Effects of glyphosate herbicide ingestion on kidney function in rats on a balanced diet / Efeitos da ingestão do herbicida glifosato na função renal de ratos em uma dieta balanceada

Abstract Introduction: Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide worldwide and in Brazil. There is currently increasing concern about the effects of glyphosate on human health. The Brazilian Institute for Consumer Protection showed data on the presence of glyphosate in some of Brazil's most consumed ultra-processed products. Currently, regulations on the upper limit for these residues in ultra-processed foods have yet to be established by the National Health Surveillance, and ultra-processed food consumption is independently associated with an increased risk of incident chronic kidney disease. Methods: Since an unbalanced diet can interfere with kidney function, this study aims to investigate the effect of daily intake of 5 mg/kg bw glyphosate in conjunction with a balanced diet and the possible impact on renal function in rats. Kidney function, kidney weight, markers of renal injury, and oxidative stress were evaluated. Results: There was a decrease in kidney weight. The main histopathological alterations in renal tissues were vacuolation in the initial stage and upregulation of the kidney injury marker KIM-1. Renal injury is associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species in mitochondria. Conclusion: This study showed changes in the kidney of rats exposed to a balanced diet with glyphosate, suggesting a potential risk to human kidney. Presumably, ultra-processed food that contain glyphosate can potentiate this risk. The relevance of these results lies in drawing attention to the need to regulate glyphosate concentration in ultra-processed foods in the future.

RESUMO Introdução: O glifosato é o herbicida mais utilizado no mundo e no Brasil. Atualmente, há uma preocupação crescente com os efeitos do glifosato na saúde humana. O Instituto Brasileiro de Defesa do Consumidor apresentou dados sobre a presença de glifosato em alguns dos produtos ultraprocessados mais consumidos no Brasil. Atualmente, as regulamentações sobre o limite máximo desses resíduos em alimentos ultraprocessados ainda não foram estabelecidas pela Vigilância Sanitária Nacional, e o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados está indepen­dentemente associado a um risco maior de doença renal crônica incidente. Métodos: Como uma dieta desbalanceada pode interferir na função renal, este estudo tem como objetivo investigar o efeito da ingestão diária de 5 mg/kg pc de glifosato em conjunto com uma dieta equilibrada e o possível impacto na função renal em ratos. Foram avaliados função renal, peso dos rins, marcadores de lesão renal e estresse oxidativo. Resultados: Houve redução no peso dos rins. As principais alterações histopatológicas nos tecidos renais foram vacuolização no estágio inicial e regulação positiva do marcador de lesão renal KIM-1. A lesão renal está associada à produção aumentada de espécies reativas de oxigênio nas mitocôndrias. Conclusão: Esse estudo mostrou alterações nos rins de ratos expostos a uma dieta balanceada com glifosato, sugerindo um risco potencial ao rim humano. Presumivelmente, alimentos ultraprocessados que contenham glifosato podem potencializar esse risco. A relevância desses resultados está no fato de chamar a atenção para a necessidade de regulamentar a concentração de glifosato em alimentos ultraprocessados no futuro.

An Assessment of Ankle Function, Oxidative Damage, and Inflammatory Factor Levels in Minimally Invasive Ankle Joint Fusion Surgery for the Treatment of Traumatic Ankle Osteoarthritis

SUMMARY: Traumatic ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition resulting from traumatic injuries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of minimally invasive ankle joint fusion surgery on ankle function, oxidative damage, and inflammatory factor levels in traumatic ankle osteoarthritis patients. A total of 112 traumatic ankle osteoarthritis patients treated in our hospital from January 2022 to January 2023 were enrolled. They were randomly rolled into a control group (Group C) and an experimental group (Group E), with the former undergoing conventional open ankle joint fusion surgery and the latter receiving minimally invasive ankle joint fusion surgery. A comparison was made between the two groups based on American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), bony fusion rates, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores at pre-operation, and at 1, 2, and 3 months post-operation. Additionally, serum oxidative damage indicators and inflammatory factor levels were measured to evaluate the recovery effects in both groups. Relative to Group C, Group E showed drastically increased AOFAS scores and bony fusion rates (P<0.05), as well as greatly decreased VAS scores (P<0.05). Moreover, Group E exhibited more pronounced improvements in oxidative damage indicators and inflammatory factors versus Group C (P<0.05). Minimally invasive ankle joint fusion surgery drastically improves ankle function in traumatic ankle osteoarthritis patients and reduces levels of oxidative damage and inflammatory response. This provides an important clinical treatment option.

