Obesity, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis and chronic periodontitis: a shared pathology via oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction?

Metformin promotes osteogenic differentiation and protects against oxidative stress-induced damage in periodontal ligament stem cells via activation of the Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway

Periodontal ligament stem cell (PDLSC)-based tissue engineering is an important method for regenerating lost bone in periodontitis. Maintaining or enhancing the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, as well as enhancing the resistance of PDLSCs to oxidative stress, is necessary in this process. As a common hypoglycemic drug, metformin has been reported to have multiple effects on cell functions. This study found that low concentrations of metformin did not affect cell proliferation but did inhibit adipogenic differentiation and promote osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. This positive effect was associated with activation of Akt signaling by metformin. Moreover, applying metformin as either a pretreatment or co-treatment could reduce the amount of reactive oxygen species, enhance antioxidant capacity, and rescue the cell viability and osteogenic differentiation that were negatively affected by H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in PDLSCs. In addition, metformin was found to activate the Nrf2 signaling pathway in PDLSCs, and knockdown of Nrf2 by siRNA impaired the protective effect of metformin. Taken together, these results indicate that metformin not only promotes osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, but also protects PDLSCs against oxidative stress-induced damage, suggesting that metformin could be potentially useful in promoting PDLSC-based bone regeneration in the treatment of periodontitis.

Influence of Periodontal Disease on cardiovascular markers in Diabetes Mellitus patients

The objective of the present study was to establish if individuals with Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) and periodontal diseases (gingivitis or periodontitis) presented an increase in the concentration of modified LDL (moLDL) and what is the influence of periodontal treatment on the decrease of moLDL particles with consequent improvement in the parameters of DM2. Twenty-four diabetic patients with periodontitis (Group 1) and twenty-four diabetic patients with gingivitis (Group 2) were followed up for a period of 12 months. Group 1 was treated with periodontal debridement, and Group 2 received supra-gingival scaling and prophylaxis. In both groups, periodontal clinical parameters: probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival resection (GR), bleeding on probing index (BOP) and plaque index; inflammatory serum markers (glycemia, A1c, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), triglycerides and hs-CRP) and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) were measured at baseline, t = 6 and t = 12 months after treatment. Solutions of LDL were analyzed using the nonlinear optical Z-Scan and optical absorption techniques. The periodontal clinical parameters showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) in both Group after 12 months. For both groups, total cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c, triglycerides and A1c levels did not show significant reductions after periodontal therapy. hs-CRP levels in Group 1 presented a significant reduction after 12 months. The glycemic rate and the oxLDL concentrations did not show significant differences as a function of time. The optical measurements of LDL solutions revealed an improvement of the LDL-c quality in both groups. Periodontal debridement was able to improve periodontal parameters and the quality of LDL-c in diabetic patients but without changes in the oxLDL concentration in both groups. Considering the clinical relevance, the reduction of infectious and inflammatory sites present in the oral cavity through periodontal therapy may help with the control and prevention of hyperglycemia and precursors of cardiovascular diseases.

Quantitative Evaluation of Porphyromonas gingivalis in Indian Subjects With Chronic Periodontitis by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

Background and Aims:

Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis) is considered as an important pathogen responsible for periodontal disease which is characterized by inflammation of gingiva and destruction of periodontal ligament and alveolar bone leading to loss of tooth. Along with clinical investigations, suitable microbiological analysis needs to be performed which could provide more insight into the disease severity. We aim to quantify P. gingivalis by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and analyze its association with demographic data including clinical parameters.

Materials and Methods:

The study consisted of chronic periodontitis patients (CP group) and healthy subjects (H group) with 120 samples in each group. RT-PCR was carried out by the SYBR Green assay to target 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid species-specific region of P. gingivalis. Standard strain of P. gingivalis ATCC 33277 was used as a control.

Results:

In the CP group, 79.16% samples were found positive for P. gingivalis, whereas 29.17% samples were positive in the H group. A significant difference was found when the prevalence was compared within males and females ( P < .001 for both). In the older age groups, we found a higher rate of detection of P. gingivalis. As analyzed by Spearman’s correlation test, the number of cells of P. gingivalis was significantly associated with probing depth ( P = .02) and clinical attachment level ( P = .01) in the CP group. The mean cell number of P. gingivalis was found to be increasing with increasing levels of probing depth and clinical attachment level ( P < .001 and P = .01, respectively).

Conclusion:

The present study reaffirms that the P. gingivalis microbe is significantly associated with the chronic periodontitis and that its level varies with the severity of the disease. Colonization of the bacterium is significantly associated with severe forms of the disease.

[Role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of periodontitis]

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues initiated by oral biofilm. Cellular autophagy is an effective weapon against bacterial infection. Recent studies have shown that autophagy not only promotes the removal of bacteria and toxins from infected cells, but also helps to suppress the inflammatory response to maintain the homeostasis of intracellular environment, which is closely related to the development of periodontitis. Here, we reviewed the relationship between autophagy and periodontitis from three aspects: the interactions between autophagy and periodontal pathogen infection, the regulation of autophagy and immune inflammatory responses, and the relationship between autophagy and alveolar bone metabolism. We aim to provide ideas for further study on the mechanisms of autophagy and periodontitis, and ultimately contribute to a better prevention and treatment of periodontitis.

Core-shell nanofibers as drug delivery systems

Core-shell nanofibers have grown in popularity over the last decade owing to their special features and their many applications in biomedicine. They can be produced by electrospinning of immiscible polymer blends or emulsions through a single nozzle or by electrospinning using a coaxial nozzle. Several of the electrospinning parameters allow great versatility for the compositions and diameters of core-shell nanofibers to be produced. Morphology of core-shell nanofibers can be investigated using transmission electron microscopy and, in some cases, scanning electron microscopy. Several studies have shown that core-shell nanofibers have some advantages over monolithic nanofibers, such as better drug, protein, gene or probiotic incorporation into the nanofibers, greater control over drug release, and maintenance of protein structure and activity during electrospinning. We herein review the production and characterization of core-shell nanofibers, the critical parameters that affect their development, and their advantages as delivery systems.

Fibroblasts Collagen Production and Histological Alterations in Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis is a disorder for which the etiology remains unknown. We aimed to evaluate the fibroblasts and histological alterations to give new clues. A father and a daughter of a family showing gingival hereditary fibromatosis were treated, and gingival biopsies were obtained. A histological study revealed dense fibrous tissue, basal lamina disruption, and epithelial cell migration into the connective tissue. Fibroblasts were cultured from the father and daughter and compared with those from a healthy control patient. The results of the biochemical analysis showed increased collagen synthesis, reduced antioxidant CoQ₁₀ content, and high levels of lipid peroxidation. Additionally, fibroblasts culture incubation with the oxidant H₂O₂ increased collagen levels that have been reduced by the addition of the antioxidant CoQ₁₀. We conclude that some fibroblasts metabolic alterations play a significant role in initiating and maintaining persistent fibrotic tissue. Oxidative stress influences the fibroblasts collagen production and could play a particular role in the pathogenesis of hereditary gingival fibromatosis.

