Diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress-A concise review

Beneficial Effects of Ursodeoxycholic Acid on Metabolic Parameters and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

Background

Oxidative stress and inflammation are closely related pathophysiological processes, both occurring in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to the standard treatment of T2DM, a potential strategy has been focused on the use of bile acids (BAs) as an additional treatment. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), as the first BA used in humans, improves glucose and lipid metabolism and attenuates oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects of UDCA in patients with T2DM.

Methods

This prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study included 60 patients with T2DM, randomly allocated to receive UDCA or placebo. Subjects were treated with 500 mg tablets of UDCA or placebo administered three times per day (total dose of 1500 mg/day) for eight weeks. Two study visits, at the beginning (F0) and at the end (F1) of the study, included the interview, anthropometric and clinical measurements, and biochemical analyses.

Results

UDCA treatment showed a significant reduction in body mass index (p = 0.024) and in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.033), compared to placebo. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in waist circumference in the UDCA group before and after treatment (p < 0.05). Although no statistical significance was observed at the two-month follow-up assessment, an average decrease in glucose levels in the UDCA group was observed. After two months of the intervention period, a significant decrease in the activity of liver enzymes was noticed. Furthermore, a significant reduction in prooxidative parameters (TBARS, NO2-, H2O2) and significant elevation in antioxidative parameters such as SOD and GSH were found (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The eight-week UDCA administration showed beneficial effects on metabolic and oxidative stress parameters in patients with T2DM. Thus, UDCA could attenuate the progression and complications of diabetes and should be considered as an adjuvant to other diabetes treatment modalities. This trial is registered with NCT05416580.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera (L.)) Water Improves Glucose Uptake with Concomitant Modulation of Antioxidant and Purinergic Activities in Isolated Rat Psoas Muscles

The present study investigated the effect of coconut water on glucose uptake and utilization, and metabolic activities linked to hyperglycemia in isolated rat psoas muscles. Coconut water was subjected to in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic assays, which cover 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities. Psoas muscles were isolated from male Sprague Dawley rats and incubated with coconut water in the presence of glucose. Control consisted of muscles incubated with glucose only, while normal control consisted of muscles not incubated in coconut water and/or glucose. The standard antidiabetic drug was metformin. Incubation with coconut water led to a significant increase in muscle glucose uptake, with concomitant exacerbation of glutathione level, and SOD and catalase activities, while suppressing malondialdehyde level, and ATPase and E-NTDase activities. Coconut water showed significant scavenging activity against DPPH, and significantly inhibited α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities. LC-MS analysis of coconut water revealed the presence of ellagic acid, butin, quercetin, protocatechuic acid, baicalin, and silibinin. Molecular docking analysis revealed potent molecular interactions between the LC-MS-identified compounds, and AKT-2 serine and PI-3 kinase. These results indicate the potential of coconut water to enhance glucose uptake, while concomitantly improving antioxidative and purinergic activities. They also indicate the potential of coconut water to suppress postprandial hyperglycemia. These activities may be attributed to the synergistic effects of the LC-MS-identified compounds.

Nondestructive Evaluation of Metal Bioaccumulation and Biochemical Biomarkers in Blood of Broad-Snouted Caiman (Caiman latirostris) from Northeastern Brasil

Studies on the bioaccumulation and toxicity of contaminants in Crocodylians are scarce. We evaluated alterations in concentrations of the nondestructive biomarkers butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH), together with bioaccumulation of the metals iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), chronium (Cr), aluminium (Al), and lead (Pb) in Caiman latirostris captured in Tapacurá Reservoir (TR; São Lourenço da Mata, Pernambuco, Brasil), in urbanized areas of Pernambuco State (UA; Brasil) and from the AME Brasil caiman farm (AF; Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas, Brasil); the latter was used as a potential reference with low levels of contamination. For metal analysis, 500 µL of blood was digested in 65% HNO3 and 30% H2 O2 . The samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. For analysis of biomarkers, an aliquot of blood was centrifuged to obtain plasma in which biochemical assays were performed. Blood concentrations of metals analyzed in animals from AF were lower compared with TR and UA, confirming that animals from the caiman farm could be used as references with low levels of contamination. Iron, Cu, Mn, Al, and Pb exceeded toxic levels for other vertebrates in animals from TR and UA. Butyrylcholinesterase activity showed significant reduction in adults from UA and TR compared with AF. An increase in the activity of GST and GSH, in adults of TR and UA in relation to AF, was verified. Superoxide dismutase activity showed a significant reduction in adults of TR in relation to AF, and the concentrations of Cu and Mn were negatively correlated with SOD activity. Animals from UA and TR showed greater concentrations of the analyzed metals compared with reference animals, and changes in biomarkers were seen, confirming the potential of these nondestructive chemical and biological parameters in blood of C. latirostris for biomonitoring of pollution. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-18. © 2024 SETAC.

Phytochemical Profiles and Biological Activities of Frankenia Species: A Review

The relatively small Frankeniaceae family is represented by halophyte plants, growing in arid and semi-arid climates in saline, alkaline or calcareous soils. Due to their living conditions, they usually produce a large diversity of compounds, which often exhibit bioactivities. Some species of this genus have long been used as traditional herbal medicines to treat dysentery, diarrhea, gonorrhea, vaginal leucorrhea, respiratory diseases and wounds. To date, several studies on either phytochemical or pharmacological aspects, or both, have revealed that this genus is a rich source of diverse and novel bioactive chemicals, including phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids and fatty acids. This review describes all the reported chemical profiles of Frankenia species, as well as the corresponding biological properties, when available. The aim of this review is to show the potential of these plants for various applications, especially therapeutic ones.

Comparative polyphenolic profiling of five ethnomedicinal plants and their applicative potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The medicinal plants Salvia officinalis, Trifolium pratense, Agrimonia eupatoria, Cichorium intybus and Vinca minor are traditionally used for the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases, including diabetes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the most common diseases nowadays, often accompanied by oxidative stress and microbial infections. The aim of our work was to examine the antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of ethanol extracts of five medicinal plants for the purpose of their possible use in the treatment of T2D.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The polyphenolic profile of the plant extracts was analyzed by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography with a diode array detector configured with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UHPLC/DAD/(-)HESI-MS2). In vitro antidiabetic activity of extracts was determined by measuring the percentage of α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition. The antioxidant activity of the extract was determined by different spectrophotometric methods, while the antimicrobial activity was determined by agar dilution and disc diffusion methods.

RESULTS

A. eupatoria extract contains the highest percentage of flavonoids (94%, with isoquercetin, vitexin, and rutin as the most abundant) in relation to the concentration of total phenolic compounds and exhibits excellent antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. S. officinalis extract contains 60% flavonoids (predominately cirsimaritin and epigallocatechin gallate) and 40% phenolic acids (with rosmarinic acid being the most abundant from this group) and exhibits weak antidiabetic activity, significant antioxidant activity, and excellent antibacterial activity. A 45% percentage of flavonoids (with isoquercetin as the most abundant one) and 55% of phenolic acids (with ferulic acid as the most abundant) were measured in the extract of T. pratense, which had excellent antidiabetic activity but weaker antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. A similar percentage of flavonoids (52%, with epigallocatechin gallate in the highest concentration) and phenolic acids (48%, with chlorogenic acid as the most abundant) was measured in the extract of C. intybus which showed moderate antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The extract of V. minor was the richest in phenolic acids (80%, with the most abundant chlorogenic acid), which resulted in weaker antidiabetic and antioxidant activities (except for Fe2+ chelating ability) and antimicrobial activity.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that specific phenolic compounds are responsible for the different biological activities of the plant extracts. Among the investigated plants, the extract of A. eupatoria has the greatest potential for applications in the treatment of T2D.

