Oxidative stress and vascular inflammation in aging

Modulation of the Functional State of Mouse Neutrophils by Selenium Nanoparticles In Vivo

This study aimed to discover the immunomodulatory effect of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the functional state of neutrophils in vivo. Intraperitoneal injections of SeNPs (size 100 nm) 2.5 mg/kg/daily to BALB/c mice for a duration of 7-28 days led to the development of an inflammatory reaction, which was registered by a significant increase in the number of neutrophils released from the peritoneal cavity, as well as their activated state, without additional effects. At the same time, subcutaneous injections of the same SeNPs preparations at concentrations of 0.1, 0.5, and 2.5 mg/kg, on the contrary, modulated the functional state of neutrophils depending on the concentration and duration of SeNPs administration. With the use of fluorescence spectroscopy, chemiluminescence, biochemical methods, and PCR analysis, it was found that subcutaneous administration of SeNPs (0.1, 0.5, and 2.5 mg/kg) to mice for a short period of time (7-14 days) leads to modification of important neutrophil functions (adhesion, the number of migrating cells into the peritoneal cell cavity, ROS production, and NET formation). The obtained results indicated the immunostimulatory and antioxidant effects of SeNPs in vivo during short-term administration, while the most pronounced immunomodulatory effects of SeNPs were observed with the introduction of a low concentration of SeNPs (0.1 mg/kg). Increase in the administration time of SeNPs (0.1 mg/kg or 2.5 mg/kg) up to 28 days led to a decrease in the adhesive abilities of neutrophils and suppression of the expression of mRNA of adhesive molecules, as well as proteins involved in the generation of ROS, with the exception of NOX2; there was a tendency to suppress gene expression pro-inflammatory factors, which indicates the possible manifestation of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects of SeNPs during their long-term administration. Changes in the expression of selenoproteins also had features depending on the concentration and duration of the administered SeNPs. Selenoprotein P, selenoprotein M, selenoprotein S, selenoprotein K, and selenoprotein T were the most sensitive to the introduction of SeNPs into the mouse organism, which indicates their participation in maintaining the functional status of neutrophils, and possibly mediated the immunomodulatory effect of SeNPs.

Association of simple renal cysts with metabolic syndrome in adults

Background and aims

Metabolic syndrome is common nowadays and may increase risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular complications and even mortality. Renal cysts are also frequently found during routine examination. However, the relationship between simple renal cysts (SRCs) and metabolic syndrome remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association of SRCs with metabolic syndrome.

Methods

A total of 16,216 subjects aged ≥18 years were enrolled in this study. SRCs were diagnosed with ultrasonography by finding: sharp, thin posterior walls, a round/oval shape, absence of internal echoes, and posterior enhancement. SRCs were categorized by number (0, 1, and ≥2) and size (<2 and ≥2 cm). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to the consensus statement from the International Diabetes Federation.

Results

In multivariate analysis, SRCs were positively related to metabolic syndrome (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06-1.34). The risk of metabolic syndrome was higher for SRCs with a number ≥2 (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.08-1.68) and size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.10-1.61). When considering the SRC number and size concomitantly, SRCs with a number ≥2/size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.02-1.98) or <2/size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04-1.62) were positively related to metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions

Simple renal cysts were found to be related to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, and the association is more significant in those with larger (sizes ≥2cm) or plural (numbers ≥2) SRCs.

ROS-triggered endothelial cell death mechanisms: Focus on pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis

The endothelium is a single layer of epithelium covering the surface of the vascular system, and it represents a physical barrier between the blood and vessel wall that plays an important role in maintaining intravascular homeostasis. However, endothelial dysfunction or endothelial cell death can cause vascular barrier disruption, vasoconstriction and diastolic dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, inflammatory responses, and thrombosis, which are closely associated with the progression of several diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, ischemic stroke, acute lung injury, acute kidney injury, diabetic retinopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. Oxidative stress caused by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an important mechanism underlying endothelial cell death. Growing evidence suggests that ROS can trigger endothelial cell death in various ways, including pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis. Therefore, this review will systematically illustrate the source of ROS in endothelial cells (ECs); reveal the molecular mechanism by which ROS trigger pyroptosis, parthanatos, and ferroptosis in ECs; and provide new ideas for the research and treatment of endothelial dysfunction-related diseases.

Aberrant Transferrin and Ferritin Upregulation Elicits Iron Accumulation and Oxidative Inflammaging Causing Ferroptosis and Undermines Estradiol Biosynthesis in Aging Rat Ovaries by Upregulating NF-Κb-Activated Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase: First Demonstration of an Intricate Mechanism

We report herein a novel mechanism, unraveled by proteomics and validated by in vitro and in vivo studies, of the aberrant aging-associated upregulation of ovarian transferrin and ferritin in rat ovaries. The ovarian mass and serum estradiol titer plummeted while the ovarian labile ferrous iron and total iron levels escalated with age in rats. Oxidative stress markers, such as nitrite/nitrate, 3-nitrotyrosine, and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, accumulated in the aging ovaries due to an aberrant upregulation of the ovarian transferrin, ferritin light/heavy chains, and iron regulatory protein 2(IRP2)-mediated transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1). Ferritin inhibited estradiol biosynthesis in ovarian granulosa cells in vitro via the upregulation of a nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and p65/p50-induced oxidative and inflammatory factor inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). An in vivo study demonstrated how the age-associated activation of NF-κB induced the upregulation of iNOS and the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). The downregulation of the keap1-mediated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), that induced a decrease in glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), was observed. The aberrant transferrin and ferritin upregulation triggered an iron accumulation via the upregulation of an IRP2-induced TfR1. This culminates in NF-κB-iNOS-mediated ovarian oxi-inflamm-aging and serum estradiol decrement in naturally aging rats. The iron accumulation and the effect on ferroptosis-related proteins including the GPX4, TfR1, Nrf2, Keap1, and ferritin heavy chain, as in testicular ferroptosis, indicated the triggering of ferroptosis. In young rats, an intraovarian injection of an adenovirus, which expressed iron regulatory proteins, upregulated the ovarian NF-κB/iNOS and downregulated the GPX4. These novel findings have contributed to a prompt translational research on the ovarian aging-associated iron metabolism and aging-associated ovarian diseases.

A systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrating Klotho as an emerging exerkine

Klotho is an anti-aging protein with several therapeutic roles in the pathophysiology of different organs, such as the skeletal muscle and kidneys. Available evidence suggests that exercise increases Klotho levels, regardless of the condition or intervention, shedding some light on this anti-aging protein as an emergent and promising exerkine. Development of a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to verify the role of different exercise training protocols on the levels of circulating soluble Klotho (S-Klotho) protein. A systematic search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE through PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, CT.gov, and PEDro. Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials that investigated effects of exercise training on S-Klotho levels. We included 12 reports in the analysis, comprising 621 participants with age ranging from 30 to 65 years old. Klotho concentration increased significantly after chronic exercise training (minimum of 12 weeks) (Hedge' g [95%CI] 1.3 [0.69-1.90]; P < 0.0001). Moreover, exercise training increases S-Klotho values regardless of the health condition of the individual or the exercise intervention, with the exception of combined aerobic + resistance training. Furthermore, protocol duration and volume seem to influence S-Klotho concentration, since the effect of the meta-analysis changes when subgrouping these variables. Altogether, circulating S-Klotho protein is altered after chronic exercise training and it might be considered an exerkine. However, this effect may be influenced by different training configurations, including protocol duration, volume, and intensity.

