Protective effects of rutin on liver injury induced by biliary obstruction in rats

Effects of Different Levels of Lycium barbarum Flavonoids on Growth Performance, Immunity, Intestinal Barrier and Antioxidant Capacity of Meat Ducks

Background: In vitro findings on the biological functions of Lycium barbarum flavonoids (LBFs) as feed additives are limited. This study aimed to explore the effects of different concentrations of LBFs on the growth performance, immune function, intestinal barrier, and antioxidant capacity of meat ducks. A total of 240 one-day-old male meat ducks were randomly allocated to four groups, each receiving a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control), 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg of LBFs for 42 d. Results: The results showed that dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg of LBFs resulted in a significant increase in average daily feed intake, body weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio. Dietary supplementation with 500 or 1000 mg/kg of LBFs resulted in significant decreases in serum levels of D-lactic acid and lipopolysaccharide. Dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg LBFs significantly decreased diamine oxidase activity and enhanced the activities of catalase, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase in the jejunal mucosa, as well as the activity of total superoxide dismutase and the content of glutathione in the ileal mucosa, while significantly lowering the content of malondialdehyde in the ileal mucosa. Dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg LBFs significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression of genes associated with intestinal barrier function and antioxidant capacity in the jejunal and ileal mucosa, as well as the protein expression of these antioxidant genes, and led to a significant reduction in the mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic and inflammatory-related genes. Conclusions: The addition of LBFs to the diet improved the growth performance, intestinal barrier function, immune response, and antioxidant capacity of the ducks, which may be closely associated with the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway and the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. The optimal dietary inclusion level of LBFs in ducks was 500 mg/kg.

Activation of Nrf2 and FXR via Natural Compounds in Liver Inflammatory Disease

Liver inflammation is frequently linked to oxidative stress and dysregulation of bile acid and fatty acid metabolism. This review focuses on the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a critical regulator of bile acid homeostasis, and its interaction with the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a key modulator of cellular defense against oxidative stress. The review explores the interplay between FXR and Nrf2 in liver inflammatory diseases, highlighting the potential therapeutic effects of natural FXR agonists. Specifically, compounds such as auraptene, cafestol, curcumin, fargesone A, hesperidin, lycopene, oleanolic acid, resveratrol, rutin, ursolic acid, and withaferin A are reviewed for their ability to modulate both the FXR and Nrf2 pathways. This article discusses their potential to alleviate liver inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage in diseases such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), cholestatic liver injury, and viral hepatitis. In addition, we address the molecular mechanisms driving liver inflammation, including oxidative stress, immune responses, and bile acid accumulation, while also summarizing relevant experimental models. This review emphasizes the promising therapeutic potential of targeting both the Nrf2 and FXR pathways using natural compounds, paving the way for future treatments for liver diseases. Finally, the limitations of the clinical application were indicated, and further research directions were proposed.

Sophorin mitigates flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in wistar rats

Flutamide is frequently used in the management of prostate cancer, hirsutism, and acne. It is a non-steroidal anti-androgenic drug and causes hepatotoxicity. The current study's objective is to evaluate sophorin's hepatoprotective effectiveness against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Sophorin is a citrus flavonoid glycoside, also known as rutin, which is a low molecular weight polyphenolic compound with natural antioxidant properties and reported to have promising hepatoprotective efficacy. In this study, sophorin was used at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight in purified water via oral route for 4 week daily whereas, flutamide was used at a dose of 100 mg kg/b.wt for 4 weeks daily in 0.5% carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) through the oral route for the induction of hepatotoxicity. Flutamide administration leads to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, an imbalance in redox homeostasis and peroxidation of lipid resulted in reduced natural antioxidant level in liver tissue. Our result demonstrated that sophorin significantly abrogate flutamide induced lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl (PC), and also significantly increasesed in enzymatic activity/level of tissue natural antioxidant such as reduced glutathione(GSH), glutathione reductase(GR), catalase, and superoxide dismutase(SOD). Additionally, sophorin reduced the activity of cytochrome P450 3A1 in liver tissue which was elevated due to flutamide treatment. Furthermore, sophorin treatment significantly decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) level. Immunohistochemical analysis for the expression of inflammatory proteins (iNOS and COX-2) in hepatic tissue was decreased after sophorin treatment against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity. Moreover, sophorin suppressed the infiltration of mast cells in liver tissue which further showed anti-inflammatory potential of sophorin. Our histological investigation further demonstrated sophorin's hepatoprotective function by restoring the typical histology of the liver. Based on the aforementioned information, we are able to come to the conclusion that sophorin supplementation might benefit wistar rats with flutamide-induced hepatic damage by reducing oxidative stress and hepatocellular inflammation.

The ameliorating effect of Rutin on hepatotoxicity and inflammation induced by the daily administration of vortioxetine in rats

BACKGROUND

Vortioxetine (VORTX) is a potent and selective type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is mainly prescribed for treating major depression along with mood disorders as the first drug of choice. Limited previous findings have indicated evidence of liver injury and hepatotoxicity associated with daily VORTX treatment. Rutin (RUT), which is known for its antioxidant properties, has demonstrated several beneficial health actions, including hepatoprotection. Therefore the current study aimed to evaluate and assess the ameliorative effect of RUT against the hepatotoxic actions of daily low and high-dose VORTX administration.

METHODS

The experimental design included six groups of rats, each divided equally. Control, rats exposed to RUT (25 mg/kg), rats exposed to VORTX (28 mg/kg), rats exposed to VORTX (28 mg/kg) + RUT (25 mg/kg), rats exposed to VORTX (80 mg/kg), and rats exposed to VORTX (80 mg/kg) + RUT (25 mg/kg). After 30 days from the daily exposure period, assessments were conducted for serum liver enzyme activities, hepatotoxicity biomarkers, liver antioxidant endogenous enzymes, DNA fragmentation, and histopathological studies of liver tissue.

RESULTS

Interestingly, the risk of liver damage and hepatotoxicity related to VORTX was attenuated by the daily co-administration of RUT. Significant improvements were observed among all detected liver functions, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), albumin, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione S-transferase (GST), total protein, acid phosphatase, N-Acetyl-/β-glucosaminidase (β-NAG), β-Galactosidase (β-Gal), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), caspase 3, and cytochrom-C along with histopathological studies, compared to the control and sole RUT group.

CONCLUSION

Thus, RUT can be considered a potential and effective complementary therapy in preventing hepatotoxicity and liver injury induced by the daily or prolonged administration of VORTX.

Protective Effects of Cereal Grain Extracts on Alcohol-Induced Hepatocyte Damage

This study investigated the protective effects of cereal grains on alcohol-induced hepatocyte damage. Cereal grains were extracted with methanol, and their radical scavenging properties and total phenolic contents were examined. Black rice extract exhibited the highest total polyphenol content and radical scavenging capacity. Treatment with sorghum extract increased the viability of cells exposed to alcohol by up to 81.6%. All cereal grain extracts decreased reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde production and glutathione depletion in HepG2 cells exposed to ethanol. In particular, black rice and sorghum extracts exhibited greater antioxidant effects than other cereal grains. Treatment with black rice extract increased the levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase of alcohol-exposed cells to control levels. Overall, black rice extract showed a greater protective effect compared with other cereal grains against alcohol exposure in HepG2 cells and could improve alcohol-induced liver problems.

