Oxidant and antioxidant balance in the airways and airway diseases

A Comparative Study of the Effects of Electronic Cigarette and Traditional Cigarette on the Pulmonary Functions of C57BL/6 Male Mice

INTRODUCTION

Electronic cigarettes (E-cigs) are in a controversial state. Although E-cig aerosol generally contains fewer harmful substances than smoke from burned traditional cigarettes, aerosol along with other compounds of the E-cigs may also affect lung functions and promote the development of lung-related diseases. We investigated the effects of E-cig on the pulmonary functions of male C57BL/6 mice and reveal the potential underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

A total of 60 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups. They were exposed to fresh-air, traditional cigarette smoke, E-cig vapor with 12 mg/mL of nicotine, and E-cig with no nicotine for 8 weeks. Lung functions were evaluated by using quantitative analysis of the whole body plethysmograph, FlexiVent system, lung tissue histological and morphometric analysis, and RT-PCR analysis of mRNA expression of inflammation-related genes. In addition, the effects of nicotine and acrolein on the survival rate and DNA damage were investigated using cultured human alveolar basal epithelial cells.

RESULTS

Exposure to E-cig vapor led to significant changes in lung functions and structures including the rupture of the alveolar cavity and enlarged alveolar space. The pathological changes were also accompanied by increased expression of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study indicate that the safety of E-cig should be further evaluated.

IMPLICATIONS

Some people currently believe that using nicotine-free E-cigs is a safe way to smoke. However, our research shows that E-cigs can cause lung damage regardless of whether they contain nicotine.

Superoxide-producing associates from gastrointestinal bacteria: stimulation of its growth by exogenous superoxide-producing complex from raspberries

Aerobic organisms including the gut microbiota have an essential antioxidant status, as a result of which these bacteria protect organisms from various pathologies and diseases. The goal of the given investigation is (1) the isolation and purification of the isoforms of endogenous О2--producing associate from gastrointestinal bacteria (Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum); (2) determination of the effective concentrations of exogenous О2- produced by a complex of NADPH-containing protein component and Fe(III) (NPC-Fe(III)) from raspberries on the growth of the gastrointestinal bacteria in a nutrient medium in vitro. Ion-exchange chromatography on cellulose DE-52 and gel filtration on Sephadex G-100 at the pH of 9.5 was used to isolate and purify the NLP-Nox isoforms. Specific maximal optical absorption spectra of the Nox isoforms were observed in a weakly opalescent aqueous solution of the NLP-Nox isoforms. The specific contents of these NLP-Nox isoforms, as well as their composition, the stationary concentration of produced О2-, and the mechanism of О2- production were determined. The stimulating effect on the growth of these gastrointestinal bacteria in the nutrient medium of MRS broth and MRS agar in vitro under the influence of О2-, as a product of a new thermostable and acid-stable complex NPC-Fe(III) was determined. The NPC-Fe(III) complex, from raspberries was determined as well. Thus, for the first time, the isolation and purification of О2-- producing thermostable NADPH-containing lipoprotein-NADPH oxidase (NLP-Nox) associate from gastrointestinal bacteria membranes (continuously producing О2- under the aerobic conditions), and the stimulation of these bacteria growth by О2- formed by the complex from raspberries were demonstrated.

Oral Administration of Sargassum horneri Suppresses Particulate Matter-Induced Oxidative DNA Damage in Alveolar Macrophages of Allergic Airway Inflammation: Relevance to PM-Mediated M1/M2 AM Polarization

SCOPE

Particulate matter (PM) can cause cellular oxidative damage and promote respiratory diseases. It has recently shown that Sargassum horneri ethanol extract (SHE) containing sterols and gallic acid reduces PM-induced oxidative stress in mice lung cells through ROS scavenging and metal chelating. In this study, the role of alveolar macrophages (AMs) is identified that are particularly susceptible to DNA damage due to PM-triggered oxidative stress in lungs of OVA-sensitized mice exposed to PM.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study scrutinizes if PM exposure causes oxidative DNA damage to AMs differentially depending on their type of polarization. Further, SHE's potential is investigated in reducing oxidative DNA damage in polarized AMs and restoring AM polarization in PM-induced allergic airway inflammation. The study discovers that PM triggers prolonged oxidative stress to AMs, leading to lipid peroxidation in them and alveolar epithelial cells. Particularly, AMs are polarized to M2 phenotype (F4/80+ CD206+ ) with enhanced oxidative DNA damage when subject to PM-induced oxidative stress. However, SHE repairs oxidative DNA damage in M1- and M2-polarized AMs and reduces AMs polarization imbalance due to PM exposure.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the possibility of SHE as beneficial foods against PM-induced allergic airway inflammation via suppression of AM dysfunction.

Roles of Nrf2/HO-1 and ICAM-1 in the Protective Effect of Nano-Curcumin against Copper-Induced Lung Injury

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element for maintaining normal homeostasis in living organisms. Yet, an elevated level of Cu beyond homeostatic capacity may lead to oxidative damage of cellular components in several organs, including the lungs. This work investigated the effects of curcumin (Curc) and nano-curcumin (nCurc) against Cu-induced lung injury, accenting the roles of oxidative stress, inflammation, and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor/heme oxygenase-1 Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Rats were challenged with 100 mg/kg of copper sulfate (CuSO4) while being treated with Curc or nCurc for 7 days. Cu-triggered lung oxidative stress detected as dysregulation of oxidative/antioxidant markers, a downregulation of Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling, and an increase in the inflammatory markers interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Additionally, it decreased the expression of lung-specific proteins, surfactant protein-C (SP-C), and mucin-1 (MUC-1), induced apoptosis, and caused changes in lung histology. Curc and nCurc alleviated CuSO4-induced lung injury by suppressing oxidative damage and inflammation and activating Nrf-2/HO-1. They also prevented apoptosis and restored the normal expression of SP-C and MUC-1. We concluded that nCurc exhibited superior efficacy compared with Curc in mitigating CuSO4-induced lung injury. This was associated with reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic responses and increased Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and expression of SP-C and MUC-1.

Cigarette Smoke-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species Formation: A Concise Review

Smoking is recognized as a significant risk factor for numerous disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory conditions, and various forms of cancer. While the exact pathogenic mechanisms continue to be explored, the induction of oxidative stress via the production of excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) is widely accepted as a primary molecular event that predisposes individuals to these smoking-related ailments. This review focused on how cigarette smoke (CS) promotes ROS formation rather than the pathophysiological repercussions of ROS and oxidative stress. A comprehensive analysis of existing studies revealed the following key ways through which CS imposes ROS burden on biological systems: (1) ROS, as well as radicals, are intrinsically present in CS, (2) CS constituents generate ROS through chemical reactions with biomolecules, (3) CS stimulates cellular ROS sources to enhance production, and (4) CS disrupts the antioxidant system, aggravating the ROS generation and its functions. While the evidence supporting these mechanisms is chiefly based on in vitro and animal studies, the direct clinical relevance remains to be fully elucidated. Nevertheless, this understanding is fundamental for deciphering molecular events leading to oxidative stress and for developing intervention strategies to counter CS-induced oxidative stress.

Advances in the Use of N-Acetylcysteine in Chronic Respiratory Diseases

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is widely used because of its mucolytic effects, taking part in the therapeutic protocols of cystic fibrosis. NAC is also administered as an antidote in acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdosing. Thanks to its wide antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, NAC may also be of benefit in other chronic inflammatory and fibrotizing respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, idiopathic lung fibrosis, or lung silicosis. In addition, NAC exerts low toxicity and rare adverse effects even in combination with other treatments, and it is cheap and easily accessible. This article brings a review of information on the mechanisms of inflammation and oxidative stress in selected chronic respiratory diseases and discusses the use of NAC in these disorders.

