Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside inhibits the UVB-induced ROS/COX-2 pathway in HaCaT cells

Prevention of Male Late-Onset Hypogonadism by Natural Polyphenolic Antioxidants

Androgen production primarily occurs in Leydig cells located in the interstitial compartment of the testis. In aging males, testosterone is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength, bone density, sexual function, metabolic health, energy levels, cognitive function, as well as overall well-being. As men age, testosterone production by Leydig cells of the testes begins to decline at a rate of approximately 1% per year starting from their 30s. This review highlights recent findings concerning the use of natural polyphenolics compounds, such as flavonoids, resveratrol, and phenolic acids, to enhance testosterone production, thereby preventing age-related degenerative conditions associated with testosterone insufficiency. Interestingly, most of the natural polyphenolic antioxidants having beneficial effects on testosterone production tend to enhance the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star) gene in Leydig cells. The STAR protein facilitates the entry of the steroid precursor cholesterol inside mitochondria, a rate-limiting step for androgen biosynthesis. Natural polyphenolic compounds can also improve the activities of steroidogenic enzymes, hypothalamus-pituitary gland axis signaling, and testosterone bioavailability. Thus, many polyphenolic compounds such as luteolin, quercetin, resveratrol, ferulic acid phenethyl ester or gigantol may be promising in delaying the initiation of late-onset hypogonadism accompanying aging in males.

Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Juice Supplementation Improves Oxidative Stress and Aging Markers in Testis of Aged Rats

Spermatogenesis is a process that continues until the end of an individual's life, although with reduced activity with advancing age. Inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis are events considered as predictors of pathogenesis and the development of age-related diseases observed in aged testes. The use of natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties has a beneficial effect on the inflammatory and oxidative status of the aged testis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supplementation with antioxidant-rich black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) juice on several markers of oxidative stress and aging in rat testis. In total, 24 male Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups: young controls aged 2 months, old controls aged 27 months, and 27-month-old rats supplemented with black chokeberry juice at a dose of 10 mL/kg for 3 months. A. melanocarpa juice supplementation led to reduced oxidative stress, manifested by increased immunoexpression of nNOS, eNOS, and MAS1 in the seminiferous tubules and in the Leydig cells. The morphometrically determined tubule structure data showed no significant differences between the three groups. However, the intensity of the immunoreaction for TRK-C and NT3 in Leydig cells was demonstrably higher in the supplemented old animals compared with the old controls. There was a significantly higher number of blood vessels around the seminiferous tubules in the supplemented animals compared to the old controls. These data indicate that supplementation with A. melanocarpa juice slows down aging processes in the testis and preserves the functional activity of Leydig cells.

Ferulic acid in synergy with retinol alleviates oxidative injury of HaCaT cells during UVB-induced photoaging

Application of retinol (Vitamin A, VA) in skincare is limited for instability, poor water solubility, and skin intolerance that combats skin aging. We employed computer-aided virtual screening and cell experiments with transcriptomics, thereby unveiling the comprehensive gene expression and regulation pathway of photoaging HaCaT cell treated with ferulic acid (FA) in synergizing with VA. Through network pharmacology analysis, the combined use of VA and FA exhibited highly correlated cross-targets with skin aging acting on EGFR, PTPN1, ESR2, GSK3B, BACE1, PYGL, PTGS2 and APP. The indicators of oxidative stress, such as SOD, GSH, MDA, CAT and ROS in HaCaT cells after co-administration, were significantly improved from those in photoaging group (p<0.0001). 155 differential expressed genes (DEGs) were specific between groups, while reducing the expression of PTGS2 was identified as an important regulatory factor in photoaging HaCaT cells by VA and FA. Those DEGs of co-administration group focused on oxidative-reduction enzyme activity, skin growth, keratinization, and steroid biosynthesis. Apparently, the co-administration of VA and FA effectively mitigated the process of UVB-induced photoaging by reducing oxidative stress injury, inflammation responses, and regulating cell growth. This synergistic approach significantly slowed down the photoaging progression and improved the applied performance of VA in HaCaT cells.

The skin photoprotective effect of trilinolein: Induction of cellular autophagy via the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway

Trilinolein (TL) is an active substance contained in traditional Chinese herbs; modern studies have shown that trilinolein has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the body. This study delves into the photoprotective effect of trilinolein on UVB-irradiated Human Skin Fibroblast (HSF) cells and the underlying mechanisms. Our findings reveal that trilinolein had a photoprotective effect on HSF cells: trilinolein enhanced cellular autophagy, restored UVB-inhibited cell proliferative viability, and curbing UVB-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. Intriguingly, after inhibition of TL-induced autophagy via wortmannin, diminished trilinolein's photoprotective effects. Meanwhile, trilinolein was shown to modulate the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway, thus enhance cellular autophagy in HSF cells, and this tendency was suppressed after the administration of compound C (AMPK inhibitor). In a mouse model of skin photodamage, trilinolein significantly mitigated photodamage extent through morphological and histopathological analyses. This study illuminates trilinolein could inhibit the photodamaging effects of UVB irradiation by regulating cellular autophagy through the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway, suggesting its promising application in combating UV-induced skin disorders.

Kangfuxin liquid reduces the ultraviolet B-induced photodamage of HaCaT cells by regulating autophagy

Kangfuxin liquid (KFX), an extract of the American cockroach, has been clinically proven to be effective in various skin damage disorders, but there are no reports on its use in photodamage. We explored the effect of KFX on ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced photodamage and whether its mechanism was related to autophagy. We found that KFX treatment reduced UVB-induced reactive oxygen species production and improved the vitality of cells inhibited by UVB irradiation. The expression of LC3 (A/B), which was inhibited after UVB irradiation, could be rescued by KFX treatment. Furthermore, KFX may upregulate the level of cellular autophagy by regulating the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway. When the autophagy inhibitor wortmannin was used to inhibit autophagy, the protective effect of KFX on cells was diminished or even disappeared. Our study suggests that KFX may resist UVB-mediated oxidative stress damage of HaCaT through the induction of autophagy.

Anthocyanins' effects on diabetes mellitus and islet transplantation

The incidence of diabetes mellitus is dramatically increasing every year, causing a huge global burden. Moreover, existing anti-diabetic drugs inevitably bring adverse reactions, and the application of islet transplantation is often limited by the damage caused by oxidative stress after transplantation. Thus, new approaches are needed to combat the growing burden of diabetes mellitus. Anthocyanins are of great nutritional interest and have been documented that have beneficial effects on chronic diseases, including diabetes mellitus. Here, we describe the health effects of anthocyanins on diabetes mellitus and islet transplantation. Epidemiological studies demonstrated that moderate intake of anthocyanins leading to a reduction in risk of diabetes mellitus. Numerous experiments both animal and clinical studies also showed positive effects of anthocyanins on prevention and treatment of diabetes and diabetic complications. These effects of anthocyanins may be related to mechanisms of improving glucose and lipid metabolism and insulin resistance, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. In addition, damage and function of pancreatic islets after transplantation are also improved by anthocyanins. These findings suggest that daily intake of anthocyanins may not only improve nutritional metabolism in healthy individuals to prevent from diabetes, but also as a supplementary treatment of diabetes mellitus and islet transplantation. Thus, more evidence is needed to better understand the potential health benefits of anthocyanins.

Influence of chlorpyrifos exposure on UVB irradiation induced toxicity in human skin cells

BACKGROUND

Although chlorpyrifos (CPS) has been banned in many developed countries, it still remains one of the best-selling pesticides in the world. Widespread environmental and occupational exposure to CPS pose a serious risk to human health. Another environmental factor that can adversely affect human health is ultraviolet radiation B (UVB, 280-315 nm wave length). Here we attempt determine if exposure to CPS can modify toxic effects of UVB. Such situation might be a common phenomenon in agriculture workers, where exposure to both factors takes place.

