Morin hydrate ameliorates cisplatin-induced ER stress, inflammation and autophagy in HEK-293 cells and mice kidney via PARP-1 regulation

Ferroptosis is involved in cisplatin sensitivity of the S3 segment of immortalized proximal tubule cells

Cisplatin (CDDP) is administered as an anticancer drug across a broad spectrum of cancer treatments, but it causes severe renal damage. Several studies have attempted to elucidate the cause of CDDP-induced renal injury, but the detailed mechanism remains unclear. We previously found that S3 cells are more sensitive to CDDP than S1 and S2 cells by using immortalized cells derived from S1, S2, and S3 segments of proximal tubules. In this study, we investigated the potential contribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to the sensitivity of S3 cells to CDDP. The results showed that S3 cells have high sensitivity to CDDP, paraquat (PQ) and three ROS substances. To examine the mechanisms underlying the sensitivity to ROS in S3 cells, we compared the cellular responses of CDDP- and PQ-exposed S3 cells. The results indicated that the levels of intracellular ROS and lipid peroxides were increased in S3 cells after CDDP and PQ exposure. The intracellular levels of antioxidant proteins such as thioredoxin, thioredoxin reductase 1 and glutathione peroxidase 4 were also increased by exposure to PQ, but these proteins were decreased by CDDP exposure in S3 cells. Furthermore, the levels of intracellular free Fe2+ were increased by CDDP exposure only in S3 cells but not S1 or S2 cells, and cytotoxicity by exposure to CDDP in S3 cells was suppressed by ferroptosis inhibitors. These results suggested that the induction of ferroptosis due to the ROS production through attenuation of the antioxidant system and elevated free Fe2+ is partly responsible for the sensitivity of S3 cells to CDDP.

4'-O-methylbavachalcone alleviates ischemic stroke injury by inhibiting parthanatos and promoting SIRT3

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) can induce massive death of ischemic penumbra neurons via oxygen burst, exacerbating brain damage. Parthanatos is a form of caspase-independent cell death involving excessive activation of PARP-1, closely associated with intense oxidative stress following CIRI. 4'-O-methylbavachalcone (MeBavaC), an isoprenylated chalcone component in Fructus Psoraleae, has potential neuroprotective effects. This study primarily investigates whether MeBavaC can act on SIRT3 to alleviate parthanatos of ischemic penumbra neurons induced by CIRI. MeBavaC was oral gavaged to the middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO/R) rats after occlusion. The effects of MeBavaC on cerebral injury were detected by the neurological deficit score and cerebral infarct volume. In vitro, PC-12 cells were subjected to oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R), and assessed cell viability and cell injury. Also, the levels of ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and intracellular Ca2+ levels were detected to reflect mitochondrial function. We conducted western blotting analyses of proteins involved in parthanatos and related signaling pathways. Finally, the exact mechanism between the neuroprotection of MeBavaC and parthanatos was explored. Our results indicate that MeBavaC reduces the cerebral infarct volume and neurological deficit scores in MCAO/R rats, and inhibits the decreased viability of PC-12 cells induced by OGD/R. MeBavaC also downregulates the expression of parthanatos-related death proteins PARP-1, PAR, and AIF. However, this inhibitory effect is weakened after the use of a SIRT3 inhibitor. In conclusion, the protective effect of MeBavaC against CIRI may be achieved by inhibiting parthanatos of ischemic penumbra neurons through the SIRT3-PARP-1 axis.

A combined in vitro and molecular dynamics simulation studies unveil the molecular basis of the anticancer potential of piperine targeting AKT1 against prostate cancer

The present study investigates the activity of the natural compound piperine on prostate cancer cell line (PC-3), followed by exploring its mechanistic inhibition on the RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1) protein. The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay showed that after 24 hrs of exposure to piperine (15 µmol/ml), cell viability fell to 50% compared to the standard drug flutamide (SDF) (51 µmol/ml) with a lower IC50 concentration. However, the Dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EtBr) staining demonstrated that, as compared to the SDF, piperine caused substantial cellular death in PC-3 cells, presumably by triggering DNA fragmentation. In addition, compared to untreated cells, the proportion of the sub-G0/G1 and G2/M stages population increased considerably in piperine-treated cells. The cell cycle's sub-G0/G1 and G2/M phases were also arrested in piperine-treated cells compared to the SDF in cell cycle analysis. Based on our systems pharmacology and molecular docking studies, AKT1 is predicted as a potential target against piperine. The complementary charge between AKT1 and piperine was emphasized in the transient ligand-protein binding interaction in molecular dynamic modeling over 100 ns, and stable hydrogen bond interaction between Lys268 and Ser205 amino acid residues of the active pocket was hypothesized. Overall, the findings from our in vitro and MD simulations provide insights into the mechanism of piperine targeting AKT1 and offer a possible candidate for future prostate cancer therapeutic development.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Indole-3-carboxaldehyde alleviates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in mice by improving mitochondrial dysfunction via PKA activation

Cisplatin (DDP) is widely used in the treatment of cancer as a chemotherapeutic drug. However, its severe nephrotoxicity limits the extensive application of cisplatin, which is characterized by injury and apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells. This study aimed to reveal the protective effect and its underlying mechanism of Indole-3-carboxaldehyde (IC) against DDP-induced AKI in mice and NRK-52E cells pretreated with PKA antagonist (H-89). Here, we reported that IC improved renal artery blood flow velocity and renal function related indicators, attenuated renal pathological changes, which were confirmed by the results of HE staining and PASM staining. Meanwhile, IC inhibited the levels of inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, CTR1, OCT2, and the levels of autophagy and apoptosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction was significantly improved as observed by TEM. To clarify the potential mechanism, NRK-52E cells induced by DDP was used and the results proved that H-89 could blocked the improvement with IC effectively in vitro. Our findings showed that IC has the potential to treat cisplatin-induced AKI, and its role in protecting the kidney was closely related to activating PKA, inhibiting autophagy and apoptosis, improving mitochondrial function, which could provide a theoretical basis for the development of new clinical drugs.

Morin suppresses mTORc1/IRE-1α/JNK and IP3R-VDAC-1 pathways: Crucial mechanisms in apoptosis and mitophagy inhibition in experimental Huntington's disease, supported by in silico molecular docking simulations

AIMS

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) with aberrant mitochondrial-ER contact (MERC), mitophagy, and apoptosis are interconnected determinants in neurodegenerative diseases. Previously, we proved the potential of Morin hydrate (MH), a potent antioxidant flavonoid, to mitigate Huntington's disease (HD)-3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP) model by modulating glutamate/calpain/Kidins220/BDNF trajectory. Extending our work, we aimed to evaluate its impact on combating the ERS/MERC, mitophagy, and apoptosis.

METHODS

Rats were subjected to 3-NP for 14 days and post-treated with MH and/or the ERS inducer WAG-4S for 7 days. Disease progression was assessed by gross inspection and striatal biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and transmission electron microscopical (TEM) examinations. A molecular docking study was attained to explore MH binding to mTOR, JNK, the kinase domain of IRE1-α, and IP3R.

KEY FINDINGS

MH decreased weight loss and motor dysfunction using open field and rotarod tests. It halted HD degenerative striatal neurons and nucleus/mitochondria ultra-microscopic alterations reflecting neuroprotection. Mechanistically, MH deactivated striatal mTOR/IRE1-α/XBP1s&JNK/IP3R, PINK1/Ubiquitin/Mfn2, and cytochrome c/caspase-3 signaling pathways, besides enhancing p-PGC-1α and p-VDAC1. WAG-4S was able to ameliorate all effects initiated by MH to different extents. Molecular docking simulations revealed promising binding patterns of MH and hence its potential inhibition of the studied proteins, especially mTOR, IP3R, and JNK.

