Targeted metabolic profiling of the revived ancient 'Corbella' olive cultivar during early maturation.

'Corbella' is an ancient olive cultivar whose cultivation has recently been revived and hence little is known about its composition. This is the first work studying the metabolic profile of 'Corbella' olives during early maturation. Olives with a ripening index (RI) < 1 yielded considerably less oil content (<40%) but had more concentration of phenolic compounds (148.41-219.70 mg/kg), carotenoids (9.61-14.94 mg/kg) and squalene (521.41-624.40 mg/kg). Contrarily, the levels of α-tocopherol were higher at the RI of 1.08 and 1.96 (64.57 and 57.75 mg/kg, respectively). The most abundant phenolic compound was oleuropein aglycone (>50% of the phenolic composition), suggesting a high hydrolytic activity of ß-glucosidase in the fruit. The antioxidant capacity was barely affected, while oleic/linoleic ratio reached its highest at RI of 1.96. Therefore, olives with an RI below 2 could be good candidates to produce high-quality olive oils with good level of stability.

Opportunities and challenges in enhancing the bioavailability and bioactivity of dietary flavonoids: A novel delivery system perspective.

Flavonoids have multiple favorable bioactivities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor. Currently, flavonoid-containing dietary supplements are widely tested in clinical trials for the prevention and/or treatment of multiple diseases. However, the clinical application of flavonoids is largely compromised by their low bioavailability and bioactivity, probably due to their poor aqueous solubility, intensive metabolism, and low systemic absorption. Therefore, formulating flavonoids into novel delivery systems is a promising approach for overcoming these drawbacks. In this review, we highlight the opportunities and challenges in the clinical use of dietary flavonoids from the perspective of novel delivery systems. First, the classification, sources, and bioactivity of dietary flavonoids are described. Second, the progress of clinical research on flavonoid-based dietary supplements is systematically summarized. Finally, novel delivery systems developed to improve the bioavailability and bioactivity of flavonoids are discussed in detail to broaden the clinical application of dietary flavonoids.

Untargeted metabolomics analysis of non-volatile metabolites and dynamic changes of antioxidant capacity in Douchi with edible mushroom by-products.

This study investigated the non-volatile metabolites and antioxidant activity of Douchi, an edible mushroom by-product. A total of 695 non-volatile metabolites were detected using UPLC-MS/MS-based metabolomics analysis, and the greatest impact on metabolite composition was observed during Koji-making and the first 5 days of post-fermentation. Throughout the fermentation process, 366 differential metabolites were identified, with flavonoids being the most prominent followed by amino acids and their derivatives, which were found to be important for the quality of edible mushroom by-product Douchi (EMD). The antioxidant capacity of EMD significantly increased with the longer fermentation time, which might be associated with the conversion of isoflavone glycosides to aglycones, amino acids and their derivatives, free fatty acids, group A saponins, and phenolic acids. These findings suggested that different fermentation phases of EMD significantly affected the non-volatile metabolite profile and antioxidant capacity.

Foliar application of triacontanol ameliorates heat stress through regulation of the antioxidant defense system and improves yield of eggplant / Title in the second language of the article: Amelioration of heat stress in egg plant through application of tricontanol

Abstract Transplanting time and genotype contribute to improving crop yield and quality of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). A field experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of foliar applied of triacontanol (TRIA) and eggplant genotypes 25919, Nirala, 28389 and Pak-10927,transplanted on 1 March,15 March, and 1 April on exposure to high air temperature conditions. The experiment was performed according to Randomized Complete Block Design and the data was analyzed by using Tuckey,s test . The TRIA was applied at 10µM at flowering stage; distilled water was used as the control. Rate of photosynthesis and transpiration, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency, and effects on antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase) were evaluated. The 10µM TRIA increased photosynthesis rate and water use efficiency and yield was improved in all genotypes transplanted at the different dates. Foliar application of 10µM TRIA increased antioxidative enzyme activities (SOD, POD & CAT) and improved physiological as well as biochemical attributes of eggplant genotypes exposed to high heat conditions. Highest activity of dismutase enzyme 5.41mg/1g FW was recorded in Nirala genotype in second transplantation. Whereas, lowest was noted in PAK-10927 (2.30mg/g FW). Maximum fruit yield was found in accession 25919 (1.725kg per plant) at 1st transplantation with Triacontanol, whereas accession PAK-10927 gave the lowest yield (0.285 kg per plant) at control treatment on 3rd transplantation. Genotype, transplanting date and application of TRIA improved growth, yield and quality attributes under of heat stress in eggplant.

