Redox Regulation of Inflammation: Old Elements, a New Story

Epimedin B exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by regulating the MAPK/NF-κB/NOD-like receptor signalling pathways

Epimedin B (EB), a predominant compound found in Herba Epimedii, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis and peripheral neuropathy. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of EB has not yet been reported. The anti-inflammatory activity of EB was evaluated in a zebrafish inflammation model induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4) and tail cutting. Our findings demonstrated that EB effectively inhibited acute inflammation, mitigated the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and ameliorated the neuroinflammation-associated impairment of locomotion in zebrafish. Moreover, EB regulates several genes related to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Nod-like receptor signalling pathways (mapk8b, src, mmp9, akt1, mapk14a, mapk14b, mapk1, egfra, map3k4, nfκb2, iκbαa, pycard, nlrp3 and caspase1) and inflammatory cytokine (stat6, arg1, irfɑ, stat1ɑ, il-1β, il-4, il-6, il-8, cox-2, ptges, tnf-α and tgf-β). Therefore, our findings indicate that EB could serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for treating inflammation.

Cellular and molecular mechanisms of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury: The role of oxidative stress and therapeutic approaches

Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) or reoxygenation injury is the paradoxical exacerbation of cellular impairment following restoration of blood flow after a period of ischemia during surgical procedures or other conditions. Acute interruption of blood supply to the liver and subsequent reperfusion can result in hepatocyte injury, apoptosis, and necrosis. Since the liver requires a continuous supply of oxygen for many biochemical reactions, any obstruction of blood flow can rapidly lead to hepatic hypoxia, which could quickly progress to absolute anoxia. Reoxygenation results in the increased generation of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, which lead to the enhanced production of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and other signaling molecules. Consequent acute inflammatory cascades lead to significant impairment of hepatocytes and nonparenchymal cells. Furthermore, the expression of several vascular growth factors results in the heterogeneous closure of numerous hepatic sinusoids, which leads to reduced oxygen supply in certain areas of the liver even after reperfusion. Therefore, it is vital to identify appropriate therapeutic modalities to mitigate hepatic IR injury and subsequent tissue damage. This review covers all the major aspects of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury, with special emphasis on oxidative stress, associated inflammation and complications, and prospective therapeutic approaches.

An Overview of the Potential Role of Nutrition in Mental Disorders in the Light of Advances in Nutripsychiatry

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As research on the potential impact of nutrition on mental disorders, a significant component of global disability continues to grow the concepts of "nutritional psychiatry, psycho-dietetics/nutripsychiatry" have taken their place in the literature. This review is a comprehensive examination of the literature on the the potential mechanisms between common mental disorders and nutrition and evaluates the effectiveness of dietary interventions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Inflammation, oxidative stress, intestinal microbiota, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neural plasticity are shown as potential mechanisms in the relationship between mental disorders and nutrition. As a matter of fact, neurotrophic factors, which make important contributions to repair mechanisms throughout life, and neuronal plasticity, which plays a role in mental disorders, are affected by nutritional factors. In metabolism, the antioxidant defense system works with nutritional cofactors and phytochemicals. A balanced, planned diet that provides these components is more likely to provide nutrients that increase resilience against the pathogenesis of mental disorders. Nutrition can be considered a risk factor for mental disorders. Therefore, developing public health strategies focused on improving diet may help reduce the global burden of mental disorders and other related diseases.

Exploring Immune Redox Modulation in Bacterial Infections: Insights into Thioredoxin-Mediated Interactions and Implications for Understanding Host-Pathogen Dynamics

Bacterial infections trigger a multifaceted interplay between inflammatory mediators and redox regulation. Recently, accumulating evidence has shown that redox signaling plays a significant role in immune initiation and subsequent immune cell functions. This review addresses the crucial role of the thioredoxin (Trx) system in the initiation of immune reactions and regulation of inflammatory responses during bacterial infections. Downstream signaling pathways in various immune cells involve thiol-dependent redox regulation, highlighting the pivotal roles of thiol redox systems in defense mechanisms. Conversely, the survival and virulence of pathogenic bacteria are enhanced by their ability to counteract oxidative stress and immune attacks. This is achieved through the reduction of oxidized proteins and the modulation of redox-sensitive signaling pathways, which are functions of the Trx system, thereby fortifying bacterial resistance. Moreover, some selenium/sulfur-containing compounds could potentially be developed into targeted therapeutic interventions for pathogenic bacteria. Taken together, the Trx system is a key player in redox regulation during bacterial infection, and contributes to host-pathogen interactions, offering valuable insights for future research and therapeutic development.

Guben Qingfei decoction attenuates LPS-induced acute lung injury by modulating the TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening and widespread disease, with exceptionally high morbidity and mortality rates. Unfortunately, effective drugs for ALI treatment are currently lacking. Guben Qingfei decoction (GBQF) is a Chinese herbal compound known for its efficacy in treating viral pneumonia, yet the precise underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to validate the mitigating effect of GBQF on ALI and to further investigate its mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An ALI mice model was established by infusing LPS into the endotracheal tube. The effects of GBQF on ALI were investigated by measuring lung W/D; MPO; BALF total protein concentration; total number of cells; TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels; pathological changes in lung tissue, and oxidation products. Immunohistochemistry and Western Blotting were performed to verify the underlying mechanisms. MH-S and BEAS-2B cells were induced by LPS, and the effects of GBQF were confirmed by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

GBQF significantly reduced LPS-induced ALI in mice, improved lung inflammation, reduced the production of oxidative products, increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and reduced the degree of lung tissue damage. GBQF prevents MH-S cells from releasing inflammatory factors and reduces oxidative damage to BEAS-2B cells. In vivo studies have delved deeper into the mechanism of action of GBQF, revealing its correlation with the TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that GBQF is an effective treatment for ALI, providing a new perspective on medication development for ALI treatment.

Effect of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin and Irisin on Post-Exercise Inflammatory Response: A Narrative Review

Physical activity has a positive effect on human health and emotional well-being. However, in both amateur and professional athletes, training poses a risk of acute or chronic injury through repetitive overloading of bones, joints, and muscles. Inflammation can be an adverse effect of intense exercise caused by several factors including oxidative stress. The present narrative review summarizes current knowledge on inflammatory markers induced by physical exercise. Post-exercise recovery may reduce inflammatory responses and is key to effective training and adaptation of muscle tissues to sustained physical exertion.

Roles of reactive oxygen species in inflammation and cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) constitute a spectrum of oxygenic metabolites crucial in modulating pathological organism functions. Disruptions in ROS equilibrium span various diseases, and current insights suggest a dual role for ROS in tumorigenesis and the immune response within cancer. This review rigorously examines ROS production and its role in normal cells, elucidating the subsequent regulatory network in inflammation and cancer. Comprehensive synthesis details the documented impacts of ROS on diverse immune cells. Exploring the intricate relationship between ROS and cancer immunity, we highlight its influence on existing immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint blockade, chimeric antigen receptors, and cancer vaccines. Additionally, we underscore the promising prospects of utilizing ROS and targeting ROS modulators as novel immunotherapeutic interventions for cancer. This review discusses the complex interplay between ROS, inflammation, and tumorigenesis, emphasizing the multifaceted functions of ROS in both physiological and pathological conditions. It also underscores the potential implications of ROS in cancer immunotherapy and suggests future research directions, including the development of targeted therapies and precision oncology approaches. In summary, this review emphasizes the significance of understanding ROS-mediated mechanisms for advancing cancer therapy and developing personalized treatments.

