Resveratrol attenuates hypoxia-induced neurotoxicity through inhibiting microglial activation

Resveratrol: A Multifaceted Guardian against Anxiety and Stress Disorders-An Overview of Experimental Evidence

The medicinal properties of resveratrol have garnered increasing attention from researchers. Extensive data have been accumulated on its use in treating cardiovascular diseases, immune system disorders, cancer, neurological diseases, and behavioral disorders. The protective mechanisms of resveratrol, particularly in anxiety-related stress disorders, have been well documented. However, less attention has been given to the side effects of resveratrol. This review explores not only the mechanisms underlying the anxiolytic effects of resveratrol but also the mechanisms that may lead to increased anxiety following resveratrol treatment. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of resveratrol in managing anxiety disorders associated with stress and PTSD.

Protective Effect of Resveratrol Combined with Levodopa Against Oxidative Damage in Dopaminergic Neurons

Levodopa (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, L-Dopa) alleviates the symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD), yet prolonged usage may give rise to severe adverse effects. Resveratrol (RSV) is a potent antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory agent. And a variety of polyphenol antioxidant compounds derived from RSV combined with levodopa have demonstrated neuroprotective activity against neuronal cell death. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of this combination of RSV and L-Dopa on the survival rate, growth status, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) of MES23.5 dopamine (DA) neuron cells. In this study, we induced MPP+ in MES23.5 dopamine neuron cells and observed their survival rate, growth status, ROS content, as well as the effect of RSV combined with L-Dopa on cell survival. We also measured malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity levels as indicators of mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and oxidative damage in the cells. Our results indicated that the MES23.5 dopamine neurons had decreased survival, poor growth status, and increased ROS content after MPP+ induction. Moreover, we found that MDA levels were elevated, and SOD activity levels were decreased, suggesting that the cells experienced abnormal mitochondrial function. However, when RSV was combined with L-Dopa, the cells showed a reduced level of MPP + -induced oxidative damage, with a more significant inhibitory effect observed in the RSV group at a concentration of 50 μmol/L. In conclusion, we found that the effects of co-administration of RSV with L-Dopa (100 μmol/L) was more effective than L-Dopa administered at the high dose. Thus, we found that RSV has the potential to reduce the dose of L-Dopa required to improve PD symptoms.

The role of ZC3H12D-regulated TLR4-NF-κB pathway in LPS-induced pro-inflammatory microglial activation

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an important neurotoxin that can cause inflammatory activation of microglia. ZC3H12D is a novel immunomodulator, which plays a remarkable role in neurological pathologies. It has not been characterized whether ZC3H12D is involved in the regulation of microglial activation. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ZC3H12D in LPS-induced pro-inflammatory microglial activation and its potential mechanism. To elucidate this, we established animal models of inflammatory injury by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (10 mg/kg). The results of the open-field test showed that LPS caused impaired motor function in mice. Meanwhile, LPS caused pro-inflammatory activation of microglia in the mice cerebral cortex and inhibited the expression of ZC3H12D. We also constructed in vitro inflammatory injury models by treating BV-2 microglia with LPS (0.5 μg/mL). The results showed that down-regulated ZC3H12D expression was associated with LPS-induced pro-inflammatory microglial activation, and further intervention of ZC3H12D expression could inhibited LPS-induced pro-inflammatory activation of microglia. In addition, LPS activated the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway, and this process can also be reversed by promoting ZC3H12D expression. At the same time, the addition of resveratrol, a nutrient previously proven to inhibit pro-inflammatory microglial activation, can also reverse this process by increasing the expression of ZC3H12D. Summarized, our data elucidated that ZC3H12D in LPS-induced pro-inflammatory activation of brain microglia via restraining the TLR4-NF-κB pathway. This study may provide a valuable clue for potential therapeutic targets for neuroinflammation-related injuries.

Polyphenols Targeting MAP Kinase Signaling Pathway in Neurological Diseases: Understanding Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets

Polyphenols are a class of secondary metabolic products found in plants that have been extensively studied for how well they regulate biological processes, such as the proliferation of cells, autophagy, and apoptosis. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-mediated signaling cascade is currently identified as a crucial pro-inflammatory pathway that plays a significant role in the development of neuroinflammation. This process has been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis of several neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), CNS damage, and cerebral ischemia. Getting enough polyphenols through eating habits has resulted in mitigating the effects of oxidative stress (OS) and lowering the susceptibility to associated neurodegenerative disorders, including but not limited to multiple sclerosis (MS), AD, stroke, and PD. Polyphenols possess significant promise in dealing with the root cause of neurological conditions by modulating multiple therapeutic targets simultaneously, thereby attenuating their complicated physiology. Several polyphenolic substances have demonstrated beneficial results in various studies and are presently undergoing clinical investigation to treat neurological diseases (NDs). The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the different aspects of the MAPK pathway involved in neurological conditions, along with an appraisal of the progress made in using polyphenols to regulate the MAPK signaling system to facilitate the management of NDs.

