Mechanistic insights into Retama raetam's anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in A549 lung cancer cells: targeting PI3K/Akt pathway and ROS production.

Lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the anti-cancer effects of the tropical desert plant Retama raetam (R. raetam) on the A549 NSCLC cell line. The research examined R. raetam's anti-proliferative effects, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell morphology in NSCLC A549 and L-132 cells. In addition, the influence of R. raetam on DNA fragmentation, apoptotic signaling, and PI3K/Akt pathways for its anti-cancer mechanism was examined. Our results indicated that R. raetam's effects were dose- and time-dependent to exhibit anti-proliferative effects on A549 cells. R. raetam treatment promoted apoptotic cell death cycle arrest, increased apoptotic cells, depolarized the mitochondrial membrane, and induced morphological alterations in cells and nuclei. It also inhibited A549 cell migration (P < 0.05), colonization, and invasiveness. Moreover, the study demonstrated that R. raetam treatment resulted in the upregulation of Bax expression, downregulation of Bcl-2 expression, and apoptotic fragmented DNA in A549 cells. The top five bioactive compounds derived from R. raetam exhibited molecular interactions that inhibit PIK3CA and AKT1. This inhibition leads to an increased frequency of apoptosis and subsequent death of cancer cells. Additionally, R. raetam extract induced an increase in ROS formation and cytochrome c levels, indicating that its toxic effects on A549 cells involve both ROS-dependent cytotoxicity through the disruption of mitochondrial transmembrane potential ΔΨm and ROS-independent cell cycle arrest through downregulation BCL-2, PARP, E-Cadherin, PI3K, and Akt expressions pathways.

The arsenic bioremediation using genetically engineered microbial strains on aquatic environments: An updated overview.

Heavy metal contamination threatens the aquatic environment and human health. Different physical and chemical procedures have been adopted in many regions; however, their adoption is usually limited since they take longer time, are more expensive, and are ineffective in polluted areas with high heavy metal contents. Thus, biological remediation is considered a suitable applicable method for treating contaminates due to its aquatic-friendly features. Bacteria possess an active metabolism that enables them to thrive and develop in highly contaminated water bodies with arsenic (As). They achieve this by utilizing their genetic structure to selectively target As and deactivate its toxic influences. Therefore, this review extensively inspects the bacterial reactions and interactions with As. In addition, this literature demonstrated the potential of certain genetically engineered bacterial strains to upregulate the expression and activity of specific genes associated with As detoxification. The As resistant mechanisms in bacteria exhibit significant variation depending on the genetics and type of the bacterium, which is strongly affected by the physical water criteria of their surrounding aquatic environment. Moreover, this literature has attempted to establish scientific connections between existing knowledge and suggested sustainable methods for removing As from aquatic bodies by utilizing genetically engineered bacterial strains. We shall outline the primary techniques employed by bacteria to bioremediate As from aquatic environments. Additionally, we will define the primary obstacles that face the wide application of genetically modified bacterial strains for As bioremediation in open water bodies. This review can serve as a target for future studies aiming to implement real-time bioremediation techniques. In addition, potential synergies between the bioremediation technology and other techniques are suggested, which can be employed for As bioremediation.

Characterization and antioxidant activity of nano-formulated berberine and cyperus rotundus extracts with anti-inflammatory effects in mastitis-induced rats.

