Supplementation of American ginseng berry extract mitigated cisplatin-evoked nephrotoxicity by suppressing ROS-mediated activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways

Elucidating the modulatory role of dietary hydroxyproline on the integrity and functional performance of the intestinal barrier in early-weaned piglets: A comprehensive analysis of its interplay with the gut microbiota and metabolites

Piglets receive far less hydroxyproline (Hyp) from a diet after weaning than they obtained from sow's milk prior to weaning, suggesting that Hyp may play a protective role in preserving intestinal mucosal homeostasis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Hyp on intestinal barrier function and its associated gut microbiota and metabolites in early-weaned piglets. Eighty weaned piglets were divided into four groups and fed diets containing different Hyp levels (0 %, 0.5 %, 1 %, or 2 %) for 21 days. Samples, including intestinal contents, tissues, and blood, were collected on day 7 for analysis of microbial composition, intestinal barrier function, and metabolites. We demonstrated that dietary supplementation with 2 % Hyp improved the feed conversion ratio and reduced the incidence of diarrhea in early-weaned piglets compared to the control group. Concurrently, Hyp enhanced intestinal barrier function by facilitating tight junction protein (zonula occludens (ZO)-1 and occludin) expression and mucin production in the jejunal, ileal, and colonic mucosas. It also improved mucosal immunity (by increasing the amount of secretory IgA (sIgA) and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocytes and decreasing NF-κB phosphorylation) and increased antioxidant capacity (by raising total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione levels) in the intestinal mucosa. In addition, Hyp supplementation resulted in an increase in the levels of glycine, glutathione, and glycine-conjugated bile acids, while decreasing the concentrations of cortisol and methionine sulfoxide in plasma. Intriguingly, piglets fed diet containing Hyp exhibited a remarkable increase in the abundance of probiotic Enterococcus faecium within their colonic contents. This elevation occurred alongside an attenuation of pro-inflammatory responses and an enhancement in intestinal barrier integrity. Further, these changes were accompanied by a rise in anti-inflammatory metabolites, specifically glycochenodeoxycholic acid and guanosine, along with a suppression of pro-inflammatory lipid peroxidation products, including (12Z)-9,10-dihydroxyoctadec-12-enoic acid (9,10-DHOME) and 13-L-hydroperoxylinoleic acid (13(S)-HPODE). In summary, Hyp holds the capacity to enhance the intestinal barrier function in weaned piglets; this effect is correlated with changes in the gut microbiota and metabolites. Our findings provide novel insights into the role of Hyp in maintaining gut homeostasis, highlighting its potential as a dietary supplement for promoting intestinal health in early-weaned piglets.

Characterization of the structure, anti-inflammatory activity and molecular docking of a neutral polysaccharide separated from American ginseng berries

AIM

American ginseng berries, grown in the aerial parts and harvested in August, are a potentially valuable material. The aim of the study was to analyze the specific polysaccharides in American ginseng berries, and to demonstrate the anti-inflammation effect through in vitro and in vivo experiments and molecular docking.

METHODS

After deproteinization and dialysis, the extracted crude polysaccharide was separated and purified. The structure of the specific isolated polysaccharide was investigated by Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), GC-MS and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo models (Raw 264.7 cells and zebrafish). Molecular docking was used to analyze the binding capacity and interaction with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).

RESULTS

A novel neutral polysaccharide fraction (AGBP-A) was isolated from American ginseng berries. The structural analysis demonstrated that AGBP-A had a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 122,988 Da with a dispersity index (Mw/Mn) value of 1.59 and was composed of arabinose and galactose with a core structure containing →6)-Gal-(1→ residues as the backbone and a branching substitution at the C3 position. The side-chains comprised of α-L-Ara-(1→, α-L-Ara-(1→, →5)-α-L-Ara-(1→, β-D-Gal-(1→. The results showed that it significantly decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines in the cell model. In a zebrafish model, AGBP-A reduced the massive recruitment of neutrophils to the caudal lateral line neuromast, suggesting the relief of inflammation. Molecular docking was used to analyze the combined capacity and interaction with COX-2.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated the potential efficacy of AGBP-A as a safe and valid natural anti-inflammatory component.

An integrated view of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and cardiotoxicity: characteristics, common molecular mechanisms, and current clinical management

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapy drug widely prescribed to treat various neoplasms. Although fundamental for the therapeutic action of the drug, its cytotoxic mechanisms trigger adverse effects in several tissues, such as the kidney, liver, and heart, which limit its clinical use. In this sense, studies point to an essential role of damage to nuclear and mitochondrial DNA associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the pathophysiology of tissue injuries. Due to the limitation of effective preventive and therapeutic measures against CP-induced toxicity, new strategies with potential cytoprotective effects have been studied. Therefore, this article is timely in reviewing the characteristics and main molecular mechanisms common to renal, hepatic, and cardiac toxicity previously described, in addition to addressing the main validated strategies for the current management of these adverse events in clinical practice. We also handle the main promising antioxidant substances recently presented in the literature to encourage the development of new research that consolidates their potential preventive and therapeutic effects against CP-induced cytotoxicity.

Biochar reduces the cadmium content of Panax quinquefolium L. by improving rhizosphere microecology

Cadmium (Cd) accumulation in American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) can negatively impact its yield and safety. Our previous study found that biochar could reduce cadmium content of P. quinquefolius, however, the mechanism was yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we tested four treatments in order to reveal the mechanism by which this phenomenon occurs: control, Cd, Cd + biochar and biochar. The results showed that the following responses were induced by the addition of biochar under Cd stress. Firstly, the soil physicochemical properties were improved, this is especially true for the soil pH value and soil organic matter content, which were increased by 20.42 % and 15.57 %, respectively. Secondly, the relative abundances of several beneficial microorganism phyla; such as Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota and Actinobacteria; were increased by 10.69 %, 20.11 % and 60.86 %, respectively. Thirdly, treatment with biochar reduced the Cd content by increasing cadmium-chelated metabolites within the soil (e.g., naringenin, caffeic acid, and valine) and increasing detoxification substances in plants (e.g., malic acid, flavonoids, and fumaric acid). Changes in these metabolites were significantly correlated with rhizosphere microecology. In summary, biochar treatment reduced the Cd content in seedlings by improving the soil properties, rhizosphere community, soil metabolites, and plant metabolites.

A systematic review of ginsenoside biosynthesis, spatiotemporal distribution, and response to biotic and abiotic factors in American ginseng

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) has gained recognition as a medicinal and functional food homologous product with several pharmaceutical, nutritional, and industrial applications. However, the key regulators involved in ginsenoside biosynthesis, the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of ginsenosides, and factors influencing ginsenosides are largely unknown, which make it challenging to enhance the quality and chemical extraction processes of the cultivated American ginseng. This review presents an overview of the pharmacological effects, biosynthesis and spatiotemporal distribution of ginsenosides, with emphasis on the impacts of biotic and abiotic factors on ginsenosides in American ginseng. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that American ginseng has neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antitumor, antidiabetic, and anti-obesity effects. Additionally, most genes involved in the upregulation of ginsenoside biosynthesis have been identified, while downstream regulators (OSCs, CYP450, and UGTs) require further investigation. Futhermore, limited knowledge exists regarding the molecular mechanisms of the impact of biotic and abiotic factors on ginsenosides. Notably, the nonmedicinal parts of American ginseng, particularly its flowers, fibrous roots, and leaves, exhibit higher ginsenoside content than its main roots and account for a considerable amount of weight in the whole plant, representing promising resources for ginsenosides. Herein, the prospects of molecular breeding and metabolic engineering based on multi-omics to improve the unstable quality of cultivated American ginseng and the shortage of ginsenosides are proposed. This review highlights the gaps in the current research on American ginseng and proposes solutions to address these limitations, providing a guide for future investigations into American ginseng ginsenosides.

