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Erguven P, Sevgin K, Kotil T, Kaleci B, Caglar HG, Ozer OF. Continuous Thymoquinone Administration Mitigates Sodium Iodate-Induced Retinal Degeneration in Rats. Curr Eye Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39039707 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2381203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the protective or therapeutic effect of thymoquinone (TQ) in a retinal degeneration rat model and its relationships with the retina ultrastructure, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), caspase-3, and RPE65 expressions and to determine whether TQ has a therapeutic effect at the biochemical level. METHODS A total of 25 adult Wistar albino rats were divided into the following treatment groups: saline (control: CONT), CO (corn oil), sodium iodate (SI), TQ + SI, and SI + TQ injection groups. Retina morphology, RPE65, HO-1, and caspase-3 expression levels were evaluated using immunohistochemistry, and optical density was determined using ImageJ. Ultrastructural evaluations were performed with electron microscopy. Thiol-disulfide homeostatic parameters were examined in serum samples. RESULTS Outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness was significantly higher in the SI + TQ group compared to the SI group. The RPE65 expression significantly decreased in the SI group compared with the CONT and CO groups. A significant increase in RPE65 expression level and a significant decrease in caspase-3 expression level were found in the SI + TQ group compared with the SI group. The increase in HO-1 expression level was significantly higher in the TQ treatment groups, particularly in the SI + TQ group. In the SI and TQ + SI groups, the ONL thickness significantly decreased with a significant increase in caspase-3 expression compared to the CONT and CO groups. In the treatment groups, decreased organelle damage was observed on electron microscopy. In the SI + TQ group, the disulfide/native thiol and disulfide/total thiol ratios were significantly lower than all other groups, while the native/total thiol ratio was significantly higher than the other experimental groups. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides evidence that continuous TQ treatment can increase HO-1 and RPE65 expression and decrease apoptosis (caspase-3 levels), thereby preserving the retina at the ultrastructural level. Moreover, TQ administration can maintain thiol/disulfide homeostasis in SI-induced retinal degeneration-modelled rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelin Erguven
- Department of Histology and Embryology, International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kubra Sevgin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tugba Kotil
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Belisa Kaleci
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Albanian University, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Omer Faruk Ozer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Seyed Aliyan SM, Roohbakhsh A, Jafari Fakhrabad M, Salmasi Z, Moshiri M, Shahbazi N, Etemad L. Evaluating the Protective Effects of Thymoquinone on Methamphetamine-induced Toxicity in an In Vitro Model Based on Differentiated PC12 Cells. Altern Lab Anim 2024; 52:94-106. [PMID: 38445454 DOI: 10.1177/02611929241237409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (Meth) is a highly addictive stimulant. Its potential neurotoxic effects are mediated through various mechanisms, including oxidative stress and the initiation of the apoptotic process. Thymoquinone (TQ), obtained from Nigella sativa seed oil, has extensive antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of TQ against Meth-induced toxicity by using an in vitro model based on nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cells. Cell differentiation was assessed by detecting the presence of a neuronal marker with flow cytometry. The effects of Meth exposure were evaluated in the in vitro neuronal cell-based model via the determination of cell viability (in an MTT assay) and apoptosis (by annexin/propidium iodide staining). The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the levels of glutathione (GSH) and dopamine, were also determined. The model was used to determine the protective effects of 0.5, 1 and 2 μM TQ against Meth-induced toxicity (at 1 mM). The results showed that TQ reduced Meth-induced neurotoxicity, possibly through the inhibition of ROS generation and apoptosis, and by helping to maintain GSH and dopamine levels. Thus, the impact of TQ treatment on Meth-induced neurotoxicity could warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Roohbakhsh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Marzieh Jafari Fakhrabad
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahar Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Moshiri
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niosha Shahbazi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Etemad
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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3
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Sadeghi E, Imenshahidi M, Hosseinzadeh H. Molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of black cumin (Nigella sativa) and its active constituent, thymoquinone: a review. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:5439-5454. [PMID: 37155017 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08363-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nigella sativa and its main bioactive ingredient, thymoquinone, exhibit various pharmacological activities, including neuroprotective, nephroprotective, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-cancer effects. Many studies have been conducted trying to elucidate the molecular signaling pathways that mediate these diverse pharmacological properties of N. sativa and thymoquinone. Accordingly, the goal of this review is to show the effects of N. sativa and thymoquinone on different cell signaling pathways. METHODS The online databases Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant articles using a list of related keywords such as Nigella sativa, black cumin, thymoquinone, black seed, signal transduction, cell signaling, antioxidant, Nrf2, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, apoptosis, JAK/STAT, AMPK, MAPK, etc. Only articles published in the English language until May 2022 were included in the present review article. RESULTS Studies indicate that N. sativa and thymoquinone improve antioxidant enzyme activities, effectively scavenges free radicals, and thus protect cells from oxidative stress. They can also regulate responses to oxidative stress and inflammation via Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways. N. sativa and thymoquinone can inhibit cancer cell proliferation through disruption of the PI3K/AKT pathway by upregulating phosphatase and tensin homolog. Thymoquinone can modulate reactive oxygen species levels in tumor cells, arrest the cell cycle in the G2/M phase as well as affect molecular targets including p53, STAT3 and trigger the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Thymoquinone, by adjusting AMPK, can regulate cellular metabolism and energy hemostasis. Finally, N. sativa and thymoquinone can elevate brain GABA content, and thus it may ameliorate epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the improvement of antioxidant status and prevention of inflammatory process by modulating the Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation through disruption of the PI3K/AKT pathway appear to be the main mechanisms involved in different pharmacological properties of N. sativa and thymoquinone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Sadeghi
