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Background/Objectives: In recent years the global incidence of cancer during pregnancy is rising, occurring in 1 out of every 1000 pregnancies. In this regard, the most used chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer are alkylating agents such as cyclophosphamide (Cp). Despite its great efficacy, has been associated with the production of oxidative stress and DNA damage, leading to embryotoxicity, genotoxicity, and teratogenicity in the developing conceptus. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective role of phycobiliproteins (PBP) derived from Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) in reducing Cp-induced embryotoxicity and genotoxicity in pregnant CD1 mice. Methods: Pregnant CD1 mice were divided into five groups: control, Cp 20 mg/kg, and three doses of PBP (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) + Cp co-treatment. PBP were administered orally from day 6 to 10.5 dpc, followed by a single intraperitoneal dose of Cp on 10.5 dpc. Embryos were collected at 12.5 dpc to assess morphological development and vascular alterations, while maternal DNA damage was evaluated using micronucleus assays and antioxidant enzyme activity in maternal plasma. Results: PBP exhibited a dose-dependent protective effect against Cp-induced damage. The 200 mg/kg PBP dose significantly reduced developmental abnormalities, micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes, and oxidative stress, (as evidenced by increased SOD and GPx activity). Conclusions: Phycobiliproteins from Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) effectively reduced Cp-induced morphological and vascular alterations in embryos and genotoxicity in pregnant mice. These findings highlight their potential as a complementary therapy to mitigate teratogenic risks during chemotherapy. Further research is needed to optimize dosing and explore clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of Calocybe indica extract (CIE) in alleviating liver and kidney toxicity caused by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) in rats. Methods: Six groups of five rats each were used in this study. Group A was the control while groups B to F received 3 mg/kg CdCl2 subcutaneously. Group B was induced with CdCl2 alone for 21 days. Orally, 100 mg/kg of vitamin C, and 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of CIE were used to treat groups C, D, E, and F respectively. Data were analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS), and results were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Results: Group B had higher liver and kidney weights, and lower body weight compared to control group (p = 0.05). Treatment with CIE increased body weight in CdCl2-induced rats lowers serum levels of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin, improves liver and kidney function, and significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Calocybe indica (CIE) extract increases body weight, lowers serum levels of liver enzymes, improves kidney function and significantly lowers SOD activity. Calocybe indica extract may serve as a potential pharmacological candidate or therapeutic alternative for managing hepato-renal injuries. Subsequent molecular studies to ascertain its bioactive compounds will pave the way for the discovery of drug candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intake of excessive ethanol will activate an alternative ethanol metabolic pathway in the liver, resulting in the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which further leads to alcoholic liver injury (ALI). Although several molecular antioxidants have been utilized in clinics for treating ALI, their efficacies are still less satisfactory. In this work, a nanocatalytic antioxidation therapeutic strategy is proposed for ALI treatment by constructing amorphous Co(OH)2 nanosheets with catalytic antioxidative property. The bis(μ‐hydroxo)CoIICoII dinuclear active sites of Co(OH)2 nanosheets are capable of coordinating with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with significantly reduced thermodynamic barrier to form a dihydroxyl adduct bis(μ‐hydroxo)CoIII(OH)CoIII(OH) favorable for catalytic H2O2 disproportionation, while amorphous and ultrathin structure further facilitates the reaction, resulting in a high catalytic efficiency (Km=59.31 mM). Thanks to the inherent hepatic passive targeting ability of nanomaterials, the antioxidative nanosheets can accumulate in liver region efficiently after intravenous administration (35.5 % ID/g accumulation efficiency), enabling efficient catalytic antioxidation in the liver to mitigate hepatic oxidative stress, protect hepatocytes from apoptosis/ferroptosis. This study provides a new methodology of nanocatalytic antioxidation for treating ALI and other hepatic diseases related to oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury (SCI) initiates a cascade of secondary damage driven by oxidative stress, characterized by the excessive production of reactive oxygen species and other reactive molecules, which exacerbate cellular and tissue damage through the activation of deleterious signaling pathways. This review provides a comprehensive and critical evaluation of recent advancements in antioxidant-based therapeutic strategies for SCI, including natural compounds, RNA-based therapies, stem cell interventions, and biomaterial applications. It emphasizes the limitations of single-regimen approaches, particularly their limited efficacy and suboptimal delivery to injured spinal cord tissue, while highlighting the synergistic potential of combination therapies that integrate multiple modalities to address the multifaceted pathophysiology of SCI. By analyzing emerging trends and current limitations, this review identifies key challenges and proposes future directions, including the refinement of antioxidant delivery systems, the development of multi-targeted approaches, and strategies to overcome the structural complexities of the spinal cord. This work underscores the pressing need for innovative and integrative therapeutic approaches to advance the clinical translation of antioxidant-based interventions and improve outcomes for SCI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Directions article examines the mechanisms by which a father's age impacts the health and wellbeing of his children. Such impacts are significant and include adverse birth outcomes, dominant genetic conditions, neuropsychiatric disorders, and a variety of congenital developmental defects. As well as age, a wide variety of environmental and lifestyle factors are also known to impact offspring health via changes mediated by the male germ line. This picture of a dynamic germ line responsive to a wide range of intrinsic and extrinsic factors contrasts with the results of trio studies indicating that the incidence of mutations in the male germ line is low and exhibits a linear, monotonic increase with paternal age (∼two new mutations per year). While the traditional explanation for this pattern of mutation has been the metronomic plod of replication errors, an alternative model pivots around the 'faulty male' hypothesis. According to this concept, the genetic integrity of the male germ line can be dynamically impacted by age and a variety of other factors, and it is the aberrant repair of such damage that drives mutagenesis. Fortunately, DNA proofreading during spermatogenesis is extremely effective and these mutant cells are either repaired or deleted by apoptosis/ferroptosis. There appear to be only two mechanisms by which mutant germ cells can escape this apoptotic fate: (i) if the germ cells acquire a mutation that by enhancing proliferation or suppressing apoptosis, permits their clonal expansion (selfish selection hypothesis) or (ii) if a genetically damaged spermatozoon manages to fertilize an oocyte, which then fixes the damage as a mutation (or epimutation) as a result of defective DNA repair (oocyte collusion hypothesis). Exploration of these proposed mechanisms should not only help us better understand the aetiology of paternal age effects but also inform potential avenues of remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing evidence that exposure to weak electromagnetic fields (EMFs) generated by modern telecommunications or household appliances has physiological consequences, including reports of electromagnetic field hypersensitivity (EHS) leading to adverse health effects. Although symptoms can be serious, no underlying mechanism for EHS is known and there is no general cure or effective therapy. Here, we present the case study of a self-reported EHS patient whose symptoms include severe headaches, generalized fatigue, cardiac arrhythmia, attention and memory deficit, and generalized systemic pain within minutes of exposure to telecommunications (Wifi, cellular phones), high tension lines and electronic devices. Tests for cerebral, cardiovascular, and other physiological anomalies proved negative, as did serological tests for inflammation, allergies, infections, auto-immune conditions, and hormonal imbalance. However, further investigation revealed deficits in cellular anti-oxidants and increased radical scavenging enzymes, indicative of systemic oxidative stress. Significantly, there was a large increase in circulating antibodies for oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDLox), byproducts of oxidative stress accumulating in membranes of vascular cells. Because a known primary effect of EMF exposure is to increase the concentration of cellular oxidants, we propose that pathology in this patient may be causally related to a resulting increase in LDLox synthesis. This in turn could trigger an exaggerated auto-immune response consistent with EHS symptoms. This case report thereby provides a testable mechanistic framework for EHS pathology with therapeutic implications for this debilitating and poorly understood condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Advanced maternal age is associated with decreased oocyte quantity and quality and in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates. This study aimed to investigate whether melatonin supplementation can improve IVF outcomes in women of advanced maternal age by modulating cuproptosis and ferroptosis. Methods This prospective cohort study included 161 women aged 35–45 years undergoing IVF-frozen embryo transfer cycles. Participants were assigned to either melatonin (n = 86, 2 mg daily for ≥ 8 weeks) or control (n = 75) groups. Cumulus cells were analyzed for cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related gene expression. Additional experiments were conducted on the HGL5 human granulosa cell line to assess mitochondrial function and metabolic reprogramming. Results Melatonin supplementation significantly improved IVF outcomes in women aged ≥ 38 years, increasing clinical pregnancy rates (46.0% vs. 20.3%, P

