Exposición ambiental a plomo y biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en niños sanos de La Plata, Argentina / Environmental exposure to lead and oxidative stress biomarkers among healthy children in La Plata, Argentina

Introducción. La exposición ambiental a plomo (Pb) aún constituye un problema de salud pública, particularmente para los niños. El estrés oxidativo podría representar un mecanismo primario asociado a su toxicidad. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar los niveles de Pb en sangre (Pb-S) en niños de 1 a 6 años de La Plata y alrededores con exposición ambiental, y su relación con biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo. Población y métodos. Estudio analítico de corte transversal. Se evaluaron niños clínicamente sanos de 1 a 6 años. Se determinaron los niveles de Pb-S, las actividades de enzimas antioxidantes y el grado de peroxidación lipídica. Se utilizó el paquete estadístico R versión 3.5.1. Resultados. Participaron 131 niños, mediana de edad 2,33 años. La media geométrica de los niveles de Pb-S fue 1,90 µg/dL; el 32 % presentó plombemias cuantificables y el 3 %, niveles ≥5 µg/dL (referencia internacional). Al comparar los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo según los niveles de Pb-S, solo se observó diferencia significativa entre las medianas de las sustancias reactivas al ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS): 12,0 versus 10,0 nmol MDA/mL plasma; p = 0,02. Asimismo, la correlación entre las plombemias y las TBARS fue positiva (r = 0,24; p = 0,012). Conclusiones. La mayoría de los niños mostraron niveles de Pb-S menores a los límites recomendados por agencias internacionales, que si bien, no producen alteraciones en la actividad de enzimas antioxidantes, sí inducen peroxidación lipídica. Estos resultados reflejan la utilidad de este biomarcador como una herramienta diagnóstica temprana para evaluar los efectos subtóxicos del Pb.

Introduction. Environmental exposure to lead is still a major public health problem, especially in children. Oxidative stress may be a primary mechanism associated with toxicity. Theobjective of this study was to measure blood lead levels (BLLs) in children aged 1 to 6 years expos to lead in La Plata and suburban areas and their relation to oxidative stress biomarkers. Population and methods. Cross-sectional,analytical study. Clinically healthy children aged1 to 6 years were analyzed. BLLs, antioxidant enzyme activity, and extent of lipid peroxidation were measured. The statistical softwarepackage R, version 3.5.1, was used. Results. A total of 131 children participated; their median age was 2.33 years. The geometric mean of BLLs was 1.90 µg/dL; 32% showed a measurable BLL and 3%, BLLs ≥ 5 µg/dL (international reference). The comparison ofoxidative stress biomarkers based on BLshowed a significant difference in median thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS):12.0 versus 10.0 nmol MDA/mL of plasma;p = 0.02. In addition, the correlation between BLLs and TBARS was positive (r = 0.24; p = 0.012 Conclusions. Most children had a BLL below the limit recommended by international agencies; although such BLLs do not affantioxidant enzyme activity, they can induce lipid peroxidation. These results demonstrate theusefulness of this biomarker as an early diagnosistool to assess subtoxic lead effects.

Antiglycation and antioxidant activities of the crude extract and saponin fraction of Tribulus terrestris before and after microcapsule release / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#The present study investigated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction of Tribulus terrestris. It also developed a method of microencapsulation and evaluated antiglycation and antioxidant activities of crude dry extract and saponin fraction before and after microcapsule release.@*METHODS@#Antiglycation activity was determined by relative electrophoretic mobility (REM), free amino groups and inhibition of advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) tests. Microcapsules were prepared using maltodextrin as wall material and freeze-drying as encapsulation technique. Morphological characterization of microcapsules was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and encapsulation efficiency and microcapsule release were determined by total saponins released. Antiglycation and antioxidant assays were performed using crude dry extract and saponin fraction of T. terrestris before and after release.@*RESULTS@#Saponin fraction showed an increase of 32.8% total saponins. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of saponins in the obtained fraction. Antiglycation evaluation by REM demonstrated that samples before and after release presented antiglycation activity similar to bovine serum albumin treated with aminoguanidine. Additionally, samples inhibited AGE formation, highlighting treatment with saponin fraction after release (89.89%). Antioxidant tests demonstrated antioxidant activity of the samples. Crude dry extract before encapsulation presented the highest activities in DPPH (92.00%) and TBARS (32.49%) assays. Saponin fraction before encapsulation in FRAP test (499 μmol Trolox equivalent per gram of dry sample) and NO test (15.13 μmol nitrite formed per gram of extract) presented the highest activities.@*CONCLUSION@#This study presented antiglycation activity of crude dry extract and saponin fraction of T. terrestris, besides it demonstrated promising antioxidant properties. It also showed that the encapsulation method was efficient and maintained biological activity of bioactive compounds after microcapsule release. These results provide information for further studies on antidiabetic and antiaging potential, and data for new herbal medicine and food supplement formulations containing microcapsules with crude extract and/or saponin fraction of T. terrestris.

Antilipoperoxidative and anti-inflammatory efficacy of multifunctional sunscreens containing ferulic acid