METHODS

Two skin cell lines; namely human immortalized keratinocytes HaCaT and BJ human fibroblasts were used in this study. Cytotoxicity was investigated using a cell membrane damage detection assay (LDH Cytotoxicity Assay), a DNA damage detection assay (Comet Assay), an apoptosis induction detection assay (Apo-ONE Homogeneous Caspase-3/7 Assay) and a cell reactive oxygen species detection assay (ROS-Glo H2O2 assay). Cytokine IL-6 production was also measured in cells using an ELISA IL-6 Assay.

RESULTS

Pre-incubation of skin cells with CPS significantly increased UVB-induced toxicity at the highest UVB doses (15 and 20 mJ/cm2). Also pre-exposure of BJ cells to CPS significantly increased the level of DNA damage, except for 20 mJ/cm2 UVB. In contrast, pre-exposure of HaCaT cells, to CPS prior to UVB radiation did not cause any significant changes. A decrease in caspase 3/7 activity was observed in HaCaT cells pre-exposed to 250 µM CPS and 5 mJ/cm2 UVB. Meanwhile, no statistically significant changes were observed in fibroblasts. In HaCaT cells, pre-exposure to CPS resulted in a statistically significant increase in ROS production. Also, in BJ cells, similar results were obtained except for 20 mJ/cm2. Interestingly, CPS seems to inhibited IL-6 production in HaCaT and BJ cells exposed to UVB (in the case of HaCaT cells for all UVB doses, while for BJ cells only at 15 and 20 mJ/cm2).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the present study indicates that CPS may contribute to the increased UVB-induced toxicity in skin cells, which was likely due to the induction of ROS formation along with the generation of DNA damage. However, further studies are required to gain better understanding of the mechanisms involved.

The in vitro effects of black soldier fly larvae (Hermitia illucens) oil as a high-functional active ingredient for inhibiting hyaluronidase, anti-oxidation benefits, whitening, and UVB protection

Objective: Larvae of Hermitia illucens, or black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), have been recognized for their high lipid yield with a remarkable fatty acid profile. BSFL oil (SFO) offers the added value of a low environmental footprint and a sustainable product. In this study, the characteristics and cosmetic-related activities of SFO were investigated and compared with rice bran oil, olive oil and krill oil which are commonly used in cosmetics and supplements. Methods: The physicochemical characteristics were determined including acid value, saponification value, unsaponifiable matter and water content of SFO. The fatty acid composition was determined using GC-MS equipped with TR-FAME. The in vitro antioxidant properties were determined using DPPH, FRAP and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays. Antihyaluronidase (anti-HAase) activity was measured by detecting enzyme activity and molecular docking of candidate compounds toward the HAase enzyme. The safety assessment towards normal human cells was determined using the MTT assay and the UVB protection upon UVB-irradiated fibroblasts was determined using the DCF-DA assay. The whitening effect of SFO was determined using melanin content inhibition. Results: SFO contains more than 60% polyunsaturated fatty acids followed by saturated fatty acids (up to 37%). The most abundant component found in SFO was linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6 cis). Multiple anti-oxidant mechanisms of SFO were discovered. In addition, SFO and krill oil prevented hyaluronic acid (HA) degradation via strong HAase inhibition comparable with the positive control, oleanolic acid. The molecular docking confirmed the binding interactions and molecular recognition of major free fatty acids toward HAase. Furthermore, SFO exhibited no cytotoxicity on primary human skin fibroblasts, HaCaT keratinocytes and PBMCs (IC50 values > 200 μg/mL). SFO possessed significant in-situ anti-oxidant activity in UVB-irradiated fibroblasts and the melanin inhibition activity as effective as well-known anti-pigmenting compounds (kojic acid and arbutin, p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides scientific support for various aspects of SFO. SFO can be considered an alternative oil ingredient in cosmetic products with potential implications for anti-skin aging, whitening and UVB protection properties, making it a potential candidate oil in the cosmetic industry.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells via modulating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a major bioactive compound in tea polyphenol extract. After ingestion, EGCG reaches the intestine and may commence anti-inflammation in the intestinal organ. Thus, in this paper, the anti-inflammatory effect of EGCG was studied using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells. LPS induction instigated morphological deformation extensively which was normalized by EGCG. In LPS-induced macrophage cells, EGCG was found to lower cellular nitric oxide (32% of LPS group) and intercellular ROS level (45.4% of LPS group). It also suppressed the expression of IL-1β (LPS 132.6 ± 14.6, EGCG 10.67 ± 3.65), IL-6 (LPS 2994.44 ± 178.5, EGCG 408.33 ± 52.34), TNF-α (LPS 27.11 ± 2.84, EGCG 1.22 ± 0.03), and iNOS (LPS 40.45 ± 11.17, EGCG 10.24 ± 0.89). The GO function analysis identified that these differential genes involved 24 biological processes, 18 molecular functions, and 19 cellular component-related processes. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that LPS significantly affects NF-κB, TNF, and TLR signaling pathways. Western blotting revealed that EGCG diminished P-IκB/IκB ratio by 75% and p-p65/p65 by 50% compared to the LPS group. Finally, Arg-1 and CD-206 mRNA expression were determined by RT-PCR, which was consistent with the RNA-Seq result. These findings indicate that EGCG exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing NO and ROS production, suppressing TLR4 protein expression, and inhibiting IκB and p65 phosphorylation.

Untargeted Lipidomics Revealed the Protective Effects of Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside on Bisphenol A-Induced Liver Lipid Metabolism Disorder in Rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an estrogenic endocrine disruptor that induces metabolic disorders. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) has multiple functional activities and is the most abundant anthocyanin belonging to the flavonoid subgroup. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of C3G on BPA-induced liver lipid metabolism disorder and explore its mechanism via lipidomics analysis. The results showed that C3G supplementation significantly ameliorated the serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triacylglycerols (TG), and alanine and aspartate aminotransferase (ALT and AST). Furthermore, liver lipidomics indicated that C3G effectively facilitated the recovery of differential lipid metabolites, including TGs, phosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylcholines, lysophosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylinositol, cholesteryl esters, and phosphatidylserine, and reversed the levels of hepatic lipid synthesis-related genes. Our results suggest that C3G has an effective regulatory effect on BPA-induced disorders of lipid metabolism.

Dietary supplementation with anthocyanin attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal damage through antioxidant effects in yellow-feathered broiler chicks

This study investigated the protective effects of anthocyanin (AC) supplementation on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged yellow-feathered broiler chicks. A total of 480 1-d female broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups: basal diet (CON), basal diet + LPS-challenge (LPS), supplementation with 100 or 400 mg/kg AC + LPS-challenge (AC100, AC400). On d 17 and d 19, birds in LPS, AC100 and AC400 received an intramuscular dose of LPS, while birds in CON received saline. The result showed that (1) LPS injection significantly decreased (P < 0.05) body weight on d 21 and average daily gain of broiler chicks from 1 to 21 days of age, and supplementation with 100 mg/kg AC increased (P < 0.05) those of LPS-challenged broilers. (2) There were no differences among the treatments (P > 0.05) in relative weights of immune organs. (3) Supplementation with AC (AC100 and AC400) increased (P < 0.05) the jejunal villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio (AC100) of LPS-challenged birds. Challenge with LPS decreased the relative expression of OCLN (Occludin), ZO-1, JAM2, and MUC2 in jejunal mucosa of broilers, and supplementation with AC offset the relative expression of ZO-1, JAM2 (AC100 and AC400), and OCLN (AC400) in LPS-injected broilers. (4) LPS-induced increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreases in activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and expression of SOD1, CAT and GPX in jejunal mucosa, were attenuated by dietary AC supplementation. In conclusion, in yellow-feathered broiler chicks, dietary supplementation with AC alleviated LPS-induced declined growth performance and mucosal damage of the intestine through antioxidant effects.