La osteoartritis traumática del tobillo es una afección degenerativa resultante de lesiones traumáticas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el impacto de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva de fusión de la articulación talocrural sobre la función del tobillo, el daño oxidativo y los niveles de factor inflamatorio en pacientes con osteoartritis traumática del tobillo. Se inscribieron un total de 112 pacientes con artrosis traumática de tobillo tratados en nuestro hospital desde enero de 2022 hasta enero de 2023. Fueron divididos aleatoriamente en un grupo de control (Grupo C) y un grupo experimental (Grupo E), donde el primero se sometió a una cirugía de fusión de la articulación talocrural abierta convencional y el segundo recibió una cirugía de fusión de la articulación talocrural mínimamente invasiva. Se realizó una comparación entre los dos grupos según la Sociedad Estadounidense de Ortopedia de Pie y Tobillo (AOFAS), las tasas de fusión ósea y las puntuaciones de la escala visual analógica (EVA) antes de la operación y 1, 2 y 3 meses después de la operación. Además, se midieron los indicadores de daño oxidativo sérico y los niveles de factor inflamatorio para evaluar los efectos de la recuperación en ambos grupos. En relación con el grupo C, el grupo E mostró puntuaciones AOFAS y tasas de fusión ósea drásticamente aumentadas (P <0,05), así como puntuaciones VAS muy disminuidas (P <0,05). Además, el grupo E exhibió mejoras más pronunciadas en los indicadores de daño oxidativo y factores inflamatorios en comparación con el grupo C (P <0,05). La cirugía de fusión de la articulación talocrural mínimamente invasiva mejora drásticamente la función del tobillo en pacientes con osteoartritis traumática del tobillo y reduce los niveles de daño oxidativo y la respuesta inflamatoria. Esto proporciona una importante opción de tratamiento clínico.

Effect of octreotide on oxidative stress in the erythrocyte and kidney tissue in adriamycin-induced experimental nephrotic syndrome model / Efeito do octreotide no estresse oxidativo em eritrócitos e no tecido renal no modelo de síndrome nefrótica experimental induzida por adriamicina

Abstract Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is one of the reasons of end-stage kidney disease, and elucidating the pathogenesis and offer new treatment options is important. Oxidative stress might trigger pathogenesis systemically or isolated in the kidneys. Octreotide (OCT) has beneficial antioxidant effects. We aimed to investigate the source of oxidative stress and the effect of OCT on experimental NS model. Methods: Twenty-four non-uremic Wistar albino rats were divided into 3 groups. Control group, 2 mL saline intramuscular (im); NS group, adriamycin 5 mg/kg intravenous (iv); NS treatment group, adriamycin 5 mg/kg (iv) and OCT 200 mcg/kg (im) were administered at baseline (Day 0). At the end of 21 days, creatinine and protein levels were measured in 24-hour urine samples. Erythrocyte and renal catalase (CAT) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) were measured. Renal histology was also evaluated. Results: There was no significant difference among the 3 groups in terms of CAT and TBARS in erythrocytes. Renal CAT level was lowest in NS group, and significantly lower than the control group. In treatment group, CAT level significantly increased compared with NS group. In terms of renal histology, tubular and interstitial evaluations were similar in all groups. Glomerular score was significantly higher in NS group compared with control group and it was significantly decreased in treatment group compared to NS group. Conclusions: Oxidative stress in NS might be due to the decrease in antioxidant protection mechanism in kidney. Octreotide improves antioxidant levels and histology in renal tissue and might be a treatment option.

Resumo Introdução: Síndrome nefrótica (SN) é uma das causas de doença renal em estágio terminal. É importante elucidar a patogênese e oferecer novas opções de tratamento. Estresse oxidativo pode desencadear a patogênese sistemicamente ou isoladamente nos rins. O octreotide (OCT) tem efeitos antioxidantes benéficos. Nosso objetivo foi investigar a fonte de estresse oxidativo e efeito do OCT no modelo experimental de SN. Métodos: Dividimos 24 ratos albinos Wistar não urêmicos em 3 grupos. Grupo controle, 2 mL de solução salina intramuscular (im); grupo SN, adriamicina 5 mg/kg intravenosa (iv); grupo tratamento SN, adriamicina 5 mg/kg (iv) e OCT 200 mcg/kg (im) foram administrados no início do estudo (Dia 0). Aos 21 dias, mediram-se os níveis de creatinina e proteína em amostras de urina de 24 horas. Mediu-se a catalase (CAT) eritrocitária e renal e a substância reativa ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS). Avaliou-se também histologia renal. Resultados: Não houve diferença significativa entre os três grupos em termos de CAT e TBARS em eritrócitos. O nível de CAT renal foi menor no grupo SN e significativamente menor que no grupo controle. No grupo tratamento, o nível de CAT aumentou significativamente em comparação com o grupo SN. Quanto à histologia renal, as avaliações tubular e intersticial foram semelhantes em todos os grupos. O escore glomerular foi significativamente maior no grupo SN em comparação com o grupo controle e diminuiu significativamente no grupo de tratamento em comparação com o grupo SN. Conclusões: Estresse oxidativo na SN pode ser devido à diminuição do mecanismo de proteção antioxidante nos rins. O octreotide melhora níveis de antioxidantes e histologia do tecido renal e pode ser uma opção de tratamento.

Puerarin protects the fatty liver from ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Abstract The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) remains high, and many NAFLD patients suffer from severe ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Currently, no practical approach can be used to treat IRI. Puerarin plays a vital role in treating multiple diseases, such as NAFLD, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure. However, its role in the IRI of the fatty liver is still unclear. We aimed to explore whether puerarin could protect the fatty liver from IRI. C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high‐fat diet (HFD) followed by ischemia reperfusion injury. We showed that hepatic IRI was more severe in the fatty liver compared with the normal liver, and puerarin could significantly protect the fatty liver against IRI and alleviate oxidative stress. The PI3K-AKT signaling pathway was activated during IRI, while liver steatosis decreased the level of activation. Puerarin significantly protected the fatty liver from IRI by reactivating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. However, LY294002, a PI3K-AKT inhibitor, attenuated the protective effect of puerarin. In conclusion, puerarin could significantly protect the fatty liver against IRI by activating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.

