Here we investigated whether FT-Raman spectroscopy could be used to detect biochemical changes in small-leaved basil (Ocimum basilicum L. var. minimum Alef.) callus culture (CC). To address the effect of culture conditions and elicitor treatments, CC established on 1 mg L-1 2,4-D + 0.5 mg L-1 BAP, or 2.5 mg L-1 NAA + 0.5 mg L-1 KIN was exposed to various spectral light treatments during four weeks and compared to those grown in dark. The composition of CC was analysed both using an FT-Raman spectrometer equipped with laser 1064 nm, and spectrophotometrically. The spectral composition of light had a higher influence on the chemical composition of CC grown on NAA + KIN than on 2,4-D + BAP medium. Spectrophotometrically, no differences in the content of protein or sugar were determined in relation to the plant growth regulators applied. However, significant differences in frequencies and intensities of vibrational bands associated with proteins (S-S disulfide stretching, tyrosine, cystine, and methionine at lower spectral ranges, and amide III stretching in the higher spectral range), and carbohydrates (C-O-C skeletal mode at lower spectral ranges, and C-O-H vibrations at higher spectral ranges) within the Raman spectra were estimated and discussed. The 1525 cm-1 and 1606 cm-1 peaks with high intensities of vibration bands were identified and assigned to carotenoids and phenolics. In all treatments applied the major Raman peaks were detected at 1606, 1629, and 1633 cm-1. PCA analysis showed that CC under blue-red light and blue-red light + UVa (2,4-D + BAP) had higher content of carotenoids and ester groups, while chlorophyll a and phenolics were found in CC grown on NAA + KIN under blue-red light + UVa and blue-red light + far-red. Compared to traditional methods of analysis, which are preceded by the sample destruction before extraction and analysis, it can be concluded that the FT-Raman spectroscopy may serve as a valuable tool for the non-destructive and non-invasive identification of major biochemical changes in basil CC without any sample preparation.

Acetamiprid (Aceta) is a neonicotinoid insecticide utilized extensively worldwide, and its environmental and human health risks are of concern. Eruca vesicaria is an edible year-round plant that contains a lot of health-promoting phytochemicals and is an excellent source of antioxidants. So, the present investigation was planned to assess the effect of E. vesicaria seed essential oil versus acetamiprid-induced toxicity in rats. Animals were partitioned into 4 groups of seven each: control, E. vesicaria seeds essential oil (ESEO; 0.17 mL/kg), acetamiprid (Aceta; 21.7 mg/kg), and ESEO plus Aceta, respectively. Doses were given orally and daily for 14 days. Results revealed that ESEO has many phytochemical components with high antioxidant activity. Data showed that treatment with Aceta increased lipid peroxidation and decreased the activities of "enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants" in kidney homogenate. Also, disturbance of kidney and liver function biomarkers, lipid profile, and protein content were observed. These are confirmed by the histological, molecular (Cox-2, TNF-α, and PPAR-α), and renal damage biomarkers (KIM-1 and Cystatin C) examination. On the other hand, rats administered ESEO and then treated with Aceta showed significant amelioration in most of the examined indices. To sum up, ESEO has a potent anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant activity that protects against the pronounced harmful effects of Aceta in rat kidneys due to its health-promoting phytochemicals.

The current study aims to determine whether Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) leaf extract can reverse cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced ovarian dysfunction and follicle loss in rats, potentially through antioxidant or anti-inflammatory pathways. Female rats were divided into four experimental groups: (1) negative control (administrated distilled water), (2) premature ovarian failure (POF) model group (induced by a single intraperitoneal dose of CP), (3) M. Oleifera extract alone, and (4) M. oleifera + CP. CP induced multiple effects on the ovaries, including hormonal imbalances (increased FSH and decreased E2 levels), oxidative stress (elevated serum MDA and NO levels), altered gene expression (upregulated TNF-α and downregulated TGF-β), and histological changes (follicular atresia and stromal hyperplasia). Pretreatment with M. oleifera successfully mitigated CP-induced oxidative and inflammatory changes, as well as ovarian tissue damage, but failed to reverse serum hormonal imbalances. These findings demonstrate the protective potential of M. oleifera leaf extract against CP-induced ovarian toxicity, likely mediated by the synergistic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective properties of its bioactive components.

The employment of photoluminescent carbon nanodots (PL-CNDs) in biomedical applications is a new trend of research, specifically in delivering and tracking the drug of interest at the target site. On the other hand, the determination of in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of the highly utilized nanomaterial is of utmost priority. In the present work, we described the synthesis, optical and surface morphological characterization, and determination of toxicity of PL-CNDs derived from egg white on the in vitro Human Corneal Epithelial (HCE) cells, and in vivo Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) model. The in-house developed PL-CNDs were blue photoluminescent under excitation at 365 nm and showed an emission peak at 420 nm. Further, HR-TEM analysis suggests the spherical shape of PL-CNDs with a lattice space of 0.26 nm, having a size of 2 nm determined from particle size analysis. The Tauc plot analysis calculated from absorption spectra suggests a band gap of ∼1.8 eV and ∼4.9 eV. The biocompatibility assay (20-250 μg/mL), cell apoptosis (20, 60, 100 μg/mL), and cell morphological (20, 60, 100 μg/mL) studies on HCE cells highlight the cytocompatibility of the PL-CNDs at various concentrations. The toxicity of PL-CNDs was evaluated using an in vivo genetic animal model, D. melanogaster. The oral treatment of 20-250 μg/mL concentrations of PL-CNDs did not induce any significant mortality and climbing defect in flies. In addition, dietary supplementation with PL-CNDs elicits a dose-dependent enhancement of antioxidant defense mechanisms confirmed by SOD and CAT, and the elevation of total antioxidant capacity. The measurement of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract region suggests the non-toxic properties of PL-CNDs (50-100 μg/mL). In summary, PL-CNDs are non-toxic and have good bioavailability, they can be used for delivering drugs in conjugations due to their nano size.

Recent findings indicate elevated levels of total Hg in the waters of the Lagoa Mundaú-Manguaba Estuarine Complex (CELMM, Maceió-AL, Brazil) and the biological fluids of fishermen that live near CELMM. This study assessed Hg levels in whole blood and the functionality, structure, morphology, and oxidative stress of blood cells from fishermen (n = 60) compared with control volunteers (n = 65). A systematic assessment was performed, and our results revealed increased Hg concentration in fishermen's blood. Erythrocyte functionality showed a 39 % decrease in O2 uptake. For peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), ROS generation demonstrated an 87 and 116 % increase in O2•- and H2O2 production, respectively, confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy showed increased roughness in the PBMCs membrane. Secondary oxidative stress markers revealed a reduction in the GSH/GSSG ratio and thiol content. MDA production increased by 89 %, while antioxidant enzyme activities showed a 159 and 22 % increase in SOD and CAT, respectively; otherwise, a depletion of 33 % in GPx. The metabolomic profile exhibited changes in essential amino acids for GSH formation, and energy pathways were modified. Finally, our data indicates that exposure to a polluted environment alters redox status, leading to compromised function and structure of blood cells.

