Transciptomic study of mucosal immune, antioxidant and growth related genes and non-specific immune response of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fed dietary Ferula (Ferula assafoetida)

Unveiling the role of Alcea rosea in modulating growth, immunity, antioxidant defenses, and gene expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Novel and natural alternative feed ingredients are essential for sustainable aquaculture sector. For a period of 60 days, this study examined the effects of incorporating Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) powder into the diet on gene expressions, growth parameters, serum biochemical and innate immune parameters, as well as antioxidant capacity in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Fish, with an initial weight of (302.66 ± 3.75) mg, were seperated into four groups. Each group was fed a diet containing varying percentages of Hollyhock: 0% (AR0), 0.5% (AR05), 1% (AR1), and 2% (AR2). Growth performance was significantly enhanced in the AR2 group, with no significant differences observed in the other groups. The supplementation of Hollyhock led to significant alterations in the serum biochemical parameters, specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), resulting in notably lower levels compared to the AR0 group. The Hollyhock-supplemented diet led to a significant increase in both total protein and total immunoglobulin levels, as compared to the AR0 group. There were no changes observed in CAT activity related to antioxidant defense, while exclusive to the AR05 group, a substantial elevation was observed in SOD activity compared to the AR0 group. The results shown that the expression levels of growth-related genes, such as GH and IGF-1, showed an increase in all diets supplemented with Hollyhock. Growth exhibited a statistically significant difference in group AR2, while no significant difference was observed in the other groups. The Heat Shock Protein 70 gene (HSP70) was downregulated specifically in the AR1 group. Immune-related genes, including LYZ, IL-1β, and TNF, were significantly upregulated with Hollyhock supplementation. Both LYZ and TNF showed the highest expression in the AR1 and AR2 groups, while IL-1β peaked in the AR1 group. In terms of antioxidant-related genes, Antioxidant-related genes, SOD and CAT, were significantly upregulated in Hollyhock-treated groups. SOD expression peaked in the AR1 group, and CAT was most upregulated in the AR1 and AR2 groups. Overall, these results suggest that supplementation with 1-2% Hollyhock in the diet of zebrafish positively influenced growth, immunity, antioxidant defense, and serum biochemical parameters, making it a promising feed additive for enhancing aquaculture productivity and fish health.

Skin mucosal immune parameters and expression of the immune-relevant genes in Danio rerio treated by white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)

This study evaluates using different levels of the white button mushroom powder (WBMP) on some mucosal innate immune parameters (lysozyme, protease, esterase, alkaline phosphatase activities, and total immunoglobulin levels), and the relative expression of some principal immune-relevant genes (lysozyme, TNF-α, and IL-1β) in the zebra danio intestine. Zebrafish specimens (1.75 ± 0.25 g) were divided into experimental units based on the additives to a diet including 5, 10, and 20 g of WBMP per kilogram of food weight, alone or in conjunction with the antibiotic (10 mg/kg BW), and the AGRIMOS (1 g/kg food weight). Following the 11-day experimental duration, the skin mucus and intestine were sampled. To assess the immune gene expression, the real-time PCR detection system was conducted according to the ΔΔCt method using the IQ5 software (Bio-RAD). Results showed that all groups had a significant increase in terms of mucosal lysozyme activity compared to the control group. Examination of total immunoglobulin, protease, esterase, and ALP activity in fish under experimental treatment showed that there was no significant difference between the trial groups and the control groups. The most expression of the lysozyme gene was related to the group that was separately taken the lower concentration (5 g per kg of FW) of WBMP. In conclusion, the amount of 1% mushroom powder in the diet can improve its immune function. Our recommendation is that given the positive effects that mushroom powder added on the diet alone, avoid taking antibiotics for this purpose.

The molecular basis of the immunomodulatory effects of natural products: A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Natural products (NPs) have long been recognized for their potential to modulate the immune system, offering a natural and holistic approach to enhancing immune function. In recent years, the immunomodulation effects of various natural products have attained significant attention.

PURPOSE

This article provides an overview of the role of natural products in immunomodulation, exploring their mechanisms of action, common types of NPs with immunomodulation properties, clinical applications, as well as considerations for their safety and efficacy.

METHODS

Extensive research has been conducted to compile important discoveries on the immunomodulatory properties of NPs through thorough searches of multiple databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus up until January 2024.

RESULTS

By decreasing the levels of Th2 cytokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines, the results suggested that NPs have the ability to modulate the immune system. Therefore, NPs alleviate inflammation in various disorders such as asthma and cancer. Furthermore, the observed increase in CD4 cells and IFN-ɣ/IL4 levels, along with an increased IFN-c/IL4 ratio, indicates a stimulatory effect of NPs on Th1 activity in various inflammatory conditions. Therefore, NPs regulate the immune system by inhibiting T-cells and decreasing the growth of young B-cell lymphoma cells.

CONCLUSION

Reviewing studies indicated that NPs have the potential to serve as immunomodulatory candidates for treating disorders characterized by immune dysregulation. However, additional experimental and clinical studies are necessary before these agents can be implemented in clinical settings.

Effects of dietary powdered Ficus deltoidea on the growth and health performance of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus production

Intensive aquaculture causes a decline in the health status of fish, resulting in an increased disease incidence. To counteract this, feed additives have been utilized to improve the growth performance and health of aquaculture species. This work specifically investigates the impact of powdered Ficus deltoidea (FD) on various parameters related to growth, blood parameters, liver and intestine morphology, body proximate analysis, digestive enzymes, antioxidant capacity, and disease resistance to motile Aeromonad Septicemia (MAS) caused by Aeromonas hydrophila infection in African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Four formulated diets were prepared: T1 (0% FD), T2 (0.5% FD), T3 (0.75% FD), and T4 (1% FD). After 8 weeks, the African catfish's growth performance fed with the T2 diet exhibited a substantial improvement (p < 0.05), along with a remarkably lower (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) when compared to the other treatment groups. Blood parameter analysis revealed notably higher (p < 0.05) levels of white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytosis (LYM), hemoglobin (HGB), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLOB), as well as total protein (TP) in the T2 diet group. While all treatment groups displayed normal intestinal morphology, liver deterioration was observed in groups supplemented with higher FD. The T2 diet group recorded the highest villus length, width, and crypt depth. Protease and lipase levels were also notably improved in the T2 diet group compared to other treatment groups. Additionally, catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were remarkably elevated in all FD diet groups than in the control group. The expression of immune-related genes, including transforming growth factor beta 1, heat shock protein 90, nuclear factor kappa-B gene, and lysozyme G, was upregulated in all treatments. Overall, the results of this study indicate that incorporating dietary FD at 0.5% concentration in the diet of African catfish may enhance their productivity in intensive farming.

Cyrtocarpa edulis fruit and its immunostimulant effect on Almaco Jack Seriola rivoliana: in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo studies

The present study investigates for the first time chemical, proximate analyses and immunostimulant effect of Cyrtocarpa edulis fruit (CeF). Three design experiments were carried out to evaluate immunostimulant effect of C. edulis fruit: in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo studies in juveniles Almaco jack Seriola rivoliana. In general, nutraceutical studies performed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in CeF revealed a major quantity of the carbohydrate groups and phytosterols such as β-sitosterol. Their phytochemical and antioxidant values exposed a significant content of total phenols, flavonoids, and tannins, showing an antioxidant capacity against hydroxyl and superoxide radical. The in vitro results confirm that CeF is edible and enhanced the innate immune response in head-kidney leukocytes after 24 h of immunostimulation. The in vivo results showed that myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide production, as well as antioxidant enzymes were enhanced in skin mucus of those fish fed with CeF. Interestingly in the intestine, IL-β, TNF-α, MARCO and Piscidin gene expression were up-regulated in fish fed with C. edulis after 4 weeks. Finally, ex vivo experiments showed an important enhancement on cellular parameters (phagocytosis, respiratory burst, myeloperoxidase, and nitric oxide production) in head-kidney leukocytes of fish fed CeF and intraperitoneally infected with A. hydrophila. The results demonstrate that C. edulis fruit (0.5%) represents an available phytochemical and antioxidant rich alternative with great potential as fish immunostimulant additive.

Sustainable Ornamental Fish Aquaculture: The Implication of Microbial Feed Additives

Ornamental fish trade represents an important economic sector with an export turnover that reached approximately 5 billion US dollars in 2018. Despite its high economic importance, this sector does not receive much attention. Ornamental fish husbandry still faces many challenges and losses caused by transport stress and handling and outbreak of diseases are still to be improved. This review will provide insights on ornamental fish diseases along with the measures used to avoid or limit their onset. Moreover, this review will discuss the role of different natural and sustainable microbial feed additives, particularly probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on the health, reduction in transport stress, growth, and reproduction of farmed ornamental fish. Most importantly, this review aims to fill the informational gaps existing in advanced and sustainable practices in the ornamental fish production.

