Perindopril Dampens Cd-induced Nephrotoxicity by Suppressing Inflammatory Burden, Ang II/Ang 1-7, and Apoptosis Signaling Pathways

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most abundant toxic heavy metals, and its exposure is linked to serious kidney intoxication, a major health problem. Evidence reported that inflammatory damage is a key factor in Cd renal intoxication. Perindopril (PER) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor approved for treating hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. Significantly, RAS activation results in inflammatory damage. Our study aimed to examine the renoprotective effects of PER in Cd-induced nephrotoxicity, the impact of inflammation, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. PER was given at a dose of 1 mg/kg per day. Cd was injected at a dose of 1.2 mg/kg, as a single dose. Treatment with PER led to a significant decrease in serum levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, and urine albumin/creatinine ratio. PER effectively mitigated inflammation by decreasing MPO, NO, IL-1β, IL-6, and INF-γ levels mediated by downregulating NF-κB expression and suppressing JAK-1 and STAT3 phosphorylation. PER modulates Ang II/Ang 1-7 axis in Cd-intoxicated rats by decreasing Ang II expression and increasing Ang-(1-7) expression. PER inhibits Cd-induced apoptosis by lowering Bax, cytochrome c, and cleaved caspase 3 expressions while increasing Bcl-2 expression. In conclusion, PER dampens Cd-induced kidney intoxication by modulating Ang II/Ang 1-7 axis, suppressing NF-κB, JAK-1/STAT3, and apoptosis signals.

Candesartan Protects Against Cadmium-Induced Hepatorenal Syndrome by Affecting Nrf2, NF-κB, Bax/Bcl-2/Cyt-C, and Ang II/Ang 1-7 Signals

Cadmium (Cd) is a serious pollutant in the environment. Candesartan is an angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor antagonist with promising diverse health benefits. The current study is planned to investigate the hepatorenal protective effects of candesartan against Cd-induced hepatic and renal intoxication. Our results demonstrated that candesartan effectively attenuated Cd-induced hepatorenal intoxication, as evidenced by improving hepatic and renal function biomarkers. Besides, candesartan reversed hepatic and renal histopathological abrasions induced by Cd toxicity. Candesartan antioxidant effect was mediated by Nrf2 activation. Also, candesartan suppressed hepatorenal inflammation by modulating NF-κB/IκB. Moreover, candesartan attenuated Cd hepatorenal apoptosis by upregulating Bcl-2 and downregulating Bax and Cyt-C proteins. Interestingly, these effects are suggested to be an outcome of modulating of Ang II/Ang 1-7 signal. Overall, our findings revealed that candesartan could attenuate Cd-induced hepatorenal intoxication through modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB/IκB, Bax/Bcl-2/Cyt-c, and Ang II/Ang 1-7 signaling pathways.

Dual Topoisomerase I/II Inhibition-Induced Apoptosis and Necro-Apoptosis in Cancer Cells by a Novel Ciprofloxacin Derivative via RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL Activation

Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents that have been recently repurposed to anticancer candidates. Designing new derivatives of FQs with different moieties to target DNA topoisomerases could improve their anticancer efficacy. The present study aimed to synthesize a novel ciprofloxacin derivative, examine its anticancer activity against HepG2 and A549 cancer cells, and investigate the possible molecular mechanism underlying this activity by examining its ability to inhibit the topo I/II activity and to induce the apoptotic and necro-apoptotic pathways. Molecular docking, cell viability, cell migration, colony formation, cell cycle, Annexin V, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, ELISA, and western blotting assays were utilized. Molecular docking results showed that this novel ciprofloxacin derivative exerted dual topo I and topo II binding and inhibition. It significantly inhibited the proliferation of A549 and HepG2 cancer cells and decreased their cell migration and colony formation abilities. In addition, it significantly increased the % of apoptotic cells, caused cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, and elevated the LDH release levels in both cancer cells. Furthermore, it increased the expression of cleaved caspase 3, RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL proteins. This novel ciprofloxacin derivative exerted substantial dual inhibition of topo I/II enzyme activities, showed antiproliferative activity, suppressed the cell migration and colony formation abilities for A549 and HepG2 cancer cells and activated the apoptotic pathway. In addition, it initiated another backup deadly pathway, necro-apoptosis, through the activation of the RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL pathway.

