Effect of dietary aspirin eugenol ester on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal inflammation, and cecal microbiota of broilers under high stocking density

This study was designed to examine the impact of aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) on the growth performance, serum antioxidant capacity, jejunal barrier function, and cecal microbiota of broilers raised under stressful high density (HD) stocking conditions compared with normal density broilers (ND). A total of 432 one-day-old AA+ male broilers were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal density (ND, 14 broilers /m2), high density (HD, 22 broilers /m2), ND + AEE, and HD + AEE. The results of the study revealed a significant decrease in the growth performance of broiler chickens as a result of HD stress (P < 0.05). The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in serum demonstrated a significant decrease (P < 0.05) at both 28 and 35 d. Conversely, the serum level of malondialdehyde (MDA) exhibited a significant increase (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation of AEE resulted in a significant elevation (P < 0.05) of serum GSH-PX, SOD and T-AOC activity at both 28 and 35 d. Moreover, exposure to HD stress resulted in a considerable reduction in the height of intestinal villi and mRNA expression of tight junction proteins in the jejunum, along with, a significant elevation in the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (P < 0.05). However, the administration of AEE reversed the adverse effects of HD-induced stress on villus height and suppressed the mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory genes, COX-2 and mPGES-1. Additionally, the exposure to HD stress resulted in a substantial reduction in the α-diversity of cecal microbiota and disruption in the equilibrium of intestinal microbial composition, with a notable decrease in the relative abundance of Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium (P < 0.05). In contrast, the addition of AEE to the feed resulted in a notable increase in the relative abundance of Phascolarctobacterium and enhanced microbial diversity (P < 0.05). The inclusion of AEE in the diet has been demonstrated to enhance intestinal integrity and growth performance of broilers by effectively mitigating disruptions in gut microbiota induced by HD stress.

Low dose aspirin prevents endothelial dysfunction in the aorta and foetal loss in pregnant mice infected with influenza A virus

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection in pregnancy resembles a preeclamptic phenotype characterised by vascular dysfunction and foetal growth retardation. Given that low dose aspirin (ASA) is safe in pregnancy and is used to prevent preeclampsia, we investigated whether ASA or NO-conjugated aspirin, NCX4016, resolve vascular inflammation and function to improve offspring outcomes following IAV infection in pregnant mice. Pregnant mice were intranasally infected with a mouse adapted IAV strain (Hkx31; 104 plaque forming units) and received daily treatments with either 200µg/kg ASA or NCX4016 via oral gavage. Mice were then culled and the maternal lungs and aortas collected for qPCR analysis, and wire myography was performed on aortic rings to assess endothelial and vascular smooth muscle functionality. Pup and placentas were weighed and pup growth rates and survival assessed. IAV infected mice had an impaired endothelial dependent relaxation response to ACh in the aorta, which was prevented by ASA and NCX4016 treatment. ASA and NCX4016 treatment prevented IAV dissemination and inflammation of the aorta as well as improving the pup placental ratios in utero, survival and growth rates at post-natal day 5. Low dose ASA is safe to use during pregnancy for preeclampsia and this study demonstrates that ASA may prove a promising treatment for averting the significant vascular complications associated with influenza infection during pregnancy.

An Aspirin-Free Versus Dual Antiplatelet Strategy for Coronary Stenting: STOPDAPT-3 Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Bleeding rates on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) within 1 month after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remain high in clinical practice, particularly in patients with acute coronary syndrome or high bleeding risk. Aspirin-free strategy might result in lower bleeding early after PCI without increasing cardiovascular events, but its efficacy and safety have not yet been proven in randomized trials.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 6002 patients with acute coronary syndrome or high bleeding risk just before PCI either to prasugrel (3.75 mg/day) monotherapy or to DAPT with aspirin (81-100 mg/day) and prasugrel (3.75 mg/day) after loading of 20 mg of prasugrel in both groups. The coprimary end points were major bleeding (Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 3 or 5) for superiority and cardiovascular events (a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, definite stent thrombosis, or ischemic stroke) for noninferiority with a relative 50% margin.

