Curcumin, a Curcuma longa constituent, acts on MAPK p38 pathway modulating COX-2 and iNOS expression in chronic experimental colitis

Ulcerative colitis: molecular insights and intervention therapy

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. The pathogenesis and treatment of UC remain key areas of research interest. Various factors, including genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and alterations in the gut microbiota, are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of UC. Current treatments for UC include 5-aminosalicylic acids, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics. However, study reported that the one-year clinical remission rate is only around 40%. It is necessary to prompt the exploration of new treatment modalities. Biologic therapies, such as anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody and JAK inhibitor, primarily consist of small molecules targeting specific pathways, effectively inducing and maintaining remission. Given the significant role of the gut microbiota, research into intestinal microecologics, such as probiotics and prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promising potential in UC treatment. Additionally, medicinal herbs, such as chili pepper and turmeric, used in complementary therapy have shown promising results in UC management. This article reviews recent findings on the mechanisms of UC, including genetic susceptibility, immune cell dynamics and cytokine regulation, and gut microbiota alterations. It also discusses current applications of biologic therapy, herbal therapy, microecologics, and FMT, along with their prospects and challenges.

Natural Products and Altered Metabolism in Cancer: Therapeutic Targets and Mechanisms of Action

Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation and the dysregulation of numerous biological functions, including metabolism. Because of the potential implications of targeted therapies, the metabolic alterations seen in cancer cells, such as the Warburg effect and disruptions in lipid and amino acid metabolism, have gained attention in cancer research. In this review, we delve into recent research examining the influence of natural products on altered cancer metabolism. Natural products were selected based on their ability to target cancer's altered metabolism. We identified the targets and explored the mechanisms of action of these natural products in influencing cellular energetics. Studies discussed in this review provide a solid ground for researchers to consider natural products in cancer treatment alone and in combination with conventional anticancer therapies.

Curcumin attenuates lupus nephritis by inhibiting neutrophil migration via PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signalling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of curcumin in the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN) by inhibiting the migration of neutrophils and the underlying mechanism involved.

METHODS

Two lupus mouse models, MRL/lpr mice and R848-treated mice, were treated with 50 mg/kg curcumin by intraperitoneal injection. H&E and Masson staining were used to estimate histopathological changes in the kidney. Immunofluorescence was used to assess the deposition of immune complexes. The expression of inflammatory factors was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time reverse transcription polymerase reaction (RT-PCR), and the protein expression was detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

We revealed the remarkable potential of curcumin in improving inflammatory conditions in both MRL/lpr mice and R848-induced lupus mice. Curcumin effectively decelerates the progression of inflammation and diminishes the infiltration of neutrophils and their release of pivotal inflammatory factors, thereby reducing inflammation in renal tissues. Mechanistically, curcumin significantly inhibits the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT and p-NF-κB, which are upregulated by interleukin-8 to induce neutrophil migration and renal inflammation, thereby reducing neutrophil migration and the release of inflammatory factors.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin significantly inhibits the recruitment of neutrophils and the release of proinflammatory factors in the kidney by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signalling pathway, providing new therapeutic targets and medication strategies for the treatment of LN.

Advancing Gastrointestinal Health: Curcumin's Efficacy and Nanopreparations

Curcumin (CCM) is a polyphenol compound extracted from the turmeric rhizome. It has various biological activities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant. Due to its diverse activities, it is often used by researchers to study the therapeutic effects on various diseases. However, its poor solubility leads to poor bioavailability, and it is necessary to increase the water solubility with the help of carriers to improve the therapeutic effect. Gastrointestinal disease is a major global health problem that continues to affect human health. In this review, we have summarized the possible mechanism and therapeutic effect of CCM in various gastrointestinal diseases, and the improvement in the curative effect of CCM with nanopreparation. Finally, we concluded that there have been many clinical trials of CCM in combination with other drugs for the treatment of gastrointestinal disease, but so far, few have used CCM nanomaterials for treatment. Although in vitro and preclinical experiments have shown that nanopreparations can improve the efficacy of CCM, there are still insufficient studies on the safety of carriers.

The Golden Spice for Life: Turmeric with the Pharmacological Benefits of Curcuminoids Components, Including Curcumin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, and Demethoxycurcumins

BACKGROUND

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, is a perennial rhizomatous plant of tropical and subtropical regions. The three major chemical components responsible for the biological activities of turmeric are curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin.

METHODS

The literature search included review articles, analytical studies, randomized control experiments, and observations, which have been gathered from various sources, such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. A review of the literature was carried out using the keywords: turmeric, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Iranian medicine, traditional Indian medicine, curcumin, curcuminoids, pharmaceutical benefits, turmerone, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. The main components of the rhizome of the leaf are α-turmerone, β-turmerone, and arturmerone.

RESULTS

The notable health benefits of turmeric are antioxidant activity, gastrointestinal effects, anticancer effects, cardiovascular and antidiabetic effects, antimicrobial activity, photoprotector activity, hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects, and appropriate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and inflammatory and edematic disorders.

DISCUSSION

Curcuminoids are phenolic compounds usually used as pigment spices with many health benefits, such as antiviral, antitumour, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, anticancer, and antifungal effects. Curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, and demethoxycurcumin are the major active and stable bioactive constituents of curcuminoids. Curcumin, which is a hydroponic polyphenol, and the main coloring agent in the rhizomes of turmeric, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anticarcinogenic activities, as well as beneficial effects for infectious diseases and Alzheimer's disease. Bisdemethoxycurcumin possesses antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-metastasis activities. Demethoxycurcumin, which is another major component, has anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and anti-cancer activities and is the appropriate candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

CONCLUSION

The goal of this review is to highlight the health benefits of turmeric in both traditional and modern pharmaceutical sciences by considering the important roles of curcuminoids and other major chemical constituents of turmeric.

Potential neuroprotective effect of nanomicellar curcumin on learning and memory functions following subacute exposure to bisphenol A in adult male rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical commonly utilized in the manufacture of plastics, which may cause damage to brain tissue. Curcumin is a phytochemical with protective effects against neurological and mental diseases. The purpose of this research was to evaluate whether nanomicellar curcumin (NmCur) might protect rats against BPA-induced learning and memory deficits. After determining the proper dose of BPA, the animals were randomly divided into 8 groups (8 rats in each group) receiving dextrose 5% (as vehicle of NmCur) (Dex), sesame oil (as vehicle of BPA) (Sea), Sea plus Dex, NmCur (50 mg/kg), BPA (50 mg/kg), and 50 mg/kg BPA plus 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg NmCur groups, respectively. Behavioral tests performed using passive avoidance training (PAT), open-field (OF), and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. The expression of oxidative stress markers, proinflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress-scavenging enzymes, glutamate receptors, and MAPK and memory-related proteins was measured in rat hippocampus and cortical tissues. BPA up-regulated ROS, MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, SOD, GST, p-P38, and p-JNK levels; however, it down-regulated GSH, GPx, GR, CAT, p-AKT, p-ERK1/2, p-NR1, p-NR2A, p-NR2B, p-GluA1, p-CREB, and BDNF levels. BPA decreased step-through latency (STL) and peripheral and total, but not central, locomotor activity. It increased the time to find the hidden platform, the mean of escape latency time, and the traveled distance in the target quadrant, but decreased the time spent in the target quadrant. The combination of BPA (50 mg/kg) and NmCur (25 and 50 mg/kg) reversed all of BPA's adverse effects. Therefore, NmCur exhibited neuroprotective effects against subacute BPA-caused learning and memory impairment.

