Protective effect of rutin against carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in mouse kidney associated with the ceramide, MAPKs, p53 and calpain activities

Melatonin ameliorates multiorgan injuries induced by severe acute pancreatitis in mice by regulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a complicated inflammatory reaction that impacts the pancreas, often resulting in damage to numerous organs. This disorder encompasses a range of processes such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and pancreatitis. The hormone melatonin (MT) is primarily secreted by the pineal gland and plays a crucial role in mitigating inflammation, countering the harmful effects of free radicals, and regulating oxidative stress. The aim of this research was to investigate the potential protective impact and the underlying mechanism of melatonin in mice afflicted with SAP. The biochemical and histological assessments unequivocally demonstrated that melatonin effectively inhibited necrosis, infiltration, edema and cell death in pancreatic tissues, thereby suppressing acute pancreatitis. Notably, melatonin also alleviated the consequent harm to distant organs, notably the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Furthermore, both preventive and therapeutic administration of melatonin prompted nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation followed by Nrf2 target gene expression. Nrf2 initiates the activation of antioxidant genes, thereby providing defense against oxidative stress. Conversely, Nrf2 reduction may contribute to impaired antioxidant protection in SAP. The beneficial impact of Nrf2 on antioxidants was absent in Nrf2-knockout mice, leading to the accumulation of LDH and exacerbation of cell death. This deterioration in both pancreatitis and injuries in distant organs intensified significantly. The results indicate that melatonin has an enhanced ability to protect against multiorgan damage caused by SAP, which is accomplished through the increase in Nrf2 expression. Additionally, Nrf2 initiates the activation of antioxidant genes that offer defense against cell death.

Effect of Selenium nanoparticles on Paraquat-induced-neuroinflammation and oligodendocyte modulation: Implication of the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Paraquat (PQ), is an extensively used herbicide and is a well-established powerful neurotoxin. However, the mechanism underlying its neurotoxicity still needs further investigation.

AIM OF WORK

The study investigated the pathogenesis of PQ-induced neuroinflammation of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNPC) and cerebellum and evaluated the potential effect of selenium nanoparticles (SeN) against such neurotoxicity.

METHODS

Thirty-six mice were randomly divided into three groups; Control group, PQ group: mice received PQ 10 mg/kg (i.p), and PQ + SeN group; mice received PQ in addition to oral SeN 0.1 mg/kg. All regimens were administered for 14 days. The mice's brains were processed for biochemical, molecular, histological, and immune-histochemical assessment.

RESULTS

SeN increased the SNPC and cerebellum antioxidants (reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase 1) while decreasing malondialdehyde concentration. Also, SeN increased the anti-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-10 and decreased the pro-inflammatory IL-1β and -6 along with improving the angiogenic nitric oxide and reducing caspase-1. Further, western blots of phosphorylated Janus kinase (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription3 (STAT3) proteins showed a significant decline. Those improving effects of SeN on SNPC, and cerebellum were supported by the significantly preserved dopaminergic and Purkinje neurons, the enhanced myelin fibers on Luxol fast blue staining, and the marked increase in Olig-2, Platelet-derived growth factor-alpha, and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity.

CONCLUSION

SeN could mitigate PQ-induced neurotoxicity via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties.

Metformin modulates autophagic pathway in renal fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in adult male albino rats

BACKGROUNDS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem. All progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride (including vapor) can destroy the kidneys. Autophagy played an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of organs. Impaired autophagy was frequently associated with renal damage and fibrosis. Recent data suggests that metformin protects against a variety of kidney disorders.

AIM

To investigate the protective role of metformin on carbon tetrachloride induced renal damage via autophagy pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups (10 rats, each); Group 1: control group. Group 2: olive oil group received olive oil 1.5 mg/kg twice weekly S.C for 12 weeks. Group 3: The ccl4 group, the rats were received ccl4 1.5 mg/kg twice weekly S.C for 12 weeks. Group 4: CCL4 and Metformin group received concomitant treatment of CCL4, 1.5 mg/kg twice weekly S.C and 100 mg/kg/day Metformin orally for 12 weeks. After sacrifice, kidneys were taken from all animal groups and processed for light and electron microscopy, immunological studies and biochemical tests. Statistical analysis was done.

RESULTS

Administration of ccl4 resulted in histopathological changes in the kidney tissue in the form of areas of tissue destruction, inflammatory cell infiltration, congestion and fibrosis. Ultrastructurally, irregular thickening of GBM was observed. Improvement was noticed with concomitant treatment of ccl4 with metformin.

CONCLUSION

Metformin administration can modulate histological and biochemical effects in the renal tissue induced by of ccl4.

Protective effect of chicory and/or artichoke leaves extracts on carbon tetrachloride and gamma-irradiation-induced chronic nephrotoxicity in rats

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is in progress that causes kidney failure, leading to global problems. This manuscript investigated the nephroprotective effects of chicory (CLE) and/or artichoke (ALE) leaves extracts on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) and gamma-irradiation (Rad)-induced chronic nephrotoxicity in rats. Rats were divided into 10 groups (10 animals/group): group 1: control, groups 2-7 rats were treated with CLE, ALE, CLE/ALE, CCl4 , Rad, and CCl4 /Rad, respectively. Groups 8 to 10, rats were intoxicated with CCl4 /Rad, and treated with CLE, ALE, and CLE/ALE extracts, respectively, for 4 weeks. The data demonstrated that CCl4 administration or Rad exposure induced high levels of urea and creatinine, with low levels of total protein and albumin in the serum. However, high levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ), some pro-inflammatory markers such as interleukins (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6), TNF-α, NF-κB, the fibrotic marker; TGF-β1, calcium, and copper, low contents of reduced glutathione (GSH), iron, and zinc, and suppression of the antioxidant enzymes' activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were observed. In addition, the Wnt and β-catenin protein expression ratios were up-regulated in the kidney tissues of the CCl4 , and Rad intoxicated animals. However, the combined treatment CCl4 /Rad augmented these measurements. On the other hand, CLE, ALE, and CLE/ALE treatments demonstrated nephroprotection in the kidney tissues of CCl4 /Rad intoxicated animals, in the order of CLE/ALE>ALE>CLE by ameliorating the investigated parameters. Kidney tissues' histopathological examinations confirmed these results. In conclusion, CLE and/or ALE demonstrated nephroprotection against CCl4 /Rad co-toxicity mediated by down-regulation of renal Wnt/β-catenin protein expressions.

