Caffeic acid phenethyl ester improves burn healing in rats through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Enhances Bone Repair-related Factors in MC3T3-E1 Cells

Apical periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial infection in the root canal that spreads to the apical periodontal tissues, resulting in bone resorption around the root apex as the disease progresses. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a growth factor involved in angiogenesis, plays an important role in bone remodeling. We reported that caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a bioactive substance of propolis, induces VEGF in odontoblast-like cells and dental pulp cells. However, the effects of CAPE on bone tissues remain unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of CAPE on MC3T3-E1 cells, mice preosteoblast line. As a result, CAPE up-regulated the production of VEGF and induced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAP/JNK) in MC3T3-E1 cells. Furthermore, CAPE increased the expression of factors involved in osteoblast differentiation, runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Osterix, and Wnt5a/b in MC3T3-E1 cells. In this study, we show that CAPE could induce bone repair-related factors in MC3T3-E1 cells.

CAPE derivatives: Multifaceted agents for chronic wound healing

Chronic wounds significantly impact the patients' quality of life, creating an urgent interdisciplinary clinical challenge. The development of novel agents capable of accelerating the healing process is essential. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has demonstrated positive effects on skin regeneration. However, its susceptibility to degradation limits its pharmaceutical application. Chemical modification of the structure improves the pharmacokinetics of this bioactive phenol. Hence, two novel series of CAPE hybrids were designed, synthesized, and investigated as potential skin regenerative agents. To enhance the stability and therapeutic efficacy, a caffeic acid frame was combined with quinolines or isoquinolines by an ester (1a-f) or an amide linkage (2a-f). The effects on cell viability of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and HaCaT cells were evaluated at different concentrations; they are not cytotoxic, and some proved to stimulate cell proliferation. The most promising compounds underwent a wound-healing assay in HGFs and HaCaT at the lowest concentrations. Antimicrobial antioxidant properties were also explored. The chemical and thermal stabilities of the best compounds were assessed. In silico predictions were employed to anticipate skin penetration capabilities. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) derivatives 1a and 1d as skin regenerative agents, being able to stimulate cell proliferation, control bacterial growth, regulate ROS levels, and being thermally and chemically stable. An interesting structure-activity relationship was discussed to suggest a promising multitargeted approach for enhanced wound healing.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester attenuates indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats

Gastric ulcer is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal ailments worldwide. Indomethacin, one of the most potent NSAIDs, suffers undesirable ulcerogenic activity. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has known health benefits. The current study examined the potential of CAPE to combat indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Animals were randomized into 5 groups: control, Indomethacin (50 mg/kg) mg/kg), Indomethacin + CAPE (5 mg/kg/day), Indomethacin + CAPE (10 mg/kg), and Indomethacin + Omeprazole (30 mg/kg). CAPE prevented the rise in ulcer index, attenuated histopathological changes and preserved gastric mucin concentration. CAPE efficiently significantly prevented accumulation of malondialdehude (MDA) and prevented exhaustion of the enzymatic activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Further, CAPE prevented the rise in the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor kapp-B (NFκB). This was associated with down-regulation of Bax and up-regulation of Bcl-2 mRNA. Finally, CAPE prevented induced indomethacin-induced decrease in heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in gastric tissues. In conclusion, CAPE possesses the ability to prevent indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. This involves, at least partially, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis and enhancement of HSP70 expression.

Patrinia villosa treat colorectal cancer by activating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

At present, the colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignant tumor of the colon and rectum that is often found at the junction of the two, and it will invade many visceral organs and organizations, causing very serious damage to the body of the patient. Patrinia villosa Juss. (P.V), is a well-known traditional chinese medicine (TCM), and is recorded in the Compendium of Materia Medica as a necessary article for the treatment of intestinal carbuncle. It has been incorporated into traditional cancer treatment prescriptions in modern medicine. While the mechanism of action of P.V in the treatment of CRC remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate P.V in treating CRC and clarify the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was based on Azoxymethane (AOM) combined with the Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt (DSS)-induced CRC mouse model to clarify the pharmacological effects of P.V. The mechanism of action was found by metabolites and metabolomics. The rationality of metabolomics results was verified through the clinical target database of network pharmacology, and find the upstream and downstream target information of relevant action pathways. Apart from that, the targets of associated pathways were confirmed, and the mechanism of action was made clear, using quantitative PCR (q-PCR) and Western blot.

