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This study examines the levels of heavy metals in polyculture fish (Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio, and Catla catla), water, and sediment in Tanda Dam, Kohat, Pakistan, aiming to understand environmental and health risks. Samples of fish, water, and sediment were collected from 3 fish farms, and heavy metal concentrations were measured using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Results reveal that C. catla exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) levels of Zn than other fish species. Conversely, C. carpio showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Mn, Cu, As, and Ni than other species. The heavy metal hierarchy in C. carpio was found to be Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Cd > Mn > As > Ni. While heavy metal levels in L. rohita and C. catla generally fell within reference ranges, exceptions were noted for Zn, Pb, and Cd. Conversely, in C. carpio, all metals exceeded reference ranges except for Cu and Ni. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated a close relationship between water and sediment. Additionally, cluster analysis suggested that C. catla formed a distinct cluster from L. rohita and C. carpio, implying different responses to the environment. Despite concerns raised by the Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) and Contamination Factor (CF), particularly for Cd, which exhibited a high CF. Furthermore, Hazard Index (HI) values for all three fish species were below 1, suggesting low health risks. However, elevated Igeo and CF values for Cd suggest significant pollution originating from anthropogenic sources. This study underscores the importance of monitoring heavy metals in water for both environmental preservation and human health protection. Future research efforts should prioritize pollution control measures to ensure ecosystem and public health safety.
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Monitoreo del Ambiente , Sedimentos Geológicos , Metales Pesados , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua , Metales Pesados/análisis , Animales , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua/análisis , Humanos , Medición de Riesgo , Sedimentos Geológicos/química , Monitoreo del Ambiente/métodos , Pakistán , Ecosistema , Carpas/metabolismo , Peces/metabolismo , Análisis de Componente Principal , AcuiculturaRESUMEN
The increasing levels of heavy metals in aquatic environments, driven by human activities, pose a critical threat to ecosystems' overall health and sustainability. This study investigates the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd) in water, sediment, and three fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala) of different feeding zones within Chashma Barrage, located in the Mianwali district of Punjab, Pakistan, on the Indus River. A comprehensive analysis, including an assessment of associated human health risks, was conducted. Thirty samples from all three sites for each fish species, with an average body weight of 160 ± 32 g, were collected from Chashma Barrage. Water quality parameters indicated suitability for fish growth and health. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results indicated elevated levels of Cd, Cr, and Cu in sediment and Pb and Cd in water, surpassing WHO standard limits. Among the fish species, bottom feeder (C. mrigala) exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher heavy metal levels in its tissues (gills, liver, and muscle) compared to column feeder (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla). Liver tissues across all species showed higher heavy metal bioaccumulation, followed by gills. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations among heavy metals in sediment, gills, muscle, and water in every fish species. However, the vector direction suggests that Cr was not correlated with other heavy metals in the system, indicating a different source. The human health risk analysis revealed lower EDI, THQ, and HI values (< 1) for the fish species, indicating no adverse health effects for the exposed population. The study emphasizes the bioaccumulation differences among fish species, underscoring the higher heavy metal concentrations in bottom feeder fish within Chashma Barrage.
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Background and aims: Root-knot nematodes (RKN; Meloidogyne spp.) are among the highly prevalent and significantly detrimental pathogens that cause severe economic and yield losses in crops. Currently, control of RKN primarily relies on the application of chemical nematicides but it has environmental and public health concerns, which open new doors for alternative methods in the form of biological control. Methods: In this study, we investigated the nematicidal and attractive activities of an endophytic strain WF01 against Meloidogyne incognita in concentration-dependent experiments. The active nematicidal metabolite was extracted in the WF01 crude extract through the Sephadex column, and its structure was identified by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry data. Results: The strain WF01 was identified as Aspergillus tubingensis based on morphological and molecular characteristics. The nematicidal and attractive metabolite of A. tubingensis WF01 was identified as oxalic acid (OA), which showed solid nematicidal activity against M. incognita, having LC50 of 27.48 µg ml-1. The Nsy-1 of AWC and Odr-7 of AWA were the primary neuron genes for Caenorhabditis elegans to detect OA. Under greenhouse, WF01 broth and 200 µg ml-1 OA could effectively suppress the disease caused by M. incognita on tomatoes respectively with control efficiency (CE) of 62.5% and 70.83%, and promote plant growth. In the field, WF01-WP and 8% OA-WP formulations showed moderate CEs of 51.25%-61.47% against RKN in tomato and tobacco. The combined application of WF01 and OA resulted in excellent CEs of 66.83% and 69.34% toward RKN in tomato and tobacco, respectively. Furthermore, the application of WF01 broth or OA significantly suppressed the infection of J2s in tomatoes by upregulating the expression levels of the genes (PAL, C4H, HCT, and F5H) related to lignin synthesis, and strengthened root lignification. Conclusion: Altogether, our results demonstrated that A. tubingensis WF01 exhibited multiple weapons to control RKN mediated by producing OA to lure and kill RKN in a concentration-dependent manner and strengthen root lignification. This fungus could serve as an environmental bio-nematicide for managing the diseases caused by RKN.