Anti-inflammatory effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum T1 cell-free supernatants through suppression of oxidative stress and NF-κB- and MAPK-signaling pathways

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum T1 is an isolated probiotic lactic acid bacterium (LAB) from pickled vegetables in Chongqing, China. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity and the underlying mechanisms of L. plantarum T1 cell-free supernatant (CFS) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine RAW264.7 macrophages in vitro. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence, Griess methods, and western blotting were utilized to assess the anti-inflammatory cytokines and antioxidative effect of L. plantarum T1 CFS. Our results showed that L. plantarum T1 CFS pretreatment significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, including nitric oxide, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, tumor necrosis factor, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, as well as reactive oxygen species. Interestingly, L. plantarum T1 CFS unregulated the antioxidant indicators, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione in RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, L. plantarum T1 CFS activated the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. This study showed the excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of L. plantarum T1 through multiple pathways, highlighting its potential for further research and application as a probiotic strain.IMPORTANCEL. plantarum T1 stood out in a series of acid and bile salt tolerance and bacterial inhibition tests as a probiotic isolated from paocai, which provides many health benefits to the host by inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogenic microorganisms and suppressing excessive levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. Not all LAB have good probiotic functions and are used in various applications. The anti-inflammatory antioxidant potential and mechanisms of L. plantarum T1 CFS have not been described and reported. By using RT-qPCR, Griess method, and western blotting, we showed that L. plantarum T1 CFS had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Griess assay, TBA assay, WST-8 assay, immunofluorescence assay, RT-qPCR, and western blotting data revealed that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms were associated with oxidative stress and NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of L. plantarum T1 CFS in paocai generates opportunities for probiotic product development.

Impact of curcumin on p38 MAPK: therapeutic implications

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a herbal remedy which possesses numerous biological attributes including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. Curcumin has been shown to impact a number of signaling pathways including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB), reactive oxygen species (ROS), Wingless/Integrated (Wnt), Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and transcription (JAK/STAT). P38 belongs to the MAPKs, is known as a stress-activated MAPK and is involved in diverse biological responses. P38 is activated in various signaling cascades. P38 plays a role in inflammation, cell differentiation, proliferation, motility and survival. This cascade can serve as a therapeutic target in many disorders. Extensive evidence confirms that curcumin impacts the P38 MAPK signaling pathway, through which it exerts anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and apoptotic effects. Hence, curcumin can positively affect inflammatory disorders and cancers, as well as to increase glucose uptake in cells. This review discusses the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of curcumin as effected through p38 MAPK.

Curcumin potentiates the anti-inflammatory effects of Tehranolide by modulating the STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathway in breast and ovarian cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

Studies have demonstrated that natural products, such as curcumin and artemisinin, possess anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for cancer treatment. Tehranolide, as a novel natural product, has a wide range of biological activities, including anti-cancer effects. However, many properties of Tehranolide, like its anti-inflammatory activity and its combination with curcumin, have not been investigated yet. This investigation examined the anti-inflammatory activity of Tehranolide, either alone or in combination with curcumin, via modulating the NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) and STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) signaling pathways in MDA-MB-231 and SKOV3, breast and ovarian cancer cell lines.

METHODS

ELISA-based methods were employed to measure the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and the NF-κB activity in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cells. The real-time PCR experiment and Griess test were performed to evaluate inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression and nitrite levels, respectively. The STAT3 and NF-κB signaling pathways were investigated by Western blotting analysis. Tehranolide's anti-cancer activity was also assessed in a mouse model of breast cancer using the TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase nick-end labeling) assay.

RESULTS

Tehranolide diminished levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cancer cells. Additionally, it suppressed NF-κB DNA binding and STAT3 phosphorylation, reducing iNOS gene expression and nitrite production. Moreover, Western blotting showed that Tehranolide enhanced the inhibitory κB (IκBα) and Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2)-associated X (BAX) expression, and downregulated the expression of Bcl-2 proteins. Furthermore, the TUNEL assay demonstrated that Tehranolide induced apoptosis in a breast cancer mouse model. Curcumin potentiated all the anti-inflammatory effects of Tehranolide.

CONCLUSION

This investigation indicated for the first time that Tehranolide, either alone or in combination with curcumin, exerted its anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways in SKOV3 and MDA-MB-231 cells.

Exploring the efficacy of herbal medicinal products as oral therapy for inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a collection of idiopathic diseases characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Patients diagnosed with IBD often experience necessitate long-term pharmacological interventions. Among the multitude of administration routes available for treating IBD, oral administration has gained significant popularity owing to its convenience and widespread utilization. In recent years, there has been extensive evaluation of the efficacy of orally administered herbal medicinal products and their extracts as a means of treating IBD. Consequently, substantial evidence has emerged, supporting their effectiveness in IBD treatment. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of recent studies evaluating the effects of herbal medicinal products in the treatment of IBD. We delved into the regulatory role of these products in modulating immunity and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Additionally, we examined their impact on antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory properties, and the modulation of intestinal flora. By exploring these aspects, we aimed to emphasize the significant advantages associated with the use of oral herbal medicinal products in the treatment of IBD. Of particular note, this review introduced the concept of herbal plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs) as the active ingredient in herbal medicinal products for the treatment of IBD. The inclusion of PDENs offers distinct advantages, including enhanced tissue penetration and improved physical and chemical stability. These unique attributes not only demonstrate the potential of PDENs but also pave the way for the modernization of herbal medicinal products in IBD treatment.

Diarylidene-N-Methyl-4-Piperidones and Spirobibenzopyrans as Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Curcumin has antioxidant properties resulting from its radical scavenging ability and inhibition of inflammation-associated factors. However, its lack of solubility, instability, and poor bioavailability are impediments to its therapeutic use. As potential alternatives, we synthesized and performed chemical analysis of thirty diarylidene-N-methyl-4-piperidone (DANMP), diheteroarylidene-N-methyl-4-piperidone (DHANMP), and spirobibenzopyran (SBP) derivatives, one of which was also characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. All compounds were evaluated for antioxidant activity via 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and for drug-like properties in silico. A subset of five compounds was investigated in terms of aqueous solubilities, which were significantly improved compared to that of curcumin. In vitro assessments of cellular and anti-inflammatory effects were conducted via real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Griess assays to evaluate the presence of inflammatory/activated (M1) markers and production of nitric oxide (NO) species, which are associated with inflammation. The five compounds reduced levels of markers and NO to extents similar to or better than curcumin in inflamed cells, and showed no adverse effects on cell viability. We show that these compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties and may be used as curcumin-substitutes with improved characteristics.

