Antioxidants

17 pages, 896 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Importance of SGLT-2 Inhibitors as Both the Prevention and the Treatment of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

by Klaudia Kowalska, Piotr Wilczopolski, Dominika Buławska, Ewelina Młynarska, Jacek Rysz and Beata Franczyk

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2500; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122500 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3501

Abstract

According to the 2021 report of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there have been approximately 573 million cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among adults, which sets the disease as a major concern in healthcare worldwide. The development of T2DM is strongly [...] Read more.

According to the 2021 report of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there have been approximately 573 million cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among adults, which sets the disease as a major concern in healthcare worldwide. The development of T2DM is strongly promoted by unhealthy lifestyle factors associated with urbanization and western civilization. The disease is associated with a broad list of systemic complications that can result in premature death, disability and significantly reduced quality of life. The most dramatic in their consequences are cardiovascular complications of T2DM. Our work focuses on one such complication that is specific for diabetes, named diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC). In this condition cardiac dysfunction occurs despite the absence of underlying hypertension, coronary artery disease and valvular disease, which suggest a leading role for metabolic disturbances as a cause. We aimed to establish the role of relatively new hypoglycaemic drugs that have taken the medical world by storm with their broad pleiotropic effects—SGLT-2 inhibitors—in the prevention and treatment of DC at any stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Cardiomyopathy)

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20 pages, 3759 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Synthetic Flavonoid Hidrosmin Improves Endothelial Dysfunction and Atherosclerotic Lesions in Diabetic Mice

by Luna Jiménez-Castilla, Lucas Opazo-Ríos, Gema Marin-Royo, Macarena Orejudo, Raquel Rodrigues-Diez, Constanza Ballesteros-Martínez, Manuel Soto-Catalán, Teresa Caro-Ordieres, Inés Artaiz, Tatiana Suarez-Cortés, Arturo Zazpe, Gonzalo Hernández, Marcelino Cortés, José Tuñón, Ana M. Briones, Jesús Egido and Carmen Gómez-Guerrero

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2499; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122499 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2798

Abstract

In diabetes, chronic hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the progression of macro/microvascular complications. Recently, benefits of the use of flavonoids in these conditions have been established. This study investigates, in two different mouse models of diabetes, the vasculoprotective effects of [...] Read more.

In diabetes, chronic hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the progression of macro/microvascular complications. Recently, benefits of the use of flavonoids in these conditions have been established. This study investigates, in two different mouse models of diabetes, the vasculoprotective effects of the synthetic flavonoid hidrosmin on endothelial dysfunction and atherogenesis. In a type 2 diabetes model of leptin-receptor-deficient (db/db) mice, orally administered hidrosmin (600 mg/kg/day) for 16 weeks markedly improved vascular function in aorta and mesenteric arteries without affecting vascular structural properties, as assessed by wire and pressure myography. In streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, hidrosmin treatment for 7 weeks reduced atherosclerotic plaque size and lipid content; increased markers of plaque stability; and decreased markers of inflammation, senescence and oxidative stress in aorta. Hidrosmin showed cardiovascular safety, as neither functional nor structural abnormalities were noted in diabetic hearts. Ex vivo, hidrosmin induced vascular relaxation that was blocked by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition. In vitro, hidrosmin stimulated endothelial NOS activity and NO production and downregulated hyperglycemia-induced inflammatory and oxidant genes in vascular smooth muscle cells. Our results highlight hidrosmin as a potential add-on therapy in the treatment of macrovascular complications of diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavonoids and Chronic Diseases)

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17 pages, 1579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing Proteomic Approach to Analyze Potential Antioxidant Proteins in Plant against Irradiation

by Ming-Hui Yang, Yi-Shan Lu, Tzu-Chuan Ho, Daniel Hueng-Yuan Shen, Ying-Fong Huang, Kuo-Pin Chuang, Cheng-Hui Yuan and Yu-Chang Tyan

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2498; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122498 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1656

Abstract

Gamma-ray irradiation is an effective and clean method of sterilization by inactivating microorganisms. It can also be applied to induce anti-oxidants for future application. In this study, the mung bean (Vigna radiata) was exposed to gamma-ray irradiation under the dose of [...] Read more.

Gamma-ray irradiation is an effective and clean method of sterilization by inactivating microorganisms. It can also be applied to induce anti-oxidants for future application. In this study, the mung bean (Vigna radiata) was exposed to gamma-ray irradiation under the dose of 0, 5 or 10 kGy. With increasing irradiation doses, the concentrations of malondiadehyde decreased while the levels of total flavonoids and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity increased. It has been shown that consuming flavonoids can provide protective effects. In addition, proteomic analysis identified several proteins having anti-oxidant activities in the 5 kGy irradiated group. These proteins are Apocytochrome f, Systemin receptor SR 160, DELLA protein DWARF8, DEAD-box ATP-dependent RNA helicase 9, ζ-carotene desaturase (ZDS), and Floral homeotic protein AGAMOUS. Our findings indicate that plants contain a variety of phytochemicals and antioxidant proteins which may effectively prevent oxidative stress caused by irradiated peroxidation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Food and Cosmetics)

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18 pages, 1762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Phenolic-Rich Pinus densiflora Extract on Learning, Memory, and Hippocampal Long-Term Potentiation in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesic Rats

by Kwan Joong Kim, Eun-Sang Hwang, Min-Jeong Kim, Chan-Su Rha, Myoung Chong Song, Sungho Maeng, Ji-Ho Park and Dae-Ok Kim

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2497; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122497 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2376

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia with cognitive impairment. Various plant-derived phenolics are known to alleviate cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease by radical scavenging and strengthening synaptic plasticity activities. Here, we examined the cognition-improving effect of Pinus densiflora Sieb. et [...] Read more.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia with cognitive impairment. Various plant-derived phenolics are known to alleviate cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease by radical scavenging and strengthening synaptic plasticity activities. Here, we examined the cognition-improving effect of Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc. bark extract (PBE). We identified and quantified phenolics in the PBE using a UHPLC-Orbitrap mass spectrometer. To evaluate the cognition-enhancing effects of PBE, scopolamine-induced amnesic Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (5 weeks old) and ion channel antagonist-induced organotypic hippocampal slices of SD rats (7 days old) were used. Twenty-three phenolics were tentatively identified in PBE, 10 of which were quantified. Oral administration of PBE to the scopolamine-induced SD rats improved cognitive impairment in behavioral tests. PBE-fed SD rats showed significantly improved antioxidant indices (superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and malondialdehyde content) and reduced acetylcholinesterase activity in hippocampal lysate compared with the scopolamine group. PBE increased the long-term potentiation (LTP) induction and rescued LTP from blockades by the muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonist (scopolamine) and N-methyl-D-aspartate channel antagonist (2-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid) in the organotypic hippocampal slices. These results suggest that polyphenol-rich PBE is applicable as a cognition-improving agent due to its antioxidant properties and enhancement of LTP induction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potential Benefits of Antioxidant Phytochemicals on Endogenous Antioxidants Defences in Chronic Diseases)

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12 pages, 5492 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stevia and Stevioside Attenuate Liver Steatosis through PPARα-Mediated Lipophagy in db/db Mice Hepatocytes

by Miey Park, Anshul Sharma, Hana Baek, Jin-Young Han, Junho Yu and Hae-Jeung Lee

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2496; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122496 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3072

Abstract

Lipophagy, a type of autophagy that breaks down lipid droplets, is essential in the regulation of intracellular lipid accumulation and intracellular free fatty acid levels in numerous organisms and metabolic conditions. We investigated the effects of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (S), a low-calorie sweetener, [...] Read more.

