6-Gingerol induces autophagy to protect HUVECs survival from apoptosis

Effects of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) on the Hallmarks of Aging

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is broadly used as a traditional remedy and food ingredient, and numerous preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated health benefits in a range of age-related disorders. Moreover, longevity-promoting effects have been demonstrated in several (preclinical) research models. With this work, we aimed to comprehensively review the reported effects of ginger and its bioactive constituents on the twelve established hallmarks of aging, with the ultimate goal of gaining a deeper understanding of the potential for future interventions in the area of longevity-extension and counteracting of aging-related diseases. The reviewed literature supports the favorable effects of ginger and some of its constituents on all twelve hallmarks of aging, with a particularly high number of animal research studies indicating counteraction of nutrient-sensing dysregulations, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis. On this background, validation in human clinical trials is still insufficient or is entirely missing, with the exception of some studies indicating positive effects on deregulated nutrient-sensing, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis. Thus, the existing body of literature clearly supports the potential of ginger to be further studied in clinical trials as a supplement for the promotion of both lifespan and health span.

Network pharmacology and experimental verification to explore the anti-superficial thrombophlebitis mechanism of Mailuo shutong pill

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mailuo shutong pill (MLST) has been widely used in clinical treatment of superficial thrombotic phlebitis (STP). Nevertheless, the major active components of MLST and the mechanism of synergistic action have not been reported.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to evaluate the improving effects and the underlying mechanism of MLST on mannitol-induced STP in rabbits.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadrupole-exactive orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS) was used to analyze and identify the chemical composition of MLST and the prototype components absorbed into the blood. Then, according to the prototype components in serum, the targets and mechanisms of MLST were explored by applying network pharmacology. The rabbit model of STP was established by injecting 20% mannitol into bilateral auricular vein. The pathological changes of rabbit ear tissues, inflammatory factors, coagulation function and hemorheology were detected. In addition, molecular docking verified the interaction between the main active ingredient and the key target. Finally, the PI3K/AKT pathway and its regulated downstream pathways were verified by Western blot.

RESULTS

A total of 96 MLST components and 53 prototypical components absorbed into the blood were successfully identified. Based on network pharmacology, PI3K/AKT pathway and 10 chemical components closely related to this pathway were obtained. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining results indicated that MLST effectively improved of the pathological damage of ear tissues. MLST decreased levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP). The expression of platelets (PLT) and fibrinogen concentration (FIB) was decreased, while prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were prolonged. In addition, the plasma viscosity and whole blood viscosity in the MLST groups were significantly decreased. The more important discovery was that the expressions of P-PI3K, VEGF, P-AKT, P-IκB-α, P-NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, Cleaved IL-1β and Cleaved Caspase-1 were effectively reversed after treatment with MLST.

CONCLUSIONS

This study comprehensively analyzed and characterized the chemical composition of MLST and the prototypical components absorbed into the blood. This study strongly confirmed the pharmacodynamic effect of MLST on STP. More importantly, this pharmacodynamic effect was achieved through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway and its regulated NF-κB and NLRP3 pathways.

Natural supplements in antiphospholipid syndrome: A case for further study

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by thrombotic events and/or pregnancy complications in the presence of persistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Although long-term anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists is considered standard of care, there is an unmet need for safe therapeutics as primary thromboprophylaxis or adjuncts to standard of care in APS. APS is driven by oxidative stress, procoagulant, proinflammatory and angiogenic pathways. For these reasons there has been an increased interest into the investigation of antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of natural supplements in APS. The objective of this review is to summarize the mechanistic, epidemiologic and clinical evidence behind the use of natural supplements in APS, with a specific focus on vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, gingerol, and isoquercetin. This review should serve as a compelling argument for the future study of natural supplements in APS.

PVT1 alleviates hypoxia-induced endothelial apoptosis by enhancing autophagy via the miR-15b-5p/ATG14 and miR-424-5p/ATG14 axis

Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) play important roles in various cellular processes and are involved in several vascular endothelial cells (VECs) biological processes, including cell growth, migration, autophagy, and apoptosis. The functions of plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in VECs have been progressively investigated in recent years, mainly with regard to proliferation and migration of endothelial cells (ECs). However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of autophagy and apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) by PVT1 remains unclear. The present study showed that PVT1 knockdown accelerated apoptosis induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) through suppression of cellular autophagy. Bioinformatic prediction of PVT1 target miRNAs revealed that PVT1 interacts with miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p. The study further showed that miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p inhibit the functions of autophagy related 14 (ATG14) and suppress cellular autophagy. The results showed that PVT1 can function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p and promote cellular autophagy by competitive binding, which down-regulates apoptosis. The results showed that PVT1 can function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p and promote cellular autophagy through competitive binding, which down-regulates apoptosis. The study provides insight into a novel therapeutic target that may be explored in the future for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Antioxidant Activity in Extracts from Zingiberaceae Family: Cardamom, Turmeric, and Ginger

