Acta Biochimica Iranica

Seminal Plasma Biochemical Markers and Microbial Infections: Diagnostic and Pathophysiological Insights into Male Infertility

2025-09-08T06:05:02+00:00

Male infertility is a multifactorial condition, with an increasing body of evidencehighlighting the pivotal role of seminal plasma biochemical markers and microbialinfections in its pathogenesis and diagnosis. Seminal plasma, a complex fluid enrichedwith proteins, enzymes, antioxidants, and metabolites, reflects the functional statusof the male reproductive tract. Alterations in its biochemical composition, such asdecreased antioxidant capacity, disrupted energy metabolism, and elevated inflammatorymediators, are frequently associated with impaired sperm function. Concurrently,microbial infections, including those caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Escherichiacoli, can adversely affect seminal parameters through direct sperm damage, oxidativestress, and inflammatory responses. Emerging evidence suggests intricate interactionsbetween infections and the biochemical milieu in seminal plasma, which mayexacerbate sperm dysfunction and compromise fertility. This review synthesizescurrent knowledge on key seminal plasma biomarkers and their diagnostic utility andelucidates the pathophysiological mechanisms linking microbial infections to maleinfertility. Understanding these interconnected pathways offers novel insights into malereproductive health and may facilitate the development of more targeted diagnostic andtreatment strategies in the context of infertility.

The Diverse Roles of Hyaluronidase: Revealing Its Biochemical, Preclinical, and Clinical Applications

2025-09-08T06:05:01+00:00

Hyaluronidase, a group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, plays a pivotal role in modulating the extracellular matrix and enhancing tissue permeability. Hyaluronidase has gained widespread attention for its diverse biochemical properties and expanding therapeutic potential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of hyaluronidase, focusing on its biochemical characteristics, mechanisms of action, and regulatory pathways. We examine its utility in preclinical models, highlighting its role in drug delivery, tissue remodeling, and cancer research. Clinically, hyaluronidase has been employed in various domains, including ophthalmology, dermatology, oncology, and as an adjuvant in subcutaneous and intramuscular drug administration. Additionally, its role in reversing complications from dermal filler injections has led to increased use in aesthetic medicine. Despite its broad application, challenges such as immunogenicity, variability in enzyme sources, and potential adverse effects warrant continued investigation. Through an integrated analysis of current evidence, this review aims to elucidate the multifaceted roles of hyaluronidase and explore its emerging applications in modern medicine

Assessment of resistance and aerobic training with/ without Blood Flow Restriction and detraining period and their association with miR143/145 (rs4705342 and rs4705343) and IGF2BP2 (rs4402960 and rs1470579) gene polymorphisms in men with type 2 diabetes

2025-09-08T06:05:00+00:00

Objectives: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism, often leading to severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that exercise, particularly resistance training and aerobic activities, can significantly improve glycemic control and overall health in individuals with T2D. This study aimed to assess resistance and aerobic training, both with and without blood flow restriction (BFR), and genetic polymorphisms located in the miR-143/145 and IGF2BP2 gene clusters in men with T2D.

Methods: A total of 30 men with T2D were randomly assigned to four groups: resistance training with BFR (RT-BFR), resistance training without BFR (RT), aerobic training with BFR (AT-BFR), aerobic training without BFR (AT), and two control groups. Training sessions were conducted three times per week for 12 weeks, followed by a 6-week detraining period. Genotyping was performed for polymorphisms within the miR-143/145 and IGF2BP2 gene clusters using ARMS-PCR.

Results: The results of our study showed that in the AT group, the dominant genotype was TT rs4705342 TT rs4705343 GG rs4402960 AA rs1470579. In the RT group and the Control AT group, the dominant genotype was TT rs4705342 TT rs4705343 GG rs4402960 CC rs1470579. In other groups (including AT-BFR, RT-BFR, and Control RT groups), the dominant genotype was TT rs4705342 TT rs4705343 GG rs4402960 AC rs1470579.
The results were significant for AT vs. Control AT at the rs4402960 position in the recessive model. Therefore, the risk decreased by 0.74 for TT vs. GT+GG (p = 0.025). Moreover, the RT group vs. Control RT group at the rs1470579 position in the same model yielded significant results, leading to a 14-fold increase in risk for CC vs. AC+AA (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings from this research contribute valuable evidence to the ongoing discourse surrounding exercise, genetics, and diabetes management.

Aqueous chicory seed extract ameliorates diabetic kidney damage via alteration of renal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) balance

2025-09-08T06:04:59+00:00

Objectives: This study investigated the effects of aqueous chicory seed extract (CSE),metformin (Met), and aspirin (Asp) on the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) in healthyWistar rats, as well as in early (NIA/STZ) and late-stage diabetes (STZ).

Methods: Rats were divided into Control, NIA/STZ, and STZ groups. NIA/STZ ratsreceived niacinamide/streptozotocin, while STZ rats received STZ to induce early andlate stages of diabetes. Subgroups received CSE (125 mg/kg), metformin (100 mg/kg),or aspirin (120 mg/kg). Measurements included mRNA levels of AGT, ACE, and ACE2;activities of ACE and ACE2; levels of Ang II and Ang-(1-7); protein carbonyl content(PCC); nitric oxide (NO); and kidney collagen.

