Effects of allyl isothiocyanate on insulin resistance, oxidative stress status, and transcription factors in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus in rats

Effect of cruciferous vegetable intake on cancer: An umbrella review of meta-analysis

Previous systematic evaluations and meta-analyses of the relationship between cruciferous vegetable (CV) intake and cancer risk have yielded inconsistent results. Herein, we summarize and evaluate the existing data and examine the relationship between CV intake and cancer risk. We searched four databases for cancer risk as a key outcome indicator. AMSTAR-2 was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included systematic reviews, PRISMA 2020 was used to evaluate the report quality, and corrected coverage area analysis was used to evaluate the duplication rate of the original documents. Overall, 22 meta-analyses involving 175 independent cancer studies were included. Evidence on lung, gastric, prostate, breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer, as well as renal cell carcinoma, suggests a potential association between cancer and CV intake, which influences the risk of various cancers. Future research should focus on improving methods and techniques, controlling influencing factors, elucidating underlying mechanisms, and improving evidence quality to demonstrate the association between CV intake and cancer. The potential role of dietary CVs in cancer control has implications for public health policies.

The impact of magnesium biotinate and arginine silicate complexes on metabolic dysfunctions, antioxidant activity, inflammation, and neuromodulation in high-fat diet-fed rats

Biotin and arginine play crucial roles in lipid metabolism and may offer promising interventions against obesity. This study examined the combined effect of magnesium biotinate (MgB) and inositol-stabilized arginine silicate complex (ASI) on obesity-related oxidative imbalance, inflammation, lipid metabolism and neuromodulation in rats on a high-fat diet (HFD). Forty rats were divided into five groups: (a) control: rats were fed a standard diet containing 12% of energy from fat; (b) HFD: rats were fed the HFD with 42% of energy from fat; (c) HFD + MgB: rats were fed the HFD and given 0.31 mg/kg body weight (BW) MgB, (d) HFD + ASI: rats were fed the HFD and were given 12.91 mg/kg BW ASI), and (e) HFD + MgB + ASI: rats were fed the HFD and given 0.31 mg/kg BW MgB and 12.91 mg/kg BW ASI). The combined administration of MgB and ASI reduced the levels of serum cholesterol, free fatty acid (FFA), and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as liver inflammatory cytokines, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1-c (SREBP-1c), and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) proteins (P < 0.001) compared to HFD rats without supplementation. Moreover, this combination increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (P < 0.05) and boosted the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), serotonin, dopamine (P < 0.001), as well as liver insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that combining MgB and ASI could deter liver fat accumulation and enhance lipid metabolism in HFD-fed rats by modulating various metabolic pathways and neuromodulators related to energy metabolism. This combination demonstrates potential in addressing obesity and its related metabolic dysfunctions.

Allyl isothiocyanate, a TRPA1 agonist, protects against olanzapine-induced hypothalamic and hepatic metabolic aberrations in female mice

Olanzapine, a widely prescribed atypical antipsychotic, poses a great risk to the patient's health by fabricating a plethora of severe metabolic and cardiovascular adverse effects eventually reducing life expectancy and patient compliance. Its heterogenous receptor binding profile has made it difficult to point out a specific cause or treatment for the related side effects. Growing body of evidence suggest that transient receptor potential (TRP) channel subfamily Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) has pivotal role in pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and obesity. With this background, we aimed to investigate the role of pharmacological manipulations of TRPA1 channels in antipsychotic (olanzapine)-induced metabolic alterations in female mice using allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) and HC-030031 (TRPA1 agonist and antagonist, respectively). It was found that after 6 weeks of treatment, AITC prevented olanzapine-induced alterations in body weight and adiposity; serum, and liver inflammatory markers; glucose and lipid metabolism; and hypothalamic appetite regulation, nutrient sensing, inflammatory and TRPA1 channel signaling regulating genes. Furthermore, several of these effects were absent in the presence of HC-030031 (TRPA1 antagonist) indicating protective role of TRPA1 agonism in attenuating olanzapine-induced metabolic alterations. Supplementary in-depth studies are required to study TRPA1 channel effect on other aspects of olanzapine-induced metabolic alterations.

