Dimethyl fumarate improves cognitive deficits in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats by alleviating inflammation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis via NRF2/ARE/NF-κB signal pathway

Hypoxia and ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a novel, iron-dependent cell death characterized by the excessive accumulation of ferroptosis lipid peroxides ultimately leading to oxidative damage to the cell membrane. Iron, lipid, amino acid metabolism, and other signaling pathways all control ferroptosis. Numerous bodily tissues experience hypoxia under normal and pathological circumstances. Tissue cells can adjust to these changes by activating the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling pathway and other mechanisms in response to the hypoxic environment. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that hypoxia and ferroptosis are closely linked, and that hypoxia can regulate ferroptosis in specific cells and conditions through different pathways. In this paper, we review the possible positive and negative regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis by hypoxia-inducible factors, as well as ferroptosis-associated ischemic diseases, with the intention of delivering novel therapeutic avenues for the defense and management of hypoxic illnesses linked to ferroptosis.

The potential roles of HIF-1α in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and ferroptosis in tumor cells

In tumors, the rapid proliferation of cells and the imperfect blood supply system lead to hypoxia, which can regulate the adaptation of tumor cells to the hypoxic environment through hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and promote tumor development in multiple ways. Recent studies have found that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and ferroptosis play important roles in the progression of tumor cells. The activation of HIF-1α is considered a key factor in inducing EMT in tumor cells. When HIF-1α is activated, it can regulate EMT-related genes, causing tumor cells to gradually lose their epithelial characteristics and acquire more invasive mesenchymal traits. The occurrence of EMT allows tumor cells to better adapt to changes in the surrounding tissue, enhancing their migratory and invasive capabilities, thus promoting tumor progression. At the same time, HIF-1α also plays a crucial regulatory role in ferroptosis in tumor cells. In a hypoxic environment, HIF-1α may affect processes such as iron metabolism and oxidative stress responses, inducing ferroptosis in tumor cells. This article briefly reviews the dual role of HIF-1α in EMT and ferroptosis in tumor cells, helping to gain a deeper understanding of the regulatory pathways of HIF-1α in the development of tumor cells, providing a new perspective for understanding the pathogenesis of tumors. The regulation of HIF-1α may become an important strategy for future tumor therapy.

Elucidating the mechanisms of Buyang Huanwu Decoction in treating chronic cerebral ischemia: A combined approach using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo validation

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms of Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BHD) in regulating the AKT/TP53 pathway and reducing inflammatory responses for the treatment of chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI) using UHPLC-QE-MS combined with network pharmacology, molecular docking techniques, and animal experiment validation.

METHODS

Targets of seven herbal components in BHD, such as Astragalus membranaceus, Paeoniae Rubra Radix, and Ligusticum chuanxiong, were identified through TCMSP and HERB databases. CCI-related targets were obtained from DisGeNET and Genecards, with an intersection analysis conducted to determine shared targets between the disease and the herbal components. Functional enrichment analysis of these intersecting targets was performed. Networks of gene ontology and pathway associations with these targets were constructed and visualized. A pharmacological network involving intersecting genes and active components was delineated. A protein-protein interaction network was established for these intersecting targets and visualized using Cytoscape 3.9.1. The top five genes from the PPI network and their corresponding active components underwent molecular docking. Finally, the 2-vessel occlusion (2-VO) induced CCI rat model was treated with BHD, and the network pharmacology findings were validated using Western blot, RT-PCR, behavioral tests, laser speckle imaging, ELISA, HE staining, Nissl staining, LFB staining, and immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

After filtration and deduplication, 150 intersecting genes were obtained, with the top five active components by Degree value identified as Quercetin, Beta-Sitosterol, Oleic Acid, Kaempferol, and Succinic Acid. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis linked key target genes significantly with Lipid and atherosclerosis, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. The PPI network highlighted ALB, IL-6, AKT1, TP53, and IL-1β as key protein targets. Molecular docking results showed the strongest binding affinity between ALB and Beta-Sitosterol. Behavioral tests using the Morris water maze indicated that both medium and high doses of BHD could enhance spatial memory in 2-VO model rats, with high-dose BHD being more effective. Laser speckle results showed that BHD at medium and high doses could facilitate CBF recovery in CCI rats, demonstrating a dose-response relationship. HE staining indicated that all doses of BHD could reduce neuronal damage in the cortex and hippocampal CA1 region to varying extents, with the highest dose being the most efficacious. Nissl staining showed that nimodipine and medium and high doses of BHD could alleviate Nissl body damage. LFB staining indicated that nimodipine and medium and high doses of BHD could reduce the pathological damage to fiber bundles and myelin sheaths in the internal capsule and corpus callosum of CCI rats. ELISA results showed that nimodipine and BHD at medium and high doses could decrease the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-1β in the serum of CCI rats (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence demonstrated that BHD could activate the AKT signaling pathway and inhibit TP53 in treating CCI. Western blot and RT-PCR results indicated that nimodipine and all doses of BHD could upregulate Akt1 expression and downregulate Alb, Tp53, Il-1β, and Il-6 expression in the hippocampus of CCI rats to varying degrees (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

BHD exerts therapeutic effects in the treatment of CCI by regulating targets, such as AKT1, ALB, TP53, IL-1β, and IL-6, and reducing inflammatory responses.

The main molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and its role in chronic kidney disease

The term ferroptosis, coined in 2012, has been widely applied in various disease research fields. Ferroptosis is a newly regulated form of cell death distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, the mechanisms of which have been extensively studied. Chronic kidney disease, characterized by renal dysfunction, is a common disease severely affecting human health, with its occurrence and development influenced by multiple factors and leading to dysfunction in multiple systems. It often lacks obvious clinical symptoms in the early stages, and thus, diagnosis is typically made in the later stages, complicating treatment. While research on ferroptosis and acute kidney injury has made continuous progress, studies on the association between ferroptosis and chronic kidney disease remain limited. This review aims to summarize chronic kidney disease, investigate the mechanism and regulation of ferroptosis, and attempt to elucidate the role of ferroptosis in the occurrence and development of chronic kidney disease.

Nrf2-mediated ferroptosis inhibition: a novel approach for managing inflammatory diseases

Inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis, are characterized by persistent inflammation. Moreover, the existing treatments for inflammatory diseases only provide temporary relief by controlling symptoms, and treatments of unstable and expensive. Therefore, new therapeutic solutions are urgently needed to address the underlying causes or symptoms of inflammatory diseases. Inflammation frequently coincides with a high level of (reactive oxygen species) ROS activation, serving as a fundamental element in numerous physiological and pathological phenotypes that can result in serious harm to the organism. Given its pivotal role in inflammation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis, ROS represents a focal node for investigating the (nuclear factor E2-related factor 2) Nrf2 pathway and ferroptosis, both of which are intricately linked to ROS. Ferroptosis is mainly triggered by oxidative stress and involves iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. The transcription factor Nrf2 targets several genes within the ferroptosis pathway. Recent studies have shown that Nrf2 plays a significant role in three key ferroptosis-related routes, including the synthesis and metabolism of glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4, iron metabolism, and lipid processes. As a result, ferroptosis-related treatments for inflammatory diseases have attracted much attention. Moreover, drugs targeting Nrf2 can be used to manage inflammatory conditions. This review aimed to assess ferroptosis regulation mechanism and the role of Nrf2 in ferroptosis inhibition. Therefore, this review article may provide the basis for more research regarding the treatment of inflammatory diseases through Nrf2-inhibited ferroptosis.

Ellagic acid ameliorates arsenic-induced neuronal ferroptosis and cognitive impairment via Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway

Arsenic, a neurotoxic metalloid, poses significant health risks. However, ellagic acid, renowned for its antioxidant properties, has shown potential in neuroprotection. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of ellagic acid against arsenic-induced neuronal ferroptosis and cognitive impairment and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Using an arsenic-exposed Wistar rat model and an arsenic-induced HT22 cells model, we assessed cognitive ability, measured serum and brain arsenic levels, and evaluated pathological damage through histological analysis and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, we examined oxidative stress and iron ion levels using GSH, MDA, ROS and tissue iron biochemical kits, and analyzed the expression of ferroptosis-related markers using western blot and qRT-PCR. Our results revealed that arsenic exposure increased both serum and brain arsenic levels, resulting in hippocampal pathological damage and subsequent decline in learning and memory abilities. Arsenic-induced neuronal ferroptosis was mediated by the inhibition of the xCT/GSH/GPX4/Nrf2 signaling axis and disruption of iron metabolism. Notably, ellagic acid intervention effectively reduced serum and brain arsenic levels, ameliorated neuronal damage, and improved oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and cognitive impairment. These beneficial effects were associated with the activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, upregulation of GPX4 expression, and enhanced iron ion excretion. In conclusion, ellagic acid demonstrates promising neuroprotective effects against arsenic-induced neurotoxicity by mitigating neuronal ferroptosis and cognitive impairment.

Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibition ameliorated neuroinflammation during chronic white matter ischemia

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a disease afflicting numerous individuals worldwide, is a primary cause of cognitive deficits, the pathogenesis of which remains poorly understood. Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibition (BTKi) is considered a promising strategy to regulate inflammatory responses within the brain, a crucial process that is assumed to drive ischemic demyelination progression. However, the potential role of BTKi in CCH has not been investigated so far. In the present study, we elucidated potential therapeutic roles of BTK in both in vitro hypoxia and in vivo ischemic demyelination model. We found that cerebral hypoperfusion induced white matter injury, cognitive impairments, microglial BTK activation, along with a series of microglia responses associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ferroptosis. Tolebrutinib treatment suppressed both the activation of microglia and microglial BTK expression. Meanwhile, microglia-related inflammation and ferroptosis processes were attenuated evidently, contributing to lower levels of disease severity. Taken together, BTKi ameliorated white matter injury and cognitive impairments induced by CCH, possibly via skewing microglia polarization towards anti-inflammatory and homeostatic phenotypes, as well as decreasing microglial oxidative stress damage and ferroptosis, which exhibits promising therapeutic potential in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced demyelination.

Hypercholesterolemia and the Increased Risk of Vascular Dementia: a Cholesterol Perspective

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most prevalent type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease.Hypercholesterolemia may increase the risk of dementia, but the association between cholesterol and cognitive function is very complex. From the perspective of peripheral and brain cholesterol, we review the relationship between hypercholesterolemia and increased risk of VaD and how the use of lipid-lowering therapies affects cognition.

RECENT FINDINGS

Epidemiologic studies show since 1980, non-HDL-C levels of individuals has increased rapidly in Asian countries.The study has suggested that vascular risk factors increase the risk of VaD, such as disordered lipid metabolism. Dyslipidemia has been found to interact with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion to promote inflammation resulting in cognitive dysfunction in the brain.Hypercholesterolemia may be a risk factor for VaD. Inflammation could potentially serve as a link between hypercholesterolemia and VaD. Additionally, the potential impact of lipid-lowering therapy on cognitive function is also worth considering. Finding strategies to prevent and treat VaD is critical given the aging of the population to lessen the load on society. Currently, controlling underlying vascular risk factors is considered one of the most effective methods of preventing VaD. Understanding the relationship between abnormal cholesterol levels and VaD, as well as discovering potential serum biomarkers, is important for the early prevention and treatment of VaD.

Evidence for TGF-β1/Nrf2 Signaling Crosstalk in a Cuprizone Model of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and degenerative disease that impacts central nervous system (CNS) function. One of the major characteristics of the disease is the presence of regions lacking myelin and an oxidative and inflammatory environment. TGF-β1 and Nrf2 proteins play a fundamental role in different oxidative/inflammatory processes linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as MS. The evidence from different experimental settings has demonstrated a TGF-β1-Nrf2 signaling crosstalk under pathological conditions. However, this possibility has not been explored in experimental models of MS. Here, by using the cuprizone-induced demyelination model of MS, we report that the in vivo pharmacological blockage of the TGF-β1 receptor reduced Nrf2, catalase, and TGFβ-1 protein levels in the demyelination phase of cuprizone administration. In addition, ATP production, locomotor function and cognitive performance were diminished by the treatment. Altogether, our results provide evidence for a crosstalk between TGF-β1 and Nrf2 signaling pathways under CNS demyelination, highlighting the importance of the antioxidant cellular response of neurodegenerative diseases such as MS.

Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signatures in Epilepsy: Diagnostic and Immune Insights

Epilepsy is characterized by a multifaceted aetiology. Ferroptosis has recently been implicated in seizure pathophysiology, although its mechanistic role in epilepsy remains obscure. We examined the roles of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in epilepsy cohorts from the GSE143272 dataset. We investigated the associations between gene expression and the immune response by performing CIBERSORT and MCP-counter analyses. By employing unsupervised consensus clustering and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), we delineated robust gene clusters across cohorts. Single-cell RNA sequencing data from the GSE201048 dataset provided insights into the interactions between pivotal ferroptosis-related genes and immune cells. Additionally, we employed qRT‒PCR technology to measure the levels of these central genes in the tissues of epileptic patients and mice. Our findings revealed seven pivotal genes (TFRC, POR, PTGS2, RELA, PGD, TRIM21, and QSOX1) at the forefront in epilepsy specimens. A diagnostic model harnessing these genes exhibited substantial efficacy (AUC = 0.913). Similarly, the qRT‒PCR analysis of samples from epileptic patients and mouse epileptic brain tissues substantiated these findings. Stratification of 91 patients with epilepsy via WGCNA, based on gene expression, revealed distinct immunological profiles. The scRNA-seq data further indicated increased expression of central genes in macrophages and microglia. Notably, these cells and those with elevated ferroptosis scores were significantly enriched in inflammation-related pathways. These findings support the strong involvement of FRGs in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, particularly neuroinflammation. These central genes hold promise as novel diagnostic biomarkers for epilepsy.

Advances in research on immunocyte iron metabolism, ferroptosis, and their regulatory roles in autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases

Autoimmune diseases commonly affect various systems, but their etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear. Currently, increasing research has highlighted the role of ferroptosis in immune regulation, with immune cells being a crucial component of the body's immune system. This review provides an overview and discusses the relationship between ferroptosis, programmed cell death in immune cells, and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, it summarizes the role of various key targets of ferroptosis, such as GPX4 and TFR, in immune cell immune responses. Furthermore, the release of multiple molecules, including damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), following cell death by ferroptosis, is examined, as these molecules further influence the differentiation and function of immune cells, thereby affecting the occurrence and progression of autoimmune diseases. Moreover, immune cells secrete immune factors or their metabolites, which also impact the occurrence of ferroptosis in target organs and tissues involved in autoimmune diseases. Iron chelators, chloroquine and its derivatives, antioxidants, chloroquine derivatives, and calreticulin have been demonstrated to be effective in animal studies for certain autoimmune diseases, exerting anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Finally, a brief summary and future perspectives on the research of autoimmune diseases are provided, aiming to guide disease treatment strategies.

Mechanism of ferroptosis regulating ischemic stroke and pharmacologically inhibiting ferroptosis in treatment of ischemic stroke

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of programmed cell death that is non-caspase-dependent and is characterized by the production of lethal levels of iron-dependent lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS). In recent years, ferroptosis has attracted great interest in the field of cerebral infarction because it differs morphologically, physiologically, and genetically from other forms of cell death such as necrosis, apoptosis, autophagy, and pyroptosis. In addition, ROS is considered to be an important prognostic factor for ischemic stroke, making it a promising target for stroke treatment. This paper summarizes the induction and defense mechanisms associated with ferroptosis, and explores potential treatment strategies for ischemic stroke in order to lay the groundwork for the development of new neuroprotective drugs.

Targeting ferroptosis in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative disorders for the development of novel therapeutics

Neuroimmune and neurodegenerative ailments impose a substantial societal burden. Neuroimmune disorders involve the intricate regulatory interactions between the immune system and the central nervous system. Prominent examples of neuroimmune disorders encompass multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Neurodegenerative diseases result from neuronal degeneration or demyelination in the brain or spinal cord, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The precise underlying pathogenesis of these conditions remains incompletely understood. Ferroptosis, a programmed form of cell death characterised by lipid peroxidation and iron overload, plays a pivotal role in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of ferroptosis, its mechanisms, pathways, and regulation during the progression of neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarise the impact of ferroptosis on neuroimmune-related cells (T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) and neural cells (glial cells and neurons). Finally, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of ferroptosis inhibitors in diverse neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.