Dietary flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) oil supplementation affects growth, oxidative stress, immune response, and diseases resistance in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchusmykiss)

This paper describes the effects of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) oil (FSO) as a feed additive on growth performance, oxidative stress, immunity, and disease resistance in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Four-hundred-and-twenty rainbow trout individuals (mean weight: 25.66 ± 1.33 g) were fed with different doses of FSO (0.5, 1, and 1.5%) ad libitum two times a day for 9 weeks. At the end of the feeding, growth performance was evaluated and the fish were challenged with two different bacteria (Yersinia ruckeri and Aeromonas hydrophila). At the end of the 3rd, 6th, and 9th weeks, blood and tissue samples were collected from 9 fish per treatment to evaluate innate immune response, cytokine gene expression levels, antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation levels, and digestive enzyme activities. Determination of haematological parameters and histological examination was also carried out to evaluate the general health status of the fish. Results showed that the final weight and specific growth rate of fish supplemented with FSO increased significantly (p < 0.05). FSO-supplemented fish showed higher resistance to Y. ruckeri infection than the control group (p < 0.05). However, survival rates of all groups in A. hydrophila challenge test were similar (p > 0.05). Among the investigated innate immune response parameters, the potential killing activity of phagocytes, myeloperoxidase activity, and lysozyme activity increased in the FSO-supplemented groups (p < 0.05). Almost all cytokine gene expression levels in the experimental groups up-regulated especially after 9 weeks of feeding in the head kidney and intestine (p < 0.05). Similarly, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were found to be significantly higher in the FSO group than in the control (p < 0.05) whereas, the lipid peroxidation levels drastically declined as a result of the FSO supplementation (p < 0.05). These results suggest that FSO can improve growth, enhance immune response, and lower oxidative damage in rainbow trout when supplemented at the rates of 0.5-1.5% for 9 weeks.

Effects of Bougainvillea glabra leaf on growth, skin mucosal immune responses, and disease resistance in common carp Cyprinus carpio

This study evaluated the effects of Bougainvillea glabra (BG) leaf as a feed supplement on growth, skin mucosal immune parameters, serum oxidative stress, expression of immune-related genes, and susceptibility to pathogen infection in carp Cyprinus carpio. Diets containing four different BG concentrations (g kg^-1), i.e., 0 g (basal diet), 20 g (BG20), 30 g (BG30), 40 g (BG40), and 50 g (BG50), were fed to the carp (average weight: 14.03 ± 0.81 g) for 8 weeks. Skin mucosal immunological and serum antioxidant parameters were examined 8 weeks post-feeding. Growth performance was significantly higher in BG40. Among the examined skin mucosal immune parameters, lysozyme (33.79 ± 0.98 U mL^-1), protein (6.88 ± 0.37 mg mL^-1), immunoglobulin (IgM; 5.34 ± 0.37 unit-mg mL^-1), and protease activity (3.18 ± 0.36%) were significantly higher in BG40 than in the control; whereas, there was no significant effect on the alkaline phosphatase level. Among serum immune activity, activities of lysozyme, the alternative complement pathway, and IgM were significantly higher in BG40. Phagocytic, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were higher (P < 0.05) in BG30-BG50. Serum ALT, AST, and MDA levels were lower in BG40 than in the control (P < 0.05). Intestinal enzymatic activities were enhanced in BG40 and BG50 (P < 0.05), except for lipase in BG50. Gene expression analysis revealed that the mRNA expressions of antioxidant genes (SOD, GPx, and Nrf2), an anti-inflammatory gene (IL-10), and IκBα were significantly upregulated in BG40. Conversely, the pro-inflammatory gene IL-1β and the signaling molecule NF-κB p65 were downregulated in BG40 and BG50, respectively. BG supplementation had no significant effect on TNF-α, TLR22, or HSP70 mRNA expressions. Moreover, fish in BG40 exhibited the highest relative post-challenge survival (67.74%) against Aeromonas hydrophila infection. These results suggested that dietary supplementation with BG leaves at 40 g/kg can significantly improve the growth performance, immune responses, and disease resistance of C. carpio. BG leaves are a promising food additive for carp in aquaculture.

Evaluation of Garlic Juice Processing Waste Supplementation in Juvenile Black Rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) Diets on Growth Performance, Antioxidant and Digestive Enzyme Activity, Growth- and Antioxidant-Related Gene Expression, and Disease Resistance against Streptococcus iniae

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of various dietary levels of garlic juice processing waste (GJPW) on the growth, feed utilization, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activity, growth- and antioxidant-related gene expression, and resistance to Streptococcus iniae infection of juvenile black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii). A total of 450 juvenile rockfish were randomly distributed into 30 L rectangular tanks (30 fish per tank). Five experimental diets were prepared in triplicate. The fish were fed experimental diets supplemented with GJPW at concentrations of 0 (GJPW0, control), 2.5 (GJPW2.5), 5 (GJPW5), 7.5 (GJPW7.5), and 10 g kg^-1 (GJPW10) diet. All of the GJPW-supplemented treatments (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 g kg^-1) significantly enhanced weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed efficiency (FE), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and digestive enzyme activity (amylase, trypsin, and lipase). A decreasing trend was seen in plasma aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), alanine aminotransferase (AST), and glucose (GLU) content with increasing dietary levels of GJPW. In contrast, plasma lysozyme and antioxidant enzyme activities were significantly increased with increasing dietary GJPW levels. Furthermore, GJPW administration significantly upregulated the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the liver of rockfish. A challenge test with S. iniae showed significantly higher resistance in the GJPW-supplemented treatments than in the control. In short, dietary supplementation GJPW enhanced growth performance and antioxidant response in juvenile black rockfish, with suitable effects in fish fed with 2.5 g kg^-1 GJPW for 8 weeks.

A Comparison of the Beneficial Effects of Inorganic, Organic, and Elemental Nano-selenium on Nile Tilapia: Growth, Immunity, Oxidative Status, Gut Morphology, and Immune Gene Expression

This study investigates the effects of different sources of selenium (inorganic (SSE), organic (OSE), and elemental nano-selenium (NSE)) on the performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). In total, 204 Nile tilapia fingerlings were randomly divided into 4 equal groups fed 1 of 4 diets: a control (adding no selenium) and 3 diets as selenium sources (1 mg/kg diet), After a 65-day feeding trial, the growth performance parameters of Nile tilapia were significantly enhanced by dietary selenium supplementation (P < 0.05), with the highest values recorded in the OSE- and NSE-supplemented groups. The selenium-supplemented groups had the highest packed-cell volume, hemoglobin, and red blood cell levels, with the highest values seen in the NSE-supplemented group (P < 0.05). Innate immune-related enzymes and immunoglobulin levels were significantly enhanced with selenium supplementation (P < 0.05); the NSE group demonstrated the highest significant levels of these enzyme activities (P < 0.05). In all selenium-supplemented groups, malondialdehyde levels were significantly and equally reduced (P < 0.05) compared with levels in the control. Bactericidal activity was only enhanced in the NSE group (P < 0.05) compared with other treatments. The expression of TNF-α and IL-Iβ genes was significantly upregulated in selenium-supplemented groups, with the highest expression in the OSE and NSE groups (P < 0.05). These findings support the importance of incorporating selenium in the diet of Nile tilapia. Furthermore, elementary nano-selenium is more effective than inorganic or organic selenium supplementation at improving Nile tilapia growth performance and overall health.

Effects of white mustard (Sinapis alba) oil on growth performance, immune response, blood parameters, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activities in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchusmykiss)

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of white mustard (Sinapis alba) oil (WMO) on growth performance, immune responses, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activities in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). For this purpose, fish (initial weight: 25.77 ± 0.13 g) were divided into four experimental groups in triplicate and fed ad libitum twice a day with diets containing WMO at 0 (control), 0.5, 1, and 1.5% of diet for 9 weeks. Three fish from each tank (n:9 per treatment) were sampled on 21st, 42nd, and 63rd days for further analyses. At the end of the feeding period, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and Yersinia ruckeri in two separate experimental setups. Results showed that final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate were significantly increased in all experimental groups compared to the control. Feed conversion ratio was similar among treatments. Respiratory burst and potential killing activity decreased in all experimental groups compared to the control (P < 0.05). Lysozyme and myeloperoxidase activities were elevated in all experimental groups at the end of the experiment compared to the control (P < 0.05). Cytokine gene expressions in the head kidney and intestine were elevated in all experimental groups compared to that of the control in general (P < 0.05). Hematological responses of the experimental fish groups were similar to that of the control (P > 0.05). Pepsin and trypsin levels decreased in all experimental groups (P < 0.05). In terms of antioxidant enzyme activities, significant improvement in liver superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione s-transferase activities in all treatment groups were determined (P < 0.05). In addition, a significant decline in liver lipid peroxidation levels was recorded in all treated groups at all sampling times compared to the control (P < 0.05). At the end of this feeding trial, no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in survival against A. hydrophila among experimental groups compared to the control (P > 0.05). However, increased survival against Y. ruckeri was determined in experimental fish groups (P < 0.05). This study suggests that white mustard oil had a favorable effect on the overall health and growth of rainbow trout.

Phytogenic Substances: A Promising Approach Towards Sustainable Aquaculture Industry

The aquaculture industry has shown rapid growth over the last three decades, especially with improving the farming systems. However, the rapid expansion and intensification practices in the aquaculture sector have been marred by increased stress levels and disease outbreaks, and subsequently, high fish mortality. Excessive use of veterinary drugs and antibiotics in aquaculture poses a great threat to human and aquatic animals' health, as well as to the biosystem. Furthermore, exposure to various pollutants such as industrial effluents and agricultural pesticides may cause devastating toxicological aspects of fish and adversely affect their health and growth. Besides, with a growing world population, there is a growing interest in intensifying aquaculture production to meet the global demand for nutritional security needs. Uncontrolled intensification of aquaculture production makes aquatic animals both vulnerable to, and potential sources of a wide range of hazards include pathogen transmission, disease outbreak, immunosuppression, impaired growth performance, malnutrition, foodborne illness, and high mortality. Plant-derived compounds are generally recognized as safe for fish, humans, and the environment and possess great potential as functional ingredients to be applied in aquaculture for several purposes. Phytogenic additives comprise a wide variety of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds with multiple biological functions. The use of phytogenic compounds can open a promising approach towards enhancing the health status of aquatic animals. However, further in-vivo trials are necessary under favorable conditions with controlled amounts of identified bioactive compounds along with toxicity testing for fish safety towards a realistic evaluation of the tested substance efficacy.