Resveratrol prevents cognitive deficits induced by sleep deprivation via modulating sirtuin 1 associated pathways in the hippocampus

Accumulating evidence confirms that sleep insufficiency is a high risk factor for cognitive impairment, which involves inflammation and synaptic dysfunction. Resveratrol, an agonist of the Sirt1, has demonstrated anti-inflammation and neuroprotective effects in models of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. However, the beneficial effects of resveratrol on sleep deprivation-induced cognitive deficits and its underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. In the present study, thirty-two male C57BL/6 J mice were randomly divided into a Control+DMSO group, Control+Resveratrol group, SD+DMSO group, and SD+Resveratrol group. The mice in the SD+Resveratrol group underwent 5 days of sleep deprivation after pretreatment with resveratrol (50 mg/kg) for 2 weeks, while the mice in the SD+DMSO group only underwent sleep deprivation. After sleep deprivation, we evaluated spatial learning and memory function using the Morris water maze test. We used general molecular biology techniques to detect changes in levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Sirt1/miR-134 pathway-related synaptic plasticity proteins. We found that resveratrol significantly reversed sleep deprivation-induced learning and memory impairment, elevated interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels, and decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor, tyrosine kinase receptor B, postsynaptic density protein-95, and synaptophysin levels by activating the Sirt1/miR-134 pathway. In conclusion, resveratrol is a promising agent for preventing sleep deprivation-induced cognitive dysfunction by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and improving synaptic function via the Sirt1/miR-134 pathway.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase PTPRO represses lung adenocarcinoma progression by inducing mitochondria-dependent apoptosis and restraining tumor metastasis

Emerging evidence indicates that protein activities regulated by receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (RPTPs) are crucial for a variety of cellular processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, and immunological response. Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O (PTPRO), an RPTP, has been revealed as a putative suppressor in the development of particular tumors. However, the function and the underlying mechanisms of PTPRO in regulating of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are not well understood. In this view, the present work investigated the role of PTPRO in LUAD. Analysis of 90 pairs of clinical LUAD specimens revealed significantly lower PTPRO levels in LUAD compared with adjacent non-tumor tissue, as well as a negative correlation of PTPRO expression with tumor size and TNM stage. Survival analyses demonstrated that PTPRO level can help stratify the prognosis of LUAD patients. Furthermore, PTPRO overexpression was found to suppress the progression of LUAD both in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell death via mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, downregulating protein expression of molecules (Bcl-2, Bax, caspase 3, cleaved-caspase 3/9, cleaved-PARP and Bid) essential in cell survival. Additionally, PTPRO decreased LUAD migration and invasion by regulating proteins involved in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and Snail). Moreover, PTPRO was shown to restrain JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. Expression of PTPRO was negatively correlated with p-JAK2, p-STAT3, Bcl-2, and Snail levels in LUAD tumor samples. Furthermore, the anti-tumor effect of PTPRO in LUAD was significant but compromised in STAT3-deficient cells. These data support the remarkable suppressive role of PTPRO in LUAD, which may represent a viable therapeutic target for LUAD patients.

Advances for pharmacological activities of Polygonum cuspidatum - A review

CONTEXT

Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc (Polygonaceae), the root of which is included in the Chinese Pharmcopoeia under the name 'Huzhang', has a long history as a medicinal plant and vegetable. Polygonum cuspidatum has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammation, hyperlipemia, etc.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the pharmacological action and the clinical applications of Polygonum cuspidatum and its extracts, whether in vivo or in vitro. We also summarized the main phytochemical constituents and pharmacokinetics of Polygonum cuspidatum and its extracts.

METHODS

The data were retrieved from major medical databases, such as CNKI, PubMed, and SinoMed, from 2014 to 2022. Polygonum cuspidatum, pharmacology, toxicity, clinical application, and pharmacokinetics were used as keywords.

RESULTS

The rhizomes, leaves, and flowers of Polygonum cuspidatum have different phytochemical constituents. The plant contains flavonoids, anthraquinones, and stilbenes. Polygonum cuspidatum and the extracts have anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, anticancer, heart protection, and other pharmacological effects. It is used in the clinics to treat dizziness, headaches, traumatic injuries, and water and fire burns.

CONCLUSIONS

Polygonum cuspidatum has the potential to treat many diseases, such as arthritis, ulcerative colitis, asthma, and cardiac hypertrophy. It has a broad range of medicinal applications, but mainly focused on root medication; its aerial parts should receive more attention. Pharmacokinetics also need to be further investigated.

