Biochemical processes mediating neurotoxicity induced by synthetic food dyes: A review of current evidence.

The extensive use of synthetic food dyes in the food industry, primarily due to their durability and cost-effectiveness compared to natural colorants, has raised significant health concerns. Of particular concern are the potential neurotoxic effects of six commonly used synthetic food dyes: Tartrazine (E102/FD&C Yellow No. 5), Erythrosine (E127/FD&C Red No. 3), Brilliant Blue FCF (E133/FD&C Blue No. 1), Allura Red AC (E129/FD&C Red No. 40), Sunset Yellow FCF (E110/FD&C Yellow No. 6), and Indigo Carmine (E132/FD&C Blue No. 2). This review delves into the metabolic pathways and neurotoxicity mechanisms of each dye, highlighting their effects on oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses. The evidence suggests that these dyes can significantly impact brain function and overall neurological health. This review underscores the importance of continued research in this field, as it is crucial to fully comprehend the neurotoxic processes of synthetic food dyes and to inform regulatory decisions that are crucial for safeguarding public health.

Invisible enemies: evaluating human health threats of mosquito repellents through animal studies.

Mosquito-borne diseases continue to pose significant threats to human populations, especially in developing and underdeveloped regions, where access to effective preventive measures remains limited. Mosquito repellents represent a cornerstone in the arsenal against these diseases, providing a barrier against mosquito bites. Mosquito repellents come in various formulations, including topical ointments and commercial vaporizers, with varying compositions. Common constituents include deodorized kerosene (DOK) as a solvent, pyrethroids, amides, essential oils for fragrance, and synergists. Despite their widespread use, the toxicological profiles of these repellents remain inadequately understood, raising questions about their safety in prolonged or excessive exposure scenarios. However, while their efficacy in preventing mosquito-borne illnesses is well-established, concerns persist regarding their potential toxicity to humans and the environment. This review critically examines the existing literature on the toxicity of mosquito repellents, focusing on their adverse effects on human health and environmental sustainability. Through an extensive analysis of available research, this review aims to shed light on the potential health risks associated with mosquito repellents, such as dermatological irritation, respiratory complications, and allergic reactions in humans.

Bisphenol A-induced ovarian damage countered by luteolin: Experiments in in vitro CHO cells and in vivo PCOS phenotype zebrafish.

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a widely used chemical that can harm the human body, including the reproductive system. BPA accumulates in the body and is found in 95 % of individuals due to everyday exposure through food, water, and skin absorption. BPA can impair female fertility by interfering with ovarian folliculogenesis, inhibiting follicular growth, and inducing atresia, leading to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a prevalent endocrine disorder that affects many reproductive-aged women. While current treatments can help manage symptoms, they do not entirely prevent complications. Luteolin, a natural flavonoid with medicinal properties, is commonly used to treat metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Therefore, we evaluated Luteolin's properties against PCOS in Network pharmacology and molecular docking studies; further, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in protecting the Chinese Hamster ovarian (CHO) cells from Reactive Oxygen Species, cellular damage, and negative mitochondrial membrane potential were evaluated. Additionally, an in-vivo PCOS-like model was developed using zebrafish, and the localization of Luteolin was identified using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). Luteolin protected the CHO cells from cellular damage, ROS, and negative mitochondrial membrane potential. Luteolin alleviated the total SOD levels in the Zebrafish ovary, induced follicular maturation, and altered the key genes in ovarian proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1ß expression. Natural Phyto-oxidants such as Luteolin may protect follicular development and early PCOS in adult zebrafish to prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. This study suggests using Luteolin as a phytomedicine to alleviate ovarian function decline.

Parental (F0) exposure to Cadmium and Ketoprofen induces developmental deformities in offspring (F1): A transgenerational toxicity assessment in zebrafish model.

