Involvement of mitochondria mediated pathways in hepatoprotection conferred by Fumaria parviflora Lam. extract against nimesulide induced apoptosis in vitro

Hepatoprotective effect of date fruit extract against ethanol-induced apoptosis in human hepatoma (HepG2) cells

Ethanol is a well-known hepatotoxic agent and date fruits have been associated with their biological actions. In current study, we have investigated the hepatoprotective potential of DFE on ethanol-induced cellular damages in human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. The hepatoprotective potential was assessed by exposing the HepG2 cells to non-toxic concentrations (15, 30, and 60 μg/mL) of DFE for 24 h; then toxic concentration (500 μM) of ethanol. Our results demonstrated that pretreatment with DFE significantly prohibited ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells. We observed that DFE treatment increased cell viability, reduced LDH leakage, restored cellular morphology, and inhibited caspase-3 enzyme activity in a dose dependent way, induced by ethanol. Further DFE was also effective in restoring the LPO, GSH, and catalase levels towards normal altered by ethanol. Our results also revealed that ethanol-induced ROS generation was significantly inhibited by DFE. The ethanol-induced mRNA expression of apoptotic related genes (p53, caspase-3, caspase-7, Bax, and Bcl-2) were also normalized by pretreatment with DFE. The findings from this study indicated that DFE can significantly protect HepG2 cells against ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity. Our study also provides scientific validation for the traditional use of DFE, aiming to understand its hepatoprotective potential. Altogether, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrated that ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity can be prohibited by the DFE. Thus, DFE has a potential application in nutraceuticals as a therapeutic agent to prevent liver diseases.

Fumaria vaillantii extract protects PC12 cells against neurotoxicity induced by 6-OHDA

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain. Various mechanisms are involved in the incidence of the disease including oxidative stress. Several herbs and natural products may interfere with the oxidative-stress pathway due to their antioxidant effects.

OBJECTIVE

Herein, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective role of F. vaillantii extract on Parkinson's in vitro and in vivo model owing to the presence of the bioactive agents with antioxidant properties.

METHODS

In vitro experments showed that 6-hydroxydopamine could induce toxicity in PC12 cells. The impact of F. vaillantii extract on cell viability was measured by using MTT assay. Nuclear morphological changes were qualitatively evaluated employing Hoechst staining. The antioxidant activity of the extract was determined by ROS and lipid peroxidation assays. Tyrosine hydroxylase protein expression was measured by western blotting in PC12 cells. For in vivo study, movement parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results indicated that 75 µΜ of 6-OHDA induced 50% toxicity in PC12 cells for 24 h. Following post-treatment with F. vaillantii extract (0.1 mg/ml) for 72 h, we observed that the extract effectively prevented cell toxicity induced by 6-OHDA and reduced the apoptotic cell population. Furthermore, the extract attenuated the ROS level, lipid peroxidation and increased protein expression of TH after 72 h of treatment. In addition, oral administration of 300 mg/kg of F. vaillantii extract for 14 days improved locomotor activity, catalepsy, bradykinesia, motor coordination and reduced the apomorphine-caused rotation in 6-OHDA- induced Parkinson's disease-like symptoms in male rats.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests a protective role for the extract of F. vaillantii against oxidative stress-induced cell damage in the PC12 cells exposed to neurotoxin 6-OHDA which was verified in in vivo model by reducing the motor defects induced by 6-OHDA. This extract could be a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention of PD progression.

The therapeutic effect of alcoholic extract of Fumaria parviflora on high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver in rats: an animal experiment

Background and purpose

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing problem with a significant burden. Lifestyle modification is the recommended treatment, but researchers are exploring other options. This study focused on the effects of Fumaria parviflora (FP) extracts on NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet in rats.

Experimental approach

Thirty-five 10-week-old male Wister-Albino rats were divided into seven groups: normal diet control, high fat diet control, high fat diet with oral normal saline gavage, high fat diet with oral Atorvastatin gavage, and three groups receiving high fat diet with FP extract in 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 700 mg/kg.Blood samples of rats were used for the measurement of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).1×1 cm Liver biopsies were taken, stained with Trichrome Stain (Masson) and Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain for evaluation by a pathologist.

Findings/results

Lab results showed that FP extract inhibits weight gain, has positive effects on triglyceride and alkaline phosphatase levels, and reduces hepatocyte ballooning and inflammation in rats.

Conclusion

FP extract may lower liver enzymes and have a positive impact on triglyceride, LDL, and HDL levels in rats with NAFLD.