RESULTS

The number and the diameter of tumors were decreased when mice were treated with P.V. P.V group section results showed newly generated cells which improved the degree of colon cell injury. Pathological indicators presented a trend of recovery to normal cells. Compared to the model group, P.V groups had significantly lower levels of the CRC biomarkers CEA, CA19-9, and CA72-4. Through the evaluation of metabolites and metabolomics, it was found that a total of 50 endogenous metabolites had significant changes. Most of these are modulated and recovered after P.V treatment. It alters glycerol phospholipid metabolites, which are closely related to PI3K target, suggesting that P.V can treat CRC though the PI3K target and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. q-PCR and Western blot results also verified that the expression of VEGF, PI3K, Akt, P38, JNK, ERK1/2, TP53, IL-6, TNF-α and Caspase-3 were significantly decreased, whereas that of Caspase-9 was increased after treatment.

CONCLUSION

P.V is dependent on PI3K target and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway for CRC treatment.

Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Loaded PEG-PLGA Nanoparticles Enhance Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats

Delayed wound healing is a serious complication of diabetes and a main reason for foot amputation. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a main active constituent of honeybee propolis with reported appealing pharmacological activities. In the current study, CAPE was loaded onto PEG-PLGA nanoparticles and showed a particle size of 198 ± 7.3 nm and polydispersity index of 0.43 ± 0.04. An in vivo study was performed to appraise the wound-healing activity of CAPE-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (CAPE-NPs) in diabetic rats. Wound closure was significantly accelerated in rats treated with CAPE-NPs. This was confirmed via histological examinations of skin tissues that indicated expedited healing and enhanced collagen deposition. This was accompanied by observed antioxidant activity as evidenced by the prevention of lipid peroxidation and the exhaustion of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities. In addition, CAPE-NPs showed superior anti-inflammatory activity as compared with the regular formula of CAPE, as they prevented the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) as well as tumor necrosis-alpha (TNF-α). The pro-collagen actions of CAPE-NPs were highlighted by the enhanced hyroxyproline content and up-regulation of Col 1A1 mRNA expression. Furthermore, the immunohistochemial assessment of skin tissues indicated that CAPE-NPs enhance proliferation and angiogenesis, as shown by the increased expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor subunit B (PDGF-B). In conclusion, CAPE-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles possess potent healing effects in diabetic wounds. This is mediated, at least partially, by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-collagen as well as angiogenic activities.

Development and Evaluation of Virola oleifera Formulation for Cutaneous Wound Healing

In regions adjacent to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, Virola oleifera (VO) resin extract has been popularly used for decades as a skin and mucosal healing agent. However, this antioxidant-rich resin has not yet been investigated in wound healing, whose physiological process might also be aggravated by oxidative stress-related diseases (e.g., hypertension/diabetes). Our aim, therefore, was to investigate whether VO resin presents healing effects through an innovative cream for topical applications. For this, adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Then, four 15 mm excisions were performed on the shaved skin. All treatments were applied topically to the wound area daily. At the end of experiments (0, 3rd, and 10th days) macroscopic analysis of wound tissue contraction and histological analysis of inflammatory cell parameters were performed. The group treated with VO cream showed the best wound contraction (15%, p < 0.05) and reduced levels of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation (118% and 110%, p < 0.05, respectively) compared to the control group. Our results demonstrated the healing capacity of a new formulation prepared with VO, which could be, at least in part, justified by antioxidant mechanisms that contribute to re-epithelialization, becoming a promising dermo-cosmetic for the treatment of wound healing.

