Resveratrol enhances neovascularization in the infarcted rat myocardium through the induction of thioredoxin-1, heme oxygenase-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor

Effects of Resveratrol on In Vivo Ovarian Cancer Cells Implanted on the Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) of a Chicken Embryo Model

Ovarian cancer poses a significant threat to patients in its advanced stages, often with limited treatment options available. In such cases, palliative management becomes the primary approach to maintaining a reasonable quality of life. Therefore, the administration of any medication that can benefit patients without a curative option holds potential. Resveratrol, a natural compound known for its in vitro anticancer activities, has generated contrasting results in vivo and human studies. In this study, we aimed to assess the anticancer effects of resveratrol on ovarian cancer cells grown on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken embryos. Two ovarian cancer cell lines, OVCAR-8 and SKOV-3, were cultured in collagen scaffolds for four days before being implanted on the CAM of chicken embryos on day 7. Different doses of resveratrol were applied to the CAM every two days for six days. Subsequently, CAM tissues were excised, fixed, and subjected to histological analysis. Some CAM tumours were extracted to analyse proteins through Western blotting. Our findings indicate that specific doses of resveratrol significantly reduce angiogenic activities, pNF-κB levels, and SLUG protein levels by using immunohistochemistry. These results suggest that resveratrol may have the potential to impact the behaviour of ovarian cancer CAM tumours, thereby warranting further consideration as a complementary treatment option for women with incurable ovarian cancer.

Resveratrol, a Multitasking Molecule That Improves Skeletal Muscle Health

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol utilized in Chinese traditional medicine and thought to be one of the determinants of the "French Paradox". More recently, some groups evidenced its properties as a calorie-restriction mimetic, suggesting that its action passes through the modulation of skeletal muscle metabolism. Accordingly, the number of studies reporting the beneficial effects of resveratrol on skeletal muscle form and function, in both experimental models and humans, is steadily increasing. Although studies on animal models confer to resveratrol a good potential to ameliorate skeletal muscle structure, function and performance, clinical trials still do not provide clear-cut information. Here, we first summarize the effects of resveratrol on the distinct components of the skeletal muscle, such as myofibers, the neuromuscular junction, tendons, connective sheaths and the capillary bed. Second, we review clinical trials focused on the analysis of skeletal muscle parameters. We suggest that the heterogeneity in the response to resveratrol in humans could depend on sample characteristics, treatment modalities and parameters analyzed; as well, this heterogeneity could possibly reside in the complexity of skeletal muscle physiology. A systematic programming of treatment protocols and analyses could be helpful to obtain consistent results in clinical trials involving resveratrol administration.

Wet adhesive hydrogel cardiac patch loaded with anti-oxidative, autophagy-regulating molecule capsules and MSCs for restoring infarcted myocardium

Hydrogel patch-based stem cell transplantation and microenvironment-regulating drug delivery strategy is promising for the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI). However, the low retention of cells and drugs limits their therapeutic efficacies. Here, we propose a prefixed sponge carpet strategy, that is, aldehyde-dextran sponge (ODS) loading anti-oxidative/autophagy-regulating molecular capsules of 2-hydroxy-β-cyclodextrin@resveratrol (HP-β-CD@Res) is first bonded to the rat's heart via capillary removal of interfacial water from the tissue surface, and the subsequent Schiff base reaction between the aldehyde groups on ODS and amino groups on myocardium tissue. Then, an aqueous biocompatible hydrazided hyaluronic acid (HHA) solution encapsulating mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is impregnated into the anchored carpet to form HHA@ODS@HP-β-CD@Res hydrogel in situ via click reaction, thus prolonging the in vivo retention time of therapeutic drug and cells. Importantly, the HHA added to outer surface consumes the remaining aldehydes to contribute to nonsticky top surface, avoiding adhesion to other tissues. The embedded HP-β-CD@Res molecular capsules with antioxidant and autophagy regulation bioactivities can considerably improve cardiac microenvironment, reduce cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and enhance the survival of transplanted MSCs, thereby promoting cardiac repair by facilitating angiogenesis and reducing cardiac fibrosis.

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Developing a wet adhesive hydrogel cardiac patch through a prefixed sponge carpet strategy.

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2-Hydroxy-β-cyclodextrin@resveratrol molecular capsules improve myocardial microenvironment.

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Post-adding of MSCs into the prefixed sponge carpet prolongs the in vivo retention time.

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The hydrogel patch loading molecular capsules and MSCs restores cardiac functions.

Vascular Protective Effect and Its Possible Mechanism of Action on Selected Active Phytocompounds: A Review

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is characterized by an imbalance of vasodilation and vasoconstriction, deficiency of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), and proinflammatory factors. This dysfunction is a key to the early pathological development of major cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Therefore, modulation of the vascular endothelium is considered an important therapeutic strategy to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system. Epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetables promotes vascular health, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This is mainly attributed to the phytochemical compounds contained in these resources. Various databases, including Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Directory of Open Access Journals, were searched to identify studies demonstrating the vascular protective effects of phytochemical compounds. The literature had revealed abundant data on phytochemical compounds protecting and improving the vascular system. Of the numerous compounds reported, curcumin, resveratrol, cyanidin-3-glucoside, berberine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and quercetin are discussed in this review to provide recent information on their vascular protective mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. Phytochemical compounds are promising therapeutic agents for vascular dysfunction due to their antioxidative mechanisms. However, future human studies will be necessary to confirm the clinical effects of these vascular protective mechanisms.

Resveratrol ameliorates myocardial fibrosis by regulating Sirt1/Smad3 deacetylation pathway in rat model with dilated cardiomyopathy

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Resveratrol (RSV) in rats with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Methods

Porcine cardiac myosin was used to set up rat model with DCM. RSV (10 mg/kg in RSV-L group and 50 mg/kg in RSV-H group) or vehicle was administered to rats with DCM once daily from the 28th day till the 90th day after the first immunization. Cardiac function of rats was evaluated by echocardiographic analysis. The deposition of fibrous tissues in the hearts was evaluated by Masson and picrosirius red staining. The mRNA levels of collagen type I (Col I), collagen type III (Col III) and silence information regulator 1 (Sirt1) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The interaction of Sirt1 with Smad3 was revealed by coimmunoprecipitation.

Results

The heart weight, heart weight/body weight ratio, left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD) were significantly increased in rats with DCM, and attenuated by RSV. RSV also positively decreased fibrosis, and the expression of Col I and Col III in the myocardium. The Sirt1 mRNA was significantly decreased in myosin-immunized hearts and was positively increased by RSV. The Sirt1 combined with Smad3 directly. Acetylation of Smad3 (Ac-Smad3) was significantly increased in DCM and was markedly decreased by RSV.

Conclusion

RSV effectively ameliorated myocardial fibrosis and improved cardiac function by regulating Sirt1/Smad3 deacetylation pathway in rat model with DCM.