Lipophagy, a type of autophagy that breaks down lipid droplets, is essential in the regulation of intracellular lipid accumulation and intracellular free fatty acid levels in numerous organisms and metabolic conditions. We investigated the effects of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (S), a low-calorie sweetener, and stevioside (SS) on hepatic steatosis and autophagy in hepatocytes, as well as in db/db mice. S and SS reduced the body and liver weight and levels of serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, and hepatic lipogenic proteins. In addition, S and SS increased the levels of fatty acid oxidase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 B but decreased that of sequestosome 1 (p62) in the liver of db/db mice. Additionally, Beclin 1, lysosomal associated membrane protein 1, and phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase protein expression was augmented following S and SS treatment of db/db mice. Furthermore, the knockdown of PPARα blocked lipophagy in response to SS treatment in HepG2 cells. These outcomes indicate that PPARα-dependent lipophagy is involved in hepatic steatosis in the db/db mouse model and that SS, a PPARα agonist, represents a new therapeutic option for managing associated diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regulation of Autophagy under Stress)

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21 pages, 1602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Gnaphalium viscosum (Kunth) Valorization Prospects: Sustainable Recovery of Antioxidants by Different Techniques

by Stanislava Boyadzhieva, Jose A. P. Coelho, Massimiliano Errico, H. Elizabeth Reynel-Avilla, Dragomir S. Yankov, Adrian Bonilla-Petriciolet and Roumiana P. Stateva

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2495; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122495 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1977

Abstract

This work investigates the prospects for exploitation of Gnaphalium viscosum (Kunth) abundant but with limited applications till present biomass. The feasibility of traditional techniques (two-phase solvent, and the benchmark Soxhlet extraction) and supercritical extraction without/with a cosolvent at T = 40–60 °C and [...] Read more.

This work investigates the prospects for exploitation of Gnaphalium viscosum (Kunth) abundant but with limited applications till present biomass. The feasibility of traditional techniques (two-phase solvent, and the benchmark Soxhlet extraction) and supercritical extraction without/with a cosolvent at T = 40–60 °C and p = 30–50 MPa was examined to explore the possibility of recovering phytochemicals from G. viscosum leaves, flowers and stems. The efficiency of the techniques was assessed and compared based on yield, influence of solvents used, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the extracts. Phenolics of different complexities were identified and quantified by applying LC (LC–MS/MS, and LC–HRAM), while the fatty acid profile was determined by GC–FID. The results of this extensive study demonstrated the huge valorization potential and prospects of G. viscosum, since highly potent antioxidants such as kaempferol, kaempferol-3-O-β-d-glucoside (astragalin), and chlorogenic acid were ascertained in considerable amounts. Furthermore, for the first time, the presence of leontopodic acid, a greatly substituted derivative of glucaric acid, was detected in the species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Astonishing World of Phytochemicals: State-of-the-Art for Antioxidants)

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24 pages, 749 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antioxidant Activity of Urtica dioica: An Important Property Contributing to Multiple Biological Activities

by Varun Jaiswal and Hae-Jeung Lee

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2494; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122494 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4500

Abstract

Urtica dioica (UD) is a multi-functional plant known to be used as both food and medicine from ancient times. The plant has the potential to be used as a fertilizer and for biological pest control. It is also used in textile and related [...] Read more.

Urtica dioica (UD) is a multi-functional plant known to be used as both food and medicine from ancient times. The plant has the potential to be used as a fertilizer and for biological pest control. It is also used in textile and related industries for its quality fibers. In the recent past, the plant has received great attention for its numerous important biological activities and food applications. The antioxidant activity of UD is the crucial factor supporting its important biological activities, such as anticancer, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant activity of UD is also found to be protective in different organs, including the brain, liver, lungs, kidney, ovary, and uterus, and may also be protective against diseases associated with these organs. Few clinical studies have endorsed the antioxidant potential of UD in patients. The current work is an attempt to comprehensively compile and discuss the antioxidant activity of UD from in vitro, in vivo and human studies. The insights of the current study would be helpful in getting a panoramic view of the antioxidant potential of UD, and provide direction for optimizing and developing it for therapeutic applications against important diseases and conditions in the near future. Full article

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19 pages, 2400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Extraction of Polyphenols from Waste Bentonite to Produce Functional Antioxidant Excipients for Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Purposes: A Waste-to-Market Approach

by Giulia Di Prima, Elena Belfiore, Martina Migliore, Amalia Giulia Scarpaci, Giuseppe Angellotti, Ignazio Restivo, Mario Allegra, Vincenzo Arizza and Viviana De Caro

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2493; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122493 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2447

Abstract

In an ever-growing perspective of circular economy, the development of conscious, sustainable and environmental-friendly strategies to recycle the waste products is the key point. The scope of this work was to validate the waste bentonite from the grape processing industries as a precious [...] Read more.