Bovine mastitis caused by infectious pathogens, mainly Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), constitutes a major destructive challenge for the dairy industry and public health. Berberine chloride (BER) and Cyperus rotundus possess a broad spectrum of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiproliferative activities; however, their bioavailability is low. This research aimed first to prepare an ethanolic extract of Cyperus rotundus rhizomes (CRE) followed by screening its phytochemical contents, then synthesis of BER and CRE loaded chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) (BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs), afterward, the analysis of their loading efficiency in addition to the morphological and physicochemical characterization of the formulated NPs employing Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Zeta Potential (ZP), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) assessments compared to their crude forms to evaluate the enhancement of bioavailability and stability. Isolation of bacterial strains from the milk of mastitic cows, used for induction of mammary gland (MG) inflammation in female albino rats, and a preliminary investigation of the prophylactic oral doses of the prepared NPs against S. aureus-induced mastitis in female rats. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs is 1 mg/kg b.w. BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs alone or in combination show significant (P ≤ 0.05) DPPH radical scavenging activity (69.2, 88.5, and 98.2%, respectively) in vitro. Oral administration of BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs to mastitis rats significantly (P ≤ 0.05) attenuated TNF-α (22.1, 28.6 pg/ml), IL-6 (33.4, 42.9 pg/ml), IL-18 (21.7, 34.7 pg/ml), IL-4 (432.9, 421.6 pg/ml), and MPO (87.1, 89.3 pg/ml) compared to mastitis group alongside the improvement of MG histopathological findings without any side effect on renal and hepatic functions. Despite promising results with BER and CRE nanoparticles, the study is limited by small-scale trials, a focus on acute administration, and partially explored nanoparticle-biological interactions, with no economic or scalability assessments. Future research should address these limitations by expanding trial scopes, exploring interactions further, extending study durations, and assessing economic and practical scalability. Field trials and regulatory compliance are also necessary to ensure practical application and safety in the dairy industry. In conclusion, the in vitro and in vivo results proved the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy of BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs in low doses with minimal damage to the liver and kidney functions, supposing their promising uses in mastitis treatment.

Mitigating Acetaminophen-Induced Kidney Injury: The Protective Role of Grape Seed and Peanut Skin Extracts through the iNOS/CYP2E1 Pathway.

The rising number of acute kidney injury cases worldwide due to acetaminophen (APAP) emphasizes the critical need for effective prevention strategies to counteract APAP's detrimental effects. This study examined the kidney-protective capabilities of ethanolic extracts from grape seeds and peanut skins (GSEE and PSEE, respectively) in comparison with silymarin in rats that experienced an APAP overdose. The phenolic compounds in these extracts were measured by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In the experiment, Sixty adult male albino rats were divided into five groups of 12. The Control group received 0.5 mL of saline via a gastric tube. Group II received acetaminophen (APAP, 640 mg/kg per day via a gastric tube) to induce renal injury, following Ucar et al. and Islam et al. Groups III, IV, and V received silymarin (50 mg/kg), grape seed extract (200 mg/kg), and peanut skin extract (200 mg/kg), respectively, along with 640 mg of APAP/kg per day for 21 days. Post APAP treatment, significant increases in serum urea and creatinine levels were noted, along with notable decreases in the percentage of body weight gain. Furthermore, there were increases in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the kidney tissues, including heightened mRNA expressions of renal iNOS and CYP2E1, which were confirmed through histological studies. The administration of GSEE, PSEE, and silymarin mitigated these adverse effects, likely due to their high phenolic content, which is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. GSEE, in particular, showed efficacy comparable to that of silymarin. Molecular docking studies revealed that APAP impeded critical enzymes essential for cellular antioxidant defense, whereas the bioactive compounds in the grape seed and peanut skin extracts effectively inhibited key enzymes and receptors involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that GSEE and PSEE could serve as viable alternative treatments for kidney damage induced by APAP. Further research to isolate and identify these effective compounds is recommended.

Harnessing the power of bee venom for therapeutic and regenerative medical applications: an updated review.

Honeybees have been helpful insects since ancient centuries, and this benefit is not limited to being a honey producer only. After the bee stings a person, pain, and swelling occur in this place, due to the effects of bee venom (BV). This is not a poison in the total sense of the word because it has many benefits, and this is due to its composition being rich in proteins, peptides, enzymes, and other types of molecules in low concentrations that show promise in the treatment of numerous diseases and conditions. BV has also demonstrated positive effects against various cancers, antimicrobial activity, and wound healing versus the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Even though topical BV therapy is used to varying degrees among countries, localized swelling or itching are common side effects that may occur in some patients. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the complex chemical composition of BV, highlighting the diverse range of bioactive compounds and their therapeutic applications, which extend beyond the well-known anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, showcasing the versatility of BV in modern medicine. A specific search strategy was followed across various databases; Web of sciences, Scopus, Medline, and Google Scholar including in vitro and in vivo clinical studies.to outline an overview of BV composition, methods to use, preparation requirements, and Individual consumption contraindications. Furthermore, this review addresses safety concerns and emerging approaches, such as the use of nanoparticles, to mitigate adverse effects, demonstrating a balanced and holistic perspective. Importantly, the review also incorporates historical context and traditional uses, as well as a unique focus on veterinary applications, setting it apart from previous works and providing a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field.

