Garlic ( Allium sativum ) as an antidote or a protective agent against natural or chemical toxicities: A comprehensive update review

Diallyl trisulfide alleviates dextran sulphate sodium-induced colitis in mice by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via ROS/Trx-1 pathway

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a sulphur-containing compound isolated from the medicinal food plant garlic, has been previously reported to attenuate experimental colitis induced by either dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) or 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) in mice; however, the underlying mechanism remains to be identified. In this study, we deciphered the key mechanism by which DATS alleviates ulcerative colitis (UC). We showed that oral administration of DATS for 10 consecutive days greatly restrained the infiltration of macrophages and the pathological changes in colonic tissues of mice with DSS-induced colitis. DATS treatment notably dampened the content of IL-1β and IL-18 and suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colon. Mechanistically, DATS effectively diminished the generation of ROS in macrophages. The suppressive effect of DATS on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and downregulation of IL-18 and IL-1β levels was blunted by xanthine oxidase. Further studies revealed that DATS inhibited NF-κB pathway activation by suppressing the expression of Trx-1, thereby inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Trx-1 overexpression and interference in macrophages promoted and diminished NLRP3 inflammasome activation, respectively. In summary, garlic and its main active ingredient DATS have potentials to prevent and treat UC, and DATS functions by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Trx-1/ROS pathway.

Protective effects of Panax ginseng as a medical food against chemical toxic agents: molecular and cellular mechanisms

Humans are exposed to different types of toxic agents, which may directly induce organ malfunction or indirectly alter gene expression, leading to carcinogenic and teratogenic effects, and eventually death. Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is the most valuable of all medicinal herbs. Nevertheless, specific data on the antidotal mechanisms of this golden herb are currently unavailable. Based on the findings of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, this review focused on the probable protective mechanisms of ginseng and its major components, such as protopanaxadiols, protopanaxatriols, and pentacyclic ginsenosides against various chemical toxic agents. Relevant articles from 2000 to 2023 were gathered from PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This literature review shows that P. ginseng and its main components have protective and antidotal effects against the deteriorative effects of pesticides, pharmaceutical agents, including acetaminophen, doxorubicin, isoproterenol, cyclosporine A, tacrolimus, and gentamicin, ethanol, and some chemical agents. These improvements occur through multi-functional mechanisms. They exhibit antioxidant activity, induce anti-inflammatory action, and block intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. However, relevant clinical trials are necessary to validate the mentioned effects and translate the knowledge from basic science to human benefit, fulfilling the fundamental goal of all toxicologists.

Ultralong luminescence lifetime imaging of edible plant tissue for humidity sensing in food packaging by a smartphone

The safety of luminescence sensors and probes used in food packaging should be seriously considered, while most luminescence sensors were artificially synthesized with unclear toxicity, and cannot be directly used as indicators that were in contact with food. To overcome this problem, a humidity indicator based on an edible plant tissue was developed without any chemical processing. We found that garlic bulbs could emit significant persistent luminescence after drying at room temperature. The luminescence lifetime decreases from hundreds of milliseconds to tens of milliseconds as humidity increases. The long-lived luminescence could easily be detected through smartphones without any sophisticated instruments. The edible garlic is expected to be used as a humidity indicator in food packaging without worrying about food safety. Furthermore, the interference of scattered light and short-lived fluorescence from foods and packages can be eliminated in time-resolved luminescence imaging, greatly increasing the signal-to-noise ratio.

Attenuation of inflammation, oxidative stress and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling and upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling mediate the protective effect of diallyl disulfide against cadmium nephrotoxicity

Heavy metals are toxic environmental pollutants with serious health effects on humans and animals. Cadmium (Cd) is known for its serious nephrotoxic effect and its toxicity involves oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation. Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a main constituent of garlic, exhibites cytoprotective and antioxidant activities. This study investigated the effect of DADS on OS, inflammation, and fibrosis induced by Cd in rat kidney, pointing to the involvement of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad3 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Rats received DADS for 14 days and Cd on day 7 and blood and kidney samples were collected. Cd elevated serum creatinine, urea and uric acid, provoked kidney histopathological alterations and collagen deposition, increased kidney malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and decreased glutathione (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes. Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) p65, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β, and CD68 were upregulated in Cd-administered rat kidney. DADS prevented kidney injury, mitigated OS, suppressed NF-κB, CD68 and pro-inflammatory mediators, and boosted antioxidants. DADS downregulated TGF-β1, Smad3 phosphorylation and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1), and increased Nrf2, HO-1, cytoglobin, and PPARγ. In conclusion, DADS protects the kidney against Cd toxicity by attenuating OS, inflammation, and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling, and enhancement of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling, antioxidants, and PPARγ.