Improvement of Na+-K+ ATPase Activity and Gene Expression Associated with Glomerular Ultrastructural Protection in Diabetic Nephropathy by Acacia senegal: Role of Oxidative Stress Disturbances / Mejora de la actividad Na+-K+ ATPasa y la Expresión Génica Asociada con la Protección Ultraestructural Glomerular en la Nefropatía Diabética por Acacia senegal: Papel de las Alteraciones del Estrés Oxidativo

SUMMARY: This study assessed the effects of Acacia Senegal (AS) combined with insulin on Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) activity and mRNA expression, serum glucose, renal function, and oxidative stress in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Sixty rats were equally divided into six groups: normal control, normal+AS, diabetic (DM), DM+insulin, DM+AS, and DM+insulin+AS groups. Diabetes mellitus (type 1) was induced by a single injection of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg), and insulin and AS treatments were carried until rats were culled at the end of week 12. Serum glucose and creatinine levels, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were measured. Renal homogenate levels of NKA activity and gene expression, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated as well as kidney tissue histology and ultrastructure. Diabetes caused glomerular damage and modulation of blood and tissue levels of creatinine, glucose, HbA1c, malondialdehyde, NKA activity and gene expression, SOD, catalase and GSH, which were significantly (p<0.05) treated with AS, insulin, and insulin plus AS. However, AS+insulin treatments were more effective. In conclusion, combined administration of AS with insulin to rats with DN decreased NKA activity and gene expression as well as oxidative stress, and improved glycemic state and renal structure and function.

Este estudio evaluó los efectos de Acacia senegal (AS) combinada con insulina sobre la actividad Na+/K+- ATPasa (NKA) y la expresión de ARNm, la glucosa sérica, la función renal y el estrés oxidativo en un modelo de nefropatía diabética (ND) en ratas. Sesenta ratas se dividieron equitativamente en seis grupos: control normal, normal+AS, diabética (DM), DM+insulina, DM+AS y DM+insulina+AS. La diabetes mellitus (tipo 1) se indujo mediante una única inyección de estreptozotocina (65 mg/kg), y los tratamientos con insulina y AS se llevaron a cabo hasta que las ratas fueron sacrificadas al final de la semana 12. Se midieron niveles séricos de glucosa y creatinina, hemoglobina A1c (HbA1c). Se evaluaron los niveles de homogeneizado renal de actividad NKA y expresión génica, malondialdehído, superóxido dismutasa (SOD), catalasa y glutatión reducido (GSH), así como la histología y ultraestructura del tejido renal. La diabetes causó daño glomerular y modulación de los niveles sanguíneos y tisulares de creatinina, glucosa, HbA1c, malondialdehído, actividad y expresión génica de NKA, SOD, catalasa y GSH, los cuales fueron tratados significativamente (p<0,05) con AS, insulina e insulina más AS. Sin embargo, los tratamientos con AS+insulina fueron más efectivos. En conclusión, la administración combinada de AS con insulina a ratas con DN disminuyó la actividad de NKA y la expresión genética, así como el estrés oxidativo, y mejoró el estado glucémico y la estructura y función renal.

Induced acute hyperglycemia modifies the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium by tissue inflammation and tight junction disruption resulting in hydroelectrolytic secretion in an animal model

Abstract Diabetic-metabolic syndrome (MetS-D) has a high prevalence worldwide, in which an association with the rupture of the intestinal epithelium barrier function (IEBF) has been pointed out, but the functional and morphological properties are still not well understood. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of acute hyperglycemia diabetes on intestinal tight junction proteins, metabolic failure, intestinal ion and water transports, and IEBF parameters. Diabetes was induced in male Rattus norvegicus (200-310 g) with 0.5 mL of streptozotocin (70 mg/kg). Glycemic and clinical parameters were evaluated every 7 days, and intestinal parameters were evaluated on the 14th day. The MetS-D animals showed a clinical pattern of hyperglycemia, with increases in the area of villi and crypts, lactulose:mannitol ratio, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and intestinal tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), but showed a reduction in reduced glutathione (GSH) when these parameters were compared to the control. The MetS-D group had increased secretion of Na+, K+, Cl-, and water compared to the control group in ileal tissue. Furthermore, we observed a reduction in mRNA transcript of claudin-2, claudin-15, and NHE3 and increases of SGLT-1 and ZO-1 in the MetS-D group. These results showed that MetS-D triggered intestinal tissue inflammation, oxidative stress, complex alterations in gene regulatory protein transcriptions of intestinal transporters and tight junctions, damaging the IEBF and causing hydroelectrolyte secretion.

The essential role of adenine nucleotide translocase 4 on male reproductive function in mice

Adenine nucleotide translocator 4 (Ant4), an ATP/ADP transporter expressed in the early phases of spermatogenesis, plays a crucial role in male fertility. While Ant4 loss causes early arrest of meiosis and increased apoptosis of spermatogenic cells in male mice, its other potential functions in male fertility remain unexplored. Here, we utilized Ant4 knockout mice to delineate the effects of Ant4-deficiency on male reproduction. Our observations demonstrated that Ant4-deficiency led to infertility and impaired testicular development, which was further investigated by evaluating testicular oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation. Specifically, the loss of Ant4 led to an imbalance of oxidation and antioxidants. Significant ultrastructural alterations were identified in the testicular tissues of Ant4-deficient mice, including swelling of mitochondria, loss of cristae, and accumulation of autophagosomes. Our results also showed that autophagic flux and AKT-AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway were affected in Ant4-deficient mice. Moreover, Ant4 loss increased the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. Overall, our findings underscored the importance of Ant4 in regulating oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation in testicular tissues. Taken together, these insights provided a nuanced understanding of the significance of Ant4 in testicular development.