An increase in life expectancy leads to a greater impact of chronic non-communicable diseases. This is even more remarkable in elder populations, to whom these become main determinants of health status, affecting mental and physical health, quality of life, and autonomy. Disease appearance is closely related to the levels of cellular oxidation, pointing out the importance of including foods in one's diet that can prevent oxidative stress. Previous studies and clinical data suggest that some plant-based products can slow and reduce the cellular degradation associated with aging and age-related diseases. Many plants from one family present several applications that range from the food to the pharmaceutical industry due to their characteristic flavor and scents. The Zingiberaceae family, which includes cardamom, turmeric, and ginger, has bioactive compounds with antioxidant activities. They also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antiemetic activities and properties that help prevent cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. These products are abundant sources of chemical substances, such as alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and diarylheptanoids. The main bioactive compounds found in this family (cardamom, turmeric, and ginger) are 1,8-cineole, α-terpinyl acetate, β-turmerone, and α-zingiberene. The present review gathers evidence surrounding the effects of dietary intake of extracts of the Zingiberaceae family and their underlying mechanisms of action. These extracts could be an adjuvant treatment for oxidative-stress-related pathologies. However, the bioavailability of these compounds needs to be optimized, and further research is needed to determine appropriate concentrations and their antioxidant effects in the body.

Natural compounds from botanical drugs targeting mTOR signaling pathway as promising therapeutics for atherosclerosis: A review

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including coronary artery disease, hypertension, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Hence, the mechanisms of AS are still being explored. A growing compendium of evidence supports that the activity of the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is highly correlated with the risk of AS. The mTOR signaling pathway contributes to AS progression by regulating autophagy, cell senescence, immune response, and lipid metabolism. Various botanical drugs and their functional compounds have been found to exert anti- AS effects by modulating the activity of the mTOR signaling pathway. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis of AS based on the mTOR signaling pathway from the aspects of immune response, autophagy, cell senescence, and lipid metabolism, and comb the recent advances in natural compounds from botanical drugs to inhibit the mTOR signaling pathway and delay AS development. This review will provide a new perspective on the mechanisms and precision treatments of AS.

Vitamin D Receptor Activation Targets ROS-Mediated Crosstalk Between Autophagy and Apoptosis in Hepatocytes in Cholestasic Mice

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Observational epidemiologic studies have associated vitamin D deficiency with cholestasis. We reported previously that activation of the vitamin D/vitamin D receptor (VDR) axis in cholangiocytes mitigates cholestatic liver injury by remodeling the damaged bile duct. However, the function of VDR in hepatocytes during cholestasis remains unclear.

METHODS

Paricalcitol (VDR agonist, 200 ng/kg) was injected intraperitoneally into bile duct-ligated mice every other day for 5 days. Primary hepatocytes and HepG2 hepatoma cells were transfected with Vdr short hairpin RNA, control short hairpin RNA, Vdr plasmid, control vector, Atg5 small interfering RNA (siRNA), and control siRNA. Liver histology, cell proliferation, and autophagy were evaluated.

RESULTS

Treatment with the VDR agonist paricalcitol improved liver injury in bile duct-ligated mice by up-regulating VDR expression in hepatocytes, which in turn reduced hepatocyte apoptosis by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation via suppressing the Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1/reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 pathway. Mechanistically, upon exposure to an ROS-inducing compound, Vdr siRNA contributed to apoptosis, whereas the Vdr overexpression caused resistance to apoptosis. Interestingly, up-regulated VDR expression also increased the generation of autophagosomes and macroautophagic/autophagic flux, which was the underlying mechanism for reduced apoptosis following VDR activation. Autophagy depletion impaired the positive effects of VDR overexpression, whereas autophagy induction was synergystic with VDR overexpression. Importantly, up-regulation of VDR promoted autophagy activation by suppressing the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) pathway. Thus, a p38MAPK inhibitor abrogated the Vdr siRNA-induced decrease in autophagy and the Vdr siRNA-induced increase in apoptosis. In contrast, a Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/ERK activator prevented the enhancement of autophagy and decreased apoptosis following Vdr overexpression. Moreover, the ROS inhibitor N-acetylcystein (NAC) blocked Vdr siRNA-enhanced activation of the ERK/p38MAPK pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

VDR activation mitigated liver cholestatic injury by reducing autophagy-dependent hepatocyte apoptosis and suppressing the activation of the ROS-dependent ERK/p38MAPK pathway. Thus, VDR activation may be a potential target for the treatment of cholestatic liver disease.

The Impact of Oxidative Stress and AKT Pathway on Cancer Cell Functions and Its Application to Natural Products

Oxidative stress and AKT serine-threonine kinase (AKT) are responsible for regulating several cell functions of cancer cells. Several natural products modulate both oxidative stress and AKT for anticancer effects. However, the impact of natural product-modulating oxidative stress and AKT on cell functions lacks systemic understanding. Notably, the contribution of regulating cell functions by AKT downstream effectors is not yet well integrated. This review explores the role of oxidative stress and AKT pathway (AKT/AKT effectors) on ten cell functions, including apoptosis, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial morphogenesis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, DNA damage response, senescence, migration, and cell-cycle progression. The impact of oxidative stress and AKT are connected to these cell functions through cell function mediators. Moreover, the AKT effectors related to cell functions are integrated. Based on this rationale, natural products with the modulating abilities for oxidative stress and AKT pathway exhibit the potential to regulate these cell functions, but some were rarely reported, particularly for AKT effectors. This review sheds light on understanding the roles of oxidative stress and AKT pathway in regulating cell functions, providing future directions for natural products in cancer treatment.

