SOD

Green tea, a plant rich in bioactive compounds, has been highlighted for its beneficial effects. In the present systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs), the impact of green tea on inflammatory and oxidative markers is investigated. Using pre-defined keywords, online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar) were searched for relevant articles, published from inception up to February 2024. The outcomes included C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Analyses of subgroups, linear, and non-linear associations were also carried out. Out of 1264 records initially retrieved, 38 RCTs were included. Supplementation with green tea improved the following indicators: IL-1β (weighted mean difference (WMD): -0.10 pg/mL; 95% CI: -0.15, -0.06), MDA (WMD: -0.40 mcmol/L; 95 % CI: -0.63, -0.18), TAC (WMD: 0.09 mmol/L; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.13), SOD (WMD: 17.21 u/L; 95% CI: 3.24, 31.19), and GPX (WMD: 3.90 u/L; 95% CI: 1.85, 5.95); but failed to improve others, including CRP (WMD: 0.01 mg/L; 95% CI: -0.14, 0.15), IL-6 (WMD: -0.34 pg/mL; 95% CI:-0.94, 0.26), and TNF-α (WMD: -0.07 pg/mL; 95% CI: -0.42, 0.28). Supplementation with green tea can improve the body's oxidative status. However, the results showed no significant effect of green tea on inflammatory markers, except for IL-1β. Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of green tea, particularly on inflammatory status. © The Author(s) 2025.

Stress and anxiety are interconnected, sharing both behavioural and neural foundations. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) helps reduce stress and anxiety. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a proprietary herbal extract of ashwagandha root (APB) in adult men and women with moderate stress and anxiety. This 8-week, randomized, double-blind, three-arm, placebo-controlled trial included 141 healthy men and women aged 18-65 years with stress and anxiety. Participants were randomized to receive either 300 mg of APB twice daily (n = 47), ashwagandha root extract (ARE, n = 47), or placebo (PL, n = 47) for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint was a change in serum cortisol levels at week 8. Secondary endpoints were the mean changes in Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Profile of Mood States (POMS), and Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ) scores. Safety was assessed through clinical adverse events (AEs) and laboratory parameters. Between-group comparisons were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc test, and within-group changes were assessed using paired t-tests. At 8 weeks, all groups have shown a significant reduction in serum cortisol, and improvements in PSS (P < 0.0001), HAM-A (P = 0.001), and POMS domain scores (tension, depression, and anger, P < 0.0001). In addition, the APB showed significant differences compared with ARE and PL for PSS, HAM-A total score, OHQ, and POMS (P < 0.05). The proprietary herbal extract of ashwagandha root (300mg twice daily) is considered an effective and safe intervention for reducing stress and anxiety. © 2026 The Author(s).

Ofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and ibuprofen are three commonly used drugs which can be detected in aquatic environments. To assess their ecotoxicity, the effects of these three pharmaceuticals and their mixture on AChE (acetylcholinesterase) activity in the brain, and EROD (7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase) and SOD (superoxide dismutase) activities in the liver of the freshwater crucian carp Carassius auratus were tested after exposure for 1, 2, 4 and 7 days. The results showed that treatments with 0.002⁻0.01 mg/L ofloxacin and 0.0008⁻0.004 mg/L sulfamethoxazole did not significantly change AChE, EROD and SOD activities. AChE activity was significantly inhibited in response to treatment with 0.05mg/L ofloxacin and 0.02mg/L sulfamethoxazole. All three biomarkers were induced significantly in treatments with ibuprofen and the mixture of the three pharmaceuticals at all the tested concentrations. The combined effects of ofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and ibuprofen were compared with their isolated effects on the three biomarkers, and the results indicated that exposure to ibuprofen and the mixture at environmentally relevant concentrations could trigger adverse impacts on Carassius auratus. The hazard quotient (HQ) index also demonstrated a high risk for ibuprofen. Moreover, the present study showed that the effects of ofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and ibuprofen might be additive on the physiological indices of Carassius auratus.

