Beneficial effects of paeoniflorin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced by high-fat diet in rats

Active Targets and Potential Mechanisms of Erhuang Quzhi Formula in Treating NAFLD: Network Analysis and Experimental Assessment

The purpose of this research was to investigate the main active components, potential targets of action, and pharmacological mechanisms of Erhuang Quzhi Formula (EHQZF) against NAFLD using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation. The main active chemical components of EHQZF and the potential targets for treating NAFLD were extracted and analyzed. The PPI network diagram of "Traditional Chinese Medicine-Active Ingredients-Core Targets" was constructed and the GO, KEGG, and molecular docking analysis were carried out. Identification of components in traditional Chinese medicine compounds was conducted by LC-MS. NAFLD models were established and relevant pathologic indicators and Western blot were analyzed in vivo and ex vivo. Totally 8 herbs attributed to the liver meridian and 20 corresponding targets of NAFLD were obtained from EHQZF. Flavonoids and phenolic acids as the main components of EHQZF treated NAFLD through the MAPK/AKT signaling pathway. Pathway enrichment analysis focused on the MAPK/AKT signaling pathway and apoptosis signaling pathway. Molecular docking showed that Quercetin and Luteolin had stable binding structures with AKT1, STAT3, and other targets. Experiments showed that EHQZF reduced lipid accumulation, regulated changes in adipose tissue, inhibited the MAPK/AKT signaling pathway and exert multiple components, several targets, and multiple pathway interactions to treat NAFLD.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemical components in Qianggan capsule by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and LC-sMRM

Qianggan capsule (QGC) is a complex preparation composed of 16 traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) that can clear heat and dampness, fortify the spleen and blood, typify qi and relieve depression. However, the chemical composition of QGC remains incompletely understood, despite its clinical use in treating chronic hepatitis and liver injury. The objective of this study was to explore the quality markers of QGC through qualitative and quantitative analysis of its chemical components. First, the chemical composition of QGC was qualitatively analyzed using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Subsequently, the LC-sMRM method was developed and optimized to accurately quantify various chemical components of 10 batches of QGC. Finally, the variations in chemical components between batches were analyzed via multivariate statistical analysis. UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis revealed 167 chemical constituents in QGC, comprised of 48 flavonoids, 32 terpenoids, 18 phenolic acids, 9 coumarins, 9 phenylpropanoids, and 51 nucleosides, sugars, amino acids, anthraquinones, and other compounds. The LC-sMRM method was established for the quantitative analysis of 42 chemical components in 10 batches of QGC. The ultrasonic-assisted extraction parameters were optimized using RSM. Compared with conventional MRM, sMRM demonstrated superior sensitivity and precision. PCA and OPLS-DA identified eight chemical components with content differences among batches. This study established the chemical composition of QGC, offering useful guidance for assessing its quality.

A novel bioinformatics strategy to uncover the active ingredients and molecular mechanisms of Bai Shao in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Introduction: As a new discipline, network pharmacology has been widely used to disclose the material basis and mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine in recent years. However, numerous researches indicated that the material basis of TCMs identified based on network pharmacology was the mixtures of beneficial and harmful substances rather than the real material basis. In this work, taking the anti-NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) effect of Bai Shao (BS) as a case, we attempted to propose a novel bioinformatics strategy to uncover the material basis and mechanism of TCMs in a precise manner. Methods: In our previous studies, we have done a lot work to explore TCM-induced hepatoprotection. Here, by integrating our previous studies, we developed a novel computational pharmacology method to identify hepatoprotective ingredients from TCMs. Then the developed method was used to discover the material basis and mechanism of Bai Shao against Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by combining with the techniques of molecular network, microarray data analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, literature verification method was utilized to validate the findings. Results: A total of 12 ingredients were found to be associated with the anti-NAFLD effect of BS, including monoterpene glucosides, flavonoids, triterpenes, and phenolic acids. Further analysis found that IL1-β, IL6, and JUN would be the key targets. Interestingly, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis showed that there indeed existed strong and stable binding affinity between the active ingredients and the key targets. In addition, a total of 23 NAFLD-related KEGG pathways were enriched. The major biological processes involved by these pathways including inflammation, apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism. Of note, there was a great deal of evidence available in the literature to support the findings mentioned above, indicating that our method was reliable. Discussion: In summary, the contributions of this work can be summarized as two aspects as follows. Firstly, we systematically elucidated the material basis and mechanism of BS against NAFLD from multiple perspectives. These findings further enhanced the theoretical foundation of BS on NAFLD. Secondly, a novel computational pharmacology research strategy was proposed, which would assist network pharmacology to uncover the scientific connotation TCMs in a more precise manner.

Si-Wu-Tang alleviates metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease by inhibiting ACSL4-mediated arachidonic acid metabolism and ferroptosis in MCD diet-fed mice

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Si-Wu-Tang (SWT), a traditional Chinese medicine decoction has shown therapeutic effects on various liver diseases. However, the hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanism of SWT on MAFLD remain unclear.

METHODS

First, a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet-fed mice model was used and lipidomic analysis and transcriptomic analysis were performed. The contents of total iron ions, ferrous ions, and lipid peroxidation were detected and Prussian blue staining was performed to confirm the protective effects of SWT against ferroptosis. Finally, chemical characterization and network pharmacological analysis were employed to identify the potential active ingredients.

RESULTS

Serological and hepatic histopathological findings indicated SWT's discernible therapeutic impact on MCD diet-induced MAFLD. Lipidomic analysis revealed that SWT improved intrahepatic lipid accumulation by inhibiting TG synthesis and promoting TG transport. Transcriptomic analysis suggested that SWT ameliorated abnormal FA metabolism by inhibiting FA synthesis and promoting FA β-oxidation. Then, ferroptosis phenotype experiments revealed that SWT could effectively impede hepatocyte ferroptosis, which was induced by long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 4 (ACSL4)-mediated esterification of arachidonic acid (AA). Finally, chemical characterization and network pharmacological analysis identified that paeoniflorin and other active ingredients might be responsible for the regulative effects against ferroptosis and MAFLD.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study revealed the intricate mechanism through which SWT improved MCD diet-induced MAFLD by targeting FA metabolism and ferroptosis in hepatocytes, thus offering a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of MAFLD and its complications.

Hepatic-Metabolic Activity of α-Lipoic Acid-Its Influence on Sphingolipid Metabolism and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway in a Rat Model of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Excessive lipid deposition affects hepatic homeostasis and contributes to the development of insulin resistance as a crucial factor for the deterioration of simple steatosis to steatohepatitis. So, it is essential to search for an effective agent for a new therapy for hepatic steatosis development before it progresses to the more advanced stages. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of α-lipoic acid (α-LA) administration on the intrahepatic metabolism of sphingolipid and insulin signaling transduction in rats with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The experiment was conducted on male Wistar rats subjected to a standard diet or a high-fat diet (HFD) and an intragastrically α-LA administration for eight weeks. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine sphingolipid content. Immunoblotting was used to measure the expression of selected proteins from sphingolipid and insulin signaling pathways. Multiplex assay kit was used to assess the level of the phosphorylated form of proteins from PI3K/Akt/mTOR transduction. The results revealed that α-LA decreased sphinganine, dihydroceramide, and sphingosine levels and increased ceramide level. We also observed an increased the concentration of phosphorylated forms of sphingosine and sphinganine. Changes in the expression of proteins from sphingolipid metabolism were consistent with changes in sphingolipid pools. Treatment with α-LA activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which enhanced the hepatic phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR. Based on these data, we concluded that α-lipoic acid may alleviate glucose intolerance and may have a protective influence on the sphingolipid metabolism under HFD; thus, this antioxidant appears to protect from MASLD development and steatosis deterioration.