Unprotected chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation generates many harmful effects to human skin and UV filters are essential to health, however, traditional sunscreens do not provide enough protection against cutaneous oxidative stress, a process amplified by UV radiation. Therefore, is been proposed the development of multifunctional photoprotective formulations, acting in the absorption/reflection of UV radiation and assisting in cutaneous homeostasis. In the present study, ferulic acid is used in conjunction with two sunscreens, bemotrizinol and ethylhexyl triazone, for the determination of biosafety and efficacy methods, using techniques that better elucidate the effects of ferulic acid. Skin permeation assays were performed by applying a formulation containing the three substances in the stratum corneum of volunteers, which were removed by the tape stripping method (ex vivo) with follow quantification by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The test was able to evaluate the penetration depth of the substances, characterizing them. In addition, the simultaneous quantification of the three substances was performed by a single and fast method, facilitating their analysis and improving the technique. Also, TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) assays were performed in stratum corneum removed by tape stripping (ex vivo), evaluating the potential of cutaneous lipid peroxidation, with or without ferulic acid. To date, it is the first time that TBARS method is used to characterize the stratum corneum (ex vivo) and quantified by HPLC. The protocol developed may aid in the efficacy of antioxidant agents in studies aimed at elucidating the level of lipid peroxidation caused by drugs and cosmetics, and even in carrying out baseline studies characterizing different ethnicities and genders. As last, an anti-inflammatory in vivo assay with Laser Doppler flowmetry equipment was used to compare the sunscreen formulation with or without ferulic acid. Data indicated that the antioxidant reduced the angular coefficient of the perfusion units, mitigating the inflammatory effects. Furthermore, a significant difference was found between the genders, suggesting a more pronounced inflammatory reaction in women. Ferulic acid proved to be a valuable resource, besides being safe and raise the SPF of sunscreens, it also mitigates the effects of inflammation

A exposição crônica desprotegida à radiação ultravioleta (UV) contribui para o desenvolvimento de câncer de pele e os filtros solares são relevantes para evitar tais efeitos prejudiciais, porém, os protetores solares tradicionais não geram proteção suficiente contra o estresse oxidativo cutâneo. Logo, espera-se o desenvolvimento de formulações fotoprotetoras multifuncionais, atuando não somente na absorção e/ou reflexão da radiação UV, mas, também, auxiliando na homeostase cutânea, com presença de agentes antioxidantes. No presente estudo foi utilizado o ácido ferúlico conjuntamente com dois filtros solares, o bemotrizinol e a triazona de octila, para determinação de métodos de segurança e eficácia, utilizando técnicas que melhor elucidem e comprovem os efeitos do ácido ferúlico. Foram realizados ensaios de permeação cutânea pela aplicação tópica de formulação contendo as três substâncias em voluntários, sendo o estrato córneo retirado pelo método de tape stripping (ex vivo) com subsequente quantificação por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). O ensaio pôde avaliar a profundidade de penetração das substâncias, caracterizando-as. Ademais, a quantificação simultânea das três substâncias foi efetuada por método único e rápido, facilitando análise com aprimoramento da técnica. Em adição, foi realizado ensaios de TBARS (substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico) em estrato córneo removido por tape stripping (ex vivo), para avaliar o potencial de peroxidação lipídica cutânea, contendo ou não o ácido ferúlico. Até o presente momento, é a primeira vez que o método TBARS é utilizado para caracterização do estrato córneo (ex vivo) e quantificada por CLAE. O protocolo desenvolvido pode auxiliar na eficácia de agentes antioxidantes, em estudos que visam elucidar o nível de peroxidação lipídica causada por medicamentos e cosméticos e, até mesmo, na realização de estudos de base, caracterizando etnias e gêneros. Ademais, um ensaio anti-inflamatório in vivo com equipamento de fluxometria Laser Doppler foi utilizado para comparar a formulação fotoprotetora com ou sem ácido ferúlico. Os dados indicaram que o antioxidante reduziu o coeficiente angular das unidades de perfusão, mitigando os efeitos inflamatórios. Ainda, foi identificada diferença entre os gêneros, sugerindo reação inflamatória mais pronunciada em mulheres. O ácido ferúlico provou ser um recurso valioso, além de ser seguro e elevar o FPS dos fotoprotetores, também atenuando os efeitos da inflamação

Quality enhancement of frozen Nile tilapia fillets using rosemary and thyme oil / [Melhoria da qualidade de filetes de tilápia do Nilo congelados com óleo de alecrim e tomilho]

The food industry and the frozen fish sector in particular have benefitted greatly from advancements in food processing technologies. This study investigated the effect of adding natural antioxidants such as rosemary and thyme oil to frozen fillets of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in order to preserve their quality for consumers. Fillets were treated with rosemary and thyme at two concentrations (1% and 1.5%) and then were stored at 4°C. Samples were analyzed over 4 days for bacteriological (aerobic plate count, psychotropic count, and coliform count), chemical (determination of pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances-TBARS, and total volatile base nitrogen-TVB-N), and sensory quality examination (color, texture, and odor). Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed among different groups in terms of aerobic plate count, psychotropic count, and coliform count during the storage. Moreover, pH, TVB-N, and TBARS mean values in the treated groups were lower than those in the untreated group. The best sensory quality was obtained at the highest concentrations (1.5%) of thyme and rosemary oil.(AU)

A indústria de alimentos e o setor de peixes congelados, em particular, se beneficiaram dos avanços nas tecnologias de processamento de alimentos. Este estudo investigou o efeito da adição de antioxidantes naturais, como óleo de alecrim e tomilho, a filetes congelados de tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus), a fim de preservar sua qualidade para os consumidores. Os filés foram tratados com alecrim e tomilho em duas concentrações (1% e 1,5%) e, em seguida, foram armazenados a 4°C. As amostras foram analisadas durante 4 dias para análises bacteriológicas (contagem de placas aeróbicas, psicotrópicas e coliformes), químicas (determinação do pH, substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico-TBARS e nitrogênio base volátil total-TVB-N) e exame da qualidade sensorial (cor, textura e odor). Diferenças significativas (P<0,05) foram observadas entre os diferentes grupos na contagem aeróbia de placas, contagem psicotrópica e contagem de coliformes durante o armazenamento. Além disso, os valores médios de pH, TVB-N e TBARS nos grupos tratados foram inferiores aos do grupo não tratado. A melhor qualidade sensorial foi obtida nas maiores concentrações (1,5%) de tomilho e óleo de alecrim.(AU)

Effects of childhood trauma on BDNF and TBARS during crack-cocaine withdrawal

Objective: To evaluate the association between childhood trauma (CT) and serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) during crack-cocaine withdrawal. Method: Thirty-three male crack-cocaine users were recruited at admission to a public addiction treatment unit. Serum BDNF and TBARS levels were evaluated at intake and discharge. Information about drug use was assessed by the Addiction Severity Index-6th Version (ASI-6); CT was reported throughout the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). CTQ scores were calculated based on a latent analysis model that divided the sample into low-, medium-, and high-level trauma groups. Results: There was a significant increase in BDNF levels from admission to discharge, which did not differ across CT subgroups. For TBARS levels, we found a significant time vs. trauma interaction (F2,28 = 6.357, p = 0.005,ηp 2 = 0.312). In participants with low trauma level, TBARS decreased, while in those with a high trauma level, TBARS increased during early withdrawal. Conclusion: TBARS levels showed opposite patterns of change in crack-cocaine withdrawal according to baseline CT. These results suggest that CT could be associated with more severe neurological impairment during withdrawal.