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohsen Imenshahidi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O.Box: 1365-91775, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O.Box: 1365-91775, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Bouchmaa N, Ben Mrid R, Bouargalne Y, Ajouaoi S, Cacciola F, El Fatimy R, Nhiri M, Zyad A. In vitro evaluation of dioscin and protodioscin against ER-positive and triple-negative breast cancer. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0272781. [PMID: 36757991 PMCID: PMC9910703 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Women's breast cancer is one of the most significant healthcare issues for the human race that demands a proactive strategy for a cure. In this study, the cytotoxic activity (MTT assay) of two natural steroidal compounds, protodioscin and dioscin, against two major subtypes of human breast cancer estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive)/MCF-7 and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)/MDA-MB-468), was assessed. The clonogenic capacity was evaluated using the clonogenic assay. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring the formation of malondialdehyde and H2O2 and the assessment of total antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GPx, GR, and TrxR). Protodioscin and dioscin were highly cytotoxic against the tested cell lines (1.53 μM <IC50< 6 μM) with low cytotoxicity on normal cells (PBMC; IC50 ≥ 50 μM). Interestingly, these compounds were responsible for a substantial decrease in the clonogenic capacity of both cell lines. Moreover, dioscin was able to reduce the cell motility of the invasive breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-468). At the molecular level, the two treatments resulted in an increase of reactive oxygen species. Notably, both compounds were responsible for decreasing the enzymatic activities of glutathione reductase and thioredoxin reductase. On the basis of such considerations, protodioscin and dioscin may serve as promising natural compounds to treat TNBC and ER-positive breast cancer through the induction of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najat Bouchmaa
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Team of Experimental Oncology and Natural Substances, Cellular and Molecular Immuno-Pharmacology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni-Mellal, Morocco
- Institute of Medical and Biological Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
- * E-mail: (NB); (AZ)
| | - Reda Ben Mrid
- Institute of Medical and Biological Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Youssef Bouargalne
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Sana Ajouaoi
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Team of Experimental Oncology and Natural Substances, Cellular and Molecular Immuno-Pharmacology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni-Mellal, Morocco
| | - Francesco Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Rachid El Fatimy
- Institute of Medical and Biological Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Nhiri
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
| | - Abdelmajid Zyad
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Team of Experimental Oncology and Natural Substances, Cellular and Molecular Immuno-Pharmacology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni-Mellal, Morocco
- * E-mail: (NB); (AZ)
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Landucci E, Mazzantini C, Calvani M, Pellegrini-Giampietro DE, Bergonzi MC. Evaluation of Conventional and Hyaluronic Acid-Coated Thymoquinone Liposomes in an In Vitro Model of Dry Eye. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020578. [PMID: 36839901 PMCID: PMC9963930 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular disorder characterized by an inadequate lubrication of the eye by tears leading to inflammation and the alteration of the ocular surface. Current treatments are often limited due to their side effects and ineffectiveness. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a natural compound present in the essential oil of Nigella sativa L., with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In this study, conventional and hyaluronic acid-coated liposomes were developed to improve TQ activity at ocular level. In the present study, the cytoprotective effects of TQ or TQ liposomes were assessed against oxidative and inflammatory processes in human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2). Hyperosmolarity conditions (450 mOsm) were used as a model of DED. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) were quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR); COX-2 and Phospho-NF-κB p65 (p-p65) by Western blotting (WB). Moreover, the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) levels were measured by MitoSOX assay. The hyperosmotic treatment induced a significant increase of the proinflammatory genes and proteins expression that were significantly decreased in the liposomes-treated cells. The coincubation with hyaluronic acid-coated liposomes significantly reverted the increase of mtROS production, evidently stimulated by the hyperosmotic stress. Our data suggest that TQ-loaded liposomes have potential as a therapeutic agent in dry eye disease, improving the TQ efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Landucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (M.C.B.); Tel.: +30-055-2758378 (E.L.); +30-055-4573678 (M.C.B.)
| | - Costanza Mazzantini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Maura Calvani
- Division of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Meyer University Children’s Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Domenico E. Pellegrini-Giampietro
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Camilla Bergonzi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (M.C.B.); Tel.: +30-055-2758378 (E.L.); +30-055-4573678 (M.C.B.)
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Role of Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2 (Nrf2) in the Recovery of Long COVID-19 Using Natural Antioxidants: A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081551. [PMID: 36009268 PMCID: PMC9405009 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease with approximately 517 million confirmed cases, with the average number of cases revealing that patients recover immediately without hospitalization. However, several other cases found that patients still experience various symptoms after 3–12 weeks, which is known as a long COVID syndrome. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can activate nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κβ) and unbind the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) with Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), causing inhibition of Nrf2, which has an important role in antioxidant response and redox homeostasis. Disrupting the Keap1–Nrf2 pathway enhances Nrf2 activity, and has been identified as a vital approach for the prevention of oxidative stress and inflammation. Hence, natural antioxidants from various sources have been identified as a promising strategy to prevent oxidative stress, which plays a role in reducing the long COVID-19 symptoms. Oxygen-rich natural antioxidant compounds provide an effective Nrf2 activation effect that interact with the conserved amino acid residues in the Keap1-binding pocket, such as Ser602, Ser363, Ser508, and Ser555. In this review, the benefits of various natural antioxidant compounds that can modulate the Nrf2 signaling pathway, which is critical in reducing and curing long COVID-19, are highlighted and discussed.
