1
|
Serra M, Simola N, Pollack AE, Costa G. Brain dysfunctions and neurotoxicity induced by psychostimulants in experimental models and humans: an overview of recent findings. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1908-1918. [PMID: 38227515 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that psychostimulants, in addition to having abuse potential, may elicit brain dysfunctions and/or neurotoxic effects. Central toxicity induced by psychostimulants may pose serious health risks since the recreational use of these substances is on the rise among young people and adults. The present review provides an overview of recent research, conducted between 2018 and 2023, focusing on brain dysfunctions and neurotoxic effects elicited in experimental models and humans by amphetamine, cocaine, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, methylphenidate, caffeine, and nicotine. Detailed elucidation of factors and mechanisms that underlie psychostimulant-induced brain dysfunction and neurotoxicity is crucial for understanding the acute and enduring noxious brain effects that may occur in individuals who use psychostimulants for recreational and/or therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alexia E Pollack
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts-Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Houshyar M, Karimi H, Ghofrani-Jahromi Z, Nouri S, Vaseghi S. Crocin (bioactive compound of Crocus sativus L.) potently restores REM sleep deprivation-induced manic- and obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors in female rats. Behav Pharmacol 2024; 35:239-252. [PMID: 38567447 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation (SD) can induce manic-like behaviors including hyperlocomotion. On the other hand, crocin (one of the main compounds of Crocus sativus L. or Saffron) may be beneficial in the improvement of mental and cognitive dysfunctions. Also, crocin can restore the deleterious effects of SD on mental and cognitive processes. In this study, we investigated the effect of REM SD on female rats' behaviors including depression- and anxiety-like behaviors, locomotion, pain perception, and obsessive-compulsive-like behavior, and also, the potential effect of crocin on REM SD effects. We used female rats because evidence on the role of REM SD in modulating psychological and behavioral functions of female (but not male) rats is limited. REM SD was induced for 14 days (6h/day), and crocin (25, 50, and 75 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally. Open field test, forced swim test, hot plate test, and marble burying test were used to assess rats' behaviors. The results showed REM SD-induced manic-like behavior (hyperlocomotion). Also, REM SD rats showed decreased anxiety- and depression-like behavior, pain subthreshold (the duration it takes for the rat to feel pain), and showed obsessive compulsive-like behavior. However, crocin at all doses partially or fully reversed REM SD-induced behavioral changes. In conclusion, our results suggested the possible comorbidity of OCD and REM SD-induced manic-like behavior in female rats or the potential role of REM SD in the etiology of OCD, although more studies are needed. In contrast, crocin can be a possible therapeutic choice for decreasing manic-like behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Houshyar
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr
| | - Hanie Karimi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran
| | - Zahra Ghofrani-Jahromi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR
| | - Sarah Nouri
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR
| | - Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yang B, Tan X, Chen Y, Lin J, Liang J, Yue X, Qiao D, Wang H, Du S. The neuroprotective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester against methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116497. [PMID: 38805827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a highly abused substance on a global scale and has the capacity to elicit toxicity within the central nervous system. The neurotoxicity induced by METH encompasses neuronal degeneration and cellular demise within the substantia nigra-striatum and hippocampus. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a constituent of propolis, is a diminutive compound that demonstrates antioxidative and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Numerous investigations have demonstrated the safeguarding effects of CAPE in various neurodegenerative ailments. Our hypothesis posits that CAPE may exert a neuroprotective influence on METH-induced neurotoxicity via specific mechanisms. In order to validate the hypothesis, a series of experimental techniques including behavioral tests, immunofluorescence labeling, RNA sequencing, and western blotting were employed to investigate the neurotoxic effects of METH and the potential protective effects of CAPE. The results of our study demonstrate that CAPE effectively ameliorates cognitive memory deficits and anxiety symptoms induced by METH in mice. Furthermore, CAPE has been observed to attenuate the upregulation of neurotoxicity-associated proteins that are induced by METH exposure and also reduced the loss of hippocampal neurons in mice. Moreover, transcriptomics analysis was conducted to determine alterations in gene expression within the hippocampus of mice. Subsequently, bioinformatics analysis was employed to investigate the divergent outcomes and identify potential key genes. Interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) was successfully identified and confirmed through RT-qPCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence techniques. Our research findings unequivocally demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of CAPE against METH-induced neurotoxicity, with ISG15 may have an important role in the underlying protective mechanism. These results offer novel perspectives on the treatment of METH-induced neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Yang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Xiaohui Tan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Yuzhen Chen
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Jing Lin
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Jingjie Liang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Xia Yue
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Dongfang Qiao
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Huijun Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Sihao Du
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Patel KS, Dharamsi A, Priya M, Jain S, Mandal V, Girme A, Modi SJ, Hingorani L. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract attenuates chronic scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment, amyloid beta, and neurofibrillary tangles accumulation in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117898. [PMID: 38341114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Crocus sativus L. known as saffron, is a popular food condiment with a high aroma, deep colour, and long and thick threads (stigmas) cultivated in Iran, Morocco, Spain, Italy, China, Japan, France, Turkey, and India. In 'Ayurveda', saffron is acknowledged for its immunostimulant, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, liver tonic, nervine tonic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactagogue, febrifuge, sedative, relaxant, and anxiolytic activities. The renowned Persian physician and philosopher, Avicenna, delineated saffron as an antidepressant, hypnotic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, bronchodilator, and aphrodisiac in his book, the Canon of Medicine. Within traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM), saffron is characterized as a mood elevator and a rejuvenator for the body and senses. Further, the ethnopharmacological evidence indicates that saffron has shown an effect against neurodegenerative disorders namely, dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's with its bioactive constituents i.e., carotenoids and apocarotenoids. AIM The present study aimed to investigate the potential of standardized (Kashmir Saffron, India) Crocus sativus extract (CSE) in chronic scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) accumulation in rat brains by targeting AChE inhibition and scopolamine mechanistic effect. METHODS The experimental animals were divided into six groups: group 1: normal control, group 2: scopolamine, group 3,4 and 5 rivastigmine tartrate, CSE (p.o. 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg) respectively. Each treatment group received scopolamine after 20 min of dosing, till 4 weeks. The effects of different treatments on learning, acquisition, and reversal memory were performed using a Morris water maze test. In addition to behavioral assessments, biochemical parameters such as AChE, IL-6, and antioxidants were measured in isolated brains. Histological observations were also conducted to assess the presence of Aβ plaques and NFT. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to explore the potential AChE inhibitory activity of the bioactive constituents of standardized CSE. RESULTS Scopolamine produces memory impairment, and its chronic administration forms Aβ plaque and NFT in rat brains. Supplementation with CSE in presence of scopolamine has shown remarkable effects on behavioural activity, special acquisition, and reversal memory. The CSE has also shown promising effects on AChE inhibition and antioxidant activity. The results of the docking study also indicate that trans-crocetin, i.e., a biologically active metabolite of Crocins, has strong AChE inhibitory activity, supported by an in vivo animal experiment. CONCLUSION Supplementation with CSE significantly attenuates the formation of Aβ plaque and NFT in the hippocampus at a dose of 20 mg/kg per day. In addition, CSE also counters scopolamine-induced neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Komal S Patel
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Abhay Dharamsi
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Madhu Priya
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Sanskar Jain
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Vishal Mandal
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Aboli Girme
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | | | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kargar HMP, Noshiri H. Protective effects of alpha-lipoic acid on anxiety-like behavior, memory and prevention of hippocampal oxidative stress in methamphetamine-treated rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:315-326. [PMID: 37882813 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06487-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Alpha-lipoic acid is an essential cofactor for aerobic metabolism and acts as a potent antioxidant in the body. It has been shown that acute exposure to methamphetamine induces oxidative stress, which is responsible for severe cognitive deficits in animals. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the processing of memory and anxiety-like behavior. OBJECTIVES In this study, preventive effect of the alpha-lipoic acid on memory impairment in methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity was investigated. METHODS Wistar male rats (200-220 g) were allocated to five groups (seven rats in each group): (1) saline + saline, (2) saline + vehicle (sunflower oil as alpha-lipoic acid solvent), (3) methamphetamine + vehicle, (4) methamphetamine + alpha-lipoic acid 10 mg/kg, and (5) methamphetamine + alpha-lipoic acid 40 mg/kg. Rats received intraperitoneal methamphetamine repeatedly (2 × 20 mg/kg, 2 h interval). Alpha-lipoic acid was injected 30 min, 24 h, and 48 h after the last injection of methamphetamine. The passive avoidance test and open field were used for evaluation of memory retrieval and anxiety, respectively. After behavioral test, rats were anesthetized, their brains were extracted, and after preparing hippocampal homogenates, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were evaluated. RESULTS Statistical analysis showed that injection of saline or sunflower oil had no significant effect on anxiety, memory, or oxidative stress markers. Methamphetamine induced memory impairment, increased anxiety-like behavior and MDA level, but it reduced catalase and SOD activity. Treatment with alpha-lipoic acid decreased MDA, increased catalase and SOD activity, and also prevented memory impairment and anxiety-like behavior. Our results showed that alpha-lipoic acid protected the hippocampus from oxidative stress by elevating SOD and CAT activities and reduced memory impairment following acute methamphetamine injection. These findings suggest that alpha-lipoic acid may have a protective effect against the adverse effects of methamphetamine exposure on the hippocampus. Therefore, the current data indicated that ALA can reduce oxidative stress predominantly by its antioxidant property.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Mohammad Pour Kargar
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University, Damghan Branch, Damghan, Iran.