Downregulation of P300/CBP-Associated Factor Protects from Vascular Aging via Nrf2 Signal Pathway Activation

Increasing evidence has shown that vascular aging has a key role in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases. P300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) is involved in many vascular pathological processes, but the role of PCAF in vascular aging is unknown. This study aims to explore the role and underlying mechanism of PCAF in vascular aging. The results demonstrated that the expression of PCAF was associated with age and aging, and remarkably increased expression of PCAF was present in human atherosclerotic coronary artery. Downregulation of PCAF could reduce angiotensin II (AngII)-induced senescence of rat aortic endothelial cells (ECs) in vitro. In addition, inhibition of PCAF with garcinol alleviated AngII-induced vascular senescence phenotype in mice. Downregulation of PCAF could alleviate AngII-induced oxidative stress injury in ECs and vascular tissue. Moreover, PCAF and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) could interact directly, and downregulation of PCAF alleviated vascular aging by promoting the activation of Nrf2 and enhancing the expression of its downstream anti-aging factors. The silencing of Nrf2 with small interfering RNA attenuated the protective effect of PCAF downregulation from vascular aging. These findings indicate that downregulation of PCAF alleviates oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway and ultimately inhibits vascular aging. Thus, PCAF may be a promising target for aging-related cardiovascular disease.

Assessment of oxidative stress markers in elderly patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and potential prognostic implications in the medium and long term

We aimed to evaluate the correlation of plasma levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced thiols with morbidity, mortality and immune response during and after SARS-CoV-2 infection. This was an observational study that included inpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection older than 65 years. The individuals were followed up to the twelfth month post-discharge. Plasma levels of TBARS and reduced thiols were quantified as a measure of lipid and protein oxidation, respectively. Fatal and non-fatal events were evaluated during admission and at the third, sixth and twelfth month post-discharge. Differences in oxidative stress markers between the groups of interest, time to a negative RT-qPCR and time to significant anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM titers were assessed. We included 61 patients (57% women) with a mean age of 83 years old. After multivariate analysis, we found differences in TBARS and reduced thiol levels between the comparison groups in fatal and non-fatal events during hospital admission. TBARS levels were also correlated with fatal events at the 6th and 12th months post-discharge. One year after hospital discharge, other predictors rather than oxidative stress markers were relevant in the models. The median time to reach significant anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM titers was lower in patients with low levels of reduced thiols. Assessment of some parameters related to oxidative stress may help identify groups of patients with a higher risk of morbidity, mortality and delayed immune response during and after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

[Elucidation and Application of Novel Action of Therapeutic Agents for Diabetic Neuropathy]

Epalrestat is the only aldose reductase inhibitor that is currently available for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Oxidative stress impairs endothelial cells, thereby leading to numerous pathological conditions. Increasing antioxidative ability is important to prevent cellular toxicity induced by reactive oxygen species. Epalrestat increases antioxidant defense factors such as glutathione and γ-glutamylcysteine ligase in vascular endothelial cells through activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). This increases suppression of oxidative stress-induced cellular toxicity. Cadmium is an industrial and environmental pollutant that targets the vascular endothelium. The vascular system is critically affected by cadmium toxicity. Therapeutic treatment against cadmium toxicity is chelation therapy that promotes metal excretion; however, cadmium chelators can cause renal toxicity. Therefore, safe and efficient therapeutic agents are required. Epalrestat suppresses cadmium-induced cytotoxicity in vascular endothelial cells through activation of Nrf2. In addition, epalrestat affects the intracellular levels of cadmium, cadmium transporter Zrt-Irt-like protein 8 (ZIP8), and metallothionein (MT). The upregulation of ZIP8 and MT may be involved in the suppression of cadmium-induced cytotoxicity by epalrestat. Drug repurposing is a new strategy for drug discovery in which the pharmacological action of existing medicines whose safety and pharmacokinetics have already been confirmed clinically and whose use has been approved is examined comprehensively at the molecular level. The results can be applied to the development of existing drugs for use as medicines for the treatment of other diseases. This review provides useful findings for future expansion of indications as research leading to drug repurposing of epalrestat.

Resveratrol alleviates Ang II-induced vascular smooth muscle cell senescence by upregulating E2F1/SOD2 axis

Background

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) senescence is a crucial factor relevant to accelerate cardiovascular diseases. Resveratrol (RES) has been reported that could obstruct vascular senescence. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of RES in VSMCs senescence are still indistinct and deserve further investigations.

Methods and Results

In this study, VSMCs were treated with 100 nM angiotensin II (Ang II) for 3 days and then followed with a range of different concentrations of RES (0.5, 5, 15, 25, 35, 50 μM), and 25 μM of RES was chose for following experiments. We found that the E2F1 and SOD2 expressions were reduced in Ang II-induced VSMCs. RES treatment impeded Ang II-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction through elevating E2F1 and SOD2 expression, thereby alleviating VSMCs senescence. Additionally, E2F1 knockdown reversed the protective effects of RES on VSMCs senescence caused by Ang II administration. Ch-IP assay and dual luciferase reporter gene assay validated that E2F1 could bind to the promoter region of SOD2. Furthermore, E2F1 or SOD2 overexpression blocked Ang II-induced on VSMCs senescence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, RES mitigated Ang II-induced VSMCs senescence by suppressing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction through activating E2F1/SOD2 axis. Our study disclosed that RES might be a potential drug and the axis of its regulatory mechanism might be therapeutic targets for postponing vascular senescence.

Postprandial changes of oxidative stress biomarkers in healthy individuals

Food consumption induces oxidative stress in humans, but the changes in oxidative stress levels after a regular meal are still unclear. We conducted an experimental study on 20 healthy volunteers (10 males, 10 females), who matched in age (±2 years). They were given a regular diet (total energy of 704 kcal, which contains 75 g of carbohydrates, 35 g of protein, and 29 g of lipids) at 11:30 a.m. after a fast of over 12 h. We collected 6-repeated measures of venous blood samples at 2-h intervals via heparin anticoagulant tubes immediately after the meal (indicated as “0” h) and up to 10 h post-consumption. Biomarkers included plasma fluorescent products, plasma malondialdehyde, plasma total antioxidant capacity, and plasma superoxide dismutase. FlOPs were measured at three excitation/emission wavelengths (FlOP_320, FlOP_360, and FlOP_400). The average age and BMI for the twenty participants were 22.70 ± 1.98 years and 20.67 ± 2.34 kg/m², respectively. Within 10 h after the meal, the overall trend of FlOPs were generally similar. There was no evidence of dose response for any of the three FlOPs (all P > 0.05). However, levels of MDA decreased with the time of fasting (P_linear and P_quadratic < 0.05), with the biggest decrease occurring between 0 and 2 h post-meal. The overall trend of T-AOC and SOD levels also decreased with fasting time (P_linear and P_quadratic < 0.05), though an increase was observed between 0 and 2 h following consumption. Levels of MDA, T-AOC, and SOD but not FlOPs, decreased with fasting time.

