Regulation of SIRT1 in cellular functions: role of polyphenols

The Citrus flavanone naringenin prolongs the lifespan in C. elegans and slows signs of brain aging in mice

Aging is one of the main risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders, which represent a global burden on healthcare systems. Therefore, identifying new strategies to slow the progression of brain aging is a compelling challenge. In this article, we first assessed the potential anti-aging effects of the Citrus flavanone naringenin (NAR), an activator of the enzyme sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), in a 3R-compliant and short-lived aging model (i.e., the nematode C. elegans). Then, we investigated the preventive effects of a 6-month treatment with NAR (100 mg/kg, orally) against brain aging and studied its mechanism of action in middle-aged mice. We demonstrated that NAR (100 μM) extends lifespan and improves healthspan in C. elegans. In the brain of middle-aged mice, NAR promotes the activity of metabolic enzymes (citrate synthase, cytochrome C oxidase) and increases the expression of the SIRT1 enzyme. Consistently, NAR up-regulates the expression of downstream antioxidant (Foxo3, Nrf2, Ho-1), anti-senescence (p16), and anti-inflammatory (Il-6, Il-18) markers. Our findings support NAR supplementation to slow the signs of brain aging.

The roles of dietary polyphenols at crosstalk between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease in ameliorating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction via PI3K/Akt signaling pathways

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease in which senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are crucially involved in its physiological and pathophysiological processes. Growing animal and clinical studies have suggested that AD is also comorbid with some metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and therefore, it is often considered brain diabetes. AD and T2DM share multiple molecular and biochemical mechanisms, including impaired insulin signaling, oxidative stress, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review article, we mainly introduce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction and explain their role and the underlying molecular mechanism in T2DM and AD pathogenesis; then, according to the current literature, we comprehensively evaluate the possibility of regulating oxidative homeostasis and mitochondrial function as therapeutics against AD. Furthermore, considering dietary polyphenols' antioxidative and antidiabetic properties, the strategies for applying them as potential therapeutical interventions in patients with AD symptoms are assessed.

Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Extracts in Protecting Aging Blood Vessels

Plant Extracts (PE) are natural substances extracted from plants, rich in various bioactive components. Exploring the molecular mechanisms and interactions involved in the vascular protective effects of PE is beneficial for the development of further strategies to protect aging blood vessels. For this review, the content was obtained from scientific databases such as PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Google Scholar up to July 2024, using the search terms "Plant extracts", "oxidative stress", "vascular aging", "endothelial dysfunction", "ROS", and "inflammation". This review highlighted the effects of PE in protecting aging blood vessels. Through pathways such as scavenging reactive oxygen species, activating antioxidant signaling pathways, enhancing respiratory chain complex activity, inhibiting mitochondrial-reactive oxygen species generation, improving nitric oxide bioavailability, downregulating the secretion of inflammatory factors, and activating sirtuins 1 and Nrf2 signaling pathways, it can improve vascular structural and functional changes caused by age-related oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation due to aging, thereby reducing the incidence of age-related cardiovascular diseases.

Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract Attenuates Cafeteria-Diet-Induced Liver Metabolic Disturbances in Rats: Influence of Photoperiod

This study investigated the influence of photoperiod (day length) on the efficacy of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) in mitigating metabolic disorders in obese rats fed a cafeteria diet. Rats were exposed to standard (L12), long (L18), or short (L6) photoperiods and treated with GSPE or vehicle. In the standard photoperiod, GSPE reduced body weight gain (50.5%), total cholesterol (37%), and triglycerides (34.8%), while increasing the expression of hepatic metabolic genes. In the long photoperiod, GSPE tended to decrease body weight gain, increased testosterone levels (68.3%), decreased liver weight (12.4%), and decreased reverse serum amino acids. In the short photoperiod, GSPE reduced glycemia (~10%) and lowered triglyceride levels (38.5%), with effects modified by diet. The standard photoperiod showed the greatest efficacy against metabolic syndrome-associated diseases. The study showed how day length affects GSPE's benefits and underscores considering biological rhythms in metabolic disease therapies.

Mechanism of salidroside regulating autophagy based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

Salidroside is a natural product of phenols with a wide range of pharmacological functions, but whether it plays a role in regulating autophagy is unclear. We systematically investigated the regulatory effect and molecular mechanism of salidroside on autophagy through network pharmacology, which provided a theoretical basis for subsequent experimental research. First, the target genes of salidroside were obtained using the Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, and the target genes were converted into standardized gene names using the Uniprot website. At the same time, autophagy-related genes were collected from GeneCards, and preliminary handling of data to obtain intersecting genes. Then, the String website was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network, and to perform the Gene Ontology functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. To observe the specific molecular mechanism by which salidroside regulates autophagy, we constructed a drug component-target genes-autophagy network. Finally, we performed molecular docking to verify the possible binding conformation between salidroside and the candidate target. By searching the database and analyzing the data, we found that 113 target genes in salidroside interact with autophagy. Salidroside regulate autophagy in relation to a number of important oncogenes and signaling pathways. Molecular docking confirmed that salidroside has high affinity with mTOR, SIRT1, and AKT1. Through network pharmacology combined with molecular docking-validated research methods, we revealed the underlying mechanism of salidroside regulation of autophagy. This study not only provides new systematic insights into the underlying mechanism of salidroside in autophagy, but also provides new ideas for network approaches for autophagy-related research.

The nonautophagic functions of autophagy-related proteins

ABBREVIATIONS

ATG: autophagy related; BECN1: beclin 1; cAMP: cyclic adenosine monophosphate; dsDNA: double-stranded DNA; EMT: epithelial-mesenchymal transition; IFN: interferon; ISCs: intestinal stem cells; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MAPK/JNK: mitogen-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinases; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; STING1: stimulator of interferon response cGAMP interactor 1; UVRAG: UV radiation resistance associated; VPS: vacuolar protein sorting.

The Killer's Web: Interconnection between Inflammation, Epigenetics and Nutrition in Cancer

Inflammation is a key contributor to both the initiation and progression of tumors, and it can be triggered by genetic instability within tumors, as well as by lifestyle and dietary factors. The inflammatory response plays a critical role in the genetic and epigenetic reprogramming of tumor cells, as well as in the cells that comprise the tumor microenvironment. Cells in the microenvironment acquire a phenotype that promotes immune evasion, progression, and metastasis. We will review the mechanisms and pathways involved in the interaction between tumors, inflammation, and nutrition, the limitations of current therapies, and discuss potential future therapeutic approaches.

CM1, a Chrysin Derivative, Protects from Endotoxin-Induced Lethal Shock by Regulating the Excessive Activation of Inflammatory Responses

Sepsis, a leading cause of death worldwide, is a harmful inflammatory condition that is primarily caused by an endotoxin released by Gram-negative bacteria. Effective targeted therapeutic strategies for sepsis are lacking. In this study, using an in vitro and in vivo mouse model, we demonstrated that CM1, a derivative of the natural polyphenol chrysin, exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by inducing the expression of the ubiquitin-editing protein TNFAIP3 and the NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Interestingly, CM1 attenuated the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-induced production of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/MAPK and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathways. In addition, CM1 induced the expression of TNFAIP3 and SIRT1 on TLR4-stimulated primary macrophages; however, the anti-inflammatory effect of CM1 was abolished by the siRNA-mediated silencing of TNFAPI3 or by the genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of SIRT1. Importantly, intravenous administration of CM1 resulted in decreased susceptibility to endotoxin-induced sepsis, thereby attenuating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophil infiltration into the lung compared to control mice. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that CM1 has therapeutic potential for diverse inflammatory diseases, including sepsis.