Rutin ameliorate PFOA induced renal damage by reducing oxidative stress and improving lipid metabolism

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent environmental pollutant that can accumulate in the kidneys and eventually cause kidney damage. Rutin (RUTIN) is a natural flavonoid with multiple biological activities, and its use in against kidney damage has been widely studied in recent years. It is not yet known whether rutin protects against kidney damage caused by PFOA. In this study, 30 ICR mice were randomly divided into three groups: CTRL group, PFOA group and PFOA+RUTIN group. The mice were fed continuously by gavage for 28 days. Renal pathological changes were assessed by HE and PASM staining, and serum renal function and lipid indicators were measured. RNA-seq and enrichment analysis using GO, KEGG and PPI to detect differential expression of genes in treatment groups. Kidney tissue protein expression was determined by Western blot. Research has shown that rutin can improve glomerular and tubular structural damage, and increase serum CREA, HDL-C levels and decrease LDH, LDL-C levels. The expression of AQP1 and ACOT1 was up-regulated after rutin treatment. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that PFOA and rutin affect the transcriptional expression of genes related to lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, and may affected by PI3K-Akt, PPAR, NRF2/KEAP1 signaling pathways. In conclusion, rutin ameliorated renal damage caused by PFOA exposure, and this protective effect may be exerted by ameliorating oxidative stress and regulating lipid metabolism.

Rutin ameliorates perfluorooctanoic acid-induced testicular injury in mice by reducing oxidative stress and improving lipid metabolism

This study investigated the protective effect of rutin on reproductive and blood-testis barrier (BTB) damage induced by perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exposure. In this study, male ICR mice were randomly divided into three groups, Ctrl group (ddH2O, 5 mL/kg), PFOA group (PFOA, 20 mg/kg/d, 5 mL/kg), PFOA + rutin group (PFOA, 20 mg/kg/d, 5 mL/kg; rutin, 20 mg/kg/d, 5 mL/kg). Mice were exposed to PFOA for 28 days by gavage once daily in the presence or absence of rutin. Histopathological observations demonstrated that rutin treatment during PFOA exposure can reduce structural damage to testis and epididymis such as atrophy of spermatogenic epithelium and stenosis of epididymal lumen, while increase in the number and layers of spermatogenic cells. Biochemical detection demonstrated that rutin can reduce 8-hydroxy-2'-desoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentration in the serum and testis tissues. Rutin can also ameliorate glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) content, and reduce malondialdehyde (MDA) and total cholesterol (TC) content in testis tissues. Biotin tracking immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that rutin can ameliorate BTB structural damage during PFOA exposure. Rutin ameliorated the stress expression of tight junction proteins occludin and claudin-11. In conclusion, our findings suggested that rutin has a degree of protection in reproductive and BTB damage, which could put forward a new perspective on the application of rutin to prevent reproductive damage.

Arctium lappa L. root polysaccharides ameliorate CCl4-induced acute liver injury by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis

In this study, water-soluble polysaccharides purified from burdock root were used to intervene in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) of BRL3A hepatocytes and rats. Our results indicated that CCl4 significantly inhibited hepatocyte viability and upregulated the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), and the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. However, Arctium lappa L. root polysaccharides (ALP) could effectively ameliorate liver function and histopathology, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers. In addition, ALP reduced the expression of apoptotic markers and promoted the proliferation of damaged hepatocytes. In conclusion, ALP possesses a hepatoprotective effect mediated by attenuating oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in ALI.

Diepoxybutane induces the p53-dependent transactivation of the CCL4 gene that mediates apoptosis in exposed human lymphoblasts

Diepoxybutane (DEB) is the most toxic metabolite of the environmental chemical 1,3-butadiene. We previously demonstrated the occurrence of DEB-induced p53-mediated apoptosis in human lymphoblasts. The p53 protein functions as a master transcriptional regulator in orchestrating the genomic response to a variety of stress signals. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that C-C chemokine ligand 4 (CCL4) gene expression was elevated in a p53-dependent manner in DEB-exposed p53-proficient TK6 cells, but not in DEB-exposed p53-deficient NH32 cells. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine whether the CCL4 gene is a transcriptional target of p53 and deduce its role in DEB-induced apoptosis in human lymphoblasts. Endogenous and exogenous wild-type p53 transactivated the activity of the CCL4 promoter in DEB-exposed lymphoblasts, but mutant p53 activity on this promoter was reduced by ∼80% under the same experimental conditions. Knockdown of the upregulated CCL4 mRNA levels in p53-proficient TK6 cells inhibited DEB-induced apoptosis by ∼45%-50%. Collectively, these observations demonstrate for the first time that the CCL4 gene is upregulated by wild-type p53 at the transcriptional level, and this upregulation mediates apoptosis in DEB-exposed human lymphoblasts.

Nootkatone Supplementation Attenuates Carbon Tetrachloride Exposure-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice

Nootkatone (NKT), a major ingredient of Alpinia oxyphylla, exhibited potential nephroprotective effects; however, the precise molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study aimed to study the nephroprotective effects of NKT and the underlying mechanisms in a mouse model. Our results showed that NKT pretreatment at the doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg per day for 7 days significantly attenuates carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced increases of serum BUN and CRE and kidney pathology injury. NKT pretreatment also markedly inhibited oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and the activation of caspases-9 and -3 in kidneys of mice exposed to CCl₄. Meanwhile, NKT pretreatment downregulated the expression of NOX4, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α proteins and NO levels in the kidney tissues. Moreover, NKT pretreatment upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNAs, and downregulated the expression of NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS mRNAs in the kidneys of mice, compared to those in the CCl₄ alone treatment group. In conclusion, our results reveal that NKT supplementation could protect against CCl₄ exposure-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the kidneys by inhibiting NOX4 and NF-κB pathways and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Our current study highlights the therapeutic application of NKT for kidney diseases.

