Anethole prevents hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis and collagen metabolism alterations in human skin fibroblasts

Croton grewioides essential oil and anethole reduce oxidative stress and improve growth of bovine primordial follicles during culture of ovarian tissue

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate the effects of Croton grewioides essential oil (CGEO) and anethole on follicle survival, growth, and oxidative stress in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.

METHODS

Ovarian tissues were cultured for 6 days in a medium supplemented with different concentrations (1, 10, 100, or 1000 µg mL-1) of CGEO or anethole and then, follicular survival and growth, collagen content, and stromal cell density in ovarian tissues cultured in vitro were evaluated by histology. The mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), peroxirredoxin 6 (PRDX6), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) were evaluated by real-time PCR. The activity of SOD, CAT, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiol concentrations were investigated.

KEY FINDINGS

Ovarian tissues cultured with 1 µg mL-1 CGEO or anethole had a higher percentage of healthy follicles than those cultured in a control medium (P < .05). The 1 µg mL-1 CGEO also increased the number of stromal cells, collagen fibers, and thiol levels. Anethole (1 µg mL-1) increased CAT activity and reduced that of GPx. The activity of SOD was reduced by CGEO. In contrast, 1 µg mL-1 anethole reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX1, and NRF2 (P < .05). In addition, 1 µg mL-1 CGEO reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX6, and GPx1 (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of 1 µg mL-1 anethole or CGEO in a culture medium promotes follicle survival and regulates oxidative stress and the expression of mRNA and activity of antioxidant enzymes in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils and Seed Extracts of Anethum graveolens from Southern Morocco: In Vitro and In Silico Approach for a Natural Alternative to Synthetic Preservatives

Anethum graveolens is an aromatic plant traditionally used as an antispasmodic and carminative. The objective of this study is to analyze the chemical composition of the essential oils and extracts obtained from seeds gathered in Errachidia, southern Morocco. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these oils and extracts will be evaluated. GC-MS analysis of the EO isolated by hydrodistillation revealed that its main compounds were E-anethole (38.13%), estragole (29.32%), fenchone (17.21%), and α-pinene (7.37%). The phenolic components were extracted using the methods of decoction and Soxhlet. The assay of the phenolic compounds showed that A. graveolens seeds contained considerable amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, with variable levels depending on the extract analyzed. HPLC/UV-ESI-MS analyses performed on the decoction revealed a structural diversity of the molecules present in this extract, the most important of which were umbelliferone (12.35%), 3-hydroxyflavone (11.23%), rosmanol (8.95%), biotin (8.36%), emmotin H (4.91%), and coumarin (4.21%). The antioxidant activity, as determined by three techniques (DPPH•, FRAP, and CAT), demonstrated that the essential oils (EOs) and extracts had a potent capacity to counteract detrimental free radicals, control the generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitigate oxidative damages. The antimicrobial activity of the Eos and extracts was carried out in a liquid medium against five strains (E. cloacae, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis) and four candidiasis (C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis) and Aspergillus niger. The results showed the effectiveness of the EOs compared to the aqueous, ethanolic, and decoction extracts against most of the microorganisms tested. In addition, the ethanolic extract showed antifungal activity that was distinguished from that of the other extracts. The antimicrobial efficacy of the essential oils under study can primarily be attributed to the synergistic interactions among its three principal constituents (E-anethole, estragole, and fenchone). Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation results reveal significant interactions and stability between the selected bioactive compounds and different target proteins involved in antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Compounds like 3-hydroxyflavone, emmotin H, trans-caftaric acid, methyl rosmarinate, 1-caffeoyl-beta-D-glucose, and kaempferol exhibited better binding energies with the explored proteins, indicating their potential as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Finally, our findings emphasize the significance of A. graveolens seeds as a promising reservoir of advantageous health compounds that can serve as organic substitutes for the presently employed synthetic preservatives.

Rhodium-Catalyzed Oxidative Alkenylation of Anisole: Control of Regioselectivity

We report the conversion of anisoles and olefins to alkenyl anisoles via a transition-metal-catalyzed arene C-H activation and olefin insertion mechanism. The catalyst precursor, [(η2-C2H4)2Rh(μ-OAc)]2, and the in situ oxidant Cu(OPiv)2 (OPiv = pivalate) convert anisoles and olefins (ethylene or propylene) to alkenyl anisoles. When ethylene is used as the olefin, the o/m/p ratio varies between approximately 1:3:1 (selective for 3-methoxystyrene) and 1:5:10 (selective for 4-methoxystyrene). When propylene is the olefin, the o/m/p regioselectivity varies between approximately 1:8:20 and 1:8.5:5. The o/m/p ratios depend on the concentration of pivalic acid and olefin. For example, when using ethylene, at relatively high pivalic acid concentrations and low ethylene concentrations, the o/m/p regioselectivity is 1:3:1. Conversely, again for use of ethylene, at relatively low pivalic acid concentrations and high ethylene concentrations, the o/m/p regioselectivity is 1:5:10. Mechanistic studies of the conversion of anisoles and olefins to alkenyl anisoles provide evidence that the regioselectivity is likely under Curtin-Hammett conditions.