Resumo O tempo de transplante e o genótipo contribuem para melhorar a produtividade e a qualidade da cultura da berinjela (Solanum melongena L.). Um experimento de campo foi conduzido para investigar o impacto da aplicação foliar de triacontanol (TRIA) e genótipos de berinjela 25919, Nirala, 28389 e Pak-10927, transplantados em 1 de março, 15 de março e 1 de abril de exposição a condições de alta temperatura do ar. O experimento foi realizado de acordo com o Randomized Complete Block Design e os dados foram analisados pelo teste de Tuckey. O TRIA foi aplicado a 10 µM na fase de floração; água destilada foi utilizada como controle. Taxa de fotossíntese e transpiração, condutância estomática, eficiência do uso da água e efeitos sobre as enzimas antioxidantes (superóxido dismutase, catalase e peroxidase) foram avaliados. O TRIA 10 µM aumentou a taxa de fotossíntese e a eficiência do uso da água e o rendimento foi melhorado em todos os genótipos transplantados nas diferentes datas. A aplicação foliar de TRIA 10µM aumentou as atividades das enzimas antioxidantes (SOD, POD e CAT) e melhorou os atributos fisiológicos e bioquímicos de genótipos de berinjela expostos a condições de alto calor. A atividade mais elevada da enzima dismutase 5,41mg / 1g FW foi registrada no genótipo Nirala no segundo transplante. Considerando que o mais baixo foi observado em PAK-10927 (2,30 mg / g FW). A produtividade máxima de frutos foi encontrada no acesso 25919 (1,725 ​​kg por planta) no 1º transplante com Triacontanol, enquanto o acesso PAK-10927 deu a menor produção (0,285 kg por planta) no tratamento de controle no 3º transplante. Genótipo, data de transplante e aplicação de TRIA, melhoramento do crescimento, rendimento e atributos de qualidade sob estresse térmico em berinjela.

Exogenous application of salicylic acid induces salinity tolerance in eggplant seedlings / Aplicação exógena de ácido salicílico induz tolerância à salinidade em mudas de berinjela

Abstract Under salt stress conditions, plant growth is reduced due to osmotic, nutritional and oxidative imbalance. However, salicylic acid acts in the mitigation of this abiotic stress by promoting an increase in growth, photosynthesis, nitrogen metabolism, synthesis of osmoregulators and antioxidant enzymes. In this context, the objective was to evaluate the effect of salicylic acid doses on the growth and physiological changes of eggplant seedlings under salt stress. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, where the treatments were distributed in randomized blocks using a central composite matrix Box with five levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water (CEw) (0.50; 1.08; 2.50; 3.92 and 4.50 dS m-1), associated with five doses of salicylic acid (SA) (0.00; 0.22; 0.75; 1.28 and 1.50 mM), with four repetitions and each plot composed of three plants. At 40 days after sowing, plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, electrolyte leakage, relative water content, and total dry mass were determined. ECw and SA application influenced the growth and physiological changes of eggplant seedlings. Increasing the ECw reduced growth in the absence of SA. Membrane damage with the use of SA remained stable up to 3.9 dS m-1 of ECw. The relative water content independent of the CEw increased with 1.0 mM of SA. The use of SA at the concentration of 1.0 mM mitigated the deleterious effect of salinity on seedling growth up to 2.50 dS m-1 of ECw.

