Lycopene amends LPS induced oxidative stress and hypertriglyceridemia via modulating PCSK-9 expression and Apo-CIII mediated lipoprotein lipase activity

Role of CETP, PCSK-9, and CYP7-alpha in cholesterol metabolism: Potential targets for natural products in managing hypercholesterolemia

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, primarily affecting the heart and blood vessels, with atherosclerosis being a major contributing factor to their onset. Epidemiological and clinical studies have linked high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) emanating from distorted cholesterol homeostasis as its major predisposing factor. Cholesterol homeostasis, which involves maintaining the balance in body cholesterol level, is mediated by several proteins or receptors, transcription factors, and even genes, regulating cholesterol influx (through dietary intake or de novo synthesis) and efflux (by their conversion to bile acids). Previous knowledge about CVDs management has evolved around modulating these receptors' activities through synthetic small molecules/antibodies, with limited interest in natural products. The central roles of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), and cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily A member 1 (CYP7A1), among other proteins or receptors, have fostered growing scientific interests in understanding more on their regulatory activities and potential as drug targets. We present up-to-date knowledge on the contributions of CETP, PCSK9, and CYP7A1 toward CVDs, highlighting the clinical successes and failures of small molecules/antibodies to modulate their activities. In recommendation for a new direction to improve cardiovascular health, we have presented recent findings on natural products (including functional food, plant extracts, phytochemicals, bioactive peptides, and therapeutic carbohydrates) that also modulate the activities of CETP, PCSK-9, and CYP7A1, and emphasized the need for more research efforts redirected toward unraveling more on natural products potentials even at clinical trial level for CVD management.

Linear association of compound dietary antioxidant index with hyperlipidemia: a cross-sectional study

Background

There is growing evidence that antioxidant-rich diets may prevent hyperlipidemia. However, the relationship between the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and hyperlipidemia is unclear. The CDAI is a composite score reflecting the antioxidant content of an individual's diet, and this study aimed to investigate the relationship between CDAI and hyperlipidemia.

Methods

The study used the 2003-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for cross-sectional analyses and included 27,626 participants aged 20 years and older. The CDAI, which includes vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, selenium, and carotenoids, was calculated based on dietary intake reported in a 24-h recall interview. Hyperlipidemia was defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Covariates included age, sex, race, education, marriage, household poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), body mass index (BMI), energy, carbohydrates, total fat, cholesterol, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, and lipid-lowering medications. The association between CDAI and hyperlipidemia was explored through multiple logistic regression analyses and smoothed curve fitting. We also performed subgroup analyses and interaction tests to verify the relationship's stability.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, CDAI was negatively associated with the risk of developing hyperlipidemia (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99, p < 0.01). The results of weighted regression models stratified by quartiles of CDAI (-8.664 ≤ Q1 ≤ -2.209, -2.209 < Q2 ≤ -0.002, -0.002 < Q3 ≤ 2.774, 2.774 < Q4 ≤ 124.284), fully adjusted for confounding variables, indicated that compared with the bottom quartile (Q1) of the CDAI, Q2, Q3, and Q4 of participants had a lower advantage ratio (Q2: OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.78-1.06, p < 0.21; Q3: OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.73-1.00, p < 0.05; and Q4: OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64-0.94, p < 0.01), which was confirmed by a test for trend (p < 0.05). Smoothed curve fit analysis showed linearity (p for non-linear = 0.0912). In summary, there is a linear negative relationship between CDAI and the risk of developing hyperlipidemia. Subgroup analyses by age, sex, ethnicity, education level, marriage, tobacco status, alcoholic drinking, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, and diabetes did not indicate strong interactions.

Conclusion

In this large cross-sectional study, there was a linear negative association between CDAI and hyperlipidemia among US adults. Therefore increase antioxidant rich foods in your life as a prevention of hyperlipidemia.

The sources, properties, extraction, biosynthesis, pharmacology, and application of lycopene

Lycopene is an important pigment with an alkene skeleton from Lycopersicon esculentum, which is also obtained from some red fruits and vegetables. Lycopene is used in the food field with rich functions and serves in the medical field with multiple clinical values because it has dual functions of both medicine and food. It was found that lycopene was mainly isolated by solvent extraction, ultrasonic-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, high-intensity pulsed electric field-assisted extraction, enzymatic-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction. Meanwhile, it was also obtained via 2 synthetic pathways: chemical synthesis and biosynthesis. Pharmacological studies revealed that lycopene has anti-oxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-cancer, immunity-enhancing, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, cardiovascular-protective, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and osteoporosis-inhibiting effects. The application of lycopene mainly includes food processing, animal breeding, and medical cosmetology fields. It is hoped that this review will provide some useful information and guidance for future study and exploitation of lycopene.

The Importance of Antioxidant Activity for the Health-Promoting Effect of Lycopene

Lycopene is a compound of colored origin that shows strong antioxidant activity. The positive effect of lycopene is the result of its pleiotropic effect. The ability to neutralize free radicals via lycopene is one of the foundations of its pro-health effect, including the ability to inhibit the development of many civilization diseases. Therefore, this study focuses on the importance of the antioxidant effect of lycopene in inhibiting the development of diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diseases within the nervous system, diabetes, liver diseases, and ulcerative colitis. According to the research mentioned, lycopene supplementation has significant promise for the treatment of illnesses marked by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the majority of the supporting data for lycopene's health benefits comes from experimental research, whereas the evidence from clinical studies is both scarcer and less certain of any health benefits. Research on humans is still required to establish its effectiveness.

Novel Functionalized Spiro [Indoline-3,5'-pyrroline]-2,2'dione Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization, Drug-Likeness, ADME, and Anticancer Potential

A highly stereo-selective, one-pot, multicomponent method was chosen to synthesize the novel functionalized 1, 3-cycloaddition spirooxindoles (SOXs) (4a-4h). Synthesized SOXs were analyzed for their drug-likeness and ADME parameters and screened for their anticancer activity. Our molecular docking analysis revealed that among all derivatives of SOXs (4a-4h), 4a has a substantial binding affinity (∆G) -6.65, -6.55, -8.73, and -7.27 Kcal/mol with CD-44, EGFR, AKR1D1, and HER-2, respectively. A functional study demonstrated that SOX 4a has a substantial impact on human cancer cell phenotypes exhibiting abnormality in cytoplasmic and nuclear architecture as well as granule formation leading to cell death. SOX 4a treatment robustly induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in cancer cells as observed by enhanced DCFH-DA signals. Overall, our results suggest that SOX (4a) targets CD-44, EGFR, AKR1D1, and HER-2 and induces ROS generation in cancer cells. We conclude that SOX (4a) could be explored as a potential chemotherapeutic molecule against various cancers in appropriate pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo model systems.