Etiopathogenesis of Psoriasis: Integration of Proposed Theories

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by squamous and erythematous plaques on the skin and the involvement of the immune system. Global prevalence for psoriasis has been reported around 1-3% with a higher incidence in adults and similar proportions between men and women. The risk factors associated with psoriasis are both extrinsic and intrinsic, out of which a polygenic predisposition is a highlight out of the latter. Psoriasis etiology is not yet fully described, but several hypothesis have been proposed: 1) the autoimmunity hypothesis is based on the over-expression of antimicrobial peptides such as LL-37, the proteins ADAMTSL5, K17, and hsp27, or lipids synthesized by the PLA2G4D enzyme, all of which may serve as autoantigens to promote the differentiation of autoreactive lymphocytes T and unleash a chronic inflammatory response; 2) dysbiosis of skin microbiota hypothesis in psoriasis has gained relevance due to the observations of a loss of diversity and the participation of pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus spp. or Staphylococcus spp. the fungi Malassezia spp. or Candida spp. and the virus HPV, HCV, or HIV in psoriatic plaques; 3) the oxidative stress hypothesis, the most recent one, describes that the cell injury and the release of proinflammatory mediators and antimicrobial peptides that leads to activate of the Th1/Th17 axis observed in psoriasis is caused by a higher release of reactive oxygen species and the imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant mechanisms. This review aims to describe the mechanisms involved in the three hypotheses on the etiopathogeneses of psoriasis.

S-nitrosothiol homeostasis maintained by ADH5 facilitates STING-dependent host defense against pathogens

Oxidative (or respiratory) burst confers host defense against pathogens by generating reactive species, including reactive nitrogen species (RNS). The microbial infection-induced excessive RNS damages many biological molecules via S-nitrosothiol (SNO) accumulation. However, the mechanism by which the host enables innate immunity activation during oxidative burst remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), the main endogenous SNO, attenuates innate immune responses against herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. Mechanistically, GSNO induces the S-nitrosylation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) at Cys257, inhibiting its binding to the second messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP). Alcohol dehydrogenase 5 (ADH5), the key enzyme that metabolizes GSNO to decrease cellular SNOs, facilitates STING activation by inhibiting S-nitrosylation. Concordantly, Adh5 deficiency show defective STING-dependent immune responses upon microbial challenge and facilitates viral replication. Thus, cellular oxidative burst-induced RNS attenuates the STING-mediated innate immune responses to microbial infection, while ADH5 licenses STING activation by maintaining cellular SNO homeostasis.

Protective Effect of the Naringin-Chitooligosaccharide Complex on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Systematic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Model in Mice

Naringin is one of the common flavonoids in grapefruit, which has anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its poor solubility limits its wide application. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of naringin combined with chitooligosaccharides with good biocompatibility by constructing a mouse model of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The results showed that the naringin-chitooligosaccharide (NG-COS) complex significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced weight loss, reduced food intake, tissue inflammatory infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, INF-γ, and IL-1β levels. The complex also significantly affected the content of malondialdehyde and the activities of MPO, SOD, and GSH in the liver, spleen, lungs, and serum of mice with systemic inflammation. In addition, NG-COS significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of inflammatory factors in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Principal component analysis showed that the complexes could inhibit LPS-induced systemic inflammation in mice, and the effect was significantly better than that of naringin and chitooligosaccharides alone. This study explored the synergistic effects of chitosan and naringin in reducing inflammation and could contribute to the development of novel biomedical interventions.

Dynamics of oxidative stress and immune responses in neonatal calves during diarrhea

Oxidative stress is the imbalanced redox status between oxidant production and their scavengers leading to intestinal physiological dysfunction. However, the role of systemic and local oxidative status during neonatal calf diarrhea is not known. This study assessed systemic (serum) and local (fecal) oxidative status when calves either naturally developed diarrhea or naturally recovered. Healthy calves were enrolled in the study at d 18 of age, and their health status was monitored from the enrollment. Based on their enteric health status on d 21 and 28, calves were grouped as continuous diarrhea from d 21 to 28 (n = 14), diarrhea at d 21 but recovered at d 28 (DH group, n = 19), healthy at d 21 but developed diarrhea at d 28 (HD group, n = 15), and healthy throughout the study (HH group, n = 16). Serum and fecal samples were collected at d 21 and 28 from all calves in the morning 2 h after feeding. Dynamics of oxidative stress indicators including reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), H2O2, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHDG), glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity and inflammatory indicators TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ were evaluated using serum samples. In addition, fecal oxidative stress indicators ROS and MDA were measured. Serum ROS, MDA, 8-OHDG, as well as fecal ROS and MDA, were higher, whereas serum CAT and H2O2 were lower in diarrheic calves than those of healthy calves. Serum ROS, MDA, and 8OHDG and fecal ROS and MDA increased in the HD group from d 21 to 28 as they developed diarrhea. In contrast, all these oxidative stress markers decreased in the DH group from d 21 to 28 as they recovered. However, serum H2O2 had an opposite changing trend, which became lower in the HD group and higher in the DH group at d 28. In conclusion, both systemic and local oxidative stress markers and cytokine profiles altered as calves moved from being healthy to having diarrhea or vice versa. Serum ROS, MDA, and 8-OHDG can be used to develop biomarkers to screen calves prone to enteric infections during the preweaning period.

Silymarin and Inflammation: Food for Thoughts

Inflammation is a vital defense mechanism, creating hostile conditions for pathogens, preventing the spread of tissue infection and repairing damaged tissues in humans and animals. However, when inflammation resolution is delayed or compromised as a result of its misregulation, the process proceeds from the acute phase to chronic inflammation, leading to the development of various chronic illnesses. It is proven that redox balance disturbances and oxidative stress are among major factors inducing NF-κB and leading to over-inflammation. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory properties of various natural antioxidants have been widely tested in various in vitro and in vivo systems. Accumulating evidence indicates that silymarin (SM) and its main constituent silibinin/silybin (SB) have great potential as an anti-inflammation agent. The main anti-inflammatory mechanism of SM/SB action is attributed to the inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB-mediated signaling pathways and the downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-23, CCL4, CXCL10, etc. Of note, in the same model systems, SM/SB was able to upregulate anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, TGF-β, etc.) and lipid mediators involved in the resolution of inflammation. The inflammatory properties of SM/SB were clearly demonstrated in model systems based on immune (macrophages and monocytes) and non-immune (epithelial, skin, bone, connective tissue and cancer) cells. At the same time, the anti-inflammatory action of SM/SB was confirmed in a number of in vivo models, including toxicity models, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, ischemia/reperfusion models, stress-induced injuries, ageing and exercising models, wound healing and many other relevant model systems. It seems likely that the anti-inflammatory activities of SM/SB are key elements on the health-promoting properties of these phytochemicals.