Chinese herbal medicine decreases incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in diabetes mellitus patients with regular insulin management

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while insulin is a potent mitogen. Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers.

AIM

To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control.

METHODS

We used data acquired from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017. We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for > 3 months. The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for > 3 months per annum during follow-up. We matched the herb users to nonusers at a 1:3 ratio according to age, sex, comorbidities and index year by propensity score matching. We analyzed HCC incidence, HCC survival rates, and the herbal prescriptions involved.

RESULTS

We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017. Among these, 46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM, and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group. The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers. DM patients with regular herb use had a 12% decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.88, 95%CI = 0.80-0.97]. The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers. Patients with a herb use of > 5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC (aHR = 0.82, P < 0.05). Of patients who developed HCC, herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers (aHR = 0.78, P = 0.0001). Additionally, we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents. Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus (Huang Qi) plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Dan Shen), and Astragalus propinquus (Huang Qi) plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. (Tian Hua Fen) were the most frequent combination of single herbs. Meanwhile, Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas.

CONCLUSION

This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12% in DM patients with regular insulin use.

Targeting cell death pathways in intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury: a comprehensive review

Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is a multifaceted pathological process, and there is a lack of clear treatment for intestinal I/R injury. During intestinal I/R, oxidative stress and inflammation triggered by cells can trigger a variety of cell death mechanisms, including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necrosis. These cell death processes can send a danger signal for the body to be damaged and prevent intestinal I/R injury. Therefore, identifying key regulatory molecules or markers of these cell death mechanisms when intestinal I/R injury occurs may provide valuable information for the treatment of intestinal I/R injury. This paper reviews the regulatory molecules and potential markers that may be involved in regulating cell death during intestinal I/R and elaborates on the cell death mechanism of intestinal I/R injury at the molecular level to provide a theoretical basis for discovering new molecules or markers regulating cell death during intestinal I/R injury and provides ideas for drug development for the treatment of intestinal I/R injury.

Paeoniflorin loaded liposomes modified with glycyrrhetinic acid for liver-targeting: preparation, characterization, and pharmacokinetic study

OBJECTIVE

To enhance the retention times and therapeutic efficacy of paeoniflorin (PF), a liver-targeted drug delivery system has been developed using glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) as a ligand.

SIGNIFICANCE

The development and optimization of GA-modified PF liposomes (GPLs) have shown promising potential for targeted delivery to the liver, opening up new possibilities for liver disease treatment.

METHODS

This study aimed to identify the best prescriptions using single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. The formulation morphology was determined using transmission electron microscopy. Tissue distribution was observed through in vivo imaging, and pharmacokinetic studies were conducted.

RESULTS

The results indicated that GPLs, prepared using the thin film dispersion method and response surface optimization, exhibited well-dispersed and uniformly sized particles. The in vitro release rate of GPLs was slower compared to PF monomers, suggesting a sustained release effect. The liver-targeting ability of GA resulted in stronger fluorescence signals in the liver for targeted liposomes compared to non-targeted liposomes. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that GPLs significantly prolonged the residence time of PF in the bloodstream, thereby contributing to prolonged efficacy.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that GPLs are more effective than PF monomers in terms of controlling drug release and delivering drugs to specific targets, highlighting the potential of PF as a liver-protective drug.

Dipeptedyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor downregulates HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in a diabetic rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

CONTEXT

Inflammatory and immune pathways play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Sitagliptin blocks the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme, mechanisms that alter inflammatory pathways and the innate immune system, and by which Sitagliptin affects the pathogenesis of NAFLD weren't previously discussed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand the interaction between Sitagliptin and innate immune response in order to meliorate NAFLD.

METHODS

Thirty- two Wistar male albino rats were categorised into four groups. Rats have received a standard diet or a high-fat diet either with or without Sitagliptin. Serum HMGB1, protein and mRNA expressions of hepatic TLR4 and NF-κB, inflammatory cytokines, and histopathological changes were analysed.

RESULTS

An ameliorative action of Sitagliptin in NAFLD was demonstrated via decreasing HMGB1-mediated TLR4/NF-κB signalling in order to suppress inflammation and reduce insulin resistance.

CONCLUSION

Sitagliptin may in fact prove to be a beneficial therapeutic intervention in NAFLD.

Use of Monoterpenes as Potential Therapeutics in Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Review

Monoterpenes are secondary metabolites of plants belonging to the terpenoid class of natural products. They are the most abundant components of essential oils that are generally considered to have various pharmacological properties. These compounds are reported to have antidiabetic effects in recent years. Due to nature's complex biosynthetic machinery, they also exhibit a reasonable degree of structural complexity/diversity for further analysis in structure-activity studies. Therefore, monoterpenes as antidiabetic agents have been investigated by recent in vitro and in vivo studies extensively reported in the scientific literature and claimed by patent documents. The purpose of this survey is to provide a comprehensive and prospective review concerning the potential applications of monoterpenes in the treatment of diabetes. The data for this research were collected through the specialized databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect between the years 2014 and 2022, as well as the patent databases EPO, WIPO, and USPTO. The research used 76 articles published in the leading journals in the field. The main effect observed was the antidiabetic activity of monoterpenes. This review showed that monoterpenes can be considered promising agents for prevention and/or treatment of diabetes as well as have a marked pharmaceutical potential for the development of bioproducts for therapeutics applications.

Antioxidant potential of acerola by-product along the enterohepatic axis of rats fed a high-fat diet

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC) by-product (ABP) has bioactive compounds that can provide antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects in vivo. In this study we aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of ABP on oxidative damage along the enterohepatic axis of rats fed a high-fat diet for 7 weeks. In addition, we analysed the phenolic compound profile in the enterohepatic axis, and the lipid accumulation in the liver, colon and liver tissue structure of high-fat diet-fed rats treated with fenofibrate drug (100 mg/kg) or ABP (400 mg/kg) via orogastric administration in the 4th to 7th weeks of the experiment. ABP had increased antioxidant potential in vitro and presented ascorbic acid (2022.06 μg/g), carotenoid (2.63 μg/g), and total phenolic compound (5366.44 μg/g) contents. The high-fat diet-fed rats that received ABP (compared to fenofibrate treatment) presented a non-significant reduction of 9.87% in guanine oxidation product, lower relative liver weight, degree of hepatic steatosis, and aspartate aminotransferase level in their blood. ABP also provided high-fat diet-fed rats: an increased amount of total phenolic compounds in caecal digesta (946.42 µg/g), faeces (3299.07 µg/g), colon (256.15 µg/g) and hepatic tissues (454.80 µg/g); higher total antioxidant capacity in plasma and colon; and lower lipid peroxidation in plasma, colonic and hepatic tissues. The results point to the potential antioxidant activity of ABP against oxidative damage along the enterohepatic axis caused by high-fat diet intake. The ABP had a greater protective effect on the healthy liver compared to fenofibrate treatment due to its bioactive compound content.

Molecular Mechanism Pathways of Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world, and its incidence continues to increase each year. Yet, there is still no definitive drug that can stop its development. This review focuses mainly on lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and intestinal flora dysbiosis to understand NAFLD's pathogenesis. In this review, we used NCBI's PubMed database for retrieval, integrating in vivo and in vitro experiments to reveal the therapeutic effects of natural compounds on NAFLD. We also reviewed the mechanisms by which the results of these experiments suggest that these compounds can protect the liver from damage by modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, decreasing insulin resistance and lipid accumulation in the liver, and interacting with the intestinal microflora. The natural compounds discussed in these papers target a variety of pathways, such as the AMPK pathway and the TGF-β pathway, and have significant therapeutic effects. This review aims to provide new possible therapeutic lead compounds and references for the development of novel medications and the clinical treatment of NAFLD. It offers fresh perspectives on the development of natural compounds in preventing and treating NAFLD.

