New insights into the role of spermine in enhancing the antioxidant capacity of rat spleen and liver under oxidative stress

Exopolysaccharides Produced by Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum YS108R Ameliorates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Improving the Gut Barrier and Regulating the Gut Microbiota

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a major disease that has endangered human health. Our previous study demonstrated that Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum YS108R, a ropy exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing bacterium, could alleviate UC in mice, but it is unclear whether EPS is the key substance responsible for its action. In this study, we proposed to investigate the remitting effect of EPS from B. longum subsp. longum YS108R on UC in a DSS-induced UC mouse model. Water extraction and alcohol precipitation were applied to extract EPS from the supernatant of B. longum subsp. longum YS108R culture. Then the animal trial was performed, and the results indicated that YS108R EPS ameliorated colonic pathological damage and the intestinal barrier. YS108R EPS suppressed inflammation via NF-κB signaling pathway inhibition and attenuated oxidative stress via the Nrf2 signaling pathway activation. Remarkably, YS108R EPS regulated gut microbiota, as evidenced by an increase in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and a decline in Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in an increase of propionate and butyrate and a reduction of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Collectively, YS108R EPS manipulated the intestinal microbiota and its metabolites, which further improved the intestinal barrier and inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating UC.

New Insights into Identification, Distribution, and Health Benefits of Polyamines and Their Derivatives

Polyamines and their derivatives are ubiquitously present in free or conjugated forms in various foods from animal, plant, and microbial origins. The current knowledge of free polyamines in foods and their contents is readily available; furthermore, conjugated polyamines generate considerable recent research interest due to their potential health benefits. The structural diversity of conjugated polyamines results in challenging their qualitative and quantitative analysis in food. Herein, we review and summarize the knowledge published on polyamines and their derivatives in foods, including their identification, sources, quantities, and health benefits. Particularly, facing the inherent challenges of isomer identification in conjugated polyamines, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of conjugated polyamines' structural characteristics, including the cleavage patterns and characteristic ion fragments of MS/MS for isomer identification. Free polyamines are present in all types of food, while conjugated polyamines are limited to plant-derived foods. Spermidine is renowned for antiaging properties, acclaimed as antiaging vitamins. Conjugated polyamines highlight their anti-inflammatory properties and have emerged as the mainstream drugs for antiprostatitis. This paper will likely help us gain better insight into polyamines and their derivatives to further develop functional foods and personalized nutraceuticals.

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid attenuates oxidative stress and modulates mitochondrial dynamics and autophagy of spleen in a piglet model of lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (2-ketoglutaric acid or 2-oxoglutaric acid, AKG), a crucial intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, is pivotal in animal antioxidative process. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether AKG has the efficacy to mitigate spleen oxidative stress in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis piglets through the modulation of mitochondrial dynamics and autophagy. Utilizing a 2 × 2 factorial design, the study encompassed 24 piglets subjected to varying diets (basal or 1% AKG) and immune stimulations (saline or LPS) over 21 days. Subsequently, they were injected intraperitoneally with either LPS or saline solution. The results showed that LPS decreased antioxidant capacity, whereas AKG supplementation increased antioxidant activities compared to control group. LPS elevated mitochondrial fission factor, mitochondrial elongation factor 1, mitochondrial elongation factor 2, dynamin-related protein 1, voltage-dependent anion channel 1, and fission 1 mRNA abundance, but reduced mRNA abundance of mitofusin 1, mitofusin 2, and optic atrophy 1 compared to controls. LPS elevated mRNA abundance of autophagy related protein 5, autophagy related protein 7, P62, Beclin1, and interleukin-1β mRNA abundance compared to controls. However, AKG supplementation mitigated these effects induced by LPS. Additionally, AKG intake was associated with lower protein expressions of microtubule-associated protein light chain 3, Parkin, and PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 compared to LPS-challenged piglets. These results suggested that AKG could alleviate spleen oxidative stress caused by LPS by regulating mitochondrial dynamics and autophagy.

The Effect of Oat Hay, Alfalfa Hay, and Their Combined Diets on the Morphology and Function of the Pancreas in Preweaning Yak Calves

In this study, we used a combination of animal nutrition and nontargeted metabolomics to investigate the effects of feeding different sources forages rations on the morphology and function of the pancreas in preweaning yak calves, providing theoretical guidance and important references for the healthy and high-quality rearing of yak calves. At 45 days old, 21 yak calf males were divided into OP, AP, and AOP groups, with seven animals in each group, which were fed with oat hay, alfalfa hay, and mixed oat and alfalfa hay, respectively. Five calves from each group were selected randomly to slaughter after a pretest period of 21 days and the official period of 120 days, when the average daily feed intake reached 1 kg. During the test, the growth and pancreas weight of yak calves were recorded, and the morphology and function of the pancreas tissues were determined using tissue sectioning methods, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests, and nontargeted metabolomics strategies. The results showed that the body weight and pancreatic organ index of yak calves in the AOP group were significantly higher than those of the AP and OP groups. Compared to the AP and OP groups, the AOP group had considerably lower ratios of the area of the pancreatic endocrine component and overall percentage of that section of the organ, and the AOP group increased pancreatic amylase activity and a higher concentration of growth inhibitor. The AP group had significantly higher levels of the differential metabolites L-ascorbic acid, spermidine, spermine, and dopaquinone in the glutathione, β-alanine, and tyrosine metabolic pathways than the OP group. The AOP group had significantly lower levels of the differential metabolites spermine and phenylacetylglycine in the glutathione and phenylalanine metabolic pathways than the AP group. In summary, compared to feeding oat or alfalfa hay alone, combined feeding oat hay and alfalfa hay is more beneficial to promote the morphological and functional development of the pancreas in preweaning yak calves, so as to enhance the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the diet and maintain the positive regulation of blood glucose levels. This provides an important basis for the optimized forage supply of healthy and high-quality rearing in preweaning yak calves.