In an ever-growing perspective of circular economy, the development of conscious, sustainable and environmental-friendly strategies to recycle the waste products is the key point. The scope of this work was to validate the waste bentonite from the grape processing industries as a precious matrix to extract polyphenols by applying a waste-to-market approach aimed at producing novel functional excipients. The waste bentonite was recovered after the fining process and opportunely pre-treated. Subsequently, both the freeze dried and the so-called “wet” bentonites were subjected to maceration. PEG200 and Propylene Glycol were selected as solvents due to their ability to dissolve polyphenols and their wide use in the cosmetic/pharmaceutical field. The extracts were evaluated in terms of yield, density, pH after water-dilution, total phenolic (Folin–Ciocalteu) and protein (Bradford) contents, antioxidant power (DPPH), amount of some representative polyphenols (HPLC-DAD), cytocompatibility and stability. Both solvents validated the bentonite as a valuable source of polyphenols and led to colored fluids characterized by an acidic pH after water-dilution. The best extract was obtained from the wet bentonite with PEG200 and highlighted the highest phenolic content and consequently the strongest antioxidant activity. Additionally, it displayed proliferative properties and resulted almost stable over time. Hence, it might be directly used as polyphenols-enriched functional novel raw material for cosmetic and pharmaceutics purposes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants from Agrofood Wastes for Cosmetic Industry: Insights into Green Extraction Approaches)

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31 pages, 3281 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antioxidant Activities of Natural Polysaccharides and Their Derivatives for Biomedical and Medicinal Applications

by Lu Bai, Dong Xu, Yan-Ming Zhou, Yong-Bo Zhang, Han Zhang, Yi-Bing Chen and Yuan-Lu Cui

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2491; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122491 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 5820

Abstract

Many chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases are closely related to in vivo oxidative stress caused by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). Natural polysaccharides, as a kind of biomacromolecule with good biocompatibility, have been widely used in biomedical and [...] Read more.

Many chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases are closely related to in vivo oxidative stress caused by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). Natural polysaccharides, as a kind of biomacromolecule with good biocompatibility, have been widely used in biomedical and medicinal applications due to their superior antioxidant properties. In this review, scientometric analysis of the highly cited papers in the Web of Science (WOS) database finds that antioxidant activity is the most widely studied and popular among pharmacological effects of natural polysaccharides. The antioxidant mechanisms of natural polysaccharides mainly contain the regulation of signal transduction pathways, the activation of enzymes, and the scavenging of free radicals. We continuously discuss the antioxidant activities of natural polysaccharides and their derivatives. At the same time, we summarize their applications in the field of pharmaceutics/drug delivery, tissue engineering, and antimicrobial food additives/packaging materials. Overall, this review provides up-to-date information for the further development and application of natural polysaccharides with antioxidant activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Antioxidant Ingredients from Natural Products)

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17 pages, 2294 KiB

Open AccessReview

Applications of Antioxidants in Dental Procedures

by Fan Qi, Haofei Huang, Ming Wang, Weifeng Rong and Jing Wang

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2492; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122492 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4040

Abstract

As people are paying more and more attention to dental health, various dental treatment procedures have emerged, such as tooth bleaching, dental implants, and dental restorations. However, a large number of free radicals are typically produced during the dental procedures. When the imbalance [...] Read more.

As people are paying more and more attention to dental health, various dental treatment procedures have emerged, such as tooth bleaching, dental implants, and dental restorations. However, a large number of free radicals are typically produced during the dental procedures. When the imbalance in distribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is induced, oxidative stress coupled with oxidative damage occurs. Oral inflammations such as those in periodontitis and pulpitis are also unavoidable. Therefore, the applications of exogenous antioxidants in oral environment have been proposed. In this article, the origin of ROS during dental procedures, the types of antioxidants, and their working mechanisms are reviewed. Additionally, antioxidants delivery in the complicated dental procedures and their feasibility for clinical applications are also covered. Finally, the importance of safety assessment of these materials and future work to take the challenge in antioxidants development are proposed for perspective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Antioxidant Nanoparticles)

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16 pages, 2407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Catechin Bioavailability Following Consumption of a Green Tea Extract Confection Is Reduced in Obese Persons without Affecting Gut Microbial-Derived Valerolactones

by Geoffrey Y. Sasaki, Yael Vodovotz, Zhongtang Yu and Richard S. Bruno

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2490; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122490 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3729

Abstract

Obesity-related cardiometabolic disorders are driven by inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut dysbiosis. Green tea catechins protect against cardiometabolic disorders by anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and prebiotic activities. However, whether obesity alters catechin bioavailability remains unknown. We hypothesized that obesity would decrease catechin bioavailability due to [...] Read more.

Obesity-related cardiometabolic disorders are driven by inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut dysbiosis. Green tea catechins protect against cardiometabolic disorders by anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and prebiotic activities. However, whether obesity alters catechin bioavailability remains unknown. We hypothesized that obesity would decrease catechin bioavailability due to altered gut microbiota composition. Obese and healthy persons completed a pharmacokinetics trial in which a confection formulated with green tea extract (GTE; 58% epigallocatechin gallate, 17% epigallocatechin, 8% epicatechin, 6% epicatechin gallate) was ingested before collecting plasma and urine at timed intervals for up to 24 h. Stool samples were collected prior to confection ingestion. Catechins and γ-valerolactones were assessed by LC-MS. Obesity reduced plasma area under the curve (AUC_0-12h) by 24–27% and maximum plasma concentrations by 18–36% for all catechins. Plasma AUC_0-12h for 5′-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone and 5′-(3′,4′,5′-trihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone, as well as total urinary elimination of all catechins and valerolactones, were unaffected. ⍺-Diversity in obese persons was lower, while Slackia was the only catechin-metabolizing bacteria that was altered by obesity. Ascorbic acid and diversity metrics were correlated with catechin/valerolactone bioavailability. These findings indicate that obesity reduces catechin bioavailability without affecting valerolactone generation, urinary catechin elimination, or substantially altered gut microbiota populations, suggesting a gut-level mechanism that limits catechin absorption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress in Obesity-II)

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15 pages, 1206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does the Type Matter? Verification of Different Tea Types’ Potential in the Synthesis of SeNPs

by Aleksandra Sentkowska and Krystyna Pyrzynska

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2489; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122489 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1971

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are gaining popularity due to their potential biomedical applications. This work describes their green synthesis using various types of tea. Black, green, red and white tea infusions were tested for the content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant properties and then [...] Read more.

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are gaining popularity due to their potential biomedical applications. This work describes their green synthesis using various types of tea. Black, green, red and white tea infusions were tested for the content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant properties and then used in the synthesis of SeNPs. In each of the syntheses, nanoparticles with dimensions ranging from 3.9 to 12.5 nm, differing in shape and properties, were obtained. All of them were characterized by a very high ability to neutralize hydroxyl radicals, which was about three-times higher than for the tea infusions from which they were obtained. The main inconvenience in obtaining SeNPs was the difficulties with their purification, which should be a further stage in the described research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidative Ingredients for Oxidative Stress Prevention: The Potential of Coffee and Tea)

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16 pages, 749 KiB

Open AccessReview

Polyamine Oxidase-Generated Reactive Oxygen Species in Plant Development and Adaptation: The Polyamine Oxidase—NADPH Oxidase Nexus

by Péter Benkő, Katalin Gémes and Attila Fehér

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2488; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122488 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2959

Abstract

Metabolism and regulation of cellular polyamine levels are crucial for living cells to maintain their homeostasis and function. Polyamine oxidases (PAOs) terminally catabolize polyamines or catalyse the back-conversion reactions when spermine is converted to spermidine and Spd to putrescine. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂ [...] Read more.

