Nanodelivery of Natural Antioxidants: An Anti-aging Perspective

Theoretical evaluation of Cleome species' bioactive compounds and therapeutic potential: A literature review

The species of Cleome genus are taxonomically included in the family of Cleomaceae and in the order of Brassicales, representing flowering plants with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Phytochemical screening experiments revealed that Cleome species contain a wide range of beneficial bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, essential oils, fatty acids, flavonoids, terpenes, sterols, and anthocyanins, indicating a therapeutic potential. Furthermore, due to the presence of these phytocompounds, there are various plant species in this genus that have demonstrated a wide range of genotypic, chemo typic, and biological activity in several ecological settings around the world. The potential biological actions and pharmacological effects, such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, antidepressant, antibacterial, anti-arthritic, anticancer, and hepatoprotective are closely related to the active substances contained in various parts of the plants. By centralizing medical data provided by the scientific literature, we offer in the present work a comprehensive perspective on a wide range of bioactive compounds identified from diverse Cleome species, emphasizing the correlation of natural active substances with potential pharmacological activities that can contribute to the improvement of therapeutic management for a range of pathologies. In addition, this review suggests future research perspectives to improve the use of phytochemicals contained in the species of Cleome genus, both in terms of increasing therapeutic efficacy and safety profiles, but also in terms of identifying a possible new pharmacological effect.

Cerium oxide decorated 5-fluorouracil loaded chitosan nanoparticles for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in the mammalian system in both normal and pathological conditions. Hence, this work prepared and characterized the ROS responsive cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂ NPs) decorated 5-fluorouracil (5FU) loaded chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (CS-5FU NPs) for enhanced anticancer activity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2 cells). CeO₂ NPs decorated CS-5FU NPs were found to be spherical in shape and black dense aggregated particles sized 200 nm. The functional properties and cubic crystalline structure of CeO₂ NPs were studied by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, respectively. Further, CS-5FU-CeO₂ NPs attenuated the 2,2'-Azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH) induced ROS formation in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (NIH3T3 cells) while enhancing apoptotic cell death in HepG2 cells by controlled delivery of 5FU. Furthermore, CS-5FU-CeO₂ NPs have not exhibited toxicity to red blood cells (RBCs) and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Hence, this work concluded that CeO₂ NPs decorated CS-5FU NPs synergistically enhanced anticancer activity in HepG2 cells through the regulation of ROS.

The potential biological effects of quercetin based on pharmacokinetics and multi-targeted mechanism in vivo

Quercetin is a plant-derived polyphenol flavonoid that has been proven to be effective for many diseases. However, the mechanism and in vivo metabolism of quercetin remains to be clarified. It achieves a wide range of biological effects through various metabolites, gut microbiota and its metabolites, systemic mediators produced by inflammation and oxidation, as well as by multiple mechanisms. The all-round disease treatment of quercetin is achieved through the organic combination of multiple channels. Therefore, this article clarifies the metabolic process of quercetin in the body, and explores the new pattern of action of quercetin in the treatment of diseases.

Synthesis and In Vitro Characterization of Ascorbyl Palmitate-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

Antitumor applications of ascorbic acid (AA) and its oxidized form dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) can be quite challenging due to their instability and sensitivity to degradation in aqueous media. To overcome this obstacle, we have synthesized solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with ascorbyl palmitate (SLN-AP) with variations in proportions of the polymer Pluronic F-68. SLNs were synthesized using the hot homogenization method, characterized by measuring the particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential and visualized by TEM. To investigate the cellular uptake of the SLN, we have incorporated coumarin-6 into the same SLN formulation and followed their successful uptake for 48 h. We have tested the cytotoxicity of the SLN formulations and free ascorbate forms, AA and DHA, on HEK 293 and U2OS cell lines by MTT assay. The SLN-AP in both formulations have a cytotoxic effect at lower concentrations when compared to ascorbate applied the form of AA or DHA. Better selectivity for targeting tumor cell line was observed with 3% Pluronic F-68. The antioxidative effect of the SLN-AP was observed as early as 1 h after the treatment with a small dose of ascorbate applied (5 µM). SLN-AP formulation with 3% Pluronic F-68 needs to be further optimized as an ascorbate carrier due to its intrinsic cytotoxicity.

SIRT1 Is Involved in the Neuroprotection of Pterostilbene Against Amyloid β 25-35-Induced Cognitive Deficits in Mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) deposits and neurofibrillary tangles. Pterostilbene (PTE), a bioactive component mainly in blueberries, is found to have neuroprotective properties. However, the specific underlying mechanisms of PTE in protecting AD remain unclear. Herein, we explored its effects on Aβ25-35-induced neuronal damage in vivo and in vitro and further compared the roles with its structural analog resveratrol (RES) in improving learning-memory deficits. We found that intragastric administration of PTE (40 mg/kg) displayed more effective neuroprotection on Aβ25-35-induced cognitive dysfunction assessed using the novel object test, Y-maze test, and Morris water maze test. Then, we found that PTE improved neuronal plasticity and alleviated neuronal loss both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, PTE upregulated the expression of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and inhibited mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in the Aβ25-35-treated group. However, SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 reversed the neuroprotection and induced a drop in mitochondrial membrane potential in PTE-treated primary cortical neurons. Our data suggest that PTE's enhancing learning-memory ability and improving neuroplasticity might be related to inhibiting mitochondria-dependent apoptosis via the antioxidant effect regulated by SIRT1/Nrf2 in AD.

