Isorhamnetin and hyperoside derived from water dropwort inhibits inflammasome activation

Effects of Natural Products through Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress on Attenuation of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

With ever-increasing intensive studies of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), significant progresses have been made. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)/unfolded protein reaction (UPR) is associated with the development and progression of IPF, and targeting ERS/UPR may be beneficial in the treatment of IPF. Natural product is a tremendous source of new drug discovery, and accumulating studies have reported that many natural products show potential therapeutic effects for IPF via modulating one or more branches of the ERS signaling pathway. Therefore, this review focuses on critical roles of ERS in IPF development, and summarizes herbal preparations and bioactive compounds which protect against IPF through regulating ERS.

Moringa oleifera and Its Biochemical Compounds: Potential Multi-targeted Therapeutic Agents Against COVID-19 and Associated Cancer Progression

The Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global concern, with updated pharmacological therapeutic strategies needed. Cancer patients have been found to be more susceptible to severe COVID-19 and death, and COVID-19 can also lead to cancer progression. Traditional medicinal plants have long been used as anti-infection and anti-inflammatory agents, and Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) is one such plant containing natural products such as kaempferol, quercetin, and hesperetin, which can reduce inflammatory responses and complications associated with viral infections and multiple cancers. This review article explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of M. oleifera as an anti-COVID-19 and anti-inflammatory agent, and its potential role in reducing the risk of cancer progression in cancer patients with COVID-19. The article discusses the ability of M. oleifera to modulate NF-κB, MAPK, mTOR, NLRP3 inflammasome, and other inflammatory pathways, as well as the polyphenols and flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, that contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, this review highlights the potential therapeutic benefits of M. oleifera in addressing COVID-19 and associated cancer progression. However, further investigations are necessary to fully understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of M. oleifera and its natural products as anti-inflammatory, anti-COVID-19, and anti-cancer strategies.

Emerging Therapeutic Potential of Polyphenols from Geranium sanguineum L. in Viral Infections, Including SARS-CoV-2

The existing literature supports the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral capacities of the polyphenol extracts derived from Geranium sanguineum L. These extracts exhibit potential in hindering viral replication by inhibiting enzymes like DNA polymerase and reverse transcriptase. The antiviral properties of G. sanguineum L. seem to complement its immunomodulatory effects, contributing to infection resolution. While preclinical studies on G. sanguineum L. suggest its potential effectiveness against COVID-19, there is still a lack of clinical evidence. Therefore, the polyphenols extracted from this herb warrant further investigation as a potential alternative for preventing and treating COVID-19 infections.

Cucumber mosaic virus-induced gene and microRNA silencing in water dropwort (Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC)

Water dropwort (Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC), an aquatic perennial plant from the Apiaceae family, rich in dietary fibert, vitamins, and minerals. It usually grows in wet soils and water. Despite accumulating the transcriptomic data, gene function research on water dropwort is still far behind than that of the other crops. The cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) induced gene silencing was established to study the functions of gene and microRNA (miRNA) in the water dropwort. CMV Fast New York strain (CMV-Fny) genomic RNAs 1, 2, and 3 were individually cloned into pCB301 vectors. We deleted part of the ORF 2b region and introduced recognition sites. A CMV-induced gene silencing vector was employed to suppress the expression of endogenous genes, including phytoene desaturase (PDS). In order to assess the efficacy of gene silencing, we also cloned conserved sequence of gibberellin insensitive dwarf (GID1) cDNA sequences into the vector and inoculated the water dropwort. The height of CMV-GID1-infected plants was marginally reduced as a result of GID1 gene silencing, and their leaves were noticeably longer and thinner. Additionally, we also used a CMV-induced silencing vector to analyze the roles of endogenous miRNAs. We used a short tandem target mimic approach to clone miR319 and miR396 from water dropwort into the CMV vector. Plants with CMV-miRNA infection were driven to exhibit the distinctive phenotypes. We anticipate that functional genomic research on water dropwort will be facilitated by the CMV-induced gene silencing technique.

Isorhamnetin as a novel inhibitor of pneumolysin against Streptococcus pneumoniae infection in vivo/in vitro

The increasing incidence of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) infection severely threatened the global public heath, causing a significant fatality in immunocompromised hosts. Notably, pneumolysin (PLY) as a pore-forming cytolysin plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pneumococcal pneumonia and lung injury. In this study, a natural flavonoid isorhamnetin was identified as a PLY inhibition to suppress PLY-induced hemolysis by engaging the predicted residues and attenuate cytolysin PLY-mediated A549 cells injury. Underlying mechanisms revealed that PLY inhibitor isorhamnetin further contributed to decrease the formation of bacterial biofilms without affecting the expression of PLY. In vivo S. pneumoniae infection confirmed that the pathological injury of lung tissue evoked by S. pneumoniae was ameliorated by isorhamnetin treatment. Collectively, these results presented that isorhamnetin could inhibit the biological activity of PLY, thus reducing the pathogenicity of S. pneumoniae. In summary, our study laid a foundation for the feasible anti-virulence strategy targeting PLY, and provided a promising PLY inhibitor for the treatment of S. pneumoniae infection.

NLRP3 inhibitors: Unleashing their therapeutic potential against inflammatory diseases

The NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been linked to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and is essential for innate defence against infection and danger signals. These secreted cytokines improve the inflammatory response caused by tissue damage and associated inflammation. Consequently, the development of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors are viable option for the treatment of diverse inflammatory disorders. The significant anti-inflammatory effects of the NLRP3 inhibitors have severe side effects. Hence, the application of NLRP3 inhibitors against inflammatory disease has not yet been understood and most of the developed inhibitors are unsuccessful in clinical trials. The processes behind the NLRP3 complex, priming, and activation are the main emphasis of this review, which also covers therapeutical inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome and potential therapeutic strategies for directing the NLRP3 inflammasome towards clinical development.

Hyperoside prevents doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting NOXs/ROS/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway

Clinical application of doxorubicin (Dox) in cancer chemotherapy is limited by its cardiotoxicity. Present study aimed to demonstrate the effect and mechanism of hyperoside in Dox-induced cardiotoxicity. C57BL/6 mice were injected with 12 mg/kg of Dox, and 1 μM Dox was exposed to primary cardiomyocytes. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiographic and myocardial enzyme levels. Cardiomyocyts apoptosis was analyzed by TUNEL staining and flow cytometry. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized to explore potential targets of hyperoside. Protein expressions were detected by western blot and enzyme activities were determined by colorimetry. Cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by Dox were attenuated by hyperoside. Mechanism of hyperoside was mainly related to "oxidative stress" pathway. Hyperoside exhibited strong binding activities with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (NOXs, the main source of ROS in cardiomyocytes) and cyclooxygenases (COXs). Experiments proved that hyperoside suppressed the ROS generation and the elevated activities of NOXs and COXs induced by Dox. Dox also triggered the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, which was reversed by hyperoside. Hyperoside bound to NOXs and COXs, which prevents Dox-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting NOXs/ROS/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway. Hyperoside holds promise as a therapeutic strategy for Dox-induced cardiotoxicity.

