Effect of heat exposure on prostaglandin production and expression of COX-2, PGES, PGFS, ITGAV and LGALS15 mRNAs in endometrial epithelial cells of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

BACKGROUND

Early embryonic mortality is one of the major intriguing factors of reproductive failure that causes considerable challenge to the mammalian cell biologists. Heat stress is the major factor responsible for reduced fertility in farm animals. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of heat stress on prostaglandin production and the expression of key genes, including COX-2, PGES, PGFS, ITGAV and LGALS15, in buffalo endometrial epithelial cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Buffalo genitalia containing ovaries with corpus luteum (CL) were collected immediately post-slaughter. The stages of the estrous cycle were determined based on macroscopic observations of the ovaries. Uterine lumens of the mid-luteal phase (days 6-10 of the estrous cycle) were washed and treated with trypsin to isolate epithelial cells, which were then cultured at control temperature (38.5 °C for 24 h) or exposed to elevated temperatures [38.5 °C for 6 h, 40.5 °C for 18 h; Heat Stressed (HS)]. The supernatant and endometrial epithelial cells were collected at various time points (0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h) from both the control and treatment groups. Although heat stress (40.5 °C) significantly (P < 0.05) increased COX-2, PGES, and PGFS transcripts in epithelial cells but it did not affect the in vitro production of PGF2α and PGE2. The expression of ITGAV and LGALS15 mRNAs in endometrial epithelial cells remained unaltered under elevated temperature conditions.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that elevated temperature did not directly modulate prostaglandin production but, it promoted the expression of COX-2, PGES and PGFS mRNA in buffalo endometrial epithelial cells.

Anticancer activity and other biomedical properties of β-sitosterol: Bridging phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence for future translational approaches

Sterols, including β-sitosterol, are essential components of cellular membranes in both plant and animal cells. Despite being a major phytosterol in various plant materials, comprehensive scientific knowledge regarding the properties of β-sitosterol and its potential applications is essential for scholarly pursuits and utilization purposes. β-sitosterol shares similar chemical characteristics with cholesterol and exhibits several pharmacological activities without major toxicity. This study aims to bridge the gap between phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence of β-sitosterol, focusing on its anticancer activity and other biomedical properties. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of β-sitosterol's potential for future translational approaches. A thorough examination of the literature was conducted to gather relevant information on the biological properties of β-sitosterol, particularly its anticancer therapeutic potential. Various databases were searched, including PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using appropriate keywords. Studies investigating the effects of β-sitosterol on different types of cancer were analyzed, focusing on mechanisms of action, pharmacological screening, and chemosensitizing properties. Modern pharmacological screening studies have revealed the potential anticancer therapeutic properties of β-sitosterol against various types of cancer, including leukemia, lung, stomach, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer. β-sitosterol has demonstrated chemosensitizing effects on cancer cells, interfering with multiple cell signaling pathways involved in proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, survival, metastasis invasion, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Structural derivatives of β-sitosterol have also shown anti-cancer effects. However, research in the field of drug delivery and the detailed mode of action of β-sitosterol-mediated anticancer activities remains limited. β-sitosterol, as a non-toxic compound with significant pharmacological potential, exhibits promising anticancer effects against various cancer types. Despite being relatively less potent than conventional cancer chemotherapeutics, β-sitosterol holds potential as a safe and effective nutraceutical against cancer. Further comprehensive studies are recommended to explore the biological properties of β-sitosterol, including its mode of action, and develop novel formulations for its potential use in cancer treatment. This review provides a foundation for future investigations and highlights the need for further research on β-sitosterol as a potent superfood in combating cancer.

Influence of phenolic flavonols (Kaempferol, Querectin and Myricetin) on the survival and growth of ovine preantral follicles and granulosa cells cultured in vitro

Study was carried out to examine the influence of plant bioactive compounds [Kaempferol (KAE), Querectin (QUE) and Myricetin (MYR)] on the survival and growth parameters of cultured ovine preantral follicles (PFs) granulosa cells (GCs) and expression of some key developmental genes. Ovine PFs were isolated from slaughterhouse derived ovaries and KAE, QUE and MYR were supplemented to the standard culture medium of GCs and PFs at concentrations of 0, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 μM and cultured for 5 and 7 days respectively. PFs morphological and functional parameters [follicle and enclosed oocyte growth rate, viability of follicles, antrum formation rate, oocyte maturation rate, estradiol concentration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production] and GC growth parameters (metabolic activity, viability rate, cell number increment, ROS production) were measured after culture. Significantly higher PF growth, viability rate and estradiol concentration was observed at 10 μM, 25 μM and 10 μM concentration of KAE, MYR and QUE respectively compared to the control. ROS production was significantly decreased in the PF culture media treated with 10 μM KAE or MYR 25 μM or 10 μM QUE compared to those observed in the control group. Likewise, metabolic activity of GCs, viability rate and cell number increment cultured with KAE, MYR and QUE was significantly higher at 10, 25 and 10 μM concentrations respectively compared to those observed in control group. ROS production was significantly lower in the GC cultured with KAE, MYR and QUE at 10, 25 and 10 μM concentrations respectively compared to the control. Based on the results of the growth parameters, gene expression of PFs and GCs were studied by qPCR at selected concentrations (KAE, MYR and QUE at 10, 25 and 10 μM concentrations respectively) in the cultured PFs and GCs. Gene expression of GDF9, FGF2, CYP19A1 was significantly higher and Bax, Bcl2 expression was significantly lower in the PFs and GCs cultured with the KAE or QUE at 10 μM concentration. KAE, MYR and QUE have dose dependant responses on PFs and GCs morphological and functional parameters; however, KAE is more potent amongst the three in augmenting the ovarian functions.

