Quercetin protects rat liver against lead-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis

The combined analysis of transcriptomics and metabolomics reveals the mechanisms by which dietary quercetin regulates growth and immunity in Penaeus vannamei

As a potent antioxidant, the flavonoid compound quercetin (QUE) has been widely used in the farming of aquatic animals. However, there are fewer reports of the beneficial effects, especially in improving immunity of Penaeus vannamei by QUE. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary QUE on growth, apoptosis, antioxidant and immunity of P. vannamei. It also explored the potential mechanisms of QUE in improving the growth and immunity of P. vannamei. P. vannamei were fed diets with QUE for 60 days. The results revealed that QUE (0.5 or 1.0 g/kg) ameliorated the growth, and the expressions of genes related to apoptosis, antioxidant, and immunity. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differential metabolites (DMs) obtained through transcriptomics and metabolomics, respectively, enriched in pathways related to nutritional metabolism such as lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism. After QUE addition, especially at 0.5 g/kg, DEGs were enriched into the functions of response to stimulus and antioxidant activity, and the pathways of HIF-1 signaling pathway, C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and FoxO signaling pathway. In conclusion, dietary QUE can ameliorate growth, apoptosis, antioxidant and immunity of P. vannamei, the appropriate addition amount was 0.5 g/kg rather than 1.0 g/kg. Regulations of QUE on nutrient metabolism and immune-related pathways, and bioactive metabolites, were important factors for improving the aforementioned abilities in P. vannamei.

Perfusion Techniques in Kidney Allograft Preservation to Reduce Ischemic Reperfusion Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The limited supply and rising demand for kidney transplantation has led to the use of allografts more susceptible to ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI) and oxidative stress to expand the donor pool. Organ preservation and procurement techniques, such as machine perfusion (MP) and normothermic regional perfusion (NRP), have been developed to preserve allograft function, though their long-term outcomes have been more challenging to investigate. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the benefits of MP and NRP compared to traditional preservation techniques. PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were queried, and of 13,794 articles identified, 54 manuscripts were included (n = 41 MP; n = 13 NRP). MP decreased the rates of 12-month graft failure (OR 0.67; 95%CI 0.55, 0.80) and other perioperative outcomes such as delayed graft function (OR 0.65; 95%CI 0.54, 0.79), primary nonfunction (OR 0.63; 95%CI 0.44, 0.90), and hospital length of stay (15.5 days vs. 18.4 days) compared to static cold storage. NRP reduced the rates of acute rejection (OR 0.48; 95%CI 0.35, 0.67) compared to in situ perfusion. Overall, MP and NRP are effective techniques to mitigate IRI and play an important role in safely expanding the donor pool to satisfy the increasing demands of kidney transplantation.

Lead induced genotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) at environmentally relevant concentration: Nrf2-Keap1 regulated stress response and expression of biomarker genes

Genotoxic and hepatotoxic potentials of Pb at an environmentally relevant concentration (5 ppm) in zebrafish were investigated in the present study. Erythrocytic nuclear abnormality tests revealed the increased frequencies of abnormal erythrocytes after Pb exposure, indicating a strong genotoxic potential of Pb. Multiple stress-related parameters were further evaluated in liver, the major detoxifying organ. Pb caused increased production of ROS, which in turn caused severe oxidative stress. As a result, lipid peroxidation was increased, whereas reduced glutathione level and catalase activity was decreased. Alterations in liver histoarchitecture also served as evidence of Pb-induced hepatotoxicity. Pb-induced ROS stress triggered upregulation of Nrf2, Nqo1, Ho1; downregulation of Keap1, and altered mRNA expressions of Mn-sod, Cu/Zn-sod, gpx1, cyp1a, ucp2 suggesting involvement of Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling in cellular defence. Nrf2-keap1 is a sensitive biomarker of Pb-induced ROS stress. Overexpression of Hsp70 and other genes in hepatocytes might help cell survival under oxidative stress generation.

Protective Role of Myricetin and Fisetin Against Nephrotoxicity Caused by Lead Acetate Exposure through Up-regulation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signalling Pathway

The effect of various flavonoids against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by lead exposure has been investigated. However, the protective effects of myricetin (MYC) and fisetin (FST), which are known to have potent antioxidant properties, against nephrotoxicity caused by exposure to lead acetate (LA), the water-soluble form of lead, have not been investigated. Our study investigated the protective role of these flavonoids against LA intoxication-induced nephrotoxicity. In our study, 42 male rats were used. The rats were randomly selected and divided into 6 groups. These groups were: control, LA (100 g/kg), LA + MYC (100 mg/kg), LA + MYC (200 mg/kg), LA + FST (100 mg/kg) and LA + FST (200 mg/kg). All chemicals were administered daily by gavage for 28 days. According to the experimental protocol, the animals were sacrificed and their kidney tissues were isolated. Serum biochemical parameters, histological examinations, levels of several trace elements, oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters at both biochemical and molecular levels in kidney tissues were examined. After LA administration, tissue lead levels increased and zinc levels decreased. This situation was reversed by MYC and FST treatment. Oxidative stress and inflammatory response were increased in the kidney tissue of LA-treated rats and renal function was impaired. It was observed that both doses of MYC and high dose of FST could prevent nephrotoxicity. Oral administration of both doses of MYC and high dose FST ameliorated the changes in biochemical, oxidative and inflammatory parameters. Restoration of normal renal tissue architecture was also demonstrated by histological studies. MYC and FST were found to have promising biological activity against LA-induced nephrotoxicity, acting by attenuating inflammation and oxidative stress and improving antioxidant status.

Preservation Efficacy of a Quercetin and Sucrose Solution for Warm Ischemically Damaged Porcine Liver Grafts

BACKGROUND

The University of Wisconsin (UW) solution is the gold standard for preserving the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. For renal preservation, the addition of the flavonoid, quercetin (QE), to the preservation solution reduces damage to renal tubular cells, and the addition of sucrose (Suc) is also beneficial for preservation. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of QE and Suc on porcine livers in terms of warm and cold injury and to evaluate whether their use improves ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury after simple cold storage (CS).

METHODS

We tested porcine livers procured after 30 minutes of warm ischemia followed by preservation for 6 hours under the following 2 conditions: group 1, preserved with the CS/UW solution (n = 4); group 2, preserved with the CS/UW solution containing Que 33.1 μM and Suc 0.1 M (n = 6). All livers were evaluated using an ex vivo isolated liver reperfusion model with saline-diluted autologous blood.

RESULTS

Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase levels in group 2 were significantly lower at 30 minutes of reperfusion than in group 1. Furthermore, histologic evaluation by hematoxylin and eosin staining showed significantly fewer morphologic changes in group 2 than in group 1, as indicated by the total Suzuki score. Group 2 also had significantly better scores for sinusoidal congestion and hepatocyte cytoplasmic vacuolization.

CONCLUSION

Adding Que and Suc to the UW solution can effectively prevent cold injury in livers donated after circulatory death.