Evaluation of the Healing Effect of Ointments Based on Bee Products on Cutaneous Lesions in Wistar Rats

The wound-healing capacity of ointments based on bee products was investigated in vivo on three experimental models of incision, excision and heat burn. For this purpose, four ointments were prepared with propolis, honey, apilarnil (drone brood homogenate) and a mixture of these three apitherapy products. The ointments were applied topically for 21 days. Clinical and macroscopic evaluation was performed throughout the experiment, with the recording of the re-epithelialization period and determination of the wound contraction rate on days 6 and 9. The histopathological examination was performed on days 1, 3, 12 and 21 of the treatment. The topical formulations were also characterized from a rheological point of view in order to verify their stability. HPLC analysis of propolis revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, particularly ferulic acid and p-coumaric which were found in high amounts. All ointments had beneficial effects on wound contraction and the re-epithelialization period, but the most significant result, both macroscopically and especially in terms of histological architecture, was presented by the ointment that contains all three apitherapy products, due to their synergistic effect.

Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br. extract as a skin preserving agent: From traditional medicine to scientific validation

OBJECTIVE

Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br. is a succulent perennial plant native to South Africa and grows invasively in the Mediterranean basin. It is commonly used for the treatment of various diseases, including skin wound healing and regeneration, for which experimental validation is lacking. We therefore evaluated the skin healing properties by testing a C. edulis aqueous leaf extract (CAE) on cell cultures and in enzymatic assays.

METHODS

Micro-morphological analysis of leaves was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. Phytochemical features and antioxidant activity of CAE were evaluated by reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry (RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS), and in vitro cell-free assays. Biological activities were evaluated using keratinocytes and fibroblasts, as well as elastase, collagenase, and hyaluronidase.

RESULTS

CAE showed high carbohydrates (28.59% ± 0.68%), total phenols ([101.9 ± 6.0] g gallic acid equivalents/kg dry extract [DE]), and flavonoids ([545.9 ± 26.0] g rutin equivalents/kg DE). RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS revealed the predominant presence of hydroxycinnamic acids (51.96%), followed by tannins (14.82%) and flavonols (11.32%). The extract was not cytotoxic, had a strong and dose-dependent antioxidant activity, and inhibited collagenase (> 90% at 500 µg/mL) and hyaluronidase (100% at 1000 µg/mL). In cell culture experiments, CAE increased wound closure and collagen production, which was consistent with its high polyphenol content.

CONCLUSION

Our data support the use of the C. edulis for skin care and the treatment of skin problems. Moreover, use of C. edulis for skin care purposes could be an eco-friendly solution to reduce its invasiveness in the environment.

Potential Effects of Phenolic Compounds That Can Be Found in Olive Oil on Wound Healing

The treatment of tissue damage produced by physical, chemical, or mechanical agents involves considerable direct and indirect costs to health care systems. Wound healing involves a series of molecular and cellular events aimed at repairing the defect in tissue integrity. These events can be favored by various natural agents, including the polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). The objective of this study was to review data on the potential effects of different phenolic compounds that can also be found in EVOO on wound healing and closure. Results of in vitro and animal studies demonstrate that polyphenols from different plant species, also present in EVOO, participate in different aspects of wound healing, accelerating this process through their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and their stimulation of angiogenic activities required for granulation tissue formation and wound re-epithelialization. These results indicate the potential usefulness of EVOO phenolic compounds for wound treatment, either alone or in combination with other therapies. Human studies are warranted to verify this proposition.

The Pluripotent Activities of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a strong antioxidant extracted from honey bee-hive propolis. The mentioned compound, a well-known NF-κB inhibitor, has been used in traditional medicine as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. CAPE has a broad spectrum of biological properties including anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing activities. This review characterizes published data about CAPE biological properties and potential therapeutic applications, that can be used in various diseases.

A Novel Therapeutic Approach for Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells: Blocking the PI3K/Akt Signaling Axis With Caffeic Acid

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified in a multiple of cancer types and resistant to traditional cancer therapies such as chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, which may destroy bulk tumor cells but not all CSCs, contributing to reformation tumor masses and subsequent relapse. Moreover, it is very difficult to effectively identify and eliminate CSCs because they share some common phenotypic and functional characteristics of normal stem cells. Therefore, finding better therapeutic strategies to selectively target CSCs might be helpful to reduce subsequent malignancies. In the present study, we found that caffeic acid effectively suppresses self-renewal capacity, stem-like characteristics, and migratory capacity of CD44+ and CD133+ colorectal CSCs in vitro and in vivo. In addition, we also revealed that PI3K/Akt signaling may be linked to multiple colorectal CSC-associated characteristics, such as radio-resistance, stem-like property, and tumorigenic potential. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that caffeic acid effectively targets colorectal CSC populations by inhibiting the growth and/or self-renewal capacity of colorectal CSCs through PI3K/Akt signaling in vitro and in vivo.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester induces apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells via inhibition of survivin