Hesperetin attenuates UVA-induced photodamage in human dermal fibroblast cells

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation causes skin damage. Recently, natural compounds have become an interest to protect skin from UV-induced photodamages.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the protective effects of hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, on UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and photoaging.

RESULTS

Our results showed that hesperetin increased the cell viability, suppressed the intracellular ROS levels, and decreased the expression of MMPs including MMP-1 and MMP-3, pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and COX-2 in UVA-irradiated HDFs. Besides, hesperetin exerted an anti-apoptotic effect by increasing expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and decreasing expression of pro-apoptotic protein Bax. Moreover, these anti-photodamage effects were mediated by inhibition of ERK, p38/AP-1, and NF-κb/p65 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, hesperetin may be useful in the prevention of UVA-induced skin damage.

DHPW1 attenuation of UVB-induced skin photodamage in human immortalized keratinocytes

Ultraviolet radiation (UVB) can result in photodamage to the skin and can seriously threaten health, particularly in the elderly. Oxidative stress and the inflammatory response have been shown to play a significant role in the process. In a previous study, we isolated, purified and identified a polysaccharide from the extract of Dendrobium huoshanense (DHPW1). In this study we evaluated the effect of DHPW1 on ameliorating the UVB photodamage of human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT). Cell proliferation and cell scratch assays were used to evaluate the viability of the HaCaT treated with DHPW1, and a fluorescent probe and Western blot analysis were used to examine the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the expression of proinflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, and NF-κB(p65). The results show that, compared with the control group (UVB irradiation only), DHPW1 significantly improved the viability of UVB-irradiated HaCaT and enhanced the migration rate of the cell scratch after 24 h. The scratch-healing rate reached 90 % after 36 h. DHPW1 also significantly inhibited UVB-induced oxidative stress and expression of proinflammatory factors . Compared with the control group, the production of ROS decreased by 49.11 %, and the relative protein expression of IL-6 and NF-κB(p65) decreased by up to 13.30 % and 31.02 %, respectively. It is concluded that DHPW1 can significantly improve viability and wound closure rate of UVB-irradiated HaCaT. In addition, it can reduce the expression of IL-1 and IL-6 by inhibiting the transcription of NF-κB(p65), thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in UVB-irradiated HaCaT.

UVB-induced SFRP1 methylation potentiates skin damage by promoting cell apoptosis and DNA damage

In response to the accumulation of genetic mutations and cellular changes, ultraviolet radiation B (UVB) skin lesions undergo dysplasia and transform into a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Consistent with our previous findings that secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1), a member of the SFRP gene family, was downregulated in human CSCC tissue samples, we found a significant downregulation of SFRP1 in HaCaT, A431, and SCL-1 cells after UVB irradiation. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) was significantly increased in CSCC tissues as well as UVB-exposed A431 and SCL-1 cells. Bisulfite genomic sequencing analysis showed that the downregulation of SFRP1 was mainly due to methylation of the SFRP1 promoter, as indicated by increased methylation rate of SFRP1 after UVB irradiation in HaCaT cells. Moreover, demethylation treatment with 5-aza'-deoxycytidine (5-AzaC) increased SFRP1 expression and reduced the methylation rate of SFRP1 in HaCaT cells. Flow cytometry analyses demonstrated that 5-AzaC treatment or overexpression of SFRP1 ameliorated UVB-induced apoptosis, while knockdown of SFRP1 promoted UVB-induced apoptosis in HaCaT cells. In addition, a comet assay confirmed that 5-AzaC treatment reduced DNA damage following UVB irradiation, while knockdown of SFRP1 enhanced DNA damage following UVB irradiation. In conclusion, our study identified DNA methylation of SFRP1 as a key mediator in the UVB-induced apoptosis of keratinocytes. These findings indicate that reinforcing SFRP1 defenses by 5-AzaC may help prevent UVB-induced skin damage.

Are TRPA1 and TRPV1 channel-mediated signalling cascades involved in UVB radiation-induced sunburn?

Burn injuries are underappreciated injuries associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation has dramatic clinical effects in humans and is a significant public health concern. Although the mechanisms underlying UVB exposure are not fully understood, many studies have made substantial progress in the pathophysiology of sunburn in terms of its molecular aspects in the last few years. It is well established that the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), and vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels modulate the inflammatory, oxidative, and proliferative processes underlying UVB radiation exposure. However, it is still unknown which mechanisms underlying TRPV1/A1 channel activation are elicited in sunburn induced by UVB radiation. Therefore, in this review, we give an overview of the TRPV1/A1 channel-mediated signalling cascades that may be involved in the pathophysiology of sunburn induced by UVB radiation. These data will undoubtedly help to explain the various features of sunburn and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to better treat it.

Antioxidant and Protective Effect of Acetone Extract of Entada phaseoloides Leaves on UVB-Irradiated Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) by Inhibiting COX-2, iNOS, and Caspase-3 Activation

Chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure produces oxidative stress, molecular damage, and aging-related signal transduction, all of which contribute to skin photoaging. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Entada phaseoloides are reported. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) detected 7 phenolic compounds: gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and apigenin. We investigated the antioxidant and protective effect of the acetone extract of E. phaseoloides leaves (AEP) on UVB-irradiated human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). AEP showed antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. AEP at a concentration of 40 μg/mL increased cell survival rate of the UVB-damaged cells. Moreover, AEP blocked gene expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in UVB-induced HaCaT cells and decreased UVB-induced apoptosis in HaCaT cells by regulating the gene expression of caspase-3. These results suggest that AEP has the potential to protect against UVB irradiation and antioxidant.

Oxidative Transformation of Dihydroflavonols and Flavan-3-ols by Anthocyanidin Synthase from Vitis vinifera

Twelve polyphenols from three distinct families (dihydroflavonols, flavan-3-ols, and flavanones) were studied as potential substrates of anthocyanidin synthase from Vitis vinifera (VvANS). Only flavan-3-ols of (2R,3S) configuration having either a catechol or gallol group on ring B are accepted as substrates. Only dihydroflavonols of (2R,3R) configuration are accepted as substrates, but a catechol or gallol group is not mandatory. Flavanones are not substrates of VvANS. HPLC and MS/MS analyses of the enzymatic products showed that the VvANS-catalyzed oxidative transformation of (+)-dihydroflavonols, such as dihydroquercetin, dihydrokaempferol and dihydromyricetin, leads only to the corresponding flavonols. Among the flavan-3-ols recognized as substrates, (+)-gallocatechin was only transformed into delphinidin by VvANS, whereas (+)-catechin was transformed into three products, including two major products that were an ascorbate-cyanidin adduct and a dimer of oxidized catechin, and a minor product that was cyanidin. Data from real-time MS monitoring of the enzymatic transformation of (+)-catechin suggest that its products are all derived from the initial C₃-hydroxylation intermediate, i.e., a 3,3-gem-diol, and their most likely formation mechanism is discussed.