The effects of dietary immunostimulants on the innate immune response of Indian major carp: A review

Immunostimulants, as feed additives, play an important role in maintaining fish health and enhancing their overall growth by providing resistance against diseases in cultured fish. At the initial stages of life of fish, innate immunity is the essential mechanism in their survival. Later, innate immunity has an instructive role in adapting acquired immune response and homeostasis through different receptor proteins. Several studies have been conducted to analyze the effect of dietary immunostimulants like algae, plant extracts, vitamins, herbs, probiotics, and prebiotics-containing diets in Indian major carps. Many bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens are responsible for high death rates in both wild and cultured fish. It's a major limiting factor for world aquaculture industries. Recognition of invading pathogens by different pathogen recognition receptor plays an important role for the activation of different pathways to initiate protective immune responses. Hence, there is a growing need to control the devastating effects of diseases without recourse to toxic chemicals or antibiotics. Keeping with alternative approaches without using toxic chemicals to control fish diseases in mind, many immunostimulants are used, which enhance immune responses along with their gene expression level through different signaling pathway. The objective of this review is to summarize and evaluate the current knowledge of various immunostimulants and their immune responses in three Indian major carps namely Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala, which are preferred by the people.

Dietary red macroalgae (Halopithys incurva) improved systemic an mucosal immune and antioxidant parameters and modulated related gene expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

In the present study, the effects of dietary Halopithys incurva, a red macroalgae species, (0.25, 0.50, 1%) on whole-body serum and skin mucus immune system, antioxidant system and expression of various genes in zebrafish were investigated. At the end of the 8-week study, total protein, total immunoglobulin and lysozyme activities in whole-body serum and skin mucus increased in fish fed H. incurva (P < 0.05). While an increase was observed in superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) which are antioxidant enzyme activities in whole-body serum and skin mucus, a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels was detected (P < 0.05). All of the immune-related genes examined, such as Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Interferon-gamma (INF- γ), were upregulated by the addition of 0.5% H. incurva (P < 0.05). While SOD and GPx, which are antioxidant enzyme-related genes, were remarkably upregulated in macroalgae fed fish (P < 0.05), no change was observed in CAT gene expression (P > 0.05). Based on the results of this study, it is considered that the addition of 0.5% H. incurva to the diets of commercially farmed fish will increase their immune and antioxidant defences and may contribute to the aquaculture sector for more sustainability.

Gut Immune System and the Implications of Oral-Administered Immunoprophylaxis in Finfish Aquaculture

The gastrointestinal immune system plays an important role in immune homeostasis regulation. It regulates the symbiotic host-microbiome interactions by training and developing the host's innate and adaptive immunity. This interaction plays a vital role in host defence mechanisms and at the same time, balancing the endogenous perturbations of the host immune homeostasis. The fish gastrointestinal immune system is armed with intricate diffused gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALTs) that establish tolerance toward the enormous commensal gut microbiome while preserving immune responses against the intrusion of enteric pathogens. A comprehensive understanding of the intestinal immune system is a prerequisite for developing an oral vaccine and immunostimulants in aquaculture, particularly in cultured fish species. In this review, we outline the remarkable features of gut immunity and the essential components of gut-associated lymphoid tissue. The mechanistic principles underlying the antigen absorption and uptake through the intestinal epithelial, and the subsequent immune activation through a series of molecular events are reviewed. The emphasis is on the significance of gut immunity in oral administration of immunoprophylactics, and the different potential adjuvants that circumvent intestinal immune tolerance. Comprehension of the intestinal immune system is pivotal for developing effective fish vaccines that can be delivered orally, which is less labour-intensive and could improve fish health and facilitate disease management in the aquaculture industry.

Effect of Pandanus tectorius extract as food additive on oxidative stress, immune status, and disease resistance in Cyprinus carpio

The present study investigated the effect of Pandanus tectorius (PT) extract on Cyprinus carpio growth, antioxidant capacity, immunological and oxidative stress, immune-related gene expression, and resistance against pathogen challenge. Fish (average weight: 12.18 ± 0.32 g) were fed with diets containing various concentration (g kg^-1) of PT extract: 0 g (basal diet), 5 g [PT5], 10 g [PT10], 20 g [PT20], and 30 g [PT30] for 8 weeks. Our results revealed an increase (p < 0.05) in the final weight gain only in the PT20 (63.12 ± 1.4 g) group. Activity of liver antioxidant parameters such as catalase (CAT) (27.67 ± 1.12 U mg protein^-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (13.17 ± 0.428 U mg protein^-1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (47.14 ± 1.47 U mg protein^-1) was highest in the PT20 group. Among the serum immunological parameters examined, lysozyme (37.45 ± 0.67 U mL^-1), alternative complement pathway (133.22 ± 1.92 U mL^-1), and phagocytic activities (25.68 ± 0.93%) were high (p < 0.05) in PT20, whereas there was no significant effect on serum immunoglobulin or total protein levels, compared to the control. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were found to be lower (p < 0.05) in the PT20 and PT30 groups than those in the control. However, myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the PT20 and PT30 groups. Gene expression analysis revealed that mRNA expressions of antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) genes were significantly upregulated in the PT10 - PT30 groups, except for the SOD gene in PT10. Conversely, the signalling molecule NF-κBp65 was downregulated in PT20 and PT30. Expression of Toll-like receptor 22 (TLR22) and hepcidin was significantly upregulated in PT20 and PT30, respectively. Fish in the PT20 group exhibited highest relative post-challenge survival (70.37%) against Aeromonas hydrophila challenge. The results of the present study suggest that dietary supplementation of P. tectorius extract at 20 g kg^-1 can significantly improve weight gain, serum antioxidant parameters, strengthen immunity, and increase the disease resistance of C. carpio. Therefore, P. tectorius extract could be exploited for its use as a food additive in aquaculture.

Remarkable positive effects of figwort (Scrophularia striata) on improving growth performance, and immunohematological parameters of fish

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of figwort on the growth and immunohematological parameters of common carp (14.20 ± 0.53 g). Four experimental diets were developed to feed fish for eight weeks: control, Figw10 (10 g/kg figwort), Figw20 (20 g/kg figwort), and Figw30 (30 g/kg figwort). The results showed that fish fed dietary Figw10 gained more weight (38.25 g) than control (P < 0.05). Regarding immunohematological parameters, fish fed dietary Figw30 had a higher level of white blood cells (31.2 10³/mm³), hematocrit (35.82%), blood performance (14.63), total protein (1.96 g/dL), albumin (0.79 g/dL), globulin (1.17 g/dL), lymphocyte (70.53%), monocyte (3.03%), alternative hemolytic complement activity (ACH50) (147.76 u/mL), lysozyme (62.19 u/mL), and bactericidal activities (135.24) than the control group (P < 0.05). After 14 days of the challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila, the Figw30 treatment had the highest survival ratio (61.76%) compared to the control with 26.46%. Further, after the challenge, fish fed dietary Figw30 had a higher value of immunoglobulin M (42.00 μg/mL), antibody titer (19.23), complement component 3 (296.39 μg/mL), and complement component 4 (97.91 μg/mL) when compared with those fed control diet (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the optimum dosage for providing the best immune response was 30 g/kg in diet.

Gene prediction of aging-related diseases based on DNN and Mashup

Background

At present, the bioinformatics research on the relationship between aging-related diseases and genes is mainly through the establishment of a machine learning multi-label model to classify each gene. Most of the existing methods for predicting pathogenic genes mainly rely on specific types of gene features, or directly encode multiple features with different dimensions, use the same encoder to concatenate and predict the final results, which will be subject to many limitations in the applicability of the algorithm. Possible shortcomings of the above include: incomplete coverage of gene features by a single type of biomics data, overfitting of small dimensional datasets by a single encoder, or underfitting of larger dimensional datasets.

Methods

We use the known gene disease association data and gene descriptors, such as gene ontology terms (GO), protein interaction data (PPI), PathDIP, Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes Genes (KEGG), etc, as input for deep learning to predict the association between genes and diseases. Our innovation is to use Mashup algorithm to reduce the dimensionality of PPI, GO and other large biological networks, and add new pathway data in KEGG database, and then combine a variety of biological information sources through modular Deep Neural Network (DNN) to predict the genes related to aging diseases.

Result and conclusion

The results show that our algorithm is more effective than the standard neural network algorithm (the Area Under the ROC curve from 0.8795 to 0.9153), gradient enhanced tree classifier and logistic regression classifier. In this paper, we firstly use DNN to learn the similar genes associated with the known diseases from the complex multi-dimensional feature space, and then provide the evidence that the assumed genes are associated with a certain disease.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12859-021-04518-5.

Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory activities of the genus Ferula and their constituents: A review

Ferula is a genus of the family Apiaceae and it includes around 170 species of flowering plants mostly native to the Mediterranean region and eastern to central Asia. In Iran, Ferula spp. are widely used in cuisine and traditional medicine. This review discusses the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory activities of different species of Ferula. To prepare the present review, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science scientific databases were searched to retrieve relevant articles published from 1985 until December 2020. Based on our literature review, Ferula plants and their derivatives decrease the levels of inflammatory mediators and exert anti-apoptotic effects. Under oxidative stress conditions, these plants and their constituents were shown to decrease oxidative markers such as malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide but increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activity, and glutathione level. Ferula plants and their constituents also showed immunomodulatory effects by affecting various cytokines. Besides, in vivo and in vitro studies showed hypotensive, neuroprotective, memory-enhancing, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, anticytotoxic, antiobesity, and anthelmintic effects for various species of Ferula and their constituents. These plants also showed a healing effect on gynecological issues such as miscarriage, unusual pain, difficult menstruation, and leukorrhea. All these beneficial effects could have resulted from the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of these plants and their constituents. Based on the available literature, members of the genus Ferula can be regarded as potential therapeutics against inflammatory conditions, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation.

Dietary supplementation with dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flower extract provides immunostimulation and resistance against Streptococcus iniae infection in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchusmykiss)

Dandelion flower is a well-known phytomedicine due to its therapeutic effects on dyspepsia, bile duct disorders, spleen and liver complaints, and inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to assess the effect of dietary dandelion flower extract (DFE) on skin mucosal and humoral immunity, immune-related gene expression, and disease resistance in rainbow trout. The fingerlings (N = 300, 20.1 ± 0.9 g) were randomly assigned to 15 tanks and fed with different levels of DEF including 0 (control), 1, 2, 3, and 4 g/kg for 56 days. At the end of the trial, the total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts were significantly enhanced in DFE-added groups compared to the control group. Complement components, immunoglobulin M, total protein, and lysozyme showed significantly higher values in the fish treated with dietary DFE at 3 g/kg than others (P < 0.05). The enzymatic activities of the skin mucus samples in the fish fed dietary levels of DFE were significantly higher than the control fish. Skin mucus protein was also improved significantly in 2 and 3 g/kg DFE compared to others. The transcription levels of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 genes were up-regulated in the fish fed with 3 and 4 g/kg DFE. Interleukin-8 and lysozyme gene expression levels were elevated in 3 g/kg DFE group compared to the control group. Fish mortality after challenging with Streptococcus iniae was significantly reduced from 43.33% in the control group to 73.33% in 3 g/kg DFE group. This study confirmed the beneficial effects of DFE as an immunostimulant in rainbow trout diet and the recommended dose of DFE is 2.49-2.74 g/kg based on the polynomial regression models.

Temperature-dependent pharmacokinetics of trichlorfon in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) after bath immersion therapy

The common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) is one of the most important freshwater fish species. As C. carpio culture has escalated, bacterial and parasitic infections have become a real threat to the industry. Antibacterial and antiparasitic treatments are provided for infection control in C. carpio. However, adequate vaccines have not yet been developed. Trichlorfon (TCF), an organophosphate, is an antiparasitic agent used in aquaculture to treat external parasites. However, there are few pharmacokinetic (PK) studies on its use in fish. This study investigated the residue elimination and temperature-dependent PK characteristics of TCF in C. carpio at 15°C and 25°C after 30 mg/L TCF bath immersion for 30 min. TCF residue concentrations in plasma and muscle tissues were determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and further analyzed using a noncompartmental model. Temperature significantly affected specific PK parameters. Increasing the temperature from 15°C to 25°C shortened the elimination half-life from 36.07 to 22.72 h. The time to reach the maximum plasma TCF residue concentration (C_max ) (T_max ) remained the same (0.5 h), but C_max increased from 67.72 to 70.76 µg/L. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve decreased from 1,057.31 to 962.14 h∙µg/L. The muscle TCF C_max was 446.99 µg/L with a corresponding T_max of 0.5 h at 25°C, and 267.53 µg/L, with a corresponding T_max of 1.0 h at 15°C. The temperature-sensitive PK parameters, such as increased in C_max and decreased elimination and distribution rates, significantly affected the plasma TCF residue concentration and its overall exposure to increasing temperature. Temperature affected the therapeutic outcomes of TCF treatment in C. carpio and likely other freshwater fish. Therefore, proper dosing regimens should take temperature into consideration.

Selenium nanoparticle and selenomethionine as feed additives: effects on growth performance, hepatic enzymes' activity, mucosal immune parameters, liver histology, and appetite-related gene transcript in goldfish (Carassius auratus)

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different dietary selenium sources, selenium nanoparticle (nSe), and selenomethionine (SeMet) as feed additives on growth performance, hepatic enzymes' activity, biochemical, mucosal immune parameters, liver histology, and appetite-related gene transcript in goldfish (Carassius auratus). At first, goldfish juveniles (n=480; mean 4.54 g) were fed dietary selenium nanoparticle at 0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 mg nSe/kg diet and SeMet at 0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 mg Se/kg for 9 weeks. Growth performance was evaluated using standard procedures. Blood, skin mucus, and tissue samples (liver and intestine) were collected for biochemical, mucosal immune response, histology, and ghrelin and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) gene expression. The results showed that fish fed diets fortified with 0.6 mg nSe/kg and 0.6 mg Se/kg had a significant higher weight gain, specific growth rates (SGR), and lower feed conversion ratios (FCR) than fish fed basal diets (p<0.05). Furthermore, dietary nSe and SeMet enhanced blood biochemical profiles especially alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p < 0.05) and mucosal immunity than the control group in goldfish. Moreover, the liver histological investigation showed that fish fed 0.9 mg of SeMet and nSe kg^-1 diets had higher liver lesion scores such as karyolysis, lipidosis, and hyperemia while fish fed 0, 0.3, and 0.6 mg of SeMet and nSe kg^-1 diets had small liver changes at 9 weeks. The study further established that inclusion of nSe and SeMet in the diet of goldfish greatly promoted ghrelin and IGF-1genes expressions (p <0.05). Overall, dietary nSe performs better than SeMet and basal diets. The results evoked that nSe and SeMet stimulate the growth, biochemical, and mucosal immunity in goldfish at 0.6 mg/kg.

Individual and Combined Effects of Aflatoxin B1 and Sterigmatocystin on Lipid Peroxidation and Glutathione Redox System of Common Carp Liver

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the short-term effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1 100 µg/kg feed) and sterigmatocystin (STC 1000 μg/kg feed) exposure individually and in combination (100 μg AFB1 + 1000 μg STC/kg feed) on the parameters of lipid peroxidation and glutathione redox system both in biochemical and gene expression levels in one-year-old common carp. Lipid peroxidation parameters were slightly affected, as significant differences were observed only in conjugated diene and triene concentrations. Reduced glutathione content decreased more markedly by STC than AFB1 or AFB1+STC, but glutathione peroxidase activity did not change. Expression of gpx4a, gpx4b, gss, and gsr genes was down-regulated due to STC compared to AFB1 or AFB1+STC, while an induction was found as effect of AFB1+STC in the case of gpx4a, but down-regulation for gpx4b as compared to AFB1. Expression of the glutathione biosynthesis regulatory gene, gss, was higher, but glutathione recycling enzyme encoding gene, gsr, was lower as an effect of AFB1+STC compared to AFB1. These results are supported by the changes in the expression of transcription factors encoding genes, nrf2, and keap1. The results revealed that individual effects of AFB1 and STC on different parameters are synergistic or antagonistic in multi-toxin treatment.

Effects of dietary asafoetida (Ferula sinkiangensis K. M. Shen) levels on feeding attraction activity, growth performance, healthiness, and digestive enzyme activity in juvenile Lateolabrax japonicus

The study was to investigate effects of asafoetida (Ferula sinkiangensis K. M. Shen) powder on feeding attraction activity (FAA), growth performance, healthiness, and digestive enzyme activity of juvenile Lateolabrax japonicus. Six concentration levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 g/kg diets) were formulated for luring and feeding experiment. Results showed that asafoetida could stimulate the appetite of L. japonicus at the dietary levels from 10 to 25 g/kg; reduce the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and feed intake (FI) at 10-20 g/kg; increase the weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR) at 5-10 g/kg; increase the hepatosomatic index (HSI), body crude lipid content, serum total protein (TP) content, and lysozyme activity at 10-15 g/kg; decrease the moisture at 10-15 g/kg; and increase the serum total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity at 5-15 g/kg, when compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Digestive enzyme activities including amylase (AMS) and trypsin in the intestine were significantly affected by the asafoetida powder (p < 0.05). Regression analyses between the FAA, FCR, WG, SGR, HSI, LZM, T-SOD, AMS, trypsin, and the dietary asafoetida powder levels showed that the optimal additional amount was 16.95, 13.65, 8.36, 8.15, 15.45, 9.94, 8.75, 11.77, and 7.07 g/kg, respectively, indicating that the optimal amount of asafoetida powder was located in 7.07-16.95 g/kg diet. However, combined with the significant difference analyses obtained from the current study, we would suggest the additive suitable dosage was 10 g/kg.

