Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant role of ursolic acid in cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in rats.

BACKGROUND: Ursolic acid (UA) is found in many plants, and has been reported to have anti-protease, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of ursolic acid in cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis (AP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to 4 equal groups: Sham, acute pancreatitis, treatment, and ursolic acid group. RESULTS: Serum amylase levels in the AP and treatment groups were significantly higher than in the others (p < 0.05). In addition, serum IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the AP group in comparison with the treatment group. Although pancreatic tissue total oxidant activity in the AP and treatment groups was similar, pancreatic tissue total antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the AP group. CONCLUSIONS: Damage to the pancreas and remote organs in AP was observed to be reduced by UA. In addition, oxidative stress was observed to be decreased by the effect of UA.

ANTECEDENTES: El ácido ursólico se encuentra en numerosas plantas y se ha informado que tiene efectos antiproteasas, antioxidantes, antiinflamatorios, antimicrobianos, nefroprotectores, hepatoprotectores y cardioprotectores. OBJETIVO: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos del ácido ursólico en la pancreatitis aguda inducida por ceruleína. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Treinta y dos ratas albinas Wistar fueron asignadas aleatoriamente a cuatro grupos iguales: grupo simulado, grupo de pancreatitis aguda, grupo de tratamiento y grupo de ácido ursólico. RESULTADOS: Los niveles de amilasa sérica en los grupos de pancreatitis aguda y de tratamiento fueron significativamente más altos que en los otros grupos (p < 0.05). Además, los niveles séricos de IL-1ß, IL-6 y TNF-α fueron significativamente más altos en el grupo de pancreatitis aguda en comparación con el grupo de tratamiento. Aunque la actividad oxidante total del tejido pancreático en ambos grupos fue similar, la capacidad antioxidante total del tejido pancreático en el grupo de tratamiento fue significativamente mayor. CONCLUSIÓN: Se observó que el ácido ursólico reduce el daño al páncreas y órganos remotos en la pancreatitis aguda, al igual que el estrés oxidativo.

Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in Vitiligo. / Factor nuclear eritroide similar al factor 2 en el vitíligo.

Vitiligo is a pigmentary disorder, in which oxidative stress has been evidenced as part of the pathogenesis. Pathways responsible for protecting melanocytes from damage caused by reactive oxygen species are known as the nuclear factor erythroid factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that remains inhibited when the organism is in homeostasis, but in the presence of oxidative stress it allows the encoding of phase ii antioxidant enzymes. In vitiligo there are abnormalities in the location and function of Nrf2 as well as polymorphisms that increase the risk of this disease. Currently, multiple molecules that act on Nrf2 have been investigated in order to find useful emerging treatments for vitiligo. A search for articles in Spanish and English was carried out in the PubMed, Ovid, Scopus and Web of Science Clarivate databases, using the keywords "Vitiligo AND nuclear factor erythroid derived 2 like 2 OR NRF2" without time restriction. All in vitro studies, narrative reviews, case series, cohort studies, and randomized and non-randomized clinical trials that specifically addressed the issue of Nrf2 associated with vitiligo were included.

Latest advances in chronic pancreatitis. / Últimos avances en pancreatitis crónica.

This article summarizes some of the recent and clinically relevant advances in chronic pancreatitis. These advances mainly concern the definition of the disease, the etiological diagnosis of idiopathic disease, the correlation between fibrosis degree and pancreatic secretion in the early stages of chronic pancreatitis, the treatment of the disease and of pain, the clinical relevance of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, and the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis. A new mechanistic definition of chronic pancreatitis has been proposed. Genetic testing is mainly of help in patients with relapsing idiopathic pancreatitis. A significant correlation has been shown between the degree of pancreatic fibrosis as evaluated by elastography and pancreatic secretion of bicarbonate. New data supports the efficacy of antioxidants and simvastatin for the therapy of chronic pancreatitis. The pancreatoscopy-guided intraductal lithotripsy is an effective alternative to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in patients with chronic calcifying pancreatitis. The presence of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency in patients with chronic pancreatitis is associated with a significant risk of cardiovascular events. Fine needle biopsy and contrast enhanced harmonic endoscopic ultrasonography are of help for the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis and its differential diagnosis with pancreatic cancer.

[Efficacy of disinfection treatments using essential oils and ultrasound on tomato fruits inoculated with Escherichia coli and impact on antioxidant activity]. / Eficiencia de la desinfección con aceites esenciales y ultrasonido sobre Escherichia coli inoculada en frutos de tomate y el impacto sobre la actividad antioxidante.

Fresh produce often harbors a great number of microorganisms; hence, its growing demand may constitute a risk for consumers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of several disinfection procedures against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) inoculated on tomato fruits and the conservation of the antioxidant properties of these disinfected fruits. Fruits were immersed for 5 or 10min in oregano or thyme essential oil dispersions (5, 10ppm), with or without ultrasound treatment. Antioxidant activity of disinfected fruits was determined as the ability to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-pricrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and was reported as percentage of inhibition (%I). The most efficient disinfectant treatments showing significant differences (p≤.05) between the reductions log10 CFU/g (S) of ETEC were those using 10ppm oregano for 10min, with S=3.05 in individual treatments and S=4.03 in mixed treatments. The highest %I was obtained with individual sonication treatments (69.52 and 72.48), while in combined treatments the %I values increased with thyme oil 5ppm and ultrasound for 5min (51.27%) and 10min (53.31%).

