Antioxidant and protective effect of inulin and catechin grafted inulin against CCl4-induced liver injury

Therapeutic Role of Probiotics Against Environmental-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Mechanisms, Clinical Perspectives, Limitations, and Future

Hepatotoxicity is one of the biggest health challenges, particularly in the context of liver diseases, often aggravated by gut microbiota dysbiosis. The gut-liver axis has been regarded as a key idea in liver health. It indicates that changes in gut flora caused by various hepatotoxicants, including alcoholism, acetaminophen, carbon tetrachloride, and thioacetamide, can affect the balance of the gut's microflora, which may lead to increased dysbiosis and intestinal permeability. As a result, bacterial endotoxins would eventually enter the bloodstream and liver, causing hepatotoxicity and inducing inflammatory reactions. Many treatments, including liver transplantation and modern drugs, can be used to address these issues. However, because of the many side effects of these approaches, scientists and medical experts are still hoping for a therapeutic approach with fewer side effects and more positive results. Thus, probiotics have become well-known as an adjunctive strategy for managing, preventing, or reducing hepatotoxicity in treating liver injury. By altering the gut microbiota, probiotics offer a secure, non-invasive, and economical way to improve liver health in the treatment of hepatotoxicity. Through various mechanisms such as regulation of gut microbiota, reduction of pathogenic overgrowth, suppression of inflammatory mediators, modification of hepatic lipid metabolism, improvement in the performance of the epithelial barrier of the gut, antioxidative effects, and modulation of mucosal immunity, probiotics play their role in the treatment and prevention of hepatotoxicity. This review highlights the mechanistic effects of probiotics in environmental toxicants-induced hepatotoxicity and current findings on this therapeutic approach's experimental and clinical trials.

Liver-Targeted Nanoparticles Loaded with Cannabidiol Based on Redox Response for Effective Alleviation of Acute Liver Injury

The purpose of this work was to construct liver-targeted nanoparticles based on the redox response to effectively deliver cannabidiol (CBD) for the prevention of acute liver injury (ALI). CBD-loaded nanoparticles (CBD NPs) with a particle size of 126.5 ± 1.56 nm were prepared using the polymer DA-PP-LA obtained by grafting pullulan polysaccharide with deoxycholic acid (DA) and α-lipoic acid (α-LA). CBD NPs showed typical redox-response release behavior. Interestingly, CBD NPs exhibited admirable liver targeting ability, significantly accumulated in the liver, and effectively promoted the internalization of CBD in liver cells, thus effectively reducing the H2O2-induced oxidative damage of HepG2 cells and avoiding apoptosis. More importantly, CBD NPs effectively prevented CCl4-induced ALI by protecting liver function, ameliorating oxidative stress levels, inhibiting the production of inflammatory factors, and protecting the liver from histological damage. This study provides a promising strategy for achieving targeted delivery of CBD NPs in the liver, thereby effectively preventing ALI.

The impact of high-fat diet consumption and inulin fiber supplementation on anxiety-related behaviors and liver oxidative status in female Wistar rats

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a worldwide public health problem associated with cognitive and mental health problems in both humans and rats. Studies assessing the effect of fiber supplementation on behavioral deficits and oxidative stress caused by high-fat diet (HFD) consumption in female rats are still scarce. We hypothesized that HFD consumption would lead to anxiety-related behavior and hepatic oxidative stress and that inulin would protect against these changes. We analyzed the impact of HFD-induced obesity combined with fiber supplementation (inulin) on anxiety-related defensive behavior and hepatic oxidative stress.

RESULTS

Female rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD; 45%) for nine weeks to induce obesity. The administration of inulin was found to decrease the adiposity index in both the control and obese groups. The consumption of a HFD combined with inulin supplementation resulted in a reduction in both CAT activity and carbonylated protein levels, leading to a shift in the hepatic redox balance. Interestingly, the behavioral data were conflicting. Specifically, animals that consumed a high-fat diet and received inulin showed signs of impaired learning and memory caused by obesity. The HFD did not impact anxiety-related behaviors in the female rats. However, inulin appears to have an anxiolytic effect, in the ETM, when associated with the HFD. On the other hand, inulin appears to have affected the locomotor activity in the HFD in both open field and light-dark box.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that consumption of a HFD induced obesity in female rats, similar to males. However, HFD consumption did not cause a consistent increase in anxiety-related behaviors in female Wistar rats. Treatment with inulin at the dosage used did not exert consistent changes on the behavior of the animals, but attenuated the abdominal WAT expansion and the hepatic redox imbalance elicited by high-fat diet-induced obesity.

Bioactive Compounds Formulated in Phytosomes Administered as Complementary Therapy for Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders (MDs), including dyslipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity and cardiovascular diseases are a significant threat to human health, despite the many therapies developed for their treatment. Different classes of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and triterpenes have shown therapeutic potential in ameliorating various disorders. Most of these compounds present low bioavailability when administered orally, being rapidly metabolized in the digestive tract and liver which makes their metabolites less effective. Moreover, some of the bioactive compounds cannot fully exert their beneficial properties due to the low solubility and complex chemical structure which impede the passive diffusion through the intestinal cell membranes. To overcome these limitations, an innovative delivery system of phytosomes was developed. This review aims to highlight the scientific evidence proving the enhanced therapeutic benefits of the bioactive compounds formulated in phytosomes compared to the free compounds. The existing knowledge concerning the phytosomes' preparation, their characterization and bioavailability as well as the commercially available phytosomes with therapeutic potential to alleviate MDs are concisely depicted. This review brings arguments to encourage the use of phytosome formulation to diminish risk factors inducing MDs, or to treat the already installed diseases as complementary therapy to allopathic medication.

Hepatocytes-derived Prdx1 regulates macrophage phenotypes via TLR4 activation in acute liver injury

Acute liver injury (ALI) is a significant causative factor for multiple hepatic diseases. The excessive inflammatory response triggers proinflammatory immune cells recruitment, infiltration and differentiation, further contributing to inflammatory injuries in liver. As a proinflammatory factor, circulating Peroxiredoxin 1 (Prdx1) is elevated in ALI patients and mice. In this study, through carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and cecal puncture and ligation (CLP)-induced liver injury mice model, we found hepatocytes-derived Prdx1 expression was increased in ALI. After AAV8-Prdx1-mediated Prdx1 knockdown, CCl4 and CLP-induced ALI was alleviated, along with the reduced proinflammatory cytokines, suppressed myeloid cells recruitment, decreased proportions of hepatic macrophages and neutrophils, restrained proinflammatory macrophage differentiation and infiltration. Mechanistically, hepatocyte-derived Prdx1 regulated macrophages through paracrine activation of the TLR4 signal. Our data support the immune and inflammatory regulatory role of Prdx1 in ALI pathological process to suggest its potential therapeutic application and clinical value.