Phenolic profile, acute and subacute oral toxicity of the aqueous extract from Moroccan Mentha longifolia L. aerial part in Swiss Albino mice model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mentha longifolia (L.) (Lamiaceae) is a native plant in Morocco, traditionally used in different countries to treat several disorders notably gastrointestinal illnesses, respiratory disorders, infectious diseases, inflammatory diseases, and menstrual problems. Robust scientific evidence has confirmed multiple pharmacological properties of M. longifolia including antihemolytic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, gastroprotective effect, and antispasmodic activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The current study aimed to determine the phytochemical profile and assess the toxic effect of an aqueous extract of the arial parts of M. longifolia in male and female Swiss albino mice during acute and subacute oral toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance Liquid Chromatography Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD) was used to provide qualitative and quantitative analyses of phenolic compounds of M. longifolia aqueous extract. In acute toxicity experiments, four distinct groups of mice (n = 5/group/sex) were administered Mentha longifolia aqueous extract at single oral dosages of 0.5; 1; 2; 4, and 8 g/kg BW given by gavage and intraperitoneal for up to 14 days. Regarding the subacute toxicity investigation, Swiss albino mice were given M. longifolia aqueous extract orally at dosages of 100; 500; and 1000 mg/kg BW daily for 28 days. Body weight is measured every 7 days and suggested biochemical and hematological parameters were quantified, at the finish of 28 days of daily administration, sections of the liver, kidney, and spleen were histologically evaluated for showing damage to organs.

RESULTS

The data of High-performance Liquid chromatography analysis revealed that M. longifolia aqueous extract was rich in interesting phytochemical compounds, mainly quercetin, and rutin, followed by a hydroxybenzoic acid-like syringic acid. Regarding the acute test in mice, no mortality or symptoms of toxicity were detected following oral administration with a single dose of M. longifolia aqueous extract at any dosage limit up to 4 g/kg, which was the no-observed side effect threshold (NOAEL). The mortality rate as well as acute toxicity of the M. longifolia aqueous extract delivered intraperitoneally, are increased progressively with increasing dosage. The non-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) for the intraperitoneal dosage was 1 g/kg BW, and the lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) was 2 g/kg BW, the estimated acute toxicity (LD50) of intraperitoneally given M. longifolia aqueous extract in mice was 4.800 g/kg BW. Concerning subacute examinations in mice, the M. longifolia aqueous extract did not induce substantial modifications in biochemical or hematological indicators, preserving a slight increase in creatinine and urea levels. At the end of the experiment, a histopathological examination of the kidneys, liver, and spleen revealed normal architecture, suggesting no morphological damage.

CONCLUSION

The data we obtained indicate that acute or subacute administration of Mentha longifolia aqueous extract is relatively non-toxic in male and female Swiss albino mice.

Rutin prevents pyroptosis and M1 microglia via Nrf2/Mac-1/caspase-1-mediated inflammasome axis to improve POCD

BACKGROUND

Neuroinflammation following peripheral surgery plays a key role in postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) development and there is no effective therapy to inflammation-mediated cognitive impairment. Recent studies showed that rutin, a natural flavonoid compound, conferred neuroprotection. However, the effects and mechanisms of rutin on cognition of surgical and aged mice and LPS-induced BV2 need deeper exploration.

METHODS

The effect of rutin in vivo and vitro were evaluated by Morris water maze test, HE stainin, Golgi-Cox staining, IF, IHC, RT-PCR, Flow Cytometer and Western blotting. In vivo, aged mice were treated with rutin and surgery. In vitro, rutin, Nrf2 knockdown, MAC-1 overexpression and VX765, a caspase-1 inhibitor, were administration on BV2 microglial cells.

RESULTS

Surgery led to compensatory increase in nuclear Nrf2 and rutin could further increase it. Neural damage was accompanied with high level in MAC-1, caspase-1-mediated pyroptosis and M1 microglia, while rutin recovered the process. Nrf2 inhibition abolished the effect of rutin with the increase of MAC-1, caspase-1-mediated pyroptosis and M1 microglia. Activation of MAC-1 abrogated protection of rutin by increase in pyroptosis and M1 microglia. Finally, we found that treatment with VX765 improved injury and increased M2 microglia against overexpression of MAC-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicated that rutin may be a potential therapy in POCD and exerted neural protection via Nrf2/ Mac-1/ caspase-1-mediated inflammasome axis to regulate pyroptosis and microglial polarization.

Clinical efficacy, pharmacodynamic components, and molecular mechanisms of antiviral granules in the treatment of influenza: A systematic review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Antiviral Granules (AG) are derived from the classical famous prescription, which is composed of 9 traditional Chinese medicines, namely Radix Isatidis (called Banlangen, BLG in Chinese), Forsythiae Fructus (called Lianqiao, LQ in Chinese), Gypsum fibrosum, Anemarrhenae Rhizoma (called Zhimu, ZM in Chinese), Phragmitis Rhizoma (called Lugen, LG in Chinese), Rehmanniae Radix (called Dihuang, DH in Chinese), Pogostemonis Herba (called Guanghuoxiang, GHX in Chinese), Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma (called Shichangpu, SCP in Chinese), and Curcumae Radix (called Yujin, YJ in Chinese), and has shown an excellent therapeutic effect in clinical treatment of influenza. However, there are few studies on the anti-influenza mechanism of AG, and the mechanism of action is still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose is to provide the latest information about the clinical efficacy, pharmacodynamic composition and mechanism of AG based on scientific literature, so as to enhance the utilization of AG in the treatment of influenza and related diseases, and promote the development and innovation of novel anti-influenza drugs targeting the influenza virus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Enter the data retrieval room, search for Antiviral Granules, as well as the scientific names, common names, and Chinese names of each Chinese medicine. Additionally, search for the relevant clinical applications, pharmacodynamic composition, pharmacological action, and molecular mechanism of both Antiviral Granules and single-ingredient medicines. Keywords includes terms such as "antiviral granules", "influenza", "Isatis indigotica Fort.", "Radix Isatidis", "Banlangeng", "pharmacology", "clinical application", "pharmacologic action", etc. and their combinations. Obtain results from the Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Sci Finder Scholar, CNKI and other resources.

RESULTS

AG is effective in the treatment of influenza and is often used in combination with other drugs to treat viral diseases. Its chemical composition is complex, including alkaloids, polysaccharides, volatile oils, steroid saponins, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids and other compounds. These compounds have a variety of pharmacological activities, which can interfere with the replication cycle of the influenza virus, regulate RIG-I-MAVS, JAK/STAT, TLRs/MyD88, NF-κB signaling pathways and related cytokines, regulate intestinal microorganisms, and protect both the lungs and extrapulmonary organs.

CONCLUSIONS

AG can overcome the limitations of traditional antiviral drug therapy, play a synergistic role in fighting influenza virus with the characteristics of multi-component, multi-pathway and multi-target therapy, and reverse the bodily function damage caused by influenza virus. AG may be a potential drug in the prevention and treatment of influenza and related diseases.

The hepato- and neuroprotective effect of gold Casuarina equisetifolia bark nano-extract against Chlorpyrifos-induced toxicity in rats

BACKGROUND

The bark of Casuarina equisetifolia contains several active phytoconstituents that are suitable for the biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs). These nanoparticles were subsequently evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing the toxicity induced by Chlorpyrifos (CPF) in rats.

