Lipid peroxidation cannot be used as a universal criterion of oxidative stress

Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of Sacha inchi oil in atopic dermatitis mice

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent inflammatory skin condition characterized by a multifaceted pathogenesis, which encompasses immune system signaling dysregulation, compromised skin barrier function, and genetic influencers. Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) oil (SIO) has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, however, the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of SIO on AD remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the anti-AD effect of SIO and its possible molecular mechanism in mice with AD. The results demonstrated that SIO significantly reduced the degree of skin lesions and scratching, and improved the skin thickness and mast cell infiltration in AD mice. Furthermore, SIO significantly reduced the levels of immunoglobulin E, histamine and thymic stromal lymphopoietin in serum of AD mice. Additionally, it inhibited the expression of tumor necrosis factor-γ, interferon-γ, interleukin-2, interleukin-4, interleukin 1β and other inflammatory cytokines in the lesions skin of mice. The Western blotting analysis revealed that SIO exhibited an upregulatory effect on the protein expression of filaggrin and loricrin, while concurrently exerting inhibitory effects on the protein expression and phosphorylation levels of P38, ERK, NF-κB, and IκBα within their respective signaling pathways. Consequently, it can be inferred that SIO exerts a significant anti-atopic dermatitis effect by modulating the P38, ERK, NF-κB, and IκBα signaling pathways. This study contributes to expand the research and development potential of SIO, and provides novel insights and potential therapeutic strategies for AD treatment.

In vivo evidence of sea buckthorn relieving oxidative stress and improving immune performance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

BACKGROUND

Sea buckthorn has the functions of antioxidation, antitumor, anti-inflammation and regulating energy metabolism. In order to investigate the effects of sea buckthorn powder and sea buckthorn flavonoids on the antioxidant properties, immune function and muscle fatty acid composition of common carp, an oral feeding experiment was carried out.

RESULTS

The administration of glucose significantly reduced the levels of glutathione and the activity of total antioxidant capacity enzyme in serum and hepatopancreas, while concurrently upregulating the level of malondialdehyde (MDA)(P < 0.05). Conversely, oral intake of sea buckthorn powder and flavonoids increased antioxidant enzyme activity and decreased MDA levels. In terms of antioxidant molecular indicators, sea buckthorn powder and sea buckthorn flavonoids significantly increased the mRNA levels of nuclear factor NF-E2-related factor (nrf2) in the hepatopancreas and muscle. Meanwhile, mRNA expression levels of downstream antioxidant-related genes (gr, cat, gpx, and sod) regulated by Nrf2 were also upregulated. In the immune aspects, the mRNA expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (il-6), interleukin-1β (il-1β) and nuclear factor-κB (nf-κb), were reduced but the expressions of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as growth factor-β (tgf-β) and interleukin-10 (il-10), were enhanced in the head kidney and spleen tissues after oral administration with sea buckthorn. In terms of muscle fatty acid composition, the ratio of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)/n-6 PUFA was notably higher after administering sea buckthorn flavonoids than that of the glucose group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that oral administration of sea buckthorn powder and sea buckthorn flavonoids significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity and immune response and improved the muscle fatty acid compositions in common carp, and also mitigated the adverse effects of glucose treatment to a certain extent. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of Dietary Bio-Fermented Selenium Supplementation on Growth, Immune Performance, and Intestinal Microflora of Chinese Mitten Crabs, Eriocheir sinensis

Selenium is a vital trace mineral that is crucial for maintaining regular biological processes in aquatic animals. In this study, a four-week dietary trial was carried out to assess the impact of bio-fermented selenium (Bio-Se) on the growth and immune response of Chinese mitten crabs, Eriocheir sinensis. The crabs were randomly allocated to five dietary treatment groups, each receiving a different dose of Bio-Se. The doses included 0, 0.3, 0.6, 1.5, and 3.0 mg/kg and were accurately measured in basal diet formulations. The results showed the weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate (SR) in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio-Se group were the highest, and 3.0 mg/kg of Bio-Se has an inhibitory effect on the WGR, SGR, and SR. The activities of the immune enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and acid phosphatase (ACP), of the hepatopancreas were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio-Se group, while they decreased (p < 0.05) in the 3.0 mg/kg feeding group compared to the 0 mg/kg feeding group. The concentration of maleic dialdehyde (MDA) exhibited the opposite pattern. Similarly, the mRNA expression levels of antimicrobial peptides (ALF-1, Crus-1, and LYS), ERK, and Relish genes were also observed to be the highest in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio-Se group compared with the other groups. Furthermore, the administration of 1.5 mg/kg of Bio-Se resulted in an increase in the thickness of the intestinal plica and mucosal layer, as well as in alterations in the intestinal microbial profile and bacterial diversity compared to the dose of 0 mg/kg of Bio-Se. Notably, the population of the beneficial bacterial phylum Fusobacteria was increased after crabs were fed the 1.5 mg/kg Bio-Se diet. In conclusion, the oral administration of 1.5 mg/kg of Bio-Se improved the growth efficiency, antioxidant capabilities, immunity, and intestinal health of E. sinensis. Through a broken-line analysis of the WGR against dietary Bio-Se levels, optimal dietary Bio-Se levels were determined to be 1.1 mg/kg. These findings contribute valuable insights to the understanding of crab cultivation and nutrition.

The relationship between oxidative stress markers and temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Oxidative stress has a role in many pathologic conditions, including oral diseases and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) pathophysiology. This study compared the selected oxidative biomarkers' levels in TMD patients and healthy controls in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Materials and Methods

Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase were systematically searched for English articles up to October 2022 using MeSH and free keywords. Joanna Briggs Institute checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Differences between biomarker levels in TMD patients were compared to the control group.

Results

Ten case-control studies were included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria with a total of 659 patients: 314 with TMD and 345 healthy controls. The studies investigated 15 markers, including total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status, and malondialdehyde (MDA). There was a significant difference in the salivary MDA of patients with TMD in comparison with healthy people; standard mean difference = 3.22 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.28-6.16); I 2 = 96.0%). The Antioxidant status in serum was significantly lower in patients with TMD in comparison with healthy people; weighted mean difference = -0.52 (95% CI: -0.90 to -0.14; I 2 = 97.0%). The result of TOS was inconclusive.

Conclusion

Salivary MDA and serum total antioxidative status measurements may be used as a biomarker for diagnosing TMD. Due to the lack of sufficient evidence, it is not possible to express a definite relation between the amount and type of marker and TMD diagnosis, which suggests that more case-control studies with larger sample sizes are required.

Supplementation of vitamin E as an addition to a commercial renal diet does not prolong survival of cats with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to investigate the effect of vitamin E supplementation as an addition to a commercial renal diet on survival time of cats with different stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In addition, we were interested whether vitamin E supplementation affects selected oxidative stress and clinical parameters. Thirty-four cats with CKD and 38 healthy cats were included in the study. Cats with CKD were classified according to the IRIS Guidelines; seven in IRIS stage 1, 15 in IRIS stage 2, five in IRIS stage 3 and seven in IRIS stage 4. Cats with CKD were treated according to IRIS Guidelines. Cats with CKD were randomly assigned to receive vitamin E (100 IU/cat/day) or placebo (mineral oil) for 24 weeks in addition to standard therapy. Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PC) concentrations, DNA damage of peripheral lymphocytes and plasma vitamin E concentrations were measured at baseline and four, eight, 16 and 24 weeks thereafter. Routine laboratory analyses and assessment of clinical signs were performed at each visit.

RESULTS

Vitamin E supplementation had no effect on the survival time and did not reduce the severity of clinical signs. Before vitamin E supplementation, no significant differences in vitamin E, MDA and PC concentrations were found between healthy and CKD cats. However, plasma MDA concentration was statistically significantly higher (p = 0.043) in cats with early CKD (IRIS stages 1 and 2) than in cats with advanced CKD (IRIS stages 3 and 4). Additionally, DNA damage was statistically significantly higher in healthy cats (p ≤ 0.001) than in CKD cats. Plasma vitamin E concentrations increased statistically significantly in the vitamin E group compared to the placebo group four (p = 0.013) and eight (p = 0.017) weeks after the start of vitamin E supplementation. During the study and after 24 weeks of vitamin E supplementation, plasma MDA and PC concentrations and DNA damage remained similar to pre-supplementation levels in both the placebo and vitamin E groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin E supplementation as an addition to standard therapy does not prolong survival in feline CKD.