Benefits and Implications of Resveratrol Supplementation on Microbiota Modulations: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that has been shown to possess many applications in different fields of medicine. This systematic review has drawn attention to the axis between resveratrol and human microbiota, which plays a key role in maintaining an adequate immune response that can lead to different diseases when compromised. Resveratrol can also be an asset in new technologies, such as gene therapy. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched to find papers that matched our topic dating from 1 January 2017 up to 18 January 2022, with English-language restriction using the following Boolean keywords: ("resveratrol" AND "microbio*"). Eighteen studies were included as relevant papers matching the purpose of our investigation. Immune response, prevention of thrombotic complications, microbiota, gene therapy, and bone regeneration were retrieved as the main topics. The analyzed studies mostly involved resveratrol supplementation and its effects on human microbiota by trials in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo. The beneficial activity of resveratrol is evident by analyzing the changes in the host's genetic expression and the gastrointestinal microbial community with its administration. The possibility of identifying individual microbial families may allow to tailor therapeutic plans with targeted polyphenolic diets when associated with microbial dysbiosis, such as inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, degenerative diseases, tumors, obesity, diabetes, bone tissue regeneration, and metabolic syndrome.

Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG): New Therapeutic Perspectives for Neuroprotection, Aging, and Neuroinflammation for the Modern Age

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are the two most common forms of neurodegenerative diseases. The exact etiology of these disorders is not well known; however, environmental, molecular, and genetic influences play a major role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Using Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as the archetype, the pathological findings include the aggregation of Amyloid Beta (Aβ) peptides, mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic degradation caused by inflammation, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cerebrovascular dysregulation. This review highlights the neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective role of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): the medicinal component of green tea, a known nutraceutical that has shown promise in modulating AD progression due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging abilities. This report also re-examines the current literature and provides innovative approaches for EGCG to be used as a preventive measure to alleviate AD and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Review on Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Materials: Bioimaging, Biosensing, Drug Delivery, Tissue Engineering, Antimicrobial, and Agro-Food Applications

In the last few decades, the vast potential of nanomaterials for biomedical and healthcare applications has been extensively investigated. Several case studies demonstrated that nanomaterials can offer solutions to the current challenges of raw materials in the biomedical and healthcare fields. This review describes the different nanoparticles and nanostructured material synthesis approaches and presents some emerging biomedical, healthcare, and agro-food applications. This review focuses on various nanomaterial types (e.g., spherical, nanorods, nanotubes, nanosheets, nanofibers, core-shell, and mesoporous) that can be synthesized from different raw materials and their emerging applications in bioimaging, biosensing, drug delivery, tissue engineering, antimicrobial, and agro-foods. Depending on their morphology (e.g., size, aspect ratio, geometry, porosity), nanomaterials can be used as formulation modifiers, moisturizers, nanofillers, additives, membranes, and films. As toxicological assessment depends on sizes and morphologies, stringent regulation is needed from the testing of efficient nanomaterials dosages. The challenges and perspectives for an industrial breakthrough of nanomaterials are related to the optimization of production and processing conditions.

Curcuma longa L. Prevents the Loss of β-Tubulin in the Brain and Maintains Healthy Aging in Drosophila melanogaster

Loss of tubulin is associated with neurodegeneration and brain aging. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) has frequently been employed as a spice in curry and traditional medications in the Indian subcontinent to attain longevity and better cognitive performance. We aimed to evaluate the unelucidated mechanism of how turmeric protects the brain to be an anti-aging agent. D. melanogaster was cultured on a regular diet and turmeric-supplemented diet. β-tubulin level and physiological traits including survivability, locomotor activity, fertility, tolerance to oxidative stress, and eye health were analyzed. Turmeric showed a hormetic effect, and 0.5% turmeric was the optimal dose in preventing aging. β-tubulin protein level was decreased in the brain of D. melanogaster upon aging, while a 0.5% turmeric-supplemented diet predominantly prevented this aging-induced loss of β-tubulin and degeneration of physiological traits as well as improved β-tubulin synthesis in the brain of D. melanogaster early to mid-age. The higher concentration (≥ 1%) of turmeric-supplemented diet decreased the β-tubulin level and degenerated many of the physiological traits of D. melanogaster. The turmeric concentration-dependent increase and decrease of β-tubulin level were consistent with the increment and decrement data obtained from the evaluated physiological traits. This correlation demonstrated that turmeric targets β-tubulin and has both beneficial and detrimental effects that depend on the concentration of turmeric. The findings of this study concluded that an optimal dosage of turmeric could maintain a healthy neuron and thus healthy aging, by preventing the loss and increasing the level of β-tubulin in the brain.

Marine Collagen: A Promising Biomaterial for Wound Healing, Skin Anti-Aging, and Bone Regeneration

Marine organisms harbor numerous bioactive substances that can be utilized in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Scientific research on various applications of collagen extracted from these organisms has become increasingly prevalent. Marine collagen can be used as a biomaterial because it is water soluble, metabolically compatible, and highly accessible. Upon review of the literature, it is evident that marine collagen is a versatile compound capable of healing skin injuries of varying severity, as well as delaying the natural human aging process. From in vitro to in vivo experiments, collagen has demonstrated its ability to invoke keratinocyte and fibroblast migration as well as vascularization of the skin. Additionally, marine collagen and derivatives have proven beneficial and useful for both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis prevention and treatment. Other bone-related diseases may also be targeted by collagen, as it is capable of increasing bone mineral density, mineral deposition, and importantly, osteoblast maturation and proliferation. In this review, we demonstrate the advantages of marine collagen over land animal sources and the biomedical applications of marine collagen related to bone and skin damage. Finally, some limitations of marine collagen are briefly discussed.

Antioxidant for Neurological Diseases and Neurotrauma and Bioengineering Approaches

Antioxidants are a class of molecules with an innate affinity to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are known to cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been associated with a wide range of diseases mediated by physiological damage to the cells. ROS play both beneficial and detrimental roles in human physiology depending on their overall concentration. ROS are an inevitable byproduct of the normal functioning of cells, which are produced as a result of the mitochondrial respiration process. Since the establishment of the detrimental effect of oxidative stress in neurological disorders and neurotrauma, there has been growing interest in exploring antioxidants to rescue remaining or surviving cells and reverse the neurological damage. In this review, we present the survey of different antioxidants studied in neurological applications including neurotrauma. We also delve into bioengineering approaches developed to deliver antioxidants to improve their cellular uptake in neurological applications.