Exploring the metabolic and antioxidant potential of solergy: Implications for enhanced animal production.

Cell models are indispensable tools in biotechnology when investigating the functional properties of organic compounds. The emergence of various additives designed to enhance animal production has introduced the need for in-depth evaluations, which are often hindered by the complexities of in vivo testing. In this study, we harnessed cell-based models to scrutinize the impact of Solergy as a regulator of cellular metabolism with a particular focus on its modulation of glycogen and antioxidant effects. Our experiment was designed to include assessments of the influence of Solergy on the viability of both terrestrial and aquatic vertebrate cell models, which revealed the benign nature of Solergy and its lack of adverse effects. Furthermore, we examined the capacity of Solergy to modulate intracellular ATP concentrations and enhance glycogen accumulation. Notably, the antioxidant potential of Solergy and its ability to mitigate cellular aging were evaluated within the same cellular frameworks. The outcomes of our investigation suggest that Solergy is a potent metabolic regulator that elevates cellular activity while exerting an antioxidant effect. Importantly, our study demonstrates that Solergy does not induce changes in membrane oxidation. These findings indicate the potential of using Solergy to regulate glycogen synthesis, intracellular ATP concentrations, and oxidative stress in production animals. The multifaceted effects of this additive, which acts as both a metabolism enhancer and an antioxidant, open doors to the creation of custom diets tailored to meet specific production needs while maintaining stable production parameters.

Evaluation of serum placenta-specific gene 8 protein, total antioxidant capacity, interleukin-10, interleukin-17A, interleukin-21 and interleukin-33 levels in Turkish women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

PURPOSE: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as carbohydrate intolerance that begins or is diagnosed during pregnancy. Our study aimed to establish a correlation between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory response in order to be able to develop treatment strategies and determine early diagnosis biomarkers in the sera of cases diagnosed with GDM. Moreover, we aimed to investigate interleukin (IL), placenta-specific gene 8 protein (PLAC8) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in patients with GDM. METHODS: A total of 121 patients were included in the study. These were divided into four patient groups: pregnant and diagnosed with DM (P-GDM, n=30); pregnant and not diagnosed with DM (P-NGDM, n=32); non-pregnant diagnosed with DM (NP-DM, n=29) and non-pregnant and not diagnosed with DM (NPNDM, n=30). IL-10, IL-17A, IL-21, IL-33, PLAC8 and TAC determinations from patients were evaluated by ELISA (Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) method. RESULTS: IL-10 and IL-33 concentrations were found to be significantly higher in P-GDM and NP-DM patient groups compared to P-NGDM and NP-NDM groups (p<0.001). The PLAC8 level in the P-GDM patient group (20.38±5.37) was determined to be significantly higher than in the P-NGDM patient group (3.41±2.17, p<0.001). TAC in the P-NGDM and NP-NDM groups (12.42±2.31 vs. 12.96±3.78, p<0.001) was determined to be significantly higher than in the P-GDM and NP-DM groups (4.8±0.52 vs. 2.21±0.71, p<0.001). DISCUSSION: The fact that the importance of PLAC8 level and TAC in the diagnosis and follow-up of GDM in pregnancy is demonstrated for the first time in this study shows that it is unique.

[Mitochondrial and microcirculatory distress syndrome in the critical patient. Therapeutic implications]. / Síndrome de distrés mitocondrial y de la microcirculación en el paciente crítico. Implicaciones terapéuticas.

Mitochondrial and microcirculatory distress syndrome (MMDS) can occur during systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and is characterized by cytopathic tissue hypoxia uncorrected by oxygen transport optimization, and associated with an acquired defect in the use of oxygen and energy production in mitochondria, leading to multiple organ dysfunction (MOD). We examine the pathogenesis of MMDS, new diagnostic methods, and recent therapeutic approaches adapted to each of the three phases in the evolution of the syndrome. In the initial phase, the aim is prevention and early reversal of mitochondrial dysfunction. Once the latter is established, the aim is to restore flow of the electron chain, mitochondrial respiration, and to avoid cellular energy collapse. Finally, in the third (resolution) stage, treatment should focus on stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis and the repair or replacement of damaged mitochondria.

[Assessment of the in vitro effect of intra and extracellular extracts of Lactobacillus against genotoxicity and oxidative stress caused by acrylamide]. / Evaluación del efecto in vitro de extractos intra y extracelulares de Lactobacillus contra la genotoxicidad y el estrés oxidativo causado por la acrilamida.

