Sesamin alleviates blood-brain barrier disruption in mice with experimental traumatic brain injury

Activation of Wnt signaling mitigates blood-brain barrier disruption by inhibiting vesicular transcytosis after traumatic brain injury in mice

Elevated transport of Caveolin-1 (CAV-1) vesicles within vascular endothelial cells constitutes a significant secondary pathogenic event contributing to the compromise of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) post-traumatic brain injury (TBI). While Wnt/β-catenin signaling is recognized for its critical involvement in angiogenesis and the maintenance of BBB integrity, its influence on vascular endothelial transcytosis in the aftermath of TBI is not well-defined. This study aims to elucidate the impact of Wnt/β-catenin signaling on cerebrovascular vesicular transcytosis following TBI. In this experiment, adult male wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 mice underwent various interventions. TBI was induced utilizing the controlled cortical impact technique. Post-TBI, mice were administered either an inhibitor or an agonist of Wnt signaling via intraperitoneal injection. Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) was administered intracerebroventricularly to modulate the expression of the CAV-1 inhibitory protein, Major facilitator superfamily domain-containing 2a (Mfsd2a). This research utilized Evans blue assay, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, and neurobehavioral assessments. Post-TBI observations revealed substantial increases in macromolecule (Evans blue and albumin) leakage, CAV-1 transport vesicle count, astrocyte end-feet edema, and augmented aquaporin-4 (AQP4) expression, culminating in BBB disruption. The findings indicate that Wnt signaling pathway inhibition escalates CAV-1 transport vesicle activity and aggravates BBB compromise. Conversely, activating this pathway could alleviate BBB damage by curtailing CAV-1 vesicle presence. Post-TBI, there is a diminution in Mfsd2a expression, which is directly influenced by the modulation of WNT signals. Employing a viral approach to regulate Mfsd2a, we established that its down-regulation undermines the protective benefits derived from reducing CAV-1 transport vesicles through WNT signal enhancement. Moreover, we verified that the WNT signaling agonist LiCl notably ameliorates neurological deficits following TBI in mice. Collectively, our data imply that Wnt/β-catenin signaling presents a potential therapeutic target for safeguarding against BBB damage and enhancing neurological function after TBI.

The protective role of sesame oil against Parkinson's-like disease induced by manganese in rats

Chronic exposure to manganese (Mn) results in motor dysfunction, biochemical and pathological alterations in the brain. Oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysfunction of dopaminergic and GABAergic systems stimulate activating transcription factor-6 (ATF-6) and protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) leading to apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of sesame oil (SO) against Mn-induced neurotoxicity. Rats received 25 mg/kg MnCl2 and were concomitantly treated with 2.5, 5, or 8 ml/kg of SO for 5 weeks. Mn-induced motor dysfunction was indicated by significant decreases in the time taken by rats to fall during the rotarod test and in the number of movements observed during the open field test. Also, Mn resulted in neuronal degeneration as observed by histological staining. The striatal levels of lipid peroxides and reduced glutathione (oxidative stress markers), interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (inflammatory markers) were significantly elevated. Mn significantly reduced the levels of dopamine and Bcl-2, while GABA, PERK, ATF-6, Bax, and caspase-3 were increased. Interestingly, all SO doses, especially at 8 ml/kg, significantly improved locomotor activity, biochemical deviations and reduced neuronal degeneration. In conclusion, SO may provide potential therapeutic benefits in enhancing motor performance and promoting neuronal survival in individuals highly exposed to Mn.

Protective Effects of Plant-Derived Compounds Against Traumatic Brain Injury

Inflammation in the nervous system is one of the key features of many neurodegenerative diseases. It is increasingly being identified as a critical pathophysiological primitive mechanism associated with chronic neurodegenerative diseases following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Phytochemicals have a wide range of clinical properties due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Currently, there are few drugs available for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases other than symptomatic relief. Numerous studies have shown that plant-derived compounds, in particular polyphenols, protect against various neurodegenerative diseases and are safe for consumption. Polyphenols exert protective effects on TBI via restoration of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), and Nod-like receptor family proteins (NLRPs) pathways. In addition, these phytochemicals and their derivatives upregulate the phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways, which have critical functions in modulating TBI symptoms. There is supporting evidence that medicinal plants and phytochemicals are protective in different TBI models, though future clinical trials are needed to clarify the precise mechanisms and functions of different polyphenolic compounds in TBI.

Negative Association of Lignan and Phytosterol Intake with Stress Perception during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Polish Study on Young Adults

BACKGROUND

There has been an increasing global prevalence of depression and other psychiatric diseases in recent years. Perceived stress has been proven to be associated with psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Some animal and human studies have suggested that consuming foods abundant in lignans and phytosterols may be associated with lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Still, the evidence is not yet strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Thus, we investigated the association between dietary intake of these phytochemicals and the level of stress experienced by adult individuals.

METHODS

Diet was assessed using self-reported 7-day dietary records. The intakes of lignans and phytosterols were estimated using databases with their content in various food products. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was implemented to measure the level of perceived stress. A logistic regression analysis was used to test for associations.

RESULTS

The odds of elevated PSS were negatively associated with dietary intake of total phytosterols, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol, with evidence of a decreasing trend across tertiles of phytochemicals. The analysis for doubling the intake reinforced the aforementioned relationships and found protective effects against PSS for total lignans, pinoresinol, and campesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

Habitual inclusion of lignans and phytosterols in the diet may play a role in psychological health. To address the global outbreak of depression and other mental health issues triggered by stress, it is important to take a holistic approach. There is a need to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment, among which certain dietary interventions such as consumption of products abundant in lignans and phytosterols may play a substantial role.

Sesamin mitigates lead-induced behavioral deficits in male rats: The role of oxidative stress

Lead (Pb) is a well-known toxic pollutant that has negative effects on behavioral functions. Sesamin, a phytonutrient of the lignan class, has shown neuroprotective effects in various neurological disorder models. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the putative protective effects of sesamin against Pb-induced behavioral deficits and to identify the role of oxidative stress in male rats. The rats were exposed to 500 ppm of Pb acetate in their drinking water and simultaneously treated orally with sesamin at a dose of 30 mg/kg/day for eight consecutive weeks. Standard behavioral paradigms were used to assess the behavioral functions of the animals during the eighth week of the study. Subsequently, oxidative stress factors were evaluated in both the cerebral cortex and hippocampal regions of the rats. The results of this study showed that Pb exposure triggered anxiety-/depression-like behaviors and impaired object recognition memory, but locomotor activity was indistinguishable from the normal control rats. These behavioral deficiencies were associated with suppressed enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels, and enhanced lipid peroxidation in the investigated brain regions. Notably, correlations were detected between behavioral deficits and oxidative stress generation in the Pb-exposed rats. Interestingly, sesamin treatment mitigated anxio-depressive-like behaviors, ameliorated object recognition memory impairment, and modulated oxidative-antioxidative status in the rats exposed to Pb. The results suggest that the anti-oxidative properties of sesamin may be one of the underlying mechanisms behind its beneficial effect in ameliorating behavioral deficits associated with Pb exposure.

Lignans as multi-targeted natural products in neurodegenerative diseases and depression: Recent perspectives

As the global population ages, the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is becoming more and more important. There is an urgent need to discover novel drugs that are effective in treating neurological diseases. In recent years, natural products and their biological activities have gained widespread attention. Lignans are a class of metabolites extensively present in Chinese herbal medicine and possess good pharmacological effects. Latest studies have demonstrated their neuroprotective pharmacological activity in preventing acute/chronic neurodegenerative diseases and depression. In this review, the pharmacological effects of these disorders, the pharmacokinetics, safety, and clinical trials of lignans were summarized according to the scientific literature. These results proved that lignans mainly exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Anti-apoptosis, regulation of nervous system functions, and modulation of synaptic signals are also potential effects. Despite the substantial evidence of the neuroprotective potential of lignans, it is not sufficient to support their use in the clinical management. Our study suggests that lignans can be used as prospective agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and depression, with a view to informing their further development and utilization.

