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Antioxidants
Special Issues
Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress
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Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 March 2025) | Viewed by 23082

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Selva Rivas-Arancibia

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory of Oxidative Stress and Brain Plasticity, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacan, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
Interests: environmental pollution; oxidative stress; inflammatory response; immune response; regulatory T cells; epigenetic; degenerative diseases; autoimmune diseases; antioxidants

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The effect of environmental pollution on the population is a severe public health problem, mainly in highly populated cities and highly industrialized places. Repeated exposure to environmental pollutants, such as ozone and suspended particles, is directly associated with non-infectious chronic degenerative diseases, as well as with their progression. There are multiple ways by which environmental pollution is associated with degenerative diseases. However, it is demonstrated that air pollution by ozone or suspended particles causes oxidative stress and a chronic inflammatory response that has lost its regulation. Considering the role of oxidative signals in cell evolution and their role in the homeostasis of physiological functions, we can understand why chronic alterations in redox signaling lead to impaired signaling in both cells and the organism. These cause a vicious circle between the state of oxidative stress and the loss of regulation of the inflammatory response in degenerative diseases since, once the degenerative process is triggered, it is not possible to reverse it. Therefore, ozone contaminations and suspended particles are associated with autoimmune, cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, strokes, cancer, degenerative and neurodegenerative diseases, etc.

Prof. Dr. Selva Rivas-Arancibia
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • environmental pollution
  • oxidative stress
  • inflammatory response
  • immune response
  • regulatory T cells
  • epigenetic
  • degenerative diseases
  • autoimmune diseases
  • antioxidants

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 4072 KiB  
Article
Postbiotic Sodium Butyrate Mitigates Hypertension and Kidney Dysfunction in Juvenile Rats Exposed to Microplastics
by You-Lin Tain, Ying-Jui Lin, Chih-Yao Hou, Guo-Ping Chang-Chien, Shu-Fen Lin and Chien-Ning Hsu
Antioxidants 2025, 14(3), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14030276 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 733
Abstract
Background: Plastic production has led to widespread microplastic (MP) pollution, with children more vulnerable to MPs than adults. However, the mechanisms linking MP exposure to hypertension and kidney disease in children remain unclear. This study explored whether sodium butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid [...] Read more.
Background: Plastic production has led to widespread microplastic (MP) pollution, with children more vulnerable to MPs than adults. However, the mechanisms linking MP exposure to hypertension and kidney disease in children remain unclear. This study explored whether sodium butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, could mitigate MP-induced hypertension and kidney damage in juvenile rats. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (3 weeks old) were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8/group): control, low-dose MP (1 mg/L), high-dose MP (10 mg/L), and high-dose MP with sodium butyrate (400 mg/kg/day). Rats were euthanized at 12 weeks. Results: High-dose MP exposure impaired kidney function and increased blood pressure, which were alleviated by sodium butyrate through reduced oxidative stress, modulation of gut microbiota, increased plasma butyric acid levels, and enhanced renal SCFA-sensing G protein-coupled receptor 43 expression. Conclusions: Sodium butyrate holds potential for mitigating MP-induced hypertension by reducing oxidative stress, modulating the gut microbiota, and elevating butyric acid levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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15 pages, 1698 KiB  
Article
How Bacteria Cope with Oxidative Stress Induced by Cadmium: Volatile Communication Is Differentially Perceived among Strains
by Paulo Cardoso, Ricardo Pinto, Tiago Lopes and Etelvina Figueira
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050565 - 3 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1778
Abstract
Soil is an environment with numerous niches, where bacteria are exposed to diverse conditions. Some bacteria are exposed earlier than others to pressure, and the emission of signals that other bacteria can receive and perceive may allow a better response to an eminent [...] Read more.
Soil is an environment with numerous niches, where bacteria are exposed to diverse conditions. Some bacteria are exposed earlier than others to pressure, and the emission of signals that other bacteria can receive and perceive may allow a better response to an eminent stimulus. To shed light on how bacteria trigger their response and adapt to changes in the environment, the intra- and interspecific influences of volatiles on bacterial strains growing under non-stressed and cadmium-stressed conditions were assessed. Each strain was exposed to its volatiles emitted by cells growing under different conditions to test whether the environment in which a cell grows influences neighboring cells. The five genera tested showed different responses, with Rhizobium displaying the greatest influence. In a second experiment, 13 strains from different genera were grown under control conditions but exposed to volatiles released by Cd-stressed Rhizobium cells to ascertain whether Rhizobium’s observed influence was strain-specific or broader. Our results showed that the volatiles emitted by some bacteria under stress are differentially perceived and translated into biochemical changes (growth, alteration of the antioxidant response, and oxidative damage) by other bacteria, which may increase the adaptability and resilience of bacterial communities to environmental changes, especially those with a prooxidant nature. Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soils constitutes a risk to the environment and human health. Here, we showed the effects of Cd exposure on bacteria and how volatile communication influences the biochemistry related to coping with oxidative stress. This knowledge can be important for remediation and risk assessment and highlights that new biological features, such as volatile communication, should be considered when studying and assessing the impact of contaminants on soil ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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19 pages, 7535 KiB  
Article
Protective Effects of Isoliquiritigenin and Licochalcone B on the Immunotoxicity of BDE-47: Antioxidant Effects Based on the Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway and Inhibition of the NF-κB Pathway
by Minghui Dong, Ziying Yang, Qian Gao, Qingyuan Deng, Le Li and Hongmei Chen
Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040445 - 10 Apr 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1821
Abstract
2,2′,4,4′-Tetrabrominated biphenyl ether (BDE-47) is a polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) homologue that is ubiquitous in biological samples and highly toxic to humans and other organisms. Prior research has confirmed that BDE-47 can induce oxidative damage in RAW264.7 cells, resulting in apoptosis and impaired [...] Read more.
2,2′,4,4′-Tetrabrominated biphenyl ether (BDE-47) is a polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) homologue that is ubiquitous in biological samples and highly toxic to humans and other organisms. Prior research has confirmed that BDE-47 can induce oxidative damage in RAW264.7 cells, resulting in apoptosis and impaired immune function. The current study mainly focused on how Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) and Licochalcone B (LCB) might protect against BDE-47’s immunotoxic effects on RAW264.7 cells. The results show that ISL and LCB could increase phagocytosis, increase the production of MHC-II, and decrease the production of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and co-stimulatory factors (CD40, CD80, and CD86), alleviating the immune function impairment caused by BDE-47. Secondly, both ISL and LCB could reduce the expressions of the proteins Bax and Caspase-3, promote the expression of the protein Bcl-2, and reduce the apoptotic rate, alleviating the apoptosis initiated by BDE-47. Additionally, ISL and LCB could increase the levels of antioxidant substances (SOD, CAT, and GSH) and decrease the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby counteracting the oxidative stress induced by BDE-47. Ultimately, ISL and LCB suppress the NF-κB pathway by down-regulating IKBKB and up-regulating IκB-Alpha in addition to activating the Nrf2 pathway and promoting the production of HO-1 and NQO1. To summarize, BDE-47 causes oxidative damage that can be mitigated by ISL and LCB through the activation of the Nrf2 pathway and inhibition of the NF-κB pathway, which in turn prevents immune function impairment and apoptosis. These findings enrich the current understanding of the toxicological molecular mechanism of BDE-47 and the detoxification mechanism of licorice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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Review