Influencia del consumo de hidratos de carbono sobre el estado oxidante en mujeres con y sin diabetes mellitus gestacional / Influence of carbohydrate intake on oxidative status among women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar la influencia del consumo de hidratos de carbono (HCO) sobre el estado oxidante en mujeres con y sin diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal, observacional y comparativo a dos grupos de 21 mujeres con y sin DMG, respectivamente, en la ciudad de Toluca, México, de enero a diciembre del 2022. Para evaluar parámetros sociodemográficos, se les aplicó un cuestionario de historia clínica; en cuanto a los parámetros antropométricos, se les midió peso corporal y estatura; y respecto a los parámetros bioquímicos, colesterol total (CT) y triglicéridos (TG). Para evaluar el estado oxidante/antioxidante se cuantificaron, como marcador oxidante, el malondihaldeído (MDA), y como antioxidantes, catalasa (cat), superóxido dismutasa (SOD) y capacidad antioxidante total (CAT). Los hábitos dietéticos se evaluaron a través de un recordatorio de 24 horas, en ambos grupos de mujeres, para obtener los macronutrientes: proteínas, lípidos e HCO. A partir de los hidratos de carbono totales (HCOT), se calcularon los hidratos de carbono complejos (HCOC) e hidratos de carbono simples (HCOS) como la sacarosa. Para el cálculo de HCOS por día, se usó la lista de alimentos con contenido de sacarosa por cada 100 gramos de consumo que emplea el Sistema Mexicano de Equivalentes; para el análisis de dieta, se utilizó el programa Nutrikcal VO. Se usaron las pruebas estadísticas t de Student para muestras independientes, U de Mann-Whitney para las variables no homogéneas y se realizó la correlación de Spearman (p < 0,05) en el programa SPSS, versión 19. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron que la diferencia entre los valores de CT (p < 0,029), TG (p < 0,029), las enzimas: cat (p < 0,011), SOD (p < 0,013), así como el MDA (p < 0,039), fueron significativamente mayores en las pacientes del grupo con DMG en comparación con el grupo sin DMG. Además, el grupo con DMG consumió mayor proporción de sacarosa. Conclusiones: Las mujeres con DMG tienen un desequilibrio en el estado oxidante/antioxidante influenciado por el tipo de HCO que consumen, en particular los HCOS como la sacarosa.

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the influence of carbohydrate (CHO) intake on oxidative status among women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, observational and comparative study was carried out with two groups of 21 women each with and without GDM in the city of Toluca, Mexico, from January to December 2022. The sociodemographic parameters were determined by administering the patients a medical history questionnaire; anthropometric parameters such as body weight and height were measured; and biochemical parameters including total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) were calculated. The oxidant/antioxidant status was assessed as follows: malondialdehyde (MDA) as oxidative stress marker; and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as antioxidants. Dietary habits were evaluated through a 24-hour reminder in both groups of women to obtain the macronutrient classes, i.e., proteins, fats and CHOs. Based on the total carbohydrates (TCHOs), complex (CCHOs) and simple carbohydrates (SCHOs) such as sucrose were calculated. SCHOs per day were measured using the list of foods with sucrose content per 100 grams according to the Mexican Food Equivalence System (SMAE). The NutriKcal VO program was used for the dietary analysis. Statistical tests such as Student's t test and Mann-Whitney U test were performed for the independent samples and nonhomogeneous variables, respectively, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (p < 0.05) was determined using the IBM SPSS Statistics V19. Results: The results showed that the difference between the levels of TC (p < 0.029), TG (p < 0.029), enzymes CAT (p < 0.011) and SOD (p < 0.013), as well as MDA (p < 0.039) was significantly higher among patients in the group with GDM compared to that in the group without GDM. In addition, the group with GDM consumed a higher proportion of sucrose. Conclusions: Women with GDM have an imbalance in the oxidant/antioxidant status, influenced by the type of CHO they consume, particularly SCHOs such as sucrose.

Preventive effects of systemic Pistacia eurycarpa Yalt. administration on alveolar bone loss and oxidative stress in rats with experimental periodontitis

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of systemic administration of P. eurycarpa Yalt. plant extract on alveolar bone loss and oxidative stress biomarkers in gingival tissue in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. Methodology: 32 male Wistar albino rats, weighing 200-250 g, were divided into four groups (n=8): Healthy control (HC), Experimental periodontitis control (EPC), Experimental periodontitis 400 mg/kg (EP400), Experimental periodontitis 800 mg/kg (EP800). Experimental periodontitis was induced using the ligating method. Distilled water was administered to the HC and EPC groups and the plant extract was administered to the EP400 and EP800 groups by oral gavage at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg, respectively. The rats were sacrificed on the 15th day. The values of glutathione peroxidase GSH-Px, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismustase (SOD), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-10 (IL-10), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI) in the gingival tissues were analyzed by ELISA tests. Alveolar bone loss was assessed using micro-CT images of the maxilla. Results: Although the IL-1β, TOS, OSI results of the healthy control group were lower than those of the other groups, the TAS values were higher (p<0.05). No significant difference was found in the biochemical parameters among the EPC, EP400, and EP800 groups (p>0.05). Alveolar bone loss was significantly reduced in the extract groups compared to the EPC group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it was observed that the systemic P. eurycarpa extract application reduced alveolar bone loss in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the beneficial effects of P. eurycarpa.