Oil seeps and spillage events can harm the environment in various ways. In the ocean, oil may form droplets or remain in the water column, becoming ingested by exposed species and potentially contaminating humans through seafood consumption. This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the toxicity of the water accommodated fraction (WAF) obtained from a solid soil-oil mass after the Brazilian oil spill of 2019 and its effects on enzymatic biomarkers in Artemia parthenogenetica. Cysts and nauplii were exposed to 100 %, 4 % and 0.16 % WAF for 48 h, with toxicological parameters and enzymatic activities measured. GC-MS analysis of the WAF identified 15 of the 16 EPA priority PAHs in the WAF, with ∑PAHs concentrations of ∼200 μg L-1, including toxicants like naphthalene and benzo[a]pyrene. WAF exposure did not affect hatching rate or mortality in A. parthenogenetica. On the other hand, significant increases in CAT, GPx, and GSTs activities, and cholinesterase impairment were observed in nauplii exposed to 100 % WAF compared to the control group. These results indicate that while no individual changes occurred, subindividual metabolic parameters were altered in animals exposed to 100 % WAF, suggesting activation of antioxidant defenses, increased phase II metabolic activity, and neurotoxicity, potentially impacting the development of juveniles of the tested species, and possibly of other marine species and thereby affecting marine ecosystem balance.

Potassium bromate (KBrO3) is a colorless, odorless substance used as a food additive. It causes multiple organ damage and neurotoxicity. Morin is a flavonoid from the Moraceae family known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, antiautophagic, and neuroprotective properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Morin against KBrO3-induced brain damage.

62 mg/kg KBrO3 and 50-100 mg/kg Morin were administered to 35 male rats by oral gavage daily for 14 days. Various analyses were performed using molecular, biochemical, and histological methods.

The analyses results showed that KBrO3 application decreased antioxidant markers and raised lipid peroxidation in the brain tissue. The KBrO3 application triggered apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inflammation. Morin treatment increased enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant levels and decreased lipid peroxidation. In addition, Morin alleviated KBrO3-induced apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inflammation in the brain tissue. The histopathological analysis revealed an increase in degenerative changes, as well as pyknotic changes and vacuolization in cells, in neurons in the KBrO3 group. Increased hyperemia and congestion were detected in the meninges and vessels in the cerebral cortex.

KBrO3 application caused toxicity in the brain tissue and impaired tissue integrity, whereas Morin treatment alleviated KBrO3-induced toxicity.

Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers.) is a highly valued edible fungus recognized for its diverse health benefits. This study investigated the in vitro DNA-protective effects and in vivo genotoxicity and antioxidant activity of an ethanol extract from the fruiting bodies of cultivated H. erinaceus (HEEE) using a Drosophila model. HEEE exhibited remarkable, concentration-dependent protection against DNA damage induced by hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals in vitro reaching optimal protection at 400 μg mL-1, without showing genotoxic effects in third instar Drosophila melanogaster larvae, at tested concentrations below 20 mg mL-1. HEEE displayed significant in vivo antioxidant activity under oxidative stress conditions at concentrations up to 2.5 mg mL-1. In the range of 1.25-10 mg mL-1, HEEE reduced malondialdehyde levels, while a concentration of 40 mg mL-1 exhibited a significant pro-oxidant effect. At 1.25 mg mL-1, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities increased by 23.1% and 10.6%, respectively. The concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 mg mL-1 significantly reduced superoxide dismutase activity, by 44.1%, 52.0%, and 66.4%, respectively. The concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 mg mL-1 induced an increase in glutathione (GSH) levels of 131.5%, 145.8%, and 228.7%, respectively. Quantitative Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (qNMR) spectroscopy revealed the presence of hericenes and hericenones and allowed to quantify, for the first time directly without prior separation steps, these active ingredients at 0.43% (w/w), expressed as the relative content of hericenone C. Phenolics hericenes and hericenones C-H likely contribute to the observed antioxidant and DNA-protective activities. These findings suggest that HEEE could be a valuable dietary supplement providing protection against oxidative DNA damage and supporting antioxidant defenses.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary glutamine (Gln) and glutamic acid (Glu) blend on growth performance, plasmatic biochemical parameters, intestinal bacteriome composition, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production, digestive enzyme activity, and histomorphometry of Nile tilapia fingerlings. The study also aimed to evaluate the effects of this blend on liver antioxidant status and gene expression of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10), pre-inflammatory interleukin 1β (IL-1β), glutamine synthetase (GS), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α). Fish (n = 408; 1.0 ± 0.0 g) were randomly distributed into eight aquaria (51 fish each) and fed micro-extruded diets either unsupplemented (CON) or supplemented with 20 g kg-1 of Gln and Glu (1:1) blend (AMG). Fish were hand-fed six times daily until apparent satiety for 30 days. Fish fed AMG diet showed higher body weight gain (+3.0 %) than those fed CON diet. Additionally, these fish exhibited a higher abundance of Staphylococcus saprophyticus, a SCFA-producing bacterium known for its probiotic-like potential in fish. Consequently, fish fed AMG diet exhibited higher intestinal butyric acid production and increased intestinal fold height relative to fish fed CON diet. The upregulation of PPAR-α and GS genes suggested that fish fed AMG diet exhibited improved energy metabolism and ammonia excretion, respectively. Furthermore, the upregulated expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 gene in fish fed AMG diet indicated enhanced immune responses. Fish fed AMG diet showed increased activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase and decreased malondialdehyde concentration in the liver. Dietary supplementation with 20 g kg-1 of Gln plus Glu promoted fish growth and survival through beneficial modulation of the bacteriome, improving intestinal health and function, supporting nutrient absorption and metabolism, strengthening innate immunity, and reducing oxidative stress in Nile tilapia fingerlings.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is an independent risk factor for vascular diseases. In this context, activated macrophages release inflammatory molecules that can contribute to endothelial dysfunction. While the effects of PM2.5's solid fraction on vascular endothelial cells are well-documented, the effect of its polar compounds circulating in the bloodstream remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of direct and indirect (macrophage-mediated) exposure to aqueous PM2.5 on the endothelium. CF-1 mice received intranasal instillations of PM2.5 (30 μg in 10 μL) or saline, 5 days per week for two weeks. These animals exhibited considerable endothelial dysfunction linked to oxidative stress. Similarly, macrophages (RAW264.7 lineage) exposed to aqueous PM2.5 (10-fold dilution) exhibited oxidative stress and inflammation, indicating that their reactive phenotype may contribute to the outcomes observed in vivo. Interestingly, their conditioned medium (10 % v/v) enhanced endothelial cell function (EOMA lineage) by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and promoting an endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)-dependent increase in nitrite levels, with the exact opposite effect observed in cells directly exposed to aqueous PM2.5. These findings suggest that the macrophage secretome, rather than residual metals, may be responsible for these effects. Consistent with these findings, incubation with the animals' plasma (1 % v/v) also stimulated nitrite production. Additionally, caveolin-1, a key mediator of vesicle uptake, was overexpressed in endothelial cells exposed to conditioned medium, suggesting its involvement in monocyte-endothelium crosstalk. Finally, our results indicated that the macrophage secretome might serve as a mild stimulus, activating protective mechanisms in endothelial cells, whereas direct exposure to aqueous PM2.5 induces dysfunction.

