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Methomyl (Met) is a carbamate pesticide, extensively used as an insecticide and an acaricide. Environmental and occupational exposures to this chemical may pose serious health risks. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of vitamin E (Vit E) against methomyl-induced toxicity. Thirty-two pregnant rats were divided into four groups and treated orally on gestational days 0–18: control, Met (10 mg/kg/day), Vit E (100 mg/kg/day) and (Met + Vit E), respectively. Biochemical parameters, progesterone levels and reproductive indices were evaluated. After post-partum, ovaries were excised, weighed and used for histopathological examinations. Results showed that Met induces significant alterations in biochemical parameters, progesterone levels and reproductive outcomes. Moreover, Met-ovary sections revealed vessel congestion and an increase in atretic follicles. The co-administration of Vit E along with Met can achieve obvious ameliorative effects in biochemical and reproductive parameters, and in ovarian-histopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between the intake of vitamin C, vitamin E and ß-carotene, and the risk of Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane library, CNKI, and WanFang databases were searched from inception to 29 August 2022 for observational studies reporting the odds ratios (ORs) or relative risks (RRs) or hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of PD by Vitamin C/Vitamin E/ß-carotene intake. Random-effects models, publication bias assessment, subgroup, sensitivity and dose-response analyses were performed, using. Stata version 12.0. Results: A total of 13 studies were included. There was no significant association between highdose vitamin C intake and the risk of PD compared with low-dose vitamin C intake (RR = 0.98, 95%CI:0.89,1.08). Compared with low-dose intake, high-dose intake of vitamin E can prevent the risk of PD (RR = 0.87, 95%CI:0.77,0.99). Compared with lower ß-carotene intake, there was a borderline non-significant correlation between higher intake and PD risk (RR = 0.91, 95% CI:0.82,1.01), and high dose ß-carotene intake was found to be associated with a lower risk of PD in women (RR = 0.78, 95%CI:0.64,0.96). Conclusion: This study shows that vitamin E intake can reduce the risk of PD and play a preventive role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant vitamins have been proven to be highly efficient in treatment of skin impaired by oxidative stress, but challenges regarding stability and skin penetration limit their therapeutic effect. Lipid-based drug delivery systems offer great potential for overcoming these drawbacks. This work aimed to identify the most promising system for combined antioxidant therapy. A comparative assessment of several systems, containing the same ingredients but differing in their microstructure, was therefore performed. Namely, microemulsions (MEs) of both types (W/O and O/W) and lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs), simultaneously loaded with vitamin C or ascorbyl palmitate and vitamin E, were assessed. Stability, antioxidant capacity (DPPH assay), and release (Franz diffusion cells) of the vitamins incorporated was examined. The results obtained were supported with the systems' thermal and rheological (rotational and oscillatory tests) evaluation. In addition, biological acceptability (MTS assay) of the systems studied was investigated. The findings demonstrate that the microstructure of MEs and LLCs studied has a decisive impact on the stability, antioxidant activity, and release of the vitamins incorporated. The highest stability was preserved in LLCs for both pairings, with vitamins C and E being a more stable combination. LLCs also provided suitable vitamins' antioxidant activity and release characteristics. In addition, the system exhibited preferable rheological features for dermal administration. Furthermore, cytotoxicity studies on a keratinocyte cell line demonstrated the highest biocompatibility for LCCs with the cell proliferation being greater than 85%. In conclusion, LLCs were confirmed as the most favorable lipid-based drug delivery system for combined antioxidant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:The combined supplementation of vitamins C and E potentially can mitigate oxidative stress (OS) and accelerate recovery following exercise. However, there is little evidence and a lack of consensus on the effects of these vitamins for this purpose. The objective of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence on the effects of the combined supplementation of vitamins C and E in OS, inflammatory markers, muscle damage, muscle soreness, and musculoskeletal functionality following acute exercise. Methods: The search was carried out from inception until March 2021, on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, and SPORT Discus. We included placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of combined supplementation of vitamins C and E in OS, inflammatory markers, muscle damage, muscle soreness, and muscle strength following a single bout of exercise. Random-effect meta-analyses were used to compare pre to post-exercise mean changes in subjects who received supplementation with vitamins C and E or placebo versus controls. Data are presented as standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: Eighteen RCTs, accounting for data from 322 individuals, were included. The use of vitamins attenuated lipid peroxidation (SMD= −0.703; 95% CI= −1.035 to −0.372; p < 0.001), IL-6 (SMD= −0.576; 95%CI= −1.036 to −0.117; p = 0.014), and cortisol levels (SMD= −0.918; 95%CI= −1.475 to −0.361; p = 0.001) immediately, and creatine kinase levels 48 h following exercise (SMD= −0.991; 95%CI= −1.611 to −0.372; p = 0.002). Supplementing the combination of vitamins had no effects on protein carbonyls, reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio, catalase, interleukin-1Ra, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, muscle soreness, and muscle strength. Conclusion: Prior supplementation of the combination of vitamins C and E attenuates OS (lipid peroxidation), the inflammatory response (interleukin-6), cortisol levels, and muscle damage (creatine kinase) following a session of exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of nutrition education program on protein and nutrient intake, physical performance, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years). The participants were randomized in clusters to intervention (IG, n = 51) and control (CG, n = 45) groups. Those in IG took part in the Eating for Strong Aging education program consisting of nutrition education in peer groups, written materials, and personal advice. Nutrient intake was assessed with 3-day food diaries, physical performance with Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and HRQoL with 15-D-QoL instrument. Total of 89 participants completed the study. The mean age was 76 years (IG) and 74 years (CG). At three months, the mean change in protein intake was 0.10 g/adjusted bodyweight (ABW) kg/d in the IG, and −0.07 g/ABW kg/d in the CG (p = 0.024). Intakes of polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamins C and E increased in the IG compared to the CG (p < 0.05). Changes in SPPB or total HRQoL scores between the IG and the CG did not differ. HRQoL dimension mobility improved in the IG compared to the CG (p = 0.035). In conclusion, the Eating for Strong Aging educational program improved nutrition and may be beneficial for mobility-related QoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to develop a liposome that could exert unparalleled antioxidant effects. In the present study, a vitamin C (VC)/vitamin E (VE)-co-loaded multivesicular liposome (VCVE-MVL) was constructed. Vitamins were encapsulated in soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and cholesterol (CHO) by multi-emulsification method. The concentration of VC was determined by Fast Blue method. The concentration of VE was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Vitamin antioxidant capacity in vitro and in vivo was determined using β-carotene bleaching. VCVE-MVL with particle diameter of 848.55 ± 0.29 nm and SPAN of 0.16 ± 0.11 were obtained. The encapsulation efficiency of VC reached 48.51% (w/w)±0.15. Compared with VC/VE solution, VCVE-MVL had a higher permeation efficiency. In addition, the in vitro and ex-vivo antioxidant tests verified the adequate antioxidant activity of VCVE-MVL. In conclusion, the antioxidant synergistic system we constructed and demonstrated its potential applications in the cosmetics industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify the nutrients that influence the performance of working memory, which is greatly affected as age progresses. A total of 1646 healthy adults between 21 and 80 years old participated in the study. The daily consumption of 64 nutrients was examined using a food frequency questionnaire that assessed food intake during the previous year. Working memory was measured in the verbal and spatial domains using a computerized task. We examined which nutrients influence working memory across the entire adult lifespan and whether the influence of any of these nutrients on working memory is moderated by individuals' ages. Working memory, across the entire