Palm kernel meal regulates the expression of genes involved in the amino acid metabolism in the liver of Tibetan sheep.

BACKGROUND: Palm kernel meal (PKM) is a by-product of oil palm kernel after oil extraction, which is widely used in animal feeds due to its high energy content. This study aimed to investigate the impact of supplementing Tibetan sheep with PKM on their hepatic phenotype, oxidative stress and immune response. A total of 120 Tibetan lambs (Initial weight = 12.37 ± 0.92 kg) were randomly assigned into four groups: control group (C group, 0% PKM diet), low group (L group, 15% PKM diet), middle group (M group, 18% PKM diet), and high group (H group, 21% PKM diet) on a dry matter basis. The feeding experiment was performed for 130 d, including a 10 d adaption period. RESULTS: Results showed that the level of GSH-Px were higher in the H and M groups than in the C and L groups (P < 0.05). The levels of IgM and TNF-α were higher in the M group when compared to those on the C group (P < 0.05). The level of IgA was significantly higher in the M group than in the H group (P < 0.05). Additionally, compared with the others groups, the hepatocytes in the M group displayed a radial arrangement, forming hepatic plates that were centered around the central vein. The transcriptome results revealed that proteasome 26 S subunit, ATPase 3 (PSMC3), proteasome 26 S subunit, ATPase 5 (PSMC5), proteasome 26 S subunit ubiquitin receptor, non-ATPase 4 (PSMD4), proteasome activator subunit 1 (PSME1), acyl-CoA dehydrogenase short/branched chain (ACADSB), enoyl-CoA hydratase, short chain 1 (ECHS1), serine dehydratase (SDS), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) were the hub genes regulating the amino acid metabolism in the liver. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, dietary 18% PMK supplementation contributed to improve the hepatic phenotype, oxidative stress and immune response through regulating the expression of related genes.

Effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma on the fertility and quality of cryopreserved buffalo bull semen: a comparative study using OptiXcell® and tris egg yolk extenders.

BACKGROUND: Buffalo spermatozoa have a distinct membrane structure that makes them more vulnerable to cryopreservation, resulting in lower-quality post-thawed sperm. This decreases the success rate of artificial insemination in buffaloes. Understanding and addressing these specific vulnerabilities are essential for improving reproductive techniques in buffalo populations. The properties of cryopreserved buffalo bull semen were examined in this study regarding the impact of adding autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to OptiXcell® or Tris egg yolk-based extenders. Ten buffalo bulls were used to collect semen. Each bull's ejaculate was separated into two main equal amounts, each of which was then diluted with either OptiXcell® or Tris egg yolk-based extender, supplemented with various PRP concentrations (5%, 10%, and 15%), and the control (0%), before being cryopreserved according to established protocols. Following equilibration and thawing, the quality and functionality of the sperm were evaluated, along with the antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH and TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and in vivo fertilization rate of the thawed semen. RESULTS: All PRP concentrations in both extenders, particularly 10% PRP, improved the quality and functionality of the sperm in both equilibrated and frozen-thawed semen. Additionally, the antioxidant enzyme activities in both extenders were higher in the PRP-supplemented groups compared to the control group in thawed semen (P < 0.05). All post-thaw sperm quality, antioxidant enzyme activities, and functionality aside from DNA integrity were higher (P < 0.05) in the PRP-supplemented OptiXcell® than in the PRP-supplemented Tris egg yolk-based extender. The fertility of cryopreserved semen in the extenders supplemented with 10% and 15% PRP increased (P < 0.05) significantly more than that of the control extenders, with 10% PRP being the optimum concentration in OptiXcell® (80%) compared to that of Tris egg yolk-based extender (66.67%) and control of two extenders (53.33% and 46.67%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Even though autologous PRP-supplemented extenders have a protective impact on equilibrated and cryopreserved semen, 10% PRP-supplemented OptiXcell® extenders are more effective at preserving post-thaw semen quality, functionality, and antioxidant capacity, which increases the in vivo fertility of buffalo bulls.