Hexahydrocurcumin Attenuates Neuronal Injury and Modulates Synaptic Plasticity in Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion in Rats

Dementia is the most common age-related problem due predominantly to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD). It has been shown that these contributors are associated with a high amount of oxidative stress that leads to changes in neurological function and cognitive impairment. The aim of study was to explore the mechanism by which hexahydrocurcumin (HHC) attenuates oxidative stress, amyloidogenesis, phosphorylated Tau (pTau) expression, neuron synaptic function, and cognitive impairment and also the potential mechanisms involved in induced permanent occlusion of bilateral common carotid arteries occlusion (BCCAO) or 2-vessel occlusion (2VO) in rats. After surgery, rats were treated with HHC (40 mg/kg) or piracetam (600 mg/kg) by oral gavage daily for 4 weeks. The results showed that HHC or piracetam attenuated oxidative stress by promoting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity, and alleviated expression of synaptic proteins (pre- and post-synaptic proteins) mediated by the Wingless/Integrated (Wnt)/β-catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, HHC or piracetam also improved synaptic plasticity via the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/Tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB)/cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway. In addition, HHC reduced amyloid beta (Aβ) production and pTau expression and improved memory impairment as evidenced by the Morris water maze. In conclusion, HHC exerted remarkable improvement in cognitive function in the 2VO rats possibly via the attenuation of oxidative stress, improvement in synaptic function, attenuation of amyloidogenesis, pTau, and neuronal injury, thereby improving cognitive performance.

Cannabidiol ameliorates PTSD-like symptoms by inhibiting neuroinflammation through its action on CB2 receptors in the brain of male mice

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health disease related to traumatic experience, and its treatment outcomes are unsatisfactory. Accumulating research has indicated that cannabidiol (CBD) exhibits anti-PTSD effects, however, the underlying mechanism of CBD remains inadequately investigated. Although many studies pertaining to PTSD have primarily focused on aberrations in neuronal functioning, the present study aimed to elucidate the involvement and functionality of microglia/macrophages in PTSD while also investigated the modulatory effects of CBD on neuroinflammation associated with this condition. We constructed a modified single-prolonged stress (SPS) mice PTSD model and verified the PTSD-related behaviors by various behavioral tests (contextual freezing test, elevated plus maze test, tail suspension test and novel object recognition test). We observed a significant upregulation of Iba-1 and alteration of microglial/macrophage morphology within the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, but not the amygdala, two weeks after the PTSD-related stress, suggesting a persistent neuroinflammatory phenotype in the PTSD-modeled group. CBD (10 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited all PTSD-related behaviors and reversed the alterations in both microglial/macrophage quantity and morphology when administered prior to behavioral assessments. We further found increased pro-inflammatory factors, decreased PSD95 expression, and impaired synaptic density in the hippocampus of the modeled group, all of which were also restored by CBD treatment. CBD dramatically increased the level of anandamide, one of the endocannabinoids, and cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) transcripts in the hippocampus compared with PTSD-modeled group. Importantly, we discovered the expression of CB2Rs mRNA in Arg-1-positive cells in vivo and found that the behavioral effects of CBD were diminished by CB2Rs antagonist AM630 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and both the behavioral and molecular effects of CBD were abolished in CB2Rs knockout mice. These findings suggest that CBD would alleviate PTSD-like behaviors in mice by suppressing PTSD-related neuroinflammation and upregulation and activation of CB2Rs may serve as one of the underlying mechanisms for this therapeutic effect. The present study offers innovative experimental evidence supporting the utilization of CBD in PTSD treatment from the perspective of its regulation of neuroinflammation, and paves the way for leveraging the endocannabinoid system to regulate neuroinflammation as a potential therapeutic approach for psychiatric disorders.

miR-30a-5p mediates ferroptosis of hippocampal neurons in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced cognitive dysfunction by modulating the SIRT1/NRF2 pathway

OBJECTIVE

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is a common cause of brain dysfunction. As a microRNA (also known as miRNAs or miRs), miR-30a-5p participates in neuronal damage and relates to ferroptosis. We explored the in vivo and in vitro effects and functional mechanism of miR-30a-5p in CCH-triggered cognitive impairment through the silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway.

METHODS

After 1 month of CCH modeling through bilateral common carotid artery stenosis, mice were injected with 2 μL antagomir (also known as anti-miRNAs) miR-30a-5p, with cognitive function evaluated by Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. In vitro HT-22 cell oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) model was established, followed by miR-30a-5p inhibitor and/or si-SIRT1 transfections, with Fe2+ concentration, malonaldehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) contents, reactive oxygen species (ROS), miR-30a-5p and SIRT1 and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) protein levels, NRF2 nuclear translocation, and miR-30a-5p-SIRT1 targeting relationship assessed.

RESULTS

CCH-induced mice showed obvious cognitive impairment, up-regulated miR-30a-5p, and down-regulated SIRT1. Ferroptosis occurred in hippocampal neurons, manifested by elevated Fe2+ concentration and ROS and MDA levels, mitochondrial atrophy, and diminished GSH content. Antagomir miR-30a-5p or miR-30a-5p inhibitor promoted SIRT1 expression and NRF2 nuclear translocation, increased GPX4, cell viability and GSH content, and reduced Fe2+ concentration and ROS and MDA levels. miR-30a-5p negatively regulated SIRT1. In vitro, miR-30a-5p knockout increased NRF2 nuclear translocation by up-regulating SIRT1, inhibiting OGD-induced ferroptosis in HT-22 cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-30a-5p induces hippocampal neuronal ferroptosis and exacerbates post-CCH cognitive dysfunction by targeting SIRT1 and reducing NRF2 nuclear translocation.

I-C-F-6 attenuates chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced neurological injury in mice by modulating microglia polarization

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is the leading cause of chronic cerebral dysfunction syndrome with its complex pathological mechanisms involving cortical and hippocampal neuronal loss, white matter lesions, and neuroinflammation. I-C-F-6 is a septapeptide, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of I-C-F-6 in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH)-induced neurological injury. C57BL/6 J mice were subjected to bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS), and BV2 microglia cells were induced with oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). In vivo, mice were divided randomly into four groups: Sham, BCAS, GBE (30 mg/kg), and I-C-F-6 (0.5 mg/kg). In vitro, microglia were divided randomly into four groups: control, OGD, I-C-F-6 (25 μg/mL), and Shikonin (800 nmol/L). Through LFB, TUNEL, and NeuN staining, we found that I-C-F-6 was able to mitigate myelin pathology and reduce the number of apoptotic neurons. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining revealed that I-C-F-6 was able to reduce microglia clustering and downregulate NF-κB p65. We also observed a significant downregulation of M1 phenotype microglia signature genes, such as TNF-α, iNOS, and upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as Arg-1 and IL-10, indicating that I-C-F-6 may mainly reduce polarization towards the M1 phenotype in microglia. Notably, I-C-F-6 downregulated the expression of NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins IKK-β and NF-κB p65, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and iNOS. In conclusion, I-C-F-6 can improve neurological damage, alleviate neuroinflammation, and inhibit microglia polarization to the M1 phenotype via the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Fat mass and obesity-associated protein regulates RNA methylation associated with spatial cognitive dysfunction after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion

RNA methylation can epigenetically regulate learning and memory. However, it is unclear whether RNA methylation plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of Vascular dementia (VD). Here, we report that expression of the fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO), an RNA demethylase, is downregulated in the hippocampus in models of VD. Through prediction and dual-luciferase reporters validation studies, we observed that miRNA-711 was upregulated after VD and could bind to the 3'-untranslated region of FTO mRNA and regulate its expression in vitro. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP)-qPCR assay and functional study confirmed that Syn1 was an important target gene of FTO. This suggests that FTO is an important regulator of Syn1. FTO upregulation by inhibition of miR-711 in the hippocampus relieves synaptic association protein and synapse deterioration in vivo, whereas FTO downregulation by miR-711 agomir in the hippocampus leads to aggravate the synapse deterioration. FTO upregulation by inhibition of miR-711 relieves cognitive impairment of rats VD model, whereas FTO downregulation by miR-711 deteriorate cognitive impairment. Our findings suggest that FTO is a regulator of a mechanism underlying RNA methylation associated with spatial cognitive dysfunction after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.

Targeting NF-κB in Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Alleviation: from Signaling Networks to Therapeutic Targeting

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is a major complication of liver trauma, resection, and transplantation that can lead to liver dysfunction and failure. Scholars have proposed a variety of liver protection methods aimed at reducing ischemia-reperfusion damage, but there is still a lack of effective treatment methods, which urgently needs to find new effective treatment methods for patients. Many studies have reported that signaling pathway plays a key role in HIRI pathological process and liver function recovery mechanism, among which nuclear transfer factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway is one of the signal transduction closely related to disease. NF-κB pathway is closely related to HIRI pathologic process, and inhibition of this pathway can delay oxidative stress, inflammatory response, cell death, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, NF-κB can also interact with PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and Nrf2 signaling pathways to participate in HIRI regulation. Based on the role of NF-κB pathway in HIRI, it may be a potential target pathway for HIRI. This review emphasizes the role of inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway in oxidative stress, inflammatory response, cell death, and mitochondrial dysfunction in HIRI, as well as the effects of related drugs or inhibitors targeting NF-κB on HIRI. The objective of this review is to elucidate the role and mechanism of NF-κB pathway in HIRI, emphasize the important role of NF-κB pathway in the prevention and treatment of HIRI, and provide a theoretical basis for the target NF-κB pathway as a therapy for HIRI.