Mori fructus aqueous extracts attenuate carbon tetrachloride-induced renal injury via the Nrf2 pathway and intestinal flora

Mori fructus aqueous extracts (MFAEs) have been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years with the function of strengthening the liver and tonifying the kidney. However, its inner mechanism to alleviative renal injury is unclear. To investigate the attenuation of MFAEs on nephrotoxicity and uncover its potential molecular mechanism, we established a nephrotoxicity model induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). The mice were randomly divided into control group, CCl₄ model group (10% CCl₄), CCl₄ + low and high MFAEs groups (10% CCl₄ + 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg MFAEs). We found that MFAEs decreased the kidney index of mice, restored the pathological changes of renal structure induced by CCl₄, reduced cystatin C, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule 1 (Kim-1) blood urea nitrogen and creatinine contents in serum, promoted the nuclear transportation of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid derived 2 like 2), elevated the expression of HO-1 (heme oxygenase 1), GPX4 (glutathione peroxidase 4), SLC7A11 (solute carrier family 7 member 11), ZO-1 (zonula occludens-1) and Occludin, suppressed the expression of Keap1 (kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1), HMGB1 (High Mobility Group Protein 1), ACSL4 (acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4) and TXNIP (thioredoxin interacting protein), upregulated the flora of Akkermansia, Anaerotruncus, Clostridium_sensu_stricto, Ihubacter, Alcaligenes, Dysosmobacter, and downregulated the flora of Clostridium_XlVa, Helicobacter, Paramuribaculum. Overlapped with Disbiome database, Clostridium_XlVa, Akkermansia and Anaerotruncus may be the potential genera treated with renal injury. It indicated that MFAEs could ameliorate kidney injury caused by CCl₄ via Nrf2 signaling.

Water-Soluble Tomato Concentrate, a Potential Antioxidant Supplement, Can Attenuate Platelet Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Crossover Clinical Trial

Increased oxidative stress and platelet apoptotic in middle-aged and elderly adults are important risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Therefore, it is of great significance to control the oxidative stress and platelet apoptosis in middle-aged and elderly adults. Previous acute clinical trials have shown that water-soluble tomato concentrate (WSTC) from fresh tomatoes could exert antiplatelet benefits after 3 h or 7 h, but its effects on platelet apoptosis and oxidative stress are still unknown, especially in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults. This current study aimed to examine the efficacies of WSTC on platelet apoptosis and oxidative stress in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults via a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial (10 weeks in total). A total of 52 healthy middle-aged and elderly adults completed this trial. The results showed that WSTC could increase the serum total antioxidant capacity levels (p < 0.05) and decrease the serum malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05) after a 4-week WSTC supplementation in healthy middle-aged and elderly adults. Platelet endogenous reactive oxygen species generation (p < 0.05), mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation (p < 0.05) and phosphatidylserine exposure (p < 0.05) were attenuated. In addition, our present study also found that WSTC could inhibit platelet aggregation and activation induced by collagen or ADP after intervention (p < 0.05), while having no effects on adverse events (p > 0.05). The results suggest that WSTC can inhibit oxidative stress and its related platelet apoptosis, which may provide a basis for the primary prevention of WSTC in ASCVD.

Protective mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine guizhi fuling pills against carbon tetrachloride-induced kidney damage is through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and regulating the intestinal flora

BACKGROUND

Chemical or drug-induced kidney damage has been recognized as a critical cause of kidney failure. The oxidative stress, inflammation, and imbalance of intestinal flora caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) play a fundamental role in chronic kidney damage. Guizhi Fuling pills (GZFL) is a traditional formula consisting of five traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, which can promote blood circulation and improve kidney function. The underlying mechanisms of GZFL improving kidney damage are not fully understood yet.

AIM

The current study aimed to explore the effects of GZFL on CCl₄-induced kidney damage and intestinal microbiota in mice.

METHODS

Male ICR mice were intraperitoneally administered with 20% CCl₄ (mixed in a ratio of 1:4 in soybean oil) twice a week, for 4 weeks to induce kidney damage. Creatinine (CRE), urea nitrogen, antioxidant enzymes, and inflammatory cytokines were measured and the histology of the kidney, jejunum, and colon examination to assess kidney and intestinal damage. The expressions of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) family members, nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in kidney tissues, and the tight junction proteins in colonic tissues were detected by Western blot. The gut microbiota was analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

RESULTS

GZFL treatment decreased the serum CRE and urea nitrogen levels. Moreover, GZFL reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased antioxidant enzyme activities in kidney and colonic tissues. GZFL improved the kidney, jejunum, and colon histology. Furthermore, GZFL inhibited the expressions of NLRP3, ASC, and cleaved-Caspase-1, while Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, GCLM, and tight junction proteins were increased. The dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota improved after GZFL treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that GZFL could improve kidney damage, which might be mainly via the integrated regulations of the Nrf2 pathway, NLRP3 inflammasome, and composition of intestinal microbiota.

Histomorphological and ultrastructural cadmium-induced kidney injuries and precancerous lesions in rats and screening for biomarkers

Long-term exposure to cadmium (Cd) can severely damage the kidney, where orally absorbed Cd accumulates. However, the molecular mechanisms of Cd-induced kidney damage, especially the early biomarkers of Cd-induced renal carcinogenesis, are unclear. In the present study, we established a rat kidney injury model by intragastric administration of Cd to evaluate the morphological and biochemical aspects of kidney injury. We randomly divided Sprague-Dawley rats into control, low Cd (3 mg/kg), and high Cd (6 mg/kg) groups and measured biochemical indices associated with renal toxicity after 2, 4, and 8 weeks of treatment. The Cd-exposed mice had significantly higher Cd concentrations in blood and renal tissues as well as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG), urinary protein excretion, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels. Furthermore, histopathological and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations revealed structural disruption of renal tubules and glomeruli after 8 weeks of exposure to the high Cd regimen. Besides, microarray technology experiments showed that Cd increased the expression of genes related to the chemical carcinogenesis pathway in kidney tissue. Finally, combining the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of the Cd carcinogenesis pathway genes with the microarray and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) results revealed two overlapping genes, CYP1B1 and UGT2B. Therefore, the combined molecular and bioinformatics experiments’ results suggest that CYP1B1 and UGT2B are biomarkers of Cd-induced kidney injury with precancerous lesions.

Ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates LPS-induced chronic renal injury by inhibiting NOX4-NLRP3 signaling in mice

Chronic renal injury (CRI) is a common pathological damage in chronic renal disease, and the therapeutic options for preventing its progression are limited at present. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) is reported to have a protective effect on renal injury by improving oxidative stress and inflammation. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plays important roles in inducing inflammatory and high-dose LPS is often used to perform acute renal injury. However, little is known about the effect of low-dose LPS on CRI, and the protective effect of Rg1 against chronic LPS-induced CRI. Here, we reported the protective effect and mechanism of Rg1 against LPS-induced CRI in mice. In this study, the results demonstrated that low-dose LPS (0.25 mg/kg) exposure for 14 days significantly induced renal function impairment and renal injury and fibrosis. Meanwhile, LPS exposure significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) and NLRP3 inflammasome expression in renal cortex. However, treatment with Rg1, tempol (a superoxide dismutase mimetic), and apocynin (a NOX inhibitor) significantly improved renal function impairment and renal fibrosis, and significantly decreased the levels of TGF-β, IL-1β, KIM-1, β-Gal, and collagen IV in the kidneys. And Rg1 treatment also significantly reduced ROS generation and inhibited the activation of NOX4 and NLRP3 inflammasome. Overall, these results suggest that Rg1 treatment can ameliorate LPS-induced chronic kidney injury and renal fibrosis, the mechanisms may be involved in reducing NOX2-mediated oxidative stress and inhibiting NLRP1 inflammasome.