Antioxidant theranostic copolymer-mediated reduction in oxidative stress following traumatic brain injury improves outcome in a mouse model

Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI), excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation products (LPOx) are generated and lead to secondary injury beyond the primary insult. A major limitation of current treatments is poor target engagement, which has prevented success in clinical trials. Thus, nanoparticle-based treatments have received recent attention because of their ability to increase accumulation and retention in damaged brain. Theranostic neuroprotective copolymers (NPC3) containing thiol functional groups can neutralize ROS and LPOx. Immediate administration of NPC3 following injury in a controlled cortical impact (CCI) mouse model provides a therapeutic window in reducing ROS levels at 2.08-20.83 mg/kg in males and 5.52-27.62 mg/kg in females. This NPC3-mediated reduction in oxidative stress improves spatial learning and memory in males, while females show minimal improvement. Notably, NPC3-mediated reduction in oxidative stress prevents the bilateral spread of necrosis in male mice, which was not observed in female mice and likely accounts for the sex-based spatial learning and memory differences. Overall, these findings suggest sex-based differences to oxidative stress scavenger nanoparticle treatments, and a possible upper threshold of antioxidant activity that provides therapeutic benefit in injured brain since female mice benefit from NPC3 treatment to a lesser extent than male mice.

Fucoxanthin ameliorates traumatic brain injury by suppressing the blood-brain barrier disruption

Fucoxanthin is the most abundant marine carotenoid extracted from seaweed. Our previous study has shown that fucoxanthin inhibited oxidative stress after traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the effects of fucoxanthin on TBI-induced blood-brain barrier (BBB) destruction have not been well understood. In the present study, we found that fucoxanthin improved neurological dysfunction, reduced brain edema, attenuated cortical lesion volume, and decreased dendrites loss after TBI in vivo. Moreover, fucoxanthin suppressed BBB leakage, preserved tight junction (TJ) and adherens junction (AJ) proteins, and inhibited MMP-9 expression. Furthermore, fucoxanthin alleviated apoptosis and ferroptosis, and activated mitophagy in endothelial cells (ECs) after TBI. However, the protection of fucoxanthin on BBB was attenuated when mitophagy was inhibited. Importantly, fucoxanthin also provided protective effects in bEnd.3 cells after TBI. Taken together, our results suggested that fucoxanthin played a key role in the protection of BBB after TBI through mitophagy.

Utilizing Nutritional and Polyphenolic Compounds in Underutilized Plant Seeds for Health Application

Plants represent a significant part of the human diet. Humans have utilized every part of plants for survival, and seeds are no exception. Seeds offer high protein, unsaturated fats, fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals for various food applications. They are also a promising reservoir of bioactive compounds, where various phytochemicals, such as polyphenolic compounds, capable of maintaining and improving well-being, are present in abundant quantities. Plants from Malvaceae and Cannabaceae families are known for their fibre-rich stems that benefit humankind by serving numerous purposes. For many centuries they have been exploited extensively for various commercial and industrial uses. Their seeds, which are often regarded as a by-product of fibre processing, have been scientifically discovered to have an essential role in combating hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, cancer, and oxidative stress. Maximizing the use of these agricultural wastes can be a promising approach to creating a more sustainable world, in accordance with the concept of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MicroRNA-223 Attenuates Stretch-Injury-Induced Apoptosis in Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells by Regulating RhoB Expression

MiR-223 is a miRNA with important functions in apoptosis, carcinogenesis, and inflammation, and it was demonstrated to be over-expressed in brain tissue after traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, few studies have focused on its role in protecting brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs). This study evaluated the protective effect of miR-223 on BMECs after stretch injury (SI). bEnd.3 cells (BMECs of mouse) were transfected with overexpressing and blocking lentivirus of miR-223, then were subjected to SI. After immunofluorescence assay, it was demonstrated that miR-223 overexpression significantly rescued the SI-induced loss of ZO-1 (Zonula Occludens 1, tight junction protein) (p < 0.01), while miR-223 blocking exacerbated the loss of ZO-1 (p < 0.05). Flow cytometry confirmed a significant increase in the proportion of apoptotic bEnd.3 cells after SI, and miR-223 overexpression reduced this proportion (p < 0.001). The result of Western blot revealed that miR-223 overexpression significantly reduced the expression of cleaved caspase-3 (cl-caspase 3) (p < 0.05) and RhoB (p < 0.01), while miR-223 blocking increased the expression of these proteins (p < 0.05, p < 0.001). Additionally, knockdown of RhoB significantly reduced the expression of cl-caspase 3 (p < 0.001). These findings suggested that miR-223 can alleviate SI-induced apoptosis of BMECs, and this anti-apoptotic effect is at least partially achieved by inhibiting the expression of RhoB. Moreover, miR-223 may play a role in maintaining the integrity of BBB during TBI.

Formic acid induces hypertension-related hemorrhage in hSSAOTG in mice and human

Hypertension is a confirmed risk factor for cerebral hemorrhage in humans. Which endogenous factor directly induces hypertension-related hemorrhage is unclear. In this study, 42 hemorrhagic patients with hypertension and hyperlipidemia and 42 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. The contents of serum semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (SSAO) and formic acid (FC, FC is a final product of SSAO through the oxidation of endogenous formaldehyde, which results from the enzymatic oxidative deamination of the SSAO substrate, methylamine) were examined in the patients after stroke. Hemorrhagic areas were quantified by computer tomography. In the animal study, hemorrhagic degree was assessed by hemotoxylin & eosin or tissue hemoglobin kits. The relationship between FC and blood pressure/hemorrhagic degree was examined in wild-type mice and hSSAO^TG mice fed with high-fat diets or high-fat and -salt diets. The results showed that the levels of serum FC were positively correlated with blood pressure and hemorrhagic areas in hemorrhagic patients. Transfection of microRNA-134 could enhance SSAO expression in human vascular smooth muscle cells. Consistently, after treatment with high-fat and -salt diets, hSSAO^TG mice exhibited higher levels of miR134 and FC, higher blood pressure, and more severe hemorrhage than wild-type mice. Interestingly, folic acid reduced hypertension and hemorrhage in hSSAO^TG mice fed with high-fat diets. These findings suggest that FC is a crucial endogenous factor for hypertension and hemorrhage.

Sesamin: Insights into its protective effects against lead-induced learning and memory deficits in rats

BACKGROUND

Lead (Pb) is one of the most hazardous pollutants that induce a wide spectrum of neurological changes such as learning and memory deficits. Sesamin, a phytonutrient of the lignan class, exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective properties. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of sesamin against Pb-induced learning and memory deficits, disruption of hippocampal theta and gamma rhythms, inflammatory response, inhibition of blood δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALA-D) activity, Pb accumulation, and neuronal loss in rats.

METHODS

Sesamin treatment (30 mg/kg/day; P.O.) was started simultaneously with Pb acetate exposure (500 ppm in standard drinking water) in rats, and they continued for eight consecutive weeks.

RESULTS

The results showed that chronic exposure to Pb disrupted the learning and memory functions in both passive-avoidance and water-maze tests, which was accompanied by increase in spectral theta power and theta/gamma ratio, and a decrease in spectral gamma power in the hippocampus. Additionally, Pb exposure resulted in an enhanced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) content, decreased interleukin-10 (IL-10) production, inhibited blood δ-ALA-D activity, increased Pb accumulation, and neuronal loss of rats. In contrast, sesamin treatment improved all the above-mentioned Pb-induced pathological changes.

