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Zheng M, Liu Y, Zhang G, Yang Z, Xu W, Chen Q. The Antioxidant Properties, Metabolism, Application and Mechanism of Ferulic Acid in Medicine, Food, Cosmetics, Livestock and Poultry. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:853. [PMID: 39061921 PMCID: PMC11273498 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferulic acid is a ubiquitous ingredient in cereals, vegetables, fruits and Chinese herbal medicines. Due to the ferulic phenolic nucleus coupled to an extended side chain, it readily forms a resonant-stable phenoxy radical, which explains its potent antioxidant potential. In addition, it also plays an important role in anti-cancer, pro-angiogenesis, anti-thrombosis, neuroprotection, food preservation, anti-aging, and improving the antioxidant performance of livestock and poultry. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the structure, mechanism of antioxidation, application status, molecular mechanism of pharmacological activity, existing problems, and application prospects of ferulic acid and its derivatives. The aim is to establish a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ferulic acid in medicine, food, cosmetics, livestock, and poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Qinghua Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
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2
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Al Awadh AA, Sakagami H, Amano S, Sayed AM, Abouelela ME, Alhasaniah AH, Aldabaan N, Refaey MS, Abdelhamid RA, Khalil HMA, Hamdan DI, Abdel-Sattar ES, Orabi MAA. In vitro cytotoxicity of Withania somnifera (L.) roots and fruits on oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines: a study supported by flow cytometry, spectral, and computational investigations. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1325272. [PMID: 38303989 PMCID: PMC10830635 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1325272] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer is a severe health problem that accounts for an alarmingly high number of fatalities worldwide. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal has been extensively studied against various tumor cell lines from different body organs, rarely from the oral cavity. We thus investigated the cytotoxicity of W. somnifera fruits (W-F) and roots (W-R) hydromethanolic extracts and their chromatographic fractions against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines [Ca9-22 (derived from gingiva), HSC-2, HSC-3, and HSC-4 (derived from tongue)] and three normal oral mesenchymal cells [human gingival fibroblast (HGF), human periodontal ligament fibroblast (HPLF), and human pulp cells (HPC)] in comparison to standard drugs. The root polar ethyl acetate (W-R EtOAc) and butanol (W-R BuOH) fractions exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity against the Ca9-22 cell line (CC50 = 51.8 and 40.1 μg/mL, respectively), which is relatively the same effect as 5-FU at CC50 = 69.4 μM and melphalan at CC50 = 36.3 μM on the same cancer cell line. Flow cytometric analysis revealed changes in morphology as well as in the cell cycle profile of the W-R EtOAc and W-R BuOH-treated oral cancer Ca9-22 cells compared to the untreated control. The W-R EtOAc (125 μg/mL) exerted morphological changes and induced subG1 accumulation, suggesting apoptotic cell death. A UHPLC MS/MS analysis of the extract enabled the identification of 26 compounds, mainly alkaloids, withanolides, withanosides, and flavonoids. Pharmacophore-based inverse virtual screening proposed that BRD3 and CDK2 are the cancer-relevant targets for the annotated withanolides D (18) and O (12), and the flavonoid kaempferol (11). Molecular modeling studies highlighted the BRD3 and CDK2 as the most probable oncogenic targets of anticancer activity of these molecules. These findings highlight W. somnifera's potential as an affordable source of therapeutic agents for a range of oral malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abdullah Al Awadh
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hiroshi Sakagami
- Meikai University Research Institute of Odontology (M-RIO), Saitama, Japan
| | - Shigeru Amano
- Meikai University Research Institute of Odontology (M-RIO), Saitama, Japan
| | - Ahmed M. Sayed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Collage of Pharmacy, Almaaqal University, Basra, Iraq
| | - Mohamed E. Abouelela
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdulaziz Hassan Alhasaniah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nayef Aldabaan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed S. Refaey
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufiya, Egypt
| | - Reda A. Abdelhamid
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut-Branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Heba M. A. Khalil
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Dalia I. Hamdan
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Menoufia University, Shibin Elkom, Egypt
| | - El-Shaymaa Abdel-Sattar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. A. Orabi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
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Ghafouri‐Fard S, Askari A, Shoorei H, Seify M, Koohestanidehaghi Y, Hussen BM, Taheri M, Samsami M. Antioxidant therapy against TGF-β/SMAD pathway involved in organ fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18052. [PMID: 38041559 PMCID: PMC10826439 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis refers to excessive build-up of scar tissue and extracellular matrix components in different organs. In recent years, it has been revealed that different cytokines and chemokines, especially Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is involved in the pathogenesis of fibrosis. It has been shown that TGF-β is upregulated in fibrotic tissues, and contributes to fibrosis by mediating pathways that are related to matrix preservation and fibroblasts differentiation. There is no doubt that antioxidants protect against different inflammatory conditions by reversing the effects of nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur-based reactive elements. Oxidative stress has a direct impact on chronic inflammation, and as results, prolonged inflammation ultimately results in fibrosis. Different types of antioxidants, in the forms of vitamins, natural compounds or synthetic ones, have been proven to be beneficial in the protection against fibrotic conditions both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we reviewed the role of different compounds with antioxidant activity in induction or inhibition of TGF-β/SMAD signalling pathway, with regard to different fibrotic conditions such as gastro-intestinal fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, skin fibrosis, renal fibrosis and also some rare cases of fibrosis, both in animal models and cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri‐Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Arian Askari