Introduction: Introduction: acrylamide is formed by the Maillard reaction and is found in many food products subjected to thermal processes, generating genotoxicity and DNA damage. Studies have reported that lactobacilli have the ability to generate compounds with antioxidant, antigenotoxic and antimutagenic activity, which is why the present work aims to evaluate the effect of Lactobacillus strains and their intra and extracellular extracts against genotoxicity and oxidative stress as caused by acrylamide. Methods: a strain of Lactobacillus casei Shirota and a strain of Lactobacillus reuteri NRRL B-14171 were used, both were cultured in MRS broth and subjected to mechanical and enzymatic treatments to obtain extra and intracellular extracts. Lymphocytes were cultured in RPMI medium. Lipid peroxidation was evaluated by TBARS and the antioxidant capacity was measured in the extra and intracellular extracts with the ABTS technique, also using a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC 212 as a model. The reduction of lipid peroxidation in lymphocytes was measured by TBARS and the reduction of genotoxicity by reducing the formation of micronuclei in lymphocytes. Results: both strains evaluated, as well as their intra and extracellular extracts, showed the ability to counteract oxidative stress and genotoxicity caused by acrylamide. Conclusion: the results found suggest that the use of intra and extracellular extracts of both strains could be an alternative to reduce the effects of genotoxicity and oxidative stress caused by acrylamide without the need for a viable structure.

Introducción: Introducción: la acrilamida se forma mediante la reacción de Maillard, por lo que se encuentra en muchos productos alimenticios sometidos a procesos térmicos, generando genotoxicidad y daños al ADN. Los estudios han reportado que los lactobacilos tienen la capacidad de generar compuestos con actividad antioxidante, antigenotóxica y antimutagénica, y es por esto que el presente trabajo pretende evaluar el efecto de cepas de Lactobacillus y sus extractos intra y extracelulares contra la genotoxicidad y el estrés oxidativo causado por la acrilamida. Métodos: se empleó una cepa de Lactobacillus casei Shirota y una cepa de Lactobacillus reuteri NRRL B-14171. Ambas fueron cultivadas en caldo MRS y sometidas a tratamientos mecánicos y enzimáticos para obtener los extractos extra e intracelulares. Los linfocitos fueron cultivados en medio RPMI, la peroxidación lipídica se evaluó por TBARS y la capacidad antioxidante se midió en los extractos extra e intracelulares con la técnica ABTS, empleando además una cepa de Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC 212 como modelo. La reducción de la peroxidación lipídica en los linfocitos se midió por TBARS y la reducción de la genotoxicidad mediante la reducción de la formación de micronúcleos en los linfocitos. Resultados: ambas cepas evaluadas, así como sus extractos intra y extracelulares, mostraron capacidad de contrarrestar el estrés oxidativo y la genotoxicidad causada por la acrilamida. Conclusión: los resultados encontrados, sugieren que el empleo de extractos intra y extracelulares de ambas cepas podría ser una alternativa para reducir los efectos de genotoxicidad y estrés oxidativo causados por la acrilamida sin la necesidad de requerir una estructura viable.

[Total antioxidant capacity of the diet of pregnant women in the Community of Madrid]. / Capacidad antioxidante total de la dieta de las mujeres gestantes de la Comunidad de Madrid.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction and objective: pregnancy is a stage of life with high nutritional vulnerability and increased levels of maternal oxidative stress. Total antioxidant capacity (CAT) identifies the protective effect of a balanced diet rich in foods of plant origin with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to relate CAT with dietary intake and body mass index (BMI) in pregnant women in the Community of Madrid. Methods: a cross-sectional, comparative study was conducted in 89 pregnant women and 61 healthy women of reproductive age. Age, place of origin, weight, height, BMI, macronutrient and micronutrient intake, and dietary CAT by food frequency were recorded; CAT was classified as desirable (≥ 19,301.0 µm/g) or undesirable (< 19,301.0 µm/g); the statistical analysis, including χ², Student's t-test or Mann Whitney U-test, was made using the SPSS program v.23. Results: differences were found in caloric profile, intake of antioxidant micronutrients, and dietary CAT (p < 0.05). Mean CAT in pregnant women was 23,163.0 ± 10,829.0 µm/g, whereas in non-pregnant women it was 25,916.0 ± 9,703.0 µm/g (p = 0.035). Pregnant women with a desirable CAT (56.2 %) preferred to consume fruits and vegetables, and 65.6 % of non-pregnant women preferred bread, pasta and cereals (p = 0.02). Hand fruit, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and tomato were preferentially consumed by both groups. In pregnant women, poor nutritional status, overweight, and obesity rates of 36.0 % were found versus 28.0 % in non-pregnant women (p < 0.001). Conclusion: the BMI of pregnant women is not related to dietary CAT or the relatively low consumption of antioxidant components.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción y objetivo: el embarazo es una etapa de la vida con alta vulnerabilidad nutricional y aumento de los niveles de estrés oxidativo en la madre. La capacidad antioxidante total (CAT) identifica el efecto protector de la dieta equilibrada, rica en alimentos de origen vegetal con actividad antioxidante. El objetivo de este estudio fue relacionar la CAT con la ingesta dietética y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) en mujeres gestantes pertenecientes a la Comunidad de Madrid. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal comparativo de 89 mujeres gestantes y 61 mujeres sanas en edad reproductiva. Se registraron la edad, el lugar de origen, el peso, la estatura, el IMC, la ingesta de macronutrientes y micronutrientes, y la CAT dietética por frecuencia alimentaria; la CAT se clasificó como deseable (≥ 19.301,0 µm/g) y no deseable (< 19.301,0 µm/g); el análisis estadístico, con la prueba del χ², la prueba de la t de Student o la prueba de la U de Mann Whitney, se realizó de acuerdo con la normalidad de las variables en la población estudiada. Se utilizó el programa SPSS, versión 23. Resultados: se encontraron diferencias en el perfil calórico, la ingesta de micronutrientes antioxidantes y la CAT dietética (p < 0,05). La CAT promedio en las gestantes fue de 23.163,0 ± 10.829,0 µm/g, frente a 25.916,0 ± 9.703,0 µm/g en las no gestantes (p = 0,035). Las gestantes con CAT deseable (56,2 %) preferían consumir frutas y verduras, mientras que el 65,6 % de las mujeres no gestantes preferían el pan, la pasta y los cereales (p = 0,03). La fruta de mano, los frutos cítricos, las verduras de hoja verde y el tomate eran consumidos preferentemente por ambos grupos. En las mujeres gestantes, en cuanto al estado nutricional deficiente, la tasa de sobrepeso y obesidad fue del 36,0 %, frente al 28,0 % entre las no gestantes (p < 0,001). Conclusión: el IMC de las mujeres gestantes no está relacionado con la CAT dietética ni con el relativo bajo consumo de componentes antioxidantes.