SIGNIFICANCE

MH alleviated HD-associated ERS, MERC, mitophagy, and apoptosis. This is mainly achieved by combating the mTOR/IRE1-α signaling, IP3R/VDAC hub, PINK1/Ubiquitin/Mfn2, and cytochrome c/caspase 3 axis to be worsened by WAG-4S. Molecular docking simulations showed the promising binding of MH to mTOR and JNK as novel identified targets.

Isoliquiritigenin pretreatment regulates ER stress and attenuates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat solid tumors. However, studies have revealed its nephrotoxic effect. Oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in CP-induced renal damage. Thus, preconditioning (hormetic effect) of ER stress is a strategy to prevent CP-induced renal damage. On the other hand, isoliquiritigenin (IsoLQ) is recognized as a flavonoid with antioxidant properties and an inducer of ER stress. Therefore, we evaluated the ER stress-inducing capacity of IsoLQ and its possible protective effect against CP-induced nephrotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. The findings reflected that IsoLQ pretreatment might decrease renal damage by reducing plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in animals with CP-induced nephrotoxicity. These may be associated with IsoLQ activating ER stress and unfolded protein response (UPR). We found increased messenger RNA levels of the ER stress marker glucose-related protein 78 kDa (GRP78). In addition, we also found that pretreatment with IsoLQ reduced the levels of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-homologous protein (CHOP) and X-box-binding protein 1 (XBP1) in the renal cortex, reflecting that IsoLQ can regulate the UPR and activation of the apoptotic pathway. Moreover, this preconditioning with IsoLQ of ER stress had oxidative stress-regulatory effects, as it restored the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymes. Finally, IsoLQ modifies the protein expression of mitofusin 2 (Mfn-2) and voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC). In conclusion, these data suggest that IsoLQ pretreatment has a nephroprotective effect; it could functionally regulate the ER and mitochondria and reduce CP-induced renal damage by attenuating hormesis-mediated ER stress.

The underlying mechanisms of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and its therapeutic intervention using natural compounds

Cisplatin is an effective chemotherapeutic drug widely used for the treatment of various solid tumors; however, its clinical use and efficacy are limited by its inherent nephrotoxicity. The pathogenesis of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is complex and has not been fully elucidated. Cellular uptake and transport, DNA damage, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and autophagy are involved in the development of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Currently, despite some deficiencies, hydration regimens remain the major protective measures against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Therefore, effective drugs must be explored and developed to prevent and treat cisplatin-induced kidney injury. In recent years, many natural compounds with high efficiency and low toxicity have been identified for the treatment of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, including quercetin, saikosaponin D, berberine, resveratrol, and curcumin. These natural agents have multiple targets, multiple effects, and low drug resistance; therefore, they can be safely used as a supplementary regimen or combination therapy for cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. This review aimed to comprehensively describe the molecular mechanisms underlying cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and summarize natural kidney-protecting compounds to provide new ideas for the development of better therapeutic agents.

Silver(I) Bromide Phosphines Induce Mitochondrial-Mediated Apoptosis in Malignant Human Colorectal Cells

Due to its emerging resistance to current therapies, colon cancer remains one of the most difficult types of cancer to treat. Silver, a non-invasive metal, is well-known for its antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. Two novel silver(I) phosphine complexes, [silver(I) diphenyl-2-pyridylphosphine]Br (1) and [silver(I) is 4-(dimethylamino)phenyldiphenylphosphine]Br (2), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C, 31P). To assess the complexes' potentials as antiproliferative agents, experiments were conducted on human colorectal cancer cells (HT-29) in vitro. The evaluation involved the analysis of morphological changes, the performance of an alamarBlue® proliferation assay, and the undertaking of flow cytometric analyses to detect mitochondrial alterations. Complex 1 displayed superior selectivity and significant inhibitory effects on malignant HT-29 cells while exhibiting minimal toxicity towards two non-malignant HEK-293 and MRHF cells. Moreover, after 24 h of treatment, complex 1 (IC50, 7.49 µM) demonstrated higher efficacy in inhibiting cell proliferation compared with complex 2 (IC50, 21.75 µM) and CDDP (IC50, 200.96 µM). Flow cytometric studies indicated that complex 1 induced regulated cell death, likely through mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Treatment with complex 1 induced morphological changes indicative of apoptosis, which includes membrane blebbing, PS externalization, increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane depolarization (ΔΨm). These observations suggest that complex 1 targets the mitochondria and holds promise as a novel metal-based anti-cancer therapeutic for the selective treatment of colorectal cancer.

TRPA1 promotes cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury via regulating the endoplasmic reticulum stress-mitochondrial damage

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is a widely used and effective chemotherapeutic agent against cancer. However, nephrotoxicity is one of the most common side effects of cisplatin, and it can proceed to acute kidney injury (AKI). Studies have reported that activation of transient receptor potential ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) mediates cisplatin-induced renal tubular cytotoxic injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of TRPA1 in promoting cisplatin-induced AKI through modulation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-mitochondrial damage.

METHODS

A cisplatin-induced HK-2 cell model in vitro and mouse model in vivo were established. The mechanism of TRPA1 promotes AKI was elucidated by H&E staining, TUNEL staining, transmission electron microscope (TEM), immunofluorescence, CCK-8 viability assays, flow cytometry, Western blotting, JC-1 assay, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULT

In vivo and in vitro, HC-030031 reduced cisplatin-induced Scr and BUN level elevations; improved cisplatin-induced renal tissue injury, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction; elevated the reduced ERS-associated proteins glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), glucose-regulated protein 75 (GRP75), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) levels induced by cisplatin; reduced the elevated optic atrophy 1 (OPA1), mito-fusion 1 (MFN1), and mito-fusion 2 (MFN2) protein levels, and elevated phospho-dynamin-related protein 1 (p-DRP1) and mitochondrial fission factor (MFF) protein levels. HC-030031 also reduced the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM) structure. In addition, TRPA1 agonists also decreased cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and triggered mitochondrial dysfunction and calcium overload in HK-2 cells via modulation of MAM. ERS inhibitors and GRP75 inhibitors reversed these changes caused by TRPA1 agonists.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that TRPA1 enhances cisplatin-induced AKI via modulation of ERS and mitochondrial damage.

Cytosine-phosphate-guanine oligodeoxynucleotides alleviate radiation-induced kidney injury in cervical cancer by inhibiting DNA damage and oxidative stress through blockade of PARP1/XRCC1 axis

BACKGROUND

Radiotherapy can cause kidney injury in patients with cervical cancer. This study aims to investigate the possible molecular mechanisms by which CpG-ODNs (Cytosine phosphate guanine-oligodeoxynucleotides) regulate the PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1)/XRCC1 (X-ray repair cross-complementing 1) signaling axis and its impact on radiation kidney injury (RKI) in cervical cancer radiotherapy.

METHODS

The GSE90627 dataset related to cervical cancer RKI was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Bioinformatics databases and R software packages were used to analyze the target genes regulated by CpG-ODNs. A mouse model of RKI was established by subjecting C57BL/6JNifdc mice to X-ray irradiation. Serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were measured using an automated biochemical analyzer. Renal tissue morphology was observed through HE staining, while TUNEL staining was performed to detect apoptosis in renal tubular cells. ELISA was conducted to measure levels of oxidative stress-related factors in mouse serum and cell supernatant. An in vitro cell model of RKI was established using X-ray irradiation on HK-2 cells for mechanism validation. RT-qPCR was performed to determine the relative expression of PARP1 mRNA. Cell proliferation activity was assessed using the CCK-8 assay, and Caspase 3 activity was measured in HK-2 cells. Immunofluorescence was used to determine γH2AX expression.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the downstream targets regulated by CpG-ODNs in cervical cancer RKI were primarily PARP1 and XRCC1. CpG-ODNs may alleviate RKI by inhibiting DNA damage and oxidative stress levels. This resulted in significantly decreased levels of BUN and creatinine in RKI mice, as well as reduced renal tubular and glomerular damage, lower apoptosis rate, decreased DNA damage index (8-OHdG), and increased levels of antioxidant factors associated with oxidative stress (SOD, CAT, GSH, GPx). Among the CpG-ODNs, CpG-ODN2006 had a more pronounced effect. CpG-ODNs mediated the inhibition of PARP1, thereby suppressing DNA damage and oxidative stress response in vitro in HK-2 cells. Additionally, PARP1 promoted the formation of the PARP1 and XRCC1 complex by recruiting XRCC1, which in turn facilitated DNA damage and oxidative stress response in renal tubular cells. Overexpression of either PARP1 or XRCC1 reversed the inhibitory effects of CpG-ODN2006 on DNA damage and oxidative stress in the HK-2 cell model and RKI mouse model.