Evaluating All Potential Oral Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with several microvascular and macrovascular complications, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular diseases. The pathogenesis of these complications is complex, and involves metabolic and hemodynamic disturbances, including hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and immune dysfunction. These disturbances initiate several damaging processes, such as increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, inflammation, and ischemia. These processes mainly exert their damaging effect on endothelial and nerve cells, hence the susceptibility of densely vascularized and innervated sites, such as the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Since the oral cavity is also highly vascularized and innervated, oral complications can be expected as well. The relationship between DM and oral diseases has received considerable attention in the past few decades. However, most studies only focus on periodontitis, and still approach DM from the limited perspective of elevated blood glucose levels only. In this review, we will assess other potential oral complications as well, including: dental caries, dry mouth, oral mucosal lesions, oral cancer, taste disturbances, temporomandibular disorders, burning mouth syndrome, apical periodontitis, and peri-implant diseases. Each oral complication will be briefly introduced, followed by an assessment of the literature studying epidemiological associations with DM. We will also elaborate on pathogenic mechanisms that might explain associations between DM and oral complications. To do so, we aim to expand our perspective of DM by not only considering elevated blood glucose levels, but also including literature about the other important pathogenic mechanisms, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and immune dysfunction.

New insights into oxidative stress and inflammation during diabetes mellitus-accelerated atherosclerosis

Oxidative stress and inflammation interact in the development of diabetic atherosclerosis. Intracellular hyperglycemia promotes production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased formation of intracellular advanced glycation end-products, activation of protein kinase C, and increased polyol pathway flux. ROS directly increase the expression of inflammatory and adhesion factors, formation of oxidized-low density lipoprotein, and insulin resistance. They activate the ubiquitin pathway, inhibit the activation of AMP-protein kinase and adiponectin, decrease endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity, all of which accelerate atherosclerosis. Changes in the composition of the gut microbiota and changes in microRNA expression that influence the regulation of target genes that occur in diabetes interact with increased ROS and inflammation to promote atherosclerosis. This review highlights the consequences of the sustained increase of ROS production and inflammation that influence the acceleration of atherosclerosis by diabetes. The potential contributions of changes in the gut microbiota and microRNA expression are discussed.

Enhanced Oxidative Damage and Nrf2 Downregulation Contribute to the Aggravation of Periodontitis by Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a well-recognized risk factor for periodontitis. The goal of the present study was to elucidate whether oxidative stress and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) participate in the aggravation of periodontitis by diabetes. For this purpose, we assigned Wistar rats to control, periodontitis, diabetes, and diabetic periodontitis groups. Two weeks after induction of diabetes by streptozotocin, periodontitis was induced by ligation. Two weeks later, periodontal tissues and blood were harvested and analyzed by stereomicroscopy, immunohistochemistry, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. We found that ligation induced more severe bone loss and periodontal cell apoptosis in diabetic rats than in normal rats (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, periodontitis significantly enhanced local oxidative damage (elevated expression of 3-nitrotyrosine, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, and 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine), whereas diabetes significantly increased systemic oxidative damage and suppressed antioxidant capacity (increased malondialdehyde expression and decreased superoxide dismutase activity) (p < 0.05). Simultaneous periodontitis and diabetes synergistically aggravated both local and systemic oxidative damage (p < 0.05); this finding was strongly correlated with the more severe periodontal destruction in diabetic periodontitis. Furthermore, gene and protein expression of Nrf2 was significantly downregulated in diabetic periodontitis (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis indicated that the reduced Nrf2 expression was strongly correlated with the aggravated periodontal destruction and oxidative damage in diabetic periodontitis. We conclude that enhanced local and systemic oxidative damage and Nrf2 downregulation contribute to the development and progression of diabetic periodontitis.

Antioxidant activity of proteins extracted from red alga dulse harvested in Japan

In this study, we investigated antioxidant activity of proteins from the red alga dulse (Palmaria sp.) harvested in Hokkaido, Japan. The dulse proteins that contain phycoerythrin (PE) as the main component showed a high radical scavenging activity. To clarify the key constituent of antioxidant activity in dulse proteins, we prepared recombinant dulse PE β-subunit (rPEβ) (apoprotein) and chromophores from the dulse proteins. As a result, the rPEβ showed lower radical scavenging activity than that of dulse proteins. On the other hand, the dulse chromophores composed mainly of phycoerythrobilin (PEB) indicated extremely higher radical scavenging activity (90.4% ± 0.1%) than that of dulse proteins (17.9% ± 0.1%) on ABTS assay. In addition, on cell viability assay using human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, the dulse chromophores showed extracellular and intracellular cytoprotective effects against H₂ O₂ -induced cell damage. From these data, we concluded that the dulse proteins have antioxidant ability and the activity principally derives from the chromophores. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Dulse is an abundant and underused resource, which contains a lot of proteins, especially phycoerythrin. We here demonstrated that the practically prepared dulse proteins possessed antioxidant activity and clarified that chromophores from the dulse proteins were the key components. Therefore, the dulse proteins have a potential for functional material.

Five-year exposure to PM2.5 and ozone and subclinical atherosclerosis in late midlife women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation

INTRODUCTION

Effects of more than one-year exposure to air pollution on atherosclerosis is seldom studied. This paper aims to examine the association between five-year exposure to particulate matter ≤2.5 μm (PM_2.5), ozone (O₃) and atherosclerosis observed about seven years later in late midlife women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study was conducted among 1188 women of the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) from five sites, Detroit, MI; Oakland, CA; Pittsburgh, PA; Chicago, IL; and Newark, NJ, with available data on both air pollutant exposure and carotid ultrasound scans. Five-year mean annualized exposure levels of two air pollutants, PM_2.5 and ozone (O₃), were collected during 5 SWAN visits (1999-2005) from monitors 20 km within the participant's residential address. Linear regression models were used to estimate the association of prior five-year mean annualized exposure to PM_2.5 and O₃ with common carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and inter-adventitial diameter (IAD) examined approximately seven years later (2009-2013). Logistic and multinomial logistic regressions were applied to assess the associations of air pollutants with plaque presence and plaque index, respectively.