Protective effect of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) fruit hydroalcoholic extract against testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats.

BACKGROUND: Finding new agents for prevention and/or treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) especially from natural sources is a demanding field. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of black mulberry (BM) (Morus nigra) fruit hydroalcoholic extract on the establishment of BPH in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-nine adult male rats were randomly assigned into 7 equal groups: I: Sham control (SC), a sham surgery was performed. II: positive control (PC), rats were castrated and received testosterone propionate, at 10mg/kg/day S.C. for BPH induction. III: comparative control (CC), BPH was induced and the rats received finasteride at 5mg/kg/day P.O. IV-VII: (T1-T4): BPH was induced and the rats received BM extract at 25, 50, 100 and 200mg/kg/day P.O. for 4 consecutive weeks. RESULTS: Finasteride and/or BM extract especially at the two higher dosages, significantly affected prostate weight, prostatic index, percent of inhibition, serum and prostatic levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA), antioxidant parameters of prostatic tissue as well as histopathological and histomorphometric parameters (epithelial thickness and acinar area) of prostate. CONCLUSIONS: BM extract has protective effects against experimentally-induced BPH in rats with regard to histopathological and biochemical parameters which may be related to its antioxidant as well as DHT reducing properties in prostatic tissue.

[Decreased DNA hydroxymethylation and increased DNA demethylation are associated with high antioxidant response in systemic lupus erythematosus patients].

OBJECTIVES: DNA hydroxymethylation may be induced by oxidative stress in lupus patients, so we investigated the association between DNA hydroxymethylation and demethylation with the antioxidant response. METHODS: A case-control study was performed including lupus patients and matched healthy controls. Serum concentration of glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulphide (GSSG), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), 5-mC and 5-hmC were determined. RESULTS: One hundred and forty-two patients and 34 controls were included. 5-hmC levels were lower in SLE patients than in controls. GSH and GSSG values were lower in patients, while SOD levels were higher in patients. TAC did not show significant differences, but higher demethylation and lower hydroxydemethylation were associated to increased TAC values. Lower demethylation was associated with cytopenia and lower hydroxymethylation with longer course of the disease. Lower levels of GSH and GSSG and higher SOD values were associated with accumulated damage assessed by SLICC-ACR. CONCLUSIONS: Lower hydroxymethylation in patients than in controls was observed. Moreover, higher demethylation and lower hydroxymethylation leads to high TAC levels. DNA hydroxymethylation seems to be related to longer course of the disease.

Dexmedetomidine attenuates H2O2-induced apoptosis of rat cardiomyocytes independently of antioxidant enzyme expression.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist that has sedative and analgesic properties and myocardial protective effects. However, the mechanism underlying the protective effect of dexmedetomidine on cardiomyocytes remains unknown. This study mainly aimed to investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cardiomyocytes and whether it inhibits the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes by affecting antioxidant enzyme expression. METHODS: Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were pretreated with dexmedetomidine (100 nM) for 24 h. The cardiomyocytes were then incubated with 200 µM hydrogen peroxide solution (H2O2) for 4 h. PCR assay was used to determine the mRNA expression of antioxidant enzymes. Western blot assay was used to determine the protein expression of antioxidant enzymes. Fluorescence microscopy with the MitoSOX probe was used to detect the formation of ROS in cardiomyocytes, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting with annexin V/PI was used to determine the number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes. RESULTS: Dexmedetomidine reduced ROS generation and antioxidant enzymes levels in cardiomyocytes before H2O2 stimulation (p<0.05). However, ROS generation and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes were significantly increased after H2O2 treatment, and dexmedetomidine pretreatment markedly inhibited the changes (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, our study shows that dexmedetomidine has a protective effect on cardiomyocytes through inhibition of ROS-induced apoptosis, and more importantly, this effect is independent of antioxidant enzyme mRNA and protein expression.