Pharmacological effect of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach extracts against lead-induced toxicity in rats

Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach (Papilionaceae) is a medicinal plant, cultivated in northern areas of Pakistan. The consumption of trace minerals (lead) is very toxic to the vital organs of the body, therefore the overcome of these minerals is very necessary. In this regard, this study aimed to assess the potential pharmacological effect of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach against pb-induced oxidative stress, histological changes in Pb-induced rats' liver and kidney, and anti-inflammatory effect. The metal concentrations in liver and kidney homogenates were measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH and FRAP assay. Pb concentrations were significantly higher in liver and kidney homogenates after injection of Pb acetate was given intraperitoneally (45.2 ± 6.8 and 58.8 ± 7.9, respectively; p < .0001). The level of Pb in liver and kidney homogenates was significantly reduced by aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach. The Pb + Aq-600 mg/kg-treated rats exhibited a protective effect on hepatocytes cells against Pb-induced liver injury and restored the cells of the kidney. Pb + Aq-600 mg/kg showed higher antioxidant activity as compared to other treated groups. The highest decreased MDA level was found in liver and kidney homogenate of Pb + Aq-600 mg/kg rats (11.2 ± 1.51 nmol/mg; p < .001) and GSH and CAT levels tended to normal after treatment of Pb + Aq-600 mg/kg in rats. The ALAD, ALT, AST, and ALP level were enhanced and tended to be normal after the Aq-400 and Aq-600 mg/kg treatment in Pb-exposed rats. The result showed that 600 mg/kg Aq + Pb exhibited significant (p < .001) anti-inflammatory activity. The findings of this study concluded that treatment of the aqueous extract of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach reduces the renal and hepatic damage in Pb-induced rats and it also decreases oxidative stress via improving antioxidant components.

The Allium triquetrum L. Leaves Mitigated Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity Induced by Lead Acetate in Wistar Rats

The aim of this study was to scrutinize the possible mitigating role of leaves' Allium triquetrum L. against the toxicity of lead acetate on liver and kidney markers of Wistar rat. Lead acetate (Pb) and leaves' aqueous extracts (L) were orally administrated for 3 weeks. Rats were divided into the control, Pb group (500 mg/kg body weight/day), positive controls L (2g, 3g, 4g/kg BW/day), along with three combined groups of the same doses (Pb-L1, Pb-L2, Pb-L3). The levels of plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total proteins (TP), albumin (ALB), urea, creatinine (Cr), and uric acid (UA), as well as the hepatic and the renal malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were estimated. Results exhibited a significant increase in plasma AST, ALT, ALP, urea, creatinine, uric acid, and MDA levels of the Pb group compared to the control, with the exception of TP, ALB, GSH levels, and GPx activities that were significantly diminished, though the co-administration of garlic extracts (Pb-L) revealed a significant decrease in all mentioned markers, excluding the TP, ALB, GSH, and GPx levels. Likewise, Pb caused histological injuries in the hepatic and renal tissues of rats, while the co-administration of leaves' wild garlic has reduced such effect. Thought, the Pb-L has attenuated the Pb-induced toxicity in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, the aqueous extracts of A. triquetrum have the potential to alleviate Pb hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity through the modulation of most biomarkers in Wistar rat.

Two birds with one stone: YQSSF regulates both proliferation and apoptosis of bone marrow cells to relieve chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Yiqi Shengsui formula (YQSSF) is a commonly used formula to treat chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression, but little is known about its therapeutic mechanisms.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

This study aims to examine the effect of YQSSF in treating myelosuppression and explore its mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A myelosuppression BALB/c mouse model was established by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX). The efficacy of YQSSF in alleviating chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression was evaluated by blood cell count, immune organ (thymus, spleen, liver) index, bone marrow nucleated cell (BMNC) count and histopathological analysis of bone marrow and spleen. Then, ultra-performance liquid chromatograph quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) was performed to analyze the ingredients of YQSSF extract. Key effects and potential mechanism of YQSSF extract in alleviating myelosuppression were predicted by network pharmacology method. Finally, cell cycle and TUNEL staining of bone marrow cells was detected to verify the key effects, and RT-qPCR or Western blotting were performed to measure the gene and protein expressions of the effect targets respectively to confirm the predicted mechanism of YQSSF for myelosuppression.

RESULTS

YQSSF up-regulated the number of peripheral blood leukocytes and BMNC, reduced spleen index and liver index, improved the pathological morphology of bone marrow and spleen. A total of 40 ingredients were isolated from YQSSF extract using UPLC-Q/TOF-MS analysis. Network pharmacology revealed that YQSSF regulated both proliferation and apoptosis to alleviate myelosuppression. Finally, YQSSF decreased G0/G1 ratio, increased the proportion of bone marrow cells in S phase and proliferation index (PI), and reduced apoptotic cells in femur bone marrow. RT-qPCR and Western blotting showed that YQSSF up-regulated the expression levels of CDK4, CDK6, CyclinB1, c-Myc and Bcl-2, as well as down-regulated the expression levels of Cyt-c, Fas, Caspase-8/3 and p53.

CONCLUSIONS

YQSSF promotes the proliferation and inhibits the apoptosis of bone marrow cells to relieve chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression.

Chinese Tea Alleviates CCl4-Induced Liver Injury through the NF-κBorNrf2Signaling Pathway in C57BL-6J Mice

Liver injury is a life-threatening condition that is usually caused by excessive alcohol consumption, improperdiet, and stressful lifestyle and can even progress to liver cancer. Tea is a popular beverage with proven health benefits and is known to exert a protective effect on the liver, intestines, and stomach. In this study, we analyzed the therapeutic effects of six kinds of tea on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver injury in a mouse model. The mice were injected with 10 mL/kg 5% CCl₄ to induce liver injury and then given oral gavage of green tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, white tea, black tea, and dark tea, respectively. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured, and the expression levels of inflammation and oxidative stress-related proteins in the liver tissues were quantified. All six kinds of tea partly reduced the liver index, restored the size of the enlarged liver in the CCl₄ model, and decreased the serum levels of ALT and AST. Furthermore, the highly fermented dark tea significantly reduced the expression levels of NF-κB and the downstream inflammatory factors, whereas the unfermented green tea inhibited oxidative stress by activating the antioxidant Nrf2 pathway. Taken together, tea can protect against liver inflammation, and unfermented tea can improve antioxidant levels. Further studies are needed on the bioactive components of tea to develop drugs against liver injury.

Hepatotoxicity and renal toxicity induced by radiation and the protective effect of quercetin in male albino rats

PURPOSE

Although radiation is one of the basic methods commonly used in cancer treatment, it inevitably enters the field of treatment in healthy tissues and is adversely affected by the acute and chronic side effects of radiation. This study evaluated the possible protective effects of quercetin, an antioxidant agent, against liver and kidney damage in rats exposed to a whole-body single dose of radiation (10 Gy of gamma-ray).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study groups were formed as control, sham, quercetin, radiation, quercetin + radiation and radiation + quercetin using 60 male Wistar albino (200-250 g, 3 months old) rats, including 10 rats in each group. The gamma-ray provided by the Co60 teletherapy machine was given to the whole body as external irradiation. According to the groups, quercetin was administered to rats at 50 mg/kg/day via oral gavage before or after radiation administration. The rats were sacrificed the day after irradiation and the extracted tissue samples from all groups were compared histologically and immunohistochemically. DNA damage was determined by the neutral comet assay technique. Also, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH) were evaluated in liver and kidney tissues by the ELISA method.

RESULTS

Histopathological changes were observed altered morphology of liver and kidney tissues in the radiation groups. Sinusoidal dilatations, vacuolization, and hepatic parenchyma necrosis in the liver, while in kidneys, glomerular shrinkage, widened Bowman's space, tubular dilatation, and inflammation were evident. TNF-α, IL1-α, HIF1-α, and caspase 3 immunoreactivities in tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry. High caspase 3 positive cell number confirmed apoptosis, the comet parameters were decreased in the quercetin + radiation group. When compared to the control group, the exposure to radiation showed a marked elevation in MDA which was accompanied by high GSH. This damage was reduced in the quercetin + radiation group.

CONCLUSIONS

With the results obtained from the study; Quercetin is thought to have a protective potential against radiation-induced liver and kidney damage due to its radioprotective effect.