Inhibition of NF-kB/IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 Pathway and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer Cells by Azilsartan

Metastatic breast cancer is an incurable form of breast cancer that exhibits high levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. Angiotensin II has been linked to various signaling pathways involved in tumor cell growth and metastasis. The aim of this study is to investigate, for the first time, the anti-proliferative activity of azilsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, against breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 at the molecular level. Cell viability, cell cycle, apoptosis, colony formation, and cell migration assays were performed. RT-PCR and western blotting analysis were used to explain the molecular mechanism. Azilsartan significantly decreased the cancer cells survival, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and inhibited colony formation and cell migration abilities. Furthermore, azilsartan reduced the mRNA levels of NF-kB, TWIST, SNAIL, SLUG and bcl2, and increased the mRNA level of bax. Additionally, azilsartan inhibited the expression of IL-6, JAK2, STAT3, MMP9 and bcl2 proteins, and increased the expression of bax, c-PARP and cleaved caspase 3 protein. Interestingly, it reduced the in vivo metastatic capacity of MDA-MBA-231 breast cancer cells. In conclusion, the present study revealed, for the first time, the anti-proliferative, apoptotic, anti-migration and EMT inhibition activities of azilsartan against breast cancer cells through modulating NF-kB/IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MMP9, TWIST/SNAIL/SLUG and apoptosis signaling pathways.

The involvement of Nrf2/HO-1/cytoglobin and Ang-II/NF-κB signals in the cardioprotective mechanism of lansoprazole against cisplatin-induced heart injury

Cardiac toxicity is a serious adverse effect of cisplatin (CIS). Lansoprazole (LPZ) is a proton pump inhibitor with promising cardioprotective effects. Our study planned to examine the cardioprotective effect of LPZ against CIS-induced cardiac injury. To achieve this goal, thirty-two male rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups. CIS, 7 mg/kg, was injected i.p. on the 5^th day of the experiment. LPZ was administered via oral gavage at a dose of 50 mg/kg. The present study revealed that CIS injection induced a remarkable cardiac injury evidenced by an increase in serum ALP, AST, CK-MB, LDH, and troponin-I levels. The cardiac oxidative damage was also observed after CIS injection and mediated by down-regulation of GSH, SOD, GST, Nrf2, HO-1, PPAR-γ, and cytoglobin levels associated with the up-regulation of MDA content. Besides, CIS injection caused a significant inflammatory reaction mediated by alteration of cardiac NF-κB, STAT-3, p-STAT-3, and IκB expressions. Additionally, cardiac Ang-II expression was significantly increased in CIS control rats, while Ang 1-7 expression was significantly reduced relative to normal rats. In contrast, LPZ administration remarkably ameliorated these changes in the heart of CIS-intoxicated rats. Collectively, LPZ potently attenuated cardiac toxicity induced by CIS via regulation of Nrf2/HO-1, PPAR-γ, cytoglobin, IκB/NF-κB/STAT-3, and Ang-II/Ang 1-7 signals.

The importance of natural chalcones in ischemic organ damage: Comprehensive and bioinformatic analysis review

Over the last few decades, extensive research has been conducted, yielding a detailed account of thousands of newly discovered compounds of natural origin and their biological activities, all of which have the potential to be used for a wide range of therapeutic purposes. There are multiple research papers denoting the central objective of chalcones, which have been shown to have therapeutic potential against various forms of ischemia. The various aspects of chalcones are discussed in this review regarding molecular mechanisms involved in the promising anti-ischemic potential of these chalcones. The main mechanisms involved in these protective effects are Nrf2/Akt activation and NF-κB/TLR4 suppression. Furthermore, in-silico studies were carried out to discover the probable binding of these chalcones to Keap-1 (an inhibitor of Nrf2), Akt, NF-κB, and TLR4 protein molecules. Besides, network pharmacology analysis was conducted to predict the interacting partners of these signals. The obtained results indicated that Nrf2, Akt, NF-κB, and TLR4 are involved in the beneficial anti-ischemic actions of chalcones. Conclusively, the present findings show that chalcones as anti-ischemic agents have a valid rationale. The discussed studies will provide a comprehensive viewpoint on chalcones and can help to optimize their effects in different ischemia. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Ischemic organ damage is an unavoidable pathological condition with a high worldwide incidence. According to the current research progress, natural chalcones have been proved to treat and/or prevent various types of ischemic organ damage by alleviating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis by different molecular mechanisms. This article displays the comprehensive research progress and the molecular basis of ischemic organ damage pathophysiology and introduces natural chalcones' mechanism in the ischemic organ condition.