Hyperoside and Quercitrin in Houttuynia cordata Extract Attenuate UVB-Induced Human Keratinocyte Cell Damage and Oxidative Stress via Modulation of MAPKs and Akt Signaling Pathway

Ultraviolet radiation is a major environmental harmful factor on human skin. In this paper, we investigate the potential mechanism of Houttuynia cordata extract on UVB-induced HaCaT keratinocyte cell death and inflammation. We found that Houttuynia cordata ethyl acetate extract fraction (HC-EA) protected against UVB-induced cell damage. The HPLC results indicate that quercitrin and hyperoside are the major polyphenolics in HC-EA and are responsible for providing protection against UVB-induced cell death. These responses were associated with the regulation of caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation, which rescued HaCaT cells from UVB-induced apoptosis. In addition, HC-EA, quercitrin, and hyperoside attenuated UVB-induced inflammatory mediators, including IL-6, IL-8, COX-2, and iNOS. Furthermore, the treatment of cells with HC-EA and its active compounds abolished intracellular ROS and increased levels of heme oxygenase-1 and superoxide dismutase. UVB-induced ROS production mediated Akt and mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathways, including p38, ERK, and JNK. Our results show HC-EA, quercitrin, and hyperoside decreased UVB-induced p38 and JNK phosphorylation, while increasing ERK and Akt phosphorylation. MAPKs and Akt mediated cell survival and death were confirmed by specific inhibitors to Akt and MAPKs. Thus, HC-EA, which contains quercitrin and hyperoside, protected keratinocyte from UVB-induced oxidative damage and inflammation through the modulation of MAPKs and Akt signaling.

Anti-inflammatory activity of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside liposomes in THP-1 macrophages

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is a kind of water-soluble pigment widely existing in many plants. It has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, C3G cannot exist stably for a long time because of the phenolic hydroxyl groups in its structure. Liposome technology could improve the stability and bioavailability of compounds. Based on our previous studies, C3G liposomes prepared by ethanol injection method have a certain stability in two weeks of storage. In this study, THP-1 macrophages treated with C3G and C3G liposomes can reduce the levels of inflammatory-related factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-8, stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Further studies showed that the LPS induction could increase the level of phosphorylated nuclear transcription factor NF-κB and phosphorylated IkBa, while C3G and C3G liposomes could inhibit the expression of phosphorylated proteins. Moreover, C3G and C3G liposomes could protect macrophages from apoptosis. In conclusion, C3G prepared by liposome technology exhibits anti-inflammatory activity, which provides a theoretical basis for the food industry to study functional food.

NADPH Oxidase and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Are Promising Targets of Phytochemicals for Ultraviolet-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis

The skin acts as the primary defense organ that protects the body from the external environment. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Skin carcinogenesis is usually caused by cell degeneration due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which causes changes in various signaling networks, disrupting the homeostasis of single skin cells. In this review, we summarize the roles of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in UV-induced skin carcinogenesis. Furthermore, we describe the crosstalk that exists between NOX, EGFR, and protein tyrosine phosphatase κ and its oncogenic downstream signaling pathways. Chemoprevention is the use of chemical compounds to recover the healthy status of the skin or delay cancer development. Current evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies on chemopreventive phytochemicals that target NOX, EGFR, or both, as major regulators of skin carcinogenesis will also be discussed.

An Insight into Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Inflammation Related Diseases of Anthocyanins: A Review of Both In Vivo and In Vitro Investigations

Anthocyanin is a type of flavonoid pigment widely present in fruits and vegetables. It can not only be used as natural pigment, but also has a variety of health functions, for instance, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and neuroprotective activities. Persistent proinflammatory status is a major factor in the development, progression, and complications of chronic diseases. Not surprisingly, there are thus many food ingredients that can potentially affect inflammation related diseases and many studies have shown that anthocyanins play an important role in inflammatory pathways. In this paper, the inflammation related diseases (such as, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer) of anthocyanins are introduced, and the anti-inflammatory effect of anthocyanins is emphatically introduced. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of anthocyanins is elaborated from the aspects of NF-κB, toll like receptor, MAPKs, NO, and ROS and the main efficacy of anthocyanins in inflammation and related diseases is determined. In conclusion, this review aims to get a clear insight into the role of anthocyanins in inflammation related diseases.

Protective effects of GLHP from Gracilaria lemaneiformis against UVB-induced photodamage in human immortalized keratinocytes cells and BALB/c mice

Our previous study showed that the water-soluble heteropolysaccharide extracted from Gracilaria lemaneiformis (GLHP) has excellent anti-inflammation and anti-oxidant properties. This study explored the efficacy of GLHP against skin anti-photoaging in human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells and BALB/c mice under UVB irradiation. Cell viability, antiapoptotic, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell wound scratch assays were conducted, as well as assessment of inflammation markers and sun protection factors. The in vitro results showed that GLHP pretreatment significantly inhibited UVB-induced apoptosis, reversed the decrease of cell viability via downregulating the expression of apoptosis-related protein caspase-3, accelerated the migration of HaCaT cells, and promoted wound healing. Notably, the protective effect of GLHP may be associated with the scavenging of ROS and the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, GLHP pretreatment significantly restrained the upregulation of iNOS (UVB-induced inflammation marker), suppressed the expression of P-ERK and NF-κB, and decreased the activity of MMPs, suggesting that it exerts the therapeutic effects by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signal pathway. Results obtained after conducting the in vivo assay confirmed that GLHP could reverse the UVB-induced increase of epidermal thickness in BALB/c mice. In conclusion, this study shows that GLHP can be utilized as a safer resource in the manufacture of anti-aging cosmetics because it exerts excellent anti-photoaging effects.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and its phenolic metabolites ameliorate intestinal diseases via modulating intestinal mucosal immune system: potential mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

The incidence of the intestinal disease is globally increasing, and the intestinal mucosa immune system is an important defense line. A potential environmental cause to regulate gut health is diet. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside is a natural plant bioactive substance that has shown rising evidence of improving intestinal disease and keeping gut homeostasis. This review summarized the intestinal protective effect of Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside in vivo and in vitro and discussed the potential mechanisms by regulating the intestinal mucosal immune system. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and phenolic metabolites inhibited the presence and progression of intestinal diseases and explained from the aspects of repairing the intestinal wall, inhibiting inflammatory reaction, and regulating the gut microbiota. Although the animal and clinical studies are inadequate, based on the accumulated evidence, we propose that the interaction of Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside with the intestinal mucosal immune system is at the core of most mechanisms by which affect host gut diseases. This review puts forward the potential mechanism of action and targeted treatment strategies.

Could Polyphenols Really Be a Good Radioprotective Strategy?

Currently, radiotherapy is one of the most effective strategies to treat cancer. However, deleterious toxicity against normal cells indicate for the need to selectively protect them. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species reinforce ionizing radiation cytotoxicity, and compounds able to scavenge these species or enhance antioxidant enzymes (e.g., superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) should be properly investigated. Antioxidant plant-derived compounds, such as phenols and polyphenols, could represent a valuable alternative to synthetic compounds to be used as radio-protective agents. In fact, their dose-dependent antioxidant/pro-oxidant efficacy could provide a high degree of protection to normal tissues, with little or no protection to tumor cells. The present review provides an update of the current scientific knowledge of polyphenols in pure forms or in plant extracts with good evidence concerning their possible radiomodulating action. Indeed, with few exceptions, to date, the fragmentary data available mostly derive from in vitro studies, which do not find comfort in preclinical and/or clinical studies. On the contrary, when preclinical studies are reported, especially regarding the bioactivity of a plant extract, its chemical composition is not taken into account, avoiding any standardization and compromising data reproducibility.

Comparative Analysis of Histone H3K4me3 Distribution in Mouse Liver in Different Diets Reveals the Epigenetic Efficacy of Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside Dietary Intake

BACKGROUND

Different diets result in significantly different phenotypes through metabolic and genomic reprogramming. Epigenetic marks, identified in humans and mouse models through caloric restriction, a high-fat diet or the intake of specific bioactives, suggest that genomic reprogramming drives this metabolic reprogramming and mediates the effect of nutrition on health. Histone modifications encode the epigenetic signal, which adapts genome functions to environmental conditions, including diets, by tuning the structure and properties of chromatin. To date, the effect of different diets on the genome-wide distribution of critical histone marks has not been determined.