Cinnamon nanoemulsion mitigates acetamiprid-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats: biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular docking analysis.

Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels.Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

Exploring the NRF2/HO-1 and NF-κB Pathways: Spirulina Nanoparticles as a Novel Approach to Combat Diabetic Nephropathy.

Arthrospira platensis has been the subject of plentiful studies due to its purported health advantages; nevertheless, additional investigation is required to determine whether several chronic diseases may be treated or avoided with its nanoform. Therefore, we set out to examine A. platensis nanoparticles (SNPs) to protect against kidney impairment caused by Streptozotocin (STZ) in diabetic rats, precisely focusing on its effect and the cellular intracellular pathways involved. Male Wistar rats were assigned into four groups: Group 1 was set as control, comprising the normal rats; group 2 was administered SNPs (0.5 mg/kg BW, once/day) orally for 84 consecutive days; group 3, STZ-diabetic rats were injected with STZ (65 mg/kg BW); and group 4, in which the diabetic rats were treated with SNPs. After inducing diabetes in rats for 84 days, the animals were euthanized. The results disclosed that SNP treatment substantially (P < 0.05) improved the glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c %), insulin, C-peptide, and cystatin C deterioration in diabetic rats. Furthermore, SNP administration significantly lowered (P < 0.05) nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in renal tissue and enhanced kidney function metrics, as well as improved the antioxidant capacity of the renal tissue. In addition, oral SNPs overcame the diabetic complications concerning diabetic nephropathy, indicated by downregulation and upregulation of apoptotic and antiapoptotic genes, respectively, along with prominent modulation of the antiangiogenic marker countenance level, improving kidney function. SNP modulated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 (NRF2/HO-1) pathways and inhibited the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) expression, strengthening the SNP pathways in alleviating diabetic nephropathy. The histopathology results corroborated the obtained biochemical and molecular observations, suggesting the therapeutic potential of SNPs in diabetic nephropathy via mechanisms other than its significant antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects, including modulation of antiangiogenic and inflammatory mediators and the NRF2/HO-1 pathways.

Morphomolecular characterization of invasive fruit borer infesting apple.

Apple, a vital fruit crop worldwide and a major crop grown in northern parts of India, acts as a backbone for the survival and livelihood of the farming community. However, it is prone to severe damage from insect pests and diseases. In the past few years, due to erratic weather patterns, there has been an alarmingly increased infestation of different insect pests, both invasive and non-invasive, resulting in substantial economic losses to this industry. One similar case was seen in the Himalayan region of India, where the apple crop in Karewas was heavily damaged by some invasive fruit borer, feeding on pulp and making galleries to reach the seed locules, thereby destroying the seed material. To ascertain the true identity of this pest, a study based on morpho-molecular characterization of this pest was carried out in the Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, SKUAST Kashmir, India, during the years 2021 and 2022. The invasive fruit samples were collected from apple orchards at different locations (experimental sites) in North India by installing delta sticky traps @ 5 traps/ha for moth collection. The fruit-boring larvae and pupa were also collected and reared in confined chambers of the laboratory with controlled temperature and humidity. All the laboratory investigations were conducted at the Division of Entomology, FoA, Wadura, SKUAST Kashmir. During the investigation, it was confirmed that the invasive borer is a codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.), a member of the family Tortricidae, order Lepidoptera, which was earlier having quarantine importance in India, as it was only present in the Ladakh region of India. From the phylogenetic analysis of sample sequences, the species of codling moth present at all experimental sites was more identical to the codling moth sequence from Leh (the northernmost arid region), India. Further, the study of life cycle and voltinism revealed that codling moth completes three generations per year in Kashmir, with a single cycle lasting up to 2.5 months. However, the timing of various generations varies, depending on prevailing weather conditions at specific locations and times. The number of generations completed by codling moth in Kashmir conditions during apple growing season was three full and a half overwintering generations. The study of the life cycle of this important pest was necessary to know the weak link for its effective management and to prevent the economic loss in apple fruit.