- Phytochemistry Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Hamed Shoorei
- Cellular and Molecular Research CenterBirjand University of Medical SciencesBirjandIran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr HospitalTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Mohammad Seify
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences InstituteShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | - Yeganeh Koohestanidehaghi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences InstituteShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of PharmacyHawler Medical UniversityErbilIraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human GeneticsJena University HospitalJenaGermany
- Urology and Nephrology Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Majid Samsami
- Cancer Research Center, Loghman Hakim HospitalShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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4
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Qin S, Tan P, Xie J, Zhou Y, Zhao J. A systematic review of the research progress of traditional Chinese medicine against pulmonary fibrosis: from a pharmacological perspective. Chin Med 2023; 18:96. [PMID: 37537605 PMCID: PMC10398979 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00797-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease caused by a variety of etiologies. The disease can eventually lead to irreversible damage to the lung tissue structure, severely affecting respiratory function and posing a serious threat to human health. Currently, glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants are the main drugs used in the clinical treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, but their efficacy is limited and they can cause serious adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicines have important research value and potential for clinical application in anti-pulmonary fibrosis. In recent years, more and more scientific researches have been conducted on the use of traditional Chinese medicine to improve or reduce pulmonary fibrosis, and some important breakthroughs have been made. This review paper systematically summarized the research progress of pharmacological mechanism of traditional Chinese medicines and their active compounds in improving or reducing pulmonary fibrosis. We conducted a systematic search in several main scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial pneumonia, natural products, herbal medicine, and therapeutic methods. Ultimately, 252 articles were included and systematically evaluated in this analysis. The anti-fibrotic mechanisms of these traditional Chinese medicine studies can be roughly categorized into 5 main aspects, including inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improvement of extracellular matrix deposition, mediation of apoptosis and autophagy, and inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress. The purpose of this article is to provide pharmaceutical researchers with information on the progress of scientific research on improving or reducing Pulmonary fibrosis with traditional Chinese medicine, and to provide reference for further pharmacological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbo Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Peng Tan
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Junjie Xie
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Junning Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Liu S, Li L, Ren D. Anti-Cancer Potential of Phytochemicals: The Regulation of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Molecules 2023; 28:5069. [PMID: 37446730 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A biological process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) allows epithelial cells to change into mesenchymal cells and acquire some cancer stem cell properties. EMT contributes significantly to the metastasis, invasion, and development of treatment resistance in cancer cells. Current research has demonstrated that phytochemicals are emerging as a potential source of safe and efficient anti-cancer medications. Phytochemicals could disrupt signaling pathways related to malignant cell metastasis and drug resistance by suppressing or reversing the EMT process. In this review, we briefly describe the pathophysiological properties and the molecular mechanisms of EMT in the progression of cancers, then summarize phytochemicals with diverse structures that could block the EMT process in different types of cancer. Hopefully, these will provide some guidance for future research on phytochemicals targeting EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Lingyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Dongmei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China
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Abstract
The need for clinical remedies to the multiple age-related deficiencies in skin function brought on by extrinsic and intrinsic causes is increased by these demographic changes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) mutations, telomere shortening, as well as other factors, contribute to the aging of the skin. In this overview, the issue of human skin aging is introduced, along with several pathways and the protective effects of ferulic acid in light of current patents. The complex antioxidant effect of ferulic acid depends on the "sweeping" away of free radicals as well as the suppression of the synthesis of ROS or nitrogen. Furthermore, Cu (II) or Fe protonated metal ions are chelated by this acid (II). Ferulic acid is a free radical scavenger as well as an enzyme inhibitor, increasing the activity of enzymes that scavenge free radicals while decreasing the activity of enzymes that speed up the creation of free radicals. AMPK signalling, which can regulate cellular homeostasis, stress tolerance, cell survival and proliferation, cell death, and autophagy, has recently been linked to aging and lifespan. Therefore, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and rodents had longer life-spans due to specific AMPK activation. By inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway, UV irradiation can reduce the production of procollagen. Glycation changes the skin's physical characteristics, making it less elastic and stiffer. . Excessive free radicals simultaneously trigger the nuclear factor kappa B (NF- κB) signalling pathway, increasing TNF levels and matrix metalloproteinase production (MMPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Neopane
- Department of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Aditya Singh
- Department of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