Natural Products for the Immunotherapy of Glioma

Glioma immunotherapy has attracted increasing attention since the immune system plays a vital role in suppressing tumor growth. Immunotherapy strategies are already being tested in clinical trials, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), vaccines, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T cell) therapy, and virus therapy. However, the clinical application of these immunotherapies is limited due to their tremendous side effects and slight efficacy caused by glioma heterogeneity, antigen escape, and the presence of glioma immunosuppressive microenvironment (GIME). Natural products have emerged as a promising and safe strategy for glioma therapy since most of them possess excellent antitumor effects and immunoregulatory properties by reversing GIME. This review summarizes the status of current immunotherapy strategies for glioma, including their obstacles. Then we discuss the recent advancement of natural products for glioma immunotherapy. Additionally, perspectives on the challenges and opportunities of natural compounds for modulating the glioma microenvironment are also illustrated.

Protective effects of paeoniflorin on cardiovascular diseases: A pharmacological and mechanistic overview

Background and ethnopharmacological relevance: The morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the highest of all diseases, necessitating the search for effective drugs and the improvement of prognosis for CVD patients. Paeoniflorin (5beta-[(Benzoyloxy)methyl] tetrahydro-5-hydroxy-2-methyl-2,5-methano-1H-3,4-dioxacyclobuta [cd] pentalen-1alpha (2H)-yl-beta-D-glucopyranoside, C₂₃H₂₈O₁₁) is mostly derived from the plants of the family Paeoniaceae (a single genus family) and is known to possess multiple pharmacological properties in the treatment of CVDs, making it a promising agent for the protection of the cardiovascular system. Aim of the study: This review evaluates the pharmacological effects and potential mechanisms of paeoniflorin in the treatment of CVDs, with the aim of advancing its further development and application. Methods: Various relevant literatures were searched in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Web of Science. All eligible studies were analyzed and summarized in this review. Results: Paeoniflorin is a natural drug with great potential for development, which can protect the cardiovascular system by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, exerting anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, and anti-arteriosclerotic activities, improving cardiac function, and inhibiting cardiac remodeling. However, paeoniflorin was found to have low bioavailability, and its toxicology and safety must be further studied and analyzed, and clinical studies related to it must be carried out. Conclusion: Before paeoniflorin can be used as an effective therapeutic drug for CVDs, further in-depth experimental research, clinical trials, and structural modifications or development of new preparations are required.

Effects of N-Acetylcysteine Supplementation on Oxidative Stress and Expression of Apoptosis-Related Genes in Testicular Tissue of Rats Exposed to Lead

BACKGROUND

Lead occupational exposure is now a main concern in the modern world. Lead is a non-biodegradable element with multi-devastating effects on different organs. Acute or chronic exposure to lead is reported to be one of the most important causes of infertility both in males and females basically by inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis.

OBJECTIVES

The current study scrutinized the mitigating effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on lead toxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptotic/anti-apoptotic genes in the testis tissues of male rats.

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into a control group (G1) and four study groups treated with single and continuous doses of lead with and without NAC administration. Malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were analyzed as oxidative stress biomarkers and the expression of apoptosis-related genes was studied using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Continuous exposure to lead caused a significant decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, and morphology (P < 0.001). Number of germinal cells, Leydig cells, spermatocytes, and the diameter of seminiferous tubule were significantly decreased (P < 0.001) in G3 group. Continuous exposure to lead significantly decreased TAC content, but increased the levels of MDA and 8-OHdG (P < 0.001). Administration of continuous dose of lead dramatically increased expression of Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Cytochrome-C, MMP2, and MMP9 genes in testicular tissue. NAC treatments not only improved morphological changes and sperm quality, but also enhanced antioxidant balance and modulated apoptosis process in testicular tissue of rats.

CONCLUSION

Lead exposure strongly motivated testicular cells towards apoptosis, caused an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, and decreased sperm quality along with morphological changes in testis cells. NAC treatments was associated with protective effects on testicular tissue mainly by rebalancing of the antioxidants capacity, as well as downregulation of apoptosis-related genes.

Terpenoids: Natural Compounds for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Therapy

Natural products have been the most productive source for the development of drugs. Terpenoids are a class of natural active products with a wide range of pharmacological activities and therapeutic effects, which can be used to treat a variety of diseases. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a common metabolic disorder worldwide, results in a health burden and economic problems. A literature search was conducted to obtain information relevant to the treatment of NAFLD with terpenoids using electronic databases, namely PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Springer, for the period 2011-2021. In total, we found 43 terpenoids used in the treatment of NAFLD. Over a dozen terpenoid compounds of natural origin were classified into five categories according to their structure: monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, and tetraterpenoids. We found that terpenoids play a therapeutic role in NAFLD, mainly by regulating lipid metabolism disorder, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The AMPK, PPARs, Nrf-2, and SIRT 1 pathways are the main targets for terpenoid treatment. Terpenoids are promising drugs and will potentially create more opportunities for the treatment of NAFLD. However, current studies are restricted to animal and cell experiments, with a lack of clinical research and systematic structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. In the future, we should further enrich the research on the mechanism of terpenoids, and carry out SAR studies and clinical research, which will increase the likelihood of breakthrough insights in the field.

Paeoniflorin Protects against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice via JNK Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI), represented by acetaminophen (APAP), is a common cause of acute liver failure in clinics. Paeoniflorin (PF) has been proven to demonstrate a significant hepatoprotective effect. However, it is still unclear whether it can be a potential agent against hepatotoxicity induced by APAP. This study aimed to explore the preventive and therapeutic effects and mechanisms of PF on APAP-induced liver injury.

METHODS

Different doses of PF (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were given to C57BL/6 male mice for five consecutive days. After 12 h of APAP (250 mg/kg i.p.) treatment, blood and liver tissues were collected and isolated for detection.

RESULTS

The results showed that the therapeutic effects of PF on APAP mice were presented in the downregulation of the content of serum indices and significantly improved hepatic tissue edema and inflammatory infiltration. Meanwhile, PF reduces the level of the mitochondrial metabolic enzyme. Ulteriorly, it was found that PF has a downregulating effect on the apoptotic reaction and could inhibit the protein expression of CYP2E1/JNK signaling, which in turn reduces the damage of APAP.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that PF acted as a protective agent against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting JNK-related signals, suggesting a novel insight into treating APAP-induced liver injury.

Anti-apoptotic properties of N-Acetyl cysteine and its effects on of Liver X receptor and Sirtuin 1 expression in the liver of rats exposed to Lead

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the expression of Liver X receptor (Lxr), Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), apoptotic-related genes, and the protective role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the liver of rats treated with Lead (Pb).

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, including G1 (control), G2 (single dose of Pb), G3 (continuous dose of Pb), G4 (single dose of Pb + NAC), and G5 (continuous dose of Pb + NAC). Lipid profiles and liver specific enzymes were assessed. Expression of Lxr, Sirt1, Bax and Caspase-3 genes was considered using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Exposure to Pb caused a significant accumulation of Pb in the blood and liver tissue, increase in serum AST, ALT and ALP enzymes, as well as lipid profiles. Chronic exposure to Pb caused a significant decrease in Lxr (3.15-fold; p < 0.001) and Sirt1 (2.78-fold; p = 0.009), but significant increase in expression of Bax (4.49-fold; p < 0.001) and Caspase-3 (4.10-fold; p < 0.001) genes when compared to the control. Combined therapy with Pb + NAC in rats caused a significant decrease in AST, ALT and ALP values (28.93%, 20.80% and 28.86%, respectively) in the blood as compared to rats treated with Pb alone. Co-treated with Pb + NAC significantly increased the expression of Lxr (1.72-fold; p = 0.043) and Sirt1 (2.45-fold; p = 0.008), but decreased the expression of Bax (1.96-fold; p = 0.03) and Caspase 3 (2.22-fold; p = 0.029) genes when compared to rats treated with Pb alone.