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Mahmud NM, Paraoan L, Khaliddin N, Kamalden TA. Thymoquinone in Ocular Neurodegeneration: Modulation of Pathological Mechanisms via Multiple Pathways. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:786926. [PMID: 35308121 PMCID: PMC8924063 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.786926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone is a naturally occurring compound and is the major component of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin. For centuries thymoquinone has been used especially in the Middle East traditionally to treat wounds, asthma, allergies, fever, headache, cough, hypertension, and diabetes. Studies have suggested beneficial effects of thymoquinone to be attributed to its antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in thymoquinone as a treatment for neurodegeneration in the brain, such as that seen in Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s diseases (PD). In vitro and in vivo studies on animal models of AD and PD suggest the main neuroprotective mechanisms are based on the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties of thymoquinone. Neurodegenerative conditions of the eye, such as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma share at least in part similar mechanisms of neuronal cell death with those occurring in AD and PD. This review aims to summarize and critically analyze the evidence to date of the effects and potential neuroprotective actions of thymoquinone in the eye and ocular neurodegenerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Musfirah Mahmud
- UM Eye Research Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Luminita Paraoan
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nurliza Khaliddin
- UM Eye Research Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tengku Ain Kamalden
- UM Eye Research Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Tengku Ain Kamalden,
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Landucci E, Bonomolo F, De Stefani C, Mazzantini C, Pellegrini-Giampietro DE, Bilia AR, Bergonzi MC. Preparation of Liposomal Formulations for Ocular Delivery of Thymoquinone: In Vitro Evaluation in HCEC-2 e HConEC Cells. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122093. [PMID: 34959374 PMCID: PMC8704629 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main constituent of Nigella sativa L. essential oil. In vitro studies have shown its protective effect against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in human retinal pigment epithelium cells, and in vivo experiments have demonstrated its effect in decreasing corneal neovascularization and reducing the inflammation in an experimental dry eye model in mice. Its therapeutic use is limited by poor bioavailability, low solubility, and scarce permeability. In this study, two liposomal formulations have been developed, both of which consist of phosphatidylcholine and Plurol Oleique, a liquid lipid, and one of which is coated with 0.1% w/v hyaluronic acid (HA) to increase both TQ solubility and its ocular therapeutic potential. Each formulation has a size <200 nm and an EE% around 70%, determined by scattering techniques and the HPLC-DAD analytical method, respectively, and they result in a 2-fold increase in TQ solubility. HA-coated liposomes are stable over 2 months at +4 °C, and coated and uncoated liposomes present a gradual and prolonged release of TQ. Two cell lines, human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC-2) and human conjunctival epithelial cells (HConEC) were used to investigate the safety of the liposomal formulations. Uptake studies were also performed using fluorescent liposomes. Both liposomes and, in particular, HA-coated liposomes reduce the TQ toxicity observed at high doses in both HCEC-2 and HConEC cells, and both formulations increase the absorption at the cellular level and especially at the nucleus level, with a more pronounced effect for HA-coated liposomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Landucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (C.M.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | - Francesca Bonomolo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; (F.B.); (C.D.S.); (A.R.B.)
| | - Chiara De Stefani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; (F.B.); (C.D.S.); (A.R.B.)
| | - Costanza Mazzantini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (C.M.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | - Domenico Edoardo Pellegrini-Giampietro
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (C.M.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | - Anna Rita Bilia
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; (F.B.); (C.D.S.); (A.R.B.)
| | - Maria Camilla Bergonzi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; (F.B.); (C.D.S.); (A.R.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-055-4573678
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Samad N, Manzoor N, Muneer Z, Bhatti SA, Imran I. Reserpine-induced altered neuro-behavioral, biochemical and histopathological assessments prevent by enhanced antioxidant defence system of thymoquinone in mice. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:2535-2552. [PMID: 34309746 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00789-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Thymoquinone (Tq), an active compound of Nigella sativa, has been known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective characteristics. The present study is aimed to evaluate the effect of Tq on reserpine (Rsp)-induced behavioral (anxiety and/or depression) and, memory deficit; hippocampal inflammatory markers, oxidative markers, antioxidant enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and histopathology in male mice. Animals were injected with Rsp at a dose of 2 mg/ml/kg and doses of Tq (10 and 20 mg/ml/kg) for 28 days. After the treatment period, behavioral tests [Elevated plus maze (Epm); Light dark box test (Lda); Morris water maze (Mwm); Forced swim test (Fst); Tail suspension test (Tst)] were conducted. After analysis of behaviors, mice were decapitated and brain samples were collected, the hippocampus was removed from the whole-brain sample for biochemical analysis and histology. Administration of Tq at both doses prevent adverse effects of Rsp and increased time spent in open arm and lightbox in Lda and Epm respectively, decreased immobility period in Fst and Tst, decreased latency escape in Mwm, reduced lipid peroxidation (lpo) and inflammatory cytokines, increased defensive enzymes, reduced acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and corrected histological lines. It is concluded that Rsp-instigated behavioral and memory deficits were prevented by Tq possibly via its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen Samad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan.