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Drug resistance and drug-induced damage of healthy tissues are major obstacles in cancer treatment. Therefore, to develop efficient anticancer therapy, it is necessary to find compounds that affect tumor cells, but do not exhibit toxicity to healthy cells. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has been demonstrated to have anticancer properties in many types of cancer. In this study, the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of CAPE on the RKO colorectal cancer cell line and CCD 841-CoN normal colorectal cell line was investigated. In addition, changes in the survivin expression were determined. According to the results, CAPE decreased cell viability in the RKO cell line in a dose-dependent manner. Likewise, CAPE induced apoptotic cell death in approximately 40% of the RKO cells. Furthermore, CAPE treatment increased the Serine 15 (Ser15) and Serine 46 (Ser46) phosphorylation of p53, while decreased the survivin expression. The results suggested that CAPE induced apoptosis by regulating p53 phosphorylation, leading to inhibition of the survivin expression. In accordance with the results, it is suggested that CAPE might be evaluated as an alternative drug in cancer therapy and further investigation is needed within this scope.

Development and Characterization of Squalene-Loaded Topical Agar-Based Emulgel Scaffold: Wound Healing Potential in Full-Thickness Burn Model

Full-thickness burns pose a major challenge for clinicians to handle because of their restricted self-healing ability. Even though several approaches have been implemented for repairing these burnt skin tissue defects, all of them had unsatisfactory outcomes. Moreover, during recent years, skin tissue engineering techniques have emerged as a promising approach to improve skin tissue regeneration and overcome the shortcomings of the traditional approaches. Although previous literatures report the wound healing effects of the squalene oil, in the current study, for the first time, we developed a squalene-loaded emulgel-based scaffold as a novel approach for potential skin regeneration. This squalene-loaded agar-based emulgel scaffold was fabricated by using physical cross-linking technique using lecithin as an emulsifier. Characterization studies such as X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed the amorphous nature, chemical interactions, and cross-linked capabilities of the developed emulgel scaffold. The squalene-loaded emulgel scaffold showed excellent wound contraction when compared with the agar gel and negative control. In case of the histopathology and recent immunohistochemistry findings, it was clearly evidenced that squalene-loaded emulgel promoted faster rate of the revascularization and macrophage polarization in order to enhance the burn wound healing. Moreover, the findings also revealed that the incorporation of squalene oil into the formulation enhances collagen deposition and accelerates the burnt skin tissue regeneration process. Finally, we conclude that the squalene-loaded emulgel scaffold could be an effective formulation used in the treatment of the burnt skin tissue defects.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activity Evaluation of the Lebanese Propolis Extract

Background:

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees and known to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activities.

Objective:

This study is aimed at evaluating the in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of the Crude Ethanolic Extract (CE) of Lebanese propolis and its Ethyl Acetate Fraction (EAF).

Method:

Chemical content of propolis was characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography and LC-MS/MS. COX-2 and iNOS protein expression, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PGE2) release in LPS-activated RAW monocytes were achieved respectively by western blot and spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Measurement of paw thickness in carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice and pathologic assessment of inflammation in paw sections were used to judge the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis.

Results:

Pathology analysis revealed in the treated group significant reduction of immune cell infiltration and edema. Both extract and ethyl acetate fraction showed significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in LPS-treated RAW cells characterized by the inhibition of COX-2 and iNOS protein expression, as well as PGE2 and NO release. Chemical analysis of the crude extract and its ethyl acetate fraction identified 28 different compounds of which two phenolic acids and nine other flavonoids were also quantified. Ferulic acid, caffeic acid, chrysin, galangin, quercetin, and pinocembrin were among the most representative compounds.

