Silibinin ameliorates hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in mice with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis by regulating CFLAR-JNK pathway

Electroacupuncture relieves type 2 diabetes by regulating gut microbiome

Cumulative studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Electroacupuncture (EA) therapy has been reported to alleviate various diseases, including T2DM, by targeting specific acupuncture points and regulating metabolic homeostasis. A recent review published in the World Journal of Diabetes detailed the role of the gut microbiome in T2DM, discussing the role of therapeutic strategies developed to alleviate T2DM and its complications based on gut microbiome in ameliorating T2DM, as well as the effects of multiple diabetes medications on gut microbiome. However, the review did not elucidate the therapeutic role of EA therapy, a common non-pharmacological intervention for T2DM. This letter complemented the effect of EA therapy on glucose metabolism by adjusting the gut microbiome composition, which reveals the underlying mechanism of glucose lowering by EA therapy and provides a scientific basis for the application of EA therapy in clinical treatment.

Silibinin alleviates acute liver failure by modulating AKT/GSK3β/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway

Silibinin (Sil) is a major bioactive component of silymarin, extracted from the fruit and seeds of Silybum marianum. Silibinin meglumine (SM) is a water-soluble derivative of silibinin that has shown significant potential in liver fibrosis. However, the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of SM on acute liver failure (ALF) are still not fully understood. This study aims to find the likely mechanism. An ALF mouse model and a cell model were established with GalN/LPS. SM was administered to mice via the tail vein or to a hepatocyte line (alpha mouse liver 12, AML12). The results showed that SM particularly lowered the mortality and improved liver pathological lesions in ALF mice. Meanwhile, SM improved the levels of GSH, SOD, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10 in the liver tissues and serum. Additionally, SM enhanced cell viability and reduced oxidative stress in vitro. In the AKT/GSK3β/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, the subpathway of AKT/GSK3β was inhibited, and the subpathway of Nrf2/GPX4 was activated by SM both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, ferrostatin-1, a ferroptosis inhibitor, and the silencing of AKT using siRNA weakened the protective effect of SM, indicating that this process is mediated in an AKT-dependent manner. All the results suggested that SM inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress by modulating the AKT/GSK3β/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway.

Abnormal ac4C modification in metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver cells

The pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains unclear due to the complexity of its etiology. The emerging field of the epitranscriptome has shown significant promise in advancing the understanding of disease pathogenesis and developing new therapeutic approaches. Recent research has demonstrated that N4-acetylcytosine (ac4C), an RNA modification within the epitranscriptome, is implicated in progression of various diseases. However, the role of ac4C modification in MASLD remains unexplored. Herein, we performed acRIP-ac4c-seq and RNA-seq analysis in free fatty acids-induced MASLD model cells, identifying 2128 differentially acetylated ac4C sites, with 1031 hyperacetylated and 1097 hypoacetylated peaks in MASLD model cells. Functional enrichments analysis showed that ac4C differentially modified genes were significantly involved in processes related to MASLD, such as nuclear transport and MAP kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. We also identified 341 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 61 lncRNAs and 280 mRNAs, between control and MASLD model cells. Bioinformatics analysis showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in long-chain fatty acid biosynthetic process. Notably, 118 genes exhibited significant changes in both ac4C modification and expression levels in MASLD model cells. Among these proteins, JUN, caveolin-1 (CAV1), fatty acid synthase (FASN), and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNPA1) were identified as core proteins through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis using cytoscape software. Collectively, our findings establish a positive correlation between ac4C modification and the pathogenesis of MASLD and suggest that ac4C modification may serve as a therapeutic target for MASLD.

Deficiency of hepatokine orosomucoid1 aggravates NAFLD progression in mice

Orosomucoid (ORM) is an important hepatokine that regulates metabolism. Previous report showed that isoform ORM2 but not ORM1 could downregulate lipogenic genes and ameliorate hepatic steatosis in obese mice, thereby categorizing ORM2 as a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, our previous studies found that mice lacking ORM1 gradually developed an obese phenotype with severe hepatic steatosis at the age of 24 weeks. Consequently, it remains imperative to further investigate the precise role of ORM1 in the context of NAFLD. The current study aims to assess the function and therapeutic prospects of ORM1 in NAFLD models induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) or a methionine- and choline-deficient diet (MCD), employing a series of loss- and gain-of-function experiments. The results showed that liver ORM levels elevated in fat NAFLD models but decreased in lean NAFLD models. Orm1-deficient mice fed either on HFD or MCD had significantly higher NAFLD activity score with more severe steatosis and ballooning, showing an aggravated NAFLD progression. However, liver-specific Orm1 overexpression in mice could not alleviate NAFLD when fed on HFD or MCD. These results suggest that systemic endogenous ORM1 is indispensable in protecting against the development of NAFLD; however, it may not serve as an effective localized therapeutic target for managing the disease.

Protective potentials of extracted compound SILIBININ from milk thistle on type-2 diabetes mellitus and diesel exhaust particle (DEP) toxicity in experimental rats

The combustion of diesel in engines contributes polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) present in the atmosphere, therefore causing toxic mitigating consequences by eliciting oxidative modulation. Currently, type 2 diabetes mellitus is reported as a global menace, causing about 1.5 million deaths in 2019 and contributing to about 48% of related deaths among the populace aged below 70 years. (GBDCN, 2020). Silibinin (SIL) is a flavolignan from milk thistle with substantive therapeutic potential. This work elucidates the effects of SIL on glucose modulatory pathways (PI3K-AKT-GLUT 2 and AMPK-GLUT 2), inflammation and redox imbalance in the pancreas of diabetic rats subjected to DEP. Streptozocin was used to induce Type-2 diabetes mellitus in rats, which were further endangered to DEP (0.4 and 0.5 mg/kg) later, post-treated with SIL 40 mg/kg. For comparison, a parallel group of nondiabetic rats were exposed to DEP and afterwards treated with SIL, whilst the results were compared to the diabetic group. Results state that SIL leads to marked/substantial modulation in insulin-associated genes (PI3K, AKT, AMPK, GLUT 2), inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-10), peroxidation (MDA, CD) and antioxidative status (SOD, CAT, GPX, GSH, HO-1) in vivo as negatively induced by DEP and hyperglycaemia, thereby restoring glucose homeostasis. Taken together, SIL proffers the potential to ameliorate pancreatic-toxicity caused by DEP and high blood glucose/elevated glucose levels.

Dual functions of silibinin in attenuating aortic dissection via regulating iron homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress against ferroptosis

Aortic dissection (AD) poses a significant threat to cardiovascular health globally, yet its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Smooth muscle cells death and phenotypic switching are critically important pathological processes in AD. Currently, no pharmacological therapies have proven effective in managing AD. This study aims to elucidate the involvement of ferroptosis in AD progression and explore ferroptosis inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach for AD management. Elevated expression of ferroptosis markers (HMOX1, ACSL4, and 4-HNE) was observed in AD patients and β-Aminopropionitrile (BAPN)-induced mice. In vivo administration of silibinin (SIL) attenuated aortic dilation, inflammation, mitochondrial injury, and ferroptosis. SIL treatment enhanced cell viability and mitochondrial function while reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitigating ferroptosis in primary human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) induced by RSL3 or IKE. Mechanistically, RNA-sequencing analysis identified dysregulation of iron homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress, which were modulated by SIL. Molecular docking, cellular thermal shift assay, drug affinity responsive target stability, and surface plasmon resonance analysis confirmed HMOX1 as a direct target of SIL, highlighting its role in modulating iron homeostasis. Moreover, NCT-502, a PHGDH inhibitor, reversed the protective effect of SIL in RSL3-induced HASMCs. Conversely, 4-PBA and ZnPP demonstrate a facilitative role. This suggests that SIL plays a crucial role in ferroptosis development by modulating iron homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated serine biosynthesis, both in vitro and in vivo. Iron homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress of HASMCs drive the development of aortic dissection. These findings unveil a novel role of SIL in mitigating ferroptosis in HASMCs, offering a promising therapeutic avenue for treating AD.

Melatonin prevents glyphosate-induced hepatic lipid accumulation in roosters via activating Nrf2 pathway

BACKGROUND

Glyphosate (GLY) is a widely used herbicide with well-defined hepatotoxic effects, in which oxidative stress has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of hepatotoxicity. Melatonin (MET), an effective free radical scavenger, has been revealed to alleviate drug-induced liver damage by inhibiting oxidative stress.

METHODS

In this study, a rooster model with primary chicken embryo hepatocytes was applied to elucidate the therapeutic effects of MET against GLY-induced hepatic damage and the potential mechanism. Histopathological examinations, biochemical tests and immunoblotting analysis were used to monitor the protective effects of MET on GLY-induced hepatic lipid accumulation. Molecular docking analysis was used to reveal the key reason of MET-improved hepatic lipid deposition.

