Ferulic acid renders protection to HEK293 cells against oxidative damage and apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide

Exploring the Antiviral Potential of Esters of Cinnamic Acids with Quercetin

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected more than 762 million people to date and has caused approximately 7 million deaths all around the world, involving more than 187 countries. Although currently available vaccines show high efficacy in preventing severe respiratory complications in infected patients, the high number of mutations in the S proteins of the current variants is responsible for the high level of immune evasion and transmissibility of the virus and the reduced effectiveness of acquired immunity. In this scenario, the development of safe and effective drugs of synthetic or natural origin to suppress viral replication and treat acute forms of COVID-19 remains a valid therapeutic challenge. Given the successful history of flavonoids-based drug discovery, we developed esters of substituted cinnamic acids with quercetin to evaluate their in vitro activity against a broad spectrum of Coronaviruses. Interestingly, two derivatives, the 3,4-methylenedioxy 6 and the ester of acid 7, have proved to be effective in reducing OC43-induced cytopathogenicity, showing interesting EC50s profiles. The ester of synaptic acid 7 in particular, which is not endowed with relevant cytotoxicity under any of the tested conditions, turned out to be active against OC43 and SARS-CoV-2, showing a promising EC50. Therefore, said compound was selected as the lead object of further analysis. When tested in a yield reduction, assay 7 produced a significant dose-dependent reduction in viral titer. However, the compound was not virucidal, as exposure to high concentrations of it did not affect viral infectivity, nor did it affect hCoV-OC43 penetration into pre-treated host cells. Additional studies on the action mechanism have suggested that our derivative may inhibit viral endocytosis by reducing viral attachment to host cells.

Ameliorative effect of traditional polyherbal formulation on TNF-α, IL-1β and Caspase-3 expression in kidneys of wistar rats against sodium fluoride induced oxidative stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sharbat-e-bazoori Motadil (SBM) is a polyherbal formulation that have been used for centuries as a part of the Unani system of medicine for renal disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to explore and validate the nephroprotective potential of sugar-free SBM (SF-SBM) and its mechanisms of action against sodium fluoride (NaF)-induced nephrotoxicity in HEK-293 cells. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the quality control of SF-SBM and investigate its effects using an in vivo rat model with pattern recognition following oral administration of SF-SBM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The nephroprotective effect of SF-SBM was investigated using both an HEK-293 cell line and Wistar rats. Nephrotoxicity was induced in these models by administering NaF at a concentration of 600 ppm (parts per million) for a duration of seven days. The SF-SBM formulation was standardized using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) to assess the presence of marker compounds, namely gallic acid, quercetin, and ferulic acid. Metabolite characterization of SF-SBM was carried out using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) with a monolithic capillary silica-based C18 column. This analytical technique allowed for the identification of bioactive substances and verification of the identified markers. Acute toxicity of SF-SBM was evaluated in Wistar rats by administering a single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg of SF-SBM. The nephroprotective efficacy of SF-SBM was further assessed at low (LD), medium (MD) and high (HD) doses of 32.1, 64.2, and 128.4 mg/kg, respectively, administered orally. Nephrotoxicity was induced in Wistar rats by adding NaF to their drinking water for seven days. Biochemical and urine markers were analyzed to evaluate the antioxidant, inflammatory, and apoptotic potential of SF-SBM. Additionally, histopathological analysis and immunohistochemical alterations in the expression of caspase-3 and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase-4 (NOX-4) in kidney tissue were performed to confirm the findings of the in vivo experiments. Furthermore, in vivo pattern recognition of SF-SBM metabolites, identified through GC-MS metabolomics, and in-silico docking analysis of major metabolites in plasma were conducted to gain further insights.

RESULT

Phytochemical analysis using HPTLC, TLC-bioautography, and UPLC-MS revealed the presence of several bioactive constituents in SF-SBM, including ferulic acid, gallic acid (GA), ellagic acid, quercetin, and apigenin. These compounds exhibit diverse pharmacological properties. In vitro studies demonstrated the protective effect of SF-SBM on HEK-293 cell line against nephrotoxicity. The acute toxicity study of SF-SBM at a dose of 2000 mg/kg showed no mortality or signs of toxicity throughout the 14-day observation period. In the in vivo studies, administration of NaF resulted in significant elevation (P < 0.001) of biochemical and urine parameters, indicating oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic stress. Histopathological examination revealed severe depletion of Bowman's capsule, and immunohistochemistry demonstrated negative immunostaining for caspase-3 and reduced NOX-4 reactions. Pre-treatment with SF-SBM significantly attenuated the elevated biochemical and urine markers, restored the antioxidant enzyme levels (such as SOD, CAT, GSH, GPx and NO), and regulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, CASP-3) in kidney tissue at doses of SF-SBM-MD (64.2 mg/kg) and SF-SBM-HD (128.4 mg/kg), showing comparable results to those of α-Ketoanalogue. Histopathological assessment demonstrated improvements in tissue damage. Pattern recognition analysis of SF-SBM identified the presence of 56 metabolites at different time intervals. Additionally, in-silico studies revealed strong interactions of SF-SBM with a binding energy of -6.5 and -5.6 kcal for 4C2N.