Spatio-temporal dynamics and distributional trend analysis of African swine fever outbreaks (2020-2021) in North-East India

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious, notifiable, and fatal hemorrhagic viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs. The disease was reported for the first time in India during 2020, resulted in serious outbreaks and economic loss in North-Eastern (NE) parts, since 47% of the Indian pig population is distributed in the NE region. The present study focused on analyzing the spatial autocorrelation, spatio-temporal patterns, and directional trend of the disease in NE India during 2020-2021. The ASF outbreak data (2020-2021) were collected from the offices of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services in seven NE states of India to identify the potential clusters, spatio-temporal aggregation, temporal distribution, disease spread, density maps, and risk zones. Between 2020 and 2021, a total of 321 ASF outbreaks were recorded, resulting in 59,377 deaths. The spatial pattern analysis of the outbreak data (2020-2021) revealed that ASF outbreaks were clustered in 2020 (z score = 2.20, p < .01) and 2021 (z score = 4.89, p < .01). Spatial autocorrelation and Moran's I value (0.05-0.06 in 2020 and 2021) revealed the spatial clustering and spatial relationship between the outbreaks. The hotspot analysis identified districts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and districts of Mizoram, Tripura as significant hotspots in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The spatial-scan statistics with a purely spatial and purely temporal analysis revealed six and one significant clusters, respectively. Retrospective unadjusted, temporal, and spatially adjusted space-time analysis detected five, five, and two statistically significant (p < .01) clusters, respectively. The directional trend analysis identified the direction of disease distribution as northeast-southwest (2020) and north-south (2021), indicate the possibility of ASF introduction to India from China. The high-risk zones and spatio-temporal pattern of ASF outbreaks identified in the present study can be used as a guide for deploying proper prevention, optimizing resource allocation and disease control measures in NE Indian states.

Investigation of Antioxidant Activity, Myco-Chemical Content, and GC-MS Based Molecular Docking Analysis of Bioactive Chemicals from Amanita konajensis (Agaricomycetes), a Tribal Myco-Food from India

In humans, a wide range of health disorders have been induced due to an imbalanced metabolism and an excess generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Different biological properties found in mushrooms seem to be the reason for their customary use as a favourite delicacy. Therefore, exploration of wild edible mushrooms as a source of various biological compounds is gaining much importance today. Amanita konajensis, one of the underutilized macrofungi popularly consumed in Eastern India, demands a systematic study of its medicinal values. The study aims to explore the myco-chemical contents of A. konajensis ethanolic extract (EtAK1) and screen their antioxidant potency through various in vitro assays. GC-MS analysis identified the chemical components of EtAK1. Further, structure-based virtual screening of the identified compounds was analysed for drug-like properties and molecular docking with the human p38 MAPK protein, a potent targeting pathway for human lung cancer. The morpho-molecular features proved the authenticity of the collected mushroom. The screening assays showed that EtAK1 was abundant in flavonoids, followed by phenolics, β-carotene, and lycopene, and had strong antioxidant activity with EC50 values of 640-710 μg/mL. The GC-MS analyses of EtAK1 identified the occurrence of 19 bioactive compounds in the mushroom. In silico analysis revealed that anthraergostatetraenol p-chlorobenzoate, one of the compounds identified, displayed high binding affinity (ΔG = -10.6 kcal/mol) with human p38 MAPK. The outcome of this study will pave the way for the invention of myco-medicine using A. konajensis, which may lead to a novel drug for human lung cancer.

A review for cancer treatment with mushroom metabolites through targeting mitochondrial signaling pathway: In vitro and in vivo evaluations, clinical studies and future prospects for mycomedicine

Resistance to apoptosis stands as a roadblock to the successful pharmacological execution of anticancer drug effect. A comprehensive insight into apoptotic signaling pathways and an understanding of the mechanisms of apoptosis resistance are crucial to unveil new drug targets. At this juncture, researchers are heading towards natural sources in particular, mushroom as their potential drugs leads to being the reliable source of potent bioactive compounds. Given the continuous increase in cancer cases, the potent anticancer efficacy of mushrooms has inevitably become a fascinating object to researchers due to their higher safety margin and multitarget. This review aimed to collect and summarize all the available scientific data on mushrooms from their extracts to bioactive molecules in order to suggest their anticancer attributes via a mitochondrion -mediated intrinsic signaling mechanism. Compiled data revealed that bioactive components of mushrooms including polysaccharides, sterols and terpenoids as well as extracts prepared using 15 different solvents from 53 species could be effective in the supportive treatment of 20 various cancers. The underlying therapeutic mechanisms of the studied mushrooms are explored in this review through diverse and complementary investigations: in vitro assays, pre-clinical studies and clinical randomized controlled trials. The processes mainly involved were ROS production, mitochondrial membrane dysfunction, and action of caspase 3, caspase 9, XIAP, cIAP, p53, Bax, and Bcl-2. In summary, the study provides facts pertaining to the potential beneficial effect of mushroom extracts and their active compounds against various types of cancer and is shedding light on the underlying targeted signaling pathways.

Effect of α-Tocopherol in the vitrification medium on the viability, lipid peroxidation, expression of key developmental, apoptotic and stress-related genes in ovine secondary follicles

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of α-tocopherol on viability, lipid peroxidation, and the expression of apoptosis, stress, and development related genes in the vitrified sheep secondary follicles. Ovarian secondary follicles (200-300 μm) were isolated and distributed separately to the vitrification treatment and supplemented with 5 mM, 10 mM, 20 mM and 30 mM of α-tocopherol (while the control fresh group was without vitrification and supplementation of α-tocopherol). After a week, the follicles were thawed and evaluated for follicular viability by trypan blue dye exclusion method, lipid peroxidation and gene expression studies. The results showed that the vitrification with 10 and 20 mM of α-tocopherol positively affected (P<0.05) the viability of vitrified follicles in comparison with vitrified ones without α-tocopherol but the higher concentration of α-tocopherol, i.e., 30 mM negatively affected the viability (P<0.05) in comparison with the 10 and 20 mM of α-tocopherol groups. The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the vitrified without α-tocopherol group in comparison to the vitrified with 20 mM of α-tocopherol group. The expression of apoptotic-related gene, BCL2L1 was significantly higher in 10 mM α-tocopherol group compared to the control fresh and CASPASE 3, 9 expressions were significantly higher in the vitrified group when compared to the vitrified with 10 mM α-tocopherol group. Expressions of BAX, BAD, BAK, BMP-15 and GDF-9 showed no significant difference among the groups. The mRNA expression of SOD1 was significantly higher in the vitrified without α-tocopherol group when compared to other groups. We conclude that the supplementation of 10 and 20 mM α-tocopherol in vitrification solution was the efficient vitrification procedure for the vitrification of ovine secondary follicles.