CONCLUSION

This data suggests that sesamin could improve Pb-induced learning and memory deficits, possibly through amelioration of hippocampal theta and gamma rhythms, modulation of inflammatory status, restoration of the blood δ-ALA-D activity, reduction of Pb accumulation in the blood and the brain tissues, and prevention of neuronal loss.

Management of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in Pediatric Patients

The optimal management of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the pediatric population has not been well studied. There are a limited number of research articles studying the management of TBI in children. Given the prevalence of severe TBI in the pediatric population, it is crucial to develop a reference TBI management plan for this vulnerable population. In this review, we seek to delineate the differences between severe TBI management in adults and children. Additionally, we also discuss the known molecular pathogenesis of TBI. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI will inform clinical management and development of therapeutics. Finally, we propose a clinical algorithm for the management and treatment of severe TBI in children using published data.

Ferroptosis in brain microvascular endothelial cells mediates blood-brain barrier disruption after traumatic brain injury

Ferroptosis is a newly recognized form of regulated cell death. Recently, growing evidence has shown that ferroptosis is involved in the pathogenesis of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, less attention has been paid to its role in brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs) and blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage, the central pathological process in secondary brain injury of TBI. Here, we established a mechanical stretch injury bEnd.3 model and a Controlled Cortical Impact (CCI) mouse model to explore the ferroptosis-related markers in brain endothelial cells after TBI in vitro and in vivo. From the results of RNA-seq analysis, RT-qPCR and immunostaining, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) downregulation, Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) upregulation, and iron accumulation were observed in brain endothelial cells after TBI both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we utilized Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a specific inhibitor of ferroptosis, to investigate the protective effects of ferroptosis inhibition on BBB disruption and neurological deficits. From the results of immunostaining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and western blotting, we demonstrated that Fer-1 significantly reduced BMVECs death, BBB permeability, and tight junction loss at 3 days after TBI. The neurological tests including grid walking, rotarod test, and wire-hanging test showed that Fer-1 administration exerted neuroprotective effects in the early stage of TBI. Our findings provided evidences for inhibition of BMVECs ferroptosis as a promising therapeutic target against TBI-induced BBB disruption.

Inhibition of Heat Shock Protein 90 Attenuates the Damage of Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity in Traumatic Brain Injury Mouse Model

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is widely found in brain tissue. HSP90 inhibition has been proven to have neuroprotective effects on ischemic strokes. In order to study the role of HSP90 in traumatic brain injury (TBI), we carried out the present study. A novel inhibitor of the HSP90 protein, 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DA), has been investigated for its function on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mouse models. These C57BL/6 mice were used as a TBI model and received 17-DA (0.1 mg/kg/d, intraperitoneally) until the experiment ended. To find out whether 17-DA may protect against TBI in vitro, bEnd.3 cells belonging to mouse brain microvascular endothelium were used. The HSP90 protein expressions were raised after TBI at the pericontusional area, especially at 3 d. Our study suggested that 17-DA-treated mice improved the recovery ability of neurological deficits and decreased brain edema, Evans blue extravasation, and the loss of tight junction proteins (TJPs) post-TBI. 17-DA significantly promoted cell proliferation and alleviated apoptosis by inhibiting the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) to downregulate cleaved caspase-3, matrix metallopeptidase- (MMP-) 2, MMP-9, and P-P65 in bEnd.3 cells after the injury. As a result, we assumed that the HSP90 protein was activated post-TBI, and inhibition of HSP90 protein reduced the disruption of BBB and improved the neurobehavioral scores in a mouse model of TBI through the action of 17-DA, which inhibited ROS generation and regulated MMP-2, MMP-9, NF-κB, and caspase-associated pathways. Thus, blocking HSP90 protein may be a potential therapeutic strategy for TBI.

Nature against Diabetic Retinopathy: A Review on Antiangiogenic, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Phytochemicals

Background and Purpose. Diabetes mellitus (DM), hyperglycemia, and hypertension can result in diabetic retinopathy (DR), which is a major cause of blindness on a global scale. Development of DR is associated with decreased endothelial cells, increased basal membrane thickness, permeation of the retinal blood barrier, and neovascularization in patients. The purpose of the present review is to provide an overview of the findings regarding applications of phytochemicals for DR treatment and could be a beneficial resource for further clinical studies and also a basis for pharmaceutical purposes for drug design. Materials and Methods. A narrative literature review was performed from electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus to analyze the effects of different phytochemicals to prevent or treat oxidation, angiogenesis, and inflammation in diabetic retinopathy. The inclusion criteria were original studies, which included the effects of different phytochemicals on diabetic retinopathy. The exclusion criteria included studies other than original articles, studies which assessed the effects of phytochemicals on nondiabetic retinopathy, and studies which used phytochemical-rich extracts. Results and Conclusions. Studies have shown that increased levels of inflammatory cytokines, angiogenic, and oxidative stress factors are involved in the progression and pathogenesis of DR. Therefore, phytochemicals with their anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and antioxidant properties can prevent DR progression and retinal damage through various cellular mechanisms. It is also shown that some phytochemicals can simultaneously affect the inflammation, oxidation, and angiogenesis in DR.

Aquaporin 4 in Traumatic Brain Injury: From Molecular Pathways to Therapeutic Target

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known as an acute degenerative pathology of the central nervous system, and has been shown to increase brain aquaporin 4 (AQP4) expression. Various molecular mechanisms affect AQP4 expression, including neuronal high mobility group box 1, forkhead box O3a, vascular endothelial growth factor, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 α (HIF-1 α) sirtuin 2, NF-κB, Malat1, nerve growth factor and Angiotensin II receptor type 1. In addition, inhibition of AQP4 with FK-506, MK-801 (indirectly by targeting N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor), inactivation of adenosine A2A receptor, levetiracetam, adjudin, progesterone, estrogen, V1aR inhibitor, hypertonic saline, erythropoietin, poloxamer 188, brilliant blue G, HIF-1alpha inhibitor, normobaric oxygen therapy, astaxanthin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, sesamin, thaliporphine, magnesium, prebiotic fiber, resveratrol and omega-3, as well as AQP4 gene silencing lead to reduced edema upon TBI. This review summarizes current knowledge and evidence on the relationship between AQP4 and TBI, and the potential mechanisms involved.

A novel mechanism linking ferroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress via the circPtpn14/miR-351-5p/5-LOX signaling in melatonin-mediated treatment of traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to disability or devastating consequences with few established treatments. Although ferroptosis has been shown to be involved in TBI, the underlying mechanism was rarely known. Melatonin has been indicated to exhibit neuroprotective activities. However, the anti-ferroptotic effects of melatonin on TBI have not yet to be elucidated. We aimed to investigate whether ferroptosis was induced in humans after TBI and whether ferroptosis inhibition by melatonin could protect against blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage after TBI in vivo and in vitro. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are highly expressed in the brain. For the first time, differentially expressed circRNA after melatonin treatment for TBI were detected by RNA sequencing. We found that lipid peroxidation was induced in humans after TBI, while melatonin significantly improved brain function of mice after TBI and alleviated ferroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in vivo and in vitro. A total of 1826 differentially expressed circRNAs were found (fold change >2, Q < 0.01), including 921 down-regulated and 905 up-regulated circRNAs in the injured brain tissues of TBI mice receiving melatonin treatment. Mechanistically, melatonin administration reduced the level of circPtpn14 (mmu_circ_0000130), which functioned by acting as a miR-351-5p sponge to positively regulate the expression of the ferroptosis-related 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). Moreover, circPtpn14 overexpression partly abolished the inhibitory effects of melatonin on ferroptosis. Collectively, our findings provide the first evidence that melatonin could exert anti-ferroptotic and anti-ER stress effects in brain injury by alleviating lipid peroxidation via the circPtpn14/miR-351-5p/5-LOX signaling.