RESULTS

At time of carotid ultrasound scan, women were on average 59.6 (±2.7) years old and a majority was postmenopausal (88.4%). The women were White (48.4%), Black (31.2%), Chinese (13.3%) and Hispanic (7.1%). A 1 μg/m³ higher 5-year mean annualized exposure to PM_2.5 was associated with an 8.0 μm (95% CI: 1.0-15.1) greater maximum cIMT at a later mid-life, adjusting for cardiovascular disease risk factors; but was only related to IAD after adjusting for site. No association was found between either pollutant and plaque presence or plaque index.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to PM_2.5 may contribute to elevated risk of atherosclerosis in the post-menopausal period.

Inhibitory Effect of Astaxanthin on Oxidative Stress-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction-A Mini-Review

Oxidative stress is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of various human diseases as well as to the aging process. Mitochondria, as the center of cellular metabolism and major regulators of redox balance, play a critical role in disease development and progression. Mitochondrial dysfunction involving structural and metabolic impairment is prominent in oxidative stress-related diseases. Increased oxidative stress can damage mitochondria, and subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction generates excesses of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species that cause cellular damage. Mitochondrial dysfunction also activates the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, resulting in cellular death. Astaxanthin, a red-colored xanthophyll carotenoid, exerts an anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effect on various cell lines. In this manner astaxanthin maintains mitochondrial integrity under various pathological conditions. In this review, the inhibitory effects of astaxanthin on oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and related disease development are discussed.

Oleanolic acid protects against oxidative stress‑induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury by activating AKT/eNOS signaling

Oxidative injury of vascular endothelial cells in the initial event of atherosclerosis (AS) in diabetes was assessed in the present study. The antioxidant effect of oleanolic acid (OA) has attracted much attention. In the present study the potential effects of OA on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were investigated. Cell viability was examined using the CCK‑8 assay. The activity of oxidative stress parameters was determined using commercial kits. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to detect the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and cell apoptosis. The expression levels of target genes and proteins were examined by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and western blot analysis. It was indicated that cell viability that was suppressed by high glucose was increased by the pretreatment of OA, and nitric oxide (NO) generation, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were recovered by OA. By contrast, it was observed that OA decreased the MDA content. Notably, the pretreatment of OA alleviated mitochondria damage by reducing the level of ROS and maintaining MMP. In addition, apoptosis that was caused by high glucose was reduced by OA. Pro‑apoptotic genes (caspase‑3, Fas, Fasl) and anti‑apoptotic gene (Bcl‑2) expression levels were decreased and increased in the OA groups, respectively. Furthermore, the activity of AKT/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling was elevated by OA. Taken together, it was suggested that OA could protect against oxidative stress‑induced apoptosis of HUVECs, which was associated with AKT/eNOS signaling pathway.

The association between periodontal disease severity and metabolic syndrome in Vietnamese patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between periodontal disease severity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a group of Vietnamese patients.

METHODS

A total of 412 participants (114 males, 298 females, average age 57.8 ± 5.7 years) including 206 patients with MetS and 206 participants without MetS were selected for this study. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, dental behaviours and smoking status was collected from a self-administrated questionnaire. Periodontal status including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) pocket depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) was recorded. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between severity of periodontal disease and MetS with adjustments for related confounders.

RESULTS

The prevalence of moderate and severe periodontitis assessed by GI, PD and CAL was all significantly higher in the MetS group than in the control group and was significantly increased by a number of MetS components. Logistic regression, adjusted for confounders, showed that people with mean PI ≥2.51 or GI ≥1.01 or number of teeth with bleeding on probing of ≥20 teeth or PD ≥3.66 or CAL ≥3.66 showed a significant association with greater OR for MetS compared to counterparts (P < .05). The OR for MetS was 4.06 (95% CI 2.11-7.84) in severe periodontitis patients compared to non-periodontitis participants (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Much severe and extensive periodontal disease was found in MetS participants and increased with number of MetS components. Participants with higher periodontal parameters had a higher risk of MetS.

Evidence summary: The relationship between oral diseases and diabetes

Introduction This paper is the third of four rapid reviews undertaken to explore the relationships between oral health and general medical conditions in order to support teams within Public Health England, health practitioners and policymakers.Aims This review aimed to explore the nature of the association between poor oral health and diabetes when found in the same individuals or populations, having reviewed the most contemporary evidence in the field.Methods The reviews were undertaken by four groups each comprising consultant clinicians from medicine and dentistry, trainees, public health and academics. The methodology involved a streamlined rapid review process and synthesis of the findings.Results The results identified a number of systematic reviews of low to high quality suggesting that diabetes is associated with periodontal disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer in particular, and that the management of oral diseases, most notably periodontal care, has a short-term beneficial influence on metabolic outcomes related to diabetes; however, there is no evidence that this is sustained over the long-term and reduces the prevalence of the long-term complications.Conclusion Current evidence, of mixed quality, suggests a number of associations between oral diseases and diabetes mellitus (diabetes). Further high quality research is required in this field.

Radiation-induced inflammation and autoimmune diseases

Currently, ionizing radiation (IR) plays a key role in the agricultural and medical industry, while accidental exposure resulting from leakage of radioactive sources or radiological terrorism is a serious concern. Exposure to IR has various detrimental effects on normal tissues. Although an increased risk of carcinogenesis is the best-known long-term consequence of IR, evidence has shown that other diseases, particularly diseases related to inflammation, are common disorders among irradiated people. Autoimmune disorders are among the various types of immune diseases that have been investigated among exposed people. Thyroid diseases and diabetes are two autoimmune diseases potentially induced by IR. However, the precise mechanisms of IR-induced thyroid diseases and diabetes remain to be elucidated, and several studies have shown that chronic increased levels of inflammatory cytokines after exposure play a pivotal role. Thus, cytokines, including interleukin-1(IL-1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ), play a key role in chronic oxidative damage following exposure to IR. Additionally, these cytokines change the secretion of insulin and thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH). It is likely that the management of inflammation and oxidative damage is one of the best strategies for the amelioration of these diseases after a radiological or nuclear disaster. In the present study, we reviewed the evidence of radiation-induced diabetes and thyroid diseases, as well as the potential roles of inflammatory responses. In addition, we proposed that the mitigation of inflammatory and oxidative damage markers after exposure to IR may reduce the incidence of these diseases among individuals exposed to radiation.

Probing depth is an independent risk factor for HbA1c levels in diabetic patients under physical training: a cross-sectional pilot-study

BACKGROUND

This cross-sectional study investigates the potential association between active periodontal disease and high HbA1c levels in type-2-diabetes mellitus subjects under physical training.

METHODS

Women and men with a diagnosis of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and ongoing physical and an ongoing exercise program were included. Periodontal conditions were assessed according to the CDC-AAP case definitions. Venous blood samples were collected for the quantitative analysis of HbA1c. Associations between the variables were examined with univariate and multivariate regression models.