Inulin Supplementation Modulates the Hepatic Transcriptome, Metabolome, and Ferritin Content in Ovariectomized Rats

SCOPE

Liver is an important metabolic organ regulating whole-body homeostasis. This study aims to investigate how prebiotic-induced changes in the metabolic activity of the gut microbiome (GM) and dietary calcium depletion modulates the hepatic metabolome and transcriptome.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The serum metabolome, liver metabolome, and transcriptome are determined on samples from ovariectomized (OVX) rats fed a control diet (Control, n = 7), a control diet supplemented with 5% w/w inulin (Inulin, n = 7), or a calcium-deficient diet (CaDef, n = 7). Inulin fortification is associated with higher serum concentrations of acetate, 3-hydroxybutyrate, and reduced concentration of dimethyl sulfone, revealing that changes in the metabolic activity of the GM are reflected in circulating metabolites. Metabolomics also reveal that the inulin-fortified diet results in lower concentrations of hepatic glutamate, serine, and hypoxanthine while transcriptomics reveal accompanying effects on the hepatic expression of ferric iron binding-related genes. Inulin fortification also induces effects on the hepatic expression of genes involved in olfactory transduction, suggesting that prebiotics regulate liver function through yet unidentified mechanisms involving olfactory receptors.

CONCLUSION

Inulin ingestion impacts hepatic gene expression and is associated with an upregulation of ferritin synthesis-related genes and liver ferritin content.

Correlation between SDF-1α, CD34 positive hematopoietic stem cells and CXCR4 expression with liver fibrosis in CCl4 rat model

BACKGROUND

One of the most frequent disorders is liver fibrosis. An improved understanding of the different events during the process of liver fibrosis & its reversibility could be helpful in its staging and in finding potential therapeutic agents.

AIM

The goal of this research was to evaluate the relationship among CD34 + HPSCs, SDF-1α, and CXCR4 receptor expression with the percentage of the area of hepatic fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were separated into the control group, liver injury group & spontaneous reversion group. The liver injury was induced by using 2 ml/kg CCl4 twice a week. Flow cytometric examination of CD34 + cells in the blood & liver was performed. Bone marrow & liver samples were taken for evaluation of the SDF-1α mRNA by PCR. Liver specimens were stained for histopathological and CXCR4 immuno-expression evaluation.

RESULTS

In the liver injury group, the hepatic enzymes, fibrosis area percentage, CXCR4 receptor expression in the liver, CD34 + cells in the blood and bone marrow & the level SDF-1α in the liver and its concentration gradient were statistically significantly elevated with the progression of the liver fibrosis. On the contrary, SDF-1α in the bone marrow was statistically significantly reduced with the development of liver fibrosis. During the spontaneous reversion group, all the studied parameters apart from SDF-1α in the bone marrow were statistically substantially decreased compared with the liver injury group. We found a statistically substantial positive correlation between fibrosis area and all of the following: liver enzymes, CXCR4 receptor expression in the liver, CD34 + cells in the blood and liver, and SDF- 1α in the liver and its concentration gradient. In conclusion, in CCl4 rat model, the fibrosis area is significantly correlated with many parameters in the blood, bone marrow, and liver, which can be used during the process of follow-up during the therapeutic interventions.

Acacia sieberiana (Fabaceae) attenuates paracetamol and Bile Duct Ligation-Induced hepatotoxicity via modulation of biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers

Background: The plant Acacia sieberiana (Fabaceae) is traditionally used to manage hepatitis. This research work aims to investigate the hepatoprotective effectiveness of root bark extract of Acacia sieberiana (ASE) against paracetamol (PCM) and bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced hepatotoxicity. The phytochemical and median lethal dose (LD50) investigations were conducted. The rats were pre-treated with the ASE (250, 750, and 1,500 mg/kg) once daily via oral route for 7 consecutive days. On the 8th day, liver injury was initiated by PCM administration (2 g/kg). Similarly, in the BDL-induced liver injury, the animals were administered ASE (125, 250, and 380 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 7 consecutive days. After 24 h, blood samples and hepatic tissues were obtained for biochemical and histopathological investigations. Results: Phytocomponents determination revealed glycosides, triterpenes, glycosides, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and alkaloids. The oral and intraperitoneal LD50 values of the ASE were >5,000 and 1,300 mg/kg, respectively. The ASE efficiently (p < 0.05) decreased the alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels and elevated the albumin and total protein (TP) levels. The direct bilirubin effectively (p < 0.05) decreased at 750 mg/kg. Besides, the extract efficiently elevated the glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in relation to the PCM hepatotoxic group. Also, the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was reduced by the ASE. Meanwhile, in the BDL-induced liver injury, the ASE remarkably (p < 0.05) declined the AST, ALP, bilirubin,and MDA. Besides, there was effective (p < 0.05) elevation in SOD, GPx and CAT in the ASE-treated groups. The morphology of liver tissue was preserved at 125 and 250 mg/kg ASE groups from BDL-induced necrosis and vascular congestion. Conclusion: The study shows that the ASE has hepatoprotective actions against liver damage by possible modulation of biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers.

Cucumis melo var. momordica as a potent antidiabetic, antioxidant and possible anticovid alternative: Investigation through experimental and computational methods

Diabetes mellitus is a typical life threatening of disease, which generate due to the dysfunction of β cells of pancreas. In 2014, WHO stated that 422 million people were infected with DM. The current pattern of management of diabetes included synthetic or plant based oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin but drug resentence is become a very big issues in antidiabetic therapy. Thus, it's very earnest to discover now medication for this disease. Now the days, it is well acknowledged that diabetic patients are more prone towards covid and related complications. Thus, medical practitioners reformed the methodology of prescribing medication for covid infected antidiabetic therapy and encouraging the medication contains dual pharmacological properties. It is also well know that polyphenols specifically hold a significant role in oxidative stress and reduced the severity of many inflammatory diseases. Cucumis melo has rich history as ethano-pharmacological use in Indian subcontinent. The fruit and seed is well known for the treatment of various diseases due to the presence of phenolics. Therefore, in this study, the combined mixture of flower and seeds were used for the extraction of polyphenolic rich extract and tested for antidiabetic activity through the antioxidant and in vivo experiments. The antioxidant potential measurement exhibited that the selected plant  has the significant competence to down-regulate oxidative stress (DPPH scavenging IC 50 at 60.7 ±1.05 µg/mL, ABTS IC 50 at 62.15 ± 0.50 µg/mL). Furthermore, the major polyphenolic phyto-compounds derived from the Cucumis melo were used for in silico anticovid activity, docking, and complementarity studies. The anticovid activity prognosis reflected that selected phyto-compounds amentoflavone and vanillic acid have optimal possibility to interact with 3C-like protease and through this moderate anticovid activity can be exhibit. The docking experiments established that the selected compounds have propensity to interact with protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase β-glucuronidase receptor. In vivo experiments showed that 500 mg/kg, Cucumis melo ominously amplified body weight, plasma insulin, high-density lipoprotein levels, and biochemical markers. Furthermore, extract significantly downregulate the blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein.