Association of circulatory PCSK-9 with biomarkers of redox imbalance and inflammatory cascades in the prognosis of diabetes and associated complications: a pilot study in the Indian population

AbstractsBesides the profound role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK-9) in LDL-C regulation, its association with other metabolic complications cannot be disregarded. The co-existence of redox imbalance and inflammatory cascades has greatly reflected the etiology of hyperglycemia. Therefore, we studied the association of PCSK-9 with inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers to predict its role in the prognosis of diabetes and its associated complications in the Indian population. This pilot study examined a total of n = 187 subjects: healthy controls (HC; n = 50), diabetic without complication (T2DM; n = 49), diabetic nephropathy (T2DM-N; n = 43), and diabetic dyslipidemic (T2DM-DL; n = 45) subjects. The relationship between circulatory PCSK-9 levels and inflammation and redox imbalance biomarkers has been explored. The significant positive association of elevated PCSK-9 level with the inflammatory (i.e. IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP) and oxidative stress marker (i.e. XOD, CD, LOOH, and MDA) was observed in T2DM-N and T2DM-DL subjects. Whereas single regression analysis depicted that PCSK-9 was inversely associated with the FRAP and PON-1 in T2DM-N and T2DM-DL subjects. Furthermore, no significant correlation was detected in both T2DM and HC subjects. We found a significant relationship between these prognostic biomarkers with an elevated level of PCSK-9 in T2DM-N and T2DM-DL subjects. PCSK-9 is a nontraditional biomarker in diabetes that may help identify patients at risk of developing secondary complications of diabetes in the Indian population. However, further large cohort validation studies are needed.

Antibacterial efficacy of synthesized silver nanoparticles of Microbacterium proteolyticum LA2(R) and Streptomyces rochei LA2(O) against biofilm forming meningitis causing microbes

Actinobacteria obtained from the least explored Indian regions were studied for their ability to suppress meningitis-causing bacteria in nanoparticle form. Drug-resistant bacteria and long-term treatment with different medications make meningitis control complicated. Thus, new meningitis drugs are required to combat MDR bacteria. In this study, secondary metabolites isolated from actinomycetes strains, Microbacterium proteolyticum LA2(R) and Streptomyces rochei LA2(O), were employed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) at 37 °C for seven days incubation. UV-Vis spectroscopy, TEM, FTIR, and HPLC studies were used for the confirmation of the synthesis of AgNPs. Furthermore, these NPs demonstrated antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against meningitis-causing bacteria. The average size of LA2(R) and LA2(O) isolated secondary metabolites mediated AgNPs was observed to be 27 ± 1and 29 ± 2 nm by TEM analysis. FTIR study of RAgNPs and OAgNPs revealed that presence of peaks with positions of 1637.17 cm¹ and 1636.10 cm¹ for C=O amide group appearances in the amide I linkage. These NPs were effective against bacterial pathogens such as S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and N. meningitidis and confirmed by their MICs, i.e., 109.4, 120.60, and 138.80 μg/ml of RAgNPs and 105.80, 114.40 and 129.06 μg/ml of OAgNPs, respectively. Additionally, the production of biofilms is impeded by these nanoparticles on S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and N. meningitidis by 73.14%, 71.89% and 64.81%, respectively. These findings confirm the potential role of synthesized AgNPs against biofilm forming meningitis causing Multidrug resistance (MDR) microbes.

Lycopene: a therapeutic strategy against coronavirus disease 19 (COVID- 19)

Lycopene is a group of phytochemicals found in nature, primarily in fruits and vegetables. Lycopene is thought to protect against a variety of diseases attributed to its antioxidant capabilities. Lycopene has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immunity-boosting qualities, among other biological and pharmacological benefits. COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which has recently emerged as one of the world's leading causes of death. Patients may be asymptomatic or show signs of respiratory, cytokine release syndrome, gastrointestinal, or even multiple organ failure, all of which can lead to death. In COVID-19, inflammation, and cytokine storm are the key pathogenic mechanisms, according to SARS-CoV-2 infection symptoms. ARDS develops in some vulnerable hosts, which is accompanied by an inflammatory "cytokine syndrome" that causes lung damage. Immunological and inflammatory markers were linked to disease severity in mild and severe COVID-19 cases, implying that inflammatory markers, including IL-6, CRP, ESR, and PCT were significantly linked with COVID-19 severity. Patients with severe illness have reduced levels of several immune subsets, including CD4 + T, NK, and CD8 + cells. As a result, lycopene can be commended for bolstering physiological defenses against COVID-19 infections.

Oral Lycopene Administration Attenuates Inflammation and Oxidative Stress by Regulating Plasma Lipids in Rats with Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Epididymitis

Purpose

Epididymitis histological alterations and related long-term reproductive issues cannot be cured by antibiotics alone. Few studies have been done on the effect of lycopene on epididymitis, despite the fact that it is an efficient antioxidant. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of lycopene on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced epididymis and lipid metabolism.

Methods

Thirty-one 260–290g rats were separated into the blank control group (n=10), the oil-control group (n=10), the single intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg LPS (n=5), and the continuous intragastric of 5 mg/kg lycopene (n=6). The animals were euthanized after four weeks, and blood and the epididymis were removed for analysis.

Results

Lycopene significantly decreased IL-1α, IL-1β, TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-6 and lipid peroxidation product Malondialdehyde in serum and epididymis. It significantly increased the epididymis’s antioxidant enzyme and total antioxidant capacity. According to LC-MS plasma lipidomics, lycopene increased phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, decreased phosphatidylethanolamine, triacylglycerol, and diacylglycerol levels, changed the composition of lipids, altered metabolic pathways, and these changes were related to the mechanism of anti-inflammatory and oxidative stress. 20 lipids, including PC (20:5e) and LPC (14:0), were identified through additional Spearman correlation analysis as being related to cytokines and oxidation indices. They served as possible lipid markers that may be utilized to gauge the severity of inflammation.

Conclusion

Lycopene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that improve histopathological and functional damage in LPS-induced epididymitis and is an alternate supplement for treating epididymitis. Lipidomics provide new perspectives on the possible mechanism of lycopene in protecting against LPS-induced epididymitis by integrating lipid metabolism and inflammation.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Natural Product 'C-Phycocyanin' in Alleviating Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes via the Inhibition of Glycation Reaction in Rats

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder characterized by persistently elevated blood sugar levels. Chronic hyperglycemia enhances glucose-protein interactions, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which form irreversible cross-links with a wide variety of macromolecules, and accumulate rapidly in the body tissues. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic properties of C-phycocyanin (C-PC) obtained from Plectonema species against oxidative stress, glycation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rat. Forty-five days of C-PC administration decreased levels of triglycerides (TGs), blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), liver and kidney function indices, and raised body weight in diabetic rats. C-PC suppressed biochemical glycation markers, as well as serum carboxymethyllysine (CML) and fluorescent AGEs. Additionally, C-PC maintained the redox state by lowering lipid peroxidation and protein-bound carbonyl content (CC), enhancing the activity of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and renal antioxidant enzymes, and preserving retinal and renal histopathological characteristics. Thus, we infer that C-PC possesses antidiabetic and antiglycation effects in diabetic rats. C-PC may also act as an antidiabetic and antiglycation agent in vivo that may reduce the risk of secondary diabetic complications.