Gualou-Xiebai herb pair ameliorate atherosclerosis in HFD-induced ApoE-/- mice and inhibit the ox-LDL-induced injury of HUVECs by regulating the Nrf2-mediated ferroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic vascular ailment characterized by inflammatory and lipid deposition in the arterial wall caused by endothelial injury. Ferroptosis is a novel type of cell death, and endothelial ferroptosis is a significant contributor to the progression of AS. Gualou-Xiebai (GLXB) is a renowned Chinese herb pair that serves a crucial function in treating AS. However, whether the underlying mechanism of GLXB plays a role in anti-atherosclerotic effects by inhibiting ferroptosis in endothelial cells has not been determined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the influence of GLXB on endothelial ferroptosis and determine its underlying mechanism of action in AS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In ApoE-/- mice, ultrasound was performed in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks to assess the success of AS establishment. Then, ApoE-/- mice were treated with GLXB and Simvastatin (positive control) for 4 weeks. The effects of GLXB on AS pathology were assessed through aorta imaging and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. To confirm the presence of ferroptosis, mitochondrial damage was observed using transmission electron microscope (TEM), along with analysis of free iron and lipid peroxidation levels. In vitro: ox-LDL-induced human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) injury and treated with GLXB, the ferroptosis inducer Erastin and an Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. Cell viability was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay in all groups. Flow cytometry was employed to detect lipid peroxidation and intracellular ferrous iron levels. Immunofluorescence staining microscopy verified Nrf2 nuclear translocation. Protein expression were measured by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

GLXB improved atherosclerotic aortic lesions and vascular plaques. GLXB inhibited endothelial injury in the aorta by decreasing the levels of inflammatory factors and adhesion factors, and by decreasing the shedding of endothelial cells. GLXB suppressed ferroptosis in ApoE-/- mice by attenuating mitochondrial damage in ECs, increasing the levels of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in aortic tissues and down-regulating the levels of levels of lipid peroxide (LPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Interestingly, Erastin was used to demonstrate in vitro that GLXB inhibition of ferroptosis attenuated ox-LDL-induced injuring effects on HUVECs that were reversed by Erastin. Mechanistically, GLXB activates the Nrf2 signaling pathway to inhibit ferroptosis by increasing downstream anti-ferroptosis target proteins and promoting the interaction between Nrf2 and SLC7A11. More convincingly, ML385 (Nrf2 inhibitor) reversed the anti-ferroptosis effect of GLXB.

CONCLUSION

GLXB inhibits ferroptosis-mediated endothelial cell injury via activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway and further alleviates AS pathological damage.

Ferroptosis: a new target for hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury?

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) can seriously affect graft survival and prognosis and is an unavoidable event during liver transplantation. Ferroptosis is a novel iron-dependent form of cell death characterized by iron accumulation and overwhelming lipid peroxidation; it differs morphologically, genetically, and biochemically from other well-known cell death types (autophagy, necrosis, and apoptosis). Accumulating evidence has shown that ferroptosis is involved in the pathogenesis of hepatic IRI, and targeting ferroptosis may be a promising therapeutic approach. Here, we review the pathways and phenomena involved in ferroptosis, explore the associations and implications of ferroptosis and hepatic IRI, and discuss possible strategies for modulating ferroptosis to alleviate the hepatic IRI.

Exploring the neuroprotection of the combination of astragaloside A, chlorogenic acid and scutellarin in treating chronic cerebral ischemia via network analysis and experimental validation

Chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI) primarily causes cognitive dysfunction and other neurological impairments, yet there remains a lack of ideal therapeutic medications. The preparation combination of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge and Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand.-Mazz have been utilized to ameliorate neurological dysfunction following cerebral ischemia, but material basis of its synergy remains unclear. The principal active ingredients and their optimal proportions in this combination have been identified through the oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) cell model, including astragaloside A, chlorogenic acid and scutellarin (ACS), and its efficacy in enhancing the survival of OGD PC12 cells surpasses that of the combination preparation. Nevertheless, mechanism of ACS against CCI remains elusive. In this study, 63 potential targets of ACS against CCI injury were obtained by network pharmacology, among which AKT1, CASP3 and TNF are the core targets. Subsequent analysis utilizing KEGG and GO suggested that PI3K/AKT pathway may play a crucial role for ACS in ameliorating CCI injury. Then, a right unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (rUCCAO) mouse model and an OGD PC12 cell model were established to replicate the pathological processes of CCI in vivo and in vitro. These models were utilized to explore the anti-CCI effects of ACS and its regulatory mechanisms, particularly focusing on PI3K/AKT pathway. The results showed that ACS facilitated the restoration of cerebral blood flow in CCI mice, enhanced the function of the central cholinergic nervous system, protected against ischemic nerve cell and mitochondrial damage, and improved cognitive function and other neurological impairments. Additionally, ACS upregulated the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-GSK3β and Bcl-2, and diminished the expression of Cyto-c, cleaved Caspase-3 and Bax significantly. However, the PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) partially reversed the downregulation of Bax, Cyto-c and cleaved Caspase-3 expression as well as the upregulation of p-AKT/AKT, p-GSK3β/GSK3β, and Bcl-2/Bax ratios. These findings suggest that ACS against neuronal damage in cerebral ischemia may be closely related to the activation of PI3K/AKT pathway. These results declared first time ACS may become an ideal candidate drug against CCI due to its neuroprotective effects, which are mediated by the activated PI3K/AKT pathway mitigates mitochondrial damage and prevents cell apoptosis.

Dimethyl fumarate covalently modifies Cys673 of NLRP3 to exert anti-inflammatory effects

The NLRP3 inflammasome plays a pivotal role in various chronic inflammation-driven human diseases. However, no drugs specifically targeting NLRP3 inflammasome have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States. In our current study, we showed that dimethyl fumarate (DMF) efficiently suppressed the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome induced by multiple agonists and covalently modified Cys673 of NLRP3, thereby impeding the interaction between NLRP3 and NEK7. The inhibitory effect of DMF was nullified by anaplerosis of the Cys673 mutant (but not the wild-type) NLRP3 in Nlrp3-/- THP-1 cells. In vivo experiments, DMF demonstrated protective effects in the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis of WT mice, but not in Nlrp3-/- mice. In summary, our study identified DMF as a direct covalent inhibitor of NLRP3 and a potential candidate for the treatment of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated diseases.

Klotho-mediated activation of the anti-oxidant Nrf2/ARE signal pathway affects cell apoptosis, senescence and mobility in hypoxic human trophoblasts: involvement of Klotho in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia

The anti-aging gene Klotho is implicated in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE), which is a pregnancy disease characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. Oxidative stress is closely associated with the worse outcomes in PE, and Klotho can eliminate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), but it is still unclear whether Klotho regulates PE pathogenesis through modulating oxidative damages. Here, by analyzing the clinical data, we found that Klotho was aberrantly downregulated in PE umbilical cord serum and placental tissues, compared to their normal counterparts. In in vitro experiments, the human trophoblasts were subjected to hypoxic pressure to establish the PE models, and we confirmed that hypoxia also decreased the expression levels of Klotho in those trophoblasts. In addition, through performing functional experiments, we confirmed that hypoxia promoted oxidative damages, cell apoptosis and senescence, whereas suppressed cell invasion in human trophoblasts, which were all reversed overexpressing Klotho. The following mechanical experiments verified that Klotho increased the levels of nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, SOD2 and NQO1 to activate the anti-oxidant Nrf2/ARE signal pathway, and silencing of Nrf2 abrogated the protective effects of Klotho overexpression on hypoxic human trophoblasts. Consistently, in in vivo experiments, Klotho overexpression restrained oxidative damages and facilitated cell mitosis in PE rats' placental tissues. In conclusion, this study validated that Klotho activated the Nrf2/ARE signal pathway to eliminate hypoxia-induced oxidative damages, cell apoptosis and senescence to recover normal cellular functions in human trophoblasts, and our data supported that Klotho could be used as novel biomarker for PE diagnosis and treatment.