Antioxidant Intervention to Improve Cognition in the Aging Brain: The Example of Hydroxytyrosol and Resveratrol

Both physiological and pathological aging processes induce brain alterations especially affecting the speed of processing, working memory, conceptual reasoning and executive functions. Many therapeutic approaches to reduce the impact of brain aging on cognitive functioning have been tested; unfortunately, there are no satisfactory results as a single therapy. As aging is partly contributed by free radical reactions, it has been proposed that exogenous antioxidants could have a positive impact on both aging and its associated manifestations. The aim of this report is to provide a summary and a subsequent review of the literature evidence on the role of antioxidants in preventing and improving cognition in the aging brain. Manipulation of endogenous cellular defense mechanisms through nutritional antioxidants or pharmacological compounds represents an innovative approach to therapeutic intervention in diseases causing brain tissue damage, such as neurodegeneration. Coherently with this notion, antioxidants, especially those derived from the Mediterranean diet such as hydroxytyrosol and resveratrol, seem to be able to delay and modulate the cognitive brain aging processes and decrease the occurrence of its effects on the brain. The potential preventive activity of antioxidants should be evaluated in long-term exposure clinical trials, using preparations with high bioavailability, able to bypass the blood-brain barrier limitation, and that are well standardized.

Neuronutraceuticals Combating Neuroinflammaging: Molecular Insights and Translational Challenges—A Systematic Review

Neuropathologies, such as neuroinflammaging, have arisen as a serious concern for preserving the quality of life due to the global increase in neurodegenerative illnesses. Nowadays, neuronutraceuticals have gained remarkable attention. It is necessary to investigate the bioavailability, off-target effects, and mechanism of action of neuronutraceuticals. To comprehend the comprehensive impact on brain health, well-designed randomized controlled trials testing combinations of neuronutraceuticals are also necessary. Although there is a translational gap between basic and clinical research, the present knowledge of the molecular perspectives of neuroinflammaging and neuronutraceuticals may be able to slow down brain aging and to enhance cognitive performance. The present review also highlights the key emergent issues, such as regulatory and scientific concerns of neuronutraceuticals, including bioavailability, formulation, blood–brain permeability, safety, and efficacy.

The Beneficial Roles of SIRT1 in Neuroinflammation-Related Diseases

Sirtuins are the class III of histone deacetylases whose deacetylate of histones is dependent on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). Among seven sirtuins, SIRT1 plays a critical role in modulating a wide range of physiological processes, including apoptosis, DNA repair, inflammatory response, metabolism, cancer, and stress. Neuroinflammation is associated with many neurological diseases, including ischemic stroke, bacterial infections, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Recently, numerous studies indicate the protective effects of SIRT1 in neuroinflammation-related diseases. Here, we review the latest progress regarding the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of SIRT1. First, we introduce the structure, catalytic mechanism, and functions of SIRT1. Next, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of SIRT1 in the regulation of neuroinflammation. Finally, we analyze the mechanisms and effects of SIRT1 in several common neuroinflammation-associated diseases, such as cerebral ischemia, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, AD, and PD. Taken together, this information implies that SIRT1 may serve as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of neuroinflammation-associated disorders.

Resveratrol attenuates hypoxia-induced neuronal cell death, inflammation and mitochondrial oxidative stress by modulation of TRPM2 channel

Hypoxia (HYPX) induced-overload Ca²⁺ entry results in increase of mitochondrial oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in several neurons. Ca²⁺ permeable TRPM2 channel was gated by ADP-ribose (ADPR) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), although its activity was modulated in HYPX-exposed neurons by resveratrol (RSV). The aim of this study was to evaluate if a therapy of RSV can modulate the effect of HYPX in the TRPM2 expressing SH-SY5Y neuronal and HEK293 (no expression of TRPM2) cell lines. The SH-SY5Y and HEK293 cells were divided into four groups as control, RSV (50 μM and 24 hours), and HYPX and RSV + HYPX. For induction of HYPX in the cells, CoCl₂ (200 μM and 24 hours) incubation was used. HYPX-induced intracellular Ca²⁺ responses to TRPM2 activation were increased in the SH-SY5Y cells but not in the HEK293 cells from coming H₂O₂ and ADPR. RSV treatment improved intracellular Ca²⁺ responses, mitochondrial function, suppressed the generation of cytokine (IL-1β and TNF-α), cytosolic and mitochondrial ROS in the SH-SY5Y cells. Intracellular free Zn²⁺, apoptosis, cell death, PARP-1, TRPM2 expression, caspase −3 and −9 levels are increased through activating TRPM2 in the SH-SY5Y cells exposed to the HYPX. However, the values were decreased in the cells by RSV and TRPM2 blockers (ACA and 2-APB). In SH-SY5Y neuronal cells exposed to HYPX conditions, the neuroprotective effects of RSV were shown to be exerted via modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and death through modulation of TRPM2 channel. RSV could be used as an effective agent in the treatment of neurodegeneration exposure to HYPX.