Metformin encapsulated gold nanoparticles (MTF-GNPs): A promising antiglycation agent

The generation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) through nonenzymatic protein glycation contributes to the pathogenesis of long-lived diabetic problems. Metformin (MTF) is the very first drug having antihyperglycemic effects on type II diabetes mellitus which also possess interaction with dicarbonyl compounds and blocks the formation of AGEs. In the current study, MTF is bioconjugated with glycation-derived synthesized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) of significant size. Additionally, using various biophysical and biochemical approaches, we investigated the antiglycating capacity MTF-GNPs in contrast to MTF against d-ribose-derived glycation of bovine serum albumin. Our key findings via utilizing various assays demonstrated that MTF-GNPs were able to inhibit AGEs development by reducing hyperchromicity, early glycation products, carbonyl content, hydxoxymethylfurfural content, production of fluorescent AGEs, normalizing the loss of secondary structure (i.e., α-helix and β-sheets) of proteins, elevating the levels of free lysine and free arginine more efficiently compared to pure MTF. Based on these results, we concluded that MTF-GNPs possess a considerable antiglycation property and may be developed as an outstanding anti-AGEs treatment drug. Further in vivo and clinical research are necessary to determine the therapeutic effects of MTF-GNPs against AGE-related and metabolic disorders.

d-ribose-mediated glycation of fibrinogen: Role in the induction of adaptive immune response

A nonenzymatic reaction between reducing sugars and amino groups of proteins results in the formation of advanced glycation end products, which are linked to a number of chronic progressive diseases with macro- and microvascular complications. In this research, we sought to ascertain the immunological response to d-ibose-glycated fibrinogen. New Zealand White female rabbits were immunized with native and d-ribose-glycated (Rb-gly-Fb) fibrinogen and used for studying the immunological response. Serum from these rabbits analyzed using direct binding and competitive inhibition ELISA was found to contain a high titer of antibodies against Rb-gly-Fb; Rb-gly-Fb was much more immunogenic than its native form. The IgG against Rb-gly-Fb (Rb-gly-Fb-IgG) was highly specific against the immunogenic protein. Moreover, histopathology and immunofluorescence studies revealed the deposition of the Rb-gly-Fb-IgG immune complex in the glomerular basement membrane of the kidneys of immunized rabbits. Furthermore, immunization with Rb-gly-Fb increased the expression of genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and interferon-gamma, which is indicative of increased inflammation and the antigenic role of Rb-gly-Fb in provoking an immune response.

Targeted non AR mediated smart delivery of abiraterone to the prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the second-deadliest tumor in men all over the world. Different types of drugs with various delivery systems and pathways were developed, but no one showed prominent results against cancer. Meanwhile, nanoparticles have shown good results against cancer. Therefore, in the given study, citrate mediated synthesized gold nanoparticles (CtGNPs) with immobilized survivin antibodies (SvGNPs) were bioconjugated to the substantially potent drug abiraterone (AbSvGNPs) to develop as a combinatorial therapeutic against prostate cancer. The AbSvGNPs are made up of CtGNPs, survivin antibodies, and abiraterone. The selected drug abiraterone (Abira) possesses exceptionally good activity against prostate cancer, but cancer cells develop resistance against this drug and it also poses several severe side effects. Meanwhile, survivin antibodies were used to deliver AbSvGNPs specifically into cancer cells by considering survivin, an anti-apoptotic overexpressed protein in cancer cells, as a marker. The survivin antibodies have also been used to inhibit cancer cells as an immunotherapeutic agent. Similarly, CtGNPs were discovered to inhibit cancer cell proliferation via several transduction pathways. The given bioconjugated nanoparticles (AbSvGNPs) were found to be substantially effective against prostate cancer with an IC50 of 11.8 and 7.3 μM against DU145 and PC-3 cells, respectively. However, it was found safe against NRK and showed less than 25% cytotoxicity up to 20μM concentration. The as-synthesized nanoparticles CtGNPs, SvGNPs, and AbSvGNPs were characterized by several physical techniques to confirm their synthesis, whereas the immobilization of survivin antibodies and bioconjugation of Abira was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy, DLS, TEM, FTIR, and zeta-potential. The anticancer potential of AbSvGNPs was determined by MTT, DAPI, ROS, MITO, TUNEL ASSAY, and caspase-3 activity against DU145 and PC3 cells.

Bilosomes as Nanoplatform for Oral Delivery and Modulated In Vivo Antimicrobial Activity of Lycopene

Owing to the disseminating resistance among pathogenic bacteria, especially Klebsiella pneumoniae, there is a high need for alternate compounds with antibacterial activity. Herein, lycopene was isolated from Lycopersicon esculentum L. Molecular docking approach was employed to explore lycopene binding affinity to selected vital proteins of K. pneumoniae with the binding mechanisms being investigated. This proposed a promising antibacterial activity of lycopene. However, the pharmacological use of lycopene is hampered by its poor solubility and limited oral bioavailability. Accordingly, bilosomes were fabricated for oral lycopene delivery. The computed entrapment efficiency, mean vesicular size, and zeta potential values for the optimized formulation were 93.2 ± 0.6%, 485.8 ± 35.3 nm, and −38.3 ± 4, respectively. In vitro drug release studies revealed controlled lycopene release from constructed bilosomes, with the drug liberation being based on the Higuchi kinetics model. Transmission electron microscopic evaluation of bilosomes revealed spherical nanovesicles free from aggregates. Moreover, the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activity of lycopene and its constructed formulations against multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates were explored. The optimized bilosomes exhibited the lowest minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 8 to 32 µg/mL. In addition, scanning electron microscopy revealed remarkable deformation and lysis of the bilosomes-treated bacterial cells. Regarding in vivo investigation, a lung infection model in mice was employed. The tested bilosomes reduced the inflammation and congestion in the treated mice’s lung tissues, resulting in normal-sized bronchioles and alveoli with very few congested vessels. In addition, it resulted in a significant reduction in pulmonary fibrosis. In conclusion, this study investigated the potential activity of the naturally isolated lycopene in controlling infections triggered by multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates. Furthermore, it introduced bilosomes as a promising biocompatible nanocarrier for modulation of oral lycopene delivery and in vivo antimicrobial activity.