Melanoxetin: A Hydroxylated Flavonoid Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Modulates Insulin Resistance and Glycation Pathways in an Animal Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to escalate, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches that target distinct pathways and address DM complications. Flavonoids have been shown to possess several pharmacological activities that are important for DM. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo effects of the flavonoid melanoxetin using Goto-Kakizaki rats. Over a period of 14 days, melanoxetin was administered subcutaneously to investigate its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. The results show that melanoxetin reduced insulin resistance in adipose tissue by targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B. Additionally, melanoxetin counteracted oxidative stress by reducing nitrotyrosine levels and modulating superoxide dismutase 1 and hemeoxygenase in adipose tissue and decreasing methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone (MG-H1), a key advanced glycation end product (AGE) implicated in DM-related complications. Moreover, the glyoxalase 1 expression decreased in both the liver and the heart, correlating with reduced AGE levels, particularly MG-H1 in the heart. Melanoxetin also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by reducing serum prostaglandin E2 levels, and increasing the antioxidant status of the aorta wall through enhanced acetylcholine-dependent relaxation in the presence of ascorbic acid. These findings provide valuable insights into melanoxetin's therapeutic potential in targeting multiple pathways involved in type 2 DM, particularly in mitigating oxidative stress and glycation.

The role of fenugreek seed extract in alleviating pancreatic toxic effects and altering glucose homeostasis induced by acetamiprid via modulation of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy

Acetamiprid (ACMP) is a second-generation neonicotinoid that has been extensively used in the last few years. The present study examined the toxic effects of ACMP on the pancreas and glucose homeostasis through the evaluation of histological and biochemical changes and the possible ameliorative role of fenugreek seed extract (FG). Fifty adult albino rats were divided into 5 groups: negative control, positive control, FG-treated, ACMP-treated, and ACMP + FG-treated groups by oral gavage for 12 weeks. The ACMP-treated group highlighted significant elevations in plasma glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin levels (HbA1c), serum amylase, and serum lipase, along with a decrease in plasma insulin levels. In addition, significant increases in tumour necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-α) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were associated with reductions in the levels of interleukin 10 (IL-10), glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. Moreover, glucose-6-phosphatase and glycogen phosphorylase were significantly increased, with a significant reduction in hexokinase and liver glycogen stores. These biochemical changes were associated with histological changes in pancreatic sections stained by haematoxylin and eosin, Masson stain, and Orcein stain. ACMP-treated cells showed a marked reduction in β- cell immune reactivity to insulin, with pronounced p53, and beclin 1 immune expression. The use of FG with ACMP induced partial protection except for hexokinase and glycogen phosphorylase.

The efficacy of using metformin and/or quercetin for amelioration of gamma-irradiation induced tongue toxicity in diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a common disease that cancer patients may suffer from and may aggravate side effects of radiotherapy. This study aimed to detect whether metformin and/or quercetin will improve gamma-irradiation induced tongue toxicity in diabetic rats.

METHODS

35 male albino rats were divided into five groups; NOR no streptozotocin, no radiation and no treatment was given, DR rats were subjected to streptozotocin then gamma-irradiation, DRM rats were subjected to streptozotocin then gamma-irradiation then metformin, DRQ rats were subjected to streptozotocin then gamma-irradiation then quercetin, DRMQ rats were subjected to streptozotocin then gamma-irradiation then metformin and quercetin. Rats were euthanized 24 h after last treatment dose. Mean blood glucose level was recorded. Tongue specimens were stained with H&E and CD68. Histomorphometric analysis of length, diameter and taste buds of lingual papillae and epithelial, keratin and lamina propria thickness and CD68 positive cells were calculated.

RESULTS

Blood glucose level of DRMQ was significantly lower than DR, DRM and DRQ, whereas higher than NOR. Metformin or quercetin partially restored tongue structure, papillae length and diameter and tongue layers thickness. The ameliorative effect was superior when metformin and quercetin were used together. Diabetes and irradiation significantly increased number of CD68 positive macrophages in submucosa and muscles. Metformin or quercetin significantly reduced number of lingual macrophages with more noticeable effect for quercetin. Treatment with metformin and quercetin significantly decreased number of macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined use of metformin and quercetin might help mitigate the harmful effects of radiotherapy and diabetes on lingual tissues.

Acute Toxicity and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Kyllinga polyphylla Willd. ex Kunth, Cyperaceae Family

Kyllinga polyphylla Willd. ex Kunth. (KP) is a wild herb commonly distributed in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. This study was carried out to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities and acute toxicity of KP before conducting studies at the in vivo level. All parts of KP had the free radical scavenging capacity of DPPH, in which the root methanol extract had the best antioxidant capacity (EC50 = 9.54 ± 0.37 μg/mL). Most of the extracts had a wide range of antibacterial spectra. The methanol and ethanol extracts (200 mg/mL) have ability to resist eight common bacterial strains (including Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria innocua, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis), which is equivalent to the antibacterial activity of amoxicillin and tetracycline at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. KP extracts did not cause death at a dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight and did not significantly change the biochemical, hematological, as well as histological structures of internal organs in toxicity-tested mice in comparison with the control. The research results showed that KP should be more interested in research that supports disease treatment, synthetic extraction of antibiotics, or other in vivo studies.

Association of Genetic polymorphisms of EDN1 gene and Endothelin-1 level in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Jordanian population

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is one of the most potent vasoconstrictors, encoded by the endothelin-1 (EDN1) gene. It has been shown to play an important role in different diseases including Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Various single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the EDN1 gene are related to microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) such as retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy. This study aims to determine the association between two selected EDN1 gene polymorphisms (rs2071942 G > A, rs5370 G > T) and T2DM in the Jordanian population, also to measure the level of ET-1 in T2DM. The samples were collected from the National Center of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Genetics- Amman, Jordan, including 97 patients with T2DM and 80 healthy individuals. PCR-RFLP was used for SNPs genotyping. ET-1 level was determined using IQELISA kits. The univariate analysis for both SNPs didn't show statistically significant differences in the genotype or allele frequencies among T2DM cases as well as in controls. The same results were obtained regarding ET-1 concentration. The subgroup analysis by sex showed that the genotype and allelic frequencies of rs5370, rs2071942 G/A polymorphisms were not significantly different in males and females. Multivariate Analysis adjusted for various confounders didn't express statistical significance difference for occurrences of both SNPs. However, height and gender showed to be significant risk factors for occurrences of heterozygote alleles in both SNPs. On the other hand, the duration of diabetes has appeared to be related to the recessive allele in rs5370.

Nourishing Yin traditional Chinese medicine: potential role in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a common and frequently occurring disease in contemporary society, has become a global health threat. However, current mainstream methods of prevention and treatment, mainly including oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin injections, do not fundamentally block the progression of T2DM. Therefore, it is imperative to find new ways to prevent and treat diabetes. Traditional Chinese medicine is characterized by multiple components, pathways, and targets with mild and long-lasting effects. Pharmacological studies have shown that nourishing yin traditional Chinese medicine (NYTCM) can play a positive role in the treatment of T2DM by regulating pathways such as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor-kappa B, and other pathways to stimulate insulin secretion, protect and repair pancreatic β cells, alleviate insulin resistance, ameliorate disordered glucose and lipid metabolism, mitigate oxidative stress, inhibit inflammatory responses, and regulate the intestinal flora. The pharmacologic activity, mechanisms, safety, and toxicity of NYTCM in the treatment of T2DM are also reviewed in this manuscript.

Synthesis, structural characterizations, in vitro biological evaluation and computational investigations of pyrazole derivatives as potential antidiabetic and antioxidant agents

In this study, a two pyrazole derivatives; 2-(5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carbonyl)-N-phenylhydrazine-1-carboxamide (Pyz-1) and 4-amino-5-(5-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (Pyz-2) were synthesized and characterized by 13C-NMR, 1H-NMR, FT-IR, and mass spectrometry. A complete molecular structures optimization, electronic and thermodynamic properties of Pyz-1 and Pyz-2 in gas phase and aqueous solution were predicted by using hybrid B3LYP method with the 6-311++G** basis sets. Pyz-1 and Pyz-2 were evaluated in vitro for their anti-diabetic, antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibition activities. For anti-diabetic activity, Pyz-1 and Pyz-2 showed a potent α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition with IC50 values of 75.62 ± 0.56, 95.85 ± 0.92 and 119.3 ± 0.75, 120.2 ± 0.68 µM, respectively, compared to Acarbose (IC50(α-glucosidase) = 72.58 ± 0.68 µM, IC50(α-amylase) = 115.6 ± 0.574 µM). In xanthine oxidase assay, Pyz-1 and Pyz-2 exhibited remarkable inhibitory ability with IC50 values 24.32 ± 0.78 and 10.75 ± 0.54 µM, respectively. The result of antioxidant activities showed that the title compounds have considerable antioxidant and radical scavenger abilities. In addition, molecular docking simulation was used to determine the binding modes and energies between the title compounds and α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes.