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Zhai Y, Wang T, Fu Y, Yu T, Ding Y, Nie H. Ferulic Acid: A Review of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Effects on Pulmonary Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098011. [PMID: 37175715 PMCID: PMC10178416 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferulic acid (FA), a prevalent dietary phytochemical, has many pharmacological effects, including anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation effects, and has been widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industries. Many studies have shown that FA can significantly downregulate the expression of reactive oxygen species and activate nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling, exerting anti-oxidative effects. The anti-inflammatory effect of FA is mainly related to the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-kappaB signaling pathways. FA has demonstrated potential clinical applications in the treatment of pulmonary diseases. The transforming growth factor-β1/small mothers against decapentaplegic 3 signaling pathway can be blocked by FA, thereby alleviating pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, in the context of asthma, the T helper cell 1/2 imbalance is restored by FA. Furthermore, FA ameliorates acute lung injury by inhibiting nuclear factor-kappaB and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways via toll-like receptor 4, consequently decreasing the expression of downstream inflammatory mediators. Additionally, there is a moderate neuraminidase inhibitory activity showing a tendency to reduce the interleukin-8 level in response to influenza virus infections. Although the application of FA has broad prospects, more preclinical mechanism-based research should be carried out to test these applications in clinical settings. This review not only covers the literature on the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of FA, but also discusses the therapeutic role and toxicology of FA in several pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiman Zhai
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Tingyu Wang
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yunmei Fu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Hongguang Nie
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
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Yao J, Li Y, Meng F, Shen W, Wen H. Enhancement of suppression oxidative stress and inflammation of quercetin by nano-decoration for ameliorating silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37017410 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Silicosis is a life-threatening lung fibrotic disease caused by excessive inhalation of environmental exposure to crystalline silica-containing dust, whereas achieving therapeutic cures are constrained. Antioxidation and anti-inflammation are currently recognized as effective strategies to counteract organ fibrosis. Using naturally occurring phytomedicines quercetin (Qu) has emerged in antagonizing fibrotic disorders involving oxidative stress and inflammation, but unfortunately the hydrophilicity deficiency. Herein, chitosan-assisted encapsulation of Qu in nanoparticles (Qu/CS-NPs) was first fabricated for silicosis-associated fibrosis treatment by pulmonary delivery. Qu/CS-NPs with spherical diameters of ~160 nm, demonstrated a high Qu encapsulated capability, excellent hydrophilic stability, fantastic oxidation radical scavenging action, and outstanding controlled as well as slow release Qu action. A silicosis rat model induced by intratracheal instillation silica was established to estimate the anti-fibrosis effect of Qu/CS-NPs. After intratracheal administration, CS-NPs markedly enhanced Qu anti-fibrotic therapy efficacy, accompanying the evident changes in reducing ROS and MDA production to mitigate oxidative stress, inhibiting IL-1β and TNF-α release, improving lung histological architecture, down-regulating α-SAM levels and suppressing ECM deposition, and thereby ameliorating silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Results manifested that the augmented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Qu by CS-NPs delivery was a result of achieving this remarkable improvement in curative effects. Combined with negligible systemic toxicity, nano-decorated Qu may provide a feasible therapeutic option for silicosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Yao
- School of Medicine, Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control & Occupational Health and Safety, Ministry of Education, Huainan, China
| | - Yuxuan Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Fei Meng
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Wenwen Shen
- School of Medicine, Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control & Occupational Health and Safety, Ministry of Education, Huainan, China
| | - Hao Wen
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China
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Xue T, Yue L, Zhu G, Tan Z, Liu H, Gan C, Fan C, Su X, Xie Y, Ye T. An oral phenylacrylic acid derivative suppressed hepatic stellate cell activation and ameliorated liver fibrosis by blocking TGF-β1 signalling. Liver Int 2023; 43:718-732. [PMID: 36448910 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Liver fibrosis is an excessive wound-healing response governed by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). To date, there is no drug available for liver fibrosis. Although ferulic acid (FA) has multiple pharmacological functions, its anti-hepatic fibrosis activity is weak. Based on the activity modification of the FA structure, we synthesized a series of phenylacrylic derivatives and found a superior compound, FA11. In this study, we investigated its antifibrotic effect and mechanism. METHODS Activated HSC and CCl4 -induced mouse liver fibrosis were established and followed by FA11 treatment. Cell viability was measured by CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were conducted by flow cytometry. Western blot and Real-time qPCR were used to examine the expression of fibrotic and M1/M2-type macrophages markers. Degree of liver fibrosis was shown by histological staining. RESULTS In vitro, FA11 inhibited TGF-β1-induced LX-2 proliferation and led to apoptosis and cycle arrest. Furthermore, elevation of fibrotic markers in TGF-β1-induced LX-2 and primary activated HSC was reversed by FA11. In vivo, FA11 administration alleviated collagen deposition and blocked HSC activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, FA11 reduced macrophage infiltration in fibrotic liver and prevented macrophage polarization to a profibrotic phenotype. Meanwhile, the systemic toxicity of CCl4 was also ameliorated by FA11. Mechanistically, FA11 reversed the phosphorylation of canonical and noncanonical TGF-β1 signalling, as well as FGFR1 signalling. CONCLUSIONS We reported an oral phenylacrylic acid derivative, FA11, which showed excellent antifibrotic activity and was expected to be an anti-hepatic fibrosis candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taixiong Xue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Yue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guonian Zhu