Guilingji Capsules reduce 900 MHz collphone electromagnetic radiation-induced testicular oxidative damage and downregulate Prdx2 protein expression in the rat testis / 中华男科学杂志

Objective@#To investigate the relationship of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from 900 MHz cellphone frequency with testicular oxidative damage and its influence on the Prdx2 protein expression in the rat testis, and to explore the mechanism of Guilingji Capsules (GC) alleviating oxidative damage to the testis tissue.@*METHODS@#Fifty healthy SD male rats were randomly divided into five groups of equal number, sham-EMR, 4-h EMR, 8-h EMR, 4-h EMR+GC and 8-h EMR+GC and exposed to 900 MHz EMR (370 μW/cm2) for 0, 4 or 8 hours daily for 15 successive days. The rats of the latter two groups were treated intragastrically with GC suspension and those of the first three groups with pure water after exposure to EMR each day. After 15 days of exposure and treatment, all the rats were sacrificed and their testis tissue collected for observation of the histomorphological and ultrastructural changes by HE staining and transmission electron microscopy, measurement of the levels of serum glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) with thiobarbiuric acid and determination of the Prdx2 protein expression by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the rats in the sham-EMR group, those in the 4-h and 8-h EMR groups showed different degrees of histomorphological and ultrastructural changes in the testis tissue, significantly decreased levels of GSH (［80.62 ± 10.99］ vs ［69.58 ± 4.18］ and ［66.17 ± 8.45］ mg/L, P < 0.05) and SOD (［172.29 ± 10.98］ vs ［158.92 ± 6.46］ and ［148.91 ± 8.60］ U/ml, P < 0.05) and increased level of MDA (［7.51 ± 1.73］ vs ［9.84 ± 1.03］ and ［11.22 ± 2.13］ umol/ml, P < 0.05), even more significantly in the 8-h than in the 4-h EMR group (P < 0.05). In comparison with the sham-EMR group, the expression of the Prdx2 protein was markedly downregulated in the 4-h and 8-h EMR groups (0.56 ± 0.03 vs 0.49 ± 0.03, 0.21 ± 0.01, P < 0.05), but again upregulated in the 4-h and 8-h EMR+GC groups (0.55±0.03 and 0.37±0.04) (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Electromagnetic radiation from cellphones can cause ultrastructural damage to the testis tissue of male rats, while Guilingji Capsules can alleviate it, presumably by upregulating the Prdx2 protein expression in the testis tissue and reducing testicular oxidative damage.

A influência da ocitocina e do antagonista do receptor de ocitocina no metabolismo ósseo, estresse oxidativo, padrões da marcha e análise do tipo ansioso de ratas senescentes / The influence of oxytocin and the oxytocin receptor antagonist on bone metabolism, oxidative stress, gait and analysis of the anxious type of senescent rats

