Chrysin modulates ethanol metabolism in Wistar rats: a promising role against organ toxicities

Multi-Endpoint Toxicological Assessment of Chrysin Loaded Oil-in-Water Emulsion System in Different Biological Models

Chrysin is hypothesized to possess the ability to prevent different illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Nonetheless, chrysin has a low solubility under physiological conditions, resulting in limited bioavailability. In a previous study, we utilized an oil-in-water emulsion system (chrysin-ES or chrysin-NE) to encapsulate chrysin, thereby increasing its bioaccessibility and preserving its antioxidant and anti-Alzheimer's properties. To promote the chrysin-ES as a supplementary and functional food, it was obligatory to carry out a safety assessment. Cytotoxicity testing showed that chrysin-ES was harmless, with no killing effect on 3T3-L1 (adipocytes), RAW 264.7 (macrophages), HEK293 (kidney cells), and LX-2 (hepatic stellate cells). The acute toxicity evaluation demonstrated that the 50% lethal dose (LD50) for chrysin-ES was greater than 2000 mg/kg BW. Genotoxicity assessments found that chrysin-ES did not induce DNA mutations in vitro or in vivo. Furthermore, chrysin and chrysin-ES exhibited anti-mutagenic properties against PhIP-induced and IQ-induced mutagenesis in the Ames test, while they inhibited urethane-, ethyl methanesulfonate-, mitomycin C-, and N-nitrosomethylurea-mediated mutations in Drosophila. The present study illustrates the safety and anti-genotoxicity properties of chrysin-ES, allowing for the further development of chrysin-based food supplements and nutraceuticals.

Sophorin mitigates flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in wistar rats

Flutamide is frequently used in the management of prostate cancer, hirsutism, and acne. It is a non-steroidal anti-androgenic drug and causes hepatotoxicity. The current study's objective is to evaluate sophorin's hepatoprotective effectiveness against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Sophorin is a citrus flavonoid glycoside, also known as rutin, which is a low molecular weight polyphenolic compound with natural antioxidant properties and reported to have promising hepatoprotective efficacy. In this study, sophorin was used at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight in purified water via oral route for 4 week daily whereas, flutamide was used at a dose of 100 mg kg/b.wt for 4 weeks daily in 0.5% carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) through the oral route for the induction of hepatotoxicity. Flutamide administration leads to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, an imbalance in redox homeostasis and peroxidation of lipid resulted in reduced natural antioxidant level in liver tissue. Our result demonstrated that sophorin significantly abrogate flutamide induced lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl (PC), and also significantly increasesed in enzymatic activity/level of tissue natural antioxidant such as reduced glutathione(GSH), glutathione reductase(GR), catalase, and superoxide dismutase(SOD). Additionally, sophorin reduced the activity of cytochrome P450 3A1 in liver tissue which was elevated due to flutamide treatment. Furthermore, sophorin treatment significantly decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) level. Immunohistochemical analysis for the expression of inflammatory proteins (iNOS and COX-2) in hepatic tissue was decreased after sophorin treatment against flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity. Moreover, sophorin suppressed the infiltration of mast cells in liver tissue which further showed anti-inflammatory potential of sophorin. Our histological investigation further demonstrated sophorin's hepatoprotective function by restoring the typical histology of the liver. Based on the aforementioned information, we are able to come to the conclusion that sophorin supplementation might benefit wistar rats with flutamide-induced hepatic damage by reducing oxidative stress and hepatocellular inflammation.

A Review on the Role of Phytoconstituents Chrysin on the Protective Effect on Liver and Kidney

BACKGROUND

The chance of contracting significant diseases increases due to an unhealthy and contemporary lifestyle. Chrysin is a flavonoid of the flavone class in numerous plants, including Passiflora and Pelargonium. Chrysin has long been used to treat a variety of illnesses. Chrysin, an essential flavonoid, has many pharmacological actions, including anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, depressive, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective activity.

PURPOSE

This explorative review was commenced to provide a holistic review of flavonoids confirming that Chrysin has a therapeutic potential on the liver and kidney and reduces the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by diverse toxicants, which can be helpful for the toxicologists, pharmacologists, and chemists to develop new safer pharmaceutical products with chrysin and other toxicants.

STUDY DESIGN

The most relevant studies that were well-explained and fit the chosen topic best were picked. The achieved information was analyzed to determine the outcome by screening sources by title, abstract, and whole work. Between themselves, the writers decided on the studies to be considered. The necessary details were systematically organized into titles and subtitles and compressively discussed.

METHOD

The information presented in this review is obtained using targeted searches on several online platforms, including Google Scholar, Scifinder, PubMed, Science Direct, ACS publications, and Wiley Online Library. The works were chosen based on the inclusion criteria agreed upon by all authors.

RESULTS

Chrysin is a promising bioactive flavonoid with significant health benefits, and its synthetic replacements are being utilized as pharmaceuticals to treat various diseases. Findings revealed that Chrysin exhibits hepatoprotective actions against several hepatotoxicants like 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), cisplatin, and others by lowering the levels of liver toxicity biomarkers and enhancing antioxidant levels. Additionally, chrysin has potential nephroprotective properties against various nephrotoxicants, like Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Paracetamol, Gentamicin, Streptazosin, and others by dropping kidney toxicity marker levels, reducing oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant level.

CONCLUSION

According to this revised study, chrysin is a promising phytoconstituent that can be utilized as an alternate treatment for various medications that cause hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. With active chrysin, several dosage forms targeting the liver and kidneys can be formulated.

Folic acid antioxidant supplementation to binge drinking adolescent rats improves hydric-saline balance and blood pressure, but fails to increase renal NO availability and glomerular filtration rate

Binge drinking (BD) is an especially pro-oxidant pattern of alcohol consumption, particularly widespread in the adolescent population. In the kidneys, it affects the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), leading to high blood pressure. BD exposure also disrupts folic acid (FA) homeostasis and its antioxidant properties. The aim of this study is to test a FA supplementation as an effective therapy against the oxidative, nitrosative, and apoptotic damage as well as the renal function alteration occurred after BD in adolescence. Four groups of adolescent rats were used: control, BD (exposed to intraperitoneal alcohol), control FA-supplemented group and BD FA-supplemented group. Dietary FA content in control groups was 2 ppm, and 8 ppm in supplemented groups. BD provoked an oxidative imbalance in the kidneys by dysregulating antioxidant enzymes and increasing the enzyme NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), which led to an increase in caspase-9. BD also altered the renal nitrosative status affecting the expression of the three nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) isoforms, leading to a decrease in NO levels. Functionally, BD produced a hydric-electrolytic imbalance, a low GFR and an increase in blood pressure. FA supplementation to BD adolescent rats improved the oxidative, nitrosative, and apoptotic balance, recovering the hydric-electrolytic equilibrium and blood pressure. However, neither NO levels nor GFR were recovered, showing in this study for the first time that NO availability in the kidneys plays a crucial role in GFR regulation that the antioxidant effects of FA cannot repair.

