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Previously, some bacteria were shown to harbour enzymes capable of catalysing the oxidative cleavage of the double bond of t -anethole and related compounds. The cofactor dependence of these enzymes remained enigmatic due to a lack of biochemical information. We report on catalytic and structural details of a representative of this group of oxidative enzymes: t -anethole oxygenase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (TAO Sm). The bacterial enzyme could be recombinantly expressed and purified, enabling a detailed biochemical study that has settled the dispute on its cofactor dependence. We have established that TAO Sm contains a tightly bound b-type heme and merely depends on dioxygen for catalysis. It was found to accept t -anethole, isoeugenol and O-methyl isoeugenol as substrates, all being converted into the corresponding aromatic aldehydes without the need of any cofactor regeneration. The elucidated crystal structure of TAO Sm has revealed that it contains a unique active site architecture that is conserved for this distinct class of heme-containing bacterial oxygenases. Similar to other hemoproteins, TAO Sm has a histidine (His121) as proximal ligand. Yet, unique for TAOs, an arginine (Arg89) is located at the distal axial position. Site directed mutagenesis confirmed crucial roles for these heme-liganding residues and other residues that form the substrate binding pocket. In conclusion, the results reported here reveal a new class of bacterial heme-containing oxygenases that can be used for the cleavage of alkene double bonds, analogous to ozonolysis in organic chemistry. • Identification of a new class of heme-containing enzymes. • Cofactor-independent biocatalytic C C cleavage. • Crystal structure of a trans-anethole oxygenase. • Novel active site architecture of a heme-containing enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nrf2 is a master transcriptional regulator of a number of genes involved in the adaptive response to oxidative stress. Among the genes upregulated by Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has received significant attention, given that the products of HO-1-induced heme catabolism have well established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is evidenced in numerous models of inflammatory and autoimmune disease whereby induction of HO-1 expression or administration of tolerable amounts of HO-1 reaction products can ameliorate disease symptoms. Unsurprisingly, Nrf2 and HO-1 are now considered viable drug targets for a number of conditions. In recent years, the term 'inflammaging' has been used to describe the low-grade chronic inflammation observed in aging/aged cells. Increased oxidative stress is also a key factor associated with aging and there is convincing evidence that Nrf2, not only declines with age, but that Nrf2 and HO-1 can reduce cellular senescence and the senescenceassociated secretory phenotype (SASP) which is now considered an underlying driver of age-related inflammatory disease. In this review, we describe the role of oxidative stress in 'inflammaging' and highlight the potential anti-aging properties of the Nrf2-HO-1 system. We also highlight established and newly emerging Nrf2 activators and their therapeutic application in age-related disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a liver pathology concomitant with metabolic disarrangement. This study assessed the therapeutic impacts of delphinidin, an anthocyanin, or α‐amyrin, a pentacyclic triterpenoid, on NAFLD in rats and the underlying mechanisms involved. NAFLD was established by feeding a high‐fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks, either alone or in combination with delphinidin (40 mg/kg, oral) or α‐amyrin (20 mg/kg, oral). Delphinidin or α‐amyrin ameliorated the metabolic and histopathological perturbations induced by HFD. These compounds markedly attenuated NAFLD‐induced hepatic steatosis, as evidenced by a substantial decrease in body weight, insulin resistance, and liver and adipose tissue indices. Alongside normalization of the atherogenic index, both improved HFD‐mediated abnormalities in serum lipids, liver enzymes, leptin, and ghrelin levels. Moreover, their intervention activated the NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2 and heme oxygenase 1 pathways and abrogated HFD‐triggered activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 signaling. These remedies inhibited hepatic apoptosis and modulated the gene expression of lipogenic enzymes. Furthermore, histological analysis corroborated the suppression of lipid accumulation and amelioration of hepatic architecture in the treated rats. Our findings highlight the hepatoprotective value of delphinidin or α‐amyrin against NAFLD and related metabolic diseases through their insulin‐sensitizing, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions affecting the yield of EUPS (Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharide) were analyzed using a Box-Behnken response surface design. The alleviation effect of EUPS on diquat-induced oxidative stress in mice was also studied. A maximum EUPS yield of 2.60% was obtained under the following optimized conditions: an extraction temperature of 63 °C, extraction time of 1 h, and ratio of liquid to raw materials of 22:1. EUPS exhibited strong 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging ability (87.05%), 2′-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) radical-scavenging ability (101.17%), and hydroxyl radical-scavenging ability (62.92%). The administration of EUPS increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase and decreased malondialdehyde levels in the livers of mice exposed to diquat. EUPS may inhibit the downregulation of NAD(P)H:quinoneoxidoreductase 1 and heme oxygenase 1 mRNA expression in the livers of diquat-administered mice through the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, the abundance of Firmicutes and Ligilactobacillus was enhanced, whereas that of Helicobacter decreased in the gut of the remaining groups of mice compared with that of the diquat-treated mice. Therefore, EUPS exhibited an antioxidant effect and improved oxidative stress and intestinal flora abundance in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundObjectiveMaterials and methodsResultsConclusionsAzithromycin is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drug widely used for the treatment of various diseases, including those caused by atypical pathogens, bacterial or viral infections, chronic sinusitis, and bronchial asthma, particularly in pediatric patients. However, concerns have emerged regarding its hepatotoxicity and its precise mechanism of action remains unclear.To investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for azithromycin-induced acute liver injury to advance our understanding of the progression and pathogenesis of antibiotic-induced liver damage, and to improve prevention and treatment strategies.C57BL/6 mice, Nrf2-/- mice, and primary hepatocytes were used. Primary hepatocytes from mice were isolated using a two-step perfusion method and cultured in vitro via the ‘sandwich’ culture model.The exposure to azithromycin resulted in increased apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. In mouse models, intraperitoneal administration of azithromycin at varying concentrations and time points substantially induced hepatic disarray, swelling, and dysfunction. Azithromycin markedly upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of phosphorylated adenosine-activated protein kinase (AMPK) while downregulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and NADPH: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1). Moreover, HO-1 and NQO-1 protein levels remained largely unaffected in primary hepatocytes co-cultured with azithromycin in Nrf2-/- mice.Our findings suggest that azithromycin-induced acute liver injury is mediated by suppression of Nrf2 activation and ROS production. This sheds light on the potential mechanisms involved in azithromycin-induced liver damage, underscoring the importance of exploring targeted interventions to mitigate the hepatotoxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: This study aims to explore the protective role of JB-V-60—a novel synthetic derivative of decur-sin—against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. Methods: We examined the effects of JB-V-60 on heme oxygenase (HO)-1, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in LPS-activated human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs). Additionally, we assessed its effects on iNOS, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-1β in LPS-exposed mice. Results: JB-V-60 enhanced HO-1 levels, inhibited NF-κB activation, reduced COX-2/PGE2 and iNOS/NO concentra-tions, and lowered phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1. It also promoted the translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus, allowing its binding to antioxidant response elements and resulting in reduced IL-1β in LPS-stimulated HPAECs. The reduction in iNOS/NO levels by JB-V-60 was reversed when HO-1 was inhibited via RNAi. In the animal model, JB-V-60 sig-nificantly decreased iNOS expression in lung tissues and TNF-α levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Conclusions: These findings highlight the anti-inflammatory effects of JB-V-60 and its potential as a treat-ment for inflammatory disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in individuals worldwide. Cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI) typically results in severe secondary injury and complications following reperfusion therapy. Microglia play critical roles in the inflammatory reaction of CIRI. However, less attention has been given to microglial death in this process. Our study aims to explore microglial death in CIRI and the effects and mechanism of minocycline treatment on microglia. Methods: A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was