RESULTS

Forty-four subjects with a mean age of 63.4 ± 7.0 years were examined. Twenty-nine subjects had no periodontitis, 11 had a moderate and 4 had a severe form of periodontal disease. High fasting serum glucose (p < 0.0001), high BMI scores (p = 0.001), low diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.030) and high probing depth (p = 0.036) were significantly associated with high HbA1c levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study HbA1c levels are positively associated with high probing pocket depth in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus under physical exercise training. Control and management of active periodontal diseases in non-insulin-dependent patients with diabetes mellitus is reasonable in order to maximize therapeutic outcome of lifestyle interventions.

Effects of exercise in a cold environment on transcriptional control of PGC-1α

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) mRNA is increased with both exercise and exposure to cold temperature. However, transcriptional control has yet to be examined during exercise in the cold. Additionally, the need for environmental cold exposure after exercise may not be a practical recovery modality. The purpose of this study was to determine mitochondrial-related gene expression and transcriptional control of PGC-1α following exercise in a cold compared with room temperature environment. Eleven recreationally trained males completed two 1-h cycling bouts in a cold (7°C) or room temperature (20°C) environment, followed by 3 h of supine recovery in standard room conditions. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis preexercise, postexercise, and after a 3-h recovery. Gene expression and transcription factor binding to the PGC-1α promoter were analyzed. PGC-1α mRNA increased from preexercise to 3 h of recovery, but there was no difference between trials. Estrogen-related receptor-α (ERRα), myocyte enhancer factor-2 (MEF2A), and nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1) mRNA were lower in cold than at room temperature. Forkhead box class-O (FOXO1) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) binding to the PGC-1α promoter were increased postexercise and at 3 h of recovery. MEF2A binding increased postexercise, and activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) binding increased at 3 h of recovery. These data indicate no difference in PGC-1α mRNA or transcriptional control after exercise in cold versus room temperature and 3 h of recovery. However, the observed reductions in the mRNA of select transcription factors downstream of PGC-1α indicate a potential influence of exercise in the cold on the transcriptional response related to mitochondrial biogenesis.

SIRT3 deficiency exacerbates p53/Parkin‑mediated mitophagy inhibition and promotes mitochondrial dysfunction: Implication for aged hearts

Mitochondrial dynamics have critical roles in aging, and their impairment represents a prominent risk factor for myocardial dysfunction. Mitochondrial deacetylase sirtuin (SIRT)3 contributes greatly to the prevention of redox stress and cell aging. The present study explored the role of SIRT3 on myocardium aging. Western blot analysis demonstrated that SIRT3 expression levels were significantly lower in the myocardia of aged mice compared with young mice. Immunoprecipitation and western blot assays indicated that the activity of mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor γ coactivator (PGC)‑1α was reduced in the aged heart. To further explore the association between SIRT3 and myocardial senescence, SIRT3 heart‑specific knockout (SIRT3-/-) mice were used in the present study. The results revealed that obvious features of aging were present in the myocardium of SIRT3-/- mice, including mitochondrial protein dysfunction, enhanced oxidative stress, and energy metabolism dysfunction. SIRT3 deficiency impaired Parkin‑mediated mitophagy by increasing p53‑Parkin binding and blocking the mitochondrial translocation of Parkin in cardiomyocytes. Injection of autophagy agonist CCCP significantly increased the mitochondrial Parkin level in young wild‑type hearts but not in aged hearts; the effect was less pronounced in SIRT3-/- hearts. These data suggest that CCCP‑induced Parkin translocation was reduced in aged and SIRT3-/- hearts. CCCP‑induced mitochondrial clearance, which could be rescued by autophagy antagonist bafilomycin‑A1, was markedly weakened in aged and SIRT3-/- hearts vs. young hearts. SIRT3 deficiency exacerbated p53/Parkin‑mediated mitophagy inhibition and disrupted mitochondrial homeostasis, suggesting that loss of SIRT3 may increase the susceptibility of aged hearts to cardiac dysfunction. Therapeutic activation of SIRT3 and improved mitochondrial function may ameliorate the symptoms of cardiac aging.

Peri-implant conditions and levels of advanced glycation end products among patients with different glycemic control

BACKGROUND

A close relationship between poor glycemic control and peri-implant break down has been demonstrated. It is hypothesized that levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) are higher with increased glycemic levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

PURPOSE

In the present study, we examined the clinical and radiographic peri-implant parameters and levels of AGEs among different glycemic levels in diabetic patients and assessed whether the levels of AGEs correlate with clinical peri-implant parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-three patients who participated in this study were divided into four groups; Group-1: HbA1c 6.1%-8%; Group-2: HbA1c 8.1%-10%; Group-3: HbA1c > 10%; Group-4: non-diabetic individuals with HbA1c < 6%. Peri-implant plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and crestal bone loss (CBL) were recorded. Levels of AGEs in PISF were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Between-group comparison of means was verified with Kruskal-Wallis test and Pearson correlation coefficient for correlations of AGE levels with peri-implant parameters.

RESULTS

Peri-implant PI, BOP, PD, and CBL were significantly higher in group-1, -2, and -3 as compared to non-diabetic patients (P < .05). These parameters were significantly higher in group-2 and group-3 versus group-1 (P < .01). Mean PI, BOP, PD, and CBL were comparable between group-2 and group-3 patients (P > .05). Mean levels of AGEs in PISF were significantly higher in relation to higher levels of HbA1c levels. Significant positive correlations were found between AGEs and PD (P = .0221) and CBL (P = .0425); and significant negative correlation was found for PI (P = .0376) in patients with HbA1c levels >10%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and radiographic peri-implant parameters were poor and levels of AGEs were significantly high in patients with high glycemic levels. These findings suggest that AGEs may be considered as potential marker of inflammation in diabetic individuals with peri-implantitis.

Zanthoxylum ailanthoides Suppresses Oleic Acid-Induced Lipid Accumulation through an Activation of LKB1/AMPK Pathway in HepG2 Cells

Zanthoxylum ailanthoides (ZA) has been used as folk medicines in East Asian and recently reported to have several bioactivity; however, the studies of ZA on the regulation of triacylglycerol (TG) biosynthesis have not been elucidated yet. In this study, we examined whether the methanol extract of ZA (ZA-M) could reduce oleic acid- (OA-) induced intracellular lipid accumulation and confirmed its mode of action in HepG2 cells. ZA-M was shown to promote the phosphorylation of AMPK and its upstream LKB1, followed by reduction of lipogenic gene expressions. As a result, treatment of ZA-M blocked de novo TG biosynthesis and subsequently mitigated intracellular neutral lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells. ZA-M also inhibited OA-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and TNF-α, suggesting that ZA-M possess the anti-inflammatory feature in fatty acid over accumulated condition. Taken together, these results suggest that ZA-M attenuates OA-induced lipid accumulation and inflammation through the activation of LKB1/AMPK signaling pathway in HepG2 cells.