Effect of Raphanus raphanistrum on chronic kidney disease induced by ethanol in animal model rats

Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Raphanus raphanistrum (radish) on chronic kidney disease damage by reactive oxygen species or free radicals in animal model rats. Total of 18 rats were used in this study, divided into 3 groups and each group consist of 6 rats. Group 1 control (C), group 2 model (M) and group 3 test (T). Model and test group were treated with alcohol to produce chronic kidney disease by reactive oxygen spices for 9 weeks a dose of 1 ml. After that test group was treated with Raphanus raphanistrum juice for 4 weeks 80mg/kg body weight to determine it effect. Raphanus raphanistrum juice effect on behavior of rats through increases the locomotor activity and anxiety. The serum creatinine and uric acid level were significantly improved in T group. The reactive oxygen enzyme test shows that Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) was increase in T group. The Glutathione S-Transferases (GST) and Catalase (CAT) enzyme level was nearly same in C and T groups. This study concludes that compound 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl found in Raphanus raphanistrum juice and possess strong antioxidant activity on Chronic kidney disease induce by ethanol through reactive oxygen species. There is need of more researches to determine the use of natural compound to treat different disease.

Chrysin attenuates paclitaxel-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats by suppressing oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis

AIMS

Paclitaxel (Pax) is a chemotherapeutic drug from the taxane family that is used in the treatment of human cancer, including ovarian, breast, and non-small cell lung carcinoma. Chrysin (CR) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-diabetic, and anti-carcinogenic properties, as well as hepatoprotective and renoprotective activities. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effect of CR against Pax-induced hepatorenal toxicity on inflammation, apoptosis, antioxidant levels, oxidative DNA damage, and histopathology in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n = 7): Group I (normal control), Group II (CR alone at a dose of 50 mg/kg), Group III (Pax at a dose of 2 mg/kg), Group IV (Pax+CR 25), and Group V (Pax+CR 50). The expressions of apoptotic (Bax and Bcl-2) and antioxidant genes (SOD1, CAT, GPx3, and GST) were evaluated using RT-PCR from paraffin sections. Caspase 3, KIM-1, NF-kB, COX-2, and 8-OHdG were also determined by immunohistochemical examination.

KEY FINDINGS

The results revealed that Pax exposure caused hepatic and renal damage in rats, which was indicated by a significant elevation of caspase 3, Bax, KIM-1, NF-kB, COX-2, and 8-OHdG. However, there was a marked downregulation in the expressions of the Bcl-2, SOD1, CAT, GPx3, and GST genes. In contrast, rats given CR in combination showed better gene expression, histological structure, and immunohistochemical staining results.

SIGNIFICANCE

Consequently, CR exhibited the ability to reduce oxidative DNA damage, exert anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties, and mitigate the toxic effects of Pax-induced hepatorenal toxicity.

Protective effect of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. pruriens seed extract on apoptotic germ cells in ethanolic male rats

Thai Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var pruriens (T-MP) seed containing levodopa (L-DOPA) and antioxidant capacity has been shown to improve sexual behavior and male reproductive parameters in rats treated with ethanol (Eth). However, its protective effect on testicular apoptotic germ cells has never been reported. This study aimed to investigate the potential effects of T-MP seed extract on expressions of caspase, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) proteins in Eth rats. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (9 animals/group), including control, Eth, T-MP150+Eth, and T-MP300+Eth, respectively. Control rats received distilled water, and Eth rats received Eth (3g/kg BW; 40%v/v). The T-MP groups were treated with T-MP seed extract at a dose of 150 or 300 mg/kg before Eth administration for 56 consecutive days. The results showed that the seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelial height were significantly increased in both T-MP treated groups compared to the Eth group. Additionally, the caspase-9 and -3, and PCNA expressions were decreased, but D2R expression was markedly increased in T-MP groups. It was concluded that T-MP seed extract could protect testicular apoptosis induced by Eth via changes in caspase, PCNA, and D2R protein expressions.

Chrysin prevents inflammation-coinciding liver steatosis via AMPK signalling

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to elucidate the therapeutic potential of Chrysin (CN) against the high-fat diet (HFD) induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its mechanism.

METHODS

To assess the hypothesis, NAFLD was induced in C57BL/6 mice by feeding a high-fat diet for up to two months, followed by CN administration (for three months). Liver injury/toxicity, lipid deposition, inflammation and fibrosis were detected via molecular and biochemical analysis, including blood chemistry, immunoimaging and immunoblotting. Moreover, we performed proteomic analysis to illuminate Chrysin's therapeutic effects further.

KEY FINDINGS

CN treatment significantly reduced liver-fat accumulation and inflammation, ultimately improving obesity and liver injury in NAFLD mice. Proteomic analysis showed that CN modified the protein expression profiles in the liver, particularly improving the expression of proteins related to energy, metabolism and inflammation. Mechanistically, CN treatment increased AMP-activated protein and phosphorylated CoA (P-ACC). Concurrently, it reduced inflammation and inflammation activation by inhibiting NLRP3 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, CN treatment reduced lipid metabolism by AMPK and inflammasome activation by NLRP3 inhibition, ultimately improving NAFLD progression. These findings suggest that CN could be a potential treatment candidate for the NFLAD condition.

Seed extract of Thai Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. pruriens enhances sexual performance and improves male reproductive damages in ethanol-induced rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Thai Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. pruriens (T-MP) has been traditionally used in treating depressive disorders, dysuria and enhancing male sexual desire. Although T-MP seed is demonstrated to have antioxidant capacity, its aphrodisiac and protective tissue damage properties have never been documented. Recently, ethanol (Eth) is known to cause sexual behavior dysfunction and damage reproductive system. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of T-MP seed extract on sexual behavior dysfunction and reproductive damages in male rats admisted with Eth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T-MP possessing antioxidant activity was determined for L-DOPA content using NMR analysis. Thirty-six male rats were divided into four groups (9 animals/group). Control rats received DW and the ethanol (Eth) group was given with Eth (3 g/kgBW; 40%v/v). In preventive groups (T-MP150 + Eth and MP300 + Eth groups), animals were treated with T-MP extract at a dose of 150 and 300 mg/kgBW before Eth administration for consecutive 56 days. Sexual behaviors including mounting frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), mounting latency (ML), intromission latency (IL), ejaculation latency (EL), post-ejaculatory interval (PEI), and ejaculation frequency (EF) were evaluated. Epididymal sperm quality and daily sperm production (DSP) were examined. Testicular histology was observed using Masson's trichrome staining. The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and expressions of androgen receptor (AR), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR), and tyrosine-phosphorylated (TyrPho) proteins in testis were also determined.