CONCLUSION

The phytoconstituents present in SF-SBM play a crucial role in its nephroprotective action by acting as potent antioxidants and reducing proinflammatory and apoptotic damage in rat cells. This indicates that SF-SBM has promising potential for the treatment of nephrotoxicity.

Potential Benefits of Antioxidant Phytochemicals in Type 2 Diabetes

The clinical relationship between diabetes and inflammation is well established. Evidence clearly indicates that disrupting oxidant-antioxidant equilibrium and elevated lipid peroxidation could be a potential mechanism for chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Under diabetic conditions, hyperglycemia, especially inflammation, and increased reactive oxygen species generation are bidirectionally associated. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage are believed to play a role in the development of diabetes. Although the exact mechanism underlying oxidative stress and its impact on diabetes progression remains uncertain, the hyperglycemia-inflammation-oxidative stress interaction clearly plays a significant role in the onset and progression of vascular disease, kidney disease, hepatic injury, and pancreas damage and, therefore, holds promise as a therapeutic target. Evidence strongly indicates that the use of multiple antidiabetic medications fails to achieve the normal range for glycated hemoglobin targets, signifying treatment-resistant diabetes. Antioxidants with polyphenols are considered useful as adjuvant therapy for their potential anti-inflammatory effect and antioxidant activity. We aimed to analyze the current major points reported in preclinical, in vivo, and clinical studies of antioxidants in the prevention or treatment of inflammation in T2DM. Then, we will share our speculative vision for future diabetes clinical trials.

Ferulic Acid Enhances Oocyte Maturation and the Subsequent Development of Bovine Oocytes

Improving the quality of oocytes matured in vitro is integral to enhancing the efficacy of in vitro embryo production. Oxidative stress is one of the primary causes of quality decline in oocytes matured in vitro. In this study, ferulic acid (FA), a natural antioxidant found in plant cell walls, was investigated to evaluate its impact on bovine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were treated with different concentrations of FA (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20 μM) during in vitro maturation (IVM). Compared to the control group, supplementation with 5 μM FA significantly enhanced the maturation rates of bovine oocytes and the expansion of the cumulus cells area, as well as the subsequent cleavage and blastocyst formation rates after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Furthermore, FA supplementation was observed to effectively decrease the levels of ROS in bovine oocytes and improve their mitochondrial function. Our experiments demonstrate that FA can maintain the levels of antioxidants (GSH, SOD, CAT) in oocytes, thereby alleviating the oxidative stress induced by H2O2. RT-qPCR results revealed that, after FA treatment, the relative mRNA expression levels of genes related to oocyte maturation (GDF-9 and BMP-15), cumulus cell expansion (HAS2, PTX3, CX37, and CX43), and embryo pluripotency (OCT4, SOX2, and CDX2) were significantly increased. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that FA supplementation during bovine oocyte IVM can enhance oocyte quality and the developmental potential of subsequent embryos.

Management of metabolic syndrome by nutraceuticals prepared from chitosan and ferulic acid with or without beta-sitosterol and their nanoforms

Dyslipidemia, steatohepatitis and insulin resistance are among the components of metabolic syndrome (MS). Nutraceuticals containing chitosan, beta-sitosterol and/or ferulic acid and their nanostructures could have a potential role for management of MS. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of the aforementioned nutraceuticals in treatment of MS in rat and their interaction with atorvastatin, a hypolipidemic drug. The two nutraceuticals and their nanostructures were prepared and the nanostructures were assessed by transmission electron microscope and Fourier-Transform Infra-red Spectrometry. MS was induced in rats by feeding high fructose-high fat diet (HFFD). Different groups of rats fed HFFD and treated with the different nutraceuticals, atorvastatin and atorvastatin in combination with different nutraceuticals, control fed on balanced diet and control consumed HFFD without treatments were run. Plasma glucose, lipid profile, aminotransferases activity, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, urea, creatinine, insulin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, and adiponectin were assessed along with calculation of insulin resistance. Liver fat and histopathology were investigated. All nutraceuticals in original and nanostructures showed beneficial effects in the treatment of MS, superiority was ascribed to nutraceuticals composed of chitosan and ferulic acid in both forms. A more promising treatment of MS belonged to atorvastatin administered with the different nutraceuticals.

