Pterostilbene suppresses oxidative stress and allergic airway inflammation through AMPK/Sirt1 and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

ADSCs-derived exosomes suppress macrophage ferroptosis via the SIRT1/NRF2 signaling axis to alleviate acute lung injury in sepsis

Acute lung injury being one of the earliest and most severe complications during sepsis and macrophages play a key role in this process. To investigate the regulatory effects and potential mechanisms of adipose mesenchymal stem cell derived-exosomes (ADSC-exo) on macrophages and septic mice, ADSCs-exo was administrated to both LPS-induced macrophage and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) induced sepsis mice. ADSCs-exo was confirmed to inhibit M1 polarization of macrophages and to reduce excessive inflammation. The use of ADSCs-exo in CLP mice and in LPS-induced macrophages relieved oxidative stress, cellular damage, and acute lung injury. During this process, ADSCs-exo increased the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, significantly upregulating the activation of the antioxidant pathway Nrf2/HO-1. Concurrently, they enhanced the expression of SIRT1 in macrophages. Further SIRT1 interference experiments demonstrated that ADSCs-exo mitigated macrophage inflammatory responses and LPS-induced ferroptosis by upregulating SIRT1. In the LPS-induced macrophage model, after SIRT1 was interfered with, ADSCs-exo failed to upregulate the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, leading to enhanced ferroptosis. Finally, in a CLP sepsis mouse model with myeloid-specific SIRT1 knockout, ADSCs-exo was observed to reduce lung tissue injury, oxidative stress damage, and ferroptosis. Still, these beneficial effects were reversed due to the myeloid-specific knockout of SIRT1, while co-administration of a ferroptosis inhibitor rescued this situation, alleviating lung injury and significantly reducing tissue levels of oxidative stress. In conclusion, this study elucidated a novel potential therapeutic mechanism wherein ADSCs-exo upregulates the levels of SIRT1 in macrophages through a non-delivery approach.

Undaria pinnatifida extract attenuates combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome by the modulation of epithelial cell dysfunction and oxidative stress

Undaria pinnatifida ( U. pinnatifida) has long been a part of the human diet and medicine. Although U. pinnatifida has been reported to have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and antibacterial activities, its specific effect on patients with combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome (CARAS) has not been clarified. In this study, the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of U. pinnatifida extract (UPE) are investigated in a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced CARAS. The oral administration of UPE inhibits allergic responses by reducing OVA-specific immunoglobulin levels. As a result, the symptoms of early reactions are also improved. UPE inhibits the accumulation of inflammatory cells and attenuates the expression of Th2 cytokines in both nasal and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Furthermore, UPE treatment inhibits the NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway in lung homogenates. Additionally, UPE prevents shedding of the nasal mucosal epithelium, protects the integrity of the epithelium, enhances the expression of E-cadherin at the junction of epithelial cells, and inhibits the degradation of ZO-1 and occludin in the airway epithelium. In addition, UPE ameliorates dysfunction of the nasal epithelial barrier by enhancing antioxidant properties and downregulating the expression of the inflammatory factor IL-33. These results suggest that UPE may treat CARAS by modulating epithelial cell dysfunction and oxidative stress.

Tert-butylhydroquinone promotes skin flap survival by inhibiting oxidative stress mediated by the Nrf2/HO-1 signalling pathway

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Skin flaps are among the most important means of wound repair in clinical settings. However, partial or even total distal necrosis may occur after a flap operation, with severe consequences for both patients and doctors. This study investigated whether tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a known agonist of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and an antioxidant, could promote skin flap survival.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

McFarlane skin flap models were established in male Sprague-Dawley rats and then randomly divided into control, low-dose TBHQ, and high-dose TBHQ treatment groups. On postoperative day 7, the survival and blood flow of the skin flaps were assessed. Using flap tissue samples, angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and Nrf2/haem oxygenase 1 (HO-1) signalling pathway activity were measured with immunohistochemical techniques and western blotting.

KEY RESULTS

TBHQ dose-dependently stimulated the Nrf2/HO-1 signalling pathway, inducing autophagy through the up-regulation of LC3B and beclin 1 and concurrently suppressing p62 expression. Additionally, TBHQ hindered apoptosis by enhancing Bcl-2 expression while inhibiting the expression of Bax. It suppressed inflammation by inhibiting the expression of interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, and tumour necrosis factor-α and enhanced angiogenesis by promoting the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

In summary, TBHQ promoted flap survival in rats by up-regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 signalling pathway. As TBHQ is already widely used as a food additive, it could offer an acceptable means of improving clinical outcomes following skin flap surgery in patients.

Oxysophocarpine Prevents the Glutamate-Induced Apoptosis of HT-22 Cells via the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway

Oxysophocarpine (OSC), a quinolizidine alkaloid, shows neuroprotective potential, though its mechanisms are unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of OSC through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway using the HT-22 cell line. Assessments of cell viability were conducted utilizing the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Assessments of oxidative stress (OS) were conducted through the quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The integrity of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was scrutinized using fluorescent probe technology. Apoptosis levels were quantified using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. The trafficking of Nrf2 within the cell nucleus was examined through immunofluorescence analysis. Furthermore, Western blotting (WB) was applied to evaluate the expression levels of proteins implicated in apoptosis and the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. To further probe the influence of OSC on the overexpression of antioxidant enzymes, cells were subjected to transfection with HO-1 siRNA. The results showed that OSC inhibited glutamate-induced OS, as evidenced by reduced cell viability and ROS levels. Furthermore, the apoptotic condition induced by glutamate in HT-22 cells was significantly reduced following OSC treatment. More interestingly, the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway was upregulated following OSC treatment. These results suggest that OSC can exert neuroprotective effects by regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to inhibit neuronal cell apoptosis, potentially aiding in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Epigenetic Effects of Natural Products in Inflammatory Diseases: Recent Findings

