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Pashmforosh M, Rajabi Vardanjani H, Khorsandi L, Shariati S, Mohtadi S, Khodayar MJ. Carvacrol protects rats against bleomycin-induced lung oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03273-7. [PMID: 38976045 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03273-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to investigate the potential efficacy of carvacrol (CAR) in mitigating bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Sixty-six male Wistar rats were assigned into two main groups of 7 and 21 days. They were divided into the subgroups of control, BLM, CAR 80 (only for the 21-day group), and CAR treatment groups. The CAR treatment groups received CAR (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg, orally) for 7 or 21 days after an instillation of BLM (5 mg/kg, intratracheally). Results indicated that BLM significantly increased total cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and the percentages of neutrophils and lymphocytes, and reduced the percentage of macrophages. CAR dose-dependently decreased total cell count and the percentage of neutrophils and lymphocytes. CAR significantly reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroxyproline levels and elevated the total thiol level and catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in BLM-exposed rats. Furthermore, CAR decreased the transforming growth factor-β1, connective transforming growth factor, and tumor necrosis factor-α on days 7 and 21. BLM increased interferon-γ on day 7 but decreased its level on day 21. However, CAR reversed interferon-γ levels on days 7 and 21. Based on histopathological findings, BLM induced inflammation on days 7 and 21, but for induction of fibrosis, 21-day study showed more fibrotic injuries than the 7-day group. CAR showed the improvement of fibrotic injuries. The effect of CAR against BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis is possibly due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hossein Rajabi Vardanjani
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Layasadat Khorsandi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Shariati
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Shokooh Mohtadi
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Khodayar
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
- Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Deng J, Wei RQ, Zhang WM, Shi CY, Yang R, Jin M, Piao C. Crocin's role in modulating MMP2/TIMP1 and mitigating hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12716. [PMID: 38830933 PMCID: PMC11148111 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62900-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To explore the molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and identify potential therapeutic targets, we performed transcriptome sequencing of lung tissue from mice with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. Our Gene Ontology analysis revealed that "extracellular matrix organization" ranked high in the biological process category, and matrix metallopeptidases (MMPs) and other proteases also played important roles in it. Moreover, compared with those in the normoxia group, we confirmed that MMPs expression was upregulated in the hypoxia group, while the hub gene Timp1 was downregulated. Crocin, a natural MMP inhibitor, was found to reduce inflammation, decrease MMPs levels, increase Timp1 expression levels, and attenuate hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. In addition, analysis of the cell distribution of MMPs and Timp1 in the human lung cell atlas using single-cell RNAseq datasets revealed that MMPs and Timp1 are mainly expressed in a population of fibroblasts. Moreover, in vitro experiments revealed that crocin significantly inhibited myofibroblast proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix deposition. Furthermore, we demonstrated that crocin inhibited TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation and regulated the pulmonary arterial fibroblast MMP2/TIMP1 balance by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway. In summary, our results indicate that crocin attenuates hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice by inhibiting TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133000, China
| | - Rui-Qi Wei
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Wen-Mei Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Chang-Yu Shi
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ming Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133000, China.
| | - Chunmei Piao
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China.
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Pourmousavi L, Asadi RH, Zehsaz F, Jadidi RP. Potential therapeutic effects of crocin. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6. [PMID: 38758225 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Crocin, a natural bioactive compound derived from saffron (Crocus sativus) and other Crocus genera, has gained significant attention recently due to its potential therapeutic properties. The multifaceted nature of crocin's biological effects has piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts, prompting further investigations into its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. This review article comprehensively explores the emerging evidence supporting crocin's role as a promising ally in protecting against metabolic disorders. The review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying crocin's beneficial effects and highlights its potential applications in preventing and treating diverse pathological conditions. Understanding the mechanisms through which crocin exerts its protective effects could advance scientific knowledge and offer potential avenues for developing novel therapeutic interventions. As we uncover the potential of crocin as a valuable ally in the fight against disorders, it becomes evident that nature's palette holds remarkable solutions for enhancing our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Pourmousavi
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Zehsaz
