Use of antioxidants and time of cold storage: effects over viability parameters and enzymatic levels in semen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792) / Uso de antioxidantes e tempo de armazenamento a frio: efeitos sobre parâmetros de viabilidade e níveis enzimáticos no sêmen da truta arco-íris (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum, 1792)

The cold storage of milt implies potentials alterations in its quality because the storage generates as main process, free radicals that produce spermatozoa membrane lipids damage with the consequent motility and fertilising capacity disruptions. To decrease the damage generated by free radicals the cells have antioxidant defences (proteins, enzymes, and low molecular weight substances). The objective of the present study evaluated the time storage effect and different antioxidants prepared in spermatic diluents on sperm viability of O. mykiss milt stored at 4°C. The two-way ANOVA denoted that the time storage and antioxidant influence have significant effects separated or combined on viability parameters (sperm motility and viability, proteins concentrations and superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma). In contrast, only the storage time affected the fertilising capacity and catalase enzymatic activity in seminal plasma. The resulting analysis can conclude that the antioxidant presence improves the viability of cold stored milt, especially the transport conditions and the antioxidants allow the fecundity despite motility decrease.

O armazenamento a frio de leite implica potenciais alterações em sua qualidade, pois gera como processo principal radicais livres que provocam danos aos lipídios da membrana dos espermatozoides, com as consequentes alterações na motilidade e na capacidade de fertilização. Para diminuir os danos causados pelos radicais livres, as células têm defesas antioxidantes (proteínas, enzimas e substâncias de baixo peso molecular). O presente estudo avaliou o efeito do tempo de armazenamento e diferentes antioxidantes preparados em diluentes espermáticos no armazenamento de viabilidade de O. mykiss milt a 4°C. A ANOVA de duas vias denotou que o armazenamento no tempo e a influência antioxidante têm efeitos significativos separados ou combinados nos parâmetros de viabilidade (motilidade espermática, viabilidade espermática, concentrações de proteínas e atividade enzimática da superóxido dismutase no plasma seminal), enquanto apenas o tempo de armazenamento afetou a capacidade de fertilização e atividade enzimática da catalase no plasma seminal. A análise resultante pode concluir que a presença de antioxidante melhora a viabilidade do leite frio, especialmente as condições de transporte, e os antioxidantes permitem a fecundidade apesar da diminuição da motilidade.

Estudo da morfologia e status oxidativo em rim de ratos com nefropatia isquêmica após tratamento com células-tronco mesenquimais de tecido adiposo / Study of morphology and oxidative status in kidney of rats with ischemic nephropathy after treatment with adipose tissue mesenchymal stem cells

A nefropatia isquêmica é uma doença renal crônica provocada pela redução do fluxo sanguíneo renal que pode progredir para a doença renal terminal, cujo tratamentos disponíveis se baseiam em terapias substitutivas da função renal, como diálise ou transplante renal. No entanto, devido ao alto custo dos tratamentos e a carência de órgãos, se faz necessária a busca por novas terapias, como as células-tronco (CT). Apesar do potencial terapêutico das CT em doenças crônicas, não está claro se essas células mantêm seus efeitos benéficos em órgãos lesionados por tempo prolongado. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar os efeitos precoces e tardios do tratamento com células-tronco adiposas (CTA) sobre a morfologia e o status oxidativo em rins de ratos com nefropatia isquêmica. A isquemia renal foi induzida pelo modelo 2rins-1clip (2R1C) e, depois de um mês da clipagem da artéria renal, foram injetadas 106 células-tronco na região subscapsular do rim afetado. Após 15 e 30 dias da injeção das CTA, a morfologia renal foi verificada por meio da análise macroscópica, microscópica e ultraestrutural. Além disso, o status oxidativo foi avaliado no tecido renal através da mensuração da atividade das enzimas antioxidantes catalase e glutationa peroxidase; e de marcadores biológicos de dano oxidativo, como proteínas carboniladas, 3-Nitrotirosina e 4-Hidroxinonenal. Por imunoperoxidase foi possível localizar as células-tronco adiposas GFP+ foram rastreadas e encontradas tanto 15 dias, quanto 30 dias após a injeção na região subcapsular. A restauração da arquitetura renal foi evidenciada 15d após o uso das células, onde detectamos redução na deposição de fibras colágenas no parênquima renal, o que não foi observado 30d após o uso das células. Os resultados também foram confirmados através da análise da ultraestrutura renal que mostraram restauração da arquitetura renal no grupo de 15d, não evidenciada no grupo de 30d. Quanto a análise do status oxidativo, somente os animais com nefropatia isquêmica mais prolongada apresentaram estresse oxidativo com redução da atividade da enzima antioxidante catalase no tecido renal. Além disso, foi observado dano proteico e lipídico, sem melhora dessa condição nos animais 30d após o tratamento com as células-tronco. No modelo de nefropatia isquêmica avaliado, o tratamento com CTA mostrou benefícios na morfologia renal a curto prazo, mas não tardiamente, apesar da permanência dessas células no tecido. Acreditamos que o estresse oxidativo, evidenciado somente no tecido renal com isquemia mais prolongada, possa ter dificultado a ação das células-tronco, contribuindo para tais achados. Esses resultados abrem perspectivas para o aprofundamento do estudo quanto à caracterização dos mecanimos de ação das CTA nas respostas anti-fibrogênicas, assim como o estabelecimento do número, frequência, vias de administração e melhor momento para uso dessas células no tratamento de doenças renais crônicas.