Carvacrol protects against carbonyl osmolyte-induced structural modifications and aggregation to serum albumin: Insights from physicochemical and molecular interaction studies

The robust use of osmolytes (i.e., polyols and sugars) in the key therapeutic regimens/formulations has questioned their impact beyond the stability of therapeutic proteins as these osmolytes trigger structural alterations into proteins including misfolding and subsequent aggregation into amyloid fibrils. Therefore, the current study is the first to delineate the inhibitory effect of carvacrol (CRV) on the carbonyl osmolyte-induced aggregation as well as structural alterations to the bovine serum albumin (BSA) via a set of physicochemical as well as artificial intelligence (AI)-based molecular docking studies. Our initial findings from physicochemical investigations revealed that CRV exhibits substantial protection to BSA under carbonyl osmolyte stress as evident by the compromised hyperchromicity, Schiff's bases, carbonyl and hydroxymethyl furfural content, reduced fluorescent signals, low Rayleigh scattering and prevention of covalent modifications at Lys and Arg residues. The protection against aggregate formation by CRV was further confirmed through the reduced amyloid-specific congo red absorbance as well as fluorescent signals recorded after adding the fibril-specific extrinsic fluorophore probes (i.e., ThT and ANS). The AI-based molecular docking analysis further revealed that CRV (ΔG: -4.96 kcal/mol) competes with d-fructose (ΔG: -4.40 kcal/mol) to mask the Lys and Arg residues to restrict the osmolyte-mediated protein modifications. In conclusion, CRV exhibits substantial protective impact against carbonyl osmolyte-induced structural alterations and protein misfolding and aggregation.

Cardiovascular Disease and Possible Ways in Which Lycopene Acts as an Efficient Cardio-Protectant against Different Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Foods rich in antioxidants such as lycopene have a major role in maintaining cardiac health. Lycopene, 80% of which can be obtained by consuming a common vegetable such as tomato, can prevent the disturbances that contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The present work begins with a brief introduction to CVD and lycopene and its various properties such as bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, etc. In this review, the potential cardio-protective effects of lycopene that reduce the progression of CVD and thrombotic complications are detailed. Further, the protective effects of lycopene including in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials conducted on lycopene for CVD protective effects are explained. Finally, the controversial aspect of lycopene as a protective agent against CVD and toxicity are also mentioned.

Computational Design and Biological Evaluation of Analogs of Lupin Peptide P5 Endowed with Dual PCSK9/HMG-CoAR Inhibiting Activity

(1) Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is responsible for the degradation of the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which regulates the circulating cholesterol level. In this field, we discovered natural peptides derived from lupin that showed PCSK9 inhibitory activity. Among these, the most active peptide, known as P5 (LILPHKSDAD), reduced the protein-protein interaction between PCSK9 and LDLR with an IC₅₀ equals to 1.6 µM and showed a dual hypocholesterolemic activity, since it shows complementary inhibition of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoAR). (2) Methods: In this study, by a computational approach, the P5 primary structure was optimized to obtain new analogs with improved affinity to PCSK9. Then, biological assays were carried out for fully characterizing the dual cholesterol-lowering activity of the P5 analogs by using both biochemical and cellular techniques. (3) Results: A new peptide, P5-Best (LYLPKHSDRD) displayed improved PCSK9 (IC₅₀ 0.7 µM) and HMG-CoAR (IC₅₀ 88.9 µM) inhibitory activities. Moreover, in vitro biological assays on cells demonstrated that, not only P5-Best, but all tested peptides maintained the dual PCSK9/HMG-CoAR inhibitory activity and remarkably P5-Best exerted the strongest hypocholesterolemic effect. In fact, in the presence of this peptide, the ability of HepG2 cells to absorb extracellular LDL was improved by up to 254%. (4) Conclusions: the atomistic details of the P5-Best/PCSK9 and P5-Best/HMG-CoAR interactions represent a reliable starting point for the design of new promising molecular entities endowed with hypocholesterolemic activity.

Potential dual inhibitors of PCSK-9 and HMG-R from natural sources in cardiovascular risk management

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) stands amongst the leading causes of mortality worldwide and has attracted the attention of world's leading pharmaceutical companies in order to tackle such mortalities. The low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) is considered the most prominent biomarker for the assessment of ASCVD risk. Distinct inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMG-R), the chief hepatic cholesterogenic enzyme, are being used since last seven decades to manage hypercholesterolemia. On the other hand, discovery and the association of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK-9) with increased ASCVD risk have established PCSK-9 as a novel therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine. PCSK-9 is well reckoned to facilitate the LDL-receptor (LDL-R) degradation and compromised LDL-C clearance leading to the arterial atherosclerotic plaque formation. The currently available HMG-R inhibitors (statins) and PCSK-9 inhibitors (siRNA, anti-sense oligonucleotides, and monoclonal antibodies) have shown great promises in achieving LDL-C lowering goals, however, their life long prescriptions have raised significant concerns. These deficits associated with the synthetic HMG-R and PCSK-9 inhibitors called for the discovery of alternative therapeutic candidates with potential dual HMG-R and PCSK-9 inhibitory activities from natural origins. Therefore, this report firstly describes the mechanistic insights into the cholesterol homeostasis through HMG-R, PCSK-9, and LDL-R functionality and then compiles the pharmacological effects of natural secondary metabolites with special emphasis on their dual HMG-R and PCSK-9 inhibitory action. In conclusion, various natural products exhibit atheroprotective effects via targeting HMG-R and PCSK-9 activities and lipoprotein metabolism, however, further clinical assessments are still warranted prior their approval for ASCVD risk management in hypercholesterolemic patients.

Bioprospecting of the novel isolate Microbacterium proteolyticum LA2(R) from the rhizosphere of Rauwolfia serpentina

The study aimed to assess the proficiency of secondary metabolites (SMs) synthesized by actinobacteria isolated from the rhizospheric soil of Rauwolfia serpentina for its antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity. After morphological and biochemical identification of actinobacteria, primary and secondary screening was done for specific metabolite production. The secondary metabolites were then tested for their antioxidant, antibacterial, and antibiofilm potential. Out of 29 bacterial colonies isolated, only one emerged as a novel isolate, Microbacterium LA2(R). Partial 16S rRNA gene sequence of the isolate LA2(R) was deposited in NCBI GenBank with accession number MN560041. The highest antioxidant capacity of the methanolic extract the novel isolate was found to be 474.183 µL AAE/mL and 319.037 µL AAE/mL by DPPH assay and ABTS assay respectively; three folds higher than the control. These results were further supported by the high total phenolic (194.95 gallic acid equivalents/mL) and flavonoid contents (332.79 µL quercetin equivalents/mL) of the methanolic extract. GC–MS analysis revealed the abundance of antibacterial compounds; where, n-Hexadecanoic acid was found to be the major compound present with a peak of 14 min retention time (RT) and 95% similarity index. MIC value of the metabolite was noted to be around 132.28 ± 84.48 μg/mL. The IC₅₀ value was found to be 74.37, 71.33, 66.28 and 84.48 μg/mL against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Salmonella abony, respectively. Treatment with IC₅₀ of the extract decreased the biofilm formation up to 70%–80% against pathogenic strains viz. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella abony. These significant activities of Microbacterium sp. LA2(R) suggests that it could be utilized for antibiotic production for human welfare and in various important industrial applications.