Modulation of the Nrf-2 and HO-1 signalling axis is associated with Betaine's abatement of fluoride-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats

Sodium fluoride (NaF) ingestion has several detrimental effects in humans and rodents. NaF mechanisms of toxicity include perturbation of intracellular redox homeostasis and apoptosis. Betaine (BET) is a modified amino acid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. This study investigates BET's effect on NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats. Experimental rats (n = 30) were randomly assigned to groups (n = 6) and treated by gavage for 28 days. Group I (2 mL of distilled water), Group II (NaF: 9 mg/kg) alone, Group III: (BET: 100 mg/kg), Group IV: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 1: 50 mg/kg), and Group V: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 2: 100 mg/kg). Our findings revealed significantly (p < 0.05) increased hepatic transaminase activities alongside creatinine and urea levels following NaF-alone treatment in addition to increased oxidative status, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, decreased superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and total sulfhydryl groups. The reduced levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 and the activities of heme oxygenase-1, thioredoxin, and thioredoxin reductase in NaF-alone treated rats equally compromised cellular molecular responses to oxidative stress. Also, NaF increased (p < 0.05) hepatorenal inflammatory biomarkers-nitric oxide, interleukin-10, myeloperoxidase, and xanthine oxidase. Furthermore, caspase-3 and caspase-9 were increased (p < 0.05) in rats treated with NaF alone. Contrastingly, BET was observed to alleviate the harmful effects of NaF. Treatment with BET mitigated NaF-induced oxido-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in the experimental rat's hepatorenal system. The study demonstrates the potential of BET to abate NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicity.

Modulation of growth performance, feed utilization, and physiological traits in redbelly Tilapia (Tilapia zillii) through environmental and sex-based interactions

This study explored the combined influence of tank color, stocking density, and gender on Tilapia zillii's performance and well-being. In this 120-day trial, 320 T. zillii, each initially weighing 10.0 ± 0.1 g/fish, were distributed among 24 tanks. The experiment included eight distinct treatment combinations, varying tank color (blue and green), stocking density (10 and 30 fish/m3) and sex (monosexual and mixed). The results showed that blue tanks improved specific growth rate and condition factor, while green tanks were better for feed utilization. Density at 30 fish/m3 showed the highest mean values of final body weight and total length, weight gain (WG), and gain length. Mono-sex outperformed mixed-sex ones in WG and daily growth. Interactions between color, density and sex were significant, affecting growth and feed utilization. Green tanks were best for protein profiles, while blue tanks excelled in glucose. A density of 10 fish/m3 yielded the highest protein profiles, and mono-sex fish had higher protein profiles. For lipid profiles, green tanks were superior, and density affected lipid profiles. Mixed-sex populations were best for certain lipid profile parameters. Interactions between these factors also played a significant role, making the biochemical profiles of T. zillii a complex interplay of various factors. The results explored that tank color, fish density and sex influence the activity of nonspecific immune enzymes in the liver of T. zillii. Blue tanks and lower fish density led to higher nonspecific immune enzymes, while mono-sex fish exhibited more significant nonspecific immune enzymes. Complex interactions between these factors also influenced nonspecific immune enzyme activities. Blue tanks increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while green tanks raised glutathione S-transferases (GST) and catalase (CAT) levels. Lower fish density led to higher MDA, while higher density increased GST and CAT. Mono-sex fish had more MDA and GST, while mixed-sex fish showed greater CAT levels. Complex interactions among these factors affected the antioxidant levels in T. zillii. In summary, our study suggests that rearing T. zillii in green tanks at higher densities (30 fish/m3) and in mono-sex conditions yields the best results in terms of growth and overall performance.

MANIPULATING MITOCHONDRIAL REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES ALTERS SURVIVAL IN UNEXPECTED WAYS IN A DROSOPHILA MODEL OF NEURODEGENERATION

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with aging and neurodegeneration, but the significance of this association remains obscure. Here, using a Drosophila model of age-related neurodegeneration, we probe this relationship in the pathologically relevant tissue, the brain, by quantifying three specific mitochondrial ROS and manipulating these redox species pharmacologically. Our goal is to ask whether pathology-associated changes in redox state are detrimental for survival, whether they may be beneficial responses, or whether they are simply covariates of pathology that do not alter viability. We find, surprisingly, that increasing mitochondrial H2O2 correlates with improved survival. We also find evidence that drugs that alter the mitochondrial glutathione redox potential modulate survival primarily through the compensatory effects they induce rather than through their direct effects on the final mitochondrial glutathione redox potential per se. We also find that the response to treatment with a redox-altering drug varies dramatically depending on the age at which the drug is administered, the duration of the treatment, and the genotype of the individual receiving the drug. These data have important implications for the design and interpretation of studies investigating the effect of redox state on health and disease as well as on efforts to modify the redox state to achieve therapeutic goals.

From biomarkers to community composition: Negative effects of UV/chlorine-treated reclaimed urban wastewater on freshwater biota

The use of urban wastewater reclaimed water has recently increased across the globe to restore stream environmental flows and mitigate the effects of water scarcity. Reclaimed water is disinfected using different treatments, but their effects into the receiving rivers are little studied. Physiological bioassays and biomarkers can detect sub-lethal effects on target species, but do not provide information on changes in community structure. In contrast, official monitoring programs use community structure information but often at coarse taxonomic resolution level that may fail to detect species level impacts. Here, we combined commonly used biomonitoring approaches from organism physiology to community species composition to scan a broad range of effects of disinfection of reclaimed water by UV-light only and both UV/chlorine on the biota. We (1) performed bioassays in one laboratory species (water flea Daphnia magna) and measured biomarkers in two wild species (caddisfly Hydropsyche exocellata and the barbel Luciobarbus graellsii), (2) calculated standard indices of biotic quality (IBQ) for diatoms, benthic macroinvertebrates, and fishes, and (3) analysed community species composition of eukaryotes determined by Cytochrome Oxidase C subunit I (cox1) metabarcoding. Only the UV/chlorine treatment caused significant changes in feeding rates of D. magna and reduced antioxidant defenses, increased anaerobic metabolism and altered the levels of lipid peroxidiation in H. exocellata. However, inputs of reclaimed water were significantly associated with a greater proportion of circulating neutrophils and LG-PAS cells in L. graellsii. Despite IBQ did not discriminate between the two water treatments, metabarcoding data detected community composition changes upon exposure to UV/chlorine reclaimed water. Overall, despite the effects of UV/chlorine-treated water were transient, our study suggests that UV-light treated is less harmful for freshwater biota than UV/chlorine-treated reclaimed water, but those effects depend of the organizational level.

Effects of the tetravanadate [V4O12]4- anion on the structural, magnetic, and biological properties of copper/phenanthroline complexes

The aim to access linked tetravanadate [V4O12]4- anion with mixed copper(II) complexes, using α-amino acids and phenanthroline-derived ligands, resulted in the formation of four copper(II) complexes [Cu(dmb)(Gly)(OH2)]2[Cu(dmb)(Gly)]2[V4O12]·9H2O (1) [Cu(dmb)(Lys)]2[V4O12]·8H2O (2), [Cu(dmp)2][V4O12]·C2H5OH·11H2O (3), and [Cu(dmp)(Gly)Cl]·2H2O (4), where dmb = 4,4'-dimethioxy-2,2'-bipyridine; Gly = glycine; Lys = lysine; and dmp = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline. The [V4O12]4- anion is functionalized with mixed copper(II) units in 1 and 2; while in 3, it acts as a counterion of two [Cu(dmp)]2+ units. Compound 4 crystallized as a unit that did not incorporate the vanadium cluster. All compounds present magnetic couplings arising from Cu⋯O/Cu⋯Cu bridges. Stability studies of water-soluble 3 and 4 by UV-Vis spectroscopy in cell culture medium confirmed the robustness of 3, while 4 appears to undergo ligand scrambling over time, resulting partially in the stable species [Cu(dmp)2]+ that was also identified by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry at m/z = 479. The in vitro cytotoxicity activity of 3 and 4 was determined in six cancer cell lines; the healthy cell line COS-7 was also included for comparative purposes. MCF-7 cells were more sensitive to compound 3 with an IC50 value of 12 ± 1.2 nmol. The tested compounds did not show lipid peroxidation in the TBARS assay, ruling out a mechanism of action via reactive oxygen species formation. Both compounds inhibited cell migration at 5 µM in wound-healing assays using MCF-7, PC-3, and SKLU-1 cell lines, opening a new window to study the anti-metastatic effect of mixed vanadium-copper(II) systems.