Ischemic nephropathy is a chronic kidney disease caused by reduced kidney blood flow that can progress to end stage kidney disease, whose available treatments are based on kidney function replacement therapies, such as dialysis or kidney transplantation. However, due to the high cost of treatments and the lack of organs, it is necessary to search for new therapies, such as stem cells (SC). Despite the therapeutic potential of SC in chronic diseases, it is unclear whether these cells maintain their beneficial effects on injured organs for a long time. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early and late effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) treatment on the morphology and oxidative status in kidneys of rats with ischemic nephropathy. Renal ischemia was induced by the 2kidneys-1clip (2K1C) model and, after a month of clipping the renal artery, 106 stem cells were injected into the subscapsular region of the affected kidney. After 15 and 30 days of ADSC injection, renal morphology was verified by macroscopic, microscopic, and ultrastructural analysis. In addition, oxidative status was assessed in renal tissue by measuring the activity of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase; and biological markers of oxidative damage, such as carbonylated proteins, 3-nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxynonenal. By immunoperoxidase, it was possible to locate GFP + adipose-derived stem cells that were tracked and found both 15 days and 30 days after injection in the subcapsular region. The restoration of the renal architecture was evidenced 15d after the use of the cells, where we detected a reduction in the deposition of collagen fibers in the renal parenchyma, which was not observed 30d after the use of the cells. The results were also confirmed by analyzing the renal ultrastructure, which showed restoration of the renal architecture in the 15d group, not evidenced in the 30d group. Regarding the analysis of oxidative status, only animals with more prolonged ischemic nephropathy presented oxidative stress with reduced activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase in renal tissue. In addition, protein and lipid damage was observed, with no improvement in this condition in the animals 30d after treatment with stem cells. In the evaluated ischemic nephropathy model, treatment with ADSC showed benefits in renal morphology in the short term, but not late, despite the permanence of these cells in the tissue. We believe that oxidative stress, evidenced only in renal tissue with more prolonged ischemia, may have hindered the action of stem cells, contributing to such findings. These results open perspectives for further study on the characterization of ADSC mechanisms of action in anti-fibrogenic responses, as well as the establishment of the number, frequency, routes of administration and the best time to use these cells in the treatment of chronic kidney diseases.

Biochemical changes in cultivars of sweet oranges infected with citrus tristeza virus / Mudanças bioquímicas em vários cultivares de laranjas doces infectadas com o vírus citrus tristeza

Abstract Citrus fruit production occupies a place of considerable importance in the economy of the world including Pakistan. Tristeza disease caused by Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV) exists in various forms that may or may not cause symptoms in the plants. The bioactive compounds and antioxidants are naturally present in plants and provide a defense mechanism that is generally accelerated in response to a stress. The objective of the present study was to target and analyze the citrus plants that were CTV positive to observe the changes in the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants of citrus (Sweet Oranges only). It was observed that in response to CTV infection, both the non-enzymatic antioxidants (total flavonoid, ascorbic acid, phenolic acid) and enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase) activities showed an increasing trend overall. The profiling of antioxidants in response to a viral infection may help in the discovery of new biomarkers that can be used as a monitoring tool in disease management.

Resumo As frutas cítricas ocupam um lugar de considerável importância na economia do Paquistão, assim como o resto do mundo. A doença da tristeza causada pelo Vírus da Tristeza dos Citros (CTV) existe em várias formas que podem ou não apresentar sintomas nas plantas. Os compostos bioativos e antioxidantes estão naturalmente presentes nas plantas e fornecem um mecanismo de defesa que é geralmente acelerado em resposta a um estresse. O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar as alterações causadas pelo CTV nos antioxidantes enzimáticos e não enzimáticos de laranjas doces. Foi observado que, em resposta ao ataque de CTV, os antioxidantes não enzimáticos como flavonoides totais, ácido ascórbico, ácido fenólico e antioxidantes enzimáticos, como as atividades de catalase, superóxido dismutase e peroxidase, geralmente mostram uma tendência crescente. O perfil de antioxidantes em resposta a um ataque viral pode ajudar na descoberta de novos biomarcadores que podem ser usados ​​como uma ferramenta de monitoramento no gerenciamento de doenças.