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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Abd Elrazik NA, Helmy SA. Betanin protects against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by regulating the NLRP3/IL-1β/TGF-β1 pathway-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Food Funct 2024; 15:284-294. [PMID: 38083874 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo03464j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a life-threatening disease that leads to dyspnea and progressive loss of lung function. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of betanin (BET), the major pigment in red beetroot, on pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin (BLM) in rats and to assess the underlying mechanisms. In this view, total and differential cell counts and LDH activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were estimated. Furthermore, MDA and GSH contents in the lungs were colorimetrically measured, while hydroxyproline, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, TGF-β1, and vimentin levels in lung tissue were evaluated using the ELISA technique. Moreover, IL-1β, E-cadherin, and α-SMA expressions were analyzed by immunostaining of lung specimens. BET treatment protects against pulmonary fibrosis as indicated by the reduction in total and differential cell counts, LDH activity, hydroxyproline, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and TGF-β1 levels. MDA content was also decreased following BET administration, while GSH content was elevated. Additionally, BET suppressed the EMT process as evidenced by an increase in E-cadherin expression besides the reduction in vimentin and α-SMA expressions. To conclude, these results revealed the protective effect of BET against pulmonary fibrosis that might be attributed to the attenuation of the NLRP3/IL-1β/TGF-β1 signaling pathway and EMT process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesma A Abd Elrazik
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Sahar A Helmy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
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Zeyada MS, Eraky SM, El-Shishtawy MM. Trigonelline mitigates bleomycin-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis: Insight into NLRP3 inflammasome and SPHK1/S1P/Hippo signaling modulation. Life Sci 2024; 336:122272. [PMID: 37981228 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic interstitial lung disease with an increasing incidence following the COVID-19 outbreak. Pirfenidone (Pirf), an FDA-approved pulmonary anti-fibrotic drug, is poorly tolerated and exhibits limited efficacy. Trigonelline (Trig) is a natural plant alkaloid with diverse pharmacological actions. We investigated the underlying prophylactic and therapeutic mechanisms of Trig in ameliorating bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF and the possible synergistic antifibrotic activity of Pirf via its combination with Trig. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single dose of BLM was administered intratracheally to male Sprague-Dawley rats for PF induction. In the prophylactic study, Trig was given orally 3 days before BLM and then for 28 days. In the therapeutic study, Trig and/or Pirf were given orally from day 8 after BLM until the 28th day. Biochemical assay, histopathology, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry were performed on lung tissues. KEY FINDINGS Trig prophylactically and therapeutically mitigated the inflammatory process via targeting NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling. Trig activated the autophagy process which in turn attenuated alveolar epithelial cells apoptosis and senescence. Remarkably, Trig attenuated lung SPHK1/S1P axis and its downstream Hippo targets, YAP-1, and TAZ, with a parallel decrease in YAP/TAZ profibrotic genes. Interestingly, Trig upregulated lung miR-375 and miR-27a expression. Consequently, epithelial-mesenchymal transition in lung tissues was reversed upon Trig administration. These results were simultaneously associated with profound improvement in lung histological alterations. SIGNIFICANCE The current study verifies Trig's prophylactic and antifibrotic effects against BLM-induced PF via targeting multiple signaling. Trig and Pirf combination may be a promising approach to synergize Pirf antifibrotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menna S Zeyada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Salma M Eraky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mamdouh M El-Shishtawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
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Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. A review of how the saffron (Crocus sativus) petal and its main constituents interact with the Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:1879-1909. [PMID: 37067583 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02487-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The primary by-product of saffron (Crocus sativus) processing is saffron petals, which are produced in large quantities but are discarded. The saffron petals contain a variety of substances, including alkaloids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, glycosides, kaempferol, and minerals. Pharmacological investigations revealed the antibacterial, antidepressant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antinociceptive, antispasmodic, antitussive, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and renoprotective properties of saffron petals, which are based on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway protects against oxidative stress, carcinogenesis, and inflammation. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-ĸB) is a protein complex involved in approximately all animal cells and participates in different biological procedures such as apoptosis, cell growth, development, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) transcription, immune response, and inflammation. The pharmacological properties of saffron and its compounds are discussed in this review, along with their associated modes of action, particularly the Nrf2 and NF-ĸB signaling pathways. Without considering a time constraint, our team conducted this review using search engines or electronic databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Saffron petals and their main constituents may have protective effects in numerous organs such as the brain, colon, heart, joints, liver, lung, and pancreas through several mechanisms, including the Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) signaling cascade, which would then result in its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Qin S, Tan P, Xie J, Zhou Y, Zhao J. A systematic review of the research progress of traditional Chinese medicine against pulmonary fibrosis: from a pharmacological perspective. Chin Med 2023; 18:96. [PMID: 37537605 PMCID: PMC10398979 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00797-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease caused by a variety of etiologies. The disease can eventually lead to irreversible damage to the lung tissue structure, severely affecting respiratory function and posing a serious threat to human health. Currently, glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants are the main drugs used in the clinical treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, but their efficacy is