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Baiskhanova D, Schäfer H. The Role of Nrf2 in the Regulation of Mitochondrial Function and Ferroptosis in Pancreatic Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:696. [PMID: 38929135 PMCID: PMC11201043 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060696] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) represents the master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response and plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. This includes a preventive effect of Nrf2 on cell death through ferroptosis, which represents an essential mechanism of therapy resistance in malignant tumors, such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as one of the most aggressive and still incurable tumors. Addressing this issue, we provide an overview on Nrf2 mediated antioxidant response with particular emphasis on its effect on mitochondria as the organelle responsible for the execution of ferroptosis. We further outline how deregulated Nrf2 adds to the progression and therapy resistance of PDAC, especially with respect to the role of ferroptosis in anti-cancer drug mediated cell killing and how this is impaired by Nrf2 as an essential mechanism of drug resistance. Our review further discusses recent approaches for Nrf2 inhibition by natural and synthetic compounds to overcome drug resistance based on enhanced ferroptosis. Finally, we provide an outlook on therapeutic strategies based on Nrf2 inhibition combined with ferroptosis inducing drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinara Baiskhanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Gastroenterology and Tumor Biology, Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany;
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Posadino AM, Giordo R, Pintus G, Mohammed SA, Orhan IE, Fokou PVT, Sharopov F, Adetunji CO, Gulsunoglu-Konuskan Z, Ydyrys A, Armstrong L, Sytar O, Martorell M, Razis AFA, Modu B, Calina D, Habtemariam S, Sharifi-Rad J, Cho WC. Medicinal and mechanistic overview of artemisinin in the treatment of human diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114866. [PMID: 37182516 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin (ART) is a bioactive compound isolated from the plant Artemisia annua and has been traditionally used to treat conditions such as malaria, cancer, viral infections, bacterial infections, and some cardiovascular diseases, especially in Asia, North America, Europe and other parts of the world. This comprehensive review aims to update the biomedical potential of ART and its derivatives for treating human diseases highlighting its pharmacokinetic and pharmacological properties based on the results of experimental pharmacological studies in vitro and in vivo. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of action, tested doses and toxic effects of artemisinin were also described. The analysis of data based on an up-to-date literature search showed that ART and its derivatives display anticancer effects along with a wide range of pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antiviral, antimalarial, antioxidant and cardioprotective effects. These compounds have great potential for discovering new drugs used as adjunctive therapies in cancer and various other diseases. Detailed translational and experimental studies are however needed to fully understand the pharmacological effects of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Posadino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberta Giordo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro, 07100 Sassari, Italy; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, University City Rd, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Soheb Anwar Mohammed
- Center for Ultrasound Molecular Imaging and Therapeutics, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ilkay Erdogan Orhan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, 06330 Ankara, Turkey; Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA), Vedat Dalokay Cad., No. 112, 06670 Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Farukh Sharopov
- V.I. Nikitin Chemistry Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, Ayni 299/2, 734063 Dushanbe, Tajikistan
| | - Charles Oluwaseun Adetunji
- Applied Microbiology, Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Edo State University Uzairue, Iyamho, PMB 04 Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Zehra Gulsunoglu-Konuskan
- Faculty of Health Science, Nutrition and Dietetics Department, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul 34295, Turkey
| | - Alibek Ydyrys
- Biomedical Research Centre, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi ave. 71, 050040 Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Lorene Armstrong
- State University of Ponta Grossa, Departament of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 84030900 Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil; Federal University of Paraná, Department of Pharmacy, 80210170 Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Oksana Sytar
- Institute of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Slovak Agricultural University in Nitra, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, 4070386 Concepción, Chile; Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, 4070386 Concepción, Chile.
| | - Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; Natural Medicines and Products Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Babagana Modu
- Natural Medicines and Products Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Maiduguri, 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania.
| | - Solomon Habtemariam
- Pharmacognosy Research & Herbal Analysis Services UK, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham-Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | | | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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Lu BW, Liang YX, Liu JF, Sun ZQ, So KF, Chiu K. Retinal safety and toxicity study of artesunate in vitro and in vivo. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2023; 3:47-54. [PMID: 37846375 PMCID: PMC10577838 DOI: 10.1016/j.aopr.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Artesunate (ART), a member of the artemisinin family, possesses multi-properties, including anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and anti-tumor. ART was recently reported to show anti-neovascularization effect on the cornea, iris, and retina. Compared to the expensive anti-VEGF treatment, this versatile, economical treatment option is attractive in the ophthalmic field. The safety and toxicity profile of ART intravitreal application are in utmost need. Methods In this study, immortalized microglial (IMG) cells were treated with ART to determine the safe concentrations without inducing overt inflammatory reactions. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to detect the cytokine expressions in IMG cells in response to ART stimulation. Various doses of ART were intravitreally injected into the right eyes of C57BL/6 mice. Retinal function was tested by electroretinogram, and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival was evaluated by counting Brn3a stained cells in flat-mounted retinas at 7 days after ART injection. Results ART below 5μM was safe for IMG cells in vitro. Both 2.5 and 5 μM ART treatment increased IL-10 gene expression in IMG cells while not changing IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and Arg-1. In the in vivo study, intravitreal injection of ART below 100 μM did not cause deterioration in the retinal function and RGC survival of the mouse eyes, while 1 mM ART treatment significantly attenuated both the scotopic and photopic b-wave amplitudes and impaired RGC survival. In addition, treatment with ART of 25, 50, and 100 μM significantly decreased TNF-α gene expression while ART of 100 μM significantly increased IL-10 in the mouse retina. Conclusions Intravitreal injection of 100 μM ART could downregulate TNF-α while upregulate IL-10 in the mouse retina without causing retinal functional deterioration and RGC loss. ART might be used as anti-inflammatory agent for retinal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Wen Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin-Feng Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhong-Qing Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau (GHM) Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education, CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kin Chiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Liu Z, Meng Y, Miao Y, Yu L, Yu Q. Artesunate reduces sepsis-mediated acute lung injury in a SIRT1-dependent manner. BIOIMPACTS : BI 2023; 13:219-228. [PMID: 37431481 PMCID: PMC10329753 DOI: 10.34172/bi.2023.23585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Sepsis-mediated acute lung injury (ALI) is a critical clinical condition. Artesunate (AS) is a sesquiterpene lactone endoperoxide that was discovered in Artemisia annua, which is a traditional Chinese herb. AS has a broad set of biological and pharmacological actions; however, its protective effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI remains unclear. Methods LPS-mediated ALI was induced in rats through bronchial LPS inhalation. Then NR8383 cells were treated with LPS to establish an in vitro model. Further, we administered different AS doses in vivo and in vitro. Results AS administration significantly decreased LPS-mediated pulmonary cell death and inhibited pulmonary neutrophil infiltration. Additionally, AS administration increased SIRT1 expression in pulmonary sections. Administration of a biological antagonist or shRNA-induced reduction of SIRT1 expression significantly inhibited the protective effect of AS against LPS-induced cellular injury, pulmonary dysfunction, neutrophil infiltration, and apoptosis. This demonstrates that enhanced SIRT1 expression is crucially involved in the observed protective effects. Conclusion Our findings could suggest the use of AS for treating lung disorders through a mechanism involving SIRT1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Yanli Meng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Yu Miao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Lili Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Qiannan Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