α-Terpineol Mitigates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Rats by Attenuating Inflammation and Apoptosis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of the major inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. α-Terpineol (αTL) is naturally present in several plants, and it belongs to the monoterpenes category. αTL possesses various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antiulcer activities. Importantly, αTL has been reported to possess potent anti-inflammatory effects also. In this study, we hypothesize that αTL may have protective effects against dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in Wistar rats. Animals were randomly allocated to 3 groups of 6 rats each. In group III, αTL was administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg b. wt. orally from days 1 to 14, while in groups II and III, 4% DSS in drinking water was given to rats ad libitum from the 7th to 14th days. After 24 h of the last dose of αTL, all animals were euthanized. αTL administration reduced the DSS-induced colonic disease activity index, tissue damage, and goblet cell disintegration. αTL suppressed the orchestration of mast cells in the inflamed colon, enhanced the immunostaining of NF-kB-p65, COX-2, iNOS, p53, caspase-9, and cleaved caspase-3, and suppressed the immunostaining of connexin-43, survivin, and Bcl-2. The activities of caspases-9 and -3 were reduced significantly by αTL pretreatment, as also confirmed by calorimetric assays. Moreover, αTL significantly attenuated the nitric oxide level and myeloperoxidase activity. Histological results further support the fact that αTL reduced DSS-induced colonic damage and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. Overall, our findings suggest that αTL has strong protective effects against DSS-induced colitis by mitigating inflammatory and apoptotic responses.

Polysaccharides-based nanocarriers enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin

Curcumin (CUR) has been discovered to have many biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxygenation, anti-human immunodeficiency virus, anti-microbial and exhibits a good effect on the prevention and treatment of many diseases. However, the limited properties of CUR, including the poor solubility, bioavailability and instability caused by enzymes, light, metal irons, and oxygen, have compelled researchers to turn their attention to drug carrier application to overcome these drawbacks. Encapsulation may provide potential protective effects to the embedding materials and/or have a synergistic effect with them. Therefore, nanocarriers, especially polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, have been developed in many studies to enhance the anti-inflammatory capacity of CUR. Consequently, it's critical to review current advancements in the encapsulation of CUR using polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, as well as further study the potential mechanisms of action where polysaccharides-based CUR nanoparticles (the complex nanoparticles/Nano CUR-delivery systems) exhibit their anti-inflammatory effects. This work suggests that polysaccharides-based nanocarriers will be a thriving field in the treatment of inflammation and inflammation-related diseases.

Crosstalk between phytochemicals and inflammatory signaling pathways

Novel bioactive constituents from natural sources are actively being investigated. The phytochemicals in these phenolic compounds are believed to have a variety of beneficial effects on human health. Several phenolic compounds have been found in plants. The antioxidant potential of phenols has been discussed in numerous studies along with their anti-inflammatory effects on pro-inflammatory cytokine, inducible cyclooxygenase-2, and nitric oxide synthase. Through current study, an attempt is made to outline and highlight a wide variety of inflammation-associated signaling pathways that have been modified by several natural compounds. These signaling pathways include nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-кB), activator protein (AP)-1, protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factors, tyrosine phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In light of the influence of natural substances on signaling pathways, their impact on the production of inflammatory mediator is highlighted in this review.

Curcumin-loaded alginate hydrogels for cancer therapy and wound healing applications: A review

Hydrogels have emerged as a versatile platform for a numerous biomedical application due to their ability to absorb a huge quantity of biofluids. In order to design hydrogels, natural polymers are an attractive option owing to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. Due to abundance in occurrence, cost effectiveness, and facile crosslinking approaches, alginate has been extensively investigated to fabricate hydrogel matrix. Management of cancer and chronic wounds have always been a challenge for pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. In both cases, curcumin have been shown significant improvement and effectiveness. However, the innate restraints like poor bioavailability, hydrophobicity, and rapid systemic clearance associated with curcumin have restricted its clinical translations. The current review explores the cascade of research around curcumin encapsulated alginate hydrogel matrix for wound healing and cancer therapy. The focus of the review is to emphasize the mechanistic effects of curcumin with its fate inside the cells. Further, the review discusses different approaches to designed curcumin loaded alginate hydrogels along with the parameters that regulates their release behavior. Finally, the review is concluded with emphasize on some key aspect on increasing the efficacy of these hydrogels along with novel strategies to further develop curcumin loaded alginate hydrogel matrix with multifacet applications.

Hyaluronic acid/serotonin-decorated cerium dioxide nanomedicine for targeted treatment of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease often characterized by rapid progression and frequent comorbidities that make its treatment challenging. In colonic ulcers of UC patients, myeloperoxidase (MPO) is highly expressed, which results in an abundance of macrophages and reactive oxygen species. This study developed an active MPO-targeting hyaluronic acid/serotonin ceria nanoenzyme (HA-5-HT@CeO₂) using the electrostatic interaction between CeO₂ nanoparticles, 5-hydroxyserotonin-cerium oxide and hyaluronic acid. Based on the dual targeting effects of MPO and the macrophage CD44+ receptor in locating the inflammatory site in conjunction with the inflammatory area of the colon through electrostatic action, CeO₂ nanoparticles along with multiple similar enzymes were used to eliminate O₂, H₂O₂ and ˙OH and other reactive oxygen species, achieving targeted repair of the intestinal epithelial barrier through the elimination of inflammatory factors. In studies involving pharmacodynamics in vitro and DSS-induced animal models of acute colitis in vivo, HA-5-HT@CeO₂ has been shown to reduce inflammation further and treat ulcerative colitis compared to traditional drugs. Additionally, active targeting of MPO inflammation can lead to accurate drug delivery to the site and can minimize the side effects associated with the drug. HA-5-HT@CeO₂ is a promising novel drug for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. In addition to illustrating the benefits of this novel nanodrug delivery in treating ulcerative colitis compared to traditional medications, this study provides theoretical and experimental support for its application to any targeted therapy for ulcerative colitis.

Neuropeptide W Exhibits Preventive and Therapeutic Effects on Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis via Modulation of the Cyclooxygenase Enzyme System

BACKGROUND

The novel peptide neuropeptide W (NPW) was originally shown to function in the control of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis. The aim of this study was to elucidate the putative preventive and therapeutic effects of NPW on colitis-associated oxidative injury and the underlying mechanisms for its action.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats in the acute colitis groups received NPW (0.5, 1 or 5 µg/kg/day) injections prior to induction of colitis with acetic acid, while the chronic colitis groups were treated after the induction of colitis. In both acute and chronic colitis (CC) groups, treatments were continued for 5 days and the rats were decapitated at the 24th hour of the last injections and colon tissues were collected for assessments.

RESULTS

NPW pretreatment given for 5 days before colitis induction, as well as treating rats with NPW during the 5-day course of CC, abolished colonic lipid peroxidation. NPW treatment prevented colitis-induced reduction in blood flow, diminished neutrophil infiltration, and pro-inflammatory cytokine responses. NPW pretreatment only at the higher dose reduced colonic edema and microscopic score and preserved colonic glutathione stores. Elevations in cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activity and COX-1 protein level during the acute phase of colitis as well as reduction in COX-2 were all reversed with NPW pretreatment. In contrast, NPW treatment was effective in reducing the elevated COX-2 concentration during the chronic phase.

CONCLUSIONS

NPW alleviates acetic acid-induced oxidative colonic injury in rats through the upregulation of colonic blood flow as well as the inhibition of COX-2 protein expression and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

Role of Dietary Polyphenols in the Activity and Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthases: A Review

Nitric oxide (NO) plays several key roles in the functionality of an organism, and it is usually released in numerous organs and tissues. There are mainly three isoforms of the enzyme that produce NO starting from the metabolism of arginine, namely endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). The expression and activity of these isoforms depends on the activation/deactivation of different signaling pathways at an intracellular level following different physiological and pathological stimuli. Compounds of natural origin such as polyphenols, which are obtainable through diet, have been widely studied in recent years in in vivo and in vitro investigations for their ability to induce or inhibit NO release, depending on the tissue. In this review, we aim to disclose the scientific evidence relating to the activity of the main dietary polyphenols in the modulation of the intracellular pathways involved in the expression and/or functionality of the NOS isoforms.