limited and they can cause serious adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicines have important research value and potential for clinical application in anti-pulmonary fibrosis. In recent years, more and more scientific researches have been conducted on the use of traditional Chinese medicine to improve or reduce pulmonary fibrosis, and some important breakthroughs have been made. This review paper systematically summarized the research progress of pharmacological mechanism of traditional Chinese medicines and their active compounds in improving or reducing pulmonary fibrosis. We conducted a systematic search in several main scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial pneumonia, natural products, herbal medicine, and therapeutic methods. Ultimately, 252 articles were included and systematically evaluated in this analysis. The anti-fibrotic mechanisms of these traditional Chinese medicine studies can be roughly categorized into 5 main aspects, including inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improvement of extracellular matrix deposition, mediation of apoptosis and autophagy, and inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress. The purpose of this article is to provide pharmaceutical researchers with information on the progress of scientific research on improving or reducing Pulmonary fibrosis with traditional Chinese medicine, and to provide reference for further pharmacological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbo Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Peng Tan
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Junjie Xie
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Junning Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of TCM Quality of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Alyoussef A. Investigation of the Ability of Crocin to Treat Skin Cancer Chemically Induced in Mice via the Inhibition of the Wnt/β-Catenin and Fibrotic Pathway. Cureus 2023; 15:e38596. [PMID: 37284388 PMCID: PMC10239655 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Wnt pathway is a major pathway in the pathogenesis of skin cancer. Moreover, crocin is one of the carotenoid compounds present in the flowers of gardenia and crocus. Crocin is responsible for the characteristic color of saffron. Aims This study was conducted to discover the therapeutic effects of crocin against skin cancer induced in mice by blocking the Wnt pathway with subsequent effects on inflammation and fibrosis. Methods For the induction of skin cancer in mice, the application of DMBA and Croton oil was used. The dorsal skin was used for the evaluation of the gene and protein expression of TGF-β, SMAD, Wnt, β-catenin, TNF-α, and NFκB. Part of the skin is stained with Mallory trichrome. Results The use of crocin for treating skin cancer mice significantly reduced both the number of tumors and the number of scratches. In addition, crocin inhibited epidermal hyperplasia. Finally, crocin reduced the gene expression and protein levels of Wnt, β-catenin, SMAD, NFκB; TGF-β and TNF-α. Conclusions Crocin produced therapeutic effects against skin cancer induced in mice by blocking the expression of Wnt followed by blocking the pro-inflammatory pathway through downregulation of NFκB and TNF-α. In addition, crocin blocked the fibrosis pathway via the downregulation of TGF-β.
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Liu T, Gu J, Yuan Y, Yang Q, Zheng PF, Shan C, Wang F, Li H, Xie XQ, Chen XH, Ouyang Q. Discovery of a pyrano[2,3-b]pyridine derivative YX-2102 as a cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist for alleviating lung fibrosis. J Transl Med 2022; 20:565. [PMID: 36474298 PMCID: PMC9724349 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03773-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R) is a promising therapeutic strategy for pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Thus, to develop CB2R selective ligands with new chemical space has attracted much research interests. This work aims to discover a novel CB2R agonist from an in-house library, and to evaluate its therapeutic effects on PF model, as well as to disclose the pharmacological mechanism. METHODS Virtual screening was used to identify the candidate ligand for CB2R from a newly established in-house library. Both in vivo experiments on PF rat model and in vitro experiments on cells were performed to investigate the therapeutic effects of the lead compound and underlying mechanism. RESULTS A "natural product-like" pyrano[2,3-b]pyridine derivative, YX-2102 was identified that bound to CB2R with high affinity. Intraperitoneal YX-2102 injections significantly ameliorated lung injury, inflammation and fibrosis in a rat model of PF induced by bleomycin (BLM). On one hand, YX-2102 inhibited inflammatory response at least partially through modulating macrophages polarization thereby exerting protective effects. Whereas, on the other hand, YX-2102 significantly upregulated CB2R expression in alveolar epithelial cells in vivo. Its pretreatment inhibited lung alveolar epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and PF model induced by transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) via a CB2 receptor-dependent pathway. Further studies suggested that the Nrf2-Smad7 pathway might be involved in. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that CB2R is a potential target for PF treatment and YX-2102 is a promising CB2R agonist with new chemical space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jing Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yi Yuan
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qunfang Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Peng-Fei Zheng
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Changyu Shan
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Fangqin Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Hongwei Li
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Xiao-Hong Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Qin Ouyang