Predictive value of oxidant and antioxidant status for contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a life-threatening complication after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI). Oxidative stress and inflammation may play an important role in the development of CIN. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to assess the relationship between total oxidant status, total antioxidant capacity, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), gamma-glutamyltransferase and uric acid (UA) in the development of CIN in patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). METHODS: This prospective cohort study consisted of 341 patients with STEMI. Patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without CIN. Predictors of CIN were determined by multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: Multivariate regression analysis showed that initial glucose level, contrast media volume/glomerular filtration ratio (eGFR) ratio, hs-CRP, UA and oxidative status index were associated with the development of CIN in patients with STEMI. CONCLUSION: The main finding of this study is that increased oxidative stress and inflammation parameters were associated with the development of CIN in patients with STEMI. Other independent predictors of CIN were contrast media volume/eGFR ratio, initial glucose level, UA and hs-CRP.

Relationships between paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, total oxidant status, and DNA damage.

INTRODUCTION: Structural and electrophysiological changes play a critical role in the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Although the pathophysiology of paroxysmal AF (PAF) has not been fully elucidated, oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage appear to be important triggers. Thus far, no studies have investigated the relationships among total oxidant status (TOS), DNA damage, and PAF. The goal of this study was to assess TOS and DNA damage in patients with PAF. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 56 patients with PAF and 31 healthy controls. OS was assessed based on TOS, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and oxidative stress index (OSI). The level of DNA damage was assessed using 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of baseline characteristics. However, patients with PAF had significantly higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (p=0.018), TOS (p=0.001), OSI (p=0.001), and 8-OHdG (p=0.019) levels, compared with the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that serum TOS level (odds ratio: 1.608; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.188-2.176, p=0.002) was the only independent predictor of PAF. TOS ≥12.2 predicted PAF with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 76% (AUC: 0.785, 95% CI: 0.687-0.883, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: We found that TOS and DNA damage were significantly greater in patients with PAF than in the control group. Therefore, we propose that TOS and DNA damage can be used to detect patients at higher risk of AF.

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) consumption improves hepatic and renal parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

INTRODUCTION: Objective: this study aims to evaluate the protective action of the guarana compound on the biochemical profile of alloxan-induced diabetes in rats. Method: twenty-eight male Wistar Furth rats were divided into four groups of seven animals each: the control group (CG) was fed a standard diet; the guarana group (GG) was fed a standard diet supplemented with guarana; the diabetic group (DG) included alloxan-induced diabetic rats fed a standard diet; and the diabetic guarana group (DGG) included alloxan-induced diabetic rats fed a standard diet supplemented with guarana. Induction was performed by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan 150 mg/kg. Results: LDL (CG: 24.64 ± 2,59; GG: 38.93 ± 7.19; DG: 14.9 ± 3.96; DGG: 20.8 ± 4.04 mg/dL); HDL (CG: 14.8 ± 4.86; GG: 13 ± 1.41; DG: 22.5 ± 7.81; DGG: 30.66 ± 9.02 mg/dL); ALT (CG: 31.8 ± 4.81; GG: 22.16 ± 1.83; DG: 38 ± 1.4; DGG: 26.83 ± 2.13 U/L); AST (CG: 101.8 ± 5.07; GG: 117.5 ± 9.73; DG: 183.6 ± 4.21; DGG: 116.16 ± 12 U/L); urea (CG: 51.4 ± 5.03; GG: 42.5 ± 8.24; DG: 129.16 ± 31.72; DGG: 150.5 ± 36.02 mg/dL); creatinine (CG: 0.6 ± 0.12; GG: 0.53 ± 0.05; DG: 0.78 ± 0.11; DGG: 0.61 ± 0.07 mg/dL). Conclusions: consumption of guarana (Paullinia cupana) by male Wistar Furth rats with alloxan induced diabetes without treatment had a beneficial effect on hepatic and renal function parameters, and raises the possibility of being used as supportive therapy in the treatment of diabetes.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Objetivo: este estudio tiene el objetivo de evaluar la posible acción protectora de este compuesto sobre el perfil bioquímico de ratas con diabetes inducida por aloxano. Material y métodos: veintiocho ratas macho Wistar Furth se dividieron en cuatro grupos de siete animales cada uno: el grupo de control (CG) se alimentó con la dieta estándar; el grupo de guaraná (GG) se alimentó con la dieta estándar complementada con guaraná; el grupo diabético (DG) se formó con ratas con diabetes inducida por aloxano que se alimentaron con la dieta estándar; el grupo diabético con guaraná (DGG) se formó con ratas con diabetes inducida por aloxano que se alimentaron con la dieta estándar complementada con guaraná. La inducción se realizó através de una inyección intraperitoneal de aloxano en dosis de 150 mg/kg. Resultados: LDL (CG: 24,64 ± 2,59; GG: 38,93 ± 7,19; DG: 14,9 ± 3,96; DGG: 20,8 ± 4,04 mg/dl); HDL (CG: 14,8 ± 4,86; GG: 13 ± 1,41; DG: 22,5 ± 7,81; DGG: 30,66 ± 9,02 mg/dl); ALT (CG: 31,8 ± 4,81; GG: 22,16 ± 1,83; DG: 38 ± 1,4; DGG: 26,83 ± 2,13 U/L); AST (CG: 101,8 ± 5,07; GG: 117,5 ± 9,73; DG: 183,6 ± 4,21; DGG: 116,16 ± 12 U/L); urea (CG: 51,4 ± 5,03; GG: 42,5 ± 8,24; DG: 129,16 ± 31,72; DGG: 150,5 ± 36,02 mg/dl); creatinina (CG: 0,6 ± 0,12; GG: 0,53 ± 0,05; DG: 0,78 ± 0,11; DGG: 0,61 ± 0,07 mg/dl). Conclusión: el consumo de guaraná (Paullinia cupana) por ratas Wistar con diabetes inducida por aloxano y sin tratamiento actuó de forma beneficiosa sobre los parámetros hepáticos y de función renal, planteando la posibilidad de poder ser utilizado como terapia de soporte en el tratamiento de la diabetes.