RESULTS

T-MP extract contained L-DOPA and improved sexual behaviors including increased MF and IF and decreased ML and IL in Eth treated rats. Significantly, sperm quality, DSP, and testicular histopathology observed in Eth group were improved after T-MP treatment. T-MP also decreased the testicular MDA levels. Additionally, T-MP could correct testicular functional proteins of AR and StAR except HSP70 expression in Eth group. Expressions of TyrPho proteins in testicular and sperm lysates were improved in co-administered groups.

CONCLUSIONS

T-MP seed extract possessing L-DOPA could enhance the sexual behaviors and protect reproductive damages via improvement of testicular functional proteins.

Chrysin Attenuates Fructose-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver in Rats via Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The Role of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/Angiotensin (1-7)/Mas Receptor Axis

Aim

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, and if untreated, it may propagate into end-stage liver disease. The classical arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has a fundamental role in triggering oxidative stress and inflammation, which play potential roles in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, the nonclassical alternative axis of RAS, angiotensin- (Ang-) converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/Ang (1-7)/Mas receptor, opposes the actions of the classical arm, mitigates the metabolic dysfunction, and improves hepatic lipid metabolism rendering it a promising protective target against NAFLD. The current study is aimed at investigating the impact of chrysin, a well-known antioxidant flavonoid, on this defensive RAS axis in NAFLD.

Methods

Rats were randomly distributed and treated daily for eight weeks as follows: the normal control, chrysin control (50 mg/kg, p.o), NAFLD group (received 20% fructose in drinking water), and treated groups (25 and 50 mg/kg chrysin given orally and concomitantly with fructose). Diminazene aceturate (DIZE) (15 mg/kg, s.c.) was used as a reference ACE2 activator. Key Findings. High fructose induced significant weight gain, hepatocyte degeneration with fat accumulation, and inflammatory cell infiltration (as examined by H&E staining). This was accompanied by a substantial increase in liver enzymes, glucose, circulating and hepatic triglycerides, lipid peroxides, inflammatory cytokines, and Ang II (the main component of classical RAS). At the same time, protein levels of ACE2, Ang (1-7), and Mas receptors were markedly reduced. Chrysin (25 and 50 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated these abnormalities, with a prominent effect of the dose of 50 mg/kg over DIZE and the lower dose in improving ACE2, Ang (1-7), and Mas. Significance. Chrysin is a promising efficient protective remedy against NAFLD; mechanisms include the activation of ACE2/Ang (1-7)/Mas axis.

Myricetin (3,3',4',5,5',7-hexahydroxyflavone) prevents ethanol-induced biochemical and inflammatory damage in the liver of Wistar rats

Purpose: The current investigation was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of myricetin in ethanol-induced liver toxicity in Wistar rats. Research Design: Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into four groups with six animals per group. Group-I animals were administered with vehicle (distilled water), Group II, III, and IV were treated orally with sequential (per week) increase in the dose of ethanol (5, 8, 10, and 12 g/kg b wt per week in each group) for 28 days. Myricetin was treated orally to Group-III and IV animals at the respective doses of 25 mg/kg b wt. and 50 mg/kg b wt. Results: Our results showed that myricetin prevented hepatotoxicity by modulating the production of free radicals, ethanol metabolizing enzymes, and inflammatory markers in vivo. Myricetin also helped maintain lipid membrane integrity, oxidant-antioxidant status, and histoarchitecture. Ethanol administration caused elevation in XO, ADH, and CYP2E1 in hepatic tissue, which significantly normalized with myricetin administration. After ethanol administration, there was a steep increase in the hepatotoxicity biomarkers, including ALT, MDA, and AST. The level of cytotoxicity marker LDH also increased after ethanol administration; myricetin administration decreased the level of all these markers. Moreover, myricetin treatment also reduced ethanol-induced inflammatory markers such as NF-κB and IL-6. Conclusion: Findings from the current study demonstrate that myricetin administration prevents alcohol-induced hepatic injury by influencing the metabolism of ethanol, inhibiting oxidative stress, maintaining lipid profile, and suppressing inflammatory markers.

Ameliorative impacts of chrysin against gibberellic acid-induced liver and kidney damage through the regulation of antioxidants, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis biomarkers

Gibberellic acid (GA3), a widely known plant growth regulator, has been mostly used in agriculture. Little is known regarding its toxicity or the impact of its metabolic mechanism on human health. The current study examined the protective impact of chrysin against GA3-induced liver and kidney dysfunctions at biochemical, molecular, and histopathological levels. Forty male albino rats were allocated into 4 groups. The control group received saline; the chrysin group received 50 mg/kg/BW orally daily for 4 weeks; the GA3 group received 55 mg/kg/BW GA3 via daily oral gavage for 4 weeks, and the protective group (chrysin + GA3) was administered both chrysin and GA3 at the same dosage given in chrysin and GA3 groups. Chrysin was administered 1 h earlier than GA3. The GA3 induced liver and kidney injuries as proven by the elevation of hepatic and renal markers with a significant increase in malondialdehyde levels. Furthermore, a decrease of catalase and glutathione was reported in the GA3-administered rats. Pre-administration of chrysin significantly protected the hepatorenal tissue against the deleterious effects of GA3. Chrysin restored the hepatorenal functions and their antioxidant ability to normal levels. Moreover, chrysin modulated the hepatorenal toxic effects of GA3 at the molecular level via the upregulation of the antiapoptotic genes, interleukin-10 (IL-10), hemoxygenase-1, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 expressions; the downregulation of the kidney injury molecule-1 and caspase-3 mRNA expressions; and a decrease in IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α secretions. Additionally, the pre-administration of chrysin effectively attenuated the GA3-induced hepatorenal histopathological changes by regulating the immunoexpression of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and pregnane X receptor, resulting in normal values at the cellular level. In conclusion, chrysin attenuated GA3-induced oxidative hepatorenal injury by inhibiting free-radical production and cytokine expression as well as by modulating the antioxidant, apoptotic, and antiapoptotic activities. Chrysin is a potent hepatorenal protective agent to antagonize oxidative stress induced by GA3.