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ação da ocitocina (OT) endógena, bem como o efeito potencializador da OT exógena sobre o metabolismo ósseo, estresse oxidativo, marcha e análise do tipo ansioso de ratas na periestropausa. Ao completar 19 meses, os animais receberam injeções de solução salina (0,15M/ip), Atosiban (AT) (At; 300 µg/Kg/ip), OT (Ot; 134 µg/Kg/ip) ou At+Ot (injeções de OT 5 minutos após AT), sendo duas injeções de cada substância por dia, com intervalos de 12 horas entre elas, a cada 30 dias até a idade de 21 meses. Após trinta dias sem tratamentos, foi realizada a coleta de amostras biológicas. Aspartato aminotransferase (AST), marcador de dano hepático, foi menor em Ot e At+Ot. Substância ácida reativa ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARs É¥mol/L), marcador do dano oxidativo lipídico, foi maior no grupo Ot comparado ao At (p = 0,0093), e menor no At+Ot em relação ao Ot (p = 0,0040). Houve maior defesa antioxidante enzimática avaliada por meio da superóxido dismutase (SOD) no grupo Ot em comparação ao Veh (p < 0,0312). Por sua vez, no grupo At houve maior atividade enzimática da fosfatase alcalina (FAL) em relação ao Veh e Ot (p < 0,0001; At+Ot: p = 0,0015). A espessura do tecido ósseo compacto foi menor no grupo At em relação ao Veh (p = 0,0228), no entanto, foi maior no grupo Ot em relação ao Veh e At (p = 0,0132, p < 0,0001); no grupo At+Ot foi menor quando comparado ao grupo Ot (p = 0,0003). O número de trabéculas ósseas foi menor no grupo At comparado ao Veh (p = 0,0240), e maior em Ot em relação ao At (p = 0,0084). Quanto a análise imunoistoquímica realizada no osso cortical do colo do fêmur, o grupo Ot apresentou maior expressão de osteocalcina (OCN) em comparação aos grupos Veh e At (p = 0,05 e 0,0033), e menor expressão no grupo At+Ot em relação ao grupo Ot (p = 0,05). A expressão de fosfatase ácida resistente ao tartarato (TRAP) foi menor no grupo Ot comparado aos grupos Veh e At (p = 0,05 e 0,0033), contudo foi maior no grupo At+Ot comparado ao Ot (p = 0,05). A densidade mineral óssea areal (DMO) foi significativamente maior nos grupos Ot e At+Ot em relação à Veh (p < 0,0001) e grupo At (p = 0,0231, p = 0,0418). Por sua vez, a relação mineral-matriz (vPO4/Proline) foi maior e a substituição de carbonato tipo B (CO3/vPO4) foi menor no grupo Veh. O teste de deambulação por comprimento (cm) usado para avaliar função musculoesquelética, aumentou em última análise no grupo Ot em relação ao grupo Veh - F (p = 0,0078), At - F (p = 0,0023), bem como aumentou sobre Ot - I (p = 0,0094). O teste do labirinto, usado para estudar o comportamento chamado "tipo ansioso", demonstrou que a OT inverte a redução nas entradas dos braços fechados, reduz o tempo gasto no centro causado pelo At. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo demonstram que a OT ajuda a modular o ciclo de remodelação óssea de ratas senescentes, melhorando os parâmetros de densitometria óssea e os parâmetros funcionais musculoesquelético(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the endogenous oxytocin (OT) action, as well as the potentiating effect of exogenous OT on the bone metabolism, oxidative stress, gait and analysis of the anxious type of rats in periestropause. Upon completing 19 months, the animals received injections of saline solution (0.15M/ip), Atosiban (AT) (At; 300 µg/Kg/ip), OT (Ot; 134 µg/Kg/ip) or At+Ot (OT injections 5 minutes after AT), being two injections of each substance per day, with intervals of 12 hours between them, every 30 days until the age of 21 months. After thirty days without treatment, biological samples were collected. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), a marker of liver damage, was lower after Ot and At+Ot. Acid reactive substance to thiobarbituric acid (TBARs µmol/L), marker of lipid oxidative damage, was higher in the Ot group compared to At (p = 0.0093), and lower in At+Ot compared to Ot (p = 0.0040). There was a higher antioxidant enzymatic defense evaluated by means of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the Ot group compared to Veh (p < 0.0312). In turn, in the At group there was greater alkaline phosphatase (FAL) enzymatic activity in relation to Veh and Ot (p < 0.0001; At+Ot: p = 0.0015). The thickness of the compact bone tissue was smaller in the At group in relation to Veh (p = 0.0228), however, it was greater in the Ot group in relation to Veh and At (p = 0.0132, p < 0.0001); in the At+Ot group it was smaller when compared to Ot (p = 0.0003). The number of bone trabecules was smaller in the At group compared to the Veh (p = 0.0240), and greater in Ot in relation to the At (p = 0.0084). As for the immunohistochemical analysis performed on the cortical bone of the femoral neck, the Ot group presented a higher expression of osteocalcin (OCN) compared to the Veh and At groups (p = 0.05 and 0.0033), and lower expression in the At+Ot group compared to the Ot group (p = 0.05). The tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) expression was lower in the Ot group compared to the Veh and At groups (p = 0.05 and 0.0033), however it was higher in the At+Ot group compared to Ot (p = 0.05). The sandal mineral density (BMD) was significantly higher in the Ot and At+Ot groups compared to Veh (p < 0.0001) and At group (p = 0.0231, p = 0.0418). In turn, the parent mineral ratio (vPO4/Proline) was higher and the replacement of carbonate type B (CO3/vPO4) was lower in the Veh group. The walking test per length (cm) used to evaluate musculoskeletal function was ultimately increased in group Ot in relation to group Veh - F (p = 0.0078), At - F (p = 0.0023), as well as increased over Ot - I (p = 0.0094). The labyrinth test, used to study the so-called "anxious type" behavior, demonstrated that the OT reverses the reduction in the entries of the closed arms, reducing the time spent in the center caused by At. The results obtained in this study show that the OT helps to modulate the cycle of bone remodeling of senescent rats, improving the parameters of bone densitometry and the musculoskeletal functional parameters(AU)

Efeito da radiação gama sobre a oxidação lipídica da carne bovina / Effect of gamma radiation on lipid oxidation of beef

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses de radiação (1, 2, 3, 6 e 9 kGy) sobre a oxidação lipídica de contrafilés bovinos pela determinação das substâncias reativas ao ácido 2-tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) e por cromatografia gasosa utilizando a técnica de microextração em fase sólida (SPME). As amostras irradiadas apresentaram maior concentração de aldeídos, com maior incidência de nonanal, independentemente da dose aplicada. Maiores concentrações de hexanal foram observadas nas amostras irradiadas por maiores doses (6 e 9 kGy), mas os maiores valores de TBARS foram observados nas amostras irradiadas por 3 e 6 kGy. Uma redução nos valores de aldeídos, especialmente nonanal e octanal, foi observada para amostras irradiadas por 2 kGy quando comparadas às demais amostras irradiadas. Conclui-se que o processo de irradiação aumentou o grau de oxidação das amostras, que consequentemente, aumentou a concentração dos aldeídos presentes.

Capacidad antioxidante in vitro del liofilizado de la pulpa y cáscara del rizoma de Zingiber officinale Roscoe (jengibre) / In vitro antioxidant capacity of freeze dried pulp and peel of the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger)

Objetivo. Evaluar la capacidad antioxidante in vitro del liofilizado de la pulpa y cáscara del rizoma de Zingiber officinale Roscoe (jengibre) mediante los ensayos DPPH, FRAP y TBARS. Materiales y métodos. Se separó la pulpa y la cáscara de los rizomas de Z. officinale, se preparó un macerado con solución hidroalcohólica (70:30 EtOH:H2O), y luego de rotaevaporar, se liofilizó. La capacidad antioxidante de los liofilizados se evaluó según porcentaje de inhibición del radical DPPH y el poder antioxidante de reducción férrica (FRAP), así como la capacidad de inhibir la peroxidación lipídica in vitro mediante el ensayo TBARS. Resultados. Los extractos liofilizados de la pulpa y cáscara evidenciaron moderada capacidad antioxidante, siendo similar según porcentaje de inhibición del radical DPPH (46,5 y 45,6% respectivamente). Sin embargo, mediante el ensayo FRAP la cáscara presentó una capacidad antioxidante de 31,09 µg/mL expresados como equivalentes de trolox (ET) en comparación a la pulpa (22,96 µg ET/mL). Además, solo el liofilizado de cáscara del rizoma de Z. officinale a bajas concentraciones (0,1, 0,2 y 0,3 mg/mL) es capaz de reducir significativamente (p < 0,01) la peroxidación lipídica in vitro. Conclusión. La cáscara del rizoma de Z. officinale posee mayor capacidad antioxidante en comparación con la pulpa según los ensayos FRAP y TBARS; sin embargo, la inhibición de radicales DPPH fue la misma tanto en la cáscara como en la pulpa.

