Commiphora molmol resin attenuates diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital-induced hepatocarcinogenesis by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling

Induction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Conventional Domestic Swine Using N-Diethylnitrosamine and Phenobarbital

Purpose

Large animal models are still used in many studies because of their likeness to humans. It has not been documented that regular-sized conventional farm-breed pigs, generally bred for meat production, can be used to generate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) animal models. The goal of this study was to investigate how N-diethylnitrosamine (DENA) and phenobarbital (PB) together can generate HCC in ordinary farmed pigs.

Materials and Methods

Conventional domestic swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) were used. DENA 15 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected weekly for 12 weeks, while PB tablets (4 mg/kg) were also administered through food for 16 weeks. Blood testing and ultrasonography evaluation were performed to monitor the progress. Subsequently, computed tomography was conducted in cases with suspected nodules, followed by histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis.

Results

Ten swine (seven males, three females; age: 2 months; weight: 9-15 kg) were included in the study and followed up for 25 months; nine were experimental, and one was control for ethical considerations. The maximum weight of animals during this study reached 162-228 kg. The weight gain seen in the intervention swine was predominantly lower than that documented in the control. The laboratory analysis revealed no notable abnormalities in liver function markers but did demonstrate statistically significant changes in urea (p = 0.028) and creatinine (p = 0.003) levels. Ultrasonography and computed tomography showed multiple liver nodules with characteristics resembling HCC. Serial imaging screening and more extended observations revealed that all animals eventually developed tumors. Histopathological confirmation at 15-22 weeks post-induction revealed that all intervened swine developed multiple nodules of well-differentiated HCC and some with hepatic angiosarcoma.

Conclusion

This study successfully generated HCC in conventional domestic swine with a DENA and PB combination. This investigation required at least 15 months to develop tumors. This model will be beneficial for future investigations of HCC in large animals.

Redox-Responsive Polymeric Nanoparticle for Nucleic Acid Delivery and Cancer Therapy: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges

Cancer development and progression of cancer are closely associated with the activation of oncogenes and loss of tumor suppressor genes. Nucleic acid drugs (e.g., siRNA, mRNA, and DNA) are widely used for cancer therapy due to their specific ability to regulate the expression of any cancer-associated genes. However, nucleic acid drugs are negatively charged biomacromolecules that are susceptible to serum nucleases and cannot cross cell membrane. Therefore, specific delivery tools are required to facilitate the intracellular delivery of nucleic acid drugs. In the past few decades, a variety of nanoparticles (NPs) are designed and developed for nucleic acid delivery and cancer therapy. In particular, the polymeric NPs in response to the abnormal redox status in cancer cells have garnered much more attention as their potential in redox-triggered nanostructure dissociation and rapid intracellular release of nucleic acid drugs. In this review, the important genes or signaling pathways regulating the abnormal redox status in cancer cells are briefly introduced and the recent development of redox-responsive NPs for nucleic acid delivery and cancer therapy is systemically summarized. The future development of NPs-mediated nucleic acid delivery and their challenges in clinical translation are also discussed.

Myrrh Essential Oil Mitigates Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Injury

BACKGROUND

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced renal injury is a common reason for kidney injury in clinical settings; therefore, continuous investigation of novel nephroprotective agents is crucial. Myrrh, the oleoresin exudates generated by the genus Commiphora, display numerous pharmacological actions. This study tried to assess the preventive effects of myrrh essential oil against I/R-induced renal damage.

METHODS

Rats were randomized into five groups. In the sham group, the animals were subjected to bilateral renal artery separation with no occlusion. In the sham + myrrh group; the rats were administered myrrh essential oil and then treated similarly to the sham group. Renal I/R group: the animals were challenged with renal I/R. In the myrrh + renal I/R groups, rats were administered 50 or 100 mg/kg of myrrh essential oil orally for three weeks before being confronted with I/R.

RESULTS

Serum levels of renal function tests and renal injury biomarkers, including NGAL, KIM-1, and CysC, were amplified in the renal I/R group. Animals that experienced renal I/R exhibited elevated lipid peroxidation (MDA); declined SOD, CAT, and GPx activity; declined GSH content; augmented TLR4/NFκB gene expression; and subsequent enhancement of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, and IL-6). Myrrh reduced renal function tests and injury biomarkers and amended renal histological alterations. Pretreatment with myrrh reduced MDA, elevated the antioxidant enzymes' activities and GSH content, and reduced the TLR4 and NFκB gene expression, leading to subsequent inflammation and apoptosis alleviation.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of the present investigation established the protective effect of myrrh essential oil against renal I/R via pointing out the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of myrrh.

Potential roles of endothelial cells-related non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases

Endothelial dysfunction is identified by a conversion of the endothelium toward decreased vasodilation and prothrombic features and is known as a primary pathogenic incident in cardiovascular diseases. An insight based on particular and promising biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction may possess vital clinical significances. Currently, non-coding RNAs due to their participation in critical cardiovascular processes like initiation and progression have gained much attention as possible diagnostic as well as prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular diseases. Emerging line of proof has demonstrated that abnormal expression of non-coding RNAs is nearly correlated with the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In the present review, we focus on the expression and functional effects of various kinds of non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases and negotiate their possible clinical implications as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and curative targets.

Z-Guggulsterone Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Targeting the p53/CCNB1/PLK1 Pathway in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora Myrrh Engl., which exerts anticancer properties. However, its effects and molecular mechanisms in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remain unclear. In this study, we used network pharmacology to screen Z-Guggulsterone (Z-GS) as a characteristic active component of myrrh. Cell Counting Kit-8 proliferation assays showed that Z-GS inhibited proliferation of the TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-468 and BT-549. Transwell assays also showed that Z-GS inhibited TNBC migration and invasion phenotypes. Our network pharmacology combined with RNA-sequencing analyses showed that Z-GS affected cell cycle and apoptosis processes in TNBC cells, mainly via p53 signaling, to regulate key CCNB1 (cyclin B1), PLK1 (polo-like kinase 1), and p53 targets. Flow cytometry revealed that Z-GS arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M phase and increased apoptosis in TNBC cells. Western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction studies confirmed that Z-GS functioned via the p53-mediated downregulation of CCNB1 and PLK1 expression. In vivo studies showed that Z-GS effectively inhibited TNBC progression. Collectively, Z-GS exhibited potential anti-TNBC activity and may functions via the p53/CCNB1/PLK1 pathway.

Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update

Medicinal plants have a long track record of use in history, and one of them is Commiphora myrrh which is commonly found in the southern part of Arabia, the northeastern part of Africa, in Somalia, and Kenya. Relevant literatures were accessed via Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to give updated information on the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological action of Commiphora myrrh. It has been used traditionally for treating wounds, mouth ulcers, aches, fractures, stomach disorders, microbial infections, and inflammatory diseases. It is used as an antiseptic, astringent, anthelmintic, carminative, emmenagogue, and as an expectorant. Phytochemical studies have shown that it contains terpenoids (monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and volatile/essential oil), diterpenoids, triterpenoids, and steroids. Its essential oil has applications in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and perfumery. Research has shown that it exerts various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, analgesic, anti-parasitic, and recently, it was found to work against respiratory infections like COVID-19. With the advancement in drug development, hopefully, its rich phytochemical components can be explored for drug development as an insecticide due to its great anti-parasitic activity. Also, its interactions with drugs can be fully elucidated.This review highlights an updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Commiphora myrrh. Graphical summary of the phytochemical and pharmacological update of Commiphora myrrh.

Cytotoxic sesquiterpenoid dimers from the resin of Commiphora myrrha Engl

Seven undescribed sesquiterpenoid dimers, commiphomyrones A - G, together with three known analogs, were isolated from the resin of Commiphora myrrha Engl.. The structures of the undescribed compounds were elucidated based on a comprehensive analysis of spectroscopic data (NMR, UV, IR, and MS), and the absolute configurations were defined by comparing the experimental and calculated ECD spectra as well as by performing X-ray crystallographic analysis. All the isolated dimeric sesquiterpenoids feature a 7-oxabicyclo [2.2.1] hept-2-ene moiety formed by the [4 + 2] cycloaddition of two sesquiterpenoids. Commiphomyrones C and G and commiphoratone D showed cytotoxic activity against the HGC-27 cell line with IC50 values of 22.76, 25.01, and 27.51 μM, respectively.

Femtosecond laser attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver fibrosis in rats: Possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling

Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that occurs in chronic liver injury. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in fibrogenesis which can develop into cirrhosis and carcinoma. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has promising therapeutic effects against fibrogenesis; however, the specific underlying mechanism is not fully elucidated. We investigated the potential of LLLT to attenuate carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis in rats, focusing on oxidative injury, inflammatory response, and the possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Rats were given CCl₄ and exposed to LLLT twice/week for 6 weeks and blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. CCl₄ caused liver injury and fibrosis manifested by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and accumulation of collagen, elevated serum transaminases and bilirubin, and decreased albumin. ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, iNOS, TGF-β1, and IL-6 were increased in the liver of CCl₄-administered rats. Exposure to LLLT ameliorated histopathological alterations, collagen deposition, and liver function markers, and downregulated hepatic α-SMA, collagen 1A1, and collagen 3A1. In Addition, LLLT decreased ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TGF-β1, and pro-inflammatory mediators, and enhanced antioxidant defenses. These effects were associated with upregulated PPARγ, Nrf2, and HO-1, both gene and protein expression. In conclusion, LLLT attenuated liver fibrosis by suppressing ECM production and deposition, oxidative injury and inflammation, and upregulating PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.

A flavonoid-rich fraction of Monolluma quadrangula inhibits xanthine oxidase and ameliorates potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia in rats

Hyperuricemia represents a risk factor for the progression of chronic kidney disease. Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in the mechanisms underlying hyperuricemia-mediated kidney injury. Monolluma quadrangula possesses several beneficial effects; however, its effect on hyperuricemia has not been investigated. This study evaluated the renoprotective and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity of M. quadrangula in hyperuricemic rats. Phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of six known flavonoid isolated for the first time from this species. The rats received M. quadrangula extract (MQE) and potassium oxonate (PO) for 7 days. In vitro assays showed the radical scavenging and XO inhibitory activities of MQE, and in silico molecular docking revealed the inhibitory activity of the isolated flavonoids towards XO. Hyperuricemic rats showed elevated serum uric acid, creatinine, urea, and XO activity, and renal pro-inflammatory cytokines, MDA and NO, and decreased GSH, SOD, and catalase. MQE ameliorated serum uric acid, urea, creatinine, and XO activity, and renal pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, MQE attenuated renal oxidative stress, enhanced antioxidants, downregulated URAT-1, and GLUT-9 and upregulated OAT-1 in PO-induced rats. In conclusion, M. quadrangula attenuated hyperuricemia and kidney impairment by suppressing XO activity, oxidative stress and inflammation, and modulating urate transporters.

The therapeutic role of nutraceuticals targeting the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in liver cancer

Liver cancer (L.C.) is the most common cause of cancer death in the United States and the fifth most common globally. The overexpression of nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) caused by oxidative stress has been associated with tumor growth, aggressiveness, treatment resistance, and poor prognosis. Nutraceuticals that inhibit Nrf2/HO-1 signaling may become the most effective strategy to treat liver cancer. Phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables, also known as nutraceuticals, tend to emerge as chemopreventive agents, with the added benefit of low toxicity and high nutritional values. This paper reviews the present scientific knowledge of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling as a possible target molecule for chemotherapeutic agents, its basic control mechanisms, and Nrf2/HO-1 inducers produced from natural products that might be employed as cancer chemopreventive drugs. The growing interest in the contribution of the Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling in the development of liver cancer and the Use of nutraceuticals to treat liver cancer by targeting Nrf2/ARE/HO-1. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: An increase in Nrf2 expression indicates that Nrf2 is the most important player in liver cancer. Cancer patients are more resistant to chemotherapy because of this erroneous Nrf2 signaling. Furthermore, an increasing body of evidence indicates that activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway results in the production of phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes, which serve a defense purpose in cells. As a consequence, treating liver cancer. This master regulator may be a possibility. Nutraceuticals that reduce Nrf2/HO-1 signaling may be the most effective strategy for preventing liver cancer. The methods of action of numerous natural substances are examined in this article.

Upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cell Death Mediate the Protective Effect of Apigenin against Cyclophosphamide Hepatotoxicity

Liver injury is among the adverse effects of the chemotherapeutic agent cyclophosphamide (CP). This study investigated the protective role of the flavone apigenin (API) against CP-induced liver damage, pointing to the involvement of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Rats were treated with API (20 and 40 mg/kg) for 15 days and received CP (150 mg/kg) on day 16. CP caused liver damage manifested by an elevation of transaminases, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and histological alterations, including granular vacuolation, mononuclear cell infiltration, and hydropic changes. Hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) were increased and glutathione (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes were decreased in CP-administered rats. CP upregulated the inflammatory markers NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-6, and iNOS, along with the pro-apoptotic Bax and caspase-3. Pre-treatment with API ameliorated circulating transaminases, ALP, and LDH, and prevented histopathological changes in CP-intoxicated rats. API suppressed ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, iNOS, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative DNA damage, Bax, and caspase-3 in CP-intoxicated rats. In addition, API enhanced hepatic antioxidants and Bcl-2 and boosted the Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA abundance and protein. In conclusion, API is effective in preventing CP hepatotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress, the inflammatory response, and apoptosis. The hepatoprotective efficacy of API was associated with the upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.

Halawa T, Ahmed Wani ِF. Epigallocatechin gallate ameliorates tetrahydrochloride-induced liver toxicity in rats via inhibition of TGFβ / p-ERK/p-Smad1/2 signaling, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activity

Chronic liver disease is a worldwide health problem. Carbon tetra hydrochloride is an environmental toxin which is regarded as highly toxic and a potential human carcinogen. It can cause liver damage through the generation of metabolites and production of free radicals. Green tea contains catechins such as Epigallocatechin gallate which has been found to reduce the inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in experimental animal models. Hence, it represents a good source to prevent or ameliorate several chronic diseases. Silymarin is extracted from milk thistle seeds and has been found to be an effective agent to reduce the oxidative stress and free radical production and thereby exert protective effects in chronic liver conditions. The present study was planned to keep in view the above-mentioned facts. We included thirty rats in our study and divided them into five groups, each having six rats and the study continued for 8 weeks. Group I received normal saline; Group 2 received i.p. CCl4 injections; Group 3 received CCl4 i.p. injection and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) oral gavage, Group 4 received CCl4 i.p. injection and silymarin by oral gavage; and Group 5 received CCl4 i.p. injection and combined EGCG + silymarin by oral gavage. The study found that in group 2, CCl4 induced significant elevation of ALT and MDA and reduced GSH thereby signifying increased oxidative stress. CCl4 also significantly increased inflammatory (TNFα, NFκB, IL1β, and TGFβ) as well as fibrotic markers (p-ERK and p-Smad1/2 protein expression). EGCG and silymarin significantly reversed the previously mentioned parameters either alone or in combination; however, the effect was more pronounced in case of EGCG. We conclude that EGCG and silymarin possess liver protective effects through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic action.

Mulberry fruit polysaccharides alleviate diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in vivo: the roles of cell apoptosis and inflammation

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, and chemoprevention represents a feasible treatment to reduce the mortality of this carcinoma. Mulberry fruit polysaccharides (MFP) possess immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which have been reported to alleviate liver damage evoked by CCl4 or alcohol in previous reports. However, its chemopreventive effect against liver carcinogenesis is insufficient. The present study was aimed to investigate the possible role of MFP as a pro-apoptosis, and anti-inflammatory agent to possess its chemoprevention property. Hepatocarcinogenesis was induced by diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital (DEN/PB) for 14 weeks. The DEN/PB-administered rats were co-treated with different doses of MFP (50 or 100 mg/kg body weight) by oral gavage for 14 weeks. Basic hepatic function indexes (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin, and albumin), and hepatic tumor biomarkers (AFP, CEA, and CA19.9), together with histological assessment were performed. Besides, the hepatic apoptosis markers (Bcl-2, Bax, caspase3, and caspase9), inflammation markers (IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-κB), and mutT homologue gene 1 (MTH1) were examined. Oral gavage of MFP inhibited the elevations of hepatic function indexes and hepatic tumor biomarkers and alleviated pathological changes in hepatic tissue. In addition, the hepatic apoptosis markers, inflammation markers, and the mRNA level of MTH1 were abnormal in DEN/PB group, which were reversed by MFP treatment. In conclusion, MFP is an effective agent that provides chemoprevention against DEN/PB-evoked hepatocarcinogenesis via inhibition of inflammation and induction of apoptosis.