RESULTS

Various hematological and biochemical measurements were conducted in this study. In addition, markers of oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions quantified in liver and brain tissues were evaluated. Histopathological examinations were performed on both liver and brain tissues. Furthermore, the native electrophoretic protein and isoenzyme patterns were analyzed, and the relative expression levels of apoptotic genes in these tissues were determined. The hematological and biochemical parameters were found to be severely altered in the group injected with CPF. However, the administration of Au-C. equisetifolia nano-extract normalized these levels in all treated groups. The antioxidant system markers showed a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in conjunction with elevated levels of inflammatory and fibrotic markers in both liver and brain tissues of the CPF-injected group. In comparison, the pre-treated group exhibited a reduction in these markers when treated with the nano-extract, as opposed to the CPF-injected group. Additionally, the nano-extract mitigated the severity of histopathological lesions induced by CPF in both liver and brain tissues, with a higher ameliorative effect observed in the pre-treated group. Electrophoretic assays conducted on liver and brain tissues revealed that the nano-extract prevented the qualitative changes induced by CPF in the pre-treated group. Furthermore, the molecular assay demonstrated a significant increase in the relative expression of apoptotic genes in the CPF-injected rats. Although the nano-extract ameliorated the relative expression of these genes compared to the CPF-injected group, it was unable to restore their values to normal levels.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that the nano-extract effectively reduced the toxicity induced by CPF in rats at hematological, biochemical, histopathological, physiological, and molecular levels, in the group pre-treated with the nano-extract.

The protective effect of forsythiaside A on 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-induced cholestatic liver injury in mice: Based on targeted metabolomics and molecular biology technology

Cholestasis is a disorder of bile secretion and excretion caused by a variety of etiologies. At present, there is a lack of functional foods or drugs that can be used for intervention. Forsythiaside A (FTA) is a natural phytochemical component isolated from the medicinal plant Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, which has a significant hepatoprotective effect. In this study, we investigated whether FTA could alleviate liver injury induced by cholestasis. In vitro, FTA reversed the decrease in viability of human intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cells, the decrease in antioxidant enzymes (SOD1, CAT and GSH-Px), and cell apoptosis induced by lithocholic acid. In vivo, FTA protected mice from 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-induced liver injury, abnormal serum biochemical indexes, abnormal bile duct hyperplasia, and inflammatory infiltration. Furthermore, FTA treatment alleviated liver fibrosis by inhibiting collagen deposition and HSC activation. The metabonomic results showed that DDC-induced bile acid disorders in the liver and serum were reversed after FTA treatment, which may benefit from the activation of the FXR/BSEP axis. In addition, FTA treatment increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes in the serum and liver. Meanwhile, FTA treatment inhibited ROS and MDA levels and cleaved caspase 3 protein expression, thereby reducing DDC-induced hepatic oxidative stress and apoptosis. Further studies showed that the antioxidant effects of FTA were dependent on the activation of the BRG1/NRF2/HO-1 axis. In a word, FTA has a significant hepatoprotective effect on cholestatic liver injury, and can be further developed as a functional food or drug to prevent and treat cholestatic liver injury.

Theaflavine inhibits hepatic stellate cell activation by modulating the PKA/LKB1/AMPK/GSK3β cascade and subsequently enhancing Nrf2 signaling

Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) constitutes a crucial etiological factor leading to liver fibrosis. Theaflavine (TF) is a characteristic bioactive compound in fermented tea. Here, we found that TF attenuated the activation of LX-2 HSCs induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). TF potentiated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related Factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling. Knockdown of Nrf2 abrogated TF-mediated resistance to TGF-β1. Liver kinase B1 (LKB1), AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) are upstream regulators of Nrf2. TF modulated the LKB1/AMPK/GSK3β axis. Inhibition of AMPK or knockdown of LKB1 crippled TF-mediated potentiation of Nrf2. Protein kinase A (PKA) catalyzes LKB1 phosphorylation. In LX-2 cells, TF increased the LKB1/PKA interaction without affecting their contents. Inhibition of PKA abolished TF-mediated potentiation of LKB1/Nrf2 and abrogated the inhibitory effects of TF on their activation. TF also enhanced direct binding between purified catalytic subunit α of PKA (PKA-Cα) and LKB1 proteins in vitro. Molecular docking indicated that TF showed binding activity with both LKB1 and PKA-Cα proteins. In mouse primary HSCs, TF elevated LKB1/PKA-Cα binding, boosted LKB1 phosphorylation, potentiated Nrf2 and suppressed their spontaneous activation. PKA inhibition or LKB1 knockdown eliminated TF-mediated induction of Nrf2 and suppression of HSC activation. Furthermore, TF considerably alleviated CCl4-induced mouse liver fibrosis. In mouse livers, TF increased the LKB1/PKA-Cα interaction, upregulated LKB1 phosphorylation and modulated its downstream AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 cascade. Our findings collectively indicated that TF suppresses HSC activation. Mechanistically, TF elevated the LKB1/PKA interaction in HSCs, which increased LKB1 phosphorylation and subsequently modulated the downstream AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 axis.

Laricitrin 3-Rutinoside from Ginkgo biloba Fruits Prevents Damage in TNF-α-Stimulated Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Human skin comprises the epidermis and dermis, which perform interactive functional activities with each other in order to maintain the skin's tensile strength. In particular, the dermal layer is crucial for skin protection. However, skin aging destroys collagen and elastin fibers, causing wrinkles, pigments, and sagging. Skin aging-related factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), promote the generation of intercellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). These are known to stimulate the hypersecretion of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), which degrades collagen and inhibits collagen synthesis. In this study, as part of our ongoing discovery of natural products, we investigated potential natural products derived from ginkgo fruit (Ginkgo biloba fruit) with protective effects against TNF-α-induced skin aging. Phytochemical investigation of the MeOH extract of G. biloba fruits, aided by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, led to the isolation of 14 compounds (1-14) from the n-butanol-soluble fraction. These were structurally determined to be: (E)-coniferin (1), syringin (2), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), vanillic acid 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), glucosyringic acid (5), (E)-ferulic acid 4-O-β-D-glucoside (6), (E)-sinapic acid 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (7), ginkgotoxin-5-glucoside (8), ginkgopanoside (9), (Z)-4-coumaric acid 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (10), (1'R,2'S,5'R,8'S,2'Z,4'E)-dihydrophaseic acid 3'-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (11), eucomic acid (12), rutin (13), and laricitrin 3-rutinoside (L3R) (14). Biological evaluation of the isolated compounds for their effects on intracellular ROS generation showed that, of these 14 compounds, L3R (14) inhibited TNF-α-stimulated ROS generation (p < 0.001 at 100 μM). Inhibition of ROS generation by L3R led to the suppression of MMP-1 secretion and protection against collagen degradation. The inhibitory effect of L3R was mediated by the inhibition of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. Furthermore, L3R diminished the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8). Based on these experimental results, L3R is a potential bioactive natural product that can be used to protect against skin damage, including aging, in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Action of crude ethanol extract of Hymenaea martiana leaf, gallic acid, and polypyrrole (PPy) against Aeromonas hydrophila

Pisciculture represents one of the industries with the fastest growth rates worldwide. However, it presents obstacles to its development, such as bacteriosis, which is conventionally treated with antibiotics. The indiscriminate and inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance, thus alternatives to the use of antibiotics have been researched. The study aimed to analyze the potential of crude ethanol extract (CEE) from Hymenaea martiana leaf, gallic acid (GA), and polypyrrole (PPy) against Aeromonas hydrophila. Tests were performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the compounds individually and in synergy (checkerboard) against A. hydrophila and in silico tests between the compounds evaluated. The CEE of H. martiana leaf and PPy were effective against A. hydrophila with MBC results of 3125 μg/mL for the CEE of H. martiana and 125 μg/mL for PPy. Evaluating the GA, a MIC and MBC of 125 μg/mL was obtained. In the interaction tests (checkerboard, using PPy/CEE and PPy/GA), there was a significant reduction in individual introductions. Thus, for the PPy/CEE tests, we had a reduction of MIC/MBC to 1.95 and 781.25 μg/mL, and for the synergy tests between PPy/GA to 7.8125 and 31.125 μg/mL, respectively. The synergy tests are encouraging, and it is possible to verify a decrease of up to 98% in the introduction of PPy, 75% in CEE for H. martiana and 75.1% for GA, when compared to their individual tests. The tests with GA are encouraging due to GA's effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent and high synergy with polypyrrole, both in vitro results and molecular docking experiments showed the actions at the same activation site in A. hydrophila. In vivo tests evaluating isolated components of CEE from H. martiana in synergy with PPy should be performed, to verify the quality of the interactions and the improvement of the immune responses of the animals. It was evidenced that gallic acid, a substance isolated from the extract, tends to have more promising results. This is relevant since the industry has been developing these compounds for different uses, thus providing easier access to the product. Thus, the present study indicates an efficient alternative in the use of bioactive compounds as substitutes for conventional antimicrobials.