Effect of Arrabidaea chica extract against chemically induced breast cancer in animal model

Abstract Purpose: To examine the effects of Arrabidaa chica (Bignoniacea) extract, a native plant of the Amazon known as crajiru, on a 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer model in Wistar rats. Methods: We compared the response of breast cancer to the oral administration of A. chica extract (ACE) for 16 weeks, associated or not with vincristine. Groups: normal control; DMBA (50mg/kg v.o,) without treatment; DMBA+ACE (300 mg/kg); DMBA+vincristine. 500μg/kg injected i.p; DMBA+ACE+Vincristine 250μg/kg i.p. Imaging by microPET and fluorescence, biochemistry, oxidative stress, hematology and histopathology were used to validate the treatments. Results: All animals survived. A gradual weight gain in all groups was observed, with no significant difference (p>0.05). The oral administration of ACE and ACE+vincristine 50% significantly reduced breast tumors incidence examined with PET-18FDG and fluorescence (p<0.001). Significant reduction of serum transaminases, oxidative stress and hematological toxicity were observed in these groups. Antioxidant enzyme levels in breast tissue were significantly higher compared to the DMBA and DMBA+vincristine groups. Conclusion: These results demonstrate for the first time that ACE positively influences the treatment of DMBA-induced breast cancer in animal model, inducing a reduction in oxidative stress and chemotherapy toxicity, meaning that ACE may have clinical implication in further studies.

The anticonvulsant effects of Ducrosia anethifolia (Boiss) essential oil are produced by its main component alpha-pinene in rats / Os efeitos anticonvulsivantes do óleo essencial de Ducrosia anethifolia (Boiss) são realizados pelo seu principal componente alfa-pineno em ratos

ABSTRACT Ducrosia anethifolia has been recommended as a remedy for neurological disorders. However, the anticonvulsant effects of D. anethifolia essential oil (DAEO) and its major constituent α-pinene have not yet been clarified. Methods: A rat model of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced convulsions was used. Oxidant and antioxidant parameters were assayed in the temporal lobe. Results: The data showed that DAEO (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) and α-pinene (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg i.p.) delayed the initiation time, and reduced the duration of myoclonic and tonic-clonic seizures following PTZ injection. The PTZ produced oxidative stress so that malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels were increased and catalase and peroxidase activity decreased. Pretreatment with DAEO and α-pinene significantly inhibited the above-mentioned enzymatic changes in PTZ-treated animals. Conclusion: The results suggest that α-pinene, at teast in part, was responsible for the induction of the anticonvulsant and antioxidant effects of DAEO in rats.

RESUMO A Ducrosia anethifolia tem sido recomendada como remédio para os distúrbios neurológicos. No entanto, os efeitos anticonvulsivantes do óleo essencial de Ducrosia anethifolia (DAEO) e do seu principal constituinte atfa-pineno (α-pineno) ainda não foram clarificados. Métodos: Foi utilizado um modelo de rato de convulsões induzidas por pentilenotetrazol (PTZ). Os parâmetros oxidante e antioxidante foram ensaiados no lobo temporal do cérebro. Resultados: Os dados mostraram que DAEO (50, 100 e 200 mg / kg, i.p.) e α-pineno (0,2 e 0,4 mg / kg i.p.) retardaram o tempo de iniciação e reduziram a duração das crises mioclônicas e tônico-clônicas após a injeção de PTZ. O PTZ produziu estresse oxidativo, de modo que os níveis de malondialdeído (MDA) e de peróxido de hidrogênio aumentaram e a atividade da catalase e da peroxidase diminuiu. O pré-tratamento com DAEO e α-pineno inibiu significativamente as alterações enzimáticas mencionadas em animais tratados com PTZ. Conclusão: O resultado sugere que α-pineno, peto menos em parte, é responsável peta indução dos efeitos anticonvulsivantes e antioxidantes da DAEO em ratos.

The Effects of Trimetazidine on QT-interval Prolongation and Cardiac Hypertrophy in Diabetic Rats / Os Efeitos da Trimetazidina no Prolongamento do Intervalo QT e na Hipertrofia Cardíaca em Ratos Diabéticos

Abstract Background: Trimetazidine (TMZ) is an anti-ischemic drug. In spite of its protective effects on cardiovascular system, there is no scientific study on the usefulness of TMZ treatment for prolonged QT interval and cardiac hypertrophy induced by diabetes. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of TMZ on QT interval prolongation and cardiac hypertrophy in the diabetic rats. Methods: Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 8) by simple random sampling method. Control (C), diabetic (D), and diabetic administrated with TMZ at 10 mg/kg (T10). TMZ was administrated for 8 weeks. The echocardiogram was recorded before isolating the hearts and transfer to a Langendorff apparatus. Hemodynamic parameters, QT and corrected QT interval (QTc) intervals, heart rate and antioxidant enzymes were measured. The hypertrophy index was calculated. The results were evaluated by one-way ANOVA and paired t-test using SPSS (version 16) and p < 0.05 was regarded as significant. Results: The diabetic rats significantly indicated increased hypertrophy, QT and QTc intervals and decreased Left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), Left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), rate pressure product (RPP), Max dp/dt, and min dp/dt (±dp/dt max), heart rate, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase in the heart. Treatment with TMZ in the diabetic animals was significantly improved these parameters in comparison to the untreated diabetic group. Conclusions: TMZ improves QTc interval prolongation and cardiac hypertrophy in diabetes.