Lycopene in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of human mortality worldwide. Oxidative stress and inflammation are pathophysiological processes involved in the development of CVD. That is why bioactive food ingredients, including lycopene, are so important in their prevention, which seems to be a compound increasingly promoted in the diet of people with cardiovascular problems. Lycopene present in tomatoes and tomato products is responsible not only for their red color but also for health-promoting properties. It is characterized by a high antioxidant potential, the highest among carotenoid pigments. Mainly for this reason, epidemiological studies show a number of favorable properties between the consumption of lycopene in the diet and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. While there is also some controversy in research into its protective effects on the cardiovascular system, growing evidence supports its beneficial role for the heart, endothelium, blood vessels, and health. The mechanisms of action of lycopene are now being discovered and may explain some of the contradictions observed in the literature. This review aims to present the current knowledge in recent years on the preventive role of lycopene cardiovascular disorders.

Is Apo-CIII the new cardiovascular target? An analysis of its current clinical and dietetic therapies

AIMS

Recently, Apolipoprotein CIII (Apo-CIII) has gained remarkable attention since its overexpression has been strongly correlated to cardiovascular disease (CVD) occurrence. The aim of this review was to summarize the latest findings of Apo-CIII as a CVDs and diabetes risk factor, as well as the plausible mechanisms involved in the development of these pathologies, with particular emphasis on current clinical and dietetic therapies.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Apo-CIII is a small protein (∼8.8 kDa) that, among other functions, inhibits lipoprotein lipase, a key enzyme in lipid metabolism. Apo-CIII plays a fundamental role in the physiopathology of atherosclerosis, type-1, and type-2 diabetes. Apo-CIII has become a potential clinical target to tackle these multifactorial diseases. Dietetic (omega-3 fatty acids, stanols, polyphenols, lycopene) and non-dietetic (fibrates, statins, and antisense oligonucleotides) therapies have shown promising results to regulate Apo-CIII and triglyceride levels. However, more information from clinical trials is required to validate it as a new target for atherosclerosis and diabetes types 1 and 2.

CONCLUSIONS

There are still several pathways involving Apo-CIII regulation that might be affected by bioactive compounds that need further research. The mechanisms that trigger metabolic responses following bioactive compounds consumption are mainly related to higher LPL expression and PPARα activation, although the complete pathways are yet to be elucidated.

Combining novel technologies with interdisciplinary basic research to enhance horticultural crops

Horticultural crops mainly include fruits, vegetables, ornamental trees and flowers, and tea trees (Melaleuca alternifolia). They produce a variety of nutrients for the daily human diet in addition to the nutrition provided by staple crops, and some of them additionally possess ornamental and medicinal features. As such, horticultural crops make unique and important contributions to both food security and a colorful lifestyle. Under the current climate change scenario, the growing population and limited arable land means that agriculture, and especially horticulture, has been facing unprecedented challenges to meet the diverse demands of human daily life. Breeding horticultural crops with high quality and adaptability and establishing an effective system that combines cultivation, post-harvest handling, and sales becomes increasingly imperative for horticultural production. This review discusses characteristic and recent research highlights in horticultural crops, focusing on the breeding of quality traits and the mechanisms that underpin them. It additionally addresses challenges and potential solutions in horticultural production and post-harvest practices. Finally, we provide a prospective as to how emerging technologies can be implemented alongside interdisciplinary basic research to enhance our understanding and exploitation of horticultural crops.

Potentially Bioactive Fungus Mediated Silver Nanoparticles

Fungal metabolites, proteins, and enzymes have been rich sources of therapeutics so far. Therefore, in this study, the hypha extract of a newly identified noble fungus (Alternaria sp. with NCBI Accession number: MT982648) was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (F-AgNPs) to utilize against bacteria, fungi, and lung cancer. F-AgNPs were characterized by using physical techniques, including UV–visible spectroscopy, zeta potential, DLS, XRD, TEM, and HR-TEM. The particles were found to be polydispersed and quasi-spherical in shape under TEM. They had an average size of ~15 nm. The well dispersed particles were found to have consistent crystallinity with cubic phase geometry under XRD and HR-TEM. The presence of different functional groups on the surfaces of biosynthesized F-AgNPs was confirmed by FTIR. The particle distribution index was found to be 0.447 with a hydrodynamic diameter of ~47 d.nm, and the high value of zeta potential (−20.3 mV) revealed the stability of the nanoemulsion. These particles were found to be active against Staphylococcus aureus (multidrug resistance-MDR), Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella abony, and Escherichia coli (MDR) with MIC₅₀ 10.3, 12.5, 22.69, and 16.25 µg/mL, respectively. Particles also showed inhibition against fungal strains, including A. flavus, A. niger, T. viridens, and F. oxysporium. Their inhibition of biofilm formation by the same panel of bacteria was also found to be very promising and ranged from 16.66 to 64.81%. F-AgNPs also showed anticancer potential (IC₅₀—21.6 µg/mL) with respect to methotrexate (IC₅₀—17.7 µg/mL) against lung cancer cell line A549, and they did not result in any significant inhibition of the normal cell line BEAS-2. The particles were found to alter the mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby disturbing ATP synthesis and leading to high ROS formation, which are responsible for cell membrane damage and release of LDH, intracellular proteins, lipids, and DNA. A high level of ROS also elicits pro-inflammatory signaling cascades that lead to programmed cell death by either apoptosis or necrosis.