In vivo assessment of the protection conferred by ß-glucans from Pleurotus ostreatus against the harmful effects of acrylamide intake (Part I).

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: acrylamide is formed in food through Maillard's reaction during thermal processing, and has been shown to be neurotoxic in humans, and a possible carcinogen. Studies have shown that ß-glucans from Pleurotus ostreatus have diverse biological properties such as antioxidant and anticancer activities. Objective: the aim of this work was to evaluate the protective effect of ß-glucans from Pleurotus ostreatus against the harmful effects of acrylamide consumption in mice. Methods: ß-glucans were obtained by alkaline-acid hydrolysis of Pleurotus ostreatus, and the content was characterized by liquid chromatography. To evaluate the effect of ß-glucans on the expression of glutathione, Balb/c mice were used, and 4 test groups were established. All groups were fed normally, and the groups treated with acrylamide were administered the compound intragastrically at a concentration of 50 g/mL; ß-glucans were administered at a concentration of 50 g/mL. Results: mice exposed to acrylamide showed a marked variation in the activity of glutathione enzymes in the liver. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were only found in the expression of glutathione transferase, which was increased almost 3 times in the group treated with ß-glucans as compared with the control group, and 1.5 times as compared with the group treated with acrylamide. Conclusions: the results show that ß-glucans could act by increasing the activity of enzymes involved in xenobiotic detoxification, thus protecting the biological system against the harmful effects caused by acrylamide intake.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: la acrilamida se forma en los alimentos a través de la reacción de Maillard durante el proceso térmico, y ha demostrado ser neurotóxica en humanos y un posible carcinógeno. Algunos estudios han demostrado que los ß-glucanos de Pleurotus ostreatus tienen diversas propiedades biológicas, como actividades antioxidantes y anticancerígenas. Objetivo: el objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto protector de los ß-glucanos de Pleurotus ostreatus contra los efectos nocivos por consumo de acrilamida en ratones (prueba in vivo). Métodos: los ß-glucanos se obtuvieron por hidrólisis ácido-alcalina de Pleurotus ostreatus y su contenido se caracterizó por cromatografía líquida. La oxidación de los lípidos se evaluó mediante el método de TBARS, y para evaluar el efecto de los ß-glucanos en la expresión de glutatión se usaron ratones Balb/c, y se establecieron 4 grupos de prueba. Todos los grupos fueron alimentados normalmente; a lo grupos tratados con acrilamida, esta se les administró intragástricamente en una concentración de 50 µg/ml, y los ß-glucanos en una concentración de 50 µg/ml. Resultados: en el presente trabajo, los ratones expuestos a acrilamida mostraron una marcada variación en la actividad de las enzimas de glutatión determinadas en el hígado. Solo se encontraron diferencias significativas (p < 0,05) en la expresión de glutatión-transferasa, que aumentó casi 3 veces en el grupo tratado con ß-glucano en comparación con el grupo de control, y 1,5 veces con respecto al grupo tratado con acrilamida. Conclusiones: los resultados muestran que los ß-glucanos podrían actuar como agentes antioxidantes que protegen el hígado contra el estrés oxidativo causado por la ingesta de acrilamida.