Background: Advanced maternal age is associated with decreased oocyte quantity and quality and in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates. This study aimed to investigate whether melatonin supplementation can improve IVF outcomes in women of advanced maternal age by modulating cuproptosis and ferroptosis. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 161 women aged 35–45 years undergoing IVF-frozen embryo transfer cycles. Participants were assigned to either melatonin (n = 86, 2 mg daily for ≥ 8 weeks) or control (n = 75) groups. Cumulus cells were analyzed for cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related gene expression. Additional experiments were conducted on the HGL5 human granulosa cell line to assess mitochondrial function and metabolic reprogramming. Results: Melatonin supplementation significantly improved IVF outcomes in women aged ≥ 38 years, increasing clinical pregnancy rates (46.0% vs. 20.3%, P < 0.01), ongoing pregnancy rates (36.5% vs. 15.3%, P < 0.01), and live birth rates (33.3% vs. 15.3%, P < 0.05). In cumulus cells from patients, gene expression analysis revealed that melatonin modulated cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related genes, including ATP7B and GPX4, with more pronounced effects in the ≥ 38 years group. This suggests melatonin enhances cellular resilience against oxidative stress and metal-induced toxicity in the ovarian microenvironment. In vitro studies using HGL5 cells showed melatonin reduced oxidative stress markers, improved mitochondrial function, restored expression of glycolysis and TCA cycle-related genes and modulated cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related gene expression. These findings provide mechanistic insight into melatonin's protective effects against regulated cell death in ovarian cells, potentially explaining the improved IVF outcomes observed. Conclusions: Melatonin supplementation significantly improved IVF outcomes in women of advanced maternal age, particularly those ≥ 38 years old, likely by modulating cuproptosis and ferroptosis and enhancing mitochondrial function in cumulus and granulosa cells. These results suggest that melatonin could be a promising adjuvant therapy for improving IVF success rates in older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a non traumatic hemorrhage that occurs in a certain part of the brain. It usually leads to brain cell damage. According to a large number of experimental research, oxidative stress is an important pathophysiological processes of cerebral hemorrhage. In this paper, we aim to determine how changes in oxidative stress biomarkers indicate the damage degree of cerebral hemorrhage, and to explore and summarize potential treatments or interventions. We found that patients with cerebral hemorrhage are characterized by increased levels of oxidative stress markers, such as total malondialdehyde (MDA), F2 isoprostaglandin, hydroxynonenal, myeloperoxidase and protein hydroxyl. Therefore, the changes of oxidative stress caused by ICH on these markers can be used to evaluate and diagnose ICH, predict its prognosis, and guide preventive treatment to turn to antioxidant based treatment as a new treatment alternative.

Background: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a key component of mitochondrial energy production and a potent antioxidant, plays an essential role in addressing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Its applications span cardiovascular health, infectious diseases, neurological conditions, reproductive health, and fatigue management. However, gaps remain in understanding its optimal dosing, long-term impact, and efficacy across diverse health conditions. Methods: This review synthesized findings from clinical trials, meta-analyses, and observational studies. A systematic search of PubMed and ScienceDirect was conducted, selecting studies based on methodological rigor and relevance to CoQ10’s mechanisms, efficacy, and safety. Results: CoQ10 supplementation reduced cardiovascular mortality, alleviated migraine symptoms, improved mitochondrial function, and decreased oxidative stress. Promising but inconclusive evidence supports its role in managing statin-induced myopathy and enhancing reproductive outcomes. CoQ10 was consistently shown to be safe and well-tolerated. Conclusion: CoQ10 demonstrates significant therapeutic potential across several health conditions. Its antioxidant and bioenergetic benefits are well-documented, but further research is needed to refine dosing strategies and evaluate long-term effects. CoQ10 remains a promising complementary therapy for modern health challenges.