From process effluents to intestinal health promotion: Developing biopolymer-whey liposomes loaded with gingerol to heal intestinal wounds and neutralize oxidative stress

As a sustainable strategy to valorize the main effluent of the cheese industry and potent environmental pollutant, whey, several biopolymer-whey vesicles loaded with gingerol were tailored for counteracting intestinal oxidative stress and boosting wound healing. An eco-friendly method was used to combine whey with four different water-dispersible biopolymers (xanthan gum, tragacanth, Arabic gum and sodium alginate), phospholipid and a natural antioxidant (gingerol). The results of cryogenic transmission microscopy and dynamic light scattering indicated that the vesicles were mostly unilamellar and small in size (∼100 nm) with low polydispersity index, high negative zeta potential and ability to entrap a high amount of gingerol (up to 94%). The vesicles could maintain their structures in acidic and neutral media and Turbiscan® technology confirmed their stability during the storage. Vesicles prepared with whey and tragacanth exhibited the highest capability to protect intestinal cells from damages induced by hydrogen peroxide. When Arabic and tragacanth gums were added to the whey vesicles, the closure rate of the scratched area was fast and no trace of the wound was observed after 72 h of treatment. These promising findings could open a new horizon in the application of whey in nanomedicine for the treatment of intestinal damages.

Bioactive Compounds and Nanodelivery Perspectives for Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

Bioactive compounds are comprised of small quantities of extra nutritional constituents providing both health benefits and enhanced nutritional value, based on their ability to modulate one or more metabolic processes. Plant-based diets are being thoroughly researched for their cardiovascular properties and effectiveness against cancer. Flavonoids, phytoestrogens, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids are some of the bioactive compounds that aim to work in prevention and treating the cardiovascular disease in a systemic manner, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart failure. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are the most important characteristics that make them favorable candidates for CVDs treatment. However, their low water solubility and stability results in low bioavailability, limited accessibility, and poor absorption. The oral delivery of bioactive compounds is constrained due to physiological barriers such as the pH, mucus layer, gastrointestinal enzymes, epithelium, etc. The present review aims to revise the main bioactive compounds with a significant role in CVDs in terms of preventive, diagnostic, and treatment measures. The advantages of nanoformulations and novel multifunctional nanomaterials development are described in order to overcome multiple obstacles, including the physiological ones, by summarizing the most recent preclinical data and clinical trials reported in the literature. Nanotechnologies will open a new window in the area of CVDs with the opportunity to achieve effective treatment, better prognosis, and less adverse effects on non-target tissues.

Nanoantioxidants: Pioneer Types, Advantages, Limitations, and Future Insights

Free radicals are generated as byproducts of normal metabolic processes as well as due to exposure to several environmental pollutants. They are highly reactive species, causing cellular damage and are associated with a plethora of oxidative stress-related diseases and disorders. Antioxidants can control autoxidation by interfering with free radical propagation or inhibiting free radical formation, reducing oxidative stress, improving immune function, and increasing health longevity. Antioxidant functionalized metal nanoparticles, transition metal oxides, and nanocomposites have been identified as potent nanoantioxidants. They can be formulated in monometallic, bimetallic, and multi-metallic combinations via chemical and green synthesis techniques. The intrinsic antioxidant properties of nanomaterials are dependent on their tunable configuration, physico-chemical properties, crystallinity, surface charge, particle size, surface-to-volume ratio, and surface coating. Nanoantioxidants have several advantages over conventional antioxidants, involving increased bioavailability, controlled release, and targeted delivery to the site of action. This review emphasizes the most pioneering types of nanoantioxidants such as nanoceria, silica nanoparticles, polydopamine nanoparticles, and nanocomposite-, polysaccharide-, and protein-based nanoantioxidants. This review overviews the antioxidant potential of biologically synthesized nanomaterials, which have emerged as significant alternatives due to their biocompatibility and high stability. The promising nanoencapsulation nanosystems such as solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and liposome nanoparticles are highlighted. The advantages, limitations, and future insights of nanoantioxidant applications are discussed.

Modulation of SOD3 Levels Is Detrimental to Retinal Homeostasis

Retinal oxidative stress is a common secondary feature of many retinal diseases. Though it may not be the initial insult, it is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of highly prevalent retinal dystrophic diseases like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa. We explored the role of superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) in retinal homeostasis since SOD3 protects the extracellular matrix (ECM) from oxidative injury. We show that SOD3 is mainly extracellularly localized and is upregulated as a result of environmental and pathogenic stress. Ablation of SOD3 resulted in reduced functional electroretinographic responses and number of photoreceptors, which is exacerbated with age. By contrast, overexpression showed increased electroretinographic responses and increased number of photoreceptors at young ages, but appears deleterious as the animal ages, as determined from the associated functional decline. Our exploration shows that SOD3 is vital to retinal homeostasis but its levels are tightly regulated. This suggests that SOD3 augmentation to combat oxidative stress during retinal degenerative changes may only be effective in the short-term.

Benefits and challenges of nanomaterials in assisted reproductive technologies

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) have contributed to preserve fertility in humans and to increase multiplication of genetically superior animals. Despite being highly practiced worldwide, ART presents some challenges, especially because gametes and embryos are kept in vitro for a variable period of time, and the oxidative stress in vitro can have negative impact on oocyte competence and embryo development. Nanotechnology needs to be considered to help overcome some of those impairments, since it can provide strategies to deliver antioxidants and hormones to gametes and embryos in vitro. The application of nanotechnology to ART can allow the development of new protocols using nanomaterials to improve in vitro oocyte competence and embryo production. This review discusses the applicability of nanomaterials to improve sperm selection, to deliver antioxidants and hormones to preantral follicles, oocytes, and embryos in vitro, as well as the concerns about using nanotechnology in ART.

