CVD and Oxidative Stress

Association between atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease score and skin carotenoid levels estimated via refraction spectroscopy in the Japanese population: a cross-sectional study

Carotenoids play a role in preventing and impeding the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) through their anti-oxidative effects. This study evaluated associations between ASCVD risk and skin carotenoid (SC) levels, reflecting dietary carotenoid intake. Participants' ASCVD risk was assessed using the Hisayama ASCVD risk prediction model, and SC levels were measured through a reflection spectroscope (Veggie Meter). The associations between high ASCVD risk and SC levels were analyzed using logistic regression analysis and a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model. A total of 1130 men and women (mean age: 56 years) from participants who underwent a health examination in Seirei Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Medicine in 2019 and 2022 were analyzed. Of these, 4.6% had moderate or high ASCVD risk. Mean SC values were 236, 315, 376, 447, and 606 in quintile Q1 to Q5, respectively. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of SC quintile for moderate- or high-risk ASCVD was 0.24 (0.12-0.51) in Q5 (495 ≤), 0.42 (0.23-0.77) in Q4, 0.50 (0.29-0.88) in Q3, and 0.68 (0.41-1.12) in Q2 compared to Q1 (< 281). High SC values continuously showed non-linear inverse association with moderate- or high-risk for ASCVD in Japanese adults. Non-invasive SC measurements may be a good indicator for recommending carotenoids to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Addressing the Missing Links in Cardiovascular Aging

The aim of this manuscript is to provide a review of available options to enhance cardiovascular health and prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the aging population using a systems-biology approach. These include the role of the gut microbiome, the early identification and removal of environmental toxins, and finally age related sex hormones and supplement replacement which all influence aging. Implementing such a comprehensive approach has the potential to facilitate earlier risk assessment, disease prevention, and even improve mortality. Further study in these areas will continue to advance our understanding and refine therapeutic interventions for a healthier cardiovascular aging process.

Comparison of cardiotoxicity induced by alectinib, apatinib, lenvatinib and anlotinib in zebrafish embryos

Four tyrosine kinase inhibitors, alectinib, apatinib, lenvatinib and anlotinib, have been shown to be effective in the treatment of clinical tumors, but their cardiac risks have also raised concerns. In this study, zebrafish embryos at 6 h post fertilization (hpf) were exposed to the four drugs at concentrations of 0.05-0.2 mg/L until 72 hpf, and then the development of these embryos was quantified, including heart rate, body length, yolk sac area, pericardial area, distance between venous sinus and balloon arteriosus (SV-BA), separation of cardiac myocytes and endocardium, gene expression, vascular development and oxidative stress. At the same exposure concentrations, alectinib and apatinib had little effect on the cardiac development of zebrafish embryos, while lenvatinib and anlotinib could induce significant cardiotoxicity and developmental toxicity, including shortened of body length, delayed absorption of yolk sac, pericardial edema, prolonged SV-BA distance, separation of cardiomyocytes and endocardial cells, and downregulation of key genes for heart development. Heart rate decreased in all four drug treatment groups. In terms of vascular development, alectinib and apatinib did not inhibit the growth of embryonic intersegmental vessels (ISVs) and retinal vessels, while lenvatinib and anlotinib caused serious vascular toxicity, and the inhibition of anlotinib in vascular development was more obvious. Besides, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lenvatinib and anlotinib treatment groups was significantly increased. Our results provide reference for comparing the cardiotoxicity of the four drugs.

Research progress on the regulation of oxidative stress by phenolics: the role of gut microbiota and Nrf2 signaling pathway

In recent years, the increase in high-calorie diets and sedentary lifestyles has made obesity a global public health problem. An unbalanced diet promotes the production of proinflammatory cytokines and causes redox imbalance in the body. Phenolics have potent antioxidant activity and cytoprotective ability. They can scavenge free radicals and reactive oxygen species, and enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes, thus combating the body's oxidative stress. They can also improve the body's inflammatory response, enhance the enzyme activity of lipid metabolism, and reduce the contents of cholesterol and triglyceride. Most phenolics are biotransformed and absorbed into the blood after the action by gut microbiota; these metabolites then undergo phase I and II metabolism and regulate oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals and increasing expression of antioxidant enzymes. Phenolics induce the expression of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes and phase II detoxification enzymes by stimulating Nrf2 to enter the nucleus and bind to the antioxidant response element after uncoupling from Keap1, thereby promoting the production of antioxidant enzymes and phase II detoxification enzymes. The absorption rate of phenolics in the small intestine is extremely low. Most phenolics reach the colon, where they interact with the microbiota and undergo a series of metabolism. Their metabolites will reach the liver via the portal vein and undergo conjugation reactions. Subsequently, the metabolites reach the whole body to exert biological activity by traveling with the systemic circulation. Phenolics can promote the growth of probiotics, reduce the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), and improve intestinal microecological imbalance. This paper reviews the nutritional value, bioactivity, and antioxidant mechanism of phenolics in the body, aiming to provide a scientific basis for the development and utilization of natural antioxidants and provide a reference for elucidating the mechanism of action of phenolics for regulating oxidative stress in the body. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Epicardial Adipose Tissue: A Precise Biomarker for Cardiovascular Risk, Metabolic Diseases, and Target for Therapeutic Interventions

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is located between the heart muscle and visceral pericardium, where it has direct contact with coronary blood vessels. Elevated thickness of this tissue can induce local inflammation affecting the myocardium and the underlying coronary arteries, contributing to various cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Recent studies have identified EAT thickness as a simple and reliable biomarker for certain cardiovascular outcomes. Examples include the presence of atherosclerosis, incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and the prevalence of atrial fibrillation. Furthermore, EAT measurements can help to identify patients with a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Since the EAT thickness can be easily measured using echocardiography, such examinations could serve as a useful and cost-effective preventive tool for assessing cardiovascular health. This review also summarizes therapeutical interventions aimed at reducing EAT. Reducing EAT thickness has been shown to be possible through pharmacological, surgical, or lifestyle-change interventions. Pharmaceutical therapies, including thiazolidinediones, glucagon-like peptide 1-receptor agonists, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, and statins, have been shown to influence EAT thickness. Additionally, EAT thickness can also be managed more invasively through bariatric surgery, or noninvasively through lifestyle changes to diet and exercise routines.

Moderating Effect of Muscular Strength in the Association between Cardiovascular Events and Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged and Older Adults-A Cross Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Depression and cardiovascular diseases are two main health conditions contributing to the global disease burden. Several studies indicate a reciprocal association between them. It is still unclear how changes in overall muscle strength may impact this association. This study aimed to analyse how muscular strength moderates the relationship between cardiovascular events and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS

Wave 8 of the population-based Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (2019/2020) cross-sectional data, which included 41,666 participants (17,986 men) with a mean age of 70.65 (9.1) years old, was examined. Grip strength was measured twice on each hand using a dynamometer. The 12-item EURO-D scale was employed to gauge depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Grip strength negatively moderates the link between cardiovascular events and depressive symptoms (male: B = -0.03, 95% CI = -0.04, -0.03; female: B = -0.06, 95% CI = -0.06, -0.05). Additionally, the grip strength moderation values in the significant zone for males and females were less than 63.2 kg and 48.3 kg, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Muscular strength modifies depressive symptoms and lessens their correlation with cardiovascular diseases. Muscle-strengthening activities could be incorporated into primary and secondary preventive strategies to reduce the burden of depression in people with CVD.

Implications and progression of peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2) in various human diseases

Peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2), a characteristic 2-Cys enzyme is one of the foremost effective scavenger proteins against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) defending cells against oxidative stress. Dysregulation of this antioxidant raises the quantity of ROS and oxidative stress implicated in several diseases. PRDX2 lowers the generation of ROS that takes part in controlling several signalling pathways occurring in neurons, protecting them from stress caused by oxidation and an inflammatory harm. Depending on the aetiological variables, the kind of cancer, and the stage of tumour development, PRDX2 may behave either as an onco-suppressor or a promoter. However, overexpression of PRDX2 may be linked to the development of numerous cancers, including those of the colon, cervix, breast, and prostate. PRDX2 also plays a beneficial effect in inflammatory diseases. PRDX2 being a thiol-specific peroxidase, is known to control proinflammatory reactions. The spilling of PRDX2, on the other hand, accelerates cognitive impairment following a stroke by triggering an inflammatory reflex. PRDX2 expression patterns in vascular cells tend to be crucial to its involvement in cardiovascular diseases. In vascular smooth muscle cells, if the protein tyrosine phosphatase is restricted, PRDX2 could avoid the neointimal thickening which relies on platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), a vital component of vascular remodelling. A proper PRDX2 balance is therefore crucial. The imbalance causes a number of illnesses, including cancers, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular ailments, and neurological and neurodegenerative problems which are discussed in this review.