Abstract Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull for several reasons, such as cerebrospinal fluid overproduction, circulatory obstruction, and malabsorption. Excess fluid causes the ventricular system and subarachnoid space to enlarge due to the squeezing of cerebrospinal fluid. Hydrocephalus is clinically manifested by increased intracranial pressure and impaired brain function. It is a neurological disease with a variety of complications that affect the body and require long‐term and continuous treatment; however, current treatment methods are relatively limited, whether medical or surgical. Studies have shown that oxidative stress plays an important role in the formation and development of hydrocephalus, but it has not been systematically reviewed in current studies. In this paper, oxidative stress in hydrocephalus formation and its potential role were systematically reviewed, including the mechanism of oxidative stress, related signaling pathways, and pathological changes in oxidative stress formation. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the possibility of oxidative stress as a new therapeutic target of hydrocephalus treatment, expecting that it will be helpful for future research.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic immune-mediated condition that affects the digestive systemand includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Although the exact etiology of IBD remains uncertain, dysfunctional immunoregulation of the gut is believed to be the main culprit. Amongst the immunoregulatory factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), components of the oxidative stress event, are produced at abnormally high levels in IBD. Their destructive effects may contribute to the disease's initiation and propagation, as they damage the gut lining and activate inflammatory signaling pathways, further exacerbating the inflammation. Oxidative stressmarkers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8- OHdG), and serum-free thiols (R-SH), can be measured in the blood and stool of patients with IBD. These markers are elevated in patients with IBD, and their levels correlatewith the severity of the disease. Thus, oxidative stressmarkers can be used not only in IBD diagnosis but also in monitoring the response to treatment. It can also be targeted in IBD treatment through the use of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and N-acetylcysteine. In this review, we summarize the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of IBD, its diagnostic targets, and the potential application of antioxidant therapies to manage and treat IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection inhibits mito-chondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and elevates mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS, mROS) which activates hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1a), shifting metabolism toward glycolysis to drive viral biogenesis but also causing the release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and activation of innate immunity. To determine whether mitochondrially targeted antioxidants could mitigate these viral effects, we challenged mice expressing human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) with SARS-CoV-2 and intervened using transgenic and pharmacological mitochondrially targeted catalytic antioxidants. Transgenic expression of mitochondrially targeted catalase (mCAT) or systemic treatment with EUK8 decreased weight loss, clinical severity, and circulating levels of mtDNA; as well as reduced lung levels of HIF-1α, viral proteins, and inflammatory cytokines. RNA-sequencing of infected lungs revealed that mCAT and Eukarion 8 (EUK8) up-regulated OXPHOS gene expression and down-regulated HIF-1α and its target genes as well as innate immune gene expression. These data demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 pathology can be mitigated by catalytically reducing mROS, potentially providing a unique host-directed pharmacological therapy for COVID-19 which is not subject to viral mutational resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), involves oxidative stress caused by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Small-molecule antioxidants have not been approved for antioxidant chemotherapy because of severe adverse effects that collapse redox homeostasis, even in healthy tissues. To overcome these disadvantages, we have been developing poly(ethylene glycol)- block -poly(cysteine) (PEG- block -PCys)-based self-assembling polymer nanoparticles (NanoCyses), releasing Cys after in vivo degradation by endogenous enzymes, to obtain antioxidant effects without adverse effects. However, a comprehensive investigation of the effects of polymer design on therapeutic outcomes has not yet been conducted to develop our NanoCys system for antioxidant chemotherapy. In this study, we synthesized different poly(L -cysteine) (PCys) chains whose sulfanyl groups were protected by tert -butyl thiol (S t Bu) and butyryl (Bu) groups to change the reactivity of the side chains, affording NanoCys(SS) and NanoCys(Bu), respectively. To elucidate the importance of the polymer design, these NanoCyses were orally administered to MASH model mice as a model of oxidative stress-related diseases. Consequently, the acyl-protective NanoCys(Bu) significantly suppressed hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress compared to NanoCys(SS). Furthermore, we substantiated that shorter PCys were much better than longer PCys for therapeutic outcomes and the effects related to the liberation properties of Cys from these nanoparticles. Owing to its antioxidant functions, NanoCyses also significantly attenuated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in the MASH mouse model. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hypertension is a major risk factor for preeclampsia (PE), associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity. We previously demonstrated that pregnant stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) display a spontaneous PE-like phenotype with distinct placental, fetal, and maternal features. Here, we hypothesized that supplementation with alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a potent antioxidant, during early pregnancy could ameliorate the PE phenotype in this model. To test this hypothesis, timed pregnancies were established using 10 to 12-week-old SHRSP females (n = 19–16/group), which were assigned to two treatment groups: ALA (injected intraperitoneally with 25 mg/kg body weight ALA on gestation day (GD1, GD8, and GD12) or control, receiving saline following the same protocol. Our analysis of maternal signs showed that ALA prevented the pregnancy-dependent maternal blood pressure rise (GD14 blood pressure control 169.3 ± 19.4 mmHg vs. 146.1 ± 13.4 mmHg, p = 0.0001) and ameliorated renal function, as noted by the increased creatinine clearance and improved glomerular histology in treated dams. Treatment also improved the fetal growth restriction (FGR) phenotype, leading to increased fetal weights (ALA 2.19 ± 0.5 g vs. control 1.98 ± 0.3 g, p = 0.0074) and decreased cephalization indexes, indicating a more symmetric fetal growth pattern. This was associated with improved placental efficiency, decreased oxidative stress marker expression on GD14, and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) levels on GD20. In conclusion, ALA supplementation mitigated maternal signs and improved placental function and fetal growth in SHRSP pregnancies, emerging as a promising therapy in pregnancies at high risk for PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effects of joint surgery through arthroscopy, intraarticular medication, and antioxidant therapy on the antioxidant system and lipid peroxidation in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The study examines the ability of high-molecular weight hyaluronan, sodium hyaluronate, and oral Vitamin E to modulate oxidative stress markers in the knee joint. Methods and Materials: There were 60 patients diagnosed with KOA that were divided into four groups according to the type of treatment for this prospective study at the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Blood and synovial fluid samples collected before and after treatment were evaluated for superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, MDA) catalase (CAT). SPSS software was used to perform statistical analysis where the significance level was set at p

Spinal cord injury (SCI) initiates a cascade of secondary damage driven by oxidative stress, characterized by the excessive production of reactive oxygen species and other reactive molecules, which exacerbate cellular and tissue damage through the activation of deleterious signaling pathways. This review provides a comprehensive and critical evaluation of recent advancements in antioxidant-based therapeutic strategies for SCI, including natural compounds, RNA-based therapies, stem cell interventions, and biomaterial applications. It emphasizes the limitations of single-regimen approaches, particularly their limited efficacy and suboptimal delivery to injured spinal cord tissue, while highlighting the synergistic potential of combination therapies that integrate multiple modalities to address the multifaceted pathophysiology of SCI. By analyzing emerging trends and current limitations, this review identifies key challenges and proposes future directions, including the refinement of antioxidant delivery systems, the development of multi-targeted approaches, and strategies to overcome the structural complexities of the spinal cord. This work underscores the pressing need for innovative and integrative therapeutic approaches to advance the clinical translation of antioxidant-based interventions and improve outcomes for SCI patients.