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Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a medicinal herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. It is celebrated for its diverse pharmacological properties and traditional uses in folk medicine, particularly in addressing hepatotoxicity. Cisplatin (Cis), a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely employed in cancer treatment, is recognized for its efficacy but often accompanied by adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study was to assess whether an ethanolic S. officinalis extract (ESOE) could provide protection against Cis-induced hepatotoxicity in an experimental rat model. The ESOE was prepared using standard extraction techniques, and its chemical constituents were elucidated through UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, revealing the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, which are associated with various therapeutic effects, including hepatoprotection. Adult male albino rats were allocated into four groups: control, ESOE (250 mg/kg), Cis (7.5 mg/kg), and ESOE (250 mg/kg) + Cis (7.5 mg/kg). The treatment duration lasted 21 days, with Cis administration on the 22nd day. Twenty-four hours post-Cis administration, blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. Cis-induced hepatotoxicity was evidenced by alterations in hematological parameters, including erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte, and lymphocyte counts, alongside elevated serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT, LDH, AST, ALP, and GGT), indicative of liver damage. Furthermore, Cis exposure resulted in increased hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitric oxide (NO) levels, oxidative stress markers, coupled with decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), a non-enzymatic antioxidant, and histopathological changes in liver tissue, characterized by necrosis and inflammation. Additionally, Cis treatment led to elevated levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), TNF-α, and IL-6, indicating oxidative stress and inflammation. Remarkably, pretreatment with ESOE ameliorated these Cis-induced hepatotoxic effects, as evidenced by improved hematological parameters, reduced liver enzyme activities, alleviated oxidative stress, and ameliorated histopathological alterations. The observed hepatoprotective effects of ESOE against Cis-induced liver injury may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent in mitigating chemotherapy-associated hepatotoxicity.
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Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas , Cisplatino , Hígado , Estrés Oxidativo , Extractos Vegetales , Salvia officinalis , Animales , Salvia officinalis/química , Cisplatino/efectos adversos , Cisplatino/toxicidad , Ratas , Estrés Oxidativo/efectos de los fármacos , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/química , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/tratamiento farmacológico , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/patología , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/metabolismo , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/prevención & control , Masculino , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología , Hígado/metabolismo , Inflamación/tratamiento farmacológico , Inflamación/patología , Inflamación/inducido químicamente , Antioxidantes/farmacología , Glutatión/metabolismoRESUMEN
Introduction: This study investigates the potential effects of cannabis seed oil (CSO) on the wound healing process. The aim was to assess the efficacy of CSO in treating skin wounds using an animal model and to explore its anti-inflammatory properties through in silico analysis. Methods: Eighteen male albino Wistar rats, weighing between 200 and 250 g, were divided into three groups: an untreated negative control group, a group treated with the reference drug silver sulfadiazine (SSD) (0.01 g/mL), and a group treated topically with CSO (0.962 g/mL). The initial wound diameter for all groups was 1 cm. In silico studies were conducted using Maestro 11.5 to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of phytoconstituents against cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Results: CSO and SSD treatments led to a significant reduction (p <0.05) in the size of burned skin wounds by day 5, with contraction rates of 53.95% and 45.94%, respectively, compared to the untreated negative control group. By day 15, wounds treated with CSO and SSD had nearly healed, showing contraction rates of 98.8% and 98.15%, respectively. By day 20, the wounds treated with CSO had fully healed (100%), while those treated with SSD had almost completely healed, with a contraction rate of 98.97%. Histological examination revealed granulated tissue, neo-blood vessels, fibroblasts, and collagen fibers in wounds treated with CSO. In silico studies identified arachidic acid, γ-linolenic acid, and linolenic acid as potent inhibitors of COX-1 and COX-2. Serum biochemical parameters indicated no significant changes (p > 0.05) in liver and kidney function in rats treated with CSO, whereas a significant increase (p < 0.01) in ALAT level was observed in rats treated with SSD. Discussion: The findings demonstrate that CSO has a promising effect on wound healing. The CSO treatment resulted in significant wound contraction and histological improvements, with no adverse effects on liver and kidney function.However, the study's limitations, including the small sample size and the need for detailed elucidation of CSO's mechanism of action, suggest that further research is necessary. Future studies should focus on exploring the molecular pathways and signaling processes involved in CSO's pharmacological effects.