Health position paper and redox perspectives - Disease burden by transportation noise

Transportation noise is a ubiquitous urban exposure. In 2018, the World Health Organization concluded that chronic exposure to road traffic noise is a risk factor for ischemic heart disease. In contrast, they concluded that the quality of evidence for a link to other diseases was very low to moderate. Since then, several studies on the impact of noise on various diseases have been published. Also, studies investigating the mechanistic pathways underlying noise-induced health effects are emerging. We review the current evidence regarding effects of noise on health and the related disease-mechanisms. Several high-quality cohort studies consistently found road traffic noise to be associated with a higher risk of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, diabetes, and all-cause mortality. Furthermore, recent studies have indicated that road traffic and railway noise may increase the risk of diseases not commonly investigated in an environmental noise context, including breast cancer, dementia, and tinnitus. The harmful effects of noise are related to activation of a physiological stress response and nighttime sleep disturbance. Oxidative stress and inflammation downstream of stress hormone signaling and dysregulated circadian rhythms are identified as major disease-relevant pathomechanistic drivers. We discuss the role of reactive oxygen species and present results from antioxidant interventions. Lastly, we provide an overview of oxidative stress markers and adverse redox processes reported for noise-exposed animals and humans. This position paper summarizes all available epidemiological, clinical, and preclinical evidence of transportation noise as an important environmental risk factor for public health and discusses its implications on the population level.

AI-Enhanced Predictive Modeling for Identifying Depression and Delirium in Cardiovascular Patients Scheduled for Cardiac Surgery

Several studies have demonstrated a critical association between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mental health, revealing that approximately one-third of individuals with CVD also experience depression. This comorbidity significantly increases the risk of cardiac complications and mortality, a risk that persists regardless of traditional factors. Addressing this issue, our study pioneers a straightforward, explainable, and data-driven pipeline for predicting depression in CVD patients.

METHODS

Our study was conducted at a cardiac surgical intensive care unit. A total of 224 participants who were scheduled for elective coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) were enrolled in the study. Prior to surgery, each patient underwent psychiatric evaluation to identify major depressive disorder (MDD) based on the DSM-5 criteria. An advanced data curation workflow was applied to eliminate outliers and inconsistencies and improve data quality. An explainable AI-empowered pipeline was developed, where sophisticated machine learning techniques, including the AdaBoost, random forest, and XGBoost algorithms, were trained and tested on the curated data based on a stratified cross-validation approach.

RESULTS

Our findings identified a significant correlation between the biomarker "sRAGE" and depression (r = 0.32, p = 0.038). Among the applied models, the random forest classifier demonstrated superior accuracy in predicting depression, with notable scores in accuracy (0.62), sensitivity (0.71), specificity (0.53), and area under the curve (0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides compelling evidence that depression in CVD patients, particularly those with elevated "sRAGE" levels, can be predicted with a 62% accuracy rate. Our AI-driven approach offers a promising way for early identification and intervention, potentially revolutionizing care strategies in this vulnerable population.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of oxidative stress and antioxidant markers in recurrent aphthous stomatitis

BACKGROUND

We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize all studies that reported the level of oxidative and antioxidative markers in recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) patients compared to controls.

METHODS

We registered our study in PROSPERO (CRD42023431310). PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched to find relevant publications up to June 5, 2023. The standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. We included 30 articles after multiple stags of screening.

RESULTS

We found that erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and Glutathione peroxidase activity were significantly lower in patients with RAS compared to healthy controls (SMD = - 1.00, 95%CI = -1.79 to -0.21, p = 0.013, and SMD = - 1.90, 95%CI = -3.43 to -0.38, p = 0.01, Respectively). However, there was not any difference between patients with RAS and healthy controls in erythrocyte Catalase (SMD = - 0.71, 95%CI = -1.56-0.14, p = 0.10). The total antioxidant status (TAS) level, in serum was significantly lower in patients than healthy controls (SMD = - 0.98, 95%CI = -1.57 to -0.39, p = 0.001). In addition, RAS patients had higher levels of serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), Serum total oxidant status, and serum oxidative stress index than healthy controls (SMD = 2.11, 95%CI = 1.43-2.79, p < 0.001, SMD = 1.53, 95%CI = 0.34-2.72, p = 0.01, and SMD = 1.25, 95%CI = 0.25-2.25, p = 0.014, Respectively); However, salivary MDA and TAS, and serum uric acid, vitamin E and C, and reduced glutathione levels of patients with RAS were not different from that of healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between oxidative stress and RAS is well established in this meta-analysis. Although the molecular processes underlying the etiology of this pathology remain unknown, evidence indicating oxidative stress has a significant role in the pathogenesis of RAS has been revealed.

Evaluating the Potential of Plukenetia volubilis Linneo (Sacha Inchi) in Alleviating Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Mini Review

Plukenetia volubilis Linneo or Sacha Inchi (SI), a traditional natural remedy indigenous to Peru and Brazil, has garnered global attention due to its exceptional nutritional composition. Its protective effects against various non-communicable diseases, notably cardiovascular disease (CVD), have become a subject of interest in recent research. This comprehensive review summarizes the existing evidence from 15 relevant articles concerning the impact of SI on common CVD risk factors, including dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. The relevant articles were derived from comprehensive searches on PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using predefined criteria and keywords related to the topic. Overall, SI demonstrated positive effects in attenuating dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. The multifaceted mechanisms responsible for the protective effects of SI against these CVD risk factors are primarily attributed to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. While preclinical studies dominate the current scientific literature on SI, there are limited clinical trials to corroborate these findings. Therefore, future well-designed, large-scale randomized clinical trials are highly recommended to establish the efficacy of SI and determine its optimal dosage, potential drug and food interactions, and practical integration into preventive strategies and dietary interventions for the high-risk populations.

The Influence of Probiotic Supplementation on the Obesity Indexes, Neuroinflammatory and Oxidative Stress Markers, Gut Microbial Diversity, and Working Memory in Obese Thai Children

Obesity is a worldwide health problem with a complex interaction between gut microbiota and cognition. Several studies have demonstrated that probiotic treatments improve characteristics linked to obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on the obesity indexes, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, gut microbiota, and working memory in obese children. Ten obese children were assigned to receive the probiotics (8 × 109 CFU of Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis) for 12 weeks. Demographic data were recorded. Urine and fecal samples were collected to evaluate biomarkers related to obesity and cognition. Behavioral working memory was assessed using the visual n-back test. Electroencephalography was employed to measure electrical activity during the visual n-back test. All parameters were evaluated at the baseline and after 12 weeks. The results revealed that probiotic supplementation significantly altered some gut microbial metabolites, gut microbiota, total antioxidant capacity, and neuroinflammatory markers. However, no significant changes were observed in the visual n-back test or electroencephalographic recordings after 12 weeks. In conclusion, the use of probiotics might be an alternative treatment that could improve the gut microbial ecosystem and microbial metabolites, as well as host antioxidant and neuroinflammation levels. The preliminary results indicated that further detailed prolonged studies are needed in order to determine the beneficial effects of the studied probiotics.