Development of Chrysin Loaded Oil-in-Water Nanoemulsion for Improving Bioaccessibility

Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a remarkable flavonoid exhibiting many health-promoting activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nevertheless, chrysin has been addressed regarding its limited applications, due to low bioaccessibility. Therefore, to improve chrysin bioaccessibility, a colloidal delivery system involving nanoemulsion was developed as chrysin nanoemulsion (chrysin-NE) using an oil-in-water system. Our results show that chrysin can be loaded by approximately 174.21 µg/g nanoemulsion (100.29 ± 0.53% w/w) when medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil was used as an oil phase. The nanocolloidal size, polydispersity index, and surface charge of chrysin-NE were approximately 161 nm, 0.21, and -32 mV, respectively. These properties were stable for at least five weeks at room temperature. Furthermore, in vitro chrysin bioactivities regarding antioxidant and anti-AD were maintained as pure chrysin, suggesting that multistep formulation could not affect chrysin properties. Interestingly, the developed chrysin-NE was more tolerant of gastrointestinal digestion and significantly absorbed by the human intestinal cells (Caco-2) than pure chrysin. These findings demonstrate that the encapsulation of chrysin using oil-in-water nanoemulsion could enhance the bioaccessibility of chrysin, which might be subsequently applied to food and nutraceutical industries.

Chrysin: Perspectives on Contemporary Status and Future Possibilities as Pro-Health Agent

Chrysin belongs to the group of natural polyphenols. It can be found, among others, in honey, propolis and fruits and has a wide range of biological activities, including the prevention of oxidative stress, inflammation, neurodegeneration and carcinogenesis. Being a part of the human diet, chrysin is considered to be a promising compound to be used in the prevention of many diseases, including cancers, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. Nevertheless, due to the low solubility of chrysin in water and under physiological conditions, its bioavailability is low. For this reason, attempts at its functionalization have been undertaken, aiming to increase its absorption and thus augment its in vivo therapeutic efficacy. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent research on chrysin, including its sources, metabolism, pro-health effects and the effects of its functionalization on biological activity and pharmacological efficacy, evaluated both in vitro and in vivo.

Protective Mechanism of Edible Food Plants against Alcoholic Liver Disease with Special Mention to Polyphenolic Compounds

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one type of liver disease, causing a global healthcare problem and mortality. The liver undergoes tissue damage by chronic alcohol consumption because it is the main site for metabolism of ethanol. Chronic alcohol exposure progresses from alcoholic fatty liver (AFL) to alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), which further lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular cancer. Therapeutic interventions to combat ALD are very limited such as use of corticosteroids. However, these therapeutic drugs are not effective for long-term usage. Therefore, additional effective and safe therapies to cope with ALD are urgently needed. Previous studies confirmed that edible food plants and their bioactive compounds exert a protective effect against ALD. In this review article, we summarized the hepatoprotective potential of edible food plants and their bioactive compounds. The underlying mechanism for the prevention of ALD by edible food plants was as follows: anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, lipid regulation, inhibition of apoptosis, gut microbiota composition modulation, and anti-fibrosis.

Protective Effects of Chrysin Against Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Induced by Lead Acetate in Rat Kidneys: a Biochemical and Histopathological Approach

In this study, the protective effects of chrysin (CR) on lead acetate (PbAc)-induced renal toxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated with biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical methods. In the study, rats were given orally at 30 mg/kg/body weight (BW) PbAc after CR of 25 and 50 mg/kg/BW was administered to them orally (a total of 7 administrations for 7 days). The results showed that CR reduced urea and creatinine levels by alleviating PbAc-induced kidney damage. It was determined that CR decreases PbAc-induced lipid peroxidation due to its antioxidant properties and increases catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, and glutathione (GSH) levels. It was also detected that CR protects DNA from the toxic effects of PbAc and reduces 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels. Biochemical and immunohistochemical findings demonstrated that CR had anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects and reduced nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), interleukin-33 (IL-33), prostaglandin-E2 (PGE-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), p53 levels, and the activities of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which were increased with PbAc administration. Moreover, CR was found to increase the levels of aquaporin-1 (AQP-1) and nephrine in PbAc-induced kidney tissue. CR decreased the contents of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), sodium (Na), and copper (Cu) and increased those of potassium (K) calcium (Ca) in renal tissue. These results indicated that CR considerably alleviates kidney toxicity caused by PbAc.

New insight and potential therapy for NAFLD: CYP2E1 and flavonoids

Over the years, the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has increased year by year; however, due to its complicated pathogenesis, there is no effective treatment so far. It is reported that Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) plays an indispensable role in the development of NAFLD, and numerous studies have shown that flavonoids have a hepatoprotective effect and can exert a beneficial effect on NAFLD by regulating the activity of CYP2E1. Therefore, flavonoids may become effective drugs for the treatment of NAFLD in the future. This prompted us to review the research progress of the pathological mechanism of NAFLD and the impact of CYP2E1 activity changes during the pathological process, and to summarize the protective effect of flavonoids against CYP2E1 activity.

Promising targets of chrysin and daidzein in colorectal cancer: Amphiregulin, CXCL1, and MMP-9

Colorectal cancer is one of the primary causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The tumor microenvironment contains growth factors; inflammatory chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and pro-oxidants leading to cancer development and progression. Phytochemicals have been used as the main source of anti-cancer agents. Accordingly, the effect of two natural flavonoids (Chrysin and Daidzein) was investigated on the level of amphiregulin (AREG), chemokine ligand (CXCL1), and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine dihydrochloride (DMH) induced colorectal cancer. Rats were injected by DMH (40 mg/kg/week S.C.) for 16 weeks concomitantly with 2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in drinking water for three cycles. Rats were orally treated with chrysin (125 and 250 mg/kg) and daidzein (5 and10 mg/kg) three times/week for the last 8 weeks. DMH + DSS group showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the levels of AREG (2386 ± 18 vs 1377 ± 10 pg/ml), CXCL1 (18 ± 0.9 vs 6 ± 0.83 <mu>g/ml), MMP-9 (1355 ± 88 vs 452 ± 7 pg/ml) compared to normal rats. These findings were associated with a potent antioxidant activity against cytochrome P450 2E1; (CYP2E1). Histopathological findings of the DMH + DSS group showed focal hyperplasia of the mucosa lining overlying crypts with moderate inflammation, dysplastic epithelial cells, and loss of goblet cells. Chrysin and daidzein treatment significantly (P < 0.05) restored the biochemical alterations and reverted histopathological findings near to the normal status. Moreover, chrysin and daidzein exerted anticancer activity against SW620 cells that were associated with decreased the protein expression of p-ERK/ERK and p-AKT/AKT. In conclusion, this study highlighted the potential anticancer role of chrysin and daidzein in the treatment of colon cancer.