Enhancing immune and antioxidant responses in Nile tilapia through dietary supplementation with Ulva fasciata extract: A study on gene expression and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila.

BACKGROUND: The study focused on the impact of Ulva fasciata extract (UFE) supplementation in the diets of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) on blood and biochemical markers, immune and oxidative responses, and the expression of related genes, with a specific interest in their condition following exposure to Aeromonas hydrophila. METHODS: Four different levels of UFE were tested in the diets: 0% (0 mg kg- 1) for the control group (U0), and incremental additions of 0.05% (50 mg kg-1), 0.1% (100 mg kg-1), and 0.15% (150 mg kg-1) for the experimental groups U50, U100, and U150 respectively. Groups of 45 fish weighing 3.126 ± 0.120 g were fed these diets over 90 days. RESULTS: The study found that groups treated with UFE showed statistically significant enhancements (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. These improvements included increased red and white blood cell counts, higher haemoglobin concentrations, greater packed cell volume, and elevated enzyme activities-specifically, superoxide dismutase, catalase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase. Additionally, lysozyme and phagocytic activities were notably higher, especially in the U100 group after exposure. Before exposure to Aeromonas hydrophila, all levels of UFE supplementation led to increased expression of TNF-α and COXII genes and decreased NFκ-B expression. After the challenge, UFE intake resulted in varied expression levels of immune and antioxidant genes (TNF-α, NFκ-B, SOD, and COXII) in the liver, with the most effective responses observed in the U50, U100, and U150 groups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings underscore the potential of dietary UFE as a natural antioxidant and immune booster for Nile tilapia.

Probiotic Efficacy in Aquaculture: The Role of Technospore® (Bacillus coagulans) in Improving Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Performance and Disease Resistance: a Study on Gut Health, Immunological Response, and Gene Expression.

This study evaluated the effects of Technospore® (Bacillus coagulans) supplementation on intestinal health, immune response, and Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) growth performance. The experiment divided fish into four groups: a control group fed an unsupplemented diet and three experimental groups receiving diets supplemented with 0.2 g/kg, 0.4 g/kg, and 0.8 g/kg of Technospore®, respectively. Results indicated that Technospore® supplementation significantly enhanced growth rates and feed efficiency in all treated groups, with the most pronounced improvements observed in the group receiving 0.4 g/kg. Furthermore, the study revealed that B. coagulans supplementation markedly boosted serum immune responses, as evidenced by increased phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and lysozyme levels, following a challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila. Histological analysis showed improved gut morphology, while gene expression analysis indicated upregulation of immune-related genes, including liver IGF-1, GHR, HSP70, IL-1ß, and TNF-α, as well as spleen TNF-α and IL-1ß and intestinal C-lysozyme and TNF-α, both before and after the bacterial challenge. These findings suggest that dietary inclusion of Technospore® can significantly improve gut health and immune responses in tilapia, potentially serving as an effective prophylactic alternative to antibiotics in aquaculture.

Protective effect of Petroselinum crispum methanolic extract against acrylamide-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats through NF-ĸB, kinesin, steroidogenesis pathways.

This study examined the protective effects of a Petroselinum crispum (P. crispum) methanolic extract on reproductive dysfunction induced by acrylamide in male rats. A total of 40 rats were divided into four groups (n=10). The control group received distilled water, the acrylamide group received 10 mg/kg of acrylamide, the P. crispum group received 100 mg/kg of P. crispum extract, and the combined group was pretreated with P. crispum for two weeks before co-administration of P. crispum and acrylamide. All administrations were administered orally using a gastric tube for eight weeks. Acrylamide decreased testosterone levels but did not affect levels of FSH or LH. It also increased testicular levels of (MDA) malondialdehyde and reduced activity of (SOD) superoxide dismutase and impairment of sperm parameters. Furthermore, the administration of acrylamide resulted in an elevation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels and a reduction in the levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR) and cytochrome P450scc (P450scc). Acrylamide negatively affected the histopathological outcomes, Johnsen's score, the diameter of seminiferous tubules, and the thickness of the germinal epithelium. It also upregulated the expression of NF-ĸB P65 and downregulated the expression of kinesin motor protein. In contrast, treatment with P. crispum extract restored the levels of antioxidant enzymes, improved sperm parameters, and normalized the gene expression of TNF-α, IL-10, IL-6, iNOS, NF-ĸB, STAR, CYP17A1, 17ß-HSD and P450scc. It also recovered testicular histological parameters and immunoexpression of NF-ĸB P65 and kinesin altered by acrylamide. P. crispum showed protective effects against acrylamide-induced reproductive toxicity by suppressing oxidative damage and inflammatory pathways.