Cerebral Microcirculation, Perivascular Unit, and Glymphatic System: Role of Aquaporin-4 as the Gatekeeper for Water Homeostasis

In the past, water homeostasis of the brain was understood as a certain quantitative equilibrium of water content between intravascular, interstitial, and intracellular spaces governed mostly by hydrostatic effects i.e., strictly by physical laws. The recent achievements in molecular bioscience have led to substantial changes in this regard. Some new concepts elaborate the idea that all compartments involved in cerebral fluid homeostasis create a functional continuum with an active and precise regulation of fluid exchange between them rather than only serving as separate fluid receptacles with mere passive diffusion mechanisms, based on hydrostatic pressure. According to these concepts, aquaporin-4 (AQP4) plays the central role in cerebral fluid homeostasis, acting as a water channel protein. The AQP4 not only enables water permeability through the blood-brain barrier but also regulates water exchange between perivascular spaces and the rest of the glymphatic system, described as pan-cerebral fluid pathway interlacing macroscopic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces with the interstitial fluid of brain tissue. With regards to this, AQP4 makes water shift strongly dependent on active processes including changes in cerebral microcirculation and autoregulation of brain vessels capacity. In this paper, the role of the AQP4 as the gatekeeper, regulating the water exchange between intracellular space, glymphatic system (including the so-called neurovascular units), and intravascular compartment is reviewed. In addition, the new concepts of brain edema as a misbalance in water homeostasis are critically appraised based on the newly described role of AQP4 for fluid permeation. Finally, the relevance of these hypotheses for clinical conditions (including brain trauma and stroke) and for both new and old therapy concepts are analyzed.

Microenvironmental Variations After Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown in Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is linked to several pathologies. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown is considered to be one of the initial changes. Further, the microenvironmental alteration following TBI-induced BBB breakdown can be multi-scaled, constant, and dramatic. The microenvironmental variations after disruption of BBB includes several pathological changes, such as cerebral blood flow (CBF) alteration, brain edema, cerebral metabolism imbalances, and accumulation of inflammatory molecules. The modulation of the microenvironment presents attractive targets for TBI recovery, such as reducing toxic substances, inhibiting inflammation, and promoting neurogenesis. Herein, we briefly review the pathological alterations of the microenvironmental changes following BBB breakdown and outline potential interventions for TBI recovery based on microenvironmental modulation.

Sesamin promotes apoptosis and pyroptosis via autophagy to enhance antitumour effects on murine T-cell lymphoma

Sesamin is a lignan compound in plants that has various pharmacological effects, including reducing diabetes-associated injuries, regulating fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism, and exerting antiinflammatory and antitumour effects. Previous studies have reported that sesamin can inhibit the proliferation of several types of tumour cells and exert antitumour effects. However, the antitumour effect of sesamin on T-cell lymphoma is still unknown. In this study, we selected a T-cell lymphoma mouse model to investigate the mechanism of sesamin against T-cell lymphoma via programmed cell death in vivo and in vitro. We found that sesamin could significantly inhibit the growth of EL4 cells in a tumour-bearing mouse model. Sesamin markedly inhibited the proliferation of EL4 cells by inducing apoptosis, pyroptosis and autophagy. Autophagy occurred earlier than apoptosis and pyroptosis in EL4 cells after sesamin treatment. Blocking autophagy inhibited apoptosis and pyroptosis in EL4 cells after sesamin treatment. Taken together, these results suggested that sesamin promoted apoptosis and pyroptosis via autophagy to enhance antitumour effects on murine T-cell lymphoma. This study expands our knowledge of the pharmacological effects of sesamin on T-cell lymphoma, and provides a theoretical basis for the development of new antitumour drugs and treatments for T-cell lymphoma.

Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates blood-brain barrier disruption and traumatic brain injury via attenuating macrophages derived exosomes miR-21 release

During the traumatic brain injury (TBI), improved expression of circulatory miR-21 serves as a diagnostic feature. Low levels of exosome-miR-21 in the brain can effectively improve neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, reduce nerve apoptosis, restore neural function and ameliorate TBI. We evaluated the role of macrophage derived exosomes-miR-21 (M-Exos-miR-21) in disrupting BBB, deteriorating TBI, and Rg1 interventions. IL-1β-induced macrophages (IIM)-Exos-miR-21 can activate NF-κB signaling pathway and induce the expressions of MMP-1, -3 and -9 and downregulate the levels of tight junction proteins (TJPs) deteriorating the BBB. Rg1 reduced miR-21-5p content in IIM-Exos (RIIM-Exos). The interaction of NMIIA–HSP90 controlled the release of Exos-miR-21, this interaction was restricted by Rg1. Rg1 could inhibit the Exos-miR-21 release in peripheral blood flow to brain, enhancing TIMP3 protein expression, MMPs proteolysis, and restricting TJPs degradation thus protected the BBB integrity. Conclusively, Rg1 can improve the cerebrovascular endothelial injury and hold the therapeutic potential against TBI disease.

Sesamin Protects against and Ameliorates Rat Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury with Involvement of Activating Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 Signaling Pathway

Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) may induce cell/tissue injuries, leading to multiple organ failure. Based on our preexperiments, we proposed that sesamin could protect against and ameliorate intestinal I/R injuries and related disorders with involvement of activating Nrf2 signaling pathway. This proposal was evaluated using SD intestinal I/R injury rats in vivo and hypoxia/reoxygenation- (H/R-) injured rat small intestinal crypt epithelial cell line (IEC-6 cells) in vitro. Sesamin significantly alleviated I/R-induced intestinal histopathological injuries and significantly reduced serum biochemical indicators ALT and AST, alleviating I/R-induced intestinal injury in rats. Sesamin also significantly reversed I/R-increased TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MPO activity in serum and MDA in tissues and I/R-decreased GSH in tissues and SOD in both tissues and IEC-6 cells, indicating its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative stress effects. Further, sesamin significantly decreased TUNEL-positive cells, downregulated the increased Bax and caspase-3 protein expression, upregulated the decreased protein expression of Bcl-2 in I/R-injured intestinal tissues, and significantly reversed H/R-reduced IEC-6 cell viability as well as reduced the number of apoptotic cells among H/R-injured IEC-6 cell, showing antiapoptotic effects. Activation of Nrf2 is known to ameliorate tissue/cell injuries. Consistent with sesamin-induced ameliorations of both intestinal I/R injuries and H/R injuries, transfection of Nrf2 cDNA significantly upregulated the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, respectively. On the contrary, either Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) or Nrf2 siRNA transfection significantly decreased the expression of these proteins. Our results suggest that activation of the Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 signaling pathway is involved in sesamin-induced anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic effects in protection against and amelioration of intestinal I/R injuries.

Glymphatics: A Transformative Development in Medical Neuroscience Relevant to Injuries in Military Central Nervous System

INTRODUCTION

The glia-operated glymphatic system, analogous to but separate from the lymphatics in the periphery, is unique to brain and retina, where it is very closely aligned with the arteriolar system. This intimate relationship leads to a "blood vessel like" distribution pattern of glymphatic vessels in the brain. The spatial relationship of glymphatics, including their essential component aquaporin-4 with vascular pericytes of brain arterioles is critical to functionality and is termed "polarization".

