Caffeic acid and ellagic acid ameliorate adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats via targeting inflammatory signals, chitinase-3-like protein-1 and angiogenesis

Artificial aging conditions for Artemisia argyi leaves based on quality-inflammation-quality marker transformation

BACKGROUND

Appropriate conditions for storage of Artemisia argyi leaves reduce irritation during treatment and increase the active ingredient content. Naturally aged A. argyi leaves (≥1 year) are optimal for moxibustion; however, this process is time-consuming and costly. A comprehensive understanding of the conditions for artificial aging of A. argyi leaves and the mechanism of quality-marker conversion are required to guarantee A. argyi quality and moxibustion efficacy.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the optimal conditions for artificial aging of A. argyi leaves and clarify the mechanism of quality-marker conversion.

METHOD

Gas chromatography (GC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), colorimeter (CD), and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) were used to determine the chemical composition of A. argyi leaves before and after artificial and natural (1 year) aging and to determine the optimal artificial aging conditions. The effects of both artificially and naturally aged A. argyi leaves were then evaluated in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis (UC). The main chemical components of aged A. argyi leaves were then analyzed to determine quality-markers and the transformation mechanism.

RESULTS

Comprehensive analysis of volatile and non-volatile components, color values, and characteristic near-infrared spectra revealed that the quality of artificially aged A. argyi leaves was similar to that of naturally aged A. argyi leaves. In the mouse model, artificially and naturally aged A. argyi leaves not only improved the symptoms of UC with the same therapeutic effects, but also safeguarded the barrier of the colonic mucosa and prevented the release of colitis-related substances. In addition, the content of caffeic acid converted from L-phenylalanine in A. argyi leaves increased during the aging process.

CONCLUSION

Conditions for artificial aging of A. argyi leaves were identified for the first time, and the equivalent efficacy of artificially aged A. argyi leaves and naturally aged A. argyi leaves for improving UC was confirmed. This method for artificial aging of A. argyi leaves not only reduces the time and cost associated with this process, but also provides technical support to ensure the quality and stability of artificially aged A. argyi leaves. In addition, caffeic acid was identified as a potential quality-marker for establishing standards and specifications for aging A. argyi leaves for the first time, and its possible transformation mechanism was preliminarily elucidated.

Inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress and genetic disturbance in rheumatoid arthritis rats supported by alfalfa seeds metabolomic constituents via blocking interleukin-1receptor

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by aggressive cartilage and bone erosion. This work aimed to evaluate the metabolomic profile of Medicago sativa L. (MS) (alfalfa) seeds and explore its therapeutic impact against RA in rats. Arthritis was induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) and its severity was assessed by the arthritis index. Treatment with MS seeds butanol fraction and interlukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) were evaluated through measuring interlukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) type 1 gene expression, interlukin-1 beta (IL-1β), oxidative stress markers, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), caspase-3 (Cas-3), intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), DNA fragmentation, and chromosomal damage. Total phenolics/ flavonoids content in the ethyl acetate, butanol fraction and crude extract of MS seeds were estimated. The major identified compounds were Quercetin, Trans-taxifolin, Gallic acid, 7,4'-Dihydroxyflavone, Cinnamic acid, Kudzusaponin SA4, Isorhamnetin 3-O-beta-D-2'',3'',4''-triacetylglucopyranoside, Apigenin, 5,7,4'-Trihydroxy-3'-methoxyflavone, Desmethylxanthohumol, Pantothenic acid, Soyasapogenol E, Malvidin, Helilandin B, Stigmasterol, and Wairol. Treatment with MS seeds butanol fraction and IL-1RA enhanced all the biochemical parameters and the histopathological features of the ankle joint. In conclusion, Trans-taxifolin was isolated for the first time from the genus Medicago. MS butanol fraction seeds extract and IL-1 RA were considered as anti-rheumatic agents.

Protective Effects of a Mixed Medicinal Herb Extract (NUC1) on Collagenase-Induced Osteoarthritis in Rabbits

NUC1 (Nutraceutical compound 1) is an ethanol extract composed of a formulation based on medicinal herbs traditionally used for the treatment of arthritis in Korea and China. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of NUC1 on osteoarthritis (OA). The protective effect of NUC1 on OA was tested in a rabbit model of collagenase-induced arthritis (CIA) for 4 weeks. Results were compared among four groups (n = 9 per group): the normal group (untreated), the CIA group (vehicle control), the NUC1 group (CIA rabbits treated with 200 mg/kg NUC1), and the JOINS group (positive control, CIA rabbits treated with 200 mg/kg JOINS tablet). NUC1 significantly inhibited NO production (p < 0.05 at 125 μg/ml, p < 0.01 at 250 μg/ml, and p < 0.001 at 500 μg/ml) and iNOS expression in macrophages, in a concentration-dependent manner. NUC1 also inhibited the release and protein expression of MMP-1, 3, and 13, in TNF-α-induced chondrosarcoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In vivo, the MMP-1 and MMP-3 levels in synovial fluids were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in NUC1 group (77.50 ± 20.56 and 22.50 ± 7.39 pg/ml, respectively) than in the CIA group (148.33 ± 68.58 and 77.50 ± 20.46 pg/ml, respectively). Also, in histopathological, NUC1 ameliorated articular cartilage damage in OA by increasing the abundance of chondrocytes and proteoglycan in the articular cartilage. Thus, NUC1 showed promise as a potential therapeutic agent, and it can be generalized to a broader study population in different OA animal models.

The mechanism by which Naru 3 pill protects against intervertebral disc cartilage endplate degeneration based on network pharmacology and experimental verification

CONTEXT

Naru 3 pill is a traditional Mongolian medicine for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), but the mechanism is not yet clear.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the mechanism of Naru 3 pill in the treatment of IDD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Active ingredients and related targets of Naru 3 pill, as well as IDD-related genes, were collected from public databases. The analysis was performed by protein‒protein interaction network analysis, gene ontology and Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, the network pharmacology results were validated by in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Network analysis showed that sesamin, piperine and ellagic acid were potential key components and CASP3, BAX and BCL2 were key targets. KEGG analysis indicated the apoptotic pathway as a potential pathway. Molecular docking showed that sesamin interacted better with the targets than the other components. The results of molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the three systems BAX-sesamin, BCL2-sesamin and CASP3-sesamin were stable and reasonable during the simulation. In vitro experiments showed that sesamin had the least effect on cell growth and the most pronounced proliferation-promoting effect, and so sesamin was considered the key component. The experiments confirmed that sesamin had antiapoptotic effects and reversed the expression of CASP3, BAX and BCL2 in degeneration models, which was consistent with the network pharmacology results. Furthermore, sesamin alleviated extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration and promoted cell proliferation in the IDD model.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested that Naru 3 pill might exert its therapeutic and antiapoptotic effects on IDD by delaying ECM degradation and promoting cell proliferation, which provides a new strategy for the treatment of IDD.

Stimulation of Autophagy by Dapagliflozin Mitigates Cadmium-Induced Testicular Dysfunction in Rats: The Role of AMPK/mTOR and SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 Pathways

Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental pollutant that triggers testicular dysfunction. Dapagliflozin is a selective sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor with notable antioxidant and anti-apoptotic features. It has shown marked cardio-, reno-, hepato-, and neuroprotective effects. Yet, its effect on Cd-evoked testicular impairment has not been examined. Hence, the goal of the current study was to investigate the potential positive effect of dapagliflozin against Cd-induced testicular dysfunction in rats, with an emphasis on autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative insult. Dapagliflozin (1 mg/kg/day) was given by oral gavage, and testicular dysfunction, impaired spermatogenesis, and biomolecular events were studied via immunohistochemistry, histopathology, and ELISA. The current findings demonstrated that dapagliflozin improved relative testicular weight, serum testosterone, and sperm count/motility and reduced sperm abnormalities, signifying mitigation of testicular impairment and spermatogenesis disruption. Moreover, dapagliflozin attenuated Cd-induced histological abnormalities and preserved testicular structure. The testicular function recovery was prompted by stimulating the cytoprotective SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis, lowering the testicular oxidative changes, and augmenting cellular antioxidants. As regards apoptosis, dapagliflozin counteracted the apoptotic machinery by downregulating the pro-apoptotic signals together with Bcl-2 upregulation. Meanwhile, dapagliflozin reactivated the impaired autophagy, as seen by a lowered accumulation of SQSTM-1/p62 and Beclin 1 upregulation. In the same context, the testicular AMPK/mTOR pathway was stimulated as evidenced by the increased p-AMPK (Ser487)/total AMPK ratio alongside the lowered p-mTOR (Ser2448)/total mTOR ratio. Together, the favorable mitigation of Cd-induced testicular impairment/disrupted spermatogenesis was driven by the antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and pro-autophagic actions of dapagliflozin. Thus, it could serve as a tool for the management of Cd-evoked testicular dysfunction.

