Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry最新文献

Background/aims: Anthropogenic impact is irreversibly changing natural habitats of birds. Changes caused by the bioaccumulation of trace metals can lead to the development of oxidative stress and affect oxygen-dependent metabolic pathways in bird tissues, which can be used as effective bioindicators in these conditions. The objectives of our study were (a) to investigate the tissue-specific activity of key enzymes involved in metabolic changes and energy production, including Krebs cycle enzymes, as well as variations in metabolites associated with oxygen-dependent processes; and (b) to apply multivariate regression analysis, using beta and correlation coefficients, to elucidate the mechanisms of adaptive responses in pigeons to environmental changes in lead-contaminated areas.

Methods: This study investigates the ecotoxicological effects on feral pigeons (Columba livia f. urbana) in their natural habitats. It examines the influence of key environmental factors, sex, and biochemical alterations across five tissues (liver, kidney, heart, muscle, and brain). The analysis includes the combined effects of these variables on biochemical biomarkers related to energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and antioxidant defenses, considering the levels of chemical elements present in the pigeons. The analyses involved two groups of pigeons, namely, 7 females and 10 males (n = 17) in the group sampled in Słupsk and 7 females and 7 males, (n = 14) in Szpęgawa that living in two areas in central part of Northern Poland, which differed in the level of anthropopressure.

Results: We report significant values of lead bioaccumulation in feathers of pigeons and the impact of this metal on the activities of Krebs cycle enzymes (succinate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase), biomarkers of oxygen-dependent processes (lactate dehydrogenase activity, lactate and pyruvate levels, and their ratio), and aminotransferases in different tissues of pigeons.

Conclusion: Biomarkers of oxygen-dependent processes in five tissues of pigeons are depending on sex and environment. Pigeons from lead-exposed areas exhibited decreased antioxidant defence by biochemical alterations in tissues. Analytical model of oxidative stress biomarkers, Krebs cycle enzymes, and chemical elements is significant. Using multivariate regression analysis with beta- and correlative coefficients, relationships were shown for the optimal development of adaptation alterations in biochemical reactions in pigeons in response to the modification of their environments. Research on Columba livia f. urbana provides valuable insights into understanding the effects of anthropogenic pollution on bird physiology and offers practical methods for assessing environmental health.

Background/aims: MOTS-c belongs to a group of mitochondrial peptides involved in metabolic processes in the body. This peptide has garnered increasing attention since its discovery in 2015 because of its potential to ameliorate metabolic parameters in animals with diabetes or insulin resistance. MOTS-c is involved in muscle metabolism; however, little is known about its role in fiber differentiation.

Methods: We conducted a study to explore the effect of MOTS-c on cellular processes using the C2C12 and L6 cell lines, representing different metabolic types of muscle fibers. The research methods were real-time PCR, Western blot, and lipid accumulation measurement.

Results: Notably, our investigations revealed that MOTS-c increased the survival of C2C12 cells at doses of 10 and 100 nM (p<0.01) and stimulated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase within 5 min of incubation (p<0.05). Remarkably, these effects were not observed in L6 cells; however, both cell lines showed a reduced rate of proliferation. Furthermore, MOTS-c promotes the differentiation of C2C12 cells by increasing the expression of muscle regulatory factors, but it does not produce such an effect in L6 cells. Additionally, cells were treated with physiological concentrations of free fatty acids and MOTS-c, unveiling an augmentation in lipid accumulation observed in L6 cells and a decrease in lipid accumulation in C2C12 cells.

Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings have suggested a diverse response to MOTS-c depending on the type of muscle fibers, particularly in the domains of survival, cell differentiation, and lipid accumulation.

Quiescent pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) represent only a very low proportion of the pancreatic tissue, but their activation leads to stroma remodeling and fibrosis associated with pathologies such as chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PSC activation can be induced by various stresses, including acidosis, growth factors (PDGF, TGFβ), hypoxia, high pressure, or intercellular communication with pancreatic cancer cells. Activated PSC targeting represents a promising therapeutic strategy, but little is known regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation of PSCs. Identification of new biomarkers of PSC activation associated with desmoplasia in chronic pancreatitis and PDAC could lead to new therapeutic targets for exocrine pancreatic disease treatments. Ion channels and transporters are transmembrane proteins involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including PDAC. They are well known to act as biosensors of the tissue microenvironment, and they can be easily accessible for drugs. However, their role in PSC activation is not fully understood. In this review, we briefly discuss the role of activated PSCs in pancreas inflammation and pathological fibrosis (associated with chronic pancreatitis and PDAC), and we describe the role of specific ion channels and transporters (Ca²⁺, K⁺, Na⁺ and Cl^-) in these processes in the light of recent literature.