Antioxidants supplementation improves the quality of in vitro produced ovine embryos with amendments in key development gene expressions

The present study assessed the effects of supplementation of different antioxidants on oocyte maturation, embryo production, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and expression of key developmental genes. In this study, using ovine as an animal model, we tested the hypothesis that antioxidant supplementation enhanced the developmental competence of oocytes. Ovine oocytes aspirated from local abattoir-derived ovaries were subjected to IVM with different concentrations of antioxidants [(Melatonin, Ascorbic acid (Vit C), alpha-tocopherol (Vit E), Sodium selenite (SS)]. Oocytes matured without any antioxidant supplementation were used as controls. The oocytes were assessed for maturation rates and ROS levels. Further, embryo production rates in terms of cleavage, blastocysts and total cell numbers were evaluated after performing in vitro fertilization. Real-Time PCR analysis was used to evaluate the expression of stress related gene (SOD-1), growth related (GDF-9, BMP-15), and apoptosis-related genes (BCL-2 and BAX). We observed that maturation rates were significantly higher in alpha-tocopherol (100 μM; 92.4%) groups followed by melatonin (30 μM; 89.1%) group. However, blastocyst rates in ascorbic acid (100 μM; 19.5%), melatonin (30 μM; 18.4%), alpha-tocopherol (100 μM; 18.2%), and sodium selenite (20 μM; 16.9%) groups were significantly higher (P 0.05) than that observed in the control groups. Total cell numbers in blastocysts in the melatonin, ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol groups were significantly higher than those observed in sodium selenite and control groups. ROS production was reduced in groups treated with melatonin (30 μM), vitamin C (100 μM), sodium selenite (20 μM) and α-tocopherol (200 μM) compared with that observed in the control group. Supplementation of antioxidants caused the alterations in mRNA expression of growth, stress, and apoptosis related gene expression in matured oocytes. The results recommend that antioxidants alpha-tocopherol (200 μM), sodium selenite (40 μM), melatonin (30 μM) and ascorbic acid (100 μM) during IVM reduced the oxidative stress by decreasing ROS levels in oocytes, thus improving embryo quantity and quality.

Cardiac sympathetic afferent denervation reduces matrix metalloproteinase expression and improves cardiac remodeling in rats post myocardial infarction

 

In a previous study from our laboratory, we demonstrated that chronic and selective cardiac sympathetic afferent (spinal) denervation at the time of myocardial infarction (MI) using epicardial application of resiniferatoxin (RTX), a neuronal toxin capable of inducing rapid degeneration of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-expressing afferent neurons and fibers, markedly reduced the cardiac remodeling process 9–11 weeks post-MI in rats. This included reduced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and apoptosis. Here, we further investigated the effect of epicardial application of RTX at the time of MI on cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) and remodeling post-MI. Echocardiographic and morphologic data demonstrated that, compared to MI+vehicle, MI+RTX exhibited a significantly slower LV chamber dilation (6-week echocardiographic data: left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, 10.7±0.2 vs. 9.6±0.3 mm; left ventricular end-systolic diameter: 8.8±0.2 vs. 7.8±0.3 mm; MI+vehicle vs. MI+RTX, n=18, p&lt;0.05; mean±SE). Scanning electron microscopy showed that RTX reduced collagen deposition in the peri-infarct area in post-MI rats. Western blot and zymography were used to further evaluate the effect of RTX application on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and activity, which is responsible for degrading ECM and contributing to cardiac dilation post MI. Our data suggest time-dependent increases in MMP expression in infarcted hearts post MI. RTX application largely prevented the increase in MMP9 but not MMP2, 4 weeks post-MI. RTX prevented both increased MMP2 and MMP9 activities in the peri-infarct myocardium at 8–10 weeks post-MI. We further investigated the effect of RTX application on MI-induced cardiac inflammation, which has been reported as an upstream mechanism triggering MMP activation post-MI. The data show that RTX largely abolished MI-induced plasma extravasation and reduced macrophage infiltration and cardiac cytokine content in the peri-infarct or remote myocardium of post-MI rats. These data suggest that cardiac sympathetic afferent denervation at the time of MI exerts a local anti-inflammatory effect and reduces ECM remodeling by preventing excessive MMP activation in post-MI rats.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): National Institutes of Health Grant HL126796

Effect of different vitrification protocols on post thaw viability and gene expression of ovine preantral follicles

The aim of the present study was to establish a vitrification protocol for ovine preantral follicles, which can retain viability after thawing and to evaluate the impact of different vitrification treatments on apoptosis and development-related gene expression. Preantral follicles were isolated from cortical slices of ovaries by the mechanical method of isolation. The isolated preantral follicles (200-300 μm) were randomly assigned into four groups. Group1 - Control Fresh preantral follicles (256 follicles); Group 2- Vitrification treatment A (259 follicles) (Vitrification solution 1 (VS1) - Fetal bovine serum (FBS)10%, Ethylene glycol (EG):1.8 M, Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO): 1.4 M, Sucrose-0.3 M for 4 min; VS2- FBS10%, EG:4.5 M, DMSO: 3.5 M, Sucrose:0.3 M for 45 s), Group 3 - Vitr. treatment B (235 follicles) (VS1-FBS 20%, EG:1.3 M, DMSO1.05 M for 15 min, VS2- FBS 20%, EG:2.7 M, DMSO:2.1 M for 5 min) and Group 4-Vitrification treatment C (248 follicles) (VS1-Glycerol(Gly):1.2 M for 3 min, VS2- Gly:1.2 M, EG:3.6 M for 3 min, VS3- Gly3M, EG: 4.5 M for 1 min). Preantral follicles were placed in corresponding vitrification treatments and later plunged immediately into liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After a week, the follicles were thawed and analyzed for follicular viability by trypan blue dye exclusion method as well as for gene expression. The results showed that the low concentration of cryoprotectants (vitrification treatment B) negatively affected the viability of preantral follicles in comparison with control follicles. There was no significant difference in the viability rates among the Control (87%), Treatment A (79%) and Treatment C (75%). The percentage of viable preantral follicles (73%) derived from Treatment B was significantly decreased (P<0.05%) in comparison to that of control. The expression of apoptotic gene BAK was higher in the vitrification treatment B group. Expressions of the other apoptosis-related genes i.e. Bcl2L1, BAD, BAX, Caspase 3, and Annexin showed no significant difference among the groups. The expression pattern of development competence genes GDF-9 and BMP-15 were higher (P < 0.05) in vitrification treatment A and C, respectively. Expression of NOBOX gene was significantly increased in preantral follicles with Vitrification treatment B compared to the control group. We conclude that both the Vitrification treatment A and Treatment C were the efficient vitrification treatment methods for the vitrification of ovine preantral follicles.