Indole-3-Carbinol Derivative DIM Mitigates Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice by Inhibiting Inflammatory Response, Apoptosis and Regulating Oxidative Stress

3,3'-Diindolylmethane (DIM), a metabolic product of indole-3-carbinol extracted from cruciferous vegetables exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Earlier, the product has been demonstrated to possess anti-fibrotic properties; however, its protective effects on liver injury have not been clearly elucidated. In this study, we postulated the effects and molecular mechanisms of action of DIM on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in mice. Acute liver injury was induced by a single intraperitoneal administration of CCl4 (1 ml/kg) into mice. DIM was injected via subcutaneous route for three days at various doses (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) before CCl4 injection. Mice were sacrificed and serum was collected for quantification of serum transaminases. The liver was collected and weighed. Treatment with DIM significantly reduced serum transaminases levels (AST and ALT), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). CCl4- induced apoptosis was inhibited by DIM treatment by the reduction in the levels of cleaved caspase-3 and Bcl2 associated X protein (Bax). DIM treated mice significantly restored Cytochrome P450 2E1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in CCl4 treated mice. In addition, DIM downregulated overexpression of hepatic nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and inhibited CCl4 mediated apoptosis. Our results suggest that the protective effects of DIM against CCl4- induced liver injury are due to the inhibition of ROS, reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators and apoptosis.

Oxidative Stress Parameters in the Liver of Growing Male Rats Receiving Various Alcoholic Beverages

Typical alcohol consumption begins in the adolescence period, increasing the risk of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) in adolescents and young adults, and while the pathophysiology of ALD is still not completely understood, it is believed that oxidative stress may be the major contributor that initiates and promotes the progression of liver damage. The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of alcohol consumption on the markers of oxidative stress and liver inflammation in the animal model of prolonged alcohol consumption in adolescents using various alcoholic beverages. In a homogenic group of 24 male Wistar rats (4 groups—6 animals per group), since 30th day of life, in order to mimic the alcohol consumption since adolescence, animals received (1) no alcoholic beverage (control group), (2) ethanol solution, (3) red wine, or (4) beer (experimental groups) for 6 weeks. Afterwards, the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as levels of cytochrome P450-2E1 (CYP2E1), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl groups, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukine-10 (IL-10) were measured in liver homogenates. The difference between studied groups was observed for CYP2E1 and protein carbonyl groups levels (increased levels for animals receiving beer compared with control group), as well as for ALT activity (decreased activity for animals receiving beer compared with other experimental groups) (p < 0.05). The results suggested that some components of beer, other than ethanol, are responsible for its influence on the markers of oxidative stress and liver inflammation observed in the animal model of prolonged alcohol consumption in adolescents. Taking this into account, beer consumption in adolescents, which is a serious public health issue, should be assessed in further studies to broaden the knowledge of the progression of liver damage caused by alcohol consumption in this group.

Antidotal or protective effects of honey and one of its major polyphenols, chrysin, against natural and chemical toxicities

OBJECTIVE

Honey and its polyphenolic compounds are of main natural antioxidants that have been used in traditional medicine. The aim of this review was to identify the protective effects of honey and chrysin (a polyphenol available in honey) against the chemical and natural toxic agents.

METHOD

The scientific databases such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched to identify studies on the antidotal effects of honey and chrysin against toxic agents.

RESULTS

This study found that honey had protective activity against toxic agents-induced organ damages by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis pathways. However, clinical trial studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of honey and chrysin as antidote agents in human intoxication.

CONCLUSION

Honey and chrysin may be effective against toxic agents. (www.actabiomedica.it).

Toxicological evaluation of a flavonoid, chrysin: morphological, behavioral, biochemical and histopathological assessments in rats

Nowadays, medicines from plant sources play a vital role in healthcare management. Chrysin, a plant flavonoid, possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities. The aim of present investigation was to evaluate the safety of chrysin by determining toxicity after acute and sub-chronic oral administration in rats. Acute oral toxicity (AOT) and sub-chronic oral toxicity studies of chrysin were carried out according to OECD 425 and OCED 408 in Sprague Dawley rats. In AOT, oral administration of chrysin (5000 mg/kg) showed 40% mortality. In the sub-chronic toxicity study, daily oral administration of chrysin (1000 mg/kg) showed significantly decreased body weight whereas liver weight was increased significantly in male rats. A significant alteration in the hematology (RBC, MCH, MCHC, TLC, lymphocytes, and neutrophil) and blood chemistry (albumin, bilirubin, ALT, AST, creatinine, and GGT) were found in chrysin (1000 mg/kg) treated rats which were either limited to one sex or lacked dose-response or were within the normal laboratory ranges. There was a significant increase in hepatic and renal oxido-nitrosative stress in chrysin (1000 mg/kg) treated rats. There was no significant change in electrocardiographic (except heart rate), hemodynamic, the left ventricular function, and lung function test. Renal and hepatic histological aberrations were induced in chrysin (1000 mg/kg) treated rats. In conclusion results of the present investigation determined the LD₅₀ value of chrysin to be 4350 mg/kg whereas NOAEL and LOAEL of chrysin was found to be 500 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively for both the sexes.

Chrysin: Pharmacological and therapeutic properties

Chrysin is a promising phytochemical that is categorized under the class of flavonoids based on its chemical structure. Naturally, it is widely present in propolis, honey, passion fruit, and even in mushrooms and other plant sources, whereas its synthetic counterparts are also being employed for pharmacological purposes. It has widely been employed in treatment of various degenerative disorders and provides cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory functions. Its antioxidant and disease preventing abilities are attributed to its structural diversity arising in ring-A and absence of oxygenation in B and C ring. In this review, the scientific studies are being reported emphasizing benefits and its allied health claims on chrysin in numerous metabolic malfunctions.

Alterations in the Transcriptional Profile of the Liver Tissue and the Therapeutic Effects of Propolis Extracts in Alcohol-induced Steatosis in Rats

The hepatoprotective effects of the ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEP) on alcohol-induced liver steatosis were investigated in Wistar rats. Chronic alcoholic fatty liver was induced by administration of 52% alcohol to male Wistar rats at the dose of 1% body weight for 7 weeks. Then animals were simultaneously treated with 50% ethanol solutions of EEP or normal saline at the dose of 0.1% body weight for 4 further weeks. Serological analyses and liver histopathology studies were performed to investigate the development of steatosis. Microarray analysis was conducted to investigate the alterations of hepatic gene expression profiling. Our results showed that 4-week treatment of EEP helped to restore the levels of various blood indices, liver function enzymes and the histopathology of liver tissue to normal levels. Results from the microarray analysis revealed that the hepatic expressions of genes involved in lipogenesis were significantly down-regulated by EEP treatment, while the transcriptional expressions of functional genes participating in fatty acids oxidation were markedly increased. The ability of EEP to reduce the negative effects of alcohol on liver makes propolis a potential natural product for the alternative treatment of alcoholic fatty liver.