- College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Hepatoprotective effects of carvedilol and crocin against leflunomide-induced liver injury. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109297. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Gao J, Zhao F, Yi S, Li S, Zhu A, Tang Y, Li A. Protective role of crocin against sepsis-induced injury in the liver, kidney and lungs via inhibition of p38 MAPK/NF-κB and Bax/Bcl-2 signalling pathways. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:543-552. [PMID: 35225146 PMCID: PMC8890572 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2042328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Crocin has been reported to have multiple bioactivities. However, the effect of crocin administration on caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis remains unknown. OBJECTIVE We investigated the effects of crocin on CLP-induced sepsis in mice and the underlying mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five experimental groups (n = 10) of BALB/c mice were used: control, CLP (normal saline) and CLP + crocin (50, 100 and 250 mg/kg, 30 min prior to CLP). Mice were sacrificed 24 h after CLP. Liver, kidney and lung histopathology, indicator levels, apoptotic status, pro-inflammatory cytokines and relative protein levels were evaluated. RESULTS Compared to the CLP group, crocin treatment significantly increased the survival rate (70%, 80%, 90% vs. 30%). Crocin groups exhibited protection against liver, kidney and lung damage with mild-to-moderate morphological changes and lower indicator levels: liver (2.80 ± 0.45, 2.60 ± 0.55, 1.60 ± 0.55 vs. 5.60 ± 0.55), kidney (3.00 ± 0.71, 2.60 ± 0.55, 1.40 ± 0.55 vs. 6.20 ± 0.84) and lungs (8.00 ± 1.59, 6.80 ± 1.64, 2.80 ± 0.84 vs. 14.80 ± 1.79). The proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 levels in the crocin groups) were distinctly lower and the apoptotic index showed a significant decrease. Crocin administration significantly suppressed p38 MAPK phosphorylation and inhibited NF-κB/IκBα and Bcl-2/Bax activation. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Pre-treatment with crocin confers protective effects against CLP-induced liver, kidney and lung injury, implying it to be a potential therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Shaona Yi
- Department of Nephrology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Shuhang Li
- Department of Urology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Aiqing Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yingxiu Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Aiqun Li
- Department of Emergency, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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Recent advances in respiratory diseases: Dietary carotenoids as choice of therapeutics. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113786. [PMID: 36271564 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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El-Kashef DH, Youssef ME, Nasr M, Alrouji M, Alhajlah S, AlOmeir O, El Adle Khalaf N, Ghaffar DMA, Jamil L, Abdel-Nasser ZM, Ibrahim S, Abdeldaiem MSI, Donia SS, Mohammed OA, Morsy NE, Shata A, Saber S. Pimitespib, an HSP90 inhibitor, augments nifuroxazide-induced disruption in the IL-6/STAT3/HIF-1α autocrine loop in rats with bleomycin-challenged lungs: Evolutionary perspective in managing pulmonary fibrosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113487. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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Boozari M, Hosseinzadeh H. Crocin molecular signaling pathways at a glance: A comprehensive review. Phytother Res 2022; 36:3859-3884. [PMID: 35989419 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Crocin is a hydrophilic carotenoid that is synthesized in the flowers of the Crocus genus. Numerous in vitro and in vivo research projects have been published about the biological and pharmacological properties and toxicity of crocin. Crocin acts as a memory enhancer, anxiolytic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant, neuroprotective, and so on. Here, we introduce an updated and comprehensive review of crocin molecular mechanisms based on previously examined and mentioned in the literature. Different studies confirmed the significant effect of crocin to control pathological conditions, including oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. The neuroprotective effect of crocin could be related to the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Notch, and cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein signaling pathways. The crocin also protects the cardiovascular system through the inhibitory effect on toll-like receptors. The regulatory effect of crocin on PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMP-activated protein kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor pathways can play an effective role in the treatment of metabolic disorders. The crocin has anticancer activity through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, vascular endothelial growth factor, Wnt/β-catenin, and Janus kinases-signal transducer and activator of transcription suppression. Also, the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and p53 signaling pathway activation may be effective in the anticancer effect of crocin. Finally, among signaling pathways regulated by crocin, the most important ones seem to be those related to the regulatory effect on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Boozari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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15
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Bastani S, Vahedian V, Rashidi M, Mir A, Mirzaei S, Alipourfard I, Pouremamali F, Nejabati H, Kadkhoda J, Maroufi NF, Akbarzadeh M. An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113297. [PMID: 35738178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Vahedian
- Cancer Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Institute of Biotechnology (FMB-IBTEC) Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Mir
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institutitue of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection - Faculty of Natural Sciences - University of Silesia - Katowice - Poland
| | - Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamileh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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16
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The physicochemical properties and immunomodulatory activities of gardenia yellow pigment from gardenia fruit. J Funct Foods 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2022.105096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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17