Resveratrol protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury via attenuating ferroptosis

Resveratrol (Res) is a polyphenol with a variety of biological activities. However, whether Res can prevent myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is not yet known. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Res on myocardial I/R injury and to explore its potential mechanism. H9c2 cells were used for the in vitro experiments and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model was established. Rats were ligated and perfused by the left anterior descending branch with or without Res (50 mg/kg·bw) for 14 days.The higher level of oxidative stress and Fe²⁺ content was observed in OGD/R-induced H9c2 cells than that of normal cells. OGD/R-induced H9c2 cells showed increased ferroptosis, mainly by reducing the expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1), but enhancing the expression of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1). Both in vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that Res reduced the level of oxidative stress and Fe2 + content. In addition, Res inhibited ferroptosis, decreased TfR1 expression, and increased the expressions of FTH1 and GPX4 in OGD/R-induced H9c2 cells and I/R rats. Moreover, we found that Res inhibited ferroptosis by the regulation of ubiquity specific peptidase 19 (USP19)-Beclin1 autophagy. Res protects against myocardial I/R injury via reducing oxidative stress and attenuating ferroptosis. Res could be a potential agent to the prevention of myocardial I/R injury.

Resveratrol against Cardiac Fibrosis: Research Progress in Experimental Animal Models

Cardiac fibrosis is a heterogeneous disease, which is characterized by abundant proliferation of interstitial collagen, disordered arrangement, collagen network reconstruction, increased cardiac stiffness, and decreased systolic and diastolic functions, consequently developing into cardiac insufficiency. With several factors participating in and regulating the occurrence and development of cardiac fibrosis, a complex molecular mechanism underlies the disease. Moreover, cardiac fibrosis is closely related to hypertension, myocardial infarction, viral myocarditis, atherosclerosis, and diabetes, which can lead to serious complications such as heart failure, arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death, thus seriously threatening human life and health. Resveratrol, with the chemical name 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene, is a polyphenol abundantly present in grapes and red wine. It is known to prevent the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it may resist cardiac fibrosis through a variety of growth factors, cytokines, and several cell signaling pathways, thus exerting a protective effect on the heart.

A Comprehensive Analysis of the Efficacy of Resveratrol in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure

Atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction (MI) and heart failure (HF) are the main causes of mortality and morbidity around the globe. New therapies are needed to better manage ischemic heart disease and HF as existing strategies are not curative. Resveratrol is a stilbene polyphenolic compound with favorable biological effects that counter chronic diseases. Current evidence suggests that resveratrol is cardioprotective in animal models of atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, and HF. Though clinical studies for resveratrol have been promising, evidence remains inadequate to introduce it to the clinical setting. In this narrative review, we have comprehensively discussed the relevant compelling evidence regarding the efficacy of resveratrol as a new therapeutic agent for the management of atherosclerosis, MI and HF.

Resveratrol Confers Protection Against Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Increase of Angiotensin (1-7) Expression in a Rat Model of Myocardial Hypertrophy

ABSTRACT

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) makes the heart vulnerable to ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. Angiotensin (Ang) (1-7) is recognized as a cardioprotective peptide. We investigated the effect of polyphenol resveratrol on myocardial IR injury after hypertrophy and examined cardiac content of Ang (1-7) and transcription of its receptor (MasR). Rats were divided into sham-operated, LVH, IR, LVH + IR, and resveratrol + LVH + IR groups. Myocardial hypertrophy and IR models were created by abdominal aortic banding and left coronary artery occlusion, respectively. To evaluate the electrocardiogram parameters and incidence of arrhythmias, electrocardiogram was recorded by subcutaneous leads (lead II). Blood pressure was measured through the left carotid artery. Infarct size was determined by the triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. The Ang (1-7) level was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The Mas receptor mRNA level was assessed by the real-time real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique. QT-interval duration, infarct size, and incidence of ischemia-induced arrhythmia were significantly higher in the LVH + IR group. However, in the resveratrol-treated group, these parameters were decreased significantly. The cardiac level of Ang (1-7) was decreased in untreated hypertrophied hearts (LVH and LVH + IR groups). Pretreatment with resveratrol normalized the cardiac level of Ang (1-7). The mRNA level of Mas receptor was increased in all of hypertrophied hearts in the presence or absence of resveratrol. Resveratrol can decrease IR injury in rats with LVH. The anti-ischemic effect of resveratrol may be related to the enhancement of Ang (1-7)/MasR axis.

The Emerging Role of TXNIP in Ischemic and Cardiovascular Diseases; A Novel Marker and Therapeutic Target

Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) is a metabolism- oxidative- and inflammation-related marker induced in cardiovascular diseases and is believed to represent a possible link between metabolism and cellular redox status. TXNIP is a potential biomarker in cardiovascular and ischemic diseases but also a novel identified target for preventive and curative medicine. The goal of this review is to focus on the novelties concerning TXNIP. After an overview in TXNIP involvement in oxidative stress, inflammation and metabolism, the remainder of this review presents the clues used to define TXNIP as a new marker at the genetic, blood, or ischemic site level in the context of cardiovascular and ischemic diseases.

Thioredoxin and Glutaredoxin Systems as Potential Targets for the Development of New Treatments in Friedreich's Ataxia

The thioredoxin family consists of a small group of redox proteins present in all organisms and composed of thioredoxins (TRXs), glutaredoxins (GLRXs) and peroxiredoxins (PRDXs) which are found in the extracellular fluid, the cytoplasm, the mitochondria and in the nucleus with functions that include antioxidation, signaling and transcriptional control, among others. The importance of thioredoxin family proteins in neurodegenerative diseases is gaining relevance because some of these proteins have demonstrated an important role in the central nervous system by mediating neuroprotection against oxidative stress, contributing to mitochondrial function and regulating gene expression. Specifically, in the context of Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA), thioredoxin family proteins may have a special role in the regulation of Nrf2 expression and function, in Fe-S cluster metabolism, controlling the expression of genes located at the iron-response element (IRE) and probably regulating ferroptosis. Therefore, comprehension of the mechanisms that closely link thioredoxin family proteins with cellular processes affected in FRDA will serve as a cornerstone to design improved therapeutic strategies.

The Molecular Mechanisms of Iron Metabolism and Its Role in Cardiac Dysfunction and Cardioprotection

Iron is an essential mineral participating in different functions of the organism under physiological conditions. Numerous biological processes, such as oxygen and lipid metabolism, protein production, cellular respiration, and DNA synthesis, require the presence of iron, and mitochondria play an important role in the processes of iron metabolism. In addition to its physiological role, iron may be also involved in the adaptive processes of myocardial "conditioning". On the other hand, disorders of iron metabolism are involved in the pathological mechanisms of the most common human diseases and include a wide range of them, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, iron also exerts potentially deleterious effects that may be manifested under conditions of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, myocardial infarction, heart failure, coronary artery angioplasty, or heart transplantation, due to its involvement in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, iron has been recently described to participate in the mechanisms of iron-dependent cell death defined as "ferroptosis". Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death that is distinct from apoptosis, necroptosis, and other types of cell death. Ferroptosis has been shown to be associated with I/R injury and several other cardiac diseases as a significant form of cell death in cardiomyocytes. In this review, we will discuss the role of iron in cardiovascular diseases, especially in myocardial I/R injury, and protective mechanisms stimulated by different forms of "conditioning" with a special emphasis on the novel targets for cardioprotection.

