Protective effects of apigenin, apigenin-8-sulfonate, and apigenin-3′, 8-disulfonate on d-galactosamine-induced acute liver damage in mice

The synthesis and bioactivity of apigenin derivatives

BACKGROUND

Apigenin, a naturally occurring compound with a flavone core structure, is known for its diverse bioactivities, including anti-inflammation, anti-toxicant, anti-cancer and so on. There has been significant interest in the medicinal chemistry community. To address these challenges, researchers have developed various derivatives of apigenin to address challenges such as poor water-solubility and low intestinal absorption, aiming to enhance the pharmacological activities and pharmacokinetic properties of this compound.

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, there has been a proliferation of apigenin derivatives with enhanced bioactivity. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews on the function-based modification of these derivatives. In this paper, we provide an overview of the apigenin derivatives with varying bioactivities and explored their structure activity relationships. And the functions of different groups of apigenin derivatives were also analyzed.

CONCLUSION

This review summarized the current achievements that could provide some clues for further study of apigenin-based drugs.

Datura stramonium Leaf Extract Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Activity in CCL4-Induced Hepatic Injury Model by Modulating Oxidative Stress Markers and iNOS/Nrf2 Expression

Background

Inflammation is a frequent phenomenon in the pathogenesis of hepatic disorders leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Phytopharmaceuticals developed from traditional medicine can provide effective therapeutic alternatives to conventional medications. Datura stramonium (DS) has reported traditional uses in inflammatory diseases. In this study, we have tried to validate its potential as a source of anti-inflammatory agents.

Methods

Powdered leaf part of DS was extracted using ethyl acetate (EA) to provide the extract (DSL-EA). Lymphocyte and macrophage viability and acute toxicity assays established the safety profile, while nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assay estimated the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential. Noninvasive anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and antinociceptive activities were monitored using BALB/c mice using low and high doses (150 and 250 mg/kg). Major inflammatory studies were performed on Sprague-Dawley male rats using CCl4-induced liver injury model. Disease induction was initiated by intraperitoneal injections of CCl4 (1 mL/kg of 30% CCl4 in olive oil). The rats were divided into six groups. The anti-inflammatory potential of DSL-EA in low and high doses (150 and 300 mg/kg, respectively) was assessed through hematological, biochemical, liver antioxidant defense, oxidative stress markers, and histological studies as well as the expression of Nrf2 and iNOS.

Results

DSL-EA exhibited prominent in vitro NO scavenging (IC50: 7.625 ± 0.51 μg/mL) and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in paw and anal edema models. In CCl4 model, hematological investigations revealed vasotonic effects. Liver functionality was significantly (P < 0.001 - 0.05) improved in DSL-EA-treated rats. The activity level of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in liver tissues was improved in a manner identical to silymarin. The extract reduced the percent concentration of oxidative stress markers in liver tissues. Furthermore, DSL-EA displayed restorative effects on histological parameters (H and E and Masson's trichrome staining). Immunohistochemistry studies showed marked decline in Nrf2 expression, while overexpression of iNOS was also observed in disease control rats. The damage was distinctly reversed by the extract.