| | - Natasha Manzoor
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | - Zahra Muneer
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | - Sheraz A Bhatti
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | - Imran Imran
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
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Chun KS, Raut PK, Kim DH, Surh YJ. Role of chemopreventive phytochemicals in NRF2-mediated redox homeostasis in humans. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 172:699-715. [PMID: 34214633 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
While functioning as a second messenger in the intracellular signaling, ROS can cause oxidative stress when produced in excess or not neutralized/eliminated properly. Excessive ROS production is implicated in multi-stage carcinogenesis. Our body is equipped with a defense system to cope with constant oxidative stress caused by the external insults, including redox-cycling chemicals, radiation, and microbial infection as well as endogenously generated ROS. The transcription factor, nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a master switch in the cellular antioxidant signaling and plays a vital role in adaptive survival response to ROS-induced oxidative stress. Although NRF2 is transiently activated when cellular redox balance is challenged, this can be overwhelmed by massive oxidative stress. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the NRF2-mediated antioxidant defense capacity at an optimal level. This review summarizes the natural NRF2 inducers/activators, especially those present in the plant-based diet, in relation to their cancer chemopreventive potential in humans. The molecular mechanisms underlying their stabilization or activation of NRF2 are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Soo Chun
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu 42691, South Korea
| | - Pawan Kumar Raut
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu 42691, South Korea
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Convergence and Integrated Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16227, South Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea; Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea; Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, South Korea.
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Hadi S, Miryan M, Soleimani D, Amani R, Mazaheri Tehrani M, Hadi V, Esmaiil Zali M, Mosalmanzadeh N, Askari G. The effect of food ration bar enriched with β-alanine, L-arginine, and Nigella sativa on performance and inflammation following intense military training: A double-blind randomized clinical trial. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:3512-3520. [PMID: 34262711 PMCID: PMC8269545 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are growing interests in using dietary supplements to improve athletic performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the food ration bar enriched with β-alanine, L-arginine, and Nigella sativa on athletic performance and inflammation following intense military training. METHODS This double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted on 54 new cadets. Eligible participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive food ration bars enriched with arginine (2 g/day), β-alanine (2 g/day), and Nigella sativa (2 g/day) or nonenriched food ration bars during a 2-week military training. Aerobic and anaerobic performances were evaluated by the Cooper and RAST tests, respectively. RESULTS A significant increase in anaerobic powers (min, mean, and max) and a significant reduction in fatigue index were observed in the intervention group as compared to the control group, even after the adjustment for confounding factors. Also, increased levels of hs-CRP and TNF-α following military training were significantly lower in the intervention group as compared to the control group (hs-CRP: 0.55 ± 0.1 versus 2.43 ± 0.1 mg/L; p-value: 0.01; TNF-α: 0.12 ± 0.04 versus 0.62 ± 0.04 pg/ml; p-value: 0.03). No significant changes were observed in VO2 max in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that the combination of β-alanine, L-arginine, and Nigella sativa can improve anaerobic performance and reduce inflammation following intense physical activities. Further studies with long-term duration are needed to confirm the cumulative/synergic effects of these ingredients in trained and nontrained subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Hadi
- Department of Community NutritionSchool of Nutrition and Food SciencesIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
- Department of Health, Science and Research BranchAJA University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mahsa Miryan
- Nutrition Research CenterStudent Research CommitteeDepartment of Clinical NutritionSchool of Nutrition and Food SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Davood Soleimani
- Nutritional Sciences DepartmentSchool of Nutrition Sciences and Food TechnologyKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Reza Amani
- Department of Community NutritionSchool of Nutrition and Food SciencesIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | - Mostafa Mazaheri Tehrani
- Department of Food Science and TechnologyFaculty of AgricultureFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Vahid Hadi
- Department of Health, Science and Research BranchAJA University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Morad Esmaiil Zali
- Department of Management and Health EconomyFaculty of MedicineAJA University of medical sciencesTehranIran
| | - Negin Mosalmanzadeh
- Department of Nutrition SciencesVarastegan Institute for Medical SciencesMashhadIran
| | - Gholamreza Askari
- Department of Community NutritionSchool of Nutrition and Food SciencesIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
- Food Security Research CenterIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
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12
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Sarkar C, Jamaddar S, Islam T, Mondal M, Islam MT, Mubarak MS. Therapeutic perspectives of the black cumin component thymoquinone: A review. Food Funct 2021; 12:6167-6213. [PMID: 34085672 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo00401h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The dietary phytochemical thymoquinone (TQ), belonging to the family of quinones, mainly obtained from the black and angular seeds of Nigella sativa, is one of the promising monoterpenoid hydrocarbons, which has been receiving massive attention for its therapeutic potential and pharmacological properties. It plays an important role as a chemopreventive and therapeutic agent in the treatment of various diseases and illnesses. The aim of this review is to present a summary of the most recent literature pertaining to the use of TQ for the prevention and treatment of various diseases along with possible mechanisms of action, and the potential use of this natural product as a complementary or alternative medicine. Research findings indicated that TQ exhibits numerous pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and anticancer, among others. Conclusions of this review on the therapeutic aspects of TQ highlight the medicinal and folk values of this compound against various diseases and ailments. In short, TQ could be a novel drug in clinical trials, as we hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Sarkar
- Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj-8100, Bangladesh.