Investigating the protective properties of Panax ginseng and its constituents against biotoxins and metal toxicity: a mechanistic review

Natural toxins are toxic substances produced by living microorganisms and cause harmful effects to other creatures, but not the organisms themselves. Based on the sources, they are classified into fungal, microbial, herbal, algae, and animal biotoxins. Metals, the oldest toxicants, are not created or destroyed by human industry as elements, just concentrated in the biosphere. An antidote can counteract the toxic effects of a drug or toxin or mitigate the adverse effects of a harmful substance. The potential antidote effects of Panax ginseng in organ toxicity have been proved by many scientific research projects. Herein, we are going to gather a comprehensive mechanistic review of the antidotal effects of ginseng and its main constituents against natural toxins and metal toxicity. In this regard, a literate search has been done in PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, and Scopus from 2000 until 2024. The gathered data showed the protective impacts of this golden plant and its secondary metabolites against aflatoxin, deoxynivalenol, three-nitro propionic acid, ochratoxin A, lipopolysaccharide, nicotine, aconite, domoic acid, α-synuclein, amyloid β, and glutamate as well as aluminum, cadmium, chrome, copper, iron, and lead. These antidotal effects occur by multi-functional mechanisms. It may be attributed to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. Future research directions on the antidotal effects of ginseng against natural toxins and metal toxicity involve broadening the scope of studies to include a wider range of toxins and metals, exploring synergistic interactions with other natural compounds, and conducting more human clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of ginseng-based treatments.

Green synthesis of zinc oxide/Allium sativum nano-composite and its efficacy against murine cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is a global health problem threats life of immunocompromised patients. Allium sativum (A. sativum) is one of the therapeutic options for cryptosporidiosis. This study develops green synthesized ZnO-NPs based on A. sativum extract, and assesses its therapeutic application in treating experimental cryptosporidiosis in immunosuppressed mice. FTIR, scanning electron microscopy, and zeta analyzer were used for characterization of bio ZnO-NPs. The morphology of prepared materials appeared as sponge with many pores on the whole surface that allows the feasibility of bio ZnO-NPs for different biological activities. Its structural analysis was highly stabilized with negative charge surface which indicated for well distribution into the parasite matrix. Twenty-five immunosuppressed Cryptosporidium parvum infected mice, classified into 5 groups were sacrificed at 21th day after infection with evaluation of parasitological, histopathological, oxidative, and proinflammatory biomarkers. Treated mice groups with 50 and 100 mg/kg of AS/ZnO-NPs showed a highly significant decline (79.9% and 83.23%, respectively) in the total number of expelled oocysts. Both doses revealed actual amelioration of the intestinal, hepatic, and pulmonary histopathological lesions. They also significantly produced an increase in GSH values and improved the changes in NO and MDA levels, and showed high anti-inflammatory properties. This study is the first to report green synthesis of ZnO/A. sativum nano-composite as an effective therapy in treating cryptosporidiosis which gave better results than using A. sativum alone. It provides an economical and environment-friendly approach towards novel delivery synthesis for antiparasitic applications. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Green synthesis of ZnO-NPs was developed using A. sativum extract. The morphology of prepared ZnO-NPs appeared as sponge with many pores on SEM The study evaluates its therapeutic efficacy against murine cryptosporidiosis The green synthesized ZnO-NPs significantly reduced percent of oocyst shedding, improved the pathological changes, and showed high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials.

Allium sativum Essential Oil Supplementation Reverses the Hepatic Inflammation, Genotoxicity and Apoptotic Effects in Swiss Albino Mice Intoxicated with the Lead Nitrate

Prolonged lead (Pb) exposure impairs human health due to its interference with physiological and biochemical processes. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate natural therapeutics to alleviate Pb-induced intoxication. In the current investigation, essential oil extracted from the fresh bulbs of Allium sativum was considered as a natural remedy. Initially, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of A. sativum essential oil (ASEO) were explored. The results reported that ASEO exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Additionally, an in vivo study was conducted to elucidate its preventive role against Lead-nitrate (LN)-induced hepatic damage in Swiss albino mice. The experimental mice were allocated into six groups: Control, LN-intoxicated group (50 mg/kg), LN + ASEO (50 mg/kg), LN + ASEO (80 mg/kg), LN + Silymarin (25 mg/kg), and LN + vehicle oil control group. The entire duration of the study was of 30 days. From the results, it was determined that LN exposure elevated the Pb content in hepatic tissues which subsequently increased the serum biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines (NF-kB, TNF-α, IL-6) as well as apoptotic factors (caspase-3, BAX), all of which contribute to DNA damage. Meanwhile, it reduced anti-inflammatory (IFN-γ and IL-10) and anti-apoptotic factors (Bcl-2). Furthermore, Pb accumulation in hepatic tissues changed the histological architecture, which was linked to necrosis, central vein dilation, inflammatory cell infiltration and Kupffer cell activation. In contrast to this, ASEO administration decreased the Pb content, which in turn reduced the level of serum biomarkers, inflammatory and apoptotic factors. At the same time, it increased the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic factors, thereby reduced DNA damage and restored the hepatic histology. In conclusion, exhaustive research is of the utmost demand to elucidate the precise defense mechanisms of ASEO against LN-induced hepatotoxicity.

