Possible signaling cascades involved in attenuation of alloxan-induced oxidative stress and hyperglycemia in mice by ethanolic extract of Syzygium jambolanum: drug-DNA interaction with calf thymus DNA as target

Type-1 diabetes: Lessons from a decade of preclinical studies on phytotherapy

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, numerous herbal products have been shown to have antihyperglycemic and beta cell-regenerative effects in animal studies. However, there is no clinical evidence that those products completely cure patients with type-1 diabetes (T1D). Therefore, it seems that most of the phytochemicals do not have a significant impact on human beta cells, and the results of experimental studies conducted on them may not be generalizable to the clinic.

PURPOSE

The present work aims to review extensively the methods and results of preclinical studies on phytotherapy of T1D published in the last 10 years.

METHODS

This paper critically analyzes the designs of studies, treatment protocols, methods of diabetes induction, characteristics of the studied animals, clinical relevance, reproducibility of research, and other aspects related to conducting preclinical studies on T1D. We discussed limitations that make many of the results of these studies not generalizable to the clinic. Finally, some recommendations were given to improve studies on the phytotherapy of T1D to avoid misleading interpretations about the antidiabetic effect of herbal compounds.

CONCLUSION

This paper can be considered a practical guide for researchers interested in the field of phytotherapy of T1D to increase the reliability, reproducibility, and validity of their preclinical studies.

Enhanced Drug Carriage Efficiency of Curcumin-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles in Combating Diabetic Nephropathy via Mitigation of Renal Apoptosis

Objectives

The Curcuma-derived diferuloylmethane compound CUR, loaded on Poly (lactide-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles was utilized to combat DN-induced renal apoptosis by selectively targeting and modulating Bcl2.

Methods

Upon in silico molecular docking and screening study CUR was selected as the core phytocompound for nanoparticle formulation. PLGA-nano-encapsulated-curcumin (NCUR) were synthesized following standard solvent displacement method. The NCUR were characterized for shape, size and other physico-chemical properties by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy studies. For in vivo validation of nephro-protective effects, Mus musculus were pre-treated with CUR at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. and NCUR at a dose of 25 mg/kg b.w. (dose 1), 12.5 mg/kg b.w (dose 2) followed by alloxan administration (100 mg/kg b.w) and serum glucose levels, histopathology and immunofluorescence study were conducted.

Results

The in silico study revealed a strong affinity of CUR towards Bcl2 (dock score -10.94 Kcal/mol). The synthesized NCUR were of even shape, devoid of cracks and holes with mean size of ~80 nm having -7.53 mV zeta potential. Dose 1 efficiently improved serum glucose levels, tissue-specific expression of Bcl2 and reduced glomerular space and glomerular sclerosis in comparison to hyperglycaemic group.

Conclusion

This study essentially validates the potential of NCUR to inhibit DN by reducing blood glucose level and mitigating glomerular apoptosis by selectively promoting Bcl2 protein expression in kidney tissue.

Mechanistic role of Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels in glycation induced diabetic nephropathy via RAGE-NF-κB pathway and extracellular proteins modifications: A molecular approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (SC), an ancient medicinal plant, is used as a complementary and alternative medicine for treating diabetes mellitus and its associated complications, such as diabetic nephropathy (DN). Phytochemicals present in SC homeopathic formulations possess anti-glycemic, anti-glycation, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the non-enzymatic formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) increases during hyperglycemia in diabetes. AGEs interaction with their receptor of AGEs (RAGE) promotes inflammation via Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) and the accumulation of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) proteins, contributing to the renal dysfunction in DN. However, the molecular mechanism through which SC formulations interact with the AGEs-RAGE-NF-κB pathway has not yet been investigated.

AIM

This study aims to examine the impact of SC formulations on the RAGE-NF-κB pathway and ECM protein modifications in glycation-induced DN using a molecular approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human serum albumin (10 mg/ml) was glycated with MGO (55 mM) in the presence of SC formulations - Mother tincture (MT), 30C, 200C for 7 days. Glycated samples were added to renal cells (HEK 293) for 24 h. Subsequently, cellular gene and protein expressions of RAGE, NF-κB, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), collagen IV (Col IV), and fibronectin were determined using RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. The immunofluorescence, luciferase assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation techniques were employed to gain insights into glycation-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation, transcriptional activity, and its effect on RAGE promoter activity in SC-treated cells.

RESULTS

SC formulations significantly downregulated glycation-induced elevated levels of RAGE and NF-κB. Mechanistically, SC formulations prevented NF-κB nuclear translocation, transcriptional activity, and RAGE promoter activity. Also, SC formulations significantly attenuated glycation-enhanced expressions of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and VEGF) and ECM proteins (Col IV and fibronectin).

CONCLUSION

Our findings enlighten the molecular mechanism of SC in DN by targeting the AGEs-RAGE-NF-κB signaling pathway, inflammatory responses, and ECM accumulation. Hence, the study validates the protective role of SC formulations and signifies its novel potential for treating DN.

To Explore the Putative Molecular Targets of Diabetic Nephropathy and their Inhibition Utilizing Potential Phytocompounds

BACKGROUND

This review critically addresses the putative molecular targets of Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) and screens effective phytocompounds that can be therapeutically beneficial, and highlights their mechanistic modalities of action.

INTRODUCTION

DN has become one of the most prevalent complications of clinical hyperglycemia, with individual-specific variations in the disease spectrum that leads to fatal consequences. Diverse etiologies involving oxidative and nitrosative stress, activation of polyol pathway, inflammasome formation, Extracellular Matrix (ECM) modifications, fibrosis, and change in dynamics of podocyte functional and mesangial cell proliferation adds up to the clinical complexity of DN. Current synthetic therapeutics lacks target-specific approach, and is associated with the development of inevitable residual toxicity and drug resistance. Phytocompounds provides a vast diversity of novel compounds that can become an alternative therapeutic approach to combat the DN.

METHODS

Relevant publications were searched and screened from research databases like GOOGLE SCHOLAR, PUBMED and SCISEARCH. Out of 4895 publications, the most relevant publications were selected and included in this article.

RESULT

This study critically reviews over 60 most promising phytochemical and provides with their molecular targets, that can be of pharmacological significance in context to current treatment and concomitant research in DN.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights those most promising phytocompounds that have the potential of becoming new safer naturally-sourced therapeutic candidates and demands further attention at clinical level.