Isothiocyanates in medicine: A comprehensive review on phenylethyl-, allyl-, and benzyl-isothiocyanates

In recent years, isothiocyanates (ITCs), bioactive compounds primarily derived from Brassicaceae vegetables and herbs, have gained significant attention within the biomedical field due to their versatile biological effects. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth exploration of the therapeutic potential and individual biological mechanisms of the three specific ITCs phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), and benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), as well as their collective impact within the formulation of ANGOCIN® Anti-Infekt N (Angocin). Angocin comprises horseradish root (Armoracia rusticanae radix, 80 mg) and nasturtium (Tropaeoli majoris herba, 200 mg) and is authorized for treating inflammatory diseases affecting the respiratory and urinary tract. The antimicrobial efficacy of this substance has been confirmed both in vitro and in various clinical trials, with its primary effectiveness attributed to ITCs. PEITC, AITC, and BITC exhibit a wide array of health benefits, including potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, along with noteworthy anticancer potentials. Moreover, we highlight their ability to modulate critical biochemical pathways, such as the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways, shedding light on their involvement in cellular apoptosis and their intricate role to guide immune responses.

Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) may alleviate the effect of high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetes by activation of the GSK-3β/Fyn/Nrf2 pathway

Mango ginger (MG) exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperglycemic effects; however, the exact mechanism of action of MG extract in relation to its antidiabetic properties remains unclear. To investigate the potential antidiabetic effect of MG extract, we used a high-fat diet (HFD)/low-dose streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetic rat model. A total of 28 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: (i) Control, (ii) MG (50 mg/kg/day of MG extract), (iii) HFD + STZ (40 mg/kg i.p.), and (iv) HFD + STZ + MG. Following a 12-week administration of MG extract, significant reductions were observed in serum glucose, insulin, free fatty acid, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats (p < .0001 for all). MG extract supplementation led to an increase in the total antioxidant capacity of the serum and a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in both the serum and liver (p < .0001). Furthermore, hepatocellular fat accumulation was partially attenuated in the HFD + STZ + MG group. Notably, MG extract inhibited glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) in the liver (p < .01) and downregulated Fyn expression, resulting in elevated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity in the HFD + STZ + MG group compared to the HFD + STZ group (p < .05). The increased activity of Nrf2 in the HFD + STZ + MG group likely promoted the upregulation of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in the liver (p < .0001). In conclusion, MG extract may exert antidiabetic effects by augmenting the antioxidant defense system through the regulation of GSK-3β/Fyn/Nrf2 in a rat model of type 2 diabetes.

Electrophilic Agonists Modulate the Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin-1 Channels Mediated by Insulin and Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Secretion for Glucose Homeostasis

This pre-clinical study investigated the transient receptor potential ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) channels on modulating targets for glucose homeostasis using agonists: the electrophilic agonists, cinnamaldehyde (CIN) and allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), and the non-electrophilic agonist, carvacrol (CRV). A glucose tolerance test was performed on rats. CIN and AITC (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) or CRV (25, 100, 300, and 600 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally (i.p.), and glycemia was measured. In the intestine, Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and disaccharidase activity were evaluated (in vivo and in vitro, respectively). Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro insulin secretion was determined. Islets were used to measure insulin secretion and calcium influx. CIN and AITC improved glucose tolerance and increased insulin secretion in vivo and in vitro. CRV was unable to reduce glycemia. Electrophilic agonists, CIN and AITC, inhibited disaccharidases and acted as secretagogues in the intestine by inducing GLP-1 release in vivo and in vitro and contributed to insulin secretion and glycemia. The effect of CIN on calcium influx in pancreatic islets (insulin secretion) involves voltage-dependent calcium channels and calcium from stores. TRPA1 triggers calcium influx and potentiates intracellular calcium release to induce insulin secretion, suggesting that electrophilic agonists mediate this signaling transduction for the control of glycemia.

Liraglutide ameliorates diabetic-induced testicular dysfunction in male rats: role of GLP-1/Kiss1/GnRH and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways

Introduction: Glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1) is released by intestinal cells to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin release from the pancreas. GLP-1 has been linked to ameliorating obesity and/or diabetic complications as well as controlling reproductive function. Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) with 97% homology with GLP-1. The main objective of this study was to investigate the ameliorative role of liraglutide in diabetic-induced reproductive dysfunction in male rats. Methods: Rats were randomly allocated into 3 groups; a control group, a diabetic group, and a liraglutide-treated diabetic group. Results: In the diabetic group, a significant increase in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, TC, TAG, LDL, IL6, TNFα, and MDA, as well as decreased serum insulin, HDL, GSH, total testosterone, LH, and FSH, were shown compared to the control group. Furthermore, A significant downregulation in relative hypothalamic gene expression of GLP-1R, PPAR-α, PGC-1α, kiss, kiss1R, leptin, leptin R, GnRH GLP-1R, testicular PGC-1α, PPARα, kiss1, kiss1R, STAR, CYP17A1, HSD17B3, CYP19A, CYP11A1, and Smad7, as well as upregulation in hypothalamic GnIH and testicular TGF- β and Smad2 expression, were noticed compared to the control group. Liraglutide treatment significantly improved such functional and structural reproductive disturbance in diabetic rats. Conclusion: GLP-1RAs ameliorated the deleterious effects of diabetes on reproductive function by targeting GLP-1/leptin/kiss1/GnRH, steroidogenesis, and TGF- β/Smad pathways.