Salt, promoting oxidative stress, contributes to insulin resistance, whereas K, inhibiting oxidative stress, improves insulin sensitivity. Oxidative stress activation of NLRP3 inflammasome is a central player in the induction of insulin resistance. Therefore, we hypothesised that NLRP3 inflammasome may mediate the effects of salt and K on insulin resistance. In all, fifty normotensive subjects were recruited from a rural community of Northern China. The protocol included a low-salt diet for 7 d, then a high-salt diet for 7 d and a high-salt diet with K supplementation for another 7 d. In addition, THP-1 cells were cultured in different levels of Na with and without K. The results showed that salt loading elevated fasting blood glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels, as well as insulin resistance, whereas K supplementation reversed them. Meanwhile, additional K reversed the active effects of high salt on NLRP3 inflammasome in both the subjects and THP-1 cells, and the change of insulin resistance index notably related with the alteration of plasma IL-1β, the index of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, during intervention in the subjects. Additional K ameliorated oxidative stress induced by high salt in both the subjects and cultured THP-1 cells, and the change of oxidative stress related with the alteration of plasma IL-1β during intervention in the subjects. In vitro, antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine significantly prevented the active effects of high Na or oxidant Rosup on NLRP3 inflammasome, so did K. Our study indicates that oxidative stress modulation of NLRP3 inflammasome may be involved in the impacts of Na and K on insulin resistance.

β-glucan (BG) and mulberry have received increasing attention for their benefits as natural sources of metabolic health. In the current study, we investigated the synergetic beneficial effects of BG and mulberry leaf extract (MLE) in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Male C57BL6 mice were fed a HFD for twelve weeks to induce significant obesity and insulin resistance. BG and MLE were administrated orally throughout the feeding period. The administration of BG resulted in a significant reduction in body weight gain, perirenal fat mass, fasting insulin, serum lipids, serum inflammation markers, and fatty liver, showing systemic health improvement. Likewise, the administration of MLE showed benefits similar to BG, with the exception of body weight gain. In addition to the systemic benefits, the combination of BG and MLE resulted in a synergetic improvement in insulin sensitivity. Meanwhile, only the combination of BG and MLE significantly enhanced liver GST (Glutathione S-Transferase) activity and CuZn-SOD (Superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn)) activity, resulting in a significant reduction in GSH/GSSG (Glutathione disulfide) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the liver. These results further confirm the beneficial effects of BG and MLE on metabolic disorders and show that the combination of BG and MLE has synergetic effects.

The aim of this study is to examine whether polysaccharide krestin, a protein-bound polysaccharide, can prevent the progression of atherosclerosis and lipoperoxidative injury caused by oxidatively modified low density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) to macrophages. The alterations of GSHPx (glutathione peroxidase), SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity and NO (nitric oxide) release in PSK-treated mouse peritoneal macrophages, and the effect of LPS on them were investigated. With peritoneal injection of PSK, the following were observed in the mouse peritoneal macrophages: 1) an increase in SeGSHPx activity, 2) elevation in non-SeGSHPx and SOD activity; 3) the enzyme activities were further improved by addition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS); and 4) much NO was found to be released by PSK-treated mouse peritoneal macrophages stimulated by LPS.

Background/Objectives: Nitric oxide (NO) is a key mediator of vascular, metabolic, and redox pathways, influencing exercise performance. Beetroot, a natural source of inorganic nitrate, increases NO bioavailability and may modulate oxidative stress and inflammation, though data in endurance athletes remain limited. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a novel beetroot-based nitrate supplement (B-bNs) on NO metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation in non-professional triathletes. Methods: This was a randomized 2 × 2 cross-over pilot study with two 7-day periods (B-bNs vs. No treatment), separated by a 15-day washout (4 visits: Day 1, 7, 22 and 28). Samples were collected at baseline (T0), 2 h post-first dose (T1), and after 7 days (T2) for the supplementation period (B-bNs) and at T0 and T2 for the "no treatment" period. The following biomarkers from plasma and urine were evaluated: NO pathway (NO metabolites (NOx), nitrite (NO2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), peroxynitrite, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT)), oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, 8-isoprostane, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity), and cytokines (IL-6, IL-10). A total of 10 male triathletes (mean age 48.1 ± 9.8 years and BMI 23.9 ± 2.2 kg/m2) participated in this study. Results: No adverse events were reported. After 7 days of supplementation (T2 vs. T0), significant increases in NOx in plasma and urine (about +155%), iNOS (+56%), peroxynitrite (+60%), 3-NT (+8.6%), ROS (+413%) and IL-6 (+73%) were recorded. These values resulted significantly higher compared to "no treatment" (all p = 0.002), with no significant differences for 3-NT, SOD, 8-isoprostane, IL-6, and IL-10. Conclusions: Beetroot-based nitrate supplementation may enhance the NO-related pathway in non-professional endurance athletes with nitric-peroxydation activation, occurring without evidence of lipid oxidative damage. Larger placebo-controlled trials with standardized diet/training and performance outcomes are needed to determine the functional significance of these preliminary findings. This study was registered in the ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN10885376).