The roles of catechins in regulation of systemic inflammation

Catechins are a phytochemical present in plants such as tea leaves, beans, black grapes, cherries, and cacao, and have various physiological activities. It is reported that catechins have a health improvement effect and ameliorating effect against various diseases. In addition, antioxidant activity, liver damage prevention, cholesterol lowering effect, and anti-obesity activity were confirmed through in vivo animal and clinical studies. Although most diseases are reported as ones mediating various inflammations, the mechanism for improving inflammation remains unclear. Therefore, the current review article evaluates the physiological activity and various pharmacological actions of catechins and conclude by confirming an improvement effect on the inflammatory response.

Facile synthesis, characterization, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial activity of carboxymethyl inulin salt derivatives

A series of novel carboxymethyl inulin derivatives bearing thiosemicarbazide salts, aminoguanidine salts, and aniline salts were prepared via a facile method and employed to evaluate in vitro antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity. Their structures were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The characterization results confirmed the successful synthesis of carboxymethyl inulin salt derivatives. The in vitro antioxidant activity evaluation results presented a significant improved superoxide radical scavenging ability, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, and reducing ability of carboxymethyl inulin salt derivatives as compared to inulin and carboxymethyl inulin. In particular, the series of carboxymethyl inulin derivatives containing thiosemicarbazide salts and aminoguanidine salts showed remarkable free radical scavenging ability and reducing ability. Moreover, the carboxymethyl inulin derivatives containing thiosemicarbazide salts and aniline salts displayed potential antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The cytotoxicity assay was also carried out on L929 cells by CCK-8 method, and all samples showed weak cytotoxicity. Furthermore, hemolysis results showed no hemolytic activity of most prepared inulin derivatives. In summary, the inulin derivatives containing thiosemicarbazide salts exhibited outstanding antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility, and the all-inclusive properties highlighted their potential use in food and medical applications.

Hepatoprotective Effects of (-) Epicatechin in CCl4-Induced Toxicity Model Are Mediated via Modulation of Oxidative Stress Markers in Rats

Objective

(−) Epicatechin (EP) is a naturally occurring antioxidant flavonoid found in some green plants. The current study was designed to evaluate the potential role of antioxidant mechanisms in the hepatoprotective properties of EP using the carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced acute liver injury model.

Materials and Methods

Rats (n = 7 per group) were divided into five groups including control group, (−) epicatechin group (20 mg·kg⁻¹ body weight), CCl₄ group (1 mL⁻¹ body weight), CCl₄-EP treatment group, and CCl₄-silymarin (SILY) group. The levels of enzymes including hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) were analyzed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Histological studies were performed on all groups to assess the regenerative effects of test sample and compare it with the control group.

Results

Test compound EP and standard drug silymarin (SILY) considerably reduced liver function enzyme levels in the blood, which were raised by CCl₄ administration, and increased serum albumin and total protein (TP) concentrations. The hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) level was considerably declined, whereas glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) levels were upregulated in the EC-treated groups. The hepatoprotective results of the study were further confirmed via the histological assessments, which indicated a regeneration of the damaged hepatic tissue in treated rats.

Conclusions

The results of this study revealed a significant protective efficacy of EP against CCl₄-induced liver injury, which was potentially mediated via upregulation of antioxidant enzymes and direct scavenging effects of the compound against free radicals.

Grape seed extract ameliorated Ehrlich solid tumor-induced hepatic tissue and DNA damage with reduction of PCNA and P53 protein expression in mice

This study evaluated the ameliorative potential of grape seed extract (GSE) against Ehrlich solid tumor (EST)-induced hepatic tissue alterations in mice. The control group was infused with physiological saline. The second group received GSE (50 mg/kg day by day orally) for 2 weeks. The third group was subcutaneously injected with 2.5 million of EST cells. The fourth group was injected with EST cells and treated with GSE extract simultaneously. The fifth group was injected with EST cells and kept for 2 weeks until the appearance of a solid tumor, then treated with GSE for 2 weeks. The phytochemical analysis of GSE revealed the presence of total phenols (17.442 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid (6.687 mg CE/g) with antioxidant activity of 81.506 mg TE/g DPPH. The Ehrlich solid tumor significantly raised the activities of ALT, AST, and ALP; the level of alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in serum; and the protein expressions of hepatic proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and tumor suppressor protein (P53), as well as induced DNA damage and pathological alterations in liver tissue. However, it significantly reduced serum albumin and total protein levels. In contrast, the co- or post-treatment of EST-bearing mice with GSE reduced the activities of ALT, AST, and ALP; the level AFP in serum; and hepatic P53 and PCNA protein expressions. In addition, it reduced EST-induced hepatic DNA damage and pathological alterations, while it increased serum albumin and total protein levels. This study suggested that GSE is a potent hepatoprotective agent and both co- and post-treatment of EST-bearing mice with GSE almost had the same effects.

Synthesis and antioxidant activity of the inulin derivative bearing 1,2,3-triazole and diphenyl phosphate

In this paper, the inulin derivative (3) bearing 1,2,3-triazole and diphenyl phosphate was successfully synthesized by CuAAC Click chemistry. Detailed structural characterization was determined using FTIR spectroscopy, ¹H NMR spectroscopy, ¹³C NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The antioxidant activities against hydroxyl radicals, superoxide radicals, and DPPH radicals were estimated in vitro respectively. The results showed that the antioxidant activity of the inulin derivative (3) was significantly enhanced compared with inulin. The inulin derivative (3) exhibited stronger radical scavenging abilities, especially against hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals. The scavenging values of the inulin derivative (3) were 98.2% and 95.4% at 1.6 mg/mL against hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals respectively. Besides, the scavenging value of the inulin derivative (3) increased by about 40% to scavenge DPPH radicals at 1.6 mg/mL than inulin. The results showed that the inulin derivative (3) bearing 1,2,3-triazole and diphenyl phosphate exhibited tremendously enhanced antioxidant activity compared with inulin. The synthetic strategy might provide an effective way to prepare novel inulin antioxidant biomaterials.