Conclusion:

Lebanese propolis is rich in a various amount of flavonoids which showed promising antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, chemical analysis showed unique chemical compositions with the potential of identifying ingredients with interesting anti-inflammatory activities.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester promotes wound healing of mice pressure ulcers affecting NF-κB, NOS2 and NRF2 expression

AIMS

In pressure ulcers, the synthesis of reactive oxygen species induced by ischemia and reperfusion leads to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, which impair the closure of these lesions. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), found in propolis, promotes cutaneous wound healing of acute lesions and severe burns. However, the effects of CAPE on wound healing of pressure ulcers have not been investigated. This study investigated the effects of CAPE administration in a murine model of pressure ulcers.

MAIN METHODS

To induce pressure ulcers, two cycles of ischemia and reperfusion by external application of two magnetic plates were performed in the skin dorsum of mice. After the last cycle, animals were treated daily with CAPE or vehicle until they were euthanized.

KEY FINDINGS

The nitric oxide synthesis, lipid peroxidation, macrophage migration, protein nuclear factor kappa B and nitric-oxide synthase-2 expression were increased 3 days after ulceration but decreased 7 days later, in pressure ulcers of the CAPE group compared to that of the control group. CAPE reduced the protein expression of nuclear factor-erythroid2-related factor 2 in pressure ulcers 3 days after ulceration, but increased 7 days later. Myofibroblast density was increased in the CAPE group 7 days after ulceration, but reduced 12 days later when compared to control group. In addition, CAPE promoted collagen deposition, re-epithelialization and wound closure of mice pressure ulcers 12 days after ulceration.

SIGNIFICANCE

CAPE brings forward inflammatory response and oxidative damage involved in injury by ischemia and reperfusion, promoting dermal reconstruction and closure of pressure ulcers.

Wound Healing Potential of Chlorogenic Acid and Myricetin-3-O-β-Rhamnoside Isolated from Parrotia persica

Wound healing is a complex physiological process that is controlled by a well-orchestrated cascade of interdependent biochemical and cellular events, which has spurred the development of therapeutics that simultaneously target these active cellular constituents. We assessed the potential of Parrotia persica (Hamamelidaceae) in wound repair by analyzing the regenerative effects of its two main phenolic compounds, myricetin-3-O-β-rhamnoside and chlorogenic acid. To accomplish this, we performed phytochemical profiling and characterized the chemical structure of pure compounds isolated from P. persica, followed by an analysis of the biological effects of myricetin-3-O-β-rhamnoside and chlorogenic acid on three cell types, including keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. Myricetin-3-O-β-rhamnoside and chlorogenic acid exhibited complementary pro-healing properties. The percentage of keratinocyte wound closure as measured by a scratch assay was four fold faster in the presence of 10 µg/mL chlorogenic acid, as compared to the negative control. On the other hand, myricetin-3-O-β-rhamnoside at 10 µg/mL was more effective in promoting fibroblast migration, demonstrating a two-fold higher rate of closure compared to the negative control group. Both compounds enhanced the capillary-like tube formation of endothelial cells in an in vitro angiogenesis assay. Our results altogether delineate the potential to synergistically accelerate the fibroblastic and remodelling phases of wound repair by administering appropriate amounts of myricetin-3-O-β-rhamnoside and chlorogenic acid.

Anti-colon cancer effect of caffeic acid p-nitro-phenethyl ester in vitro and in vivo and detection of its metabolites

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), extracted from propolis, was proven to inhibit colon cancer. Caffeic acid p-nitro-phenethyl ester (CAPE-pNO₂), a derivative of CAPE, was determined to be an anti-platelet agent and a protector of myocardial ischaemia with more potent effects. In the present study, CAPE-pNO₂ showed stronger cytotoxic activity than CAPE. We revealed interactions between CAPE-pNO₂ and experimental cells. CAPE-pNO₂ induced apoptosis in HT-29 cells by up-regulating P53, cleaved-caspase-3, Bax, P38 and CytoC; CAPE-pNO₂ also up-regulated P21^Cip1 and P27^Kip1 and down-regulated CDK2 and c-Myc to promote cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. In xenograft studies, CAPE-pNO₂ remarkably suppressed tumour growth dose dependently and decreased the expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) in tumour tissue. Moreover, HE staining showed that no observable toxicity was found in the heart, liver, kidney and spleen. In addition, metabolites of CAPE-pNO₂ in HT-29 cells and organs were detected. In conclusion, para-nitro may enhance the anticancer effect of CAPE by inhibiting colon cancer cell viability, inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via the P53 pathway and inhibiting tumour growth and reducing tumour invasion by decreasing the expression of VEGF; additionally, metabolites of CAPE-pNO₂ showed differences in cells and organs.

The effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and thymoquinone on otitis media with effusion in rats

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of CAPE and thymoquinone in experimental rat otitis media with effusion (OME) model.

METHODS

Intraoral approach of eustachian tube orifice cauterization were administered to 36 of 40 rats participating the study. After application of exclusion criterias, 22 rats with appropriate conditions were determined. Totally 26 rats (44 otitis model ears and 8 normal ears) were randomly divided into 5 groups. While group I was consisted of healthy rats, the other groups were consisted of rats with otitis model. Group I (saline + control group; n = 8 normal ears) and group II (saline + otitis model; n = 10 otitis model ears) received intraperitoneally saline solution. CAPE was given intraperitoneally to group III (CAPE + otitis model; n = 12 otitis model ears) at a concentration of 10 mg/kg for treatment of otitis media. Group IV (thymoquinone + otitis model; n = 12 otitis model ears) was treated orally with 10 mg/kg of thymoquinone. Group V (methylprednisolone + otitis model; n = 10 otitis model ears) was treated intraperitoneally with 1 mg/kg of methylprednisolone. Tympanic bulla samples were excised after 10th day of treatment and examined under light microscopy.

RESULTS

Submucosal neutrophil leukocyte count of group I was significantly lower than other groups (II, IV, V) (respectively p < 0,0001, p < 0,001, p < 0,0001, Tukey test), while it was not significantly different from group III (p = 0,056, Tukey test). Submucosal neutrophil leukocyte count of group III was significantly lower than group II and group V (p = 0.029 ve p = 0.03, Tukey test). There was no significant difference between group IV and group V (p = 0,28, Tukey test).

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, it could be suggested that CAPE, anti inflammatory properties proven in the literature, plays an important role in OME treatment.

Nanoemulsion Therapy for Burn Wounds Is Effective as a Topical Antimicrobial Against Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria

The aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of two different nanoemulsion (NE) formulations against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in an in vivo rodent scald burn model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized and received a partial-thickness scald burn. Eight hours after burn injury, the wound was inoculated with 1 × 10(8) colony-forming units of Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus. Treatment groups consisted of two different NE formulations (NB-201 and NB-402), NE vehicle, or saline. Topical application of the treatment was performed at 16 and 24 hours after burn injury. Animals were killed 32 hours after burn injury, and skin samples were obtained for quantitative wound culture and determination of dermal inflammation markers. In a separate set of experiments, burn wound progression was measured histologically after 72 hours of treatment. Both NE formulations (NB-201 and NB-402) significantly reduced burn wound infections with either P. aeruginosa or S. aureus and decreased median bacterial counts at least three logs when compared with animals with saline applications (p < .0001). NB-201 and NB-402 also decreased dermal neutrophil recruitment and sequestration into the wound as measured by myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay and histopathology (p < .05). In addition, there was a decrease in the proinflammatory dermal cytokines (interleukin 1-beta [IL-1β], IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α]) and the neutrophil chemoattractants CXCL1 and CXCL2. Using histologic examination, it was found that both NB-201 and NB-402 appeared to suppress burn wound progression 72 hours after injury. Topically applied NB-201 and NB-402 are effective in decreasing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria growth in burn wounds, reducing inflammation, and abrogating burn wound progression.