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Cardiovascular diseases are strongly associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. Lifestyle modifications and hazelnut consumption have shown potential benefits in managing hypercholesterolemia. The aim was to compare the effects of a diet supplemented with Gevuina avellana with those of a low-fat diet on plasma oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in adults with hypercholesterolemia. METHODS AND RESULTS: A six-month randomized controlled trial was conducted in adults with hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol >200 mg/dL). Participants were allocated by block randomization, stratified by sex, to either an experimental group following a Chilean diet supplemented with G. avellana (30 g/day) or a control group adhering to a low-fat diet (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT07087704). Blood samples were collected at baseline and after the intervention to assess lipid profiles, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized LDL (ox-LDL), homocysteine, nitrotyrosine (%NTYR), folic acid, C-reactive protein (CRP), adiponectin and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The primary outcome was the change in oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Biochemical analyses and statistical evaluations were performed in a blinded manner, and data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. A total of 106 participants were recruited and randomized, of whom 81 completed the intervention (experimental, n = 47; control, n = 34). Both groups exhibited a significant increase in HDL-C (+11%) and folic acid (+64%), along with a 35% reduction in LDH. CRP decreased significantly in both groups (p = 0.037), declining from 9.32 ± 2.45 to 5.20 ± 1.63 mg/dL in the control group and from 5.01 ± 1.13 to 2.82 ± 0.69 mg/dL in the experimental group. CAT activity significantly increased in both groups after the intervention period (p = 0.015), rising from 9.01 ± 1.34 to 16.26 ± 2.72 nKat/L in the control group and from 9.26 ± 1.10 to 18.10 ± 2.20 nKat/L in the experimental group, whereas no changes were observed in SOD activity. Homocysteine levels decreased by 35% in the control grou

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial investigated the effects of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 on alcohol-related physiological disturbances in adults with chronic alcohol consumers. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to receive either BC99 or placebo for 60 days. Compared with placebo, BC99 supplementation significantly increased the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)1 and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)2, indicating enhanced ethanol metabolism. BC99 improved serum lipid profiles, reflected by a significant reduction in triglycerides (TG)3. BC99 markedly alleviated oxidative stress, as shown by increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD)4 and glutathione (GSH)5 and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA)6 and P450 2E1 (CYP2E1)7 levels. Serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS)8 concentrations were significantly reduced, suggesting improved intestinal barrier integrity. Fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)9, particularly butyrate, increased substantially following BC99 intervention. Untargeted serum metabolomics identified 590 differentially regulated metabolites after BC99 supplementation. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed significant modulation of metabolic pathways, including butyrate metabolism, purine metabolism, and histidine metabolism. Metabolites involved in butyrate metabolism were negatively correlated with LPS and oxidative stress biomarkers, indicating a potential mechanistic link between enhanced SCFA metabolism and improved systemic oxidative and inflammatory status. Collectively, BC99 supplementation improved alcohol metabolism, reduced oxidative stress, and supported intestinal barrier function in chronic alcohol consumers. These findings suggest that modulation of butyrate-related metabolic pathways may contribute to the protective effects of BC99, supporting its potential as a therapeutic probiotic for alcohol-related health disturbances.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a globally wide spread chronic disease with remittent attacks. It causes many stressful symptoms which decrease the quality of life of the patients remarkably. IBD requires long term treatment due to its chronic nature. Probiotics are promising treatment approach for IBD due to its improve of the composition of the gut microbiota which have a great role in the development of colitis, in addition to its safety on the long term use in comparison to traditional treatment options. A novel promising Lactiplantibacillus strain, with superior probiotic potential, is tested for the management of colitis. Colitis was induced in different mice groups using dextran sodium sulphate. One group is treated by a commercial probiotic preparation, another group was treated with sulfasalazine and the last group was treated by the novel Lactiplantibacillus strain. Inflammation was assessed by measuring pro-inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL1-β and TNF-α. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring, Catalase and SOD activities in addition to malondialdehyde level. The effect of Lactiplantibacillus strain on the intestinal barrier function was examined by measuring the expression levels of tight junction proteins of claudin1, occludin and zonula occludens1 in mice colon and CaCo2 cell line. The novel Lactiplantibacillus strain significantly decreased the inflammatory markers level and oxidative stress. It also strengthens the intestinal barrier by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins in colon tissue and CaCo2 cell line. The effect of the novel Lactiplantibacillus strain was comparable to sulfasalazine and over performed commercial probiotic preparation. © 2026. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.