Promising influences of gingerols against metabolic syndrome: A mechanistic review

Metabolic syndrome is an inflammatory disorder characterized by diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Globally, this disease is increasing, especially in developed countries. Supposedly, herbal treatments for this disease likely have fewer adverse effects than chemical medications. Thus, they can be suitable options among the available chemical treatments. Ginger has been used as a spice and medicinal plant in traditional medicine and cooking. This herbal compound and its derivatives, such as 6-gingerol, have shown promising effects on various molecular aspects of metabolic syndrome. In this study, we reviewed and discussed the significant impacts of gingerol, a derivative of ginger, on metabolic syndrome through various mechanisms. The benefits of 6-gingerol include its effects on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which prevent diabetes, lipid regulating effect (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, PPARs), as well as its effects on enzymes and proteins preventing hyperlipidemia caused by a high-fat diet. In addition, 6-gingerol has anti-atherosclerosis and anti-hypertension effects through several molecular mechanisms. The current review will discuss various effects of 6-gingerol on molecular pathways involved in diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, and hypertension as characterizing features of metabolic syndrome and suggests that 6-gingerol can be a potential treatment agent for metabolic syndrome and shed light on a higher requirement for more pre-clinical and clinical investigations.

Nutritional benefits of ginger for patients with non-communicable diseases

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a famous dietary spice rich in bioactive components like gingerols, and it has been used for a long time as food and medicine. Indeed, clinical studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger. Thus, ginger seems to be an excellent complementary nutritional strategy for non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. This narrative review aims to discuss the possible effects of ginger on the mitigation of common complications such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut dysbiosis in NCD.

Dendrobine modulates autophagy to alleviate ox-LDL-induced oxidative stress and senescence in HUVECs

Dendrobine has potential advantages in suppressing atherosclerosis (AS). FK506-binding protein 1A (FKBP1A) is implicated in the regulation of autophagy, inflammation, and apoptosis. To reveal the mechanism by which dendrobine inhibits AS by modulating autophagy, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and senescence. An in vitro AS cell model was induced by culturing human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). The cells were treated with dendrobine alone or in combination with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting FKBP1A or together with 3-methyladenine (3MA), an autophagy inhibitor. Inflammatory cytokines levels tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β were analyzed and oxidative stress levels were detected by the analysis of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase levels, followed by the analysis of apoptosis levels through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining. Cell senescence was evaluated by senescence-associated β-galactosidase and light chain 3 (LC3) levels were detected by immunofluorescence (IF) staining. The targeting relationship of dendrobine and FKBP1A was predicted by SwissTarget, PyMol, Autodock, and Open Babel software. Dendrobine reduced the levels of proinflammation factors, oxidative stress levels, apoptosis levels, and senescence phenotype in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Besides, cell viability has an opposite change. Furthermore, there was an increase in LC3 IF tensity, and LC3-II/I and Beclin1 expressions, and a decrease in p62 expression. However, these effects of dendrobine could be markedly destroyed by shRNA silencing FKBP1A and 3MA. Dendrobine can suppress inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and senescence via FKBP1A-involved autophagy ox-LDL-treated HUVECs.

Promising effects of gingerol against toxins: A review article

Ginger is a medicinal and valuable culinary plant. Gingerols, as an active constituent in the fresh ginger rhizomes of Zingiber officinale, exhibit several promising pharmacological properties. This comprehensive literature review was performed to assess gingerol's protective and therapeutic efficacy against the various chemical, natural, and radiational stimuli. Another objective of this study was to investigate the mechanism of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic properties of gingerol. It should be noted that the data were gathered from in vivo and in vitro experimental studies. Gingerols can exert their protective activity through different mechanisms and cell signaling pathways. For example, these are mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), Wnt/β-catenin, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE), transforming growth factor beta1/Smad3 (TGF-β1/Smad3), and extracellular signal-related kinase/cAMP-response element-binding protein (ERK/CREB). We hope that more researchers can benefit from this review to conduct preclinical and clinical studies, treat cancer, inflammation, and attenuate the side effects of drugs and industrial pollutants.

6-Gingerol protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and apoptosis via TRPV1 / FAF1 complex dissociation-mediated autophagy

BACKGROUND

Our previous studies demonstrated that autophagy alleviates cerebral I/R injury by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation. 6-Gingerol, a phenolic compound extracted from ginger, was reported to possess potent antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities and is associated with autophagy. However, the effects of 6-Gingerol in cerebral I/R injury have not been elucidated, and whether they involve autophagy-induced NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition remains unclear.