Antimicrobial effect of garlic against foodborne pathogens in ground mutton

The antimicrobial effect of fresh garlic (20, 30, and 50 g/kg) and the equivalent concentrations of garlic oil (80, 120, and 200 mg/kg) was investigated in ground mutton during storage at 4 °C. By day 6 and thereafter, mutton meatballs treated with 50 g/kg of fresh garlic and 200 mg/kg garlic oil exhibited a significant decline in psychrotrophic and Pseudomonas counts in comparison with control. Fresh garlic added at a concentration of 50 g/kg exhibited the highest antimicrobial effect, followed by garlic oil at 200 mg/kg, fresh garlic at 30 g/kg, and garlic oil at 120 mg/kg. By the 15th day of storage, the fresh garlic added at concentrations of 50 and 30 g/kg and garlic oil added at concentrations of 120, and 200 mg/kg inactivated the populations of foodborne pathogens artificially inoculated into ground mutton and exhibited significant (P < 0.01) lower counts in Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus by more than 3 logs CFU/g, in comparison to control. Therefore, fresh garlic and garlic oil can be used as natural antimicrobial food additives to extend the shelf life and inactivate the populations of foodborne pathogens in meat products.

Anticoccidial effects of tannin-based herbal formulation (Artemisia annua, Quercus infectoria, and Allium sativum) against coccidiosis in broilers

Background

Avian coccidiosis is considered among the infectious disease of high cost in the poultry industry. Herbal extracts are safe and reliable substitute anticoccidial drugs for chemical feed additives as they do not sequel to drug resistance and tissue remnants.

Objective

The current study aimed to assess the anticoccidial effect of an herbal complex of 3 plants (Artemisia annua, Quercus infectoria, and Allium sativum) in broiler chickens compared to toltrazuril anticoccidial.

Methods

This experiment used one hundred twenty broiler chickens and divided them into four equally numbered groups. All the groups, except group (D), were experimentally infected with mixed Eimeria spp. (E. tenella, E. maxima, E. necatrix and E. brunetti) on day 14. Group (A) was treated with a herbal mixture, containing 75% Quercus infectoria with a minimum of 30% total tannin, 16% Artemisia annua with a minimum of 0.02% artemisinin, and 9% Allium sativum with a minimum of 0.4% total phenol contents. Group (B) was treated with toltrazuril. Group (C) did not have any treatment. Group (D) was healthy all the experiment period as a negative control group. During a 42-day breeding period, the study examined clinical signs, weight gains, feed conversion ratio, lesions scoring, casualties, and the number of oocysts in different bird groups.

Results

Group (D) showed the most significant weight gain, indicating the economic damage caused by coccidiosis. The best feed conversion ratio was observed in the unchallenged group, and coccidiosis negatively affected it in other groups. Clinical signs of dysentery, diarrhea, and lethargy were seen post-challenge but improved with treatment. Group (D) showed no losses; others had casualties and coccidiosis lesions. Lesion scores were lowest in the group (D), and the herbal mixture improved performance. The herbal mixture and toltrazuril reduced oocyst counts in feces earlier than the untreated group.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the anticoccidial activity of the mentioned herbal complex recommends its use as an alternative anticoccidial agent to chemotherapeutic drugs for controlling coccidiosis.

Integrated Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Reveal the Mechanism of Alliin in Improving Hyperlipidemia

This research aims to assess the anti-hyperlipidemia effects of alliin in vivo and its potential mechanisms through transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis. A hyperlipidemia mode was established in C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet, and the related physiological parameters of the animals were recorded. Serum TC and MDA in livers significantly decreased by 12.34% and 29.59%, respectively, and SOD and CAT in livers significantly increased by 40.64% and 39.05%, respectively, after high doses of alliin interventions. In total, 148 significantly different genes, particularly Cel, Sqle, Myc, and Ugt1a2, were revealed for their potential roles in HFD-induced alliin, mainly through steroid biosynthesis, triglyceride metabolism, drug metabolism-cytochrome P450, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, according to transcriptomics analysis. Metabolomics results revealed 18 significantly different metabolites between the alliin group and HFD group, which were classified as carboxylic acids, such as N-undecanoylglycine, adipic acid, D-pantothenic acid, cyprodenate, and pivagabine. We found pantothenic acid played a vital role and was effective through pantothenic acid and CoA biosynthesis metabolism. The "steroid biosynthesis pathway" was identified as the most significant metabolic pathway by integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis. This work offered a theoretical framework for the mechanism of alliin lipid lowering in the future. The development and utilization of alliin will be a viable strategy to improve the health status of people with hyperlipidemia, suggesting prospective market opportunities.