Metabolism and regulation of cellular polyamine levels are crucial for living cells to maintain their homeostasis and function. Polyamine oxidases (PAOs) terminally catabolize polyamines or catalyse the back-conversion reactions when spermine is converted to spermidine and Spd to putrescine. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a by-product of both the catabolic and back-conversion processes. Pharmacological and genetic approaches have started to uncover the roles of PAO-generated H₂O₂ in various plant developmental and adaptation processes such as cell differentiation, senescence, programmed cell death, and abiotic and biotic stress responses. Many of these studies have revealed that the superoxide-generating Respiratory Burst Oxidase Homolog (RBOH) NADPH oxidases control the same processes either upstream or downstream of PAO action. Therefore, it is reasonable to suppose that the two enzymes co-ordinately control the cellular homeostasis of reactive oxygen species. The intricate relationship between PAOs and RBOHs is also discussed, posing the hypothesis that these enzymes indirectly control each other’s abundance/function via H₂O₂. Full article

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26 pages, 3515 KiB

Open AccessReview

Generation and Physiology of Hydrogen Sulfide and Reactive Sulfur Species in Bacteria

by Sirui Han, Yingxi Li and Haichun Gao

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2487; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122487 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4936

Abstract

Sulfur is not only one of the most abundant elements on the Earth, but it is also essential to all living organisms. As life likely began and evolved in a hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-rich environment, sulfur metabolism represents an early form of [...] Read more.

Sulfur is not only one of the most abundant elements on the Earth, but it is also essential to all living organisms. As life likely began and evolved in a hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-rich environment, sulfur metabolism represents an early form of energy generation via various reactions in prokaryotes and has driven the sulfur biogeochemical cycle since. It has long been known that H₂S is toxic to cells at high concentrations, but now this gaseous molecule, at the physiological level, is recognized as a signaling molecule and a regulator of critical biological processes. Recently, many metabolites of H₂S, collectively called reactive sulfur species (RSS), have been gradually appreciated as having similar or divergent regulatory roles compared with H₂S in living organisms, especially mammals. In prokaryotes, even in bacteria, investigations into generation and physiology of RSS remain preliminary and an understanding of the relevant biological processes is still in its infancy. Despite this, recent and exciting advances in the fields are many. Here, we discuss abiotic and biotic generation of H₂S/RSS, sulfur-transforming enzymes and their functioning mechanisms, and their physiological roles as well as the sensing and regulation of H₂S/RSS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reactive Sulfur Species in Microorganisms)

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8 pages, 1504 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hyperoxidized Peroxiredoxin 2 Is a Possible Biomarker for the Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

by Shin Koike, Haruka Sudo, Satori Turudome, Masako Ueyama, Yoshiaki Tanaka, Hiroshi Kimura, Yo-Ichi Ishida and Yuki Ogasawara

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122486 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) 2 in red blood cells (RBCs) reacts with various reactive oxygen species and changes to hyperoxidized Prx2 (Prx2-SO_2/3). Therefore, Prx2 may serve as an indicator of oxidative stress in vivo. This study aimed to analyze Prx2-SO_2/3 levels in [...] Read more.

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) 2 in red blood cells (RBCs) reacts with various reactive oxygen species and changes to hyperoxidized Prx2 (Prx2-SO_2/3). Therefore, Prx2 may serve as an indicator of oxidative stress in vivo. This study aimed to analyze Prx2-SO_2/3 levels in clinical samples to examine whether the oxidation state of Prx2 in human RBCs reflects the pathological condition of oxidative stress diseases. We first focused on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a hypoxic stress-induced disease of the respiratory system, and investigated the levels of Prx2-SO_2/3 accumulated in the RBCs of OSA patients. In measurements on a small number of OSA patients and healthy subjects, levels of Prx2-SO_2/3 accumulation in patients with OSA were clearly increased compared to those in healthy subjects. Hence, we proceeded to validate these findings with more samples collected from patients with OSA. The results revealed significantly higher levels of erythrocytic Prx2-SO_2/3 in patients with OSA than in healthy subjects, as well as a positive correlation between the severity of OSA and Prx2-SO_2/3 levels in the RBCs. Moreover, we performed a chromatographic study to show the structural changes of Prx2 due to hyperoxidation. Our findings demonstrated that the Prx2-SO_2/3 molecules in RBCs from patients with OSA were considerably more hydrophilic than the reduced form of Prx2. These results implicate Prx2-SO_2/3 as a promising candidate biomarker for OSA. Full article

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26 pages, 2172 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ellagic Acid Triggers the Necrosis of Differentiated Human Enterocytes Exposed to 3-Nitro-Tyrosine: An MS-Based Proteomic Study

by Silvia Díaz-Velasco, Josué Delgado, Fernando J. Peña and Mario Estévez

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2485; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122485 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1837

Abstract

To study the molecular basis of the toxicological effect of a dietary nitrosated amino acid, namely, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), differentiated human enterocytes were exposed to dietary concentrations of this species (200 μM) and analyzed for flow cytometry, protein oxidation markers and MS-based proteomics. The [...] Read more.

To study the molecular basis of the toxicological effect of a dietary nitrosated amino acid, namely, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), differentiated human enterocytes were exposed to dietary concentrations of this species (200 μM) and analyzed for flow cytometry, protein oxidation markers and MS-based proteomics. The possible protective role of a dietary phytochemical, ellagic acid (EA) (200 μM), was also tested. The results revealed that cell viability was significantly affected by exposure to 3-NT, with a concomitant significant increase in necrosis (p < 0.05). 3-NT affected several biological processes, such as histocompatibility complex class II (MHC class II), and pathways related to type 3 metabotropic glutamate receptors binding. Addition of EA to 3-NT-treated cells stimulated the toxicological effects of the latter by reducing the abundance of proteins involved in mitochondrial conformation. These results emphasize the impact of dietary nitrosated amino acids in intestinal cell physiology and warn about the potential negative effects of ellagic acid when combined with noxious metabolites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Antioxidants—Aberrant and Signaling Oxidation of Biomolecules)

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17 pages, 3896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Complex Interplay between Autophagy and Oxidative Stress in the Development of Endometriosis

by Ramona D’Amico, Daniela Impellizzeri, Marika Cordaro, Rosalba Siracusa, Livia Interdonato, Ylenia Marino, Rosalia Crupi, Enrico Gugliandolo, Francesco Macrì, Davide Di Paola, Alessio Filippo Peritore, Roberta Fusco, Salvatore Cuzzocrea and Rosanna Di Paola

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2484; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122484 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2621

Abstract

Endometriosis (Endo) is a chronic gynecological disease. This paper aimed to evaluate the modulation of autophagy, oxidative stress and apoptosis with Açai Berries in a rat model of endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced with an intraperitoneal injection of minced uterus tissue from a donor [...] Read more.