Prediction of Early Atherosclerotic Plaques Using a Sequence-Activated Fluorescence Probe for the Simultaneous Detection of γ-Glutamyl Transpeptidase and Hypobromous Acid

Atherosclerosis is a lipoprotein-driven disease, and there is no effective therapy to reverse atherosclerosis or existing plaques. Therefore, it is urgently necessary to create a noninvasive and reliable approach for early atherosclerosis detection to prevent initial plaque formation. Atherosclerosis is intimately associated with inflammation, which is accompanied by an excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cells requiring more glutathione (GSH) to resist severe oxidative stress. Therefore, the GSH-hydrolyzed protein γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and the ROS-hypobromous acid (HBrO) are potential biomarkers for predicting atherogenesis. Hence, to avoid false-positive diagnoses caused by a single biomarker, we constructed an ingenious sequence-activated double-locked TP fluorescent probe, C-HBrO-GGT, in which two sequential triggers of GGT and HBrO are meticulously designed to ensure that the probe fluoresces in response to HBrO only after GGT hydrolyzes the probe. By utilization of C-HBrO-GGT, the voltage-gated chloride channel (CLC-1)-HBrO-catalase (CAT)-GGT signaling pathway was confirmed in cellular level. Notably, the forthcoming atherosclerotic plaques were successfully predicted before the plaques could be observed via the naked eye or classical immunofluorescent staining. Collectively, this research proposed a powerful tool to indicate the precise position of mature plaques and provide early warning of atherosclerotic plaques.

Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Nanozymes: Emerging Therapeutics for Acute Liver Injury Alleviation

Acute liver injury (AIL), a fatal clinical disease featured with a swift deterioration of hepatocyte functions in the short term, has emerged as a serious public health issues that warrants attention. However, the effectiveness of existing small molecular antioxidants and anti-inflammatory medications in alleviating AIL remains uncertain. The unique inherent structural characteristics of liver confer it a natural propensity for nanoparticle capture, which present an opportunity to exploit in the formulation of nanoscale therapeutic agents, enabling their selective accumulation in the liver and thereby facilitating targeted therapeutic interventions. Significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and inflammation response have been evidenced to play crucial roles in occurrence and development of AIL. Nanozymes with ROS-scavenging capacities have demonstrated considerable promise in ROS elimination and inflammation regulation, thereby offering an appealing therapeutic instrument for the management of acute liver injury. In this review, the mechanisms of different type of ALI were summarized. In addition, we provide a comprehensive summary and review of the available ROS-scavenging nanozymes, including transition metal-based nanozymes, noble metal nanozymes, carbon-based nanozymes, and some other nanozymes. Furthermore, the challenges still need to be solved in the field of ROS-scavenging nanozymes for ALI alleviation are also discussed.

Applications of cold atmospheric plasma in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases via redox homeostasis: evidence and prospects

As a representative technology in plasma medicine, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has beneficial outcomes in surface disinfection, wound repair, tissue regeneration, solid tumor therapy. Impact on immune response and inflammatory conditions was also observed in the process of CAP treatment. Relevant literatures were collected to assess efficacy and summarize possible mechanisms of the innovation. CAP mediates alteration in local immune microenvironment mainly through two ways. One is to down-regulate the expression level of several cytokines, impeding further conduction of immune or inflammatory signals. Intervening the functional phenotype of cells through different degree of oxidative stress is the other approach to manage the immune-mediated inflammatory disorders. A series of preclinical and clinical studies confirmed the therapeutic effect and side effects free of CAP. Moreover, several suggestions proposed in this manuscript might help to find directions for future investigation.

Ginkgo biloba Extract 50 (GBE50) Exerts Antifibrotic and Antioxidant Effects on Pulmonary Fibrosis in Mice by Regulating Nrf2 and TGF-β1/Smad Pathways

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive lung disorder with a poor prognosis. GBE50 is a new standardized Ginkgo biloba extract that has been widely used in cardiovascular diseases. However, the protective mechanism of GBE50 against PF remains to be elucidated.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were treated with bleomycin (Bleo) to induce PF in the presence or absence of GBE50. Protein content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and wet weight/dry weight ratio were examined for analysis of pulmonary edema. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson trichrome staining were used for histopathological observation of murine lung tissues. Ashcroft score was used for semi-quantitation of lung fibrosis degree. RT-qPCR was utilized for assessing mRNA levels of pro-fibrotic mediators in lung tissues. TUNEL staining was implemented for cell apoptosis assessment. The levels of oxidative stress- and inflammation-related markers were evaluated by corresponding commercial assay kits. Western blotting was used to evaluate levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling- and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/SMAD signaling-related proteins.

RESULTS

GBE50 alleviated lung injury and severity of fibrosis, reduced collagen deposition and cell apoptosis in lung tissues, and suppressed inflammatory response and oxidative stress injury in Bleo-stimulated PF mice. GBE50 activated Nrf2 signaling pathway and inactivated TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway in the lungs of Bleo-induced PF mice. Inhibition of Nrf2 signaling reversed GBE50-mediated inactivation of TGF-β1/SMAD signaling and attenuation of inflammation and oxidative stress in Bleo-induced PF mice.

CONCLUSION

GBE50 protects against Bleo-induced PF in mice by mitigating fibrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress via Nrf2 and TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathways.

Cistanche deserticola Polysaccharide Reduces Inflammation and Aging Phenotypes in the Dermal Fibroblasts through the Activation of the NRF2/HO-1 Pathway

Dermal fibroblasts maintain the skin homeostasis by interacting with the epidermis and extracellular matrix. Their senescence contributes to functional defects in the skin related to aging. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic agents that could inhibit fibroblast senescence. In this study, we investigated the effects of Cistanche deserticola polysaccharide (CDP), a natural anti-inflammatory component, on the progression of senescence in human dermal fibroblasts. Normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) were cultured in passages, and highly senescent cells were selected as senescent cells. CDP treatment increased the cell proliferation in senescent NHDFs and decreased the proportion of senescence-associated-β-galactosidase-positive cells. The treatment suppressed the senescence-related secretory phenotype, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was reduced, alleviating H2O2-induced oxidative stress. CDP mitigated ROS formation via the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor/heme oxygenase-1 pathway in senescent cells and was involved in the suppression of upstream p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase. These results indicate that CDP is an antioxidant that can alleviate age-related inflammation and may be a useful compound for skin anti-aging.

Toxicity of the spike protein of COVID-19 is a redox shift phenomenon: A novel therapeutic approach

We previously demonstrated that most diseases display a form of anabolism due to mitochondrial impairment: in cancer, a daughter cell is formed; in Alzheimer's disease, amyloid plaques; in inflammation cytokines and lymphokines. The infection by Covid-19 follows a similar pattern. Long-term effects include redox shift and cellular anabolism as a result of the Warburg effect and mitochondrial dysfunction. This unrelenting anabolism leads to the cytokine storm, chronic fatigue, chronic inflammation or neurodegenerative diseases. Drugs such as Lipoic acid and Methylene Blue have been shown to enhance the mitochondrial activity, relieve the Warburg effect and increase catabolism. Similarly, coMeBining Methylene Blue, Chlorine dioxide and Lipoic acid may help reduce long-term Covid-19 effects by stimulating the catabolism.

Amifostine attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

Amifostine is a normal cell protection agent, not only used in the adjuvant therapy of lung cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, bone tumor, digestive tract tumor, blood system tumor and other cancers in order to reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy drugs, and recent studies have reported that the drug can also reduce lung tissue damage in patients with pulmonary fibrosis, but its mechanism of action is not yet fully understood. In this study, we explored the potential therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of AMI on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. A mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis was established using BLM. We then assessed histopathological changes, inflammatory factors, oxidative indicators, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, extracellular matrix changes, and levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway-related proteins in the BLM-treated mice to determine the effect of AMI treatment on these factors. BLM-treated mice had substantial lung inflammation and abnormal extracellular matrix deposition. Overall, treatment with AMI significantly improved BLM-induced lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. More specifically, AMI alleviated BLM-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, alveolar cell apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and extracellular matrix deposition by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. This finding that AMI can alleviate pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model by inhibiting activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway lays a foundation for potential future clinical application of this agent in patients with pulmonary fibrosis.