In the aquatic environment, the primary pollutants of heavy metals and pharmaceuticals always occur in coexisting forms, and the research about combined impacts remains unclear, especially transgenerational effects. Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that can damage the endocrine reproduction systems and cause thyroid dysfunction in fish. Meanwhile, ketoprofen (KPF) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause neurobehavioral damage and physiological impairment. However, to our knowledge, the combined exposure of Cd and KPF in transgenerational studies has not been reported. In this investigation, sexually mature zebrafish were subjected to isolated exposure and combined exposure to Cd (10 µg/L) and KPF (10 and 100 µg/L) at environmentally relevant concentrations for 42 days. In this background, breeding capacity, chemical accumulation rate in gonads, and tissue morphologies are investigated in parental fish. This is followed by examining the malformation rate, inflammation rate, and gene transcription in the F1 offspring. Our results indicate that combined exposure of Cd and KPF to the parental fish could increase the chemical accumulation rate and tissue damage in the gonads of fish and significantly reduce the breeding ability. Furthermore, these negative impacts were transmitted to its produced F1 embryos, reflected by hatching rate, body deformities, and thyroid axis-related gene transcription. These findings provide further insights into the harm posed by Cd in the presence of KPF to the aquatic ecosystems.

Comment on Maghsoudlou et al. Titled "Uveitis Associated with Monogenic Autoinflammatory Syndromes in Children".

The work by Maghsoudlou et al. provides a comprehensive examination of monogenic autoinflammatory syndromes (MAIS) in children, with a specific focus on uveitis as a significant clinical manifestation. It meticulously details the genetic underpinnings, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and current therapeutic strategies, including the use of biologics. This critique highlights the strengths of the review and suggests further exploration in areas such as long-term treatment outcomes, genotype-phenotype correlations, and the impact of MAIS on quality of life. Future research could benefit from longitudinal studies and enhanced predictive models to improve management and treatment personalization.

Is Laccase derived from Pleurotus ostreatus effective in microplastic degradation? A critical review of current progress, challenges, and future prospects.

Exploration of Pleurotus ostreatus as a biological agent in the degradation of persistent plastics like polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene terephthalate, revealing a promising avenue toward mitigating the environmental impacts of plastic pollution. Leveraging the intrinsic enzymatic capabilities of this fungus, mainly its production of laccase, presents a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to breaking down complex polymer chains into less harmful constituents. This review focused on enhancements in the strain's efficiency through genetic engineering, optimized culture conditions, and enzyme immobilization to underscore the potential for scalability and practical application of this bioremediation process. The utilization of laccase from P. ostreatus in plastic waste management demonstrates a vital step forward in pursuing sustainable environmental solutions. By using the potential of fungal bioremediation, researchers can move closer to a future in which the adverse effects of plastic pollution are significantly mitigated, benefiting the health of our planet and future generations.

Co-occurrence of azorubine and bisphenol A in beverages increases the risk of developmental toxicity: A study in zebrafish model.

The prevalent use of Azorubine (E122) and the unintentional food additive, Bisphenol A (BPA), in ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages raises significant health concerns, especially for children. The combined impact on embryonic development must be explored despite individual safety assessments. Our investigation revealed that the combined exposure of E122 and BPA at beverage concentration significantly induces mortality and morphological deformities, including reduced growth, pericardial edema, and yolk sac edema. The co-exposure triggers oxidative stress, impairing antioxidant enzyme responses and resulting in lipid and cellular damage. Notably, apoptotic cells are observed in the neural tube and notochord of the co-exposed larvae. Critical genes related to the antioxidant response elements (nrf2, ho1, and nqo1), apoptosis activation (bcl2, bax, and p53), and pro/anti-inflammatory cytokines (nfkb, tnfa, il1b, tgfb, il10, and il12) displayed substantial changes, highlighting the molecular mechanisms. Behavior studies indicated hypo-locomotion with reduced thigmotaxis and touch response in co-exposed larvae, distinguishing it from individual exposures. These findings underscore the neurodevelopmental impacts of E122 and BPA at reported beverage concentrations, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive safety assessments, particularly for child consumption.

Impact of climate change on the yield of medicinal plants in recent years.