Characterization and Biological Activities of Melanin from the Medicinal Fungi Ophiocordyceps sinensis

Melanin is a complex natural pigment that is widely present in fungi. The mushroom Ophiocordyceps sinensis has a variety of pharmacological effects. The active substances of O. sinensis have been extensively studied, but few studies have focused on the O. sinensis melanin. In this study, the production of melanin was increased by adding light or oxidative stress, namely, reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS), during liquid fermentation. Subsequently, the structure of the purified melanin was characterized using elemental analysis, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrum, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and pyrolysis gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (Py-GCMS). Studies have shown that O. sinensis melanin is composed of C (50.59), H (6.18), O (33.90), N (8.19), and S (1.20), with maximum absorbance at 237 nm and typical melanin structures such as benzene, indole, and pyrrole. Additionally, the various biological activities of O. sinensis melanin have been discovered; it can chelate heavy metals and shows a strong ultraviolet-blocking ability. Moreover, O. sinensis melanin can reduce the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and counteract the oxidative damage of H₂O₂ to cells. These results can help us to develop applications of O. sinensis melanin in radiation resistance, heavy metal pollution remediation, and antioxidant use.

Influence of trans-ferulic acid on the quality of ram semen upon cold preservation

BACKGROUND

Due to lower antioxidant capacity and higher amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, ram spermatozoa are very susceptible during cooling process.

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to examine the effect of the trans-ferulic acid (t-FA) on the ram semen during liquid preservation.

METHODS

Semen samples were collected from the Qezel rams, pooled, and extended with the Tris-based diluent. Pooled samples enriched with different amounts of the t-FA (0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 25 mM) and preserved at 4°C for 72 h. Spermatozoa's kinematics, membrane functionality, and viability were assessed by CASA system, hypoosmotic swelling test, and eosin-nigrosin staining, respectively. Moreover, biochemical parameters were measured at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h.

RESULTS

Results showed that 5 and 10 mM t-FA improved forward progressive motility (FPM) and curvilinear velocity compared to the other groups at 72 h (p < 0.05). Samples treated with 25 mM t-FA showed the lowest total motility, FPM, and viability at 24, 48, and 72 h of storage (p < 0.05). Higher total antioxidant activity levels were observed in the 10 mM t-FA-treated group compared to the negative control at 72 h (p < 0.05). Treatment with 25 mM t-FA increased malondialdehyde amounts and decreased superoxide dismutase activity compared to other groups at the final time assessment (p < 0.05). Nitrate-nitrite and lipid hydroperoxides values were not affected by treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study indicates the positive and negative influences of different concentrations of t-FA on the ram semen upon cold storage.

Design, synthesis, antiviral activities of ferulic acid derivatives

A series of novel ferulic acid derivatives were designed and synthesized, and the twenty-one compounds were evaluated for their antiviral activities against Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), and enterovirus type 71 (EV71). These derivatives with the core structure of diphenyl acrylic acids had cis-trans isomers, which were confirmed by ¹H NMR, HPLC, and UV-vis spectra for the first time. The A5 had a selective effect against RSV but no work on herpes simplex virus type 1 and enterovirus type 71, which showed a therapeutic index (TI) of 32 and was significantly better than ferulic acid. The A5 had no scavenging effect on free radicals, but the A2 as the degradation of A5 showed an obvious scavenging effect on DPPH· and ABTS⁺·. In addition, the A5 had no toxicity to endothelial cells and even showed a proliferative effect. Therefore, the A5 is worth further optimizing its structure as a lead compound and investigating the mechanism of inhibiting Respiratory syncytial virus.

Recent Advances in the Neuroprotective Properties of Ferulic Acid in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Narrative Review

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, characterized by neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter deficits, and neurodegeneration, which finally leads to neuronal death. Emerging evidence highlighted that hyperglycemia and brain insulin resistance represent risk factors for AD development, thus suggesting the existence of an additional AD form, associated with glucose metabolism impairment, named type 3 diabetes. Owing to the limited pharmacological options, novel strategies, especially dietary approaches based on the consumption of polyphenols, have been addressed to prevent or, at least, slow down AD progression. Among polyphenols, ferulic acid is a hydroxycinnamic acid derivative, widely distributed in nature, especially in cereal bran and fruits, and known to be endowed with many bioactivities, especially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic, thus suggesting it could be exploited as a possible novel neuroprotective strategy. Considering the importance of ferulic acid as a bioactive molecule and its widespread distribution in foods and medicinal plants, the aim of the present narrative review is to provide an overview on the existing preclinical and clinical evidence about the neuroprotective properties and mechanisms of action of ferulic acid, also focusing on its ability to modulate glucose homeostasis, in order to support a further therapeutic interest for AD and type 3 diabetes.