Phytochemical add-on therapy to DMARDs therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: In vitro and in vivo bases, clinical evidence and future trends

The use of biologically active compounds derived from plants i.e. phytochemicals, have been known for ages for their pharmacological activities in the treatment of autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Besides enormous scientific evidence, the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals is often undervalued. The treatment in RA involves the use of synthetic and biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). However, the long-term treatment in RA is associated with the risk of gastrointestinal, liver, pulmonary and renal toxicities and serious infections including latent tuberculosis, pneumococcus influenza, herpes zoster and hepatitis. These adverse effects sometimes lead to discontinuation of the therapy. A relatively new vision based on the combination of DMARDs with phytochemicals exhibiting anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective and nephroprotective properties for the treatment of RA has achieved substantial importance in the last decade. From this perspective, the present review focuses on the combination of DMARDs (primarily MTX) with phytochemicals that have shown synergistic therapeutic effects while decreasing the toxic repercussions of current RA therapy. The review covers recent evidences of such combination studies that have shown promising results both in experimental arthritic models and clinical arthritis. Few of the combinations including resveratrol, sinomenine, coenzyme Q10 exhibited considerable interest because of their efficacy as an adjuvant to the MTX/standard DMARDs therapy in clinical trials. Besides giving an overview of such combination studies the review also critically discusses the limitations with the use of phytochemicals (e.g. solubility, permeability and bioavailability) compromising their clinical application. Additionally, it stresses upon the need of novel delivery systems and pharmaceutical technologies to increase the therapeutic efficacy of the combination therapy. Overall, the review unveils the potential of phytochemicals in combination with DMARDs with increased tolerability and superior efficacy in further refining the future of the RA therapy.

Modification of carboxymethyl inulin with heterocyclic compounds: Synthesis, characterization, antioxidant and antifungal activities

A series of novel inulin derivatives were designed and synthesized by the introduction of amino heterocyclic moieties onto carboxymethyl inulin with the aid of 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride and N-hydroxysuccinimide. The target products were prepared via three - step chemical synthesis, and structures were identified by FTIR and ¹H NMR spectroscopy. Antioxidant activities of inulin derivatives including DPPH - radical scavenging assay, superoxide - radical scavenging assay, hydroxyl - radical scavenging assay, and reducing power were estimated. Meanwhile, their antifungal activities, including Colletotrichum lagenarium and Botrytis cinerea, were also explored by hyphal measurement. In particular, inulin derivatives bearing heterocyclic moieties exhibited a remarkable improvement over inulin on antioxidant and antifungal activities, and their bioactivities decreased roughly in the order of 2ATCMI > 4APCMI > 3APCMI > 2APCMI > 3ATCMI > CMI > inulin. Furthermore, the cytotoxicities of inulin derivatives against L929 cells were evaluated by CCK-8 in vitro, and all samples showed weak cytotoxicities. In a nutshell, the paper provides a practical approach to synthesize novel inulin derivatives with dramatically enhanced bioactivity and good biocompatibility. The product described in paper might serve as a new leading structure for further design of antioxidants or antifungal agents in biomedicine, cosmetics, and other fields.

The synergistic and antagonistic antioxidant interactions of dietary phytochemical combinations

The frequent intake of whole foods and dietary food variety is recommended due to their health benefits, such as prevention of multiple chronic diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Often, consuming whole fruits or vegetables showed the enhanced effects than consuming the individual dietary supplement from natural products, which is widely explained by the interactive effects of co-existing phytochemicals in whole foods. Although research relevant to interactive effects among the bioactive compounds mounted up, the mechanism of interaction is still not clear. Especially, biological influence factors such as bioavailability are often neglected. The present review summarizes the progress on the synergistic and antagonistic effects of dietary phytochemicals, the evaluating models for antioxidant interactions, and the possible interaction mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo, and with an emphasis on biological-related molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals. The research on the interaction mechanism is of value for guiding how to take advantage of synergistic effects and avoid antagonistic effects in daily diets or phytochemical-based treatments for preventing chronic diseases.

Highly efficient synthesis and characterization of starch aldehyde-catechin conjugate with potent antioxidant activity

In this study, cassava starch aldehyde was functionalized with catechin through acid catalyzed condensation reaction. The structural characterization, stability and antioxidant activity of starch aldehyde-catechin conjugates were investigated. Thin layer chromatography revealed the conjugates did not contain free catechin. UV-vis spectra of the conjugates exhibited an absorption band at 280 nm, attributing to the B-ring of catechin moiety. Fourier-transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated the conjugation occurred between the H-6/H-8 of catechin A-ring and the aldehyde groups of starch aldehyde. X-ray diffraction pattern indicated that the conjugates had an amorphous structure. Scanning electron microscopy showed the conjugates were fragmentary slices with rough surfaces. Notably, the conjugates were more stable than catechin in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4). In addition, the conjugates could not be digested in simulated saliva, gastric and small intestinal juices. The reducing power and free radical scavenging activity of starch aldehyde were remarkably elevated by conjugating with catechin. Meanwhile, the conjugates were non-cytotoxic to RAW264.7 mouse macrophage cells and possessed higher resistant starch contents than starch. Our results suggest starch aldehyde-catechin conjugates can be used as antioxidants in food industry.

Potential applications of hydrophobically modified inulin as an active ingredient in functional foods and drugs - A review

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Inulin is a substance found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

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Inulin was modified by physical and chemical means to improve functionality.

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HMI has been used in the stability of emulsions and suspensions.

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SCFAs inulin esters have transformed the gut microbiota and improved the bioavailability of SCFAs.

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HMI based bioconjugates, hydrogel, and nanomicelles were used as a controlled release of drugs and vaccines.

Over the past few years, hydrophobically modified inulin (HMI) has gained considerable attention due to its multitudinous features. The targeted release of drugs remains a subject of research interest. Moreover, it is important to explore the properties of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) inulin esters because they are less studied. Additionally, HMI has been used to stabilize various dispersion formulations, which have been observed to be safe because inulin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). However, the results regarding HMI-based dispersion products are dispersed throughout the literature. This comprehensive review is discussed the possible limitations regarding SCFAs inulin esters, real food dispersion formulations, and HMI drugs. The results revealed that SCFAs inulin esters can regulate the human gut microbiota and increase the biological half-life of SCFAs in the human body. This comprehensive review discusses the versatility of HMI as a promising excipient for the production of hydrophobic drugs.