Integrated morphological, metabolome, and transcriptome analyses revealed the mechanism of exogenous gibberellin promoting petiole elongation in Oenanthe javanica

Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC. is a popular vegetable with unique flavor and its leaf is the main product organ. Gibberellin (GA) is an important plant hormone that plays vital roles in regulating the growth of plants. In this study, the plants of water dropwort were treated with different concentrations of GA₃. The plant height of water dropwort was significantly increased after GA₃ treatment. Anatomical structure analysis indicated that the cell length of water dropwort was elongated under exogenous application of GA₃. The metabolome analysis showed flavonoids were the most abundant metabolites and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites were also regulated by GA₃. The exogenous application of GA₃ altered the gene expressions of plant hormone signal transduction (GID and DELLA) and metabolites biosynthesis pathways to regulate the growth of water dropwort. The GA contents were modulated by up-regulating the expression of GA metabolism gene GA2ox. The differentially expressed genes related to cell wall formation were significantly enriched. A total of 22 cellulose synthase involved in cellulose biosynthesis were identified from the genome of water dropwort. Our results indicated that GA treatment promoted the cell elongation by inducing the expression of cellulose synthase and cell wall formation in water dropwort. These results revealed the molecular mechanism of GA-mediated cell elongation, which will provide valuable reference for using GA to regulate the growth of water dropwort.

Hyperoside Nanomicelles Alleviate Atherosclerosis by Modulating the Lipid Profile and Intestinal Flora Structure in High-Fat-Diet-Fed Apolipoprotein-E-Deficient Mice

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a serious threat to human health and the main pathological basis of cardiovascular disease. Hyperoside (Hyp), a flavonoid found mainly in traditional Chinese herbs, can exert antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular-protective effects. Herein, we prepared hybrid nanomicelles (HFT) comprising Hyp loaded into pluronic F-127 and polyethylene glycol 1000 vitamin E succinate and assessed their effects on AS. To establish an AS model, apolipoprotein-E-deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice were fed a high-fat diet. We then analyzed the effects of HFT on AS-induced changes in aortic tissues and metabolic markers, simultaneously assessing changes in gut flora community structure. In mice with AS, HFT significantly reduced the aortic plaque area; decreased levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, inflammatory factors, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS); increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, endothelial NOS, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione levels; and promoted the proliferation of beneficial gut bacteria. HFT could regulate intestinal flora structure and lipid metabolism and inhibit inflammatory responses. These beneficial effects may be mediated by inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B signal activation, reducing inflammatory factor expression and improving gut microflora structure and dyslipidemia. The present study provides an empirical basis for the development and clinical application of new dosage forms of Hyp.

Beneficial effects of flavonoids on cardiovascular diseases by influencing NLRP3 inflammasome

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality and have a high incidence rate worldwide. The function of inflammasomes in CVDs has received a lot of attention recently, and the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome may be a new target for the prevention and treatment of CVDs. Flavonoids, which are found in food and plant extracts, inhibited inflammation in CVDs by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome. CB-Dock was used to investigate whether 34 flavonoids from natural products acted on NLRP3 inflammasome. In brief, the PDB format of NLRP3 was selected as a protein file, and 34 flavonoids in SDF format were selected as the ligand file, and then input to CB-Dock for molecular docking. The docking results showed that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), amentoflavone, baicalin, scutellarin, vitexin, silibinin, and puerarin had good binding affinities to NLRP3, which could be used as NLRP3 inhibitors, and aid in the discovery of lead compounds for the design and development of CVDs.

JC2-11, a benzylideneacetophenone derivative, attenuates inflammasome activation

Dysregulation of inflammasome activation induces chronic and excess inflammation resulting in several disorders, such as metabolic disorders and cancers. Thus, screening for its regulator derived from natural materials has been conducted progressively. JC2-11 (JC) was designed to enhance the antioxidant activity based on a chalcone, which is abundant in edible plants and a precursor of flavonoids. This study examined the effects of JC on inflammasome activation in human and murine macrophages. JC inhibited the secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and lactate dehydrogenases, and the cleavage of caspase-1 and gasdermin D in response to the tested activators (i.e., NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, and non-canonical inflammasome triggers). In addition, JC attenuated IL-1β secretion from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-injected mice, an inflammasome-mediating disease model. Mechanistically, JC blocked the expression of the inflammasome components during the priming step of the inflammasome, and interrupted the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. In addition, JC inhibited the activity of caspase-1. In conclusion, JC may be a candidate pan-inflammasome inhibitor.

Oenanthe javanica Ethanolic Extract Alleviates Inflammation and Modifies Gut Microbiota in Mice with DSS-Induced Colitis

Oenanthe javanica, commonly known as water dropwort, has long been used to treat acute and chronic hepatitis, abdominal pain, alcohol hangovers, and inflammation in various traditional medicine systems in Asia. However, whether O. javanica has beneficial effects on colitis-induced intestinal damage remains elusive. This study tested the hypothesis that O. javanica has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. First, treatment of O. javanica ethanol extract (OJE) inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-affected macrophages. Second, in mice with DSS-induced colitis, OJE administration reduced pathological damage to the colon while alleviating weight gain and decreasing colon length, including inflammation and mucosal necrosis. In addition, OJE significantly (p < 0.01) restricted the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators and increased the expression of Nrf2-phase 2 antioxidant enzymes. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing workflows for taxonomic assignment analysis confirmed that the diversity (richness and evenness) of fecal microbiota was markedly elevated in the OJE group. OJE administration reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria including Escherichia and increased the abundance of the genus Muribaculum. These results suggested that OJE exerts beneficial effects on inflammation and gut microbial composition in a mouse model of colitis.

Therapeutic potential of dietary flavonoid hyperoside against non-communicable diseases: targeting underlying properties of diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a global epidemic with diverse pathogenesis. Among them, oxidative stress and inflammation are the most fundamental co-morbid features. Therefore, multi-targets and multi-pathways therapies with significant anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are potential effective measures for preventing and treating NCDs. The flavonol glycoside compound hyperoside (Hyp) is widely found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, beverages, and medicinal plants and has various health benefits, especially excellent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties targeting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis associated with oxidative stress and inflammation in NCDs and the biological activity and therapeutic potential of Hyp. Our findings reveal that the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities regulated by Hyp are associated with numerous biological mechanisms, including positive regulation of mitochondrial function, apoptosis, autophagy, and higher-level biological damage activities. Hyp is thought to be beneficial against organ injuries, cancer, depression, diabetes, and osteoporosis, and is a potent anti-NCDs agent. Additionally, the sources, bioavailability, pharmacy, and safety of Hyp have been established, highlighting the potential to develop Hyp into dietary supplements and nutraceuticals.