Effects of dietary thyme (Zataria multiflora) extract on antioxidant and immunological responses and immune-related gene expression of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) juveniles

Effects of dietary hydroalcoholic extract of Zataria multiflora (ZE) on growth performance, plasma and hepatic antioxidant capacities, and humoral and skin mucus immune parameters were evaluated in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) juveniles. in vitro tests showed that ZE had antioxidant property comparable to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) at 100-200 μg/mL concentrations, although its antioxidant property was lower than BHT at concentration below 100 μg/mL. Moreover, ZE had anti-bacterial activity against Aeromonas hydrophila, which was 30-50% lower than that of tetracycline. After feeding the fish with diets supplemented with 0 (CT, 1 (ZE1), 2 (ZE2), and 3 (ZE3) g/kg ZE for eight weeks, there were no significant differences in growth performance and feed efficiency among the treatments; however, the fish in ZE2 and ZE3 treatments showed significantly higher survival than the fish in CT treatment. Blood leukocyte counts, plasma globulin, total immunoglobulin, lysozyme and bactericidal activity against A. hydrophila in ZE2 and ZE3 groups were significantly higher than that of CT group. All the ZE-treated groups had higher plasma complement activity compared to the CT group. Mucosal lysozyme and bactericidal activities of the ZE2 fish were significantly higher than the other treatments. Expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6, and lysozyme genes increased in head kidney of the fish treated with ZE; the highest increases were related to the ZE2 treatment. Plasma total antioxidant (TA) activities of ZE2 and ZE3 treatments were significantly higher than that of the CT treatment. Plasma and hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities of ZE2 group were significantly higher than the other treatments. Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly lower in ZE2 treatment, compared to the other treatments. However, hepatic MDA level of ZE2 treatment was significantly lower than those of the ZE1 and CT treatments. In conclusion, dietary ZE supplementation level of 2 g/kg is suggested for rainbow trout feed supplementation to augment fish survival, antioxidant and immune strength.

Effects of dietary fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) leaves powder on serum and mucus antioxidant defence, immunological responses, antimicrobial activity and growth performance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) juveniles

A 56-day research was performed to examine the influence of graded levels (0 (control), 0.5, 1 and 2%) of Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) leaves powder (FLP) in diet on immune competence and growth of common carp (Cyprinus carpio, initial weight = 20 g). The serum total immunoglobulins content and lysozyme activity in the 1 and 2% FLP groups remarkably increased compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). The skin mucosal lysozyme activity enhanced with increasing dietary FLP level in a dose-response manner. Fish fed on the FLP-supplemented diets had higher skin-mucosal superoxide dismutase activity than the control (P < 0.05). However, serum antioxidant enzymes were not affected by dietary fern (P > 0.05). The serum bactericidal activity against human and fish pathogens increased with enhancing the FLP level in diet against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli (EHEC ATCC 43895), Escherichia coli (CI), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Aeromonas hydrophila. The serum antibacterial activity against Yersinia ruckeri in the 2% FLP group was higher than the other treatments. Furthermore, the serum bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) only observed in fish fed on the 1 and 2% FLP-supplemented diets. The skin mucosal bactericidal activity and inhibitory effects increased with enhancing the FLP level in diet against E. coli, K. pneumonia, Y. ruckeri and A. hydrophila in a dose response manner. Moreover, the skin mucosal bactericidal activity against S. aureus only observed in fish fed on 1 and 2% FLP-supplemented diets. The weight gain values in the 1 and 2% FLP groups were higher than the other treatments (P < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved with increasing FLP level in diet in a dose-response manner (P < 0.05). By considering serum and mucosal bactericidal activities against different pathogenic bacteria, the supplementation of 2% FLP in diet is recommended for C. carpio during grow-out phase.

Dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus acidophilus enhanced the growth, gut morphometry, antioxidant capacity, and the immune response in juveniles of the common carp, Cyprinus carpio

This study investigated the effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus-fortified diets on growth performance, antioxidant profiles, and immunity-related gene expressions of common carp, Cyprinus carpio juveniles. Four isonitrogenous diets containing 0, 10², 10⁴, or 10⁶ cfu/mL/kg L. acidophilus were fed to 240 Cyprinus carpio juveniles (mean = 21.34 ± 1.85 g), allotted to 12 rectangular tanks in a completely randomized designed at 3% body weight for 56 days. Growth performance and nutrient utilization were evaluated using standard procedures. Intestinal villi were measured, antioxidant profiles were evaluated from blood sera, and immunity-related gene expressions were evaluated. The results revealed that fish fed dietary 10⁶ had significantly higher weight gain, SGR, feed intake, and lower FCR. Also, villi length, width, and areas of absorption were significantly improved in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, innate immune profiles, superoxide dismutase, catalase, respiratory bust activity as well as transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) were significantly stimulated. This study evoked that Lactobacillus acidophilus supplementation enhanced better growth performance, improved antioxidant profiles, and modulated expression of immune-related genes of common carp, Cyprinus carpio, than the fish fed control diet. Results show that fish fed fortified diets had better growth performance, improved antioxidant profiles, and modulated expression of immune-related genes.

Skin Mucosal, Serum Immunity and Antioxidant Capacity of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Fed Artemisia (Artemisia annua)

In this study, the effect of artemisia (Artemisia annua) leaves extract (ALE) on the immune system, growth performance and antioxidant capacity of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) was investigated. Fish with initial weight (90.32 ± 1.12 g) were fed various levels of ALE (0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 g/kg) for 8 weeks. The results showed that the growth performance (FW, WG, SGR, PER, and LER) in fish fed 1 g/kg ALE was increased significantly (P<0.05) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved in fish fed 1 and 1.5 g/kg ALE in comparison to the control group (P<0.05). Skin mucus total protein was higher in fish fed diet containing 0.5 g/kg ALE than the other experimental groups (P<0.05), while the lysozyme, immunoglobulin and protease was increased by increasing of ALE in diets. Respiratory burst activity and serum immune parameters were higher in fish fed 0.5 g/kg ALE than the other treatments (P<0.05). Increasing of catalase (CAT) and decreasing of malondialdehyde (MDA) were observed in fish fed ALE, while glutathione peroxidase (GPx) increased only in fish fed 0.5 g/kg ALE. Hence, it can be concluded that ALE has considerable potential as a natural immunostimulant and growth promotor supplement for the common carp’s aquaculture.

Immunotoxicological effects of dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls extracted from Zhanjiang Bay sediments in zebrafish

Dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DLPCBs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants spread all over the world. They can cause disorders in the reproductive, nervous, gut, and immune systems. We investigated the effects of DL-PCB extracted from Zhanjiang (Guangdong Province, China) offshore area on the immune functions of adult zebrafish. Zebrafish were exposed to different levels of DL-PCBs, i.e., control, positive control (PCB77 at 16.0 μg/L), low (LD; PCB81 + PCB118 at 0.32 μg/L), and high-dose (HD; PCB81 + PCB118 at 16.0 μg/L) groups for 28 days. Compared with the control group, positive control and HD group showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the number of red blood cells (RBC) on day 7 and the same decrease was observed in the LD group (P < 0.05) on day 21. The results of white blood cell (WBC) profiles were opposite to that of RBCs. Moreover, the serum lysozyme activity was significantly lower in positive control and HD group (P < 0.05) on day 21 but no significant effect was observed in the LD group. The mucus lysozyme activity and immunoglobulin concentration in positive control and HD group decreased significantly (P < 0.05) from day 14. A similar effect was observed in the LD group but was significant (P < 0.05) only on day 28. Additionally, histopathological examination showed accumulation of hemosiderin in the spleen of experimental animals, which was significant in positive control and HD group. Further, renal tubular epithelial cells of head kidney were swollen in the positive control and HD group while the expansion of lumen and renal interstitial edema was observed in the LD group on day 21 and with significant presence on 28 days. Therefore, these findings suggest that the exposure of zebrafish to DL-PCBs at > 16.0 μg/L can impair their immune functions.

The Effects of Oral Rehmannia glutinosa Polysaccharide Administration on Immune Responses, Antioxidant Activity and Resistance Against Aeromonas hydrophila in the Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio L

The effects of the oral administration of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide (RGP-1) on the immunoregulatory properties, antioxidant activity, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in Cyprinus carpio L. were investigated. The purified RGP-1 (250, 500, and 1,000 μg/mL) was co-cultured with the head kidney cells of the common carp. The proliferation and phagocytosis activities of the head kidney cells, and the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines in the culture medium were determined. Next, 300 common carps (47.66 ± 0.43 g) were randomly divided into five groups; the two control groups (negative and positive) were administered sterile PBS and the three treatment groups were administered different concentrations of RGP-1 (250, 500, and 1,000 μg/mL) for seven days. Subsequently, the positive and treatment groups were infected with A. hydrophila, and the negative group was administered sterile PBS for 24 h. The concentration of NO, cytokines, lysozyme (LZM), and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) in serum, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), the levels of malonaldehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), and the total activities of superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the hepatopancreas of the common carp were tested. We observed that RGP-1 could significantly enhance the proliferation and phagocytosis activities (P < 0.05), besides inducing the production of NO, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β) (P < 0.05) in vitro. The in vivo experimental results revealed that RGP-1 significantly enhanced NO production, protein levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12), LZM and AKP activities, and the antioxidant content (T-AOC, SOD, CAT, GSH, GSH-Px, and MDA) compared to that observed in the negative group prior to A. hydrophila infection (P < 0.05). NO, pro-inflammatory cytokines, LZM and AKP activities were significantly lower than that in the positive group after infection (P < 0.05). However, whether infected or not, the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β) increased significantly in the RGP-1-treated groups (P < 0.05). Therefore, the results suggested that RGP-1 could enhance the non-specific immunity, antioxidant activity and anti-A. hydrophila activity of the common carp, and could be used as a safe and effective feed additive in aquaculture.