Matcha Improves Metabolic Imbalance-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction

This study was conducted to assess the protective effect of extract of match (EM) on high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced cognitive deficits in male C57BL/6 mice. It was found that EM improved glucose tolerance status by measuring OGTT and IPGTT with HFD-induced mice. EM protected behavioral and memory dysfunction in Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze tests. Consumption of EM reduced fat mass, dyslipidemia, and inflammation in adipose tissue. Also, EM ameliorated hepatic and cerebral antioxidant systems. EM improved the cerebral cholinergic system by regulating ACh contents and expression of AChE and ChAT. Also, EM restored mitochondrial function in liver and brain tissue. EM attenuated hepatic inflammatory effect, lipid synthesis, and cholesterol metabolism by regulating the protein expression of TNF-α, TNFR1, p-IRS-1, p-JNK, IL-1β, iNOS, COX-2, HMGCR, PPARγ, and FAS. Finally, EM regulated cognitive function and neuroinflammation in the whole brain, hippocampus, and cerebral cortex by regulating the protein expression of p-JNK, p-Akt, p-tau, Aβ, BDNF, IDE, COX-2, and IL-1β. These findings suggest that EM might be a potential source of functional food to improve metabolic disorder-associated cognitive dysfunction.

Atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in liver cancer: Deciphering the role of gut microbiome

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Much recent research has delved into understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of HCC pathogenesis, which has revealed to be heterogenous and complex. Two major hallmarks of HCC include: (i) a hijacked immunometabolism and (ii) a reprogramming in metabolic processes. We posit that the gut microbiota is a third component in an entanglement triangle contributing to HCC progression. Besides metagenomic studies highlighting the diagnostic potential in the gut microbiota profile, recent research is pinpointing the gut microbiota as an instigator, not just a mere bystander, in HCC. In this chapter, we discuss mechanistic insights on atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in HCC, including the examination of tumor-associated macrophages and neutrophils, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (e.g., T-cell exhaustion, regulatory T-cells, natural killer T-cells), the Warburg effect, rewiring of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and glutamine addiction. We further discuss the potential involvement of the gut microbiota in these characteristics of hepatocarcinogenesis. An immediate highlight is that microbiota metabolites (e.g., short chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids) can impair anti-tumor responses, which aggravates HCC. Lastly, we describe the rising 'new era' of immunotherapies (e.g., immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T-cell transfer) and discuss for the potential incorporation of gut microbiota targeted therapeutics (e.g., probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation) to alleviate HCC. Altogether, this chapter invigorates for continuous research to decipher the role of gut microbiome in HCC from its influence on immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming.

The physiological functions and pharmaceutical applications of inulin: A review

Inulin (IN), a fructan-type plant polysaccharide, is widely found in nature. The major plant sources of IN include chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, dahlia etc. Studies have found that IN possessed a wide array of biological activities, e.g. as a prebiotic to improve the intestinal microbe environment, regulating blood sugar, regulating blood lipids, antioxidant, anticancer, immune regulation and so on. Currently, IN is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. IN can be used as thickener, fat replacer, sweetener and water retaining agent in the food industry. IN also can be applied in the pharmaceutics as stabilizer, drug carrier, and auxiliary therapeutic agent for certain diseases such as constipation and diabetes. This paper reviews the physiological functions of IN and its applications in the field of pharmaceutics, analyzes its present research status and future research direction. This review will serve as a one-in-all resource for the researchers who are interested to work on IN.

Antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effect of 10 medicinal herbs on CCl4-induced liver injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Many natural products confer health benefits against diverse diseases through their antioxidant activities. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) is often used in animal experiments to study the effects of substances on liver injury and the related mechanisms of action, among which oxidative stress is a major pathogenic factor.

AIM

To compare antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of ten herbs and identify and quantify phytochemicals for the one with strongest hepatoprotection.

METHODS

The antioxidant activity of ten medicinal herbs was determined by both ferric-reducing antioxidant power and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined by Folin–Ciocalteu method and aluminum chloride colorimetry, respectively. Their effects on CCl₄-induced oxidative liver injury were evaluated and compared in a mouse model by administrating each water extract (0.15 g/mL, 10 mL/kg) once per day for seven consecutive days and a dose of CCl₄ solution in olive oil (8%, v/v, 10 mL/kg). The herb with the strongest hepatoprotective performance was analyzed for the detailed bioactive components by using high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization source-ion trap tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

The results revealed that all tested herbs attenuated CCl₄-induced oxidative liver injury; each resulted in significant decreases in levels of serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and triacylglycerols. In addition, most herbs restored hepatic superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, glutathione levels, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. Sanguisorba officinalis (S. officinalis) L., Coptis chinensis Franch., and Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi root were the three most effective herbs, and S. officinalis L. exhibited the strongest hepatoprotective effect. Nine active components were identified in S. officinalis L. Gallic acid and (+)-catechin were quantified (7.86 ± 0.45 mg/g and 8.19 ± 0.57 mg/g dried weight, respectively). Furthermore, the tested herbs displayed a range of in vitro antioxidant activities proportional to their phenolic content; the strongest activities were also found for S. officinalis L.

CONCLUSION

This study is of value to assist the selection of more effective natural products for direct consumption and the development of nutraceuticals or therapeutics to manage oxidative stress-related diseases.

Role of Antioxidant Molecules and Polymers in Prevention of Bacterial Growth and Biofilm Formation

Background:

Antioxidants are multifaceted molecules playing a crucial role in several cellular functions. There is by now a well-established knowledge about their involvement in numerous processes associated with aging, including vascular damage, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. An emerging area of application has been lately identified for these compounds in relation to the recent findings indicating their ability to affect biofilm formation by some microbial pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods:

A structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed research literature was performed using a focused review question. The quality of retrieved papers was appraised using standard tools.

Results:

One hundred sixty-five papers extracted from pubmed database and published in the last fifteen years were included in this review focused on the assessment of the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of antioxidant compounds, including vitamins, flavonoids, non-flavonoid polyphenols, and antioxidant polymers. Mechanisms of action of some important antioxidant compounds, especially for vitamin C and phenolic acids, were identified.