Background/aims: This study investigates how pH levels affect the characteristics of biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. Cassava peel starch's abundance and biodegradability make it a promising candidate for sustainable packaging. The study seeks to improve film qualities such as thickness, density, moisture content, solubility, and optical properties by altering pH levels. Understanding these effects is critical for increasing the acceptability of cassava peel starch biopolymers in a variety of industrial applications, notably environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Methods: Starch extracted from cassava peel was used to produce films using the casting method at specified pH levels. The films were evaluated for thickness and density using classical methods. Moisture content was determined following the AOAC 930.15 (2000) protocol. Color analysis was conducted using the CIELab color space technique. Water solubility and solubility in acidic (HCl) and alkaline (NaOH) solutions were assessed through chemical solubility tests performed by gravimetry.

Results: The study investigated how pH impacts biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. The film thickness varied greatly across pH levels, with pH 10.5 creating the thickest films (0.158 ± 0.012 mm) and pH 6.5 providing the thinnest (0.118 ± 0.015 mm). Density varied slightly, from 1.393 ± 0.122 g/cc to 1.551 ± 0.153 g/cc. Moisture content fluctuated significantly, affecting biodegradability. Color study indicated pH-dependent variations in transparency and opacity, with higher pH values resulting in larger color deviations (∆E). Water solubility remained constant, but NaOH solubility dropped with increasing pH, peaking at pH 7.5 (23.44 ± 2.82%).

Conclusion: This work investigates the use of cassava peel starch for biopolymer synthesis at controlled pH levels. The findings demonstrate the material's practicality and provide critical insights for enhancing film qualities, particularly in a variety of industrial applications and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Background/aims: Bruise is the extravasation of blood that may be mild or severe. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are one of the most promising cells used in regenerative medicine for treating many disorders. We aimed to evaluate the efficiency of BM-MSCs in treating cutaneous bruises.

Methods: 78 male albino rats were equally divided into 3 groups, control group (G1), bruise wound group (G2) and Bruised animals treated with BM-MSCs group (G3). The sequences of color changes were recorded. Animals were sacrificed and skin samples were collected for histopathological examination and analyzing the mRNA expression rate of transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrotic factor-α (TNF-α), Heat shock protein-90 α (HSP-90α), Metalloprotiens-9 (MMP-9), and microRNA-21 (miR-21), which incorporated in the healing process and the apoptotic rat.

Results: Subcutaneous injection of BM-MSCs reduced the color intensity of the bruised skin, with statistically significant upregulation of TGF-β, TNF-α, and HSP-90α, significant down-regulation of MMP-9 and miR-21 mRNA expression rate, and significant reduction of the apoptotic rate and the inflammatory cells.

Conclusion: BM-MSCs have a promising improvement in the healing process of bruises by regulating the expression rate of TGF-β- IL-6- TNF-α- HSP-90α- MMP-9- miR-21 and reducing the apoptotic rate and inflammatory cell infiltration.

Thiazide, thiazide-like, and loop diuretics are primarily known for inhibiting members of the SLC12A family of Cl^- transporters, which include the Na+Cl^- cotransporter (NCC), Na⁺K⁺2Cl^- cotransporters (NKCC1 and NKCC2) and K⁺Cl^- symporters (KCC1-4). While the main pharmacological effect of these diuretics is diuresis, achieved by promoting the excretion of excess water and salt through the kidneys, they have intriguing pharmacological effects beyond their traditional ones which cannot be solely attributed to their effects on renal salt transport. Of particular interest is their role in modulating inflammatory processes. These diuretics appear to exert both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially by influencing various pathways involved in immune responses. For example, NKCC1 has been implicated in the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL1β), interleukin-8 (IL8) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), which are critical mediators of immune cell activity during inflammation. The underlying mechanisms through which NKCC1 contributes to inflammation may involve key signaling pathways, such as that mediated by the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB). This pathway is crucial for the activation and assembly of the inflammasome, as well as for regulating the phagocytic activity of immune cells. In addition, NKCC1 can control (or be controlled) by reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, which contribute to the pathogenesis of various inflammatory conditions as well. Diuretics may help mitigate inflammation-related tissue damage by scavenging reactive oxygen species and boosting antioxidant defenses, thereby restoring redox balance in inflamed tissues. Despite these intriguing effects, the precise molecular pathways through which thiazide, thiazide-like and loop diuretics may modulate inflammatory responses remain poorly understood and warrant further investigation. This aspect of their pharmacological profile highlights their potential for therapeutic use beyond the scope of traditional diuretic functions.

Background/aims: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, defined as diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester, often asymptomatic. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of olive leaf extracts and stem cells in mitigating GDM-induced complications, particularly focusing on renal function, oxidative stress, and pancreatic cell regeneration.

Methods: Measurements were made in gravid female rats with or without intraperitoneal administration of Streptozotocin (35 mg/kg body weight). Biochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate renal function markers (urea, uric acid, creatinine) and oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase levels). Histopathological and immunohistopathological evaluations of kidney tissues were performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and specific markers (p53, Insulin, and PCNA) to assess cellular changes.