Ceramides and Acute Kidney Injury

Altered lipid metabolism is a characteristic feature and potential driving factor of acute kidney injury (AKI). Of the lipids that accumulate in injured renal tissues, ceramides are potent regulators of metabolism and cell fate. Up-regulation of ceramide synthesis is a common feature shared across several AKI etiologies in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, ceramide accumulation is an early event in the natural history of AKI that precedes cell death and organ dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that inhibition of ceramide accumulation may improve renal outcomes in several models of AKI. This review examines the landscape of ceramide metabolism and regulation in the healthy and injured kidney. Furthermore, we discuss the body of literature regarding ceramides as therapeutic targets for AKI and consider potential mechanisms by which ceramides drive kidney pathogenesis.

A Rheostat of Ceramide and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate as a Determinant of Oxidative Stress-Mediated Kidney Injury

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulate sphingolipid metabolism, including enzymes that generate ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), and a ROS-antioxidant rheostat determines the metabolism of ceramide-S1P. ROS induce ceramide production by activating ceramide-producing enzymes, leading to apoptosis, while they inhibit S1P production, which promotes survival by suppressing sphingosine kinases (SphKs). A ceramide-S1P rheostat regulates ROS-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptotic/anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins and signaling pathways, leading to apoptosis, survival, cell proliferation, inflammation and fibrosis in the kidney. Ceramide inhibits the mitochondrial respiration chain and induces ceramide channel formation and the closure of voltage-dependent anion channels, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, altered Bcl-2 family protein expression, ROS generation and disturbed calcium homeostasis. This activates ceramide-induced signaling pathways, leading to apoptosis. These events are mitigated by S1P/S1P receptors (S1PRs) that restore mitochondrial function and activate signaling pathways. SphK1 promotes survival and cell proliferation and inhibits inflammation, while SphK2 has the opposite effect. However, both SphK1 and SphK2 promote fibrosis. Thus, a ceramide-SphKs/S1P rheostat modulates oxidant-induced kidney injury by affecting mitochondrial function, ROS production, Bcl-2 family proteins, calcium homeostasis and their downstream signaling pathways. This review will summarize the current evidence for a role of interaction between ROS-antioxidants and ceramide-SphKs/S1P and of a ceramide-SphKs/S1P rheostat in the regulation of oxidative stress-mediated kidney diseases.

Phenolics Profile and Protective Effect on Injuried HUVEC Cells of Epicarp Extracts from Kadsura coccinea

This study evaluated the phenolics profile and the antioxidative properties of K. coccinea fruits epicarp. A total of 13 phenolic compounds (six phenolic acids, four anthocyanins, two flavonols, and one flavone) were identified by ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spetrometry(UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS). Two anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-xylosylrutinoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside, comprise 30.89~74.76% and 13.90~46.17% of the total amount of anthocyanins in K. Coccinea. Cytoprotective effect results evidenced that pretreatment of Human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs) with Kadsura. coccinea fruits’ epicarp phenolic extracts at the concentrations of 50–200 µg/mL improved the cell viability after exposure to H₂O₂ significantly, and inhibited malonaldehyde(MDA) and reactive oxygen species(ROS) overproduction, as well as enhancing the content of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione Reductase (GR. This study proved that K. coccinea is a natural resource of phenolics rich with potential antioxidant ability, which may be valuable for developing nutraceuticals and dietary supplements.

The protective effect of rutin against lipopolysaccharide induced acute lung injury in mice based on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic combination model

Rutin is a flavonoid compound with many pharmacological activities, including antioxidation, anti-inflammation and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection. However, there are great limitations in clinical application in view of its poor solubility and slow absorption in vivo. In this study, a pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynomic model was adopted to study the correlation of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynomics of rutin in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury mice. Rutin was intragastrically administered continuously for 5 days at a dose of 200 mg/kg/d, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic indicators were measured every day after administration, including the blood concentration of rutin, the W/D ratio of lungs, the nitric oxide content and the expression levels of TLR4, TRAF6, IκB and P-IκB proteins. The results indicated that rutin can exert an anti-inflammatory protective effect by improving lung tissue injury, significantly decreasing the synthesis of the inflammatory mediator nitric oxide, and inhibiting the protein expression levels of TLR4, TRAF6 and P-IκB. The absorption of rutin conformed to a one-compartment model with the pharmacokinetic parameters as follows: t_1/2α= 9.76 h, t_1/2β= 19.44 h, T_max= 24.00 h, C_max= 22.65 μg/ml and AUC_(0-t)= 518.58 μg/ml·h. A PK-PD combination model was established to fit the optimal administration time of rutin with a one-compartment-Sigmod Emax model connected to the effect site. Meanwhile,the PK-PD combination model was a better approach for evaluating the relationships between the five pharmacodynamic indicators and the pharmacokinetic characteristics of rutin. The correlation between the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of rutin was quantitatively analysed to provide a theoretical basis for the research and development of new anti-inflammatory drugs in clinical practice.

Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects of ganoderic acid A on carbon tetrachloride induced nephrotoxicity by regulating the Trx/TrxR and JAK/ROCK pathway

Ganoderic acid A (GAA), one of the major triterpenoid components extracted from Ganoderma mushroom has been shown to possess numerous important pharmacological activities. The present study was aimed to investigate the mechanisms of GAA on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced kidney inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress in mice. The male mice were treated with 25 and 50 mg/mg GAA after stimulated with CCl4. Our results showed that GAA improved renal damage by decreasing the serum levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid and alleviating kidney fibrosis. GAA ameliorated CCl4-induced indices of inflammation. GAA suppressed oxidative stress by regulating the glutathione antioxidant system and the thioredoxin antioxidant system. GAA increased the activations of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), Trx, GSH, SOD, GPx. Furthermore, GAA supplementation inhibited the JAK and STAT3 pathway. GAA inhibited the activations of RhoA, ROCK, NF-κB, TGF-β and Smad3. Thus, this study demonstrated that GAA possesses immune-protective properties through regulating the Trx/TrxR, JAK2/STAT3 and RhoA/ROCK pathways.