CONCLUSION

Chronic exposure to Pb is strongly associated with accumulation of Pb in the blood and liver, hepatic cells apoptosis, down-expression of Lxr and Sirt1 genes and consequently liver injury and abnormal lipid profiles. NAC reversed the Pb-induced toxicity on the liver tissue.

Immunomodulatory Role of Thioredoxin Interacting Protein in Cancer's Impediments: Current Understanding and Therapeutic Implications

Cancer, which killed ten million people in 2020, is expected to become the world's leading health problem and financial burden. Despite the development of effective therapeutic approaches, cancer-related deaths have increased by 25.4% in the last ten years. Current therapies promote apoptosis and oxidative stress DNA damage and inhibit inflammatory mediators and angiogenesis from providing temporary relief. Thioredoxin-binding protein (TXNIP) causes oxidative stress by inhibiting the function of the thioredoxin system. It is an important regulator of many redox-related signal transduction pathways in cells. In cancer cells, it functions as a tumor suppressor protein that inhibits cell proliferation. In addition, TXNIP levels in hemocytes increased after immune stimulation, suggesting that TXNIP plays an important role in immunity. Several studies have provided experimental evidence for the immune modulatory role of TXNIP in cancer impediments. TXNIP also has the potential to act against immune cells in cancer by mediating the JAK-STAT, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt pathways. To date, therapies targeting TXNIP in cancer are still under investigation. This review highlights the role of TXNIP in preventing cancer, as well as recent reports describing its functions in various immune cells, signaling pathways, and promoting action against cancer.

Naringin Ameliorates Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Improves Insulin Resistance in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Insulin Resistance in Obese Rats

Obesity causes progressive lipid accumulation and insulin resistance within muscle cells and affects skeletal muscle fibres and muscle mass that demonstrates atrophy and dysfunction. This study investigated the effects of naringin on the metabolic processes of skeletal muscle in obese rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups: the control group with normal diet and the obese groups, which were induced with a high-fat diet (HFD) for the first 4 weeks and then treated with 40 mg/kg of simvastatin and 50 and 100 mg/kg of naringin from week 4 to 8. The naringin-treated group showed reduced body weight, biochemical parameters, and the mRNA expressions of protein degradation. Moreover, increased levels of antioxidant enzymes, glycogen, glucose uptake, the expression of the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), the glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), and the mRNA expressions of protein synthesis led to improved muscle mass in the naringin-treated groups. The in vitro part showed the inhibitory effects of naringin on digestive enzymes related to lipid and glucose homeostasis. This study demonstrates the potential benefits of naringin as a supplement for treating muscle abnormalities in obese rats by modulating the antioxidative status, regulating protein metabolism, and improved insulin resistance in skeletal muscle of HFD-induced insulin resistance in obese rats.

Nutritional Characterization, Antioxidant, and Lipid-Lowering Effects of Yellow Mombin (Spondias mombin) Supplemented to Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing yellow mombin (YM) on the oxidative, somatic, and lipid parameters in rats fed a high-fat diet. A total of 24 adult Wistar rats were randomized into three groups: normal-fat diet (NF), high-fat diet (HF), and high-fat diet with YM supplementation (HFYM). Diets were administered for four weeks, and YM (400 mg/kg) was supplemented via gavage in the last two weeks of the experiment. After the four-week period, the somatic, serum biochemical, and liver oxidative parameters were evaluated. YM has a high antioxidant activity and significant amounts of phenolic compounds, carotenoids, vitamin C, dietary fibre, and minerals. The HFYM group had the lowest body weight (18.75%), body mass index (17.74%), and adiposity (31.63%) compared with the HF group. YM supplementation reduced low-density lipoprotein by 43.05% and increased high-density lipoprotein by 25.73%, but did not improve the triglyceride levels in the serum. YM treatment improved glucose tolerance and lipid peroxidation, and also enhanced the antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in the liver. These results indicate the lipid-lowering property and potential antioxidant activity of YM against liver oxidative damage caused by a high-fat diet intake, which may be associated with the bioactive compounds present in this fruit.

Protecting Effects of N-acetyl Cysteine Supplementation Against Lead and Cadmium-Induced Brain Toxicity in Rat Models

We aimed to investigate mitigating effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the oxidative stress, apoptosis and Parkinson's disease (PD)-related genes in the brain tissue of male rats exposed to continuous doses of cadmium and lead. Rats were randomly divided into five groups, including G1 (control), G2 (continuous dose of Cd), G3 (continuous dose of Pb), G4 (continuous dose of Cd + NAC), and G5 (continuous dose of Pb + NAC). Biomarkers of oxidative stress, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured. Expression of PD- and apoptosis-related genes was considered using RT-PCR. Chronic exposure to these heavy metals was associated with accumulation of Pb and Cd in the brain and blood and caused severe morphological changes in the brain, as well as decreased body and brain weights. Continuous exposure to Cd and Pb significantly decreased TAC content and SOD expression but increased MDA level in the brain tissues (P < 0.001). A significant increase was observed in expression of PD-related genes, Parkin, Pink1, LRRK2, SNCA, and Caspase-3 in the brain tissues following exposure to Cd and Pb. Pb exhibited stronger toxicity on the brain tissue compared to Cd. NAC supplementation not only improved morphological changes, but also compensated antioxidant capacity and expression of apoptosis- and PD-related genes in the brain tissues when compared to rats exposed to Pb and Cd alone. Chronic exposure to Pb and Cd is strongly associated with accumulation of these heavy metals in the brain, morphological changes, antioxidants depletion, oxidative stress, and brain cells apoptosis. Changes in expression of PD-related genes indicate the higher risk of PD among individuals who are chronically exposed to these heavy metals. NAC can protect brain tissue against Pb and Cd toxicity by elevating antioxidants capacity, mitigating oxidative stress, apoptosis, and down-regulating of PD-related genes.

Rho-kinase inhibition ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetic rats

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is linked to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and insulin resistance. The Rho/ROCK pathway had been involved in the pathophysiology of diabetic complications. This study was designed to assess the possible protective impacts of the Rho/Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (Rho/ROCK) inhibitor fasudil against NAFLD in T2DM rats trying to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Animals were assigned into control rats, non-treated diabetic rats with NAFLD, and diabetic rats with NAFLD that received fasudil treatment (10 mg/kg per day) for 6 weeks. The anthropometric measures and biochemical analyses were performed to assess metabolic and liver function changes. The inflammatory and oxidative stress markers and the histopathology of rat liver tissues were also investigated. Groups with T2DM showed increased body weight, serum glucose, and insulin resistance. They exhibited disturbed lipid profile, enhancement of inflammatory cytokines, and deterioration of liver function. Fasudil administration reduced body weight, insulin resistance, and raised liver enzymes. It improved the disturbed lipid profile and attenuated liver inflammation. Moreover, it slowed down the progression of high fat diet (HFD)-induced liver injury and reduced the caspase-3 expression. The present study demonstrated beneficial amelioration effect of fasudil on NAFLD in T2DM. The mechanisms underlying these impacts are improving dyslipidemia, attenuating oxidative stress, downregulated inflammation, improving mitochondrial architecture, and inhibiting apoptosis.

Paeoniflorin alleviates liver injury in hypercholesterolemic rats through the ROCK/AMPK pathway

Paeoniflorin (PF) is the main active component in Paeonia lactiflora Pall, and it has multiple effects. However, the precise mechanism of PF in hypercholesterolemia is unclear. In this study, rats were either fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 4 weeks to establish the hypercholesterolemic model or administered normal saline or PF (20 mg/kg/day). PF significantly reduced liver weight and the liver index. PF reduced hepatic lipid deposition and inflammation, improved serum lipid metabolism, and significantly inhibited serum and hepatic oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. PF treatment caused a marked decrease in the phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit (p-MYPT)-1, nuclear sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS) levels, and an increase in the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and phosphorylated-AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK). Thus, PF could alleviate liver injury in hypercholesterolemic rats, and the specific mechanism may be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and ROCK/AMPK/SREBP-1c signaling pathway.