- Institute of Respiratory Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zui Tan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongyao Liu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cailing Gan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Fan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Hospital of Chengdu Office of People's Government of Tibetan Autonomous Region (Hospital.C.T.), Chengdu, China
| | - Xingping Su
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Xie
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tinghong Ye
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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10
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Sun W, Shahrajabian MH. Therapeutic Potential of Phenolic Compounds in Medicinal Plants-Natural Health Products for Human Health. Molecules 2023; 28:1845. [PMID: 36838831 PMCID: PMC9960276 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenolic compounds and flavonoids are potential substitutes for bioactive agents in pharmaceutical and medicinal sections to promote human health and prevent and cure different diseases. The most common flavonoids found in nature are anthocyanins, flavones, flavanones, flavonols, flavanonols, isoflavones, and other sub-classes. The impacts of plant flavonoids and other phenolics on human health promoting and diseases curing and preventing are antioxidant effects, antibacterial impacts, cardioprotective effects, anticancer impacts, immune system promoting, anti-inflammatory effects, and skin protective effects from UV radiation. This work aims to provide an overview of phenolic compounds and flavonoids as potential and important sources of pharmaceutical and medical application according to recently published studies, as well as some interesting directions for future research. The keyword searches for flavonoids, phenolics, isoflavones, tannins, coumarins, lignans, quinones, xanthones, curcuminoids, stilbenes, cucurmin, phenylethanoids, and secoiridoids medicinal plant were performed by using Web of Science, Scopus, Google scholar, and PubMed. Phenolic acids contain a carboxylic acid group in addition to the basic phenolic structure and are mainly divided into hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids. Hydroxybenzoic acids are based on a C6-C1 skeleton and are often found bound to small organic acids, glycosyl moieties, or cell structural components. Common hydroxybenzoic acids include gallic, syringic, protocatechuic, p-hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, gentistic, and salicylic acids. Hydroxycinnamic acids are based on a C6-C3 skeleton and are also often bound to other molecules such as quinic acid and glucose. The main hydroxycinnamic acids are caffeic, p-coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Sun
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-13-4260-83836
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11
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Zhang N, Zhou J, Zhao L, Zhao Z, Wang S, Zhang L, Zhou F. Ferulic acid supplementation alleviates hyperuricemia in high-fructose/fat diet-fed rats via promoting uric acid excretion and mediating the gut microbiota. Food Funct 2023; 14:1710-1725. [PMID: 36722874 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo03332a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of hyperuricemia (HUA) has been rising, and it is typically accompanied by renal injury and intestinal flora disorder, leading to a non-negligible health crisis. Ferulic acid (FA), as a familiar polyphenol, has been proven to exert anti-hyperuricemic properties via inhibiting uric acid (UA) synthesis; however, the detailed underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the regulatory effect of FA on UA excretion as a potential strategy for reducing UA levels, and the comorbidities of HUA. FA treatment downregulated the expression of urate absorption transporter genes and repressed the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway in UA-stimulated HK-2 cells. To examine these effects in vivo, FA or allopurinol (positive control) was given to rats with HUA induced by a high-fructose/fat diet (HFFD) for 20 weeks. FA markedly decreased the serum UA, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine levels. The expression of urate absorption transporters was downregulated, whereas the expression of secretion transporters was upregulated in the kidneys and intestines of FA-treated HUA rats. Additionally, FA mitigated renal oxidative stress, and suppressed the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and the downstream inflammatory response-related markers in the kidneys. Moreover, FA remodeled the composition of the gut microbiota, characterized by an increase in beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus and Ruminococcus) and a decrease in pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides). In conclusion, our study validated FA as an effective nutrient to ameliorate HFFD-induced HUA, suggesting its potential to mitigate the HUA-associated renal impairment and intestinal microbiota disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanhai Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingxuan Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liang Zhao
- Beijing Advance Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Engineering and Technology Research Center of Food Additives, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shiran Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liebing Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Functional Food from Plant Resources, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