Impact of free curcumin and curcumin nanocapsules on viability and oxidative status of neural cell lines

Curcumin is an active polyphenol substance found in the highest concentrations in the roots of Curcuma longa. Its health benefits have led to recent increases in the consumption of curcumin. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and is a potent neuroprotective against diseases of the brain. Nevertheless, its low bioavailability and its relative difficulty crossing the blood-brain barrier limit curcumin's use for these purposes. Curcumin-loaded nanoparticles may be an effective treatment for several diseases although there is a paucity of studies reporting its safety in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, this study aimed to identify non-neurotoxic concentrations of free curcumin and two nanoformulations of curcumin. Cell lines BV-2 and SH-SY5Y, both originating from the CNS, were evaluated after 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment with free curcumin and nanocapsules We measured viability, proliferation, and dsDNA levels. We measured levels of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide as proxies for oxidative stress in culture supernatants. We found that free curcumin was toxic at 10 and 20 µM, principally at 72 h. Nanoformulations were more neurotoxic than the free form. Safe concentrations of free curcumin are between 1-5 µM, and these concentrations were lower for nanoformulations. We determined the ideal concentrations of free curcumin and nanocapsules serving as a basis for studies of injuries that affect the CNS.

Curcumin alleviates experimental colitis in mice by suppressing necroptosis of intestinal epithelial cells

Curcumin, the primary bioactive substance in turmeric, exhibits potential therapeutic effects on ulcerative colitis. However, its mechanism for regulating necroptosis in colitis has not been fully elucidated. In this study, the effect of curcumin on experimental colitis-induced necroptosis of intestinal epithelial cells was investigated, and its molecular mechanism was further explored. We found that curcumin blocked necroptosis in a dose-dependent manner by inhibiting the phosphorylation of RIP3 and MLKL instead of RIP1 in HT-29 cells. Co-Immunoprecipitation assay showed that curcumin weakened the interaction between RIP1 and RIP3, possibly due to the direct binding of curcumin to RIP3 as suggested by drug affinity responsive target stability analysis. In a classical in vivo model of TNF-α and pan-caspase inhibitor-induced necroptosis in C57BL/6 mice, curcumin potently inhibited systemic inflammatory responses initiated by the necroptosis signaling pathway. Then, using a dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis model in C57BL/6 mice, we found that curcumin inhibited the expression of p-RIP3 in the intestinal epithelium, reduced intestinal epithelial cells loss, improved the function of the intestinal tight junction barrier, and reduced local intestinal inflammation. Collectively, our findings suggest that curcumin is a potent targeted RIP3 inhibitor with anti-necroptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, maintains intestinal barrier function, and effectively alleviates colitis injury.

An update on molecular mechanisms of curcumin effect on diabetes

Owing to its prevalent nature, diabetes mellitus has become one of the most serious endocrine illnesses affecting a patient's quality of life due to the manifestation of side effects such as cardiovascular diseases, retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy. Curcumin ((1E, 6E) 21, 7-bis (4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione), a major compound of turmeric, has been used in conventional medicine because of its safe nature and cost-effectiveness to meliorate diabetes and its comorbidities. These effects have also been observed in rodent models of diabetes resulting in a reduction of glycemia and blood lipids. Both the preventive and therapeutic activities of this compound are due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Furthermore, preclinical outcomes and clinical investigation demonstrate that the use of curcumin neutralizes insulin resistance, obesity, and hyperglycemia. Despite the many benefits of curcumin, its two limiting factors, solubility and bioavailability, remain a challenge for researchers; therefore, several methods such as drug formulation, nano-drug delivery, and the use of curcumin analogs have been developed to deliver curcumin and increase its bioavailability. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The rise of people with type 2 diabetes has become a major concern at the global healthcare level. The best diabetes treatments today are anti-diabetic drug administration, lifestyle-related interventions (such as healthy eating and daily physical activity), arterial pressure detection, and fat control. The polyphenol curcumin, found in turmeric, can promote health by acting on a variety of cellular signaling pathways. This review article discusses curcumin and its role in the treatment of diabetes.

Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract in the Treatment of 10 Types of Autoimmune Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 31 Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective

To evaluate the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Methods

Databases such as Embase, Web of Science, PubMed and The Cochrane Library were searched from the database establishment to February 2022 to collect RCTs of Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Then the literature was screened and the data were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

A total of 34 records were included, involving 31 RCTs and 10 types of autoimmune disease. Among them, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) involves one RCT, Behcet ‘s disease (BD) involves one RCT, Crohn ‘s disease involves two RCTs, multiple sclerosis (MS) involves two RCTs, oral lichen planus involves six RCTs, psoriasis involves two RCTs, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves five RCTs, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) involves two RCTs, arteritis involves one RCT, ulcerative colitis (UC) involves nine RCTs. Among them, most of the RCTs of ulcerative colitis (UC), oral lichen planus, RA showed that curcumin and curcumin extracts improved clinical or laboratory results. Crohn ‘ s disease, MS, SLE, psoriasis included two RCTs; they all showed improvements (at least one RCT reported improvements in clinical outcomes). AS, BD and arteritis included only one RCT, and the clinical results showed improvement. However, due to the small number of RCTs and the small number of patients involved in each disease, there is still a need for more high-quality RCTs.

Conclusion

Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract had good clinical efficacy in the treatment of Psoriasis, UC and RA, so Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract could be used in the treatment of the above diseases in the future. The results of Meta-analysis showed that Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract did not show efficacy in the treatment of oral lichen planus, while Takayasu arteritis, SLE, MS, AS, BD and CD did not report sufficient clinical data for meta-analysis. Therefore, large-sample, multi-center clinical trials are still needed for revision or validation.

Tectoridin exhibits anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity through the inhibition of the inflammatory response and the MAPK pathway in vivo and in vitro

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by inflammation infiltration of the synovial tissues and the fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Tectoridin is a botanical active ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, the anti-arthritic effects of tectoridin and its mechanism of action are examined in TNF-α-induced human fibroblast-like synovial cells (HFLSs cells) and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-stimulated arthritic mice. Arthritis progression was evaluated via bodyweight, hind paw swelling, organ index, and synovial pathology. IL-1β, IL-6 and other pro-inflammatory factors concentrations, and the expression of MAPK pathway proteins in HFLSs cells and arthritic mice were measured using ELISA and western blotting. Results showed that tectoridin significantly decreased the swelling of the paws and joints as well as the increased immune organ index within CFA-induced arthritic mice. Histopathological analysis showed that tectoridin alleviated the lesions of ankle joints and synovial tissues induced by CFA. Secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in TNF-α-induced HFLSs cells and CFA-stimulated arthritic mice were also abated by tectoridin. Similarly, the presence of tectoridin significantly inhibited the abnormal phosphorylation levels of ERK, JNK, and p38 in vivo and in vitro. All those results highlighted that tectoridin exhibits anti-arthritis effects by inhibiting MAPK-mediated inflammatory responses.

Review of the Effects and Mechanism of Curcumin in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Curcumin is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. It is now widely used in food processing, cosmetics, dyes, etc. Current researching indicates that curcumin has high medical value, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-apoptotic, anti-fibrosis, immune regulation and other effects, and can be used to treat a variety of diseases. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a nonspecific inflammatory disease of the intestine including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The drug treatment effect is often limited and accompanied by side effects. A large number of basic and clinical studies have shown that curcumin has the effect of treating IBD and also can maintain the remission of IBD. In this review, the research of curcumin on IBD in recent years is summarized in order to provide reference for further research and application of curcumin.