Preventive Effect of Gamma-Oryzanol on Physiopathological Process Related to Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Animals Submitted to High Sugar/Fat Diet

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main cause of liver disease. The physiopathological processes involved in the disease are metabolic syndrome (MetS) components (central obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance/type 2 diabetes, hypertension), genetic, and dietary factors, including unsaturated fats and sweetened beverages, which are able to lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions associated with progression and severity of NAFLD. Gamma-oryzanol (γOz) is a nutraceutical obtained from rice brain oil with many benefits to health, from immunological to metabolic. The aim of this study is to test the preventive effect of γOz on the physiopathological process related to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in animals submitted to high sugar/fat diet. Male Wistar rats (±187 g) were randomly divided into four experimental groups to receive: control diet (C, n = 6), control diet plus γOz (C + γOz, n = 6), high sugar/fat diet (HSF, n = 6), or high sugar/fat diet plus γOz (HSF + γOz, n = 6) during 30 weeks. HSF groups also received water plus sucrose (25%). γOz was added to diets to reach 0.5% of final concentration. The HSF group presented MetS, liver inflammation and oxidative stress, and micro and macrovesicular steatosis. HSF plus γOz was protected against these changes. It is possible to conclude that gamma-oryzanol was effective in modulating the physiopathological process related to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in animals submitted to a high sugar/fat diet.

The Effects of High Fat Diet on the Liver of the White Rat Model Obesity

BACKGROUND: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common form of chronic liver disease with the manifestation of over-accumulation of fat in the liver. AIM: The purpose of this study was to assess the degree of occurrence of steatosis in rats induced by a standard diet, a high-fat diet, and a modified high-fat diet. METHODS: This study used 18 white rats of the Wistar strain, divided into three groups, and fed for 9 weeks. Before feeding, all rats were measured their body weight, abdominal circumference, and body length. We measured body weight every week, while body length and waist circumference were measured every 2 weeks. After 9 weeks of diet, all rats were subjected to injection of Ketamine and examined for metabolic markers and histopathological examination of liver organs. RESULT: There was an increase in body weight of rats in the three groups with the average percentage increase in body weight in the three groups of rats before and after being fed a diet for 9 weeks found in Group 1 29.19% 1 (187−264.40 g), Group 2 by 19.12% (219.33−275 g), and Group 3 24.53% (213.33−275 g). Steatosis in Group 1 was 57.50% of hepatocytes containing macrovesicular fat droplets and called Grade 2 (moderate). In contrast, with a high-fat diet, steatosis occurred around 93.33%−95% of hepatocytes containing macrovesicular fat droplets and called steatosis Grade 3 (severe). CONCLUSION: The percentage of hepatocytes that had steatosis in obese rats induced by a high-fat diet was more significant than in obese models induced by a standard diet.

Protective Effect and Mechanism of Plant-Based Monoterpenoids in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases

The protective effect of plant active ingredients against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming increasingly prominent, and the terpenoids have always been the main active compounds in Chinese herbal medicine exerting hepatoprotective effects. However, the related pharmacological effects, especially for monoterpenoids or iridoid glycosides, which have obvious effects on improvement of NAFLD, have not been systematically analyzed. The objective of this review is to systematically examine the molecular mechanisms of monoterpenoids in NAFLD. The signaling pathways of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, insulin, nuclear factor κB, toll-like receptor, adipocytokine, RAC-α serine/threonine protein kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase, and autophagy have been proven to mediate this protective effect. We further compared the experimental data from animal models, including the dosage of these monoterpenoids in detail, and demonstrated that they are effective and safe candidate drugs for NAFLD. This review provides a reference for the development of NAFLD drugs as well as a research guideline for the potential uses of plant monoterpenoids.

Paeoniflorin ameliorates diabetic liver injury by targeting the TXNIP-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome in db/db mice

BACKGROUND

Diabetic liver injury (DLI) is a complication that damages the quality of life in diabetes patients. While paeoniflorin (PF) exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, no data are available on whether PF protects against DLI. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of PF on hepatic steatosis and inflammation in db/db mice, a type 2 diabetes model.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the effects of PF on DLI using diabetic mice model (db/db mice) and high glucose (HG)-induced mouse AML12 cells. The effects of PF on TXNIP-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome in vivo and in vitro were evaluated by Western bloting, RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) analysis. Through molecular docking experiments and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), we studied the binding ability of PF to thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). We use TXNIP siRNA to knock down TXNIP in AML12 cells.

RESULTS

We found that PF reversed abnormal liver function and liver steatosis in db/db mice, while blocking the release of inflammatory cytokines. These effects are associated with PF inhibition of the TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Molecular docking experiments and CETSA also demonstrated that TXNIP is a likely target of PF. In HG-treated AML12 cells, TXNIP knockdown eliminated the beneficial effects of PF.

CONCLUSION

Using a combination of animal and in vitro experiments, this study demonstrated for the first time that PF ameliorates DLI through targeting the TXNIP-activated NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, PF may be a potential therapeutic agent against DLI.

L-theanine prevents progression of nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis by regulating hepatocyte lipid metabolic pathways via the CaMKKβ-AMPK signaling pathway

Background

L-theanine, a non-protein amino acid was found principally in the green tea, has been previously shown to exhibit potent anti-obesity property and hepatoprotective effect. Herein, we investigated the effects of L-theanine on alleviating nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis in vitro and in vivo, and explored the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

In vitro, HepG2 and AML12 cells were treated with 500 μM oleic acid (OA) or treated with OA accompanied by L-theanine. In vivo, C57BL/6J mice were fed with normal control diet (NCD), high‐fat diet (HFD), or HFD along with L-theanine for 16 weeks. The levels of triglycerides (TG), accumulation of lipid droplets and the expression of genes related to hepatocyte lipid metabolic pathways were detected in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Our data indicated that, in vivo, L-theanine significantly reduced body weight, hepatic steatosis, serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), TG and LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) in HFD-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice. In vitro, L-theanine also significantly alleviated OA induced hepatocytes steatosis. Mechanic studies showed that L-theanine significantly inhibited the nucleus translocation of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) through AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway, thereby contributing to the reduction of fatty acid synthesis. We also identified that L-theanine enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation by increasing the expression of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α (PPARα) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 A (CPT1A) through AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Furthermore, our study indicated that L-theanine can active AMPK through its upstream kinase Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase-β (CaMKKβ).

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings suggested that L-theanine alleviates nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis by regulating hepatocyte lipid metabolic pathways via the CaMKKβ-AMPK signaling pathway.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12986-022-00664-6.

Effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine on Genes Expression of c-myc, and Ask-1, Histopathological, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in the Liver of Male Rats Exposed to Cadmium

This study aimed to consider the oxidative damage induced by cadmium (Cd) and apoptosis and the role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in preserving hepatic cells against Cd toxicity. Male rats were randomly divided into seven groups including G1 (control), G2 (single dose of Cd), G3 (continuous dose of Cd), G4 (single dose of Cd + continuous dose of NAC), and G5 (continuous dose of Cd + continuous dose of NAC). Hepatic cells apoptosis was measured using TUNEL assay method. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), TNF-α, IL-10, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured by specific kits. Expression of c-myc and Ask-1 genes was considered using RT-PCR. NAC treatments significantly improved TAC and IL-10, but decreased MDA and TNF-α values in rats that were exposed to a single and continuous dose of Cd (p < 0.05). Exposure to a single and continuous dose of Cd caused a significant increase in c-myc expression by 3.76-fold (p < 0.001) and 8.17-fold (p < 0.0001), respectively. Single and continuous dose treatment of Cd led to a significant increase in Ask1 expression by 4.38-fold (p < 0.001) and 13.52-fold (p < 0.001), respectively. NAC treatments significantly decreased the expression of c-myc, and Ask-1 in rats exposed to single or continuous Cd. Cd exposure is strongly associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, antioxidant depletion, and liver cells apoptosis. NAC can protect liver tissue against Cd by elevating antioxidants capacity, mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as down-regulating of apoptotic genes.