P5B-ATPases in the mammalian polyamine transport system and their role in disease

Polyamines (PAs) are physiologically relevant molecules that are ubiquitous in all organisms. The vitality of PAs to the healthy functioning of a cell is due to their polycationic nature causing them to interact with a vast plethora of cellular players and partake in numerous cellular pathways. Naturally, the homeostasis of such essential molecules is tightly regulated in a strictly controlled interplay between intracellular synthesis and degradation, uptake from and secretion to the extracellular compartment, as well as intracellular trafficking. Not surprisingly, dysregulated PA homeostasis and signaling are implicated in multiple disorders, ranging from cancer to neurodegeneration; leading many to propose rectifying the PA balance as a potential therapeutic strategy. Despite being well characterized in bacteria, fungi and plants, the molecular identity and properties of the PA transporters in animals are poorly understood. This review brings together the current knowledge of the cellular function of the mammalian PA transport system (PTS). We will focus on the role of P5B-ATPases ATP13A2-5 which are PA transporters in the endosomal system that have emerged as key players in cellular PA uptake and organelle homeostasis. We will discuss recent breakthroughs on their biochemical and structural properties as well as their implications for disease and therapy.

Traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions (XJZ, JSS) ameliorate spleen inflammatory response and antioxidant capacity by synergistically regulating NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways in piglets

Weaning transition generally impairs the immune system, inducing immune disturbance, which may be associated with post-weaning diarrhea and high mortality in piglets. The spleen is a pivotal lymphatic organ that plays a key role in the establishment of the immune system. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions, XiaoJianZhong (XJZ) and Jiansananli-sepsis (JSS), are widely used prescriptions for treating spleen damage and diarrhea. Here, we hypothesized that XJZ and JSS maintain the spleen physiological function by ameliorating antioxidant capacity and inflammatory response in weaned piglets. In this study, 18 weaned piglets were assigned to the Control, XJZ and JSS groups. By hematoxylin and eosin staining, hematological analysis, flow cytometric analysis, qRT-PCR and western blot, the effects of both TCM prescriptions on the spleen antioxidant defense system and inflammatory pathway were explored. Results showed that both TCM treatment significantly ameliorated the weaning-induced morphological damage in piglets, as evidenced by clearer and more perfect spleen histology, as well as higher relative area of white pulp. Meanwhile, both XJZ and JSS exerted better blood parameters, as supported by the changes of monocyte level and lymphocyte subpopulations CD4+/CD8+ ratio. Furthermore, the levels of inflammatory markers, IL1β, IL6, IL8, and TNF-α in the spleen were markedly decreased after supplemented with both TCM prescriptions. Importantly, the inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and its downstream effector genes (IL6, IL8, and TNF-α) in both XJZ and JSS treatment groups further confirmed alleviation of inflammatory responses in the spleen. In addition, both XJZ and JSS enhanced the antioxidant capacity of the spleen by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-activated antioxidant defense system. Notably, the results of PCA and network correlation analysis indicated that XJZ and JSS treatment altered the expression profiles of inflammatory and antioxidant-related factors in the spleen of weaned-piglets, which may involve the synergy of NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways. In summary, our study showed that TCM prescriptions, XJZ and JSS could ameliorate inflammatory response and antioxidant capacity in the spleen by synergistically regulating NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways in piglets.

An Artemisia ordosica extract: Effects on growth performance, immune, and inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide-challenged broilers

Artemisia ordosica has been applied as a traditional Chinese/Mongolian medicine for treating csertain inflammatory ailments. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Artemisia ordosica alcohol extract (AOAE) supplemented in diets on growth performance, immune, and inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged broilers. A total of 240 one-day-old Arbor Acre male broilers were randomly allotted into 5 groups with 6 replicates (n = 8), which were basal diet group (CON), LPS-challenge and basal diet group (LPS), LPS-challenge and the basal diet added with low (500 mg/kg), middle (750 mg/kg), and high (1,000 mg/kg) dose of AOAE groups (AOAE-L, AOAE-M, and AOAE-H), respectively. On d 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28, all broilers were injected intra-abdominally either with LPS or an equivalent amount of saline. Results showed that dietary AOAE alleviated the LPS-induced decrease in average daily gain and average daily feed intake in the broilers (P < 0.05). Dietary AOAE supplementation reversed the increased spleen index and the decreased bursa index in LPS-challenged broilers (P < 0.05). Moreover, feeding AOAE could mitigate the elevation of IL-1β in serum, liver, and spleen, IL-2 in serum and liver, IL-6 in serum and spleen, and the decrease of IgG in spleen, IgM in serum, liver, and spleen, and IL-4 in serum of the LPS-challenged broilers (P < 0.05). This study also showed that AOAE supplementation alleviated the increase of mRNA expression of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6, NF-κB p65, NF-κB p50, IL-1β, and IL-6, and the decrease of gene expression of IκBα and PPARγ in liver and/or spleen of broilers challenged by LPS (P < 0.05). We speculated that AOAE administration could effectively alleviate LPS-induced inflammation via decreasing over-production of proinflammatory cytokines, ultimately relieving the growth inhibition of broilers caused by LPS. In conclusion, 1,000 mg/kg AOAE has a strong capacity to enhance immunity and inhibit inflammation, and can be used as a potential novel feed additive with applications in treating inflammation-related diseases and bacterial infection in broilers.

