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Tian CB, Qin ML, Qian YL, Qin SS, Shi ZQ, Zhao YL, Luo XD. Liver injury protection of Artemisia stechmanniana besser through PI3K/AKT pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118590. [PMID: 39029542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia stechmanniana Besser, one of the most prevalent botanical medicines in Chinese, has been traditionally used for hepatitis treatment. However, the bioactive components and pharmacological mechanism on alcohol-induced liver injury remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of A. stechmanniana on alcohol-induced liver damage, and further explore its mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Phytochemical isolation and structural identification were used to determine the chemical constituents of A. stechmanniana. Then, the alcohol-induced liver damage animal and cell model were established to evaluate its hepato-protective potential. Network pharmacology, molecular docking and bioinformatics were integrated to explore the mechanism and then the prediction was further supported by experiments. Moreover, both compounds were subjected to ADMET prediction through relevant databases. RESULTS 28 compounds were isolated from the most bioactive fraction, ethyl acetate extract A. stechmanniana, in which five compounds (abietic acid, oplopanone, oplodiol, hydroxydavanone, linoleic acid) could attenuate mice livers damage caused by alcohol intragastration, reduce the degree of oxidative stress, and serum AST and ALT, respectively. Furthermore, abietic acid and hydroxydavanone exhibited best protective effect against alcohol-stimulated L-O2 cells injury among five bioactive compounds. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis suggested that abietic acid and hydroxydavanone exhibiting drug likeliness characteristics, were the principal active compounds acting on liver injury treatment, primarily impacting to cell proliferation, oxidative stress and inflammation-related PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. Both of them displayed strong binding energies with five target proteins (HRAS, HSP90AA1, AKT1, CDK2, NF-κB p65) via molecular docking. Western blotting results further supported the predication with up-regulation of protein expressions of CDK2, and down-regulation of HRAS, HSP90AA1, AKT1, NF-κB p65 by abietic acid and hydroxydavanone. CONCLUSION Alcohol-induced liver injury protection by A. stechmanniana was verified in vivo and in vitro expanded its traditional use, and its two major bioactive compounds, abietic acid and hydroxydavanone exerted hepatoprotective effect through the regulation of PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Bo Tian
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Ma-Long Qin
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Yan-Ling Qian
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Shi-Shi Qin
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Zhuo-Qi Shi
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China
| | - Yun-Li Zhao
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Dong Luo
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, PR China.
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Shamsan E, Almezgagi M, Gamah M, Khan N, Qasem A, Chuanchuan L, Haining F. The role of PI3k/AKT signaling pathway in attenuating liver fibrosis: a comprehensive review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1389329. [PMID: 38590313 PMCID: PMC10999701 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1389329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the liver leads to a pathological condition known as liver fibrosis. Alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune issues, and viral hepatitis cause chronic liver injury. Exploring potential therapeutic targets and understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis are essential for the development of effective interventions. The goal of this comprehensive review is to explain how the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway contributes to the reduction of liver fibrosis. The potential of this pathway as a therapeutic target is investigated through a summary of results from in vivo and in vitro studies. Studies focusing on PI3K/AKT activation have shown a significant decrease in fibrosis markers and a significant improvement in liver function. The review emphasizes how this pathway may prevent ECM synthesis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, ultimately reducing the fibrotic response. The specific mechanisms and downstream effectors of the PI3K/AKT pathway in liver fibrosis constitute a rapidly developing field of study. In conclusion, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway plays a significant role in attenuating liver fibrosis. Its complex role in regulating HSC activation and ECM production, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo, underscores its potential as a effective therapeutic approach for managing liver fibrosis and slowing disease progression. A comprehensive review of this field provides valuable insights into its future developments and implications for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Shamsan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- College of Medical Science, Taiz University, Taiz, Yemen
| | - Maged Almezgagi
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Mohammed Gamah
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Naveed Khan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | | | - Liu Chuanchuan
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Fan Haining