Oxidative stress, caused by an excessive amount of reactive oxygen species is a major factor in the pathophysiology of complications following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Ascorbic acid, a vital antioxidant, has been employed in TBI therapy, but its instability, limited bioavailability, rapid oxidation, and pro-oxidant effects pose significant limitations. To overcome these drawbacks, the ascorbic acid was chemically modified resulting in a fat-soluble L-ascorbyl-6-palmitate. The effects of L-ascorbyl-6-palmitate on oxidative stress biomarkers in TBI rats were subsequently evaluated. TBI was developed in rats by a weight drop method. The study involved five experimental groups: ascorbic acid group, L-ascorbyl-6- palmitate group, dimethyl sulfoxide group, traumatized non-treated group, and non-traumatized non-treated control group. A total of twenty-five rats were used in the experiment, with five rats in each group (n=5). The levels of malondialdehyde and the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were assessed in serum and brain tissue samples. In both serum and brain tissue, ascorbic acid, L-ascorbyl-6-palmitate, and dimethyl sulfoxide showed significant (P<0.05) elevation in enzyme activities and reduction in malondialdehyde levels compared to the traumatized non-treated group. Additionally, L-ascorbyl-6-palmitate treatment demonstrated higher antioxidant potential and scavenging ability than ascorbic acid treatment, as evidenced by significantly (P<0.05) increased superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. These findings demonstrate the neuroprotective effects of Lascorbyl-6-palmitate in managing TBI-induced oxidative stress. Further studies should investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and longterm effects of L-ascorbyl-6-palmitate treatment on neurological recovery and functional outcomes in TBI, as well as explore its potential synergistic effects with other antioxidants or neuroprotective strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the principal culprit behind chronic kidney disease (CKD), ultimately developing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and necessitating costly dialysis or kidney transplantation. The limited therapeutic efficiency among individuals with DKD is a result of our finite understanding of its pathogenesis. DKD is the result of complex interactions between various factors. Oxidative stress is a fundamental factor that can establish a link between hyperglycemia and the vascular complications frequently encountered in diabetes, particularly DKD. It is crucial to recognize the essential and integral role of oxidative stress in the development of diabetic vascular complications, particularly DKD. Hyperglycemia is the primary culprit that can trigger an upsurge in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), ultimately sparking oxidative stress. The main endogenous sources of ROS include mitochondrial ROS production, NADPH oxidases (Nox), uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), xanthine oxidase (XO), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), and lipoxygenase. Under persistent high glucose levels, immune cells, the complement system, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), protein kinase C (PKC), polyol pathway, and the hexosamine pathway are activated. Consequently, the oxidant–antioxidant balance within the body is disrupted, which triggers a series of reactions in various downstream pathways, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), transforming growth factor beta/p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (TGF-β/p38-MAPK), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling. The disease might persist even if strict glucose control is achieved, which can be attributed to epigenetic modifications. The treatment of DKD remains an unresolved issue. Therefore, reducing ROS is an intriguing therapeutic target. The clinical trials have shown that bardoxolone methyl, a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activator, blood glucose-lowering drugs, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists can effectively slow down the progression of DKD by reducing oxidative stress. Other antioxidants, including vitamins, lipoic acid, Nox inhibitors, epigenetic regulators, and complement inhibitors, present a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of DKD. In this review, we conduct a thorough assessment of both preclinical studies and current findings from clinical studies that focus on targeted interventions aimed at manipulating these pathways. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in this area and identify key areas for future exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bladder cancer (BCa) is the most common genitourinary malignancy, with a high global incidence and recurrence rate that is paired with an increasing caregiver burden and higher financial cost, in addition to increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Histologically, BCa is categorized into non-muscle invasive, muscle invasive, and metastatic BCa, on the basis of which the therapeutic strategy is determined. Despite all innovations and recent advances in BCa research, conventional therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery fall short in the complete management of this important malignancy. Besides this worrying trend, the molecular basis of BCa development also remains poorly understood. Burgeoning evidence from experimental and clinical studies suggests that oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and the body's antioxidant production plays an integral role in BCa development and progression. Hence, ROS-induced oxidative stress-related pathways are currently under investigation as potential therapeutic targets of BCa. This review focuses on our current understanding regarding ROS-associated pathways in BCa pathogenesis and progression, as well as on antioxidants as potential adjuvants to conventional BCa therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective To identify the impact of redox imbalance on the clinical evolution of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and carry out a qualitative and quantitative projection of the benefits of vitamin D supplementation. Data sources Combinations of the keywords polycystic ovary syndrome, vitamin D, oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, antioxidant, and free radicals were used in PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. The last search was conducted on August 22, 2023.Selection of studies: Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, studies were selected considering a low risk of bias, published in the last 5 years in English, which investigated the effects of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, focusing on oxidative stress markers. Of the 136 articles retrieved, 6 intervention studies (445 women) were included. Data collection The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using the Jadad scale, and analysis and visualization of continuous data were performed using Review Manager 5.4.1, summarized as standardized mean differences (SMD) with confidence intervals (CI) of 95%. Data synthesis Vitamin D effectively reduced malondialdehyde (P=0.002) and total testosterone (P=0.0004) levels and increased total antioxidant capacity levels (P=0.01). Although possible improvements in the modified Ferriman–Gallwey hirsutism score, levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, and free androgen index were identified and the results were not statistically significant. Conclusion Vitamin D is a promising alternative for the treatment of PCOS with a positive influence on the oxidative, metabolic, and endocrine disorders of this syndrome.

Oxidative stress is a key mechanism underlying hypertension. Therefore, antioxidant therapy is an attractive concept for hypertension. Antioxidant therapy has been shown to have a significant impact on blood pressure reduction in various studies. The duration of treatment before observing results can vary depending on the specific antioxidant used, the dosage, and the individual’s health status. Antioxidant therapy by reducing oxidative stress and improving endothelial function reduces the high blood pressure. Antioxidants may achieve their antihypertensive effects by reducing the formation of advanced glycation end products and aldehydes that impair vascular function and improving insulin resistance and endothelial function and also by normalizing calcium channels and peripheral vascular resistance.