Chicken Muscle-Derived ACE2 Upregulating Peptide VVHPKESF Inhibits Angiotensin II-Stimulated Inflammation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells via the ACE2/Ang (1-7)/MasR Axis

This study aimed to evaluate the modulatory effects of four chicken muscle-derived peptides [VRP, LKY, VRY, and VVHPKESF (V-F)] on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced inflammation in rat vascular smooth muscle A7r5 cells. Only V-F could significantly attenuate Ang II-stimulated inflammation via the inhibition of NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling, being dependent on the Mas receptor (MasR) not on the Ang II type 1 or type 2 receptor (AT₁R or AT₂R). V-F accelerated Ang II degradation by enhancing cellular ACE2 activity, which was due to ACE2 upregulation other than a direct ACE2 activation. These findings demonstrated that V-F ameliorated Ang II-induced inflammation in A7r5 cells via the ACE2/Ang (1-7)/MasR axis. Three peptide metabolites of V-F─VHPKESF, PKESF, and SF─were identified but were not considered major contributors to V-F's bioactivity. The regulation of peptide V-F on vascular inflammation supported its functional food or nutraceutical application in the prevention and treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Levilactobacillus brevis KU15151 Inhibits Staphylococcus aureus Lipoteichoic Acid-Induced Inflammation in RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Inflammation is a host defense response to harmful agents, such as pathogenic invasion, and is necessary for health. Excessive inflammation may result in the development of inflammatory disorders. Levilactobacillus brevis KU15151 has been reported to exhibit probiotic characteristics and antioxidant activities, but the effect of this strain on inflammatory responses has not been determined. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of L. brevis KU15151 in Staphylococcus aureus lipoteichoic acid (aLTA)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Treatment with L. brevis KU15151 reduced the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E₂ by suppressing the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2. Additionally, the production of proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β, decreased after treatment with L. brevis KU15151 in aLTA-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, this strain alleviated the activation of nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways. Moreover, the generation of reactive oxygen species was downregulated by treatment with L. brevis KU15151. These results demonstrate that L. brevis KU15151 possesses an inhibitory effect against aLTA-mediated inflammation and may be employed as a functional probiotic for preventing inflammatory disorders.

Curcuma longa and curcumin affect respiratory and allergic disorders, experimental and clinical evidence: A comprehensive and updated review

Curcuma longa and its constituents, mainly curcumin, showed various of pharmacological effects in previous studies. This review article provides updated and comprehensive experimental and clinical evidence regarding the effects of C. longa and curcumin on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders. Using appropriate keywords, databases including PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus were searched until the end of October 2021. C. longa extracts and its constituent, curcumin, showed the relaxant effect on tracheal smooth muscle, which indicates their bronchodilatory effect in obstructive pulmonary diseases. The preventive effects of extracts of C. longa and curcumin were shown in experimental animal models of different respiratory diseases through antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. C. longa and curcumin also showed preventive effects on some lung disorders in the clinical studies. It was shown that the effects of C. longa on pulmonary diseases were mainly due to its constituent, curcumin. Pharmacological effects of C. longa extracts and curcumin on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders indicate the possible therapeutic effect of the plant and curcumin on these diseases.

Protective Effect of Nelumbo nucifera Plant on Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats

Objectives Ulcerative colitis is a global disease with increasing incidence and worldwide prevalence. So this study was undertaken to observe antiulcerative colitis activity of ethanolic extract of seeds of Nelumbo nucifera plant on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in rats.

Materials and Methods The effect of ethanolic extract of N. nucifera seed (EENNS) was studied on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in albino Wistar rats for 11 days. Disease pathogenesis was assessed by evaluation of disease activity index (DAI) including the following parameters: change in body weight, stool constituency, rectal bleeding in animals. Estimation of myeloperoxide (MPO), nitric oxide (NO), and antioxidant parameters like malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase level was performed in colon homogenate of animals. TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor- α) level was measured in colon homogenate using rat TNF-α ELISA kit.

Statistical Analysis Significant differences (mean ± standard error of the mean) were detected using one-way analysis of variance followed by post-test using Graphpad prism 7.0 for multiple comparisons.

Results EENNS (400 mg/kg) significantly improved the disease progression, body weight, and colon length of the animals as compared with the disease control group. Animal treated with EENNS (400 mg/kg) showed significantly improved colon mucosal damage index (1.66 ± 0.21) and DAI (11.66 ± 4.01) as compared with the disease control group. A higher level of SOD and catalase and a lower level of MDA were observed in animals treated with EENNS (400 mg/kg) as compared with the disease control group. Animals treated with EENNS (400 mg/kg) significantly decreased in NO and MPO levels as compared with the disease control group. A lower level of TNF-α (561.94 ± 14.84) was observed in EENNS (400 mg/kg)-treated animals as compared with the disease control group (736.92 ± 15.3). These observations were comparable to those of the standard control group. Histopathological data showed that EENNS (400 mg/kg) has shown reversal of tissue inflammation as compared with the disease group and evidence of less cell infiltration of lymphocytes and monocytes with normal structures of goblet cell and crypts as compared with the disease group.

Conclusions EENNS (400 mg/kg) is endowed with severity of the ulcerative colitis produced by DSS. EENNS showed a protective effect against DSS-induced ulcerative colitis which may be due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Curcumin encapsulation in functional PLGA nanoparticles: A promising strategy for cancer therapies

Nanoparticles have emerged as promising drug delivery systems for the treatment of several diseases. Novel cancer therapies have exploited these particles as alternative adjuvant therapies to overcome the traditional limitations of radio and chemotherapy. Curcumin is a natural bioactive compound found in turmeric, that has been reported to show anticancer activity against several types of tumors. Despite some biological limitations regarding its absorption in the human body, curcumin encapsulation in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), a non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, represents an effective strategy to deliver a drug to a tumor site. Furthermore, PLGA nanoparticles can be engineered with targeting moieties to reach specific cancer cells, thus enhancing the antitumor effects of curcumin. We herein aim to bring an up-to-date summary of the recently developed strategies for curcumin delivery to different types of cancer cells through encapsulation in PLGA nanoparticles, correlating their effects with those of curcumin on the biological capabilities acquired by cancer cells (cancer hallmarks). We discuss the targeting strategies proposed for advanced curcumin delivery and the respective improvements achieved for each cancer cell analyzed, in addition to exploring the encapsulation techniques employed. The conjugation of correct encapsulation techniques with tumor-oriented targeting design can result in curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles that can successfully integrate the elaborate network of development of alternative cancer treatments along with traditional ones. Finally, the current challenges and future demands to launch these nanoparticles in oncology are comprehensively examined.

Antioxidant Stress and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Egg White Proteins and Their Derived Peptides: A Review

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are the common pathological bases of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, but most of the treatment drugs for chronic diseases have side effects. There is an increasing interest to identify food-derived bioactive compounds that can mitigate the pathological pathways associated with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Egg white contain a variety of biologically active proteins, many of which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and usually show better activity after enzymatic hydrolysis. This review covers the antioxidative stress and anti-inflammatory activities of egg white proteins and their derived peptides and clarifies their mechanism of action in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the link between oxidative stress and inflammation as well as their markers are reviewed. It suggests the potential application of egg white proteins and their derived peptides and puts forward further research prospects.