Effect of Concomitant Hydroxyurea Therapy with Rutin and Gallic Acid: Integration of Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Approaches

Hydroxyurea (HU) is the first-ever approved drug by USFDA for sickle cell anemia (SCA). However, its treatment is associated with severe side effects like myelosuppression. Current studies are focused on the supplementation therapy for symptomatic management of SCA. In the present study, we aimed to explore rutin's and gallic acid's potential individually, for concomitant therapy with HU using pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic approaches since there is no such precedent till date. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies of HU in rats showed that rutin could be safely co-administered with HU, while gallic acid significantly raised the plasma concentration of HU. Both the phytochemicals did not have any marked inhibitory effect on urease but have considerable effects on horseradish peroxidase enzyme. The experimental phytoconstituents displayed a very low propensity to cause in vitro hemolysis. Gallic acid markedly enhanced the HU-induced decrease in lymphocyte proliferation. A substantial improvement by rutin or gallic acid was observed in HU-induced reduction of the main hematological parameters in rats. Combined treatment of HU with rutin and gallic acid reduced serum levels of both IL-6 and IL-17A. Overall, both rutin and gallic acid are found to have promising phytotherapy potential with HU. Further exploration needs to be done on both candidates for use as phytotherapeutics for SCA.

Ceramide induces the apoptosis of non‑small cell lung cancer cells through the Txnip/Trx1 complex

Ceramide is a biologically active sphingomyelin that inhibits cell growth and proliferation. In previous studies, it was demonstrated that the use of lipopolysaccharides induces acid sphingomyelinases to produce ceramide, promoting lung cancer cell apoptosis; however, the specific mechanisms of this action remain unclear. Thioredoxin‑interacting protein (Txnip) plays an important role in the signal transmission of redox reactions inside and outside the cell. Thus, it was hypothesized that ceramide induces apoptosis in lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549 and PC9) by modulating the Txnip/Trx1 complex. In the present study, the Cell Counting kit‑8 method was used to detect cell activity and the drug concentration. Hoechst 33258 staining and flow cytometry were used to detect cell apoptosis, and the positional association between Txnip and Trx1 upregulated by ceramide was observed by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were used to detect the changes in related gene, mRNA and protein expression levels. The results revealed that ceramide treatment resulted in the upregulation of Txnip and in the reduction of Trx1 activities. However, the Txnip inhibitor, verapamil, reversed these changes. The analysis of mRNA expression further verified the changes observed in the protein expression of Txnip, Trx1 and apoptosis‑related proteins. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that ceramide induces the apoptosis of lung cancer cells by regulating the Txnip/Trx1 complex.

Nephroprotective effect of gastrodin against lead-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in mice by the GSH, Trx, Nrf2 antioxidant system, and the HMGB1 pathway

Gastrodin (GAS), the main phenolic glycoside derivative from Gastrodiaelata Blume, has several bio-activities. However, the molecular mechanisms of these protective actions currently remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of GAS on lead (Pb)-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys and primary kidney mesangial cells. Results indicated that GAS improved Pb-induced renal dysfunction and morphological changes in mice. GAS ameliorated Pb-induced inflammation in kidneys by reducing the TNF-α and IL-6 levels. GAS inhibited Pb-induced oxidative stress by regulating the glutathione, thioredoxin (Trx), and Nrf2 antioxidant systems. Furthermore, GAS supplementation increased the activation of SOD, GPx, HO-1, and NQO1 in the kidneys. GAS decreased the expression levels of HMGB1, TLR4, RAGE, MyD88, and NF-κB. These results were further confirmed in primary kidney mesangial cells. Collectively, this study demonstrated that GAS alleviated Pb-induced kidney oxidative stress and inflammation by regulating the antioxidant systems and the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Highlights Gastrodin ameliorated Pb-induced kidney injury in mice.Gastrodin inhibited oxidative stress and inflammation in kidneys.Gastrodin activated the GSH, Trx and Nrf2 antioxidant system in kidneys.Gastrodin inhibited the activities of HMGB1. RAGE, TLR4, and MyD88.

Rutin-protected BisGMA-induced cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and apoptosis in macrophages through the reduction of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and induction of antioxidant enzymes

Bisphenol-A-glycidyldimethacrylate (BisGMA) is a resin monomer frequently used in dentin restorative treatments. The leakage of BisGMA monomer from BisGMA-based polymeric resins can lead to cytotoxicity in macrophages. Rutin has various beneficial bioeffects, including antioxidation and antiinflammation. In this study, we found that pretreatment of RAW264.7 macrophages with rutin-inhibited cytotoxicity induced by BisGMA in a concentration-dependent manner. BisGMA-induced apoptosis, which was detected by levels of phosphatidylserine from the internal to the external membrane and formation of sub-G1, and genotoxicity, which was detected by cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus and single-cell gel electrophoresis assays, were inhibited by rutin in a concentration-dependent manner. Rutin suppressed the BisGMA-induced activation of caspase-3 and -9 rather than caspase-8. Rutin inhibited the activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, including cytochrome C release and mitochondria disruption, after macrophages were treated with BisGMA. Finally, BisGMA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and antioxidant enzyme (AOE) deactivation could be reversed by rutin. Parallel trends were observed in the elevation of AOE activation and inhibition of ROS generation, caspase-3 activity, mitochondrial apoptotic pathway activation, and genotoxicity. These results suggested that rutin suppressed BisGMA-induced cytotoxicity through genotoxicity, the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, and relatively upstream factors, including reduction of ROS generation and induction of AOE.

Bixin attenuates carbon tetrachloride induced oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis in kidney by regulating the Nrf2/TLR4/MyD88 and PPAR-γ/TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway

Bixin, an natural carotenoid extracted from the seeds of the Bixa orellana has been shown to possess numerous important pharmacological activities. The present study was aimed to investigate the mechanisms of Bixin on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced kidney inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress in mice. Our results showed that Bixin improved renal damage by decreasing the serum levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid and alleviating kidney fibrosis. Bixin ameliorated CCl4-induced inflammation in kidneys by reducing the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β. Bixin suppressed oxidative stress by decreasing the MDA level and increasing the activation of SOD, CAT and GPx. Furthermore, Bixin increased the levels of PPAR-γ, NQO1, HO-1 and the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in the kidneys of mice. Bixin supplementation inhibited the activation of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TGF-β and Smad3. Thus, this study demonstrated that Bixin possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis properties through regulating the Nrf2/TLR4/MyD88 and PPAR-γ/TGF-β1/Smad3 pathways.