Particulate matter-induced metabolic recoding of epigenetics in macrophages drives pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of illnesses associated with unresolved inflammation in response to toxic environmental stimuli. Persistent exposure to PM is a major risk factor for COPD, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Using our established mouse model of PM-induced COPD, we find that repeated PM exposure provokes macrophage-centered chronic inflammation and COPD development. Mechanistically, chronic PM exposure induces transcriptional downregulation of HAAO, KMO, KYNU, and QPRT in macrophages, which are the enzymes of de novo NAD+ synthesis pathway (kynurenine pathway; KP), via elevated chromatin binding of the CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) near the transcriptional regulatory regions of the enzymes. Subsequent reduction of NAD+ and SIRT1 function increases histone acetylation, resulting in elevated expression of pro-inflammatory genes in PM-exposed macrophages. Activation of SIRT1 by nutraceutical resveratrol mitigated PM-induced chronic inflammation and COPD development. In agreement, increased levels of histone acetylation and decreased expression of KP enzymes were observed in pulmonary macrophages of COPD patients. We newly provide an evidence that dysregulated NAD+ metabolism and consecutive SIRT1 deficiency significantly contribute to the pathological activation of macrophages during PM-mediated COPD pathogenesis. Additionally, targeting PM-induced intertwined metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming in macrophages is an effective strategy for COPD treatment.

Curcumin and Resveratrol: Nutraceuticals with so Much Potential for Pseudoachondroplasia and Other ER-Stress Conditions

Natural products with health benefits, nutraceuticals, have shown considerable promise in many studies; however, this potential has yet to translate into widespread clinical use for any condition. Notably, many drugs currently on the market, including the first analgesic aspirin, are derived from plant extracts, emphasizing the historical significance of natural products in drug development. Curcumin and resveratrol, well-studied nutraceuticals, have excellent safety profiles with relatively mild side effects. Their long history of safe use and the natural origins of numerous drugs contrast with the unfavorable reputation associated with nutraceuticals. This review aims to explore the nutraceutical potential for treating pseudoachondroplasia, a rare dwarfing condition, by relating the mechanisms of action of curcumin and resveratrol to molecular pathology. Specifically, we will examine the curcumin and resveratrol mechanisms of action related to endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, oxidative stress, cartilage health, and pain. Additionally, the barriers to the effective use of nutraceuticals will be discussed. These challenges include poor bioavailability, variations in content and purity that lead to inconsistent results in clinical trials, as well as prevailing perceptions among both the public and medical professionals. Addressing these hurdles is crucial to realizing the full therapeutic potential of nutraceuticals in the context of pseudoachondroplasia and other health conditions that might benefit.

Research progress on rodent models and its mechanisms of liver injury

The liver is the most important organ for biological transformation in the body and is crucial for maintaining the body's vital activities. Liver injury is a serious pathological condition that is commonly found in many liver diseases. It has a high incidence rate, is difficult to cure, and is prone to recurrence. Liver injury can cause serious harm to the body, ranging from mild to severe fatty liver disease. If the condition continues to worsen, it can lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, ultimately resulting in liver failure or liver cancer, which can seriously endanger human life and health. Therefore, establishing an rodent model that mimics the pathogenesis and severity of clinical liver injury is of great significance for better understanding the pathogenesis of liver injury patients and developing more effective clinical treatment methods. The author of this article summarizes common chemical liver injury models, immune liver injury models, alcoholic liver injury models, drug-induced liver injury models, and systematically elaborates on the modeling methods, mechanisms of action, pathways of action, and advantages or disadvantages of each type of model. The aim of this study is to establish reliable rodent models for researchers to use in exploring anti-liver injury and hepatoprotective drugs. By creating more accurate theoretical frameworks, we hope to provide new insights into the treatment of clinical liver injury diseases.

A narrative review on dietary components and patterns and age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most prevalent eye diseases among the ageing population worldwide. It is a leading cause of blindness in individuals over 55, particularly in industrialised Western countries. The prevalence of AMD increases with age, and genetic factors and environmental influences are believed to contribute to its development. Among the environmental factors, diet plays a significant role in AMD. This review explores the association between dietary components, dietary patterns and AMD. Various nutrients, non-nutrient substances and dietary models that have the potential to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, which are underlying mechanisms of AMD, are discussed. Consuming fruits, vegetables, fish and seafood, whole grains, olive oil, nuts and low-glycaemic-index foods has been highlighted as beneficial for reducing the risk of AMD. Adhering to the Mediterranean diet, which encompasses these elements, can be recommended as a dietary pattern for AMD. Furthermore, the modulation of the gut microbiota through dietary interventions and probiotics has shown promise in managing AMD.

Intra-tumor ROS amplification by melatonin interferes in the apoptosis-autophagy-inflammation-EMT collusion in the breast tumor microenvironment

Epidemiological as well as experimental studies have established that the pineal hormone melatonin has inhibitory effects on different types of cancers. Several mechanisms have been proposed for the anticancer activities of melatonin, but the fundamental molecular pathways still require clarity. We developed a mouse model of breast cancer using Ehrlich's ascites carcinoma (injected in the 4th mammary fat pad of female Swiss albino mice) and investigated the possibility of targeting the autophagy-inflammation-EMT colloquy to restrict breast tumor progression using melatonin as intervention. Contrary to its conventional antioxidant role, melatonin was shown to augment intracellular ROS and initiate ROS-dependent apoptosis in our system, by modulating the p53/JNK & NF-κB/pJNK expressions/interactions. Melatonin-induced ROS promoted SIRT1 activity. Interplay between SIRT1 and NF-κB/p65 is known to play a pivotal role in regulating the crosstalk between autophagy and inflammation. Persistent inflammation in the tumor microenvironment and subsequent activation of the IL-6/STAT3/NF-κB feedback loop promoted EMT and suppression of autophagy through activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Melatonin disrupted NF-κB/SIRT1 interactions blocking IL-6/STAT3/NF-κB pathway. This led to reversal of pro-inflammatory bias in the breast tumor microenvironment and augmented autophagic responses. The interactions between p62/Twist1, NF-κB/Beclin1 and NF-κB/Slug were altered by melatonin to strike a balance between autophagy, inflammation and EMT, leading to tumor regression. This study provides critical insights into how melatonin could be utilized in treating breast cancer via inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling and differential modulation of SIRT1 and NF-κB proteins, leading to the establishment of apoptotic and autophagic fates in breast cancer cells.