The Vicious Cycle of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Skeletal Muscle Atrophy: Clinical, Biochemical, and Nutritional Bases

Today, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and skeletal muscle atrophy (SMA) have become increasingly common occurrences. Whether the onset of T2DM increases the risk of SMA or vice versa has long been under investigation. Both conditions are associated with negative changes in skeletal muscle health, which can, in turn, lead to impaired physical function, a lowered quality of life, and an increased risk of mortality. Poor nutrition can exacerbate both T2DM and SMA. T2DM and SMA are linked by a vicious cycle of events that reinforce and worsen each other. Muscle insulin resistance appears to be the pathophysiological link between T2DM and SMA. To explore this association, our review (i) compiles evidence on the clinical association between T2DM and SMA, (ii) reviews mechanisms underlying biochemical changes in the muscles of people with or at risk of T2DM and SMA, and (iii) examines how nutritional therapy and increased physical activity as muscle-targeted treatments benefit this population. Based on the evidence, we conclude that effective treatment of patients with T2DM-SMA depends on the restoration and maintenance of muscle mass. We thus propose that regular intake of key functional nutrients, along with guidance for physical activity, can help maintain euglycemia and improve muscle status in all patients with T2DM and SMA.

Andrographis Paniculata (Burm. F.) Flavonoid Compound and Prevention of Diabetic Retinopathy

Purpose

To explore the effect of the flavonoid compounds of Andrographis paniculata by evaluating the glycemic profile, oxidative process, and inflammatory values in rats with diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods

An extract of A. paniculata was macerated with ethanol which yielded flavonoid compounds. Streptozotocin was utilized to induce diabetes mellitus in male Wistar rats. Vucetic's methods were used to evaluate the retinal vessel diameters. Antioxidant parameters and inflammatory cytokines were assessed in retinal tissue.

Results

A funduscopic examination revealed some alterations in the retinal veins. In comparison to the DR group with no treatment, the diameter of the retinal vessels in the DR group that was treated with the flavonoid component of the A. paniculata extract (FAP) at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg body weight (BW) was significantly smaller (P < 0.05). The DR treatment groups administered with FAP at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg BW had a greater ability to reduce TNF-alpha and VEGF levels as compared to the DR rats without treatment (P < 0.05), Glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase levels were increased after receiving FAP at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg BW (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Administration of doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg BW of the A. paniculata's flavonoid compoundsimproved DR in rats via retinal vessel diameter reduction, TNF-α and VEGF level reduction, and increasing antioxidants, SOD, catalase, and glutathione.

A Review of Antidiabetic Medicinal Plants as a Novel Source of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors: Future Perspective of New Challenges Against Diabetes Mellitus

Intracellular glucose concentration plays a crucial role in initiating the molecular secretory process of pancreatic β-cells through multiple messengers and signaling pathways. Cyclic nucleotides are key physiological regulators that modulate pathway interactions in β -cells. An increase of cyclic nucleotides is controled by hydrolysed phosphodiesterases (PDEs), which degrades cyclic nucleotides into inactive metabolites. Despite the undeniable therapeutic potential of PDE inhibitors, they are associated with several side effects. The treatment strategy for diabetes based on PDE inhibitors has been proposed for a long time. Hence, the world of natural antidiabetic medicinal plants represents an ideal source of phosphodiesterase inhibitors as a new strategy for developing novel agents to treat diabetes mellitus. This review highlights medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus that have been proven to have inhibitory effects on PDE activity. The contents of this review were sourced from electronic databases, including Science Direct, PubMed, Springer Link, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley Online, Scifinder and Google Scholar. These databases were consulted to collect information without any limitation date. After comprehensive literature screening, this paper identified 27 medicinal plants that have been reported to exhibit anti-phosphodiesterase activities. The selection of these plants was based on their traditional uses in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The review emphasizes the antiphosphodiesterase properties of 31 bioactive components derived from these plant extracts. Many phenolic compounds have been identified as PDE inhibitors: Brazilin, mesozygin, artonin I, chalcomaracin, norartocarpetin, moracin L, moracin M, moracin C, curcumin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, quercitrin, quercetin, catechin, kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, and ellagic acid. Moreover, smome lignans have reported as PDE inhibitors: (+)-Medioresinol di-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, (+)- Pinoresinol di-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, (+)-Pinoresinol-4-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl (1→6)-β-dglucopyranoside, Liriodendrin, (+)-Pinoresinol 4'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, and forsythin. This review provides a promising starting point of medicinal plants, which could be further studied for the development of natural phosphodiesterase inhibitors to treat diabetes mellitus. Therefore, it is important to consider clinical studies for the identification of new targets for the treatment of diabetes.

Mechanism of peroxidasin inactivation in hyperglycemia: Heme damage by reactive oxygen species

Diabetic complications present a serious health problem. Functional damage to proteins due to post-translational modifications by glycoxidation reactions is a known factor contributing to pathology. Extracellular proteins are especially vulnerable to diabetic damage because robust antioxidant defenses are lacking outside the cell. We investigated glucose-induced inactivation of peroxidasin (PXDN), a heme protein catalyzing sulfilimine crosslinking of collagen IV that reinforce the basement membranes (BM). Experiments using physiological diabetic glucose levels were carried out to exclude several potential mechanisms of PXDN inactivation i.e., direct adduction of glucose, reactive carbonyl damage, steric hindrance, and osmotic stress. Further experiments established that PXDN activity was inhibited via heme degradation by reactive oxygen species. Activity of another extracellular heme protein, myeloperoxidase, was unaffected by glucose because its heme was resistant to glucose-induced oxidative degradation. Our findings point to specific mechanisms which may compromise BM structure and stability in diabetes and suggest potential modes of protection.

In Vitro Hypoglycemic and Antioxidant Activities of Dichloromethane Extract of Xerophyta spekei

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder which has greatly led to an increase in morbidity and mortality globally. Although Xerophyta spekei is widely used for the management of diabetes among the Embu and Mbeere communities in Kenya, it has never been empirically evaluated for its hypoglycemic activity. This study was carried out to verify the hypoglycemic activity of dichloromethane (DCM) extract of Xerophyta spekei as well as its antioxidant activity using various in vitro techniques. Phytochemicals associated with its antioxidant activity were identified through GC-MS. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics and expressed as mean ± standard error of the mean (X̄ ± SEM). Comparison between various variables was performed by using unpaired Student's t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey's post-hoc test. The confidence interval was set at 95%. The obtained results were presented in tables and graphs. Results showed that there was no difference in α-amylase inhibition activity between the plant extract and the standard (IC50 525.9 ± 12.34 and 475.1 ± 9.115, respectively; p  >  0.05). Besides, the glucose adsorption activity of the extract increased with an increase in glucose concentration (from 5.89 to 32.64 mg/dl at 5 mmol and 30 mmol of glucose, respectively; p  <  0.05). The extract also limited the diffusion of glucose more than the negative control (7.49 and 17.63 mg/dl, respectively; p  <  0.05). It also enhanced glucose uptake by yeast cells. In addition, the studied plant extract showed notable antioxidant activities. The therapeutic effects exhibited by this plant in managing diabetes mellitus and other ailments could be due to its antioxidant as well as its hypoglycemic activity. The study recommends the evaluation of X. spekei for in vivo hypoglycemic and antioxidant activities. Besides, the isolation of bioactive phytochemicals from the plant may lead to the development of new hypoglycaemic agents.

The Potential Role of Gossypetin in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus and Its Associated Complications: A Review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder caused by insulin resistance and dysfunctional beta (β)-cells in the pancreas. Hyperglycaemia is a characteristic of uncontrolled diabetes which eventually leads to fatal organ system damage. In T2DM, free radicals are continuously produced, causing extensive tissue damage and subsequent macro-and microvascular complications. The standard approach to managing T2DM is pharmacological treatment with anti-diabetic medications. However, patients' adherence to treatment is frequently decreased by the side effects and expense of medications, which has a detrimental impact on their health outcomes. Quercetin, a flavonoid, is a one of the most potent anti-oxidants which ameliorates T2DM. Thus, there is an increased demand to investigate quercetin and its derivatives, as it is hypothesised that similar structured compounds may exhibit similar biological activity. Gossypetin is a hexahydroxylated flavonoid found in the calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa. Gossypetin has a similar chemical structure to quercetin with an extra hydroxyl group. Furthermore, previous literature has elucidated that gossypetin exhibits neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, reproprotective and nephroprotective properties. The mechanisms underlying gossypetin's therapeutic potential have been linked to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Hence, this review highlights the potential role of gossypetin in the treatment of diabetes and its associated complications.