Objective. To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the freeze-dried pulp and peel of the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) using the DPPH, FRAP and TBARS assays. Materials and Methods. The pulp and peel were separated from the rhizomes of Z. officinale, then a macerate was prepared with a hydroalcoholic solution (70:30 EtOH: H2O), and after rotary evaporation, lyophilized. The antioxidant capacity of lyophilisates was evaluated according to the percentage of DPPH radical inhibition and the ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP), as well as the ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation in vitro using the TBARS assay. Results. Freeze-dried pulp and peel extracts showed moderate antioxidant capacity, being similar according to the percentage of DPPH radical inhibition (46.5% and 45.6% respectively). However, utilizing the FRAP assay, the peel presented an antioxidant capacity of 31.09 µg/mL expressed as Trolox Equivalents (ET) compared to the pulp (22.96 µg ET / mL). Also, only the freeze-dried peel of Z. officinale at low concentrations (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg / mL) can significantly reduce p < 0.01 lipid peroxidation in vitro. Conclusion. The rhizome peel of Z. officinale has a higher antioxidant capacity compared to the pulp according to the FRAP and TBARS assays, however; DPPH radical inhibition was the same in both the peel and pulp.

Effects of cisplatin on photosensitizer-mediated photodynamic therapy in breast tumor-bearing nude mice

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the potential effects of cisplatin on photodynamic therapy (PDT) in breast cancer using a breast tumor-bearing mouse model. METHODS: In this study, breast tumor (experimental mammary tumour-6 cell)-bearing nude mice were used as experimental animals. Photolon® (photosensitizer, 2.5 mg/kg body weight [BW]) was injected intraperitoneally; after 2 hours, the tumors were irradiated (660 nm, 80 J/cm2) using a diode laser tool. Cisplatin (3 mg/kg BW) was injected intraperitoneally 1 hour before the Photolon® injection. RESULTS: Tumor volume increased over time in the control group and was not different from that in the cisplatin group. In the PDT group, the tumor volume increased on day 3, but not on day 7. In the cisplatin+PDT group, tumor volume increased on day 3 but decreased on day 7. There was no significant difference in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in tumor tissues between the control and cisplatin groups. The levels of TBARS in the cisplatin+PDT group were higher (47%) than those in the PDT group. Analysis of tumor tissue transcriptomes showed that the expression of genes related to the inflammatory response including CL and XCL genes increased, while that of Fn1 decreased in the cisplatin+PDT group compared with the PDT group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that cisplatin enhances the therapeutic effect of PDT in a breast tumor-bearing mouse model. However, further clinical studies involving patients with breast cancer is needed.

Therapeutic effect of adenosine on experimentally induced acute ulcerative colitis model in rats

Abstract Purpose To examine the therapeutic effect of external adenosine on an acetic acid-induced acute ulcerative colitis model in rats. Methods Thirty male mature rats were divided into three groups as control, acute colitis (AC) and AC+adenosine group (AC+AD). AC was induced by rectal administration of 4% acetic acid (AA). 5mg/kg/day adenosine was performed i.p for 4 weeks to AC+AD group. Rectum and colon were excised for microscopic and histopathological histopathologic evaluations, and immunohistochemical analysis of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB). Blood samples were collected for biochemical detection of TNF-α, Pentraxin-3 and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Results AC group had generalized hyperemia and hemorrhage with increased macroscopic and histopathological scores compared with control (P <0.0001) while adenosine treatment decreased these scores significantly (P <0.001), with reduced distribution of disrupted epithelium, leukocyte infiltrates, and focal hemorrhage. AC group showed significantly increased immunoexpression of NF-kB in rectum, plasma and tissue levels of TNF-α, plasma Pentraxin-3 and MDA levels (P <0.0001) while adenosine reduced these levels (P < 0.05). Conclusion Adenosine appears to promote healing of colon and rectum exposed to AA-induced AC, suggesting a boosting effect of adenosine on the intestinal immune system to cure ulcerative colitis.

Avaliação ex vivo da inibição da peroxidação lipídica do estrato córneo promovida por filtros UVB / Ex vivo evaluation of the inhibition of lipid peroxidation of the stratum corneum promoted by UVB filters

O aumento da incidência do câncer de pele está associado à maior exposição à luz solar e a adoção de ações de proteção ao Sol é uma estratégia para minimizar os níveis cumulativos de danos à pele. Os raios ultravioletas (UV), ao alcançarem o tecido cutâneo, podem causar eritema, inflamação, fotoenvelhecimento, formação de rugas e imunossupressão, entre outros, devido à formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ERO´s). A formação de ERO´s, como o oxigênio singleto, radical ânion superóxido, peróxido de hidrogênio e radical hidroxil, elevam o risco dos danos foto-oxidativos. O desequilíbrio entre a formação de ERO´s e os mecanismos antioxidantes do organismo desencadeia o estresse oxidativo. Na pele, as ERO´s são as responsáveis pelo dano oxidativo no DNA, proteínas e lipídeos. Identificar e quantificar biomarcadores do estresse oxidativo cutâneo é essencial para a correlação entre os raios UV e seus efeitos. Deve-se isto, em parte, à limitação de métodos para quantificar os parâmetros que são diretamente afetados pela exposição aos raios UV, tais como a peroxidação lipídica. São necessários métodos complementares para avaliação da eficácia de fotoprotetores perante os danos causados por este tipo de estresse. Esta pesquisa projeto compreendeu a avaliação ex vivo da eficácia de filtros solares UVB por meio da quantificação da peroxidação lipídica proveniente do estrato córneo removido por tape stripping. Foram preparados sistemas emulsionados do tipo O/A com os filtros octocrileno, metoxicinamato de octila e salicilato de octila. A caracterização funcional da eficácia fotoprotetora in vitro demonstrou que o filtro octocrileno manteve-se estável, mesmo após exposição solar artificial. Os filtros octocrileno (10% p/p), metoxicinamato de octila (10% p/p) e salicilato de octila (5% p/p) alcançaram, após irradiância, respectivamente, os valores de FPS 5,7 ± 2,1; 4,7 ± 1,5 e 1,0± 0,0. As formulações foram utilizadas na avaliação da eficácia fotoprotetora ex vivo. O método por CLAE, para quantificação da peroxidação lipídica no estrato córneo, possuiu linearidade e demonstrou exatidão e precisão satisfatórias. O estresse pela radiação UV desencadeou a peroxidação lipídica no estrato córneo. Em função do protocolo aplicado, não houve diferenças entre as amostras. A eficácia, com relação à inibição da peroxidação lipídica, foi similar em todas as amostras