Inflammation is an essential step for the etiology of multiple diseases. Clinically, due to the limitations of current drugs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as serious side effects and expensive costs, it is urgent to explore novel mechanisms and medicines. Natural products have received extensive attention recently because of their multi-component and multi-target characteristics. Epigenetic modifications are crucial pathophysiological targets for developing innovative therapies for pharmacological interventions. Investigations examining how natural products improving inflammation through epigenetic modifications are emerging. This review state that natural products relieve inflammation via regulating the gene transcription levels through chromosome structure regulated by histone acetylation levels and the addition or deletion of methyl groups on DNA duplex. They could also exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the proteins in typical inflammatory signaling pathways by ubiquitin-related degradation and the effect of glycolysis derived free glycosyls. Studies on epigenetic modifications have the potential to facilitate the development of natural products as therapeutic agents. Future research directed at better understanding of how natural products modulate inflammatory processes through less studied epigenetic modifications including neddylation, SUMOylation, palmitoylation and lactylation, may provide new implications. Meanwhile, higher quality preclinical studies and more powerful clinical evidence are still needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the natural products. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01764204; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05845931; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04657926; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02330276.

Hyperlipidemia exacerbates acute pancreatitis via interactions between P38MAPK and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

The mechanisms involved in the hyperlipidemia-associated acute pancreatitis (HLAP) is not yet fully understood.

AIMS

To investigate the role of P38MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinases) and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of HLAP.

METHODS

In AP (acute pancreatitis) patients, the GEO database retrieved gene expression profiles of cytokines, MAPK14, nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 (NF-κB 1) and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD 2). GeneMANIA has been used for the prediction of potential interaction mechanisms. Validation was carried out using an experimental AP model and a bi-directional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

RESULTS

Compared to mild AP, patients with severe AP had higher gene expression of MAPK14, NF-κB1, SOD2, IL-1β and IL-6R. GeneMANIA revealed 77.6 % physical interactions among MAPK14, NF-κB1, SOD2, IL-1β and IL-6R. Our results indicated that HLAP group had a more severe pancreatic injury, a stronger inflammatory response with higher serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in comparison with the AP group, which were significantly mitigated in HLAP-Pi group. Furthermore, SB 203580 inhibited increasing levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), P38MAPK, p-P38MAPK and NF-κB p65 in pancreatic tissue as well as decreasing serum values of SOD and GSH-PX in HLAP group. MR analysis suggested that MAPK14 levels were negatively associated with the SOD levels, by using the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method (b = -0.193: se = 0.225; P = 1.03e-17). Reverse MR analysis indicated that SOD was negatively associated with the MAPK14 levels in the IVW analysis (b = -0.163: se = 0.020; P = 1.38e-15).

CONCLUSION

Interactions between P38MAPK and oxidative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of HLAP.

Nrf-2/HO-1 activation protects against oxidative stress and inflammation induced by metal welding fume UFPs in 16HBE cells

As one of the main occupational hazards, welding fumes can cause oxidative damage and induce series of diseases, such as COPD or asthma. To clarify the effects of the metal fume ultrafine particulates (MF-UFPs) of welding fumes on oxidative damage, UFPs were collected by melt inert gas (MIG) and manual metal arc (MMA) welding, and the composition was confirmed. Human bronchial epithelial 16HBE cells were treated with 0-1000 µg/cm2 MF-UFPs to analyse the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and cytokines. The protein and mRNA expression of Keap1-Nrf-2/antioxidant response elements (AREs) signalling pathway components were also analysed. After 4 h of treatment, the cell viability decreased 25% after 33.85 and 32.81 µg/cm2 MIG/MMA-UFPs treated. The intracellular ATP concentrations were also decreased significantly, while LDH leakage was increased. The decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and increased ROS suggested the occurrence of oxidative damage, and the results of proteome profiling arrays also showed a significant increase in IL-6 and IL-8. The expression of AREs which related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory were also increased. These results indicate that the MF-UFPs can cause oxidative stress in 16HBE cells and activate the Nrf-2/ARE signalling pathway to against oxidative damage.

Metabolic mechanisms orchestrated by Sirtuin family to modulate inflammatory responses

Maintaining metabolic homeostasis is crucial for cellular and organismal health throughout their lifespans. The intricate link between metabolism and inflammation through immunometabolism is pivotal in maintaining overall health and disease progression. The multifactorial nature of metabolic and inflammatory processes makes study of the relationship between them challenging. Homologs of Saccharomyces cerevisiae silent information regulator 2 protein, known as Sirtuins (SIRTs), have been demonstrated to promote longevity in various organisms. As nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent deacetylases, members of the Sirtuin family (SIRT1-7) regulate energy metabolism and inflammation. In this review, we provide an extensive analysis of SIRTs involved in regulating key metabolic pathways, including glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. Furthermore, we systematically describe how the SIRTs influence inflammatory responses by modulating metabolic pathways, as well as inflammatory cells, mediators, and pathways. Current research findings on the preferential roles of different SIRTs in metabolic disorders and inflammation underscore the potential of SIRTs as viable pharmacological and therapeutic targets. Future research should focus on the development of promising compounds that target SIRTs, with the aim of enhancing their anti-inflammatory activity by influencing metabolic pathways within inflammatory cells.

The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Its Crosstalk: A Chemopreventive Target of Naturally Occurring and Modified Phytochemicals

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an environmentally sensitive transcription factor (TF) historically associated with carcinogenesis initiation via the activation of numerous carcinogens. Nowadays, the AhR has been attributed to multiple endogenous functions to maintain cellular homeostasis. Moreover, crosstalk, often reciprocal, has been found between the AhR and several other TFs, particularly estrogen receptors (ERs) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2). Adequate modulation of these signaling pathways seems to be an attractive strategy for cancer chemoprevention. Several naturally occurring and synthetically modified AhR or ER ligands and Nrf2 modulators have been described. Sulfur-containing derivatives of glucosinolates, such as indole-3-carbinol (I3C), and stilbene derivatives are particularly interesting in this context. I3C and its condensation product, 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM), are classic examples of blocking agents that increase drug-metabolizing enzyme activity through activation of the AhR. Still, they also affect multiple essential signaling pathways in preventing hormone-dependent cancer. Resveratrol is a competitive antagonist of several classic AhR ligands. Its analogs, with ortho-methoxy substituents, exert stronger antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity. In addition, they modulate AhR activity and estrogen metabolism. Their activity seems related to a number of methoxy groups introduced into the stilbene structure. This review summarizes the data on the chemopreventive potential of these classes of phytochemicals, in the context of AhR and its crosstalk modulation.