Polyphenols, flavonoids and inflammasomes: the role of cigarette smoke in COPD

COPD is predicted to become the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide by 2030. Cigarette smoking (active or passive) is one of its chief causes, with about 20% of cigarette smokers developing COPD from cigarette smoke (CS)-induced irreversible damage and sustained inflammation of the airway epithelium. Inflammasome activation leads to the cleavage of pro-interleukin (IL)-1β and pro-IL-18, along with the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines via gasdermin D N-terminal fragment membrane pores, which further triggers acute phase pro-inflammatory responses and concurrent pyroptosis. There is currently intense interest in the role of nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing protein-3 inflammasomes in chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as COPD and their potential for therapeutic targeting. Phytochemicals including polyphenols and flavonoids have phyto-medicinal benefits in CS-COPD. Here, we review published articles from the last decade regarding the known associations between inflammasome-mediated responses and ameliorations in pre-clinical manifestations of CS-COPD via polyphenol and flavonoid treatment, with a focus on the underlying mechanistic insights. This article will potentially assist the development of drugs for the prevention and therapy of COPD, particularly in cigarette smokers.

This review compiles current investigations into the role of polyphenols/flavonoids in the alleviation of cigarette smoke-induced inflammasome; notably it provides a promising hit for rectifying the treatment of COPD.https://bit.ly/36OcUO9

A Novel Antiviral Protein Derived from Oenanthe javanica: Type I Interferon-Dependent Antiviral Signaling and Its Pharmacological Potential

Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins produced in plants play a crucial role in self-defense against microbial attacks. Previously, we have identified a novel PR-1-like protein (OPRP) from Oenanthe javanica and examined its pharmacologic relevance and cell signaling in mammalian cells. Purified full-length OPRP protein significantly increased toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-dependent expression levels of genes such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and CD80. We also found that small peptides (OPRP2 and OPRP3) designed from OPRP remarkably upregulated myxovirus resistance (Mx1), 2′-5′ oligoadenylate sythetase (OAS), and interferon (IFN) α/β genes in mouse splenocytes as well as human epithelial cells. Notably, OPRP protein distinctively activated STAT1 phosphorylation and ISGF-3γ. Interestingly, OPRP2 and OPRP3 were internalized to the cytoplasm and triggered dimerization of STAT1/STAT2, followed by upregulation of type I IFN-dependent antiviral cytokines. Moreover, OPRP1 successfully inhibited viral (Pseudo SARS-CoV-2) entry into host cells. Taken together, we conclude that OPRP and its small peptides (OPRP1 to 3) present a new therapeutic intervention for modulating innate immune activity through type I IFN-dependent antiviral signaling and a new therapeutic approach that drives an antiviral state in non-immune cells by producing antiviral cytokines.

Korean Red Ginseng, a regulator of NLRP3 inflammasome, in the COVID-19 pandemic

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exhibits various symptoms, ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia or death. The major features of patients in severe COVID-19 are the dysregulation of cytokine secretion, pneumonia, and acute lung injury. Consequently, it leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, multiple organ failure, and death. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative virus of COVID-19, influences nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), the sensor of inflammasomes, directly or indirectly, culminating in the assembly of NLRP3 inflammasome and activation of inflammatory caspases, which induce the inflammatory disruption in severe COVID-19. Accordingly, the target therapeutics for inflammasome has attracted attention as a treatment for COVID-19. Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) inhibits several inflammatory responses, including the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. This review discusses the role of KRG in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 based on its anti-NLRP3 inflammasome efficacy.

Integrative Analysis of Long- and Short-Read Transcriptomes Identify the Regulation of Terpenoids Biosynthesis Under Shading Cultivation in Oenanthe javanica

Water dropwort (Oenanthe javanica) is a popular vegetable with high nutritional value and distinctive flavor. The flavor is mainly correlate with the biosynthesis of terpenoids. Shading cultivation was used to improve the flavor in the production of water dropwort. However, the changes of terpenoids and the genes involved in terpenoids biosynthesis under shading treatment remains unclear. In this study, the long- and short-reads transcriptomes of water dropwort were constructed. In total, 57,743 non-redundant high-quality transcripts were obtained from the transcriptome. 28,514 SSRs were identified from non-redundant transcripts and the mono-nucleotide repeats were the most abundant SSRs. The lncRNAs of water dropwort were recognized and their target genes were predicted. The volatile compound contents in petioles and leaf blades of water dropwort were decreased after the shading treatment. The DEGs analysis was performed to identify the terpenoids biosynthesis genes. The results indicated that 5,288 DEGs were differentially expressed in petiole, of which 22 DEGs were enriched in the terpenoids backbone biosynthesis pathway. A total of 12 DEGs in terpenoids biosynthesis pathway were selected and further verified by qRT-PCR assay, demonstrating that the terpenoids biosynthesis genes were down-regulated under shading treatment. Here, the full-length transcriptome was constructed and the regulatory genes related to terpenoids biosynthesis in water dropwort were also investigated. These results will provide useful information for future researches on functional genomics and terpenoids biosynthesis mechanism in water dropwort.

Therapeutic Potential of Isorhamnetin following Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity through Targeting NLRP3/NF-κB/Nrf2

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) is the principal cause of acute liver failure (ALF) in some countries including the United States and with few available treatments. Isorhamnetin is a bioflavonoid that is found in medicinal plants like Hippophae rhamnoides L. and Ginkgo biloba L. with promising potential to regulate inflammatory responses. In this study, we evaluated the possible effect of isorhamnetin in prevention of APAP-induced ALI and analyzed further the involvement of oxidative stress and inflammation-associated factors. Male C57BL/6 mice were given isorhamnetin (25 or 100 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) three times at 48, 24, and 1 h before APAP administration (300 mg/kg b.w., i.p.). Functional indicators of liver injury were measured as well as analysis of oxidative stress- and inflammation-associated indices and liver histopathology was also conducted. Isorhamnetin at the higher dose of 100 mg/kg significantly lowered serum levels of ALT, ALP, and AST in addition to reduction of ROS, TBARS, IL-6, TNFα, NF-kB, NLRP3, caspase 1, and MPO and significantly prevented reduction of GSH, SOD activity, sirtuin 1, and Nrf2. Additionally, isorhamnetin alleviated pathological changes of the liver tissue and suitably reversed NF-kB and Nrf2 immunoreactivity. These findings show protective effect of isorhamnetin against acetaminophen-induced liver injury through reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and pyroptosis which is attributed to its regulation of NF-kB, Nrf2, NLRP3, and sirtuin 1.