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57 pages, 2020 KiB  
Review
Therapeutic Potential of Herbal Medicines in Combating Particulate Matter (PM)-Induced Health Effects: Insights from Recent Studies
by Aekkhaluck Intharuksa, Warunya Arunotayanun, Mingkwan Na Takuathung, Yaowatat Boongla, Siripat Chaichit, Suthiwat Khamnuan and Anchalee Prasansuklab
Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010023 - 27 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1825
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM), particularly fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine (PM0.1) particles, originates from both natural and anthropogenic sources, such as biomass burning and vehicle emissions. These particles contain harmful compounds that pose significant health risks. Upon inhalation, ingestion, or dermal [...] Read more.
Particulate matter (PM), particularly fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine (PM0.1) particles, originates from both natural and anthropogenic sources, such as biomass burning and vehicle emissions. These particles contain harmful compounds that pose significant health risks. Upon inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact, PM can penetrate biological systems, inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage, which contribute to a range of health complications. This review comprehensively examines the protective potential of natural products against PM-induced health issues across various physiological systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, skin, neurological, gastrointestinal, and ocular systems. It provides valuable insights into the health risks associated with PM exposure and highlights the therapeutic promise of herbal medicines by focusing on the natural products that have demonstrated protective properties in both in vitro and in vivo PM2.5-induced models. Numerous herbal medicines and phytochemicals have shown efficacy in mitigating PM-induced cellular damage through their ability to counteract oxidative stress, suppress pro-inflammatory responses, and enhance cellular defense mechanisms. These combined actions collectively protect tissues from PM-related damage and dysfunction. This review establishes a foundation for future research and the development of effective interventions to combat PM-related health issues. However, further studies, including in vivo and clinical trials, are essential to evaluate the safety, optimal dosages, and long-term effectiveness of herbal treatments for patients under chronic PM exposure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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22 pages, 5491 KiB  
Review
The Detoxification Effects of Melatonin on Aflatoxin-Caused Toxic Effects and Underlying Molecular Mechanisms
by Chongshan Dai, Daowen Li, Tony Velkov, Jianzhong Shen and Zhihui Hao
Antioxidants 2024, 13(12), 1528; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13121528 - 13 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1435
Abstract
Aflatoxins (AFTs) are a form of mycotoxins mainly produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which are common contaminants in various agricultural sources such as feed, milk, food, and grain crops. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most toxic one among all AFTs. [...] Read more.
Aflatoxins (AFTs) are a form of mycotoxins mainly produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which are common contaminants in various agricultural sources such as feed, milk, food, and grain crops. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most toxic one among all AFTs. AFB1 undergoes bioactivation into AFB1-8,9-epoxide, then leads to diverse harmful effects such as neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, nephrotoxicity, and immunotoxicity, with specific molecular mechanisms varying in different pathologies. The detoxification of AFB1 is of great importance for safeguarding the health of animals and humans and has increasingly attracted global attention. Recent research has shown that melatonin supplementation can effectively mitigate AFB1-induced multiple toxic effects. The protection mechanisms of melatonin involve the inhibition of oxidative stress, the upregulation of antioxidant enzyme activity, the reduction of mitochondrial dysfunction, the inactivation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, the blockade of inflammatory responses, and the attenuation of cytochrome P450 enzymes’ expression and activities. In summary, this review sheds new light on the potential role of melatonin as a potential detoxifying agent against AFB1. Further exploration of the precise molecular mechanisms and clinical efficacy of this promising treatment is urgently needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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36 pages, 9902 KiB  
Review
Particulate Matter-Induced Emerging Health Effects Associated with Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
by Eun Yeong Lim and Gun-Dong Kim
Antioxidants 2024, 13(10), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13101256 - 17 Oct 2024
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4525
Abstract
Environmental pollution continues to increase with industrial development and has become a threat to human health. Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) was designated as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2013 and is an emerging global environmental [...] Read more.