SIRT1-regulated HMGB1 release is partially involved in TLR4 signal transduction: A possible anti-neuroinflammatory mechanism of resveratrol in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) is a knotty disease that lacks appropriate treatment. Inflammation is an important contributor to brain damage, and microglia are responsible for eliciting early and pronounced inflammatory reactions in the immature brain after hypoxic-ischemic (HI) insult. Acetylated HMGB1 can be released from immune cells into the extracellular space, where it acts as a danger-associated molecular pattern molecule to activate TLR4 signalling-mediated inflammatory responses. Resveratrol has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects against HIBI, but whether these effects involve the regulation of the TLR4 signalling pathway and whether HMGB1 participates in this process is still unclear. We investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol in HIBI and the molecular mechanisms potentially involved in the effect. The in vivo and in vitro results indicated that the level of cytoplasmic HMGB1 in microglia increased after insult and that treating experimental animals or mouse BV2 microglial cells with resveratrol attenuated HI insult-induced neuroinflammation, which was characterized by improved behavioural defects, reduced microglial activation and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signalling, and attenuated primary neuronal damage; this was accompanied by the inhibition of HMGB1 nucleoplasmic transfer and extracellular release. EX527 pretreatment reversed these effects. In addition, co-immunoprecipitation confirmed that SIRT1 was directly involved in the HMGB1 acetylation process in BV2 cells after oxygen glucose deprivation. These data demonstrate that resveratrol plays a neuroprotective role in neonatal HIBI by activating SIRT1 to inhibit HMGB1/TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signalling and subsequent neuroinflammatory responses.

Natural Inhibitors on Over-Activation of Microglia from Herbals

Neuroinflammation manifested by over-activation of microglial cells plays an essential role in neurodegenerative diseases. Short-term activation of microglia can be beneficial, but chronically activated microglia can aggravate neuronal dysfunction possibly by secreting potentially cytotoxic substances such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO), which can result in dysfunction and death of neurons. Therefore inhibiting over-activation of microglia and the production of cytotoxic intermediates may become an effective therapeutic approach for neuroinflammation. In this paper, we review our continuous research on natural inhibitors of over-activated microglia from traditional herbals, including flavonoids, lignans, sesquiterpene coumarins, and stilbenes.

Targeting pro-senescence mitogen activated protein kinase (Mapk) enzymes with bioactive natural compounds

Aging is a multifactorial universal process characterized by a gradual decrease in physiological and biochemical functions. Given that life expectancy is on the rise, a better understanding of molecular mechanisms of the aging process is necessary in order to develop anti-aging interventions. Uncontrolled cellular senescence promotes persistent inflammation and accelerates the aging process by decreasing tissue renewal, repair and regeneration. Senescence of immune cells, immunesenescence, is another hallmark of aging. Targeting pro-senescent enzymes increases survival and therefore the lifespan. Although the upregulation of Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) enzymes in aging is still controversial, increasing evidence shows that dysregulation of those enzymes are associated with biological processes that contribute to aging such as irreversible senescence. In this manuscript components of the MAPK pathway will be summarized, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38, as well as natural flavonoids, phenolic and diterpenoids with anti-senescence activity that shows positive effects on longevity and MAPK inhibition. Although more studies using additional aging models are needed, we suggest that these selected natural bioactive compounds that regulate MAPK enzymes and reduce senescent cells can be potentially used to improve longevity and prevent/treat age-related diseases.

Aging, Immunity, and Neuroinflammation: The Modulatory Potential of Nutrition

Aging influences an organism’s entire physiology, affecting functions at the molecular, cellular, and systemic levels and increasing susceptibility to many major chronic diseases. The changes in the immune system that accompany human aging are very complex and are generally referred to as immunosenescence. The factors and mechanisms of immunosenescence are multiple and include, among others, defects in the bone marrow, thymic involution, and intrinsic defects in the formation, maturation, homeostasis, and migration of peripheral lymphocytes. Aging affects both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. The process of aging is commonly accompanied by low-grade inflammation thought to contribute to neuroinflammation and to many age-related diseases. Numerous attempts to define the role of chronic inflammation in aging have implicated chronic oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, immunosenescence, epigenetic modifications, and other phenomena. Several lifestyle strategies, such as intervening to provide an adequate diet and physical and mental activity, have been shown to result in improved immune and neuroprotective functions, a decrease in oxidative stress and inflammation, and a potential increase in individual longevity. The studies published thus far describe a critical role for nutrition in maintaining the immune response of the aged, but they also indicate the need for a more in-depth, holistic approach to determining the optimal nutritional and behavioral strategies that would maintain immune and other physiological systems in elderly people. In this chapter, we focus first on the age-related changes of the immune system. Further, we discuss possible deleterious influences of immunosenescence and low-grade inflammation (inflammaging) on neurodegenerative processes in the normally aging brain. Finally, we consider our current understanding of the modulatory potential of nutrition that may mediate anti-inflammatory effects and thus positively affect immunity and the aging brain.

