Resveratrol attenuates cisplatin renal cortical cytotoxicity by modifying oxidative stress

Pharmacological activity of capsaicin: Mechanisms and controversies (Review)

Capsaicin, which is abundant in chili peppers, exerts antioxidative, antitumor, antiulcer and analgesic effects and it has demonstrated potential as a treatment for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, oncological and dermatological conditions. Unique among natural irritants, capsaicin initially excites neurons but then 'calms' them into long‑lasting non‑responsiveness. Capsaicin can also promote weight loss, making it potentially useful for treating obesity. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the therapeutic effects of capsaicin, including antioxidation, analgesia and promotion of apoptosis. Some of the mechanisms are proposed to be mediated by the capsaicin receptor (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1), but some are proposed to be independent of that receptor. The clinical usefulness of capsaicin is limited by its short half‑life. The present review provided an overview of what is known about the therapeutic effects of capsaicin and the mechanisms involved and certain studies arguing against its clinical use were mentioned.

Molecular Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Acute Kidney Injury: Targeting the Loci by Resveratrol

Reactive oxygen species are a group of cellular molecules that stand as double-edged swords, their good and bad being discriminated by a precise balance. Several metabolic reactions in the biological system generate these molecules that interact with cellular atoms to regulate functions ranging from cell homeostasis to cell death. A prooxidative state of the cell concomitant with decreased clearance of such molecules leads to oxidative stress, which contributes as a prime pathophysiological mechanism in various diseases including renal disorders, such as acute kidney injury. However, targeting the generation of oxidative stress in renal disorders by an antioxidant, resveratrol, is gaining considerable therapeutic importance and is known to improve the condition in preclinical studies. This review aims to discuss molecular mechanisms of oxidative stress in acute kidney injury and its amelioration by resveratrol. The major sources of data were PubMed and Google Scholar, with studies from the last five years primarily included, with significant earlier data also considered. Mitochondrial dysfunction, various enzymatic reactions, and protein misfolding are the major sources of reactive oxygen species in acute kidney injury, and interrupting these loci of generation or intersection with other cellular components by resveratrol can mitigate the severity of the condition.

Pharmacological NF-κB inhibition decreases cisplatin chemoresistance in muscle-invasive bladder cancer and reduces cisplatin-induced toxicities

Most patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) are not cured with platinum chemotherapy. Up-regulation of nuclear factor kappa light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) is a major mechanism underlying chemoresistance, suggesting that its pharmacological inhibition may increase platinum efficacy. NF-κB signaling was investigated in two patient cohorts. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used to correlate NF-κB signaling and patient survival. The efficacy of cisplatin plus the NF-κB inhibitor dimethylaminoparthenolide (DMAPT) versus cisplatin or DMAPT alone was tested in vitro. Xenografted and immunocompetent MIBC mouse models were studied in vivo. Platinum-naive claudin-low MIBC showed constitutive NF-κB signaling and this was associated with reduced disease-specific survival in TCGA patients. Chemotherapy up-regulated NF-κB signaling and chemoresistance-associated genes, including SPHK1, PLAUR, and SERPINE1. In mice, DMAPT significantly improved the efficacy of cisplatin in both models. The combination preserved body weight, renal function, and morphology, reduced muscle fatigue and IL-6 serum levels, and did not aggravate immuno-hematological toxicity compared with cisplatin alone. These data provide a rationale for combining NF-κB inhibition with platinum-based chemotherapy and conducting a clinical trial in MIBC patients.

Prophylactic consequences of sodium salicylate nanoparticles in cisplatin-mediated hepatotoxicity

Unintended side effects linked to the antineoplastic drug cisplatin are a major drawback in its clinical application. The underlying source of these side effects include the generation of reactive oxygen species which are toxic and damaging to tissues and organs. In the present study the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of sodium salicylate was assessed against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Sodium salicylate was used as a model drug and loading into hollow structured porous silica using ultrasound-assisted sol-gel method to produce a nanoemulsion. Transmission Electron Microscopy and Dynamic Light scattering analysis were employed to assess the structural properties and stability of this model. Liver function was assessed by measuring biomarkers including ALT, AST & GGT and oxidant/antioxidant markers including MDA, NO, PON, GSH, MCP1 & AVP in serum or liver tissue. Additionally, blood leukocyte DNA damage was evaluated. Cisplatin significantly altered the normal levels of all biomarkers confirming its hepatotoxic effects. In contrast, treatment with sodium salicylate-loaded silica nanoemulsion significantly restored the levels of these markers. The finding suggests the protective effects of this model drug in preventing cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity, and therefore may have implications in attenuating cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) protects from neuropathy caused by cisplatin, through enhanced heat shock protein-70 and reduced oxidant effect

OBJECTIVE:

We aimed to determine whether vitamin C has a protective effect on cisplatin-induced neuropathy in rats.

METHODS:

In total, 24 rats were included in the study of which 8 rats (no drug administered) were categorized as the control group. The remaining 16 rats were given a total dose of 20 mg/kg cisplatin to induce neuropathy. These drug-administered rats (16 rats) were randomly divided into two groups, namely, group-1 (n=8): cisplatin+saline and group-2 (n=8): cisplatin+vitamin C (500 mg/kg/day). All rats were tested for motor function and electromyographic activity 3 days after cisplatin. Motor performance was evaluated by an inclined-plane test. Compound muscle action potential was evaluated. Plasma malondialdehyde, glutathione, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6, and sciatic nerve HSP 70 levels were measured. Axon diameter and nerve growth factor expression levels were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Plasma malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin 6 levels were higher in the cisplatin+saline group than control group (p<0.001). But vitamin C significantly reduced malondialdehyde and inflammatory cytokine levels when compared with the cisplatin+saline group (p<0.001). Glutathione levels were lower in both cisplatin+saline and cisplatin+vitamin C groups than control group, but vitamin C significantly ameliorated the glutathione levels (p<0.05). Sciatic heat shock protein-70 levels were significantly higher in the cisplatin+vitamin C group than cisplatin+saline group. Compound muscle action potential amplitude and inclined plane test scores were significantly improved in the vitamin C group (p<0.05). Axon diameter and nerve growth factor expression ameliorated with vitamin C (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

We demonstrated the ameliorated effects of vitamin C on cisplatin-induced neuropathy through increased heat shock protein-70, nerve growth factor levels, and reduced inflammatory and oxidant effects. The results are promising to improve the neurotoxic effects of cisplatin in cancer patients.