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Sheng Y, Gong X, Zhao J, Liu Y, Yuan Y. Effects of Crocin on CCL2/CCR2 Inflammatory Pathway in Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Rats. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2022; 50:241-259. [PMID: 34931588 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x22500082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a malignant cardiopulmonary disease, in which pulmonary arterial remodeling is regarded as the prominent pathological feature. So far, the mechanism of PAH is still unclear, so its treatment remains a challenge. However, inflammation plays an important part in the occurrence and progression of PAH. It is well known that crocin has anti-inflammatory properties, so we investigated whether crocin could be a potential drug for the treatment of PAH rat models. Rats injected subcutaneously with monocrotaline (MCT) were treated with crocin via a gastric tube daily for four weeks. The results showed that crocin treatment significantly reduced the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) in the PAH rat models. Moreover, crocin treatment reduced the proliferation of pulmonary arteriole smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). In addition, crocin treatment not only relieved inflammatory cell infiltration and collagen fiber hyperplasia in the lung and right ventricle, but also decreased the expression of the CCL2/CCR2 inflammatory pathway in the lung of PAH rat models. Furthermore, crocin treatment reduced the inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress responses. In summary, crocin may play a protective role in MCT-induced PAH rats by alleviating inflammatory response, improving pulmonary arterial remodeling, and preventing PAH. Therefore, crocin as a new treatment for PAH may be quite worthy of consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Sheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P. R. China
| | - Xiaowei Gong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P. R. China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Huabei Petroleum Administration Bureau General Hospital, Huizhan Road, Renqiu, Hebei 062552, P. R. China
| | - Yadong Yuan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P. R. China
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18
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Estornut C, Milara J, Bayarri MA, Belhadj N, Cortijo J. Targeting Oxidative Stress as a Therapeutic Approach for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:794997. [PMID: 35126133 PMCID: PMC8815729 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.794997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic interstitial lung disease characterized by an abnormal reepithelialisation, an excessive tissue remodelling and a progressive fibrosis within the alveolar wall that are not due to infection or cancer. Oxidative stress has been proposed as a key molecular process in pulmonary fibrosis development and different components of the redox system are altered in the cellular actors participating in lung fibrosis. To this respect, several activators of the antioxidant machinery and inhibitors of the oxidant species and pathways have been assayed in preclinical in vitro and in vivo models and in different clinical trials. This review discusses the role of oxidative stress in the development and progression of IPF and its underlying mechanisms as well as the evidence of oxidative stress in human IPF. Finally, we analyze the mechanism of action, the efficacy and the current status of different drugs developed to inhibit the oxidative stress as anti-fibrotic therapy in IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Estornut
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Cristina Estornut, ; Javier Milara,
| | - Javier Milara
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Pharmacy Unit, University General Hospital Consortium, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERES, Health Institute Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Cristina Estornut, ; Javier Milara,
| | - María Amparo Bayarri
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Nada Belhadj
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Julio Cortijo
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Pharmacy Unit, University General Hospital Consortium, Valencia, Spain
- CIBERES, Health Institute Carlos III, Valencia, Spain
- Research and Teaching Unit, University General Hospital Consortium, Valencia, Spain
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19
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Soleiman-Meigooni S, Hoseini Yekta N, Sheikhan HR, Aminianfar M, Hamidi-Farahani R, Ahmadi M, Asgari A, Kazemi-Galougahi MH, Rahimi R. Efficacy of a standardized herbal formulation from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. as an adjuvant treatment in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled trial. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2022; 13:100670. [PMID: 36320214 PMCID: PMC9613802 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2022.100670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction As no specific pharmacological intervention has been known for COVID-19, medicinal plants may be a suitable candidate for management of this disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a herbal syrup from licorice as an adjuvant treatment in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Materials and methods 213 hospitalized patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were assigned to receive either standardized licorice syrup as an adjuvant treatment plus standard care [Syrup Group (SYRUP), N = 91], or standard care alone [Standard Group (STANDARD), N = 104], for 7 days. The primary endpoint was duration of hospitalization in survivors. The secondary endpoints included 25% increase in oxygen saturation, C-reactive protein (CRP) difference and lymphocyte difference from baseline, number of death and number of patients transferred to ICU. Results Mean duration of admission was 5.24 days in SYRUP and 7.14 days in STANDARD (p < 0.001). Oxygen saturation increased in 86 of 91 patients (94.5%) in the licorice group, compared to 83 of 104 patients (79.8%) in the control group (p = 0.002). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the number of patients died during hospitalization (p = 0.837). Five patients in SYRUP and 16 patients in STANDARD were transferred to ICU (p < 0.026). Mean reduction in CRP (p < 0.001) and mean increase in the number of lymphocytes (p = 0.008) in SYRUP were significantly higher than STANDARD. Discussion Licorice syrup as an adjuvant treatment demonstrated promising results on duration of hospital admission, O2 saturation as well as inflammatory markers in COVID-19 patients; however, further clinical studies with larger sample size are suggested to achieve more conclusive results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nafiseh Hoseini Yekta
- Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Sheikhan
- Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Islamic Azad University, Karaj Branch, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Aminianfar
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Hamidi-Farahani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mousa Ahmadi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Asgari
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Roja Rahimi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author.