Garlic essential oil supplementation modulates colonic microbiota compositions and regulates immune response in weaned piglets

The objective of this study was to investigate the colonic microbiome compositions and immune response and reveal their correlations in weaned piglets fed with garlic essential oil (GEO). Twelve 21-day-old crossbred piglets with the same parity and similar weight (BW = 7.07 ± 0.37 Kg) were randomly divided into control and experimental groups based on BW and sex, which fed either a basal diet (CON group), or a basal diet supplemented with 1.5 g/kg GEO (GEO group). UHPLC-QE-MS showed the main component of GEO were belonged to carbohydrates, organic acid, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids and terpenoids. GEO decreased serum IL-1β, IL-8 content and the down-regulated mRNA expression of IFN-γ, TLR2 in jejunal mucosa but increased serum IgG, IL-4 content and up-regulated the mRNA expression of IL-4, IL-1β, TNF-α in ileal mucosa. What's more, the metagenomic analysis demonstrated that GEO increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Euryarchaeota and Spirochaetes, while decreased the abundance of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria at Phylum level and Selenomonas_boris, Selenomonadaceae_bacterium_DSM_108025, Clostridiales_bacterium and Phascolarctobacterium_succinatutens at species level. Notably, the main function pathway of virulence factor (VFDB) enriched in GEO group were Fibronection-binding protein, Zn++ metallophrotease and Capsular polysaccharide, while the main function pathway of VFDB enriched in CON group were heme biosynthesis, Lap and FeoAB. Spearman correlation analysis indicated the Spirochaetes had a positive association with IL-6 and IL-4. Acinobacteria was positively correlated with IL-1β, while negative with the IL-6; In addition, Euryarchaeota had a positive correlation with IL-4, but a negative correlation with IL-1β; Tenericutes was negative with IL-8; Phascolarcolarctobacterium_succinatutens and was negative with IL-6; Ruminococcaceae_bacterium was negative with TNF-α. While Selenomonadaceae_bacterium_DSM_108025 had a positive correlation with IL-8. In conclusion, our results uncovered that immune regulation effects of GEO may be associated with the microbiome compositions in response to GEO.

Antioxidants Amelioration Is Insufficient to Prevent Acrylamide and Alpha-Solanine Synergistic Toxicity in BEAS-2B Cells

Cells produce free radicals and antioxidants when exposed to toxic compounds during cellular metabolism. However, free radicals are deleterious to lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Antioxidants neutralize and eliminate free radicals from cells, preventing cell damage. Therefore, the study aims to determine whether the antioxidants butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) will ameliorate the maximum dose of acrylamide and alpha (α)-solanine synergistic toxic effects in exposed BEAS-2B cells. These toxic compounds are consumed worldwide by eating potato products. BEAS-2B cells were simultaneously treated with BHA 10 μM and BHT 20 μM and incubated in a 5% CO2 humidified incubator for 24 h, followed by individual or combined treatment with acrylamide (3.5 mM) and α-solanine (44 mM) for 48 h, including the controls. Cell morphology, DNA, RNA, and protein were analyzed. The antioxidants did not prevent acrylamide and α-solanine synergistic effects in exposed BEAS-2B cells. However, cell morphology was altered; polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed reduced RNA constituents but not DNA. In addition, the toxic compounds synergistically inhibited AKT/PKB expression and its downstream genes. The study showed BHA and BHT are not protective against the synergetic toxic effects of acrylamide and α-solanine in exposed BEAS-2B cells.

Medicinal and therapeutic properties of garlic, garlic essential oil, and garlic-based snack food: An updated review

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an edible tuber belonging to the family Liliaceae. It has been used since ancient times as a spice to enhance the sensory characteristics of food and as a household remedy for the treatment of a variety of ailments. Garlic has been studied for its medicinal and therapeutic effects in the treatment of various human diseases for a long time. Health benefits associated with the consumption of garlic are attributed to the various sulfur compounds present in it such as allicin, ajoene, vinyl-dithiin, and other volatile organosulfur compounds which are all metabolized from alliin. Several researches in the literature have shown evidence that garlic exhibits antioxidant, antiviral, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antihypertensive, anti-anemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anticarcinogenic, antiaggregant, and immunomodulatory properties. The present review identifies and discusses the various health benefits associated with the consumption of garlic, its essential oil, and bioactive constituents, along with exploring the various snack-food products developed by incorporating garlic.

Phytochemical profiling and allelopathic effect of garlic essential oil on barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli L.)