Polyphenols and Their Metabolites in Renal Diseases: An Overview

Kidney diseases constitute a worldwide public health problem, contributing to morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to provide an overview of the published data regarding the potential beneficial effects of polyphenols on major kidney diseases, namely acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, renal cancer, and drug-induced nephrotoxicity. This study consists of a bibliographical review including in vitro and in vivo studies dealing with the effects of individual compounds. An analysis of the polyphenol metabolome in human urine was also conducted to estimate those compounds that are most likely to be responsible for the kidney protective effects of polyphenols. The biological effects of polyphenols can be highly attributed to the modulation of specific signaling cascades including those involved in oxidative stress responses, anti-inflammation processes, and apoptosis. There is increasing evidence that polyphenols afford great potential in renal disease protection. However, this evidence (especially when in vitro studies are involved) should be considered with caution before its clinical translation, particularly due to the unfavorable pharmacokinetics and extensive metabolization that polyphenols undergo in the human body. Future research should consider polyphenols and their metabolites that indeed reach kidney tissues.

Maltol mitigates cisplatin-evoked cardiotoxicity via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in rodents in vivo and in vitro

Our current research aims to evaluate the efficiency of a flavor enhancer, maltol (produced by heating ginseng) against cisplatin-evoked cardiotoxicity by establishing cisplatin-induced heart injury in vivo and H9C2 rat cardiomyocyte model. The cisplatin-treated mice at 3 mg/kg for four times on the 7th, 9th, 11th and 13th day, and in them appeared a serious cardiac damage accompanied with the increase in indicators of heart damage. Multiple exposure of 3 mg/kg for four times of cisplatin increased cardiac cells apoptosis with increased expression of Bax and cleaved-caspase 3, and decreased expression of Bcl-2. Interestingly, supplement of maltol at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg for 15 days significantly suppressed the cardiac disturbance. In cultured H9C2 cells, maltol enhanced PI3K/Akt expression level during cisplatin treatment, and reduced cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Notably, inhibition of PI3K/Akt by LY294002 and HY-10249A lessened the efficacy of maltol. In mice, maltol apparently induced PI3K/Akt in heart tissues and protected against cisplatin-induced cardiotoxicity. In conclusion, maltol exerted the protective effects against cisplatin-induced cardiotoxicity, at least partially by inhibiting the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in cardiomyocytes, to ease oxidative stress, and alleviate reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis.

Polydatin Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis

Cisplatin is widely used in the treatment of solid tumors, but its application is greatly limited due to its nephrotoxicity; thus, there is still no effective medicine for the treatment of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (Cis-AKI). We previously identified that polydatin (PD) exerts nephroprotective effects by antioxidative stress in AKI models. Recent evidence suggests that oxidative stress-induced molecular events overlap with the process of ferroptosis and that there are common molecular targets, such as glutathione (GSH) depletion and lipid peroxidation. Nevertheless, whether the nephroprotective effect of PD is related to anti-ferroptosis remains unclear. In this study, the inhibitory effect of PD on ferroptosis was observed in both cisplatin-treated HK-2 cells (20 μM) in vitro and a Cis-AKI mouse model (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) in vivo, characterized by the reversion of excessive intracellular free iron accumulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) content and GSH depletion, and an increase in glutathione peroxidase-4 (GPx4) activity. Remarkably, PD dose-dependently alleviated cell death induced by the system Xc⁻ inhibitor erastin (10 μM), and the effect of the 40 μM dose of PD was more obvious than that of ferrostatin-1 (1 μM) and deferoxamine (DFO, 100 μM), classical ferroptosis inhibitors. Our results provide insight into nephroprotection with PD in Cis-AKI by inhibiting ferroptosis via maintenance of the system Xc⁻-GSH-GPx4 axis and iron metabolism.

Preventive and therapeutic role of betaine in liver disease: A review on molecular mechanisms

Betaine is a kind of water-soluble quaternary amine-type alkaloid widely existing in food, such as wheat germ, beet, spinach, shrimp and wolfberry. As an important methyl donor and osmotic pressure regulator in human body, betaine plays an important role in a variety of physiological activities. In recent years, a large number of literatures have shown that betaine has good preventive and therapeutic effects on many liver diseases, including chemical or drug-induced liver injury, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Therefore, by searching the databases of Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder and CNKI, this paper has summarized the molecular mechanisms of betaine in improving liver diseases. The results show that the improvement of liver diseases by betaine is closely related to a variety of molecular mechanisms, including inhibition of inflammatory response, improvement of insulin resistance, reduction of endoplasmic reticulum stress, alleviation of liver oxidative stress, increase of autophagy, remodeling of intestinal flora and regulation of epigenetic modification. More importantly, nuclear transcription factor kappa (NF-κB), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α/γ (PPAR-α/γ), liver X receptor α (LXRα), protein kinase B (Akt), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3 (Caspase-3) signaling pathways are considered as important molecular targets for betaine to improve liver diseases. These important findings will provide a direction and basis for further exploring the pathogenesis of various liver diseases and tapping the potential of betaine in the clinical treatment.

Pre-incubation with human umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells-exosomes prevents cisplatin-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury

PURPOSE

The administration of cisplatin is limited due to its nephrotoxicity, and prevention of this nephrotoxicity of cisplatin is difficult. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes have been implicated as a novel therapeutic approach for tissue injury.

RESULTS

In vitro, the NRK cells pre-incubated with HUMSC-exosomes increased the Cp-inhibited cell viability, proliferation activity, and the cell proportion in G1-phase and inhibited Cp-induced cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the expression levels of apoptotic marker proteins Bim, Bad, Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-9 induced by Cp in the NRK cells were decreased by pre-incubating with HUMSC-exosomes.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that the exosomes from HUMSCs can effectively increase the survival rate and inhibit cell apoptosis of NRK cells. Therefore, pre-treatment of HUMSC-exosomes may be a new method to improve the therapeutic effect of cisplatin.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Exosomes were isolated from human umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs). Co-culture of normal rat renal tubular epithelial cells (NRK) and the absorption of exogenous exosomes by NRK cells were examined in vitro. Then the NRK cells were incubated with exosomes from HUMSCs and cisplatin (Cp). Cells were harvested for MTT assay, cloning formation, flow cytometry, and Western blot.

SIRT1-mediated amelioration of oxidative stress in kidney of alcohol-aflatoxin-B1-induced hepatocellular carcinoma by resveratrol is catalase dependent and GPx independent

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of primary liver cancer and dietary exposure to aflatoxins is a major risk factor of HCC. The current study aimed to assess the role of resveratrol and nicotinamide in renal toxicity during alcohol-aflatoxin-B1-induced HCC. The results revealed that resveratrol treatment normalized the level of urea, lipid peroxidation, lactate and lactate dehydrogenase, which were increased in HCC. It also downregulated the increased expression of sirtuin 1 in HCC kidney. Furthermore, amelioration of oxidative stress in kidney of HCC rats by resveratrol was observed to be catalase dependent and glutathione peroxidase independent.