The anti-androgenic effect of quercetin on hyperandrogenism and ovarian dysfunction induced in a dehydroepiandrosterone rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multi-factorial endocrine disorder associated with hyperandrogenism. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) administration to prepubertal rats stimulates androgen biosynthesis and generation of the PCOS model. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-androgenic effects of quercetin (Q) in comparison with metformin (MET) on hyperandrogenism and ovarian dysfunction in a DHEA-induced PCOS rat model. After induction of PCOS, female rats were allocated into six groups with 7 rats in each group: normal control; PCOS (DHEA), MET (25 mg/kg, oral administration), Q (25 mg/kg, oral administration), DHEA + MET (25 mg/kg, oral administration), and DHEA + Q (25 mg/kg, oral administration) for 28 days. MET and Q individually reduced body weight, serum free testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH), and LH/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio in the PCOS rats. Both treatments elevated estradiol (E2) level, ovarian aromatase protein content, and E2/free T ratio in the PCOS rats. Additionally, MET and Q increased preantral, antral, and preovulatory follicles and corpora lutea counts, while both treatments decreased atretic follicle count and eliminated the formation of cysts in the PCOS rats. MET and Q reduced ovarian Bax and elevated Bcl-2 protein abundance in the PCOS rats. Our study revealed that Q is as effective as MET in reducing hyperandrogenism via decreasing free T level and improving hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function. The results suggest that MET and Q may enhance E2 concentration, ovarian aromatase protein content, folliculogenesis, and decrease atresia via attenuation of hyperandrogenism in PCOS rats.

Dietary α-lipoic acid can alleviate the bioaccumulation, oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and inflammation induced by lead (Pb) in Channa argus

This study aims to evaluate the effects of dietary α-lipoic acid (α-LA) on bioaccumulation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in Channa argus after 28 d of lead (Pb) exposure. A total of 300 fish were divided into five groups: the first group was the control group and the other four groups were exposed to waterborne Pb (800 ppb) and fed α-LA diets supplemented with 0, 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg. The results demonstrated that dietary α-LA effectively reduced the Pb accumulation in the liver, kidney, gill, intestine, and muscle of C. argus after exposure to Pb. Meanwhile, dietary α-LA reversed alterations in the biochemical parameters (Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cortisol (COR), and creatinine (CRE)) and immunity parameters (myeloperoxidase (MPO), complement 3 (C3), lysozyme (LYS), complement 4 (C4), C-reactive protein (CRP), and immunoglobulin M (IgM)) in the serum of fish caused by Pb. Pb-induced reduction of antioxidant enzyme activities (Catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)) was inhibited by dietary α-LA. And malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PC) content exhibited an opposite trend. Meanwhile, dietary supplemented with α-LA was found to relieve Pb-induced oxidative stress by downregulating Keap1 mRNA expression levels and upregulating the expression levels of CAT, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), GSH-Px, and Cu/Zn SOD. Furthermore, α-LA supplementation reversed Pb-induced upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes (interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)), Pro-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), caspase (Cas)-3, and tumor protein p53 (p53)) and Hsp70, and downregulation of anti-inflammatory genes (IL-10, inhibitor of κBα (IκBα), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)) and anti-apoptosis gene (B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)). Overall, dietary α-LA supplementation could enhance the innate immunity and antioxidant capacity of fish, attenuating the Pb accumulation, and cell apoptosis after being exposed to Pb. Furthermore, dietary α-LA could relieve Pb-induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress of fish via regulating NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling, respectively.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: The role of quercetin and its therapeutic implications

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common form of chronic liver disease, affecting almost one-third of the general population and 75% of obese patients with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this article is to review the current evidence concerning the role of quercetin, a natural compound and flavonoid, and its possible therapeutic effects on this modern-day disease. Despite the fact that the exact pathophysiological mechanisms through which quercetin has a hepatoprotective effect on NAFLD are still not fully elucidated, this review clearly demonstrates that this flavonoid has potent antioxidative stress action and inhibitory effects on hepatocyte apoptosis, inflammation, and generation of reactive oxygen species, factors which are linked to the development of the disease. NAFLD is closely associated with increased dietary fat consumption, especially in Western countries. The hepatoprotective effect of quercetin against NAFLD merits serious consideration and further validation by future studies.

Testicular deficiency associated with exposure to cypermethrin, imidacloprid, and chlorpyrifos in adult rats

The testicular deficiency associated with exposure to three widely used insecticides in Egyptian agriculture was evaluated. Animals were orally treated with sub-lethal dose (1/50 of the oral LD₅₀) of cypermethrin (CYP), imidacloprid (IMC), and chlorpyrifos (CPF) at 5, 9 and 1.9 mg/kg/day, respectively, five times a week for one month. The CYP, IMC, and CPF exposure resulted in a significant decline in animal body weight, sperm count, motility, normality, and viability with increased head and tail deformities. Significant reduction in serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testis superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. In contrast, catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and protein carbonyl content (PCC) levels were significantly stimulated. Jointly, obtained results were confirmed by microscopic examination of testis sections. The present data concluded that the CYP, IMC, and CPF have a public health impact and violently interferes with male rat reproductive system.

Plant Polyphenols: Potential Antidotes for Lead Exposure

Lead is one of the most common heavy metal elements and has high biological toxicity. Long-term lead exposure will induce the contamination of animal feed, water, and food, which can cause chronic lead poisoning including nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity in humans and animals. In the past few decades, lead has caused widespread concern because of its significant threat to health. A large number of in vitro and animal experiments have shown that oxidative stress plays a key role in lead toxicity, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway can also be induced by lead toxicity. Therefore, plant polyphenols have attracted attention, with their advantages of being natural antioxidants and having low toxicity. Plant polyphenols can resist lead toxicity by chelating lead with their special chemical molecular structure. In addition, scavenging active oxygen and improving the level of antioxidant enzymes, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptosis are also the key to relieving lead poisoning by plant polyphenols. Various plant polyphenols have been suggested to be useful in alleviating lead toxicity in animals and humans and are believed to have good application prospects.

Extraction and Identification of Two Flavonoids in Phlomoides hyoscyamoides as an Endemic Plant of Iran: The Role of Quercetin in the Activation of the Glutathione Peroxidase, the Improvement of the Hydroxyproline and Protein Oxidation in Bile Duct-Ligated Rats

BACKGROUND

Cholestatic liver disease, a serious chronic condition that develops progressive hepatic degeneration through free radicals.

OBJECTIVE

The present study was designed to extract and identify two flavonoids in Phlomoides hyoscyamoides plant, native to Iran and evaluate the role of quercetin identified on the liver injury among bile ductligated rats.

METHODS

This study was conducted on 25 male Wistar rats within three groups of sham control, mere bile duct-ligated, and bile duct-ligated with quercetin. The bile duct-ligated animals received quercetin at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 10 days, followed by biochemical tests, oxidative stress markers, activity of antioxidant enzymes and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Molecular docking was used to explore the interactive behavior of quercetin with glutathione peroxidase.

RESULTS

According to analyses of the obtained extract, two main active ingredients of P. hyoscyamoides were rutin and quercetin. Bile duct-ligated group showed a significant liver necrosis, a clear increase in plasma and tissue oxidative stress parameters, and a decrease in glutathione peroxidase activity as compared to sham control group. Quercetin injection in bile duct-ligated rats resulted in significant decrease in hydroxyproline, protein carbonyl and histopathologic indexes and significant increase in glutathione peroxidase activity (P-value≤0.05). Based on the molecular docking, the quercetin was able to regulate the glutathione peroxidase activity.

CONCLUSION

The quercetin acts as an enzyme inducer by renewing the glutathione peroxidase activity and inhibiting the oxidation of proteins and hence decreases the oxidative stress. These results could be a sign of confirming the positive role of quercetin in attenuating the liver damage and degeneration.