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of infectious diseases, contributing to pathogenesis and the appearance of clinical symptoms. However, the involvement of oxidative stress in renal cryptococcosis remains unknown, as do the potential protective effects of rutin. Cryptococcus neoformans is considered the main agent of cryptococcosis, a systemic life-threatening opportunistic fungal disease that affects internal organs. In 2022, the World Health Organization classified it as a critical-priority group on its Fungal Priority Pathogens List. Rutin, a flavonoid with potent antioxidant and antifungal properties, has been proposed as a protective agent. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate whether 50 mg rutin/kg body weight prevents or reduces C. neoformans var. Grubii-induced renal oxidative stress. Renal fungal burden was significantly lower in rats that were treated with rutin and experimentally infected with C. neoformans, compared to those treated with saline solution and experimentally infected. Renal reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein carbonylation levels were significantly higher in experimentally infected rats compared to uninfected controls, whereas catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities were significantly lower. Treatment with rutin prevented the increase in renal ROS levels and the inhibition of CAT activity elicited by C. neoformans var. Grubii. However, no significant differences were observed in lipid damage or superoxide dismutase activity. This study is the first to demonstrate that C. neoformans var. Grubii infection induces renal oxidative damage in rats by promoting oxidative stress, increasing ROS levels, and impairing antioxidant defenses. Rutin treatment restored redox status in experimental rats through mechanisms involving oxidative stress. The protective effects of rutin against C. neoformans-induced kidney damage may result from its combined ability to scavenge ROS, inhibit protein damage, and enhance the antioxidant system.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide, with its most severe form being pulmonary emphysema, for which no effective treatment currently exists. Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) has been implicated in lung inflammation and injury. Here, we investigated the experimental treatment of elastase-induced emphysema in mice with selonsertib, an ASK1 inhibitor. Animals received intratracheal elastase and were subsequently treated with intranasal selonsertib at different doses. On day 21, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. Results showed that elastase-instilled mice developed pulmonary emphysema, whereas treatment with selonsertib at a dose of 2 mg/kg significantly reduced mean alveolar diameter. Moreover, higher doses of selonsertib were effective in reducing inflammatory cytokines (CX3CL1, IL-6, CCL2, and IL-1β), reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis. These findings suggest that ASK1 plays a critical role in the development of elastase-induced emphysema in mice and could be a target for COPD treatment.

The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept postulates that maternal malnutrition can program offspring for dysfunction of multiple systems, including the liver. Maternal Protein Restriction (MPR) is a maternal malnutrition model that dysregulates catabolic hormones early in life, with long-term consequences on offspring such as hypertension and reproductive system cancers. Furthermore, studies evaluating sex-specific differences are scarce, especially considering the consequences of MPR on early life. Here, we investigated the impacts of MPR on hepatic phenotypic and molecular aspects of male and female rats at postnatal day (PND)21. The rats were divided into two groups: CTR, from dams that consumed a normal-protein diet (17 % protein), or GLLP, from dams that consumed a low-protein diet (6 % protein) throughout gestation and lactation. Our results demonstrated that MPR leads to an increase in collagen fibers, glycogen, and peroxiredoxin 1, in addition to a decrease in reticular fibers, mast cells, GSH, and MDA in the liver of male rats. In females, a reduction of reticular fibers and protein expression of hepatic peroxiredoxin 4 was observed. By contrasting these results with in silico analyses, we suggest that the main altered mechanisms in males are associated with oxidative stress, glycogen metabolism, and inflammatory responses. In females, a subtle dysregulation of antioxidant activity within the extracellular matrix was noted. Therefore, this work demonstrates sex-specific hepatic differences in post-weaning rats exposed to MPR, highlighting possible maternal modulations that lead males to be more affected, which may generate long-term effects on hepatic and systemic health.

Chronic ionizing radiation causes elevated levels of DNA damage and reactive oxygen species in plants. Aquatic ecosystems in Chornobyl zone, a major radiological disaster site, are contaminated by harmful radionuclides. We focused on explaining the biochemical mechanisms responsible for the susceptibility of a wild aquatic plant (common reed, Phragmites australis) grown in Chornobyl zone to biotic stress. The fungal infection assay indicated that life in a radionuclide-contaminated environment might compromise plant immunity. Proteome profiling identified 1,867 proteins and we selected several dozen proteins with consistently higher and lower abundance in the samples from the littoral of contaminated lakes by hierarchical clustering. Discordant expression of coding genes pointed to posttranscriptional regulation. Proteins that accumulated in reed upon chronic irradiation suggested a biochemically stable phenotype with effective protection against reactive carbonyls. Simultaneously, proteins that depleted in plants collected from the littoral of radiologically contaminated lakes indicated worse stress resilience and enhanced susceptibility to biotic agents. Furthermore, the quantification of antioxidant enzyme activities and carbonylated proteins rebutted the idea about substantial oxidative stress in chronically irradiated plants. We advocate the necessity to consider increased pathogen sensitivity while developing policies for the management of radionuclide-contaminated areas.

Ethnopharmacological practices have long utilized A. spinosus L., a plant known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, in traditional medicine. Despite its widespread use, scientific validation of its therapeutic effects, particularly in gastrointestinal disorders like colitis, remains limited.

This study aimed to assess the protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of aerial parts of A. spinosus on acetic acid-induced colitis in mice via modulating inflammatory markers and oxidative stress.

The study involved phytochemical estimation, quantitative estimation of phytoconstituents along with HPTLC of hydroalcoholic extract of A. spinosus L. Colitis was induced by colonic administration of 150 μl (5 %) acetic acid once, intra-rectally on the 8th day. A. spinosus L. was administered orally at 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg. Mice were euthanized on the 11th day; the colon was examined macroscopically and histopathologically. Malondialdehyde (MDA) biochemical analysis was used to investigate colon lipid peroxidation. ELISA was used to quantify the levels of inflammatory markers. Additionally, an immunohistochemistry investigation evaluated the level of caspase-3 and COX-2.

At doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, hydroalcoholic extract of A. spinosus L. markedly attenuated histological deterioration and lowered disease activity index. In addition, A. spinosus L. lowered concentrations of MPO, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA (p < 0.05). A. spinosus L. treatment resulted in decreased COX-2 and caspase-3 expression, as determined by immunohistochemistry.

A. spinosus L. hydroalcoholic extract provides prevention against colitis induced by acetic acid. Reduced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation could be accountable for this effect.

The high-refined carbohydrate diet (HC diet) is linked to anxiety development and oxidative damage to heart tissue. However, little is known about how the gut microbiota profile is modulated in this diet model. Minocycline is an antibiotic with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) inhibitor properties. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of minocycline treatment on HC diet-induced cardiac damage, anxiety-like behaviour, and bacterial gut dysbiosis in mice. Male BALB/C mice were divided into two groups, which received standard diet or HC diet for 12 weeks. In the 10th week, both groups were subdivided and received water or minocycline (50 mg/kg) by gavage for 15 days. The gut bacterial populations, behavioural parameters, adiposity index, biochemical profile, cardiac oxidative stress indicators, MMPs, cardiac remodelling, and contractile analyses by Langendorff-perfused hearts were analysed. The HC diet induced bacterial gut dysbiosis and anxiety-like behaviour increased the adiposity index with changes in the lipid profile and creatine kinase fraction MB (CK-MB). In the heart, the HC diet increased tissue oxidative stress, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, collagen deposition, and altered cardiac performance. Minocycline treatment reversed diet-induced bacterial gut dysbiosis and anxiety-like behaviour, ameliorated the biochemical profile, diminished oxidative stress, MMP activity, cardiac collagen deposition, and improved cardiac performance. These findings suggest that minocycline treatment modulated the microbiota and attenuated behavioural changes and cardiac damage caused by the HC diet, suggesting an interplay between the gut-microbiota-brain axis and cardiac damage caused by the HC diet consumption.

Colorants are widely used in the food industry, especially artificial ones, due to their practicality and low cost. However, some artificial colorants can be harmful to human health. In order to substitute the artificial sources, some microorganisms such as fungi has been highlighted for its production and variety of colorants. The fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae is capable of producing, through its metabolism, colorants classified as azaphilone compounds. The objective of this work was study the sub-chronic (90-day oral) safety evaluation of the novel azaphilone colorant produced by T. amestolkiae in male and female Wistar rats. After a preliminary acute toxicity test, the animals were treated with doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight via gavage for 90 days. Hematological and biochemical parameters as well as histological examinations were carried out. Oxidative stress was also assessed. Liver damage was observed through an increase in ALT and ALP and confirmed with histological analysis and renal alterations were identified by increased sodium levels and confirmed through histological examination in highest doses, both possibly caused by compounds from the culture medium. Lipid dysregulation, including an increase in triglycerides, was observed at the highest concentrations. Alterations in the Purkinje cells were observed, probably as a consequence of oxidative stress caused by the colorant, but the brain tissue was unaltered. The findings of this study show that the extract containing azaphilone colorants at concentrations higher than 500 mg/mL poses challenges for safe application in food products. However, since the amount of colorant used as a food additive is typically low and tailored to the target color, these results indicate that the extract obtained after cultivation should undergo extraction and purification steps. The dose of 250 mg/kg/bw proved to be safe for both male and female rats, with no or few adverse effects observed.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that can lead to serious complications, including testicular dysfunction. This dysfunction is considered a significant cause of male infertility. Quercetin (Que), a naturally existing flavonoid with versatile biological functions, has limited water solubility and low bioavailability. The current study was designed to develop a bioavailable formulation of Que. via encapsulating it in PEGylated liposomes (Que-PEG-Lip) and determine whether this formulation is effective in the treatment of alloxan-induced testicular injury via targeting Kisspeptin/Neurokinin B/Dynorphin/steroidogenesis signaling pathway. Thirty-two male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control, alloxan-induced diabetes with testicular dysfunction (ALX), ALX + metformin (MET) and ALX + Que-PEG-Lip. The results showed that treatment of ALX group with Que-PEG-Lip significantly improved the alteration of glycemic index, serum reproductive hormones, testicular antioxidant status, testicular Kiss-1, androgen receptor (AR), and proliferation marker protein (ki67) immunoexpression in compared to ALX group. Moreover, the treatment of ALX group with Que-PEG-Lip regulated the Kisspeptin/Neurokinin B/Dynorphin/steroidogenesis pathway gene expression. Interestingly, the outcomes of the molecular docking analysis revealed a strong agonistic effect of Que. on the kisspeptin, neurokinin, and dynorphin receptors. In conclusion, Que-PEG-Lip mitigated the testicular dysfunction in alloxan-induced diabetic rats via regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis signaling pathway and alleviation the testicular oxidative stress.

Narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are all treated with amphetamine (a central nervous system stimulant) while valerenic acid (VA) has a pharmacological effect in the central nervous system.

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether VA is able to make amends for neurotoxicity by modifying hypothalamus expressions of the enzymes tyrosine hydroxylase and histamine-N-methyl transferase in rats orally administered with methamphetamine (METH).

There were thirty-six male albino rats split up into six equal groups, Control, VA (5 mg/kg)-treated, and VA (10 mg/kg)-treated groups: For four weeks, normal rats received oral administration of 1 ml of distilled water, 5 mg/kg of VA, and 10 ml/kg of VA once daily. METH-treated, VA (5 mg/kg) prior to METH-treated, and VA (10 mg/kg) before METH-treated groups: normal rats were oral administrated with METH (2.5 mg/kg), 3 days/week for 3 weeks, where the last two groups were oral administrated daily during four weeks at 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg VA, starting one week prior to METH administration.

METH decreased superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, NADPH oxidase, interleukin-10, sucrose preference test, distance traveled test, and center square entries test, ATPase activity and the enzymes tyrosine hydroxylase and histamine-N-methyl transferase but increased malondialdehyde, conjugated dienes, oxidative index, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, γ-aminobutyric acid, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, nuclear factor kappa B levels, the center square duration test, tail suspension test, and forced swimming test. in the METH-treated animals' brain in contrast to the control group. After four weeks of oral administration of VA to METH-treated rats, all of these parameters returned to levels that were nearly control, indicating that a higher dose was more effective than a lower one.

VA ameliorated METH-related neurotoxicity by improving hypothamalus expressions of the enzymes tyrosine hydroxylase and histamine-N-methyl transferase.