Humoral and skin mucosal immune parameters, intestinal immune related genes expression and antioxidant defense in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed olive (Olea europea L.) waste

A six-week feeding trial was carried out to evaluate the effects of inclusion of dietary olive waste cake (OWC, 0, 0.5, 2.5 and 5 g kg^-1 diet) on performance, antioxidant condition and immune responses of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (2.5 ± 0.1 g). Supplementing diet with 2.5 and 5 g OWC kg^-1 diet significantly enhanced serum and mucosal lysozyme activity in fish. Regarding mucosal immunity, fish fed 2.5 and 5 g OWC kg^-1 diets had higher skin mucus total Ig concentrations than other groups. In relation to antioxidant status, those in 2.5 g OWC kg^-1 and the control groups exhibited the highest and the least liver superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, respectively. Furthermore, the activity of liver glutathione S transferase in fish fed 2.5 and 5 g OWC kg^-1 diets was higher than the other treatments. In respect to gut cytokines gene expression, our findings demonstrated dietary OWC did not influence interlukines-1β and 10 genes expression, but relative expression of IL8 gene gradually up-regulated with increasing dietary OWC level. Moreover, fish fed 0.5 g OWC kg^-1 and the control diets had the highest and the lowest gut tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression values, respectively. The relative expression of transforming growth factor-β significantly down-regulated in gut of fish fed 2.5 and 5 g OWC kg^-1 diets compared to other groups. Supplementing diet with OWC pronouncedly improved growth and feed conversion ratio in fish compared to the control. Overall, the findings of this study suggested that inclusion of 2.5 g OWC kg^-1 diet can improve growth rate, oxidative stress status, humoral and skin mucosal immune responses in O. mykiss fingerlings and it can be considered as a functional feed additive for this species.

Dietary supplementation of lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) improved immunity, immune-related genes expression and antioxidant enzymes in rainbow trout (Oncorrhyncus mykiss)

The use of veterinary drugs for the treatments of fish diseases has often health and environmental side effects and thus alternative more sustainable strategies are needed. In this study we have explored the effect of dietary administration of lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) leaves powder on growth, immune parameters and antioxidant enzyme activity of rainbow trout (Oncorrhyncus myskiss). The results show that adding lemon verbena (LV) leaves powder (0.5, 1 and 2%), as feed supplement does not affect significantly rainbow trout growth, but increases the levels of some immune parameters. All enriched-diets induced an increase in the levels of lysozyme activity and total immunoglobulin in rainbow trout serum (P < 0.05), whilst 1 and 2% enriched-diets increased lysozyme and immunoglobulin in skin mucus. Expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was enhanced in all fish supplemented with LV leaves powder (0.5, 1 and 2%) whilst only the diet with the highest dose (2%) induced a significantly higher expression of IL-8 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α). Fish fed with LV leaves powder at 1 and 2% had significantly lower expression of transforming growth factor (TGF-β, P < 0.05). Furthermore, all enriched-diets significantly increased the activity of super oxide dismutase (SOD, P < 0.05) and diets containing 1 and 2% of LV leaves powder also increased activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). In conclusion, LV leaves powder administered as feed supplement at 2% enhances the expression of some immune-related genes (IL-1β, IL-8 and TNF- α), rises the levels of lysozyme and total immunoglobulin in serum and skin mucus and increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GST and GPx) in rainbow trout.

Combined effects of aflatoxin B1 and deoxynivalenol on the expression of glutathione redox system regulatory genes in common carp

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the short-term effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁ ) and deoxynivalenol (DON) exposure on the expression of the genes encoding the glutathione redox system glutathione peroxidase 4a (gpx4a), glutathione peroxidase 4b (gpx4b), glutathione synthetase (gss) and glutathione reductase (gsr) and the oxidative stress response-related transcription factors Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1) and nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (nrf2) in liver, kidney and spleen of common carp. During the 24-hr long experiment, three different doses (5 µg AFB₁ and 110 µg DON; 7.5 µg AFB₁ and 165 µg DON or 10 µg AFB₁ and 220 µg DON/kg bw) were used. The results indicated that the co-exposure of AFB₁ and DON initiated free radical formation in liver, kidney and spleen, which was suggested by the increase in Nrf2 dependent genes, namely gpx4a, gpx4b, gss and gsr. Expression of keap1 gene showed upregulation after 8 hr of mycotoxin exposure, and also upregulation of nrf2 gene was found in kidney after 8 hr of exposure, while in the liver, only slight differences were observed. The changes in the expression of the analysed genes suggest that level of reactive oxygen species reached a critical level where other signalling pathway was activated as described by the hierarchical model of oxidative stress.

Extract of common mallow (Malvae sylvestris) enhances growth, immunity, and resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fingerlings against Yersinia ruckeri infection

The dietary effects of a native medicinal plant from Iran, common mallow (Malvae sylvestris), was evaluated on growth performance, innate immune parameters, mucosal immune parameters, and resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) against Yersinia ruckeri. Therefore, 360 fish (initial weight 10.42 ± 0.09 g) were randomly distributed into 12 fiberglass tanks. Experimental diets supplemented with 0 (as control- C), 1% (M1), 3% (M2) and 5% (M3) levels of M. sylvestris flowers extract were fed to the fish based on 3% of body weight for 8 weeks. At the terminal sampling, growth performance, liver and digestive enzymes activities, blood and mucosal immune responses were determined. Results showed that M2 and M3 had greater final weight, weight gain, SGR, survival rate and lower FCR; higher levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, and lower cortisol levels in comparison to control; 5% extract also lowered cholesterol and glucose levels as well as Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. We reported higher values of hematocrit, hemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), White Blood Cell (WBC), Red Blood Cell (RBC) and lymphocytes for treated groups. Innate immune responses (Alternative complement activity (ACH50) in M2 and M3 group, total Immunoglobulin (Ig) and lysozyme in M3), mucosal immune parameters (ACH50, total Ig for M2 and M3 group and lysozyme in all treated groups) were enhanced. Activities of digestive enzymes (protease in all treated groups, amylase for 3 and 5%, while lipase only for 5%) and lower activity of liver ALT enzyme in individuals treated with highest dose was observed. Overall results indicated that the extract can positively affect growth performance and immune responses of rainbow trout.

Effects of dietary fenugreek seed extracts on growth performance, plasma biochemical parameters, lipid metabolism, Nrf2 antioxidant capacity and immune response of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

Dietary administration of some plant-derived substances have been proved of great economic value in aquaculture. In order to investigate the effects of dietary fenugreek seed extracts (FSE) on juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala), a feeding trial was conducted for 8 weeks. The results showed that final weight (FW), weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and specific growth rate (SGR) were not significantly affected by dietary FSE levels. The whole body lipid contents of fish fed with 0.04%, 0.08% and 0.16% FSE diets were significantly lowered compared to the control group. Dietary FSE diets significantly affected plasma complement component 3 (C3), immunoglobulin M (IgM), albumin (ALB) and total protein (TP). The relative expressions of acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP1) mRNA in the liver of fish decreased significantly with increasing dietary FSE levels from 0% up to 0.04%. FSE supplementation diets lowered the liver pro-inflammatory genes expressions by regulating tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) mRNA levels and increased anti-inflammatory genes expression by regulating transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and interleukin 10 (IL-10). FSE diets increased growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and target of rapamycin (TOR) mRNA levels from 0% up to 0.04%, 0.04% FSE diets significantly increased growth factor-1 (IGF-1) mRNA levels and S6 kinase-polypeptide 1 (S6K1) mRNA levels compared to the control group. 0.04% FSE diets significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and 0.08% FSE diets significantly increased catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, 0.16% FSE diets significantly increased total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activities compared to the control group. Additionally, compared to the control group, 0.04% dietary FSE significantly up-regulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA levels and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx1) mRNA levels, at the same time, 0.02%, 0.04%, 0.08%, 0.16% FSE diets significantly down-regulated kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) mRNA levels. However, no significant effects were observed on copper zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) and manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD). Our study indicated that dietary FSE could improve plasma biochemical parameters, regulate lipid metabolism related genes, promote Nrf2 antioxidant capacity and enhance immune response of juvenile blunt snout bream.

NMR-based metabolomic study of asafoetida

Asafoetida, an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the exudates of Ferula assa-foetida L. roots, is traditionally used to treat various diseases including asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, and intestinal parasites. On the basis of Iranian traditional medicine, the main source of asafetida is F. assa-foetida roots. In folk medicine, however, different Ferula species have been used as sources of asafoetida. To identify the original asafoetida that possesses medicinal properties, we should compare metabolic profiles of different asafoetida sources which are commonly used for the oleo-gum-resin preparation.¹H-NMR based metabolomics was used to obtain metabolic profiles of eight asafoetida oleo-gum-resin samples and forty-six samples of Ferula species roots from two main regions of Iran. The acquired data were analyzed using multivariate principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and orthogonal projection to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) to identify the metabolic differences and similarities between the samples. Asafoetida is usually produced from Ferula species of southern and eastern regions of Iran. A clear metabolic differentiation was evident between asafoetida oleo-gum- resin samples from the southern and those of the eastern Iran. The distinguished metabolites, umbelliprenin, farnesiferol B, farnesiferol C, samarcandin and galbanic acid are significantly found in southern samples. Only southern asafoetida is obtained from F. assa-foetida. Asafoetida from eastern region of Iran is obtained from other species of Ferula such as F. alliacea and its metabolic profile is far different from that of southern asafoetida.