Active ingredients screening and pharmacological mechanism research of curcumae rhizoma-sparganii rhizoma herb pair ameliorates liver fibrosis based on network pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Curcumae Rhizoma-Sparganii Rhizoma (CR-SR) is a classic herbal pair to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis in ancient China. However, the molecular mechanism is still unclear.

AIM OF STUDY

To screen out the anti-liver fibrosis active ingredients in CR-SR. Moreover, preliminary exploration the molecular mechanism of CR-SR to ameliorates liver fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, plant taxonomy has been confirmed in the "The Plant List" database (www.theplantlist.org). The chemical components of CR-SR were analysed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS). "Component-Target-Pathway-Disease" network of CR-SR components were built by network pharmacology. Then, the interaction between primary components and predicted protein targets based on network pharmacology were validated by molecular docking. The pharmacological actions of CR-SR were verified by blood biochemical indexes, histopathologic examination of CCL₄ induced rats' model. The core protein targets were verified by Western blot. The effects of screened active components by molecular autodocking were verified by HSC-T6 cell experiment.

RESULTS

The result shows that 57 chemical constituents in CR-SR herbal pair were identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, in which, 27 compounds were closely connected with liver fibrosis related protein targets. 55 protein targets screened out by "component-target-pathway-disease network" maybe the underlying targets for CR-SR to cure liver fibrosis. Moreover, the 55 protein targets are mainly related to RNA transcription, apoptosis, and signal transduction. The molecular autodocking predicted that ten components can bond well with PTGS2 and RELA protein targets. The blood biochemical indexes, histopathologic examination of CCL₄ induced rats experiment showed that CR-SR has well intervention effect of liver fibrosis. The Western blot analysis indicated that CR-SR could significantly inhibit RELA, PTGS2, IL-6, SRC, and AKT1 protein expression to exert the anti-fibrosis effect. The HSC-T6 cell experiment indicated that both formononetin (FNT) and curdione could significantly inhibit the activation of HSC and reduce the expression of PTGS2, and p-AKT1 which was accordance with the molecular autodocking results.

CONCLUSION

This study proved the molecular mechanism of CR-SR multi-component and multi-target anti-liver fibrosis effect through mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, and western blotting technology. The research provides a theoretical evidence for the development and utilization of CR-SR herbal pair.

Galium aparine L. protects against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The toxicity of acetaminophen (N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (APAP)) is the most frequent cause of drug-induced liver damage. Galium aparine L. (GA) is traditionally used to treat jaundice. We aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective potential of GA in the APAP-induced hepatic encephalopathy (HE) rat model. Qualitative phytochemical characterization of GA was performed by LC/Q-TOF/MS analysis. Wistar rats were pretreated with GA (250 and 500 mg/kg b.wt. per oral) for five days. On the 6th day, the rats were exposed to APAP (1500 mg/kg b.wt. oral gavage) and behavioral tests (open field and passive avoidance tests) were applied on the 7th and 8th days. The animals were killed, and biochemical and histopathological parameters were assessed in blood and hepatic specimens. GA pretreated rats exhibited a significant reduction in APAP-induced liver damage, evidenced by the reduction in liver necrosis and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin (BIL). GA demonstrated an anxiolytic effect, as seen in the acquisition trial and grooming behavior. The short-term memory performances of animals were not changed in all groups, suggesting that APAP intoxication did not affect hippocampal function. These results show that GA extract markedly exerts hepatoprotective activity, while its effect on hepatic encephalopathy was limited.

Plumbagin ameliorates bile duct ligation-induced cholestatic liver injury in rats

Plumbagin, a natural bicyclic naphthoquinone, has diverse pharmacological properties and biological benefits against a number of disorders, including liver disease. Though plumbagin's hepatoprotective potential attracts attention, currently no experimental evidence exists on its effectiveness against cholestatic liver injury. The present study investigated its hepatoprotection in the rat model of extrahepatic cholestasis using Bile Duct Ligation (BDL). We found that daily plumbagin supplementation protected the liver from cholestatic damage. Hepatoprotective actions of plumbagin were accompanied by reduction of Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad, High Mobility Group Box-1 (HMGB1)/Toll-Like Receptor-4 (TLR4), Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α), Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR), Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90), caveolin-1, NF-κB/AP-1, Dynamin Related Protein-1 (Drp1), malondialdehyde level, Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), p62/SQSTM1, and caspase 3 as well as increase of Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR), bile acid efflux transporters, glutathione, LC3-II, Beclin1, and nuclear NF-E2-Related Factor-2 (Nrf2) and Transcription Factor EB (TFEB). The activation of nuclear Nrf2 caused by plumbagin correlated well with the improvement in bile acid retention, liver histology, serum biochemical, ductular reaction, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, impaired autophagy, and fibrosis, involving interplay of multiple intracellular signaling pathways. Plumbagin is likely a candidate drug to protect the liver from cholestatic damages. Despite the promising findings from this study, translational implication of plumbagin on cholestatic liver injury warrants further investigation.

18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid Protects against Cholestatic Liver Injury in Bile Duct-Ligated Rats

18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid is a nutraceutical agent with promising hepatoprotective effects. Its protective mechanisms against cholestatic liver injury were further investigated in a rodent model of extrahepatic cholestasis caused by Bile Duct Ligation (BDL) in rats. The daily oral administration of 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid improved liver histology, serum biochemicals, ductular reaction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, impaired autophagy, and fibrosis. 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid alleviated the BDL-induced hepatic and systemic retention of bile acids, matrix-producing cell activation, hepatic collagen deposition, Transforming Growth Factor beta-1/Smad activation, malondialdehyde elevation, glutathione reduction, High Mobility Group Box-1/Toll-Like Receptor-4 activation, NF-κB activation, inflammatory cell infiltration/accumulation, Interleukin-1β expression, Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-1 activation, Endoplasmic Reticulum stress, impairment autophagy, and caspase 3 activation. Conversely, the protein expression of Sirt1, Farnesoid X Receptor, nuclear NF-E2-Related Factor-2, Transcription Factor EB, bile acid efflux transporters, and LC3-II, as well as the protein phosphorylation of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase, was promoted in 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid-treated BDL rats. The hepatoprotective effects of 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid in the present investigation correlated well with co-activation and possible interactions among Sirt, FXR, and Nrf2. The concurrent or concomitant activation of Sirt1, FXR, and Nrf2 not only restored the homeostatic regulation of bile acid metabolism, but also alleviated oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, impaired autophagy, and fibrosis.