Molecular Mechanisms Linking Diabetes with Increased Risk of Thrombosis

This review will provide an overview of what is currently known about mechanisms linking poor glycaemic control with increased thrombotic risk. The leading causes of death in people with diabetes are strokes and cardiovascular disease. Significant morbidity is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis, resulting in myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke, and peripheral vascular disease, along with the sequelae of these events, including loss of functional ability, heart failure, and amputations. While the increased platelet activity, pro-coagulability, and endothelial dysfunction directly impact this risk, the molecular mechanisms linking poor glycaemic control with increased thrombotic risk remain unclear. This review highlights the complex mechanisms underlying thrombosis prevalence in individuals with diabetes and hyperglycaemia. Post-translational modifications, such as O-GlcNAcylation, play a crucial role in controlling protein function in diabetes. However, the role of O-GlcNAcylation remains poorly understood due to its intricate regulation and the potential involvement of multiple variables. Further research is needed to determine the precise impact of O-GlcNAcylation on specific disease processes.

Renal protective effect of ellipticine against streptozotocin induced diabetic nephropathy in rats via suppression of oxidative stress and inflammatory mediator

PURPOSE

Diabetes mellitus is a serious health problem worldwide, and diabetic nephropathy is the complication. The diabetic nephropathy considerably enhances the oxidative stress, glycation, lipid parameters and inflammatory reaction. Ellipticine has potent free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effect.

METHODS

In the current study, our objectives were to thoroughly examine the renal protective effects of ellipticine in a rat model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy (DN) and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved. For the induction of diabetic nephropathy, streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) was used, and rats were separated into groups and given varying doses of ellipticine (2.5, 5 and 7.5 mg/kg). The body weight, and renal weight were estimated. The inflammatory cytokines, renal biomarkers, inflammatory antioxidant, and urine parameters were estimated.

RESULTS

Result showed that ellipticine considerably enhanced the body weight and reduced the renal tissue weight. Ellipticine treatment significantly (P < 0.001) repressed the level of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, uric acid, blood glucose and altered the lipid parameters. Ellipticine significantly (P < 0.001) repressed the level of malonaldehyde and boosted the glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. Ellipticine treatment significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators.

CONCLUSIONS

Ellipticine could be a renal protective drug via attenuating the inflammatory reaction, fibrosis and oxidative stress in streptozotocin induced rats.

Phytochemical profiling, human insulin stability and alpha glucosidase inhibition of Gymnema latifolium leaves aqueous extract: Exploring through experimental and in silico approach

Diabetes mellitus Type 2 (DM2T) is a rapidly expanding metabolic endocrine disorder worldwide. It is caused due to inadequate insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells as well as development of insulin resistance. This study aimed to investigate the anti-α-glucosidase, insulin stabilization effect, and non-cytotoxic nature of Gymnema latifolium leaf aqueous extract (GLAE). FTIR analysis revealed the functional groups of compounds present in GLAE. Through LC/ESI-MS/MS analysis, about 12 compounds which belongs to different classes, triterpene glycosides, flavonoids, phenolics, stilbene glycosides and chlorophenolic glycosides were identified. GLAE showed in vitro antioxidant activity. GLAE stabilized insulin by increasing its α-helical content. GLAE inhibited the mammalian α-glucosidase (IC50 = 144 μg/mL) activity through competitive mode (Ki = 61.30 µg/mL). GLAE did not affect the viability of normal cell line (Vero cell line) which shows its non-toxic nature. Molecular docking of phytocompounds identified in GLAE was done with human α-glucosidase and insulin. The top 2 compounds [Gymnema saponin V (GSV) and quercetin 3-(2-galloylglucoside) (QGG) with α-glucosidase; GSV and Z)-resveratrol 3,4'-diglucoside (RDG) with human insulin] with low binding free energy were subjected to 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation to ascertain the stable binding of ligand with protein. The MM/GBSA analysis revealed binding free energy of GSV/α-glucosidase and QGG /α-glucosidase to be - 20.9935 and, - 30.9461 kcal/mol, respectively. Altogether GLAE is valuable source of anti-α-glucosidase inhibitors and insulin stabilizing compounds, suggesting potential lead for further exploration as complementary medicine against DM2T.

A comprehensive review on the risks assessment and treatment options for Sarcopenia in people with diabetes

Objectives

This comprehensive review aims to examine the reciprocal interplay between Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and sarcopenia, identify prevailing research gaps, and discuss therapeutic approaches and measures to enhance healthcare practices within hospital settings.

Methods

A thorough literature review was conducted to gather relevant studies and articles on the relationship between T2DM and sarcopenia. Various databases were searched, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. The search terms included T2DM, sarcopenia, inflammation, insulin resistance, advanced glycation end products, oxidative stress, muscle dimensions, muscle strength, muscle performance, aging, nutrition, hormone levels, and physical activity. The collected articles were critically analysed to extract key findings and identify gaps in current research.

Results

The prevalence and incidence of metabolic and musculoskeletal disorders, notably T2DM and sarcopenia, have surged in recent years. T2DM is marked by inflammation, insulin resistance, accumulation of advanced glycation end products, and oxidative stress, while sarcopenia involves a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass and function. The review underscores the age-related correlation between sarcopenia and adverse outcomes like fractures, falls, and mortality. Research gaps regarding optimal nutritional interventions for individuals with T2DM and sarcopenia are identified, emphasizing the necessity for further investigation in this area.

Conclusions

The reciprocal interplay between T2DM and sarcopenia holds significant importance. Further research is warranted to address knowledge gaps, particularly in utilizing precise measurement tools during clinical trials. Lifestyle modifications appear beneficial for individuals with T2DM and sarcopenia. Additionally, practical nutritional interventions require investigation to optimize healthcare practices in hospital settings.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01262-w.

Protecting mechanism of Swietenia macrophylla ethanol extract nanoparticle on streptozotocin induced renal damage in rat

Background

Hyperglycemia increases reactive oxygen species (ROS), which contributes to diabetic complications such as kidney cell damage. Antioxidant administration could inhibit ROS and kidney cell damage commonly seen in hyperglycemia.

Aim

We want to demonstrate that the antioxidant properties of Swietenia macrophylla ethanol extract nanoparticles can prevent kidney cell damage brought on by streptozotocin (STZ) in the current investigation.

Methods

This study employs high-energy ball milling to produce nanoparticles from S. macrophylla extract. Additionally, dynamic light scattering (DLS) is utilized to characterize the nanoparticle sizes of the S. macrophylla ethanol extract. Five groups, each consisting of 8 rats, were formed from 40 rats. Control rats received distilled water, the diabetic rats were administered STZ injections, while S. macrophylla rats were given S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles orally and STZ injection. After the trial, blood from a rat was drawn intracardially to check the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were then assessed in kidney tissue samples. Histological alterations were evaluated in kidney section samples.

Results

A DLS analysis estimated the size of the S. macrophylla ethanol extract nanoparticles to be about 91.50 ± 23.06 nm. BUN and creatinine levels were significantly raised after STZ treatment. STZ significantly decreased SOD and GPx levels in kidney tissue while raising MDA levels (p < 0.05). Swietenia macrophylla ethanol extract nanoparticle caused the decreased levels of BUN and creatinine in blood to normal levels (p < 0.05), indicating that S. macrophylla ethanol extract prevented the STZ-induced kidney cell damage. Additionally, S. macrophylla nanoparticles significantly raise GPx and SOD levels in kidney tissue while lowering MDA levels (p < 0.05). These actions are thought to have prevented kidney histological alterations (degeneration and necrosis) in diabetic rats.

Conclusion

According to these results, the anti-oxidative stress properties of S. macrophylla nanoparticles make them potentially effective nephroprotective therapies for STZ-induced kidney cell damage.