Comparison of the Effect of Local and Systemic Injection of Resveratrol on Cutaneous Wound Healing in Rats

Purpose. To compare the effect of local and systemic injection of resveratrol (RSV) on open cutaneous wound healing. Materials and Methods. Open cutaneous wounds were created in adult Sprague–Dawley rats. Group 1 (n = 6) was given intraperitoneal RSV (0.5 mg/kg) once daily for 14 days. Group 2 (n = 6) was given local subcutaneous RSV (0.5 mg/kg) on the wound once daily for 14 days. Group 3 (n = 6) did not receive any pharmacologic agent. Biopsy specimens were obtained on postoperative days (PODs) 7, 14, and 21 and were examined histologically. Wound closure time was recorded. All rats were sacrificed on POD 30 for tensile strength analysis. Results. The histological scores for collagen deposition, chronic inflammation, and granulation were higher in the systemic and local RSV treatment groups than in the control group. Neovascularization scores significantly increased on PODs 14 and 21 in the local RSV treatment group compared with those in the systemic RSV and control groups. Systemic and local RSV administrations significantly enhanced wound healing and increased the tensile strength of the skin in rats. Conclusion. Local subcutaneous application of RSV may have a better therapeutic effect than the systemic application of RSV in terms of neovascularization to promote wound healing.

Long-term resveratrol treatment improves the capillarization in the skeletal muscles of ageing C57BL/6J mice

We recently showed that the treatment with Resveratrol (RES) contrasts the effects of ageing on the skeletal muscle (SKM), reduces the appearance of tubular aggregates (TAs), and improves the fatigue resistance. Since fatigue resistance depends on the SKM capillary network, and RES has been described to improve vascularisation, we analysed the SKM capillarization in naturally ageing C57BL/6J male mice, fed with 0.04% RES in the diet for 6 months, which showed a better fatigue resistance in a previous work. Our data show an inverse correlation between the number of capillaries per fibre (CAF) and TAs in both control and treated type IIB fibres, and an increase of CAF in ageing SKM upon RES-treatment. The present work suggests that capillarization is one of the determinants of the development of TAs and fatigue resistance, and that RES can be considered a good candidate to counteract capillary rarefaction in the SKM tissue.

Resveratrol and Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Focusing on the Protective Signaling Mechanisms

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common cardiovascular complication of diabetic mellitus that is characterized by diastolic disorder in the early stage and clinical heart failure in the later stage. Presently, DCM is considered one of the major causes of death in diabetic patients. Resveratrol (RSV), a naturally occurring stilbene, is widely reported as a cardioprotective substance in many heart diseases. Thus far, the specific roles of RSV in DCM prevention and treatment have attracted great attention. Here, we discuss the roles of RSV in DCM by focusing its downstream targets from both in vivo and in vitro studies. Among such targets, Sirtuins 1/3 and AMP-activated kinase have been identified as key mediators that induce cardioprotection during hyperglycemia. In addition, many other signaling molecules (e.g., forkhead box-O3a and extracellular regulated protein kinases) are also regulated in the presence of RSV and exert beneficial effects such as opposing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes exposed to high-glucose conditions. The beneficial potential of an RSV/stem cell cotherapy is also reviewed as a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing the development of DCM.

Thioredoxin1 Inactivation Mediates the Impairment of Ischemia-Induced Angiogenesis and Further Injury in Diabetic Myocardium

Diabetes mellitus (DM)-induced impairment of collateral formation has been demonstrated in subjects with coronary artery disease, which contributes to unfavorable prognosis among diabetic individuals. In our previous studies, thioredoxin1 (Trx1) activity was shown to be decreased in diabetic cardiac tissues, but the reason of Trx1 inactivation and whether it mediates the impaired angiogenesis in ischemic myocardium is still to be identified. As thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), an endogenous inhibitor of Trx, is overexpressed in DM due to carbohydrate response element within its promoter, we hypothesized that inhibition of Trx1 by enhanced TXNIP expression in endothelial cells may play a role in hyperglycemia-induced impairment of angiogenesis. In the present study, we found that high glucose-mediated increase of TXNIP expression and TXNIP-Trx1 interaction induced the impairment in endothelial cell function and survival, since these detrimental effects are rescued by silencing TXNIP with small interfering RNA. In diabetic mice, TXNIP knockdown or recombinant human Trx1 treatment counteracted the impairment of angiogenesis, alleviated myocardial ischemic injury, and improved survival rate. All these data implicate that TXNIP upregulation and subsequently the increased formation of TXNIP-Trx1 complex is a novel pathologic pathway by which DM induces insufficient angiogenesis and thereby exacerbates myocardial ischemia injury.

Impact of Red Wine Consumption on Cardiovascular Health

BACKGROUND

The devastating effects of heavy alcohol drinking have been long time recognized. In the last decades, potential benefits of modest red wine drinking were suggested. In European countries in which red wide intake is not negligible (such as France), the association between cholesterol and cardiovascular (CV) risk was less evident, suggesting the action of some protective molecules in red wine or other foods and drinks.

METHODS

This narrative review is based on the material searched for and obtained via PubMed up to May 2016. The search terms we used were: "red wine, cardiovascular, alcohol" in combination with "polyphenols, heart failure, infarction".

RESULTS

Epidemiological and mechanistic evidence of a J-shaped relationship between red wine intake and CV risk further supported the "French paradox". Specific components of red wine both in vitro and in animal models were discovered. Polyphenols and especially resveratrol largely contribute to CV prevention mainly through antioxidant properties. They exert beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction and hypertension, dyslipidemia, metabolic diseases, thus reducing the risk of adverse CV events such as myocardial infarction ischemic stroke and heart failure. Of interest, recent studies pointed out the role of ethanol itself as a potential cardioprotective agent, but a clear epidemiological evidence is still missing. The aim of this narrative review is to update current knowledge on the intracellular mechanism underlying the cardioprotective effects of polyphenols and ethanol. Furthermore, we summarized the results of epidemiological studies, emphasizing their methodological criticisms and the need for randomized clinical trials able to clarify the potential role of red wine consumption in reducing CV risk.

CONCLUSION

Caution in avowing underestimation of the global burden of alcohol-related diseases was particularly used.