Conclusion:

The findings of this review confirm the potential benefits of the use of natural antioxidants as antimicrobial/antibiofilm compounds. Generally, gram-positive bacteria were found to be more sensitive to antioxidants than gram-negatives. Antioxidant polymeric systems have also been developed mainly derived from functionalization of polysaccharides with antioxidant molecules. The application of such systems in clinics may permit to overcome some issues related to the systemic delivery of antioxidants, such as poor absorption, loss of bioactivity, and limited half-life. However, investigations focused on the study of antibiofilm activity of antioxidant polymers are still very limited in number and therefore they are strongly encouraged in order to lay the foundations for application of antioxidant polymers in treatment of biofilm-based infections.

Chemical characterization of polysaccharides from Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC. infusion and its hepatoprotective effects

Baccharis trimera is a native medicinal plant from South America popularly known as "carqueja". Its infusion is traditionally ingested for the treatment and prevention of hepatic disorders. Up to now, only the crude aqueous extract or hydroethanolic fractions, containing the secondary metabolites, have been studied and correlated with their biological action on the liver. Here we report that an inulin type fructan is present in the B. trimera infusion and contributes to the hepatoprotective effect of the species. In vitro, inulin at 300 μg/mL, was able to scavenger 97% of the DPPH radicals. In vivo experiments showed that it protected the liver against CCl₄-induced injuries. The administration of inulin at low dose of 1 mg/kg significantly reduced the blood levels of ALT, AST and ALP, reduced the lipid peroxidation and increased the catalase activity and the levels of reduced glutathione in the liver of CCl₄-treated mice. Moreover, the administration of inulin at 100 mg/kg increased GSH levels in the liver of Naïve mice. No signs of toxicity were observed. Thus, inulin present in B. trimera infusion protects the liver from the oxidative stress caused by CCl₄ administration and can corroborate with the hepatoprotective effects presented by the species infusion.

Antioxidant Phytoconstituents From Onosma bracteata Wall. (Boraginaceae) Ameliorate the CCl4 Induced Hepatic Damage: In Vivo Study in Male Wistar Rats

Onosma bracteata Wall. (Boraginaceae) is a highly valuable medicinal herb that is used for the treatment of fever, bronchitis, asthma, rheumatism, stomach irritation, and other inflammatory disorders. The present study aims to explore the hepatoprotective potential of ethanolic extract (Obeth) from O. bracteata aerial parts against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) which causes hepatic damage in the male Wistar rats. Obeth showed effective radical quenching activity with an EC₅₀ of 115.14 and 199.33 µg/mL in superoxide radical scavenging and lipid peroxidation analyses respectively along with plasmid DNA protective potential in plasmid nicking assay. The Obeth modulated mutagenicity of 2 Aminofluorine (2AF) in the pre-incubation mode of investigation (EC₅₀ 10.48 µg/0.1 mL/plate) in TA100 strain of Salmonella typhimurium. In in vivo studies, pretreatment of Obeth (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) had the potential to normalize the biochemical markers aggravated by CCl₄ (1mL/kg b.wt.) including liver antioxidative enzymes. Histopathological analysis also revealed the restoration of CCl₄-induced liver histopathological alterations. Immunohistochemical studies showed that the treatment of Obeth downregulated the expression levels of p53 and cyclin D in hepatocytes. and downregulation in the Western blotting analysis revealed the downregulation of p-NF-kB, COX-2, and p53. HPLC data analysis showed the supremacy of major compounds namely, catechin, kaempferol, epicatechin, and Onosmin A in Obeth. The present investigation establishes the hepatoprotective and chemopreventive potential of O. bracteata against CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity via antioxidant defense system and modulation of the expression of proteins associated with the process of carcinogenesis in hepatic cells.

Development of catechin-phospholipid complex to enhance the bioavailability and modulatory potential against cadmium-induced oxidative stress in rats liver

The natural flavonoid (catechin) has been shown to possess a multitude of pharmacological activities. However, oral administrated catechin (CT) failed to fulfil its therapeutic potential due to poor absorption and low bioavailability. Thus, is a pressing need to develop a new approach from to increase its intestinal absorption and improved bioavailability. In this work, we intended the increase the bioavailability of CT by preparing catechin-phospholipid complex (CT-PH) and evaluate the protective effect of CT-PH complex against cadmium caused liver injuries in rats. Oral bioavailability of CT and CT-PH complex was evaluated in rats and the plasma CT was estimated by HPLC analysis. The greater absorption of CT-PH complex rats indicated that improved bioavailability. Liver function markers, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, antioxidant status and histopathological changes were determined in normal and treated rats. Moreover, biochemical analysis and histopathological examinations indicated that CT-PH provided better protection to rat liver than free CT.

Dietary Additives and Supplements Revisited: The Fewer, the Safer for Liver and Gut Health

Purpose of Review

The supplementation of dietary additives into processed foods has exponentially increased in the past few decades. Similarly, the incidence rates of various diseases, including metabolic syndrome, gut dysbiosis and hepatocarcinogenesis, have been elevating. Current research reveals that there is a positive association between food additives and these pathophysiological diseases. This review highlights the research published within the past 5 years that elucidate and update the effects of dietary supplements on liver and intestinal health.

Recent Findings

Some of the key findings include: enterocyte dysfunction of fructose clearance causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); non-caloric sweeteners are hepatotoxic; dietary emulsifiers instigate gut dysbiosis and hepatocarcinogenesis; and certain prebiotics can induce cholestatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in gut dysbiotic mice. Overall, multiple reports suggest that the administration of purified, dietary supplements could cause functional damage to both the liver and gut.

Summary

The extraction of bioactive components from natural resources was considered a brilliant method to modulate human health. However, current research highlights that such purified components may negatively affect individuals with microbiotal dysbiosis, resulting in a deeper break of the symbiotic relationship between the host and gut microbiota, which can lead to repercussions on gut and liver health. Therefore, ingestion of these dietary additives should not go without some caution!

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of Piper retrofractum against Paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague-Dawley rat

The ethanol extracts of Piper retrofractum were investigated for antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity. Hepatoprotective activity against paracetamol-induced acute hepatotoxicity was estimated in Sprague-Dawley rat. In DPPH free radical assay the root and stem extracts showed IC₅₀ values at 133 and 91 µg/mL, respectively, while ascorbic acid at 14 µg/mL. Extracts also exhibited hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and reducing power. HPLC-DAD analysis indicated the presence of some polyphenolic compounds. Treatment of extracts significantly reduced the elevated serum levels of GPT (P < 0.01), GOT (P < 0.01) and bilirubin (P < 0.001). Both extracts restored the reduced level of total proteins and albumin. A significant increase in HDL-c but decrease in LDL-c level was observed compared to induced control. In histopathological study of liver sections, both extracts showed minimal to mild multifocal and diffuse granular degeneration and mild to moderate lobular disarray compared to control group. Results suggest that both extracts can prevent paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity.