Resumo Fundamento: A trimetazidina (TMZ) é uma droga anti-isquêmica. Apesar de seus efeitos protetores sobre o sistema cardiovascular, não há estudos científicos sobre a utilidade do tratamento com TMZ para o intervalo QT prolongado e a hipertrofia cardíaca induzida pelo diabetes. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da TMZ no prolongamento do intervalo QT e na hipertrofia cardíaca em ratos diabéticos. Métodos: Vinte e quatro ratos machos Sprague-Dawley (200-250 g) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em três grupos (n = 8) pelo método de amostragem aleatória simples. Controle (C), diabético (D) e diabético administrado com TMZ a 10 mg/kg (T10). A TMZ foi administrada por 8 semanas. O ecocardiograma foi registrado antes de isolar os corações e transferir para um aparelho de Langendorff. Foram medidos os parâmetros hemodinâmicos, intervalo QT e intervalo QT corrigido (QTc), frequência cardíaca e enzimas antioxidantes. O índice de hipertrofia foi calculado. Os resultados foram avaliados pelo one-way ANOVA e pelo teste t pareado pelo SPSS (versão 16) e p < 0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: Os ratos diabéticos indicaram hipertrofia aumentada, intervalos QT e QTc e diminuição da pressão sistólica no ventrículo esquerdo (PSVE), pressão desenvolvida no ventrículo esquerdo (PDVE), duplo produto (DP), Max dp/dt e min dp/dt (± dp/dt max), frequência cardíaca, superóxido dismutase (SOD), glutationa peroxidase (GPx) e catalase no coração. O tratamento com TMZ nos animais diabéticos melhorou significativamente esses parâmetros em comparação com o grupo diabético não tratado. Conclusões: A TMZ melhora o prolongamento do intervalo QTc e a hipertrofia cardíaca no diabetes.

Melatonin effects on pulmonary tissue in the experimental model of Hepatopulmonary Syndrome / Efeitos da melatonina sobre o tecido pulmonar no modelo experimental de Síndrome Hepatopulmonar

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the pulmonary alterations of animals with Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS) submitted to Biliary Duct Ligature (BDL), as well as the antioxidant effect of Melatonin (MEL). Methods: Sixteen male Wistar rats, divided into four Sham groups: BDL group, Sham + MEL group and BDL + MEL. The pulmonary and hepatic histology, lipoperoxidation and antioxidant activity of lung tissue, alveolar-arterial O2 difference and lung / body weight ratio (%) were evaluated. Results: When comparing the groups, could be observed an increase of vasodilation and pulmonary fibrosis in the BDL group and the reduction of this in relation to the BDL + MEL group. It was also observed significant changes in the activity of catalase, ApCO2, ApO2 in the LBD group when compared to the other groups. Conclusion: The use of MEL has been shown to be effective in reducing vasodilation, fibrosis levels and oxidative stress as well as gas exchange in an experimental HPS model.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as alterações pulmonares de animais com Síndrome Hepatopulmonar (SHP), submetidos à ligadura de ducto biliar (LDB), bem como o efeito antioxidante da Melatonina (MEL). Métodos: Dezesseis ratos machos da espécie Wistar, divididos em quatro grupos: Sham, Grupo LDB, Grupo Sham + MEL e LDB + MEL. Foram avaliadas a histologia pulmonar e hepática, a lipoperoxidação e atividade antioxidante do tecido pulmonar, diferença álveolo-arterial de O2 e relação peso pulmonar/peso corporal (%). Resultados: Quando comparados os grupos, observamos um aumento da vasodilatação e fibrose pulmonar no grupo LDB e a redução deste em relação ao grupo LDB+MEL. Observamos ainda alterações significativas na atividade da catalase, PaCO2, PaO2 no grupo LBD quando comparado aos demais grupos. Conclusões: A utilização da MEL demonstrou-se eficaz na redução da vasodilatação, níveis de fibrose e estresse oxidativo assim como na troca gasosa em modelo experimental de SHP.

Alprostadil attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by promoting antioxidant activity and eNOS activation in rats

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effect of alprostadil on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in rats. Methods: Rats were subjected to myocardial ischemia for 30 min followed by 24h reperfusion. Alprostadil (4 or 8 μg/kg) was intravenously administered at the time of reperfusion and myocardial infarct size, levels of troponin T, and the activity of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the serum were measured. Antioxidative parameters, nitric oxide (NO) content and phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase 3 (p-eNOS) expression in the left ventricles were also measured. Histopathological examinations of the left ventricles were also performed. Results: Alprostadil treatment significantly reduced myocardial infarct size, serum troponin T levels, and CK-MB and LDH activity (P<0.05). Furthermore, treatment with alprostadil significantly decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P<0.05) and markedly reduced myonecrosis, edema and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities (P<0.05), NO level (P<0.01) and p-eNOS (P<0.05) were significantly increased in rats treated with alprostadil compared with control rats. Conclusion: These results indicate that alprostadil protects against myocardial I/R injury and that these protective effects are achieved, at least in part, via the promotion of antioxidant activity and activation of eNOS.