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) deacetylase SIRT1 targets p53 to suppress apoptosis in a KAT8 dependent or independent manner

Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) is known as a deacetylase to control various physiological processes. In mammals, SIRT1 inhibits apoptotic process, but the detailed mechanism is not very clear. Here, our study revealed that grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) SIRT1 (CiSIRT1, MN125614.1) inhibits apoptosis through targeting p53 in a KAT8-dependent or a KAT8-independent manner. In CIK cells, CiSIRT1 over-expression results in significant decrease of some apoptotic gene expressions, including Bax/Bcl2, caspase3 and caspase9, whereas CiKAT8 or Cip53 facilitates the induction of apoptosis. Because CiSIRT1 separately interacted with CiKAT8 and Cip53, we speculated that CiSIRT1 blocked apoptosis may be by virtue of KAT8-p53 axis or directly by p53. In a KAT8-dependent manner, CiSIRT1 interacted with CiKAT8, then reduced the acetylation of CiKAT8 and subsequently promoted its degradation. Then, CiKAT8 acetylated p53 and induced p53-mediated apoptosis. MYST domain of CiKAT8 was critical in this pathway. In a KAT8-independent manner, CiSIRT1 also inhibited p53-induced apoptosis by directly deacetylating p53 and promoting the degradation of p53. Generally, these findings uncovered two pathways in which CiSIRT1 decreases the acetylation of p53 via a KAT8-dependent or a KAT8-independent manner.

The Pharmacological Potential of Resveratrol in Reducing Soft Tissue Damage in Osteoarthritis Patients

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage and bone underneath the joint to break down. This causes pain and stiffness. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound found in various vegetables, fruits, and red wine, has been studied for its beneficial effects on osteoarthritis. Resveratrol has been shown to target a variety of pathways, including the NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, MAPK/ERK, and AMPK pathways. In particular, resveratrol has been studied for its potential use in treating osteoarthritis, and it has been shown to reduce inflammation, reduce cartilage degradation, and improve joint function. In this review, we discuss the evidence for the pharmacological use of resveratrol in minimizing soft tissue damage associated with osteoarthritis. We summarize the studies on how resveratrol has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects, as well as effects on cartilage degradation, osteoblast and synoviocyte proliferation, and cytokine production. We also discuss the possible mechanisms of action of resveratrol in osteoarthritis and its potential as a therapeutic agent. Finally, we discuss the potential risks and adverse effects of long-term resveratrol supplementation. Overall, resveratrol has been found to be a possible treatment for osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties, and its ability to control the production of enzymes that break down cartilage, osteoblasts, and synoviocytes. Although numerous clinical studies have demonstrated resveratrol's efficacy as an osteoarthritis management agent, further long-term studies are needed to better understand the safety and potential benefits of using resveratrol for osteoarthritis management.

J147 affects cognition and anxiety after surgery in Zucker rats

Vulnerable patients are at risk for neuroinflammation-mediated post-operative complications, including depression (POD) and cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Zucker rats, expressing multiple risk factors for post-operative complications in humans, may provide a clinically relevant model to study pathophysiology and explore potential interventions. J147, a newly developed anti-dementia drug, was shown to prevent POCD in young healthy rats, and improved early post-surgical recovery in Zucker rats. Aim of the present study was to investigate POCD and the therapeutic potential of J147 in male Zucker rats. Risk factors in the Zucker rat strain were evaluated by comparison with lean littermates. Zucker rats were subjected to major abdominal surgery. Acute J147 treatment was provided by a single iv injection (10 mg/kg) at the start of surgery, while chronic J147 treatment was provided in the food (aimed at 30 mg/kg/day), starting one week before surgery and up to end of protocol. Effects on behavior were assessed, and plasma, urine and brain tissue were collected and processed for immunohistochemistry and molecular analyses. Indeed, Zucker rats displayed increased risk factors for POCD, including obesity, high plasma triglycerides, low grade systemic inflammation, impaired spatial learning and decreased neurogenesis. Surgery in Zucker rats reduced exploration and increased anxiety in the Open Field test, impaired short-term spatial memory, induced a shift in circadian rhythm and increased plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), microglia activity in the CA1 and blood brain barrier leakage. Chronic, but not acute J147 treatment reduced anxiety in the Open Field test and protected against the spatial memory decline. Moreover, chronic J147 increased glucose sensitivity. Acute J147 treatment improved long-term spatial memory and reversed the circadian rhythm shift. No anti-inflammatory effects were seen for J147. Although Zucker rats displayed risk factors, surgery did not induce extensive POCD. However, increased anxiety may indicate POD. Treatment with J147 showed positive effects on behavioral and metabolic parameters, but did not affect (neuro)inflammation. The mixed effect of acute and chronic treatment may suggest a combination for optimal treatment.

Screening and identification of key biomarkers associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and depression using bioinformatics

This study aims to identify common molecular biomarkers between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and depression using bioinformatics methods, in order to provide potential targets and new ideas and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. Microarray datasets GSE139384, GSE35978 and GSE87610 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ALS and depression were identified. After screening for overlapping DEGs, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed. Furthermore, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database and Cytoscape software, and hub genes were identified. Finally, a network between miRNAs and hub genes was constructed using the NetworkAnalyst tool, and possible key miRNAs were predicted. A total of 357 genes have been identified as common DEGs between ALS and depression. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of the 357 DEGs showed that they were mainly involved in cytoplasmic translation. Further analysis of the PPI network using Cytoscape and MCODE plugins identified 6 hub genes, including mitochondrial ribosomal protein S12 (MRPS12), poly(rC) binding protein 1 (PARP1), SNRNP200, PCBP1, small G protein signaling modulator 1 (SGSM1), and DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). Five possible target miRNAs, including miR-221-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-100-5p, miR-30b-5p, and miR-615-3p, were predicted by constructing a miRNA-gene network. This study used bioinformatics techniques to explore the potential association between ALS and depression, and identified potential biomarkers. These biomarkers may provide new ideas and methods for the early diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of ALS and depression.

The Nutriepigenome

Unlike genetic changes, epigenetics modulates gene expression without stable modification of the genome. Even though all cells, including sperm and egg, have an epigenome pattern, most of these modifications occur during lifetime and interestingly, some of them, are reversible. Lifestyle and especially nutrients as well as diet regimens are presently gaining importance due to their ability to affect the epigenome. On the other hand, since the epigenome profoundly affects gene expression profile it can be speculated that the epigenome could modulate individual response to nutrients. Recent years have thus seen growing interest on nutrients, macronutrients ratio and diet regimens capable to affect the epigenetic pattern. In fact, while genetic alterations are mostly detrimental at the individual level, reshaping the epigenome may be a feasible strategy to positively counteract the detrimental effect of aging. Here, I review nutrient consumption and diet regimens as a possible strategy to counteract aging-driven epigenome derangement.

Disorders of Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants in Neurological Diseases

In diseases of the central nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), and even epilepsy and migraine, oxidative stress load commonly surpasses endogenous antioxidative capacity. While oxidative processes have been robustly implicated in the pathogenesis of these diseases, the significance of particular antioxidants, both endogenous and especially exogenous, in maintaining redox homeostasis requires further research. Among endogenous antioxidants, enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase are central to disabling free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative damage to cellular lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Whether supplementation with endogenously occurring antioxidant compounds such as melatonin and glutathione carries any benefit, however, remains equivocal. Similarly, while the health benefits of certain exogenous antioxidants, including ascorbic acid (vitamin C), carotenoids, polyphenols, sulforaphanes, and anthocyanins are commonly touted, their clinical efficacy and effectiveness in particular neurological disease contexts need to be more robustly defined. Here, we review the current literature on the cellular mechanisms mitigating oxidative stress and comment on the possible benefit of the most common exogenous antioxidants in diseases such as AD, PD, ALS, HD, stroke, epilepsy, and migraine. We selected common neurological diseases of a basically neurodegenerative nature.

