Protective effect of marine mangrove Rhizophora apiculata on acetic acid induced experimental colitis by regulating anti-oxidant enzymes, inflammatory mediators and nuclear factor-kappa B subunits

Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Càmbess.) Eichler leaves aqueous extract improves colon inflammation through mucogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in TNBS- induced IBD rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Cambess.) Eichler, a member of the Salicaceae family, holds a prominent place in traditional medicine across various cultures due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized different parts of the plant, including leaves, bark, and roots, to address a wide array of health conditions. Traditional uses of C. sylvestris var. lingua encompasses the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, wound healing, inflammation, and stomach ulcers. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated the plant's antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. This signifies the first scientific validation report for C. sylvestris var. lingua regarding its effectiveness against ulcerative colitis. The report aims to affirm the traditional use of this plant through pre-clinical experiments.

AIM OF THE RESEARCH

This work uses an aqueous extract from C. sylvestris var. lingua leaves (AECs) to evaluate the acute anti-ulcerative colitis efficacy in rat and HT-29 (human colorectal cancer cell line) models.

METHODS

To determine the secondary metabolites of AECs, liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) study was carried out. 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS, 30 mg/0.25 mL EtOH 30% v/v) was used as an enema to cause acute colitis. Three days were spent giving the C. sylvestris var. lingua extract orally by gavage at dosages of 3, 30, and 300 mg/kg. The same route was used to deliver distilled water to the vehicle and naïve groups. After the animals were sacrificed on the fourth day, intestinal tissues were taken for histological examination and evaluation of biochemical tests such as those measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite/nitrate, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Additionally, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 10 (IL-10), were conducted on the intestinal tissues. Additionally, an MTT assay was used to evaluate the effect of AECs on the viability of HT-29 cells. Additionally, a molecular docking study was carried out to compare some potential target proteins with identified chemicals found in AECs.

RESULTS

LC-DAD analysis identified five compounds (caffeic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin) in AECs. Pre-administration of AECs (3; 30; 300 mg/kg) and mesalazine (500 mg/kg) reduced macroscopic scores (55%, 47%, 45%, and 52%, p < 0.001) and ulcerated areas (70.3%, 70.5%, 57%, and 56%, p < 0.001), respectively. It also increased SOD, GSH, and CAT activities (p < 0.01), while decreasing MDA (p < 0.001), nitrite/nitrate (p < 0.05), and MPO (p < 0.001) activities compared to the colitis group. Concerning inflammatory markers, significant modulations were observed: AECs (3, 30, and 300 mg/kg) lowered levels of IL-1β and TNF-α (p < 0.001) and increased IL-10 levels (p < 0.001) compared to the colitis groups. The viability of HT-29 cells was suppressed by AECs with an IC50 of 195.90 ± 0.01 μg/mL (48 h). During the molecular docking analysis, quercetin, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid demonstrated consistent binding affinities, forming stable interactions with the 3w3l (TLR8) and the 3ds6 (MAPK14) complexes.

CONCLUSION

These results imply that the intestinal mucogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of the C. sylvestris var. lingua leaf extract may be involved in its therapeutic actions for ulcerative colitis. The results of the in silico study point to the possibility of quercetin and ellagic acid interacting with P38 and TLR8, respectively, in a beneficial way.

Tiron ameliorates acetic acid-induced colitis in rats: Role of TGF-β/EGFR/PI3K/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC), an ongoing inflammatory disorder of the colon, is marked by persistent mucosal surface irritation extending from the rectum to the near-proximal colon. Tiron is a synthetic analogue of vitamin E which is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in various animal models, so the goal of this study was to find out whether Tiron had any preventive impacts on UC inflicted by acetic acid (A.A) exposure in rats.

METHOD

Tiron (235 and 470 mg/kg) was administered intra-peritoneally for 2 weeks, and A.A (2 ml, 3 % v/v) was injected intra-rectally to cause colitis. Colon tissues and blood samples were then collected for measurement of various inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers.