Factors and Pathways Modulating Endothelial Cell Senescence in Vascular Aging

Aging causes a progressive decline in the structure and function of organs. With advancing age, an accumulation of senescent endothelial cells (ECs) contributes to the risk of developing vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and neurodegeneration. Senescent ECs undergo phenotypic changes that alter the pattern of expressed proteins, as well as their morphologies and functions, and have been linked to vascular impairments, such as aortic stiffness, enhanced inflammation, and dysregulated vascular tone. Numerous molecules and pathways, including sirtuins, Klotho, RAAS, IGFBP, NRF2, and mTOR, have been implicated in promoting EC senescence. This review summarizes the molecular players and signaling pathways driving EC senescence and identifies targets with possible therapeutic value in age-related vascular diseases.

Aging impairs arterial compliance via Klotho-mediated downregulation of B-cell population and IgG levels

OBJECTIVE

Aging is associated with compromised immune function and arterial remodeling and stiffness. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether in vivo AAV-based delivery of secreted Klotho (SKL) gene (AAV-SKL) improves aging- and senescence-associated immune dysfunction and arterial stiffness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Senescence-accelerated mice prone strain 1 (SAMP1, 10 months) and old mice (20 months) were used. Serum SKL levels, B-cell population and serum IgG levels were markedly decreased in SAMP1 and old mice. Rescue of downregulation of serum SKL levels by in vivo AAV2-based delivery of SKL gene (AAV-SKL) increased B-cell population and serum IgG levels and attenuated arterial stiffness in SAMP1 and old mice. Thus, Klotho deficiency may play a role in senescence- and aging-associated humoral immune dysfunction and arterial stiffness. Vascular infiltration of inflammatory cells and expression of TGFβ1, collagen 1, scleraxis, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were increased while the elastin level was decreased in aortas of SAMP1 and old mice which can be rescued by AAV-SKL. Interestingly, treatment with IgG effectively rescued arterial inflammation and remodeling and attenuated arterial stiffness and hypertension in aging mice. In cultured B-lymphoblast cells, we further showed that SKL regulates B-cell proliferation and maturation partly via the NFkB pathway.

CONCLUSION

Aging-associated arterial stiffening may be largely attributed to downregulation of B-cell population and serum IgG levels. AAV-SKL attenuates arterial stiffness in aging mice partly via restoring B-cell population and serum IgG levels which attenuates aging-associated vascular inflammation and arterial remodeling.

Exosomes Derived from Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Diabetic Chronic Wound Healing through SIRT3/SOD2

Chronic wounds resulting from diabetes are a major health concern in both industrialized and developing countries, representing one of the leading causes of disability and death. This study aimed to investigate the effect of adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (ADSC-exos) on diabetic wounds and the mechanism underlying this effect. The results showed that ADSC-exos could improve oxidative stress and secretion of inflammatory cytokines in diabetic wounds, thereby increasing periwound vascularization and accelerating wound healing. At the cellular level, ADSC-exos reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and improved mitochondrial function in a high-glucose environment. Moreover, the Western blot analysis showed that the high-glucose environment decreased Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) expression, while exosome treatment increased SIRT3 expression. The activity of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) was enhanced, and the level of inflammatory cytokines was decreased. Further, SIRT3 interference experiments indicated that the effects of ADSC-exos on oxidative stress and angiogenesis were partly dependent on SIRT3. After SIRT3 was inhibited, ROS production increased, while mitochondrial membrane potential and SOD2 activity decreased. These findings confirmed that ADSC-exos could improve the level of high-glucose-induced oxidative stress, promote angiogenesis, and reduce mitochondrial functional impairment and the inflammatory response by regulating SIRT3/SOD2, thus promoting diabetic wound healing.

Prenatal hypothyroidism diminished exogenous NO-mediated diastolic effects in fetal rat thoracic aorta smooth muscle via increased oxidative stress

Maternal hypothyroidism is an important problem of modern healthcare and is reported to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the offspring later in life. However, it is unclear whether hypothyroidism during pregnancy causes vascular damage in the fetal period. We established the prenatal hypothyroidism rat model and collected the fetuses at the 21th day of gestation (GD21). Thyroid hormone concentrations in maternal and offspring blood serum were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The thoracic aortas of the fetuses were isolated for microvessel functional testing and histochemical stainings. qPCR and Western blot were performed to access mRNA and protein expression. We found that the concentrations of thyroid hormones in the serum of pregnant rats and fetuses were significantly suppressed at GD21. The responses of the fetal thoracic aortas to SNP were significantly attenuated in the PTU group. However, no statistical difference was found between the two groups when treated with either inhibitor (ODQ) or activator (BAY58-2667) of sGC. The production of O₂^-• in the arterial wall was significantly increased in hypothyroid fetuses. Moreover, the level of NADPH oxidase (NOX) was increased, while superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) was down-regulated in the PTU group, ultimately contributing to the increased production of superoxide. Additionally, decreased SNP-mediated vasodilation found in fetal vessels was improved by either NOX inhibitor (Apocynin) or SOD mimic (Tempol). These results indicate that increased oxidative stress is probably the cause of the diminished diastolic effect of exogenous NO in the thoracic artery of prenatal hypothyroidism exposed fetuses.

Oxidative stress: An essential factor in the process of arteriovenous fistula failure

For more than half a century, arteriovenous fistula (AVFs) has been recognized as a lifeline for patients requiring hemodialysis (HD). With its higher long-term patency rate and lower probability of complications, AVF is strongly recommended by guidelines in different areas as the first choice for vascular access for HD patients, and its proportion of application is gradually increasing. Despite technological improvements and advances in the standards of postoperative care, many deficiencies are still encountered in the use of AVF related to its high incidence of failure due to unsuccessful maturation to adequately support HD and the development of neointimal hyperplasia (NIH), which narrows the AVF lumen. AVF failure is linked to the activation and migration of vascular cells and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, where complex interactions between cytokines, adhesion molecules, and inflammatory mediators lead to poor adaptive remodeling. Oxidative stress also plays a vital role in AVF failure, and a growing amount of data suggest a link between AVF failure and oxidative stress. In this review, we summarize the present understanding of the pathophysiology of AVF failure. Furthermore, we focus on the relation between oxidative stress and AVF dysfunction. Finally, we discuss potential therapies for addressing AVF failure based on targeting oxidative stress.

Effect of Physical Activity/Exercise on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Muscle and Vascular Aging

Functional status is considered the main determinant of healthy aging. Impairment in skeletal muscle and the cardiovascular system, two interrelated systems, results in compromised functional status in aging. Increased oxidative stress and inflammation in older subjects constitute the background for skeletal muscle and cardiovascular system alterations. Aged skeletal muscle mass and strength impairment is related to anabolic resistance, mitochondrial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress and inflammation as well as a reduced antioxidant response and myokine profile. Arterial stiffness and endothelial function stand out as the main cardiovascular alterations related to aging, where increased systemic and vascular oxidative stress and inflammation play a key role. Physical activity and exercise training arise as modifiable determinants of functional outcomes in older persons. Exercise enhances antioxidant response, decreases age-related oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory signals, and promotes the activation of anabolic and mitochondrial biogenesis pathways in skeletal muscle. Additionally, exercise improves endothelial function and arterial stiffness by reducing inflammatory and oxidative damage signaling in vascular tissue together with an increase in antioxidant enzymes and nitric oxide availability, globally promoting functional performance and healthy aging. This review focuses on the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in aged musculoskeletal and vascular systems and how physical activity/exercise influences functional status in the elderly.