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13
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Butt MS, Imran M, Imran A, Arshad MS, Saeed F, Gondal TA, Shariati MA, Gilani SA, Tufail T, Ahmad I, Rind NA, Mahomoodally MF, Islam S, Mehmood Z. Therapeutic perspective of thymoquinone: A mechanistic treatise. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:1792-1809. [PMID: 33747489 PMCID: PMC7958532 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The higher utilization of fruits and vegetables is well known to cure human maladies due to the presence of bioactive components. Among these compounds, thymoquinone, a monoterpene and significant constituent in the essential oil of Nigella sativa L., has attained attention by the researchers due to their pharmacologies perspectives such as prevention from cancer, antidiabetic and antiobesity, prevention from oxidative stress and cardioprotective disorder. Thymoquinone has been found to work as anticancer agent against different human and animal cancer stages including propagation, migration, and invasion. Thymoquinone as phytochemical also downregulated the Rac1 expression, mediated the miR-34a upregulation, and increased the levels of miR-34a through p53, as well as also regulated the pro- and antiapoptotic genes and decreased the phosphorylation of NF-κB and IKKα/β. In addition, thymoquinone also lowered the metastasis and ERK1/2 and PI3K activities. The present review article has been piled by adapting narrative review method and highlights the diverse aspects of thymoquinone such as hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antiaging through various pathways, and further utilization of this compound in diet has been proven effective against different types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Sadiq Butt
- Faculty of Food, Nutrition & Home SciencesNational Institute of Food Science and TechnologyUAFFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Faculty of Allied Health SciencesUniversity Institute of Diet and Nutritional SciencesThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Ali Imran
- Department of Food ScienceInstitute of Home and Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Muhammad Sajid Arshad
- Department of Food ScienceInstitute of Home and Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Farhan Saeed
- Department of Food ScienceInstitute of Home and Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Tanweer Aslam Gondal
- School of Exercise and NutritionFaculty of HealthDeakin UniversityBurwoodVic.Australia
| | | | - Syed Amir Gilani
- Faculty of Allied Health SciencesUniversity Institute of Diet and Nutritional SciencesThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Tabussam Tufail
- Faculty of Allied Health SciencesUniversity Institute of Diet and Nutritional SciencesThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Ishtiaque Ahmad
- Department of Dairy TechnologyUniversity of Veterinary and Animal SciencesLahorePakistan
| | - Nadir Ali Rind
- Department of molecular Biology and GeneticsShaheed Benazir Bhutto UniversityShaheed BenazirabadPakistan
| | - Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally
- Department of Health SciencesFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of MauritiusRéduitMauritius
| | - Saiful Islam
- Institute of Nutrition and Food ScienceUniversity of DhakaDhakaBangladesh
| | - Zaffar Mehmood
- School of life SciencesForman Christian College (A Chartered University)LahorePakistan
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14
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Kim MH, Kim DH, Yang SG, Kim DY. Improved effect of a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant on hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in human retinal pigment epithelium cells. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 22:7. [PMID: 33472699 PMCID: PMC7819191 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-020-00471-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Oxidative damage to retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells contributes to the development of age-related macular degeneration, which is among the leading causes of visual loss in elderly people. In the present study, we evaluated the protective role of triphenylphosphonium (TPP)-Niacin against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress in RPE cells. Methods The cellular viability, lactate dehydrogenase release, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and mitochondrial function of retinal ARPE-19 cells were determined under treatment with H2O2 or pre-treatment with TPP-Niacin. The expression level of mitochondrial related genes and some transcription factors were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Results TPP-Niacin significantly improved cell viability, reduced ROS generation, and increased the antioxidant enzymes in H2O2-treated ARPE-19 cells. Mitochondrial dysfunction from the H2O2-induced oxidative stress was also considerably diminished by TPP-Niacin treatment, along with reduction of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and upregulation of the mitochondrial-associated gene. In addition, TPP-Niacin markedly enhanced the expression of transcription factors (PGC-1α and NRF2) and antioxidant-associated genes (especially HO-1 and NQO-1). Conclusion We verified the protective effect of TPP-Niacin against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in RPE cells. TPP-Niacin is believed to protect against mitochondrial dysfunction by upregulating antioxidant-related genes, such as PGC-1α, NRF2, HO-1, and NQO-1, in RPE cells. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40360-020-00471-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hee Kim
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea
| | - Do-Hun Kim
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, BK21 FOUR Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, 22332, South Korea
| | - Su Geun Yang
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Science, BK21 FOUR Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, 22332, South Korea.
| | - Dae Yu Kim
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea. .,Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea. .,Center for Sensor Systems, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, South Korea.