Comparing the effects of serum GPER-1 and oxidant/antioxidant levels on retinopathy in patients with diabetes and healthy individuals: a pilot study / Comparando o impacto do soro GPER-1 e dos níveis de oxidante/antioxidante na retinopatia em pacientes diabéticos e em indivíduos saudáveis: um estudo piloto

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to determine the effect of serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 levels on the development of retinopathy in patients with diabetes in comparison with healthy individuals. Methods: The study enrolled patients with diabetic retinopathy (Group 1), patients without diabetic retinopathy (Group 2), and healthy individuals (Group 3). Levels of serum progesterone, serum G receptor-mediated protein-1, estradiol, oxidant/antioxidants, and thyroid-releasing hormones were analyzed and compared among the groups. Post-hoc analysis was performed to compare the subgroups in which significant differences were found. Results: Groups 1, 2, and 3 each included 40 patients. A significant difference was found among all groups in terms of serum G receptor-mediated protein-1, oxidant/antioxidant, and estradiol levels (p<0.01), but no significant difference was found in terms of thyroid-releasing hormone or progesterone (p=0.496, p=0.220, respectively). In the post-hoc analysis of the groups with significant differences, another significant difference was found among all groups for serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 and oxidant/antioxidant levels (p<0.05). Serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 and oxidant levels were positively correlated, whereas serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 and antioxidant levels were negatively correlated (r=0.622/p<0.01, r=0.453/p<0.01, r=0.460/p<0.01, respectively). The multiple regression analysis showed that increased levels of serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 may help prevent diabetic retinopathy. Conclusions: Serum G receptor-mediated protein-1 levels, which were the highest in the diabetic retinopathy Group, increased as the oxidant/antioxidant balance changed in favor of oxidative stress. This appears to be a defense mechanism for preventing neuronal damage.

RESUMO Objetivo: Esta pesquisa buscou determinar o im­pacto dos níveis de proteína G sérica no desenvolvimento da retinopatia em pacientes diabéticos, comparando-os a indivíduos saudáveis. Métodos: Foram incluídos, no estudo, 40 pacientes com retinopatia diabética (Grupo 1), 40 pacientes sem retinopatia diabética (Grupo 2) e 40 indivíduos saudáveis (Grupo 3). Os níveis hormonais de progesterona sérica, de proteína G sérica, estradiol, oxidante/antioxidante e hormônio liberado pela tireoide foram analisados e comparados. A análise post hoc foi realizada para comparar os subgrupos nos quais diferenças estatisticamente significativas foram encontradas. Resultados: Uma diferença significativa foi encontrada entre todos os grupos em termos de proteína G sérica, oxidante/antioxidante e níveis de estradiol (p<0.01), mas nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada em termos de hormônio liberado pela tireoide ou progesterona (p=0,496, p=0,220, respectivamente). Na análise post hoc dos grupos com diferenças estatisticamente significativas, outra diferença significativa foi encontrada entre todos os grupos para proteína G sérica e níveis oxidantes/antioxidantes (p<0,05). Os níveis de proteína G sérica e os níveis de oxidante foram positivamente correlacionados, enquanto os níveis de proteína G sérica e os níveis de antioxidantes foram negativamente correlacio­nados (r=0,622/p<0,01, r=0,453/p<0,01, r=0,460/p<0,01, respectivamente). A análise de regressão múltipla mos­trou que o aumento da proteína G sérica pode ajudar a prevenir a retinopatia diabética. Conclusões: Os níveis de proteína G sérica que eram mais altos no grupo de retinopatia diabética, aumentaram à medida que o equilíbrio oxidante/antioxidante mudou em favor do estresse oxidativo. Este parece ser um mecanismo de defesa para prevenir danos neuronais.

Expression of miR-210-3p in the aqueous humor of patients with age-related cataracts and its effect on human lens epithelial cell injury induced by hydrogen peroxide / Expressão de miR-210-3p no humor aquoso de pacientes com catarata relacionada à idade e seu efeito na lesão de células epiteliais do cristalino humano induzida por peróxido de hidrogênio

ABSTRACT Purpose: The regulatory effect of microRNA on diseases has been confirmed. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of microRNA-210-3p in age-related cataracts and assess the effect of abnormal miR-210-3p expressions on H2O2-induced SAR01/04 cells. Methods: Reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction method was performed to assess the levels of miR-210-3p in aqueous humor samples. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was employed to assess the discrimination ability of miR-210-3p between patients with age-related cataracts and healthy people, and Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify the correlation between miR-210-3p and oxidative stress indices such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, malonaldehyde. Cell counting kit-8 assay and Transwell assay were used to estimate the biological function of H2O2-induced age-related cataract cell model. The levels of oxidative stress indices such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and malonaldehyde were measured to evaluate the degree of oxidative stress damage in the age-related cataract cell model. The relationship between miR-210-3p and its target gene was verified by luciferase reporter gene analysis. Results: The miR-210-3p expression was elevated in the aqueous humor of patients with age-related cataracts. A high miR-210-3p expression showed a high diagnostic value for age-related cataracts and was significantly associated with the level of oxidative stress markers in patients with age-related cataracts. The inhibition of miR-210-3p can reverse oxidative stress stimulation and adverse effects on H2O2-induced cell function. Conclusions: The results suggested that miR-210-3p could promote cell viability, cell migration, and oxidative stress by targeting autophagy-related gene 7 in in vitro age-related cataract cell model.