Trends and challenges in phytotherapy and phytocosmetics for skin aging

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Free radicals, oxidative stress, and inflammation contribute to the etiology of most chronic diseases.

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Natural products can be incorporated into cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and nutricosmetics to tackle inflammation-related diseases.

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The use of alternative green extraction solvents such as natural deep eutectic solvents and electrochemically reduced water is trending.

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Delivery systems are important for the enhancement of the bioavailability, stability, solubility, and controlled release profile of the bioactives.

Oxidative stress and inflammation mostly contribute to aging and age-related conditions including skin aging. The potential of natural products in the form of naturally-derived cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and nutricosmetics have, however, not been fully harnessed. This review, thus, critically analyzes the potential roles of natural products in inflammation-related skin aging diseases due to the increasing consumers’ concerns and demands for efficacious, safe, natural, sustainable, and religiously permitted alternatives to synthetic products. The information and data were collated from various resources and literature databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley, Springer, Taylor and Francis, Scopus, Inflibnet, Google, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). The role of green extraction solvents as promising alternatives is also elucidated. The potential enhancements of the bioavailability, stability, solubility and controlled release profile of the bioactives using different delivery systems are also presented. The current potential global market value, motivators, drivers, trends, challenges, halal, and other regulatory certifications for cosmeceuticals and nutricosmetics are equally discussed. The adoption of the suggested extractions and delivery systems would enhance the stability, bioavailability, and target delivery of the bioactives.

Development and validation of a machine learning-based model for postoperative ischemic stroke in middle-aged and elderly patients with hip or knee arthroplasty

Postoperative ischemic stroke in middle-aged and elderly patients with hip or knee arthroplasty remains a major postoperative challenge, little is known about its incidence and risk factors. This study sought to create a nomogram for precise prediction of ischemic stroke after hip or knee arthroplasty. Discharge data of all middle-aged and elderly patients undergoing primary hip or knee arthroplasty from May 2013 to October 2020 were queried. These patients were then followed up over time to determine their risk of ischemic stroke. Clinical parameters and blood biochemical features were analyzed by the use of univariable and multivariable generalized logistic regression analysis. A nomogram to predict the risk of ischemic stroke was constructed and validated with bootstrap resampling. Eight hundred twenty-eight patients were included for analysis; Fifty-one were diagnosed with ischemic stroke. After final regression analysis, age, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a standard deviation of red blood cell distribution width, American Society of Anesthesiologists, low-density lipoprotein, and diabetes were identified and were entered into the nomogram. The nomogram showed an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0. 841 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.809-0.871). The calibration curves for the probability of ischemic stroke showed optimal agreement between the probability as predicted by the nomogram and the actual probability (Hosmer-Lemeshow test: P = .818). We developed a practical nomogram that can predict the risk of ischemic stroke for middle-aged and elderly patients with hip or knee arthroplasty. This model has the potential to assist clinicians in making treatment recommendations.

Nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular aging and related diseases

Aging-induced alternations of vasculature structures, phenotypes, and functions are key in the occurrence and development of vascular aging-related diseases. Multiple molecular and cellular events, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, cellular senescence, and epigenetic alterations are highly associated with vascular aging physiopathology. Advances in nanoparticles and nanotechnology, which can realize sensitive diagnostic modalities, efficient medical treatment, and better prognosis as well as less adverse effects on non-target tissues, provide an amazing window in the field of vascular aging and related diseases. Throughout this review, we presented current knowledge on classification of nanoparticles and the relationship between vascular aging and related diseases. Importantly, we comprehensively summarized the potential of nanoparticles-based diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in vascular aging and related diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, as well as chronic kidney diseases, and discussed the advantages and limitations of their clinical applications.

Oxidative Stress Mediates the Association Between Dietary Fat Intake and Cognition in US Older Adults

OBJECTIVE

Dietary fat intake was considered as a modifiable factor influencing cognitive performance. The objective was to 1) examine the associations between different types of dietary fat intakes and cognitive outcomes among elder adults (≥60 years old); 2) assess whether peripheral oxidative stress and antioxidant biomarkers are potential mediators of dietary fat intake and cognitive impairment relationship.

METHODS

Using data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014, total fat, saturated fatty acid (SFAT), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), cholesterol, ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids were used to evaluate dietary fat intakes. Cognitive outcomes were assessed by word learning and recall modules from the consortium to establish a registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD), animal fluency test, and digit symbol substitution test (DSST). Antioxidant biomarkers were assessed by gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), bilirubin, uric acid, and vitamin D levels. Linear regression models and causal mediation analysis were applied to quantify the associations.

RESULTS

A total of 2,253 elder adults were included in the data analyses. Dietary intake of PUFA and ω-6 fatty acid were positively associated with DSST [β (95% CI): 0.06 (0.01,0.10), t statistic = 2.39, df= 2238, p = 0.02; β (95% CI): 0.06 (0.01,0.11), t statistic = 2.54, df= 2238, p = 0.01, respectively]. GGT was negatively associated with DSST [β (95% CI): -0.04 (-0.07, -0.01), t statistic = -2.73, df= 2239, p = 0.01], whereas uric acid was positively associated with CERAD total score [β (95% CI): 0.04 (0.00,0.08), t statistic = 2.03, df= 2233, p = 0.04]. The association between dietary intake of PUFA/ω -3/ω -6 and DSST performance was partially mediated by GGT level.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support that PUFAs in dietary sources were associated with lower risks for cognitive impairment partially via lowering oxidative stress. Dietary PUFA supplementation may potentially reduce risk of cognitive impairment via antioxidative mechanism.

Plant-Based Foods and Vascular Function: A Systematic Review of Dietary Intervention Trials in Older Subjects and Hypothesized Mechanisms of Action

Cardiovascular diseases, still the leading cause of mortality in the world, are closely related to vascular function. Older subjects are more susceptible to endothelial dysfunction and therefore it is important to define possible preventive or support strategies, such as consumption of foods with health-promoting effects. This systematic review aims to summarize the currently available evidence on acute or chronic trials testing the effect of selected plant-based foods on vascular function parameters in older subjects, and consider plausible mechanisms that may support the main findings. A total of 15 trials were included and analyzed, testing the effects of beetroot, plum, blueberry, and vegetable oils. We found some interesting results regarding markers of vascular reactivity, in particular for beetroot, while no effects were found for markers of arterial stiffness. The amelioration of vascular function seems to be more related to the restoration of a condition of nitric oxide impairment, exacerbated by diseases or hypoxic condition, rather than the enhancement of a physiological situation, as indicated by the limited effects on healthy older subjects or in control groups with young subjects. However, the overall set of selected studies is, in any case, rather limited and heterogeneous in terms of characteristics of the studies, indicating the need for additional high-quality intervention trials to better clarify the role of vegetable foods in restoring and/or improving vascular function in order to better elucidate the mechanisms through which these foods may exert their vascular health benefits in older subjects.