METHODS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1 h, followed by reperfusion for 24 h. 6-Gingerol and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) were injected intraperitoneally, and si-TRPV1 was injected via the lateral ventricle. Cerebral infarct volume, brain edema, neurological deficits, HE and Nissl were used to evaluate the morphological and functional changes of brain tissue, respectively. TRPV1, FAF1, autophagy related (LC3II/I, P62, Beclin1), inflammation related (NLRP3, cleaved-caspase-1, caspase-1, cleaved-IL-1β, IL-1β, cleaved-IL-18, IL-18) and apoptosis related (Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved-caspase-3) proteins were assessed by Western blot, immunofluorescence staining and coimmunoprecipitation, respectively. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the changes in the expression levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1β) and interleukin-18(IL-18), respectively. The degree of neuronal apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL staining. Neuronal ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULT

6-Gingerol treatment significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume, improved brain edema and neurological scores, and reversed brain histomorphological damage after I/R injury. In addition, 6-Gingerol significantly reduced NLRP3 inflammasome-derived inflammation and neuronal apoptosis and upregulated autophagy. The autophagy inhibitor 3-MA rescued the effects of 6-Gingerol on the NLRP3 inflammasome and apoptosis. Moreover, the findings illustrated that 6-Gingerol inhibited autophagy-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis through the dissociation of TRPV1 from FAF1.

CONCLUSION

In brief, 6-Gingerol exerts antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects via TRPV1/FAF1 complex dissociation-mediated autophagy during cerebral I/R injury. Therefore, 6-Gingerol may be an effective drug for the treatment of I/R injury.

Pharmacology of Natural Volatiles and Essential Oils in Food, Therapy, and Disease Prophylaxis

This commentary critically examines the modern paradigm of natural volatiles in 'medical aromatherapy', first by explaining the semantics of natural volatiles in health, then by addressing chemophenetic challenges to authenticity or reproducibility, and finally by elaborating on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes in food, therapy, and disease prophylaxis. Research over the last 50 years has generated substantial knowledge of the chemical diversity of volatiles, and their strengths and weaknesses as antimicrobial agents. However, due to modest in vitro outcomes, the emphasis has shifted toward the ability to synergise or potentiate non-volatile natural or pharmaceutical drugs, and to modulate gene expression by binding to the lipophilic domain of mammalian cell receptors. Because essential oils and natural volatiles are small and lipophilic, they demonstrate high skin penetrating abilities when suitably encapsulated, or if derived from a dietary item they bioaccumulate in fatty tissues in the body. In the skin or body, they may synergise or drive de novo therapeutic outcomes that range from anti-inflammatory effects through to insulin sensitisation, dermal rejuvenation, keratinocyte migration, upregulation of hair follicle bulb stem cells or complementation of anti-cancer therapies. Taking all this into consideration, volatile organic compounds should be examined as candidates for prophylaxis of cardiovascular disease. Considering the modern understanding of biology, the science of natural volatiles may need to be revisited in the context of health and nutrition.

Bcl-2-dependent autophagy disruption during aging impairs amino acid utilization that is restored by hochuekkito

Chronic undernutrition contributes to the increase in frailty observed among elderly adults, which is a pressing issue in the sector of health care for older people worldwide. Autophagy, an intracellular recycling system, is closely associated with age-related pathologies. Therefore, decreased autophagy in aging could be involved in the disruption of energy homeostasis that occurs during undernutrition; however, the physiological mechanisms underlying this process remain unknown. Here, we showed that 70% daily food restriction (FR) induced fatal hypoglycemia in 23–26-month-old (aged) mice, which exhibited significantly lower hepatic autophagy than 9-week-old (young) mice. The liver expressions of Bcl-2, an autophagy-negative regulator, and Beclin1–Bcl-2 binding, were increased in aged mice compared with young mice. The autophagy inducer Tat-Beclin1 D11, not the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, decreased the plasma levels of the glucogenic amino acid and restored the blood glucose levels in aged FR mice. Decreased liver gluconeogenesis, body temperature, physical activity, amino acid metabolism, and hepatic mitochondrial dynamics were observed in the aged FR mice. These changes were restored by treatment with hochuekkito that is a herbal formula containing several autophagy-activating ingredients. Our results indicate that Bcl-2 upregulation in the liver during the aging process disturbs autophagy activation, which increases the vulnerability to undernutrition. The promotion of liver autophagy may offer clinical therapeutic benefits to frail elderly patients.

Role of Herbal Teas in Regulating Cellular Homeostasis and Autophagy and Their Implications in Regulating Overall Health

Tea is one of the most popular and widely consumed beverages worldwide, and possesses numerous potential health benefits. Herbal teas are well-known to contain an abundance of polyphenol antioxidants and other ingredients, thereby implicating protection and treatment against various ailments, and maintaining overall health in humans, although their mechanisms of action have not yet been fully identified. Autophagy is a conserved mechanism present in organisms that maintains basal cellular homeostasis and is essential in mediating the pathogenesis of several diseases, including cancer, type II diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer’s disease. The increasing prevalence of these diseases, which could be attributed to the imbalance in the level of autophagy, presents a considerable challenge in the healthcare industry. Natural medicine stands as an effective, safe, and economical alternative in balancing autophagy and maintaining homeostasis. Tea is a part of the diet for many people, and it could mediate autophagy as well. Here, we aim to provide an updated overview of popular herbal teas’ health-promoting and disease healing properties and in-depth information on their relation to autophagy and its related signaling molecules. The present review sheds more light on the significance of herbal teas in regulating autophagy, thereby improving overall health.