Natural Functional Beverages as an Approach to Manage Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease, commonly associated with unhealthy habits and obesity, and it is becoming a serious health issue worldwide. As a result, new approaches to treat diabetes are required, and a movement towards more natural approaches is emerging. Consuming fruit and vegetables is advised to prevent diabetes since they contain several bioactive compounds. A simple and effective strategy to include them in the diets of diabetic and obese people is through beverages. This review aims to report the anti-diabetic potentials of different vegetable and fruit beverages. These functional beverages demonstrated in vitro potential to inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes and to improve glucose uptake. In vivo, beverage consumption showed a reduction of blood glucose, increase of insulin tolerance, improvement of lipid profile, control of obesity, and reduction of oxidative stress. This suggests the potential of vegetable- and fruit-based functional beverages to be used as a natural innovative therapy for the management of diabetes.

Pharmacological and Clinical Studies of Medicinal Plants That Inhibit Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) is an enzyme responsible for the degradation of the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). DPP-IV plays a significant role in regulating blood glucose levels by modulating the activity of GLP-1. In the context of diabetes, DPP-IV inhibitors effectively block the activity of DPP-IV, hence mitigating the degradation of GLP-1. This, in turn, leads to an extension of GLP-1's duration of action, prolongs gastric emptying, enhances insulin sensitivity, and ultimately results in the reduction of blood glucose levels. Nonetheless, reported adverse events of DPP-IV inhibitors on T2DM patients make it essential to understand the activity and mechanism of these drugs, particularly viewed from the perspective of finding the effective and safe add-on medicinal plants, to be implemented in clinical practice. This review is intended to bring forth a thorough overview of plants that work by reducing DPP-IV activity, from computational technique, enzymatic study, animal experiments, and studies in humans. The articles were searched on PubMed using "Plants", "DPP-IV", "DPP-IV inhibitor", "GLP-1", "Type 2 diabetes", "diabetes", "in silico", "in vitro", "in vivo", "studies in human", "clinical study" as the query words, and filtered for ten years of publication period. Eighteen plants showed inhibition against DPP-IV as proven by in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies; however, only ten plants were reported for efficacy in clinical studies. Several plant-based DPP-IV inhibitors, eg, Allium sativum, Morus Alba, Curcuma longa, Pterocarpus marsupium, and Taraxacum officinale, have established their functional role in inhibiting DPP-IV and have proven their effectiveness through studies in humans earning them a prominent place in therapeutic discovery.

The Response of Antioxidant Enzymes and Antiapoptotic Markers to an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) in Children and Adolescents with Excess Body Weight

Oxidative stress and apoptosis are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases. This observational study investigates the antioxidant and apoptotic markers response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in a population of overweight children and adolescents, with normal (NGT) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Glucose, insulin, and C-peptide concentrations, as well as oxidative stress (SOD, GPx3) and apoptotic markers (Apo1fas, cck18), were determined at T = 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after glucose intake during OGTT. The lipid profile, thyroid function, insulin-like growth factor1, leptin, ghrelin, and adiponectin were also measured at baseline. The 45 participants, with a mean age of 12.15 (±2.3) years old, were divided into two subcategories: those with NGΤ (n = 31) and those with IGT (n = 14). The area under the curve (AUC) of glucose, insulin, and C-peptide was greater in children with IGT; however, only glucose differences were statistically significant. SOD and GPx3 levels were higher at all time points in the IGT children. Apo1fas and cck18 levels were higher in the NGT children at most time points, whereas Adiponectin was lower in the IGT group. Glucose increased during an OGTT accompanied by a simultaneous increase in antioxidant factors, which may reflect a compensatory mechanism against the impending increase in oxidative stress in children with IGT.

Dapagliflozin Mitigated Elevated Disomic and Diploid Sperm in a Mouse Model of Diabetes and Recover the Disrupted Ogg1, Parp1, and P53 Gene Expression

Increases in numerical chromosomal syndromes were observed in children of diabetic mothers. However, the effects of diabetes on male reproduction, specifically numerical chromosomal aberrations (aneuploidy), have not been studied. Furthermore, despite the increasing use of dapagliflozin for diabetes treatment, no data exists on its ability to affect aneuploidy levels in germ cells. Thus, our investigation aimed to evaluate the effects of diabetes on spontaneous sperm aneuploidy and whether treatment with dapagliflozin influences the frequency of aneuploidy in the sperm of an experimental diabetic animal model. Our findings show that dapagliflozin has no aneugenic effects on the meiotic stages of spermatogenesis. In contrast, diabetes raised the frequency of aneuploidy, and dapagliflozin administration decreased the elevated levels of disomic and diploid sperm. The level of oxidative stress was markedly increased in diabetic mice, but were reduced by dapagliflozin treatment. Furthermore, the expression of some of DNA repair genes was disrupted in diabetic animals, whereas dapagliflozin therapy restored these disruptions and significantly enhanced DNA repair. Thus, dapagliflozin may effectively ameliorate diabetes-induced aneugenic effects on male meiosis and treating diabetic patients with dapagliflozin may effectively mitigate the transmission of diabetes-induced chromosomal defects to offspring.

Saxagliptin, a selective dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, alleviates somatic cell aneugenicity and clastogenicity in diabetic mice

Diabetes-related complications are becoming increasingly common as the global prevalence of diabetes increases. Diabetes is also linked to a high risk of developing cancer. This raises the question of whether cancer vulnerability is caused by diabetes itself or the use of antidiabetic drugs. Chromosomal instability, a source of genetic modification involving either an altered chromosomal number or structure, is a hallmark of cancer. Saxagliptin has been approved by the FDA for diabetes treatment. However, the detailed in vivo effects of prolonged saxagliptin treatment on chromosomal instability have not yet been reported. In this study, streptozotocin was used to induce diabetes in mice, and both diabetic and non-diabetic mice received saxagliptin for five weeks. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was conducted in combination with a bone marrow micronucleus test for measuring chromosomal instability. Our results indicated that saxagliptin is neither mutagenic nor cytotoxic, under the given treatment regimen. Diabetic mice had a much higher incidence of micronuclei formation, and a centromeric DNA probe was present inside the majority of the induced micronuclei, indicating that most of these were caused by chromosome nondisjunction. Conversely, diabetic mice treated with saxagliptin exhibited a significant decrease in micronuclei induction, which were centromeric-positive and centromeric-negative. Diabetes also causes significant biochemical changes indicative of oxidative stress, such as increased lipid peroxidation and decreased reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio, which was reversed by saxagliptin administration. Overall, saxagliptin, the non-mutagenic antidiabetic drug, maintains chromosomal integrity in diabetes and reduces micronuclei formation by restoring redox imbalance, further indicating its usefulness in diabetic patients.

Melatonin protects HT-22 cells against palmitic acid-induced glucolipid metabolic dysfunction and cell injuries: Involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and circadian rhythms

Melatonin (MLT) is ahormonal substance reported with various pharmacological activities.Based on its effects of neuroprotection and metabolic regulation, the aim of the present study is to investigate its potential effect on palmitic acid (PA)-induced cell injuries and glucolipid metabolic dysfunction and explore the possible mechanism. Briefly, HT-22 cells were challenged with PA (0.1 mM, 24 h) and treated with MLT (10-6-10-8 mol/L). Cell proliferation, lipid accumulation and glucose consumption were detected. The protein expression of key molecular involved with the function of synaptic plasticity and circadian rhythms were measured via western blotting, and the expression of Map-2, MT1A, MT1B and Bmal1 were measured via immunofluorescence staining. The results showed that MLT could alleviate the neurotoxicity induced by PA, as indicated by the increased cell proliferation, enhanced fluorescence intensity of Map-2, and decreased lipid deposition and insulin resistance. Moreover, treatment of MLT could reverse the imbalanced expression of p-Akt, p-ERK, Synapsin I, Synaptotagmin I, BDNF, MT1B, Bmal1, and Clock in PA-induced HT-22 cells. These results suggested a remarkably neuroprotective effect of MLT against PA-induced cell injury and glucolipid metabolic dysfunction, the mechanism of which might be involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and circadian rhythms.