Many kinds of oxidized proteins are present more in the urine of the elderly

BACKGROUND

Many studies have shown an association between aging and oxidation. To our knowledge, there have been no studies exploring aging-related urine proteome modifications. The purpose of this study was to explore differences in global chemical modifications of urinary protein at different ages.

METHODS

Discovery (n=38) cohort MS data including children, young and old groups were downloaded from three published studies, and this data was analyzed using open-pFind for identifying modifications. Verification cohort human samples (n=28) including young, middle-aged, and old groups, rat samples (n=7) at three-time points after birth, adulthood, and old age were collected and processed in the laboratory simultaneously based on label-free quantification combined with pFind.

RESULTS

Discovery cohort: there were 28 kinds of differential oxidations in the old group that were higher than those in the young or children group in. Verification cohort: there were 17 kinds of differential oxidations of 49 oxidized proteins in the middle and old groups, which were significantly higher than those in the young group. Both oxidations and oxidized proteins distinguished different age groups well. There were also 15 kinds of differential oxidations in old age higher than others in the rat cohort. The results showed that the validation experiment was basically consistent with the results of the discovery experiment, showing that the level of oxidized proteins in urine increased significantly with age.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study is the first to show that oxidative proteins occur in urine and that oxidations are higher in older than younger ages. Perhaps improving the degree of excretion of oxidative protein in vivo through the kidney is helpful for maintaining the homeostasis of the body's internal environment, delaying aging and the occurrence of senile diseases.

Emerging Insight Into the Role of Circadian Clock Gene BMAL1 in Cellular Senescence

Cell senescence is a crucial process in cell fate determination and is involved in an extensive array of aging-associated diseases. General perceptions and experimental evidence point out that the decline of physical function as well as aging-associated diseases are often initiated by cell senescence and organ ageing. Therefore, regulation of cell senescence process can be a promising way to handle aging-associated diseases such as osteoporosis. The circadian clock regulates a wide range of cellular and physiological activities, and many age-linked degenerative disorders are associated with the dysregulation of clock genes. BMAL1 is a core circadian transcription factor and governs downstream genes by binding to the E-box elements in their promoters. Compelling evidence has proposed the role of BMAL1 in cellular senescence and aging-associated diseases. In this review, we summarize the linkage between BMAL1 and factors of cell senescence including oxidative stress, metabolism, and the genotoxic stress response. Dysregulated and dampened BMAL1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target against aging- associated diseases.

Impact of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors on Arterial Stiffness and Vascular Aging-What Do We Know So Far? (A Narrative Review)

Vascular aging, early vascular aging or supernormal vascular aging are concepts used for estimating the cardiovascular risk at a certain age. From the famous line of Thomas Sydenham that "a man is as old as his arteries" to the present day, clinical studies in the field of molecular biology of the vasculature have demonstrated the active role of vascular endothelium in the onset of cardiovascular diseases. Arterial stiffness is an important cardiovascular risk factor associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular events and a high risk of morbidity and mortality, especially in the presence of diabetes. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors decrease arterial stiffness and vascular resistance by decreasing endothelial cell activation, stimulating direct vasorelaxation and ameliorating endothelial dysfunction or expression of pro-atherogenic cells and molecules.

Exercise with blood flow restriction improves muscle strength and mass while preserving the vascular and microvascular function and structure of older adults

BACKGROUND: Changes in muscle mass, strength, vascular function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers were compared in older adults after resistance training (RT) performed with low-intensity without blood flow restriction (RT-CON); low-intensity with BFR (RT-BFR); and high-intensity without BFR (RT-HI). METHODS: Thirty-two untrained individuals (72±7 y) performed a 12-week RT after being randomized into three groups: RT-CON –30% of 1 repetition maximum (RM); RT-BFR –30% of 1RM and mild BFR (50% of arterial occlusion pressure); RT-HI –70% of 1 RM. RESULTS: Improvements in handgrip strength were similar in RT-BFR (17%) and RT-HI (16%) vs. RT-CON (–0.1% ), but increases in muscle mass (6% vs. 2% and –1%) and IGF-1 (2% vs. –0.1% and –1.5%) were greater (p <  0.05) in RT-BFR vs. RT-HI and RT-CON. Changes in vascular function, morphology, inflammation, and oxidative stress were similar between groups, except for time to reach maximum red blood cell velocity which showed a greater reduction (p <  0.05) in RT-BFR (–55%) vs. RT-HI (–11%) and RT-CON (–4% ). CONCLUSION: RT with low intensity and mild BFR improved muscle strength and mass in older individuals while preserving vascular function. This modality should be considered an adjuvant strategy to improve muscle function in older individuals with poor tolerance to high loads.

Targeting Scavenger Receptors in Inflammatory Disorders and Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress and inflammation cannot be considered as diseases themselves; however, they are major risk factors for the development and progression of the pathogenesis underlying many illnesses, such as cancer, neurological disorders (including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease), autoimmune and metabolic disorders, etc. According to the results obtained from extensive studies, oxidative stress-induced biomolecules, such as advanced oxidation protein products, advanced glycation end products, and advanced lipoxidation end products, are critical for an accelerated level of inflammation and oxidative stress-induced cellular damage, as reflected in their strong affinity to a wide range of scavenger receptors. Based on the limitations of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory molecules in practical applications, targeting such interactions between harmful molecules and their cellular receptors/signaling with advances in gene engineering technology, such as CRISPR or TALEN, may prove to be a safe and effective alternative. In this review, we summarize the findings of recent studies focused on the deletion of scavenger receptors under oxidative stress as a development in the therapeutic approaches against the diseases linked to inflammation and the contribution of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), advanced lipid peroxidation products (ALEs), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs).

Dual Relationship Between Stromal Cells and Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and is comprised of different components, including tumor cells, stromal cells, and immune cells. Among them, the relationship between each mediator involved in the construction of the TME can be understood by focusing on the secreting or expressing factors from each cells. Therefore, understanding the various interactions between each cellular component of the TME is necessary for precise therapeutic approaches. In carcinoma, stromal cells are well known to influence extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and tumor progression through multiple mediators. Immune cells respond to tumor cells by causing cytotoxicity or inflammatory responses. However, they are involved in tumor escape through immunoregulatory mechanisms. In general, anti-cancer therapy has mainly been focused on cancer cells themselves or the interactions between cancer cells and specific cell components. However, cancer cells directly or indirectly influence other TME partners, and members such as stromal cells and immune cells also participate in TME organization through their mutual communication. In this review, we summarized the relationship between stromal cells and immune cells in the TME and discussed the positive and negative relationships from the point of view of tumor development for use in research applications and therapeutic strategies.