RESUMO Objetivo: O efeito regulador do microRNA em doenças tem sido confirmado, e este artigo tentou avaliar a expressão do microRNA-210-3p na catarata relacionada à idade e avaliar o efeito da expressão anormal do miR-210-3p em células SAR01/04 induzidas por H2O2. Métodos: O método de transcrição reversa seguida de reação em cadeia da polimerase (RT-PCR) quantitativa foi realizado para avaliar os níveis de miR-210-3p em amostras de humor aquoso. Análise de características operacionais do receptor foi feita para avaliar a capacidade de discriminação do miR-210-3p entre pacientes com catarata relacionada à idade e pessoas saudáveis. A análise de correlação de Pearson identificou a correlação do miR-210-3p e índices de estresse oxidativo, como superóxido dismutase, glutationa peroxidase, malonaldeído. O ensaio de contagem de células kit-8 (cck-8) e o ensaio no sistema Transwell foram utilizados para estimar a função biológica do formato de células de catarata relacionada com a idade induzida por H2O2. Os níveis de índices de estresse oxidativo como superóxido dismutase, glutationa peroxidase e malonaldeído foram detectados para avaliar o grau de dano do estresse oxidativo em formato de células de catarata relacionada à idade. A relação entre miR-210-3p e seu gene alvo foi verificada por análise do gene repórter luciferase. Resultados: A expressão miR-210-3p foi elevada no humor aquoso de pacientes com catarata relacionada à idade. A expressão miR-210-3p altamente expressiva mostrou alto valor diagnóstico para catarata relacionada à idade e foi significativamente associado ao nível de marcadores de estresse oxidativo em pacientes com catarata relacionada à idade. A inibição de miR-210-3p pode reverter a estimulação do estresse oxidativo e os efeitos adversos da função celular induzida por H2O2. Conclusões: Esses dados sugeriram que a expressão miR-210-3p poderia promover a viabilidade celular, migração celular e estresse oxidativo ao direcionar genes ATG 7 relacionados à autofagia em modelo in vitro de células de catarata relacionadas à idade.

Is Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) Associated with NF-κB mRNA Expression in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease?

Abstract Background: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiota metabolite, is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. TMAO can trigger an inflammatory response by inducing the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling cascade and increasing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the worsening of CVD. This study aimed to evaluate the association between TMAO plasma levels and inflammation in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out including 29 patients with CAD. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from fasting blood samples, and NF-κB and vascular cell adhesion protein 1 (VCAM1) mRNA expression were estimated using real-time quantitative PCR. We determined TMAO plasma levels by LC-MS/MS and TNF-α by ELISA. Routine biochemical parameters were evaluated using an automatic biochemical analyzer. Correlations were estimated by Spearman or Pearson test. Statistical significance was set at the level of p < 0.05. Results: All patients presented TMAO levels within the normal range according to EUTox (normal range: 2.83 ± 1.53 mg/L; CAD patients: 0.2 [0.1 to 0.2] ng/μL). TMAO plasma levels were positively correlated with NF-κB mRNA expression (0.555; p = 0.002). Conclusion: TMAO plasma levels may be associated with NF-κB mRNA expression in patients with CAD and may contribute to the pathogenesis of this disease.

Embryo development is impaired by sperm mitochondrial-derived ROS

BACKGROUND: Basal energetic metabolism in sperm, particularly oxidative phosphorylation, is known to condition not only their oocyte fertilising ability, but also the subsequent embryo development. While the molecular pathways underlying these events still need to be elucidated, reactive oxygen species (ROS) could have a relevant role. We, therefore, aimed to describe the mechanisms through which mitochondrial activity can influence the first stages of embryo development. RESULTS: We first show that embryo development is tightly influenced by both intracellular ROS and mitochondrial activity. In addition, we depict that the inhibition of mitochondrial activity dramatically decreases intracellular ROS levels. Finally, we also demonstrate that the inhibition of mitochondrial respiration positively influences sperm DNA integrity, most likely because of the depletion of intracellular ROS formation. CONCLUSION: Collectively, the data presented in this work reveals that impairment of early embryo development may result from the accumulation of sperm DNA damage caused by mitochondrial-derived ROS.

Breviscapine alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in diabetes rats

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of breviscapine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) in diabetes rats. Methods: Forty rats were divided into control, diabetes, MIRI of diabetes, and treatment groups. The MIRI of diabetes model was established in the latter two groups. Then, the treatment group was treated with 100 mg/kg breviscapine by intraperitoneal injection for 14 consecutive days. Results: After treatment, compared with MIRI of diabetes group, in treatment group the serum fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and glycosylated hemoglobin levels decreased, the serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased, the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level increased, the heart rate decreased, the mean arterial pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, and fractional shortening increased, the serum cardiac troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB levels decreased, the myocardial tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 levels decreased, the myocardial superoxide dismutase level increased, and the myocardial malondialdehyde level decreased (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: For treating MIRI of diabetes in rats, the breviscapine can reduce the blood glucose and lipid levels, improve the cardiac function, reduce the myocardial injury, and decrease the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, thus exerting the alleviating effect.

