Ursolic acid ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative DNA damage and inflammation in mouse kidney by inhibiting the STAT3 and NF-κB activities

Ursolic acid improves necroptosis via STAT3 signaling in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) poses a serious threat to human survival and quality of life with high mortality and morbidity rates. The current absence of effective treatments for intestinal IRI highlights the urgent need to identify new therapeutic targets. Ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpene natural compound, has been shown to possess various pharmacological properties including intestinal protection. However, its potential protective efficacy on intestinal IRI remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate the effect of UA on intestinal IRI and explore the underlying mechanisms. To achieve this, we utilized network pharmacology to analyze the mechanism of UA in intestinal IRI and assessed UA's effects on intestinal IRI using a mouse model of superior mesenteric artery occlusion/reperfusion and an in vitro model of oxygen-glucose deprivation and reperfusion-induced IEC-6 cells. Our results demonstrated that UA improved necroptosis through the RIP1/RIP3/MLKL pathway, reduced necroinflammation via the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway, attenuated morphological damage, and enhanced intestinal barrier function. Furthermore, UA pretreatment downregulated the phosphorylation level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). The effects of UA were attenuated by the STAT3 agonist Colivelin. In conclusion, our study suggests that UA can improve intestinal IRI by inhibiting necroptosis in enterocytes via the suppression of STAT3 activation. These results provide a theoretical basis for UA treatment of intestinal IRI and related clinical diseases.

STAT3 Regulates the Redox Profile in MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

Unbalanced redox status and constitutive STAT3 activation are related to several aspects of tumor biology and poor prognosis, including metastasis and drug resistance. The triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is listed as the most aggressive and exhibits the worst prognosis among the breast cancer subtypes. Although the mechanism of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation led to STAT3 activation is described, there is no data concerning the STAT3 influence on redox homeostasis in TNBC. To address the role of STAT3 signaling in redox balance, we inhibited STAT3 in TNBC cells and investigated its impact on total ROS levels, contents of hydroperoxides, nitric oxide (NO), and total glutathione (GSH), as well as the expression levels of 3-nitrotyrosine (3NT), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/p65. Our results indicate that ROS levels depend on the STAT3 activation, while the hydroperoxide level remained unchanged, and NO and 3NT expression increased. Furthermore, GSH levels, Nrf2, and NF-κB/p65 protein levels are decreased in the STAT3-inhibited cells. Accordingly, TNBC patients' data from TCGA demonstrated that both STAT3 mRNA levels and STAT3 signature are correlated to NF-κB/p65 and Nrf2 signatures. Our findings implicate STAT3 in controlling redox balance and regulating redox-related genes' expression in triple-negative breast cancer.

Oleanolic acid and its analogues: promising therapeutics for kidney disease

Kidney diseases pose a significant threat to human health due to their high prevalence and mortality rates. Worryingly, the clinical use of drugs for kidney diseases is associated with more side effects, so more effective and safer treatments are urgently needed. Oleanolic acid (OA) is a common pentacyclic triterpenoid that is widely available in nature and has been shown to have protective effects in kidney disease. However, comprehensive studies on its role in kidney diseases are still lacking. Therefore, this article first explores the botanical sources, pharmacokinetics, derivatives, and safety of OA, followed by a summary of the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-oxidative stress, autophagy-enhancing, and antifibrotic effects of OA and its analogues in renal diseases, and an analysis of the molecular mechanisms, aiming to provide further insights for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of kidney diseases.

Ursolic acid: biological functions and application in animal husbandry

Ursolic acid (UA) is a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid with 30 carbon atoms. UA has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antimicrobial, hepato-protective, anticancer, and other biological activities. Most studies on the biological functions of UA have been performed in mammalian cell (in vitro) and rodent (in vivo) models. UA is used in animal husbandry as an anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent, as well as for enhancing the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Although UA has been shown to have significant in vitro bacteriostatic effects, it is rarely used in animal nutrition. The use of UA as a substitute for oral antibiotics or as a novel feed additive in animal husbandry should be considered. This review summarizes the available data on the biological functions of UA and its applications in animal husbandry.

Synergistic Effects of Vitis vinifera L. and Centella asiatica against CCl4-Induced Liver Injury in Mice

Liver injury can be acute or chronic, resulting from a variety of factors, including viral hepatitis, drug overdose, idiosyncratic drug reaction, or toxins, while the progression of pathogenesis in the liver rises due to the involvement of numerous cytokines and growth factor mediators. Thus, the identification of more effective biomarker-based active phytochemicals isolated from medicinal plants is a promising strategy to protect against CCl₄-induced liver injury. Vitis vinifera L. (VE) and Centella asiatica (CE) are well-known medicinal plants that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, synergism between the two has not previously been studied. Here, we investigated the synergistic effects of a V. vinifera L. (VE) leaf, C. asiatica (CE) extract combination (VCEC) against CCl₄-induced liver injury. Acute liver injury was induced by a single intraperitoneal administration of CCl₄ (1 mL/kg). VCEC was administered orally for three consecutive days at various concentrations (100 and 200 mg/kg) prior to CCl₄ injection. The extent of liver injury and the protective effects of VCEC were evaluated by biochemical analysis and histopathological studies. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels and Western blotting. VCEC treatment significantly reduced serum transaminase levels (AST and ALT), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and reactive oxygen species (ROS). CCl₄- induced apoptosis was inhibited by VCEC treatment by reducing cleaved caspase-3 and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax). VCEC-treated mice significantly restored cytochrome P450 2E1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in CCl4-treated mice. In addition, VCEC downregulated overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines and hepatic nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and inhibited CCl4-mediated apoptosis. Collectively, VCEC exhibited synergistic protective effects against liver injury through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic ability against oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Therefore, VCEC appears promising as a potential therapeutic agent for CCl₄-induced acute liver injury in mice.

