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Nutrients Jun 2024Gut microbiota might affect the severity and progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We aimed to characterize gut dysbiosis and...
Gut microbiota might affect the severity and progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We aimed to characterize gut dysbiosis and clinical parameters regarding fibrosis stages assessed by magnetic resonance elastography. This study included 156 patients with MASLD, stratified into no/mild fibrosis (F0-F1) and moderate/severe fibrosis (F2-F4). Fecal specimens were sequenced targeting the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and analyzed using bioinformatics. The genotyping of , , and was assessed by allelic discrimination assays. Our data showed that gut microbial profiles between groups significantly differed in beta-diversity but not in alpha-diversity indices. Enriched and , and depleted were found in the F2-F4 group versus the F0-F1 group. Compared to F0-F1, the F2-F4 group had elevated plasma surrogate markers of gut epithelial permeability and bacterial translocation. The bacterial genera, polymorphisms, old age, and diabetes were independently associated with advanced fibrosis in multivariable analyses. Using the Random Forest classifier, the gut microbial signature of three genera could differentiate the groups with high diagnostic accuracy (AUC of 0.93). These results indicated that the imbalance of enriched pathogenic genera and decreased beneficial bacteria, in association with several clinical and genetic factors, were potential contributors to the pathogenesis and progression of MASLD.
Topics: Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Liver Cirrhosis; Female; Male; Middle Aged; Severity of Illness Index; Membrane Proteins; Lipase; Aged; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S; Dysbiosis; Fatty Liver; Feces; Adult; Genetic Variation; Elasticity Imaging Techniques; Bacteria; Acyltransferases; 17-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases; Phospholipases A2, Calcium-Independent
PubMed: 38931155
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121800 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024Nitroxides are stable radicals consisting of a nitroxyl group, >N-O, which carries an unpaired electron. This group is responsible for the paramagnetic and antioxidant...
Nitroxides are stable radicals consisting of a nitroxyl group, >N-O, which carries an unpaired electron. This group is responsible for the paramagnetic and antioxidant properties of these compounds. A recent study evaluated the effects of pyrrolidine and pyrroline derivatives of nitroxides on the antioxidant system of human red blood cells (RBCs). It showed that nitroxides caused an increase in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of methemoglobin (MetHb) in cells (in pyrroline derivatives) but had no effect on the activity of catalase and lactate dehydrogenase. Nitroxides also reduced the concentration of ascorbic acid (AA) in cells but did not cause any oxidation of proteins or lipids. Interestingly, nitroxides initiated an increase in thiols in the plasma membranes and hemolysate. However, the study also revealed that nitroxides may have pro-oxidant properties. The drop in the AA concentration and the increase in the MetHb level and in SOD activity may indicate the pro-oxidant properties of nitroxides in red blood cells.
Topics: Humans; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Erythrocytes; Methemoglobin; Nitrogen Oxides; Oxidation-Reduction; Pyrrolidines; Superoxide Dismutase
PubMed: 38931005
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122941 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024Based on the fact that substances with a β-phenyl-α,β-unsaturated carbonyl (PUSC) motif confer strong tyrosinase inhibitory activity,...
Based on the fact that substances with a β-phenyl-α,β-unsaturated carbonyl (PUSC) motif confer strong tyrosinase inhibitory activity, benzylidene-3-methyl-2-thioxothiazolidin-4-one (BMTTZD) analogs - were prepared as potential tyrosinase inhibitors. Four analogs (- and ) inhibited mushroom tyrosinase strongly. Especially, analog showed an inhibitory effect that was 220 and 22 times more powerful than kojic acid in the presence of l-tyrosine and l-dopa, respectively. A kinetic study utilizing mushroom tyrosinase showed that analogs and competitively inhibited tyrosinase, whereas analogs and inhibited tyrosinase in a mixed manner. A docking simulation study indicated that analogs and could bind to both the tyrosinase active and allosteric sites with high binding affinities. In cell-based experiments using B16F10 cells, analogs , , and effectively inhibited melanin production; their anti-melanogenic effects were attributed to their ability to inhibit intracellular tyrosinase activity. Moreover, analogs , , and inhibited in situ B16F10 cellular tyrosinase activity. In three antioxidant experiments, analogs and exhibited strong antioxidant efficacy, similar to that of the positive controls. These results suggest that the BMTTZD analogs are promising tyrosinase inhibitors for the treatment of hyperpigmentation-related disorders.