CONCLUSION

CpG-ODNs may mitigate cervical cancer RKI by blocking the activation of the PARP1/XRCC1 signaling axis, inhibiting DNA damage and oxidative stress response in renal tubule epithelial cells.

Morin exhibits a neuroprotective effect in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease model via TFEB/AMPK-mediated mitophagy

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases in the world. Mitophagy has been implicated in PD etiology for decades and its pharmacological activation is recognized as a promising treatment strategy for PD. For mitophagy initiation, low mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) is essential. We identified a natural compound morin that could induce mitophagy without affecting ΔΨm. Morin is a flavonoid that can be isolated from fruits like mulberry.

PURPOSE

To reveal the effect of morin on the PD mice model and their potential underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

Mitophagy process induced by morin in N2a cells meditation were measured using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. JC-1 fluorescence dye used to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). The TFEB nuclear translocation were examined by immunofluorescence staining and western blot assay. The PD mice model was induced by MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) intraperitoneal administration.

RESULTS

We found that morin also promoted nuclear translocation of the mitophagy regulator TFEB and activated the AMPK-ULK1 pathway. In MPTP-induced PD in vivo models, morin protected DA neurons from MPTP neurotoxicity and ameliorated behavioral deficit.

CONCLUSION

Although morin was previously reported to be neuroprotective in PD, the detailed molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. For the first time, we report morin served as a novel and safe mitophagy enhancer underlying AMPK-ULK1 pathway and exhibited anti-Parkinsonian effects indicating its potential as a clinical drug for PD treatment.

Cisplatin-induced ototoxicity: From signaling network to therapeutic targets

Administration of cisplatin, a common chemotherapeutic drug, has an inevitable side effect of sensorineural hearing loss. The main etiologies are stria vascularis injury, spiral ganglion degeneration, and hair cell death. Over several decades, the research scope of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity has expanded with the discovery of the molecular mechanism mediating inner ear cell death, highlighting the roles of reactive oxygen species and transport channels for cisplatin uptake into inner ear cells. Upon entering hair cells, cisplatin disrupts organelle metabolism, induces oxidative stress, and targets DNA to cause intracellular damage. Recent studies have also reported the role of inflammation in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. In this article, we preform a narrative review of the latest reported molecular mechanisms of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, from extracellular to intracellular. We build up a signaling network starting with cisplatin entering into the inner ear through the blood labyrinth barrier, disrupting cochlear endolymph homeostasis, and activating inflammatory responses of the outer hair cells. After entering the hair cells, cisplatin causes hair cell death via DNA damage, redox system imbalance, and mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction, culminating in programmed cell death including apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagic death, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Based on the mentioned mechanisms, prominent therapeutic targets, such as channel-blocking drugs of cisplatin transporter, construction of cisplatin structural analogues, anti-inflammatory drugs, antioxidants, cell death inhibitors, and others, were collated. Considering the recent research efforts, we have analyzed the feasibility of the aforementioned therapeutic strategies and proposed our otoprotective approaches to overcome cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.

Expression of ER stress markers (GRP78 and PERK) in experimental nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin and gentamicin: roles of inflammatory response and oxidative stress

This study aimed to establish the relationship between two endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress proteins, glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78/BiP) and PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), and oxidative stress markers in cisplatin (CIS)-induced and gentamicin (GEN)-induced nephrotoxicity.The study consisted of five groups: control (saline solution only), CIS D2 (2.5 mg/kg for 2 days), CIS D7 (2.5 mg/kg for 7 days), GEN D2 (160 mg/kg for 2 days), and GEN D7 (160 mg/kg for 7 days). All rats were sacrificed 24 h after the last injection for standard clinical chemistry, and ultrastructural and histological evaluation of the kidney.CIS and GEN increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Cr) levels, as well as total oxidant status (TOS), while decreasing total antioxidant status (TAS) level in CIS D7 and GEN D7 groups. Histopathological and ultrastructural findings were also consistent with renal tubular damage. In addition, expression of markers of renal inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β)) and ER stress markers (GRP78 and PERK) was significantly increased in the kidney tissue of rats treated with CIS and GEN for 7 days.These findings suggest that CIS and GEN administration for 7 days aggravates nephrotoxicity through the enhancement of oxidative stress, inflammation, and ER stress-related markers. As a result, the recommended course of action is to utilize CIS and GEN as an immediate but brief induction therapy, stopping after 3 days and switching to other drugs instead.

Cisplatin-Induced Kidney Toxicity: Potential Roles of Major NAD+-Dependent Enzymes and Plant-Derived Natural Products

Cisplatin is an FDA approved anti-cancer drug that is widely used for the treatment of a variety of solid tumors. However, the severe adverse effects of cisplatin, particularly kidney toxicity, restrict its clinical and medication applications. The major mechanisms of cisplatin-induced renal toxicity involve oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal fibrosis, which are covered in this short review. In particular, we review the underlying mechanisms of cisplatin kidney injury in the context of NAD⁺-dependent redox enzymes including mitochondrial complex I, NAD kinase, CD38, sirtuins, poly-ADP ribosylase polymerase, and nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT) and their potential contributing roles in the amelioration of cisplatin-induced kidney injury conferred by natural products derived from plants. We also cover general procedures used to create animal models of cisplatin-induced kidney injury involving mice and rats. We highlight the fact that more studies will be needed to dissect the role of each NAD⁺-dependent redox enzyme and its involvement in modulating cisplatin-induced kidney injury, in conjunction with intensive research in NAD⁺ redox biology and the protective effects of natural products against cisplatin-induced kidney injury.

Protective effect of food derived nutrients on cisplatin nephrotoxicity and its mechanism

Platinum-based metal complexes, especially cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum II, CDDP), possess strong anticancer properties and a broad anticancer spectrum. However, the clinical application of CDDP has been limited by its side effects including nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and neurotoxicity. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of current clinical protocols are imperfect. Accordingly, it is essential to identify key targets and effective clinical protocols to restrict CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. Herein, we first analyzed the relevant molecular mechanisms during the process of CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity including oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. Evidence from current studies was collected and potential targets and clinical protocols are summarized. The evidence indicates an efficacious role of nutrition-based substances in CDDP-induced renal injury.

Nephroprotective Effects of Alhagi camelorum against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Albino Wistar Rats

Alhagi camelorum (AC) is an old plant with a significant therapeutic value throughout Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The overuse of cisplatin (Cis > 50 mg/m²) is associated with observed nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, gastrotoxicity, myelosuppression, and allergic reactions. Remedial measures are needed for the protection of nephrotoxicity against cisplatin. Thus, we investigated the nephroprotective effects of AC plant extract to prevent cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in albino Wistar rats. The presence of polyphenols, phenolic compounds, tannins, and saponins was revealed during phytochemical investigation, and a significantly intense antioxidant activity was recorded. There were no toxicological symptoms in the treated rats, and no anatomical, physiological, or histological abnormalities were found compared to the control rats. The results of correcting cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity revealed that the extract has a significant ability to treat kidney damage, with most parameters returning to normal after only three weeks of therapy. It is concluded that co-administration of cisplatin with AC extract showed exceptional nephroprotective effects at a dose of 600 mg/kg for Cis-induced nephrotoxicity.