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Drishya S, Dhanisha SS, Raghukumar P, Guruvayoorappan C. Amomum subulatum mitigates experimental thoracic radiation-induced lung injury by regulating antioxidant status and inflammatory responses. Food Funct 2023; 14:1545-1559. [PMID: 36655677 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo03208b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is one of the most prominent complications of thoracic radiotherapy for which effective therapy is still lacking. This study investigates the nutraceutical potential of the culinary spice Amomum subulatum in mitigating thoracic radiation-induced pneumonitis (RP) and pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Mouse models of RP and PF were established by whole thorax irradiation at a dose of 25 gray. C57BL/6 mice were administered with 250 mg per kg body weight of methanolic extract of A. subulatum dry fruits (MEAS) for four consecutive weeks and observed for changes in lung tissue antioxidant activities, oxidative stress parameters, and expression of antioxidant, inflammation, and fibrosis-related genes by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and real-time PCR analysis, and histology analysis. MEAS administration reduced radiation-induced oxidative stress by enhancing the expression of Nrf2 and its target genes. Irradiation increased gene expression of inflammatory mediators and lung histology further confirmed the characteristics of RP, which were reduced by MEAS treatment. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed the potential of MEAS in reducing the radiation-induced elevation of cyclooxygenase 2 expression in the lungs. The late sequel of RILI was manifested as PF, characterized by the elevated expression of pro-fibrotic genes and increased collagen content. However, MEAS administration markedly reduced radiation-induced fibrotic changes in the lungs. These effects might be attributed to the synergistic effect of bioactive polyphenols in MEAS with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic efficacies. Taken together, this study demonstrates the potential of MEAS in mitigating RILI, suggesting the possible nutraceutical application of A. subulatum against radiation toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarsanan Drishya
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011 (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Kerala, India.
| | - Suresh Sulekha Dhanisha
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011 (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Kerala, India.
| | - Paramu Raghukumar
- Division of Radiation Physics, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Chandrasekharan Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research, Regional Cancer Centre, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011 (Research Centre, University of Kerala), Kerala, India.
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Gaun S, Ali SA, Singh P, Patwa J, Flora SJS, Datusalia AK. Melatonin ameliorates chronic copper-induced lung injury. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:24949-24962. [PMID: 35359208 PMCID: PMC8970640 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19930-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Copper (Cu) is an important trace element required for several biological processes. The use of copper is increasing gradually in several applications. Previous studies suggest that excess levels of copper are attributed to induce oxidative stress and inflammation, mediating tissue damage. Inline, melatonin the hormone of darkness has been reported to exhibit various therapeutic effects including strong free radical scavenging properties and anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effects against pulmonary injury promoted by copper are not explored and remain unclear so far. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the protective effect of melatonin against copper-induced lung damage. Female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to 250 ppm of copper in drinking water for 16 weeks and treated with melatonin (i.p.) 5 and 10 mg/kg from the week (13-16th). The extent of tissue damage was assessed by tissue oxidative stress parameters, metal estimation and histological analysis. Copper-challenged rats showed altered oxidative stress variables. In addition, metal analysis revealed increased copper accumulation in the lungs and histological staining results further indicated severe tissue injury and inflammatory cell infiltration in copper-exposed rats. To this side, treatment with melatonin showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities evidenced by reduced oxidative stress, tissue inflammation and collagen deposition as compared to copper-exposed animals. Moreover, spectral findings suggested melatonin treatment modulated the frequency sift, as compared to copper-challenged animals. Altogether, the present results suggest that melatonin might play a potential role in preventing copper-induced lung aberrations via inhibiting the ROS-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Gaun
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India
| | - Syed Afroz Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India
| | - Pooja Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India
| | - Jayant Patwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India
| | - Swaran Jeet Singh Flora
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Datusalia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India.
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit campus, Lucknow, U.P., 226002, India.
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Inhibition of Oncogenic Src Ameliorates Silica-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via PI3K/AKT Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010774. [PMID: 36614217 PMCID: PMC9821169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a refractory disease. Previous studies indicate that damaged alveolar epithelial cells act as a driver in pulmonary fibrosis. Our results show that epithelial cells that acquire the mesenchymal phenotype are associated with the pathogenesis of silicosis. c-Src kinase, a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, has been shown to be a positive regulator of organ fibrosis, but specific mechanisms remain unclear and rarely researched in silicosis. The activated Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases/AKT(PI3K/AKT) pathway promotes fibrosis. We aimed to determine whether c-Src regulates fibrosis via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the development of silicosis. C57/BL mice were intratracheally perfused with 10 mg silica suspension to establish a model of silicosis. In vivo, silica particles induced lung fibrosis. The profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) exhibited a high expression in pulmonary fibrosis. The phosphorylated c-Src protein was increased and the PI3K/AKT pathway was activated in model lung tissue. In vitro, silica increased the expression of TGF-β1- and TGF-β1-induced mesenchymal phenotype and fibrosis in a mouse epithelial cells line. siRNA-Src inhibited the c-Src, the phosphorylation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, and the mesenchymal phenotype induced by TGF-β1. LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K, suppressed the phosphorylation of PI3K/AKT but did not affect Src activation. SU6656, a selective Src inhibitor, attenuated fibrosis in silicosis model. In summary, c-Src promotes fibrosis via the PI3K/AKT pathway in silica-induced lung fibrosis, and Src kinase inhibitors are potentially effective for silicosis treatment.