Assessment of oxidative damage and enzymatic antioxidant system activity on the umbilical cord blood and saliva from preterm newborns with risk factors for early-onset neonatal sepsis

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: To determine the concentration of the Lipid Peroxidation Marker: Malondialdehyde (MDA), and Antioxidant Markers: Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX), Catalase (CAL) in umbilical cord blood and in unstimulated saliva in the first 24 and 48 hours of life in the PTNB of mothers with and without risk factors for early-onset neonatal sepsis. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with the signing of informed consent by the pregnant women and application of a standard questionnaire classifying the PTNB in Group 1 or 2. RESULTS: Twenty-one PTNB were studied. Regarding gender, birth weight, need for oxygen, use of phototherapy, diagnosis of assumed sepsis, presence of fetal distress, number of pregnancies, type of delivery, use of corticosteroids, premature rupture of membranes, maternal fever, chorioamnionitis, APGAR at the 5th and 10th minute of life. Statistical analysis was performed with the Mann-Whitney test (p = 0.019) on the GPX variable of umbilical cord blood in the group of mothers with risk factors for early-onset neonatal sepsis. There was no statistical difference in the MDA, SOD, and CAT variables of the group with risk factors and in any variable of the group without risk factors. CONCLUSION: There was an increase of the GPX concentration in the blood from the umbilical vein in the group with risk factors for early-onset neonatal sepsis. There was no statistical significance in the comparison of saliva and umbilical cord blood. There was no statistically significant difference in MDA, SOD, CAT.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Determinar a concentração do marcador de peroxidação lipídica: Malondialdeído (MDA) e dos marcadores antioxidantes: Superóxido Dismutase (SOD), Glutationa Peroxidase (GPX), Catalase (CAL) no sangue do cordão umbilical e na saliva não estimulada nas primeiras 24 e 48 horas de vida nos RNPT de mães com e sem fatores de risco para sepse neonatal precoce. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal com a assinatura do termo de consentimento livre esclarecido pela gestante e aplicação de um questionário padrão classificando o RNPT no Grupo 1 ou 2. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 21 RNPT. Quanto ao gênero, peso ao nascimento, necessidade de oxigênio, uso de fototerapia, diagnóstico de sepse presumida, presença de sofrimento fetal, número de gestações, tipo de parto, uso de corticoide, rotura prematura de membranas, a presença de febre materna, a presença de corioamnionite, Apgar no 50 e 100 minuto de vida, a análise estatística foi feita com o teste de Mann-Whitney (p=0,019) na váriável GPX do sangue do cordão umbilical no grupo das mães com fatores de risco para sepse neonatal precoce. Não houve diferença estatística nas outras variáveis MDA, SOD, CAT do grupo com fatores de risco e em nenhuma variável do grupo sem fatores de risco. CONCLUSÃO: O aumento de duas vezes a concentração da GPX no sangue da veia umbilical dos RNPT do grupo das mães com fatores de risco para sepse neonatal precoce. Sem significância estatística na comparação entre a saliva e o sangue do cordão umbilical. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante nas variáveis MDA, SOD e CAT.

Antioxidant extract counteracts the effects of aging on cortical spreading depression and oxidative stress in the brain cortex

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effects of Murici extract on the brain excitability-dependent phenomenon known as cortical spreading depression (CSD) and on brain oxidative stress. Methods: Adult and aged Wistar rats were supplemented with murici extract (150 mg/kg/day or 300 mg/kg/day) by gavage for fifteen days. Afterwards, the animals were submitted to a CSD electrophysiological recording and to brain oxidative stress evaluation. Results: Our results showed that aging decreased CSD propagation velocity, catalase activity and glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG) in the brain cortex of the rats, and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The highest dose (300 mg/kg/day) of murici extract accelerated CSD, whereas the lowest (150mg/kg/day) decelerated, in both adult and aged animals. In contrast, aged animals supplemented with murici extract in both doses presented low MDA levels and high GSG/GSSG ratio in comparison to the control-aged animals. Conclusion: Murici extract supplementation seems to revert detrimental effects in aged brains and could be considered as a strategy in the treatment of pathologies related to aging and cortical spreading depression.

The therapeutic effects of curcumin and capsaicin against cyclophosphamide side effects on the uterus in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the impact of systemic cyclophosphamide treatment on the rat uterus and investigate the potential therapeutic effects of natural antioxidant preparations curcumin and capsaicin against cyclophosphamide side effects. Methods: A 40 healthy adult female Wistar albino rats were used in this study. Rats were randomly divided into four groups to determine the effects of curcumin and capsaicin against Cyclophosphamide side effects on the uterus (n=10 in each group); Group 1 was the control group (sham-operated), Group 2 was the cyclophosphamide group, Group 3 was the cyclophosphamide + curcumin (100mg/kg) group, and Group 4 was the cyclophosphamide + capsaicin (0.5 mg/kg) group. Results: Increased tissue oxidative stress and histological damage in the rat uterus were demonstrated due to the treatment of systemic cyclophosphamide chemotherapy alone. The level of tissue oxidant and antioxidant markers and histopathological changes were improved by the treatment of curcumin and capsaicin. Conclusion: Cytotoxic effects of natural alkylating chemotherapeutic agents like cyclophosphamide on the uterus can be prevented by curcumin and capsaicin.