RESULTS

The full analysis set population consisted of 5966 patients (no-aspirin group, 2984 patients; DAPT group, 2982 patients; age, 71.6±11.7 years; men, 76.6%; acute coronary syndrome, 75.0%). Within 7 days before randomization, aspirin alone, aspirin with P2Y12 inhibitor, oral anticoagulants, and intravenous heparin infusion were given in 21.3%, 6.4%, 8.9%, and 24.5%, respectively. Adherence to the protocol-specified antiplatelet therapy was 88% in both groups at 1 month. At 1 month, the no-aspirin group was not superior to the DAPT group for the coprimary bleeding end point (4.47% and 4.71%; hazard ratio, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.75-1.20]; Psuperiority=0.66). The no-aspirin group was noninferior to the DAPT group for the coprimary cardiovascular end point (4.12% and 3.69%; hazard ratio, 1.12 [95% CI, 0.87-1.45]; Pnoninferiority=0.01). There was no difference in net adverse clinical outcomes and each component of coprimary cardiovascular end point. There was an excess of any unplanned coronary revascularization (1.05% and 0.57%; hazard ratio, 1.83 [95%CI, 1.01-3.30]) and subacute definite or probable stent thrombosis (0.58% and 0.17%; hazard ratio, 3.40 [95% CI, 1.26-9.23]) in the no-aspirin group compared with the DAPT group.

CONCLUSIONS

The aspirin-free strategy using low-dose prasugrel compared with the DAPT strategy failed to attest superiority for major bleeding within 1 month after PCI but was noninferior for cardiovascular events within 1 month after PCI. However, the aspirin-free strategy was associated with a signal suggesting an excess of coronary events.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04609111.

Multi-Omics Approaches for Liver Reveal the Thromboprophylaxis Mechanism of Aspirin Eugenol Ester in Rat Thrombosis Model

Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) is a novel medicinal compound synthesized by esterifying aspirin with eugenol using the pro-drug principle. Pharmacological and pharmacodynamic experiments showed that AEE had excellent thromboprophylaxis and inhibition of platelet aggregation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of AEE on the liver of thrombosed rats to reveal its mechanism of thromboprophylaxis. Therefore, a multi-omics approach was used to analyze the liver. Transcriptome results showed 132 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the AEE group compared to the model group. Proteome results showed that 159 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in the AEE group compared to the model group. Six proteins including fibrinogen alpha chain (Fga), fibrinogen gamma chain (Fgg), fibrinogen beta chain (Fgb), orosomucoid 1 (Orm1), hemopexin (Hpx), and kininogen-2 (Kng2) were selected for parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) analysis. The results showed that the expression of all six proteins was upregulated in the model group compared with the control group. In turn, AEE reversed the upregulation trend of these proteins to some degree. Metabolome results showed that 17 metabolites were upregulated and 38 were downregulated in the model group compared to the control group. AEE could reverse the expression of these metabolites to some degree and make them back to normal levels. The metabolites were mainly involved in metabolic pathways, including linoleic acid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Comprehensive analyses showed that AEE could prevent thrombosis by inhibiting platelet activation, decreasing inflammation, and regulating amino acid and energy metabolism. In conclusion, AEE can have a positive effect on thrombosis-related diseases.

Molecular Mechanisms of Cytotoxicty of NCX4040, the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory NO-Donor, in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells

NCX4040, the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory-NO donor, is cytotoxic to several human tumors, including ovarian tumor cells. We have found that NCX4040 is also cytotoxic against both OVCAR-8 and its adriamycin resistant (NCI/ADR-RES) tumor cell lines. Here, we have examined mechanism(s) for the cytotoxicity of NCX4040 in OVCAR-8 and NCI/ADR-RES cell lines. We found that NCX4040 induced significant apoptosis in both cell lines. Furthermore, NCX4040 treatment caused significant depletion of cellular glutathione, causing oxidative stress due to the formation of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). Significantly more ROS/RNS were detected in OVCAR-8 cells than in NCI/ADR-RES cells which may have resulted from increased activities of SOD, glutathione peroxidase and transferases expressed in NCI/ADR-RES cells. NCX4040 treatment resulted in the formation of double-strand DNA breaks in both cells; however, more of these DNA breaks were detected in OVCAR-8 cells. RT-PCR studies indicated that NCX4040-induced DNA damage was not repaired as efficiently in NCI/ADR-RES cells as in OVCAR-8 cells which may lead to a differential cell death. Pretreatment of OVCAR-8 cells with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) significantly decreased cytotoxicity of NCX4040 in OVCAR-8 cells; however, NAC had no effects on NCX4040 cytotoxicity in NCI/ADR-RES cells. In contrast, FeTPPS, a peroxynitrite scavenger, completely blocked NCX4040-induced cell death in both cells, suggesting that NCX4040-induced cell death could be mediated by peroxynitrite formed from NCX4040 following cellular metabolism.

Validation of the EDAN SA-10 ambulatory blood pressure monitor in general population according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation/European Society of Hypertension/International Organization for Standardization Universal Standard

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the accuracy of the EDAN SA-10 oscillometric upper-arm professional office ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitor in general population according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)/European Society of Hypertension (ESH)/International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018).