Vasculoprotective effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and underlying molecular mechanisms

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a common and widely used spice. It is rich in various chemical constituents, including phenolic compounds, terpenes, polysaccharides, lipids, organic acids, and raw fibers. Herein, we reviewed its effects on the vascular system. Studies utilizing cell cultures or animal models showed that ginger constituents alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation, increase nitric oxide synthesis, suppress vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, promote cholesterol efflux from macrophages, inhibit angiogenesis, block voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, and induce autophagy. In clinical trials, ginger was shown to have a favorable effect on serum lipids, inflammatory cytokines, blood pressure, and platelet aggregation. Taken together, these studies point to the potential benefits of ginger and its constituents in the treatment of hypertension, coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial diseases, and other vascular diseases.

Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology

Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens (ZRR, the fresh rhizoma of Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is also a traditional spice, widely used around the world. The present paper reviews advances in research relating to the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens. In addition, this review also discusses some significant issues and the potential direction of future research on Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens. More than 100 chemical compounds have been isolated from Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens, including gingerols, essential oils, diarylheptanoids, and other compounds. Modern studies have confirmed that Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens has pharmacological effects on the nervous system and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, as well as antiemetic, antibacterial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. However, the modern studies of Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens are still not complete and more bioactive components and potential pharmacological effects need to be explored in the future. There is no unified standard to evaluate the quality and clinical efficacy of Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens. Therefore, we should establish reasonable, accurate, and reliable quality control standards to make better use of Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens.

The combination of ginger powder and zinc supplement improves the fructose-induced metabolic syndrome in rats by modulating the hepatic expression of NF-κB, mTORC1, PPAR-α SREBP-1c, and Nrf2

Although studies have shown that ginger, as an herbal remedy and zinc are able to improve inflammation, oxidative stress, autophagy, and metabolism of lipid and glucose, their molecular mechanisms are unknown. Therefore, this study was aimed to examine the therapeutic effects of ginger with zinc supplement for eight weeks on fructose-induced metabolic syndrome (MS). Ninety-six adult male Sprague Dawley rats (220 g ± 20) were randomly assigned to twelve controlled and treated groups. After the last treatment session, the level of lipid profiles, glucose, insulin, and leptin as metabolic factors and liver enzymes as biomarkers to evaluate liver function in serum were measured. The level of antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation to evaluate the oxidative status and the TNF-α level as a biomarker to assess the state of inflammation in liver were also measured. The level of zinc along with the expression of NF-κB, mTORC1, PPAR-α, SREBP-1c, and Nrf2 in liver was also evaluated. The level of metabolic factors and liver enzymes in serum along with lipid peroxidation and TNF-α in liver increased; zinc and antioxidant enzymes levels decreased in rats with MS compared to control rats (p < .05). The hepatic expression of SREBP-1c, NF-κB and mTORC1 were upregulated and the expression of PPAR-α and Nrf2 were downregulated in rats with MS compared to control rats (p < .05). Treatment with different doses of ginger, zinc, and the combination of them could improve metabolic, inflammatory oxidative stress factors, and expression of the above genes in rats with MS compared to the MS group (p < .05). It can be concluded that ginger, zinc, and the combination of them could improve oxidative damage, inflammation, and autophagy induced by fructose and could adjust the glucose and lipid metabolism and the homeostasis of zinc in rats with MS. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Due to the increasing prevalence of metabolic diseases, the use of plant compounds such as ginger has attracted widespread attention. Ginger as an herbal remedy with predominant pharmacological properties due to its availability, cheapness, and lack of side effects is also very popular for the treatment of metabolic disorders in folk medicine. Moreover, enhancing its medicinal properties with supplements such as zinc can be widely welcomed. This study was actually performed with the aim of investigating the effects of ginger + zinc supplement on MS. The results showed that the ginger + zinc supplement could improve oxidative damage, inflammation, and autophagy caused by fructose and adjust the glucose and lipid metabolism and the homeostasis of zinc in rats with MS. The results of this study support the hypothesis that ginger can be used as a very suitable option for the production of medicinal supplements to maintain human health.

6-gingerol protects nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells from oxidative injury by activating autophagy

BACKGROUND

To date, there has been no effective treatment for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) showed encouraging results in IDD treatment, but the overexpression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) impaired the endogenous repair abilities of NPMSCs. 6-gingerol (6-GIN) is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory reagent that might protect NPMSCs from injury.

AIM

To investigate the effect of 6-GIN on NPMSCs under oxidative conditions and the potential mechanism.

METHODS

The cholecystokinin-8 assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of hydrogen peroxide and the protective effects of 6-GIN. ROS levels were measured by 2´7´-dichlorofluorescin diacetate analysis. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) was detected by the tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide assay. TUNEL assay and Annexin V/PI double-staining were used to determine the apoptosis rate. Additionally, autophagy-related proteins (Beclin-1, LC-3, and p62), apoptosis-associated proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3), and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway-related proteins (PI3K and Akt) were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Autophagosomes were detected by transmission electron microscopy in NPMSCs. LC-3 was also detected by immunofluorescence. The mRNA expression of collagen II and aggrecan was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the changes in collagen II and MMP-13 expression were verified through an immunofluorescence assay.