Growth, Biochemical Characteristics, Flesh Quality, and Gut Microbiota of the Pacific White Shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) Fed a Defatted Superworm (Zophobas atratus) Larvae Meal

This study evaluated the effects of defatted superworm (Zophobas atratus) larvae meal (DBWLM) as an alternative protein ingredient for juvenile Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei). Six isonitrogenous and isolipidic experimental diets were characterized by replacing 0%, 15%, 30%, 45%, 60%, and 75% fish meal (DBWLM0, DBWLM15, DBWLM30, DBWLM45, DBWLM60, and DBWLM75, respectively) with DBWLM on a w/w basis and feeding them to juvenile shrimp (0.34 ± 0.04 g) for 56 days. The results showed that the replacement of up to 75% fish meal by DBWLM had no negative effect on the growth performance of P. vannamei. The survival of shrimp in the DBWLM30 group was the highest, and the weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, condition factor, and apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter in the DBWLM15 group were the highest. The substitution of DBWLM for fish meal significantly increased the elasticity of flesh, improved the total content of umami amino acids in flesh (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, and alanine), promoted lipid metabolism in shrimp, and reduced serum lipid levels. With the increase in DBWLM level, serum acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase activity, and intestinal inflammatory gene expression (IGF-1 and IL-6) were inhibited, malondialdehyde content decreased, and total antioxidant capacity level and superoxide dismutase activity increased significantly. Histological sections of the hepatopancreas showed that when 60% or more fish meal was replaced, the hepatopancreas atrophied and had irregular lumen distortion, but the cell membrane was not damaged. Microbiome analysis showed that the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes increased and the abundance of Proteobacteria decreased in the DBWLM replacement group, and it was rich in "metabolism"-related functional pathways. It is worth mentioning that the expression of amino-acid-related enzymes was upregulated in the DBWLM15 and DBWLM30 groups, and the DBWLM75 group inhibited the biosynthesis of steroids and hormones. To conclude, the replacement of 15%-45% fish meal with DBWLM can result in better growth and immune status, improved meat elasticity, and reduced inflammation in P. vannamei. However, it is recommended that the replacement level should not exceed 60%, otherwise it will cause atrophy of hepatopancreas cells.

Anti-obesity mechanism of Ganpu tea revealed by microbiome, metabolome and transcriptome analyses

In this study, the anti-obesity mechanism of Ganpu tea (GPT) from the perspectives of microbiome, metabolome and transcriptome was investigated. GPT significantly reduced the high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced levels of inflammatory cytokines and the expansion of lipid droplets and white adipose tissue. GPT also improved HFD-induced gut microbiome imbalance by significantly reducing the proportion of Firmicutes to Bacteroidota. Metabolomic data showed that HFD-induced metabolic disorder was regulated by GPT and probably characterised by being related to 4-aminobutyraldehyde and 5-acetylamino-6-amino-3-methyluracil. Transcriptome showed that the improvement of obesity was mainly related to the IL-17 signaling pathway and the metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that gut microbiota were significantly correlated with inflammatory factors, genes and metabolites. Metabolome-transcriptome analysis showed that GPT reversed obesity mainly through the carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism.Collectively, GPT may be used as a health drink to prevent or treat obesity.

Oxidative Stress Is a Concept, Not an Indication for Selective Antioxidant Treatment

The steady-state redox status is physiologically important and therefore homeostatically maintained. Changes in the status result in signaling (eustress) or oxidative damage (distress). Oxidative stress (OS) is a hard-to-quantitate term that can be estimated only based on different biomarkers. Clinical application of OS, particularly for selective antioxidant treatment of people under oxidative stress, requires quantitative evaluation and is limited by the lack of universal biomarkers to describe it. Furthermore, different antioxidants have different effects on the redox state. Hence, as long as we do not have the possibility to determine and quantify OS, therapeutic interventions by the "identify-and-treat" approach cannot be assessed and are, therefore, not likely to be the basis for selective preventive measures against oxidative damage.

Evaluation of Cadmium or Lead Exposure with Nannochloropsis oculata Mitigation on Productive Performance, Biochemical, and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Barki Rams

This study was designed to determine the lead or cadmium exposure of Barki rams and the beneficial role of Nannochlorposis oculata (N. oculata) 4% as a feed supplement, as well as its mitigating role against these elements' impacts concerning performance, biochemical markers of liver enzymes and kidney function, thyroid hormone activity, and oxidative stress markers. Six groups of 36 Barki rams (33.63 ± 1.29 kg) were divided into G1: which served as control; G2: was given 4% dietary N. oculata; G3: was given oral 1 mg/kg cadmium chloride; G4: was given 5 mg/kg/day lead acetate; G5: was given oral 1 mg/kg cadmium chloride and 4% dietary N. oculata, and G6: was given oral 5 mg/kg/day lead acetate and 4% dietary N. oculata; and treatments were continued for 60 days. Cadmium and lead-exposed groups exhibited lower and weaker weight gain as well as feed conversion ratio, respectively, than the control and other groups. Additionally, levels of T3, T4, total proteins, albumin, and glutathione (GSH) were significantly reduced in both G3 and G4 compared to control. However, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, total cholesterol, triglycerides, protein carbonyl content (PCC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly increased (P ≤ 0.05) in cadmium and lead-exposed groups. Dietary N. oculata (4%) improves serum proteins, creatinine, urea, T4, and oxidative stress indicators as compared to the control group. Finally, 4% dietary N. oculata greatly enhances the investigated parameters in terms of performance, thyroid hormones, serum biochemical, and antioxidant activity and may assist in reducing the endocrine disrupting effects of Pb and Cd.

Biological Consequences of Vanadium Effects on Formation of Reactive Oxygen Species and Lipid Peroxidation

Lipid peroxidation (LPO), a process that affects human health, can be induced by exposure to vanadium salts and compounds. LPO is often exacerbated by oxidation stress, with some forms of vanadium providing protective effects. The LPO reaction involves the oxidation of the alkene bonds, primarily in polyunsaturated fatty acids, in a chain reaction to form radical and reactive oxygen species (ROS). LPO reactions typically affect cellular membranes through direct effects on membrane structure and function as well as impacting other cellular functions due to increases in ROS. Although LPO effects on mitochondrial function have been studied in detail, other cellular components and organelles are affected. Because vanadium salts and complexes can induce ROS formation both directly and indirectly, the study of LPO arising from increased ROS should include investigations of both processes. This is made more challenging by the range of vanadium species that exist under physiological conditions and the diverse effects of these species. Thus, complex vanadium chemistry requires speciation studies of vanadium to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of the various species that are present during vanadium exposure. Undoubtedly, speciation is important in assessing how vanadium exerts effects in biological systems and is likely the underlying cause for some of the beneficial effects reported in cancerous, diabetic, neurodegenerative conditions and other diseased tissues impacted by LPO processes. Speciation of vanadium, together with investigations of ROS and LPO, should be considered in future biological studies evaluating vanadium effects on the formation of ROS and on LPO in cells, tissues, and organisms as discussed in this review.

Co-exposure to aflatoxin B1 and therapeutic coartem worsens hepatic and renal function through enhanced oxido-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in rats

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁) is a mycotoxin synthesised as a secondary metabolite by members of the Aspergillus species contaminating agricultural produce. Aspergillus species thrive in tropical climes, endemic to malaria. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) effectively treat and prevent malaria recrudescence; Coartem (COA) is an ACT whose toxicity is evident. Although there are scanty studies on COA toxicity, the scientific literature is replete on AFB₁ toxic effects -including carcinogenicity. The current research investigates AFB₁ and COA toxicity in experimental Wistar rats' hepatorenal systems. Thirty albino rats were randomly grouped into five cohorts (n = 6) and treated as follows: Group I: Untreated control (2 mL/kg of corn oil); group II: AFB₁ alone (70 μg/kg); group III: COA alone (5 mg/kg); group IV: COA and a low dose of AFB1₁ (5 mg/kg & 35 μg/kg); while Group V: COA and a high dose AFB1₂ (5 mg/kg & 70 μg/kg) by gavage. Our results show that exposure to AFB₁ and COA significantly (p < 0.05) reduced superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase activities, besides reduced glutathione and total sulfhydryl groups level. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, lipid peroxidation, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, nitric oxide, xanthine oxidase, and myeloperoxidase levels were increased (p < 0.05) in rats co-treated with COA and AFB1. Cell death was aggravated in COA and AFB1 groups, exemplified by increased Caspase-3 and 9 activities and alterations in the typical histological features of experimental rats' livers and kidneys. Finally, rats co-treated with AFB₁ and COA experienced increased hepatorenal dysregulation, oxidative and inflammatory tissue damage, and apoptotic cell death. All the observed systemic perturbations occurred dose-dependently. It is crucial, therefore, to prevent AFB₁ dietary contaminations during COA therapeutic regimen due to increased pathophysiological damage exerted on experimental rat liver and kidneys, as evidenced in this study.