Radical Scavenging Activities of Novel Cationic Inulin Derivatives

Many saccharides are attractive targets for biomaterial applications, due to their abundance, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In this article, a synthesis process of 6-N-substituted cationic inulin derivatives, including 6-pyridyl-6-deoxyinulin bromide (PIL), 6-(2-amino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (2APIL), 6-(3-amino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (3APIL), 6-(4-amino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (4APIL), 6-(2,3-diamino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (2,3DAPIL), 6-(3,4-diamino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (3,4DAPIL), and 6-(2,6-diamino-pyridyl)-6-deoxyinulin bromide (2,6DAPIL) was described. The C₆-OH of inulin was first activated by PPh₃/N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) bromination. Then, pyridine and different kinds of amino-pyridine groups (different position and different numbers of amino) were grafted onto inulin, respectively, via nucleophilic substitution. Then, we confirmed their structure by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. After this, their radical scavenging activities against hydroxyl radical and diphenylpicryl phenylhydrazine (DPPH) radical were tested in vitro. Each derivative showed a distinct improvement in radical scavenging activity when compared to inulin. The hydroxyl-radical scavenging effect decreased in the following order: 3APIL > PIL > 3,4DAPIL > 4APIL > 2,3DAPIL > 2,6DAPIL > 2APIL. Amongst them, 3APIL revealed the most powerful scavenging effect on hydroxyl radicals, as well as DPPH radicals. At 1.6 mg/mL, it could completely eliminate hydroxyl radicals and could clear 65% of DPPH radicals. The results also showed that the steric hindrance effect and the substitute position of the amino group had an effect on the radical scavenging activity. Moreover, the application prospects of inulin derivatives as natural antioxidant biomaterials are scientifically proven in this paper.

Recent advances in flavonoid-grafted polysaccharides: Synthesis, structural characterization, bioactivities and potential applications

Plant derived flavonoids have been demonstrated to possess many valuable biological functions. In recent years, flavonoids have been successfully conjugated with polysaccharides through different graft copolymerization methods including chemical coupling, enzyme catalysis, free radical mediated grafting, and acid catalyzed condensation reactions. The successful grafting of flavonoids onto polysaccharides can be confirmed by several instrumental methods. The conjugation of flavonoids can significantly improve the antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, hepatoprotective and enzyme inhibition properties of polysaccharides. Moreover, the applications of polysaccharides in food and pharmaceutical industries can be greatly broadened by grafting with flavonoids. Flavonoid-grafted polysaccharides can be developed as films for active packaging, hydrogels for controlled drug release, micelles for oral drug delivery, and emulsions for nutraceutical delivery. In general, the bioactivities and applications of conjugates are closely related to the type of flavonoid grafted, the grafting method used as well as the grafting efficiency. Recent advances in the synthesis, structural characterization, bioactivities and potential applications of flavonoid-grafted polysaccharides are summarized in this review.

Antioxidant properties of flavonoid derivatives and their hepatoprotective effects on CCl4 induced acute liver injury in mice

Excessive accumulation of free radicals in the body can cause liver damage, aging, cancer, stroke, and myocardial infarction. Anastatin B, a skeletal flavonoid, was reported to have antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. Anastatin B derivatives, compound 1 and 2, were synthesized by our group previously. In this study, their antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective mechanism were studied using chemical evaluation methods, a cellular model of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative damage, and a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury. Results from the chemical evaluation suggested that both compounds had good antioxidant power and radical scavenging ability in vitro. MTT assay showed that both compounds had cytoprotective activity in H2O2-treated PC12 cells. Moreover, their hepatoprotective activities evaluated using a mouse model of CCl4-induced liver injury that compared with the model group, pretreatment with compound 1 and 2 significantly decreased alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels; reduced the liver tissue damage; and increased glutathione content. However, compound 2 was a more effective hepatoprotectant than compound 1 was. Finally, the amount of TNF-α and cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) were significantly downregulated in compound 1 and 2 pretreatment groups. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that both compounds have potential antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effect in vitro and in vivo. Further chemo-biological study and investigation of the compounds' enzymatic targets are ongoing.

In vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of inulin

This study was designed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of inulin. The in vitro assays demonstrated that the antioxidant activities of inulin, including the DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS scavenging activity and ferric reducing power, were weak and significantly lower than those of Vitamin C (P < 0.05). The influence of dietary supplementation with inulin on the antioxidant status of laying hens was evaluated with in vivo antioxidant assays. The results indicated that inulin supplementation quadratically improved the egg production rate of the laying hens (P < 0.01). The antioxidant enzyme activities in the serum, including SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, and the total antioxidant capacity increased quadratically as inulin levels increased (P < 0.001). The levels of MDA in the serum decreased quadratically as inulin levels increased (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that inulin has the potential to improve the antioxidant status of laying hens.

Hepatoprotective potential of Phyllanthus muellarianus leaf extract: studies on hepatic, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers

CONTEXT

Leaves of Phyllanthus muellarianus (Kuntze) Exell. (Euphorbiacea) are widely used in the management of liver disorders in Nigeria. However, no there is no scientific validation to support this use.

OBJECTIVE

Hepatoprotective effect of Phyllanthus muellarianus aqueous leaf extract was investigated in acetaminophen-induced liver injury mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatoprotective effect of Phyllanthus muellarianus aqueous leaf extract was evaluated in acetaminophen-induced hepatic damage in Swiss albino mice using biomarkers of hepatocellular indices, oxidative stress, proinflammatory factors and lipid peroxidation. Mice received distilled water, 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg b.w of Phyllanthus muellarianus aqueous leaf extract, respectively, for seven days. Treatment groups were challenged with 300 mg/kg b.w of acetaminophen on the sixth day.

RESULTS

Oral administration of Phyllanthus muellarianus aqueous leaf extract significantly (p < 0.05) attenuates acetaminophen-mediated alterations in serum alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, albumin and total bilirubin by 76.56, 85.41, 89.39, 82.77 and 78.38%. Similarly, acetaminophen-mediated decrease in activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase were significantly attenuated in the liver of mice by 85.10, 80.81, 80.45, 76.23 and 95.22%, respectively. Increased levels of conjugated dienes, lipid hydroperoxides, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, fragmented DNA, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and -8 were significantly lowered by Phyllanthus muellarianus aqueous leaf extract.