Anethole supplementation during in vitro maturation increases in vitro goat embryo production in a concentration-dependent manner

During in vitro maturation (IVM) cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) are exposed to conditions that can trigger oxidative stress, thus, reducing oocyte maturation and viability. Aiming to mitigate these detrimental conditions, the effects of IVM medium supplementation with anethole have been tested. Anethole, also known as trans-anethole (1-methoxy-4 [1-propenyl]-benzene), is a naturally occurring phenylpropanoid with various pharmacological properties, including antioxidant effects. However, no study has examined anethole effect on goat COCs during IVM. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different anethole concentrations on oocyte maturation, oxidative stress, and in vitro development of caprine embryos after parthenogenetic activation. Goat COCs were selected and randomly distributed into the following treatments: TCM-199+ medium (control), or TCM-199+ medium supplemented with 30 μg/mL (AN30); 300 μg/mL (AN300) or 2000 μg/mL (AN2000) of anethole. After IVM, part of the COCs was chosen for oocyte viability and chromatin configuration, intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential assessment. Another part of COCs was parthenogenetically activated, and presumptive zygotes were cultured for 7 days. Results demonstrated that anethole at 30 μg/mL increased oocyte maturation and cleavage rates when compared to the other treatments (P < 0.05), as well as oocyte viability and in vitro embryo production when compared to the control treatment (P < 0.05). Additionally, treatment with anethole at 2000 μg/mL decreased oocyte nuclear maturation and cleavage rates when compared to other treatments (P < 0.05) and embryo production if compared to control and AN30 treatments (P < 0.05). Moreover, anethole at 2000 μg/mL increased mitochondrial membrane potential when compared to the other treatments (P < 0.05). In conclusion, anethole exerts a concentration-dependent effect during goat COCs IVM. For a more desirable outcome of oocyte viability and maturation, and in vitro embryo production, the use of anethole at 30 μg/mL is recommended.

Anethole Pretreatment Modulates Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion: The Role of JNK, p38, MMP-2 and MMP-9 Pathways

Anethole (AN) is one of the major constituents of several plant oils, demonstrating plentiful pharmacological actions. Ischemic stroke is the main cause of morbidity and death worldwide, particularly since ischemic stroke therapeutic choices are inadequate and limited; thus, the development of new therapeutic options is indispensable. This study was planned to explore the preventive actions of AN in ameliorating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain damage and BBB permeability leakage, as well as to explore anethole’s potential mechanisms of action. The proposed mechanisms included modulating JNK and p38 as well as MMP-2 and MMP-9 pathways. Sprague–Dawley male rats were randomly assigned into four groups: sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), AN125 + MCAO, and AN250 + MCAO. Animals in the third and fourth groups were pretreated with AN 125 or 250 mg/kg orally, respectively, for two weeks before performing middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced cerebral ischemic/reperfusion surgery. Animals that experienced cerebral ischemia/reperfusion exhibited amplified infarct volume, Evans blue intensity, brain water content, Fluoro-Jade B-positive cells, severe neurological deficits, and numerous histopathological alterations. MCAO animals exhibited elevated MMP-9 and MMP-2 gene expressions, enzyme activities, augmented JNK, and p38 phosphorylation. On the other hand, pretreatment with AN diminished the infarct volume, Evans blue dye intensity, brain water content, and Fluoro-Jade B-positive cells, improved the neurological score and enhanced histopathological examination. AN effectively lowered MMP-9 and MMP-2 gene expression and enzyme activities and diminished phosphorylated JNK, p38. AN decreased MDA content, amplified GSH/GSSG ratio, SOD, and CAT, decreased the serum and brain tissue homogenate inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), NF-κB, and deterred the apoptotic status. This study revealed the neuroprotective ability of AN against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats. AN boosted blood–brain barrier integrity via modulating MMPs and diminished oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis through the JNK/p38 pathway.