METHODS

Using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing, we investigated the distribution of the trimethylation of lysine 4 of histone H3 in the liver of mice fed for one year with five different diets, including: chow containing yellow corn powder as an extra source of plant bioactives or specifically enriched with cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside, high-fat-enriched obesogenic diets, and caloric-restricted pro-longevity diets.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparison of the resulting histone mark profiles revealed that functional food containing cyanidin determines a broad effect.

Platelet-rich plasma protects human melanocytes from oxidative stress and ameliorates melanogenesis induced by UVB irradiation

To investigate the role of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from different sources in alleviating oxidative stress and ameliorating melanogenesis in UVB-irradiated PIG1 cells, PIG1 cells were irradiated with 80 mJ/cm2 UVB prior to 1% PRP application and the following experiments were taken: the viability of UVB-irradiated PIG1 cells, cellular malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Western blotting was utilized to detect the expression level of proteins associated with melanin synthesis, apoptosis, and DNA lesions. We found that PRP intervention promoted cell proliferation, reduced MDA and ROS content, increased the activities of series of antioxidant enzymes, and alleviated DNA damages in UVB-damaged PIG1 cells. It is important to note that PRP treatment inhibited UVB-induced melanogenesis via the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signal pathway. Therefore, we suppose PRP treatment exerts a protective role through their antioxidation effect on UVB-damaged PIG1 cells and hinders melanogenesis induced by UVB irradiation.

Hydroethanolic Extracts of the Aristotelia Chilensis (Maqui) Berry Reduces Cellular Viability and Invasiveness in the Endometrial Cancer Cell Line Ishikawa

Cancer of the reproductive tract includes diseases with higher prevalence in the female population. This investigation examined whether an anthocyanin-enriched extract of Aristotelia chilensis, commonly known as "maqui," could affect some hallmarks of endometrial cancer. Cultures of the human endometrial cancer cell line Ishikawa were treated with a hydroethanolic maqui extract at 1, 3, 10, 30, 100, 300, or 1000 µg/mL to determine the effect on cell viability by MTT assay. Then, we used the 50% Effective Concentration (EC50) to evaluate whether the effect of the maqui extract is mediated via an arrest of the cell cycle or induction of apoptosis using flow cytometry or Annexin V-FITC assays, respectively. The effects of sublethal doses of the maqui extract on migration and invasiveness of Ishikawa cells were also evaluated by the wound healing and Boyden Chamber assay, respectively. Our results show that the hydroethanolic maqui extract inhibits the cell viability with an EC50 of 472.3 µg/mL via increased apoptosis, and that reduces the invasive capacity but not migration of Ishikawa cells. These findings suggest that the hydroethanolic maqui extract has antineoplastic properties for endometrial cancer and merits further studies to corroborate its efficiency as anticancer therapy in reproductive organs.

Cyanidin 3-glucoside modulated cell cycle progression in liver precancerous lesion, in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (cyan) exhibits antioxidant and anticancer properties. The cell cycle proteins and antimitotic drugs might be promising therapeutic targets in hepatocellular carcinoma.

AIM

To investigate the effect of cyan administration on cell cycle in hepatic precancerous lesion (PCL) induced by diethylnitrosamine/2-acetylaminofluorene (DEN/2-AAF) in Wistar rats.

METHODS

In vivo, DEN/2-AAF-induced hepatic PCL, rats were treated with three doses of cyan (10, 15, and 20 mg/kg/d, for four consecutive days per week for 16 wk). Blood and liver tissue samples were collected for measurement of the followings; alpha fetoprotein (AFP) liver function and RNA panel differential expression was evaluated via real time polymerase chain reaction. Histopathological examination of liver sections stained with H&E and immunohistochemical study using glutathione S-transferase placental (GSTP) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) antibodies were assessed.

RESULTS

Cyan administration mitigated the effect of DEN/2-AFF induced PCL, decreased AFP levels, and improved liver function. Remarkably, treatment with cyan dose dependently decreased the long non-coding RNA MALAT1 and tubulin gamma 1 mRNA expressions and increased the levels of miR-125b, all of which are involved in cell cycle and mitotic spindle assembly. Of note, cyan decreased GSTP foci percent area and PCNA positively stained nuclei.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that cyan could be used as a potential therapeutic agent to inhibit liver carcinogenesis in rat model via modulation of cell cycle.

Counteracting the Ramifications of UVB Irradiation and Photoaging with Swietenia macrophylla King Seed

In this day and age, the expectation of cosmetic products to effectively slow down skin photoaging is constantly increasing. However, the detrimental effects of UVB on the skin are not easy to tackle as UVB dysregulates a wide range of molecular changes on the cellular level. In our research, irradiated keratinocyte cells not only experienced a compromise in their redox system, but processes from RNA translation to protein synthesis and folding were also affected. Aside from this, proteins involved in various other processes like DNA repair and maintenance, glycolysis, cell growth, proliferation, and migration were affected while the cells approached imminent cell death. Additionally, the collagen degradation pathway was also activated by UVB irradiation through the upregulation of inflammatory and collagen degrading markers. Nevertheless, with the treatment of Swietenia macrophylla (S. macrophylla) seed extract and fractions, the dysregulation of many genes and proteins by UVB was reversed. The reversal effects were particularly promising with the S. macrophylla hexane fraction (SMHF) and S. macrophylla ethyl acetate fraction (SMEAF). SMHF was able to oppose the detrimental effects of UVB in several different processes such as the redox system, DNA repair and maintenance, RNA transcription to translation, protein maintenance and synthesis, cell growth, migration and proliferation, and cell glycolysis, while SMEAF successfully suppressed markers related to skin inflammation, collagen degradation, and cell apoptosis. Thus, in summary, our research not only provided a deeper insight into the molecular changes within irradiated keratinocytes, but also serves as a model platform for future cosmetic research to build upon. Subsequently, both SMHF and SMEAF also displayed potential photoprotective properties that warrant further fractionation and in vivo clinical trials to investigate and obtain potential novel bioactive compounds against photoaging.

PARP-1 involves in UVB-induced inflammatory response in keratinocytes and skin injury via regulation of ROS-dependent EGFR transactivation and p38 signaling

UV irradiation can injure the epidermis, resulting in sunburn, inflammation, and cutaneous tissue disorders. Previous studies demonstrate that EGFR in keratinocytes can be activated by UVB and contributes to inflammation. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is a nuclear enzyme and plays an essential role in DNA repair under moderate stress. In this study, we set out to understand how PARP-1 regulates UVB irradiation-induced skin injury and interplays with EGFR to mediate the inflammation response. We found that PARP-1 deficiency exacerbated the UVB-induced inflammation, water loss, and back skin damage in mice. In human primary keratinocytes, UVB can activate PARP-1 and enhance DNA damage upon PARP-1 gene silencing. Moreover, PARP-1 silencing and PARP inhibitor olaparib can suppress UVB-induced COX-2 and MMP-1 expression, but enhance TNF-α and IL-8 expression. In addition, EGFR silencing or EGFR inhibition by gefitinib can decrease UVB-induced COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-8 expression, suggesting EGFR activation via paracrine action can mediate UVB-induced inflammation responses. Immunoblotting data revealed that PARP-1 inhibition decreases UVB-induced EGFR and p38 activation. Pharmacological inhibition of p38 also dramatically led to the attenuation of UVB-induced inflammatory gene expression. Of note, genetic ablation of PARP-1 or EGFR can attenuate UVB-induced ROS production, and antioxidant NAC can attenuate UVB-induced EGFR-p38 signaling axis and PARP-1 activation. These data suggest the regulatory loops among EGFR, PARP-1, and ROS upon UVB stress. PARP-1 not only serves DNA repair function but also orchestrates interactions to EGFR transactivation and ROS production, leading to p38 signaling for inflammatory gene expression in keratinocytes.