Multiphase Kinetic Modeling of Air Pollutant Effects on Protein Modification and Nitrotyrosine Formation in Epithelial Lining Fluid

Exposure to ambient air pollution is a major risk factor for human health. Inhalation of air pollutants can enhance the formation of reactive species in the epithelial lining fluid (ELF) of the respiratory tract and can lead to oxidative stress and oxidative damage. Here, we investigate the chemical modification of proteins by reactive species from air pollution and endogenous biological sources using an extended version of the multiphase chemical kinetic model KM-SUB-ELF 2.0 with a detailed mechanism of protein modification. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (•NO2) act synergistically and increase the formation of nitrotyrosine (Ntyr), a common biomarker of oxidative stress. Ozone (O3) is found to be a burden on the antioxidant defense system but without substantial influence on the Ntyr concentration. In simulations with low levels of air pollution, the Ntyr concentration in the ELF is consistent with the range of literature values for bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from healthy individuals. With high levels of air pollution, however, we obtain strongly elevated Ntyr concentrations. Our model analysis shows how chemical reactions of air pollutants can modify proteins and thus their functionality in the human body, elucidating a molecular pathway that may explain air pollutant effects on human health.

Protective effects of inhaled antioxidants against air pollution-induced pathological responses

As the public health burden of air pollution continues to increase, new strategies to mitigate harmful health effects are needed. Dietary antioxidants have previously been explored to protect against air pollution-induced lung injury producing inconclusive results. Inhaled (pulmonary or nasal) administration of antioxidants presents a more promising approach as it could directly increase antioxidant levels in the airway surface liquid (ASL), providing protection against oxidative damage from air pollution. Several antioxidants have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties in in vitro and in vivo models of air pollution exposure; however, little work has been done to translate these basic research findings into practice. This narrative review summarizes these findings and data from human studies using inhaled antioxidants in response to air pollution, which have produced positive results, indicating further investigation is warranted. In addition to human studies, cell and murine studies should be conducted using more relevant models of exposure such as air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures of primary cells and non-aqueous apical delivery of antioxidants and pollutants. Inhalation of antioxidants shows promise as a protective intervention to prevent air pollution-induced lung injury and exacerbation of existing lung disease.

The Effectiveness of Supplementation with Key Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants and Specific Nutritional Supplements in COPD-A Review

Currently, an increasing amount of evidence supports the notion that vitamins C, D and E, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids may protect against the progression of chronic respiratory diseases. Although chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) primarily affects the lung, it is often accompanied by extrapulmonary manifestations such as weight loss and malnutrition, skeletal muscle dysfunction, and an excess of harmful oxidants, which can lead to a decline in quality of life and possible death. Recently, the role of various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in mitigating the effects of environmental pollution and smoking has received significant attention. Therefore, this review evaluates the most relevant and up-to-date evidence on this topic. We conducted a literature review between 15 May 2018 and 15 May 2023, using the electronic database PubMed. Our search keywords included COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, FEV₁, supplementation: vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B, omega-3, minerals, antioxidants, specific nutrient supplementations, clinical trials, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We focused on studies that measured the serum levels of vitamins, as these are a more objective measure than patient self-reports. Our findings suggest that the role of appropriate dietary supplements needs to be reconsidered for individuals who are predisposed to or at risk of these conditions.

Oxidative Stress in a Mother Consuming Alcohol during Pregnancy and in Her Newborn: A Case Report

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a set of conditions resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). FASD is estimated to affect between 2% and 5% of people in the United States and Western Europe. The exact teratogenic mechanism of alcohol on fetal development is still unclear. Ethanol (EtOH) contributes to the malfunctioning of the neurological system in children exposed in utero by decreasing glutathione peroxidase action, with an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which causes oxidative stress. We report a case of a mother with declared alcohol abuse and cigarette smoking during pregnancy. By analyzing the ethyl glucuronide (EtG, a metabolite of alcohol) and the nicotine/cotinine in the mother's hair and meconium, we confirmed the alcohol and smoking abuse magnitude. We also found that the mother during pregnancy was a cocaine abuser. As a result, her newborn was diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). At the time of the delivery, the mother, but not the newborn, had an elevation in oxidative stress. However, the infant, a few days later, displayed marked potentiation in oxidative stress. The clinical complexity of the events involving the infant was presented and discussed, underlining also the importance that for cases of FASD, it is crucial to have more intensive hospital monitoring and controls during the initial days.

Cigarette Smoke-Induced Respiratory Response: Insights into Cellular Processes and Biomarkers

Cigarette smoke (CS) poses a significant risk factor for respiratory, vascular, and organ diseases owing to its high content of harmful chemicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). These substances are known to induce oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and senescence due to their exposure to environmental pollutants and the presence of oxidative enzymes. The lung is particularly susceptible to oxidative stress. Persistent oxidative stress caused by chronic exposure to CS can lead to respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis (PF), and lung cancer. Avoiding exposure to environmental pollutants, like cigarette smoke and air pollution, can help mitigate oxidative stress. A comprehensive understanding of oxidative stress and its impact on the lungs requires future research. This includes identifying strategies for preventing and treating lung diseases as well as investigating the underlying mechanisms behind oxidative stress. Thus, this review aims to investigate the cellular processes induced by CS, specifically inflammation, apoptosis, senescence, and their associated biomarkers. Furthermore, this review will delve into the alveolar response provoked by CS, emphasizing the roles of potential therapeutic target markers and strategies in inflammation and oxidative stress.

The potential role of pumpkin seeds oil on methotrexate-induced lung toxicity

Many chemotherapeutic drugs cause adverse pulmonary reactions leading to severe pulmonary disease. Though methotrexate (MTX) is used for the treatment of cancer and other diseases, it is highly toxic with multiple adverse effects including pulmonary toxicity. Essential oils represent an open frontier for pharmaceutical sciences due to their wide range of pharmacological properties. Pumpkin seeds oil (PSO) was used to investigate its ability to alleviate methotrexate-induced lung toxicity in rats. Lung tissue from MTX-treated group revealed a decrease in malondialdehyde, glutathione, and nitric oxide accompanied by a marked inhibition in cholinesterase activity, and enhanced catalase activity, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor levels. Analysis of PSO revealed that the oil was rich in hexadecanoic acid, decane methyl esters, squalene, polydecane, docosane, and other derivatives. Administration of PSO ameliorated the oxidant/antioxidant and proinflammatory changes induced by MTX in the lung tissue. Histological examinations confirmed the potency of PSO in reducing the histopathological alterations induced by MTX. Immunohistochemical analysis showed decreased nuclear factor-kappa B and caspase 3 expression after PSO. The present data indicated the protective efficiency of PSO against MTX-induced lung injury by decreasing oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis and could thus be recommended as an adjuvant therapy.

Assessing oxidative stress induction ability and oxidative potential of PM2.5 in cities in eastern and western Japan

Oxidative stress is an important cause of respiratory diseases associated with exposure to PM_2.5. Accordingly, acellular methods for assessing the oxidative potential (OP) of PM_2.5 have been evaluated extensively for use as indicators of oxidative stress in living organisms. However, OP-based assessments only reflect the physicochemical properties of particles and do not consider particle-cell interactions. Therefore, to determine the potency of OP under various PM_2.5 scenarios, oxidative stress induction ability (OSIA) assessments were performed using a cell-based method, the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) assay, and the findings were compared with OP measurements obtained using an acellular method, the dithiothreitol assay. For these assays, PM_2.5 filter samples were collected in two cities in Japan. To quantitatively determine the relative contribution of the quantity of metals and subtypes of organic aerosols (OA) in PM_2.5 to the OSIA and the OP, online measurements and offline chemical analysis were also performed. The findings showed a positive relationship between the OSIA and OP for water-extracted samples, confirming that the OP is generally well suited for use as an indicator of the OSIA. However, the correspondence between the two assays differed for samples with a high water-soluble (WS)-Pb content, which had a higher OSIA than would be expected from the OP of other samples. The results of reagent-solution experiments showed that the WS-Pb induced the OSIA, but not the OP, in 15-min reactions, suggesting a reason for the inconsistent relationship between the two assays across samples. Multiple linear regression analyses and reagent-solution experiments showed that WS transition metals and biomass burning OA accounted for approximately 30-40% and 50% of the total OSIA or the total OP of water-extracted PM_2.5 samples, respectively. This is the first study to evaluate the association between cellular oxidative stress assessed by the HO-1 assay and the different subtypes of OA.