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20
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Wu H, Wang D, Shi H, Liu N, Wang C, Tian J, Wang X, Zhang Z. PM 2.5 and water-soluble components induce airway fibrosis through TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway in asthmatic rats. Mol Immunol 2021; 137:1-10. [PMID: 34175710 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have suggested that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and asthma have been independently associated with pulmonary fibrosis but rarely studied together. Furthermore, it is unknown whether airway fibrosis in asthma is more attributable to water-soluble ions of PM2.5. Our current study was to explore the potential mechanism of PM2.5 and water-soluble components on airway fibrosis in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized asthmatic rats. Rats were intratracheally instilled with PM2.5 and water-soluble components every 3 days for 4 times or 8 times. Histopathological examination demonstrated that lung inflammatory and airway fibrosis were induced after PM2.5 and water-soluble components exposure. Meanwhile, PM2.5, in particular water-soluble extracts, increased expression of collagen 1 (COL-1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Smad family member 3 (Smad3), and p-Smad3, whereas decreased secretion of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). However, pretreating asthmatic rats with SB432542, the inhibitor of TGF-β1, and SIS3 HCl, the antagonist of Smad3, both reversed the activation of airway fibrosis induced by water-soluble extracts. Therefore, TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway may be responsible for the pathological process of airway fibrosis in asthmatic rats following PM2.5 and water-soluble components exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Wu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Hao Shi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Nannan Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Caihong Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Jiayu Tian
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Zhihong Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
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21
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Peng L, Wen L, Shi Q, Gao F, Huang B, Wang C. Chelerythrine Ameliorates Pulmonary Fibrosis via Activating the Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway. Cell Biochem Biophys 2021; 79:337-347. [PMID: 33580396 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-021-00967-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chelerythrine (CHE) is a natural benzophenanthridine alkaloid, which has shown its anti-fibrosis activity in kidney and liver, while the impact of CHE in pulmonary fibrosis is still unclear. This study is developed to explore the impact and mechanism of CHE in pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis mouse models were established through intratracheal injection of bleomycin (BLM), after which the mice were intraperitoneally injected with CHE (0.375 or 0.75 mg/kg/d) every other day. The mice were sacrificed at the 28th day to collect blood serum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and pulmonary tissues. Then, the severity of pulmonary fibrosis and the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2 [NF-E2]-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the pulmonary tissues were detected. Western blot analysis quantified the expressions of fibronectin and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). The levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), TGF-β and hydroxyproline (HP) in the BALF, and pulmonary tissues were measured. The expression levels of Nrf2 and its downstream genes, hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD (P) H: quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) were examined. CHE at the concentration of 0.375 or 0.75 mg/kg/d could attenuate pulmonary fibrosis. CHE injection reduced the expression levels of fibronectin, α-SMA, and TGF-β, upregulated the levels of SOD and GSH and decreased the levels of 4-HNE and HP. Also, CHE increased the expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1. Treatment of Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) inhibitor could block the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, thus perturbing the inhibition of CHE on BLM-stimulated pulmonary fibrosis in mice. CHE alleviates BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through activating the Nrf2/ARE pathway to increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Peng
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Li Wen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingfeng Shi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Changming Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China.
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22
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Cymbopogon winterianus Essential Oil Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in a Murine Model. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13050679. [PMID: 34065064 PMCID: PMC8150729 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The essential oil of Cymbopogon winterianus (EOCW) is a natural product with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties. We studied the effect of EOCW in the progression of histological changes of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) in a rodent model. The oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and characterized using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Intratracheal instillation of bleomycin was performed in 30 rats to induce PF, while Sham animals were subjected to instillation of saline solution. The treatment was performed using daily oral administration of distilled water, EOCW at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, and deflazacort (DFC). After 28 days, hemogram and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were assayed. Histological grading of PF, immunohistochemical expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were also analyzed. The EOCW major compounds were found to be citronellal, geraniol, and citronellol. EOCW significantly reduced inflammation in BALF, reduced MDA levels, and increased SOD activity. EOCW attenuated histological grading of PF and reduced immunohistochemical expression of α-SMA and TGF-β in a dose-dependent way, likely due to the reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and TGF-β-induced myofibroblast differentiation.