Rutin prevents inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide in RAW 264.7 cells via conquering the TLR4-MyD88-TRAF6-NF-κB signalling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Inflammation widely exists in many diseases and poses a great threat to human and animal health. Rutin, quercetin-3-rhamnosyl glucoside, has a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer and radioresistance effects. The current study focused on evaluation of its anti-inflammatory activity and described the mechanism of rutin in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cells.

METHODS

The related gene and protein expression levels were investigated by quantification real-time PCR and western blotting, respectively.

KEY FINDINGS

This study revealed that rutin can decrease inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene and protein expression levels, effectively increase IκB gene expression, reduce toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and p65 gene expression and inhibit the phosphorylation of IκB and p65 and the proteins expression of TLR4, MyD88 and TRAF6.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that rutin might exert anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and will be potentially useful as an adjuvant treatment for inflammatory diseases.

Recent advances in studies of molecular hydrogen in the treatment of pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas characterized by acinar cell injury and is associated with the abnormal release of trypsin, which results in high mortality due to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The inflammatory response, impaired autophagic flux, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and their interactions are involved in the development of pancreatitis. Molecular hydrogen (H₂) is a novel antioxidant that possesses the features of selective scavenging of oxygen free radicals and nontoxic metabolites and has been shown to be efficacious for treating infection, injury, tumors, ischemia-reperfusion organ injury, metabolic disease and several other diseases. Recent studies have found that H₂ is also useful in the treatment of pancreatitis, which may be related to the mechanism of antioxidative stress, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, regulation of immunity and regulation of molecular pathways. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of pancreatitis and the research progress and potential mechanisms of H₂ against pancreatitis to provide theoretical bases for future research and clinical application of H₂ therapy for pancreatitis.

Effects of Gastrodin against Lead-Induced Brain Injury in Mice Associated with the Wnt/Nrf2 Pathway

Gastrodin (GAS), the main phenolic glycoside extracted from Gastrodia elata Blume, exhibited potential neuroprotective properties. Here we examined the protective effects of GAS against lead(Pb)-induced nerve injury in mice, and explores its underlying mechanisms. Our research findings revealed that GAS improved behavioral deficits in Pb-exposed mice. GAS reduced the accumulation of p-tau and amyloid-beta (Aβ). GAS inhibited Pb-induced inflammation in the brain, as indicated by the decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). GAS increased the expression levels of NR2A and neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). GAS inhibited Pb-induced apoptosis of neurons in hippocampus tissue, as indicated by the decreased levels of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase-3. Furthermore, the neuroprotective effects of GAS were associated with inhibiting oxidative stress by modulating nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant signaling. GAS supplement activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and reduced the expression of Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1). Collectively, this study clarified that GAS exhibited neuroprotective property by anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis effects and its ability to regulate the Wnt/Nrf2 pathway.

Radiation-synthesis of chitosan/poly (acrylic acid) nanogel for improving the antitumor potential of rutin in hepatocellular carcinoma

The current study aimed to investigate the ability of chitosan/poly (acrylic acid) nanogel (CAN) to improve the bioavailability and anticancer potential of rutin. Synthesis of CAN was carried out by gamma radiation-induced polymerization of acrylic acid in an aqueous solution of chitosan. The relationship between the hydrodynamic radius of CAN and the absorbed radiation doses was also investigated. The prepared nanogels were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) techniques, and then, it was used as a nano-drug carrier for rutin. The developed formulation was evaluated for its antitumor activity against chemically induced hepatocarcinoma in rats. The following parameters were measured: aspartate and alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyltransferase, and total bilirubin as liver function test; vascular endothelial growth factor as an angiogenesis marker; α-fetoprotein as a tumor marker; and P53, caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 as apoptosis markers. Histopathological examination was also confirmed. Significant enhanced anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and apoptotic effects were observed for rutin-loaded CAN than free rutin, indicating that this formulation could provide a novel therapeutic approach to serve as a promising agent for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Graphical abstract.

Zinc Deficiency Promotes Testicular Cell Apoptosis in Mice

Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in spermatogenesis, and carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) induces testicular oxidative damage and cell death. The objective of the present study was to define the effects of Zn deficiency in combination with CCl₄ treatment on testicular apoptosis and the associated mechanisms. Mice were fed the following diets with three different Zn levels for 6 weeks: normal zinc (ZN) diet (30 mg Zn/kg), zinc-deficient (ZD) diet (2 mg Zn/kg), and adequate zinc (ZA) diet (100 mg Zn/kg). Beginning in the third week, CCl₄ was intraperitoneally injected into half of the mice in each diet group six times over 3 weeks. We found that Zn was distributed in various tissues and organs in normal mice and that the zinc content in the testis of normal mice was high. The Zn-deficient diet reduced the zinc concentration in the testis tissue, and the testicular/body weight ratio significantly decreased. Moreover, the TUNEL results proved that CCl₄ stimulation of mice fed with a zinc-deficient diet caused marked apoptosis of testicular cells. Furthermore, the ROS levels in the testes obviously increased after Zn-deficient mice were stimulated with CCl₄, whereas reduced glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) showed reduced activities. In addition, proteins associated with the apoptosis signaling pathway were detected with ELISA kits. P-p53, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved PRAP, p-Bad, p-JNK, p-ERK, and p-NF-κB p65 increased by varying degrees under zinc deficiency or CCl₄ stimulation. All the data indicated that Zn deficiency significantly enhanced the harm to the testis induced by oxidative stress and damage, while CCl₄ stimulation exacerbated the oxidative damage in testicular cells, leading to apoptosis through the activation of p53, MAPK, and NF-κB.

Effects of gastrodin against carbon tetrachloride induced kidney inflammation and fibrosis in mice associated with the AMPK/Nrf2/HMGB1 pathway

Gastrodin (GAS), the main phenolic glycoside extracted from Gastrodia elata Blume, exhibits potential renoprotective properties.

Rotten to the Cortex: Ceramide-Mediated Lipotoxicity in Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a prevalent and progressive comorbidity of diabetes mellitus that increases one's risk of developing renal failure. Progress toward development of better DKD therapeutics is limited by an incomplete understanding of forces driving and connecting the various features of DKD, which include renal steatosis, fibrosis, and microvascular dysfunction. Herein we review the literature supporting roles for bioactive ceramides as inducers of local and systemic DKD pathology. In rodent models of DKD, renal ceramides are elevated, and genetic and pharmacological ceramide-lowering interventions improve kidney function and ameliorate DKD histopathology. In humans, circulating sphingolipid profiles distinguish human DKD patients from diabetic controls. These studies highlight the potential for ceramide to serve as a central and therapeutically tractable lipid mediator of DKD.