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) modulators: Recent update and future perspective

The transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel is a non-selective cation channel that senses irritant chemicals. Its activation is closely associated with pain, inflammation, and pruritus. TRPA1 antagonists are promising treatments for these diseases, and there has been a recent upsurge in their application to new areas such as cancer, asthma, and Alzheimer's disease. However, due to the generally disappointing performance of TRPA1 antagonists in clinical studies, scientists must pursue the development of antagonists with higher selectivity, metabolic stability, and solubility. Moreover, TRPA1 agonists provide a deeper understanding of activation mechanisms and aid in antagonist screening. Therefore, we summarize the TRPA1 antagonists and agonists developed in recent years, with a particular focus on structure-activity relationships (SARs) and pharmacological activity. In this perspective, we endeavor to keep abreast of cutting-edge ideas and provide inspiration for the development of more effective TRPA1-modulating drugs.

Arbutin ameliorates hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and oxidative stress and modulates adipocytokines and PPARγ in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Arbutin is a glycosylated hydroquinone with antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemia effects. However, its beneficial effects in type 2 diabetes (T2D) were not clarified. This study evaluated the effect of arbutin on hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response in T2D. Rats induced by high fat diet and streptozotocin were treated with arbutin (25 and 50 mg/kg for 4 weeks). Diabetic rats exhibited glucose intolerance, elevated HbA1c%, reduced insulin, and high HOMA-IR. Liver glycogen and hexokinase activity were decreased in T2D rats while glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), fructose-1,6- biphosphatase (FBPase), and glycogen phosphorylase were upregulated. Circulating and hepatic cholesterol and triglycerides and serum transaminases were elevated in T2D rats. Arbutin ameliorated hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, insulin deficiency and resistance, and liver glycogen and alleviated the activity of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes. Both doses of arbutin decreased serum transaminases and resistin, and liver lipids, TNF-α, IL-6, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, downregulated liver resistin and fatty acid synthase, and increased serum and liver adiponectin, and liver reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). These effects were associated with the upregulation of hepatic PPARγ. Arbutin inhibited α-glucosidase in vitro and in silico investigations revealed the ability of arbutin to bind PPARγ, hexokinase, and α-glucosidase. In conclusion, arbutin effectively ameliorated glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress, and modulated carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, antioxidants, adipokines and PPARγ in T2D in rats.

Allyl isothiocyanate dry powder inhaler based on cyclodextrin-metal organic frameworks for pulmonary delivery

In this study, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) was prepared as the dry powder inhalation by loading cyclodextrin metal-organic framework (CD-MOF) to enhance pulmonary delivery. β-CD-MOF and γ-CD-MOF both could be used to carry AITC with the optimal loading conditions (50˚C, n _CD: n _AITC = 1:7, 7 h). Compared with β-CD-MOF, γ-CD-MOF had more advantages in AITC loading due to its high drug loading and stable crystal morphology. The particle size and the mass median aerodynamic diameter of γ-CD-MOF-AITC were accorded with the aerodynamic characteristics of lung inhalation. γ-CD-MOF-AITC might be deposited effectively in the deep lung, and the release rate of AITC reached over 90% within 5 min. Meanwhile, it had good pulmonary local tolerance, permeability, and no significant toxicity. Such results indicated that γ-CD-MOF could be used as a dry powder inhaler carrier to deliver safely AITC to lung and increase its pulmonary absorption.

Regulation of transient receptor potential channels by traditional Chinese medicines and their active ingredients

In recent years, activation of thermal transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels at a range of temperatures has received widespread attention as a target for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to regulate body temperature and relieve pain. Discovery of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) was awarded a Nobel Prize, reflecting the importance of these channels. Here, the regulatory effects of TCMs and their active ingredients on TRP ion channels are reviewed, and future directions for research on the cold, hot, warm, cool, and neutral natures of TCMs are considered. In herbs with cold, hot, warm, cool, and neutral natures, we found 29 TCMs with regulatory effects on TRP ion channels, including Cinnamomi Cortex, Capsici Fructus, Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, Macleayae cordatae Herba, Menthae Haplocalycis Herba, and Rhodiolae Crenulatae Radix et Rhizoma. Although some progress has been made in understanding the regulation of TRP ion channels by TCMs and their ingredients, the molecular mechanism by which TCMs have this effect remains to be further studied. We hope this review will provide a reference for further research on the cold, hot, warm, cool, and neutral natures of TCMs.