2-acetylphenothiazine protects L929 fibroblasts against UVB-induced oxidative damage

Ultraviolet B (UVB) light corresponds to 5% of ultraviolet radiation. It is more genotoxic and mutagenic than UVA and causes direct and indirect cellular damage through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Even after radiation, ROS generation may continue through activation of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) enzyme. Long-term exposure can progress to premature skin aging and photocarcinogenesis. To prevent damage that is caused by UVB radiation, several studies have focused on the topical administration of compounds that have antioxidant properties. 2-Acetylphenothiazine (ML171) is a potent and selective inhibitor of NOX1. The present study investigated the antioxidant potential and photoprotective ability of ML171 in UVB-irradiated L929 fibroblasts. ML171 had considerable antioxidant activity in both the DPPH^• and xanthine/luminol/xanthine oxidase assays. ML171 did not induce cytotoxicity in L929 fibroblasts and increased the viability of UVB-irradiated cells. ML171 also inhibited ROS production, the enzymatic activity of NOX, depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, and DNA damage. Additionally, ML171 protected cell membrane integrity and induced fibroblast migration. These results suggest that the incorporation of ML171 in topical administration systems may be a promising strategy to mitigate UVB-induced oxidative damage in L929 fibroblasts.

Persimmon oligomeric proanthocyanidins alleviate ultraviolet B-induced skin damage by regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses

Skin damage can be induced by excessive ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective activity of persimmon oligo-proanthocyanidins (P-OPC) against UV-B induced human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT cells) and skin damage and its underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. P-OPC was shown to inhibit the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by UVB radiation in both HaCaT cells and mouse skin tissues by increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzyme system [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione (GSH)]. Furthermore, P-OPC was found to suppress cell apoptosis and the production of inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, and IL-6. Overall, P-OPC could protect skin tissues from UV-B-induced damage by suppressing oxidant stress, acute inflammation, and cell apoptosis via regulating MAPK and NF-κB signalling pathways. These results indicate the potential of P-OPC as a photochemo-protective agent against UV-B induced skin damage.

Current developments in the nanomediated delivery of photoprotective phytochemicals

Natural products have been used to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation for decades. Due to the ecotoxicological implications of synthetic sunscreen exposure in aquatic ecosystems, there is a greater need to explore alternative sources of UV filters. Recent research has focused on discovering novel UV absorbing photoprotective molecules from nature. In response to the excessive damage caused by UVB rays, plants induce the production of high concentrations of phytoprotective secondary metabolites and anti-oxidative enzymes. Despite promising UV absorbing and photoprotective properties, plant secondary metabolites have been underutilized in topical delivery due to low solubility and high instability. Numerous phytochemicals have been effectively nanosized, incorporated in formulations, and studied for their sustained effects in photoprotection. The present review outlines recent developments in nanosizing and delivering photoprotective crude plant extract and phytochemicals from a phytochemical perspective. We searched for articles using keywords: "UV damage," "skin photoprotection," "photodamage," and "nano delivery" in varied combinations. We identified and reviewed literature from 43 original research articles exploring nanosized phytochemicals and crude plant extracts with photoprotective activity. Nanosized phytochemicals retained higher amounts of bioactive compounds in the skin and acted as depots for their sustained release. Novel approaches in nanosizing considerably improved the photostability, efficacy, and water resistance of plant secondary metabolites. We further discuss the need for broad-spectrum sunscreen products, potential challenges, and future growth in this area.

Exploring the Applications of the Photoprotective Properties of Anthocyanins in Biological Systems

Due to their physical and chemical characteristics, anthocyanins are amongst the most versatile groups of natural compounds. Such unique signature makes these compounds a focus in several different areas of research. Anthocyanins have well been reported as bioactive compounds in a myriad of health disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and obesity, among others, due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, and anti-proliferative capacities. Such a vast number of action mechanisms may be also due to the number of structurally different anthocyanins plus their related derivatives. In this review, we highlight the recent advances on the potential use of anthocyanins in biological systems with particular focus on their photoprotective properties. Topics such as skin aging and eye degenerative diseases, highly influenced by light, and the action of anthocyanins against such damages will be discussed. Photodynamic Therapy and the potential role of anthocyanins as novel photosensitizers will be also a central theme of this review.

Anthocyanins, Vibrant Color Pigments, and Their Role in Skin Cancer Prevention

Until today, numerous studies evaluated the topic of anthocyanins and various types of cancer, regarding the anthocyanins' preventative and inhibitory effects, underlying molecular mechanisms, and such. However, there is no targeted review available regarding the anticarcinogenic effects of dietary anthocyanins on skin cancers. If diagnosed at the early stages, the survival rate of skin cancer is quite high. Nevertheless, the metastatic form has a short prognosis. In fact, the incidence of melanoma skin cancer, the type with high mortality, has increased exponentially over the last 30 years, causing the majority of skin cancer deaths. Malignant melanoma is considered a highly destructive type of skin cancer due to its particular capacity to grow and spread faster than any other type of cancers. Plants, in general, have been used in disease treatment for a long time, and medicinal plants are commonly a part of anticancer drugs on the market. Accordingly, this work primarily aims to emphasize the most recent improvements on the anticarcinogenic effects of anthocyanins from different plant sources, with an in-depth emphasis on melanoma skin cancer. We also briefly summarized the anthocyanin chemistry, their rich dietary sources in flowers, fruits, and vegetables, as well as their associated potential health benefits. Additionally, the importance of anthocyanins in topical applications such as their use in cosmetics is also given.

Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside-Rich Haskap Berry Administration Suppresses Carcinogen-Induced Lung Tumorigenesis in A/JCr Mice

In our previous study, we demonstrated that cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G)-rich haskap (Lonicera caerulea L.) berry extracts can attenuate the carcinogen-induced DNA damage in normal lung epithelial cells in vitro. Here, the efficacy of lyophilized powder of whole haskap berry (C3G-HB) in lowering tobacco-specific nitrosamine, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone, (NNK)-induced lung tumorigenesis in A/JCr mice was investigated. Three weeks after daily oral administration of C3G-HB (6 mg of C3G in 0.2 g of C3G-HB/mouse/day), lung tumors were initiated by a single intraperitoneal injection of NNK. Dietary C3G-HB supplementation was continued, and 22 weeks later, mice were euthanized. Lung tumors were visualized through positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 19 weeks after NNK injection. Dietary supplementation of C3G-HB significantly reduced the NNK-induced lung tumor multiplicity and tumor area but did not affect tumor incidence. Immunohistochemical analysis showed reduced expression of proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 in lung tissues. Therefore, C3G-HB has the potential to reduce the lung tumorigenesis, and to be used as a source for developing dietary supplements or nutraceuticals for reducing the risk of lung cancer among high-risk populations.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis Galectin-1 interacts with Annexin A2 to impair the viability of macrophages via activating JNK pathway

BACKGROUND

Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause severe symptoms of central nervous system infections. In the host, this parasite localizes in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid, and its secreted components can impact immune responses. Our previous study demonstrated that immune responses were inhibited in A. cantonensis-infected mice immunized with Ac-Galectin-1 (AcGal-1). However, the mechanisms by which AcGal-1 regulates the immune responses remain unclear. Macrophages are innate immune cells that rapidly respond to infection. The direct impact of AcGal-1 on macrophages may affect the immune responses.