Topics: Monophenol Monooxygenase; Agaricales; Animals; Antioxidants; Mice; Enzyme Inhibitors; Molecular Docking Simulation; Melanins; Thiazolidines; Cell Line, Tumor; Kinetics; Melanoma, Experimental; Benzylidene Compounds; Pyrones
PubMed: 38930952
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122887 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024Research over the last 25 years related to structural elucidations and biological investigations of the specialized pro-resolving mediators has spurred great interest in... (Review)
Review
Research over the last 25 years related to structural elucidations and biological investigations of the specialized pro-resolving mediators has spurred great interest in targeting these endogenous products in total synthesis. These lipid mediators govern the resolution of inflammation as potent and stereoselective agonists toward individual G-protein-coupled receptors, resulting in potent anti-inflammatory activities demonstrated in many human disease models. Specialized pro-resolving mediators are oxygenated polyunsaturated products formed in stereoselective and distinct biosynthetic pathways initiated by various lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzymes. In this review, the reported stereoselective total synthesis and biological activities of the specialized pro-resolving mediators biosynthesized from the polyunsaturated fatty acid n-3 docosapentaenoic acid are presented.
Topics: Humans; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Animals; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Inflammation
PubMed: 38930898
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122833 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024This 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...
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.
Topics: Humans; NF-E2-Related Factor 2; Ferroptosis; Xanthophylls; Heme Oxygenase-1; Cell Line, Tumor; Phospholipid Hydroperoxide Glutathione Peroxidase; Molecular Docking Simulation; Reactive Oxygen Species; Signal Transduction; Tongue Neoplasms; Receptors, Transferrin; Membrane Potential, Mitochondrial; Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Amino Acid Transport System y+; Superoxide Dismutase; Down-Regulation; Antigens, CD
PubMed: 38930897
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122832 -
Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024Xanthine Oxidoreductase (XOR) is a ubiquitous, essential enzyme responsible for the terminal steps of purine catabolism, ultimately producing uric acid that is... (Review)
Review
Xanthine Oxidoreductase (XOR) is a ubiquitous, essential enzyme responsible for the terminal steps of purine catabolism, ultimately producing uric acid that is eliminated by the kidneys. XOR is also a physiological source of superoxide ion, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide, which can function as second messengers in the activation of various physiological pathways, as well as contribute to the development and the progression of chronic conditions including kidney diseases, which are increasing in prevalence worldwide. XOR activity can promote oxidative distress, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation through the biological effects of reactive oxygen species; nitric oxide and uric acid are the major products of XOR activity. However, the complex relationship of these reactions in disease settings has long been debated, and the environmental influences and genetics remain largely unknown. In this review, we give an overview of the biochemistry, biology, environmental, and current clinical impact of XOR in the kidney. Finally, we highlight recent genetic studies linking and risk for kidney disease, igniting enthusiasm for future biomarker development and novel therapeutic approaches targeting XOR.
PubMed: 38929151
DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060712 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jun 2024Glioblastoma is the most aggressive tumor in the central nervous system, with a survival rate of less than 15 months despite multimodal therapy. Tumor recurrence...
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive tumor in the central nervous system, with a survival rate of less than 15 months despite multimodal therapy. Tumor recurrence frequently occurs after removal. Tumoral angiogenesis, the formation of neovessels, has a positive impact on tumor progression and invasion, although there are controversial results in the specialized literature regarding its impact on survival. This study aims to correlate the immunoexpression of angiogenesis markers (CD34, CD105) with the proliferation index Ki67 and in primary and secondary glioblastomas. This retrospective study included 54 patients diagnosed with glioblastoma at the Pathology Department of County Emergency Clinical Hospital Târgu Mureș. Microvascular density was determined using CD34 and CD105 antibodies, and the results were correlated with the immunoexpression of , , and Ki67. The number of neoformed blood vessels varied among cases, characterized by different shapes and calibers, with endothelial cells showing modified morphology and moderate to marked pleomorphism. Neovessels with a glomeruloid aspect, associated with intense positivity for CD34 or CD105 in endothelial cells, were observed, characteristic of glioblastomas. Mean microvascular density values were higher for the CD34 marker in all cases, though there were no statistically significant differences compared to CD105. Mutant and glioblastomas, wild-type glioblastomas, and those with a Ki67 index above 20% showed a more abundant microvascular density, with statistical correlations not reaching significance. This study highlighted a variety of percentage intervals of microvascular density in primary and secondary glioblastomas using immunohistochemical markers CD34 and CD105, respectively, with no statistically significant correlation between evaluated microvascular density and p53 or Ki67.
Topics: Humans; Glioblastoma; Tumor Suppressor Protein p53; Ki-67 Antigen; Female; Middle Aged; Male; Aged; Adult; Isocitrate Dehydrogenase; Brain Neoplasms; X-linked Nuclear Protein; Neovascularization, Pathologic; Microvascular Density; Retrospective Studies; Endoglin; Antigens, CD34; Biomarkers, Tumor; Immunohistochemistry
PubMed: 38928515
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126810 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jun 2024Inhibitors of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are of interest for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and other human pathologies. In this frame, the present work...