Ursolic Acid Ameliorates the Injury of H9c2 Cells Caused by Hypoxia and Reoxygenation Through Mediating CXCL2/NF-κB Pathway

Ursolic acid (UA) has been reported to possess several biological benefits, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, antibacterial, and neuroprotective functions. This study detects the function and molecular mechanism of UA in H9c2 cells under hypoxia and reoxygenation (H/R) conditions.Under H/R stimulation, the effects of UA on H9c2 cells were examined using ELISA and western blot assays. The Comparative Toxicogenomics Database was employed to analyze the target molecule of UA. Small interfering RNA was used to knock down CXCL2 expression, further exploring the function of CXCL2 in H/R-induced H9c2 cells. The genes related to the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were assessed using western blot analysis.Significant effects of UA on H/R-induced H9c2 cell damage were observed, accompanied by reduced inflammation and oxidative stress injury. Additionally, the increased level of CXCL2 in H/R-induced H9c2 cells was reduced after UA stimulation. Moreover, CXCL2 knockdown strengthened the beneficial effect of UA on H/R-induced H9c2 cells. HY-18739, an activator of the NF-κB pathway, can increase CXCL2 expression. Moreover, the increased levels of p-P65 NF-κB and p-IκBα in H/R-induced H9c2 cells were remarkably attenuated by UA treatment.In summary, the results indicated that UA may alleviate the damage of H9c2 cells by targeting the CXCL2/NF-κB pathway under H/R conditions.

Potential nephroprotective phytochemicals: Mechanism and future prospects

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kidney disease (KD) is one of the serious health issues, which causes worrisome morbidity and economic burden. Therapeutic strategies are available however majority of them are associated with severe adverse effects and poor patient compliance and adherence. This explorative article was undertaken to provide a holistic review of known nephroprotective (NP) phytoconstituents along with their research-based evidences on mechanism, sources, and clinical trials that may play essential role in prevention and cure of KD.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present systematic review aimed to provide in-depth and better evidences of the global burden of KD, phytoconstituents as NP with emphasis on mechanism of action both in vitro and in vivo, their wide biological sources as well as their clinical efficacy in management of kidney disease and its related disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Comprehensive information was searched systematically from electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Sciencedirect, Wiley, Scopus, Google scholar and Springer until February 2021 to find relevant data for publication on phytoconstituents with nephroprotective potential.

RESULTS

In total, 24,327 articles were screened in first search for "phytoconstituents and medicinal plants for nephroprotection and kidney disorder". On the basis of exclusion and inclusion criteria, 24,091 were excluded. Only 236 papers were spotted to have superlative quality data, which is appropriate under titles and sub-titles of the present review. The phytoconstituents having multiple research evidence along with wide number of medicinal plants sources and mechanism reported for nephroprotection have been selected and reviewed.

CONCLUSION

This review, based on pre-clinical and clinical data of NP phytoconstituents, provides scientific-basis for the rational discovery, development and utilization of these upcoming treatment practices. Further,-more clinical studies are warranted to improve the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic understanding of phytoconstituents. Also, more specific evaluation for natural sources is needed.

Advances in Anti-inflammatory Activity, Mechanism and Therapeutic Application of Ursolic Acid

In vivo and in vitro studies reveal that Ursolic Acid (UA) is able to counteract endogenous and exogenous inflammatory stimuli and has favorable anti-inflammatory effects. The antiinflammatory mechanisms mainly include decreasing the release of histamine in mast cells, suppressing the activities of lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase and phospholipase, and reducing the production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, blocking the activation of the signal pathway, downregulating the expression of inflammatory factors, and inhibiting the activities of elastase and complement. These mechanisms can open up new avenues for the scientific community to develop or improve novel therapeutic approaches to tackle inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, neuroinflammation, liver diseases, kidney diseases, diabetes, dermatitis, bowel diseases, cancer. The anti-inflammatory activity, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ursolic acid and its therapeutic applications are reviewed in this paper.

Ursolic acid does not change the cytokine levels following resistance training in healthy men: A pilot balanced, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial

Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural compound that shows anti-inflammatory actions. However, no human studies have investigated the cytokine profile during the RT and UA consumption. The purpose of this study was to verify if UA is able to potentiate the anti-inflammatory activity after RT, reflecting in the reduction of blood inflammatory markers in healthy men. Twenty-seven participants were allocated to two groups: control (CON) (n = 13) and UA (n = 14). For 8weeks, each group performed RT and consumed capsules containing a placebo (400 mg/day) or UA (400 mg/day). Serum cytokine concentrations were evaluated before and after the training period. There was no difference in the serum cytokine concentrations of TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-6 (p > 0.05). In conclusion, UA supplementation for 8weeks was not able to change the blood TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-6 concentrations in healthy men undergoing RT. However, further studies are warranted to investigate other inflammatory markers.

Mitigation of ILβ-1, ILβ-6, TNF-α, and markers of apoptosis by ursolic acid against cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity in rats

BACKGROUND

Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid that is known for its benefits under several pathological conditions. Cisplatin (CP) is among the most preferred chemotherapeutic agents; however, its nephrotoxicity limits its clinical utility.