Synergistic anti-inflammatory activity of apigenin and curcumin co-encapsulated in caseins assessed with lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

Dietary polyphenols are potential anti-inflammatory agents, and their combinations with enhanced biological activities may lower toxicity and side effects. The objective of this work was to investigate the potential synergistic anti-inflammatory activities of apigenin and curcumin co-nanoencapsulated in sodium caseinate, with comparison to unencapsulated polyphenol combinations. Non-toxic concentrations of apigenin, curcumin, and their combinations in the free and co-encapsulated forms were studied in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Combinations of free polyphenols produced stronger inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production, more significant at a higher proportion of curcumin, which was further enhanced after co-encapsulation. The enhanced reduction of NO was concomitant with the decreased expression of iNOS, the enhanced inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines of IL-6 and TNF-α, and the reduced production of intracellular reactive oxygen species. The potential multi-target effects and the enhanced solubility, proximity, and bioavailability of AP and CUR after co-encapsulation contributed to the synergistic activities. These results demonstrated that co-nanoencapsulation of apigenin and curcumin may enable the practical application utilizing the synergistic anti-inflammation effects to improve health.

Curcumin supplementation in pediatric patients: A systematic review of current clinical evidence

This systematic review was designed to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of curcumin supplementation for pediatric patients based on clinical trials in children. We systematically searched electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus for all studies that investigated curcumin administration in the pediatric population without any time frame limitation. Finally, we identified 16 studies for this review. Clinical efficacy and safety of curcumin were assessed in children with inflammatory and immune disorders (including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)), metabolic disorders, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), cystic fibrosis (CF), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and infectious diseases. Curcumin was administered in a wide range of doses (45 mg-4,000 mg daily) and durations (2-48 weeks). Overall, curcumin was well tolerated in all studies and improved the severity of inflammatory and immune disorders and metabolic diseases. However, more studies are needed to clarify the role of curcumin supplementation among children with ADPKD, CF, TOF, and infectious diseases. Because of substantial heterogeneity in methodological quality, design, outcomes, dose, duration of intake, formulations, and study populations across studies, no quantitative analysis was performed. Additional large-scale, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm the results of the conducted studies.

Metformin for Cardiovascular Protection, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Osteoporosis, Periodontitis, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Neurodegeneration, Cancer, Inflammation and Senescence: What Is Next?

Diabetes is accompanied by several complications. Higher prevalence of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease (CKD), obesity, osteoporosis, and neurodegenerative diseases has been reported among patients with diabetes. Metformin is the oldest oral antidiabetic drug and can improve coexisting complications of diabetes. Clinical trials and observational studies uncovered that metformin can remarkably prevent or alleviate cardiovascular diseases, obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), osteoporosis, cancer, periodontitis, neuronal damage and neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), tuberculosis, and COVID-19. In addition, metformin has been proposed as an antiaging agent. Numerous mechanisms were shown to be involved in the protective effects of metformin. Metformin activates the LKB1/AMPK pathway to interact with several intracellular signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms. The drug modifies the biologic function of NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, SIRT1/PGC-1α, NLRP3, ERK, P38 MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, Nrf2, JNK, and other major molecules in the intracellular signaling network. It also regulates the expression of noncoding RNAs. Thereby, metformin can regulate metabolism, growth, proliferation, inflammation, tumorigenesis, and senescence. Additionally, metformin modulates immune response, autophagy, mitophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis and exerts epigenetic effects. Furthermore, metformin protects against oxidative stress and genomic instability, preserves telomere length, and prevents stem cell exhaustion. In this review, the protective effects of metformin on each disease will be discussed using the results of recent meta-analyses, clinical trials, and observational studies. Thereafter, it will be meticulously explained how metformin reprograms intracellular signaling pathways and alters molecular and cellular interactions to modify the clinical presentations of several diseases.

Curcumin Improves Epithelial Barrier Integrity of Caco-2 Monolayers by Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Subsequent Apoptosis

Curcumin is a natural polyphenol and is supposed to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiapoptotic properties. Although some studies have reported the therapeutic effects of curcumin on ulcerative colitis (UC), the specific mechanism remains unclear. An in vitro coculture model of Caco-2 and differentiated THP-1 cells was established. After administration of curcumin (10 μM), Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the protein levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins zonula occludens- (ZO-) 1 and claudin-1. Annexin V-APC/7-AAD assays and flow cytometry were conducted to assess Caco-2 cell apoptosis. The expression levels of oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress- (ERS-) related molecules were determined by Western blot analysis. Curcumin administration significantly upregulated ZO-1 and claudin-1 protein levels and reduced Caco-2 cell apoptosis. The protein levels of oxidative stress markers inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and γH2AX and ERS-induced apoptosis-related molecules C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and cleaved caspase-12 were significantly downregulated upon curcumin treatment. Furthermore, curcumin administration greatly blocked the protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase- (PERK-) eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α- (eIF2α-) activating transcription factor 4- (ATF4-) CHOP signaling pathway. Curcumin enhanced intestinal epithelial barrier integrity in the in vitro coculture model by upregulating TJ protein expressions and reducing intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis. The potential mechanisms may be suppression of ERS and subsequent apoptosis.

Safety and efficacy of a mucoadhesive phytomedication containing curcuminoids and Bidens pilosa L. extract in the prevention and treatment of radiochemotherapy-induced oral mucositis: Triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Oral mucositis (OM) is the significant complication of radio/chemotherapy treatment. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a mucoadhesive phytomedication containing curcuminoids and Bidens pilosa L. (FITOPROT) in the prevention/treatment of OM.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients were randomized into the group's intervention and placebo. Adverse effect assessment, OM grading, pain, and saliva collection were carried at the 1st, 15th, 21st, and final of radiotherapy (RT). Inflammatory salivary mediators were measured.

RESULTS

FITOPROT decreased the severity of OM from the 15th to the final RT, while the placebo showed an increase in the severity (p < 0.05). Intervention group had a lower number of patients with ulcerated OM at the final RT (p < 0.05). Phytomedication prevented increases of IL-8 levels and reduced the salivary nitrite during RT.

CONCLUSIONS

FITOPROT does not promote adverse effects, it appears to be effective at reducing the severity of OM, and it controls the concentration of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Cancer Therapy Challenge: It Is Time to Look in the "St. Patrick's Well" of the Nature

Cancer still remains a leading cause of death despite improvements in diagnosis, drug discovery and therapy approach. Therefore, there is a strong need to improve methodologies as well as to increase the number of approaches available. Natural compounds of different origins (i.e., from fungi, plants, microbes, etc.) represent an interesting approach for fighting cancer. In particular, synergistic strategies may represent an intriguing approach, combining natural compounds with classic chemotherapeutic drugs to increase therapeutic efficacy and lower the required drug concentrations. In this review, we focus primarily on those natural compounds utilized in synergistic approached to treating cancer, with particular attention to those compounds that have gained the most research interest.