Solanum melongena L. Extract Promotes Intestinal Tight Junction Re-Assembly via SIRT-1-Dependent Mechanisms

Tight junction disruption can lead to pathogenesis of various diseases without therapeutic strategy to recover intestinal barrier integrity. The main objective of this study is to demonstrate the effect of Solanum melongena L. extract (SMLE) on intestinal tight junction recovery and its underlying mechanism. Intestinal barrier function is attenuated by Ca2+ depletion. SMLE treatment increased TER value across T84 cell monolayers. Permeability assay reveals that Ca2+ depletion promotes 4-kDa FITC-dextran permeability, but not 70-kDa FITC-dextran. SMLE suppresses the rate of 4-kDa FITC-dextran permeability, indicating that SMLE inhibits paracellular leak pathway permeability. SMLE-mediated TER increase and leak pathway suppression are abolished by neither calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ) inhibitor nor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor. Furthermore, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitors have no effects on SMLE-mediated TER increase and leak pathway suppression. Interestingly, SMLE is unable to enhance TER value and diminish leak pathway permeability in T84 cell monolayers pre-treated with sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1) inhibitor. Immunofluorescence staining reveals that SMLE enhances re-assembly of tight junction proteins, including occludin and ZO-1 to intercellular space but this effect is abolished by SIRT-1 inhibitor. These data suggest that SMLE promotes intestinal tight junction re-assembly via SIRT-1-dependent manner.

The role of deacetylase SIRT1 in allergic diseases

The silent information regulator sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein is an NAD+-dependent class-III lysine deacetylase that serves as an important post-transcriptional modifier targeting lysine acetylation sites to mediate deacetylation modifications of histones and non-histone proteins. SIRT1 has been reported to be involved in several physiological or pathological processes such as aging, inflammation, immune responses, oxidative stress and allergic diseases. In this review, we summarized the regulatory roles of SIRT1 during allergic disorder progression. Furthermore, we highlight the therapeutic effects of targeting SIRT1 in allergic diseases.

Recent advances in anti-inflammation via AMPK activation

Inflammation is a complex physiological phenomenon, which is the body's defensive response, but abnormal inflammation can have adverse effects, and many diseases are related to the inflammatory response. AMPK, as a key sensor of cellular energy status, plays a crucial role in regulating cellular energy homeostasis and glycolipid metabolism. In recent years, the anti-inflammation effect of AMPK and related signalling cascade has begun to enter everyone's field of vision - not least the impact on metabolic diseases. A great number of studies have shown that anti-inflammatory drugs work through AMPK and related pathways. Herein, this article summarises recent advances in compounds that show anti-inflammatory effects by activating AMPK and attempts to comment on them.

Effects of Pterostilbene on Heart and Lung Oxidative Stress Parameters in 2 Experimental Models of Cardiovascular Disease: Myocardial Infarction and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

ABSTRACT

Myocardial infarction (MI) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are 2 prevalent cardiovascular diseases. In both conditions, oxidative stress is associated with a worse prognosis. Pterostilbene (PTE), an antioxidant compound, has been studied as a possible therapy for cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to evaluate the effect of PTE on oxidative stress in the hearts of animals with MI and in the lungs of animals with PAH. Male Wistar rats were used in both models. In the MI model, the experimental groups were sham, MI, and MI + PTE. In the PAH model, the experimental groups were control, PAH, and PAH + PTE. Animals were exposed to MI through surgical ligation of the left coronary artery, or to PAH, by the administration of monocrotaline (60 mg/kg). Seven days after undergoing cardiac injury, the MI + PTE animals were treated with PTE (100 mg/kg day) for 8 days. After this, the heart was collected for molecular analysis. The PAH + PTE animals were treated with PTE (100 mg/kg day) for 14 days, beginning 7 days after PAH induction. After this, the lungs were collected for biochemical evaluation. We found that PTE administration attenuated the decrease in ejection fraction and improved left ventricle end-systolic volume in infarcted animals. In the PAH model, PTE improved pulmonary artery flow and decreased reactive oxygen species levels in the lung. PTE administration promoted protective effects in terms of oxidative stress in 2 experimental models of cardiac diseases: MI and PAH. PTE also improved cardiac function in infarcted rats and pulmonary artery flow in animals with PAH.

AMPK Regulates M1 Macrophage Polarization through the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway to Attenuate Airway Inflammation in Obesity-Related Asthma

Abstract-Obesity-related asthma is primarily characterized by nonallergic inflammation, with pathogenesis involving oxidative stress, metabolic imbalance, and immunoinflammatory mechanisms. M1 macrophages, which predominantly secrete pro-inflammatory factors, mediate insulin resistance and systemic metabolic inflammation in obese individuals. Concurrently, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) serves as a critical regulator of intracellular energy metabolism and is closely associated with macrophage activation. However, their specific roles and associated mechanisms in obesity-related asthma remain to be explored. In this study, we investigated the macrophage polarization status and potential interventional mechanisms through obesity-related asthmatic models and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -treated RAW264.7 cell with a comprehensive series of evaluations, including HE, PAS and Masson staining of lung histopathology, immunohistochemical staining, immunofluorescence technology, qRT-PCR, Western Blot, and ELISA inflammatory factor analysis. The results revealed M1 macrophage polarization in obesity-related asthmatic lung tissue alongside downregulation of AMPK expression. Under LPS stimulation, exogenous AMPK activation attenuated M1 macrophage polarization via the Janus kinase 2/ signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling pathway. Additionally, in obesity-related asthmatic mice, AMPK activation was found to alleviate airway inflammation by regulating M1 macrophage polarization, the mechanism closely associated with the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. These findings not only advance our understanding of macrophage polarization in obesity-related asthma, but also provide new therapeutic targets for its treatment.

