Silkworm pupa oil attenuates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury by inhibiting oxidative stress-mediated NF-κB signaling

Dual anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and berberine on acetaminophen-induced liver injury in mice by inhibiting NF-κB activation via PI3K/AKT and PPARγ signaling pathways

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is still a leading cause of drug-induced liver injury (DILI), accompanied with severe inflammatory response. However, the therapy for APAP-induced DILI is rather limited. The combined application of natural products to treat DILI induced by APAP may be a new direction of the research. This study was conducted to evaluate the dual anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin (CUR) combined with berberine (BBR) against APAP-mediated DILI. Network pharmacology found that PI3K-Akt and PPAR signaling pathways were primarily involved in anti-DILI of the combination of CUR and BBR. APAP injection enhanced the levels of ALT, AST, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in mice, while such phenomenon was significantly reversed by the cotreatment of CUR and BBR, which was more effective than either single treatment. The increase of p-NF-κB and p-IKKα/β protein expression and the decrease of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and PPARγ protein expression in APAP-treated mice were markedly inhibited by the coadministration of CUR and BBR. Molecular docking further demonstrated that both CUR and BBR could stably bind to PI3K, AKT, and PPARγ protein. In conclusion, the combination of CUR and BBR more effectively protected liver from APAP-triggered DILI than individual treatment. The mechanism is to alleviate hepatic inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activation, which is possibly mediated by PI3K/Akt and PPARγ signaling pathways.

Potential uses of silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori L.) in food, feed, and other industries: a systematic review

The increasing pressures imposed on ecosystems by the growing needs of the human population are stimulus for research into innovative and unconventional sources of raw materials for different industries. This systematic review was carried out to investigate the available literature on the possible industrial uses of silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) pupae, a residue of silk production. The review was conducted using an adapted version of PRISMA. After a screening process, 105 articles were obtained and subjected to a detailed quantitative and qualitative analysis. It was found that in the last decade there has been a significant increase in the number of papers devoted to the study of the potential use of silkworm pupae in different applications, with a significantly higher number in the last three years of the scope of this review, indicating a growing interest in the subject. From the analysis of the information collected, promising uses in human and animal food, such as fish, mammalian, poultry, swine and companion animals, as well as potential uses for the pharmaceutical industry, were identified. The evaluated research identified compounds with antioxidant activity and important contents of unsaturated fatty acids, which are related to beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, diabetes control, reduction of the risk of developing certain types of cancer and inflammatory activity, among other benefits. One of the most relevant findings is that many studies report a significant concentration of α-linolenic acid in silkworm pupae oil, which is attributed with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-obesity and neuroprotective properties, among others.

The Protective Effect and Mechanism of a Phytochemical Extract from the Wild Vegetable Shutou (Crateva unilocularis Buch.) against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice

Acetaminophen (APAP) abuse is a common public health problem which can cause severe liver damage. However, strategies for dealing with this situation safely and effectively are very limited. The goal of the current work was to evaluate the protection and potential molecular mechanisms of an ethanol extract from shoots of the wild vegetable shutou (Crateva unilocularis Buch.) (ECS) against APAP-induced liver damage in mice. Mice orally received ECS for seven days (300 or 600 mg/kg b.w. per day) before being intraperitoneally injected with APAP (250 mg/kg). Results exhibited that ECS obviously decreased the content of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and malondialdehyde (p < 0.05). Catalase and superoxide dismutase were notably restored (p < 0.05), and the content of reduced glutathione was obviously increased (p < 0.05). Moreover, ECS significantly inhibited the secretion of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α (p < 0.05). Further analyses of the mechanisms showed that ECS may alleviate oxidative stress in the liver by increasing the expression of the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and NADH quinone oxidoreductase 1 proteins, and may suppress liver inflammation by inhibiting the expression of the phosphorylated-inhibitor kappa B alpha/inhibitor kappa B alpha, phosphorylated-nuclear factor κB/nuclear factor κB, and cyclooxygenase-2 proteins. Meanwhile, ECS inhibited hepatocyte apoptosis by enhancing B-cell lymphoma gene 2 and suppressing Bcl-2-associated X protein. In summary, ECS may be used as a dietary supplement to prevent the liver damage caused by APAP abuse.