METHODS

AcGal-1 protein was purified by nickel ion affinity chromatography. The effect of AcGal-1 on the apoptosis of macrophages was detected using CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry and western blot. Macrophage membrane proteins bound to AcGal-1 were obtained using the His-tag-based pull-down assay and identified via mass spectrometry. Co-localization of AcGal-1 and the macrophage membrane protein Annexin A2 was observed by immunofluorescence microscopy, and their interaction was validated by co-immunoprecipitation experiments. SiRNA-mediated knockdown of Annexin A2 was used to determine if AcGal-1-induced macrophage apoptosis required interaction with Annexin A2. The phosphorylation level of apoptotic signal pathway protein was detected by phospho-antibody microarray and western blot.

RESULTS

Our study showed that AcGal-1 caused apoptosis of the macrophages. AcGal-1 increased the expression of apoptosis proteins caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, but reduced the expression of anti-apoptosis protein Bcl-2. AcGal-1 interacted with the membrane protein Annexin A2, and knockdown of Annexin A2 expression increased Bcl-2 but decreased Bax levels in AcGal-1-treated cells. Moreover, AcGal-1 increased JNK phosphorylation and the inhibition of JNK phosphorylation in AcGal-1-treated cells decreased the expression of caspase-3, -9, Bax and almost restored Bcl-2 to the level observed in control cells.

CONCLUSIONS

AcGal-1 can induce the apoptosis of macrophages by binding to Annexin A2 and activating JNK downstream the apoptotic signaling pathway.

Ultraviolet A protective potential of plant extracts and phytochemicals

Chronic exposure to solar radiation is related to an increased incidence of various skin disorders, including premature skin aging and melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Ultraviolet (UV) photons in particular are responsible for skin damage. Solar UV photons mainly belong to UVA wavebands, however UVA radiation has been mostly ignored for a long time. At the cellular level, UVA photons mainly provoke indirect oxidative damage to biomolecules via the massive generation of unstable and highly reactive compounds. Human skin has several effective mechanisms that forestall, repair and eliminate damage caused by solar radiation. Regardless, some damage persists and can accumulate with chronic exposure. Therefore, conscious protection against solar radiation (UVB+UVA) is necessary. Besides traditional types of photoprotection such as sunscreen use, new strategies are being searched for and developed. One very popular protective strategy is the application of phytochemicals as active ingredients of photoprotection preparations instead of synthetic chemicals. Phytochemicals usually possess additional biological activities besides absorbing the energy of photons, and those properties (e.g. antioxidant, anti-inflammatory) magnify the protective potential of phytochemicals and extracts. Therefore, compounds of natural origin are in the interest of researchers as well as developers. In this review, only studies on UVA protection with well-documented experimental conditions are summarized. This article includes 17 well standardized plant extracts (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, Silybum marianum L. Gaertn., Punica granatum L., Polypodium aureum L., Vaccinium myrtillus L., Lonicera caerulea L., Thymus vulgaris L., Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., Morinda citrifolia L., Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., Oenothera paradoxa Hudziok, Galinsoga parviflora Cav., Galinsoga quadriradiata Ruiz et Pavón, Hippophae rhamnoides L., Cola acuminata Schott & Endl., Theobroma cacao L. and Amaranthus cruentus L.) and 26 phytochemicals.

Improvement of Testicular Steroidogenesis Using Flavonoids and Isoflavonoids for Prevention of Late-Onset Male Hypogonadism

Androgen production, being important for male fertility, is mainly accomplished by the Leydig cells from the interstitial compartment of the testis. Testosterone plays a critical role in testis development, normal masculinization, and the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Within seminiferous tubules, appropriate Sertoli cell function is highly dependent on testicular androgen levels and is essential to initiate and maintain spermatogenesis. During aging, testosterone production by the testicular Leydig cells declines from the 30s in humans at a rate of 1% per year. This review outlines the recent findings regarding the use of flavonoids and isoflavonoids to improve testosterone production, contributing to normal spermatogenesis and preventing age-related degenerative diseases associated with testosterone deficiency. With the cumulation of information on the actions of different flavonoids and isoflavonoids on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells, we can now draw conclusions regarding the structure-activity relationship on androgen production. Indeed, flavonoids having a 5,7-dihydroxychromen-4-one backbone tend to increase the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), being critical for the entry of cholesterol into the mitochondria, leading to increased testosterone production from testis Leydig cells. Therefore, flavonoids and isoflavonoids such as chrysin, apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and daidzein may be effective in delaying the initiation of late-onset hypogonadism associated with aging in males.

Anthocyanins from black peanut skin protect against UV-B induced keratinocyte cell and skin oxidative damage through activating Nrf 2 signaling

Excessive Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation induces skin damage. In the present study, the potential protective activity of anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside and cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside) from black peanut against skin damage induced by UV-B was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with anthocyanins significantly reversed UV-B induced oxidative damage and following apoptotic death in human HaCaT cells. Nuclear-factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf 2) was activated by anthocyanins through Nrf 2 protein stabilization and nuclear translocation, along with the expressions of antioxidant responsive element (ARE)- related genes (HO1, GCLC and NOQ1). Nrf 2 knockdown in HaCaT cells by targeted-shRNA plasmid markedly abolished the protective activity of anthocyanins against UV-B irradiation. Additionally, topical application of anthocyanins (5 mg cm-2) inhibited UV-B induced oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in BALB/c mouse skin tissues. The protective effect of anthocyanins can be explained by the regulation of oxidative-stress and the suppression of cell apoptosis through the activation of Nrf-2 by interaction with the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Our results suggested that anthocyanins from black peanut skin might be used as a potential photochemo-protective agent against UV-B induced skin damage.

Cyanidin-3-o-glucoside inhibits UVA-induced human dermal fibroblast injury by upregulating autophagy

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Ultraviolet (UV) A (315-400 nm) is the UV light that most frequently reaches the Earth's surface and can penetrate the epidermis through to the dermis, causing various issues, including skin aging and skin cancer. The results of our previous studies have shown that the flavonoid monomer cyanidin-3-o-glucoside (C3G) can effectively inhibit primary human dermal fibroblast (HDF) oxidative damage and apoptosis caused by UVA radiation. Many flavonoids can regulate the level of autophagy. However, whether C3G inhibits UVA-induced oxidative damage to primary HDFs by regulating autophagy levels remains unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, we used different doses (0-12 J/cm² ) of UVA to irradiate cells and showed that the expression levels of autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg5) and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)-II in primary HDFs first increased and then decreased. The expression of Atg5 and LC3-II was significantly decreased under 12 J/cm² (light-damage model). C3G increased the levels of Atg5 and LC3-II. Primary HDFs were pretreated with C3G, followed by treatment with the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) after 12 J/cm² UVA irradiation. The inhibitory effects of C3G on morphological changes, oxidative damage, and apoptosis in primary HDFs induced by UVA were significantly decreased.

CONCLUSION

C3G can inhibit UVA-induced damage to primary HDFs by inducing autophagy. These results provide a theoretical basis for the application of natural compounds to resist light damage to the skin in the future.

Consumption of 100% Tart Cherry Juice Reduces Serum Urate in Overweight and Obese Adults

BACKGROUND

Gout is a frequently occurring, complex rheumatologic form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of serum uric acid (sUA) and deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints and tissues of the body. Hyperuricemia is also a significant independent risk factor for all-cause and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and is associated with hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and osteoarthritis. However, patient adherence to prescribed urate-lowering therapies ranges from 20% to 70%, suggesting that other additional strategies, such as dietary intervention with specific, efficacious foods or beverages, may be necessary to mitigate the risk of arthritis, as well as other comorbidities. Tart cherry juice (TCJ) has been used for decades by some for gout based largely on anecdotal evidence of its efficacy and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVES

We designed this study to test the effect of TCJ on uricemia, lipidemia, glycemia, and inflammation in at-risk overweight and obese humans with a specific hypothesis that TCJ consumption would reduce sUA concentrations.