Effect of melatonin on antioxidant capacity, inflammation and apoptotic cell death in lung tissue of diabetic rats

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effects of melatonin on antioxidant capacity, inflammation and apoptotic cell death (through expression of cleaved-caspase 3) in lung tissue samples of diabetic rats. Methods: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups. Group 1 (control group) was made up of healthy rats. Group 2 (diabetes group) received streptozotocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 5 days.Group 3 (diabetes plus melatonin group) received streptozotocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 5 days and then they received melatonin at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day between 28thand 35thdays of the study. Results: Tissue MDA and MPO levels were found to be significantly higher in diabetes group compared to control group (p<0.05) whilst administration of melatonin was found to significantly lower this increase down to normal levels (p<0.05). Bronchus associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) was more severe in diabetics whereas administration of melatonin alleviated this hyperplasia. Cleaved caspase 3 activity was severe in hyperplastic BALT in diabetic rats however in lowered down to moderate level when melatonin was administered. Conclusion: The melatonin caused an increase in antioxidant capacity and decreased the expression of cleaved-caspase 3.

Characterization of oxidative stress biomarkers in a freshwater anomuran crab / Caracterização de biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo em caranguejos anomuros de água doce

Abstract In general, environmental responses at level of populations or communities are preceded by alterations at lower biological levels which can be efficiently detected by the analysis of biomarkers. We analyzed the oxidative biomarkers TBARS and Catalase in Aegla singularis, a freshwater crustacean highly sensitive to environmental changes. The objective was to address if are differences in these biomarkers related to the gender as well if they are influenced by seasonal or water physicochemical variables. The results showed differences in biomarkers profile related to the gender. In female crabs were not sensitive to seasonal variations throughout the study period. However, in males the biomarkers evaluated were higher in the winter as compared to remaining seasons and showed tendency of negative correlation with water temperature and pH. This study highlights that gender, seasonal variations and physicochemical variables can influence oxidative stress biomarkers in A. singularis. Female crabs probably are better suited as a model for biomarker application in environmental studies, because their insensibility to seasonal variations can facilitate the observations of responses related specifically to environmental disturbances.

Resumo Em geral, as respostas ambientais ao nível de populações ou comunidades são precedidas pelas alterações nos níveis biológicos inferiores que podem ser eficientemente detectados pela análise de biomarcadores. Neste trabalho, foram analisados os biomarcadores oxidativos TBARS e Catalase em Aegla singularis, um crustáceo de água doce altamente sensível às mudanças ambientais. O objetivo foi investigar se há diferenças nestes biomarcadores relacionados com o gênero, bem como se eles são influenciados por parâmetros sazonais ou físico-químicos. Os resultados mostraram diferenças no perfil de biomarcadores relacionados com o gênero. Caranguejos fêmeas não foram sensíveis a variações sazonais ao longo do período de estudo. Nos machos, os biomarcadores avaliadas apresentaram níveis mais altos no inverno, em comparação com as demais estações e mostraram uma tendência de correlação negativa com a temperatura e pH da água. Este estudo destaca que o sexo, variações sazonais e variáveis físico-químicas podem influenciar os biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo em A. singularis. As fêmeas de A. singularis provavelmente são mais adequadas como um modelo para aplicação destes biomarcadores em estudos ambientais, uma vez que sua insensibilidade às variações sazonais podem facilitar as observações das respostas relacionadas especificamente com perturbações ambientais.

Thymoquinone reverses learning and memory impairments and brain tissue oxidative damage in hypothyroid juvenile rats / Timoquinona protegeu contra deficiências de aprendizagem e memória e danos nos tecidos cerebrais em ratos hipotireoidais juvenis

ABSTRACT In this study, the effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced memory impairment was investigated in juvenile rats. The rats were grouped into control, Hypo, Hypo-TQ5 and Hypo-TQ10. Propylthiouracil increased latency time in the Morris water maze test and decreased delay in entering the dark compartment in the passive avoidance test. Both 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg doses of TQ decreased latency time in the Morris water maze test and increased delay in entering the dark compartment in a passive avoidance test. The PTU also increased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide metabolites in the brain while reduced the thiol content and superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and serum T4 level. Both doses of TQ decreased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide metabolites in the brain while enhanced the thiol content and superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and serum T4 level. The results of the present study showed that TQ protected against PTU-induced memory impairments in rats.