Endometriosis (Endo) is a chronic gynecological disease. This paper aimed to evaluate the modulation of autophagy, oxidative stress and apoptosis with Açai Berries in a rat model of endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced with an intraperitoneal injection of minced uterus tissue from a donor rat into a recipient one. The abdominal high-frequency ultrasound (hfUS) analysis was performed at 7 and 14 days from the endometriosis induction to evaluate the growth of the lesion during the experiment. Seven days from the induction, once the lesions were implanted, an Açai Berry was administered daily by gavage for the next seven days. At the end of the experiment, the hfUS analysis showed a reduced lesion diameter in animals given the Açai Berry. A macroscopical and histological analysis confirmed this result. From the molecular point of view, Western blot analyses were conducted to evaluate the autophagy induction. Samples collected from the Endo group showed impaired autophagy, while the Açai Berry administration inhibited PI3K and AKT and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and promoted autophagy by inactivating mTOR. Additionally, Açai Berry administration dephosphorylated ATG1, promoting the activity of the ATG1/ULK1 complex that recruited Ambra1/Beclin1 and Atg9 to promote autophagosome nucleation and LC3II expression. Açai Berry administration also restored mitophagy, which increased Parkin cytosolic expression. The Açai Berry increased the expression of NRF2 in the nucleus and the expression of its downstream antioxidant proteins as NQO-1 and HO-1, thereby restoring the oxidative imbalance. It also restored the impaired apoptotic pathway by reducing BCL-2 and increasing BAX expression. This result was also confirmed by the TUNEL assay. Overall, our results displayed that Açai Berry administration was able to modulate autophagy, oxidative stress and apoptosis during endometriosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Applications of Natural Antioxidants in Translational Medicine)

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10 pages, 1810 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Sargassum macrocarpum Extracts

by Hoon Kim, Hyun Young Shin, Eun-Jin Jeong, Hak-Dong Lee, Ki Cheol Hwang, Kwang-Won Yu, Sullim Lee and Sanghyun Lee

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2483; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122483 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2842

Abstract

Oxidative stress and the inflammatory response are known to be the most important pathological factors for aging skin cells. Therefore, substances that protect skin cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions of the skin have potential as functional ingredients for skin care. In [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress and the inflammatory response are known to be the most important pathological factors for aging skin cells. Therefore, substances that protect skin cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions of the skin have potential as functional ingredients for skin care. In the present study, we investigated the potential of Sargassum macrocarpum as an anti-inflammatory candidate for inflammatory skin disease. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are desirable properties in such functional materials. The total polyphenol content as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated in hot-water (HES) and ethanol (EES) extracts of S. macrocarpum. The polyphenol content was higher in the HES (HES: 115.9 ± 15.3 mg GA/g, EES: 3.9 ± 0.5 mg GA/g), and the HES also had ABTS (HES: IC₅₀ 1.0 ± 0.0 mg/mL, EES: IC₅₀ 16.09 ± 0.7 mg/mL) and DPPH (HES: IC₅₀ 6.50 ± 0.3 mg/mL, EES: IC₅₀ 35.3 ± 3.1 mg/mL) radical scavenging capacities as well as FRAP activity (HES: IC₅₀ 18.8 ± 0.4 mg/mL, EES: IC₅₀ n.d.). Compared with the EES at the equivalent concentration range (1.25–20 μg/mL), the HES exerted a more potent inhibitory activity on LPS-stimulated nitric oxide (10.3–43.1%), IL-6 (15.7–45.0%), and TNF-α (14.1–20.8%) in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells in addition to TNF-α and IFN-γ-facilitated IL-6 (10.9–84.1%) and IL-8 (7.7–73.2%) in HaCaT keratinocytes. These results suggested that water-soluble materials might be deeply involved in the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in S. macrocarpum. General composition analysis indicated that the HES contains more carbohydrates and polyphenols than the EES, and the monosaccharide composition analysis suggested that fucose-containing sulfated polysaccharide and β-glucan might be potent anti-inflammatory candidates in the HES. The present study presents important preliminary results and a valuable strategy for developing novel anti-skin dermatitis candidates using a hot-water extract of S. macrocarpum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Compounds from Natural Products)

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25 pages, 3882 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, and Prebiotic Activities of the Chemical Compounds Isolated from Guizotia abyssinica

by Ahmed Elbermawi, Mohamed Samir Darwish, Ahmed A. Zaki, Noha A. Abou-Zeid, Mohamed A. Taher, Ebtihal Khojah, Somaiah A. Bokhari and Amal F. Soliman

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2482; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122482 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2676

Abstract

India and Ethiopia employ Guizotia abyssinica (niger plant) as a source of edible vegetable oil. Previous studies have documented the niger plant’s antioxidant properties and dietary benefits. Here, G. abyssinica extract was obtained and ten known bioactive components (1–10) [...] Read more.

India and Ethiopia employ Guizotia abyssinica (niger plant) as a source of edible vegetable oil. Previous studies have documented the niger plant’s antioxidant properties and dietary benefits. Here, G. abyssinica extract was obtained and ten known bioactive components (1–10) were isolated. The antioxidant, antidiabetic, and prebiotic properties of whole extract and isolated components of niger and the plant’s ability to cooperate symbiotically with probiotic strains were examined. Compound 10, myricetin-3-O-L-rhamnoside, had the highest antioxidant capacity measured in the 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH, 4629.76 ± 6.02 µmol Trolox equivalent/g compound) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP, 2667.62 ± 7.5 mol Trolox equivalent/g compound) assays. The lowest α-amylase and glycogen phosphorylase activities and glucose diffusion were obtained with whole G. abyssinica extracts, whereas compounds 8–10 had moderate inhibitory effects. G. abyssinica extract also induced the highest glucose absorption by yeast cells in the presence of 5 mM of glucose. Moreover, Lactobacillus plantarum and L. rhamnosus incubated with β-sitosterol 3-O-D-glucoside (compound 7) showed the highest prebiotic activity score. The levels of L-(+)-lactic acid isomer in the probiotic strains were the highest in presence of the whole extract and decreased progressively in the presence of flavonoid glycosides (compounds 8–10) and β-sitosterol 3-O-D-glucoside. The enzymatic profile of the probiotic strains was unaffected by the niger extract and compounds 7–10. The findings revealed that the biological activities of G. abyssinica extract are mediated by the compounds 1–10, and it may be considered as a promising plant for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Potential of Extracts from Foods and Plants)

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13 pages, 582 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Debittering with Different Solvents and Ultrasound on Carotenoids, Tocopherols, and Phenolics of Lupinus albus Seeds

by Lorenzo Estivi, Davide Fusi, Andrea Brandolini and Alyssa Hidalgo

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2481; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122481 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Lupin seeds represent a rich nutritional source of bioactive compounds, including antioxidant molecules such as carotenoids, tocopherols, and phenolics. However, before consumption, the lupin seeds must be debittered in order to remove their bitter and toxic alkaloids. This study analyzed the impact on [...] Read more.