Stilbenoid pterostilbene complexed with cyclodextrin preserves left ventricular function after myocardial infarction in rats: possible involvement of thiol proteins and modulation of phosphorylated GSK-3β

Oxidative stress alters signalling pathways for survival and cell death favouring the adverse remodelling of postmyocardial remnant cardiomyocytes, promoting functional impairment. The administration of pterostilbene (PTS), a phytophenol with antioxidant potential, can promote cardioprotection and represents a therapeutic alternative in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The present study aims to explore the effects of oral administration of PTS complexed with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin HPβCD (PTS:HPβCD complex) on the glutathione cycle, thiol protein activities and signalling pathways involving the protein kinase B (AKT) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) proteins in the left ventricle (LV) of infarcted rats. Animals were submitted to acute myocardial infarction through surgical ligation of the descending anterior branch of the left coronary artery and received over 8 days, by gavage, PTS:HPβCD complex at dose of 100 mg kg^-1 day^-1 (AMI + PTS group) or vehicle (aqueous solution with HPβCD) divided into Sham-operated (SHAM) and infarcted (AMI) groups. The results showed that the PBS: HPβCD complex decreased lipid peroxidation, prevented the decrease in thioredoxin reductase (TRxR) activity, and increased the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutaredoxin (GRx). Additionally, the expression of nuclear factor-erythroid two (Nrf2) and p-GSK-3β was increased, whereas the p-GSK-3β/GSK-3β ratio was reduced in the LV of the infarcted animals. Overall, the PTS:HPβCD complex modulates activity of thiol-dependent enzymes and induces to the expression of antioxidant proteins, improving systolic function and mitigating the adverse cardiac remodelling post infarction.

The role of the thioredoxin/thioredoxin reductase system in the metabolic syndrome: towards a possible prognostic marker?

Mammalian thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is a selenoprotein with three existing isoenzymes (TrxR1, TrxR2, and TrxR3), which is found primarily intracellularly but also in extracellular fluids. The main substrate thioredoxin (Trx) is similarly found (as Trx1 and Trx2) in various intracellular compartments, in blood plasma, and is the cell's major disulfide reductase. Thioredoxin reductase is necessary as a NADPH-dependent reducing agent in biochemical reactions involving Trx. Genetic and environmental factors like selenium status influence the activity of TrxR. Research shows that the Trx/TrxR system plays a significant role in the physiology of the adipose tissue, in carbohydrate metabolism, insulin production and sensitivity, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, chemotactic activity of macrophages, and atherogenesis. Based on recent research, it has been reported that the modulation of the Trx/TrxR system may be considered as a new target in the management of the metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, as well as in the treatment of hypertension and atherosclerosis. In this review evidence about a possible role of this system as a marker of the metabolic syndrome is reported.

Histological evaluation of the repair process of replanted rat teeth after storage in resveratrol dissolved in dimethyl sulphoxide

BACKGROUND/AIM

The storage media is directly related to the prognosis of avulsed teeth, with resveratrol drawing attention due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proprieties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the repair process in rat teeth following delayed replantation after storage in resveratrol (R) dissolved in dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The upper right central incisors of 36 rats were divided into 4 groups. In group I, the teeth were extracted and immediately replanted. Group II teeth were stored in 50 mL R+DMSO (0.0512 g/mL), whereas group III teeth were stored in 50 mL pure DMSO, both for a period of 60 minutes. The teeth of group IV were stored dry for 60 minutes. The teeth of groups II, III and IV were then replanted, and the animals were euthanized after 60 days. Longitudinal histological cuts were HE stained for histomorphometric analysis of the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, cementum and dentin.

RESULTS

The analysis of HE stained histological sections showed the following statistical differences: the acute inflammatory process in the epithelial insertion was less prominent in group II than in group III; the organization of the periodontal ligament was better in group I, while the intensity and extension of acute inflammation in the periodontal ligament were better in group I, and worse in group III; the chronic inflammatory infiltrate was less in groups I and IV, and the depth and extent of resorption, as well as the repair of root resorption, were better in group I.

CONCLUSIONS

Storage in R+DMSO solution did not inhibit root resorption after delayed replantation in rat teeth. It is concluded that pure DMSO is not a suitable transport medium for avulsed teeth.

Effect of resveratrol treatment on graft revascularization after islet transplantation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

We evaluated the effect of resveratrol (RSV) on graft survival after islet transplantation (ITx) in diabetic mice. Isolated islets from Balb/c mice (200 IEQ) were transplanted under the kidney capsule of diabetic Balb/c mice. Vehicle or RSV (200 mg/kg/day, orally) was given for 14 days after ITx. Two more control groups [STZ-treated (No-ITx-Control) and STZ+RSV-treated (No-ITx-RSV) mice without ITx] were added. Glucose tolerance tests (GTT) was performed at 14 days after ITx. In vitro, isolated islets pretreated with vehicle or RSV (1 μM) were incubated in a hypoxic chamber (O2 1%, 1hr). Some of the ITx was performed in mouse insulin 1 gene promoter-green fluorescent protein (MIP-GFP) transgenic mice and analyzed using an in vivo imaging system. After 14 days of ITx, 2-hr glucose levels on GTT in the RSV-treated group were significantly lower than those of other control groups. But the glucose status was not improved in No-ITx mice with RSV. At day 3, the percentage of Ki-67/insulin co-stained cells in islet graft was significantly increased in the RSV-ITx group. Immunostaining with anti-insulin and anti-BS-1 antibodies revealed significantly higher insulin-stained area and vascular density in RSV-treated islet grafts. The mean vessel volume per islet graft measured by in vivo imaging was significantly higher in the RSV-treated group at day 3. In isolated islets cultured in hypoxic conditions, the cell death rate and oxidative stress were significantly attenuated with RSV pretreatment. Hypoxic treatment for isolated islets decreased the expression of SIRT-1 mRNA, and this attenuation was recovered by RSV pretreatment. Our data suggest that RSV treatment improved glycemic control, beta-cell proliferation, reduced oxidative stress, and enhanced islet revascularization and the outcome of ITx in diabetic mice.

Resveratrol Cardioprotection Against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Involves Upregulation of Adiponectin Levels and Multimerization in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

Downregulation of adiponectin (APN) multimerization is significantly correlated with the aggravation of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Resveratrol (RSV) upregulates APN multimerization in adipocytes, but whether RSV improves endogenous APN multimerization and thus attenuates MI/R injury in T2DM mice has never been investigated. T2DM mice were treated with 10 mg/kg RSV daily for 3 weeks, followed by 30 minutes of myocardial ischemia and 3 hours or 24 hours of reperfusion. RSV administration alleviated MI/R injury in diabetic mice, as evidenced by reduced infarct size, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and caspase-3 activity, and improved cardiac function. Moreover, RSV reversed the downregulated APN levels and multimerization both in plasma and adipose tissue, accompanied by increased disulfide bond A oxidoreductase-like protein (DsbA-L) expression in T2DM mice. Conversely, serving as a key downstream molecule of APN in ameliorating MI/R injury, inhibition of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) significantly attenuated the cardioprotective effects of RSV. In conclusion, long-term administration of RSV upregulates adiponectin levels and multimerization in T2DM mice, consequently attenuating MI/R injury partially through APN-AMPK signaling.

Reactive Oxygen Species and NOX Enzymes Are Emerging as Key Players in Cutaneous Wound Repair

Our understanding of the role of oxygen in cell physiology has evolved from its long-recognized importance as an essential factor in oxidative metabolism to its recognition as an important player in cell signaling. With regard to the latter, oxygen is needed for the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which regulate a number of different cellular functions including differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and contraction. Data specifically concerning the role of ROS-dependent signaling in cutaneous wound repair are very limited, especially regarding wound contraction. In this review we provide an overview of the current literature on the role of molecular and reactive oxygen in the physiology of wound repair as well as in the pathophysiology and therapy of chronic wounds, especially under ischemic and hyperglycemic conditions.