Phytochemical Compounds Involved in the Bone Regeneration Process and Their Innovative Administration: A Systematic Review

Bone metabolism is a complex process which is influenced by the activity of bone cells (e.g., osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts); the effect of some specific biomarkers (e.g., parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, osteopontin, osteoprotegerin, osterix, RANKL, Runx2); and the characteristic signaling pathways (e.g., RANKL/RANK, Wnt/β, Notch, BMP, SMAD). Some phytochemical compounds-such as flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, anthocyanins, terpenoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids and others-presented a beneficial and stimulating effect in the bone regeneration process due to the pro-estrogenic activity, the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory effect and modulation of bone signaling pathways. Lately, nanomedicine has emerged as an innovative concept for new treatments in bone-related pathologies envisaged through the incorporation of medicinal substances in nanometric systems for oral or local administration, as well as in nanostructured scaffolds with huge potential in bone tissue engineering.

"Cerastes snake venom as a promising approach in the management of complete Freund's adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats: Involvement of RANKL and JAK/STAT pathway"

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cerastes cerastes is a snake found mainly in the Egyptian desert. Many studies were performed to explain the possible snake venom's pharmacological therapeutic effect in different autoimmune diseases. One of the most common auto-immune diseases is rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by a high release of pro-inflammatory and immune-modulatory cytokines. The reduction of these markers can indicate how effective is the administered drug.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to explore the potential pharmacological effects of cerastes venom in experimentally-induced RA in rats using Complete Freund's adjuvant - via different mechanisms - by assessing various tissue and serum parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rats were assigned to negative control group, cerastes control group, positive control group, dexamethasone-treated group, infliximab-treated group, and cerastes-treated group. The study ended on the 20^th day when serum and tissue samples were prepared for further evaluation of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, rheumatoid factor, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells as well as relative expression of phosphorylated Janus-kinase, phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and receptor activator of nuclear factor Kappa-B ligand. In addition, a histopathological examination of different groups' knees joints, and spleen was done.

RESULTS

The results showed a significant improvement of arthritis induced in the cerastes-treated group in contrast to the positive control group in all assessed parameters. In addition, significant improvement of arthritis was observed in the histopathological examination of different groups' knees joints, and spleen.

CONCLUSION

These results revealed that cerastes snake venom has potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects and can be used in the management of arthritis.

Phytochemicals in the treatment of inflammation-associated diseases: the journey from preclinical trials to clinical practice

Advances in biomedical research have demonstrated that inflammation and its related diseases are the greatest threat to public health. Inflammatory action is the pathological response of the body towards the external stimuli such as infections, environmental factors, and autoimmune conditions to reduce tissue damage and improve patient comfort. However, when detrimental signal-transduction pathways are activated and inflammatory mediators are released over an extended period of time, the inflammatory process continues and a mild but persistent pro-inflammatory state may develop. Numerous degenerative disorders and chronic health issues including arthritis, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, among others, are associated with the emergence of a low-grade inflammatory state. Though, anti-inflammatory steroidal, as well as non-steroidal drugs, are extensively used against different inflammatory conditions, they show undesirable side effects upon long-term exposure, at times, leading to life-threatening consequences. Thus, drugs targeting chronic inflammation need to be developed to achieve better therapeutic management without or with a fewer side effects. Plants have been well known for their medicinal use for thousands of years due to their pharmacologically active phytochemicals belonging to diverse chemical classes with a number of these demonstrating potent anti-inflammatory activity. Some typical examples include colchicine (alkaloid), escin (triterpenoid saponin), capsaicin (methoxy phenol), bicyclol (lignan), borneol (monoterpene), and quercetin (flavonoid). These phytochemicals often act via regulating molecular mechanisms that synergize the anti-inflammatory pathways such as increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines or interfere with the inflammatory pathways such as to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other modulators to improve the underlying pathological condition. This review describes the anti-inflammatory properties of a number of biologically active compounds derived from medicinal plants, and their mechanisms of pharmacological intervention to alleviate inflammation-associated diseases. The emphasis is given to information on anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that have been evaluated at the preclinical and clinical levels. Recent trends and gaps in the development of phytochemical-based anti-inflammatory drugs have also been included.

Olive Oil as a Transport Medium for Bioactive Molecules of Plants?-An In Situ Study

(1) Caries and erosions still remain a challenge for preventive dentistry. Certain plant extracts have shown beneficial effects in preventive dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial, anti-adherent and erosion-protective properties of ellagic acid (EA) as a polyphenolic agent. The combination with olive oil was investigated additionally to verify a possible improved bioactive effect of EA. (2) An in situ study was carried out with six subjects. Individual splints were prepared with bovine enamel specimens. The splints were worn for 1 min (pellicle formation time). Thereafter, 10 min rinses were performed with EA in water/in oil. Bacterial adherence was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy (DAPI, ConA, BacLight) after an 8 h oral exposition time. Additionally, the splints were worn for 30 min to quantify demineralization processes. The ultrastructure of the pellicle was investigated after an oral exposure time of 2 h under a transmission electron microscope. Statistical analysis was performed by Kruskal-Wallis tests, Mann-Whitney U tests and Bonferroni-Holm correction. (3) Rinsing with EA led to a significant reduction of adherent vital and dead bacteria. The combination with olive oil did not improve these outcomes. The assessment of glucan structures after rinsing with EA in water showed significant effects. Significant differences were observed for both rinses in calcium release at pH 3.0. After rinsing with EA in oil, significantly less calcium was released compared to rinsing with EA in water (pH = 3.0). (4) Olive oil is not suitable as a transport medium for lipophilic polyphenols. EA has anti-adherent and antibacterial properties in situ. EA also shows erosion-protective effects, which can be enhanced in combination with olive oil depending on the pH value. Ellagic acid has a neutral pH and could be an opportunity in the treatment of specific patient groups (xerostomia or mucositis).

Targeting SIRT1/FoxO3a/Nrf2 and PI3K/AKT Pathways with Rebamipide Attenuates Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats

Rebamipide is a quinolone derivative that has been commonly used for the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers. However, the molecular mechanisms of rebamipide against acetic acid-evoked colitis have not been adequately examined. Hence, the current study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of rebamipide in a rat model of acetic acid-evoked ulcerative colitis and the linked mechanisms pertaining to SIRT1/FoxO3a/Nrf2 and PI3K/AKT pathways. Herein, colitis was induced by the intrarectal administration of 3% acetic acid solution in saline (v/v) while rebamipide was administered by oral gavage (100 mg/kg/day) for seven days before the colonic insult. The colonic injury was examined by macroscopical and microscopical examination. The current findings demonstrated that rebamipide significantly improved the colonic injury by lowering the colonic disease activity index and macroscopic mucosal injury score. Moreover, it mitigated the histopathological aberrations and microscopical damage score. The favorable outcomes of rebamipide were driven by combating inflammation evidenced by dampening the colonic expression of NF-κBp65 and the pro-inflammatory markers CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6. In the same context, rebamipide curtailed the colonic pro-inflammatory PI3K/AKT pathway as seen by downregulating the immunostaining of PI3K and p-AKT(Ser473) signals. In tandem, rebamipide combated the colonic pro-oxidant events and augmented the antioxidant milieu by significantly diminishing the colonic TBARS and replenishing GSH, SOD, GST, GPx, and CAT. In the same regard, rebamipide stimulated the colonic upstream SIRT1/FoxO3a/Nrf2 axis by upregulating the expression of SIRT1, FoxO3a, and Nrf2, alongside downregulating Keap-1 gene expression. These antioxidant actions were accompanied by upregulation of the protein expression of the cytoprotective signal PPAR-γ in the colons of rats. In conclusion, the present findings suggest that the promising ameliorative features of rebamipide against experimental colitis were driven by combating the colonic inflammatory and oxidative responses. In perspective, augmentation of colonic SIRT1/FoxO3a/Nrf2 and inhibition of PI3K/AKT pathways were engaged in the observed favorable outcomes.