Hesperidin Anti-Osteoporosis by Regulating Estrogen Signaling Pathways

Osteoporosis (OP) is distinguished by a reduction in bone mass and degradation of bone micro-structure, frequently resulting in fractures. As the geriatric demographic expands, the incidence of affected individuals progressively rises, thereby exerting a significant impact on the quality of life experienced by individuals. The flavonoid compound hesperidin has been subject to investigation regarding its effects on skeletal health, albeit the precise mechanisms through which it operates remain ambiguous. This study utilized network pharmacology to predict the core targets and signaling pathways implicated in the anti-OP properties of hesperidin. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were employed to confirm the stability of the interaction between hesperidin and the core targets. The effects of hesperidin on osteoblastic cells MC3T3-E1 were assessed using MTT, ELISA, alkaline phosphatase assay, and RT-qPCR techniques. Furthermore, in vivo experiments were conducted to determine the potential protective effects of hesperidin on zebrafish bone formation and oxidative stress response. The results demonstrate that network pharmacology has identified 10 key target points, significantly enriched in the estrogen signaling pathway. Hesperidin exhibits notable promotion of MC3T3-E1 cell proliferation and significantly enhances ALP activity. ELISA measurements indicate an elevation in NO levels and a reduction in IL-6 and TNF-α. Moreover, RT-qPCR analysis consistently reveals that hesperidin significantly modulates the mRNA levels of ESR1, SRC, AKT1, and NOS3 in MC3T3-E1 cells. Hesperidin promotes osteogenesis and reduces oxidative stress in zebrafish. Additionally, we validate the stable and tight binding of hesperidin with ESR1, SRC, AKT1, and NOS3 through molecular dynamics simulations. In conclusion, our comprehensive analysis provides evidence that hesperidin may exert its effects on alleviating OP through the activation of the estrogen signaling pathway via ESR1. This activation leads to the upregulation of SRC, AKT, and eNOS, resulting in an increase in NO levels. Furthermore, hesperidin promotes osteoblast-mediated bone formation and inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby alleviating oxidative stress associated with OP.

Molecular targets and mechanisms of Guanxinning tablet in treating atherosclerosis: Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis

BACKGROUND

Guanxinning tablet (GXNT), a Chinese patent medicine, is composed of salvia miltiorrhiza bunge and ligusticum striatum DC, which may play the role of endothelial protection through many pathways. We aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of GXNT against atherosclerosis (AS) through network pharmacology and molecular docking verification.

METHODS

The active ingredients and their potential targets of GXNT were obtained in traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform and bioinformatics analysis tool for molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine databases. DrugBank, TTD, DisGeNET, OMIM, and GeneCards databases were used to screen the targets of AS. The intersection targets gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis were performed in DAVID database. GXNT-AS protein-protein interaction network, ingredient-target network and herb-target-pathway network were constructed by Cytoscape. Finally, we used AutoDock for molecular docking.

RESULTS

We screened 65 active ingredients of GXNT and 70 GXNT-AS intersection targets. The key targets of protein-protein interaction network were AKT1, JUN, STAT3, TNF, TP53, IL6, EGFR, MAPK14, RELA, and CASP3. The Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis showed that pathways in cancer, lipid and atherosclerosis, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway were the main pathways. The ingredient-target network showed that the key ingredients were luteolin, tanshinone IIA, myricanone, dihydrotanshinlactone, dan-shexinkum d, 2-isopropyl-8-methylphenanthrene-3,4-dione, miltionone I, deoxyneocryptotanshinone, Isotanshinone II and 4-methylenemiltirone. The results of molecular docking showed that tanshinone IIA, dihydrotanshinlactone, dan-shexinkum d, 2-isopropyl-8-methylphenanthrene-3,4-dione, miltionone I, deoxyneocryptotanshinone, Isotanshinone II and 4-methylenemiltirone all had good binding interactions with AKT1, EGFR and MAPK14.

CONCLUSION

The results of network pharmacology and molecular docking showed that the multiple ingredients within GXNT may confer protective effects on the vascular endothelium against AS through multitarget and multichannel mechanisms. AKT1, EGFR and MAPK14 were the core potential targets of GXNT against AS.

Evaluation of Antioxidant Defence Systems and Inflammatory Status in Basketball Elite Athletes

Intense physical activity can induce metabolic changes that modify specific biochemical biomarkers. In this scenario, the purpose of our study was to evaluate how intense physical activity can affect oxidative metabolism. Following this, fifteen professional basketball players and fifteen sedentary controls were recruited and subjected to two samplings of serum and urine in the pre-season (September) and two months after the start of the competitive season (November). Our results have shown an increase in athletes compared to controls in CK and LDH in September (respectively, p-value 0.003 and p-value < 0.001) and in November (both p-value < 0.001), whereas ALT is increased only in November (p-value 0.09). GGT serum levels were decreased in athletes compared to controls in both months (in September p-value 0.001 and in November p-value < 0.001). A gene expression analysis, carried out using RT-PCR, has revealed that IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, xCT and GCLM are increased in athletes in both months (p-value < 0.0001), while IL-10 and CHAC1 are increased only in September if compared to the controls (respectively, p-value 0.040 and p-value < 0.001). In conclusion, physical activity creates an adaptation of the systems involved in oxidative metabolism but without causing damage to the liver or kidney. This information could be of help to sports doctors for the prevention of injuries and illnesses in professional athletes for the construction of the athlete's passport.

Does an apple a day keep away diseases? Evidence and mechanism of action

Apples and their products exemplify the recently reemphasized link between dietary fruit intake and the alleviation of human disease. Their consumption does indeed improve human health due to their high phytochemical content. To identify potentially relevant articles from clinical trials, some epidemiological studies and meta-analyses, and in vitro and in vivo studies (cell cultures and animal models), PubMed was searched from January 1, 2012, to May 15, 2022. This review summarized the potential effects of apple and apple products (juices, puree, pomace, dried apples, extracts rich in apple bioactives and single apple bioactives) on health. Apples and apple products have protective effects against cardiovascular diseases, cancer, as well as mild cognitive impairment and promote hair growth, healing of burn wounds, improve the oral environment, prevent niacin-induced skin flushing, promote the relief of UV-induced skin pigmentation, and improve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis as well as cedar hay fever among others. These effects are associated with various mechanisms, such as vascular endothelial protection, blood lipids lowering, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anti-invasion, and antimetastatic effects. Meanwhile, it has provided an important reference for the application and development of medicine, nutrition, and other fields.

The Impact of Pharmacotherapy for Heart Failure on Oxidative Stress-Role of New Drugs, Flozins

Heart failure (HF) is a multifactorial clinical syndrome involving many complex processes. The causes may be related to abnormal heart structure and/or function. Changes in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, the sympathetic nervous system, and the natriuretic peptide system are important in the pathophysiology of HF. Dysregulation or overexpression of these processes leads to changes in cardiac preload and afterload, changes in the vascular system, peripheral vascular dysfunction and remodeling, and endothelial dysfunction. One of the important factors responsible for the development of heart failure at the cellular level is oxidative stress. This condition leads to deleterious cellular effects as increased levels of free radicals gradually disrupt the state of equilibrium, and, as a consequence, the internal antioxidant defense system is damaged. This review focuses on pharmacotherapy for chronic heart failure with regard to oxidation-reduction metabolism, with special attention paid to the latest group of drugs, SGLT2 inhibitors-an integral part of HF treatment. These drugs have been shown to have beneficial effects by protecting the antioxidant system at the cellular level.

A 'One Health' perspective of Africa-wide distribution and prevalence of Giardia species in humans, animals and waterbodies: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Giardiasis, caused by Giardia duodenalis, is a leading cause of diarrhoea in resource-poor countries. To gain a better insight into the epidemiology of Giardia in Africa, we undertook a robust study to comprehend the distribution and prevalence of Giardia infection in humans, animals and their dispersal in the environment. Our protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022317653). Deep literature search from 5 electronic databases, namely, AJOL, Google scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect and Springer Link was performed using relevant keywords. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model and heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using Cochran's Q and the I2-statistic. More than 500 eligible studies published from 1 January 1980 until 22 March 2022 were retrieved. In humans, exactly 48 124 Giardia spp. infection cases were registered from the 494 014 stool samples examined resulting in a pooled prevalence estimate (PPE) of 8.8% using microscopy. Whereas copro-antigen tests and molecular diagnostic methods generated PPE of 14.3 and 19.5%, respectively, with HIV+ subjects and those with diarrhoeatic stool having infection rates of 5.0 and 12.3%, respectively. The PPE of Giardia spp. infection in animals using molecular methods was 15.6%, which was most prevalent in pigs (25.2%) with Nigeria registering the highest prevalence at 20.1%. The PPE of Giardia spp. contamination from waterbodies was 11.9% from a total of 7950 samples which were detected using microscopy, with Tunisia documenting the highest infection rate of 37.3%. This meta-analysis highlights the necessity of ‘One Health’ approach for consolidated epidemiological studies and control of giardiasis in the African continent.