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to determine the role of UA in the reduction of CP-induced nephrotoxicity and mitigation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis in a rat model.

METHODOLOGY

Male Wistar rats were randomized into vehicle control, CP (7.5 mg/kg), UA 10 mg/kg, and CP with UA 5 and 10 mg/kg groups. Kidney and blood samples were collected for assessment of renal function, measurement of pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis markers, antioxidant activity, and tissue histology.

RESULTS

CP significantly increased the levels of serum Cr, BUN, and uric acid; it also induced histological damage reflecting the pathophysiology observed during nephrotoxicity. CP has also shown its pro-oxidant activity in kidney tissue because CP decreased the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT; it increased the lipid peroxidation as measured by MDA content. In addition, CP significantly upregulated the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and expression of apoptotic markers, that is, there were increased levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, caspase-3, and caspase-9. Two weeks of continuous treatment of UA showed significant recovery against CP-induced nephrotoxicity; UA decreased the levels of Cr, BUN, and uric acid and ameliorated histological damage. UA also downregulated the activities of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α as well as expression of caspase-3 and caspase-9. Furthermore, CP-induced oxidative stress that was antagonized by UA-the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT were significantly increased while MDA content was decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

UA has a protective effect against CP-induced nephrotoxicity, which may be due to its antioxidant activity and mitigation of ILβ-1, ILβ-6, TNF-α, and markers of apoptosis.

Ursolic Acid and Related Analogues: Triterpenoids with Broad Health Benefits

Ursolic acid (UA) is a well-studied natural pentacyclic triterpenoid found in herbs, fruit and a number of traditional Chinese medicinal plants. UA has a broad range of biological activities and numerous potential health benefits. In this review, we summarize the current data on the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of UA and review the literature on the biological activities of UA and its closest analogues in the context of inflammation, metabolic diseases, including liver and kidney diseases, obesity and diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurological disorders. We end with a brief overview of UA’s main analogues with a special focus on a newly discovered naturally occurring analogue with intriguing biological properties and potential health benefits, 23-hydroxy ursolic acid.

Ursolic acid: A systematic review of its pharmacology, toxicity and rethink on its pharmacokinetics based on PK-PD model

Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid compound existing in various traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, and it possesses diverse pharmacological actions and some undesirable adverse effects, even toxicological activities. Due to UA's low solubility and poor bioavailability, and its interaction with gut microbiota after oral administration, the pharmacokinetics of UA remain elusive, leading to obscurity in the pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics (PK-PD) profile and relationship for UA. Based on literatures from PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Web of Science and Wiley Online Library, with keywords of "pharmacology", "toxicology", "pharmacokinetics", "PK-PD" and "ursolic acid", herein we systematically review the pharmacology and toxicity of UA, and rethink on its pharmacokinetics on the basis of PK-PD model, and seek to delineate the underlying mechanisms for the characteristics of pharmacology and toxicology of UA, and for the pharmacokinetic features of UA particularly from the organ tropism and the interactions between UA and gut microbiota, and lay a solid foundation for development of UA-derived therapeutic agents in clinical settings.

An updated review of protective effects of rosemary and its active constituents against natural and chemical toxicities

Natural and chemical toxic agents cause severe adverse effects on people's health in a variety of exposing ways. Herbal medications have taken into consideration as alternative safe treatments for toxicities. Rosmarinus officinalis also known as rosemary belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Rosemary and its constituents including carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, and carnosol have a lot of benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, anti-bacterial, antiviral, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective activities. In this literate review, we focused on the protective effects of rosemary and its main compounds against natural and chemical toxicities in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The protective effects of rosemary and its components are mostly mediated through different mechanisms such as the inhibition of oxidative stress, reduction of inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-17 (IL-17), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) as well as the modulation of apoptosis and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways.

Ellagic acid prevents kidney injury and oxidative damage via regulation of Nrf-2/NF-κB signaling in carbon tetrachloride induced rats

Phytochemicals, bioactive food compounds, found in plants have been described as protective agents against renal injury. This work was planned to evaluate the effects of EA on anti-oxidative and anti-inflammation pathways in kidney damage induced with carbon tetrachloride. In this study, experimental animals (n = 36, 8 weeks old rats) were divided into 4 groups as follows: 1) Control group 2) EA group (10 mg/kg body weight) 3) CCl₄ group (1.5 ml/kg, body weight) 4) EA + CCl₄ group. The potentially protective effect of EA on kidney damage exposed by CCl₄ in rats were evaluated. EA administration protects CCl₄ induced kidney damage against oxidative stress through its antioxidant protection. Treatment of EA significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and improved glutathione and catalase enzyme activity. Recently studies showed that EA activated caspase-3 and nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2 related factor driven antioxidant signal pathway and protected the kidney against damage induced by oxidative stress. Furthermore, EA also markedly decreased the level of cyclooxygenase-2, the vascular endothelial growth factor and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and suppressed the protein synthesis of nuclear factor-kappa-B. This study reveals that EA has kidney protective effect against CCl₄ induced oxidative damage and inflammation.