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Mehtiyev T, Karaman EF, Ozden S. Alterations in cell viability, reactive oxygen species production, and modulation of gene expression involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular regulating kinase signaling pathway by glyphosate and its commercial formulation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Toxicol Ind Health 2023; 39:81-93. [PMID: 36625791 DOI: 10.1177/07482337221149571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate (N-phosphonomethyl glycine) is a non-selective, organophosphate herbicide widely used in agriculture and forestry. We investigated the possible toxic effects of the glyphosate active compound and its commercial formulation (Roundup Star®) in the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell line, including their effects on the cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and expression of oxidative stress-related genes such as HO-1, Hsp70 Nrf2, L-FABP, and Keap1. MTT and NRU tests indicated that the IC50 values of Roundup Star® were 219 and 140 μM, respectively, and because glyphosate failed to induce cell death at the studied concentrations, an IC50 value could not be determined for this cell line. Roundup Star at concentrations of 50 and 100 μM significantly increased (39.58% and 52%, respectively) cell proliferation, which 200 μM of glyphosate increased by 35.38%. ROS levels increased by 27.97% and 44.77% for 25 and 100 μM of Roundup Star and 32.74% and 38.63% for 100 and 200 μM of glyphosate exposure. In conclusion, Roundup Star and glyphosate significantly increased expression levels of selected genes related to the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling pathway. This suggests that ROS production and the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway may be key molecular mechanisms in the toxicity of glyphosate in liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toghrul Mehtiyev
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, 37516Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Institute of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ecem Fatma Karaman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, 37516Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, 420479Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sibel Ozden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, 37516Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Tong X, Chen L, He SJ, Zuo JP. Artemisinin derivative SM934 in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases: therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:3055-3061. [PMID: 36050518 PMCID: PMC9712343 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00978-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin and its derivatives are the well-known anti-malarial drugs derived from a traditional Chinese medicine. In addition to antimalarial, artemisinin and its derivatives possess distinguished anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activities, but the poor solubility and low bioavailability hinder their clinical application. In the last decades a series of new water-soluble and oil-soluble derivatives were synthesized. Among them, we have found a water-soluble derivative β-aminoarteether maleate (SM934) that exhibits outstanding suppression on lymphocytes proliferation in immunosuppressive capacity and cytotoxicity screening assays with 35-fold higher potency than dihydroartemisinin. SM934 displays significant therapeutic effects on various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and dry eye disease. Here, we summarize the immunomodulatory effects, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-fibrosis activities of SM934 in disease-relevant animal models and present the probable pharmacological mechanisms involved in its therapeutic efficacy. This review also delineates a typical example of natural product-based drug discovery, which might further vitalize natural product exploration and development in pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Tong
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Li Chen
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shi-Jun He
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Jian-Ping Zuo
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Network Pharmacology-Based Exploration on the Intervention of Qinghao Biejia Decoction on the Inflammation-Carcinoma Transformation Process of Chronic Liver Disease via MAPK and PI3k/AKT Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9202128. [PMID: 36277879 PMCID: PMC9586778 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9202128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease(CLD) is a slow-developing and long-term disease that can cause serious damage to the liver. Thus far, it has been associated with viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease(ALD), hepatic fibrosis(HF), liver cirrhosis (LC), and liver cancer. Qinghao Biejia Decoction (QBD) is a classic ancient Chinese herbal prescription with strong immune-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects. In this study, we used a network pharmacology approach to investigate the molecular mechanisms of QBD in the inflammation-carcinoma transformation process of chronic liver disease. Two key drug targets, MAPK1 and PIK3CA, were screened using network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, revealing dihydroartemisinin, artesunate, 12-O-Nicotinoylisolineolone, caffeic acid, and diincarvilone A as active ingredients involved in QBD mechanisms. The main signaling pathways involved were the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway. In summary, our results indicated that QBD affects the inflammatory transformation of chronic liver disease through MAPK1 and PIK3CA and signaling pathways MAPK and PI3K/AKT. These data provide research direction for investigating the mechanisms underlying the inflammation-carcinoma transformation process in QBD for chronic liver disease.
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Current Progress on Neuroprotection Induced by Artemisia, Ginseng, Astragalus, and Ginkgo Traditional Chinese Medicines for the Therapy of Alzheimer's Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:3777021. [PMID: 35746960 PMCID: PMC9213169 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3777021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aging is associated with the occurrence of diverse degenerative changes in various tissues and organs and with an increased incidence of neurological disorders, especially neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In recent years, the search for effective components derived from medicinal plants in delaying aging and preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases has been increasing and the number of related publications shows a rising trend. Here, we present a concise, updated review on the preclinical and clinical research progress in the assessment of the therapeutic potential of different traditional Chinese medicines and derived active ingredients and their effect on the signaling pathways involved in AD neuroprotection. Recognized by their multitargeting ability, these natural compounds hold great potential in developing novel drugs for AD.
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Astragalin and Isoquercitrin Isolated from Aster scaber Suppress LPS-Induced Neuroinflammatory Responses in Microglia and Mice. Foods 2022; 11:foods11101505. [PMID: 35627075 PMCID: PMC9141956 DOI: 10.3390/foods11101505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory effects and mechanisms of astragalin (Ast) and isoquercitrin (Que) isolated from chamchwi (Aster scaber Thunb.) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated microglia and hippocampus of LPS induced mice. LPS induced increased cytotoxicity, nitric oxide (NO) production, antioxidant activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, protein kinase B phosphorylation, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) phosphorylation in LPS-treated microglial cells. Intraperitoneal injection of LPS also induced neuroinflammatory effects in the murine hippocampus. Ast and Que significantly reduced LPS-induced production of NO, iNOS, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the microglia and hippocampus of mice. Therefore, anti-inflammatory effects on MAPK signaling pathways mediate microglial cell and hippocampus inflammation. In LPS-activated microglia and hippocampus of LPS-induced mice, Ast or Que inhibited MAPK kinase phosphorylation by extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 signaling proteins. Ast and Que inhibited LPS-induced ROS generation in microglia and increased 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging. In addition, LPS treatment increased the heme oxygenase-1 level, which was further elevated after Ast or Que treatments. Ast and Que exert anti-neuroinflammatory activity by down-regulation of MAPKs signaling pathways in LPS-activated microglia and hippocampus of mice.
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Ma K, Wu HY, Wang SY, Li BX. The Keap1/Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway is involved in atrazine induced dopaminergic neurons degeneration via microglia activation. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 226:112862. [PMID: 34624533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the mechanisms of ATR-induced dopaminergic toxicity by microglia activation and the response of the Keap1/ Nrf2- ARE signaling pathway. METHODS Wistar rats were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg ATR and BV-2 microglia cells were treated with 50, 100 μM ATR or 100 ng/mL LPS, respectively. Rats behavioral responses and histopathological changes were monitored. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analysis detected Iba-1 and TH+ cells in rats. Keap1/Nrf2-ARE signaling-related proteins and inflammatory factors from BV-2 cells and rats were detected using ELISA, Western blot and Real-time PCR. RESULTS After ATR treatment, the grip strength of Wistar rats was significantly decreased, and anxiety were clearly observed. TH+ neurons were reduced, however, the number of microglia cells and Iba-1 levels were increased clearly in SN. The release of ROS, TNF-α and IL-Iβ were increased, and levels of SOD and GSH-Px were significantly decreased. Keap1 mRNA expression and protein levels were decreased, while nuclear Nrf2 mRNA expression and protein levels were both increased in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION ATR could significantly activate microglia and exacerbate neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation, leading to accelerate dopaminergic neuron cell death by inhibiting Keap1/Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Ma
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150081, PR China.
| | - Hao-Yu Wu
- Department of Environmental Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150081, PR China.
| | - Sheng-Yuan Wang
- Department of Occupational Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150081, PR China.
| | - Bai-Xiang Li
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150081, PR China.