PPARγ alleviates preeclampsia development by regulating lipid metabolism and ferroptosis

The study aims to explore the effect of PPARγ signaling on ferroptosis and preeclampsia (PE) development. Serum and placental tissue are collected from healthy subjects and PE patients. The PPARγ and Nrf2 decreases in the PE. Rosiglitazone intervention reverses hypoxia-induced trophoblast ferroptosis and decreases lipid synthesis by regulating Nfr2 and SREBP1. Compared to the Hypoxia group, the migratory and invasive abilities enhance after rosiglitazone and ferr1 treatment. Rosiglitazone reduces the effect of hypoxia and erastin. The si-Nrf2 treatment attenuats the effects of rosiglitazone on proliferation, migration, and invasion. The si-Nrf2 does not affect SREBP1 expression. PPARγ agonists alleviates ferroptosis in the placenta of the PE rats. The study confirms that PPARγ signaling and ferroptosis-related indicators were dysregulated in PE. PPARγ/Nrf2 signaling affects ferroptosis by regulating lipid oxidation rather than SREBP1-mediated lipid synthesis. In conclusion, our study find that PPARγ can alleviate PE development by regulating lipid oxidation and ferroptosis.

Ferroptosis: a new hunter of hepatocellular carcinoma

Ferroptosis is an iron ion-dependent, regulatory cell death modality driven by intracellular lipid peroxidation that plays a key role in the development of HCC. Studies have shown that various clinical agents (e.g., sorafenib) have ferroptosis inducer-like effects and can exert therapeutic effects by modulating different key factors in the ferroptosis pathway. This implies that targeting tumor cell ferroptosis may be a very promising strategy for tumor therapy. In this paper, we summarize the prerequisites and defense systems for the occurrence of ferroptosis and the regulatory targets of drug-mediated ferroptosis action in HCC, the differences and connections between ferroptosis and other programmed cell deaths. We aim to summarize the theoretical basis, classical inducers of ferroptosis and research progress of ferroptosis in HCC cells, clued to the treatment of HCC by regulating ferroptosis network. Further investigation of the specific mechanisms of ferroptosis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and interventions at different stages of hepatocellular carcinoma will help us to deepen our understanding of hepatocellular carcinoma, with a view to providing new and more precise preventive as well as therapeutic measures for patients.

Attenuation of neuronal ferroptosis in intracerebral hemorrhage by inhibiting HDAC1/2: Microglial heterogenization via the Nrf2/HO1 pathway

AIM

The class I histone deacetylases (HDACs) implicate in microglial heterogenization and neuroinflammation following Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Ferroptosis has also been reported in the ICH model. However, the relationship between HDAC1/2's role in microglial heterogenization and neuronal ferroptosis remains unclear.

METHODS

In both in vivo and in vitro models of ICH, we used Romidepsin (FK228), a selective HDAC1/2 inhibitor, to investigate its effects on microglial heterogenization and neuronal ferroptosis. In the in vitro ICH model using Hemin, a transwell system was utilized to examine how microglia-driven inflammation and ICH-triggered neuronal ferroptosis interact. Immunostaining, Western blotting and RT-qPCR were used to evaluate the microglial heterogenization and neuronal ferroptosis. Microglial heterogenization, neuronal ferroptosis, and neurological dysfunctions were assessed in vivo ICH mice model performed by autologous blood injection.

RESULTS

HDAC1/2 inhibition altered microglial heterogenization after ICH, as showing the reducing neuroinflammation and shifting microglia towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype by immunostaining and qPCR results. HDAC1/2 inhibition reduced ferroptosis, characterized by high ROS and low GPx4 expression in HT22 cells, and reduced iron and lipid deposition post-ICH in vivo. Additionally, the Nrf2/HO1 signaling pathway, especially acetyl-Nrf2, activated in the in vivo ICH model due to HDAC1/2 inhibition, plays a role in regulating microglial heterogenization. Furthermore, HDAC1/2 inhibition improved sensorimotor and histological outcomes post-ICH, offering a potential mechanism against ICH.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of HDAC1/2 reduces neuro-ferroptosis by modifying the heterogeneity of microglia via the Nrf2/HO1 pathway, with a particular focus on acetyl-Nrf2. Additionally, this inhibition aids in the faster removal of hematomas and lessens prolonged neurological impairments, indicating novel approach for treating ICH.

Membrane Dynamics and Cation Handling in Ferroptosis

Ferroptosis, a regulated cell death hallmarked by excessive lipid peroxidation, is implicated in various (patho)physiological contexts. During ferroptosis, lipid peroxidation leads to a diverse change in membrane properties and the dysregulation of ion homeostasis via the cation channels, ultimately resulting in plasma membrane rupture. This review illuminates cellular membrane dynamics and cation handling in ferroptosis regulation.

Inhibition of NF-κB signaling unveils novel strategies to overcome drug resistance in cancers

Drug resistance in cancer remains a major challenge in oncology, impeding the effectiveness of various treatment modalities. The nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway has emerged as a critical player in the development of drug resistance in cancer cells. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between NF-κB and drug resistance in cancer. We delve into the molecular mechanisms through which NF-κB activation contributes to resistance against chemotherapeutic agents, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies to overcome this resistance by targeting NF-κB signaling, such as small molecule inhibitors and combination therapies. Understanding the multifaceted interactions between NF-κB and drug resistance is crucial for the development of more effective cancer treatment strategies. By dissecting the complex signaling network of NF-κB, we hope to shed light on novel therapeutic approaches that can enhance treatment outcomes, ultimately improving the prognosis for cancer patients. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on NF-κB and its role in drug resistance, offering insights that may guide future research and therapeutic interventions in the fight against cancer.

Dimethyl fumarate induces cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish via down-regulation of oxidative stress

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an immunosuppressant commonly used to treat multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. Despite known side effects such as lymphopenia, the effect of DMF on cardiac development remains unclear. To assess this, we used zebrafish to evaluate the cardiac developmental toxicity of DMF. Our study showed that DMF reduced the survival rate of zebrafish embryos, with those exposed to 1, 1.3, and 1.6 mg/L exhibiting heart rate reduction, shortened body length, delayed yolk sac absorption, pericardial edema, increased distance from sinus venous to bulbus arteriosus, and separation of cardiomyocytes and endocardial cells at 72 hpf. Heart development-related genes showed disorder, apoptosis-related genes were up-regulated, and the oxidative stress response was down-regulated. Treatment with cysteamine ameliorated the heart development defects. Our study demonstrates that DMF induces cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish, possibly by down-regulating oxidative stress responses. This study provides a certain research basis for further study of DMF-induced cardiac developmental toxicity, and provides some experimental evidence for future clinical application and study of DMF.

Physical and social environmental enrichment alleviate ferroptosis and inflammation with inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK pathway in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats

A typical enriched environment (EE), which combines physical activity and social interaction, has been proven to mitigate cognitive impairment caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH). However, it remains unclear how the different components of EE promote cognitive recovery after CCH. This study stripped out the different components of EE into physical environmental enrichment (PE) and social environmental enrichment (SE), and compared the neuroprotective effects of PE, SE and typical EE (PSE) in CCH. The results of novel object recognition and Morris water maze tests showed that PE, SE, and PSE improved cognitive function in CCH rats. Additionally, Nissl and TUNEL staining revealed that three EEs reduced neuronal loss in the hippocampus. PSE exhibited superior neuroprotective and functional improvement effects compared to PE and SE, while there was no significant difference between PE and SE. Furthermore, three EEs reduced lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus with decreasing the levels of MDA and increasing the activities of SOD and GSH. The expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4 was increased, while the level of p53 was reduced in three EEs. This suggested that three EEs inhibited ferroptosis by maintaining the redox homeostasis in the hippocampus. Three EEs reduced the levels of IL-β, TNF-α, and IL-6, thereby inhibiting neuroinflammation. Additionally, Western blotting and immunofluorescence results indicated that three EEs also inhibited the TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK signaling pathway. These findings collectively demonstrated that the three EEs alleviated hippocampal ferroptosis and neuroinflammation in CCH rats, thereby reducing neuronal loss, which might be associated with the inhibition of the TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK signaling pathway. Moreover, the study results supported that it is only through the combination of physical exercise and social interaction that the optimal neuroprotective effects can be achieved. These findings provided valuable insights for the prevention and treatment of vascular cognitive impairment.