A Rodent Model of Human-Dose-Equivalent 5-Fluorouracil: Toxicity in the Liver, Kidneys, and Lungs

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a chemotherapy drug widely used to treat a range of cancer types, despite the recurrence of adverse reactions. Therefore, information on its side effects when administered at a clinically recommended dose is relevant. On this basis, we examined the effects of the 5-FU clinical treatment on the integrity of the liver, kidneys, and lungs of rats. For this purpose, 14 male Wistar rats were divided into treated and control groups and 5-FU was administered at 15 mg/kg (4 consecutive days), 6 mg/kg (4 alternate days), and 15 mg/kg on the 14th day. On the 15th day, blood, liver, kidney, and lung samples were collected for histological, oxidative stress, and inflammatory evaluations. We observed a reduction in the antioxidant markers and an increase in lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) in the liver of treated animals. We also detected elevated levels of inflammatory markers, histological lesions, apoptotic cells, and aspartate aminotransferase. Clinical treatment with 5-FU did not promote inflammatory or oxidative alterations in the kidney samples; however, histological and biochemical changes were observed, including increased serum urea and uric acid. 5-FU reduces endogenous antioxidant defenses and increases LOOH levels in the lungs, suggesting oxidative stress. Inflammation and histopathological alterations were also detected. The clinical protocol of 5-FU promotes toxicity in the liver, kidneys, and lungs of healthy rats, resulting in different levels of histological and biochemical alterations. These results will be useful in the search for new adjuvants to attenuate the adverse effects of 5-FU in such organs.

GSPE attenuates CSE-induced lung inflammation and emphysema by regulating autophagy via the reactive oxygen species/TFEB signaling pathway

Cigarette smoke can enhance reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in inflammatory and epithelial cells. Subsequently, ROS enhance autophagy-induced inflammation due to alveolar macrophages (AMs), the primary source of cytokines implicated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis. Therefore, we hypothesized that grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE), an effective antioxidant, could inhibit emphysema and airway inflammation by ameliorating cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced autophagy via suppressing oxidative stress in macrophages. We observed that GSPE significantly attenuated histological changes observed in CSE-induced emphysema and airway inflammation in the lungs of mice. Moreover, GSPE ameliorated lung inflammation by reducing the number of cells, macrophages, and neutrophils and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 levels measured in bronchioloalveolar lavage fluid. ROS levels increased after CSE instillation and significantly decreased with in vitro GSPE treatment. GSPE decreased transcription factor EB (TFEB) oxidation by reducing ROS, inhibiting TFEB nuclear translocation. Furthermore, GSPE inhibited ROS-induced autophagy in RAW 264.7 cells, bone marrow-derived macrophages, and AMs. Inhibiting autophagy through GSPE treatment diminishes CSE-induced lung inflammation by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome. This study demonstrates that GSPE can ameliorate CSE-induced inflammation and emphysema via autophagy-induced NLRP3 inflammasome regulation through the ROS/TFEB signaling pathway in a COPD mouse model.

Dietary, locomotory, and metabolic reactions of Abax parallelus (Coleoptera, Carabidae) to acute thiamethoxam intoxication

Carabids (Coleoptera: Carabidae) are abundant predators in ecosystems and serve as pest biocontrol in agroecosystems and forestry. Here we test the impact of thiamethoxam, among the most used neonicotinoids on the consumption rate, locomotion, metabolomics, and oxidative stress level measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in a predatory carabid, Abax parallelus (Duftschmid, 1812), after acute exposure in the laboratory trials, to get additional data that might link the use of pesticides and predation efficiency. Beetles were exposed to increasing concentrations of thiamethoxam by dipping method, and left to feed overnight prior to the assays. The results showed that individuals treated with higher concentrations of thiamethoxam (20 and 40 mg/L) consumed significantly less food per body weight and had a higher share of intoxicated and moribund individuals. The mass of consumed food per beetle body weight and observed locomotion did not differ significantly between control and groups treated with lower concentrations of thiamethoxam. There are significant differences in concentrations of some metabolites between treated and control individuals, primary in succinate and d-glucose, indicating a disruption in energy production. On the other hand, there is no statistically significant differences in SOD activity among the groups. To conclude, acute exposure to thiamethoxam can result in negative sub-lethal effects in predatory activity and energy budget, while the effects of long-term exposure to lower doses require further research, as well as field assessment on the predation efficiency after pesticide application.

Crosstalk between Oxidative Stress and Aging in Neurodegeneration Disorders

The world population is aging rapidly, and increasing lifespan exacerbates the burden of age-related health issues. On the other hand, premature aging has begun to be a problem, with increasing numbers of younger people suffering aging-related symptoms. Advanced aging is caused by a combination of factors: lifestyle, diet, external and internal factors, as well as oxidative stress (OS). Although OS is the most researched aging factor, it is also the least understood. OS is important not only in relation to aging but also due to its strong impact on neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). In this review, we will discuss the aging process in relation to OS, the function of OS in neurodegenerative disorders, and prospective therapeutics capable of relieving neurodegenerative symptoms associated with the pro-oxidative condition.

Ozone in the adjunct medical treatment. The round personality of a molecule with hormetic properties

Ozone, an allotrope of oxygen, is enjoying an increasing interest in the setting and management of the medical adjunct treatment, which is called, maybe too simplistically, "ozone therapy". Ozone is not a medicine, so the word therapy does not properly fit this gaseous molecule. Like many natural compounds, for example plant flavonoids, even ozone interacts with aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhRs) and, at low doses, it works according to the paradoxical mechanism of hormesis, involving mitochondria (mitohormesis). Ozone, in the hormetic range, exerts cell protective functions via the Nrf2-mediated activation of the anti-oxidant system, then leading to anti-inflammatory effects, also via the triggering of low doses of 4-HNE. Moreover, its interaction with plasma and lipids forms reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipoperoxides (LPOs), generally called ozonides, which are enabled to rule the major molecular actions of ozone in the cell. Ozone behaves as a bioregulator, by activating a wide population of reactive intermediates, which usually target mitochondria and their turnover/biogenesis, often leading to a pleiotropic spectrum of actions and behaving as a tuner of the fundamental mechanisms of survival in the cell. In this sense, ozone can be considered a novelty in the medical sciences and in the clinical approach to pharmacology and medical therapy, due to its ability to target complex regulatory systems and not simple receptors.

Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress: Signaling Mechanisms, Redox Basis for Human Diseases, and Cell Cycle Regulation

Free radicals contain one or more unpaired electrons in their valence shell, thus making them unstable, short-lived, and highly reactive species. Excessive generation of these free radicals ultimately leads to oxidative stress causing oxidation and damage to significant macromolecules in the living system and essentially disrupting signal transduction pathways and antioxidants equilibrium. At lower concentrations, ROS serves as "second messengers," influencing many physiological processes in the cell. However, higher concentrations beyond cell capacity cause oxidative stress, contributing to human pathologies such as diabetes, cancer, Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular diseases, cataract, asthma, hypertension, atherosclerosis, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. Signaling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPKs, PI3K/Akt/ mTOR, and Keap1-Nrf2- ARE modulate the detrimental effects of oxidative stress by increasing the expression of cellular antioxidant defenses, phase II detoxification enzymes, and decreased production of ROS. Free radicals such as H2O2 are indeed needed for the advancement of the cell cycle as these molecules influence DNA, proteins, and enzymes in the cell cycle pathway. In the course of cell cycle progression, the cellular redox environment becomes more oxidized, moving from the G1 phase, becoming higher in G2/M and moderate in the S phase. Signals in the form of an increase in cellular pro-oxidant levels are required, and these signals are often terminated by a rise in the amount of antioxidants and MnSOD with a decrease in the level of cyclin D1 proteins. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of cell cycle redox regulation will help in the therapy of many diseases.