Synergistic Cytoprotective Effects of Rutin and Ascorbic Acid on the Proteomic Profile of 3D-Cultured Keratinocytes Exposed to UVA or UVB Radiation

The combination of ascorbic acid and rutin, often used in oral preparations, due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, can be used to protect skin cells against the effects of UV radiation from sunlight. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic effect of rutin and ascorbic acid on the proteomic profile of UVA and UVB irradiated keratinocytes cultured in a three-dimensional (3D) system. Results showed that the combination of rutin and ascorbic acid protects skin cells against UV-induced changes. In particular, alterations were observed in the expression of proteins involved in the antioxidant response, DNA repairing, inflammation, apoptosis, and protein biosynthesis. The combination of rutin and ascorbic acid also showed a stronger cytoprotective effect than when using either compound alone. Significant differences were visible between rutin and ascorbic acid single treatments in the case of protein carboxymethylation/carboxyethylation. Ascorbic acid prevented UV or rutin-induced protein modifications. Therefore, the synergistic effect of rutin and ascorbic acid creates a potentially effective protective system against skin damages caused by UVA and UVB radiation.

Cross Talk Between TGF-β and JAK Expressions and Nepherotoxicity Induced by Tetrachloromethane: Role of Phytotherapy

The aim of the current study is to assess the effectiveness of milk thistle seeds (Mth) in combination with Taraxacum officinale (Tof) and/or Camellia sinensis (Csin) against tetrachloromethane (Tcm) renotoxicity in rats. Tetrachloromethane was injected in a single dose, followed by 1-month treatments with Mth, Tof, and Csin alone or in combination. Serum urea, uric acid, and creatinine levels were significantly increased matched with the control group. Masson trichrome stain revealed increase in the deposition of fibrous tissue in the interstitium between the tubules and the renal corpuscles. Immunohistochemical analysis of kidney tissues revealed that Tcm induced an increase in the immune response of tumor growth factor β (TGF-β) and Janus kinase (JAK) protein expressions and cysteine–aspartic acid protease 3 (caspase 3), while B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) was downregulated. Treatment with the antioxidants in question either alone or in combination ameliorated all kidney function parameters and showed mild immune reactivity toward TGF-β and JAK protein expressions in blood vessels and glomeruli in the kidney tissues and downregulated caspase 3 and activated Bcl2 protein expression. The combination regimen of the 3 antioxidants showed the most significant renoprotective effect. This was also confirmed histopathologically. It was concluded that the antioxidant mixture is considered as a promising candidate toward renal dysfunction and immune reactivity induced by Tcm and other toxicants.

Cilastatin protects against tacrolimus-induced nephrotoxicity via anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties

BACKGROUND

Cilastatin (CL) is an inhibitor of dehydropeptidase-I, which is safely used in clinical practice to prevent nephrotoxicity of antibiotics. Tacrolimus (TAC) is the most important immunosuppressant in renal transplantation, but it causes considerable nephrotoxicity. We evaluated the protective effects of CL against chronic TAC-induced nephropathy.

METHODS

Chronic nephropathy was induced by administering TAC (1.5 mg/kg/ day, subcutaneous injection) to rats on a low-salt diet for 4 weeks. CL (75 or 150 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal injection) was concomitantly treated with TAC. Human proximal tubular cells were exposed to TAC (50 μg/mL) with or without CL (250 μg/mL). We investigated the effects of CL on TAC-induced injury in terms of renal function, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and inflammation. The effects of CL on oxidative stress and apoptosis were evaluated in both in vivo and in vitro models of TAC nephrotoxicity.

RESULTS

CL treatment improved TAC-induced renal dysfunction and decreased renal interstitial fibrosis (reduced expression of e-cadherin and TGFβ-1) and interstitial inflammation (decreased infiltration of ED-1-positive and osteopontin-positive cells). Compared to TAC treatment alone, CL co-treatment reduced oxidative stress (serum 8-OHdG level and immunoreactivity of 8-OHdG and 4-HHE in renal tissue) and increased renal expression of anti-oxidant enzyme, manganese superoxide dismutase. CL treatment decreased apoptotic cell death (decreased TUNEL-positive cells and reduced expression of active caspase-3) in TAC-treated kidney. In vitro CL treatment prevented tubular cell death from TAC treatment and decreased number of annexin V-positive cells were observed in cilastatin-cotreated cells.

CONCLUSION

CL has protective effects against chronic TAC-induced nephrotoxicity owing to its anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties.

A cross-sectional survey based on blood VOCs, hematological parameters and urine indicators in a population in Jilin, Northeast China

The objective of this study was to examine whether long-term exposure to low-dose volatile organic compounds (VOCs) will have an effect on the health of non-occupational population. A total of 499 non-occupational participants aged more than 18 that live around Jilin Petrochemical Industrial Zone were chosen by stratified cluster random sampling. Their blood VOCs' levels, hematological parameters and urine indicators together with detailed questionnaire data were used to find possible relationships using binary logistic regression analysis. The detection rate of benzene in the blood was high in the non-occupational population around the industrial area, and it even reached 82.3% in males but no significant difference was recorded between male and female population. In addition, trichloroethane (male: 33.2% V female: 21.7%; p = 0.002), carbon tetrachloride (males: 20.3% V females: 7.5%; p < 0.001) and trichlorethylene (male: 34.9% V female: 24.7%; p = 0.004) all showed significant differences in gender, and without exception, the prevalence of males was higher in these three VOCs than of females. The changes in red blood cell (RBC), hematocrit (HCT) and basophils are correlated with carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene and chloroform, respectively. And RBC, HCT and basophils are statistically significant in male compared with female of the study population. The increase in trichlorethylene was associated with an increase of 1.723% (95% CI 1.058-2.806) in HCT. The increase in carbon tetrachloride showed a more significant correlation with an increase of 2.638% in RBC count (95% CI 1.169-5.953). And trichloromethane led to a 1.922% (95% CI 1.051-3.513) increase in basophils. The changes in urinary WBC, urine ketone (KET) and urinary bilirubin (BIL) showed significant correlation with benzene, carbon tetrachloride and dibromochloromethane, respectively. The correlation in females is more significant than in males. The increase of benzene in the female population increased urinary leukocyte count by 2.902% (95% CI 1.275-6.601). The effect of carbon tetrachloride on KET was particularly pronounced, resulting in an increase of 7.000% (95% CI 1.608-30.465). Simultaneously, an increase in dibromochloromethane caused an increase of 4.256% (95% CI 1.373-13.192) in BIL. The changes in RBC, HCT and basophils can only serve as an auxiliary indicator for disease diagnosis, so they have no significant clinical significance. However, the alteration of urinary WBC, KET and BIL has great clinical significances, and it is suggested that the monitoring of the above indicators from low-dose long-term exposure be strengthen in this area.