| | - Hamid Noshiri
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Moghadasi M, Akbari F, Najafi P. Interaction of aerobic exercise and crocin improves memory, learning and hypocampic tau and neurotrophins gene expression in rats treated with trimethytin as a model of Alzheimer's disease. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:111. [PMID: 38227208 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09197-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive decline and a reduction in hippocampal neurotrophins, in which trimethytin (TMT) infusion causes tangles and neuronal dysfunction, creating an AD-like model in rats. Previous studies have demonstrated that crocin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, can enhance learning, memory acquisition, and cognitive behavior. This study aimed to assess the combined impact of aerobic exercise and crocin on memory, learning, and hippocampal Tau and neurotrophins gene expression in AD-like model rats. METHODS Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: (1) healthy control, (2) Alzheimer's control, (3) endurance training, (4) crocin consumption, and (5) endurance training + crocin. Alzheimer's induction was achieved in groups 2-5 through intraperitoneal injection of 8 mg/kg TMT. Rats in groups 3 and 5 engaged in treadmill running three sessions per week, 15-30 min per session, at a speed of 15-20 m/min for eight weeks, and groups 4 and 5 received daily crocin supplementation of 25 mg/kg. RESULTS Alzheimer's induction with TMT showed significant reduction in memory, learning, NGF, BDNF, and TrkB gene expression, and increase in tau gene expression (all p < 0.05). Notably, endurance training and crocin consumption separately significantly increased memory, learning, NGF, BDNF, and TrkB gene expression while significantly decreasing tau gene expression (all p < 0.05). Importantly, combined endurance training with crocin yielded the most profound effects on memory (p = 0.001), NGF (p = 0.002), BDNF (p = 0.001), and TrkB (p = 0.003) gene expression (p < 0.005), as well as a reduction in tau gene expression (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION These findings underscore the possible impact of endurance training, particularly when coupled with crocin, on enhancing memory, learning, and neurotrophin gene expression and reducing tau gene expression in Alzheimer's rats. These results highlight the possibility of synergistic interventions for improved therapeutic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehrzad Moghadasi
- Department of Physical Education, Shiraz branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Akbari
- Department of Physical Education, Darab branch, Islamic Azad University, Darab, Iran
| | - Parisa Najafi
- Faculty of Sports and Exercise Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lin L, Chen Z, Li J, Peng J, Wang J, Feng M, Liu T, Zhang M, Wu X, Ai F, Shen C. Crocin alleviates neurotoxicity induced by bupivacaine in SH-SY5Y cells with inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling. Genes Genomics 2024; 46:149-160. [PMID: 37523128 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-023-01431-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bupivacaine, a common local anesthetic, can cause neurotoxicity and permanent neurological disorders. Crocin has been widely reported as a potential neuroprotective agent in neural injury models. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of crocin underlying bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity. METHOD Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with bupivacaine and/or crocin for 24 h, followed by detecting cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The effect of crocin or bupivacaine on SH-SY5Y cell proliferation was measured by Ki67 immunofluorescence assay. The levels of apoptosis-related proteins and the markers in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway were examined using western blot analysis. The activities of caspase 3, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were tested using respective commercial assay kits. Flow cytometry analysis was executed for detecting SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis. RESULT Crocin attenuated bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, crocin inhibited SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis induced by bupivacaine via repressing the activity of caspase-3, reducing Bax expression, and elevating Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, crocin mitigated oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells by increasing the content of CAT, SOD, GSH-Px and reducing the content of MDA. Additionally, crocin protected against bupivacaine-induced dephosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. The protective effects of crocin against bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells were counteracted by the Akt inhibitor. CONCLUSION These results suggested that crocin may exert a neuroprotective function by promoting cell proliferation and suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells. Thus, crocin might become a promising drug for the treatment of bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zongrui Hospital of Beilun, Ningbo, 315800, China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Department of Emergency, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 26 Shengli Street, Jiang'an District, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Jianye Peng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medcial School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421099, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, No.59 Liuting Street, Haishu District, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Mingjun Feng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, No.59 Liuting Street, Haishu District, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Tiancheng Liu
- Department of Emergency, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 26 Shengli Street, Jiang'an District, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Mengli Zhang
- Department of Emergency, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 26 Shengli Street, Jiang'an District, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Xian Wu
- Department of Emergency, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 26 Shengli Street, Jiang'an District, Wuhan, 430014, China
| | - Fen Ai
- Department of Emergency, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 26 Shengli Street, Jiang'an District, Wuhan, 430014, China.
| | - Caijie Shen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, No.59 Liuting Street, Haishu District, Ningbo, 315010, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Monchaux de Oliveira C, Morael J, Guille A, Amadieu C, Vancassel S, Gaudout D, Capuron L, Pourtau L, Castanon N. Saffron extract interferes with lipopolysaccharide-induced brain activation of the kynurenine pathway and impairment of monoamine neurotransmission in mice. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1267839. [PMID: 37867499 PMCID: PMC10585275 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1267839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although activation of inflammatory processes is essential to fight infections, its prolonged impact on brain function is well known to contribute to the pathophysiology of many medical conditions, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Therefore, identifying novel strategies to selectively counter the harmful effects of neuroinflammation appears as a major health concern. In that context, this study aimed to test the relevance of a nutritional intervention with saffron, a spice known for centuries for its beneficial effect on health. Methods For this purpose, the impact of an acute oral administration of a standardized saffron extract, which was previously shown to display neuromodulatory properties and reduce depressive-like behavior, was measured in mice challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 830 μg/kg, ip). Results Pretreatment with saffron extract (6.5 mg/kg, per os) did not reduce LPS-induced sickness behavior, preserving therefore this adaptive behavioral response essential for host defense. However, it interfered with delayed changes of expression of cytokines, chemokines and markers of microglial activation measured 24 h post-LPS treatment in key brain areas for behavior and mood control (frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum). Importantly, this pretreatment also counteracted by that time the impact of LPS on several neurobiological processes contributing to inflammation-induced emotional alterations, in particular the activation of the kynurenine pathway, assessed through the expression of its main enzymes, as well as concomitant impairment of serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Conclusion Altogether, this study provides important clues on how saffron extract interferes with brain function in conditions of immune stimulation and supports the relevance of saffron-based nutritional interventions to improve the management of inflammation-related comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Monchaux de Oliveira
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
- Activ’Inside, Beychac-et-Caillau, France
| | - Jennifer Morael
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alexandrine Guille
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Camille Amadieu
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sylvie Vancassel
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Lucile Capuron
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Nathalie Castanon
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Demir M, Altinoz E, Koca O, Elbe H, Onal MO, Bicer Y, Karayakali M. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of crocin on the doxorubicin mediated hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Tissue Cell 2023; 84:102182. [PMID: 37523948 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DXR) is widely used in cancer treatment. However, it has not yet been possible to prevent the side effects of DXR. The aim of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of crocin against DXR used in cancer treatment. For this reason; forty Wistar rats (male-250-300 g) were allocated into four groups (n = 10/group): Control, Crocin, DXR and DXR+Crocin. Control and Crocin groups were administered saline and crocin (40 mg/kg, i.p) for 15 days, respectively. DXR group, cumulative dose 12 mg/kg DXR, was administered for 12 days via 48 h intervals in six injections (2 mg/kg each, i.p). DXR+Crocin group, crocin (40 mg/kg-i.p) was administered for 15 days, and DXR was given as in the DXR group. The results revealed that serum liver markers (alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased significantly after DXR administration but recovered after crocin therapy. In addition, lipid peroxidation (MDA), and inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) increased after DXR application and the antioxidative defense system (GSH, SOD, CAT) significantly decreased and re-achieved by crocin treatment. Our results conclude that crocin treatment was related to ameliorated hepatocellular architecture and reduced hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in rats with DXR-induced hepatotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Demir
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey.