Chrysin ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rats

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is regarded as the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. It begins with the accumulation of fat in the liver (simple steatosis), which if untreated can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chrysin is a flavonoid present in bee propolis and many other plants. The objective of this study was to determine if chrysin can ameliorate NAFLD induced by feeding a high fructose diet (HFD) in rats. The rats were divided into five groups: normal control, HFD control, chrysin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg p.o. body weight). Biochemical estimations were carried out in the serum and liver of rats. The gene expressions of SREBP-1c and PPAR α were determined in the liver. The histopathology of the liver was also studied. Chrysin caused a significant decrease in the serum fasting glucose and improved the insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and liver enzymes. It caused a significant decrease in the liver weight and hepatic free fatty acids, triglyceride, and cholesterol content. Chrysin exerted antioxidant effects, reduced carbonyl content, advanced glycation end products, collagen, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations in the liver. Chrysin significantly reduced the hepatic gene expression of SREBP-1c and increased that of PPAR-α. The histopathology of liver of rats treated with chrysin showed significant decrease in the steatosis, ballooning, and lobular inflammation when compared to the HFD control group. Thus, chrysin demonstrated anti-steatotic, antiglycating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects and seems to be a promising molecule for the management of NAFLD.

Influence of Alcohol Consumption on Body Mass Gain and Liver Antioxidant Defense in Adolescent Growing Male Rats

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that alcohol consumption is a serious problem in adolescents. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of the time of exposure of various alcoholic beverages on body mass as well as on select parameters of liver antioxidant defense in adolescent Wistar rats. Thirty-day-old animals were divided into 12 groups (six animals in each): control and groups receiving various beverages containing 10% of alcohol (ethanol, red wine, beer), observed for two, four, and six weeks. The body weight gain and energy supply were analyzed for body mass assessment. The catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase, transferase (GST), reductase activities, total antioxidant status, and glutathione level (GSH) were analyzed, for a liver antioxidant defense assessment. Group receiving red wine was characterized by the highest alcohol intake, lowest dietary intake, and highest total energy supply (p < 0.05). However, this did not influence body weight gain (p > 0.05). Reduced diet intake in groups receiving alcohol was counterbalanced by its energy value. Therefore, the energy supply was not lower than for the control (p > 0.05). Alcohol consumption and the experiment duration influenced CAT, SOD, and GST activities and GSH level. Alcohol consumption may influence hepatic antioxidant defense in adolescent male rats, but without influence on body weight gain.

A comprehensive review on hepatoprotective and nephroprotective activities of chrysin against various drugs and toxic agents

Chrysin belongs to the flavonoids and has been used as traditional medicine from ancient and has been reported to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological properties. The biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in the hepato- and nephroprotective activities of chrysin were discussed in this review. Chrysin exhibited hepatoprotective activity against 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, carbon tetrachloride, cisplatin, d-galactosamine, doxorubicin, ethanol, lipopolysaccharide/d-galactosamine, methotrexate, ammonium chloride, paracetamol, diethylnitrosamine, streptozotocin, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, thioacetamide, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4,5-b] pyridine (PhIP), ischemia/reperfusion-induced hepatotoxicity and nephroprotective activity against cisplatin, doxorubicin, paracetamol, gentamicin, streptazotocin, N-nitrosodiethyl amine, 5-fluorouracil, adenine, carbon tetrachloride, copper, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin, colistin, Nω-nitro-l-arginine-methylester and ethanol in various animal models due to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic activities. In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms by which chrysin reduced the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of different toxicants. This will help the toxicologists, pharmacologists and chemists to develop new safer pharmaceutical products with chrysin and other toxicants.

Effect of chrysin on the formation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine, a toxic metabolite of paracetamol in rats and isolated rat hepatocytes

Paracetamol (N-acetyl-para amino phenol) is the most commonly used analgesic and antipyretic around the world. Its causes hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity at overdose or even at therapeutic doses. It is primarily metabolized by glucuronidation and sulfate conjugation. It is also metabolized by cytochrome-P450 system (CYP2E1, CYP1A2 and CYP 3A4), leading to the formation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI). The present study was planned to investigate the influence of chrysin (known CYP2E1 and CYP3A4 inhibitor) on the bioactivation of paracetamol to NAPQI using rat liver microsomes in vitro and rats in vivo. Paracetamol (80 mg/kg) was administered orally without or with silymarin (100 mg/kg), a known CYP2E1 inhibitor and chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg) to rats for 15 consecutive days. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC_0-∞) and the peak plasma concentration (C_max) of paracetamol were dose-dependently increased with chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg) compared to paracetamol control group. On the other hand, the AUC_0-∞ and C_max of NAPQI were decreased significantly with chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg). The elevated liver and kidney function markers were significantly reduced by chrysin and silymarin compared to paracetamol control group (P < 0.01). Histopathological studies of liver and kidney also well correlated with liver and kidney function tests. Chrysin also reduced the formation of NAPQI in the incubation samples of rat hepatocytes. The present study (both in vivo and in vitro) results revealed that chrysin might be inhibited the CYP2E1, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of paracetamol; thereby decreased the formation of NAPQI and protected the liver and kidney.

Preparation, characterization, and evaluation of amino acid modified magnetic nanoparticles: drug delivery and MRI contrast agent applications

This study is a report about the synthesis iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs) which modified with positive and negative charged amino acids (AAs). l-Arginine (Arg) and l-aspartic acid (Asp) which have of guanidinium and carboxylic acid groups, respectively, were selected for this study. After loading chrysin in amino acids modified iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (F@AAs@Chrysin NPs), it was characterized by XRD, TGA, FTIR, VSM, and TEM techniques. Finally, MTT assays on HFF-2 and HEK-293 cell lines were performed for determination of biocompatibility of AA coated IONPs. The results show that, the ζ-potential and average size of F@Arg@chrysin NPs and F@Asp@chrysin NPs were to -3.87, -2.12 mV, 18.75 ± 2.40 (mean ± SD (n = 50)) nm, and 19.86 ± 2.22 (mean ± SD (n = 48)) nm, respectively. Also, the results indicated that these F@AAs@Chrysin NPs were appropriate for delivery of chrysin. Furthermore, the phantom MRI studies showed the IONPs can be used as contrast agent for the revealing of tumor.