RESULTS

Data firstly showed that MET administration markedly improved GLY-induced hepatic injury, as evidenced by normalized liver enzymes and alleviated pathological changes of liver tissues. Moreover, MET supplementation alleviated GLY-induced hepatic lipid accumulation, which was correlated with improved serum and hepatic lipid profiles and normalized expression of lipolysis- and lipogenesis-related proteins. Notably, MET significantly inhibited vital enzymes involved in stimulating oxidative stress. Moreover, MET enhanced GLY-inhibited Nrf2 nuclear transcription and increased the expressions of its downstream target genes HO1 and NQO1. Further studies revealed that MET may interact with Nrf2 to enhance nuclear translocation of Nrf2.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results provide the first direct evidence that MET is a novel regulator of Nrf2, highlighting that Nrf2 may be a potential therapeutic target for GLY-induced lipotoxic liver injury.

Disparities in the Prevalence of Hospitalizations and In-Hospital Mortality Due to Acute Myocardial Infarction Among Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Nationwide Retrospective Study

Background: Non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) may be associated with cardiovascular diseases; however, only a few studies have analyzed this relationship. We aimed to assess the epidemiologic data and the association between NAFLD and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the United States. Methods: The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database 2016-2019 was queried using ICD10-CM diagnostic codes to identify hospitalizations of AMI + NAFLD. Essential demographic variables were analyzed to determine the disparities in the prevalence of AMI hospitalizations and deaths among NAFLD patients. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models determined the association between NAFLD and AMI hospitalizations and death. Results: Among the total 5450 NAFLD patients hospitalized with AMI, 5.11% (279) died. Females were less likely to be admitted and die due to AMI than males. Younger patients (<50) were less likely to be hospitalized and die than those ≥50. Compared to the white population, black patients were less likely; however, Hispanics, Asians, and Pacific Islanders were more likely to be hospitalized. Race was not found to affect hospital mortality. On multivariate analysis, NAFLD was associated with higher odds of AMI hospitalization [OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.51-1.60, p < 0.01] and death [OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.74-2.21, p < 0.01]. Conclusions: Older white males with NAFLD had a higher prevalence of AMI hospitalizations and mortality.

Protective Effect of Modified Suanmei-Tang on Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: An Integrated Strategy of Network Pharmacology, Metabolomics, and Transcriptomics

Background

Modified Suanmei-Tang (MST) comprises four plants common to both traditional Chinese medicine and culinary applications, and it can potentially alleviate metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) triggered by a high-fat diet (HFD).

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the impact and underlying mechanisms of MST in ameliorating MAFLD caused by an HFD.

Methods

UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS was used to determine the constituents of MST and to evaluate its effects on MAFLD mouse models. Transcriptomics, network pharmacology, and bioinformatics analysis (including Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis) were utilized to further clarify the mechanisms by which MST acts on MAFLD. The experimental methods included ELISA, real time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot, immunohistochemistry, molecular docking, and metabolomics. Transcriptomics was integrated with metabolomics to find correlations between differentially expressed genes and metabolites, and crucial genes were validated through RT-qPCR.

Results

A total of 23 components of MST were identified. The formulation was found to alleviate metabolic disorders, obesity, insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress in mice with MAFLD. The findings indicate that MST promoted autophagy by suppressing phosphorylation in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and enhancing lipid management in the livers of MAFLD mice.

Conclusion

MST could effectively improve lipid metabolism disorders and liver lipid deposition in MAFLD mice, and its mechanism might be related to regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway to improve autophagy.

Silibinin attenuates ferroptosis in acute kidney injury by targeting FTH1

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is primarily caused by renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), which is one of the most prevalent triggers. Currently, preventive and therapeutic measures remain limited. Ferroptosis plays a significant role in the pathophysiological process of IRI-induced AKI and is considered a key target for improving its outcomes. Silibinin, a polyphenolic flavonoid, possesses diverse pharmacological properties and is widely used as an effective therapeutic agent for liver diseases. Recent studies have reported that silibinin may improves kidney diseases, though the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether silibinin protects against IRI-induced AKI and explored its mechanism of action. Our findings indicated that pretreatment with silibinin alleviated renal dysfunction, pathological damage, and inflammation in IRI-AKI mice. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that silibinin inhibited ferroptosis both in vivo and in vitro. Proteome microarrays were used to identify silibinin's target, and our results revealed that silibinin binds to FTH1. This binding affinity was confirmed through molecular docking, SPRi, CETSA, and DARTS. Additionally, co-IP assays demonstrated that silibinin disrupted the NCOA4-FTH1 interaction, inhibiting ferritinophagy. Finally, the inhibitory effects of silibinin on ferroptosis were reversed by knocking down FTH1 in vitro. In conclusion, our study shows that silibinin effectively alleviates AKI by targeting FTH1 to reduce ferroptosis, suggesting that silibinin could be developed as a potential therapeutic agent for managing and treating AKI.

Novel Strategies Enhancing Bioavailability and Therapeutical Potential of Silibinin for Treatment of Liver Disorders

Silibinin, a bioactive component found in milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum), is known to have significant therapeutic potential in the treatment of various liver diseases. It is considered a key element of silymarin, which is traditionally used to support liver function. The main mechanisms of action of silibinin are attributed to its antioxidant properties protecting liver cells from damage caused by free radicals. Experimental studies conducted in vitro and in vivo have confirmed its ability to inhibit inflammatory and fibrotic processes, as well as promote the regeneration of damaged liver tissue. Therefore, silibinin represents a promising tool for the treatment of liver diseases. Since the silibinin molecule is insoluble in water and has poor bioavailability in vivo, new perspectives on solving this problem are being sought. The two most promising approaches are the water-soluble derivative silibinin-C-2',3-dihydrogen succinate, disodium salt, and the silibinin-phosphatidylcholine complex. Both drugs are currently under evaluation in liver disease clinical trials. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying silibinin biological activity is still elusive and its more detailed understanding would undoubtedly increase its potential in the development of effective therapeutic strategies against liver diseases. This review is focused on the therapeutic potential of silibinin and its derivates, approaches to increase the bioavailability and the benefits in the treatment of liver diseases that have been achieved so far. The review discusses the relevant in vitro and in vivo studies that investigated the protective effects of silibinin in various forms of liver damage.

Exploration of the potential mechanism of aqueous extract of Artemisia capillaris for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease based on network pharmacology and experimental verification

OBJECTIVES

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a nutritional and metabolic disease with a high prevalence today. Artemisia capillaris has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other effects. However, the mechanism of A. capillaris in treating NAFLD is still poorly understood.

METHODS

This study explored the mechanism of A. capillaris in the treatment of NAFLD through network pharmacology and molecular docking, and verified the results through in vivo experiments using a high-fat diet-induced mouse model and in vitro experiments using an oleic acid-induced HepG2 cell model.

KEY FINDINGS

Aqueous extract of A. capillaris (AEAC) can reduce blood lipids, reduce liver lipid accumulation and liver inflammation in NAFLD mice, and improve NAFLD. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that 51 drug ingredients in A. capillaris correspond to 370 targets that act on NAFLD. GEO data mining obtained 93 liver differentially expressed genes related to NAFLD. In the UHPLC-MS detection results, 36 components were characterized and molecular docked with JNK. Verified in vitro and in vivo, the results show that JNK and the phosphorylation levels of IL-6, IL-1β, c-Jun, c-Fos, and CCL2 are key targets and pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirmed that AEAC reduces lipid accumulation and inflammation in the liver of NAFLD mice by inhibiting the JNK/AP-1 pathway.

Salidroside may target PPARα to exert preventive and therapeutic activities on NASH

Background

Salidroside (SDS), a phenylpropanoid glycoside, is an antioxidant component isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Rhodiola rosea and has multifunctional bioactivities, particularly possessing potent hepatoprotective function. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide, but it still lacks efficient drugs. This study aimed to assess the preventive and therapeutic effects of SDS on NASH and its underlying mechanisms in a mouse model subjected to a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice were fed an MCD diet to induce NASH. During or after the formation of the MCD-induced NASH model, SDS (24 mg/kg/day) was supplied as a form of diet for 4 weeks. The histopathological changes were evaluated by H&E staining. Oil Red O staining and Sirius Red staining were used to quantitatively determine the lipid accumulation and collagen fibers in the liver. Serum lipid and liver enzyme levels were measured. The morphology of autophagic vesicles and autophagosomes was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to detect autophagy-related factor levels. Immunohistochemistry and TUNEL staining were used to evaluate the apoptosis of liver tissues. Flow cytometry was used to detect the composition of immune cells. ELISA was used to evaluate the expression of serum inflammatory factors. Transcript-proteome sequencing, molecular docking, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting were performed to explore the mechanism and target of SDS in NASH.