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Controlling the hazard of sclerotia produced by the Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is very complex, and it is urgent to adopt an effective method that is harmonious environmentally to control the disease. Among the six isolates isolated from the rhizosphere of lettuce, the isolate HZA84 demonstrated a high activity in its antagonism towards Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in vitro, and produces siderophore. By amplification of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α), and RNA polymerase II subunit (RPB2) genes, the isolate HZA84 was identified as Trichoderma asperellum, which was confirmed by analysis of phylogenetic tree. The Scanning electron microscope monitoring detected that the isolate HZA84 spread over the sclerotial surface, thus, damaging, decomposing, and distorting the globular cells of the outer cortex of the sclerotia. The Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis disclosed the overexpression of two genes (chit33 and chit37) encoding the endochitinase in addition to one gene (prb1) encoding the proteinase during 4 and 8 days of the parasitism behavior of isolate HZA84 on the sclerotia surface. These enzymes aligned together in the sclerotia destruction by hyperparasitism. On the other hand, the pots trial revealed that spraying of isolate HZA84 reduced the drop disease symptoms of lettuce. The disease severity was decreased by 19.33 and the biocontrol efficiency was increased by 80.67% within the fourth week of inoculation. These findings magnify the unique role of Trichoderma in disrupting the development of plant diseases in sustainable ways.
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Ascomicetos , Lactuca , Filogenia , Enfermedades de las Plantas , Lactuca/microbiología , Ascomicetos/genética , Ascomicetos/fisiología , Enfermedades de las Plantas/microbiología , Proteínas Fúngicas/genética , Proteínas Fúngicas/metabolismo , Rizosfera , Antibiosis , Hypocreales/genética , Hypocreales/metabolismo , Hypocreales/aislamiento & purificación , Microbiología del Suelo , Trichoderma/genética , Trichoderma/aislamiento & purificación , Trichoderma/fisiología , Trichoderma/metabolismoRESUMEN
Pesticides are frequently used to protect crop yields and manage malaria vectors; however, their inadvertent transport into aquatic habitats poses a significant concern. Various anthropogenic activities influence the Indus River in Pakistan. This study aimed to assess the presence of eight pesticide residues at three different sites (Kalabagh, Kundian, and Chashma) in water, sediment, and the fish species (Labeo rohita) during both dry and wet seasons to measure the intensity of this pressure. Pesticide analysis was carried out using gas chromatography equipped with an electron capture detector. The results revealed the highest concentrations of pesticides during both dry and wet seasons at all sites, measuring 0.83 and 0.62 µg/l (water), 12.37 and 9.20 µg/g/dw (sediment), and 14.27 and 11.29 µg/g/ww (L. rohita), respectively. Overall, pesticide concentrations were higher in the dry season than in the wet season across all study sites. Based on detection frequency and concentration in both seasons at all sites, dominant pesticides included cypermethrin and carbofuran (in water), as well as endosulfan and cypermethrin (in sediment and fish tissue). Levels of endosulfan and cypermethrin exceeded standard limits. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA) indicated no correlation among pesticides in fish tissue, sediment, and water. However, pesticides exhibited different behavior in different seasons. Furthermore, endosulfan and triazophos impose great human health risk, as indicated by the THQ value (> 1). The overall HI value was greater for site 1 in the dry season (8.378). The study concluded that the presence of agricultural pesticides in the Indus River poses a risk to aquatic life and has the potential to disrupt the entire food chain. This highlights the importance of sustainable practices for the study area and Pakistan overall agricultural and environmental sustainability. It is further recommended to strengthen regulations for reduced pesticide use and promote eco-friendly pest management.