The effect of Fumaria parviflora on the expression of sexual hormones along with their receptors in testicles of adult rats induced by varicocele

Varicocele (VCL) is a pathological dilation of the venous pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord and is also classified as male factor infertility. The current experiment aimed to examine the protective effect of Fumaria parviflora (FP), as a powerful antioxidant, against reproductive damage induced by VCL. In this experimental study, 32 male rats were randomly allocated into four groups, namely sham (simple laparotomy without additional intervention), FP (healthy rats administered 250 mg/kg FP), VCL + FP (underwent VCL and received 250 mg/kg FP), VCL (underwent VCL without receiving any treatment). The results showed that the number of Sertoli and germ cells were markedly reduced in the VCL group in comparison to the FP-treated and sham groups. The VCl + FP group had significantly higher serum levels of testosterone (T), FSH, and LH hormones than the VCL group. The quality and motility of spermatozoa were reduced in the VCL group compared with other groups (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, our findings demonstrated that the administration of FP considerably enhanced the mRNA levels of CatSper-1 and -2, SF-1, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR (p ≤ 0.05). Based on the obtained results, treatment with FP is capable of preventing testicular dysfunction and elevating the concentration of hormones and some crucial genes, such as CatSper1 and 2, SF-1, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR that contribute to the spermatogenesis process.

Shahatra (F.parviflora Lam)- a comprehensive review of its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

F.parviflora Lam. is a plant widely used in traditional medicine systems like Unani, Ayurveda, and folk medicines in Iraq and Turkey. It is known as Shahatraj in Arabic, which is derived from Shahatra and called Shajaratuddam. In the ancient Unani system, it is called Shajaratuddam. The term derived from Sajarat means tree, and Dam means blood since it has a potent blood purifier property.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review focused on comprehensive, updated information on the F.parviflora Lam. about the traditional uses, phytochemical and pharmacology and provided insights into potential opportunities for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The classical literature of Shahatra for its temperament (Mizaj), medicinal properties and traditional therapeutic uses were gathered from nearly 15 classical Unani books, eight local and foreign books on ethnomedicines and ethnobotany in English. The information of pharmacognosy, phytochemical and pharmacological activities of F.parviflora Lam was collected by browsing the Internet (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley online library, Google Scholar, ResearchGate). The relevant primary sources were probed, analysed, and included in this review. The keywords used to browse were F.parviflora Lam, shahatra, pitpapda, and fine fumitory. Relevant Sources were gathered up to April 2021, and the chemical structures were drawn using Chemsketch software. The species name was checked with http://www.theplantlist.org ("F.parviflora Lam. - The Plant List," n.d.). The materials published in both Urdu and English were included in the review.

RESULTS

F.parviflora Lam was found to possess an excess of bioactive compounds and broad pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, antiprotozoal activity, anthelmintic activity, antidiarrheal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator activities, antidiabetic activity, hepatoprotective activity, anticancer activity (cytotoxicity)of nanoparticle, antipruritic activity, dermatological effect, reproductive effect, anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activity.

CONCLUSION

In this review, the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of F.parviflora were reviewed. It showed a broad scope of application, and its benefits had been extended far beyond the initial conventional uses of its parts. It consists of numerous chemical constituents and reported various pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic activity, hepatoprotective activity, anticancer activity etc. Though it is widely studied using several in-vitro and in-vivo models and tested clinically for skin diseases, several gaps and research priorities have been identified that need to be addressed in the future, such as active ingredients and their mechanism of action applications in immunomodulation and hepatic diseases.

Fumaria parviflora regulates oxidative stress and apoptosis gene expression in the rat model of varicocele induction

Varicocele is one of the leading causes of male infertility in which oxidative stress induces DNA damages in spermatozoa of patients with varicocele. Recent studies indicated that the treatment with antioxidant agents has protective effects against the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our research aimed to evaluate the impact of Fumaria Parviflora (FP) on the varicocele-induced testicular injury. For this purpose, 32 adult male Wistar rats (n = 8 per group) were randomly assigned to four groups as follows: sham group, varicocele group, varicocele treatment group and the control treatment group. The experimental groups daily received FP (250 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. The induction of varicocele was conducted by partial occlusion on the left renal vein. The diameter of seminiferous tubules, Johnsen's score and the epithelium thickness improved in the treated-varicocele group as compared to the varicocele group. FP extract could increase the biochemical parameters including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and also decrease malondialdehyde level in the varicocele group. Furthermore, varicocele markedly increased both mRNA and intensity of Bax, while treatment with FP could alleviate them. We concluded that FP could alleviate varicocele, possibly by lowering oxidative stress and testicular damage.

Diverse alkaloids and biological activities of Fumaria (Papaveraceae): An ethnomedicinal group

Fumaria species, commonly known as fumitory or earth smoke, are considered weeds in many regions. However, several Fumaria species have long been used in folk medicine, such as F. capreolata L., F. densiflora DC., F. indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley, F. officinalis L., F. parviflora Lam., and F. vaillantii Loisel. as well. The ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of 24 Fumaria species have been investigated. Phytochemical studies on Fumaria species revealed the presence of numerous alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids. Phthalideisoquinolines (PTIs), protoberberines, and spirobenzylisoquinolines (SBIs) are the major alkaloids in the genus Fumaria. The plants biosynthesize a diverse group of biologically active isoquinoline alkaloids, and these may help to explain the use of various Fumaria species in folk medicine. Pharmacological studies revealed a broad spectrum of bioactivities such as hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumor activities. We found 159 articles published from 1969-2019 by searching the keyword "Fumaria" using databases such as SciFinder, Google Scholar, and PubMed. Based on our reading of these papers, Fumaria species appear to be a source of bioactive isoquinoline alkaloids and ethnomedicines. The lack of studies on pharmacological mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, quality control, and toxicology are discussed in this review. There is great potential for broader medicinal applications of this genus.