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Efferth T, Oesch F. The immunosuppressive activity of artemisinin-type drugs towards inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3023-3061. [PMID: 34288018 DOI: 10.1002/med.21842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The sesquiterpene lactone artemisinin from Artemisia annua L. is well established for malaria therapy, but its bioactivity spectrum is much broader. In this review, we give a comprehensive and timely overview of the literature regarding the immunosuppressive activity of artemisinin-type compounds toward inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Numerous receptor-coupled signaling pathways are inhibited by artemisinins, including the receptors for interleukin-1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), β3-integrin, or RANKL, toll-like receptors and growth factor receptors. Among the receptor-coupled signal transducers are extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK), phospholipase C γ1 (PLCγ), and others. All these receptors and signal transduction molecules are known to contribute to the inhibition of the transcription factor nuclear factor κ B (NF-κB). Artemisinins may inhibit NF-κB by silencing these upstream pathways and/or by direct binding to NF-κB. Numerous NF-κB-regulated downstream genes are downregulated by artemisinin and its derivatives, for example, cytokines, chemokines, and immune receptors, which regulate immune cell differentiation, apoptosis genes, proliferation-regulating genes, signal transducers, and genes involved in antioxidant stress response. In addition to the prominent role of NF-κB, other transcription factors are also inhibited by artemisinins (mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR], activating protein 1 [AP1]/FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homologue [FOS]/JUN oncogenic transcription factor [JUN]), hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF-1α), nuclear factor of activated T cells c1 (NF-ATC1), Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT), NF E2-related factor-2 (NRF-2), retinoic-acid-receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor γ (ROR-γt), and forkhead box P-3 (FOXP-3). Many in vivo experiments in disease-relevant animal models demonstrate therapeutic efficacy of artemisinin-type drugs against rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus erythematosus, arthrosis, and gout), lung diseases (asthma, acute lung injury, and pulmonary fibrosis), neurological diseases (autoimmune encephalitis, Alzheimer's disease, and myasthenia gravis), skin diseases (dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis), inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Randomized clinical trials should be conducted in the future to translate the plethora of preclinical results into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Franz Oesch
- Oesch-Tox Toxicological Consulting and Expert Opinions, Ingelheim, Germany and Institute of Toxicology, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Xu Y, Wei H, Gao J. Natural Terpenoids as Neuroinflammatory Inhibitors in LPS-stimulated BV-2 Microglia. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:520-534. [PMID: 31198113 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190611124539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a typical feature of many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, readily become activated in response to an infection or an injury. Uncontrolled and overactivated microglia can release pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic factors and are the major culprits in neuroinflammation. Hence, research on novel neuroinflammatory inhibitors is of paramount importance for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide, widely used in the studies of brain inflammation, initiates several major cellular activities that critically contribute to the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation. This review will highlight the progress on terpenoids, an important and structurally diverse group of natural compounds, as neuroinflammatory inhibitors in lipopolysaccharidestimulated BV-2 microglial cells over the last 20 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzhen Xu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products and Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongbo Wei
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products and Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinming Gao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products and Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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13
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Chen Y, Wu J, Zhu J, Yang G, Tian J, Zhao Y, Wang Y. Artesunate Provides Neuroprotection against Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury via the TLR-4/NF-κB Pathway in Rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:350-356. [PMID: 33390425 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b20-00604] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation has an important role in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Artesunate (ART) has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory pharmacological activities, and it is used for various types of serious malaria, including cerebral malaria. ART maintains a high concentration in the brain but little is known about the neuroprotective effect of ART against brain I/R injury. We studied the neuroprotection of ART against brain I/R injury and its underlying mechanism. In this study, rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2 h. After 24 h of reperfusion, neurological deficits, cerebrum water content, infarct volume, hematoxylin-eosin (H&E)-staining, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and proinflammatory cytokine levels were measured. Administration of 20, 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg ART intraperitoneally (i.p.) 10 min after MCAO significantly decreased brain water content and improved neurological deficits in a dose-dependent manner. An 80 mg/kg dosage was optimal. ART significantly reduced infarct volume, suppressed MPO activity and diminished the expressions of toll-like receptor (TLR)-4, MyD88, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6 in the area of the ischemic cortex. The neuroprotective action of ART against focal cerebral I/R injury might be due to the attenuation of inflammation through the TLR-4/NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Chen
- Institute for Cancer Research, School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Department of Pathology, Jinshan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
| | - Jingxian Wu
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University
| | - Jin Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University
| | - Guoan Yang
- Institute for Cancer Research, School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University
| | - Junying Tian
- Department of Foreign Language, Chongqing Medical University
| | - Yong Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University
| | - Yili Wang
- Institute for Cancer Research, School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University
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14
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Zhang E, Wang J, Chen Q, Wang Z, Li D, Jiang N, Ju X. Artesunate ameliorates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by activating the mTOR/AKT/PI3K axis. Gene 2020; 759:144969. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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15
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Funes SC, Rios M, Fernández-Fierro A, Covián C, Bueno SM, Riedel CA, Mackern-Oberti JP, Kalergis AM. Naturally Derived Heme-Oxygenase 1 Inducers and Their Therapeutic Application to Immune-Mediated Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1467. [PMID: 32849503 PMCID: PMC7396584 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Heme oxygenase (HO) is the primary antioxidant enzyme involved in heme group degradation. A variety of stimuli triggers the expression of the inducible HO-1 isoform, which is modulated by its substrate and cellular stressors. A major anti-inflammatory role has been assigned to the HO-1 activity. Therefore, in recent years HO-1 induction has been employed as an approach to treating several disorders displaying some immune alterations components, such as exacerbated inflammation or self-reactivity. Many natural compounds have shown to be effective inductors of HO-1 without cytotoxic effects; among them, most are chemicals present in plants used as food, flavoring, and medicine. Here we discuss some naturally derived compounds involved in HO-1 induction, their impact in the immune response modulation, and the beneficial effect in diverse autoimmune disorders. We conclude that the use of some compounds from natural sources able to induce HO-1 is an attractive lifestyle toward promoting human health. This review opens a new outlook on the investigation of naturally derived HO-1 inducers, mainly concerning autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta C Funes
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariana Rios
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ayleen Fernández-Fierro
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Covián
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Susan M Bueno
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia A Riedel
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Millenium Institute on Immunolgy and Immunotherapy, Facultad Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Pablo Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo, IMBECU CCT Mendoza- CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Fisiología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Alexis M Kalergis
- Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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16
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Zhang K, Yang Y, Ge H, Wang J, Chen X, Lei X, Zhong J, Zhang C, Xian J, Lu Y, Tan L, Feng H. Artesunate promotes the proliferation of neural stem/progenitor cells and alleviates Ischemia-reperfusion Injury through PI3K/Akt/FOXO-3a/p27 kip1 signaling pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:8029-8048. [PMID: 32379706 PMCID: PMC7244066 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death worldwide that also result in long-term disability. Endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) within subventricular (SVZ) and dentate gyrus (DG) zone, stimulated by cerebral infarction, can promote neural function recovery. However, the proliferation of eNSPCs triggered by ischemia is not enough to induce neural repair, which may contribute to the permanent disability in stroke patients. In this study, our results showed that following the treatment with artesunate (ART, 150 mg/kg), the functional recovery was significantly improved, the infarct volume was notably reduced, and the expression of Nestin, a proliferation marker of NSPCs in the infarcted cortex, was also increased. Additionally, the proliferative activity of NSPCs with or without oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion was significantly promoted by ART treatment, and the therapeutic concentration was 0.8 μmol/L (without OGD/R) or 0.4 μmol/L (with OGD/R) in the in vitro model. Furthermore, the effects of ART can be abolished by the treatment of PI3K inhibitor wortmannin. The expression levels of related molecules in PI3K/Akt/FOXO-3a/p27kip1 signaling pathway (p-AKT, p-FOXO-3a, p27kip1) were examined using western blotting. The results suggested ART could inhibit the transcriptional function of FOXO-3a by inducing its phosphorylation, subsequently downregulating p27kip1 and enhancing neural stem cell proliferation in the infarcted cortex via PI3K/AKT signaling, further alleviating ischemia-reperfusion injury after ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hongfei Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ju Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xuezhu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xuejiao Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Zhong
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jishu Xian
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yongling Lu
- Clinical Research Center, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Liang Tan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery and Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
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17
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δ-Opioid Receptor-Nrf-2-Mediated Inhibition of Inflammatory Cytokines in Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:5229-5240. [PMID: 30560518 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1452-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) causes serious neurological disability; there are, however, currently few promising therapies for it. We have recently shown that δ-opioid receptor (DOR) is neuroprotective by downregulating TNF-α. Since hypoxia-ischemia (HI) triggers a robust inflammatory response, which exacerbates HI brain damage, we investigated, in this study, whether DOR activation could regulate inflammatory cytokine expression, thereby playing a protective effect on the neonatal brain under HI. Twenty-five neonatal rats were randomly divided into five groups: (1) control (control); (2) HI; (3) HI with saline (HI + NS); (4) DOR activation with UFP-512 (a potent and specific DOR agonist) under HI conditions (HI + U); and (5) DOR inhibition using NT treatment under HI conditions (HI + NT). The rats were sacrificed by decapitation at 24 h after HI, and their brains were rapidly removed for measurements. The protein expression of TNF-α, IL-6, ICAM-1, IL-10, IL-18, NQO-1, Nrf-2, and HO-1 was measured using Western blot. In the hemispheres exposed to HI, DOR activation significantly decreased the expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, and ICAM-1 in the cortex, while it significantly increased IL-10 and had no effect on IL-18 in the same region. In contrast, DOR had no appreciable effect on inflammatory cytokine expression in non-cortical tissues including hippocampal, subcortical, and cerebellar tissues. Moreover, HI stress triggered an upregulation of Nrf-2 nuclear protein as well as some of its downstream anti-inflammatory genes such as HO-1 and NQO-1 in the cortex, while DOR activation further augmented such a protective reaction against HI injury. DOR plays an important role in protecting against HI by regulating the expression of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the cortex, which is likely mediated by the Nrf-2/HO-1/NQO-1 signaling.