Aspirin eugenol ester alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats while stabilizing serum metabolites levels

Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) was a novel drug compound with aspirin and eugenol esterified. AEE had various pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-oxidative stress and so on. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of AEE on the acute lung injury (ALI) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. In vitro experiments evaluated the protective effect of AEE on the LPS-induced A549 cells. The tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured in the cell supernatant. The Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8): control group, model group (LPS group), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 54 mg·kg−1), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 108 mg·kg−1), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 216 mg·kg−1). The lung wet-to-dry weight (W/D) ratio and immune organ index were calculated. WBCs were counted in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and total protein concentration was measured. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining of lung tissue was performed. Glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), macrophage mobility inhibitory factor (MIF), TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β activity were measured. The metabolomic analysis of rat serum was performed by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. From the results, compared with LPS group, AEE improved histopathological changes, reduced MDA, CRP, MPO, MDA, and MIF production, decreased WBC count and total protein content in BALF, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, immune organ index and lung wet-dry weight (W/D), increased antioxidant enzyme activity, in a dose-dependent manner. The results of serum metabolomic analysis showed that the LPS-induced ALI caused metabolic disorders and oxidative stress in rats, while AEE could ameliorate it to some extent. Therefore, AEE could alleviate LPS-induced ALI in rats by regulating abnormal inflammatory responses, slowing down oxidative stress, and modulating energy metabolism.

Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and AMXT 1501 inhibit capsule biosynthesis in pneumococci

Polyamines are small cationic molecules that have been linked to various cellular processes including replication, translation, stress response and recently, capsule regulation in Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn, pneumococcus). Pneumococcal-associated diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis are some of the leading causes of death worldwide and capsule remains the principal virulence factor of this versatile pathogen. α-Difluoromethyl-ornithine (DFMO) is an irreversible inhibitor of the polyamine biosynthesis pathway catalyzed by ornithine decarboxylase and has a long history in modulating cell growth, polyamine levels, and disease outcomes in eukaryotic systems. Recent evidence shows that DFMO can also target arginine decarboxylation. Interestingly, DFMO-treated cells often escape polyamine depletion via increased polyamine uptake from extracellular sources. Here, we examined the potential capsule-crippling ability of DFMO and the possible synergistic effects of the polyamine transport inhibitor, AMXT 1501, on pneumococci. We characterized the changes in pneumococcal metabolites in response to DFMO and AMXT 1501, and also measured the impact of DFMO on amino acid decarboxylase activities. Our findings show that DFMO inhibited pneumococcal polyamine and capsule biosynthesis as well as decarboxylase activities, albeit, at a high concentration. AMXT 1501 at physiologically relevant concentration could inhibit both polyamine and capsule biosynthesis, however, in a serotype-dependent manner. In summary, this study demonstrates the utility of targeting polyamine biosynthesis and transport for pneumococcal capsule inhibition. Since targeting capsule biosynthesis is a promising way for the eradication of the diverse and pathogenic pneumococcal strains, future work will identify small molecules similar to DFMO/AMXT 1501, which act in a serotype-independent manner.

The Role of Polyamines in the Mechanisms of Cognitive Impairment

Abstract—As the population ages, age-related cognitive impairments are becoming an increasingly pressing problem. Currently, the role of polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairments of various origin is actively discussed. It was shown that the content of polyamines in the brain tissue decreases with age. Exogenous administration of polyamines makes it possible to avoid cognitive impairment and/or influence the pathogenetic processes associated with disease progression. There are 3 known ways that polyamines can enter the human body: food, synthesis by intestinal bacteria, and biosynthesis in the body. Currently, one of the most promising approaches to the prevention of cognitive impairment is the use of foods with a high content of polyamines, as well as the use of various probiotics that affect intestinal bacteria that synthesize polyamines. Since 2018, in a number of European countries projects have been launched aimed at evaluation of the impact of a diet high in polyamines on cognitive processes. The review, based on analysis of modern scientific literature and the authors' own data, presents material on the effect of polyamines on cognitive processes and the role of polyamines in the regulation of neurotransmitter processes, and discusses the role of polyamines in cognitive disorders in mental and neurological diseases.

Dietary Curcumin Alleviated Aflatoxin B1-Induced Acute Liver Damage in Ducks by Regulating NLRP3-Caspase-1 Signaling Pathways

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a mycotoxin widely distributed in animal feed and human food; it represents a serious threat to human and animal health. This study investigates the mechanism by which dietary curcumin protected liver against acute damage caused by AFB1 administration in ducks. One-day-old male ducks (n = 450) were randomly assigned to three groups, the control group, the AFB1 group, and the AFB1 + curcumin group; the first group were fed with basic diet, while the third group was fed basic diet containing 500 mg/kg curcumin. Ducks in the AFB1 group and AFB1 + curcumin group were challenged with AFB1 at the age of 70 days. The results show that AFB1 administration caused liver damage, increased CYP450 content and AFB1-DNA adducts in the liver, and induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the liver. Dietary curcumin significantly inhibited the generation of H₂O₂ and MDA in liver, activated the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway, and suppressed the NLRP3–caspase-1 signaling pathway in the liver of ducks. Conclusively, curcumin in diet could protect duck liver against the generation of AFB1-DNA adducts, toxicity, oxidation stress and inflammatory response induced by AFB1 through regulating the NLRP3–caspase-1 signaling pathways, demonstrating that curcumin is a potential feed additive agent to reduce the serious harmful effects of AFB1 on duck breeding.