Glycyrrhizic Acid Scavenges Reactive Carbonyl Species and Attenuates Glycation-Induced Multiple Protein Modification: An In Vitro and In Silico Study

The current study is aimed at studying the inhibitory effect of glycyrrhizic acid (GA) on D-ribose-mediated protein glycation via various physicochemical analyses and in silico approaches. Being a potent free radical scavenger and a triterpenoid saponin, GA plays a vital role in diminishing the oxidative stress and thus could be an effective inhibitor of the nonenzymatic glycation process. Our data showed that varying concentrations of GA inhibited the in vitro BSA-AGEs via inhibiting the formation of fructosamines, fluorescent AGEs, scavenging protein carbonyl and hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) content, and protection against D-ribose-induced modification of BSA as evident by increased free Arg and Lys residues in GA-treated Gly-BSA samples. Moreover, GA also attenuated D-ribose-induced alterations in the secondary structure of BSA by protecting the α-helix and β-sheet conformers and amide-I band delocalization. In addition, GA attenuated the modification in β-cross amyloid structures of BSA and in silico molecular interaction study too showed strong binding of GA with higher number of Lys and Arg residues of BSA and binding energy (ΔG) of -8.8 Kcal/mol, when compared either to reference standard aminoguanidine (AG)-BSA complex (ΔG: -4.3 Kcal/mol) or D-ribose-BSA complex (ΔG: -5.2 Kcal/mol). Therefore, GA could be a new and favorable inhibitor of the nonenzymatic glycation process that ameliorates AGEs-related complications via attenuating the AGE formation and glycation-induced multiple protein modifications with a reduced risk of adverse effects on protein structure and functionality; hence, it could be investigated at further preclinical settings for the treatment and management of diabetes and age-associated complications.

A Comparative Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Antineoplastic Potential of Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Leaf Extract with Its Biologically Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles (R-AuNPs)

Rauwolfia serpentina (R. serpentina), belonging to the family Apocynaceae, is a renowned medicinal herb for its different pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative characteristics. This study has done a comparative assessment of the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity of R. serpentina aqueous leaf extract (RSALE) with encapsulated gold nanoparticles (R-AuNPs). The R-AuNPs are prepared so that they are significant in size, monodispersed, and extremely stable. Their characterization was done by numerous parameters, including UV-visible spectroscopy (528 nm), transmission electron microscopy (~17 d. nm), dynamic light scattering (~68 d. nm), and zeta-potential (~-17 mV). Subsequently, a potent antibacterial activity was depicted via RSALE and R-AuNPs when examined by disc diffusion against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The obtained zones of inhibition of RSALE (100 mg/mL) were 34 ± 0.1, 35 ± 0.1, 28.4 ± 0.01, and 18 ± 0.01, although those of R-AuNPs (15 mg/mL) were 24.4 ± 0.12, 22 ± 0.07, 20 ± 0.16, and 17 ± 0.3 against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 8114), and Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC 19615), respectively. However, no zone of inhibition was obtained when tested against Proteus vulgaris (MTCC 1771). Furthermore, the obtained MIC values for Staphylococcus aureus were 0.91, 0.61, and 1.15 mg/mL; for Escherichia coli, 0.79, 0.36, and 1.02 mg/mL; for Bacillus subtilis 0.42, 0.27, and 0.474 mg/mL; and for Streptococcus pyogenes, 7.67, 3.86, and 8.5 mg/mL of pure RSALE, R-AuNPs, and Amoxicillin (control), respectively, incorporating that R-AuNPs have been shown to have a 1.4-fold, 2.1-fold, 1.5-fold, and 1.9-fold enhanced antibacterial activity in contrast to pure RSALE tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Proteus vulgaris, respectively. Additionally, an enhanced antioxidant potential was detected in R-AuNPs compared to RSALE evaluated by the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picryl Hydrazyl Radical Scavenging (DPPH) Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The determined IC 50 values of RSALE and R-AuNPs were 0.131 ± 0.05 and 0.184 ± 0.02 mg/mL, and 0.110 ± 0.1 and 0.106 ± 0.24 mg/mL via the FRAP and DPPH assays, respectively. In addition, the anti-cancer activity against the human cervical cancer (Hela) cell line was evaluated, and the MTT assay results revealed that R-AuNPs (IC50 88.3 µg/mL) had an enhanced anti-cancer potential in contrast to RSALE (171.5 µg/mL). Subsequently, the findings of this study indicated that R. serpentina leaves and their nanoformulation can be used as a potent source for the treatment of the above-mentioned complications and can be used as a possible agent for novel target-based therapies for the management of different ailments.

Lycopene Reduces Cholesterol Absorption and Prevents Atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- Mice by Downregulating HNF-1α and NPC1L1 Expression

Our previous study showed that lycopene reduced the absorption of cholesterol in Caco-2 cells through inhibiting Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) expression. Herein, we aimed to explore whether lycopene supplementation can decrease cholesterol absorption in the intestine and prevent atherosclerosis progression in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE^-/-) mice. Male ApoE^-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet with or without lycopene for 19 weeks. Supplementation of lycopene markedly lowered serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Additionally, serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were increased after lycopene administration. Lycopene also downregulated the expression of NPC1L1 and hepatocyte nuclear factor-1α (HNF-1α) in the small intestine. Furthermore, the Oil Red O staining of the aorta and aortic sinus showed that lycopene supplementation remarkably reduced atherosclerotic lesions. These results indicated that lycopene inhibited intestinal cholesterol absorption and protected against HFD-induced atherosclerosis through inhibiting HNF-1α and NPC1L1 expression. Lycopene exhibits a potential antiatherosclerotic effect through suppressing intestinal cholesterol absorption.

Silk Cocoon-Derived Protein Bioinspired Gold Nanoparticles as a Formidable Anticancer Agent

We synthesized bioinspired sericin encapsulated gold nanoparticles (SGNPs) using HAuCl4 as the starting material in a bottom-up approach. Further, two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) conformational changes (folding and unfolding) in sericin were studied using circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopy, respectively, during and after the synthesis of particles. Finally, the synthesized SGNPs were characterized using several physical techniques to ensure their correct synthesis and study the size, stability, and charge over the surface of particles. At the beginning of the reaction, when gold was in the ionic form (Au+3), sericin exhibited maximum electrostatic interaction and underwent unfolding. Au+3 reduced to Au during the reaction, and sericin regained its 3D confirmation due to a decrease in its native electrostatic interactions. However, CD revealed the same patterns of unfolding and folding; a decrease in α helix and an increase inβ3 pleated sheets were noticed. Although the 3D structure of sericin was restored after the synthesis of SGNPs, it was substantially altered. In addition, certain changes in the 2D structure were observed; however, these did not alter the activity of sericin. Furthermore, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed these findings. The SGNPs were found to be effective against lung cancer (A549 cells), with an IC50 of 145.49 βM, without exerting any toxic effects on normal cells (NRK cells). The effectiveness of SGNPs was examined by MTT cytotoxicity and nuclear fragmentation assays. Furthermore, we assessed their ability to produce excessive ROS and release Cyt-c from the mitochondria for caspase-3-mediated apoptosis.