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18
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Crosstalk of toll-like receptors signaling and Nrf2 pathway for regulation of inflammation. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 108:1866-1878. [PMID: 30372892 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation as a second line of defense of innate immunity plays a crucial role in eliminating invading pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi as well as other parasites). The inflammatory response may also activate adaptive immune system involving lymphocytes to mount either antibody dependent or cell-mediated immune responses to clear pathogenic insult. However, if continued, the inflammatory processes may become uncontrolled culminating in cellular injury and tissue destruction, thereby manifesting itself in chronic form. The chronic inflammation has been associated with numerous human pathological conditions like allergies and autoimmune diseases, atherosclerosis, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, schizophrenia, neuro-degenerative diseases and numerous others. The dysregulated inflammatory process is associated with overproduction of free radicals leading to oxidative stress and activation of different cell signaling pathways. The regulation of inflammation by TLR signaling as well as Nrf2 pathways separately is widely documented. Since both these major signaling pathways modulate inflammation, they may crosstalk to bring about coordinated inflammatory responses. The linkage between TLR signaling and Nrf2-Keap1 pathway may serve as a bridge between immune regulation and oxidative stress responses through regulation of inflammation. Also, inflammation is reportedly responsible for the plethora of diseased conditions; a study of its regulation by targeting the TLR-Nrf2 cross-talks may also be beneficial for the development of therapeutic therapies or prophylactic treatments. Hence, present review focuses on the crosstalk between TLR signaling and Nrf2 pathway with respect to their role in modulation of inflammation in normal as well as pathologic conditions.
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19
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Resolving neuroinflammation, the therapeutic potential of the anti-malaria drug family of artemisinin. Pharmacol Res 2018; 136:172-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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20
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Lin SP, Li W, Winters A, Liu R, Yang SH. Artemisinin Prevents Glutamate-Induced Neuronal Cell Death Via Akt Pathway Activation. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:108. [PMID: 29731711 PMCID: PMC5919952 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin is an anti-malarial drug that has been in use for almost half century. Recently, novel biological effects of artemisinin on cancer, inflammation-related disorders and cardiovascular disease were reported. However, neuroprotective actions of artemisinin against glutamate-induced oxidative stress have not been investigated. In the current study, we determined the effect of artemisinin against oxidative insult in HT-22 mouse hippocampal cell line. We found that pretreatment of artemisinin declined reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, attenuated the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential induced by glutamate and rescued HT-22 cells from glutamate-induced cell death. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that artemisinin activated Akt/Bcl-2 signaling and that neuroprotective effect of artemisinin was blocked by Akt-specific inhibitor, MK2206. Taken together, our study indicated that artemisinin prevented neuronal HT-22 cell from glutamate-induced oxidative injury by activation of Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Peng Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States.,Department of Emergency, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Ali Winters
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Ran Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Shao-Hua Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
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21
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Liu Z, Liu F, Liu X, Ma C, Zhao J. Surgical incision induces learning impairment in mice partially through inhibition of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling pathway in the hippocampus and amygdala. Mol Pain 2018; 14:1744806918805902. [PMID: 30232930 PMCID: PMC6194924 DOI: 10.1177/1744806918805902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Surgical incision-induced nociception contributes to the occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. However, the exact mechanisms involved remain unclear. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been demonstrated to improve fear learning ability. In addition, BDNF expression is influenced by the peripheral nociceptive stimulation. Therefore, we hypothesized that surgical incision-induced nociception may cause learning impairment by inhibiting the BDNF/tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) signaling pathway. The fear conditioning test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blot analyses were used to confirm our hypothesis and determine the effect of a plantar incision on the fear learning and the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway in the hippocampus and amygdala. The freezing times in the context test and the tone test were decreased after the plantar incision. A eutectic mixture of local anesthetics attenuated plantar incision-induced postoperative pain and fear learning impairment. ANA-12, a selective TrkB antagonist, abolished the improvement in fear learning and the activation of the BDNF signaling pathway induced by eutectic mixture of local anesthetics. Based on these results, surgical incision-induced postoperative pain, which was attenuated by postoperative analgesia, caused learning impairment in mice partially by inhibiting the BDNF signaling pathway. These findings provide insights into the mechanism underlying surgical incision-induced postoperative cognitive function impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Neuroscience Center, School of Basic Medicine, Joint Laboratory of Anesthesia and Pain, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowen Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Neuroscience Center, School of Basic Medicine, Joint Laboratory of Anesthesia and Pain, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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22
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Li C, Yang F, Liu F, Li D, Yang T. NRF2/HO-1 activation via ERK pathway involved in the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of Astragaloside IV in LPS induced microglial cells. Neurosci Lett 2017; 666:104-110. [PMID: 29273400 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The anti-neuroinflammatory effect of Astragaloside IV (ASI) has been reported, but its underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study is further to explore the underlying mechanism of ASI on anti-neuroinflammatory effect in LPS induced microglia cells. The result showed ASI significantly reduced the production of inflammatory mediators NO, TNF-α and IL-6 in BV2 and primary microglial cells. Western blot analysis showed ASI did not inhibit the MAPK activation, on the contrary, the results showed ASI can obviously induce the ERK activation. We also examined the NRF2 and HO-1 activation which were reported to exert anti-neuroinflammatory effect and the results presented it could induce the activation of HO-1 downstream NRF2 in BV2 microglial cells. Further study indicated the NRF2/HO-1 activation via ERK pathway activation. After NRF2 siRNA or HO-1 inhibitor treatment, the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of ASI was attenuated obviously compared with the normal group. Taken together, this study demonstrated that the activation of NRF2/HO-1 via ERK signaling pathway is a novel mechanism of ASI which exerted anti-neuroinflammatory activity in microglia cells, it could be an attractive candidate for the regulation of inflammatory responses in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congjin Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Fanglin Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dongbo Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ankang Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi, China
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23
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Effects of Artesunate prevent nephritis via the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway in rats. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:6389-6395. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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24