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23
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Ghasemnejad-Berenji M. Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential of crocin in COVID-19 treatment. J Food Biochem 2021; 45:e13718. [PMID: 33817822 PMCID: PMC8250063 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The current COVID‐19 pandemic is one of the most devastating events in recent history. In the lack of a specific treatment and vaccine for this novel infection, finding effective drugs against this infection is crucial. We suggest the hypothesis that crocin, the main carotenoid of saffron, has the potential to limit the progression and severity of the SARS‐CoV2 infection for several reasons: (a) crocin possesses powerful antioxidant properties, (b) crocin can alleviate the uncontrolled cytokine production responsible for acute lung injury, (c) crocin can upregulate PPARγ and downregulate NF‐κB expression which leads to a wide range of immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory effects, and (d) crocin can reduce the viral‐induced oxidative stress and downregulates ACE2 expression by activating Nrf2 pathway. We hope our hypothesis, corroborated by preclinical evidence, will inspire further targeted studies to test crocin as a beneficial drug against the SARS‐CoV2 infection. Practical applications Crocin is a natural antioxidant and the main active carotenoid components of saffron. We suggest the hypothesis that crocin has the potential to limit the progression and severity of the SARS‐CoV2 infection because of its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Furthermore, this compound may prevent viral entry to host cells and reduce SARS‐CoV2‐induced lung injury. Therefore, we suggest further clinical studies on the effects of crocin against SARS‐Cov‐2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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24
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Bahramsoltani R, Rahimi R. An Evaluation of Traditional Persian Medicine for the Management of SARS-CoV-2. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:571434. [PMID: 33324206 PMCID: PMC7724033 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.571434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A new coronavirus causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged and with it, a global investigation of new antiviral treatments and supportive care for organ failure due to this life-threatening viral infection. Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) is one of the most ancient medical doctrines mostly known with the manuscripts of Avicenna and Rhazes. In this paper, we first introduce a series of medicinal plants that would potentially be beneficial in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection according to TPM textbooks. Then, we review medicinal plants based on the pharmacological studies obtained from electronic databases and discuss their mechanism of action in SARS-CoV-2 infection. There are several medicinal plants in TPM with cardiotonic, kidney tonic, and pulmonary tonic activities, protecting the lung, heart, and kidney, the three main vulnerable organs in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Some medicinal plants can prevent "humor infection", a situation described in TPM which has similar features to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Pharmacological evaluations are in line with the therapeutic activities of several plants mentioned in TPM, mostly through antiviral, cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Amongst the primarily-introduced medicinal plants from TPM, rhubarb, licorice, garlic, saffron, galangal, and clove are the most studied plants and represent candidates for clinical studies. The antiviral compounds isolated from these plants provide novel molecular structures to design new semisynthetic antiviral agents. Future clinical studies in healthy volunteers as well as patients suffering from pulmonary infections are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of these plants as complementary and integrative interventions in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roodabeh Bahramsoltani
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- PhytoPharmacology Interest Group (PPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Roja Rahimi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- PhytoPharmacology Interest Group (PPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
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25
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Sohrabi F, Dianat M, Badavi M, Radan M, Mard SA. Does gallic acid improve cardiac function by attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation in an elastase-induced lung injury? IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2020; 23:1130-1138. [PMID: 32963734 PMCID: PMC7491503 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2020.46427.10721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective(s): Cardiovascular disease has an important role in mortality caused by lung injury. Emphysema is associated with impaired pulmonary gas exchange efficiency and airflow limitation associated with small airway inflammation. The aim was to evaluate the interactions between lung injury, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. Since gallic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, we hypothesized that gallic acid protects the lung and the related heart dysfunction in elastase-induced lung injury. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into six groups: Control, Porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) , PPE+GA, and 3 groups for different doses of gallic acid (GA 7.5, GA 15, GA 30 mg/kg). PPE was injected intra-tracheally on days 1 and 10 of the test. In each group, electrocardiography, hemodynamic parameters, oxidative stress, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were examined. Results: PPE administration showed a decrease in HR and QRS voltage of electrocardiogram parameters, as well as in hemodynamic parameters (P<0.05, P<0.01, and P<0.001) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P<0.05). Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNF-α) (P<0.001), interleukin 6 (IL-6) (P<0.001), interleukin 6 (MDA) (P<0.001), and the total number of white blood cells (P<0.001) showed an increase in PPE groups. Gallic acid preserved the values of hemodynamic properties, oxidative stress, inflammation, and electrocardiogram parameters in comparison to the PPE group. Conclusion: Briefly, this study showed the valuable effect of gallic acid in cardiac dysfunction related to elastase-induced lung injury. These findings suggested that gallic acid, as a natural antioxidant, has a potential therapeutic effect on preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, and subsequent cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Sohrabi
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahin Dianat
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Badavi
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Maryam Radan
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ali Mard
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Berberine hydrochloride inhibits inflammation and fibrosis after canalicular laceration repair in rabbits. Life Sci 2020; 261:118479. [PMID: 32966840 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study was designed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects of Berberine hydrochloride (BBR) following canalicular laceration (CL) surgical repair. MAIN METHODS We used a rabbit CL model in this study. BBR and the control medicine were administered during and after the surgical operation. The degree of fibrosis in the canaliculi was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining 7 days after the operation. Inflammation inside the canaliculi was observed using a transcanalicular endoscope. Expression levels of inflammatory cell cytokines [tumor growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), intracellular adhesion molecule-I (ICAM-1), and interleukin-β1 (IL-1β)] were detected using immunohistochemistry. P38 and ERK1 phosphorylation and activation were determined using western blot analysis. KEY FINDINGS The degree of inflammation and fibrosis were less in the BBR groups compared to Surgery group. The anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects of BBR were concentration-dependent. The levels of TGF-β1, CTGF, ICAM-1, and IL-1β were significantly lower in the BBR groups compared to Surgery group. BBR reduced the phosphorylation of P38 compared to Surgery group. SIGNIFICANCE In conclusion, this study shows that BBR can reduce local fibrosis after CL surgical repair via its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects.