Ameliorating Effect of Malva neglecta Wallr on Obesity and Diabetes in Wistar Rats: A Mechanistic Study

A high caloric food causes deposition of fats that may progress to obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for various metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, including but limited to diabetes mellitus. This study is aimed at determining the ameliorating effect of Malva Neglecta wallr aqueous-methanolic extract (MNME) on obesity and diabetes in Wistar rats. The MNME was chemically characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The plant extract was evaluated by in vitro α-amylase inhibition and DPPH scavenging activities. Obesity was induced by administering high sugar and fat diet (HSFD) to rats for six weeks, followed by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg) to induce diabetes. Oral treatments with MNME 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg/day were given to diabetic obese rats for 14 days. The HPLC analysis showed the presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids. The plant extract showed significant antioxidant (P < 0.001) and alpha-amylase (P < 0.0001) inhibition activities. The administration of MNME displayed a considerable decrease in fasting blood glucose, body weight, liver function tests, urea, cholesterol, leptin, and insulin levels in diabetic obese rats as compared to the disease control group and maximum effect were observed at 750 mg/kg/day of MNME. The MNME significantly increased (P < 0.05 − 0.001) the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT in the liver, kidney, and pancreas while notably (P < 0.05 − 0.001) reduced the malondialdehyde level in kidney and pancreas of diabetic obese rats in contrast to disease control rats. This experimental study concludes that the MNME had exhibited antiobesity and antidiabetic activities through reduction of oxidative stress, leptin, α-amylase activity, and insulin resistance due to the presence of phenolic acid and flavonoid compounds.

Current Role of Nanotechnology Used in Food Processing Industry to Control Food Additives and Exploring Their Biochemical Mechanisms

BACKGROUND

With the advent of food additives centuries ago, the human race has found ways to improve and maintain the safety of utility, augment the taste, color, texture, nutritional value, and appearance of the food. Since the 19th century, when the science behind food spoilage was discerned, the use of food additives in food preservation has been increasing worldwide and at a fast pace to get along with modern lifestyles. Although food additives are thought to be used to benefit the food market, some of them are found to be associated with several health issues at an alarming rate. Studies are still going on regarding the mechanisms by which food additives affect public health. Therefore, an attempt has been made to find out the remedies by exploiting technologies that may convey new properties of food additives that can only enhance the quality of food without having any systemic side effects. Thus, this review focuses on the applications of nanotechnology in the production of nano-food additives and evaluates its success regarding reduction in the health-related hazards collaterally maintaining the food nutrient value.

METHODOLOGY

A thorough literature study was performed using scientific databases like PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science for determining the design of the study, and each article was checked for citation and referred to formulate the present review article.

CONCLUSION

Nanotechnology can be applied in the food processing industry to control the unregulated use of food additives and to intervene in the biochemical mechanisms at a cellular and physiological level for the ensuring safety of food products. The prospective of nano-additive of chemical origin could be useful to reduce risks of hazards related to human health that are caused majorly due to the invasion of food contaminants (either intentional or non-intentional) into food, though this area still needs scientific validation. Therefore, this review provides comprehensive knowledge on different facets of food contaminants and also serves as a platform of ideas for encountering health risk problems about the design of improved versions of nano-additives.

A Family of [Zn6] Complexes from the Carboxylate-Bridge-Supported Assembly of [Zn2] Building Units: Synthetic, Structural, Spectroscopic, and Systematic Biological Studies

The three discrete [Zn₆] complexes [Na₃Zn₆(cpdp)₃(μ-Bz)₃(CH₃OH)₆][ZnCl₄][ZnCl₃(H₂O)]·3CH₃OH·1.5H₂O (1), [Na₃Zn₆(cpdp)₃(μ-p-OBz)₃(CH₃OH)₆]·2H₂O (2), and [Na₃Zn₆(cpdp)₃(μ-p-NO₂Bz)₃(CH₃OH)₆]Cl₃·2H₂O (3), supported by the carboxylate-based multidentate ligand N,N'-bis[2-carboxybenzomethyl]-N,N'-bis[2-pyridylmethyl]-1,3-diaminopropan-2-ol (H₃cpdp), have been successfully synthesized and fully characterized (Bz = benzoate; p-OBz = dianion of p-hydroxybenzoic acid; p-NO₂Bz = p-nitrobenzoate). The complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, UV-vis, NMR spectroscopy, PXRD, and thermal analysis, including single-crystal X-ray crystallography of 1 and 2. The molecular architectures of 1-3 are built from the self-assembly of their corresponding [Zn₂] units, which are interconnected to the central [Na₃(CH₃OH)₆]³⁺ core by six endogenous benzoate groups, with each linking one Zn(II) and one Na(I) ion in a μ₂:η¹:η¹-syn-anti bidentate fashion. The composition of the (cpdp^3-)₃/(Zn²⁺)₆ complexes in 1-3 has been observed to be 1:2, on the basis of the UV-vis titration and NMR spectroscopic results, which is further supported by X-ray crystallography. Systematic biological studies performed with a mice model suggested possible antidiabetic efficacy as well as anticancer activities of the complexes. When complexes 1-3 were administered intraperitoneally in mice, 1 showed a lowering in the blood glucose level, overall maintenance of the pancreatic tissue mass, restriction of DNA damage in pancreatic cells, and retention of lipid droplet (LD) frequency, whereas 2 and 3 showed hepatic tissue mass consistency by inhibiting the DNA damage in hepatic cells, prior to the exposure to a potent diabetic inducer, alloxan (ALX). Similar trends of results were observed in inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pancreatic and hepatic cells, as examined by spectrofluorometric methods. Thus, 1 seems to be a better compound for overall diabetic management and control, whereas 2 and 3 seem to be promising compounds for designing chemopreventive drugs against hepatic carcinoma.

Antidiabetic effects of quercetin and liraglutide combination through modulation of TXNIP/IRS-1/PI3K pathway

The study was designed to assess the possible augmented antidiabetic effects of combining quercetin and liraglutide in a type 1 diabetes model, with emphasis on the contribution of hepatic thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP)/insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1)/phosphatidyl inositol-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway. The wound-healing effects were also examined. Diabetes was induced by a single i.p STZ injection (55 mg/kg). Diabetic rats were treated with either quercetin (100 mg/kg/day, orally) or liraglutide (0.3 mg/kg/twice daily, S.C.) or their combination. Drugs were also applied topically on the wound. Blood glucose levels, serum albumin, total protein, total cholesterol and triglycerides were measured. Histopathological examination of the liver, pancreas and skin tissues was performed using haematoxylin and eosin staining. The hepatic malondialdehyde level was measured spectrophotometrically. Hepatic TXNIP and PI3K levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunsorbent assay (ELISA). Tissue expression of IRS-1 and phospho-IRS-1 (Ser 616) was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Quercetin, liraglutide and their combination effectively decreased blood glucose levels, improved lipid profile, upregulated albumin and total protein serum levels and reduced hepatic oxidative stress with the combination being most effective. Moreover, the combination group showed enhanced wound-healing effects and almost normalized hepatic and pancreatic histopathology. Quercetin and/or liraglutide significantly decreased TXNIP levels and serine phosphorylation of IRS-1 and increased PI3K levels compared to the diabetic untreated group. Interestingly, only the combination therapy normalized hepatic IRS-1 expression. The combination of quercetin and liraglutide showed enhanced antidiabetic effects, possibly through lowering hepatic TXNIP levels, with the resultant up-regulation of the IRS-1/PI3K pathway.