Genome-Protecting Compounds as Potential Geroprotectors

Throughout life, organisms are exposed to various exogenous and endogenous factors that cause DNA damages and somatic mutations provoking genomic instability. At a young age, compensatory mechanisms of genome protection are activated to prevent phenotypic and functional changes. However, the increasing stress and age-related deterioration in the functioning of these mechanisms result in damage accumulation, overcoming the functional threshold. This leads to aging and the development of age-related diseases. There are several ways to counteract these changes: 1) prevention of DNA damage through stimulation of antioxidant and detoxification systems, as well as transition metal chelation; 2) regulation of DNA methylation, chromatin structure, non-coding RNA activity and prevention of nuclear architecture alterations; 3) improving DNA damage response and repair; 4) selective removal of damaged non-functional and senescent cells. In the article, we have reviewed data about the effects of various trace elements, vitamins, polyphenols, terpenes, and other phytochemicals, as well as a number of synthetic pharmacological substances in these ways. Most of the compounds demonstrate the geroprotective potential and increase the lifespan in model organisms. However, their genome-protecting effects are non-selective and often are conditioned by hormesis. Consequently, the development of selective drugs targeting genome protection is an advanced direction.

Interleukins 6/8 and cyclooxygenase-2 release and expressions are regulated by oxidative stress-JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to particulate matter ≤2.5 μm

Atmospheric particulate matter with a diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) can induce inflammation of the respiratory system, which is the pathological basis of asthma or other respiratory diseases; however, the underlying regulation mechanism has not been clearly addressed. The aim of this study was to explore the potential role of the oxidative stress-JAK/STAT signaling pathway in the inflammation of human bronchial epithelial cells induced by PM2.5. The human bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE cells were stimulated with PM2.5 at 50 and 100 μg/mL doses for 12 or 24 hours. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected using flow cytometry. Gene and protein expressions of JAK2, STAT3 and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) were determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. The ratio of intracellular glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) and the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in cellular supernatant were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results indicated that PM2.5 treatment significantly increased gene expressions of JAK2/STAT3 and protein levels of p-JAK2/p-STAT3, accompanied by increased intracellular ROS levels, decreased GSH/GSSG ratio at 50 and 100 μg/mL of PM2.5, and significantly enhanced levels of IL-6, IL-8 and COX-2 at a dose of 100 μg/mL. Pretreatment with N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) attenuated the oxidative stress induced by PM2.5; similarly, pretreatment with AG490 (an inhibitor of JAK) decreased the cytokine levels stimulated by PM2.5. Therefore, we concluded that PM2.5 exposure could activate oxidative stress-JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, elevate the levels of IL-6, IL-8 and COX-2 in 16HBE cells, which can be inhibited by the NAC or AG490.

Ameliorative effect of ursolic acid on ochratoxin A-induced renal cytotoxicity mediated by Lonp1/Aco2/Hsp75

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin ubiquitous in feeds and foodstuffs. The water-insoluble pentacyclic triterpene bioactive compound, ursolic acid (UA), is widespread in various cuticular waxes of edible fruits, food materials, and medicinal plants. Although studies have reported that oxidative stress was involved in both the nephrotoxicity of OTA and the renoprotective function of UA, the role of stress-responsive Lon protease 1 (Lonp1) in the renoprotection of UA against OTA is still unknown. In this study, cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and several proteins' expressions of human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cells in response to UA, OTA, and/or Lonp1 inhibitor CDDO-me treatment were detected to reveal the protective mechanism of UA against OTA-induced renal cytotoxicity. Results indicated that a 2 h-treatment of 1 μM UA could significantly alleviate the ROS production and cell death induced by a 24 h-treatment of 8 μM OTA in HEK293T cells (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, the protein expressions of Lonp1, Aco2 and Hsp75 were significantly inhibited after 8 μM OTA treating for 24 h (P < 0.05), which could be notably reversed by the pre-treatment and post-treatment of 1 μM UA (P < 0.05). The protein expressions of Lonp1, Aco2 and Hsp75 were inhibited by the addition of CDDO-me. The three protein expression trends were similar before and after the addition of CDDO-me. In conclusion, OTA could inhibit the expression of Lonp1, suppressing Aco2 and Hsp75 as a result, thereby activating ROS and inducing cell death in HEK293T cells, which could be alleviated by UA pre-treatment.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Mechanisms of Neuroprotection by Ursolic Acid: Addressing Brain Injury, Cerebral Ischemia, Cognition Deficit, Anxiety, and Depression

Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene which is found in common herbs and medicinal plants that are reputed for a variety of pharmacological effects. Both as an active principle of these plants and as a nutraceutical ingredient, the pharmacology of UA in the CNS and other organs and systems has been extensively reported in recent years. In this communication, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory axis of UA's pharmacology is appraised for its therapeutic potential in some common CNS disorders. Classic examples include the traumatic brain injury (TBI), cerebral ischemia, cognition deficit, anxiety, and depression. The pharmacological efficacy for UA is demonstrated through the therapeutic principle of one drug → multitargets → one/many disease(s). Both specific enzymes and receptor targets along with diverse pharmacological effects associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory signalling are scrutinised.