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Monitoreo del Ambiente , Sedimentos Geológicos , Plaguicidas , Ríos , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua , Sedimentos Geológicos/química , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua/análisis , Animales , Ríos/química , Pakistán , Humanos , Medición de Riesgo , Plaguicidas/análisis , Monitoreo del Ambiente/métodos , Estaciones del Año , Residuos de Plaguicidas/análisis , Cyprinidae , PecesRESUMEN
Heavy metal bioaccumulation in organisms is primarily a result of dietary uptake. The current study examines the concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, and Cu) in fish feed, water, sediment, and three fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, and Cyprinus carpio) from different feeding zones in a polyculture pond system. Furthermore, associated human health risks were also evaluated. The fish samples (n = 25 for each species) were collected from 10 different fish ponds in the Kohat district, Pakistan. Heavy metals were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results revealed higher concentrations of heavy metals in sediment, followed by water. However, the concentration of heavy metals in fish feed was lower than the standard limits. In the case of fish, the bottom feeder (C. carpio) notably exhibited higher (P < 0.05) levels of heavy metals than the column feeder (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla) fish. Moreover, in the liver of all fish species, the bioaccumulation of heavy metals was higher, followed by the gills. Principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated a strong correlation of heavy metals in C. carpio gills, flesh, feed, and pond water, while the heavy metals in the liver correlated with the detected metals in sediment. The human health risk analysis shows that bottom feeder fish had higher estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) values (> 1). Consequently, the exposed population may experience adverse health effects. The findings of this study suggest that the bottom feeder (C. carpio) bioaccumulates a higher concentration of heavy metals than column (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla) in the polyculture system.
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The ergosterol from mushrooms has gained significant ethnopharmacological importance in various cultures, including China, Japan, and Europe. This compound has been found to possess immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in the treatment of immune disorders. In this study, we focused on investigating the potential anticancer properties of ergosterol isolated from the edible mushroom Leucocalocybe mongolica in breast cancer cell lines. The ergosterol was purified and identified using advanced analytical techniques such as ESI-MS and NMR. We conducted cell proliferation assays on 4 T1 breast cancer cells to assess the cytotoxic effects of ergosterol. Furthermore, we analyzed the transcription levels of BAX, caspase-7, BCL-2, STAT-3, and PARP proteins using real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Additionally, we employed non-targeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to study the potential mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of ergosterol at the metabolomics level. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in cell viability and the induction of apoptosis upon treatment with ergosterol, especially at higher concentrations (P < 0.05). Moreover, ergosterol affected the expression of cancer-related genes, upregulating pro-apoptotic proteins such as BAX, caspase-7, and PARP, while downregulating the anti-apoptotic proteins BCL-2 and STAT-3 (P < 0.05). Western blot analysis confirmed these findings and provided further evidence of ergosterol's role in inducing apoptosis. Metabolomics analysis revealed substantial changes in pathways related to amino acid, antioxidant, and carbohydrate metabolism. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that ergosterol exhibits anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and modulating metabolic pathways in breast cancer cells.
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Recently, nanotechnology is among the most promising technologies used in all areas of research. The production of metal nanoparticles using plant parts has received significant attention for its environmental friendliness and effectiveness. Therefore, we investigated the possible applications of biological synthesized nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs). In this study, NiONPs were synthesized through biological method using an aqueous extract of saffron stigmas (Crocus sativus L). The structure, morphology, purity, and physicochemical properties of the obtained NPs were confirmed through Scanning/Transmission Electron Microscopy attached with Energy Dispersive Spectrum, X-ray Diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared. The spherically shaped NiONPs were found by Debye Scherer's formula to have a mean dimension of 41.19 nm. The application of NiONPs in vitro at 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL, respectively, produced a clear region of 2.0, 2.2, and 2.5 cm. Treatment of Xoo cell with NiONPs reduced the growth and biofilm formation, respectively, by 88.68% and 83.69% at 200 µg/mL. Adding 200 µg/mL NiONPs into Xoo cells produced a significant amount of ROS in comparison with the control. Bacterial apoptosis increased dramatically from 1.05% (control) to 99.80% (200 µg/mL NiONPs). When compared to the control, rice plants treated with 200 µg/mL NiONPs significantly improved growth characteristics and biomass. Interestingly, the proportion of diseased leaf area in infected plants with Xoo treated with NiONPs reduced to 22% from 74% in diseased plants. Taken together, NiONPs demonstrates its effectiveness as a promising tool as a nano-bactericide in managing bacterial infection caused by Xoo.