Results

The oral administration of SDS demonstrated comprehensive efficacy in NASH. SDS showed both promising preventive and therapeutic effects on NASH in vivo. SDS could upregulate autophagy, downregulate apoptosis, rebalance immunity, and alleviate inflammation to exert anti-NASH properties. Finally, the results of transcript-proteome sequencing, molecular docking evaluation, and experimental validation showed that SDS might exert its multiple effects through targeting PPARα.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that SDS could regulate liver autophagy and apoptosis, regulating both innate immunity and adaptive immunity and alleviating inflammation in NASH prevention and therapy via the PPAR pathway, suggesting that SDS could be a potential anti-NASH drug in the future.

Silibinin, a commonly used therapeutic agent for non-alcohol fatty liver disease, functions through upregulating intestinal expression of fibroblast growth factor 15/19

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Silibinin is used to treat non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD) despite having rapid liver metabolism. Therefore, we investigated the role of the intestine in silibinin mechanism of action.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

NAFLD mice model was established by feeding them with a high-fat diet (HFD). Liver pathological were examined using H&E and oil red O staining. Tissue distribution of silibinin was detected by LC-MS/MS. SiRNA was employed for gene silencing and plasmid was used for gene overexpression. ChIP-qPCR assay was performed to detect the levels of histone acetylation. Recombinant adeno-associated virus 9-short hairpin-fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-15 and -farnesoid X receptor (FXR; NR1H4) were used to knockdown expression of FGF-15 and FXR.

KEY RESULTS

Oral silibinin significantly reversed NAFLD in mice, although liver concentration was insufficient for reduction of lipid accumulation in hepatocytes. Among endogenous factors capable of reversing NAFLD, the expression of Fgf-15 was selectively up-regulated by silibinin in ileum and colon of mice. When intestinal expression of Fgf-15 was knocked down, protection of silibinin against lipid accumulation and injury of livers nearly disappeared. Silibinin could reduce activity of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), enhance histone acetylation in the promoter region of FXR and consequently increase intestinal expression of FGF-15/19.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Oral silibinin selectively promotes expression of FGF-15/19 in ileum by enhancing transcription of FXR via reduction of HDAC2 activity, and FGF-15/19 enters into circulation to exert anti-NAFLD action. As the site of action is the intestine this would explain the discrepancy between pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of silibinin.

Current strategies for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease treatment (Review)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common chronic hepatic disease, has become a leading health problem worldwide. The present review summarized the methods and mechanisms to treat NAFLD, including the Mediterranean diet, physical activity and exercise, bariatric surgery and specific therapeutic agents, including statins, peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor agonists, cenicriviroc and farnesoid X receptor agonists. Biologically active substances, such as peptides, alkaloids, polyphenolic compounds, silymarin, antibiotics, fatty acids, vitamins, probiotics, synbiotics and lamiaceae have also demonstrated actions that combat NAFLD. Considering their different mechanisms of action, combining some of them may prove an efficacious treatment for NAFLD. In this light, the present review describes recent progress and future prospects in treating NAFLD.

Liver Extracellular Vesicles and Particles Enriched β-Sitosterol Effectively Promote Liver Regeneration in Mice

Background

The liver's regenerative capacity allows it to repair itself after injury. Extracellular vesicles and particles (EVPs) in the liver's interstitial space are crucial for signal transduction, metabolism, and immune regulation. Understanding the role and mechanism of liver-derived EVPs in regeneration is significant, particularly after partial hepatectomy, where the mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

A 70% hepatectomy model was established in mice, and EVPs were isolated and characterized using electron microscopy, nanocharacterization, and Western blot analysis. Combined metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed β-sitosterol enrichment in EVPs and activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway during regeneration. The role of β-sitosterol in EVPs on the Hedgehog pathway and its targets were identified using qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis. The regulation of carnitine synthesis by this pathway was determined using a dual luciferase assay. The effect of a β-sitosterol diet on liver regeneration was verified in mice.

Results

After 70% hepatectomy, the liver successfully regenerated without liver failure or death. At 24 hours post-surgery, tissue staining showed transient regeneration-associated steatosis (TRAS), with increased Ki67 positivity at 48 hours. EVPs displayed a spherical lipid bilayer structure with particle sizes of 70-130 nm. CD9, CD63, and CD81 in liver-derived EVPs were confirmed. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed EVPs supplementation significantly promoted carnitine synthesis and fatty acid oxidation. Tissue staining confirmed accelerated TRAS resolution and enhanced liver regeneration with EVP supplementation. Mass spectrometry identified β-sitosterol in EVPs, which binds to Smo protein, activating the Hedgehog pathway. This led to the nuclear transport of Gli3, stimulating Setd5 transcription and inducing carnitine synthesis, thereby accelerating fatty acid oxidation. Mice with increased β-sitosterol intake showed faster TRAS resolution and liver regeneration compared to controls.

Conclusion

Liver-derived EVPs promote regeneration after partial hepatectomy. β-sitosterol from EVPs accelerates fatty acid oxidation and promotes liver regeneration by activating Hedgehog signaling pathway.

Nano-drug delivery systems (NDDS) in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): current status, prospects and challenges

About one-third of the global population suffers from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), but specific treatments for MASLD have long been lacking, primarily due to the unclear etiology of the disease. In addition to lifestyle modifications and weight loss surgery, pharmacotherapy is the most common treatment among MASLD patients, and these drugs typically target the pathogenic factors of MASLD. However, bioavailability, efficacy, and side effects all limit the maximum therapeutic potential of the drugs. With the development of nanomedicine, recent years have seen attempts to combine MASLD pharmacotherapy with nanomaterials, such as liposomes, polymer nanoparticles, micelles, and cocrystals, which effectively improves the water solubility and targeting of the drugs, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing toxic side effects, offering new perspectives and futures for the treatment of MASLD.

The Regulatory Impact of CFLAR Methylation Modification on Liver Lipid Metabolism

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Caspase 8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulator (CFLAR) has been identified as a potent factor in mitigating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by inhibiting the N-terminal dimerization of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1). While arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) was previously reported to be associated with increased hepatic glucose production, its involvement in hepatic lipid metabolism remains largely unexplored. The interaction between PRMT1 and CFLAR and the methylation of CFLAR were verified by Co-IP and immunoblotting assays. Recombinant adenoviruses were generated for overexpression or knockdown of PRMT1 in hepatocytes. The role of PRMT1 in NAFLD was investigated in normal and high-fat diet-induced obese mice. In this study, we found a significant upregulation of PRMT1 and downregulation of CFLAR after 48h of fasting, while the latter significantly rebounded after 12h of refeeding. The expression of PRMT1 increased in the livers of mice fed a methionine choline-deficient (MCD) diet and in hepatocytes challenged with oleic acid (OA)/palmitic acid (PA). Overexpression of PRMT1 not only inhibited the expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and promoted the expression of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis (FAS), resulting in increased triglyceride accumulation in primary hepatocytes, but also enhanced the gluconeogenesis of primary hepatocytes. Conversely, knockdown of hepatic PRMT1 significantly alleviated MCD diet-induced hepatic lipid metabolism abnormalities and liver injury in vivo, possibly through the upregulation of CFLAR protein levels. Knockdown of PRMT1 suppressed the expression of genes related to FAS and enhanced the expression of genes involved in FAO, causing decreased triglyceride accumulation in OA/PA-treated primary hepatocytes in vitro. Although short-term overexpression of PRMT1 had no significant effect on hepatic triglyceride levels under physiological conditions, it resulted in increased serum triglyceride and fasting blood glucose levels in normal C57BL/6J mice. More importantly, PRMT1 was observed to interact with and methylate CFLAR, ultimately leading to its ubiquitination-mediated protein degradation. This process subsequently triggered the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) and lipid deposition in primary hepatocytes. Together, these results suggested that PRMT1-mediated methylation of CFLAR plays a critical role in hepatic lipid metabolism. Targeting PRMT1 for drug design may represent a promising strategy for the treatment of NAFLD.

Acupuncture influences multiple diseases by regulating gut microbiota

Acupuncture, an important green and side effect-free therapy in traditional Chinese medicine, is widely use both domestically and internationally. Acupuncture can interact with the gut microbiota and influence various diseases, including metabolic diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, mental disorders, nervous system diseases, and other diseases. This review presents a thorough analysis of these interactions and their impacts and examines the alterations in the gut microbiota and the potential clinical outcomes following acupuncture intervention to establish a basis for the future utilization of acupuncture in clinical treatments.

Oxidative Stress as a Target for Non-Pharmacological Intervention in MAFLD: Could There Be a Role for EVOO?