Combined Metabolome and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal the Flavonoids Changes and Biosynthesis Mechanisms in Different Organs of Hibiseu manihot L

Hibiseu manihot L. (Jinhuakui, JHK), also known as a garden landscape plant, is widely cultivated as a landscape plant having pharmacological effects due to its high flavonoids content. Although flavonoids were the main active pharmaceutical ingredients in JHK, little information was obtained about the content, composition, and accumulation pattern of flavonoids in different tissues. Most studies only identified a few kinds of flavonoids in JHK limited by separation and identification problems. Therefore, combined metabolome and transcriptome analysis was performed to explore the accumulation patterns and biosynthesis mechanisms of flavonoids in JHK. In this study, we identified 160 flavonoids in 15 samples of JHK (flower, leaf, root, stem, and seeds) by using LC-MS/MS. Consistent with the total flavonoid content determination, these flavonoids were significantly accumulated in flowers, followed by leaves, stems, roots, and seeds. Among them, certain flavonoids, with high content, were also identified for the first time in JHK, such as tricetin, catechin, hesperidin, ncyanidin-3-O-sambubioside, astragalin, procyanidin B2/B3/C1, apigenin-5-O-glucoside, etc. Different tissues underwent significantly reprogramming of their transcriptomes and metabolites changes in JHK, particularly in the flavonoid, flavone, and flavonol biosynthesis pathways. We conducted a correlation analysis between RNA-seq and LC-MS/MS to identify the key genes and related flavonoids compounds, rebuild the gene-metabolites regulatory subnetworks, and then identified 15 key genes highly related to flavonoids accumulation in JHK. These key genes might play a fine regulatory role in flavonoids biosynthesis by affecting the gene expression level in different organs of JHK. Our results could be helpful for the improvement of the market/industrial utilization value of different parts of JHK, to pave the way for the regulatory mechanism research of flavonoids biosynthesis, and provide insight for studying the production quality improvement of JHK.

Traditional Knowledge to Contemporary Medication in the Treatment of Infectious Disease Dengue: A Review

Dengue has become a worldwide affliction despite incessant efforts to search for a cure for this long-lived disease. Optimistic consequences for dengue vaccine are implausible as the efficiency is tied to previous dengue virus (DENV) exposure and a very high cost is required for large-scale production of vaccine. Medicinal plants are idyllic substitutes to fight DENV infection since they constitute important components of traditional medicine and show antiviral properties, although the mechanism behind the action of bioactive compounds to obstruct viral replication is less explored and yet to be discovered. This review includes the existing traditional knowledge on how DENV infects and multiplies in the host cells, conscripting different medicinal plants that obtained bioactive compounds with anti-dengue properties, and the probable mechanism on how bioactive compounds modulate the host immune system during DENV infection. Moreover, different plant species having such bioactive compounds reported for anti-DENV efficiency should be validated scientifically via different in vitro and in vivo studies.

Hyperoside suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome in Parkinson's disease via Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide

NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-induced neuroinflammation is the main pathogenic mechanism of dopaminergic (DA) neuron degeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD). Hyperoside (quercetin-3-O-β-D-galactoside), an active compound obtained from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Abelmoschus manihot, is a potential inflammasome inhibitor. Besides, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activated peptide (PACAP) is an endogenous neuropeptide with neuroprotective effects in various neurodegenerative diseases, such as PD. This study aimed to explore the effects of hyperoside on inflammasome-induced neuroinflammation, and its relationship with PACAP in PD. N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) was used to induce PD-like lesions in mice. Behavioral methods, including the pole test and rotarod test, were used to evaluate the hyperoside effects on MPTP-induced motor dysfunction. Immunohistochemistry was done to detect the loss of DA neurons and activation of glia in the substantia nigra compacta (SNpc). Besides, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect pro-inflammatory cytokines and Western blotting to detect the inflammasome components. PACAP 6-38, a non-irritating competitive antagonist of PACAP, was used to explore the anti-inflammation mechanism of hyperoside. The results showed that hyperoside inhibited the activation of glia and reduced the secretion of inflammatory factors, protecting DA neurons and reversing the motor dysfunction caused by MPTP. Hyperoside also inhibited the inflammasome activation by reducing the expression of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspases recruitment domain (ASC), and caspase-1 and increased PACAP content and CREB phosphorylation in the SNpc of the mice. PACAP 6-38 reversed the inhibitory effect of hyperoside on the microglia proliferation and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. These results indicate that hyperoside can inhibit the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by up-regulating PACAP, thus effectively inhibiting MPTP-induced neuroinflammation and protecting DA neurons. Therefore, hyperoside can be used to treat PD.

Phytochemical Composition, Anti-Inflammatory and ER Stress-Reducing Potential of Sambucus ebulus L. Fruit Extract

Sambucus ebulus L. (SE) fruits are used for their immunostimulation, hematopoietic and antiviral potential. Recently, we focused on analyzing the mechanism underlying SE fruit aqueous extract's (FAE) immunomodulation and anti-inflammatory activities, with attention to its endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-reducing potential. J774A.1 macrophages were treated with SE FAE alone or in conditions of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation. Using GC-MS and LC-MS/MS, its phytochemical composition was analyzed. To measure transcription and protein levels, we used qPCR and Western blot, respectively. The prevailing phytochemicals in SE FAE were hydroxycinnamic acids, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins. The content of some amino acids, organic acids, alcohols, fatty acids and esters were newly reported. Extracts exerted an immunostimulation potential by stimulating IL-6, TNFα, Ccl2, COX2 and iNOS transcription, without inducing ER stress. SE FAE suppressed the LPS-induced transcription of inflammation related genes (IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, Ccl2, Icam-1, Fabp4, COX2, iNOS, Noxo1, IL-1ra, Sirt-1) and reduced the protein levels of iNOS, peIF2α, ATF6α and CHOP. The effects were comparable to that of salicylic acid. SE suppresses LPS-stimulated inflammatory markers on the transcription and translation levels. Targeting ER stress is possibly another mechanism underlying its anti-inflammatory potential. These findings reveal the potential of SE fruits as a beneficial therapeutic of inflammation and ER stress-related pathological conditions.