Medicinal benefits, biological, and nanoencapsulation functions of riboflavin with its toxicity profile: A narrative review

Riboflavin is a precursor of the essential coenzymes flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide. Both possess antioxidant properties and are involved in oxidation-reduction reactions, which have a significant impact on energy metabolism. Also, the coenzymes participate in metabolism of pyridoxine, niacin, folate, and iron. Humans must obtain riboflavin through their daily diet because of the lack of programmed enzymatic machineries for de novo riboflavin synthesis. Because of its physiological nature and fast elimination from the human body when in excess, riboflavin consumed is unlikely to induce any negative effects or develop toxicity in humans. The use of riboflavin in pharmaceutical and clinical contexts has been previously explored, including for preventing and treating oxidative stress and reperfusion oxidative damage, creating synergistic compounds to mitigate colorectal cancer, modulating blood pressure, improving diabetes mellitus comorbidities, as well as neuroprotective agents and potent photosensitizer in killing bloodborne pathogens. Thus, the goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of riboflavin's biological applications in medicine, key considerations of riboflavin safety and toxicity, and a brief overview on the nanoencapsulation of riboflavin for various functions including the treatment of a range of diseases, photodynamic therapy, and cellular imaging.

New insights into anti-diabetes effects and molecular mechanisms of dietary saponins

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a long-term metabolic disorder that manifests as chronic hyperglycemia and impaired insulin, bringing a heavy load on the global health care system. Considering the inevitable side effects of conventional anti-diabetic drugs, saponins-rich natural products exert promising therapeutic properties to serve as safer and more cost-effective alternatives for DM management. Herein, this review systematically summarized the research progress on the anti-diabetic properties of dietary saponins and their underlying molecular mechanisms in the past 20 years. Dietary saponins possessed the multidirectional anti-diabetic capabilities by concurrent regulation of various signaling pathways, such as IRS-1/PI3K/Akt, AMPK, Nrf2/ARE, NF-κB-NLRP3, SREBP-1c, and PPARγ, in liver, pancreas, gut, and skeletal muscle. However, the industrialization and commercialization of dietary saponin-based drugs are confronted with a significant challenge due to the low bioavailability and lack of the standardization. Hence, in-depth evaluations in pharmacological profile, function-structure interaction, drug-signal pathway interrelation are essential for developing dietary saponins-based anti-diabetic treatments in the future.

α-lipoic acid ameliorates hepatotoxicity induced by chronic ammonia toxicity in crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) by alleviating oxidative stress, inflammation and inhibiting ERS pathway

High environment ammonia (HEA) poses a deadly threat to aquatic animals and indirectly impacts human healthy life, while nutritional regulation can alleviate chronic ammonia toxicity. α-lipoic acid exhibits antioxidative effects in both aqueous and lipid environments, mitigating cellular and tissue damage caused by oxidative stress by aiding in the neutralization of free radicals (reactive oxygen species). Hence, investigating its potential as an effective antioxidant and its protective mechanisms against chronic ammonia stress in crucian carp is highly valuable. Experimental fish (initial weight 20.47 ± 1.68 g) were fed diets supplemented with or without 0.1% α-lipoic acid followed by a chronic ammonia exposure (10 mg/L) for 42 days. The results revealed that chronic ammonia stress affected growth (weight gain rate, specific growth rate, and feed conversion rate), leading to oxidative stress (decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase; decreased total antioxidant capacity), increased lipid peroxidation (accumulation of malondialdehyde), immune suppression (decreased contents of nonspecific immune enzymes AKP and ACP, 50% hemolytic complement, and decrease of immunoglobulin M), impaired ammonia metabolism (reduced contents of Glu, GS, GSH, and Gln), imbalance of expression of induced antioxidant-related genes (downregulation of Cu/Zu SOD, CAT, Nrf2, and HO-1; upregulation of GST and Keap1), induction of pro-apoptotic molecules (transcription of BAX, Caspase3, and Caspase9), downregulation of anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 expression, and induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress (upregulation of IRE1, PERK, and ATF6 expression). The results suggested that the supplementation of α-lipoic acid could effectively induce humoral immunity, alleviate oxidative stress injury and endoplasmic reticulum stress, and ultimately alleviate liver injury induced by ammonia poisoning (50-60% reduction). This provides theoretical basis for revealing the toxicity of long-term ammonia stress and provides new insights into the anti-ammonia toxicity mechanism of α-lipoic acid.

Effect of Prunetin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats - a Biochemical and Molecular Approach

In the modern era, chronic kidney failure due to diabetes has spread across the globe. Prunetin (PRU), a component of herbal medicines, has a broad variety of pharmacological activities; these may help to slow the onset of diabetic kidney disease. The anti-nephropathic effects of PRU have not yet been reported. The present study explored the potential nephroprotective actions of PRU in diabetic rats. For 28 days, nephropathic rats were given oral doses of PRU (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg). Body weight, blood urea, creatinine, total protein, lipid profile, liver marker enzymes, carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, C-reactive protein, antioxidants, lipid peroxidative indicators, and the expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2) mRNA genes were all examined. Histological examinations of the kidneys, liver, and pancreas were also performed. The oral treatment of PRU drastically lowered the blood glucose, HbA1c, blood urea, creatinine, serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lipid profile, and hexokinase. Meanwhile, the levels of fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase were all elevated, but glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase dropped significantly. Inflammatory marker antioxidants and lipid peroxidative markers were also less persistent due to this administration. PRU upregulated the IRS-1 and GLUT-2 gene expression in the nephropathic group. The possible renoprotective properties of PRU were validated by histopathology of the liver, kidney, and pancreatic tissues. It is therefore proposed that PRU (80 mg/kg) has considerable renoprotective benefits in diabetic nephropathy in rats.

Antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of compound isolated from Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L) Vahl. leaves

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis is one of the folk medicines used for the treatment of diabetes in Ambon, Indonesia, but there are limited studies on the bioactivities of its constituents. This study aims to assess the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of four extracts of S. jamaicensis leaves extracted using several solvents. Bioassay guided fractionation on each extract establishes for exploring S. jamaicensis leaves active compounds. The antioxidant was evaluated using the DPPH and ABTS methods, while the α-glucosidase inhibitory was carried out in vitro assay. The results showed that the methanol extract of S. jamaicensis leaves displays inhibition of DPPH, ABTS and α-glucosidase activity compared to other solvent extracts. Furthermore, 6β-hydroxyipolamiide was successfully isolated from the methanol extract of S. jamicensis leaves which was reported to have α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 539.17 μg/mL. Based on the results, S. jamaicensis could be recommended as an antioxidant and antidiabetic agent.

Inhibitory properties of quinopimaric acid derivatives towards cholinesterases

A series of new diterpene quinopimaric acid derivatives modified at the hydroxyl group with different pharmacophore fragments has been synthesised and their (along with previously obtained compounds) inhibitory properties towards cholinesterases were studied. Thereby an indole-3-acetyl derivative 7 and a propargyl substituted compound 28 were shown to be excellent and acetylcholinesterase-selective inhibitors. Both compounds inhibited the enzyme as a mixed type inhibitor, and Ki values of 0.41 and 0.44 µM and Ki' values of 0.98 and 2.26 µM were determined. The binding interactions between all active compounds and ligands protein were confirmed through molecular docking study.

Angelica polysaccharides relieve blood glucose levels in diabetic KKAy mice possibly by modulating gut microbiota: an integrated gut microbiota and metabolism analysis

BACKGROUND

Angelica polysaccharides (AP) have numerous benefits in relieving type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood. Recent many reports have suggested that altering gut microbiota can have adverse effects on the host metabolism and contribute to the development of T2D. Here, we successfully established the T2D model using the male KKAy mice with high-fat and high-sugar feed. Meanwhile, the male C57BL/6 mice were fed with a normal feed. T2D KKAy mice were fed either with or without AP supplementation. In each group, we measured the mice's fasting blood glucose, weight, and fasting serum insulin levels. We collected the cecum content of mice, the gut microbiota was analyzed by targeted full-length 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing and metabolites were analyzed by untargeted-metabolomics.

RESULTS

We found AP effectively alleviated glycemic disorders of T2D KKAy mice, with the changes in gut microbiota composition and function. Many bacteria species and metabolites were markedly changed in T2D KKAy mice and reversed by AP. Additionally, 16 altered metabolic pathways affected by AP were figured out by combining metagenomic pathway enrichment analysis and metabolic pathway enrichment analysis. The key metabolites in 16 metabolic pathways were significantly associated with the gut microbial alteration. Together, our findings showed that AP supplementation could attenuate the diabetic phenotype. Significant gut microbiota and gut metabolite changes were observed in the T2D KKAy mice and AP intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of AP has been shown to improve the composition of intestinal microbiota in T2D KKAy mice, thus providing further evidence for the potential therapeutic application of AP in the treatment of T2D.

Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Cystic Fibrosis and Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes in Children: A Literature Review

The most common inherited condition that results in death, particularly in those of Caucasian heritage, is cystic fibrosis (CF). Of all the young adults diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, 20% will develop hyperglycemia as a complication, later classified as a disease associated with cystic fibrosis. Impaired insulin secretion and glucose intolerance represent the primary mechanisms associated with diabetes (type 1 or type 2) and cystic fibrosis. Oxidative stress represents the imbalance between oxygen-reactive species and antioxidant defense mechanisms. This pathogenic mechanism is vital in triggering other chronic diseases, including cystic fibrosis-related diabetes. It is essential to understand oxidative stress and the significant impact it has on CFRD. This way, therapies can be individually adjusted and tailored to each patient's needs. This review aims to understand the connection between CFRD and oxidative stress. As a subsidiary element, we analyzed the effects of glycemic balance on complications and their evolution over time, providing insights into their potential benefits in mitigating oxidative stress-associated complications.

Synthesis and diverse biological activities of substituted indole β-carbolines: a review

β-Carboline bearing indole is one of the heterocyclic compounds that play a vital role in medicinal chemistry with various pharmacological effects such as anticancer, anti-acetylcholinesterase, anti-inflammation, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant. Over the last two decades, many studies on the synthesis and biological activity of indole β-carboline compounds have been conducted yet there is no appropriate data summary has been presented. Thus, the goal of this review was to highlight the synthesis pathway and bioactivity of substituted indole β-carboline reported from 2005 to date. In addition, this will encourage further investigation into the synthesis and evaluation of new indole β-carboline, in the hope of contributing to the development of potentially new medications for the treatment of various ailments.

Exploring plant-based alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: promising contenders for combatting type-2 diabetes

Objective: This systematic review aimed to provide comprehensive details on the α-G inhibitory potential of various bioactive compounds derived from natural sources.Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various databases and search engines, including Science Direct, Google Scholar, SciFinder, Web of Science, and PubMed until May, 2023.Results and conclusions: The enzyme alpha-glucosidase (α-G) is found in the brush border epithelium of the small intestine and consists of duplicated glycoside hydrolase (GH31) domain. It involves the conversion of disaccharides and oligosaccharides into monosaccharides by acting on alpha (1 → 4) and (1 → 6) linked glucose residue. Once absorbed, glucose enters the bloodstream and elevates postprandial glucose, which is associated with the development of type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Epidemic obesity, cardiovascular disease, and nephropathy are linked to T2D. Traditional medicinal plants with α-G inhibitory potential are commonly used to treat T2D due to the adverse effects of currently used α-G inhibitors miglitol, acarbose, and voglibose. Various bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, including lupenone, Wilforlide A, Baicalein, Betulinic acid, Ursolic acid, Oleanolic acid, Katononic acid, Carnosol, Hypericin, Astilbin, lupeol, betulonic acid, Fagomine, Lactucaxanthin, Erythritol, GP90-1B, Procyanidins, Galangin, and vomifoliol retain α-G inhibitory potential for regulating hyperglycaemia.

Role of Oxidative Stress in Tuberculosis Meningitis Infection in Diabetics

Tuberculosis meningitis (TBM) is a result of the invasion of the meninges with the bacilli of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), leading to inflammation of the meninges around the brain or spinal cord. Oxidative stress occurs when the body's cells become overwhelmed with free radicals, particularly reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of TBM due to their toxic nature, resulting in impairment of the body's ability to fight off infection. ROS damages the endothelial cells and impairs the defense mechanisms of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which contributes to CNS susceptibility to the bacteria causing TBM. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common condition that is characterized by the impairment of the hormone insulin, which is responsible for modulating blood glucose levels. The increased availability of glucose in individuals with diabetes results in increased cellular activity and metabolism, leading to heightened ROS production and, in turn, increased susceptibility to TBM. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of oxidative stress and its role in both TBM and DM. We further discuss how increased oxidative stress in DM can contribute to the likelihood of developing TBM and potential therapeutic approaches that may be of therapeutic value.

The Effect of G. applanatum Crude Polysaccharide Extract on Proinflammatory Cytokines and Proapoptotic Caspases in HeLa Cell Line: An In Vitro Study

Polysaccharide extracts exhibit promise as potential anticancer agents. Among the fungi rich in polysaccharide content, G. applanatum stands out; however, its anticancer activity necessitates further investigation. This study aims to explore the impact of G. applanatum crude polysaccharide (GACP) extract by assessing its effects on cell viability, levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-12, and levels of proapoptotic markers including caspase-3 and caspase-9, as well as the percentages of necrosis and apoptosis in the HeLa cell line. Employing the HeLa cell line as a research model, four groups were studied: KN (media and DMSO), K+ (doxorubicin 10 μg/mL), P1 (G. applanatum extract 200 μg/mL), and P2 (G. applanatum extract 400 μg/mL). The G. applanatum extract was obtained via boiling distilled water. Anticancer activity was evaluated through the MTT test (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) conducted over three treatment durations (24, 48, and 72 hours). Cytokine levels and caspase-3 and caspase-9 levels were assessed using the ELISA test. Cell apoptosis was determined using the Annexin V-PI biomarker and analyzed through flow cytometry. The MTT test exhibited optimal results at the 48-hour treatment mark. Cytokine level analysis revealed significant reductions in TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-12 levels (p < 0.005). Concurrently, caspase-3 and caspase-9 levels exhibited substantial increases (p < 0.005). Flow cytometry highlighted the highest percentage of apoptosis in HeLa cells. In conclusion, G. applanatum's polysaccharide extract demonstrates potential as an anticancer and therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) mitigates ER stress and improves viability and insulin sensitivity in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASC) of equine metabolic syndrome (EMS)-affected horses

BACKGROUND

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), which encompasses insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation and predisposition to laminitis is a critical endocrine disorder among the most prevalent conditions affecting horses from different breeds. According to the most recent research, low human sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) serum levels correlate with an increased risk of obesity, insulin resistance and diabetes, and may contribute to overall metabolic dysregulations. This study aimed to test whether exogenous SHBG could protect EMS affected adipose-derived stromal stem cells (EqASCEMS) from apoptosis, oxidative stress, ER stress and thus improve insulin sensitivity.

METHODS

EqASCEMS wells were treated with two different concentrations (50 and 100 nM) of exogenous SHBG, whose biocompatibility was tested after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation. Several parameters including cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, reactive oxygen species levels, ER stress, Pi3K/MAPK activation and insulin transducers expression were analysed.

RESULTS

Obtained data demonstrated that exogenous SHBG treatment significantly promoted ASCs cells proliferation, cell cycle and survival with reduced expression of p53 and p21 pro-apoptotic mediators. Furthermore, SHBG alleviated the oxidative stress caused by EMS and reduced the overaccumulation of intracellular ROS, by reducing ROS + cell percentage and regulating gene expression of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (Sod 1, Cat, GPx), SHBG treatment exhibited antioxidant activity by modulating total nitric oxide (NO) levels in EMS cells as well. SHBG treatment dampened the activation of ER stress sensors and effectors in EqASCEMS cells via the upregulation of MiR-7a-5p, the decrease in the expression levels of ATF-6, CHOP and eiF2A and the restoration of PDIA3 chaperone protein levels. As a consequence, SHBG application substantially improved insulin sensitivity through the modulation of Pi3K/Akt/Glut4 insulin signalling cascades.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the SHBG is endowed with crucial beneficial effects on ASCs metabolic activities and could serve as a valuable therapeutic target for the development of efficient EMS treatment protocols. Video Abstract.

Single Functional Group Platform for Multistimuli Responsivities: Tertiary Amine for CO2/pH/ROS-Triggered Cargo Release in Nanocarriers

The design of multistimuli-responsive soft nanoparticles (NPs) often presents synthetic complexities and limited breadth in exploiting changes surrounding physiological environments. Nanocarriers that could collectively take advantage of several endogenous stimuli can offer a powerful tool in nanomedicine. Herein, we have capitalized on the chemical versatility of a single tertiary amine to construct miktoarm polymer-based nanocarriers that respond to dissolved CO2, varied pH, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and ROS + CO2. Curcumin (Cur), an anti-inflammatory phytopharmaceutic, was loaded into micelles, and we validated the sensitivity of the tertiary amine in tuning Cur release. An in vitro evaluation indicated that Cur encapsulation strongly suppressed its toxicity at high concentrations, significantly inhibited nigericin-induced secretion of interleukin-1β by THP-1 macrophages, and the proportion of M2/M1 (anti-inflammatory/pro-inflammatory macrophages) was higher for Cur-loaded NPs than for free Cur. Our approach highlights the potential of a simple-by-design strategy in expanding the scope of polymeric NPs in drug delivery.