Effects of Acute Diquat Poisoning on Liver Mitochondrial Apoptosis and Autophagy in Ducks

Diquat (DQ) is an effective herbicide and is widely used in agriculture. Due to persistent and frequent applications, it can enter into aquatic ecosystem and induce toxic effects to exposed aquatic animals. The residues of DQ via food chain accumulate in different tissues of exposed animals including humans and cause adverse toxic effects. Therefore, it is crucial and important to understand the mechanisms of toxic effects of DQ in exposed animals. We used ducks as test specimens to know the effects of acute DQ poisoning on mechanisms of apoptosis and autophagy in liver tissues. Results on comparison of various indexes of visceral organs including histopathological changes, apoptosis, autophagy-related genes, and protein expression indicated the adverse effects of DQ on the liver. The results of our experimental trial showed that DQ induces non-significant toxic effects on pro-apoptotic factors like BAX, BAK1, TNF-α, caspase series, and p53. The results revealed that anti-apoptotic gene Parkin was significantly upregulated, while an upward trend was also observed for Bcl2, suggesting that involvement of the anti-apoptotic factors in ducklings plays an important role in DQ poisoning. Results showed that DQ significantly increased the protein expression level of the autophagy factor Beclin 1 in the liver. Results on key autophagy factors like LC3A, LC3B, and p62 showed an upward trend at gene level, while the protein expression level of both LC3B and p62 reduced that might be associated with process of translation affected by the pro-apoptotic components such as apoptotic protease that inhibits the occurrence of autophagy while initiating cell apoptosis. The above results indicate that DQ can induce cell autophagy and apoptosis and the exposed organism may resist the toxic effects of DQ by increasing anti-apoptotic factors.

Samsum ant venom protects against carbon tetrachloride-induced acute spleen toxicity in vivo

Many active molecules used in the development of new drugs are produced by ants. Present study assessed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Samsum ant venom (SAV) extract in carbon tetrachloride (CCL₄)-induced spleen toxicity. Toxicity and oxidative stress were measured in four experimental groups: a negative control group without any treatment, a positive control group (CCl₄-treated rats; a single dose of 1 ml/kg CCL₄), an experimental group of CCl₄-treated rats co-treated daily with SAV (100 μl), and a group to determine safe use with rats treated only with SAV (100 μl) daily for 3 weeks. CCl₄-treatment led to an elevation in toxicity and oxidative stress. CCl₄ significantly elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as well as expression of inhibitor of κB (IκB) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) proteins. On the other hand, a decrease in glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) levels were detected in CCl₄-treated rats. Co-treatment with SAV was found to reduce these inflammatory and oxidative parameters. SAV elucidated a significant recovery of MDA concentration as well as a significant restoration in GSH levels compared to CCl₄-treated rats; however, SAV increased CAT levels compared to normal rats. Hence, SAV was found to restore splenomegaly induced in CCl₄-treated rats. Histopathological analysis also favored the biochemical analysis showing improvement in splenic architecture in CCl₄ and SAV co-treated rats. The antioxidant properties of SAV may potentially enhance anti-inflammatory actions and improve spleen structure and function in CCl₄-challenged rats.

Metabolomics-Guided Hypothesis Generation for Mechanisms of Intestinal Protection by Live Biotherapeutic Products

The use of live biotherapeutic products (LBPs), including single strains of beneficial probiotic bacteria or consortiums, is gaining traction as a viable option to treat inflammatory-mediated diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, LBPs' persistence in the intestine is heterogeneous since many beneficial bacteria lack mechanisms to tolerate the inflammation and the oxidative stress associated with IBD. We rationalized that optimizing LBPs with enhanced colonization and persistence in the inflamed intestine would help beneficial bacteria increase their bioavailability and sustain their beneficial responses. Our lab developed two bioengineered LBPs (SBT001/BioPersist and SBT002/BioColoniz) modified to enhance colonization or persistence in the inflamed intestine. In this study, we examined colon-derived metabolites via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in colitic mice treated with either BioPersist or BioColoniz as compared to their unmodified parent strains (Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 [EcN] and Lactobacillus reuteri, respectively) or to each other. BioPersist administration resulted in lowered concentrations of inflammatory prostaglandins, decreased stress hormones such as adrenaline and corticosterone, increased serotonin, and decreased bile acid in comparison to EcN. In comparison to BioColoniz, BioPersist increased serotonin and antioxidant production, limited bile acid accumulation, and enhanced tissue restoration via activated purine and pyrimidine metabolism. These data generated several novel hypotheses for the beneficial roles that LBPs may play during colitis.