METHODS

Subjects were recruited according to the AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard using the same arm sequential BP measurement method. Four cuffs of the test device were used for arm circumference 16-21.5 cm (extra small), 20.5-28 cm (small), 27-35 cm (medium), and 34-43 cm (large).

RESULTS

A total of 105 subjects were recruited, and 97 subjects were included in the final analysis. For validation criterion 1, the mean ± SD of the differences between the test device and reference BP readings was -0.59 ± 4.04/-1.79 ± 4.39 mmHg (systolic/diastolic). For criterion 2, the SD of the averaged BP differences between the test device and reference BP per subject was 3.10/3.80 mmHg (systolic/diastolic).

CONCLUSION

The EDAN SA-10 upper-arm ambulatory BP monitor has passed all the requirements of the AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018) in general population and can be recommended for clinical use.

Aspirin eugenol ester alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats while stabilizing serum metabolites levels

Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) was a novel drug compound with aspirin and eugenol esterified. AEE had various pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-oxidative stress and so on. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of AEE on the acute lung injury (ALI) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. In vitro experiments evaluated the protective effect of AEE on the LPS-induced A549 cells. The tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured in the cell supernatant. The Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8): control group, model group (LPS group), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 54 mg·kg−1), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 108 mg·kg−1), LPS + AEE group (AEE, 216 mg·kg−1). The lung wet-to-dry weight (W/D) ratio and immune organ index were calculated. WBCs were counted in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and total protein concentration was measured. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining of lung tissue was performed. Glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), macrophage mobility inhibitory factor (MIF), TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β activity were measured. The metabolomic analysis of rat serum was performed by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. From the results, compared with LPS group, AEE improved histopathological changes, reduced MDA, CRP, MPO, MDA, and MIF production, decreased WBC count and total protein content in BALF, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, immune organ index and lung wet-dry weight (W/D), increased antioxidant enzyme activity, in a dose-dependent manner. The results of serum metabolomic analysis showed that the LPS-induced ALI caused metabolic disorders and oxidative stress in rats, while AEE could ameliorate it to some extent. Therefore, AEE could alleviate LPS-induced ALI in rats by regulating abnormal inflammatory responses, slowing down oxidative stress, and modulating energy metabolism.

Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety evaluation of 5,5'-methylenebis(2-acetoxybenzoic acid) in dogs following intravenous administration

Complement-mediated intravascular hemolysis occurs in canine immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA). Complement inhibitors might enhance treatment of this disease. Dimers of acetylsalicylic acid such as 5,5'-methylenebis(2-acetoxybenzoic acid) (DAS) have been reported to inhibit complement. This study aimed to characterize the pharmacokinetics and safety profile of a single 3 mg/kg IV dose of DAS in 6 healthy mixed-breed dogs. Serum concentrations of DAS and its primary metabolites were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry at baseline and at 5, 10 and 30 min, and 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 18 and 24 h post-administration. Additional blood samples were collected 7 and 14 days after drug administration. Complete blood counts, serum chemistry panels, C-reactive protein measurements, coagulation testing and cytokine analyses were used for safety monitoring. Following IV administration of 3 mg/kg DAS, the estimated mean maximum plasma concentration was 54,709 ng/mL. Pharmacokinetic modeling suggested that DAS was eliminated with a half-life value of 8.1 h, equivalent to a clearance of 6.93 L/hr kg and a volume of distribution of 56 mL/kg. Plasma concentrations of the metabolites were measured rapidly (within 15-60 min for M1 and M2 respectively). Overall, the relative exposure to M1 and M2 suggest significant biotransformation of DAS occurred, but DAS was the most abundant circulating species. No adverse clinical reactions were noted following DAS administration and safety studies suggested DAS caused no inflammatory response or coagulation disturbance. Further clinical evaluation of DAS is warranted.

A retrospective study on long-term efficacy of intranasal lysine-aspirin in controlling NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease

Purpose

Aspirin treatment after desensitization (ATAD) represents an effective therapeutic option suitable for NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) patients with recalcitrant disease. Intranasal administration of lysine-aspirin (LAS) has been suggested as a safer and faster route than oral ATAD but evidence for its use is less strong. We investigated nasal LAS therapy long-term efficacy based on objective outcomes, smell function, polyp recurrence and need for surgery or rescue therapy. Clinical biomarkers predicting response to intranasal LAS, long-term side effects and consequences of discontinuing treatment have been evaluated.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a database of 60 N-ERD patients seen between 2012 and 2020 was performed in March 2021. They were followed up at 3-months, 1-, 2- and 3-years with upper and lower airway functions assessed at each follow-up.