Astragaloside IV inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by continually suppressing the development of fibrosis and regulating pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Astragalus is a medicinal herb used in China for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as diabetes and cancer. As one of the main active ingredients of astragalus, Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Different phosphorylated forms of Smad3 differentially regulate the progression of hepatic carcinoma. The phosphorylation of the COOH-terminal of Smad3 (pSmad3C) and activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway inhibits hepatic carcinoma, while phosphorylation of the linker region of Smad3 (pSmad3L) promotes progression. Thus, pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways are potential targets for drug of anti-cancer development. AS-IV is anti-apoptotic and can inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma cell (HCC) proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth in nude mice. However, it is not clear whether AS-IV has a therapeutic effect on inhibiting the progression of primary liver cancer by regulating the pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether AS-IV inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

primary liver cancer in mice induced by DEN/CCl₄/C₂H₅OH (DCC) and HSC-T6/HepG2 cell models activated by TGF-β₁ was investigated for the mechanisms of AS-IV. In vivo assays included liver biopsy, histopathology and post-mortem analysis included immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent, and Western blotting analysis, and in vitro assays included immunofluorescent, and Western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

AS-IV significantly inhibited the development of primary liver cancer, reflecting improved liver biopsy, histopathology. The incidence and multiplicity of primary liver cancer were markedly decreased by AS-IV treatment at the 20th week. AS-IV had observable effects on the TGF-β₁/Smad and Nrf2/HO-1 expression in vivo, especially up-regulated pSmad3C, pNrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, while it down-regulated pSmad2C, pSmad2L, pSmad3L, PAI-1, and α-SMA at the 12th week and the 20th week. Furthermore, in vitro analysis further confirmed that AS-IV regulated the expression of pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in HSC-T6 and HepG2 cells activated by TGF-β₁.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV administration delays the occurrence of primary liver cancer by continually suppressing the development of fibrosis, the mechanism of the therapeutic effect involving the regulation of the pSmad3C/3L and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways, especially in regulation reversibility and antagonism of pSmad3C and pSmad3L and promoting the phosphorylation of Nrf2.

An Overview of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Emphasis on Dietary Products and Herbal Remedies

The most common principal malignant tumor that accounts for ∼80% of cases of liver cancer across the world is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is a multifacetedillness that is caused by several risk factors and often progresses in the context of underlying cirrhosis. It is tremendously difficult and essential for the screening of novel therapeutic medications to establish HCC preclinical models that are equivalent to clinical diseases settings, i.e., representing the tumor microenvironment of HCC. In the progress of HCC, numerous molecular cascades have been supposed to play a part. Sorafenib is the only drug permitted by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of HCC. Yet because of the increasing resistance to the drug and its toxicity, clinical treatment methods are not completely adequate. Newer treatment therapy options are essential for the management of HCC in patients. Natural compounds can be afforded by the patients with improved results with less toxicity and fewer side effects, among different methods of liver cancer treatment. The treatment and management of HCC with natural drugs and their phytoconstituents are connected to several paths that can prevent the occurrence and progress of HCC in several ways. The present review summarizes the etiology of HCC, molecular pathways, newer therapeutic approaches, natural dietary products, herbal plants and phytoconstituents for HCC treatment.

Protective effects of myrrh essential oil on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, Nrf2/HO-1 and apoptotic pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myrrh, a traditional remedy, is the stem resinous exudate of Commiphora molmol Engler (Burseraceae). The aromatic yellowish-brown oleoresin has a long history in folk and traditional medicine, in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Severe universal concern attributable to the high mortality is Myocardial Infarction (MI). Acute administration of Isoproterenol (ISO) is an established animal model to induce myocardial injury.

OBJECTIVE

The existing animal study was outlined to inspect the actions of Myrrh essential oil on cardiac functional, antioxidant status, apoptotic and inflammatory deviations in isoproterenol induced MI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Normal and Myrrh control animals were administered normal saline and Myrrh essential oil for thirty days orally, respectively. On the 29th and 30th day, the animals were injected by saline (s.c.). In the ISO control, the animals were administered saline orally for 30 days and then confronted with ISO (85 mg/kg s.c.) on 29th and 30th days. In the Myrrh Groups (IV and V), the animals were treated with Myrrh essential oil (50 and 100 mg/k) respectively for 30 days and injected with ISO (85 mg/kg, s.c.) on 29th and 30th days.

RESULTS

Animals experienced MI displayed functional blood pressure deviations, intensification in the heart to body weight ratio, myocytes indicative markers (CK-MB, CPK, LDH, cTnT, cTnI), lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1, apoptotic markers (Caspase 3,9), and inflammatory indicators. Conversely, animals pre-treated with Myrrh revealed obliteration of those elevations triggered by ISO induction, diminished elevated biochemical values and improved heart function.

CONCLUSION

Myrrh abstain effective cardio-protective action in MI model through improving the oxidative condition with myocytes and abolishing apoptotic as well as inflammatory responses.

Effectiveness of skin protectors and calendula officinalis for prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis: an integrative review

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the effectiveness of skin protectors and Calendula officinalis for prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis.

METHOD

an integrative review conducted at CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE/PubMed, IBECS, LILACS, and Web of Science. The final sample consisted of five studies, four clinical studies and one preclinical. Critical appreciation and narrative synthesis of the findings were carried out.

RESULTS

the Cavilon™ skin protector was more effective than Sorbolene (cream with 10% glycerin) and less effective than Mometasone Furoate cream. Calendula officinalis was more effective than Trolamine and essential fatty acids and less effective than Ching Wan Hung® for prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis.

CONCLUSION

data confirm the potential of Calendula officinalis for prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis and point to promising results regarding skin protector use; however, there is a need for further testing as to the effectiveness of such products.

Circular RNAs in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a common cause of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have attracted substantial attention for their roles in various physiological and pathological processes. In recent years, research on the roles of circRNAs in atherosclerosis has progressed rapidly, and they have been implicated in the pathophysiological processes underlying the development of atherosclerosis, including changes in the functions of endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and macrophages. In this review article, we summarize currently available data regarding the role of circRNAs in atherosclerosis and how circRNAs influence the development of atherosclerosis by regulating ECs, VSMCs, and macrophages. We also discuss their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for coronary artery disease.