- College of Clinical Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Zhao T, Li M, Wang Y, Cao J, Liu Y, Wang Z, Cheng G. Protective Effect of Que Zui Tea on d-Galactose-Induced Oxidative Stress Damage in Mice via Regulating SIRT1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway. Molecules 2024; 29:1384. [PMID: 38543018 PMCID: PMC10975416 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29061384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Que Zui tea (QT) is an important herbal tea in the diet of the 'Yi' people, an ethnic group in China, and it has shown significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects in vitro. This study aims to explore the protective effects of the aqueous-ethanol extract (QE) taken from QT against ᴅ-galactose (ᴅ-gal)-induced oxidative stress damage in mice and its potential mechanisms. QE was identified as UHPLC-HRMS/MS for its chemical composition and possible bioactive substances. Thus, QE is rich in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Twelve compounds were identified, the main components of which were chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, and 6'-O-caffeoylarbutin. Histopathological and biochemical analysis revealed that QE significantly alleviated brain, liver, and kidney damage in ᴅ-gal-treated mice. Moreover, QE remarkably attenuated oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to increase the expression of antioxidant indexes, including GSH, GSH-Px, CAT, SOD, and T-AOC. In addition, QE administration could inhibit the IL-1β and IL-6 levels, which suppress the inflammatory response. QE could noticeably alleviate apoptosis by inhibiting the expressions of Caspase-3 and Bax proteins in the brains, livers, and kidneys of mice. The anti-apoptosis mechanism may be related to the upregulation of the SIRT1 protein and the downregulation of the p53 protein induced by QE in the brain, liver, and kidney tissues of mice. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that the main components of QE, 6'-O-caffeoylarbutin, chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, and robustaside A, had good binding ability with Nrf2 and SIRT1 proteins. The present study indicated that QE could alleviate ᴅ-gal-induced brain, liver and kidney damage in mice by inhibiting the oxidative stress and cell apoptosis; additionally, the potential mechanism may be associated with the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchao Wang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Yongpeng Wang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Tianrui Zhao
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Mengcheng Li
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Yudan Wang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Jianxin Cao
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Yaping Liu
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Zhengxuan Wang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
| | - Guiguang Cheng
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China (Y.L.)
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Wang Y, Deng X, Liu Y, Wang Y, Luo X, Zhao T, Wang Z, Cheng G. Protective effect of Anneslea fragrans ethanolic extract against CCl4-induced liver injury by inhibiting inflammatory response, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 175:113752. [PMID: 37004906 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Anneslea Fragrans Wall. (AF) is a medicinal and edible plant distributed in China. Its leaves and bark generally used for the treatments of diarrhea, fever, and liver diseases. While its ethnopharmacological application against liver diseases has not been fully studied. This study was aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of ethanolic extract from A. fragrans (AFE) on CCl4 induced liver injury in mice. The results showed that AFE could effectively reduce plasma activities of ALT and AST, increase antioxidant enzymes activities (SOD and CAT) and GSH level, and decrease MDA content in CCl4 induced mice. AFE effectively decreased the expressions of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2 and iNOS), cell apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9) and increased Bcl-2 protein expression via inhibiting MAPK/ERK pathway. Additionally, TUNEL staining, Masson and Sirius red staining, immunohistochemical analyses revealed that AFE could inhibit the CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis formation via reducing depositions of α-SMA, collagen I and collagen III. Conclusively, the present study demonstrated that AFE had an hepatoprotective effect by MAPK/ERK pathway to inhibit oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis in CCl4-induced liver injury mice, suggesting that AFE might be served as a hepatoprotective ingredient in the prevention and treatment of liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudan Wang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China; National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Green Preparation Technology of Biobased Materials, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Xiaocui Deng
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Yaping Liu
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Yifen Wang
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Xiaodong Luo
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education and Yunnan Province, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Tianrui Zhao
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Zhengxuan Wang
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China.
| | - Guiguang Cheng
- Faculty of Food Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China.