Protective effects of Xinji'erkang on myocardial infarction induced cardiac injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major risk factor responsible for morbidity and mortality. Xinji'erkang (XJEK) has been clinically used as an effective medication in the treatment of coronary heart disease and myocarditis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective effect of Xinji'erkang on MI mice.

METHODS

Forty male mice were randomly assigned into four groups as follows (n = 10): sham, model, MI with administration of XJEK and fosinopril for four weeks. At the end of studies, hemodynamic parameters and electrocardiography (ECG) were recorded. Heart and body mass were measured and heart weight/body weight (HW/BW) ratio was calculated as index of hypertrophy. The hypertrophy of heart and aorta was examined using the hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and the collagen deposition was evaluated using Van Gieson (VG) staining. Serum nitric oxide level (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were assayed by colorimetric analysis. The expressions of endothelial NO synthetase (eNOS) expression in serum and cardiac tissues were determined using ELISA assay and immunohistochemistry. Angiotensin II (Ang II) in serum and cardiac tissues was measured using ELISA assay. Besides, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin1β (IL-1β) and interleukin10 (IL-10) were observed in cardiac tissues with ELISA assay as well.

RESULTS

The administration of XJEK significantly improved cardiac dysfunction and abnormal ECG with reduced HW/BW ratio and ameliorated cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and collagen deposition compared to MI, which was partly due to the decreased SOD and increased MDA in serum. Moreover, XJEK treatment also improved endothelial dysfunction (ED) with not only enhanced eNOS activities in serum and cardiac tissues and elevated NO levels in serum, but also decreased Ang II content in serum and cardiac tissues. Finally, protein expressions of pro-inflammation cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β in the cardiac tissues with XJEK treatment were significantly decreased compared to model. On the contrary, IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine concentrated in cardiac tissues was significantly enhanced compared to model.

CONCLUSION

Xinji'erkang exerts cardioprotective effect on myocardial infarction in mice, which may be due to the improvement of endothelial dysfunction and the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation response.

Addressing Facts and Gaps in the Phenolics Chemistry of Winery By-Products

Grape and wine phenolics display a noticeable structural diversity, encompassing distinct compounds ranging from simple molecules to oligomers, as well as polymers usually designated as tannins. Since these compounds contribute critically to the organoleptic properties of wines, their analysis and quantification are of primordial importance for winery industry operators. Besides, the occurrence of these compounds has been also extensively described in winery residues, which have been pointed as a valuable source of bioactive phytochemicals presenting potential for the development of new added value products that could fit the current market demands. Therefore, the cumulative knowledge generated during the last decades has allowed the identification of the most promising compounds displaying interesting biological functions, as well as the chemical features responsible for the observed bioactivities. In this regard, the present review explores the scope of the existing knowledge, concerning the compounds found in these winery by-products, as well as the chemical features presumably responsible for the biological functions already identified. Moreover, the present work will hopefully pave the way for further actions to develop new powerful applications to these materials, thus, contributing to more sustainable valorization procedures and the development of newly obtained compounds with enhanced biological properties.

Resveratrol activates endogenous cardiac stem cells and improves myocardial regeneration following acute myocardial infarction

Stem cell antigen-1-positive (Sca-1+) cardiac stem cells (CSCs) therapy for myocardial regeneration following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is limited by insufficient cell viability and a high rate of apoptosis, due to the poor regional microenvironment. Resveratrol, which is a compound extracted from red wine, has been reported to protect myocardial tissue post‑AMI by increasing the expression of angiogenic and chemotactic factors. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of resveratrol on Sca‑1+ CSCs, and to optimize Sca‑1+ CSCs therapy for myocardial regeneration post‑AMI. C57/BL6 mice (age, 6 weeks) were divided into two groups, which received intragastric administration of PBS or 2.5 mg/kg.d resveratrol. The endogenous expression of Sca‑1+ CSCs in the heart was assessed on day 7. Furthermore, C57/BL6 mice underwent left anterior descending coronary artery ligation for the construction of an AMI model, and received an injection of 1x106 CSCs into the peri‑ischemic area (n=8/group). Mice received intragastric administration of PBS or resveratrol (2.5 mg/kg.d) for 4 weeks after cell transplantation. Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function 4 weeks after cell transplantation. Capillary density and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in the peri‑ischemic myocardium were assessed by cluster of differentiation 31 immunofluorescent staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‑mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay, respectively. Western blot analysis was conducted to detect the protein expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stromal cell‑derived factor (SDF)‑1α in the myocardium. Treatment with resveratrol increased the number of endogenous Sca‑1+ CSCs in heart tissue after 7 days (PBS vs. Res, 1.85±0.41/field vs. 3.14±0.26/field, P<0.05). Furthermore, intragastric administration of resveratrol significantly increased left ventricle (LV) function 4 weeks after AMI, as determined by an increase in LV fractional shortening (CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 28.82±1.58% vs. 31.18±2.02%, P<0.05), reduced LV end‑diastolic diameter (CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 0.37±0.01 mm vs. 0.35±0.02 mm, P<0.05), and reduced LV end‑systolic diameter (CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 0.26±0.01 mm vs. 0.23±0.02 mm, P<0.05). These protective effects were predominantly achieved via an increase in capillary density (CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 281.02±24.08/field vs. 329.75±36.69/field, P<0.05) and a reduction in cardiomyocyte apoptosis (CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 1.5±0.54/field vs. 0.83±0.40/field, P<0.05) in peri‑ischemic myocardium. Western blot analysis indicated that VEGF and SDF‑1α were upregulated in resveratrol‑treated myocardium after a 7 day treatment or 4 weeks after AMI (7 days VEGF PBS vs. Res, 0.89±0.07 vs. 1.21±0.02, P<0.05; SDF‑1α PBS vs. Res, 0.66±0.04 vs. 1.33±0.04, P<0.05; 4 weeks VEGF CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 0.54±0.03 vs. 0.93±0.13, P<0.05; SDF‑1α CSCs vs. Res + CSCs, 0.53±0.03 vs. 0.93±0.03, P<0.05). Resveratrol activated endogenous CSCs, increased capillary density and decreased cardiomyocyte apoptosis in the peri‑ischemic myocardium, and augmented the effects of CSCs transplantation. These effects may be caused by the upregulation of VEGF and SDF‑1α.