Promise of the NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitors in In Vivo Disease Models

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain NOD-like receptors (NLRs) are conserved cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that track the intracellular milieu for the existence of infection, disease-causing microbes, as well as metabolic distresses. The NLRP3 inflammasome agglomerates are consequent to sensing a wide spectrum of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Certain members of the NLR family have been documented to lump into multimolecular conglomerates called inflammasomes, which are inherently linked to stimulation of the cysteine protease caspase-1. Following activation, caspase-1 severs the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 to their biologically active forms, with consequent commencement of caspase-1-associated pyroptosis. This type of cell death by pyroptosis epitomizes a leading pathway of inflammation. Accumulating scientific documentation has recorded overstimulation of NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor protein 3) inflammasome involvement in a wide array of inflammatory conditions. IL-1β is an archetypic inflammatory cytokine implicated in multiple types of inflammatory maladies. Approaches to impede IL-1β's actions are possible, and their therapeutic effects have been clinically demonstrated; nevertheless, such strategies are associated with certain constraints. For instance, treatments that focus on systemically negating IL-1β (i.e., anakinra, rilonacept, and canakinumab) have been reported to result in an escalated peril of infections. Therefore, given the therapeutic promise of an NLRP3 inhibitor, the concerted escalated venture of the scientific sorority in the advancement of small molecules focusing on direct NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition is quite predictable.

Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) as a target for Alzheimer's disease: flavonoids and phenols

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by amyloid plaques and tangles that have become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide. Previous studies have found that thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) expression was increased during the development of AD neurons. TXNIP separates from the TXNIP-thioredoxin complex, and the TXNIP-NLRP3 complex assembles ASC and pro-caspase-1 to form the NLRP3 inflammasome, which triggers AD inflammation and apoptosis. CB-dock was used to explore whether 21 natural flavonoids and phenols target TXNIP based on references. Docking results showed that rutin, puerarin, baicalin, luteolin and quercetin are the most potent TXNIP inhibitors, and among them, rutin as the most effective flavonoid. And rosmarinic acid is the most potent TXNIP inhibitor of phenols. These phytochemicals could be helpful to find the lead compounds in designing and developing novel agents for Alzheimer's disease.

Anti-inflammatory potential of Quercetin in COVID-19 treatment

SARS-CoV-2 is a betacoronavirus causing severe inflammatory pneumonia, so that excessive inflammation is considered a risk factor for the disease. According to reports, cytokine storm is strongly responsible for death in such patients. Some of the consequences of severe inflammation and cytokine storms include acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute lung injury, and multiple organ dysfunction syndromes. Phylogenetic findings show more similarity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with bat coronaviruses, and less with SARS-CoV. Quercetin is a carbohydrate-free flavonoid that is the most abundant flavonoid in vegetables and fruits and has been the most studied to determine the biological effects of flavonoids. Inflammasomes are cytosolic multi-protein complexes assembling in response to cytosolic PAMP and DAMPs, whose function is to generate active forms of cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Activation or inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome is affected by regulators such as TXNIP, SIRT1 and NRF2. Quercetin suppresses the NLRP3 inflammasome by affecting these regulators. Quercetin, as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and inflammatory compound, is probably a potential treatment for severe inflammation and one of the main life-threatening conditions in patients with COVID-19.

Isorhamnetin Enhances the Radiosensitivity of A549 Cells Through Interleukin-13 and the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Isorhamnetin (ISO), a naturally occurring plant flavonoid, is widely used as a phytomedicine. The major treatment modality for non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is radiotherapy. However, radiotherapy can induce radioresistance in cancer cells, thereby resulting in a poor response rate. Our results demonstrated that pretreatment with ISO induced radiosensitizing effect in A549 cells using colony formation, micronucleus, and γH2AX foci assays. In addition, ISO pretreatment significantly enhanced the radiation-induced incidence of apoptosis, the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, and the expressions of proteins associated with cellular apoptosis and suppressed the upregulation of NF-κBp65 induced by irradiation in A549 cells. Interestingly, the expression of interleukin-13 (IL-13), an anti-inflammatory cytokine, was positively correlated with the ISO-mediated radiosensitization of A549 cells. The knockdown of IL-13 expression by RNA interference decreased the IL-13 level and thus reduced ISO-mediated radiosensitivity in cells. We also found that the IR-induced NF-κB signaling activation was inhibited by ISO pretreatment, and it was abrogated in IL-13 silenced cells. We speculated that ISO may confer radiosensitivity on A549 cells via increasing the expression of IL-13 and inhibiting the activation of NF-κB. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating the effects of ISO treatment on the responsiveness of lung cancer cells to irradiation through IL-13 and the NF-κB signaling pathway. In summary, ISO is a naturally occurring radiosensitizer with a potential application in adjuvant radiotherapy.

UPLC-MS/MS Method for the Determination of Hyperoside and Application to Pharmacokinetics Study in Rat After Different Administration Routes

A rapid and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method was developed and fully validated for the quantification of hyperoside in rat plasma after intragastric, intraperitoneal and intravenous administration. Geniposide was used as an internal standard, and simple liquid–liquid extraction by ethyl acetate was utilized for to extracting the analytes from the rat plasma samples. Chromatographic separation was carried out on an InfinityLab Poroshell 120EC-C18column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.9-Micro, Agilent technologies, USA). The mobile phase consisted of methanol (A) and water (B) (containing 0.1% acetic acid) at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. A run time of 3 min for each sample made it possible to analyze more than 300 plasma samples per day. The validated linear ranges of hyperoside were 2–1000 ng/mL in rat plasma. The intra-day and inter-day precision were within 2.6–9.3%, and accuracy were ± 8.6%. And the results of recovery and matrix interference studies were well within the accepted variability limits. Finally, this method was fully validated and successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic studies of hyperoside via different administration routes in rats.

Riboflavin, vitamin B2, attenuates NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, and non-canonical inflammasomes by the inhibition of caspase-1 activity

Riboflavin is commonly taken as a nutritional supplement, and it converts to coenzymes during the process of energy production from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Although riboflavin is considered to be an anti-inflammatory vitamin because of its antioxidant properties, the effects of riboflavin on inflammasome have been not reported. Inflammasome, a cytosolic surveillance protein complex, leads to the activation of caspase-1, cytokine maturation, and pyroptosis. In the present study, riboflavin attenuated the indicators of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages, such as the maturation and secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, and caspase-1; the formation of Asc pyroptosome; and the cleavage of gasdermin D. In addition, the oral and peritoneal administration of riboflavin inhibited the peritoneal production of IL-1β and IL-18 in a mouse model. Mechanistically, riboflavin prevented mitochondrial perturbations, such as mitochondrial ROS production and mitochondrial DNA release, which trigger the NLRP3 inflammasome assembly. Riboflavin was further confirmed to disrupt the activity of caspase-1, and it also inhibited the AIM2, NLRC4, and non-canonical inflammasomes. Therefore, riboflavin has both an antioxidant effect and an anti-inflammasome property that regulates the inflammatory response.