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Yan F, Wang H, Gao Y, Xu J, Zheng W. Artemisinin Protects Retinal Neuronal Cells against Oxidative Stress and Restores Rat Retinal Physiological Function from Light Exposed Damage. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1713-1723. [PMID: 28447781 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of severe visual loss and blindness in the aging population which lacks any effective treatments currently. In this study, artemisinin, a well-known antimalarial drug was found to suppress hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cell death in retinal neuronal RGC-5 cells. Artemisinin, in the therapeutically relevant dosage, concentration-dependently attenuated the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased cell apoptosis in RGC-5 cells induced by H2O2. Western blot analysis showed that artemisinin upregulated the phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) and reversed the inhibitory effect of H2O2 on the phosphorylation of these two kinases. Moreover, protective effect of artemisinin was blocked by the p38 kinase inhibitor PD169316 or ERK1/2 kinase pathway inhibitor PD98059, respectively. In contrast, c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor and rapamycin had no effect in the protective effect of artemisinin. Taken together, these results demonstrated that artemisinin promoted the survival of RGC-5 cells from H2O2 toxicity via the activation of the p38 and ERK1/2 pathways. Interestingly, intravitreous injection of artimisinin, concentration-dependently reversed light exposed-damage (a dry AMD animal model) of rat retinal physiological function detected by flash electroretinogram. These results indicate that artemisinin can protect retinal neuronal functions from H2O2-induced damage in vitro and in vivo and suggest the potential application of artemisinin as a new drug in the treatment of retinal disorders like AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengxia Yan
- Faculty
of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
- The
First Affiliated Hospital and Neuroparmacology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Faculty
of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
- School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Zhongshan
Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiangping Xu
- School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wenhua Zheng
- Faculty
of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
- The
First Affiliated Hospital and Neuroparmacology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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25
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3H-1,2-Dithiole-3-thione as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of ischemic stroke through Nrf2 defense pathway. Brain Behav Immun 2017; 62:180-192. [PMID: 28132764 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral ischemic stroke accounts for more than 80% of all stroke cases. During cerebral ischemia, reactive oxygen species produced in brain tissue induce oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. D3T, the simplest compound of the cyclic, sulfur-containing dithiolethiones, is found in cruciferous vegetables and has been reported to induce antioxidant genes and glutathione biosynthesis through activation of Nrf2. In addition to antioxidant activity, D3T was also reported to possess anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of D3T for the treatment of ischemic stroke and investigated the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of D3T in ischemic stroke. Mice subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (tMCAO/R) were administered with vehicle or D3T to evaluate the effect of D3T in cerebral brain injury. We observed D3T reduced infarct size, decreased brain edema, lessened blood-brain barrier disruption, and ameliorated neurological deficits. Further investigation revealed D3T suppressed microglia (MG) activation and inhibited peripheral inflammatory immune cell infiltration of CNS in the ischemic brain. The protective effect of D3T in ischemic stroke is mediated through Nrf2 induction as D3T-attenuated brain injury was abolished in Nrf2 deficient mice subjected to tMCAO/R. In addition, in vitro results indicate the induction of Nrf2 by D3T is required for its suppressive effect on MG activation and cytokine production. In summary, we demonstrate for the first time that D3T confers protection against ischemic stroke, which is mediated through suppression of MG activation and inhibition of CNS peripheral cell infiltration, and that the protective effect of D3T in ischemic stroke is dependent on the activation of Nrf2.
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26
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Zeng Z, Xu J, Zheng W. Artemisinin protects PC12 cells against β-amyloid-induced apoptosis through activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Redox Biol 2017; 12:625-633. [PMID: 28391183 PMCID: PMC5385605 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence displays that an abnormal deposition of amyloid beta-peptide (Aβ) is the primary cause of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). And therefore the elimination of Aβ is regarded as an important strategy for AD treatment. The discovery of drug candidates using culture neuronal cells against Aβ peptide toxicity is believed to be an effective approach to develop drug for the treatment of AD patients. We have previously showed that artemisinin, a FDA-approved anti-malaria drug, has neuroprotective effects recently. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanism of artemisinin in protecting neuronal PC12 cells from toxicity of β amyloid peptide. Our studies revealed that artemisinin, in clinical relevant concentration, protected and rescued PC12 cells from Aβ25–35-induced cell death. Further study showed that artemisinin significantly ameliorated cell death due to Aβ25–35 insult by restoring abnormal changes in nuclear morphology, lactate dehydrogenase, intracellular ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential and activity of apoptotic caspase. Western blotting analysis demonstrated that artemisinin activated extracellular regulated kinase ERK1/2 but not Akt survival signaling. Consistent with the role of ERK1/2, preincubation of cells with ERK1/2 pathway inhibitor PD98059 blocked the effect of artemisinin while PI3K inhibitor LY294002 has no effect. Moreover, Aβ1-42 also caused cells death of PC12 cells while artemisinin suppressed Aβ1-42 cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. Taken together, these results, at the first time, suggest that artemisinin is a potential protectant against β amyloid insult through activation of the ERK1/2 pathway. Our finding provides a potential application of artemisinin in prevention and treatment of AD. β-amyloid induced apoptosis in PC12 cells. Artemisinin protected PC12 cells against β-amyloid-induced apoptosis. Artemisinin activated ERK1/2 signaling pathway in PC12 cells. Artemisinin protected PC12 cells against β-amyloid toxicity by ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwen Zeng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Jinying Xu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wenhua Zheng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.
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The Potential Therapeutic Effects of Artesunate on Stroke and Other Central Nervous System Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:1489050. [PMID: 28116289 PMCID: PMC5223005 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1489050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Artesunate is an important agent for cerebral malaria and all kinds of other severe malaria because it is highly efficient, lowly toxic, and well-tolerated. Loads of research pointed out that it had widespread pharmacological activities such as antiparasites, antitumor, anti-inflammation, antimicrobes activities. As we know, the occurrence and development of neurological disorders usually refer to intricate pathophysiologic mechanisms and multiple etiopathogenesis. Recent progress has also demonstrated that drugs with single mechanism and serious side-effects are not likely the candidates for treatment of the neurological disorders. Therefore, the pluripotent action of artesunate may result in it playing an important role in the prevention and treatment of these neurological disorders. This review provides an overview of primary pharmacological mechanism of artesunate and its potential therapeutic effects on neurological disorders. Meanwhile, we also briefly summarize the primary mechanisms of artemisinin and its derivatives. We hope that, with the evidence presented in this review, the effect of artesunate in prevention and curing for neurological disorders can be further explored and studied in the foreseeable future.