Lignocellulose and probiotic supplementation in broiler chicken diet: effect on growth performance, digestive health, litter quality, and genes expression.

Three hundred one-day-old Avian 48 broiler chicks were used to investigate the effect of lignocellulose (LC) and probiotic supplementation in broiler chicken diet on growth performance, digestive health, litter quality, and some gene expression. Experimental treatments consisted of 3 × 2 factorial arrangements with 3 levels of LC without or with probiotics to formulate 6 experimental groups. Groups 1, 2, and 3 were fed on the basal diet with dietary LC inclusion at 0, 0.5, and 1.0%, respectively, while groups 4, 5, and 6 were fed on the previously mentioned design with Bacillus subtilis at 100 gm/ton. The results revealed that Dietary LC inclusion nonsignificantly (P ≥ 0.05) reduced body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), and feed intake. Meanwhile, B. subtilis supplementation improved BW and BWG and enhanced the effect of LC on the broilers' weight. The group fed a 0.5% LC and B. subtilis-supplemented diet recorded the best (P ≥ 0.05) BW, BWG, FCR, PER, EEU, and PI. LC and or B. subtilis supplementation improved carcass traits of broiler (higher dressing% with lower abdominal fat% compared with a control group), intestinal health, and absorptive capacity. LC potentiates the effect of B. subtilis supplementation in broilers' diet in modulating intestinal microflora (lowered (P ≥ 0.05) cecal Coliform and increased Lactobacillus counts), the highest Coliform counts were recorded in group fed 0.5 or 1.0% LC plus B. subtilis. LC at 0.5 or 1.0% and or B. subtilis supplementation reduced (P ≥ 0.05) litter moisture% at the 2nd, 4th, and 6th wk compared to the control group. Dietary inclusion of LC and or B. subtilis supplementation significantly (P < 0.001) up-regulated hepatic growth-related genes (growth hormone receptor (GHR) and insulin growth factor1 (IGF-1)) and antioxidant-related genes (superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) and uncoupling protein (UCP) and down-regulated (P < 0.001) splenic toll-like receptor 4 (TLRP) gene expression while had no significant effect on splenic interleukin 8 (IL8) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) with the best-obtained results with 1.0% followed by 0.5% LC with B. subtilis supplementation. We concluded that dietary LC and/or B. subtilis supplementation positively affected the growth performance, feed efficiency, carcass quality, intestinal absorptive capacity and health, litter quality and growth, and antioxidant and immune-related gene expression.

Screening impacts of Tilmicosin-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats: protection by Rhodiola rosea extract through the involvement of oxidative stress, antioxidants, and inflammatory cytokines biomarkers.

Tilmicosin (TIL) is a semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic with a broad spectrum of activity derived from tylosin. TIL is effective in the treatment of bovine and ovine respiratory diseases caused by different microbes. In parallel, Rhodiola rosea (RHO) is a popular herbal remedy because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. The experiment lasted for 12 days. Depending on the experimental group, the animals received either distilled water or RHO root extract dissolved in distilled water for 12 days through a stomach tube, and the single subcutaneous injection on day 6 of the experiment of either 500 µL of 0.9% NaCl or TIL dissolved in 500 µL 0.9% NaCl. Samples and blood were collected for serum analysis, gene expression, and immunohistochemistry screening at liver and kidney levels. TIL injection increased serum levels of hepatic and renal markers (ALP, ALT, AST, TC, TG, creatinine, and urea) with decreased total proteins. In parallel, TIL induced hepatic and renal oxidative stress as there was an increase in malondialdehyde levels, with a decrease in catalase and reduced glutathione activities. Of interest, pre-administration of RHO inhibited TIL-induced increase in hepato-renal markers, decreased oxidative stress, and increased liver and kidney antioxidant activities. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that TIL increased the liver's HSP70 (heat shock protein), NFkB, and TNF-α mRNA expression. Moreover, TIL upregulated the expression of desmin, nestin, and vimentin expression in the kidney. The upregulated genes were decreased significantly in the protective group that received RHO. Serum inflammatory cytokines and genes of inflammatory markers were affected in liver tissues (HSP70, NFkB, and TNF-α) and kidney tissues (desmin, nestin, and vimentin)-TIL-induced hepatic vacuolation and congestion together with glomerular atrophy. The immunoreactivity of PCNA and HMGB1 was examined immunohistochemically. At cellular levels, PCNA was decreased while HMGB1 immunoreactivity was increased in TIL-injected rats, which was improved by pre-administration of RHO. RHO administration protected the altered changes in liver and renal histology. Current findings support the possible use of RHO to shield the liver and kidney from the negative effects of tilmicosin.