Results

Higher nasal airflow and smell scores were found at each follow-up in patients taking LAS (p < 0.001 and p = 0.048 respectively). No influence of LAS on pulmonary function measurements was observed. Patient on intranasal LAS showed a lower rate of revision sinus surgery when compared to those who discontinued the treatment (p < 0.001). None of the variables studied was found to influence LAS treatment response.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the clinical effectiveness of long-term intranasal LAS in the management of N-ERD in terms of improved nasal airflow and olfaction and a reduced need for revision sinus surgery. Intranasal LAS is safe, being associated with a lower rate of side effects when compared to oral ATAD. However, discontinuation of the treatment at any stage is associated with a loss of clinical benefit.

Aspirin eugenol ester ameliorates paraquat-induced oxidative damage through ROS/p38-MAPK-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

Paraquat (PQ) is an effective and commercially important herbicide that is widely used worldwide. However, PQ is highly toxic and can cause various complications and acute organ damage. Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) is a potential new compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant stress pharmacological activity. The present study was to reveal the therapeutic effects and the protective effect of AEE against PQ-induced acute lung injury (ALI) with the help of PQ-induced oxidative damage in A549 cells and PQ-induced lung injury in rats. AEE might have no significant therapeutic effect on PQ-induced lung injury in rats. However, AEE had a significant protective effect on PQ-induced lung injury in rats. AEE pretreatment significantly reduced the stimulatory effect of PQ on malondialdehyde (MDA), the inhibitory effect of PQ on catalase (CAT) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, the ratio of GSH/GSSH, the activity of caspase-3 and the overexpression of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation in vivo. In vitro, A549 cells were treated with 250 μM PQ for 24 h. Incubation of A549 cells with PQ led to apoptosis, and increased the level of superoxide anions, reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde and the activity of caspase-3 and up-regulation of phosphorylated p38-MAPK, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and the activity of SOD. However, after 24 h on AEE pretreatment of A549 cells, the above-mentioned adverse reactions caused by PQ were significantly alleviated. In addition, AEE pretreatment reduced p38-MAPK phosphorylation in PQ-treated A549 cells. SB203580, the specific p38-MAPK inhibitor, and p38-MAPK shRNA attenuated the activation of the p38-MAPK signaling pathway. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) reduced the level of phosphorylated p38-MAPK and the production of intracellular ROS and inhibited apoptosis. The results showed that AEE may inhibit PQ-induced cell damage through ROS/p38-MAPK-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.

Resveratrol and Resveratrol-Aspirin Hybrid Compounds as Potent Intestinal Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Tumor Drugs

Resveratrol (3,4,5-Trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a naturally occurring polyphenol that exhibits beneficial pleiotropic health effects. It is one of the most promising natural molecules in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases and autoimmune disorders. One of the key limitations in the clinical use of resveratrol is its extensive metabolic processing to its glucuronides and sulfates. It has been estimated that around 75% of this polyphenol is excreted via feces and urine. To possibly alleviate the extensive metabolic processing and improve bioavailability, we have added segments of acetylsalicylic acid to resveratrol in an attempt to maintain the functional properties of both. We initially characterized resveratrol-aspirin derivatives as products that can inhibit cytochrome P450 Family 1 Subfamily A Member 1 (CYP1A1) activity, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity, and cyclooxygenase (COX) activity. In this study, we provide a detailed analysis of how resveratrol and its aspirin derivatives can inhibit nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) activation, cytokine production, the growth rate of cancer cells, and in vivo alleviate intestinal inflammation and tumor growth. We identified resveratrol derivatives C3 and C11 as closely preserving resveratrol bioactivities of growth inhibition of cancer cells, inhibition of NFκB activation, activation of sirtuin, and 5’ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity. We speculate that the aspirin derivatives of resveratrol would be more metabolically stable, resulting in increased efficacy for treating immune disorders and as an anti-cancer agent.