Excess adiposity is associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation, which contribute to metabolic dysregulation. Both exercise training and bioactive plant-derived compounds have been explored as therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) root extract, rich in ecdysteroids such as 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E), exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This randomized controlled trial investigated the combined effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and asparagus root extract (ARE) supplementation on metabolic parameters, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, and white blood cell counts in overweight and obese adults. Seventy-two participants aged 18-30 years with a body mass index ≥ 23 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to one of four groups: control (CON), ARE supplementation only (ARE), HIIT only (HIIT), and combined intervention (COM). The HIIT protocol comprised a modified Tabata regimen of progressive bodyweight intervals at 80-90% and 40-50% of maximal perceived exertion, performed three times per week for 12 weeks. Participants in the ARE and COM groups received a daily oral dose of ARE providing 1.71 ± 0.24 mg/kg/day of 20E. Compared with the CON group, the HIIT group showed significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC), the TC/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) ratio, and blood glucose levels, alongside significant increases in HDLC and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (all p < 0.05). The COM group demonstrated significant decreases in protein carbonyls and interleukin-6 levels and in the TC/HDLC ratio (all p < 0.05) as well as a significant increase in SOD activity (p = 0.002). The ARE group, meanwhile, exhibited significant increases in both SOD activity (p < 0.001) and malondialdehyde levels (p = 0.017). These findings suggest that combining HIIT with ARE supplementation produces synergistic improvements in oxidative and inflammatory status, whereas HIIT alone primarily enhances metabolic regulation in overweight and obese individuals.

Oxidative stress is a key driver of mucosal damage in ulcerative colitis (UC). Antioxidant supplementation may restore redox balance, but its clinical efficacy remains controversial. To evaluate the effects of natural antioxidant substances supplementation on oxidation/antioxidant biomarkers and clinical outcomes in UC patients. The databases included PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (up to July 2025) were searched, and RCTs comparing oral antioxidants with placebo in UC were included. The primary outcomes were changes in oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, TAC, GPX). The secondary outcomes included the short IBD questionnaire (SIBDQ) score and the simple clinical colitis activity index (SCCAI) score. 9 articles involving 624 patients were included in this study. Compared to placebo group, antioxidant substances supplementation could significantly reduce the level of MDA (P = 0.001, SMD=-1.09, 95% CI -1.75 to -0.43), increased the levels of SOD, TAC, GPX in patients with UC (P = 0.02, SMD = 0.57, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.04; P = 0.0004, SMD = 0.74, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.16; P = 0.004, SMD = 0.69, 95% CI 0.22 to 1.16). In addition, antioxidant substances supplementation remarkably decreased the SCCAI score of UC patients (P = 0.04, SMD=-0.62, 95% CI -1.21 to -0.04), thus improving the disease activity. However, there is no significant difference in the change of IBDQ score (P = 0.13, SMD = 0.55, 95% CI -0.17 to 1.28). Natural antioxidant substances supplementation effectively enhanced antioxidant capacity and ameliorated oxidation status, improved the disease activity of UC patients, but had no significant impact on their quality of life. This study will provide a basis for the selection of adjuvant therapy drugs for UC. © 2025. The Author(s).