Oxidative stress plays a central role in most chronic liver diseases and, in particular, in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), the new definition of an old condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The mechanisms leading to hepatocellular fat accumulation in genetically predisposed individuals who adopt a sedentary lifestyle and consume an obesogenic diet progress through mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction, which amplifies reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, lipid peroxidation, malondialdehyde (MDA) formation, and influence the release of chronic inflammation and liver damage biomarkers, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines. This close pathogenetic link has been a key stimulus in the search for therapeutic approaches targeting oxidative stress to treat steatosis, and a number of clinical trials have been conducted to date on subjects with NAFLD using drugs as well as supplements or nutraceutical products. Vitamin E, Vitamin D, and Silybin are the most studied substances, but several non-pharmacological approaches have also been explored, especially lifestyle and diet modifications. Among the dietary approaches, the Mediterranean Diet (MD) seems to be the most reliable for affecting liver steatosis, probably with the added value of the presence of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a healthy food with a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, and variable concentrations of phenols (oleocanthal) and phenolic alcohols, such as hydroxytyrosol (HT) and tyrosol (Tyr). In this review, we focus on non-pharmacological interventions in MAFLD treatment that target oxidative stress and, in particular, on the role of EVOO as one of the main antioxidant components of the MD.

A self-amplifying loop of TP53INP1 and P53 drives oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation is a promising regenerative therapy; however, the survival rate of BMSCs after transplantation is low. Oxidative stress is one of the main reasons for the high apoptosis rate of BMSCs after transplantation, so there is an urgent need to explore the mechanism of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of BMSCs. Our previous transcriptome sequencing results suggested that the expression of P53-induced nuclear protein 1 (TP53INP1) and the tumor suppressor P53 (P53) was significantly upregulated during the process of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of BMSCs. The present study further revealed the role and mechanism of TP53INP1 and P53 in oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in BMSCs. Overexpression of TP53INP1 induced apoptosis of BMSCs, knockdown of TP53INP1 alleviated oxidative stress apoptosis of BMSCs. Under oxidative stress conditions, P53 is regulated by TP53INP1, while P53 can positively regulate the expression of TP53INP1, so the two form a positive feedback loop. To clarify the mechanism of feedback loop formation. We found that TP53INP1 inhibited the ubiquitination and degradation of P53 by increasing the phosphorylation level of P53, leading to the accumulation of P53 protein. P53 can act on the promoter of the TP53INP1 gene and increase the expression of TP53INP1 through transcriptional activation. This is the first report on a positive feedback loop formed by TP53INP1 and P53 under oxidative stress. The present study clarified the formation mechanism of the positive feedback loop. The TP53INP1-P53 positive feedback loop may serve as a potential target for inhibiting oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in BMSCs.

Effects of Fat and Carnitine on the Expression of Carnitine Acetyltransferase and Enoyl-CoA Hydratase Short-Chain 1 in the Liver of Juvenile GIFT (Oreochromis niloticus)

Carnitine acetyltransferase (CAT) and Enoyl-CoA hydratase short-chain 1 (ECHS1) are considered key enzymes that regulate the β-oxidation of fatty acids. However, very few studies have investigated their full length and expression in genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus), an important aquaculture species in China. Here, we cloned CAT and ECHS1 full-length cDNA via the rapid amplification of cDNA ends, and the expressions of CAT and ECHS1 in the liver of juvenile GIFT were detected in different fat and carnitine diets, as were the changes in the lipometabolic enzymes and serum biochemical indexes of juvenile GIFT in diets with different fat and carnitine levels. CAT cDNA possesses an open reading frame (ORF) of 2167 bp and encodes 461 amino acids, and the ECHS1 cDNA sequence is 1354 bp in full length, the ORF of which encodes a peptide of 391 amino acids. We found that juvenile GIFT had higher lipometabolic enzyme activity and lower blood CHOL, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C contents when the dietary fat level was 2% or 6% and when the carnitine level was 500 mg/kg. We also found that the expression of ECHS1 and CAT genes in the liver of juvenile GIFT can be promoted by a 500 mg/kg carnitine level and 6% fat level feeding. These results suggested that CAT and ECHS1 may participate in regulating lipid metabolism, and when 2% or 6% fat and 500 mg/kg carnitine are added to the feed, it is the most beneficial to the liver and lipid metabolism of juvenile GIFT. Our results may provide a theoretical basis for GIFT feeding and treating fatty liver disease.

Functional Food Chemical Ingredient Strategies for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Hepatic Fibrosis: Chemical Properties, Health Benefits, Action, and Application

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The liver is an important digestive gland in the body. Lifestyle and dietary habits are increasingly damaging our liver, leading to various diseases and health problems. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most serious liver disease problems in the world. Diet is one of the important factors in maintaining liver health. Functional foods and their components have been identified as novel sources of potential preventive agents in the prevention and treatment of liver disease in daily life. However, the effects of functional components derived from small molecules in food on different types of liver diseases have not been systematically summarized.

RECENT FINDINGS

The components and related mechanisms in functional foods play a significant role in the development and progression of NAFLD and liver fibrosis. A variety of structural components are found to treat and prevent NAFLD and liver fibrosis through different mechanisms, including flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, and peptides. On the other hand, the relevant mechanisms include oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune regulation, and a large number of literature studies have confirmed a close relationship between the mechanisms. The purpose of this article is to examine the current literature related to functional foods and functional components used for the treatment and protection against NAFLD and hepatic fibrosis, focusing on chemical properties, health benefits, mechanisms of action, and application in vitro and in vivo. The roles of different components in the biological processes of NAFLD and liver fibrosis were also discussed.

Phosphorylation: new star of pathogenesis and treatment in steatotic liver disease

Steatotic liver disease poses a serious threat to human health and has emerged as one of the most significant burdens of chronic liver disease worldwide. Currently, the research mechanism is not clear, and there is no specific targeted drug for direct treatment. Phosphorylation is widely regarded as the most common type of protein modification, closely linked to steatotic liver disease in previous studies. However, there is no systematic review to clarify the relationship and investigate from the perspective of phosphorylation. Phosphorylation has been found to mainly regulate molecule stability, affect localization, transform molecular function, and cooperate with other protein modifications. Among them, adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), serine/threonine kinase (AKT), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kB) are considered the core mechanisms in steatotic liver disease. As to treatment, lifestyle changes, prescription drugs, and herbal ingredients can alleviate symptoms by influencing phosphorylation. It demonstrates the significant role of phosphorylation as a mechanism occurrence and a therapeutic target in steatotic liver disease, which could be a new star for future exploration.

Silymarin Reduced Insulin Resistance in Non-Diabetic Women with Obesity

Silymarin has ameliorated obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and insulin resistance (IR) in combination with standard therapy, diet, or exercise in recent studies. Obesity and IR are the main risk factors for developing T2DM and other metabolic disorders. Today, there is a need for new strategies to target IR in patients with these metabolic diseases. In the present longitudinal study, a group of non-diabetic insulin-resistant women with type 1 and type 2 obesity were given silymarin for 12 weeks, with no change in habitual diet and physical activity. We used the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance Index (HOMA-IR) to determine IR at baseline and after silymarin treatment (t = 12 weeks). We obtained five timepoint oral glucose tolerance tests, and other biochemical and clinical parameters were analyzed before and after treatment. Treatment with silymarin alone significantly reduced mean fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HOMA-IR levels at 12 weeks compared to baseline values (p < 0.05). Mean fasting plasma insulin (FPI), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (Tg), indirect bilirubin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased compared to baseline values, although changes were non-significant. The overall results suggest that silymarin may offer a therapeutic alternative to improve IR in non-diabetic individuals with obesity. Further clinical trials are needed in this type of patient to strengthen the results of this study.

Herb-drug interactions of silybinin and cilofexor in beagle dogs based on pharmacokinetics by UPLC-MS/MS

Objective: A remarkably sensitive, accurate, and efficient ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) approach was developed as a facile and expeditious method for measuring cilofexor concentration in beagle dogs, the herb-drug interactions between silybinin and cilofexor was explored based on pharmacokinetics. Methods: The plasma sample protein of the beagles were rapidly sedimented with acetonitrile, and cilofexor and tropifexor (internal standard, ISTD) were separated by gradient elution using a 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. The concentrations were detected using positive ion multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Mass transfer pairs were m/z 587.91→267.91 for cilofexor and m/z 604.08→228.03 for ISTD, respectively. A two-period self-controlled experimental design was adopted for the HDIs experiment. In the first period (Group A), six beagle dogs were orally administered cilofexor at a dose of 1 mg/kg. In the second period (Group B), silybinin (3 mg/kg) was orally administered to the six beagle dogs twice a day for seven consecutive days, after which cilofexor was orally administered. The cilofexor concentration in beagle dogs was determined, and HDIs were evaluated based on their pharmacokinetics. Results: The accuracy and precision of cilofexor were both less than 15%, and the recoveries, matrix effects, and stability met the relevant requirements. The Cmax of cilofexor in group B was 49.62% higher than that in group A, whereas the AUC(0-t) and AUC(0-∞) of cilofexor in group B were 47.85% and 48.52% higher, respectively, than those in group A. Meanwhile, the t1/2 extended from 7.84 h to 9.45 h, CL and Vz decreased in Group B. Conclusion: A novel UPLC-MS/MS approach was successfully applied for the measurement of cilofexor in beagle dog plasma. Silybinin can alter the pharmacokinetics of cilofexor in beagle dogs, thereby increasing plasma exposure to cilofexor.