RESULTS

Tiron administration significantly diminished lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), colon weight, and the weight/length ratio of the colon as compared to A.A-injected rats. Additionally, Tiron attenuated oxidative stress biomarkers. Tiron also enforced the levels of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and trefoil factor-3 (TFF-3), while it greatly lowered the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and transforming growth factor-1(TGF-β1), phosphorylated epidermal growth factor receptor (P-EGFR), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (AKT) expression in colonic cellular structures. Furthermore, colonichistopathologic damages, revealed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Alcian Blue stain, were significantly decreased upon Tiron administration.

CONCLUSION

Tiron prevented A.A-induced colitis in rats via modulating inflammatory pathway TGF-β1/P-EGFR/PI3K/AKT/NF-κB, alongside managing the oxidant/antioxidant equilibrium, and boosting the reliability of the intestinal barrier.

Donepezil halts acetic acid-induced experimental colitis in rats and its associated cognitive impairment through regulating inflammatory/oxidative/apoptotic cascades: An add-on to its anti-dementia activity

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a persistent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that is regarded as a risk factor for cognitive impairment. Donepezil (DON), a centrally acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI), is approved for the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We aimed to scrutinize the impact of DON on acetic acid (AA)-induced UC in rats and to evaluate its ability to attenuate inflammatory response, oxidative strain, and apoptosis in this model and its associated cognitive deficits. Rats were categorized into: normal, DON, AA, and AA + DON groups. DON (5 mg/kg/day) was administered orally for 14 days either alone or beginning with the day of UC induction. Colitis was evoked by a single transrectal injection of 1 ml of 4 % acetic acid. Results revealed that DON significantly improved the behavioral abnormalities with the mitigation of inflammation, apoptosis, and histopathological changes in the hippocampi of the colitis group. Moreover, DON significantly alleviated the macroscopic and microscopic changes associated with colitis. Interestingly, DON inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines via suppression of AA-induced activation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in the colon, along with serum IL-1β. DON inhibited colon lipid peroxidation, restored the antioxidants with a significant amelioration of the degree of neutrophil infiltration, and repressed colitis-induced matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) production. Furthermore, DON decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 protein expressions. Eventually, in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, DON suppressed nitric oxide (NO) release, demonstrating the ability of DON to significantly curtail inflammation in immune cells. Taken together, DON ameliorated experimental colitis and its linked cognitive dysfunction, possibly via its antioxidant effect and modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis. Thereby, DON could be a therapeutic nominee for UC and associated neurological disorders.

Apigenin and Exposure to Low Dose Gamma Radiation Ameliorate Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease involving chronic and recurring colon inflammation. Current management protocols are limited by adverse effects or short-term symptomatic relief. We aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic prospect of low dose gamma (γ) irradiation or apigenin treatment in acetic acid-induced UC in rats. Induction of UC was carried out by installation of acetic acid intra-rectally. One hour post-induction, rats received a sole dose of γ-radiation (0.5 Gray) or were treated with apigenin (3 mg/kg/day, peroral) for 7 successive days. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of both agents were assessed via determination of colon malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), total nitrate/nitrite (NOx), mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) contents as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Body weight (BW), colon weight/length (W/L) ratio, disease activity index (DAI), and histopathological changes were evaluated. Gamma irradiation and apigenin significantly ameliorated the acetic acid-induced biochemical and histopathological changes. Both therapeutic approaches significantly restored colon contents of the investigated biomarkers. They modulated BW, colon W/L ratio and DAI. This study proposes low dose γ-irradiation as a new therapeutic candidate for the management of UC. We also concluded that apigenin exhibited therapeutic benefits in UC management.

Bunium persicum essential oil reduced acetic acid-induced rat colitis through suppression of NF-κB pathway

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of B. persicum essential oil on colonic inflammation and the role of suppression of NF-κB pathway in rat colitis induced by acetic acid solution.