The ratio of monocyte count and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol mediates the association between urinary tungsten and cardiovascular disease: a study from NHANES 2005-2018

Tungsten (W) is an emerging contaminant that can damage multiple systems in humans. However, studies of its effects on cardiovascular disease (CVD) are limited. The monocyte count to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) is a composite inflammatory index of great concern in recent years, derived from lipid and cell inflammation parameters, that is used to indicate the risk of CVD. This study aimed to investigate the association between urinary W and CVD in the general population and compare the mediating effects of lipids, cell inflammatory parameters, and MHR to find a better target for intervention. We analyzed data from 9137 (≥ 20 years) participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), from 2005 to 2018. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) and survey-weighted generalized linear models (SWGLMs) were used to assess the relationship between W and CVD. Mediated analyses were used to explore lipids, cell inflammatory parameters, and MHR in the possible mediating pathways between W and CVD. In SWGLM, we found that W enhances the risk of CVD, especially congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary heart disease (CHD), and angina pectoris (AP). Women, higher age groups (≥ 55 years), and those with hypertension were vulnerable to W in the subgroup analysis. Mediation analysis showed that monocyte count (MC), white blood cell count (WBC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and MHR played a mediating role between W and CVD in proportions of 8.49%, 3.70%, 5.18%, and 12.95%, respectively. In conclusion, our study shows that urinary W can increase the risk of CVD, especially for CHF, CHD, and AP. Women, older age groups, and people with hypertension seem to be more vulnerable to W. In addition, MC, WBC, HDL, and MHR mediated the association between W and CVD, especially MHR, which suggests that we should consider it as a priority intervention target in the future.

Total Antioxidant Capacity in Obese and Non-Obese Subjects and Its Association with Anthropo-Metabolic Markers: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) has been related to the development of and complications associated with chronic diseases, but its importance during obesity is not entirely clear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify whether there are differences or similarities in the TAC between subjects with obesity (SO) and subjects with normal weight (NW). Following the recommendations of PRISMA and Cochrane, we performed a systematic search in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and PROSPERO databases, identifying 1607 studies. Among these, 22 studies were included in the final analysis, comprising 3937 subjects (1665 SO and 2272 NW) in whom serum TAC was measured, and from these 19,201 subjects, the correlation of serum TAC with anthropo-metabolic parameters was also estimated. The Newcastle-Ottawa method was used for the evaluation of the risk of bias. Using a random-effect model (REM), TAC was reduced in SO independently of age (SMD, -0.86; 95% CI -1.38 to -0.34; p = 0.0012), whereas malondialdehyde (SMD, 1.50; 95% CI 0.60 to 2.41), oxidative stress index (SMD, 1.0; 95% CI 0.16 to 1.84), and total oxidant status (SMD, 0.80; 0.22 to 1.37) were increased. There were seven significant pooled correlations of TAC with anthropometric and metabolic parameters: weight (r = -0.17), hip circumference (r= -0.11), visceral adipose index (r = 0.29), triglycerides (r = 0.25), aspartate aminotransferase (r = 0.41), alanine aminotransferase (r = 0.38), and uric acid (r = 0.53). Our results confirm a decrease in TAC and an increase in markers of oxidative stress in SO and underpin the importance of these serum biomarkers in obesity.

The Role of Systemic Oxidative Status in Coronary Arterial and Peripheral Venous Blood of Patients with Unstable Angina Pectoris

(1) Background: We aimed to analyze the oxidative status of patients with unstable angina pectoris (UA), as well as to determine the correlation of these parameters between coronary arterial and peripheral venous blood samples. (2) Methods: The study included 47 human subjects with UA and 45 control subjects. We performed clinical examinations, hemodynamic and coronary angiography measures. Also, in the blood samples, we measured routine laboratory markers and the concentration of pro-oxidants: index of lipid peroxidation (TBARS), superoxide anion radical (O₂^-), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and nitrites (NO₂^-), while antioxidant parameters were determined from red blood cells: reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). All parameters were determined spectrophotometrically. (3) Results: Significantly higher values of TBARS and all measured antioxidants SOD, CAT and GSH were observed in the coronary arterial blood of the UA group relative to coronary arterial blood of the control subjects. On the other hand, in the peripheral venous blood samples, a significantly lower GSH value was found in the UA group compared to the control. (4) Conclusions: This study has shown that the majority of changes in all measured redox markers are found in coronary blood, especially related to the activity of antioxidant components. In patients with an unstable form of angina, prooxidants (superoxide anion radical and index of lipid peroxidation) and endogenous antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione) are in direct correlation with the course of ischemic disease. Future studies, where participants would be randomized depending on symptom duration, are necessary to confirm these conclusions.

Vascular endothelial growth factor-D plasma levels and VEGFD genetic variants are independently associated with outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease

AIMS

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family is involved in pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular (CV) diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between circulating VEGF ligands and/or soluble receptors and CV outcome in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Levels of VEGF biomarkers, including bFGF, Flt-1, KDR (VEGFR2), PlGF, Tie-2, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, and VEGF-D, were measured in the PLATO ACS cohort (n = 2091, discovery cohort). Subsequently, VEGF-D was also measured in the STABILITY CCS cohort (n = 4015, confirmation cohort) to verify associations with CV outcomes. Associations between plasma VEGF-D and outcomes were analysed by multiple Cox regression models with hazard ratios (HR [95% CI]) comparing the upper vs. the lower quartile of VEGF-D. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) of VEGF-D in PLATO identified SNPs that were used as genetic instruments in Mendelian randomization (MR) meta-analyses vs. clinical endpoints. GWAS and MR were performed in patients with ACS from PLATO (n = 10 013) and FRISC-II (n = 2952), and with CCS from the STABILITY trial (n = 10 786). VEGF-D, KDR, Flt-1, and PlGF showed significant association with CV outcomes. VEGF-D was most strongly associated with CV death (P = 3.73e-05, HR 1.892 [1.419, 2.522]). Genome-wide significant associations with VEGF-D levels were identified at the VEGFD locus on chromosome Xp22. MR analyses of the combined top ranked SNPs (GWAS P-values; rs192812042, P = 5.82e-20; rs234500, P = 1.97e-14) demonstrated a significant effect on CV mortality [P = 0.0257, HR 1.81 (1.07, 3.04) per increase of one unit in log VEGF-D].

CONCLUSION

This is the first large-scale cohort study to demonstrate that both VEGF-D plasma levels and VEGFD genetic variants are independently associated with CV outcomes in patients with ACS and CCS. Measurements of VEGF-D levels and/or VEGFD genetic variants may provide incremental prognostic information in patients with ACS and CCS.

Food Anthocyanins: Malvidin and Its Glycosides as Promising Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agents with Potential Health Benefits

Anthocyanins are flavonoid compounds that are abundantly present in fruits and vegetables. These compounds contribute to the color of these foods and offer various health benefits to consumers due to their biological properties. There are more than 1000 types of anthocyanins in nature, all derived from 27 anthocyanidin aglycones that have different glycosylations and acylations. Malvidin is one of the most well-known anthocyanidins. Several studies, including those conducted on cell lines, animals, and humans, have suggested that malvidin and its glycosides possess anti-carcinogenic, diabetes-control, cardiovascular-disease-prevention, and brain-function-improvement properties. These health benefits are primarily attributed to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which are influenced by the molecular mechanisms related to the expression and modulation of critical genes. In this article, we review the available information on the biological activity of malvidin and its glycosides concerning their health-promoting effects.