Nutritional Value of Silkworm Pupae (Bombyx mori) with Emphases on Fatty Acids Profile and Their Potential Applications for Humans and Animals

Bombyx mori is an ideal lepidopteran species representative of many scientific studies, a model of studies for medicine and a significant insect from an ecological standpoint. This review was performed to summarize the fatty acids (FA) composition of silkworm pupae (SP) that are associated with other important compounds that could add value to SP, diversifying the ways of valorization. The proposal to complete plant-based feeds with insect-based feeds represents a viable option to beneficially impact human and animal health and the environment. The quality and quantity of fats consumed significantly impact the aetiology of certain diseases. The key compounds of fat named essential FA (EFA) substantially influence the prevention and treatment of several diseases through their nutraceutical functions. Due to its excellent profile in nutrients such as protein and fat, amino acids and fatty acids composition, SP has become an important alternative feed ingredient and source of EFA. SP is a by-product that was discarded in large quantities. Following the need to act to improve human health and reduce climate change impact, many researchers focused on studying SP applications in the medical and agricultural industries. Several authors noticed an improvement in the health markers by using SP. The feed cost for the animal was reduced with economic implications. Minimization of environmental impact was recorded. Few precautions were recommended regarding SP use, although they should not be ignored. The composition of SP and its potential for use in various industries provides us with persuasive arguments for continuing to develop the sericulture industry.

Nutritional aspects and dietary benefits of "Silkworms": Current scenario and future outlook

In the current scenario, it is estimated that by 2050, there will be an additional 2.5 billion people and a 70% increase in food demand. Crop yields are not increasing fast enough to support global needs, and world agriculture is facing several serious challenges. Therefore, insects can be a nutritious alternative to meet the ever-increasing food demand in the present and future. The majority of insect consumption occurs in developing countries, with approximately 1,900 insect species consumed worldwide. Food and feed derived from them are of high quality, have a high feed conversion ratio and emit a low level of greenhouse gases. Among insects silkworms are beneficial to humans, not only because of their high nutritional value, but also because of their several pharmacological properties. Silkworm eggs, larvae, and pupae contains high amount of proteins, oils, minerals, vitamins, and several other beneficial components which are nutritious as well as have positive effect on human health. Studies have shown that silkworm pupae protect the liver, enhance immunity, inhibit apoptosis, inhibit cancer, inhibit tumor growth, inhibit microbial growth, regulate blood glucose and blood lipids, and lower blood pressure. This review paper summerized the nutritional value of different life stages of silkworm, nutritional comparison of silkworm with the major human foods, and the effects of silkworm consumption on human health, thus ittargets to generate interest toward in sericulture and improve human health by using silkworm as a nutritious food and attain sustainability in food and nutritional security.

The Beneficial Effects of Pine Nuts and Its Major Fatty Acid, Pinolenic Acid, on Inflammation and Metabolic Perturbations in Inflammatory Disorders

Inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are regulated by cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. Current treatments for these conditions are associated with significant side effects and do not completely suppress inflammation. The benefits of diet, especially the role of specific components, are poorly understood. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have several beneficial health effects. The majority of studies on PUFAs have been on omega-3 fatty acids. This review will focus on a less studied fatty acid, pinolenic acid (PNLA) from pine nuts, which typically constitutes up to 20% of its total fatty acids. PNLA is emerging as a dietary PUFA and a promising supplement in the prevention of inflammatory disorders or as an alternative therapy. Some studies have shown the health implications of pine nuts oil (PNO) and PNLA in weight reduction, lipid-lowering and anti-diabetic actions as well as in suppression of cell invasiveness and motility in cancer. However, few reviews have specifically focused on the biological and anti-inflammatory effects of PNLA. Furthermore, in recent bioinformatic studies on human samples, the expression of many mRNAs and microRNAs was regulated by PNLA indicating potential transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of inflammatory and metabolic processes. The aim of this review is to summarize, highlight, and evaluate research findings on PNO and PNLA in relation to potential anti-inflammatory benefits and beneficial metabolic changes. In this context, the focus of the review is on the potential actions of PNLA on inflammation along with modulation of lipid metabolism and oxidative stress based on data from both in vitro and in vivo experiments, and human findings, including gene expression analysis.

Efficacy of Silkworm Pupae Extract on Muscle Strength and Mass in Middle-Aged and Older Individuals: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the efficacy and safety of silkworm pupae extract (SWP) consumption for 12 weeks on muscle mass and strength in middle-aged and older individuals with relatively low skeletal muscle mass who do regular low-intensity exercise.

DESIGN

A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

The study was conducted with 54 participants with relatively low skeletal muscle mass (SMM) (64.4 ± 6.1 years; body mass index, 23.8 ± 2.4 kg/m2).

INTERVENTION AND MEASUREMENTS

Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: 1000 mg of SWP/day plus regular exercise (SWP group, n=27) or placebo plus regular exercise (placebo group, n=27). All participants were required to engage in 30-60 minutes/day of walking for ≥3 days/week for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was knee extension/flexion strength (Nm), measured at the velocity of 60°/s. Secondary outcomes included body composition, biomarkers (creatine kinase and creatinine), handgrip strength, and quality of life questionnaire.

RESULTS

Both the intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses revealed no significant impact of SWP on knee strength compared to the placebo group over 12 weeks. On the other hand, the SWP group had significantly greater increases in right-handgrip strength by 1.94 kg (95% CI: 0.08-3.79; p = 0.041) and left-handgrip strength by 1.83 kg (0.25-3.41; p = 0.024) compared to the placebo group in the ITT population, after 12 weeks. Moreover, in the PP population, the SWP group revealed an even greater increase in right-handgrip strength by 2.07 kg (0.15-3. 98; p = 0.035) and left-handgrip strength by 2.21 kg (0.60-3.83; p = 0.008) for the 12-week period. However, this study resulted in a failure to detect significant differences in the body composition, biomarkers, quality of life questionnaire, physical activity, and caloric intake between the groups. None of the participants in the SWP group experienced any significant adverse events. In the placebo group, two participants experienced urticaria and allergic side effects, leading to their withdrawal from the study and two exhibited elevated levels of liver enzyme and increased diastolic blood pressure, respectively at 12 weeks.

CONCLUSION

SWP, in addition to low-intensity exercise, may enhance handgrip strengths in middle-aged and older adults with relatively lower SMM. Future studies need to use a large sample size over longer periods to validate our findings. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04994054.

Extraction and Purification of Flavonoids from Buddleja officinalis Maxim and Their Attenuation of H2O2-Induced Cell Injury by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Autophagy