Hepatoprotective effects of Yulangsan flavone against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats

BACKGROUND

Yulangsan flavone (YLSF) was extracted from the root of Millettia pulchra Kurz var-laxior (Dunn) Z. Wei, which has been widely used for liver disease treatment in the Guangxi province of China.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

The study was conducted to demonstrate the hepatoprotective effects of YLSF against CCl₄-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats, meanwhile revealing the potential mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN

Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats of both sexes were randomly divided into two groups: hepatic fibrosis group and normal control (NC) group. The rats in the hepatic fibrosis group were given 1 ml/kg 50% CCl₄ (1:1 mixed with peanut oil), while those in the NC group were given 1 ml/kg normal saline (NS), both via intragastric administration. The established experimental rat model from the hepatic fibrosis group was confirmed by pathological inspection and randomly divided into five groups: three YLSF groups (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg), a colchicine group (0.20 mg/kg) and a model group (10 ml/kg NS). All rats were treated with corresponding drugs or NS once a day for four consecutive weeks. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, blood serum and hepatic tissue were collected.

METHODS

The activities of ALT and AST in the serum and the levels of SOD, MDA, GSH and GSH-Px in hepatic tissue were analysed, the indexes of liver, spleen and thymus were counted, the degree of hepatic injury was examined using HE and Masson staining, and the mRNA expression of Col-1, TIMP-1 and TGF-β1 in hepatic tissues was detected.

RESULTS

Compared with the model group, experimental results showed that YLSF and colchicine could reduce the levels of AST, ALT and MDA, increase the levels of SOD, GSH and GSH-Px, enhance rat survivability, decrease the liver, spleen and thymus index, significantly lessen collagen deposition and tissue damage and down-regulate the mRNA expression of Col-1, TIMP-1 and TGF-β1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirm that YLSF has a certain curative effect on rats with liver fibrosis induced by CCl₄, and its mechanism may include attenuating free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and accelerating extracellular matrix degradation by down-regulating expression of related genes.

Toona sinensis Inhibits Murine Leukemia WEHI-3 Cells and Promotes Immune Response In Vivo

Toona sinensis (TS) is one of the most popular vegetarian dishes in Taiwan. It has been shown to exhibit antioxidant, antiangiogenic, antiatherosclerotic, and anticancer properties. In this study, we demonstrated the ability of aqueous leaf extracts from TS to promote immune responses in BALB/c mice and to exhibit anti-leukemia activity in murine WEHI-3 cells. BALB/c mice were injected intravenously with WEHI-3 cells and then treated orally with TS (50 mg/kg). In vivo study showed that TS treatment reduced liver and spleen enlargement in WEHI-3 bearing mice compared with the untreated group. Furthermore, TS also decreased white blood cells (WBC), indicating inhibition of differentiation of the precursor of macrophages in WEHI-3 bearing mice. Treatment of WEHI-3 cells with TS (0-75 μg/mL for 24 hours) significantly reduced cell viability. Furthermore, TS treatment-induced late apoptosis was confirmed by Annexin-V/PI staining. Western blot analyses revealed that treatment of WEHI-3 cells with TS statistically increased the protein expression level of cytochrome c in the cytoplasm and activates caspase-3. Notably, TS treatment caused a dramatic reduction in Bcl-2 and increase in Bax protein levels. TS may disturb the Bcl-2 and Bax protein ratio and induce apoptosis. This reports confirms the antitumor activity of this nutritious vegetable potentially against leukemia.

Toxicity study of oxalicumone A, derived from a marine-derived fungus Penicillium oxalicum, in cultured renal epithelial cells

Oxalicumone A (POA), a novel dihydrothiophene-condensed chromone, was isolated from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium oxalicum. Previous reports demonstrated that POA exhibits strong activity against human carcinoma cells, thus it has been suggested as a bioactive anticancer agent. To research the toxic effect of POA on cultured normal epithelial human kidney-2 (HK-2) cells and evaluate its clinical safety, cell survival was evaluated by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and apoptosis was evaluated by Hoechst 33258 staining, flow cytometry, caspase-3 activity assay and western blotting. 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescin diacetate and JC-1 dye staining was used to evaluate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), respectively. The results indicated that POA inhibited HK-2 cell growth and promoted apoptosis, by increasing levels of Fas cell surface cell receptor and the B-cell lymphoma 2 associated protein X apoptosis regulator (Bax)/B-cell lymphoma 2 apoptosis regulator (Bcl-2) ratio. POA treatment also induced release of ROS and loss of MMP in HK-2 cells. Compared with untreated control, a significant decrease was also demonstrated in superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione content with POA treatment, accompanied by enhanced release of N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, increased leakage of lactate dehydrogenase, increased malondialdehyde formation and increased release of nitric oxide. In conclusion, the present in vitro study revealed that POA exhibits antiproliferation activity on HK-2 cells, through stimulation of apoptosis and oxidative stress injury, which may be relevant to its clinical application. The present study may, therefore, offer valuable new information regarding the use of POA as a candidate novel antitumor drug for clinical use.