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Nanopartículas del Metal , Níquel , Oryza , Xanthomonas , Oryza/microbiología , Enfermedades de las Plantas/prevención & control , Enfermedades de las Plantas/microbiologíaRESUMEN
The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has become a safe replacement for conventional chemical synthesis methods to fight plant pathogens. In this study, the antifungal activity of biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated both in vitro and under greenhouse conditions against root rot fungi of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), including Macrophomina phaseolina, Pythium graminicola, Rhizoctonia solani, and Sclerotium rolfsii. Among the eleven biosynthesized AgNPs, those synthesized using Alhagi graecorum plant extract displayed the highest efficacy in suppressing those fungi. The findings showed that using AgNPs made with A. graecorum at a concentration of 100 µg/mL greatly slowed down the growth of mycelium for R. solani, P. graminicola, S. rolfsii, and M. phaseolina by 92.60%, 94.44%, 75.93%, and 79.63%, respectively. Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentration (75 µg/mL) of AgNPs synthesized by A. graecorum was very effective against all of these fungi, lowering the pre-emergence damping-off, post-emergence damping-off, and disease percent and severity in vitro and greenhouse conditions. Additionally, the treatment with AgNPs led to increased root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight, and vigor index of bean seedlings compared to the control group. The synthesis of nanoparticles using A. graecorum was confirmed using various physicochemical techniques, including UV spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Collectively, the findings of this study highlight the potential of AgNPs as an effective and environmentally sustainable approach for controlling root rot fungi in beans.
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Morphological comparisons and multi locus phylogenetic analyses (base on the combined genes of ITS, LSU, rpb2 and tub) demonstrated that three new saprobic taxa isolated from bamboo belong to Cainiaceae. These taxa comprise a novel genus Paramphibambusa (P.bambusicolasp. nov.) and two new species, Arecophilaxishuangbannaensis and A.zhaotongensis. The three new taxa belong to Cainiaceae (Xylariales, Sordariomycetes) a poorly studied family, which now comprises eight genera. Paramphibambusa can be distinguished from other Cainiaceae genera in having ascomata with a neck and ascospores lacking longitudinal striation, germ slits or germ pores. The two new Arecophila species clustered in a clade with Arecophila sp. and A.bambusae. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and an updated phylogenetic tree are provided for the new taxa.
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The exposure of fish to heavy metals can significantly impact physiological processes and potentially lead to adverse health effects. This study assesses the effects of exposure to Cd and Pb sublethal concentrations in water on Wallagu attu. A total of 48 fish with an average body weight of 145.5 ± 26 g were distributed among three groups (control, Cd-treated, and Pb-treated) within 60 L fiberglass tanks. They were exposed to 30% sublethal concentrations of Cd and Pb for durations of 1, 15, and 30 days. Following this exposure, an assessment was conducted on metal bioaccumulation and hemato-biochemical responses. Results revealed a significantly (P < 0.05) higher concentration of heavy metals in the fish tissues of metals exposed groups than in the control. The concentration of Cd and Pb increases in fish tissues (kidney > gills > intestine) with exposure time. In most cases, the Pb-exposed group exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher concentrations of Pb in different tissues than the Cd-treated group. With extended exposure time, the activities of CAT and SOD show a significant decrease in both Cd and Pb-treated groups. However, the reduction in activities was more pronounced in the Cd-exposed group. On 15 and 30 days, the levels of red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (HB), hematocrit (HCT), and total protein (TP) decrease in groups exposed to Cd and Pb. The cortisol and glucose levels exhibit a more noticeable (P < 0.05) increase with prolonged exposure to Cd and Pb than the control group. On day 30, the survival rate decreased more in the Pb-exposed group. The findings of this study indicate that exposure to sublethal doses of Cd and Pb induces stress in Wallagu attu, resulting in rapid changes in specific hemato-biochemical parameters.
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Using green tomato extract, a green approach was used to synthesize manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnO2NPs). The synthesis of MnO2NPs was (20.93-36.85 nm) confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) analyses. One hundred fifty-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly divided into five groups. The control group received a diet containing 60 mg Mn/kg (100% NRC broiler recommendation). The other four groups received different levels of Mn from both bulk MnO2 and green synthesized MnO2NPs, ranging from 66 to 72 mg/kg (110% and 120% of the standard level). Each group comprised 30 birds, in three replicates of 10 birds each. Generally, the study's results indicate that incorporating MnO2NPs as a feed additive had no negative effects on broiler chick growth, antioxidant status, and overall physiological responses. The addition of MnO2NPs, whether at 66 or 72 mg/kg, led to enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in both serum and liver tissues of the broiler chicks. Notably, the 72 mg MnO2NPs group displayed significantly higher SOD activity compared to the other groups. The study was further justified through docking. High throughput targeted docking was performed for proteins GHS, GST, and SOD with MnO2. SOD showed an effective binding affinity of -2.3 kcal/mol. This research sheds light on the potential of MnO2NPs as a safe and effective feed additive for broiler chicks. Further studies are required to explore the underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of incorporating MnO2NPs into broiler feed, to optimize broiler production and promote its welfare.