Results: The diabetic group exhibited significantly elevated levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine (p<0.01) compared to the control group. Treatment with stem cells and olive leaf extracts significantly reduced these levels. Malondialdehyde levels were elevated in the diabetic group (p<0.01) but showed marked improvement in the treatment groups. Additionally, glutathione and superoxide dismutase activities were diminished in the diabetic rats (p<0.05) but increased following treatment. Histopathological and immunohistopathological analyses revealed cellular regeneration and improved tissue morphology in the treatment groups compared to the diabetic group.

Conclusion: Stem cells and olive leaf extracts exhibit significant therapeutic potential in ameliorating renal dysfunction, oxidative stress, and tissue damage associated with GDM, highlighting their role in enhancing pancreatic cell regeneration.

This review provides an analysis of the current literature on the health and nutrition of blood donors, examining key aspects that affect the quality of donated blood and the well-being of donors. The review discusses effective iron absorption facilitated by key nutrients and presents evidence on the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and folic acid. The review examines the differences in iron levels between men and women and highlights the role of sex hormones in regulating iron metabolism. In addition, the review discusses the link between psycho-emotional well-being and diet, showing that proper dietary habits can improve mental health, reduce stress, and enhance the donation experience. This article provides practical recommendations to support donor well-being and the effectiveness of blood donation programmes worldwide. By highlighting the differences between a modern diet and a diet tailored specifically for blood donors, we aim to emphasise the importance of a nutrient-dense diet for blood donors, which is critical for effective recovery and overall health maintenance. It is important to understand and incorporate different nutrient-dense foods that influence iron absorption for optimal health in blood donors. Donor health is also influenced by regular physical activity and psycho-emotional well-being. The 'healthy donor effect' and its implications for maintaining higher standards of donor health are explored in this review. This article highlights the fact that the diet of blood donors is influenced by gender, as men and women have different nutritional needs and physiological responses, particularly with regard to iron levels and recovery. The importance of enhancing or inhibiting iron absorption provides valuable evidence for food fortification as a cost-effective solution to reduce iron deficiency in blood donors.

Background/aims: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that severely affects cognitive functions and memory. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. However, traditional diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, are costly and less accessible. This study aims to develop an automated, cost-effective digital diagnostic approach using deep learning (DL) and computer-aided detection (CAD) methods for early AD identification and classification.

Methods: The proposed framework utilizes pretrained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for feature extraction, integrated with two classifiers: multi-class support vector machine (MSVM) and artificial neural network (ANN). A dataset categorized into four groups-non-demented, very mild demented, mild demented, and moderate demented-was employed for evaluation. To optimize the classification process, a texture-based algorithm was applied for feature reduction, enhancing computational efficiency and reducing processing time.

Results: The system demonstrated high statistical performance, achieving an accuracy of 91%, precision of 95%, and recall of 90%. Among the initial set of twenty-two texture features, seven were identified as particularly effective in differentiating normal cases from mild AD stages, significantly streamlining the classification process. These results validate the robustness and efficacy of the proposed DL-based CAD system.

Conclusion: This study presents a reliable and affordable solution for early AD detection and diagnosis. The proposed system outperforms existing state-of-the-art models and offers a valuable tool for timely treatment planning. Future research should explore its application to larger, more diverse datasets and investigate integration with other imaging modalities, such as MRI, to further enhance diagnostic precision.

Background/aims: Phenobarbital (PB), commonly used for epilepsy management, is associated with testicular dysfunction after prolonged use. This study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of cranberry (CB) and vitamin C (Vit-C) on PB-induced reproductive toxicity in rats.

Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups. G1 was the negative control, while G2 received PB (160 mg/kg orally) for one month. Groups G3 and G4 received PB followed by CB (500 mg/kg) and Vit-C (27 mg/kg) treatments, respectively. G5 received PB followed by a combined CB and Vit-C regimen. The levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reduced (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined using standard biochemical assays. Histological changes in testicular tissues were assessed, and caspase-3 expression was quantified via immunohistochemistry.

Results: PB exposure increased MDA levels, reduced SOD and CAT activity, and disrupted testicular histology, with elevated caspase-3 expression indicating heightened apoptosis. Treatment with CB or Vit-C significantly restored antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced MDA levels, and ameliorated histological abnormalities. Co-treatment with CB and Vit-C yielded the most pronounced protective effects, including reduced caspase-3 expression and improved testicular structure.

Conclusion: CB and Vit-C demonstrate significant protective effects against PB-induced testicular toxicity, likely due to their antioxidative and anti-apoptotic properties. Co-administration of these agents offers an effective strategy to mitigate reproductive toxicities associated with prolonged PB use.