The increasing of incidence of skin cancer is associated with greater exposure to sunlight and the adoption of sun protection actions is a strategy to minimize cumulative levels of skin damage. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, when they reach the cutaneous tissue, can cause erythema, inflammation, photoaging, wrinkling and immunosuppression, among other things, due to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The formation of ROS, such as singlet oxygen, superoxide anion radical, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical, raise the risk of photooxidative damage. The variation between the formation of ROS and the antioxidant mechanisms of the organism triggers oxidative stress. In the skin, ROS are responsible for oxidative damage in DNA, proteins and lipids. Identifying and quantifying biomarkers of cutaneous oxidative stress is essential for the correlation between UV rays and their effects. This is partially due to the limitation of methods for quantifying parameters that are directly affected by exposure to UV rays, such as lipid peroxidation. Complementary methods are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of photoprotectors because of the damage caused by this type of stress. This research project had the ex vivo evaluation of the efficacy of UVB sunscreens by quantifying the lipid peroxidation from the stratum corneum removed by tape stripping. Emulsified O/A type systems were prepared with the octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate and octyl salicylate filters. The functional characterization of photoprotective efficacy in vitro revealed that the octocrylene filter remained stable even after artificial sun exposure. Octocrylene (10% w / w), octyl methoxycinnamate (10% w / w) and octyl salicylate (5% w / w) respectively reached the values of FPS 5.7 ± 2.1; 4.7 ± 1.5 and 1.0 ± 0.0. The formulations were used in the evaluation of ex vivo photoprotective efficacy. The method by HPLC, for quantification of the lipid peroxidation in the stratum corneum, had linearity and demonstrated satisfactory accuracy and precision. UV radiation stress triggered lipid peroxidation in the stratum corneum. Due to the protocol applied, there were no differences between the samples. The efficacy, compared to the inhibition of lipid peroxidation, was similar in all samples

Effect of Sulgidduk containing pine needle juice on lipid metabolism in high fat-cholesterol diet induced dyslipidemic rats / 한국영양학회지

PURPOSE: Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Pine needles (Pinus densiflora seib et Zucc) are a traditional medicine used to treat dyslipidemia in clinical settings. This study examined the potential effects of sulgidduk, a Korean traditional rice cake containing pine needle juice to protect against dyslipidemia induced by a high-fat/sugidduk diet in a rat model. METHODS: Twenty one male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into three groups: normal control (NC), Sulgidduk diet (SD), Sulgidduk diet containing pine needle juice (PSD). The blood lipid levels, production of lipid peroxide in the plasma and liver, total cholesterol and triglyceride in the liver and feces, antioxidant enzyme activities in plasma and erythrocytes were measured to assess the effects of PSD on dyslipidemia. RESULTS: A high-fat/Sulgidduk diet induced dyslipidemia, which was characterized by significantly altered lipid profiles in the plasma and liver. The food intake was similar in the three groups, but weight gain and food efficiency ratio (FER) were reduced significantly in the PSD group compared to those in the SD group. The level of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and TBARS in the plasma showed tendencies to decrease in the PSD group compared to those in the SD group. The levels of high-fat/Sulgidduk diet-induced sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) gene expression were reduced significantly in the PSD group. The supplementation of PSD reduced the hepatic triglyceride and total cholesterol levels significantly, and enhanced the fecal excretion of triglyceride and hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities compared to the SD group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the addition of 0.4% pine needle juice to Sulgidduk may be an alternative snack to control dyslipidemia.

Evaluation of redox profiles in exogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism at two different levels of TSH suppression

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluate the relationship between exogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism and oxidative stress through the analysis of the redox profile of patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism exogenous (SCH) grade I (TSH = 0.1 to 0.4 IU/mL) and grade II (TSH < 0.1 IU/mL). Subjects and methods: We analyzed 46 patients with SCH due to the use of TSH suppressive therapy with LT4 after total thyroidectomy along with 6 control euthyroid individuals (3M and 3W). Patients were divided into two groups, G1 with TSH ≥ 0.1-0.4 IU/mL (n = 25; and 7M 14W) and G2 with TSH < 0.1 IU/mL (n = 25; and 4M 21W). Venous blood samples were collected to measure the levels of markers for oxidative damage (TBARS, FOX and protein carbonylation), muscle and liver damage (CK, AST, ALT, GGT) and antioxidants (GSH, GSSG and catalase). Results: Individuals in G2 showed a GSH/GSSG ratio ~ 30% greater than those in G1 (p = 0.004) and a catalase activity that was 4 times higher (p = 0.005). For lipid peroxidation, the levels measured in G2 were higher than both control and G1 (p = 0.05). No differences were observed for both protein carbonyl markers. G1 and G2 presented with greater indications of cell injury markers than the control group. Conclusion: TSH suppression therapy with LT4 that results in subclinical hyperthyroidism can cause a redox imbalance. The greater antioxidant capacity observed in the more suppressed group was not sufficient to avoid lipid peroxidation and cellular damage.