Indole-3-carbinol ameliorates ovarian damage in female old mice through Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation

Ovarian aging leads to infertility and birth defects. We aimed to clarify the role of Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) in resistance to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and fibrosis in ovarian aging. I3C was administered via intraperitoneal injection for 3 weeks in young or old mice. Immunohistochemistry; Masson, Sirius red, and TUNEL staining; follicle counting; estrous cycle analysis; and Western blotting were used for validating the protective effect of I3C against ovarian senescence. Human granulosa-like tumor cell line and primary granulosa cells were used for in vitro assay. The results indicated that I3C inhibited ovarian fibrosis and apoptosis while increasing the number of primordial follicles. Mechanistic studies have shown that I3C promoted the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). Additionally, I3C increased cell viability and decreased lactate dehydrogenase, malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species and JC-1 levels. Furthermore, the antioxidant effect of I3C was found to be dependent on the activation of Nrf2 and HO-1, as demonstrated by the disappearance of the effect upon inhibition of Nrf2 expression. In conclusion, I3C can alleviate the ovarian damage caused by aging and may be a protective agent to delay ovarian aging.

Exposure to atrazine stimulates progesterone secretion and induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the ovary of pseudopregnant rats

Atrazine (ATR) is one of the most commonly used herbicides worldwide. As an endocrine disruptor, it causes ovarian dysfunction, but the mechanism is unclear. We hypothesized that ATR could affect ovarian steroidogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. In the current study, rats aged 28 days were treated with PMSG and HCG to obtain amounts of corpora lutea. Then, rats were injected with ATR (50 mg/kg/day) or saline (0.9%) for 7 days. Sera were collected to detect biochemical indices and progesterone (P4) level, ovaries were collected for antioxidant status, HE, qPCR, and WB analysis. Results showed that ATR exposure affected growth performance as well as serum TP, GLB, and ALB levels, increased serum P4 level and ovarian mRNA and protein levels of StAR, CYP11A1, and HSD3B. ATR treatment increased ovarian mRNA and protein levels of CREB but not PKA expression. ATR treatment increased ovarian mRNA abundances of Nrf-2 and Nqo1, MDA level, and decreased SOD, GST, and T-AOC levels. ATR exposure increased the mRNA abundances of pro-inflammatory cytokines including Tnf-α, Il-1β, Il-6, Il-18, and Inos. ATR exposure increased the mRNA and protein level of Caspase 3 and the ratio of BAX/BCL-2. In conclusion, NRF-2/NQO1 signaling pathway and CREB might be involved in the regulation of ATR in luteal steroidogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in rat ovary.

Pterostilbene: a potential therapeutic agent for fibrotic diseases

Fibrosis is a prevailing pathology in chronic diseases and accounts for 45% of deaths in developed countries. This condition is primarily identified by the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and the overproduction of extracellular matrix (ECM) by myofibroblasts. Pterostilbene (PTS) is a natural analogue of resveratrol and is most commonly found in blueberries. Research has shown that PTS exerts a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. As a result, PTS has the potential to prevent and cure numerous diseases. Emerging evidence has indicated that PTS can alleviate myocardial fibrosis, renal fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, and colon fibrosis via the inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrogenesis effects in vivo and in vitro, and the potential mechanisms are linked to various pathways, including transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/small mother against decapentaplegic proteins (Smads) signalling, the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-driven Pitx2c/mir-15b pathway, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling, Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-associated protein-1 (Keap-1)/NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) cascade, the NLR family pyridine structure domain 3 (NLRP3) pathway, the Janus kinase-2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, and the Src/STAT3 pathway. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the antifibrotic effects of PTS both in vivo and in vitro and the pharmacological mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology of PTS and provide insights into and strategies for exploring promising agents for the treatment of fibrosis.

Involvement of Ferroptosis Induction and Oxidative Phosphorylation Inhibition in the Anticancer-Drug-Induced Myocardial Injury: Ameliorative Role of Pterostilbene

Patients with cancer die from cardiac dysfunction second only to the disease itself. Cardiotoxicity caused by anticancer drugs has been emphasized as a possible cause; however, the details remain unclear. To investigate this mechanism, we treated rat cardiomyoblast H9c2 cells with sunitinib, lapatinib, 5-fluorouracil, and cisplatin to examine their effects. All anticancer drugs increased ROS, lipid peroxide, and iron (II) levels in the mitochondria and decreased glutathione peroxidase-4 levels and the GSH/GSSG ratio. Against this background, mitochondrial iron (II) accumulates through the unregulated expression of haem oxygenase-1 and ferrochelatase. Anticancer-drug-induced cell death was suppressed by N-acetylcysteine, deferoxamine, and ferrostatin, indicating ferroptosis. Anticancer drug treatment impairs mitochondrial DNA and inhibits oxidative phosphorylation in H9c2 cells. Similar results were observed in the hearts of cancer-free rats treated with anticancer drugs in vitro. In contrast, treatment with pterostilbene inhibited the induction of ferroptosis and rescued the energy restriction induced by anticancer drugs both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that induction of ferroptosis and inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation are mechanisms by which anticancer drugs cause myocardial damage. As pterostilbene ameliorates these mechanisms, it is expected to have significant clinical applications.

E-Stilbenes: General Chemical and Biological Aspects, Potential Pharmacological Activity Based on the Nrf2 Pathway

Stilbenes are phytoalexins, and their biosynthesis can occur through a natural route (shikimate precursor) or an alternative route (in microorganism cultures). The latter is a metabolic engineering strategy to enhance production due to stilbenes recognized pharmacological and medicinal potential. It is believed that in the human body, these potential activities can be modulated by the regulation of the nuclear factor erythroid derived 2 (Nrf2), which increases the expression of antioxidant enzymes. Given this, our review aims to critically analyze evidence regarding E-stilbenes in human metabolism and the Nrf2 activation pathway, with an emphasis on inflammatory and oxidative stress aspects related to the pathophysiology of chronic and metabolic diseases. In this comprehensive literature review, it can be observed that despite the broad number of stilbenes, those most frequently explored in clinical trials and preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo) were resveratrol, piceatannol, pterostilbene, polydatin, stilbestrol, and pinosylvin. In some cases, depending on the dose/concentration and chemical nature of the stilbene, it was possible to identify activation of the Nrf2 pathway. Furthermore, the use of some experimental models presented a challenge in comparing results. In view of the above, it can be suggested that E-stilbenes have a relationship with the Nrf2 pathway, whether directly or indirectly, through different biological pathways, and in different diseases or conditions that are mainly related to inflammation and oxidative stress.