Pyrroloquinoline quinone alleviates oxidative damage induced by high glucose in HepG2 cells

Hyperglycemia as a common metabolic disorder in diabetes led to oxidative stress, inflammation and other complications. Natural and manufactured antioxidants alleviates the side effects of diabetes. The purpose of current study is to investigate the effect of pyrroloquinoline quinine (PQQ) as an antioxidant on the content of glucose-induced oxidative stress generation in the cells of the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma (HepG2) by inhibiting advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation. The HepG2 cells were exposed to high dose (50 mM) of glucose (HG) only and with PQQ (HG + PQQ). Treatment with high dose increased AGEs formation, expression of receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), reactive oxygen species ROS production, and oxidative stress markers in treated HepG2 cells. Interestingly, PQQ significantly reduced AGEs formation and (RAGE) expression, ROS formation, and inflammation induced by glucose. In conclusion, PQQ has a potentiail role as an antioxidant to reduce the oxidative damage during hyperglycemia by AGEs inhibition.

Glucokinase activation as antidiabetic therapy: effect of nutraceuticals and phytochemicals on glucokinase gene expression and enzymatic activity

Diabetes represents an important public health problem. Recently, new molecular targets have been identified and exploited to treat this disease. Due to its pivotal role in glucose homeostasis, glucokinase (GCK) is a promising target for the development of novel antidiabetic drugs; however, pharmacological agents that modulate GCK activity have been linked to undesirable side-effects, limiting its use. Interestingly, plants might be a valuable source of new therapeutic compounds with GCK-activating properties and presumably no adverse effects. In this review, we describe biochemical characteristics related to the physiological and pathological importance of GCK, as well as the mechanisms involved in its regulation at different molecular levels. Posteriorly, we present a compendium of findings supporting the potential use of nutraceuticals and phytochemicals in the management of diabetes through modulation of GCK expression and activity. Finally, we propose critical aspects to keep in mind when designing experiments to evaluate GCK modulation properly.

Lipotoxic Impairment of Mitochondrial Function in β-Cells: A Review

Lipotoxicity is a major contributor to type 2 diabetes mainly promoting mitochondrial dysfunction. Lipotoxic stress is mediated by elevated levels of free fatty acids through various mechanisms and pathways. Impaired peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling, enhanced oxidative stress levels, and uncoupling of the respiratory chain result in ATP deficiency, while β-cell viability can be severely impaired by lipotoxic modulation of PI3K/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. However, fatty acids are physiologically required for an unimpaired β-cell function. Thus, preparation, concentration, and treatment duration determine whether the outcome is beneficial or detrimental when fatty acids are employed in experimental setups. Further, ageing is a crucial contributor to β-cell decay. Cellular senescence is connected to loss of function in β-cells and can further be promoted by lipotoxicity. The potential benefit of nutrients has been broadly investigated, and particularly polyphenols were shown to be protective against both lipotoxicity and cellular senescence, maintaining the physiology of β-cells. Positive effects on blood glucose regulation, mitigation of oxidative stress by radical scavenging properties or regulation of antioxidative enzymes, and modulation of apoptotic factors were reported. This review summarizes the significance of lipotoxicity and cellular senescence for mitochondrial dysfunction in the pancreatic β-cell and outlines potential beneficial effects of plant-based nutrients by the example of polyphenols.

"Pelargonidin mediated selective activation of p53 and parp proteins in preventing food additive induced genotoxicity: an in vivo coupled in silico molecular docking study"

Food-additive toxicity has become a major health hazard issue globally. Alloxan (ALX), a food-additive, intaken daily through flour causes diabetes and genotoxicity by inducing chromosomal-aberration and DNA-damage. The use of phytochemicals as a protective measure of health hazards has become quite evident because of their least side effects. Pelargonidin (PG), one such phyto-product, have an anti-genotoxic and anti-diabetic effect. In this study, the possibility of PG to inhibit alloxan-induced chromosomal-aberration and DNA-damage was assessed in mice model in vivo and the experimental outcome was validated theoretically through in silico structure-based molecular docking study. Results of the mitotic-index observed from the PG-pre-treated-alloxan-administered (PG+ALX) mice group revealed a significant reduction in chromosomal-anomaly, DNA-damage, and an upregulation of the p53 and PARP protein expression when compared to the ALX-treated mice group. Additionally, the in silico molecular docking study predicted the biochemical mechanism of actions of pelargonidin by identifying the two important amino acid residues p53 and PARP as the active bio-targets of pelargonidin. Therefore, results of our present in vivo and silico studies implicate that pelargonidin could effectively restrict DNA-damage and chromosomal-aberration by modulating PARP and p53 repair proteins showing its ability for possible protein-drug interaction, an effective therapeutic tool in future drug discovery.

Nanophytomedicines for the Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome: A Pharmacological and Biopharmaceutical Review

Metabolic syndrome includes a series of metabolic abnormalities that leads to diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Plant extracts, due to their unique advantages like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and insulin sensitizing properties, are interesting therapeutic options to manage MetS; however, the poor solubility and low bioavailability of lipophilic bioactive components in the herbal extracts are two critical challenges. Nano-scale delivery systems are suitable to improve delivery of herbal extracts. This review, for the first time, focuses on nanoformulations of herbal extracts in MetS and related complications. Included studies showed that several forms of nano drug delivery systems such as nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanobiocomposites, and green-synthesized silver, gold, and zinc oxide nanoparticles have been developed using herbal extracts. It was shown that the method of preparation and related parameters such as temperature and type of polymer are important factors affecting physicochemical stability and therapeutic activity of the final product. Many of these formulations could successfully decrease the lipid profile, inflammation, oxidative damage, and insulin resistance in in vitro and in vivo models of MetS-related complications. Further studies are still needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these novel herbal formulations for clinical application.