OBJECTIVE: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by chronic neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Vitamin D is believed to exert immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects, yet its impact on specific inflammatory proteins such as CHI3L1 (YKL-40) in MS remains unclear. This study evaluated whether 8-week vitamin D3 supplementation affects serum CHI3L1 levels, oxidative stress markers, and antioxidant enzyme activities in patients with MS. METHODS: In this single-arm pre-post clinical trial, 35 patients with MS (aged 30-56 years) received oral vitamin D3 supplementation (50 000 IU/week) for 8 weeks. Serum 25(OH)D and CHI3L1 levels were determined using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. oxidative stress markers were measured pre- and post-intervention using commercial colorimetric kits. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS: Vitamin D3 supplementation significantly increased serum 25(OH)D levels (20.80 ± 8.6 to 39.11 ± 12.26 ng/mL; p < 0.001). CHI3L1 concentration decreased by 21.7% (33.28 ± 8.9 to 26.05 ± 9.1 ng/mL; p < 0.001). oxidative stress was reduced, evidenced by lower TOS (1.55 ± 0.50 to 0.59 ± 0.23 mmol H2O2 equiv./L; p < 0.001) and MDA (0.08 ± 0.03 to 0.05 ± 0.026 nmol/mL; p < 0.001). Antioxidant capacity improved, as demonstrated by elevated TAC (0.622 ± 0.138 to 0.797 ± 0.15 mmol Fe2+/L; p < 0.001) and increased activities of SOD (10.5%; p < 0.001), CAT (19.5%; p < 0.001), and GPx (35.6%; p < 0.05). Significant inverse correlations were observed between serum 25(OH)D and CHI3L1 (r = -0.999, p < 0.001), TOS (r = -0.456, p = 0.0058), and MDA (r = -0.577, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Vitamin D3 supplementation was associated with reductions in CHI3L1 and oxidative stress markers, while suggesting enhancement of antioxidant capacity. This observed biomarker changes support vitamin D3 as a potential adjunct therapy targeting interconnected pathological pathways in MS. © 2025 The Author(s). Neuropsychopharmacology Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of the Japanese Society of Neuropsychopharmacology.

BACKGROUND: Probiotics have demonstrated potential application value in alleviating allergic diseases, but their mechanisms of action remain to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of probiotics in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) and explore the underlying mechanisms. METHODS: We evaluated the clinical intervention efficacy of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 (BC99) in adults with AR through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Seventy-eight AR patients were randomly assigned to either the BC99 gummies group (n = 40) or the placebo group (n = 38) for an 8-week intervention. Rhinitis symptom survey questionnaires, including the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), the Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ), and the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT), were administered and evaluated. Additionally, oxidative stress indicators, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as immune factors (IgA, complement C3) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum metabolomic profiles were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). RESULTS: The results indicated that BC99 significantly alleviated nasal symptoms and improved quality of life, as evidenced by reduced TNSS and RQLQ scores (p < 0.05) and increased RCAT scores (p < 0.01). Furthermore, BC99 supplementation significantly decreased serum IgA, complement C3, EOS, and MDA levels (p < 0.05) while enhancing antioxidant capacity (increased GSH, stabilized SOD). Metabolomic analysis revealed that BC99 intervention induced 397 differential metabolite changes (136 upregulated, 261 downregulated) and significantly modulated AR-related metabolic pathways, including biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, phenylalanine metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study confirms the efficacy of W. coagulans BC99 in ameliorating AR, potentially through immune modulation, oxidative stress reduction, and metabolic pathway regulation. These findings support BC99 as a promising adjunct therapy for AR, though further research is warranted to elucidate its molecular mechanis

Oil Palm Phenolics (OPP), derived from by-products of oil palm fruit processing, contain bioactive polyphenols with nutraceutical benefits. While the optimal dose has been suggested for both liquid and spray-dried preparations, their efficacy in humans requires further investigation. This study assesses the effects of encapsulated OPP powder on cardiovascular and antioxidant (AOX) parameters in healthy individuals. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 97 healthy volunteers randomized into four groups: placebo, 250 mg, 1000 mg, and 1500 mg/d spray-dried encapsulated OPP for 60 days. Primary outcomes included changes in lipid profiles, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and AOX markers including glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and total AOX capacity (T-AOC). 250 mg/d OPP significantly reduced SBP and DBP at day 60 compared to baseline (SBP: p = 0.017; DBP: p < 0.001). T-AOC improved significantly with the 1500 mg/d at day 30 (p = 0.038). Higher doses OPP (1000 and 1500 mg/d) preserved GSH-Px levels, while placebo and 250 mg/d OPP showed declines. Encapsulated OPP improved AOX status without affecting lipid profiles while improves BP at low doses. These findings support its development as a dietary supplement, warranting further investigation into optimized dosages and long-term effects. © 2025. The Author(s).