applied to induce CIRI in rats. At 0 h, 24 h and 48 h post-operation, rats were intraperitoneally injected with 45 mg/kg minocycline. Neurological deficit scoring, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, assessment of activated microglia and examination of mitochondrial structure were conducted and checked at 72 h after reperfusion. Additionally, an in vitro model of oxygen–glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model was established. BV-2 cells were treated with various pharmacological inhibitors of cell death or minocycline. Cell viability, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial structure and function, and labile Fe2+ and ferroptosis-associated gene/protein levels were measured. Hemin was used for further validation after transcriptome analysis. Results: In the MCAO and OGD/R models, ferroptosis was identified as a major form of microglial death. Minocycline inhibited microglia ferroptosis by reducing HO-1 expression. In addition, minocycline improved mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial structures and microglial survival in vivo. Minocycline also decreased labile Fe2+ levels, lipid peroxidation, and expression of ferritin heavy chain (FTH) and it improved mitochondrial structure and function in vitro. Upregulation of HO-1 counteracted the protective effect of minocycline. Conclusion: Ferroptosis is a major form of microglial death in CIRI. The protective mechanism of minocycline in CIRI partially hinges on its ability to effectively ameliorate microglia ferroptosis by downregulating HO-1 expression. Consequently, targeting microglia ferroptosis is a promising treatment for CIRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Alternative transcription start sites (TSS) are widespread in eukaryotes and can alter the 5′ UTR length and coding potential of transcripts. Here we show that inorganic phosphate (Pi) availability regulates the usage of several alternative TSS in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). In comparison to phytohormone treatment, Pi had a pronounced and specific effect on the usage of many alternative TSS. By combining short‐read RNA sequencing with long‐read sequencing of full‐length mRNAs, we identified a set of 45 genes showing alternative TSS under Pi deficiency. Alternative TSS affected several processes, such as translation via the exclusion of upstream open reading frames present in the 5′ UTR of RETICULAN LIKE PROTEIN B1 mRNA, and subcellular localization via removal of the plastid transit peptide coding region from the mRNAs of HEME OXYGENASE 1 and SULFOQUINOVOSYLDIACYLGLYCEROL 2. Several alternative TSS also generated shorter transcripts lacking the coding potential for important domains. For example, the EVOLUTIONARILY CONSERVED C‐TERMINAL REGION 4 (ECT4) locus, which encodes an N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) reader, strongly expressed under Pi deficiency a short noncoding transcript (named ALTECT4) ~550 nt long with a TSS in the penultimate intron. The specific and robust induction of ALTECT4 production by Pi deficiency led to the identification of a role for m6A readers in primary root growth in response to low phosphate that is dependent on iron and is involved in modulating cell division in the root meristem. Our results identify alternative TSS usage as an important process in the plant response to Pi deficiency. Significance Statement: Analysis of the alternative transcription start site (TSS) usage landscape revealed that phosphate deficiency induces the use of numerous alternative TSS in Arabidopsis, generating variant transcripts that have enhanced translation potential or encode truncated proteins with altered subcellular localization or domain composition. Phosphate deficiency resulted in the generation of a short noncoding RNA at the ECT4 locus, leading to the observation that ECT4 and its paralogs function in the response of roots to phosphate deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of tauopathy that usually occursduring aging and unfolded protein response (UPR), oxidative stress and autophagy play a crucialrole in tauopathy-induced neurotoxicity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects oftauopathy on normal brain aging in a Drosophila model of AD. Method: We investigated the interplay between aging (10, 20, 30, and 40 days) and human tauR406W (htau)-induced cell stress in transgenic fruit flies. Results: Tauopathy caused significant defects in eye morphology, a decrease in motor function and olfactory memory performance (after 20 days), and an increase in ethanol sensitivity (after 30 days). Our results showed a significant increase in UPR (GRP78 and ATF4), redox signalling (p-Nrf2, total GSH, total SH, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant activity), and regulatory associated protein of mTOR complex 1 (p-Raptor) activity in the control group after 40 days, while the tauopathy model flies showed an advanced increase in the above markers at 20 days of age. Interestingly, only the control flies showed reduced autophagy by a significant decrease in the autophagosome formation protein (dATG1)/p-Raptor ratio at 40 days of age. Our results were also confirmed by bioinformatic analysis of microarray data from tauPS19 transgenic mice (3, 6, 9, and 12 months), in which tauopathy increased expression of heme oxygenase 1, and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit and promote aging in transgenic animals. Conclusions: Overall, we suggest that the neuropathological effects of tau aggregates may be accelerated brain aging, where redox signaling and autophagy efficacy play an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Luteolin is a flavonoid chemical that exists in a variety of medicinal and edible plants and holds many biologically active properties in liver protection, anti-cancer, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, etc. According to its hepatoprotective properties, luteolin was selected to co-treat with sorafenib, one of the approved protein kinase inhibitors, to reduce sorafenib-induced normal liver cell damage. Methods: The BRL-3A cell line was treated with sorafenib to establish a liver injury model, followed by luteolin treatment. The cell viability was detected, and the mechanism of action was detected by immunofluorescence, western blotting, and real-time quantitative PCR. Results: The research findings demonstrated that luteolin could increase cystine/glutamate transporter xCT (SLC7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression and display a chelating effect on iron, which led to increased glutathione and decreased malondialdehyde, Fe2+ and lipid reactive oxygen species contents in BRL-3A cells, and the sorafenib-induced mitochondrial membrane potential decrease was also inhibited. In addition, when sorafenib caused the accumulation of lipid reactive oxygen species, luteolin could help release this oxidative stress by activating nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and up-regulating the expression of the associated genes heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). Conclusion: Therefore, luteolin may ameliorate sorafenib-induced ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2-associated pathway without any impact on sorafenib anti-cancer activity. It can be used as an adjuvant to sorafenib to reduce liver injury in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian sand dust (ASD), generated from the deserts of China and Mongolia, affects Korea and Japan during spring and autumn, causing harmful effects on various bio-organs, including the respiratory system, due to its irritants such as fine dust, chemicals, and toxic materials. Here, we investigated the therapeutic effects of silibinin against ASD-induced airway inflammation using mouse macrophage-like cell line RAW264.7 and a murine model. ASD was intranasally administered to mice three times a week and silibinin was administered for 6 days by oral gavage. In ASD-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, silibinin treatment decreased tumor necrosis factor-α production and reduced the expression of p-p65NF-κB, p-p38, and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, while increasing heme oxygenase (HO)-1 expression. In ASD-exposed mice, silibinin administration reduced inflammatory cell count and cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in lung tissue. Additionally, silibinin lowered oxidative stress, as evidenced by decreased 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosin (8-OHdG) expression and increased HO-1 expression. The expression of inflammatory-related proteins, including p-p65NF-κB, COX-2, and p-p38, was markedly reduced by silibinin administration. Overall, silibinin treatment reduced the expression of p-p65NF-κB, COX-2, and p-p38 in response to ASD exposure, while increasing HO-1 expression both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that silibinin mitigates pulmonary inflammation caused by ASD exposure by reducing inflammatory signaling and oxidative stress, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for ASD-induced pulmonary inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrobium officinale flowers (DOF) have previously been established as a promising source of natural antioxidants, and it is ideally suited for processing to prepare functional foods and food additives. The precise extraction processes employed, however, can alter the composition and antioxidant properties of the resultant products, and the characteristic compounds associated with the active fractions prepared from DOF or their mechanisms of action have yet to be reported. To clarify the molecular mechanisms through which these active fractions function for the first time, chromatography was used to separate DOF extracts, yielding five fractions (Fr. (a—e)). Analyses of the antioxidant activity for these different fractions revealed that Fr. (d) presented with the most robust bioactivity. Levels of total flavonoids were then measured, revealing