Streamlined Efficient Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity of γ-[Glutamyl](n≥1)-tryptophan Peptides by Glutaminase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens

As a group of naturally occurring peptides in various foods, γ-glutamyl peptides possess a unique Kokumi taste and health benefits. However, few studies have focused on the functionality of γ-glutamyl peptides. In this study, the γ-[glutamyl] _{(n=1, 2, 3)}-tryptophan peptides were synthesized from a solution of glutamine (Gln) and tryptophan (Trp) employing L-glutaminase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Four different γ-glutamyl peptides were identified from the reaction mixture by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Under optimal conditions of pH 10, 37 °C, 3 h, 0.1 mol/L Gln: 0.1 mol/L Trp = 1:3, and glutaminase at 0.1% (m/v), the yields of γ-l-glutamyl-l-tryptophan (γ-EW), γ-l-glutamyl-γ-l-glutamyl-l-tryptophan (γ-EEW) and γ-l-glutamyl-γ-l-glutamyl-γ-l-glutamyl-l-tryptophan (γ-EEEW) were 51.02%, 26.12% and 1.91% respectively. The antioxidant properties of the reaction mixture and the two peptides (γ-EW, γ-EEW) identified from the reaction media were further compared. Results showed that γ-EW exhibited the highest DPPH^•, ABTS^•+ and O₂^•--scavenging activity (EC₅₀ = 0.2999 mg/mL, 67.6597 μg/mL and 5.99 mg/mL, respectively) and reducing power (EC₅₀ = 4.61 mg/mL), while γ-EEW demonstrated the highest iron-chelating activity (76.22%). Thus, the synthesized mixture may be used as a potential source of antioxidant peptides for food and nutraceutical applications.

Radical oxygen species: an important breakthrough point for botanical drugs to regulate oxidative stress and treat the disorder of glycolipid metabolism

Background: The incidence of glycolipid metabolic diseases is extremely high worldwide, which greatly hinders people's life expectancy and patients' quality of life. Oxidative stress (OS) aggravates the development of diseases in glycolipid metabolism. Radical oxygen species (ROS) is a key factor in the signal transduction of OS, which can regulate cell apoptosis and contribute to inflammation. Currently, chemotherapies are the main method to treat disorders of glycolipid metabolism, but this can lead to drug resistance and damage to normal organs. Botanical drugs are an important source of new drugs. They are widely found in nature with availability, high practicality, and low cost. There is increasing evidence that herbal medicine has definite therapeutic effects on glycolipid metabolic diseases. Objective: This study aims to provide a valuable method for the treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases with botanical drugs from the perspective of ROS regulation by botanical drugs and to further promote the development of effective drugs for the clinical treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases. Methods: Using herb*, plant medicine, Chinese herbal medicine, phytochemicals, natural medicine, phytomedicine, plant extract, botanical drug, ROS, oxygen free radicals, oxygen radical, oxidizing agent, glucose and lipid metabolism, saccharometabolism, glycometabolism, lipid metabolism, blood glucose, lipoprotein, triglyceride, fatty liver, atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes, dysglycemia, NAFLD, and DM as keywords or subject terms, relevant literature was retrieved from Web of Science and PubMed databases from 2013 to 2022 and was summarized. Results: Botanical drugs can regulate ROS by regulating mitochondrial function, endoplasmic reticulum, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and other signaling pathways to improve OS and treat glucolipid metabolic diseases. Conclusion: The regulation of ROS by botanical drugs is multi-mechanism and multifaceted. Both cell studies and animal experiments have demonstrated the effectiveness of botanical drugs in the treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases by regulating ROS. However, studies on safety need to be further improved, and more studies are needed to support the clinical application of botanical drugs.

Unbalanced Redox With Autophagy in Cardiovascular Disease

Precise redox balance is essential for the optimum health and physiological function of the human body. Furthermore, an unbalanced redox state is widely believed to be part of numerous diseases, ultimately resulting in death. In this review, we discuss the relationship between redox balance and cardiovascular disease (CVD). In various animal models, excessive oxidative stress has been associated with increased atherosclerotic plaque formation, which is linked to the inflammation status of several cell types. However, various antioxidants can defend against reactive oxidative stress, which is associated with an increased risk of CVD and mortality. The different cardiovascular effects of these antioxidants are presumably due to alterations in the multiple pathways that have been mechanistically linked to accelerated atherosclerotic plaque formation, macrophage activation, and endothelial dysfunction in animal models of CVD, as well as in in vitro cell culture systems. Autophagy is a regulated cell survival mechanism that removes dysfunctional or damaged cellular organelles and recycles the nutrients for the generation of energy. Furthermore, in response to atherogenic stress, such as the generation of reactive oxygen species, oxidized lipids, and inflammatory signaling between cells, autophagy protects against plaque formation. In this review, we characterize the broad spectrum of oxidative stress that influences CVD, summarize the role of autophagy in the content of redox balance-associated pathways in atherosclerosis, and discuss potential therapeutic approaches to target CVD by stimulating autophagy.

Acute oral toxicity, cognitive-enhancing and anti-lipid peroxidation efficacy, and qualitative phytochemistry of the aqueous aerial part extract of Launaea cornuta (Hochst. ex. Oliv. &Hiern) C. Jeffrey

At present, there is no cure for dementia or its related cognitive impairments. Available treatments only provide symptomatic relief and do not alter the disease's progression and they suffer serious drawbacks limiting their clinical use, hence the need for alternative therapies. Although Launaea cornuta has been used traditionally to treat cognitive deficits, its pharmacological efficacy and safety have not been empirically validated, prompting this study. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was examined in Swiss albino mice using the up-and-down procedure described by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline number 425. The Morris water maze technique was adopted in assessing cognitive-enhancing effects of the extract in ketamine-induced cognitive-impaired mice. The malondialdehyde concentrations in the whole brain of experimental mice involved in the MWM experiment were measured to determine the extract's anti-lipid peroxidation efficacy. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the extract was performed using standard procedures. Our results showed that the test extract was safe and did not cause any clinical signs of acute oral toxicity in mice at all doses (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg BW). Moreover, the extract significantly improved cognitive function in ketamine-induced cognitive-impaired mice in a dose-dependent manner, as indicated by reduced escape latency, navigation distance, and longer latency in the target quadrant during the probe trial. The extract also significantly reduced malondialdehyde concentrations in mice in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating its antioxidative stress efficacy. The studied extract contained various phytochemicals associated with cognitive enhancement and antioxidant efficacy, among other pharmacologic effects. Further empirical studies are needed to determine and characterise the extract's specific cognitive-enhancing compounds, specific mechanisms of action, and complete toxicity profiles.

Cardiomyocyte PAI-1 influences the cardiac transcriptome and limits the extent of cardiac fibrosis in response to left ventricular pressure overload

Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is a specific and rapid-acting inhibitor of endogenous plasminogen activators (uPA and tPA). The global PAI-1 knockout mice (PAI-1KO) develop age-dependent cardiac-selective fibrosis, and young global PAI-1KO mice exhibit augmented susceptibility to developing cardiac fibrosis in response to hypertension. Here, we tested the hypothesis that cardiomyocyte PAI-1 is necessary to provide cardioprotective effects in a left ventricular pressure overload-induced murine model of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis using cardiomyocyte-specific PAI-1 knockout (cmPAI-1KO) mice. The results revealed that cmPAI-1KO mice display significantly worse cardiac fibrosis than controls. To investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for these effects, genome-wide cardiac transcriptome analysis was performed. Loss of cardiomyocyte PAI-1 led to differential expression of 978 genes compared to controls in response to left ventricular pressure overload. Pathway enrichment analysis identified the inflammatory response, cell substrate adhesion, regulation of cytokine production, leukocyte migration, extracellular matrix organization, and cytokine-mediated signaling pathways as being significantly upregulated in cmPAI-1KO hearts. Conversely, specific epigenetic repressors, cation transmembrane transport, muscle system processes, and nitric oxide signaling were significantly downregulated in cmPAI-1KO hearts compared to control hearts in response to left ventricular pressure overload. Collectively, the present study provides strong evidence of the impact of cardiomyocyte PAI-1 in regulation of the transcriptome network involved in the cardiac stress response. In response to stress, the deregulatory impact of cardiomyocyte PAI-1 loss on the cardiac transcriptome may be the underlying cause of cardiac-selective accelerated fibrogenesis in global PAI-1-deficient mice.