In Vitro Influence of Specific Bacteroidales Strains on Gut and Liver Health Related to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become a major health risk and a serious worldwide issue. MAFLD typically arises from aberrant lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, subjacent causes are multifactorial. The gut has been proposed as a major factor in health and disease, and over the last decade, bacterial strains with potentially beneficial effects on the host have been identified. In vitro cell models have been commonly used as an early step before in vivo drug assessment and can confer complementary advantages in gut and liver health research. In this study, several selected strains of the order Bacteroidales were used in a three-cell line in vitro analysis (HT-29, Caco-2, and HepG2 cell lines) to investigate their potential as new-generation probiotics and microbiota therapeutics. Antimicrobial activity, a potentially useful trait, was studied, and the results showed that Bacteroidales can be a source of either wide- or narrow-spectrum antimicrobials targeting other closely related strains. Moreover, Bacteroides sp. 4_1_36 induced a significant decrease in gut permeability, as evidenced by the high TEER values in the Caco-2 monolayer assay, as well as a reduction in free fatty acid accumulation and improved fatty acid clearance in a steatosis HepG2 model. These results suggest that Bacteroidales may spearhead the next generation of probiotics to prevent or diminish MAFLD.

Chinese herbal medicines: The modulator of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease targeting oxidative stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plants are a natural treasure trove; their secondary metabolites participate in several pharmacological processes, making them a crucial component in the synthesis of novel pharmaceuticals and serving as a reserve resource foundation in this process. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with the risk of progression to hepatitis and liver cancer. The "Treatise on Febrile Diseases," "Compendium of Materia Medica," and "Thousand Golden Prescriptions" have listed herbal remedies to treat liver diseases.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

Chinese herbal medicines have been widely used for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD owing to their efficacy and low side effects. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during NAFLD, and the impact and potential mechanism of ROS on the pathogenesis of NAFLD are discussed in this review. Furthermore, common foods and herbs that can be used to prevent NAFLD, as well as the structure-activity relationships and potential mechanisms, are discussed.

METHODS

Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI database, Google Scholar, and WanFang database were searched for natural products that have been used to treat or prevent NAFLD in the past five years. The primary search was performed using the following keywords in different combinations in full articles: NAFLD, herb, natural products, medicine, and ROS. More than 400 research papers and review articles were found and analyzed in this review.

RESULTS

By classifying and discussing the literature, we obtained 86 herbaceous plants, 28 of which were derived from food and 58 from Chinese herbal medicines. The mechanism of NAFLD was proposed through experimental studies on thirteen natural compounds (quercetin, hesperidin, rutin, curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, salvianolic acid B, paeoniflorin, ginsenoside Rg1, ursolic acid, berberine, honokiol, emodin). The occurrence and progression of NAFLD could be prevented by natural antioxidants through several pathways to prevent ROS accumulation and reduce hepatic cell injuries caused by excessive ROS.

CONCLUSION

This review summarizes the natural products and routinely used herbs (prescription) in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. Firstly, the mechanisms by which natural products improve NAFLD through antioxidant pathways are elucidated. Secondly, the potential of traditional Chinese medicine theory in improving NAFLD is discussed, highlighting the safety of food-medicine homology and the broader clinical potential of multi-component formulations in improving NAFLD. Aiming to provide theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.

Integrating network analysis and pharmacokinetics to investigate the mechanisms of Danzhi Tiaozhi Decoction in metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Based on ancient classics, Danzhi Tiaozhi Decoction has been successfully used to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease for decades. However, its therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Danzhi Tiaozhi Decoction (DZTZD) on metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, we identified the active ingredients of DZTZD and their potential targets in the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology database. Using the overlapped genes, we selected the key MAFLD-associated genes, then conducted GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. Furthermore, DZTZD was administered orally to rats, and their serum and liver tissues were examined for absorbed compounds using pharmacochemistry. UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS was used to determine the main compounds. Then, we validated the binding association of the key targets with their active compounds with AutoDock Tools and other software. Finally, the predicted hub targets were experimentally validated.

RESULTS

We found 254 active compounds in DZTZD corresponding to 208 targets. Sixteen key genes were identified, and the enrichment analysis revealed multiple signaling pathways, including the AGE-RAGE pathway in diabetic complications and the lipid and atherosclerosis signaling pathway. Next, 160 absorbed components and metabolites were characterized in vivo, and 53 absorbed components and metabolites were characterized in liver tissue. Thirteen parent compounds were identified, including coptisine, quercetin, luteolin, and aloe-emodin. The molecular docking data demonstrated the strongest binding between the active compounds and the core proteins. Moreover, the animal experiments showed that DZTZD decreased body weight, liver weight, lipid accumulation, and ALT, AST, CRP, FFA, IL-6, PEPCK, G6P, TG, TC, and LDL-c serum levels, and increased serum HDL-c levels compared to high-fat induced rats. Besides, the RT-PCR and Western blot showed that DZTZD inhibited the SREBP1c and FAS and increased hyperlipidemia-induced CPT-1A levels. In the high-fat group, JNK phosphorylation increased, and AKT protein phosphorylation decreased, while DZTZD reversed these effects.

CONCLUSION

Based on the pharmacological network analysis, pharmacochemistry, and experimental validation, DZTZD can potentially improve MAFLD via the JNK/AKT pathway.

LIM domain only 7 negatively controls nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in the setting of hyperlipidemia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hyperlipidemia has been extensively recognized as a high-risk factor for NASH; however, clinical susceptibility to NASH is highly heterogeneous. The key controller(s) of NASH susceptibility in patients with hyperlipidemia has not yet been elucidated. Here, we aimed to reveal the key regulators of NASH in patients with hyperlipidemia and to explore its role and underlying mechanisms.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

To identify the predominant suppressors of NASH in the setting of hyperlipidemia, we collected liver biopsy samples from patients with hyperlipidemia, with or without NASH, and performed RNA-sequencing analysis. Notably, decreased Lineage specific Interacting Motif domain only 7 (LMO7) expression robustly correlated with the occurrence and severity of NASH. Although overexpression of LMO7 effectively blocked hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammation, LMO7 deficiency in hepatocytes greatly exacerbated diet-induced NASH progression. Mechanistically, lysine 48 (K48)-linked ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation of tripartite motif-containing 47 (TRIM47) and subsequent inactivation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade are required for the protective function of LMO7 in NASH.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide proof-of-concept evidence supporting LMO7 as a robust suppressor of NASH in the context of hyperlipidemia, indicating that targeting the LMO7-TRIM47 axis is a promising therapeutic strategy for NASH.

Mechanism of Action and Related Natural Regulators of Nrf2 in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

With the acceleration of people's pace of life, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease in the world, which greatly threatens people's health and safety. Therefore, there is still an urgent need for higher-quality research and treatment in this area. Nuclear factor Red-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), as a key transcription factor in the regulation of oxidative stress, plays an important role in inducing the body's antioxidant response. Although there are no approved drugs targeting Nrf2 to treat NAFLD so far, it is still of great significance to target Nrf2 to alleviate NAFLD. In recent years, studies have reported that many natural products treat NAFLD by acting on Nrf2 or Nrf2 pathways. This article reviews the role of Nrf2 in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and summarizes the currently reported natural products targeting Nrf2 or Nrf2 pathway for the treatment of NAFLD, which provides new ideas for the development of new NAFLD-related drugs.

Licochalcone A alleviates abnormal glucolipid metabolism and restores energy homeostasis in diet-induced diabetic mice

Licochalcone A (LCA) is a bioactive chalcone compound identified in licorice. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LCA on glucolipid metabolism and energy homeostasis, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Blood glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance, serum parameters, and histopathology were examined in high-fat-high-glucose diet (HFD)-induced diabetic mice, with metformin as a positive control. Additionally, changes in key markers related to glucolipid metabolism and mitochondrial function were analyzed to comprehensively assess LCA's effects on metabolism. The results showed that LCA alleviated metabolic abnormalities in HFD-induced diabetic mice, which were manifested by suppression of lipogenesis, promotion of lipolysis, reduction of hepatic steatosis, increase in hepatic glycogenesis, and decrease in gluconeogenesis. In addition, LCA restored energy homeostasis by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, enhancing mitophagy, and reducing adenosine triphosphate production. Mechanistically, the metabolic benefits of LCA were associated with the downregulation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 and activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, the two central regulators of metabolism. This study demonstrates that LCA can alleviate abnormal glucolipid metabolism and restore energy balance in diet-induced diabetic mice, highlighting its therapeutical potential for the treatment of diabetes.