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15
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Kim MH, Kwon SY, Woo SY, Seo WD, Kim DY. Antioxidative Effects of Chrysoeriol via Activation of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway and Modulation of Mitochondrial Function. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26020313. [PMID: 33435366 PMCID: PMC7826659 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell dysfunction caused by excessive oxidative damage is partly involved in age-related macular degeneration, which is among the leading causes of visual impairment in elderly people. Here, we investigated the protective role of chrysoeriol against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress in RPE cells. The cellular viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and mitochondrial function of retinal ARPE-19 cells were monitored under oxidative stress or pre-treatment with chrysoeriol. The expression levels of mitochondrial-related genes and associated transcription factors were assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Moreover, the protein expression of antioxidant signal molecules was characterized by Western blot analysis. Chrysoeriol significantly increased cell viability, reduced ROS generation, and increased the occurrence of antioxidant molecules in H2O2-treated ARPE-19 cells. Additionally, mitochondrial dysfunction caused by H2O2-induced oxidative stress was also considerably diminished by chrysoeriol treatment, which reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and upregulated mitochondrial-associated genes and proteins. Chrysoeriol also markedly enhanced key transcription factors (Nrf2) and antioxidant-associated genes (particularly HO-1 and NQO-1). Therefore, our study confirms the protective effect of chrysoeriol against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in RPE cells, thus confirming that it may prevent mitochondrial dysfunction by upregulating antioxidant-related molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hee Kim
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea;
| | - So Yeon Kwon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea;
| | - So-Yeun Woo
- Rural Development Administration, National Institute of Crop Science, Wanju-gun, Jeollabuk-do 55365, Korea; (S.-Y.W.); (W.D.S.)
| | - Woo Duck Seo
- Rural Development Administration, National Institute of Crop Science, Wanju-gun, Jeollabuk-do 55365, Korea; (S.-Y.W.); (W.D.S.)
| | - Dae Yu Kim
- Inha Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea;
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Center for Sensor Systems, College of Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-32-860-7394
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16
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The Protective Effects of Flavonoids in Cataract Formation through the Activation of Nrf2 and the Inhibition of MMP-9. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12123651. [PMID: 33261005 PMCID: PMC7759919 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cataracts account for over half of global blindness. Cataracts formations occur mainly due to aging and to the direct insults of oxidative stress and inflammation to the eye lens. The nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcriptional factor for cell cytoprotection, is known as the master regulator of redox homeostasis. Nrf2 regulates nearly 600 genes involved in cellular protection against contributing factors of oxidative stress, including aging, disease, and inflammation. Nrf2 was reported to disrupt the oxidative stress that activates Nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) and proinflammatory cytokines. One of these cytokines is matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), which participates in the decomposition of lens epithelial cells (LECs) extracellular matrix and has been correlated with cataract development. Thus, during inflammatory processes, MMP production may be attenuated by the Nrf2 pathway or by the Nrf2 inhibition of NFκB pathway activation. Moreover, plant-based polyphenols have garnered attention due to their presumed safety and efficacy, nutritional, and antioxidant effects. Polyphenol compounds can activate Nrf2 and inhibit MMP-9. Therefore, this review focuses on discussing Nrf2's role in oxidative stress and cataract formation, epigenetic effect in Nrf2 activity, and the association between Nrf2 and MMP-9 in cataract development. Moreover, we describe the protective role of flavonoids in cataract formation, targeting Nrf2 activation and MMP-9 synthesis inhibition as potential molecular targets in preventing cataracts.
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17
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Talebi M, Talebi M, Farkhondeh T, Samarghandian S. Biological and therapeutic activities of thymoquinone: Focus on the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Phytother Res 2020; 35:1739-1753. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Talebi
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Mohsen Talebi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Arlington Arlington Texas United States
- Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc San Antonio Texas United States
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC) Birjand University of Medical Sciences (BUMS) Birjand Iran
- Faculty of Pharmacy Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences Neyshabur Iran
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18
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Recent Progress on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Effects of the Genus Nigella. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:6756835. [PMID: 32655665 PMCID: PMC7321528 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6756835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Seeds of the genus Nigella plants as folk medicine are often used to prevent and treat asthma, diarrhea, dyslipidemia, and other diseases around the world. Pharmacological researches showed that seed extract and seed oil have antibacterial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects which attributed to their bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, saponins, flavones, and phenols. This paper has covered recent progresses on chemical and pharmacological researches on these plants, including their compounds and pharmacological effects. It was found that the chemical component researches were focused on the seed oil. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the profile of the whole constituents in the seeds.