RESULTS

6-GIN exhibited protective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced injury in NPMSCs, decreased hydrogen peroxide-induced intracellular ROS levels, and inhibited cell apoptosis. 6-GIN could increase Bcl-2 expression and decrease Bax and caspase-3 expression. The MMP, Annexin V-FITC/PI flow cytometry and TUNEL assay results further confirmed that 6-GIN treatment significantly inhibited NPMSC apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide. 6-GIN treatment promoted extracellular matrix (ECM) expression by reducing the oxidative stress injury-induced increase in MMP-13 expression. 6-GIN activated autophagy by increasing the expression of autophagy-related markers (Beclin-1 and LC-3) and decreasing the expression of p62. Autophagosomes were visualized by transmission electron microscopy. Pretreatment with 3-MA and BAF further confirmed that 6-GIN-mediated stimulation of autophagy did not reduce autophagosome turnover but increased autophagic flux. The PI3K/Akt pathway was also found to be activated by 6-GIN. 6-GIN inhibited NPMSC apoptosis and ECM degeneration, in which autophagy and the PI3K/Akt pathway were involved.

CONCLUSION

6-GIN efficiently decreases ROS levels, attenuates hydrogen peroxide-induced NPMSCs apoptosis, and protects the ECM from degeneration. 6-GIN is a promising candidate for treating IDD.

Nutritional implications of ginger: chemistry, biological activities and signaling pathways

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) has been used as a food, spice, supplement and flavoring agent and in traditional medicines due to its beneficial characteristics such as pungency, aroma, nutrients and pharmacological activity. Ginger and ginger extracts were reported to have numerous effects, such as those on diabetes and metabolic syndrome, cholesterol levels and lipid metabolism, and inflammation, revealed by epidemiological studies. To understand the beneficial characteristics of ginger, especially its physiological and pharmacological activities at the molecular level, the biological effects of ginger constituents, such as monoterpenes (cineole, citral, limonene and α/β-pinenes), sesquiterpenes (β-elemene, farnesene and zerumbone), phenolics (gingerols, [6]-shogaol, [6]-paradol and zingerone) and diarylheptanoids (curcumin), and the associated signaling pathways are summarized. Ginger constituents are involved in biological activities, such as apoptosis, cell cycle/DNA damage, chromatin/epigenetic regulation, cytoskeletal regulation and adhesion, immunology and inflammation, and neuroscience, and exert their effects through specific signaling pathways associated with cell functions/mechanisms such as autophagy, cellular metabolism, mitogen-activated protein kinase and other signaling, and development/differentiation. Estrogens, such as phytoestrogens, are one of the most important bioactive materials in nature, and the molecular mechanisms of estrogen actions and the assays to detect them have been discussed. The molecular mechanisms of estrogen actions induced by ginger constituents and related applications, such as the chemoprevention of cancers, and the improvement of menopausal syndromes, osteoporosis, endometriosis, prostatic hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome and Alzheimer's disease, were summarized by a comprehensive search of references to understand more about their health benefits and associated health risks.

Cannabinoid-Induced Autophagy and Heme Oxygenase-1 Determine the Fate of Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells under Stressful Conditions

The administration of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) represents a promising therapeutic option after myocardial ischemia or myocardial infarction. However, their potential is reduced due to the high post-transplant cell mortality probably caused by oxidative stress and mitogen-deficient microenvironments. To identify protection strategies for ADMSCs, this study investigated the influence of the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) and the endocannabinoid analogue R(+)-methanandamide (MA) on the induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and autophagy under serum-free conditions. At a concentration of 3 µM, CBD induced an upregulation of HO-1 mRNA and protein within 6 h, whereas for MA only a late and comparatively lower increase in the HO-1 protein could be detected after 48 h. In addition, both cannabinoids induced time- and concentration-dependent increases in LC3A/B-II protein, a marker of autophagy, and in metabolic activity. A participation of several cannabinoid-binding receptors in the effect on metabolic activity and HO-1 was excluded. Similarly, knockdown of HO-1 by siRNA or inhibition of HO-1 activity by tin protoporphyrin IX (SnPPIX) had no effect on CBD-induced autophagy and metabolic activity. On the other hand, the inhibition of autophagy by bafilomycin A₁ led to a significant decrease in cannabinoid-induced metabolic activity and to an increase in apoptosis. Under these circumstances, a significant induction of HO-1 expression after 24 h could also be demonstrated for MA. Remarkably, inhibition of HO-1 by SnPPIX under conditions of autophagy deficit led to a significant reversal of apoptosis in cannabinoid-treated cells. In conclusion, the investigated cannabinoids increase metabolic viability of ADMSCs under serum-free conditions by inducing HO-1-independent autophagy but contribute to apoptosis under conditions of additional autophagy deficit via an HO-1-dependent pathway.