[Influence of soccer training on parameters of oxidative stress in erythrocytes]. / Influencia del entrenamiento en fútbol sobre parámetros de estrés oxidativo en eritrocitos.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: the situations of stress among which physical exercise is included imply the possibility of an excessive production of free radicals and, by their action, an oxidative stress in the cells. To combat these effects, cells have defense mechanisms called antioxidant systems. Objectives: the objective of this study is to analyze the possible physiological changes in relation to parameters related to oxidative stress (MDA) and antioxidant activity (vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E) in the erythrocytes of professional soccer players, in comparison with untrained subjects. Methods: forty-two men divided into 21 soccer players (SG) (24.95 ± 3.03 years) and 21 sedentary students (CG) (23.71 ± 2.42 years) participated in the study. Their basal levels of MDA, vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E in erythrocytes, as well as their anthropometric characteristics and VO2max, were evaluated. Results: significant differences were observed in the anthropometric characteristics (p < 0.05) and VO2max (p > 0.01). SG presented statistically lower levels of MDA (p > 0.01), vitamin C (p > 0.05), vitamin E (p > 0.05) and vitamin A (p > 0.01). Conclusions: there is higher oxidative stress in soccer players than in sedentary players and it may be necessary to supplement with antioxidants in this group.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: cualquier situación de estrés, entre las cuales se incluye la realización de ejercicio físico, implica la posibilidad de una excesiva producción de radicales libres y, por acción de estos, un estrés oxidativo en las células. Para combatir estos efectos, las células disponen de unos mecanismos de defensa denominados sistemas antioxidantes. Objetivos: el objetivo del presente estudio se basa en analizar los posibles cambios fisiológicos en relación a parámetros relacionados con el estrés oxidativo (MDA) y con la actividad antioxidante (vitamina A, vitamina C y vitamina E) en los eritrocitos de jugadores profesionales de fútbol, en comparación con sujetos no entrenados. Métodos: cuarenta y dos varones divididos en 21 jugadores de fútbol (SG) (24,95 ± 3,03 años) y 21 estudiantes sedentarios (CG) (23,71 ± 2,42 años) participaron en el estudio. Se les evaluaron los niveles basales de MDA, vitamina C, vitamina A y vitamina E en eritrocitos, así como las características antropométricas y el VO2max. Resultados: se observaron diferencias significativas en las características antropométricas (p < 0,05) y VO2max (p > 0,01). SG presentó niveles estadísticamente inferiores de MDA (p > 0,01), vitamina C (p > 0,05), vitamina E (p > 0,05) y vitamina A (p > 0,01). Conclusiones: existe un mayor estrés oxidativo en jugadores de fútbol que en sedentarios, por lo que puede ser necesaria una suplementación con antioxidantes en este grupo.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used for cancer treatment at the province of Nador, Morocco

Morocco has varied wealth of aromatic and medicinal plants (AMPs) which are commonly used for prevention and treatment of vario us diseases or as complementary therapy such for cancer diseases. An ethnobotanical study was carried out in the province of Nador, located northeast of Morocco. A total of 418 persons were interviewed, information about their profile, type of medicinal pl ants existing in this area, plant characteristics and uses of those existing plants. Results showed 35 species distributed in 23 families, the most represented were Lamiaceae (7), Apiaceae (5) and Fabaceae (3). This study revealed that the population mainl y used seeds (28%), leaves (26%), aerial parts (20%) and fruits (14%). Moreover, it has shown that Nerium oleander were used by the local population for cancer treatments. Biological activity of N. oleander showed an antimicrobial effect on Escherichia col i , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus

Marruecos tiene una riqueza vegetal muy variada de plantas aromáticas y medicinales (AMP) y se utilizan com únmente para la prevención y el tratamiento de diversas enfermedades o como terapia complementaria, como las enfermedades del cáncer. Se llevó a cabo un estudio etnobotánico en la provincia de Nador, situada al noreste de Marruecos. Se entrevistó a un tota l de 418 personas, información sobre su perfil, tipo de plantas medicinales existentes en esta zona, características de las plantas, usos de las plantas existentes, etc. Los resultados mostraron una alta riqueza de especies de 35 especies distribuidas en 2 3 familias, las más representadas fueron Lamiaceae (7), Apiaceae (5) y Fabaceae (3). Este estudio reveló que la población utilizó preferentemente semillas (28%), hojas (26%), partes aéreas (20%) y frutos (14%). Además, se ha demostrado que la población loc al utilizaba Nerium oleander para tratamientos contra el cáncer. La actividad biológica de N. oleander mostró un efecto antimicrobiano sobre Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Staphylococcus aureus

Bioactivity of Myrtus communis from the Montenegro coastline / Bioactividad de Myrtus communis del litoral de Montenegro

Although numerous studies have demonstrated the biomedical potential of Myrtus communis L., (Myrtaceae) data on myrt le from Montenegro are scarce. T o evaluate antioxidant, antimutagenic and antibacterial activity of myrtle methanolic extracts. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring free radicals scavenging activity, reducing power and enzyme inhibition. The strongest scavenging activity was towards DPPH radical ( 2,2 - diphenyl - 1 - picry lhydrazyl) (IC 50 1.69 - 2.25 mg/mL) and superoxide anion (IC 50 0.56 to 0.88 mg/mL), followed by high reducing power (428 - 472 mgAA/g.DE) and inhibition of XOD (IC 50 0.308 - 0.6261mg/mL). Antimutagenic activity was evaluated in reverse mutation assays with Esche richia coli WP2 oxyR mutant IC202 and deficient in the induction of antioxidant enzymes. The myrtle extracts strongly inhibited mutagenesis induced by t - BOOH, reaching 70% at the highest concentration applied. Antimicrobial activity was examined on eight different bacterial strains. Gram - positive bacteria, S. epidermis , S. aureus and M. flavus demonstrated the highest sensitivity towards extracts (MICs 4.5 - 9 mg/mL), but significantly lower towards essential oil (MIC 0.42 - 3.32 mg/mL).