PF-PLC micelles ameliorate cholestatic liver injury via regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and PXR/CAR/UGT1A1 signaling pathways in EE-induced rats

Paeoniflorin (PF) has a certain therapeutic effect on cholestasis liver injury. To further improve the bioavailability of PF and play its pharmacological role in liver protection, PF-phospholipid complex micelles (PF-PLC micelles) were prepared based on our previous research on PF-PLC. The protective effects of PF and PF-PLC micelles on cholestasis liver injury induced by 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE) were compared, and the possible mechanisms were further explored. Herein, we showed that PF-PLC micelles effectively improved liver function, alleviated liver pathological damage, and localized infiltration of inflammatory cells. Mechanism studies indicated that PF-PLC micelles treatment could suppress the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, and further reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory factors. Meanwhile, our experimental results demonstrated that the beneficial effect of PF-PLC micelles on EE-induced cholestasis may be achieved by the upregulation of nuclear receptors and metabolic enzymes (PXR/CAR/UGT1A1). All these results indicate that PF-PLC micelles have great potential in the treatment of cholestatic liver disease.

A pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics study of single-dose total glucosides of paeony capsule on reducing serum total bile acid in hepatic injury rats

CONTEXT

Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP) capsule possesses various hepatoprotective activities. No study is available concerning TGP's concentration-effect relationship on hepatoprotection.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics (PK-PD) modelling on TGP capsule's hepatoprotection after a single oral administration in hepatic injury rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n = 6): control, model (hepatic injury), treated-H (2.82 g/kg), treated-M (1.41 g/kg), and treated-L (0.705 g/kg) groups. All treated groups rats were intragastrically administered a single dose. An LC-MS/MS method was applied to determine paeoniflorin (Pae) and albiflorin (Alb) in rat serum. The effects of single-dose TGP on serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and total bile acid (TBA) were evaluated in hepatic injury rats.

RESULTS

Single dose (2.82, 1.41, or 0.705 g/kg) TGP capsule could real-time down-regulate serum TBA but not ALT and AST in hepatic injury rats within 20 h. An inhibitory effect Sigmoid E_max of PK-PD modelling was established using Pae and Alb as PK markers and serum TBA as effect index. Pharmacodynamic parameters were calculated. For treated-H, treated-M and treated-L group, respectively, E₀ were 158.1, 226.9 and 245.4 μmol/L for Pae, 146.1, 92.9 and 138.4 μmol/L for Alb, E_max were 53.0, 66.0, and 97.1 μmol/L for Pae, 117.4, 249.7 and 60.0 μmol/L for Alb, and EC₅₀ were 9.3, 5.2 and 2.7 μg/mL for Pae, 2.3, 0.8, and 0.8 μg/mL for Alb.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Serum TBA is a sensitive effect index for TGP's single dose PK-PD modelling, and it is potential for further multi-dose studies of TGP' effect on hepatic injury. The study provides valuable information for TGP's mechanistic research and rational clinical application.

Time-Dependent Changes in Hepatic Sphingolipid Accumulation and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway in a Rat Model of NAFLD

Increased lipid bioavailability in a diet favors lipid accumulation, enhancing hepatic lipotoxicity and contributing to insulin resistance (IR) development. The aim of our study was to examine time-dependent alterations in the intrahepatic content of sphingolipids and insulin signaling pathway in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD). The experiment was conducted on male Wistar rats receiving a standard diet or HFD for five weeks. At the end of each experimental feeding week, liver sphingolipids were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. The expression of proteins from the sphingolipid pathway and glucose transporter expression were assessed by Western blot. The content of phosphorylated form of proteins from the insulin pathway was detected by a multiplex assay kit. Our results revealed that HFD enhanced hepatic ceramide deposition by increasing the expression of selected proteins from sphingomyelin and salvage pathways in the last two weeks. Importantly, we observed a significant inhibition of Akt phosphorylation in the first week of HFD and stimulation of PTEN and mTOR phosphorylation at the end of HFD. These changes worsened the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. We may postulate that HFD-induced reduction in the insulin action in the time-dependent matter was exerted by excessive accumulation of sphingosine and sphinganine rather than ceramide.

Effects of Paeoniflorin-6'-O-benzene sulfonate on the pharmacokinetics, excretion, and tissue distribution of leflunomide in rats

Paeoniflorin-6'-O-benzene sulfonate (CP-25) is a novel ester derivative of paeoniflorin, which has been shown to have synergistic pharmacodynamic effects with leflunomide (LEF). To determine the effects of CP-25 on the pharmacokinetics of LEF in rats, we developed an UPLC-MS/MS-based method for the determination of levels of teriflunomide (TER, an active metabolite of LEF). This method was used to determine TER concentrations in the plasma, urine, feces, and bile, heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, intestinal, brain, and synovial tissues, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of rats in the control [LEF (10 mg/kg)] and combined [CP-25(50 mg/kg×7d) plus LEF (10 mg/kg)] groups. TER AUC, T_max , MRT, t_1/2α , and t_1/2β were significantly lower and CL was significantly higher in the combined group than in the control group. Oral CP-25 administration in combination with LEF was found to promote TER excretion in urine, feces, and bile, and to reduce its contents in most tissues and organs, especially in the liver, which may reduce LEF-induced liver injury. CP-25 also increased TER exposure in the synovium and its absorption by PBMCs, and this could explain the synergistic effects of CP-25 and LEF.

Impact of Genetic Polymorphism on Response to Therapy in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

In the last decades, the global prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has reached pandemic proportions with derived major health and socioeconomic consequences; this tendency is expected to be further aggravated in the coming years. Obesity, insulin resistance/type 2 diabetes mellitus, sedentary lifestyle, increased caloric intake and genetic predisposition constitute the main risk factors associated with the development and progression of the disease. Importantly, the interaction between the inherited genetic background and some unhealthy dietary patterns has been postulated to have an essential role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Weight loss through lifestyle modifications is considered the cornerstone of the treatment for NAFLD and the inter-individual variability in the response to some dietary approaches may be conditioned by the presence of different single nucleotide polymorphisms. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the influence of the association between genetic susceptibility and dietary habits in NAFLD pathophysiology, as well as the role of gene polymorphism in the response to lifestyle interventions and the potential interaction between nutritional genomics and other emerging therapies for NAFLD, such as bariatric surgery and several pharmacologic agents.