Materials and Methods:

Induction of acute colitis was done by intra-luminal instillation of 2 ml of acetic acid (4%) diluted in normal saline. Two hours after colitis induction, 0.2% tween 80 in normal saline, prednisolone (4 mg/kg) or B. persicum essential oil (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) were administered to the rats orally and continued for 5 consecutive days. The severity of macroscopic and microscopic damages was assessed. Myeloperoxidase and TNF-α activity was evaluated by biochemical analysis and ELISA respectively and protein expression of p-NF-κB was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results:

Prednisolone and B. persicum essential oil (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) decreased macroscopic and microscopic injuries compared to the acetic acid group. On the other hand, prednisolone and B. persicum essential oil (200 and 400 mg/kg) decreased the activity of MPO and TNF-α in the colon tissue of rats compared with the acetic acid group. Furthermore, they suppressed the expression of p-NF-κB protein induced by acetic acid administration.

Conclusion:

It is suggested that the anti-inflammatory effect of B. persicum essential oil on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats may be due to the suppression of NF-κB pathway.

Targeting NF-κB mediated cell signaling pathway and inflammatory mediators by 1,2-diazole in A549 cells in vitro

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1,2-Diazole suppresses TNF-α induced MMP-2 expression.

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1,2-Diazole abrogate NF-κB activation and regulate cytokines.

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It exhibits potent in vitro anticancer effect against A549 cells.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths globally. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of 1,2-diazole (pyrazole) as an anti-cancer drug on human non-small cell lung carcinoma A549 cells. We attempt to examine the expression level of pro-inflammatory proteins such as TNF-α, NF-κB-p65, MMP-2 and E-Cadherin which are commonly associated with an inflammatory response in epithelial cells and apoptosis in A549 cells. The LPS-induced cytokines and inflammatory mediators include TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS and COX-2 levels in A549 cells and the effect of pyrazole was studied. The present study reveals that, pyrazole inhibits A549 cells by suppressing TNF-α induced MMP-2 expression, thereby inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB-p65. Pyrazole significantly up-regulate the E-cadherin level and down-regulated MMP-2 expression that could probably preventing A549 cancer cells to invade. The study further substantiated the anti-cancer property of pyrazole by regulating the above mentioned level of LPS-induced cytokines and inflammatory mediators. The observations of the present study open a possibility for the development of an effective therapeutic agent that targets inflammatory and signaling pathway mediators to challenge human non-small cell lung carcinoma.

Periplaneta americana extract promotes intestinal mucosa repair of ulcerative colitis in rat

PURPOSE

To investigate the mechanism of Periplaneta americana extract promoting intestinal mucosal repair of OXZ-induced colitis in rat.

METHODS

All experiments used an equal number of male and female SD rats (n=48). We injected OXZ into the colon to induce UC rat model. To determine the optimal concentration of P. Americana's extract (PA-40), it was classified into low (L), medium (M), and high (H) doses. After OXZ treatment, each drug was administered by enema for 7 consecutive days. Rats were divided into the following 6 groups: (1) Saline treatment group (NC), (2) OXZ treatment UC model group (MC), (3) OXZ + budesonide group (BUN), (4) OXZ + PA-40 L group, (5) OXZ + PA-40 M group, (6) OXZ + PA-40 H group. Disease activity index (DAI) scores, colon length, histopathological score, serum cytokine level (IL-4, IL-10, iNOS, tNOS), and amount of MPO, EGF, IL-13 in colonic mucosa were measured.

RESULTS

PA treatment had a significant healing effect on the OXZ-colitis model and significantly reduced the lesioned area, especially in the PA-40H groups. PA treatment did not alter the expression of IL-10 and MPO level, but increased EGF (epidermal growth factor) and decrease IL-13 in the colonic tissue. PA inhibited the rise of NOSs (nitric oxide synthase) and decreased the serum IL-4 level.

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest that Periplaneta americana extract may be a potential compound for the treatment of colonic lesions. The mechanism may be related to inhibiting the secretion of IL-13 and promoting the formation of EGF.