Effects of dietary dandelion extracts on growth performance, liver histology, immune-related gene expression and CCl4 resistance of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus♂ × Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀)

The study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with dandelion extracts (DE) on growth performance, feed utilization, body composition, serum biochemical, liver histology, immune-related gene expression and CCl₄ resistance of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus♂ × Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀). A basal diet supplemented with DE at 0% (diet 0%), 0.1% (diet 0.1%), 0.2% (diet 0.2%), 0.4% (diet 0.4%) and 0.8% (diet 0.8%) were fed to hybrid grouper for 8 weeks. The results revealed that dietary DE had not a significant impact on growth performance and feed utilization (P > 0.05), but it could decrease the percent of crude lipids in whole body and increase the percent of crude protein in muscle (P < 0.05). Dietary DE increased the mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) and reduced inflammatory factor in the spleen and head-kidney of fish (P < 0.05), but reduced the expression of the liver antioxidant gene except for glutathione reductase (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 0.2%-0.4% DE could effectively improve liver health. After injection of CCL₄ by 72 h, fish fed Diet0.2% and Diet0.4% showed regular hepatocyte morphology while fish fed Diet 0%, Diet 0.1% and Diet 0.8% showed hepatocyte damage. Higher survival rate and total blood cell count was observed in fish fed 0.1%-0.4% dietary DE (P < 0.05). In conclusion, DE could be used as a functional feed additive to enhance liver function of farmed fish. The best level of it should be between 0.2% and 0.4%.

Redox-responsive chemosensitive polyspermine delivers ursolic acid targeting to human breast tumor cells: The depletion of intracellular GSH contents arouses chemosensitizing effects

Antitumor efficacy of ursolic acid (UA) is seriously limited due to its low hydrophilicity and needy bioavailability. To overcome these obstacles, chemosensitive polyspermine (CPSP) conjugated with UA and folic acid (FA) as a novel targeted prodrug was designed and successfully synthesized in this investigation. This prodrug not only showed high aqueous solubility, GSH-triggered degradation and good biocompatibility, but also exhibited better inhibition effect on the tumor cells proliferation in comparison with free UA. FA-CPSP-UA could down-regulate the generation of GSH and manifest excellent ability in enhancing antitumor efficacy. In addition, FA-CPSP-UA could inhibit the expression of MMP-9, which led to restricting MCF-7 cells migration. Taken together, the results indicated that FA-CPSP-UA, as a carrier, can efficiently deliver UA to folate receptor positive cancer cells and improve tumor therapy of UA by Chemosensitive effect.

Oral supplementation with ursolic acid ameliorates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury in a mouse model by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory responses

Ursolic acid (UA) as a multiple bioactive native compound has recently been demonstrated to treat sepsis in animal models. However, the beneficial effects of UA in sepsis‑induced acute kidney injury (AKI) are not completely understood. In the present study, the effect of UA on sepsis‑induced AKI in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery mice was investigated. Renal histomorphological analysis was performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression of inflammatory markers in the kidney of septic mice was measured by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The results demonstrated that UA administration improved survival in septic mice induced by CLP surgery. The treatment with UA revealed protection against AKI induced by CLP surgery, including the alleviation of glomerular damage and vacuolization in the proximal tubules. In addition, the effects of UA on oxidative stress and inflammation in septic mice were determined. The findings suggested that UA may protect against sepsis‑induced AKI by inhibiting reactive oxygen species and inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor‑α, interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6, in the kidney from septic mice. Finally, UA inhibited CLP‑induced activation of nuclear factor‑κB signaling in the kidney from septic mice. The findings of the present study demonstrated that UA may be used as a potential therapeutic agent for complications of sepsis, especially for sepsis-induced AKI.

Ursolic acid activates the apoptosis of prostate cancer via ROCK/PTEN mediated mitochondrial translocation of cofilin-1

Ursolic acid has various pharmacological activities, and can reduce blood fat as well as having antihepatic, antitumoral, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. However, the pro-apoptotic mechanism by which ursolic acid influences human prostate cancer requires additional study. The aim of the present study was to assess whether ursolic acid activates the apoptosis of prostate cancer and to investigate the mechanism by which the Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1)/phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) signaling pathway performs a role in ursolic acid-mediated cofilin-1 to induce apoptosis in human prostate cancer. Firstly, the present study determined the pro-apoptotic mechanism by which ursolic acid influences the cell proliferation and apoptosis of human prostate LNCaP cancer cells. Caspase-3/9 activities and ROCK1, PTEN, Cofilin-1 and cytochrome c protein expression levels were also analyzed. In the present study, it is reported that the pro-apoptotic mechanism of ursolic acid potently suppressed the cell proliferation of human prostate LNCaP cancer cells. The present study revealed that the mediation of ROCK1/PTEN-cofilin-1/cytochrome c protein expression activates caspase-3/9 activities which subsequently induced the apoptosis of human prostate cancer cells. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that ursolic acid activates the apoptosis of prostate cancer via ROCK/PTEN mediated cofilin-1/cytochrome c which mediated caspase-3/9 activities.

Location of the bioactive pentacyclic triterpene ursolic acid in the membrane. A molecular dynamics study

Ursolic acid (URS), an ursane-representative bioactive pentacyclic triterpene, is a plant secondary metabolite presenting a great number of pharmacological beneficial properties. Due to the prominent hydrophobic character of URS and its high phospholipid/water partition coefficient, some of its possible effects on biological systems might be related to its capacity to interact with and locate into the membrane as well as interact specifically with its components. In this work, we have studied the location and orientation of URS in the membrane by molecular dynamics simulations. At the end of the simulation, URS locates near the surface in vicinity to the phospholipid headgroups but its orientation depends on lipid composition, its final average orientation being a nearly parallel one in POPC but a nearly perpendicular one in POPC/POPE/POPG/PSM/Chol. Furthermore, in the complex lipid system URS seems to interact specifically with POPE, PSM, and Chol excluding POPG from its surroundings, which could lead to phase separation and domain formation. The different disposition of URS in the membrane and its specific interaction with certain lipid types could lead to a significant perturbation of the membrane structure. The important pharmacological activities of URS would rely on the effects it exerts on the membrane structure in general and the existence of specific interactions with specific lipids in particular.