adult lifespan, benefits from the intake of cholesterol, alcohol, gamma- and delta-tocopherol, vitamin B6, and palmitoleic, oleic, alpha linoleic and linoleic acids. Moderator analyses revealed that fats, energy, lactose and sodium negatively influenced working memory in middle-aged and older adults, whereas vitamin D and vitamin C had positive effects on memory beyond 70 years of age. Nutrients have the ability to positively or negatively affect working memory, which varies as a function of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between dietary antioxidants and breast cancer (BrCa) has been investigated in various studies. As a limitation, they generally investigate the relationship between one specific antioxidant and the risk/odds of BrCa, and synergistic or inhibitory effects are less considered. Dietary antioxidant index (DAI) is a reliable nutritional tool that evaluates total nutritional antioxidant capacity and is validated with serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and Malondialdehyde (MDA). Our study aimed to investigate the association between the DAI and the odds of BrCa and the correlation between the DAI and pathobiological markers. We hypnotized a correlation between DAI and pathobiological markers, and there is an association between DAI and the odds of BrCa. Methods: Our study included 145 incidence cases of BrCa and 148 hospital-based controls. Controls were randomly selected from patients attending the same center and were frequency-matched on age (±10 years). DAI was calculated based on a valid semi-quantitative 168-item food frequency questionnaire data. DAI standardizes intake of major dietary antioxidants, including vitamins A, E, C, selenium, zinc, and magnesium, and presents them as summarized scores. Results: Modeling with multivariable regressions adjusting for major confounders including age, education, body mass index, occupation, alcohol, smoking, pregnancy, history of cancer, menarche age, metabolic equivalent of task, hormone replacement therapy, and total energy intake, there was a significant association between odds of BrCa and DAI (odds ratio = 0.18; 95% confidence interval:0.09-0.37; p-value= <0.01). After multiple controls, there was a significant and weak reverse correlation between DAI and the number of lymph node(s) (correlation coefficient= −.140; p-value = 0.05). Conclusion: Our study supports the hypothesis that dietary antioxidants intake is associated with a reduced odds of BrCa. Evidently, DAI can reveal these relationships better than a single study of antioxidants. However, further studies are needed to confirm or refute these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of in ovo feeding of different levels of vitamins C and E on egg hatchability, immune response, growth and carcass traits of broiler chickens were investigated. A total of 672 fertilized eggs were assigned to one of eight experimental groups having three replicates with 28 eggs as follows: (1) negative control (not injected); (2) positive control (injected with 0.2 mL deionized water); (3) vitamin C at 1 mg; (4) vitamin C at 3 mg; (5) vitamin C at 6 mg; (6) vitamin E at 0.5 IU; (7) vitamin E at 0.75 IU; and (8) vitamin E at 1.0 IU. At the end of incubation, the number of chicks hatched, and their individual body weight were recorded. Among hatched birds, a total of 240 mixed chicks were randomly selected (30 subject per group equally shared in three pen floors). Chicks were vaccinated against Avian Influenza, Gumboro, Bronchitis, and Newcastle disease virus. Performance parameters were weekly evaluated until 42 days of age. At days 28 and 42, broiler serum and spleen and Bursa of Fabricius relative weight were assessed as well as on day 42 the carcass traits. From results, in ovo injection with 3 mg of vitamin C or 0.75 IU of vitamin E, increased significantly (p <.05) the embryos hatchability when compared to the negative control. However, body weight at hatch and growth performance parameters showed no differences among treatments. Similarly, in ovo concentrations of vitamins C or E showed no differences on carcass traits, immunity-related organs weight or immune response for anti-Newcastle disease hemagglutination-inhibition and total immunoglobulins against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) when compared to the control groups. Based on findings, it can be concluded that in ovo feeding vitamins E and C supported positively chicken embryos hatchability demonstrating the key-role as antioxidant agents; however, further studies are currently being evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in industrial and consumer products leads to concerns about their safety. Liver is one of the most important target organs of nanoparticles after entering the body. As such, the aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of vitamins (Vit) A, C, and E on ZnO NPs-induced liver oxidative stress. For this task, 54 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into nine groups of six: control 1 (water), control 2 (olive oil), Vit A (1000 IU/kg), Vit C (200 mg/kg), Vit E (100 IU/kg), ZnO (200 mg/kg), ZnO + VitA, ZnO + VitC, and ZnO + VitE. The animals received ZnO for 2 weeks while treatment with Vit started one week before the ZnO administration. In order to specify oxidative stress status, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative status and malondialdehyde were determined by colorimetric assay. In addition, the activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) were evaluated by colorimetric assay kit and qRT-PCR, respectively. Moreover, histological analysis was conducted to estimate the extent of liver damage. Our results indicate that the oxidative parameters are increased while the content of TAC, antioxidant enzymes activity, and gene expression of SOD, GPX, and CAT show a significant reduction in the liver of ZnO-treated rats compared to the control (p< 0.05). In contrast, the administration of Vit could significantly modulate the aforementioned changes. Overall, Vit A, E, and C can mitigate oxidative stress caused by ZnO NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary intake of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E protect against oxidative stress, and may also be associated with altered DNA methylation patterns. Methods: We meta-analysed epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) results from 11,866 participants across eight population-based cohorts to evaluate the association between selfreported dietary and supplemental intake of vitamins C and E with DNA methylation. EWAS were adjusted for age, sex, BMI, caloric intake, blood cell type proportion, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and technical covariates. Significant results of the meta-analysis were subsequently evaluated in gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and expression quantitative trait methylation (eQTM) analysis. Results: In meta-analysis, methylation at 4,656 CpG sites was significantly associated with vitamin C intake at FDR = 0.05. The most significant CpG sites associated with vitamin C (at FDR = 0.01) were enriched for pathways associated with systems development and cell signalling in GSEA, and were associated with downstream expression of genes enriched in the immune response in eQTM analysis. Furthermore, methylation at 160 CpG sites was significantly associated with vitamin E intake at FDR = 0.05, but GSEA and eQTM analysis of the top most significant CpG sites associated with vitamin E did not identify significant enrichment of any biological pathways investigated. Conclusions: We identified significant associations of many CpG sites with vitamin C and E intake, and our results suggest that vitamin C intake may be associated with systems development and the immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study determined the influence of in ovo (IO) vitamin E and ascorbic acid injections on hatching performance, chick development and antioxidant content of different tissues in day-old quail chicks. The experiment compared a control group (C: non-injection group) and injection groups, which had the yolk sac injected with 3.75 mg α- tocopherol (T1), or had the amniotic sac injected with 0.9% saline solution (T2), 2.5 mg ascorbic acid containing 0.9% saline solution (T3) and 2.5 mg ascorbic acid solution (T4), respectively. 2. Mean relative asymmetry (RA) of bilateral lengths increased in the T2, T3 and T4 groups, whereas it decreased in the T1 group compared to C. The highest total carotene content in the residual yolk sac (RYS) was seen for the T1 group, which was significantly higher compared to T2, T3 and T4 groups. The highest total carotene concentration in the liver was in the T1 group. 3. The concentrations of delta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol and total vitamin E in RYS tissue were significantly higher in the T1 group than T2, T3 and T4 groups. Alpha-tocopherol and total vitamin E levels in the liver were significantly higher in the T2 and T4 groups than C. 4. In ovo injections of vitamin E and ascorbic acid to different embryonic sacs caused antioxidant-specific effects on developmental stability of bilateral traits, RYS absorption, concentrations of total carotene and derivatives of vitamin E in newly hatched quail chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petrol contains mixture of mutagens and carcinogens which have potential health risk after prolonged occupational exposure. We have compared genotoxicity and its amelioration in blood samples from 70 petrol pump attendants, working in congested area of the Ahmedabad city, India and similar number (n = 70) of Control samples from office workers dwelling in less polluted areas of the city. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay showed highly significant frequencies of micronucleus in Exposed than in the Controls. The sister chromatid exchanges were also significantly increased while the cell cycle proliferative index was significantly decreased in the Exposed individuals than the Controls. Addition of standardized doses of vitamin C and vitamin E in the lymphocyte cultures (in vitro) significantly improved all the biomarkers. The long-term occupational petrol exposure causes genotoxic effects and use of vitamins C and E for protection should be further explored in randomized controlled studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was designed to explore the efficacy of vitamin C and E (VC&VE) against fluoride mediated testicular, epididymal and spermatozoal anomalies. Thirty two adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group-I was control; Group-II received sodium fluoride (NaF) at 15 mg/kg/day dose; Group-III was provided with VC (200 mg/kg/day) and VE (400 mg/kg/day) plus NaF; Group-IV received only VC&VE. Structural integrity and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl) of testis and epididymis were assessed. Spermatozoal parameters (count, motility, viability and hypo-osmotic swelling) were evaluated. Testicular functional maker enzymes (acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase) were also assessed. Integrity of testicular and spermatozoal DNA was evaluated. Testicular fluoride content was measured. Fluoride induced structural changes and alterations of oxidative stress markers were observed in testis and epididymis. Spermatozoal potentials were altered and reduced activities of testicular functional marker enzymes were observed. Fluoride caused testicular and spermatozoal DNA damages. VC&VE supplementation resulted in protection from all fluoride mediated alterations and helped in attenuating testicular fluoride accumulation. Antioxidant properties of VC&VE ameliorated fluoride mediated reproductive damages but only supplementation did not exhibit any notable effect compared to control rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deleterious effects of diabetes on seminal quality, serum metals and antioxidants have been confirmed. This study evaluated the effect of combined calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and E supplementation on seminal parameters, serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), nitric oxide (NO), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), calcium and magnesium in fructose-induced diabetic rats. Thirty rats were grouped into non-diabetic controls, diabetic controls, diabetic rats given vitamin E + C, calcium + magnesium and vitamin E + C + calcium + magnesium. The analytes were evaluated using standard methods. Statistical significance was set at p <.05. The diabetic controls had significantly higher MDA (p =.036) but lower (p =.0001) TAC, calcium, magnesium, sperm count, and %motility than the non-diabetic controls. The Vitamin C + E group showed the greatest improvement as they had the highest values of seminal parameters compared to other supplemented groups. Combined Vitamin C + E supplementation may provide better ameliorative benefits than a combination of Vitamin C, E, calcium and magnesium in diabetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Progressive loss of motor function including parkinsonian signs is common in older adults. As diet may contribute to the motor decline, we tested the hypothesis that dietary intake of antioxidant nutrients (carotenoids, vitamin E and vitamin C) is related to the progression of parkinsonian signs in older adults. Research Design and Methods: A total of 682 participants without a clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease from the Rush Memory and Aging Project, were assessed annually over an average of 5.7 (±3.0) years using a 26-item modified version of the United Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. The scale assesses the severity of four parkinsonian signs (bradykinesia, gait, tremors, and rigidity) that were averaged to construct a global parkinsonian sign score. Nutrient intakes were assessed at baseline using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The associations between quintiles of antioxidant nutrient intakes and progression of parkinsonian signs were assessed using mixed effects models adjusted for age, sex, education, smoking. Results: In separate adjusted models, a slower rate of progressive parkinsonian signs was observed among those in the highest intake quintiles of total carotenoids (β= −0.06, 95%CI: −0.10 to −0.02,), beta-carotene from foods (β= −0.04, 95% CI:−0.08 to −0.0021), lutein-zeaxanthin (β= −0.05, 95%CI:−0.09 to −0.02), vitamin E from foods (β= −0.04, 95%CI:−0.08 to −0.01,) and vitamin C from foods (β= −0.06, 95%CI:−0.10 to −0.02), when compared to those in the lowest quintiles of intake. Conclusion: A higher level of dietary antioxidant nutrients may slow the rate of parkinsonian sign progression in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new cyclic polyketide 7,9,11-trihydroxytetracos-2-eneoic acid d-lactone (1), together with other eleven known compounds, were isolated from Ononis spinosa, growing wildly in Jordan. All isolated compounds were identified by thorough investigation of their spectral data including NMR and HRESIMS. Antioxidant activity testing of puerol B, specionin and the new cyclic polyketide revealed that puerol B had the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 0.09 ± 0.006mg/ml) as compared to α-tocopherol (IC50 0.039 ± 0.0006mg/ml), while specionin had the highest ABTS radical scavenging power (IC50 0.013 ± 0.0008mg/ml) as compared to α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid (IC50 0.042 ± 0.0004; 0.026 ± 0.0007mg/ml; respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria is a concerning challenge for health systems. The polymyxins, including colistin, are one of the limited available options these pathogens management. Nephrotoxicity, beside neurotoxicity is the major dose-limiting adverse reaction of polymyxins, with an up to 60% prevalence. As oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways and apoptosis are considered as the main mechanisms of colistin-induced kidney damage, various studies have evaluated antioxidant and/or antiapoptotic compounds for its prevention. In this article, we reviewed animal and human studies on these probable preventive measures. Area covered: PubMed, Scopus, and google scholar databases were searched using several combination of 'colistin', 'polymyxin E', 'CMS', 'Colistimethate sodium', 'nephrotoxicity', 'kidney injury', 'kidney damage', 'renal injury', 'renal damage', 'nephroprotectants', 'renoprotective', 'nephroprotective', and 'prevention'. All eligible articles including animal and human studies up to the end of 2020 were included. Expert opinion: Most of available studies are in vivo researches on anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic agents like NAC, vitamin C and E, silymarin, and curcumin which mostly showed promising findings. However, limited human studies on NAC and vitamin C did not demonstrate considerable efficacy. So, before proposing these compounds, further well-designed randomized clinical trials are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) has been recognized as flavor enhancer that adversely affects male reproductive systems. The study was conducted to explore the conceivable protective effects of vitamin C and/or vitamin E on testicular toxicity induced by MSG in rats. Thirty male Wistar albino rats were divided (six per group) into: control, MSG, MSG + Vitamin C, MSG + Vitamin E and MSG + Vitamin C + Vitamin E groups. The duration of the study was three weeks. Assessment of serum testosterone, leuteinizing hormone (LH), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), interleukin-10 (IL-10) ,and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were done. Histopathological examination of the testes of the rats was performed using histological, histochemical (Periodic Acid Schiff reaction (PAS)), and immunohistochemical (Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), androgen receptors (ARs), Caspase-3) techniques. MSG-group was associated with significant decrease in serum testosterone, LH, GPX, and IL-10 (P < 0.05) and significant increase in serum MDA and TNF-α (P < 0.05) when compared with control group. MSG-group revealed many histopathological changes in the testis including degeneration of the germinal epithelium, absence of sperms in the lumina of tubules, widened vacuolated interstitium, marked deposition of the collagen fibers, very strong PAS reaction and marked immunohistochemical changes. Administration of vitamin C or vitamin E significantly reduced these changes; however, the combination of vitamin C and vitamin E provided more potent protection against the toxic effect of MSG than using each vitamin alone. Also, there was insignificant difference (P > 0.05) between MSG +Vitamin C and MSG +Vitamin E groups. Vitamin C and Vitamin E act synergistically in reducing MSG-induced testicular toxicity via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects of both vitamins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: African Americans (AAs) experience greater prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to other ethnic/racial groups. Low-grade chronic inflammation (often quantified by serum C-reactive protein CRP) is a well-documented risk factor for CVD. A healthy diet is plentiful in antioxidant nutrients and is associated with a lower inflammatory status and CVD risk. Our objective was to examine the relationship between dietary intake of antioxidants (carotenoids, vitamins A, C, E, and selenium) and serum CRP concentrations in mid-life and older AAs, while controlling for confounders. Methods: Data were from the baseline phase of a longitudinal church-based intervention study to reduce CVD risk in AAs. Anthropometrics were measured in a standard manner. Fasting serum samples were analyzed with ELISA for CRP. Multiple-pass 24-hour dietary recalls were used to assess intake; self-reported questionnaires were used to collect demographics. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Statistics 21 with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of n = 73 participants (n = 51 females) were included in the analyses. The females and males, respectively were 58.9 ± 10.3 and 59.4 ± 9.7 years old, with BMI of 34.6 ± 8.3 and 35.6 ± 9.3 kg/m2 (Mean ± SD). The mean serum CRP was above 0.6 mg/dL, although slightly lower in males. Males consumed more energy (kcal) and met RDA for selenium, whereas females met RDA for vitamin C. Both groups met RDA for vitamin A. All other dietary variables fell below the RDA or had no RDA established. Results from the binary logistic regression did not show significant association between dietary antioxidants and serum CRP in males or females. However, among females, for every unit increase in BMI, there was a 15% increase in serum CRP (OR = 1.15, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our study does not support the inverse relationship between antioxidants intake and CRP, but does support the evidence for obesity-induced inflammation and suggests the association can be applied to AA women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamins C and E are natural antioxidants and antibacterial that can be added to algae paste without any side effects on humans. The present study examined a method of producing microalgae paste from Nannochloropsis oculata and adding vitamins C and E in order to improve shelf life during storage at 4°C. Microalgae were grown in logarithmic phase in Conway culture medium with 3.2 × 107 cells/ml concentration. The microalgae paste was then treated with vitamins C, E, or a mixture of them (0.1% weight/weight), and refrigerated for 12 weeks. The initial density of the algae paste was 1.8 × 1010 cells/ml. The results showed that adding vitamins C and/or E to pastes increased cell viability in comparison to the control samples, indicating a positive effect of the vitamins (P <.05). While a significant increase in saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) was observed, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) significantly decreased during storage (P <.05). Total viable bacterial counts (TVBC), total psychrotrophic bacterial counts (TPBC), and total marine bacterial counts (TMBC) after the third week in control was significantly higher than other treated samples (P <.05). Total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) levels in the vitamin C treated samples were lower (P <.05) than control samples after the fifth week. Vitamin E was the most effective treatment for reducing the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values (TBARS) and hence oxidative rancidity after the sixth week. In summary, vitamins C or E proved to be suitable preservatives for this microalgae paste individually but not in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis is an extremely heterogeneous disease and affects about ten percent of the female population during their reproductive years. Recent studies showed that endometriosis is an angiogenesis-dependent disease. Peritoneal macrophages are a well-characterised source of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The aim of this study was to determine the VEGF gene expression and production in peritoneal macrophages of patients with endometriosis under the effects of vitamins C and E in comparison with control. The lab trial study carried out on 50 patients undergoing laparoscopy and peritoneal fluid samples were collected from them. We compared the VEGF gene expression and production in peritoneal macrophages among groups by using real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods, respectively. Our results showed that gene expressions influenced by vitamin C increased in different concentrations and incubation times, except for the incubation time after 48 h. In the case of vitamin E, this was evident with the exception of vitamin E 50 μM after 24 h and vitamin E 100 μM after 48 h. Our findings indicated that vitamin C and E in different concentrations and incubation times altered VEGF gene expression in the peritoneal macrophages but they had not affected on VEGF productions. Impact statement What is already known on this subject? Previous studies showed that antioxidants play a key role in the inhibition of oxidative stress-induced damages and the reduction of pelvic pain in patients with endometriosis. Vitamin E and vitamin C are the main components in neutralising free radicals. Also, antioxidant consumption such as vitamin C and vitamin E in women with endometriosis showed an inverse correlation between antioxidant intake and endometriosis pathology. What do the results of this study add? Vitamin C and E in different concentrations and times of incubation altered vascular endothelial growth factor gene expression and production in peritoneal macrophages. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Further studies are needed to determine the effects of C and E vitamins in different concentrations on vascular endothelial growth factor gene expression and production in peritoneal macrophages and the possible roles of these vitamins in treating endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Cupressus belonging to Cupressaceae family has twelve species worldwide. In Iran, Cupressus consists of only one species with two varieties C. sempervirens. var. horizentalis and C. sempervirens. var. sempervirens which has a cultivar namely C. sempervirens. cv. Cereiformis. In this study, the potential antioxidant activities of the oils of different parts of Cupressus sempervirens, C. sempervirens cv. Cereiformis and C. sempervirens var. horizentalis were examined.The qualitative and quantitative compositions of the oils were studied by GC/FID and GC/MS. Then the obtained essential oils, their main components as well as positive controls (Quercetin, DMSO, vitamin E and ascorbic acid) were subjected to different antioxidant tests including Rapid Thin-layer Chromatography method, diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, deoxyribose degradation test, and modified deoxyribose degradation test. While all the essential oils and pure compounds showed activity in rapid TLC screening, only the leaf oil of C. sempervirens var. sempervirens (38.4 %) and C. sempervirens cv. Cereiformis (77.9 %) exhibited moderate activity in DPPH assay. In deoxyribose degradation test, the low concentrations (0.05-0.2 μL/mL) of these two plants showed moderate activity while the fruit oil of C. sempervirens var. horizentalis showed the highest activity (17.7 %). These essential oils may be considered as natural preservatives in low concentrations provided that their organoleptic, cytotoxicity and allergic effects would be examined. Thus, complementary studies are recommended to be established. Moreover, it is suggested to examine the antioxidant activity of these oils by using non-polar or less polar solvent systems before any final conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplementation with antioxidants received interest as suitable tool for preventing or reducing exercise-related oxidative stress possibly leading to improvement of sport performance in athletes. To date, it is difficult to reach a conclusion on the relevance of antioxidants supplementation in athletes and/or well-trained people. The general picture that emerges from the available data indicates that antioxidants requirement can be covered by dosage equal or close to the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) provided by consumption of a balanced, well-diversified diet. Nevertheless, it remains open the possibility that in specific context, such as in sports characterized by high intensity and/or exhaustive regimes, supplementation with antioxidants could be appropriated to avoid or reduce the damaging effect of these type of exercise. This review will discuss the findings of a number of key studies on the advantages and/or disadvantages for athletes of using antioxidants supplementation, either individually or