Nano Ellagic Acid Counteracts Cisplatin-Induced Upregulation in OAT1 and OAT3: A Possible Nephroprotection Mechanism

Cisplatin is an anticancer drug commonly used for solid tumors. However, it causes nephrotoxicity. OAT1 and OAT3 are organic anion transporters known to contribute to the uptake of cisplatin into renal tubular cells. The present study was designed to examine the protective role of ellagic acid nanoformulation (ellagic acid nano) on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, and the role of OAT1/OAT3 in this effect. Four groups of male Wistar rats were used (n = 6): (1) control, (2) cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg single dose, intraperitoneal), (3) cisplatin + ellagic acid nano (1 mg/kg), and (4) cisplatin + ellagic acid nano (2 mg/kg). Nephrotoxic rats treated with ellagic acid nano exhibited a significant reduction in elevated serum creatinine, urea, and oxidative stress marker, malondialdehyde (MDA). Additionally, ellagic acid nano restored renal glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Ellagic acid nano improved the histopathological changes induced by cisplatin, such as tubular dilatation, necrosis, and degeneration. Interestingly, OAT1 and OAT3 showed significantly lower expression at both mRNA and protein levels following ellagic acid nano treatment relative to the cisplatin-exposed group. These findings reveal a potential inhibitory role of ellagic acid antioxidant on OAT1 and OAT3 expression and thus explains its nephroprotective effect against cisplatin nephrotoxicity.

A novel effect of Aprepitant: Protection for cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity

Cisplatin is widely used chemotherapeutic drug and have some serious side effects as tissue toxicity and nausea and vomiting. Aprepitant is used in clinic as an anti-emetic drug for cisplatin treated patient to prevent nausea and vomiting. We aimed to investigate the protective effects of Aprepitant on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. In total 42 male rats were separated into six groups (n = 7). A single dose of cisplatin (10 mg/kg i.p.) was administered to induce toxicity on first day. Different doses of Aprepitant (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) were given to treatment groups during 3 days. After the experimental procedures serum enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, BUN and Creatinin), kidney and liver oxidative parameters (SOD, GSH and MDA), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and NF-κB) and Cyp2e1 expressions analyzed. Histopathological investigations also performed for all groups. Cisplatin caused tissue toxicity in both kidney and liver. Serum enzymes, tissue cytokines and oxidative stress were increased after the Cis treatment. Aprepitant treatment normalized all parameters compared to cisplatin treated group. Cisplatin significantly increased the Cyp2e1 expression in the kidney while significantly decreased in the liver compared to Healthy group. Histopathologically, it was shown that cisplatin causes a lot of abnormal structures as inflammatory infiltration and necrosis on the liver and kidney. Similar the biochemical and molecular results, aprepitant showed positive effects on tissue pathological parameters. With its main anti-emetic effect, Aprepitant treatment may be an effective option for cancer patients if they have additional injury as nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity due to cisplatin.

Renoprotective Effects of a New Free Radical Scavenger, XH-003, against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Acute renal injury has an incidence of 25%–30% in patients with tumors who are treated with cisplatin and in patients for whom no specific drugs are available for treatment. Amifostine is the only FDA-approved chemoprotective drug; however, its clinical application is limited because of side effects. The small-molecule antioxidant XH-003, an acute radiation syndrome- (ARS-) protective drug independently developed in our laboratory, with 100% intellectual property rights, overcomes the side effects of amifostine but retains its high efficacy. In this study, XH-003 showed a chemoprotective effect similar to that of amifostine. A mechanistic study showed that XH-003 could significantly reduce cisplatin-induced increases in serum creatinine and urea nitrogen, increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px), reduce oxidative stress and tissue inflammation, and alleviate renal tissue damage by blocking the activity of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Most importantly, XH-003 could reduce the accumulation of cisplatin in renal tissue by regulating the expression of proteins involved in cisplatin uptake and excretion, such as organic cation transporter 2 and MRP2. Moreover, in an in vivo xenotransplantation model, XH-003 did not interfere with the antitumor effect of cisplatin. These data provide strong evidence that the ARS-protective agent has a great potential for protecting against chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Thus, XH-003 can be considered in antitumor therapy.

Inhibition of NF-κB and the oxidative stress -dependent caspase-3 apoptotic pathway by betaine supplementation attenuates hepatic injury mediated by cisplatin in rats

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is a major anti-cancer drug commonly used in the treatment of various cancers; nevertheless, the associated hepatotoxicity has limited its clinical application. The aim of this investigation is to test the impact of betaine supplementation on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

Animals were allocated into four groups; normal control group (control betaine group (250 mg/kg/day, po for twenty six days), cisplatin group (single injection of 7 mg/kg, ip) and betaine + cisplatin group (received betaine for twenty one days before cisplatin injection and daily after cisplatin for five days).

RESULTS

Cisplatin-induced liver injury was confirmed by increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. Cisplatin elevated lipid peroxides, and reduced the concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in hepatic tissues. Cisplatin increased the inflammatory mediators; nitrite and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF- α) in hepatic tissues. Increased gene expressions of the apoptotic marker, caspase-3 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were observed in hepatic tissues of cisplatin-treated rats. All these changes were further confirmed by histopathological findings in cisplatin group. Pre-treatment with betaine reduced serum aminotransferases (ALT and AST), and lowered hepatic concentrations of lipid peroxides, nitrite and TNF-α while increased SOD, GSH, catalase, and GSH-Px concentrations. Moreover, the histological and immunohistochemical changes were improved.

CONCLUSION

The suppression of NF-κβ-mediated inflammation, oxidative stress, and caspase-3 induced apoptosis are possible mechanisms to the observed hepatoprotective effect of betaine.

Resveratrol Supplementation Protects Against Nicotine-Induced Kidney Injury

Prolonged exposure to nicotine accelerates onset and progression of renal diseases in habitual cigarette smokers. Exposure to nicotine, either via active or passive smoking is strongly shown to enhance renal oxidative stress and augment kidney failure in various animal models. In this study, we investigated the effects of resveratrol supplementation on nicotine-induced kidney injury and oxidative stress in a rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given nicotine (0.6 mg/kg, i.p.) alone or in combination with either resveratrol (8 mg/kg, i.p.), or angiotensin II type I receptor blocker, irbesartan (10 mg/kg, p.o.) for 28 days. Upon completion of treatment, kidneys were investigated for changes in structure, kidney injury markers and oxidative stress. Administration of nicotine alone for 28 days resulted in significant renal impairment as shown by marked increase in plasma creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and oxidative stress. Co-administration with resveratrol however successfully attenuated these changes, with a concomitant increase in renal antioxidants such as glutathione similar to the conventionally used angiotensin II receptor blocker, irbesartan. These data altogether suggest that targeting renal oxidative stress with resveratrol could alleviate nicotine-induced renal injury. Antioxidants may be clinically important for management of renal function in habitual smokers.