Endothelial dysfunction due to eNOS uncoupling: molecular mechanisms as potential therapeutic targets

Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the most important molecules released by endothelial cells, and its antiatherogenic properties support cardiovascular homeostasis. Diminished NO bioavailability is a common hallmark of endothelial dysfunction underlying the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular disease. Vascular NO is synthesized by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) from the substrate L-arginine (L-Arg), with tetrahydrobiopterin (BH₄) as an essential cofactor. Cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, aging, or smoking increase vascular oxidative stress that strongly affects eNOS activity and leads to eNOS uncoupling. Uncoupled eNOS produces superoxide anion (O₂^-) instead of NO, thus becoming a source of harmful free radicals exacerbating the oxidative stress further. eNOS uncoupling is thought to be one of the major underlying causes of endothelial dysfunction observed in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases. Here, we discuss the main mechanisms of eNOS uncoupling, including oxidative depletion of the critical eNOS cofactor BH₄, deficiency of eNOS substrate L-Arg, or accumulation of its analog asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA), and eNOS S-glutathionylation. Moreover, potential therapeutic approaches that prevent eNOS uncoupling by improving cofactor availability, restoration of L-Arg/ADMA ratio, or modulation of eNOS S-glutathionylation are briefly outlined.

In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Erythroxylum cuneatum Leaf Extract on Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein-stimulated Human Aortic Endothelial Cells

Background

The oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes inflammation, which results in the expression of adhesion molecules and monocyte adhesion and migration. This eventually leads to the progression of atherosclerosis. Erythroxylum cuneatum (EC), locally known as “Chinta mula,” is used as traditional medicine in certain countries. However, the scientific evidence of its medicinal properties, particularly related to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still limited.

Objectives

This study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of EC leaf extract in protecting against atherosclerosis in vitro.

Materials and Methods

Human aortic endothelial cells (HAoECs) induced by oxidized LDL (oxLDL) were treated with comparable concentrations (40 and 80 µg/ml) of EC ethanol and acetone leaf extracts. The antioxidant activities were determined by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), ROS, and nitric oxide (NO) production assays. The anti-inflammatory effects of EC leaf extract were evaluated using monocyte adhesion and migration assays and the expression of adhesion molecules, namely, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and human vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1).

Results

Both EC extracts possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities against oxLDL-induced HAoECs, which were concentration-dependent. Acetone extract showed significant reduced TBARS levels and increased NO production compared to ethanol extract. It also caused a significant decrease in monocyte adhesion and expression of ICAM-1 as compared to ethanol extract.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that EC leaf extract is valuable in preventing atherogenesis. The superior effect of EC acetone extract warrants future studies to elucidate its mechanisms in the prevention of CVDs, particularly atherosclerosis.

Inflammageing and Cardiovascular System: Focus on Cardiokines and Cardiac-Specific Biomarkers

The term "inflammageing" was introduced in 2000, with the aim of describing the chronic inflammatory state typical of elderly individuals, which is characterized by a combination of elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, a high burden of comorbidities, an elevated risk of disability, frailty, and premature death. Inflammageing is a hallmark of various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and rapid progression to heart failure. The great experimental and clinical evidence accumulated in recent years has clearly demonstrated that early detection and counteraction of inflammageing is a promising strategy not only to prevent cardiovascular disease, but also to slow down the progressive decline of health that occurs with ageing. It is conceivable that beneficial effects of counteracting inflammageing should be most effective if implemented in the early stages, when the compensatory capacity of the organism is not completely exhausted. Early interventions and treatments require early diagnosis using reliable and cost-effective biomarkers. Indeed, recent clinical studies have demonstrated that cardiac-specific biomarkers (i.e., cardiac natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponins) are able to identify, even in the general population, the individuals at highest risk of progression to heart failure. However, further clinical studies are needed to better understand the usefulness and cost/benefit ratio of cardiac-specific biomarkers as potential targets in preventive and therapeutic strategies for early detection and counteraction of inflammageing mechanisms and in this way slowing the progressive decline of health that occurs with ageing.

Next-Generation Sequencing in the Assessment of the Transcriptomic Landscape of DNA Damage Repair Genes in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, Chronic Venous Disease and Lower Extremity Artery Disease

Vascular diseases are one of the most common causes of death and morbidity. Lower extremity artery disease (LEAD), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and chronic venous disease (CVD) belong to this group of conditions and exhibit various presentations and courses; thus, there is an urgent need for revealing new biomarkers for monitoring and potential treatment. Next-generation sequencing of mRNA allows rapid and detailed transcriptome analysis, allowing us to pinpoint the most pronounced differences between the mRNA expression profiles of vascular disease patients. Comparison of expression data of 519 DNA-repair-related genes obtained from mRNA next-generation sequencing revealed significant transcriptomic marks characterizing AAA, CVD and LEAD. Statistical, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), gene ontology (GO) and literature analyses were applied and highlighted many DNA repair and accompanying processes, such as cohesin functions, oxidative stress, homologous recombination, ubiquitin turnover, chromatin remodelling and DNA double-strand break repair. Surprisingly, obtained data suggest the contribution of genes engaged in the regulatory function of DNA repair as a key component that could be used to distinguish between analyzed conditions. DNA repair-related genes depicted in the presented study as dysregulated in AAA, CVD and LEAD could be utilized in the design of new biomarkers or therapies associated with these diseases.

Galectin-3 and Myeloperoxidase May Monitor Cancer-Therapy-Related Cardiotoxicity? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Galectin-3 and myeloperoxidase (MPO) are novel biomarkers in the field of cardio-oncology, but conflicting results have been reported. Hence, a meta-analysis was performed to assess the monitoring value of galectin-3 and MPO in cancer-therapy-related cardiotoxicity. PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI databases and ClinicalTrials.gov were queried. According to the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight studies with 1979 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The examination of the study's heterogeneity (I²), quality assessment and statistical analysis were performed by two reviewers. No significant differences in galectin-3 levels were noted before and after treatment (WMD = -0.10, 90% CI -6.06-5.85, I²: 99%), and a weaker relationship was observed between galectin-3 evaluations and cancer-therapy-related cardiotoxicity (HR = 1.39, 90% CI 0.97-1.98, I²: 0%). However, MPO levels were increased in patients post-treatment (SMD = 0.58, 90% CI 0.35-0.80, I²: 56%), and an increased risk of cardiotoxicity was associated with early pre-post MPO assessments (HR = 1.16, 90% CI 1.02-1.32, I²: 21%). Surprisingly, the MPO levels were a more effective indicator of the response to tumor treatment compared with the TnI (SMD = 2.46, 90% CI -0.26-5.19, I²: 96%) and NT-proBNP levels (SMD = 1.08, 90% CI -0.82-2.98, I²: 96%). In conclusion, our meta-analysis suggests that MPO may rep-resent a potential biomarker for the early detection of cardiotoxicity in current cardio-oncology practice, but the monitoring value of galectin-3 requires further study.

Antioxidant Supplementation in Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases: What Have We Learned from Studies on Alpha-Tocopherol?

Oxidative stress has been proposed as a key contributor to lifestyle- and age-related diseases. Because free radicals play an important role in various processes such as immune responses and cellular signaling, the body possesses an arsenal of different enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense mechanisms. Oxidative stress is, among others, the result of an imbalance between the production of various reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense mechanisms including vitamin E (α-tocopherol) as a non-enzymatic antioxidant. Dietary vitamins, such as vitamin C and E, can also be taken in as supplements. It has been postulated that increasing antioxidant levels through supplementation may delay and/or ameliorate outcomes of lifestyle- and age-related diseases that have been linked to oxidative stress. Although supported by many animal experiments and observational studies, randomized clinical trials in humans have failed to demonstrate any clinical benefit from antioxidant supplementation. Nevertheless, possible explanations for this discrepancy remain underreported. This review aims to provide an overview of recent developments and novel research techniques used to clarify the existing controversy on the benefits of antioxidant supplementation in health and disease, focusing on α-tocopherol as antioxidant. Based on the currently available literature, we propose that examining the difference between antioxidant activity and capacity, by considering the catabolism of antioxidants, will provide crucial knowledge on the preventative and therapeutical use of antioxidant supplementation in oxidative stress-related diseases.