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Deng L, Zhou X, Tao G, Hao W, Wang L, Lan Z, Song Y, Wu M, Huang JQ. Ferulic acid and feruloylated oligosaccharides alleviate anxiety and depression symptom via regulating gut microbiome and microbial metabolism. Food Res Int 2022; 162:111887. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.111887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Ali SA, Bommaraju S, Patwa J, Khare P, Rachamalla M, Niyogi S, Datusalia AK. Melatonin Attenuates Extracellular Matrix Accumulation and Cardiac Injury Manifested by Copper. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022:10.1007/s12011-022-03509-8. [PMID: 36449149 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03509-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Copper-induced cardiac injury is not widely reported in spite of its ability to cause oxidative damage and tissue injury. Structural and morphological changes in the cardiac tissue are triggered via oxidative stress and inflammatory responses following copper exposure. The varied and unavoidable exposure of copper through contaminated food and water warrants a safe and effective agent against its harmful effects. Since the heart is highly sensitive to changes in the redox balance, the present study was undertaken to examine the protective effects of melatonin against copper-induced cardiac injury. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to 100 ppm of elemental copper via drinking water for 4 months. The cardiac tissue was evaluated for various biochemical, histological, and protein expression studies. Animals exposed to copper exhibited induced oxidative stress and cardiac injury compared to normal control. To this end, we found that melatonin treatment ameliorated copper-induced alterations in tissue oxidative variables like ROS, nitrate, MDA, and GSH. In addition, histological examinations unravelled decreased cardiac muscle dilation, atrophy, and cardiomyopathy in melatonin-treated rats. Furthermore, melatonin-treated rats were associated with reduced tissue copper levels, collagen deposition, α-SMA, and increased HO-1 expression as compared to rats exposed exclusively to copper. Moreover, the levels of NF-κB and cardiac markers such as CK-MB, cTnI, and cTnT were found to be decreased in the melatonin-treated animals. Altogether, melatonin-triggered increase in antioxidant capacity resulting in reduced aggregation of ECM components demonstrates the therapeutic potential of melatonin in the treatment of cardiac injury and tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Afroz Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow, 226002, India
| | - Sumadhura Bommaraju
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow, 226002, India
| | - Jayant Patwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow, 226002, India
| | - Puja Khare
- Crop Production and Protection Division, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Mahesh Rachamalla
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Som Niyogi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Ashok Kumar Datusalia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow, 226002, India.
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Raebareli, Lucknow, 226002, India.
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Zhang R, Li W, Jiang X, Cui X, You H, Tang Z, Liu W. Ferulic Acid Combined With Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates the Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells and Alleviates Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:863797. [PMID: 35721175 PMCID: PMC9205407 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.863797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can effectively alleviate liver fibrosis, but the efficacy of cell therapy alone is insufficient. In recent years, a combination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and cell therapy has been increasingly used to treat diseases in clinical trials. Ferulic acid (FA) is highly effective in treating liver fibrosis, and a combination of cells and drugs is being tested in clinical trials. Therefore, we combined BMSCs and Ferulic acid to treat CCl4-induced fibrosis and determine whether this combination was more effective than single treatment. We used BMSCs and FA to treat CCl4-induced fibrosis in rat models, observed their therapeutic effects, and investigated the specific mechanism of this combination therapy in liver fibrosis. We created a BMSC/hepatic stellate cell (HSC) coculture system and used FA to treat activated HSCs to verify the specific mechanism. Then, we used cytochalasin D and angiotensin II to investigate whether BMSCs and FA inactivate HSCs through cytoskeletal rearrangement. MiR-19b-3p was enriched in BMSCs and targeted TGF-β receptor II (TGF-βR2). We separately transfected