Muscadine Grape (Vitis rotundifolia) and Wine Polyphenols Alleviated Arthritis and Restored the Gut Microbial Composition in Mice

This study aimed to investigate the effect of muscadine grape polyphenols (MGP) and muscadine wine polyphenols (MWP) on the onset and progression of arthritis in mice. Arthritis in male DBA/1J mice was induced by two intradermal injections of type II collagen. MGP or MWP (400 mg/kg) were orally gavaged to mice. MGP and MWP were found to delay the onset and reduce the severity and clinical symptoms of collagen induced arthritis (CIA) (p≤0.05). In addition, MGP and MWP significantly reduced the plasma concentration of TNF-α, IL-6, anti-collagen antibodies, and matrix metalloproteinase-3 in CIA mice. Based on nano CT and histological analysis, MGP and MWP reduced pannus formation, cartilage destruction, and bone erosion in CIA mice. Analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA revealed that arthritis in mice is associated with gut dysbiosis. MWP was more effective than MGP at alleviating such dysbiosis by shifting the microbiome composition towards the direction of healthy mice. Relative abundance of several genera of gut microbiome correlated with plasma inflammatory biomarkers and bone histology scores, suggesting they play a role in the development and progression of arthritis. This study suggests that muscadine grape or wine polyphenols can be used as a diet-based strategy to prevent and manage arthritis in humans.

Efficacy of Trevesia palmata (Roxb. ex Lindl.) Vis. Extract on MG 63 cell lines and arthritis-induced animal models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Despite widespread use of herbal remedies for treating arthritis and osteosarcoma, many plants are still not pharmacologically evaluated for their efficacy. Contrary to many non-steroidal, immunosuppressants, antibiotics, and antineoplastic drugs that have adverse effects, phytotherapeutic compounds have promising benefits with fewer complications. In this study the unexplored Northeastern India indigenous plant Trevesia palmata (Roxb. ex Lindl.) Vis. used in traditional medicine to cure bone fractures is chosen for studying anti-proliferative and anti-rheumatic properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study designed to explore the polyphenolic composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential of T. palmata leaf extracts. Further, the cellular activity was studied using MG 63 osteoblast cell lines and pharmacologically evaluated using Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritic rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vitro free radical scavenging activity, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities of extracts were analyzed using standardized methods. The polyphenolic profiling and apoptosis inducing ability of T. palmata ethyl acetate (TPEA) extract on MG 63 osteoblast cell lines were analyzed. The in vivo pharmacological studies were carried out with low dose 250 mg/kg and high dose of 500 mg/kg of T. palmata. The biochemical and haematological parameters and in vivo antioxidant activity were evaluated for the control and treated groups. Radiological and histological study were done to understand the impact and penetration of inflammatory arthritis from tissues to joint bones.

RESULTS

TPEA showed highest free radical scavenging activity (DPPH - 4.72 IC₅₀, ABTS - 242.33 ± 6.81 mM TE/g extract), anti-inflammatory (40.04% inhibition of RBC lysis) and anti-arthritic activity (32.4% inhibition of protein denaturation) with the presence of gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, rutin, quercetin and naringenin. The TPEA extract inhibited cell proliferation of MG 63 osteoblast cells and induced apoptosis by arresting cell cycle at different phases. After acute toxicity studies the doses 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg were fixed and showed better results in CFA-induced arthritic animals. Thus, the extract phytoconstituents may have immense potential against chronic inflammation, joint ailments, bone cancer and arthritis which serves as a phytomedicine contrary to synthetic medications.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential treatment of polyphenolic compounds in the T. palmata extract on osteosarcoma and arthritis was demonstrated from this study. Thus, cellular inflammatory infiltrates are significantly reduced in bone and joint tissues as well.

Ligusticum chuanxiong promotes the angiogenesis of preovulatory follicles (F1-F3) in late-phase laying hens

Ligusticum chuanxiong (CX) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is widely planted throughout the world. CX is one of the most important and commonly used drugs to enhance blood circulation. The preovulatory follicles in laying hens have a large number of blood arteries and meridians that feed the follicles' growth and maturation with nutrients, hormones, and cytokines. With the extension of laying time, preovulatory follicles angiogenesis decreased gradually. In this study, we studied the mechanism of CX on preovulatory follicles angiogenesis in late-phase laying hens. The results show that CX extract can increase the angiogenesis of preovulatory follicles (F1-F3) of late-phase laying hens. CX extract can promote vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) phosphorylation in preovulatory follicles theca layers, promote the proliferation, invasion and migration through PI3K/AKT and RAS/ERK signaling pathways in primary follicle microvascular endothelial-like cells (FMECs). In addition, CX extract can up-regulate the expression of hypoxia inducible factor α (HIF1α) in granulosa cells (GCs) and granulosa layers through PI3K/AKT and RAS/ERK signaling pathways, thereby promoting the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). In conclusion, the current study confirmed the promoting effect of CX extract on the preovulatory follicles angiogenesis, which sets the stage for the design of functional animal feed for late-phase laying hens.

Immunomodulatory Activity of Punicalagin, Punicalin, and Ellagic Acid Differs from the Effect of Pomegranate Peel Extract

BACKGROUND

Our recent study has shown that pomegranate peel extract (PEx) showed significant immunomodulatory activity, which might be caused by ellagitannins. The aim of this work was to test the hypothesis that ellagitannin components act synergistically in the modulation of cytokine production.

METHODS

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy donors were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin and treated with different concentrations of PEx or punicalagin (PG), punicalin (PN), and ellagic acid (EA), alone or with their combinations. Cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, and cytokine production were determined.

RESULTS

Non-cytotoxic concentrations of all compounds significantly inhibited cell proliferation. IC50 values (μg/mL) were: EA (7.56), PG (38.52), PEx (49.05), and PN (69.95). PEx and all ellagitannins inhibited the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8, dose-dependently, and their combinations acted synergistically. PEx and all ellagitannins inhibited Th1 and Th17 responses, whereas the lower concentrations of PEx stimulated the production of IL-10, a Treg cytokine, as did lower concentrations of EA. However, neither component of ellagitannins increased Th2 response, as was observed with PEx.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of PG, PN, and EA potentiated the anti-inflammatory response without any significant synergistic down-modulatory effect on T-cell cytokines. The increased production of IL-10 observed with PEx could be attributable to EA, but the examined ellagitannins are not associated with the stimulatory effect of PEx on Th2 response.

Topiramate Reprofiling for the Attenuation of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Impairment in Rats: Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome and AMPK/mTOR-Linked Autophagy

Topiramate, a promising drug classically used for the management of neurological disorders including epilepsy and migraine, has demonstrated marked anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic actions in murine models of cardiac post-infarction inflammation, wound healing, and gastric/intestinal injury. However, its potential impact on cadmium-induced testicular injury remains to be elucidated. Herein, the present study aimed to explore the effect of topiramate against cadmium-invoked testicular impairment with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms linked to inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy. Herein, administration of topiramate (50 mg/kg/day, by gavage) continued for 60 days and the testes were examined by histology, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical assays. The present data demonstrated that serum testosterone, sperm count/abnormalities, relative testicular weight, and histopathological aberrations were improved by topiramate administration to cadmium-intoxicated rats. The rescue of testicular dysfunction was driven by multi-pronged mechanisms including suppression of NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β cascade, which was evidenced by dampened caspase-1 activity, lowered IL-1β/IL-18 production, and decreased nuclear levels of activated NF-κBp65. Moreover, curbing testicular apoptosis was seen by lowered Bax expression, decreased caspase-3 activity, and upregulation of Bcl-2. In tandem, testicular autophagy was activated as seen by diminished p62 SQSTM1 accumulation alongside Beclin-1 upregulation. Autophagy activation was associated with AMPK/mTOR pathway stimulation demonstrated by decreased mTOR (Ser2448) phosphorylation and increased AMPK (Ser487) phosphorylation. In conclusion, combating inflammation/apoptosis and enhancing autophagic events by topiramate were engaged in ameliorating cadmium-induced testicular impairment.

Hydrolyzable Tannins in the Management of Th1, Th2 and Th17 Inflammatory-Related Diseases

Plants rich in hydrolyzable tannins were traditionally used all over the world for a variety of chronic inflammatory disorders, including arthritis, colitis, and dermatitis. However, the knowledge of their immunological targets is still limited though fundamental for their rational use in phytotherapy. The recent advances regarding the pathogenesis of inflammatory-based diseases represent an opportunity to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of plant-derived metabolites with immunomodulatory activity. This review collects recent articles regarding the role of hydrolyzable tannins and their gut metabolites in Th1, Th2, and Th17 inflammatory responses. In line with the traditional use, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (AD), and asthma were the most investigated diseases. A substantial body of in vivo studies suggests that, beside innate response, hydrolyzable tannins may reduce the levels of Th-derived cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-4, following oral administration. The mode of action is multitarget and may involve the impairment of inflammatory transcription factors (NF-κB, NFAT, STAT), enzymes (MAPKs, COX-2, iNOS), and ion channels. However, their potential impact on pathways with renewed interest for inflammation, such as JAK/STAT, or the modulation of the gut microbiota demands dedicate studies.