Exploring the Potential of Nitric Oxide and Hydrogen Sulfide (NOSH)-Releasing Synthetic Compounds as Novel Priming Agents against Drought Stress in Medicago sativa Plants

Land plants are continuously exposed to multiple abiotic stress factors like drought, heat, and salinity. Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) are two well-examined signaling molecules that act as priming agents, regulating the response of plants to stressful conditions. Several chemical donors exist that provide plants with NO and H₂S separately. NOSH is a remarkable novel donor as it can donate NO and H₂S simultaneously to plants, while NOSH-aspirin additionally provides the pharmaceutical molecule acetylsalicylic acid. The current study aimed to investigate the potential synergistic effect of these molecules in drought-stressed Medicago sativa L. plants by following a pharmacological approach. Plants were initially pre-treated with both donors (NOSH and NOSH-aspirin) via foliar spraying, and were then subsequently exposed to a moderate water deficit while NO and H₂S inhibitors (cPTIO and HA, respectively) were also employed. Phenotypic and physiological data showed that pre-treatment with NOSH synthetic compounds induced acclimation to subsequent drought stress and improved the recovery following rewatering. This was accompanied by modified reactive-oxygen and nitrogen-species signaling and metabolism, as well as attenuation of cellular damage, as evidenced by altered lipid peroxidation and proline accumulation levels. Furthermore, real-time RT-qPCR analysis revealed the differential regulation of multiple defense-related transcripts, including antioxidant enzymes. Overall, the present study proposed a novel role for NOSH compounds as efficient plant priming agents against environmental constraints through the coordinated regulation of multiple defense components, thus opening new horizons in the field of chemical priming research toward the use of target-selected compounds for stress tolerance enhancement.

Nitro aspirin (NCX4040) induces apoptosis in PC3 metastatic prostate cancer cells via hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-mediated oxidative stress

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) have shown promise as anticancer agents by inducing cell death apart from their antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombogenic effects. In our current study, we investigated the oxidative stress mediated cell death mechanism of a NSAID derivative NCX4040 (a nitric oxide (NO) releasing form of aspirin) in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) PC3 cell line. Our data revealed that NCX4040 is more potent than its parent compound aspirin or NO releasing compound DETA NONOate. NCX4040 significantly induced hydrogen peroxide formation with ensuing oxidative stress and mitochondrial depolarization resulting in lipid peroxidation, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of colony growth and induction of apoptosis in PC3 cells. Moreover, NCX4040 inhibited migration potential of PC3 cells by depolymerizing F-actin and promoting anoikis. Interestingly, elevated levels of NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1 and 2 were observed upon NCX4040 treatment. However, down regulation of anti-apoptotic markers B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and anti-oxidant thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1) expression were observed. In addition, NCX4040 down regulated cyclin D1 expression in PC3 cells further supporting the anticancer effect of NCX4040. Western blot analysis revealed that significant down regulation of key anti-apoptotic markers such as cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein-1 (cIAP1), X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), survivin, and Cellular-Myc (c-Myc). On the other hand, NCX4040-treated cells showed upregulation of phosho histone H2AX (pH2AX), cleaved caspase3 and cleaved Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase 1 (PARP1). Taken together, our data demonstrate that NCX4040 treatment enhances free radical formation which in turn induces oxidative stress leading to mitochondrial mediated cell death in metastatic PC3 cells.

Aspirin Derivative 5-(Bis(3-methylbut-2-enyl)amino)-2-hydroxybenzoic Acid Improves Thermotolerance via Stress Response Proteins in Caenorhabditis elegans

Aging is a major risk factor for many prevalent diseases. Pharmacological intervention to improve the health span and extend the lifespan could be a preventive elixir for aging and age-related diseases. The non-steroid anti-inflammation medicine aspirin was reported to delay aging in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and mice. We are wondering if the analogues of aspirin could also present antiaging activity. Here, we synthesized several aspirin derivatives and investigated their thermotolerance and antiaging effect in C. elegans. One of the compounds, 5-(bis(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)amino)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid, moderately increased the survival of C. elegans under heat stress, but could not extend the lifespan under optimum conditions. This compound could increase the mRNA level of stress response gene gst-4, and the mRNA and protein expression level of heat shock protein hsp-16.2 under heat stress. The failure of activating the transcription factor DAF-16 might explain why this compound could not act as aspirin to extend the lifespan of C. elegans. Our results would help further the investigation of the pharmacological activity of aspirin analogues and the relationship between structures and activity.

Nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel versus aspirin plus clopidogrel against platelet thromboembolism and intimal thickening in mice