Methylglyoxal mediated glycation leads to neo-epitopes generation in fibrinogen: Role in the induction of adaptive immune response

In diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia mediated non-enzymatic glycosylation of proteins results in the pathogenesis of diabetes-associated secondary complications via the generation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The focus of this study is to reveal the immunological aspects of methylglyoxal (MG) mediated glycation of fibrinogen protein. The induced immunogenicity of modified fibrinogen is analyzed by direct binding and inhibition ELISA. Direct binding ELISA confirmed that MG glycated fibrinogen (MG-Fib) is highly immunogenic and induces a high titer of antibodies in comparison to its native analog. Cross-reactivity and antigen-binding specificity of induced antibodies were confirmed by inhibition ELISA. The enhanced affinity of immunoglobulin G (IgG) from immunized rabbits' sera and MG glycated fibrinogen is probably the aftermath of neo-epitopes generation in the native structure of protein upon modification. Thus, we deduce that under the glycative stress, MG-mediated structural alterations in fibrinogen could induce the generation of antibodies which might serve as a potential biomarker in diabetes mellitus and its associated secondary disorders.

Ezetimibe attenuates experimental diabetes and renal pathologies via targeting the advanced glycation, oxidative stress and AGE-RAGE signalling in rats

The current in-vivo study was premeditated to uncover the protective role of ezetimibe (EZ) against advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs)-related pathologies in experimental diabetes. Our results showed that EZ markedly improved the altered biochemical markers of diabetes mellitus (DM) (FBG, HbA1c, insulin, microalbumin, and creatinine) and cardiovascular disease (in-vivo lipid/lipoprotein level and hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity) along with diminished plasma carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) and renal fluorescent AGEs level. Gene expression study revealed that EZ significantly down-regulated the renal AGEs-receptor (RAGE), nuclear factor-κB (NFκB-2), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1), and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) mRNA expression, however, the neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) mRNA expression was up-regulated. In addition, EZ also maintained the redox status via decreasing the lipid peroxidation and protein-bound carbonyl content (CC) and increasing the activity of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-associated-paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) and renal antioxidant enzymes as well as also protected renal histopathological features. We conclude that EZ exhibits antidiabetic and reno-protective properties in diabetic rats.

Diallyl disulfide improves lipid metabolism by inhibiting PCSK9 expression and increasing LDL uptake via PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 pathway in HepG2 cells

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a volatile sulfide extracted from garlic, has been suggested as a chemical of anti-atherosclerotic drugs, while its molecular mechanism for this benefit has not fully been understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of DADS on lipid metabolism and its potential mechanisms in HepG2 cells induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS).

METHODS AND RESULTS

HepG2 cells were treated with LPS with or without different concentrations of DADS (0, 20, 40, 80, 160 μg/ml) for 24 h. The cell activity was detected by CCK8, and Dil-LDL uptake assay was used to examine the LDL uptake. Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression of LDLR, PCSK9 SREBP2 and HMGCR. In addition, we examined the effect of the combination of DADS with atorvastatin on PCSK9 expression. The results showed that LPS significantly increased PCSK9 and SREBP2 expressions in a dose-dependent manner in HepG2 cells. DADS attenuated PCSK9, SREBP2 and HMGCR expressions and up-regulated the expression of LDLR. Moreover, DADS reversed the expressions of PCSK9, SREBP2, HMGCR and LDLR induced by LPS and DADS could promote the LDL uptake in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, DADS decreased the expression of PCSK9 by activating the PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 signal pathway. Notably, DADS could reduce PCSK9 expression induced by atorvastatin in HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

DADS could significantly attenuated PCSK9 expression in a dose-dependent manner induced by LPS and increased the LDLR expression in HepG2 cells, which was associated with the activation of PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 signaling pathway.

Lycopene as a Natural Antioxidant Used to Prevent Human Health Disorders

Lycopene, belonging to the carotenoids, is a tetraterpene compound abundantly found in tomato and tomato-based products. It is fundamentally recognized as a potent antioxidant and a non-pro-vitamin A carotenoid. Lycopene has been found to be efficient in ameliorating cancer insurgences, diabetes mellitus, cardiac complications, oxidative stress-mediated malfunctions, inflammatory events, skin and bone diseases, hepatic, neural and reproductive disorders. This review summarizes information regarding its sources and uses amongst different societies, its biochemistry aspects, and the potential utilization of lycopene and possible mechanisms involved in alleviating the abovementioned disorders. Furthermore, future directions with the possible use of this nutraceutical against lifestyle-related disorders are emphasized. Its protective effects against recommended doses of toxic agents and toxicity and safety are also discussed.

Naturally Occurring PCSK9 Inhibitors

Genetic, epidemiological and pharmacological data have led to the conclusion that antagonizing or inhibiting Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) reduces cardiovascular events. This clinical outcome is mainly related to the pivotal role of PCSK9 in controlling low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. The absence of oral and affordable anti-PCSK9 medications has limited the beneficial effects of this new therapeutic option. A possible breakthrough in this field may come from the discovery of new naturally occurring PCSK9 inhibitors as a starting point for the development of oral, small molecules, to be used in combination with statins in order to increase the percentage of patients reaching their LDL-cholesterol target levels. In the present review, we have summarized the current knowledge on natural compounds or extracts that have shown an inhibitory effect on PCSK9, either in experimental or clinical settings. When available, the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles of the listed compounds are described.

Protective effects of lycopene in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases: An update on epidemiological and mechanistic perspectives

Recent mechanistic and epidemiological studies have provided insights into health benefits of dietary lycopene to decrease the risk and complications associated with several chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. These chronic diseases are primarily associated with oxidative stress-induced systemic and low-grade chronic inflammation. Owing to its potent antioxidant properties, lycopene can potentially alleviate enhanced levels of proinflammatory mediators (e.g., proinflammatory cytokines IL-8, -6, and -1, and oxidized phospholipids) and prevent NF-κB activation by modulating oxidative stress. Moreover, lycopene serves as a precursor for various oxidative cleavage products and metabolites including Apo-8'-, apo-10'-, and apo-12'-lycopenals that can interact with multiple transcription factors (e.g., Nrf2, RARs, RXRs, and PPARs) to overexpress antioxidant and cytoprotective Phase II enzymes and other growth-stimulating proteins (e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) for enhanced neuroprotection. These events altogether can protect the body from chronic inflammatory disorders. In the present review, the latest mechanistic development from cell and animal models and results of case-control, cohort, and randomized trials are discussed to support the protective part of lycopene in cancer, CVD, and neurodegenerative disorders. This review focuses on cellular and molecular events involved in protective effects of lycopene. Although molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in health-promoting activities of lycopene have been reported, no detailed mechanistic studies have been published. Hence, future studies should be conducted to elucidate the mechanistic role(s) of lycopene-derived oxidation products in modulating cellular signaling.