The Zika virus (ZIKV) - Orthoflavivirus zikaense - epidemic and its association with severe neurological disorders have created an urgent need to understand the disease pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic targets. In previous investigations, we have shown that oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of ZIKV infection in vitro and in vivo, and that silymarin has anti-ZIKV action in vitro. Here, we characterised the antioxidant and antiviral effects of silymarin against ZIKV infection in an animal model. We observed an increase in the levels of biomarkers of oxidative damage and in antioxidant enzyme activities in the livers of ZIKV-infected C57BL/6 mice. However, these effects were reversed in ZIKV-infected animals that were treated with silymarin. Furthermore, silymarin reduced the viral load in the livers of animals. Next, by in vitro studies, we confirmed that the anti-ZIKV action of silymarin is independent of its antioxidant activity. This work reinforces the potential use of silymarin against Zika fever.

Ethion (Etn) is classified as an organophosphate pesticide (OP) that causes toxicity even at low concentrations and targets the liver, brain, kidney, and blood. Gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) were biosynthesized from the whole methanolic extract of Casuarina equisetifolia bark, and their efficacy against Etn-induced hepato- and neurotoxicity in rats was assessed. In addition to determining conventional biochemical measurements, the target tissues (liver and brain) were examined for oxidative stress, inflammatory, and fibrotic markers. The protein and isoenzyme patterns were also assayed using an electrophoretic technique. Additionally, apoptotic gene expression was measured. The target tissues were also subjected to histopathological analysis. In all groups treated with C. equisetifolia bark gold nano-extract, it was observed that the levels of the hematological measurements that were impacted by the oral injection of Etn had recovered to normal. Regarding the biochemical measurements, the group that received nano-extract pretreatment showed greater improvement than the therapeutic group. The levels of inflammatory indicators significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05), while the antioxidant system markers increased in both liver and brain tissues in the group that received the nano-extract beforehand. In both target tissues, especially in the pre-treated group, the nano-extract reduced the severity of the Etn-caused lesions. During electrophoretic assays, the nano-extract in the pre-treated group prevented the qualitative alterations indicated by the lowest similarity index (SI%) values of the Etn-injected group compared to the normal group. The molecular assay showed that the nano-extract reduced the expression of apoptotic genes that were markedly elevated in the Etn-injected rats, but it was unable to return their values to normalcy. The study concluded that in the group that received nano-extract pretreatment, the biochemical, histopathological, physiological, and molecular abnormalities caused by Etn were reduced by the C. equisetifolia bark gold nano-extract.

Climate change is unequivocal, causing a rise in the Earth's temperature, which ultimately impacts all ecosystems. However, aquatic ecosystems are most severely affected by rising temperatures resulting in huge losses to aquaculture industry. The present study investigated the oxidative stress, histopathological changes, and transcriptomic responses in a freshwater catfish Clarias magur subjected to acute heat stress. Fish were exposed to four different temperatures, i.e., 28, 30, 32, and 34 °C, for 96 h to assess their heat tolerance and adaptation behavior. Fish kept at 26 °C were considered the control group. Elevated levels of key antioxidative enzymes such as catalase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase, were recorded in vital organs (gills, kidney, liver, and rosette). High rates of lipid peroxidation were also observed in the gills, kidney, liver, and rosette. An analysis of the top 25 differentially expressed genes of the gill transcriptome revealed that 72 percent of the transcripts were represented by innate and adaptive immune response genes. Downregulation of BOLA class I and MHC class I molecules indicated impaired immunity whereas, upregulation of MHC class II beta chain and GTPase IMAP8 suggested a compensatory immune response. These findings were also supported by the observed histoarchitectural alterations, such as disintegration of the skin barrier, hepatic and nephrotic apoptosis, tissue hyperplasia, macrophage infiltration, and development of splenic granulomas. This study provides important insights into physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying acute heat stress responses. Understanding these mechanisms is important for developing mitigation strategies to improve the sustainability and resilience of commercially important catfish under continuously changing climatic conditions.

A 10-day study was carried out to examine the effects of polyethylene microplastics (PEMP) on growth, antioxidant capacity, stress-related genes transcription, and gut histology of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) (Bloch, 1970) larvae. In this regard, 2 day old post hatch larvae were exposed to four concentrations of PEMP, including 1) control (without PEMP addition), 2) PEMP50 (50 μg PEMP/L), 3) PEMP100 (100 μg PEMP/L) and 4) PEMP500 (500 μg PEMP/L). Two days post hatching larvae (mouth opening time) were distributed into twelve 120-L cylindrical polyethylene tanks, each filled with 100 L seawater (47.0 ± 0.5 g/L, 32 ± 0.8 °C) (2500 larvae in each tank, 25 larvae/L). Different dosages of the PEMP were diluted in ethanol, then added to the larviculture tanks and larvae were exposed to each treatment for 10 days. Each treatment was replicated in three tanks. Rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis small type, 5-10 animals/mL) were offered to larvae from second DPH to 10 DPH in a green water (0.1-0.3 × 106 cell/ml Nannochloropsis. sp) system. The highest and lowest survival rate were in control (28.50 ± 3.38 %) and PEMP500 (3.50 ± 0.12 %) groups, respectively (P < 0.05). The highest body weight was in the control (1.94 ± 0.06 mg) but the lowest body weights were in PEMP100 (1.42 ± 0.03 mg) and PEMP500 (1.35 ± 0.03 mg) groups, respectively. The highest and lowest catalase (CAT) activities were in control and PEMP500 groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase activities decreased with increasing PEMP dosages, meanwhile lipid peroxidation level increased. At day 10, the expression of interleukin-1β, heat shock protein 90, CAT, SOD and glutathione S transferase genes were down-regulated with increasing PEMP in water. The thickness of the gut wall, crypt depth, villus width and height significantly decreased in larvae exposed to PEMP100 and PEMP500 groups compared to the other treatments. Based on the results of the present study, increasing PEMP concentrations in water exert adverse lethal effects during the critical larval development in marine fish species.

Aspirin has significant antineoplastic effects on the colon, whereas the outcomes of Vitamin C and D supplementation have been inconsistent. This study addressed the isolated and combined effects of vitamins C and D with aspirin on chemically induced colon carcinogenesis in mice, focusing on redox balance and DNA damage. Adult male and female mice were divided into seven groups: a control group; a group treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH, 40 mg/kg twice per week during weeks 4 and 5); and groups treated with DMH plus the following: aspirin (6 mg/kg in water); Vitamin C (500 mg/L in water); Vitamin D (1500 IU by oral gavage); a combination of Vitamin C and aspirin; and a combination of Vitamin D and aspirin. The treatments were administered continuously for 12 weeks. The treatments, isolated or combined, reduced aberrant crypt formations. Aspirin alone reduced the formation of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) by 65 %, accompanied by a systemic reduction in oxidative stress and DNA damage prevention. However, adding vitamins C and D to aspirin did not enhance these effects. Vitamin D alone suppressed ACF formation and DNA damage in the liver, whereas vitamin C had a limited effect on colon carcinogenesis, despite reducing oxidative stress in the liver and colon. In summary, we found no evidence that vitamins C and D supplementation enhanced the chemopreventive effects of aspirin on colon cancer.