Clopidogrel plus aspirin is the treatment of choice for patients undergoing percutaneous, coronary interventions with stenting, but it does not prevent restenosis. NCX-4016, a nitric oxide-releasing aspirin (nitroaspirin), exerts a wider range of antiplatelet actions compared to aspirin, superior antithrombotic activity and reduces restenosis after arterial injury in animals. The aim of the present study was to compare the combination of nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel with aspirin plus clopidogrel in a model of platelet pulmonary thromboembolism, bleeding and intimal thickening in mice. Drugs were administered orally for 5 days; the antithrombotic effects were evaluated against collagen plus epinephrine-induced pulmonary thromboembolism, the haemorrhagic effects by tail transection bleeding time and the effects on neointima proliferation by histomorphology of photochemically injured femoral arteries. Lung platelet emboli were reduced significantly and more effectively by nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel (-56%, p< 0.05 vs control) than by aspirin plus clopidogrel (-26%, p< 0.05 vs control). Ex vivo platelet aggregation was inhibited maximally by nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel. Aspirin plus clopidogrel strikingly prolonged the bleeding time while nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel induced a lesser prolongation. Nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel significantly reduced intimal thickening of the femoral artery while aspirin plus clopidogrel was ineffective. Nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel is more effective and less prohaemorrhagic than aspirin plus clopidogrel in mice; provided these data are confirmed in other animal models, nitroaspirin plus clopidogrel may represent a new regimen to be tested in patients undergoing coronary revascularization procedures.

Changes in Somatostatin-Like Immunoreactivity in the Sympathetic Neurons Projecting to the Prepyloric Area of the Porcine Stomach Induced by Selected Pathological Conditions

The aim of the present study was to define changes in the expression of somatostatin (SOM) in the sympathetic perikarya innervating the porcine stomach prepyloric area during acetylsalicylic-acid-induced gastritis (ASA) and experimentally induced hyperacidity (HCL) and following partial stomach resection (RES). On day 1, the stomachs were injected with neuronal retrograde tracer Fast Blue (FB). Animals in the ASA group were given acetylsalicylic acid orally for 21 days. On the 22nd day after FB injection, partial stomach resection was performed in RES animals. On day 23, HCL animals were intragastrically given 5 ml/kg of body weight of a 0.25 M aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid. On day 28, all pigs were euthanized. Then, 14-μm thick cryostat sections of the coeliac-superior mesenteric ganglion (CSMG) complexes were processed for routine double-labelling immunofluorescence. All pathological conditions studied resulted in upregulation of SOM-like (SOM-LI) immunoreactivity (from 14.97 ± 1.57% in control group to 33.72 ± 4.39% in the ASA group, to 39.02 ± 3.65% in the RES group, and to 29.63 ± 0.85% in the HCL group). The present studies showed that altered expression of SOM occurs in sympathetic neurons supplying the prepyloric area of the porcine stomach during adaptation to various pathological insults.

Aspalatone Prevents VEGF-Induced Lipid Peroxidation, Migration, Tube Formation, and Dysfunction of Human Aortic Endothelial Cells

Although aspalatone (acetylsalicylic acid maltol ester) is recognized as an antithrombotic agent with antioxidative and antiplatelet potential; its efficacy in preventing endothelial dysfunction is not known. In this study, we examined the antiangiogenic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory effect of aspalatone in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). Specifically, the effect of aspalatone on VEGF-induced HAECs growth, migration, tube formation, and levels of lipid peroxidation-derived malondialdehyde (MDA) was examined. Our results indicate that the treatment of HAECs with aspalatone decreased VEGF-induced cell migration, tube formation, and levels of MDA. Aspalatone also inhibited VEGF-induced decrease in the expression of eNOS and increase in the expression of iNOS, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1. Aspalatone also prevented the VEGF-induced adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells. Furthermore, aspalatone also prevented VEGF-induced release of inflammatory markers such as Angiopoietin-2, Leptin, EGF, G-CSF, HB-EGF, and HGF in HAECs. Thus, our results suggest that aspalatone could be used to prevent endothelial dysfunction, an important process in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.

Abnormal Habituation of ‘nociceptive’ Blink Reflex in Migraine-Evidence for Increased Excitability of Trigeminal Nociception

We studied the habituation of the ‘nociceptive’ blink reflex (nBR) in 15 healthy subjects and 17 migraine patients interictally as well as during unilateral migraine headache within six hours of onset and after treatment. In healthy volunteers the mean regression coefficient (MRC) was – 3.9 following right sided and – 4.9 left sided stimulation. This equals an amplitude loss of 19.5% (5 X −3.9) and 24.5% (5 X −4.9), respectively, across five consecutive sweeps. An augmentation of nBR responses was found in migraine patients interictally: MRC = 3.3 following stimulation of the headache side (HA) and MRC = 4.0 of the non-headache side (non-HA). The differences were statistically significant (ANOVA: d.f. = 1, F = 25.8, P < 0.001). During the migraine attack MRCs were negative both before (−5.0, HA and – 4.0, non-HA) and after treatment (−2.6, HA and −1.9 non-HA) and significantly differed from those outside the migraine attack (ANOVA: d.f. = 2, F = 12.4, P < 0.001). The demonstrated lack of habituation of the nBR responses indicates an abnormal trigeminal nociceptive processing in migraine patients outside the migraine attack.