Impact of Sel-Plex® dietary supplementation on growth performance, physiological response, oxidative status, and immunity-linked gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila.

Background: Organic selenium (Sel-Plex®) supplementation holds considerable promise for improving the effectiveness of fish production. Aim: This experiment was accomplished to judge the potential benefits of Sel-Plex® nutritional additive on growth outcomes, physiological response, oxidative status, and immunity-linked gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings exposed to bacterial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Methods: Utilizing a basal diet of 30% protein, four experimental diets were prepared, each of which contained Sel-Plex® at concentrations of 0.0, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg, respectively. Three replicates of 20 fish/treatment were used using 240 healthy Nile tilapia fingerlings. Fish were placed in 12 glass aquariums and separated into 4 groups at random. For the entire span of 8 weeks, diets were admitted to fish at a 3% rate of fish biomass/aquarium. After the feeding trial, pathogenic A. hydrophila was intraperitoneally injected into fish of each treatment, and fish were observed for 15 days to track the survival rate (SR) after the challenge. Results: Growth performance, physiological response, immunological parameters (phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and lysozyme), and antioxidant parameters [catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were noticeably improved in Sel-Plex® treated groups. Moreover, Sel-Plex® increased gene expression linked with the immune system in the liver (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin 1ß), to growth (insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth hormone receptor), and antioxidants (SOD and GPx). Under pathogen-challenge conditions, the employed dietary Sel-Plex® supplementation could successfully lower fish oxidative stress, offering a potential preventive additive for Nile tilapia instead of antibiotics. On the other hand, Sel-Plex® significantly enhanced each of three intestinal morphological measurements (villus width, villus length, and crypt depth), demonstrating the greatest influence on the improvement of intestinal structure overall. In the Nile tilapia control group, the infection with A. hydrophila caused noticeable degenerative alterations in the gut, hepatopancreas, spleen, and posterior kidney. The severity of the lesion was significantly reduced and significantly improved with higher Sel-Plex® concentrations. Sel-Plex® supplemented groups had 100% SRs among the A. hydrophila-challenged groups. Conclusion: It could be advised to enrich the diets of Nile tilapia fingerlings with 1-2 mg.kg-1 of Sel-Plex® to enhance growth rate, physiological response, immunological reaction, and intestinal absorptive capacity.

Effects of the putative probiotics Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus subtilis on white leg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, immune response, gut histology, water quality, and growth performance.

Background: A commercially significant species in the aquaculture sector globally, particularly in Egypt, is Litopenaeus vannamei. Aim: The experiment's objective was to ascertain how Sanolife PRO-F impacted the growth, water quality, immunological response, and intestinal morphometry of L. vannamei. Methods: In the current investigation, which lasted 12 weeks, Sanolife PRO-F was administered to shrimp post-larvae at diet doses of 0 (control), 1 (group one), 2 (group two), and 3 (group three) g/kg diet, respectively. Each experimental group had three repetitions. Results: In the current study, shrimp fed on probiotic-treated diets showed a considerable improvement in growth performance measures and survival rate, and the nonspecific immune response was also enhanced. Shrimp fed probiotic diets had longer and more intestinal villi overall. Shrimp fed on the G2 and G3 diets showed no appreciable differences in growth or intestinal morphology. With the G2 and G3 diet, the water had lower concentrations of nitrite and ammonia. Conclusion: The study's findings indicate that Sanolife PRO-F treatment at 2-3 g/kg feed promotes the growth of shrimp, immunological response, gut health and function, and water quality.