Blueberry Juice Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis via Blocking the TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, fatal, and chronic lung disease, lacking a validated and effective therapy. Blueberry has demonstrated multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate whether blueberry juice (BBJ) could ameliorate IPF. Experiments in vitro revealed that BBJ could significantly reduce the expressions of TGF-β1 modulated fibrotic protein, which were involved in the cascade of fibrosis in NIH/3T3 cells and human pulmonary fibroblasts. In addition, for rat primary lung fibroblasts (RPLFs), BBJ promoted the cell apoptosis along with reducing the expressions of α-SMA, vimentin, and collagen I, while increasing the E-cadherin level. Furthermore, BBJ could reverse epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypic changes and inhibit cell migration, along with inducing the upregulation of E-cadherin in A549 cells. Compared with the vehicle group, BBJ treatment alleviated fibrotic pathological changes and collagen deposition in both bleomycin-induced prevention and treatment pulmonary fibrosis models. In fibrotic lung tissues, BBJ remarkably suppressed the expressions of collagen I, α-SMA, and vimentin and improved E-cadherin, which may be related to its inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and anti-inflammation efficacy. Taken together, these findings comprehensively proved that BBJ could effectively prevent and attenuate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis via suppressing EMT and the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

Effects of Polyphenols on Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Interconnected Pathways during Spinal Cord Injury

Despite the progression in targeting the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and spinal cord injury (SCI), there is a lack of effective treatments. Moreover, conventional therapies suffer from associated side effects and low efficacy, raising the need for finding potential alternative therapies. In this regard, a comprehensive review was done regarding revealing the main neurological dysregulated pathways and providing alternative therapeutic agents following SCI. From the mechanistic point, oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways are major upstream orchestras of cross-linked dysregulated pathways (e.g., apoptosis, autophagy, and extrinsic mechanisms) following SCI. It urges the need for developing multitarget therapies against SCI complications. Polyphenols, as plant-derived secondary metabolites, have the potential of being introduced as alternative therapeutic agents to pave the way for treating SCI. Such secondary metabolites presented modulatory effects on neuronal oxidative stress, neuroinflammatory, and extrinsic axonal dysregulated pathways in the onset and progression of SCI. In the present review, the potential role of phenolic compounds as critical phytochemicals has also been revealed in regulating upstream dysregulated oxidative stress/inflammatory signaling mediators and extrinsic mechanisms of axonal regeneration after SCI in preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, the coadministration of polyphenols and stem cells has shown a promising strategy for improving post-SCI complications.

Mechanochemical-Assisted Extraction and Hepatoprotective Activity Research of Flavonoids from Sea Buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) Pomaces

Pomaces of sea buckthorn berry were usually side-products during the processing of juice. Due to a lack of an economical and effective extraction method, it was typically recognized as waste. For the purpose of resource utilization, the mechanochemical-assisted extraction (MCAE) method was applied to develop an ecofriendly extraction method and product with better pharmacology activity. The parameters were investigated through response surface methodology (RSM) design experiments. The processing conditions were optimized as follows: amount of Na₂CO₃ 40%, ball-to-material rate 29:1 g/g, milling speed 410 rpm, milling time 24 min, extraction temperature 25 °C, extraction time 20 min and the solid-to-solution ratio 1:10 g/mL. Under these conditions, the yields of flavonoids from sea buckthorn pomaces were 26.82 ± 0.53 mg/g, which corresponds to an increase of 2 times in comparison with that extracted by the heat reflux extraction method. Meanwhile, the hepatoprotective activity of sea buckthorn pomaces extracts was studied by the liver injury induced by ip injection of tetracycline. Biochemical and histopathological studies showed that biomarkers in serum and liver of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice were significantly ameliorated when sea buckthorn flavonoids extracted by MCAE were used. Altogether, these results demonstrate that, as a green and efficient extraction, MCAE treatment could increase the extraction yield of sea buckthorn flavonoids, meanwhile it could exhibit significant activity of improving liver function. This research provided a new way to use pomaces of sea buckthorn as a functional food. It also has great value on the comprehensive utilization of nature’s resources.

Advances of natural activators for Nrf2 signaling pathway on cholestatic liver injury protection: a review

Cholestasis is a common manifestation of obstruction of bile flow in various liver diseases. If the bile acid accumulation is not treated in time, it will further lead to hepatocyte damage, liver fibrosis and ultimately to cirrhosis, which seriously affects human life. The pathogenesis of cholestatic liver injury is very complicated, mainly including oxidative stress and inflammation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important transcription factor responsible for upregulating expression of various genes with cytoprotective functions. Nrf2 activation has been proved to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction, modulate bile acid homeostasis, and alleviate fibrosis during cholestasis. Therefore, Nrf2 emerges as a potential therapeutic target for cholestatic liver injury. In recent years, natural products with various biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor and anti-fibrotic effects have received growing attention for being hepatoprotective agents. Natural products like asiatic acid, diosmin, rutin, and so forth have shown significant potential in activating Nrf2 pathway which can lead to attenuate cholestatic liver injury. Therefore, this paper emphasizes the effect of Nrf2 signaling pathway on alleviating cholestasis, and summarizes recent evidence about natural Nrf2 activators with hepatoprotective effect in various models of cholestatic liver injury, thus providing theoretical reference for the development of anti-cholestatic drug.

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

BACKGROUND

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

OBJECTIVE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Preclinical safety assessment of the crude extract from Sida rhombifolia L. aerial parts in experimental models of acute and repeated-dose 28 days toxicity in rats

Sida rhombifolia (Malvaceae) is popularly used as a treatment for several pathological conditions; however, there is a lack of studies that identify its compounds and that evaluate comprehensively the safety of its consumption. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determinate the phytochemical constitution of the crude extract of Sida rhombifolia (CESR), and its safety in models of acute and repeated doses (28 days) toxicity. The tested dose for the model of acute toxicity was 2000 mg/kg doses for the repeated dose model were 150, 300 e 600 mg/kg. Hematological, biochemical, histopathological and oxidative markers were investigated. HPLC-DAD-MS analysis evidenced the presence of caffeic acid, coumarin, and rutin. In the acute toxicity model the only altered parameters were tissue ROS, and AST and BUN in serum. As for the repeated dose experiment both hematological and biochemical markers remained within the values of reference for the species. Obtained results demonstrate that the CESR did not present significant toxic effects when administrated orally to male and female rats in acute and repeated doses.

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) Protects Hepatocytes against Alcohol-Induced Damage through Nrf2 Activation

This study aimed at evaluating the cytoprotective activity of jujube water extract (JWE) against alcohol-induced oxidative stress via the activation of the Nrf2 pathway in HepG2 cells. JWE had various phenolic compounds, and the vanillic acid content was the highest in the extract. To determine the cytoprotective effect of JWE against alcohol-induced damage, hepatocytes were treated with JWE and 3% ethanol. JWE (100 μg/mL) markedly increased cell viability by approximately 100% in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, JWE attenuated the production of malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, aspartate, and alanine aminotransferase and the depletion of glutathione. Moreover, JWE enhanced the expression of antioxidant defense enzymes including heme oxygenase-1, NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1, and γ-glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic against alcohol-induced oxidative damage in hepatocytes via the activation of Nrf2. Taken together, JWE possesses the protective effect against alcohol-induced oxidative injury in hepatocytes through the upregulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Therefore, jujube fruit might have the potential to improve alcohol-related liver problems.