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We review the available literature on the factors affecting the resting state of glymphatics under normal conditions, including the important role of sleep in supporting normal glymphatic function (including waste removal) as well as the critical role of "polarization" under normal conditions. We then examine the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or seizures on the glymphatic system and its state of "polarization".

RESULTS

Injury, such as TBI, can disrupt polarization resulting in "depolarization" leading to brain edema.

CONCLUSION

Damage to the glymphatic system might explain the brain edema so often seen following TBI or other insult. Moreover, similar damage should be expected in response to seizures, which can often be associated with chemical exposures as well as with TBI. Military operations, whether night operations or continuous operations, quite often impose limitations on sleep. As glymphatic function is sleep-dependent, sleep deprivation alone could compromise glymphatic function, as well, and might in addition, explain some of the well-known performance deficits associated with sleep deprivation. Possible effects of submarine and diving operations, chemical agents (including seizures), as well as high altitude exposure and other threats should be considered. In addition to the brain, the retina is also served and protected by the glymphatic system. Accordingly, the effect of military-related risks (e.g., exposure to laser or other threats) to retinal glymphatic function should also be considered. An intact glymphatic system is absolutely essential to support normal central nervous system functionality, including cognition. This effects a broad range of military threats on brain and retinal glymphatics should be explored. Possible preventive and therapeutic measures should be proposed and evaluated, as well.

Astrocyte-derived CCL7 promotes microglia-mediated inflammation following traumatic brain injury

Microglia are immune cells of the central nervous system that mediate neuroinflammation. It is widely known that microglia-mediated inflammation in the brain contribute to the widespread tissue damage and neurological deficits in traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the mechanisms responsible for this inflammatory response remain elusive. Here, we investigated the role of astrocyte-derived chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 7 (CCL7) in microglial-controlled inflammation following TBI. Our results demonstrated that astrocyte-derived CCL7 induced microglial activation and the release of proinflammatory mediators in the cortex and serum of rats that underwent experimental TBI. Furthermore, CCL7 knockout improved microglia-controlled inflammation, brain morphology and neurological dysfunction following TBI. In vitro, CCL7-siRNA attenuated the LPS-induced expression of pro-inflammatory markers in the co-culture of microglia and astrocytes. Collectively, our findings uncover an important role for astrocyte-derived CCL7 in promoting microglia-mediated inflammation after TBI and suggests CCL7 could serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for attenuating TBI by inhibiting microglial activation.

Effects of cannabinoid (CBD) on blood brain barrier permeability after brain injury in rats

Cannabidiol is a natural herbal medicine known to protect the brain from traumatic brain injury (TBI). Here, a TBI rat model was established, with cannabidiol administered intraperitoneally at doses of 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg, 30 min before surgery and 6 h after surgery until sacrifice. Brain water content, body weight, and modified neurological severity scores were determined, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence staining, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Nissl staining, Evans-blue dye extravasation, and western blotting were performed. Results showed that cannabidiol decreased the number of aquaporin-4-positive and glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells. Cannabidiol also significantly reduced the protein levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) and significantly increased the expression of tight junction proteins (claudin-5 and occludin). Moreover, cannabidiol administration significantly mitigated water content in the brain after TBI and blood-brain barrier disruption and ameliorated the neurological deficit score after TBI. Cannabidiol administration improved the integrity and permeability of the blood-brain barrier and reduced edema in the brain after TBI.

Sesamin suppresses advanced glycation end products induced microglial reactivity using BV2 microglial cell line as a model

Neuroinflammation-mediated microglial reactivity is a major process, which explains the increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) development in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), formed by hyperglycemic condition in diabetes, is characterized as an intermediary of brain injury with diabetes through induction of microglial reactivity. Here, we explored the effect of AGEs on microglial reactivity using BV2 as a model. The NF-κB, p38 and JNK pathways were found to be important mechanism in AGEs-induced BV2 microglial reactivity. NF-κB inhibitor (BAY-11-7082), p38 inhibitor (SB203580) and JNK inhibitor (SP600125) exhibited the potential inhibition of AGEs-induced NO production. We also found that the sesamin, a major lignan found in sesame seed oils, exerts an anti-inflammatory effect under AGEs-induced microglial reactivity via suppressing the phosphorylation of NF-κB, p38 and JNK pathways. Moreover, sesamin also ameliorated AGEs-induced-receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) expression. Taken together, sesamin may be a promising phytochemical compound to delay inflammatory progress by AGEs microglia function. Similarly, inhibition of AGEs-induced microglial reactivity might be potential therapeutic targets of neuroinflammation-based mechanisms in T2DM link progressive AD.

Sesame Oil-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers of Nicergoline, Intranasal Delivery System for Brain Targeting of Synergistic Cerebrovascular Protection

Nicergoline (NIC) is a semisynthetic ergot alkaloid derivative applied for treatment of dementia and other cerebrovascular disorders. The efficacy of sesame oil to slow and reverse the symptoms of neurodegenerative cognitive disorders has been proven. This work aimed to formulate and optimize sesame oil-based NIC-nanostructured lipid carriers (NIC–NLCs) for intranasal (IN) delivery with expected synergistic and augmented neuroprotective properties. The NIC–NLC were prepared using sesame oil as a liquid lipid. A three-level, three-factor Box–Behnken design was applied to statistically optimize the effect of sesame oil (%) of the total lipid, surfactant concentration, and sonication time on particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficacy as responses. Solid-state characterization, release profile, and ex vivo nasal permeation in comparison to NIC solution (NIC–SOL) was studied. In vivo bioavailability from optimized NIC–NLC and NIC–SOL following IN and IV administration was evaluated and compared. The optimized NIC–NLC formula showed an average particle size of 111.18 nm, zeta potential of −15.4 mV, 95.11% entrapment efficacy (%), and 4.6% loading capacity. The NIC–NLC formula showed a biphasic, extended-release profile (72% after 48 h). Permeation of the NIC–NLC formula showed a 2.3 enhancement ratio. Bioavailability studies showed a 1.67 and 4.57 fold increase in plasma and brain following IN administration. The results also indicated efficient direct nose-to-brain targeting properties with the brain-targeting efficiency (BTE%) and direct transport percentage (DTP%) of 187.3% and 56.6%, respectively, after IN administration. Thus, sesame oil-based NIC–NLC can be considered as a promising IN delivery system for direct and efficient brain targeting with improved bioavailability and expected augmented neuroprotective action for the treatment of dementia.

Antioxidant thioether core-crosslinked nanoparticles prevent the bilateral spread of secondary injury to protect spatial learning and memory in a controlled cortical impact mouse model of traumatic brain injury

The secondary phase of traumatic brain injury (TBI) is partly caused by the release of excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) from the primary injury. However, there are currently no therapies that have been shown to reduce the secondary spread of injury beyond the primary insult. Nanoparticles offer the ability to rapidly accumulate and be retained in injured brain for improved target engagement. Here, we utilized systemically administered antioxidant thioether core-cross-linked nanoparticles (NP1) that scavenge and inactivate ROS to reduce this secondary spread of injury in a mild controlled cortical impact (CCI) mouse model of TBI. We found that NP1 treatment protected CCI mice from injury induced learning and memory deficits observed in the Morris water maze (MWM) test at 1-month post-CCI. This protection was likely a result of NP1-mediated reduction in oxidative stress in the ipsilateral hemisphere as determined by immunofluorescence imaging of markers of oxidative stress and the spread of neuroinflammation into the contralateral hippocampus as determined by immunofluorescence imaging of activated microglia and neuron-astrocyte-microglia triad formation. These data suggest NP1-mediated reduction in post-traumatic oxidative stress correlates with the reduction in the spread of injury to the contralateral hippocampus to protect spatial memory and learning in CCI mice. Therefore, these materials may offer an improved treatment strategy to reduce the secondary spread of TBI.