Novel Biomarkers of Heart Failure

Although substantial improvements have been made in majority of cardiac disorders, heart failure (HF) remains a major health problem, with both increasing incidence and prevalence over the past decades. For that reason, the number of potential biomarkers that could contribute to diagnosis and treatment of HF patients is, almost exponentially, increasing over the recent years. The biomarkers that are, at the moment, more or less ready for use in everyday clinical practice, reflect different pathophysiological processes present in HF. In this review, seven groups of biomarkers associated to myocardial stretch (mid-regional proatrial natriuretic peptide, MR-proANP), myocyte injury (high-sensitive troponins, hs-cTn; heart-type fatty acid-binding protein, H-FABP; glutathione transferase P1, GSTP1), matrix remodeling (galectin-3; soluble isoform of suppression of tumorigenicity 2, sST2), inflammation (growth differentiation factor-15, GDF-15), renal dysfunction (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, NGAL; kidney injury molecule-1, KIM-1), neurohumoral activation (adrenomedullin, MR-proADM; copeptin), and oxidative stress (ceruloplasmin; myeloperoxidase, MPO; 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, 8-OHdG; thioredoxin 1, Trx1) in HF will be overviewed. It is important to note that clinical value of individual biomarkers within the single time points in both diagnosis and outcome prediction in HF is limited. Hence, the future of biomarker application in HF lies in the multimarker panel strategy, which would include specific combination of biomarkers that reflect different pathophysiological processes underlying HF.

The paradoxical pro- and antiangiogenic actions of resveratrol: therapeutic applications in cancer and diabetes

Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes, peanuts, and red wine, plays different roles in diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Existing information indicates that resveratrol provides cardioprotection, as evidenced by superior postischemic ventricular recovery, reduced myocardial infarct size, and decreased number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes associated with resveratrol treatment in animal models. Cardiovascular benefits are experienced in humans with routine but not acute consumption of red wine. In this concise review, the paradoxical pro- and antiangiogenic effects of resveratrol are described, and different roles for resveratrol in the formation of new blood vessels are explained through different mechanisms. It is hypothesized that the effects of resveratrol on different cell types are not only dependent on its concentration but also on the physical and chemical conditions surrounding cells. The findings discussed herein shed light on potential therapeutic proapoptotic and antiangiogenic applications of low-dose resveratrol treatment in the prevention and treatment of different diseases.

Resveratrol and exercise

Although it is recommended for a healthy lifestyle, moderate exercise is known to lead to oxidative stress, inflammation and muscle injury. Hence there are efforts to develop dietary strategies to counter the oxidative stress caused by physical activity. Recently, there has been an interest in the capability of resveratrol (RES) to modulate physical performance and prevent oxidative stress. Despite the inconsistency among reports regarding the topic, it has been suggested that RES delays fatigue by hindering lipid peroxidation. It is hypothesized that RES administration produces favorable effects on hepatic cell rejuvenation, exerts a regulatory effect on glucose metabolism, and preserves liver glycogen reserves that are diminished during physical activity. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the association between RES and exercise. The aim of the current review is to interpret the association between RES and exercise.

Heme Oxygenases in Cardiovascular Health and Disease

Heme oxygenases are composed of two isozymes, Hmox1 and Hmox2, that catalyze the degradation of heme to carbon monoxide (CO), ferrous iron, and biliverdin, the latter of which is subsequently converted to bilirubin. While initially considered to be waste products, CO and biliverdin/bilirubin have been shown over the last 20 years to modulate key cellular processes, such as inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, as well as antioxidant defense. This shift in paradigm has led to the importance of heme oxygenases and their products in cell physiology now being well accepted. The identification of the two human cases thus far of heme oxygenase deficiency and the generation of mice deficient in Hmox1 or Hmox2 have reiterated a role for these enzymes in both normal cell function and disease pathogenesis, especially in the context of cardiovascular disease. This review covers the current knowledge on the function of both Hmox1 and Hmox2 at both a cellular and tissue level in the cardiovascular system. Initially, the roles of heme oxygenases in vascular health and the regulation of processes central to vascular diseases are outlined, followed by an evaluation of the role(s) of Hmox1 and Hmox2 in various diseases such as atherosclerosis, intimal hyperplasia, myocardial infarction, and angiogenesis. Finally, the therapeutic potential of heme oxygenases and their products are examined in a cardiovascular disease context, with a focus on how the knowledge we have gained on these enzymes may be capitalized in future clinical studies.

B5, a thioredoxin reductase inhibitor, induces apoptosis in human cervical cancer cells by suppressing the thioredoxin system, disrupting mitochondrion-dependent pathways and triggering autophagy

The synthetic curcumin analog B5 is a potent inhibitor of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) that has potential anticancer effects. The molecular mechanism underlying B5 as an anticancer agent is not yet fully understood. In this study, we report that B5 induces apoptosis in two human cervical cancer cell lines, CaSki and SiHa, as evidenced by the downregulation of XIAP, activation of caspases and cleavage of PARP. The involvement of the mitochondrial pathway in B5-induced apoptosis was suggested by the dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential and increased expression of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins. In B5-treated cells, TrxR activity was markedly inhibited with concomitant accumulation of oxidized thioredoxin, increased formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and activation of ASK1 and its downstream regulatory target p38/JNK. B5-induced apoptosis was significantly inhibited in the presence of N-acetyl-l-cysteine. Microscopic examination of B5-treated cells revealed increased presence of cytoplasmic vacuoles. The ability of B5 to activate autophagy in cells was subsequently confirmed by cell staining with acridine orange, accumulation of LC3-II, and measurement of autophagic flux. Unlike B5-induced apoptosis, autophagy induced by B5 is not ROS-mediated but a role for the AKT and AMPK signaling pathways is implied. In SiHa cells but not CaSki cells, B5-induced apoptosis was promoted by autophagy. These data suggest that the anticarcinogenic effects of B5 is mediated by complex interplay between cellular mechanisms governing redox homeostasis, apoptosis and autophagy.

Resveratrol and Cardiovascular Diseases

The increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) has stimulated research for substances that could improve cardiovascular health. Among them, resveratrol (RES), a polyphenolic compound notably present in grapes and red wine, has been involved in the “French paradox”. RES is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and for its ability to upregulate endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). RES was able to scavenge ^•OH/O₂^•− and peroxyl radicals, which can limit the lipid peroxidation processes. Moreover, in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) under glucose-induced oxidative stress, RES restored the activity of dimethylargininedimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH), an enzyme that degrades an endogenous inhibitor of eNOS named asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). Thus, RES could improve ^•NO availability and decrease the endothelial dysfunction observed in diabetes. Preclinical studies have made it possible to identify molecular targets (SIRT-1, AMPK, Nrf2, NFκB…); however, there are limited human clinical trials, and difficulties in the interpretation of results arise from the use of high-dose RES supplements in research studies, whereas low RES concentrations are present in red wine. The discussions on potential beneficial effects of RES in CVDs (atherosclerosis, hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure) should compare the results of preclinical studies with those of clinical trials.

Polyphenols: Potential source of drugs for the treatment of ischaemic heart disease

Polyphenols, which are naturally present in plants, have been studied for their chemical and pharmacological properties. Polyphenols have been found to exhibit various bioactivities such as antioxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects, in addition to regulating the intracellular free calcium levels. These bioactivities are related to the underlying mechanisms of ischaemic heart diseases. Pharmacological studies have proven polyphenols to be effective in treating cardiovascular diseases in various ways, particularly ischaemic heart diseases. Based on their mode of action, we propose that some polyphenols can be developed as drugs to treat ischaemic heart diseases. For this purpose, a strategy to evaluate the therapeutic value of drugs for ischaemic heart diseases is needed. Despite several advances in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), the incidence of myocardial infarction and deaths due to cardiovascular diseases has not decreased markedly in China. Due to their pleiotropic properties and structural diversity, polyphenols have been of great interest in pharmacology. In the present review, we summarize the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of polyphenols reported after 2000, and we analyse the benefits or druggability of these compounds for ischaemic heart diseases.