Oxidative stress can be associated with hyperoxia and hypoxia and is characterized by an increase in reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species generated by an underlying disease process or by supplemental oxygen that exceeds the neutralization capacity of the organ system. ROS and RNS acting as free radicals can inactive several enzymes and vasodilators in the nitric oxide pathway promoting pulmonary vasoconstriction resulting in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Studies in animal models of PPHN have shown high ROS/RNS that is further increased by hyperoxic ventilation. In addition, antioxidant therapy increased PaO2 in these models, but clinical trials are lacking. We recommend targeting preductal SpO2 between 90 and 97%, PaO2 between 55 and 80 mmHg and avoiding FiO2 > 0.6-0.8 if possible during PPHN management. This review highlights the role of oxidative and nitrosative stress markers on PPHN and potential therapeutic interventions that may alleviate the consequences of increased oxidant stress during ventilation with supplemental oxygen.

Age-related macular degeneration(ARMD)is one of the leading causes of irreversible visual impairment worldwide, and the number of patients is increasing with the aging of the population, with dry ARMD accounting for about 90% of cases. Effective treatments for dry ARMD are currently lacking, making it a prominent area of research. Pharmacotherapy, targeting pathogenic factors such as oxidative damage, inflammation, and vascular issues contributing to ARMD, is one of the main treatments and some drugs have been shown to slow the progression of ARMD. This article reviews drug treatments for dry ARMD, including antioxidant drugs, complement biological agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants, vasodilators, neurotrophic drugs, as well as traditional Chinese medicine. It summarizes their mechanisms and recent clinical research to contribute valuable insights for the treatment of dry ARMD and the development of novel therapeutic agents.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is almost always associated with comorbidities such as diabetes, hyperuricemia/gout, urolithiasis, often with urinary tract infection, hypertension, polycystic kidney disease, and other conditions. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is an inherited kidney disease (1/1000–1/400 worldwide) affecting mainly adults, caused predominantly by mutations in PKD1 (85–90 % of cases) and PKD2 genes (10–15 % of cases), which encode polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 proteins, respectively. In adults with preserved kidney function, the prevalence of gout increases from 1 to 2 % (hyperuricemia up to 11 %), in patients with CKD stage 4 — up to 32 % (hyperuricemia up to 80 %). 70 % of patients with gout and 50 % of patients with hyperuricemia have stage 2 CKD. CKD contributes to a decrease in the urinary excretion of uric acid. In patients with CKD, hyperuricemia is considered to be a serum uric acid level > 6 mg/dL in women and > 7 mg/dL in men. Hyperuricemia is very often observed in hypertension and type 2 diabetes. In patients with kidney disease, diabetes is a major factor of mortality and morbidity. Diabetic nephropathy can be suspected in a patient with type 2 diabetes in the presence of albuminuria and/or diabetic retinopathy. Signs of diabetic nephropathy: basement membrane thickening, mesangial expansion, and increased vascular permeability to albumin induced by nonenzymatic glycation of collagen and laminin. Comorbidity has a negative impact on patients’ health due to increased morbidity and mortality. Such patients are at risk of rapid progression of CKD into the end stage, which requires renal replacement therapy. Therefore, early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CKD complications are important for such patients. This article highlights the impact of antioxidant therapy and phytoneering on the course of CKD in patients with comorbidities.

The trauma of surgery induces systemic stress that alters homeostasis and develops postoperative complications, particularly in high-risk patients. Surgical stress is produced by an acute inflammatory process and by the imbalance between the levels of pro-oxidant molecules and the activity of antioxidant systems. This imbalance is known as oxidative stress (OS). These two mechanisms underlie perioperative complications are reduced with anaesthetic management since some anaesthetics have antioxidant capacity. OS could negatively impact all forms of major surgery, particularly in elderly patients and patients with comorbidities. This review aims to present the concept and cellular bases of OS and its relationship with the most common complications in the perioperative period of cardiac and noncardiac surgery, as well as the quantitative determination of the level of OS through serum biomarkers. Furthermore, the effect of anaesthetics on OS and the use of antioxidant therapies in preventing postoperative complications induced by OS are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM), a highly lethal and aggressive central nervous system malignancy, presents a critical need for targeted therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes in conjunction with standard-of-care (SOC) treatment. Molecular subtyping based on genetic profiles and metabolic characteristics has advanced our understanding of GBM to better predict its evolution, mechanisms, and treatment regimens. Pharmacological ascorbate (P-AscH−) has emerged as a promising supplementary cancer therapy, leveraging its pro-oxidant properties to selectively kill malignant cells when combined with SOC. Given the clinical challenges posed by the heterogeneity and resistance of various GBM subtypes to conventional SOC, our study assessed the response of classical, mesenchymal, and proneural GBM to P-AscH−. P-AscH− (20 pmol/cell) combined with SOC (5 µM temozolomide and 4 Gy of radiation) enhanced clonogenic cell killing in classical and mesenchymal GBM subtypes, with limited effects in the proneural subtype. Similarly, following exposure to P-AscH− (20 pmol/cell), single-strand DNA damage significantly increased in classical and mesenchymal but not proneural GBM. Moreover, proneural GBM exhibited increased hydrogen peroxide removal rates, along with increased catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities compared to mesenchymal and classical GBM, demonstrating an altered H2O2 metabolism that potentially drives differential P-AscH− toxicity. Taken together, these data suggest that P-AscH− may hold promise as an approach to improve SOC responsiveness in mesenchymal GBMs that are known for their resistance to SOC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hypertension is a major risk factor for preeclampsia (PE), associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity. We previously demonstrated that pregnant stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) display a spontaneous PE-like phenotype with distinct placental, fetal, and maternal features. Here, we hypothesized that supplementation with alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a potent antioxidant, during early pregnancy could ameliorate the PE phenotype in this model. To test this hypothesis, timed pregnancies were established using 10 to 12-week-old SHRSP females (n = 19–16/group), which were assigned to two treatment groups: ALA (injected intraperitoneally with 25 mg/kg body weight ALA on gestation day (GD1, GD8, and GD12) or control, receiving saline following the same protocol. Our analysis of maternal signs showed that ALA prevented the pregnancy-dependent maternal blood pressure rise (GD14 blood pressure control 169.3 ± 19.4 mmHg vs. 146.1 ± 13.4 mmHg, p = 0.0001) and ameliorated renal function, as noted by the increased creatinine clearance and improved glomerular histology in treated dams. Treatment also improved the fetal growth restriction (FGR) phenotype, leading to increased fetal weights (ALA 2.19 ± 0.5 g vs. control 1.98 ± 0.3 g, p = 0.0074) and decreased cephalization indexes, indicating a more symmetric fetal growth pattern. This was associated with improved placental efficiency, decreased oxidative stress marker expression on GD14, and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) levels on GD20. In conclusion, ALA supplementation mitigated maternal signs and improved placental function and fetal growth in SHRSP pregnancies, emerging as a promising therapy in pregnancies at high risk for PE.