Cytotoxic Evaluation and Anti-Angiogenic Effects of Two Furano-Sesquiterpenoids from Commiphora myrrh Resin

Commiphora myrrh resin (Myrrh) has been used in traditional Arabic medicine to treat various inflammatory diseases. Two furano-sesquiterpenoids, 2-methoxyfuranodiene (CM1) and 2-acetoxyfuranodiene (CM2), were isolated from the chloroform fraction of the ethanolic extract of Arabic Commiphora myrrh resin. The cytotoxicity of the compounds was evaluated using human liver carcinoma, breast cancer cells (HepG2 and MCF-7, respectively) and normal human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cell lines. The development toxicity and anti-angiogenic activity of both compounds were also evaluated using zebrafish embryos. Cell survival assays demonstrated that both compounds were highly cytotoxic in HepG2 and MCF7 cells, with IC₅₀ values of 3.6 and 4.4 µM, respectively. Both compounds induced apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest in treated HepG2 cells, which was observed using flow cytometric analysis. The development toxicity in zebrafish embryos showed the chronic toxicity of both compounds. The toxicity was only seen when the embryos remained exposed to the compounds for more than three days. The compound CM2 showed a significant level of anti-angiogenic activity in transgenic zebrafish embryos at sublethal doses. Thus, we demonstrated the cytotoxic properties of both compounds, suggesting that the molecular mechanism of these compounds should be further assessed.

Mangiferin Attenuates LPS/D-GalN-Induced Acute Liver Injury by Promoting HO-1 in Kupffer Cells

Acute liver injury and its terminal phase, hepatic failure, trigger a series of complications, including hepatic encephalopathy, systematic inflammatory response syndrome, and multiorgan failure, with relatively high morbidity and mortality. Liver transplantation is the ultimate intervention, but the shortage of donor organs has limited clinical success. Mangiferin (MF), a xanthone glucoside, has been reported to have excellent anti-inflammatory efficacy. Here, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced acute liver injury mouse model was established to investigate the protective role of MF and the underlying mechanisms of action. Pretreatment with MF improved survival, decreased serum aminotransferase activities, and inhibited hepatic TNF-α production in LPS/D-GalN-challenged mice. Through Kupffer cell (KC) deletion by GdCl₃ and KC adoptive transfer, KCs were confirmed to be involved in these beneficial effects of MF. MF reduced LPS-mediated TNF-α production via the suppression of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro. MF promoted HO-1 expression, but the knockdown of HO-1 prevented TNF-α inhibition, suggesting that the damage-resistance effects of HO-1 occurred via the suppression of TNF-α synthesis. When HO-1-silenced KCs were transferred to the liver with KC deletion, the protective effect of MF against LPS/D-GalN-induced acute liver injury was reduced, illustrating the role of KC-derived HO-1 in the anti-injury effects of MF. Collectively, MF attenuated acute liver injury induced by LPS/D-GalN via the inhibition of TNF-α production by promoting KCs to upregulate HO-1 expression.

Formononetin Upregulates Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Prevents Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Kidney Injury in Methotrexate-Induced Rats

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious complication of methotrexate (MTX). This study explored the protective effect of the isoflavone formononetin (FN) against MTX nephrotoxicity with an emphasis on oxidative stress, inflammation, and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signaling. Rats received FN (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) for 10 days and a single dose of MTX on day 7. MTX induced kidney injury was characterized by increased serum creatinine and urea, kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1), and several histological alterations. FN ameliorated kidney function and inhibited the renal tissue injury induced by MTX. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide, and 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine were increased, whereas antioxidant defenses were diminished in the kidney of MTX-administered rats. In addition, MTX upregulated renal iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3, and decreased Bcl-2, Nrf2, and HO-1. FN suppressed oxidative stress, LPO, DNA damage, iNOS, COX-2, proinflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis, and boosted Bcl-2, antioxidants, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in MTX-administered rats. In conclusion, FN prevents MTX-induced AKI by activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and attenuates oxidative damage and inflammation. Thus, FN may represent an effective adjuvant that can prevent MTX nephrotoxicity, pending further mechanistic studies.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Trigger Liver and Kidney Injury and Fibrosis Via Altering TLR4/NF-κB, JAK2/STAT3 and Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling in Rats

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) represent a promising inorganic platform for multiple biomedical applications. Previous studies have reported MSNs-induced hepatic and renal toxicity; however, the toxic mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate MSNs-induced hepatic and nephrotoxicity and test the hypothesis that altered TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, JAK2/STAT3, and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling pathways mediate oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis induced by MSNs. Rats were administered 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg MSNs for 30 days, and samples were collected for analyses. MSNs induced functional and histologic alterations, increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide, suppressed antioxidants, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in the liver and kidney of rats. MSNs up-regulated the expression of liver and kidney TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p65, and caspase-3 and increased serum pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, MSNs activated the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, down-regulated peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), and promoted fibrosis evidenced by the increased collagen expression and deposition. In conclusion, this study conferred novel information on the role of ROS and deregulated TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, JAK2/STAT3, PPARγ, and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling pathways in MSNs hepatic and nephrotoxicity. These findings provide experimental evidence for further studies employing genetic and pharmacological strategies to evaluate the safety of MSNs for their use in nanomedicine.

Seeing the Unseen of the Combination of Two Natural Resins, Frankincense and Myrrh: Changes in Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities

For the treatment of diseases, especially chronic diseases, traditional natural drugs have more effective therapeutic advantages because of their multi-target and multi-channel characteristics. Among many traditional natural medicines, resins frankincense and myrrh have been proven to be effective in the treatment of inflammation and cancer. In the West, frankincense and myrrh have been used as incense in religious and cultural ceremonies since ancient times; in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, they are used mainly for the treatment of chronic diseases. The main chemical constituents of frankincense and myrrh are terpenoids and essential oils. Their common pharmacological effects are anti-inflammatory and anticancer. More interestingly, in traditional Chinese medicine, frankincense and myrrh have been combined as drug pairs in the same prescription for thousands of years, and their combination has a better therapeutic effect on diseases than a single drug. After the combination of frankincense and myrrh forms a blend, a series of changes take place in their chemical composition, such as the increase or decrease of the main active ingredients, the disappearance of native chemical components, and the emergence of new chemical components. At the same time, the pharmacological effects of the combination seem magically powerful, such as synergistic anti-inflammation, synergistic anticancer, synergistic analgesic, synergistic antibacterial, synergistic blood-activation, and so on. In this review, we summarize the latest research on the main chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of these two natural resins, along with chemical and pharmacological studies on the combination of the two.