Ursolic acid improves podocyte injury caused by high glucose

BACKGROUND

Autophagy plays an important role in the maintenance of podocyte homeostasis. Reduced autophagy may result in limited renal cell function during exposure to high glucose conditions. In this study we investigated the effects of ursolic acid (UA) on autophagy and podocyte injury, which were induced by high glucose.

METHODS

Conditionally immortalized murine podocytes were cultured in media supplemented with high glucose and the effects of the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and UA on protein expression were determined. miR-21 expression was detected by real-time RT-PCR. Activation of the PTEN-PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, expression of autophagy-related proteins and expression of podocyte marker proteins were determined by western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to monitor the accumulation of LC3 puncta. Autophagosomes were also observed by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

During exposure to high glucose conditions, the normal level of autophagy was reduced in podocytes, and this defective autophagy induced podocyte injury. Increased miR-21 expression, decreased PTEN expression and abnormal activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway were observed in cells that were cultured in high glucose conditions. UA and LY294002 reduced podocyte injury through the restoration of defective autophagy. Our data suggest that UA inhibits miR-21 expression and increases PTEN expression, which in turn inhibits Akt and mTOR and restores normal levels of autophagy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that podocyte injury is associated with reduced levels of autophagy during exposure to high glucose conditions, UA attenuated podocyte injury via an increase in autophagy through miR-21 inhibition and PTEN expression, which inhibit the abnormal activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

Ursolic acid from apple pomace and traditional plants: A valuable triterpenoid with functional properties

Apple juice production generates a large amount of residue comprising mainly peels, seeds, and pulp, known as apple pomace. In the global context, Brazil ranks 11th in apple production and thousands of tons of apple pomace are produced every year. This by-product is little explored, since it is a rich and heterogeneous mixture, containing interesting phytochemical groups. Among them, ursolic acid (UA) has attracted attention because of its therapeutic potential. UA is a pentacyclic triterpene found too in several traditional plants, and has shown several functional properties such as antibacterial, antiprotozoal, anti-inflammatory and antitumor. Therefore, this review attempts to shed some light on the economical viability of apple and apple pomace as sources of bioactive compounds, highlighting the UA extraction, and its main functional properties published in the last 5years (2010-2015).

n-Hexane Insoluble Fraction of Plantago lanceolata Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Mice by Inhibiting Cyclooxygenase-2 and Reducing Chemokines Levels

Inflammation is involved in the progression of many disorders, such as tumors, arthritis, gastritis, and atherosclerosis. Thus, the development of new agents targeting inflammation is still challenging. Medicinal plants have been used traditionally to treat various diseases including inflammation. A previous study has indicated that dichloromethane extract of P. lanceolata leaves exerts anti-inflammatory activity in an in vitro model. Here, we examined the in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of a n-hexane insoluble fraction of P. lanceolata leaves dichloromethane extract (HIFPL). We first evaluated its potency to reduce paw edema induced by carrageenan, and the expression of the proinflammatory enzyme, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, in mice. The efficacy of HIFPL to inhibit COX-2 was also evaluated in an in vitro enzymatic assay. We further studied the effect of HIFPL on leukocytes migration in mice induced by thioglycollate. The level of chemokines facilitating the migration of leukocytes was also measured. We found that HIFPL (40, 80, 160 mg/kg) demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities in mice. The HIFPL reduced the volume of paw edema and COX-2 expression. However, HIFPL acts as an unselective COX-2 inhibitor as it inhibited COX-1 with a slightly higher potency. Interestingly, HIFPL strongly inhibited leukocyte migration by reducing the level of chemokines, Interleukine-8 (IL-8) and Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1).

Evidence of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of Plinia edulis leaf infusion

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plinia edulis (Vell.) Sobral (Myrtaceae) is native and endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest. Popularly known as "cambucá", it has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of stomach disorders, diabetes, bronchitis, inflammation and as tonic. Although there are numerous records concerning its popular use as analgesic and anti-inflammatory, scientific information regarding these pharmacological activities is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of P. edulis leaf infusion (AEPe) in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The acetic acid-induced writhing response and mechanical nociceptive paw tests were used to evaluate the antinociceptive activity. Carrageenan-induced paw edema and lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis were used to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity. The substances in AEPe were identified by HPLC-MS analysis.

RESULTS

At the test doses 30-300mg/kg p.o., AEPe has clearly exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, reducing carrageenan-induced paw edema and inhibiting leukocyte recruitment into the peritoneal cavity. The infusion has shown significant antinociceptive activity in both models of nociception. Gallic acid, myricitrin, guaijaverin, quercitrin, quercetin, corosolic acid, maslinic acid, oleanolic acid and ursolic acid were identified in AEPe.

CONCLUSION

P. edulis infusion presented antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in all experiments realized in this study, which could be related to the presence of triterpenoids and flavonoids. These results provide scientific support for the traditional use of this species in the management of pain and inflammation.