Resumo Em condições de estresse salino, o crescimento das plantas é reduzido, em virtude, do desequilíbrio osmótico, nutricional e oxidativo. Contudo, o ácido salicílico atua na mitigação desse estresse abiótico por promover incremento no crescimento, fotossíntese, metabolismo do nitrogênio, síntese de osmorreguladores e enzimas antioxidantes. Nesse contexto, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de doses de ácido salicílico sobre o crescimento e alterações fisiológicas de mudas de berinjela sob estresse salino. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, onde os tratamentos foram distribuídos em blocos ao acaso utilizando uma matriz composta central Box com cinco níveis de condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação (CEa) (0,50; 1,08; 2,50; 3,92 e 4,50 dS m-1), associada a cinco doses de ácido salicílico (AS) (0,00; 0,22; 0,75; 1,28 e 1,50 mM), com quatro repetições e cada parcela composta por três plantas. Aos 40 dias após a semeadura, foram determinados a altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, número de folhas, área foliar, vazamento de eletrólito, teor relativo de água e massa seca total. A CEa e a aplicação de AS influenciaram no crescimento e nas alterações fisiológicas das mudas de berinjela. O aumento da CEa reduziu o crescimento na ausência de AS. O dano de membrana com o uso de AS manteve-se estável até 3,9 dS m-1 de CEa. O conteúdo relativo de água independentemente da CEa aumentou com 1 mM de SA. O uso de AS na concentração de 1 mM mitigou o efeito deletério da salinidade no crescimento das mudas até 2,50 dS m-1 de CEa.

Promising anti-ovarian aging herbal formulation He's Yangchao promotes in vitro maturation of oocytes from advanced maternal age mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Marveled at the discovery of artemisinin, the world's expectations for traditional Chinese medicine are rising. He's Yangchao formula (HSYC) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula with the effects of tonifying kidney and essence, and reconciling yin and yang. It has been clinically proven to have anti-ovarian aging effects. Age is the primary cause of diminished ovarian reserve and assisted reproductive failure in women, whether HSYC has the potential to improve in vitro maturation of oocytes from advanced maternal age (AMA) mice has yet to be determined. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and possible mechanism of HSYC in promoting in vitro maturation of oocytes from AMA mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The GV oocytes were obtained from young and aged mice. The GV oocytes from young mice were cultured in drops of M16 medium, and the GV oocytes from AMA mice were randomly divided four groups: Vehicle group (cultured in 90% M16 medium +10% blank serum), Low HSYC group (cultured in 90% M16 medium + 10% Low HSYC-medicated serum), High-HSYC group (cultured in 90% M16 medium +10% High HSYC-medicated serum), and Quercetin group (cultured in M16 medium supplemented with 10 µM quercetin). The rates of first polar body extrusion, reactive oxygen species (ROS), intracellular calcium, and mitochondrial membrane potential levels in each groups were observed. In addition, expression levels of mitochondrial function, autophagy, DNA damage, and antioxidant-related proteins were assessed. RESULTS: Supplementation of HSYC in vitro alleviated age-associated meiotic progression defects in maternally aged oocytes. Importantly, HSYC supplementation eliminated the age-related ROS accumulation to suppress DNA damage and autophagy during the in vitro maturation of maternally aged oocytes. Meanwhile, the mitochondrial function was improved after HSYC treatment, as manifested by higher mitochondrial membrane potential and lower Ca2+ levels. Furthermore, we found that HSYC supplementation during in vitro maturation of maternally aged oocytes upregulated the expression level of SIRT3, a crucial protein in regulating mitochondrial function. Consistently, the expression levels of the SOD2, PCG1α, and TFAM were increased, while the SOD2 acetylation level was decreased, which further proved its antioxidant function. CONCLUSIONS: HSYC supplementation promotes in vitro maturation of oocytes from AMA mice mainly via improving mitochondrial function and alleviating oxidative stress. The mechanism may be related to the regulation of SIRT3-dependent deacetylation of the SOD2 pathway.