Nitroglycerin-Induced nNOS Increase in Rat Trigeminal Nucleus Caudalis is Inhibited by Systemic Administration of Lysine Acetylsalicylate but not of Sumatriptan

Systemic administration of nitroglycerin (NTG), a nitric oxide (NO) donor, in migraineurs triggers after several hours an attack of which the precise mechanisms are unknown. We found previously in rats that nitroglycerin (10 mg/kg s.c.) is able to increase significantly after 4 h the number of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-immunoreactive neurones in the cervical part of trigeminal nucleus caudalis. In the present experiments, we demonstrate that the 5-HT1B/D agonist sumatriptan (0.6 mg/kg s.c.) does not alter this phenomenon when given before NTG. By contrast, pretreatment with lysine acetylsalicylate (50 mg/kg i.m.) attenuates the NTG-induced nNOS expression in the superficial laminae of trigeminal nucleus caudalis. These findings suggest that effect of NTG on nNOS at a high dosage may involve the cycloxygenase pathway and that activation of the peripheral 5-HT1B/D receptors is not able to modify this effect. These data could help to better understand the role of NO in the pathogenesis of headaches and the action of antimigraine drugs.

[Pharmacological therapy of age-related macular degeneration based on etiopathogenesis]

It is of great therapeutic significance that disordered function of the vascular endothelium which supply the affected ocular structures plays a major role in the pathogenesis and development of age-related macular degeneration. Chronic inflammation is closely linked to diseases associated with endothelial dysfunction, and age-related macular degeneration is accompanied by a general inflammatory response. According to current concept, age-related macular degeneration is a local manifestation of systemic vascular disease. This recognition could have therapeutic implications because restoration of endothelial dysfunction can restabilize the condition of chronic vascular disease including age-related macular degeneration as well. Restoration of endothelial dysfunction by pharmaacological or non pharmacological interventions may prevent the development or improve endothelial dysfunction, which result in prevention or improvement of age related macular degeneration as well. Medicines including inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system (converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin-receptor blockers and renin inhibitors), statins, acetylsalicylic acid, trimetazidin, third generation beta-blockers, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists, folate, vitamin D, melatonin, advanced glycation end-product crosslink breaker alagebrium, endothelin-receptor antagonist bosentan, coenzyme Q10; "causal" antioxidant vitamins, N-acetyl-cysteine, resveratrol, L-arginine, serotonin receptor agonists, tumor necrosis factor-alpha blockers, specific inhibitor of the complement alternative pathway, curcumin and doxycyclin all have beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction. Restoration of endothelial dysfunction can restabilize chronic vascular disease including age-related macular degeneration as well. Considering that the human vascular system is consubstantial, medicines listed above should be given to patients (1) who have no macular degeneration but have risk factors for the disease and are older than 50 years; (2) who have been diagnosed with unilateral age-related macular degeneration in order to prevent damage of the contralateral eye; (3) who have bilateral age-related macular degeneration in order to avert deterioration and in the hope of a potential improvement. However, randomised prospective clinical trials are still needed to elucidate the potential role of these drug treatments in the prevention and treatment of age-related macular degeneration.

New formulation of old aspirin for better delivery

For better use of cyclooxygenase dependent anti-inflammatory properties and mitochondrial activities of aspirin, new hydrophobic analogues of aspirin were developed and successfully encapsulated in polymeric nanoparticles (NPs). In vivo anti-inflammatory effects of these NPs using a mouse model demonstrated unique properties of an optimized aspirin analogue to inhibit production of pro-inflammatory and enrichment of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Human GAPDH Is a Target of Aspirin's Primary Metabolite Salicylic Acid and Its Derivatives

The plant hormone salicylic acid (SA) controls several physiological processes and is a key regulator of multiple levels of plant immunity. To decipher the mechanisms through which SA’s multiple physiological effects are mediated, particularly in immunity, two high-throughput screens were developed to identify SA-binding proteins (SABPs). Glyceraldehyde 3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (GAPDH) from plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) was identified in these screens. Similar screens and subsequent analyses using SA analogs, in conjunction with either a photoaffinity labeling technique or surface plasmon resonance-based technology, established that human GAPDH (HsGAPDH) also binds SA. In addition to its central role in glycolysis, HsGAPDH participates in several pathological processes, including viral replication and neuronal cell death. The anti-Parkinson’s drug deprenyl has been shown to suppress nuclear translocation of HsGAPDH, an early step in cell death and the resulting cell death induced by the DNA alkylating agent N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine. Here, we demonstrate that SA, which is the primary metabolite of aspirin (acetyl SA) and is likely responsible for many of its pharmacological effects, also suppresses nuclear translocation of HsGAPDH and cell death. Analysis of two synthetic SA derivatives and two classes of compounds from the Chinese medicinal herb Glycyrrhiza foetida (licorice), glycyrrhizin and the SA-derivatives amorfrutins, revealed that they not only appear to bind HsGAPDH more tightly than SA, but also exhibit a greater ability to suppress translocation of HsGAPDH to the nucleus and cell death.