Cataracts are an ailment representing the leading cause of blindness in the world. The pathogenesis of cataracts is not clear, and there is no effective treatment. An increasing amount of evidence shows that oxidative stress and autophagy in lens epithelial cells play a key role in the occurrence and development of cataracts. Buddleja officinalis Maxim flavonoids (BMF) are natural antioxidants and regulators that present anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects, among others. In this study, we optimized the extraction method of BMFs and detected three of their main active monomers (luteolin, apigenin, and acacetin). In addition, a model of oxidative damage model using rabbit lens epithelial cells induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). By detecting the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), malondialdehyde (MDA), and OH (OH), the expression of autophagosomes and autolysosomes were observed after MRFP-GFP-LC3 adenovirus was introduced into the cells. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of Beclin-1 and P62. Our research results showed that the optimal extraction parameters to obtain the highest yield of total flavonoids were a liquid−solid ratio of 1:31 g/mL, an ethanol volume fraction of 67%, an extraction time of 2.6 h, and an extraction temperature of 58 °C. Moreover, the content of luteolin was 690.85 ppb, that of apigenin was 114.91 ppb, and the content of acacetin was 5.617 ppb. After oxidative damage was induced by H2O2, the cell survival rate decreased significantly. BMFs could increase the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and decrease the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and OH (OH). After the MRFP-GFP-LC3 virus was introduced into rabbit lens epithelial cells and detecting the expression of P62 and Beclin-1, we found that the intervention of BMF could promote the binding of autophagosomes to lysosomes. Compared with the model group, the level of P62 in the low-, middle-, and high-dose groups of BMF was significantly down-regulated, the level of Beclin-1 was significantly increased, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). In other words, the optimized extraction method was better than others, and the purified BMF contained three main active monomers (luteolin, apigenin, and acacetin). In addition, BMFs could ameliorate the H2O2-induced oxidative damage to rabbit lens cells by promoting autophagy and regulating the level of antioxidation.

Nutritional Composition, Health Benefits, and Application Value of Edible Insects: A Review

For thousands of years, edible insects have been used as food to alleviate hunger and improve malnutrition. Some insects have also been used as medicines because of their therapeutic properties. This is not only due to the high nutritional value of edible insects, but more importantly, the active substances from edible insects have a variety of biofunctional activities. In this paper, we described and summarized the nutritional composition of edible insects and discussed the biological functions of edible insects and their potential benefits for human health. A summary analysis of the findings for each active function confirms that edible insects have the potential to develop functional foods and medicines that are beneficial to humans. In addition, we analyzed the issues that need to be considered in the application of edible insects and the current status of edible insects in food and pharmaceutical applications. We concluded with a discussion of regulations related to edible insects and an outlook on future research and applications of edible insects. By analyzing the current state of research on edible insects, we aim to raise awareness of the use of edible insects to improve human health and thus promote their better use and development.

Absence of IκBβ/NFκB signaling does not attenuate acetaminophen-induced hepatic injury

Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol [APAP]) toxicity is a common cause of acute liver failure. Innate immune signaling and specifically NFκB activation play a complex role in mediating the hepatic response to toxic APAP exposures. While inflammatory innate immune responses contribute to APAP-induced injury, these same pathways play a role in regeneration and repair. Previous studies have shown that attenuating IκBβ/NFκB signaling downstream of TLR4 activation can limit injury, but whether this pathway contributes to APAP-induced hepatic injury is unknown. We hypothesized that the absence of IκBβ/NFκB signaling in the setting of toxic APAP exposure would attenuate APAP-induced hepatic injury. To test this, we exposed adult male WT and IκBβ-/- mice to APAP (280 mg/kg, IP) and evaluated liver histology at early (2-24 hr) and late (48-72 hr) time points. Furthermore, we interrogated the hepatic expression of NFκB inflammatory (Cxcl1, Tnf, Il1b, Il6, Ptgs2, and Ccl2), anti-inflammatory (Il10, Tnfaip3, and Nfkbia), and Nrf2/antioxidant (Gclc, Hmox, and Nqo1) target genes previously demonstrated to play a role in APAP-induced injury. Conflicting with our hypothesis, we found that hepatic injury was similar in WT and IκBβ-/- mice. Acutely, the induced expression of some target genes was similar in WT and IκBβ-/- mice (Tnfaip3, Nfkbia, and Gclc), while others were either not induced (Cxcl1, Tnf, Ptgs2, and Il10) or significantly attenuated (Ccl2) in IκBβ-/- mice. At later time points, APAP-induced hepatic expression of Il1b, Il6, and Gclc was significantly attenuated in IκBβ-/- mice. Based on these findings, the therapeutic potential of targeting IκBβ/NFκB signaling to treat toxic APAP-induced hepatic injury is likely limited.