Liposome-Based Silibinin for Mitigating Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Dual Effects via Parenteral and Intestinal Routes

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a clinicopathological entity that is typically characterized by intrahepatic ectopic steatosis. Nowadays, NAFLD has surpassed viral hepatitis and become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, which poses a great threat to human health. Silibinin (Sil), a well-known natural product, has been widely used in clinical treatment for liver disorders and exhibited therapeutic potential for NAFLD. However, the suitability of Sil for NAFLD treatment still requires further investigation due to its limited absorption and low bioavailability. This study aimed to construct a Sil-loaded liposome (Sil-Lip) to overcome the limitations of Sil, thereby enhancing its beneficial effects on NAFLD and then investigate the underlying mechanisms of action of Sil-Lip. Herein, Sil-Lip was fabricated by a well-established thin-film dispersion method and carefully characterized, followed by evaluating their therapeutic efficacy using high-fat diet-induced NAFLD mice and free fatty acid -stimulated HepG2 cells. Then, liver transcriptome analysis and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) sequencing were utilized to elucidate the potential mechanisms of action of Sil-Lip. Our data indicated that Sil-Lip harbored good gastrointestinal tract stability, mucus layer permeation, and excellent oral absorption and bioavailability. In vivo and in vitro NAFLD models demonstrated that Sil-Lip had better effects in alleviating lipid metabolism disorders, insulin resistance, and inflammation than did Sil alone. Further investigations revealed that the beneficial effects of Sil-Lip were mediated by modulating intrahepatic insulin resistance-related and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways and extrahepatic gut microbiota. Our study confirmed that Sil-Lip can effectively improve the absorption and bioavailability of Sil, resultantly potentiating its ameliorative effects on NAFLD through modulating intrahepatic insulin resistance-related and NF-κB signaling pathways and extrahepatic gut microbiota.

Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan-Tang (QZTGT) prevents nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by expression pattern correction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan-Tang or Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan Decoction (QZTGT) is based on the compatibility theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), that is a combination of three classical formulae for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Its pharmacodynamic material basis is made up of quinones, flavanones, and terpenoids.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to look for a promising recipe for treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more advanced form of NAFLD, and to use a transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) to find its therapy targets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A classical dietary model of NASH was established using MCD (Methionine- and choline-deficient) diet-fed mice. Liver coefficients like ALT, AST, serum TC, and TG levels were tested following QZTGT administration. A transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) was used to further analyze the liver gene expression profile.

RESULTS

The composition of QZTGT was analyzed by HPLC-Q-TOF/MS, a total of 89 compounds were separated and detected and 31 of them were found in rat plasma. QZTGT improved liver morphology, inflammation and fibrosis in a classical NASH model. Transcriptomic analysis of liver samples from NASH animal model revealed that QZTGT was able to correct gene expression. We used transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) to predicted molecular pathways regulated by QZTGT to improve NASH. Further validation indicated that "fatty acid degradation", "bile secretion" and "steroid biosynthesis" pathways were involved in the improvement of NASH phenotype by QZTGT.

CONCLUSIONS

Using HPLC-Q-TOF/MS, the compound composition of QZTGT, a Traditional Chinese prescription, was separated, analyzed and identified systematically. QZTGT mitigated NASH symptoms in a classical dietary model of NASH. Transcriptomic and network pharmacology analysis predicted the potential QZTGT regulated pathways. These pathways could be used as therapeutic targets for NASH.

A Comprehensive Review on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MASLD), is a spectrum of liver disease. It can be identified by the fact that considerable amount of hepatocytes with minimal or no alcohol use have steatosis. Because of its rising incidence along with increasing rates of obesity, metabolic syndromes, and diabetes mellitus type 2, NAFLD is expected to overtake all other causes of cirrhosis over the next decade, necessitating liver transplantation. Nevertheless, heart disease persists as the most prevalent manifestation of mortality, with only a small percentage experiencing fibrosis and complications associated with the liver. Pathologically, NAFLD is linked to lipid toxicity, oxidative stress, lipid deposits, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. A healthy diet, physical exercise, and a decrease in weight are advised by current international guidelines for the treatment of NAFLD, along with a limited number of medicinal therapies, including vitamin E and pioglitazone. Various natural substances have also been identified as NAFLD in vivo and in vitro regulators. The frequency, complexity of the pathophysiology, lack of authorised medications, and difficulty in interpretation of NAFLD have made it a major problem. This article assesses MASLD's pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiology. This study also reviews a few natural substances that have been shown to have therapeutic advantages for NAFLD.

The novel hepatoprotective effects of silibinin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers against diazinon-induced liver injuries in male mice

In the current study, silibinin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (Sili-NLCs) was synthesized, and the hepatoprotective effectiveness of Sili-NLCs against diazinon (DZN)-induced liver damage in male mice was evaluated. The emulsification-solvent evaporation technique was applied to prepare Sili-NLCs, and characterized by using particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficacy (EE %), in vitro drug release behavior, and stability studies. In vivo, studies were done on male mice. Hepatotoxicity in male mice were induced by DZN (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.). Four groups treated with silibinin and Sili-NLCs with the same doses (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.). On 31th days, serum and liver tissue samples were collected. Alanine (ALT) and aspartate (AST) aminotransferase levels, oxidative stress biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, and histopathological alterations were assessed. The Sili-NLCs particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), and EE % were obtained at 220.8 ± 0.86 nm, -18.7 ± 0.28 mV, 0.118 ± 0.03, and 71.83 ± 0.15%, respectively. The in vivo studies revealed that DZN significantly increased the serum levels of AST, ALT, hepatic levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), while decreased the antioxidant defense system in the mice's liver. However, Sili-NLCs was more effective than silibinin to return the aforementioned ratio toward the normal situation, and these results were well correlated with histopathological findings. Improvement of silibinin protective efficacy and oral bioavailability by using NLCs caused to Sili-NLCs can be superior to free silibinin in ameliorating DZN-induced hepatotoxicity in male mice.

Quantitative proteomics analysis based on data-independent acquisition reveals the effect of Shenling Baizhu powder (SLP) on protein expression in MAFLD rat liver tissue

BACKGROUND

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, and it is also a high-risk factor for the development of other metabolic diseases. Shenling Baizhu powder (SLP) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula with good clinical efficacy against MAFLD. However, its molecular mechanism for the treatment of MAFLD is still not fully understood. This study used quantitative proteomics analysis to reveal the SLP action mechanism in the treatment of MAFLD by discovering the effect of SLP on protein expression in the liver tissue of MAFLD rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Q-Orbitrap LC-MS/MS was used to identify the incoming blood compounds of SLP. The 18 SD male rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 6): control group, HFD group and SLP group. The HFD group and SLP group were established as MAFLD rat models by feeding them a high-fat diet for 4 weeks. Afterwards, the SLP group was treated with SLP (10.89 g/kg/d) for 3 weeks. Biochemical parameters and liver pathological status were measured. Rat liver tissue was analyzed using DIA-based quantitative proteomics and the DEPs were validated by western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 18 active compounds of SLP were identified and isolated to enter the bloodstream. Comparison of DEPs between control group vs. HFD group and HFD group vs. SLP group revealed that SLP restored the expression of 113 DEPs. SLP catalyzes oxidoreductase activity and binding activity on mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum to promote lipid oxidative catabolism, maintain oxoacid metabolic homeostasis in vivo and mitigate oxidative stress-induced hepatocyte injury. And 52 signaling pathways including PPAR signaling, arachidonic acid metabolism and glycine, serine and threonine metabolism were enriched by KEGG. PPI topology analysis showed that Cyp4a2, Agxt2, Fabp1, Pck1, Acsm3, Aldh1a1, Got1 and Hmgcs2 were the core DEPs. The western blotting analysis verified that SLP was able to reverse the increase in Fabp1 and Hmgcs2 and the decrease in Pck1 induced by HFD, and the results were consistent proteomic data.

CONCLUSION

SLP ameliorates hepatic steatosis to exert therapeutic effects on MAFLD by inhibiting the expression of lipid synthesis genes and inhibiting lipid peroxidation in mitochondria. This study provides a new idea and basis for the study of SLP in the treatment of MAFLD and provides an experimental basis for the clinical application of SLP.

The Effects of Dietary Silybin Supplementation on the Growth Performance and Regulation of Intestinal Oxidative Injury and Microflora Dysbiosis in Weaned Piglets

Oxidative stress is the major incentive for intestinal dysfunction in weaned piglets, which usually leads to growth retardation or even death. Silybin has caught extensive attention due to its antioxidant properties. Herein, we investigated the effect of dietary silybin supplementation on growth performance and determined its protective effect on paraquat (PQ)-induced intestinal oxidative damage and microflora dysbiosis in weaned piglets. In trial 1, a total of one hundred twenty healthy weaned piglets were randomly assigned into five treatments with six replicate pens per treatment and four piglets per pen, where they were fed basal diets supplemented with silybin at 0, 50, 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg for 42 days. In trial 2, a total of 24 piglets were randomly allocated to two dietary treatments with 12 replicates per treatment and 1 piglet per pen: a basal diet or adding 400 mg/kg silybin to a basal diet. One-half piglets in each treatment were given an intraperitoneal injection of paraquat (4 mg/kg of body weight) or sterile saline on day 18. All piglets were euthanized on day 21 for sample collection. The results showed that dietary supplementation with 400 mg/kg silybin resulted in a lower feed conversion ratio, diarrhea incidence, and greater antioxidant capacity in weaned piglets. Dietary silybin enhanced intestinal antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial function in oxidative stress piglets induced by PQ. Silybin inhibited mitochondria-associated endogenous apoptotic procedures and then improved the intestinal barrier function and morphology of PQ-challenged piglets. Moreover, silybin improved intestinal microbiota dysbiosis induced by the PQ challenge by enriching short-chain fatty-acid-producing bacteria, which augmented the production of acetate and propionate. Collectively, these findings indicated that dietary silybin supplementation linearly decreased feed conversion ratio and reduced diarrhea incidence in normal conditions, and effectively alleviated oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, intestinal damage, and microflora dysbiosis in weaned piglets.