miR-19b-3p into HSCs and BMSCs and detected hepatic stellate cell activation. We found that the expression of the profibrotic markers α-SMA and COL1-A1 was significantly decreased in the combination group of rats. α-SMA and COL1-A1 levels were also significantly decreased in the HSCs with the combination treatment. Cytoskeletal rearrangement of HSCs was inhibited in the combination group, and RhoA/ROCK pathway gene expression was decreased. Following angiotensin II treatment, COL1-A1 and α-SMA expression increased, while with cytochalasin D treatment, profibrotic gene expression decreased in HSCs. The expression of COL1-A1, α-SMA and RhoA/ROCK pathway genes was decreased in the activated HSCs treated with a miR-19b-3p mimic, indicating that miR-19b-3p inactivated HSCs by suppressing RhoA/ROCK signalling. In contrast, profibrotic gene expression was significantly decreased in the BMSCs treated with the miR-19b-3p mimic and FA or a miR-19b-3p inhibitor and FA compared with the BMSCs treated with the miR-19b-3p mimic alone. In conclusion, the combination therapy had better effects than FA or BMSCs alone. BMSC and FA treatment attenuated HSC activation and liver fibrosis by inhibiting cytoskeletal rearrangement and delivering miR-19b-3p to activated HSCs, inactivating RhoA/ROCK signalling. FA-based combination therapy showed better inhibitory effects on HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhang Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodan Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Cui
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjie You
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zuoqing Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenlan Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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18
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Bioactive Compounds and Their Derivatives: An Insight into Prospective Phytotherapeutic Approach against Alzheimer’s Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:5100904. [PMID: 35450410 PMCID: PMC9017558 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5100904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative brain disorder that causes cellular response alterations, such as impaired cholinergic mechanism, amyloid-beta (Aβ) AD aggregation, neuroinflammation, and several other pathways. AD is still the most prevalent form of dementia and affects many individuals across the globe. The exact cause of the disorder is obscure. There are yet no effective medications for halting, preventing, or curing AD's progress. Plenty of natural products are isolated from several sources and analyzed in preclinical and clinical settings for neuroprotective effects in preventing and treating AD. In addition, natural products and their derivatives have been promising in treating and preventing AD. Natural bioactive compounds play an active modulatory role in the pathological molecular mechanisms of AD development. This review focuses on natural products from plant sources and their derivatives that have demonstrated neuroprotective activities and maybe promising to treat and prevent AD. In addition, this article summarizes the literature pertaining to natural products as agents in the treatment of AD. Rapid metabolism, nonspecific targeting, low solubility, lack of BBB permeability, and limited bioavailability are shortcomings of most bioactive molecules in treating AD. We can use nanotechnology and nanocarriers based on different types of approaches.
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Ferulic acid: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and derivatives. Life Sci 2021; 284:119921. [PMID: 34481866 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ferulic acid, a kind of phenolic substance widely existing in plants, is an important active component of many traditional Chinese medicines. So far, it has been proved that ferulic acid has a variety of biological activities, especially in oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular endothelial injury, fibrosis, apoptosis and platelet aggregation. Many studies have shown that ferulic acid can inhibit PI3K/AKT pathway, the production of ROS and the activity of aldose reductase. The anti-inflammatory effect of ferulic acid is mainly related to the levels of PPAR γ, CAM and NF-κ B and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Ferulic acid not only protects vascular endothelium by ERK1/2 and NO/ET-1 signal, but also plays an anti-fibrosis role by TGF-β/Smad and MMPs/TIMPs system. Moreover, ferulic acid has ant-apoptotic and anti-platelet effects. In addition to the pharmacological effects of ferulic acid, its pharmacokinetics and derivatives were also discussed in this paper. This review provides the latest summary of the latest research on ferulic acid.