Renoprotective effects of ursolic acid on ischemia/reperfusion‑induced acute kidney injury through oxidative stress, inflammation and the inhibition of STAT3 and NF‑κB activities

Ursolic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene compound with low toxicity and easy availability, has a variety of biological activities, including antitumor, antioxidant, antihepatitis, anti‑inflammatory and antibacterial effects. The present study aimed to investigate the renoprotective effects of ursolic acid on ischemia/reperfusion‑induced acute kidney injury (I/R‑IAKI) in rats associated with its antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory effects, as well as interference with the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3/nuclear factor (NF)‑κB signaling pathway. The present study demonstrated that pre‑treatment with ursolic acid significantly increased renal functioning and attenuated increases of serum angiotensin II levels in rats subjected to I/R‑IAKI. In addition, I/R‑IAKI‑induced inflammation and oxidative stress were significantly reduced by pre‑treatment with ursolic acid. Furthermore, ursolic acid significantly suppressed the upregulation of STAT3, NF‑κB and caspase‑3 activities in rats following I/R‑IAKI. These results indicated that ursolic acid may be a potential drug for reducing I/R‑IAKI through suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress damage, as well as modulation of STAT3 and NF‑κB activities.

SIRT1/Atg5/autophagy are involved in the antiatherosclerosis effects of ursolic acid

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antiatherosclerosis effects of ursolic acid (UA) in high-fat diet-fed quails (Coturnix coturnix) and potential mechanism. Quails were treated with high-fat diet (14 % pork oil, 1 % cholesterol w/w) with or without UA (50, 150, or 300 mg/kg/day) for 10 weeks. Serum lipid profile was assessed at 0, 4.5, and 10 weeks. After 10 weeks, serum antioxidant status and morphology of aorta were assessed. Additionally, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to 100 μg/ml oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) for 24 h, with or without pretreatment with UA (5, 10 or 20 μM) for 16 h, autophagy inhibitor 3-MA 5 mM for 2 h, or SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 10 μM for 2 h. Cell viability and oxidative stress status were assessed and autophagy status was determined. Acetylation of lysine residue on Atg5 was assessed with immunoprecipitation. In results, high-fat diet negatively affected serum lipid profile and antioxidant status in quails and induced significant histological changes. Cotreatment with UA remarkably alleviated such changes. In HUVECs, ox-LDL treatment induced significant cytotoxicity along with oxidative stress, while UA cotreatment alleviated such changes significantly. UA treatment induced autophagy, enhanced SIRT1 expression, and decreased acetylation of lysine residue on Atg5. Cotreatment with 3-MA or EX-527 effectively abolished UA's protective effects. In summary, UA exerted antiatherosclerosis effects in quails and protected HUVECs from ox-LDL induced cytotoxicity, and the mechanism is associated with increased SIRT1 expression, decreased Atg5 acetylation on lysine residue, and increased autophagy.

Ursolic acid induced anti-proliferation effects in rat primary vascular smooth muscle cells is associated with inhibition of microRNA-21 and subsequent PTEN/PI3K

This study focused on the anti-proliferation effects of ursolic acid (UA) in rat primary vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and investigated underlying molecular mechanism of action. Rat primary VSMCs were pretreated with UA (10, 20 or 30μM) or amino guanidine (AG, 50μM) for 12h or with PI3K inhibitor LY294002 for 30min or with Akt inhibitor MK2206 for 24h, then 10% fetal bovine serum was used to induce proliferation. CCK-8 was used to assess cell proliferation. To explore the mechanism, cells were treated with UA (10, 20 or 30μM), LY294002 or MK2206, or transient transfected to inhibit miRNA-21 (miRNA-21) or to overexpress PTEN, then quantitative real-time PCR was used to assess the mRNA levels of miRNA-21 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) for cells treated with UA or miRNA-21 inhibitor; western blotting was used to measure the protein levels of PTEN and PI3K. UA exerted significant anti-proliferation effects in rat primary VSMCs. Furthermore, UA inhibited the expression of miRNA-21 and subsequently enhanced the expression of PTEN. PTEN was found to inhibit the expression of PI3K. In conclusion, UA exerts anti-proliferation effects in rat primary VSMCs, which is associated with the inhibition of miRNA-21 expression and modulation of PTEN/PI3K signaling pathway.

Ursolic acid protects against ulcerative colitis via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in mice

Ursolic acid (UA) has been reported to have a protective effect in colitis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In the present study, experimental ulcerative colitis was induced in male BALB/c mice by the administration of 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) for 7 days, followed by treatment with UA for another 7 days. Hematoxylin & eosin staining was performed to evaluate colon tissue damage, and enzyme assays were used to measure malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in colon homogenate. In addition, serum levels of interleukin (IL)‑1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‑α were measured using an ELISA, and the level of nuclear factor (NF)‑κB p65 in the colonic tissues was assessed by western blotting. The 7‑day DSS administration induced marked colon damage, increased the serum levels of IL‑1β and TNF‑α, increased MDA content and decreased SOD activity in the colon homogenate. These changes were significantly improved by treatment with UA. UA also reduced the DSS‑stimulated high nuclear level of NF‑κB p65 in the colon tissues. These results demonstrate a protective role of UA in ulcerative colitis, and suggest that anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities are involved in the underlying mechanisms.

Oleanolic, Ursolic, and Betulinic Acids as Food Supplements or Pharmaceutical Agents for Type 2 Diabetes: Promise or Illusion?

Oleanolic (OA), ursolic (UA), and betulinic (BA) acids are three triterpenic acids (TAs) with potential effects for treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Mechanistic studies showed that these TAs act as hypoglycemic and antiobesity agents mainly through (i) reducing the absorption of glucose; (ii) decreasing endogenous glucose production; (iii) increasing insulin sensitivity; (iv) improving lipid homeostasis; and (v) promoting body weight regulation. Besides these promising beneficial effects, it is believed that OA, UA, and BA protect against diabetes-related comorbidities due to their antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. We also highlight the protective effect of OA, UA, and BA against oxidative damage, which may be very relevant for the treatment and/or prevention of T2DM. In the present review, we provide an integrative description of the antidiabetic properties of OA, UA, and BA, evaluating the potential use of these TAs as food supplements or pharmaceutical agents to prevent and/or treat T2DM.