Galangin Activates Nrf2 Signaling and Attenuates Oxidative Damage, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in a Rat Model of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent; however, its clinical application is limited because of its multi-organ toxicity. Galangin (Gal) is a bioactive flavonoid with promising biological activities. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effect of Gal in CP-induced rats. Rats received Gal (15, 30 and 60 mg/kg/day) for 15 days followed by a single dose of CP at day 16. Cyclophosphamide triggered liver injury characterized by elevated serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and histopathological manifestations. Increased hepatic reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and oxidative DNA damage along with declined glutathione and antioxidant enzymes were demonstrated in CP-administered rats. CP provoked hepatic nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) phosphorylation and increased mRNA abundance of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) both expression and serum levels. Gal prevented CP-induced liver injury, boosted antioxidants and suppressed oxidative stress, DNA damage, NF-κB phosphorylation and pro-inflammatory mediators. Gal diminished Bax and caspase-3, and increased B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in liver of CP-administered rats. In addition, Gal increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression and activated hepatic nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling showed by the increase in Nrf2, NAD(P)H: quinone acceptor oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in CP-administered rats. These findings suggest that Gal prevents CP hepatotoxicity through activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and attenuation of oxidative damage, inflammation and cell death. Therefore, Gal might represent a promising adjuvant therapy to prevent hepatotoxicity in patients on CP treatment.

The Carcinogenic Agent Diethylnitrosamine Induces Early Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Proliferation in Rat Liver, Stomach and Colon: Protective Effect of Ginger Extract

Background: Diethylnitrosamine (DENA), a well-known dietary carcinogen, related to cancer initiation of various organs. The present study investigated the deleterious mechanisms involved in the early destructive changes of DENA in different organs namely, liver, stomach and colon and the potential protective effect of GE against these mechanisms. Methods: Adult male albino rats were assigned into four groups. A normal control group received the vehicle, another group was injected with a single necrogenic dose of DENA (200 mg/kg, i.p) on day 21. Two groups received oral GE (108 or 216 mg/kg) daily for 28 days. Sera, liver, stomach and colon were obtained 7 days after DENA injection. Serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were detected as well as reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde, nitric oxide metabolites, interleukin 1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and nuclear factorerythroid 2-related factor2 (Nrf2) in liver, stomach and colon. Histopathological studies and immunohistochemical examination of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) were conducted. Results: DENA induced elevation in liver function enzymes with significant increase in oxidation and inflammation biomarkers and AFP while decreased levels of Nrf2 in liver, stomach and colon were detected. Histologically, DENA showed degenerative changes in hepatocytes and inflammatory foci. Inflammatory foci displayed increased expression of COX2 in immunohistochemical staining. GE-pretreatment improved liver function and restored normal GSH with significant mitigation of oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers compared to DENA-treated group. AFP was reduced by GE in both doses, while Nrf2 increased significantly. Histology and immunostaining of hepatic COX-2 were remarkably improved in GE-treated groups in a dose dependent manner. Conclusion: GE exerted a potential anti-proliferative activity against DENA in liver, stomach and colon via Nrf2 activation, whilst suppression of oxidation and inflammation.

Circular RNAs in β-cell function and type 2 diabetes-related complications: a potential diagnostic and therapeutic approach

Recent investigations have indicated that altered expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) could be associated with human diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a new discovered class of ncRNAs with unique structural characteristics that involved in several molecular and cellular functions. Exploring of the circulating circRNAs as a reliable non-invasive biomarker for monitoring and diagnosing of human diseases has grown significantly. However, the molecular functions and clinical relevance of circRNAs are not yet well clarified in T2D. Accordingly, in this review, the involvement of circRNAs in the β-cell function and T2D-related complications is highlighted. The study also shed light on the possibility of using circRNAs as a biomarker for T2D diagnosis.

Stingless bee honey protects against lipopolysaccharide induced-chronic subclinical systemic inflammation and oxidative stress by modulating Nrf2, NF-κB and p38 MAPK

Background

Epidemiological and experimental studies have extensively indicated that chronic subclinical systemic inflammation (CSSI) and oxidative stress are risk factors for several chronic diseases, including cancer, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This study examined the protective effect of stingless bee honey (SBH) supplementation against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced CSSI, pointing to the possible involvement of NF-κB, p38 MAPK and Nrf2 signaling.

Methods

CSSI was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of LPS three times per week for 28 days, and SBH (4.6 and 9.3 g/kg/day) was supplemented for 30 days.

Results

LPS-induced rats showed significant leukocytosis, and elevated serum levels of CRP, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), accompanied with diminished antioxidants. Treatment with SBH significantly ameliorated inflammatory markers, MDA and 8-OHdG, and enhanced antioxidants in LPS-induced rats. In addition, SBH decreased NF-κB p65 and p38 MAPK, and increased Nrf2 expression in the liver, kidney, heart and lung of LPS-induced rats. Furthermore, SBH prevented LPS-induced histological and functional alterations in the liver, kidney, heart and lung of rats.

Conclusion

SBH has a substantial protective role against LPS-induced CSSI in rats mediated via amelioration of inflammation, oxidative stress and NF-κB, p38 MAPK and Nrf2 signaling.

Ferulic acid protects against methotrexate nephrotoxicityviaactivation of Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling and PPARγ, and suppression of NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome axis

Ferulic acid prevents methotrexate-induced acute kidney injury by suppressing ROS/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome axis, and activating PPARγ and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling.

