Thioredoxin interacting protein regulates age-associated neuroinflammation

Immune system hypersensitivity is believed to contribute to mental frailty in the elderly. Solid evidence indicates NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing-3 (NLRP3)-inflammasome activation intimately connects aging-associated chronic inflammation (inflammaging) to senile cognitive decline. Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP), an inducible protein involved in oxidative stress, is essential for NLRP3 inflammasome activity. This study aims to find whether TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway is involved in senile dementia. According to our studies on sex-matched mice, TXNIP was significantly upregulated in aged animals, paralleled by the NLRP3-inflammasome over-activity leading to enhanced caspase-1 cleavage and IL-1β maturation, in both sexes. This was closely associated with depletion of the anti-aging and cognition enhancing protein klotho, in aged males. Txnip knockout reversed age-related NLRP3-hyperactivity and enhanced thioredoxin (TRX) levels. Further, TXNIP inhibition along with verapamil replicated TXNIP/NLRP3-inflammasome downregulation in aged animals, with FOXO-1 and mTOR upregulation. These alterations concurred with substantial improvements in both cognitive and sensorimotor abilities. Together, these findings substantiate the pivotal role of TXNIP to drive inflammaging in parallel with klotho depletion and functional decline, and delineate thioredoxin system as a potential target to decelerate senile dementia

Surface evaluations of a nanocomposite after different finishing and polishing systems for anterior and posterior restorations

This study aims to evaluate the effects of different finishing and polishing (F/P) systems on gloss and surface morphology of a new nanocomposite. Thirty discs of Filtek Universal Restorative material (3 M, ESPE) were prepared and divided into six groups (n = 5). Group A and B followed F/P protocols for anterior restorations, whereas Group C and D for posterior ones. Group E represented the control (covered by Mylar strip) and Group F represented the nanocomposite placement by means of clinical hand instruments; Groups E and F did not undergo F/P procedures. Among the polished groups, Group B showed the highest values (68.54 ± 7.54 GU), followed by Group A and D (46.87 ± 5.52 GU; 53.76 ± 2.65 GU). Finally, Group C (37.38 ± 4.93 GU) displayed the lowest results. Overall, Group E showed the highest gloss values (93.45 ± 8.27 GU), while Group F presented the lowest ones (1.74 ± 0.64 GU). Surface analysis revealed that Group A, C, and D displayed a smooth surface. Group B showed the lowest irregularities. Group E exhibited the most uniform superficial morphology. On the other hand, Group F displayed the most irregular one. In conclusion, using the tested material, only two protocols achieved appropriate gloss values. Then, clinicians might use the protocols of Group B and Group D, for anterior and posterior restorations, respectively