Mechanism of Paeoniflorin in the Treatment of Bile Duct Ligation-Induced Cholestatic Liver Injury Using Integrated Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology

Paeoniflorin (PF) is the main active component of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., which is used in the treatment of severe cholestatic hepatitis. However, its biological mechanism in regulating bile acid metabolism and cholestatic liver injury has not been fully revealed. Our study aimed to reveal the mechanism of PF in the treatment of cholestatic liver injury in an in vivo metabolic environment using bioinformatics analysis. The serum of rats with bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced cholestatic liver injury treated with PF was analyzed by UHPLC-Q-TOF, and specific metabolites were screened using a metabolomics method. These specific metabolites were further analyzed by network pharmacology to identify the upstream signaling pathways and key protein targets. Finally, the key target proteins were verified by immunohistochemistry using cholestatic rat liver tissue. The serum ALT, AST, TBA, and TBIL levels, as well as the pathological state of the liver tissues, were significantly improved by PF. Twenty-five specific metabolites and 157 corresponding target proteins were screened for the treatment of cholestatic liver injury by PF. The “PF-target-metabolite” interaction network was constructed, and five protein targets (MAP2K1, MAPK1, ILBP, ABCB1, and LTA4H) that may regulate specific metabolites were obtained. The results of immunohistochemistry showed that PF improved the expression of these proteins. The integrated application of multiple bioinformatics methods revealed that PF plays a key role in the treatment of cholestatic liver injury by intervening in important targets related to bile acid metabolism and inflammation.

Pharmacokinetics and Protective Effects of Tartary Buckwheat Flour Extracts against Ethanol-Induced Liver Injury in Rats

The grains of Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) are traditionally consumed on a daily basis and are used in the preparation of diverse processed foods owing to the high concentration of rutin, an antioxidant compound. However, rutin is highly concentrated in hull and bran, but not in edible flour fractions. Rutin-enriched TB flour extracts (TBFEs) were obtained by hydrothermal treatment (autoclaving, boiling, or steaming) and their pharmacokinetic profiles were evaluated following a single-dose oral administration in rats. The antioxidant and protective activities of the extracts against alcoholic liver disease (ALD) were investigated after repetitive oral administration of TBFEs for 28 days prior to ethanol ingestion. The results demonstrated that rutin-enriched TBFEs had better oral absorption and was retained longer in the bloodstream than native TBFE or standard rutin. The activities of antioxidant enzymes and intracellular antioxidant levels increased in ALD rats following TBFE treatments, especially following the administration of rutin-enriched TBFEs. The antioxidant activity of TBFEs consequently contributed toward protecting the liver against injury caused by repetitive ethanol administration, as confirmed by analyzing relative liver weight, liver injury markers, lipid peroxidation, and calcium permeability. These results suggest the promising potential of TBFEs as antioxidant-enriched functional foods for human health.

Evaluation of biological activities and in vivo amelioration of CCl4 induced toxicity in lung and kidney with Abutilon pannosum (G.Forst.) Schltdl. in rat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Abutilon pannosum is used in Pakistan for bladder inflammation, diuretic, lung disorders, diabetes and in lowering pyrexia.

METHODS

Amount of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and HPLC analysis of APM for the presence of polyphenolics were carried out. Antioxidant activity was determined by using different in vitro antioxidant assays. Amelioration effects of APM (200 mg/kg body weight and 400 mg/kg body weight) against CCl₄ induced kidney and lung toxicity in rat was assessed by determining level of antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation products, cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-2), comet assay and histological analysis.

RESULTS

HPLC-DAD studies of APM indicated the presence of rutin (0.635 ± 0.011 μg/mg dry extract), gallic acid (1.07 ± 0.043 μg/mg dry extract) and catechin (0.246 ± 0.08 μg/mg dry extract) and considerable quantity of total phenolic (55.485 ± 0.85 mg GAE/g dry extract) and total flavonoid content (19.90 ± 0.58 mg Rutin/g dry extract). During in vitro antioxidant assays APM showed significant (p < 0.05) activity for iron chelation, reducing potential, inhibition of β-carotene oxidation while moderate potential for scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl, nitrite and phosphomolybdenum radical. Administration of CCl₄ to rat severely depleted the activity level of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration while appreciably increased the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), H₂O₂, nitrite, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-2 in lung and kidney tissues of rat. Comet length, % DNA in tail and tail moment significantly (p < 0.01) increased in lung and kidney cells of CCl₄ intoxicated rat. Further, injuries in lung and kidney tissues were recorded with CCl₄ induced toxicity in rat. The rats treated with APM along with CCl₄ exhibited an appreciable level of restoration of the altered parameters towards the control animals.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggested the protective potential of APM in CCl₄ intoxicated rats for kidney and lung injuries.

Natural products for the prevention and treatment of cholestasis: A review

Cholestasis is a common manifestation of decreased bile flow in various liver diseases. It results in fibrosis and even cirrhosis without proper treatment. It is believed that a wide range of factors, including transporter dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammatory damage, and immune disruption, can cause cholestasis. In recent years, natural products have drawn much attention for specific multiple-target activities in diseases. Many attempts have been made to investigate the anticholestatic effects of natural products with advanced technology. This review summarizes recent studies on the biological activities and mechanisms of recognized compounds for cholestasis treatment. Natural products, including various flavonoids, phenols, acids, quinones, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, and so on, function as comprehensive regulators via ameliorating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, restoring bile acid balance with hepatic transporters, and adjusting immune disruption. Moreover, in this progress, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, reactive oxygen species production, heme oxygenase-1, NF-κB, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase, and farnesoid X receptors are thought as main targets for the activity of natural products. Therefore, this review presents the detailed mechanisms that include multiple targets and diverse signalling pathways. Natural products are the valuable when seeking novel therapeutic agents to treat cholestatic liver diseases.

Gastrodin Ameliorates Acute Rejection via IRE1α/TRAF2/NF-κB in Rats Receiving Liver Allografts

Background

Liver transplantation (LT) is currently an effective treatment for end-stage liver disease, but the occurrence of acute rejection (AR) is still the main problem to be solved. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of gastrodin (GAS) on LT.

Methods

Rat transplant models were established and divided into SHAM, LT, GAS-L (50 mg/kg GAS), and GAS-H (100 mg/kg GAS) groups. The liver function, inflammatory factors, liver histopathology, survival of rats, number of M2-type macrophages, liver cell apoptosis, and pathway proteins were assayed at 7 days and 14 days after the operations.

Results

With increasing GAS concentrations, liver function, expression of proinflammatory factors in the liver, and expression of M2-type molecules in macrophages were significantly improved, and the survival time of rats was significantly prolonged (P < 0.05). All rats treated with low or high doses of GAS were judged to have nondeterministic acute rejection. Flow cytometry showed that liver cell apoptosis was decreased significantly in the GAS-L and GAS-H groups after GAS administration compared with apoptosis and differentiation in the LT group (P < 0.05). Expression levels of Caspase-3, Bad, and Bax proteins were decreased, and the expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 was increased in the GAS-L and GAS-H groups (P < 0.05). Mechanistically, the ERS-related IRE1α/TRAF2/NF-κB pathway was suppressed by GAS, and GAS acted mainly on intrahepatic macrophages to affect AR and reduce ROS production (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

GAS ameliorated AR by inhibiting the IRE1α/TRAF2/NF-κB pathway in LT.

Danshensu, a novel indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase1 inhibitor, exerts anti-hepatic fibrosis effects via inhibition of JAK2-STAT3 signaling

BACKGROUND

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), an important intracellular rate-limiting enzyme in the development of Hepatic fibrosis (HF), and has been proposed as a hallmark of HF. Danshensu (DSS) is a major bioactive component that isolated from a edible traditional Chinese medicinal herb Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Danshen), while, the anti-HF mode and mechanism of action of DSS have not been fully elucidated.

METHODS

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced rat HF model and TGF-β1-induced hepatic stellate cell (HSC) model were employed to assess the in vivo and in vitro anti-HF effects of DSS. HSC-T6 cells stably expressing IDO1, a constitutively active IDO1 mutant, was used to determine the role of JAK2-STAT3 signaling in the DSS's anti-HF effects.