Transforming Growth Factor-β1/Smad3 Signaling and Redox Status in Experimentally Induced Nephrotoxicity: Impact of Carnosine

Exposure to various organic compounds including drugs and environmental toxins causes cellular damage through generation of free radicals. Carnosine a dipeptide was used in this study to evaluate its effect against CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity. Sixty male albino rats were involved in this study and were equally divided into four groups. CCl4 (3 ml/kg body weight; biweekly for 4 weeks) was given to group II and III. Carnosine (10 mg/kg body weight; once daily for 4 weeks) was given to group III and VI. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) level by immunoassay and Smad3 mRNA level by real-time PCR were estimated in addition to cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) activity, renal functions, redox status assessment and histopathological examination of the kidney. Carnosine significantly improved kidney function, renal redox status, decreased renal CYP2E1 activity, TGF-β1 level and Smad3 gene expression when compared to CCL4-intoxicated group. The protective effect of carnosine was confirmed by histopathological study.

IN CONCLUSION

carnosine has the ability to protect against CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity possibly by alleviating oxidative stress, normalizing kidney histopathological architecture in addition to the disruption of the inflammatory and fibrotic response induced by CCl4.

Ursolic acid (UA): A metabolite with promising therapeutic potential

Plants are known to produce a variety of bioactive metabolites which are being used to cure various life threatening and chronic diseases. The molecular mechanism of action of such bioactive molecules, may open up new avenues for the scientific community to develop or improve novel therapeutic approaches to tackle dreadful diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. Ursolic acid (UA) is one among the categories of such plant-based therapeutic metabolites having multiple intracellular and extracellular targets that play role in apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis and inflammatory processes. Moreover, the synthetic derivatives of UA have also been seen to be involved in a range of pharmacological applications, which are associated with prevention of diseases. Evidences suggest that UA could be used as a potential candidate to develop a comprehensive competent strategy towards the treatment and prevention of health disorders. The review article herein describes the possible therapeutic effects of UA along with putative mechanism of action.

Pharmacogenomic Characterization of Cytotoxic Compounds from Salvia officinalis in Cancer Cells

Salvia officinalis is used as a dietary supplement with diverse medicinal activity (e.g. antidiabetic and antiatherosclerotic effects). The plant also exerts profound cytotoxicity toward cancer cells. Here, we investigated possible modes of action to explain its activity toward drug-resistant tumor cells. Log10IC50 values of two constituents of S. officinalis (ursolic acid, pomolic acid) were correlated to the expression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters (P-glycoprotein/ABCB1/MDR1, MRP1/ABCC1, BCRP/ABCG2) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or mutations in RAS oncogenes and the tumor suppressor gene TP53 of the NCI panel of cell lines. Gene expression profiles predicting sensitivity and resistance of tumor cells to these compounds were determined by microarray-based mRNA expressions, COMPARE, and hierarchical cluster analyses. Furthermore, the binding of both plant acids to key molecules of the NF-κB pathway (NF-κB, I-κB, NEMO) was analyzed by molecular docking. Neither expression nor mutation of ABC transporters, oncogenes, or tumor suppressor genes correlated with log10IC50 values for ursolic acid or pomolic acid. In microarray analyses, many genes involved in signal transduction processes correlated with cellular responsiveness to these compounds. Molecular docking indicated that the two plant acids strongly bound to target proteins of the NF-κB pathway with even lower free binding energies than the known NF-κB inhibitor MG-132. They interacted more strongly with DNA-bound NF-κB than free NF-κB, pointing to inhibition of DNA binding by these compounds. In conclusion, the lack of cross-resistance to classical drug resistance mechanisms (ABC-transporters, oncogenes, tumor suppressors) may indicate a promising role of the both plant acids for cancer chemotherapy. Genes involved in signal transduction may contribute to the sensitivity or resistance of tumor cells to ursolic and pomolic acids. Ursolic and pomolic acid may target different steps of the NF-κB pathway to inhibit NF-κB-mediated functions.

The protective effect of curcumin administration on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to examine the protective effect of curcumin (CUR) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced nephrotoxicity to evaluate the detailed mechanisms by which CUR exerts its protective action.

METHODS

Thirty male Wistar-Albino rats weighing 250-300 g were randomly divided into three groups: administrations of olive oil (control, po), CCl4 (0.5mg/kg in olive oil sc) every other day for 3 weeks, and CCl4 (0.5mg/kg in olive oil sc) plus CUR (200mg/kg) every day for 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Administration of CCl4 significantly (p<0.001) increased the levels of renal function test such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Furthermore, treatment of CCl4 significantly elevated the oxidant status of renal tissues while decreasing its anti-oxidant status (p<0.001). CUR displayed a renal protective effect as evident by significant decrease in inflammation and apoptosis during histopathological examination. The administration of CCl4 resulted in an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) production due to an increase in membrane lipid peroxidation; however, the administration of CUR attenuated this, probably via its antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties.

CONCLUSION

The finding of our study indicates that CUR may have an important role to play in protecting the kidney from oxidative insult.