Natural products: potential treatments for cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin is a clinically advanced and highly effective anticancer drug used in the treatment of a wide variety of malignancies, such as head and neck, lung, testis, ovary, breast cancer, etc. However, it has only a limited use in clinical practice due to its severe adverse effects, particularly nephrotoxicity; 20%–35% of patients develop acute kidney injury (AKI) after cisplatin administration. The nephrotoxic effect of cisplatin is cumulative and dose dependent and often necessitates dose reduction or withdrawal. Recurrent episodes of AKI result in impaired renal tubular function and acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, uremia, and hypertensive nephropathy. The pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced AKI involves proximal tubular injury, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular injury in the kidneys. At present, there are no effective drugs or methods for cisplatin-induced kidney injury. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies show that numerous natural products (flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, polysaccharide, phenylpropanoids, etc.) have specific antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties that regulate the pathways associated with cisplatin-induced kidney damage. In this review we describe the molecular mechanisms of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and summarize recent findings in the field of natural products that undermine these mechanisms to protect against cisplatin-induced kidney damage and provide potential strategies for AKI treatment.

The nephroprotective effects of Daucus carota and Eclipta prostrata against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

The overuse of cisplatin (>50 mg/m2) is limited to nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, gastrotoxicity, myelosuppression, and allergic reactions. The objective of this study was to investigate the nephroprotective effects of Daucus carota and Eclipta prostrata extracts on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. The study involved male Wistar albino rats of 8 weeks weighing 220-270 g. A single injection of 5 mg/kg was injected into the rats for nephrotoxicity. Rats were divided into four groups based on dose conentrations. Blood and urine samples of rats were collected on the 0, 7th, 14th, and 21st days for nephrological analysis. The results showed that Cis + DC/Cis + EP (600 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.001) increased the body weight and reduced the kidney weight of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats (p < 0.001) as compared to Cis group. The results showed that 600 mg/kg administration of Cis + DC/Cis +EP successfully (p < 0.005) improved the urine and plasmin creatinine, Na, and K level compared to the Cis group. Histopathological results confirmed that Cis + EP/Cis + DC effectively improved the renal abnormalities. It is concluded that the co-administration of Cis + EP extract showed exceptional nephroprotective effects at a dose rate of 600 mg/kg.

Autophagy in Cisplatin Nephrotoxicity during Cancer Therapy

Simple Summary

Cisplatin is a broadly used chemotherapy drug, but its use and efficacy are limited by its nephrotoxicity. Autophagy protects against kidney injury during cisplatin exposure but may reduce the efficacy of chemotherapy by protecting cancer cells. In this review, we describe the role and regulation of autophagy in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and discuss the therapeutic advances and challenges of targeting autophagy in chemotherapy.

Abstract

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent but its clinical use is often limited by nephrotoxicity. Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that removes protein aggregates and damaged or dysfunctional cellular organelles for maintaining cell homeostasis. Upon cisplatin exposure, autophagy is rapidly activated in renal tubule cells to protect against acute cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Mechanistically, the protective effect is mainly related to the clearance of damaged mitochondria via mitophagy. The role and regulation of autophagy in chronic kidney problems after cisplatin treatment are currently unclear, despite the significance of research in this area. In cancers, autophagy may prevent tumorigenesis, but autophagy may reduce the efficacy of chemotherapy by protecting cancer cells. Future research should focus on developing drugs that enhance the anti-tumor effects of cisplatin while protecting kidneys during cisplatin chemotherapy.

Rosamultin from Potentilla anserine L. exhibits nephroprotection and antioxidant activity by regulating the reactive oxygen species/C/EBP homologous protein signaling pathway

Rosamultin, a major bioactive constituent from Potentilla anserine L., has antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities. However, its protective effects on cisplatin-induced acute renal injury and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this work, rosamultin could enhance the viability of HEK293 cells treated by cisplatin. In vivo experiment showed that rosamultin effectively decreased kidney index, reduced blood urea nitrogen level, decreased urinary protein excretion, and ameliorated the histopathological damage and fibrosis of renal tissue induced by cisplatin. Besides, rosamultin showed no obvious toxicity in mice. SILAC-based quantitative proteomic analysis identified 4,461 proteins and eight proteins including C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) were markedly decreased in cisplatin-treated HEK293 cells when exposed to rosamultin. Biochemical experiments further discovered that rosamultin could inhibit p38 and JNK activation, and downregulate the levels of CHOP and proteins in its upstream PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 signaling pathway stimulated by cisplatin or tunicamycin. At the same time, rosamultin reduced the generation of intracellular ROS induced by cisplatin and enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GSH, and CAT. Moreover, rosamultin markedly suppressed the expression of CHOP, apoptosis-associated proteins, and activation of p38 and JNK in renal tissue. These findings suggest that rosamultin might be a potential protectant against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

A Review of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treating Renal Interstitial Fibrosis via Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Apoptosis

Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is the main pathological manifestation of end-stage renal disease. Recent studies have shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is involved in the pathogenesis and development of RIF. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as an effective treatment for kidney diseases, can improve kidney damage by affecting the apoptotic signaling pathway mediated by ER stress. This article reviews the apoptotic pathways mediated by ER stress, including the three major signaling pathways of unfolded protein response, the main functions of the transcription factor C/EBP homologous protein. We also present current research on TCM treatment of RIF, focusing on medicines that regulate ER stress. A new understanding of using TCM to treat kidney disease by regulating ER stress will promote clinical application of Chinese medicine and discovery of new drugs for the treatment of RIF.

Antioxidant effect of acetyl-l-carnitine against cisplatin-induced cardiotoxicity

Objective

Cisplatin (CDDP) toxicity is a dose-limiting clinical problem in clinical practice, mainly because of nephrotoxicity or ototoxicity. However, the mechanism of CDDP-induced cardiotoxicity is poorly understood. Acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR) is an antioxidant agent with protective effects against the side effects of various chemotherapeutics. CDDP-induced cardiotoxicity and the protective role of ALCAR were evaluated in this study.

Methods

Morphological changes were evaluated in hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections, and immunohistochemistry for caspase-3, superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD-2), inducible nitrite oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2, and Bcl-2 was performed using the hearts of athymic nude mice carrying xenograft neuroblastoma tumors. Mice were randomized (six/group) to the control, CDDP (16 mg/kg), and ALCAR (200 mg/kg)+CDDP (16 mg/kg) groups. Results were analyzed using nonparametric tests.

Results

No difference was observed in the rates of cardiac necrosis, dilated/congested blood vessels, hemorrhage, polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration, edema, and pyknotic nuclei among the groups. SOD-2 expression was increased in the CDDP group but not in the ALCAR+CDDP group. iNOS, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 levels were not significantly different among the groups.

Conclusions

ALCAR might be a candidate protective agent for CDDP-induced cardiotoxicity. SOD-2, as a member of the oxidant system, should be evaluated in further studies as a biomarker of cardiotoxicity.

Protective effects of natural products against drug-induced nephrotoxicity: A review in recent years

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) is a major cause of kidney damage and is associated with high mortality and morbidity, which limits the clinical use of certain therapeutic or diagnostic agents, such as antineoplastic drugs, antibiotics, immunosuppressive agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and contrast agents. However, in recent years, a number of studies have shown that many natural products (NPs), including phytochemicals, various plants extracts, herbal formulas, and NPs derived from animals, confer protective effects against DIN through multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms, such as inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and necroptosis, regulation of autophagy, maintenance of cell polarity, etc., by regulating multiple signaling pathways and novel molecular targets. In this review, we summarize and discuss the protective effects and mechanisms underlying the action of NPs against DIN found in recent years, which will contribute to the development of promising renal protective agents.