Microglia metabolism in health and disease

In the last decade tremendous progress has been made in understanding how the immune system reacts to insults. During this progress it became obvious that those immune responses are tightly regulated and cross-linked with distinct metabolic changes in immune cells. Extensive research has been conducted mainly on subtypes of T cells, which use different metabolic pathways during differentiation processes and activation states. In addition, it has also been established later, that the innate immune cell lineage of myeloid cells includes a variety of different subsets of bone marrow-derived as well as tissue-specific macrophages, which elicit much more functions than simply killing bacteria. To execute this high variety of functions, also macrophages use different metabolic pathways and are tightly regulated by key metabolic regulators, such as the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Upon activation, metabolic changes within the cell occur to meet the requirements of the phenotypic switch. In addition, metabolic changes correlate with the ability of innate immune cells to show hallmarks of adaptive immune responses. Little is known about specific metabolic changes of myeloid cells and specifically microglia in vivo. Microglia are key players in neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases and have become a major target of medical research. Here, we review the existing data on microglia metabolism and the connection of microglia phenotypes with neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Lastly, we will discuss how our knowledge about the cellular metabolism might be used to develop new treatment options for neurological diseases.

Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Resveratrol in Alzheimer's Disease: Role of SIRT1

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and neurodegenerative disorder of the cortex and hippocampus, which eventually leads to cognitive impairment. Although the etiology of AD remains unclear, the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides in these learning and memory regions is a hallmark of AD. Therefore, the inhibition of Aβ peptide aggregation has been considered the primary therapeutic strategy for AD treatment. Many studies have shown that resveratrol has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties and can decrease the toxicity and aggregation of Aβ peptides in the hippocampus of AD patients, promote neurogenesis, and prevent hippocampal damage. In addition, the antioxidant activity of resveratrol plays an important role in neuronal differentiation through the activation of silent information regulator-1 (SIRT1). SIRT1 plays a vital role in the growth and differentiation of neurons and prevents the apoptotic death of these neurons by deacetylating and repressing p53 activity; however, the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Resveratrol also has anti-inflammatory effects as it suppresses M1 microglia activation, which is involved in the initiation of neurodegeneration, and promotes Th2 responses by increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines and SIRT1 expression. This review will focus on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory neuroprotective effects of resveratrol, specifically on its role in SIRT1 and the association with AD pathophysiology.

High Expression of Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 8 (USP8) Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND Cervical cancer is one of the most common female malignancies in the world. The ubiquitin-specific protease 8 (USP8) functions by removing ubiquitin from protein substrates, and its potential role in cancer development was recently uncovered in lung cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and function of USP8 in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS Immunohistochemical staining and quantitative PCR were performed to explore the expression of USP8 in both CSCC tissues and adjacent normal cervical tissues. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the clinical significance of USP8 in CSCC. Proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of 2 CSCC cell lines were assessed after overexpression or silencing USP8, respectively. RESULTS Both the RNA and protein levels of USP8 were upregulated in CSCC tissues compared to normal cervical tissues. High expression of USP8 was correlated with advanced tumor stage and high recurrence risk. Moreover, USP8 was identified as a novel independent prognostic factor for CSCC patients. Cellular studies showed that USP8 can enhance the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of CSCC cells, thereby promoting tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS High expression of USP8 is frequent in CSCC tissues, which promotes tumor proliferation and invasion, and is correlated with a poor overall survival. Targeting USP8 may be a novel direction for drug development for CSCC therapy.