Interventions of natural and synthetic agents in inflammatory bowel disease, modulation of nitric oxide pathways

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The elevated levels of nitric oxide (NO) in serum and affected tissues; mainly synthesized by the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) enzyme; can exacerbate GI inflammation and is one of the major biomarkers of GI inflammation. Various natural and synthetic agents are able to ameliorate GI inflammation and decrease iNOS expression to the extent comparable with some IBD drugs. Thereby, the purpose of this study was to gather a list of natural or synthetic mediators capable of modulating IBD through the NO pathway. Electronic databases including Google Scholar and PubMed were searched from 1980 to May 2018. We found that polyphenols and particularly flavonoids are able to markedly attenuate NO production and iNOS expression through the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Prebiotics and probiotics can also alter the GI microbiota and reduce NO expression in IBD models through a broad array of mechanisms. A number of synthetic molecules have been found to suppress NO expression either dependent on the NF-κB signaling pathway (i.e., dexamethasone, pioglitazone, tropisetron) or independent from this pathway (i.e., nicotine, prednisolone, celecoxib, β-adrenoceptor antagonists). Co-administration of natural and synthetic agents can affect the tissue level of NO and may improve IBD symptoms mainly by modulating the Toll like receptor-4 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Arthrocen, an avocado-soy unsaponifiable agent, improves acetic acid-induced colitis in rat by inhibition of NF-kB signaling pathway

The goal of the current study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of Arthrocen against acetic acid-induced colitis in rats. Acute inflammation was produced through intrarectal administration of 2 ml diluted acetic acid (4%) solution. All interventions were carried out for 5 days after colitis induction. Arthrocen was administered orally at doses of 30, 60, and 120 mg kg^-1  day^-1 . Then, macroscopic and microscopic studies were performed. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) activity were measured by biochemical and ELISA methods, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was done to investigate the expression of pNF-κB. The results of this study demonstrated that Arthrocen reduced macroscopic and microscopic damage compared to the acetic acid group. Furthermore, Arthrocen decreased the activity of MPO and TNF-α as well as the protein expression of pNF-kB in rat colon tissue. The results of the current study revealed the anti-inflammatory activity of Arthrocen in acetic acid mediated colon inflammation through suppressing the NF-κB pathway. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune-mediated chronic relapsing disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) characterized by chronic bowel inflammation. A plant-based dietary supplement containing avocado and soy unsaponifiable extracts in a ratio of 1:2 is known as Arthrocen. Arthrocen can be used as a complementary drug beside current drugs in clinical trials for the treatment of IBD.

Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Global Distribution of Mangroves-A Comprehensive Review

Mangroves are ecologically important plants in marine habitats that occupy the coastlines of many countries. In addition to their key ecological importance, various parts of mangroves are widely used in folklore medicine and claimed to effectively manage a panoply of human pathologies. To date, no comprehensive attempt has been made to compile and critically analyze the published literature in light of its ethnopharmacological uses. This review aims to provide a comprehensive account of the morphological characteristics, ethnobotany, global distribution, taxonomy, ethnopharmacology, phytochemical profiles, and pharmacological activities of traditionally used mangroves. Out of 84 mangrove species, only 27 species were found to be traditionally used, however not all of them are pharmacologically validated. The most common pharmacological activities reported were antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. Mangroves traditionally reported against ulcers have not been extensively validated for possible pharmacological properties. Terpenoids, tannins, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins were the main classes of phytochemicals isolated from mangroves. Given that mangroves have huge potential for a wide array of medicinal products and drug discovery to prevent and treat many diseases, there is a dire need for careful investigations substantiated with accurate scientific and clinical evidence to ensure safety and efficient use of these plants and validate their pharmacological properties and toxicity.

Thymol reduces acetic acid-induced inflammatory response through inhibition of NF-kB signaling pathway in rat colon tissue

AIM

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of thymol in acetic acid-induced rat colitis through inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

METHODS

Colitis was induced by intra-rectal administration of 2 mL of diluted acetic acid (4%) solution using a flexible plastic rubber catheter in Wistar rats. Colitis was induced on the first day and all treatments were applied 5 days after the induction of colitis. Thymol was dissolved in 0.2% tween 80 in saline and administered orally at doses of 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg per day. Macroscopic and histopathologic investigations were done. The expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. The protein expression level of pNF-κB p65 was measured by the Western blot technique.