Targeting the tumor immune microenvironment with "nutraceuticals": From bench to clinical trials

The occurrence of immune effector cells in the tissue microenvironment during neoplastic progression is critical in determining tumor growth outcomes. On the other hand, tumors may also avoid immune system-mediated elimination by recruiting immunosuppressive leukocytes and soluble factors, which coordinate a tumor microenvironment that counteracts the efficiency of the antitumor immune response. Checkpoint inhibitor therapy results have indicated a way forward via activation of the immune system against cancer. Widespread evidence has shown that different compounds in foods, when administered as purified substances, can act as immunomodulators in humans and animals. Although there is no universally accepted definition of nutraceuticals, the term identifies a wide category of natural compounds that may impact health and disease statuses and includes purified substances from natural sources, plant extracts, dietary supplements, vitamins, phytonutrients, and various products with combinations of functional ingredients. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the immunomodulatory effects of nutraceuticals with a special focus on the cancer microenvironment, highlighting the conceptual benefits or drawbacks and subtle cell-specific effects of nutraceuticals for envisioning future therapies employing nutraceuticals as chemoadjuvants.

Fructose-arginine, a non-saponin molecule of Korean Red Ginseng, attenuates AIM2 inflammasome activation

Background

Korean Red Ginseng extract (RGE) has been reported to act as an inflammasome modulator. Ginsenosides, saponin molecules of RGE, selectively inhibit activation of NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes, while non-saponin molecules of RGE upregulate inflammasome components associated with the initiation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In this study, we investigated the effect of non-saponin components of RGE on AIM2 inflammasome activation.

Methods

The role of non-saponins of RGE on AIM2 inflammasomes was tested in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages, a human monocyte-like cell line, and a mouse animal model. Cells or mice were transfected with dsDNA or inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes to activate AIM2 inflammasomes. Several indices of inflammasome activation were examined via immunoblot or ELISA analysis.

Results

The non-saponin fraction and saponin-eliminating fraction (SEF) of RGE selectively attenuated the activation of AIM2 inflammasomes, but not that of NLRP3 or NLRC4 inflammasomes. Fructose-arginine, an amino-sugar, was shown to be effective against AIM2 inflammasome activation.

Conclusion

Non-saponins of RGE, such as fructose-arginine, might be effective in regulating infectious and autoimmune diseases resulting from AIM2 inflammasome activation.

Nutraceutical Compounds Targeting Inflammasomes in Human Diseases

The macromolecular complex known as "inflammasome" is defined as an intracellular multi-protein complex composed of a sensor receptor (PRR), an adaptor protein and an effector enzyme (caspase-1), which oligomerize when they sense danger, such as how the NLR family, AIM-2 and RIG-1 receptors protect the body against danger via cytokine secretion. Within the NLR members, NLRP3 is the most widely known and studied inflammasome and has been linked to many diseases. Nowadays, people's interest in their lifestyles and nutritional habits is increasing, mainly due to the large number of diseases that seem to be related to both. The term "nutraceutical" has recently emerged as a hybrid term between "nutrition" and "pharmacological" and it refers to a wide range of bioactive compounds contained in food with relevant effects on human health. The relationship between these compounds and diseases based on inflammatory processes has been widely exposed and the compounds stand out as an alternative to the pathological consequences that inflammatory processes may have, beyond their defense and repair action. Against this backdrop, here we review the results of studies using several nutraceutical compounds in common diseases associated with the inflammation and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasomes complex. In general, it was found that there is a wide range of nutraceuticals with effects through different molecular pathways that affect the activation of the inflammasome complex, with positive effects mainly in cardiovascular, neurological diseases, cancer and type 2 diabetes.

Highly Efficient Regioselective Decanoylation of Hyperoside Using Nanobiocatalyst of Fe3O4@PDA-Thermomyces lanuginosus Lipase: Insights of Kinetics and Stability Evaluation

The immobilization of Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase on polydopamine-functionalized Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@PDA-TLL) as a nanobiocatalyst was successfully performed for the first time, and the Fe₃O₄@PDA-TLL was used for regioselective acylation of natural hyperoside with vinyl decanoate. The effects of several crucial factors, such as the reaction solvent, substrate molar ratio, temperature, and immobilized enzyme dosage, were investigated. Under optimum conditions, the reaction rate, 6″-regioselectivity, and maximum substrate conversion were as high as 12.6 mM/h, 100%, and 100%, respectively. An operational stability study demonstrated that the immobilized enzyme could maintain 90.1% of its initial maximum conversion even after reusing it five times. In addition, further investigations on the kinetic parameters, like V_max, K_m, V_max/K_m, and E_a, also revealed that the biocompatible Fe₃O₄@PDA could act as an alternative carrier for the immobilization of different enzymes.

Characterization of equine inflammasomes and their regulation

Inflammasome, a cytosolic multi-protein complex, assembly is a response to sensing intracellular pathogenic and endogenic danger signals followed by caspase-1 activation, which maturates precursor cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β. Most inflammasome research has been undertaken in humans and rodents, and inflammasomes in veterinary species have not been well-characterized. In this study, we observed the effects of well-known inflammasome activators on equine peripheral blood monocytes (PBMCs). The NLRP3 inflammasome triggers include ATP, nigericin, aluminum crystals, and monosodium urate crystals, and NLRP3 activation induces IL-1β secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Activators of NLRC4 and AIM2 inflammasomes include cytosolic flagellin and dsDNA, and their activation induces IL-1β secretion. The bacterial inflammasome triggers Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes also induce IL-β releases. To elucidate the role of potassium efflux as an upstream signal of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, equine PBMCs were treated with blockers of potassium efflux in the presence of NLRP3 triggers. As a result, the IL-1β secretion stemming from equine NLRP3 inflammasome activation was not completely attenuated by the inhibition of potassium efflux. Taken together, the results indicate that equine PBMCs normally secrete IL-1β in response to well-known inflammasome activators, although equine NLRP3 inflammasome activation might not be dependent on potassium efflux.

Natural compounds flavonoids as modulators of inflammasomes in chronic diseases

The use of dietary or medicinal plant based natural compounds to disease treatment has become a unique trend in clinical research. Flavonoids, a group of polyphenolic compounds have drawn significant attention due to their modulatory effects on inflammasomes associated with the initiation and progression of chronic disorders including metabolic, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. In this article, the role of most commonly studied natural flavonoids with their disease-specific impact via inflammasomes as a potential molecular target has been described. Since the role of inflammation is evident in multiple diseases, flavonoids may serve as a promising tool in drug discovery for the intervention of chronic diseases by manipulating the status of inflammation via inflammasome targeting.