Nicorandil attenuates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in rats via activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade and inhibition of autophagy

Cisplatin is a highly effective antitumor agent, but its clinical use is limited due to critical adverse reactions including acute kidney injury (AKI). Nicorandil is an approved antianginal agent decreasing ischemia by potassium channel opening. The aim of this study was to investigate the nephroprotective effects of nicorandil and the possible role of activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in ameliorating cisplatin-induced AKI. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly allocated in 4 groups (n = 10). Group I: rats received the vehicle and served as control. Group II: rats received a single dose of cisplatin (7 mg/kg, i.p) on the 10th day of the experiment and served as AKI group. Group III: rats received cisplatin as in group II and nicorandil (3 mg/kg/day, p.o) for 14 days. Group IV: rats received cisplatin and nicorandil as in group III as well as wortmannin (15 μg/kg, i.v) for 14 days. Nicorandil exhibited obvious nephroprotective effects via the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Moreover, nicorandil succeed to reduce the expression of the autophagy markers beclin-1 and LC-3II/I. In parallel, nicorandil showed anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects via inhibition of NF-κB inflammatory pathway and depression of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Wortmannin, the PI3K inhibitor, was used to demonstrate the proposed pathway. Our study showed the nephroprotective effects of nicorandil in cisplatin-induced AKI in rats via activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade, inhibition of autophagy, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant activities. Thus, nicorandil could represent a promising renoprotective agent in cancer patients treated with cisplatin.

The preventative effect of Baihe Gujin Pill on cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by activating the PI3K/AKT and suppressing the NF-κB/MAPK pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baihe Gujin Pill (BHGJP) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) derived from the "Collection of Medical Formulas". BHGJP is applied to treat lung and kidney deficiency by nourishing yin and clearing heat. However, the role and preventative mechanism of BHGJP in cisplatin induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) are poorly understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The preventative effect of BHGJP on CIAKI by the in vitro and in vivo experiments based on network pharmacology was investigated.

METHODS

Network pharmacology was used to predict the protective effect of BHGJP on CIAKI. The effect and mechanism of BHGJP against CIAKI were detected and verified by the in vitro kidney cells 293T and HK-2 as well as the in vivo mice model established by a single injection of cisplatin.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology predicted that BHGJP prevented CIAKI by regulating PI3K/AKT and NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways. BHGJP could reverse the reduced cell viability of HK-2 and 293T cells caused by cisplatin without decreasing its cytotoxic effects on H460, H1299, and A549 cells. Meanwhile, BHGJP effectively controlled kidney injury in the CIAKI model. Moreover, cisplatin induced cell apoptosis and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were downregulated after treatment with BHGJP. The changes of oxidative stress indexes of GSH, MDA, and SOD as well as the inflammatory factors of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the CIAKI model were recovered to normal state when BHGJP treatment. Furthermore, BHGJP activated PI3K/AKT pathway and suppressed the NF-κB/MAPK pathway in the CIAKI model.

CONCLUSION

The study found that BHGJP prevented CIAKI by inhibiting apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation via regulating PI3K/AKT and NF-κB/MAPK pathways, providing new efficacy and clinical applications for BHGJP.

A new ocotillol-type ginsenoside from American ginseng berry

A new ocotillol-type ginsenoside, named pseudoginsenoside F12 (1), was isolated from American ginseng berry, whose structure was elucidated as 6-O-[α-L-2,3-epoxy-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-dammar-20S,24R-epoxy-3β, 6α,12β,25-tetraol. In addition, the known alkaloids β-carboline-1-carboxylic acid (2) and anoectochine (3) were isolated for the first time from the Araliaceae family. The new compound 1 was evaluated for cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line.

Lobetyolin, a Q-marker isolated from Radix Platycodi, exerts protective effects on cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in HEK293 cells

This study investigated the protective effect of lobetyolin (LBT), a Q-marker isolated from the roots of Platycodon grandiflorum (Radix Platycodi), against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. Results showed that LBT at 20 μM significantly prevented cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity by improving the viability of HEK293 cells, decreasing levels of MDA, and decreasing GSH content triggered by cisplatin. It also suppressed reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Molecular docking analysis revealed a strong binding affinity between LBT and the NF-κB protein, with a docking fraction of - 6.5 kcal/mol. These results provide compelling evidence suggesting a potential link between the visualization analysis of LBT and its protective mechanism, specifically implicating the NF-κB signaling pathway. LBT also reduced the expression level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), phosphorylation NF-κB and IκBα in HEK293 cells which were increased by cisplatin exposure, leading to inhibition of inflammation. Furthermore, western blotting showed that LBT antagonized the up-regulation of Bax, cleaved caspase 3, 8, and 9 expression and inhibited the MAPK signaling pathway by down-regulating phosphorylation JNK, ERK, and p38, partially ameliorating cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in HEK293 cells. Therefore, these results indicate that LBT has potentially protected renal function by inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis.

Dihydromyricetin attenuates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation and ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is effective against various types of cancers. However, its clinical application is limited owing to its adverse effects, especially acute kidney injury (AKI). Dihydromyricetin (DHM), a flavonoid derived from Ampelopsis grossedentata, has varied pharmacological activities. This research aimed to determine the molecular mechanism for cisplatin-induced AKI.

METHODS

A murine model of cisplatin-induced AKI (22 mg/kg, I.P.) and a HK-2 cell model of cisplatin-induced damage (30 μM) were established to evaluate the protective function of DHM. Renal dysfunction markers, renal morphology and potential signaling pathways were investigated.

RESULTS

DHM decreased the levels of renal function biomarkers (blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine), mitigated renal morphological damage, and downregulated the protein levels of kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin. It upregulated the expression levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and catalase expression), nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream proteins, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic (GCLC) and modulatory (GCLM) subunits, thus eventually reducing cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, DHM partially inhibited the phosphorylation of the active fragments of caspase-8 and -3 and mitogen-activated protein kinase and restored glutathione peroxidase 4 expression, which attenuated renal apoptosis and ferroptosis in cisplatin-treated animals. DHM also mitigated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and nuclear factor (NF)-κB, attenuating the inflammatory response. In addition, it reduced cisplatin-induced HK-2 cell apoptosis and ROS production, both of which were blocked by the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385.

CONCLUSIONS

DHM suppressed cisplatin-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and ferroptosis probably through regulating of Nrf2/HO-1, MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.