Dietary supplementations modulate the physiological parameters, fatty acids profile and the growth of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus)

An optimal diet is an important factor for the proper growth and health of crustaceans. However, the regulation of antioxidant activity and non-specific immunity related to the consumption of feed additives has not been studied in RC-crayfish. Triplicate groups of 20 crayfish/tank (36.72 ± 0.70 g) fed with a basal diet and sixteen experimental diets that contained five feed additives with four grade levels (40, 160, 240 and 320 mg/kg vitamin E, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g/kg nucleotides, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g/kg Haematococcus pluvialis, 5, 10, 15 and 20 g/kg arachidonic acid and 2.5, 5, 10 and 15 g/kg yeast extract) on physiological parameters, fatty acids profile and growth of Cherax quadricarinatus for a period of 70 days by using orthogonal array method (L16 4⁵ ). The results showed that the antioxidants activity in the haemolymph and hepatopancreas were both higher in crayfish fed with diets NO. 9 to 12 than others. Also, all the diets except diets NO. 13 to 16 showed lower free radicals contents than the control group. Similarly, significantly higher non-specific immune parameters were observed in the hepatopancreas of crayfish supplementations than those fed a control diet. Biochemical parameters related to protein profile in haemolymph increased in diets NO. 9 to 12 and then decreased in control and diets NO. 13 to 16, while the highest biochemical parameters related to lipid profile except HDL-c contents in haemolymph were observed in crayfish fed the control diet. Fatty acid composition in the hepatopancreas, muscle and ovary of RC-crayfish was significantly influenced by using the combination of Vit E, NT, H. pluvialis and YP compared to the control group. Compared to all treatments, RC-crayfish fed with diets NO. 2 and 12 had significantly stimulated higher growth performance and feed utilisation. Overall, our results suggest that diets supplemented with Vit E level of 240 mg/kg, in combination with 8 g/kg NT, 4 g/kg, H. pluvialis, 5 g/kg ARA and 10 g/kg YP are the promising treatments to increase antioxidants activity, non-specific immune response, fatty acids composition and growth of RC-crayfish. However, high dietary supplementations level can reduce antioxidants activity, immunity and inhibit growth.

Characterization of zearalenone-induced hepatotoxicity and its mechanisms by transcriptomics in zebrafish model

Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium fungi, which contaminates crop and cereal products worldwide. It is widely distributed and can be transported from agricultural fields to the aquatic environment via soil run-off. Zearalenone exposure can cause serious health problems to humans and animals, including estrogenic, immunotoxic, and xenogenic effects. Though its hepatotoxicity has been reported by few studies, the underlying mechanisms are yet to be investigated. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the hepatotoxic effects of zearalenone and its molecular mechanism in the zebrafish model system. First, we found zearalenone exposure can cause liver injury, as evidenced by reduced liver size, decreased liver-specific fluorescence, increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity, delayed yolk sac absorption and lipid accumulation. Then, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed using dissected zebrafish fry liver, which found genes involved in oxidation and reduction were significantly enriched. Quantitative real-time PCR further confirmed the dysregulated expression of several antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, lipid peroxidation was proved by increased malondialdehyde (MDA) production and gene expression at the mRNA level. In contrast to the previous study, apoptosis was likely decreased in response to zearalenone exposure. Last, glucuronidation and amino acid metabolism were also disrupted by zearalenone. Our results revealed the complex mechanism of zearalenone-induced hepatotoxicity, which is a valuable contribution to a more comprehensive understanding of the toxicity of zearalenone.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Acute Ischemic Stroke-Related Thrombosis

Acute ischemic stroke is a serious life-threatening disease that affects almost 600 million people each year throughout the world with a mortality of more than 10%, while two-thirds of survivors remain disabled. However, the available treatments for ischemic stroke are still limited to thrombolysis and/or mechanical thrombectomy, and there is an urgent need for developing new therapeutic target. Recently, intravascular oxidative stress, derived from endothelial cells, platelets, and leukocytes, has been found to be tightly associated with stroke-related thrombosis. It not only promotes primary thrombus formation by damaging endothelial cells and platelets but also affects thrombus maturation and stability by modifying fibrin components. Thus, oxidative stress is expected to be a novel target for the prevention and treatment of ischemic stroke. In this review, we first discuss the mechanisms by which oxidative stress promotes stroke-related thrombosis, then summarize the oxidative stress biomarkers of stroke-related thrombosis, and finally put forward an antithrombotic therapy targeting oxidative stress in ischemic stroke.

Changes in antioxidant enzyme levels following capture in juvenile American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are tissue dependent

Many parameters used to investigate stress in vertebrates are temporally sensitive. The act of capture and sampling can influence them, hindering their functionality for evaluating the effects of stressors. Consequently, the investigation and subsequent incorporation of less time sensitive parameters are necessary to better evaluate stressors affecting vertebrates. In this study, we investigated how capture stress and handling associated with sampling influences antioxidant status in American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis, Daudin, 1802; hereafter Alligator), long-lived, top-trophic carnivores found in the southeastern United States, by measuring levels of two antioxidant enzymes in destructive (brain and pancreas) and nondestructive (tail scutes) tissues: superoxide-dismutase-1 (SOD1) and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1). Capture stress had no effect on pancreatic SOD1 and no effect on brain and pancreatic GPX1 (all p > 0.05). However, brain SOD1, scute SOD1, and scute GPX1 were all impacted by capture stress. These disparate results illustrate that the influence of capture stress on antioxidant enzymes in Alligators is tissue and marker dependent, necessitating further investigation. Our results provide a firm foundation to further investigate oxidative status in crocodilians.

Chitosan Oligosaccharides Alleviate H2O2-stimulated Granulosa Cell Damage via HIF-1α Signaling Pathway

Oocyte maturation disorder and decreased quality are the main causes of infertility in women, and granulosa cells (GCs) provide the only microenvironment for oocyte maturation through autocrine and paracrine signaling by steroid hormones and growth factors. However, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress caused by ovarian hypoxia are the largest contributors to ovarian aging and GC dysfunction. Therefore, the amelioration of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress is expected to be a pivotal method to improve GC function and oocyte quality. In this study, we detected the protective effect of chitosan oligosaccharides (COS), on hydrogen peroxide- (H₂O₂-) stimulated oxidative damage in a human ovarian granulosa cell line (KGN). COS significantly increased cell viability, mitochondrial function, and the cellular glutathione (GSH) content and reduced apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and the levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF) in H₂O₂-stimulated KGN cells. COS treatment significantly increased levels of the TGF-β1 and IL-10 proteins and decreased levels of the IL-6 protein. Compared with H₂O₂-stimulated KGN cells, COS significantly increased the levels of E₂ and P₄ and decreased SA-β-gal protein expression. Furthermore, COS caused significant inactivation of the HIF-1α-VEGF pathway in H₂O₂-stimulated KGN cells. Moreover, inhibition of this pathway enhanced the inhibitory effects of COS on H₂O₂-stimulated oxidative injury and apoptosis in GCs. Thus, COS protected GCs from H₂O₂-stimulated oxidative damage and apoptosis by inactivating the HIF-1α-VEGF signaling pathway. In the future, COS might represent a therapeutic approach for ameliorating disrupted follicle development.

The Effect of Two Acute Bouts of Exercise on Oxidative Stress, Hematological, and Biochemical Parameters, and Rectal Temperature in Trained Canicross Dogs

Canicross is a sport discipline that connects human and canine athletes in running. Changes in physiological, hematological, and biochemical parameters, and exercise-induced oxidative stress have not been thoroughly characterized in canicross dogs. The aim of our study was the assessment of the health status of trained canicross dogs that were subjected to two acute bouts of exercise with their owners during the training season. Health status was assessed by measuring the rectal temperature, hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as blood oxidative stress parameters (plasma malondialdehyde, lipid peroxidation marker; whole blood glutathione peroxidase and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase1, antioxidant enzymes) before and during a two-day canicross training session and after a 24-h rest period. Seven trained canicross dogs (three females/four males) aged 12–120 months were included in the study. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after the first acute bout of exercise (day 1), after the second acute bout of exercise (day 2), and after 24 h of rest (day 3). Rectal temperature was measured at the same time as blood sample collection. The majority of hematological and biochemical parameters remained within reference ranges at all sampling times. Rectal temperature was significantly higher after training on days 1 and 2 compared to resting temperature on day 3. Hematological parameters did not change significantly; however, there were significant differences in urea, creatinine, creatine kinase, and triglycerides between specific sampling times. Despite significant changes, these biochemical parameters remained within reference ranges. Significant changes in biochemical parameters seem to reflect the dogs' physiological response to each acute bout of exercise, considering all biochemical parameters and rectal temperature returned to pre-exercise values after a 24-h rest period (day 3). No significant differences in oxidative stress parameters were found between any sampling times. Relatively high erythrocyte superoxide dismutase1 activity at all sampling times may indicate that the canicross dogs are adapted to training by an increased expression of antioxidant enzymes. Based on our results, we can conclude that the trained canicross dogs included in our study were healthy, in good physical condition, and fit for the two acute bouts of field exercise.

Protective effects of different concentrations of selenium nanoparticles on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) primary hepatocytes under heat stress

Heat stress leads to altered expression of associated heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are critical molecular chaperones related to cellular function in living organisms. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), a nanocomposite form of Se, have a protective effect against heat stress-induced cellular damage. In this study, primary rainbow trout hepatocytes were isolated to identify the protective function of SeNPs in rainbow trout hepatocytes. Experiments were divided into five groups and SeNPs were added at concentrations of 0, 2.0, 3.0, 5.0 and 8.0 μg/mL and incubated at 18 ℃ for 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h respectively. Hepatocyte viability, GSH-Px and SOD activity were enhanced and MDA content was reduced following the addition of SeNPs. Expression of GSH-P1 and genes related to HSPs (including HSP70a, HSP60, HSP90β, HSP10 and HSP47) were significantly increased and the optimal concentration of SeNPs for adding to hepatocytes was identified as 5.0 µg/mL. Adding 5.0 µg/mL SeNPs following heat stress (24 ℃) increased hepatocyte viability, GSH-Px and SOD activity, while MDA levels first decreased and then increased. Expression of GSH-P1 and genes related to HSPs (including HSP70a, HSP60, HSP90β, HSP10 and HSP47) were significantly higher than controls. In summary, SeNPs and slight heat stress synergistically enhanced the expression of GSH-P1 and HSPs and protected hepatocytes from heat stress damage, suggesting that SeNPs is a potential hepatocyte protective therapeutic agent.