Protective effects of Lactococcus chungangensis CAU 28 on alcohol-metabolizing enzyme activity in rats

In this study, we investigated the beneficial effects of Lactococcus chungangensis CAU 28, a bacterial strain of nondairy origin, on alcohol metabolism in rats treated with ethanol, focusing on alcohol elimination and prevention of damage and comparing the effects with those observed for Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 19435. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered 20% ethanol and 3 substrates (freeze-dried cells, cream cheese, and yogurt) containing Lc. chungangensis CAU 28 or Lc. lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 19435, which were provided 1 h before or 1 h after ethanol ingestion. Blood samples were collected from the tail veins of the rats at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after ingestion of ethanol, Lc. chungangensis CAU 28 substrate, or Lc. lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 19435 substrate. Alcohol and acetaldehyde concentrations in the Lc. chungangensis CAU 28 substrate-treated rats were significantly reduced in a time-dependent manner compared with those in the Lc. lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 19435 substrate-treated rats. Among the experimental groups, treatment with cream cheese before ingestion of 20% ethanol was found to be the most effective method for reducing both alcohol and acetaldehyde levels in the blood. Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in the Lc. chungangensis CAU 28 substrate-treated rats were significantly lower than those in the positive controls. Moreover, in the Lc. chungangensis CAU 28 cream cheese-treated group, rats showed a reduction of liver enzymes by up to 60%, with good effectiveness observed for both pre- and post-ethanol ingestion. These results suggested that intake of lactic acid bacteria, particularly in Lc. chungangensis CAU 28-supplemented dairy products, may reduce blood alcohol and acetaldehyde concentrations, thereby mitigating acute alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity by altering alcohol-metabolizing enzyme activities.

Protective Effects of Chrysin Against Drugs and Toxic Agents

Issues:

Polyphenolic compounds, especially flavonoids, are known as the most common chemical class of phytochemicals, which possess a multiple range of health-promoting effects. Flavonoids are ubiquitous in nature. They are also present in food, providing an essential link between diet and prevention of several diseases.

Approach:

Chrysin (CH), a natural flavonoid, was commonly found in propolis and honey and traditionally used in herbal medicine. A growing body of scientific evidence has shown that CH possesses protective effects against toxic agents in various animal tissues, including brain, heart, liver, kidney, and lung.

Key Findings:

This study found that CH may be effective in disease management induced by toxic agents. However, due to the lack of information on human, further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of CH as an antidote agent in human.

Conclusion:

The present article aimed to critically review the available literature data regarding the protective effects of CH against toxic agent–induced toxicities as well as its possible mechanisms.

Protective effect of Chlorogenic acid against methotrexate induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in rat liver: An experimental approach

Methotrexate (MTX) is a drug which is used to treat different types of cancers but hepatotoxicity limits its clinical use. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is one of the most abundant naturally occurring polyphenols in the human diet. Here, we assessed the effect of CGA against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity and investigated the underlying possible mechanisms in Wistar Rats. Rats were pre-treated with CGA (50 or 100 mg kg/b.w) and administered a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg, b.w.). MTX caused hepatotoxicity as evidenced by significant increase in serum toxicity markers, histopathological changes. decreased activities of anti-oxidant armory (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR) and GSH content. MTX significantly causes upregulation of iNOS, Cox-2, Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2 expressions, it causes higher caspase 3, 9 activities. However CGA pretreatment alleviates the hepatotoxicity by decreasing the oxidative stress. CGA inhibited Cox-2, iNOS, Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspases 3, 9 mediated inflammation and apoptosis, and improve the histology induced by MTX. Thus, these findings demonstrated the hepatoprotective nature of CGA by attenuating the pro-inflammatory and apoptotic mediators and improving antioxidant competence in hepatic tissue. These results imply that CGA has perfective effect against MTX-induced liver injury. Hence CGA supplementation might be helpful in abrogation of MTX toxicity.

Purple potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) anthocyanins attenuate alcohol-induced hepatic injury by enhancing antioxidant defense

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a serious and challenging health issue. In the past decade, natural components possessing hepatoprotective properties have gained more attention for ALD intervention. In this study, the phytochemical components of anthocyanins from purple potato were assessed using UPLC-MS/MS, and the hepatoprotective effects of purple potato anthocyanins (PPAs) were investigated in the ALD mouse model. Serum and liver biochemical parameters were determined, along with histopathological changes in liver tissue. In addition, the major contributors to alcohol-induced oxidative stress were assessed. The results indicated that the levels of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were lower in the serum of the PPA-treated group than the alcohol-treated group. PPAs significantly inhibited the reduction of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Higher levels of superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione enzymes as well as a reduction in the formation of malondialdehyde occurred in mice fed with PPAs. In addition, PPAs protected against increased alcohol-induced levels and activity of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), which demonstrates the effects of PPAs against alcohol-induced oxidative stress and liver injury. This study suggests that PPAs could be an effective therapeutic agent in alcohol-induced liver injuries by inhibiting CYP2E1 expression and thereby strengthening antioxidant defenses.

Chrysin induces cell apoptosis via activation of the p53/Bcl-2/caspase-9 pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Chrysin is a major active ingredient of flavonoids, known to exhibit protective effects against various types of cancer. However, the anticancer role of chrysin against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In order to evaluate the effects of chrysin on cell viability and apoptosis in human HCC, HepG2 and QGY7701 cells were used in the present study. Cell viability was monitored using an MTT assay. In addition, an Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide kit was used for the labeling of the apoptotic cells, which were then measured using flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to examine the protein expression of p53, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), Bcl-2-associated death promoter (Bad), Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer (Bak), caspases-3 and -9, and cleaved-caspases-3 and -9. The results of the present study revealed that chrysin suppressed the cell viability of HepG2 and QGY7701 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, chrysin induced significant apoptosis in HepG2 and QGY7701 cells. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that chrysin treatment increased the expression of proapoptotic proteins, including p53, Bax, Bad and Bak, while it decreased the protein level of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. It was also demonstrated that chrysin induced apoptosis in the HCC cells by regulating the p53/Bcl-2/caspase-9 signaling pathway. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that chrysin may be a potential candidate agent for the induction of cell apoptosis in human HCC.

Positive linear dose-response relationships, but no J-shaped relationship, between drinking habits and estimated glomerular filtration rate in middle-aged Japanese men

The relationship between drinking frequency and amount of alcohol consumption (i.e., drinking habits) and the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unclear. We aimed to clarify either a linear or J-shaped dose-response relationship between drinking habits and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as a biomarker for identifying individuals at high risk of CKD. In a large-scale cross-sectional study, 403 men and 121 women with an eGFR of 30-60 mL/min per 1.73 m(2) were defined as cases, and 1209 men and 363 women with ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) were randomly extracted as controls (one case subject was matched with three control subjects, matched according to age and season of data collection). We calculated multivariate-adjusted CKD risk and the corresponding mean eGFR according to drinking habits. In men, negative and positive linear relationships with drinking habits were found for CKD risk and mean eGFR (p < 0.001 for all linear terms), respectively, but there were no corresponding J-shaped relationships (not significant for all quadratic terms). In regard to the mean eGFR, however, positive linear relationships were only shown in men in the highest eGFR quartile (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01 for drinking frequency and amount of alcohol consumption, respectively). In women, no association was found. Regarding each drinking habit, we found a positive linear dose-response relationship to eGFR in middle-aged men with an eGFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m(2).