Plant-Based Diets and the Incidence of Asthma Symptoms among Elderly Women, and the Mediating Role of Body Mass Index

We aimed to test the hypothesis that adherence to a healthful plant-based diet (hPDI) is associated with a subsequent decrease in the incidence of asthma symptoms, with an opposite association with adherence to an unhealthful plant-based diet (uPDI). In addition, we evaluated a potential mediating role of body mass index (BMI) and the modifying effect of smoking. Among 5700 elderly women from the French Asthma-E3N study with dietary data in 1993 and 2005, we assessed the incidence of asthma symptoms in 2018 among women with no asthma symptoms in 2011. BMI was evaluated in 2008. Mediation analyses in the counterfactual framework were used to disentangle total, direct, and indirect effects mediated by BMI. We found that both healthful and unhealthful plant-based diets were associated with a lower incidence of asthma symptoms over time, mediated by BMI (OR (95%CI) for the indirect effect: 0.94 (0.89-1.00) for hPDI and 0.92 (0.70-1.00) for uPDI)). Associations with both healthful and unhealthful PDIs were mediated by changes in BMI by 33% and 89%, respectively. Plant-based diets (healthful and unhealthful) were associated with subsequently reduced incidences of asthma symptoms over time, partly or almost totally mediated by BMI according to their nutritional quality.

A bibliometric analysis of autophagy in lung diseases from 2012 to 2021

Background

Autophagy refers to the process in which cells wrap their damaged organelles or unwanted proteins into a double-membrane structure and direct them to lysosomes for degradation. Autophagy can regulate many lung diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, acute lung injury, and lung cancer. However, few bibliometric studies on autophagy are available. The aim of the present study was to clarify the role of autophagy in lung diseases by bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Publications were retrieved from the 2012-2021 Science Citation Index Expanded of Web of Science Core Collection on 20 September 2022. Bibliometrix package in R software was used for data retrieval. VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to visualize the research focus and trend regarding the effect of autophagy on lung disease.

Results

A total of 4,522 original articles and reviews on autophagy in lung diseases published between 2012 and 2021 were identified. China had the largest number of published papers and citations, whereas the United States (US) ranked first in the H-index and G-index. Moreover, cooperation network analysis showed close cooperation between the US, China, and some European countries, and the top 10 affiliates were all from these countries and regions. Bibliometric analysis showed that "autophagy" and "apoptosis" were the keywords with the highest frequency. During the past decade, most studies were concerned with basic research on pathways related to the regulatory role of autophagy in the inhibition and attenuation of lung diseases.

Conclusion

The study of autophagy in lung diseases is still in the development stage. The information published in these articles has helped researchers understand further the hot spots and development trends in the field more and learn about the collaboration network information regarding authors, countries, and institutions, as well as the paper citation correlation. More studies have been performed to gain deeper insights into the pathogenesis of autophagy by focusing on the links and effects between various diseases. More recently, research in this field has paid increasing attention to the function of autophagy in COVID-19-related lung diseases.

Molecular Regulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression by E2F Transcription Factor 2 in Lung Fibroblast Cells: Relevance to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal chronic lung disease. Heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1/HO-1) is an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of heme. The role of HO-1 in the pathogenesis of IPF has been studied; however, the molecular regulation of HO-1 and its role in IPF are still unclear. In this study, we found that HO-1 protein levels significantly increased in lung myofibroblasts in IPF patients and in lungs in a murine model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. In addition, we observed that administration of a E2F transcription factor inhibitor elevated HO-1 mRNA and protein levels in lung fibroblasts. Downregulation of E2F2 by siRNA transfection increased HO-1 mRNA and protein levels, while overexpression of E2F2 reduced HO-1 levels. However, overexpression of E2F2 did not alter hemin-induced HO-1 protein levels. Furthermore, modulation of HO-1 levels regulated TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast differentiation without altering the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 in lung fibroblast cells. Moreover, the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) was significantly upregulated in HO-1-depleted lung fibroblast cells. In summary, this study demonstrated that E2F2 regulates the baseline expression of HO-1, but has no effect on modulating HO-1 expression by hemin. Finally, elevated HO-1 expression contributes to the TGF-β1-induced lung myofibroblast differentiation through the activation of the serine/threonine kinase AKT pathway. Overall, our findings suggest that targeting E2F2/HO-1 might be a new therapeutic strategy to treat fibrotic diseases such as IPF.

Cigarette Smoke Impairs Airway Epithelial Wound Repair: Role of Modulation of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Processes and Notch-1 Signaling

Cigarette smoke (CS) induces oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in airway epithelium. It is a major risk factor for respiratory diseases, characterized by epithelial injury. The impact of CS on airway epithelial repair, which involves epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the Notch-1 pathway, is incompletely understood. In this study, we used primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs) to evaluate the effect of CS on epithelial repair and these mechanisms. The effect of CS and/or TGF-beta1 on wound repair, various EMT and Notch-1 pathway markers and epithelial cell markers (TP63, SCGB1A) was assessed in PBECs cultured submerged, at the air–liquid interface (ALI) alone and in co-culture with fibroblasts. TGF-beta1 increased epithelial wound repair, activated EMT (shown by decrease in E-cadherin, and increases in vimentin, SNAIL1/SNAIL2/ZEB1), and increased Notch-1 pathway markers (NOTCH1/JAGGED1/HES1), MMP9, TP63, SCGB1A1. In contrast, CS decreased wound repair and vimentin, NOTCH1/JAGGED1/HES1, MMP9, TP63, SCGB1A1, whereas it activated the initial steps of the EMT (decrease in E-cadherin and increases in SNAIL1/SNAIL2/ZEB1). Using combined exposures, we observed that CS counteracted the effects of TGF-beta1. Furthermore, Notch signaling inhibition decreased wound repair. These data suggest that CS inhibits the physiological epithelial wound repair by interfering with the normal EMT process and the Notch-1 pathway.

Dietary Intake, Nutritional Adequacy, and Food Sources of Selected Antioxidant Minerals and Vitamins; and Their Relationship with Personal and Family Factors in Spanish Children Aged 1 to <10 Years: Results from the EsNuPI Study

Minerals and vitamins involved in the antioxidant defense system are essential for healthy growth and proper development during infancy. Milk and dairy products are of particular importance for improving the supply of these nutrients to children. Indeed, the present study aimed to evaluate the nutrient intake and food sources of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), retinol and carotenoids (sources of vitamin A), and vitamins C and E, and to analyze their relationships with personal and familiar factors in Spanish children from the EsNuPI study. One subpopulation representative of the Spanish population from 1 to <10 years old (n = 707) (reference group, REF) who reported consuming all types of milk over the last year, and another subpopulation of the same age who reported consuming fortified milk formulas (FMFs) (including follow-on formula, young child formula, growing up milk, toddler’s milk, and enriched and fortified milk) (n = 741) (fortified milk consumers, FMCs) completed two 24 h dietary recalls used to estimate their nutrient intakes and to compare them to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Dietary Reference Values (DRVs). The REF reported higher median intakes than FMCs for Se (61 µg/kg vs. 51 µg/kg) and carotenoids (1079 µg/day vs. 998 µg/day). Oppositely, FMCs reported higher intakes than REF for Zn (7.9 mg/day vs. 6.9 mg/day), vitamin A (636 µg/day vs. 481 µg/day), vitamin E (8.9 mg/day vs. 4.5 mg/day), vitamin C (113 mg/day vs. 71 mg/day), and retinol (376 µg/day vs. 233 µg/day). In the REF group, more than 50% of the children met the EFSA recommendations for Zn (79.6%), Se (87.1%), vitamin A (71.3%), and vitamin C (96.7%), respectively. On the other hand, 92.2% were below the EFSA recommendations for vitamin E. In the FMC group, more than 50% of the children met the EFSA recommendations for Zn (55.2%), Se (90.8%), vitamin A (75.7%), vitamin E (66.7%), and vitamin C (100%). We found statistically significant differences between subpopulations for all cases except for Se. In both subpopulations, the main sources of all antioxidant nutrients were milk and dairy products. For carotenoids, the main sources were vegetables and fruits followed by milk and dairy products. A high percentage of children had vitamins A and E intakes below the recommendations, information of great importance to stakeholders. More studies using intakes and biomarkers are needed, however, to determine an association with diverse factors of oxidative damage.

Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplementation on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

In recent years, the pleiotropic roles of antioxidants have drawn extensive attention in various diseases. Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant, and it has been used to treat patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to demonstrate the impact of vitamin C supplementation in patients with COPD.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), SinoMed, Wanfang, and China Science and Technology Journal Database (cqvip.com) for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from their respective inception to May 18^th, 2021, by using the searching terms of COPD, vitamin C, and RCTs. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of vitamin C on lung function, antioxidant levels, and nutritional conditions in COPD patients by using Review Manager (Version 5.4).

Results

Ten RCTs including 487 participants were eligible for our study. Meta-analysis results showed that vitamin C supplementation (≥400 mg/day) can significantly improve the forced expiratory volume in one second as a percentage (FEV1%) in COPD (SMD:1.08, 95% CI:0.03, 2.12, P=0.04). Moreover, vitamin C supplementation significantly improved the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) (WMD:0.66, 95% CI: 0.26, 1.06, P=0.001), vitamin C level in serum (SMD:0.63, 95% CI: 0.02, 1.24, P=0.04) and glutathione (GSH) level in serum (SMD:2.47, 95% CI: 1.06, 3.89, P=0.0006). While no statistically significant difference was observed in body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass index (FFMI), vitamin E level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) level in serum.

Conclusion

Vitamin C supplementation could increase the levels of antioxidation in serum (vitamin C and GSH) and improve lung function (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC), especially in patients treated with vitamin C supplementation greater than 400 mg/day. However, further prospective studies are needed to explore the role of vitamin C in improving nutritional status.

The Impact of Tobacco Cigarettes, Vaping Products and Tobacco Heating Products on Oxidative Stress

Cells constantly produce oxidizing species because of their metabolic activity, which is counteracted by the continuous production of antioxidant species to maintain the homeostasis of the redox balance. A deviation from the metabolic steady state leads to a condition of oxidative stress. The source of oxidative species can be endogenous or exogenous. A major exogenous source of these species is tobacco smoking. Oxidative damage can be induced in cells by chemical species contained in smoke through the generation of pro-inflammatory compounds and the modulation of intracellular pro-inflammatory pathways, resulting in a pathological condition. Cessation of smoking reduces the morbidity and mortality associated with cigarette use. Next-generation products (NGPs), as alternatives to combustible cigarettes, such as electronic cigarettes (e-cig) and tobacco heating products (THPs), have been proposed as a harm reduction strategy to reduce the deleterious impacts of cigarette smoking. In this review, we examine the impact of tobacco smoke and MRPs on oxidative stress in different pathologies, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and tumors. The impact of tobacco cigarette smoke on oxidative stress signaling in human health is well established, whereas the safety profile of MRPs seems to be higher than tobacco cigarettes, but further, well-conceived, studies are needed to better understand the oxidative effects of these products with long-term exposure.

Development of a scoring system with multidimensional markers for fibrosing interstitial lung disease

Fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) can cause high mortality and sensitive evaluation of fibrosing ILD could be critical. The aim of this study is to develop a scoring system to predict prognosis of fibrosing ILD. 339 patients with fibrosing ILD were enrolled as a derivation cohort. Cox multiple regression analysis indicated that smoking history (HR  =  3.826, p  =  0.001), age(HR  =  1.043, p  =  0.015), CEA(HR  =  1.059, p  =  0.049),CYFRA21-1(HR  =  1.177, p  =  0.004) and DLCO% predicted (HR  =  0.979, p  =  0.032) were independent prognostic factors for fibrosing ILD. The clinical scoring system for fibrosing ILD was established based on the clinical variables (age [A], CEA and CYFRA21-1 [C], DLCO% predicted [D], and smoking history [S]; ACDS). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the scoring system for predicting prognosis of fibrosing ILD was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.87–0.94, p < 0.001). The cutoff value was 2.5 with their corresponding specificity (90.7%) and sensitivity (78.8%). To validate the value of ACDS score levels to predict the survival of patients with fibrosing ILD, 98 additional fibrosing ILD patients were included as a validation cohort. The log-rank test showed a significant difference in survival between the two groups(ACDS score < 2.5 and ACDS score ≥ 2.5) in validation cohort. The independent risk factors for mortality in patients with fibrosing ILD are higher CEA, higher CYFRA21-1, smoking history, lower DLCO%predicted at baseline and older age. ACDS is a simple and feasible clinical model for predicting survival of fibrosing ILD.

Supercritical Antisolvent Technique for the Production of Breathable Naringin Powder

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds largely present in fruits and vegetables possessing antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. Their use in clinical practice is very poor due to their low bioavailability, susceptibility to oxidation and degradation. Moreover, their slight solubility in biological fluids and a consequent low dissolution rate leads to an irregular absorption from solid dosage forms, even though, anti-inflammatory formulations could be used as support for several disease treatment, i.e. the COVID-19 syndrome. To improve flavonoid bioavailability particle size of the powder can be reduced to make it breathable and to promote the absorption in the lung tissues. Supercritical fluid based antisolvent technique has been used to produce naringin particles, with size, shape and density as well as free flowing properties able to fit inhalation needs. The dried particles are produced with the removal of the solvent at lower temperatures compared to the most used traditional micronization processes, such as spray drying. The best breathable fraction for naringin particles is obtained for particles with a d₅₀~7 µm manufactured at 35 °C-150 bar and at 60 °C-130 bar, corresponding to 32.6% and 36.7% respectively. The powder is produced using a high CO₂ molar fraction (0.99) that assure a better removal of the solvent. NuLi-1 cell line of immortalised bronchial epithelial cells adopted to evaluate powder cytotoxicity indicated after 24 h absence of toxicity at concentration of 25 µM.

Effects of TLR9/NF-κB on oxidative stress and inflammation in IPEC-J2 cells

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is one of the most important factors affecting large-scale breeding, especially the performance of pigs. Oxidative stress plays a role by affecting various genes in pigs, which can cause serious body damage, functional degradation and reduce production performance.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Toll like receptor 9 (TLR9) pathway on IPEC-J2 cells under oxidative stress and to provide reference for the growth development of Dapulian pigs.

METHODS

In this study, Diquat was used as a source of oxidative stress to study the effects on Dapulian pigs by detecting relevant indicators. Then the IPEC-J2 cells were selected to verify the TLR9 signaling pathway in oxidative stress.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, superoxide dismutase (SOD) in experimental group decreased significantly, malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly increased, accompanied by inflammatory reaction, and inflammatory factors were significantly increased in the experimental group. Oxidative stress model was constructed by H2O2 incubating IPEC-J2 cells. The interference and overexpression vectors of TLR9 and myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) were constructed to detect the activity of antioxidant enzymes and related proteins. The results showed that overexpression of TLR9 enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes, decreased the secretion of inflammatory factors, and decreased the activity of MDA，reactive oxygen species (ROS); the results were opposite after TLR9 interference. This study also showed that H₂O₂ can activate the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and promote the translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus. After co-transfection with TLR9 and MyD88, the results showed that TLR9 regulated the expression of NF-κB through MyD88.

CONCLUSION

The study showed that TLR9 pathway had a significant positive effect on antioxidant.