Renoprotective effect of vinpocetine against ischemia/reperfusion injury: Modulation of NADPH oxidase/Nrf2, IKKβ/NF-κB p65, and cleaved caspase-3 expressions

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) during kidney transplantation is a serious clinical problem with a high mortality rate and a lack of therapy. Therefore, there is a need to improve the ability of the kidney to tolerate IRI during transplantation. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effect of vinpocetine; a derivative of vincamine alkaloid; against renal IRI in rats with the elucidation of the involved mechanisms. Vinpocetine (25 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered for 10 successive days before the induction of ischemia by bilateral clamping of both renal pedicles for 45 min followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Blood and renal tissue samples were then collected for biochemical, molecular, and histopathological investigations. Vinpocetine significantly reduced serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in rats subjected to IRI. It also reduced mRNA expression of NADPH oxidase and renal content of malondialdehyde, while enhanced Nrf2 protein expression and renal content of reduced glutathione. The suppression of the provoked inflammatory response was evident by the downregulation of IKKβ and NF-κB p65 protein expressions, as well as their downstream inflammatory markers; tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and myeloperoxidase. In addition, vinpocetine reduced protein expression of the apoptotic executioner cleaved caspase-3. These nephroprotective effects were confirmed by the improvement in histopathological features. Collectively, the protective effect of vinpocetine against IRI could be attributed to modulation of NADPH oxidase/Nrf2, IKKβ/NF-κB p65, and cleaved caspase-3 expressions. Thus, vinpocetine could improve oxidant/antioxidant balance, suppress triggered inflammatory response, and promote renal cell survival after IRI.

Impact of the ACE2 activator xanthenone on tacrolimus nephrotoxicity: Modulation of uric acid/ERK/p38 MAPK and Nrf2/SOD3/GCLC signaling pathways

AIMS

The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus is an effective and widely used immunosuppressant after organ transplantation to reduce graft rejection. However, its nephrotoxic effect could compel the patients to treatment discontinuation. The beneficial effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the kidney and other organs have been investigated in several studies, but its role in tacrolimus nephrotoxicity still needs to be elucidated. Our study was designed to investigate effects of the ACE2 activator xanthenone on tacrolimus-induced renal injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats were administered xanthenone (2 mg/kg) concurrently with tacrolimus (1 mg/kg) for 3 weeks, then blood and kidney tissue samples were collected for biochemical and molecular investigations.

KEY FINDINGS

Co-administration of xanthenone significantly improved renal functions in tacrolimus-treated rats, where serum creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels were close to those of the normal control. Besides, xanthenone reduced renal angiotensin (ANG) II content, while elevated ANG (1-7). Relative protein expressions of p-ERK/ERK and p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK inflammatory signals were downregulated upon xanthenone administration with tacrolimus. In addition, xanthenone reinforced antioxidant defense against tacrolimus by enhancing protein expression of the transcription factor Nrf2 with subsequently increased mRNA expressions of the antioxidants SOD3 and GCLC.

SIGNIFICANCE

These protective effects of xanthenone could be attributed to ANG II degradation to ANG (1-7) by ACE2 activation resulting in regulated inflammatory and oxidative responses in the kidney. Therefore, administration of xanthenone along with tacrolimus could be a promising therapeutic strategy to reduce the adverse effects and increase the tolerability to tacrolimus immunosuppressive therapy.

Hepatoprotective effect of acetovanillone against methotrexate hepatotoxicity: Role of Keap-1/Nrf2/ARE, IL6/STAT-3, and NF-κB/AP-1 signaling pathways