Results: Late-stage diabetes (STZ) decreased AGT, ACE, and ACE2 mRNA, butincreased ACE activity, Ang II, Ang-(1-7), the ACE/ACE2 ratio, PCC, and collagen.CSE increased AGT and ACE2 mRNA, and decreased ACE activity, Ang II, the ACE/ACE2 ratio, and PCC. Metformin boosted AGT mRNA and reduced PCC and collagen.Aspirin lowered collagen. Early diabetes (NIA/STZ) decreased AGT, ACE2, and Ang-(1-7), while increasing ACE activity and Ang II levels. CSE increased AGT and Ang-(1-7), and reduced Ang II and the Ang II/Ang-(1-7) ratio. Metformin reduced ACE mRNAand increased Ang-(1-7). CSE decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improvedAng-(1-7) levels, especially in early stages. Both CSE and metformin helped reducefibrosis.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that CSE supports renal tissue repair in both early andlate stages of T2D by increasing levels of the protective peptide Ang-(1-7).

Fibroblast Modulation of Invasion and Chemoresistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Insights from a Two-Cell Organoid Model

2025-09-08T06:04:58+00:00

Objectives: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype of breast cancer characterized by the absence of hormonal receptors, which limits therapeutic options. Currently, chemotherapy remains the primary treatment, although resistance often develops over time. This study aimed to develop a co-culture organoid model to investigate the role of fibroblasts in TNBC cell invasion and chemoresistance.

Methods: A two-cell organoid model using the MDA-MB-231 cell line, a model cell for TNBC, and primary human foreskin fibroblasts (HDFs) was established. Their invasion and chemotherapy response were evaluated.

Results: Our data show that the fibroblasts facilitated invasion and chemoresistance. Hence, the important role of fibroblasts in modulating TNBC cell behavior was substantiated, as the contribution of fibroblasts in the TME was shown to promote enhancement of the invasion phenotype and decrease sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs.

Conclusion: This study highlights the significance of an organoid model in reproducing the tumor microenvironment (TME); hence, it provides evidence for the involvement of fibroblasts in the formation of TNBC. Therefore, the increased drug resistance and invasion observed in organoids with fibroblasts further advocate the relevance of targeting TME components when conceiving future therapeutic strategies for TNBC

Evaluating the Incidence, Risk Factors, and Diagnostic Limitations of Transient Neonatal Tyrosinemia in Iranian Newborns

2025-09-08T06:04:57+00:00

Objectives: Transient Neonatal Tyrosinemia (TNT) is a benign, self-limiting condition characterized by elevated blood tyrosine levels in neonates. It is typically caused by immature hepatic enzymes, particularly 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (4-HPPD), and may be influenced by factors such as prematurity, low birth weight, and high protein intake. Early detection through newborn screening is critical to distinguish TNT from more severe disorders such as tyrosinemia type I. This study aimed to determine the incidence of TNT and identify perinatal factors associated with its development in Iranian neonates.

Methods: This retrospective case-control study analyzed newborn screening data from the Growth and Development Research Center’s metabolic laboratory between March 2019 and February 2023. Infants with normal screening results during the same period were included as the control group.

Results: A total of 73,349 infants underwent metabolic screening. The incidence of TNT was 0.47%, corresponding to 345 diagnosed cases. Compared to the control group, infants with TNT had lower gestational age (37.7 ± 1.4 weeks), lower birth weight (2.94 ± 0.5 kg), and a higher rate of cesarean deliveries (83.9%) (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between TNT and preterm birth (OR: 868.2, 95% CI: 168.9–4212.7, P < 0.001), cesarean delivery (OR: 3.5, 95% CI: 2.26–5.3, P < 0.001), and gestational age (OR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.12–0.24, P < 0.001). No significant associations were found with other parameters (P ≥ 0.05).

Conclusion: The incidence of TNT in Iranian newborns is associated with prematurity and cesarean delivery. Optimizing screening protocols and encouraging vaginal delivery when feasible may help reduce TNT rates

Evaluation of Leucomethylene Blue as a Protective Agent Against Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Lung Injury

2025-09-08T06:04:56+00:00

Objectives: Acetaminophen overdose may lead to acute pulmonary complications, such as acute lung injury, due to its harmful effects on cellular systems caused by oxidative stress. Leucomethylene blue (LMB) may have beneficial effects by improving hemodynamic stability and reducing oxidative damage through its nitric oxide synthase inhibitory and antioxidant activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of LMB on acetaminophen-induced pulmonary injury in rats.

Methods: Lung samples were collected from 30 male Wistar rats, which were randomly divided into five groups and frozen for later analysis. The groups included control, acetaminophen, N-acetylcysteine (NAC)-treated, LMB-treated, and NAC+LMB combination-treated. We evaluated total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione reductase (GR), TNF-α and IL-6 levels, histopathology, and relevant tissue remodeling changes.

Results: Our results demonstrated that the administration of LMB significantly diminished the oxidative and inflammatory damage caused by APAP toxicity in the lungs. LMB restored TAC and GR activity, which were significantly reduced by APAP toxicity. Additionally, LMB restricted the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines released from lung tissue. Moreover, LMB substantially counteracted the pulmonary lesions caused by APAP, including edema, hemorrhage, and infiltration of inflammatory cells, as confirmed by histopathological analysis.

Conclusion: The results of this study show that LMB can effectively reduce lung damage caused by acetaminophen poisoning

Serum CTRP1 Levels in Candidates for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

2025-09-08T06:04:55+00:00

Objectives: C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein 1 (CTRP1) is an adipokine that plays crucial roles in the cardiovascular system, and its dysregulation has been reported in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). In this study, our aim was to measure the level of CTRP1 in patients who were candidates for cardiac bypass surgery.

Methods: The participants consisted of 30 candidates for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and an additional 30 controls. Inflammatory parameters and the level of CTRP1 were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits.

Results: Serum CTRP1 levels significantly increased in the patient group compared to the control group (p-value < 0.0001). Furthermore, CTRP1 level was positively correlated with the inflammatory parameters.

Conclusion: Elevated levels of CTRP1, along with inflammation in CAD, suggest the involvement of CTRP1 in inflammatory responses. However, this finding needs to be confirmed in further studies including a larger population