Morin as an imminent functional food ingredient: an update on its enhanced efficacy in the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndromes

Flavonoids represent polyphenolic plant secondary metabolites with a general structure of a 15-carbon skeleton comprising two phenyl rings and a heterocyclic ring. Over 5000 natural flavonoids (flavanones, flavanonols, and flavans) from various plants have been characterized. Several studies provide novel and promising insights into morin hydrate for its different biological activities against a series of metabolic syndromes. The present review is a rendition of its sources, chemistry, functional potency, and protective effects on metabolic syndromes ranging from cancer to brain injury. Most importantly this systematic review article also highlights the mechanisms of interest to morin-mediated management of metabolic disorders. The key mechanisms (anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory) responsible for its therapeutic potential are well featured after collating the in vitro and in vivo study reports. As a whole, based on the prevailing information rationalizing its medicinal use, morin can be identified as a therapeutic agent for the expansion of human health.

Concerted outcome of metformin and low dose of radiation in modulation of cisplatin induced uremic encephalopathy via renal and neural preservation

AIM

The therapeutic expediency of cisplatin was limited due to its nephrotoxic side effects, so this study planned to assess the nephrotic and neuroprotective impact of metformin (MET) and low-dose radiation (LDR) in cisplatin-prompted kidney injury and uremic encephalopathy (UE).

METHODS

The effect of the 10-day MET treatment (200 mg/kg, orally) and/or fractionated LDR (0.25 Gy, of the total dose of 0.5 Gy, 1st and 7th day, respectively) on (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) cisplatin as a single dose was administered at the 5th day. Serum urea, creatinine and renal kidney injury molecule-1 were measured for the assessment of kidney function. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential in the renal and brain tissues was evaluated through, malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione estimation. Moreover, renal apoptotic markers: AMP-activated protein kinase, lipocalin, B-cell lymphoma 2 associated X protein, B-cell lymphoma 2, P53 and beclin 1 were estimated. UE was evaluated through the determination of serum inflammatory markers: nuclear factor kappa B, tumor-necrosis factor-α and interleukin 1 beta likewise, the cognitive deficits were assessed via forced swimming test, gamma-aminobutyric acid, n-methyl-d-aspartate and neuronal nitric oxide synthases besides AMP-activated protein kinase, light chain 3 and caspase3 levels in rats' cerebella.

KEY FINDINGS

The obtained results revealed a noticeable improvement in the previously mentioned biochemical factors and behavioral tasks that was reinforced by histopathological examination when using the present remedy.

SIGNIFICANCE

metformin and low doses of radiation afforded renoprotection and neuroprotection against cisplatin-induced acute uremic encephalopathy.

Morin hydrate: A comprehensive review on novel natural dietary bioactive compound with versatile biological and pharmacological potential

Flavonoids are natural plant-derived dietary bioactive compounds having a substantial impact on human health. Morin hydrate is a bioflavonoid mainly obtained from fruits, stem, and leaves of Moraceae family members' plants. Plenty of evidences supported that morin hydrate exerts its beneficial effects against various chronic and life-threatening degenerative diseases. Our current article discloses the recent advances that have been studied to explore the biological/pharmacological properties and molecular mechanisms to better understand the beneficial and multiple health benefits of morin hydrate. Indeed, Morin hydrate exerts free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-microbial, antidiabetic, anti-arthritis, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Moreover, morin hydrate exhibits its pharmacological activities by modulating various cellular signaling pathways such as Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-қB), Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Janus kinases/ Signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (JAKs/STATs), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1/Nuclear erythroid-2-related factor (Keap1/Nrf2), Endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, Wnt/β-catenin, and Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Most importantly, morin hydrate has the potential to modulate a variety of biological networks. Therefore, it can be predicted that this therapeutically potent compound could serve as a dietary agent for the expansion of human health and might be helpful for the development of the novel drug in the future. However, due to the lack of clinical trials, special human clinical trials are needed to address the effects of morin hydrate on various life-threatening disparities to recommend morin and/or morin-rich foods with other foods or bioactive dietary components, as well as dose-response interaction and safety profile.

AMPK/mTOR Signaling in Autophagy Regulation During Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

Autophagy is a conserved, multistep pathway that degrades and recycles dysfunctional organelles and macromolecules to maintain cellular homeostasis. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and adenosine-monophosphate activated-protein kinase (AMPK) are major negative and positive regulators of autophagy, respectively. In cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) or nephrotoxicity, autophagy is rapidly induced in renal tubular epithelial cells and acts as a cytoprotective mechanism for cell survival. Both mTOR and AMPK have been implicated in the regulation of autophagy in cisplatin-induced AKI. Targeting mTOR and/or AMPK may offer effective strategies for kidney protection during cisplatin-mediated chemotherapy.

Nephroprotective activity of Annona Squamosa leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: in vitro and in vivo experiments

Background

Paracetamol (PCM), being extensively adapted analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug all over the world, beyond therapeutic dosages, the oxidative stress-involved nephrotoxicity has been evidenced. However, herbal plants are the windfall for the humankind providing solution for most of the wellness breakdowns. Annona squamosa (AS) is one of such plants with enormous therapeutic and nutraceutical potencies. The main aspiration of the current investigation is to evaluate the nephroprotective ability of ethanolic extract of Annona squamosa (EEAS) leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity using in vitro human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells and in vivo experiments in Wistar rats through biochemical parameters, oxidative parameters, and histopathological findings.

Results

When HEK-293 cells were incubated with PCM, an increased cell death associated with alterations in the morphology of normal cells was observed. At variable concentrations, HEK-293 cells co-treated with PCM and EEAS extracts gave a significant improvement in cell growth on comparing with PCM treatment showing cytoprotective feature of EEAS with an IC50 28.75 μg/mL. In vivo nephroprotective property was assessed from the amount of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) along with creatinine and uric acid which were reduced (P < 0.001) within serum and compact levels of glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase which were termed as GSH, CAT, and SOD, respectively, were increased (P < 0.001) in kidney tissue homogenate in the treated groups than the PCM alone group. Results were additionally supported by histopathological observations.

Conclusion

The results exhibited that EEAS has impending benefits against PCM-induced nephrotoxicity through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Morin hydrate attenuates adenine-induced renal fibrosis via targeting cathepsin D signaling

Lysosomal proteases such as cathepsins B, D, L, and K can regulate the process of fibrosis in most of the organs. However, the role of cathepsin D (CATD) in kidney fibrosis and corresponding chronic kidney disease (CKD) is still unknown. We investigated whether CATD immunomodulation using morin hydrate (MH) can attenuate kidney fibrosis in CKD. Here, CKD was developed by an oral dosage of adenine (AD) in the mice model. Histopathological detection using H & E and Oil-Red-O staining revealed tissue deposition. An escalation in serum creatinine, albumin, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) revealed a failure in kidney function. An increase in fibrosis was determined using protein analysis and mRNA analysis of MMP-9 and MMP-2 respectively. Both immunoblot analysis and histological analysis indicated that MH immunomudulated CATD expression in AD treated kidneys. With docking analysis, we found MH can bind with the catalytic core of CATD with binding efficiency of -6.83 kcal/mol. Further, MH prevented AD mediated fibrosis by reducing collagen fragmentation as evidenced by the decrease in MMP-2 (P < 0.05) and MMP-9 (P < 0.001) protein levels. MH lowered the levels of inflammation by reducing the AD enhanced expression of MCP-1 and COX-2 nearly threefold. MH treatment increased body weight, enhance kidney function, and improved survival by nearly 150% compared to AD treated mice. CATD inactivation by MH after AD treatment resulted in decreased ECM degradation, fibrosis, and inflammation which resulted in improved renal function and survival.