Do low molecular weight antioxidants contribute to the Protection against oxidative damage? The interrelation between oxidative stress and low molecular weight antioxidants based on data from the MARK-AGE study

A redox steady state is important in maintaining vital cellular functions and is therefore homeostatically controlled by a number of antioxidative agents, the most important of which are enzymes. Oxidative Stress (OS) is associated with (or/and caused by) excessive production of damaging reactive oxygen and/or nitrogen species (ROS, RNS), which play a role in many pathologies. Because OS is a risk factor for many diseases, much effort (and money) is devoted to early diagnosis and treatment of OS. The desired benefit of the "identify (OS) and treat (by low molecular weight antioxidants, LMWA)" approach is to enable selective treatment of patients under OS. The present work aims at gaining understanding of the benefit of the antioxidants based on interrelationship between the concentration of different OS biomarkers and LMWA. Both the concentrations of a variety of biomarkers and of LMWA were previously determined and some analyses have been published by the MARK-AGE team. For the sake of simplicity, we assume that the concentration of an OS biomarker is a linear function of the concentration of a LMWA (if the association is due to causal relationship). A negative slope of this dependence (and sign of the correlation coefficient) can be intuitively expected for an antioxidant, a positive slope indicates that the LMWA is pro-oxidative, whereas extrapolation of the OS biomarker to [LMWA] = 0 is an approximation of the concentration of the OS biomarker in the absence of the LMWA. Using this strategy, we studied the effects of 12 LMWA (including tocopherols, carotenoids and ascorbic acid) on the OS status, as observed with 8 biomarkers of oxidative damage (including malondialdehyde, protein carbonyls, 3-nitrotyrosine). The results of this communication show that in a cross-sectional study the LMWA contribute little to the redox state and that different "antioxidants" are very different, so that single LMWA treatment of OS is not scientifically justified assuming our simple model. In view of the difficulty of quantitating the OS and the very different effects of various LMWA, the use of the "identify and treat" approach is questionable.

A systematic review of the relationship between night shift work and oxidative stress

Night shift workers make up an essential part of the modern workforce. However, night shift workers have higher incidences of late in life diseases and earlier mortality. Night shift workers experience circadian rhythm disruption due to working overnight. Sleep disruption is thought to increase oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance of excess pro-oxidative factors and reactive oxygen species over anti-oxidative activity. Oxidative stress can damage cells, proteins and DNA and can eventually lead to varied chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's and dementia. This review aimed to understand whether night shift workers were at greater risk of oxidative stress. Twelve correlational studies published in 2001-2019 were included in the review that measured the levels of oxidative stress indicators from working a single night shift as well as comparisons between those who regularly work night shifts and only day shifts. All studies had evidence to support the relationship between working night shifts and increased oxidative stress indicators. Specifically, night shift work was associated with increased DNA damage, reduced DNA repair capacity, increased lipid peroxidation, higher levels of reactive oxygen species, and to a lesser extent, a reduction in antioxidant defence. These results suggest a potential link between circadian rhythm disruption in night shift workers with oxidative stress and therefore disease. However, this review is limited by having no longitudinal or experimental studies. Further research is required to infer causality. This further research is recommended to promote the long-term health of night shift workers.

Traditional application and modern pharmacological research of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv

As a Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. has been used for the treatment of various diseases since ancient times, involving lumbar pain, knee pain, osteoporosis, hepatoprotection, paralysis, intestinal haemorrhoids, vaginal bleeding, abortion, spermatorrhoea, foot fungus, anti-aging etc. With the developing discovery of E. ulmoides extracts and its active components in various pharmacological activities, E. ulmoides has gained more and more attention. Up to now, E. ulmoides has been revealed to show remarkable therapeutic effects on hypertension, hyperglycemia, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, sexual dysfunction. E. ulmoides has also been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, anti-cancer and immunoregulation activities etc. Along these lines, this review summarizes the traditional application and modern pharmacological research of E. ulmoides, providing novel insights of E. ulmoides in the treatment of various diseases.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with κ-Selenocarrageenan on the Selenium Accumulation and Intestinal Microbiota of the Sea Cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus

A 30-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of κ-selenocarrageenan on the growth performance, selenium accumulation, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota of sea cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus, with different sizes (70 g ± 10 g and 100 g ± 10 g). Sea cucumbers of each size were randomly assigned into two groups; a diet without supplemented κ-selenocarrageenan was referred to as a control diet, or supplemented with κ-selenocarrageenan at selenium (Se) levels of 2.0 μg/g. Selenium accumulation in the body wall and intestine was determined on days 0, 10, 20, and 30. The survival rate (SR) was significantly higher in the κ-selenocarrageenan-treated group (Se group) than in the control group. After 30 days of feeding, κ-selenocarrageenan supplementation increased the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in A. japonicus. Furthermore, the intestinal microbiota diversity of sea cucumbers was increased by dietary supplementation with κ-selenocarrageenan and the relative abundances of some probiotics (such as Sulfitobacter and Rhodobacteraceae) were also increased. It is suggested that κ-selenocarrageenan could increase the antioxidant capacity and modulate the intestinal microbiota of sea cucumbers A. japonicus. Further researches will be conducted for its optimal administration concentrations in vivo.

Vitamin C-Protective Role in Oxidative Stress Conditions Induced in Human Normal Colon Cells by Label-Free Raman Spectroscopy and Imaging

Colorectal cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Conventional diagnostics methods of colorectal cancer can detect it at an advanced stage. Spectroscopic methods, including Raman spectroscopy and imaging, are becoming more and more popular in medical applications, and allow fast, precise, and unambiguous differentiation of healthy and cancerous samples. The most important advantage of Raman spectroscopy is the ability to identify biomarkers that help in the differentiation of healthy and cancerous cells based on biochemistry of sample and spectra typical for lipids, proteins, and DNA. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biochemical and structural features of human colon cell lines based on Raman spectroscopy and imaging: normal cells CCD-18 Co, normal cells CCD-18 Co under oxidative stress conditions, and normal cells CCD-18 Co at first treated by using tert-Butyl hydroperoxide and then supplemented by vitamin C in high concentration to show the protective role of vitamin C in micromolar concentrations against ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). Raman data obtained for normal cells injured by ROS were compared with spectra typical for cancerous cells. Statistically assisted analysis has shown that normal ROS-injured and cancerous human colon cells can be distinguished based on their unique vibrational properties. The research carried out proves that label-free Raman spectroscopy may play an important role in clinical diagnostics differentiation of normal and cancerous colon cells and may be a source of intraoperative information supporting histopathological analysis.

Spices, Condiments, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Aromas as Not Only Flavorings, but Precious Allies for Our Wellbeing

Spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are crucial components of human history and nutrition. They are substances added to foods to improve flavor and taste. Many of them are used not only to flavor foods, but also in traditional medicine and cosmetics. They have antioxidant, antiviral, antibiotic, anticoagulant and antiinflammatory properties and exciting potential for preventing chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiomyopathy and cancer when used in the daily diet. Research and development in this particular field are deeply rooted as the consumer inclination towards natural products is significant. It is essential to let consumers know the beneficial effects of the daily consumption of spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil so that they can choose them based on effects proven by scientific works and not by the mere illusion that plant products are suitable only because they are natural and not chemicals. The study begins with the definition of spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil. It continues by describing the pathologies that can be prevented with a spicy diet and it concludes by considering the molecules responsible for the beneficial effects on human health (phytochemical) and their eventual transformation when cooked.

Investigation of genetic toxicity and oxidative stress of Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin type D on human peripheral blood lymphocytes

Epsilon toxin (Etx) is an enormously potent pore-forming toxin and a category B biological agent. Etx is the main virulence determinant of Clostridiumperfringens types B and D toxin. It has a cytotoxic effect on distal and collecting kidney tubules. Also, Etx crosses the blood-brain barrier, binds to myelin structures, and destroys oligodendrocytes. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the toxic effects of Etx on human blood lymphocytes, which we examined for the first time for the genetic toxicity of this bacterial toxin. In this study, after taking blood and dividing into nine groups and putting in contact with different dilutions of Etx (1,5,10,25,50,100 and 200 μM), methotrexate (750 μM), and normal saline by Cytokinesis blocked micronucleus (CBMN) assay, we looked at genetic toxicity and the level of oxidative stress created in the under study lymphocytes. The results of this study showed that Etx has significant oxidative stress effects on human lymphocytes at doses above 25 μM, and also this bacterial toxin significantly increases the number of micronuclei formed in lymphocytes. The results of this study indicate that Etx has toxic effects it is genetic and interferes with cell division processes. Thus, human lymphocytes can be used extensively in future studies on Etx.