A natural derivative from ethnomedicinal mushroom potentiates apoptosis, autophagy and attenuates cell migration, via fine tuning the Akt signaling in human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549)

Although comprehensive exertions have been made in late decades for treating advanced lung cancer with inclusive therapies but efficient anti-lung cancer therapeutics are statically inadequate in the clinics. Hence, compelling novel anti-lung cancer drugs are considerably desired. This backdrop enticed us to unveil anticancer efficacy of astrakurkurol, derivative of wild edible mushroom against lung cancer, whose effects have not yet been described. Mechanistic analysis disclosed that sensitizing effect of astrakurkurol is due to cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, increased level of Fas, FADD, decreased ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, and increased cleaved form of caspase 9, 8, and 3. Apart from the induction of apoptosis, it was demonstrated for the first time that astrakurkurol induced an autophagic response as evidenced by the development of acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) with up-regulation of beclin-1, Atg7, and downregulated p62. Apoptosis and autophagy can be sparked by the same stimuli, which was as evident from the astrakurkurol-induced inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling. The thorough scanning of the mechanism of crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy is requisite for prosperous anticancer remedy. Triterpenoid has evidently intensified cytotoxicity, induced apoptosis and autophagy on A549 cells. Besides astrakurkurol could also curb migration and regress the size of tumor in ex ovo xenograft model. All these findings put forth astrakurkurol as a convincing novel anti-cancer agent, for scrutinizing the lung cancer therapies and as a robust contender for future in vitro and in vivo analysis.

Effect of retinol in the vitrification medium on viability of vitrified ovine preantral follicles and expression of key developmental and apoptosis related genes

BACKGROUND

Vitrification increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidants in the vitrification solution may be beneficial by reducing excessive ROS production.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of retinol supplementation in vitrification solution on viability, apoptosis and development-related gene expression in vitrified sheep preantral follicles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Preantral follicles were isolated and randomly assigned into one of five groups: Group1, control fresh preantral follicles; Group 2, vitrification treatment; Group 3, vitrification + 2 μM retinol; Group 4, vitrification + 5 μM retinol; Group 5, vitrification + 10 μM retinol. Preantral follicles were placed in vitrification solutions and then plunged into liquid nitrogen (-196°C). After a week, the follicles were thawed and analyzed for follicular viability by trypan blue exclusion method and for gene expression.

RESULTS

Vitrification with 5 μM retinol positively affected viability in comparison with vitrification without retinol (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in viability among the Group 1, Group 2, Group 3 and Group 5. Expression of apoptotic genes BAX and Casp 3 were higher in the vitrified group, and vitrification with 5 μM retinol (Group 4) is comparable to the control fresh. Expressions of other apoptosis-related genes (i.e., BCL2L1, BAD and BAK) showed significant difference between the control fresh group and the vitrification group with 5 μM retinol. Expression of Annexin5 was also significantly different among various groups. The expression of development competence genes GDF-9 and BMP-15 were higher (P < 0.05) in the Group vitrified with 5 μM retinol.

CONCLUSION

The supplementation of 5 μM retinol in vitrification solution was beneficial for the vitrification of ovine preantral follicles.

Regulatory role of Wnt signal in the estradiol synthesis of different size categories of ovarian follicles in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The aim of the present study was to understand the role of Wnt signal in ovarian estradiol synthesis in various size categories of ovarian follicles. A six- day cell culture system was adopted to test the effect of a Wnt inhibitor i.e. Inhibitor of Wnt response (IWR) on the ovarian granulosa cell estradiol synthesis and associated genes related to estradiol synthesis and Wnt signaling (CYP19A1, CCND2, WNT2, FZD6, DVL1, APC, AXIN2, CTNNB1) in buffalo. It was conducted with four groups: Group 1:control, Group 2: control + FSH, Group 3: IWR, Group 4:IWR + FSH. No significant effect of IWR was observed on the ovarian granulosa cell proliferation. No significant difference in the estradiol levels was found in the spent media harvested after six days of in vitro culture among different groups in small and large-sized ovarian follicles. However, the estradiol level varied significantly (P < 0.05) among different treatment groups in medium-sized follicles. The estradiol level was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in IWR group compared to the control group and was also significantly lower in IWR+FSH group compared to the FSH group. The Wnt inhibitor had significantly (P< 0.05) reduced the gene expression of CYP19A1 in large ovarian follicles. Varied effects of IWR-1 and FSH on the expression of other genes were observed. The results indicated that there is a positive role of Wnt signal in estradiol synthesis in buffalo but the positive role was more discernable in medium and large-sized follicles.

Anti-cancer effect of astrakurkurol from a folklore tribal mushroom on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells via mediating cell cycle inhibition, apoptosis, and migration

Astraeus hygrometricus extensively been utilized by tribal people for long time. A triterpene, astrakurkurol has been isolated from A. hygrometricus but anticancer effect of this novel triterpene has imperceptibly been investigated. Motive of this research was to scrutinize its underlying apoptotic mechanism in HepG2 cells. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated a selective effect of astrakurkurol with towering influence in HepG2 than Thle2 cells. The exposure of these triterpene-induced marked apoptotic morphological changes enhanced the rate of cell apoptosis and arrest cell cycle at G0/G1. Furthermore, these results are aided by decline in the expression of Bcl-2, Bcl-xL with an increase in the expression of p53, Bax, Fas, FADD together with the activation of caspase cascade. Astrakurkurol also displayed a remarkable anti-migratory capacity at a lower concentration. Altogether, studies explained anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-migratory efficacy of astrakurkurol on HepG2, composing a gripping challenge in the advancement of novel treatments against hepatocellular carcinoma. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Mushrooms, the minuscule pharmaceutical factory, bear hundreds of novel elements with incredible biological attributes. Triterpenoids from mushrooms has been proven to bear potentials of curing cancer. This study highlights the cytotoxic and anti-migratory effects of novel triterpene in vitro in HepG2 cell, an HCC cell line. Astrakurkurol mediated cell death via both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic signaling. Utilization of astrakurkurol will provide a non-toxic substitute of chemotherapy and also uplift the value of forsaken taxon, Astraeus and boost the rural acceptance.

First molecular modelling report on tri-substituted pyrazolines as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors through classical and machine learning based multi-QSAR analysis

Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) falls under a broad category of metallohydrolase enzymes responsible for the catalysis of the phosphodiesterase bond, and thus it can terminate the action of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Overexpression of this enzyme leads to development of a number of pathological conditions. Thus, targeting the enzyme to develop inhibitors could be useful for the treatment of erectile dysfunction as well as pulmonary hypertension. In the current study, several molecular modelling techniques were utilized including Bayesian classification, single tree and forest tree recursive partitioning, and genetic function approximation to identify crucial structural fingerprints important for optimization of tri-substituted pyrazoline derivatives as PDE5 inhibitors. Later, various machine learning models were also developed that could be utilized to predict and screen PDE5 inhibitors in the future.