Impacting the Remedial Potential of Nano Delivery-Based Flavonoids for Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer persists as a diffuse source of cancer despite persistent detection and treatment. Flavonoids, a type of polyphenol, appear to be a productive option in the treatment of breast cancer, because of their capacity to regulate the tumor related functions of class of compounds. Plant polyphenols are flavonoids that appear to exhibit properties which are beneficial for breast cancer therapy. Numerous epidemiologic studies have been performed on the dynamic effect of plant polyphenols in the prevention of breast cancer. There are also subclasses of flavonoids that have antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activity. These can regulate the scavenging activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which help in cell cycle arrest and suppress the uncontrolled division of cancer cells. Numerous studies have also been performed at the population level, one of which reported a connection between cancer risk and intake of dietary flavonoids. Breast cancer appears to show intertumoral heterogeneity with estrogen receptor positive and negative cells. This review describes breast cancer, its various factors, and the function of flavonoids in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, namely, how flavonoids and their subtypes are used in treatment. This review proposes that cancer risk can be reduced, and that cancer can be even cured by improving dietary intake. A large number of studies also suggested that the intake of fruit and vegetables is associated with reduced breast cancer and paper also includes the role and the use of nanodelivery of flavonoids in the healing of breast cancer. In addition, the therapeutic potential of orally administered phyto-bioactive compounds (PBCs) is narrowed because of poor stability and oral bioavailability of compounds in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and solubility also affects bioavailability. In recent years, creative nanotechnology-based approaches have been advised to enhance the activity of PBCs. Nanotechnology also offers the potential to become aware of disease at earlier stages, such as the detection of hidden or unconcealed metastasis colonies in patients diagnosed with lung, colon, prostate, ovarian, and breast cancer. However, nanoformulation-related effects and safety must not be overlooked. This review gives a brief discussion of nanoformulations and the effect of nanotechnology on herbal drugs.

Green synthesis of magnesium nanoparticles mediated from Rosa floribunda charisma extract and its antioxidant, antiaging and antibiofilm activities

Flower based nanoparticles has gained a special attention as a new sustainable eco-friendly avenue. Rosa floribunda charisma belongs to modern roses with bright yellow, red flowers with marvellous rose scent. Different methods were used for the extraction of its floral scent such as hexane, microwave, and solid-phase micro-extraction. The latter was the most efficient method for the extraction of phenyl ethyl alcohol, the unique scent of roses. In the current study, magnesium nanoparticles (RcNps) have been synthesized using Rosa floribunda charisma petals that have privileges beyond chemical and physical routs. RcNps formation was confirmed using UV-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), High Resolution-Transmission Electron Microscope (HR-TEM), Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray Diffractometer (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). HR-TEM images detected the polyhedral shape of RcNps with a diverse size ranged within 35.25-55.14 nm. The resulting RcNps exhibited a high radical scavenging activity illustrated by inhibition of superoxide, nitric oxide, hydroxyl radical and xanthine oxidase by by IC50 values 26.2, 52.9, 31.9 and 15.9 µg/ml respectively as compared to ascorbic acid. Furthermore, RcNps at concentration of 100 µg/ml significantly reduced xanthine oxidase activity (15.9 ± 0.61 µg/ml) compared with ascorbic acid (12.80 ± 0.32 µg/ml) with p < 0.05. Moreover, RcNps showed an excellent antiaging activity demonstrated by inhibition of collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase and tyrosinase enzymes in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 58.7 ± 1.66 µg/ml, 82.5 ± 2.93 µg/ml, 191.4 ± 5.68 µg/ml and 158.6 ± 5.20 µg/ml as compared to EGCG respectively. RcNps also, exhibited a promising antibacterial activity against three skin pathogens delineate a significant threat to a public health, as Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with MIC of 15.63, 7.81, 31.25 µg/ml as compared to ciprofloxacin (7.81, 3.9 and 15.63 µg/ml). Moreover, RcNps suppressed the formation of biofilms with minimum biofilm inhibitory concentrations 1.95, 1.95, 7.81 µg/ml against the fore mentioned strains, respectively. Overall, our findings indicate that Rosa floribunda nanoparticles could be used as a leading natural source in skin care cosmetic industry.

New approaches and procedures for cancer treatment: Current perspectives

Cancer is a global health problem responsible for one in six deaths worldwide. Treating cancer has been a highly complex process. Conventional treatment approaches, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, have been in use, while significant advances are being made in recent times, including stem cell therapy, targeted therapy, ablation therapy, nanoparticles, natural antioxidants, radionics, chemodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and ferroptosis-based therapy. Current methods in oncology focus on the development of safe and efficient cancer nanomedicines. Stem cell therapy has brought promising efficacy in regenerating and repairing diseased or damaged tissues by targeting both primary and metastatic cancer foci, and nanoparticles brought new diagnostic and therapeutic options. Targeted therapy possessed breakthrough potential inhibiting the growth and spread of specific cancer cells, causing less damage to healthy cells. Ablation therapy has emerged as a minimally invasive procedure that burns or freezes cancers without the need for open surgery. Natural antioxidants demonstrated potential tracking down free radicals and neutralizing their harmful effects thereby treating or preventing cancer. Several new technologies are currently under research in clinical trials, and some of them have already been approved. This review presented an update on recent advances and breakthroughs in cancer therapies.

Curcumin nanoformulations to combat aging-related diseases

Aging increases the susceptibility to a diverse set of diseases and disorders, including neurodegeneration, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Natural compounds are currently being explored as alternative or complementary agents to treat or prevent aging-related malfunctions. Curcumin, a phytochemical isolated from the spice turmeric, has garnered great interest in recent years. With anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and other physiological activities, curcumin has great potential for health applications. However, the benefits of curcumin are restricted by its low bioavailability and stability in biological systems. Curcumin nanoformulations, or nano-curcumin, may overcome these limitations. This review discusses different forms of nano-curcumin that have been evaluated in vitro and in vivo to treat or prevent aging-associated health impairments. We describe current barriers for the routine use of curcumin nanoformulations in the clinic. Our review highlights outstanding questions and future work that is needed to ensure nano-curcumin is efficient and safe to lessen the burden of aging-related health problems.