Rosiglitazone Suppresses Calcium Oxalate Crystal Binding and Oxalate-Induced Oxidative Stress in Renal Epithelial Cells by Promoting PPAR-γ Activation and Subsequent Regulation of TGF-β1 and HGF Expression

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor- (PPAR-) γ is a ligand-dependent transcription factor, and it has become evident that PPAR-γ agonists have renoprotective effects, but their influence and mechanism during the development of calcium oxalate (CaOx) nephrolithiasis remain unknown. Rosiglitazone (RSG) was used as a representative PPAR-γ agonist in our experiments. The expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), c-Met, p-Met, PPAR-γ, p-PPAR-γ (Ser112), Smad2, Smad3, pSmad2/3, and Smad7 was examined in oxalate-treated Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and a stone-forming rat model. A CCK-8 assay was used to evaluate the effects of RSG on cell viability. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were monitored, and lipid peroxidation in renal tissue was detected according to superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, the location and extent of CaOx crystal deposition were evaluated by Pizzolato staining. Our results showed that, both in vitro and in vivo, oxalate impaired PPAR-γ expression and phosphorylation, and then accumulative ROS production was observed, accompanied by enhanced TGF-β1 and reduced HGF. These phenomena could be reversed by the addition of RSG. RSG also promoted cell viability and proliferation and decreased oxidative stress damage and CaOx crystal deposition. However, these protective effects of RSG were abrogated by the PPAR-γ-specific inhibitor GW9662. Our results revealed that the reduction of PPAR-γ activity played a critical role in oxalate-induced ROS damage and CaOx stone formation. RSG can regulate TGF-β1 and HGF/c-Met through PPAR-γ to exert antioxidant effects against hyperoxaluria and alleviate crystal deposition. Therefore, PPAR-γ agonists may be expected to be a novel therapy for nephrolithiasis, and this effect is related to PPAR-γ-dependent suppression of oxidative stress.

Celastrol pretreatment as a therapeutic option against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

Celastrol is a natural bioactive compound extracted from the medicinal plant Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. It exhibits immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug in the treatment of a wide range of tumors. Although very effective therapeutically, it can cause nephrotoxicity leading to dose reduction or discontinuation of treatment. This study aims to clarify the therapeutic potential of celastrol in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The possible protective effects of celastrol pretreatment against cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity were investigated. A rat kidney epithelial cell line NRK-52E was pretreated with the desired concentrations of celastrol (200 nM, 100 nM, and 50 nM) for 24 h. The cells were treated with 50 μM cisplatin for a further 24 h to see whether cisplatin caused the same or less toxicity compared to the vehicle control group. Alkaline comet assay was performed for genotoxicity assessment. Genotoxicity evaluation revealed that celastrol caused a statistically significant reduction in DNA damage. Oxidative stress parameters were evaluated by measuring the glutathione (GSH) and protein carbonyl (PC) levels and also by measuring the enzyme activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes. Celastrol pretreatment increased the GSH content of the cells and ameliorated the protein carbonylation level. Likewise, celastrol pretreatment improved the GR and CAT activities. However, no significant difference was observed in GPx and SOD activities. In the light of these findings, celastrol treatment could be a therapeutic option to reduce cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Further studies are needed for the clarification of its therapeutic potential.

Ellagic acid ameliorates cisplatin induced hepatotoxicity in colon carcinogenesis

The clinical application of cisplatin (CP), one of the most extensively used antineoplastic drug, is restricted by its numerous side effects. CP's antitumor potential resides in the free generation of reactive oxygen species leading to oxidative stress. This stress is a source of the side effects associated with its use. Ellagic acid (EA), a polyphenol is known to possess multiple health benefits owing to its antioxidant properties. EA is largely metabolized by the colon microbiota of different mammals and therefore was a polyphenol of choice in the present study. The present study was thus carried out to explore the protective potential of EA on CP induced hepatotoxicity in colon tumor bearing mice. The administration of EA (10 mg/kg bwt po daily for 6 weeks) significantly ameliorated the toxicity caused by CP (5 mg/kg bwt ip once a week for 4 weeks). Activities of liver marker enzymes and lactate dehydrogenase were brought back to normal. EA cotreatment also led to a marked reduction in the extent of peroxidative damage to liver tissue as was evident from the improvement in the histopathological changes observed and FT-IR analysis. The present study, therefore, suggests that the administration of EA reduces the CP-induced hepatotoxicity, thereby emerging out as a potential candidate for chemopreventive action.

Ginsenoside Rb3 provides protective effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity via regulation of AMPK-/mTOR-mediated autophagy and inhibition of apoptosis in vitro and in vivo

Objectives

Based on previous reports that ginsenosides have been shown to exert better preventive effects on cisplatin‐induced kidney injury, the present work aims to evaluate the protective effects of ginsenoside Rb3 (G‐Rb3) on cisplatin‐induced renal damage and underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.

Materials and methods

The protective effect of G‐Rb3 on cisplatin‐induced acute renal failure in ICR mouse model and HEK293 cell model was investigated, and the underlying possible mechanisms were also explored. For animal experiment, renal function, kidney histology, inflammation, oxidative stress, relative protein molecules involved in apoptosis and autophagy signalling pathways were assessed. In addition, rapamycin (a specific inhibitor of mTOR), compound C (a specific inhibitor of AMPK) and acetylcysteine (NAC, a specific ROS scavenger) were employed to testify the effects of AMPK/mTOR signal pathway on the protective effects of G‐Rb3 in HEK293 cells.

Results

Pre‐treatment with G‐Rb3 at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for ten days significantly reversed the increases in serum creatinine (CRE), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and decrease in glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Histopathological examination further revealed that G‐Rb3 inhibited cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity. G‐Rb3 diminished cisplatin‐induced increase in protein expression levels of p62, Atg3, Atg5 and Atg7, and decrease in protein expression level of p‐mTOR and the ratio of LC3‐I/LC3‐II, indicating that G‐Rb3 suppressed cisplatin‐induced activation of autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy induced inactivation of apoptosis, which suggested that autophagy played an adverse effect on cisplatin‐evoked renal damage. Further, we found that G‐Rb3 might potentially modulate the expressions of AMPK‐related signal pathways.

Conclusions

These findings clearly suggested that G‐Rb3‐mediated alleviation of cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity was in part due to regulation of AMPK‐/mTOR‐mediated autophagy and inhibition of apoptosis in vitro and in vivo.

Leveraging the Cardio-Protective and Anticancer Properties of Resveratrol in Cardio-Oncology

Cardio-oncology is a clinical/scientific discipline which aims to prevent and/or treat cardiovascular diseases in cancer patients. Although a large number of cancer treatments are known to cause cardiovascular toxicity, they are still widely used because they are highly effective. Unfortunately, therapeutic interventions to prevent and/or treat cancer treatment-induced cardiovascular toxicity have not been established yet. A major challenge for such interventions is to protect the cardiovascular system without compromising the therapeutic benefit of anticancer medications. Intriguingly, the polyphenolic natural compound resveratrol and its analogs have been shown in preclinical studies to protect against cancer treatment-induced cardiovascular toxicity. They have also been shown to possess significant anticancer properties on their own, and to enhance the anticancer effect of other cancer treatments. Thus, they hold significant promise to protect the cardiovascular system and fight the cancer at the same time. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge regarding the cardio-protective and the anticancer properties of resveratrol and its analogs. Thereafter, we will discuss the challenges that face the clinical application of these agents. To conclude, we will highlight important gaps of knowledge and future research directions to accelerate the translation of these exciting preclinical findings to cancer patient care.