Azide-mediated unusual in situ transformation of Mannich base to Schiff-Mannich base and isolation of their Cu(II) complexes: crystal structure, theoretical inspection and anticancer activities

A new "end-off" compartmental Mannich ligand (HL1) namely 3-((bis(2-methoxyethyl)amino)methyl)-5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde containing two methoxyethyl pendant arms and one-CHO functionality has been synthesized through conventional C-C and C-N coupling reactions. On treatment with Cu(ClO₄)₂, HL1 yields a dinuclear μ-phenolatocopper(II) complex having the molecular formula [Cu₂(L¹)₂](ClO₄)₂(H₂O)_1.5 (1). Surprisingly, the ligand HL1 is radically transformed into a new asymmetric Schiff-Mannich base ligand (HLF) in the presence of NaN₃ and Cu(ClO₄)₂ forming a unique dinuclear centro-symmetric Cu(II) complex [Cu(L^F)]₂ (2) as evident from single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis. A probable mechanistic rationalization has been proposed on the basis of theoretical calculations, which suggests systematic fragmentation of HL1 in the presence of azide residue and re-condensation of the fragmented units to yield the final Cu-HL^F complex (2). SCXRD analysis portrays a large inter-metallic distance in complex 2 in comparison with complex 1 (5.493 vs. 2.989 Å, respectively) along with other distinct structural features. After physicochemical characterization both the complexes have been exploited to evaluate their possible anticancer proficiency on lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549). Complex 1 distinctly impeded the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells in a dose-dependent manner more efficiently than complex 2. Due to the behavior of complex 1 as potential therapeutics, cellular transformations of A549 cells have been systematically investigated. As evidenced from various in vitro experiments, the cell death mechanism triggered by complex 1 turned out to be apoptosis, as indicated by the DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation, membrane blebbing and imbalanced cell cycle distribution as well as retard migration in A549 cells.

Effect of retinol as antioxidant on the post-thaw viability and the expression of apoptosis and developmental competence-related genes of vitrified preantral follicles in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The present study evaluated the effect of supplementation of retinol in the vitrification solution on the viability, apoptosis and development-related gene expression in vitrified buffalo preantral follicles. Preantral follicles isolated from cortical slices of ovaries were randomly assigned into three groups: Group1-Control fresh preantral follicles; Group 2-Vitrification treatment (Vitrification solution 1 (VS1) -TCM-199 + 25 mM HEPES + Foetal bovine serum (FBS) 10%, Ethylene glycol (EG): 10%, Dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO): 10%, Sucrose-0.3 M for 4 min; VS2- TCM-199 + 25 mM HEPES + FBS10%, EG:25%, DMSO: 25%, Sucrose:0.3 M for 45 s); Group3-vitrification treatment +5 μM of Retinol. Preantral follicles were placed in corresponding vitrification medium and plunged into liquid nitrogen (-196°C). After a week, the follicles were thawed and analysed for follicular viability and gene expression. There was no significant difference in the viability rates among the Group 1(Fresh preantral follicles) (91.46 ± 2.39%), Group 2 (89.59 ± 2.46%) and Group 3 (87.19 ± 4.05%). There was a significantly (p < .05) higher mRNA expression of BCL2L1, GDF-9 and BMP-15 in the vitrification + retinol group compared with the control group. There was a significantly (p < .05) higher expression of Caspase-3 and Annexin-5 in the vitrification group and Vitrification + retinol group compared with control group of follicles. It is concluded that the supplementation of 5 μM of Retinol in Vitrification solution was an efficient vitrification procedure for the vitrification of buffalo preantral follicles.

Natural infection of Delta mutant of SARS-CoV-2 in Asiatic lions of India

The current pandemic caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) has underlined the importance of emerging diseases of zoonotic importance. Along with human beings, several species of wild and pet animals have been demonstrated to be infected by SARS‐CoV‐2, both naturally and experimentally. In addition, with constant emergence of new variants, the species susceptibility might further change which warrants intensified screening efforts. India is a vast and second most populated country, with a habitat of a very diverse range of animal species. In this study we place on record of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections in three captive Asiatic lions. Detailed genomic characterization revealed involvement of Delta mutant (Pango lineage B.1.617.2) of SARS‐CoV‐2 at two different locations. Interestingly, no other feline species enclosed in the zoo/park were found infected. The epidemiological and molecular analysis will contribute to the understanding of the emerging mutants of SARS‐CoV‐2 in wild and domestic animals.

Prospecting medicinal properties of Lion's mane mushroom

Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon, a popular medicinal edible mushroom, owns a long history of usage in traditional Chinese medicine and also in other oriental countries. Along with this, its several bioactive compounds have been evolved into food supplements. Meanwhile, this present investigation aimed at extracting bioactive components from fruiting bodies of H. erinaceus using two different solvents and evaluating its in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative efficacy. Chemical analysis showed extracts were rich in phenol, flavonoids, and ascorbic acids while lesser amount of carotenoids were also detected in these extracts. Both extracts were able to scavenge 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (~76%) and 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) radicals (~81%) and also showed chelating activity (~73.05%). The ethanolic extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (total antioxidant capacity 2.17 µg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg of extract) whereas methanolic extract showed moderate capacity (total antioxidant capacity 1.42 µg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg of extract). All extracts displayed antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well (minimum inhibition concentration 1,575-2,750 µg/ml) although methanolic extract showed some selectivity towards bacterial strains. Apart from these, ethanolic fraction has found to exhibit potent cytotoxicity (IC50 403.12 µg/ml) towards lung adenocarcinoma cells. These studies thus provide the reference data that could support this mushroom as an easily accessible source of natural bioactive components. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Mushroom extracts have long been traditionally used as miracle medicine to treat an extensive range of ailments. These findings indicate the potential benefits of the Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon extracts for the development of multi-target therapeutics as well as extraction with appropriate solvents also provide leads for the isolation of various principle compounds. The extracts thus could be used to treat oxidative stress-related disorders as they are found to contain antioxidant compounds like phenols and others and also they possessed good antimicrobial and anticancer activity.