Integrated Experimental Approach, Phytochemistry, and Network Pharmacology to Explore the Potential Mechanisms of Cinnamomi Ramulus for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cinnamomi Ramulus (CR) has been extensively used as a remedy for inflammatory diseases in China. This study adopted an integrative approach of experimental research, phytochemistry, and network pharmacology to investigate its alleviative effects on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the underlying potential mechanisms. CR extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) and methotrexate (MTX) significantly ameliorated RA symptoms in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model. They also reduced paw volume, arthritis index, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-6, and IL-1β), and oxidative damage. Sixty-three compounds were systematically identified as the basic components of CR. Fifty-five common genes obtained from compounds and GEO databases were employed to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Among them, 20 hub genes were identified via the cytoHubba. Enrichment analysis of the common genes indicated that the TNF signaling pathway and IL-17 signaling pathway might be the potential key pathways. Moreover, molecular docking methods confirmed the high affinity between the top 10 bioactive components of CR and the top 10 targets. In addition, in vitro results showed that CR extract (0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mg/mL) inhibited inflammation and oxidative damage in MH7A cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In summary, this study adopted multiple approaches to elucidate the protective effect and potential mechanisms of CR on RA, indicating that CR might be a promising herbal candidate for further investigation of RA treatment.

Repositioning Linagliptin for the Mitigation of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Dysfunction in Rats: Targeting HMGB1/TLR4/NLRP3 Axis and Autophagy

Cadmium, a ubiquitous environmental toxicant, disrupts testicular function and fertility. The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor linagliptin has shown pronounced anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic features; however, its effects against cadmium-evoked testicular impairment have not been examined. Herein, the present study investigated targeting inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy by linagliptin for potential modulation of cadmium-induced testicular dysfunction in rats. After 60 days of cadmium chloride administration (5 mg/kg/day, by gavage), testes, epididymis, and blood were collected for analysis. The present findings revealed that linagliptin improved the histopathological lesions, including spermatogenesis impairment and germ cell loss. Moreover, it improved sperm count/motility and serum testosterone. The favorable effects of linagliptin were mediated by curbing testicular inflammation seen by dampening of HMGB1/TLR4 pathway and associated lowering of nuclear NF-κBp65. In tandem, linagliptin suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome/caspase 1 axis with consequent lowering of the pro-inflammatory IL-1β and IL-18. Jointly, linagliptin attenuated testicular apoptotic responses seen by Bax downregulation, Bcl-2 upregulation, and suppressed caspase 3 activity. With respect to autophagy, linagliptin enhanced the testicular autophagy flux seen by lowered accumulation of p62 SQSTM1 alongside upregulation of Beclin 1. The observed autophagy stimulation was associated with elevated AMPK (Ser487) phosphorylation and lowered mTOR (Ser2448) phosphorylation, indicating AMPK/mTOR pathway activation. In conclusion, inhibition of testicular HMGB1/TLR4/NLRP3 pro-inflammatory axis and apoptosis alongside stimulation of autophagy were implicated in the favorable actions of linagliptin against cadmium-triggered testicular impairment.

Indigenous Nigeria medicinal herbal remedies: A potential source for therapeutic against rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a debilitating disease associated with locomotion impairment, and conventional therapeutic drugs are not optimal for managing RA. There is an avalanche of medications used for the management of RA. Still, studies have shown that they are associated with severe side effects, including hepatotoxicity, retinopathy, and cardiotoxicity disorders of the central nervous system (CNS), skin, blood, and infections. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is currently gaining attention as a novel panacea for managing debilitating diseases, such as RA. Nigerian folk herbal remedies are replete with a plethora of curative medicine, albeit unvalidated scientifically but with seemingly miraculous provenance. Studies of the identification of bioactive compounds present in these botanicals using advanced spectral analytical techniques have enhanced our understanding of the role of Nigerian herbal remedies in the treatment and management of RA. Interestingly, experimental studies abound that the bioactive compounds present in the extracts of plant botanicals protected animals from the development of RA in different experimental models and reduced the toxicity associated with conventional therapeutics. Validated mechanisms of RA amelioration in human and animal models include suppression of the expression of NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, IL-23, chemokines, TGF-β, RANKL, RANK, iNOS, arginase, COX-2, VEGFA, VEGFR, NFATC1, and TRAP in the synoviocytes. Decreased ROS, NO, MDA, carbonyl groups, and PGE₂ in the synovial fluid increased the expression of PPARα/γ; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecules also improve RA etiology. In this mini-review, we discuss the global burden of RA, the novel role of plant-based botanicals as potential therapeutics against signaling pathways in RA. Also addressed is the possible repurposing/reprofiling of plant botanicals to increase their therapeutic index among RA patients that patronize traditional healers in Nigeria with a global projection.

Leurieus quinquestriatus scorpion venom ameliorates adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats: Modulating JAK/STAT/RANKL signal transduction pathway

Leurieus quinquestriatus (LQ) is a type of Egyptian scorpions. Prior studies have established the potential use of scorpion venoms in treating several autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the current study investigates the possible pharmacological effect of LQ venom in CFA-induced arthritis - through different mechanisms - by assessing different serum and tissue parameters. This study was divided into two phases: phase I was conducted to determine the lowest therapeutic dose of LQ scorpion venom, whereas phase II investigated the potential therapeutic effect of the chosen dose of LQ venom on induced arthritis through different mechanisms. The Wistar albino rats were divided equally and randomly into normal control group, LQ control group, arthritis control group, infliximab-treated group, and LQ-treated group. On day 20, blood and tissue samples were collected for further analysis of serum and tissue biomarkers as well as histopathological examination. The results revealed a potential therapeutic effect of LQ venom on arthritic-induced rats through a significant decrease in Rheumatoid Factor, Janus Kinase, Signal transducers and activators of transcription, Receptor activator of nuclear factor Kappa-B ligand, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Interleukin-6, Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells and Malondialdehyde by 57%, 66%, 64%, 62%, 75%, 59%, 38%, and 69%, respectively as well as a significant increase in reduced glutathione, and Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 by 102% and 360%, respectively. Histopathological examination of knee joint and spleen also revealed a substantial improvement, indicating the possible utilization of LQ venom in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Targeting inflammation and redox perturbations by lisinopril mitigates Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats: role of JAK-2/STAT-3/RANKL axis, MMPs, and VEGF

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disorders are major complications of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Hence, finding effective agents that can target RA progression and its cardiovascular consequences is demanding. The present work aimed to explore the potential of lisinopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, to mitigate adjuvant's-induced arthritis with emphasis on the pro-inflammatory signals, articular degradation cues, and angiogenesis alongside JAK-2/STAT-3 and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

METHODS

Lisinopril (10 mg/kg/day) was administered by oral gavage for 3 weeks and the target signals were examined by biochemical assays, ELISA, histopathology, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Lisinopril attenuated the progression of arthritis as proven by lowering paw edema, arthritic index, and gait scores alongside diminishing the immune-cell infiltration/aberrant histopathology in the dorsal pouch lining. These favorable actions were associated with curtailing the production of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-17) and the pro-inflammatory angiotensin II alongside upregulating the anti-inflammatory angiotensin-(1-7) in the hind paw of arthritic rats. At the molecular level, lisinopril inhibited the upstream JAK-2/STAT-3 pathway by downregulating the protein expression of p-JAK-2/total JAK-2 and p-STAT-3/total STAT-3 ratio and the nuclear levels of NF-κBp65. Meanwhile, lisinopril curbed the downstream cartilage degradation signals matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3 and MMP-9) and the bone erosion cue RANKL. Equally important, the protein expression of the angiogenesis signal VEGF was downregulated in the hind paw/dorsal lining. With respect to oxidative stress, lisinopril suppressed the paw lipid peroxides and boosted GSH and Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway.

CONCLUSION

Lisinopril attenuated adjuvant-induced arthritis via inhibition of inflammation, articular degradation cues, and angiogenesis.