Fibra y capacidad antioxidante de algas comestibles en ratas suficientes o deficientes en vitamina E / Fiber and antioxidant capacity of edible algae in vitamin E sufficient and deficient rats / Fibra e capacidade antioxidante de algas comestíveis em camundongos suficientes e deficientes em vitamina E

Debido a la importancia que han alcanzado las algas en la alimentación de los países occidentales aquí se estudió el potencial de las algas Nori y Wakame como fuentes de fibra y capacidad antioxidante en ratas en crecimiento alimentadas con dietas suficientes o deficientes en vitamina E (vit E) durante 15 días. Hubo 3 grupos de ratas que recibieron dietas: 1. grupo control, 2. grupo Nori y 3 grupo Wakame con vit E y 3 grupos similares sin vit E. En las dietas con vit E, Nori produjo una reducción de crecimiento y las dos algas causaron una acumulación de vit E hepática, una reducción en la vit E plasmática y un aumento en TBARS en plasma e hígado. En contraste, cuando las algas se ofrecieron en dietas exentas de vit E, el grupo Nori recuperó su capacidad de crecer, mantuvo una mayor reserva de vit E en el hígado que el grupo control deficiente en vit E y el consumo de ambas algas resultó en TBARS plasmáticos por debajo de las ratas controles deficientes en vit E, lo que señaló que las algas se comportaron mejor en dietas sin vit E. Adicionalmente, se observó que las algas estimularon la función excretora del intestino sin afectar su capacidad absortiva.

In western countries, edible seaweed consumption has markedly increased in recent years. Accordingly, in this study the antioxidant capacity and fiber value of Nori and Wakame algae were evaluated in growing rats fed with sufficient of deficient vitamin E. There were 3 groups of rats: 1. Control, 2. Nori and 3. Wakame with vitamin E and 3 similar groups without vitamin E. The diet with Nori and sufficient vitamin E caused a reduction in growth and Nori and Wakame were associated with liver vitamin E accumulation, plasma vitamin E reduction and an increase in TBARS in liver and plasma. In contrast, when the same diets were offered without vitamin E, the Nori fed rats recovered their growing capacity, they maintained a higher vitamin E reserve than the control or Wakame fed rats, and the consumption of both algae was associated with lower plasma TBARS than vitamin E deficient rats, indicating that these algae are best accepted when offered without vitamin E. In addition, both algae improved the excretory capacity of the intestine without affecting its absorption function.

Visto que nos países ocidentais revestiu importância o consumo de algas na alimentação, aqui foi estudado o potencial das algas Nori e Wakame como fontes de fibra e capacidade antioxidante em ratos em crescimento, alimentados com dietas suficientes ou deficientes em vitamina E (vit E) durante 15 dias. Houve 3 grupos de ratos que receberam dietas: 1. grupo controle, 2. grupo Nori e 3. grupo Wakame com vit E e 3 grupos similares sem vit E. Nas dietas com vit E, Nori produziu uma redução no crescimento e as duas algas provocaram uma acumulação de vit E hepática, redução da vit E plasmática e aumento em TBARS em plasma e fígado. Em contraste, quando as algas foram oferecidas em dietas sem vitamina E, o grupo Nori recuperou sua capacidade de crescimento, manteve maior reserva de vit E no fígado do que o grupo controle deficiente em vit E e o consumo de ambas as algas resultou em TBARS plasmáticos mais baixos do que nos ratos do grupo controle deficientes em vitamina E, indicando que essas algas são melhor aceitas quando oferecidas sem vit E. E, também, as algas melhoraram a capacidade de excreção do intestino sem afetar sua função de absorção.

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.

Efecto del liofilizado de hojas de Mangifera indica L. "mango kent", sobre memoria espacial y la lipoperoxidación en membranas neuronales de Rattus norvegicus Sprague Dawley ovariectomizadas / Effect of lyophilized of leaves of Mangifera indica L."mango kent", on spatial memory and lipoperoxidation in neuronal membranes of Rattus norvegicus Sprague Dawley ovariectomized

Objetivos. Evaluar el efecto del liofilizado de hojas de Mangifera indica L. mango Kent, sobre memoria espacial y la lipoperoxidación en membranas neuronales de Rattus norvegicus Sprague Dawley ovariectomizadas. Materiales y métodos. Estudio experimental. Se usaron 24 especímenes hembras de 2 meses de edad, con un peso entre 150-200 g, dieciocho de ellas fueron previamente ovariectomizadas (OVX); luego fueron distribuidas (n = 6) en grupos blanco, control, problema 1 y problema 2. Al grupo control se le administró vía oral (VO) NaCl 9º/oo, a los grupos problema 1 y 2 se les administró VO el liofilizado a una concentración de 0,05 g/mL en dosis de 0,25 y 0,50 g/kg, respectivamente, la administración fue durante un periodo de 8 semanas. La memoria espacial se evaluó mediante el laberinto acuático de Morris y para determinar la lipoperoxidación en membranas neuronales según niveles de malondialdehido (MDA), se utilizó el ensayo de las especies reactivas del ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) a 532 nm. Resultados. Los niveles de MDA (nmol/mL) en medianas (rango intercuartilar) fueron en el grupo control: 5,0 (2,8); blanco: 2,2 (1,7); problema 1: 3,6 (0,3); y problema 2: 4,6 (1,1). La memoria espacial evaluada a través del laberinto acuático de Morris presentó una mejora significativa (p = 0,04) en el parámetro tiempo de latencia de escape para el grupo problema 1 (32,4 ± 17,6 s) en comparación con el control (75,8 ± 18,6 s). Conclusiones. El liofilizado de hojas de Mangifera indica L. mango Kent, a dosis de 0,25 g/kg mejora la memoria espacial y presenta efecto antioxidante expresado en la disminución de los niveles de MDA; aunque no se encontraron diferencias significativas en comparación con el control.