Copper and Selenium stimulates CYP19A1 expression in caprine ovarian granulosa cells: possible involvement of AKT and WNT signalling pathways

The role of copper and selenium on activation of estradiol synthesis pathways viz. PKA/AKT/WNT is not clearly elucidated. On this background we attempt to elcuiated the role of copper and selenium on mRNA expression of genes associated with estradiol synthesis in caprine ovarian granulose cell models. Ovarian granulosa cells from medium (3-5 mm) sized follicles were aspirated and distributed separately to different groups. Group I: control, Group II: cupric chloride (Cu: 0.5 mM), Group III: sodium selenite (Se: 100 ng/ml), Group IV: Cu + Se. The cells (10⁵/well) were cultured in 96 well plate in the base culture medium of MEMα comprising of nonessential amino acids (1.1 mM), FSH (10 ng/mL), transferrin (5 µg/mL), IGF-I (2 ng/mL), androstenedione (10^-6 M), penicillin (100 IU/mL), streptomycin (0.1 mg/mL) and fungizone (0.625 µl/mL) and insulin (1 ng/mL). The cells were incubated in a carbondioxide incubator (38 °C, 5% CO₂, 95% RH). The medium was changed on alternate days and cells were harvested on day 6. Day 6 media was used for estimation of estradiol. The RNA isolated form harvested cells was used for qPCR assay. There was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in estradiol concentration between groups. The mRNA expression of AKT1, CYP19A1, WNT2 & 4, FZD6 and APC2 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Cu and Cu + Se groups compared to control. Whereas, the mRNA transcript of DVL1 and CSNK1 was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Cu + Se group compared to control. Incontrast, no significant difference in mRNA expression of PRKAR1A and CTNNB1 was noticed. Our study support a key role of copper and selenium in activation of AKT and WNT signalling pathway that further lead to increase in the mRNA expression of CYP19A1.

First Observation of Multiple Transverse Wobbling Bands of Different Kinds in ^{183}Au

We report the first observation of two wobbling bands in ^{183}Au, both of which were interpreted as the transverse wobbling (TW) band but with different behavior of their wobbling energies as a function of spin. It increases (decreases) with spin for the positive (negative) parity configuration. The crucial evidence for the wobbling nature of the bands, dominance of the E2 component in the ΔI=1 transitions between the partner bands, is provided by the simultaneous measurements of directional correlation from the oriented states ratio and the linear polarization of the γ rays. Particle rotor model calculations with triaxial deformation reproduce the experimental data well. A value of spin, I_{m}, has been determined for the observed TW bands below which the wobbling energy increases and above which it decreases with spin. The nucleus ^{183}Au is, so far, the only nucleus in which both the increasing and the decreasing parts are observed and thus gives the experimental evidence of the complete transverse wobbling phenomenon.

Attosecond timing of electron emission from a molecular shape resonance

Shape resonances in physics and chemistry arise from the spatial confinement of a particle by a potential barrier. In molecular photoionization, these barriers prevent the electron from escaping instantaneously, so that nuclei may move and modify the potential, thereby affecting the ionization process. By using an attosecond two-color interferometric approach in combination with high spectral resolution, we have captured the changes induced by the nuclear motion on the centrifugal barrier that sustains the well-known shape resonance in valence-ionized N2. We show that despite the nuclear motion altering the bond length by only 2%, which leads to tiny changes in the potential barrier, the corresponding change in the ionization time can be as large as 200 attoseconds. This result poses limits to the concept of instantaneous electronic transitions in molecules, which is at the basis of the Franck-Condon principle of molecular spectroscopy.

Exploring the structure of Xe isotopes in A ~ 130 region: Single particle and collective excitations

High and medium spin structures of 130,131Xe have been studied using α-induced fusion-evaporation reaction and the Indian National Gamma Array (INGA) coupled with a digital data acquisition system. Various new band structures and near yrast levels of 131Xe have been established. The multipolarities of the observed transitions have been assigned on the basis of the DCO ratios and the polarization asymmetry measurements. Band structures based on 1-quasi-particle (qp), 3-qp configurations have been observed. A new Magnetic Rotational (MR) band based on 5-qp configuration has also been established in 131Xe. The MR band has been interpreted in terms of shears mechanism with principal axis cranking (SPAC) calculations. Shell Model calculations are carried out to describe the non yrast states of 131Xe above the 11/2− isomer. New excited states have also been identified in 130Xe, produced in the same reaction.

QSAR and molecular docking studies of lethal factor protease inhibitors against Bacillus anthracis

Bacillus anthracis is considered as a biological warfare agent because it is the causative agent of the serious infectious anthrax disease. Delay in treatment leads to lethal factor-mediated toxaemia which is very critical due to lack of therapeutic options. Consequently, attempts have been made to discover potent lethal factor (LF) protease inhibitors such as small-molecule synthetic 2-thio-1,3-thiazolidine-4-one (rhodanine) compounds. But computed descriptor-based quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and drug design studies on such aspect are poorly represented. Therefore, an attempt was made for developing QSAR models using structural descriptors for 1,3-thiazolidine-4-one compounds. The models were developed on a series of 49 LF protease inhibitors using the combination of constitutional, functional group, atom-centred fragment and molecular property descriptors. The best QSAR model included four variables, namely, C-040, nR05, GVWAI-80 and ALOGP that correlated well with the anti-LF protease activity with a good correlation coefficient (r = 0.870) of good statistical significance (F_{4, 29} = 14.09 (α = 0.001) F_{4, 29} = 6.19). This model was also validated and explained 58.1% of variances of the Bacillus anthracis inhibitory activities of the studied compounds with r²_pred = 0.710 which denotes external predictability. Finally, molecular docking was carried out to predict the mode of binding of some highly active congeneric compounds. It was shown that VAL 1403 is an important residue for phenyl ring. TYR 1456 and HIS 1418 are responsible for interaction with the rhodanine nucleus. Therefore, these residues are considered responsible for the inhibition of LF protease anthrax and can predict significant dimension of essential structural features of these inhibitors to evaluate, screen and help priorities of the synthesis of the candidates against anthrax bioterrorism.