Considering that woman's health during pregnancy is crucial to well-being as much maternal and fetal as well as the child's future, supplementation with antioxidant compounds has emerged as a promising strategy to prevent the development of future diseases. Given this context, the study aimed to evaluate the effect of lutein carrier nanoparticles supplementation during the preconception period on the offspring of Drosophila melanogaster subjected to a neurodevelopmental disorder model. Female flies, were exposed to either a standard diet or a diet containing NPs LUT (6 μM) for 24 h. Following this period, the flies were transferred to new experimental vials, and eighteen males were added, resulting in a total of 53 flies per experimental group. The male and female flies were then subdivided into two groups and exposed to either a standard diet or imidacloprid (IMI), for 7 days, to induce the neurodevelopmental disorder model, creating four experimental groups: 1) Control; 2) IMI; 3) NPs LUT; 4) NPs LUT + IMI. The hatched offspring were then used for behavioral and biochemical evaluations. Our results showed that supplementation with lutein carrier nanoparticles was able to prevent decreased activity of enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), as did neurotransmitters dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in the head of flies, and as a consequence it prevented behavioral damages such as hyperactivity, anxiety, social interaction, repetitive movements, learning and memory in the progeny of both sexes. Thus, these findings highlight the relevance of preconception supplementation with lutein carrier nanoparticles as an effective approach to prevent the emergence of symptoms associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, paving the way for future research aimed at investigating the best intervention period to prevent ASD and ADHD-type disorders.

This study examined the effects of supplementing the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) diet with purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) leaf powder (PLNP, 10 g/kg) on neurobehavioral performance, brain oxidative status, tight junction mRNA expression, and brain histology in fish exposed to waterborne cadmium (Cd, 50 μg /L) for 60 days. Adding PLNP to the diet ameliorated the Cd-induced decline in ingestive behavior and swimming behavior, and reversed the Cd-induced increase in aggressive behavior. The significant decrease in the non-enzymatic (reduced glutathione) and enzymatic (catalase and superoxide dismutase) brain antioxidants detected in Cd-exposed fish was eliminated by dietary PLNP. PLNP supplementation also led to a decrease in brain malondialdehyde content, which was elevated by Cd exposure. In addition, dietary PLNP increased brain acetylcholinesterase content, upregulated mRNA expression of tight junction (zo-2, claudin-4, and zo-1) and oxidative stress genes (sod-2, gpx, and nrf-2), and downregulated apoptotic genes (p53, caspase-9, caspase-8, and caspase-3) in the brain, relative to the alterations in these parameters caused by Cd exposure. Furthermore, the Cd-induced histological changes in the Nile tilapia brain were ameliorated by PLNP dietary supplementation. In light of these findings, PLNP may be a useful dietary supplement for reducing the harmful effects of Cd on the brain and behavior of Nile tilapia.

Berberine is a promising bioactive compound that has gained great attention against numerous diseases but its low solubility and poor systemic bioavailability hinders its clinical applicability. Therefore, this study attempted to enhance the therapeutic potential of berberine by its nanoencapsulation. Berberine loaded guar-acacia gum nanocomplexes (Ber/Gu-AGNCs) were prepared by ionic complexation method; characterized and evaluated for anti-obesity activity in high fat diet (HFD) induced obese rats. HFD was given to animals for 6 consecutive weeks. Orlistat (20 mg/kg, p.o.), berberine (10 mg/kg), Ber/Gu-AGNCs (10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o) and Gu-AGNCs (blank) were administered once a day after giving HFD for 6 weeks; and continued up to 12 weeks along with HFD. Obesity was evaluated by the measurement of morphological parameters, blood glucose, serum lipid profiles, liver enzymes and levels of oxidative stress markers. Moreover, histopathological studies of liver and adipose tissue were also carried out. The results showed that Ber/Gu-AGNCs exhibited spherical morphology and narrow size distribution. In addition, Ber/Gu-AGNCs were significantly more effective in controlling the body weight, body mass index (BMI), adiposity index, liver index, blood glucose levels, serum lipids and oxidative stress levels in comparison to berberine in HFD-induced obese rats. Furthermore, histopathological examination of liver and adipose tissue revealed the anti-obesity effect of Ber/Gu-AGNCs (10 and 20 mg/kg), as indicated by decrease in hepatosteatosis and inflammation in liver tissue; and decrease in the size of adipocytes in fat depots. Thus, nanoencapsulation of berberine into gum nanocomplexes displayed better anti-obesity activity when compared to free berberine.

In the current industrial scenario, mercury (Hg) as a metal is of great importance but poses a major threat to the ecosystem because of its toxicity, but fewer studies have been conducted on its effects and alleviation strategies by using nanoparticles (NPs) and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Taking into consideration the positive effects of iron oxide (Fe3O4)⎯NPs and Enterobacter cloacae rhizobacteria in reducing Hg toxicity in plants, the present study was conducted. A pot experiment was conducted over 60 days using wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to investigate the effects of varying Hg levels (0, 50 and 100 mg kg⎯1) combined with different concentrations of Fe3O4-NPs (25 and 50 mg L-1) and E. cloacae (10 and 20 ppm) on various morpho-physio-biochemical responses. The research outcomes indicated that elevated levels of Hg stress in the soil significantly (P < 0.05) decreased plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments, nutrients uptake and gas exchange attributes. However, Hg stress also induced oxidative stress in the plants by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which also induced increased compounds of various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and also the gene expression and sugar content. Furthermore, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in proline metabolism, the ascorbate-glutathione (AsA-GSH) cycle were observed. Although, the application of Fe3O4-NPs and E. cloacae showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in plant growth and biomass, nutrients uptake, gas exchange characteristics, enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds, and their gene expression and also decreased oxidative stress. In addition, the application of Fe3O4-NPs and E. cloacae enhanced cellular fractionation and decreased the proline metabolism and AsA-GSH cycle in T. aestivum seedlings. Research findings, therefore, suggest that the application of Fe3O4-NPs and E. cloacae can ameliorate Hg toxicity in T. aestivum seedlings, resulting in improved plant growth and composition under metal stress, as depicted by balanced antioxidant defense mechanism.