Effects of bioactive substance from turmeric on growth, skin mucosal immunity and antioxidant factors in common carp, Cyprinus carpio

Present study evaluated the effects of curcumin, the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, on Cyprinus carpio growth, skin mucosal immune parameters, immune-related gene expression, and susceptibility to pathogen challenge. Diets containing four various concentrations of curcumin (g Kg^-1): 0 g [basal diet], 5 g [T5], 10 g [T10], and 15 g [T15] were fed to the carp (average weight: 16.37 g) for 8 weeks. Growth parameters were analysed at 4 and 8 weeks post-feeding. Skin mucosal immune responses and expression were examined in 8 weeks post-feeding. Growth performance was significantly higher in T10 and T15, with final weight gain of 102.26 ± 2.31 g and specific growth rate of 3.24 ± 0.37, respectively. The lowest feed conversion ratio (2.35 ± 0.16) was recorded in T15 than in the control (P < 0.05). Among the skin mucosal immune parameters examined, lysozyme (36.8 ± 4.03 U mL^-1), total immunoglobulin (6.74 ± 0.5 mg mL^-1), protein level (18.7 ± 1.62 mg mL^-1), alkaline phosphatase (96.37 ± 6.3 IU L^-1), and protease activity (9.47 ± 0.82%) were significantly higher in T15, while the peroxidase activity was higher in T10 (10.24 ± 0.9 U mg^-1 protein). Further, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were measured in serum and found to be higher in T10 or T15 than in the control (P < 0.05). However, malondialdehyde level decreased significantly in T10 and T15. Furthermore, antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and anti-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-10 were upregulated in the head kidney, intestine, and hepatopancreas of fish in T10 and T15. Conversely, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor-alpha), signalling molecule NF-κBp65 were down-regulated in the tested tissues of T10 and T15. Expression of Toll-like receptor 22 (TLR22) was down regulated in head-kidney and intestine of T15. Fish from T15 exhibited significantly higher relative post-challenge survival (69.70%) against Aeromonas hydrophila challenge. Results of the present study suggest that dietary supplements of curcumin at 15 g Kg^-1can significantly improve the growth performance, skin mucosal and serum antioxidant parameters, and strengthen the immunity of C. carpio. Therefore, curcumin represents a promising food additive for carps in aquaculture.

Dietary administration of ferula (Ferula asafoetida) powder as a feed additive in diet of koi carp, Cyprinus carpio koi: effects on hemato-immunological parameters, mucosal antibacterial activity, digestive enzymes, and growth performance

This study investigated the impacts of various levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 g kg^-1) of dietary ferula (Ferula asafoetida) powder (FP) on the hemato-immunological indices, antibacterial properties of skin mucus, survival rate, and growth performance as well as digestive enzyme activity of Koi carp, Cyprinus carpio koi, fingerlings. Following 63 days of feeding trail, WBCs, RBCs, Hb, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and lymphocyte levels increased coincident with an increasing FP level in experimental diets compared with control diet (P < 0.05). Dietary FP significantly increased total protein content and the activities of total immunoglobulins, lysozyme, and alternative hemolytic complement in a concentration-dependent manner in the serum of koi fish (P < 0.05). The elevation of the FP level in experimental diets resulted in an increase in SGR value and a reduction in FCR value (P < 0.05). The survival rate also increased significantly coincident with the increasing dietary FP level (P < 0.05). The results revealed that dietary ferula powder especially at levels of 20 and 25 g kg^-1 could be used as an effective herbal dietary supplement in the enhancement of humoral innate immune responses and growth of koi carp.

Enhanced mucosal immune responses, immune related genes and growth performance in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) juveniles fed dietary Pediococcus acidilactici MA18/5M and raffinose

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary Pediococcus acidilactici (PA) and raffinose (RF) alone or in combination on growth performance, mucosal immune factors and immune related genes expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) juveniles. Fish with initial weight of 10.0 ± 2.5 g were fed the following experimental diets for 60 days: control (without supplementation), prebiotic (2 g RF kg^-1 diet), probiotic (6 × 10⁸ CFU g^-1PA) and synbiotic (2 g RF kg^-1+ 6 × 10⁸ CFU g^-1PA). Carp fed synbiotic and probiotic diets had the highest (19.53 ± 0.16) and the lowest (18.05 ± 0.65) final body weight, respectively and the other experimental groups showed intermediate values. Singular administration of PA or in combination with 2 g RF kg^-1 significantly increased skin mucus total immunoglobulin (Ig) and protein compared other groups, meanwhile, values of skin mucus protease activity enhanced by dietary immunostimulants administration in comparison with the control (P < 0.05). The expression of gene encoding lysozyme in skin pronouncedly increased by supplementing diets with singular or mixture of PA and RF; however, the expression of intestinal lysozyme gene as well as tumor necrosis factor-α genes expression in skin and intestine were not affected by administrating different immunostimulants (P > 0.05). The highest growth performance was noticed in fish fed synbiotic (P < 0.05). Overall, the combination of 2 g RF kg^-1 with 6 × 10⁸ CFU g^-1PA is recommended for improving immunological responses of C. carpio juveniles.

Enrichment of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings diet with Psidium guajava: The effects on cutaneous mucosal and serum immune parameters and immune related genes expression

The present study aimed at evaluation of possible effects of Psidium guajava as immunostimulant on mucosal and serum immunity, as well as related genes expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings. In an eight weeks feeding trial, fish were fed with experimental diets containing guava leaf powder [GLP] (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1%). Then, skin mucus and serum immune parameters (total Ig, alkaline phosphatase activity, lysozyme activity), as well as immune related genes expression (TNF-alpha, IL1b, IL8) were measured. All levels of GLP inclusion in the diet brought about the increase in total Ig in the serum, while in the mucus only the highest level of GLP was effective. No significant differences were observed in mucus alkanine phosphatase activity, while fish fed 0.25% of GLP had noticeably higher serum lysozyme activity. The mucus total protein electrophoretic pattern revealed some differences between the control and the treated fish. Two high MW bands were present in the control group but not in the treated groups. Three bands with a low MW comprised between 35 and 17 mw were noticed in GLP fed carps and not in the control. Gene expression studies revealed no noticeable alterations in TNF-alpha gene between treated fish and control. However, the level of expression of IL-8 was strongly upregulated in fish fed 0.5 and 1% of GLP. Also, feeding on 0.5% of GLP significantly upregulated IL1b gene expression. Evaluation of growth performance revealed improved performance parameters in GLP treated groups. These results confirmed possible immunomodulatory and beneficial effects of GLP on common carp fingerlings.

Validation of growth enhancing, immunostimulatory and disease resistance properties of Achyranthes aspera in Labeo rohita fry in pond conditions

The immunostimulatory and disease resistance properties of herb Achyranthes aspera L. (Amaranthaceae) were evaluated in rohu Labeo rohita in pond. Rohu fry (1.9 ± 0.08 g) were cultured in hapas (25 hapa⁻¹) set inside a pond and were fed with two experimental diets containing 0.5% seeds (D1) and leaves (D2) of A. aspera and control diet (D3). Fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila after 80 days. The cumulative mortality rate of fish was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in D3 (28–48%) compared to others. Average weight was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in D1 (6.5–12.5%) compared to other treatments. Myeloperoxidase and nitric oxide synthase levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in D1 and D2 compared to D3. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and carbonyl protein levels were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in hepatopancreas and kidney of D1 compared to others. In hepatopancreas, the expressions of lysozyme C, loysozyme G, TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-1β were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in D1 compared to others. This treatment was followed by D2. In kidney, lysozyme G and TNF-α levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in D1 and D2 compared to D3. Whereas, IL-10 and IL-1β were significantly (P < 0.05) down-regulated and up-regulated, respectively in kidney of D2. There was up-regulation (P < 0.05) of TLR-4 in hepatopancreas and kidney of D1 and D2 diets fed rohu, respectively compared to others.

Effects of dietary blackberry syrup supplement on growth performance, antioxidant, and immunological responses, and resistance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus to Plesiomonas shigelloides

The present study investigated the effects of dietary blackberry syrup on growth performance, haematological, non-specific immune and spleen gene expression responses of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five experimental groups of fish with mean weights of 26.75 ± 2.67 g were used in the study; three of them were fed with blackberry syrup incorporated diets (7.5 g kg^-1- BBRY7.5, 15 g kg^-1- BBRY15, 30 g kg^-1- BBRY30), whereas an additive free basal diet served as the control. Additionally, the fifth group was an antibiotic medicated diet (0.02 g kg^-1- ABTC), prepared with the florfenicol. Dietary blackberry syrup especially at 15 g kg^-1 significantly increased growth performance, respiratory burst activity, potential killing activity, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, lysozyme activity, myeloperoxidase activity, total immunoglobulin levels, serum SOD activity and serum CAT activity (p < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary blackberry syrup increased the expression levels of immune [heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), interleukin 1, beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), immunoglobulin M (IgM)] and antioxidant [glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] related genes in the spleen of fish fed with especially 15 g kg^-1 blackberry syrup (p < 0.05). At the end of the 20-day challenge period the survival rates were significantly higher in the BBRY15 and ABTC groups compared to all other treatment groups (p < 0.05). As a result, feeding Nile tilapia with a diet containing 15 g kg^-1 blackberry syrup over a period of 90 days might be adequate to improve growth performance, fish immune parameters, antioxidant status, as well as survival rate against P. shigelloides, similar to antibiotic treatment. Hence, blackberry syrup can be used as an antibiotics replacer for controlling P. shigelloides in tilapia feed.