The immunological mechanisms and therapeutic potential in drug-induced liver injury: lessons learned from acetaminophen hepatotoxicity

Acute liver failure caused by drug overdose is a significant clinical problem in developed countries. Acetaminophen (APAP), a widely used analgesic and antipyretic drug, but its overdose can cause acute liver failure. In addition to APAP-induced direct hepatotoxicity, the intracellular signaling mechanisms of APAP-induced liver injury (AILI) including metabolic activation, mitochondrial oxidant stress and proinflammatory response further affect progression and severity of AILI. Liver inflammation is a result of multiple interactions of cell death molecules, immune cell-derived cytokines and chemokines, as well as damaged cell-released signals which orchestrate hepatic immune cell infiltration. The immunoregulatory interplay of these inflammatory mediators and switching of immune responses during AILI lead to different fate of liver pathology. Thus, better understanding the complex interplay of immune cell subsets in experimental models and defining their functional involvement in disease progression are essential to identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of AILI. Here, this present review aims to systematically elaborate on the underlying immunological mechanisms of AILI, its relevance to immune cells and their effector molecules, and briefly discuss great therapeutic potential based on inflammatory mediators.

Silkworm Pupae: A Functional Food with Health Benefits for Humans

Silkworm pupae are insects that are beneficial to human health, not only for their high nutritional value but, more importantly, for the variety of pharmacological functions they can perform when consumed. Currently, there is a lot of interest in the pharmaceutical applications of silkworm pupae. In recent years, the biological functions of domestic silkworm pupae have gradually been identified and confirmed, especially for their beneficial effects on human health. Studies have found that silkworm pupae have positive effects on liver protection, immune enhancement, antiapoptosis, antitumour, antibacterial, regulation of blood glucose and blood lipids, and lowering of blood pressure. However, the pharmacological mechanisms and systemic safety of silkworm pupae have not been systematically evaluated. In this paper, the nutritional composition of the pupae of the domestic silkworm is first summarised. The pharmacological functions of silkworm pupae and their components are then classified, and their mechanisms of occurrence are described. In addition, we provide a preliminary evaluation of the safety of silkworm pupae, analyse their application prospects, and suggest future directions for further pharmacological function studies. The aim is to generate interest in the promotion of human health through the use of silkworm pupae.

APAP-induced IκBβ/NFκB signaling drives hepatic IL6 expression and associated sinusoidal dilation

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose results in high morbidity and mortality, with limited treatment options. Increased understanding of the cellular signaling pathways activated in response to toxic APAP exposure is needed to provide insight into novel therapeutic strategies. Toxic APAP exposure induces hepatic nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) activation. NFκB signaling has been identified to mediate the pro-inflammatory response, but also induces a pro-survival and regenerative response. It is currently unknown whether potentiating NFkB activation would be injurious or advantageous after APAP overdose. The NFκB inhibitory protein beta (IκBβ) dictates the duration and degree of the NFκB response following exposure to oxidative injuries. Thus, we sought to determine whether IκBβ/NFκB signaling contributes to APAP-induced hepatic injury. At late time points (24 hours) following toxic APAP exposures, mice expressing only IκBβ (AKBI mice) exhibited increased serologic evidence of hepatic injury. This corresponded with increased histologic injury, specifically related to sinusoidal dilatation. Compared to wild-type (WT) mice, AKBI mice demonstrated sustained hepatic nuclear translocation of the NFκB subunits p65 and p50, and enhanced NFκB target gene expression. This included increased expression of interleukin-6 (Il-6), a known contributor to hepatic sinusoidal dilation. This transcriptional response corresponded with increased plasma protein content of Il-6, as well as increased activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Impact Statement: IκBβ/NFκB signaling is associated with a pro-inflammatory response, exacerbated Il-6 and STAT3 activation, and this was associated with late development of sinusoidal dilatation. Thus, targeting sustained IκBβ/NFκB signaling may represent a novel therapeutic approach to attenuate late hepatic injury following toxic APAP exposure.