Effects of Allyl Isothiocyanate on Oxidative and Inflammatory Stress in Type 2 Diabetic Rats

Oxidative stress and inflammation play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetes. Currently, there is a growing need to exploit plant-derived bioactive compounds to support conventional therapies. The purpose of this study was to explore allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) potency in reducing oxidative and inflammatory stress along with its profitable modulation trace element status in pathological conditions such as diabetes. Two weeks of oral AITC treatments (2.5, 5, and 25 mg/kg body weight per day) were evaluated in Wistar rats with diabetes induced by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin. The study included AITC influence on antioxidant factors (SOD, CAT, GST, Nrf2), stress and inflammatory markers (cortisol, CRP, IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, NF-κB), lipid peroxidation indices (TBARS, -SH groups), and trace element status (Fe, Zn, and Cu) in the detoxification and lymphoid organs. Independently of dose, AITC increased cortisol levels in rat blood serum and decreased total thiol groups (T-SH) and protein-bound thiol groups (PB-SH) collaterally with raised thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in diabetic rat liver. The inflammation and oxidative effects were enhanced by an AITC dose increase. The highest dose of AITC, 25 mg/kg b.w., strongly affected the inflammation process by increasing IL-6, IL-1β, and TNFα in the blood serum, and it upregulated Nrf2 transcription factor with increased SOD, GPx, and GST activities in the liver. AITC showed an equivocal effect on profitable modulation of disturbances in mineral homeostasis in the liver, kidney, and spleen. Our findings revealed that two-week AITC treatment exacerbated oxidative and inflammation status in diabetic rats.

Glycolipid Metabolism and Metagenomic Analysis of the Therapeutic Effect of a Phenolics-Rich Extract from Noni Fruit on Type 2 Diabetic Mice

The phenolics of noni fruit possess antihyperglycemic activity; however, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To understand the potential effects it has on type 2 diabetes (T2D), the glycolipid metabolism and gut microbiota regulation of phenolic-rich extracts from noni fruit (NFEs) were investigated. The results indicated that NFE could remarkably ameliorate hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and glycolipid metabolism via the adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in T2D mice. Furthermore, metagenomic sequencing results revealed that NFE intervention modulated the gut microbiota composition in T2D mice, characterized by increased abundance of unclassified_o_Bacteroidales, Alistipes, Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia and decreased abundance of Oscillibacter, Desulfovibrio, and significantly decreased the pathways related to carbohydrate metabolism, translation, amino acid metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism. Taken together, the results provided new evidence that the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of NFE in T2D were likely attributed to the activation of the liver AMPK pathway and modulation of gut microbiota.

Role of Plant Derived Products Through Exhilarating Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor-γ (ppar-γ) in the Amelioration of Obesity Induced Insulin Resistance

Abstract:

Insulin resistance is an elemental facet of the etiology of diabetes mellitus and the principal relating factor between obesity and diabetes. Oxidative stress, lipotoxicity, inflammation and receptor dysfunction are the underlying determinants of insulin resistance commencement in metabolic illnesses. ppar-γ is a nuclear transcription factor whose activation or inhibition directly influences insulin resistance and controls glucose and lipid homeostasis by modulating gene expression. Synthetic ligands of ppar-γ are therapeutically employed to counter the hyper-glycaemia associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, but they possess severe side effects. In the modern era, bioactive phytochemicals have been employed in the drug development process and a considerable investigation has recently been initiated to analyze the ppar-γ activating ability of diverse phytochemicals. In this review, we outlined the role of phytochemicals in insulin resistance treatment through ppar-γ activation.

Anticancer effect of Selenium/Chitosan/Polyethylene glycol/Allyl isothiocyanate nanocomposites against diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer in rats

Background

Nano-based drug delivery systems have shown several advantages in cancer treatment like specific targeting of cancer cells, good pharmacokinetics, and lesser adverse effects. Liver cancer is a fifth most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer-related mortalities worldwide.

Objective

The present study focusses to formulate the selenium (S)/chitosan (C)/polyethylene glycol (Pg)/allyl isothiocyanate (AI) nanocomposites (SCPg-AI-NCs) and assess its therapeutic properties against the diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver cancer in rats via inhibition of oxidative stress and tumor markers.