7-hydroxycoumarin-β-D-glucuronide protects against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury via inhibiting p38MAPK-mediated apoptosis in mice

AIMS

Cisplatin is a widely-used drug in the clinical treatment of tumors, but kidney nephrotoxicity is one of the reasons that limits its widespread use. We previously found that 7-hydroxycoumarin-β-D-glucuronide (7-HCG) was one of metabolites of skimmin and highly enriched in the kidneys and maintained a high blood concentration in skimmin-treated rats. Therefore, we investigated whether 7-HCG has a protective effect on cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice were continuously administered 7-HCG for five days, and on the third day, an intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin was given to induce acute kidney injury. After 72 h, the mice were sacrificed for analysis. Serum and renal tissue were collected for renal function evaluation. RNA sequencing was used to explore mechanism, and further validated by western blot and immunohistochemistry. In addition, pharmacokinetic study of oral 7-HCG administration was performed to examine how much 7-hydroxycoumarin (7-HC) was metabolized and 7-HC possible effect on renal protection.

KEY FINDINGS

7-HCG significantly reduced serum BUN and SCR levels, and alleviated pathological damage in renal tissue, and reduced the renal index. RNA sequencing revealed that 7-HCG could reverse p38 MAPK regulation and apoptosis. By western blotting, it was found that 7-HCG could reduce renal injury by reducing p-p38, p-ERK, p-JNK, cleaved-caspase3 and Bax. The immunohistochemical results of cleaved-caspase3 were consistent with western blotting. 7-HCG also significantly reduced the production of ROS in kidney tissue. Pharmacokinetic experiments have shown that 7-HCG in the blood increased rapidly and was eliminated slowly, with an average t_1/2β of 18.3 h. And the concentration of 7-HCG in the target organ kidney was about 4 times higher than that in blood.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings indicate that 7-HCG could exert its protective effect against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting apoptosis via p38 MAPK regulation and elucidates its pharmacokinetics.

Protective effect of spore oil-functionalized nano-selenium system on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress-mediated pathways and activating immune response

In clinical practice, cisplatin is the most commonly used chemotherapy drug to treat a range of malignancies. Severe ROS-regulated nephrotoxicity, however, restricts its applicability. Currently, the main mechanisms leading to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in clinical settings involve hydration or diuresis. However, not all patients can be treated with massive hydration or diuretics. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a treatment modality that can effectively reduce nephrotoxicity through a foodborne route. Selenium has been reported to have strong antioxidant as well as anticancer effects when administered as spore oil. Herein, we established cellular and animal models of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and synthesized spore oil-functionalized nano-selenium (GLSO@SeNPs). We found that GLSO@SeNPs inhibit the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by maintaining oxidative homeostasis and regulating related signaling pathways (the MAPK, caspase, and AKT signaling pathways). In vivo, GLSO@SeNPs could effectively improve cisplatin-induced renal impairment, effectively maintaining oxidative homeostasis in renal tissues and thus inhibiting the process of renal injury. In addition, GLSO@SeNPs were converted into selenocysteine (SeCys2), which may exert protective effects. Furthermore, GLSO@SeNPs could effectively modulate the ratio of immune cells in kidneys and spleen, reducing the proportions of CD3⁺CD4⁺ T cells, CD3⁺CD8⁺ T cells, and M1 phenotype macrophages and increasing the proportion of anti-inflammatory regulatory T cells. In summary, in this study, we synthesized food-derived spore oil-functionalized nanomaterials, and we explored the mechanisms by which GLSO@SeNPs inhibit cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Our study provides a basis and rationale for the inhibition of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by food-derived nutrients.

Icariin: A Promising Natural Product in Biomedicine and Tissue Engineering

Among scaffolds used in tissue engineering, natural biomaterials such as plant-based materials show a crucial role in cellular function due to their biocompatibility and chemical indicators. Because of environmentally friendly behavior and safety, green methods are so important in designing scaffolds. A key bioactive flavonoid of the Epimedium plant, Icariin (ICRN), has a broad range of applications in improving scaffolds as a constant and non-immunogenic material, and in stimulating the cell growth, differentiation of chondrocytes as well as differentiation of embryonic stem cells towards cardiomyocytes. Moreover, fusion of ICRN into the hydrogel scaffolds or chemical crosslinking can enhance the secretion of the collagen matrix and proteoglycan in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. To scrutinize, in various types of cancer cells, ICRN plays a decisive role through increasing cytochrome c secretion, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase as well as caspase stimulations. Surprisingly, ICRN can induce apoptosis, reduce viability and inhibit proliferation of cancer cells, and repress tumorigenesis as well as metastasis. Moreover, cancer cells no longer grow by halting the cell cycle at two checkpoints, G0/G1 and G2/M, through the inhibition of NF-κB by ICRN. Besides, improving nephrotoxicity occurring due to cisplatin and inhibiting multidrug resistance are the other applications of this biomaterial.

Multi-Mechanistic and Therapeutic Exploration of Nephroprotective Effect of Traditional Ayurvedic Polyherbal Formulation Using In Silico, In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches

Based on traditional therapeutic claims, NEERI KFT (a traditional Ayurvedic polyherbal preparation) has been innovatively developed in recent time on the decades of experience for treating kidney dysfunction. Due to the lack of scientific evidence, the present investigations are needed to support the rationale use of NEERI KFT. Considering the facts, the study investigated the nephroprotective effect of NEERI KFT against kidney dysfunction using in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches. In this study, phytochemical and network pharmacology studies were performed for the developed formulation to evaluate the molecular mechanism of NEERI KFT in the amelioration of kidney disease. In vitro nephroprotective and antioxidant effect of NEERI KFT was determined on HEK 293 cells against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. In vivo nephroprotective effect of NEERI KFT was determined against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats, via assessing biochemical markers, antioxidant enzymes and inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, CASP-3, etc. The results showed that the compounds such as gallic acid, caffeic acid and ferulic acid are the major constituents of NEERI KFT, while network pharmacology analysis indicated a strong interaction between polyphenols and several genes (CASPs, ILs, AGTR1, AKT, ACE2, SOD1, etc.) involved in the pathophysiology of kidney disease. In vivo studies showed a significant (p < 0.05) ameliorative effect on biochemical markers and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH, etc.), and regulates inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, CASP-3) expression in kidney tissue. Hence, it can be concluded that NEERI KFT subsequently alleviates renal dysfunction mediated by cisplatin via attenuating oxidative and inflammatory stress, thus preserving the normalcy of kidney function.

In Vitro and In Vivo Nephroprotective Effects of Nelumbo nucifera Seedpod Extract against Cisplatin-Induced Renal Injury

Cisplatin has been considered a chemotherapeutic drug for treating human tumors, and one of the noteworthy side effects of cisplatin is nephrotoxicity. Amelioration of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is necessary. Lotus seedpod extract (LSE) mainly composed of quercetin-3-glucuronide has been revealed for antioxidant and anti-tumor effects. However, the effects of LSE on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity are still unknown. This study aims to explore the in vitro and in vivo protective effect and possible mechanism of LSE on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Results showed that co-treatment of LSE with cisplatin raised the viability of rat renal tubular epithelial NRK-52E cells and decreased oxidative stress and cell apoptosis when compared to the cells treated with cisplatin alone. The molecular mechanisms analyzed found that LSE could reduce the expressions of apoptotic factors, including Bax, Bad, t-Bid, and caspases. In the in vivo study, LSE improved the cisplatin-induced levels of serum markers of kidney function, glomerular atrophy, and the degree of apoptosis in the kidneys. This is the first study to display that LSE prevents cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Thus, LSE could be a novel and natural chemoprotective agent for cisplatin chemotherapy in the future.