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Chronic heart failure (HF) is often linked to increased oxidative stress and metabolic issues like high uric acid, which can worsen outcomes. Astaxanthin (ASX), a strong antioxidant, may help reduce these harmful effects. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ASX supplementation on oxidative stress markers as the primary outcome and clinical symptoms in patients with HF. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 80 patients with HF were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either ASX (20 mg/day) or a placebo (20 mg/day of maltodextrin) for 8 weeks. Biomarkers including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), serum UA, and clinical symptoms (dyspnea, fatigue, appetite) were assessed pre-and post-intervention. RESULTS: After eight weeks, compared to the placebo group, participants receiving ASX supplementation showed a significant increase in TAC (0.12 vs. -0.04 mmol/L, P = 0.002) and SOD levels (156.92 vs. 36.14 U/mL, P < 0.001). In contrast, the ASX group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in MDA (-2.19 vs. -0.68 nmol/L, P < 0.001) and serum UA levels (-1.82 vs. -0.63 mg/dl, P = 0.003) compared to placebo. Furthermore, among ASX treated patients, improvements in dyspnea and fatigue were statistically significant (P < 0.001), while the increase in appetite was only marginally significant (P = 0.071). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that ASX supplementation may be effective in improving oxidative stress biomarkers and clinical status in patients with HF. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20200429047235N3. Registered on 26 March 2024, prior to the enrollment of the first participant. http://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/75913 . © 2025. The Author(s).

BACKGROUND: Migraine is a highly prevalent neurological disorder related to severe, unilateral headache and symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and photophobia. Growing evidence implicates oxidative stress and inflammation as key contributors to migraine pathophysiology, exacerbating symptoms and related mental health conditions. Mixodin is a novel bioactive formulation derived from natural compounds, including curcumin, piperine, and gingerol, which are well-established for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. While each component has shown potential in alleviating migraine-related symptoms, the combined therapeutic efficacy remains unclear. This study investigates whether the combined natural compounds in mixodin provide synergistic benefits in migraine management by targeting multiple underlying mechanisms. This study aims to examine the effects of mixodin supplementation on clinical symptoms, mental health, quality of life (QOL), inflammatory, and oxidative stress factors in patients with migraine. METHODS: This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 60 patients diagnosed with migraine by a neurologist according to the ICHD-3 criteria. Eligible participants, aged 20 to 60 years, will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group (n = 30) will receive two mixodin capsules daily for 8 weeks, each containing 300 mg of curcumin, 7.5 mg of gingerol, and 3.75 mg of piperine. The control group (n = 30) will receive two placebo capsules daily for the same duration. The primary outcome will be the clinical symptoms of migraine, including the frequency, severity, and duration of migraine attacks reported by patients. Secondary outcomes will include serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), and assessments of mental health status and QOL. DISCUSSION: This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of mixodin supplementation on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, migraine-related symptoms, mental healt

BACKGROUND: Disturbance of inflammatory/oxidative status of the body is an important player in chronic disease pathophysiology. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) supplementation has been vastly investigated in this regard. The present dose-response meta-analysis is aimed at summing up the findings of existing literature. METHODS: Online databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar were searched for eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on ginger supplementation. Outcome variables included: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Findings were reported as weighted mean differences (WMDs). Subgroup analysis was conducted. Linear and non-linear associations between dosage/duration of intervention and the observed effects were assessed. Protocol registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251011148(. RESULTS: Twenty-nine RCTs were included. Our findings show that ginger supplementation improves all inflammation/anti-oxidant biomarkers, as follows: CRP (WMD = -0.86 mg/L; 95% CI = - 1.10, - 0.62), TNF-α (WMD = - 1.90 pg/mL; 95% CI = - 2.61, - 1.18), IL-6 (WMD = - 1.15 pg/mL; 95% CI = - 1.90, - 0.41), TAC (WMD = 0.22 mmol/L; 95% CI = 0.06, 0.38), MDA (WMD = - 0.76 mcmol/L; 95% CI = - 1.19, - 0.33), and SOD (WMD = 48.12 u/L; 95% CI = 30.57, 65.58). CONCLUSION: The effect of ginger on IL-6 seems to associate with the dosage and duration of intervention in a non-linear fashion. Ginger supplementation may improve inflammatory and antioxidant biomarkers, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions. Given the high heterogeneity among studies, findings should be interpreted cautiously. © 2025. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