Nephroprotective Effects of Benzyl Isothiocyanate and Resveratrol Against Cisplatin-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

This study was performed to compare the nephroprotective effects of benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and resveratrol (RES) and investigate the nephroprotective efficacy of their combination against cisplatin-induced acute renal injury. Five animal groups (each of eight) received either normal saline, a single intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg) at the sixth day, cisplatin plus oral RES (30 mg/kg) or BITC (100 mg/kg in diet), or a combination of both for 10 days. Compared to saline-treated mice, cisplatin-intoxicated mice had significantly higher (p < 0.05) serum levels of urea, creatinine, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α. Moreover, biochemical analysis of kidney tissue homogenates showed that cisplatin intoxication was associated with significantly higher (p < 0.05) tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lower levels of reduced glutathione and activities of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) in comparison to normal controls. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of renal tissue slices from cisplatin-intoxicated mice showed interstitial leukocytic infiltration, tortuous tubules with vacuolated epithelium, luminal casts, and overexpression of cyclooxygenase-II enzyme. On the other hand, treatment with RES or BITC ameliorated all the previous parameters. The effects of both compounds were comparable in all assessed parameters, except IL-1β serum concentration and renal tissue MDA concentration (which were significantly lower in the RES group). Interestingly, treatment with BITC and RES combination restored the normal concentrations of all the aforementioned biochemical parameters, as well as near normal histological and immunohistochemical pictures. In conclusion, BITC exerted nearly comparable nephroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects to RES and the combination of both agents showed more potent nephroprotective effects against cisplatin than each one alone.

Honey protects against cisplatin-induced hepatic and renal toxicity through inhibition of NF-κB-mediated COX-2 expression and the oxidative stress dependent BAX/Bcl-2/caspase-3 apoptotic pathway

The protective effects of both manuka and talh honeys were assessed using a rat model of cisplatin (CISP)-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The results revealed that both honeys exerted a protective effect against CISP-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity as demonstrated by decreasing liver and kidney function. Manuka honey also prevented CISP-induced histopathological changes observed in the liver and decreased the changes seen in the kidneys. Talh honey decreased CISP-induced liver histopathological changes but had no effect on CISP-induced kidney histopathological changes. Both honeys reduced the oxidative stress in the liver. Conversely, they have no effect on kidney oxidative stress, except that manuka honey increased CAT activity. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of the antioxidant octadecanoic acid in talh honey while heneicosane and hydrocinnamic acid were present at a higher content in manuka honey. The molecular mechanism was to limit the expression of inflammatory signals, including COX-2 and NF-κB, and the expression of the apoptotic signal, BAX and caspase-3 while inducing Bcl-2 expression.

Oral Nigella sativa oil and thymoquinone administration ameliorates the effect of long-term cisplatin treatment on the enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism, brush border membrane, and antioxidant defense in rat intestine

We have previously shown that oral administration of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) ameliorates the deleterious gastrointestinal effects of cisplatin (CP), administered as a single dose. Since a typical clinical CP dosing regimen involves multiple cycles of CP administration in lower doses, in the present study we investigate the protective efficacy of NSO and its major bioactive constituent, thymoquinone (TQ), against multiple-dose CP treatment-induced deleterious biochemical and histological changes in rat intestine. Rats were divided into six groups, viz., control, CP, CP+NSO, CP+TQ, NSO, and TQ. Animals in CP+NSO and CP+TQ groups were pre-administered NSO (2 ml/kg bwt, orally) and TQ (1.5 mg/kg bwt, orally), respectively, daily for 14 days and were then treated with five repeated doses of CP (3 mg/kg bwt, i.p.), every fourth day for 20 days while still receiving NSO/TQ. CP treatment alone led to a significant decline in specific activities of brush border membrane (BBM) enzymes while NSO or TQ administration to CP-treated rats significantly prevented the decline in BBM enzyme activities in the isolated brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) as well as in mucosal homogenates. Furthermore, both NSO and TQ administration markedly ameliorated CP-induced alterations on carbohydrate metabolism enzymes and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters of antioxidant defense system in the intestinal mucosa. However, NSO appeared to be more efficacious than TQ in protecting against CP-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction. Histopathological findings corroborated the biochemical results. Thus, NSO and TQ may prove clinically useful in amelioration of the intestinal toxicity associated with long-term CP chemotherapy.

Evaluation of Resveratrol in Cancer Patients and Experimental Models

Cancer is one of the top three causes of death in the United States. The treatment regimen for controlling cancer includes a number of approaches depending on the classification of the tumor. Treatment may include radiation, surgery, and cancer chemotherapy agents as well as other interventions. Natural products have been identified for centuries to contain active pharmacologic activity and have been a starting point for numerous drugs which are currently on the market. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural product generated in plants in response to environmental stress and growing conditions. RES has been recognized since 1997 to possess anticancer activity. This review discusses the dietary sources of RES and the relative amounts present in the various food sources. A few limited clinical studies have explored RES effects in patients with prostate and colorectal cancer and have suggested some beneficial results. Future studies need to expand the sample size for clinical examination of RES in order to provide a better profile for the potential benefit of RES in cancer patients. This review also describes the potential mechanisms of RES as an antioxidant and in alteration of cell signaling. Another aspect for the role of RES in cancer may be in the interaction with cancer chemotherapy agents. Cisplatin is a cancer chemotherapy agent used for the treatment of bladder, testicular, ovarian, and many other cancers. Cisplatin usage is associated with a high risk of nephrotoxicity. Experimental studies suggest that RES may reduce cisplatin renal toxicity. The proposed mechanisms of protection are reviewed.

Oral administration of Nigella sativa oil and thymoquinone attenuates long term cisplatin treatment induced toxicity and oxidative damage in rat kidney

Cisplatin (CP) is an effective anti-cancer drug which causes remarkable toxicity to the kidney, particularly to proximal tubules, by generating reactive oxygen species. Nigella sativa (NS), commonly known as "black cumin" reduces the progression of various kidney disorders. Thymoquinone (TQ), the major bioactive constituent of NS seeds, has been credited for various pharmacological effects of NS. Since, a typical clinical CP dosing regimen involves CP administration in multiple cycles over a long time duration, hence the present study aimed to evaluate the renoprotective efficacy of NS oil and TQ against multiple dose CP treatment induced deleterious biochemical and histological alterations in rat kidney. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into six groups viz. control, CP, CPNSO, CPTQ, NSO and TQ. Animals in CPNSO and CPTQ groups were pre-administered NSO (2ml/kg bwt, orally) and TQ (1.5mg/kg bwt, orally) respectively for 14 days and were then treated with CP (3mg/kg bwt, i.p), every fourth day for 20 days while still receiving NSO/TQ. NSO and TQ administration, prior to and along with CP treatment, attenuated CP induced renal functional impairment as evident by significantly restored serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. CP treatment alone led to significant decline in the specific activities of brush border membrane (BBM) marker enzymes viz. ALP (-46.64%), GGTase (-50.24%) and LAP (-42.15%), while NSO or TQ administration to CP treated rats significantly prevented the decline in the activities of these enzymes in isolated BBM vesicles (BBMVs) as well as in the homogenates of renal cortex and medulla. Furthermore, both NSO and TQ administration also mitigated the CP induced perturbations in renal metabolic and redox status. Histological studies supported these biochemical results showing significant attenuation of CP induced kidney damage in CPNSO and CPTQ cotreated groups. Thus, NSO and TQ have excellent scope for use as functional food or combinatorial nutraceuticals in CP chemotherapy to ameliorate the accompanying nephropathy in long term cancer chemotherapy.