Beneficial effects of silibinin on serum lipids, bile acids, and gut microbiota in methionine-choline-deficient diet-induced mice

Background and purpose

Silibinin (SIL) is a flavonoid lignin isolated from the fruit and seeds of silybum marianum that exhibits good therapeutic potential for NASH. However, the effects of SIL on serum lipids, bile acids (BAs), and gut microbiota (GM) in NASH mice remain unknown. The present work aimed to explore the beneficial effects of SIL supplementation on serum lipids, bile acids, and gut microbiota in MCD mice.

Experimental approach

After male C57BL/6 mice were fed with a methionine-choline deficient (MCD) diet and simultaneously gavaged with SIL (20 mg/kg. d) for 8 weeks, the pathological changes of liver tissue were observed by oil red O, haematoxylin-eosin, and Masson tricolor staining; the levels of serum AST and ALT, and liver TG and MDA were detected by assay kits; metabonomics and 16S rDNA sequencing were used to analyze the composition of serum lipids and BAs and the abundance of GM; and the mRNA expression levels of hepatic genes related to BAs homeostasis were detected by RT-qPCR.

Results

The results indicated that SIL treatment decreased the levels of 26 lipids (including four arachidonic acids, seven FFAs, 12 acyl carnitines, and three GPs) and two BAs (23-DCA, GLCA), while Dubosiella increased the levels of 10 lipids (including TxB3, PG16:0_18:1, Cer t18:0/24:0 and 7 TGs), five BAs (β-MCA, α-MCA, UDCA, 3-oxo-DCA and HCA), and two GMs (Verrucomicrobiota and Akkermansiaceae) of MCD mice, but had no significant effect on the mRNA expression of CYP7A1, CYP27A1, Bsep, Mrp2, Ntcp, or Oatp1b2. Therefore, influencing GM composition and then regulating the levels of serum lipids and BAs through enterohepatic axis should be an important mechanism of SIL-induced alleviative effect on MCD mice. More importantly, we found that SIL had a good coordination in regulating the abundance of GM and the contents of serum lipids and BAs in MCD mice, that is, when the abundance of probiotics was up-regulated, the content of beneficial unsaturated fatty acids in serum was up-regulated, while the serum levels of harmful lipids and BAs were down-regulated.

Conclusion

The alleviating effect of SIL on NASH may be closely related to the correction of intestinal bacteria disorder, serum bile acid, and lipid metabolic disturbance in mice.

The Different Mechanisms of Lipid Accumulation in Hepatocytes Induced by Oleic Acid/Palmitic Acid and High-Fat Diet

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the primary chronic liver disease worldwide, mainly manifested by hepatic steatosis. Hepatic lipids may be derived from dietary intake, plasma free fatty acid (FFA) uptake, or hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Currently, cellular and animal models of hepatocellular steatosis are widely used to study the pathogenesis of NAFLD and to investigate therapeutic agents. However, whether there are differences between the in vivo and in vitro models of the mechanisms that cause lipid accumulation has not been reported. We used OA/PA-induced NCTC 1469 cells and high-fat-diet-fed C57BL/6J mice to simulate a hepatocyte steatosis model of NAFLD and to detect indicators related to FFA uptake and DNL. In addition, when serological indicators were analysed in the mouse model, it was found that serum FASN levels decreased. The results revealed that, in the cellular model, indicators related to DNL were decreased, FASN enzyme activity was unchanged, and indicators related to FFA uptake were increased, including the high expression of CD36; while, in the animal model, indicators related to both FFA uptake and de novo synthesis were increased, including the high expression of CD36 and the increased protein levels of FASN with enhanced enzyme activity. In addition, after an analysis of the serological indicators in the mouse model, it was found that the serum levels of FASN were reduced. In conclusion, the OA/PA-induced cellular model can be used to study the mechanism of FFA uptake, whereas the high-fat-diet-induced mouse model can be used to study the mechanism of FFA uptake and DNL. Combined treatment with CD36 and FASN may be more effective against NAFLD. FASN in the serum can be used as one of the indicators for the clinical diagnosis of NAFLD.

Silibinin alleviates intestinal inflammation via inhibiting JNK signaling in Drosophila

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are characterized by chronic relapsing intestinal inflammation that causes digestive system dysfunction. For years, researchers have been working to find more effective and safer therapeutic strategies to treat these diseases. Silibinin (SIL), a flavonoid compound extracted from the seeds of milk thistle plants, possesses multiple biological activities and is traditionally applied to treat liver diseases. SIL is also widely used in the treatment of a variety of inflammatory diseases attributed to its excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the efficacy of SIL against IBDs and its mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism, we found that SIL can effectively relieve intestinal inflammation caused by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Our results suggested that SIL supplementation can inhibit the overproliferation of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) induced by DSS, protect intestinal barrier function, acid-base balance, and intestinal excretion function, reduce intestinal reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and inflammatory stress, and extend the lifespan of Drosophila. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that SIL ameliorates intestinal inflammation via modulating the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway in Drosophila. Our research aims to provide new insight into the treatment of IBDs.

Melatonin ameliorates simulated-microgravity-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and lipid metabolism dysregulation in hepatocytes

The liver is an essential multifunctional organ, which constantly communicates with nearly all tissues. It has raised the concern that microgravity exposure can lead to liver dysfunction and metabolic syndromes. However, molecular mechanisms and intervention measures of the adverse effects of microgravity on hepatocytes are limited. In this study, we utilized the random positioning machine culture system to investigate the adverse effects on hepatocytes under simulated microgravity (SMG). Our results showed that SMG impaired hepatocyte viability, causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Compared to normal gravity, it also triggered lipid accumulation, elevated triglyceride (TG) and ROS levels, and impaired mitochondria function in hepatocytes. Furthermore, RNA sequencing results showed that SMG upregulated genes implicated in lipid metabolisms, including PPARγ, PLIN2, CD36, FABPs, etc. Importantly, all these defects can be suppressed by melatonin, a potent antioxidant secreted by the pineal gland, suggesting its potential use of therapeutic intervention.

Silibinin ameliorates deoxycholic acid-induced pyroptosis in steatotic HepG2 cells by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents an inflammatory subtype of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome triggers pyroptosis, thus propelling the progression from simple steatosis to NASH. Silibinin, a hepatoprotective compound derived from milk thistle, exerts diverse hepatoprotective effects. However, the direct impact of silibinin on NLRP3 inflammasome activation and its ability to mitigate pyroptosis remain uncertain. To address this, we utilized an in vitro model of NASH, employing HepG2 cells treated with deoxycholic acid (DCA) and free fatty acids. Subsequently, we treated these model cells with silibinin for 24 h. Our findings demonstrated that, although there were no significant changes in cellular lipid content, silibinin effectively ameliorated hepatocyte injuries. Silibinin treatment inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and suppressed DCA-induced pyroptosis. Additionally, molecular docking analysis revealed that silibinin exhibited a binding affinity to components of the NLRP3 inflammasome similar to that of MCC950, a selective NLRP3 inhibitor. These results suggest that silibinin may alleviate inflammation in DCA-exposed HepG2 cells by mitigating pyroptosis, possibly through its binding affinity and inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Overall, our study indicates that silibinin holds promise as a therapeutic agent for NASH by modulating pyroptosis and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Mitochondrial heterogeneity in diseases

As key organelles involved in cellular metabolism, mitochondria frequently undergo adaptive changes in morphology, components and functions in response to various environmental stresses and cellular demands. Previous studies of mitochondria research have gradually evolved, from focusing on morphological change analysis to systematic multiomics, thereby revealing the mitochondrial variation between cells or within the mitochondrial population within a single cell. The phenomenon of mitochondrial variation features is defined as mitochondrial heterogeneity. Moreover, mitochondrial heterogeneity has been reported to influence a variety of physiological processes, including tissue homeostasis, tissue repair, immunoregulation, and tumor progression. Here, we comprehensively review the mitochondrial heterogeneity in different tissues under pathological states, involving variant features of mitochondrial DNA, RNA, protein and lipid components. Then, the mechanisms that contribute to mitochondrial heterogeneity are also summarized, such as the mutation of the mitochondrial genome and the import of mitochondrial proteins that result in the heterogeneity of mitochondrial DNA and protein components. Additionally, multiple perspectives are investigated to better comprehend the mysteries of mitochondrial heterogeneity between cells. Finally, we summarize the prospective mitochondrial heterogeneity-targeting therapies in terms of alleviating mitochondrial oxidative damage, reducing mitochondrial carbon stress and enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis to relieve various pathological conditions. The possibility of recent technological advances in targeted mitochondrial gene editing is also discussed.