Circulating 4-F4t-Neuroprostane and 10-F4t-Neuroprostane Are Related to MECP2 Gene Mutation and Natural History in Rett Syndrome

Neuroprostanes, a family of non-enzymatic metabolites of the docosahexaenoic acid, have been suggested as potential biomarkers for neurological diseases. Objective biological markers are strongly needed in Rett syndrome (RTT), which is a progressive X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder that is mainly caused by mutations in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene with a predominant multisystemic phenotype. The aim of the study is to assess a possible association between MECP2 mutations or RTT disease progression and plasma levels of 4(RS)-4-F_4t-neuroprostane (4-F_4t-NeuroP) and 10(RS)-10-F_4t-neuroprostane (10-F_4t-NeuroP) in typical RTT patients with proven MECP2 gene mutation. Clinical severity and disease progression were assessed using the Rett clinical severity scale (RCSS) in n = 77 RTT patients. The 4-F_4t-NeuroP and 10-F_4t-NeuroP molecules were totally synthesized and used to identify the contents of the plasma of the patients. Neuroprostane levels were related to MECP2 mutation category (i.e., early truncating, gene deletion, late truncating, and missense), specific hotspot mutations (i.e., R106W, R133C, R168X, R255X, R270X, R294X, R306C, and T158M), and disease stage (II through IV). Circulating 4-F_4t-NeuroP and 10-F_4t-NeuroP were significantly related to (i) the type of MECP2 mutations where higher levels were associated to gene deletions (p ≤ 0.001); (ii) severity of common hotspot MECP2 mutation (large deletions, R168X, R255X, and R270X); (iii) disease stage, where higher concentrations were observed at stage II (p ≤ 0.002); and (iv) deficiency in walking (p ≤ 0.0003). This study indicates the biological significance of 4-F_4t-NeuroP and 10-F_4t-NeuroP as promising molecules to mark the disease progression and potentially gauge genotype-phenotype associations in RTT.

Xanthine Oxidase/Dehydrogenase Activity as a Source of Oxidative Stress in Prostate Cancer Tissue

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most frequent malignancies. Better biomarkers are constantly wanted, such as those which can help with the prediction of cancer behavior. What is also needed is a marker which may serve as a possible therapeutic target. Oxidative stress (OS), which is a hallmark of cancer, is included in the pathogenesis and progression of PC. We have conducted the present study to determine whether xanthine oxidase/dehydrogenase activity is the source of OS in prostate tissue. We have also determined the concentration of TBA-reactive substances (TBARS) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), as well as the activity of catalase. Xanthine oxidase (XO) activity is significantly higher (p < 0.001) in tumor tissue when compared to the control healthy tissue. The concentration of TBARS (p < 0.001) and AOPP (p < 0.05) are also higher in tumor tissue. Catalase has raised its activity (p < 0.05) versus the control. There is also a strong correlation between XO activity and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the serum. These results indicate a significant role of XO activity in OS in prostate carcinogenesis, and it could be a possible theranostic biomarker, which can be important for a better understanding of the disease, its evolution, and prognosis. A promising treatment may be using XO inhibitors such as allopurinol as adjuvant therapy.

Total Antioxidant Capacity, Catalase Activity and Salivary Oxidative Parameters in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders

Objectives:

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are characterized by pain or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint, periauricular region, masticatory muscles, and neck on one or both sides. It may also be associated with joint sounds, restricted mandibular movements and mandibular deviation. Oxidative agents may have a deleterious role in the pathogenesis of joint diseases, and oxidative stress can lead to TMD. The aim of this study was to assess the oxidative stress biomarkers in the saliva of TMD patients and healthy controls.

Materials and Methods:

This case-control study was conducted on 30 patients with TMDs (5 males and 25 females) with a mean age of 30.7±13.2 years, and 30 healthy controls (5 males and 25 females) with a mean age of 29.16±11.2 years. Saliva samples were collected according to the standard protocol and the total antioxidant capacity of the saliva (non-enzymatic), catalase activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured using the ferric reducing ability of plasma, Aebi’s method, and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. Finally, The MDA levels were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney test. Other quantitative parameters were analyzed by independent t-test.

Results:

TMD patients had significantly higher salivary levels of MDA compared to the control group (P=0.001). But there were no significant differences in catalase (P=0.49) and total antioxidant capacity (P=0.22) of TMD patients and healthy controls.

Conclusion:

It seems that oxidative stress may be involved in the pathogenesis of TMDs.

Local and Systemic Oxidative Stress in Balkan Endemic Nephropathy Is Not Associated with Xanthine Oxidase Activity

Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) represents a chronic tubulointerstitial nephropathy which is followed by the progression of kidney fibrosis to end-stage kidney failure. The critical involvement of poisons in food (aristolochic acid (AA), ochratoxin, and heavy metals) and selenium deficiency are among nutritive factors which contribute to the pathogenesis of BEN, due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) liberation and/or decreased antioxidative defence system. The aim of the study is to distinguish a possible systemic and local origin of ROS through the measurement of xanthine oxidase (XO) activity in urine and plasma, along with the determination of the oxidative changes in lipids and proteins. The study included 50 patients with BEN and 38 control healthy subjects. We noted increased levels of both thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) in the plasma of patients with BEN, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The urinary levels of AOPPs were higher in patients with BEN in comparison to the control (p < 0.001). The specific activity of XO was significantly lower in plasma and urine in BEN samples, compared to controls (p < 0.005). Based on these results, we hypothesize that XO might not be considered a direct systemic or local contributor to ROS production in BEN, most probably because of the diminished kidney functional tissue mass and/or AA-induced changes in purine nucleotide conformation. The increased AOPP and TBARS level in both plasma and urine in BEN may predict ROS systemic liberation with toxic local effects.

Thiol/disulfide homeostasis in patients with ocular-active and ocular-inactive Behçet disease

PURPOSE

To evaluate thiol/disulfide homeostasis in ocular-active (OA) and ocular-inactive (OI) Behçet disease (BD) patients and compare the data with healthy subjects.

METHODS

Twenty OABD patients, 20 OIBD patients and 20 healthy control subjects were included into the study. The BD ocular attack score 24 (BOS24) scoring system was used to assess the activity of disease in ocular BD patients. Systemic activity was also evaluated using BD current activity form (BDCAF). The native thiol (NT), total thiol (TT) and disulfide levels and NT/TT, disulfide/NT and disulfide/TT ratios were measured via using an innovative and automated method.

RESULTS

BOS24 and BDCAF scores were 13.25 ± 2.32 and 4.18 ± 2.06 in OABD patients and 0.31 ± 0.47 and 2.14 ± 1.98 in OIBD patients, respectively. The NT, TT levels and NT/TT ratio were significantly reduced; in contrast, the disulfide levels, disulfide/NT and disulfide/TT ratios were significantly increased in OABD and OIBD patients compared to the healthy control subjects (p < 0.05). Moreover, while the levels of NT and TT were significantly reduced, the disulfide levels as well as disulfide/NT and disulfide/TT ratios were significantly elevated between OABD and OIBD patients (p < 0.05). However, the ratio of NT/TT did not significantly differ between OABD and OIBD patients (p = 0.449). The multiple regression model including BOS24 and BDCAF score statistically significantly predicted NT level, TT level and disulfide level (p < 0.001 for all).

CONCLUSION

Thiol oxidation in BD patients resulted in a change of the thiol/disulfide balance. Therefore, thiol/disulfide homeostasis in BD patients can be used an innovative oxidative stress marker.

In Vitro Evaluation of Iron-Induced Salivary Lipid Oxidation Associated with Exposure to Iron Nanoparticles: Application Possibilities and Limitations for Food and Exposure Sciences

Zerovalent iron nanotechnologies are widely used for groundwater remediation and increasingly considered for advance oxidation treatment in drinking water applications. Iron nanoparticles have been detected in drinking water systems and considered for food fortification; therefore, the potential for human exposure through ingestion can be a concern. This study aimed to assess whether ingestion of iron nanoparticles from drinking water could be detected through flavor perception using In Vitro salivary lipid oxidation as an indicator for metallic flavor perception. Ten female subjects, aged 29–59 years, donated saliva samples for use in the In Vitro experiments. Test samples consisted of 1:1 mixture of saliva and bottled drinking water (control) and three treatment solutions, spiked with ferrous sulfate, stabilized zerovalent iron nanoparticles (nZVI), and an aggregated/microsized suspension of mixed zerovalent iron and microsized suspension of iron and iron oxide metal powder, (mZVI). Upon mixing, samples were subjected to 15 min incubation at 37 °C to resemble oral conditions. Salivary lipid oxidation (SLO) was measured in all samples as micromoles of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)/mg Fe. Exposure to iron in all three forms induced significant amount of SLO in all treatment samples as compared to the control (p < 0.0001). The mean SLO levels were the highest in the ferrous treatment, followed by nZVI and mZVI treatments; the differences in the mean SLO levels were significant (p < 0.05). The findings indicate that oral exposure to stabilized ZVI nanoparticles may induce sensory properties different from that of ferrous salt, likely predictive of diminished detection of metallic flavor by humans.