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Wang-Sheng C, Jie A, Jian-Jun L, Lan H, Zeng-Bao X, Chang-Qing L. Piperine attenuates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses in BV2 microglia. Int Immunopharmacol 2016; 42:44-48. [PMID: 27875748 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Piperine, the chief alkaloid isolated from Piper nigrum, has been known to have anti-inflammatory effect. However, the effects of piperine on neuroinflammation have not been reported. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of piperine on neuroinflammation in BV2 microglia and investigated the molecular mechanism. The results showed that piperine significantly inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and PGE2 production in BV2 cells. Western blot analysis showed that piperine dose-dependently inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation. Furthermore, piperine was found to amplify the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 up-regulated by LPS. In addition, the inhibition of inflammatory mediators by piperine can be reversed by transfection with Nrf2 siRNA. In conclusion, piperine inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory response by activating Nrf2 signaling pathway. These results indicated that piperine may be a promising agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang-Sheng
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou 570311, China.
| | - An Jie
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Li Jian-Jun
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou 570311, China
| | - Hong Lan
- Department of Gynecology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou 570311, China
| | - Xing Zeng-Bao
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou 570311, China
| | - Li Chang-Qing
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou 570311, China
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Wu YB, Zhang L, Li WT, Yang Y, Zhao JM. Artesunate restores spatial learning of rats with hepatic encephalopathy by inhibiting ammonia-induced oxidative damage in neurons and dysfunction of glutamate signaling in astroglial cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 84:972-978. [PMID: 27764760 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.09.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artesunate (ART) is an antimalarial drug with potential anti-inflammatory effect. This study aimed to explore the potential protective role of ART in hepatic encephalopathy (HE), involving its function against ammonia toxicity. METHODS HE rats were induced by the administration of thioacetamide (TAA, 300mg/kg/day). Spatial learning ability was tested in both Morris water and eight-arm radial maze. Rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) were prepared for ammonia treatment in vitro, in line with SH-SY5Y and C6 cells. ART was administrated at 50 or 100mg/kg/day in vivo or added at 50 or 100μM in vitro. Oxidative damages were evaluated by the changes of cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and glutathione (GSH) content, while glutamate uptake and release, and the activities of glutamine synthetase (GS) and Na+K+-ATPase were measured to indicate the dysfunction of glutamate signaling. RESULTS Decreased escape latency and increased numbers of working errors were observed in TAA-induced HE rats, which could be significantly restored by ART at a dosage-dependent manner. Decreased cell viability and GSH content and increased ROS accumulation were detected in ammonia-treated SH-SY5Y and CGNs, while ammonia-treated C6 cells showed reduced glutamate uptake, increased glutamate release, and decrease of GSH content, GS and Na+K+-ATPase activity. In contrast, ART, especially at 100μM, strongly reversed all changes induced by ammonia, showing a similar dosage-dependent manner in vitro. CONCLUSION This study revealed a new neuroprotective role of ART in the pathogenesis of HE, by protecting neurons and astroglial cells from ammonia-induced damages and dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Bo Wu
- Department of Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, HeFei 230001, Anhui Province, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, HeFei 230001, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wen-Ting Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, HeFei 230001, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, HeFei 230001, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jiang-Ming Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, HeFei 230001, Anhui Province, China.
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Reid BG, Stratton MS, Bowers S, Cavasin MA, Demos-Davies KM, Susano I, McKinsey TA. Discovery of novel small molecule inhibitors of cardiac hypertrophy using high throughput, high content imaging. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2016; 97:106-13. [PMID: 27130278 PMCID: PMC5002372 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2016.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic cardiac hypertrophy is maladaptive and contributes to the pathogenesis of heart failure. The objective of this study was to identify small molecule inhibitors of pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. High content screening was performed with primary neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) cultured on 96-well plates and treated with a library of 3241 distinct small molecules. Non-toxic hit compounds that blocked hypertrophy in response to phenylephrine (PE) and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) were identified based on their ability to reduce cell size and inhibit expression of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), which is a biomarker of pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Many of the hit compounds are existing drugs that have not previously been evaluated for benefit in the setting of cardiovascular disease. One such compound, the anti-malarial drug artesunate, blocked left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and improved cardiac function in adult mice subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). These findings demonstrate that phenotypic screening with primary cardiomyocytes can be used to discover anti-hypertrophic lead compounds for heart failure drug discovery. Using annotated libraries of compounds with known selectivity profiles, this screening methodology also facilitates chemical biological dissection of signaling networks that control pathological growth of the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian G Reid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Matthew S Stratton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States; Department of Medicine, Consortium for Fibrosis Research and Translation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Samantha Bowers
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Maria A Cavasin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States; Department of Medicine, Consortium for Fibrosis Research and Translation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Kimberley M Demos-Davies
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Isidro Susano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Timothy A McKinsey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States; Department of Medicine, Consortium for Fibrosis Research and Translation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, United States.
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Jiang S, Deng C, Lv J, Fan C, Hu W, Di S, Yan X, Ma Z, Liang Z, Yang Y. Nrf2 Weaves an Elaborate Network of Neuroprotection Against Stroke. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:1440-1455. [PMID: 26846360 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-9707-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a neuroprotective transcription factor that has recently attracted increased attention. Stroke, a common and serious neurological disease, is currently a leading cause of death in the USA so far. It is therefore of vital importance to explore how Nrf2 behaves in stroke. In this review, we first introduce the structural features of Nrf2 and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and briefly depict the activation, inactivation, and regulation processes of the Nrf2 pathway. Next, we discuss the physiopathological mechanisms, upstream modulators, and downstream targets of the Nrf2 pathway. Following this background, we expand our discussion to the roles of Nrf2 in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and provide several potential future directions. The information presented here may be useful in the design of future experimental research and increase the likelihood of using Nrf2 as a therapeutic target for stroke in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jiang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,Department of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710032, China
| | - Chao Deng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jianjun Lv
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Chongxi Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Shouyin Di
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zhenxing Liang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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32
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Okorji UP, Velagapudi R, El-Bakoush A, Fiebich BL, Olajide OA. Antimalarial Drug Artemether Inhibits Neuroinflammation in BV2 Microglia Through Nrf2-Dependent Mechanisms. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:6426-6443. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9543-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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33
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Ravindra KC, Ho WE, Cheng C, Godoy LC, Wishnok JS, Ong CN, Wong WSF, Wogan GN, Tannenbaum SR. Untargeted Proteomics and Systems-Based Mechanistic Investigation of Artesunate in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Chem Res Toxicol 2015; 28:1903-13. [PMID: 26340163 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.5b00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The antimalarial drug artesunate is a semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin, the principal active component of a medicinal plant Artemisia annua. It is hypothesized to attenuate allergic asthma via inhibition of multiple signaling pathways. We used a comprehensive approach to elucidate the mechanism of action of artesunate by designing a novel biotinylated dihydroartemisinin (BDHA) to identify cellular protein targets of this anti-inflammatory drug. By adopting an untargeted proteomics approach, we demonstrated that artesunate may exert its protective anti-inflammatory effects via direct interaction with multiple proteins, most importantly with a number of mitochondrial enzymes related to glucose and energy metabolism, along with mRNA and gene expression, ribosomal regulation, stress responses, and structural proteins. In addition, the modulatory effects of artesunate on various cellular transcription factors were investigated using a transcription factor array, which revealed that artesunate can simultaneously modulate multiple nuclear transcription factors related to several major pro- and anti-inflammatory signaling cascades in human bronchial epithelial cells. Artesunate significantly enhanced nuclear levels of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a key promoter of antioxidant mechanisms, which is inhibited by the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). Our results demonstrate that, like other electrophilic Nrf2 regulators, artesunate activates this system via direct molecular interaction/modification of Keap1, freeing Nrf2 for transcriptional activity. Altogether, the molecular interactions and modulation of nuclear transcription factors provide invaluable insights into the broad pharmacological actions of artesunate in inflammatory lung diseases and related inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodihalli C Ravindra
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Wanxing Eugene Ho
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore , Singapore 119228.,Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) , Singapore 138602
| | - Chang Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Singapore General Hospital , Singapore 169608.,Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore 119228
| | - Luiz C Godoy
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - John S Wishnok
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Choon Nam Ong
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore , Singapore 119228
| | - W S Fred Wong
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore 119228
| | - Gerald N Wogan
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Steven R Tannenbaum
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States.,Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) , Singapore 138602
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Lai L, Chen Y, Tian X, Li X, Zhang X, Lei J, Bi Y, Fang B, Song X. Artesunate alleviates hepatic fibrosis induced by multiple pathogenic factors and inflammation through the inhibition of LPS/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 765:234-41. [PMID: 26318197 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The current study was performed in order to explore the effect of artesunate (Art) on experimental hepatic fibrosis and the potential mechanism involved. Art, a water-soluble hemisuccinate derivative of artemisinin extracted from the Chinese herb Artemisia Annua, is a safe and effective antimalarial drug. Hepatic fibrosis was induced in SD rats by multiple pathogenic factors. Rats were treated concurrently with Art (28.8 mg/kg) given daily by oral gavage for 6 or 8 weeks to evaluate its protective effects. Our data demonstrated that Art treatment obviously attenuated hepatic fibrosis, characterized by less inflammatory infiltration and accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Art remarkably decreased endotoxin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels as well. Art significantly downregulated protein and mRNA expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). Art also significantly inhibited the nuclear transcription factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65) translocation into the nucleus. In addition, there were no remarkable differences between the N group and the NA group. In conclusion, we found that Art could alleviate hepatic fibrosis induced by multiple pathogenic factors and inflammation through the inhibition of LPS/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in rats, suggesting that Art may be a potential candidate for the therapy of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Lai
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Yunxia Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Xiaoxia Tian
- Department of Pathophysiology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Xujiong Li
- Department of Physiology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Jingwen Lei
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Yanghui Bi
- Undergraduate of Clinical Medicine Department, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Buwu Fang
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Medical University, TianJin 300070, China
| | - Xiaoliang Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China.