Effects of Artemisia argyi flavonoids on growth performance and immune function in broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide

Objective

This research aimed to study the effects of Artemisia argyi flavonoids (AAF) supplemented in diets on the growth performance and immune function of broiler chickens challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods

A total of one hundred and ninety-two 1-d-old broiler chicks were assigned into 4 treatment groups, which were, respectively, fed a basal diet (control), fed a diet with 750 mg/kg AAF, fed a basal diet, and challenged with LPS, fed a diet with 750 mg/kg AAF, and challenged with LPS. Each treatment had six pens with 8 chicks per pen. On days 14, 16, 18, 20 (stress phase I) and 28, 30, 32, 34 (stress phase II), broilers were injected with LPS (500 μg/kg body weight) or an equivalent amount of saline.

Results

The results demonstrated that dietary AAF significantly improved the body weight (d 21) and alleviated the decrease of average daily gain in broilers challenged with LPS on d 21 and d 35 (p<0.05). Dietary AAF increased bursa fabricius index, and dramatically attenuated the elevation of spleen index caused by LPS on d 35 (p<0.05). Furthermore, serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration decreased with AAF supplementation on d 21 (p<0.05). Diet treatment and LPS challenge exhibited a significant interaction for the concentration of IL-1β (d 21) and IL-6 (d 35) in serum (p<0.05). Additionally, AAF supplementation mitigated the increase of IL-1β, IL-6 in liver and spleen induced by LPS on d 21 and 35 (p<0.05). This study also showed that AAF supplementation significantly reduced the expression of IL-1β (d 21) and nuclear transcription factor kappa-B p65 (d 21 and 35) in liver (p<0.05), and dietary AAF and LPS treatment exhibited significant interaction for the gene expression of IL-6 (d 21), toll like receptor 4 (d 35) and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (d 35) in spleen (p<0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, AAF could be used as a potential natural immunomodulator to improve growth performance and alleviate immune stress in broilers challenged with LPS.

The Protect Effects of Chitosan Oligosaccharides on Intestinal Integrity by Regulating Oxidative Status and Inflammation under Oxidative Stress

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the dietary supplementation of chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) on intestinal integrity, oxidative status, and the inflammation response with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) challenge. In total, 30 rats were randomly assigned to three groups with 10 replications: CON group, basal diet; AS group, basal diet + 0.1% H₂O₂ in drinking water; ASC group, basal diet + 200 mg/kg COS + 0.1% H₂O₂ in drinking water. The results indicated that COS upregulated (p < 0.05) villus height (VH) of the small intestine, duodenum, and ileum; mucosal glutathione peroxidase activity; jejunum and ileum mucosal total antioxidant capacity; duodenum and ileum mucosal interleukin (IL)-6 level; jejunum mucosal tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level; duodenum and ileum mucosal IL-10 level; the mRNA expression level of zonula occludens (ZO)-1 in the jejunum and ileum, claudin in the duodenum, nuclear factor-erythroid 2-like 2 in the jejunum, and heme oxygenase-1 in the duodenum and ileum; and the protein expression of ZO-1 and claudin in jejunum; however, it downregulated (p < 0.05) serum diamine oxidase activity and D-lactate level; small intestine mucosal malondialdehyde content; duodenum and ileum mucosal IL-6 level; jejunum mucosal TNF-α level; and the mRNA expression of IL-6 in the duodenum and jejunum, and TNF-α in the jejunum and ileum. These results suggested COS could maintain intestinal integrity under oxidative stress by modulating the intestinal oxidative status and release of inflammatory cytokines.

ATP13A2-mediated endo-lysosomal polyamine export counters mitochondrial oxidative stress

Mutations in ATP13A2 cause a spectrum of related neurodegenerative disorders. ATP13A2 is a lysosomal exporter of polyamines that contributes to lysosomal health and controls cellular polyamine content. Conversely, loss of ATP13A2 leads to lysosomal dysfunction, a hallmark of neurodegeneration. Here, we show that polyamines transported by ATP13A2 provide cellular protection by lowering reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may relate to the antioxidant properties of polyamines. Consequently, dysfunctional ATP13A2 sensitizes cells to oxidative stress, which impairs mitochondria, and induces toxicity and cell death. ATP13A2-mediated polyamine transport represents a conserved pathway that protects against mitochondrial oxidative stress. The combined protective impact of ATP13A2 on lysosomal health and mitochondrial oxidative stress may explain why ATP13A2 exerts potent neuroprotective effects.

Recessive loss-of-function mutations in ATP13A2 (PARK9) are associated with a spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). We recently revealed that the late endo-lysosomal transporter ATP13A2 pumps polyamines like spermine into the cytosol, whereas ATP13A2 dysfunction causes lysosomal polyamine accumulation and rupture. Here, we investigate how ATP13A2 provides protection against mitochondrial toxins such as rotenone, an environmental PD risk factor. Rotenone promoted mitochondrial-generated superoxide (MitoROS), which was exacerbated by ATP13A2 deficiency in SH-SY5Y cells and patient-derived fibroblasts, disturbing mitochondrial functionality and inducing toxicity and cell death. Moreover, ATP13A2 knockdown induced an ATF4-CHOP-dependent stress response following rotenone exposure. MitoROS and ATF4-CHOP were blocked by MitoTEMPO, a mitochondrial antioxidant, suggesting that the impact of ATP13A2 on MitoROS may relate to the antioxidant properties of spermine. Pharmacological inhibition of intracellular polyamine synthesis with α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) also increased MitoROS and ATF4 when ATP13A2 was deficient. The polyamine transport activity of ATP13A2 was required for lowering rotenone/DFMO-induced MitoROS, whereas exogenous spermine quenched rotenone-induced MitoROS via ATP13A2. Interestingly, fluorescently labeled spermine uptake in the mitochondria dropped as a consequence of ATP13A2 transport deficiency. Our cellular observations were recapitulated in vivo, in a Caenorhabditis elegans strain deficient in the ATP13A2 ortholog catp-6. These animals exhibited a basal elevated MitoROS level, mitochondrial dysfunction, and enhanced stress response regulated by atfs-1, the C. elegans ortholog of ATF4, causing hypersensitivity to rotenone, which was reversible with MitoTEMPO. Together, our study reveals a conserved cell protective pathway that counters mitochondrial oxidative stress via ATP13A2-mediated lysosomal spermine export.