Enhancement of Biological and Pharmacological Properties of an Encapsulated Polyphenol: Curcumin

There is a dearth of natural remedies available for the treatment of an increasing number of diseases facing mankind. Natural products may provide an opportunity to produce formulations and therapeutic solutions to address this shortage. Curcumin (CUR), diferuloylmethane; I,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione is the major pigment in turmeric powder which has been reported to exhibit a number of health benefits including, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. In this review, the authors attempt to highlight the biological and pharmacological properties of CUR in addition to emphasizing aspects relating to the biosynthesis, encapsulation and therapeutic effects of the compound. The information contained in this review was generated by considering published information in which evidence of enhanced biological and pharmacological properties of nano-encapsulated CUR was reported. CUR has contributed to a significant improvement in melanoma, breast, lung, gastro-intestinal, and genito-urinary cancer therapy. We highlight the impact of nano-encapsulated CUR for efficient inhibition of cell proliferation, even at low concentrations compared to the free CUR when considering anti-proliferation. Furthermore nano-encapsulated CUR exhibited bioactive properties, exerted cytotoxic and anti-oxidant effects by acting on endogenous and cholinergic anti-oxidant systems. CUR was reported to block Hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry into hepatic cells, inhibit MRSA proliferation, enhance wound healing and reduce bacterial load. Nano-encapsulated CUR has also shown bioactive properties when acting on antioxidant systems (endogenous and cholinergic). Future research is necessary and must focus on investigation of encapsulated CUR nano-particles in different models of human pathology.

Mitochondrial nanomedicine: Subcellular organelle-specific delivery of molecular medicines

As mitochondria network together to act as the master sensors and effectors of apoptosis, ATP production, reactive oxygen species management, mitophagy/autophagy, and homeostasis; this organelle is an ideal target for pharmaceutical manipulation. Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to many diseases, for example, β-amyloid has been shown to interfere with mitochondrial protein import and induce apoptosis in Alzheimer's Disease while some forms of Parkinson's Disease are associated with dysfunctional mitochondrial PINK1 and Parkin proteins. Mitochondrial medicine has applications in the treatment of an array of pathologies from cancer to cardiovascular disease. A challenge of mitochondrial medicine is directing therapies to a subcellular target. Nanotechnology based approaches combined with mitochondrial targeting strategies can greatly improve the clinical translation and effectiveness of mitochondrial medicine. This review discusses mitochondrial drug delivery approaches and applications of mitochondrial nanomedicines. Nanomedicine approaches have the potential to drive the success of mitochondrial therapies into the clinic.

Antioxidant effect of ethanolic onion (Allium cepa) husk extract in ageing rats

The role of natural antioxidants in preventing of age-relating diseases is evident. The vegetable industry generates a large amount of waste, which is a good source of antioxidants.

The aim of the study was the investigation of the antioxidant effect of long-term consumption of ethanolic yellow onion husk extract in ageing laboratory rodents.

Twenty male Wistar albino rats were divided randomly into two groups (n = 10): a control group and an experimental group that received ethanolic yellow onion husk extract (2 mL/rat diluted with distilled water; activity of 4.44 µmol-equiv. quercetin) for 188 days. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays were used to determine the total antioxidant capacity of the extract, which amounted to 941.4 ± 32.7 µmol equiv. Trolox/g raw material and 167.4 ± 16.4 µmol-equiv. quercetin/g raw material, respectively. Oral intake of the onion husk extract affected the indicators of the antioxidant system of the liver and the brain but not of the blood and plasma, mainly due to elevations in the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the liver by 44.4% and 79.1%, respectively, and in the brain by three-fold and 79.1%, respectively.

The availability, cheapness and high antioxidant potential of onion waste qualifies it a good source of functional ingredients and bioactive substances applicable in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

An Antioxidant Nanoparticle Enhances Exercise Performance in Rat High-intensity Running Models

Although the adverse effects of excessively generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the body during aerobic exercise have been debated, there are few reports on the remarkable effects of the application of conventional antioxidants on exercise performance. The conventional antioxidants could not enhance exercise performance due to their rapid excretion from the body and serious adverse effects on the cellular respiratory system. In this study, impact of the original antioxidant self-assembling nanoparticle, redox-active nanoparticle (RNP), is investigated on the exercise performance of rats during running experiments. With an increase in the dose of the administered RNP, the all-out time of the rat running extends in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, with an increase in the dose of the low-molecular-weight (LMW) antioxidant, the all-out running time of the rats decreases. The control group and LMW antioxidant treated group decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) and increase oxidative stress after running. However, the RNP group maintains a similar RBC level and oxidative stress as that of the sedentary group. The results suggest that RNP, which shows long-blood circulation without disturbance of mitohormesis, effectively removes ROS from the bloodstream to suppresses RBC oxidative stress and damage, thus improving exercise performance.

Biochemical Profiling for Antioxidant and Therapeutic Potential of Pakistani Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genetic Resource

In Pakistan, chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) are the largest grown legume crops, especially in desert areas. Along with an excellent source of nutrition, chickpea seeds have discernible medicinal and antioxidant characteristics. The diverse set of 90 chickpea genotypes (66 desi and 24 kabuli) were collected from different research zones in Pakistan, and seed flour was used for biochemical profiling. Genotypes were significantly different (Tukey HSD test, P < 0.05) for the traits under investigation. In non-enzymatic antioxidants, highest seed total phenolic contents (TPC) (34725 ± 275 μM/g s. wt.) was found in CM-98 (desi), ascorbic acid (AsA) (69.23 ± 2.25 μg/g s. wt.) in WH-3 (desi), and total flavonoid content (TFC) (394.98 ± 13.06 μg/mL sample) was detected in WH-11 (desi). In the class of enzymatic antioxidants, the highest seed ascorbate peroxidase (APX) (1680 ± 40 Units/g s. wt.) was detected in Tamman-2013 (kabuli), peroxidases (POD) (2564.10 ± 233.10 Units/g s. wt.) activity in CM1235/08 (desi), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (279.76 ± 50 Units/g s. wt.) was detected in CH24/11 (desi). Highest seed catalase activity (CAT) (893 ± 50 Units/g s. wt.) and proline content (272.50 ± 20.82 μg/g s. wt.) was detected in an ICC-4951 (desi). In hydrolytic enzymes, the highest activity of esterase (37.05 μM/min/g s. wt) was found in, CH56/09(Kabuli), protease (11080 ± 10 Units/g s. wt.) in Karak-2 (desi), and α-amylase (213.02 ± 3.20 mg/g s. wt.) was observed in CH74/08 (kabuli). In other biochemical parameters, the highest seed total oxidant status (TOS) (356 ± 17.50 μM/g s. wt.) was detected in CM3457/91 (desi); malondialdehyde (MDA) content (295.74 ± 3.097 uM/g s. wt.) was observed in CM-2008 (kabuli), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (8.36 ± 0.082 μM/g s. wt.) was found in CM-72 (desi). In case of pigment analysis, Sheenghar-2000 (desi) depicted highest lycopene (12.579 ± 0.313 μg/g s. wt.) and total carotenoids (58.430.23 ± 0.569 μg/g s. wt.) contents. For seed therapeutic potential, the highest seed α-amylase inhibition (82.33 ± 8.06%) was observed in CM-88 (desi), while WH-1, WH-6, and ICCV-96030 (desi) depicted the highest value for seed anti-inflammatory potential (78.88 ± 0.55%). Genotypes with the highest antioxidant and therapeutic potential can be utilized as a natural antioxidant source and in breeding programs aimed at improving these traits in new breeding lines.