Therapeutic potential of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects (Review)

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a naturally occurring compound isolated from propolis extract, has been reported to have a number of biological and pharmacological properties, exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects. Recent in vivo and in vitro study findings have provided novel insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of this natural compound. CAPE has been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties involving the inhibition of certain enzyme activities, such as xanthine oxidase, cyclooxygenase and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. Since inflammation and immune mechanisms play a crucial role in the onset of several inflammatory diseases, the inhibition of NF-κB represents a rationale for the development of novel and safe anti-inflammatory agents. The primary goal of the present review is to highlight the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of CAPE, and critically evaluate its potential therapeutic effects.

Stimulatory effect of Brazilian propolis on hair growth through proliferation of keratinocytes in mice

Propolis is a natural honeybee hive product with the potential for use in the treatment of dermatological conditions, such as cutaneous abrasions, burns, and acne. In this study, we investigated whether propolis stimulates hair growth in mice. Ethanol-extracted propolis, which contains various physiologically active substances such as caffeic acid and kaempferol, stimulated anagen induction in shaved back skin. Anagen induction occurred without any detectable abnormalities in the shape of the hair follicles (HFs), hair stem cells in the bulge, proliferating hair matrix keratinocytes in the hair bulb, or localization of versican in the dermal papilla. Propolis treatment also stimulated migration of hair matrix keratinocytes into the hair shaft in HFs during late anagen in the depilated back skin. Organotypic culture of skin containing anagen stage HFs revealed significant stimulation of hair matrix keratinocyte proliferation by propolis. Furthermore, propolis facilitated the proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. These results indicate that propolis stimulates hair growth by inducing hair keratinocyte proliferation.

Deletion of the α2A/α2C-adrenoceptors accelerates cutaneous wound healing in mice

The α2-adrenoceptors regulate the sympathetic nervous system, controlling presynaptic catecholamine release. However, the role of the α2-adrenoceptors in cutaneous wound healing is poorly understood. Mice lacking both the α2A/α2C-adrenoceptors were used to evaluate the participation of the α2-adrenoceptor during cutaneous wound healing. A full-thickness excisional lesion was performed on the dorsal skin of the α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor knockout and wild-type mice. Seven or fourteen days later, the animals were euthanized and the lesions were formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded or frozen. Murine skin fibroblasts were also isolated from α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor knockout and wild-type mice, and fibroblast activity was evaluated. The in vivo study demonstrated that α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor depletion accelerated wound contraction and re-epithelialization. A reduction in the number of neutrophils and macrophages was observed in the α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor knockout mice compared with wild-type mice. In addition, α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor depletion enhanced the levels of nitrite and hydroxyproline, and the protein expression of transforming growth factor-β and vascular endothelial growth factor. Furthermore, α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor depletion accelerated blood vessel formation and myofibroblast differentiation. The in vitro study demonstrated that skin fibroblasts isolated from α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor knockout mice exhibited enhanced cell migration, α-smooth muscle actin _protein expression and collagen deposition compared with wild-type skin fibroblasts. In conclusion, α2A/α2C-adrenoceptor deletion accelerates cutaneous wound healing in mice.

Caffeic Acid phenethyl ester: consequences of its hydrophobicity in the oxidative functions and cytokine release by leukocytes

Numerous anti-inflammatory properties have been attributed to caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an active component of propolis. NADPH oxidases are multienzymatic complexes involved in many inflammatory diseases. Here, we studied the importance of the CAPE hydrophobicity on cell-free antioxidant capacity, inhibition of the NADPH oxidase and hypochlorous acid production, and release of TNF-α and IL-10 by activated leukocytes. The comparison was made with the related, but less hydrophobic, caffeic and chlorogenic acids. Cell-free studies such as superoxide anion scavenging assay, triene degradation, and anodic peak potential (E_pa) measurements showed that the alterations in the hydrophobicity did not provoke significant changes in the oxidation potential and antiradical potency of the tested compounds. However, only CAPE was able to inhibit the production of superoxide anion by activated leukocytes. The inhibition of the NADPH oxidase resulted in the blockage of production of hypochlorous acid. Similarly, CAPE was the more effective inhibitor of the release of TNF-α and IL-10 by Staphylococcus aureus stimulated cells. In conclusion, the presence of the catechol moiety and the higher hydrophobicity were essential for the biological effects. Considering the involvement of NADPH oxidases in the genesis and progression of inflammatory diseases, CAPE should be considered as a promising anti-inflammatory drug.