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5
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Yu S, Long Y, Li D, Shi A, Deng J, Ma Y, Wen J, Li X, Zhang Y, Liu S, Wan J, Li N, Guo J. Natural essential oils efficacious in internal organs fibrosis treatment: mechanisms of action and application perspectives. Pharmacol Res 2022; 182:106339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Shang X, Yuan H, Dai L, Liu Y, He J, Chen H, Li H, Li X. Anti-Liver Fibrosis Activity and the Potential Mode of Action of Ruangan Granules: Integrated Network Pharmacology and Metabolomics. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:754807. [PMID: 35115923 PMCID: PMC8805709 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.754807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ruangan granules (RGGs) have been used to treat liver fibrosis with good clinical efficacy for many years. However, the potential mechanism of action of RGGs against liver fibrosis is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated the quality and safety of this preparation and aimed to explore the anti-liver fibrosis activity and potential mode of action of RGGs using network pharmacology and metabolomics. The results showed that RGGs contained abundant ferulic acid, salvianolic acid B and paeoniflorin, and at the given contents and doses, RGGs were safe and presented anti-liver fibrosis activity. They presented anti-liver fibrosis activity by improving liver function (ALT and AST, p < 0.01) and pathology and decreasing fibrosis markers in the serum of rats caused by CCl4, including HA, LN, PC III, HYP, CoII-V, and α-SMA, and the oxidant stress and inflammatory response were also alleviated in a dose-dependent manner, especially for high-dose RGGs (p < 0.01). Further studies showed that RGGs inhibited the activation of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in rats induced by CCl4, regulated pyrimidine metabolism, improved oxidative stress and the inflammatory response by regulating mitochondrial morphology, and alleviated liver fibrosis. Luteolin, quercetin, morin and kaempferol were active compounds and presented the cytotoxicity toward to LX-02 cells. This study provides an overall view of the mechanism underlying the action of RGGs protecting against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Shang
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huixin Yuan
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lixia Dai
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian He
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuhui Li
- Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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7
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Charan HV, Dwivedi DK, Khan S, Jena G. Mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated hepatic stellate cell activation: therapeutic potential for liver fibrosis. Genes Dis 2022; 10:480-494. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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8
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Kim KY, Yun UJ, Yeom SH, Kim SC, Lee HJ, Ahn SC, Park KI, Kim YW. Inhibition of Autophagy Promotes Hemistepsin A-Induced Apoptosis via Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated AMPK-Dependent Signaling in Human Prostate Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11121806. [PMID: 34944451 PMCID: PMC8699411 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is an essential strategy for cancer treatment. On the other hand, consistent exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs induces chemo-resistance in cancer cells through a variety of mechanisms. Therefore, it is important to develop a new drug inhibiting chemo-resistance. Although hemistepsin A (HsA) is known to have anti-tumor effects, the molecular mechanisms of HsA-mediated cell death are unclear. Accordingly, this study examined whether HsA could induce apoptosis in aggressive prostate cancer cells, along with its underlying mechanism. Using HsA on two prostate cancer cell lines, PC-3 and LNCaP cells, the cell analysis and in vivo xenograft model were assayed. In this study, HsA induced apoptosis and autophagy in PC-3 cells. HsA-mediated ROS production attenuated HsA-induced apoptosis and autophagy after treatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger. Moreover, autophagy inhibition by 3-MA or CQ is involved in accelerating the apoptosis induced by HsA. Furthermore, we showed the anti-tumor effects of HsA in mice, as assessed by the reduced growth of the xenografted tumors. In conclusion, HsA induced apoptosis and ROS generation, which were blocked by protective autophagy signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Youn Kim
- Korean Medicine (KM) Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 70 Cheomdan-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu 41062, Korea;
| | - Un-Jung Yun
- School of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (U.-J.Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
| | - Seung-Hee Yeom
- School of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (U.-J.Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
- Medical Research Center, College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea;
| | - Sang-Chan Kim
- Medical Research Center, College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea;
| | - Hu-Jang Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
| | - Soon-Cheol Ahn
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan 50612, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-C.A.); (K.-I.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
| | - Kwang-Il Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
- Correspondence: (S.-C.A.); (K.-I.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
| | - Young-Woo Kim
- School of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 38066, Korea; (U.-J.Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.-C.A.); (K.-I.P.); (Y.-W.K.)