New Insights into Antioxidant Peptides: An Overview of Efficient Screening, Evaluation Models, Molecular Mechanisms, and Applications

Antioxidant peptides are currently a hotspot in food science, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In different fields, the screening, activity evaluation, mechanisms, and applications of antioxidant peptides are the pivotal areas of research. Among these topics, the efficient screening of antioxidant peptides stands at the forefront of cutting-edge research. To this end, efficient screening with novel technologies has significantly accelerated the research process, gradually replacing the traditional approach. After the novel antioxidant peptides are screened and identified, a time-consuming activity evaluation is another indispensable procedure, especially in in vivo models. Cellular and rodent models have been widely used for activity evaluation, whilst non-rodent models provide an efficient solution, even with the potential for high-throughput screening. Meanwhile, further research of molecular mechanisms can elucidate the essence underlying the activity, which is related to several signaling pathways, including Keap1-Nrf2/ARE, mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, TGF-β/SMAD, AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and NF-κB. Last but not least, antioxidant peptides have broad applications in food manufacture, therapy, and the cosmetics industry, which requires a systematic review. This review introduces novel technologies for the efficient screening of antioxidant peptides, categorized with a new vision. A wide range of activity evaluation assays, encompassing cellular models, as well as rodent and non-rodent models, are provided in a comprehensive manner. In addition, recent advances in molecular mechanisms are analyzed with specific cases. Finally, the applications of antioxidant peptides in food production, therapy, and cosmetics are systematically reviewed.

Polyphenols as potential preventers of osteoporosis: A comprehensive review on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, molecular mechanisms, and signal pathways in bone metabolism

Osteoporosis (OP) is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone density, alterations in bone microstructure, and increased damage to the bones. As the population ages and life expectancy increases, OP has become a global epidemic, drawing attention from scientists and doctors. Because of polyphenols have favorable antioxidant and anti-allergy effects, which are regarded as potential methods to prevent angiocardipathy and OP. Polyphenols offer a promising approach to preventing and treating OP by affecting bone metabolism, reducing bone resolution, maintaining bone density, and lowering the differentiation level of osteoclasts (OC). There are multiple ways in which polyphenols affect bone metabolism. This article provides an overview of how polyphenols inhibit oxidative stress, exert antibacterial effects, and prevent the occurrence of OP. Furthermore, we will explore the regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways implicated in this process.

Deletion of protein kinase C θ attenuates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury and further elucidates its mechanism in pathophysiology

Objectives

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (HIR) is a severe process in pathophysiology that occurs clinically in hepatectomy, and hepatic transplantations. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of PKC θ deletion against HIR injury and elucidate its mechanism in pathophysiology.

Materials and Methods

HIR injury was induced in wild-type and PKC θ deletion mice treated with or without heme. The ALT and AST levels were determined to evaluate liver function. HIR injury was observed via histological examination. Oxidative stress and inflammatory response markers, and their signaling pathways were detected.

Results

The study found that PKC θ knockout decreased serum AST and ALT levels when compared to the WT mice. Furthermore, heme treatment significantly reduced the ALT and AST levels of the PKC θ deletion mice compared with the untreated PKC θ deletion mice. PKC θ deletion markedly elevated superoxide dismutase activity in the liver tissue, reduced malondialdehyde content in the tissue, and the serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels compared with the WT mice. Heme treatment was observed to elevate the activity of SOD and reduced MDA content and serum of TNF-α and IL 6 in the PKC θ deletion animals. Meanwhile, heme treatment increased HO-1 and Nrf 2 protein expression, and reduced the levels of TLR4, phosphorylated NF-κB, and IKB-α.

Conclusion

These findings suggested that PKC θ deletion ameliorates HIR, and heme treatment further improves HIR, which is related to regulation of PKC θ deletion on Nrf 2/HO-1 and TLR4/NF-κB/IKB α pathway.

The Hepatic Antisteatosis Effect of Xanthohumol in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats Entails Activation of AMPK as a Possible Protective Mechanism

Obesity is the leading cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by provoking hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Low activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is linked to obesity, liver injury, and NAFLD. This study involves examining if the anti-steatosis effect of Xanthohumol (XH) in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats involves the regulation of AMPK. Adult male rats were divided into five groups (n = 8 each) as control (3.85 kcal/g); XH (control diet + 20 mg/kg), HFD (4.73 kcl/g), HFD + XH (20 mg/kg), and HFD + XH (30 mg/kg) + compound c (cc) (0.2 mg/kg). All treatments were conducted for 12 weeks. Treatment with XH attenuated the gain in body weight, fat pads, fasting glucose, and insulin in HFD rats. It also lowered serum leptin and free fatty acids (FFAs) and improved glucose and insulin tolerances in these rats. It also attenuated the increase in serum livers of liver marker enzymes and reduced serum and hepatic levels of triglycerides (TGs), cholesterol (CHOL), FFAs, as well as serum levels of low-density lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-c) oxidized LDL-c. XH also reduced hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nuclear accumulation of NF-κB, and the levels of tumor necrosis-factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) while stimulating the nuclear levels of Nrf2 and total levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in these HFD-fed rats. At the molecular levels, XH increased hepatic mRNA expression and phosphorylation of AMPK (Thr72) and reduced the expression of lipogenic genes SREBP1c and ACC-1. In concomitance, XH reduced hepatic liver droplet accumulation, reduced the number of apoptotic nuclei, and improved the structures of nuclei, mitochondria, and rough endoplasmic reticulum. Co-treatment with CC, an AMPK inhibitor, completely abolished all these effects of XH. In conclusion, XH attenuates obesity and HFD-mediated hepatic steatosis by activating hepatic AMPK.