| | - E Altinoz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - O Koca
- Department of Biochemistry, Karabuk University Education and Research Hospital, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - H Elbe
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla Sıtkı Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - M O Onal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla Sıtkı Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Y Bicer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - M Karayakali
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Turan Ç, Şenormancı G, Neşelioğlu S, Budak Y, Erel Ö, Şenormancı Ö. Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Biomarkers in People with Methamphetamine Use Disorder. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 21:572-582. [PMID: 37424424 PMCID: PMC10335902 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.22.1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the blood serum levels of biomarkers specifying oxidative stress status and systemic inflammation between people using methamphetamine (METH) and the control group (CG). Serum thiol/disulfide balance and ischemia-modified albumin levels were studied to determine oxidative stress, and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and complete blood count (CBC) were to assess inflammation. Methods Fifty patients with METH use disorder (MUD) and 36 CG participants were included in the study. Two tubes of venous blood samples were taken to measure oxidative stress, serum thiol/disulfide balance, ischemia-modified albumin, and IL-6 levels between groups. The correlation of parameters measuring oxidative stress and inflammation between groups with sociodemographic data was investigated. Results In this study, serum total thiol, free thiol levels, disulfide/native thiol percentage ratios, and serum ischemia- modified albumin levels of the patients were statistically significantly higher than the healthy controls. No difference was observed between the groups in serum disulfide levels and serum IL-6 levels. Considering the regression analysis, only the duration of substance use was a statistically significant factor in explaining serum IL-6 levels. The parameters showing inflammation in the CBC were significantly higher in the patients than in the CG. Conclusion CBC can be used to evaluate systemic inflammation in patients with MUD. Parameters measuring thiol/disulfide homeostasis and ischemia-modified albumin can be, also, used to assess oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Çetin Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Güliz Şenormancı
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Salim Neşelioğlu
- Clinic of Clinical Biochemistry, Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Budak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Özcan Erel
- Clinic of Clinical Biochemistry, Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ömer Şenormancı
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Beykent, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abbaszade-Cheragheali A, Kakhki S, Khatibi SR, Hosseini M, Navari F, Beheshti F. Feeding crocin ameliorate cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress in rats. Inflammopharmacology 2023:10.1007/s10787-023-01250-9. [PMID: 37261629 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the current study was to investigate the probable mechanism and effect of crocin on brain oxidative damage and memory deficits induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups consisting of one vehicle group (received normal saline), four groups included rats who received UCMS 4 weeks out of which three groups were pretreated with different doses of crocin (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg/day) concomitantly. To assess the pure effect of crocin, the last experimental group received a high dose of crocin (30 mg/kg/day) without exposure to the UCMS procedure. The behavioral tests including Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance (PA) were performed and eventually they were sacrificed for the estimation of biochemical parameters. RESULTS The increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress indicator and nitrite levels in the hippocampus were observed in UCMS rats, along with memory deficits in behavioral tests including passive avoidance and Morris water maze (MWM) test. Moreover, treatment with crocin decreased MDA, nitrite, pro-inflammatory cytokine such as TNF-α, and pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease including amyloid-β (Aβ), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the hippocampus, whereas antioxidant agents including total thiol content, SOD, and catalase activity were increased. Also behavioral test demonstrated a positive effect of crocin on memory deficit induced by UCMS. Interlukin-10 as an important anti-inflammatory agent was increased as well. Interestingly, in some behavioral and biochemical findings, treatment with 30 mg/kg of crocin has given better results compared to vehicle group, which means the administration of crocin could have preventive effects on learning and memory impairment. CONCLUSION The present study strongly confirmed the positive effect of crocin and has the potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that could improve memory impairment induced by UCMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Abbaszade-Cheragheali
- Student Research Committee, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Neuroscience Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Departments of Physiology, School of Medicine, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Samaneh Kakhki
- Neuroscience Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Khatibi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hosseini
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Navari
- Imam Hossein Educational Hospital, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Farimah Beheshti
- Student Research Committee, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran.
- Neuroscience Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran.
- Departments of Physiology, School of Medicine, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Y, Sui Z, Wang M, Liu P. Natural products in attenuating renal inflammation via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome in diabetic kidney disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1196016. [PMID: 37215100 PMCID: PMC10196020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1196016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a prevalent and severe complications of diabetes and serves as the primary cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) globally. Increasing evidence indicates that renal inflammation is critical in the pathogenesis of DKD. The nucleotide - binding oligomerization domain (NOD) - like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is the most extensively researched inflammasome complex and is considered a crucial regulator in the pathogenesis of DKD. The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome is regulated by various signaling pathways, including NF- κB, thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), and non-coding RNAs (ncRNA), among others. Natural products are chemicals extracted from living organisms in nature, and they typically possess pharmacological and biological activities. They are invaluable sources for drug design and development. Research has demonstrated that many natural products can alleviate DKD by targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome. In this review, we highlight the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in DKD, and the pathways by which natural products fight against DKD via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, so as to provide novel insights for the treatment of DKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhun Sui
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mi Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Shunyi Hospital, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lafuente JV, Sharma A, Feng L, Muresanu DF, Nozari A, Tian ZR, Buzoianu AD, Sjöquist PO, Wiklund L, Sharma HS. Nanowired Delivery of Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Antioxidant Compound H-290/51 Reduces Exacerbation of Methamphetamine Neurotoxicity in Hot Environment. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 32:317-352. [PMID: 37480465 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32997-5_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Military personnel are often exposed to hot environments either for combat operations or peacekeeping missions. Hot environment is a severe stressful situation leading to profound hyperthermia, fatigue and neurological impairments. To avoid stressful environment, some people frequently use methamphetamine (METH) or other psychostimulants to feel comfortable under adverse situations. Our studies show that heat stress alone induces breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and edema formation associated with reduced cerebral blood flow (CBF). On the other hand, METH alone induces hyperthermia and neurotoxicity. These effects of METH are exacerbated at high ambient temperatures as seen with greater breakdown of the BBB and brain pathology. Thus, a combination of METH use at hot environment may further enhance the brain damage-associated behavioral dysfunctions. METH is well known to induce severe oxidative stress leading to brain pathology. In this investigation, METH intoxication at hot environment was examined on brain pathology and to explore suitable strategies to induce neuroprotection. Accordingly, TiO2-nanowired delivery of H-290/51 (150 mg/kg, i.p.), a potent chain-breaking antioxidant in combination with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), is investigated in attenuating METH-induced brain damage at hot environment in model experiments. Our results show that nanodelivery of H-290/51 with MSCs significantly enhanced CBF and reduced BBB breakdown, edema formation and brain pathology following METH exposure at hot environment. These observations are the first to point out that METH exacerbated brain pathology at hot environment probably due to enhanced oxidative stress, and MSCs attenuate these adverse effects, not reported earlier.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Vicente Lafuente
- LaNCE, Department Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Aruna Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Department of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lianyuan Feng
- Department of Neurology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Zhongshan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Dafin F Muresanu
- Department Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine & Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- "RoNeuro" Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ala Nozari
- Anesthesiology & Intensive Care, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Z Ryan Tian
- Department Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Anca D Buzoianu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Per-Ove Sjöquist
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Wiklund
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Department of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hari Shanker Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Department of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Boozari M, Hosseinzadeh H. Crocin molecular signaling pathways at a glance: A comprehensive review. Phytother Res 2022; 36:3859-3884. [PMID: 35989419 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Crocin is a hydrophilic carotenoid that is synthesized in the flowers of the Crocus genus. Numerous in vitro and in vivo research projects have been published about the biological and pharmacological properties and toxicity of crocin. Crocin acts as a memory enhancer, anxiolytic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant, neuroprotective, and so on. Here, we introduce an updated and comprehensive review of crocin molecular mechanisms based on previously examined and mentioned in the literature. Different studies confirmed the significant effect of crocin to control pathological conditions, including oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. The neuroprotective effect of crocin could be related to the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Notch, and cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein signaling pathways. The crocin also protects the cardiovascular system through the inhibitory effect on toll-like receptors. The regulatory effect of crocin on PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMP-activated protein kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor pathways can play an effective role in the treatment of metabolic disorders. The crocin has anticancer activity through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, vascular endothelial growth factor, Wnt/β-catenin, and Janus kinases-signal transducer and activator of transcription suppression. Also, the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and p53 signaling pathway activation may be effective in the anticancer effect of crocin. Finally, among signaling pathways regulated by crocin, the most important ones seem to be those related to the regulatory effect on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Boozari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shahbaz K, Chang D, Zhou X, Low M, Seto SW, Li CG. Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:825842. [PMID: 35991882 PMCID: PMC9388830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.825842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Shahbaz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Sai Wang Seto
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Reserach Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
GLP-1 mediates the neuroprotective action of crocin against cigarette smoking-induced cognitive disorders via suppressing HMGB1-RAGE/TLR4-NF-κB pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:108995. [PMID: 35785730 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette smoking (CS) has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive disorders. Although HMGB1 has been connected to various neurological ailments, its role in the pathogenesis of CS-induced cognitive impairments is undefined. With the ability of GLP-1 to lower HMGB1 expression and improve learning and memory performance, we sought to assess the potential neuroprotective efficacy of Crocin (Cro) as a GLP-1 stimulator against CS-induced cognitive impairments, with a focus on the HMGB1-RAGE/TLR4-NF-κB pathway. Fifty adult rats were specified into: Control; Cro (30 mg/kg); CS; Cro then CS and CS concurrently with Cro. Cognitive functions were assessed by MWM, EMP, and passive avoidance tests. Hippocampal levels of GLP-1, HMGB1, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic markers were detected using ELISA, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Hippocampal oxidant/antioxidant status was evaluated via colorimetric determination of MDA and TAC. The results revealed that Cro either before or along with CS produced a significant improvement in learning and memory. Cro markedly hindered HMGB1-RAGE/TLR4-NF-κB pathway through enhancing GLP-1 level and expression, which in turn suppressed TNF-α and IL-1β levels and alleviated CS-induced neuroinflammation. Cro significantly counteracted CS-triggered oxidative stress as evidenced by reducing MDA level and raising TAC. Histopathologically, Cro lessened neuronal apoptosis by lowering Bax/Bcl-2 ratio at hippocampal CA2 region. These findings confirmed a GLP-1-dependent neuroprotective action of Cro against CS-induced cognitive disorders via suppressing HMGB1-RAGE/TLR4-NF-κB axis.