Heart and kidney H2S production is reduced in hypertensive and older rats

The prevalence of hypertension increases with age, but the mechanisms linking this phenomenon are not well understood. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) may be involved in this process, as it plays a role in the cardiovascular system, affecting blood pressure and heart and kidney functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of hypertension and aging on sulfur-containing compounds metabolism in the hearts and kidneys of Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR) of different age groups. We determined the expression and activity of four enzymes participating in H₂S production: cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS), cystathionine gamma-lyase (CTH), 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MPST), and thiosulfate sulfurtransferase (TST). The levels of reduced/oxidized glutathione, cysteine, cystine, and cystathionine, and the ability of tissues to form hydrogen sulfide were also investigated. Tissues obtained from younger WKY rats produced the highest amounts of H₂S. The effect of hypertension on the metabolism of sulfur-containing compounds was manifested by a decrease in sulfane sulfur concentrations in heart homogenates and a decrease in CTH activity in the kidneys. The hearts and kidneys of older WKY rats were characterized by lower MPST or CTH gene expression, respectively, compared to younger animals. Our study demonstrates that hypertension and aging influence cardiac and renal sulfur-containing compounds metabolism and reduce H₂S production. Furthermore, we showed that MPST plays a major role in the production of hydrogen sulfide in the heart and CTH in the kidneys of rats.

Biology of aging: Oxidative stress and RNA oxidation

The prevalence of aged people has increased rapidly in recent years and brings profound demographic changes worldwide. The multi-level progression of aging occurs at diverse stages of complexity, from cell to organ systems and eventually to the human as a whole. The cellular and molecular damages are usually regulated by the cells; repair or degrade mechanisms. However, these mechanisms are not entirely functional; their effectiveness decreases with age due to influence from endogenous sources like oxidative stress, which all contribute to the aging process. The hunt for novel strategies to increase the man's longevity since ancient times needs better understandings of the biology of aging, oxidative stress, and their roles in RNA oxidation. The critical goal in developing new strategies to increase the man's longevity is to compile the novel developed knowledge on human aging into a single picture, preferably able to understand the biology of aging and the contributing factors. This review discusses the biology of aging, oxidative stress, and their roles in RNA oxidation, leading to aging in humans.

Bioinspired NO release coating enhances endothelial cells and inhibits smooth muscle cells

Thrombus and restenosis after stent implantation are the major complications because traditional drugs such as rapamycin delay the process of endothelialization. Nitric oxide (NO) is mainly produced by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) on the membrane of endothelial cells (ECs) in the cardiovascular system and plays an important role in vasomotor function. It strongly inhibits the proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and ameliorates endothelial function when ECs get hurt. Inspired by this, introducing NO to traditional stent coating may alleviate endothelial insufficiency caused by rapamycin. Here, we introduced SNAP as the NO donor, mimicking how NO affects in vivo, into rapamycin coating to alleviate endothelial damage while inhibiting SMC proliferation. Through wicking effects, SNAP was absorbed into a hierarchical coating that had an upper porous layer and a dense polymer layer with rapamycin at the bottom. Cells were cultured on the coatings, and it was observed that the injured ECs were restored while the growth of SMCs further diminished. Genome analysis was conducted to further clarify possible signaling pathways: the effect of cell growth attenuated by NO may cause by affecting cell cycle and enhancing inflammation. These findings supported the idea that introducing NO to traditional drug-eluting stents alleviates incomplete endothelialization and further inhibits the stenosis caused by the proliferation of SMCs.

Intestinal aging is alleviated by uridine via regulating inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro

Many countries in the world are stepping into the aging society with the challenge of the increasing agin gpopulation. The physiological functions of the human body begins to decline with aging, and the intestinal tract as the most important digestive organ will also be aging. How to relieve or reverse aging is an important scientific problem.The aging model in vivo and in vitro was established. Western-blot, indirect immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were carried out to explore the anti-aging effect of uridine.In the current study, we examined the anti-aging effect of uridine in vivo and in vitro experiments. In vitro cell model, we found that the aging level of intestinal tract was significantly reduced by uridine, uridine treatment down-regulated the Sa-β-gal-positive cells. Furthermore, the levels of inflammation and oxidative stress were also significantly reduced by uridine treatment. On this basis, in vivo experiments, we found that the aging level of mice fed with uridine was significantly lower than that of the control group as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses.In conclusion, our current research indicates that uridine shows a good anti-aging effect,which suggests that uridine is expected to be used as a health food or clinical drug to treat intestinal aging.

Mitochondrial and metabolic dysfunction in ageing and age-related diseases

Organismal ageing is accompanied by progressive loss of cellular function and systemic deterioration of multiple tissues, leading to impaired function and increased vulnerability to death. Mitochondria have become recognized not merely as being energy suppliers but also as having an essential role in the development of diseases associated with ageing, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. A growing body of evidence suggests that ageing and age-related diseases are tightly related to an energy supply and demand imbalance, which might be alleviated by a variety of interventions, including physical activity and calorie restriction, as well as naturally occurring molecules targeting conserved longevity pathways. Here, we review key historical advances and progress from the past few years in our understanding of the role of mitochondria in ageing and age-related metabolic diseases. We also highlight emerging scientific innovations using mitochondria-targeted therapeutic approaches.

Circadian rhythmicity of the thioredoxin system in cultured murine peritoneal macrophages

Macrophages play a pivotal role in atherosclerosis through a variety of events related to cellular oxidative stress. This process is mainly due to an excessive production of reactive oxygen species whose elimination occurs through antioxidant systems including the thioredoxin (Trx) system. In this paper, we investigated whether the Trx system would exhibit circadian rhythmicity in dexamethasone synchronized cultured macrophages and monitored the impact of the rhythmicity of Trx-1 on markers of atherosclerosis. We found that the clock-related genes BMAL-1, PER-2, CRY-1 and REV ERB α exhibited a robust circadian expression. However, the Trx genes family (Trx-1, Trx-2, TrxR1 and TXNIP) did not exhibit a circadian expression at the mRNA level in spite of the presence of E-box elements within the promoter regions of TrxR1 and TXNIP genes. Nevertheless, both Trx-1 and TXNIP exhibited a circadian expression at the protein level and proteasome inhibition abolished the rhythmicity of Trx-1. Moreover, we found a link between low Trx-1 level and elevated atherogenic markers such as 4-HNE, TNF-α and cholesterol accumulation in macrophages. Our results indicate that the Trx gene family does not exhibit the same circadian regulation and that the presence of E-box elements in the TXNIP promoter is not sufficient to ensure a circadian rhythmicity at the transcriptional level. In addition, since a link was found between a low level of Trx-1 protein during circadian rhythm and high levels of atherogenic markers, administration of Trx-1 at certain time points could be an interesting approach to protect against atherosclerosis development.

Cardiovascular Inflammaging: Mechanisms and Translational Aspects

Aging is one of the major non-reversible risk factors for several chronic diseases, including cancer, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and it is a key cause of multimorbidity, disability, and frailty (decreased physical activity, fatigue, and weight loss). The underlying cellular mechanisms are complex and consist of multifactorial processes, such as telomere shortening, chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulation of senescent cells, and reduced autophagy. In this review, we focused on the molecular mechanisms and translational aspects of cardiovascular aging-related inflammation, i.e., inflammaging.