This study targeted to examine the protective effects of acetovanillone (AV) against methotrexate (MTX)-induced hepatotoxicity. Thirty-two rats were allocated into four groups of eight animals; Group 1: Normal; Group 2: administered AV (100 ml/kg; P.O.) for 10 days; Group 3: challenged with MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p; single dose); Group 4: administered AV 5 days before and 5 days after MTX. For the first time, this study affords evidence for AV's hepatoprotective effects on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. The underlined mechanisms behind its hepatic protection include counteracting MTX-induced oxidative injury via down-regulation of NADPH oxidase and up-regulation of Nrf2/ARE, SIRT1, PPARγ, and cytoglobin signals. Additionally, AV attenuated hepatic inflammation through down-regulation of IL-6/STAT-3 and NF-κB/AP-1 signaling. Network pharmacology analysis exhibited a high enrichment score between the interacting proteins and strongly suggested the intricate and essential role of the target proteins regulating MTX-induced oxidative damage and inflammatory perturbation. Besides, AV increased the in vitro cytotoxic activity of MTX toward PC-3, HeLa, and K562 cancer cell lines. On the whole, our investigation suggested that AV might be regarded as a promising adjuvant for the amelioration of MTX hepatotoxicity and/or increased its in vitro antitumor efficacy, and it could be used in patients receiving MTX.

Umbelliferone alleviates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion-induced oxidative stress injury via targeting Keap-1/Nrf-2/ARE and TLR4/NF-κB-p65 signaling pathway

Umbelliferone (UMB; 7-hydroxycoumarin) is a natural compound that exhibited a diversity of pharmacological activities. Its protective effects against various ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injuries, including heart, kidney, and testis, have been observed. However, their effect on hepatic IR is still not investigated yet. Here, this study was conducted to examine the potential protective role of UMB during the early phase of hepatic IR injury via targeting Keap-1/Nrf-2/ARE and its closely related signaling pathway, TLR4/NF-κB-p65. Experimentally, forty Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: Sham control group (received 1% carboxymethyl cellulose as a vehicle), UMB group (30 mg/kg/day, P.O.), IR group (subjected to complete hepatic IR injury), and IR + UMB group. Our results revealed that oral UMB effectively reduced the serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH along with the restoration of oxidant/antioxidant status. At the molecular level, UMB markedly activated Nrf-2 expression and its down-streaming targets: HO-1, NQO1, GCLC, SOD3, and TNXRD1, along with Keap-1 down-regulation. Besides, UMB significantly down-regulated NF-κB-p65 and TLR4 expressions with subsequent decreased TNF-α and IL-1β levels coupled with the up-regulation of the IL-10 level. Finally, biochemical findings were confirmed by attenuation of histopathological changes in liver tissues. Together, UMB is a promising agent for the amelioration of liver tissues against IR-induced oxidative injury through activation of the Keap-1/Nrf-2/ARE signaling pathway along with suppression of its closely related signaling pathways: TLR4/NF-κB-p65. Illustrated diagram explored the prospective underlying protective mechanism of UMB against IR-induced hepatic damage.

Regulation of Keap-1/Nrf2/AKT and iNOS/NF-κB/TLR4 signals by apocynin abrogated methotrexate-induced testicular toxicity: Mechanistic insights and computational pharmacological analysis

AIM

Male reproductive toxicity is becoming of growing significance due to clinical chemotherapy usage. Methotrexate (MTX) is an anti-folate used on a large scale for different tumors and autoimmune conditions. Despite its wide clinical use, MTX is associated with severe testicular intoxication. The exact underlying mechanism is unclear.

METHODS

Our study was conducted to explore the pathogenesis mechanism of MTX-induced testicular damage and the potential testicular protective effects of apocynin (APO) on testicular injury induced by single i.p. MTX (20 mg/kg). APO was administered orally (100 mg/kg) for ten days.

RESULTS

As compared to rats given MTX alone, co-administration of MTX with APO demonstrated multiple beneficial effects evidenced by a marked increase in testosterone, FSH, and LH and significantly restored testes histopathological alterations. Mechanistically, APO restored antioxidant status through up-regulation of Nrf2, cytoglobin, PPAR-γ, SIRT1, AKT, and p-AKT, while effectively lowering Keap-1. Moreover, APO significantly attenuated inflammation by down-regulating NF-κB-p65, iNOS, and TLR4 expressions confirmed by in-silico evidence. Additionally, network pharmacology analysis, a bioinformatics approach, was used to decipher various cellular processes' molecular mechanisms.

SIGNIFICANCE

The current investigation proves the beneficial effects of APO in MTX-associated testicular damage through activation of cytoglobin, Keap-1/Nrf2/AKT, PPAR-γ, SIRT1, and suppressing of TLR4/NF-κB-p65 signal. Our data collectively encourage extending the investigation to the clinical setting to explore APO effects in MTX-treated patients.