Collapse
|
17
|
Scuto M, Modafferi S, Rampulla F, Zimbone V, Tomasello M, Spano’ S, Ontario M, Palmeri A, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, Di Paola R, Cuzzocrea S, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Redox modulation of stress resilience by Crocus Sativus L. for potential neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory applications in brain disorders: From molecular basis to therapy. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 205:111686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
18
|
Zeng Y, Chen Y, Zhang S, Ren H, Xia J, Liu M, Shan B, Ren Y. Natural Products in Modulating Methamphetamine-Induced Neuronal Apoptosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:805991. [PMID: 35058785 PMCID: PMC8764133 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.805991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH), an amphetamine-type psychostimulant, is highly abused worldwide. Chronic abuse of METH causes neurodegenerative changes in central dopaminergic neurons with numerous neuropsychiatric consequences. Neuronal apoptosis plays a critical role in METH-induced neurotoxicity and may provide promising pharmacological targets for preventing and treating METH addiction. In recent years, accumulating evidence has revealed that natural products may possess significant potentials to inhibit METH-evoked neuronal apoptosis. In this review, we summarized and analyzed the improvement effect of natural products on METH-induced neuronal apoptosis and their potential molecular mechanisms on modulating dopamine release, oxidative stress, mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptotic pathway, and neuroinflammation. Hopefully, this review may highlight the potential value of natural products in modulating METH-caused neuronal apoptosis and provide useful information for future research and developments of novel and efficacious pharmacotherapies in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Zeng
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunhui Chen
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Su Zhang
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huan Ren
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jialin Xia
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengnan Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baozhi Shan
- School of Humanities, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Yulan Ren
- College of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, College of Basic Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Chinese Classics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Farhadi L, Hojati V, Khaksari M, Vaezi G. Neuroprotective Effects of Crocin Against Ethanol Neurotoxicity in the Animal Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:1001-1011. [PMID: 35040027 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03501-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Several experimental and clinical findings suggest that ethanol consumption during pregnancy activates an oxidative-inflammatory cascade followed by wide apoptotic neurodegeneration within several brain areas, including the hippocampus. Crocin can protect neurons because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. This study evaluated the crocin protective impact on ethanol-related neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus of rat pups exposed to alcohol over postnatal days. Ethanol (5.25 g/kg) was administrated in milk solution (27.8 ml/kg) by intragastric intubation 2-10 days after birth. The animals received crocin (15, 30, and 45 mg/kg) 2-10 days after birth. The hippocampus-dependent memory and spatial learning were evaluated 36 days after birth using the Morris water maze task. Further, the concentrations of TNF-α and antioxidant enzymes were determined using ELISA assay to examine the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Also, immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1(Iba-1), and caspase-3 expression. The administration of crocin significantly attenuated spatial memory impairment (P < 0.01) after ethanol neurotoxicity. Also, crocin led to a significant enhancement in SOD (P < 0.05) and GSH-PX (P < 0.01), whereas it caused a reduction in the TNF-α and MDA concentrations compared to the ethanol group (P < 0.01). Moreover, the hippocampal level of caspase-3 (P < 0.01) and the number of GFAP and Iba-1-positive cells decreased in the crocin group (P < 0.001). Crocin suppresses apoptotic signaling mediated by the oxidative-inflammatory cascade in rat pups exposed to ethanol after birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lida Farhadi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Vida Hojati
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| | - Golamhassan Vaezi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Evaluation of the Effect of Crocin on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1328:143-153. [PMID: 34981476 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-73234-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite newer advances in cancer treatment, chemotherapy is still one of the most widely used treatment strategies in this field. However, this treatment strategy faces major challenges. Doxorubicin (Dox) is an effective chemotherapeutic agent used to treat various cancers. However, several studies have shown that the use of Dox in therapeutic concentrations is associated with serious side effects, such as cardiac toxicity. The use of natural products in combination with chemotherapeutic agents to reduce side effects is a novel approach, and several studies have shown promising results. In this regard, we examined the effect of Crocin on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rat and H9c2 cell line. The in vitro model on H9C2 cells and the in vivo models on rats were treated with doxorubicin. Cell viability, DNA damage, and apoptosis were measured in H9C2 cell line in the presence and absence of Crocin. Oxidative stress and various inflammatory parameters, as well as cardiac function tests, also were assessed in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity animal model in the presence and absence of Crocin. Our results showed that Crocin can significantly decrease apoptosis in H9C2 cell line through a reduction in ROS production and DNA damages. Moreover, evaluation of the effect of Crocin on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity animal model showed that Crocin also can significantly reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters in the serum of the animals. Assessment of cardiac function revealed that Crocin has a significant protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in the animal model. Our data indicate that Crocin significantly attenuated doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Hence, Crocin could be potentially used as an adjuvant treatment in combination with Dox to reduce cardiotoxicity.
Collapse
|
21
|
Shi S, Chen T, Zhao M. The Crosstalk Between Neurons and Glia in Methamphetamine-Induced Neuroinflammation. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:872-884. [PMID: 34982394 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03513-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH), an illicit psycho-stimulant, is widely known as an addictive drug that may cause neurotoxic effects. Previous researches on METH abuse have mainly focused on neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and glutamate. However, there is growing evidence that neuroinflammation also plays an important role in the etiology and pathophysiology of brain dysfunction induced by METH abuse. This has cast a spotlight on the research of microglia and astrocyte, which are critical mediators of neuroimmune pathology in recent years. In the central nervous system (CNS) immunity, abnormalities of the microglia and astrocytes have been observed in METH abusers from both postmortem and preclinical studies. The bidirectional communication between neurons and glia is essential for the homeostasis and biological function of the CNS while activation of glia induces the release of cytokines and chemokines during pathological conditions, which will affect the neuron-glia interactions and lead to adverse behavioral consequences. However, the underlying mechanisms of interaction between neurons and glia in METH-induced neuroinflammation remain elusive. Notably, discovering and further understanding glial activity and functions, as well as the crosstalk between neurons and glia may help to explain the pathogenesis of METH abuse and behavioral changes in abusers. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of the crosstalk between neurons and glia in METH-induced neuroinflammation. We also review the existing microglia-astrocyte interaction under METH exposure. We hope the present review will lead the way for more studies on the development of new therapeutic strategies for METH abuse in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sai Shi
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 South Wan Ping Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Tianzhen Chen
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 South Wan Ping Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 South Wan Ping Road, Shanghai, 200030, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China. .,CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology (CEBSIT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
He T, Li N, Shi P, Xu X, Nie J, Lu X, Yu P, Fan Y, Ge F, Guan X. Electroacupuncture alleviates spatial memory deficits in METH withdrawal mice by enhancing astrocyte-mediated glutamate clearance in the dCA1. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13068. [PMID: 34128302 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) elicits endogenous glutamate (Glu) in the brain, which could partially explain METH-induced memory deficits. Here, we investigated the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on spatial memory deficits in METH withdrawal mice and its potential synaptic mechanisms. We found that EA at acupoints 'Baihui' and 'Yintang' ameliorated the impaired spatial memory in METH withdrawal mice. In parallel, EA attenuated the Glu levels in vivo and suppressed the neuronal activities within dCA1 of METH withdrawal mice, as indicated by the decreasing c-Fos levels and the amplitude of mEPSP. In the dCA1, EA decreased A1-like astrocytes but increased astrocytic glutamatergic transporting molecules including glutamate transporter 1 and glutamine synthase. However, EA seemed to have no effects on presynaptic Glu transmission from the dCA3, as evidenced by the similiar levels of c-Fos in the dCA3 neurons, synaptic vesicular markers of dCA3 neural terminals and values of paired-pulse ratio in the dCA1 neurons between EA-treated and sham EA-treated METH withdrawal mice. These findings suggest that EA might normalize the dCA1 Glu levels at least in part through enhancing astrocyte-mediated Glu clearance. Taken together, astrocytes might be a novel target for developing therapeutic interventions against the impaired memory behaviours in METH users, and EA represents a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy for the management of drug-caused memory deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teng He
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Nanqin Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Pengbo Shi
- Department of Orthopedics The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Jiaxun Nie
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Xue Lu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Peiyao Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine Daegu Haany University Gyeongsan South Korea
| | - Feifei Ge
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| | - Xiaowei Guan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Nanjing China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fucoxanthin alleviates methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity possibly via the inhibition of interaction between Keap1 and Nrf2. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
|
24
|
Electroacupuncture Synergistically Inhibits Proinflammatory Cytokine Production and Improves Cognitive Function in Rats with Cognitive Impairment due to Hepatic Encephalopathy through p38MAPK/STAT3 and TLR4/NF- κB Signaling Pathways. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:7992688. [PMID: 34630618 PMCID: PMC8500758 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7992688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on cognitive dysfunction in rats with hepatic encephalopathy and its underlying mechanism. Methods Fifty Wistar rats were randomly divided into a normal group (n = 10) and model group (n = 40). Rat models of hepatic encephalopathy were established by administration of carbon tetrachloride and thioacetamide for a total of 12 weeks. At the 9th week after modeling, rats with cognitive impairment in the model group were identified by conducting the Morris water maze test, which were then randomly divided into a control group (CCl4) and treatment groups including EA group (CCl4 + EA), lactulose group (CCl4 + Lac), and EA plus lactulose group (CCl4 + CM), with 9 rats in each group. At the end of the 9th week, rats in CCl4 + Lac and CCl4 + CM groups had lactulose gavage at a dose of 10 mL/kg body weight, while normal control and CCl4 groups had gavage with the same volume of normal saline once a day for 21 days until the end of the experiment. Rats in CCl4 + EA and CCl4 + CM groups underwent acupuncture at Baihui (GV[DU]20), Shenting (GV[DU]24), and Zusanli (ST36) acupoints, among which EA at Baihui and Shenting acupoints were given once daily for 30 min lasting for 21 consecutive days. The effect of the treatment was measured by the Morris water maze test for learning and memory ability and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for neuronal metabolism in the hippocampus of rats with hepatic encephalopathy. Pathological change in the rat hippocampus was observed by HE staining, while serum ammonia and liver function markers were detected. Western blot and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR were used to detect the expressions of specific genes and proteins in the brain tissue. Results Compared with those in the control group, rats undergoing EA had significantly shortened escape latency and increased number of platform crossing. H&E staining confirmed that EA improved brain tissue necrosis and ameliorated nuclear pyknosis in rats with hepatic encephalopathy. Significantly decreased levels of serum ammonia, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), total bilirubin (TBil), and total bile acid (TBA) were observed in rats undergoing EA, as well as improved levels of total protein (TP) and albumin (ALB). In addition, EA inhibited the brain expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, iNOS, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, p38MAPK, phosphorylated (p)-p38MAPK, STAT3, and p-STAT3 genes, as well as protein expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, p38MAPK, p-p38MAPK, STAT3, and p-STAT3. MRS showed increased Glx/Cr and decreased NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and mI/Cr in the control group, and EA significantly reversed such changes in Glx/Cr and mI/Cr values. Conclusion EA ameliorated the production of excessive proinflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus of rats with cognitive dysfunction secondary to hepatic encephalopathy, which also gave rise to subsequent changes such as reduced blood ammonia level, brain-protective activated astrocytes, and lower degree of brain tissue injury. The p38MAPK/STAT3 and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathways may be involved. EA can also improve the metabolism of NAA and Cho in the rat hippocampus and thereby improve learning and memory abilities.