Fecal microbiota transplantation from HUC-MSC-treated mice alleviates acute lung injury in mice through anti-inflammation and gut microbiota modulation

Introduction

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe respiratory tract disorder facilitated by dysregulated inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal ecosystem. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a rapid method for gut microbiota (GM) reconstruction. Furthermore, our previous studies have confirmed that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (HUC-MSCs) can alleviate ALI by improving GM composition. Therefore, we aimed to explore the efficacy and mechanism of FMT from HUC-MSCs-treated mice on ALI.

Methods

In brief, fresh feces from HUC-MSCs-treated mice were collected for FMT, and the mice were randomly assigned into NC, FMT, LPS, ABX-LPS, and ABX-LPS-FMT groups (n = 12/group). Subsequently, the mice were administrated with antibiotic mixtures to deplete GM, and given lipopolysaccharide and FMT to induce ALI and rebuild GM. Next, the therapeutic effect was evaluated by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and histopathology. Immune cells in peripheral blood and apoptosis in lung tissues were measured. Furthermore, oxidative stress- and inflammation-related parameter levels were tested in BALF, serum, lung and ileal tissues. The expressions of apoptosis-associated, TLR4/NF-κB pathway-associated, Nrf2/HO-1 pathway related and tightly linked proteins in the lung and ileal tissues were assessed. Moreover, 16S rRNA was conducted to assess GM composition and distribution.

Results

Our results revealed that FMT obviously improved the pathological damage of lung and ileum, recovered the immune system of peripheral blood, decreased the cell apoptosis of lung, and inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress in BALF, serum, lung and ileum tissues. Moreover, FMT also elevated ZO-1, claudin-1, and occludin protein expressions, activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway but hindering the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. Of note, the relative abundances of Bacteroides, Christensenella, Coprococcus, and Roseburia were decreased, while the relative abundances of Xenorhabdus, Sutterella, and Acinetobacter were increased in the ABX-LPS-FMT group.

Conclusion

FMT from HUC-MSCs-treated mice may alleviate ALI by inhibiting inflammation and reconstructing GM, additionally, we also found that the TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways may involve in the improvement of FMT on ALI, which offers novel insights for the functions and mechanisms of FMT from HUC-MSCs-treated mice on ALI.

Plumbagin alleviates obesity-related asthma: Targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, and the AMPK pathway

BACKGROUND

Obesity-related asthma, a specific type of asthma, tends to have more severe symptoms and more frequent exacerbations, and it is insensitive to standard medications. Plumbagin (PLB) has many positive effects on human health. However, it remains unclear whether PLB protects against obesity-related asthma. The study investigated the effect of PLB on obesity-related asthma.

METHODS

Four-week-old male C57BL6/J mice were fed either standard-chow diet or high-fat diet (HFD). The mice were sensitized to 100 μg ovalbumin (OVA) once a week and intraperitoneally injected with 1 mg/kg PLB once daily from Week 10 to 11 and then challenged with 10 μg OVA twice a day on Week 12. The lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected 48 h after the first OVA challenge.

RESULTS

HFD enhanced inflammatory cell infiltration within the airways and increased total inflammatory cell and eosinophil counts, levels of eosinophil-related inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, and eotaxin in BALF, and oxidative stress in the lung tissues of asthmatic mice. PLB reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the airway walls, levels of eosinophil-related inflammatory cytokines in BALF, and oxidative stress in lung tissues of obese asthmatic mice. In addition, PLB restored HFD-induced decreases in adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

The study suggested that HFD exacerbated inflammation and oxidative stress, while PLB probably alleviated inflammation and oxidative stress and activated AMPK pathway to attenuate obesity-associated asthma. Thus, PLB likely had the potential to treat obesity-related asthma.

Study of anti-fatigue activity of polysaccharide from fruiting bodies of Armillaria gallica

Fatigue is a common physiological response that is closely related to energy metabolism. Polysaccharides, as excellent dietary supplements, have been proven to have a variety of pharmacological activities. In this study, A 23.007 kDa polysaccharide from Armillaria gallica (AGP) was purified and performed structural characterization, including analysis of homogeneity, molecular weight and monosaccharide composition. Methylation analysis is used to analyze the glycosidic bond composition of AGP. The mouse model of acute fatigue was used to evaluate the anti-fatigue effect of AGP. AGP-treatment improved exercise endurance in mice and reduced fatigue symptoms caused by acute exercise. AGP regulated the levels of adenosine triphosphate, lactic acid, blood urea nitrogen and lactate dehydrogenase, muscle glycogen and liver glycogen of acute fatigue mice. AGP affected the composition of intestinal microbiota, the changes of some intestinal microorganisms are correlated with fatigue and oxidative stress indicators. Meanwhile, AGP reduced oxidative stress levels, increased antioxidant enzyme activity and regulated the AMP-dependent protein kinase/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway. AGP exerted an anti-fatigue effect through modulation of oxidative stress, which is related to intestinal microbiota.

GliSODin® prevents airway inflammation by inhibiting T-cell differentiation and activation in a mouse model of asthma

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by a prevailing type 2 inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and mucus hypersecretion and is driven by various factors among which oxidative molecules, called reactive oxygen species (ROS), play a major role. Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are enzymes that constitute the first line of defense against ROS. Melon SOD-gliadin, which is known as GliSODin®, is commonly used as a nutritional supplement that has proven antioxidant properties.

Objectives

In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and mechanism of action GliSODin® in the treatment of allergic asthma.

Methods

House dust mite (HDM)-induced asthmatic mice were orally exposed to GliSODin®, and airway hyperresponsiveness, lung inflammation, in vitro T-cell polarization, in vivo T-cell reactivation, and blood immunoglobulin were investigated.