Tandem Mass Tagging Based Identification of Proteome Signatures for Reductive Stress Cardiomyopathy

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a redox sensor, is vital for cellular redox homeostasis. We reported that transgenic mice expressing constitutively active Nrf2 (CaNrf2-TG) exhibit reductive stress (RS). In this study, we identified novel protein signature for RS-induced cardiomyopathy using Tandem Mass Tag (TMT) proteomic analysis in heart tissues of TG (CaNrf2-TG) mice at 6–7 months of age. A total of 1,105 proteins were extracted from 22,544 spectra. About 560 proteins were differentially expressed in TG vs. NTg hearts, indicating a global impact of RS on the myocardial proteome. Over 32 proteins were significantly altered in response to RS -20 were upregulated and 12 were downregulated in the hearts of TG vs. NTg mice, suggesting that these proteins could be putative signatures of RS. Scaffold analysis revealed a clear distinction between TG vs. NTg hearts. The majority of the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) that were significantly altered in RS mice were found to be involved in stress related pathways such as antioxidants, NADPH, protein quality control, etc. Interestingly, proteins that were involved in mitochondrial respiration, lipophagy and cardiac rhythm were dramatically decreased in TG hearts. Of note, we identified the glutathione family of proteins as the significantly changed subset of the proteome in TG heart. Surprisingly, our comparative analysis of NGS based transcriptome and TMT-proteome indicated that ~50% of the altered proteins in TG myocardium was found to be negatively correlated with their transcript levels. In association with the altered proteome the TG mice displayed pathological cardiac remodeling.

Effects of particulate matter (PM2.5) on life history traits, oxidative stress, and defensome system in the marine copepod Tigriopus japonicus

Particulate matter (PM_2.5) generated in large cities creates new problems in marine ecosystems and may adversely affect its inhabitants. However, the mechanisms underlying the same remain unclear; hence, we investigated the effects of PM_2.5 on life history traits (e.g., mortality, development, and fecundity), cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, antioxidant enzyme (e.g., glutathione peroxidase [GPx], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and catalase [CAT]) activities, and the transcript levels of detoxification-related genes (cytochrome P450s [CYPs]) and antioxidant (glutathione S-transferases [GSTs]) in the copepod Tigriopus japonicus. Among the life history traits, developmental time was the only trait to significantly deviate (P < 0.05) in response to PM_2.5 (compared to that in the controls). Significant changes in ROS levels and antioxidant enzymatic activities (P < 0.05) in response to PM_2.5, suggested that PM_2.5 can induce oxidative stress, leading to adverse effects on the T. japonicus life history. In addition, PM_2.5 induced a differential regulation of various CYP and GST genes, particularly CYP307E1, GST-kappa, and GST-sigma were significantly upregulated (P < 0.05), suggesting that these genes likely play crucial roles in detoxification mechanisms and could be useful as reliable biomarkers for PM_2.5 toxicity. Overall, the results of this study provide new insights into the potential toxicity of PM_2.5.

Naringenin Improves Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma in Rats through Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Asthma is a chronic disease with eosinophilic inflammation and oxidative damages leading to airway obstruction. Naringenin is a phytochemical possessing strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities against chronic destructive conditions. The current study is devoted to evaluating naringenin's effects on the attenuation of inflammation and oxidative stress in lung tissue in a rat model of ovalbumin-induced asthma. Male Wistar rats were allocated to five groups of six: normal control (NC, receiving 1 ml/day of normal saline, orally), asthmatic (AS, receiving ovalbumin (1 mg/mL), and alum (1 mg/mL in saline) on days 0 and 14. Then, on days 21, 22, and 23, they were sensitized with the inhalation of ovalbumin), AS treated with dexamethasone (AS, 1 mg/kg/day, orally) [AS + D1], AS treated with naringenin (20 mg/kg/day, orally) [AS + N20], and AS treated with naringenin (40 mg/kg/day, orally) [AS + N40]. All the groups received associated drugs/agents for 28 days. Finally, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue samples were taken off from the animals. The eosinophil count in BALF and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), interleukin-13 and -4 (IL-13 and IL-4) levels were measured. Besides, the expression of urocortin (UCN) and surfactant protein-D (SP-D) were evaluated in the lung tissue using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting methods, respectively. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were utilized to conduct histopathological analysis. Naringenin treatment significantly reduced MDA, remarkably increased GSH, and meaningfully reduced IL-4 and IL-13 levels in lung tissue. The count of eosinophils in the BALF of AS + N20 and AS + N40 was significantly reduced in comparison with the AS group. The UCN and SP-D protein levels were significantly decreased in the AS + N20 and AS + N40 groups compared to the AS group, using the IHC and western blot methods, respectively. Histopathological analysis data also confirm the results. Naringenin improves the symptoms of allergic asthma through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

An Adverse Outcome Pathway for Decreased Lung Function Focusing on Mechanisms of Impaired Mucociliary Clearance Following Inhalation Exposure

Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) help to organize available mechanistic information related to an adverse outcome into key events (KEs) spanning all organizational levels of a biological system(s). AOPs, therefore, aid in the biological understanding of a particular pathogenesis and also help with linking exposures to eventual toxic effects. In the regulatory context, knowledge of disease mechanisms can help design testing strategies using in vitro methods that can measure or predict KEs relevant to the biological effect of interest. The AOP described here evaluates the major processes known to be involved in regulating efficient mucociliary clearance (MCC) following exposures causing oxidative stress. MCC is a key aspect of the innate immune defense against airborne pathogens and inhaled chemicals and is governed by the concerted action of its functional components, the cilia and airway surface liquid (ASL). The AOP network described here consists of sequences of KEs that culminate in the modulation of ciliary beat frequency and ASL height as well as mucus viscosity and hence, impairment of MCC, which in turn leads to decreased lung function.

Association of GSTM1 and GSTT1 Null Genotypes with Toluene Diisocyanate-Induced Asthma

Background. Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) causes occupational asthma by generating oxidative stress, leading to tissue injury and inflammation. Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are detoxifying enzymes that eliminate oxidative stress. We examined whether the genotypes of the GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes are associated with TDI-induced occupational asthma (TDI-OA). Methods. The study population consisted of 26 asthmatics with a positive response to the TDI challenge (TDI-PA) and 27 asthmatics with negative responses (TDI-NA). GSTM1 and GSTT1 null and wild-type genotypes were determined using multiplex PCR. The plasma GSTM1 and GSTT1 protein concentrations were determined using ELISA. Results. The GSTM1 null genotype was more frequent in the TDI-PA than in the TDI-NA (77.8 vs. 50.0%, OR = 3.5, $p=0.03$ ), while the frequency of the GSTT1 null genotype tended to be higher in the TDI-PA than in the TDI-NA (59.3 vs. 42.3%, OR = 1.98, $p=0.21$ ). When analyzed together, the GSTM1/GSTT1 null genotype was more frequent in the TDI-PA than in the TDI-NA (48.2 vs. 15.3%, OR = 6.5, $p=0.04$ ). The decline in the FEV in 1 s after TDI challenge was higher with the GSTM1/GSTT1 null than the GSTM1 wild-type/GSTT1 null genotypes (24.29% vs. 7.47%, $p=0.02$ ). The plasma GSTM1 level was lower with the GSTM1 null than with the GSTM1 wild-type genotypes both before (13.7 vs. 16.6 ng/mg, $p=0.04$ ) and after (12.9 vs. 17.1 ng/mg, $p=0.007$ ) the TDI challenge, while the GSTT1 level was not changed with either the GSTT1 null or wild-type genotype. Conclusions. The GSTM1 null genotype, but not GSTT1 alone, may confer susceptibility to TDI-OA. However, the genetic effect of the GSTM1 null genotype may be enhanced synergistically by the GSTT1 null genotype. The genetic effect of GSTM1 was validated in the plasma as the GSTM1 protein level. Therefore, the GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes may be useful diagnostic markers for TDI-OA.