Climate change significantly impacts the yield and quality of medicinal plants due to alterations in temperature, precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. These changes affect the growth, secondary metabolite production, and geographical distribution of medicinal plants, leading to reduced yields and compromised medicinal properties. Adaptive strategies such as developing climate-resilient plant varieties, sustainable agricultural practices, and enhanced conservation efforts are essential to mitigate these effects. Increased research and collaborative efforts are necessary to safeguard these vital resources for future generations.

Letter to Editor: Comment on Ioanna Tsioti et al "Systemic Lipopolysaccharide Exposure Exacerbates Choroidal Neovascularization in Mice".

This study by Ioanna Tsioti and colleagues delves into the exacerbation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) through systemic exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in a mouse model. The research highlights the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which systemic inflammation can influence ocular conditions, particularly in the context of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Utilizing a combination of in vivo fluorescein angiography, in situ hybridization, and flow cytometry, the study provides critical insights into the dynamic interaction between systemic inflammatory stimuli and CNV progression. Key findings include increased infiltration of monocyte-derived macrophages and enhanced Vegfα mRNA expression in Glul-expressing cells following systemic LPS exposure. These results suggest potential therapeutic targets for mitigating CNV associated with systemic inflammatory responses.

Letter to editor: Comment on "Clinical disease course and survival outcomes following disease recurrence in adenoid cystic carcinoma with and without NOTCH signaling pathway activation".

The study by Feeney et al. provides critical insights into the prognostic implications of NOTCH pathway activation in adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), particularly after disease recurrence. Utilizing both next-generation sequencing and immunohistochemistry, the research delineates the survival outcomes between NOTCH-activated and non-activated ACC groups, highlighting poorer outcomes in the former. The findings advocate for the targeted therapeutic approach and suggest a potential for personalized treatment strategies, emphasizing the need for further research into NOTCH pathway inhibitors and their clinical applications.

Artemisinin herbal combo breakers: navigating malaria treatment's double-edged sword.

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) have transformed malaria treatment, boasting high efficacy and tolerability. However, emerging resistance jeopardises their long-term effectiveness. ACTs' ability to target multiple parasite stages mitigates resistance risks, but severe malaria cases may require additional interventions. Research on combining ACTs with adjunctive therapies shows promise, but optimal regimens remain unclear. Vigilant resistance monitoring and innovative approaches are crucial to sustaining ACT efficacy. We highlight the ACTs' benefits, limitations, and potential synergies, emphasising the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat malaria's evolving challenges.

Cadmium and ketoprofen accumulation influences aquatic ecosystem demonstrated using in-vivo zebrafish model.

The growing concern about pollution and toxicity in aquatic as well as terrestrial organisms is predominantly caused due to waterborne exposure and poses a risk to environmental systems and human health. This study addresses the co-toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) and ketoprofen (KPF), representing heavy metal and pharmaceutical discharge pollutants, respectively, in aquatic ecosystems. A 96-h acute toxicity assessment was conducted using zebrafish embryos. The results indicated that high dosages of KPF (10, 15, and 100 µg/mL) and Cd (10 and 15 µg/mL) reduced survivability and caused concentration-dependent deformities such as scoliosis and yolk sac edema. These findings highlight the potential defects in development and metabolism, as evidenced by hemolysis tests demonstrating dose-dependent effects on blood cell integrity. Furthermore, this study employs adult zebrafish for a 42-day chronic exposure to Cd and KPF (10 and 100 µg/L) alone or combined (10 + 10 and 100 + 100 µg/L) to assess organ-specific Cd and KPF accumulation in tissue samples. Organ-specific accumulation patterns underscore complex interactions impacting respiratory, metabolic, and detoxification functions. Prolonged exposure induces reactive oxygen species formation, compromising antioxidant defense systems. Histological examinations reveal structural changes in gills, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver tissues, suggesting impairments in respiratory, osmoregulatory, nutritional, and immune functions. This study emphasizes the importance of conducting extensive research on co-toxic effects to assist with environmental risk assessments and safeguard human health and aquatic ecosystems.