Role of thioredoxin-1 in ischemic preconditioning, postconditioning and aged ischemic hearts

Thioredoxin is one of the most important cellular antioxidant systems known to date, and is responsible of maintaining the reduced state of the intracellular space. Trx-1 is a small cytosolic protein whose transcription is induced by stress. Therefore it is possible that this antioxidant plays a protective role against the oxidative stress caused by an increase of reactive oxygen species concentration, as occurs during the reperfusion after an ischemic episode. However, in addition to its antioxidant properties, it is able to activate other cytoplasmic and nuclear mediators that confer cardioprotection. It is remarkable that Trx-1 also participates in myocardial protection mechanisms such as ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning, activating proteins related to cellular survival. In this sense, it has been shown that Trx-1 inhibition abolished the preconditioning cardioprotective effect, evidenced through apoptosis and infarct size. Furthermore, ischemic postconditioning preserves Trx-1 content at reperfusion, after ischemia. However, comorbidities such as aging can modify this powerful cellular defense leading to decrease cardioprotection. Even ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning protocols performed in aged animal models failed to decrease infarct size. Therefore, the lack of success of antioxidants therapies to treat ischemic heart disease could be solved, at least in part, avoiding the damage of Trx system.

Thioredoxin superfamily and its effects on cardiac physiology and pathology

A precise control of oxidation/reduction of protein thiols is essential for intact cardiac physiology. Irreversible oxidative modifications have been proposed to play a role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. An imbalance of redox homeostasis with diminution of antioxidant capacities predisposes the heart to oxidant injury. There is growing interest in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the cardiovascular field, since perturbation of redox homeostasis in the ER is sufficient to cause ER stress. Because a number of human diseases are related to altered redox homeostasis and defects in protein folding, many research efforts have been devoted in recent years to understanding the structure and enzymatic properties of the thioredoxin superfamily. The thioredoxin superfamily has been well documented as thiol oxidoreductases to exert a role in various cell signaling pathways. The redox properties of the thioredoxin motif account for the different functions of several members of the thioredoxin superfamily. While thioredoxin and glutaredoxin primarily act as antioxidants by reducing protein disulfides and mixed disulfide, another member of the superfamily, protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), can act as an oxidant by forming intrachain disulfide bonds that contribute to proper protein folding. Increasing evidence suggests a pivotal role of PDI in the survival pathway that promotes cardiomyocyte survival and leads to more favorable cardiac remodeling. Thus, the thiol redox state is important for cellular redox signaling and survival pathway in the heart. This review summarizes the key features of major members of the thioredoxin superfamily directly involved in cardiac physiology and pathology.

Resveratrol alleviate hypoxic pulmonary hypertension via anti-inflammation and anti-oxidant pathways in rats

Resveratrol, a plant-derived polyphenolic compound and a phytoestrogen, was shown to possess multiple protective effects including anti-inflammatory response and anti-oxidative stress. Hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH) is a progressive disease characterized by sustained vascular resistance and marked pulmonary vascular remodeling. The exact mechanisms of HPH are still unclear, but inflammatory response and oxidative stress was demonstrated to participate in the progression of HPH. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of resveratrol on HPH development. Sprague-Dawley rats were challenged by hypoxia exposure for 28 days to mimic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension along with treating resveratrol (40 mg/kg/day). Hemodynamic and pulmonary pathomorphology data were then obtained, and the anti-proliferation effect of resveratrol was determined by in vitro assays. The anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative effects of resveratrol were investigated in vivo and in vitro. The present study showed that resveratrol treatment alleviated right ventricular systolic pressure and pulmonary arterial remodeling induced by hypoxia. In vitro experiments showed that resveratrol notably inhibited proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells in an ER-independent manner. Data showed that resveratrol administration inhibited HIF-1 α expression in vivo and in vitro, suppressed inflammatory cells infiltration around the pulmonary arteries, and decreased ROS production induced by hypoxia in PAMSCs. The inflammatory cytokines' mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, and interleukin 1β were all suppressed by resveratrol treatment. The in vitro assays showed that resveratrol inhibited the expression of HIF-1 α via suppressing the MAPK/ERK1 and PI3K/AKT pathways. The antioxidant axis of Nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2/ Thioredoxin 1 (Nrf-2/Trx-1) was up-regulated both in lung tissues and in cultured PASMCs. In general, the current study demonstrated that resveratrol may prevent pulmonary hypertension through its anti-proliferation, anti-inflammation and antioxidant effects. Hence, the present data may offer novel targets and promising pharmacological perspective for treating hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.

Antioxidants in Translational Medicine

SIGNIFICANCE

It is generally accepted that reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging molecules or antioxidants exert health-promoting effects and thus their consumption as food additives and nutraceuticals has been greatly encouraged. Antioxidants may be beneficial in situations of subclinical deficiency and increased demand or acutely upon high-dose infusion. However, to date, there is little clinical evidence for the long-term benefit of most antioxidants. Alarmingly, recent evidence points even to health risks, in particular for supplements of lipophilic antioxidants.

RECENT ADVANCES

The biological impact of ROS depends not only on their quantities but also on their chemical nature, (sub)cellular and tissue location, and the rates of their formation and degradation. Moreover, ROS serve important physiological functions; thus, inappropriate removal of ROS may cause paradoxical reductive stress and thereby induce or promote disease.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Any recommendation on antioxidants must be based on solid clinical evidence and patient-relevant outcomes rather than surrogate parameters.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Such evidence-based use may include site-directed application, time-limited high dosing, (functional) pharmacological repair of oxidized biomolecules, and triggers of endogenous antioxidant response systems. Ideally, these approaches need guidance by patient stratification through predictive biomarkers and possibly imaging modalities.

Resveratrol Inhibits Hypoxia-Induced Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression and Pathological Neovascularization

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of resveratrol on the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human adult retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells, and on experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ARPE-19 cells were treated with different concentrations of resveratrol and then incubated under hypoxic conditions with subsequent evaluation of cell viability, expression of HIF-1α, and expression of VEGF. The effects of resveratrol on the synthesis and degradation of hypoxia-induced HIF-1α were evaluated using inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and the ubiquitin proteasome pathways. In animal studies, CNV lesions were induced in C57BL/6 mice by laser photocoagulation. After 7 days of oral administration of resveratrol or vehicle, which began one day after CNV induction, image analysis was used to measure CNV areas on choroidal flat mounts stained with isolectin IB4.

RESULTS

In ARPE-19 cells, resveratrol significantly inhibited HIF-1α and VEGF in a dose-dependent manner, by blocking the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and by promoting proteasomal HIF-1α degradation. In mice experiments, orally administered resveratrol significantly inhibited CNV growth in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol may have therapeutic value in the management of diseases involving pathological neovascularization.