Quercetin improves nonalcoholic fatty liver by ameliorating inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism in db/db mice

Multiphase pathological processes involve in Type 2 diabetes (T2DM)-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the therapies are quite limited. In the present study, the hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of quercetin in T2DM-induced NAFLD were investigated. T2DM-induced NAFLD and quercetin treatment models were established in vivo and in vitro. The results revealed that quercetin alleviated serum transaminase levels and markedly reduced T2DM-induced histological alterations of livers. Additionally, quercetin restored superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione content in livers. Not only that, quercetin markedly attenuated T2DM-induced production of interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, and TNF-α. Accompanied by the restoration of the increased serum total bile acid (p = .0001) and the decreased liver total bile acid (p = .0005), quercetin could reduce lipid accumulation in the liver of db/db mice. Further mechanism studies showed that farnesoid X receptor 1/Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 signaling pathways was involved in quercetin regulation of lipid metabolism in T2DM-induced NAFLD. In high D-glucose and free fatty acid cocultured HepG2 cells model, quercetin eliminated lipid droplets and restored the upregulated total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Similar to the findings in mice, quercetin could also activate farnesoid X receptor 1/Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 signaling pathway. These findings suggested that quercetin might be a potentially effective drug for the treatment of T2DM-induced NAFLD.

Activating Effects of Phenolics from Apache Red Zea mays L. on Free Fatty Acid Receptor 1 and Glucokinase Evaluated with a Dual Culture System with Epithelial, Pancreatic, and Liver Cells

The aim was to characterize a phenolic-rich water extract from the pericarp of an improved genotype of Apache red maize (RPE) and evaluate its ability to activate the type 2 diabetes markers free fatty acid receptor 1 (GPR40) and glucokinase (GK) in vitro. The extract contained mainly phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and other flavonoids. RPE inhibited α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 88.3 μg/mL), α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 169.3 μg/mL), and reduced glucose transport in a Caco-2 cell monolayer (up to 25%). Furthermore, RPE activated GPR40 (EC₅₀ = 77.7 μg/mL) in pancreatic INS-1E cells and GK (EC₅₀ = 43.4 μg/mL) in liver HepG2 cells, potentially through allosteric modulation. RPE activated GPR40-related insulin secretory pathway and activated the glucose metabolism regulator AMPK (up to 78%). Our results support the hypothesis that foods with a high concentration of anthocyanins and phenolic acids, such as in the selected variety of maize used, could ameliorate obesity and type 2 diabetes comorbidities.

Dimeric NGF Mimetic Attenuates Hyperglycaemia and DNA Damage in Mice with Streptozotocin-Induced Early-Stage Diabetes

BACKGROUND

NGF deficiency is one of the reasons for reduced β-cells survival in diabetes. Our previous experiments revealed the ability of low-weight NGF mimetic, GK-2, to reduce hyperglycaemia in a model of advanced diabetes. The increase in DNA damage in advanced diabetes was repeatedly reported, while there were no data about DNA damage in the initial diabetes.

AIM

The study aimed to establish whether DNA damage occurs in initial diabetes and whether GK-2 is able to overcome the damage.

METHODS

The early-stage diabetes was modelled in Balb/c mice by streptozotocin (STZ) (130 mg/kg, i.p.). GK-2 was administered at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, i.p., subchronically. The evaluation of DNA damage was performed using the alkaline comet assay; the percentage of DNA in the tail (%TDNA) and the percentage of the atypical DNA comets ("ghost cells") were determined.

RESULTS

STZ at this subthreshold dose produced a slight increase in glycemia and MDA. Meanwhile, pronounced DNA damage was observed, concerning mostly the percentage of "ghost cells" in the pancreas, the liver and kidneys. GK-2 attenuated the degree of hyperglycaemia and reduced the % of "ghost cells" and %TDNA in all the organs examined; this effect continued after discontinuation of the therapy.

CONCLUSION

Early-stage diabetes is accompanied by DNA damage, manifested by the increase of "ghost cells" percentage. The severity of these changes significantly exceeds the degree of hyperglycaemia and MDA accumulation. GK-2 exerts an antihyperglycaemic effect and attenuates the degree of DNA damage. Our results indicate that the comet assay is a highly informative method for search of antidiabetic medicines.

Efficacy of nanoencapsulated pelargonidin in ameliorating pesticide toxicity in fish and L6 cells: Modulation of oxidative stress and signalling cascade

Removal of bio-accumulated pesticides in edible fish is a global problem. In this study, we tested protective capability of a phytochemical pelargonidin-loaded non-toxic, biodegradable poly-lactide-co-glycolide nano-particles (NPG) against toxicity induced by a pesticide cypermethrin (CM) in a fish model (Oreochromis mossambica) in vivo and also in L6 muscle cell line, in vitro. First we assessed potential sustainable release of nanoparticles following oral administration of NPG to fish, their ability to cross sub-cellular membranes in several tissues and efficacy to cross blood-brain-barrier. Next, protective ability of NPG, if any, against CM in fish was evaluated deploying parameters like % cell viability, DNA damage in muscle cells and modulation of anti-oxidative-enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidase. Modulation of reactive oxygen species generation, nuclear condensation and alteration in stress related protein signalling cascade were assessed in L6 cells. Results revealed that NPG had nano-size range (~10-12 nm) and negative zeta potential (-17 mV). Bioavailability and distribution of NPG could be followed by spectrophotometric absorbance of pelargonidin at 293 nm from 6 h onward till 24 h in all important tissues including the brain. Thus, 0.5 mg/g b.w. NPG could demonstrate protective ability in CM-intoxicated fish muscle cells in respect of % cell viability, DNA damage and stress related enzymes. Similar alterations could also be found in signalling protein cascade in L6 cells in response to treatment of 5 μg/ml NPG against CM-induced toxicity and depletion of overall ROS generation and nuclear condensation. Therefore, NPG could be used as a potential drug in management of pesticide toxicity in cultured edible fish.

Ethnopharmacological Inspections of Organic Extract of Oroxylum indicum in Rat Models: A Promising Natural Gift

The stem bark of Oroxylum indicum (O. indicum) was aimed at testing for anti-inflammatory, antiulcerative, antihyperglycemic, and antidyslipidemic activities. Liver enzyme concentration (SGPT, SGOT) had also been assessed. After being extracted in organic solvent, 3 distinct doses, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg b.w. (p.o.), were used. For edema formation 0.1 ml carrageenan at a dose of 1% w/v was injected into paw of left hind. It showed a fall of edemas 37.50%, 48.34%, and 55.83% while used doses were 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg b.w. (p.o.) individually. The EtOH extract of O. indicum (50%) and its fractions PET, CLF, EtOAc, and nBUT were studied against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage. Only PET and n-BuOH exhibited the highest percentage of protection and were 96% and 99%, respectively, persuaded by ethanol. In OGTT glibenclamide revealed reduction of glucose level to 7.55 ± 0.22 mmol/L from 10.57 ± 0.32 mmol/L after 30 minutes. Antihyperglycemic activities were assessed for 8- and 12-week duration in diabetic rats. Glibenclamide reduced glucose level from 33.50±0.31 to 7.90±0.19 mmol/L in 12 weeks. In 12 and 8 weeks, combination therapy lowered blood glucose level to a normal extent by 79% and 61% individually. In antidyslipidemic activities after 12-week treatment, it revealed simvastatin; MEOI (400 mg/kg b.w.) and combination of both reduced TC level by 44%, 28%, and 48% consequently followed by TG and LDL. In 8-week treatment, HDL levels were increased by 34%, 13%, and 36%, and in 12 weeks increased by 36%, 8%, and 38% consequently. Liver enzyme concentration after 12 weeks of treatment with glibenclamide, 400 mg/kg b.w. (p.o.) of MEOI and combination of both, exhibited the fact that concentration of SGPT showed downturn by 43.23%, 8.01%, and 54.86% and SGOT by 42.40%, 5.31%, and 44.85%. This study remarked that O. indicum has anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antidiabetic, and antidyslipidemic potentials but has no ameliorative effect on liver enzyme.