Synthesis, Molecular Electron Density Theory Study, Molecular Docking, and Pharmacological Evaluation of New Coumarin-Sulfonamide-Nitroindazolyl-Triazole Hybrids as Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors.
Inhibitors of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are of interest for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and other human pathologies. In this frame, the present work describes different synthetic strategies to obtain MAO inhibitors via the coupling of the aminocoumarin core with arylsulfonyl chlorides followed by copper azide-alkyne cycloaddition, leading to coumarin-sulfonamide-nitroindazolyl-triazole hybrids. The nitration position on the coumarin moiety was confirmed through nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and molecular electron density theory in order to elucidate the molecular mechanism and selectivity of the electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction. The coumarin derivatives were evaluated for their inhibitory potency against monoamine oxidases and cholinesterases. Molecular docking calculations provided a rational binding mode of the best compounds in the series with MAO A and B. The work identified hybrids - as novel MAO inhibitors, with a selective action against isoform B, of potential interest to combat neurological diseases.
Topics: Molecular Docking Simulation; Coumarins; Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors; Triazoles; Monoamine Oxidase; Humans; Sulfonamides; Structure-Activity Relationship; Molecular Structure; Density Functional Theory
PubMed: 38928509
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126803 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jun 2024Our study aimed to investigate the role of ferroptosis in sevoflurane-induced hearing impairment and explore the mechanism of the microRNA-182-5p...
Our study aimed to investigate the role of ferroptosis in sevoflurane-induced hearing impairment and explore the mechanism of the microRNA-182-5p (miR-182-5p)/Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) pathway in sevoflurane-induced ototoxicity. Immunofluorescence staining was performed using myosin 7a and CtBP2. Cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 kit. Fe concentration was measured using FerroOrange and Mi-to-FerroGreen fluorescent probes. The lipid peroxide level was assessed using BODIPY 581/591 C11 and MitoSOX fluorescent probes. The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test was conducted to evaluate the hearing status. Bioinformatics tools and dual luciferase gene reporter analysis were used to confirm the direct targeting of miR-182-5p on GPX4 mRNA. GPX4 and miR-182-5p expression in cells was assessed by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) pretreatment significantly improved hearing impairment and damage to ribbon synapses in mice caused by sevoflurane exposure. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that Fer-1 pretreatment reduced intracellular and mitochondrial iron overload, as well as lipid peroxide accumulation. Our findings indicated that miR-182-5p was upregulated in sevoflurane-exposed HEI-OC1 cells, and miR-182-5p regulated GPX4 expression by binding to the 3'UTR of GPX4 mRNA. The inhibition of miR-182-5p attenuated sevoflurane-induced iron overload and lipid peroxide accumulation. Our study elucidated that the miR-182-5p/GPX4 pathway was implicated in sevoflurane-induced ototoxicity by promoting ferroptosis.
Topics: Ferroptosis; MicroRNAs; Sevoflurane; Phospholipid Hydroperoxide Glutathione Peroxidase; Animals; Mice; Ototoxicity; Signal Transduction; Cell Line; Male; Hearing Loss; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Phenylenediamines; Cyclohexylamines
PubMed: 38928480
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126774 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jun 2024Increased fructose consumption and chronic stress, the major characteristics of modern lifestyle, impact human health; however, the consequences of their combination on...
Increased fructose consumption and chronic stress, the major characteristics of modern lifestyle, impact human health; however, the consequences of their combination on the uterus remain understudied. In this study, we investigated contractile activity, morphology, and intracellular activity of antioxidant enzymes in uteri from virgin Wistar rats subjected to liquid fructose supplementation and/or unpredictable stress over 9 weeks. Contractile activity and uterine response to oxytocin or adrenaline were examined using isolated bath chambers. Fructose supplementation, irrespective of stress, affected uterine morphology by increasing endometrium while decreasing myometrium volume density, attenuated uterine response to increasing doses of oxytocin, and increased glutathione peroxidase activity. Stress, irrespective of fructose, attenuated dose-dependent adrenaline-induced uterine relaxation. Stress, when applied solely, decreased mitochondrial superoxide dismutase activity. In the combined treatment, irregular estrous cycles and both reduced response to oxytocin and to adrenaline (as a consequence of fructose consumption and exposure to stress), along with fructose-related alteration of uterine morphology, were detected. In conclusion, fructose and stress affect uterine contractile activity, irrespective of each other, by inducing completely distinct responses in isolated uteri. In the combined treatment, the effects of both factors were evident, suggesting that the combination exerts more detrimental effects on the uterus than each factor individually.
Topics: Animals; Female; Fructose; Rats; Uterine Contraction; Rats, Wistar; Oxytocin; Uterus; Epinephrine; Stress, Physiological; Stress, Psychological; Superoxide Dismutase; Dietary Supplements; Myometrium; Antioxidants
PubMed: 38928475
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126770