Role of TLR-4/IL-6/TNF-α, COX-II and eNOS/iNOS pathways in the impact of carvedilol against hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury

AIM

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a syndrome involved in allograft dysfunction. This work aimed to elucidate carvedilol (CAR) role in hepatic I/R injury.

METHODS

Male rats were allocated to Sham group, CAR group, I/R group and CAR plus I/R group. Rats subjected to hepatic ischemia for 30 minutes then reperfused for 60 minutes. Oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide synthases were measured in hepatic tissues.

RESULTS

Hepatocyte injury following I/R was confirmed by a marked increase in liver enzymes. Also, hepatic I/R increased the contents of malondialdehyde however decreased glutathione contents and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, hepatic I/R caused elevation of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) expression and inflammatory mediators levels such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and cyclooxygenase-II. Hepatic I/R caused down-regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase expressions. CAR treatment before hepatic I/R resulted in the restoration of liver enzymes. Administration of CAR caused a significant correction of oxidative stress and inflammation markers as well as modulates the expression of endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthase.

CONCLUSIONS

CAR protects liver from I/R injury through reduction of the oxidative stress and inflammation, and modulates endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthase expressions.

Pretreatment with Coenzyme Q10 Combined with Aescin Protects against Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury

Sepsis-associated acute lung injury (ALI) is a critical condition characterized by severe inflammatory response and mitochondrial dysfunction. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and aescin (AES) are well-known for their anti-inflammatory activities. However, their effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury have not been explored yet. Here, we asked whether combined pretreatment with CoQ10 and AES synergistically prevents LPS-induced lung injury. Fifty male rats were randomized into 5 groups: (1) control; (2) LPS-treated, rats received a single i.p. injection of LPS (8 mg/kg); (3) CoQ10-pretreated, (4) AES-pretreated, or (5) combined-pretreated; animals received CoQ10 (100 mg/kg), AES (5 mg/kg), or both orally for 7 days before LPS injection. Combined CoQ10 and AES pretreatment significantly reduced lung injury markers; 52.42% reduction in serum C-reactive protein (CRP), 53.69% in alkaline phosphatase (ALKP) and 60.26% in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities versus 44.58, 37.38, and 48.6% in CoQ10 and 33.81, 34.43, and 39.29% in AES-pretreated groups, respectively. Meanwhile, combination therapy significantly reduced interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expressions compared to monotherapy (p < 0.05). Additionally, combination therapy prevented LPS-induced histological and mitochondrial abnormalities greater than separate drugs. Western blotting indicated that combination therapy significantly suppressed nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors-3 (NLRP-3) inflammasome compared to separate drugs (p < 0.05). Further, combination therapy significantly decreased the expression of signaling cascades, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-p65, and extracellular-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) versus monotherapy (p < 0.05). Interestingly, combined pretreatment significantly downregulated high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) by 72.93%, and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) by -0.93-fold versus 61.92%, -0.83-fold in CoQ10 and 38.67%, -0.70-fold in AES pretreatment, respectively. Our results showed for the first time that the enhanced anti-inflammatory effect of combined CoQ10 and AES pretreatment prevented LPS-induced ALI via suppression of NLRP-3 inflammasome through regulation of HMGB1/TLR4 signaling pathway and mitochondrial stabilization.

Berberine and/or zinc protect against methotrexate-induced intestinal damage: Role of GSK-3β/NRF2 and JAK1/STAT-3 signaling pathways

AIM

The present study was undertaken to elucidate the potential protective mechanism of berberine (BBR) and/or zinc (Zn) against methotrexate (MTX)-induced intestinal injury.

METHODS

Five groups of rats were assigned; normal group (received vehicle), MTX group (20 mg/kg; i.p. single dose), and the other three groups received a single daily oral dose of BBR (50 mg/kg), Zn (5 mg/kg), and BBR plus Zn respectively, for 5 days before MTX and 5 days after.

RESULTS

Our results emphasized the toxic effect of MTX on rat's intestine as shown by disturbance of oxidant/antioxidant status, down-regulation of NRF2, SIRT1, FOXO-3, Akt, and mTOR expressions, along with up-regulation of GSK-3β, JAK1, and STAT-3 expressions. Besides, severe intestinal histopathological changes were also observed. On the contrary, BBR and/or Zn produced marked protection against MTX-induced intestinal toxicity via amelioration of oxidative stress, improving NRF2, SIRT1, FOXO-3, GSK-3β, Akt, mTOR, JAK1, and STAT-3 alterations. Moreover, our treatments significantly restored histopathological abnormalities. Interestingly, combination therapy of BBR plus Zn exhibited higher effectiveness than mono-therapy.