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Dianat M, Radan M, Mard SA, Sohrabi F, Saryazdi SSN. Contribution of reactive oxygen species via the OXR1 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension: The protective role of Crocin. Life Sci 2020; 256:117848. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Hashemzaei M, Mamoulakis C, Tsarouhas K, Georgiadis G, Lazopoulos G, Tsatsakis A, Shojaei Asrami E, Rezaee R. Crocin: A fighter against inflammation and pain. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 143:111521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Insights into the Role of Bioactive Food Ingredients and the Microbiome in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176051. [PMID: 32842664 PMCID: PMC7503951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic disease mainly associated with aging and, to date, its causes are still largely unknown. It has been shown that dietary habits can accelerate or delay the occurrence of aging-related diseases; however, their potential role in IPF development has been underestimated so far. The present review summarizes the evidence regarding the relationship between diet and IPF in humans, and in animal models of pulmonary fibrosis, in which we discuss the bioactivity of specific dietary food ingredients, including fatty acids, peptides, amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. Interestingly, many animal studies reveal preventive and therapeutic effects of particular compounds. Furthermore, it has been recently suggested that the lung and gut microbiota could be involved in IPF, a relationship which may be linked to changes in immunological and inflammatory factors. Thus, all the evidence so far puts forward the idea that the gut-lung axis could be modulated by dietary factors, which in turn have an influence on IPF development. Overall, the data reviewed here support the notion of identifying food ingredients with potential benefits in IPF, with the ultimate aim of designing nutritional approaches as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy.
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Kseibati MO, Shehatou GSG, Sharawy MH, Eladl AE, Salem HA. Nicorandil ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats through modulating eNOS, iNOS, TXNIP and HIF-1α levels. Life Sci 2020; 246:117423. [PMID: 32057902 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bleomycin (BLM) is one of the most common anti-cancer drugs used to treat numerous types of tumors. However, pulmonary toxicity is considered the most dramatic effect of BLM. Therefore, BLM has been frequently used for induction of pulmonary fibrosis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nicorandil on BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis and explore the possible mechanisms. BLM was instilled intratracheally into male Sprague-Dawley rats as a single dose (5 mg/kg) and oral nicorandil was given (30 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks after BLM challenge. At the end of experimental period, rats were sacrificed, and lung histopathology and biochemical parameters were evaluated. Nicorandil therapy attenuated lung inflammation and fibrosis elicited by BLM. Nicorandil significantly reduced total protein content, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and total and differential cell counts. Moreover, nicorandil diminished lung levels of malondialdehyde and total nitrite/nitrate, in addition to increasing lung contents of reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase activity. Nicorandil reduced lung and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid contents of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and lung content of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). Besides, nicorandil significantly improved histological lesions and reduced collagen deposition as well as hydroxyproline content. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that nicorandil-treated rats exhibited significant diminutions in protein expression levels of transforming growth factor beta-1(TGF-β1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and enhanced pulmonary protein expression of endothelial NOS (eNOS). In conclusion, these results illustrate the possible potential effects of nicorandil for managing pulmonary fibrosis caused by BLM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed O Kseibati
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - George S G Shehatou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for science and Technology, Gamasa City, Egypt
| | - Maha H Sharawy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed E Eladl
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hatem A Salem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
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