Gold nanomaterials have attracted increasing attention in biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility and intrinsic optical and physicochemical properties. Oxidative stress, which is mainly contributed by reactive oxygen species (ROS), has been crucial in various cancers and diseases. Here, we report a gold nanodandelion (GND)-based ROS-scavenging system using the antioxidant properties of GNDs. GNDs scavenge superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals in situ and induce oxidative etching with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The size and surface passivation of gold nanomaterials regulated the efficiency of ROS scavenging. The differential effect of GNDs to scavenge intracellular ROS was studied through cell viability, nanoparticle uptake, ROS production, and antioxidant enzymes. Results indicated that GNDs in normal fibroblasts and macrophages display minimal toxicity and provide protection from H2O2-induced oxidative stress. For the first time, GNDs exhibit outstanding nitric oxide (NO•) generation performance in M1 macrophage. Interestingly, the presence of GNDs in glioma cells attenuated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion behaviors. GNDs are expected to be a promising antioxidant in cancer treatment and tumor microenvironment modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Possessing the largest surface area of mucosa in the body, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can easily sufferfrom inflammatory damage under various adverse external exposures, resulting in the occurrence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) usually lead to local mucosal injury, accelerate the formation of niduses, andamplify the inflammatory and immune response. Antioxidant therapy, therefore, is considered as a potential strategy against IBDs. Herein, a series of novel dihydromyricetin‐based nanoassemblies with excellent antioxidant activities and high dispersion in GI tract as oral preparations are developed for the targeted IBD treatment. By changing raw materials, the current strategy can be well extended to the preparation of other insoluble natural flavonoid compound‐based nanoassemblies. The well‐designed dihydromyricetin‐PEG 1000‐based nanoassemblies (DMY‐1000 NAs) with high stability and great ROS scavenging capacity in the harsh environment of GI tract hold an admirable targeted capability toward the intestinal inflamed lesions. Therefore, these biocompatible DMY‐1000 NAs show promising therapeutic effects for typical IBDs including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in murine models. This study not only provides a new method for constructing antioxidant therapy platforms but also illustrates their prominent therapeutic promise against IBDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious central nervous system (CNS) injury disease related to hypoxia-ischemia and inflammation. It is characterized by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, oxidative damage to nerve cells, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria serve as the primary cellular origin of ROS, wherein the electron transfer chain complexes within oxidative phosphorylation frequently encounter electron leakage. These leaked electrons react with molecular oxygen, engendering the production of ROS, which culminates in the occurrence of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is one of the common forms of secondary injury after SCI. Mitochondrial oxidative stress can lead to impaired mitochondrial function and disrupt cellular signal transduction pathways. Hence, restoring mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), reducing ROS production and enhancing mitochondrial function may be potential strategies for the treatment of SCI. This article focuses on the pathophysiological role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in SCI and evaluates in detail the neuroprotective effects of various mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant therapies in SCI, including both drug and non-drug therapy. The objective is to provide valuable insights and serve as a valuable reference for future research in the field of SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin (Cur) has been clinically used for rheumatoid arthritis treatment by the means of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and immune microenvironment regulation. However, this compound has a poor water solubility and moderate antioxidative activity, favoring no further broadened application. Metal complexes of curcumin such as zinc‐curcumin (Zn−Cur) features enhanced water solubilities, while copper‐curcumin (Cu−Cur) shows a higher antioxidant activity but lower solubility than Zn−Cur. Based on their inherent biological properties, this work proposes a nanomedicine‐based ion‐exchange strategy to enhance the efficacy of Cur for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Copper silicate nanoparticles with hollow mesoporous structure were prepared to load water‐soluble Zn−Cur for constructing a composite nanomedicine, which can degrade in acidic microenvironment of arthritic region, releasing Cu2+ and Zn−Cur. Cu2+ then substitute for Zn2+ in Zn−Cur to form Cu−Cur with a significantly enhanced antioxidative effect, capable of efficiently scavenging ROS in M1 macrophages, promoting their transition to an anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype. In addition, the silicate released after nanocarrier degradation and the Zn2+ released after ion exchange reaction synergistically promote the biomineralization of osteoblasts. This work provides a new approach for enhancing the antiarthritic effect of Cur via an ion‐exchange strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ovary holds a significant role as a reproductive endocrine organ in women, and its aging process bears implications such as menopause, decreased fertility, and long-term health risks including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders, and cognitive decline. The phenomenon of oxidative stress is tightly linked to the aging metabolic processes. More and more studies have demonstrated that oxidative stress impacts both physiologic and pathologic ovarian aging, and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the antioxidant response. Furthermore, various therapeutic approaches have been identified to ameliorate ovarian aging by modulating the Nrf2 pathway. This review summarizes the important role of the Nrf2/ Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) signaling pathway in regulating oxidative stress and influencing ovarian aging. Additionally, it highlights the therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury (i–IRI) involves a blood flow interruption in an intestinal segment followed by blood flow restoration. When blood flow is restored, oxidative and inflammatory molecules are distributed throughout the bloodstream, triggering both local and systemic damage. Our goal was to evaluate the potential of three antioxidant and/or anti–inflammatory compounds (curcumin, dexmedetomidine and α-tocopherol) to prevent or reverse local and systemic damage induced by i–IRI.Methods: i-IRI was induced by placing a microvascular clip in the superior mesenteric artery of female WAG/RijHsd rats; the clip was removed after 1h and reperfusion was allowed for 4h. Curcumin (200 mg/kg, orally), α-tocopherol (20 mg/kg, i.p.), and dexmedetomidine (5 or 20 μg/kg, s.c.; DEX5 and DEX20, respectively) were administered. Blood and terminal ileum specimens were collected for biochemical and histological determination. Furthermore, D-xylose absorption test was performed to evaluate intestinal absorption; after completing the 1-hour ischemia and 4-hour reperfusion period, 1 mL of aqueous D-xylose solution (0.615 mg/mL) was administered orally, and one hour later, plasma D-xylose levels were quantified.Results: The histological injury degree (HID) measured by the Chiu scale was significantly reduced when the treatments were applied (non-treated rats, 2.6 ± 0.75; curcumin, 1.54 ± 0.8; DEX5, 1.47 ± 0.7; DEX20 1.14 ± 0.5; and α-tocopherol, 1.01 ± 0.6); intestinal absorptive capacity also improved in all cases healthy rats (2.06 ± 0.07 μg/mL; non-treated, 1.18 ± 0.07 μg/mL; curcumin 1.76 ± 0.3 μg/mL; DEX5, 2.29 ± 0.2 μg/mL; DEX20, 2.25 ± 0.26 μg/mL; and α-tocopherol 1.66 ± 0.21 μg/mL). However, it failed to reduce liver enzyme levels. Finally, only dexmedetomidine significantly reduced urea and creatinine levels compared to non-treated animals.Conclusion: All drugs were effective in reducing HID, although α-tocopherol was effective to a greater extent. Only dexmedetomidine reverted intestinal absorption to normal values of healthy animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there are no clinical drugs available to treat acute kidney injury (AKI). Given the high prevalence and high mortality rate of AKI, the development of drugs to effectively treat AKI is a huge unmet medical need and a research hotspot. Although existing evidence fully demonstrates that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) burst at the AKI site is a major contributor to AKI progression, the heterogeneity, complexity, and unique physiological structure of the kidney make most antioxidant and anti-inflammatory small molecule drugs ineffective because of the lack of kidney targeting and side effects. Recently, nanodrugs with intrinsic kidney targeting through the control of size, shape, and surface properties have opened exciting prospects for the treatment of AKI. Many antioxidant nanodrugs have emerged to address the limitations of current AKI treatments. In this review, we systematically summarized for the first time about the emerging nanodrugs that exploit the pathological and physiological features of the kidney to overcome the limitations of traditional small-molecule drugs to achieve high AKI efficacy. First, we analyzed the pathological structural characteristics of AKI and the main pathological mechanism of AKI: hypoxia, harmful substance accumulation-induced RONS burst at the renal site despite the multifactorial initiation and heterogeneity of AKI. Subsequently, we introduced the strategies used to improve renal targeting and reviewed advances of nanodrugs for AKI: nano-RONS-sacrificial agents, antioxidant nanozymes, and nanocarriers for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory drugs. These nanodrugs have demonstrated excellent therapeutic effects, such as greatly reducing oxidative stress damage, restoring renal function, and low side effects. Finally, we discussed the challenges and future directions for translating nanodrugs into clinical AKI treatment.