Involvement of FoxO1, Sp1, and Nrf2 in Upregulation of Negative Regulator of ROS by 15d-PGJ2 Attenuates H2O2-Induced IL-6 Expression in Rat Brain Astrocytes

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by NADPH oxidase (Nox) resulted in inflammation. The negative regulator of ROS (NRROS) dampens ROS generation during inflammatory responses. 15-Deoxy-∆12,14-prostaglandin J₂ (15d-PGJ₂) exhibits neuroprotective effects on central nervous system (CNS). However, whether 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression was unknown in rat brain astrocytes (RBA-1). NRROS expression was determined by Western blot, RT/real-time PCR, and promoter activity assays. The signaling components were investigated using pharmacological inhibitors or specific siRNAs. The interaction between transcription factors and the NRROS promoter was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Upregulation of NRROS on the hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-mediated ROS generation and interleukin 6 (IL-6) secretion was measured. 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression was mediated through PI3K/Akt-dependent activation of Sp1 and FoxO1 and established the essential promoter regions. We demonstrated that 15d-PGJ₂ activated PI3K/Akt and following by cooperation between phosphorylated nuclear FoxO1 and Sp1 to initiate the NRROS transcription. In addition, Nrf2 played a key role in NRROS expression induced by 15d-PGJ₂ which was mediated through its phosphorylation. Finally, the NRROS stable clones attenuated the H₂O₂-induced ROS generation and expression of IL-6 through suppressing the Nox-2 activity. These results suggested that 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression is mediated through a PI3K/Akt-dependent FoxO1 and Sp1 phosphorylation, and Nrf2 cascade, which suppresses ROS generation through attenuating the p47^phox phosphorylation and gp91^phox formation and IL-6 expression in RBA-1 cells. These results confirmed the mechanisms underlying 15d-PGJ₂-induced NRROS expression which might be a potential strategy for prevention and management of brain inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

GSTP1 and GSTM3 Variant Alleles Affect Susceptibility and Severity of COVID-19

Based on the premise that oxidative stress plays an important role in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, we speculated that variations in the antioxidant activities of different members of the glutathione S-transferase family of enzymes might modulate individual susceptibility towards development of clinical manifestations in COVID-19. The distribution of polymorphisms in cytosolic glutathione S-transferases GSTA1, GSTM1, GSTM3, GSTP1 (rs1695 and rs1138272), and GSTT1 were assessed in 207 COVID-19 patients and 252 matched healthy individuals, emphasizing their individual and cumulative effect in disease development and severity. GST polymorphisms were determined by appropriate PCR methods. Among six GST polymorphisms analyzed in this study, GSTP1 rs1695 and GSTM3 were found to be associated with COVID-19. Indeed, the data obtained showed that individuals carrying variant GSTP1-Val allele exhibit lower odds of COVID-19 development (p = 0.002), contrary to carriers of variant GSTM3-CC genotype which have higher odds for COVID-19 (p = 0.024). Moreover, combined GSTP1 (rs1138272 and rs1695) and GSTM3 genotype exhibited cumulative risk regarding both COVID-19 occurrence and COVID-19 severity (p = 0.001 and p = 0.025, respectively). Further studies are needed to clarify the exact roles of specific glutathione S-transferases once the SARS-CoV-2 infection is initiated in the host cell.

Nutraceuticals and mitochondrial oxidative stress: bridging the gap in the management of bronchial asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily characterized by inflammation and reversible bronchoconstriction. It is currently one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Oxidative stress further complicates the pathology of the disease. The current treatment strategies for asthma mainly involve the use of anti-inflammatory agents and bronchodilators. However, long-term usage of such medications is associated with severe adverse effects and complications. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop newer, novel, and safe treatment modalities for the management of asthma. This has therefore prompted further investigations and detailed research to identify and develop novel therapeutic interventions from potent untapped resources. This review focuses on the significance of oxidative stressors that are primarily derived from both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial sources in initiating the clinical features of asthma. The review also discusses the biological scavenging system of the body and factors that may lead to its malfunction which could result in altered states. Furthermore, the review provides a detailed insight into the therapeutic role of nutraceuticals as an effective strategy to attenuate the deleterious effects of oxidative stress and may be used in the mitigation of the cardinal features of bronchial asthma.

Aplicação de antioxidantes naturais na reprodução animal

Resumo Antioxidantes são substâncias naturais ou sintéticas que facilitam o retardo da oxidação por um ou mais mecanismos, como sequestrar radicais livres, inibir a peroxidação lipídica e complexar com metais, inibindo a destruição tecidual via oxidação. Antioxidantes são comumente usados na alimentação animal e na indústria alimentícia para prevenir a oxidação de produtos de origem animal. Além disso, os oxidantes naturais estão sendo cada vez mais aplicados na reprodução animal, principalmente na preservação do sêmen. Nesse contexto, este trabalho teve como objetivo revisar a aplicação de antioxidantes naturais na reprodução animal. Observamos que os antioxidantes naturais foram geralmente adquiridos comercialmente (80,4%) e utilizados principalmente no resfriamento/congelamento de sêmen (72%) com resultados promissores (90%) em Sus scrofa (javali), Capra aegagrus hircus (cabra), Gallus gallus domesticus (galo) e Ovis aries (carneiro). No entanto, mais estudos devem ser realizados para ajudar a regular a dosagem de antioxidantes naturais para sua aplicação.

Application of natural antioxidants in animal reproduction

Abstract Antioxidants are natural or synthetic substances that delay oxidation through one or more mechanisms, such as scavenging free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and complexing with metals, inhibiting tissue destruction via oxidation. Antioxidants are commonly used in animal feed and the food industry to prevent the oxidation of animal-origin products. Moreover, natural oxidants are used increasingly in animal reproduction, especially for semen preservation. In this context, this study aimed to review the applications of natural antioxidants in animal reproduction. We observed that the bulk of the natural antioxidants, approximately 80.4%, were commercially acquired and used mainly for semen cooling/freezing (72%) with promising results (90%) in Sus scrofa (boar), Capra aegagrus hircus (goat), Gallus gallus domesticus (rooster), and Ovis aries (ram). However, further studies are needed to help determine the appropriate dosage of natural antioxidants for applications.

Markers of Neuroinflammation in the Serum of Prepubertal Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

BACKGROUND

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are the manifestation of the damage caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), the extreme FASD manifestation, show both facial dysmorphology and mental retardation. Alcohol consumed during gestational age prejudices brain development by reducing, among others, the synthesis and release of neurotrophic factors and neuroinflammatory markers. Alcohol drinking also induces oxidative stress.

HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate the potential association between neurotrophins, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress in 12 prepubertal male and female FASD children diagnosed as FAS or partial FAS (pFAS).

METHODS

Accordingly, we analyzed, in the serum, the level of BDNF and NGF and the oxidative stress, as Free Oxygen Radicals Test (FORT) and Free Oxygen Radicals Defense (FORD). Moreover, serum levels of inflammatory mediators (IL-1α, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, MCP-1, TGF-β, and TNF-α) involved in neuroinflammatory and oxidative processes have been investigated.

RESULTS

We demonstrated low serum levels of NGF and BDNF in pre-pubertal FASD children with respect to healthy controls. These changes were associated with higher serum presence of TNF- α and IL-1α. Quite interestingly, an elevation in the FORD was also found despite normal FORT levels. Moreover, we found a potentiation of IL-1α, IL-2, IL-10, and IL-1α1 in the analyzed female compared to male children.

CONCLUSION

The present investigation shows an imbalance in the peripheral neuroimmune pathways that could be used in children as early biomarkers of the deficits observed in FASD.

Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress-A Causative Factor and Therapeutic Target in Many Diseases

The excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and impairment of defensive antioxidant systems leads to a condition known as oxidative stress. The main source of free radicals responsible for oxidative stress is mitochondrial respiration. The deleterious effects of ROS on cellular biomolecules, including DNA, is a well-known phenomenon that can disrupt mitochondrial function and contribute to cellular damage and death, and the subsequent development of various disease processes. In this review, we summarize the most important findings that implicated mitochondrial oxidative stress in a wide variety of pathologies from Alzheimer disease (AD) to autoimmune type 1 diabetes. This review also discusses attempts to affect oxidative stress as a therapeutic avenue.