TEAD4 exerts pro-metastatic effects and is negatively regulated by miR6839-3p in lung adenocarcinoma progression

Several studies have shown the tumorigenesis role of transcriptional enhancer associate domain (TEAD) proteins; here, we initially explored expression, function and signalling mechanisms of TEAD4 in lung adenocarcinoma (LAD). Both the mRNA and protein levels of TEAD4 were increased in LAD tissues than those in adjacent nontumourous tissues. Besides, database search indicated a poorer clinical outcome in LAD patients with higher TEAD4 expression, revealing its potential tumour-promoting role. Therefore, we conducted cellular experiments to further investigate its effect on tumour phenotypes. Accordingly, TEAD4 showed little impact on LAD cell cycle, proliferation, or apoptosis. However, silencing TEAD4 remarkably attenuated cell migration and invasion capacities. Consistently, several important epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers such as E-cadherin and Slug were consequently altered by silencing TEAD4. Furthermore, we identified a novel TEAD4-targeted microRNA, namely miR6839-3p, and confirmed its function in suppressing TEAD4 expression. Finally, the impact of overexpressing miR6839-3p mimics on LAD progression was validated, which showed a similar pattern with TEAD4 knockdown cells. Taken together, our data not only revealed the significant role of TEAD4 in promoting LAD progression and predicting clinical outcome but also distinguished miR6839-3p mimics as a promising therapeutic direction.

Resveratrol attenuates neurological deficit and neuroinflammation following intracerebral hemorrhage

Resveratrol (RESV) improves histopathological and behavioral outcomes in diseases of the central nervous system. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no studies investigating its neuroprotective effects on secondary brain injury following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the neuroprotective function of resveratrol following ICH. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: Sham, ICH and ICH+RESV groups. Rats underwent ICH and received an intraperitoneal injection of RESV daily. Rotarod and open field tests were performed to evaluate improvements in motor disturbance pre- and post-surgery. Rats were sacrificed following the final behavioral test; subsequently, neuron injury and cell death in the hippocampus and microglia activation in the cortex were determined using Nissl staining and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Compared with the ICH group, rats treated with resveratrol for 2 weeks performed significantly better in behavioral tests. Furthermore, less neural damage in the hippocampus and decreased activation of microglia was observed in the ICH+RESV group. The results of the present study therefore indicate that resveratrol may alleviate secondary brain injury following ICH.

Resveratrol Attenuates Early Brain Injury after Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage via Inhibition of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Previous studies have demonstrated resveratrol (RSV) has beneficial effects in early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, the beneficial effects of RSV and the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly identified. The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation plays a crucial role in the EBI pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of RSV on the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway and EBI in rats after SAH. A prechiasmatic cistern injection model was established in rats, and the primary cultured cortical neurons were stimulated with oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) to induce SAH in vitro. It showed that the NLRP3 inflammasome components, including NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), caspase-1, mature interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) were upregulated after SAH, and the enhanced NLRP3 after SAH was mainly located in microglia. Treatment with 60 or 90 mg/kg RSV after SAH dramatically inhibited the expression of NLRP3, but there was no significant difference in the expression of NLRP3 between the SAH + 60 mg/kg RSV and SAH + 90 mg/kg RSV groups. In addition, treatment with 30 mg/kg RSV did not significantly reduced the expression of NLRP3. We next evaluated the neuroprotective effects of RSV against SAH. We determined that SAH-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation was significantly inhibited in the SAH + 60 mg/kg RSV group. Meanwhile, 60 mg/kg RSV administration could markedly inhibit microglia activation and neutrophils infiltration after SAH. Concomitant with the decreased cerebral inflammation, RSV evidently reduced cortical apoptosis, brain edema, and neurobehavioral impairment after SAH. In vitro experiments, RSV treatment also clearly protected primary cortical neurons against oxyHb insults, including reduced the proportion of neuronal apoptosis, alleviated neuronal degeneration, and improved cell viabilities. These in vitro data further confirm that RSV has an efficient neuroprotection against SAH. Taken together, these in vivo and in vitro findings suggested RSV could protect against EBI after SAH, at least partially via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway.

Resveratrol Attenuates Neurodegeneration and Improves Neurological Outcomes after Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating type of stroke with a substantial public health impact. Currently, there is no effective treatment for ICH. The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether the post-injury administration of Resveratrol confers neuroprotection in a pre-clinical model of ICH. To this end, ICH was induced in adult male CD1 mice by collagenase injection method. Resveratrol (10 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered at 30 min post-induction of ICH and the neurobehavioral outcome, neurodegeneration, cerebral edema, hematoma resolution and neuroinflammation were assessed. The Resveratrol treatment significantly attenuated acute neurological deficits, neurodegeneration and cerebral edema after ICH in comparison to vehicle treated controls. Further, Resveratrol treated mice exhibited improved hematoma resolution with a concomitant reduction in the expression of proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1β after ICH. Altogether, the data suggest the efficacy of post-injury administration of Resveratrol in improving acute neurological function after ICH.