Systematic Review: Targeted Molecular Imaging of Angiogenesis and Its Mediators in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Extensive angiogenesis is a characteristic feature in the synovial tissue of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from a very early stage of the disease onward and constitutes a crucial event for the development of the proliferative synovium. This process is markedly intensified in patients with prolonged disease duration, high disease activity, disease severity, and significant inflammatory cell infiltration. Angiogenesis is therefore an interesting target for the development of new therapeutic approaches as well as disease monitoring strategies in RA. To this end, nuclear imaging modalities represent valuable non-invasive tools that can selectively target molecular markers of angiogenesis and accurately and quantitatively track molecular changes in multiple joints simultaneously. This systematic review summarizes the imaging markers used for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and/or positron emission tomography (PET) approaches, targeting pathways and mediators involved in synovial neo-angiogenesis in RA.

Immunomodulatory Properties of Pomegranate Peel Extract in a Model of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Culture

Pomegranate peel extract (PoPEx) has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its effect on the adaptive immune system has not been sufficiently investigated. In this study, the treatment of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with PoPEx (range 6.25–400 µg/mL) resulted in cytotoxicity at concentrations of 100 µg/mL and higher, due to the induction of apoptosis and oxidative stress, whereas autophagy was reduced. At non-cytotoxic concentrations, the opposite effect on these processes was observed simultaneously with the inhibition of PHA-induced PBMC proliferation and a significant decrease in the expression of CD4. PoPEx differently modulated the expression of activation markers (CD69, CD25, ICOS) and PD1 (inhibitory marker), depending on the dose and T-cell subsets. PoPEx (starting from 12.5 µg/mL) suppressed the production of Th1 (IFN-γ), Th17 (IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22), Th9 (IL-9), and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in culture supernatants. Lower concentrations upregulated Th2 (IL-5 and IL-13) and Treg (IL-10) responses as well as CD4+CD25hiFoxp3+ cell frequency. Higher concentrations of PoPEx increased the frequency of IL-10- and TGF-β-producing T-cells (much higher in the CD4+ subset). In conclusion, our study suggested for the first time complex immunoregulatory effects of PoPEx on T cells, which could assist in the suppression of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Dietary polyphenols for management of rheumatoid arthritis: Pharmacotherapy and novel delivery systems

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, complex, systemic autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation, swelling, and pain. It affects pulmonary and ocular physiology, gastrointestinal disturbance, skeletal disorders, and renal malfunctioning. Although conventional and biological drugs available to treat RA are potent and effective, they lead to life-threatening side effects and patient discomfort. Hence, alternative therapies are explored for their treatment which is safe, effective, and economical. Herbal drugs are widely used as an alternative therapy and some medicinal plants, especially dietary polyphenols proved their efficacy in treating RA. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants possessing several pharmacological actions. They exert anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-rheumatoid activity by modulating tumor necrosis factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, and c-Jun N-terminal kinases. Thus, polyphenols could be a promising option for the management of RA. Unfortunately, polyphenols suffer from poor bioavailability due to their physicochemical properties and incorporation into novel delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, micelles improved their oral bioavailability. This review article summarizes dietary polyphenols, their pharmacological actions and novel delivery systems for the treatment of RA. Nevertheless, the commercial translation of polyphenols could be only possible after establishing their safety profile and successful clinical trials.

Targeting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy by galangin mitigates cadmium-induced renal damage: Role of SIRT1/Nrf2 and AMPK/mTOR pathways

BACKGROUND

Galangin, a bioactive flavonoid with remarkable antioxidant and anti-apoptotic actions, has demonstrated promising amelioration of experimental hepatotoxicity, cardiomyopathy, and colitis. Yet, its impact on cadmium-induced renal injury has not been explored. Herein, we aimed at exploring the potential of galangin to attenuate cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, focusing on oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy.

METHODOLOGY

Cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg/day) and galangin (15 mg/kg/day) were received by oral gavage and the kidney tissues were inspected using ELISA, biochemical measurements, histology, and immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

Galangin attenuated cadmium-induced renal damage by diminishing the histopathological alterations alongside KIM-1, BUN, and creatinine. At the molecular level, galangin attenuated the oxidative insult by significantly lowering the lipid peroxides and NOX-1 and augmenting GSH and GPx antioxidants. It also activated the cytoprotective SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway by significantly upregulating the protein expression of SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1. Consistently, galangin suppressed renal apoptotic cell death by significantly lowering the protein expression of Bax and cytochrome C and activity of caspase-3 alongside upregulating the protein expression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. Additionally, galangin activated the impaired autophagy flux as seen by diminishing the accumulation of SQSTM1/p62 and increasing the protein expression of Beclin 1. Meanwhile, galangin stimulated the autophagy-linked AMPK/mTOR pathway by significantly increasing the p-AMPK/total AMPK and lowering p-mTOR/total mTOR ratios.

CONCLUSION

Galangin mitigated cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity thanks to its promising antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and pro-autophagic effects. In perspective, galangin stimulated the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 and AMPK/mTOR pathways. Hence, it may act as a complementary tool for the management of cadmium-induced renal injury.

Targeting inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis by troxerutin attenuates methotrexate-induced renal injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Troxerutin, a bioflavonoid with marked immune-modulatory and antioxidant features, has been proven to ameliorate experimental cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and neurodegeneration. However, its impact on methotrexate (MTX)-induced nephrotoxicity has not been investigated. In the current work, we aimed to investigate the potential of troxerutin to combat MTX-triggered renal injury, exploring immune cell infiltration, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis, with emphasis on the HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB, AMPK/mTOR, and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

METHODOLOGY

Troxerutin (150 mg/kg/day) was administered by oral gavage and the renal tissues were examined with the aid of biochemical assays, ELISA, histology, and immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

Troxerutin mitigated MTX-induced renal dysfunction by significantly lowering creatinine, BUN, and KIM-1 alongside immune-cell infiltration and histopathologic aberrations. These favorable effects were mediated by inhibition of HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB cascade via downregulating the protein expression of HMGB1, RAGE, and nuclear NF-κBp65 alongside its downstream signals, including COX-2 and TNF-α. Moreover, troxerutin activated the autophagy flux as evidenced by upregulating renal Beclin 1, lowering p62 SQSTM1 accumulation, and activation of AMPK/mTOR pathway, seen by increasing p-AMPK/total AMPK and lowering p-mTOR/total mTOR signals. In tandem, troxerutin combated renal apoptotic changes as proven with lowering caspase-3 activity, Bax expression, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and upregulating the proliferation signal PCNA. Additionally, the oxidative insult was attenuated by troxerutin, as evidenced by lowering NOX-1 and lipid peroxides, replenishing GSH, GPx, and SOD antioxidants, and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

CONCLUSION

Troxerutin attenuated MTX-triggered renal injury via inhibition of inflammation and apoptosis alongside activation of autophagy. Thus, it may serve as an adjunct modality for the management of MTX-linked nephrotoxicity.

Ellagic Acid Alleviates Rheumatoid Arthritis in Rats through Inhibiting MTA1/HDAC1-Mediated Nur77 Deacetylation

Ellagic acid (EA) was reported to play protective roles in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It was found that the level of metastasis-associated gene 1 (MTA1)/histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) protein complex was downregulated by polyphenols in several human disorders. Notably, inhibition of MTA1 or HDAC1 has anti-inflammatory effects on RA. Therefore, our study is aimed at investigating whether EA prevents RA progression through regulating the MTA1/HDAC1 complex. Herein, the human fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) cell line MH7A was treated with TNF-α to induce an inflammation model in vitro and then incubated with different concentrations of EA. Western blot analysis showed that EA reduced MTA1 expression in a dose-dependent manner in MH7A cells. Then, TNF-α-treated MH7A cells were incubated with EA alone or together with MTA1 overexpression plasmid (pcDNA-MTA1), and we found that EA inhibited proliferation, inflammation cytokine levels, and oxidative stress marker protein levels and promoted apoptosis in MH7A cells, while MTA1 overexpression abolished these effects. Moreover, coimmunoprecipitation assay verified the interaction between MTA1 and HDAC1. EA downregulated the MTA1/HDAC1 complex in MH7A cells. MTA1 knockdown inhibited proliferation, inflammation, and oxidative stress and promoted apoptosis in MH7A cells, while HDAC1 overexpression reversed these effects. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay indicated that EA inhibited HDAC1-mediated Nur77 deacetylation. Rescue experiments demonstrated that Nur77 knockdown reversed the effects of EA on MH7A cell biological behaviors. Additionally, EA treatment attenuated arthritis index, paw swelling, synovial hyperplasia, and inflammation in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats. In conclusion, EA inhibited proliferation, inflammation, and oxidative stress and promoted apoptosis in MH7A cells and alleviated the severity of RA in CIA rats though downregulating MTA1/HDAC1 complex and promoting HDAC1 deacetylation-mediated Nur77 expression.