Timing of food intake impacts daily rhythms of human salivary microbiota: a randomized, crossover study

The composition of the diet (what we eat) has been widely related to the microbiota profile. However, whether the timing of food consumption (when we eat) influences microbiota in humans is unknown. A randomized, crossover study was performed in 10 healthy normal-weight young women to test the effect of the timing of food intake on the human microbiota in the saliva and fecal samples. More specifically, to determine whether eating late alters daily rhythms of human salivary microbiota, we interrogated salivary microbiota in samples obtained at 4 specific time points over 24 h, to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between food timing and metabolic alterations in humans. Results revealed significant diurnal rhythms in salivary diversity and bacterial relative abundance ( i.e., TM7 and Fusobacteria) across both early and late eating conditions. More importantly, meal timing affected diurnal rhythms in diversity of salivary microbiota toward an inverted rhythm between the eating conditions, and eating late increased the number of putative proinflammatory taxa, showing a diurnal rhythm in the saliva. In a randomized, crossover study, we showed for the first time the impact of the timing of food intake on human salivary microbiota. Eating the main meal late inverts the daily rhythm of salivary microbiota diversity which may have a deleterious effect on the metabolism of the host.-Collado, M. C., Engen, P. A., Bandín, C., Cabrera-Rubio, R., Voigt, R. M., Green, S. J., Naqib, A., Keshavarzian, A., Scheer, F. A. J. L., Garaulet, M. Timing of food intake impacts daily rhythms of human salivary microbiota: a randomized, crossover study.

Prevalence of comorbidities in periodontitis patients compared with the general Austrian population

BACKGROUND

The majority of patients with periodontitis present with comorbidities, however only little is known on prevalence of these comorbidities in comparison with the general population. This study aims to analyze the prevalence and impact of comorbidities in patients with periodontitis in Austria.

METHODS

Prevalence of comorbidities was evaluated in 1,199 patients with periodontitis (median age: 49, range: 14 to 83 years). These data were compared with a randomly selected age- and sex-matched cohort of the Austrian population by an unconditional logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Comorbidities were found in 821 of 1,199 (68.5%) patients. Allergies had the highest prevalence (29.2%), followed by hypertension (19.4%), musculoskeletal (11.2%), and endocrine disorders (9.7%). Chronic pulmonary disorders (no influenza/pneumonia) were associated with a higher approximal plaque index (72% versus 63%, P = 0.02). No association between characteristics of periodontitis and comorbidities was observed. Prevalence of allergies (29.2% versus 22.9%) and pulmonary disorders (8.5% versus 4.3%) was significantly higher in periodontitis patients compared with the Austrian population (P < 0.001), whereas asthma (1.5% versus 5.6%), cardiovascular disorders (1.8% versus 10.5%), depression (7.1% versus 10.4%), headache (1.3% versus 20%), hyperlipidemia (6.4% versus 14.8%), hypertension (14.2% versus 24.5%), musculoskeletal disorders (11.2% versus 41.7%), and osteoporosis (2.8% versus 5.1%) were found less frequently (P < 0.001). No differences were observed for cancer, diabetes mellitus, gastrointestinal disorders, or psychiatric disorders (P = 0.95, P = 0.76, P = 0.68, P = 0.23, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In Austria, the majority of patients with periodontitis present with comorbidities, and the adjusted prevalence differs significantly from the general population.

The effects of non-surgical periodontal treatment on glycemic control, oxidative stress balance and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized clinical trial

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of non-surgical periodontal treatment on hemoglobinA1c (HbA1c) levels, oxidative stress balance and quality of life (QOL) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared to no periodontal treatment (simple oral hygiene instructions only).

Methods

The design was a 6-month, single-masked, single center, randomized clinical trial. Patients had both T2DM and chronic periodontitis. Forty participants were enrolled between April 2014 and March 2016 at the Nephrology, Diabetology and Endocrinology Department of Okayama University Hospital. The periodontal treatment group (n = 20) received non-surgical periodontal therapy, including scaling and root planing plus oral hygiene instructions, and consecutive supportive periodontal therapy at 3 and 6 months. The control group (n = 17) received only oral hygiene instructions without treatment during the experimental period. The primary study outcome was the change in HbA1c levels from baseline to 3 months. Secondary outcomes included changes in oxidative stress balance (Oxidative-INDEX), the Diabetes Therapy-Related QOL and clinical periodontal parameters from baseline to 3 months and baseline to 6 months.

Results

Changes in HbA1c in the periodontal treatment group were not significantly different with those in the control group at 3 and 6 months. Systemic oxidative stress balance and QOL significantly improved in the periodontal treatment group compared to the control group at 3 months. In the subgroup analysis (moderately poor control of diabetes), the decrease in HbA1c levels in the periodontal treatment group was greater than that in the control group at 3 months but not significant.

Conclusions

In T2DM patients, non-surgical periodontal treatment improved systemic oxidative stress balance and QOL, but did not decrease HbA1c levels at 3 months follow-up.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials UMIN-ICDR UMIN 000013278 (Registered April 1, 2014).

Anti-hypoglycemic and hepatocyte-protective effects of hyperoside from Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaves in mice with high-carbohydrate/high-fat diet and alloxan-induced diabetes

The development of diabetes mellitus (DM) is accompanied by hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress. Hyperoside is a major bioactive component in Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaves (HZL) and is a natural antioxidant. However, the effects of HZL on DM and its mechanisms of action remain undefined. The present study evaluated the anti-hypoglycemic and hepatocyte-protective effects of HZL in mice with diabetes induced by a high-carbohydrate/high-fat diet (HFD) and alloxan. We also aimed to eludicate the underlying mechanisms. Our resutls demonstrated that the administration of HZL significantly reduced body weight gain, serum glucose levels and insulin levels in diabetic mice compared with the vehicle-treated mice. In addition, the levels of dyslipidemia markers including total cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the HFD-treated mice were markedly decreased. Further experiments using hepatocytes from mice revealed that HZL significantly attenuated liver injury associated with DM compared with vehicle treatment, as evidenced by lower levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum and by lower levels of lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide content and inducible nitric oxide synthase activity in liver tissues. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways were investigated to elucidate the molecular mechanisms responsible for the protective effects of HZL against diabetic liver injury. The results indicated that HZL inhibited the phosphorylation of p65/NF-κB, MAPK (including p38, JNK and ERK1/2) and activating transcription factor 3 protein expression, with an additional suppression of Bax, cytochrome c, caspase-9 and caspase-3 in the liver tissues of diabetic mice. Taken together, our findings suggest that HZL, which was effective in inhibiting oxidative stress-related pathways may be beneficial for use in the treatment of DM.