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35
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Artesunate Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Proinflammatory Responses by Suppressing TLR4, MyD88 Expression, and NF-κB Activation in Microglial Cells. Inflammation 2015; 38:1925-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s10753-015-0172-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Ivanescu B, Miron A, Corciova A. Sesquiterpene Lactones from Artemisia Genus: Biological Activities and Methods of Analysis. JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL METHODS IN CHEMISTRY 2015; 2015:247685. [PMID: 26495156 PMCID: PMC4606394 DOI: 10.1155/2015/247685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Sesquiterpene lactones are a large group of natural compounds, found primarily in plants of Asteraceae family, with over 5000 structures reported to date. Within this family, genus Artemisia is very well represented, having approximately 500 species characterized by the presence of eudesmanolides and guaianolides, especially highly oxygenated ones, and rarely of germacranolides. Sesquiterpene lactones exhibit a wide range of biological activities, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiulcer, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, and insect deterrent. Many of the biological activities are attributed to the α-methylene-γ-lactone group in their molecule which reacts through a Michael-addition with free sulfhydryl or amino groups in proteins and alkylates them. Due to the fact that most sesquiterpene lactones are thermolabile, less volatile compounds, they present no specific chromophores in the molecule and are sensitive to acidic and basic mediums, and their identification and quantification represent a difficult task for the analyst. Another problematic aspect is represented by the complexity of vegetal samples, which may contain compounds that can interfere with the analysis. Therefore, this paper proposes an overview of the methods used for the identification and quantification of sesquiterpene lactones found in Artemisia genus, as well as the optimal conditions for their extraction and separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Ivanescu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700150 Iasi, Romania
- *Bianca Ivanescu:
| | - Anca Miron
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700150 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreia Corciova
- Department of Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700150 Iasi, Romania
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37
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Artesunate inhibits proliferation of naïve CD4+ T cells but enhances function of effector T cells. Arch Pharm Res 2014; 38:1195-203. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-014-0491-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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38
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Okorji UP, Olajide OA. A semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, artesunate inhibits prostaglandin E2 production in LPS/IFNγ-activated BV2 microglia. Bioorg Med Chem 2014; 22:4726-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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39
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Protective effect of Artemisia annua L. extract against galactose-induced oxidative stress in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101486. [PMID: 24988450 PMCID: PMC4079707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisia annua L. (also called qinghao) has been well known as a source of antimalarial drug artemisinins. In addition, the herb was reported to have in vitro antioxidative activity. The present study investigated the protective effect of aqueous ethanol extract of Qinghao (AA extract) against D-galactose-induced oxidative stress in C57BL/6J mice. Feeding AA extract-containing diet lowered serum levels of malondialdehyde and 8-OH-dG that are biomarkers for lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, respectively. Furthermore, AA extract feeding enhanced the activity of NQO1, a typical antioxidant marker enzyme, in tissues such as kidney, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. In conclusion, AA extract was found to have antioxidative activity in mouse model.
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Li T, Wang H, Ding Y, Zhou M, Zhou X, Zhang X, Ding K, He J, Lu X, Xu J, Wei W. Genetic elimination of Nrf2 aggravates secondary complications except for vasospasm after experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage in mice. Brain Res 2014; 1558:90-9. [PMID: 24576487 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key endogenous protective regulator in the body. This study aimed to explore the role of Nrf2 in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)-induced secondary complications. Wild type (WT) and Nrf2 knockout (KO) mice were subjected to experimental SAH by injecting fresh autologous blood into pre-chiasmatic cistern. The absence of Nrf2 function in mice resulted in exacerbated brain injury with increased brain edema, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, neural apoptosis, and severe neurological deficits at 24h after SAH. Moreover, cerebral vasospasm was severe at 24h after SAH, but not significantly different between WT and Nrf2 KO mice after SAH. Meanwhile, Molondialdehyde (MDA) was increased and GSH/GSSG ratio was decreased in Nrf2 KO mice after SAH. Furthermore, higher expression of TNF-α and IL-1β was also found after SAH in Nrf2 KO mice. In conclusion, our results revealed that Nrf2 plays an important role in attenuating SAH-induced secondary complications by regulating excessive oxidative stress and inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210089, PR China; Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Handong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China.
| | - Yu Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210089, PR China
| | - Mengliang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Xiaoming Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Xiangshen Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Ke Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Jin He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Neurosurgical Institution of People's Liberation Army of China, PR China
| | - Xinyu Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210089, PR China
| | - Jianguo Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210089, PR China
| | - Wuting Wei
- Neurosurgery Department of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, PR China
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Li Z, Hu H, Lin R, Mao J, Zhu X, Hong Z, Tao J, Zhang Y, Chen L. Neuroprotective effects of Gua Lou Gui Zhi decoction against glutamate-induced apoptosis in BV-2 cells. Int J Mol Med 2013; 33:597-604. [PMID: 24378639 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2013.1612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Gua Lou Gui Zhi decoction (GLGZD), a traditional Chinese medicine consisting of different herbal medicines, has been used for centuries in the treatment of muscular spasticity following stroke, epilepsy or spinal cord injury. However, the precise mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of GLGZD on glutamate-induced apoptosis in cultured BV-2 cells, as well as the underlying mechanisms. A 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was applied to assess the viability of the cells. An Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) assay was utilized to analyze cellular apoptosis. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was evaluated by flow cytometry and laser scanning confocal microscopy. The gene and protein expression of the apoptosis-related genes, Bcl-2 and Bax, was analyzed by RT-PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Furthermore, the expression of cleaved caspase-3 protein was detected by immunofluorescence. Glutamate treatment induced the loss of BV-2 cell viability, which was associated with an increase in the apoptotic rate, as well as an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and the extracellular levels of cleaved caspase-3. Treatment with GLGZD significantly reversed these phenotypes, with its maximum protective effects observed at the concentration of 1,000 µg/ml. These results indicate that GLGZD protects BV-2 cells from glutamate-induced cytotoxicity. These protective effects may be ascribed to its anti-apoptotic activities, in part, associated with the decrease in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 expression, as well as with the stability of high mitochondrial membrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuanfang Li
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Haixia Hu
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Ruhui Lin
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Jingjie Mao
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqin Zhu
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Zhenfeng Hong
- Fujian Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Jing Tao
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Yun Zhang
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
| | - Lidian Chen
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, P.R. China
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42