Accumulation of Agmatine, Spermidine, and Spermine in Sprouts and Microgreens of Alfalfa, Fenugreek, Lentil, and Daikon Radish

Sprouts and microgreens are a rich source of various bioactive compounds. Seeds of lentil, fenugreek, alfalfa, and daikon radish seeds were germinated and the contents of the polyamines agmatine (AGM), putrescine (PUT), cadaverine (CAD), spermidine (SPD), and spermine (SPM) in ungerminated seeds, sprouts, and microgreens were determined. In general, sprouting led to the accumulation of the total polyamine content. The highest levels of AGM (5392 mg/kg) were found in alfalfa microgreens, PUT (1079 mg/kg) and CAD (3563 mg/kg) in fenugreek sprouts, SPD (579 mg/kg) in lentil microgreens, and SPM (922 mg/kg) in fenugreek microgreens. A large increase in CAD content was observed in all three legume sprouts. Conversely, the nutritionally beneficial polyamines AGM, SPD, and SPM were accumulated in microgreens, while their contents of CAD were significantly lower. In contrast, daikon radish sprouts exhibited a nutritionally better profile of polyamines than the microgreens. Freezing and thawing of legume sprouts resulted in significant degradation of CAD, PUT, and AGM by endogenous diamine oxidases. The enzymatic potential of fenugreek sprouts can be used to degrade exogenous PUT, CAD, and tyramine at pH values above 5.

Immune response of mollusk Onchidium struma to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF, 50 Hz) exposure based on immune-related enzyme activity and De novo transcriptome analysis

Along with rapid offshore and onshore wind power development in modern society, extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) is produced extensively in the habits of aquatic organisms. However, the biological effects of ELF-EMF on aquatic organisms are almost sparse. In this study, Onchidium struma without shell was chosen to aim whether ELF-EMF can elicit immune response of mollusk based on immune-related enzyme activities and gene expression through high-throughput transcriptome sequencing. Three experimental groups, i.e. ELF-EMF unexposed control group (C), ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 100 μT) exposed E1 group, and ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 500 μT) exposed E2 group, were set, and coelomocytes were collected to analyze. The results showed that total coelomocyte and spherulocyte density in E1 group increased significantly compared to groups C and E2 (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences on amoebocyte and chromatocyte density among groups C, E1 and E2. ELF-EMF exposure could significantly increase immune-related enzyme activities in coelomic fluid of O. struma, including acidic phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, antioxidative capacity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and polyphenol oxidase (P < 0.05). A total of 54.32 Mb and 55.27 Mb raw reads with average length of 1520 bp were obtained from coelomocytes of O. struma in unexposed and exposed groups, respectively. There were 341 differentially expressed genes (DGEs) between unexposed and exposed groups, including 209 up-regulated and 132 down-regulated unigenes. All the DGEs were allocated to 14 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, and five pathways were associated with immune response, including TLR/TNF/NOD-like receptor/MAPK/Fc epsilon RI signaling pathways. Altogether, short-term (to one week) exposure of O. struma to lower luxy density ELF-EMF (<500 μT) could elicit the immune response, and antioxidant system is recommended as indicators of immunological effects. Hopefully, this study will further provide insights into exploring biomarker for evaluation of the effect of ELF-EMF exposure on aquatic organisms regarding to field density, frequency and exposure duration, and provide good guidance for exploitation and utilization of renewable energy.

Antioxidant system of soiny mullet (Liza haematocheila) is responsive to dietary poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) supplementation based on immune-related enzyme activity and de novo transcriptome analysis

As a dietary supplement, poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) has been reported to positively influence growth, boost the immune system and enhance disease resistance in fish and shellfish. However, the protective mechanism is little known. Thus, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of PHB supplementation on immune-related enzyme activity and transcriptome-based gene expression in soiny mullet (Liza haematocheila). Results showed that dietary PHB supplementation could increase antioxidant enzyme activity, including total antioxidant capacity, catalase and superoxide dismutase. A total of 7,082,094,175 and 7,650,341,357 raw reads with mean length of 757 bp were obtained from control and PHB (dietary PHB supplementation at 2%) groups, respectively. There were 46,106 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between control and PHB groups, including 21,828 upregulated and 24,278 downregulated DEGs. All the DEGs were classified into three gene ontology categories, and 312 DEGs related with immune system process and 760 with the response to a stimulus. Additionally, all DEGs were allocated to 261 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome pathways, and major immune-related pathways were detected, including MAPK/PI3K-Akt/TNF/NF-κB/TCR/TLR signaling pathways. Moreover, the regulation of several observed immune-related genes was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Altogether, this study suggests that antioxidant system is more effective for dietary PHB supplementation and lays the foundation for further study on the precise immunostimulatory mechanism of PHB. Hopefully, it provides insights into exploring biomarker for assessment of immunostimulants in fish culture.