SIGNIFICANCE

BBR plus Zn could be used as a novel therapy for the treatment of MTX-induced intestinal damage through modulation of GSK-3β/NRF2, Akt/mTOR, JAK1/STAT-3, and SIRT1/FOXO-3 signaling pathways.

Impact of cytokine storm and systemic inflammation on liver impairment patients infected by SARS-CoV-2: Prospective therapeutic challenges

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a devastating worldwide pandemic infection caused by a severe acute respiratory syndrome namely coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that is associated with a high spreading and mortality rate. On the date this review was written, SARS-CoV-2 infected about 96 million people and killed about 2 million people. Several arguments disclosed the high mortality of COVID-19 due to acute respiratory distress syndrome or change in the amount of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor expression or cytokine storm strength production. In a similar pattern, hepatic impairment patients co-infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibited overexpression of ACE2 receptors and cytokine storm overwhelming, which worsens the hepatic impairment and increases the mortality rate. In this review, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on hepatic impairment conditions we overviewed. Besides, we focused on the recent studies that indicated cytokine storm as well as ACE2 as the main factors for high COVID-19 spreading and mortality while hinting at the potential therapeutic strategies.

Trans-ferulic acid ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular damage via suppression of TLR4, P38-MAPK, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways

Testicular damage has been described as a common side effect of cisplatin (CDDP), which limits its clinical uses. Since oxidative injury and inflammatory response are the most pathological impact, estimation of natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents like trans-ferulic acid (TFA) could protect against CDDP-induced testicular damage. In the current investigation, rats were assigned into four groups: normal, TFA (50 mg/kg/day, P.O), CDDP (10 mg/kg) as single intraperitoneal (I.P) injection at the end of the 5th day, and TFA+CDDP where TFA was administered 5 days before CDDP injection and 5 days after. Interestingly, TFA significantly restored testosterone levels and abrogated oxidative stress injury. Additionally, TFA effectively suppressed inflammatory cytokines. It also counteracted the inflammation via downregulation of TLR4 and IRF3, P38-MAPK, NF-κB-p65, JAK1, STAT3, ERK1, and ERK2. Besides, TFA can modulate AKT and p-AKT protein expressions. In parallel, TFA mitigated the histopathological aberration of the testis and prevented spermatogenesis disruption. On the other hand, TFA augmented the in vitro CDDP cytotoxicity on Caco-2 and MCF-7 cells. Interestingly, TFA enhanced the cytotoxic effect of CDDP via apoptosis induction in both the early and late stages of apoptosis. Collectively, TFA exhibited a potential protective effect against CDDP-induced testicular injury by inhibiting oxidative stress as well as TLR4/IRF3/INF-γ, P38-MAPK/NF-κB-p65/TNF-α, and JAK1/STAT-3/ERK1/2 inflammatory signaling pathways with enhancing its in vitro cytotoxic activity.

Regulation of IL-6/STAT-3/Wnt axis by nifuroxazide dampens colon ulcer in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis model: Novel mechanistic insight

AIM

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common intestinal problem characterized by the diffusion of colon inflammation and immunity dysregulation. Nifuroxazide, a potent STAT-3 inhibitor, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties. The present study aimed to elucidate a novel anti-colitis mechanism of nifuroxazide against the acetic acid-induced UC model.

METHODS

Rats were grouped into control (received vehicle), UC (2 ml of 5% acetic acid by intrarectal infusion), UC plus sulfasalazine (100 mg/kg/day, P.O.), UC plus nifuroxazide (25 mg/kg/day, P.O.), and UC plus nifuroxazide (50 mg/kg/day, P.O.) and lasted for 6 days.

RESULTS

The present study revealed that nifuroxazide significantly reduced UC measures, hematological changes, and histological alteration. In addition, treatment with nifuroxazide significantly down-regulated serum CRP as well as the colonic expressions of MPO, IL-6, TNF-α, TLR-4, NF-κB-p65, JAK1, STAT-3, DKK1 in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, our results showed that the colonic Wnt expression was up-regulated with nifuroxazide treatment. In a dose-dependent manner, nifuroxazide markedly alleviated acetic acid-induced cellular infiltration and improved ulcer healing by increasing intestinal epithelial cell regeneration.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results collectively indicate that nifuroxazide is an effective anti-colitis agent through regulation of colon inflammation and proliferation via modulation IL-6/STAT-3/Wnt signaling pathway.