Prediction of the mechanisms of action of Zhibai Dihaung Granule in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury: A network pharmacology study and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zhibai Dihuang Granule (ZDG) is known as traditional Chinese patent medicine with the functions of "Ziyin decrease internal heat" in Traditional Chinses medicine. In clinical, it is also used to treat various kidney diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to provide a basis for the curative effect of ZDG on acute kidney injury induced by cisplatin (CIAKI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The active compounds and protein targets of ZDG, as well as the potential targets of the CIAKI were searched from the database. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network diagram and the drug-compounds-targets-disease network were constructed. Enrichment analysis was performed by Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Subsequently, the effect of ZDG on the prevention and treatment of CIAKI was experimentally validated in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

From the database, we screened 22 active compounds of ZDG and 226 related targets. We obtained 498 gene targets related to CIAKI, among which 40 genes overlapped with ZDG-related targets. Go enrichment and KEGG analysis got 339 terms and 64 pathways, respectively. Based on the above study, we speculated that ZDG has the potential effect on treatment CIAKI, and the mechanism may be related to cell apoptosis and inflammation. The results in vitro experiments showed that ZDG reduced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin to HK-2 and 293T cells, but did not affect the antitumor effect of cisplatin. Moreover, in vivo experiments further proved that ZDG effectively controlled kidney damage caused by cisplatin in SD rats. The results showed that ZDG could regulate the expression of CASP3, p65 and MAPK pathway related proteins, suggesting that ZDG's prevention of CIAKI may be related to apoptosis and inflammatory response.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that ZDG could prevent and treat CIAKI by inhibiting cell apoptosis and inflammation, which provided a new efficacy and clinical application for ZDG.

Crataegus oxyacantha Extract as a Biostimulant to Enhance Tolerance to Salinity in Tomato Plants

Salinity is a severe abiotic problem that has harmful impacts on agriculture. Recently, biostimulants were defined as bioprotectant materials that promote plant growth and improve productivity under various stress conditions. In this study, we investigated the effect of Crataegus oxyacantha extract as a biostimulant on tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) grown under salt stress. Concentrations of 20 mg/L, 30 mg/L, and 70 mg/L of C. oxyacantha extract were applied to tomato plants that were grown under salt stress. The results indicated that plants that were treated with C. oxyacantha extract had a higher ability to tolerate salt stress, as demonstrated by a significant (p < 0.05) increase in plant growth and photosynthetic pigment contents, in addition to a significant increase in tomato soluble sugars and amino acids compared to the control plants. In the stressed tomato plants, malondialdehyde increased and then decreased significantly with the different concentrations of C. oxyacantha extract. Furthermore, there was a significant improvement in the antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione reductase (GR) in the stressed plants, especially after treatment with 70 mg/L of the extract. Overall, our results suggest that C. oxyacantha extract could be a promising biostimulant for treating tomato plants under salinity stress.

Protective effect of food derived nutrients on cisplatin nephrotoxicity and its mechanism

Platinum-based metal complexes, especially cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum II, CDDP), possess strong anticancer properties and a broad anticancer spectrum. However, the clinical application of CDDP has been limited by its side effects including nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and neurotoxicity. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of current clinical protocols are imperfect. Accordingly, it is essential to identify key targets and effective clinical protocols to restrict CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. Herein, we first analyzed the relevant molecular mechanisms during the process of CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity including oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. Evidence from current studies was collected and potential targets and clinical protocols are summarized. The evidence indicates an efficacious role of nutrition-based substances in CDDP-induced renal injury.

Extraction of functional extracts from berries and their high quality processing: a comprehensive review

Berry fruits have attracted increasing more attention of the food processing industry as well as consumers due to their widely acclaimed advantages as highly effective anti-oxidant properties which may provide protection against some cancers as well as aging. However, the conventional extraction methods are inefficient and wasteful of solvent utilization. This paper presents a critical overview of some novel extraction methods applicable to berries, including pressurized-liquid extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, enzyme-assisted extraction as well as some combined extraction methods. When combined with conventional methods, the new technologies can be more efficient and environmentally friendly. Additionally, high quality processing of the functional extracts from berry fruits, such as refined processing technology, is introduced in this review. Finally, progress of applications of berry functional extracts in the food industry is described in detail; this should encourage further scientific research and industrial utilization.

Natural products: potential treatments for cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin is a clinically advanced and highly effective anticancer drug used in the treatment of a wide variety of malignancies, such as head and neck, lung, testis, ovary, breast cancer, etc. However, it has only a limited use in clinical practice due to its severe adverse effects, particularly nephrotoxicity; 20%–35% of patients develop acute kidney injury (AKI) after cisplatin administration. The nephrotoxic effect of cisplatin is cumulative and dose dependent and often necessitates dose reduction or withdrawal. Recurrent episodes of AKI result in impaired renal tubular function and acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, uremia, and hypertensive nephropathy. The pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced AKI involves proximal tubular injury, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular injury in the kidneys. At present, there are no effective drugs or methods for cisplatin-induced kidney injury. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies show that numerous natural products (flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, polysaccharide, phenylpropanoids, etc.) have specific antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties that regulate the pathways associated with cisplatin-induced kidney damage. In this review we describe the molecular mechanisms of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and summarize recent findings in the field of natural products that undermine these mechanisms to protect against cisplatin-induced kidney damage and provide potential strategies for AKI treatment.

Protective Effect of Penetratin Analogue-Tagged SOD1 on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity through Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and JNK/p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway

Copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) can clear cisplatin- (CP-) induced excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), but exogenous SOD1 cannot enter cells because of its low biomembrane permeability. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) can rapidly cross plasma membranes. This study is aimed at identifying an efficient and stable CPP-SOD1 and investigating its effects on CP-induced nephrotoxicity. We recombined SOD1 with 14 different CPPs and purified them using an NTA-Ni²⁺ column. In in vitro experiments, CPPs-SOD1 cell membrane penetration ability and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway were evaluated using Western blotting. ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and cell apoptosis were determined using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining in VERO and HK-2 cells. For in vivo experiments, mice were administered PSF-SOD1 for 2 h before cotreatment with a single CP injection for an additional 4 days. Blood and kidney samples were collected for renal function assessment (creatinine, urea nitrogen, histopathology, TUNEL assay, and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway). Compared with TAT-SOD1, we found that PSF-SOD1 is more efficient at crossing the cell membrane and is stable after transduction into cells. Pretreatment with PSF-SOD1 inhibited CP-induced apoptosis, ROS generation, and JNK/p38 MAPK activation and restored CP-induced MMP loss in VERO and HK-2 kidney cells. Treatment of mice with PSF-SOD1 inhibited CP-induced serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen elevation, and JNK/p38 MAPK activation. H&E staining and TUNEL assay indicated that kidney tissue damage was alleviated following PSF-SOD1 pretreatment. Overall, PSF-SOD1 ameliorated CP-induced renal damage by partially reducing oxidative stress and cell apoptosis by regulating JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway and might be a better cytoprotective agent than TAT-SOD1.