Protective effect of human amniotic membrane extract against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative damage in human dermal fibroblasts

OBJECTIVE

One of the main approaches to preventing skin ageing is to protect fibroblast cells from oxidative stress. The promoting effect of the human amniotic membrane extract (hAME) on re-epithelization, proliferation and migration of cells in wound healing has been already well studied. This experimental study aimed to investigate the antioxidant activity of hAME against hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ )-induced dermal fibroblast damage.

METHODS

Here, to establish the ageing model, human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) were exposed to 200 μM H₂ O₂ for 2 h. HFFs were treated with 0.1 mg/ml AME for 24 or 48 h before or/and after H₂ O₂ exposure. A total of 48 h following the H₂ O₂ treatment, we measured cell proliferation, viability, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal), antioxidants and preinflammatory cytokine (IL-6) levels, as well as the expression of senescence-associated genes (P53 and P21).

RESULTS

The obtained results indicated that under oxidative stress, AME significantly increased cellular viability and not only promoted the cell proliferation rate but also attenuated apoptotic induction condition (p < 0.001). AME also significantly reversed the SA-β-Gal levels induced by H₂ O₂ (p < 0.001). Additionally, both pre- and post-treatment regimen by AME down-regulated the expression of senescence marker genes (p < 0.001). Moreover, AME declined different oxidative stress biomarkers such as superoxide dismutase and catalase and increased the glutathione amount.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our results indicated that AME had a remarkable antioxidant and antiageing activity as pre- and post-treatment regimen, pointing to this compound as a potential natural-based cosmeceutical agent to prevent and treat skin ageing conditions.

Anethole's effects against myocardial infarction: The role of TLR4/NFκB and Nrf2/HO1 pathways

BACKGROUND

Exploring new drugs for the management of myocardial infarction (MI) is crucial, as MI is a major contributor to mortality worldwide. Anethole, a naturally occurring essential oil component, has numerous medicinal, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic purposes. This study explored the potential action of anethole to protect myocytes against MI injure.

METHODS

Wistar rats were divided into five groups: normal; anethole; and isoproterenol (ISO) groups in addition to two groups of ISO + anethole (125 and 250 mg/kg). All anethole groups were administered the oil component for 30 days, and all ISO groups were challenged with ISO on the 28th and 29th days. Parameters measured included infracted area, ECG, cardiac markers, the expression of Keap 1, nuclear Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1, as well as the expression of TLR4 and MYD88 together with subsequent downstream oxidative stress, inflammatory, and apoptotic markers.

RESULTS

Anethole reduced infarct region, degenerated cardiac indicators levels, amended ECG alterations, and diminished myocardial necrosis. Anethole reduced Keap-1, activated Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, increased mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme activities, declined the TLR4/MYD88 pathway, and ameliorated myocardial inflammation and cell death markers.

CONCLUSION

Anethole may retain a cardio-protective potential by controlling myocardial oxidative stress (through Nrf2 pathway) and diminishing inflammation and apoptosis via the TLR4/MYD88 pathway.

Trans-anethole ameliorates LPS-induced inflammation via suppression of TLR4/NF-κB pathway in IEC-6 cells

This study was undertaken to investigate the protective role of trans-anethole (TA) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced rat intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6) injury and the potential mechanisms. The cells were pretreated with TA (0 and 1 mM) for 24 h, prior to stimulation by LPS (1 mg/mL) for 24 h. Compared with the control group (CON), LPS stimulus resulted in decreased cell viability, intestinal barrier injury, increased cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. These effects triggered by LPS were reversed by TA. In order to reveal the main genes and pathways involved among the groups, transcriptome analysis was performed to identify the differential expression genes (DEGs) among the treatment groups. There were a total of 493 DEGs (275 upregulated and 218 downregulated) that were identified between the LPS and CON group. Meanwhile, a total of 361 DEGs (103 regulated and 258 downregulated) were identified in the LPS+TA group compared with the LPS group. The results showed that the DEGs were mostly enriched in immune related pathways, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, complement and coagulation cascades, interleukin-17 (IL-17) signaling pathway, NF-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, antigen processing and presentation, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway. Based on the results of RNA-sequencing, further investigation of the signaling pathway involved revealed that TA could inhibit the activation of toll like receptor 4 (TLR4)/NF-κB signaling pathway and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in LPS-induced IEC-6 cells. In conclusion, this finding demonstrated a functional role of TA in intestinal epithelial cells injury and indicated that TA may be a potential strategy for treatment of inflammatory intestinal diseases.