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Zhu Z, Hu R, Li J, Xing X, Chen J, Zhou Q, Sun J. Alpinetin exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-angiogenic effects through activating the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting NLRP3 pathway in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107660. [PMID: 33862553 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alpinetin is the major active ingredient of Alpiniakatsumadai Hayata. As a kind of novel plant-derived flavonoid, alpinetin has shown potent hepatoprotective effect against many liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver and lipopolysaccharide/d-Galactosamine-induced liver injury. However, its roles in liver fibrosis remain to be determined. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of alpinetin in mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action. Alpinetin ameliorated the CCl4-induced liver injury and fibrosis in mice, as shown by decreased collagen deposition and the decreased expression of liver fibrosis marker proteins. Alpinetin suppressed the inflammation and oxidative stress in fibrotic livers of mice, as evidenced by decreased levels of proinflammatory factors, the decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and the increased activities of antioxidant enzymes. In addition, alpinetin attenuated the angiogenesis in fibrotic livers of the test animals. Mechanistically, alpinetin inhibited the CCl4-induced expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1, mature (cleaved-) IL-1β, and IL-18 in livers of mice. Furthermore, alpinetin resulted in an increased in the nuclear expression and a decrease in the cytoplasmic expression of Nrf2, as well as increased protein expression of downstream target enzymes, GCLC, HO-1, NQO1, and GCLM, thus exerting the antioxidant effect. Overall, these findings suggested that the anti-fibrotic effect of alpinetin can be attributed to the inhibition of NLRP3-mediated anti-inflammatory activities and Nrf2-mediated anti-oxidative activities, in addition to the decrement of hepatic angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiheng Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Renyue Hu
- Medical School of Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jidan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Xing
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Jianxin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Department of Operating Room, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China.
| | - Jingjun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226018, China.
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Hemistepsin a Induces Apoptosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Downregulating STAT3. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094743. [PMID: 33947048 PMCID: PMC8125382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemistepta lyrata (Bunge) Bunge is a biennial medicinal plant possessing beneficial effects including anti-inflammation, and hemistepsin A (HsA) isolated from H. lyrata has been known as a hepatoprotective sesquiterpene lactone. In this report, we explored the cytotoxic effects of H. lyrata on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and investigated the associated bioactive compounds and their relevant mechanisms. From the viability results of HCC cells treated with various H. lyrata extracts, HsA was identified as the major compound contributing to the H. lyrata-mediated cytotoxicity. HsA increased expression of cleaved PARP and cells with Sub-G1 phase, Annexin V binding, and TUNEL staining, which imply HsA induces apoptosis. In addition, HsA provoked oxidative stress by decreasing the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio and accumulating reactive oxygen species and glutathione-protein adducts. Moreover, HsA inhibited the transactivation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) by its dephosphorylation at Y705 and glutathione conjugation. Stable expression of a constitutive active mutant of STAT3 prevented the reduction of cell viability by HsA. Finally, HsA enhanced the sensitivity of sorafenib-mediated cytotoxicity by exaggerating oxidative stress and Y705 dephosphorylation of STAT3. Therefore, HsA will be a promising candidate to induce apoptosis of HCC cells via downregulating STAT3 and sensitizing conventional chemotherapeutic agents.
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Kim JK, Cho IJ, Kim EO, Lee DG, Jung DH, Ki SH, Ku SK, Kim SC. Hemistepsin A inhibits T0901317-induced lipogenesis in the liver. BMB Rep 2021. [PMID: 32843130 PMCID: PMC7907741 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2021.54.2.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Kwang Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
- Korean Medicine-Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Korea
| | - Il Je Cho
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
| | - Eun Ok Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
| | - Dae Geon Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
| | - Dae Hwa Jung
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
- Hani Bio Co., Ltd, Daegu 41059, Korea
| | - Sung Hwan Ki
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Korea
| | - Sae Kwang Ku
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
| | - Sang Chan Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
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Jin L, Kim EY, Chung TW, Han CW, Park SY, Han JH, Bae SJ, Lee JR, Kim YW, Jang SB, Ha KT. Hemistepsin A suppresses colorectal cancer growth through inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase activity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21940. [PMID: 33318678 PMCID: PMC7736850 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79019-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cancer cells primarily produce their energy through a high rate of glycolysis followed by lactic acid fermentation even in the presence of abundant oxygen. Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) 1, an enzyme responsible for aerobic glycolysis via phosphorylating and inactivating pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex, is commonly overexpressed in tumors and recognized as a therapeutic target in colorectal cancer. Hemistepsin A (HsA) is a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Hemistepta lyrata Bunge (Compositae). Here, we report that HsA is a PDK1 inhibitor can reduce the growth of colorectal cancer and consequent activation of mitochondrial ROS-dependent apoptotic pathway both in vivo and in vitro. Computational simulation and biochemical assays showed that HsA directly binds to the lipoamide-binding site of PDK1, and subsequently inhibits the interaction of PDK1 with the E2 subunit of PDH complex. As a result of PDK1 inhibition, lactate production was decreased, but oxygen consumption was increased. Mitochondrial ROS levels and mitochondrial damage were also increased. Consistent with these observations, the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells was promoted by HsA with enhanced activation of caspase-3 and -9. These results suggested that HsA might be a potential candidate for developing a novel anti-cancer drug through suppressing cancer metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Jin
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Yangsan, Gyeonsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Yeong Kim
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Yangsan, Gyeonsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Wook Chung
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Woo Han
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - So Young Park
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ho Han
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Jin Bae
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Rok Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 38610, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Woo Kim
- School of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, 38066, Korea
| | - Se Bok Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Ha
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Yangsan, Gyeonsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea.