Pharmacologic overview of systemic chlorogenic acid therapy on experimental wound healing

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a well-known natural antioxidant in human diet. To understand the effects of CGA on wound healing by enhancing antioxidant defense in the body, the present study sought to investigate the potential role of systemic CGA therapy on wound healing and oxidative stress markers of the skin. We also aimed to understand whether chronic CGA treatment has side effects on pivotal organs or rat bone marrow during therapy. Full-thickness experimental wounds were created on the backs of rats. CGA (25, 50, 100, 200 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered intraperitoneally for 15 days. All rats were sacrificed on the 16th day. Biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical examinations were performed. Possible side effects were also investigated. The results suggested that CGA accelerated wound healing in a dose-dependent manner. CGA enhanced hydroxyproline content, decreased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels. and elevated reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels in wound tissues. Epithelialization, angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen formation increased by CGA while polymorph nuclear leukocytes infiltration decreased. CGA modulated matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitor-2 expression in biopsies. Otherwise, high dose of CGA increased lipid peroxidation of liver and kidney without affecting the heart and muscle samples. Chronic CGA increased micronuclei formation and induced cytotoxicity in the bone marrow. In conclusion, systemic CGA has beneficial effects in improving wound repair. Antioxidant, free radical scavenger, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory effects of CGA may ameliorate wound healing. High dose of CGA may induce side effects. In light of these observations, CGA supplementation or dietary CGA may have benefit on wound healing.

CAPE promotes the expansion of human umbilical cord blood-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in vitro

Due to the low number of collectable stem cells from single umbilical cord blood (UCB) unit, their initial uses were limited to pediatric therapies. Clinical applications of UCB hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) would become feasible if there were a culture method that can effectively expand HSPCs while maintaining their self-renewal capacity. In recent years, numerous attempts have been made to expand human UCB HSPCs in vitro. In this study, we report that caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a small molecule from honeybee extract, can promote in vitro expansion of HSPCs. Treatment with CAPE increased the percentage of HSPCs in cultured mononuclear cells. Importantly, culture of CD34(+) HSPCs with CAPE resulted in a significant increase in total colony-forming units and high proliferative potential colony-forming units. Burst-forming unit-erythroid was the mostly affected colony type, which increased more than 3.7-fold in 1 μg mL(-1) CAPE treatment group when compared to the controls. CAPE appears to induce HSPC expansion by upregulating the expression of SCF and HIF1-α. Our data suggest that CAPE may become a potent medium supplement for in vitro HSPC expansion.

Discovery of bile salt hydrolase inhibitors using an efficient high-throughput screening system

The global trend of restricting the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in animal production necessitates the need to develop valid alternatives to maintain productivity and sustainability of food animals. Previous studies suggest inhibition of bile salt hydrolase (BSH), an intestinal bacteria-produced enzyme that exerts negative impact on host fat digestion and utilization, is a promising approach to promote animal growth performance. To achieve the long term goal of developing novel alternatives to AGPs, in this study, a rapid and convenient high-throughput screening (HTS) system was developed and successfully used for identification of BSH inhibitors. With the aid of a high-purity BSH from a chicken Lactobacillus salivarius strain, we optimized various screening conditions (e.g. BSH concentration, reaction buffer pH, incubation temperature and length, substrate type and concentration) and establish a precipitation-based screening approach to identify BSH inhibitors using 96-well or 384-well microplates. A pilot HTS was performed using a small compound library comprised of 2,240 biologically active and structurally diverse compounds. Among the 107 hits, several promising and potent BSH inhibitors (e.g. riboflavin and phenethyl caffeate) were selected and validated by standard BSH activity assay. Interestingly, the HTS also identified a panel of antibiotics as BSH inhibitor; in particular, various tetracycline antibiotics and roxarsone, the widely used AGP, have been demonstrated to display potent inhibitory effect on BSH. Together, this study developed an efficient HTS system and identified several BSH inhibitors with potential as alternatives to AGP. In addition, the findings from this study also suggest a new mode of action of AGP for promoting animal growth.