Beetle (Ulomoides dermestoides) fat improves diabetes: effect on liver and pancreatic architecture and on PPARγ expression

Ulomoides dermestoides is a beetle traditionally consumed to treat diabetes. In this study, we performed a composition analysis of U. dermestoides to obtain the principal fractions, which were used to assess the effect on glycemia, liver and pancreatic architecture, and PPARγ and GLUT4 expression. Normal mice and alloxan-induced diabetic mice were administered fractions of chitin, protein or fat, and the acute hypoglycemic effect was evaluated. A subacute study involving daily administration of these fractions to diabetic mice was also performed over 30 days, after which the liver and pancreas were processed by conventional histological techniques and stained with hematoxylin and eosin to evaluate morphological changes. The most active fraction, the fat fraction, was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and PPARγ and GLUT4 mRNA expressions were determined in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The protein and fat fractions exhibited hypoglycemic effects in the acute as well as in the 30-day study. Only the fat fraction led to elevated insulin levels and reduced glycemia, as well as lower intake of water and food. In the liver, we observed recovery of close hepatic cords in the central lobule vein following treatment with the fat fraction, while in the pancreas there was an increased density and percentage of islets and number of cells per islet, suggesting cellular regeneration. The GC-MS analysis of fat revealed three fatty acids as the major components. Finally, increased expression of PPARγ and GLUT4 was observed in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, indicating an antidiabetic effect.

Nano-encapsulated chlorophyllin significantly delays progression of lung cancer both in in vitro and in vivo models through activation of mitochondrial signaling cascades and drug-DNA interaction

Chlorophyllin (CHL), a sodium-copper-salt derived from chlorophyll, has been widely used as a food-dye, also reportedly having some anti-cancer effect. We tested if PLGA-loaded CHL (NCHL) could have additional protective abilities through its faster and targeted drug delivery in cancer cells. Physico-chemical characterization of NCHL was done through atomic-force microscopy and UV-spectroscopy. NCHL demonstrated greater ability of drug uptake and strong anti-cancer potentials in non-small cell lung cancer cells, A549, as revealed from data of% cell viability, generation of reactive-oxygen-species and expression of bax, bcl2, caspase3, p53 and cytochrome c proteins. Circular dichroic spectral data indicated strong binding of NCHL with calf-thymus-DNA, causing a conformational/structural change in DNA. Further, NCHL could cross the blood-brain-barrier in mice and showed greater efficacy in recovery process of tissue damage, reduction in chromosomal aberrations and% of micronuclei in co-mutagens (Sodiumarsenite+Benzo[a]Pyrene)-treated mice at a much reduced dose, indicating its use in therapeutic oncology.

Nanopharmaceutical Approach for Enhanced Anti-cancer Activity of Betulinic Acid in Lung-cancer Treatment via Activation of PARP: Interaction with DNA as a Target: -Anti-cancer Potential of Nano-betulinic Acid in Lung Cancer

Objectives:

This study examined the relative efficacies of a derivative of betulinic acid (dBA) and its poly (lactide- co-glycolide) (PLGA) nano-encapsulated form in A549 lung cancer cells in vivo and in co-mutagen [sodium arsenite (SA) + benzo]undefined[a]pyrene (BaP)]-induced lung cancer in mice in vivo.

Methods:

dBA was loaded with PLGA nanoparticles by using the standard solvent displacement method. The sizes and morphologies of nano-dBA (NdBA) were determined by using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and their intracellular localization was verified by using confocal microscopy. The binding and interaction of NdBA with calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (CT-DNA) as a target were analyzed by using conventional circular dichroism (CD) and melting temperature (Tm) profile data. Apoptotic signalling cascades in vitro and in vivo were studied by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); the ability of NdBA to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) was also examined. The stage of cell cycle arrest was confirmed by using a fluorescence-activated cell-sorting (FACS) data analysis.

Results:

The average size of the nanoparticles was ~ 110 nm. Confocal microscopy images confirmed the presence of NdBA in the cellular cytoplasm. The bio-physical properties of dBA and NdBA ascertained from the CD and the Tm profiles revealed that NdBA had greater interaction with the target DNA than dBA did. Both dBA and NdBA arrested cell proliferation at G0/G1, NdBA showing the greater effect. NdBA also induced a greater degree of cytotoxicity in A549 cells, but it had an insignificant cytotoxic effect in normal L6 cells. The results of flow cytometric, cytogenetial and histopathological studies in mice revealed that NdBA caused less nuclear condensation and DNA damage than dBA did. TEM images showed the presence of NdBA in brain samples of NdBA fed mice, indicating its ability to cross the BBB.

Conclusion:

Thus, compared to dBA, NdBA appears to have greater chemoprotective potential against lung cancer.

Nanoceria Attenuated High Glucose-Induced Oxidative Damage in HepG2 Cells

Objective

Hyperglycemia, a common metabolic disorder in diabetes, can lead to oxidative damage. The use of antioxidants can benefit the control and prevention of diabetes side effects. This study aims to evaluate the effect of nanoceria particles, as an antioxidant, on glucose induced cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and glutathione (GSH) content in a human hepatocellular liver carcinoma cell line (HepG2) cell line.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, we divided HepG2 cells into these groups: i. Cells treated with 5 mM D-glucose (control), ii. Cells treated with 45 mM D- mannitol+5 mM D-glucose (osmotic control), iii. Cells treated with 50 mM D-glucose (high glucose), and iv. Cells treated with 50 mM D-glucose+nanoceria. Cell viability, ROS formation, LPO and GSH were measured and analyzed statistically.

Results

High glucose (50 mM) treatment caused significant cell death and increased oxidative stress markers in HepG2 cells. Interestingly, nanoceria at a concentration of 50 mM significantly decreased the high glucose-induced cytotoxicity, ROS formation and LPO. This concentration of nanoceria increased the GSH content in HepG2 cells (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The antioxidant feature of nanoceria particles makes it an attractive candidate for attenuation of hyperglycemia oxidative damage in different organs.