Distinct signatures on d-galactose-induced aging and preventive/protective potency of two low-dose vitamin D supplementation regimens on working memory, muscular damage, cardiac and cerebral oxidative stress, and SIRT1 and calstabin2 downregulation

Chronic administration of d-galactose (d-gal) in rodents reproduces the overproduction of reactive oxygen species of physiological aging. The present research shows for the first time distinct signatures on d-gal-induced aging (500 mg/kg, 6 weeks) and the preventive and protective potential of two vitamin D (50 IU) supplementation regimens (pre-induction and simultaneous, respectively) in two vital organs (heart and brain). d-gal-induced notorious alterations in working memory, a strong increase in brain malondialdehyde (MDA) oxidative levels, and strong downregulation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in the heart and hippocampus and of calstabin2 in the heart. Cardiac and brain superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzymatic antioxidant capacities were damaged, brain calstabin2 was downregulated, and neuropathology was observed. Heart damage also included a moderate increase in MDA levels, serologic lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total creatine kinase (CK) activities, and histopathological alterations. The used dose of vitamin D was enough to prevent cognitive impairment, avoid muscular damage, hamper cardiac and cerebral oxidative stress, and SIRT1 and calstabin2 downregulation. Most importantly, the potencies of the two preventive schedules depended on the tissue and level of study. The pre-induction schedule prevented d-gal-induced aging by 1 order of magnitude higher than simultaneous administration in all the variables studied except for SIRT1, whose strong downregulation induced by d-gal was equally prevented by both schedules. The benefits of vitamin D for oxidative stress were stronger in the brain than in the heart. Brain MDA levels were more sensitive to damage, while SOD and GPx antioxidant enzymatic activities were in the heart. In this order, the magnitude of SOD, MDA, and GPx oxidative stress markers was sensitive to prevention. In summary, the results unveiled distinct aging induction, preventive signatures, and sensitivity of markers depending on different levels of study and tissues, which are relevant from a mechanistic view and in the design of targeted interventions.

Cogs in the autophagic machine-equipped to combat dementia-prone neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are often characterized by hydrophobic inclusion bodies, and it may be the case that the aggregate-prone proteins that comprise these inclusion bodies are in fact the cause of neurotoxicity. Indeed, the appearance of protein aggregates leads to a proteostatic imbalance that causes various interruptions in physiological cellular processes, including lysosomal and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as break down in calcium homeostasis. Oftentimes the approach to counteract proteotoxicity is taken to merely upregulate autophagy, measured by an increase in autophagosomes, without a deeper assessment of contributors toward effective turnover through autophagy. There are various ways in which autophagy is regulated ranging from the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) to acetylation status of proteins. Healthy mitochondria and the intracellular energetic charge they preserve are key for the acidification status of lysosomes and thus ensuring effective clearance of components through the autophagy pathway. Both mitochondria and lysosomes have been shown to bear functional protein complexes that aid in the regulation of autophagy. Indeed, it may be the case that minimizing the proteins associated with the respective neurodegenerative pathology may be of greater importance than addressing molecularly their resulting inclusion bodies. It is in this context that this review will dissect the autophagy signaling pathway, its control and the manner in which it is molecularly and functionally connected with the mitochondrial and lysosomal system, as well as provide a summary of the role of autophagy dysfunction in driving neurodegenerative disease as a means to better position the potential of rapamycin-mediated bioactivities to control autophagy favorably.

From Plants to Psycho-Neurology: Unravelling the Therapeutic Benefits of Bioactive Compounds in Brain Disorders

The brain's sensitivity to oxidative stress and neuronal cell death requires effective pharmacotherapy approaches. Current pharmacological therapies are frequently ineffective and display negative side effects. Bioactive chemicals found in plants may provide a potential alternative due to their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties and can be used in therapy and the management of a variety of neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative illnesses. Several natural products, including vitamin C, Cammelia sinensis polyphenols, Hypericum perforatum, and Crocus sativus have shown promise in lowering oxidative stress and treating symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). Similarly, bioactive compounds such as curcumin, luteolin, resveratrol, quercetin, and plants like Acorus gramineus, Rhodiola rosea, and Ginkgo biloba are associated with neuroprotective effects and symptom improvement in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, in neurodegenerative diseases, natural compounds from Rhodiola rosea, Morinda lucida, and Glutinous rehmannia provide neurological improvement. Further study in clinical samples is required to thoroughly investigate the therapeutic advantages of these bioactive substances for persons suffering from these illnesses.

Relating aging and autophagy: a new perspective towards the welfare of human health

The most common factor that contributes to aging is the loss of proteostasis, resulting in an excess amount of non-functional/damaged proteins. These proteins lead to various age-associated phenotypes such as cellular senescence and dysfunction in the nutrient-sensing pathways. Despite the various factors that can contribute to aging, it is still a process that can be changed. According to recent advances in the field of biology, the ability to alter the pathways that are involved in aging can improve the lifespan of a person. Autophagy is a process that helps in preserving survival during stressful situations, such as starvation. It is a common component of various anti-aging interventions, including those that target the insulin/IGF-1 and rapamycin signaling pathways. It has been shown that altered autophagy is a common feature of old age and its impaired regulation could have significant effects on the aging process. This review aims to look into the role of autophagy in aging and how it can be used to improve one's health.

Dietary polyphenols drive dose-dependent behavioral and molecular alterations to repeated morphine

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is associated with tremendous morbidity and mortality. Despite this burden, current pharmacotherapies for OUD are ineffective or intolerable for many patients. As such, interventions aimed at promoting resilience against OUD are of immense clinical interest. Treatment with a Bioactive Dietary Polyphenol Preparation (BDPP) promotes resilience and adaptive neuroplasticity in multiple models of neuropsychiatric disease. Here, we assessed effects of BDPP treatment on behavioral and molecular responses to repeated morphine treatment in male mice. BDPP pre-treatment alters responses for both locomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference. Most notably, polyphenol treatment consistently reduced formation of preference at low dose (5 mg/kg) morphine but enhanced it at high dose (15 mg/kg). In parallel, we performed transcriptomic profiling of the nucleus accumbens, which again showed a dose × polyphenol interaction. We also profiled microbiome composition and function, as polyphenols are metabolized by the microbiome and can act as prebiotics. The profile revealed polyphenol treatment markedly altered microbiome composition and function. Finally, we investigated involvement of the SIRT1 deacetylase, and the role of polyphenol metabolites in behavioral responses. These results demonstrate polyphenols have robust dose-dependent effects on behavioral and physiological responses to morphine and lay the foundation for future translational work.