RESULTS

Treatment with thymol reduced mucosal and histological damages compared to the acetic acid group. Our results showed that thymol markedly inhibited the production of MPO and TNF-α in the colon tissue of the acetic acid-induced group. In addition, thymol decreased acetic acid-induced up-regulation of pNFκB p65 protein.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggest that thymol exerts an anti-inflammatory effect in acetic acid-induced rat colitis by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and downregulating TNF-α and MPO expressions.

Targeting apoptosis by 1,2-diazole through regulation of EGFR, Bcl-2 and CDK-2 mediated signaling pathway in human non-small cell lung carcinoma A549 cells

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), a heterogeneous class of tumors, represents approximately 85% of all new lung cancer diagnosis. Conventional treatment options have limited efficacy because most cases are in the advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. The present study evaluates the anti-cancer activity of 1,2-diazole (pyrazole), a natural compound from mangrove plant Rhizophora apiculata (R.apiculata) on A549 lung carcinoma cells. In the present study the anti-cancer mechanism of pyrazole, was examined by the expression level of proteins Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Cyclin-dependent kinase-2 (CDK-2) which are commonly associated with the cell signaling pathways that control cell survival and apoptosis, that could facilitate to develop a novel target and effective treatment approach for patients with NSCLC. Pyrazole significantly induced cell cycle arrest and initiated apoptosis through inhibition of downstream components of EGFR tyrosine kinase pathway. Pyrazole disrupts the mitochondrial membrane potential and modulated the protein levels of Bax and Bcl-2 which could probably lead to caspase-3 activation. Furthermore, Pyrazole suppresses the expression of CDK-2 resulting in cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and in the G1-S phase transition. Taken together, the current study provides new insight in to the precise molecular mechanisms responsible for the anti-cancer activity of pyrazole in NSCLC, A549 cells. The study opens an avenue for development of a natural compound as a potential therapeutic agent which could target cell signaling pathways to combat human NSCLC.

Foeniculum vulgare essential oil ameliorates acetic acid-induced colitis in rats through the inhibition of NF-kB pathway

AIM

The aim of the present study is to investigate the protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare essential oil on intestinal inflammation through the inhibition of NF-kB pathway in acetic acid-induced rat colitis.

METHODS

Acute colitis was induced by intra-rectal administration of 2 mL of diluted acetic acid (4%) solution. Two hours after the induction of colitis, 0.2% tween 80 in normal saline, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) and F. vulgare essential oil (100, 200, 400 mg/kg) were administered to the animals by oral gavage and continued for 5 consecutive days. Assessment of macroscopic and microscopic lesions was done. MPO activity was evaluated by biochemical method. Furthermore, TNF-α activity was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and the expression level of p-NF-kB p65 protein was measured by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Dexamethasone and F. vulgare essential oil (200, 400 mg/kg) reduced the macroscopic and microscopic lesions compared to the acetic acid group (p < 0.01, p < 0.001). In addition, these agents decreased the activity of MPO (p < 0.01, p < 0.001) and the expression of TNF-α positive cells (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001) in the colon tissue compared to acetic acid group. Furthermore, they inhibited acetic acid-induced expression of p-NF-kB p65 protein (p < 0.05, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

It is proposed that the anti-inflammatory activity of F. vulgare essential oil on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats may involve the inhibition of NF-kB pathway.

Pathomechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Potential Antioxidant Therapies

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease whose incidence has risen worldwide in recent years. Accumulating evidence shows that oxidative stress plays an essential role in the pathogenesis and progression of IBD. This review highlights the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense mechanisms in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the involvement of oxidative stress signaling in the initiation and progression of IBD and its relationships with genetic susceptibility and the mucosal immune response. In addition, potential therapeutic strategies for IBD that target oxidative stress signaling are reviewed and discussed. Though substantial progress has been made in understanding the role of oxidative stress in IBD in humans and experimental animals, the underlying mechanisms are still not well defined. Thus, further studies are needed to validate how oxidative stress signaling is involved in and contributes to the development of IBD.

壳寡糖改善TNBS/乙醇法诱导的小鼠溃疡性结肠炎

目的

观察壳寡糖(chitosan oligosaccharide, COS)对2,4,6一三硝基苯磺酸(2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid, TNBS)/乙醇法诱导的小鼠溃疡性结肠炎(ulcerative colitis, UC)的改善作用, 探讨其治疗UC的作用机制.