Bone intrinsic material and compositional properties in postmenopausal women diagnosed with long-term Type-1 diabetes

The incidence of diabetes mellitus and the associated complications are growing worldwide, affecting the patients' quality of life and exerting a considerable burden on health systems. Yet, the increase in fracture risk in type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients is not fully captured by bone mineral density (BMD), leading to the hypothesis that alterations in bone quality are responsible for the increased risk. Material/compositional properties are important aspects of bone quality, yet information on human bone material/compositional properties in T1D is rather sparse. The purpose of the present study is to measure both the intrinsic material behaviour by nanoindentation, and material compositional properties by Raman spectroscopy as a function of tissue age and microanatomical location (cement lines) in bone tissue from iliac crest biopsies from postmenopausal women diagnosed with long-term T1D (N = 8), and appropriate sex-, age-, BMD- and clinically-matched controls (postmenopausal women; N = 5). The results suggest elevation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) content in the T1D and show significant differences in mineral maturity / crystallinity (MMC) and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content between the T1D and control groups. Furthermore, both hardness and modulus by nanoindentation are greater in T1D. These data suggest a significant deterioration of material strength properties (toughness) and compositional properties in T1D compared with controls.

Genetic interaction in the association between oxidative stress and diabetes in the Spanish population

Oxidative stress (OS) is a relevant intermediate mechanism involved in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D) development. To date, the interaction between OS parameters and variations in genes related to T2D has not been analyzed.

AIMS

To study the genetic interaction of genes potentially related to OS levels (redox homeostasis, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, endoplasmic stress response, dyslipidemia, obesity and metal transport) and OS and T2D risk in a general population from Spain (the Hortega Study) in relation to the risk of suffering from T2D.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One thousand five hundred and two adults from the University Hospital Rio Hortega area were studied and 900 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 272 candidate genes were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were no differences in OS levels between cases and controls. Some polymorphisms were associated with T2D and with OS levels. Significant interactions were observed between OS levels and two polymorphisms in relation to T2D presence: rs196904 (ERN1 gene) and rs2410718 (COX7C gene); and between OS levels and haplotypes of the genes: SP2, HFF1A, ILI8R1, EIF2AK2, TXNRD2, PPARA, NDUFS2 and ERN1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that genetic variations of the studied genes are associated with OS levels and that their interaction with OS parameters may contribute to the risk of developing T2D in the Spanish general population. These data support the importance of analyzing the influence of OS levels and their interaction with genetic variations in order to establish their real impact in T2D risk. Further studies are required to identify the real relevance of interactions between genetic variations and OS levels and the mechanisms involved in them.

Phytochemical Properties of Croton gratissimus Burch (Lavender Croton) Herbal Tea and Its Protective Effect against Iron-Induced Oxidative Hepatic Injury

Oxidative stress plays a vital role in the pathogenesis and progression of various liver diseases. Traditional medicinal herbs have been used worldwide for the treatment of chronic liver diseases due to their high phytochemical constituents. The present study investigated the phytochemical properties of Croton gratissimus (lavender croton) leaf herbal tea and its hepatoprotective effect on oxidative injury in Chang liver cells, using an in vitro and in silico approach. C. gratissimus herbal infusion was screened for total phenolic and total flavonoid contents as well as in vitro antioxidant capacity using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) methods. Oxidative hepatic injury was induced by incubating 0.007 M FeSO4 with Chang liver cells which has been initially incubated with or without different concentrations (15-240 μg/mL) of C. gratissimus infusion or the standard antioxidants (Gallic acid and ascorbic acid). C. gratissimus displayed significantly high scavenging activity and ferric reducing capacity following DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively. It had no cytotoxic effect on Chang liver cells. C. gratissimus also significantly elevated the level of hepatic reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activities as well as suppressed the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in oxidative hepatic injury. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of the herbal tea revealed the presence of 8-prenylnaringenin, flavonol 3-O-D-galactoside, caffeine, spirasine I, hypericin, pheophorbide-a, and 4-methylumbelliferone glucuronide. In silico oral toxicity prediction of the identified phytochemicals revealed no potential hepatotoxicity. Molecular docking revealed potent molecular interactions of the phytochemicals with SOD and catalase. The results suggest the hepatoprotective and antioxidative potentials of C. gratissimus herbal tea against oxidative hepatic injury.

Heterocyclic chalcone (E)-1-(2-hydroxy-3,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)-3-(thiophen-2-yl) prop-2-en-1-one derived from a natural product with antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic effect in adult zebrafish

Diabetes is a disease linked to pathologies, such as chronic inflammation, neuropathy, and pain. The synthesis by the Claisen-Schmidt condensation reaction aims to obtain medium to high yield chalconic derivatives. Studies for the synthesis of new chalcone molecules aim at the structural manipulation of aromatic rings, as well as the replacement of rings by heterocycles, and combination through chemical reactions of synthesized structures with other molecules, in order to enhance biological activity. A chalcone was synthesized and evaluated for its antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic effect in adult zebrafish. In addition to reducing nociceptive behavior, chalcone (40 mg/kg) reversed post-treatment-induced acute and chronic hyperglycemia and reduced carrageenan-induced abdominal edema in zebrafish. It also showed an inhibitory effect on NO production in J774A.1 cells. When compared with the control groups, the oxidative stress generated after chronic hyperglycemia and after induction of abdominal edema was significantly reduced by chalcone. Molecular docking simulations of chalcone with Cox -1, Cox-2, and TRPA1 channel enzymes were performed and indicated that chalcone has a higher affinity for the COX-1 enzyme and 4 interactions with the TRPA1 channel. Chalcone also showed good pharmacokinetic properties as assessed by ADMET.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-023-03696-8.

Low Muscle Mass Is Associated with Poorer Glycemic Control and Higher Oxidative Stress in Older Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Body composition changes that occur during aging, such as loss of lean mass, are unfavorable at metabolic level and they can explain, in part, the appearance of certain age-associated diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Separately, T2D is associated with an increase in oxidative stress (OS) which negatively affects skeletal muscle. Our aim was to study the differences in clinical and nutritional parameters, disease control, and OS in a cohort of older patients with T2D classified according to the amount of lean mass they had. We included 100 adults older than 65 years with T2D. We found that women with low fat-free mass and muscle mass have worse T2D metabolic control. Moreover, the patients with a low percentile of muscle mass present a high value of OS. The study shows that the presence of low lean mass (LM) in the geriatric population diagnosed with T2D is associated with poorer glycemic control and greater OS.

Mitral Annular Calcification and Thromboembolic Risk

Thromboembolic (TE) risk scores used for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients do not include mitral annular calcification (MAC) as a potential indicator of vascular disease. This research evaluated the correlation between MAC and TE risk scores (CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc). We compared TE risk score values and clinical and echocardiographic data in patients with and without MAC. We included, prospectively, 103 patients: 40.8% with AF, 83.5% with hypertension, 30.1% with type II diabetes mellitus, 79.6% with chronic heart failure, and 7.8% with a history of stroke. We identified MAC in 50.5% of patients. The mean CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores were 2.56 ± 1.135 and 4.57 ± 1.61, respectively. In MAC patients, both scores tended to increase significantly compared with the control (2.88 ± 1.114 versus 2.24 ± 1.06, p = 0.005, and 5.21 ± 1.51 versus 3.92 ± 1.46, p < 0.001, respectively). The left ventricular ejection fraction negatively correlated with the presence of MAC (r = -0.254, p = 0.01). The presence of MAC was a risk factor for vascular disease (OR = 2.47, χ² = 34.32, p < 0001). Conclusions: The presence of MAC is associated with greater TE risk scores and a higher risk of vascular disease. It appears that adding MAC as a vascular disease parameter to TE risk scores may have benefits for patients by improving their predictive value.