Oral thymoquinone administration ameliorates: the effect of cisplatin on brush border membrane enzymes, energy metabolism, and redox status in rat kidney

Therapeutic use of cisplatin (CP), an effective anticancer drug, is limited by dose dependent nephrotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ), the major Nigella sativa seed oil constituent has been shown to prevent progression of various renal disorders. The present study investigates the protective effect of TQ on CP-induced nephrotoxicity. Rats were divided into six groups viz. control, CP, CPTQ₁, CPTQ₂, CPTQ₃, and TQ alone group. Animals in CP and TQ combination groups were administered TQ (0.5, 1.5, and 3 mg/kg bwt, orally) with single intraperitoneal dose of CP (6 mg/kg bwt). The effect of TQ administration was determined on CP-induced alterations in various serum/urine parameters and on the enzymes of brush border membrane enzyme (BBM), carbohydrate metabolism, and antioxidant defense system in renal cortex and medulla. Oral administration of TQ in all the three doses prior to and following a single dose CP treatment caused significant recovery of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels; however, maximum recovery was seen in CPTQ₂ group. TQ administration averted CP-induced decline in BBM activities, both in the cortical and medullary homogenates and in isolated BBM vesicles. TQ administration also ameliorated CP-induced impairments in renal metabolic and antioxidant status. Histopathological studies supported these biochemical findings. TQ ameliorates CP-induced oxidative damage owing to its intrinsic antioxidant properties.

Oral administration of thymoquinone mitigates the effect of cisplatin on brush border membrane enzymes, energy metabolism and antioxidant system in rat intestine

Cisplatin (CP) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent that elicits severe gastrointestinal toxicity. Nigella sativa, a member of family Ranunculaceae, is one of the most revered medicinal plant known for its numerous health benefits. Thymoquinone (TQ), a major bioactive component derived from the volatile oil of Nigella sativa seeds, has been shown to improve gastrointestinal functions in animal models of acute gastric/intestinal injury. In view of this, the aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of TQ on CP induced toxicity in rat intestine and to elucidate the mechanism underlying these effects. Rats were divided into four groups viz. control, CP, TQ and CP+TQ. Animals in CP+TQ and TQ groups were orally administered TQ (1.5mg/kg bwt) with and without a single intraperitoneal dose of CP (6mg/kg bwt) respectively. The effect of TQ was determined on CP induced alterations in the activities of brush border membrane (BBM), carbohydrate metabolism, and antioxidant defense enzymes in rat intestine. TQ administration significantly mitigated CP induced decline in the specific activities of BBM marker enzymes, both in the mucosal homogenates and in the BBM vesicles (BBMV) prepared from intestinal mucosa. Furthermore, TQ administration restored the redox and metabolic status of intestinal mucosal tissue in CP treated rats. The biochemical results were supported by histopathological findings that showed extensive damage to intestine in CP treated rats and markedly preserved intestinal histoarchitecture in CP and TQ co-treated group. The biochemical and histological data suggest a protective effect of TQ against CP-induced gastrointestinal damage. Thus, TQ may have a potential for clinical application to counteract the accompanying gastrointestinal toxicity in CP chemotherapy.

Resveratrol has dose-dependent effects on DNA fragmentation and mitochondrial activity of ovine secondary follicles cultured in vitro

The worldwide consumption of red wine, nuts and grapes has resulted in increased human exposure to resveratrol, which could affect reproductive function. However, the effect of resveratrol on in vitro culture of early-stage ovarian follicles has never been investigated. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effect of resveratrol on sheep secondary follicle morphology, growth, DNA fragmentation, intracellular levels of glutathione (GSH) and active mitochondria. Secondary follicles were isolated from the ovaries and cultured for 18 days in supplemented α-MEM+ (control medium) or in control medium containing resveratrol (2, 10 or 30 µM). The parameters analyzed were morphology, antrum formation, follicle diameter, DNA fragmentation, GSH levels and mitochondrial activity. After 18 days, all resveratrol groups significantly decreased the percentages of morphologically normal follicles compared with the control group (α-MEM+). Antrum formation was higher in both α-MEM+ and 2 µM resveratrol groups than in the 10 µM resveratrol group. In addition, 30 µM resveratrol increased the percentage of oocytes with DNA damage compared with the control. Oocytes from follicles treated with 10 or 30 µM resveratrol significantly decreased intracellular GSH levels compared with the 2 µM resveratrol group. Moreover, follicles in α-MEM+ (control) showed more active mitochondria than those in 10 or 30 µM resveratrol. In conclusion, ovine isolated secondary follicles are able to grow to the antral stage after in vitro culture in medium containing 2 µM resveratrol, maintaining the same rates of DNA damage, GSH levels and mitochondrial function as the control medium. However, the addition of 30 µM resveratrol increased DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress through decreasing mitochondrial activity.

Role of Free Radicals and Biotransformation in Trichloronitrobenzene-Induced Nephrotoxicity In Vitro

This study determined the comparative nephrotoxic potential of four trichloronitrobenzenes (TCNBs) (2,3,4-; 2,4,5-; 2,4,6-; and 3,4,5-TCNB) and explored the effects of antioxidants and biotransformation inhibitors on TCNB-induced cytotoxicity in isolated renal cortical cells (IRCC) from male Fischer 344 rats. IRCC were incubated with a TCNB up to 1.0 mM for 15–120 min. Pretreatment with an antioxidant or cytochrome P450 (CYP), flavin monooxygenase (FMO), or peroxidase inhibitor was used in some experiments. Among the four TCNBs, the order of decreasing nephrotoxic potential was approximately 3,4,5- > 2,4,6- > 2,3,4- > 2,4,5-TCNB. The four TCNBs exhibited a similar profile of attenuation of cytotoxicity in response to antioxidant pretreatments. 2,3,4- and 3,4,5-TCNB cytotoxicity was attenuated by most of the biotransformation inhibitors tested, 2,4,5-TCNB cytotoxicity was only inhibited by isoniazid (CYP 2E1 inhibitor), and 2,4,6-TCNB-induced cytotoxicity was inhibited by one CYP inhibitor, one FMO inhibitor, and one peroxidase inhibitor. All of the CYP specific inhibitors tested offered some attenuation of 3,4,5-TCNB cytotoxicity. These results indicate that 3,4,5-TCNB is the most potent nephrotoxicant, free radicals play a role in the TCNB cytotoxicity, and the role of biotransformation in TCNB nephrotoxicity in vitro is variable and dependent on the position of the chloro groups.