Methodology

The SCPg-AI-NCs were synthesized by ionic gelation technique and characterized by various characterization techniques. The liver cancer was induced to the rats by injecting a DEN (200 mg/kg) on the 8th day of experiment. Then DEN-induced rats treated with 10 mg/kg of formulated SCPg-AI-NCs an hour before DEN administration for 16 weeks. The 8-hydroxy-2′ -deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) content, albumin, globulin, and total protein were examined by standard methods. The level of glutathione (GSH), vitamin-C & -E, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities were examined using assay kits. The liver marker enzymes i.e., alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate tansaminase (AST), γ-glutamyl transaminase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), Bax, and Bcl-2 levels, and caspase-3&9 activities was examined using assay kits and the liver histopathology was assessed microscopically by hematoxylin and eosin staining method. The effect of formulated SCPg-AI-NCs on the viability and apoptotic cell death on the HepG2 cells were examined using MTT and dual staining assays, respectively.

Results

The results of different characterization studies demonstrated the formation of SCPg-AI-NCs with tetragonal shape, narrowed distribution, and size ranging from 390 to 450 nm. The formulated SCPg-AI-NCs treated liver cancer rats indicated the reduced levels of 8-OHdG, albumin, globulin, and total protein. The SCPg-AI-NCs treatment appreciably improved the GSH, vitamin-C & -E contents, and SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR activities in the serum of liver cancer rats. The SCPg-AI-NCs treatment remarkably reduced the liver marker enzyme activities in the DEN-induced rats. The SCPg-AI-NCs treatment decreased the AFP and CEA contents and enhanced the Bax and caspase 3&9 activities in the DEN-induced rats. The SCPg-AI-NCs effectively decreased the cell viability and induced apoptosis in the HepG2 cells.

Conclusion

The present findings suggested that the formulated SCPg-AI-NCs remarkably inhibited the DEN-induced liver carcinogenesis in rats. These findings provide an evidence that SCPg-AI-NCs can be a promising anticancer nano-drug in the future to treat the liver carcinogenesis.

Differentiated Effects of Allyl Isothiocyanate in Diabetic Rats: From Toxic to Beneficial Action

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a constituent of Brassica family plants, has been reported to possess a high bioactivity in animal and human cells, showing ambiguous properties from adverse to beneficial ones. It was reported its genotoxic, carcinogenic, goitrogenic effects. On the other side, AITC has shown anti-cancer, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and lately anti-obesity abilities. So far, its anti-diabetic effects are poorly explored. We tried to assess AITC action on carbohydrate, lipid and hormonal disorders in high fat diet-fed/streptozotocin diabetic rats. In this report, diabetic rats were treated intragastrically at doses 2.5, 5 and 25 mg/kg b.w./day of AITC for 2 weeks. Irrespectively of doses, AITC considerably lowered thyroid hormones (fT4, fT3), increased liver TG content, and also caused robust LDL-cholesterol and direct bilirubin concentration enhancement. Moreover, AITC at the highest dose caused pancreatic amylase and lipase drops and thyroid gland hypertrophy. AITC at 2.5 and 5 mg significantly reduced blood glucose levels along with robust beta-hydroxybutyric acid drop. Additionally, AITC at 5 mg improved insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR index) in spite of reduced blood insulin. To conclude, despite amelioration of diabetic hyperglycemia by AITC, the adverse lipids and hormonal effects may exclude its use as a health-promoting compound in terms of anti-diabetic properties.

Cruciferous vegetable and isothiocyanate intake and multiple health outcomes

Isothiocyanates, bioactive phytochemicals of cruciferous vegetables, have chemopreventative efficacy. To clarify evidence of associations between cruciferous vegetable and isothiocyanate intake and various health outcomes, we conducted an umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews in humans. A total of 413 articles were identified, and 57 articles with 24 health outcomes were included. Consumption of cruciferous vegetables was associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality, cancers, and depression. Dose-response analyses revealed that a per 100 g/d increment was associated with a 10% decrease in the risk of all-cause mortality. Warfarin resistance caused by vitamin K-rich broccoli was reported. Caution was warranted for those allergies/hypersensitivities to the Brassica genus. The intake of cruciferous vegetables is generally safe and beneficial in humans. However the quality of the majority (68%) of evidence was low.

TRPA1: Pharmacology, natural activators and role in obesity prevention

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel is a calcium permeable, non-selective cation channel, expressed in the sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells of different tissues. Initially studied for its role in pain and inflammation, TRPA1 has now functionally involved in multiple other physiological functions. TRPA1 channel has been extensively studied for modulation by pungent compounds present in the spices and herbs. In the last decade, the role of TRPA1 agonism in body weight reduction, secretion of hunger and satiety hormones, insulin secretion and thermogenesis, has unveiled the potential of the TRPA1 channel to be used as a preventive target to tackle obesity and associated comorbidities including insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. In this review, we summarized the recent findings of TRPA1 based dietary/non-dietary modulation for its role in obesity prevention and therapeutics.