Radical oxygen species: an important breakthrough point for botanical drugs to regulate oxidative stress and treat the disorder of glycolipid metabolism

Background: The incidence of glycolipid metabolic diseases is extremely high worldwide, which greatly hinders people's life expectancy and patients' quality of life. Oxidative stress (OS) aggravates the development of diseases in glycolipid metabolism. Radical oxygen species (ROS) is a key factor in the signal transduction of OS, which can regulate cell apoptosis and contribute to inflammation. Currently, chemotherapies are the main method to treat disorders of glycolipid metabolism, but this can lead to drug resistance and damage to normal organs. Botanical drugs are an important source of new drugs. They are widely found in nature with availability, high practicality, and low cost. There is increasing evidence that herbal medicine has definite therapeutic effects on glycolipid metabolic diseases. Objective: This study aims to provide a valuable method for the treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases with botanical drugs from the perspective of ROS regulation by botanical drugs and to further promote the development of effective drugs for the clinical treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases. Methods: Using herb*, plant medicine, Chinese herbal medicine, phytochemicals, natural medicine, phytomedicine, plant extract, botanical drug, ROS, oxygen free radicals, oxygen radical, oxidizing agent, glucose and lipid metabolism, saccharometabolism, glycometabolism, lipid metabolism, blood glucose, lipoprotein, triglyceride, fatty liver, atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes, dysglycemia, NAFLD, and DM as keywords or subject terms, relevant literature was retrieved from Web of Science and PubMed databases from 2013 to 2022 and was summarized. Results: Botanical drugs can regulate ROS by regulating mitochondrial function, endoplasmic reticulum, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and other signaling pathways to improve OS and treat glucolipid metabolic diseases. Conclusion: The regulation of ROS by botanical drugs is multi-mechanism and multifaceted. Both cell studies and animal experiments have demonstrated the effectiveness of botanical drugs in the treatment of glycolipid metabolic diseases by regulating ROS. However, studies on safety need to be further improved, and more studies are needed to support the clinical application of botanical drugs.

Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of NRF2 in Kidney Injury and Diseases

Redox is a constant phenomenon in organisms. From the signaling pathway transduction to the oxidative stress during the inflammation and disease process, all are related to reduction-oxidation (redox). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor targeting many antioxidant genes. In non-stressed conditions, NRF2 maintains the hemostasis of redox with housekeeping work. It expresses constitutively with basal activity, maintained by Kelch-like-ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)-associated ubiquitination and degradation. When encountering stress, it can be up-regulated by several mechanisms to exert its anti-oxidative ability in diseases or inflammatory processes to protect tissues and organs from further damage. From acute kidney injury to chronic kidney diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy or glomerular disease, many results of studies have suggested that, as a master of regulating redox, NRF2 is a therapeutic option. It was not until the early termination of the clinical phase 3 trial of diabetic nephropathy due to heart failure as an unexpected side effect that we renewed our understanding of NRF2. NRF2 is not just a simple antioxidant capacity but has pleiotropic activities, harmful or helpful, depending on the conditions and backgrounds.

PPAR-γ activation promotes xenogenic bioroot regeneration by attenuating the xenograft induced-oxidative stress

Xenogenic organ transplantation has been considered the most promising strategy in providing possible substitutes with the physiological function of the failing organs as well as solving the problem of insufficient donor sources. However, the xenograft, suffered from immune rejection and ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), causes massive reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression and the subsequent cell apoptosis, leading to the xenograft failure. Our previous study found a positive role of PPAR-γ in anti-inflammation through its immunomodulation effects, which inspires us to apply PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone (RSG) to address survival issue of xenograft with the potential to eliminate the excessive ROS. In this study, xenogenic bioroot was constructed by wrapping the dental follicle cells (DFC) with porcine extracellular matrix (pECM). The hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced DFC was pretreated with RSG to observe its protection on the damaged biological function. Immunoflourescence staining and transmission electron microscope were used to detect the intracellular ROS level. SD rat orthotopic transplantation model and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) knockout mice subcutaneous transplantation model were applied to explore the regenerative outcome of the xenograft. It showed that RSG pretreatment significantly reduced the adverse effects of H₂O₂ on DFC with decreased intracellular ROS expression and alleviated mitochondrial damage. In vivo results confirmed RSG administration substantially enhanced the host's antioxidant capacity with reduced osteoclasts formation and increased periodontal ligament-like tissue regeneration efficiency, maximumly maintaining the xenograft function. We considered that RSG preconditioning could preserve the biological properties of the transplanted stem cells under oxidative stress (OS) microenvironment and promote organ regeneration by attenuating the inflammatory reaction and OS injury.

Global Thiol Proteome Analysis Provides Novel Insights into the Macrophage Inflammatory Response and Its Regulation by the Thioredoxin System

Aims: Oxidative modifications of cysteine (Cys) thiols regulate various physiological processes, including inflammatory responses. The thioredoxin (Trx) system plays a key role in thiol redox control. The aim of this study was to characterize the dynamic cysteine proteome of human macrophages upon activation by the prototypical proinflammatory agent, bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and/or perturbation of the Trx system. Results: In this study, we profiled the cellular and redox proteome of human THP-1-derived macrophages during the early phase of LPS activation and/or inhibition of Trx system activity by auranofin (AF) by employing a peptide-centric, resin-assisted capture, redox proteomic workflow. Among 4200 identified cysteines, oxidation of nearly 10% was selectively affected by LPS or AF treatments. Notably, the proteomic analysis uncovered a subset of ∼100 thiols, mapped to proteins involved in diverse processes, whose oxidation is antagonistically regulated by LPS and Trx. Compared with the redox proteome, the cellular proteome was largely unchanged, highlighting the importance of redox modification as a mechanism that allows for rapid modulation of macrophage activities in response to a proinflammatory or pro-oxidant insult. Structural-functional analyses provided mechanistic insights into redox regulation of selected proteins, including the glutathione-synthesizing enzyme, glutamate-cysteine ligase, and the autophagy adaptor, SQSTM1/p62, suggesting mechanisms by which macrophages adapt and fine-tune their responses according to a changing inflammatory and redox environment. Innovation: This study provides a rich resource for further characterization of redox mechanisms that regulate macrophage inflammatory activities. Conclusion: The dynamic thiol redox proteome allows macrophages to efficiently respond and adapt to redox and inflammatory challenges. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 388-402.

Two smart coumarin-based fluorescent probes with AIE effect for sensing ClO- and imaging in living cells

It's worth noting that detect effective methods for tracking ClO^- could help us uncover the function of ClO^- in living systems. Here, two coumarin-based probes, named (E)-3-(1-hydrazonoethyl)-2H-chromen-2-one (1A) and 3-((E)-1-(((E)-(2,3-dihydro-1H-imidazol-4-yl)methylene)-hydrazono)ethyl)- 2H-chromen-2-one (1B) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect in Tris-HCl (pH = 7.2) buffer solution were synthesized and used for sensing ClO^- selectivity. 1A and 1B responded to ClO^- through the oxidation hydrolysis effect. The mechanism was further verified by HR-MS and DFT calculation. Cell imaging indicated that 1A and 1B were good membrane permeability with low toxicity to HEK293T, and expected to be used to detect ClO^- in cells.