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Miranda AS, Brant F, Rocha NP, Cisalpino D, Rodrigues DH, Souza DG, Machado FS, Rachid MA, Teixeira AL, Campos AC. Further evidence for an anti-inflammatory role of artesunate in experimental cerebral malaria. Malar J 2013; 12:388. [PMID: 24180288 PMCID: PMC3827003 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral malaria (CM) is a clinical syndrome resulting from Plasmodium falciparum infection. A wide range of clinical manifestations follow the disease including cognitive dysfunction, seizures and coma. CM pathogenesis remains incompletely understood and without treatment this condition is invariably fatal. Artesunate has been accepted as the most effective drug for treating severe malaria. Besides its antiparasitic activity, an anti-inflammatory property has also been reported. In the current study, the immunomodulatory role of artesunate was investigated using a Plasmodium berghei ANKA model of CM, trough evaluation of behavioural changes and cytokines expression in hippocampus and in frontal cortex. METHODS C57Bl/6 mice were infected with P. berghei by intraperitoneal route, using a standardized inoculation of 106 parasitized erythrocytes. Memory function was evaluated using the step-down inhibitory avoidance test. The mRNA expression of IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of control and infected mice on day 5 post-infection were estimated by quantitative real time PCR. Plasmodium berghei -infected mice also received intraperitoneally a single dose of artesunate (32 mg/kg) on day 4 post-infection, and 24 hours after treatment behavioural and immunological analysis were performed. The protein levels of cytokines IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, IFN-γ, TNF in the serum, frontal cortex and hippocampus of controls and P. berghei -infected mice treated or not treated with artesunate were determined using a cytometric bead array (CBA) kit. The survival and neurological symptoms of CM were also registered. RESULTS CM mice presented a significant impairment of aversive memory compared to controls on day 5 post-infection. A higher mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was found in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of infected mice. A single dose of artesunate was also able to decrease the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of P. berghei-infected mice. In parallel, a significant improvement in neurological symptoms and survival were observed in artesunate treated mice. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the current study provided further evidence that CM affects key brain areas related to cognition process. In addition, different patterns of cytokine expression during the course of CM could be modulated by a single administration of the anti-malarial artesunate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline S Miranda
- Programme in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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43
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Chang CY, Kuan YH, Li JR, Chen WY, Ou YC, Pan HC, Liao SL, Raung SL, Chang CJ, Chen CJ. Docosahexaenoic acid reduces cellular inflammatory response following permanent focal cerebral ischemia in rats. J Nutr Biochem 2013; 24:2127-37. [PMID: 24139673 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cellular inflammatory response plays an important role in ischemic brain injury and anti-inflammatory treatments in stroke are beneficial. Dietary supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) shows anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects against ischemic stroke. However, its effectiveness and its precise modes of neuroprotective action remain incompletely understood. This study provides evidence of an alternative target for DHA and sheds light on the mechanism of its physiological benefits. We report a global inhibitory effect of 3 consecutive days of DHA preadministration on circulating and intracerebral cellular inflammatory responses in a rat model of permanent cerebral ischemia. DHA exhibited a neuroprotective effect against ischemic deficits by reduction of behavioral disturbance, brain infarction, edema and blood-brain barrier disruption. The results of enzymatic assay, Western blot, real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometric analysis revealed that DHA reduced central macrophages/microglia activation, leukocyte infiltration and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and peripheral leukocyte activation after cerebral ischemia. In parallel with these immunosuppressive phenomena, DHA attenuated post-stroke oxidative stress, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, c-Jun phosphorylation and activating protein-1 (AP-1) activation but further elevated ischemia-induced NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression. DHA treatment also had an immunosuppressive effect in lipopolysaccharide/interferon-γ-stimulated glial cultures by attenuating JNK phosphorylation, c-Jun phosphorylation and AP-1 activation and augmenting Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. In summary, we have shown that DHA exhibited neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects against ischemic brain injury and these effects were accompanied by decreased oxidative stress and JNK/AP-1 signaling as well as enhanced Nrf2/HO-1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yi Chang
- Department of Surgery, Fong Yuan Hospital, Taichung 420, Taiwan
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44
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Kao TK, Chang CY, Ou YC, Chen WY, Kuan YH, Pan HC, Liao SL, Li GZ, Chen CJ. Tetramethylpyrazine reduces cellular inflammatory response following permanent focal cerebral ischemia in rats. Exp Neurol 2013; 247:188-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2013.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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45
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Sarina, Yagi Y, Nakano O, Hashimoto T, Kimura K, Asakawa Y, Zhong M, Narimatsu S, Gohda E. Induction of neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells by artemisinin through activation of ERK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Brain Res 2012; 1490:61-71. [PMID: 23123209 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.10.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Growth of neurite processes is a critical step in neuronal development, regeneration, differentiation, and response to injury. The discovery of compounds that can stimulate neurite formation would be important for developing new therapeutics against both neurodegenerative disorders and trauma-induced neuronal injuries. Semisynthetic derivatives of artemisinin, an active compound in Artemisia annua, have been effectively used in malaria treatment, but they have been shown to possess neurotoxic potential. In this study, we found unexpectedly that artemisinin and its derivatives induced neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells. Artemisinins containing an endoperoxide bridge such as artemisinin and dihydroartemisinin induced growth of neurite processes at concentrations that were slightly cytotoxic, artemisinin having the most potent maximal effect among them. Deoxyartemisinin, which lacks the endoperoxide bridge, was ineffective. Artemisinin-treated cells expressed increased levels of the neuronal marker β(III)-tubulin. Artemisinin upregulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), critical signaling molecules in neuronal differentiation. Consistent with activation of the two MAPKs, neurite outgrowth induced by artemisinin was inhibited by the MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitor PD98059 and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Artemisinin also induced phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) that was almost completely attenuated by PD98059 but not by SB203580. Taken together, our results indicate that artemisinin and its derivatives containing the endoperoxide bridge induced differentiation of PC12 cells toward a neuronal phenotype and suggest that both activation of ERK signaling pathway, which leads to CREB phosphorylation, and activation of p38 MAPK signaling pathway are involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarina
- Department of Immunochemistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
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Gibson CJ, Hossain MM, Richardson JR, Aleksunes LM. Inflammatory regulation of ATP binding cassette efflux transporter expression and function in microglia. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2012; 343:650-60. [PMID: 22942241 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.112.196543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette (ABC) efflux transporters, including multidrug resistance protein 1 (Mdr1), breast cancer resistance protein (Bcrp), and multidrug resistance-associated proteins (Mrps) extrude chemicals from the brain. Although ABC transporters are critical for blood-brain barrier integrity, less attention has been placed on the regulation of these proteins in brain parenchymal cells such as microglia. Prior studies demonstrate that inflammation after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment alters transporter expression in the livers of mice. Here, we sought to determine the effects of inflammation on the expression and function of transporters in microglia. To test this, the expression and function of ABC efflux transport proteins were quantified in mouse BV-2 microglial cells in response to activation with LPS. Intracellular retention of fluorescent rhodamine 123, Hoechst 33342, and calcein acetoxymethyl ester was increased in LPS-treated microglia, suggesting that the functions of Mdr1, Bcrp, and Mrps were decreased, respectively. LPS reduced Mdr1, Bcrp, and Mrp4 mRNA and protein expression between 40 and 70%. Conversely, LPS increased expression of Mrp1 and Mrp5 mRNA and protein. Immunofluorescent staining confirmed reduced Bcrp and Mrp4 and elevated Mrp1 and Mrp5 protein in activated microglia. Pharmacological inhibition of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) transcriptional signaling attenuated down-regulation of Mdr1a mRNA and potentiated up-regulation of Mrp5 mRNA in LPS-treated cells. Together, these data suggest that LPS stimulates microglia and impairs efflux of prototypical ABC transporter substrates by altering mRNA and protein expression, in part through NF-κB signaling. Decreased transporter efflux function in microglia may lead to the retention of toxic chemicals and aberrant cell-cell communication during neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Gibson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Development of artemisinin compounds for cancer treatment. Invest New Drugs 2012; 31:230-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s10637-012-9873-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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