方法

采用TNBS/乙醇法制备UC小鼠模型, 小鼠随机分3组: 正常组、模型组、COS组. 造模成功后给予干预治疗, 分别在12、24 h处死全部小鼠, 进行一般状态、形态及组织学观察(肉眼观察、显微镜观察); 应用Western blot检测COS组小鼠于COS处理0、12、24 h后对核因子-κB(nuclear factor-κB, NF-κB)表达的影响.

结果

COS组小鼠一般状态较模型组好转. 模型组小鼠结肠黏膜组织损伤肉眼观积分较正常组明显增高(12 h组: 4.5±0.5 vs 0; 24 h组: 4.67±0.47 vs 0), 差异有统计学意义(P<0.05). COS组肉眼积分较模型组明显下降(12 h组: 2.67±0.47 vs 4.5±0.5; 24 h组: 1.83±0.69 vs 4.67±0.47), 差异有统计学意义(P<0.05). COS 12 h组肉眼积分较24 h组差异不显著(2.67±0.47 vs 1.83±0.69), 无统计学意义(P>0.05). 模型组小鼠结肠黏膜组织病理积分较正常组明显升高(12 h组: 8.00±0.63 vs 0; 24 h组: 8.17±0.75 vs 0), 差异有统计学意义(P<0.05). COS组小鼠结肠组织病理积分较模型组明显下降(12 h组: 3.67±0.52 vs 8.00±0.63; 24 h组: 3.83±0.41 vs 8.17±0.75), 差异有统计学意义(P<0.05). COS 12 h组小鼠结肠组织病理积分与COS 24 h组比较差异不显著(3.67±0.52 vs 3.83±0.41), 无统计学意义(P>0.05). COS组小鼠于COS处理12、24 h后NF-κB表达下调, 表明COS抑制NF-κB表达.

结论

COS通过抑制NF-κB的表达对TNBS/乙醇法诱导的UC小鼠有改善作用.

Beneficial properties of Passiflora caerulea on experimental colitis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Passiflora caerulea L. (Passifloraceae) is a medicinal plant commonly used in traditional medicine in South America for different pathologies associated with the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present study, the activity of the ethanolic extract of P. caerulea on an experimental colitis model related to inflammatory bowel disease has been investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Colitis was induced by intracolonic instillation of a 2mL of 4% (v/v) acetic acid solution. Macroscopic scoring, myeloperoxidase activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels were evaluated on isolated colon mucosae. The histopathological studies of colon mucosae were performed by hematoxylin and eosin and Alcian blue staining. Diarrhoea was induced by the administration of castor oil (0.3mL/mouse). The first watery defecation time, the total amount of solid, semi-solid and watery stools and the amount of watery stools were determined. The effect of the extract on a cumulative concentration-response curve of acetylcholine and CaCl₂ on isolated rat jejunum was also evaluated. The phytochemical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The extract (250mg/kg, p.o.) induced a significant reduction in the weight/length ratio, the macroscopic lesion score, TBARS levels and the microscopic tissue damage when compared with the acetic acid-treated group of animals. P. caerulea (125mg/kg, p.o.) decreased significantly the amount of watery stools in the castor oil-induced-diarrhoea model. Moreover, the P. caerulea extract antagonized the jejunum contractions induced by Ach (E_max for 0.3mg/mL: 76.25%; E_max for 1mg/mL: 63.47%; E_max for 3mg/mL: 42.01%) and CaCl₂ (E_max for 0.3mg/mL: 75.69%; E_max for1 mg/mL: 56.1%; E_max for 3mg/mL: 53.4%). Isoorientin, vitexin, isovitexin, and vicenin-2 were identified in the extract.

CONCLUSION

P. caerulea showed anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrhoeal and spasmolityc activities on preclinical models.