Phorbol 12-Myristate 13-Acetate Induced Toxicity Study and the Role of Tangeretin in Abrogating HIF-1α-NF-κB Crosstalk In Vitro and In Vivo

Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) is a potent tumor promoter and highly inflammatory in nature. Here, we investigated the toxic effects of PMA on different model system. PMA (10 μg) caused chromosomal aberrations on the Allium cepa root tip and induced mitotic dysfunction. Similarly, PMA caused embryonic and larval deformities and a plummeted survivability rate on zebrafish embryo in a dose-dependent manner. Persistently, PMA treatment on immortalized human keratinocyte human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells caused massive inflammatory rush at 4 h and a drop in cell survivability at 24 h. Concomitantly, we replicated a cutaneous inflammation similar to human psoriasis induced by PMA. Herein, we used tangeretin (TAN), as an antagonist to counteract the inflammatory response. Results from an in vivo experiment indicated that TAN (10 and 30 mg/kg) significantly inhibited PMA stimulated epidermal hyperplasia and intra-epidermal neutrophilic abscesses. In addition, its treatment effectively neutralized PMA induced elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation on in vitro and in vivo systems, promoting antioxidant response. The association of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α)-nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated b cells (NF-κB) crosstalk triggered by PMA enhanced PKCα-ERK1/2-NF-κB pathway; its activation was also significantly counteracted after TAN treatment. Conclusively, we demonstrated TAN inhibited the nuclear translocation of HIF-1α and NF-κB p65. Collectively, TAN treatment ameliorated PMA incited malignant inflammatory response by remodeling the cutaneous microenvironment.

hUMSCs regulate the differentiation of ovarian stromal cells via TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway to inhibit ovarian fibrosis to repair ovarian function in POI rats

Objective

The basic pathological changes of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) include ovarian tissue fibrosis and follicular development disorders. The human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUMSC) transplantation has been shown an effective method to improve the ovarian function in POI rat model; however, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the recovery of ovarian function in POI rats is related to the inhibition of tissue fibrosis following hUMSC transplantation. Furthermore, the transforming growth factor-β₁ (TGF-β₁) signaling pathway is explored to determine the mechanisms of ovarian function recovery through its inhibition of tissue fibrosis.

Methods

The primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of chemotherapy drug cisplatin (CDDP) for 7 days. The levels of serum sex hormones were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The tissue fibrosis in the ovary was examined using Masson staining and Sirius red staining. The collagen fibers in the ovarian tissues were detected by Western blot analysis. To investigate the mechanisms of ovarian function recovery following hUMSC transplantation, ovarian stromal cells were isolated from the ovarian cortex of immature rats. The expression of Cytochrome P450 17A1 (Cyp17a1) and fibrosis marker of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in ovarian stromal cells was examined using immunofluorescence analysis. Also, the protein levels of Cyp17a1 and α-SMA in ovarian stromal cells were examined by Western blot analysis. The expression of TGF-β₁ and Smad3 signals was measured by Western blot and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis.

Results

The results show that the function of the ovary in POI rats was significantly improved after hUMSC transplantation. The expression of fibrosis markers (α-SMA) and production of Collagen Type I (Collagen I) and Collagen Type III (Collagen III) in POI rats were significantly inhibited in POI rats following hUMSC transplantation. In the cultured ovarian stromal cells, the decrease of TGF-β₁ and p-Smad3 protein expression was observed in hUMSC-treated POI rats. The treatment with TGF-β₁ inhibitor of SB431542 further confirmed this signal pathway was involved in the process.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that the TGF-β₁/Smad3 signaling pathway was involved in the inhibition of ovarian tissue fibrosis, which contributed to the restoration of ovarian function in POI rats following hUMSC transplantation.

Morin attenuates acrylamide-induced testicular toxicity in rats by regulating the NF-κB, Bax/Bcl-2 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways

AIM

Acrylamide (AC) is a carcinogenic substance which is formed during the heating of starchy foods at high temperatures and constitutes an important risk for human health. Therefore, reducing the detrimental effects of AC has become an important research topic. This study was performed to evaluate the protective effect of morin against the testicular toxicity induced by AC in male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Testicular damage was evaluated after the rats were treated orally with AC (38.27 mg/kg body weight) alone or with morin (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) for 10 consecutive days.

KEY FINDINGS

Our results showed that treatment with morin could significantly decrease MDA level and considerably increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) and GSH level in the testicular tissue of the AC-treated rats. Morin supplementation also suppressed the activation of inflammatory, apoptotic and autophagic pathways by increasing Bcl-2 and decreasing p38α MAPK, TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, cytochrome c, Bax, caspase-3, LC3A, LC3B and beclin-1 protein levels. Morin also alleviated the side effects caused by AC by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

Collectively, our results have shown the possible protective mechanism of morin, a potential therapeutic agent for AC-induced testicular toxicity.

Morin Hydrate Inhibits Influenza Virus entry into Host Cells and Has Anti-inflammatory Effect in Influenza-infected Mice

Influenza virus is the major cause of seasonal and pandemic flu. Currently, oseltamivir, a potent and selective inhibitor of neuraminidase of influenza A and B viruses, is the drug of choice for treating patients with influenza virus infection. However, recent emergence of oseltamivir-resistant influenza viruses has limited its efficacy. Morin hydrate (3,5,7,2′,4′-pentahydroxyflavone) is a flavonoid isolated from Morus alba L. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects partly by the inhibition of the NF-кB signaling pathway. However, its effects on influenza virus have not been studied. We evaluated the antiviral activity of morin hydrate against influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (A/PR/8; H1N1) and oseltamivir-resistant A/PR/8 influenza viruses in vitro. To determine its mode of action, we carried out time course experiments, and time of addition, hemolysis inhibition, and hemagglutination assays. The effects of the co-administration of morin hydrate and oseltamivir were assessed using the murine model of A/PR/8 infection. We found that morin hydrate reduced hemagglutination by A/PR/8 in vitro. It alleviated the symptoms of A/PR/8-infection, and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, such as TNF-α and CCL2, in infected mice. Co-administration of morin hydrate and oseltamivir phosphate reduced the virus titers and attenuated pulmonary inflammation. Our results suggest that morin hydrate exhibits antiviral activity by inhibiting the entry of the virus.

hUMSC transplantation restores ovarian function in POI rats by inhibiting autophagy of theca-interstitial cells via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Background

Previous studies of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) have focused on granulosa cells (GCs) and ignored the role of theca-interstitial cells (TICs). This study aims to explore the mechanism of the protective effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) on ovarian function in POI rats by regulating autophagy of TICs.

Methods

The POI model was established in rats treated with cisplatin (CDDP). The hUMSCs were transplanted into POI rats by tail vein. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and immunohistochemistry were used to measure the protective effects of hUMSCs. The molecular mechanisms of injury and repairment of TICs were assessed by immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscope (TEM), flow cytometry (FCM), western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results

In vivo, hUMSC transplantation restored the ovarian function and alleviated the apoptosis of TICs in POI rats. In vitro, hUMSCs reduced the autophagy levels of TICs by reducing oxidative stress and regulating AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby alleviating the apoptosis of TICs.

Conclusion

This study indicates that hUMSCs protected ovarian function in POI by regulating autophagy signaling pathway AMPK/mTOR.

Relationship between autophagy, apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by melatonin in osteoblasts by septin7 expression

Melatonin secreted by the pineal body is associated with the occurrence and development of idiopathic scoliosis. Melatonin has a concentration-dependent dual effect on osteoblast proliferation, in which higher concentrations can inhibit osteoblast proliferation and induce apoptosis; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, flow cytometry was used to demonstrate that osteoblast cells treated with melatonin exhibited significantly increased early and late stage apoptotic rates as the concentration increased. Chromatin condensation in the nucleus and apoptotic body formation could be observed using fluorescent microscopy in osteoblast cells treated with 2 mM melatonin. Western blotting results showed that there was an upregulation in the expression of apoptosis marker proteins [poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1)], endoplasmic reticulum stress [ERS; C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and glucose-regulated protein, 78 kDa (GRP78)] and autophagy [microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3β (LC3)-I/LC3II]. PARP-1 expression was not altered when treated with ERS inhibitor 4PBA and autophagy inhibitor 3MA, whereas 4PBA or 3MA in combination with 2 mM melatonin (or the three together) significantly increased PARP-1 expression. Furthermore, the use of septin7 small interfering RNA confirmed that increased expression of GRP78 and CHOP was related to septin7, and melatonin- mediated ERS was necessary for septin7 activation. These findings suggest that ERS and autophagy might occur in the early stage of treatment with a high concentration of melatonin, and each might play a protective role in promoting survival; in a later stage, ERS and autophagy might interact and contribute to the induction of apoptosis. Overall, the results indicated that septin7 may be a target protein of melatonin-induced ERS.