Effects of Dietary Ferulic Acid Supplementation on Hepatic Injuries in Tianfu Broilers Challenged with Lipopolysaccharide

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin that can cause an imbalance between the oxidation and antioxidant defense systems and then induces hepatic damages. Ferulic acid (FA) has multiple biological functions including antibacterial and antioxidant activities; however, the effect of FA on lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatic injury remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action of dietary Ferulic acid against Lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatic injuries in Tianfu broiler chickens. The results showed that supplementation of FA in daily feed increased body weight (BW) and decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR) in LPS treatment broilers significantly (p < 0.05). Additionally, supplement of FA alleviated histological changes and apoptosis of hepatocytes in LPS treatment broilers. Supplement of FA significantly decreases the activities of ROS. Interestingly, the levels of antioxidant parameters including total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and glutathione (GSH) in LPS group were significantly increased by the FA supplementation (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, administration of LPS to broilers decreased the expressions of Nrf2, NQO1, SOD, GSH-Px, CAT and Bcl-2, whereas it increased the expressions of Bax and Caspase-3 (p < 0.05). Moreover, the expressions of Nrf2, NQO1, SOD, CAT, Bcl-2 were significantly upregulated and Caspase-3 were significantly downregulated in the FL group when compared to LPS group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of FA in daily feed improves growth performance and alleviates LPS-induced oxidative stress, histopathologic changes, and apoptosis of hepatocytes in Tianfu broilers.

Potential nephroprotective phytochemicals: Mechanism and future prospects

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kidney disease (KD) is one of the serious health issues, which causes worrisome morbidity and economic burden. Therapeutic strategies are available however majority of them are associated with severe adverse effects and poor patient compliance and adherence. This explorative article was undertaken to provide a holistic review of known nephroprotective (NP) phytoconstituents along with their research-based evidences on mechanism, sources, and clinical trials that may play essential role in prevention and cure of KD.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present systematic review aimed to provide in-depth and better evidences of the global burden of KD, phytoconstituents as NP with emphasis on mechanism of action both in vitro and in vivo, their wide biological sources as well as their clinical efficacy in management of kidney disease and its related disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Comprehensive information was searched systematically from electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Sciencedirect, Wiley, Scopus, Google scholar and Springer until February 2021 to find relevant data for publication on phytoconstituents with nephroprotective potential.

RESULTS

In total, 24,327 articles were screened in first search for "phytoconstituents and medicinal plants for nephroprotection and kidney disorder". On the basis of exclusion and inclusion criteria, 24,091 were excluded. Only 236 papers were spotted to have superlative quality data, which is appropriate under titles and sub-titles of the present review. The phytoconstituents having multiple research evidence along with wide number of medicinal plants sources and mechanism reported for nephroprotection have been selected and reviewed.

CONCLUSION

This review, based on pre-clinical and clinical data of NP phytoconstituents, provides scientific-basis for the rational discovery, development and utilization of these upcoming treatment practices. Further,-more clinical studies are warranted to improve the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic understanding of phytoconstituents. Also, more specific evaluation for natural sources is needed.

Antioxidant and Inflammatory Effects of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Leaves

This study is aimed at identifying the bioactive components in lotus leaf flavonoid extract (LLFE) and analyzing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of LLFE in vitro and in vivo. The flavonoids in LLFE were determined by UHPLC-MS/MS. The effect of LLFE on damaged 293T cells (H2O2, 0.3 mmol/L) was determined by MTT assay, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes was measured by kits. We studied the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of LLFE on D-Gal/LPS (30 mg/kg·bw and 3 μg/kg·bw)-induced aging mice. We also evaluated the main organ index, pathological changes in the liver, lung, and kidney, liver function index, biochemical index, cytokine level, and mRNA expression level in serum and liver. The results showed that LLFE contains baicalein, kaempferol, kaempferid, quercetin, isorhamnetin, hyperoside, lespenephryl, and rutin. LLFE reduced the oxidative damage sustained by 293T cells, increased the levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px, and decreased the level of MDA. The animal studies revealed that LLFE reduced oxidative damage and inflammation in injured mice, inhibited increases in AST, ALT, MDA, and NO, increased SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px levels, upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-12, and downregulated proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Furthermore, the expression of antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory-related mRNA was consistent with the above results.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: From Biochemistry to Pathophysiology