Collapse
|
25
|
Gao X, Xu Y. Therapeutic Effects of Natural Compounds and Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:745011. [PMID: 34540853 PMCID: PMC8440892 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.745011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, characterized by progressive cognitive impairment and memory loss. So far, the pathogenesis of AD has not been fully understood. Research have shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) participate in the occurrence and development of AD. Furthermore, various studies, both in vivo and in vitro, have shown that targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis contribute to the recovery of AD. Thus, targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis may be effective for treating AD. In this review, the molecular mechanism of ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis, as well as the therapeutic effects of some natural compounds and small molecule inhibitors targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis in AD will be introduced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xun Gao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang L, Jing M, Liu Q. Crocin alleviates the inflammation and oxidative stress responses associated with diabetic nephropathy in rats via NLRP3 inflammasomes. Life Sci 2021; 278:119542. [PMID: 33915128 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM Currently, drugs for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN) are lacking. This study aimed to explore the protective effect of crocin on DN. MAIN METHODS Diabetes was induced in rats by streptozotocin (STZ), and changes in metabolism and renal parameters after crocin treatment were measured. Dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence and superoxide generation were used to detect the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rat renal tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure changes inflammation-related factors with crocin treatment. In addition, the expression of Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway components was detected by western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. KEY FINDINGS Crocin lowered blood sugar, increased serum insulin levels, and improved diabetes-related symptoms, including kidney dysfunction. Masson trichrome staining revealed that crocin could improve renal tissue fibrosis caused by hyperglycemia. Moreover, crocin inhibited ROS production in renal tissues and generally inhibited the production of the proinflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18. Crocin exerted these functions by inhibiting the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome in DN rats. SIGNIFICANCE Crocin alleviates DN related oxidative stress and inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasomes. Our results provide a new target for the treatment of DN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linjuan Zhang
- Department of Nephropathy and Rheumatology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang 471000, Henan, China.
| | - Mengmeng Jing
- Department of Nephropathy and Rheumatology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang 471000, Henan, China
| | - Quan Liu
- Department of Nephropathy and Rheumatology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang 471000, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Roustazade R, Radahmadi M, Yazdani Y. Therapeutic effects of saffron extract on different memory types, anxiety, and hippocampal BDNF and TNF-α gene expressions in sub-chronically stressed rats. Nutr Neurosci 2021; 25:192-206. [PMID: 34165393 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2021.1943138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Objective: While stress reportedly impairs memory, saffron enhances it. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of saffron extract on different memory types, anxiety-like behavior, and expressions of BDNF and TNF-α genes in sub-chronically stressed rats.Methods: Rats were randomly assigned to control, restraint stress (6 h/day/7 days), two 7-days saffron treatments with 30 and 60 mg/kg, and two stress-saffron groups (30 and 60 mg/kg/7 post-stress days). Serum cortisol level and hippocampal BDNF and TNF-α gene expressions were measured. Open field, passive avoidance, novel object recognition, and object location tests were performed to assess anxiety-like behavior and avoidance as well as cognitive and spatial memories, respectively.Results: The low saffron dose in the sub-chronic stressed group led to a significant increase in passive avoidance latency from day 3 onward whereas this effect was observed after 7 days under the high-dose treatment that simultaneously led to a significant decline in serum cortisol level. While the low saffron dose led to a sharp drop in hippocampal TNF-α gene expression, the high dose significantly increased the hippocampal BDNF gene expression in the sub-chronic stress group. Finally, both saffron doses reduced anxiety in the stressed groups.Conclusion: Compared to the low saffron dose, the high dose had a latent but long-lasting impact. Cognitive and spatial memories remained unaffected by either stress or saffron treatment. In addition, only the high saffron dose reversed anxiety in the sub-chronically stressed group. These findings suggest that various doses of saffron act differently on different brain functions under sub-chronic stress conditions.Abbreviations: Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), novel object recognition task (NORT), novel object location task (NOLT), open field test (OFT), passive avoidance (PA).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roshanak Roustazade
- Medical Students' Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Radahmadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Yazdani
- Medical Students' Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Song YN, Wang Y, Zheng YH, Liu TL, Zhang C. Crocins: A comprehensive review of structural characteristics, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effects. Fitoterapia 2021; 153:104969. [PMID: 34147548 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2021.104969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Crocins, as a kind of water-soluble carotenoid pigment, are a series of ester compounds formed from crocetin and gentibiose or glucose, and mainly distributed among Crocus sativus L. (CSL), Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. (GJE). Crocins exhibit a wide range of pharmacological effects on neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, depression, liver disease, arthritis, tumor, diabetes, etc. This review systematically discussed the pharmacologic study of crocins in the aspect of structural characteristic and pharmacokinetics, and summarized the mechanism of treating disease. It summarized the abundant research of crocins from 1984 to 2020 based on the above aspects, which provide a reference for the deeply development and application of crocins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Song
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271016, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ying-Hao Zheng
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | | | - Cun Zhang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mohseni F, Garmabi B, Khaksari M. Apelin-13 attenuates spatial memory impairment by anti-oxidative, anti-apoptosis, and anti-inflammatory mechanism against ethanol neurotoxicity in the neonatal rat hippocampus. Neuropeptides 2021; 87:102130. [PMID: 33640615 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It has been shown that alcohol consumption by pregnant women can have detrimental effects on the developing fetus and lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Exposure to alcohol in rat pups during this period causes long-term changes in the structure of the animal's hippocampus, leading to impaired hippocampal-related brain functions such as navigation tasks and spatial memory. Apelin-13, a principal neuropeptide with inhibitory effects on neuroinflammation and brain oxidative stress production, has beneficial properties on memory impairment and neuronal injury. The protective effects of apelin-13 have been evaluated on ethanol-related neurotoxicity in the hippocampus of rat pups. Rat pups from 2 until 10 postnatal day, similar to the third trimester of pregnancy in humans, were intubated total daily dose of ethanol (5/27 g/kg/day). Immediately after intubation, 25 and 50 μg/ kg of apelin-13 was injected subcutaneously. By using Morris water maze task, the hippocampus- dependent memory and spatial learning were evaluated 36 days after birth. Then, Immunohistochemical staining was done to determine the levels of GFAP and caspase-3. ELISA assay was also performed to measure both TNF-α and antioxidant enzymes levels. The current study demonstrates that administration of apelin-13 attenuates spatial memory impairment significantly (P < 0.001). After ethanol neurotoxicity, apelin-13 could also increase the catalase level (P < 0.001), activity of total superoxide dismutase as well as glutathione concentration noticeably (P < 0.05). Other impacts of it could be mentioned as attenuating TNF-α production and also preventing lipid peroxidation (P < 0.001). In addition, the results showed that the level of GFAP as a neuroinflammation factor and the number of active caspase-3 positive cells can be decreased by apelin-13 (P < 0.01). Regarding the protective effects of apelin-13 against ethanol-induced neurotoxicity, it is a promising therapeutic choice for FASD; but more studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Mohseni
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Behzad Garmabi
- Study and Treatment of Circadian Rhythms Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Simvastatin attenuates spatial memory impairment via inhibiting microgliosis and apoptotic cell death against ethanol induced neurotoxicity in the developing rat hippocampus. Brain Res 2021; 1758:147341. [PMID: 33548270 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol is associated with oxidative stress. Exposure to ethanol during childhood may lead to neurological disorders. Congenital disorders induced by alcohol are mainly caused by an oxidative-inflammatory cascade due to extensive apoptotic neurodegeneration in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus. Simvastatin, which acts as an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA), is widely used to manage cardiovascular diseases. Recently, the neuroprotective effects of simvastatin against nervous system disorders have been introduced. In this study, we examined the protective effects of simvastatin on ethanol-related neurotoxicity in the hippocampus of rat pups. Ethanol (5.27 g/kg) in a milk solution (27.8 mL/kg) was administered to male rat pups via intragastric intubation at 2-10 days after birth. Also, 10 and 20 mg/kg of simvastatin were injected to the animals. By using Morris water maze task, the hippocampus-dependent memory and spatial learning was evaluated 36 days after birth. An ELISA assay was performed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of simvastatin by measuring the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and antioxidant enzymes. To assess the expression levels of Iba1 immunohistochemical staining and caspase-3 immunofluorescence staining was performed. The current study demonstrated that administration of simvastatin significantly attenuates spatial memory impairment (P < 0.01) after ethanol neurotoxicity. Also simvastatin could considerably increase the total superoxide dismutaseand glutathione levels (P < 0.01). Moreover, it was associated with a greater reduction in malondialdehyde (P < 0.05) and TNF-α levels, compared to the ethanol group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, in the simvastatin group, the hippocampal level of caspase-3 and the level of Iba1-positive cells, reduced (P < 0.01). This study demonstrated that apoptotic signaling, mediated by the oxidative-inflammatory cascade, could be inhibited by simvastatin in rat pups with ethanol exposure in the postnatal period.