Renal Delivery of Pharmacologic Agents During Machine Perfusion to Prevent Ischaemia-Reperfusion Injury: From Murine Model to Clinical Trials

Donor organ shortage still remains a serious obstacle for the access of wait-list patients to kidney transplantation, the best treatment for End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD). To expand the number of transplants, the use of lower quality organs from older ECD or DCD donors has become an established routine but at the price of increased incidence of Primary Non-Function, Delay Graft Function and lower-long term graft survival. In the last years, several improvements have been made in the field of renal transplantation from surgical procedure to preservation strategies. To improve renal outcomes, research has focused on development of innovative and dynamic preservation techniques, in order to assess graft function and promote regeneration by pharmacological intervention before transplantation. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of these new preservation strategies by machine perfusions and pharmacological interventions at different timing possibilities: in the organ donor, ex-vivo during perfusion machine reconditioning or after implementation in the recipient. We will report therapies as anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, senolytics agents, complement inhibitors, HDL, siRNA and H2S supplementation. Renal delivery of pharmacologic agents during preservation state provides a window of opportunity to treat the organ in an isolated manner and a crucial route of administration. Even if few studies have been reported of transplantation after ex-vivo drugs administration, targeting the biological pathway associated to kidney failure (i.e. oxidative stress, complement system, fibrosis) might be a promising therapeutic strategy to improve the quality of various donor organs and expand organ availability.

Albicanol antagonizes Cd-induced apoptosis through a NO/iNOS-regulated mitochondrial pathway in chicken liver cells

Cadmium (Cd) induces hepatocyte injury by oxidative stress. Albicanol is a sesquiterpenoid extracted from the medicinal plant Dryopteris fragrans that has previously been shown to exhibit anti-aging and antioxidant activity. In this study, we explored the mechanism of albicanol inhibition of the Cd-induced apoptosis of chicken hepatoma cells (LMH) by treating these cells with CdCl2 (25 μM) and/or albicanol (2.5 × 10-5 μg mL-1) for 24 h. Under Cd treatment, the research results showed that the apoptosis rate markedly increased in LMH cells. In addition, the iNOS activity and NO content increased significantly, which promoted the expressions of genes associated with the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway (Bax, CytC, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9) and inhibited the expression of Bcl-2 in this pathway. However, Cd + albicanol co-treatment significantly reduced the apoptosis rate and the expressions of iNOS and genes associated with the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway (Bax, CytC, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9), and promoted the expression of Bcl-2 in this pathway. In addition, molecular docking supported a link between the albicanol ligand and the iNOS receptor. These results indicated that albicanol can inhibit Cd-induced apoptosis by regulating the NO/iNOS-mediated mitochondrial pathway.

The Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin in Parkinson's Disease: Insights into its Molecular and Cellular Regulation

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). PD is a multifactorial disorder, with several different factors being suggested to play a synergistic pathophysiological role, including oxidative stress, autophagy, underlying pro-inflammatory events and neurotransmitters abnormalities. Overall, PD can be viewed as the product of a complex interaction of environmental factors acting on a given genetic background. The importance of this subject has gained more attention to discover novel therapies to prevent as well as treat PD. According to previous research, drugs used to treat PD have indicated significant limitations. Therefore, the role of flavonoids has been extensively studied in PD treatment. Quercetin, a plant flavonol from the flavonoid group, has been considered as a supplemental therapy for PD. Quercetin has pharmacological functions in PD by controlling different molecular pathways. Although few studies intended to evaluate the basis for the use of quercetin in the context of PD have been conducted so far, at present, there is very little evidence available addressing the underlying mechanisms of action. Various principal aspects of these treatment procedures remain unknown. Here, currently existing knowledge supporting the use of quercetin for the clinical management of PD has been reviewed.

A Novel Preservation Solution Containing Quercetin and Sucrose for Porcine Kidney Transplantation

In organ transplantation, the University of Wisconsin (UW) solution has been the gold standard for organ preservation. Quercetin (Que) has numerous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and sucrose (Suc) may be effective for cold storage (CS). This study aimed to investigate the in vitro protective effect of Que and Suc on cold injury to the kidney and to determine whether Que + Suc could improve ischemia-reperfusion injury during CS and hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) in autologous transplantation models.

METHODS

BHK-21 cells were stored at 4°C for 3 days in UW solution for CS/machine perfusion (CS/MP-UW) with Que (33.1 μM, 3.3 μM, 0.33 μM) and Suc (0.1 M). In a porcine model of renal autologous transplantation, left kidney grafts were preserved under 3 conditions: group 1, CS preservation for 24 hours; group 2, CS preservation for 22 hours and HOPE with CS/MP-UW solution for 2 hours; and group 3, identical preservation as group 2, with Que and Suc added to the solution. Animals were euthanized on day 7 after autologous transplantation.

RESULTS

After 3 days of CS preservation, the CS/MP-UW solution with Que (33.1 μM, 3.3 μM) and Suc showed significant cell protection against cold injury. In the porcine model of renal autologous transplantation, the last blood Cre level and the blood lipid hydroperoxide on posttransplantation day 2 were significantly different between group 1 and group 3. Moreover, the total endothelial, glomerular, tubular, interstitial (EGTI) histology score in the kidney tissue was also significantly different. Regarding the change in renal resistance in HOPE, the decrease observed in group 3 was significantly larger than that in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the addition of Que and Suc to a UW solution can improve kidney preservation and could potentially enhance the outcome of kidney transplantation.

Nanocurcumin versus mesenchymal stem cells in ameliorating the deleterious effects in the cadmium-induced testicular injury: A crosstalk between oxidative and apoptotic markers

Cadmium (Cd), a grave occupational pollutant, can result in; testicular damage. This study was designed to distinguish the potential effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) versus that of curcumin nanoemulsion on Cd-induced testicular damage. Fifty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were distributed into five groups; control, sham control, Cd-treated, stem cell-treated and nanocurcumin-treated groups. Histological, immune histochemical; caspase 3 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and CD 68, testosterone levels, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde (MDA)/glutathione (GSH) superoxide, dismutase (SOD), Western blot; B-cell lymphoma (Bcl-2), BCL2-Associated X Protein (BAX), BAX/Bcl-2 ratio and morphometry were done. Cadmium-treated group showed degenerated, detached seminiferous tubules, vacuolations and wide interstitial spaces containing fluid exudates. The same group revealed increased expression of BAX, BAX/Bcl-2 ratio, caspase 3, CD 68 and increased mean values of MDA, NO. Concomitantly, Cd has significant reduction in PCNA, Bcl-2 and sperm cell count when compared to control group. BM-MSCs- and nanocurcumin-treated groups revealed well-structured tubules and were perceived to expressively enhance the deleterious changes induced by Cd. The injurious changes on the testis induced by Cd were obviously improved when treated with either MSCs or nano-curcumin. BM-MSCs exerted more ameliorative changes.

Antagonistic effect of selenium on lead-induced neutrophil apoptosis in chickens via miR-16-5p targeting of PiK3R1 and IGF1R

Environmental contamination by heavy metals, such as lead (Pb), can lead to severe immune dysfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in regulating immunity. Whether Pb can regulate neutrophil apoptosis through miRNA, and whether selenium (Se) can antagonize this response are still unknown. We treated neutrophils with 12.5 μM (CH₃OO)₂Pb and 1 μM Na₂SeO₃ for 3 h, after which apoptosis was evaluated using acrideine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) dual fluorescent staining and flow cytometry. The results showed that neutrophil apoptosis was significantly increased following Pb exposure, and that this response was prevented upon Se addition. Pb up-regulates miR-16-5p and leads to the subsequent down-regulation of the target genes phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PiK3R1), insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (Pi3K)-protein kinase B (AKT), followed by activation of the tumor protein P53 (P53)-B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)/Bcl-2-Associated X protein (Bax)-cytochrome c (Cytc)-Caspase 9 (mitochondrial apoptotic pathway) and the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 6 (Fas)-Fas-associated death domain protein (Fadd)-Caspase 8 (death receptor pathway). Pb also triggered oxidative stress and indirectly activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. We conclude that miR-16-5p plays a key role in the apoptosis of neutrophils exposed to Pb by down-regulating the expression of PiK3R1 and IGFR1, thereby activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and death receptor pathway. Se can prevent Pb-induced apoptosis.