Cardioprotective effect of allyl isothiocyanate in a rat model of doxorubicin acute toxicity

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective anthracycline chemotherapeutic drug. Nevertheless, the cardiotoxicity adverse effect restricts its clinical benefit. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. In the present study, we investigated the effect of AITC on cardiotoxicity of DOX. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were divided into four groups; control, AITC, DOX, and AITC + DOX. AITC was administrated orally (25 mg/kg/day) for 7 days, and DOX was given as a single i.p. injection (15 mg/kg) on the third day. Mortality rate was observed during the experiment. Cardiac toxicity markers (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK-MB), and cardiac Troponin I (cTn-I)) were evaluated in serum samples obtained from all groups after 48 hours of DOX injection. DOX-treated group showed 40% mortality and a significant increase in cardiac enzymes. This increase was accompanied by degenerated cardiomyocytes, and inflammatory cells infiltrates. Interestingly, AITC administration alleviated myocardial oxidative stress induced by DOX as attenuated the increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) while resulted in elevations of the antioxidant reduced glutathione (GSH) level as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Furthermore, the inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α, was reduced upon administration of AITC with DOX. The cardio-protection of AITC is attributed to increase the expression of cytoprotective nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Subsequently, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) level was elevated by AITC to correct the oxidative stress induced by DOX in the heart. Accordingly, AITC ameliorated acute cardiotoxicity associated with DOX treatment via attenuation of oxidative stress and the induced-tissue inflammatory injury. Abbreviations: DOX: doxrubicin; Nrf2: nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; HO-1: heme oxygenase 1; AITC: ally isothiocyanate; MDA: malondialdehyde; SOD: superoxide dismutase; GSH: reduced glutathione; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor alpha.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate attenuates diabetic nephropathy via modulation of glycative/oxidative/inflammatory signaling in diabetic rats

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a diabetic complication characterized by disruption of renal microvasculature, reactive oxygen species accumulation and increased inflammation, all of which contribute to renal injury. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a naturally occurring isothiocyanate well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, yet its reno-preventive effects against DN has not been investigated. The current study looked into the in vivo reno-protective effects of PEITC in STZ-induced DN in rats. PEITC (3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) was administered orally for 8 weeks post DM establishment. PEITC treatment significantly improved kidney and liver functions, renal histopathological features, tissue fibrosis, macrophage infiltration and blood glucose levels compared to DN control. Mechanistically, PEITC treatment alleviated DN-induced renal damage via modulating glycation and oxidative stresses and inflammatory response. As such, PEITC activated glyoxalase 1 (GLO1) that induced a retraction in renal tissue expression of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and its receptor (RAGE). PEITC activated nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and increased expression of its downstream targets, hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and gamma glutamate-cysteine (γ-GCS). Additionally, PEITC treatment decreased the expression of Nrf2 repressor protein, keap1. The anti-inflammatory effect of PEITC was driven, at least in part, via reducing the NLRP3 inflammasome activation as indicated by down regulation of NLRP3, TXNIP, capsase-1 and IL-1β, TNF-alpha and IL-6. In conclusion; PEITC attenuated DN progression in a dose dependent manner mainly via interruption of AGE/RAGE and NLPR3/TXNIP/NrF2 crosstalk.

Allyl isothiocyanate attenuates LED light-induced retinal damage in rats: exploration for the potential molecular mechanisms

PURPOSE

Environmental light pollution due to artificial light may increase the rate and severity of retinal diseases, and plant-based nutritional interventions with antioxidant properties have the potential to reverse this phenomenon. We aimed to investigate the potential effects of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) against white light-emitting diode (LED)-induced retinal degeneration (RD) in the rats.

METHODS

Twenty-eight male rats were allocated as: (i) Control, (ii) LED, (iii) LED + AITC (10 mg/kg BW), (iv) LED + AITC (20 mg/kg BW). Rats were administered with AITC for 28 days, followed by two days of intense environmental LED light (750 Lux) exposure to the eyes. Animals were sacrificed immediately at the end of the study, then the blood and eyeballs were taken for the biochemical, western blotting, and histopathology examinations.

RESULTS

AITC lowered the serum and retina malondialdehyde (MDA) levels while significantly (p < 0.05) improving the retinal antioxidant enzyme activities in a dose-dependent manner. AITC improved retinal and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness as compared to the LED group (p < 0.05). AITC increased the levels of Bax, caspase-3, HO-1, GAP43, and VEGF, while decreasing IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB, Bcl-2, GFAP, Grp78, activating ATF4 and ATF6 as compared to the LED group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, four weeks of AITC administration to the rats showed specific protective effects against two days of intense LED light-induced retinal damage; through antiinflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and modulating mitochondrial metabolic pathways.