Resveratrol and other Stilbenes: Effects on Dysregulated Gene Expression in Cancers and Novel Delivery Systems

Trans-resveratrol (RESV), pterostilbene, trans-piceid and trans-viniferins are bioactive stilbenes present in grapes and other plants. Several groups applied biotechnology to introduce their synthesis in plant crops. Biochemical interaction with enzymes, regulation of non-coding RNAs, and activation of signaling pathways and transcription factors are among the main effects described in literature. However, solubility in ethanol, short half-life, metabolism by gut bacteria, make the concentration responsible for the effects observed in cultured cells difficult to achieve. Derivatives obtained by synthesis, trans-resveratrol analogs and methoxylated stilbenes show to be more stable and allow the synthesis of bioactive compounds with higher bioavailability. However, changes in chemical structure may require testing for toxicity. Thus, the delivery of RESV and its natural analogs incorporated into liposomes or nanoparticles, is the best choice to ensure stability during administration and appropriate absorption. The application of RESV and its derivatives with anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity is presented with description of novel clinical trials.

Effect of citrus peels-supplemented diet on longevity, memory index, redox status, cholinergic and monoaminergic enzymes in Drosophila melanogaster model

This study sought to determine the life span promoting effecof orange (Citrus sinensis), tangerine (Citrus maxima) and grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peels in Drosophila melanogaster model. Flies (both gender, 3 to 5 days old) were divided into seven (7) groups (n = 5) containing 40 flies each; group I (control) flies were fed with basal diet, II-VII were flies were fed with basal diet containing 0.1 and 1.0% of tangerine peel (TP), orange peel (CP), and grapefruit peel (GP) respectively, for 14 days. Locomotor performance and memory index were assessed via negative geotaxis and aversive phototaxis suppression assays, respectively. Thereafter, the fly homogenates were assayed for activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO) and antioxidant enzymes as well as other indices of their redox. The results revealed that the citrus peels significantly improved longevity, locomotor performance, memory index, antioxidant status, and modulate cholinesterase and monoamine oxidase enzyme activities in treated flies when compared to the control. The results obtained suggest that the citrus peels offer potentials as dietary supplement with life span promoting properties in D. melanogaster model which could as well serve as a functional food additives. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Citrus peels, although often considered agro-wastes, are used as food supplements and food ingredents especially in production of candies, jams and custards. This study suggests the use of orange (Citrus sinensis), tangerine (Citrus maxima), and grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peels as dietary supplements which offers potential life span promoting properties.

The Impact of Oxidative Stress in Human Pathology: Focus on Gastrointestinal Disorders

Accumulating evidence shows that oxidative stress plays an essential role in the pathogenesis and progression of many diseases. The imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant systems has been extensively studied in pulmonary, neurodegenerative cardiovascular disorders; however, its contribution is still debated in gastrointestinal disorders. Evidence suggests that oxidative stress affects gastrointestinal motility in obesity, and post-infectious disorders by favoring the smooth muscle phenotypic switch toward a synthetic phenotype. The aim of this review is to gain insight into the role played by oxidative stress in gastrointestinal pathologies (GIT), and the involvement of ROS in the signaling underlying the muscular alterations of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). In addition, potential therapeutic strategies based on the use of antioxidants for the treatment of inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases are reviewed and discussed. Although substantial progress has been made in identifying new techniques capable of assessing the presence of oxidative stress in humans, the biochemical-molecular mechanisms underlying GIT mucosal disorders are not yet well defined. Therefore, further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms through which oxidative stress-related signaling can contribute to the alteration of the GIT mucosa in order to devise effective preventive and curative therapeutic strategies.

Natural Antioxidants Improve the Vulnerability of Cardiomyocytes and Vascular Endothelial Cells under Stress Conditions: A Focus on Mitochondrial Quality Control

Cardiovascular disease has become one of the main causes of human death. In addition, many cardiovascular diseases are accompanied by a series of irreversible damages that lead to organ and vascular complications. In recent years, the potential therapeutic strategy of natural antioxidants in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases through mitochondrial quality control has received extensive attention. Mitochondria are the main site of energy metabolism in eukaryotic cells, including myocardial and vascular endothelial cells. Mitochondrial quality control processes ensure normal activities of mitochondria and cells by maintaining stable mitochondrial quantity and quality, thus protecting myocardial and endothelial cells against stress. Various stresses can affect mitochondrial morphology and function. Natural antioxidants extracted from plants and natural medicines are becoming increasingly common in the clinical treatment of diseases, especially in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Natural antioxidants can effectively protect myocardial and endothelial cells from stress-induced injury by regulating mitochondrial quality control, and their safety and effectiveness have been preliminarily verified. This review summarises the damage mechanisms of various stresses in cardiomyocytes and vascular endothelial cells and the mechanisms of natural antioxidants in improving the vulnerability of these cell types to stress by regulating mitochondrial quality control. This review is aimed at paving the way for novel treatments for cardiovascular diseases and the development of natural antioxidant drugs.