Alleviated Actions of Plantago albicans Extract on Lead Acetate-Produced Hepatic Damage in Rats Through Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Capacities

The aim of this study was to explore the possible protective mechanisms and to determine the antioxidant capacity of phenolic compounds extracted from Plantago albicans against lead acetate-induced hepatic injury. High performance liquid chromatography-photo diode array/electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA/ESI-MS) assay was used to identify the P. albicans extract phenolic compounds. Animals received 100 mg of lead acetate/kg of body weight (bw) in the drinking water for a period of 30 days. The other groups of rats were orally administered with silymarin (300 mg/kg bw) or the P. albicans extract at two doses (100 and 300 mg/kg of bw), once daily, by gastric gavage for the same time. The P. albicans exhibited high total phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents. The antioxidant in vitro activity demonstrated that the P. albicans exhibits an important effect against deleterious reactive species. The in vivo results showed that P. albicans prevented the lead acetate-induced significant changes on serum and liver lipid levels. In contrast, P. albicans succeeded in improving the biochemical parameters of serum and liver bringing them closer to the normal values of the control group. It also significantly promoted (P < .05) pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB) in the liver of the experimental animals. The evaluated sample with HPLC-PDA/ESI-MS method showed to contain 10 dominant polyphenols, 2 hydroxycinnamic acids (p-coumaric acid and chlorogenic acids), 4 flavones (Apigenin, Luteolin, Cirsiliol, and Luteolin-7-O-rutinoside), and an anthocyanin (cyanidin-3-glucoside). Hence, it can be concluded that P. albicans could be a potent source of health-beneficial phytochemicals providing a novel therapy to protect liver against lead exposure.

Involvement of P450s and nuclear receptors in the hepatoprotective effect of quercetin on liver injury by bacterial lipopolysaccharide

Objective: Quercetin (Que), a flavonoid, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been shown to protect against liver injury induced by various factors. This study was designed to investigate the underlying mechanism of its protective effect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- induced liver damage.Methods: Mice were pretreated with Que for 7 consecutive days and then exposed to LPS. To study the hepatoprotective effect of Que, oxidative stress parameters, inflammatory cytokine levels in liver and serum liver function indexes were examined. Protein and mRNA expression of nuclear orphan receptors and cytochrome P450 enzymes were measured by Western Blotting and qPCR, respectively.Results: Que significantly reduced circulating ALT, AST, ALP, and ameliorated LPS-induced histological alterations. In addition, Que obviously decreased markers of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, Que carried out the hepatoprotective effect via regulation of the expression of nuclear orphan receptors (CAR, PXR) and cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2E1, CYP2D22, CYP3A11).Conclusions: Our findings suggested that Que pretreatment could ameliorate LPS-induced liver injury.

Antioxidant effect of phenolic compounds (PC) at different concentrations in IEC-6 cells: A spectroscopic analysis

Phenolic compounds (PC) have been proposed as natural antioxidant agents that protect cells against oxidative stress-related diseases. Nonetheless, their low bioavailability forecasts controversy about mechanisms on their in vivo scavenging activity against reactive oxygen species (ROS). It has been proposed that PC reduce directly ROS concentration. An alternative or complementary action of PC could be the activation of the cell's antioxidant pathway, involving the regulation of gene expression, like that initiated by the Nrf2 transcription factor. To date there is not enough experimental data to support or discard this possibility. In the present study, we evaluated the use of several PC to prevent peroxidation of macromolecules and to elicit the activation of the Nrf2 transcription factor in H₂O₂-stresed IEC-6 enterocytic cell line. Synchrotron microspectroscopy demonstrated that PC compounds protected proteins, lipids and nucleic acids against oxidation induced by H₂O₂. Immunofluorescence results showed that treatment with quercetin (Qc), catechin (Cat) and capsaicin (Cap) induced the translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus, at the same level as did H₂O₂ treatment, thus mimicking the action of the endogenous cell response to peroxidation. Even though the detailed mechanism still needs to be elucidated, we demonstrated the activation of Nrf2 by PCs in response to oxidative stress.

Abdel Moneim, El-Khadragy MF. Coenzyme Q10 Activates the Antioxidant Machinery and Inhibits the Inflammatory and Apoptotic Cascades Against Lead Acetate-Induced Renal Injury in Rats

The kidney is among the metabolic organs most susceptible to injury, particularly following exposure to xenobiotics and heavy metals. We aimed to explore the potential protective impacts of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on lead acetate (PbAc)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Four experimental groups (n = 7) were applied as follows: control group, CoQ10 alone (10 mg/kg), PbAc alone (20 mg/kg), and PbAc with CoQ10. Exposure to PbAc led to the accumulation of Pb in the kidney and increased urea and creatinine serum levels. The deposition of Pb coupled with the elevation of malondialdehyde and nitrate/nitrite levels along with the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase. Additionally, upon PbAc poisoning, glutathione content and the antioxidant enzymes were depleted along with the downregulation of Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. Moreover, PbAc injection increased the protein and mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines namely, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1 beta, while decreased the levels of interleukin-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, in the kidney. Furthermore, exposure to PbAc correlated with increased levels of pro-apoptotic markers, Bax and caspase-3, and reduced levels of the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2. The administration of CoQ10 alleviated the molecular, biochemical and histological changes following PbAc intoxication. Thus, CoQ10 reduces the deleterious cellular side effects of PbAc exposure due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.

Restoring strategy of ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves against Tilmicosin-induced cardiac injury in rats: Targeting cell apoptosis-mediated pathways

Tilmicosin (Til), an effective macrolide antibiotic, is widely used against respiratory diseases in livestock; however, its treatment is associated with cardiac tissue impairments. In this study, the ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves was investigated at two doses (400 and 800 mg/kg body weight [bw], orally) to determine its role in counteracting the effects of Til treatment (75 mg/kg bw) on the cardiac tissue in rats, exploring the oxidative stress-mediated damage and apoptosis. A high dose of MO ethanolic extract elicits considerable changes in the body weight, reduces the mortality rate, neutralizes the impaired cardiac injury markers, improves antioxidant endpoints (total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase activity, and reduced glutathione level). Also it attenuates the oxidative stress indices (total reactive oxygen species, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, lipid peroxides [malondialdehyde], and protein carbonyl levels) that are associated with Til injection. The co-administration of MO ethanolic extract with Til considerably modulates the expression of apoptosis pathway-encoding genes (Bcl-2, caspase-3, Bax, p53, apoptosis-inducing factor, and Apaf-1), particularly in the high-dose group. Our results support that the concurrent administration of MO ethanolic extract with Til at a dose of 800 mg/kg bw increases the protective activity of the antioxidant system and delays or slows the pathological development of cardiotoxicity mediated by Til injection.