Oral delivery of natural active small molecules by polymeric nanoparticles for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rapidly rising throughout the world. Although tremendous efforts have been made, limited therapeutics are available for IBD management. Natural active small molecules (NASMs), which are a gift of nature to humanity, have been widely used in the prevention and alleviation of IBD; they have numerous advantageous features, including excellent biocompatibility, pharmacological activity, and mass production potential. Oral route is the most common and acceptable approach for drug administration, but the clinical application of NASMs in IBD treatment via oral route has been seriously restricted by their inherent limitations such as high hydrophobicity, instability, and poor bioavailability. With the development of nanotechnology, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) have provided a promising platform that can efficiently encapsulate versatile NASMs, overcome multiple drug delivery barriers, and orally deliver the loaded NASMs to targeted tissues or cells while enhancing their stability and bioavailability. Thus, NPs can enhance the preventive and therapeutic effects of NASMs against IBD. Herein, we summarize the recent knowledge about polymeric matrix-based carriers, targeting ligands for drug delivery, and NASMs. We also discuss the current challenges and future developmental directions.

Aminocellulose - grafted polycaprolactone-coated core-shell nanoparticles alleviate the severity of ulcerative colitis: a novel adjuvant therapeutic approach

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic inflammatory condition of colorectal regions. Existing therapies for UC face grave lacunae including off-target and other harmful side effects, extensive first-pass metabolism, rapid clearance, limited or poor drug absorption and various other limitations, resulting in lower bioavailability. These conditions demand advanced delivery strategies to inflammatory colonic conditions so that drugs can counter stomach acid, avail protective strategies at this pH and selectively deliver drugs to the colon. Therefore, this approach was undertaken to develop and characterize nanoparticles for the delivery of drugs glycyrrhizic acid as well as budesonide in UC. Biocompatible and biodegradable aminocellulose-conjugated polycaprolactone containing budesonide was covered onto gelatinous nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with GA. Nanoparticles were prepared by the solvent evaporation technique, which showed particle size of ∼230 nm, spherical shape, almost smooth morphological characters under transmission, scanning and atomic force microscopy. These NPs also improved disease activities like occult blood in the stool, length of the colon and fecal properties. The nanoparticle therapy appreciably decreased colonic mast cellular infiltration, significantly maintained mucin protection, ameliorated histological features of the colon. Furthermore, markers of inflammation such as iNOS, COX-2, IL1-β, TNF-α, NO, and MPO were also appreciably ameliorated with the therapy of dual drug-loaded nanoparticles. Overall, these results establish that dual drug-loaded core-shell NPs exhibit superior therapeutic properties over the free or naïve forms of GA and budesonide in acute colon inflammation and present advantages that may be assigned to their ability to significantly inhibit colon inflammatory conditions.

Protective effects of curcumin against methotrexate-induced testicular damage in rats by suppression of the p38-MAPK and nuclear factor-kappa B pathways

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the possibility that curcumin (CMN) protects against methotrexate (MTX)-induced testicular damage by affecting the phospho-p38 (p-p38) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

Methods

Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. The control group was given an intragastric administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) daily for 14 days, the MTX group was given a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day, and the MTX+CMN group was given intragastric CMN (100 mg/kg/day, dissolved in DMSO) for 14 days and a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day. At the end of the experiment, all animals were sacrificed and the testicular tissues were removed for morphometry, histology, and immunohistochemistry. Body and testicular weights were measured.

Results

Body weights, seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelium height significantly decreased in the MTX group compared to the control group. Whereas, the number of histologically damaged seminiferous tubules and interstitial space width significantly increased in the MTX group. In addition, the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the immunoreactivity of NF-κB also increased in the MTX group compared to the control group. CMN improved loss of body weight, morphometric values, and histological damage due to MTX. CMN also reduced the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the NF-κB immunoreactivity.

Conclusion

CMN may reduce MTX-induced testicular damage by suppressing the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Curcumin and Its Modified Formulations on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): The Story So Far and Future Outlook

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing and remitting inflammatory disorder of the small intestine and colon. IBD includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), and it is a major factor for the development of colon cancer, referred to as colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The current treatment of IBD mainly includes the use of synthetic drugs and monoclonal antibodies. However, these drugs have side effects over long-term use, and the high relapse rate restricts their application. In the recent past, many studies had witnessed a surge in applying plant-derived products to manage various diseases, including IBD. Curcumin is a bioactive component derived from a rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa). Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies show that curcumin may interact with many cellular targets (NF-κB, JAKs/STATs, MAPKs, TNF-γ, IL-6, PPARγ, and TRPV1) and effectively reduce the progression of IBD with promising results. Thus, curcumin is a potential therapeutic agent for patients with IBD once it significantly decreases clinical relapse in patients with quiescent IBD. This review aims to summarize recent advances and provide a comprehensive picture of curcumin's effectiveness in IBD and offer our view on future research on curcumin in IBD treatment.

Dietary polyphenols suppress chronic inflammation by modulation of multiple inflammation-associated cell signaling pathways

The high failure rate of the reductionist approach to discover effective and safe drugs to treat chronic inflammatory diseases has led scientists to seek alternative ways. Recently, targeting cell signaling pathways has been utilized as an innovative approach to discover drug leads from natural products. Cell signaling mechanisms have been identified playing key role in diverse diseases by inducing proliferation, cell survival and apoptosis. Phytochemicals are known to be able to modulate the cellular and molecular networks which are associated to chronic diseases including cancer-associated inflammation. In this review, the roles of dietary polyphenols (apigenin, kaempferol, quercetin, curcumin, genistein, isoliquiritigenin, resveratrol and gallic acid) in modulating multiple inflammation-associated cell signaling networks are deliberated. Scientific databases on suppressive effects of the polyphenols on chronic inflammation via modulation of the pathways especially in the recent five years are gathered and critically analyzed. The polyphenols are able to modulate several inflammation-associated cell signaling pathways, namely nuclear factor-kappa β, mitogen activated protein kinases, Wnt/β-catenin and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and protein kinase B via selective actions on various components of the networks. The suppressive effects of the polyphenols on the multiple cell signaling pathways reveal their potential use in prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders. Understanding the mechanistic effects involved in modulation of the signaling pathways by the polyphenols is necessary for lead identification and development of future functional foods for prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.

A State of the Art of Antioxidant Properties of Curcuminoids in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases represent a set of pathologies characterized by an irreversible and progressive, and a loss of neuronal cells in specific areas of the brain. Oxidative phosphorylation is a source of energy production by which many cells, such as the neuronal cells, meet their energy needs. Dysregulations of oxidative phosphorylation induce oxidative stress, which plays a key role in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To date, for most neurodegenerative diseases, there are no resolute treatments, but only interventions capable of alleviating the symptoms or slowing the course of the disease. Therefore, effective neuroprotection strategies are needed. In recent years, natural products, such as curcuminoids, have been intensively explored and studied for their therapeutic potentials in several neurodegenerative diseases. Curcuminoids are, nutraceutical compouns, that owen several therapeutic properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. In this context, the aim of this review was to provide an overview of preclinical and clinical evidence aimed to illustrate the antioxidant effects of curcuminoids in neurodegenerative diseases. Promising results from preclinical studies encourage the use of curcuminoids for neurodegeneration prevention and treatment.