RESULTS

We found that intragastric administration of DSS potently reduced fibrosis, inhibited IDO1 expression and STAT3 activity both in vitro and in vivo. Using molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis, DSS was identified as a novel IDO1 inhibitor. Mechanistic studies indicated that DSS inhibited JAK2-STAT3 signaling, it reduced IDO1 expression, STAT3 phosphorylation and STAT3 nuclear localization. More importantly, overexpression of IDO1 diminished DSS's anti-HF effects.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide a pharmacological justification for the clinical use of DSS in treating HF, and suggest that DSS has the potential to be developed as a modern alternative and/or complimentary agent for HF treatment and prevention.

Slit2 signaling contributes to cholestatic fibrosis in mice by activation of hepatic stellate cells

Liver Cholestasis is a widespread disease of broad etiologies and ultimately results in fibrosis, which is still lacking effective therapeutic strategies. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the key event of liver fibrosis. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of the Slit2 signaling in cholestasis-induced liver fibrosis. Our findings revealed that the serum levels and hepatic expression of Slit2 were significantly increased in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). Additionally, Slit2-Tg mice were much more vulnerable to BDL-induced liver injury and fibrosis compared to WT control. Slit2 up-regulation by Slit2 recombinant protein induced proliferation, and inhibited apoptosis of human HSCs cell line LX-2 via p38 and ERK signaling pathway, resulting in the activation of HSCs. In contrast, Slit2 down-regulation by siRNA silencing inhibit the activation of HSCs. In conclusion, Slit2 is involved in the activation of HSCs and liver fibrogenesis, highlighting Slit2 as a potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.

Role of Natural Phenolics in Hepatoprotection: A Mechanistic Review and Analysis of Regulatory Network of Associated Genes

The liver is not only involved in metabolism and detoxification, but also participate in innate immune function and thus exposed to frequent target Thus, they are the frequent target of physical injury. Interestingly, liver has the unique ability to regenerate and completely recoup from most acute, non-iterative situation. However, multiple conditions, including viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, long term alcohol abuse and chronic use of medications can cause persistent injury in which regenerative capacity eventually becomes dysfunctional resulting in hepatic scaring and cirrhosis. Despite the recent therapeutic advances and significant development of modern medicine, hepatic diseases remain a health problem worldwide. Thus, the search for the new therapeutic agents to treat liver disease is still in demand. Many synthetic drugs have been demonstrated to be strong radical scavengers, but they are also carcinogenic and cause liver damage. Present day various hepatic problems are encountered with number of synthetic and plant based drugs. Nexavar (sorafenib) is a chemotherapeutic medication used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma associated with several side effects. There are a few effective varieties of herbal preparation like Liv-52, silymarin and Stronger neomin phages (SNMC) against hepatic complications. Plants are the huge repository of bioactive secondary metabolites viz; phenol, flavonoid, alkaloid etc. In this review we will try to present exclusive study on phenolics with its mode of action mitigating liver associated complications. And also its future prospects as new drug lead.

Analysis of Flavonoids Bioactivity for Cholestatic Liver Disease: Systematic Literature Search and Experimental Approaches

Flavonoids are naturally occurring compounds that show health benefits on the liver. However, there is little investigation about identification and evaluation of new flavonoid-containing drugs for cholestatic liver disease, one of the most common liver illnesses. We aimed to a systematic search regarding efficacy of flavonoids for treatment of cholestatic liver disease, and then evaluate naringenin (NG) as representative flavonoid in an obstructive cholestasis model. We searched for information of experimental and clinical studies in four major databases without time and language limits. Intervention was defined as any flavonoid derivate compared with other flavonoid, placebo, or without comparator. In addition, we evaluated NG on a bile duct-ligated model in order to contribute evidence of its actions. Eleven experimental reports that support the efficacy of flavonoids in cholestatic liver disease were identified. However, there was no homogeneity in efficacy endpoints evaluated and methodology. On the other hand, NG showed beneficial effects by improving specific metabolic (cholesterol and lipoproteins) and liver damage (bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase) biomarkers. The review lacks homogeneous evidence about efficacy of flavonoids in experimental settings, and is susceptible to risk for bias. NG only showed improvements in specific disease biomarkers. More investigation is still needed to determine its potential for drug development.

Rutin Attenuates Vancomycin-Induced Nephrotoxicity by Ameliorating Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Inflammation in Rats

Nephrotoxicity is the major limiting factor for the clinical use of vancomycin (VCM) for treatment of serious infections caused by multiresistant Gram-positive bacteria. This study investigated the renal protective activity of rutin in a rat model of VCM-induced kidney injury in male Wistar rats. VCM administered intraperitoneally at 200 mg/kg twice daily for 7 successive days resulted in significant elevation of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, as well as urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase. Coadministration of VCM with oral rutin at 150 mg/kg significantly reduced these markers of kidney damage. Rutin also significantly attenuated VCM-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory cell infiltration, apoptosis, and decreased interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha levels (all P < 0.05 or 0.01) in kidneys. Renal recovery from VCM injury was achieved by rutin through increases in Nrf2 and HO-1 and a decrease in NF-κB expression. Our results demonstrated a protective effect of rutin on VCM-induced kidney injury through suppression of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and downregulation of the inflammatory response. This study highlights a role for oral rutin as an effective intervention to ameliorate nephrotoxicity in patients undergoing VCM therapy.

Protective effects of rutin on liver injury in type 2 diabetic db/db mice

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of rutin on the liver of type 2 diabetic mice and explore the correlation mechanism. The db/db mice, selected as the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) models, have random blood glucose (RBG) and glucose level after 2 h of oral glucose loading of more than 16.7 mmol/L. After administration of 120 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg rutin, to T2DM mice, RBG, oral glucose tolerance, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in serum, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in vivo and vitro of different groups were detected. The liver pathological changes were observed under light and electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS-2) and phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) on p85, Akt on Ser473, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) on Ser9, real-time quantitative PCR was used to detect IRS-2 mRNA expression. Moreover, dynamically observing the effect of rutin on the generation of AGEs in non-enzymatic protein glycosylated system, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) method was used to detect the effect of rutin on proliferation activity of HepG2 liver cells. The results showed that RBG and glucose levels of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) of mice in model group were significantly higher than that of normal group, which were significantly reduced after the rutin treatment. Rutin could reduce the ALT, AST activities and AGEs level in serum and potentiate the expression of IRS-2, P-PI3K (p85), P-Akt (Ser473), P-GSK-3β (Ser9) protein and IRS-2 mRNA in the liver tissue of db/db mice. Moreover, rutin could significantly alleviate the structure disorder of liver, reduce the degeneration and necrosis of liver cells and formation of collagen fibers of db/db mice. The results in vitro also showed that rutin could obviously inhibit the generation of AGEs, and promoted the proliferation activity of high glucose-stimulating HepG2 cells. In general, the protective effect of rutin on the liver of T2DM may be mediated by facilitating signal transduction and activated state of insulin IRS-2/PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signal pathway, promoting hepatocyte proliferation, reducing blood glucose level and generation of AGEs.