Acute phase reactions in Daboia siamensis venom and fraction-induced acute kidney injury: the role of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways in in vivo rabbit and ex vivo rabbit kidney models

Abstract Background: This study examines the direct nephrotoxic effects of Daboia siamensis venom (RVV) and venom fractions in in vivo and isolated perfused kidneys (IPK) to understand the role of inflammation pathways and susceptibility to oxidative stress in venom or fraction-induced acute renal failure. Methods: We administered RVV and its venom fractions (PLA2, MP, LAAO, and PDE) to rabbits in vivo and in the IPK model. We measured oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, GSH, and MDA) in kidney tissue, as well as inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10), MDA and GSH levels in plasma and urine. We also calculated fractional excretion (FE) for pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress biomarkers, including the ratios of pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines in urine after envenomation. Results: In both kidney models, significant increases in MDA, SOD, CAT, and GSH levels were observed in kidney tissues, along with elevated concentrations of MDA and GSH in plasma and urine after injecting RVV and venom fractions. Moreover, RVV injections led to progressive increases in FEMDA and decreases in FEGSH. The concentrations of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in plasma increased in vivo, as well as in the urine of the IPK model, but not for IL-1β in both plasma and urine after RVV administrations. Urinary fractional excretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 tended to decrease in vivo but showed elevated levels in the IPK model. A single RVV injection in vivo disrupted the balance of urinary cytokines, significantly reducing either the TNF-α/IL-10 ratio or the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio. Conclusion: RVV induces renal tubular toxicity by increasing oxidative stress production and elevating inflammatory cytokines in urine. During the acute phase of acute kidney injury, the balance of urine cytokines shifts toward anti-inflammatory dominance within the first two hours post-RVV and venom fractions.

Did diet compliance and remission reduce oxidative stress in celiac patients?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine the effect of remission status on thiol-disulfide homeostasis in celiac patients and thus to indirectly determine the effect of oxidative stress and inflammation caused by non-compliance with the diet. METHODS: Between February 2019 and December 2021, 117 patients diagnosed with celiac disease were included in this prospective randomized and controlled study. In addition to routine tests of celiac patients, thiol and disulfide measurements were made from the blood both at the beginning of the study and at the end of the first year. RESULTS: While 52 of the patients (44.4%) were in remission, 65 patients (55.6%) were not. There was an evident increase in native thiol levels of the patients who were initially not in remission but went into at the end of the first year (347.4±46.7 μmol/L vs. 365.3±44.0 μmol/L; p=0.001). Mean plasma disulfide levels of patients with celiac going into remission became reduced in the first year from the level of 14.5±5.1 μmol/L down to 8.9±4.2 μmol/L (p<0.001). In celiac patients who entered remission, disulfide and anti-tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A levels decreased in a correlation (r=0.526; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Not being in remission in celiac disease leads to increased oxidative stress, and thiol-disulfide homeostasis is an indirect indicator of this. Additionally, providing remission in celiac patients reduces oxidative stress.

Factores de estrés y su asociación con los biomarcadores del síndrome metabólico

Introducción: el síndrome metabólico es considerado como un conjunto de factores de riesgo para desarrollar enfermedades cardiovasculares y diabéticas, en adición a esto, los biomarcadores determinan un diagnóstico del síndrome metabólico. Existen diversos factores que pueden causar el síndrome metabólico, uno de ellos, el estrés, que se concibe como la reacción de un individuo ante eventos o situaciones que exceden los mecanismos de adaptación. Objetivos: explorar la literatura científica existente para identificar y sintetizar los diferentes factores de estrés fisiológico que se han investigado en relación con el síndrome metabólico, y evaluar críticamente la evidencia disponible sobre la asociación entre los factores de estrés identificados y los biomarcadores específicos del síndrome metabólico. Además, realizar un análisis de la calidad metodológica de los estudios incluidos en la revisión para evaluar la validez y la fiabilidad de los resultados obtenidos. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó una revisión sistemática usando bases de datos como PubMed, Redalyc, SciELO y Google Scholar, en donde se incluyeron investigaciones que busquen establecer una relación entre el estrés y los biomarcadores del síndrome metabólico en publicaciones desde enero del 2017 a noviembre del 2022. Se tomaron en cuenta criterios de la Declaración PRISMA. Resultados: se incluyeron un total de 32 artículos, en donde se pudo observar que los biomarcadores del estrés oxidativo que influyen en el padecimiento del síndrome metabólico son diversos y pueden afectar de múltiples formas al ser humano, generando enfermedades como la diabetes, enfermedades cardiovasculares, pulmonares y hasta neuropsicológicas. Conclusiones: los biomarcadores del estrés oxidativo influyen de manera directa en el padecimiento de síndrome metabólico y son identificados como un factor determinante para diagnosticar enfermedades desencadenantes de este síndrome.