In vitro mechanistic study of endosulfan-induced spermatogenic cell apoptosis in the mouse

To investigate the mechanisms of endosulfan-induced reproductive toxicity, the spermatogenic cell lines (GC-1 spg) of mice were treated with 0, 6, 12, and 24 μg/ml endosulfan for 24 h in vitro. The results showed that endosulfan induced apoptosis as well as oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Reactive oxygen species and damage of mitochondrial structure were considered as major factors to GC-1 spg cells apoptosis. We further examined the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in mitochondria pathway by Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis as well as activities. The results showed that endosulfan significantly improved the expressions of cytochrome c and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein and increased the activities of caspases 9 and 3 as well as the downregulation of the expression of Bcl-2 in GC-1 spg cells. The results suggested that exposure to endosulfan might induce the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells via mitochondria-dependent pathway mediated by oxidative stress resulting in the damage of mitochondrial structure and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Aconitum carmichaelii protects against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity via B-cell lymphoma-2 protein-mediated inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction

We previously reported the clinical profile of processed Aconitum carmichaelii (AC, Aconibal(®)), which included inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2E1 activity in healthy male adults. CYP2E1 is recognized as the enzyme that initiates the cascade of events leading to acetaminophen (APAP)-induced toxicity. However, no studies have characterized its role in APAP-induced hepatic injury. Here, we investigated the protective effects of AC on APAP-induced hepatotoxicity via mitochondrial dysfunction. AC (5-500 μg/mL) significantly inhibited APAP-induced reduction of glutathione. In addition, AC decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein levels (% change 46.63) in mitochondria. Moreover, it increased Bcl-2 (% change 55.39) and cytochrome C levels (% change 38.33) in mitochondria, measured using immunofluorescence or a commercial kit. Furthermore, cell membrane integrity was preserved and nuclear fragmentation inhibited by AC. These results demonstrate that AC protects hepatocytes against APAP-induced toxicity by inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction.

p-Methoxycinnamic acid, an active phenylpropanoid induces mitochondrial mediated apoptosis in HCT-116 human colon adenocarcinoma cell line

Among the eight phytochemicals (dihydrocarveol, sinapic acid, vanillic acid, ethylgallate, myrtenol, transcarveol, p-methoxycinnamic acid, and isoferulic acid) we tested, p-methoxycinnamic acid (p-MCA) [10 μM] showed the most potent in vitro growth inhibition on human colon adenocarcinoma (HCT-116 cells). Antiproliferative activity of p-MCA at 24h was associated with DNA damage, morphological changes and the results were comparable with doxorubicin. p-MCA induced phosphatidylserine translocation, increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl content (PCC) and decreased enzymic antioxidant status (SOD, CAT, GPx) in HCT-116. p-MCA treatment increased the percentage of apoptotic cells, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and triggered cytochrome C release to cytosol. The induction of apoptosis by p-MCA was accompanied by an increase in caspase 3 and caspase 9 activities, increased expression of Bax and decreased expression of Bcl-2. Thus p-MCA induces mitochondria mediated intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in HCT-116 and has potential for treatment and prevention of colon cancer.

Hepatoprotective effects of Yulangsan polysaccharide against nimesulide-induced liver injury in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Yulangsan polysaccharide (YLSPS) is often used in popular folk medicine in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China as a chief ingredient of Millettia pulchra, which is used as a hepatic protection, anti-aging and memory improving agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of polysaccharides from Millettia pulchra Kurz var.laxior (Dunn) (Yulangsan polysaecharide, YLSPS) against nimesulide-induced hepatotoxicities in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Liver injury was induced in mice by administering nimesulide. Simultaneously, YLSPS was administered 2h prior to the administration of nimesulide. Dimethyl diphenyl bicarboxylate (DDB) was used as a reference drug.

RESULTS

Compared with the nimesulide group, YLSPS significantly decreased the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and the content of bilirubin in the serum. The anti-oxidative effect of YLSPS was observed from the increase of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in the liver, both of which were decreased by nimesulide. Moreover, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) was reduced, and histological findings also confirmed the anti-hepatotoxic activity. In addition, YLSPS significantly inhibited proinflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Additionally, YLSPS also enhanced the mitochondrial antioxidant and inhibited dead cells by preventing the down-regulation of Bcl-2, up-regulation and release of Bax along with caspase 9 and 3 activity, confirming the involvement of mitochondria in the nimesulide-induced apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

The protective effect of YLSPS against nimesulide-induced hepatic injury may rely on its ability to reduce oxidative stress and prevent nimesulide-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting critical control points of apoptosis.

Involvement of electron and hydrogen transfers through redox metabolism on activity and toxicity of the nimesulide

An electronic study of nimesulide was performed by using density functional theory calculations. The activities of the six different derivatives were related with electron donating or accepting capacities. All compounds which had nitro moiety had low electron donating and high electron accepting capacities. However, the reduced derivative of nimesulide have more electron donating capacity than other compounds. The highest spin density contribution in nitro and lowest spin density contribution on phenoxyl moieties can be related with preferential metabolism by reduction when compared with the oxidation. The redox behavior between nitro and amino groups can be related with anti-inflammatory mechanism of nimesulide. These results explain the redox influence of nitro moiety on biological metabolism and mechanism of nimesulide.