Results

GliSODin® reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, lung innate and adaptive immune response, and HDM-specific IgE production. Coculturing CD4+ T-cell with HDM-sensitized dendritic cells and GliSODin® reduced T-cell polarization into Th2 and Th17 cells. Moreover, adoptively transferred CD4+ T cells from asthmatic mice exhibited a reduced reactivation of Th2 and Th17 cells following stimulation with HDM plus GliSODin®.

Conclusion

GliSODin® abrogates asthma features and reduces CD4+ T-cell polarization and reactivation. Taken together, these data suggest that GliSODin® could be used for the management of asthma symptoms.

Pterostilbene mediates glial and immune responses to alleviate chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced oxidative stress in nerve cells

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) induces oxidative stress in the brain, causing sleep disorders. Herein, we investigated the role of pterostilbene (Pte) in CIH-mediated oxidative stress in the brain tissue. A CIH mouse model was constructed by alternately reducing and increasing oxygen concentration in a sealed box containing the mouse; brain tissue and serum were then collected after intragastric administration of Pte. Neurological function was evaluated through field experiments. The trajectory of the CIH mice to the central region initially decreased and then increased after Pte intervention. Pte increased the number of neuronal Nissl bodies in the hippocampus of CIH mice, upregulated the protein levels of Bcl-2, occludin, and ZO-1 as well as the mRNA and protein levels of cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and p-BDNF, and reduced the number of neuronal apoptotic cells, Bax protein levels, IBA-1, and GFAP levels. Simultaneously, Pte reversed the decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and BDNF and increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum of CIH mice. Pte increased Th2 cells, Treg cells, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1 levels and decreased Th1 cells, Th17 cells, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL- 17A levels in activated BV2 cells and hippocampus in CIH mice. The protein levels of p-ERK1/2, TLR4, p-p38, p-p65, and Bax, apoptosis rate, MDA concentration, Bcl-2 protein level, cell viability, and SOD and GSH-PX concentrations decreased after the activation of BV2 cells. Pte inhibited gliocytes from activating T-cell immune imbalance through p-ERK signaling to alleviate oxidative stress injury in nerve cells.

Exosomal miR-663b from "M1" macrophages promotes pulmonary artery vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction through inhibiting the AMPK/Sirt1 axis

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory mediators from macrophages are proven to be involved in pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension (PH). Here, this study intends to explore the mechanism of "M1" macrophage-derived exosomal miR-663b in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) dysfunctions and pulmonary hypertension.

METHODS

Hypoxia-treated PASMCs were utilized for constructing an in-vitro pulmonary hypertension model. THP-1 cells were treated with PMA (320 nM) and LPS (10 μg/mL) + IFN-γ (20 ng/ml) for eliciting macrophage "M1" polarization. Exosomes derived from "M1" macrophages were isolated and added into PASMCs. The proliferation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and migration of PASMCs were evaluated. RT-PCR or Western blot examined the levels of miR-663b and the AMPK/Sirt1 pathway. Dual luciferase activity assay and RNA pull-down assay were carried out for confirming the targeted association between miR-663b and AMPK. An in-vivo PH model was built. Macrophage-derived exosomes with miR-663b inhibition were used for treating the rats, and alterations of pulmonary histopathology were monitored.

RESULTS

miR-663b was obviously up-regulated in hypoxia-elicited PASMCs and M1 macrophages. miR-663b overexpression boosted hypoxia-induced proliferation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and migration in PASMCs, whereas miR-663b low expression resulted in the opposite situation. AMPK was identified as a target of miR-663b, and miR-663b overexpression curbed the AMPK/Sirt1 pathway. AMPK activation ameliorated the damaging impact of miR-663b overexpression and "M1" macrophage exosomes on PASMCs. In vivo, "M1" macrophage exosomes with miR-663b low expression alleviated pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension rats.

CONCLUSION

Exosomal miR-663b from "M1" macrophage facilitates PASMC dysfunctions and PH development by dampening the AMPK/Sirt1 axis.

Inhibition of lincRNA-Cox2 alleviates apoptosis and inflammatory injury of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human bronchial epithelial cells via the Nrf2/HO-1 axis

This study mainly explored the role and mechanism of lincRNA-Cox2 in inflammatory injury of human bronchial epithelial cells. BEAS-2B cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide to establish an in vitro inflammatory injury model. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect lincRNA-Cox2 expression in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B. Cell viability and apoptosis of cells were assessed using CCK-8 and Annexin V-PI double staining. The contents of inflammatory factors were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The protein levels of nuclear factor erythrocyte 2-related factor 2 and haem oxygenase 1 protein levels were measured by Western blot. The results showed that lincRNA-Cox2 was upregulated in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. lincRNA-Cox2 knockdown inhibited apoptosis and the release of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1beta (IL-1β), IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in BEAS-2B cells. lincRNA-Cox2 overexpression had the opposite effect. lincRNA-Cox2 knockdown also inhibited LPS-induced oxidative damage in BEAS-2B cells. Further mechanistic studies showed that inhibition of lincRNA-Cox2 upregulated the levels of Nrf2 and HO-1, and si-Nrf2 reversed the effects of si-lincRNA-Cox2. In conclusion, lincRNA-Cox2 knockdown inhibited BEAS-2B apoptosis and the level of inflammatory factors by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Oxidative Stress and Air Pollution: Its Impact on Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Redox regulation participates in the control of various aspects of metabolism. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species participate in many reactions under physiological conditions. When these species overcome the antioxidant defense system, a distressed status emerges, increasing biomolecular damage and leading to functional alterations. Air pollution is one of the exogenous sources of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Ambient airborne particulate matter (PM) is important because of its complex composition, which includes transition metals and organic compounds. Once in contact with the lungs' epithelium, PM components initiate the synthesis of inflammatory mediators, macrophage activation, modulation of gene expression, and the activation of transcription factors, which are all related to the physiopathology of chronic respiratory diseases, including cancer. Even though the pathophysiological pathways that give rise to the development of distress and biological damage are not fully understood, scientific evidence indicates that redox-dependent signaling pathways are involved. This article presents an overview of the redox interaction of air pollution inside the human body and the courses related to chronic respiratory diseases.