Moringa oleifera Leaves Extract Protects Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles-Induced Nephrotoxicity via Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Amelioration of Oxidative Stress

The efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MO) in alleviating nephrotoxicity induced by titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) was studied. Rats were divided into four groups. Group I received distilled water. Group II received TiO₂NPs. Group III received both TiO₂NPs suspension beside MO. Group IV received MO only. Kidney KIM-1, NF-кB TNF-α, and HSP-70 expression were significantly upregulated while both Nrf2 and HO-1were significantly downregulated in TiO₂NPs-treated rats. MO decreases expression of KIM-1, NF-кB, TNF-α, and HSP-70. In addition, MO has markedly upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. In conclusion, MO can inhibit nephrotoxicity by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation. These effects are suggested to be mediated by activating Nrf2/HO-1.The biochemical analysis and histopathological finding reinforced these results. These data support the antioxidant properties' nutraceutical role of MO against TiO₂NPs-induced toxicity.

Pathophysiological mechanisms of diabetic cardiomyopathy and the therapeutic potential of epigallocatechin-3-gallate

Cardiovascular complications are considered one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among diabetic patients. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a type of cardiovascular damage presents in diabetic patients independent of the coexistence of ischemic heart disease or hypertension. It is characterized by impaired diastolic relaxation time, myocardial dilatation and hypertrophy and reduced systolic and diastolic functions of the left ventricle. Molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological changes in the diabetic heart are most likely multifactorial and include, but not limited to, oxidative/nitrosative stress, increased advanced glycation end products, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation and cell death. The aim of this review is to address the major molecular mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of DCM. In addition, this review provides studies conducted to determine the pharmacological effects of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the major polyphenol in green tea, focusing on its therapeutic potential against the processes involved in the pathogenesis and progression of DCM. EGCG has been shown to exert several potential therapeutic properties both in vitro and in vivo. Given its therapeutic potential, EGCG might be a promising drug candidate to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with DCM and other diabetes complications.

Animal models for hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents ~90% of all cases of primary liver cancer and occurs predominantly in patients with underlying chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Establishing appropriate animal models for HCC is required for basic and translational studies, especially the models that can recapitulate one of the human disease settings. Current animal models can be categorized as chemically-induced, genetically-engineered, xenograft, or a combination of these with each other or with a metabolic insult. A single approach to resemble human HCC in animals is not sufficient. Combining pathogenic insults in animal models may more realistically recapitulate the multiple etiologic agents occurring in humans. Combining chemical injury with metabolic disorder or alcohol consumption in mice reduces the time taken to hepatocarcinogenesis. Genetically-engineering weak activation of HCC-promoting pathways combined with disease-specific injury models will possibly mimic the pathophysiology of human HCC in distinct clinical settings.

Human circular RNA‑0054633 regulates high glucose‑induced vascular endothelial cell dysfunction through the microRNA‑218/roundabout 1 and microRNA‑218/heme oxygenase‑1 axes

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relative regulation of human circular RNA‑0054633 (hsa_circ_0054633), microRNA‑218 (miR‑218), roundabout 1 (ROBO1) and heme oxygenase‑1 (HO‑1) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in high glucose conditions. Initially, the expression of hsa_circ_0054633 in HUVECs was detected in high glucose conditions by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Next, a small interfering RNA against hsa_circ_0054633 was constructed to investigate the function of jsa_circ_0054633 in HUVECs by transwell migration, cell counting kit‑8, flow cytometry and tube formation assays. In addition, the effect of hsa_circ_0054633 on the expression levels of ROBO1, HO‑1 and vascular endothelial growth factor were examined. The regulation effects of hsa_circ_0054633 on high glucose‑induced HUVEC proliferation, migration, and angiopoiesis were also analyzed. Bioinformatics analysis and dual‑luciferase assay were then used to confirm the direct or specific regulation of hsa_circ_0054633, miR‑218, ROBO1 and HO‑1. It was observed that high glucose levels increased the expression of hsa_circ_0054633, while downregulation of hsa_circRNA‑0054633 increased the high glucose‑induced endothelial cell dysfunction, including proliferation, migration and angiopoiesis suppression. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the expression of circRNA‑0054633 was able to inhibit miR‑218 expression, which was clarified by the dual‑luciferase assay. It was also demonstrated that downregulating the expression of miR‑218 inhibited the high glucose‑induced endothelial cell dysfunction by promoting the expression of ROBO1 and HO‑1. These results suggest that the expression of hsa_circRNA‑0054633 has a protective effect against high glucose‑induced endothelial cell dysfunction by targeting ROBO1 and HO‑1.

Investigation of LEP and LEPR polymorphisms with the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: a case-control study in Eastern Chinese Han population

Background

Leptin (LEP) and LEP receptor (LEPR) polymorphisms may be associated with the development of cancer.

Methods

In this study, we selected five functional LEP and LEPR single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and conducted a case–control study to determine the relationship of LEP and LEPR polymorphisms with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in Eastern Chinese Han population. There were 584 HCC cases and 923 cancer-free controls included in our study. HCC patients and controls were fully matched by age and sex. SNPscan™ genotyping method was used to analyze the genotyping of LEP rs2167270 G>A, rs7799039 A>G, LEPR rs6588147 G>A, rs1137100 G>A, and rs1137101 G>A SNPs.

Results

We found that LEP rs7799039 A>G and rs2167270 G>A polymorphisms were associated with the susceptibility of HCC in this population (LEP rs7799039 A>G: GG vs AA: adjusted odds ratio [OR]=2.03, 95% CI, 1.22–3.38, P=0.006 and GG vs AA/AG: adjusted OR=1.97, 95% CI, 1.20–3.22, P=0.007; rs2167270 G>A: AA vs GG: adjusted OR=2.03, 95% CI, 1.10–3.75, P=0.024 and AA vs GG/GA: adjusted OR=2.01, 95% CI, 1.10–3.68, P=0.023). However, LEPR rs6588147 G>A polymorphism decreased the risk of HCC (GA vs GG: adjusted OR=0.62, 95% CI, 0.45–0.86, P=0.005 and AA/GA vs GG: adjusted OR=0.64, 95% CI, 0.47–0.88, P=0.007).