Pharmacological Modulation of Functional Phenotypes of Microglia in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Microglia are the resident innate immune cells of the central nervous system that mediate brain homeostasis maintenance. Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is a hallmark shared by various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Numerous studies have shown microglial activation phenotypes to be heterogeneous; however, these microglial phenotypes can largely be categorized as being either M1 or M2 type. Although the specific classification of M1 and M2 functionally polarized microglia remains a topic for debate, the use of functional modulators of microglial phenotypes as potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases has garnered considerable attention. This review discusses M1 and M2 microglial phenotypes and their relevance in neurodegenerative disease models, as described in recent literature. The modulation of microglial polarization toward the M2 phenotype may lead to development of future therapeutic and preventive strategies for neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, we focus on recent studies of microglial polarization modulators, with a particular emphasis on the small-molecule compounds and their intracellular target proteins.

Resveratrol attenuates skeletal muscle atrophy induced by chronic kidney disease via MuRF1 signaling pathway

Skeletal muscle atrophy is an important clinical characteristic of chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, at present, the therapeutic approaches to muscle atrophy induced by CKD are still at an early stage of development. Resveratrol is used to attenuate muscle atrophy in other experimental models, but the effects on a CKD model are largely unknown. Here, we showed that resveratrol prevented an increase in MuRF1 expression and attenuated muscle atrophy in vivo model of CKD. We also found that phosphorylation of NF-κB was inhibited at the same time. Dexamethasone-induced MuRF1 upregulation was significantly attenuated in C2C12 myotubes by resveratrol in vitro, but this effect on C2C12 myotubes was abrogated by a knockdown of NF-κB, suggesting that the beneficial effect of resveratrol was NF-κB dependent. Our findings provide novel information about the ability of resveratrol to prevent or treat muscle atrophy induced by CKD.

Tryptanthrin Suppresses the Activation of the LPS-Treated BV2 Microglial Cell Line via Nrf2/HO-1 Antioxidant Signaling

Microglia are the resident macrophages in the central nervous system (CNS) and play essential roles in neuronal homeostasis and neuroinflammatory pathologies. Recently, microglia have been shown to contribute decisively to neuropathologic processes after ischemic stroke. Furthermore, natural compounds have been reported to attenuate inflammation and pathologies associated with neuroinflammation. Tryptanthrin (indolo[2,1-b]quinazoline-6,12-dione) is a phytoalkaloid with known anti-inflammatory effects in cells. In present study, the authors confirmed middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) injury triggers the activation of microglia in brain tissue, and investigated whether tryptanthrin influences the function of mouse murine BV2 microglia under LPS-induced inflammatory conditions in vitro. It was found tryptanthrin protected BV2 microglia cells against LPS-induced inflammation and inhibited the induction of M1 phenotype microglia under inflammatory conditions. In addition, tryptanthrin reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in BV2 microglia cells via nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) signaling and NF-κB signaling. The authors suggest that tryptanthrin might alleviate the progress of neuropathologies by controlling microglial functions under neuroinflammatory conditions.

The Polarization States of Microglia in TBI: A New Paradigm for Pharmacological Intervention

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious medical and social problem worldwide. Because of the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of TBI, effective pharmacotherapy is still lacking. The microglial cells are resident tissue macrophages located in the brain and have two major polarization states, M1 phenotype and M2 phenotype, when activated. The M1 phenotype is related to the release of proinflammatory cytokines and secondary brain injury, while the M2 phenotype has been proved to be responsible for the release of anti-inflammation cytokines and for central nervous system (CNS) repair. In animal models, pharmacological strategies inhibiting the M1 phenotype and promoting the M2 phenotype of microglial cells could alleviate cerebral damage and improve neurological function recovery after TBI. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the pathological significance of microglial M1/M2 polarization in the pathophysiology of TBI. In addition, we reviewed several drugs that have provided neuroprotective effects against brain injury following TBI by altering the polarization states of the microglia. We emphasized that future investigation of the regulation mechanisms of microglial M1/M2 polarization in TBI is anticipated, which could contribute to the development of new targets of pharmacological intervention in TBI.

Protective effect of 3-(naphthalen-2-yl(propoxy)methyl)azetidine hydrochloride on hypoxia-induced toxicity by suppressing microglial activation in BV-2 cells

We recently reported the anti-inflammatory effects of 3-(naphthalen-2-yl(propoxy)methyl)azetidine hydrochloride (KHG26792) on the ATP-induced activation of the NFAT and MAPK pathways through the P2X7 receptor in microglia. To further investigate the underlying mechanism of KHG26792, we studied its protective effects on hypoxia-induced toxicity in microglia. The administration of KHG26792 significantly reduced the hypoxia-induced expression and activity of caspase-3 in BV-2 microglial cells. KHG26792 also reduced hypoxia-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression, which correlated with reduced nitric oxide accumulation. In addition, KHG26792 attenuated hypoxia-induced protein nitration, reactive oxygen species production, and NADPH oxidase activity. These effects were accompanied by the suppression of hypoxia-induced protein expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha and NADPH oxidase-2. Although the clinical relevance of our findings remains to be determined, these data results suggest that KHG26792 prevents hypoxia-induced toxicity by suppressing microglial activation.