Effect of pinolenic acid on oxidative stress injury in HepG2 cells induced by H2O2

To investigate the effect and mechanism of pinolenic acid (PNA) on H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury in HepG2 cells. Methods: PNA was used to regulate oxidative stress injury of HepG2 cells induced by H2O2. Quantification of cell survival rate, accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and expression levels of anti-oxidation-related genes were determined using MTT, fluorescent probe technology (DCFH-DA), and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain technology (qRT-PCR) method, respectively. Meanwhile, the activity of intracellular antioxidant enzymes was determined by biochemical methods. The results showed that PNA improved the survival rate of HepG2 cells induced by H2O2 (29.59%, high-dose group), reduced the accumulation of intracellular ROS (65.52%, high-dose group), and reduced the level of intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA; 65.52%, high-dose group). All these results were dose-dependent, which indicated that PNA can improve oxidative stress damage of cells. Furthermore, the mechanism of PNA regulating oxidative stress was investigated from the gene level. Results showed that under supplementation of PNA, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) had been improved (39.74%, 17.58%, and 23.83%, high-dose group). Further studies on gene expression which controls the activity of antioxidant enzymes showed that under the regulation of PNA, the expression level of Keap1 gene was decreased, while Nrf2 gene was increased. The expression levels of HO-1 and NQO1 in the downstream of Nrf2 were increased. Results indicated that under the regulation of PNA, Nrf2 was separated from Keap1, entered the nucleus, bound to ARE, and up-regulated the expression levels of HO-1 and NQO1 genes. Conclusion: PNA has a conspicuous improvement effect on oxidative stress damage induced by H2O2 in HepG2 cells. We also found the antioxidant mechanisms of PNA where it protected cells from oxidative stress damage by causing nuclear translocation of Nrf2 gene and up-regulated the expression levels of antioxidant enzymes in the downstream. This shows that PNA prevented oxidative stress by mediating the Keap1/Nrf2 transcriptional pathway and down-regulating enzyme activities.

Chronic treatment with acetaminophen protects against liver aging by targeting inflammation and oxidative stress

The liver exhibits a variety of functions that are well-preserved during aging. However, the cellular hallmarks of aging increase the risk of hepatic alterations and development of chronic liver diseases. Acetaminophen (APAP) is a first choice for relieving mild-to-moderate pain. Most of the knowledge about APAP-mediated hepatotoxicity arises from acute overdose studies due to massive oxidative stress and inflammation, but little is known about its effect in age-related liver inflammation after chronic exposure. Our results show that chronic treatment of wild-type mice on the B6D2JRcc/Hsd genetic background with APAP at an infratherapeutic dose reduces liver alterations during aging without affecting body weight. This intervention attenuates age-induced mild oxidative stress by increasing HO-1, MnSOD and NQO1 protein levels and reducing ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK phosphorylation. More importantly, APAP treatment counteracts the increase in Cd8⁺ and the reduction in Cd4⁺ T lymphocytes observed in the liver with age. This response was also found in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In conclusion, chronic infratherapeutic APAP treatment protects mice from age-related liver alterations by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation.

Protein Hydrolysate of Silkworm Pupa Prevents Memory Impairment Induced by Oxidative Stress in Scopolamine-Induced Mice via Modulating the Cholinergic Nervous System and Antioxidant Defense System

Silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) is an edible insect that has been reported to contain high-quality proteins, lipids, minerals, and vitamins, and to possess high antioxidant activity. However, there have been no studies on the neuroprotective effects of silkworm pupae. Therefore, we investigated a water extract of silkworm pupae with protease (WSP) as a functional and therapeutic candidate for neurodegenerative disorders. First, we evaluated the effect of WSP on oxidative stress-induced mouse hippocampal neuronal cells (HT-22 cells). Cell viability diminished by addition of glutamate but was significantly recovered by WSP treatment. Furthermore, WSP significantly decreased the release of lactate dehydrogenase and generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species in oxidative stress-induced cells. In addition, in scopolamine-treated mice, WSP attenuated memory impairment, as demonstrated in the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests, indicating protection of neuronal cells against oxidative damage. Moreover, WSP prevented scopolamine-induced increases in acetylcholinesterase activity and decreases in choline-acetyltransferase activity. Finally, treatment with WSP enhanced the antioxidant defense system by regulating the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Overall, this study showed that WSP exerted antioxidant and memory enhancing action against oxidative stress.

The effect of Malus doumeri leaf flavonoids on oxidative stress injury induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in human embryonic kidney 293 T cells

BACKGROUND

In this study, Malus doumeri leaf flavonoids (MDLF) were used as the research object to observe their in vitro antioxidant stress ability. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was used to induce oxidative stress in 293 T cells.

METHODS

MTT, flow cytometry, and qPCR were used to verify the effect of MDLF.

RESULTS

In vitro cell experiments showed that at a concentration of 0-160 μg/mL, MDLF did not affect the normal proliferation of human embryonic kidney 293 T cells (HEK 293 T cells), and MDLF had no cytotoxic effect in this concentration range. It was found that MDLF could maintain the survival of HEK 293 T cells (82.6%) at a high concentration (160 μg/mL). Morphological observation also found that MDLF can inhibit the cell structure imperfection caused by H2O2. It was also observed that MDLF could significantly increase the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reduce the level of malondialdehyde (MDA). The results of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) showed that MDLF could significantly up-regulate the mRNA expression levels of CAT, SOD, GSH, GSH-Px, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and downregulate the expression levels of B-cell lymphoma-2 associated x protein (Bax), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in oxidative stress-injured cells. The HPLC analysis showed that MDLF contained hyperin, isoquercetin, quercitrin, hesperidin, myricetin, baicalin and quercetin.

CONCLUSION

From the experimental results, it was observed that MDLF has a strong anti-oxidation ability in vitro, and it can interfere with the oxidative stress damage caused by H2O2 in 293 T cells. Therefore, MDLF is a type of natural substance with good anti-oxidant effect, and it has the potential to interfere with many diseases.

Intervention effects of lotus leaf flavonoids on gastric mucosal lesions in mice infected with Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the main factors that cause gastric lesions. The lotus leaf is an edible plant used in traditional Eastern medicine. This study evaluates the intervention effects of lotus leaf flavonoids (LLF) on gastric mucosal lesions in mice infected with H. pylori and explores their mechanism of action. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis reveals that LLF contain kaempferitrin (kaempferol-3,7-dirhamnoside), hypericin, astragalin (kaempferol-3-glucoside), phlorizin, and quercetin. LLF can reduce the number of gastric mucosal lesions and tissue lesions in mice with H. pylori-induced gastric lesions. LLF can increase the levels of somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal peptide in the serum of mice with gastric lesions and decrease the levels of substance P and endothelin-1 to inhibit gastric lesions. LLF can also reduce the levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interferon-gamma cytokines in the serum of mice with gastric lesions. Using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay it can be seen that LLF can downregulate mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, myeloperoxidase, keratin (KRT) 16, KRT6b, and transglutaminase 3 epidermal in the gastric tissues of mice with gastric lesions. Western blot analysis indicates that LLF can downregulate the protein expressions of caspase-1, Nod-like receptor protein 3, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Toll-like receptor 4 in the gastric tissues of mice with gastric lesions. LLF have beneficial effects on gastric lesions induced by H. pylori. Meanwhile LLF is more active in competition with ranitidine. LLF represent an active substance that can inhibit H. pylori-induced gastric lesions. The flavones of LLF may enhance the inhibition of gastric mucosal lesions by promoting the interaction between the compounds.