Danggui Shaoyao San: Chemical characterization and inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation to treat CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS) has effective in treating hepatic ascites and liver disease. AIM OF THE STUDY: To explore the chemical characterization of DSS and protective effect on CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its mechanism, especially its anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. And the antioxidant activity of DSS in vitro was determined. The hepatic fibrosis model was established using intragastric administration of 40% CCl4/soybean oil (v/v) twice weekly for 13 weeks. From 6th week, the DSS group and the positive control group were given DSS (2, 4, 8 g/kg/d) and silymarin (50 mg/kg/d), respectively. The livers of rats were examined histologically by H&E. The ALT, AST, ALB and TBIL were determined, and hepatic fibrosis markers (HA, LN, CIV, PIIINP), oxidative stress (SOD, MDA, GST, GSH) and inflammatory factor (IL-6, TNF-α) were tested using ELISA kits. In addition, the levels of TAC, TOS, LOOH and AOPP in the liver were also determined. RESULTS: The chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. The results show that DSS mainly includes triterpenoids, monoterpenes, phenols, sesquiterpenes, butyl phthalide, etc., and DSS has good antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, the ALT, AST and TBIL of rats were remarkably reduced after treatment with DSS at three doses. Liver histopathological analysis showed that DSS alleviated the inflammatory infiltration, hepatocyte swelling, necrosis and hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl4. DSS significantly decreased HA, IV-C, PIIINP and LN. Further determination showed that DSS significantly increased TAC, OSI and decreased TOC, LOOH and MDA, indicating that DSS could regulate redox balance and reduce lipid peroxidation in vivo. DSS also increased the activity of GST, SOD and GSH concentration. In addition, DSS also reduced IL-6 and TNF-α. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we described the chemical characterization of DSS and found that it has good antioxidant activity. We proved that DSS has the functions of reducing oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, protecting liver cells and reducing hepatic fibrosis.

The hydroalcoholic extract of Nasturtium officinale reduces oxidative stress markers and increases total antioxidant capacity in patients with asthma.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Asthma is a common chronic disease characterized by inflammation of the airways. One of the most devastating consequences of this inflammatory process is the production of reactive oxygen species responsible for oxidative stress. Nasturtium officinale commonly known as watercress has traditionally been applied in Iranian folk medicine to treat respiratory disorders and diseases mainly bronchitis and asthma. In accordance with these ethnopharmacological reports, through our previous in vivo experiment, we have confirmed significant effect of its hydroalcoholic extract in reducing lung inflammation and oxidative stress in an ovalbumin-induced asthmatic rat model. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of N. officinale hydroalcoholic extract (NOE) in patients with asthma, in order to confirm our findings of the previous performed in vivo study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The NOE capsules (500 mg) were treated twice daily for 4 weeks as a supplementary treatment in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial in asthmatics. The primary outcome was Asthma Control Test score. The blood samples were taken at the beginning and end of the study. Then, the level of inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activity were measured. RESULTS: Treatment with NOE for one month caused a reduction in the levels of MDA, PCO and NO metabolite markers compared to the placebo group. In addition, FRAP levels as an indicator of total antioxidant capacity in the intervention group was significantly increased at the end of the treatment period compared to pre-treatment values. CONCLUSION: Findings demonstrated that NOE may have a therapeutic effect on asthma by improving oxidative stress. However, more studies are required to support these results. Moreover, bio-assay guided fractionation and isolation approach can be conducted to identify major bioactive compound/s.

Neuroprotective effects of Petiveria alliacea on scopolamine-induced learning and memory impairment mouse model.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE: Petiveria alliacea L., commonly known as macura and gully root, is an important medicinal plant used in the Caribbean and Central America to treat ailments associated to the central nervous system, including poor memory. AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the effects of the P. alliacea leaves methanol fraction (PMF) on a scopolamine-induced learning and memory impairment mouse model related to acetylcholinesterase activity and oxidative stress. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After PMF administration at doses of 500 or 900 mg/kg, cognitive ability was evaluated using the Morris water maze (MWM), Y-maze (YM) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests. The mouse brain tissue was further assessed for acetylcholinesterase activity and antioxidant activity. Levels of oxidative stress were also evaluated by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione activity. Acute toxicity was also evaluated. RESULTS: PMF led to memory improvement in the behavioral tests in mice with scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment. Moreover, PMF inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity and showed antioxidant potential that in turn attenuated cholinergic degradation. Additionally, PMF increased glutathione levels and glutathione reductase activity and reduced MDA levels in the brain. Moreover, no acute toxicity was detected with the use of PMF. CONCLUSION: In a mouse model of scopolamine-induced cognitive deficit, PMF exhibited protective effects, decreasing oxidative damage and regulating cholinergic function in the brain bearing significant memory enhancing potency. These data suggest that PMF is a promising candidate for developing therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.