Phthalates impact human health: Epidemiological evidences and plausible mechanism of action

Disregarding the rising alarm on the hazardous nature of various phthalates and their metabolites, ruthless usage of phthalates as plasticizer in plastics and as additives in innumerable consumer products continues due low their cost, attractive properties, and lack of suitable alternatives. Globally, in silico computational, in vitro mechanistic, in vivo preclinical and limited clinical or epidemiological human studies showed that over a dozen phthalates and their metabolites ingested passively by man from the general environment, foods, drinks, breathing air, and routine household products cause various dysfunctions. Thus, this review addresses the health hazards posed by phthalates on children and adolescents, epigenetic modulation, reproductive toxicity in women and men; insulin resistance and type II diabetes; overweight and obesity, skeletal anomalies, allergy and asthma, cancer, etc., coupled with the description of major phthalates and their general uses, phthalate exposure routes, biomonitoring and risk assessment, special account on endocrine disruption; and finally, a plausible molecular cross-talk with a unique mechanism of action. This clinically focused comprehensive review on the hazards of phthalates would benefit the general population, academia, scientists, clinicians, environmentalists, and law or policy makers to decide upon whether usage of phthalates to be continued swiftly without sufficient deceleration or regulated by law or to be phased out from earth forever.

New Application of an Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet as a Neuro-protective Agent Against Glucose Deprivation-induced Injury of SH-SY5Y Cells

The atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) has attracted the attention of many researchers from multiple disciplines in recent years because its emissions include multiple types of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our previous study has shown the cytoprotective effect of the APPJ against oxidative stress-induced injuries. The aim of the present study is to provide a detailed in vitro treatment protocol regarding the neuroprotective applications of helium APPJs on glucose deprivation-induced injury in SH-SY5Y cells. The SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma-derived cell line was maintained in RPMI 1640 medium supplemented with 15% fetal calf serum. The culture medium was then changed to RPMI 1640 without glucose before APPJ treatment. After a 1 h incubation in a cell incubator, cell viability was determined using Cell Counting Kit 8. The results showed that, compared to the glucose deprivation group, cells treated with APPJ exhibited significantly increased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with 8 s/well observed as an optimal dose. Meanwhile, helium flow had no effect on the glucose deprivation-induced cell impairment. Our results indicated that APPJ could be potentially used as a treatment method for the diseases in the central nervous system related to glucose deprivation. This protocol could also be used as a cytoprotective application for other cells with different impairments, but the cell culture and APPJ treatment conditions should be readjusted, and the treatment dose must be relatively low.

S-phenylpiracetam, a selective DAT inhibitor, reduces body weight gain without influencing locomotor activity

S-phenylpiracetam is an optical isomer of phenotropil, which is a clinically used nootropic drug that improves physical condition and cognition. Recently, it was shown that S-phenylpiracetam is a selective dopamine transporter (DAT) inhibitor that does not influence norepinephrine (NE) or serotonin (5-HT) receptors. The aim of the present study was to study the effects of S-phenylpiracetam treatment on body weight gain, blood glucose and leptin levels, and locomotor activity. Western diet (WD)-fed mice and obese Zucker rats were treated daily with peroral administration of S-phenylpiracetam for 8 and 12weeks, respectively. Weight gain and plasma metabolites reflecting glucose metabolism were measured. Locomotor activity was detected in an open-field test. S-phenylpiracetam treatment significantly decreased body weight gain and fat mass increase in the obese Zucker rats and in the WD-fed mice. In addition, S-phenylpiracetam reduced the plasma glucose and leptin concentration and lowered hyperglycemia in a glucose tolerance test in both the mice and the rats. S-phenylpiracetam did not influence locomotor activity in the obese Zucker rats or in the WD-fed mice. The results demonstrate that S-phenylpiracetam reduces body weight gain and improves adaptation to hyperglycemia without stimulating locomotor activity. Our findings suggest that selective DAT inhibitors, such as S-phenylpiracetam, could be potentially useful for treating obesity in patients with metabolic syndrome with fewer adverse health consequences compared to other anorectic agents.

Influence of the Periodontal Disease, the Most Prevalent Inflammatory Event, in Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors Linking Nutrition and Energy Metabolism

Periodontal disease is considered one of the main pathologic diseases occurring in humans. Its pathologic process involves inflammatory reactions producing periodontal bone resorption and the tooth loss. But some patients do not present an evident clinical inflammation with bone resorption, and in others, the inflammation is prominent without bone resorption. A key question could be to investigate a different way of responding to aggression. Inflammation requires a complex intracellular metabolic process, starting with the harmful recognition and activation of the inflammasome, continues the energy supply with the alteration of oxidative stress conditions, and finishes with the elimination of the aggression with autophagy/apoptosis mechanisms, then concludes with recovery. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are essential molecules produced in inflammation, and its genes and its activation have been related to periodontal disease. Also, an important aspect is the influence of PPARs in bone metabolism; the main periodontitis symptom is bone loss and PPARγ activation that can downregulate the bone resorption in experimental periodontitis, PPARγ-coated titanium dental implant surfaces could carry the antiinflammatory gene and restrain inflammation. PPARs could be one of the meeting background points with atherosclerosis/cardiovascular disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome showing a modified proinflammatory statement such as it is described in periodontitis.

The effects of exercise and cold exposure on mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle and white adipose tissue

[Purpose]

The purpose of this study was to determine whether exercise or/and cold exposure regulate mitochondria biogenesis-related gene expression in soleus and inguinal adipose tissue of mice.

[Methods]

Forty ICR 5-week old male mice were divided into four groups: thermoneutrality-untrained (23 ± 1 °C in room temperature, n=10), cold-water immersion (24 ± 1 °C, n=10), exercise in neutral temperature (34 ± 1 °C, n=10), and exercise in cold temperature (24 ± 1 °C, n=10). The mice performed swimming exercise (30 min to 60 min, 5 times) for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, we confirmed mitochondrial biogenesis-related gene expression changes for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factors 1 (NRF1), and mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam) in soleus muscle and inguinal adipose tissue, and the related protein expression in soleus muscle.