Orexin-A alleviates ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) has high disability and mortality rate. Oxidative stress and ferroptosis are important pathophysiological characteristics after TBI. Orexin-A (OXA) can alleviate neuronal damage in diverse neurological disorders. Nevertheless, the role and mechanism of OXA in TBI stay unknown.

OBJECTIVES

The research investigated protection influence of OXA on TBI and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly grouped into: sham, TBI, TBI + normal saline (NS) and TBI+OXA groups. TBI model was constructed in rat via modified Feeney's approach, and OXA treatment was administered following construction of TBI model.

RESULTS

Relative to TBI+NS group, TBI+OXA group displayed greatly recovered tissue damage and neurological deficits. Additionally, OXA eased oxidative stress as well as ferroptosis in cerebral cortex of rats following TBI. Furthermore, OXA increased Nrf2 expression and regulating factors HO-1 and NQO1 in cerebral cortex of TBI rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research found OXA may restrain ferroptosis via Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway activation, thereby reducing brain injury after TBI.

Puerarin Attenuates Iron Overload-Induced Ferroptosis in Retina through a Nrf2-Mediated Mechanism

SCOPE

Age-related increases in retinal iron are involved in the development of retinal degeneration. The recently discovered iron-dependent mechanism of cell death known as ferroptosis has been linked to a wide range of pathologies. However, its role in iron overload-induced retinal degeneration is still uncertain. Puerarin has been associated with retinal protection. The purpose of this research is to determine how puerarin prevents retinal ferroptosis under iron overload conditions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Models of iron overload in Kunming mice, 661W cell, and ARPE-19 cell are established. Increased iron deposition significantly worsens retinal pathology, decreases cell viability, and induces ferroptotic changes. Puerarin mitigates iron overload-induced ferroptosis by decreasing excessive iron through the regulation of iron handling proteins and lowering lipid peroxidation through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase 2 expression and activation of the nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway and downstream ferroptosis-related proteins (solute carrier family 7 member 11, glutathione peroxidase 4 and heme oxygenase-1). The protective effect of puerarin on ferroptosis is diminished by the Nrf2-specific inhibitor ML385.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest targeting ferroptosis may be a novel strategy for the management of retinal degeneration. Puerarin may exert some of its ocular benefits by attenuating ferroptosis.

The role of ferroptosis and its mechanism in ischemic stroke

Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular disease with a high morbidity, mortality, and disability rate. Persistent ischemia of brain tissue can cause irreversible damage to neurons, leading to neurological dysfunction and seriously affecting patients' quality of life. However, current clinical therapies are limited and have not achieved satisfactory outcome, due to the incomplete understanding of the mechanism of neuronal damage during ischemic stroke. Recent studies have found that ferroptosis is implicated in the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulated cell death driven by lipid peroxidation. Under normal physiological conditions, GSH/GPX4, FSP1/CoQ10, GCH/BH4 and other anti-ferroptosis pathways can function effectively to suppress the occurrence of ferroptosis. After ischemic stroke, two typical ferroptosis characteristics, lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation, are observed, accompanied by changes in the expression of ferroptosis related genes such as GPX4, ACSL4, and SLC7A11, suggesting that ferroptosis plays a key role in ischemic stroke, which provides a new idea for the clinical treatment of ischemic stroke. This article reviewed the pathological mechanisms of ferroptosis in the occurrence and development of ischemic stroke, as well as the related progress of ferroptosis targeted therapy.

Heart-brain interaction in cardiogenic dementia: pathophysiology and therapeutic potential

Diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiovascular and neurologic diseases primarily focus on the heart and brain, respectively. An increasing number of preclinical and clinical studies have confirmed a causal relationship between heart and brain diseases. Cardiogenic dementia is a cognitive impairment caused by heart dysfunction and has received increasing research attention. The prevention and treatment of cardiogenic dementia are essential to improve the quality of life, particularly in the elderly and aging population. This study describes the changes in cognitive function associated with coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, atrial fibrillation and heart valve disease. An updated understanding of the two known pathogenic mechanisms of cardiogenic dementia is presented and discussed. One is a cascade of events caused by cerebral hypoperfusion due to long-term reduction of cardiac output after heart disease, and the other is cognitive impairment regardless of the changes in cerebral blood flow after cardiac injury. Furthermore, potential medications for the prevention and treatment of cardiogenic dementia are reviewed, with particular attention to multicomponent herbal medicines.

A circRNA ceRNA network involved in cognitive dysfunction after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion

Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion (CCH) is associated with cognitive dysfunction, the underlying mechanisms of which remain elusive, hindering the development of effective therapeutic approaches. In this study, we employed an established CCH animal model to delve into neuropathological alterations like oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotransmitter synthesis deficits, and other morphological alterations. Our findings revealed that while the number of neurons remained unchanged, there was a significant reduction in neuronal fibers post-CCH, as evidenced by microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) staining. Moreover, myelin basic protein (MBP) staining showed exacerbated demyelination of neuronal fibers. Furthermore, we observed increased neuroinflammation, proliferation, and activation of astrocytes and microglia, as well as synaptic loss and microglial-mediated synapse engulfment post-CCH. Utilizing RNA sequencing, differential expression analysis displayed alterations in both mRNAs and circRNAs. Following gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses, both showed significant enrichment in immunological and inflammation-related terms and pathways. Importantly, the differentially expressed circular RNAs (DE circRNAs) exhibited a notable coexpression pattern with DE mRNAs. The ternary circRNA-miRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) network was constructed, and subsequent analysis reiterated the significance of neuroimmunological and neuroinflammatory dysfunction in CCH-induced neuropathological changes and cognitive dysfunction. This study underscores the potential role of circRNAs in these processes, suggesting them as promising therapeutic targets to mitigate the detrimental effects of CCH.

Exploring the efficacious constituents and underlying mechanisms of sini decoction for sepsis treatment through network pharmacology and multi-omics

BACKGROUND

Traditional Chinese medicine prescription sini decoction (SND) can alleviate inflammation, improve microcirculation, and modulate immune status in sepsis patients. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and therapeutic effects may vary among individuals.

PURPOSE

Through a comprehensive and systematic network pharmacology analysis, the purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of SND in treating sepsis.

METHODS

An analysis of WGCNA identified CX3CR1 as a key gene influencing sepsis prognosis. A drug-active component-target network for SND was created using the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and Cytoscape software. Shared targets between SND and CX3CR1 high-expression gene modules were found through the GEO database. Gene module functionality was analyzed using GO, KEGG, GSEA, and GSVA. Unsupervised clustering of sepsis patients was performed based on the ferroptosis gene set, and immune cell interactions and mechanisms were explored using CIBERSORT, single-cell sequencing, and intercellular communication analysis.

RESULTS

This study demonstrates that high expression of CX3CR1 improves survival rates in sepsis patients and is associated with immune cell signaling pathways. SND contains 116 active components involved in oxidative stress and lipid metabolism pathways. HMOX1, a co-expressed gene in SND and CX3CR1 high-expression gene module, plays a crucial role in sepsis survival. Unsupervised clustering analysis classified sepsis patients into three clusters based on the ferroptosis gene set, revealing differences in immune cell expression and involvement in heme metabolism pathways. Notably, intercellular interactions among immune cells primarily occur through paracrine and autocrine mechanisms in MIF, GALECTIN, and IL16 signaling pathways, modulating the immune-inflammatory microenvironment in sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies CX3CR1 as a crucial molecule impacting sepsis prognosis through WGCNA analysis. It reveals that SND's active component, quercetin and kaempferol, target HMOX1 via related pathways to regulate heme metabolism, reduce inflammation, inhibit ferroptosis, and improve immune function, ultimately improving sepsis prognosis. These findings offer a solid pharmacological foundation and potential therapeutic targets for SND in treating sepsis.

Isoquercitrin promotes ferroptosis and oxidative stress in nasopharyngeal carcinoma via the AMPK/NF-κB pathway

Isoquercitrin has been discovered with various biological properties, including anticancer, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, and neuroprotection. The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy of isoquercitrin in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and to disclose its potential regulating mechanisms. CNE1 and HNE1 cells were treated with various concentrations of isoquercitrin. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1, a ferroptosis inhibitor) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA, an activator of the AMP-activated protein kinase [AMPK] pathway) treatments were conducted to verify the effects of isoquercitrin, respectively. Cell viability, proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and lipid peroxidation were determined, respectively. GPX4 expression and ferroptosis- and pathway-related protein expression were measured. A xenograft tumor model was constructed by subcutaneously inoculating CNE1 cells into the middle groin of each mouse. We found that the IC50 values of CNE1 and HNE1 cells were 392.45 and 411.38 μM, respectively. CNE1 and HNE1 viability and proliferation were both markedly reduced with the increasing concentration of isoquercitrin. ROS generation and lipid peroxidation were both enhanced with declined ferroptosis-related markers under isoquercitrin treatment. The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, the AMPK pathway, and the interleukin (IL)-1β expression were all markedly suppressed by isoquercitrin. Moreover, isoquercitrin restrained the tumor growth and enhanced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis in vivo. Interestingly, both Fer-1 and ALA treatments distinctly offset isoquercitrin-induced effects in vitro and in vivo. These findings indicated that isoquercitrin might enhance oxidative stress and ferroptosis in NPC via AMPK/NF-κB p65 inhibition.