Objectives. To evaluate the effect of the lyophilized of leaves of Mangifera indica L. mango Kent, on spatial memory and lipid peroxidation in neuronal membranes of Rattus norvegicus Sprague Dawley ovariectomized. Material and methods. Experimental research. Twenty-four female specimens of 2 months of age, with a weight between 150-200 g, were used; eighteen of them were previously ovariectomized (OVX); then they were distributed (n = 6) in groups non-intervened, control, problem 1 and problem 2. The control group was administered orally (VO) NaCl 9º/oo, the problem groups 1 and 2 were administered VO lyophilized at a concentration of 0.05 g/mL in doses of 0.25 g/kg and 0.50 g/kg respectively, administration was for a period of 8 weeks. Spatial memory was evaluated by the Morris Water Maze and to determine the lipoperoxidation in neuronal membranes according to malondialdehyde levels (MDA), the assay of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) at 532 nm was used. Results. The median (interquartile range) MDA (nmol/mL) values were on control group: 5.0 (2.8), non-intervened group: 2.2 (1.7), problem 1 group: 3.6 (0.3) and problem 2 group: 4.6 (1.1). The spatial memory evaluated through the Morris Water Maze showed a significant improvement (p = 0.04) in the Escape Latency Time parameter for the problem group 1 (32.4 ± 17.6 s) in comparison with thecontrol (75.8 ± 18.6 s). Conclusions. The lyophilized of leaves of Mangifera indica L. mango Kent, at a dose of 0.25 g/kg improves spatial memory and presents antioxidant effect expressed in the decrease of MDA levels; instead of that, there were no significant differences between experimental groups and control.

Porphyromonas gingivalis accelerates atherosclerosis through oxidation of high-density lipoprotein

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) to induce oxidation of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and to determine whether the oxidized HDL induced by P. gingivalis exhibited altered antiatherogenic function or became proatherogenic. METHODS: P. gingivalis and THP-1 monocytes were cultured, and the extent of HDL oxidation induced by P. gingivalis was evaluated by a thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) assay. To evaluate the altered antiatherogenic and proatherogenic properties of P. gingivalis-treated HDL, lipid oxidation was quantified by the TBARS assay, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels and the gelatinolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 were also measured. After incubating macrophages with HDL and P. gingivalis, Oil Red O staining was performed to examine foam cells. RESULTS: P. gingivalis induced HDL oxidation. The HDL treated by P. gingivalis did not reduce lipid oxidation and may have enhanced the formation of MMP-9 and TNF-α. P. gingivalis-treated macrophages exhibited more lipid aggregates than untreated macrophages. CONCLUSIONS: P. gingivalis induced HDL oxidation, impairing the atheroprotective function of HDL and making it proatherogenic by eliciting a proinflammatory response through its interaction with monocytes/macrophages.

The Protective Effect of Melissa officinalis L. in Visceral Hypersensitivity in Rat Using 2 Models of Acid-induced Colitis and Stress-induced Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Possible Role of Nitric Oxide Pathway

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of present study is to estimate the effects of Melissa officinalis L. (MO) on visceral hypersensitivity (VH), defecation pattern and biochemical factors in 2 experimental models of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the possible role of nitric oxide. METHODS: Two individual models of IBS were induced in male Wistar-albino rats. In the acetic acid model, the animals were exposed to rectal distension and abdominal withdrawal reflex, and the defecation patterns were determined. In the restraint stress model, the levels of TNF-α, myeloperoxidase, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant powers were determined in the (removed) colon. Rats had been treated with MO, L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME), aminoguanidine (AG), MO + AG, or MO + L-NAME in the mentioned experimental models. RESULTS: Hypersensitive response to rectal distension and more stool defecation in control rats have been observed in comparison to shams. MO-300 significantly reduced VH and defecation frequency in comparison to controls. VH and defecation pattern did not show significant change in AG + MO and L-NAME + MO groups compared to controls. Also, significant reduction in TNF-α, myeloperoxidase, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and an increase in antioxidant power in MO-300 group was recorded compared to controls. AG + MO and L-NAME + MO groups showed a reverse pattern compared to MO-300 group. CONCLUSIONS: MO can ameliorate IBS by modulating VH and defecation patterns. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties along with its effect on the nitrergic pathway seem to play important roles in its pharmacological activity.

Combined Effects of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Depression on Spatial Memory in Old Rats / 中国医学科学杂志(英文版)

Objective To investigate the combined effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and depression on spatial memory in old rats, aiming to better understand the comorbidity of the two diseases in geriatric patients. Methods The SD rats were assigned into five groups: adult control group (n=6), elderly control group (n=6), elderly COPD group (n=6), elderly depression group (n=6) and elderly COPD with depression group (n=6). Smoking and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) with solitary support were used to induce COPD model, depression model, respectively, and the both were applied for the comorbidity model. Learning and memory deficits were assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) test. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and hippocampus tissue were determined by Xanthinoxidase method and Thiobarbituric acid reaction (TBAR) method, respectively. Results The results of pulmonary histology, lung function, open-field test and sucrose consumption demonstrated the comorbidity models of COPD and depression in elderly rats were successfully established using smoking and CUMS with solitary support. Compared with the elderly control group, the group of COPD with depression had obviously longer time of latency and longer travel distance to reach the platform in MWM test (LSD-t=-10.116, P=0.000; LSD-t=-6.448, P=0.000). The SOD activity in serum and hippocampus decreased significantly (LSD-t=2.629, P=0.014; LSD-t=2.215, P=0.044) and the MDA content in serum and hippocampus increased significantly (LSD-t=-2.140, P=0.042; LSD-t=-2.070, P=0.049) in elderly COPD with depression group. Conclusions COPD in comorbidity of depression could induce spatial memory deficit in old rats. The mechanisms might be related to the overloaded and free radical metabolic imbalance. These results suggest a potential therapeutic target for comorbidity of COPD and depression in geriatric patients.