Shear stress enhances anoikis resistance of cancer cells through ROS and NO suppressed degeneration of Caveolin-1

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) acquire enhanced anti-anoikis abilities after experiencing flow shear stress in the circulatory system. Our previous study demonstrated that low shear stress (LSS) promotes anoikis resistance of human breast carcinoma cells via caveolin-1 (Cav-1)-dependent extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. However, the underlying mechanism how LSS enhanced Cav-1 expression in suspended cancer cells remains unclear. Herein, we found that LSS induced redox signaling was involved in the regulation of Cav-1 level and anoikis resistance in suspension cultured cancer cells. Exposure of human breast carcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells to LSS (2 dyn/cm²) markedly induced ROS and ^•NO generation, which promoted the cell viability and reduced the cancer cell apoptosis. Furthermore, ROS and ^•NO scavenging inhibited the upregulation of Cav-1 by interfering ubiquitination, and suppressed the anoikis resistance of suspended tumor cells. These findings provide new insight into the mechanism by which LSS-stimulated ROS and ^•NO generation increases Cav-1 stabilization in suspended cancer cells through inhibition of ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, which could be a potential target for therapy of metastatic tumors.

The role of ageing and oxidative stress in intervertebral disc degeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the primary cause of intervertebral disc (IVD) disease. With the increased ageing of society, an increasing number of patients are plagued by intervertebral disc disease. Ageing not only accelerates the decreased vitality and functional loss of intervertebral disc cells but also increases intracellular oxidative stress. Moreover, the speed of intervertebral disc ageing is also linked to high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Not only is the production of ROS increased in ageing intervertebral disc cells, but antioxidant levels in degenerative intervertebral discs also decrease. In addition to the intervertebral disc, the structural components of the intervertebral disc matrix are vulnerable to oxidative damage. After chronic mitochondrial dysfunction, ROS can be produced in large quantities, while autophagy can eliminate these impaired mitochondria to reduce the production of ROS. Oxidative stress has a marked impact on the occurrence of IDD. In the future, IDD treatment is aiming to improve oxidative stress by regulating the redox balance in intervertebral disc cells. In summary, ageing and oxidative stress promote the degeneration of IVD, but further basic and clinical trials are needed to determine how to treat oxidative stress. At present, although there are many in-depth studies on the relationship between oxidative stress and degeneration of intervertebral disc cells, the specific mechanism has not been elucidated. In this paper, the main causes of intervertebral disc diseases are studied and summarized, and the impact of oxidative stress on intervertebral disc degeneration is studied.

SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION, IN-SILICO, AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF NEW 2-AMINO-6-TRIFLUOROMETHOXY BENZOTHIAZOLE DERIVATIVES

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a relentless neurodegenerative disorder, is still waiting for safer profile drugs, risk factors affecting AD's pathogenesis include aβ accumulation, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. This research aimed to synthesize 2-amino-6‑trifluoromethoxy benzothiazole schiff bases. Synthesis was straightforward, combining the riluzole skeleton with compounds containing the azomethine group. Schiff bases synthesized were characterized spectroscopically using proton NMR (¹H NMR), and FTIR. In-vivo biological evaluation against scopolamine-induced neuronal damage revealed that these newly synthesized schiff bases were effective in protecting neurons against neuroinflammatory mediators. In-vitro results revealed that these compounds had remarkable potential in improving the anti-oxidant levels. It downregulated glutathione (GSH), glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase levels, and upregulated lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that groups treated with the newly synthesized schiff bases had reduced expression of inflammatory mediators such as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), JNK, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) in contrast to the disease group. Moreover, molecular docking studies on these compounds also showed that they possessed a better binding affinity for above mentioned inflammatory mediators. The results of these studies showed that 2-amino-6-trifluoromethoxy benzothiazole schiff bases are remarkably effective against oxidative stress-mediated neuroinflammation.

Anti-inflammatory effects of β-ionone-curcumin hybrid derivatives against ulcerative colitis

A series of β-ionone-curcumin hybrid derivatives were designed and chosen to merge the biological characteristics of two parent molecules and to obtain a leading compound with higher biological activity. Through the initial screening, the structure activity relationship of their hybrid derivatives as inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) production showed that meta-substituted derivatives exhibited the best inhibitory activity, among which 1h was the best one. In lipopolysaccharide-induced Raw264.7 macrophage cells, 1h showed anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the productions of NO and reactive oxygen species, the expressions of Interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α, and the translocation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB from the cytosol to the nucleus. Furthermore, molecular docking simulation displayed that 1h could interact with cluster of differentiation 14 to inhibit the toll-like receptor 4/NF-κB signaling. In dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) of mice, 100 mg/kg of 1h could significantly reduce the colon length shortening and protect against colon injury, liver injury and oxidative stress in DSS-induced UC of mice. Besides, 1h was safety in vivo. In conclusion, 1h was the potential anti-inflammatory agent, and further investigations were underway in our laboratory.

The Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 by 8-Epi-7-deoxyloganic Acid Attenuates Inflammatory Symptoms through the Suppression of the MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Cascade in In Vitro and In Vivo Models

In this study, we examined the ameliorative effects of 8-epi-7-deoxyloganic acid (DLA), an iridoid glycoside, on oxidative stress and inflammation in both LPS-stimulated macrophages and mice with carrageenan-induced inflammation. DLA decreased oxidative stress through the up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) via the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), leading to the suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide generation (NO). In addition, DLA inhibited the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway, resulting in a decreased production of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and -6 (IL-6), as well as of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). In addition, DLA effectively inhibited the generation of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by inhibiting the expression of the upstream genes inducible nitric oxidase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). DLA demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and thus appears as an intriguing prospective therapeutic treatment.

Synaptamide Modulates Astroglial Activity in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

At present, the study of the neurotropic activity of polyunsaturated fatty acid ethanolamides (N-acylethanolamines) is becoming increasingly important. N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (synaptamide, DHEA) is a highly active metabolite of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with neuroprotective, synaptogenic, neuritogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties in the nervous system. Synaptamide tested in the present study was obtained using a chemical modification of DHA isolated from squid Berryteuthis magister liver. The results of this study demonstrate the effects of synaptamide on the astroglial response to injury in the acute (1 day) and chronic (7 days) phases of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) development. HPLC-MS study revealed several times increase of synaptamide concentration in the cerebral cortex and serum of experimental animals after subcutaneous administration (10 mg/kg/day). Using immunohistochemistry, it was shown that synaptamide regulates the activation of GFAP- and S100β-positive astroglia, reduce nNOS-positive immunostaining, and stimulates the secretion of neurotrophin BDNF. Dynamics of superoxide dismutase production in synaptamide treatment confirm the antioxidant efficacy of the test compound. We found a decrease in TBI biomarkers such as GFAP, S100β, and IL-6 in the blood serum of synaptamide-treated experimental animals using Western blot analysis. The results indicate the high therapeutic potential of synaptamide in reducing the severity of the brain damage consequences.

Chemistry of Hydrogen Peroxide Formation and Elimination in Mammalian Cells, and Its Role in Various Pathologies

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a compound involved in some mammalian reactions and processes. It modulates and signals the redox metabolism of cells by acting as a messenger together with hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the nitric oxide radical (•NO), activating specific oxidations that determine the metabolic response. The reaction triggered determines cell survival or apoptosis, depending on which downstream metabolic pathways are activated. There are several ways to produce H2O2 in cells, and cellular systems tightly control its concentration. At the cellular level, the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide can trigger inflammation and even apoptosis, and when its concentration in the blood reaches toxic levels, it can lead to bioenergetic failure. This review summarizes existing research from a chemical perspective on the role of H2O2 in various enzymatic pathways and how this biochemistry leads to physiological or pathological responses.