In agriculture, barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli L.) is one of the most harmful weeds in rice fields now. In order to identify active ingredients which had inhibiting effect on barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli L.), we evaluated several possible natural plant essential oils. Essential oils from twelve plant species showed inhibitory activity against barnyard grass seedlings and root length. The garlic essential oil (GEO) had the most significant allelopathic effect (EC50 = 0.0126 g mL-1). Additionally, the enzyme activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased during the first 8 hours of treatment at a concentration of 0.1 g mL-1 and then declined. The activities of CAT, SOD and POD increased by 121%, 137% and 110% (0-8h, compared to control), and decreased (8-72h, compared to the maximum value) by 100%, 185% and 183%, respectively. The total chlorophyll content of barnyard grass seedlings decreased by 51% (0-72h) continuously with the same dosage treatment. Twenty constituents of GEO were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the herbicidal activity of two main components (diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide) was evaluated. Results showed that both components had herbicidal activity against barnyard grass. GEO had a strong inhibitory effect (~88.34% inhibition) on barnyard grass growth, but safety studies on rice showed it did not have much inhibitory effect on rice seed germination. Allelopathy of GEO provide ideas for the development of new plant-derived herbicides.

Protective effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) and its main components against natural and chemical toxic agents: A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Different chemical toxicants or natural toxins can damage human health through various routes such as air, water, fruits, foods, and vegetables.

PURPOSE

Herbal medicines may be safe and selective for the prevention of toxic agents due to their active ingredients and various pharmacological properties. According to the beneficial properties of pomegranate, this paper summarized the protective effects of this plant against toxic substances.

STUDY DESIGN

In this review, we focused on the findings of in vivo and in vitro studies of the protective effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) and its active components including ellagic acid and punicalagin, against natural and chemical toxic agents.

METHODS

We collected articles from the following databases or search engines such as Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, Pubmed and Scopus without a time limit until the end of September 2022.

RESULTS

P. granatum and its constituents have shown protective effects against natural toxins such as aflatoxins, and endotoxins as well as chemical toxicants for instance arsenic, diazinon, and carbon tetrachloride. The protective effects of these compounds are related to different mechanisms such as the prevention of oxidative stress, and reduction of inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2) and nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) as well as the modulation of apoptosis, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways and improvement of liver or cardiac function via regulation of enzymes.

CONCLUSION

In this review, different in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that P. granatum and its active constituents have protective effects against natural and chemical toxic agents via different mechanisms. There are no clinical trials on the protective effects of P. granatum against toxic agents.

Antioxidants (selenium and garlic) alleviated the adverse effects of tramadol on the reproductive system and oxidative stress markers in male rabbits

Tramadol has been used by millions of patients as an analgesic drug to relief the severe pain caused by cancers and other diseases. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effects of antioxidants (garlic and selenium) against the toxic effects of tramadol on semen characteristics, steroid hormones, the protein expressions of different cytochrome P450 isozymes [CYP 21A2, CYP 19, and 11A1], and on antioxidant enzyme activities in testes of rabbits. Western immunoblotting, spectrophotometric, and histological methods were used in this study. Tramadol (1.5 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally to male rabbits for up to three months (three times/week), and after pretreatment of rabbits with garlic (800 mg/kg) and/or selenium (1 mg/kg body weight) by 2 h. The present study showed that motilities, semen volumes, morphologies, sperm counts, testosterone, and estrogen levels were significantly decreased after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of tramadol treatment. In addition, the protein expressions of CYP 21A2, CYP 19, and 11A1 were down-regulated in the testes of the tramadol-treated rabbits. On the other hand, pretreatment of rabbits with garlic, selenium, and/or garlic-selenium for 2 h before administration of tramadol restored the downregulated CYP 21A2 and 11A1 to their normal levels after 12 weeks of tramadol treatment. Activities of antioxidant enzymes including glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and levels of glutathione were inhibited in the testes of tramadol-treated rabbits. On the other hand, free radical levels were significantly increased in the testes of tramadol-treated rabbits for 12 weeks. Interestingly, such changes in the activities of antioxidant enzymes as well as free radical levels caused by tramadol were restored to their normal levels in the rabbits pretreated with either selenium, garlic, and/or their combination. Histopathological investigations showed that tramadol caused substantial vacuolization with the presence of damaged immature spermatozoid in the testes. However, selenium and garlic treatments showed an increase in healthy sperm production with normal mitotic and meiotic divisions. The present study illustrated for the first time the mechanisms of low steroid hormone levels in the testes of tramadol-treated rabbits which could be due to the downregulation of CYPs proteins, induction of oxidative stress, and inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities. In addition, the present data showed that such toxic effects of tramadol were attenuated and restored to their normal levels after pretreatment of rabbits with garlic, selenium, and/or their combination. This finding may pave the way for a new approach to reducing the toxicity of tramadol.