Are anti-inflammatory agents and nutraceuticals - novel inhibitors of PCSK9?

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a protease which increases the lysosomal degradation of low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) resulting in elevated serum LDL-cholesterol levels. Elevated LDL-cholesterol is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antibodies to PCSK9 decrease LDL-cholesterol. Recent studies have suggested a direct relationship between PCSK9 and inflammation and the potential inhibitory effects of anti-inflammatory agents against this enzyme. Nutraceuticals are natural compounds, which have numerous anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects. In this review we focus on anti-inflammatory substances and nutraceuticals, which are beneficial in treatment of dyslipidemia. We also reviewed the recent findings concerning the role of PCSK9 as the main target for molecular mechanisms of these substances.

Ginkgolide B Mediated Alleviation of Inflammatory Cascades and Altered Lipid Metabolism in HUVECs via Targeting PCSK-9 Expression and Functionality

The potential of oxidized-LDL (Ox-LDL) to elicit inflammatory responses in macrophages leading to the atherosclerosis (AS) progression is well known. Since proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin-9 (PCSK-9), the posttranslational regulator of LDL-receptor, is associated with elevated LDL in the circulation, the present report was aimed to uncover the ameliorative effects of Ginkgolide B, a terpenic lactone from Ginkgo biloba, against Ox-LDL-induced alterations in cholesterol metabolism in HUVECs. Consequently, our results demonstrated that incubation with Ox-LDL significantly upregulated the PCSK-9 expression in HUVECs, which was significantly downregulated, both at mRNA and protein level, after Ginkgolide B treatment via subsequent suppression of sterol element binding protein (SREBP-2) expression. Moreover, Ginkgolide B-mediated inhibition of PCSK-9 activity was also validated by in silico methods which revealed that it interferes the PSCK-9 interaction with LDL-receptor (LDL-R). Interestingly, Ox-LDL-induced LDL-R expression was further enhanced by Ginkgolide B treatment in HUVECs. Moreover, Ginkgolide B treatment lead to downregulation of lectin-like Ox-LDL receptor (LOX-1) and NADPH oxidase (NOX-4) expression which was upregulated in Ox-LDL-treated HUVECs, along with the attenuation of mitochondrial ROS generation. Furthermore, Ginkgolide B significantly inhibited the augmented expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in Ox-LDL-activated HUVECs. Ginkgolide B also significantly ameliorated the inflammatory response in Ox-LDL-activated HUVECs by suppressing the expression of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL-1, CXCL-2, and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1), at mRNA and protein level. Our in vitro and in silico study established that Ginkgolide B alleviated the Ox-LDL-induced inflammatory cascades and altered lipid metabolism in HUVECs by suppressing the PCSK-9 and, thus, could be established as a treasured alternative therapeutic candidate in the atherosclerosis management.

Lycopene protects against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy by attenuating oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is considered an important pathogenic process of cardiac hypertrophy. Lycopene is a kind of carotenoid antioxidant that protects the cardiovascular system, so we hypothesized that lycopene might inhibit cardiac hypertrophy by attenuating oxidative stress. Phenylephrine and pressure overload were used to set up the hypertrophic models in vitro and in vivo respectively. Our data revealed that treatment with lycopene can significantly block pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy in in vitro and in vivo studies. Further studies demonstrated that lycopene can reverse the increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation during the process of hypertrophy and can retard the activation of ROS-dependent pro-hypertrophic MAPK and Akt signaling pathways. In addition, protective effects of lycopene on the permeability transition pore opening in neonatal cardiomyocytes were observed. Moreover, we demonstrated that lycopene restored impaired antioxidant response element (ARE) activity and activated ARE-driven expression of antioxidant genes. Consequently, our findings indicated that lycopene inhibited cardiac hypertrophy by suppressing ROS-dependent mechanisms.

Glycation and HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors: Implication in Diabetes and Associated Complications

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) acts as an absolute mediator of cardiovascular risk, prompting the prolonged occurrence, size and intricacy of atherosclerotic plaques via enhanced Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs) formation. Moreover, hyperglycemia is associated with enhanced glyco-oxidized and oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) possessing greater atherogenicity and decreased the ability to regulate HMG-CoA reductase (HMG-R). Although aminoguanidine (AG) prevents the AGE-induced protein cross-linking due to its anti-glycation potential, it exerts several unusual pharmaco-toxicological effects thus restraining its desirable therapeutic effects. HMG-R inhibitors/ statins exhibit a variety of beneficial impacts in addition to the cholesterol-lowering effects.

OBJECTIVE

Inhibition of AGEs interaction with receptor for AGEs (RAGE) and glyco-oxidized-LDL by HMG-R inhibitors could decrease LDL uptake by LDL-receptor (LDL-R), regulate cholesterol synthesis via HMG-R, decrease oxidative and inflammatory stress to improve the diabetes-associated complications.

CONCLUSION

Current article appraises the pathological AGE-RAGE concerns in diabetes and its associated complications, mainly focusing on the phenomenon of both circulatory AGEs and those accumulating in tissues in diabetic nephropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic retinopathy, discussing the potential protective role of HMG-R inhibitors against diabetic complications.

Ginkgolide B ameliorates oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced endothelial dysfunction via modulating Lectin-like ox-LDL-receptor-1 and NADPH oxidase 4 expression and inflammatory cascades

The current study was undertaken to delineate the protective effect of Ginkgolide B, a phyto-constituent from Ginkgo biloba, on oxidized (ox)-LDL-induced endothelial dysfunction via targeting Lectin-like ox-LDL-receptor-1 (LOX-1), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX-4), and other inflammatory proteins. Our results have shown that Ginkgolide B downregulated the expression of LOX-1 in ox-LDL-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and RAW246.7 murine macrophages which ultimately resulted in decreased cholesterol deposits in HUVECs and RAW264.7. Moreover, Ginkgolide B suppressed the enhanced NOX4 expression, which was associated with attenuation of ROS generation in ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs and RAW264.7 cells. Ginkgolide B also ameliorated the endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting the augmented expression of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in ox-LDL-activated HUVECs. Furthermore, the enhanced expression of many inflammatory cytokines in ox-LDL-induced RAW264.7 macrophages, both at transcription and protein level, was significantly down-regulated after Ginkgolide B treatment. Ginkgolide B also illustrated atheroprotective property via suppressing the augmented expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 in ox-LDL-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. In summary, our study has established that Ginkgolide B ameliorates endothelial dysfunction via targeting LOX-1, NOX-4, MCP-1, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 along with the markers associated with inflammatory cascades and thus could be promoted as a valuable therapeutic agent in prevention and management of atherosclerosis.