A systematic review on hepatoprotective activity of quercetin against various drugs and toxic agents: Evidence from preclinical studies

Quercetin is one of the most abundant flavonoids in human diet that has been reported to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological properties. The biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in the hepatoprotective activity of quercetin were discussed in this review. Quercetin exhibited hepatoprotective activity against 2-butoxyethanol, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, aflatoxin B1, aroclor-1254, arsenic, sodium arsenite, azathioprine, cadmium chloride, carbon tetrachloride, chlorpyrifos, cyclosporine A, diazinon, dimethylnitrosamine, doxorubicin, epirubicin, ethanol, fenvalerate, isoniazide, rifampicin, lead acetate, lindane, D-galactosamine, methotrexate, methylmercury, nickel sulfate, paracetamol, perfluorooctanoic acid, polychlorinated biphenyls, pyrrolizidine alkaloid clivorine, rotenone, sodium fluoride, streptazotocin, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, thioacetamide, titanium dioxide, tumor necrosis factor-α, tripterygium glycoside, triptolide, ultraviolet A light, concavalin A, bisphenol, and ischemia-induced hepatotoxicity in various animal models due to its antioxidant, free radical-scavenging,anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) inhibitory activities. In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms by which quercetin reduced the hepatotoxicity of different hepatotoxicants. This will help the toxicologists, pharmacologists, and chemists to develop new safer pharmaceutical products with quercetin and other hepatotoxicants.

Quercetin Effects on Hepatotoxicity Induced by Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Rats

Background: Most nanoparticles have adverse impacts on the liver, which is a vital body organ, by the induction of oxidative stress. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of quercetin (QCT) against the toxicity of nanoscale titanium dioxide (NTiO2) in Wistar rats. Methods: The present study was conducted on 32 adult female Wistar rats assigned into 4 groups of control, NTiO2 (50 mg/kg), NTiO2 + Quercetin (50 + 75 mg/kg), and Quercetin (75 mg/kg). The animals exposed to NTiO2 were administered by 50 mg/kg of NTiO2 for 21 days. The Quercetin + NTiO2 rats received Quercetin before exposing to NTiO2 for 7 days. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) of serum were considered indicators of the hepatotoxicity. The oxidative stress was assessed by measuring the activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver. TUNEL assay and histological changes were also assessed. Results: The NTiO2 significantly elevated the MDA level (P < 0.01), enhanced the serum biomarker levels, reduced the CAT (P < 0.01) and SOD (P < 0.01) activities. The NTiO2 also aggregated the red blood cells, and caused inflammatory cell infiltration, nuclear pyknosis and fat deposit in hepatocytes, as well as induced apoptosis in the liver tissue. Pretreatment with QCT quenched oxidative stress, attenuated the histological changes, elevated the CAT (P < 0.01) and SOD (P < 0.01) activities, normalized the serum biomarker levels and decreased apoptosis (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The QCT has an inhibitory impact on hepatotoxicity induced by nanoparticles in rats.

Traditional Chinese medicine combined with hepatic targeted drug delivery systems: A new strategy for the treatment of liver diseases

Liver diseases are clinically common and present a substantial public health issue. Many of the currently available drugs for the treatment of liver diseases suffer from limitations that include low hepatic distribution, lack of target effects, poor in vivo stability and adverse effects on other organs. Consequently, conventional treatment of hepatic diseases is ineffective. TCM is commonly used in the treatment of liver diseases worldwide, particularly in China, and has advantages over conventional therapy. HTDDS can be designed to enhance clinical efficacy in the treatment of liver diseases. We have conducted an extensive review of 335 studies reported since 1964. These included about 166 references involving the treatment of liver diseases with TCM (covering active components of TCM, single TCM and Chinese medicine formulas), 169 reports on HTDDS and background studies on liver-related diseases. Here we review the long history of TCM in the treatment of liver diseases.We have also reviewed the status of studies on active components of TCM using nanotechnology-based targeted delivery systems to provide support for further research and development of TCM-based targeted preparations for the treatment of liver disease.

Chlorogenic acid relieves lead-induced cognitive impairments and hepato-renal damage via regulating the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota in mice

Lead (Pb), a heavy metal which is widely recognized as an environmental toxicant, is transported from the earth's crust into the human body to a significant extent. To control and reduce the hazard of Pb burdens in the human body, chlorogenic acid (CGA) has been used to antagonize Pb-induced cognitive impairments, and hepatic and renal toxicity in the present study. Seven-week-old male Kunming mice were treated with PbCl2 (1.34 g L-1 in drinking water) and/or CGA (30 mg per kg mouse per day) by gavage administration for 8 weeks. In this study, we evaluated behavior tests, serum biochemical parameters, biomarkers of oxidative stress, and community structure of gut microbiota in mice to explore the potential mechanism of the protective effect. Based on our results, CGA appreciably prevented memory impairment, the release of serum biomarkers, and oxidative stress caused by Pb intake. CGA significantly inhibited Pb-induced increase of cytoplasmic NF-κB, Bax, cytochrome C, and caspase-9 protein expressions. Furthermore, Pb + CGA treatment had a remarkable reversion effect of the gut microbiota composition change induced by Pb, for example increasing the ratio of Helicobacter from 2.95% (Pb) to 11.24% (Pb + CGA) and decreasing the ratio of the Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_ group from 7.09% (Pb) to 2.68% (Pb + CGA), which suggests that CGA is a superior natural product to eliminate Pb-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.

Thymoquinone attenuates testicular and spermotoxicity following subchronic lead exposure in male rats: Possible mechanisms are involved

AIMS

The testis is one of the main target organs for lead (Pb) toxicity. The current study was investigated the mechanism (s) of the therapeutic potential of thymoquinone (TQ), the active principle of Nigella sativa seed, against testicular toxicity following subchronic Pb exposure in the light of cytopathic effects, apoptotic signaling pathways, oxidative stress, serum sex hormones levels and testicular aromatase gene expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two male albino rats were randomly allocated into control, PbAc (20 mg PbAc/kg bwt, orally), TQ (5 mg TQ/kg bwt dissolved in corn oil, orally), and PbAc + TQ groups for 56 successive days.

KEY FINDINGS

PbAc-treated rats showed significant decrease of testes and epididymes weights, sperm count, motility and viability, spermatogenesis score and serum FSH, LH, testosterone and estradiol levels, as well as a significant decreased testicular antioxidant molecules (Superoxide dismutase enzyme and reduced glutathione), and a significant elevation of sperm abnormalities, oxidative biomarkers (Malondialdehyde and Nitric oxide) compared to a control group. In addition, Pb induced significant downregulation of aromatase gene expression, activation of Bax and Caspase-3 apoptotic pathways. Moreover, Pb caused complete seminiferous tubules hyalinization (38%), germinal epithelium sloughing (15%) and hypocellularity (8%). However, administration of TQ with PbAc improved sperm quality, testicular histology and oxidative/antioxidative status, and serum levels of LH, testosterone and E2 with respect to PbAc group. Additionally, TQ with PbAc significantly lessen the staining intensity and the area of Bax and Caspase-3 immunoexpression.

SIGNIFICANCE

TQ might exert its acceptable therapeutic potential against Pb-induced testicular and spermotoxicity via anti-oxidative, endocrine and anti-apoptotic pathways.