Mucosal immune parameters, immune and antioxidant defence related genes expression and growth performance of zebrafish (Danio rerio) fed on Gracilaria gracilis powder

In the present study zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been used as model organism to establish the effects of dietary supplementation of Gracilaria gracilis powder (GP) on mucosal and innate immune parameters, antioxidant enzymes, and growth. In order to establish these features, zebrafish were fed for eight weeks with experimental diets containing different levels of Red algae, 0.25, 0.5 and 1% of GP; also, a group was fed with control diet. At the end of the experimental period the antioxidant superoxide dismutase and catalase (SOD, CAT) genes expression, interleukin 1 beta (il-1β), 
lysozyme (LYZ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) for immune-related genes expression, total immunoglobulin (Ig), total protein, 
alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity for innate immune parameters, and growth performance have been established. The GP dietary supplementation showed differences in SOD and CAT expression in zebrafish whole body respect to the control group. Non-signifcant differences were noticed among the different groups in case of TNF-α, LYZ and il-1expression (P > 0.05). The skin mucus total Ig and total protein in the group fed on 1% of GP were significantly higher respect to control group (P < 0.05). 0.25 and 0.5% of GP dietary supplementation significantly enhanced skin mucus ALP activity levels (P < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded for growth performances among groups (P > 0.05). The results obtained in the present study revealed that G. gracilis could be takes in account as fishes diet supplementation for its immune system stimulants effects.

The effects of the dietary supplementation of Echinacea purpurea extract and/or vitamin C on the intestinal histomorphology, phagocytic activity, and gene expression of the Nile tilapia

In this study, the influence of the dietary incorporation of Echinacea purpurea (EP) extract and/or vitamin C on the intestinal histomorphology and some immunological indices were tested in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linn.). O. niloticus were randomly divided into four groups. The control group G₁ was fed on a basal diet, while the G₂ and G₃ were fed on basal diets, supplemented with EP extract and vitamin C at the doses of 500 mg kg^-1 and 400 mg kg^-1, respectively. Meanwhile, G₄ was fed on a basal diet, supplemented with a mixture of EP extract and vitamin C. After 28 days of feeding, the intestinal tissues were collected for histological observation and immune status, was based on an assay for measuring the phagocytic activity. Furthermore, the expression of the transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) genes was evaluated in intestine and head kidney. The results revealed that the G₄ successfully surpassed the other groups in terms of the heights of intestinal villi, the number of goblet cells and intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs), and the phagocytic activity, followed by the G₃ and G₂. The expression of the IL-1β and TNF-α genes were up regulated only in G₄ but in the G₃ only the expression of the IL-1β gene was up regulated. Hence, EP extract along with vitamin C could be used as a feed additive in order to improve the structure of the intestinal mucosal epithelium and immune response in tilapia.

Dietary administration effects of fenugreek seeds on skin mucosal antioxidant and immunity status of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.)

Improving fish defense through the preventive administration of immunostimulants has an important role in controlling the outbreak of the disease in aquaculture. As a continuity of our previous studies, this paper describes the effects of dietary fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seeds on the skin mucosal antioxidant status and immune response of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.). Fish were fed with four experimental diets: one a basal diet (control) and three diets with powdered fenugreek seeds incorporated in the fish feed at 1%, 5%, and 10%. After eight weeks of feeding, free radicals scavenging and antioxidant assays were assessed in skin mucus by measuring the peroxidation of phospholipid liposomes, hydroxyl radical and hydrogen peroxide scavenging, measurement of total antioxidant activity and the determination of antioxidant activity in a linoleic acid system. The skin mucosal immune response was evaluated by measuring the IgM levels and some enzymatic activities (peroxidase, antiprotease, protease, esterase, and ceruloplasmin). Our results demonstrated that fenugreek inclusion improved the hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity and conferred very high antioxidant activity. Besides, only the highest supplementation level (10%) was able to augment the peroxidase and protease activities confronted by a general decrement in the antiprotease activity in the experimental fed groups with 1% and 10%. These results suggest that the dietary administration of fenugreek at the higher inclusion dose enhances the skin mucosal immunity response and the antioxidant status of gilthead seabream a species with one of the highest rates of production in marine aquaculture.

Vasodilatory effect of asafoetida essential oil on rat aorta rings: The role of nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and calcium channels

BACKGROUND

Asafoetida is an oleo-gum resin mainly obtained from Ferula assa-foetida L. species in the apiaceae family. Previous studies have shown that it has antispasmodic effects on rat's and pig's ileums.

PURPOSE

The main goals of this study were to assess the vasodilatory effect of asafoetida essential oil (AEO) on the contractile response of rat's aorta rings and to find the role of nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase, and calcium channels. Thoracic aorta rings were stretched under a steady-state tension of 1 g in an organ bath apparatus for 1 h and then precontracted by KCl (80 mM) in the presence and absence of AEO. L-NAME (blocker of nitric oxide synthase) and indomethacin (blocker of cyclooxygenase) were used to assess the role of nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin in the vasodilatory effect of AEO. Also, the effect of AEO on the influx of calcium through the cell membrane calcium channels was determined.

RESULTS

Data showed that AEO had vasodilatory effects on aorta rings with both intact (IC₅₀ = 1.6 µl/l) or denuded endothelium (IC₅₀ = 19.2 µl/l) with a significantly higher potency in intact endothelium rings. The vasodilatory effects of AEO were reduced, but not completely inhibited, in the presence of L-NAME or indomethacin. Adding AEO to the free-calcium medium also significantly reduced the CaCl₂-induced contractions.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that AEO has a potent vasodilatory effect that is endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent. Also, it reduced the influx of calcium into the cell through plasma membrane calcium channels.

Effects of Lactobacillus delbrueckii on immune response, disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila, antioxidant capability and growth performance of Cyprinus carpio Huanghe var

The aim of the present study was to investigate effects of dietary Lactobacillus delbrueckii (L. delbrueckii) on immune response, disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila), antioxidant capability and growth performance of Cyprinus carpio Huanghe var. 450 fish (mean weight of 1.05 ± 0.03 g) were randomly distributed into five groups that fed diets containing different levels of L. delbrueckii (0, 1 × 10⁵, 1 × 10⁶, 1 × 10⁷ and 1 × 10⁸ CFU g^-1) for 8 weeks. The results showed that intestinal immune parameters such as lysozyme, acid phosphatase, and myeloperoxidase activities, immunoglobulin M content, and the survival rate were improved in fish fed with 1 × 10⁶ and 1 × 10⁷ CFU g^-1L. delbrueckii. In addition, 1 × 10⁷ CFU g^-1L. delbrueckii supplementation down-regulated mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-8, IL-1β and NF-κBp65, and up-regulated IL-10 and TGF-β mRNA levels in the intestine. The survival rate was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (68.33%) in fish fed 1 × 10⁶ CFU g^-1L. delbrueckii than the control diet-fed group (40%) after challenge by A. hydrophila. Fish fed with diet containing 1 × 10⁶ CFU g^-1L. delbrueckii showed higher antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and lower MDA concentrations than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The relative gene expression (SOD, CAT, GPX) showed the same trend with their activities. In addition, the growth performance was significantly improved in fish fed with the diet containing 1 × 10⁶ and 1 × 10⁷ CFU g^-1L. delbrueckii (P < 0.05). These results demonstrated that dietary optimal levels of L. delbrueckii enhanced immunity, disease resistance against A. hydrophila antioxidant capability and growth performance in Cyprinus carpio Huanghe var.

Enrichment of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) diet with medlar (Mespilus germanica) leaf extract: Effects on skin mucosal immunity and growth performance

A feeding trial was performed to assess the effects of dietary Medlar (Mespilus germanica) leaf extract (MLE) on the growth performance, skin mucus non-specific immune parameters as well as mRNA levels of immune and antioxidant related genes in the skin of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings. Fish were fed diets supplemented with graded levels (0, 0.25, 0.50, and 1.00%) of MLE for 49 days. The results revealed an improvement to the growth performance and feed conversion ratio in MLE fed carps (P < 0.05), regardless of the inclusion level. The immunoglobulin levels and interleukin 8 levels in the skin mucous and skin, respectively, revealed significant increment in fish fed 1% MLE (P < 0.05) in comparison with the other MLE treatments and control group. Also, feeding on 0.25% and 0.50% MLE remarkably increased skin mucus lysozyme activity (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant difference between MLE treated groups and control (P > 0.05) in case protease activity in the skin mucous or tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 1 beta gene expression in the skin of carps (P > 0.05). The expression of genes encoding glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase alpha were remarkably increased in MLE fed carps compared to the control group (P < 0.05) while carp fed 0.50% or 1.00% MLE had significantly increased glutathione peroxidase expression in their skin (P < 0.05). The present results revealed the potentially beneficial effects of MLE on the mucosal immune system and growth performance in common carp fingerlings.