Anti-rheumatic effect of quercetin and recent developments in nano formulation

Quercetin is a potential anti-rheumatoid drug. Nano formulation strategies could improve its solubility and efficacy.

Powerful Plant Antioxidants: A New Biosustainable Approach to the Production of Rosmarinic Acid

Modern lifestyle factors, such as physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and exposure to environmental pollution, induce excessive generation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body. These by-products of oxygen metabolism play a key role in the development of various human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart failure, brain damage, muscle problems, premature aging, eye injuries, and a weakened immune system. Synthetic and natural antioxidants, which act as free radical scavengers, are widely used in the food and beverage industries. The toxicity and carcinogenic effects of some synthetic antioxidants have generated interest in natural alternatives, especially plant-derived polyphenols (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, tannins, coumarins, lignins, lignans, quinines, curcuminoids, chalcones, and essential oil terpenoids). This review focuses on the well-known phenolic antioxidant rosmarinic acid (RA), an ester of caffeic acid and (R)-(+)-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) lactic acid, describing its wide distribution in thirty-nine plant families and the potential productivity of plant sources. A botanical and phytochemical description is provided of a new rich source of RA, Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad (Lamiaceae). Recently reported approaches to the biotechnological production of RA are summarized, highlighting the establishment of cell suspension cultures of S. khuzistanica as an RA chemical biofactory.

Repurposing drugs to fight aging: The difficult path from bench to bedside

The steady rise in life expectancy occurred across all developed countries during the last century. This demographic trend is, however, not accompanied by the same healthspan extension. This is since aging is the main risk factor for all age-associated pathological conditions. Therefore, slowing the rate of aging is suggested to be more efficient in preventing or delaying age-related diseases than treat them one by one, which is the common approach in a current pharmacological disease-oriented paradigm. To date, a variety of medications designed to treat particular pathological conditions have been shown to exhibit pro-longevity effects in different experimental models. Among them, there are many commonly used prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals such as metformin, rapamycin, aspirin, statins, melatonin, vitamin antioxidants, etc. All of them are being increasingly investigated in preclinical and clinical trials with the aim of determine whether they have potential for extension of human healthspan. The results from these trials are frequently inconclusive and fall short of initial expectations, suggesting that innovative research ideas and additional translational steps are required to overcome obstacles for implementation of such approaches in clinical practice. In this review, recent advances and challenges in the field of repurposing widely used conventional pharmaceuticals to target the aging process are summarized and discussed.

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology: A Novel Therapeutic System for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

A amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque formation in the brain is known to be the root cause of Alzheimer's disease (AD), which affects the behavior, memory, and cognitive ability in humans. The brain starts undergoing changes several years before the actual appearance of the symptoms. Nanotechnology could prove to be an alternative strategy for treating the disease effectively. It encompasses the diagnosis as well as the therapeutic aspect using validated biomarkers and nano-based drug delivery systems, respectively. A nano-based therapy may provide an alternate strategy, wherein one targets the protofibrillar amyloid-β (Aβ) structures, and this is followed by their disaggregation as random coils. Conventional/routine drug therapies are inefficient in crossing the blood-brain barrier; however, this hurdle can be overcome with the aid of nanoparticles. The present review highlights the various challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of AD. Meticulous and collaborative research using nanotherapeutic systems could provide remarkable breakthroughs in the early-stage diagnosis and therapy of AD.

Catechins within the Biopolymer Matrix-Design Concepts and Bioactivity Prospects

Epidemiological studies and clinical investigations proposed that catechins extracts alone may not provide a sufficient level of bioactivities and promising therapeutic effects to achieve health benefits due to a number of constraints related to poor oral absorption, limited bioavailability, sensitivity to oxidation, etc. Modern scientific studies have reported numerous techniques for the design of micro- and nano-bio-delivery systems as novel and promising strategies to overcome these obstacles and to enhance catechins' therapeutic activity. The objective assessment of their benefits, however, requires a critical comparative estimation of the advantages and disadvantages of the designed catechins-biocarrier systems, their biological activities and safety administration aspects. In this respect, the present review objectively outlines, compares and assesses the recent advances related to newly developed design concepts of catechins' encapsulation into various biopolymer carriers and their release behaviour, with a special emphasis on the specific physiological biofunctionalities of the innovative bioflavonoid/biopolymer delivery systems.

Antiviral activity of traditional medicinal plants from Ayurveda against SARS-CoV-2 infection

SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent of COVID-19 and responsible for more than 6 million cases globally, for which no vaccine or antiviral is available. Therefore, this study was planned to investigate the antiviral role of the active constituents against spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 as well as its host ACE2 receptor. Structure-based drug design approach has been used to elucidate the antiviral activity of active constituents present in traditional medicinal plants from Ayurveda. Further, parameters like drug-likeness, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity were determined to ensure the safety and efficacy of active constituents. Gene network analysis was performed to investigate the pathways altered during COVID-19. The prediction of drug–target interactions was performed to discover novel targets for active constituents. The results suggested that amarogentin, eufoliatorin, α-amyrin, caesalpinins, kutkin, β-sitosterol, and belladonnine are the top-ranked molecules have the highest affinity towards both the spike glycoprotein and ACE2. Most active constituents have passed the criteria of drug-likeness and demonstrated good pharmacokinetic profile with minimum predicted toxicity level. Gene network analysis confirmed that G-protein coupled receptor, protein kinase B signaling, protein secretion, peptidyl-serine phosphorylation, nuclear transport, apoptotic pathway, tumor necrosis factor, regulation of angiotensin level, positive regulation of ion transport, and membrane protein proteolysis were altered during COVID-19. The target prediction analysis revealed that most active constituents target the same pathways which are found to be altered during COVID-19. Collectively, our data encourages the use of active constituents as a potential therapy for COVID-19. However, further studies are ongoing to confirm its efficacy against disease.