Protective Effect of 20(R)-Ginsenoside Rg3 Against Cisplatin-Induced Renal Toxicity via PI3K/AKT and NF-[Formula: see text]B Signaling Pathways Based on the Premise of Ensuring Anticancer Effect

Although the protective effect of ginsenoside on cisplatin-induced renal injury has been extensively studied, whether ginsenoside interferes with the antitumor effect of cisplatin has not been confirmed. In this paper, we verified the main molecular mechanism of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 (R-Rg3) antagonizing cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) through the combination of in vivo and in vitro models. It is worth mentioning that the two cell models of HK-2 and HepG2 were used simultaneously for the first time to explore the effect of the activation site of tumor-associated protein p53 on apoptosis and tumor suppression. The results showed that a single injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg) led to weight loss, the kidney index of the mice increased, and creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in mice sharply increased. Continuous administration of R-Rg3 at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for 10 days could significantly alleviate this symptom. Similarly, R-Rg3 treatment reduced oxidative stress damage caused by cisplatin. Moreover, R-Rg3 could observably reduce the apoptosis and inflammatory infiltration of renal tubular cells induced by cisplatin. We used western blotting analysis to demonstrate that R-Rg3 restored cisplatin-induced AKI might be related to PI3K/AKT and NF-[Formula: see text]B mediated apoptosis and inflammation pathways. In the meantime, we also verified that R-Rg3 could activate different sites of p53 to control renal cell apoptosis induced by cisplatin without affecting its antitumor effect.

Combination of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and cisplatin induces oxidative stress and apoptosis in HeLa cells by reducing activity of endogenous antioxidants, increasing bax/bcl-2 mRNA expression ratio, and downregulating Nrf2 expression

Investigation on potentiation of existing drugs with natural compounds to enhance efficacy and reduce toxic effect of the drugs has been increasing in recent years. This paper reports cytotoxic effect (apoptosis-related and oxidative stress-related effect) of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), cisplatin (DDP), and their combination (C3G-DDP) on cervical cancer HeLa cells. Concentration of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by employing fluorescent marker 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. On the other hand, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) concentration, and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were quantitated by commercially available assay kits. C3G-DDP significantly inhibited the activity of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px. Simultaneously, C3G-DDP reduced GSH concentration while increased the concentration of ROS and MDA. Moreover, Western blot analysis suggested that C3G-DDP significantly reduced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) and Nrf2 target proteins: heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1). In contrast, C3G-DDP increased the expression of Keap1. Furthermore, C3G-DDP significantly upregulated and downregulated the mRNA expressions of bax and bcl-2, respectively, thereby increasing bax/bcl-2 mRNA expression ratio. Overall, our findings propose that potentiation of DDP with C3G improves cancer cell susceptibility, specifically cervical cancer cells, to DDP. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Cisplatin is recommended by most medical oncologists worldwide to treat cancer. Despite its neoplastic efficacy, it has undesirable side effects including nausea, vomiting, nephrotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. Natural biologically active food ingredients are suggested to be used as antioxidants along with DDP therapy to prevent cisplatin-induced toxicity. C3G-DDP protected HeLa cells from oxidative stress by reducing NQO1 and HO-1 levels and regulated the Nrf2 signaling pathway. In addition, C3G-DDP protected HeLa cells from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis by increasing bcl-2 levels and decreasing bax levels. These results expanded our understanding of the role of C3G in a cervical cancer cell model, and provided a potential new treatment strategy for this cancer, as well as a theoretical basis for the development of new drugs in the future.

The p53/p21/p16 and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways are involved in the ameliorative effects of maltol on D-galactose-induced liver and kidney aging and injury

Successive evidence has established that maltol, a flavor-enhancing agent, could provide resistance to oxidative stress-induced tissue injury in various animal models though its benefits for aging-induced liver and kidney injuries are still undetermined. In the present work, for demonstrating maltol's ameliorative effect and probable mechanism against aging-induced liver and kidney injuries, D-galactose (D-Gal)-induced animal in vivo and HEK293 cells in vitro models were established and results demonstrated that long-term D-Gal treatment increases the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in liver and kidney tissues, mitigates cell viability, and arrests the cycle. Interestingly, 4-weeks maltol treatment at 50 and 100 mg/kg activated aging-associated proteins including p53, p21, and p16 followed by inhibiting malondialdehyde (MDA)'s over-production and increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, decreases in cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1) and 4-hydroxydecene (4-HNE)'s immunofluorescence expression levels are confirmed. Furthermore, maltol improved oxidative stress injury by activating the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway. In conclusion, the purpose of the present study was to estimate the mechanistic insights into maltol's role as an antioxidant in liver and kidney cell senescence and injury, which will reflect potential of therapeutic strategy for antiaging and aging-related disease treatment.

Protective effects of natural products against drug-induced nephrotoxicity: A review in recent years

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) is a major cause of kidney damage and is associated with high mortality and morbidity, which limits the clinical use of certain therapeutic or diagnostic agents, such as antineoplastic drugs, antibiotics, immunosuppressive agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and contrast agents. However, in recent years, a number of studies have shown that many natural products (NPs), including phytochemicals, various plants extracts, herbal formulas, and NPs derived from animals, confer protective effects against DIN through multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms, such as inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and necroptosis, regulation of autophagy, maintenance of cell polarity, etc., by regulating multiple signaling pathways and novel molecular targets. In this review, we summarize and discuss the protective effects and mechanisms underlying the action of NPs against DIN found in recent years, which will contribute to the development of promising renal protective agents.

Cisplatin chemotherapy and renal function

Cisplatin has been a mainstay of cancer chemotherapy since the 1970s. Despite its broad anticancer potential, its clinical use has regularly been constrained by kidney toxicities. This review details those biochemical pathways and metabolic conversions that underlie the kidney toxicities. A wide range of redox events contribute to the eventual physiological consequences of drug activities.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Activated PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 Signaling Pathway is Involved in the Ameliorative Effects of Ginseng Polysaccharides against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice

Although previous studies have reported that saponins (ginsenosides, the major active and most representative ingredients in Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) exerted a good ameliorative effect on cisplatin (CP)-induced acute kidney injury in animal models, little attention has been paid to a large number of polysaccharides isolated and purified from ginseng. This work aimed to investigate the protective effect and the possible molecular mechanism of ginseng polysaccharide (WGP) on CP-induced kidney toxicology in mice. The results from biomarker analysis including serum creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) confirmed the protective effect of WGP at 200 and 400 mg/kg on CP-induced renal-toxicology. We found that WGP reduces the apoptosis of kidney cells by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress caused by CP, which is manifested by increased phosphorylation of PERK. In addition, the apoptosis-associated with caspase 3 activation in renal cells induced by CP was inhibited after administration of WGP, and the phosphorylation levels of PI3K and AKT were also reduced significantly. We also demonstrated that after exposure to CP, the unfolded protein response signaling pathway PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 axis was significantly activated, manifested by increased phosphorylation of eIF2α and increased expression of ATF4 and CHOP. Interestingly, the WGP administration improves this situation. Furthermore, the supplement of WGP inhibited the overexpression of nuclear factor-kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) caused by CP exposure. In short, for the first time, our findings indicated that WGP could effectively prevent CP-induced ER stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in renal cells, in part, by regulating the PI3K/AKT and PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 signaling pathways.