Collapse
|
31
|
Rafaiee R, Khastar H, Garmabi B, Taleb M, Norouzi P, Khaksari M. Hydrogen sulfide protects hippocampal CA1 neurons against lead mediated neuronal damage via reduction oxidative stress in male rats. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 112:101917. [PMID: 33444772 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2020.101917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
H2S plays vital roles in modulation brain function. It is associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We assessed the H2S impact on spatial learning and memory deficit and cell death due to lead exposure, and probable mechanisms of action. The 36 male Wistar rats that (200-220 g), were in random assigned to 3 groups, control group (12 rats), lead acetate group (12 rats), and lead acetate +H2S groups (NaHS as a H2S donor; 5/6 mg/kg; 12 rats). Administration of lead to rats was performed through acute lead poisoning (25 mg/kg of lead acetate, IP through 3 days). Using male Morris water maze, their spatial learning and memory function were measured. We carried out ELISA method to calculate TNF-α and antioxidant enzymes level. Immunohistochemical staining was applied for evaluating the caspase-3 expression levels. Treatment with H2S improved learning and memory impairment in Pb-exposed rats (P<0.05). H2S treatment suppressed Pb-related apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 subfield (P<0.01). Also, the TNF-α over-expression in the CA1 region of hippocampus due to lead exposure showed a significant reduction (P<0.05) after administrating H2S. Simultaneously, H2S treatment reduced the MDA levels, enhanced SOD, GSH level than the Pb-exposed group in hippocampus (P<0.05). H2S was able to significantly improve Pb-related spatial learning and memory deficit, and neuronal cell death in the CA1 region of hippocampus in the male rats at least partly by reducing oxidative stress and TNF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Rafaiee
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Research Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Hosein Khastar
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Behzad Garmabi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Malihe Taleb
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud Universityof Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Pirasteh Norouzi
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ahmadi S, Nabiuni M, Tahmaseb M, Amini E. Enhanced Neural Differentiation of Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cell by Synergistic Effect of Lithium carbonate and Crocin on BDNF and GDNF Expression as Neurotrophic Factors. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2021; 20:95-106. [PMID: 34567149 PMCID: PMC8457715 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2019.15561.13176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are incurable and debilitating conditions that result in progressive degeneration of nerve cells. Due to the complexity of conditions in neurodegenerative diseases, combination therapy, including cell and drug therapy is important as a new therapeutic strategy. Epidermal neural crest stem cells (EPI-NCSCs) are among the best choices in cell therapy for various neurological diseases. In this study, the effect of Lithium carbonate and Crocin, considering their effects on cellular signaling pathways and neuroprotective properties were investigated on the expression of neurotrophic factors BDNF and GDNF in EPI-NCSCs. EPI-NCSCs were isolated from the hair follicle and treated with different concentrations of drugs [Lithium, Crocin, and lithium + Crocin] for 72h. Then, trial concentrations were selected by MTT assay. The cells were treated with selected concentrations (Lithium 1 mM, Crocin 1.5 mM, and for co-treatment Lithium 1 mM and Crocin 1 mM) for 7 days. The Real-Time PCR results indicated an increasing in expression of BDNF and GDNF in treated cells as compared with control (* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01 and *** p < 0.001). The results in this study confirmed and supported the neuroprotective/neurogenesis effects of Lithium and Crocin. It also showed that the proposed protocol could be used to increase EPI-NCSCs differentiation potential into neural cells in cell therapy and combination therapy of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Ahmadi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Tahmaseb
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Elaheh Amini
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Erfani S, Valadbeigi T, Aboutaleb N, Karimi N, Moghimi A, Khaksari M. Usnic acid improves memory impairment after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injuries by anti-neuroinflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2020; 23:1225-1231. [PMID: 32963745 PMCID: PMC7491502 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2020.43280.10165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective(s): Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion causes complex pathological mechanisms that lead to brain tissue damage. Usnic acid is a lichen secondary metabolite that has many different biological properties including anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of usnic acid on apoptotic cell death, neuroinflammation, anti-oxidant enzyme activities, and oxidative stress levels after transient cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. Materials and Methods: Forty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups (sham, ischemia/reperfusion, and ischemia/reperfusion+usnic acid). Ischemia was induced by 20 min occlusion of common carotid arteries. Injection of usnic acid (25 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) and saline was done at the beginning of reperfusion time. Morris water maze was applied to assess spatial memory. The protein expression amount was measured using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. Spectrophotometric assay was performed to determine the levels of anti-oxidant enzymes. Results: Usnic acid significantly reduced caspase-3, glial fibrillary acidic protein- positive and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1-positive cells (P<0.001) and enhanced spatial memory disorders (P<0.05) due to brain ischemia. In addition, treatment with usnic acid improves effects in the antioxidant system following cerebral ischemia (P<0.05). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that usnic acid has neuroprotective properties, which possibly is applicable as a promising candidate for cerebral injuries caused by ischemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sohaila Erfani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran
| | | | - Nahid Aboutaleb
- Physiology Research Center and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Karimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University of Kermanshah, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ali Moghimi
- Rayan Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kermanshahi S, Ghanavati G, Abbasi-Mesrabadi M, Gholami M, Ulloa L, Motaghinejad M, Safari S. Novel Neuroprotective Potential of Crocin in Neurodegenerative Disorders: An Illustrated Mechanistic Review. Neurochem Res 2020; 45:2573-2585. [PMID: 32940861 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-020-03134-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequently oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis that contribute to neuronal cytotoxicity and degeneration. Recent studies reported that crocin, a carotenoid chemical compound common in crocus and gardenia flowers, has protective effects in neurodegenerative disorders due to its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties in the nervous system. This article reviews the new experimental, clinical, and pharmacological studies on the neuroprotective properties of crocin and its potential mechanisms to modulate metabolic oxidative stress and inflammation in neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Kermanshahi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazal Ghanavati
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Abbasi-Mesrabadi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Gholami
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Safari
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hashemzaei M, Mamoulakis C, Tsarouhas K, Georgiadis G, Lazopoulos G, Tsatsakis A, Shojaei Asrami E, Rezaee R. Crocin: A fighter against inflammation and pain. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 143:111521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
36
|
Yuan Y, Shan X, Men W, Zhai H, Qiao X, Geng L, Li C. The effect of crocin on memory, hippocampal acetylcholine level, and apoptosis in a rat model of cerebral ischemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 130:110543. [PMID: 32738637 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the memory- improving effect of crocin has been suggested by previous evidences, the association between this effect and hippocampal acetylcholine (Ach) level and apoptosis is not well investigated. This study aimed to determine the protective effects of crocin on memory, hippocampal Ach level, and apoptosis in a rat model of cerebral ischemia. Male Wistar rats were divided into sham group received saline, and other 3 groups underwent 4-vessel occlusion brain ischemia (4VOI), received oral administration of either saline or crocin in doses of 30 mg/day and 60 mg/day for 7 days. Outcomes were memory, determined by radial eight-arm maze (RAM) task and Morris water maze (MWM) test, Ach release in the dorsal hippocampus (evaluated by microdialysis-HPLC) and apoptosis (investigated by TUNEL assay). 4VOI impaired memory reduced dorsal hippocampus Ach level, and induced apoptosis. Crocin, significantly improved the memory (F = 343.20; P < 0.001 for RAM error choices and F = 182.5; P < 0.0001 for MWM), increased Ach level (F = 115.1; P < 0.001) and prevented hippocampal neuronal apoptosis (W = 183.50; P < 0.001) as compared statistically by ANOVA test. Crocin can be suggested as a promising therapy for ischemic cerebrovascular accidents by its memory preserving, Ach-increasing, and neuroprotective effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Yuan
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Xiaosong Shan
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Weidong Men
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Hexin Zhai
- Emergency Department, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Xiaoxia Qiao
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Lianting Geng
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Chunhui Li
- Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zare Mehrjerdi F, Niknazar S, Yadegari M, Akbari FA, Pirmoradi Z, Khaksari M. Carvacrol reduces hippocampal cell death and improves learning and memory deficits following lead-induced neurotoxicity via antioxidant activity. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2020; 393:1229-1237. [PMID: 32303785 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01866-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carvacrol is a monoterpene with neuroprotective effects in several animal models of neurodegeneration, including epilepsy, ischemia, and traumatic neuronal events. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of carvacrol on neurodegeneration induced by lead acetate in rats. A total of 50 male Wistar rats were divided into five equal groups. The control group received drinking water, while the neurotoxic group was exposed to 500 ppm of lead acetate in drinking water for 40 days. The three remaining groups, which were also exposed to 500 ppm of lead acetate, received carvacrol at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg orally for 40 days. The Morris water maze test was employed to examine spatial learning and memory. Pathological damage to the hippocampus was determined by Nissl staining. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were detected using biochemical analysis and the free radical scavenging activity as evaluated by the DPPH test. Administration of carvacrol significantly restored learning and memory impairment induced by lead acetate. Moreover, carvacrol ameliorated neurodegeneration, antioxidative capacity, and lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus of rats exposed to lead. The present results provide a rationale for the inhibitory role of carvacrol in the attenuation of lead-induced neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Zare Mehrjerdi
- Neurobiomedical Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Somayeh Niknazar
- Hearing Disorders Research Center, Loghman Hakim Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Yadegari
- Neurobiomedical Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ali Akbari
- Neurobiomedical Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Zeynab Pirmoradi
- Neurobiomedical Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Beneficial Effects of Crocin against Depression via Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:3903125. [PMID: 32685478 PMCID: PMC7334775 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3903125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Depression is one of the foremost psychological illness, and the exact mechanism is unclear. Recent studies have reported that the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) signaling pathway is involved in the progression of depression. In the present study, we extracted crocin from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, to evaluate its antidepressant effect and clarify the underlying mechanism. Here, we established a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mouse model to assess whether crocin can improve depression-like behavior in an open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST), forced swimming test (FST), and sucrose preference test (SPT). A corticosterone (CORT) model of PC12 was set up to explore the antidepressant mechanism of crocin. We pretreated PC12 cells with crocin for 1 hour and then stimulated the cells with CORT for 24 hours. Cell survival was detected by Hoechst staining and MTT assay. The expression of PACAP, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding protein (CREB), and extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) were analyzed by western blotting. PACAP RNAi was used to interfere with PC12 cells to downregulate the content of PACAP. The results showed that crocin (30 mg/kg) significantly reversed the decrease of body weight and elevation of serum CORT, mitigated CUMS induced depression-like behaviors of mice, and crocin (12.5 μmol/L) protected PC12 cells against CORT (200 μmol/L)-induced injury. Furthermore, crocin greatly increased the protein expression of PACAP and phosphorylation of ERK and CREB in the CORT model. PACAP RNAi cancelled the neuroprotective effect of crocin. In conclusion, these results indicated that crocin exerted an antidepressant effect via upregulating PACAP and its downstream ERK and CREB signaling pathways.
Collapse
|
39
|
Neuroprotective effect of crocin against rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease in rats: Interplay between PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and enhanced expression of miRNA-7 and miRNA-221. Neuropharmacology 2020; 164:107900. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
40
|
Sousa NA, Oliveira GAL, de Oliveira AP, Lopes ALF, Iles B, Nogueira KM, Araújo TSL, Souza LKM, Araújo AR, Ramos-Jesus J, Plácido A, Amaral C, Campelo YDM, Barbosa EA, Portugal CC, Socodato R, Lobo A, Relvas J, Bemquerer M, Eaton P, Leite JRSA, Medeiros JVR. Novel Ocellatin Peptides Mitigate LPS-induced ROS Formation and NF-kB Activation in Microglia and Hippocampal Neurons. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2696. [PMID: 32060388 PMCID: PMC7021831 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59665-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous secretions of amphibians have bioactive compounds, such as peptides, with potential for biotechnological applications. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the primary structure and investigate peptides obtained from the cutaneous secretions of the amphibian, Leptodactylus vastus, as a source of bioactive molecules. The peptides obtained possessed the amino acid sequences, GVVDILKGAAKDLAGH and GVVDILKGAAKDLAGHLASKV, with monoisotopic masses of [M + H]± = 1563.8 Da and [M + H]± = 2062.4 Da, respectively. The molecules were characterized as peptides of the class of ocellatins and were named as Ocellatin-K1(1-16) and Ocellatin-K1(1-21). Functional analysis revealed that Ocellatin-K1(1-16) and Ocellatin-K1(1-21) showed weak antibacterial activity. However, treatment of mice with these ocellatins reduced the nitrite and malondialdehyde content. Moreover, superoxide dismutase enzymatic activity and glutathione concentration were increased in the hippocampus of mice. In addition, Ocellatin-K1(1-16) and Ocellatin-K1(1-21) were effective in impairing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and NF-kB activation in living microglia. We incubated hippocampal neurons with microglial conditioned media treated with LPS and LPS in the presence of Ocellatin-K1(1-16) and Ocellatin-K1(1-21) and observed that both peptides reduced the oxidative stress in hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, these ocellatins demonstrated low cytotoxicity towards erythrocytes. These functional properties suggest possible to neuromodulatory therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayara A Sousa
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A L Oliveira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Ana Patrícia de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - André Luís F Lopes
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Bruno Iles
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Kerolayne M Nogueira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Thiago S L Araújo
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil.,Instituto de Educação Superior do Vale do Parnaíba, FAHESP/IESVAP/NRE, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Luan K M Souza
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil.,Instituto de Educação Superior do Vale do Parnaíba, FAHESP/IESVAP/NRE, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Alyne R Araújo
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Piauí, UFPI, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Joilson Ramos-Jesus
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Piauí, UFPI, Piauí, Brazil.,Instituto de Educação Superior do Vale do Parnaíba, FAHESP/IESVAP/NRE, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Alexandra Plácido
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde and Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Constança Amaral
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, IMM, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Yuri D M Campelo
- Instituto de Educação Superior do Vale do Parnaíba, FAHESP/IESVAP/NRE, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Eder Alves Barbosa
- Laboratório de Síntese e Análise de Biomoléculas, LSAB, Instituto de Química, UnB, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Camila C Portugal
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Renato Socodato
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andrea Lobo
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joao Relvas
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Peter Eaton
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, IMM, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Roberto S A Leite
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Morfologia e Imunonologia Aplicada, NuPMIA, Área Morfologia, Faculdade de Medicina, UnB, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Jand Venes R Medeiros
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Inflamação e Doenças Gastrintestinais, Universidade Federal do Delta do Parnaíba, UFDPar, Piauí, Brazil. .,Núcleo de Pesquisa em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Piauí, UFPI, Piauí, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mohseni F, Bagheri F, Khaksari M. Hydrogen Sulfide Attenuates the Neurotoxicity in the Animal Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Neurotox Res 2020; 37:977-986. [PMID: 31900896 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-019-00152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), which is caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, can result in cell death in specific brain regions. Alcohol-induced neurocognitive defects offspring's are included with activation of oxidative-inflammatory cascade followed with wide apoptotic neurodegeneration in many brain's regions such as hippocampus. According to the latest studies, H2S (hydrogen sulfide) can protect neuronal cells via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms in different animal models. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the protective effects of H2S on ethanol-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis in pup hippocampus with postnatal alcohol exposure. Administration of ethanol (5.27 g/kg) in milk solution (27.8 mL/kg) for each rat pups was performed through intragastric intubation on 2 to 10 postnatal days and NaHS as H2S donor (1 mg/kg) was injected on similar time, subcutaneously. For examining the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, ELISA assay was performed to determine the levels of TNF-α, IL1β, and antioxidant enzymes. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate the expression levels of GFAP and caspase-3 also Nissl staining was done for necrotic cell death evaluation. H2S treatment could significantly increase the activity of total superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione (P < 0.05). It also decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL1β, and malondialdehyde, compared with the ethanol group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the number of hippocampal caspase-3, GFAP-positive cells, and necrotic cells death reduced in the H2S group (P < 0.01). Based on the findings, H2S can inhibit apoptotic signaling that is mediated by the oxidative-inflammatory cascade following ethanol exposure of rat pups on postnatal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Mohseni
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Nesfatin-1 Ameliorate Learning and Memory Deficit via Inhibiting Apoptosis and Neuroinflammation Following Ethanol-Induced Neurotoxicity in Early Postnatal Rats. Int J Pept Res Ther 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-019-09999-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
43
|
Mohseni F, Bagheri F, Rafaiee R, Norozi P, Khaksari M. Hydrogen sulfide improves spatial memory impairment via increases of BDNF expression and hippocampal neurogenesis following early postnatal alcohol exposure. Physiol Behav 2019; 215:112784. [PMID: 31863854 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