Tangeretin confers neuroprotection, cognitive and memory enhancement in global cerebral ischemia in rats

Global cerebral ischemia is commonly associated with neurological deficits, including cognitive and memory impairments. The present study aims to investigate the neuroprotective, cognitive, and memory enhancement effects of Tangeretin, a flavonoid against global cerebral ischemia in rats. Bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) and reperfusion injury method was used to induce global cerebral ischemia in rats. Motor, cognitive, and memory functions were evaluated using rotarod, grip strength, Y-maze, and Morris water maze. Further, acetylcholine esterase (AchE) enzyme activity, acetylcholine (Ach), oxidative stress markers (ROS, SOD, MDA, and CAT), inflammation (IL-6 and TNF-α), and apoptotic markers (cytochrome C, caspase 9, and caspase 3) in BCCAO rats were measured following Tangeretin (5,10, and 20 mg/kg, oral) treatment. Our findings show that Tangeretin treatment significantly improved cognition and memory by enhancing Ach levels through the amelioration of AchE enzyme activity in BCCAO rats. Moreover, Tangeretin exhibited neuroprotective effects through the mitigation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the BCCAO rats. In summary, the current findings suggested that Tangeretin exhibited neuroprotection, cognitive and memory enhancement against global cerebral ischemia.

Upregulation of NF-κB by USP24 aggravates ferroptosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Recent investigations have proposed a potential causal association between the occurrence of ferroptosis, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and ubiquitin-specific protease 24 (USP24). Nevertheless, the mechanism of USP24 and NF-κB regulation of ferroptosis in the context of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) remain unclear.

METHODS

In this study, a high-fat diet and a streptozotocin-induced mouse DCM model were established, and high glucose and palmitic acid treatment of H9c2 cells and neonatal mouse primary cardiomyocytes (NMPCs) was used as an in vitro DCM models. Utilizing both the in vivo and in vitro DCM models, we assessed of USP24, NF-κB, and ferroptosis levels, and explored the relationship among them.

RESULTS

In in vivo and in vitro DCM models, increased expression of USP24, NF-κB, phosphorylated NF-κB (p-NF-κB) and fatty acid-CoA ligase 4 (FACL4) were detected, along with accumulated iron, as well as reduced ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) and antioxidant capacity. Knockdown of USP24 resulted in a reduction of NF-κB levels, while knockdown of NF-κB did not lead to a decrease in USP24 expression. Moreover, in H9c2 cells, knockdown of USP24 and NF-κB separately resulted in reduced levels of FACL4, increased levels of SLC7A11 and FTH1, as well as improved antioxidant capacity and cell viability. In shUSP24 knockdown H9c2 cells, administration of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) activated NF-κB, subsequently reversing the previously observed effect caused by USP24 knockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings show that USP24 upregulates NF-κB to promote ferroptosis in DCM.

Targeting epigenetic and posttranslational modifications regulating ferroptosis for the treatment of diseases

Ferroptosis, a unique modality of cell death with mechanistic and morphological differences from other cell death modes, plays a pivotal role in regulating tumorigenesis and offers a new opportunity for modulating anticancer drug resistance. Aberrant epigenetic modifications and posttranslational modifications (PTMs) promote anticancer drug resistance, cancer progression, and metastasis. Accumulating studies indicate that epigenetic modifications can transcriptionally and translationally determine cancer cell vulnerability to ferroptosis and that ferroptosis functions as a driver in nervous system diseases (NSDs), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), liver diseases, lung diseases, and kidney diseases. In this review, we first summarize the core molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis. Then, the roles of epigenetic processes, including histone PTMs, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNA regulation and PTMs, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, methylation, and ADP-ribosylation, are concisely discussed. The roles of epigenetic modifications and PTMs in ferroptosis regulation in the genesis of diseases, including cancers, NSD, CVDs, liver diseases, lung diseases, and kidney diseases, as well as the application of epigenetic and PTM modulators in the therapy of these diseases, are then discussed in detail. Elucidating the mechanisms of ferroptosis regulation mediated by epigenetic modifications and PTMs in cancer and other diseases will facilitate the development of promising combination therapeutic regimens containing epigenetic or PTM-targeting agents and ferroptosis inducers that can be used to overcome chemotherapeutic resistance in cancer and could be used to prevent other diseases. In addition, these mechanisms highlight potential therapeutic approaches to overcome chemoresistance in cancer or halt the genesis of other diseases.

Machine learning algorithms for a novel cuproptosis-related gene signature of diagnostic and immune infiltration in endometriosis

Endometriosis (EMT) is an aggressive disease of the reproductive system, also called "benign cancer". However, effective treatments for EMT are still lacking in clinical practice. Interestingly, immune infiltration is significantly involved in EMT pathogenesis. Currently, no studies have shown the involvement of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in regulating immune infiltration in EMT. This study identified three CRGs such as GLS, NFE2L2, and PDHA1, associated with EMT using machine learning algorithms. These three CRGs were upregulated in the endometrium of patients with moderate/severe EMT and downregulated in patients with infertility. Single sample genomic enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) revealed that these CRGs were closely correlated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus. Furthermore, these CRGs were correlated with immune cells such as eosinophils, natural killer cells, and macrophages. Therefore, profiling patients based on these genes aid in a more accurate diagnosis of EMT progression. The mRNA and protein expression levels of GLS, NFE2L2 and PDHA1 were validated by qRT-PCR and WB studies in EMT samples. These findings provide a new idea for the pathology and treatment of endometriosis, suggesting that CRGs such as GLS, NFE2L2 and PDHA1 may play a key role in the occurrence and development of endometriosis.

Ferroptosis: an important player in the inflammatory response in diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects millions of diabetic patients worldwide. The key to treating of DN is early diagnosis and prevention. Once the patient enters the clinical proteinuria stage, renal damage is difficult to reverse. Therefore, developing early treatment methods is critical. DN pathogenesis results from various factors, among which the immune response and inflammation play major roles. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of programmed cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and excessive ROS production. Recent studies have demonstrated that inflammation activation is closely related to the occurrence and development of ferroptosis. Moreover, hyperglycemia induces iron overload, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal fibrosis, all of which are related to DN pathogenesis, indicating that ferroptosis plays a key role in the development of DN. Therefore, this review focuses on the regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis, and the mutual regulatory processes involved in the occurrence and development of DN and inflammation. By discussing and analyzing the relationship between ferroptosis and inflammation in the occurrence and development of DN, we can deepen our understanding of DN pathogenesis and develop new therapeutics targeting ferroptosis or inflammation-related regulatory mechanisms for patients with DN.

Dimethyl fumarate attenuates cholestatic liver injury by activating the NRF2 and FXR pathways and suppressing NLRP3/GSDMD signaling in mice

The progression of cholestasis is characterized by excessive accumulation of bile acids (BAs) in the liver, which leads to oxidative stress (OS), inflammation and liver injury. There are currently limited treatments for cholestasis. Therefore, appropriate drugs for cholestasis treatment need to be developed. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) has been widely used in the treatment of various diseases and exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but its effect on cholestatic liver disease remains unclarified. We fed mice 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine or cholic acid to induce cholestatic liver injury and treated these mice with DMF to evaluate its protective ability. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total liver BAs were assessed as indicators of liver function. The levels of OS, liver inflammation, transporters and metabolic enzymes were also measured. DMF markedly altered the relative ALT and AST levels and enhanced the liver antioxidant capacity. DMF regulated the MST/NRF2 signaling pathway to protect against OS and reduced liver inflammation through the NLRP3/GSDMD signaling pathway. DMF also regulated the levels of BA transporters by promoting FXR protein expression. These findings provide new strategies for the treatment of cholestatic liver disorders.