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19
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Catanzaro M, Lanni C, Basagni F, Rosini M, Govoni S, Amadio M. Eye-Light on Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Targeting Nrf2-Pathway as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:844. [PMID: 32581803 PMCID: PMC7291861 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common disease with a multifactorial aetiology, still lacking effective and curative therapies. Among the early events triggering AMD is the deterioration of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), whose fundamental functions assure good health of the retina. RPE is physiologically exposed to high levels of oxidative stress during its lifespan; thus, the integrity and well-functioning of its antioxidant systems are crucial to maintain RPE homeostasis. Among these defensive systems, the Nrf2-pathway plays a primary role. Literature evidence suggests that, in aged and especially in AMD RPE, there is an imbalance between the increased pro-oxidant stress, and the impaired endogenous detoxifying systems, finally reverberating on RPE functions and survival. In this in vitro study on wild type (WT) and Nrf2-silenced (siNrf2) ARPE-19 cells exposed to various AMD-related noxae (H2O2, 4-HNE, MG132 + Bafilomycin), we show that the Nrf2-pathway activation is a physiological protective stress response, leading downstream to an up-regulation of the Nrf2-targets HO1 and p62, and that a Nrf2 impairment predisposes the cells to a higher vulnerability to stress. In search of new pharmacologically active compounds potentially useful for AMD, four nature-inspired hybrids (NIH) were individually characterized as Nrf2 activators, and their pharmacological activity was investigated in ARPE-19 cells. The Nrf2 activator dimethyl-fumarate (DMF; 10 μM) was used as a positive control. Three out of the four tested NIH (5 μM) display both direct and indirect antioxidant properties, in addition to cytoprotective effects in ARPE-19 cells under pro-oxidant stimuli. The observed pro-survival effects require the presence of Nrf2, with the exception of the lead compound NIH1, able to exert a still significant, albeit lower, protection even in siNrf2 cells, supporting the concept of the existence of both Nrf2-dependent and independent pathways mediating pro-survival effects. In conclusion, by using some pharmacological tools as well as a reference compound, we dissected the role of the Nrf2-pathway in ARPE-19 stress response, suggesting that the Nrf2 induction represents an efficient defensive strategy to prevent the stress-induced damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Catanzaro
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Lanni
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Filippo Basagni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Rosini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marialaura Amadio
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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20
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Potential Protective and Therapeutic Roles of the Nrf2 Pathway in Ocular Diseases: An Update. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:9410952. [PMID: 32273949 PMCID: PMC7125500 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9410952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor- (erythroid-derived 2-) like 2 (Nrf2) is a regulator of many processes of life, and it plays an important role in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic responses and in cancer. This review is focused on the potential mechanism of Nrf2 in the occurrence and development of ocular diseases. Also, several Nrf2 inducers, including noncoding RNAs and exogenous compounds, which control the expression of Nrf2 through different pathways, are discussed in ocular disease models and ocular cells, protecting them from dysfunctional changes. Therefore, Nrf2 might be a potential target of protecting ocular cells from various stresses and preventing ocular diseases.
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21
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Noguera-Artiaga L, García-Romo JS, Rosas-Burgos EC, Cinco-Moroyoqui FJ, Vidal-Quintanar RL, Carbonell-Barrachina ÁA, Burgos-Hernández A. Antioxidant, Antimutagenic and Cytoprotective Properties of Hydrosos Pistachio Nuts. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234362. [PMID: 31795320 PMCID: PMC6930527 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Pistachio nuts are included among the foods with the highest antioxidant capacity. Stressed cultivating conditions, such as the use of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI), are expected to create a plant response that might increase the production of secondary metabolites. Fruits that are obtained under RDI treatments are commonly called hydroSOS products. The aim of this work was to study the influence of using different rootstocks (P. atlantica, P. integerrima, and P. terebinthus) and two RDI treatments on the antioxidant (ABTS, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and DPPH), antimutagenic (Ames test), and cytotoxicity (MTT assay in five human cell lines) activities of pistachios. P. terebinthus showed the best antioxidant activity, and the RDI treatments maintained and improved the antioxidant properties of pistachios. Neither the rootstock nor the RDI had significant impact on the antimutagenic potential of pistachios. The nut extracts had no toxic effect on non-cancerous cells and the application of RDI did not reduce their cytoprotective capacity. Furthermore, neither rootstock nor RDI treatments affected the ability of the pistachio extracts of preventing the oxidative damage by H2O2. The application of RDI strategies, in addition to allowing irrigation water saving, led to obtaining pistachios with the same or even better biofunctional characteristics as compared to fully irrigated pistachios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Noguera-Artiaga
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Grupo Calidad y Seguridad Alimentaria (CSA), Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela (EPSO), Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche (UMH), Carretera de Beniel, km 3,2. 03312-Orihuela, Alicante, Spain; (L.N.-A.); (Á.A.C.-B.)
| | - Joel Said García-Romo
- Departamento de Investigación y Posgrado en Alimentos, Universidad de Sonora, Apartado Postal 1658, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico; (J.S.G.-R.); (E.C.R.-B.); (F.J.C.-M.); (R.L.V.-Q.)
| | - Ema C. Rosas-Burgos
- Departamento de Investigación y Posgrado en Alimentos, Universidad de Sonora, Apartado Postal 1658, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico; (J.S.G.-R.); (E.C.R.-B.); (F.J.C.-M.); (R.L.V.-Q.)
| | - Francisco Javier Cinco-Moroyoqui
- Departamento de Investigación y Posgrado en Alimentos, Universidad de Sonora, Apartado Postal 1658, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico; (J.S.G.-R.); (E.C.R.-B.); (F.J.C.-M.); (R.L.V.-Q.)
| | - Reyna Luz Vidal-Quintanar
- Departamento de Investigación y Posgrado en Alimentos, Universidad de Sonora, Apartado Postal 1658, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico; (J.S.G.-R.); (E.C.R.-B.); (F.J.C.-M.); (R.L.V.-Q.)
| | - Ángel Antonio Carbonell-Barrachina
- Departamento de Tecnología Agroalimentaria, Grupo Calidad y Seguridad Alimentaria (CSA), Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela (EPSO), Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche (UMH), Carretera de Beniel, km 3,2. 03312-Orihuela, Alicante, Spain; (L.N.-A.); (Á.A.C.-B.)