Interplay between Systemic Glycemia and Neuroprotective Activity of Resveratrol in Modulating Astrocyte SIRT1 Response to Neuroinflammation

The flow of substances between the blood and the central nervous system is precisely regulated by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Its disruption due to unbalanced blood glucose levels (hyper- and hypoglycemia) occurring in metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, can lead to neuroinflammation, and increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases. One of the most studied natural anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective compounds is resveratrol (RSV). It activates sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a key metabolism regulator dependent on cell energy status. The aim of this study was to assess the astrocyte SIRT1 response to neuroinflammation and subsequent RSV treatment, depending on systemic glycemia. For this purpose, we used an optimized in vitro model of the BBB consisting of endothelial cells and astrocytes, representing microvascular and brain compartments (MC and BC), in different glycemic backgrounds. Astrocyte-secreted SIRT1 reached the highest concentration in hypo-, the lowest in normo-, and the lowest in hyperglycemic backgrounds. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation caused a substantial decrease in SIRT1 in all glycemic backgrounds, as observed earliest in hyperglycemia. RSV partially counterbalanced the effect of LPS on SIRT1 secretion, most remarkably in normoglycemia. Our results suggest that abnormal glycemic states have a worse prognosis for RSV-therapy effectiveness compared to normoglycemia.

Resveratrol as a circadian clock modulator: mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications

In the past decades, resveratrol has gained increasing attention due to its versatile and beneficial properties. This natural polyphenol, commonly present in the human diet, has been shown to induce SIRT1 and to modulate the circadian rhythm at the cellular and organismal levels. The circadian clock is a system regulating behavior and function of the human body, thus playing a crucial role in health maintenance. It is primarily entrained by light-dark cycles; however, other factors such as feeding-fasting, oxygen and temperature cycles play a significant role in its regulation. Chronic circadian misalignment can lead to numerous pathologies, including metabolic disorders, age-related diseases or cancer. Therefore, the use of resveratrol may be a valuable preventive and/or therapeutic strategy for these pathologies. This review summarizes studies that evaluated the modulatory effect of resveratrol on circadian oscillators by focusing on the potential and limitations of resveratrol in biological clock-related disorders.

Blueberry Supplementation and Skin Health

Environmental stressors such as air pollutants, ozone, and UV radiation are among the most noxious outdoor stressors affecting human skin and leading to premature skin aging. To prevent the extrinsic aging, the skin is equipped with an effective defensive system. However, cutaneous defense mechanisms can be overwhelmed through chronic exposure to environmental pollutants. Recent studies have suggested that the topical usage of natural compounds, such as blueberries, could be a good strategy to prevent skin damage from the environment. Indeed, blueberries contain bioactive compounds found to induce an active skin response against the environmental noxious effects. In this review, results from recent studies on this topic are discussed in order to build the argument for blueberries to possibly be an effective agent for skin health. In addition, we hope to highlight the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms behind the use of both topical application and dietary supplementation with blueberries to bolster cutaneous systems and defensive mechanisms.

The role of Sirtuin 1 and its activators in age-related lung disease

Aging is a major driving factor in lung diseases. Age-related lung disease is associated with downregulated expression of SIRT1, an NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase that regulates inflammation and stress resistance. SIRT1 acts by inducing the deacetylation of various substrates and regulates several mechanisms that relate to lung aging, such as genomic instability, lung stem cell exhaustion, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere shortening, and immune senescence. Chinese herbal medicines have many biological activities, exerting anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, and immune regulatory effects. Recent studies have confirmed that many Chinese herbs have the effect of activating SIRT1. Therefore, we reviewed the mechanism of SIRT1 in age-related lung disease and explored the potential roles of Chinese herbs as SIRT1 activators in the treatment of age-related lung disease.

Resveratrol in Neurodegeneration, in Neurodegenerative Diseases, and in the Redox Biology of the Mitochondria

Neurodegeneration is a process leading to the progressive loss of structure and functions of neurons. Many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease have shown many common points at the subcellular level. Neurons are metabolically active cells and need a high amount of energy. Mitochondria are known as the energy synthesis center for cells, involved in the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate by oxidative phosphorylation. Rather than just being an energy synthesis center, it has critical importance for many cellular functions such as calcium homeostasis, cell proliferation, cell growth, and apoptosis. In the process of mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular functions are disrupted and cells enter the apoptotic or necrotic pathway. Resveratrol (trans-3,5,4-trihydoxystilbene), a plant-derived polyphenol found in the seed of grapes, berries, peanuts, and wine, has many biological effects such as inhibition of lipid peroxidation, scavenging of free radicals, changes in eicosanoid synthesis, inhibition of platelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity, and regulation of lipid metabolism. Through the reviewed literature, the current study investigated the protective role of resveratrol in neurodegenerative diseases. Studies show that resveratrol moderates mitochondrial function, redox status, and cellular dynamics in both in vivo and in vitro experimental models of neurodegeneration. Resveratrol suppresses reactive oxygen species production by reducing the activity of complex III due to its competition effect with coenzyme Q. In the present work, we discussed the protective effects of resveratrol on neurodegeneration, neurodegenerative diseases, and the redox biology of the mitochondria.

Curcumin displays a potent caloric restriction mimetic effect in an accelerated senescent model of rat

Curcumin, a strong natural compound with numerous health benefits, is extracted from the Curcuma longa. According to recent research findings, it also acts as a calorie restriction mimetic. We examined established aging biomarkers in erythrocytes and plasma and tested a persistent oral dietary dose of curcumin in young and D-galactose-induced accelerated rat aging models. For four weeks, D-gal (300 mg/kg b.w. subcutaneously) and curcumin (200 mg/kg b.w. oral) were administered simultaneously to test the protective effects of curcumin against D-galactose-induced accelerated aging and oxidative stress. In the accelerated senescent rat model, we discovered a significant rise in protein carbonyl, malonaldehyde (MDA), and advanced oxidation protein products. Increased levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, ferric-reducing antioxidant potential, and reduced glutathione (GSH) were observed. Our findings reveal that curcumin has characteristics resembling a calorie restriction mimic and can successfully maintain redox equilibrium throughout the aging process in rat erythrocytes and plasma.

Sirtuin 1 as a potential biomarker of undernutrition in the elderly: a narrative review

Undernutrition and inflammatory processes are predictors of early mortality in the elderly and require a rapid and accurate diagnosis. Currently, there are laboratory markers for assessing nutritional status, but new markers are still being sought. Recent studies suggest that sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) has the potential to be a marker for undernutrition. This article summarizes available studies on the association of SIRT1 and undernutrition in older people. Possible associations between SIRT1 and the aging process, inflammation, and undernutrition in the elderly have been described. The literature suggests that low SIRT1 levels in the blood of older people may not be associated with physiological aging processes, but with an increased risk of severe undernutrition associated with inflammation and systemic metabolic changes.

Autophagy in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is a major complication of liver resection or liver transplantation that can seriously affect patient's prognosis. There is currently no definitive and effective treatment strategy for HIRI. Autophagy is an intracellular self-digestion pathway initiated to remove damaged organelles and proteins, which maintains cell survival, differentiation, and homeostasis. Recent studies have shown that autophagy is involved in the regulation of HIRI. Numerous drugs and treatments can change the outcome of HIRI by controlling the pathways of autophagy. This review mainly discusses the occurrence and development of autophagy, the selection of experimental models for HIRI, and the specific regulatory pathways of autophagy in HIRI. Autophagy has considerable potential in the treatment of HIRI.