Reactive Oxygen Species Bridge the Gap between Chronic Inflammation and Tumor Development

According to numerous animal studies, adverse environmental stimuli, including physical, chemical, and biological factors, can cause low-grade chronic inflammation and subsequent tumor development. Human epidemiological evidence has confirmed the close relationship between chronic inflammation and tumorigenesis. However, the mechanisms driving the development of persistent inflammation toward tumorigenesis remain unclear. In this study, we assess the potential role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and associated mechanisms in modulating inflammation-induced tumorigenesis. Recent reports have emphasized the cross-talk between oxidative stress and inflammation in many pathological processes. Exposure to carcinogenic environmental hazards may lead to oxidative damage, which further stimulates the infiltration of various types of inflammatory cells. In turn, increased cytokine and chemokine release from inflammatory cells promotes ROS production in chronic lesions, even in the absence of hazardous stimuli. Moreover, ROS not only cause DNA damage but also participate in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis by modulating several transcription factors and signaling pathways. We summarize how changes in the redox state can trigger the development of chronic inflammatory lesions into tumors. Generally, cancer cells require an appropriate inflammatory microenvironment to support their growth, spread, and metastasis, and ROS may provide the necessary catalyst for inflammation-driven cancer. In conclusion, ROS bridge the gap between chronic inflammation and tumor development; therefore, targeting ROS and inflammation represents a new avenue for the prevention and treatment of cancer.

Qingfei Litan Decoction Against Acute Lung Injury/Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: The Potential Roles of Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidative Effects

Acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) is an acute respiratory failure syndrome characterized by progressive arterial hypoxemia and dyspnea. Qingfei Litan (QFLT) decoction, as a classic prescription for the treatment of acute respiratory infections, is effective for the treatment of ALI/ARDS. In this study, the compounds, hub targets, and major pathways of QFLT in ALI/ARDS treatment were analyzed using Ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) and systemic pharmacology strategies. UHPLC-MS identified 47 main components of QFLT. To explore its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative mechanisms, gene ontology (Go) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment and network pharmacological analysis were conducted based on the main 47 components. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that TNF signaling pathway and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway may be the key pathways of ALI/ARDS. We explored the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative pharmacological effects of QFLT in treatment of ALI/ARDS in vivo and in vitro. QFLT suppressed the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and alleviated oxidative stress in LPS-challenged mice. In vitro, QFLT decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β secreted by LPS-activated macrophages, increased GSH level and decreased the LPS-activated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in lung epithelial A549 cells. This study suggested that QFLT may have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects on ALI/ARDS, combining in vivo and in vitro experiments with systemic pharmacology, providing a potential therapeutic strategy option.

Cassia artemisiodes attenuates nociceptive and diabetes-induced neuropathic pain modalities apropos antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms

Cassia plants have a considerable position in conventional systems of medicine. The possible anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-neuropathic properties of Cassia artemisiodes (CAD) extract were tested using the standard animal models. In this study, in vitro antioxidant, cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and 2), and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) inhibitory assays were performed. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan, histamine, and serotonin-induced paw edema models. Antipyretic activity, thermally and chemically-induced nociception, and naloxone antagonistic activities were carried out. The CAD extract was tested for anti-neuropathic activity in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic neuropathy model. Suppressing the effect of CAD extract on the mRNA level of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), COX-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) was determined by performing RT-PCR. The CAD extract inhibited COX-2 and 5-LOX enzymes, paw inflammation, and reduced nociceptive behaviors. The mRNA gene expression of iNOS, COX-2, and inflammatory cytokines was reduced significantly with increased DPPH scavenging activity. The extract significantly reduced the diabetes-induced neuropathic pain. In a nutshell, these results recommended that the CAD extract has anti-nociceptive and anti-neuropathic activities due to inhibition of inflammatory and oxidative signaling.

Metabolomics-based molecular signatures reveal the toxic effect of co-exposure to nitrosamines in drinking water

Nitrosamines, a group of emerging nitrogenous pollutants, are ubiquitously found in the drinking water system. However, less is known about how systemic biological responses resist or tolerate nitrosamines, especially long-term co-exposure at low concentrations. In this study, untargeted metabolomics was used to investigate the metabolic perturbations in human esophageal epithelial Het-1A cells induced by a mixture of nine common nitrosamines in drinking water at environmentally relevant, human-internal-exposure, and genotoxic concentrations. Generally, the disrupted metabolic spectrum became complicated with nitrosamines dose increasing. Notably, two inflammation-associated pathways, namely, cysteine (Cys) and methionine (MET) metabolism, and nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, changed significantly under the action of nitrosamines, even at the environmentally relevant level. Furthermore, targeted metabolomics and molecular biology indicators in cells were identified in mice synchronously. For one thing, the up-regulated Cys and MET metabolism provided methyl donors for histone methylation in the context of pro-inflammatory response. For another, the down-regulated NAD⁺/NADH ratio inhibited the deacetylation of NF-кB p65 and eventually activated the NF-кB signaling pathway. Taken collectively, the metabolomics molecular signatures were important indicative markers for nitrosamines-induced inflammation. The potential crosstalk between the inflammatory cascade and metabolic regulation also requires further studies. These findings suggest that more attention should be paid to long-term co-exposure at low concentrations in the control of nitrosamines pollution in drinking water. Additionally, this study also highlights a good prospect of the combined metabolomic-molecular biology approach in environmental toxicology.

Therapeutic Potential of Superoxide Dismutase Fused with Cell-Penetrating Peptides in Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a well-known cellular antioxidant enzyme. However, exogenous SOD cannot be used to protect tissues from oxidative damage due to the low permeability of the cell membrane. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are a class of short peptides that can cross the cell membrane. Recombinant fusion protein that fuses SOD protein with CPP (CPP-SOD) can cross various tissues and organs as well as the blood-brain barrier. CPP-SODs can relieve severe oxidative damage in various tissues caused by radiation, ischemia, inflammation, and chemotherapy by clearing the reactive oxygen species, reducing the expression of inflammatory factors, and inhibiting NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways. Therefore, the clinical application of CPP-SODs provide new therapeutic strategies for a variety of oxidative stress-related disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, obesity, cardiac fibrosis, and premature aging.

Prooxidative inhibition against NF-κB-mediated inflammation by pharmacological vitamin C

Vitamin C (VC), widely found in vegetables and fruits, operates as an electron donor to perform various biological functions including anti-inflammatory activity. However, the mechanisms by which VC inhibits inflammation remain insufficiently understood. Accordingly, we performed a detail mechanistic study on anti-inflammatory activity of VC at millimolar (pharmacological) concentrations in lipopolysaccharides-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. It was found that VC and its two-electron oxidative product, dehydroascorbate (DHA) constructs an efficient redox cycle with the aid of intracellular glutathione and copper ions, thereby facilitating the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ROS-dependent inhibition against the NF-κB-mediated inflammation.