Sesamin alleviates diabetes-associated behavioral deficits in rats: The role of inflammatory and neurotrophic factors

Neuroinflammation and loss of neurotrophic support have key roles in the pathophysiology of diabetes-associated behavioral deficits (DABD). Sesamin (Ses), a major lignan of sesame seed and its oil, shows anti-hyperglycemic, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective effects. The present study was designed to assess the potential protective effects of Ses against DABD and investigate the roles of inflammatory markers and neurotrophic factors in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. After confirmation of diabetes, Ses (30 mg/kg/day; P.O.) or insulin (6 IU/rat/day; S.C.) was administered to rats for eight consecutive weeks. During the eighth-week period of the study, behavioral functions of the animals were evaluated by employing standard behavioral paradigms. Moreover, inflammation status, neurotrophic factors, and histological changes were assessed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal regions of the rats. The results of behavioral tests showed that STZ-induced diabetes increased anxiety-/depression-like behaviors, decreased locomotor/exploratory activities, and impaired passive avoidance learning and memory. These DABD were accompanied by neuroinflammation, lack of neurotrophic support, and neuronal loss in both cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the rats. Intriguingly, chronic treatment with Ses improved all the above-mentioned diabetes-related behavioral, biochemical, and histological deficits, and in some cases, it was even more effective than insulin therapy. In conclusion, the results suggest that Ses was capable of improving DABD, which might be ascribed, at least partly, to the reduction of blood glucose level, inhibition of neuroinflammation, and potentiation of neurotrophic factors.

Acute Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Neuroinflammatory Response and Neurovascular Disorders in the Brain

Acute traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, cognitive decline, psychological disorders, increased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, and microvascular damage in the brain. Inflammatory mediators secreted from activated glial cells, neurons, and mast cells are implicated in the pathogenesis of TBI through secondary brain damage. Abnormalities or damage to the neurovascular unit is the indication of secondary injuries in the brain after TBI. However, the precise mechanisms of molecular and ultrastructural neurovascular alterations involved in the pathogenesis of acute TBI are not yet clearly understood. Moreover, currently, there are no precision-targeted effective treatment options to prevent the sequelae of TBI. In this study, mice were subjected to closed head weight-drop-induced acute TBI and evaluated neuroinflammatory and neurovascular alterations in the brain by immunofluorescence staining or quantitation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) procedure. Mast cell stabilizer drug cromolyn was administered to inhibit the neuroinflammatory response of TBI. Results indicate decreased level of pericyte marker platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-β) and BBB-associated tight junction proteins junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A) and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) in the brains 7 days after weight-drop-induced acute TBI as compared with the brains from sham control mice indicating acute TBI-associated BBB/tight junction protein disruption. Further, the administration of cromolyn drug significantly inhibited acute TBI-associated decrease of PDGFR-β, JAM-A, and ZO-1 in the brain. These findings suggest that acute TBI causes BBB/tight junction damage and that cromolyn administration could protect this acute TBI-induced brain damage as well as its long-time consequences.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Alleviate Traumatic Brain Injury by Regulating the Glymphatic Pathway in Mice

Background: The glymphatic pathway has been shown to be impaired in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Omega-3 polysaturated fatty acids (Omega-3, PUFAs) are involved in the clearance of amyloid-ß through the glymphatic system and this effect is Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) dependent. We hypothesize that Omega-3 PUFAs can alleviate neurological impairment in TBI by protecting the glymphatic pathway.

Methods: We pretreated mice with Omega-3 PUFAs rich fish oil and introduced TBI in the mice. Neurological functions were assessed through the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) system and Rota-rod test. Aß42 levels and radioisotope clearance were examined to determine the function of glymphatic system. AQP4 protein and mRNA expressions and its polarity were examined in fish oil treated TBI mice or control mice. Finally, the integrity of blood-brain barrier was determined by Evans blue extravasation and measurement of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) levels.

Results: TBI surgery induced significant neurological functional impairment, Omega-3 PUFAs attenuated TBI-induced neurological impairment, as evidenced by reduced mNSS, improved performance in the Rota-rod test. Furthermore, Omega-3 PUFAs improved glymphatic clearance after induction of TBI in mice, reduced Aß42 accumulation, partially restored the clearance of both ³H-mannitol and ¹⁴C-Inulin. Omega-3 PUFAs also suppressed AQP4 expression and partially prevented loss of AQP4 polarity in mice undergoing TBI. Finally, Omega-3 PUFAs protected mice from TBI induced blood-brain barrier disruption.

Conclusion: Omaga-3 PUFAs attenuate neurological function by partially restoring the AQP4 dependent glymphatic system in mice with TBI.

Effects of Sesamin, the Major Furofuran Lignan of Sesame Oil, on the Amplitude and Gating of Voltage-Gated Na+ and K+ Currents

Sesamin (SSM) and sesamolin (SesA) are the two major furofuran lignans of sesame oil and they have been previously noticed to exert various biological actions. However, their modulatory actions on different types of ionic currents in electrically excitable cells remain largely unresolved. The present experiments were undertaken to explore the possible perturbations of SSM and SesA on different types of ionic currents, e.g., voltage-gated Na⁺ currents (I_Na), erg-mediated K⁺ currents (I_K(erg)), M-type K⁺ currents (I_K(M)), delayed-rectifier K⁺ currents (I_K(DR)) and hyperpolarization-activated cation currents (I_h) identified from pituitary tumor (GH₃) cells. The exposure to SSM or SesA depressed the transient and late components of I_Na with different potencies. The IC₅₀ value of SSM needed to lessen the peak or sustained I_Na was calculated to be 7.2 or 0.6 μM, while that of SesA was 9.8 or 2.5 μM, respectively. The dissociation constant of SSM-perturbed inhibition on I_Na, based on the first-order reaction scheme, was measured to be 0.93 μM, a value very similar to the IC₅₀ for its depressant action on sustained I_Na. The addition of SSM was also effective at suppressing the amplitude of resurgent I_Na. The addition of SSM could concentration-dependently inhibit the I_K(M) amplitude with an IC₅₀ value of 4.8 μM. SSM at a concentration of 30 μM could suppress the amplitude of I_K(erg), while at 10 μM, it mildly decreased the I_K(DR) amplitude. However, the addition of neither SSM (10 μM) nor SesA (10 μM) altered the amplitude or kinetics of I_h in response to long-lasting hyperpolarization. Additionally, in this study, a modified Markovian model designed for SCN8A-encoded (or Na_V1.6) channels was implemented to evaluate the plausible modifications of SSM on the gating kinetics of Na_V channels. The model demonstrated herein was well suited to predict that the SSM-mediated decrease in peak I_Na, followed by increased current inactivation, which could largely account for its favorable decrease in the probability of the open-blocked over open state of Na_V channels. Collectively, our study provides evidence that highlights the notion that SSM or SesA could block multiple ion currents, such as I_Na and I_K(M), and suggests that these actions are potentially important and may participate in the functional activities of various electrically excitable cells in vivo.