Could allicin alleviate trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity in a rat model through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperlipidemic properties?

AIMS

Although trastuzumab (TZB)-induced cardiotoxicity is well documented and allicin (one of the main active garlic ingredients) has ameliorating effects against numerous causes of toxicities; however, the influence of allicin on TZB-induced cardiotoxicity has not been investigated yet. Therefore, the current work explored the potential cardioprotective structural, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of allicin against TZB-induced cardiotoxicity in a rat's model.

METHODS

Forty rats were divided into four equal groups and treated for five weeks. The control group (G1) received PBS, the allicin group (G2) received allicin (9 mg/kg/day), the TZB group (G3) received TZB (6 mg/kg/week), and the allicin+TZB group (G4) received 9 mg of allicin/kg/day +6 mg of TZB/kg/week. Heart specimens and blood samples were processed for histopathological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and molecular investigations to determine the extent of cardiac injury in all groups.

KEY FINDINGS

The myocardium of G3 revealed significant increases in the numbers of inflammatory and apoptotic cells and the area percentage of collagen fibers and TNF-α immunoexpression compared with G1 and G2. Besides, qRT-PCR analysis exhibited significant reductions of SOD3, GPX1, and CAT expressions with significant increases in TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, cTnI, cTnT, and LDH expressions. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis demonstrated a significant elevation in the apoptotic and ROS levels. In contrast, allicin+TZB cotherapy in G4 ameliorated all previous changes compared with G3.

SIGNIFICANCE

The current study proves that allicin could be used as a novel supplementary cardioprotective therapy to avoid TZB-induced cardiotoxicity via its anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, and antiapoptotic properties.

A Contemporary Exploration of Traditional Indian Snake Envenomation Therapies

Snakebite being a quick progressing serious situation needs immediate and aggressive therapy. Snake venom antiserum is the only approved and effective treatment available, but for selected snake species only. The requirement of trained staff for administration and serum reactions make the therapy complicated. In tropical countries where snakebite incidence is high and healthcare facilities are limited, mortality and morbidities associated with snake envenomation are proportionately high. Traditional compilations of medical practitioners' personal journals have wealth of plant-based snake venom antidotes. Relatively, very few plants or their extractives have been scientifically investigated for neutralization of snake venom or its components. None of these investigations presents enough evidence to initiate clinical testing of the agents. This review focuses on curating Indian traditional snake envenomation therapies, identifying plants involved and finding relevant evidence across modern literature to neutralize snake venom components. Traditional formulations, their method of preparation and dosing have been discussed along with the investigational approach in modern research and their possible outcomes. A safe and easily administrable small molecule of plant origin that would protect or limit the spread of venom and provide valuable time for the victim to reach the healthcare centre would be a great lifesaver.

Scutellaria baicalensis and its constituents baicalin and baicalein as antidotes or protective agents against chemical toxicities: a comprehensive review

Scutellaria baicalensis (SB), also known as the Chinese skullcap, has a long history of being used in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions ranging from microbial infections to metabolic syndrome and malignancies. Numerous studies have reported that treatment with total SB extract or two main flavonoids found in its root and leaves, baicalin (BA) and baicalein (BE), can prevent or alleviate the detrimental toxic effects of exposure to various chemical compounds. It has been shown that BA and BE are generally behind the protective effects of SB against toxicants. This paper aimed to review the protective and therapeutic effects of SB and its main components BA and BE against chemical compounds that can cause intoxication after acute or chronic exposure and seriously affect different vital organs including the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. In this review paper, we had a look into a total of 221 in vitro and in vivo studies from 1995 to 2021 from the scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science which reported protective or therapeutic effects of BA, BE, or SB against drugs and chemicals that one might be exposed to on a professional or accidental basis and compounds that are primarily used to simulate disease models. In conclusion, the protective effects of SB and its flavonoids can be mainly attributed to increase in antioxidants enzymes, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, reduction of inflammatory cytokines, and suppression of apoptosis pathway.

Alliin alleviates LPS-induced pyroptosis via promoting mitophagy in THP-1 macrophages and mice

Pyroptosis is a new type of programmed cell death associated with inflammation. Excessive pyroptosis can cause body damage. Alliin is an organosulfur compound extracted from garlic, bearing anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we revealed that alliin alleviated LPS-induced macrophage pyroptosis by detecting PI staining, IL-1β and IL-18 release in vitro and in vivo. In the study of mechanism, we found that alliin might reduce the activation of NLRP3 inflammosome by decreasing intracellular ROS generation. Subsequently, we detected the effect of alliin on mitophagy which degraded damaged mitochondria. The results showed that alliin promoted PINK 1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy. After adding the mitophagy inhibitor CsA, the alleviating effect of alliin on mitochondrial damage and mitochondrial ROS were reversed and the relieving effect of alliin on LPS-induced pyroptosis was inhibited. These results suggested that alliin might reduce intracellular ROS production by promoting mitophagy, thus alleviating LPS-induced macrophages pyroptosis. Our study provides a new perspective and theoretical basis for alliin to alleviate pyroptosis which could further induce body damage.