Free radicals are unstable chemical reactive species produced during Redox dyshomeostasis (RDH) inside living cells and are implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases. One of the most complicated and life-threatening motor neurodegenerative diseases (MND) is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) because of the poor understanding of its pathophysiology and absence of an effective treatment for its cure. During the last 25 years, researchers around the globe have focused their interest on copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD, SOD1) protein after the landmark discovery of mutant SOD1 (mSOD1) gene as a risk factor for ALS. Substantial evidence suggests that toxic gain of function due to redox disturbance caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) changes the biophysical properties of native SOD1 protein thus, instigating its fibrillization and misfolding. These abnormal misfolding aggregates or inclusions of SOD1 play a role in the pathogenesis of both forms of ALS, i.e., Sporadic ALS (sALS) and familial ALS (fALS). However, what leads to a decrease in the stability and misfolding of SOD1 is still in question and our scientific knowledge is scarce. A large number of studies have been conducted in this area to explore the biochemical mechanistic pathway of SOD1 aggregation. Several studies, over the past two decades, have shown that the SOD1-catalyzed biochemical reaction product hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) at a pathological concentration act as a substrate to trigger the misfolding trajectories and toxicity of SOD1 in the pathogenesis of ALS. These toxic aggregates of SOD1 also cause aberrant localization of TAR-DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43), which is characteristic of neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions (NCI) found in ALS. Here in this review, we present the evidence implicating the pivotal role of H₂O₂ in modulating the toxicity of SOD1 in the pathophysiology of the incurable and highly complex disease ALS. Also, highlighting the role of H₂O₂ in ALS, we believe will encourage scientists to target pathological concentrations of H₂O₂ thereby halting the misfolding of SOD1.

Two superior antioxidants: Ferulic acid and ascorbic acid in reducing signs of photoaging-A split-face comparative study

The assessment of the signs of photoaging in mexametric (melanin and erythema index), corneometric (hydration level), and cutometric (elasticity) examination after the treatment with ascorbic acid and ferulic acid. This study was conducted in a group of 20 women aged 39-61 (mean age 54), with Fitzpatrick skin types II and III. The study included a series of eight treatments performed once a week. Two layers of peeling, based on 14% ferulic acid (left half of the face) and 12% l-ascorbic acid serum (right half of the face) were applied. To determine skin parameters: moisture, elasticity, melanin level, and erythema intensity, the Multi Probe Adapter Systems (Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH, Köln, Germany) were used. Additionally, before and after the series of treatments, photographs were taken with the standardized photographic system Fotomedicus (Elfo®). The results of mexametric measurement for melanin level and erythema intensity were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) for both acids. Slightly greater lightening of the skin was demonstrated for ascorbic acid. The results of corneometric measurement of hydration level for ferulic acid and ascorbic acid were both statistically significant (p < 0.0001). First beneficial changes in improved elasticity could be observed as early as after 8 weeks but the increase in flexibility grew with time (after 12 weeks). These changes affected both acids and all measurement points. The changes in parameters were highly statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Based on the conducted research, it is not possible to state which of the tested acids is more effective in reducing the symptoms of photoaging. Both acids (ascorbic and ferulic), which have a high antioxidant potential, affect the measurable parameters of the skin: pigmentation (melanin index), erythema (erythema index), skin hydration, and elasticity.

Ferulic acid: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and derivatives

Ferulic acid, a kind of phenolic substance widely existing in plants, is an important active component of many traditional Chinese medicines. So far, it has been proved that ferulic acid has a variety of biological activities, especially in oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular endothelial injury, fibrosis, apoptosis and platelet aggregation. Many studies have shown that ferulic acid can inhibit PI3K/AKT pathway, the production of ROS and the activity of aldose reductase. The anti-inflammatory effect of ferulic acid is mainly related to the levels of PPAR γ, CAM and NF-κ B and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Ferulic acid not only protects vascular endothelium by ERK1/2 and NO/ET-1 signal, but also plays an anti-fibrosis role by TGF-β/Smad and MMPs/TIMPs system. Moreover, ferulic acid has ant-apoptotic and anti-platelet effects. In addition to the pharmacological effects of ferulic acid, its pharmacokinetics and derivatives were also discussed in this paper. This review provides the latest summary of the latest research on ferulic acid.

Curcumin Efficacy in a Serum/Glucose Deprivation-Induced Neuronal PC12 Injury Model

BACKGROUND

Glucose/serum deprivation (GSD), has been used for understanding molecular mechanisms of neuronal damage during ischemia. It has been suggested that curcumin may improve neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM

In this study, the protective effects of curcumin and its underlying mechanisms were investigated in PC12 cells upon GSD-induced stress.

METHODS

PC12 cells were cultured in DMEM overnight and then incubated in GSD condition for either 6 or 12h. GSD-treated cells were pretreated with various concentrations of curcumin (10, 20, and 40 μM) for 5h. The cell viability, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative stress, expression of apoptosis-related genes, and IL-6 were determined.