Environmental pollution continues to increase with industrial development and has become a threat to human health. Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) was designated as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2013 and is an emerging global environmental risk factor that is a major cause of death related to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. PM is a complex composed of highly reactive organic matter, chemicals, and metal components, which mainly cause excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can lead to DNA and cell damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammatory responses, atherosclerosis, and airway remodeling, contributing to an increased susceptibility to and the exacerbation of various diseases and infections. PM has various effects on human health depending on the particle size, physical and chemical characteristics, source, and exposure period. PM smaller than 5 μm can penetrate and accumulate in the alveoli and circulatory system, causing harmful effects on the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, skin, and brain. In this review, we describe the relationship and mechanism of ROS-mediated cell damage, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses caused by PM and the health effects on major organs, as well as comprehensively discuss the harmfulness of PM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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17 pages, 2487 KiB  
Review
Light Pollution and Oxidative Stress: Effects on Retina and Human Health
by Rocío Salceda
Antioxidants 2024, 13(3), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13030362 - 18 Mar 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6978
Abstract
Visible light refers to the frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum that humans can see, encompassing radiation with wavelengths falling between 380 nm to 760 nm. The energy of a single photon increases with its frequency. In the retina, photoreceptor cells contain light-sensitive pigments [...] Read more.
Visible light refers to the frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum that humans can see, encompassing radiation with wavelengths falling between 380 nm to 760 nm. The energy of a single photon increases with its frequency. In the retina, photoreceptor cells contain light-sensitive pigments that absorb light and convert it into electrical stimuli through a process known as phototransduction. However, since the absorption spectrum of photoreceptors closely aligns with blue light (ranging from 400 to 500 nm), exposure to high light intensities or continuous illumination can result in oxidative stress within these cells, leading to a loss of their functionality. Apart from photoreceptor cells, the retina also houses photosensitive ganglion cells, known as intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). These cells relay information to the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain, playing a crucial role in modulating melatonin secretion, which in turn helps in synchronizing the body’s circadian rhythms and responses to seasonal changes. Both, ipRGCs and skin possess a peak sensitivity to blue wavelengths, rendering them particularly susceptible to the effects of excessive blue light exposure. This study delves into the consequences of excessive illumination and/or prolonged exposure to blue light on retinal function and explores its implications for human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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14 pages, 2656 KiB  
Review
Ozone Environmental Pollution: Relationship between the Intestine and Neurodegenerative Diseases
by Selva Rivas-Arancibia, Alfredo Miranda-Martínez, Erika Rodríguez-Martínez, Eduardo Hernández-Orozco, Marlen Valdés-Fuentes and Roberto De la Rosa-Sierra
Antioxidants 2023, 12(7), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12071323 - 22 Jun 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2756
Abstract
Repeated exposure to environmental ozone causes a chronic state of oxidative stress. This state is present in chronic degenerative diseases and induces a loss of control of the inflammatory response. Redox system dysfunction and failures in control of inflammatory responses are involved in [...] Read more.
Repeated exposure to environmental ozone causes a chronic state of oxidative stress. This state is present in chronic degenerative diseases and induces a loss of control of the inflammatory response. Redox system dysfunction and failures in control of inflammatory responses are involved in a vicious circle that maintains and increases the degenerative process. The intestine also responds to secondary reactive species formed by exposure to ozone doses, generating noxious stimuli that increase degenerative damage. This review aims to elucidate how environmental pollution, mainly by ozone, induces a state of chronic oxidative stress with the loss of regulation of the inflammatory response, both in the intestine and in the brain, where the functionality of both structures is altered and plays a determining role in some neurodegenerative and chronic degenerative diseases. For this purpose, we searched for information on sites such as the Cochrane Library Database, PubMed, Scopus, and Medscape. Reviewing the data published, we can conclude that environmental pollutants are a severe health problem. Ozone pollution has different pathways of action, both molecular and systemic, and participates in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease as well in bowel diseases as Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Crohn’s Disease, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Oxidative Stress)
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