Trans-anethole Ameliorates Intestinal Injury Through Activation of Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Subclinical Necrotic Enteritis-Induced Broilers

This study was conducted to investigate the alleviative effects of trans-anethole (TA) on intestinal oxidative stress by enhancing the activities of intestinal antioxidant enzymes and activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway in subclinical necrotic enteritis (NE) infected broilers. A total of 192 1-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly allocated into three treatment groups: (1) control (CON); (2) subclinical NE challenge (NE); (3) NE challenge + 600 mg/kg TA (NE+TA600). Subclinical NE was induced by oral administration of live coccidiosis vaccine containing 2 × 10⁴ oocysts at 10 days of age and 2 ml of Clostridium perfringens type A solution (3 × 10⁸ CFU/ml) daily from days 14 to 19. The results showed that NE infection led to a severe decline (p < 0.05) in the final body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG), but an increase (p < 0.05) in feed/gain (F/G) of broilers at day 10–21 and day 1–21 compared with the control group. TA administration improved (p < 0.05) the growth performance of NE birds. The intestinal villus height (VH) and villus height/crypt depth (VH/CD) were reduced (p < 0.05) by NE challenge as compared with those of the control group, which was elevated by TA administration. Subclinical NE infection decreased (p < 0.05) serum activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and jejunal and ileal glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and T-SOD activity as well as T-AOC in the jejunum, while TA interventions positively elevated that (p < 0.05). Administration of TA protected the intestine against oxidative stress through up-regulation of intestinal nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway as compared with the NE group (p < 0.05). In addition, dietary inclusion of TA elevated (p < 0.05) mRNA abundance of c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met), jejunal epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) in the jejunum and ileum of birds after subclinical NE challenge. In conclusion, 600 mg/kg of TA may be a promising tool to prevent and control subclinical NE by increasing intestinal antioxidant status in broilers.

Anethole Ameliorates Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Mice: Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Anethole has possessed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses in numerous studies. Oxidative stress has a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of colitis. The current study is designed to determine the effect of anethole on acetic acid-induced colitis in mice in view of its possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, 48 mice were grouped into 6 groups (n = 8), and colitis was induced with 0.2 ml of 7% acetic acid. Mice received intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 7 constant days normal saline and/or anethole at doses of 31.25, 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg, respectively. After treatments, the colon was dissected out, and histopathological changes, expression of inflammatory genes (IL-1β, TNF-α, and TLR4), and evaluation of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed. The results showed that colitis is associated with edema and inflammatory responses in all layers and severe damage to the epithelium of the colon. Colitis causes a decrease in TAC, an increase in MDA levels, and an increase in inflammatory genes in the colon. Findings determined that anethole ameliorated the adverse effects of acetic acid-induced colitis in the colon. It is concluded that anethole, partially at least, possessed protective effects in acetic acid-induced colitis in mice through attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammatory response.

Eugenol-Preconditioned Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Antioxidant Capacity of Tendon Stem Cells In Vitro and In Vivo

Tendon stem cells (TSCs) are often exposed to oxidative stress at tendon injury sites, which impairs their physiological effect as well as therapeutic application. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were shown to mediate cell protection and survival under stress conditions. The function of BMSC-EVs may be affected by pretreatment with various factors such as eugenol (EUG)—a powerful antioxidant. In our previous study, we found that H₂O₂ significantly impaired TSC proliferation and tenogenic differentiation capabilities. Apoptosis and intracellular ROS accumulation in TSCs were induced by H₂O₂. However, such H₂O₂-induced damage was prevented by treatment with EUG-BMSC-EVs. Furthermore, EUG-BMSC-EVs activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to counteract H₂O₂-induced damage in TSCs. In a rat patellar tendon injury model, the ROS level was significantly higher than that in the normal tendon and TSCs not pretreated showed a poor therapeutic effect. However, EUG-BMSC-EV-pretreated TSCs significantly improved tenogenesis and matrix regeneration during tendon healing. Additionally, the EUG-BMSC-EV group had a significantly improved fiber arrangement. Overall, EUG-BMSC-EVs protected TSCs against oxidative stress and enhanced their functions in tendon injury. These findings provide a basis for potential clinical use of EUG-BMSC-EVs as a new therapeutic vehicle to facilitate TSC therapies for tendon regeneration.