The Protective Effects of p-Coumaric Acid on Acute Liver and Kidney Damages Induced by Cisplatin

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of p-Coumaric acid (PCA) on cisplatin (CIS)-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in Wistar adult rats for 24 h compared to untreated control groups. In this experiment, 40 Wistar adult rats were utilized and divided randomly into five groups. After 24 h of CIS administration, liver and kidneys were harvested and assessed by H&amp;E staining. Also, markers for oxidative stress and antioxidants were analyzed in theses tissues. Compared to the control group, accumulation of malondialdehyde was increased in groups treated CIS, whereas superoxide dismutase activities and glutathione levels were distinctly diminished in this group. The study's histopathological findings such as hydropic degeneration, vascular congestion, sinusoidal dilatation in hepatocytes and tubular necrosis in kidneys were in accordance with the results of markers for oxidative stress. PCA may prevent hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by increased antioxidant enzymes and reduced oxidant parameters.

Phytotherapy of nephrotoxicity-induced by cancer drugs: an updated review

Context:

Kidney is one of the vital organs maintaining homeostasis of body and thus dysfunction of kidney affects quality of life and health severely. Anticancer drugs, particularly chemotherapeutic agents, cause high toxicity leading kidney dysfunction and irreparable kidney injury. Therefore, attention has recently been paid to seeking out alternatives such as nature-based drugs that are effective but less toxic. In this regard, this systematic review article is to report and introduce the most important medicinal plants and their derivatives that are used to reduce anticancer drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Evidence Acquisitions: The word nephrotoxicity alongside the words cancer or chemotherapy in combination with some herbal terms such as medicinal plant, plants, herbs, and extracts were administered to search for relevant publications indexed in PubMed.

Results:

According to this study, 16 medicinal plants, 12 plant-based derivatives, and three traditional plant-based formulations were found to help control and modulate anticancer drug-induced nephrotoxicity indices.

Conclusions:

Anticancer drugs cause nephrotoxicity through activating pathways of oxidative stress, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) production, inflammatory processes, and cell apoptosis, while medicinal plants and their derivatives can cause reduction in nephrotoxicity and anticancer drugs side effects via their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Oral administration of Nigella sativa oil ameliorates the effect of cisplatin on brush border membrane enzymes, carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant system in rat intestine

Cisplatin (CP) is an effective chemotherapeutic agent that induces gastrointestinal toxicity. Nigella sativa oil (NSO) has been shown to be beneficial in a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders. The present study investigates the possible protective effect of NSO on CP-induced gastrointestinal toxicity. NSO administration (2ml/kg bwt, orally), prior to and following, a single dose CP treatment (6mg/kg bwt. ip), significantly attenuated the CP-induced decrease in brush border membrane (BBM) enzyme activities in intestinal homogenates and BBM vesicles (BBMV). NSO administration also mitigated CP induced alterations in the activities of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes and in the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant parameters in the intestine. The results suggest that NSO by empowering the endogenous antioxidant system improves intestinal redox and metabolic status and restores BBM integrity in CP treated rats. Histopathological studies supported the biochemical findings. Thus, NSO may help prevent the accompanying gastrointestinal dysfunction in CP chemotherapy.

Plant-Derived Agents for Counteracting Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin (CSP) is a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used to treat a variety of malignancies. The major setback with CSP treatment is that its clinical efficacy is compromised by its induction of organ toxicity, particular to the kidneys and ears. Despite the significant strides that have been made in understanding the mechanisms underlying CSP-induced renal toxicity, advances in developing renoprotective strategies are still lacking. In addition, the renoprotective approaches described in the literature reveal partial amelioration of CSP-induced renal toxicity, stressing the need to develop potent combinatorial/synergistic agents for the mitigation of renal toxicity. However, the ideal renoprotective adjuvant should not interfere with the anticancer efficacy of CSP. In this review, we have discussed the progress made in utilizing plant-derived agents (phytochemicals) to combat CSP-induced nephrotoxicity in preclinical studies. Furthermore, we have also presented strategies to utilize phytochemicals as prototypes for the development of novel renoprotective agents for counteracting chemotherapy-induced renal damage.

Resveratrol: How Much Wine Do You Have to Drink to Stay Healthy?

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring stilbene endowed with multiple health-promoting effects. It is produced by certain plants including several dietary sources such as grapes, apples, raspberries, blueberries, plums, peanuts, and products derived therefrom (e.g., wine). Resveratrol can be isolated and purified from these biological sources or synthesized in a few steps with an overall high yield. This compound and its glucoside, the trans-polydatin piceid, have received worldwide attention for their beneficial effects on cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurodegenerative, metabolic, and age-related diseases. These health-promoting effects are particularly attractive given the prevalence of resveratrol-based nutraceuticals and the paradoxical epidemiologic observation that wine consumption is inversely correlated to the incidence of coronary heart disease. However, the notion of resveratrol as a "magic bullet" was recently challenged by clinical trials showing that this polyphenol does not have a substantial influence on health status and mortality risk. In the present review, we discuss the proposed therapeutic attributes and the mode of molecular actions of resveratrol. We also cover recent pharmacologic efforts to improve the poor bioavailability of resveratrol and influence the transition between body systems in humans. We conclude with some thoughts about future research directions that might be meaningful for resolving controversies surrounding resveratrol.

Oral administration of Nigella sativa oil ameliorates the effect of cisplatin on membrane enzymes, carbohydrate metabolism and oxidative damage in rat liver

Cisplatin (CP) is a potent anti-cancer drug widely used against solid tumors. However, it exhibits pronounced adverse effects including hepatotoxicity. Several strategies were attempted to prevent CP hepatotoxicity but were not found suitable for therapeutic application. Nigella sativa has been shown to prevent/reduce the progression of certain type of cardiovascular, kidney and liver diseases. Present study investigates whether N. sativa oil (NSO) can prevent CP induced hepatotoxic effects. Rats were divided into four groups viz. control, CP, NSO and CPNSO. Animals in CPNSO and NSO group were administered NSO (2 ml/kg bwt, orally) with or without single hepatotoxic dose of CP (6 mg/kg bwt, i.p.) respectively. CP hepatotoxicity was recorded by increased serum ALT and AST activities. CP treatment caused oxidant/antioxidant imbalances as reflected by increased lipid peroxidation and decreased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Furthermore, the activities of various carbohydrate metabolism and membrane enzymes were altered by CP treatment. In contrast, NSO administration to CP treated rats, markedly ameliorated the CP elicited deleterious alterations in liver. Histopathological observations showed extensive liver damage in CP treated animals while greatly reduced tissue injury in CPNSO group. In conclusion, NSO appears to protect CP induced hepatotoxicity by improving energy metabolism and strengthening antioxidant defense mechanism.