Preeclampsia with Intrauterine Growth Restriction Generates Morphological Changes in Endothelial Cells Associated with Mitochondrial Swelling-An In Vitro Study

Pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) promotes endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction. Our in vitro study aimed to evaluate the endothelial cell morphology after acute and chronic exposition to medium supplemented with serum taken from healthy pregnant women and women with IUGR and IUGR with PE. In the same condition, ECs viability, proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and serum concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were also measured. Pregnant women with IUGR and IUGR with PE-delivered babies with reduced body mass and were characterized in elevated blood pressure, urine protein loss, and reduced level of VEGF. The 24 hours of exposition did not exert any morphological changes in ECs, except the reduction in cell viability, but prolonged exposition resulted in significant morphological changes concerning mostly the swelling of mitochondria with accompanying ROS production, cell autophagy, reduced cell viability, and proliferation only in complicated pregnancies. In conclusion, the sera taken from women with IUGR and IUGR with PE show a detrimental effect on ECs, reducing their viability, proliferation, and generating oxidative stress due to dysfunctional mitochondria. This multidirectional effect might have an adverse impact on the cardiovascular system in women with IUGR and PE.

Iron oxide nanoparticles promote vascular endothelial cells survival from oxidative stress by enhancement of autophagy

Dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Dex-SPIONs) are excellent magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents for disease diagnosis and therapy. They can be delivered to target tissues mainly though vascular endothelium cells, which are major targets of oxidative stress. In cardiovascular cells, autophagy serves primarily on a pro-survival approach that protects the cells from oxidative stress even some autophagy inducers have been developed for adjuvant therapy of cardiovascular disorders. Our study demonstrated that the nanoparticles could be taken up by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) without causing obvious cytotoxicity but triggering autophagy. Furthermore, our results revealed that Dex-SPIONs could enhance HUVECs survival and reverse the reduction of nitric oxide secretion under the condition of H₂O₂ damage. However, these effects could be diminished by the autophagy inhibitor. In particular, we discovered that Dex-SPIONs evoked autophagy in HUVECs by reducing the phosphorylation of PRAS40, an upstream regulator of autophagy initiation. These results suggested that Dex-SPIONs functions as an autophagic-related antioxidant in HUVECs which may be utilized as an adjuvant therapy to cardiovascular disease associated with oxidative stress.

Recent advances of analogues of curcumin for treatment of cancer

Curcumin (CU), an edible natural pigment from Curcuma Longa, has demonstrated extensive anti-tumor effect in vivo and in vitro. With the property of reversing drug resistance and low toxicity, CU has been considered to develop a new adjuvant chemotherapy protocol of cancer. However, the poor stability, solubility, in vivo bioavailability and weak activity of CU greatly limit its clinical application. Therefore, CU analogues have been extensively studied. Starting from the study of natural CU analogues, multiple approaches are being sought to obtain more stable, soluble and effective analogues of CU. This review focuses on the progress of these approaches to more potent CU analogues.

Ameliorative and protective effects of ginger and its main constituents against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities: A comprehensive review

Fatal unintentional poisoning is widespread upon human exposure to toxic agents such as pesticides, heavy metals, environmental pollutants, bacterial and fungal toxins or even some medications and cosmetic products. In this regards, the application of the natural dietary agents as antidotes has engrossed a substantial attention. One of the ancient known traditional medicines and spices with an arsenal of metabolites of several reported health benefits is ginger. This extended literature review serves to demonstrate the protective effects and mechanisms of ginger and its phytochemicals against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities. Collected data obtained from the in-vivo and in-vitro experimental studies in this overview detail the designation of the protective effects to ginger's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Ginger's armoury of phytochemicals exerted its protective function via different mechanisms and cell signalling pathways, including Nrf2/ARE, MAPK, NF-ƙB, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β1/Smad3, and ERK/CREB. The outcomes of this review could encourage further clinical trials of ginger applications in radiotherapy and chemotherapy regime for cancer treatments or its implementation to counteract the chemical toxicity induced by industrial pollutants, alcohol, smoking or administered drugs.

Spices and Atherosclerosis

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. Atherosclerosis, characterized by lipid accumulation and chronic inflammation in the vessel wall, is the main feature of cardiovascular disease. Although the amounts of fruits and vegetables present in the diets vary by country, diets, worldwide, contain large amounts of spices; this may have positive or negative effects on the initiation and development of atherosclerosis. In this review, we focused on the potential protective effects of specific nutrients from spices, such as pepper, ginger, garlic, onion, cinnamon and chili, in atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms, epidemiological analysis, and clinical studies focusing on a variety of spices are covered in this review. Based on the integrated information, we aimed to raise specific recommendations for people with different dietary styles for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease through dietary habit adjustments.