Changes in cardiac and hepatic energetic metabolism in gerbils infected by Listeria monocytogenes

Energy metabolism is a sensitive indicator of cellular disorders. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate changes in cardiac and hepatic energy metabolism during listeriosis using an experimental model. We divided gerbils into two groups: Control (n = 11) and orally Infected (n = 12) with 5 × 10⁹ CFU/mL of Listeria monocytogenes. Euthanasia and sampling were performed on days 6 and 12 post-infection (PI). Histopathological lesions were not found in the heart; however, the liver showed pyogranuloma. In the hearts of infected animals, cytosolic creatine kinase activity was lower on day 6 and 12 PI; mitochondrial creatine kinase/pyruvate kinase (PK), and sodium potassium pump (Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase) activities were lower on day 12 PI. Hepatic PK and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activities were lower in the infected group on day 12 PI. Lipoperoxidation was higher in the livers and hearts of infected animals on day 12 PI, and antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP) was also higher in this group. These data suggest that subclinical listeriosis alters hepatic and cardiac energy metabolism, possibly related to decreased activity of phosphotransferases and ATPase. Subsequent antioxidant responses are not sufficient to correct alterations in lipid peroxidation and bioenergetics, possibly leading to important cellular pathological mechanisms.

Effects of dietary poly-β-hydroxybutyrate supplementation on the growth, immune response and intestinal microbiota of soiny mullet (Liza haematocheila)

Soiny mullet (Liza haematocheila) is an important economic fish species in China, but stress and diseases have seriously restricted its culture. There are no effective methods including vaccines to prevent or control these diseases. Alternative methods should be employed, such as using novel immunostimulant poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB). The present study aimed to evaluate effects of dietary PHB supplementation on the growth, antioxidant enzymes activity, immune-related genes expression and intestinal microbiota in soiny mullet. The fish was fed for 30 or 60 days with six diets at different PHB supplementation of 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8%, named as groups P0, P0.5, P1, P2, P4 and P8. The results showed that the weight gain and specific growth rate of fish in P2 and P0.5 groups were significantly higher than those in control P0 group at 30 and 60 days, respectively (P < 0.05). The antioxidant enzymes activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in serum were significantly increased in P0.5/P1/P2 groups after 30 days. The transcriptional levels of penicillin-binding protein A and interleukin-8 analyzed by qRT-PCR were significantly upregulated in P2 and P4 groups compared to those in P0/P0.5/P1/P8 groups at 30 days. The transcriptional level of major histocompatibility complex class II in P2 group was significantly upregulated, and aldehyde oxidase downregulated compared to P0 group. Intestinal microbiota analysis by Illumina high-throughput sequencing showed that the microbiota diversity was not changed significantly, but the microbiota structure shifted significantly post PHB treatment. At the phyla level, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were predominant in both P0 and P2 groups. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Bacillus spp. in P2 group increased significantly, and abundance of Achromobacter spp. decreased significantly. KEGG pathway analysis by PICRUSt showed that oral administration PHB significantly upregulated abundances of genes responsible for 10 pathways and downregulated genes involved in 17 pathways. In conclusion, soiny mullet fed with 2% PHB supplemental diets for 30 days showed better growth performance, higher antioxidant enzymes activity and immune-related genes expression. Their regulation of growth and immunity might be related with the intestinal microbiota change post PHB supplementation. It will provide very useful basic information to study the regulation mechanism of PHB in aquatic animals, and provide good green method to prevent disease in soiny mullet.

Effects of saccharicterpenin on antioxidant status and urinary metabolic profile of rats

Saccharicterpenin is a new green additive agent that is derived from the extract of Theaceae plants and has the ability to improve immunity and meat quality, increase the digestive enzyme activity, and enhance the intestinal development and growth of animals. However, the antioxidant status and systematic changes in metabolic biochemistry associated with saccharicterpenin supplementation in animals are still unknown. This study examined the effects of saccharicterpenin on the antioxidant status and urinary metabolic profile of rats. Sixteen rats were randomly distributed to 2 groups. One group was treated with 400 mg/kg body weight of saccharicterpenin, and the other group was treated with equal amount of saline. Results revealed that saccharicterpenin significantly increased the capacities of anti-hydroxyl radical (13.18%) and anti-superoxide anion (14.36%), the total antioxidant capacity (48.27%), and the activities of total superoxide dismutase (3.68%), catalase (21.52%), glutathione peroxidase (5.83%) and glutathione S-transferase (29.59%) (P < 0.05). By contrast, the contents of malondialdehyde and glutathione were not significantly affected by saccharicterpenin (P > 0.05). Saccharicterpenin supplementation significantly increased the urinary levels of bile acids, ethanol, α-ketoglutarate, and α-hydroxybutyrate but decreased the level of N-acetylglutamate (P < 0.05). In summary, saccharicterpenin can enhance the antioxidant capacity and modulate the metabolism in rats.