Naringenin accords hepatoprotection from streptozotocin induced diabetes in vivo by modulating mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptotic signaling cascade

Diabetic complications cause noticeable liver damage, which finally progresses to diabetic hepatopathy. Nutritive antioxidants not only reduce the liver damage, but also prevent it by modulating the release of various proteins involved in apoptotic signaling cascades. This study explores the molecular mechanisms underlying diabetes-induced liver damage and its modulation by naringenin. Antioxidant status, liver & kidney biomarker enzymes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, expression of apoptotic proteins like Bax (bcl-2 associated X), Bcl-2 (b-cell Lymhoma-2), Caspase-3, Caspase-9, AIF (Apoptosis inducing factor) and Endo-G (Endonuclease-G) were studied in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Significant hyperglycemia, disturbed antioxidant status, altered carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, increased ROS and lipid peroxidation; decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and enhanced release of AIF and Endo-G were observed. Hyperglycemia also affected apoptosis and its related genes at both transcriptional and translational level (Caspase-3 & 9, Bax and Bcl-2) in the liver of diabetic rats. Naringenin, a flavonone, exerted anti-hyperglycemic effect and was able to prevent oxidative stress and resultant apoptotic events caused due to diabetes-induced hepatotoxicity. Thus, our study shows, a protective effect of naringenin against diabetes induced liver damage and redox imbalance, which could further be exploited for the management of diabetic hepatopathy.

O-hexadecyl-dextran entrapped berberine nanoparticles abrogate high glucose stress induced apoptosis in primary rat hepatocytes

Nanotized phytochemicals are being explored by researchers for promoting their uptake and effectiveness at lower concentrations. In this study, O-hexadecyl-dextran entrapped berberine chloride nanoparticles (BC-HDD NPs) were prepared, and evaluated for their cytoprotective efficacy in high glucose stressed primary hepatocytes and the results obtained compared with bulk berberine chloride (BBR) treatment. The nanotized formulation treated primary hepatocytes that were exposed to high glucose (40 mM), showed increased viability compared to the bulk BBR treated cells. BC-HDD NPs reduced the ROS generation by ∼ 3.5 fold during co-treatment, prevented GSH depletion by ∼ 1.6 fold, reduced NO formation by ∼ 5 fold and significantly prevented decline in SOD activity in stressed cells. Lipid peroxidation was also prevented by ∼ 1.9 fold in the presence of these NPs confirming the antioxidant capacity of the formulation. High glucose stress increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio followed by mitochondrial depolarization and activation of caspase-9/-3 confirming involvement of mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis in the exposed cells. Co- and post-treatment of BC-HDD NPs prevented depolarization of mitochondrial membrane, reduced Bax/Bcl2 ratio and prevented externalization of phosphatidyl-serine confirming their anti-apoptotic capacity in those cells. Sub-G1 phase apparent in high glucose stressed cells was not seen in BC-HDD NPs treated cells. The present study reveals that BC-HDD NPs at ∼ 20 fold lower concentration are as effective as BBR in preventing high glucose induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial depolarization and downstream events of apoptotic cell death.

Naringenin prevents high glucose-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis involving AIF, Endo-G and caspases

Oxidative stress is implicated in hyperglycemia-induced alterations in cell signaling pathways. We examined the toxicity of high glucose in primary rat hepatocytes and its amelioration by naringenin. Incubation of hepatocytes with 40 mM glucose for 1.5 h exhibited significant decrease in cell viability confirmed by MTT reduction and Alamar blue assay. At the same time primary rat hepatocytes exhibited significant decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential indicating organelle dysfunction. Enhanced translocation of Cyt-c from mitochondria to cytosol and AIF/Endo-G from mitochondria to nucleus, activation of caspase-9/3, DNA damage, and chromatin condensation were observed in glucose-stressed hepatocytes, indicating the involvement of mitochondrial pathway in high glucose-induced apoptosis. Transcript levels of antioxidant enzymes were significantly altered along with corresponding changes in their enzymatic activities. The level of intracellular antioxidant glutathione as well as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities were observed to be significantly decreased in hepatocytes treated with high concentration of glucose. Naringenin, a flavanone, was effective in preventing loss of cell viability, reactive oxygen species generation, and decline in antioxidant defense. Translocation of AIF, Endo-G, and Cyt-c from mitochondria was also inhibited by naringenin in glucose-stressed cells. Messenger RNA expression of anti-apoptotic and apoptotic genes, externalization of phosphatidyl serine, DNA damage, chromatin condensation, and sub-diploid cell population were effectively altered by naringenin indicating its anti-apoptotic potential in vitro. Our data suggests that naringenin can prevent apoptosis induced by high glucose through scavenging of reactive oxygen species and modulation of mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway.