Maternal protein restriction (MPR) can significantly affect offspring's early development and aging, impacting several organs, including the adrenal glands. This study evaluated the adrenal proteomic profile in male rat offspring exposed to MPR during pregnancy and lactation. Male offspring were divided into two groups: Control (CTR), born to dams fed a normoprotein diet (17 % protein), and Gestational and Lactational Low-Protein (GLLP), born to dams fed a low-protein diet (6 % protein) throughout gestation and lactation, and after received control diet. Offspring were euthanized at postnatal day (PND) 21 or PND 540. Blood samples and adrenal glands were processed for histological, metabolic, molecular, and proteomic assessments. At PND21, the GLLP group exhibited reduced adrenal gland mass and cortical thickness. At PND21, the proteomic landscape showed that the most impacted biological pathways were associated with decreased steroid hormone synthesis, increased glucose metabolism, and stress response. At PND540, the main impacts were increased apoptotic pathway, stress response, and steroid hormone synthesis, with decreased glucose metabolism. At PND 540, the GLLP group showed higher adrenal collagen content and elevated apoptosis. Age-related changes included decreased peroxiredoxin 3 and increased expression of aldosterone synthase (Cyp11b2). Furthermore, steroid 11-Beta-Hydroxylase (Cyp11b1) expression decreased at PND540, alongside reduced serum aldosterone and elevated serum corticosterone levels. These results suggest that MPR modulates the adrenal glands' proteomic profile, serving as a pivotal mechanism underpinning diverse systemic diseases. It influences adrenal morphophysiology early in life, with long-lasting consequences for cellular stress, immune response, and catabolic pathways in male offspring with aging.

The parasitic plants dodders (Cuscuta spp., Convolvulaceae) can often simultaneously parasitize two or more neighbouring hosts, forming dodder-connected plant clusters. In a dodder-connected plant cluster, salt-induced systemic priming signals are transferred from the salt-stressed host (signal donor, SD) to the other host (signal receiver, SR) through dodder and prime the SR plants for enhanced salt tolerance, but what signalling pathways regulate the dodder-mediated interplant priming signals remain unclear. In this study, using genetic analyses, we show that in dodder-connected tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) clusters, the strigolactone (SL), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and abscisic acid (ABA) pathway in the SD plants negatively control the salt stress-induced systemic signals from SD to SR plants. Transcriptome data suggested that the salt-induced systemic signals regulated by SLs in the SD plants may also affect the ABA and ROS signalling pathway in the SR plants. Quantification of the ABA and H2O2 contents in the SD plants suggested that the SL and ROS signalling likely converge on the ABA pathway to regulate the priming signals. This study reveals the important regulatory roles of phytohormones and ROS in dodder-mediated interplant communications and provides new insight into systemic signalling during salt stress adaptation in individual plants.

A 16-week feeding trial was done to examine the impacts of continuous feeding (CF) or pulse-feeding (PF) of multi-strain probiotics on Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer, 30.0 ± 0.1 g) juveniles. In this study, three different multi-strain probiotic mixtures were added to a basal diet, including (I) a mixture of different strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, (II) a mixture of the first probiotic (I) + L. delbrueckii sub bulgaricus, L. rhamnosus and L. acidophilus, and (III) a mixture of the second probiotic (II) + two quorum quenching (QQ) bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis QQ1 and B. cereus QQ2). CF (every day) or PF (every two weeks) strategies were applied for using the abovementioned probiotics to design seven experimental groups including C (control, without probiotics), CF-I (continuous feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture I), CF-II (continuous feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture II), CF-III (continuous feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture III), PF-I (pulse-feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture I), PF-II (pulse-feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture II), and PF-III (pulse-feeding of fish with the probiotic mixture III). Four hundred and twenty fish were stocked into 21 circular polyethylene tanks with 220 L volume (20 fish/tank). Each dietary treatment had three replicates. Tanks were supplied with seawater (temperature = 30.5 °C, salinity = 45 g L-1) in a flow-throw system. Fish in CF-I, CF-II, and CF-III had higher growth rate (ca. 113-145%) and better feed conversion ratio than fish fed C and PF-I (P < 0.05). Fish in the CF-III group had the highest protease activity. Continuous feeding strategy resulted in a higher amount of glutathione and catalase activities in both the liver and plasma as well as higher superoxide dismutase activity in the liver of fish. Pulse-feeding strategy resulted in lower plasma lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase levels than the CF strategy. Regardless of feeding strategy, different probiotic mixtures significantly enhanced blood hemoglobin and hematocrit levels compared to the control. Continuous feeding with the multi-strain probiotics resulted in a higher survival rate against Vibrio harveyi than the PF method. Continuous feeding induced higher mRNA transcription levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming cells and interleukin 10 genes in the gut of fish than PF strategy. In conclusion, continuous feeding with multi-strain probiotics is better than pulse-feeding on growth, feed utilization, antioxidant capacity, and the gut's immune-related genes and led to higher resistance of L. calcarifer in challenge with V. harveyi.

The objective of this study was to detect the effects of acute aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and the effectiveness of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and silicate in reducing these effects. Two hundred and forty Nile tilapia fingerlings (16 ± 0.5 g) were randomly assigned to four experimental groups, each with 60 fish and three replicates. Control basal diet (Diet 1) and three test diets were formulated, where Diet 2 was supplemented with 200 ppb AFB1. Diets 3 and 4 were intoxicated with AFB1 (200 ppb) and supplemented with 0.5% S. cerevisiae or 0.5%, respectively. After 60 days, Diet 1 had considerably greater growth characteristics than the other groups (p < 0.05). Diet 2 revealed a reduced (p < 0.05) survival rate after 1 month of exposure. In addition, Diet 1 showed higher (p < 0.05) total protein and albumin levels than Diets 3 and 4. AFB1 residues were detected in the liver in fish-fed Diet 2, Diet 4, and Diet 3. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, and urea levels increased (p < 0.05) in fish-fed Diet 2. The glutathione peroxidase, lysozyme, and catalase activity were decreased (p < 0.05) in the fish-fed Diet 2. The malondialdehyde level was significantly higher in fish given Diet 2 (p < 0.05) than in fish-fed Diets 3 and 4. Histopathological investigation of fish-fed Diet 2 revealed impaired liver and spleen; however, both treatments (Diets 3 and 4) successfully lowered inflammation and preserved liver and spleen integrities. In conclusion, AFB1 impaired growth performance and posed a severe health risk to Nile tilapia. Furthermore, S. cerevisiae alleviated the contamination of AFB1 effects more efficiently than silicate employed for toxin adsorption.