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Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley (FIP), a member of the Papaveraceae family, has a documented history of use in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular ailments, particularly hypertension, and has shown substantial therapeutic efficacy among native cultures worldwide. However, the identification of bioactive compounds and the mechanism of hypotensive effect with the cardioprotective potential investigations are yet to be determined. The study aimed to identify bioactive compounds, explore the hypotensive mechanism and cardioprotective potential, and assess the safety of Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley hydromethanolic extract (Fip.Cr). LC ESI-MS/MS analysis was performed to identify the bioactive compounds. In vitro experiments were conducted on isolated rat aorta and atria, and an in vivo invasive BP measurement model was used. Acute and subacute toxicities were assessed for 14 and 28 days, respectively. Isoproterenol (ISO) was used to develop the rats' myocardial infarction damage model. The mRNA levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and the abundance level of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus were measured by qRT-PCR. The hypotensive effect of FIP bioactive compounds was also investigated using in silico methods. Fip. Cr LC ESI-MS/MS analysis discovered 33 bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids. In isolated rat aorta, Fip.Cr reversed contractions induced by K+ (80 mM), demonstrating a calcium entry-blocking function, and had a vasorelaxant impact on phenylephrine (PE) (1 µM)-induced contractions unaffected by L-NAME, ruling out endothelial NO participation. Fip.Cr caused negative chronotropic and inotropic effects in isolated rat atria unaffected by atropine pretreatment, eliminating cardiac muscarinic receptor involvement. Safety evaluation showed no major adverse effects. In vivo, invasive BP measurement demonstrated a hypotensive effect comparable to verapamil. Fip.Cr protected the rats from ISO-induced MI interventions significantly in biometrical and cardiac serum biochemical indicators and histological examinations by reducing inflammation via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and elevating Firmicutes and Lactobacillus levels. The network pharmacology study revealed that the FIP hypotensive mechanism might involve MMP9, JAK2, HMOX1, NOS2, NOS3, TEK, SERPINE1, CCL2, and VEGFA. The molecular docking study revealed that FIP bioactive compounds docked better with CAC1C_ HUMAN than verapamil. These findings demonstrated that Fip.Cr's hypotensive mechanism may include calcium channel blocker activity. Fip.Cr ameliorated ISO-induced myocardial infarction in rats by attenuating inflammation, which might be via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and may prove beneficial for treating MI.
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AIMS: Cognitive impairment poses a considerable health challenge in the context of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), emphasizing the need for effective interventions. This study delves into the therapeutic efficacy of quercetin, a natural flavonoid, in mitigating cognitive impairment induced by T2DM in murine models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Serum exosome samples were obtained from both T2DM-related and healthy mice for transcriptome sequencing, enabling the identification of differentially expressed mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Subsequent experiments were conducted to ascertain the binding affinity between mmu-miR-129-5p, NEAT1 and BDNF. The structural characteristics and dimensions of isolated exosomes were scrutinized, and the expression levels of exosome-associated proteins were quantified. Primary mouse hippocampal neurons were cultured for in vitro validation, assessing the expression of pertinent genes as well as neuronal vitality, proliferation, and apoptosis capabilities. For in vivo validation, a T2DM mouse model was established, and quercetin treatment was administered. Changes in various parameters, cognitive ability, and the expression of insulin-related proteins, along with pivotal signaling pathways, were monitored. KEY FINDINGS: Analysis of serum exosomes from T2DM mice revealed dysregulation of NEAT1, mmu-miR-129-5p, and BDNF. In vitro investigations demonstrated that NEAT1 upregulated BDNF expression by inhibiting mmu-miR-129-5p. Overexpression of mmu-miR-129-5p or silencing NEAT1 resulted in the downregulation of insulin-related protein expression, enhanced apoptosis, and suppressed neuronal proliferation. In vivo studies validated that quercetin treatment significantly ameliorated T2DM-related cognitive impairment in mice. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings suggest that quercetin holds promise in inhibiting hippocampal neuron apoptosis and improving T2DM-related cognitive impairment by modulating the NEAT1/miR-129-5p/BDNF pathway within serum exosomes.