IκBζ controls NLRP3 inflammasome activation via upregulation of the Nlrp3 gene

Inflammasome activation induces the maturation and secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and -18, and is dependent on NF-κB signaling to induce the transcription of the inflammasome components, called the priming step. This study elucidated the role of IκBζ, an atypical IκBs (inhibitor of κB) and a coactivator of NF-κB target genes, on the activation of inflammasome. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) that originated from IκBζ-encoding Nfkbiz gene depletion mice presented a defect in NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In addition, the Nfkbiz^+/- and Nfkbiz^-/- mice significantly attenuated serum IL-1β secretion in response to a monosodium urate injection, a NLRP3 trigger, when compared with Nfkbiz^-+/+ mice. The lack of IκBζ in BMDMs produced a disability in the expression of Nlrp3 and pro-Il1β mRNAs during the priming step. In addition, ectopic IκBζ expression enhanced the Nlrp3 promoter activity, and Nlrp3 and pro-Il1β transcription. Overall, IκBζ controlled the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome by upregulating the Nlrp3 gene during the priming step.

Obovatol inhibits NLRP3, AIM2, and non-canonical inflammasome activation

BACKGROUND

Obovatol, a biphenolic chemical originating from Magnolia obovata, has been utilized as a traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Inflammasome induces maturation of inflammatory cytokines in response to intracellular danger signals, and its dysregulation induces inflammatory diseases.

PURPOSE

The effect of obovatol on inflammasome activation has not been reported, although its anti-inflammatory properties have been studied.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

Obovatol was treated to macrophages with inflammasome triggers, and secretions of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, and caspase-1 were measured as readouts of inflammasome activation. In addition, Asc pyroptosome formation, caspase-1 activity, and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were analyzed in mechanical studies. Anti-inflammasome properties of obovatol were confirmed in an animal model.

RESULTS

Obovatol inhibited NLRP3, AIM2, and non-canonical inflammasomes through inhibition of Asc pyroptosome formation and mitochondrial ROS generation. In addition, obovatol disrupted the priming step of inflammasome activation and inhibited transcription of inflammatory cytokines. In mice, obovatol attenuated serum IL-1β elevation in response to monosodium urate crystals.

CONCLUSION

Obovatol is suggested as an inhibitor of NLRP3, AIM2, and non-canonical inflammasomes.

Chemistry and Pharmacology of the Kazakh Crataegus Almaatensis Pojark: An Asian Herbal Medicine

Crataegus almaatensis, an endemic ornamental plant in Kazakhstan is used in popular medicine due to its cardiotonic properties. The most studied species of the same genus are commonly found in Europe, which shows the importance of having the Kazakh species validated via its chemical and pharmacological studies. High-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) operated under optimized conditions enabled an isolation of the three main compounds from the aqueous phase of the leaves ethanol extract, further identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), as quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside (quercitrin) (4.02% of the crude extract-CECa); quercetin 3-O-β-galactoside (hyperoside) (1.82% of CECa); kaempferol 3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (afzelin) (0.94% of CECa). The CECa, the aqueous phase of the crude extract (APCa) together with the isolates were evaluated for their vascular (vascular reactivity in human internal mammary artery-HIMA), anti-nociceptive (formalin-induced liking response and hot plate) and anti-inflammatory (subcutaneous air-pouch model-SAP) activities. CECa at the concentrations of 0.014 and 0.14 mg/mL significantly increased the maximum contractility response of HIMA to noradrenaline. The APCa CR curve (0.007–0.7 mg/mL) showed an intrinsic relaxation effect of the HIMA. APCa at the dose of 100 mg/kg i.p. significantly decreased the total leukocyte count and the IL-1β release in the SAP wash.

Isorhamnetin ameliorates inflammatory responses and articular cartilage damage in the rats of monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis

Context: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease with damage to the articular cartilage. Active production of inflammatory cytokine/chemokine and matrix metalloproteinases may be found during the progression of OA. Isorhamnetin had the effects of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-ischemia, anti-atherosclerotic hepatoprotective and anticancer activities. Objective: Our study was focused on the effects of isorhamnetin treatment in OA. Materials and methods: We used monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rats to evaluate the effects of isorhamnetin related anti-inflammatory process. The rats in all groups were sacrificed on four weeks post-MIA injection. The measurements of knee joint swelling, histological analysis, serum inflammatory biomarkers and western blot were evaluated. Results: We found that isorhamnetin may reduce MIA-induced knee swelling by significantly reduction of articular cartilage damage.in rats. Suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines production was found after isohamnetin treatment. Isorhamnetin inhibited the production of NO and PGE2, and the expression of iNOS and COX-2. The production of COMP, CTX-II and osteopontin (OPN) were also inhibited in MIA-induced OA rats. Discussion and conclusions: Isorhamnetin may modulate the inflammatory progression of OA in MIA-induced OA rats. The prevention of cartilage damage was found in OA after adequate isorhamnetin treatment. Isorhamnetin may serve as a potential agent for the management of OA.

Inhibitory Effects of Phenylpropanoid Derivatives from Oenanthe javanica on Antigen-Stimulated Degranulation in RBL-2H3 Cells

Two diacyldaucic acids (1 and 2), an α,β-unsaturated γ-lactone-type lignan (3) and its derivatives (4-6), and 12 known compounds were isolated from a traditional East Asian vegetable, Oenanthe javanica. The absolute configuration of 1 was validated by obtaining (+)-osbeckic acid through acid hydrolysis. The absolute configurations of 3-5 were determined by comparing their experimental and computed ECD data. The conclusion was supported by applying the phenylglycine methyl ester method to 3. Compound 6 was obtained as an interconverting mixture of isomers in a 3:1 trans- cis ratio. Several water-soluble components (1, 3, and 6) showed concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on antigen-stimulated degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells without producing any direct cytotoxicity against RBL-2H3 or HeLa cells.

Mulinum crassifolium Phil; Two New Mulinanes, Gastroprotective Activity and Metabolomic Analysis by UHPLC-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry

Mulinum crassifolium Phil. (Apiaceae) is an endemic shrub from Chile commonly used as infusion in traditional medicine to treat diabetes, bronchial and intestinal disorders and stomach ailments, including ulcers. From the EtOAc extract of this plant, the new mulinane-type diterpenoids 3 and 5 were isolated along with three known diterpenoids. The gastroprotective effect of the infusion of the plant was assayed to support the traditional use and a fast HPLC analysis using high resolution techniques was performed to identify the bioactive constituents. The EtOAc extract and the edible infusion showed gastroprotective effect at 100 mg/kg in the HCl/EtOH induced gastric ulcer model in mice, reducing lesions by 33% and 74%, respectively. Finally, a metabolomic profiling based on UHPLC-ESI-MS/HRMS of the edible infusion was performed and thirty-five compounds were tentatively identified including quercetin, caffeic acid, apigenine glucoside, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acids, and caffeoylquinic acids, which have been associated previously with gastroprotective and antiulcer properties. This scientific evidence can support the contribution of polyphenols in the gastroprotective activity of the edible infusion of this plant, and can validate at least in part, its ethnopharmacological use.