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20
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Wu J, Xue X, Fan G, Gu Y, Zhou F, Zheng Q, Liu R, Li Y, Ma B, Li S, Huang G, Ma L, Li X. Ferulic Acid Ameliorates Hepatic Inflammation and Fibrotic Liver Injury by Inhibiting PTP1B Activity and Subsequent Promoting AMPK Phosphorylation. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:754976. [PMID: 34566665 PMCID: PMC8455917 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.754976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation in response to persistent exogenous stimuli or damage results in liver fibrosis, which subsequently progresses into malignant liver diseases with high morbidity and mortality. Ferulic acid (FA) is a phenolic acid widely isolated from abundant plants and exhibits multiple biological activities including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammation and enhancement of immune responses. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) functions as a critical energy sensor and is regulated through the phosphorylation of liver kinases like LKB1 or dephosphorylation by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). However, the role of FA in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic inflammation and liver fibrosis and AMPK activation has not been elucidated. Here we reported that FA ameliorated CCl4-induced inflammation and fibrotic liver damage in mice as indicated by reduced levels of serum liver function enzyme activities and decreased expression of genes and proteins associated with fibrogenesis. Additionally, FA inhibited hepatic oxidative stress, macrophage activation and HSC activation via AMPK phosphorylation in different liver cells. Mechanically, without the participation of LKB1, FA-induced anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects were abrogated by a specific AMPK inhibitor, compound C. Combining with the results of molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance and co-immunoprecipitation assays, we further demonstrated that FA directly bound to and inhibited PTP1B, an enzyme responsible for dephosphorylating key protein kinases, and eventually leading to the phosphorylation of AMPK. In summary, our results indicated that FA alleviated oxidative stress, hepatic inflammation and fibrotic response in livers through PTP1B-AMPK signaling pathways. Taken together, we provide novel insights into the potential of FA as a natural product-derived therapeutic agent for the treatment of fibrotic liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhi Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyong Xue
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guifang Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yiqing Gu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zheng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Runping Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yajing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Boning Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shuo Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guangrui Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojiaoyang Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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21
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The Potential Antioxidant Activity and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds of Stahlianthus involucratus. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:9490162. [PMID: 34485528 PMCID: PMC8410416 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9490162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Stahlianthus involucratus (S. involucratus) has anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antipyretic activities; however, there are no literature reports on its antioxidant capacity. This study presents a comparative assessment of the polyphenols contents, flavonoids contents, and antioxidant activity of the aqueous and methanol extracts of S. involucratus (ASI and MSI). Moreover, the expression of oxidative stress-related genes in H2O2-induced H9c2 cells pretreated with the MSI was measured by RT-qPCR, and furthermore, MSI were characterized by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS. The results indicated that the MSI had higher antioxidant contents and antioxidant capacity, and MSI could inhibit H2O2-induced oxidative stress in H9c2 cells by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS characterized 15 phenolic compounds from the MSI. In conclusion, S. involucratus has the potential antioxidant capacity.
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22
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Wang J, Wu Q, Ding L, Song S, Li Y, Shi L, Wang T, Zhao D, Wang Z, Li X. Therapeutic Effects and Molecular Mechanisms of Bioactive Compounds Against Respiratory Diseases: Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and High-Frequency Use. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:734450. [PMID: 34512360 PMCID: PMC8429615 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.734450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory diseases, especially the pandemic of respiratory infectious diseases and refractory chronic lung diseases, remain a key clinical issue and research hot spot due to their high prevalence rates and poor prognosis. In this review, we aimed to summarize the recent advances in the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of key common bioactive compounds from Chinese herbal medicine. Based on the theories of traditional Chinese medicine related to lung diseases, we searched several electronic databases to determine the high-frequency Chinese medicines in clinical application. The active compounds and metabolites from the selected medicines were identified using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) by analyzing oral bioavailability and drug similarity index. Then, the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of the selected bioactive compounds in the viral and bacterial infections, inflammation, acute lung injury (ALI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and lung cancer were summarized. We found that 31 bioactive compounds from the selected 10 common Chinese herbs, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), kaempferol, isorhamnetin, quercetin, and β-sitosterol, can mainly regulate NF-κB, Nrf2/HO-1, NLRP3, TGF-β/Smad, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways to inhibit infection, inflammation, extracellular matrix deposition, and tumor growth in a series of lung-related diseases. This review provides novel perspectives on the preclinical study and clinical application of Chinese herbal medicines and their bioactive compounds against respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Respiratory, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Qibiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Lu Ding
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Siyu Song
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yaxin Li
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Respiratory, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Tan Wang
- Department of Respiratory, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Daqing Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Scientific Research, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangyan Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
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23
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Ali SA, Saifi MA, Godugu C, Talla V. Silibinin alleviates silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis: Potential role in modulating inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5290-5304. [PMID: 34250649 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a devastating interstitial lung disease resulting from indefinite causes with very few limited, those too ineffective therapeutic options. Earlier evidence reported inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are the major threats in PF. The present study was aimed to examine the anti-fibrotic activity of silibinin (SB) in PF. PF was induced by administering oropharyngeal 1.5 mg/mice silica on day 1, followed by treatment with and without oral SB for 14 days. Lung injury was assessed by x-ray analysis on day 14 and all the animals were sacrificed on day 15. The results showed that silica remarkably altered the histoarchitecture and induced the expression of inflammatory components in BALF and pulmonary tissue. Immunoblotting investigation quantified the expression of TGF-β, p-smad2/3, collagen-I, fibronectin, and α-SMA in the pulmonary tissue. To this end, treatment with SB alleviated inflammatory components, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the fibrotic tissue. Moreover, SB harnessed the tissue architecture, improved diffusive scattering of x-ray signals, and modulated epithelial-mesenchymal phenotypic alterations, including TGF-β, p-smad2/3, and collagen-I. Altogether, the significant reduction of inflammatory signaling, collagen deposition, and epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation by SB suggested that it could be used as a potential therapeutic candidate to treat pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Afroz Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-(NIPER), Hyderabad, India.,Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-(NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Mohd Aslam Saifi
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-(NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-(NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Venu Talla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-(NIPER), Hyderabad, India
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