Asunto(s)
Disfunción Cognitiva , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 , Insulinas , MicroARNs , ARN Largo no Codificante , Animales , Ratones , ARN Largo no Codificante/genética , ARN Largo no Codificante/metabolismo , Quercetina/farmacología , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/genética , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/complicaciones , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/tratamiento farmacológico , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/genética , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/complicaciones , Proliferación Celular/genética , MicroARNs/genética , MicroARNs/metabolismo , Disfunción Cognitiva/tratamiento farmacológico , Disfunción Cognitiva/genéticaRESUMEN
As a subtropical and tropical tree, bayberry (Myrica rubra) is an important fruit tree grown commercially in southern China. Interestingly, our studies found that the fruit quality of bayberry with accompanying ryegrass was significantly improved, but its mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of accompanying ryegrass on the beneficial effect of the fruit quality of bayberry by measuring the vegetative growth parameters, fruit parameters with economic impact, physical and chemical properties of rhizosphere soil, microbial community structure, and metabolites of the bayberry with/without ryegrass. Notably, the results revealed a significant difference between bayberry trees with and without accompanying ryegrass in fruit quality parameters, soil physical and chemical properties, microbial community structure, and metabolites. Compared with the control without accompanying ryegrass, the planting of ryegrass increased the titratable sugar, vitamin C, and titratable flavonoid contents of bayberry fruits by 2.26%, 28.45%, and 25.00%, respectively, and decreased the titratable acid contents by 9.04%. Furthermore, based on 16S and ITS amplicon sequencing of soil microflora, the accompanying ryegrass caused a 12.47% increment in Acidobacteriota while a 30.04% reduction in Actinobacteria was recorded, respectively, when compared with the bayberry trees without ryegrass. Redundancy discriminant analysis of microbial communities and soil properties indicated that the main variables of the bacterial community included available nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable aluminum, and available kalium, while the main variables of the fungal community included exchangeable aluminum, available phosphorus, available kalium, and pH. In addition, the change in microbial community structure was justified by the high correlation analysis between microorganisms and secondary metabolites. Indeed, GC-MS metabolomics analysis showed that planting ryegrass caused a 3.83%-144.36% increase in 19 metabolites such as 1,3-Dipentyl-heptabarbital and carbonic acid 1, respectively, and a 23.78%-51.79% reduction of 5 metabolites compared to the bayberry trees without the accompanying ryegrass. Overall, the results revealed the significant change caused by the planting of ryegrass in the physical and chemical properties, microbiota, and secondary metabolites of the bayberry rhizosphere soils, which provides a new insight for the ecological improvement of bayberry.
RESUMEN
The goal of the current study is to achieve plant-mediated synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NPs). The plant extract of Saccharum arundinaceum was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the synthesis of Fe2O3 NPs. Different techniques such as energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) were used to characterize the synthesis of Fe2O3 NPs. UV-visible spectroscopy verified the synthesis of Fe2O3 NPs using a surface plasmon resonance peak at a wavelength of 370 nm. SEM analysis specifies the spherical morphology of the synthesized nanoparticles with a size range between 30 and 70 nm. The reducing and capping materials of Fe2O3 NPs were revealed by FT-IR analysis based on functional group identification. The plant extract contained essential functional groups, such as C-H, C-O, N-H, -CH2, and -OH, that facilitate the green synthesis of Fe2O3 NPs. The EDX analysis detected the atomic percentage with the elemental composition of Fe2O3 NPs, while the XRD pattern demonstrated the crystallinity of Fe2O3 NPs. Furthermore, the synthesized Fe2O3 NPs showed potential antiglycation activity under in vitro conditions, which was confirmed by the efficient zone of inhibition on glycation of bovine serum albumin/glucose (BSA-glucose) in the order <100 < 500 < 1000 µg/mL, which revealed that Fe2O3 NPs showed significant antiglycation activity. Additionally, the cytotoxic activity against brain glioblastoma cells was assessed using the MTT assay, which exhibited diminished cytotoxic activity at concentrations lower than 300 µg/mL. Thus, we assumed that the resulting Fe2O3 NPs are a good option for use in drug delivery and cancer treatments.