Modulation of Metabolic Detoxification Pathways Using Foods and Food-Derived Components: A Scientific Review with Clinical Application

Research into human biotransformation and elimination systems continues to evolve. Various clinical and in vivo studies have been undertaken to evaluate the effects of foods and food-derived components on the activity of detoxification pathways, including phase I cytochrome P450 enzymes, phase II conjugation enzymes, Nrf2 signaling, and metallothionein. This review summarizes the research in this area to date, highlighting the potential for foods and nutrients to support and/or modulate detoxification functions. Clinical applications to alter detoxification pathway activity and improve patient outcomes are considered, drawing on the growing understanding of the relationship between detoxification functions and different disease states, genetic polymorphisms, and drug-nutrient interactions. Some caution is recommended, however, due to the limitations of current research as well as indications that many nutrients exert biphasic, dose-dependent effects and that genetic polymorphisms may alter outcomes. A whole-foods approach may, therefore, be prudent.

Chrysin protects against focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice through attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation

Inflammation and oxidative stress play an important part in the pathogenesis of focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, resulting in neuronal death. The signaling pathways involved and the underlying mechanisms of these events are not fully understood. Chrysin, which is a naturally occurring flavonoid, exhibits various biological activities. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective properties of chrysin in a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). To this end, male C57/BL6 mice were pretreated with chrysin once a day for seven days and were then subjected to 1 h of middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion for 24 h. Our data show that chrysin successfully decreased neurological deficit scores and infarct volumes, compared with the vehicle group. The increases in glial cell numbers and proinflammatory cytokine secretion usually caused by ischemia/reperfusion were significantly ameliorated by chrysin pretreatment. Moreover, chrysin also inhibited the MCAO-induced up-regulation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), compared with the vehicle. These results suggest that chrysin could be a potential prophylactic agent for cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury mediated by its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects.

Beneficial effects of Chrysin against Methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity via attenuation of oxidative stress and apoptosis

Methotrexate (MTX), a folic acid antagonist, an effective chemotherapeutic agent is used in the treatment of a wide range of tumors and autoimmune diseases. Moreover, hepatotoxicity limits its clinical use. Several studies have already confirmed that the oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of MTX-induced damage in the various organs especially in liver. The aim of this study was to determine the protective effect of Chrysin against MTX-induced hepatic oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats. In the present study, efficacy of Chrysin was investigated against hepatotoxicity caused by MTX in terms of biochemical investigations of antioxidant enzymes, apoptosis, and histopathological alteration in rat liver. In the MTX-treated group there was a significant increase in alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase activity and malondialdehyde content as well as decreased glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, catalase activities and reduced glutathione content were also observed compared to the control group as a marker of oxidative stress. Histopathological alterations and apoptosis through the immunopositive staining of p53, cleaved caspases-3 and Bcl-2-associated X protein in rat liver were observed. Pretreatment of Chrysin at both doses prevents the hepatotoxicity by ameliorating oxidative stress, histopathological alterations, and apoptosis and thus our results suggest that Chrysin has a protective effect against hepatotoxicity induced by MTX and it may, therefore, improve the therapeutic index of MTX if co-administration is done.

Carvacrol ameliorates thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity by abrogation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in liver of Wistar rats

The present study was designed to investigate the protective effects of carvacrol against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in liver of Wistar rats. In this study, rats were subjected to concomitant prophylactic oral pretreatment of carvacrol (25 and 50 mg kg(-1) body weight (b.w.)) against the hepatotoxicity induced by intraperitoneal administration of TAA (300 mg kg(-1) b.w.). Efficacy of carvacrol against the hepatotoxicity was evaluated in terms of biochemical estimation of antioxidant enzyme activities, histopathological changes, and expressions of inflammation and apoptosis. Carvacrol pretreatment prevented deteriorative effects induced by TAA through a protective mechanism in a dose-dependent manner that involved reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. We found that the protective effect of carvacrol pretreatment is mediated by its inhibitory effect on nuclear factor kappa B activation, Bax and Bcl-2 expression, as well as by restoration of histopathological changes against TAA administration. We may suggest that carvacrol efficiently ameliorates liver injury caused by TAA.

Diosmin protects against ethanol-induced hepatic injury via alleviation of inflammation and regulation of TNF-α and NF-κB activation

The present investigation was designed to evaluate the efficacy of diosmin against ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by modulating various mechanisms including ethanol metabolizing enzymes, generation of free radicals, imbalance in oxidant-antioxidant status, oxidative damage to membrane lipids, activation of transcription factors and elevation in inflammatory markers involved in ethanol-induced hepatic damage. Diosmin is a flavone glycoside, having anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Thirty female Wistar rats segregated in five groups, each with six animals. Group I as control followed by Group II, III and IV were treated with ethanol for 28 days. While groups III and IV were administered with diosmin at 10 mg/kg b wt (D1) and 20 mg/kg b wt (D2) respectively prior to ethanol administration. Group V was given only higher dose of diosmin. In ethanol-treated group, ethanol metabolizing enzymes viz., CYP 450 2E1 and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) significantly increased by 77.82% and 32.32% in liver tissues respectively as compared with control group and this enhancement is significantly normalized with diosmin administration. Diosmin administration (D1 & D2) significantly (p < 0.001) attenuates oxidative stress markers i.e., LPO, GSH, GPx, GR and XO by 90.77 & 137.55%, 17.18 & 25%, 37.3 & 49.86%, 21.63 & 44.9% and 56.14 &77.19% respectively. Serum ALT, AST and LDH significantly increased by 102.03, 116.91 and 45.20% in ethanol-treated group as compared with control group. Group III and IV animals showed significant reduction in the serum toxicity markers. Diosmin further alleviated ethanol-induced NF-κB activation, enhanced expression of TNF-α, COX-2 and iNOS. Findings from the present study permit us to conclude that diosmin alleviates alcoholic liver injury via modulating ethanol metabolizing pathway, inhibition of oxidative stress markers and suppression of inflammatory markers. This may represent a novel protective strategy against ethanol-induced liver diseases.