Reduction of NrF2 as coadjuvant during the development of persistent periapical lesions

Background: Persistent periapical lesions (PPL) are the result of pulpar necrosis induced by bacterial infection resulting in bone degradation and culminating with the loss of dental piece. Pathological changes in the peripapice are associated with the presence of free radicals. The transcription factor Nrf2 is the main regulator of the endogenous antioxidant response against oxidative stress and has been implicated in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis.The aim is to determine the oxidative condition in samples from patients with Persistent Periapical Injuries as a detonating factor of tissue damage. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out in samples with PPL (cases) and samples by removal of third molars (controls) obtained in the clinic of the specialty in endodontics, University of Guadalajara. Samples were submitted to histological staining with Hematoxylin-Eosin, lipoperoxide analysis, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione-Peroxidase (GPx) and Catalase (CAT) activities were determined by immunoenzymatic assays and NrF2 by Western Blot analysis. Results: Samples from PPL patients histologically showed an increased presence of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and eosinophils, as well as a decrease in extracellular matrix proteins and fibroblast cells. There was a rise in lipid peroxidation, GPx and SOD activities, but an important decline (36%) in Catalase activity was observed (p<0.005); finally, NrF2-protein was diminished at 10.41%. All comparisons were between cases vs controls. Conclusions: The alterations in antioxidants endogenous NrF2-controlled are related to osseous destruction in patients with PPL. (AU)

Antioxidants ameliorate oxidative stress in alcoholic liver injury by modulating lipid metabolism and phospholipid homeostasis.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a significant risk factor in the global disease burden. The antioxidants vitamin C (Vc) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) have shown hepatoprotective effects in preventing and treating ALD. However, the correlation between the improved effect of antioxidants and lipid metabolism is still unclear. In this study, AML12 cells and C57BL/6 mice stimulated with alcohol were used to investigate the protective effects and potential mechanisms of two antioxidants (Vc and NAC) on alcoholic liver injury. Results showed that Vc and NAC attenuated intracellular lipid accumulation and oxidative damage induced by excessive alcohol exposure in hepatic AML12 cells. The in vivo results indicated that antioxidants ameliorated alcohol-induced changes in histopathology, reducing the levels of alcohol metabolizing factors and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) contents, which demonstrated that antioxidants effectively mitigated liver injury in ALD mice. Further studies showed that antioxidants reversed the disruption of fatty acid (FA) synthesis and lipid transport induced by alcohol exposure, and restored phospholipid levels. Especially, Vc and NAC increased the endogenous antioxidant plasmenyl phosphatidylethanolamine (PlsEtn). Additionally, antioxidants ameliorated the alcohol-impaired mitochondrial function and inhibited excessive oxidative stress. In conclusion, antioxidants can regulate lipid metabolism and phospholipid homeostasis, which in turn inhibit oxidative stress and thereby exert protective effects against ALD.

Alleviation of gadolinium stress on Medicago by elevated atmospheric CO2 is mediated by changes in carbohydrates, Anthocyanin, and proline metabolism.

Rare earth elements (REE) like Gadolinium (Gd), are increasingly used in industry and agriculture and this is concomitant with the increasingly leaking of Gd into the environment. Under a certain threshold concentration, REE can promote plant growth, however, beyond this concentration, they exert negative effects on plant growth. Moreover, the effect of Gd on plants growth and metabolism under a futuristic climate with increasingly atmospheric CO2 has not yet been studied. To this end, we investigated the effect of soil contamination with Gd (150 mg/kg soil) on the growth, carbohydrates, proline, and anthocyanin metabolism of Medicago plants grown under ambient (aCO2, 410 ppm) or elevated CO2 (eCO2, 720 ppm) concentration. Gd negatively affected the growth and photosynthesis of plants and imposed oxidative stress i.e., increased H2O2 and lipid peroxidation (MDA) level. As defense lines, the level and metabolism of osmoprotectants (soluble sugars and proline) and antioxidants (phenolics, anthocyanins, and tocopherols) were increased under Gd treatment. High CO2 positively affected the growth and metabolism of Medicago plants. Moreover, eCO2 mitigated the negative impacts of Gd on Medicago growth. It further induced the levels of osmoprotectants and antioxidants. In line with increased proline and anthocyanins, their metabolic enzymes (e.g. OAT, P5CS, PAL, and CS) were also increased. This study advances our understanding of how Gd adversely affects Medicago plant growth and metabolism. It also sheds light on the biochemical mechanisms underlying the Gd stress-reducing impact of eCO2.