Characterization and Inception of a Triterpenoid Astrakurkurol, as a Cytotoxic Molecule on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells, Hep3B

Mushrooms are customary influential sources of pharmaceutically active metabolites. Usually lanostane-type triterpenoids from mushrooms had prospective for cancer disease treatments. Recently, a triterpenoid, astrakurkurol obtained from the fresh basidiocarps of the edible mushroom Astraeus hygrometricus, drew attention as a new cytotoxic therapeutic. The structural stability of this triterpenoid had been established with the amalgamation of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and study of single-crystal X-ray diffraction. To successfully manifest astrakurkurol as a potent cytotoxic therapeutics, a wide apprehension on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying their action is prerequisite. On this account, our study was directed to scrutinize the influence of this triterpenoid on human hepatocellular cancer cell model Hep3B. Encapsulating all experimental facts revealed that astrakurkurol had significantly decreased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect was unveiled to be apoptosis, documented by DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation, nuclear shrinkage, membrane blebing, and imbalance of cell cycle distribution. Astrakurkurol persuaded the expression of death receptor associated proteins (Fas), which triggered caspase-8 activation following tBid cleavage. Moreover, tBid mediated ROS generation, which triggered mitochondrial dysfunction and activated the mitochondrial apoptotic events. Astrakurkurol cytotoxicity was based on caspase-8-mediated intrinsic apoptotic pathway and was associated with inhibition at Akt and NF-κB pathway. Astrakurkurol had also inhibited the migration of Hep3B cells, indicating its antimigratory potential. These findings led us to introduce astrakurkurol as a feasible and natural source for a safer cytotoxic drug against hepatocellular carcinoma.

Masses and Beta-decay Studies of Neutron-rich Nuclei using the X-array and Gammasphere

Properties of neutron-rich nuclei in the A˜160 region are important for achieving a better understanding of the nuclear structure in this region where little is known owing to diffculties in the production of these nuclei at the present nuclear physics facilities. These properties are essential ingredients in the interpretation of the rareearth peak at A˜160 in the r process abundance distribution, since theoretical models are sensitive to nuclear structure input. Predicated on these ideas, we have initiated a new experimental program at Argonne National Laboratory. During the first experiment, beams from the Californium Rare Isotope Breeder Upgrade radioactive beam facility were used in conjunction with the SATURN decay station and the X-array. We focused initially on several odd-odd nuclei, where β decays of both the ground state and an excited isomer were investigated. Because of the spin difference, a variety of structures in the daughter nuclei were selectively populated and characterized based on their decay properties. Mass measurements using the Canadian Penning Trap aimed at establishing the excitation energy of the β-decaying isomers were also carried out. Evidence was found for a change in the single-particle structure, which in turn results in the formation of a sizable N=98 sub-shell gap at large deformation. Results from the first experimental campaign using the newly-commissioned β-decay station at Gammasphere are also presented.

Microanatomical and Physicochemical Characterization and Antioxidative Activity of Methanolic Extract of Oudemansiella canarii (Jungh.) Höhn

Objectives

Oudemansiella canarii is an edible mushroom highly appreciated throughout the world due to its being a gastronomic delicacy. To date, no extensive work has been reported on the pharmacological or antioxidative aspects of this macrofungus. The present study focuses on the micromorphological features, confirmation of its identity based on molecular sequence (nrITS rDNA) data, and determination of its physicochemical parameters such as organoleptic features and fluorescent behavior.

Materials and Methods

Collected basidiocarps were powdered and used for microscopic and organoleptic evaluation. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method, total antioxidant activity methods, and 2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assay were used for evaluating the antioxidant capacities of the methanolic extract. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis profile was also recorded to analyze the phenolic fingerprint.

Results

The DPPH radical scavenging activity was determined with an EC₅₀ value of 0.912 μg, total antioxidant activity was found to be 15.33 μg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg of extract, and the ABTS assay revealed 12.91 μm TE/mg of extract antioxidant activity. The HPLC chromatogram revealed the presence of 12 peaks. Several parameters were tested for the determination of chemical composition, revealing the existence of major bioactive components in the extract in the following order: phenol>flavonoid>ascorbic acid>β-carotene~lycopene.

Conclusion

The present work suggests that O. canarii may be considered a novel prospect as a functional food and antioxidant supplement.

Nutritional and metabolic stressors on ovine oocyte development and granulosa cell functions in vitro

The present study was undertaken to study the effect of ammonia, urea, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), and β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-OHB) on oocyte development and granulosa cell (GC) growth parameter of ovine (Ovis aries). Ovine oocytes were matured in vitro in the presence of different concentration of ammonia, urea, NEFA, and β-OHB for 24 h, in vitro inseminated and evaluated for cleavage and blastocyst yield. Same concentrations of ammonia, urea, NEFA, and β-OHB were examined on growth parameters and hormone secretion activity of granulosa cells in vitro. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the expression of steroidogenic genes (steroidogenic cytochrome P-450 (CYP11A1, CYP19A1)), cell proliferation-related genes (GDF9, FSHr), and apoptosis-related genes (BCL-2 and BAX). The maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst production rates were significantly lowered in media containing either 200 μM ammonia or 5 mM urea or high combo NEFA or 1 μM β-OHB. Exposure of granulosa cell to 400 μM ammonia or 1 μM β-OHB or very high combo or 6 mM urea significantly decreased all the parameters examined compared to lower levels of all nutritional and metabolic stressors. Elevated concentration of metabolic stressors induced GC apoptosis through the BAX/BCL-2 pathway and reduced the steroidogenic gene messenger RNA (mRNA) expression and cell proliferation gene mRNA expression. These results suggested that the decreased function of GCs may cause ovarian dysfunction and offered an improved understanding of the molecular mechanism responsible for the low fertility in metabolic stressed condition.

Molecular cloning and expression of FGF2 gene in pre-implantation developmental stages of in vitro-produced sheep embryos

Early embryonic mortality is one of the main sources of reproductive loss in domestic ruminants including sheep. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) is a member of FGFs family that mediates trophoblast activities and regulates embryonic development in various species. In this study, we have cloned, characterized sheep FGF2 cDNA (KU316368) and studied the expression in sheep embryos. Ovaries of non-pregnant sheep were collected from local abattoir and matured in culture medium at 38.5ºC, 5% CO₂ , 95% humidity for 22-24 hr. The matured oocytes were inseminated with capacitated spermatozoa in Brackett and Oliphant medium and resulted embryos were cultured in CO₂ incubator for 6-7 days to complete the developmental stages from two cells to blastocyst stage. Total RNA was extracted from immature oocytes (n = 100), mature oocytes (n = 100) and different stages of embryos such as 2 cell (n = 50), 4 cell (n = 25), 8 cell (n = 12), 16 cell (n = 6), morula (n = 5) and blastocyst (n = 3). The total RNA isolated from the oocytes and embryos was reverse transcribed and subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction using sequence-specific primers and SYBR green as the DNA dye. On sequence analysis, the nucleotide sequence of sheep FGF2 exhibited highest sequence similarity with cattle (100%) and least with rat and mouse (69.2%). At the deduced amino acid level, a highest degree of similarity was noticed with cattle, buffalo, goat, pig, camel and horse (100%) and lowest degree of identity with rat, human and mouse (98.2%). The FGF2 mRNA expression was higher in immature and mature oocytes and gradually decreases from 2-cell stage of embryo to the blastocyst stage. More over a significant differences in FGF2 mRNA expression (p < .05) were observed between immature oocytes and all pre-implantation stages of embryo. It can be concluded that FGF-2 plays a significant role in pre-implantation and early development of embryos in sheep.