Cold-pressed raspberry seeds oil ameliorates high-fat diet triggered non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered one of the most serious public health problems affecting liver. The reported beneficial impact of raspberries on obesity and associated metabolic disorder makes it a suitable candidate against NAFLD. In the current study, the chemical profile of raspberry seed oil (RO) was characterized by analysis of fatty acid and tocopherol contents using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in addition to the determination of total phenolic and flavonoids. High levels of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (49.9%), α-linolenic acid (25.98%), and oleic acid (17.6%), along with high total tocopherol content (184 mg/100 gm) were detected in oil. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in RO were estimated to be 22.40 ± 0.25 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 mg oil and 1.34 ± 0.15 mg quercetin (QU)/100 mg, respectively. Anti-NAFLD efficacy of RO at different doses (0.4 and 0.8 mL) in a model of a high-fat diet (HFD) fed rats was assessed by estimating lipid profile, liver enzyme activity, glucose and insulin levels as well as adipokines and inflammatory marker. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), which is a molecular target for NAFLD was also tested. Liver histopathology was carried out and its homogenate was used to estimate oxidative stress markers. Consumption of RO significantly improved lipid parameters and hepatic enzyme activities, reduced insulin resistance and glucose levels, significantly ameliorated inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, RO treatment significantly modulated adipokines activities and elevated PPARγ levels. Raspberry seed oil administration significantly improved these HFD induced histopathological alterations. Moreover, a molecular docking study was performed on the identified fatty acids and tocopherols. Among the identified compounds, oleic acid, α-linolenic acid and γ-tocopherol exhibited the highest docking score as PPARγ activator posing them as a potential anti-NAFLD drug leads. Study findings suggest RO as an effective therapeutic candidate for ameliorating NAFLD.

N-Acetyl cysteine mitigates histopathological changes and inflammatory genes expressions in the liver of cadmium exposed rats

This study aimed to consider the expression of Nrf2, NLRP3 and caspase 1 genes, as well as oxidative stress, and the protective role of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) in the liver of rats treated with cadmium (Cd). Male rats were randomly divided into five groups including G1 (control), G2 (single dose of Cd), G3 (continuous dose of Cd), G4 (single dose of Cd + NAC), and G5 (continuous dose of Cd + NAC). Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured. Expression of Nrf2, NLRP3 and caspase 1 genes was considered using RT-PCR. NAC treatments significantly improved TAC, but decreased MDA values in rats that exposed to continuous dose of Cd (p<0.05). Exposure to continuous dose of Cd caused a significant decrease in Nrf2 expression by 2.46-fold (p<0.001), but enhanced expression of NLRP3 and Caspase 1 genes by 3.13-fold and 3.16-fold), respectively (p<0.001). Compared to rats that treated to continuous dose of Cd, NAC supplementation enhanced the expression of Nrf2 by 1.67-fold (p<0.001) and reduced the expression of NLRP3 and Caspase 1 genes by 1.39-fold (p<0.001) and 1.58-fold (p<0.001), respectively. Down-regulation of Nrf2 and overexpression of NLRP3 and caspase 1 seems to be one of the main mechanisms of Cd toxicity on liver tissue. NAC protects liver tissue against Cd-induced oxidative injuries via enhancement of Nrf2 expression and reduction of NLRP3 and caspase 1 genes.

Astaxanthin attenuates hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-fed rats by suppressing microRNA-21 via transactivation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2

This study examined whether astaxanthin (ASX) could alleviate hepatic steatosis in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) by modulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/miR-21 axis. Rats (n = 8/group) were fed either a standard diet (3.8 kcal/g; 10% fat) or HFD (4.6 kcal/g; 40% fat) and treated orally with either the vehicle or ASX (6 mg/kg) daily for 8 days. Another group was fed HFD and treated with ASX and brusatol (an Nrf2 inhibitor) (2 mg/kg/twice per week/i.p.). ASX prevented the gain in body and liver weights and attenuated hepatic lipid accumulation in HFD-fed rats. In the control and HFD-fed rats, ASX did not affect food intake, serum free fatty acid (FFA) content, and glucose and insulin levels and tolerance. However, serum triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels; hepatic levels of TGs and FFAs; and hepatic levels of Srebp1, Srebp2, HMGCR, and fatty acid synthase mRNAs and miR-21 were reduced and the mRNA levels of Pparα were significantly increased in both the groups. These effects were associated with a reduction in the hepatic levels of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interlukin-6 as well as an increase in superoxide dismutase levels, total glutathione content, and nuclear levels and activity of Nrf2. miR-21 levels were strongly correlated with the nuclear activity of Nrf2. Brusatol completely reversed the effects of ASX. In conclusion, ASX prevents hepatic steatosis mainly by transactivating Nrf2 and is associated with the suppression of miR-21 and Srebp1/2 and upregulation of Pparα expression.

Mechanism of Paeoniae Radix Alba in the Treatment of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Based on Sequential Metabolites Identification Approach, Network Pharmacology, and Binding Affinity Measurement

Screening functional food ingredients (FFI) from medicinal and edible plants (MEP) has still remained a great challenge due to the complexity of MEP and its obscure function mechanisms. Herein, an integrated strategy based on sequential metabolites identification approach, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis was proposed for quickly identifying the active constituents in MEP. First, the sequential biotransformation process of MEP, including intestinal absorption and metabolism, and hepatic metabolism, was investigated by oral gavage, and intestinal perfusion with venous sampling method. Then the blood samples were analyzed by UPLC-Q Exactive Orbitrap HRMS. Second, the network pharmacology approach was used to explore the potential targets and possible mechanisms of the in vivo metabolites of MEP. Third, molecular docking and SPR approaches were used to verify the specific interactions between protein targets and representative ingredients. The proposed integrated strategy was successfully used to explore the heptoprotective components and the underlying molecular mechanism of Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA). A total of 44 compounds were identified in blood samples, including 17 porotypes and 27 metabolites. The associated metabolic pathways were oxidation, methylation, sulfation, and glucuronidation. After further screening, 31 bioactive candidates and 377 related targets were obtained. In addition, the bioactive components contained in PRA may have therapeutic potentials for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The above results demonstrated the proposed strategy may provide a feasible tool for screening FFI and elaborating the complex function mechanisms of MEP.

A botanical dietary supplement from white peony and licorice attenuates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an obesity-related metabolic disease that is highly associated with gut dysbiosis and inflammation. A botanical dietary supplement, mainly containing an herbal pair of white peony root and licorice as well as grape seeds and broccoli extracts (WLT), exerts auxiliary protection against chemical liver injury. However, it is unclear whether WLT protects against the development of NAFLD induced by a high energy diet.

PURPOSE

To investigate the protective role of WLT against NAFLD development induced by a high-fat and high-sucrose (HFHS) diet and its mechanism of action.

METHODS

We investigated the anti-NAFLD effects of WLT on a HFHS diet-induced NAFLD C57BL/6J mouse model by detecting the hepatic triglyceride (TG) level, performing histological examination of the liver tissue, and evaluating glucose tolerance and systemic inflammation. Then, we analyzed the impact of WLT on gut microbiota by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, followed by fecal microbiota transplantation. Furthermore, we performed hepatic transcriptomic analysis of mice with or without WLT treatment using the RNA sequencing approach.

RESULTS

Our results showed that WLT supplement attenuated body weight gain, hepatic steatosis, glucose tolerance, and systemic inflammation in HFHS-fed mice. Moreover, WLT supplement altered the composition of gut microbiota, which contributed at least in part, to the anti-NAFLD effect. Meanwhile, WLT improved the intestinal integrity and comprehensively modulated the expression of hepatic genes in HFHS mice, particularly reducing the expression of genes in the toll-like receptor-mediated inflammatory pathway.

CONCLUSION

WLT is protective against NAFLD formation induced by an HFHS diet, and its effect is associated with the modulation of gut microbiota and inflammation, highlighting the potential of WLT to reduce the risk of metabolic disorders as a functional dietary supplement.