Japanese Encephalitis virus infection in astrocytes modulate microglial function: Correlation with inflammation and oxidative stress.

BACKGROUND: Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a neurotropic virus which has the propensity to infect neuronal and glial cells of the brain. Astrocyte-microglia crosstalk leading to the secretion of various factors plays a major role in controlling encephalitis in brain. This study focused on understanding the role of astrocytic mediators that further shaped the microglial response towards JEV infection. METHODS: After establishing JEV infection in C8D1A (mouse astrocyte cell line) and primary astrocyte enriched cultures (PAEC), astrocyte supernatant was used for preparation of conditioned media. Astrocyte supernatant was treated with UV to inactivate JEV and the supernatant was added to N9 culture media in ratio 1:1 for preparation of conditioned media. N9 microglial cells post treatment with astrocyte conditioned media and JEV infection were checked for expression of various inflammatory genes by qRT-PCR, levels of secreted cytokines in N9 cell supernatant were checked by cytometric bead array. N9 cell lysates were checked for expression of proteins - pNF-κß, IBA-1, NS3 and RIG-I by western blotting. Viral titers were measured in N9 supernatant by plaque assays. Immunocytochemistry experiments were done to quantify the number of infected microglial cells after astrocyte conditioned medium treatment. Expression of different antioxidant enzymes was checked in N9 cells by western blotting, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected by fluorimetry using DCFDA dye. RESULTS: N9 microglial cells post treatment with JEV-infected astrocyte conditioned media and JEV infection were activated, showed an upsurge in expression of inflammatory genes and cytokines both at the transcript and protein levels. These N9 cells showed a decrease in quantity of viral titers and associated viral proteins in comparison to control cells (not treated with conditioned media but infected with JEV). Also, N9 cells upon conditioned media treatment and JEV infection were more prone to undergo oxidative stress as observed by the decreased expression of antioxidant enzymes SOD-1, TRX-1 and increased secretion of reactive oxygen species (ROS). CONCLUSION: Astrocytic mediators like TNF-α, MCP-1 and IL-6 influence microglial response towards JEV infection by promoting inflammation and oxidative stress in them. As a result of increased microglial inflammation and secretion of ROS, viral replication is lessened in conditioned media treated and JEV infected microglial cells as compared to control cells with no conditioned media treatment but only JEV infection.

Oxidative stress affects the beginning of the growth of cancer cells through a variety of routes.

Oxidative stress is a physiological condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cell's antioxidant defense system. ROS are highly reactive molecules that can cause damage to cellular structures such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. the regulation of ROS levels and the antioxidant defense system is crucial for cancer prevention and treatment. Strategies to enhance antioxidant defenses or induce oxidative stress selectively in cancer cells are being developed as potential therapeutic approaches. targeting oxidative stress in cancer treatment is an active area of research with several potential therapeutic approaches being investigated. Developing selective and effective therapies that target oxidative stress in cancer cells while sparing normal cells will be crucial for improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Insights into physiological and metabolic modulations instigated by exogenous sodium nitroprusside and spermidine reveals drought tolerance in Helianthus annuus L.