in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate growth performance and egg production traits of Japanese quails fed diets containing different supra-nutritional levels of vitamin E and C (600, 800 and 1000 mg/kg). A completely randomised design was adopted and main effects (vitamin E and C) were arranged in a 3 × 3 factorial approach. Throughout the study (42 to 105 d), the highest feed intake (vitamin C, p =.01) and weight gain (vitamin E × C, tendency p =.06) were obtained with vitamin E and/or C at 800 mg/kg whereas the highest dietary efficiency with 600 mg/kg of vitamin E plus 600 or 1000 of C and with 800 mg/kg of E plus 600 or 800 mg/kg of C (vitamin E × C, tendency p =.06). The highest final body weight was achieved with 1000 mg/kg of both the vitamins (vitamin E × C, p =.02). Vitamin E and/or C at 1000 mg/kg increased egg production, weight of produced eggs (vitamin E × C, p =.04), number of produced eggs to feed ratio, weight of produced eggs to feed ratio (vitamin E and C, p <.01), average egg volume (vitamin E × C, p =.03), and egg shape index (vitamin E, p <.01; vitamin C, p =.01). Current findings showed that feeding vitamin E and C at supra-nutritional levels can be a good management practice in Japanese quail nutrition to promote growth performance and egg production traits under thermoneutral condition. Supra-nutritional levels of vitamin E and C can promote growth performance and egg production traits of Japanese quails. Vitamin E plus C at high doses (1000 mg/kg) can synergistically act in promoting quail growth. Dietary supplementation with vitamin E at 800 or 1000 mg/kg plus vitamin C at 1000 mg/kg can improve egg production traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate growth performance and blood serum parameters of Japanese quails fed diets containing different supra-nutritional levels of vitamin E and C (600, 800 and 1000 mg/kg). A completely randomised design was adopted and main effects (vitamin E and C) were arranged in a 3 × 3 factorial approach. Throughout the study (1–42 d), the supplementation with 1000 mg/kg vitamin E and C resulted in the highest feed intake, weight gain, and final body weight (p <.01). Serum parameters showed that vitamin E and C at 1000 mg/kg determined the lowest serum concentrations of glucose, uric acid and creatinine (p ≤ 0.01) and the highest of high (HDL, p =.01) and low (LDL, p =.05) density lipoprotein cholesterol and albumin (p <.01). The administering of 1000 mg/kg vitamin E or C reduced triglycerides (p <.01), aspartate amino transferase (E, p <.01; C, p =.02) and alanine amino transferase (E, p <.01; C, p =.01) whereas increased total protein, calcium, phosphorous, thyroid stimulating hormone, red blood cells, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (p <.01). Vitamin C at 800 or 1000 mg/kg level decreased serum total cholesterol (p <.01) whereas vitamin E achieved the lowest alkaline phosphatase and the highest haemoglobin serum concentration (p <.01). The findings showed that these vitamins, used together at 1000 mg/kg, can individually or synergistically act promoting quail health, feed intake and growth. The use of vitamin E and C at high doses (1000 mg/kg) in quail diet can promote animal health. The vitamin E and C administration at high levels can be a good management practice in quail nutrition to promote feed intake and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healing of chronic plantar ulcers in leprosy (CPUL) typically takes a long time due to impaired neurological function, thereby reducing the levels of growth factors and cytokines. Cytokines can be found in metabolite products from amniotic membrane stem cells. Chronic ulcers are frequently characterized by high levels of reactive oxygen species. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is widely used in skin lesions, owing to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and collagen synthesis properties which are useful in wound healing. Herein, we compared the effects of topical human amniotic membrane-mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (hAMMSC-CM) alone and with vitamins C and E on healing of CPUL. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, topical agents were applied every 3 days for up to 8 weeks. Ulcer size, side-effects, and possible complications were monitored weekly. Results: Healing percentage increased each week in all groups. Mean difference in ulcer size was highest in the hAMMSC-CM + vitamin E group, implying better progress of wound healing. There were no side-effects or complications. Conclusions: hAMMSC-CM + vitamin E is best for healing of CPUL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this review is to examine the evidence on the effects of bioactive constituents of the Mediterranean diet (MeDi) on prostate cancer (PCa) risk.Methods: The search for articles came from extensive research in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. We used the search terms "Mediterranean diet," "lycopene," "vitamin E," "vitamin C," "Selenium," "resveratrol," "prostate cancer," and combinations, such as "lycopene and prostate cancer" or "resveratrol and prostate cancer."Results: Numerous studies investigating the effect of various dietary nutrients on PCa have suggested that selenium is probably the most promising. Several studies reported reduced PCa risk associated with vitamin C and E intake, while other studies reported no association. Lycopene inhibits cell proliferation and inducts apoptosis, thus protecting against cancer. Also, it has been found in various in vivo and in vitro studies that resveratrol, inhibits PCa development.Conclusions: The high content of bioactive phytochemicals in the MeDi is of particular interest in the prevention of PCa. Further large-scale studies are required to clarify the effect of MeDi bioactive compounds on prostate health, in order to establish the role of this diet in the prevention of PCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This is a narrative review, investigating the antioxidant properties of drugs used in the management of diabetes, and discusses whether these antioxidant effects contribute to, confound, or conceal the effects of antioxidant therapy. Methods: A systematic search for articles reporting trials, or observational studies on the antioxidant effect of drugs used in the treatment of diabetes in humans or animals was performed using Web of Science, PubMed, and Ovid. Data were extracted, including data on a number of subjects, type of treatment (and duration) received, and primary and secondary outcomes. The primary outcomes were reporting on changes in biomarkers of antioxidants concentrations and secondary outcomes were reporting on changes in biomarkers of oxidative stress. Results: Diabetes Mellitus is a disease characterized by increased oxidative stress. It is often accompanied by a spectrum of other metabolic disturbances, including elevated plasma lipids, elevated uric acid, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and central obesity. This review shows evidence that some of the drugs in diabetes management have both in vivo and in vitro antioxidant properties through mechanisms such as scavenging free radicals and upregulating antioxidant gene expression. Conclusion: Pharmaceutical agents used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes has been shown to exert an antioxidant effect.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress biomarkers of oral and systemic diseases can be found in saliva. However, there is no uniformity for the saliva collection time in these kinds of analyses and saliva composition may change because of mechanical stimulation. Therefore, the aim of this work was to determine the effect of mechanical stimulation for 10 min on the concentrations of vitamin C, vitamin E, total antioxidants and total oxidants in saliva. Saliva samples from individuals of both sexes, aged between 18 and 38 years, were collected for 10 min at 2 minintervals. Saliva flow rate in each 2 min period was measured, as well the total oxidant state, the total antioxidant capacity, vitamin C and vitamin E concentrations. All analyses were performed in triplicate and were determined using colorimetric tests. The results were analysed using t-test, Friedman's test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures. Mauchly's sphericity test was applied and, if necessary, technical corrections were made using the Greenhouse-Geisser test. We found no significant difference between the amounts of saliva produced across the collection times. Total oxidant status, total antioxidant capacity, vitamin C and vitamin E concentrations remained stable. Based on our findings, saliva can be collected for 10 min or less with masticatory stimulation without any variations in the concentration of the variables analysed. However, we suggest using saliva samples after two minutes of mechanical stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been accumulating evidence that several micronutrients may play a protective role in the risk of solid cancers. However, their role in hematological malignancies remains to be elucidated; this meta-analysis aims to evaluate the associations between micronutrient intake as well as supplementation and risk of hematological cancer in adults. Eligible cohort studies (examining intake