The Mechanism of Jian-Gan-Xiao-Zhi Decoction in Insulin Resistant Adipocytes and Its Component Analysis

Background: Jian-Gan-Xiao-Zhi decoction (JGXZ) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula to treat patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study aimed to analyze the mechanism of JGXZ in adipocytes and detect the main components of the drug in rat serum. Methods: 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were used to establish an insulin resistant (IR) adipocyte model. Lipid accumulation in adipocytes was detected by oil red O staining. After JGXZ treatment, glucose consumption, total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) were analyzed using the corresponding kits. ROS levels were measured by flow cytometry. In addition, Western blot was used to assess LKB1/AMPK and JNK/IRS/PI3k/AKT expressions. The main components of JGXZ in rat serum samples were detected by LC-MS/MS using a Phenomenex Luna C18 column, a mobile phase of methanol and 0.1% formic acid solution, and ESI detection. Results: JGXZ significantly decreased glucose levels and adipogenesis, accompanied by decreased IR ( P < 0.01). Besides, JGXZ markedly affected ROS, LKB1/AMPK, and JNK/IRS/PI3k/AKT levels ( P < 0.01). R1, Rg1, paeoniflorin, Rb1, astragaloside IV, and tanshinone could be significantly quantified. Conclusions: JGXZ decreased glucose and lipid synthesis, possibly via the ROS/AMPK/JNK pathway. R1, Rg1, paeoniflorin, Rb1, astragaloside IV, and tanshinone in JGXZ could play major roles in treating NAFLD, which could assist in the study of the mechanism of JGXZ in treating NAFLD.

The effect of N-Acetyl cysteine on the expression of Fxr (Nr1h4), LXRα (Nr1h3) and Sirt1 genes, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the liver of rats exposed to different doses of cadmium

The aim of this study was to consider the expression of farnesoid X receptor (Fxr), liver X receptor (LXRα) and sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and the protective role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the liver of rats treated with cadmium (Cd). 30 Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups: G1 (control), G2 (single dose of Cd), G3 (continuous dose of Cd), G4 (single dose of Cd + continuous dose of NAC), and G5 (continuous dose of Cd + continuous dose of NAC). The apoptosis of hepatic cells was measured using the TUNEL assay. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), IL-10, TNF-α, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured by specific kits. The expression of Fxr, LXRα, and Sirt1 genes and ratio of Bax/Bcl2 was considered using RT-PCR. While NAC treatment improved TAC and IL-10 values, it decreased MDA and TNF-α levels in the liver of rats exposed to Cd (P < 0.001). NAC decreased Bax/Bcl2 in the liver of G4 and G5 groups (P < 0.001). Exposure to a continuous dose of Cd decreased Fxr, LXRα, and Sirt1 expression by 36.65- (P < 0.001), 12.52- (P < 0.001) and 11.34-fold (P < 0.001) compared to control, respectively. NAC increased Fxr, LXRα, and Sirt1 expression (P < 0.01) and decreased Cd concentrations in both serum and tissue samples in G4 and G5 groups. Our results suggested that NAC protects liver tissue against Cd toxicity by elevating antioxidant capacity, mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and up-regulation of FXR, LXR, and SIRT1 genes.

Research progress in use of traditional Chinese medicine monomer for treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

With the improvement of people's living standards and the change of eating habits, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has gradually become one of the most common chronic liver diseases in the world. However, there are no effective drugs for the treatment of NAFLD. Therefore, it is urgent to find safe, efficient, and economical anti-NAFLD drugs. Compared with western medicines that possess fast lipid-lowering effect, traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) have attracted increasing attention for the treatment of NAFLD due to their unique advantages such as multi-targets and multi-channel mechanisms of action. TCM monomers have been proved to treat NAFLD through regulating various pathways, including inflammation, lipid production, insulin sensitivity, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, and intestinal microbiota. In particular, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPAR-α), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c), nuclear transcription factor kappa (NF-κB), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), sirtuin1 (SIRT1), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), p53 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) are considered as important molecular targets for ameliorating NAFLD by TCM monomers. Therefore, by searching PubMed, Web of Science and SciFinder databases, this paper updates and summarizes the experimental and clinical evidence of TCM monomers for the treatment of NAFLD in the past six years (2015-2020), thus providing thoughts and prospects for further exploring the pathogenesis of NAFLD and TCM monomer therapies.

The effect of N-acetyl cysteine on oxidative stress and apoptosis in the liver tissue of rats exposed to cadmium

We considered the oxidative damage induced by cadmium (Cd) and apoptosis, and the role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in preserving cells against Cd toxicity in the liver of male rats. NAC significantly improved total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) in rats exposed to single and continuous dose of Cd. Single and continuous exposure to Cd caused a significant increase in Bax expression (by 1.5-fold and 3.61-fold, respectively) and significant decrease in expression of Bcl2 compared to control (by 9.14-fold and 2.36-fold, respectively). The expression of Caspase 3 and 8 in rats exposed to Cd was significantly higher than control group (P < 0.05). NAC protects liver tissue against Cd by elevating antioxidants capacity, mitigating oxidative stress, as well as down-regulating of apoptotic factors.

Berbamine induced activation of the SIRT1/LKB1/AMPK signaling axis attenuates the development of hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-induced NAFLD rats

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a chronic metabolic disorder is concomitant with oxidative stress and inflammation. This study aimed to assess the effects of berbamine (BBM), a natural bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid with manifold biological activities and pharmacological effects on lipid, cholesterol and glucose metabolism in a rat model of NAFLD, and to explicate the potential mechanisms underlying its activity. BBM administration alleviated the increase in the body weight and liver index of HFD rats. The aberrations in liver function, serum parameters, and microscopic changes in the liver structure of HFD fed rats were significantly improved upon BBM administration. BBM also significantly attenuated oxidative damage and inhibited triglyceride and cholesterol synthesis. The SIRT1 deacetylase activity was also enhanced by BBM through liver kinase B1 and activated AMP-activated protein kinase. Activation of the SIRT1/LKB1/AMPK pathway prevented the downstream target ACC (acetyl-CoA carboxylase) and elevation in the expression of FAS (fatty acid synthase) and SCD1 (steroyl CoA desaturase). BBM also modulated the expression of PPARs maintaining the fatty acid homeostasis regulation. The assessment of berbamine induced ultrastructural changes by TEM analysis and the expression of autophagic markers LC3a/b, Beclin 1 and p62 revealed the induction of autophagy to alleviate fatty liver conditions. These results show novel findings that BBM induced protection against hepatic lipid metabolic disorders is achieved by regulating the SIRT1/LKB1/AMPK pathway, and thus it emerges as an effective phyoconstituent for the management of NAFLD.

Effect of LncPVT1/miR-20a-5p on Lipid Metabolism and Insulin Resistance in NAFLD

PURPOSE

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely related to lipid metabolism and insulin resistance. The current research mainly attempted to verify the clinical value of LncRNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1), and whether microRNA regulates lipid metabolism and insulin resistance to participate in NAFLD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

81 patients with NAFLD and 78 healthy individuals were enrolled in this study. In addition, C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet to establish NAFLD model in vivo. Serum PVT1 and miR-20a-5p expression in NAFLD patients and mice were assessed by RT-qPCR. ROC curves determine the diagnostic value of PVT1 and miR-20a-5p. NAFLD mice were subjected to IPGTT to detect changes in insulin sensitivity, and the common indicators of lipid metabolism and insulin resistance were also evaluated. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified the regulation mechanism of PVT1 and miR-20a-5p.

RESULTS

PVT1 was upregulated in NAFLD patients and mice, while miR-20a-5p was decreased. Their expression trends were similar in patients with HOMA-IR ≥2.5. What's more, miR-20a-5p, FBG, ALT, and HOMA-IR were independently correlated with PVT1. And PVT1 and miR-20a-5p show high clinical diagnostic value. Bodyweight, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism inductors were increased in NAFLD mice, but these increases were attenuated by PVT1 elimination. Finally, miR-20a-5p might function as the possible miRNA target of PVT1 via the binding sites at 3'-UTR and negatively regulated by it.

CONCLUSION

PVT1 and miR-20a-5p are potential clinical biomarkers of NAFLD, and PVT1 promotes the occurrence of NAFLD by regulating insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism, which may be achieved by targeting miR-20a-5p.