Cornus sanguinea Fruits: a Source of Antioxidant and Antisenescence Compounds Acting on Aged Human Dermal and Gingival Fibroblasts

Five new compounds, a flavonol glycoside ( 1: ), a megastigmane ( 2: ), 2 cyclohexylethanoids ( 3, 4: ), and a phenylethanoid derivative ( 5: ), together with 15 known compounds ( 6: - 20: ) including flavonoid glycosides, cyclohexylethanoids, and phenolic compounds, have been isolated from Cornus sanguinea drupes. All the structures have been determined by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis and mass spectrometry data. The antioxidant capability of the most representative isolated compounds was evaluated in the hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced premature cellular senescence model of human dermal and gingival fibroblasts. Several derivatives counteracted the increase of reactive oxigen species (ROS) production in both cellular models. Among the most promising, compounds 8, 14: , and 20: were able to counteract cell senescence, decreasing the expression of p21 and p53. Furthermore, compound 14: decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6) in both cell models and counteracted the decrease of collagen expression induced by the H₂O₂ in dermal human fibroblasts. These data highlight the anti-aging properties of several isolated compounds from C. sanguinea drupes, supporting its possible use in the cure of skin or periodontitis lesions.

Review of the safety of application of cosmetic products containing parabens

Cosmetics are a source of lifetime exposure to various substances including parabens, being the most popular synthetic preservatives. Because the use of cosmetics shows an increasing trend and some adverse health outcomes of parabens present in these products have been reported, the present review focused on the safety of dermal application of these compounds. Special attention has been paid to the absorption of parabens and their retention in the human body in the intact form, as well as to their toxicological characteristics. Particular emphasis has been placed on the estrogenic potential of parabens. Based on the available published data of the concentrations of parabens in various kinds of cosmetics, the average ranges of systemic exposure dose (SED) for methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben have been calculated. Safety evaluations [margin of safety (MoS)] for these compounds, based on their aggregate exposure, have also been performed. Moreover, evidence for the negative impact of methylparaben on skin cells has been provided, and the main factors that may intensify dermal absorption of parabens and their impact on the skin have been described. Summarizing, the use of single cosmetics containing parabens should not pose a hazard for human health; however, using excessive quantities of cosmetic preparations containing these compounds may lead to the development of unfavorable health outcomes. Due to the real risk of estrogenic effects, as a result of exposure to parabens in cosmetics, simultaneous use of many cosmetic products containing these preservatives should be avoided.

trans-Anethole attenuated renal injury and reduced expressions of angiotensin II receptor (AT1R) and TGF-β in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Fibrosis is a pathological process in diabetic nephropathy that causes renal failure and dysfunction. Given the known anti-diabetic effects of trans-Anethole (TA), we aimed to investigate its renoprotective and anti-fibrotic effect alone and in combination with losartan in diabetic nephropathy. Male Wistar rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of 65 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) for diabetes induction. Diabetic rats were treated orally with saline, TA (80 mg/kg), losartan (Los; 10 mg/kg), or the combination of TA and losartan (TA-Los) daily for five weeks. Renal function was monitored during the study, and renal fibrosis, oxidative stress markers, apoptotic cells, and the expression and localization of AT1R, TGF-β1, and Col-IV were detected in the kidney. Results showed that TA alone and in combination with losartan was able to decrease blood glucose, urea, and creatinine levels and improve kidney function parameters. TA, Los, and TA-Los significantly reduced tubule vascular degeneration, glomerular and tubulointerstitial sclerosis, oxidative stress, and apoptotic cells. Immunohistochemistry analyses showed that TA, losartan, and TA-losartan combination downregulated the AT1R, Col IV, and TGF-β1 expression and distribution in diabetic rat kidneys. Results suggest that TA is able to suppress diabetic nephropathy in rats effectively, probably by decreasing blood glucose levels and downregulating AT1R and TGF-β1 expression.

Anti-inflammatory Effect of Low-Dose Anethole and Ibuprofen Combination Is Accompanied by Partial Prevention of Hepatic Metabolic Changes in Arthritic Rats

Anethole (AN) is a natural compound that has attracted great scientific interest because of its numerous biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects. However, these effects were obtained with high doses of AN, which may be one limitation of its therapeutic use. This study evaluated the effects of a low-dose AN and ibuprofen (IB) combination on inflammatory parameters in Freund's complete adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) and arthritis-induced hepatic metabolic changes. Holtzman rats were used and divided into groups: normal, AIA (control), arthritics treated with IB, arthritics treated with AN, and arthritics treated with AN + IB. The volume of the paws, the appearance of secondary lesions, and the number of synovial leukocytes were evaluated. Gluconeogenesis and ureagenesis from alanine were determined in the rat liver in isolated perfusion. The AN + IB (62.5 + 8.75 mg/kg) treatment exerted an inhibitory effect on inflammatory parameters and partially prevented hepatic metabolic changes that was similar to the effect of high-dose IB (35 mg/kg) and AN (250 mg/kg) treatment. This effect of the treatments on hepatic metabolism can be, partly at least, explained by the preservation of both the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity and the cytosolic NADH/NAD⁺ redox potential in the liver. Taken together, the data obtained provided evidence that the AN + IB combination at lower doses than AN and IB treatment alone had beneficial inhibitory potential for the treatment of AIA and attenuated metabolic changes in the liver. Graphical Abstract.