that antioxidant activity levels were positively correlated with total flavonoid content. Fr. (d) was found to contain 20 flavonoids in HPLC-Triple-TOF-MS/MS analyses. At the cellular level, Fr. (d) was found to induce increases in the levels of protective antioxidant factors (SOD and GSH-Px) while reducing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), damage-associated factors (MDA, NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in C2C12 cells that had been stimulated with H2O2. These data thus provided support for Fr. (d) prevention of oxidative stress and inflammation. Network pharmacology analyses further suggested that Fr. (d) can help protect against oxidative stress through its effects on PI3K/Akt-related signaling activity. Fr. (d) was subsequently found to upregulate PI3K/Akt pathway-related proteins, nuclear transcription factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in addition to suppressing Kelch-like epoxide-related protein 1 (Keap1) expression. In summary, Fr. (d) was found to suppress PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway activation, ultimately alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress as predicted with a network pharmacology approach. Future studies aimed at clarifying the composition and mechanistic activity of DOF Fr. (d) will likely help establish it as a functional food capable of promoting health and longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study explores the anti-inflammatory properties of lupeol, a notable phytosterol found in various medicinal plants, highlighting its potential as a candidate for new drug development. We examined the effects of lupeol on heme oxygenase (HO)-1, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), as well as its impact on inflammatory markers in the lung tissues of LPS-challenged mice. Lupeol treatment enhanced HO-1 production, inhibited nuclear factor (NF)-κB activity, and reduced levels of COX-2/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and iNOS/nitric oxide (NO). In addition, lupeol decreased the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT-1) and promoted the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), enhancing its binding to the anti-oxidant response element (ARE) and subsequently reducing interleukin (IL)-1β expression. In vivo, lupeol significantly lowered iNOS expression and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from LPS-treated mice. These findings suggest that lupeol exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by modulating key signaling pathways, positioning it as a promising candidate for the development of novel therapeutics targeting pathological inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pancreatic cancer, the tumor microenvironment (TME) accounts for up to 90% of the tumor mass. Pancreatitis, characterized by the increased infiltration of macrophages into the pancreas, is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. The NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) transcription factor regulates responses to oxidative stress and can promote cancer and chemoresistance. NRF2 also attenuates inflammation through the regulation of macrophage-specific genes. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) is expressed by anti-inflammatory macrophages to degrade heme, and its expression is dependent on NRF2 translocation to the nucleus. In macrophages stimulated with conditioned media from pancreatic cancer cells, HO-1 protein levels increased, which correlated with higher NRF2 expression in the nuclear fraction. Significant differences in macrophage infiltration and HO-1 expression were detected in LSL-KrasG12D/+; Pdx-1-Cre (KC) mice, Nrf2 whole-body knockout (KO) mice and wildtype mice with pancreatitis. Since epigenetic modulation is a mechanism used by tumors to regulate the TME, using small molecules as epigenetic modulators to activate immune recognition is therapeutically desirable. When the bromodomain inhibitor I-BET-762 was used to treat macrophages or mice with pancreatitis, high levels of HO-1 were reduced. This study shows that bromodomain inhibitors can be used to prevent physiological responses to inflammation that promote tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microglia are macrophage cells residing in the brain, where they exert a key role in neuronal protection. Through the gut–brain axis, metabolites produced by gut commensal microbes can influence brain functions, including microglial activity. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key regulator of the oxidative stress response in microglia, controlling the expression of cytoprotective genes. Lactobacilli-derived cell-free supernatants (CFSs) are postbiotics that have shown antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects in several in vitro and in vivo studies. This study aimed to explore the effects of lactobacilli CFSs on modulating microglial responses against oxidative stress and inflammation. HMC3 microglia were exposed to lipopolysaccaride (LPS), as an inflammatory trigger, before and after administration of CFSs from three human gut probiotic species. The NRF2 nuclear protein activation and the expression of NRF2-controlled antioxidant genes were investigated by immunoassay and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively. Furthermore, the level of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines was evaluated by immunoassay. All CFSs induced a significant increase of NRF2 nuclear activity in basal conditions and upon inflammation. The transcription of antioxidant genes, namely heme oxygenase 1, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase also increased, especially after inflammatory stimulus. Besides, higher SOD1 activity was detected relative to inflamed microglia. In addition, CFSs pre-treatment of microglia attenuated pro-inflammatory TNF-α levels while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels. These findings confirmed that gut microorganisms' metabolites can play a relevant role in adjuvating the microglia cellular response against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which are known to cause neurodegenerative diseases. Gut-brain crosstalk: molecular point of view. Metabolites contained in the supernatant derived from Lactobacilli can cross the gut barrier and reach the central nervous system, where they are taken up by microglial cells. They induce the activation of the NRF2 pathway and the production of inflammatory mediators. This interaction attenuates two important events: oxidation (with high levels of NRF2) and inflammation (with high levels of IL-10 and low levels of TNF-α). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Rhamnolipids (RLS) are surfactants that improve the growth performance of poultry by improving the absorption of nutrients. This study aims to investigate the effects of RLS replacement of chlortetracycline (CTC) on growth performance, slaughtering traits, meat quality, antioxidant function and nuclear‐factor‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway in broilers. A total of 600 one‐day‐old Arbor Acres chicks were randomly assigned to five groups with eight replicates in each group, raised for 42 days. Broilers were respectively fed a basal diet with no CTC or RLS, 75 mg kg−1 CTC, and 250, 500, 1000 mg kg−1 RLS.Dietary supplementation with RLS linearly increased the average daily gain, average daily feed intake, carcass yield, eviscerated yield, ether extract, enhanced total superoxide and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, overexpressed the relative expressions of Nrf2, heme oxygenase 1, Copper/zinc superoxide dismutase, Manganese superoxide dismutase, GPx and catalase and decreased the lightness value at 24 h, drip loss and malondialdehyde contents of broilers (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, broilers fed 1000 mg kg−1 RLS reduced the drip loss and broilers fed 500 mg kg−1 RLS increased muscle crude fat content (P < 0.05). Compared with the CTC group, dietary supplementation with 1000 mg kg−1 RLS increased eviscerated yield (P < 0.05).RLS could improve growth performance, crude fat content, meat quality and antioxidant capacity and activate relative expression of genes in the Nrf2 signaling pathway in broilers. It could be used as an antibiotic substitute in diets and the recommended supplemental dose of RLS in feed of broilers is 1000 mg kg−1. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To discuss the effect of fluid resuscitation on the occurrence of ferroptosis in vascular tissue and the structure of vascular cells in the rats with blast injury complicated with hemorrhagic shock, and to clarify its mechanism. Methods: A total of 54 healthy adult SD rats were randomly divided into normal group, blast injury complicated with hemorrhagic shock (model) group, and the fluid resuscitation (treatment) group, and there were 18 rats in each group. Among them, 10 rats were randomly selected to observe the surival status and another 8 rats were selected to detect the other indexes. The average survival time(ST), 24 h and 72 h survival rates of the rats in various groups were observed; the blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR) of the rats in various groups were observed ; the levels of serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), lactate (LAC), glucose (GLU), iron ions, glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in serum of the rats in various groups were detected; Western blotting method was used to detect the expression levels of ferroptosis marker proteins glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and heme oxygenase 1(HO-1) proteins in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in various groups; the pathomorphology of the superior mesenteric artery of the rats in various groups was observed. Results: All the rats in normal group survived for 72 h, while the longest ST of the rats in model group did not exceed 9 h. Compared with model group, the ST and 24 h survival rate (SR) of the rats in treatment group were significantly increased (P<0. 