Alleviative effects of 20(R)-Rg3 on HFD/STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy via MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways in C57BL/6 mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication of diabetes. The kidney disease develops in nearly 20%-40% of type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. Ginseng is the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer and has been used in prevention and treatment of diseases for more than 2000 years as a traditional oriental medicine. The 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3, an active saponin isolated from ginseng, can prevent and treat many diseases. The object of this research was to explore the alleviative effects of 20(R)-Rg3 on DN in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The T2D animal model was induced by continuous access to a high fat diet (HFD) combined with a single injection of 100 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) in C57BL/6 mice. The mice were treated by oral gavage of the 20(R)-Rg3 (10, 20 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. Functional and histopathological analyses of the kidneys were then performed. Protein expression levels of MAPKs and NF-κB signal pathways in the kidney were evaluated by western blotting. The expressions of HO-1 and NF-κB in the kidney were measured by fluorescent labeling staining. Other assessments including fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, blood lipids, oxidative indicators, and inflammatory factors were all performed.

RESULTS

Abnormally elevated FBG levels were observed in HFD/STZ mice, contributing significantly to the occurrence of DN. Simultaneously, HFD/STZ mice showed the rise of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, and the decrease in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). DN was evidenced by the overproduction of malondialdehyde (MDA), decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymatic activities, high levels of serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr). Simultaneously, the results of the immunofluorescence assay showed an increased expression level in NF-κB p65 while a decrease in antioxidant enzyme HO-1 was observed. Herein, 20(R)-Rg3 treatment for 8 weeks not only attenuated FBG levels and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) levels but also improved insulin (INS) level, blood lipids, oxidative stress, and renal function by regulating MAPKs and NF-κB signal pathways in DN mice.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, the findings from the present study explicitly confirmed that 20(R)-Rg3 exerted ameliorative effects on DN mice via improving anti-oxidative activity and reducing renal inflammation.

Panax quinquefolium saponins protect against cisplatin evoked intestinal injury via ROS-mediated multiple mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is one of the most common chemotherapeutic drugs. Cisplatin-induced toxicity gives rise to gastrointestinal cell damage, subsequent diarrhea and vomiting, leading to the discontinuation of its clinical application in long-term cancer chemotherapy. Panax quinquefolium L., also known as American ginseng, has many pharmacological activities such as improving immunity, anti-tumor, anti-radiation and blood sugar lowering.

PURPOSE

Previously, our laboratory reported that American ginseng berry extract could alleviate chemotherapeutic agents-induced renal damage caused by cisplatin. Hence, this study further explored the protective effect of P. quinquefolium saponins (PQS) on cisplatin-induced intestinal injury in mice and the possible molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Biochemical markers, levels of inflammatory factors, histopathological staining and western blotting were used to analyze intestinal injury based on various molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

We demonstrated the destruction of the intestinal barrier caused by cisplatin exposure by detecting the activity of diamine oxidase (DAO) and the expression of tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin. Meanwhile, cisplatin exposure changed SOD and MDA levels in the small intestine, causing oxidative damage to the intestinal mucosa. The inflammation associated-intestinal damage was further explored by the measurement of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and analysis of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) inflammatory pathway protein expression. Moreover, apoptotic cells labeled with TUNEL staining-positive cells and activated caspase family proteins suggest that cisplatin induces intestinal apoptosis. Interestingly, PQS pretreatment significantly reversed these situations.

CONCLUSION

These evidences clearly suggest that PQS can alleviate cisplatin-induced intestinal damage by inhibiting oxidative stress, reducing the occurrence of inflammation and apoptosis, and improving intestinal barrier function.

Protective Effect of Panduratin A on Cisplatin-Induced Apoptosis of Human Renal Proximal Tubular Cells and Acute Kidney Injury in Mice

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is an effective chemotherapy but its main side effect, acute kidney injury, limits its use. Panduratin A, a bioactive compound extracted from Boesenbergia rotunda, shows several biological activities such as anti-oxidative effects. The present study investigated the nephroprotective effect of panduratin A on cisplatin-induced renal injury.

METHODS

We investigated the effect of panduratin A on the toxicity of cisplatin in both mice and human renal cell cultures using RPTEC/TERT1 cells.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that panduratin A ameliorates cisplatin-induced renal toxicity in both mice and RPTEC/TERT1 cells by reducing apoptosis. Mice treated with a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg body weight (BW)) exhibited renal tubule injury and impaired kidney function as shown by histological examination and increased serum creatinine. Co-administration of panduratin A (50 mg/kg BW) orally improved kidney function and ameliorated renal tubule injury of cisplatin by inhibiting activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and caspase 3. In human renal proximal tubular cells, cisplatin induced cell apoptosis by activating pro-apoptotic proteins (ERK1/2 and caspase 3), and reducing the anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). These effects were significantly ameliorated by co-treatment with panduratin A. Interestingly, panduratin A did not alter intracellular accumulation of cisplatin. It did not alter the anti-cancer efficacy of cisplatin in either human colon or non-small cell lung cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study highlights panduratin A has a potential protective effect on cisplatin's nephrotoxicity.

Platycodin D suppresses cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity by suppressing ROS-mediated oxidative damage, apoptosis, and inflammation in HEK-293 cells

Cisplatin, a proven effective chemotherapeutic agent, has been used clinically to treat malignant solid tumors, whereas its clinical use is limited by serious side effect including nephrotoxicity. Platycodin D (PD), the major and marked saponin isolated from Platycodon grandiflorum, possesses many pharmacological effects. In this study, we evaluated its protective effect against cisplatin-induced human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells injury and elucidated the related mechanisms. Our results showed that PD (0.25, 0.5, and 1 μM) can dose-dependently alleviate oxidative stress by decreasing malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species, while increasing the levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. Moreover, the elevation of apoptosis including Bax, Bad, cleaved caspase-3,-9, and decreased protein levels of Bcl-2, Bcl-XL induced by cisplatin were reversed after PD treatment. Importantly, PD pretreatment can also regulate PI3K/Akt and ERK/JNK/p38 signaling pathways. Furthermore, PD was found to reduce NF-κB-mediated inflammatory relative proteins. Our finding indicated that PD exerted significant effects on cisplatin induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammatory, which will provide evidence for the development of PD to attenuate cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

α-Mangostin, a Dietary Xanthone, Exerts Protective Effects on Cisplatin-Induced Renal Injury via PI3K/Akt and JNK Signaling Pathways in HEK293 Cells

Previous report has confirmed the beneficial effects of α-mangostin (α-MG), a major and representative xanthone distributed in mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) on the cisplatin-induced rat model. However, the molecular mechanisms related to its renoprotection have not been elucidated exhaustively. The present study investigated the protective effect of α-MG against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in the human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cell model. In this study, α-MG prevented cisplatin-induced cell death, accompanied with the decreased levels of malondialdehyde and increased glutathione content. Particularly, α-MG significantly suppressed the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), restored the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt), and downregulated the c-JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathways following cisplatin challenge. Subsequently, the cleavage of caspases and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) implicating ROS-mediated apoptosis pathways induced by cisplatin was effectively inhibited by α-MG. In conclusion, our findings provided a rationale for the development of α-MG to attenuate cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Saponins derived from the stems and leaves of Panax ginseng attenuate scrotal heat-induced spermatogenic damage via inhibiting the MAPK mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis in mice

Heat stress (HS) reaction is a stress response caused by adverse conditions. Currently, the incidence of reproductive malignancies particularly in males has been constantly increasing. This work investigated the effects of saponins derived from the stems and leaves of Panax ginseng (GSLS) on testicular injury induced by scrotal hyperthermia in mice. GSLS (150, 300 mg/kg) were administered intragastrically to mice for 14 days, then exposed to a single scrotal heat treatment at 43°C for 18 min on seventh day. HS induced a significant loss of multinucleate giant cells, desquamation of germ cells in destructive seminiferous tubules. Moreover, HS reduced the serum testosterone, testicular tissue superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione (GSH) content, while significantly enhanced the production of malondialdehyde (p < .05). GSLS exhibited the protective potential against HS-induced injury not only by modulating Bcl-2 family and caspase protease family, but also by suppressing the protein levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and activation of Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways (p < .05). In conclusion, we clearly demonstrated that GSLS exhibited a significant protective effect against HS-induced testicular dysfunction, mainly the inhibition of oxidative stress associated apoptosis partly via regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway.