Ameliorative effect of BIO-MOS® as a dietary supplementation on growth performance, physiological response, oxidative status, and immunity-linked gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila.

Background: Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) usage in fish production has drawn more attention because of their positive benefits on disease resistance and fish performance. Aim: The ongoing research was executed to assess the potential advantages of Bio-Mos® dietary supplementation regarding the growth outcomes, physiological response, oxidative biomarkers, and immunity-linked gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings exposed to bacterial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Methods: Four experimental diets were developed using a 30% protein baseline diet, with Bio-Mos® added at variable levels; 0.0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg, respectively. 240 healthy Nile tilapia fingerlings were split into 4 groups at random and assigned to 12 glass aquariums (three replicates of 20 fish/treatment). Diets were admitted at a 3% rate of fish biomass/aquarium for 8 weeks. Following the feeding trial, fish from every treatment were intraperitoneally injected with pathogenic A. hydrophila, and then observed for 15 days to record the survival rate percent (SR%) post challenge. Results: Results revealed significant improvement in growth performance, physiological response, immunological parameters (phagocytic index, phagocytic activity, and lysozyme), and antioxidant parameters [catalase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] among Bio-Mos® treated groups. Moreover, Bio-Mos® increased the expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha and Interleukin 1ß, genes linked to the liver immune system. Growth-related genes (GHr), antioxidant-related genes (SOD and GSH-Px). In fish subjected to pathogens, dietary MOS supplementation could significantly lower oxidative stress, showing promise as a preventative supplement for Nile tilapia in place of antibiotics. On the other hand, Bio-Mos® considerably improved each of the three intestinal morphological measures (villus width, villus length, and crypt depth), showing the best overall intestinal structure-improving impact. The challenge with A. hydrophila caused marked degenerative alterations in the intestine, hepatopancreas, spleen, and posterior kidney of Nile tilapia, in the control group. However, lesion severity was greatly decreased and showed marked amelioration with an increased concentration of Bio-Mos®. The A. hydrophila-challenged groups revealed a 100% SR% mainly among the Bio-Mos® supplemented groups. Conclusion: It is recommended to enrich the Nile tilapia fingerlings diets with 2 g.kg-1 of MOS for better results on the growth rate, physiological response, immunological response, and intestinal absorptive capacity.

Evaluating estrus synchronization and early pregnancy detection in Ossimi sheep: The influence of fluorogestone acetate treatment duration and dosage.

Estrus synchronization is important for improving sheep reproduction. To enhance sheep reproduction efficiency, this study investigated the impact of different durations (7 vs. 14 days) and fluorogestone acetate (FGA) doses in intravaginal sponges on estrus synchronization and early pregnancy detection in Ossimi sheep. Two hundred ewes were evenly divided into two groups, each receiving a full 40 mg or a halved 20 mg FGA sponge for their respective durations. The study aimed to optimize breeding efficiency by examining the effectiveness of these treatments in synchronizing estrous cycles and by evaluating the use of serum levels of pregnancy-associated glycoprotein 1 (PAG1) and progesterone (P4) as markers for early pregnancy identification. Prostaglandin F2α and equine chorionic gonadotropin were administered to enhance the synchronization process. Results highlighted that the 7-day treatment protocol significantly improved estrus, pregnancy, and lambing rates compared to the 14-day protocol. Furthermore, pregnant ewes demonstrated elevated levels of PAG1 and P4, with PAG1 levels particularly higher in ewes with multiple pregnancies. The findings underscore that the shorter duration of FGA treatment is more effective for reproductive management in Ossimi sheep without significantly affecting PAG1 levels based on the dose or duration of FGA. PAG1 also proved to be a reliable marker for early pregnancy detection, offering a promising approach to identifying fetal numbers early in pregnancy. This research suggests optimizing FGA sponge use could be cost-efficient for improving reproductive efficiency and early pregnancy management in sheep.