According to experimental and clinical findings, fetal brain development may be interrupted by maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is thought to play a role in cognition function (i.e. learning and memory). Recent evidence suggests that ethanol administration causes major apoptotic neurodegeneration in many regions of the rats' developing brain during the synaptogenesis period. Based on the recent studies, H2S improve learning and memory via increased neurogenesis and antiapoptotic mechanisms in different animal models. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effects of hydrogen sulfide on alcohol-induced memory impairment, hippocampus neurogenesis and neuronal apoptosis in rat pups with postnatal ethanol exposure. Administration of ethanol to male rat pups was performed through intragastric intubation on postnatal days 2-10. The pups were administered 1 mg/kg of NaHS (H2S donor) on postnatal days 2-10. For examining the spatial memory, Morris water maze test was carried out 36 days after birth. Following the behavioral test, immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate the expression levels of BrdU, BDNF and Apoptotic cell death was detected by TUNEL staining. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) treatment could significantly improve spatial memory impairment (P < 0.05) and significantly increase the expression of BrdU and BDNF in dentate gyrus area (P < 0.05). It also decreased positive TUNEL cells, compared with the ethanol group (P < 0.01). Based on the findings, H2S makes significant neuroprotective effects on Ethanol neurotoxicity due to its neurogenesis and anti-apoptotic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Mohseni
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | | | - Raheleh Rafaiee
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Pirasteh Norozi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lu S, Liao L, Zhang B, Yan W, Chen L, Yan H, Guo L, Lu S, Xiong K, Yan J. Antioxidant cascades confer neuroprotection in ethanol, morphine, and methamphetamine preconditioning. Neurochem Int 2019; 131:104540. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2019.104540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
45
|
Crocin Improves Cognitive Behavior in Rats with Alzheimer's Disease by Regulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Apoptosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:9454913. [PMID: 31534969 PMCID: PMC6732583 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9454913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aim To investigate the effect of crocin on the learning and memory acquisition of AD rats and its underlying mechanisms. Methods A total of 48 healthy male SD rats were randomly divided into control group, AD model group, resveratrol group, and crocin group, with 12 rats per group. AD model was established by injecting Aβ25–35 to the lateral ventricle of rats, and thereafter the rats were administrated with resveratrol (40 mg/kg), crocin (40 mg/kg), or PBS daily for 14 days. Y-maze test and sucrose preference test were used to detect the learning and memory acquisition of rats. Neuronal apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and Western blot for apoptosis-related proteins Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot tests were used to detect the expression of glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) in hippocampal CA1 region (Hippo) and prefrontal cortical neurons (PFC). Results The learning and memory abilities of AD rats were significantly decreased, which was significantly rescued by resveratrol and crocin. The apoptotic cell number of Hippo and PFC neurons in AD model group was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.01), while resveratrol and crocin significantly decreased the apoptotic cell number in AD group (P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the expression of Bcl2 in PFC and hippo of AD model group was significantly decreased (P<0.01), while those of Bax, Caspase3, GRP78, and CHOP were significantly increased (P<0.01). Resveratrol and crocin could significantly reverse the expression of these proteins in AD rats (P<0.05). Conclusion Crocin can improve the learning and memory ability of AD rats possibly by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress and neuronal apoptosis.
Collapse
|
46
|
Foroughi K, Khaksari M, Rahmati M, Bitaraf FS, Shayannia A. Apelin-13 Protects PC12 Cells Against Methamphetamine-Induced Oxidative Stress, Autophagy and Apoptosis. Neurochem Res 2019; 44:2103-2112. [PMID: 31385138 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-019-02847-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a potent psychomotor stimulant that has a high potential for abuse in humans. In addition, it is neurotoxic, especially in dopaminergic neurons. Long-lasting exposure to METH causes psychosis and increases the risk of Parkinson's disease. Apelin-13 is a novel endogenous ligand which studies have shown that may have a neuroprotective effect. Therefore, we hypothesized that Apelin-13 might adequately prevent METH-induced neurotoxicity via the inhibition of apoptotic, autophagy, and ROS responses. In this study, PC12 cells were exposed to both METH (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 mmol/L) and Apelin-13 (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0 μmol/L) in vitro for 24 h to measure determined dose, and then downstream pathways were measured to investigate apoptosis, autophagy, and ROS responses. The results have indicated that Apelin-13 decreased the apoptotic response post-METH exposure in PC12 cells by increasing cell viability, reducing apoptotic rates. In addition, the study has revealed Apelin-13 decreased gene expression of Beclin-1 by Real-Time PCR and LC3-II by western blotting in METH-induced PC12 cells, which demonstrated autophagy is reduced. In addition, this study has shown that Apelin-13 reduces intracellular ROS of METH-induced PC12 cells. These results support Apelin-13 to be investigated as a potential drug for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. It is suggested that Apelin-13 is beneficial in reducing oxidative stress, which may also play an important role in the regulation of METH-triggered apoptotic response. Hence, these data indicate that Apelin-13 could potentially alleviate METH-induced neurotoxicity via the reduction of oxidative damages, apoptotic, and autophagy cell death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kobra Foroughi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Majid Rahmati
- Cancer Prevention Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Fateme Sadat Bitaraf
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Asghar Shayannia
- Bahar Center for Education, Research and Treatment, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mirarab E, Hojati V, Vaezi G, Shiravi A, Khaksari M. Obestatin inhibits apoptosis and astrogliosis of hippocampal neurons following global cerebral ischemia reperfusion via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019; 22:617-622. [PMID: 31231488 PMCID: PMC6570752 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2019.34118.8110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Objective(s): Obestatin is a newly discovered peptide with antioxidant activities in different animal models. Recent studies have shown that Obestatin inhibits apoptosis following cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury. Brain ischemia/reperfusion induces irreversible damage especially in the hippocampus area. This study aimed at examining the protective impact of Obestatin on apoptosis, protein expression and reactive astrogliosis level in hippocampal CA1 region of rat following transient global cerebral ischemia. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups (sham, ischemia/reperfusion, ischemia/reperfusion+ Obestatin 1, and 5 µg/kg, n=12). Ischemia induced occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 20 min. Obestatin 1 and 5 µg/kg were injected intraperitoneally at the beginning of reperfusion period and 24 and 48 hr after reperfusion. Assessment of the antioxidant enzymes and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was performed by ELISA method. Caspase-3 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) proteins expression levels were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining 7 days after ischemia. Results: Based on the result of the current study, lower superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) (P<0.05) and higher malondialdehyde (MDA) and TNF-α levels were observed in the ischemia group than those of the sham group (P<0.01). Obestatin treatment could increase both SOD and GSH (P<0.05) and reduce MDA and TNF-α (P<0.05) versus the ischemia group. Moreover, obestatin could significantly decrease caspase-3 and GFAP positive cells in the CA1 region of hippocampus (P<0.01). Conclusion: Obestatin exerts protective effects against ischemia injury by inhibition of astrocytes activation and decreases neuronal cell apoptosis via its antioxidant properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Mirarab
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Vida Hojati
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Golamhassan Vaezi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Khaksari
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Alavijeh MM, Vaezi G, Khaksari M, Hojati V. Berberine hydrochloride attenuates voluntary methamphetamine consumption and anxiety-like behaviors via modulation of oxytocin receptors in methamphetamine addicted rats. Physiol Behav 2019; 206:157-165. [PMID: 30922821 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Methamphetamine (METH) addiction is recognized as one of the major public health concerns, with no approved pharmacological agents for treatment. Berberine hydrochloride, an isoquinoline alkaloid in plants, induces antipsychotic and anxiolytic effects. Hence, we hypothesized that berberine may modulate the METH-induced rewarding effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, three groups of rat including control (N = 10), METH + vehicle (N = 10), and METH + berberine (N = 10) were kept in separate cages one day before expriments. METH (20 mg/L) was dissolved in tap water inside a bottle, while there was only tap water in the control bottle. Two groups received free METH solutions for two weeks (up to 12 mg/kg). Afterwards, they were abstianced for three weeks. Only one group received 100 mg/kg/day of berberine. After three weeks, locomotor activity and anxiety (elevated plus maze test) were evaluated, then the two-bottles choice model was used for one week to evaluate drug preferences. Finally, the brain of rats was removed for evaluation of oxytocin receptor expression via immunofluorescence staining method. RESULTS The results showed that METH preference was lower in the berberine + METH group during drug intake compared to the METH group (P < .05). During withdrawal, berberine reduced anxiety-like behaviors (P < .05) and decreased locomotor activity versus the METH group (P < .001). Also, berberine increased numbers of oxytocin receptors in comparison with the METH group (P < .01). CONCLUSION Considering the modulation of oxytocin receptors, berberine may be considered as a potential therapeutic agent for METH addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gholamhassan Vaezi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khaksari
- Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| | - Vida Hojati
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|