05). Compared with normal group, the BP, HR, and RR of the rats in model group were significantly decreased (P<0. 01). Compared with model group, the BP, HR, and RR of the rats in treatment group were significantly increased after fluid resuscitation (P< 0. 05). Compared with normal group, the activities of AST and ALT, and the levels of Scr and BUN in serum of the rats in model group were significantly increased (P<0. 01). Compared with model group, the serum levels of LAC and GLU of the rats in treatment group were significantly decreased (P<0. 01). Compared with normal group, the concentration of iron ion, GSH level, MDA level, LDH activity in serum of the rats in model group were significantly increased (P<0. 05); compared with model group, the concentration of iron ion and LDH activity in serum of the rats in treatment group was significantly decreased (P<0. 01). Compared with normal group, the expression levels of GPX4 and SLC7A11 in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in model group were significantly decreased (P<0. 05); compared with model group, the expression levels of GPX4 and SLC7A11 in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in treatment group were significantly increased (P<0. 05). Compared with normal group, the expression level of HO-1 protein in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in model group was increased (P<0. 01); compared with model group, the expression level of HO-1 protein in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in treatment group was increased (P<0. 01).The microscopic pathology results showed that the cell arrangement in the layers of the superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in model group was disordered, the swelling was significant and the thickness was increased; the pathological changes in superior mesenteric artery tissue of the rats in treatment group was alleviated. The ultramicroscopic pathology results showed that the endothelial cell structure of blood vessels of the rats in normal group was intact, and there was no swelling in the subendothelial matrix; the vascular endothelial cell membrane of the rats in model group was damaged, there were cytoplasmic dissolution and fragmentation, and the swelling of the subendothelial matrix was significant; the swelling of the vascular endothelial cells in treatment group was alleviated. Conclusion: Ferroptosis occurs in vascular tissue of the rats with blast injury complicated with hemorrhagic shock, and fluid resuscitation can alleviate the structural damage of the vascular cells by inhibiting the vascular tissue ferroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is associated with increased oxidative stress, leading to altered tight junction formation and increased apoptosis in colonic epithelial cells. These changes may lead to intestinal barrier dysfunction and corresponding gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with diabetes, including diarrhea. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect and mechanism of Resolvin D1 (RvD1) on diabetes‐induced oxidative stress and barrier disruption in the colon. Mice with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes were treated with RvD1 for 2 weeks, then evaluated for stool frequency, stool water content, gut permeability, and colonic transepithelial electrical resistance as well as production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, and expression of tight junction proteins Zonula Occludens 1 (ZO‐1) and occludin. The same parameters were assessed in human colonoid cultures subjected to elevated glucose. We found that RvD1 treatment did not affect blood glucose, but normalized stool water content and prevented intestinal barrier dysfunction, epithelial oxidative stress, and apoptosis. RvD1 also restored ZO‐1 and occludin expression in diabetic mice. RvD1 treatment increased phosphorylation of Akt and was accompanied by a 3.5‐fold increase in heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) expression in the epithelial cells. The protective effects of RvD1 were blocked by ZnPP, a competitive inhibitor of HO‐1. Similar findings were observed in RvD1‐treated human colonoid cultures subjected to elevated glucose. In conclusion, Oxidative stress in diabetes results in mucosal barrier dysfunction, contributing to the development of diabetic diarrhea. Resolvins prevent ROS‐mediated mucosal injury and protect gut barrier function by intracellular PI3K/Akt activation and subsequent HO‐1 upregulation in intestinal epithelial cells. These actions result in normalizing stool frequency and stool water content in diabetic mice, suggesting that resolvins may be useful in the treatment of diabetic diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bilirubin (BR) is an important ingredient of a valuable Chinese medicine, Calculus bovis. Over recent decades, increasing evidence has confirmed that BR offers health benefits in cardiovascular health, stroke, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. However, BR is mainly produced by extraction from pig bile. In this study, we assembled an efficient pathway for BR production by metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli. First, heme oxygenase (HO1) and biliverdin reductase were co-expressed in E. coli. HPLC and LC–MS confirmed the accumulation of BR in the recombinant E. coli cells. To improve BR production, the catalytic abilities of HO1 from different species were investigated. In addition, the outermembrane-bound heme receptor (ChuA) and the enzymes involved in heme biosynthesis were overexpressed among which ChuA, 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (HemB), protoporphyrin oxidase (HemG), and ferrochelatase (HemH) were found to enhance BR accumulation in E. coli. In addition, expression of ferredoxin (Fd) was shown to contribute to efficient conversion of heme to BR in E. coli. To increase supply of NADPH, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), NAD kinase (nadK), NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase (gdhA), and glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (ZWF) were overexpressed and were found to enhance BR accumulation when these proteins were expressed with a low-copy plasmid pACYCduet-1. Modular optimization of the committed genes led to a titer of 17.2 mg/L in strain M1BHG. Finally, fed-batch fermentation was performed for the strains M1BHG and M1, resulting in accumulation of 75.5 mg/L and 25.8 mg/L of BR, respectively. This is the first report on biosynthesis of BR through metabolic engineering in a heterologous host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitric oxide synthases (NOSs), a family of flavo-hemoproteins with relatively rigid domains linked by flexible regions, require optimal FMN domain docking to the heme domain for efficient interdomain electron transfer (IET). To probe the FMN-heme interdomain docking, the magnetic dipole interactions between the FMN semiquinone radical (FMNH•) and the low-spin ferric heme centers in oxygenase/FMN (oxyFMN) constructs of neuronal and inducible NOS (nNOS and iNOS, respectively) were measured using the relaxation-induced dipolar modulation enhancement (RIDME) technique. The FMNH• RIDME data were analyzed using the mesoscale Monte Carlo calculations of conformational distributions of NOS, which were improved to account for the native degrees of freedom of the amino acid residues constituting the flexible interdomain tethers. This combined computational and experimental analysis allowed for the estimation of the stabilization energies and populations of the docking complexes of calmodulin (CaM) and the FMN domain with the heme domain. Moreover, combining the five-pulse and scaled four-pulse RIDME data into a single trace has significantly reduced the uncertainty in the estimated docking probabilities. The obtained FMN—heme domain docking energies for nNOS and iNOS were similar (-3.8 kcal/mol), in agreement with the high degree of conservation of the FMN—heme domain docking interface between the NOS isoforms. In spite of the similar energetics, the FMN—heme domain docking probabilities in nNOS and iNOS oxyFMN were noticeably different (~ 0.19 and 0.23, respectively), likely due to differences in the lengths of the FMN—heme interdomain tethers and the docking interface topographies. The analysis based on the IET theory and RIDME experiments indicates that the variations in conformational dynamics may account for half of the difference in the FMN—heme IET rates between the two NOS isoforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate roles of brain carbon monoxide (CO), an endogenous gasotransmitter, in regulation of the rat micturition reflex. Methods: In urethane‐anesthetized (0.8 g/kg, ip) male rats, evaluation of urodynamic parameters was started 1 h before intracerebroventricular administration of CORM‐3 (CO donor) or ZnPP (non‐selective inhibitor of heme oxygenase, a CO producing enzyme) and continued for 2 h after the administration. We also investigated effects of centrally pretreated SR95531 (GABAA receptor antagonist) or SCH50911 (GABAB receptor antagonist) on the CORM‐3‐induced response. Results: CORM‐3 significantly prolonged intercontraction intervals (ICIs) without changing maximal voiding pressure (MVP), while ZnPP significantly shortened ICI and reduced single‐voided volume and bladder capacity without affecting MVP, post‐voided residual volume, or voiding efficiency. The ZnPP‐induced ICI shortening was reversed by CORM‐3. The CORM‐3‐induced ICI prolongation was significantly attenuated by centrally pretreated SR95531 or SCH50911, respectively. Conclusions: Brain CO can suppress the rat micturition reflex through brain γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination is an alarming concern on a global scale, as drinking tainted water significantly increases human susceptibility to heavy metals. In a realistic scenario, humans are often exposed to a combination