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, 50612, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Park C, Lee H, Noh JS, Jin CY, Kim GY, Hyun JW, Leem SH, Choi YH. Hemistepsin A protects human keratinocytes against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress through activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 691:108512. [PMID: 32712291 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hemistepsin A, a sesquiterpene lactone compound isolated from Hemistepta lyrata, has been identified a variety of pharmacological actions including anti-hepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Nevertheless, the antioxidant effects of hemistepsin A and the underlying mechanisms have not been investigated properly. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the protective effect of hemistepsin A against oxidative stress in HaCaT human keratinocytes. The results demonstrated that hemistepsin A suppressed 500 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cytotoxicity and DNA damage by blocking ROS accumulation. 10 μM Hemistepsin A also prevented apoptosis by preventing the mitochondrial dysfunction and the cytosolic release of cytochrome c, reducing the rate of Bax/Bcl-2 expression, and decreasing the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, suggesting that hemistepsin A protected cells from H2O2-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. In addition, hemistepsin A markedly promoted the activation of nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which was associated with the enhanced expression and activity of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the presence of 500 μM H2O2. However, inhibiting the expression of HO-1 by artificially blocking the expression of Nrf2 or HO-1 using siRNA significantly eliminated the protective effect of hemistepsin A, indicating that hemistepsin A activates the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in HaCaT cells to protect against oxidative stress. Therefore, these results suggest that hemistepsin A may be useful as a potential therapeutic agent against various oxidative stress-related skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheol Park
- Division of Basic Sciences, College of Liberal Studies, Dong-eui University, Busan, 47340, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyesook Lee
- Anti-Aging Research Center, Dong-eui University, Busan, 47340, Republic of Korea; Department of Biochemistry, College of Korean Medicine, Dong-eui University, Busan, 47227, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Sook Noh
- Department of Food Science & Nutrition, Tongmyong University, Busan, 48520, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheng-Yun Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Gi-Young Kim
- Department of Marine Life Sciences, School of Marine Biomedical Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Won Hyun
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Leem
- Department of Biological Science, College of Natural Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Anti-Aging Research Center, Dong-eui University, Busan, 47340, Republic of Korea; Department of Biochemistry, College of Korean Medicine, Dong-eui University, Busan, 47227, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Hemistepsin A Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Induces G0/G1-Phase Arrest, Cellular Senescence and Apoptosis Via the AMPK and p53/p21 Signals in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050713. [PMID: 32375410 PMCID: PMC7277854 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemistepsin A (HsA), a natural sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Hemistepta lyrata, has been known as a wide range of anti-tumor effects. The aim of this study was to determine whether HsA suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to figure out the cellular signaling pathways involved in the anti-HCC activities by experiments using the Huh7 cells (a human HCC cell line) and a xenograft HCC model. In this study, HsA completely inhibited HCC cell proliferation, presumably because it induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial-related apoptosis. HsA up-regulated p53, p21, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase), but reduced cyclin D, CDK6 and Bcl-2 expressions, and it disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Moreover, phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) was increased by HsA as did the resveratrol and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR, positive controls). Inhibition of AMPK by using compound C, a competent inhibitor of AMPK, attenuated the loss of ΔΨm, p53 up-regulation and cellular senescence. The efficacy of HsA to reduce HCC cell proliferation, compared to that of other known anti-HCC agents, appears to be similar or slightly better. The anti-tumor effect of HsA was also determined in mice, showing reduced growth of xenografted tumors with no weight loss. Overall, the results suggest that HsA should be considered as a candidate anti-HCC drug.
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