Bioactive compounds and therapeutic role of Brassica oleracea L. seeds in rheumatoid arthritis rats via regulating inflammatory signalling pathways and antagonizing interleukin-1 receptor action

CONTEXT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease characterized by aggressive and systematic polyarthritis.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to isolate and identify the phenolic constituents in Brassica oleracea L. (Brassicaceae) seeds methanolic extract and evaluates its effect against rheumatoid arthritis in rats referring to the new therapy; interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The GC/MS profiling of the plant was determined. Arthritis induction was done using complete Freund's adjuvant. Arthritis severity was assessed by percentage of edema and arthritis index. IL-1 receptor type I gene expression, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), oxidative stress markers, protein content, inflammatory mediators, prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2), genetic abnormalities and the histopathological features of ankle joint were evaluated.

RESULTS

For the first time twelve phenolic compounds had been isolated from the seeds extract. Treatment with extract and IL-1RA improved the tested parameters by variable degrees.

CONCLUSIONS

RA is an irreversible disease, where its severity increases with the time of induction. Brassica oleracea L. seeds extract is considered as a promising anti-arthritis agent. IL-1 RA may be considered as an unusual therapeutic agent for RA disease. More studies are needed to consider the seeds extract as a nutraceutical agent and to recommend IL-1RA as a new RA drug.

Anti-arthritic activity of the flavonoids fraction of ivy leaves (Hedera helix L.) standardized extract in adjuvant induced arthritis model in rats in relation to its metabolite profile using LC/MS

Ivy leaves (Hedera helix) is a traditional plant used for common cold, cough, and bronchial disorders and can be used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as an attempt in alternative medicine. RA is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by its increasing frequency and adverse consequences. There is an urgent need for a long-term therapy that has favorable biological effects and is less expensive than the already authorized synthetic medicines. This study aimed to determine the anti-arthritic potentials of Hedera helix with determination of the bioactive fraction and discovery of its second-generation metabolites by means of LC/MS. The total ivy ethanolic extract (TIE-E), saponins fraction (Sap-F) and flavonoids fraction (Flav-F) were investigated for their in-vitro anti-arthritic effects and in-vivo by Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) using Complete Freund's Adjuvant (0.1 mL, CFA) intradermal relative to the usual dose of ibuprofen (5 mg/kg). We examined the physical alterations, rheumatoid biomarkers, cytokines that cause and inhibit inflammation, markers of oxidative stress, hyaluronidase and β-glucuronidase enzyme activity. Each paw's histopathology was also evaluated. The chemical profiles of TIE-E were studied using LC/MS in both positive and negative ionization modes. TIE-E (200 mg/kg) and Flav-F (100 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) lowered the edema of the paws, serum immunological indicators, inflammatory cytokines, degenerative enzymes, and indicators of reactive oxygen species with increasing in the anti-inflammatory cytokines. Our findings suggest that extracts of ivy leaves might be used effectively to treat rheumatoid arthritis, where its flavonoid content is responsible for that, and it is able to repress biochemical, oxidative, and pathological changes associated with (AIA) Adjuvant-induced arthritis.

Traditional herbal medicine: Therapeutic potential in rheumatoid arthritis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease influenced by diverse endogenous and exogenous factors. It is characterized by cartilage and bone destruction. The current conventional allopathic therapy is expensive and carries adverse side effects. Recently, there were some ethnopharmacological studies on RA including anti-RA effects and therapeutic targets of distinct dosage forms of traditional herbal medicines (THMs).

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review provides a brief overview of the current understanding of the potential pharmacological mechanisms of THMs (active constituents, extracts and prescriptions) in RA. This study is intended to provide comprehensive information and reference for exploring new therapeutic strategies of THMs in the RA treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review captured scientific literatures invivo and vitro experiments on effects of anti-RA THMs published between 2016 and 2021 from journals and electronic databases (e.g. PubMed, Elsevier, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar). Relevant literatures were searched and analyzed by using keywords such as 'rheumatoid arthritis AND traditional herbal medicines', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND immune cells', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND inflammation', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND miRNA', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND Angiogenesis', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND oxidative stress', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND osteoclasts', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND CIA model', 'rheumatoid arthritis AND AA model' AND 'rheumatoid arthritis herbal prescription'.

RESULTS

Experiments in vitro and in vivo jointly demonstrated the potential of THMs in the RA treatment. There are plentiful therapeutic targets in RA. THMs and active ingredients could alleviate RA symptoms through different therapeutic targets, such as immunoregulation, inflammation, fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs), microRNAs (miRNAs), angiogenesis, oxidative stress, osteoclasts and multiple targets interaction. Anti-RA THMs, active ingredients and prescriptions through corresponding therapeutic targets were summarized and classified.

CONCLUSIONS

Flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids and triterpenes of THMs are identified as the main components to ameliorate RA. Regulation of different and multiple related therapeutic targets by THMs and their active ingredients were associated with greater therapeutic benefits, among which inflammation is the main therapeutic target. Nonetheless, further studies are required to unravel the complexities and in-depth mechanisms of THMs in alleviating RA.

Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott Flower Extract Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Factors in the Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Rat Model

Introduction

This research was to evaluate the beneficial effects of Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott flower extract (SJF) on the adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model.

Methods

Arthritis was evoked by injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) in the hind paw. SJF (150 or 300 mg/kg/day) or Celecoxib (5 mg/kg/day) were administered intragastrically from the 0th day to the 28th day. The arthritis symptoms (paw edema, arthritic scores, mechanical hyperalgesia, and thermal hyperalgesia), inflammation biomarkers (RT and CRP), related enzymes (MMP1 and MMP13), oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD, GPx, and MDA), and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β) of SJF-treated CFA rats were evaluated.

Results

CFA rats exhibited severe arthritis symptoms, increased oxidative stress, and inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, SJF treatment relieving arthritis symptoms and restored body weight gain compared with those in the CFA group. SJF treatment decreased the levels of CRP, RF, MMP1, and MMP13 in the CFA group. Besides, SJF treatment increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes and decreased the MDA content and inflammatory cytokines compared with those in the CFA group. Moreover, SJF could increase the mRNA expression of GPx-1 and CAT and inhibit the mRNA expression of IL-6 and TNF-α in the ankle tissue of CFA rats.

Activation of AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy and inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome by saxagliptin ameliorate ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage

AIMS

Saxagliptin, a selective/potent dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, has revealed remarkable anti-inflammatory features in murine models of nephrotoxicity, hepatic injury, and neuroinflammation. However, its potential effect on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury has not been examined. Hence, the present work investigated the prospect of saxagliptin to attenuate ethanol-evoked gastric injury, with emphasis on the AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy and NLRP3/ASC/caspase-1 pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In ethanol-induced gastropathy, the gastric tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, histopathology, and ELISA.

KEY FINDINGS

The results demonstrated that saxagliptin (10 mg/kg; by gavage) suppressed the gastric pathological signs (area of gastric ulcer and ulcer index scores), histopathologic aberrations/damage scores, without provoking hypoglycemia in rats. These protective features were attributed to the enhancement of gastric mucosal autophagy flux, as proven with increased expression of LC3-II and Beclin 1, decreased accumulation of p62 SQSTM1, and activation of the autophagy-linked AMPK/mTOR pathway by increasing the expression of p-AMPK/AMPK and decreasing the expression of the autophagy suppressor p-mTOR/mTOR signal. In tandem, saxagliptin counteracted the ethanol-induced pro-apoptotic events by downregulating Bax, upregulating Bcl2 protein, and lowering the Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Equally important, saxagliptin suppressed the NLRP3 inflammasome in the gastric tissue by lowering the expression of NLRP3, ASC, and nuclear NF-κBp65, decreasing the activity of caspase-1, and diminishing the IL-1β levels. In the same regard, saxagliptin suppressed the mucosal oxidative stress by lowering lipid peroxide levels, increasing GSH and GPx antioxidants, and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

Saxagliptin may be a promising intervention against ethanol-evoked gastropathy by activating AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome.

Inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis by camel milk mitigates cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity: Targeting Nrf2/HO-1 and AKT/eNOS/NO pathways

Cyclosporine (CsA) is a widely used immunosuppressive agent that incurs marked nephrotoxicity in the clinical setting. Thus, there is a need for finding safe/effective agents that can attenuate CsA-induced kidney injury. Meanwhile, the underlying mechanisms for CsA-associated nephrotoxicity are inadequately investigated, in particular, the AKT/eNOS/NO pathway. Here, the present work aimed to explore the potential of camel milk, a natural product with distinguished antioxidant/anti-inflammatory actions, to ameliorate CsA-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The molecular mechanisms related to renal oxidative aberrations and apoptosis were studied, including Nrf2/HO-1 and AKT/eNOS/NO pathways. The kidney tissues were inspected using histopathology, ELISA, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The present findings demonstrated that camel milk (10 ml/kg) significantly lowered creatine, BUN, and NGAL nephrotoxicity markers and the aberrant histopathology, with similar efficacy to the reference quercetin. Moreover, camel milk suppressed the renal oxidative stress, as evidenced by significantly lowering NOX-1 and lipid peroxides and significantly augmenting the renal antioxidant moieties (GSH, GPx, and SOD), thereby, driving the restoration of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Meanwhile, camel milk counteracted the pro-apoptotic reactions by significantly lowering Bax protein expression, caspase-3 activity/cleavage, and PARP cleavage, alongside significantly increasing the expression of the proliferation signal PCNA. Regarding the anti-apoptotic AKT/eNOS/NO pathway, camel milk activated its signaling by significantly increasing the protein expression of PI3Kp110, p-AKT(Ser473)/total AKT, and p-eNOS (Ser1177)/total eNOS besides significantly boosting the renoprotective NO levels. In conclusion, these findings reveal that camel milk may be a promising candidate for the alleviation of CsA-induced nephrotoxicity.

Molecular insights into phytochemicals exhibiting anti-arthritic activity: systematic review : John Di Battista

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with an unclear etiology causing severe inflammation, joint pain, and destruction that increases the chance of disability over time. Dysregulation of various immune signaling cascades regulates the formation of synovial hyperplasia and pannus formation. Imbalance in cytokine levels, predominantly proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-12p70 profoundly influences the disease's pathogenesis. Even though various strategies are adopted to treat arthritis, their side effects and cost limit their usage. This review discusses the multiple pathways involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, provides a systematic analysis of various phytochemicals, and discusses their potential molecular targets in RA treatment.

METHODS

The literature mining was done from scientific databases such as PubMed, Europe PMC, Web of Science, Scopus, etc. The terminologies used for literature mining were Rheumatoid arthritis, phytochemicals, cell signaling pathways, molecular mechanism, etc. RESULTS: NF-κB, MAPKs, and JAK-STAT are the key pathways potentially targeted for RA treatment. However, specific susceptible pathways and potential targets remain unexplored. Besides, the phytochemicals remain an immense source to be exploited for the effective treatment of RA, overcoming the demerits of the conventional strategies. Various in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that polyphenols and flavonoids effectively treat RA conditions overcoming the demerits, such as limitations in usage and toxicity. The phytochemicals should be explored in par with the pathological mechanisms with all the available targets to determine their therapeutic efficacy. Through the established therapeutic efficacy, phytochemicals can help developing therapeutics that are safe and efficacious for RA treatment.

CoQ10 augments candesartan protective effect against tourniquet-induced hind limb ischemia-reperfusion: Involvement of non-classical RAS and ROS pathways

Tourniquet is a well-established model of hind limb ischemia–reperfusion (HLI/R) in rats. Nevertheless, measures should be taken to alleviate the expected injury from ischemia/ reperfusion (I/R). In the present study, 30 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 6): control, HLI/R, HLI/R given candesartan (1 mg/kg, P.O); HLI/R given Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) (10 mg/kg, P.O); HLI/R given candesartan (0.5 mg/kg) and CoQ10 (5 mg/kg). The drugs were administered for 7 days starting one hour after reperfusion. Candesartan and CoQ10 as well as their combination suppressed gastrocnemius content of angiotensin II while they raised angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activity, angiotensin (1–7) expression, and Mas receptor mRNA level. Consequently, candesartan and/or CoQ10 reversed the oxidative stress and inflammatory changes that occurred following HLI/R as demonstrated by the rise of SOD activity and the decline of MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 skeletal muscle content. Additionally, candesartan and/or CoQ10 diminished gastrocnemius active caspase-3 level and phospho-p38 MAPK protein expression. Our study proved that CoQ10 enhanced the beneficial effect of candesartan in a model of tourniquet-induced HLI/R by affecting classical and non-classical renin-angiotensin system (RAS) pathway. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing the impact of CoQ10 on skeletal muscle RAS in rats.

Camel Milk Mitigates Cyclosporine-Induced Renal Damage in Rats: Targeting p38/ERK/JNK MAPKs, NF-κB, and Matrix Metalloproteinases

Renal damage is a devastating adverse effect for cyclosporine; a widely used immunosuppressant drug. The present work examined the potential of camel milk, a natural agent with marked anti-inflammatory/antioxidant properties, to attenuate cyclosporine-induced renal injury. The kidney tissue was examined with the aid of Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, biochemical assays, including colorimetric and ELISA kits. The present findings revealed that camel milk (10 mL/kg/day; for 3 weeks by gavage) significantly lowered serum creatinine, BUN, and KIM-1 renal dysfunction markers. Mechanistically, camel milk inhibited renal inflammation, as seen by significant decrease of the pro-inflammatory cytokines (MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18) and extracellular degradation signals (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and enhanced the generation of the anti-inflammatory IL-10. Moreover, it inhibited the upstream pro-inflammatory p38/ERK/JNK MAPK pathway by lowering the phosphorylation of the 3 subfamilies of MAPKs (p38 MAPK, JNK1/2, and ERK1/2). Furthermore, camel milk curbed the NF-κB pathway activation by downregulating the protein expression of activated NF-κBp65, p-NF-κBp65, and p-IκBα proteins. Additionally, camel milk inhibited renal oxidative stress by lowering the MPO activity and augmenting the reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio and total antioxidant capacity. These findings propose that camel milk may be a promising agent that inhibits cyclosporine-triggered renal inflammation via curtailing the p38/ERK/JNK MAPK and NF-κB pathways, matrix metalloproteinases, and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Linagliptin mitigates experimental inflammatory bowel disease in rats by targeting inflammatory and redox signaling

AIMS

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) has been involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), yet the underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. The present study aimed to investigate the potential of linagliptin, a potent/selective DPP-4 inhibitor with marked anti-inflammatory actions, to attenuate trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-evoked colitis in rats; an experimental model of IBD, and the implicated molecular mechanisms. This may add to the clinical utility of linagliptin for the management of patients with coexisting IBD and diabetes mellitus. Notably, no former studies have linked JAK2/STAT3, HMGB1/NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in TNBS-evoked colitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Western blotting and ELISA were used to determine the levels of target signals.

KEY FINDINGS

Administration of linagliptin (1.5 mg/kg; p.o.) mitigated the colitis severity via diminishing the disease activity index, colon weight/length ratio, and macroscopic scores. Linagliptin also lowered the colonic histologic scores and leukocyte invasion. Notably, linagliptin inhibited the colonic DPP-4 activity and upregulated the expression of intestinotrophic GLP-2 without incurring hypoglycemia in animals. Linagliptin curbed inflammation through the suppression of colonic IL-6, TNF-α, and myeloperoxidase and upregulation of IL-10. It also inhibited the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway via downregulating p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3 protein expression and HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB cascade through lowering HMGB1, RAGE, and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 protein expression. In the context of mucosal oxidative stress, linagliptin diminished lipid peroxides and augmented GSH, GPx, and total antioxidant capacity. It also activated Nrf2/HO-1 pathway via upregulating Nrf2 and HO-1 protein expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

Linagliptin shows a promise for the management of IBD via targeting IL-6/JAK2/STAT3, HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

Activation of autophagy and suppression of apoptosis by dapagliflozin attenuates experimental inflammatory bowel disease in rats: Targeting AMPK/mTOR, HMGB1/RAGE and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

Dapagliflozin, a selective sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, has featured marked anti-inflammatory effects in murine models of myocardial infarction, renal injury, and neuroinflammation. Yet, its potential impact on the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) has not been previously investigated. The presented study aimed to explore the prospect of dapagliflozin to mitigate 2,4,6 trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced rat colitis model which recapitulates several features of the human IBD. The molecular mechanisms pertaining to the dynamic balance between autophagy/apoptosis and colon injury were delineated, particularly, AMPK/mTOR, HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. The colon tissues were examined using immunoblotting, ELISA, and histopathology. Dapagliflozin (0.1, 1 and 5 mg/kg; p.o.) dose-dependently mitigated colitis severity as manifested by suppression of the disease activity scores, macroscopic damage scores, colon weight/length ratio, histopathologic perturbations, and inflammatory markers. More important, dapagliflozin enhanced colonic autophagy via upregulating Beclin 1 and downregulating p62 SQSTM1 protein expression. In this context, dapagliflozin activated the AMPK/mTOR pathway by increasing the p-AMPK/AMPK and lowering the p-mTOR/mTOR ratios, thereby, favoring autophagy. Moreover, dapagliflozin dampened the colonic apoptosis via lowering the caspase-3 activity, cleaved caspase-3 expression, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Furthermore, dapagliflozin attenuated the HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB pathway via lowering HMGB1, RAGE, and p-NF-κBp65 protein expression. Regarding oxidative stress, dapagliflozin lowered the oxidative stress markers and augmented the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Together, the present study reveals, for the first time, the ameliorative effect of dapagliflozin against experimental colitis via augmenting colonic autophagy and curbing apoptosis through activation of AMPK/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways and suppression of HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB cascade.