Melatonin antagonizes ozone-exacerbated asthma by inhibiting the TRPV1 channel and stabilizing the Nrf2 pathway

Over the past few years, ozone has been identified as a potential risk factor for exacerbating asthma. However, few attempts have been made to prevent the progression of ozone-exacerbated asthma. This study investigated the attenuating effects of melatonin on ozone-aggravated allergic asthma, and explored the changes to the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway associated with melatonin treatment. The levels of TRPV1 and calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) in lung tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The Nrf2 signaling involved proteins and mRNA were evaluated by western blot and RT-qPCR. The change of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and T helper (Th) 2 and Th17 cytokines in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was determined by ELISA. Recruitment of inflammatory cells in BALF, histopathological changes, and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) were also determined in lung tissues. Our results indicated that melatonin treatment significantly reduced oxidative stress, as indicated by levels of glutathione (GSH), malonaldehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG). Moreover, ozone-exacerbated asthma symptoms, such as inflammatory cell infiltration, levels of serum immunoglobulin, Th2 and Th17 cytokines in BALF, obvious changes in lung histology, and AHR, were all ameliorated by melatonin treatment. Interestingly, melatonin not only markedly decreased the protein levels of TRPV1 and CGRP, but also enhanced the expression of Nrf2, quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Taken together, our results demonstrate that melatonin administration could antagonize ozone-exacerbated asthma by inhibiting the TRPV1 channel and stabilizing the Nrf2 pathway.

Carnosol attenuates bleomycin-induced lung damage via suppressing fibrosis, oxidative stress and inflammation in rats

AIMS

Bleomycin, an important toxic anti-cancer agent, induces pulmonary fibrosis. The significance of oxidative stress and inflammation in promoting of bleomycin-induced idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) has been reported. Thus, we evaluated the protective effects of carnosol as a robust natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent for bleomycin-related IPF in rats.

MAIN METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly assigned to five groups. Group 1 was administrated with saline (intratracheally) on day 7 and oral gavage of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, 0.05%) from day 1 to day 28. Group 2 received a single dose of bleomycin (intratracheally, 7.5 UI/kg) on day 7 and oral gavage of saline for 28 days. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were administrated with bleomycin (single dose) on day 7, along with oral administration of carnosol (at doses 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, respectively) from day 1 to day 28. The lungs were isolated to measure the histopathological and biochemical and inflammatory markers.

KEY FINDINGS

Carnosol treatment significantly reduced malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, protein carbonyl, tumor necrosis factor- α, interleukin-6 levels and myeloperoxidase activity in the lungs of rats exposed to bleomycin. Also, lung glutathione content, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities significantly increased in the carnosol/bleomycin-treated group than the bleomycin group. Lung index, hydroxyproline content, fibrosis and histopathological changes, also significantly decreased by carnosol therapy.

SIGNIFICANCE

Treatment with carnosol can modulate biochemical and histological alterations caused by bleomycin. Thus, it can be regarded as an appropriate therapeutic approach for IPF.

Tyrosol improves ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma in rat model through prevention of airway inflammation

Asthma is an inflammatory disease that affects many people around the world, especially persons at paediatric age group. The effectiveness of tyrosol, a natural phenolic compound, was examined in the asthma model induced by ovalbumin (OVA). For this purpose, four groups, each consisting of eight rats, were arranged. For 21 days, physiological saline solution was treated to the control group and OVA was treated to the groups of OVA, OVA + dexamethasone (Dexa) and OVA + tyrosol groups, intraperitoneally and through inhalation. Additionally, 0.25 mg/kg Dexa was treated to the OVA + Dexa group and 20 mg/kg tyrosol to the OVA + tyrosol group by oral gavage. Serum, blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues of the rats were examined. It was observed that MDA level decreased, GSH level and GPx activity increased, and there was no change in CAT activity in lung tissues of the tyrosol treatment groups. It was also observed that NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IFN-γ and IgE levels decreased compared to the OVA group in lung tissue and serum samples except for serum NF-κB and IL-4. However, no effect on IL-1 β level was observed. In addition, it was determined that tyrosol treatment increased the IL-10 level on both tissue samples. The results of the histopathological investigation of lung tissue showed that tyrosol significantly ameliorated OVA-induced histopathological lesions. Additionally, PAS staining showed that mucus hypersecretion was significantly reduced with the use of tyrosol. In addition, it was determined that the number of eosinophils decreased significantly in blood and BALF samples. The obtained results showed that tyrosol possessed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features on OVA-induced rats and preserved tissue architecture.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in non-smokers: role of oxidative stress

Background

A striking feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is its inability to resolve after cigarette smoke exposure has ended, which has contributed to the possibility that the disease could also be driven by other endogenous causes, such as autoimmunity or chronic infection. The objective of this research was to examine oxidative stress in non-smoker and ex-smoker COPD subjects and its relationship to pulmonary functions and sputum cytology.

Results

This case control-study enrolled 40 patients with COPD who are non-smokers or ex-smokers and 30 healthy controls of non-smokers or ex-smokers; oxidative stress markers, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were compared in the two groups. All oxidative stress markers are elevated in the COPD group versus the control group. MDA has a negative correlation with FEV1and dyspnea grade.

Conclusion

Blood concentrations of SOD and MDA are consistently higher in patients with non-smokers or ex-smoker COPD when compared to non-smokers or ex-smoker healthy controls.

Redox Regulation in Aging Lungs and Therapeutic Implications of Antioxidants in COPD

Mammals, including humans, are aerobic organisms with a mature respiratory system to intake oxygen as a vital source of cellular energy. Despite the essentiality of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as byproducts of aerobic metabolism for cellular homeostasis, excessive ROS contribute to the development of a wide spectrum of pathological conditions, including chronic lung diseases such as COPD. In particular, epithelial cells in the respiratory system are directly exposed to and challenged by exogenous ROS, including ozone and cigarette smoke, which results in detrimental oxidative stress in the lungs. In addition, the dysfunction of redox regulation due to cellular aging accelerates COPD pathogenesis, such as inflammation, protease anti-protease imbalance and cellular apoptosis. Therefore, various drugs targeting oxidative stress-associated pathways, such as thioredoxin and N-acetylcysteine, have been developed for COPD treatment to precisely regulate the redox system. In this review, we present the current understanding of the roles of redox regulation in the respiratory system and COPD pathogenesis. We address the insufficiency of current COPD treatment as antioxidants and discuss future directions in COPD therapeutics targeting oxidative stress while avoiding side effects such as tumorigenesis.

Respiratory Effects of Exposure to Aerosol From the Candidate Modified-Risk Tobacco Product THS 2.2 in an 18-Month Systems Toxicology Study With A/J Mice

Smoking cessation is the most effective measure for reducing the risk of smoking-related diseases. However, switching to less harmful products (modified-risk tobacco products [MRTP]) can be an alternative to help reduce the risk for adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke. In an 18-month chronic carcinogenicity/toxicity study in A/J mice (OECD Test Guideline 453), we assessed the aerosol of Tobacco Heating System 2.2 (THS 2.2), a candidate MRTP based on the heat-not-burn principle, compared with 3R4F cigarette smoke (CS). To capture toxicity- and disease-relevant mechanisms, we complemented standard toxicology endpoints with in-depth systems toxicology analyses. In this part of our publication series, we report on integrative assessment of the apical and molecular exposure effects on the respiratory tract (nose, larynx, and lungs). Across the respiratory tract, we found changes in inflammatory response following 3R4F CS exposure (eg, antimicrobial peptide response in the nose), with both shared and distinct oxidative and xenobiotic responses. Compared with 3R4F CS, THS 2.2 aerosol exerted far fewer effects on respiratory tract histology, including adaptive tissue changes in nasal and laryngeal epithelium and inflammation and emphysematous changes in the lungs. Integrative analysis of molecular changes confirmed the substantially lower impact of THS 2.2 aerosol than 3R4F CS on toxicologically and disease-relevant molecular processes such as inflammation, oxidative stress responses, and xenobiotic metabolism. In summary, this work exemplifies how apical and molecular endpoints can be combined effectively for toxicology assessment and further supports findings on the reduced respiratory health risks of THS 2.2 aerosol.