Anethole improves blastocysts rates together with antioxidant capacity when added during bovine embryo culture rather than in the in vitro maturation medium

We performed the exposure of bovine oocytes to anethole during in vitro maturation (0 or 300 µg/ml), during in vitro embryo production (0, 30, 300 or 2000 µg/ml), or during both periods to determine the rates of 2-4 cells embryos, blastocysts rates and cells numbers, as well as the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Bovine ovaries (n = 240) were collected from a local abattoir after slaughter and cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) with homogeneous and non-dark cytoplasm, surrounded by two or more compact layers of cumulus cells, and an intact zona pellucida were selected for in vitro maturatuion (IVM). Mature oocytes were then submitted to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro embryo production (IVP) in culture medium supplemented or not with different concentrations of anethole, as described above. Although IVM medium supplementation with 300 µg/ml anethole improved the rates of bovine blastocysts formation, we demonstrated that IVP medium supplementation with 30 µg/ml anethole, regardless of IVM medium enrichment, considerably enhanced blastocysts rates. Furthermore, ROS levels were decreased only when anethole was added to the IVP medium without previous IVM medium supplementation.

Natural antioxidants in the vitrification solution improve the ovine ovarian tissue preservation

The present study evaluated the effect of the addition of antioxidants anethole (AN) and robinin (RO) in the vitrification solution, and the in vitro incubation (IVI) medium of ovine ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments were vitrified without antioxidant (VWA) or with different concentrations of AN (30, 300 and 2000 μg/mL) or RO (0.125, 0.25 and 0.50 mg/mL), followed by IVI (24 h). Histological analyses showed that the percentage of morphologically normal preantral follicles (MNPF) in AN 2000 did not differ from RO 0.125 or fresh ovarian tissue (CTR). Subsequently, ovarian fragments were vitrified in the presence of AN 2000 and RO 0.125 followed by IVI without or with (AN 2000+ and RO 0.125+) the same antioxidants. The follicular activation in all treatments was significantly increased as compared to the CTR. The stroma cell density (SCD) in all the vitrified fragments was significantly lower than the CTR. However, in the AN 2000 and RO 0.125 this parameter was significantly higher when compared to the VWA. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the ovarian cortex of the AN 2000 or AN 2000+ were significantly reduced in comparison with the CTR while the intracellular ROS levels of AN 2000 and CTR were similar. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in RO 0.125 was significantly higher than that of VWA, AN 2000 and AN 2000+. According to the results, the use of antioxidants (AN or RO) only in the vitrification solution of ovine ovarian tissue is recommended, due to their better preservation of the SCD. Moreover, AN 2000 best maintains the follicular morphology, while RO 0.125 has a high TAC.

The concentration-dependent effect of anethole on collagen, MMP-2 and GAG in human skin fibroblast cultures

PURPOSE

In aging skin and some skin disorders, components of skin extracellular matrix (ECM) are disturbed and therefore research to find skin drugs is important. Evaluation of anethole impact on collagen, GAGs and MMP-2 in human skin fibroblasts was the aim of this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For collagen assay the Sircol dye, 5-[³H]proline and real time-PCR were used. MMP-2 activity was detected by zymography. GAG concentration was determined using 1,9-dimethylmethylene blue (DMMB). Cell viability was assayed with MTT.

RESULTS

In cells treated with 1 and 10 μM anethole, a significant increase in collagen synthesis was demonstrated. In contrast, collagen synthesis was significantly decreased in cells exposed to 100 μM anethole. Similar alterations were found in collagen type I expression. The concentration of collagen secreted into the medium was higher only in cells exposed to 1 μM anethole, while it was lower under the influence of higher compound concentrations. It may be due to the lack of pro-MMP-2 activation at 1 μM and a significant increase in the level of MMP-2 at 10 and 100 μM anethole. GAG concentration was reduced under the influence of 100 μM anethole, whereas anethole at lower concentrations revealed the ability to prevent H₂O₂-induced GAG increase. No significant cytotoxicity of anethole to fibroblasts was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate the concentration-dependent action of anethole on the crucial components of ECM in cultured skin fibroblasts, which may be somewhat beneficial and may possibly be developed towards a therapeutic use in some skin disorders.