Lupin seeds represent a rich nutritional source of bioactive compounds, including antioxidant molecules such as carotenoids, tocopherols, and phenolics. However, before consumption, the lupin seeds must be debittered in order to remove their bitter and toxic alkaloids. This study analyzed the impact on the bioactive compounds of Lupinus albus seeds of a recent time- and water-saving debittering method, which employs alternative washing solutions (0.5% or 1% of either NaCl or citric acid), with or without the assistance of ultrasound. The results were compared with those of two control methods using water or a NaCl solution. The sonication, when it was significant, led to a large loss of bioactive compounds, which was most likely due to its extraction capability. The seeds that were debittered without ultrasound presented high concentrations of tocopherols (172.8–241.3 mg/kg DM), carotenoids (10.9–25.1 mg/kg DM), and soluble-free (106.9–361.1 mg/kg DM), soluble-conjugated (93.9–118.9 mg/kg DM), and insoluble-bound (59.2–156.7 mg/kg DM) phenolics. The soluble-free fraction showed the greatest loss after a prolonged treatment. Overall, debittering with citric acid or NaCl preserved the highest concentration of antioxidant compounds by shortening the treatment time, thus preventing extensive leaching. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Antioxidants for Food Improvement Volume 2)

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19 pages, 12489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of a Late-Senescent Vegetable Soybean during Seed Development Provides New Insights into Degradation of Chlorophyll

by Jian Wang, Guang Chen, Xuetong Li, Xujun Fu, Sujuan Li, Xiaoyuan Tao, Zhong-Hua Chen and Shengchun Xu

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2480; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122480 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2532

Abstract

(1) Background: Senescence represents the final stage of plant growth and development, which transfers nutrients to growing seeds and directly affects the yield and quality of crops. However, little is known about chlorophyll degradation in developing and maturing seeds, in contrast to leaf [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Senescence represents the final stage of plant growth and development, which transfers nutrients to growing seeds and directly affects the yield and quality of crops. However, little is known about chlorophyll degradation in developing and maturing seeds, in contrast to leaf senescence; (2) Methods: RNA-Seq was used to analyze the differentially expressed genes of different late-senescent germplasms. A widely untargeted metabolic analysis was used to analyze differential metabolites. In addition, qRT-PCR was conducted to detect gene expression levels; (3) Results: Transcriptome analysis revealed that ZX12 seeds have a higher expression level of the chlorophyll synthesis genes in the early stage of maturity, compared with ZX4, and have a lower expression level of chlorophyll degradation genes in the late stage of maturity. Flavonoids were the primary differential metabolites, and ZX12 contains the unique and highest expression of three types of metabolites, including farrerol-7-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-o-(6′-o-feruloyl) glucoside, and kaempferide-3-o-(6′-malonyl) glucoside. Among them, farrerol-7-O-glucoside and cyanidin-3-o-(6′-o-feruloyl) glucoside are flavonoid derivatives containing mono and dihydroxy-B-ring chemical structures, respectively; and (4) Conclusions: It is speculated that the two metabolites can slow down the degradation process of chlorophyll by scavenging oxygen-free radicals in the chloroplast. Full article

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20 pages, 1289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Gastrointestinal Digestion on the Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Fermented Aloe vera Juices

by Ruth B. Cuvas-Limon, Pedro Ferreira-Santos, Mario Cruz, José A. Teixeira, Ruth Belmares and Clarisse Nobre

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2479; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122479 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3866

Abstract

Plant-based beverages are enriched by the fermentation process. However, their biocompounds are transformed during gastrointestinal digestion, improving their bioaccessibility, which is of primary importance when considering the associated health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on [...] Read more.

Plant-based beverages are enriched by the fermentation process. However, their biocompounds are transformed during gastrointestinal digestion, improving their bioaccessibility, which is of primary importance when considering the associated health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on phenolic compound bioaccessibility and antioxidant activity of novel Aloe vera juices fermented by probiotic Enterococcus faecium and Lactococcus lactis. Aloe vera juices were digested using the standardized static INFOGEST protocol. During digestion, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) were accessed. The digestion process was seen to significantly increase the total phenolic content of the fermented Aloe vera juices. The fermentation of Aloe vera increased the bioaccessibility of juice biocompounds, particularly for kaempferol, ellagic acid, resveratrol, hesperidin, ferulic acid, and aloin. The phenolics released during digestion were able to reduce the oxidative radicals assessed by ABTS and FRAP tests, increasing the antioxidant action in the intestine, where they are absorbed. The fermentation of Aloe vera by probiotics is an excellent process to increase the bioavailability of beverages, resulting in natural added-value functional products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose)

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19 pages, 3645 KiB

Open AccessReview

Role of FOXO3a Transcription Factor in the Regulation of Liver Oxidative Injury

by Hong Jin, Li Zhang, Jun He, Min Wu, Li Jia and Jiabin Guo

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2478; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122478 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3616

Abstract

Oxidative stress has been identified as a key mechanism in liver damage caused by various chemicals. The transcription factor FOXO3a has emerged as a critical regulator of redox imbalance. Multiple post-translational changes and epigenetic processes closely regulate the activity of FOXO3a, resulting in [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress has been identified as a key mechanism in liver damage caused by various chemicals. The transcription factor FOXO3a has emerged as a critical regulator of redox imbalance. Multiple post-translational changes and epigenetic processes closely regulate the activity of FOXO3a, resulting in synergistic or competing impacts on its subcellular localization, stability, protein–protein interactions, DNA binding affinity, and transcriptional programs. Depending on the chemical nature and subcellular context, the oxidative-stress-mediated activation of FOXO3a can induce multiple transcriptional programs that play crucial roles in oxidative injury to the liver by chemicals. Here, we mainly review the role of FOXO3a in coordinating programs of genes that are essential for cellular homeostasis, with an emphasis on exploring the regulatory mechanisms and potential application of FOXO3a as a therapeutic target to prevent and treat liver oxidative injury. Full article

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20 pages, 4289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distributions of α- and δ-TOCopherol in Intact Olive and Soybean Oil-in-Water Emulsions at Various Acidities: A Test of the Sensitivity of the Pseudophase Kinetic Model

by Lucía Fernández-Ventoso, Artai Toba-Pérez, Sonia Losada-Barreiro, Fátima Paiva-Martins and Carlos Bravo-Díaz

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2477; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122477 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1621

Abstract

During the last years, the formalism of the pseudophase kinetic model (PKM) has been successfully applied to determine the distributions of antioxidants and their effective interfacial concentrations, and to assess the relative importance of emulsion and antioxidant properties (oil and surfactant nature, temperature, [...] Read more.