Protective effects of low-temperature plasma on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

The application of atmospheric pressure low-temperature plasma (LTP) in medical treatment has received extensive attention owing to its redox regulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Nephrotoxicity due to oxidative stress and inflammation is the main adverse effect of cisplatin. In the present study, rats with cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity were treated with LTP to investigate its potential protective effect. The results showed that LTP treatment has multiple protective effects on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. It significantly improved clinical indicators such as survival rate, water intake, food intake, body weight, and mobility, as well as physiological indexes such as reduced renal index and levels of serum urea, creatinine, and total bilirubin; pathological indicators such as reduced tubular injury, inflammatory infiltration, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and apoptosis; cell survival indicators such as decreased protein levels of Caspase-3 and Bax and increased Bcl-2; anti-oxidation status such as reduced malondialdehyde content and increased activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase; and reduced inflammatory factors such as TNF-α in kidney tissues. Specially, LTP treatment did not influence the anticancer effect of cisplatin as observed in the solid tumor mouse model established by subcutaneously inoculating H22 cells. Moreover, LTP did not influence the physiological and pathological indicators of normal rats, suggesting its biological safety. In conclusion, LTP can protect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity through its anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis effects, without influencing the anticancer effect of cisplatin.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a very common type of degenerative disease causing severe socioeconomic impact, as well as a major cause of discogenic low back pain and herniated discs, placing a heavy burden on patients and the clinicians who treat them. IDD is known to be associating with a complex process involving in extracellular matrix and cellular damage, and in recent years, there is increasing evidence that oxidative stress is an important activation mechanism of IDD and that reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species regulate matrix metabolism, proinflammatory phenotype, autophagy and senescence in intervertebral disc cells, apoptosis, autophagy, and senescence. Despite the tremendous efforts of researchers within the field of IDD pathogenesis, the proven strategies to prevent and treat this disease are still very limited. Up to now, several antioxidants have been proved to be effective for alleviating IDD. In this article, we discussed that oxidative stress accelerates disc degeneration by influencing aging, inflammation, autophagy, and DNA methylation, and summarize some antioxidant therapeutic measures for IDD, indicating that antioxidant therapy for disc degeneration holds excellent promise.

Clues and new evidences in arterial hypertension: unmasking the role of the chloride anion

The present review will focus on the role of chloride anion in cardiovascular disease, with special emphasis in the development of hypertensive disease and vascular inflammation. It is known that acute and chronic overload of sodium chloride increase blood pressure and have pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects on different target organs, but it is unknown how chloride may influence these processes. Chloride anion is the predominant anion in the extracellular fluid and its intracellular concentration is dynamically regulated. As the queen of the electrolytes, it is of crucial importance to understand the physiological mechanisms that regulate the cellular handling of this anion including the different transporters and cellular chloride channels, which exert a variety of functions, such as regulation of cellular proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, intracellular pH and cellular redox state. In this article, we will also review the relationship between dietary, serum and intracellular chloride and how these different sources of chloride in the organism are affected in hypertension and their impact on cardiovascular disease. Additionally, we will discuss the approach of potential strategies that affect chloride handling and its potential effect on cardiovascular system, including pharmacological blockade of chloride channels and non-pharmacological interventions by replacing chloride by another anion.

Meta-substituted piperlongumine derivatives attenuate inflammation in both RAW264.7 macrophages and a mouse model of colitis

Piperlongumine (PL) has been showed to have multiple pharmacological activities. In this study, we reported the synthesis of three series of PL derivatives, and evaluation of their anti-inflammatory effects in both lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Raw264.7 macrophages and a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of colitis. Our results presented that two meta-substituent containing derivatives 1-3 and 1-6, in which γ-butyrolactam replaced α,β-unsaturated δ-valerolactam ring of PL, displayed low cytotoxicity and effective anti-inflammatory activity. Molecular docking also showed that the meta-substituted derivative, compared with the corresponding ortho- or para-substituted derivative, had significant interactions with the amino acid residues of CD14, which was the core receptors recognizing LPS. In vitro and in vivo studies, 1-3 and 1-6 could inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the excessive production of reactive nitrogen species and reactive oxygen species. Oral administration of 100 mg/kg/day of 1-3 or 1-6 alleviated the severity of clinical symptoms of colitis in mice, and significantly reduced the colonic tissue damage to protect the colonic tissue from the DSS-induced colitis. These results suggested that meta-substituted derivatives 1-3 and 1-6 were potential anti-inflammatory agents, which may lead to future pharmaceutical development.

Intratracheally Inhalable Nifedipine-Loaded Chitosan-PLGA Nanocomposites as a Promising Nanoplatform for Lung Targeting: Snowballed Protection via Regulation of TGF-β/β-Catenin Pathway in Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a serious ailment that may progress to lung remodeling and demolition, where the key participants in its incidence are fibroblasts responding to growth factors and cellular calcium swinging. Calcium channel blockers, like nifedipine (NFD), may represent auspicious agents in pulmonary fibrosis treatment. Unfortunately, NFD bears complicated pharmacodynamics and a diminished systemic bioavailability. Thus, the current study aimed to develop a novel, non-invasive nanoplatform for NFD for direct/effective pulmonary targeting via intratracheal instillation. A modified solvent emulsification–evaporation method was adopted for the fabrication of NFD-nanocomposites, integrating poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), chitosan (CTS), and polyvinyl alcohol, and optimized for different physiochemical properties according to the 3² full factorial design. Additionally, the aerodynamic behavior of the nanocomposites was scrutinized through cascade impaction. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic investigations were conducted in rats. Furthermore, the optimum formulation was tested in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats, wherein fibrotic and oxidative stress parameters were measured. The optimum nanocomposites disclosed a nanosized spherical morphology (226.46 nm), a high entrapment efficiency (61.81%) and a sustained release profile over 24 h (50.4%). As well, it displayed a boosted in vitro lung deposition performance with a mass median aerodynamic diameter of 1.12 µm. Pharmacokinetic studies manifested snowballed bioavailability of the optimal nanocomposites by 3.68- and 2.36-fold compared to both the oral and intratracheal suspensions, respectively. The intratracheal nanocomposites revealed a significant reduction in lung fibrotic and oxidative stress markers notably analogous to normal control besides repairing abnormality in TGF-β/β-catenin pathway. Our results conferred a compelling proof-of-principle that NFD-CTS-PLGA nanocomposites can function as a promising nanoparadigm for pulmonary fibrosis management.

Isolation of Skin Leukocytes Uncovers Phagocyte Inflammatory Responses During Induction and Resolution of Cutaneous Inflammation in Fish

Leukocytes offer a critical layer of protection to the host following skin infections. Delineating the kinetics of cutaneous leukocyte recruitment as well as their anti-microbial and regulatory profiles is challenging since it requires the isolation of adequate cell numbers and maintenance of their functional properties. Herein, we took advantage of a modified procedure to gain insights into the contributions of fish phagocytes through induction and resolution phases of acute cutaneous inflammation in goldfish (Carassius auratus). Our data shows early upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which was paired with neutrophil-dominant leukocyte migration of neutrophils from circulation to the injury site. Recruited neutrophils were associated with high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Following pathogen elimination, a reduction in ROS levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines expression preceded the resolution of inflammation. These results provide a better understanding of the cutaneous immune responses in fish. Moreover, the increased viability and functionality of isolated skin leukocytes opens the door to better understand a range of additional skin diseases.

