8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, a biomarker of oxidative DNA injury, in diabetic kidney disease

The silent saboteur: oxidative stress and the path to cognitive dysfunction

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a central role in age-related cognitive decline and neurodegeneration and is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Elevated OS biomarkers are detectable from the earliest stages of these disorders. In this critical narrative review, we explore the bioenergetic cascade underlying neurodegeneration, emphasizing pathophysiological alterations, mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. Recent evidence suggests that OS and impaired cellular energy dynamics are both early markers and downstream effects of neuroinflammation, contributing to symptom severity and reduced treatment efficacy. A deeper understanding of these interrelated processes is essential for the development of more effective interventions. Monitoring OS-related metabolites may offer a promising strategy for identifying therapeutic targets and enabling early clinical intervention, ultimately aiming to reduce neuroinflammation and improve patient outcomes in AD and PD.

Linking oxidative stress biomarkers to disease progression and antioxidant therapy in hypertension and diabetes mellitus

Oxidative stress (OS) is increasingly recognized as a key factor linking hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM). This review summarizes recent evidence regarding the dual role of OS as both an instigator and an amplifier of cardiometabolic dysfunction. In HTN, reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to endothelial impairment and vascular remodeling. In DM, hyperglycemia-induced ROS production worsens beta-cell failure and insulin resistance through pathways such as the AGE-RAGE signaling, protein kinase C (PKC) activation, and the polyol pathway. Clinically validated biomarkers of OS, such as F2-isoprostanes (which indicate lipid peroxidation), 8-OHdG (which indicates DNA damage), and the activities of redox enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), show strong correlations with disease progression and end-organ complications. Despite promising preclinical results, the application of antioxidant therapies in clinical settings has faced challenges due to inconsistent outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted approaches. Emerging strategies include: 1. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidants to enhance vascular function in resistant HTN; 2. Nrf2 activators to restore redox balance in early diabetes; and 3. Specific inhibitors of NOX isoforms. We emphasize three transformative areas of research: (i) the interaction between the microbiome and ROS, where modifying gut microbiota can reduce systemic OS; (ii) the use of nanotechnology to deliver antioxidants directly to pancreatic islets or atherosclerotic plaques; and (iii) phenotype-specific diagnosis and therapy guided by redox biomarkers and genetic profiling (for example, KEAP1/NRF2 polymorphisms). Integrating these advances with lifestyle modifications, such as following a Mediterranean diet and exercising regularly, may provide additional benefits. This review outlines a mechanistic framework for targeting OS in the comorbidity of HTN and DM while identifying critical knowledge gaps, particularly regarding the timing of antioxidant signaling and the development of personalized redox medicine, which may serve as a reference for researchers and clinicians working in this area.

Coix Seed Oil Alleviates Hyperuricemia in Mice by Ameliorating Oxidative Stress and Intestinal Microbial Composition

Background: Coix seed oil (YRO), rich in unsaturated fatty acids, has emerged as a promising intervention for hyperuricemia (HUA) due to its potential to alleviate oxidative damage and support organ health. Methods: The fatty acid composition of YRO was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A HUA mouse model was established, and serum markers and hepatic enzymes were evaluated. Renal mitochondrial function was assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, and urate transporter expression, along with key signaling proteins, was quantified by Western blot analysis. Additionally, gut microbiota composition was analyzed, and non-targeted metabolomics was performed to observe alterations in serum lipid metabolites. Results: YRO significantly reduced serum uric acid (UA) levels and normalized hepatic enzyme activities. Histological evaluation revealed less tissue damage in both the kidney and the intestine. In the kidney, YRO improved mitochondrial function and supported antioxidant defenses via regulation of Keap1/Nrf2 signaling. In the intestine, YRO enhanced barrier integrity by increasing ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-1 expression. Moreover, YRO modulated gut microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria (Muribaculaceae, Prevotellaceae UCG-001, Lachnospiraceae_ NK4A136_group, Akkermansia) while suppressing harmful species (Bacteroides, Dubosiella). Lipid metabolomics indicated a restoration of phospholipid balance through modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Conclusions: YRO supported metabolic health by promoting UA homeostasis, enhancing mitochondrial function, reinforcing antioxidant capacity, and maintaining gut integrity. These findings suggest that coix seed oil could serve as a nutritional supplement in managing HUA and related metabolic disturbances.