During the last years, the formalism of the pseudophase kinetic model (PKM) has been successfully applied to determine the distributions of antioxidants and their effective interfacial concentrations, and to assess the relative importance of emulsion and antioxidant properties (oil and surfactant nature, temperature, acidity, chemical structure, hydrophilic-liphophilic balance (HLB), etc.) on their efficiency in intact lipid-based emulsions. The PKM permits separating the contributions of the medium and of the concentration to the overall rate of the reaction. In this paper, we report the results of a specifically designed experiment to further test the suitability of the PKM to evaluate the distributions of antioxidants among the various regions of intact lipid-based emulsions and provide insights into their chemical reactivity in multiphasic systems. For this purpose, we employed the antioxidants α- and δ-TOCopherol (α- and δ-TOC, respectively) and determined, at different acidities well below their pKa, the interfacial rate constants k_I for the reaction between 16-ArN₂⁺ and α- and δ-TOC, and the antioxidant distributions in intact emulsions prepared with olive and soybean oils. Results show that the effective interfacial concentration of δ-TOC is higher than that of α-TOC in 1:9 (v/v) soybean and 1:9 olive oil emulsions. The effective interfacial concentrations of tocopherols are much higher (15-96-fold) than the stoichiometric concentrations, as the effective interfacial concentrations of both δ-TOC and α-TOC in soybean oil emulsions are higher (2-fold) than those in olive oil emulsions. Overall, the results demonstrate that the PKM grants an effective separation of the medium and concentration effects, demonstrating that the PKM constitutes a powerful non-destructive tool to determine antioxidant concentrations in intact emulsions and to assess the effects of various factors affecting them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Controlling Lipid Peroxidation in Bulk and in Emulsified Oils)

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15 pages, 3290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Oxidative Stress Markers and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Black Bean Aphid Morphs (Aphis fabae Scop.) Fed on the Primary Host Viburnum opulus L.

by Iwona Łukasik, Sylwia Goławska and Hubert Sytykiewicz

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2476; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122476 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

Changes in the level of oxidative stress markers—superoxide anion radical (

O_{2^{-}}

), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes—superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in the black bean [...] Read more.

Changes in the level of oxidative stress markers—superoxide anion radical (

O_{2^{-}}

), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes—superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in the black bean aphid occurring on the primary host (viburnum plants) were studied. Among the aphid morphs, the lowest contents of

O_{2^{-}}

, H₂O₂ and MDA were noted for winged adults (alatae), which were also characterized by the highest activity of antioxidant enzymes. These metabolic features indicate the adaptation of winged morphs to the colonization of new host plants. During spring migration, an increase in the content of oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities in wingless females (fundatrigeniae) was observed. The significance of the biochemical adaptation of the black bean aphid to its winter host is discussed. Full article

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14 pages, 5181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Insights into the Cellular Toxicity of Carbon Quantum Dots to Escherichia coli

by Shirong Qiang, Li Zhang, Zhengbin Li, Jianjun Liang, Ping Li, Jiayu Song, Kunling Guo, Zihuan Wang and Qiaohui Fan

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2475; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122475 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2455

Abstract

In this study, the cytotoxicity and toxic mechanism of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) to E. coli were evaluated in vitro. The synthetic CQDs were extremely small in size (~2.08 nm) and displayed strong fluorescence. The results demonstrated that CQDs showed good biocompatibility with [...] Read more.

In this study, the cytotoxicity and toxic mechanism of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) to E. coli were evaluated in vitro. The synthetic CQDs were extremely small in size (~2.08 nm) and displayed strong fluorescence. The results demonstrated that CQDs showed good biocompatibility with E. coli within a short culture time. However, when the exposure time exceeded 24 h, the toxicity of CQDs became apparent, and the contents of reactive oxygen species, lactate dehydrogenase, and the crystal violet absorption rate increased significantly. To further explore the cytotoxic mechanism, approaches including confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and biological transmission electron microscopy combined with zeta potential tests, osmotic pressure measurement, and comet assays were performed. On the one hand, the CQDs altered the surface charges of cells and induced lipid peroxidation by adhesion on the surface of E. coli, leading to an increase in the permeability of the cell wall. On the other hand, when the concentration of CQDs reached 200 µg/mL, the osmotic pressure of the extracellular environment was significantly reduced. These are the main factors that lead to cell edema and death. Finally, the comet assays confirmed that CQDs could induce DNA damage, which could inhibit the proliferation of E. coli. Full article

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23 pages, 2395 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sidestream Smoke Extracts from Harm-Reduction and Conventional Camel Cigarettes Inhibit Osteogenic Differentiation via Oxidative Stress and Differential Activation of intrinsic Apoptotic Pathways

by Nicole R. L. Sparks, Lauren M. Walker, Steven R. Sera, Joseph V. Madrid, Michael Hanna, Edward C. Dominguez and Nicole I. zur Nieden

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122474 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2361

Abstract

Epidemiological studies suggest cigarette smoking as a probable environmental factor for a variety of congenital anomalies, including low bone mass, increased fracture risk and poor skeletal health. Human and animal in vitro models have confirmed hypomineralization of differentiating cell lines with sidestream smoke [...] Read more.

Epidemiological studies suggest cigarette smoking as a probable environmental factor for a variety of congenital anomalies, including low bone mass, increased fracture risk and poor skeletal health. Human and animal in vitro models have confirmed hypomineralization of differentiating cell lines with sidestream smoke being more harmful to developing cells than mainstream smoke. Furthermore, first reports are emerging to suggest a differential impact of conventional versus harm-reduction tobacco products on bone tissue as it develops in the embryo or in vitro. To gather first insight into the molecular mechanism of such differences, we assessed the effect of sidestream smoke solutions from Camel (conventional) and Camel Blue (harm-reduction) cigarettes using a human embryonic stem cell osteogenic differentiation model. Sidestream smoke from the conventional Camel cigarettes concentration-dependently inhibited in vitro calcification triggered by high levels of mitochondrially generated oxidative stress, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced ATP production. Camel sidestream smoke also induced DNA damage and caspase 9-dependent apoptosis. Camel Blue-exposed cells, in contrast, invoked only intermediate levels of reactive oxygen species insufficient to activate caspase 3/7. Despite the absence of apoptotic gene activation, damage to the mitochondrial phenotype was still noted concomitant with activation of an anti-inflammatory gene signature and inhibited mineralization. Collectively, the presented findings in differentiating pluripotent stem cells imply that embryos may exhibit low bone mineral density if exposed to environmental smoke during development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress in Human Toxicology)

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18 pages, 4774 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Retention Rates of Synthetic and Natural Astaxanthin in Feeds and Their Effects on Pigmentation, Growth, and Health in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

by Wei Zhao, Yu-Cai Guo, Ming-Yan Huai, Lily Li, Chi Man, Wolf Pelletier, Han-Lin Wei, Rong Yao and Jin Niu

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2473; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122473 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3471

Abstract

The coloring efficiency and physiological function of astaxanthin in fish vary with its regions. The aim of this study was to compare the retention rates of dietary astaxanthin from different sources and its effects on growth, pigmentation, and physiological function in Oncorhynchus mykiss [...] Read more.