Rapid determination of rosmarinic acid and its two bioactive metabolites in the plasma of rats by LC-MS/MS and application to a pharmacokinetics study

Rosmarinic acid (RA), an ester compound of caffeic acid (CA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllacic acid, is widely distributed in the herbs of the Lamiaceae family and has shown a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties. CA and FA (ferulic acid) are two bioactive metabolites in vivo after oral administration of RA; however, a rapid and robust analytical approach that can enable the quantitative assay of RA and two bioactive metabolites is still lacking. A liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method was established that was capable of the quantitative determination of RA, CA and FA by negative-mode multiple reaction monitoring within 7 min using a Zorbax SB-C18 column and an isocratic elution. This assay method was validated as linear over the investigated ranges with correlation coefficients (r) > 0.9950. The intra- and inter-day precision was <10.65%, and the accuracies (relative error, %) <-6.41%. The validated approach was applied to a pharmacokinetics study of RA and its two metabolites in rats after oral and intravenous administration. RA was rapidly metabolized in both administration modes, whilst the metabolites CA and FA were only detectable by oral administration. The absolute availability of RA was calculated to be 4.13%.

Activation of autophagy by sitagliptin attenuates cadmium-induced testicular impairment in rats: Targeting AMPK/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

AIMS

Cadmium (Cd) is a prevalent environmental contaminant that incurs deleterious health effects, including testicular impairment. Sitagliptin, a selective dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, has demonstrated marked cardio-, hepato-, and reno-protective actions, however, its impact on Cd-triggered testicular dysfunction has not been formerly investigated. Hence, the present study aimed to explore the probable beneficial impact of sitagliptin against Cd-evoked testicular impairment which may add to its potential clinical utility. The underlying mechanisms pertaining to the balance between testicular autophagy and apoptosis were explored, including the AMPK/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The testicular tissues were examined using histopathology, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and ELISA. Sitagliptin (10 mg/kg/day, by gavage) was administered for 4 consecutive weeks.

KEY FINDINGS

Sitagliptin attenuated the testicular impairment via improvement of the relative testicular weight, sperm count/motility, sperm abnormalities, and serum testosterone. Additionally, sitagliptin counteracted Cd-induced histologic aberrations/disrupted spermatogenesis. Interestingly, sitagliptin augmented the defective autophagy as demonstrated by upregulating Beclin 1 protein expression and lowering p62 SQSTM1 protein accumulation. These effects were mediated via the activation of testicular AMPK/mTOR pathway as proven by increasing p-AMPK (Ser485, Ser491)/total AMPK and diminishing p-mTOR (Ser2448)/total mTOR protein expression. Additionally, sitagliptin suppressed the testicular apoptotic events via downregulating Bax and upregulating Bcl-2 protein expression. In tandem, sitagliptin suppressed the oxidative stress through lowering lipid peroxides and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway via upregulating the protein expression of Nrf2, and the downstream effectors HO-1 and GPx.

SIGNIFICANCE

Sitagliptin attenuated Cd-induced testicular injury via boosting the autophagy/apoptosis ratio through activation of AMPK/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

Influenza virus-mediated suppression of bronchial Chitinase-3-like 1 secretion promotes secondary pneumococcal infection

Infections of the lung are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Despite the preactivation of innate defense programs during viral infection, secondary bacterial infection substantially elevates morbidity and mortality rates. Particularly problematic are co-infections with influenza A virus (IAV) and the major bacterial pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae. However, the molecular processes underlying the severe course of such co-infections are not fully understood. Previously, the absence of secreted glycoprotein Chitinase-3-like 1 (CHI3L1) was shown to increase pneumococcal replication in mice. We therefore hypothesized that an IAV preinfection decreases CHI3L1 levels to promote pneumococcal infection. Indeed, in an air-liquid interface model of primary human bronchial epithelial cells (hBECs), IAV preinfection interfered with apical but not basolateral CHI3L1 release. Confocal time-lapse microscopy revealed that the gradual loss of apical CHI3L1 localization during co-infection with influenza and S. pneumoniae coincided with the disappearance of goblet as well as ciliated cells and increased S. pneumoniae replication. Importantly, extracellular restoration of CHI3L1 levels using recombinant protein significantly reduced bacterial load in influenza preinfected bronchial models. Thus, recombinant CHI3L1 may provide a novel therapeutic means to lower morbidity and mortality associated with post-influenza pneumococcal infections.

6-Methoxymellein Isolated from Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Targets Breast Cancer Stem Cells by Regulating NF-κB Signaling

The presence of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) induces the aggressive progression and recurrence of breast cancer. These cells are drug resistant, have the capacity to self-renew and differentiate and are involved in recurrence and metastasis, suggesting that targeting BCSCs may improve treatment efficacy. In this report, methanol extracts of carrot root were purified by means of silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, and preparative high-performance liquid chromatography to isolate a compound targeting mammosphere formation. We isolated the compound 6-methoxymellein, which inhibits the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells, reduces mammosphere growth, decreases the proportion of CD44⁺/CD24⁻ cells in breast cancer cells and decreases the expression of stemness-associated proteins c-Myc, Sox-2 and Oct4. 6-Methoxymellein reduces the nuclear localization of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunit p65 and p50. Subsequently, 6-methoxymellein decreases the mRNA transcription and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8. Our data suggest that 6-methoxymellein may be an anticancer agent that inhibits BCSCs via NF-κB/IL-6 and IL-8 regulation.

Polyphenols and their applications: An approach in food chemistry and innovation potential

Polyphenols are compounds naturally present in fruits and vegetables that are gaining more and more attention due to their therapeutic effects and their potential technological applications. In this review, we intend to demonstrate the importance of some phenolic compounds, addressing their biological effects and potential for applications in various industrial fields. The intake of these compounds in appropriate concentrations can present promising effects in the prevention of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and others. They can also be used to improve the physicochemical properties of starch, in the preservation of foods, as natural dyes, prebiotic ingredients, hydrogels and nanocomplexes. In addition, these compounds have potential for innovation in the most diverse technological fields, including organic fine chemistry, basic materials chemistry, pharmaceuticals, food chemistry, chemical engineering, etc.

Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of caffeic acid: in vivo evidences in a model of noise-induced hearing loss

SCOPE

The imbalance of cellular redox status, in conjunction with the activation of inflammatory processes, have been considered common predominant mechanisms of noise-induced hearing loss. The identification of novel natural products as potential therapeuticstargeting oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways is an emerging field. Here, we focused on the polyphenol caffeic acid (CA), the major representative of hydroxycinnamic acids and phenolic acid, in order to investigate its protective capacity in a model of sensorineural hearing loss induced by noise.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Hearing loss was induced by exposing animals (Wistar rats) to a pure tone, 120 dB, 10 kHz for 60 min. By using auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and immunofluorescence analysis, we found that CA protects auditory function and limits cell death in the cochlear middle/basal turn, damaged by noise exposure. Immunofluorescence analysis provided evidence that CA mediates multiple cell protection mechanisms involving both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects by decreasing NF-κB and IL-1β expression in the cochlea and opposing the oxidative/nitrosative damage induced by noise insult.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that the supplementation of polyphenol CA can be considered a valid therapeutic strategy for attenuating noise-induced hearing loss and cochlear damage targeting both inflammatory signalling and cochlear redox balance.