Detoxication mechanisms of Radix Tripterygium wilfordii via compatibility with Herba Lysimachia christinae in S180-bearing mice by involving Nrf2

The combined administration between Radix Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (LGT) and Herba Lysimachia christinae Hance (JQC) belongs to mutual detoxication compatibility of seven emotions in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory. However, until now, the compatibility detoxication mechanisms remain unknown. The present study was undertaken to observe detoxication mechanisms of LGT through compatibility with JQC in tumor-bearing mice by involving NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant defenses. In addition, influence of compatibility on antitumor activity was also investigated here. Our results demonstrated that compatibility with JQC administration significantly reversed LGT-elevated serum alanine/aspartate transaminase (ALT/AST) levels and alleviated hepatocytes’ swelling or degeneration damage, and at the ratio 2/1 (LGT/JQC) produced the strongest detoxication effect. Besides, compatibility with JQC administration reversed not only LGT-elevated hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) but also the LGT lowered GSH, glutathione-s transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and interleukin (IL)-10 levels. Furthermore, compatibility with JQC administration significantly up-regulated protein expression of Nrf2 and mRNA expression of it regulated downstream antioxidant genes such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1), and glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC). In addition, compatibility with JQC further decreased LGT-decreased tumor weight and at the ratio 2/1 (LGT/JQC) also exerted the strongest synergistic effect. Collectively, through compatibility with JQC exerted detoxication effect on LGT-induced hepatotoxicity and the mechanisms could be at least partly attributed to up-regulation of Nrf2 and its downstream signals, thereby enhancing antioxidant defenses, and inhibiting lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Additionally, at the ratio 2/1 (LGT/JQC) exerted the strongest effects on both detoxication and synergism.

Application of a computational model of natural deep eutectic solvents utilizing the COSMO-RS approach for screening of solvents with high solubility of rutin

The screening of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) to identify those with the ability to strongly solvate rutin was conducted using the COSMO-RS methodology. A NADES model was constructed that took into account the possible ionic and neutral forms of its constituents. The distributions of all forms were computed based on the equilibrium constants of neutralization reactions between amino and carboxylic acids. The proposed model was validated against the experimental solubilities of 15 NADES. A linear relationship between these data and the estimated activity coefficient values was found. The screening encompassed 126 different NADES. It was found that ten of them outperformed the best reference system. The most effective two-component solvent comprised proline combined with 2,3-diaminosuccinic acid, and the solubility of rutin in this solvent was found to be 130% greater than its solubility in the best reference system. The amino acids associated with the highest rutin solubilities were all cyclic, and the use of carboxylic acids with two carboxyl groups and a main chain consisting of two methylene groups with two amino substituents was observed to yield the best rutin solubilities. Because of the acidic properties of rutin, the presence of basic sites on the components of the NADES generally leads to enhanced solubility.

Neuroprotective mechanisms of rutin for spinal cord injury through anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation and inhibition of p38 mitogen activated protein kinase pathway

Rutin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-tumor and immune regulatory effects. However, the neuroprotective effects of rutin in spinal cord injury are unknown. The p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) pathway is the most important member of the MAPK family that controls inflammation. We assumed that the mechanism of rutin in the repair of spinal cord injury is associated with the inhibition of p38 MAPK pathway. Allen's method was used to establish a rat model of spinal cord injury. The rat model was intraperitoneally injected with rutin (30 mg/kg) for 3 days. After treatment with rutin, Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan locomotor function scores increased. Water content, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1 beta, and interleukin 6 levels, p38 MAPK protein expression and caspase-3 and -9 activities in T_8–9 spinal cord decreased. Oxidative stress related markers superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels increased in peripheral blood. Rutin exerts neuroprotective effect through anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis and inhibition of p38 MAPK pathway.

Treadmill exercise alleviated prenatal buprenorphine exposure-induced depression in rats

Mounting evidence suggests that physical exercise shows health benefits in a range of diseases, including psychiatric disorders. Perinatal opioid exposure produces neurobehavioral abnormality, which includes depression symptoms, in patients and their offspring following chronic use of buprenorphine, a mixed agonist/antagonist with a high affinity to opioid receptors, for pain control. Previously, we demonstrated that prenatal buprenorphine exposure in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats starting from gestation day 7 and lasting for 14 days caused the development of depression-like phenotypes in pups at postnatal day 21. Using the same prenatal buprenorphine exposure model, we further demonstrated that a 4-week course of moderate treadmill exercise conducted on pups starting from postnatal day 22 improved depression-like neurobehaviors. Prenatal buprenorphine exposure-induced neurobehavioral changes were accompanied by reductions of neuronal survival, neural stem cell-associated genes, plasma level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and serotonin, phosphorylated tropomyosin-related kinase receptor type B (TrkB), phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), PKA activity, phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and CREB DNA binding activity, as well as elevation of repressor element-1 silencing transcription factor (REST), oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Those changes in parameters of plasma and brain were improved by treadmill exercise. In conclusion, the findings of the current study suggest that a non-pharmacological option, i.e., moderate treadmill exercise, alleviated the development of depression-like neurobehaviors by resolving the oxidative and inflammatory burden as well as by enhancing neurochemical and neuroendocrine signaling.

Hepatoprotective activities of rosmarinic acid against extrahepatic cholestasis in rats

Though rosmarinic acid possesses nutritional, pharmaceutical, and toxic properties and shows therapeutic potential on liver diseases, its therapeutic effects against cholestatic liver diseases have not been proven. Using an extrahepatic cholestasis rat model by bile-duct ligation (BDL), daily oral administration of rosmarinic acid showed improvement effects on liver histology, serum biochemicals, ductular reaction, oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Rosmarinic acid alleviated BDL-induced transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) production and hepatic collagen deposition, and the anti-fibrotic effects were accompanied by reductions in matrix-producing cells and Smad2/3. BDL rats showed increased hepatic NF-κB/AP-1 activities, inflammatory cell infiltration/accumulation, and cytokine production, and these signs of hepatic inflammation were ameliorated by rosmarinic acid. Mechanistic study revealed an inhibitory effect of rosmarinic acid on the axis of the high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1)/toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) in BDL rats. Results of cultured hepatic stellate cells further showed the impacts of rosmarinic acid which attenuated TGF-β1-induced stellate cell mitogenic and fibrogenic activation. Our findings support the concept that rosmarinic acid could serve as a hepatoprotective agent, and dietary rosmarinic acid supplementation may be beneficial in terms of improving cholestasis-related liver injury via mechanisms involving resolution of oxidative burden and down-regulation of HMGB1/TLR4, NF-κB, AP-1, and TGF-β1/Smad signaling.

The emerging role of AMP-activated protein kinase in cholestatic liver diseases

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), recognized as an energy sensor with three heterotrimeric subunits (α, β and γ), not only maintains basal intracellular adenosine triphosphate levels but also regulates energy-intensive pathological responses, such as neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases, through multiple signaling pathways. Recent studies open a new direction for AMPK research and demonstrate that AMPK is a critical player in the pathogenesis of cholestatic liver injury and plays paradoxical roles in the regulation of different pathological processes, including the disruption of bile acid homeostasis and the regulation of hepatic polarity, inflammation and fibrosis. In the present review, we summarize recent findings that implicate AMPK-mediated signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of cholestatic liver injury. These findings provide novel insight regarding the potential use of AMPK as a therapeutic target for the treatment of cholestatic liver injury.

AMPK: a novel target for treating hepatic fibrosis

Fibrosis is a common process of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation following inflammatory injury. Fibrosis is involved in the pathogenesis of almost all liver diseases for which there is no effective treatment. 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a cellular energy sensor that can ameliorate the process of hepatic fibrogenesis. Given the existing evidence, we first introduce the basic background of AMPK and hepatic fibrosis and the actions of AMPK in hepatic fibrosis. Second, we discuss the three phases of hepatic fibrosis and potential drugs that target AMPK. Third, we analyze possible anti-fibrosis mechanisms and other benefits of AMPK on the liver. Finally, we summarize and briefly explain the current objections to targeting AMPK. This review may aid clinical and basic research on AMPK, which may be a novel drug candidate for hepatic fibrosis.