Hydrogen sulfide from a NaHS source attenuates dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced inflammation via inhibiting nuclear factor-κB

This study investigated the alleviating effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), derived from sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), on inflammation induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in both in vivo and in vitro models. We found that NaHS injection markedly decreased rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and histological injury in DSS-challenged mice. NaHS (20 μmol/L) reversed DSS-induced inhibition in cell viability in Caco-2 cells and alleviated pro-inflammation cytokine expression in vivo and in vitro, indicating an anti-inflammatory function for H2S. It was also found that H2S may regulate cytokine expression by inhibiting the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that H2S alleviated DSS-induced inflammation in vivo and in vitro and that the signal mechanism might be associated with the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Inflammatory bowel disease: exploring gut pathophysiology for novel therapeutic targets

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are the 2 major phenotypes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which are influenced by a complex interplay of immunological and genetic elements, though the precise etiology still remains unknown. With IBD developing into a globally prevailing disease, there is a need to explore new targets and a thorough understanding of the pathophysiological differences between the healthy and diseased gut could unearth new therapeutic opportunities. In this review, we provide an overview of the major aspects of IBD pathogenesis and thereafter present a comprehensive analysis of the gut pathophysiology leading to a discussion on some of the most promising targets and biologic therapies currently being explored. These include various gut proteins (CXCL-10, GATA-3, NKG2D, CD98, microRNAs), immune cells recruited to the gut (mast cells, eosinophils, toll-like receptors 2, 4), dysregulated proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6, -13, -18, -21), and commensal microbiota (probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation). We also evaluate some of the emerging nonconventional therapies being explored in IBD treatment focusing on the latest developments in stem cell research, oral targeting of the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, novel anti-inflammatory signaling pathway targeting, adenosine deaminase inhibition, and the beneficial effects of antioxidant and nutraceutical therapies. In addition, we highlight the growth of biologics and their targets in IBD by providing information on the preclinical and clinical development of over 60 biopharmaceuticals representing the state of the art in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease drug development.

Protective Effect of Cod (Gadus macrocephalus) Skin Collagen Peptides on Acetic Acid-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

This research was performed to explore the protective effect of cod skin collagen peptides (CCP) on gastric ulcer induced by acetic acid. The CCP were fractionated into low molecular CCP (LMCCP, Mw < 3 kDa) and high molecular CCP (HMCCP, Mw > 3 kDa). In HMCCP and LMCCP, glycine of accounted for about one-third of the total amino acids without cysteine and tryptophan, and hydrophobic amino acids accounted for about 50%. After 21 d CCP treatment (60 or 300 mg/kg, p.o./daily), the healing effects on acetic acid-induced gastric ulcers were evaluated by macroscopic measure, microscopic measure, and immune histochemistry. Moreover, the expression levels of the growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), and the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was detected. The results showed that both LMCCP and HMCCP could significantly decrease the ulcer areas and promote the healing of the lesions. They also could improve the levels of hexosamine, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and reduce the content of malondialdehyde and inducible nitric oxide synthase. In addition, the expression level of TGFβ1 gene and HSP70 mRNA was significantly improved by the treatment. It suggested that CCP could be able to improve symptoms of gastric ulcer and probably be used in the treatment of gastric ulcer.

Anticoccidial activities of Chitosan on Eimeria papillata-infected mice

Eimeria spp. multiply within the intestinal tract causing severe inflammatory responses. Chitosan (CS), meanwhile, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory activities in different experimental models. Here, we investigated the effect of CS on the outcome of inflammation caused by Eimeria papillata in the mouse intestine. Investigations were undertaken into the oocyst output in feces and developmental stages and goblet cells in intestinal tissue. Assays for lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were also performed. T cells in intestinal tissue were counted using immunohistochemistry while total IgA in serum or intestinal wash was assayed using ELISA. In addition, mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), interleukin (IL)-10, and IL-4 were detected using real-time PCR. The data indicated a reduction in both oocyst output and in the number of parasite developmental stages following CS treatment, while the goblet cell hypoplasia in infected mice was also inhibited. CS decreased lipid peroxidation, NO, and MPO but did not alter the T cell count or IgA levels in comparison to the infected group. The expression of TNF-α and TGF-β decreased but IL-10 and IL-4 increased after CS treatment in comparison to the non-treated infected group. In conclusion, CS showed anti-inflammatory and protective effects against E. papillata infection.