Roflumilast protects from cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity in male rats and enhances its cytotoxicity in prostate cancer cell line. Role of NF-κB-p65, cAMP/PKA and Nrf2/HO-1, NQO1 signaling

Cisplatin (CIS)-induced testicular injury is a major obstacle in its application as antineoplastic agent. In this study, we investigated the protective effect and mechanism of roflumilast (ROF), a PDE4 inhibitor, against CIS-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Besides, the cytotoxic effect of CIS, with and without ROF, was evaluated on PC3 cell line. ROF reversed CIS-induced abnormalities in sperm characteristics, normalized serum testosterone level, and ameliorated CIS-induced alterations in testicular and epidydimal weights and restored normal testicular structure. Moreover, ROF increased intracellular cAMP level, PKA and HO-1 activities and Nrf2, NQO-1 and HO-1 gene expression, improved testicular oxidative stress parameters (TBARS, NO, GSH levels, and CAT activity) and inflammatory mediators (IL-1β and TNF-α, and NF-κβ p65gene expression) and reduced the proapoptotic proteins, caspase-3, Bax and increased Bcl-2. Lastly, in vitro analyses showed that ROF augmented the anticancer efficacy of CIS and enhanced the increase in gene expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 and the inhibition of gene expression of NF-κβ p65 induced by CIS and enhanced its apoptotic effect in PC3 cells. Conclusively, PDE4 inhibition with induction of Nrf2/HO-1, NQO-1 is a potential therapeutic approach to protect male reproductive system from the detrimental effects with augmenting, the antineoplastic effect of CIS.

Targeting KEAP1/Nrf2, AKT, and PPAR-γ signals as a potential protective mechanism of diosmin against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity

AIM

Gentamicin (GM) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic effectively used for severe/life-threatening infections. However, the clinical application of GM is limited by nephrotoxic side effects. Diosmin (DS) is a flavonoid with a wide range of bioactivities. However, its therapeutic potential in GM-induced nephrotoxicity remains unclear.

METHODS

Rats received GM (100 mg/kg, i.p.) for 7 days either separately or in combination with oral DS (50 mg/kg).

RESULTS

GM injection disrupted kidney function along with oxidant/antioxidant imbalance. Also, GM significantly decreased renal nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), glutamyl cysteine synthetase (GCLC), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase3 (SOD-3), protein kinase B (AKT), and p-AKT expressions along with Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) up-regulation. On the contrary, DS administration significantly attenuated GM-induced kidney dysfunction and restored kidney oxidant/antioxidant status. In addition, co-treatment with DS plus GM significantly enhanced Nrf2, GCLC, HO-1, SOD3, AKT, and p-AKT expressions along with KEAP1 down-regulation. Additionally, GM-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease in the expressions of renal peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) and this reduction was alleviated by DS treatment. Furthermore, histopathological findings demonstrated that DS significantly reduced the GM-induced histological abrasions. Besides, an in-silico study was conducted to confirm our biochemical results. Interestingly, in-silico results strongly supported our biochemical investigation by studying the binding affinity of DS to KEAP1, AKT, and PPAR-γ proteins.

SIGNIFICANCE

DS could be a promising protective agent against GM-induced nephrotoxicity through targeting of KEAP1/Nrf2/ARE, AKT, and PPAR-γ signaling pathways.

Rebamipide potentially mitigates methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity via inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation: A molecular and histochemical study