The Antiemetic Effect of Xiao-Ban-Xia-Tang Formula against Cisplatin-Induced Emesis is Mediated through Inhibition of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in a Rat Pica Model

Xiao-Ban-Xia-Tang (XBXT), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used for the treatment of emesis for nearly 2000 years, but its underlying mechanism is not yet fully clarified. The purpose of this study is to reveal the antiemetic mechanisms of XBXT by focusing on the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in a chemotherapy-induced rat pica model. The pica model was generated by a single intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin in this study. Consumption of kaolin (a type of clay) and food and body weight were recorded every 24 hours. Cisplatin-induced increase in kaolin consumption (pica) was used to quantify chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Tissue from the ileum and antrum was stained with hematoxylin eosin (HE) to observe pathological changes. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β and IL-18 in serum, were detected by ELISA. In addition, changes in the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the ileum and antrum were investigated using western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy. The results showed that oral administration of XBXT and ondansetron inhibited acute and delayed pica and significantly protected against the gastrointestinal pathological injury induced by cisplatin. The levels of ROS, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the serum of cisplatin-treated rats were also remarkably decreased by XBXT and ondansetron. Moreover, we found that XBXT can inhibit cisplatin-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. The present study indicates that the inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome activation might be one of the potential mechanisms for the therapeutic effects of XBXT against CINV.

Antioxidative stress of oral administration of tea extract granule in chickens

The present study was to evaluate antioxidative effect of tea extract granule (TEG) on oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide (Cy) in chickens. In experiment 1, chickens were randomly divided into 5 groups with 10 birds in each. Groups 3 to 5 were orally administered TEG in drinking water for 7 D at doses of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg body weight, respectively. After that, groups 2 to 5 received intramuscular injection of Cy (100 mg/kg BW) for 3 D. Group 1 was not treated as a control. In experiment 2, chickens were grouped in the same way as in experiment 1. Groups 2 to 5 received intramuscular injection of Cy (100 mg/kg BW) for 3 D. After that, groups 3 to 5 were orally administered TEG in drinking water for 7 D at doses of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg BW, respectively. Results showed that Cy injection induced significantly decreased body weight and oxidative stress. Oral administration of TEG before or after Cy injection increased body weight, the thymus, bursa, and spleen indices, total antioxidant capacity, and the levels of glutathione; elevated the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase; as well as decreased the protein carbonyl content, lipid peroxide, and malondialdehyde. In addition, TEG administration reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species. Therefore, TEG could be a promising agent against oxidative stress in the poultry industry.

Farrerol Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity by Inhibiting the Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Oxidation, Inflammation, and Apoptotic Signaling Pathways

Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug that is often used in clinical practice, but its frequent use often leads to nephrotoxicity. Therefore, we urgently need a drug that reduces the nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin. Farrerol reportedly has antioxidant potential, but its renal protective effects and potential mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we used both cell and mouse models to determine the mechanism of farrerol in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The in vitro experiments revealed that farrerol improved cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production via nuclear factor erythrocyte 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation. Moreover, farrerol effectively activated Nrf2 and subsequently increased the expression of Nrf2-targeted antioxidant enzymes, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1), but inhibited Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and NADPH oxidase type 4 (NOX4). Furthermore, farrerol attenuated the phosphorylation of C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38); the activation of phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB (p-NF-κB) and nucleotide-binding domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3); and the expression of phosphorylated p53 (p-p53), Bax, and cleaved caspase-3. In vivo, farrerol significantly improved cisplatin-induced renal damage, as demonstrated by the recovery of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and pathological damage. Moreover, farrerol inhibited inflammatory and apoptotic protein expression in vivo. Notably, farrerol exerted slight protection in Nrf2-knockout mice compared with wild-type mice. These findings indicate that farrerol can effectively activate Nrf2 and can serve as a therapeutic target in the treatment of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Protective Role of Natural Products in Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin is a widely used antineoplastic agent for the treatment of metastatic tumors, advanced bladder cancer and many other solid tumors. However, at higher doses, toxicities such as nephrotoxicity may appear. Cisplatin leads to DNA damage and subsequently renal cell death. Besides that, oxidative stress is also implicated as one of the main causes of nephrotoxicity. Several studies showed that numerous natural products: ginseng, curcumin, licorice, honey and pomegranate were able to reduce the oxidative stress by restoring the levels of antioxidant enzymes and also at the same time act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Furthermore, pre-treatment with vitamin supplementation, such as vitamin C, E and riboflavin markedly decreased serum urea and increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes in the kidney even after cisplatin induction in cancer patients. These natural products possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties, and they can be safely used as a supplementary regime or combination therapy against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The present review focused on the protective role of a few natural products which is widely used in folk medicines in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Ginseng berry aqueous extract prevents scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice

Ginseng berry exhibits a diverse range of pharmacological activities. The present study aimed to examine the neuroprotective effects of ginseng berry aqueous extract (GBE) against oxidative stress and to assess the impact of GBE on memory impairment in mice. In HT-22 cells, GBE pretreatment significantly inhibited glutamate- and hydrogen peroxide-mediated cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner, while treatment with up to 100 µg/ml GBE alone did not change cell viability. In a murine model of scopolamine (SCP)-induced memory impairment, results from the passive avoidance test and the Morris water maze test indicated that GBE administration for 4 weeks prolonged step-through latency time and shortened escape latency time, suggesting that GBE can attenuate deficits in long-term memory induced by SCP. Additionally, GBE prevented SCP-induced reductions in acetylcholine by decreasing acetylcholinesterase activity and upregulating choline acetyltransferase mRNA levels in the hippocampus. GBE mitigated SCP-mediated mRNA decreases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and its associated signaling molecules. Furthermore, GBE administration significantly suppressed malondialdehyde production and increased glutathione levels, catalase activity and superoxide dismutase activity in SCP-induced memory impaired mice. Therefore, the results of the current study indicated that ginseng berry may be a potential candidate for treating or preventing memory deficits that are associated with neurodegenerative disorders.

Modulatory effect of zingerone against cisplatin or γ-irradiation induced hepatotoxicity by molecular targeting regulation

Zingerone (ZO) is an ingredient of ginger (Zingiber officinale) which has different pharmacological properties. The objective of this research was to evaluate the protective effect of ZO against Cisplatin (Cis) or γ-Irradiation (IR)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. ZO was given orally for consecutive 14 days prior to the treatment with Cis or exposure to IR at 15th day. Animals were sacrificed at the 23rd day. Cis or IR induced a marked increase in MAPK signal transduction as evidenced by increased p38 MAPK, JNK and ErK1/2. CYP2E1 and NADPH oxidase were significantly up-regulated. Inflammatory markers (TLR4, iNOS, COX-2 and MPO) and liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) activities were also increased. Administration of ZO significantly ameliorated the above mentioned parameters.