Drought is the most critical climatic factor instigating severe threats to crop production worldwide. As stress ameliorants, exogenous sodium nitroprusside (SNP) or spermidine (Spd) supply has positive responses in alleviating the drought adversities in crops, however, reports regarding their combined effects is still elusive. Here, the protective role of SNP and Spd to confer drought resistance in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) through up-regulation of physiological and metabolic processes was investigated. Plants were foliar sprayed with individual or combined SNP (100 µM) or Spd (100 µM). Drought was induced by keeping the soil at 100% (normal) and 60% (drought stress) field capacity levels. Drought exposure caused a marked decline in relative water content (RWC), excised leaf water retention (ELWR), net photosynthesis (PN), transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance (gs), and sub-stomatal conductance (Ci) with substantial increase in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POX). SNP plus Spd exhibited a considerable increase in CAT, SOD, and POX activities under drought, and helped the plants to retain optimum water status and gas exchange attributes. Similarly, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were increased significantly to drought; however, a notable decline was recorded in drought prone plants treated with exogenous SNP plus Spd. Moreover, addition of SNP plus Spd under drought caused a remarkable increase in chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), chlorophyll total (Chl t), carotenoids (Car), and growth traits like shoot length (SL), root length (RL), shoot fresh weight (SFW), shoot dry weight (SDW), root dry weight (RDW). Combined SNP and Spd application could potentially alleviate the drought-induced damages in sunflower through increased water status (8-10%), antioxidant enzymes (17-28%), chlorophyll pigments (14-21%), and growth performance (12-22%) under drought stress.

The effects of a polystyrene nanoplastic on the immune response and gut microbiota of Eriocheir sinensis and its post-recovery state.

Although there is increasing concern about the toxicity of nanoplastics, the effects of nanoplastic exposure and subsequent recovery on immune responses, as well as antioxidant responses and gut microbiota, in crustaceans are rarely reported. In this study, the nonspecific immunity and antioxidant defense of Eriocheir sinensis were evaluated after acute exposure to various concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20 mg/L) of 75-nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) for 48 h, as well as after 7 days of recovery from the nanoplastic environment. The results showed that, after 48 h of exposure, nanoplastics were observed in the gills, hepatopancreas and gut. However, no nanoplastics were found in the gut after 7 days of recovery. Under nanoplastic-induced stress, Hc, Relish, proPO, and LITAF mRNA levels increased in the gills and hepatopancreas for 48 h. Expression of the myd88, Hc, Relish and proPO genes decreased in the gills during the 7-day recovery period. Exposure to nanoplastics for 48 h and recovery for 7 days significantly decreased the activities of lysozyme (LZM) alkaline phosphatase (AKP), total superoxide dismutase (SOD) and phenoloxidase (POD) and, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the hepatopancreas. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of pathogens exposed to 10 mg/L nanoplastics for 48 h increased at the species level, and these pathogens decreased significantly in the 7-day recovery period. These results suggested that exposure to nanoplastics for 48 h affected the activities of immune system enzymes and expression of immune-related genes in Eriocheir sinensis and altered the diversity and composition of their gut microbiota. E. sinensis could not recover from damage to the hepatopancreas within a 7-day recovery period. The results of this study provided insight into the effects of nanoplastics on crustaceans and it filled a gap in research on crustacean recovery after exposure to nanoplastics.

Integrating chemical and biological data by chemometrics to evaluate detoxification responses of a neotropical bivalve to metal and metalloid contamination.

Mangroves represent a challenge in monitoring studies due to their physical and chemical conditions under constant marine and anthropogenic influences. This study investigated metals/metalloids whole-body bioaccumulation (soft tissues) and the risk associated with their uptake, biochemical and morphological detoxification processes in gills and metals/metalloids immobilisation in shells of the neotropical sentinel oyster Crassostrea rhizophorae from two Brazilian estuarine sites. Biochemical and morphological responses indicated three main mechanisms: (1) catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione played important roles as the first defence against reactive oxygen species; (2) antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals, glutathione S-transferase, metallothionein prevent protein damage and (3) metals/metalloids sequestration into oyster shells as a mechanism of oyster detoxification. However, the estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient, and hazard index showed that the human consumption of oysters would not represent a human health risk. Among 14 analysed metals/metalloids, chemometrics indicate that Mn, As, Pb, Zn and Fe overload the antioxidant system leading to morphological alterations in gills. Overall, results indicated cellular vacuolization and increases in mucous cell density as defence mechanisms to prevent metals/metalloids accumulation and the reduction in gill cilia; these have long-term implications in respiration and feeding and, consequently, for growth and development. The integration of data from different sites and environmental conditions using chemometrics highlights the main biological patterns of detoxification from a neotropical estuarine bivalve, indicating the way in which species can cope with metals/metalloids contamination and its ecological consequences.