Mechanism of Longevity Extension of Caenorhabditis elegans Induced by Schizophyllum commune Fermented Supernatant With Added Radix Puerariae

Schizophyllum commune (S. commune) fermented supernatant with added Radix Puerariae (SC-RP) showed significant antioxidant activity in our previous work. However, the possible lifespan and healthspan extending the capacity of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and the underlying mechanism were not illuminated. In this study, the effect of SC-RP on extending the lifespan and improving stress resistance of C. elegans were examined. Additionally, the underlying lifespan extending molecular mechanisms of SC-RP were explored. Treated with SC-RP at 10 μg/mL, the lifespan of C. elegans increased by 24.89% (P < 0.01). Also, SC-RP prolonged the healthspan of the nematode, including reducing lipofuscin levels, improving mobility and enhancing resistance to oxidative stress and heat shock. Moreover, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were increased for SC-RP treated C. elegans. Meantime the intracellular levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were attenuated. Express levels of eight genes including daf-2, daf-16, sod-3, skn-1, gst-4, clk-1, age-1 and mev-1 were analyzed by RT-PCR method for possible C. elegan anti-aging mechanisms of SC-RP. Expression levels of key genes daf-2, gst-4 and sod-3 were up-regulated, while that of daf-16, skn-1, and clk-1 were down-regulated. The results suggest that SC-RP could extend the lifespan and healthspan of C. elegans significantly, and the IIS pathway, SKN-1/Nrf2 pathway and mitochondrial metabolism pathway were primarily considered associated. Thus, SC-RP is a potential component to improve aging and aging-related symptoms as new functional materials.

Oxidation, Glycation, and Carbamylation of Salivary Biomolecules in Healthy Children, Adults, and the Elderly: Can Saliva Be Used in the Assessment of Aging?

Background

Aging is inextricably linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and posttranslational protein modifications. However, no studies evaluate oxidation, glycation, and carbamylation of salivary biomolecules as biomarkers of aging. Saliva collection is non-invasive, painless, and inexpensive, which are advantages over other biofluids.

Methods

The study enrolled 180 healthy subjects divided into six groups according to age: 6–13, 14–19, 20–39, 40–59, 60–79, and 80–100 years. The number of individuals was determined a priori based on our previous experiment (power of the test = 0.8; α = 0.05). Non-stimulated saliva and plasma were collected from participants, in which biomarkers of aging were determined by colorimetric, fluorometric, and ELISA methods.

Results

The study have demonstrated that modifications of salivary proteins increase with age, as manifested by decreased total thiol levels and increased carbonyl groups, glycation (Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine, advanced glycation end products (AGE)) and carbamylation (carbamyl-lysine) protein products in the saliva of old individuals. Oxidative modifications of lipids (4-hydroxynonenal) and nucleic acids (8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)) also increase with age. Salivary redox biomarkers correlate poorly with their plasma levels; however, salivary AGE and 8-OHdG generally reflect their blood concentrations. In the multivariate regression model, they are a predictor of aging and, in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, significantly differentiate children and adolescents (under 15 years old) from the working-age population (15–64 years) and the older people (65 years and older).

Conclusion

Salivary AGE and 8-OHdG have the most excellent diagnostic utility in assessing the aging process. Saliva can be used to evaluate the aging of the body.

Ultrasound deep learning for monitoring of flow-vessel dynamics in murine carotid artery

Several arterial diseases are closely related with mechanical properties of the blood vessel and interactions of flow-vessel dynamics such as mean flow velocity, wall shear stress (WSS) and vascular strain. However, there is an opportunity to improve the measurement accuracy of vascular properties and hemodynamics by adopting deep learning-based ultrasound imaging for flow-vessel dynamics (DL-UFV). In this study, the DL-UFV is proposed by devising an integrated neural network for super-resolved localization and vessel wall segmentation, and it is also combined with tissue motion estimation and flow measurement techniques such as speckle image velocimetry and speckle tracking velocimetry for measuring velocity field information of blood flow. Performance of the DL-UFV is verified by comparing with other conventional techniques in tissue-mimicking phantoms. After the performance verification, in vivo feasibility is demonstrated in the murine carotid artery with different pathologies: aging and diabetes mellitus (DM). The mutual comparison of flow-vessel dynamics and histological analyses shows correlations between the immunoreactive region and abnormal flow-vessel dynamics interactions. The DL-UFV improves biases in measurements of velocity, WSS, and strain with up to 4.6-fold, 15.1-fold, and 22.2-fold in the tissue-mimicking phantom, respectively. Mean flow velocities and WSS values of the DM group decrease by 30% and 20% of those of the control group, respectively. Mean flow velocities and WSS values of the aging group (34.11 cm/s and 13.17 dyne/cm²) are slightly smaller than those of the control group (36.22 cm/s and 14.25 dyne/cm²). However, the strain values of the aging and DM groups are much smaller than those of the control group (p < 0.05). This study shows that the DL-UFV performs better than the conventional ultrasound-based flow and strain measurement techniques for measuring vascular stiffness and complicated flow-vessel dynamics. Furthermore, the DL-UFV demonstrates its excellent performance in the analysis of the hemodynamic and hemorheological effects of DM and aging on the flow and vascular characteristics. This work provides useful hemodynamic information, including mean flow velocity, WSS and strain with high-resolution for diagnosing the pathogenesis of arterial diseases. This information can be used for monitoring progression and regression of atherosclerotic diseases in clinical practice.

PKCε Activation Restores Loss of PKCε, Manganese Superoxide Dismutase, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and Microvessels in Aged and Alzheimer’s Disease Hippocampus

Vascular endothelial dysfunction and capillary loss are currently considered to be a primary phenotype of normal human aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Activation of protein kinase C (PKCε) improves several molecular, cellular, physiological, and behavioral endpoints, yet it is not known whether a loss of PKCε activity occurs in the microvascular endothelium in aged and AD hippocampi, whether this loss contributes to microvascular change, or whether activation of PKCε protects against microvascular damage, an early change that induces age-associated memory defect and AD. We investigated the effect of the PKCε activation on microvascular loss in the hippocampus, important for memory storage. In cultured human brain microvascular endothelial cells, tert-butyl hydroperoxide induced oxidative stress and a decrease in manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) mRNA and protein expression that were blocked by the antioxidant drugs. The PKCε activators bryostatin and DCPLA methyl ester increased PKCε, associated with an increase in MnSOD mRNA and its protein as well as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which was inhibited by the mRNA-stabilizing HuR inhibitors. In rats (&gt;24 months old) and AD transgenic mice Tg2576 (5 months old), bryostatin or DCP-LA prevented a decrease in vascular PKCε, MnSOD, and VEGF and prevented microvascular loss and age-related memory impairment. An autopsy-confirmed AD hippocampus showed a decrease in PKCε and MnSOD mRNAs and their proteins and VEGF as well as in microvascular density compared to non-AD controls. In conclusion, the PKCε activation can rescue a decrease in PKCε, MnSOD, and VEGF via posttranscription regulation and alleviate oxidative stress, and in doing so, prevent microvascular loss during aging and AD.