of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, lycopene, folate, iron, carotenoids, beta-carotene, selenium, pyridoxine) were sought in PubMed up to July 31, 2016. Random-effects models were used for the calculation of pooled relative risks (RR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Twelve cohort studies were deemed eligible. Null associations were noted regarding supplemented vitamin A (pooled relative risk [RR] = 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80-1.07), supplemented vitamin C (pooled RR = 1.00, 95%CI: 0.90-1.12), total vitamin D (pooled RR = 1.05, 95%CI: 0.91-1.20), supplemented vitamin E (pooled RR = 0.98, 95%CI: 0.88-1.10), and dietary lycopene intake (pooled RR = 1.00, 95%CI: 0.86-1.16) and the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. No summary estimates are provided for other hematological malignancies due to the limited number of studies. Future prospective trials should be conducted for a better understanding of this field; especially regarding Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia and plasma cell neoplasms, on which data are scarce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western-style diets are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). In particular, a strong correlation has been documented between CRC and the consumption of large amounts of red meat, especially processed red meat. Compared with white meat, red meat contains high levels of haem iron, a molecule that can exert a variety of genotoxic and other adverse effects on the colonic epithelium. According to current international guidelines, the reduction of red meat intake combined with the consumption of food containing antioxidant and chemoprotective substances may significantly reduce the risk of developing CRC. The dietary strategies that can help to contrast the harmful effects of haem iron are reported and discussed in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) is a potent drug for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and has achieved remarkable remissions in patients. Unfortunately, clinical reports have shown that the treatment is associated with cardiotoxicity. Many efforts have been made to mitigate drug-mediated cardiac damage using naturally occurring antioxidant compounds possessing free radical scavenging activity. The present investigation aims to explore protective role of L-ascorbic acid (L-AA) and α-tocopherol (α-TOC) from As2O3-induced oxidative stress in H9c2 cardiomyocytes through the evaluation of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) transcription factors. The in vitro study was conducted using H9c2 cardiomyocytes. The evaluation of total antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial membrane potential, cellular calcium concentration and reactive oxygen species generation was performed. Oxidative stress (Nrf2) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl2) signaling indicators were measured by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. A depletion of the total antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial transmembrane potential were observed in As2O3-treated cardiomyocytes. In addition, the cellular calcium concentration and ROS generation were found to be increased on treatment with As2O3 with the alterations in the activity of transcription factors, Nrf2 and Bcl2. Co-treatment of antioxidant vitamins with As2O3 resulted in a significant reversal of oxidative stress and alteration on the antioxidant defense through the activation of Nrf2 and Bcl2. L-AA and α-TOC alleviates As2O3-induced oxidative stress in cardiac cells by activating Nrf2 and Bcl2 transcription factors that results in increased cell survival and prevents apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) is a promising new regimen for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The induction of oxidative stress mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and excessive intracellular calcium influx are the main reasons behind (As2O3) toxicity. Since liver is the major organ for xenobiotic metabolism, it is always under stress. Antioxidant vitamins such as LAscorbic acid (L-AA) and a-Tocopherol (α-TOC) have been proposed to have beneficial effects against a variety of pathological conditions and are known by their free radical scavenging properties. The present study evaluates the curative efficacy of L-AA and a-TOC against As2O3 toxicity using immortalized human Chang liver cells. Our results suggest that L-AA (100 mM) and α-TOC (50 mM) recovered (As2O3) (10 mM) cytotoxicity. Furthermore, (As2O3) treatment showed an increase in lipid peroxidation and depletion in antioxidant status, mitochondrial trans membrane potential and values of total antioxidant capacity. Cotreatment of antioxidant vitamins with (As2O3) resulted in a significant reversal of oxidative stress markers. Our findings substantiate the effect of antioxidant vitamins in protecting the hepatocytes from oxidative stress which may be attributed through Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) mediated upregulation of Bcl2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed dietary and micronutrient intakes of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients at key points in the disease trajectory and evaluated the contribution of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to micronutrient intake. HNC patients (n = 114) completed a three-day dietary record and a tool to assess Nutrition Impact Scores (NIS) at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up. Foods were classified into food categories. Micronutrient, protein, and energy intakes were compared to European Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition guidelines for cancer patients. The majority of patients did not meet recommended dietary intakes for vitamins D, E, C, folate, and magnesium at any study time point. Relative to baseline, the proportion of calories from milk, soup, and ONS significantly increased at post-treatment, while grain, meat, potato, baked dessert, and oil and sugar decreased (P < 0.03). At all study time points, patients categorized as high ONS consumers (>15% of total daily calories from ONS) had higher intakes of micronutrients (P < 0.003). They also had a higher NIS (P = 0.006) and experienced greater weight loss (P < 0.04) during the study, despite having similar energy intake to patients consuming <15% kcal from ONS. Fortification of usually consumed foods to improve micronutrient intake among cancer patients should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Glioma is the most common adult brain tumors. Dietary factors may play a role in the etiology of glioma. The Index of Nutritional Quality (INQ) provides a general overview for the nutrient content of a food or a diet. This study aimed to investigate the association between INQ and glioma and nutrient intakes.Material and methods:This study was included 128 patients and 256 controls. Dietary intakes of the subjects were evaluated by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and FFQ-derived dietary data were used to calculate INQ scores. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.Results:Cases had higher intake of total fat, saturated fatty acid (SFA), meats, hydrogenated oils and controls had higher intake of monounsaturated fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acid, calcium, dairy, fruits, and nuts. Only the INQ of vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, and fiber are higher in controls. An inverse association was observed between glioma and INQ of calcium, vitamin E, vitamin C, and fiber.Conclusion:The results of this study propose a healthy diet such as high intake of vitamins C and E, calcium, fiber, food groups like fruits and vegetables, and low-fat milk and nuts; and low consumption of total fat, SFA, and red meat may be protective against glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Ferulago angulata(Schlecht.) Boiss. (Apiaceae) (FASB) is used to treat liver diseases and has been used both as food and therapeutics by many cultures for thousands of years because of the natural antioxidant compounds. Objective:This study determines antioxidant properties of FASB flowers, the levels of minerals and vitamins, and also, evaluates the hepatoprotective effect of flowers againstN-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced on liver tissue by assessing antioxidant enzymes and histopathological parameters in Wistar albino rats. Materials and methods:In the study, the rats were divided into six groups of ten. Control, untreated animals were given 0.9% NaCl. Rats were intraperitoneally given NDMA (10 mg/kg) for the first 7 days. FASB methanol extract (150 and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally for 21 days. Results:α-Tocopherol, retinol, ascorbic acid, total antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid contents of FASB were 0.70 ± 0.13, 0.29 ± 0.03 μg/g, 139.32 ± 7.06 μg/100 g, 171.61 ± 6.05 mM ascorbic acid/g, 90.47 ± 4.11 mg GA/g and 37.39 ± 2.85 mg QE/g. DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was obtained IC5067.34 ± 4.14 and 64.87 ± 4.68 μg/mL, respectively. Discussion and conclusion:The results of the study indicated that FASB flowers contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, total antioxidant activity, phenolics and flavonoids. Due to the positive effect on significant changes in antioxidant enzymes of liver tissue and histopathological examination, it is thought that the plant could be used as a hepatoprotective. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Several clinical trials have produced conflicting results regarding the benefit of antioxidants in cancer therapy thus questioning the incorporation of these substances in standard treatment regimens. Vitamins E and C, selenium, carotenoids, lycopene, soy products, and green tea extract are a few substances with antioxidant properties that have been studied in detail. This article reviews the results generated over the last 20 years through in vitro and in vivo studies in various types of cancers and stages of cancer treatment. Despite the commercial popularity and the multitude of studies examining antioxidant therapy, the true role of antioxidants is yet to be determined, requiring further investigation into its propagative, causal, or protective nature. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of calorie restriction and dietary antioxidant supplementation, separately or in combination, on the quality and quantity of sperm in male rats. Forty male rats were randomly allocated to four groups of 10 animals each, and fed for at least 86 days with an ad libitum diet (group 1), a restricted diet (group 2), an ad libitum diet and astaxanthin, vitamin E, and vitamin C supplements (group 3), or a restricted diet with astaxanthin, vitamin E, and vitamin C supplements (group 4). At the end of the study period, sperm count and motility were determined with a hemocytometer, and differences between the groups were analyzed by analysis of variance. In addition, total antioxidant capacity and 8-epi prostaglandin F2 alpha were measured at the beginning and end of the study period with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. After 86 days, a significantly higher sperm count was seen in group 4 compared to other groups. The percentage of immotile sperm was significantly decreased in groups 2, 3, and 4 compared to group 1. A significant increase in total antioxidant capacity was observed in group 3 (p = 0.02) and group 4 (p = 0.02) compared to groups 1 and 2. Antioxidant supplementation with or without calorie restriction had no significant effect on the serum isoprostane level in any group. Astaxanthinin, combined with vitamin E, vitamin C, and calorie restriction, was able to ameliorate, in part, infertility in male rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer survivors are motivated to change lifestyle following diagnosis, but studies investigating the outcomes are scarce. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between antioxidant supplementation and quality of life (QoL) in stage-II colorectal cancer survivors. Four-hundred-fifty-three survivors were enrolled from the North Carolina Cancer Registry from 2009 to 2011. Interview data on demography, treatment, health behaviors, and QoL were collected at diagnosis, and at 12 and 24 mo post-diagnosis. Antioxidant supplementation was self-reported as use of selenium, zinc, beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin E, or vitamin C at baseline. Two-hundred-sixty-one subjects completed the 24-mo interview. After adjusting for multiple confounders, there was no association between antioxidant use and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment-Colorectal [β = 1.41; 95% confidence interval (CI): −2.48, 5.30] or the medical outcomes 12-item short form (physical composite score: β = 0.84; 95% CI: −1.39, 3.07; mental composite score: β = −0.61; 95% CI: −2.65, 1.43). This study revealed no benefit of antioxidant use among survivors, possibly explained by a limited sample size of antioxidant users. More prospective studies are necessary to assess the benefits of antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Overexpression of HSPA1A and HSPB1 has been shown to indicate stress and the degradation of damaged proteins. Therefore, the expression of these genes is often evaluated during exercise. Vitamin supplementation in young athletes may affect the expression of these genes, and help to maintain health and improve the effects of training. Methods: Fourteen top junior female athletes (age 14–15y ± 0.3 SD, body mass 51 kg ± 5 SD, and BMI of 20.15 ± 0.9 SD, time in professional training 8.5 y ± 0.5 SD) attended a conditioning camp that included meals planned by a team dietitian. To examine the effects of vitamin supplementation on antioxidant status we supplemented the athletes with either vitamin A (16 ug/kg/day), vitamin C (8 mg/kg/day) and vitamin E (1 mg/kg/day) or an inert placebo. Blood samples were taken before and after (12 h post) the camp to assess the relative expression of HSPA1A and HSPB1 mRNA in leukocytes via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results: Overall, participants trained ~135 min daily (1345 min total). No statistically significant differences in HSPA1A and HSPB1 expression were observed between the groups before the camp. In the unsupplemented group, there was a non-statistically significant increase in HSPA1A expression (100% change) and a significant increase (37% change, p < 0.05) in HSPB1 expression over the study period. The supplemented group experienced a significant decrease in HSPA1A (40% change, p = 0.01) and HSPB1 (25% change p = 0.03) expression over the study period. Conclusion: Our results indicate that supplementation with antioxidant vitamins decreases HSPA1A and HSPB1 mRNA expression in leukocytes, and thereby may reduce exercise-induced stress in young athletes, not only during training, but also in sports competitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Genotoxic stresses, including irradiation, lead to the apoptosis of damaged cells and the release of DNA fragments into circulation. Both α-tocopherol acetate and ascorbic acid possess antioxidant and radioprotective properties. Interestingly, depending on a particular experimental system, the treatment with vitamins may demonstrate either apoptosis-promoting or apoptosis-suppressing effects. Materials and methods: Adult Wistar male rats received total body irradiation with 2–100 Gy doses, while non-irradiated rats served as controls. Oral gavages with vitamins were administered either 10 min or 1 h before irradiation. Control groups were similarly treated with water. Blood samples were collected at 5 h post irradiation. The levels and the composition of circulating DNA were profiled. Chromosomal aberrations were assessed 24 h after irradiation. Results: A substantial dose-dependent increase in circulating low-molecular weight (LMW) DNA levels was observed after whole body irradiation. An order-of-magnitude increase in the proportion of bone marrow cells with chromosomal abnormalities was observed after irradiation at 2 Gy. Single vitamin preparations were not protective, while the combination of α-tocopherol (10 mg/kg) and ascorbic acid (20 mg/kg) displayed a protective effect evident from marked decrease in chromosomal aberrations. In animals treated with a combination of the vitamins only, substantial increases in the release of LMW DNA were observed. Conclusions: Radioprotective combination of α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid promotes apoptosis that is evident by release of low-molecular weight DNA into circulation. We hypothesize that the pretreatment with vitamins provides radioprotection, at least in part, by aiding non-inflammatory, apoptotic elimination of most damaged cells. The microevolutionary nature of observed adaptive response provides mechanistic foundation for the phenomenon of hormesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adjuvant Nutritional Intervention in Cancer (ANICA) was a clinical study carried out in Denmark in the 1990s with 32 typical patients with breast cancer, aged 32–81 yr and classified high risk because of tumor spread to the lymph nodes. The patients received standard therapy for their breast cancer, but got from the start additionally an adjuvant therapy in form of a cocktail consisting of vitamin C (2,850 mg/day), vitamin E (2,500 IU/day), beta-carotene (32.5 IU/day), selenium (Se; 387 micrograms/day), various other vitamins and essential trace elements, essential fatty acids (1.2 g gamma-linolenic acid/day and 3.5 g omega-3 PUFAs/day), and coenzyme Q10(CoQ10, 90 mg/day). The protocol was later changed, with reduction of the Se intake and more coenzyme Q10than when the study was started. The average survival of high-risk breast patients in the study was 50% after 5 yr, whereas for low-risk breast cancer patients (without metastases in the axilla when treatment was started), the average survival was 90% after ten years. The main investigator died, and the final report from the ANICA study was therefore never written. However, the published preliminary results from the trial were very promising; it seems, therefore, important to follow-up this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The topical application of a combination Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Ferulic acid serum following ablative fractional resurfacing has been reported to shorten post-procedure downtime and improve wound healing. However, transcutaneous drug delivery of cosmeceuticals initially meant for topical application have also been shown to have unintended side effects. The objective of our study was to report safety data from our single academic center experience consisting of patients treated with topical application of a vitamin C-containing cosmeceutical immediately following fractional ablative CO2 laser treatment with a focus on reportable side effects. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients at the University of Minnesota M Health Cosmetic Center who had fractional ablative CO2 (10,600 nm) laser procedure for any diagnosis followed by immediate one-time application of a combination serum containing 15% Vitamin C, 1% Vitamin E, and 0.5% Ferulic acid (C E Ferulic®, SkinCeuticals Inc., New York, NY) from Jan 1, 2015 to Dec 31, 2018 was performed. Pediatric and research opt-out patients were excluded. The medical records of these patients were manually reviewed for the following: age, sex, diagnosis, location, after-care instructions, antiviral and/or antibacterial prophylaxis use, and documentation of post-procedure side effects. Results: Thirty-three patients, encompassing a total of 45 treatment encounters, met inclusion criteria. There were ten cases of expected side effects: erythema (6), erythema with tenderness (1), erythema with mild bumpiness (1), skin peeling with pattern marking (1), and pain with slight bleeding (1). These were attributed to the normal post-procedure course and resolved without complications. There were no reported side effects related to the topical application of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Ferulic acid serum. Conclusions: The topical application of a Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Ferulic acid serum immediately following fractional ablative CO2 laser therapy did not result in associated complications. However, these results may not be generalizable to longer application courses beyond the immediate post-procedure time period, nor to other cosmeceutical formulations. More studies examining the safety profile of topical cosmeceutical serums in laser-assisted drug delivery are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the association between the activities of antioxidant enzymes and their metallic cofactors in rats treated with cisplatin. The antioxidant effects of aminoguanidine, and a combination of vitamins E and C were investigated. Plasma platin was significantly lower than liver and kidney. Cisplatin treatment caused significant increase in plasma Se-glutathione peroxidase activity. Activities of Se-glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, catalase and Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase have been found to be significantly decreased in liver and kidney compared to controls. Zn levels in these organs were diminished upon cisplatin treatment, while levels of Cu were unaffected. Interestingly, levels of iron, the cofactor of catalase, were found to be significantly increased in liver and kidney. Intervention with aminoguanidine or vitamins was generally prevented cisplatin-caused changes in the activity of enzymes and in the tissue levels of cofactor metals. These observations suggest that relation between activities of enzymes and levels of cofactor metals is multifactorial. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer affecting mostly people of Caucasian origin and is associated with high exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Antioxidants in the diet are thought to prevent UV-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress and laboratory-based studies have shown that high antioxidant intakes inhibit melanoma development. Corresponding epidemiological evidence is inconsistent, however. We therefore reviewed results from prospective observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to clarify whether consumption of antioxidant vitamin C, E (tocopherol), and A (retinol), carotenoids and selenium, as food, supplements, or both, or high fruit and vegetable intake, reduce the incidence of cutaneous melanoma. A total of 9 studies (2 cohort, 1 nested case-control, 6 RCTs) were included. Neither antioxidant nutrients, individually or combined, nor fruit and vegetable intake showed any strong and significant associations with melanoma, though the number of relevant studies was limited and several had methodological shortcomings. In particular, melanoma was not a primary disease outcome in any of the RCTs and therefore, none adequately accounted for potential confounding by sun exposure. In conclusion, available evidence is currently inadequate to assess possible beneficial effects of antioxidant intake on melanoma risk. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Some studies have considered the association between diet and uterine fibroid risk, but the issue is largely unsettled. To identify potential modifiable risk factors for fibroid development, we have herein systematically reviewed prior publications dealing with this aspect. Comprehensive searches in electronic databases were conducted to collect studies published on association between uterine leiomyomas and both nutrients and food groups. We identified 13 publications deriving from 4 case-control, 3 cross-sectional, and 4 cohort studies. A protective effect has been demonstrated for consumption of fruits and green vegetables in both case-control and cohort studies. Moreover, very recent cross-sectional and case-control studies evaluating serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3tend to indicate that vitamin D insufficiency, which may in part be due to the diet intake, may play an important role in the development of uterine fibroids. No association was found with the intake of fibers, vitamin C and E, phytoestrogens and carotenoids, whereas association was controversial for the consumption of meat, fish, dairy products, and vitamin A. Most data have also been discussed herein in light of the available experimental and animal model results. These findings may be useful in devising nutritional strategies to reduce leiomyoma risk in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this commentary was to discuss the last studies regarding the effect of antioxidant vitamins supplementation on oxidative stress in exercise in humans. The inclusion criteria encompassed published studies done in adult males and females between 2006 and 2013. The keywords used in the search engine were: endurance athlete, diet, oxidative stress, physical activity, diet, nutrition, antioxidant, antioxidant status, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene and combinations. Twelve studies were identified and organized according to the methodology and results of supplementation: ergogenic, ergolytic, partial or no difference between groups. The results of these studies showed no effect on physiological parameters and activity of antioxidant enzymes (n = 07), better response of the placebo treatment (ergolytic effect; n = 02), partial results (n = 01) and ergogenic results of antioxidant supplementation (n = 02). It is concluded that supplementation with antioxidant vitamins has controversial effects to oxidative damage induced by endurance exercise. The discordances among the studies are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During chick embryo development, there exists an antioxidant-oxidant balance in the tissues, which supports normal embryonic development and post-hatch chick viability. This balance is maintained by natural antioxidants including vitamins A, E, C and carotenoids, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Chick viability is an important factor in determining post-hatch health and profitability. Factors that interrupt growth and development during the embryonic period affect the overall performance and health during the post-hatch period. During the 21-day incubation period for chickens, antioxidant defence systems protect the embryo against the lipid peroxidation (LPO) derived from undesirable conditions. The purpose of this review is to explain the antioxidant mechanisms that contribute to chick embryo development resulting in a healthy hatchling. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: The present study was designed to determine the levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (vitamins C and E) in aqueous humor of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, aqueous humor of POAG ( n = 30) and PACG ( n = 30) patients was obtained. For control, aqueous humor of 30 age-matched cataract patients ( n = 30) was collected. Activities of antioxidant enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Results: A significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities was found in aqueous humor of POAG and PACG patients as compared to cataract patients ( p < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in catalase activity. The levels of vitamins C and E were significantly lower in the aqueous humor of POAG and PACG as compared to cataract patients ( p < 0.001). Conclusion: These results suggest that a significant increase in oxidative stress may play a role in the pathogenesis of POAG and PACG. Determination of oxidative stress in aqueous humor may help in understanding the course of this disease, and oxidative damage might be a relevant target for both prevention and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]