[Results]

In soleus muscle, PGC-1α expression significantly increased in response to cold exposure (p = 0.006) and exercise (p = 0.05). There was also significant interaction between exercise and cold exposure (p = 0.005). Only exercise had a significant effect on NRF1 relative expression (p=0.001). Neither cold exposure nor the interaction showed significant effects (p = 0.1222 and p = 0.875, respectively). Relative Tfam expression did not show any significant effect from exercise. In inguinal adipose tissue, relative PGC-1α expression did not significantly change in any group. NRF1 expression showed a significant change from exercise (p = 0.01) and cold exposure (p = 0.011). There was also a significant interaction between exercise and cold exposure (p = 0.000). Tfam mRNA expression showed a significant effect from exercise (p=0.000) and an interaction between exercise and cold exposure (p=0.001). Only temperature significantly affected PGC-1α protein levels (p=0.045). Neither exercise nor the interaction were significant (p = 0.397 and p = 0.292, respectively). NRF1 protein levels did not show a significant effect in any experimental treatments. Tfam protein levels showed a significant effect in the exercise group (p=0.012), but effects of neither cold exposure nor the interaction were significant (p = 0.085 and p=0.374, respectively).

[Conclusion]

Exercise and cold exposure promoted increased expression of mitochondrial biogenesis- related genes in soleus muscle. Only cold exposure had a significant effect on PGC-1α protein expression and only exercise had a significant effect on Tfam protein expression. In inguinal adipose tissue, there was interaction between exercise and cold exposure in expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related genes.

Local muscle cooling does not impact expression of mitochondrial-related genes

Recovery that takes place in a cold environment after endurance exercise elevates PGC-1α mRNA whereas ERRα and NRF2 mRNA expression are inhibited. However, the effect of local skeletal muscle cooling on mitochondrial-related gene expression is unknown.

PURPOSE

To determine the impact of local skeletal muscle cooling during recovery from an acute bout of exercise on mitochondrial-related gene expression.

METHODS

Recreationally-trained male cyclists (n=8, age 25±3 y, height 181±6cm, weight 79±8kg, 12.8±3.6% body fat, VO_2peak 4.52±0.88L·min^-1 protocol) completed a 90-min variable intensity cycling protocol followed by 4h of recovery. During recovery, ice was applied intermittently to one leg (ICE) while the other leg served as a control (CON). Intramuscular temperature was recorded continuously. Muscle biopsies were taken from each vastus lateralis at 4h post-exercise for the analysis of mitochondrial-related gene expression.

RESULTS

Intramuscular temperature was colder in ICE (26.7±1.1°C) than CON (35.5±0.1°C) throughout the 4h recovery period (p<0.001). There were no differences in expression of PGC-1α, TFAM, NRF1, NRF2, or ERRα mRNA between ICE and CON after the 4h recovery period.

CONCLUSION

Local muscle cooling after exercise does not impact the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related genes compared to recovery from exercise in control conditions. When these data are considered with previous research, the stimuli for cold-induced gene expression alterations may be related to factors other than local muscle temperature. Additionally, different intramuscular temperatures should be examined to determine dose-response of mitochondrial-related gene expression.

LPS from P. gingivalis Negatively Alters Gingival Cell Mitochondrial Bioenergetics

OBJECTIVE

Oral inflammatory pathologies are linked to increased oxidative stress, thereby partly explaining their relevance in the etiology of systemic disorders. The purpose of this work was to determine the degree to which LPS from Porphyromonas gingivalis, the primary pathogen related to oral inflammation, altered gingival mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species generation.

METHODS

Human gingival fibroblast (HGF-1) cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide of P. gingivalis. Mitochondrial function was determined via high-resolution respirometry.

P GINGIVALIS

Mitochondrial function was determined via high-resolution respirometry.

RESULTS

LPS-treated HGF-1 cells had significantly higher mitochondrial complex IV and higher rates of mitochondrial respiration. However, this failed to translate into greater ATP production, as ATP production was paradoxically diminished with LPS treatment. Nevertheless, production of the reactive H2O2 was elevated with LPS treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

LPS elicits an increase in gingival cell mitochondria content, with a subsequent increase in reactive oxygen species production (i.e., H2O2), despite a paradoxical reduction in ATP generation. These findings provide an insight into the nature of oxidative stress in oral inflammatory pathologies.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the aggravation of periodontitis by diabetes

AIM

To elucidate whether mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to aggravated periodontitis in diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-four wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups: control, periodontitis, diabetes, and diabetic periodontitis. Two weeks after induction of diabetes, periodontitis was induced by silk ligation for 2 weeks and thereafter evaluated by assessing alveolar bone loss and apoptosis of periodontium cells. Mitochondrial oxidative stress was detected by MitoSOX staining. Mitochondrial function was determined by measuring ATP production, and by assessing mitochondrial DNA copy number, activities of electron transport chain complexes, and biogenesis with real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Significantly severer bone loss, enhanced periodontium cell apoptosis, and mitochondrial oxidative stress were found in the rats with diabetic periodontitis than the others. Furthermore, diabetic rats with periodontitis presented severer mitochondrial dysfunction than lean rats with periodontitis, as reflected by compromised ATP production, decreased mitochondrial DNA copy number, reduced gene expression of electron transport chain complex I subunits, and impaired mitochondrial biogenesis (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis further indicated a close correlation between these mitochondrial events and bone loss in diabetic periodontitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Mitochondrial dysfunction was positive correlated to aggravated periodontitis in diabetes and might represent a therapeutic target for diabetic periodontitis.

Apoptotic Effect of Koumine on Human Breast Cancer Cells and the Mechanism Involved

Koumine is an alkaloid separated from traditional Chinese herb Gelsemium elegans. In this study, anticancer activity and underlying mechanisms were investigated with an extract using human breast cancer cells. The survival rate was reduced in a concentration- and time-dependent manner as assessed by MTT assay. After incubation for 48 h, typical apoptotic morphological changes were observed by Hoechst 33258 dye assay. Flow cytometry result revealed that the treatment obviously induced G2/M arrest and apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, Western blotting demonstrated the down-regulation of protein expression of Bcl-2, whereas Bax and caspase-3 expressions were up-regulated. Therefore, we propose that koumine has the potential to be a future breast cancer chemotherapeutic agent.

Preventive Effects of Drinking Hydrogen-Rich Water on Gingival Oxidative Stress and Alveolar Bone Resorption in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet

Obesity induces gingival oxidative stress, which is involved in the progression of alveolar bone resorption. The antioxidant effect of hydrogen-rich water may attenuate gingival oxidative stress and prevent alveolar bone resorption in cases of obesity. We examined whether hydrogen-rich water could suppress gingival oxidative stress and alveolar bone resorption in obese rats fed a high-fat diet. Male Fischer 344 rats (n = 18) were divided into three groups of six rats each: a control group (fed a regular diet and drinking distilled water) and two experimental groups (fed a high-fat diet and drinking distilled water or hydrogen-rich water). The level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine was determined to evaluate oxidative stress. The bone mineral density of the alveolar bone was analyzed by micro-computerized tomography. Obese rats, induced by a high-fat diet, showed a higher gingival level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and a lower level of alveolar bone density compared to the control group. Drinking hydrogen-rich water suppressed body weight gain, lowered gingival level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, and reduced alveolar bone resorption in rats on a high-fat diet. The results indicate that hydrogen-rich water could suppress gingival oxidative stress and alveolar bone resorption by limiting obesity.