Ameliorative effects of pre-eclampsia by quercetin supplement to aspirin in a rat model induced by L-NAME

As an inflammatory disease, pre-eclampsia is correlated with elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and maternal endothelial dysfunction. Aspirin plays an important role in the prevention and therapy of pre-eclampsia. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid which has anti-oxidant and reno-protective abilities. We aimed to figure out the effects of quercetin supplement to aspirin on the therapy against pre-eclampsia. Female pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups according to the drug treatment. Aspirin [1.5 mg/kg body weight (BW)] or quercetin (2 mg/kg BW) treatment was administered from gestational day (GD) 4 to GD19. Rat model of pre-eclampsia was induced by NG-nitro-Larginine-methyl-ester (L-NAME). In pre-eclampsia rats induced by L-NAME, systolic blood pressures (SBP), proteinuria, malonyldialdehyde (MDA), and inflammatory cytokines levels were decreased by the treatment of quercetin supplement to aspirin. In the uterus, quercetin supplement to aspirin prevented the expression of VEGF and sFlt-1 mRNA. The treatment of quercetin supplement to aspirin rescued the declined survival rate and weight of pups caused by L-NAME-induced pre-eclampsia. Based on our study, compared with the treatment of aspirin alone, quercetin supplement to aspirin enhanced the therapeutic effects of aspirin on pre-eclampsia rats induced by L-NAME.

Green tea extract attenuates non alcoholic fatty liver disease by decreasing hyperlipidemia and enhancing Superoxide dismutase activity in cholesterol-fed rats

BACKGROUND/AIM: Health benefits of green tea for a wide variety of ailments, including the cancer, heart disease, and liver disease, were reported. It is believed to have beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of many diseases, one of which is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study inspects the protective effect of green tea against atherosclerosis and NAFLD in comparative approach between curative and preventive models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty four of Wistar rats were studied for 150 days. After 15 days of adaptation period, rats were divided into four groups including normal Group (NG), control Hypercholesterolemic diet Group (CHDG), preventive Group (PG) and curative Group (CG) that followed respectively the following regimens: 1 mL/kg of sunflower oil for 150 days, 1 mL/kg of cholesterol solution prepared at 1.5% (w/v) in sunflower oil span 150 days, 1 ml/kg of cholesterol solution at 1.5% (w/v) in sunflower oil with 3 mL/kg GTLE for 60 days and 1 mL/kg of cholesterol solution at 1.5% (w/v) in sunflower oil for 30 days followed by 3 mL/kg of GTLE for 30 days. These both PG and CG groups were ingested with cholesterol 1.5% (w/v) during remaining period. RESULTS: The results showed significant increase, except for NG, during the 30 first days (p≤0.001) in lipid serum profiles including Total Cholesterol (TC), Triacylglycerol (TG) and Low-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c). However, the High-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) profile decreased during the treatment (p≤0.001). The ingestion of GTLE in treated groups (CG and PG) declined significantly (p≤0.001) in blood lipid concentrations (TC: 67%, TG: 23%, LDL-c: 81.12%) except for the HDL-c that increased up to 15%. The Atherogenic Index (AI) also decreased significantly (p≤0.001) up to 48%, in CG and PG. PG and NG marked same SOD activity values (130.91±7.66 versus 141.31±8.21 U/mL), while CG showed the lowest level. Liver sections were well protected in protective model than curative one.

Polyphenols in Liubao Tea Can Prevent CCl₄-Induced Hepatic Damage in Mice through Its Antioxidant Capacities

The present study investigated the preventive effect of polyphenols in Liubao tea (PLT) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver injury in mice. The mice were initially treated with PLT, followed by induction of liver injury using 10 mL/kg CCl₄. Then liver and serum indices, as well as the expression levels of related messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and proteins in liver tissues were measured. The results showed that PLT reduces the liver quality and indices of mice with liver injury. PLT also downregulates aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglycerides (TGs), and malondialdehyde (MDA), and upregulates superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the sera of mice with liver injury. PLT also reduces serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-12 (IL-12), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) cytokines in mice with liver injury. Pathological morphological observation also shows that PLT reduces CCl₄-induced central venous differentiation of liver tissues and liver cell damage. Furthermore, qPCR and Western blot also confirm that PLT upregulates the mRNA and protein expressions of Gu/Zn-SOD, Mn-SOD, catalase (CAT), GSH-Px, and nuclear factor of κ-light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-α (IκB-α) in liver tissues, and downregulates the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Meanwhile, PLT also raised the phosphorylated (p)-NF-κB p65 and cytochrome P450 reductase protein expression in liver injury mice. The components of PLT include gallic acid, catechin, caffeine, epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), gallocatechin gallate (GCG), and epicatechin gallate (ECG), which possibly have a wide range of biological activities. Thus, PLT imparts preventive effects against CCl₄-induced liver injury, which is similar to silymarin.

Targeting Nrf-2 is a promising intervention approach for the prevention of ethanol-induced liver disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) remains to be a worldwide health problem. It is generally accepted that oxidative stress plays critical roles in the pathogenesis of ALD, and antioxidant therapy represents a logical strategy for the prevention and treatment of ALD. Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NFE2L2 or Nrf-2) is essential for the antioxidant responsive element (ARE)-mediated induction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and glutamate-cysteine ligase [GCL, the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of glutathione (GSH)]. Activation of Nrf-2 pathway by genetic manipulation or pharmacological agents has been demonstrated to provide protection against ALD, which suggests that targeting Nrf-2 may be a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of ALD. Herein, we review the relevant literature about the potential hepatoprotective roles of Nrf-2 activation against ALD.

Hepatorenal protection during renal ischemia by quercetin and remote ischemic perconditioning

BACKGROUND

Pathogenesis of renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) involves oxidative stress response in the kidney and remote organs. Both quercetin and remote ischemic perconditioning (RIPerC) can protect partially against IRI. This study determined whether combined quercetin and RIPerC could provide an augmented hepatorenal protection against renal IRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

I/R was induced by clamping renal arteries for 45 min followed by 24-h reperfusion. RIPerC consisted of four cycles of 2 min of left femoral artery ischemia followed by 3 min of reperfusion administered at the beginning of renal ischemia. Rats were divided into five groups: sham, I/R, RIPerC, quercetin (Q + I/R), and combined quercetin and RIPerC (Q + RIPerC). At the end of reperfusion period, blood, urine, and tissue samples were collected.

RESULTS

I/R caused kidney dysfunction, as proved by significant decrease in creatinine clearance, and a significant increase in liver functional indicators as evidenced by increased plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activity. This was accompanied by a decrease of glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities with an increase of malondialdehyde levels and histological damages in renal and hepatic tissues. Treatment with RIPerC and quercetin reduced all these changes. However, the measure of improvements was enhanced by combined quercetin and RIPerC treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated protective effects of quercetin and RIPerC strategy on the both kidney and liver after renal I/R. The results suggest that combined quercetin and RIPerC provides an enhanced protection against renal IRI by reduction of lipid peroxidation and augmentation of antioxidant systems.

Selenium Protects against Lead-induced Apoptosis via Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Chicken Kidneys

Lead (Pb) is a toxic heavy metal and can harm organisms by inducing apoptosis. Selenium (Se), an essential trace element for humans and animals, can alleviate heavy metal toxicity. The aim of our study is to investigate alleviative effect of Se on Pb-induced apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in chicken kidneys. One hundred and eighty male chickens were randomly divided into four groups at 7 days of age and were fed with commercial diet (containing 0.49 mg/kg Se) and drinking water, Na₂SeO₃-added commercial diet (containing 1 mg/kg Se) and drinking water, the commercial diet and (CH₃OO)₂Pb-added drinking water (containing 350 mg/L Pb), and Na₂SeO₃-added commercial diet (containing 1 mg/kg Se) and (CH₃OO)₂Pb-added drinking water (containing 350 mg/L Pb), respectively. On the 30th, 60th, and 90th days of the experiment period, 15 chickens in each group were euthanized and the kidneys were collected. Following contents were performed: kidney ultrastructure; nitric oxide (NO) content; inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity; relative messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of iNOS, ER-related genes (glucose-regulated protein (GRP)78, GRP94, activating transcription factor (ATF)4, ATF6, and iron-responsive element (IRE)), and apoptosis-related genes (caspase-3 and B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)); and caspase-12 protein expression. The results indicated that Pb changed kidney ultrastructural structure; decreased Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression; and increased NO content, iNOS activity, relative mRNA and protein expression of iNOS, ER-related genes, and caspase-3 and caspase-12 protein expression. Se attenuated above changes caused by Pb. Pb had time-dependent manners on NO content, GRP78, GRP94, ATF4, IRE, and caspase-3 mRNA expression. Se attenuated Pb-induced apoptosis via ER stress in the chicken kidneys.