Methotrexate (MTX) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent; nevertheless, the nephrotoxicity associated with its use has limited its clinical use. Rebamipide (REB) is a gastro-protective agent with diverse promising biological activities. Here, we investigated the renoprotective effects of REB against MTX-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: the normal control group, the REB group (100 mg kg^-1 day^-1 , PO, for 12 days), the MTX group (which received a single injection of 20 mg/kg, ip), and the REB + MTX group (which received 100 mg kg^-1 day^-1 REB for 7 days before and 5 days after being injected with 20 mg/kg MTX). Interestingly, MTX triggered kidney injury, characterized by renal dysfunction along with histopathological alterations. Moreover, increased reactive oxygen species level and inflammatory response were detected in the kidney of MTX-treated rats. However, REB prevented MTX-induced oxidative kidney injury and boosted an antioxidant balance. Mechanistically, REB markedly activated the NRF-2 protein and upregulated the expression of both SIRT-1 and FOXO-3 genes. Additionally, REB administration strongly inhibited the inflammatory response by downregulating both NF-κB-p65 and TLR-4. Finally, the coadministration of REB and MTX activated the mTOR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Simultaneously, REB treatment attenuated the reduction in glomerular size, the widening of the capsular spaces, and the tubular cell damage due to MTX administration. Taken together, these results indicate the potential of REB as adjuvant therapy to prevent nephrotoxicity in patients receiving MTX treatment.

Nephroprotective effect of umbelliferone against cisplatin-induced kidney damage is mediated by regulation of NRF2, cytoglobin, SIRT1/FOXO-3, and NF- kB-p65 signaling pathways

Cisplatin (Cis) is one of the most potent and effective broad-spectrum antitumor drugs, but its use is limited due to nephrotoxicity. The current study investigated the renoprotective effect of umbelliferone (UMB) on Cis-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Renal injury was induced by a single injection of Cis (7 mg/kg, ip). Our results exhibited that the injection of Cis significantly disrupted renal function biomarkers as well as KIM-1 expression. The expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-kB-p65, and IKKβ were elevated along with downregulation of IkBα expression. Also, Cis disrupted cellular oxidant/antioxidant balance through the reduction of glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA) content. On the contrary, the levels of renal function biomarkers, cytokines, NF-kB-p65, IkBα, IKKβ, and oxidant/antioxidant status have been improved after UMB treatment. Mechanistically, rats administered Cis only exhibited a significant decrease in NRF2 and cytoglobin expressions as well as the CREB, SIRT1, FOXO-3, and PPAR-γ genes. Treatment with UMB significantly upregulated NRF2 and cytoglobin proteins, as well as effectively increased the expression of CREB, SIRT1, FOXO-3, PPAR-γ, and NRF2 genes. Histopathological findings strongly supported our biochemical results, as evidenced by attenuation of renal hemorrhage, cast diffusion, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Interestingly, UMB significantly enhanced Cis cytotoxicity in both HL-60 and HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner. Together, our results demonstrated that UMB can protect against Cis-induced nephrotoxicity in normal rats along with the enhancement of its in vitro antitumor activity. These findings suggested that UMB could be used as a potential adjuvant therapy in Cis chemotherapeutic protocols.

The Impact of Royal Jelly against Hepatic Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Hepatocyte Damage in Rats: The Role of Cytoglobin, Nrf-2/HO-1/COX-4, and P38-MAPK/NF-κB-p65/TNF-α Signaling Pathways

OBJECTIVE

The present study was conducted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism as well as the potential hepatoprotective effects of royal jelly (RJ) against hepatic ischemia/ reperfusion (IR) injury.

METHODS

Rats were assigned into four groups; sham (received vehicle), IR (30 minutes ischemia and 45 minutes reperfusion), sham pretreated with RJ (200 mg/kg P.O.), and IR pretreated with RJ (200 mg/kg P.O.). The experiment lasted for 28 days.

RESULTS

Hepatic IR significantly induced hepatic dysfunctions, as manifested by elevation of serum transaminases, ALP and LDH levels. Moreover, hepatic IR caused a significant up-regulation of P38-MAPK, NF-κB-p65, TNF-α and MDA levels along with marked down-regulation of Nrf-2, HO-1, COX-4, cytoglobin, IκBa, IL-10, GSH, GST and SOD levels. Additionally, marked histopathological changes were observed after hepatic IR injury. On the contrary, pretreatment with RJ significantly improved hepatic functions along with the alleviation of histopathological changes. Moreover, RJ restored oxidant/antioxidant balance as well as hepatic expressions of Nrf- 2, HO-1, COX-4, and cytoglobin. Simultaneously, RJ significantly mitigated the inflammatory response by down-regulation of P38-MAPK, NF-κB-p65, TNF-α expression.

CONCLUSION

The present results revealed that RJ has successfully protected the liver against hepatic IR injury through modulation of cytoglobin, Nrf-2/HO-1/COX-4, and P38-MAPK/NF-κB-p65/TNF- α signaling pathways.