The article reviews current opinion on lifestyle, environmental and general health factors that trigger pathogenetic mechanisms of oxidative stress, leading to spermatozoa damage and a decrease of men reproductive function. The possibility of personalized male infertility restoring by using drugs that neutralize the damaging effect of reactive oxygen species, including the complex of vitamins and microelements Selzinc Plus, containing zinc, selenium, vitamins C, E and beta-carotine is discussed.

Background. The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of life (QoL) in patients with pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD), to reveal the factors affecting the QoL in this category of patients and to investigate the effect of antioxidant therapy on the QoL of patients with CKD stages 1–5. Mate­rials and methods. Patients with CKD (n = 61), whose average age was 44.51 ± 11.90 years, were included in the study. Twenty (32.79 %) men and 41 (67.21 %) women were divided into two groups representative in terms of age and gender composition: group 1 (n = 31) — patients with CKD who took glutathione 100 mg 2 times a day with meals for 3 months, group 2 (n = 30) — those with CKD who took ubiquinone 100 mg once daily with meals for 3 months. The QoL was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. Patient adherence to treatment was assessed with the Morisky-Green test. To assess the kidney function of patients, the level of urinary uromodulin excretion (uUMOD), urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) were determined. The impact of antioxidant therapy on the QoL of these patients was evaluated and the factors affecting QoL were determined. Results. In the structure of CKD, urolithiasis was most common — 22 (36.1 %) patients, 5 (8.2 %) people had chronic pyelonephritis, 18 (29.5 %) — diabetic nephropathy, 4 (6.6 %) — polycystic kidney disease, 6 (9.8 %) — gouty nephropathy, 1 (1.6 %) — chronic glomerulonephritis and 5 (8.2 %) patients presented with hypertensive nephropathy. The duration of CKD in the first group was 5.42 ± 3.88 (1; 15) years, in the second one — 5.57 ± 3.79 (1; 16) years, no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of age and gender (U = 463m, p = 0.9827). In all patients, the indicators at the beginning were lower than those by the end of the study. The lowest indicator in the first group is general health, in the second — vitality. The psychological component of health (PsCH) was lower than the physical component of health (PhCH) in both groups. A significant positive relationship (p

Objective: studying of the effect of combined antioxidant and photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the emotional state of patients with vulvar kraurosis. Materials and methods: the study involved 90 women with vulvar kraurosis who were randomized into three groups of 30 participants. In the first group, treatment included photodynamic therapy (PDT) followed by administration of the antioxidant Ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate for one month. Participants in the second group received only PDT. Patients of the third group underwent a course of laser therapy on the perineal region. The emotional state of the participants was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) before and at the end of treatment, 1, 6 and 12 months after the end of therapy. Results: before treatment, participants from the three groups scored a similar number of HADS scores. In the course of observations, the best result on the scales of anxiety and depression was recorded in patients who received combined antioxidant and photodynamic therapy. After a month of taking Ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate, the HADS score in these women was significantly lower than in the comparison groups. Further, these patients continued to show better scores on the depression scale. The total scores on the anxiety scale in this group were comparable to those in patients who received only PDT. Conclusion: combined antioxidant and photodynamic therapy, including Ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate, has a more pronounced positive effect on the emotional background of patients with vulvar kraurosis in comparison with PDT and laser therapy.