CONCLUSION

Overall, results of this study show that Phyllanthus muellarianus halted acetaminophen-mediated hepatotoxicity due to its capability to enhance antioxidant enzymes.

Acute Pre-/Post-Treatment with 8th Day SOD-Like Supreme (a Free Radical Scavenging Health Product) Protects against Oxidant-Induced Injury in Cultured Cardiomyocytes and Hepatocytes In Vitro as Well as in Mouse Myocardium and Liver In Vivo

8th Day superoxide dismutase (SOD)-Like Supreme (SOD-Like Supreme, a free radical scavenging health product) is an antioxidant-enriched fermentation preparation with free radical scavenging properties. In the present study, the cellular/tissue protective actions of SOD-Like Supreme against menadione toxicity in cultured H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in AML12 hepatocytes as well as oxidant-induced injury in the mouse myocardium and liver were investigated. SOD-Like Supreme was found to possess potent free radical scavenging activity in vitro as assessed by an oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay. Incubation with SOD-Like Supreme (0.5-3% (v/v)) was shown to protect against menadione-induced toxicity in H9c2 and AML12 cells, as evidenced by increases in cell viability. The ability of SOD-Like Supreme to protect against menadione cytotoxicity was associated with an elevation in the cellular reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio in menadione-challenged cells. Consistent with the cell-based studies, pre-/post-treatment with SOD-Like Supreme (0.69 and 2.06 mL/kg, three intermittent doses per day for two consecutive days) was found to protect against isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury and carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in mice. The cardio/hepatoprotection afforded by SOD-Like Supreme was also paralleled by increases in myocardial/hepatic mitochondrial GSH/GSSG ratios in the SOD-Like Supreme-treated/oxidant-challenged mice. In conclusion, incubation/treatment with SOD-Like Supreme was found to protect against oxidant-induced injury in vitro and in vivo, presumably by virtue of its free radical scavenging activity.

Inulin-type fructan and infusion of Artemisia vulgaris protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury

BACKGROUND

Infusions of aerial parts of Artemisia vulgaris L. (Asteraceae) are used in herbal medicine to treat several disorders, including hepatosis.

PURPOSE

Evaluation of in vivo hepatoprotective effects of A. vulgaris infusion (VI) and inulin (VPI; i.e., the major polysaccharide of VI).

STUDY DESIGN

The hepatoprotective effect of A. vulgaris extracts on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatotoxicity and the probable mechanism involved in this protection were investigated in mice.

METHODS

A. vulgaris infusion (VI) was prepared according to folk medicine using the aerial parts of the plant. Carbohydrate, protein, and total phenolic content was determined in VI, and its phenolic profile was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Male Swiss mice were orally pretreated for 7 days with VI or VPI (once per day). On days 6 and 7 of treatment, the mice were intraperitoneally challenged with CCl₄. Liver and blood were collected and markers of hepatic damage in plasma and oxidative stress in the liver were analyzed. Hepatic histology and inflammatory parameters were also studied in the liver. The scavenging activity of VI and VPI were evaluated in vitro using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay.

RESULTS

VI contained 40% carbohydrates, 2.9% proteins and 9.8% phenolic compounds. The HPLC fingerprint analysis of VI revealed chlorogenic, caffeic and dicaffeoylquinic acids as major low-molar-mass constituents. Oral pretreatment with VI and VPI significantly attenuated CCl₄-induced liver damage, reduced the activity of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in plasma, and prevented reactive oxygen species accumulation and lipid peroxidation in the liver. Comparisons with the CCl₄-treated group showed that VI and VPI completely prevented necrosis, increased the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), and reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) level in the liver. VI and VPI also exhibited high radical scavenging activity in vitro.

CONCLUSION

VI and VPI had remarkable hepatoprotective effects in vivo, which were likely attributable to antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. The present findings support the traditional use of A. vulgaris infusion for the treatment of hepatic disorders.

Synthesis and antioxidant evaluation of desmethylxanthohumol analogs and their dimers

Four ring-closed analogs of natural prenylated chalcone desmethylxanthohumol (1) and their dimers were synthesized from the commercially available 1-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)ethan-1-one in five and six linear steps, respectively. The structures of the eight new derivatives were confirmed using¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR and HRMS. The antioxidant activity of the new chalcone derivatives were evaluated in a PC12 cell model of H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage. The SAR studies suggested that the catechol motif was essential for the antioxidant activity. Moreover, the dimers showed better antioxidant activity than their corresponding monomers did. Among them, compound 14d was the most potent and increased PC12 cell viability from 25% to 85%. Flow cytometric analysis showed that compound 14d, the most potent compound, decreased the apoptotic PC12 cell percentage and significantly reduced the LDH release and 8-OHdG generation but increased the GSH levels in H₂O₂-treated PC12 cells. Furthermore, compound 14d had a higher FRAP value than that of gallic acid. It also reduced the stable ABTS⁺ free radical with a lower EC₅₀ than that of gallic acid.

Protective effect of yellow tea extract on N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced liver carcinogenesis

Context Yellow tea containing the same catechins as other types of tea but in different proportions has been suggested to possess potent anticancer activities. Objective This study investigates the chemopreventive effect of yellow tea aqueous extract against N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)-induced liver carcinogenesis in rats by employing histological and biochemical methods. Materials and methods Wistar rats were divided randomly into four groups: control (I), yellow tea (II), NDEA (III), and yellow tea + NDEA (IV). Groups II and IV were exposed via a diet to yellow tea extract in a concentration of 10 g/kg feed; groups III and IV received 0.01% NDEA in drinking water. The experiment lasted for 13 weeks. Results Daily intake of yellow tea in an average dose of 800 mg/kg b.w. alleviated the carcinogenic effect of NDEA as evidenced by reversed histopathological changes towards normal hepatocellular architecture and decreased lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl formation, and DNA degradation by 64%, 37% and 15%, respectively, as compared with values obtained in NDEA alone-treated rats. Treatment with yellow tea extract caused protection of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT); their activity was recovered by 47% and 12%, respectively, as compared with the NDEA-treated rats. Moreover, the extract normalized the NDEA-induced activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while a further increase in the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) was noticed. Conclusions On the basis of these findings, it can be concluded that treatment with yellow tea partially protected the livers of rats from NDEA-induced hepatocarcinogenesis and that its antioxidant activity contributed to this effect.