A Review of Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC. as Traditional Medicinal Plant and Its Therapeutic Potential

Oenanthe javanica, popularly known as water dropwort, has long been used in various ethnomedical systems in Asia, especially in China, Korean, and Japan, for treating various chronic and acute hepatitis, jaundice, alcohol hangovers, abdominal pain, and inflammatory conditions. The present review aims to provide a general report of the available literature on traditional uses, phytochemical, pharmacological, nutritional, and toxicological data related to the O. javanica as a potential source of new compounds with biological activities. Considering phytochemical studies, coumarins, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides, organic acids, and polyphenols were the main classes of compounds identified in the whole plant which were correlated with their biological activities such as hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, immune enhancement, ethanol elimination, antioxidant, antiviral, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anticoagulant, anti-fatigue, hypoglycemic, cardiovascular protection, analgesic, and insecticidal activities.

Molecular structure and spectral characteristics of hyperoside and analysis of its molecular imprinting adsorption properties based on density functional theory

The structure of hyperoside was optimized according to the skeletal types of different galactopyranosides in hyperoside at the DFT/B3LYP/6-31++G(d,p) level, and the frequencies were calculated. The accuracy of the theoretical calculations of the ¹H and ¹³C NMR signals was evaluated by linear correlation. The excited state was calculated via time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). The stable conformation, NMR, UV-vis, natural bond orbital (NBO), molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) and thermodynamic information were obtained. In the most stable conformation of hyperoside, seven intramolecular hydrogen bonds are formed, which affect the imprinting efficiency. The theoretical ¹H and ¹³C NMR results are in good agreement with the experimental results. The B3PW91 function is more suitable than B3LYP for TD-DFT calculations. Combining the UV-vis and NBO analyses, the HOMO→LUMO transition mainly results from the n→π^∗ transition of the phenolic hydroxyl groups and the π→π^∗ transition of the benzene ring on the B ring in ethanol. The HOMO-1→LUMO+1 transition mainly results from the n→π^∗ and π→π^∗ transition on the A ring. The MEP and NBO calculations indicate that the imprinted active sites are mainly located on the carbonyl oxygen atom and the hydroxyl hydrogen atoms. As the temperature increases, the molecular heat capacity, entropy, enthalpy, and activity of the imprinting sites increase. The obtained results provide strong theoretical guidance for hyperoside in the synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymers and separation techniques.

Isorhamnetin alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in BV2 microglia by inactivating NF-κB, blocking the TLR4 pathway and reducing ROS generation

Isorhamnetin, which is a flavonoid predominantly found in fruits and leaves of various plants, including Hippophae rhamnoides L. and Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC, is known to possess various pharmacological effects. However, the anti‑inflammatory potential of isorhamnetin remains poorly studied. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of isorhamnetin against inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑stimulated BV2 microglia. To measure the effects of isorhamnetin on inflammatory mediators and cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, the following methods were used: cell viability assay, griess assay, ELISA, reverse transcriptase‑polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. The results revealed that isorhamnetin significantly suppressed LPS‑induced secretion of pro‑inflammatory mediators, including nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2, without exhibiting significant cytotoxicity. Consistent with these results, isorhamnetin inhibited LPS‑stimulated expression of regulatory enzymes, including inducible NO synthase and cyclooxygenase‑2 in BV2 cells. Isorhamnetin also downregulated LPS‑induced production and expression of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor‑α and interleukin‑1β. The mechanism underlying the anti‑inflammatory effects of isorhamnetin was subsequently evaluated; this flavonoid inhibited the nuclear factor (NF)‑κB signaling pathway by disrupting degradation and phosphorylation of inhibitor κB‑α in the cytoplasm and blocking translocation of NF‑κB p65 into the nucleus. In addition, isorhamnetin effectively suppressed LPS‑induced expression of Toll‑like receptor 4 (TLR4) and myeloid differentiation factor 88. It also suppressed the binding of LPS with TLR4 in BV2 cells. Furthermore, isorhamnetin markedly reduced LPS‑induced generation of ROS in BV2 cells, thus indicating a strong antioxidative effect. Collectively, these results suggested that isorhamnetin may suppress LPS‑mediated inflammatory action in BV2 microglia through inactivating the NF‑κB signaling pathway, antagonizing TLR4 and eliminating ROS accumulation. Further studies are required to fully understand the anti‑inflammatory effects associated with the antioxidant capacity of isorhamnetin; however, the findings of the present study suggested that isorhamnetin may have potential benefits in inhibiting the onset and treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases.

Isorhamnetin protects against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and epithelial-mesenchymal transition

The present study aimed to determine whether isorhamnetin (Isor), a natural antioxidant polyphenol, has antifibrotic effects in a murine model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. A C57 mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis was established by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of bleomycin (3.5 U/kg), and then Isor (10 and 30 mg/kg) was administered intragastrically. The level of fibrosis was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin and Sirius red staining. α-smooth muscle actin and type I collagen levels in lung tissues were determined by western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and related signaling pathways were examined by western blotting and IHC. In vitro, human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) and A549 cells were treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)β1 with or without Isor, and collagen deposition and the expression levels of EMT- and ERS-related genes or proteins were analyzed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The results demonstrated that Isor inhibited bleomycin-induced collagen deposition, reduced type I collagen and α-SMA expression, and alleviated EMT and ERS in vivo. Furthermore, incubation of HBECs and A549 cells with TGFβ1 activated EMT and ERS, and this effect was reversed by Isor. In conclusion, Isor treatment attenuated bleomycin-induced EMT and pulmonary fibrosis and suppressed bleomycin-induced ERS and the activation of PERK signaling.

Mercury and arsenic attenuate canonical and non-canonical NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Exposure to heavy metals can cause several diseases associated with the immune system. Although the effects of heavy metals on production of inflammatory cytokines have been previously studied, the role of heavy metals in inflammasome activation remains poorly studied. The inflammasome is an intracellular multi-protein complex that detects intracellular danger signals, resulting in inflammatory responses such as cytokine maturation and pyroptosis. In this study, we elucidated the effects of four heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and lead (Pb), on the activation of NLRP3, NLRC4, and AIM2 inflammasomes. In our results, mercury and arsenic inhibited interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 secretion resulting from canonical and non-canonical NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages and attenuated elevation of serum IL-1β in response to LPS treatment in mice. In the mechanical studies, mercury interrupted production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, release of mitochondrial DNA, and activity of recombinant caspase-1, whereas arsenic down-regulated expression of promyelocytic leukemia protein. Both mercury and arsenic inhibited Asc pyroptosome formation and gasdermin D cleavage. Thus, we suggest that exposure to mercury and/or arsenic could disrupt inflammasome-mediated inflammatory responses, which might cause unexpected side effects.