Liver steatosis, the hallmark component of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is particularly common among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Shared mechanisms such as insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation contribute to the coexistence of these conditions and accelerate disease progression, emphasizing the need for effective therapeutic strategies. In this 12-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 227 obese individuals with T2DM were assigned to receive either 1500 mg of curcumin daily or placebo. Curcumin significantly reduced liver fat content, liver stiffness, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) compared with placebo (all p < 0.001). Improvements were also noted in inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (all p < 0.001), reflecting curcumin's anti-inflammatory effects. Antioxidant benefits were evident, as total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased, while malondialdehyde levels decreased (all p < 0.001). Systematic safety assessments, including liver and kidney function tests, revealed no clinically significant abnormalities. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort was the most common non-serious adverse event. Overall, these findings support curcumin as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for improving liver steatosis in obese patients with T2DM.

Oxidative stress, an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidants, contributes to chronic diseases. Almonds, rich in vitamin E, polyphenols, and monounsaturated fats, exhibit antioxidant potential, though their overall effects on oxidative biomarkers are unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate almond supplementation's impact on these biomarkers in adults. Following PRISMA guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to January 2025. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and crossover trials assessing biomarkers of antioxidant and oxidation status (e.g., malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG], uric acid [UA]) were included. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Tool, and random-effects models calculated weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Eight studies (5 RCTs, 3 crossover trials; n = 424) were included. Almond doses of > 60 g/day significantly reduced MDA (WMD = -0.46, p = 0.002), 8-OHdG (WMD = -5.83, p < 0.001), and UA (WMD = -0.64, p = 0.009), while increasing SOD (WMD = 2.02, p = 0.008). No effect was found for GPx (p = 0.270). High heterogeneity (I² = 92-96%) indicated variability in study design, dosage, and population. Almond supplementation (> 60 g/day) significantly improves oxidation status by reducing MDA, 8-OHdG, and UA while enhancing SOD activity. These findings support almonds as a functional food for oxidation management. However, high heterogeneity underscores the need for standardized trials to confirm optimal dosage, duration, and conditions. Trial registration: Prospero-CRD42025646264. © 2025. The Author(s).

BACKGROUND: There is no conclusion on the effect of vitamins E and C on plasma biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidant status. We conducted this meta-analysis to gain a clearer view of this area. METHODS: We performed a systematic search in online databases using the relevant keyword combination. Randomized controlled trials that investigated the effect of vitamins E and C simultaneously, compared with control, on oxidative stress and antioxidant status biomarkers were included in the analyses. RESULTS: A total of 17 trials were included in the meta-analysis, building a total sample size of 965. The dosage of vitamin E and C supplements varied from 54 to 536 and 250 to 1000 mg/d, respectively, across included studies. We found significant results for MDA [WMD: -0.38, 95% CI: -0.48, -0.28 µg/L, P <0.001], LP [WMD: -1.01, 95% CI: -1.49, -0.54 µg/L, P <0.001], TAC [WMD: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.13 mmol/L, P <0.001], and GPx [WMD: 1251.74, 95% CI: 258.92, 2244.56 U/L, P = 0.013], but not for SOD [WMD: 16.69, 95% CI: -29.40, 62.78 U/L, P = 0.278]. Regarding subgroup analysis, only studies on unhealthy participants showed a significant effect on MDA [WMD: -1.62, 95% CI: -2.08, -1.15 µg/L, P <0.001] and TAC [WMD: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.14 mmol/L, P <0.001], unlike LP, where significance was only observed in healthy adults [WMD: -0.41, 95% CI: -0.45, -0.37 µg/L, P <0.001]. Moreover, only studies in which a placebo was administered, supplementation of vitamins showed significant effects on MDA [WMD: -0.47, 95% CI: -0.58, -0.35 µg/L, P <0.001], LP [WMD: -1.28, 95% CI: -1.85, -0.72 µg/L, P <0.001], and TAC [WMD: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.15 mmol/L, P <0.001]. CONCLUSION: Our review and analyses revealed that a combination of vitamin C and E has a beneficial effect on oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant status. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024590197, identifier CRD42024590197.