Exploring the Neuroprotective Mechanism of Curcumin Inhibition of Intestinal Inflammation against Parkinson's Disease Based on the Gut-Brain Axis

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease commonly seen in aged people, in which gastrointestinal dysfunction is the most common nonmotor symptom and the activation of the gut-brain axis by intestinal inflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis of PD. In a previous study, curcumin was considered neuroprotective in PD, and this neuroprotective mechanism may act by inhibiting intestinal inflammation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of curcumin on motor dysfunction and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in a PD mouse model, induced by N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) using open field test and pole test behavioral assessments and the immunofluorescence and Western blot methods. Moreover, the effects of curcumin on gastrointestinal dysfunction, gastric barrier function, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the SIRT1/NRF2 pathway in intestinal tissues in a PD mouse model were assessed using fecal parameters and intestinal dynamics, immunofluorescence, ELISA, and Western blot. A motor impairment study of an MPTP-induced mouse group prior to treatment with curcumin had a lower total movement distance and a slow average speed, while there was no statistical difference in the curcumin group. After treatment with curcumin, the total movement distance and average speed improved, the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) rate in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and striatum were reduced, the pyroptosis of AIM2 and caspase-1 activations were inhibited, and intestinal inflammatory factors and intestinal inflammation were reduced. Curcumin improved gastrointestinal disorders and gastrointestinal barrier function in the MPTP-induced mice and reversed MPTP-induced motor dysfunction and dopaminergic neuron loss in mice. The above effects may be partly dependent on curcumin activation of the SIRT1/NRF2 pathway in the colon. This study provides a potential opportunity to develop new preventive measures and novel therapeutic approaches that could target the gut-brain axis in the context of PD and provide a new intervention in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Roles of sirtuins in asthma

Sirtuins are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)-dependent lysine deacylases and deacetylases that participate in a variety of cellular processes, including transcriptional activity, energy metabolism, DNA damage response, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and oxidative stress. As a result, sirtuins are linked to multiple pathophysiological processes, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and respiratory diseases. Asthma is the most common respiratory disease, which is characterized by airway inflammation and airway remodeling. Accumulating evidence has indicated that sirtuins are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Furthermore, some studies have suggested that sirtuin modulators are potential agents for the treatment of asthma via alteration of the expression or activity of sirtuins. In this review, we illustrate the role of sirtuins in asthma, discuss related molecular mechanisms, and evaluate the sirtuins-targeted therapy for asthma.

Hyperoside ameliorates TNF‑α‑induced inflammation, ECM degradation and ER stress‑mediated apoptosis via the SIRT1/NF‑κB and Nrf2/ARE signaling pathways in vitro

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the main pathogenesis of numerous cases of chronic neck and back pain, and has become the leading cause of spinal-related disability worldwide. Hyperoside is an active flavonoid glycoside that exhibits anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and anti-apoptosis effects. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of hyperoside on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced IDD progression in human nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) and its potential mechanism. The activity and apoptosis of NPCs were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry analyses, respectively. The expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β was detected with ELISA kits. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of proteins. The results showed that hyperoside effectively alleviated TNF-α-induced NPC apoptosis, and hyperoside treatment inhibited the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, IL-1β and IL-6 in TNF-α-stimulated NPCs. Compared with the findings in the TNF-α group, the intervention of hyperoside attenuated the upregulated expression of aggrecan and collagen II, and downregulated the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3, MMP13 and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 5. In addition, hyperoside upregulated sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein expression, and inhibition of SIRT1 or Nrf2 signaling reversed the protective effect of hyperoside on TNF-α-induced NPCs. In summary, hyperoside ameliorated TNF-α-induced inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis, which may be associated with the regulation of the SIRT1/NF-κB and Nrf2/antioxidant responsive element signaling pathways by hyperoside.

Korean Red Ginseng Ameliorates Allergic Asthma through Reduction of Lung Inflammation and Oxidation

Six-year-old red ginseng, which is processed from the whole ginseng root via steaming and drying, has been shown to have preventive effects such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma and the underlying mechanisms involved. We injected 20 µg of OVA on days 0 and 14, and mice were challenged with aerosolized OVA via a nebulizer for 1 h on days 21, 22, and 23. KRG was administered at 100 and 300 mg/kg from days 18 to 23. The KRG-treated mice showed significant reductions in their airway hyperresponsiveness, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the number of inflammatory cells compared with the OVA-treated mice. The levels of type 2 cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and expression of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E in the serum, which were elevated in the OVA group, were reduced in the KRG-treated groups. The pro-inflammatory factors, inducible nitric oxide synthase and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, were downregulated by the KRG administration in a dose-dependent manner. KRG effectively suppressed the inflammatory response by inhibiting ROS production. Our results suggest that KRG may have the potential to alleviate asthma.

AMPK signaling in diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance and diabetic complications: A pre-clinical and clinical investigation

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered as a main challenge in both developing and developed countries, as lifestyle has changed and its management seems to be vital. Type I and type II diabetes are the main kinds and they result in hyperglycemia in patients and related complications. The gene expression alteration can lead to development of DM and related complications. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an energy sensor with aberrant expression in various diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and DM. The present review focuses on understanding AMPK role in DM. Inducing AMPK signaling promotes glucose in DM that is of importance for ameliorating hyperglycemia. Further investigation reveals the role of AMPK signaling in enhancing insulin sensitivity for treatment of diabetic patients. Furthermore, AMPK upregulation inhibits stress and cell death in β cells that is of importance for preventing type I diabetes development. The clinical studies on diabetic patients have shown the role of AMPK signaling in improving diabetic complications such as brain disorders. Furthermore, AMPK can improve neuropathy, nephropathy, liver diseases and reproductive alterations occurring during DM. For exerting such protective impacts, AMPK signaling interacts with other molecular pathways such as PGC-1α, PI3K/Akt, NOX4 and NF-κB among others. Therefore, providing therapeutics based on AMPK targeting can be beneficial for amelioration of DM.