Therapeutic Role of Resveratrol and Quercetin on Aortic Fibroblasts of Psammomys obesus After Oxidative Stress by Hydrogen Peroxide

In our study, we propose to analyze the effects of resveratrol (RES) and quercetin (QRC) on proliferation markers, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation of aortic fibroblasts of Psammomys obesus after induced oxidative stress by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Fibroblasts were incubated in RES 375 μM and QRC 0.083 μM for 24 hours after exposure to H2O2 1.2 mM for 6 hours. We performed the proliferation rate, cells viability, morphological analyses, cytochrome c, Akt, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK quantification. The redox status was achieved by proportioning of malondialdehyde, nitric monoxide, advanced oxidation protein products, carbonyl proteins, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activity. The inflammation was measured by TNFα, MCP1, and NF-kB assay. The extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling was performed by SDS-PAGE. Stressed fibroblasts showed a decrease of cell proliferation and viability, hypertrophy and oncosis, chromatin hypercondensation and increase of cytochrome c release characteristic of apoptosis, activation of ERK1/2 and Akt pathway, and decreases in p38 MAPK pathways marking the cellular resistance. The redox state was disrupted by increased malondialdehyde, nitric monoxide, advanced oxidation protein products, carbonyl protein production, catalase and superoxide dismutase activity, and a decreased production of proteins including collagens. Inflammation state was marked by MCP-1, TNFα, and NF-kB increase. Treatment of fibroblasts stressed by RES and QRC inverted the oxidative stress situation decreasing apoptosis and inflammation, and improving the altered redox status and rearrangement of disorders observed in extracellular matrix. H2O2 induced biochemical and morphological alterations leading to apoptosis. An improved general condition is observed after treatment with RES and QRC; this explains the antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects of polyphenols.

Trans-anethole ameliorates obesity via induction of browning in white adipocytes and activation of brown adipocytes

To treat obesity, suppression of white adipose tissue (WAT) expansion and activation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) are considered as potential therapeutic targets. Recent advances have been made in the induction of brown fat-like adipocytes (beige) in WAT, which represents an attractive potential strategy for the management and treatment of obesity. Use of natural compounds for browning of white adipocytes can be considered as a safe and novel strategy against obesity. Here, we report that trans-anethole (TA), a flavoring substance present in the essential oils of various plants, alleviated high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice models via elevation of the expression of beige-specific genes such as Ppargc1α, Prdm16, Ucp1, Cd137, Cited1, Tbx1, and Tmem26. TA also regulated lipid metabolism in white adipocytes via reduction of adipogenesis and lipogenesis as well as elevation of lipolysis and fat oxidation. Moreover, TA exhibited thermogenic activity by increasing mitochondrial biogenesis in white adipocytes and activating brown adipocytes. In addition, molecular docking analysis enabled us to successfully predict core proteins for fat browning such as β3-adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) and sirtuin1 (SIRT1) based on their low binding energy interactions with TA for promotion of regulatory mechanisms. Indeed, agonistic and antagonistic studies demonstrated that TA induced browning of 3T3-L1 adipocytes through activation of β3-AR as well as the AMPK-mediated SIRT1 pathway regulating PPARα and PGC-1α. In conclusion, TA possesses potential therapeutic implications for treatment of obesity by playing multiple modulatory roles in the induction of white fat browning, activation of brown adipocytes, and promotion of lipid catabolism.

Mechanisms underlying the wound healing potential of propolis based on its in vitro antioxidant activity

BACKGROUND

Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees, Apis mellifera, from various plant sources. Having various pharmacological and biological activities, it has been used in folk medicine and complementary therapies since ancient times.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects and underlying mechanism of the protective effects of the ethanol extract of Chinese propolis (EECP) on L929 cells injured by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂).

STUDY DESIGN

The wound healing activities of EECP in L929 cells with H₂O₂-induced damage were investigated.

METHODS

The main components of EECP were analyzed by RP-HPLC, and the free radical scavenging capacity and reducing power were also measured. The effects of EECP on the expression of antioxidant-related genes in fibroblast L929 cells were determined using qRT-PCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

EECP had significant protective effects against cell death induced by H₂O₂ and significantly inhibited the decline of collagen mRNA expression caused by H₂O₂ in L929 cells.