Triflumuron induces genotoxicity in both mice bone marrow cells and human Colon cancer cell line

Triflumuron (TFM) is an insect growth regulator (IGR), an insecticide commonly used over the world. It is known for its several toxic manifestations, such as reprotoxicity, immunotoxicity and hematotoxicity, which could affect public health. However, studies that reveal its toxic effects on mammalians are limited. To reach this purpose, our study aimed to elucidate the eventual genotoxic effects of TFM in mice bone marrow cells and in HCT 116 cells after a short term exposition. TFM was administered intraperitoneally to Balb/C male mice at doses of 250, 350 and 500 mg/kg bw for 24 h. Genotoxicity was monitored in bone marrow cells using the comet test, the micronucleus test and the chromosome aberration assay. Our results showed that TFM induced DNA damages in a dose-dependent manner. This genotoxicity was confirmed also in vitro on human intestinal cells HCT 116 using the comet test. It was then asked whether this genotoxicity induced by TFM could be due to an oxidative stress. Thus, we found that TFM significantly decreased HCT 116 cell viability. In addition, it induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) followed by lipid peroxidation as revealed by the increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Similarly, the activation of the antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase) was also observed. Our results indicated that, in our experimental conditions, TFM had a genotoxic effect on bone morrow cells and in HCT 116 cells. Moreover, we demonstrated that this genotoxicity passes through an oxidative stress.

Mitochondrial and Nuclear DNA Oxidative Damage in Physiological and Pathological Aging

Mitochondria play an important role in numerous processes, including energy generation, regulating ion homeostasis, and cell signaling. Mitochondria are also the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Due to the oxidative environment within mitochondria, the macromolecules therein, for example, mtDNA, proteins, and lipids are more susceptible to sustaining damage. During aging, mitochondrial functions decline, partly as a result of an accumulation of mtDNA mutations, decreased mtDNA copy number and protein expression, and a reduction in oxidative capacity. The aim of this study was to summarize the knowledge on DNA oxidative damage in aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. It has been hypothesized that various ROS may play an important role not only in physiological senescence but also in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, for example, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Thus, mitochondria seem to be a potential target of novel treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Nonlinear optical responses of oxidized low-density lipoprotein: Cutoff point for z-scan peak-valley distance

The development of new methods to assess biomarkers of cardiovascular disease is currently a subject of scientific research. This article broadens our view of nonlinear optical responses of oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) evaluated using the Z-scan peak-valley distance and proposes a cutoff point. We investigated the association of peak-valley distance and some cardiovascular risk factors related with sociodemographic, clinical and anthropometric profiles and plasma biomarkers such as lipid and glucose profile, apolipoprotein, lipoprotein subfractions and omega 3 fatty acids. Z-scan analysis was performed using isolated LDL after ultracentrifugation in human blood samples collected after fasting. Peak-valley distance is a parameter that decreases directly depending on the oxidizability of LDL. As peak-valley distance was associated with relevant biomarkers of cardiovascular risk, we tested cutoff points for categorization and the best results were obtained using percentile < 75 (Low_z-scan) and percentile ≥ 75 (High_z-scan). The regression logistic models tested after establishing the cutoff point for peak-valley distance showed that increased levels of plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I, large high-density lipoprotein subfractions and docosahexaenoic acid are directly associated with High_Z-scan. Conversely, high levels of small LDL were associated with decreased odds of presenting High_Z-scan. In conclusion, the cutoff point for peak-valley distance was able to identify atherogenic characteristics of LDL and its relationship with some parameters of high-density lipoprotein functionality.

Trans-generational effect of neurotoxicity and related stress response in Caenorhabditis elegans exposed to tetrabromobisphenol A

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), one of the most common brominated flame retardants, has been associated with immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. However, little attention has been focused on understanding the trans-generational effects of TBBPA. The present study used the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) animal model to evaluate the trans-generational effects of neurotoxicity induced by environmentally relevant concentrations of TBBPA (0, 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 µg/L). Multiple indicators including physiological effects (body length, brood size, head thrashes, body bends, and crawling trajectory), degree of neuronal damage (dopamine, GABAergic, and glutamatergic neurons), oxidative stress-related biochemical indicators (superoxide dismutase [SOD] activity, catalase [CAT] enzyme, malondialdehyde [MDA] production, and reactive oxygen species [ROS] accumulation), and stress-related gene expressions have been evaluated in the exposed parental C. elegans generation (G₁) and their progeny (G₂) under TBBPA-free conditions. The results showed that TBBPA exposure induced adverse effects on physiological endpoints, among which body bends and head thrashes were the most sensitive ones, detected above 1 µg/L in G₁ and 100 µg/L in G₂ nematodes, respectively. After contaminant exposure, the three neurons revealed damage related to neurobehavioral endpoints, with no hereditary effects in the progeny. The oxidative stress-related biochemical endpoints demonstrated that when the exposure concentrations were above 1 µg/L in maternal worms, impairment can be detected in both generations, but the progeny recovered at low toxicity concentration (1-100 µg/L). The integrated target gene expression profiles were clearly altered in G₁ and G₂ worms at concentrations between 1 and 1000 µg/L, and a more significant difference existed in two generations of nematodes at low levels (1-10 µg/L) of TBBPA. Studing trans-generational neurotoxicity and the underlying mechanism can generate a precise evaluation of the environmental risk of TBBPA.

Oxidative Stress in the Pathophysiology of Kidney Disease: Implications for Noninvasive Monitoring and Identification of Biomarkers

Kidney disease represents a serious global health problem. One of the main concerns is its late diagnosis, only feasible in a progressed disease state. The lack of a clinical manifestation in the early stages and the fact that the commonly measured parameters of renal function are markedly reduced only during advanced stages of the disease are the main cause. Changes at the molecular level of the kidney tissue occur even before nitrogenous substances, such as creatinine and urea, start to accumulate in the blood. Renal proximal tubules contain a large number of mitochondria and are critical for the energy-demanding process of reabsorption of water and solutes. Mitochondria are the largest producers of oxygen radicals, which, in turn, increase the susceptibility of kidneys to oxidative stress-induced damage. Free radicals and prooxidants produced during acute or chronic kidney injury may further aggravate the course of the disease and play a role in the pathogenesis of subsequent complications. Prevention might be the solution in CKD, but patients are often reluctant to undergo preventive examinations. Noninvasive markers and the possibility to obtain samples at home might help to increase compliance. This review will provide an overview of the possible uses of markers of oxidative status in noninvasive biofluids in patients with renal disease.

PPARα activation enhances the ability of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to resist Aeromonas hydrophila infection

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) plays critical physiological roles in energy metabolism, antioxidation and immunity of mammals, however, these functions have not been fully understood in fish. In the present study, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were fed with fenofibrate, an agonist of PPARα, for six weeks, and subsequently challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. The results showed that PPARα was efficiently activated by fenofibrate through increasing mRNA and protein expressions and protein dephosphorylation. PPARα activation increased significantly mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation efficiency, the copy number of mitochondrial DNA and expression of monoamine oxidase (MAO), a marker gene of mitochondria. Meanwhile, PPARα activation also increased significantly the expression of NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] 1α subcomplex subunit 9 (NDUFA9, complex I) and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 (MTCO1, complex IV). The fenofibrate-fed fish had higher survival rate when exposed to A. hydrophila. Moreover, the fenofibrate-fed fish also had higher activities of immune and antioxidative enzymes, and gene expressions of anti-inflammatory cytokines, while had lower expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes. Taken together, PPARα activation improved the ability of Nile tilapia to resist A. hydrophila, mainly through enhancing mitochondrial fatty acids β-oxidation, immune and antioxidant capacities, as well as inhibiting inflammation. This is the first study showing the regulatory effects of PPARα activation on immune functions through increasing mitochondria-mediated energy supply in fish.

Antioxidant supplementation for lung disease in cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Airway infection leads to progressive damage of the lungs in cystic fibrosis (CF) and oxidative stress has been implicated in the etiology. Supplementation of antioxidant micronutrients (vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene and selenium) or N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a source of glutathione, may therefore potentially help maintain an oxidant-antioxidant balance. Glutathione or NAC can also be inhaled and if administered in this way can also have a mucolytic effect besides the antioxidant effect. Current literature suggests a relationship between oxidative status and lung function. This is an update of a previously published review.