| | - Armando Burgos-Hernández
- Departamento de Investigación y Posgrado en Alimentos, Universidad de Sonora, Apartado Postal 1658, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico; (J.S.G.-R.); (E.C.R.-B.); (F.J.C.-M.); (R.L.V.-Q.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52 662-259-2208
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Karimi Z, Ghaffari M, Ezzati Nazhad Dolatabadi J, Dehghan P. The protective effect of thymoquinone on tert-butylhydroquinone induced cytotoxicity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2019; 8:1050-1056. [PMID: 32968481 PMCID: PMC7488589 DOI: 10.1039/c9tx00235a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
2-tert-Butyl-4-hydroquinone (TBHQ) is used for inhibition of oxidative rancidity in the food industry. However, this antioxidant can stimulate cytotoxicity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Thus, potential protective effects of thymoquinone (TQ) against TBHQ-induced cytotoxicity were investigated. Cytotoxicity was evaluated via MTT, flow cytometry, DAPI staining and DNA fragmentation methods. The obtained results revealed that treatment of HUVECs with TQ enhanced the cell viability rate and it had potential to reduce the cytotoxicity effect of TBHQ in cells. Also, in a combined regime of TQ and TBHQ, apoptosis was reduced compared to the cells treated with TBHQ (p < 0.05). Similarly, TQ had a protective effect on DNA and chromatin fragmentation of the cells treated with TBHQ. Finally, it can be concluded that TQ could be used as a protective agent against cytotoxicity induced by TBHQ in HUVECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Karimi
- Immunology Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
- Department of Food Science and Technology , Nutrition Research Center , Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran . ; ; Tel: +98 41 33376229
- Student Research Committee , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Maryam Ghaffari
- Immunology Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | | | - Parvin Dehghan
- Department of Food Science and Technology , Nutrition Research Center , Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran . ; ; Tel: +98 41 33376229
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Huang SY, Chang SF, Chau SF, Chiu SC. The Protective Effect of Hispidin against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in ARPE-19 Cells via Nrf2 Signaling Pathway. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9080380. [PMID: 31430968 PMCID: PMC6724002 DOI: 10.3390/biom9080380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hispidin, a polyphenol compound isolated from Phellinus linteus, has been reported to possess antioxidant activities. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the protective effect of hispidin against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress on Adult Retinal Pigment Epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) cells. Hispidin was not cytotoxic to ARPE-19 cells at concentrations of less than 50 μM. The levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were analyzed by dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) staining. Hispidin significantly restored H2O2-induced cell death and reduced the levels of intracellular ROS. The expression levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as NAD(P)H:Quinine oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) were examined using real-time PCR and Western blotting. Our results showed that hispidin markedly enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), HO-1, NQO-1, GCLM, and GCLC in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, knockdown experiments revealed that transfection with Nrf2 siRNA successfully suppresses the hispidin activated Nrf2 signaling in ARPE-19 cells. Moreover, activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway is involved in mediating the protective effects of hispidin on the ARPE-19 cells. Thus, the present study demonstrated that hispidin provides protection against H2O2-induced damage in ARPE-19 cells via activation of Nrf2 signaling and up-regulation of its downstream targets, including Phase II enzymes, which might be associated with the activation of the JNK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Ying Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hsinchu Mackay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu 30071, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Fang Chang
- Department of Research, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung 42743, Taiwan
| | - Siu-Fung Chau
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung 42743, Taiwan.
| | - Sheng-Chun Chiu
- Department of Research, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung 42743, Taiwan.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taichung 42743, Taiwan.
- General Education Center, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 97005, Taiwan.
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24
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Bordoni L, Fedeli D, Nasuti C, Maggi F, Papa F, Wabitsch M, De Caterina R, Gabbianelli R. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Nigella sativa Oil in Human Pre-Adipocytes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8020051. [PMID: 30823525 PMCID: PMC6406245 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8020051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The oil obtained from the seeds of Nigella sativa L. (N. sativa), also known as black cumin, is frequently used in the Mediterranean area for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer activities. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil extracted from seeds of a N. sativa cultivar produced in the Marche region of Italy, and to determine if the thymoquinone content, antioxidant properties, and biological activity would decay during storage. Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties of N. sativa oil were tested in an in vitro model of low-grade inflammation in Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome human pre-adipocytes. The fresh extracted oil (FEO) contained 33% more thymoquinone than stored extracted oil (SEO), demonstrating that storage affects its overall quality. In addition, the thymoquinone content in the N. sativa oil from the Marche region cultivar was higher compared with other N. sativa oils produced in the Middle East and in other Mediterranean regions. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., Interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6) were differently modulated by fresh and stored extracts from N. sativa oils: FEO, containing more thymoquinone reduced IL-6 levels significantly, while SEO inhibited IL-1beta and had a higher antioxidant activity. Total antioxidant activity, reported as µM of Trolox, was 11.273 ± 0.935 and 6.103 ± 0.446 for SEO and FEO (p = 1.255 × 10−7), respectively, while mean values of 9.895 ± 0.817 (SEO) and 4.727 ± 0.324 (FEO) were obtained with the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) assay (p = 2.891 × 10−14). In conclusion, the oil capacity to counteract proinflammatory cytokine production does not strictly depend on the thymoquinone content, but also on other antioxidant components of the oil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bordoni
- Unit of Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
| | - Donatella Fedeli
- Unit of Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Nasuti
- Unit of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
| | - Filippo Maggi
- Pharmaceutical Botany and Pharmacognosy Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Papa
- School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
| | - Raffaele De Caterina
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Rosita Gabbianelli
- Unit of Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino MC, Italy.
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