Saikosaponin A alleviates Staphylococcus aureus-induced mastitis in mice by inhibiting ferroptosis via SIRT1/Nrf2 pathway

Mastitis is a common and serious bacterial infection of the mammary gland. Saikosaponin A (SSA) is a triterpenoid saponin isolated from Bupleurum falcatum that has the ability to treat various diseases. However, little is known about the role of SSA in achieving mastitis remission. Here, we found that SSA alleviated Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)-induced mastitis by attenuating inflammation and maintaining blood-milk barrier integrity. Furthermore, S. aureus activated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway by upregulated p-p65 and p-IκB. S. aureus also induced ferroptosis in mammary gland in mice, mainly characterized by excessive iron accumulation, mitochondrial morphological changes and impaired antioxidant production. However, S. aureus-induced NF-κB activation and ferroptosis were prevented by SSA. Moreover, SAA could upregulate the expression of SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1 and GPX4. And the inhibitory effects of SAA on inflammation and ferroptosis were reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527. In conclusion, SAA protected S. aureus-induced mastitis through suppressing inflammation and ferroptosis by activating SIRT1/Nrf2 pathway.

Research on ferroptosis as a therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Ferroptosis is an iron- and lipid peroxidation (LPO)-mediated programmed cell death type. Recently, mounting evidence has indicated the involvement of ferroptosis in neurodegenerative diseases, especially in Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), and so on. Treating ferroptosis presents opportunities as well as challenges for neurodegenerative diseases. This review provides a comprehensive overview of typical features of ferroptosis and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to its occurrence, as well as their implications in the pathogenesis and advancement of major neurodegenerative disorders. Meanwhile, we summarize the utilization of ferroptosis inhibition in both experimental and clinical approaches for the treatment of major neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, we specifically summarize recent advances in developing therapeutic means targeting ferroptosis in these diseases, which may guide future approaches for the effective management of these devastating medical conditions.

Activation of Nrf2/ARE pathway by Anisodamine (654-2) for Inhibition of cellular aging and alleviation of Radiation-Induced lung injury

BACKGROUND

Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is a common side effect of thoracic tumor radiotherapy, including early-stage radiation-induced lung injury (RP) and late-stage radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis (RIPF). Currently, it is urgently needed to clarify the pathogenesis of RILI and find safe and effective RILI treatment methods. Irradiation causes DNA damage and oxidative stress in tissues and cells, induces cellular senescence, and promotes the occurrence and development of RILI. In recent years, Anisodamine (654-2) has shown potential therapeutic value in acute lung injury, acute kidney injury, chlamydial pneumonia, and COVID-19. However, there is currently no research on the mechanism of 654-2-mediated cellular senescence and its preventive and therapeutic effects on RILI.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of 654-2 on X-ray-induced RILI.

METHODS

In vivo experiments involved a mouse RILI model with 18 Gy X-ray irradiation. Mice were divided into control, model, medication (control + 654-2), and treatment (model + 654-2) groups. And mice in medication and treatment groups were intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg 654-2 every other day until being sacrificed at week 6. In vitro experiments used MLE-12 cells irradiated with 16 Gy and divided into control, model, and model + 654-2（2 μM and 10 μM） groups. Various assays were performed to evaluate lung tissue morphology, fibrosis, apoptosis, cytokine expression, cellular senescence, protein expression, and antioxidant capacity.

RESULTS

654-2 mitigated pulmonary pathological damage, inflammation, DNA damage, cellular senescence, and apoptosis in RILI mice and MLE-12 cells. It restored epithelial cell proliferation ability and enhanced antioxidant capacity. Additionally, 654-2 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway, increased Nrf2 phosphorylation, and upregulated antioxidant gene expression. Inhibition of Nrf2 reversed the effects of 654-2 on ROS production, antioxidant capacity, and cell senescence.

CONCLUSION

654-2 can activate the Nrf2/ARE pathway, enhance cellular antioxidant capacity, and inhibit cellular senescence, thereby exerting a protective effect against RILI.

A Review of the Potential of Nuclear Factor [Erythroid-Derived 2]-like 2 Activation in Autoimmune Diseases

An autoimmune disease is the consequence of the immune system attacking healthy cells, tissues, and organs by mistake instead of protecting them. Inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are well-recognized processes occurring in association with acute or chronic impairment of cell homeostasis. The transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor [erythroid-derived 2]-like 2) is of major importance as the defense instrument against OS and alters anti-inflammatory activities related to different pathological states. Researchers have described Nrf2 as a significant regulator of innate immunity. Growing indications suggest that the Nrf2 signaling pathway is deregulated in numerous diseases, including autoimmune disorders. The advantageous outcome of the pharmacological activation of Nrf2 is an essential part of Nrf2-based chemoprevention and intervention in other chronic illnesses, such as neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, and chronic kidney and liver disease. Nevertheless, a growing number of investigations have indicated that Nrf2 is already elevated in specific cancer and disease steps, suggesting that the pharmacological agents developed to mitigate the potentially destructive or transformative results associated with the protracted activation of Nrf2 should also be evaluated. The activators of Nrf2 have revealed an improvement in the progress of OS-associated diseases, resulting in immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory activities; by contrast, the depletion of Nrf2 worsens disease progression. These data strengthen the growing attention to the biological properties of Nrf2 and its possible healing power on diseases. The evidence supporting a correlation between Nrf2 signaling and the most common autoimmune diseases is reviewed here. We focus on the aspects related to the possible effect of Nrf2 activation in ameliorating pathologic conditions based on the role of this regulator of antioxidant genes in the control of inflammation and OS, which are processes related to the progression of autoimmune diseases. Finally, the possibility of Nrf2 activation as a new drug development strategy to target pathogenesis is proposed.

D-β-Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase Mitigates Diabetes-Induced Atherosclerosis through the Activation of Nrf2

BACKGROUND

 We aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (Bdh1) in regulating macrophage oxidative stress in diabetes-induced atherosclerosis (AS).

METHODS

 We performed immunohistochemical analysis of femoral artery sections to determine differences in Bdh1 expression between normal participants, AS patients, and patients with diabetes-induced AS. Diabetic Apoe-/- mice and high-glucose (HG)-treated Raw264.7 macrophages were used to replicate the diabetes-induced AS model. The role of Bdh1 in this disease model was determined by adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression of Bdh1 or overexpression or silencing of Bdh1.

RESULTS

 We observed reduced expression of Bdh1 in patients with diabetes-induced AS, HG-treated macrophages, and diabetic Apoe-/- mice. AAV-mediated Bdh1 overexpression attenuated aortic plaque formation in diabetic Apoe-/- mice. Silencing of Bdh1 resulted in increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and an inflammatory response in macrophages, which were reversed by the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine. Overexpression of Bdh1 protected Raw264.7 cells from HG-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting ROS overproduction. In addition, Bdh1 induced oxidative stress through nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation by fumarate acid.

CONCLUSION

 Bdh1 attenuates AS in Apoe-/- mice with type 2 diabetes, accelerates lipid degradation, and reduces lipid levels by promoting ketone body metabolism. Moreover, it activates the Nrf2 pathway of Raw264.7 by regulating the metabolic flux of fumarate, which inhibits oxidative stress and leads to a decrease in ROS and inflammatory factor production.

Neuroprotective effect of lansoprazole against cisplatin-induced brain toxicity: Role of Nrf2/ARE and Akt/P53 signaling pathways

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent usually used in treating different patterns of malignancies. One of the significant apparent complications of cisplatin chemotherapy is brain toxicity. The present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of lansoprazole on cisplatin-induced cortical intoxication. Thirty-two rats were allocated into four groups (8 rats/group); group I: received only a vehicle for 10 days, group II: lansoprazole was administered (50 mg/kg) via oral gavage for 10 days, group III: On 5th day of the experiment, rats were given cisplatin (10 mg/kg) i.p. once to induce cortical injury. Group IV: rats were given lansoprazole for 5 days before cisplatin and 5 days afterward. Lansoprazole administration significantly improved cisplatin-induced behavioral changes, as evidenced by decreasing the immobility time in forced swimming and open field tests. Besides, lansoprazole improved cortical histological changes, restored cortical redox balance, enhanced Nrf2/ARE expression, cisplatin-induced neuronal apoptosis, and dampened cisplatin inflammation. In addition, lansoprazole modulated cortical Akt/p53 signal. The present work was the first to show that lansoprazole co-administration reduced cortical toxicity in cisplatin-treated rats via multiple signaling pathways. The current findings provided crucial information for developing novel protective strategies to reduce cisplatin cortical toxicity.