Diabetes Mellitus Causes Male Reproductive Dysfunction: A Review of the Evidence and Mechanisms

The metabolic disorders caused by diabetes can lead to various complications, including dysfunction of the male reproductive system. In patients with diabetes, long-term hyperglycemia results in diabetic vascular neuropathy, oxidative stress injury, abnormal zinc metabolism, and insulin resistance syndrome. In addition, insulin deficiency and resistance in diabetes can damage the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, gonads, and perigonads. This can reduce the secretion of sex hormones including gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone, and can lead to testicular atrophy, stromal cell atrophy, seminiferous tubule damage, spermatogenic cell damage, and other structural injuries of the male reproductive organs. These actions can affect male fertility and reproductive health. Herein, we review studies that report a causative role of diabetes in male reproductive function. We also discuss the evidence-based mechanisms involved in the processes of diabetes-related male sexual and reproductive dysfunction as well as the progress in treatment.

Allyl Isothiocyanate Protects Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury via NRF2 Activation by Decreasing Spontaneous Degradation in Hepatocyte

Acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most frequently prescribed analgesic and anti-pyretic drugs. However, APAP-induced hepatotoxicity is a major cause of acute liver failure globally. While the therapeutic dose is safe, an overdose of APAP produces an excess of the toxic metabolite N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), subsequently resulting in hepatotoxicity. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a bioactive molecule in cruciferous plants, is reported to exert various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial effects. Notably, AITC is known for activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), but there is limited evidence supporting the beneficial effects on hepatocytes and liver, where AITC is mainly metabolized. We applied a mouse model in the current study to investigate whether AITC protects the liver against APAP-induced injury, wherein we observed the protective effects of AITC. Furthermore, NRF2 nuclear translocation and the increase of target genes by AITC treatment were confirmed by in vitro experiments. APAP-induced cell damage was attenuated by AITC via an NRF2-dependent manner, and rapid NRF2 activation by AITC was attributed to the elevation of NRF2 stability by decreasing its spontaneous degradation. Moreover, liver tissues from our mouse experiment revealed that AITC increases the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an NRF2 target gene, confirming the potential of AITC as a hepatoprotective agent that induces NRF2 activation. Taken together, our results indicate the potential of AITC as a natural-product-derived NRF2 activator targeting the liver.

Oxymatrine Ameliorates Memory Impairment in Diabetic Rats by Regulating Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis: Involvement of NOX2/NOX4

Oxymatrine (OMT) is the major quinolizidine alkaloid extracted from the root of Sophora flavescens Ait and has been shown to exhibit a diverse range of pharmacological properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of OMT in diabetic brain injury in vivo and in vitro. Diabetic rats were induced by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of 65 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) and fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet. Memory function was assessed using a Morris water maze test. A SH-SY5Y cell injury model was induced by incubation with glucose (30 mM/l) to simulate damage in vitro. The serum fasting blood glucose, insulin, serum S100B, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were analyzed using commercial kits. Morphological changes were observed using Nissl staining and electron microscopy. Cell apoptosis was assessed using Hoechst staining and TUNEL staining. NADPH oxidase (NOX) and caspase-3 activities were determined. The effects of NOX2 and NOX4 knockdown were assessed using small interfering RNA. The expression levels of NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4 were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting, and the levels of caspase-3 were detected using western blotting. The diabetic rats exhibited significantly increased plasma glucose, insulin, reactive oxygen species (ROS), S-100B, and MDA levels and decreased SOD levels. Memory function was determined by assessing the percentage of time spent in the target quadrant, the number of times the platform was crossed, escape latency, and mean path length and was found to be significantly reduced in the diabetic rats. Hyperglycemia resulted in notable brain injury, including histological changes and apoptosis in the cortex and hippocampus. The expression levels of NOX2 and NOX4 were significantly upregulated at the protein and mRNA levels, and NOX1 expression was not altered in the diabetic rats. NOX and caspase-3 activities were increased, and caspase-3 expression was upregulated in the brain tissue of diabetic rats. OMT treatment dose-dependently reversed behavioral, biochemical, and molecular changes in the diabetic rats. In vitro, high glucose resulted in increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS), MDA levels, apoptosis, and the expressions of NOX2, NOX4, and caspase-3. siRNA-mediated knockdown of NOX2 and NOX4 decreased NOX2 and NOX4 expression levels, respectively, and reduced ROS levels and apoptosis. The results of the present study suggest that OMT alleviates diabetes-associated cognitive decline, oxidative stress, and apoptosis via NOX2 and NOX4 inhibition.