Nanopharmaceutical approach using pelargonidin towards enhancement of efficacy for prevention of alloxan-induced DNA damage in L6 cells via activation of PARP and p53

Alloxan is an environmental food contaminant that causes DNA damage in living cells and induces hyperglycemia. Pelargonidin (PG), an active ingredient found in extract of various fruits and vegetables, has been nanoencapsulated (NPG) with poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) and tested for efficacy in prevention of alloxan (ALX)-induced DNA damage in L6 cells in vitro. Glucose uptake, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, glucose transporter 4, glucokinase levels and mechanism of activation of DNA repair proteins (PARP and p53) have been studied in ALX-induced L6 cells. Drug-DNA interaction has been analyzed using calf thymus DNA as target through circular dichroism and melting temperature profile. NPGs were physico-chemically characterized by standard protocols using dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Pre-treatment with both PG and/or NPG was effective in reducing ALX-induced oxidative stress and showed favourable effects for protection against DNA damage by activating DNA repair cascades. Results suggested ∼10-fold increase in efficacy of NPG than PG in prevention of alloxan-induced oxidative stress and DNA damage.

Nanotechnological approaches in diabetes treatment: A new horizon

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and takes a heavy toll on human life. Treatment of diabetics often poses a problem in selection of the proper drug, its dose and unwanted side effects. Therefore, newer drugs with the least side effects but with highest efficiency are being relentlessly searched for. In recent years, nanotechnology has given new hope for the formulation of various drugs against a myriad of diseases, including diabetes. This review tries to give an overview of the advantages of various new drugs being used, including a wide range of nanoformulations of orthodox as well complementary and alternative medicines. Several studies and research reports based on nanotechnological approaches in the formulation of anti-diabetic drugs have pointed out the fact that research in the formulation of nanodrugs improved strategies for combating diabetes based on the plausible molecular mechanism of action of the drugs. Furthermore, attempts have also been made to delineate the optimum drug concentration and time of exposure in order to recommend a scientifically validated drug dose response in developing different therapeutic strategies. Thus, to a considerable extent, recent studies have contributed towards improving the life expectancy and quality of life of diabetics, through both targeted orthodox medicine and complementary medicine, particularly those obtained from natural resources.

The prelude on novel receptor and ligand targets involved in the treatment of diabetes mellitus

Metabolic disorders are a group of disorders, due to the disruption of the normal metabolic process at a cellular level. Diabetes Mellitus and Tyrosinaemia are the majorly reported metabolic disorders. Among them, Diabetes Mellitus is a one of the leading metabolic syndrome, affecting 5 to 7 % of the population worldwide and mainly characterised by elevated levels of glucose and is associated with two types of physiological event disturbances such as impaired insulin secretion and insulin resistance. Up to now, various treatment strategies are like insulin, alphaglucosidase inhibitors, biguanides, incretins were being followed. Concurrently, various novel therapeutic strategies are required to advance the therapy of Diabetes mellitus. For the last few decades, there has been an extensive research in understanding the metabolic pathways involved in Diabetes Mellitus at the cellular level and having the profound knowledge on cell-growth, cell-cycle, and apoptosis at a molecular level provides new targets for the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. Receptor signalling has been involved in these mechanisms, to translate the information coming from outside. To understand the various receptors involved in these pathways, we must have a sound knowledge on receptors and ligands involved in it. This review mainly summarises the receptors and ligands which are involved the Diabetes Mellitus. Finally, researchers have to develop the alternative chemical moieties that retain their affinity to receptors and efficacy. Diabetes Mellitus being a metabolic disorder due to the glucose surfeit, demands the need for regular exercise along with dietary changes.

Dihydroxy-isosteviol methyl ester of Pulsatilla nigricans extract reduces arsenic-induced DNA damage in testis cells of male mice: its toxicity, drug-DNA interaction and signaling cascades

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ameliorative efficacy of dihydroxy-isosteviol methyl ester (DIME) of Pulsatilla nigricans extract in arsenic-induced DNA damage in testis cells of mice.

METHODS

The mice were treated with sodium arsenite (SA) solution intragastrically at a dose of 20 mg/kg per day and examined at 30, 60, and 90 d after treatment. We divided SA-intoxicated mice into two sub-groups: one fed with DIME at a dose of 35 mg/kg and the other with 85% alcohol. We analyzed the expressions of apoptotic signal proteins like CYP1A1, p53 and caspase 3, ascertained the level of cellular and DNA damage and estimated the level of testicular-toxicity biomarkers. We studied the interaction of DIME with calf thymus DNA as target through circular dichroism spectra and melting temperature profiles.

RESULTS

We observed an elevation in all apoptotic and toxicity biomarkers leading to cellular and DNA damage in the SA-intoxicated mice which showed significant inhibition or reversal on administration of DIME. Results also showed that DIME interacted with DNA, bringing in discernible changes in structure and conformation.

CONCLUSION

DIME has potentials for therapeutic use in amelioration of arsenic-induced reproductive toxicity.

Strategic formulation of apigenin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for intracellular trafficking, DNA targeting and improved therapeutic effects in skin melanoma in vitro

The aim of the present study was the evaluation of anti-proliferative potentials of apigenin (Ap), (a dietary flavonoid) loaded in poly (lactic-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (NAp) in A375 cells in vitro. NAp was characterized for particle size, morphology, zeta potential, drug release and encapsulation. Cellular entry and intracellular localization of NAp were assessed by transmission electron and confocal microscopies. Circular dichroic spectral analysis and stability curve for Gibb's free energy of dsDNA of A375 cells were also analyzed. DNA fragmentation, intracellular ROS accumulation, superoxide-dismutase activity, intracellular glutathione-reductase content and mitochondrial functioning through relevant markers like mitochondrial transmembrane potential, ATPase activity, ATP/ADP ratio, volume changes/swelling, cytochrome-c release, expressions of Apaf-1, bax, bcl-2, caspase-9, 3, and PARP cleavage were analyzed. NAp produced better effects due to their smaller size, faster mobility and site-specific action. Photostability studies revealed that PLGA encapsulations were efficient at preserving apigenin ultraviolet-light mediated photodegradation. NAp readily entered cancer cells, could intercalate with dsDNA, inducing conformational change. Corresponding increase in ROS accumulation and depletion of the antioxidant enzyme activities exacerbated DNA damage, mediating apoptosis through mitochondrial dysfunction. Overall results indicate that therapeutic efficacy of NAp may be enhanced by PLGA nanoparticle formulations to have better ameliorative potentials in combating skin melanoma.