Anticancer effects of 4-vinyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol (canolol) against SGC-7901 human gastric carcinoma cells

Gastric cancer remains the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of canolol on the proliferation and apoptosis of SGC-7901 human gastric cancer cells and its relevant molecular mechanisms. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to observe the effect of canolol on the proliferation of SGC-7901 human gastric adenocarcinoma cells. The results showed that SGC-7901 cells exhibited a marked dose-dependent reduction in the proliferation rate. The survival rate of the cells was 88.86±1.58% at 50 μmol/l, decreasing to 53.73±1.51% at 800 μmol/l (P<0.05). By contrast, canolol had no significant toxicity on the human gastric mucosal epithelial cell line GES-1. The vivid images of cell morphology using an inverted microscope provided confirmation of the MTT assay. Treatment of SGC-7901 cells with canolol resulted in apoptosis demonstrated by flow cytometry. Furthermore, canolol downregulated the mRNA levels of COX-2, but had no significant effect on the mRNA expession of the Bax and Bcl-2 genes. These findings suggest that canolol has potential to be developed as a new natural anti-gastric carcinoma agent.

The prophylactic role of D-saccharic acid-1,4-lactone against hyperglycemia-induced hepatic apoptosis via inhibition of both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways in diabetic rats

Sustained hyperglycemia and increased oxidative stress play major roles in the development of secondary complications in diabetes including liver injury. Dietary supplement of antioxidants is effective in preventing oxidative stress mediated tissue damage in diabetic pathophysiology. D-Saccharic acid 1,4-lactone (DSL), a derivative of D-glucaric acid, is present in many dietary plants and is known for its detoxifying and antioxidant properties. Our early investigation showed that DSL can ameliorate alloxan (ALX) induced diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress in rats by inhibiting pancreatic β-cell apoptosis. In the present study we investigated the protective role of DSL against hepatic dysfunction in ALX induced diabetic rats. ALX exposure elevated the blood glucose, serum ALP and ALT levels, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and disturbed the intra-cellular antioxidant machineries. Oral administration of DSL restored all these alterations close to normal. By investigating the mechanism of its protective activity, we observed that DSL prevented hyperglycemia induced hepatic apoptosis by inhibiting both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Results showed that in the liver tissue, diabetes promoted a significant increase of TNF-α/TNF-R1 and led to the activation of caspase-8 and t-Bid. In addition, ALX exposure reciprocally regulated Bcl-2 family protein expression, disturbed mitochondrial membrane potential, and subsequently released cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol. As a consequence, a significant increase in caspase-3 expression was observed in the liver of diabetic animals. However, treatment of diabetic rats with DSL counteracted these changes, making it a promising approach in lessening diabetes mediated tissue damage.

Protective role of morin, a flavonoid, against high glucose induced oxidative stress mediated apoptosis in primary rat hepatocytes

Apoptosis is an early event of liver damage in diabetes and oxidative stress has been linked to accelerate the apoptosis in hepatocytes. Therefore, the compounds that can scavenge ROS may confer regulatory effects on high-glucose induced apoptosis. In the present study, primary rat hepatocytes were exposed to high concentration (40 mM) of glucose. At this concentration decreased cell viability and enhanced ROS generation was observed. Depleted antioxidant status of hepatocytes under high glucose stress was also observed as evident from transcriptional level and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Further, mitochondrial depolarisation was accompanied by the loss of mitochondrial integrity and altered expression of Bax and Bcl-2. Increased translocation of apoptotic proteins like AIF (Apoptosis inducing factor) & Endo-G (endonuclease-G) from its resident place mitochondria to nucleus was also observed. Cyt-c residing in the inter-membrane space of mitochondria also translocated to cytoplasm. These apoptotic proteins initiated caspase activation, DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation, increased apoptotic DNA content in glucose treated hepatocytes, suggesting mitochondria mediated apoptotic mode of cell death. Morin, a dietary flavonoid from Psidium guajava was effective in increasing the cell viability and decreasing the ROS level. It maintained mitochondrial integrity, inhibited release of apoptotic proteins from mitochondria, prevented DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation and hypodiploid DNA upon exposure to high glucose. This study confirms the capacity of dietary flavonoid Morin in regulating apoptosis induced by high glucose via mitochondrial mediated pathway through intervention of oxidative stress.

Natural terpenes prevent mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and release of apoptotic proteins during nimesulide-hepatotoxicity in rats