Autophagy, a relevant process for metabolic health and type-2 diabetes

Autophagy is a very active process that plays an important role in cell and organ differentiation and remodelling, being a crucial system to guarantee health. This physiological process is activated in starvation and inhibited in the presence of nutrients. This short review comments on the three types of autophagy: macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy, as well as different aspects that control autophagy and its relationship with health and degenerative diseases. As autophagy is highly dependent on functional autophagy (ATG) proteins integrating the phagophore, the role of some key ATG genes and epigenes are briefly commented on. The manuscript deepens discussing some central aspects of type-2 diabetes mellitus and their relationship with the cell cleaning process and mitochondria homeostasis maintenance, as well as the mechanisms through which antidiabetic drugs affect autophagy. Well-designed studies are needed to elucidate whether autophagy plays a casual or causal role in T2DM.

Possible Side Effects of Polyphenols and Their Interactions with Medicines

Polyphenols are an important component of plant-derived food with a wide spectrum of beneficial effects on human health. For many years, they have aroused great interest, especially due to their antioxidant properties, which are used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Unfortunately, as with any chemical substance, depending on the conditions, dose, and interactions with the environment, it is possible for polyphenols to also exert harmful effects. This review presents a comprehensive current state of the knowledge on the negative impact of polyphenols on human health, describing the possible side effects of polyphenol intake, especially in the form of supplements. The review begins with a brief overview of the physiological role of polyphenols and their potential use in disease prevention, followed by the harmful effects of polyphenols which are exerted in particular situations. The individual chapters discuss the consequences of polyphenols’ ability to block iron uptake, which in some subpopulations can be harmful, as well as the possible inhibition of digestive enzymes, inhibition of intestinal microbiota, interactions of polyphenolic compounds with drugs, and impact on hormonal balance. Finally, the prooxidative activity of polyphenols as well as their mutagenic, carcinogenic, and genotoxic effects are presented. According to the authors, there is a need to raise public awareness about the possible side effects of polyphenols supplementation, especially in the case of vulnerable subpopulations.

17beta-estradiol alleviates contusion-induced skeletal muscle injury by decreasing oxidative stress via SIRT1/PGC-1α/Nrf2 pathway

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the role of 17β-estradiol (E₂) in the repair of contusion-induced myoinjury in mice and to identify the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

In vivo, contusion protocol was performed for preparing mice myoinjury model, and Injection (i.p.) of 17β-estradiol (E₂) or estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780, or ovariectomy (OVX), was used to alter estrogen level of animal models. In vitro, C₂C₁₂ myoblasts were treated with H₂O₂ (oxidative stress inducer), SIRT1 inhibitor EX527, or aromatase inhibitor anastrozole. Serum E₂ level was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Muscle damage repair was evaluated by H&E staining and the activities of serum creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The oxidative stress was estimated by the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, PGC-1α, Nrf2, and HO-1.

RESULTS

We observed the elevated serum E₂ levels and the upregulated oxidative stress in damaged muscle in female mice after contusion-induction. The E₂ administration in vivo alleviated contusion-induced myoinjury in OVX mice by reducing CK and LDH activities, suppressing oxidative stress, and enhancing the expression levels of SIRT1, PGC-1α, Nrf2, and HO-1. These effects were inhibited by treatment with an ERα/β antagonist. Moreover, EX527 or anastrozole treatment exacerbated H₂O₂-induced growth inhibition and oxidative stress, and expression downregulation of SIRT1, PGC-1α, Nrf2, and HO-1 in C₂C₁₂ cells in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that E₂ is a positive intervention factor for muscle repair followed contusion-induced myoinjury, through its effects on suppressing oxidative stress via activating the SIRT1/PGC-1α/Nrf2 pathway.

Curcumin effects on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review

Introduction

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common disease of the lungs known as the third reason for death worldwide. Frequent COPD exacerbations compel health care workers to apply interventions that are not adverse effect free. Accordingly, adding or replacing Curcumin, a natural meal flavoring, may indicate advantages in this era by its antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects.

Methods

The PRISMA checklist was employed for the systematic review study. On June 3, 2022, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies associated with COPD and Curcumin in the last 10 years. Duplicate or non-English publications and articles with irrelevant titles and abstracts were excluded. Also, preprints, reviews, short communications, editorials, letters to the editor, comments, conference abstracts, and conference papers were not included.

Results

Overall, 4288 publications were found eligible, after the screening, 9 articles were finally included. Among them, one, four, and four in vitro, in vivo, and both in vivo and in vitro research exist respectively. According to the investigations, Curcumin can inhibit alveolar epithelial thickness and proliferation, lessen the inflammatory response, remodel the airway, produce ROS, alleviate airway inflammation, hinder emphysema and prevent ischemic complications.

Conclusion

Consequently, the findings of the current review demonstrate that Curcumin's modulatory effects on oxidative stress, cell viability, and gene expression could be helpful in COPD management. However, for data confirmation, further randomized clinical trials are required.

Dietary Polyphenols and Obesity: A Review of Polyphenol Effects on Lipid and Glucose Metabolism, Mitochondrial Homeostasis, and Starch Digestibility and Absorption

Obesity is a major global public health concern, limiting socio-economic development and human productivity. As studies focus on finding sustainable solutions to this challenge, polyphenols have shown promising results and have become a research focus. This is mainly because of associated lower risks of side effects with their use, compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. In this study, the anti-obesity potentials of dietary polyphenols have been reviewed. Using a narrative approach, the biological activities of polyphenols and their influence on energy metabolism and mechanisms are discussed. Specifically, their roles in insulin-dependent glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism and storage in adipocytes, starch digestibility, and regulation of mitophagy and mitogenesis in muscle cells and adipocytes, were considered. After considering the major findings of many related studies, it was confirmed that polyphenols can prevent and ameliorate obesity by fighting insulin resistance (IR) induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines, scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and limiting their effects, and by regulating the expression and/or activity of key enzymes along relevant pathways. More human studies are needed to reveal more about the anti-obesity effects of dietary polyphenols and their effective doses in humans.

Improvement of oocyte quality through the SIRT signaling pathway

Background

Oocyte quality is one of the major deciding factors in female fertility competence.

Methods

PubMed database was searched for reviews by using the following keyword "oocyte quality" AND "Sirtuins". The methodological quality of each literature review was assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement.

Main Findings

Oxidative stress has been recognized as the mechanism attenuating oocyte quality. Increasing evidence from animal experiments and clinical studies has confirmed the protective roles of the sirtuin family in improving oocyte quality via an antioxidant effect.

Conclusion

The protective roles in the oocyte quality of the sirtuin family have been increasingly recognized.

Bioactivity, Molecular Mechanism, and Targeted Delivery of Flavonoids for Bone Loss

Skeletal disabilities are a prominent burden on the present population with an increasing life span. Advances in osteopathy have provided various medical support for bone-related diseases, including pharmacological and prosthesis interventions. However, therapeutics and post-surgery complications are often reported due to side effects associated with modern-day therapies. Thus, therapies utilizing natural means with fewer toxic or other side effects are the key to acceptable interventions. Flavonoids constitute a class of bioactive compounds found in dietary supplements, and their pharmacological attributes have been well appreciated. Recently, flavonoids' role is gaining renowned interest for its effect on bone remodeling. A wide range of flavonoids has been found to play a pivotal role in the major bone signaling pathways, such as wingless-related integration site (Wnt)/β-catenin, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)/transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), etc. However, the reduced bioavailability and the absorption of flavonoids are the major limitations inhibiting their use against bone-related complications. Recent utilization of nanotechnological approaches and other delivery methods (biomaterial scaffolds, micelles) to target and control release can enhance the absorption and bioavailability of flavonoids. Thus, we have tried to recapitulate the understanding of the role of flavonoids in regulating signaling mechanisms affecting bone remodeling and various delivery methods utilized to enhance their therapeutical potential in treating bone loss.