Effects of spermine on liver barrier function, amino acid transporters, immune status, and apoptosis in piglets

This study investigated the effects of spermine supplementation and its extended duration on amino acid transporters, immune status, barrier function, and apoptosis in the liver.

Effects of putrescine on gene expression in relation to physical barriers and antioxidant capacity in organs of weaning piglets

Weaning stress can cause metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction, physical barrier injury and disease susceptibility, thus leading to impaired growth and health of animals. Putrescine has the potential to reduce stress effects. However, the role of putrescine supplementation on barrier function and antioxidant capacity in animals' organs is largely unknown. This study evaluates the effects of putrescine on the physical barrier function, antioxidant status and related signalling molecule levels of weaning piglets' organs. A total of 24 weaning piglets were assigned to four treatment groups: (1) basal diet (control) and basal diets supplemented with (2) 0.05%, (3) 0.1% and (4) 0.15% putrescine. At the end of the 11 day experiment, ileum, liver, thymus and spleen samples were collected from the piglets. Compared with the control group, 0.15% putrescine can significantly increase anti-hydroxyl radical capacity (ileum and spleen), anti-superoxide anion capacity (liver, thymus and spleen), catalase (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), total superoxide dismutase (ileum, thymus and spleen), glutathione peroxidase (ileum, liver and thymus), glutathione S-transferase activity (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), glutathione content (liver and spleen) and total antioxidant capacity (ileum and thymus); decrease malondialdehyde (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), protein carbonyl content (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen); enhance mRNA expression of zonula occludens (ZO)-1 (spleen), ZO-2 (liver, thymus and spleen), occludin (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), claudin 1 (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), claudin 2 (ileum, thymus and spleen), claudin 3 (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), claudin 14 (ileum, liver and spleen), claudin 16 (ileum and liver), superoxide dismutase 1 (ileum, liver and thymus), glutathione peroxidase 1 (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), catalase (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen), glutathione reductase (thymus and spleen), glutathione S-transferase (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen) and nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (liver and thymus); decrease mRNA level of myosin light chain kinase (ileum, liver, thymus and spleen) and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (liver and spleen) (P < 0.05). 0.05% putrescine can significantly affect some of the above-mentioned parameters (P < 0.05). Collectively, putrescine supplementation improves organs' physical barrier function and antioxidant capacity in dose- and tissue-dependent and independent effects; such improvements are beneficial to the health of weaning piglets.

Weaning stress can cause metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction, physical barrier injury and disease susceptibility, thus leading to impaired growth and health of animals.

Exogenous putrescine affects polyamine and arginine metabolism in rat liver following bile ductus ligation

Rat bile duct ligation (BDL) represents a useful method that mimics obstructive extrahepatic cholestasis, which is known to be a frequent disorder in humans. Polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) are one of the key molecules regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. This work aimed to evaluate the potential beneficial properties of putrescine in rat BDL model by studying several biochemical parameters reflecting liver function and polyamine metabolism. Rats that were subjected to BDL were injected with putrescine (150 mg/kg) for 9 days, while in parallel another group with BDL remained untreated. Two control groups were included as well, sham-opened and putrescine-treated group. The following plasma parameters: ALT, AST, γ-GT, ALP, bilirubin, bile acids, as well as liver malondialdehyde and polyamine concentration and the activity of enzymes involved in polyamine metabolism were studied. After BDL, significant alterations in plasma biochemical parameters occurred, where a 9-day putrescine treatment significantly alleviated liver function deterioration. Putrescine also increased liver polyamines’ concentrations and polyamine and diamine oxidase activities in rats submitted to BDL. Our results demonstrated, for the first time, that putrescine plays an important role in preserving liver tissue function in rats with experimentally induced cholestasis.

Roles of dietary supplementation with arginine or N-carbamylglutamate in modulating the inflammation, antioxidant property, and mRNA expression of antioxidant-relative signaling molecules in the spleen of rats under oxidative stress

This study evaluated the effects of arginine (Arg) or N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) on inflammation, antioxidant property, and antioxidant-related gene expression in rat spleen under oxidative stress. A total of 52 rats were randomly distributed into 4 treatment groups with 13 replicates per group. Rats were fed a basal diet (BD) or BD supplemented with Arg or NCG for 30 days. On day 28, half of the BD-fed rats were intraperitoneally injected with sterile saline (control group), and the other half with 12 mg/kg body weight of diquat (DT; DT group). The other 2 diet groups were intraperitoneally injected with 12 mg/kg body weight of DT with either Arg (1%) (DT + Arg) or NCG (0.1%) (DT + NCG). Rat spleen samples were collected for analysis at 48 h after DT injection. Results showed that DT damaged the antioxidant defense in rats compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the DT group, the DT + Arg and DT + NCG groups manifested improved anti-hydroxyl radical, catalase, and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activities, increased glutathione content (P < 0.05), and decreased malondialdehyde content (P < 0.05). Moreover, compared with the DT group, the DT + Arg and DT + NCG groups enhanced mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), glutathione reductase (GR), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1(Keap-1), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) (P < 0.05). Both NCG and Arg significantly increased anti-inflammatory cytokine mRNA level but suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression under oxidative stress (P < 0.05). In summary, NCG and Arg effectively alleviated oxidative stress, improved the antioxidant capacity and regulated the antioxidant-related signaling molecular expression in rat spleen. N-carbamylglutamate and Arg reduced the inflammation in the spleen by mediating the gene expression of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β).