the oxidative injury induced by IUGR to some extent. Therefore, this study confirmed that EGF has positive effects on the liver health of piglets with IUGR.

The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on glycemic control, adipokines, cytokines, malondialdehyde and liver function enzymes in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The present systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on glycemic control, adipokines, cytokines, malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver function enzymes in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease. METHODS: Relevant studies were obtained by searching the PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases (from inception to January 2023). Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were reported using standard methods. RESULTS: A pooled analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that CLA supplementation led to a significant increment in fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD: 4.49 mg/dL; 95%CI: 2.39 to 6.59; P < 0.001), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (WMD: 2.54 IU/L; 95%CI: 0.06 to 5.01; P = 0.044). Moreover, CLA supplementation decreased leptin (WMD: -1.69 ng/ml; 95% CI: -1.80 to -1.58; P < 0.001), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) (WMD: -0.44 pg/ml; 95%CI: -0.86 to -0.02; P = 0.037). However, there was no effect on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) adiponectin compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed the overall favorable effect of CLA supplementation on the adipokines and cytokines including serum IL-6, and leptin, while increasing FBG and AST. It should be noted that the mentioned metabolic effects of CLA consumption were small and may not reach clinical importance. PROSPERO REGISTERATION COD: CRD42023426374.

The Effects of White Tea (Camellia Sinensis) and Infliximab Against Cisplatin- Induced Testicular Damage via Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis / Efectos del Té Blanco (Camellia Sinensis) e Infliximab Contra el Daño Testicular Inducido por Cisplatino a Través del Estrés Oxidativo y la Apoptosis

SUMMARY: Cisplatin (Cis) is an important chemotherapeutic agent used in cancer treatment. Males exposed to Cis were reported to exhibit testicular toxicity. Cis-induced testicular toxicity is mediated by oxidative stress, inflammation, testosterone inhibition and apoptosis. Accordingly, this study was conducted to evaluate the potential protective roles of infliximab (IFX), which is an anti- TNF-a agent, and of white tea (Camellia sinensis), which is known to possess antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects, against Cis-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups as follows: control group, Cisplatin (7 mg/kg) treatment group, Cisplatin (7 mg/kg) + infliximab (7 mg/kg) treatment group, cisplatin + white tea (WT) treatment group, and Cisplatin+ WT+IFX combined treatment group. In the present study, Cis exposure reduced the sperm count. It also increased testicular oxidative stress as well as the levels of inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Histopathological assays supported the biochemical findings. Treatment with IFX and/or WT restored testicular histology, preserved spermatogenesis, suppressed oxidative stress and apoptosis, and significantly ameliorated Cis-induced damage. It was concluded that white tea and infliximab could potentially serve as therapeutic options for the protection of testicular tissue against the harmful effects of Cis.

El cisplatino (Cis) es un importante agente quimioterapéutico utilizado en el tratamiento del cáncer. Se informó que los hombres expuestos a Cis exhibieron toxicidad testicular. La toxicidad testicular inducida por Cis está mediada por el estrés oxidativo, la inflamación, la inhibición de la testosterona y la apoptosis. En consecuencia, este estudio se realizó para evaluar las posibles funciones protectoras de infliximab (IFX), un agente anti-TNF-α, y del té blanco (Camellia sinensis), conocido por sus propiedades antioxidantes, antiapoptóticas y anti-TNF-α -efectos inflamatorios, contra la toxicidad testicular inducida por Cis en ratas. Cinco grupos de ratas se asignaron al azar de la siguiente manera: grupo control, grupo de tratamiento con cisplatino (7 mg/ kg), grupo de tratamiento con cisplatino (7 mg/kg) + infliximab (7 mg/kg), grupo de tratamiento con cisplatino + té blanco (WT), y grupo de tratamiento combinado Cisplatino+ WT+IFX. En el presente estudio, la exposición a Cis redujo el conteo de espermatozoides. También aumentó el estrés oxidativo testicular, así como los niveles de marcadores inflamatorios y apoptóticos. Los ensayos histopatológicos respaldaron los hallazgos bioquímicos. El tratamiento con IFX y/o WT restauró la histología testicular, preservó la espermatogénesis, suprimió el estrés oxidativo y la apoptosis, y mejoró significativamente el daño inducido por Cis. Se concluyó que el té blanco y el infliximab podrían potencialmente servir como opciones terapéuticas para la protección del tejido testicular contra los efectos nocivos de Cis.