iTRAQ-based quantitative proteomics analysis of the effect of ACT001 on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in mice

ACT001 is a novel sesquiterpene lactone derivative that has been shown to have significant antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the effect of ACT001 on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is unknown. Methionine and choline deficient (MCD) diet induced NASH model in C57BL/6J mice. Steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis-related indices of serum and liver tissues were detected by fully automated biochemical analyzer, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, flow cytometry, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson and immunohistochemical staining. The results showed that ACT001 reduced serum lipid and inflammatory factor levels, attenuated hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis, and inhibited hepatic oxidative stress and activation of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammatory vesicles in NASH mice. In addition, 381 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), including 162 up-regulated and 219 down-regulated proteins, were identified in the MCD group and ACT001 high-dose group using isotope labeling relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) technique analysis. Among these DEPs, five proteins associated with NAFLD were selected for real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) validation, and the results were consistent with proteomics. In conclusion, ACT001 has a therapeutic effect on NASH, and the results of proteomic analysis will provide new ideas for the mechanism study of ACT001 for NASH treatment.

The great potential of flavonoids as candidate drugs for NAFLD

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a global prevalence of approximately 25 % and is associated with high morbidity and high mortality. NAFLD is a leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Its pathophysiology is complex and still poorly understood, and there are no drugs used in the clinic to specifically treat NAFLD. Its pathogenesis involves the accumulation of excess lipids in the liver, leading to lipid metabolism disorders and inflammation. Phytochemicals with the potential to prevent or treat excess lipid accumulation have recently received increasing attention, as they are potentially more suitable for long-term use than are traditional therapeutic compounds. In this review, we summarize the classification, biochemical properties, and biological functions of flavonoids and how they are used in the treatment of NAFLD. Highlighting the roles and pharmacological uses of these compounds will be of importance for enhancing the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.

The Role of Selective Flavonoids on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: An Update

Among the many types of breast cancer (BC), Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is the most alarming. It lacks receptors for the three main biomarkers: estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor, hence the name TNBC. This makes its treatment a challenge. Surgical procedures and chemotherapy, performed either alone or in combination, seem to be the primary therapeutic possibilities; however, they are accompanied by severe complications. Currently, the formulation of drugs using natural products has been playing an important role in the pharmaceutical industries, owing to the drugs’ increased efficacies and significantly lessened side effects. Hence, treating TNBC with chemotherapeutic drugs developed using natural products such as flavonoids in the near future is much warranted. Flavonoids are metabolic compounds largely present in all plants, vegetables, and fruits, such as blueberries, onions, (which are widely used to make red wine,) chocolates, etc. Flavonoids are known to have enormous health benefits, such as anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic properties. They are known to arrest the cell cycle of the tumor cells and induces apoptosis by modulating Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase activity. They show a considerable effect on cell proliferation and viability and angiogenesis. Various studies were performed at both the biochemical and molecular levels. The importance of flavonoids in cancer treatment and its methods of extraction and purification to date have been reported as individual publications. However, this review article explains the potentiality of flavonoids against TNBC in the preclinical levels and also emphasizes their molecular mechanism of action, along with a brief introduction to its methods of extraction, isolation, and purification in general, emphasizing the fact that its quantum of yield if enhanced and its possible synergistic effects with existing chemotherapeutics may pave the way for better anticancer agents of natural origin and significantly lessened side-effects.

The novel hepatoprotective mechanisms of silibinin-phospholipid complex against d-GalN/LPS-induced acute liver injury

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Silibinin-phospholipid complex (SPC) has been utilized to treat acute liver injury clinically. Nevertheless, the hepatoprotective mechanism of SPC remains to be further dissected in response to new insights into the pathogenesis of acute liver injury. Very recently, we have documented, for the first time, that M2-like macrophages exert the hepatoprotection against acute insult through inhibiting necroptosis-S100A9-necroinflammation. In the present work, we integrated this new finding into the mechanism of action of SPC, and attempted to dissect the hepatoprotective mechanism of SPC from this new perspective.

METHODS

SPC and corresponding controls were administered intragastrically into control mice subjected to d-GalN/LPS challenge. The hepatic damage was assessed, and the expression of necroptosis-S100A9-necroinflammation signaling molecules was detected. The correlation between SPC and macrophage activation was investigated. The expression of miR-223-3p and its regulation on macrophage activation were analyzed. The targeted inhibitory effects of miR-223-3p on necroptosis and necroinflammation signaling molecules were confirmed.

RESULTS

SPC alleviated remarkably the hepatic damage triggered by d-GalN/LPS. The administration of SPC inhibited the expression of necroptosis-S100A9-necroinflammation signaling molecules. The levels of M2-like macrophage markers were increased significantly in SPC-treated mice or macrophages. miR-223-3p expression was enhanced in SPC-treated mice. miR-223-3p transfer led to up-regulated expression of M2-like macrophage markers. miR-223-3p directly targeted 3' UTR of RIPK3 and NLRP3, and the expression of necroptosis and necroinflammation signaling molecules was inhibited in miR-223-3p-transferred hepatocytes and macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

SPC alleviates acute liver injury through up-regulating the expression of miR-223-3p. MiR-223-3p further promotes M2-like macrophage activation and the targeted inhibition of necroptosis and necroinflammation. Our findings provide novel insight into the hepatoprotective mechanism of SPC against acute liver injury.

BMP7 ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration in type 1 diabetic rats by inhibiting pyroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells and NLRP3 inflammasome activity

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence indicates that intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is associated with diabetes mellitus (DM), while the underlying mechanisms still remain elusive. Herein, the current study sought to explore the potential molecular mechanism of IDD in diabetic rats based on transcriptome sequencing data.

METHODS

Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM) rats were used to obtain the nucleus pulposus tissues for transcriptome sequencing. Next, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in transcriptome sequencing data and GSE34000 microarray dataset were obtained and intersected to acquire the candidate genes. Moreover, GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed to analyze the cellular functions and molecular signaling pathways primarily regulated by candidate DEGs.

RESULTS

A total of 35 key genes involved in IDD of T1DM rats were mainly enriched in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cytokine adhesion binding-related pathways. NLRP3 inflammasome activation promoted the pyroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Besides, BMP7 could affect the IDD of T1DM rats by regulating the inflammatory responses. Additionally, NPCs were isolated from STZ-induced T1DM rats to illustrate the effects of BMP7 on IDD of T1DM rats using the ectopic expression method. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments validated that BMP7 alleviated IDD of T1DM rats by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis of NPCs.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our findings provided novel mechanistic insights for understanding of the role of BMP7 in IDD of T1DM, and further highlighted BMP7 as a potential therapeutic target for preventing IDD in T1DM.

Melatonin ameliorates myocardial infarction in obese diabetic individuals: The possible involvement of macrophage apoptotic factors

In recent days, the hike in obesity-mediated epidemics across the globe and the prevalence of obesity-induced cardiovascular disease has become one of the chief grounds for morbidity and mortality. This epidemic-driven detrimental events in the cardiac tissues start with the altered distribution and metabolism pattern of high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) leading to cholesterol (oxidized LDL) deposition on the arterial wall and atherosclerotic plaque generation, followed by vascular spasms and infarction. Subsequently, obesity-triggered metabolic malfunctions induce free radical generation which may further trigger pro-inflammatory signaling and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells transcriptional factor, thus inducing interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and inducible nitric oxide synthase. This terrifying cardiomyopathy can be further aggravated in type 2 diabetes mellitus, thereby making obese diabetic patients prone toward the development of myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke in comparison to their nondiabetic counterparts. The accelerated oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory response induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, followed by apoptosis in obese diabetic individuals, causing progression of athero-thrombotic vascular disease. Being an efficient antioxidative and anti-inflammatory indolamine, melatonin effectively inhibits lipid peroxidation, pro-inflammatory reactions, thereby resolving free radical-induced myocardial damages along with maintaining antioxidant reservoir to preserve cardiovascular integrity. Prolonged melatonin treatment maintains balanced body weight and serum total cholesterol concentration by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and promoting cholesterol catabolism. Additionally, melatonin promotes macrophage polarization toward the anti-inflammatory state, providing a proper shield during the recovery period. Therefore, the protective role of melatonin in maintaining the lipid metabolism homeostasis and blocking the atherosclerotic plaque rupture could be targeted as the possible therapeutic strategy for the management of obesity-induced acute MI. This review aimed at orchestrating the efficacy of melatonin in ameliorating irrevocable oxidative cardiovascular damage induced by the obesity-diabetes correlation.