ROS: Basic Concepts, Sources, Cellular Signaling, and its Implications in Aging Pathways

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are bioproducts of cellular metabolism. There is a range of molecules with oxidizing properties known as ROS. Despite those molecules being implied negatively in aging and numerous diseases, their key role in cellular signaling is evident. ROS control several biological processes such as inflammation, proliferation, and cell death. The redox signaling underlying these cellular events is one characteristic of the new generation of scientists aimed at defining the role of ROS in the cellular environment. The control of redox potential, which includes the balance of the sources of ROS and the antioxidant system, implies an important target for understanding the cells' fate derived from redox signaling. In this review, we summarized the chemical, the redox balance, the signaling, and the implications of ROS in biological aging.

Associations of Hypertriglyceridemia Onset Age With Cardiovascular Disease and All-Cause Mortality in Adults: A Cohort Study

Background Limited studies have involved new-onset hypertriglyceridemia, and this study was to evaluate the associations of hypertriglyceridemia onset age with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and all-cause mortality. Methods and Results This population-based prospective study enrolled 98 779 participants free of hypertriglyceridemia and CVD at baseline in the Kailuan study initiated in June 2006. All participants underwent health checkups biennially until December 2017, and a total of 13 832 participants developed new hypertriglyceridemia. A 1:1 age- (±1 year) and sex-matched analysis was applied to select control subject of the same year for each new-onset case. There were 13 056 case-control pairs included. The total follow-up time was 179 409 person-years, with a median follow-up time of 7.0 years. Primary outcomes were CVD and all-cause mortality, and hazard ratios were estimated after adjustment for baseline characteristics. A total of 807 incident CVD events and 600 all-cause mortality events were documented. After multivariable adjustment, participants with hypertriglyceridemia onset age <45 years had the highest risk compared with matched controls, with hazard ratios of 2.61 (95% CI, 1.59-4.27) for CVD, 4.69 (95% CI, 2.34-9.40) for all-cause mortality, 2.23 (95% CI, 0.67-7.38) for myocardial infarction, and 2.68 (95% CI, 1.56-4.62) for stroke. The risk estimates gradually decreased with each decade increase in the onset age of hypertriglyceridemia. Conclusions Among Chinese adults, hypertriglyceridemia identified at an earlier onset age was associated with higher risks for CVD and all-cause mortality.

Broccoli Sprouts Promote Sex-Dependent Cardiometabolic Health and Longevity in Long-Evans Rats

Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are potential candidates to prevent age-related chronic diseases. Broccoli sprouts (BrSp) are a rich source of sulforaphane-a bioactive metabolite known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We tested the effect of chronic BrSp feeding on age-related decline in cardiometabolic health and lifespan in rats. Male and female Long-Evans rats were fed a control diet with or without dried BrSp (300 mg/kg body weight, 3 times per week) from 4 months of age until death. Body weight, body composition, blood pressure, heart function, and glucose and insulin tolerance were measured at 10, 16, 20, and 22 months of age. Behavioral traits were also examined at 18 months of age. BrSp feeding prolonged life span in females, whereas in males the positive effects on longevity were more pronounced in a subgroup of males (last 25% of survivors). Despite having modest effects on behavior, BrSp profoundly affected cardiometabolic parameters in a sex-dependent manner. BrSp-fed females had a lower body weight and visceral adiposity while BrSp-fed males exhibited improved glucose tolerance and reduced blood pressure when compared to their control counterparts. These findings highlight the sex-dependent benefits of BrSp on improving longevity and delaying cardiometabolic decline associated with aging in rats.

Water-Soluble Tomato Concentrate, a Potential Antioxidant Supplement, Can Attenuate Platelet Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Crossover Clinical Trial

Increased oxidative stress and platelet apoptotic in middle-aged and elderly adults are important risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Therefore, it is of great significance to control the oxidative stress and platelet apoptosis in middle-aged and elderly adults. Previous acute clinical trials have shown that water-soluble tomato concentrate (WSTC) from fresh tomatoes could exert antiplatelet benefits after 3 h or 7 h, but its effects on platelet apoptosis and oxidative stress are still unknown, especially in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults. This current study aimed to examine the efficacies of WSTC on platelet apoptosis and oxidative stress in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults via a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial (10 weeks in total). A total of 52 healthy middle-aged and elderly adults completed this trial. The results showed that WSTC could increase the serum total antioxidant capacity levels (p < 0.05) and decrease the serum malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05) after a 4-week WSTC supplementation in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults. Platelet endogenous reactive oxygen species generation (p < 0.05), mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation (p < 0.05) and phosphatidylserine exposure (p < 0.05) were attenuated. In addition, our present study also found that WSTC could inhibit platelet aggregation and activation induced by collagen or ADP after intervention (p < 0.05), while having no effects on adverse events (p > 0.05). The results suggest that WSTC can inhibit oxidative stress and its related platelet apoptosis, which may provide a basis for the primary prevention of WSTC in ASCVD.

Exhaled Aldehydes as Biomarkers for Lung Diseases: A Narrative Review

Breath analysis provides great potential as a fast and non-invasive diagnostic tool for several diseases. Straight-chain aliphatic aldehydes were repeatedly detected in the breath of patients suffering from lung diseases using a variety of methods, such as mass spectrometry, ion mobility spectrometry, or electro-chemical sensors. Several studies found increased concentrations of exhaled aldehydes in patients suffering from lung cancer, inflammatory and infectious lung diseases, and mechanical lung injury. This article reviews the origin of exhaled straight-chain aliphatic aldehydes, available detection methods, and studies that found increased aldehyde exhalation in lung diseases.

Carotenoids in Human SkinIn Vivo: Antioxidant and Photo-Protectant Role against External and Internal Stressors

The antioxidant system of the human body plays a crucial role in maintaining redox homeostasis and has an important protective function. Carotenoids have pronounced antioxidant properties in the neutralization of free radicals. In human skin, carotenoids have a high concentration in the stratum corneum (SC)-the horny outermost layer of the epidermis, where they accumulate within lipid lamellae. Resonance Raman spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy are optical methods that are used to non-invasively determine the carotenoid concentration in the human SC in vivo. It was shown by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy that carotenoids support the entire antioxidant status of the human SC in vivo by neutralizing free radicals and thus, counteracting the development of oxidative stress. This review is devoted to assembling the kinetics of the carotenoids in the human SC in vivo using non-invasive optical and spectroscopic methods. Factors contributing to the changes of the carotenoid concentration in the human SC and their influence on the antioxidant status of the SC in vivo are summarized. The effect of chemotherapy on the carotenoid concentration of the SC in cancer patients is presented. A potential antioxidant-based pathomechanism of chemotherapy-induced hand-foot syndrome and a method to reduce its frequency and severity are discussed.

The Effect of Fasting on Oxidative Stress in the Vital Organs of New Zealand White Rabbit

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is defined as the condition in which balance between the synthesis and detoxification of reactive oxygen species in cells is disrupted. This research explored the effects of intermittent and prolonged fasting on malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl, reduced glutathione (GSH), and specific activity of catalase as biomarkers for oxidative stress in hearts, brains, and kidneys of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits.

METHODS

Fifteen NZW rabbits were divided into control, intermittent fasting (IF), and prolonged fasting (PF) groups. The controls were fed ad lib. IF and PF groups were fasted for 16 and 40 hours, respectively, followed by eight hours of non-fasting, for six days and were sacrificed on the 7^th day. One hundred mg of heart, brain, and kidney tissues were homogenized in 1 ml of phosphate-buffered saline. MDA, carbonyl, GSH, and catalase were analyzed by spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and post hoc test.

RESULTS

In heart, MDA was significantly greater in the control than in the IF and PF groups. In brain, GSH was greater in the IF than in the PF and control groups. Also, in brain, catalase specific activity was significantly greater in the control than in the IF and PF groups. In kidney, catalase specific activity was significantly less in the PF than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The effect of fasting on oxidative stress in various organs showed various responses, however fasting reduced oxidative stress based on MDA and GSH levels in the heart and brain, respectively.