Conclusion

This case–control study highlights that LEP rs7799039 A>G and rs2167270 G>A polymorphisms increase the susceptibility to HCC; however, LEPR rs6588147 G>A polymorphism may be a protective factor for HCC in Eastern Chinese Han population.

Umbelliferone prevents oxidative stress, inflammation and hematological alterations, and modulates glutamate-nitric oxide-cGMP signaling in hyperammonemic rats

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious neuropsychiatric complication that occurs as a result of liver failure. Umbelliferone (UMB; 7-hydroxycoumarin) is a natural product with proven hepatoprotective activity; however, nothing has yet been reported on its protective effect against hyperammonemia, the main culprit behind the symptoms of HE. Here, we evaluated the effect of UMB against ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl)-induced hyperammonemia, oxidative stress, inflammation and hematological alterations in rats. We demonstrated the modulatory role of UMB on the glutamate-nitric oxide (NO)-cGMP pathways in the cerebrum of rats. Rats received intraperitoneal injections of NH₄Cl (3 times/week) for 8 weeks and concomitantly received 50 mg/kg UMB. NH₄Cl-induced rats showed significantly elevated blood ammonia and liver function markers. Lipid peroxidation and NO were increased in the liver and cerebrum of rats while the antioxidant defenses were declined. UMB significantly reduced blood ammonia, liver function markers, lipid peroxidation and NO, and enhanced the antioxidant defenses in NH₄Cl-induced rats. UMB significantly prevented anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia and prolongation of PT and aPTT. Hyperammonemic rats showed elevated levels of cerebral TNF-α, IL-1β and glutamine as well as increased activity and expression of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, effects that were significantly reversed by UMB. In addition, UMB down-regulated nitric oxide synthase and soluble guanylate cyclase in the cerebrum of hyperammonemic rats. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that UMB protects against hyperammonemia via attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation. UMB prevents hyperammonemia associated hematological alterations and therefore represents a promising protective agent against the deleterious effects of excess ammonia.

Health-related effects and improving extractability of cereal arabinoxylans

Arabinoxylans (AXs) are major dietary fibers. They are composed of backbone chains of β-(1-4)-linked xylose residues to which α-l-arabinose are linked in the second and/or third carbon positions. Recently, AXs have attracted a great deal of attention because of their biological activities such as their immunomodulatory potential. Extraction of AXs has some difficulties; therefore, various methods have been used to increase the extractability of AXs with varying degrees of success, such as alkaline, enzymatic, mechanical extraction. However, some of these treatments have been reported to be either expensive, such as enzymatic treatments, or produce hazardous wastes and are non-environmentally friendly, such as alkaline treatments. On the other hand, mechanical assisted extraction, especially extrusion cooking, is an innovative pre-treatment that has been used to increase the solubility of AXs. The aim of the current review article is to point out the health-related effects and to discuss the current research on the extraction methods of AXs.

Weikangning therapy in functional dyspepsia and the protective role of Nrf2

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a non-organic gastrointestinal disorder that has a marked negative impact on quality of life. Compared with conventional pharmacological therapies, the traditional Chinese medicine weikangning (WKN) is a safe and effective treatment for FD. The present study aimed to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the efficacy of WKN. The effect of different concentrations of WKN on the proliferation of the human gastric mucosal epithelial cell line GES-1 was assessed. The optimal WKN concentration to promote cell proliferation was determined, and this concentration was used to examine the effect of WKN compared with a domperidone-treated positive control group on the antioxidant capacity of GES-1 cells. The effect of WKN treatment on the growth and antioxidant activity of GES-1 cells was also assessed following nuclear factor erythroid 2 like 2 (Nrf2) knockdown. The optimal WKN dose for promoting cell growth was determined to be 0.025 mg/ml; at this concentration the expression of the antioxidant proteins glutathione S-transferase P and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were significantly elevated (P<0.0001). Furthermore, the amount of reduced glutathione and activity of SOD2 were significantly increased (P<0.0001 and P<0.01, respectively), and malondialdehyde content was significantly decreased, compared with the controls (P<0.001). With WKN treatment, the transcription of Nrf2 and its downstream genes were significantly upregulated (P<0.01), and the level and nuclear distribution of Nrf2 protein was also markedly increased. Following Nrf2 silencing, the protective antioxidant effects of WKN treatment were impaired and GES-1 cell proliferation decreased. The results of the present study suggest that the efficacy of WKN in protecting gastric mucosal epithelial cells in FD is antioxidant-dependent and mediated by Nrf2 activation.

Commiphora molmol Modulates Glutamate-Nitric Oxide-cGMP and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 Pathways and Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Hematological Alterations in Hyperammonemic Rats

Hyperammonemia is a serious complication of liver disease and may lead to encephalopathy and death. This study investigated the effects of Commiphora molmol resin on oxidative stress, inflammation, and hematological alterations in ammonium chloride- (NH₄Cl-) induced hyperammonemic rats, with an emphasis on the glutamate-NO-cGMP and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 signaling pathways. Rats received NH₄Cl and C. molmol for 8 weeks. NH₄Cl-induced rats showed significant increase in blood ammonia, liver function markers, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Concurrent supplementation of C. molmol significantly decreased circulating ammonia, liver function markers, and TNF-α in hyperammonemic rats. C. molmol suppressed lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide and enhanced the antioxidant defenses in the liver, kidney, and cerebrum of hyperammonemic rats. C. molmol significantly upregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 and decreased glutamine and nitric oxide synthase, soluble guanylate cyclase, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase expression in the cerebrum of NH₄Cl-induced hyperammonemic rats. Hyperammonemia was also associated with hematological and coagulation system alterations. These alterations were reversed by C. molmol. Our findings demonstrated that C. molmol attenuates ammonia-induced liver injury, oxidative stress, inflammation, and hematological alterations. This study points to the modulatory effect of C. molmol on glutamate-NO-cGMP and Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 pathways in hyperammonemia. Therefore, C. molmol might be a promising protective agent against hyperammonemia.