Protective and therapeutic potential of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract and [6]-gingerol in cancer: A comprehensive review

Natural dietary agents have attracted considerable attention due to their role in promoting health and reducing the risk of diseases including cancer. Ginger, one of the most ancient known spices, contains bioactive compounds with several health benefits. [6]-Gingerol constitutes the most pharmacologically active among such compounds. The aim of the present work was to review the literature pertaining to the use of ginger extract and [6]-gingerol against tumorigenic and oxidative and inflammatory processes associated with cancer, along with the underlying mechanisms of action involved in signaling pathways. This will shed some light on the protective or therapeutic role of ginger derivatives in oxidative and inflammatory regulations during metabolic disturbance and on the antiproliferative and anticancer properties. Data collected from experimental (in vitro or in vivo) and clinical studies discussed in this review indicate that ginger extract and [6]-gingerol exert their action through important mediators and pathways of cell signaling, including Bax/Bcl2, p38/MAPK, Nrf2, p65/NF-κB, TNF-α, ERK1/2, SAPK/JNK, ROS/NF-κB/COX-2, caspases-3, -9, and p53. This suggests that ginger derivatives, in the form of an extract or isolated compounds, exhibit relevant antiproliferative, antitumor, invasive, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Atheroprotective effects and molecular targets of bioactive compounds from traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has served the Chinese people since antiquity, and is playing an important role in today's healthcare. However, there has been controversy in the use of these traditional herbs due to unclear components and absence of scientific proof. As China plans to modernize traditional medicine, successful attempts to better understand the molecular mechanisms of TCM have been made by focusing on isolating active ingredients from these remedies. In this review, we critically examined the current evidence on atheroprotective effects of bioactive compounds from TCM using in vitro or in vivo models in the past two decades. A total of 47 active compounds were included in our review, which were introduced in the order of chemical structures, source, model, efficacy and mechanism. Notablely, this review highlighted the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these active compounds in prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Two compounds were also involved in double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Besides, we introduced the legislations of the People's Republic of China ensuring quality and safety of products used in TCM. In summary, studies on bioactive compounds from TCM will provide a new approach for better management of atherosclerosis.

Warming Up to New Possibilities with the Capsaicin Receptor TRPV1: mTOR, AMPK, and Erythropoietin

BACKGROUND

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a superfamily of ion channels termed after the trp gene in Drosophila that are diverse in structure and control a wide range of biological functions including cell development and growth, thermal regulation, and vascular physiology. Of significant interest is the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) receptor, also known as the capsaicin receptor and the vanilloid receptor 1, that is a non-selective cation channel sensitive to a host of external stimuli including capsaicin and camphor, venoms, acid/basic pH changes, and temperature.

METHODS

Given the multiple modalities that TRPV1 receptors impact in the body, we examined and discussed the role of these receptors in vasomotor control, metabolic disorders, cellular injury, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and neurodegenerative disorders and their overlap with other signal transduction pathways that impact trophic factors.

RESULTS

Surprisingly, TRPV1 receptors do not rely entirely upon calcium signaling to affect cellular biology, but also have a close relationship with the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), and protein kinase B (Akt) that have roles in pain sensitivity, stem cell development, cellular survival, and cellular metabolism. These pathways with TRPV1 converge in the signaling of growth factors with recent work highlighting a relationship with erythropoietin (EPO). Angiogenesis and endothelial tube formation controlled by EPO requires, in part, the activation of TRPV1 receptors in conjunction with Akt and AMPK pathways.

CONCLUSION

TRPV1 receptors could prove to become vital to target disorders of vascular origin and neurodegeneration. Broader and currently unrealized implementations for both EPO and TRPV1 receptors can be envisioned for for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in multiple systems of the body.

Roles of Autophagy in Ischemic Heart Diseases and the Modulatory Effects of Chinese Herbal Medicine

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved degradation process which eliminates dysfunctional proteins and cytoplasmic components to maintain homeostasis for cell survival. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the modulatory role of autophagy in ischemic heart diseases (IHDs). Traditionally, this process has been recognized as having protective functions, such as inhibiting atherosclerosis progression and reducing cell death during the ischemic phase. However, recent studies have suggested its dual roles in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MIR) injury. Excessive autophagy may play a deleterious role in cardiac function, due to overwhelming clearance of cellular constituents and proteins. Hence modulation of autophagy to increase cardiomyocyte survival and improve cardiac function is meaningful for the treatment of IHD. Chinese herbal medicine, including extractive compounds and patented drugs, has shown its potential role in treating IHD by addressing autophagy-related mechanisms. This review summarizes the updated knowledge on the molecular basis and modulatory role of autophagy in IHD and the recent progress of Chinese herbal medicine in its treatment.

6-Gingerol prevents MEHP-induced DNA damage in human umbilical vein endothelia cells

Mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) is the principal metabolite of di (2-etylhexyl) phthalate, which is widely used as a plasticizer, especially in medical devices. MEHP has toxic effects on cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility that 6-gingerol may inhibit the oxidative DNA damage of MEHP in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the potential mechanism. The comet assay was used to monitor DNA strand breaks. We have shown that 6-gingerol significantly reduced the DNA strand breaks caused by MEHP. MEHP increased the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, decreased the level of glutathione and activity of superoxide dismutase, and altered the mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, DNA damage-associated proteins (p53 and p-Chk2 (T68)) were significantly increased by the treatment of MEHP. Those effects can all be protected by 6-gingerol. The results firmly indicate that 6-gingerol may have a strong protective ability against the DNA damage caused by MEHP in HUVECs, and the mechanism may relate to the antioxidant activity.