RESULTS

Curcumin increased cell viability and caused an anti-apoptotic effect in PC12 cells exposed for 12h to GSD . Curcumin also increased antioxidant enzyme expression, suppressed lipid peroxidation, and decreased interleukin-6 secretion in PC12 cells subjected to GSD. In addition, pretreatment with curcumin down-regulated pro-apoptotic (Bax), and up-regulated antiapoptotic (Bcl2) mediators.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin mitigates many of the adverse effects of ischemia, and therefore, should be considered as an adjunct therapy in ischemic patients.

Astaxanthin protects oxidative stress mediated DNA damage and enhances longevity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have long been found to play an important role in oxidative mediated DNA damage. Fortunately, cells possess an antioxidant system that can neutralize ROS. However, oxidative stress occurs when antioxidants are overwhelmed by ROS or impaired antioxidant pathways. This study was carried out to find the protective effect of astaxanthin on the yeast DNA repair-deficient mutant cells under hydrogen peroxide stress. The results showed that astaxanthin enhances the percent cell growth of rad1∆, rad51∆, apn1∆, apn2∆ and ogg1∆ cells. Further, the spot test and colony-forming unit count results confirmed that astaxanthin protects DNA repair mutant cells from oxidative stress. The DNA binding property of astaxanthin studied by in silico and in vitro methods indicated that astaxanthin binds to the DNA in the major and minor groove, and that might protect DNA against oxidative stress induced by Fenton's reagent. The intracellular ROS, 8-OHdG level and the DNA fragmentation as measured by comet tail was reduced by astaxanthin under oxidative stress. Similarly, reduced nuclear fragmentation and chromatin condensation results suggest that astaxanthin might reduce apoptosis. Finally, we show that astaxanthin decreases the accumulation of mutation rate and enhances the longevity of DNA repair-deficient mutants' cells during a chronological lifespan.

Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Properties of Cyanobacteria: Potential for Biotechnological Applications

Antioxidant compounds from cyanobacteria may constitute a natural alternative to current synthetic antioxidants, which contain preservatives and suspected toxicity. In this work, we evaluate the antioxidant potential of cyanobacterial strains of distinct species/genus isolated from freshwater (n = 6), soil (n = 1) and wastewater (n = 1) environments. Lyophilized biomass obtained from in-vitro cultures of those strains was extracted with ethanol and methanol. The antioxidant potential was evaluated by chemical (DPPH scavenging method, β-carotene bleaching assay, determination of total phenolic and total flavonoid compounds) and biological (H₂O₂-exposed HEK293T cell line model) approach. Some strains showed high yields of antioxidant activity by the DPPH assay (up to 10.7% IP/20.7 TE μg/mL) and by the β-carotene bleaching assay (up to 828.94 AAC), as well as significant content in phenolic (123.16 mg EAG/g DW) and flavonoid (900.60 mg EQR/g DW) compounds. Normalization of data in a “per cell” or “per cell volume” base might facilitate the comparison between strains. Additionally, most of the cyanobacterial extracts conferred some degree of protection to HEK293T cells against the H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity. Freshwater Aphanizomenon gracile (LMECYA 009) and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (LMECYA 088), terrestrial Nostoc (LMECYA 291) and wastewater Planktothrix mougeotii (LEGE 06224) seem to be promising strains for further investigation on cyanobacteria antioxidant potential.

Natural Sources, Pharmacokinetics, Biological Activities and Health Benefits of Hydroxycinnamic Acids and Their Metabolites

Hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs) are important natural phenolic compounds present in high concentrations in fruits, vegetables, cereals, coffee, tea and wine. Many health beneficial effects have been acknowledged in food products rich in HCAs; however, food processing, dietary intake, bioaccessibility and pharmacokinetics have a high impact on HCAs to reach the target tissue in order to exert their biological activities. In particular, metabolism is of high importance since HCAs' metabolites could either lose the activity or be even more potent compared to the parent compounds. In this review, natural sources and pharmacokinetic properties of HCAs and their esters are presented and discussed. The main focus is on their metabolism along with biological activities and health benefits. Special emphasis is given on specific effects of HCAs' metabolites in comparison with their parent compounds.