OBJECTIVES

To synthesise existing knowledge on the effect of antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium and glutathione (or NAC as precursor of glutathione) on lung function through inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in people with CF.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register and PubMed were searched using detailed search strategies. We contacted authors of included studies and checked reference lists of these studies for additional, potentially relevant studies. We also searched online trials registries.Last search of Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register: 08 January 2019.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled studies comparing antioxidants as listed above (individually or in combination) in more than a single administration to placebo or standard care in people with CF.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias in the included studies. We contacted study investigators to obtain missing information. If meta-analysed, studies were subgrouped according to supplement, method of administration and the duration of supplementation. We assessed the quality of the evidence using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

One quasi-randomised and 19 randomised controlled studies (924 children and adults) were included; 16 studies (n = 639) analysed oral antioxidant supplementation and four analysed inhaled supplements (n = 285). Only one of the 20 included studies was judged to be free of bias.Oral supplements versus controlThe change from baseline in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted at three months and six months was only reported for the comparison of NAC to control. Four studies (125 participants) reported at three months; we are uncertain whether NAC improved FEV1 % predicted as the quality of the evidence was very low, mean difference (MD) 2.83% (95% confidence interval (CI) -2.16 to 7.83). However, at six months two studies (109 participants) showed that NAC probably increased FEV1 % predicted from baseline (moderate-quality evidence), MD 4.38% (95% CI 0.89 to 7.87). A study of a combined vitamin and selenium supplement (46 participants) reported a greater change from baseline in FEV1 % predicted in the control group at two months, MD -4.30% (95% CI -5.64 to -2.96). One study (61 participants) found that NAC probably makes little or no difference in the change from baseline in quality of life (QoL) at six months (moderate-quality evidence), standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.03 (95% CI -0.53 to 0.47), but the two-month combined vitamin and selenium study reported a small difference in QoL in favour of the control group, SMD -0.66 (95% CI -1.26 to -0.07). The NAC study reported on the change from baseline in body mass index (BMI) (62 participants) and similarly found that NAC probably made no difference between groups (moderate-quality evidence). One study (69 participants) found that a mixed vitamin and mineral supplement may lead to a slightly lower risk of pulmonary exacerbation at six months than a multivitamin supplement (low-quality evidence). Nine studies (366 participants) provided information on adverse events, but did not find any clear and consistent evidence of differences between treatment or control groups with the quality of the evidence ranging from low to moderate. Studies of β-carotene and vitamin E consistently reported greater plasma levels of the respective antioxidants.Inhaled supplements versus controlTwo studies (258 participants) showed inhaled glutathione probably improves FEV1 % predicted at three months, MD 3.50% (95% CI 1.38 to 5.62), but not at six months compared to placebo, MD 2.30% (95% CI -0.12 to 4.71) (moderate-quality evidence). The same studies additionally reported an improvement in FEV1 L in the treated group compared to placebo at both three and six months. One study (153 participants) reported inhaled glutathione probably made little or no difference to the change in QoL from baseline, MD 0.80 (95% CI -1.63 to 3.23) (moderate-quality evidence). No study reported on the change from baseline in BMI at six months, but one study (16 participants) reported at two months and a further study (105 participants) at 12 months; neither study found any difference at either time point. One study (153 participants) reported no difference in the time to the first pulmonary exacerbation at six months. Two studies (223 participants) reported treatment may make little or no difference in adverse events (low-quality evidence), a further study (153 participants) reported that the number of serious adverse events were similar across groups.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

With regards to micronutrients, there does not appear to be a positive treatment effect of antioxidant micronutrients on clinical end-points; however, oral supplementation with glutathione showed some benefit to lung function and nutritional status. Based on the available evidence, inhaled and oral glutathione appear to improve lung function, while oral administration decreases oxidative stress; however, due to the very intensive antibiotic treatment and other concurrent treatments that people with CF take, the beneficial effect of antioxidants remains difficult to assess in those with chronic infection without a very large population sample and a long-term study period. Further studies, especially in very young children, using outcome measures such as lung clearance index and the bronchiectasis scores derived from chest scans, with improved focus on study design variables (such as dose levels and timing), and elucidating clear biological pathways by which oxidative stress is involved in CF, are necessary before a firm conclusion regarding effects of antioxidants supplementation can be drawn. The benefit of antioxidants in people with CF who receive CFTR modulators therapies should also be assessed in the future.

Effect of single and combined immunostimulants on growth, anti-oxidation activity, non-specific immunity and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

This study evaluates the effect of dietary supplementation of immunostimulants on the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) with a single administration of mannan oligosaccharide (MOS), or its combination with either β-glucan or with inulin for 8 weeks. Four diets included an untreated control diet (C), MOS alone (3 g kg^-1, M), MOS with β-glucan (3 g kg ^-1 MOS + 1.5 g kg ^-1 β-glucan, MB), and MOS with inulin (3 g kg ^-1 MOS + 10 g kg ^-1 inulin, MI). The weight gain and specific growth rate of the crabs fed M, MB, and MI diets were improved by lowing feed conversion ratio. The growth and feed utilization of the crabs fed the MB diet were improved compared with the other three groups. The crabs fed the M, MB and MI diets showed a higher intestinal trypsin activity than that in the M and control groups. The highest trypsin activity in the hepatopancreas was observed in the MB group. Crabs fed M, MB and MI diets increased antioxidant system-related enzyme activities, but reduced malondialdehyde. The highest activities of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, lysozyme and phenol oxidase in the gut and the respiratory burst of the crabs were found in the MB group. The MB diet promoted the mRNA expression of E. sinensis immune genes (ES-PT, ES-Relish, ES-LITAF, p38MAPK and Crustin) compared with the control. After 3 days of infection with Aeromonas hydrophila, the highest survival of crabs was also found in the MB group. This study indicates that the combination of MOS with β-glucan or with inulin can improve growth, antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and disease resistance in E. sinensis.

Precompetitional Weight Reduction Modifies Prooxidative-Antioxidative Status in Judokas

Objective

The main aim of the study was an assessment of the influence of rapid weight loss on oxidative stress parameters in judokas differing in weight reduction value.

Materials and Methods

The study included 30 judokas with an age range of 18-30 years (mean age: 22.4 ± 3.40 years). Enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidative markers, lipid peroxidation markers, and total oxidative stress were assessed three times: one week before a competition (the first stage), after gaining the desired weight (the second stage), and one week after the competition (the third stage).

Results

Between the first and the second stage, the concentration of lipid hydroperoxides (LPH) decreased significantly. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD), ceruloplasmin (CER), malondialdehyde (MDA), LPH, and total oxidative stress (TOS) concentrations were the lowest one week after the competition. Linear regression indicated that the emphases on increased weight reduction increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and protein sulfhydryl (PSH) between the first and the second stage of the study. Moderate weight reduction (2-5%) resulted in elevated levels of SOD, Mn-SOD, LPH, MDA, and TOS in comparison to low and high reductions. An opposite relation was observed in PSH. In judokas, the precompetitional weight reduction range was 0.44-6.10% (mean: 2.93% ± 1.76%) of the initial body weight. Concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD; p < .01), manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD; p < .001), and ceruloplasmin (CER; p < .05) decreased between the first and the third stage of the study as well between the second and third one. Before competitions, a decrease in lipid hydroperoxide (LPH; p < .01) concentration was observed. A reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA; p < .05), LPH (p < .01), and total oxidative stress (TOS; p < .05) levels between the first and the final stage occurred. The increase in weight reduction was linearly correlated with the rise of glutathione peroxidase (GPx; p < .05), glutathione reductase (GR; p < .05), glutathione S-transferase (GST; p < .05), and protein sulfhydryl (PSH; p < .05) concentrations between the first and the second stage of the study. Moderate weight reduction (2-5%) resulted in elevated levels of SOD (p < .05), Mn-SOD (p < .05), LPH (p < .05), MDA (p < .05), and TOS (p < .05) in comparison to low and high reductions. An opposite relation was observed in PSH (p < .005).

Conclusions

The effect of weight reduction in judo athletes on prooxidative-antioxidative system diversity depends on the weight reduction value.

Effects of inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and STAT3/NF-κB- and Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress on benign prostatic hyperplasia induced by a high-fat diet

This study determined whether or not benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) is involved in inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)- and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated oxidative stress pathways. Forty rats were divided into four groups: control; HFD; testosterone; and HFD+testosterone. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to assess histologic changes. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis were used to detect levels of related proteins. Compared with the control group, the prostate levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), malondialdehyde (MDA), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) were significantly increased, while the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were decreased. The TNF-κB, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 levels were increased, while the Bax level was markedly decreased. The cytoplasmic expression of STAT3 and NF-κB was increased, while the nuclear expression of Nrf2 was markedly decreased compared with the control group. In summary, our results demonstrated that a long-term HFD might cause changes in inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, thus contributing to prostatic hyperplasia. The underlying mechanisms might be related to the STAT3/NF-κB- and Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress pathway.