Antagonistic effects of selenium on lead-induced autophagy by influencing mitochondrial dynamics in the spleen of chickens

Lead (Pb) may damage the immune function in human and animal. Selenium (Se) has antagonistic effects on Pb. In our study, brown layer chickens were randomly allocated to control group, Se group (1 mg/kg Se), Se+Pb group (1 mg/kg Se and 350 mg/kg Pb), and Pb group (350 mg/kg Pb). The chickens were sacrificed on the 90^th day; spleen tissues were subjected to observation of ultrastructure and detection of spleen-related indexes. The results revealed that in the Pb group, expression levels of the cytokines IL-1 and TNF-α significantly increased, and expression levels of IL-2 and INF-γ significantly decreased; activities of antioxidant enzyme GPX, SOD and CAT significantly decreased, and expression level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly increased; expression levels of mitochondrial fission-related genes (Mff and Drp1) significantly increased, and expression levels of mitochondrial fusion-related genes (Opa1, Mfn1 and Mfn2) significantly decreased; expression of autophagy-related genes (Beclin 1, Dynein, Atg 5, LC3-I and LC-II) was upregulated, while expression of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) was downregulated. The results of transmission electron microscopy indicated that Pb induced mitochondrial fragmentation, and triggered autophagy in the spleen of chickens. The Se and Pb co-treatment remarkably alleviated these injuries induced by Pb in the spleen of chickens. In conclusion, Pb can induce the oxidative stress to influence the mitochondrial dynamics balance and lead to autophagy, which triggers the immune dysfunction in the spleen of chickens; the Se exhibits the antagonistic effects on lead-induced autophagy by influencing mitochondrial dynamics in the spleen of chickens.

Involvement of mitochondrial pathway in environmental metal pollutant lead-induced apoptosis of chicken liver: perspectives from oxidative stress and energy metabolism

This study aimed to investigate the possible mechanisms of environmental metal pollutant lead (Pb)-induced apoptosis in chicken. Forty 8-day-old healthy chickens were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 20/group) after raising standard commercial diet and drinking water for 1 week: including control group and Pb group ((CH₃COO)₂Pb 350 mg/L of drinking water); the chickens were given euthanasia and collected livers at 90 days. A significant increase of apoptosis rate were found in Pb group and Pb induced obvious ultrastructural changes of chicken liver. The mRNA levels of glycometabolism key enzymes were significantly lower in Pb group than those in controls. Higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) were observed in Pb group; the activities of antioxidant enzymes and ATPases were significantly lower in Pb group than those in controls, while the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity was on the contrary. The mRNA and protein levels of pro-apoptotic genes were all lower in Pb group than those in controls. Altogether, Pb-induced mitochondrial swelling and nuclear chromatin condensation, oxidative stress, energy metabolism disorder, thereby lead to apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway in chicken liver, suggesting that Pb-induced mitochondrial pathway apoptosis plays an important role in the mechanisms of Pb cytotoxicity to chicken liver.

Thymoquinone ameliorates lead-induced suppression of the antioxidant system in rat kidneys

Objective

Alteration of the antioxidant status in the kidneys may be related to lead (Pb) intoxication. The present study aimed to investigate the possible beneficial effect of thymoquinone (TQ), the major active ingredient of the volatile oil of Nigella sativa seeds, on Pb-induced renal antioxidant defense system impairment.

Methods

A total of thirty two healthy adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four equal groups as follows: a control group, which received no treatment; a Pb group, which was exposed to 2,000 ppm of Pb acetate in drinking water; a Pb-TQ group, which was cotreated with Pb plus TQ (5 mg/kg/day, per os); and a TQ group receiving only TQ. All treatments were applied for five weeks.

Results

TQ alone did not induce any significant changes in the antioxidant defense system. By contrast, Pb exposure significantly decreased reduced glutathione level and superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione reductase activities in the renal tissue. Interestingly, supplementation with TQ significantly improved the affected antioxidant parameters.

Conclusion

Our data are the first to provide evidence on the protective effect of TQ against Pb-induced renal antioxidant capacity impairment and suggest that this component might be a clinically promising alternative in Pb nephrotoxicity.

Effects of ciprofloxacin on fetal rat liver during pregnancy and protective effects of quercetin

Urinary tract infections are common in pregnant women and ciprofloxacin frequently is used as a broad spectrum antibiotic. It has been suggested that ciprofloxacin causes liver damage in fetuses. Quercetin is a flavonoid with antioxidant properties. We investigated the efficacy of quercetin treatment for preventing fetal liver damage caused by ciprofloxacin. Pregnant rats were divided into four groups: untreated control group (C), 20 mg/kg quercetin for 21 days group (Q), 20 mg/kg twice/day ciprofloxacin for 10 days group (CP), and 20 mg/kg, ciprofloxacin + quercetin for 21 days group (CP + Q). Fetal livers were removed on day 21 of gestation to measure antioxidants and for histological observation. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were measured in tissue samples. GSH-Px, SOD and CAT activities were significantly lower in the CP group compared to group C. A significant increase in MDA was observed in the CP group compared to group C. There was no significant difference in GSH levels in any group. MDA levels were lower and CAT, SOD and GSH-Px enzyme activities were higher in the CP + Q group compared to group CP. Liver samples of the CP group exhibited central vein dilation, portal vein congestion, pyknotic nuclei and cytoplasmic vacuolization in some hepatocytes. Histological changes were less prominent in the rats treated with quercetin. Use of ciprofloxacin during pregnancy caused oxidative damage in fetal liver tissue. Oxidative stress was ameliorated by quercetin. Quercetin supports the antioxidant defense mechanism and it is beneficial for treating fetal liver damage caused by ciprofloxacin.

The antagonistic effect of selenium on lead-induced apoptosis via mitochondrial dynamics pathway in the chicken kidney

Selenium (Se) is known to have antagonistic effects against lead (Pb) toxicity in animal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the roles of mitochondrial dynamics on Pb-induced apoptosis in the chicken kidney and investigate the antagonistic effect of Se. In the present study, brown layer chickens were randomly allocated to four groups, and each group were exposed to a basic diet (0.2 mg kg^-1 Se and 0.5 mg kg^-1 Pb), a Se-adequate diet (1 mg kg^-1 Se and 0.5 mg kg^-1 Pb), a Se and Pb compound diet (1 mg kg^-1 Se and 350 mg kg^-1 Pb) or a Pb supplemented diet (0.2 mg kg^-1 Se and 350 mg kg^-1 Pb). On the 90^th day, the kidney was removed to determine the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, ATPases and oxidative indexes. The expression levels of mitochondrial dynamics and apoptosis-related genes were also determined. The results showed that Pb treatment significantly decreased the activities of mitochondrial complexes and ATPases, and increased oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dynamics and anti-apoptosis-related genes had a lower expression, whereas mitochondrial pro-apoptosis related genes presented higher expressions in the Pb group compared with control group (P < 0.05). However, the co-treatment of Se and Pb significantly alleviated those changes compared with the Pb group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, we speculated that Pb could increase the oxidative stress and promote the apoptosis via regulating mitochondrial dynamics and apoptosis-related genes, and Se exhibited antagonistic roles against the Pb-induced apoptosis in the kidney of chickens.