The implication of mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial oxidative damage in di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induced nephrotoxicity in both in vivo and in vitro models

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and its main metabolite, monoethylhexyl phthalic acid (MEHP), are a serious threat to human and animals' health in the current century. However, their exact mechanism to induce nephrotoxicity is not clear. In the current study, we addressed toxic effects of MEHP and DEHP on embryonic human kidney cells (HEK-293 cell line) and kidney tissue of rats, respectively. In the HEK-293, MTT assay and oxidative stress parameters were measured after treatment with different concentrations of MEHP. For in vivo study, rats were treated with different doses of DEHP (50, 100, 200, 400 mg/kg) via gavage administration for 45 days. The renal function biomarkers (BUN and creatinine) were determined in serum of rats. Mitochondrial toxic parameters including MTT, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), mitochondrial swelling, and also oxidative stress parameters were measured in isolated kidney mitochondria. Histopathological effects of DEHP were also evaluated in rats' kidneys. We demonstrated that MEHP induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in HEK-293 cells in a concentration dependent manner. The administration of DEHP led to histopathological changes in kidney tissue, which concurred with BUN and creatinine alternations in serum of rats. The results of present study showed a significant mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress confirmed by enhancement of mitochondrial swelling, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduction of MMP and mitochondrial glutathione (GSH). Taken together, this study showed that DEHP/MEHP resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage, which suggest a vital role of mitochondria in DEHP/MEHP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Flavonoids as positive allosteric modulators of α7 nicotinic receptors

The use of positive allosteric modulators (PAM) of α7 nicotinic receptors is a promising therapy for neurodegenerative, inflammatory and cognitive disorders. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds showing neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and pro-cognitive actions. Besides their well-known antioxidant activity, flavonoids trigger intracellular pathways and interact with receptors, including α7. To reveal how the beneficial actions of flavonoids are linked to α7 function, we evaluated the effects of three representative flavonoids -genistein, quercetin and the neoflavonoid 5,7-dihydroxy-4-phenylcoumarin- on whole-cell and single-channel currents. All flavonoids increase the maximal currents elicited by acetylcholine with minimal effects on desensitization and do not reactivate desensitized receptors, a behaviour consistent with type I PAMs. At the single-channel level, they increase the duration of the open state and produce activation in long-duration episodes with a rank order of efficacy of genistein > quercetin ≥ neoflavonoid. By using mutant and chimeric α7 receptors, we demonstrated that flavonoids share transmembrane structural determinants with other PAMs. The α7-PAM activity of flavonoids results in decreased cell levels of reactive oxygen species. Thus, allosteric potentiation of α7 may be an additional mechanism underlying neuroprotective actions of flavonoids, which may be used as scaffolds for designing new therapeutic agents.

Influence of ferulic acid consumption in ameliorating the cadmium-induced liver and renal oxidative damage in rats

The aim of this study relates to the modulatory role of ferulic acid (FA) against cadmium (Cd)-induced oxidative stress in the liver and kidney of male Wistar albino rats. Cd is an extremely toxic industrial and environmental pollutant and is well known for its varied toxic clinical manifestations. FA is a derivative of curcumin and a ubiquitous phenolic compound having a wide range of therapeutic activities. In the current study, Cd (10 mg/kg) was administered subcutaneously for 15 and 30 days to induce hepato-renal toxicity. Cd concentration was found to be significantly high in Cd-intoxicated rats (liver > kidney) while the supplementation of FA (50 mg/kg) significantly reduces the Cd concentration in liver and kidney tissues. Reduced body and organ weights and food and water consumption and increased rectal temperature were noticed in Cd-treated rats while these parameters were significantly ameliorated in FA-supplemented rats. Liver and kidney damage induced by Cd was significantly revealed by the reduction in serum total protein contents (TPC) and increased activities of serum nitric oxide (NO) levels and hepato-nephrotoxicity marker enzymes, namely aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), AST:ALT ratio, uric acid, urea, urea nitrogen, and creatinine, along with the increased levels of hepatic and renal oxidative stress markers, namely lipid peroxidation (MDA levels), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), protein carbonyl content (PCC), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, the toxicity of Cd was also evidenced by a significant decrease in the levels of total thiols (TTH), total antioxidant concentration (TAC), enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)), and non-enzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione (GSH) and total free sulfhydryl groups (TSH)). Administration of FA significantly restored the serum total protein levels and activities of serum NO levels and hepatic and renal marker enzymes to normal levels in comparison with Cd-intoxicated rats. Furthermore, FA significantly reduced the oxidative stress markers and recuperated the levels of antioxidant defense in the liver and kidney as evidenced by native PAGE and spectrophotometric assays, correlation and regression analysis and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and inferring the antioxidant role of FA. Histopathological damage due to Cd intoxication in the liver and kidney is demonstrated as vasodilatation and congestion in central veins and sinusoids as well as around the glomerulus, infiltration of mixed inflammatory cells and peripheral hemorrhage, hemorrhagic and enlarged sinusoids, disorganization of the hepatic parenchyma, focal necrosis, swelling of hepatocytes, calcified tissue inside blood vessels, hepatocyte degeneration and vacuolization of liver cells, hyaline casts, degenerated glomerulus with wide space and detached basement membrane, distal tubule with wide lumen, deformed proximal tubules with detached brush border, and degeneration and hyalinization of glomerular tuft. But, FA significantly reduced the toxicity of Cd and protected the normal histological architecture of the liver and kidney tissues. Cd-intoxicated rats were associated with a significant upregulation of TNF-α, COX-2, and HSP70 proteins, whereas treatment with FA caused downregulation of the above inflammatory markers indicating the anti-inflammatory role of FA. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Euclidean similarity measure studies clearly indicate that the liver is more prone to Cd toxicity than the kidney and FA supplementation significantly prevents oxidative stress, augmenting antioxidative status, and regaining histological parameters of the liver and kidney to normal, indicating hepato-nephroprotective, antiradical, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of this phenolic compound.