The key roles of reactive oxygen species in microglial inflammatory activation: Regulation by endogenous antioxidant system and exogenous sulfur-containing compounds.

Aberrant innate immunity in the brain has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and depression. Except for extraparenchymal CNS-associated macrophages, which predominantly afford protection against peripheral invading pathogens, it has been reported that microglia, a population of macrophage-like cells governing CNS immune defense in nearly all neurological diseases, are the main CNS resident immune cells. Although microglia have been recognized as the most important source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the CNS, ROS also may underlie microglial functions, especially M1 polarization, by modulating redox-sensitive signaling pathways. Recently, endogenous antioxidant systems, including glutathione, hydrogen sulfide, superoxide dismutase, and methionine sulfoxide reductase A, were found to be involved in regulating microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. A series of natural sulfur-containing compounds, including S-adenosyl methionine, S-methyl-L-cysteine, sulforaphane, DMS, and S-alk(enyl)-l-cysteine sulfoxide, modulating endogenous antioxidant systems have been discovered. We have summarized the current knowledge on the involvement of endogenous antioxidant systems in regulating microglial inflammatory activation and the effects of sulfur-containing compounds on endogenous antioxidant systems. Finally, we discuss the possibilities associated with compounds targeting the endogenous antioxidant system to treat neuroinflammation-associated diseases.

Combined toxic effects of perfluorooctanoic acid and microcystin-LR on submerged macrophytes and biofilms.

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and microcystin-LR (MCLR) are pervasive pollutants in surface waters that induce significant toxic effects on aquatic organisms. However, the combined environmental risk of PFOA and MCLR remains unclear. To assess the toxic effects of PFOA and MCLR on submerged macrophytes and biofilms, Vallisneria natans was exposed to different concentrations of PFOA and MCLR (0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 µg L-1). Vallisneria natans was sensitive to high concentrations of MCLR (10 µg L-1): plants exposed to 10 µg L-1 of MCLR measured a biomass of 3.46 g, which was significantly lower than the 8.71 g of the control group. Additionally, antagonistic interactive effects were observed in plants exposed to combined PFOA and MCLR. Exposure to these pollutants adversely affected photosynthesis of the plants and triggered peroxidation that promoted peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and increased malondialdehyde and glutathione concentrations. The total chlorophyll content was lower in the highest concentration of the combined treatment group (0.443 mg g-1) than in the control group (0.534 mg g-1). Peroxidase activity increased from 662.63 U mg-1 Pr to 1193.45 U mg-1 Pr with increasing PFOA concentrations. Metabolomics indicated that the stress tolerance of Vallisneria natans was improved via altered fatty acid metabolism, hormone metabolism and carbon metabolism. Furthermore, PFOA and MCLR influenced the abundance and structure of the microbial community in the biofilms of Vallisneria natans. The increased contents of autoinducer peptide and N-acylated homoserine lactone signaling molecules indicated that these pollutants altered the formation and function of the biofilm. These results expand our understanding of the combined effects of PFOA and MCLR in aquatic ecosystems.

L-Cysteine hydrochloride inhibits Aspergillus flavus growth and AFB1 synthesis by disrupting cell structure and antioxidant system balance.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent known naturally occurring carcinogen and pose an immense threat to food safety and human health. L-Cysteine hydrochloride (L-CH) is a food additive often used as a fruit and vegetable preservative and also to approved bread consistency. In this study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of L-CH as an antimicrobial on the growth of Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) and AFB1 biosynthesis. L-CH significantly inhibited A. flavus mycelial growth, affected mycelial morphology and AFB1 synthesis. Furthermore, L-CH induced glutathione (GSH) synthesis which scavenged intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). RNA-Seq indicated that L-CH inhibited hyphal branching, and spore and sclerotia formation by controlling cell wall and spore development-related genes. Activation of the GSH metabolic pathway eliminated intracellular ROS, leading to hyphal dwarfing. L-CH treatment downregulated most of the Aflatoxin (AF) cluster genes and aflS, aflR, AFLA_091090 transcription factors. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanism of L-CH control of A. flavus and AFB1 foundation. We believe that L-CH could be used as a food additive to control AFB1 in foods and also in the environment.