Garcinol Promotes the Formation of Slow-Twitch Muscle Fibers by Inhibiting p300-Dependent Acetylation of PGC-1α

The conversion of skeletal muscle fiber from fast-twitch to slow-twitch is crucial for sustained contractile and stretchable events, energy homeostasis, and anti-fatigue ability. The purpose of our study was to explore the mechanism and effects of garcinol on the regulation of skeletal muscle fiber type transformation. Forty 21-day-old male C57/BL6J mice (n = 10/diet) were fed a control diet or a control diet plus garcinol at 100 mg/kg (Low Gar), 300 mg/kg (Mid Gar), or 500 mg/kg (High Gar) for 12 weeks. The tibialis anterior (TA) and soleus muscles were collected for protein and immunoprecipitation analyses. Dietary garcinol significantly downregulated (p < 0.05) fast myosin heavy chain (MyHC) expression and upregulated (p < 0.05) slow MyHC expression in the TA and soleus muscles. Garcinol significantly increased (p < 0.05) the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma co-activator 1α (PGC-1α) and markedly decreased (p < 0.05) the acetylation of PGC-1α. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that garcinol decreased (p < 0.05) lactate dehydrogenase activity and increased (p < 0.05) the activities of malate dehydrogenase and succinic dehydrogenase. In addition, the results of C2C12 myotubes showed that garcinol treatment increased (p < 0.05) the transformation of glycolytic muscle fiber to oxidative muscle fiber by 45.9%. Garcinol treatment and p300 interference reduced (p < 0.05) the expression of fast MyHC but increased (p < 0.05) the expression of slow MyHC in vitro. Moreover, the acetylation of PGC-1α was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Garcinol promotes the transformation of skeletal muscle fibers from the fast-glycolytic type to the slow-oxidative type through the p300/PGC-1α signaling pathway in C2C12 myotubes.

Cocoa Polyphenol Extract Inhibits Cellular Senescence via Modulation of SIRT1 and SIRT3 in Auditory Cells

Cocoa, rich in polyphenols, has been reported to provide many health benefits due to its antioxidant properties. In this study, we investigated the effect of Cocoa polyphenols extract (CPE) against oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence using a hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced cellular senescence model in three auditory cells lines derived from the auditory organ of a transgenic mouse: House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 (HEI-OC1), Organ of Corti-3 (OC-k3), and Stria Vascularis (SV-k1) cells. Our results showed that CPE attenuated senescent phenotypes, including senescence-associated β-galactosidase expression, cell proliferation, alterations of morphology, oxidative DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction by inhibiting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) generation, and related molecules expressions such as forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) and p53. In addition, we determined that CPE induces expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), and it has a protective role against cellular senescence by upregulation of SIRT1 and SIRT3. These data indicate that CPE protects against senescence through SIRT1, SIRT3, FOXO3, and p53 in auditory cells. In conclusion, these results suggest that Cocoa has therapeutic potential against age-related hearing loss (ARHL).

The Effect of a Hydroxytyrosol-Rich, Olive-Derived Phytocomplex on Aerobic Exercise and Acute Recovery

There is current scientific interest in naturally sourced phenolic compounds and their potential benefits to health, as well as the effective role polyphenols may provide in an exercise setting. This study investigated the chronic effects of supplementation with a biodynamic and organic olive fruit water phytocomplex (OliPhenolia® [OliP]), rich in hydroxytyrosol (HT), on submaximal and exhaustive exercise performance and respiratory markers of recovery. Twenty-nine recreationally active participants (42 ± 2 yrs; 71.1 ± 2.1 kg; 1.76 ± 0.02 m) consumed 2 × 28 mL∙d−1 of OliP or a taste- and appearance-matched placebo (PL) over 16 consecutive days. Participants completed a demanding, aerobic exercise protocol at ~75% maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max) for 65 min 24 h before sub- and maximal performance exercise tests prior to and following the 16-day consumption period. OliP reduced the time constant (τ) (p = 0.005) at the onset of exercise, running economy (p = 0.015) at lactate threshold 1 (LT1), as well as the rating of perceived exertion (p = 0.003) at lactate turnpoint (LT2). Additionally, OliP led to modest improvements in acute recovery based upon a shorter time to achieve 50% of the end of exercise V˙O2 value (p = 0.02). Whilst OliP increased time to exhaustion (+4.1 ± 1.8%), this was not significantly different to PL (p > 0.05). Phenolic compounds present in OliP, including HT and related metabolites, may provide benefits for aerobic exercise and acute recovery in recreationally active individuals. Further research is needed to determine whether dose-response or adjunct use of OliP alongside longer-term training programs can further modulate exercise-associated adaptations in recreationally active individuals, or indeed support athletic performance.

Understanding the Impact of Obesity on Ageing in the Radiance of DNA Metabolism

Ageing is a multi-factorial phenomenon which is considered as a major risk factor for the development of neurodegeneration, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, dementia, cancer, and other chronic diseases. Phenotypically, ageing is related with a combination of molecular, cellular, and physiological levels like genomic and epi-genomic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulation of cellular and subcellular function and mitochondrial dysfunction. Though, no single molecular mechanism accounts for the functional decline of different organ systems in older humans but accumulation of DNA damage or mutations is a dominant theory which contributes largely to the development of ageing and age-related diseases. However, mechanistic, and hierarchical order of these features of ageing has not been clarified yet. Scientific community now focus on the effect of obesity on accelerated ageing process. Obesity is a complex chronic disease that affects multiple organs and tissues. It can not only lead to various health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease but also can decrease life expectancy which shows similar phenotype of ageing. Higher loads of DNA damage were also observed in the genome of obese people. Thus, inability of DNA damage repair may contribute to both ageing and obesity apart from cancer predisposition. The present review emphasizes on the involvement of molecular phenomenon of DNA metabolism in development of obesity and how it accelerates ageing in mammals.

Nicotinamide n-Oxide Attenuates HSV-1-Induced Microglial Inflammation through Sirtuin-1/NF-κB Signaling

HSV-1 is a typical neurotropic virus that infects the brain and causes keratitis, cold sores, and occasionally, acute herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE). The large amount of proinflammatory cytokines induced by HSV-1 infection is an important cause of neurotoxicity in the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia, as resident macrophages in CNS, are the first line of defense against neurotropic virus infection. Inhibiting the excessive production of inflammatory cytokines in overactivated microglia is a crucial strategy for the treatment of HSE. In the present study, we investigated the effect of nicotinamide n-oxide (NAMO), a metabolite mainly produced by gut microbe, on HSV-1-induced microglial inflammation and HSE. We found that NAMO significantly inhibits the production of cytokines induced by HSV-1 infection of microglia, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. In addition, NAMO promotes the transition of microglia from the pro-inflammatory M1 type to the anti-inflammatory M2 type. More detailed studies revealed that NAMO enhances the expression of Sirtuin-1 and its deacetylase enzymatic activity, which in turn deacetylates the p65 subunit to inhibit NF-κB signaling, resulting in reduced inflammatory response and ameliorated HSE pathology. Therefore, Sirtuin-1/NF-κB axis may be promising therapeutic targets against HSV-1 infection-related diseases including HSE.