Pharmacological modulation of the hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) system by dietary H2 S-donors: A novel promising strategy in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents the most common age-related metabolic disorder, and its management is becoming both a health and economic issue worldwide. Moreover, chronic hyperglycemia represents one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular complications. In the last years, the emerging evidence about the role of the endogenous gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S) in the pathogenesis and progression of T2DM led to increasing interest in the pharmacological modulation of endogenous "H₂ S-system". Indeed, H₂ S directly contributes to the homeostatic maintenance of blood glucose levels; moreover, it improves impaired angiogenesis and endothelial dysfunction under hyperglycemic conditions. Moreover, H₂ S promotes significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects, thus preventing hyperglycemia-induced vascular damage, diabetic nephropathy, and cardiomyopathy. Therefore, H₂ S-releasing molecules represent a promising strategy in both clinical management of T2DM and prevention of macro- and micro-vascular complications associated to hyperglycemia. Recently, growing attention has been focused on dietary organosulfur compounds. Among them, garlic polysulfides and isothiocyanates deriving from Brassicaceae have been recognized as H₂ S-donors of great pharmacological and nutraceutical interest. Therefore, a better understanding of the therapeutic potential of naturally occurring H₂ S-donors may pave the way to a more rational use of these nutraceuticals in the modulation of H₂ S homeostasis in T2DM.

Molecular Mechanisms Linking Oxidative Stress and Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and an inadequate response to circulatory insulin by peripheral tissues resulting in insulin resistance. Insulin resistance has a complex pathophysiology, and it is contributed to by multiple factors including oxidative stress. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between free radical production and the antioxidant system leading to a reduction of peripheral insulin sensitivity and contributing to the development of T2DM via several molecular mechanisms. In this review, we present the molecular mechanisms by which the oxidative milieu contributes to the pathophysiology of insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus.

Effect of Insulin on Proximal Tubules Handling of Glucose: A Systematic Review

Renal proximal tubules reabsorb glucose from the glomerular filtrate and release it back into the circulation. Modulation of glomerular filtration and renal glucose disposal are some of the insulin actions, but little is known about a possible insulin effect on tubular glucose reabsorption. This review is aimed at synthesizing the current knowledge about insulin action on glucose handling by proximal tubules. Method. A systematic article selection from Medline (PubMed) and Embase between 2008 and 2019. 180 selected articles were clustered into topics (renal insulin handling, proximal tubule glucose transport, renal gluconeogenesis, and renal insulin resistance). Summary of Results. Insulin upregulates its renal uptake and degradation, and there is probably a renal site-specific insulin action and resistance; studies in diabetic animal models suggest that insulin increases renal SGLT2 protein content; in vivo human studies on glucose transport are few, and results of glucose transporter protein and mRNA contents are conflicting in human kidney biopsies; maximum renal glucose reabsorptive capacity is higher in diabetic patients than in healthy subjects; glucose stimulates SGLT1, SGLT2, and GLUT2 in renal cell cultures while insulin raises SGLT2 protein availability and activity and seems to directly inhibit the SGLT1 activity despite it activating this transporter indirectly. Besides, insulin regulates SGLT2 inhibitor bioavailability, inhibits renal gluconeogenesis, and interferes with Na+K+ATPase activity impacting on glucose transport. Conclusion. Available data points to an important insulin participation in renal glucose handling, including tubular glucose transport, but human studies with reproducible and comparable method are still needed.

Consumption of Terpenoids-Rich Padina pavonia Extract Attenuates Hyperglycemia, Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress, and Upregulates PPARγ in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes

Seaweeds are rich in structurally diverse bioactive compounds with promising therapeutic effects. This study aimed to isolate and identify terpenes from the brown alga Padina pavonia and to investigate its antidiabetic activity, pointing to the possible involvement of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ. Type 2 diabetes was induced by feeding rats a high fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks followed by injection of 35 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). The diabetic rats received P. pavonia extract (PPE; 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) for 4 weeks and samples were collected for analyses. HFD/STZ-induced rats showed hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, decreased insulin, and increased HbA1c and HOMA-IR. PPE ameliorated hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats. Treatment with PPE increased hepatic hexokinase activity and glycogen, suppressed glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1,6-biphosphatase, and glycogen phosphorylase, and attenuated oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver injury and lipid infiltration in HFD/STZ-induced rats. In addition, PPE boosted antioxidants and upregulated PPARγ gene and protein expression in the liver of diabetic rats. Phytochemical investigation resulted in the isolation of six terpenes from PPE and in silico analysis revealed their binding affinity toward PPARγ. In conclusion, P. pavonia-derived terpenes attenuated hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and improved insulin sensitivity and carbohydrate metabolism in type 2 diabetic rats. These beneficial effects are mediated via PPARγ activation. However, further studies to explore the exact mechanisms underlying the antidiabetic effect of PPE are recommended.