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is considered as a set of risks factors for developing cardiovascular and diabetic diseases. Additionally, biomarkers determine a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Several of them can cause metabolic syndrome, and one of them, stress, is conceived as an individual's reaction to events or situations that exceed adaptation mechanisms. Materials and methods: A systematic review was carried out using database such as PubMed, Redalyc, Scielo and Google Scholar, which included research that relates oxidative stress to biomarkers of metabolic syndrome in publications from January 2017 to November 2022. The criteria considered were those of the PRISMA Declaration. Results: A total of 32 articles were included, and it was possible to observe that the biomarkers of oxidative stress that influence the condition of metabolic syndrome are diverse and can affect humans in multiple ways, generating diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and even neuropsychological. Conclusions: Oxidative stress biomarkers have a direct influence on suffering from metabolic syndrome and are identified as a determining factor in diagnosing diseases that trigger this syndrome.

Columbianadin ameliorates experimental acute reflux esophagitis in rats via suppression of NF-κB pathway

Purpose: Reflux esophagitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the esophagus, resulting from the backflow of stomach acid and other gastric contents into the esophagus. Columbianadin is a coumarin derivative that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In this study, we tried to scrutinize the protective effect of Columbianadin against acute reflux esophagitis in rats. Methods: RAW 264.7 cells were utilized to assess cell viability and measure the production of inflammatory parameters. The rats received anesthesia, and reflux esophagitis was induced via ligation of pylorus and fore stomach and corpus junction. Rats received the oral administration of Columbianadin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) and omeprazole (20 mg/kg). The gastric secretion volume, acidity, and pH were measured. Additionally, the levels of oxidative stress parameters, cytokines, and inflammatory markers were determined. At the end of the study, mRNA expression was assessed. Results: Columbianadin remarkably suppressed the cell viability and production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and prostaglandin (PGE2). Columbianadin treatment remarkably suppressed the secretion of gastric volume, total acidity and enhanced the pH level in the stomach. Columbianadin remarkably altered the level of hydrogen peroxidase, free iron, calcium, and plasma scavenging activity, sulfhydryl group; oxidative stress parameters like malonaldehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase; inflammatory cytokines viz., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß, IL-10, IL-17, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; inflammatory parameters including PGE2, iNOS, COX-2, and nuclear kappa B factor (NF-κB). Columbianadin remarkably (P < 0.001) suppressed the mRNA expression TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. Conclusions: Columbianadin demonstrated a protective effect against acute reflux esophagitis via NF-κB pathway.

XinJiaCongRongTuSiZiWan protects triptolide-induced rats from oxidative stress injury via mitophagy mediated PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway

Purpose: XinJiaCongRongTuSiZiWan (XJCRTSZW) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound for invigorating the kidney, nourishing blood, and promoting blood circulation. This study aimed to explore the effect of XJCRTSZW on triptolide (TP)-induced oxidative stress injury. Methods: Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats and human ovarian granulosa cell lines were treated with TP and XJCRTSZW. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, CCK-8, JC-1 staining, transmission electron microscopy, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting were performed in this study. Results: XJCRTSZW treatment observably ameliorated the TP-induced pathological symptoms. Furthermore, XJCRTSZW treatment observably enhanced the TP-induced reduction of estradiol, anti-Mullerian hormone, progesterone, superoxide dismutase, ATP content, mitochondrial membrane potential, p62, and Hsp60 mRNA, and protein levels in vivo and in vitro (p < 0.05). However, TP-induced elevation of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone concentrations, malondialdehyde levels, reactive oxygen species levels, apoptosis rate, mitophagy, and the mRNA and protein expressions of LC3-II/LC3-I, PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1), and Parkin were decreased (p < 0.05). In addition, XJCRTSZW treatment markedly increased cell viability in vitro (p < 0.05). Conclusions: XJCRTSZW protects TP-induced rats from oxidative stress injury via the mitophagy-mediated PINK1/Parkin pathway.

Eucommia granules activate Wnt/ß-catenin pathway, and improve oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial injury in preeclampsia rats

Purpose: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related complication. Eucommia is effective in the treatment of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, but the specific effects and possible mechanisms of Eucommia granules (EG) in PE remain unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and possible mechanisms of EG in PE rats. Methods: Pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n = 6): the control group, the model group, the low-dose group, the medium-dose group, and the high-dose group of EG. The PE model was established by subcutaneous injection of levonitroarginine methyl ester. Saline was given to the blank and model groups, and the Eucommia granules were given by gavage to the remaining groups. Blood pressure and urinary protein were detected. The body length and weight of the pups and the weight of the placenta were recorded. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), placental growth factor (PIGF), and soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sFIt-1) were measured in the placenta. Pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Wnt/ß-catenin pathway-related protein expression was detected using Western blot. Results: Compared with the model group, the PE rats treated with EG had lower blood pressure and urinary protein. The length and weight of the pups and placental weight were increased. Inflammation and necrosis in the placental tissue was improved. SOD level increased, MDA content and sFIt-1/PIGF ratio decreased, and Wnt/ß-catenin pathway-related protein expression level increased. Moreover, the results of EG on PE rats increased with higher doses of EG. Conclusions: EG may activate the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway and inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular endothelial injury in PE rats, thereby improving the perinatal prognosis of preeclamptic rats. EG may inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular endothelial injury through activation of the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway in preeclampsia rats, thereby improving perinatal outcomes in PE rats.