Natural antioxidants' effects on endoplasmic reticulum stress-related diseases

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a normal molecular process induced by the over-accumulation of misfolded or unfolded proteins. ER stress induces the unfolded protein response (UPR), which reduces global protein synthesis, increases ER capacity and protein degradation, to restart ER homeostasis, allowing cell survival. However, the over-induction of UPR can also trigger inflammatory processes, tissue damage and cell death. ER stress is involved in several pathologies, like endothelial dysfunction, diabetes and heart, liver, kidney or neurological diseases. Although the progression of these diseases is the result of several pathological mechanisms, oxidative stress has been widely related to these pathologies. Moreover, ER stress can establish a progressive pathological cycle with oxidative stress. Therefore, the use of natural antioxidants, able to modulate both oxidative and ER stress, can be a new strategy to mitigate these diseases. This review is focused on the effects of natural antioxidant compounds on ER stress in endothelial dysfunction, diabetes and heart, liver, kidney or neurological diseases.

Protective effects of morin against acrylamide-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity: A multi-biomarker approach

Acrylamide (ACR) is a heat-induced carcinogen substance that is found in some foods due to cooking or other thermal processes. The aim of present study was to assess the probable protective effects of morin against ACR-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats. The rats were treated with ACR (38.27 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) alone or with morin (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) for 10 consecutive days. Morin treatment attenuated the ACR-induced liver and kidney tissue injury by diminishing the serum AST, ALP, ALT, urea and creatinine levels. Morin increased activities of SOD, CAT and GPx and levels of GSH, and suppressed lipid peroxidation in ACR induced tissues. Histopathological changes and immunohistochemical expressions of p53, EGFR, nephrin and AQP2 in the ACR-induced liver and kidney tissues were decreased after administration of morin. In addition, morin reversed the changes in levels of apoptotic, autophagic and inflammatory parameters such as caspase-3, bax, bcl-2, cytochrome c, beclin-1, LC3A, LC3B, p38α MAPK, NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and COX-2 in the ACR-induced toxicity. Morin also affected the protein levels by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and thus alleviated ACR-induced apoptosis and autophagy. Overall, these findings may shed some lights on new approaches for the treatment of ACR-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Dexmedetomidine alleviates cisplatin‑induced acute kidney injury by attenuating endoplasmic reticulum stress‑induced apoptosis via the α2AR/PI3K/AKT pathway

Cisplatin (CP) is an effective antineoplastic agent; however, CP-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) seriously affects the prognosis of patients with cancer. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (ERS)-induced apoptosis serves a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of CP-induced AKI. Dexmedetomidine (Dex), a potent α₂ adrenergic agonist, has been reported to exert protective effects against AKI. However, the protective effects of Dex against CP-induced AKI and the potential molecular mechanisms remain unknown. In the present study, male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n=10/group), as follows: Control group; CP group, rats received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 5 mg/kg CP; Dex + CP group, rats received an i.p. injection of 25 µg/kg Dex immediately after CP treatment; and Dex + CP + atipamezole (Atip) group, rats received an i.p. injection of 250 µg/kg Atip, an α₂ adrenoreceptor (α₂AR) antagonist, and then received the same treatment as the Dex + CP group. Rats were anesthetized and sacrificed 96 h after CP injection. Subsequently, serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) were analyzed, and kidney samples were collected for analyses. Pathological changes were examined using hematoxylin and eosin staining, and protein expression levels were assessed using western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. In addition, apoptosis was examined using a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling assay. The present results suggested that Dex protected against CP-induced AKI by attenuating histological changes in the kidney, serum BUN and Scr production. Furthermore, the expression levels of 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein, C/EBP homologous protein and caspase-12, and the apoptotic rate in the kidney were decreased following Dex treatment. In addition, the expression levels of phosphorylated (p)-PI3K and p-AKT in the Dex + CP group were significantly increased. Conversely, the renoprotective effects of Dex were attenuated following the addition of Atip. In conclusion, Dex may alleviate CP-induced AKI by attenuating ERS-induced apoptosis, at least in part, via the α₂AR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Panax notoginseng saponins ameliorate cisplatin-induced mitochondrial injury via the HIF-1α/mitochondria/ROS pathway

Cisplatin is a major antineoplastic drug that is used to treat solid tumors, but its use is restricted by its nephrotoxicity. Such cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity (CIN) is believed to occur primarily through mitochondrial damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Our previous studies have indicated that Panax notoginseng saponins (PNSs) mitigate CIN by enhancing hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α)‐induced mitochondrial autophagy. In this study, the role of the HIF‐1α/mitochondria/ROS pathway in PNSs protection against CIN was investigated using a rat model. A CIN model was generated by giving rats intraperitoneal injections with cisplatin (a single dose) and then treating them with or without 2‐methoxyestradiol (HIF‐1α inhibitor) and PNSs. We then measured ROS levels, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, catalase malondialdehyde and nitric oxide (to evaluate oxidative stress) and ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening (to evaluate mitochondrial function) in kidneys at different time points. We observed that PNSs remarkably reduced the levels of ROS, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, as well as the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore, which is increased by cisplatin and further increased by HIF‐1α inhibition. In addition, PNSs increased the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione, as well as ATP and mitochondrial membrane potential in renal tissues; these are all reduced by cisplatin and further reduced by HIF‐1α inhibition. In conclusion, we demonstrate here that PNSs protects against mitochondrial damage induced by cisplatin through HIF‐1α/mitochondria/ROS.

Morin Hydrate Reverses Cisplatin Resistance by Impairing PARP1/HMGB1-Dependent Autophagy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Chemoresistance is a major obstacle that limits the benefits of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma. De-regulation of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1)/high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) signaling pathway has been proposed as an important mechanism involved in cisplatin-resistance. In this study, we investigated therapeutic potential of a natural flavonoid Morin hydrate against cisplatin-induced toxicity using the HepG2^DR multi-drug resistant cell line, which is derived from the HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. HepG2^DR cells were exposed to cisplatin and Morin hydrate alone or together after which autophagy and apoptotic signaling pathways were monitored by fluorometric assay and Western blot analysis. Xenograft mouse models were performed to confirm the in vitro effect of Morin hydrate. PARP1 was hyper activated in cisplatin-resistant HepG2^DR cells. Cisplatin-induced PARP1 activation resulted in chemoresistance via increased autophagy. The cisplatin/Morin hydrate combination was effective in the reversal of the HepG2^DR cell resistance via suppression of PARP1-mediated autophagy by regulating the HMGB1 and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B light chain 3B (LC3) I/II. Moreover, PARP1 inhibition by 4-amino-1,8-naphthalimide or autophagy inhibition by a knockdown of the autophagy-related 5 (ATG5) gene resulted in sensitizing the HepG2^DR cells to cisplatin (CP) through activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In a mouse xenograft model, the treatment of cisplatin with Morin hydrate reversed the increased expression of PARP and HMGB1 and significantly suppressed tumor growth. These findings indicate dysregulated expression of PARP1 confers cisplatin-resistance via autophagy activation in HepG2^DR cells. Morin hydrate inhibits cisplatin-mediated autophagy induction, resulting in increased susceptibility of HepG2^DR cells to cisplatin cytotoxicity. The combination of Morin hydrate with cisplatin may be a promising therapeutic strategy to enhance the efficacy of conventional chemotherapeutic drugs.