Nimesulide, an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug, is reported to cause severe hepatotoxicity. In this study, molecular mechanisms involved in deranged oxidant-antioxidant homeostasis and mitochondrial dysfunction during nimesulide-induced hepatotoxicity and its attenuation by plant derived terpenes, camphene and geraniol has been explored in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Hepatotoxicity due to nimesulide (80 mg/kg BW) was evident from elevated SGPT, SGOT, bilirubin and histo-pathological changes. Antioxidants and key redox enzymes (iNOS, mtNOS, Cu/Zn-SOD, Mn-SOD, GPx and GR) were altered significantly as assessed by their mRNA expression, Immunoblot analysis and enzyme activities. Redox imbalance along with oxidative stress was evident from decreased NAD(P)H and GSH (56% and 74% respectively; P<0.001), increased superoxide and secondary ROS/RNS generation along with oxidative damage to cellular macromolecules. Nimesulide reduced mitochondrial activity, depolarized mitochondria and caused membrane permeability transition (MPT) followed by release of apoptotic proteins (AIF; apoptosis inducing factor, EndoG; endonuclease G, and Cyto c; cytochrome c). It also significantly activated caspase-9 and caspase-3 and increased oxidative DNA damage (level of 8-Oxoguanine glycosylase; P<0.05). A combination of camphene and geraniol (CG; 1∶1), when pre-administered in rats (10 mg/kg BW), accorded protection against nimesulide hepatotoxicity in vivo, as evident from normalized serum biomarkers and histopathology. mRNA expression and activity of key antioxidant and redox enzymes along with oxidative stress were also normalized due to CG pre-treatment. Downstream effects like decreased mitochondrial swelling, inhibition in release of apoptotic proteins, prevention of mitochondrial depolarization along with reduction in oxidized NAD(P)H and increased mitochondrial electron flow further supported protective action of selected terpenes against nimesulide toxicity. Therefore CG, a combination of natural terpenes prevented nimesulide induced cellular damage and ensuing hepatotoxicity.

Role of hesperetin (a natural flavonoid) and its analogue on apoptosis in HT-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cell line--a comparative study

Colon cancer is one of the serious health problems in most developed countries and its incidence rate is increasing in India. Hesperetin (HN) (3',5,7-trihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavonone) and hesperetin analogue (HA) were tested for their apoptosis inducing ability. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay revealed a dose as well as duration-dependent reduction of HT-29 (colon adenocarcinoma) cellular growth in response to HN and HA treatment. At 24 h 70 μM of HN and 32 μM of HA showed 50% reduction of HT-29 cellular growth. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining showed apoptotic features of cell death induced by HN and HA. Rhodamine 123 staining showed significant reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential induced by HN and HA. HN and HA induced DNA damage was confirmed by comet tail formation. Lipid peroxidation markers (TBARS) and protein oxidation marker (PCC) were significantly elevated in HN and HA treated groups. Enzymic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were slightly decreased in their activities compared to control (untreated HT-29 cells). Results of Western blot analysis of apoptosis associated genes revealed an increase in cytochrome C, Bax, cleaved caspase-3 expression and a decrease in Bcl-2 expression. These findings indicate that HN and HA induce apoptosis on HT-29 via Bax dependent mitochondrial pathway involving oxidant/antioxidant imbalance.

Alteration in mitochondrial thiol enhances calcium ion dependent membrane permeability transition and dysfunction in vitro: a cross-talk between mtThiol, Ca(2+), and ROS

Mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) and dysfunctions play a pivotal role in many patho-physiological and toxicological conditions. The interplay of mitochondrial thiol (mtThiol), MPT, Ca(2+) homeostasis, and resulting dysfunctions still remains controversial despite studies by several research groups. Present study was undertaken to ascertain the correlation between Ca(2+) homeostasis, mtThiol alteration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in causing MPT leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. mtThiol depletion significantly enhanced Ca(2+) dependent MPT (swelling) and depolarization of mitochondria resulting in release of pro-apoptotic proteins like Cyt c, AIF, and EndoG. mtThiol alteration and Ca(2+) overload caused reduced mitochondrial electron flow, oxidation of pyridine nucleotides (NAD(P)H) and significantly enhanced ROS generation (DHE and DCFH-DA fluorescence). Studies with MPT inhibitor (Cyclosporin A), Ca(2+) uniport blocker (ruthenium red) and Ca(2+) chelator (BAPTA) indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction was more pronounced under dual stress of altered mtThiol and Ca(2+) overload in comparison with single stress of excessive Ca(2+). Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the changes in mitochondrial integrity under stress. Our findings suggest that the Ca(2+) overload itself is not solely responsible for structural and functional impairment of mitochondria. A multi-factorial cross-talk between mtThiol, Ca(2+) and ROS is responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, minor depletion of mtThiol was found to be an important factor along with Ca(2+) overload in triggering MPT in isolated mitochondria, tilting the balance towards disturbed functionality.

Abrogation of nimesulide induced oxidative stress and mitochondria mediated apoptosis by Fumaria parviflora Lam. extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

[corrected] Fumaria parviflora Lam. is used for treating aches and pains, diarrhea, fever, influenza and other complications. The herb mixed with honey is taken to prevent vomiting as per Ayurvedic text.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In vivo studies were conducted to explore the hepatoprotective potential of Fumaria parviflora Lam. Fp extract against nimesulide induced oxidative stress and regulation of critical events in mitochondria mediated apoptosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Group of Wistar rats were fed with nimesulide for 5 days (80 mg/kg/day, po), another group was pre-treated with Fp extract/silymarin (200mg/kg/day, po) for 5 days followed by nimesulide exposure. Liver serum biomarkers and histopathology were done to assess hepatotoxicity caused by nimesulide. Antioxidant enzymes (SOD, LPO, GPx, GR) were assessed using biochemical assays as well as gene expression by RT-PCR. GSH content and ROS generation was also evaluated using flow cytometry. Key apoptotic markers like phosphatidyl serine externalization, Bax, Bcl-2 translocation, mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, caspases (9/3) activation and DNA damage were also observed in all the groups to confirm involvement of mitochondrial pathway.