Nicorandil enhances the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in isoproterenol-induced heart failure in rats

Stem cell transplantation has emerged as a promising technique for regenerative medicine in cardiovascular therapeutics. However, the results have been less than optimal. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether nicorandil could offer an additional benefit over bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy in isoproterenol-induced myocardial damage and its progression to heart failure in rats. Isoproterenol was injected subcutaneously for 2 consecutive days at doses of 85 and 170 mg/kg/day, respectively. Nicorandil (3 mg/kg/day) was then given orally with or without a single intravenous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell administration. Electrocardiography and echocardiography were recorded 2 weeks after the beginning of treatment. Rats were then sacrificed and the ventricle was isolated for estimation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor and transforming growth factor-beta. Moreover, protein expressions of caspase-3, connexin-43 as well as endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthases were evaluated. Finally, histological studies of myocardial fibrosis and blood vessel density were performed and cryosections were done for estimation cell homing. Combined nicorandil/bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy provided an additional improvement compared to cell therapy alone toward reducing isoproterenol-induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation. Notably, combined therapy induced significant increase in angiogenesis and cell homing and prevented isoproterenol-induced changes in contractility and apoptotic markers. In conclusion, combined nicorandil/bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy was superior to cell therapy alone toward preventing isoproterenol-induced heart failure in rats through creation of a supportive environment for mesenchymal stem cells.

Phytochemical Compounds and Protection from Cardiovascular Diseases: A State of the Art

Cardiovascular diseases represent a worldwide relevant socioeconomical problem. Cardiovascular disease prevention relies also on lifestyle changes, including dietary habits. The cardioprotective effects of several foods and dietary supplements in both animal models and in humans have been explored. It was found that beneficial effects are mainly dependent on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, also involving modulation of mitochondrial function. Resveratrol is one of the most studied phytochemical compounds and it is provided with several benefits in cardiovascular diseases as well as in other pathological conditions (such as cancer). Other relevant compounds are Brassica oleracea, curcumin, and berberine, and they all exert beneficial effects in several diseases. In the attempt to provide a comprehensive reference tool for both researchers and clinicians, we summarized in the present paper the existing literature on both preclinical and clinical cardioprotective effects of each mentioned phytochemical. We structured the discussion of each compound by analyzing, first, its cellular molecular targets of action, subsequently focusing on results from applications in both ex vivo and in vivo models, finally discussing the relevance of the compound in the context of human diseases.

An overview of the efficacy of resveratrol in the management of ischemic heart disease

Ischemic heart disease is a leading cause of cardiac dysfunction and subsequent morbidity and mortality around the world. New therapies are required to complement or enhance the existing treatment regimen for the management of ischemic heart disease-related clinical complications. In this regard, compounds derived from natural sources have recently gained attention for their cardioprotective properties. In particular, the potential of food-derived compounds that exhibit medicinal properties (termed nutraceuticals) appears promising, an example being the plant polyphenol resveratrol. In the past two decades, many preclinical and a few pilot clinical studies have shown that resveratrol is beneficial in protecting against cardiovascular disease. In this short review, we will discuss current evidence on the efficacy of resveratrol in preventing or reversing deleterious effects on the heart in the setting of ischemic heart disease.

Therapeutic potential of resveratrol in heart failure

Despite existing therapies, patients with heart failure have a very poor quality of life and a high 1-year mortality rate. Given the impact of this syndrome on health outcomes, research is being directed toward identifying novel strategies to treat heart failure symptoms as well as to prolong survival. One molecule that has been tested in animal models for this purpose is resveratrol. Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol found in several plants, and administration of resveratrol has been shown to prevent and/or slow the progression of heart failure in animal models of heart failure induced by myocardial infarction, pressure overload, myocarditis, and chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. In addition, some animal studies have shown that resveratrol improves cardiac function and survival when administered as a treatment for established heart failure. Furthermore, as heart failure induces alterations in skeletal muscle and vasculature that also contribute to certain heart failure symptoms, such as fatigue and exercise intolerance, it has also been shown that resveratrol acts on these peripheral tissues to improve skeletal muscle and endothelial/vascular function. Therefore, if these animal studies translate to humans, resveratrol may prove to be a novel therapy for the treatment of heart failure.

Mesenchymal stem cell-based HSP70 promoter-driven VEGFA induction by resveratrol promotes angiogenesis in a mouse model

Several studies of stem cell-based gene therapy have indicated that long-lasting regeneration following vessel ischemia may be stimulated through VEGFA gene therapy and/or MSC transplantation for reduction of ischemic injury in limb ischemia and heart failure. The therapeutic potential of MSC transplantation can be further improved by genetically modifying MSCs with genes which enhance angiogenesis following ischemic injury. In the present study, we aimed to develop an approach in MSC-based therapy for repair and mitigation of ischemic injury and regeneration of damaged tissues in ischemic disease. HSP70 promoter-driven VEGFA expression was induced by resveratrol (RSV) in MSCs, and in combination with known RSV biological functions, the protective effects of our approach were investigated by using ex vivo aortic ring coculture system and a 3D scaffolds in vivo model. Results of this investigation demonstrated that HSP promoter-driven VEGFA expression in MSC increased approximately 2-fold over the background VEGFA levels upon HSP70 promoter induction by RSV. Exposure of HUVEC cells to medium containing MSC in which VEGFA had been induced by cis-RSV enhanced tube formation in the treated HUVEC cells. RSV-treated MSC cells differentiated into endothelial-like phenotypes, exhibiting markedly elevated expression of endothelial cell markers. These MSCs also induced aortic ring sprouting, characteristic of neovascular formation from pre-existing vessels, and additionally promoted neovascularization at the MSC transplantation site in a mouse model. These observations support a hypothesis that VEGFA expression induced by cis-RSV acting on the HSP70 promoter in transplanted MSC augments the angiogenic effects of stem cell gene therapy. The use of an inducible system also vastly reduces possible clinical risks associated with constitutive VEGFA expression.

Impact of caloric restriction on myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and new therapeutic options to mimic its effects

Caloric restriction (CR) is the most reliable intervention to extend lifespan and prevent age-related disorders in various species from yeast to rodents. Short- and long-term CR confers cardio protection against ischaemia/reperfusion injury in young and even in aged rodents. A few human trials suggest that CR has the potential to mediate improvement of cardiac or vascular function and induce retardation of cardiac senescence also in humans. The underlying mechanisms are diverse and have not yet been clearly defined. Among the known mediators for the benefits of CR are NO, the AMP-activated PK, sirtuins and adiponectin. Mitochondria, which play a central role in such complex processes within the cell as apoptosis, ATP-production or oxidative stress, are centrally involved in many aspects of CR-induced protection against ischaemic injury. Here, we discuss the relevant literature regarding the protection against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury conferred by CR. Furthermore, we will discuss drug targets to mimic CR and the possible role of calorie restriction in preserving cardiovascular function in humans.