Polyphenols from food by-products: An alternative or complementary therapy to IBD conventional treatments

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are illnesses characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation and microbial dysbiosis that have emerged as a public health challenge worldwide. It comprises two main conditions: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Currently, conventional therapy to treat IBD are not free from side effects, such as liver and kidney toxicity, drug resistance, and allergic reactions. In view of this, there is growing research for alternative and complementary therapies that, in addition to acting in the prevention or the control of the disease, do not compromise the quality of life and health of individuals. In this sense, a growing body of evidence has confirmed the benefits of natural phenolic compounds in intestinal health. Phenolic compounds or polyphenols are molecules widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom (flowers, vegetables, leaves, and fruits), including plant materials remaining of the handling and food industrial processing, referred to in the scientific literature as by-products, food waste, or bagasse. Since by-products are low-cost, abundant, easily accessible, safe, and rich in bioactive compounds, it becomes an exciting option to extract, concentrate or isolate phenolic compounds to be posteriorly applied in the therapeutic approach of IBD. In this article, we have reviewed the main phenolic compounds present in various plants and by-products that have shown beneficial and/or promising effects in experimental pre-clinical, clinical, and in vitro research with IBD. In addition, we have mentioned and suggested several plants and by-products originated and produced in Latin America that could be part of future research as good sources of specific phenolic compounds to be applied in the prevention and development of alternative treatments for IBD. This review may offer a valuable reference for studies related to IBD administering phenolic compounds from natural, cheap, and easily accessible raw and undervalued materials.

Glochidion ellipticum Wight extracts ameliorate dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by modulating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signalling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Glochidion ellipticum Wight is a medicinal plant, rich in polyphenols, frequently used by the indigenous communities of Bangladesh and possess with multiple health benefits. It exerts anti-inflammatory and antidiarrheal properties, but the detailed chemical constituents are yet to be elucidated.

METHODS

Glochidion ellipticum extracts were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and then tested by both lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation of Raw 264.7 macrophage cells and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced acute colitis model. Blood serum was taken for fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-dextran) measurement and tissue samples were used to perform histology, RT-PCR and Western blotting.

KEY FINDINGS

The extracts could lower the levels of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines significantly in LPS induced macrophage cells. The extracts could also reduce disease activity index (DAI) score, restore antioxidants and pro-oxidants and improve macroscopic and microscopic features of colonic tissues in DSS induced mice. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in protein level was markedly diminished (up to 51.21% and 71.11%, respectively) in the treatment groups compared to the model group of colitic mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that G. ellipticum extracts ameliorate DSS colitis via blocking nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway, which make them to be potential candidates for further research against inflammation and colitis.

Ethanolic Garcinia mangostana extract and α-mangostin improve dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis via the suppression of inflammatory and oxidative responses in ICR mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disorder of the colon. Garcinia mangostana Linn. (GM) has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The effects of GM and its bioactive constituent α-mangostin on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC in mice were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult ICR mice (n = 63) were pretreated with ethanolic GM extract at 40, 200, and 1000 mg/kg/day (GM40, GM200, and GM1000), α-mangostin at 30 mg/kg/day, or sulfasalazine at 100 mg/kg/day (SA) for 7 consecutive days. On days 4-7, UC was induced in the mice by the oral administration of DSS (40 kDa, 6 g/kg/day), while control mice received distilled water. The UC disease activity index (DAI) and histological changes were recorded. The activities of myeloperoxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase, and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined. The mRNA expression of inflammatory related genes including proinflammatory cytokine Tnf-α, Toll-like receptor (Tlr-2), adhesion molecules (Icam-1 and Vcam-1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein (Mcp-1) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Treatment with GM or α-mangostin decreased the UC DAI and protected against colon shortening and spleen and kidney enlargement. GM and α-mangostin prevented histological damage, reduced mast cell infiltration in the colon, and decreased myeloperoxidase activity. GM and α-mangostin increased catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and decreased ROS, NO, and MDA production. GM downregulated mRNA expression of Tnf-α, Tlr-2, Icam-1, Vcam-1, and Mcp-1.

CONCLUSIONS

GM and α-mangostin attenuated the severity of DSS-induced UC via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Therefore, GM is a promising candidate for development into a novel therapeutic agent for UC.

The Use of Curcumin for the Treatment of Renal Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the significant causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, which could develop and progress to end-stage renal disease. Increased inflammation and reduced antioxidant capacity commonly occur in CKD and hemodialysis patients. Curcumin is a natural bioactive compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This systematic review was undertaken with the main aim of assessing the effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation on renal diseases based on clinical trials. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar from inception up to April 6, 2020 to identify clinical trials assessing the effects of curcumin or turmeric alone, or in combination with other herbs or nutrients on renal diseases. Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria. These randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprised 631 patients with either chronic kidney diseases (CKD), hemodialysis, diabetic proteinuria and nephropathy, and lupus nephritis. Curcumin/turmeric supplementation had favorable effects on renal diseases, particularly in terms of inflammation and oxidative stress. However, with the exception for proteinuria, their impact on clinical parameters, such as blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and serum albumin, was weak and not significant. No serious adverse effects were reported following curcumin/turmeric supplementation. Within the limitations of this review, it can be concluded that curcumin/turmeric supplementation might have some beneficial effects on inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters of patients but no considerable positive impact on clinical outcomes of kidney diseases, apart from proteinuria.

Targeting Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases by Natural Products: A Novel Therapeutic Approach for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

An increase in the prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) as a multifactorial intestinal chronic inflammation as well as the absence of a certain cure, has created an innovative era in the management of IBD by molecule/pathway-based anti-inflammatory approaches. There are credible documentations that demonstrate Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) acts as IBD regulator. Upon the activation of MAPK signalling pathway, the transcription and expression of various encoding inflammatory molecules implicated in IBD are altered, thereby exacerbating the inflammation development. The current pharmacological management of IBD, including drug and biological therapies are expensive, possess temporary relief and some adverse effects. In this context, a variety of dietary fruits or medicinal herbs have received worldwide attention versus the development of IBD. Infact, natural ingredients, such as Flavaglines, Fisetin, Myricitrin, Cardamonin, Curcumin, Octacosanol and Mangiferin possess protective and therapeutic effects against IBD via modulation of different segments of MAPK signaling pathway. This review paper calls attention to the role of MAPK signaling triggered by natural products in the prevention and treatment of IBD.

Calcium and potassium channels are involved in curcumin relaxant effect on tracheal smooth muscles

Context: Curcumin, the active component of Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), exhibits a wide variety of biological activities including vasodilation and anti-inflammation.Objective: The relaxant effect of curcumin in tracheal smooth muscle (TSM) was not examined so far, thus, this study was designed to assess the relaxant effect of curcumin on rat TSM and examine the underlying mechanism(s) responsible for this effect.Materials and methods: TSM was contracted by KCl (60 mM) or methacholine (10 μM), and cumulative concentrations of curcumin (12.5, 25, 50, and 100 mg/mL) or theophylline (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mM, as positive control) were added to organ bath. The relaxant effect of curcumin was examined in non-incubated or incubated tissues with atropine (1 μM), chlorpheniramine (1 μM), indomethacin (1 μM), and papaverine (100 μM).Results: In non-incubated TSM, curcumin showed significant relaxant effects on KCl-induced contraction in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.001 for all concentrations). The relaxant effects of curcumin 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/mL were significantly lower in atropine-incubated tissue compared to non-incubated TSM (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). A significant difference was observed in EC₅₀ between atropine-incubated (48.10 ± 2.55) and non-incubated (41.65 ± 1.81) tissues (p < 0.05). Theophylline showed a significant relaxant effect on both KCl and methacholine-induced contraction in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.001 for all cases).Conclusions: The results indicated a relatively potent relaxant effect of curcumin on TSM, which was less marked than the effect of theophylline. Calcium channel blocking and/or potassium channel opening properties of curcumin may be responsible for TSM relaxation.