Crosstalk between Resveratrol and Gut Barrier: A Review

The plant-based nutraceuticals are receiving increasing interest in recent time. The high attraction to the phytochemicals is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can lead to reduced risk of the development of cardiovascular and other non-communicable diseases. One of the most disseminated groups of plant bioactives are phenolic compounds. It was recently hypothesized that phenolic compounds can have the ability to improve the functioning of the gut barrier. The available studies showed that one of the polyphenols, resveratrol, has great potential to improve the integrity of the gut barrier. Very promising results have been obtained with in vitro and animal models. Still, more clinical trials must be performed to evaluate the effect of resveratrol on the gut barrier, especially in individuals with increased intestinal permeability. Moreover, the interplay between phenolic compounds, intestinal microbiota and gut barrier should be carefully evaluated in the future. Therefore, this review offers an overview of the current knowledge about the interaction between polyphenols with a special emphasis on resveratrol and the gut barrier, summarizes the available methods to evaluate the intestinal permeability, discusses the current research gaps and proposes the directions for future studies in this research area.

Chrononutrition-When We Eat Is of the Essence in Tackling Obesity

Obesity is a chronic and relapsing public health problem with an extensive list of associated comorbidities. The worldwide prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled over the last five decades and continues to pose a serious threat to wider society and the wellbeing of future generations. The pathogenesis of obesity is complex but diet plays a key role in the onset and progression of the disease. The human diet has changed drastically across the globe, with an estimate that approximately 72% of the calories consumed today come from foods that were not part of our ancestral diets and are not compatible with our metabolism. Additionally, multiple nutrient-independent factors, e.g., cost, accessibility, behaviours, culture, education, work commitments, knowledge and societal set-up, influence our food choices and eating patterns. Much research has been focused on 'what to eat' or 'how much to eat' to reduce the obesity burden, but increasingly evidence indicates that 'when to eat' is fundamental to human metabolism. Aligning feeding patterns to the 24-h circadian clock that regulates a wide range of physiological and behavioural processes has multiple health-promoting effects with anti-obesity being a major part. This article explores the current understanding of the interactions between the body clocks, bioactive dietary components and the less appreciated role of meal timings in energy homeostasis and obesity.

SIRT1 Promotes Host Protective Immunity against Toxoplasma gondii by Controlling the FoxO-Autophagy Axis via the AMPK and PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathways

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) regulates cellular processes by deacetylating non-histone targets, including transcription factors and intracellular signalling mediators; thus, its abnormal activation is closely linked to the pathophysiology of several diseases. However, its function in Toxoplasma gondii infection is unclear. We found that SIRT1 contributes to autophagy activation via the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways, promoting anti-Toxoplasma responses. Myeloid-specific Sirt1-/- mice exhibited an increased cyst burden in brain tissue compared to wild-type mice following infection with the avirulent ME49 strain. Consistently, the intracellular survival of T. gondii was markedly increased in Sirt1-deficient bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). In contrast, the activation of SIRT1 by resveratrol resulted in not only the induction of autophagy but also a significantly increased anti-Toxoplasma effect. Notably, SIRT1 regulates the FoxO-autophagy axis in several human diseases. Importantly, the T. gondii-induced phosphorylation, acetylation, and cytosolic translocation of FoxO1 was enhanced in Sirt1-deficient BMDMs and the pharmacological inhibition of PI3K/AKT signalling reduced the cytosolic translocation of FoxO1 in BMDMs infected with T. gondii. Further, the CaMKK2-dependent AMPK signalling pathway is responsible for the effect of SIRT1 on the FoxO3a-autophagy axis and for its anti-Toxoplasma activity. Collectively, our findings reveal a previously unappreciated role for SIRT1 in Toxoplasma infection.

In Vivo Treatment with a Standardized Green Tea Extract Restores Cardiomyocyte Contractility in Diabetic Rats by Improving Mitochondrial Function through SIRT1 Activation

Background. Green tea catechins are known to promote mitochondrial function, and to modulate gene expression and signalling pathways that are altered in the diabetic heart. We thus evaluated the effectiveness of the in vivo administration of a standardized green tea extract (GTE) in restoring cardiac performance, in a rat model of early streptozotocin-induced diabetes, with a focus on the underlying mechanisms. Methods. Twenty-five male adult Wistar rats were studied: the control (n = 9), untreated diabetic animals (n = 7) and diabetic rats subjected to daily GTE administration for 28 days (n = 9). Isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes were used for ex vivo measurements of cell mechanics and calcium transients, and molecular assays, including the analysis of functional protein and specific miRNA expression. Results. GTE treatment induced an almost complete recovery of cardiomyocyte contractility that was markedly impaired in the diabetic cells, by preserving mitochondrial function and energy availability, and modulating the expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase and phospholamban. Increased Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression and activity substantially contributed to the observed cardioprotective effects. Conclusions. The data supported the hypothesis that green tea dietary polyphenols, by targeting SIRT1, can constitute an adjuvant strategy for counteracting the initial damage of the diabetic heart, before the occurrence of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Unravelling the Therapeutic Potential of Nano-Delivered Functional Foods in Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract is one of the most concerning public health issues, as it can lead to chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), some of which are more detrimental than others. Chronic respiratory diseases include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis. The conventional drug therapies for the management and treatment of CRDs only address the symptoms and fail to reverse or recover the chronic-inflammation-mediated structural and functional damage of the respiratory tract. In addition, the low efficacy and adverse effects of these drugs have directed the attention of researchers towards nutraceuticals in search of potential treatment strategies that can not only ameliorate CRD symptoms but also can repair and reverse inflammatory damage. Hence, there is a growing interest toward investigating the medicinal benefits of nutraceuticals, such as rutin, curcumin, zerumbone, and others. Nutraceuticals carry many nutritional and therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-obesity properties, and usually do not have as many adverse effects, as they are naturally sourced. Recently, the use of nanoparticles has also been increasingly studied for the nano drug delivery of these nutraceuticals. The discrete size of nanoparticles holds great potential for the level of permeability that can be achieved when transporting these nutraceutical compounds. This review is aimed to provide an understanding of the use of nutraceuticals in combination with nanoparticles against CRDs and their mechanisms involved in slowing down or reversing the progression of CRDs by inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling pathways.

Quercetin Increases Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Reduces Free Radicals in Neuronal SH-SY5Y Cells

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that causes dementia and affects millions of people worldwide. The mechanism underlying AD is unclear; however, oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis have been reported to be involved in AD progression. Previous research has also reported the reduction in mitochondrial biogenesis in the brains of patients with AD. Quercetin (QE), a type of polyphenol, has been found to be capable of increasing mitochondrial biogenesis in the body. Accordingly, we explored whether QE could reduce amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation caused by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells. Our results revealed that QE stimulated the expression of mitochondrial-related proteins such as SIRT1, PGC-1α, and TFAM and subsequently activated mitochondrial biogenesis. Additionally, QE increased ADAM10 expression but reduced H₂O₂-induced reactive oxygen species production, apoptosis, β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 expression, and Aβ accumulation in the SH-SY5Y cells. These findings indicate that QE can effectively elevate mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins and reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress, making it a promising option for protecting neuronal cells.