Drug Delivery of Natural Products Through Nanocarriers for Effective Breast Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Literature

Despite recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer (BC), it remains a global health issue affecting millions of women annually. Poor prognosis in BC patients is often linked to drug resistance as well as the lack of effective therapeutic options for metastatic and triple-negative BC. In response to these unmet needs, extensive research efforts have been devoted to exploring the anti-BC potentials of natural products owing to their multi-target mechanisms of action and good safety profiles. Various medicinal plant extracts/essential oils and natural bioactive compounds have demonstrated anti-cancer activities in preclinical BC models. Despite the promising preclinical results, however, the clinical translation of natural products has often been hindered by their poor stability, aqueous solubility and bioavailability. There have been attempts to overcome these limitations, particularly via the use of nano-based drug delivery systems (NDDSs). This review highlights the tumour targeting mechanisms of NDDSs, the advantages and disadvantages of the major classes of NDDSs and their current clinical status in BC treatment. Besides, it also discusses the proposed anti-BC mechanisms and nanoformulations of nine medicinal plants' extracts/essential oils and nine natural bioactive compounds; selected via the screening of various scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar, based on the following keywords: "Natural Product AND Nanoparticle AND Breast Cancer". Overall, these nanoformulations exhibit improved anti-cancer efficacy against preclinical BC models, with some demonstrating biocompatibility with normal cell lines and mouse models. Further clinical studies are, however, warranted to ascertain their efficacy and biocompatibility in humans.

Efficacy and expenses of succimer vs. d-penicillamine plus garlic in the treatment of lead poisoning: a retrospective cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

Lead Poisoning is a major health problem in Iran. We aimed to compare efficacy of a standard regimen (Succimer) with that of a low-priced combination of D-penicillamine and Garlic in outpatients with lead poisoning.

METHODS

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, year-long clinical files of outpatients with lead poisoning in two referral toxicology clinics in Mashhad, Iran were reviewed. A total of 79 patients (all men), received either Succimer or a combination of D-penicillamen plus garlic (DPN + Gar), for 19 and 30 days, respectively. Clinical and laboratory data, including blood lead level (BLL), were analyzed and treatment expanses were compared between the two regimens.

RESULTS

Of 79 male patients, 42 were treated by DPN + Gar and 37 received Succimer. Mean BLL of DPN + Gar group before treatment (965.73 ± 62.54 µg/L) was higher than that of the Succimer group (827.59 ± 24.41) (p < 0.001). After treatment, BLL in both groups significantly reduced to 365.52 ± 27.61 µg/L and 337.44 ± 26.34 µg/L, respectively (p < 0.001). The price of a 19-day treatment with Succimer was approximately 28.6 times higher than a one-month course of treatment with garlic plus DPN. None of the treatments caused serious side effects in the patients.

CONCLUSION

Combination therapy with DPN + Gar is as effective as Succimer in Pb poisoning, while treatment with Succimer is significantly more expensive.

Biological Functions of Diallyl Disulfide, a Garlic-Derived Natural Organic Sulfur Compound

Garlic is widely accepted as a functional food and an excellent source of pharmacologically active ingredients. Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a major bioactive component of garlic, has several beneficial biological functions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and anticancer activities. This review systematically evaluated the biological functions of DADS and discussed the underlying molecular mechanisms of these functions. We hope that this review provides guidance and insight into the current literature and enables future research and the development of DADS for intervention and treatment of multiple diseases.

Insights into decontamination of soils by phytoremediation: A detailed account on heavy metal toxicity and mitigation strategies

In the current era of rapid industrialization, the foremost challenge is the management of industrial wastes. Activities such as mining and industrialization spill over a large quantity of toxic waste that pollutes soil, water, and air. This poses a major environmental and health challenge. The toxic heavy metals present in the soil and water are entering the food chain, which in turn causes severe health hazards. Environmental clean-up and reclamation of heavy metal contaminated soil and water are very important, and it necessitates efforts of environmentalists, industrialists, scientists, and policymakers. Phytoremediation is a plant-based approach to remediate heavy metal/organic pollutant contaminated soil and water in an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and permanent way. This review covers the effect of heavy metal toxicity on plant growth and physiological process, the concept of heavy metal accumulation, detoxification, and the mechanisms of tolerance in plants. Based on plants' ability to uptake heavy metals and metabolize them within tissues, phytoremediation techniques have been classified into six types: phytoextraction, phytoimmobilization, phytovolatilization, phytodegradation, rhizofiltration, and rhizodegradation. The development of research in this area led to the identification of metal hyper-accumulators, which could be utilized for reclamation of contaminated soil through phytomining. Concurrently, breeding and biotechnological approaches can enhance the remediation efficiency. Phytoremediation technology, combined with other reclamation technologies/practices, can provide clean soil and water to the ecosystem.