Aunque numerosos estudios han demostrado el potencial biomédico de Myrtus communis L., (Myrtaceae), los datos sobre el mirto de Montenegro son escasos. E valuar la actividad antioxidante, antimutagéni ca y antibacteriana de extractos metanólicos de mirto. La actividad antioxidante se evaluó midiendo la actividad de eliminación de radicales libres, el poder reductor y la inhibición enzimática. La actividad secuestrante más fuerte fue hacia DPPH radical ( IC 50 1.69 - 2.25 mg/mL) y radicales de anión superóxido (IC 50 0.56 a 0.88 mg/mL), seguido de alto poder reductor (428 - 472 m gAA/g.DE) e inhibición de XOD (I C 50 0,308 - 0,6261 mg/m L ). La actividad antimutagénica se evaluó en ensayos de mutación inversa con Esche richia coli WP2 oxyR mutante IC202 y deficiente en la inducción de enzimas antioxidantes. Los extractos de mirto inhibieron fuertemente la mutagénesis inducida por t - BOOH, alcanzando el 70% a la mayor concentración aplicada. La actividad antimicrobiana se examinó en octo cepas bacterianas diferentes. Las bacterias grampositivas, S. epidermis , S. aureus y M. flavus demostraron la sensibilidad más alta hacia los extractos (MIC 4.5 - 9 mg/mL), pero significativamente más baja hacia el aceite esencial (MIC 0.42 - 3 .32 mg/mL). Los resultados muestran la gran perspectiva nutrafarmacéutica de la especie montenegrina Myrtus communis .

Etoposide Model-Induced Changes in Antioxidant Studies Histological and Ultrastructural Evaluations of Hepatic, Renal, and Cardiac Tissues of Male Rats / Cambios Inducidos por el Modelo de Etopósido en Estudios de Antioxidantes, Evaluaciones Histológicas y Ultraestructurales de Tejidos Hepáticos, Renales y Cardíacos de Ratas Macho

SUMMARY: Etoposide is an effective antimitotic and antineoplastic agent used to treat various human malignancies. In the present study, Etoposide was injected intraperitoneally into the rats at 1 mg/kg/day for 52 days (52 doses). The control animals received physiological saline (0.5 ml) intraperitoneally daily for 52 doses. The body weight of etoposide-treated rats was significantly reduced compared to control rats. Lipid peroxidation demonstrated an insignificant rise in hepatic tissue, a non-significant decline in renal tissue, and a significant reduction in cardiac tissue. The levels of GSH in hepatic and renal tissue were found to be non-significantly increased but significantly increased in cardiac tissue compared to controls. GR activity was found to be considerably decreased in the treated group. G-S-T levels increased significantly in all treated group. Etoposide injections caused a non-significant change in the GPX level of hepatic tissue, whereas renal and cardiac tissues showed a significant increase. The activity of CAT in hepatic tissue was significantly increased, while CAT activity in renal tissue showed a non-significant decrease, whereas in cardiac tissue, significantly lower levels were observed than in control group. The level of CYTp450 in hepatic and cardiac tissues showed a significant increase; however, renal tissue showed non-significant depletion, whereas CYTb5 in hepatic, renal, and cardiac tissues was significantly lower than controls. The protein content in the hepatic tissue was not significantly increased, whereas the total protein in the renal and cardiac tissues was increased significantly. The research finding is indicative of detoxification activity in the etoposide model.

El etopósido es un agente antimitótico y antineoplásico eficaz que se utiliza para tratar diversas neoplasias malignas humanas. En el presente estudio, se inyectó etopósido por vía intraperitoneal a las ratas a razón de 1 mg/kg/día durante 52 días (52 dosis). Los animales control recibieron solución salina fisiológica (0,5 ml) por vía intraperitoneal diariamente por 52 dosis. El peso corporal de las ratas tratadas con etopósido se redujo significativamente en comparación con las ratas del grupo control. La peroxidación lipídica demostró un aumento insignificante del tejido hepático, una disminución no significativa del tejido renal y una reducción significativa del tejido cardíaco. Se encontró que los niveles de GSH en el tejido hepático y renal no aumentaron significativamente, pero sí aumentaron significativamente en el tejido cardíaco en comparación con los controles. Se encontró que la actividad de GR disminuyó considerablemente en el grupo tratado. Los niveles de G-S-T aumentaron significativamente en todos los grupos tratados. Las inyecciones de etopósido provocaron un cambio no significativo en el nivel de GPX del tejido hepático, mientras que los tejidos renal y cardíaco mostraron un aumento significativo. La actividad de CAT en el tejido hepático aumentó significativamente, mientras que la actividad de CAT en el tejido renal mostró una disminución no significativa, mientras que en el tejido cardíaco se observaron niveles significativamente más bajos que en el grupo de control. El nivel de CYTp450 en los tejidos hepático y cardíaco mostró un aumento significativo; sin embargo, el tejido renal mostró un agotamiento no significativo, mientras que CYTb5 en los tejidos hepático, renal y cardíaco fue significativamente menor que los controles. El contenido de proteínas en el tejido hepático no aumentó significativamente, mientras que la proteína total en los tejidos renal y cardíaco aumentó significativamente. El hallazgo de la investigación es indicativo de la actividad de desintoxicación en el modelo de etopósido.