Apigenin, a bioactive flavonoid from Lycopodium clavatum, stimulates nucleotide excision repair genes to protect skin keratinocytes from ultraviolet B-induced reactive oxygen species and DNA damage

In this study, we examined the antioxidative and the DNA protective potentials of apigenin, a flavonoid polyphenol isolated from Lycopodium clavatum, in both in-vitro (HaCaT skin keratinocytes) and in-vivo (mice) models against UV-B radiation. We used DAPI staining in UV-B-irradiated HaCaT skin keratinocytes pre-treated with and without apigenin to assess DNA damage. We also used a flow-cytometric analysis in mice exposed to UV-B radiation with or without topical application of apigenin to assess, through a comet assay, chromosomal aberrations and quanta from reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Data from the stability curves for the Gibb's free energy determined from a melting-temperature profile study indicated that apigenin increased the stability of calf thymus DNA. Immunofluorescence studies revealed that apigenin caused a reduction in the number of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) after 24 h, the time at which the nucleotide excision repair (NER) genes were activated. Thus, apigenin accelerated reversal of UV-B-induced CPDs through up-regulation of NER genes, removal of cyclobutane rings, inhibition of ROS generation, and down-regulation of NF-κB and MAPK, thereby revealing the precise mechanism of DNA repair.

Ameliorating effect of mother tincture of Syzygium jambolanum on carbohydrate and lipid metabolic disorders in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat: Homeopathic remedy

Background:

Syzygium jambolanum (S jambolanum) is widely used in homeopathy for treating patients with diabetes mellitus. In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the remedial effect of homeopathic drug S jambolanum on carbohydrate and lipid metabolic disorders on streptozotocin induced diabetic rat.

Materials and Methods:

Diabetes induction in Wistar strain rat was performed as per standard method using streptozotocin at the dose of 4 mg/100 gm body weight. Activities of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in hepatic tissue, and glycogen content in hepatic and muscular tissues were assessed biochemically following the standard protocols. Serum lipid profile level and activities of GOT and GPT in serum were measured as per standard method using specific kits.

Results:

The homeopathic drug, mother tincture of S jambolanum significantly decreased fasting blood glucose levels and improved carbohydrate metabolic key enzyme activities in hepatic tissue i.e., hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphatase in diabetic rats. Alongside, serum lipid profile biomarkers i.e., triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDLc) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) levels were significantly ameliorated in homeopathic drug supplemented diabetic animals in compared with the untreated diabetic animal. Side by side, the S jambolanum has the capacity to attenuate diabetes induced hepatic injury in model animal, which has been assessed here by the recovery of GOT and GPT activities in serum of drug treated diabetic animal.

Conclusion:

The result of the present study indicated that the homeopathic drug S jambolanum (mother tincture) has a protective effect on diabetic induced carbohydrate and lipid metabolic disorders in STZ-induced diabetic animal.

The potentized homeopathic drug, Lycopodium clavatum (5C and 15C) has anti-cancer effect on hela cells in vitro

Cancer is a disease that needs a multi-faceted approach from different systems of medicine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether homeopathically-potentized ultra-high dilutions of Lycopodium Clavatum (LC-5C and LC-15C, respectively) have any anti-cancer effects on HeLa cells. Cells were exposed to either LC-5C (diluted below Avogadro's limit, i.e., 10(-10)) or LC-15C (diluted beyond Avogadro's limit, i.e., 10(-30)) (drug-treated) or to 30% succussed ethanol ("vehicle" of the drug). The drug-induced modulation in the percent cell viability, the onset of apoptosis, and changes in the expressions of Bax, Bcl2, caspase 3, and Apaf proteins in inter-nucleosomal DNA, in mitochondrial membrane potentials and in the release of cytochrome-c were analyzed by utilizing different experimental protocols. Results revealed that administration of LC-5C and LC-15C had little or no cytotoxic effect in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells, but caused considerable cell death through apoptosis in cancer (HeLa) cells, which was evident from the induction of DNA fragmentation, the increases in the expressions of protein and mRNA of caspase 3 and Bax, and the decreases in the expressions of Bcl2 and Apaf and in the release of cytochrome-c. Thus, the highly-diluted, dynamized homeopathic remedies LC-5C and LC-15C demonstrated their capabilities to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, signifying their possible use as supportive medicines in cancer therapy.

Relative efficacies of insulin and poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid encapsulated nano-insulin in modulating certain significant biomarkers in arsenic intoxicated L6 cells

The present study evaluates relative efficacies of insulin and PLGA-loaded-nano-insulin (NIn) in combating arsenic-induced impairment of glucose uptake, insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction in L6 skeletal muscle cells. L6 cells were treated with 0.5 mM sodium arsenite for 30 min and then the cells were further treated with either 100 nM insulin (standardized dose) or either of the two doses, 50 nM and 100 nM of nano-insulin. Various biomarkers like pyruvate-kinase and glucokinase, ATP/ADP ratio, mitochondrial membrane potential, cytosolic release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, cell membrane potential and calcium-ion level were studied and analyzed to ascertain the status of mitochondrial functioning in all experimental and control sets of L6 cells. The size, morphology and zeta potential of formulated NIn were determined by using dynamic light scattering, scanning electronic and atomic-force microscopies. Expression of signalling cascades like GLUT4, IRS1, IRS2, UCP2, PI3, and p38 was critically analyzed. Overall results suggested that both insulin and NIn improved mitochondrial functioning in arsenite-intoxicated L6 cells, NIn showing better effects at a much lower dose (at nearly 10-fold decreased dose) than that produced by insulin. Nano-insulin being non-toxic and effective at a much lesser dose, therefore, has potential for therapeutic use in the management of arsenic induced diabetes.

Apigenin-induced apoptosis in A375 and A549 cells through selective action and dysfunction of mitochondria

We isolated apigenin (5,7,4'-trihydroxy flavone) from ethanolic extract of Lycopodium clavatum (LC) used as a homeopathic mother tincture for treatment of various diseases. We assessed the anticancer potentials of the compound using human malignant melanoma cell line A375 and a lung carcinoma cell line A549 and focussed on its putative molecular mechanism of action on apoptosis induction. We examined the cytotoxicity of apigenin in both cancer cells and normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). A375 cells were more prone to apigenin-induced apoptosis, as compared with A549 cells after 24 h of treatment, while PBMC showed little or no cytotoxicity to apigenin. We also evaluated the effects of apigenin on interaction with DNA by comparative analysis of circular dichroism spectral data and melting temperature profiles (Tm) of calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) treated with or without apigenin. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in mitochondria, super-oxide dismutase and total thiol group (GSH) activities were also analyzed. The apoptotic process involved mitochondrial pathway associated with apigenin-DNA interaction, DNA fragmentation, ROS accumulation, cytochrome c (cyt c) release and mitochondrial transmembrane potential depolarization, Bax, caspase 3, 9, PARP, up-regulation, Bcl-2 down-regulation and down-regulation of cyt c in the mitochondrial fraction. Results of mitochondrial inner membrane swelling measurements, intracellular ADP/ATP ratio and ATPase activity showed that in A549 cells, apigenin did not appear to directly target the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system but rather acted at an upstream step to activate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. However, apigenin could directly target and impair mitochondrial function in A375 cells by breaking down their oxidative phosphorylation system. Collectively, these results suggest that apigenin exhibits anticancer potential in A375 and A549 cells that may be mediated through DNA interaction, damage and mitochondrial dysfunction either by direct or indirect action on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system.