Redox Control of Multidrug Resistance and Its Possible Modulation by Antioxidants

Clinical efficacy of anticancer chemotherapies is dramatically hampered by multidrug resistance (MDR) dependent on inherited traits, acquired defence against toxins, and adaptive mechanisms mounting in tumours. There is overwhelming evidence that molecular events leading to MDR are regulated by redox mechanisms. For example, chemotherapeutics which overrun the first obstacle of redox-regulated cellular uptake channels (MDR1, MDR2, and MDR3) induce a concerted action of phase I/II metabolic enzymes with a temporal redox-regulated axis. This results in rapid metabolic transformation and elimination of a toxin. This metabolic axis is tightly interconnected with the inducible Nrf2-linked pathway, a key switch-on mechanism for upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes and detoxifying systems. As a result, chemotherapeutics and cytotoxic by-products of their metabolism (ROS, hydroperoxides, and aldehydes) are inactivated and MDR occurs. On the other hand, tumour cells are capable of mounting an adaptive antioxidant response against ROS produced by chemotherapeutics and host immune cells. The multiple redox-dependent mechanisms involved in MDR prompted suggesting redox-active drugs (antioxidants and prooxidants) or inhibitors of inducible antioxidant defence as a novel approach to diminish MDR. Pitfalls and progress in this direction are discussed.

The protective effect of resveratrol against cytotoxicity induced by mycotoxin, zearalenone

Zearalenone (ZEA), a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin, is widely present in cereals and agricultural products.

Protection of Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells from Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Cell Damage by Resveratrol

The mammary epithelial cells (MECs) of high-producing dairy cows are likely to be subject to oxidative stress (OS) due to the intensive cell metabolism. The objectives of this study were to investigate the cytoprotective effects of resveratrol against hydrogen peroxide- (H2O2-) induced OS in cultured bovine MECs (MAC-T). Pretreatment of MAC-T cells with resveratrol could rescue the decrease in cell viability and resulted in lower intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation after H2O2 exposure. Resveratrol helped MAC-T cells to prevent H2O2-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondria-related cell apoptosis. Moreover, resveratrol induced mRNA expression of multiple antioxidant defense genes in MAC-T cells under normal/oxidative conditions. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) was required for the cytoprotective effects on MAC-T cells by resveratrol, as knockdown of Nrf2 significantly abolished resveratrol-induced cytoprotective effects against OS. In addition, by using selective inhibitors, we further confirmed that the induction of Nrf2 by resveratrol was mediated through the prolonged activation of PI3K/Akt and ERK/MAPK pathways but negatively regulated by p38/MAPK pathway. Overall, resveratrol has beneficial effects on bovine MECs redox balance and may be potentially used as a therapeutic medicine against oxidative insult in lactating animals.

Alpha-Amanitin Poisoning, Nephrotoxicity and Oxidative Stress: An Experimental Mouse Model

BACKGROUND

Alpha-amanitin (α-AMA) plays a major role in Amanita phalloides poisoning, showing toxic effects on multi-organs, particularly on the liver and kidneys. Studies have shown a relationship between α-AMA-related injuries and reactive oxygen species.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate whether there is renal injury and its relationship with oxidative stress after intraperitoneal injection of α-AMA in mice experimental poisoning models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 37 male BALB/c laboratory mice treated with α-AMA, according to the study groups: control group (n = 7); low dose (0.2 mg/kg) (n = 10); moderate dose (0.6 mg/kg) (n = 10), and high dose (1 mg/kg) (n = 10). The sample size was detected according to the ethical committee's decision as well as similar studies in the literature. After a 48-hour follow-up period, all the subjects were sacrificed for pathological and biochemical assays. The study was held in Turkey.

RESULTS

α-AMA poisoning in mice results in inflammatory changes and necrosis in renal structures. There were statistically significant differences between the study groups regarding measured levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and malonyl dialdehyde in renal homogenates of mice (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.001, respectively). The TOS and TAS measurements helped to eliminate cumbersome analysis of diverse oxidant and antioxidant molecules. The TOS levels in renal homogenate of mice were significantly higher in all the intoxication groups compared to the control group (5.73, 7.02, 7.77, and 9.65 mmol trolox eq/g protein and P = 0.002, P = 0.001, and P = 0.001, respectively). The TAS levels in moderate and high-dose groups were significantly lower than all the other groups treated with α-AMA (0.130, 0.152, 0.065, and 0.087 mmol trolox eq/g protein and P = 0.031, P = 0.001, and P = 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that α-AMA poisoning in mice led to inflammatory changes and necrosis in renal structures. Biochemical analysis showed a shift in the oxidative/anti-oxidative balance towards the oxidative status.

Tumor inhibition effects and mechanisms of Angelica sinensis and Sophorae flavescentis ait decoction combined with cisplatin in xenograft mice

BACKGROUND

To investigate tumor inhibition effects and mechanisms of Angelica sinensis and Sophorae flavescentis ait decoction (ASSF) combined with diamine-dichloroplatinum (DDP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bodyweight, tumor inhibition rate and q value were calculated for single ASSF or ASSF combined with DDP on H22 carcinoma xenograft KM mice. Biochemical methods for serum LDH, AST, ALT, and AKP, ELISA method for serum HIF-1α, pathological assessemnt of thymus, immunohistochemistry detection of tumor tissue caspase3 and mutant p53 protein, and qRT-PCR detection of bax/ bcl-2 mRNA were applied.

RESULTS

Compared with DDP control group, the bodyweight increased in ASSF-DDP group (p<0.01). Tumor inhibition rates for DDP, ASSF, ASSF-DDP were 62.7%. 43.7% and 71.0% respectively, with a q value of 0.90. Compared with other groups, thymus of DDP control group had obvious pathological injury (p<0.01), serum LDH, AST, ALT, AKP increased significantly in DDP control group (p<0.01), while serum HIF-1α was increased in the model control group. Compared with this latter, the expression of mutant p53 protein and bcl-2 mRNA were decreased in all treatment groups (p<0.01), but there were no statistical difference between DDP control p and ASSF-DDP groups. The expression of caspase3 protein and bax mRNA was increased in all treatment groups, with statistical differences between the DDP and ASSF-DDP groups (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

ASSF can inhibit bodyweight decrease caused by DDP, can inhibit tumor growth synergistically with DDP mainly through increasing serum HIF-1α and pro-apoptotic molecules such as caspase 3 and bax, rather than through decreasing anti-apoptotic mutant p53 and bcl-2. ASSF can reduce DDP toxicity due to decreasing the release of LDH, AST, ALT, AKP into blood and enhancing thymus protection.