Oxidative Stress-Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Disruption in Neurological Diseases

The blood-brain barrier (BBB), as a crucial gate of brain-blood molecular exchange, is involved in the pathogenesis of multiple neurological diseases. Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the scavenger system. Since oxidative stress plays a significant role in the production and maintenance of the BBB, the cerebrovascular system is especially vulnerable to it. The pathways that initiate BBB dysfunction include, but are not limited to, mitochondrial dysfunction, excitotoxicity, iron metabolism, cytokines, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, all converging on the generation of ROS. Interestingly, ROS also provide common triggers that directly regulate BBB damage, parameters including tight junction (TJ) modifications, transporters, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation, inflammatory responses, and autophagy. We will discuss the role of oxidative stress-mediated BBB disruption in neurological diseases, such as hemorrhagic stroke, ischemic stroke (IS), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). This review will also discuss the latest clinical evidence of potential biomarkers and antioxidant drugs towards oxidative stress in neurological diseases. A deeper understanding of how oxidative stress damages BBB may open up more therapeutic options for the treatment of neurological diseases.

Sesamin promotes angiogenesis and accelerates wound healing in rats via alleviates TBHP-induced apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Acute stress induces tissue damage through excessive cellular apoptosis. In our study, the effects of sesamin on apoptosis and wound healing were investigated. The angiogenesis effect of sesamin was evaluated by the abilities of adherence, migration and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our data demonstrated that treatment with sesamin dose-dependently promoted the proliferation, adherence, migration and enhanced their angiogenic ability in vitro. Moreover, the increased apoptosis in HUVECs, which stimulated by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) was significantly attenuated by the sesamin treatment. Furthermore, we revealed that neogenesis of granulation tissue and deposition and remodeling of the collagen matrix were accelerated by the administration of sesamin in our in vivo study. These results confirm that sesamin accelerates wound healing at least partly through its antiapoptotic effects on endothelial cells at the injury site. Thus, sesamin represents a potential therapeutic medicine for vessel injury-related wounds.

VX765 Attenuates Pyroptosis and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB Pathways to Improve Functional Outcomes in TBI Mice

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to temporary or permanent damage to brain function caused by penetrating objects or blunt force trauma. TBI activates inflammasome-mediated pathways and other cell death pathways to remove inactive and damaged cells, however, they are also harmful to the central nervous system. The newly discovered cell death pattern termed pyroptosis has become an area of interest. It mainly relies on caspase-1-mediated pathways, leading to cell death.

Methods

Our research focus is VX765, a known caspase-1 inhibitor which may offer neuroprotection after the process of TBI. We established a controlled cortical impact (CCI) mouse model and then controlled the degree of pyroptosis in TBI with VX765. The effects of caspase-1 inhibition on inflammatory response, pyroptosis, blood-brain barrier (BBB), apoptosis, and microglia activation, in addition to neurological deficits, were investigated.

Results

We found that TBI led to NOD-like receptors (NLRs) as well as absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in the damaged cerebral cortex. VX765 curbed the expressions of indispensable inflammatory subunits (caspase-1 as well as key downstream proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin- (IL-) 1β and IL-18). It also inhibited gasdermin D (GSDMD) cleavage and apoptosis-associated spot-like protein (ASC) oligomerization in the injured cortex. In addition to the above, VX765 also inhibited the inflammatory activity of the high-mobility cassette -1/Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B (HMGB1/TLR4/NF-kappa B) pathway. By inhibiting pyroptosis and inflammatory mediator expression, we demonstrated that VX765 can decrease blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage, apoptosis, and microglia polarization to exhibit its neuroprotective effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, VX765 can counteract neurological damage after TBI by reducing pyroptosis and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway activities. VX765 may have a good therapeutic effect on TBI.

Sesamin Promotes Neurite Outgrowth under Insufficient Nerve Growth Factor Condition in PC12 Cells through ERK1/2 Pathway and SIRT1 Modulation

The promotion of neurogenesis can be a promising strategy to improve and restore neuronal function in neurodegenerative diseases. Nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a key role in neurite outgrowth and synaptic formation during brain repair stage. Nowadays, there are several studies on the developing methods to enhance the endogenous NGF activity for treatment and restore the neuronal function. In this study, the potentiating effect of sesamin, a major lignan in sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) and oil, on NGF-induced neurogenesis and its involved mechanisms were firstly reported. Sesamin effectively enhanced the PC12 neuron-like cell differentiation and neurite length under insufficient conditions of NGF. The neuronal markers including synaptophysin and growth-associated protein-43 along with the synaptic connections were significantly increased in combination treatment between sesamin and NGF. Moreover, sesamin also increased the level of phospho-ERK1/2 and SIRT1 protein, an important regulatory protein of the neurogenesis process. The neurogenesis was blocked by the specific SIRT1 inhibitor, JGB1741, suggesting that the neuritogenic effect of sesamin was associated with SIRT1 protein modulation. Taken together, the potentiating effect of sesamin on NGF-induced neurogenesis in this finding could be used for alternative treatment in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

Aloin Protects Against Blood-Brain Barrier Damage After Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice

Aloin is a small-molecule drug well known for its protective actions in various models of damage. Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced cerebral edema from secondary damage caused by disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) often leads to an adverse prognosis. Since the role of aloin in maintaining the integrity of the BBB after TBI remains unclear, we explored the protective effects of aloin on the BBB using in vivo and in vitro TBI models. Adult male C57BL/6 mice underwent controlled cortical impact injury, and mouse brain capillary endothelial bEnd.3 cells underwent biaxial stretch injury, then both received aloin treatment. In the animal experiments, we found 20 mg/kg aloin to be the optimum concentration to decrease cerebral edema, decrease disruption of the BBB, and improve neurobehavioral performance after cortical impact injury. In the cellular studies, the optimum concentration of 40 μg/mL aloin reduced apoptosis and reversed the loss of tight junctions by reducing the reactive oxygen species levels and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential after stretch injury. The mechanisms may be that aloin downregulates the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, the activation of p65 nuclear factor-kappa B, and the ratios of B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein/Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3. We conclude that aloin exhibits these protective effects on the BBB after TBI through its anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic properties in mouse brain capillary endothelial cells. Aloin may thus be a promising therapeutic drug for TBI.

Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF) Protects the Blood-Brain Barrier by Binding of FGFR1 and Activating the ERK Signaling Pathway After Intra-Abdominal Hypertension and Traumatic Brain Injury

Background

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. IAH leads to intra-abdominal tissue damage and causes dysfunction in distal organs such as the brain. The effect of a combined injury due to IAH and traumatic brain injury (TBI) on the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) has not been investigated.

Material/Methods

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, brain water content, EB permeability detection, immunofluorescence staining, real-time PCR, and Western blot analysis were used to examine the effects of IAH and TBI on the BBB in rats, and to characterize the protective effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on combined injury-induced BBB damage.

Results

Combined injury from IAH and TBI to the BBB resulted in brain edema and increased intracranial pressure. The effects of bFGF on alleviating the rat BBB injuries were determined, indicating that bFGF regulated the expression levels of the tight junction (TJ), adhesion junction (AJ), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), and IL-1β, as well as reduced BBB permeability, brain edema, and intracranial pressure. Moreover, the FGFR1 antagonist PD 173074 and the ERK antagonist PD 98059 decreased the protective effects of bFGF.

Conclusions

bFGF effectively protected the BBB from damage caused by combined injury from IAH and TBI, and binding of FGFR1 and activation of the ERK signaling pathway was involved in these effects.