Sirtuin1 inhibitor attenuates hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats: role of Giα proteins and nitroxidative stress

BACKGROUND

We recently showed that vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) exhibit overexpression of Sirtuin1 (Sirt1) that contributes to the enhanced expression of Giα proteins implicated in the development of hypertension in SHR.

METHOD

The present study investigated if the inhibition of Sirt1 could also ameliorate hypertension in SHR and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. For this study, a selective inhibitor of Sirt1, EX-527 (5 mg/kg of body weight), was injected intraperitoneally into 8-week-old SHR and age-matched Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats twice per week for 3 weeks. The blood pressure (BP) and heart rate was measured twice a week by the CODA noninvasive tail cuff method.

RESULTS

The high BP and augmented heart rate in SHR was significantly attenuated by EX-527 treatment, which was associated with the suppression of the overexpression of Sirt1 and Giα proteins in heart, VSMC and aorta. In addition, the enhanced levels of superoxide anion, NADPH oxidase activity, overexpression of NADPH oxidase subunits and FOXO1 were attenuated and the decreased levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nitric oxide and increased levels of peroxynitrite (ONOO-) and tyrosine nitration in VSMC from SHR were restored to control levels by EX-527 treatment. Furthermore, knockdown of FOXO1 by siRNA also attenuated the overexpression of Giα-2 and NADPH oxidase subunit proteins and restored the decreased expression of eNOS in VSMC from SHR.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the inhibition of overexpressed Sirt1 and its target FOXO1 through decreasing the enhanced levels of Giα proteins and nitro-oxidative stress attenuates the high BP in SHR.

Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress Tethered to Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a broad term that incorporated a group of conditions that affect the blood vessels and the heart. CVD is a foremost cause of fatalities around the world. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in CVD; however, oxidative stress plays a vital role in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress occurs when the concentration of oxidants exceeds the potency of antioxidants within the body while producing reactive nitrogen species (RNS). ROS generated by oxidative stress disrupts cell signaling, DNA damage, lipids, and proteins, thereby resulting in inflammation and apoptosis. Mitochondria is the primary source of ROS production within cells. Increased ROS production reduces nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, which elevates vasoconstriction within the arteries and contributes to the development of hypertension. ROS production has also been linked to the development of atherosclerotic plaque. Antioxidants can decrease oxidative stress in the body; however, various therapeutic drugs have been designed to treat oxidative stress damage due to CVD. The present review provides a detailed narrative of the oxidative stress and ROS generation with a primary focus on the oxidative stress biomarker and its association with CVD. We have also discussed the complex relationship between inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in CVD as well as oxidative stress-induced obesity in CVD. Finally, we discussed the role of antioxidants in reducing oxidative stress in CVD.

Liquiritigenin protects against myocardial ischemic by inhibiting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and L-type Ca2+ channels

Liquiritigenin (Lq) offers cytoprotective effects against various cardiac injuries, but its beneficial effects on myocardial ischemic (MI) injury and the related mechanisms remain unclear. In the in vivo study, an animal model of MI was induced by intraperitoneal injection of isoproterenol (Iso, 85 mg/kg). ECG, heart rate, serum levels of CK and CK-MB, histopathological changes, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were all measured. In vitro, H9c2 cells were divided into four groups and treated for 24 hr with liquiritigenin (30 μmol/L and 100 μmol/L) followed with CoCl₂ (800 μmol/L) for another 24 hr. Cell viability, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, and intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺ ]_i ) were then assessed. The L-type Ca²⁺ current (I_Ca-L ) was detected using a patch clamp technique on isolated rat ventricular myocytes. The myocyte contraction and Ca²⁺ transients were measured using an IonOptix detection system. The remarkable cardiac injury and generation of intracellular ROS induced by Iso were alleviated via treatment with Lq. CoCl₂ administration induced cell apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and Ca²⁺ overload in H9c2; Lq reduces these deleterious effects of CoCl₂ . Meanwhile, Lq blocked I_Ca-L in a dose-dependent manner. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration of Lq was 110.87 μmol/L. Lq reversibly reduced the amplitude of cell contraction as well as the Ca²⁺ transients. The results show that Lq protects against MI injury by antioxidation, antiapoptosis, counteraction mitochondrial dysfunction, and inhibition of I_Ca-L , thus damping intracellular Ca²⁺ .

Relationship of cumulative exposure to the triglyceride-glucose index with ischemic stroke: a 9-year prospective study in the Kailuan cohort

BACKGROUND

A single measurement of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a simple and reliable surrogate marker of insulin resistance, is associated with ischemic stroke. However, evidence for an effect of a long-term elevation in TyG index on ischemic stroke is limited. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship between cumulative TyG index exposure and the risk of ischemic stroke.

METHODS

A total of 54,098 participants in the Kailuan study who had not experienced ischemic stroke underwent three measurements of fasting blood glucose and triglycerides during 2006-2007, 2008-2009, and 2010-2011. Cumulative exposure to TyG index was calculated as the weighted sum of the mean TyG index value for each time interval (value × time). Participants were placed into four groups according to the quartile of the weighted mean: Q1 group, < 32.01; Q2 group, 32.01-34.45; Q3 group, 34.45-37.47; and Q4 group, ≥ 37.47. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the relationships of the cumulative TyG index with incident ischemic stroke by calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

RESULTS

There were 2083 incident ischemic stroke events over the 9 years of follow-up. The risk of ischemic stroke increased with the quartile of cumulative TyG index. After adjustment for multiple potential confounders, participants in groups Q4, Q3, and Q2 had significantly higher risks of ischemic stroke, with HRs (95% CIs) of 1.30 (1.12-1.52), 1.26 (1.09-1.45), and 1.09 (0.94-1.27), respectively (P_trend < 0.05), compared with the Q1 group. The longer duration of high TyG index exposure was significantly associated with increased ischemic stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

High cumulative TyG index is associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke. This finding implies that monitoring and the maintenance of an appropriate TyG index may be useful for the prevention of ischemic stroke.

Clinical application of intermittent fasting for weight loss: progress and future directions

Intermittent fasting diets have become very popular in the past few years, as they can produce clinically significant weight loss. These diets can be defined, in the simplest of terms, as periods of fasting alternating with periods of eating. The most studied forms of intermittent fasting include: alternate day fasting (0-500 kcal per 'fast day' alternating with ad libitum intake on 'feast days'); the 5:2 diet (two fast days and five feast days per week) and time-restricted eating (only eating within a prescribed window of time each day). Despite the recent surge in the popularity of fasting, only a few studies have examined the health benefits of these diets in humans. The goal of this Review is to summarize these preliminary findings and give insights into the effects of intermittent fasting on body weight and risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases in humans. This Review also assesses the safety of these regimens, and offers some practical advice for how to incorporate intermittent fasting diets into everyday life. Recommendations for future research are also presented.

Nitrotyrosine, Nitrated Lipoproteins, and Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: What Do We Know and What Remains to Be Explained?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a strong risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are the most important cause of morbidity and mortality in the population of patients living with DM. DM is associated with lipid metabolism disorders characterized by a decrease in the high-density lipoprotein blood concentration, an increase in the triglyceride blood concentration, and the presence of modified lipoproteins not routinely measured in clinical practice. Nitrated lipoproteins are produced by the nitration of the tyrosyl residues of apolipoproteins by myeloperoxidase. There is some evidence from the research conducted showing that nitrated lipoproteins may play a role in the development of cardiovascular dysfunction, but this issue requires further investigation. It was found that the nitration of HDL particles was associated with a decrease in caspase-3 and paraoxonase-1 activity, as well as a decrease in the activity of cholesterol transport via ABCA1, which reduces the protective effect of HDL particles on the cardiovascular system. Less information has been collected about the role of nitrated LDL particles. Thus far, much more information has been obtained on the relationship of nitrotyrosine expression with the presence of cardiovascular risk factors and the development of cardiovascular dysfunction. The purpose of this paper is to provide an extensive review of the literature and to present the most important information on the current state of knowledge on the association between nitrotyrosine and nitrated lipoproteins with dysfunction of the cardiovascular system, especially in patients living with DM. Moreover, directions for future research in this area were discussed.