of harmful chemicals rather than a single toxicant. Phloretin (PHL), biochanin‐A (BCA), and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are bioactive compounds owning plentiful pharmacological properties. Henceforth, the current research explored the putative energizing effects of selected nutraceuticals in combined chromium (Cr) and arsenic (As) intoxicated Swiss albino mice. Potassium dichromate (75 ppm) and sodium meta‐arsenite (100 ppm) were given in the drinking water to induce hepatotoxicity, conjugated with PHL and BCA (50 mg/kg each), and CoQ10 (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. After the statistical evaluation, it was observed that the hepato‐somatic index, metal load, and antioxidant activity (lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content) increased along with the concomitant decrease in the antioxidants (catalase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and total thiol) in the Cr and As intoxicated mice. Additionally, light microscopy observations, DNA breakages, decreased silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase (HO‐1), and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) gene expressions, together with stimulated apoptotic cell death manifested by the increased expressions of caspase 8 and caspase 3, thus, proved consistency with the aforementioned outcomes. Importantly, the treatment with nutraceuticals not only restored the antioxidant activity but also favorably altered the expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, HO‐1, and NQO1 signaling and apoptosis markers. These findings highlight the crucial role of the PHL, BCA, and CoQ10 combination in reducing Cr and As‐induced hepatotoxicity in mice. By averting the triggered apoptosis in conjunction with oxidative stress, this combination increases the SIRT1, Nrf2, HO‐1, and NQO1 signaling, thereby reassuringly maintaining the cellular equilibrium. Highlights: Chromium and arsenic are the two major heavy metals that pose a significant threat to living beings by altering the biochemical equilibrium.Exposure to combined Cr + As for 2 weeks led to the generation of free radicals resulting in the damage of liver tissue.Treatment with natural bioactive compounds (PHL, BCA, and CoQ10) impeded the Cr + As‐induced hepatic toxicity by scavenging the free radicals and reducing the triggered oxidative stress together with preventing the dysfunctioning of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 and caspase cascade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an alarming ailment that leads to severe liver damage and increases the risk of serious health conditions. The prevalence of NAFLD due to oxidative stress could be mitigated by plant‐derived antioxidants. This study aims to investigate the effects of syringic acid (SA) on NAFLD in a high‐fat diet (HFD) rat model. Twenty‐four rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6): normal control, HFD, SA‐administered HFD, and positive control SA on a normal diet. Rats in the normal control and positive control groups received a normal diet, and the remaining groups received an HFD for 8 weeks. SA (20 mg/kg b.w.) was orally (gavage) administered for 8 weeks. Lipid profiles were controlled by SA against HFD‐fed rats (p < 0.05). SA reduced the serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels by 70%–190%. SA also suppressed pro‐inflammatory cytokines and attenuated histopathological and immunohistochemical changes against HFD‐fed rats. SA reversed oxidative stress by suppressing the malondialdehyde formation by 82% and replenished the nonenzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activities (p < 0.05). Gene expressions of nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO‐1) were elevated in SA‐treated rats. Ameliorative effects of SA on NAFLD induced by an HFD in rats were prominent through the reversal of oxidative stress and inflammation, regulated by an intrinsic mechanism of defense against oxidative stress, the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream effector heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) are commonly activated in response to cellular stresses. The elevated expression of HO-1 has been associated with markedly accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a naturally occurring dietary Nrf2/HO-1 activator—sulforaphane (SFN)—on regeneration in a murine sciatic nerve crush model. The beneficial safety profile of SFN has been thoroughly investigated and confirmed several times. Here, SFN was administered daily, starting immediately after C57BL/6 mice were subjected to sciatic nerve crush injury. Injured sciatic nerves were excised at various time points post injury for molecular, immunohistochemical and morphometric analyses. Moreover, functional assessment was performed by grip strength analysis and electrophysiology. Following SFN treatment, the early response to injury includes a modulation of autophagic pathways and marked upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 expression. This enhancement of HO-1 expression was maintained throughout the regeneration phase and accompanied by a significant increase in repair Schwann cells. In these cells, elevated proliferation rates were observed. Significant improvements in grip strength test performance, nerve conduction velocity and remyelination were also noted following SFN treatment. Collectively, SFN modulates cytoprotective and autophagic pathways in the injured nerve, increasing the number of repair Schwann cells and contributing to effective nerve regeneration. Given the availability of SFN as a nutritional supplement, this compound might constitute a novel regenerative approach with broad patient accessibility and further studies on this topic are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigates the intricate role of Heme Oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) in ovarian cancer, emphasizing its prognostic significance, influence on immune cell infiltration, and impact on the malignant characteristics of primary ovarian cancer cells. Materials and methods: Our research began with an analysis of HMOX1 expression and its prognostic implications using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset, supported by immunohistochemical staining. Further analyses encompassed co-expression studies, Gene Ontology (GO) annotations, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment. We utilized the TIMER and TISIDB platforms to evaluate the immunotherapeutic potential of HMOX1. Additionally, in vitro studies that involved modulating HMOX1 levels in primary ovarian cancer cells were conducted to confirm its biological functions. Results: Our findings indicate a significant overexpression of HMOX1 in ovarian cancer, which correlates with increased tumor malignancy and poorer prognosis. HMOX1 was shown to significantly modulate the infiltration of immune cells, particularly neutrophils and macrophages. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that HMOX1 is predominantly expressed in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), with a positive correlation to chemokines and their receptors. An increase in HMOX1 levels was associated with heightened levels of immunoinhibitors, immunostimulators, and MHC molecules. Functional assays demonstrated that HMOX1 knockdown promotes apoptosis, attenuating cell proliferation and invasion, while its overexpression yields opposing effects. Conclusion: HMOX1 emerges as a critical therapeutic target, intricately involved in immunomodulation, prognosis, and the malignant behavior of ovarian cancer. This highlights HMOX1 as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in the fight against ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate prediction of the recovery of Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) is of paramount significance for clinicians and families. Serum total bilirubin (TBIL) formed by activation of heme oxygenase 2, is associated with incidence and prognosis of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, studies that based TBIL and DoC are limited. The study attempted to examine the association between serum TBIL levels and prognosis in patients with DoC. One hundred and sixty-eight patients with DoC in the Second hospital of Shandong University from June 2021 to June 2023 were recruited. The clinical characteristics and venous blood samples were collected within 24 h after admission. The diagnosis of DoC was determined by two skilled investigators employing various behavioral evaluations along the coma recovery scale-revised (CRS-R) and the investigators conducted follow-up assessments of diagnosis at 1, 3, and 6 months after admission. For statistical analysis, we categorized patients with an improvement in clinical diagnosis from study entry as having a "good outcome". In total, 139 individuals enrolled in the study. The median TBIL level was 8.2 μmol/L. Good recovery of DoC at 1, 3, and 6 months occurred in 25 (18.0%), 41 (29.5%), and 56 (40.3%) patients, respectively. After full adjustment, a significant association was found between TBIL levels and the prognosis of DoC at 1, 3, and 6 months. When TBIL levels were analyzed as categorical variables, an increasing trend in the tertiles of TBIL levels demonstrated a significant positive association with the recovery of DoC at 1, 3, and 6 months. Stratified analysis revealed that the association between serum TBIL levels and the recovery of DoC remained consistent across different sub-populations. A high serum TBIL level is associated with an improved likelihood of recovery of DoC. Additional research is required to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological causal association between TBIL levels and DoC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, a multifaceted pathological process, occurs when the prolongation of reperfusion duration triggers ferroptosis-mediated myocardial damage. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a single flavonoid from licorice, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological impacts, but its function in ferroptosis caused by myocardial I/R injury remains unclear. This study delved into the protective effect of ISL on myocardial I/R injury-induced ferroptosis and its mechanism. Neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes (NMCM) underwent hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) to simulate the pathological process of myocardial I/R. ISL significantly attenuated H/R-triggered production of reactive oxygen species in NMCM, reduced the expression of malondialdehyde and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase, enhanced superoxide dismutase and catalase activity, and increased the expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), thereby mitigating oxidative stress damage. CCK8 experiment revealed that the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 significantly improved myocardial cell viability after 24 h of reoxygenation, and ISL treatment showed a similar effect. ISL reduced intracellular free iron accumulation, up-regulated glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) expression, and inhibited lipid peroxidation accumulation, thereby alleviating ferroptosis. The Nrf2-specific inhibitor ML385 counteracted ISL's defensive role against H/R-triggered oxidative stress damage and ferroptosis. In vivo experiments further confirmed that by regulating the translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus, ISL treatment increased the levels of HO-1, GPX4, and SLC7A11, inhibited the expression of ACSL4, Drp1 to exert the antioxidant role, alleviated mitochondrial damage, and ferroptosis, ultimately reducing myocardial infarction area and injury induced by I/R. ML385 nearly abolished ISL's protective impact on the I/R model by inhibiting Nrf2 function. In summary, ISL is capable of mitigating oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and cardiomyocyte ferroptosis caused by I/R, thereby reducing myocardial injury. A key mechanism includes triggering the Nrf2/HO-1/SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway to prevent oxidative stress damage and cardiomyocyte ferroptosis caused by I/R. [Display omitted] • Isoliquiritigenin mitigates myocardial oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage induced by I/R. • Cardiomyocyte ferroptosis has an essential role in mediating myocardial I/R injury. • Isoliquiritigenin activates the Nrf2/HO-1/SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway to reduce cardiomyocyte ferroptosis to protect hearts against myocardial I/R injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the differential effects of varying doses of atorvastatin on antagonizing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endothelial inflammation based on heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression. Method: Vascular endothelial inflammatory injury was induced in 40 Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of LPS. These rats were randomly divided into control, low-dose atorvastatin, high-dose atorvastatin, and HO-1 blocking groups. Seven days after treatment, all rats were sacrificed, and heart-derived peripheral blood was collected to measure the serum concentrations of bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total cholesterol, malondialdehyde, endothelial cell protein C receptor, endothelin-1, von Willebrand factor, and soluble thrombomodulin. Meanwhile, the number of circulating endothelial cells was determined using flow cytometry. Vascular tissues from descending aorta of rats from each group were extracted to detect the expression level of HO-1. Results: After different doses of atorvastatin intervention, the above inflammatory indices were decreased, and HO-1 expression and ALT concentration were increased in the atorvastatin-treated group of rats compared with the control group. These changes were more pronounced in the high-dose statin group (P < 0.05). Conversely, no significant decrease in the above inflammatory indices and no significant increase in HO-1 expression were observed in rats in the blocking group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: For LPS-induced vascular inflammation, high-dose atorvastatin exerts potent anti-inflammatory and vascular endothelial protection effects by inducing HO-1 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carbon monoxide (CO), influences ovarian function, pregnancy, and placental health. Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 and its products, including CO, exhibit protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Objective: This study investigates the protective effects of CO released by the carbon dioxide-releasing molecule (CORM)-2 against oxidative stress, functional and structural changes of the ovaries, and HO-1 expressions in female rats suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 24 Rattus norvegicus var. Albinus female rats (180-200 gr, 8 wk) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 6/each): control, CORM-2 (10 mg/kg), PCOS (induced by 4 mg/kg, intramuscular injection and a single dose of estradiol valerate), PCOS + CORM-2. Ovary histological changes were evaluated by crystal violet staining. Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of ovarian tissue were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HO-1 expression was evaluated using Western blot. Results: Corpus luteal formation significantly decreased in the PCOS group and was significantly restored with CORM-2 administration compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The expression of ovarian HO-1 protein was reduced in the PCOS group compared to controls (p < 0.01), and administration of CORM in PCOS rats significantly increased its expression (p < 0.0001). In addition, CORM administration markedly reduced ovarian MDA levels and restored SOD activity (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: CORM-2 administration to PCOS rats created protective effects by reducing oxidative stress (reducing MDA level and restoring SOD activity) and increasing ovarian HO-1 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global incidence and prevalence of arrhythmias are continuously increasing. However, the precise mechanisms of underlying arrhythmogenesis and the optimal measures for effective treatment remain incompletely understood. The inducible form of heme oxygenase, known as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), is recognized as a potent antioxidant molecule capable of exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Recent research indicates that HO-1 plays a role in preventing arrhythmias by mitigating cardiac remodeling, including electrical remodeling, ion remodeling, and structural remodeling. This review aimed to consolidate current knowledge regarding the involvement of HO-1 in arrhythmias and elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontis is a chronic inflammatory disease induced by periodontopathogenic bacteria. The excessive immune response caused by persistent bacterial infection leads to alveolar bone resorption and ultimately tooth loss. Cardamonin is a biologically active substance that is found in the Zingiberaceae family, such as Alpinia zerumbet, and is classified as a natural chalcone. There have been no attempts to use cardamonin for the treatment of periodontitis, and no reports have examined the effects of cardamonin on periodontal tissue component cells. The aim of this study was to analyze effects of cardamonin on expression of inflammation mediators produced by TNFα-stimulated human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs), including its effects on signal transduction molecules. Cytokine and chemokine levels were measured by ELISA. Protein expression in HPDLCs and activations of signal transduction pathway were determined by Western blotting. Our results indicate that cardamonin suppresses C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, CCL20, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)10, and interleukin (IL)-6 production and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in TNF-α-stimulated HPDLCs. In addition, cardamonin induced the expression of the antioxidant enzyme, Heme Oxygenase (HO)-1, in HPDLCs. Furthermore, cardamonin suppressed TNF-α-stimulated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 signaling pathways in HPDLCs. We show that cardamonin reduces inflammatory mediator production by inhibiting the activation of several signaling pathways in this manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men with sickle cell disease (SCD) frequently experience priapism, defined as prolonged, painful erections occurring without sexual arousal or desire. This urological emergency can lead to penile fibrosis and permanent erectile dysfunction if not treated adequately. Due to its complex pathophysiology, there is currently no effective preventative treatment for this condition. Recent studies have highlighted the dysfunction of the nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway in erectile tissues as a critical mechanism in developing priapism in SCD. Additionally, further research indicates that intravascular hemolysis promotes increased smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and that excess heme may significantly contribute to priapism in SCD. Pharmacological treatments should ideally target the pathophysiological basis of the disease. Agents that reduce excess free heme in the plasma have emerged as potential therapeutic candidates. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying the excess of heme in SCD and its contribution to developing priapism. We discuss pharmacological approaches targeting the excess free heme in the plasma, highlighting it as a potential therapeutic target for future interventions in managing priapism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light is a critical environmental signal that is perceived by various photoreceptors and is of great significance in the photosynthetic growth of algae and plants. The phytochrome‐lacking model green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii possesses heme oxygenase (HMOX1) and phycocyanobilin ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PCYA1) to synthesize the linear tetrapyrrole bilin from heme in the chloroplast. The hmox1 mutant has photosynthetic growth deficiency and accumulation of photosystem I proteins such as LHCA1 is severely inhibited, and these defects could be rescued by exogenous bilin feeding in a blue light‐dependent manner. To investigate the contribution of the typical blue/ultraviolet light photoreceptors PHOT, aCRY, pCRY, and UVR8 in the process of bilin and blue light‐dependent recovery of LHCA1 protein in hmox1, we generated double mutants of these photoreceptors in hmox1, as well as a triple mutant of phot uvr8 hmox1, to analyze the LHCA1 protein abundance in these mutants. Results clearly showed that PHOT, CRYs, and UVR8 do not participate in this process. In addition, transcriptome profiling analysis of the hmox1 and its genetically complemented strain ho1C2 during dark‐to‐blue light transition revealed a total of 269 blue light‐responsive genes independent of bilin (|fold change| ≥ 2). RNA‐seq also identified a set of 249 differentially expressed genes that are dependent on both blue light and bilin. These findings provide valuable insights for elucidating the role of bilin in mediating blue light signaling pathways in Chlamydomonas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that oyster peptides (OPs) have antioxidant and anti-fatigue activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of OPs on swimming endurance in mice and the underlying mechanisms. The mice were subjected to gavage with OPs and subjected to exercise training. After 14 days, various biochemical indicators in the blood and gastrocnemius muscle of mice were assessed, and real-time PCR was utilized to detect the level of signal pathway regulation by OPs in the gastrocnemius muscle. Molecular docking technology was employed to observe the potential active components in OPs that regulate signal pathways. In this study, OPs supplementation combined with and without exercise significantly extended swimming time compared to the sedentary group. OPs supplementation with exercise also increased glycogen levels and decreased blood urea nitrogen, lactate dehydrogenase, and lactic acid levels. Additionally, mice in the exercise with OPs group exhibited higher activities of antioxidant enzymes. OPs can upregulate metabolic regulatory factors such as AMP-activated protein kinase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 alpha, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta, and glucose transporter 4, thereby increasing energy supply during exercise. Additionally, OPs enhances the expression of heme oxygenase 1 and superoxide dismutase 2, thereby reducing oxidative stress during physical activity. Molecular docking analyses revealed that peptides found in OPs formed hydrogen bonds with AMPK and HO-1, indicating that they can exert bioactivity by activating target proteins such as AMPK and HO-1. OPs supplementation improved energy reserves, modulated energy metabolism pathways, and coordinated antioxidative stress responses, ultimately enhancing swimming endurance. These findings suggest that OPs have the potential to improve exercise levels by promoting metabolism and improving energy utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapy-provoked peripheral neuropathy and its associated affective disorders are important adverse effects in cancer patients, and its treatment is not completely resolved. A recent study reveals a positive interaction between molecular hydrogen (H2) and a heme oxygenase (HO-1) enzyme inducer, cobalt protoporphyrin IX (CoPP), in the inhibition of neuropathic pain provoked by nerve injury. Nevertheless, the efficacy of CoPP co-administered with hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on the allodynia and emotional disorders related to paclitaxel (PTX) administration has not yet been assessed. Using male C57BL/6 mice injected with PTX, we examined the effects of the co-administration of low doses of CoPP and HRW on mechanical and thermal allodynia and anxiodepressive-like behaviors triggered by PTX. Moreover, the impact of this combined treatment on the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by PTX in the amygdala (AMG) and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were studied. Our results indicated that the antiallodynic actions of the co-administration of CoPP plus HRW are more rapid and higher than those given by each of them when independently administered. This combination inhibited anxiodepressive-like behaviors, the up-regulation of the inflammasome NLRP3 and 4-hydroxynonenal, as well as the high mRNA levels of some inflammatory mediators. This combination also increased the expression of NRF2, HO-1, superoxide dismutase 1, glutathione S-transferase mu 1, and/or the glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit and decreased the protein levels of BACH1 in the DRG and/or AMG. Thus, it shows a positive interaction among HO-1 and H2 systems in controlling PTX-induced neuropathy by modulating inflammation and activating the antioxidant system. This study recommends the co-administration of CoPP plus HRW as an effective treatment for PTX-provoked neuropathy and its linked emotive deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the mechanism by which fucoxanthin acts as a novel ferroptosis inducer to inhibit tongue cancer. The MTT assay was used to detect the inhibitory effects of fucoxanthin on SCC−25 human tongue squamous carcinoma cells. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total iron were measured. Reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT−qPCR) and Western blotting were used to assess glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), nuclear factor erythroid 2−related factor 2 (Nrf2), Keap1, solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), transferrin receptor protein 1 (TFR1), p53, and heme oxygenase 1 (HO−1) expression. Molecular docking was performed to validate interactions. Compared with the control group, the activity of fucoxanthin−treated SCC−25 cells significantly decreased in a dose− and time−dependent manner. The levels of MMP, GSH, and SOD significantly decreased in fucoxanthin−treated SCC−25 cells; the levels of ROS, MDA, and total iron significantly increased. mRNA and protein expression levels of Keap1, GPX4, Nrf2, and HO−1 in fucoxanthin−treated cells were significantly decreased, whereas levels of TFR1 and p53 were significantly increased, in a concentration−dependent manner. Molecular docking analysis revealed that binding free energies of fucoxanthin with p53, SLC7A11, GPX4, Nrf2, Keap1, HO−1, and TFR1 were below −5 kcal/mol, primarily based on active site hydrogen bonding. Our findings suggest that fucoxanthin can induce ferroptosis in SCC−25 cells, highlighting its potential as a treatment for tongue cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes major pathomechanisms of disease in which the dysregulation of host inflammatory processes is a major factor, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) as a primary model, and reviews strategies for countermeasures based on synergistic interaction between various agents, including drugs and generally regarded as safe (GRAS) natural medical material (NMM), such as Ginkgo biloba, spice phytochemicals, and fruit seed flavonoids. The 15 well-defined CVD classes are explored with particular emphasis on the extent to which oxidative stressors and associated ischemia-reperfusion tissue injury contribute to major symptoms. The four major categories of pharmaceutical agents used for the prevention of and therapy for CVD: statins, beta blockers (β-blockers), blood thinners (anticoagulants), and aspirin, are presented along with their adverse effects. Analyses of major cellular and molecular features of drug- and NMM-mediated cardioprotective processes are provided in the context of their development for human clinical application. Future directions of the evolving research described here will be particularly focused on the characterization and manipulation of calcium- and calcineurin-mediated cascades of signaling from cell surface receptors on cardiovascular and immune cells to the nucleus, with the emergence of both protective and pathological epigenetic features that may be modulated by synergistically-acting combinations of drugs and phytochemicals in which phytochemicals interact with cells to promote signaling that reduces the effective dosage and thus (often) toxicity of drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Heme oxygenase deficiency, a rare condition disrupting heme metabolism, has only nine reported cases. We present a 3‐year‐old boy with dysmorphic facies, asplenia, and normal bilirubin levels despite ongoing hemolysis. Blood transfusions sustained hemoglobin while IV steroids managed inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is extremely common in clinical practice and needs to be focused. Anwulignan is a unique lignan monomer of Schisandra Sphenanthera Fructus and is used as the main active ingredient of Wuzhi tablet, which is used for liver protection in clinical practice. In this study, an acute liver injury mouse model induced by acetaminophen and paracetamol (APAP) was used to observe its effects. Materials and Methods: An acute liver injury mouse model was established by intraperitoneally injecting APAP. Mice were divided into blank control (CON) group, APAP model (MOD) group, Anwulignan CON group, and Anwulignan MOD group. Anwulignan (6 mg/kg) or sodium carboxymethylcellulose (10 mL/kg) was intragastrically given to mice once a day, successively for 14 days. On day 14, 250 mg/kg APAP solution (10 mL/kg) or saline was injected intraperitoneally, and 12 h later, the mice were killed. alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in the serum of mice