The effect of Crocin on TFAM and PGC-1α expression and Catalase and Superoxide dismutase activities following cholestasis-induced neuroinflammation in the striatum of male Wistar rats

Bile secretion is a physiological function that is disrupted following Bile Duct Ligation (BDL) and induces cholestasis. Cholestasis is a bile flow reduction that induces apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and alters the expression of genes. Evidence shows the relationship between cholestasis and neuroinflammation. Cholestasis via attenuating mitochondrial biogenesis and anti-oxidant activity can induce neuroinflammation and apoptosis. Mitochondrial transcriptional factor A (TFAM) and Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) are involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, and TFAM, PGC-1α, Catalase (CAT), and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) have a role in upregulating antioxidant pathways. On the other hand, many studies have shown the neuroprotective effects of Crocin, the water-soluble carotenoid of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.). In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of Crocin on the level of TFAM, PGC-1α, CAT, and SOD following cholestasis-induced neuroinflammation in the rat's striatum. Cholestasis was induced by BDL surgery and administration of Crocin was intraperitoneal, at the dose of 30 mg/kg every day, 24 h after BDL surgery up to thirty days. The results showed that TFAM, PGC-1α, and SOD were decreased following cholestasis; while, CAT was increased. In addition, Crocin restored the effects of cholestasis on the level of TFAM, PGC-1α, and SOD. In conclusion, Crocin may have improvement effects on cholestasis-induced neuroinflammation in the rat's striatum.

A hypothesis for the pathogenesis of radiation-induced oral mucositis: when biological challenges exceed physiologic protective mechanisms. Implications for pharmacological prevention and treatment

Oral mucositis (OM) remains a significant unmet need for patients being treated with standard concomitant chemoradiation (CRT) regimens for head and neck cancers (HNC). OM's pathogenesis is complex and includes both direct and indirect damage pathways. In this paper, the field is reviewed with emphasis on the initiating and sustaining role of oxidative stress on OM's pathobiology. A hypothesis is presented which suggests that based on OM's clinical and biological trajectory, mucosal damage is largely the consequence of cumulative CRT-induced biological changes overwhelming physiologic self-protective mechanisms. Furthermore, an individual's ability to mount and maintain a protective response is dependent on interacting pathways which are primarily determined by a multiplex consisting of genomics, epigenomics, and microbiomics. Effective biologic or pharmacologic OM interventions are likely to supplement or stimulate existing physiologic damage-control mechanisms.

Adiponectin in psoriasis and its comorbidities: a review

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease characterized by abnormal T cell activation and excessive proliferation of keratinocytes. In addition to skin manifestations, psoriasis has been associated with multiple metabolic comorbidities, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. An increasing amount of evidence has highlighted the core role of adipokines in adipose tissue and the immune system. This review focus on the role of adiponectin in the pathophysiology of psoriasis and its comorbidities, highlighting the future research avenues.

Vascular and Cardiac Oxidative Stress and Inflammation as Targets for Cardioprotection

Cardiac and vascular diseases are often associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation, and both may contribute to the disease progression. However, successful applications of antioxidants in the clinical setting are very rare and specific anti-inflammatory therapeutics only emerged recently. Reasons for this rely on the great diversity of oxidative stress and inflammatory cells that can either act as cardioprotective or cause tissue damage in the heart. Recent large-scale clinical trials found that highly specific anti-inflammatory therapies using monoclonal antibodies against cytokines resulted in lower cardiovascular mortality in patients with pre-existing atherosclerotic disease. In addition, unspecific antiinflammatory medication and established cardiovascular drugs with pleiotropic immunomodulatory properties such as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or statins have proven beneficial cardiovascular effects. Normalization of oxidative stress seems to be a common feature of these therapies, which can be explained by a close interaction/crosstalk of the cellular redox state and inflammatory processes. In this review, we give an overview of cardiac reactive oxygen species (ROS) sources and processes of cardiac inflammation as well as the connection of ROS and inflammation in ischemic cardiomyopathy in order to shed light on possible cardioprotective interventions.

Endowing Orthopedic Implants' Antibacterial, Antioxidation, and Osteogenesis Properties Through a Composite Coating of Nano-Hydroxyapatite, Tannic Acid, and Lysozyme

There is a substantial global market for orthopedic implants, but these implants still face the problem of a high failure rate in the short and long term after implantation due to the complex physiological conditions in the body. The use of multifunctional coatings on orthopedic implants has been proposed as an effective way to overcome a range of difficulties. Here, a multifunctional (TA@HA/Lys)_n coating composed of tannic acid (TA), hydroxyapatite (HA), and lysozyme (Lys) was fabricated in a layer-by-layer (LBL) manner, where TA deposited onto HA firmly stuck Lys and HA together. The deposition of TA onto HA, the growth of (TA@HA/Lys)_n, and multiple related biofunctionalities were thoroughly investigated. Our data demonstrated that such a hybrid coating displayed antibacterial and antioxidant effects, and also facilitated the rapid attachment of cells [both mouse embryo osteoblast precursor cells (MC3T3-E1) and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs)] in the early stage and their proliferation over a long period. This accelerated osteogenesis in vitro and promoted bone formation in vivo. We believe that our findings and the developed strategy here could pave the way for multifunctional coatings not only on orthopedic implants, but also for additional applications in catalysts, sensors, tissue engineering, etc.

NO, way to go: critical amino acids to replenish nitric oxide production in treating mucositis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There is still an unmet need for preventive and treatment strategies for chemotherapy-induced and radiotherapy-induced mucositis and its associated systemic inflammatory response (SIR) in cancer patients. Because of citrulline depletion due to cytotoxic therapy, nitric oxide (NO) production can be reduced, limiting its effect in many physiological processes. Restoring NO production could relieve mucositis severity by supporting host damage control mechanisms. Amino acids glutamine, arginine and citrulline are involved in NO production. This review including recent literature of preclinical and clinical studies will discuss the potential benefits of glutamine, arginine and citrulline on mucositis development with focus on NO production.

RECENT FINDINGS

Mucositis severity is more defined by host response to DNA damage than by DMA damage itself. Citrulline depletion because of afunctional enterocytes could be responsible for NO depletion during cytotoxic therapy. Restoring NO production during cytotoxic therapy could have a beneficial effect on mucositis development. Citrulline seems a more promising NO donor than glutamine or arginine during cytotoxic therapy, although clinical studies in mucositis patients are currently lacking.

SUMMARY

Glutamine, arginine and citrulline show in-vitro beneficial effects on inflammatory processes involved in mucositis. Translation to the clinic is difficult as demonstrated with use of glutamine and arginine. Citrulline, being the most potent NO donor with excellent oral bio-availability, is very promising as treatment choice for mucositis and its use deserves to be investigated in clinical trials with mucositis patients.

Moringa Oleifera: A Review of Its Occurrence, Pharmacological Importance and Oxidative Stress

Oxidative/nitrosative stress can be caused by excessive production of ROS and RNS with metabolic reactions that change the balance in favor of oxidants in cases where oxidants increase and antioxidants decrease in organisms using oxygen. ROS and RNS react with several biological macromolecules in cells, such as carbohydrates, nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins, and alter their functions. Some natural antioxidants are constantly being researched for their benefits in terms of human health, which can strengthen the body's antioxidant defense system and have the potential to scavenger free radicals. It is a well-known and practical strategy to prevent and / or treat diseases due to the consumption of more suitable fruits, herbs, spices and vegetables, and the presence of bioactive antioxidant compounds. Moringa oleifera, a new and important one of these plants, has a wide range of bioactive compounds that can be obtained in different herbal structures such as leaves, seeds, stems and shells. It consists of bioactive molecules, such as phenolic compounds, fats, fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins, functional peptides, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids as well as a number of glycosides and has great potential for use in various formulations in various health and food products. This review highlights the formation of MO, its importance in natural medicine, its pharmacological value, and its role as a possible anti-proliferative agent against cancer and its use in some diseases.