Neuroprotective Effects of Serpina3k in Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide, in part resulting from secondary apoptosis of neurons in peri-contusion areas. Serpina3k, a serine protease inhibitor, has been shown to inhibit apoptosis in injury models. In this study, we investigated the anti-apoptotic function of serpina3k in vivo using a mouse model of TBI, as well as the underlying neuroprotective mechanism in vitro using the SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line. TBI was induced in adult male C57BL/6 mice using controlled cortical impact. Serpina3k protein was intravenously administered at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg twice daily for up to 14 days. SH-SY5Y cells were subjected to biaxial stretch injury and then treated with different concentrations of serpina3k. We found that endogenous serpina3k protein levels were elevated in peri-contusion areas of the mouse brain following TBI. Serpina3k-treated mice had fewer apoptotic neurons, lower levels of oxidative stress, and showed greater recovery of neurological deficits relative to vehicle-treated mice. Meanwhile, in the SH-SY5Y cell injury model, serpina3k at an optimal concentration (150 nM) inhibited the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, abrogated changes of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced the phospho-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK)/ERK, phospho-P38 (p-P38)/P38, B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein/Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 ratios, thereby reducing the apoptosis rate. These results demonstrate that serpina3k exerts a neuroprotective function following TBI and thus has therapeutic potential.

Supplementation of Sesamin Alleviates Stress-Induced Behavioral and Psychological Disorders via Reshaping the Gut Microbiota Structure

Sesamin, a lignan from sesame seed, has been reported to attenuate chronic mild stress-induced depressive-like behaviors. Gut microbiota play pivotal roles in mediating psychological behaviors by regulating gut barrier integrity and systemic inflammatory responses. Here, we found that oral sesamin administration (50 mg/kg·bodyweight/day) significantly attenuated depressive, aversive, repetitive, and anxiety-like behaviors in a long-term multiple nonsocial stress-treated mice model. Sesamin inhibited stress-induced gut barrier integrity damage, reduced circulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels, and suppressed neuroinflammatory responses. Moreover, sesamin treatment also restructured the gut microbiome by enhancing the relative abundances of Bacteroidales and S24-7. The correlation analysis indicated that the microbiota composition changes were strongly correlated with behavioral disorders, serotonin, norepinephrine, and LPS levels. In conclusion, sesamin has preventive effects on stress-induced behavioral and psychological disorders, which might be highly related to the reshaped microbiota composition. This study provides a clue for understanding the systemic mechanism of anti-depression effects of sesamin.

Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Reduces Permeability and Apoptosis of Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells in Response to Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation Followed by Reoxygenation via the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 (FGFR1)/ERK Pathway

Background

Disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a mechanism in the pathogenesis of traumatic brain injury. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is expressed in angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and neuronal survival. This study aimed to investigate the role of bFGF in vitro in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) challenged by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R).

Material/Methods

HBMECs were cultured in glucose-free medium and an environment with <0.5% oxygen in an anaerobic chamber. Immunocytochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to measure the protein and mRNA expression levels of bFGF, tight junction, adherens junction, apoptotic proteins, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The effects of bFGF on the viability of HBMECs was evaluated using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell apoptosis was evaluated using the TUNEL assay, and endothelial permeability was quantified using a transwell migration assay with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) conjugated with dextran. The effects of bFGF were evaluated following inhibition of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) with PD173074 and inhibition of ERK with PD98059.

Results

Following OGD/R of HBMECs, bFGF significantly reduced cell permeability and apoptosis and significantly inhibited the down-regulation of the expressions of proteins associated with tight junctions, adherens junctions, apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The effects of bFGF were mediated by the activation of FGFR1 and ERK, as they were blocked by FGFR1 and ERK inhibitors.

Conclusions

Permeability and apoptosis of HBMECs challenged by OGD/R were reduced by bFGF by activation of the FGFR1 and the ERK pathway.

Cerebral Microvascular Injury: A Potentially Treatable Endophenotype of Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Neurodegeneration

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one the most common human afflictions, contributing to long-term disability in survivors. Emerging data indicate that functional improvement or deterioration can occur years after TBI. In this regard, TBI is recognized as risk factor for late-life neurodegenerative disorders. TBI encompasses a heterogeneous disease process in which diverse injury subtypes and multiple molecular mechanisms overlap. To develop precision medicine approaches where specific pathobiological processes are targeted by mechanistically appropriate therapies, techniques to identify and measure these subtypes are needed. Traumatic microvascular injury is a common but relatively understudied TBI endophenotype. In this review, we describe evidence of microvascular dysfunction in human and animal TBI, explore the role of vascular dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease, and discuss potential opportunities for vascular-directed therapies in ameliorating TBI-related neurodegeneration. We discuss the therapeutic potential of vascular-directed therapies in TBI and the use and limitations of preclinical models to explore these therapies.

Isolation of enantiomeric furolactones and furofurans from Rubus idaeus L. with neuroprotective activities

A phytochemical study on the fruits of Rubus idaeus L. (Rosaceae) yielded eight pairs of enantiomeric lignans, including one undescribed furolactone named (-)-idaeusinol A and six undescribed furofuran derivatives named (+/-)-idaeusinol B-D. The structures of these isolated compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses and a combination of computational techniques including gauge-independent atomic orbital (GIAO) calculation of 1D NMR data and TD-DFT calculation of electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Bioactivity screenings suggested that (+)-idaeusinol D exhibited the most significant protective effect against H₂O₂-induced neurotoxicity at the concentration of 25 μM. In contrast, (-)-idaeusinol D, as the enantiomer of (+)-idaeusinol D, showed no effect against H₂O₂-induced neurotoxicity at both 25 and 50 μM concentration.

Effects of Composite Supplement Containing Astaxanthin and Sesamin on Cognitive Functions in People with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background:

Dementia and its first or transitional stage, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), is a major concern for the aging Japanese society. Thus, the use of dietary supplements to improve or maintain cognitive function has become a topic of public interest.

Objective:

In this study, we evaluated the effects of a composite supplement containing food-derived antioxidants, specifically astaxanthin and sesamin (AS), on cognitive function in people with MCI.

Method:

Twenty-one healthy participants with MCI were recruited in our double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study. They were assigned to either an AS group, who received ingestible capsules containing AS, or a placebo group, who received identical placebo capsules. To assess cognitive functions, we performed the Japanese version of the Central Nervous System Vital Signs (CNSVS) test and the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cog test at baseline, after 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks of dietary supplementation.

Results:

The CNSVS test revealed significant improvements in psychomotor speed and processing speed in the AS group compared with the placebo group, suggesting that the daily supplementation of AS improved cognitive functions related to the ability to comprehend, and perform complex tasks quickly and accurately.

Conclusion:

Our results provide support for the use of AS as a dietary supplementation for improving cognitive functions.

Lignans and Neolignans: Plant secondary metabolites as a reservoir of biologically active substances

Lignans and neolignans are plant secondary metabolites derived from the oxidative coupling of phenylpropanoids. Biological activity of these phenolic compounds ranges from antioxidant, antitumor (terminaloside P, IC₅₀ = 10 nM), anti-inflammatory, anti-neurodegenerative (schibitubin B, IC₅₀ = 3.2 nM) and antiviral (patentiflorin A, IC₅₀ = 14-23 nM) to antimicrobial. In addition, it was observed that several members of this group, namely enterolactone and its biochemical precursors also known as phytoestrogens, possess important protective properties. Most of these lignans and neolignans are presented in reasonable amounts in one's diet and thus the protection they provide against the colon and breast cancer, to name a few, is even more important to note. Similarly, neuroprotective properties were observed (schisanwilsonin G, IC₅₀ = 3.2 nM) These structural motives also serve as an important starting point in the development of anticancer drugs. Presumably the most famous members of this family, etoposide and teniposide, synthetic derivatives of podophyllotoxin, are used in the clinical treatment of lymphocytic leukemia, certain brain tumors, and lung tumors already for nearly 20 years. This review describes 413 lignans and neolignans which have been isolated between 2016 and mid-2018 being reported in more than 300 peer-reviewed articles. It covers their source, structure elucidation, and bioactivity. Within the review, the structure-based overview of compounds as well as the bioactivity-based overview of compounds are described.