RESUMO Neste estudo, foi investigado o efeito da timoquinona (TQ) contra deficiências de memória induzidas por propiltiouracilo (PTU) em ratos juvenis. Os ratos foram agrupados em grupos: controle, Hypo, Hypo-TQ5, e Hypo-TQ10. O PTU aumentou o tempo de latência no teste do labirinto aquático de Morris (MWM) e diminuiu o atraso para entrar no compartimento escuro no teste de evasão passiva (PA). Ambas as doses de TQ diminuíram o tempo de latência no teste de MWM e aumentaram o atraso para entrar no compartimento escuro no teste de PA. O PTU também aumentou os metabolitos de malondialdeído (MDA) e óxido nítrico (NO) no cérebro, enquanto reduziu o teor de tiol e as atividades de superóxido dismutasa (SOD) e catalasa (CAT) e o nível sérico de T4. Ambas as doses de TQ diminuíram os metabolitos de MDA e de NO no cérebro, aumentaram o conteúdo de tiol e as atividades de SOD e CAT e o nível de T4 no soro. Os resultados do presente estudo mostraram que a TQ protegeu contra deficiências de memória induzidas por PTU em ratos.

Lactate-upregulation of lactate oxidation complex-related genes is blunted in left ventricle of myocardial infarcted rats

Lactate modulates the expression of lactate oxidation complex (LOC)-related genes and cardiac blood flow under physiological conditions, but its modulatory role remains to be elucidated regarding pathological cardiac stress. The present study evaluated the effect of lactate on LOC-related genes expression and hemodynamics of hearts submitted to myocardial infarction (MI). Four weeks after MI or sham operation, isolated hearts of male Wistar rats were perfused for 60 min with Na+-lactate (20 mM). As expected, MI reduced cardiac contractility and relaxation with no changes in perfusion. The impaired cardiac hemodynamics were associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels (Sham: 19.3±0.5 vs MI: 23.8±0.3 µM), NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity (Sham: 42.2±1.3 vs MI: 60.5±1.5 nmol·h−1·mg−1) and monocarboxylate transporter 1 (mct1) mRNA levels (Sham: 1.0±0.06 vs MI: 1.7±0.2 a.u.), but no changes in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, NADH oxidase (NADox), and xanthine oxidase activities. Lactate perfusion in MI hearts had no additional effect on ROS levels, NADox, and NOX activity, however, it partially reduced mct1 mRNA expression (MI-Lactate 1.3±0.08 a.u.). Interestingly, lactate significantly decreased SOD (MI-Lactate: 54.5±4.2 µmol·mg−1·min−1) and catalase (MI: 1.1±0.1 nmol·mg−1·min−1) activities in MI. Collectively, our data suggest that under pathological stress, lactate lacks its ability to modulate the expression of cardiac LOC-related genes and the perfused pressure in hearts submitted to chronic MI. Together, these data contribute to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of heart failure induced by MI.

Hyperin protects against cisplatin-induced liver injury in mice

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of hyperin in cisplatin-induced liver injury in mice. Methods: Mice were pretreated with hyperin at doses of 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, respectively, for six days, and intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin (40 mg/kg) was administrated one hour after the final intragastrication of hyperin. Twenty-four hours later, blood and liver were collected for further research. Results: A single injection of cisplatin (40 mg/kg) for 24 h significantly increased serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (ALT/AST) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) activities, whileas hyperin reversed cisplatin-induced such increases. Liver histopathological examination further demonstrated the protection of hyperin against cisplatin-induced liver injury. Further results showed hyperin reversed cisplatin-induced the increase in content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the decrease in level of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in liver. Moreover, hyperin increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-s transferase (GST) in cisplatin-induced liver. Conclusion: Hyperin inhibits cisplatin-induced hepatic oxidative stress, which contributes greatly to the amelioration of cisplatin-induced liver injury in mice.

Estresse oxidativo e parâmetros inflamatórios em pacientes com doença celíaca / Oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters inpatients presenting celiac disease

Objetivos: Determinar a presença de estresse oxidativo e inflamação no intestino de pacientes com doença celíaca. Método: Foi realizado estudo transversal que incluiu pacientes submetidos à endoscopia gastrointestinal. A população do estudo consistiu em 24 casos e 26 controles. Foram medidos os níveis duodenais de proteínas carboniladas, espécies reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico, bem como catalase (CAT), superóxido dismutase (SOD). Também foram determinados os níveis intestinais de interleucina (IL) 6, 10 e 8. A classificação de Marsh foi registrada e utilizada como parâmetro de gravidade da doença. Resultados: Tanto a IL-6 como a IL-10, mas não a IL8, aumentaram nos pacientes com doença celíaca quando comparados com indivíduos saudáveis. Os parâmetros de dano oxidativo foram aumentados,enquanto que as defesas antioxidantes foram reduzidas em nossa amostra. Os níveis de IL6 ea atividade do SOD foram relacionados com a pontuação de Marsh. Conclusões: Diferentes marcadores de inflamação e estresse oxidativo estão alterados no intestino de pacientes com doença celíaca, e alguns deles estão relacionados à gravidade da doença.(AU)