Natural Formulations Provide Antioxidant Complement to Hyaluronic Acid-Based Topical Applications Used in Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid (HA) promotes wound healing, and, accordingly, formulations based on HA have been widely used in regenerative medicine. In addition, naturally derived compounds, e.g., plant-based extracts and vitamin E, have exhibited antioxidant activity. In this study, a formulation containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, raspberry extract, and green tea was developed for potential topical applications, targeting wound healing. Rheological analysis was performed along with antioxidant and biological studies. The rheological characterization showed that the HA-based formulation is a thixotropic platform and possesses higher mechanical properties than the control formulation. To evaluate the wound healing potential of the formulation, an in vitro “wound healing” assay was carried out using human derived fibroblasts (HDF) with a cell-free gap on the tissue culture dish. The formulation showed better wound healing ability than the control formulation.

Inhibitory effects of phytochemicals on NLRP3 inflammasome activation: A review

BACKGROUND

The NLRP3 inflammasome formation and following cytokine secretion is a crucial step in innate immune responses. Internal and external factors may trigger inflammasome activation and result in inflammatory cytokine secretion. Inflammasome formation and activity play critical roles in several disease pathologies such as cardiovascular, metabolic, renal, digestive, and CNS diseases. Underlying pathways are not yet clear, but phytochemicals as alternative therapies have been extensively used for suppression of inflammatory responses.

PURPOSE

In this review, we aimed to summarize in vivo and in vitro effects on NLRP3 inflammasome activation of selected phytochemicals.

METHOD

Three phytochemicals; Sulforaphane, Curcumin, and Resveratrol were selected, and studies were reviewed to clarify their intracellular signaling mechanism in NLRP3 inflammasome activity. PubMed and Scopus databases are used for the search. For sulforaphane, 8 articles, for curcumin, 25 articles, and for resveratrol, 41 articles were included in the review.

CONCLUSION

In vitro and in vivo studies pointed out that the selected phytochemicals have inhibitory properties on NLRP3 inflammasome activity. However, neither the mechanism is clear, nor the study designs and doses are standardized.

Neuroinflammation in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease: Phytochemicals as potential therapeutics

Accumulation of neurotoxic forms of amyloid-β proteins in senile plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins in neurofibrillary tangles is a well-known pathophysiological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, clinical trials with drugs targeting amyloid-β and tau have failed to demonstrate efficacy in treating AD. All currently FDA-approved anti-AD drugs have symptomatic effects only and are not able to cure this disease. This makes necessary to search for alternative therapeutic targets. Accumulating evidence suggests that systemic inflammation and related vascular dysfunction play important etiological roles in AD and precede its clinical manifestation. Therefore, novel therapeutic modalities targeted at these pathophysiological components of AD are intensively developed now. Phytochemicals such as resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, genistein and catechins are promising anti-AD therapeutics due to their ability to affect major pathogenetic mechanisms of AD, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. The implementation of innovative approaches for phytochemical delivery, including the nanotechnology-based ones which enable to significantly enhance their oral bioavailability, would likely provide an opportunity to address many challenges of conventional anti-AD therapies. In this review, roles of inflammation and vascular dysregulation in AD are described and phytobioactive compound-based treatment strategies for AD are discussed.

Curcumin, Curcumin Nanoparticles and Curcumin Nanospheres: A Review on Their Pharmacodynamics Based on Monogastric Farm Animal, Poultry and Fish Nutrition

Nanotechnology is an emerging field of science that is widely used in medical sciences. However, it has limited uses in monogastric farm animal as well as fish and poultry nutrition. There are some works that have been done on curcumin and curcumin nanoparticles as pharmaceutics in animal nutrition. However, studies have shown that ingestion of curcumin or curcumin nanoparticles does not benefit the animal health much due to their lower bioavailability, which may result because of low absorption, quick metabolism and speedy elimination of curcumin from the animal body. For these reasons, advanced formulations of curcumin are needed. Curcumin nanospheres is a newly evolved field of nanobiotechnology which may have beneficial effects in terms of growth increment, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects on animal and fish health by means of nanosphere forms that are biodegradable and biocompatible. Thus, this review aims to highlight the potential application of curcumin, curcumin nanoparticles and curcumin nanospheres in the field of monogastric farm animal, poultry and fish nutrition. We do believe that the review provides the perceptual vision for the future development of curcumin, curcumin nanoparticles and curcumin nanospheres and their applications in monogastric farm animal, poultry and fish nutrition.

Quercetin Inhibits Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Process and Promotes Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer via Downregulating lncRNA MALAT1

Background

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common carcinomas in men worldwide. The lack of effective therapies urges the development of novel therapeutic options against PC. Quercetin (Quer) is a flavonoid compound that has been shown to effectively inhibit PC in vitro and in vivo. However, the underlying mechanisms await elucidation. Long non-coding RNA MALAT1 has been reported as an oncogenic target in multiple types of cancers, including PC. Previous data showed that quercetin promoted the apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes by upregulating MALAT1 in rheumatoid arthritis. However, we speculate that mechanisms are different in PC.

Materials and Methods

Human PC cell line PC-3 and its xenograft tumor were chosen as in vitro and in vivo models for PC. A series of in vitro and in vivo functional experiments were carried out to elucidate the role of MALAT1 in quercetin treatment against PC. Western blot was performed to measure the expression of related proteins to explore underlying molecular mechanisms.

Results

We showed for the first time that MALAT1 expression was significantly downregulated in quercetin-treated PC cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Also, quercetin inhibited the proliferation of PC cells and the growth of xenograft tumors. Moreover, quercetin suppressed EMT process, promoted apoptosis and deactivated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway during the progression of PC. MALAT1 overexpression in PC cells resulted in the resistance against quercetin treatment.

Conclusion

Our study illustrated, for the first time, that MALAT1 played an important role in quercetin treatment against PC by inhibiting EMT process and promoting apoptosis, providing a new molecular basis for the application of quercetin in PC treatment.