Chrysanthemum extract attenuates hepatotoxicity via inhibiting oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro

Background

‘Bianliang ziyu’, a famous chrysanthemum variety commonly planted in Kaifeng, China, is often consumed by local residents. However, the hepatoprotective effects of Bianliang ziyu and their underlying mechanisms are not clear.

Objective

In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective and antioxidative effects of Bianliang ziyu extract (BZE) on liver injury and explored its molecular mechanisms.

Design

Sprague-Dawley rats were administered BZE by intragastric administration for 8–9 days, and then alcohol or carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) was administered by gavage to induce acute liver injury. The activities of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde in the rats were measured, and the liver of each rat was examined for histopathological changes. In vitro, HL-7702 cells were pretreated with BZE for 24 h and then exposed to 30 mmol•L⁻¹ acetaminophen (APAP) for 12 h. The survival rate of the cells and the alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities were determined. Then, we investigated the effects of BZE on oxidative stress, apoptosis, and the activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling in HL-7702 cells induced by APAP.

Results

The results showed that BZE prevented alcohol-, CCl₄-, and APAP-induced liver injury and suppressed hepatic oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo. BZE was also observed to significantly inhibit the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential and regulate the expression of Bcl-2, Bax and Caspase-3 in APAP-induced HL-7702 cells. In addition, BZE significantly promoted nuclear translocation and the expression of Nrf2 as well as its downstream gene hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) in vitro. Furthermore, the findings showed that Nrf2 siRNA reversed the effects of BZE on cell survival and apoptosis-related protein expression in APAP-induced HL-7702 cells.

Conclusions

BZE plays an important role in preventing hepatotoxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis through activation of Nrf2 signaling. BZE could be developed as an effective functional food for protecting the liver.

Protective effects of anthocyanins from bilberry extract in rats exposed to nephrotoxic effects of carbon tetrachloride

This study examined the nephroprotective effects of 15 different anthocyanins from the bilberry extract on the acute kidney injury caused by CCl₄. The acute nephrotoxicity in rats was induced 24 h after the treatment with a single dose of CCl₄ (3 mL/kg, i.p.).The nephroprotective effects of the anthocyanins were examined in the animals that had been given the bilberry extract in a single dose of 200 mg of anthocyanins/kg daily, 7 days orally, while on the seventh day, 3 h after the last dose of anthocyanins, the animals received a single dose of CCl₄ (3 mL/kg, i.p.) and were sacrificed 24 h later. When the nephrotoxicant alone was administered, it resulted in a substantial increase of the pro-oxidative (TBARS, CD, H₂O₂, XO, and GSSG) and pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α, NO, and MPO), as well as a noticeable reduction of the antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, POD, GPx, GST, GR) and GSH when compared to the results of the control group. Moreover, the application of CCl₄ significantly influenced a reduction of the renal function, as well as an increase in the sensitive and specific injury indicators of the kidney epithelial cells (β₂-microglobulin, NGAL, KIM1/TIM1) in the serum and urine of rats. The pretreatment of the animals poisoned with CCl₄ with the anthocyanins from the bilberry extract led to a noticeable reduction in the pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory markers with reduced consumption of the antioxidant defence kidney capacity, compared to the animals exposed to CCl₄ alone. Anthocyanins have been protective for the kidney parenchyma, with an apparent absence of the tubular and periglomerular necrosis, severe degenerative changes, inflammatory mononuclear infiltrates and dilatation of proximal and distal tubules, in contrast to the CCl₄-intoxicated animals. The nephroprotective effects of anthocyanins can be explained by strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects achieved through the stabilization and neutralization of highly reactive and unstable toxic CCl₄ metabolites.

Dexmedetomidine Ameliorates Acute Stress-Induced Kidney Injury by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis through Inhibition of the ROS/JNK Signaling Pathway

Acute stress induces tissue damage through excessive oxidative stress. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) reportedly has an antioxidant effect. However, protective roles and related potential molecular mechanisms of DEX against kidney injury induced by acute stress are unknown. Herein, rats were forced to swim 15 min followed by restraint stress for 3 h with/without DEX (30 μg/kg). Successful model establishment was validated by an open-field test. Assessment of renal function (creatinine, urea nitrogen), histopathology, oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase), and apoptosis (transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) was performed. Localization of apoptosis was determined by immunohistochemistry of cleaved caspase 3 protein. In addition, key proteins of the death receptor-mediated pathway, mitochondrial pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) pathway, and ROS/JNK signaling pathway were measured by Western blot. We found that DEX significantly improved renal dysfunction, ameliorated kidney injury, reduced oxidative stress, and alleviated apoptosis. DEX also inhibited the release of norepinephrine (NE), decreased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibited JNK phosphorylation. Additionally, DEX downregulated the expression of Bax, cytochrome C, cleaved caspase 9, and cleaved caspase 3 proteins in mitochondria-dependent pathways. In summary, DEX protects against acute stress-induced kidney injury in rats by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis via inhibition of the ROS/JNK pathway.

Toxicological evaluation and anti-inflammatory potential of an ethanolic extract from Bromelia balansae (Bromeliaceae) fruit

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bromelia balansae is a relatively unexplored medicinal species that is used for nutritional purposes and in folk medicine to treat cough or wounds.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

This study assessed the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract obtained from Bromelia balansae fruit (EEBB) as well as the toxicological potential of this extract after single and repeated exposure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male rats (Wistar) were gavaged with 2000 mg/kg of extract from the fruit of B. balansae for the acute toxicity test and with 25, 100, or 400 mg/kg of EEBB for the subacute toxicity test. The anti-inflammatory effect of EEBB was evaluated in vivo (30, 100, or 300 mg/kg) by carrageenan (Cg) induced-oedema and pleurisy in Swiss mice.

RESULTS

A single oral dose of EEBB did not result in toxicity, demonstrating that the LD₅₀ of this extract was greater than 2000 mg/kg. In the subacute toxicity test, the tested doses produced no significant changes in the haematological, biochemical or histopathological parameters of treated animals. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences in the sperm parameters. A dose of 300 mg/kg of EEBB significantly reduced oedema formation, Cg-induced mechanical hypersensitivity and cold sensitivity, as well as leukocyte migration in the pleurisy model.

CONCLUSION

These results show that EEBB has an anti-inflammatory potential without causing acute or subacute toxicity. These data may contribute to the advancement of biopharmaceutical applications for this species.