Hsp90 S-nitrosylation at Cys521, as a conformational switch, modulates cycling of Hsp90-AHA1-CDC37 chaperone machine to aggravate atherosclerosis

Endothelial dysfunction is the initial process of atherosclerosis. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), as a molecular chaperone, plays a crucial role in various cardiovascular diseases. Hsp90 function is regulated by S-nitrosylation (SNO). However, the precise role of SNO-Hsp90 in endothelial dysfunction during atherosclerosis remains unclear. We here identified Hsp90 as a highly S-nitrosylated target in endothelial cells (ECs) by biotin switch assay combined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The elevation of SNO-Hsp90 was observed in atherosclerotic human and rodent aortas as well as in oxidized LDL (oxLDL)-treated ECs. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) or transfection with Hsp90 cysteine 521 (Cys521) mutation plasmid decreased the level of SNO-Hsp90 in oxLDL-cultured ECs. Coimmunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assay demonstrated that SNO-Hsp90 at Cys521 suppressed the interaction between Hsp90 and activator of Hsp90 ATPase activity 1 (AHA1), but promoted the association of Hsp90 and cell division cycle 37 (CDC37). Hsp90 Cys521 mutation increased endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity and inhibited nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling, thereby increasing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and alleviating endothelial adhesion, inflammation and oxidative stress in oxLDL-treated ECs. Also, administration of endothelial-specific adeno-associated viruses of Cys521-mutated Hsp90 significantly mitigated vascular oxidative stress, macrophage infiltration and atherosclerosis lesion areas in high fat diet-fed ApoE^-/- mice. In conclusion, SNO-Hsp90 at Cys521, that serves as a conformational switch, disrupts Hsp90/AHA1 interaction but promotes recruitment of CDC37 to exacerbate atherosclerosis.

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Hsp90 S-nitrosylation at Cys521 acts as a conformational switch to modulate Hsp90/AHA1 and Hsp90/CDC37 interaction.

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SNO-Hsp90 induces endothelial adhesion, inflammation and oxidative stress.

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SNO-Hsp90 mediates endothelial dysfunction to exacerbate atherosclerosis.

Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction in the Thoracic Aorta of Rats with Ischemic Acute Kidney Injury: Contribution of Indoxyl Sulfate

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease are known to be linked, and the involvement of indoxyl sulfate (IS), a type of uremic toxin, has been suggested as one of the causes. It is known that IS induces vascular dysfunction through overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the other hand, the involvement of IS in the vascular dysfunction associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) is not fully understood. Therefore, we investigated this issue using the thoracic aorta of rats with ischemic AKI. Ischemic AKI was induced by occlusion of the left renal artery and vein for 45 min, followed by reperfusion 2 weeks after contralateral nephrectomy. One day after reperfusion, there was marked deterioration in renal function evidenced by an increase in plasma creatinine. Furthermore, blood IS levels increased markedly due to worsening renal function. Seven days and 28 days after reperfusion, blood IS levels decreased with the improvement in renal function. Of note, acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation deteriorated over time after reperfusion, contradicting the recovery of renal function. In addition, 28 days after reperfusion, we observed a significant increase in ROS production in the vascular tissue. Next, we administered AST-120, a spherical adsorbent charcoal, after reperfusion to assess whether the vascular endothelial dysfunction associated with the ischemic AKI was due to a temporary increase in blood IS levels. AST-120 reduced the temporary increase in blood IS levels after reperfusion without influencing renal function, but did not restore the impaired vascular reactivity. Thus, in ischemic AKI, we confirmed that the vascular endothelial function of the thoracic aorta is impaired even after the recovery of kidney injury, probably with excessive ROS production. IS, which increases from ischemia to early after reperfusion, may not be a major contributor to the vascular dysfunction associated with ischemic AKI.

Dose- and Intensity-Response Associations Between Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Older Adults

This study aimed to investigate the dose- and intensity-response associations between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in older adults. Multivariable linear regression was performed to evaluate the associations among 3,559 older adults in 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. LTPA was negatively associated with inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein, segmented neutrophil count and alkaline phosphatase, and positively associated with one marker of antioxidants albumin in older adults. Compared with vigorous LTPA, moderate LTPA could provide more benefits through further decreasing white blood cell count and alkaline phosphatase, and increasing serum bilirubin and albumin. The effects of LTPA on C-reactive protein and albumin were more significant in participants with chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the dose- and intensity-response effects of LTPA on inflammation and oxidative stress and provides exercise prescription recommendations for older adults.

Rheological Abnormalities in Human Erythrocytes Subjected to Oxidative Inflammation

Erythrocytes are oxygen carriers and exposed to redox cycle in oxygenation and deoxygenation of hemoglobin. This indicates that circulating erythrocytes are vulnerable to the oxidative injury occurring under the imbalance of redox homeostasis. In this review article, two topics are presented concerning the human erythrocytes exposed to the oxidative inflammation including septic and sterile conditions. First, we demonstrate rheological derangement of erythrocytes subjected to acute oxidative injury caused by exogenous generators of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Erythrocyte filterability as whole-cell deformability has been estimated by the gravity-based nickel mesh filtration technique in our laboratory and was dramatically impaired in a time-dependent manner after starting exposure to the ROS generators, that is associated with concurrent progression of membrane protein degradation, phospholipid peroxidation, erythrocyte swelling, methemoglobin formation, and oxidative hemolysis. Second, we introduce an impairment of erythrocyte filterability confirmed quantitatively in diabetes mellitus and hypertension of animal models and patients under treatment. Among the cell geometry, internal viscosity, and membrane property as the three major determinants of erythrocyte deformability, erythrocyte membrane alteration is supposed to be the primary cause of this impairment in these lifestyle-related diseases associated with persistent oxidative inflammation. Excessive ROS trigger the inflammatory responses and reduce the erythrocyte membrane fluidity. Oxidative inflammation increasing erythrocyte membrane rigidity underlies the impaired systemic microcirculation, which is observed in diabetic and/or hypertensive patients. On the other hand, elevated internal viscosity caused by sickle hemoglobin polymerization is a primary cause of impaired erythrocyte filterability in sickle cell disease (SCD). However, oxidative inflammation is also involved in the pathophysiology of SCD. The physiologic level of ROS acts as signaling molecules for adaptation to oxidative environment, but the pathological level of ROS induces suicidal erythrocyte death (eryptosis). These findings provide further insight into the ROS-related pathophysiology of many clinical conditions.

Green Tea Polyphenols Upregulate the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway and Suppress Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Markers in D-Galactose-Induced Liver Aging in Mice

The beneficial effects of green tea polyphenols (GTPs) on D-galactose (D-Gal)-induced liver aging in male Kunming mice were investigated. For this purpose, 40 adult male Kunming mice were divided into four groups. All animals, except for the normal control and GTPs control, were intraperitoneally injected with D-galactose (D-Gal; 300 mg/kg/day for 5 days a week) for 12 consecutive weeks, and the D-Gal-treated mice were allowed free access to 0.05% GTPs (w/w) diet or normal diet for 12 consecutive weeks. Results showed that GTP administration improved the liver index and decreased transaminases and total bilirubin levels. Furthermore, GTPs significantly increased hepatic glutathione and total antioxidant levels, and the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Furthermore, GTPs downregulated 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, advanced glycation end products, and hepatic oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde and nitric oxide. Additionally, GTPs abrogated dysregulation in hepatic Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream target gene expression [heme oxygenase 1, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1, and GST] and inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β, and interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in the liver of treated mice. Finally, GTPs effectively attenuated D-Gal-induced edema, vacuole formation, and inflammatory cell infiltration. In conclusion, GTPs showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in D-Gal-induced aging mice, and may be considered a natural alternative to the effects of hepatic aging.