METHODS

In this randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study, we recruited overweight and obese participants with body mass index (BMI) >25.0 kg/m2 (n = 26, 18 women/8 men, 41 ±11 y; BMI 31.3 ± 6.0; 12 obese, 14 overweight) to consume 240 mL/d (8 oz/d) of either TCJ or placebo beverage, for 4 wk each with a 4-wk intervening washout period followed by 4 wk of the alternate beverage.

RESULTS

TCJ significantly reduced sUA concentration by 19.2% (P < 0.05) and reduced by 19.4% (P = 0.09) and 6.3% (P = 0.08) proinflammatory high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, respectively. The participants in this study displayed risk ratios indicating increased cardiovascular disease risk and insulin resistance but no differences in the pre- and postintervention groups of either placebo or TCJ groups.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the data suggest that 100% TCJ reduces sUA concentrations, mitigating hyperuricemia associated with gouty arthritis. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03636529.

Oxidative Transformation of Leucocyanidin by Anthocyanidin Synthase from Vitis vinifera Leads Only to Quercetin

Anthocyanidin synthase from Vitis vinifera ( VvANS) catalyzes the in vitro transformation of the natural isomer of leucocyanidin, 2 R,3 S,4 S- cis-leucocyanidin, into 2 R,4 S-flavan-3,3,4-triol ([M + H]⁺, m/ z 323) and quercetin. The C₃-hydroxylation product 2 R,4 S-flavan-3,3,4-triol is first produced and its C₃,C₄-dehydration product is in tautomeric equilibrium with (+)-dihydroquercetin. The latter undergoes a second VvANS-catalyzed C₃-hydroxylation leading to a 4-keto-2 R-flavan-3,3-gem-diol which upon dehydration gives quercetin. The unnatural isomer of leucocyanidin, 2 R,3 S,4 R- trans-leucocyanidin, is similarly transformed into quercetin upon C₃,C₄-dehydration, but unlike 3,4- cis-leucocyanidin, it also undergoes some C₂,C₃-dehydration followed by an acid-catalyzed hydroxyl group extrusion at C₄ to give traces of cyanidin. Overall, the C₃,C₄- trans isomer of leucocyanidin is transformed into 2 R,4 R-flavan-3,3,4-triol (M + 1, m/ z 323), (+)-DHQ, (-)-epiDHQ, quercetin, and traces of cyanidin. Our data bring the first direct observation of 3,4- cis-leucocyanidin- and 3,4- trans-leucocyanidin-derived 3,3-gem-diols, supporting the idea that the generic function of ANS is to catalyze the C₃-hydroxylation of its substrates. No cyanidin is produced with the natural cis isomer of leucocyanidin, and only traces with the unnatural trans isomer, which suggests that anthocyanidin synthase requires other substrate(s) for the in vivo formation of anthocyanidins.

Revealing mechanisms of salinity tissue tolerance in succulent halophytes: A case study for Carpobrotus rossi

Efforts to breed salt tolerant crops could benefit from investigating previously unexplored traits. One of them is a tissue succulency. In this work, we have undertaken an electrophysiological and biochemical comparison of properties of mesophyll and storage parenchyma leaf tissues of a succulent halophyte species Carpobrotus rosii ("pigface"). We show that storage parenchyma cells of C. rossii act as Na⁺ sink and possessed both higher Na⁺ sequestration (298 vs. 215 mM NaCl in mesophyll) and better K⁺ retention ability. The latter traits was determined by the higher rate of H⁺ -ATPase operation and higher nonenzymatic antioxidant activity in this tissue. Na⁺ uptake in both tissues was insensitive to either Gd³⁺ or elevated Ca²⁺ ruling out involvement of nonselective cation channels as a major path for Na⁺ entry. Patch-clamp experiments have revealed that Caprobrotus plants were capable to downregulate activity of fast vacuolar channels when exposed to saline environment; this ability was higher in the storage parenchyma cells compared with mesophyll. Also, storage parenchyma cells have constitutively lower number of open slow vacuolar channels, whereas in mesophyll, this suppression was inducible by salt. Taken together, these results provide a mechanistic basis for efficient Na⁺ sequestration in the succulent leaf tissues.

Nanoencapsulation of Cyanidin-3- O-glucoside Enhances Protection Against UVB-Induced Epidermal Damage through Regulation of p53-Mediated Apoptosis in Mice

Excess ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes numerous forms of skin damage. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare the photoprotective effects of cyanidin-3- O-glucoside (C3G) alone and encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (Nano-C3G) in a UVB-induced acute photodamage mouse model. Nano-C3G was developed from chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) by ionic gelation. The particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro release in 6 days were determined. Kunming (KM) mice were treated with Nano-C3G (125, 250, 500 μM) or C3G (500 μM) after part of the dorsal skin area was dehaired and then exposed to 2 J/cm² of UVB. The nanocapsules were successfully produced and had a uniform and complete spherical shape without agglomeration. The size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading of Nano-C3G was 288 nm, +30 mV, 44.90%, and 4.30%, respectively. C3G in the nanocapsules was released quite rapidly, and the release rate slowed down at higher pH. The animal experiment demonstrated that Nano-C3G could effectively reduce the UVB-induced lipid peroxidation, malondialdehyde, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine contents; downregulate p53, Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), and caspase-3 and -9 expression; and balance the B-cell lymphoma-2/leukemia-2 ratio. Moreover, Nano-C3G (125, 250, 500 μM) improved the visual appearance, skin moisture, histologic appearance, and apoptotic index (based on TUNEL staining) under UVB exposure. In conclusion, these results suggest that Nano-C3G can reduce UVB-induced epidermal damage through the p53-mediated apoptosis signaling pathway. Moreover, Nano-C3G was more efficient than C3G at the same concentration (500 μM).

Functional Anthocyanin-Rich Sausages Diminish Colorectal Cancer in an Animal Model and Reduce Pro-Inflammatory Bacteria in the Intestinal Microbiota

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common neoplasia in Europe, where it accounts for 28.2 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In an effort to decrease the incidence of this disease, various prevention measures are being studied, one of which are anthocyanin-rich foods. Anthocyanins are potent antioxidant flavonoids mainly found in flowers and colorful fruits and vegetables. These nutraceuticals have diverse biological functions once ingested, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antitumor functions. In order to test the preventive effect of these flavonoids against colorectal cancer, an animal model (Rattus norvegicus F344) was developed. In this model two doses of azoxymethane (10 mg/kg) and two treatments with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) were administered to the animals. For 20 weeks they were fed either control rat feed, control sausages, or functional sausages containing 0.1% (w/w) of anthocyanins from a mixture of dehydrated blackberries and strawberries. At the end of that period, the animals were sacrificed and their antioxidant plasma levels and digestive tract tissues were analyzed. The results revealed a statistically significant reduction in the number of colon tumors in the functional sausages cohort with respect to the control animals and an increase in the FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) total antioxidant activity in that same cohort. Colon microbiota differences were also examined via metagenomics 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing, revealing a significant reduction in populations of the pro-inflammatory Bilophila wadsworthia. Therefore, the design of functional processed meat products, such as ones enriched with anthocyanins, may be an effective strategy for preventing inflammatory digestive diseases and colorectal cancer in human populations.