Superiority of zinc complex of acetylsalicylic acid to acetylsalicylic acid in preventing postischemic myocardial dysfunction

The pathophysiology of ischemic myocardial injury involves cellular events, reactive oxygen species, and an inflammatory reaction cascade. The zinc complex of acetylsalicylic acid (Zn(ASA)2) has been found to possess higher anti-inflammatory and lower ulcerogenic activities than acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Herein, we studied the effects of both ASA and Zn(ASA)2 against acute myocardial ischemia. Rats were pretreated with ASA (75 mg/kg) or Zn(ASA)2 (100 mg/kg) orally for five consecutive days. Isoproterenol (85 mg/kg, subcutaneously [s.c.]) was applied to produce myocardial infarction. After 17-22 h, animals were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [i.p.]) and both electrical and mechanical parameters of cardiac function were evaluated in vivo. Myocardial histological and gene expression analyses were performed. In isoproterenol-treated rats, Zn(ASA)2 treatment normalized significantly impaired left-ventricular contractility index (Emax 2.6 ± 0.7 mmHg/µL vs. 4.6 ± 0.5 mmHg/µL, P < 0.05), increased stroke volume (30 ± 3 µL vs. 50 ± 6 µL, P < 0.05), decreased systemic vascular resistance (7.2 ± 0.7 mmHg/min/mL vs. 4.2 ± 0.5 mmHg/min/mL, P < 0.05) and reduced inflammatory infiltrate into the myocardial tissues. ECG revealed a restoration of elevated ST-segment (0.21 ± 0.03 mV vs. 0.09 ± 0.02 mV, P < 0.05) and prolonged QT-interval (79.2 ± 3.2 ms vs. 69.5 ± 2.5 ms, P < 0.05) by Zn(ASA)2. ASA treatment did not result in an improvement of these parameters. Additionally, Zn(ASA)2 significantly increased the mRNA-expression of superoxide dismutase 1 (+73 ± 15%), glutathione peroxidase 4 (+44 ± 12%), and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 (+102 ± 22%). In conclusion, our data demonstrate that oral administration of zinc and ASA in the form of bis(aspirinato)zinc(II) complex is superior to ASA in preventing electrical, mechanical, and histological changes after acute myocardial ischemia. The induction of antioxidant enzymes and the anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-β1 may play a pivotal role in the mechanism of action of Zn(ASA)2.

Preventive Effect of Aspirin Eugenol Ester on Thrombosis in κ-Carrageenan-Induced Rat Tail Thrombosis Model

Based on the prodrug principle, aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) was synthesized, which can reduce the side effects of aspirin and eugenol. As a good candidate for new antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory medicine, it is essential to evaluate its preventive effect on thrombosis. Preventive effect of AEE was investigated in κ-carrageenan-induced rat tail thrombosis model. AEE suspension liquids were prepared in 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na). AEE was administrated at the dosage of 18, 36 and 72 mg/kg. Aspirin (20 mg/kg), eugenol (18 mg/kg) and 0.5% CMC-Na (30 mg/kg) were used as control drug. In order to compare the effects between AEE and its precursor, integration of aspirin and eugenol group (molar ratio 1:1) was also designed in the experiment. After drugs were administrated intragastrically for seven days, each rat was injected intraperitoneally with 20 mg/kg BW κ-carrageen dissolved in physiological saline to induce thrombosis. The length of tail-thrombosis was measured at 24 and 48 hours. The blank group just was given physiological saline for seven days without κ-carrageenan administrated. The results indicated that AEE significantly not only reduced the average length of thrombus, PT values and FIB concentration, but also reduced the red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT) and platelet (PLT). The effects of AEE on platelet aggregation and anticoagulant in vitro showed that AEE could inhibit adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation as dose-dependence but no notable effect on blood clotting. From these results, it was concluded that AEE possessed positive effect on thrombosis prevention in vivo through the reduction of FIB, PLT, inhibition of platelet aggregation and the change of TT and PT values.