Combinatorial design and virtual screening of potent anti-tubercular fluoroquinolone and isothiazoloquinolone compounds utilizing QSAR and pharmacophore modelling

The virulence of tuberculosis infections resistant to conventional combination drug regimens cries for the design of potent fluoroquinolone compounds to be used as second line antimycobacterial chemotherapeutics. One of the most effective in silico methods is combinatorial design and high throughput screening by a ligand-based pharmacophore prior to experiment. The combinatorial design of a series of 3850 fluoroquinolone and isothiazoloquinolone compounds was then screened virtually by applying a topological descriptor based quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) for predicting highly active congeneric quinolone leads against Mycobacterium fortuitum and Mycobacterium smegmatis. The predicted highly active congeneric hits were then subjected to a comparative study between existing lead sparfloxacin with fluoroquinolone FQ hits as well as ACH-702 with predicted active isothiazoloquinolones, utilizing pharmacophore modelling to focus on the mechanism of drug binding against mycobacterial DNA gyrase. Finally, 68 compounds including 34 FQ and 34 isothiazoloquinolones were screened through high throughput screening comprising QSAR, the Lipinski rule of five and ligand-based pharmacophore modelling.

Photoionization in the time and frequency domain

Ultrafast processes in matter, such as the electron emission after light absorption, can now be studied using ultrashort light pulses of attosecond duration (10−18 seconds) in the extreme ultraviolet spectral range. The lack of spectral resolution due to the use of short light pulses has raised issues in the interpretation of the experimental results and the comparison with theoretical calculations. We determine photoionization time delays in neon atoms over a 40–electron volt energy range with an interferometric technique combining high temporal and spectral resolution. We spectrally disentangle direct ionization from ionization with shake-up, in which a second electron is left in an excited state, and obtain excellent agreement with theoretical calculations, thereby solving a puzzle raised by 7-year-old measurements.

Amelioration of oxidative stress using N-acetylcysteine in canine parvoviral enteritis

Previously, antioxidants have not been evaluated for treatment of parvoviral diarrhea in dogs. In this study, antioxidant potential of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) in dogs infected with canine parvovirus with a nonblinded randomized clinical trial has been carried out. A total 18 parvo‐infected dogs were randomly divided into two groups: nine parvo‐infected dogs were treated with supportive treatment and nine parvo‐infected dogs were treated with NAC along with supportive treatment. Simultaneously, nine healthy dogs were kept as healthy control. In parvo‐infected dogs, marked hemoconcentration, leucopenia, neutropenia and oxidative stress were noticed compared to healthy dogs. The NAC treatment progressively improved the leukocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, and eosinophil counts over the time in parvovirus‐infected dogs compared to dogs that received only supportive treatment. In addition, NAC treatment significantly improved glutathione S‐transferase (GST) activity and decreased nitrite plus nitrate (NOx) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations on day 3 and 5 compared to supportive treatment in parvo‐infected dogs. However, supportive treatment alone failed to ameliorate oxidative stress in the infected dogs till day 5. The results of this study suggest that NAC represents a potential additional treatment option that could be considered to improve the health condition and minimize the duration of hospitalization in case of canine parvoviral diarrhea.

Pirfenidone inhibits post-traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal pirfenidone for inhibition of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) in a model of penetrating ocular injury.Patients and methodsPenetrating trauma was induced on the retina of rabbit and treated either with 0.1 ml of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or 0.1 ml of 0.5% pirfenidone, and development of PVR was evaluated clinically and graded after 1 month. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry with transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA), and collagen-1 were performed to assess the fibrotic changes. Expression of cytokines in the vitro-retinal tissues at different time points following pirfenidone and PBS injection was examined by RT-PCR. Availability of pirfenidone in the vitreous of rabbit at various time points was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography following injection of 0.1 ml of 0.5% pirfenidone. In normal rabbit eye, 0.1 ml of 0.5% pirfenidone was injected to evaluate any toxic effect.ResultsClinical assessment and grading revealed prevention of PVR formation in pirfenidone-treated animals, gross histology, and histopathology confirmed the observation. Immunohistochemistry showed prevention in the expression of collagen-I, αSMA, and TGFβ in the pirfenidone-treated eyes compared to the PBS-treated eyes. Pirfenidone inhibited increased gene expression of cytokines observed in control eyes. Pirfenidone could be detected up to 48 h in the vitreous of rabbit eye following single intravitreal injection. Pirfenidone did not show any adverse effect following intravitreal injection; eyes were devoid of any abnormal clinical sign, intraocular pressure, and electroretinography did not show any significant change and histology of retina remained unchanged.ConclusionThis animal study shows that pirfenidone might be a potential therapy for PVR. Further clinical study will be useful to evaluate the clinical application of pirfenidone.

Cryopreservation of specialized chicken lines using cultured primordial germ cells

Biosecurity and sustainability in poultry production requires reliable germplasm conservation. Germplasm conservation in poultry is more challenging in comparison to other livestock species. Embryo cryopreservation is not feasible for egg-laying animals, and chicken semen conservation has variable success for different chicken breeds. A potential solution is the cryopreservation of the committed diploid stem cell precursors to the gametes, the primordial germ cells ( PGCS: ). Primordial germ cells are the lineage-restricted cells found at early embryonic stages in birds and form the sperm and eggs. We demonstrate here, using flocks of partially inbred, lower-fertility, major histocompatibility complex- ( MHC-: ) restricted lines of chicken, that we can easily derive and cryopreserve a sufficient number of independent lines of male and female PGCs that would be sufficient to reconstitute a poultry breed. We demonstrate that germ-line transmission can be attained from these PGCs using a commercial layer line of chickens as a surrogate host. This research is a major step in developing and demonstrating that cryopreserved PGCs could be used for the biobanking of specialized flocks of birds used in research settings. The prospective application of this technology to poultry production will further increase sustainability to meet current and future production needs.