CONCLUSION

EECP induced the expression of antioxidant-related genes, such as HO-1, GCLM, and GCLC, which has great implications for the potential of propolis to alleviate oxidative stress in wound tissues. The protective effects of propolis have great implications for using propolis as a wound healing regent.

Chlorin e6-mediated photodynamic therapy promotes collagen production and suppresses MMPs expression via modulating AP-1 signaling in P. acnes-stimulated HaCaT cells

BACKGROUND

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a clinically approved therapeutic for cancers and non-neoplastic diseases, based on the use of a photosensitizer activated by light. The feasibility of PDT depends on several factors, such as PDT dose, photosensitizer efficacy, type of light source, and target tissue irradiated.

METHODS

In this study, the second generation photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) and halogen light were used to investigate their PDT effect on the collagen production and MMPs expression of heat killed P. acnes-stimulated HaCaT cells. The mRNA levels of COL1A1, c-Jun, and c-Fos were detected by RT-PCR. The protein levels of MMPs, ERK and JNK were detected by western blot. The transactivation of AP-1 was detected by luciferase assay.

RESULTS

Ce6-based PDT markedly upregulated the mRNA level of COL1A1 and type I procollagen level; and at the same time downregulated the expression of MMPs in P. acnes-infected HaCaT cells. Moreover, Ce6-mediated PDT, in a dose dependent manner, inhibited P. acnes-induced phosphorylation of JNK and ERK, as wells as the phosphorylation of their downstream targets c-Jun and c-Fos. P. acnes-induced mRNA expression of c-Jun and c-Fos were also suppressed by Ce6-mediated PDT. The transactivation of AP-1 induced by P. acnes infection was also downregulated.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that Ce6-mediated PDT with halogen light enhanced collagen production, but inhibited the expression of MMPs in P. acnes-infected HaCaT cells, by regulating AP-1 signals. This investigation provided the first molecular basis for the increase in collagen production by Ce6-mediated PDT, suggesting its potential use for scar amelioration and skin rejuvenation in acne treatment.

Selected flavonoid compounds as promising inhibitors of protein kinase CK2α and CK2α', the catalytic subunits of CK2

CK2 is a ubiquitous protein kinase involved in many cell functions. During the last years it became an interesting target in cancer research. A series of flavonoid compounds was tested as inhibitors of protein kinase CK2. Several substances were found to be highly active against both catalytic subunits with IC₅₀ values below 1 μM in case of CK2α'. The most promising inhibitor we identified is chrysoeriol with IC₅₀ values of 250 and 34 nM for CK2α and CK2α', respectively.

Biological Properties of Some Volatile Phenylpropanoids

Plants and their extracts are the new field of interest for many scientists and also of some pharmaceutical industries. In order to provide more information for their usage in the prevention and treatment of diseases many clinical trials and researches are being carried out. In this review the biological activities and the mechanism of action of volatile phenylpropanoids (PPs) found in essential oils (EOs) are presented. The aim of this overview is to show that volatile PPs found in EOs can exert many of the biological activities which are generally attributed to EOs. Almost all of the PPs possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. These are related to the different substitution of the phenylpropane molecule. For each isolated group not only one, but more pharmacological activities can be credited.

Enzyme-Treated Asparagus Extract Attenuates Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Expression in Murine Skin Fibroblast L929 Cells

Enzyme-treated asparagus extract (ETAS) exerts a wide variety of beneficial biological actions including facilitating anti-cortisol stress and neurological anti-aging responses. However, the anti-skin aging effects of ETAS remain to be elucidated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play pivotal roles in skin aging. Increased ROS levels in fibroblasts in response to ultraviolet irradiation activate c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and its downstream transcription factor activator protein-1 (AP-1), and the resultant gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) isoforms accelerates collagen breakdown in the dermis. Therefore, we explored whether ETAS has anti-skin aging effects by attenuating the oxidative stress responses in fibroblasts. Simultaneous treatment of murine skin L929 fibroblasts with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and either ETAS or dextrin showed that ETAS significantly suppressed H2O2-induced expression of MMP-9 mRNA as measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. ETAS also clearly suppressed H2O2-stimulated phosphorylation of c-Jun (AP-1 subunit) and JNK as determined by Western blot. However, ETAS did not affect the increased amounts of carbonyl proteins in response to H2O2, also as determined by Western blotting. These results suggest that ETAS diminishes cellular responsiveness to ROS but does not scavenge ROS. Thus, ETAS has the potential to prevent skin aging through attenuating the oxidative stress responses in dermal fibroblasts.