were tested. The liver index of mice was calculated, and the pathology of liver injury was evaluated by HE staining in mice. The activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver tissue were tested. The levels of kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap-1), nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), BCL2 associated X protein (Bax), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), caspase-3 and tumor suppressor protein (P53) mRNAs in the liver tissues of mice were detected by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), and the expression levels of Keap-1, Nrf2, HO-1, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3 and P53 proteins in the liver tissue of mice were detected by Western blot. Results: Anwulignan can alleviate the acute liver injury of mice. The down-regulation of the cyclophosphamide (CYP2E1) expression in the liver tissue of mice to reduce the hepatotoxicity of APAP, and the regulation of Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway-related gene expressions to play an antioxidant role and apoptosis-related gene expressions to inhibit the liver cell apoptosis may be involved in the mechanism through which Anwulignan can exert its effect. Conclusion: Anwulignan can alleviate the liver injury induced by APAP in mice, and this study may provide evidence for researching and developing some drugs and nutraceuticals used for preventing and treating liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The potential toxicity of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs), which are frequently employed in a variety of commercial and industrial uses, remains unknown. Hemin is the inducer of heme oxygenase 1, which exerts cytoprotective actions.Objectives: We aimed to assess the potential protective impact of hemin on the sperm of adult rats treated with CuO NPs. Material and methods: 50 adult rats were split into five groups: Group I: control, group II: animals received 40 μmol/kg b.w./day of solvent, group III: rats received 40 μmol/kg b.w./day of hemin, group IV: animals received 250 mg/kg b.w./day of CuO NPs and group V: rats received 40 μmol/kg b.w./day of hemin followed by CuO NPs at a dose of 250 mg /kg b.w./day. Each rat was administered orally as a single dose day after day for 2 weeks. At the completion of the investigation, all rats were sacrificed. Serum sex hormones were quantified and testes homogenized for biochemical analysis. Sperm analysis was processed for light microscopic examination.Results: Nanocopper reduces fertility hormone levels leading to sperm toxicity. CuO NPs also significantly decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes accompanied by significant elevation in the MDA levels in testes in contrast to the control group. Hemin treatment reduced the majority of the toxic impacts of CuO NPs via their antioxidative capacity. Conclusion: Administration of hemin ameliorated sex hormones, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and sperm characteristics in CuO NPs intoxicated rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation assessed the impact of external hemin on cadmium (Cd)-induced toxicity regarding metal accumulation and stress tolerance in Sorghum bicolor. Two-week-old S. bicolor seedlings were treated at concentrations of 10 µM Cd, 75 µM Cd, 150 µM Cd, and 1 µM hemin individually as well as in collection with hemin within a Hoagland medium. After 120 h, the subjected plants were collected for the study of cellular homeostasis and metal tolerance mechanisms, involving the examination of growth and stress parameters as well as non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants. However, augmentation of hemin under Cd-induced stress environments ameliorated plant development by augmenting biomass and chlorophyll pigments. This augmentation also encouraged antioxidant activities, including ascorbate peroxidase and guaiacol peroxidase levels, while simultaneously mitigating oxidative impairment and enhancing Cd tolerance in plants. Moreover, the utilization of hemin improves the efficacy of S. bicolor in Cd removal by enhancing the uptake of Cd. Hence, the investigation proposes that hemin holds promise for improving the Cd tolerance and accumulation capabilities of Cd-tolerant plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling and mitigating the toxicity of herbicides to non-target plants is of significant importance in reducing ecological risks. The development of green and natural herbicide control technologies has become an urgent necessity. In this paper, how 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-2H-1,4-benzoxazine-3(4H)-one (DIMBOA) and baicalein alleviated oxidative stress induced by imazethapyr (IM) in wheat seedlings was investigated. We found that DIMBOA and baicalein enhanced the antioxidant enzyme activities in wheat seedlings exposed to IM and reduced the excessive reactive oxygen species due to IM stress by 21.3% and 23.5%, respectively. DIMBOA and baicalein also restored the iron content reduced by IM and effectively mitigated Fe2+ overload by alleviating the response of heme oxygenase 1 to IM stress. The antioxidant and iron homeostatic maintenance properties of DIMBOA and baicalein enhanced the defenses of wheat seedlings against IM stress. Our results highlight the potential implication of secondary metabolites as natural products to modulate herbicide toxicity to non-target plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nrf2 is a master transcriptional regulator of a number of genes involved in the adaptive response to oxidative stress. Among the genes upregulated by Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has received significant attention, given that the products of HO-1-induced heme catabolism have well established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is evidenced in numerous models of inflammatory and autoimmune disease whereby induction of HO-1 expression or administration of tolerable amounts of HO-1 reaction products can ameliorate disease symptoms. Unsurprisingly, Nrf2 and HO-1 are now considered viable drug targets for a number of conditions. In recent years, the term ‘inflammaging’ has been used to describe the low-grade chronic inflammation observed in aging/aged cells. Increased oxidative stress is also a key factor associated with aging and there is convincing evidence that Nrf2, not only declines with age, but that Nrf2 and HO-1 can reduce cellular senescence and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) which is now considered an underlying driver of age-related inflammatory disease. In this review, we describe the role of oxidative stress in ‘inflammaging’ and highlight the potential anti-aging properties of the Nrf2-HO-1 system. We also highlight established and newly emerging Nrf2 activators and their therapeutic application in age-related disease.

Cadmium is a non-essential trace metal element with no known biological function. Cd is toxic to both plants and human beings; hence, it is of prime concern to the scientific community. The objective of this research is to find out the effect of heme oxygenase 1 on Cd toxicity in Sorghum bicolor seedlings. Hydroponically adapted seedlings were treated to various concentrations of Cd within the range of 10 to 200 μM. Seedlings were harvested after 120 h of Cd stress. The cellular homeostasis and metal tolerance mechanisms were conducted to evaluate growth parameters, stress parameters (MDA and H2O2 content), non-enzymatic and enzymatic parameters (CAT, APX and GPX) including HO 1. The results showed that HO 1 activity was measured to be highest in leaves at 150 μM CdCl2, which was 29.61 %.The HO 1 activity was correlated with the MDA content and antioxidant enzymes activity at this Cd concentration. The highest activity of HO 1 was revealed through the decrease of GPX and CAT activities. Consequently, HO 1 works within a cohort that helps the development of the plant's defense mechanisms by scavenging ROS, which is confirmed by the time-dependent study. Accordingly, our research highlighted that HO 1 might increase the efficiency of stress tolerance by enhancing antioxidant defence mechanisms against Cd toxicity in S. bicolor.

Heme is a prosthetic group of proteins involved in vital physiological processes. It participates, for example, in redox reactions crucial for cell metabolism due to the variable oxidation state of its central iron atom. However, excessive heme can be cytotoxic due to its prooxidant properties. Therefore, the control of intracellular heme levels ensures the survival of organisms, especially those that deal with high concentrations of heme during their lives, such as hematophagous insects. The export of heme initially attributed to the feline leukemia virus C receptor (FLVCR) has recently been called into question, following the discovery of choline uptake by the same receptor in mammals. Here, we found that RpFLVCR is a heme exporter in the midgut of the hematophagous insect Rhodnius prolixus, a vector for Chagas disease. Silencing RpFLVCR decreased hemolymphatic heme levels and increased the levels of intracellular dicysteinyl‐biliverdin, indicating heme retention inside midgut cells. FLVCR silencing led to increased expression of heme oxygenase (HO), ferritin, and mitoferrin mRNAs while downregulating the iron importers Malvolio 1 and 2. In contrast, HO gene silencing increased FLVCR and Malvolio expression and downregulated ferritin, revealing crosstalk between heme degradation/export and iron transport/storage pathways. Furthermore, RpFLVCR silencing strongly increased oxidant production and lipid peroxidation, reduced cytochrome c oxidase activity, and activated mitochondrial biogenesis, effects not observed in RpHO‐silenced insects. These data support FLVCR function as a heme exporter, playing a pivotal role in heme/iron metabolism and maintenance of redox balance, especially in an organism adapted to face extremely high concentrations of heme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]