Objectives: Determine the presence of oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut of patients with celiac disease. Methods: Transversal study that included patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed. The study population consisted 24 cases and 26 controls. The duodenal levels of protein carbonyls, thiobarbituric acid reactive species, as well as catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured. Gut levels of interleukin (IL) 6, 10 and 8 were also determined.The Marsh classification was recorded and used as a parameter of disease severity. Results: Both IL-6 and IL-10, but not IL8, were increased in celiac disease patients when compared to healthy individuals. Oxidative damage parameters were increased while antioxidant defenses were decreased in our sample. Both IL6 levels and SOD activity were related to Marsh score. Conclusions: Different markers of inflammation and oxidative stress are altered in the gut of celiac disease patients, and some of them are related to disease severity.(AU)

Oxidative stress and antioxidant response in a thermotolerant yeast

Abstract Stress tolerance is a key attribute that must be considered when using yeast cells for industrial applications. High temperature is one factor that can cause stress in yeast. High environmental temperature in particular may exert a natural selection pressure to evolve yeasts into thermotolerant strains. In the present study, three yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, MC4, and Kluyveromyces marxianus, OFF1 and SLP1) isolated from hot environments were exposed to increased temperatures and were then compared with a laboratory yeast strain. Their resistance to high temperature, oxidative stress, and antioxidant response were evaluated, along with the fatty acid composition of their cell membranes. The SLP1 strain showed a higher specific growth rate, biomass yield, and biomass volumetric productivity while also showing lower duplication time, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and lipid peroxidation. In addition, the SLP1 strain demonstrated more catalase activity after temperature was increased, and this strain also showed membranes enriched in saturated fatty acids. It is concluded that the SLP1 yeast strain is a thermotolerant yeast with less oxidative stress and a greater antioxidant response. Therefore, this strain could be used for fermentation at high temperatures.

The effect of tadalafil therapy on kidney damage caused by sepsis in a polymicrobial septic model induced in rats: a biochemical and histopathological study

ABSTRACT Introduction Sepsis is an inflammatory reaction to bacteria involving the whole body and is a significant cause of mortality and economic costs. The purpose of this research was to determine whether tadalafil exhibits a preventive effect on sepsis in a septic model induced in rats with cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Materials and Methods Rats were randomly separated into groups, 10 rats in each: (i) a sham (control) group, (ii) an untreated sepsis group, (iii) a sepsis group treated with 5mg/kg tadalafil and (iv) a sepsis group treated with 10mg/kg tadalafil. A polymicrobial sepsis model was induced in rats using CLP. Rats were sacrificed after 16h, and blood and kidney tissues were collected for biochemical and histopathological study. Results Levels of the inflammatory parameter IL-6 decreased significantly in the sepsis groups receiving tadalafil in comparison with the untreated sepsis group (p<0.05). In terms of histopathology, inflammation scores investigated in kidney tissues decreased significantly in the sepsis groups receiving tadalafil compared to the untreated sepsis group (p<0.05). In addition, levels of creatinine and cystatin C measured in septic rats receiving tadalafil were lower by a clear degree than in septic rats (p<0.05). Conclusion In this study, tadalafil exhibited a preventive effect for sepsis-related damage by suppressing inflammation in serum and kidney tissue of septic rats in a polymicrobial sepsis model induced with CLP.

Oxidative stress in human aorta of patients with advanced aortoiliac occlusive disease

Abstract Introduction: Oxidative stress seems to be a role in the atherosclerosis process, but research in human beings is scarce. Objective: To evaluate the role of oxidative stress on human aortas of patients submitted to surgical treatment for advanced aortoiliac occlusive disease. Methods: Twenty-six patients were divided into three groups: control group (n=10) formed by cadaveric organ donors; severe aortoiliac stenosis group (patients with severe aortoiliac stenosis; n=9); and total aortoiliac occlusion group (patients with chronic total aortoiliac occlusion; n=7). We evaluated the reactive oxygen species concentration, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities as well as nitrite levels in samples of aortas harvested during aortofemoral bypass for treatment of advanced aortoiliac occlusive disease. Results: We observed a higher level of reactive oxygen species in total aortoiliac occlusion group (48.3±9.56 pmol/mg protein) when compared to severe aortoiliac stenosis (33.5±7.4 pmol/mg protein) and control (4.91±0.8 pmol/mg protein) groups (P<0.05). Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity was also higher in total aortoiliac occlusion group when compared to the control group (3.81±1.7 versus 1.05±0.31 µmol/min.mg protein; P<0.05). Furthermore, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were significantly higher in the severe aortoiliac stenosis and total aortoiliac occlusion groups when compared to the control cases (P<0.05). Nitrite concentration was smaller in the severe aortoiliac stenosis group in comparing to the other groups. Conclusion: Our results indicated an increase of reactive oxygen species levels and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase activity in human aortic samples of patients with advanced aortoiliac occlusive disease. The increase of antioxidant enzymes activities may be due to a compensative phenomenon to reactive oxygen species production mediated by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase. This preliminary study offers us a more comprehensive knowledge about the role of oxidative stress in advanced aortoiliac occlusive disease in human beings.