Allicin ameliorates renal ischemia/reperfusion injury via inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation in rats

Allicin has been reported to play a biological role in human pathophysiological processes via interaction with numerous signaling pathways and gene expression alteration. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the protective effects of allicin against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (RIRI) in rats. In the present study, the RIRI model with 45-min ischemia and 22-h reperfusion in rats was generated and allicin was used as the intervention. Changes in renal tissue pathomorphology, renal function, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis were evaluated in the RIRI model in rats. Compared with those in the RIRI group, renal function, renal pathological injury, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties were markedly improved in the RIRI+allicin group. Thus, our research suggested that allicin exerted its protective effect against ischemia/reperfusion-induced renal injury by regulating apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammatory response in rats.

Dietary garlic and chitosan enhanced the antioxidant capacity, immunity, and modulated the transcription of HSP70 and Cytokine genes in Zearalenone-intoxicated European seabass

The present study was performed to evaluate the toxic effects of feed-born zearalenone (ZEN) on antioxidative status, immunity, transcriptomic responses of European seabass, and the modulating roles of dietary garlic and/or chitosan powders. Fish (30.7 ± 0.6 g) were randomly arranged in five experimental groups (in triplicates), whereas the first group was fed on the control diet only without any supplements (control), and the second group was fed on the basal diet contaminated with ZEN (0.725 mg/kg diet). Three other groups were fed on ZEN-contaminated diets and simultaneously supplemented with garlic powder (GP) (30 g/kg diet) (ZEN + GP), chitosan powder (CH) (10 g/kg diet) (ZEN + CH), and a mixture of GP and CH (ZEN + GP + CH). Fish were fed on the experimental diets thrice a day for 4 weeks. Two-way ANOVA revealed a gradual decline in serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in the ZEN group reaching their lowest levels at the 4th week. Contrariwise, malondialdehyde levels were markedly higher in the ZEN group reaching their highest values at the end of the experiment. A significant decline of total immunoglobulins (P < 0.05) was observed in the serum of the ZEN group, especially after the 4th week. Moreover, significant down-regulation of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) genes (P < 0.05) alongside significant up-regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) genes (P < 0.05) in the liver and anterior kidney of ZEN-intoxicated group. Interestingly, dietary supplementation with GP and CH significantly attenuated ZEN-induced oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and modulated transcriptomic responses of ZEN-exposed fish. Moreover, combined dietary supplementation of both feed additives resulted in better effects than each one alone.

The regulation of protein acetylation influences the redox homeostasis to protect the heart

The cellular damage caused by redox imbalance is involved in the pathogenesis of many cardiovascular diseases. Besides, redox imbalance is related to the alteration of protein acetylation processes, causing not only chromatin remodeling but also disturbances in so many processes where protein acetylation is involved, such as metabolism and signal transduction. The modulation of acetylases and deacetylases enzymes aids in maintaining the redox homeostasis, avoiding the deleterious cellular effects associated with the dysregulation of protein acetylation. Of note, regulation of protein acetylation has shown protective effects to ameliorate cardiovascular diseases. For instance, HDAC inhibition has been related to inducing cardiac protective effects and it is an interesting approach to the management of cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, the upregulation of SIRT protein activity has also been implicated in the relief of cardiovascular diseases. This review focuses on the major protein acetylation modulators described, involving pharmacological and bioactive compounds targeting deacetylase and acetylase enzymes contributing to heart protection through redox homeostasis.

Metal toxicity and natural antidotes: prevention is better than cure

Toxicity due to heavy metals (HM), specifically mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) remains a challenge to scientists till date. This review gives insights into natural antidotes for the management and prevention of HM toxicity. Various databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Science Direct were searched for available facts on natural antidotes and their commercial products against HM toxicity till date. Toxicity owing to such metals needs prevention rather than therapy. Natural antidotes, fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidant are the answers to such toxicities. Synthetic chelators impart a major drawback of removing essential metals required for normal body function, along with the toxic one. Natural antioxidants are bestowed with scavenging and chelation properties and can be alternative for synthetic chelating agents. Natural compounds are abundantly available, economic, and have minimal side effects when compared with classical chelators. Prevention is better than cure and thus adding plentiful vegetables and fruits to our diet can combat HM toxicity-related illness. Graphical abstract.