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid loaded nano-insulin has greater potentials of combating arsenic induced hyperglycemia in mice: some novel findings

Diabetes is a menacing problem, particularly to inhabitants of groundwater arsenic contaminated areas needing new medical approaches. This study examines if PLGA loaded nano-insulin (NIn), administered either intraperitoneally (i.p.) or through oral route, has a greater cost-effective anti-hyperglycemic potential than that of insulin in chronically arsenite-fed hyperglycemic mice. The particle size, morphology and zeta potential of nano-insulin were determined using dynamic light scattering method, scanning electronic and atomic force microscopies. The ability of the nano-insulin (NIn) to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) was also checked. Circular dichroic spectroscopic (CD) data of insulin and nano-insulin in presence or absence of arsenic were compared. Several diabetic markers in different groups of experimental and control mice were assessed. The mitochondrial functioning through indices like cytochrome c, pyruvate-kinase, glucokinase, ATP/ADP ratio, mitochondrial membrane potential, cell membrane potential and calcium-ion level was also evaluated. Expressions of the relevant marker proteins and mRNAs like insulin, GLUT2, GLUT4, IRS1, IRS2, UCP2, PI3, PPARγ, CYP1A1, Bcl2, caspase3 and p38 for tracking-down the signaling cascade were also analyzed. Results revealed that i.p.-injected nano-encapsulated-insulin showed better results; NIn, due to its smaller size, faster mobility, site-specific release, could cross BBB and showed positive modulation in mitochondrial signaling cascades and other downstream signaling molecules in reducing arsenic-induced-hyperglycemia. CD data indicated that nano-insulin had less distorted secondary structure as compared with that of insulin in presence of arsenic. Thus, overall analyses revealed that PLGA nano-insulin showed better efficacy in combating arsenite-induced-hyperglycemia than that of insulin and therefore, has greater potentials for use in nano-encapsulated form.

Dihydroxy-isosteviol-methyl-ester, an active biological component of Pulsatilla nigricans, reduces arsenic induced cellular dysfunction in testis of male mice

Arsenic contamination has become a menacing health concern, warranting search for new drugs capable of ameliorating its toxicity. Extract of Pulsatilla nigricans is occasionally used as traditional medicine including homeopathy to combat/alleviate toxicity-related symptoms of known or unknown cause. Mice were intoxicated with a sub-lethal dose of sodium arsenite (20mg/kg b.w./day, determined through a range-finding trial) and the effect on testicular toxicity after 30, 60, and 90 days was examined. We observed an increased level of reactive oxygen species, cellular damage in testes of SA-intoxicated mice and further analysed expressions of apoptotic signal proteins and mRNA like Bax, Bcl2 and caspase3. Treatment with EEPN showed significant inhibition/reversal of the arsenic-induced toxic effect in testis and reduced oxidative stress through modulating expressions of signal proteins, thereby inhibiting the progression of events of apoptosis in testis cells and sperm. Therefore, EEPN has potentials for therapeutic use in arsenic- induced reproductive toxicity.

Ameliorative effects of Syzygium jambolanum extract and its poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid nano-encapsulated form on arsenic-induced hyperglycemic stress: a multi-parametric evaluation

In South East Asia, groundwater arsenic contamination has become a great menace. Chronic arsenic intoxication leads to a hyperglycemic condition in animals and man. Because of undesirable side-effects and affordability, orthodox medicine, like insulin, is not preferred by many who like natural products instead. Unfortunately, such natural products mostly lack scientific validation. Therefore, we became interested in assessing the efficacy of the ethanolic seed extract of Syzygium jambolanum (SJ), traditionally used against diabetic conditions. We also formulated poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-encapsulated nano-SJ (NSJ) and tested whether the ameliorative potentials of SJ could be enhanced by nano-encapsulation. In this study, we conducted both in vitro (in L6 cells) and in vivo (in mice) experiments to assess the relative efficacy of SJ and NSJ. We characterized the physico-chemical features of NSJ by atomic force microscopy and critically analyzed several bio-markers and signal proteins associated with arsenic-induced stress and hyperglycemia. We also determined the relative ameliorative potentials of SJ and NSJ by using standard protocols. NSJ could cross the blood brain barrier in mice. Overall results suggested that NSJ had a greater potential than that of SJ, indicating the possibility of using NSJ in the future drug design and management of arsenic-induced hyperglycemia and stress.

Protective role of morin, a flavonoid, against high glucose induced oxidative stress mediated apoptosis in primary rat hepatocytes

Apoptosis is an early event of liver damage in diabetes and oxidative stress has been linked to accelerate the apoptosis in hepatocytes. Therefore, the compounds that can scavenge ROS may confer regulatory effects on high-glucose induced apoptosis. In the present study, primary rat hepatocytes were exposed to high concentration (40 mM) of glucose. At this concentration decreased cell viability and enhanced ROS generation was observed. Depleted antioxidant status of hepatocytes under high glucose stress was also observed as evident from transcriptional level and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Further, mitochondrial depolarisation was accompanied by the loss of mitochondrial integrity and altered expression of Bax and Bcl-2. Increased translocation of apoptotic proteins like AIF (Apoptosis inducing factor) & Endo-G (endonuclease-G) from its resident place mitochondria to nucleus was also observed. Cyt-c residing in the inter-membrane space of mitochondria also translocated to cytoplasm. These apoptotic proteins initiated caspase activation, DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation, increased apoptotic DNA content in glucose treated hepatocytes, suggesting mitochondria mediated apoptotic mode of cell death. Morin, a dietary flavonoid from Psidium guajava was effective in increasing the cell viability and decreasing the ROS level. It maintained mitochondrial integrity, inhibited release of apoptotic proteins from mitochondria, prevented DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation and hypodiploid DNA upon exposure to high glucose. This study confirms the capacity of dietary flavonoid Morin in regulating apoptosis induced by high glucose via mitochondrial mediated pathway through intervention of oxidative stress.