RESULTS

Pre-treatment with Fp extract for 5 days significantly reduced the impact of nimesulide induced toxicity as evident from the serum biomarkers of liver damage and histopathology. It also modulated antioxidant enzymes mRNA expression as well as activity (SOD, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase) and reduced lipid peroxidation during nimesulide toxicity. Nimesulide exposure decreased GSH content (92.9%) and increased reactive oxygen species (9.29 fold) which was attenuated in Fp treated rats. Fp pre-treatment significantly altered key apoptotic events like Bcl2 and Bax translocation, inhibited mitochondrial depolarization, prevented cytochrome c release, caspase-9/caspase-3 activation and DNA damage.

CONCLUSION

Our in vivo findings regarding protection accorded by Fp extract against nimesulide toxicity suggest that Fp not only reduced hepatotoxicity but attenuated critical control points of apoptotic cell death.

Modulation of Bax/Bcl-2 and caspases by probiotics during acetaminophen induced apoptosis in primary hepatocytes

Oxidative stress is an important factor in drug induced hepatotoxicity and antioxidants from natural sources have potential to ameliorate it. The present study was aimed to investigate cyto-protective potential of probiotic Enterococcus lactis IITRHR1 (El(SN)) and Lactobacillus acidophilus MTCC447 (La(SN)) lysate against acetaminophen (APAP) induced hepatotoxicity. Cultured rat hepatocytes pretreated with El(SN)/La(SN) showed higher cell viability under APAP stress. Pre-treatment with El(SN,) restored glutathione level and reduced ROS generation significantly which are major biomarkers of oxidative stress. It also reduced NO level, MDA formation and enhanced SOD activity. Pre-treatment with probiotic lysates significantly inhibited the translocation of pro-apoptotic protein (Bax), enhanced anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) protein levels and prevented release of cyt c to cytosol; suggesting involvement of mitochondrial proteins in protection against APAP induced oxidative cellular damage. Loss in mitochondrial membrane potential due to APAP treatment was prevented in the presence of probiotic lysates. Protective action of El(SN)/La(SN) pretreatment was further supported by prevention of procaspase-3 activation, DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation, in turn inhibiting APAP induced apoptotic cell death. The results indicate that probiotic preparations modulate crucial end points of oxidative stress induced apoptosis and may be used for management of drug induced liver injury.

Suppression of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators by Cymbopogon citratus D. Stapf extract in lipopolysaccharide stimulated murine alveolar macrophages

Exploration of antioxidants of plant origin and their scientific validation for their immense pharmacological potential is emerging as an issue of intense research now-a-days.The effect of Cymbopogon citratus extract was seen on cell viability, oxidative stress markers i.e. ROS production, SOD activity, lipid peroxidation and GSH content of murine alveolar macrophages stressed with lipopolysaccharide. Modulation in release of NO and pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α along with alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential under stress were compared with known plant derived antioxidant quercetin. The extract was not found to be cytotoxic at any of the selected doses. At 5 and 10 μg the extract showed significant increase in SOD activity, GSH content (p<0.001), decrease in ROS production as seen by fluorescent dye DCFH-DA and also MDA formation (lipid peroxidation marker) significantly. The extract also showed reduction in the release of pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-α and NO significantly indicating an anti-inflammatory effect. The extract was able to restore mitochondrial membrane potential as estimated by spectrofluorimetry using the fluorescent dye Rhodamine 123. The results suggest potential use of the cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property of C. citratus in the form of dietary component and also in formulations against lung inflammatory diseases where oxidative stress plays an important role.

Nimesulide aggravates redox imbalance and calcium dependent mitochondrial permeability transition leading to dysfunction in vitro

Nimesulide (selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for the symptomatic treatment of painful conditions like osteoarthritis, spondilitis and primary dysmenorrhoea. Nimesulide induced liver damage is a serious side effect of this otherwise popular drug. The mechanism involved in nimesulide induced hepatotoxicity is still not fully elucidated. However, both mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress have been implicated in contributing to liver injury in susceptible patients. Mitochondria besides being the primary source of energy, act as a hub of signals responsible for initiating cell death, irrespective of the pathway, i.e. apoptosis or necrosis. The present study was aimed to explore the role of compounding stress, i.e. Ca(2+) overload and GSH depletion in nimesulide induced mitochondrial toxicity and dysfunction. Our study showed that, nimesulide (100 microM) treatment resulted into rapid depletion of GSH (60%) in isolated rat liver mitochondria and significant Ca(2+) dependent MPT changed. Enhanced ROS generation (DCF fluorescence) was also observed in mitochondria treated with nimesulide. An important finding was that the concentration at which nimesulide oxidized reduced pyridine nucleotides (autofluorescence of NAD(P)H), it affected mitochondrial electron flow (MTT activity decreased by 75%) and enhanced mitochondrial depolarization significantly as assessed by Rhodamine 123 fluorescent probe. Therefore, nimesulide was found to aggravate redox imbalance and affect Ca(2+) dependent mitochondrial membrane permeability transition leading to dysfunction and ultimately cell death.