Salivary oxidative stress biomarkers in chronic periodontitis and acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed at assessing oxidative stress (OS) biomarker levels in the saliva of patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and establishing their correlation to periodontal parameters and markers for cardiovascular events.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study enrolled 24 patients with ACS and CP (the ACSCP group), 24 patients with ACS only (the ACS group), 24 patients with CP only (the CP group), and 24 healthy controls. Plaque index (PI), gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment loss were recorded. Markers for cardiovascular events included serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and plasma fibrinogen. 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), protein carbonyl (PC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) were used as OS biomarkers.

RESULTS

Salivary 8-OHdG, MDA, and PC levels were significantly higher in the ACSCP, ACS, and CP groups than in healthy controls (p < 0.05). There were significant correlations between salivary PC levels and PI or PPD (p < 0.05) as well as between salivary 8-OHdG levels and all periodontal parameters (p < 0.05). TAOC levels in saliva were correlated to both serum hsCRP and plasma fibrinogen (p < 0.05). Salivary MDA levels were correlated to all periodontal parameters and biomarkers for cardiovascular events (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Salivary OS biomarker levels were higher in diseased groups compared to control. They also correlated to clinical periodontal parameters and markers for cardiovascular events in ACS patients, with or without CP.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Salivary OS biomarkers could potentially serve as diagnostic tools for cardiovascular and/or periodontal diseases.

A Comparative Evaluation of Serum Magnesium in Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients with and without Periodontitis - A Clinico-biochemical Study

INTRODUCTION

Magnesium is an essential cation playing a crucial role in many physiological functions and its imbalance is associated with greater number of pathological situations. Oxidative stress is usually increased due to decreased essential nutrients. Hence, any imbalance of essential nutrients like serum magnesium can significantly play a role in the pathobiology of periodontitis in the presence of diabetes, as diabetes and chronic periodontitis are two chronic diseases that have been biologically linked.

AIM

To evaluate the association of serum magnesium in type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis patients, also to evaluate and associate the influence of serum magnesium on periodontal health.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single blinded, randomized study was conducted that comprised of 120 subjects divided into four groups. Individuals with periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus formed the test group. Subjects with chronic periodontitis diagnosed clinically according to 1999 American Academy of Periodontology classification, without any medical history and drug history were included as the study subjects. Gingival Index and Plaque Index were scored for all the groups at baseline and after 21 days of scaling and root planing. Scaling and root planing was done only in the test group. Blood was drawn from the patients at baseline and 21 days after scaling and root planning and estimation of serum magnesium level was done using semi-autoanalyzer. Data obtained was statistically analyzed using the paired t-test, one-way ANOVA, post-hoc test.

RESULTS

The result of the present study showed that mean serum magnesium among healthy was 1.40±0.565mmol/l as compared to 1.01±0.287mmol/l among subjects with periodontitis, 0.920±0.23mmol/l among diabetics with periodontitis and 0.93±0.29mmol/l among diabetics without periodontitis. Serum magnesium was significantly decreased in chronic periodontitis and diabetic patients with and without chronic periodontitis as compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

Imbalance of serum magnesium level was seen in patients with chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Hence, it can be a biomarker which can predict the occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis.

Associations between Periodontal Microbiota and Death Rates

It is conceived that specific combinations of periodontal bacteria are associated with risk for the various forms of periodontitis. We hypothesized that such specificity is also related to human cause-specific death rates. We tested this hypothesis in a representative sample of the US population followed for a mean duration of 11 years and found that two specific patterns of 21 serum antibodies against periodontal bacteria were significantly associated with increased all-cause and/or diabetes-related mortalities. These data suggested that specific combinations of periodontal bacteria, even without inducing clinically significant periodontitis, may have a significant impact on human cause-specific death rates. Our findings implied that increased disease and mortality risk could be transmittable via the transfer of oral microbiota, and that developing personalized strategies and maintaining healthy oral microbiota beyond protection against periodontitis would be important to manage the risk.

Programmed cell death in periodontitis: recent advances and future perspectives

Periodontitis is a highly prevalent infectious disease, characterized by destruction of the periodontium, and is the main cause of tooth loss. Periodontitis is initiated by periodontal pathogens, while other risk factors including smoking, stress, and systemic diseases aggravate its progression. Periodontitis affects many people worldwide, but the molecular mechanisms by which pathogens and risk factors destroy the periodontium are unclear. Programmed cell death (PCD), different from necrosis, is an active cell death mediated by a cascade of gene expression events and can be mainly classified into apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, and pyroptosis. Although PCD is involved in many inflammatory diseases, its correlation with periodontitis is unclear. After reviewing the relevant published articles, we found that apoptosis has indeed been reported to play a role in periodontitis. However, the role of autophagy in periodontitis needs further verification. Additionally, implication of necroptosis or pyroptosis in periodontitis remains unknown. Therefore, we recommend future studies, which will unravel the pivotal role of PCD in periodontitis, allowing us to prevent, diagnose, and treat the disease, as well as predict its outcomes.

Early redox imbalance is associated with liver dysfunction at weaning in overfed rats

Neonatal overfeeding induced by litter size reduction leads to further obesity and other metabolic disorders, such as liver oxidative stress and microsteatosis at adulthood. We hypothesized that overfeeding causes an early redox imbalance at weaning, which could programme the animals to future liver dysfunction. Thus, we studied lipogenesis, adipogenesis, catecholamine status and oxidative balance in weaned overfed pups. To induce early overfeeding, litters were adjusted to three pups at the 3rd day of lactation (SL group). The control group contained 10 pups per litter until weaning (NL group). Peripheral autonomic nerve function was determined in vivo at 21 days old. Thereafter, pups were killed for further analysis. Differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. The SL pups presented with a higher visceral adipocyte area, higher content of lipogenic enzymes (ACC, FAS) and with a lower content of adipogenic factors (CEBP, PPARγ) in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Although autonomic nerve activity and adrenal catecholamine production were not significantly altered, catecholamine receptor (β3ADR) content was lower in VAT. The SL pups also presented with higher triglyceride, PPARγ, PPARα and PGC1α contents in liver. In plasma and liver, the SL pups showed an oxidative imbalance, with higher lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. The SL group presented with a higher serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The early increase in lipogenesis in adipose tissue and liver in weaned overfed rats suggests that the higher oxidative stress and lower catecholamine content in VAT are associated with the early development of liver dysfunction and adipocyte hypertrophy.