Amit G Reddy, Michelle C Dai, Jeffrey J Song, Hudson M Pierce, Sagar R Patel, Larry I Lipshultz Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USACorrespondence: Larry I Lipshultz, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Street, Suite 10B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA, Tel +1 713 798-6270, Fax +1 713 798-6007, Email larryl@bcm.eduAbstract: The clinical landscape of Peyronie’s disease is everchanging. There has been growing interest in non-invasive therapeutic options that could assist patients with achieving a meaningful reduction in penile curvature without surgical intervention. These therapies are wide-ranging in terms of their mechanisms of action, efficacies, and short- and long-term safety profiles. Recently, an abundance of outcomes literature on longstanding and novel non-surgical treatment modalities has been published. For sexual medicine providers hoping to offer patients the most up-to-date and evidence-based treatments for the management of Peyronie’s disease, it can be challenging to gain a thorough understanding of this body of literature. In this clinical management review, the workup and current theories on the pathophysiology of Peyronie’s disease are reviewed, and the most recent outcomes data on the currently available non-surgical treatment modalities are presented. With an accurate understanding of the current landscape of Peyronie’s disease treatment, sexual health providers will be able to better evaluate and engage in evidence-based shared decision-making with their patients.Keywords: Peyronie’s disease, shockwave therapy, platelet rich plasma, Xiaflex, penile curvature, antioxidant therapy

Objective: To determine the efficacy of antioxidant therapy in the outcome of critical COVID-19-infected patients. Methods: At the Patel Hospital, a retrospective cohort analysis was carried out between June 2020 and October 2021. The study included a record of 200 individuals with severe or critical stage COVID-19 who were older than 18 and of either gender. Based on the antioxidant therapy, study participants were placed evenly into two groups. Antioxidant therapy was provided to one group (the exposed group), whereas the other group received simply normal COVID-19 medication (the unexposed group). Outcomes from both groups were evaluated and compared. Results: Patients on antioxidant therapy had lesser mortality and shorter hospital stay than patients on coventional management, but the difference in proportions of mortality and length of hospital stay was statistically insignificant between groups (p > 0.05). Patients on antioxidant therapy had a significantly higher proportion of moderate to severe ARDS and septic shock than unexposed patients. A significantly higher number of patients in the unexposed group had AKI as compared to the exposed group (p = 0.048). Conclusions: Antioxidant therapy seems to have a non-significant positive effect on mortality, hospital stay, and AKI, while it showed a negative effect on the severity of ARDS and septic shock.

Objective(s): Spiders of the Loxosceles genus, known as violin spiders, produce venom with dermonecrotic and systemic effects, as it is a species widely distributed in the world, its study represents a high medical relevance. Systemic loxoscelism, which occurs in 1 in 5 cases and is the most frequent in children, can be fatal, so the study of effective therapy is of great relevance. In the present study, we compared different therapeutic options to mitigate the systemic effects of Loxosceles boneti venom in a model in which prepubertal rats were used.Materials and Methods: A model of systemic intoxication by L. boneti venom was provoked in male Wistar rats. Study groups were formed: healthy control, with venom and untreated control, treatment with N-acetylcysteine, and/or hyperbaric oxygenation therapy. Subsequently, pathological analysis of the kidney and lung was performed. The oxidant-antioxidant response was evaluated, and molecular analysis of the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes was performed.Results: Regenerative changes were observed at the cellular level in both treatments, being more noticeable in the HBO group. The anti-oxidant response was outstanding in the same group. Conclusion: Both treatments offer considerable benefits, however; further studies are needed to provide adequate therapeutics.

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) performs a range of necessary functions within the neural layers of the retina and helps ensure vision. The regulation of pro-oxidative and antioxidant processes is the basis for maintaining RPE homeostasis and preventing retinal degenerative processes. Long-term stable changes in the redox balance under the influence of endogenous or exogenous factors can lead to oxidative stress (OS) and the development of a number of retinal pathologies associated with RPE dysfunction, and can eventually lead to vision loss. Reparative autophagy, ubiquitin–proteasome utilization, the repair of damaged proteins, and the maintenance of their conformational structure are important interrelated mechanisms of the endogenous defense system that protects against oxidative damage. Antioxidant protection of RPE cells is realized as a result of the activity of specific transcription factors, a large group of enzymes, chaperone proteins, etc., which form many signaling pathways in the RPE and the retina. Here, we discuss the role of the key components of the antioxidant defense system (ADS) in the cellular response of the RPE against OS. Understanding the role and interactions of OS mediators and the components of the ADS contributes to the formation of ideas about the subtle mechanisms in the regulation of RPE cellular functions and prospects for experimental approaches to restore RPE functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is almost always associated with comorbidities such as diabetes, hyperuricemia/ gout, urolithiasis, often with urinary tract infection, hypertension, polycystic kidney disease, and other conditions. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is an inherited kidney disease (1/1000–1/400 worldwide) affecting mainly adults, caused predominantly by mutations in PKD1 (85–90 % of cases) and PKD2 genes (10–15 % of cases), which encode polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 proteins, respectively. In adults with preserved kidney function, the prevalence of gout increases from 1 to 2 % (hyperuricemia up to 11 %), in patients with CKD stage 4 — up to 32 % (hyperuricemia up to 80 %). 70 % of patients with gout and 50 % of patients with hyperuricemia have stage 2 CKD. CKD contributes to a decrease in the urinary excretion of uric acid. In patients with CKD, hyperuricemia is considered to be a serum uric acid level > 6 mg/dL in women and > 7 mg/dL in men. Hyperuricemia is very often observed in hypertension and type 2 diabetes. In patients with kidney disease, diabetes is a major factor of mortality and morbidity. Diabetic nephropathy can be suspected in a patient with type 2 diabetes in the presence of albuminuria and/ or diabetic retinopathy. Signs of diabetic nephropathy: basement membrane thickening, mesangial expansion, and increased vascular permeability to albumin induced by nonenzymatic glycation of collagen and laminin. Comorbidity has a negative impact on patients’ health due to increased morbidity and mortality. Such patients are at risk of rapid progression of CKD into the end stage, which requires renal replacement therapy. Therefore, early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CKD complications are important for such patients. This article highlights the impact of antioxidant therapy and phytoneering on the course of CKD in patients with comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]