Arsenic (As) residue is present predominantly in aquatic ecosystem and fishery products globally, which is critically hazardous to both fish and consumer health beyond its permissible limit. Therefore, finding effective ways to mitigate As toxicity has become a priority. Hence, Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera), a medicinal plant containing several pharmacological properties, was evaluated for reducing adverse effects of sub-lethal concentration of As (1/3rd of 96 h LC50 = 6.75 mgL-1) in Labeo rohita (Rahu). Briefly, healthy acclimatized individual of L. rohita were allotted into four aquariums and named as T1, T2, T3 and T4. Each group had three replicates (10 fish in each aquarium). T1 group served as control, exposed with no As and fed with basal diet. T2, T3 and T4 groups were exposed to As and treated with 0, 2 and 4 % M. oleifera leaf extract supplemented diet respectively, for 28 days. Fish exposed to As and fed a diet with 0 % M. oleifera leaf extract exhibited increased histological alterations, elevated levels of liver enzymes, cortisol, antioxidant status, and relative expression of the cytochrome P450 gene, while showing significant decreases in skin mucosal immune responses (lysozyme, protease, antiprotease, and peroxidase activities). However, As exposed fish group fed with diets containing 2 % or 4 % M. oleifera leaf extract, the histological alterations were reduced, level of liver enzymes, cortisol, upregulation of anti-oxidant enzyme, relative expression of cytochrome P450 gene and skin mucosal immune responses were normalized, with (4 %) M. oleifera leaf extract supplemented diet showing more prominent effects. These results suggest the protective and therapeutic roles of M. oleifera as a feed supplement in L. rohita against As induced toxicity.

As several decades of research have shown the cardioprotective effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors alone or in combination with diuretics, we were interested in investigating the effects of subchronic therapy of these drugs on ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) damage to the heart, as well as their influence on oxidative status. The research was conducted on 40 spontaneously hypertensive male Wistar Kyoto rats, divided into 4 groups. Animals were treated for four weeks with 10 mg/kg/day zofenopril alone or in combination with hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide and spironolactone per os. After the treatment, hemodynamic measurements, echocardiography and assessment of myocardial function were performed according to Langendorff's retrograde perfusion method. The induced global ischemia model involved 20 min of ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion to the heart (I20:R30). Markers of oxidative stress were determined spectrophotometrically from plasma and erythrocyte lysates. Heart and kidney tissue samples were pathohistologically analyzed. Treatment with a combination of ACE inhibitors and diuretics significantly lowered blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats, alleviated left ventricular hypertrophy and increased ejection fraction. On the other hand, treatment with zofenopril and diuretics showed pro-oxidative potential. Pathohistological analysis of heart and kidney tissue samples indicates that subchronic administration of antihypertensive agents does not lead to significant changes in these organs. Since the antihypertensive therapy was relatively short (only 4 weeks), in order to elucidate or deny the prooxidative mechanism, additional studies of a longer time interval are needed and planned.

Leukoencephalopathy with brain stem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL) is a disorder caused by mutations in the mitochondrial aspartyl-tRNA synthetase gene DARS2, which compromises mitochondrial protein translation. The typical presentation is juvenile in onset with gradually progressive spasticity and ataxia. Only palliative treatment is available for LBSL individuals. Here we showed that the use of the Food and Drug Administration-approved heme precursors, aminolevulinate plus ferrous iron (ALA/Fe), can result in a novel pharmacological treatment that increases energy status in DARS2 deficient cells. The marked mitochondrial and antioxidant deficiencies observed in fibroblasts from two LBSL-affected brothers, harboring intron-2 (c.228-17C > G) and intron-5 (c.492 + 2 T > C) DARS2 mutations, were rescued by ALA/Fe exposure, and the use of dexamethasone, a known Nrf-2 inhibitor, blocked the positive effects of ALA/Fe. Altogether, this study showed that fibroblasts can be used as a biological system to identify potential new treatments for LBSL that can reduce morbidity and mortality, and that the activation of Nrf-2-mediated cytoprotection can be targeted for the treatment of LBSL and other mitochondrial diseases.

Toxic manifestations of different antibiotics and metal compounds have been studied comprehensively in the last decades; however, their co-toxicity on aquatic organisms is poorly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the oxidative stress imposed on zebrafish kidney tissue when exposed to amoxicillin (AMX, 10 μg/L) alone or in combination with 50 μg/L of As2O3 (equivalent to 37.87 μg/L of As) and/or 15 mg/L of NaF (equivalent to 6.8 mg/L of F) for 15 days. We observed increased levels of cellular ROS, MDA, and GSH along with increased activity of CAT enzyme in all the treated groups. Disrupted histoarchitecture, including degeneration of tubular cells, vacuolation, and necrotic spots, was indicative of oxidative damage. mRNA expression of stress responsive genes like nrf2, gpx1, hsp70, keap1, nqo1, cat, and ho1 corroborated the data. Translocation of Nrf2 from cytoplasm to nucleus and its subsequent expression was higher for all the treated groups. Moreover, the mixture effects of AMX + As + F were more severe than the other combinations, while unique exposure with AMX had minimum effects. Highlighting the involvement of the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE pathway, these findings make us aware of the synergistic response of AMX, As, and F in the ecosystem, putting forward a great threat to humankind.

Microplastics (MPs) pose an increasing and significant threat to marine biodiversity and there is a current need to determine the effects of exposure on benthic sessile invertebrates. This study examines the filtration capacity and retention of MP particles, as well as their physiological impacts in the marine sponge Spongia officinalis, a bioindicator species. The findings revealed a very high filtration capacity for MPs within the size range of 1-5 μm, along with a rapid turnover rate, as a large portion of particles were expelled within 48 h of exposure. Histological analyses detected MP particles within the cellular structures of the analyzed tissues, indicating that MPs of this size can penetrate cellular barriers. In terms of physiological effects, detoxification activity was activated during the depuration phase, and lipid peroxidation was observed during both the exposure and depuration phases. Overall, this study provides critical insights into the filtration and retention capacity, intercellular integration of MP particles, and the physiological effects of MP exposure in S. officinalis, providing a baseline for future research.

Extensive uses of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in different industries result in exposure to these nanoparticle imperatives in our daily lives. Resveratrol is found in many plants as a natural compound. The present study aimed to estimate the renal toxic effects of Ag NPs in adult male albino rats and the underlying relevant mechanisms while studying the possible role of resveratrol in ameliorating these effects. Thirty adult albino rats were split into 5 groups; control, vehicle, resveratrol (30 mg/kg), Ag NPs (300 mg/kg), and resveratrol + Ag NPs groups. The treatments were given orally for 4 weeks. Ag NPs group displayed a reduction in kidney weight ( absolute and relative), excess in urinary levels of kidney injury molecule, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, cystatin, and blood kidney biomarkers (creatinine, urea, and potassium), increases in oxidative stress markers with the reduction in antioxidant markers, and decreases in serum sirtuin 1(SIRT1) level. Upregulation of interleukin 1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 gene expressions with downregulation of nephrin and podocin gene expressions in renal tissues were also observed. These changes were associated with histological alterations of the glomeruli and tubules, and increased area percentage of collagen fiber. A significant increase in the optical density of transforming growth factor-beta 1 and claudin-1 immunostaining was detected in the Ag NPs group when compared to other groups. All these changes were alleviated by the usage of resveratrol through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and activation of SIRT1 recommending its use as a renoprotective agent.