Dietary Phytochemicals in Neuroimmunoaging: A New Therapeutic Possibility for Humans?

Although several efforts have been made in the search for genetic and epigenetic patterns linked to diseases, a comprehensive explanation of the mechanisms underlying pathological phenotypic plasticity is still far from being clarified. Oxidative stress and inflammation are two of the major triggers of the epigenetic alterations occurring in chronic pathologies, such as neurodegenerative diseases. In fact, over the last decade, remarkable progress has been made to realize that chronic, low-grade inflammation is one of the major risk factor underlying brain aging. Accumulated data strongly suggest that phytochemicals from fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices may exert relevant immunomodulatory and/or anti-inflammatory activities in the context of brain aging. Starting by the evidence that a common denominator of aging and chronic degenerative diseases is represented by inflammation, and that several dietary phytochemicals are able to potentially interfere with and regulate the normal function of cells, in particular neuronal components, aim of this review is to summarize recent studies on neuroinflammaging processes and proofs indicating that specific phytochemicals may act as positive modulators of neuroinflammatory events. In addition, critical pathways involved in mediating phytochemicals effects on neuroinflammaging were discussed, exploring the real impact of these compounds in preserving brain health before the onset of symptoms leading to inflammatory neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.

Systematic Review of Traumatic Brain Injury and the Impact of Antioxidant Therapy on Clinical Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an acquired brain injury that occurs when there is sudden trauma that leads to brain damage. This acute complex event can happen when the head is violently or suddenly struck or an object pierces the skull or brain. The current principal treatment of TBI includes various pharmaceutical agents, hyperbaric oxygen, and hypothermia. There is evidence that secondary injury from a TBI is specifically related to oxidative stress. However, the clinical management of TBI often does not include antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress and prevent secondary injury.

AIMS

The purpose of this article is to examine current literature regarding the use of antioxidant therapies in treating TBI. This review evaluates the evidence of antioxidant therapy as an adjunctive treatment used to reduce the underlying mechanisms involved in secondary TBI injury.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature published between January 2005 and September 2015 was conducted. Five databases were searched including CINAHL, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and Web of Science.

FINDINGS

Critical evaluation of the six studies that met inclusion criteria suggests that antioxidant therapies such as amino acids, vitamins C and E, progesterone, N-acetylcysteine, and enzogenol may be safe and effective adjunctive therapies in adult patients with TBI. Although certain limitations were found, the overall trend of using antioxidant therapies to improve the clinical outcomes of TBI was positive.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

By incorporating antioxidant therapies into practice, clinicians can help attenuate the oxidative posttraumatic brain damage and optimize patients' recovery.

Resveratrol suppresses glial activation and alleviates trigeminal neuralgia via activation of AMPK

Background

Glial activation and neuroinflammation in the spinal trigeminal nucleus (STN) play a pivotal role in the genesis and maintenance of trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Resveratrol, a natural compound from grape and red wine, has a potential anti-inflammatory effect. We hypothesized that resveratrol could significantly suppress neuroinflammation in the STN mediated by glial activation and further relieve TN. In this study, we evaluated whether resveratrol could alleviate trigeminal allodynia and explore the mechanism underlying the antinociceptive effect of resveratrol.

Methods

Animals were orally injected with resveratrol after chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the infraorbital nerve. Mechanical thresholds of the affected whisker pad were measured to assess nociceptive behaviors. The STN was harvested to quantify the changing levels of p-NR1, p-PKC, TNF-α, and IL1-β by western blotting and detect the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and c-Fos by immunofluorescence. Glial activation was observed by immunofluorescence and western blotting. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation in vivo and in vitro was examined by western blotting.

Results

We found that resveratrol significantly attenuated trigeminal allodynia dose-dependently and decreased the increased expression of CGRP and c-Fos in the STN. Additionally, resveratrol showed an inhibitory effect on CCI-evoked astrocyte and microglia activation and reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the STN. Furthermore, the antinociceptive effect of resveratrol was partially mediated by reduced phosphorylation of MAP kinases via adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation.

Conclusions

AMPK activation in the STN glia via resveratrol has utility in the treatment of CCI-induced neuroinflammation and further implicates AMPK as a novel target for the attenuation of trigeminal neuralgia.