Recent Advances in Models, Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Interventions in Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent used to treat solid tumours, such as ovarian, head and neck, and testicular germ cell. A known complication of cisplatin administration is acute kidney injury (AKI). The development of effective tumour interventions with reduced nephrotoxicity relies heavily on understanding the molecular pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced AKI. Rodent models have provided mechanistic insight into the pathophysiology of cisplatin-induced AKI. In the subsequent review, we provide a detailed discussion of recent advances in the cisplatin-induced AKI phenotype, principal mechanistic findings of injury and therapy, and pre-clinical use of AKI rodent models. Cisplatin-induced AKI murine models faithfully develop gross manifestations of clinical AKI such as decreased kidney function, increased expression of tubular injury biomarkers, and tubular injury evident by histology. Pathways involved in AKI include apoptosis, necrosis, inflammation, and increased oxidative stress, ultimately providing a translational platform for testing the therapeutic efficacy of potential interventions. This review provides a discussion of the foundation laid by cisplatin-induced AKI rodent models for our current understanding of AKI molecular pathophysiology.

Nephroprotective activity of Combretum micranthum G. Don in cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity in rats: In-vitro, in-vivo and in-silico experiments

Nephrotoxicity is known to be a major complication during cisplatin chemotherapy in cancer patients. In the present study, the protective effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of Combretum micranthum (CM) against cisplatin (CP)-induced renal damage was evaluated using in-vitro human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells and in-vivo experiments. Further, in-silico molecular docking and dynamic experiments were carried out with bioactive compounds of the title plant against nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). Incubation of HEK-293 cells with cisplatin resulted in a significant increase in cell death with changes in normal cellular morphology. Co-treatment of HEK-293 cells with CP and CM extract at varying concentrations resulted in significant enhancement of cell growth compared to CP treatment indicating the cytoprotective activity of CM with an EC₅₀ 8.136 μg/mL. In vivo nephroprotective activity was evaluated by administering CM (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o) to rats for 10 days followed by single intraperitonial injection of CP (7.5 mg/kg) on the 5th day of the experiment. Nephrotoxicity induced by CP was apparent by elevated levels of serum and urine kidney function markers, transaminases, oxidative stress markers and histopathological alterations in kidney. Pre-treatment with CM normalized the renal function at both the doses by ameliorating the CP-induced renal damage markers, oxidative stress and histopathological variations. In-silico studies showed that, out of the thirty bioactive compounds, isovitexin and gallic acid exhibited a higher docking score of -22.467, -21.167 kcal/mol against NF-κB. Cianidanol and epicatechin exhibited a higher docking score of -14.234, -14.209 kcal/mol against sEH. The protective effect of CM extract in CP-induced nephrotoxicity might be attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NF-κB and sEH upregulation.

Anticancer activity and mechanism of bis-pyrimidine based dimetallic Ru(II)(η6-p-cymene) complex in human non-small cell lung cancer via p53-dependent pathway

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cancer worldwide, which is related with poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapy. Notably, ruthenium-based complexes have emerged as good alternative to the currently used platinum-based drugs for cancer therapy. In the present study, we synthesized a novel bis-pyrimidine based ligand 1,3-bis(2-methyl-6-(pyridin-2-yl)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzene (L) and used it in the synthesis of a dimetallic Ru(II) cymene complex [(Ru(η⁶-p-cymene)Cl)₂(1,3-bis(2-methyl-6-(pyridin-2-yl)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzene)] (L-Ru). We checked the stability of this complex in solution state in D₂O/DMSO‑d₆ mixture and found it to be highly stable under these conditions. We determined the anticancer activity and mechanism of action of L-Ru in human NSCLC A549 and A427 by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and related biological analyses. These results revealed that L-Ru exerted a strong inhibitory effect on the cells proliferation,G0/G1-arrest, accompanied with upregulation of p53, p21, p15, cleaved Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) protein and downregulation of cell cycle markers. L-Ru inhibited cell migration and invasion. The mitochondria-mediated apoptosis of NSCLC induced by L-Ru was also observed followed by the increase of apoptosis regulator B-cell lymphoma 2 associated X (BAX), and activation of caspase-3/-9. The effects of L-Ru on the cell viability, Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells and Annexin V-positive cells apoptosis induction were remarkably attenuated. This complex induced DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and cell death via caspase-dependent apoptosis involving PARP activation and induction of p53-dependent pathway. These findings suggested that this ruthenium complex might be a potential effective chemotherapeutic agent in NSCLC therapy.

Emerging role of Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) mediated proteotoxic apoptosis in diabetes

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a crucial single membrane organelle that acts as a quality control system for cellular proteins as it is intricately involved in their synthesis, folding and trafficking to the respective targets. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by enhanced blood glucose level that promotes insulin resistance and hampers cellular glucose metabolism. Hyperglycemia provokes mitochondrial ROS production and glycation of proteins which exert a tremendous load on ER for conventional refolding of misfolded/unfolded and nascent proteins that perturb ER homeostasis resulting in apoptotic cell death. Impairment in ER functions is suspected to be through specific ER membrane-bound proteins known as Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) sensor proteins. Conformational changes in these proteins induce oligomerization and cross-autophosphorylation which facilitate processes required for the restoration of ER homeostatic imbalance. Multiple studies have reported the involvement of UPR mediated autophagy and apoptotic pathways in the progression of metabolic disorders including diabetes, cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypoxia-mediated cell death. In this review, the involvement of UPR pathways in the progression of diabetes associated complications have been addressed, which underscores molecular crosstalks during neuropathy, nephropathy, hepatic injury and retinopathy. A better understanding of these molecular interventions may reveal advanced therapeutic approaches for preventing diabetic comorbidities. The article also highlights the importance of phytochemicals that are emerging as novel ER stress inhibitors and are being explored for targeted interaction in preventing cell death responses during diabetes.

Dimetallic Ru(II) arene complexes appended on bis-salicylaldimine induce cancer cell death and suppress invasion via p53-dependent signaling

A series of bis-salicylaldimine ligands bearing two ON-donor functions were reacted with dichloro(p-cymene)ruthenium(II) dimer in the presence of base (NaOAc) and a series of four dimetallic Ru(II) arene complexes (Ru(p-cymene))₂(bis-salicylaldimine)Cl₂ (C1C4) were prepared. These complexes were obtained in excellent isolated yields and characterized in detail by using different spectroscopic techniques. The structure of C1 was also determined in solid state by single crystal X-ray analysis. These complexes were studied for their cytotoxic effect against three different types of human cancer cells including hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), non-small-cell lung cancer (A549) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cells by MTT assay. These complexes showed considerable cytotoxic effect in all the above-mentioned cell lines that was comparable to the effect of cisplatin. C1 and C2 showed moderate anticancer effect while C3 and C4 showed reasonable cytotoxicity. We found the cytotoxicity was increased in series from C1 to C4 representing the effect of ligand modification from small to bulky group at the amine functionality of the salicylaldimine. We selected C3 and C4 for mechanistic anticancer study in MCF-7 cells. The acridine orange/ethidium bromide and DAPI staining assays of MCF-7 cells treated with Ru(II) complexes showed apoptosis in cancer cells. Similarly, these complexes induced p53 protein expression in MCF-7 cells. Further, increased mRNA levels of p63, p73, PUMA, BAX and NOXA genes were observed in response to the treatment with C3 and C4, while cyclinD1, MMP3 and ID1 gene expression was significantly reduced. We found reduced invasion ability in breast cancer cells treated with C3 and C4. Taken together, we demonstrated that bis-salicylaldimine based dimetallic Ru-(p-cymene) complexes exerts anticancer effects by p53 pathway, suggesting the promising chemotherapeutic potentials of these Ru(II) complexes for the treatment of cancer. This study may further pave for their in depth in vitro or in vivo anticancer investigations.