Protective Effect of Ocimum basilicum Essential Oil Against Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats

Ocimum basilicum L has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in Iran. This study investigates the ameliorative effect of Ocimum basilicum essential oil on an acetic acid-induced colitis model in rats. Ocimum basilicum essential oil with 2 doses (200 and 400 μL/kg) significantly ameliorated wet weight/length ratio of colonic tissue compared to the control group. Higher doses of essential oil (200 and 400 μL/kg) significantly reduced ulcer severity, ulcer area, and ulcer index. On the other hand, histological examination revealed the diminution of total colitis index as a marker for inflammatory cell infiltration in the colonic segments of rats treated with Ocimum basilicum essential oil (200 and 400 μL/kg). The increased level of myeloperoxidase was significantly decreased after the treatment with the essential oil (200 and 400 μL/kg). These results suggest that Ocimum basilicum exhibits protective effect against acetic acid-induced colitis.

Intraperitoneal administration of butyrate prevents the severity of acetic acid colitis in rats

Intrarectal infusion of butyrate improves colorectal disorders including ulcerative colitis (UC). However, it is not established whether systemically administered butyrate benefits such patients. The current study aimed at exploring and comparing the potential of intraperitoneally, intrarectally, and orally administered butyrate against acetic acid (AA)-induced UC in rats. Intrarectal administration of 2 ml of 50% AA was done after or without prior treatment of rats for 7 consecutive days with 100 mg/kg sodium butyrate (SB) intraperitoneally, intrarectally, or orally. Rats were sacrificed after 48 h of AA-treatment. Subsequently, colon sections were processed routinely for histopathological examination. We clinically observed diarrhea, loose stools, and hemoccult-positive stools, and histologically, epithelial loss and ulceration, crypt damage, goblet cell depletion, hemorrhage, and mucosal infiltration of inflammatory cells. The changes were significantly reduced by intraperitoneal, intrarectal, or oral butyrate, with intraperitoneal butyrate exhibiting the highest potency. It is concluded that intraperitoneal administration of butyrate abrogates the lesions of AA-induced UC and its potency surpasses that of intrarectal or oral butyrate.

Antioxidant therapy for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: Does it work?

Oxidative stress (OS) is considered as one of the etiologic factors involved in several signals and symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that include diarrhea, toxic megacolon and abdominal pain. This systematic review discusses approaches, challenges and perspectives into the use of nontraditional antioxidant therapy on IBD, including natural and synthetic compounds in both human and animal models. One hundred and thirty four papers were identified, of which only four were evaluated in humans. Some of the challenges identified in this review can shed light on this fact: lack of standardization of OS biomarkers, absence of safety data and clinical trials for the chemicals and biological molecules, as well as the fact that most of the compounds were not repeatedly tested in several situations, including acute and chronic colitis. This review hopes to stimulate researchers to become more involved in this fruitful area, to warrant investigation of novel, alternative and efficacious antioxidant-based therapies.

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Major biomarkers used for evaluation of antioxidant therapy were MPO, TBARS/MDA and glutathione levels.

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Challenges were identified for the yet poor use of antioxidant therapy in IBD.

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This review stimulates the investigation of alternative and efficacious antioxidant therapies.

Challenges and opportunities in the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory destructive disease of the large intestine occurred usually in the rectum and lower part of the colon as well as the entire colon. Drug therapy is not the only choice for UC treatment and medical management should be as a comprehensive whole. Many synthetic drugs are available for the treatment of UC like 5-aminosalicylic acid, oral or systemic corticosteroids, immunomodulator, etc. but these drugs are associated with many serious side effects after long term use or have certain disadvantage or not suitable for the use in some patients. In short synthetic drugs have many disadvantages and for this reason effective and safe alternative drug treatment for the UC is the challenge. Herbal drugs are found to be very promising results of the treatment of UC and enzymatic level. Researchers explored many herbal drugs for the treatment and even many more may found effective in the treatment of UC. At this point we feel herbal medicine is the better alternative for the treatment of UC.