The coloring efficiency and physiological function of astaxanthin in fish vary with its regions. The aim of this study was to compare the retention rates of dietary astaxanthin from different sources and its effects on growth, pigmentation, and physiological function in Oncorhynchus mykiss. Fish were fed astaxanthin-supplemented diets (LP: 0.1% Lucantin^® Pink CWD; CP: 0.1% Carophyll^® Pink; EP: 0.1% Essention^® Pink; PR: 1% Phaffia rhodozyma; HP: 1% Haematococcus pluvialis), or a diet without astaxanthin supplementation, for 56 days. Dietary astaxanthin enhanced pigmentation as well as the growth of the fish. The intestinal morphology of fish was improved, and the crude protein content of dorsal muscle significantly increased in fish fed with astaxanthin. Moreover, astaxanthin led to a decrease in total cholesterol levels and alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activity in plasma. Fish fed on the CP diet also produced the highest level of umami amino acids (aspartic acid and glutamic acid). Regarding antioxidant capacity, astaxanthin increased Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and antioxidant enzyme activity. Innate immune responses, including lysozyme and complement systems, were also stimulated by astaxanthin. Lucantin^® Pink CWD had the highest stability in feed and achieved the best pigmentation, Essention^® Pink performed best in growth promotion and Carophyll^® Pink resulted in the best flesh quality. H. pluvialis was the astaxanthin source for achieving the best antioxidant properties and immunity of O. mykiss. Full article

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21 pages, 2677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Thymus pulegioides Essential Oil

by Călin Jianu, Laura-Cristina Rusu, Iulia Muntean, Ileana Cocan, Alexandra Teodora Lukinich-Gruia, Ionuț Goleț, Delia Horhat, Marius Mioc, Alexandra Mioc, Codruța Șoica, Gabriel Bujancă, Adrian Cosmin Ilie and Delia Muntean

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2472; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122472 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2421

Abstract

The study was designed to analyze and evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the essential oils of Thymus pulegioides L. grown in Western Romania. Thymus pulegioides L. essential oil (TPEO) was extracted by steam distillation (0.71% v/w) using a Craveiro-type apparatus. [...] Read more.

The study was designed to analyze and evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the essential oils of Thymus pulegioides L. grown in Western Romania. Thymus pulegioides L. essential oil (TPEO) was extracted by steam distillation (0.71% v/w) using a Craveiro-type apparatus. GC-MS investigation of the TPEO identified 39 different compounds, representing 98.46% of total oil. Findings revealed that thymol (22.89%) is the main compound of TPEO, followed by para-cymene (14.57%), thymol methyl ether (11.19%), isothymol methyl ether (10.45%), and beta-bisabolene (9.53%). The oil exhibits good antibacterial effects; C. parapsilosis, C. albicans, S. pyogenes, and S. aureus were the most sensitive strains. The antioxidant activity of TPEO was evaluated by peroxide and thiobarbituric acid value, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), [2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium] (ABTS) radical scavenging assay, and beta-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching testing. The antioxidative data recorded reveal, for the first time, that TPEO inhibits primary and secondary oxidation products, in some particular conditions, better than butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) with significant statistical difference (p < 0.05). Moreover, TPEO antioxidant capabilities in DPPH and ABTS assays outperformed alpha-tocopherol (p < 0.001) and delta-tocopherol (p < 0.001). Molecular docking analysis revealed that one potential target correlated with the TPEO antimicrobial activity was d-alanine-d-alanine ligase (DDl). The best scoring ligand, linalyl anthranilate, shared highly similar binding patterns with the DDl native inhibitor. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis also showed that the main constituents of TPEO are good candidates for xanthine oxidase and lipoxygenase inhibition, making the essential oil a valuable source for protein-targeted antioxidant compounds. Consequently, TPEO may represent a new potential source of antioxidant and antibacterial agents with applicability in the food and pharmaceutic industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects - 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 6432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation of an Antioxidant Assembly Based on a Copolymacrolactone Structure and Erythritol following an Eco-Friendly Strategy

by Aurica P. Chiriac, Alina Ghilan, Alexandru-Mihail Serban, Ana-Maria Macsim, Alexandra Bargan, Florica Doroftei, Vlad Mihai Chiriac, Loredana Elena Nita, Alina Gabriela Rusu and Andreea-Isabela Sandu

Antioxidants 2022, 11(12), 2471; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11122471 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1600

Abstract

The study presents the achievement of a new assembly with antioxidant behaviour based on a copolymacrolactone structure that encapsulates erythritol (Eryt). Poly(ethylene brassylate-co-squaric acid) (PEBSA) was synthesised in environmentally friendly conditions, respectively, through a process in suspension in water by opening the cycle [...] Read more.

The study presents the achievement of a new assembly with antioxidant behaviour based on a copolymacrolactone structure that encapsulates erythritol (Eryt). Poly(ethylene brassylate-co-squaric acid) (PEBSA) was synthesised in environmentally friendly conditions, respectively, through a process in suspension in water by opening the cycle of ethylene brassylate macrolactone, followed by condensation with squaric acid. The compound synthesised in suspension was characterised by comparison with the polymer obtained by polymerisation in solution. The investigations revealed that, with the exception of the molecular masses, the compounds generated by the two synthetic procedures present similar properties, including good thermal stability, with a T_peak of 456 °C, and the capacity for network formation. In addition, the investigation by dynamic light scattering techniques evidenced a mean diameter for PEBSA particles of around 596 nm and a zeta potential of −25 mV, which attests to their stability. The bio-based copolymacrolactone was used as a matrix for erythritol encapsulation. The new PEBSA–Eryt compound presented an increased sorption/desorption process, compared with the PEBSA matrix, and a crystalline morphology confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The bioactive compound was also characterised in terms of its biocompatibility and antioxidant behaviour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants)

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