A polysaccharide from Huaier ameliorates cisplatin nephrotoxicity by decreasing oxidative stress and apoptosis via PI3K/AKT signaling

Cisplatin (CP), a common chemotherapy drug used in treatment of malignant tumors. Due to various side effects such as nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), it's efficiency and therapeutic application are limited. This study focuses on finding a suitable drug that would attenuate the side effects like kidney damage, caused by CP. Huaier polysaccharide (HP-1), an extraction of Trametes robiniophila Murr, with a molecular weight of 3 × 10⁴ Da. Previous studies have shown that HP-1, exhibits anti-tumor potential and immunomodulatory effects. We hypothesized that HP-1 has the effect of attenuating the nephrotoxicity caused by CP chemotherapy and protecting renal function. Through our experiments, we observed that HP-1 can attenuate the level of oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby reducing kidney damage. In vitro, we observed that HP-1 significantly inhibits CP-induced renal tubular cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In addition, HP-1 also affects the expression level of the protein by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and thus attenuates the side effects induced by cisplatin. Therefore, HP-1 may be a potential drug for preventing CP-induced renal damage.

Arginyl-fructosyl-glucose, a Major Maillard Reaction Product of Red Ginseng, Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Regulating Nuclear Factor κB and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B Signaling Pathways

Recently, although ginseng ( Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) and its main component saponins (ginsenosides) have been reported to exert protective effects on cisplatin (CDDP)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI), the beneficial activities of non-saponin on CDDP-induced AKI is little known. This research was designed to explore the protective effect and underlying mechanism of arginyl-fructosyl-glucose (AFG), a major and representative non-saponin component generated during the process of red ginseng, on CDDP-caused AKI. AFG at doses of 40 and 80 mg/kg remarkably reversed CDDP-induced renal dysfunction, accompanied by the decreased levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. Interestingly, all of oxidative stress indices were ameliorated after pretreatment with AFG continuously for 10 days. Importantly, AFG relieved CDDP-induced inflammation and apoptosis in part by mitigating the cascade initiation steps of nuclear factor κB signals and regulating the participation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signal pathway. In conclusion, these results clearly provide strong rationale for the development of AFG to prevent CDDP-induced AKI.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) as a Source of Bioactive Phytochemicals with Pro-Health Properties

Panax quinquefolium L. (American Ginseng, AG) is an herb characteristic for regions of North America and Asia. Due to its beneficial properties it has been extensively investigated for decades. Nowadays, it is one of the most commonly applied medical herbs worldwide. Active compounds of AG are ginsenosides, saponins of the glycosides group that are abundant in roots, leaves, stem, and fruits of the plant. Ginsenosides are suggested to be primarily responsible for health-beneficial effects of AG. AG acts on the nervous system; it was reported to improve the cognitive function in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, display anxiolytic activity, and neuroprotective effects against neuronal damage resulting from ischemic stroke in animals, demonstrate anxiolytic activity, and induce neuroprotective effects against neuronal damage in ischemic stroke in animals. Administration of AG leads to inhibition of hypertrophy in heart failure by regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mice as well as depletion of cardiac contractile function in rats. It also has an anti-diabetic and anti-obesity potential as it increases insulin sensitivity and inhibits formation of adipose tissue. AG displays anti-cancer effect by induction of apoptosis of cancer cells and reducing local inflammation. It exerts antimicrobial effects against several pathogenic strains of bacteria. Therefore, AG presents a high potential to induce beneficial health effects in humans and should be further explored to formulate precise nutritional recommendations, as well as to assess its value in prevention and therapy of some disorders, including cancer.

Müller cells in pathological retinal angiogenesis

Müller cells are the major glial cells spanning the entire layer of the retina and maintaining retinal structure. Under pathological conditions, Müller cells are involved in retinal angiogenesis, a process of growing new blood vessels from pre-existing capillaries. In response to hypoxia, high glucose, and inflammation conditions, multiple signaling pathways are activated in Müller cells, followed by the increased production of proangiogenic factors including vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, matrix metalloproteinases, Netrin-4, and angiopoietin-like 4. Expression of antiangiogenic factors is also downregulated in Müller cells. Besides, proliferation and dedifferentiation of Müller cells facilitates retinal angiogenesis. In this review, we summarized molecular mechanisms of Müller cells-related retinal angiogenesis. The potential of Müller cells as a therapeutic target for retinal angiogenesis was also discussed.

Renoprotective effect of scutellarin on cisplatin-induced renal injury in mice: Impact on inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy

Cisplatin remains the standard first-line chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of many types of cancers, but its clinical application is hindered by its severe nephrotoxicity. Previous studies reported that scutellarin enhanced the anti-cancer activity of cisplatin in lung cancer cells, with no confirmation on cisplatin-induced renal damage. Here, we investigated the nephroprotective effect of scutellarin on cisplatin-induced renal injury and its underlying mechanisms. Renal function, histological change, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy and involved pathways were investigated. Pretreatment with scutellarin prevented cisplatin-induced decline of renal function including BUN, CRE, and histological damage. Scutellarin also reduced renal inflammation by suppressing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α and IL-6. Similarly, scutellarin administration inhibited apoptosis triggered by cisplatin through reducing the expressions of Cleaved caspase-3, Cleaved PARP, p53, and the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. Moreover, scutellarin prevented cisplatin-induced inhibition of autophagy via enhancing LC3-II/LC3-I and Atg7, and inhibition of p62. Of note, the activations of JNK, ERK, p38 and stat3 induced by cisplatin were strikingly attenuated in scutellarin-treated mice. Thus, these results provide compelling evidence that scutellarin is a novel nephroprotectant against cisplatin-induced renal toxicity.

Pseudoginsengenin DQ Exhibits Therapeutic Effects in Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury via Sirt1/NF-κB and Caspase Signaling Pathway without Compromising Its Antitumor Activity in Mice

In this study, the protective effects of pseudoginsengenin DQ (PDQ) on cisplatin (CDDP)-induced nephrotoxicity were assessed, with a primary investigation into the mechanisms involved. Our results showed that pretreatment with PDQ remarkably restored levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CRE), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Meanwhile, PDQ decreased the CDDP-induced overexpression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1), TNF-α, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in renal tissues. Hoechst 33258 and TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining showed that CDDP-induced renal tubular cell apoptosis was apparently inhibited by PDQ. Western blotting showed that PDQ reversed the CDDP-induced (1) downregulation of Sirtuin-1 (Sirt-1), nuclear-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and Bcl-2, and (2) upregulation of NF-κB, Nox-4, Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3. In addition, PDQ enhanced the antitumor activity of cisplatin in Lewis lung cancer xenograft tumor model mice. In conclusion, we found that PDQ exerted a renal protective effect against CDDP-induced acute nephrotoxicity via Sirt1/NF-κB and the caspase signaling pathway without compromising the antitumor activity of CDDP, which provides a new potential strategy for the clinical treatment of cancer and presents a new medicinal application of PDQ.