Ferulic acid and PDMS modified medical carbon materials for artificial joint prosthesis

Medical carbon material has been extensively studied due to their excellent biological and mechanical properties. However, the dissociation of the surface carbon particles greatly limited the application of medical carbon material (MCM). To overcome this defect, we introduced the polydimethylsiloxane, a polymer-coating material (PCM) that possesses acceptable biocompatibility, into medical carbon material to prevent the shedding of carbon debris. Additionally, to reduce inflammatory reactions and increase surface hydrophilicity, ferulic acid, also called Chinese medicine coating material (CCM), was used to modify the surface of polymer-coating material. We investigated the proliferation and adhesion of NIH-3T3 cells onto MCM, PCM and CCM in vitro. We showed that CCM exhibited excellent biological activity to promote cell growth. Twelve weeks after CCM implantation, bone defects were repaired, and the material showed acceptable chemical stability. The results indicated that the CCM composite possesses excellent mechanical property and favorable biocompatibility, which can be used for clinical bone repair.

Optimized synthesis of novel prenyl ferulate performed by feruloyl esterases from Myceliophthora thermophila in microemulsions

Five feruloyl esterases (FAEs; EC 3.1.1.73), FaeA1, FaeA2, FaeB1, and FaeB2 from Myceliophthora thermophila C1 and MtFae1a from M. thermophila ATCC 42464, were tested for their ability to catalyze the transesterification of vinyl ferulate (VFA) with prenol in detergentless microemulsions. Reaction conditions were optimized investigating parameters such as the medium composition, the substrate concentration, the enzyme load, the pH, the temperature, and agitation. FaeB2 offered the highest transesterification yield (71.5 ± 0.2%) after 24 h of incubation at 30 °C using 60 mM VFA, 1 M prenol, and 0.02 mg FAE/mL in a mixture comprising of 53.4:43.4:3.2 v/v/v n-hexane:t-butanol:100 mM MOPS-NaOH, pH 6.0. At these conditions, the competitive side hydrolysis of VFA was 4.7-fold minimized. The ability of prenyl ferulate (PFA) and its corresponding ferulic acid (FA) to scavenge 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals was significant and similar (IC₅₀ 423.39 μM for PFA, 329.9 μM for FA). PFA was not cytotoxic at 0.8-100 μM (IC₅₀ 220.23 μM) and reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human skin fibroblasts at concentrations ranging between 4 and 20 μM as determined with the dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay.

Long-Term Sodium Ferulate Supplementation Scavenges Oxygen Radicals and Reverses Liver Damage Induced by Iron Overloading

Ferulic acid is a polyphenolic compound contained in various types of fruits and wheat bran. As a salt of the active ingredient, sodium ferulate (SF) has potent free radical scavenging activity and can effectively scavenge ROS. In this study, we examined the effect of SF on iron-overloaded mice in comparison to a standard antioxidant, taurine (TAU). We determined the protective role of SF against liver injury by examining liver-to-body ratio (%), transaminase and hepatocyte apoptosis in rats supplied with 10% dextrose intraperitoneal injection. In addition, antioxidative enzymes activities, ROS formation, mitochondrial swelling, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were all evaluated to clarify the mechanism of protective effect of SF associated with oxidative stress. After 15 weeks of SF treatment, we found a significant reduction in liver-to-body weight radio and elevation in both transaminase and hepatocyte apoptosis associated with iron-injected to levels comparable to those achieved with TAU. Both SF and TAU significantly attenuated the impaired liver function associated with iron-overloaded in mice, whereas neither showed any significant effect on the iron uptake. Furthermore, treatment with either SF or TAU in iron-overloaded mice attenuated oxidative stress, associated with elevated oxidant enzymes activities, decreased ROS production, prevented mitochondrial swelling and dissipation of MMP and then inhibited hepatic apoptosis. Taken together, the current study shows that, SF alleviated oxidative stress and liver damage associated with iron-overload conditions compared to the standard ROS scavenger (TAU), and potentially could encourage higher consumption and utilization as healthy and sustainable ingredients by the food and drink.