Inhibition of TNF-α–mediated NF-κB Activation by Ginsenoside Rg1 Contributes the Attenuation of Cardiac Hypertrophy Induced by Abdominal Aorta Coarctation

Effects of Shenmai injection against chronic heart failure: a meta-analysis and systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the clinical and preclinical efficacy of SMI in treating CHF, and to summarize the relevant mechanisms of action in order to provide evidence for its role in CHF treatment. Methods: A systematic computerized search of eight databases and three registry systems was performed, with the time frame spanning from the inception of the databases to 30 June 2023. Strict procedures were used for data extraction, quality assessment, and data analysis. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using RoB-2 and SYRCLE tools. Statistical analysis was performed using Rev Man 5.4 software, using either fixed-effects or random-effects models. Results: A total of 25 clinical trials (including test group 1,367 patients, control group 1,338 patients) and 11 animal studies (including 201 animals) were included in this review. The meta-analysis of clinical studies showed that SMI can improve cardiac function indicators (LVEF, LVFS, LVEDV, LVESV, LVEDD, LVESD) (p < 0.00001), reduce BNP/NT-proBNP levels (p < 0.01), and improve inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, TNF-α, IL-6) (p < 0.00001) and endothelin (ET) levels (p < 0.0001). In animal studies, SMI demonstrated improved cardiac function (LVEF, LVFS) (p < 0.05), and improved heart failure markers (NT-proBNP, p < 0.05) when compared to control groups. Conclusion: This study represents the first meta-analysis which includes both preclinical and clinical studies on SMI. Clinical and animal studies have shown that SMI can improve cardiac function in CHF patients through its anti-apoptotic effects, antioxidant activities, anti-inflammatory effects, and improvement of myocardial metabolism. This study has certain limitations in terms of literature quality, quantity, and follow-up time. Therefore, the conclusions drawn from this study may require further validation through larger-scale, high-quality RCT trials.

Nephroprotective effect of Physalis peruviana L. calyx extract and its butanolic fraction against cadmium chloride toxicity in rats and molecular docking of isolated compounds

BACKGROUND

Cadmium is an environmentally toxic metal that has deleterious effects on both animals and humans due to its accumulation in different body tissues. Physalis peruviana L. fruit and calyx contain many active constituents which are used traditionally for their different biological activities. Based on the traditional uses of P. peruviana L. calyx, we aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of their 80% aqueous methanol extract (AME) and n-butanol fraction (Bu.F.) against cadmium chloride-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and to correlate this activity with phytoconstituents isolated using molecular docking studies.

METHODS

The n-butanol fraction of P. peruviana L. calyx was fractionated using various chromatographic techniques and the isolated compounds were identified based on their chemical and spectroscopic data. The nephroprotective activity was assessed using cadmium chloride-induced nephrotoxicity in the rat model, by measuring some important parameters such as body weight, kidney weight, serum urea, and creatinine levels, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers, and histopathological examinations of kidney tissue. Molecular docking studies of the isolated compounds were performed.

RESULTS

Three withanolides named 4 β-hydroxywithanolide E (1), Physalin B (2) and 3α, 14β-dihydroxywithaphysalin N (3) were isolated and identified from the n-butanol fraction of P. peruviana L calyx extract. The extract and its butanol fraction significantly improved the serum kidney function markers and tissue oxidative status including malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT). Additionally, the extracts significantly decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κβ). Moreover, the histological changes were ameliorated by the extracts. The molecular docking study showed that the isolated compounds displayed a remarkable inhibitory activity against IκB kinase.

CONCLUSION

The AME and its butanol fraction of P. peruviana L calyx showed potential nephroprotective activity against cadmium chloride-induced nephrotoxicity which is correlated at least in part to its considerable withanolides content.

The efficacy of ginseng-containing traditional Chinese medicine in patients with acute decompensated heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of ginseng-containing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Methods: Seven databases were included from establishment until 10 July 2022. Pooled data were analyzed with random-effects model. The risk of bias was measured by the risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Modified Jadad scale score was used to assess the quality of including studies. The meta-analysis was performed with RevMan 5.3. Trial sequential analysis was assessed to avoid type I errors. We have registered our protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42021267742). Results: Twenty-eight articles were included. The results demonstrated that compared with conventional western therapy (WT), ginseng-containing TCM combined with WT further improved clinical efficacy (RR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.20-1.29, p < 0.00001, I2 = 8%), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (MD: 5.80, 95% CI: 4.86-6.74, p < 0.00001, I2 = 89%), stroke volume (MD: 13.80, 95% CI: 12.66-14.95, p < 0.00001, I2 = 93%), 6-min walk test (MD: 53.03, 95% CI: 20.76-85.29, p = 0.001, I2 = 97%), decreased 6-month rehospitalization (RR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.18-1.11, p = 0.08, I2 = 0%), brain natriuretic peptide (MD: 188.12, 95% CI: 248.13 to -128.11, p < 0.00001, I2 = 94%), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (MD = -503.29; 95% CI: 753.18 to -253.40, p < 0.0001, I2 = 89%) and Minnesota living heart failure questionnaire scores (MD: 9.68, 95% CI: 13.67 to -5.70, p < 0.00001, I2 = 83%). The ROB2 assessment and modified Jaded scores showed most studies included were with some concerns. Conclusion: Compared with WT alone, ginseng-containing TCM is a possible way to benefit ADHF patients. However, limited by the quality of including trials, more high-quality studies are needed to provide reliable evidence.

Ginsenoside Rg1 exerts anti‑apoptotic effects on non‑alcoholic fatty liver cells by downregulating the expression of SGPL1

Non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a high incidence, and can lead to liver cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma in severe cases. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no safe and effective treatment for the management of this disease. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) is an active monomer derived from ginseng and notoginseng. In the present study, HHL‑5 hepatocytes were used to establish an in vitro cell model of NAFLD by medium‑ and long‑chain fat emulsion treatment, and the effects of Rg1 on adipose accumulation, apoptosis and the expression levels of apoptosis‑related proteins in HHL‑5 hepatocytes were examined. The results demonstrated that Rg1 inhibited the accumulation of fat in HHL‑5 cells, while inhibiting apoptosis, and Rg1 downregulated the expression levels of the pro‑apoptotic protein Bax and upregulated the expression levels of the anti‑apoptotic protein Bcl‑2, indicating that Rg1 could promote the stability or integrity of mitochondria and exert an anti‑apoptotic effect by regulating Bcl‑2 family proteins. In addition, Rg1 markedly downregulated the expression levels of sphingosine‑1‑phosphate lyase 1 (SGPL1), a key enzyme in the sphingosine signaling pathway, in HHL‑5 cells with steatosis, and increased the expression levels of the downstream pro‑survival signals phosphorylated (p‑)Akt and p‑Erk1/2. Furthermore, overexpression of SGPL1 abolished the anti‑apoptotic effect of Rg1 on SGPL1‑overexpressing HHL‑5 cells with steatosis, and downregulated the expression levels of pro‑survival proteins, such as Bcl‑2, p‑Akt and p‑Erk1/2, whereas the expression levels of pro‑apoptotic Bax were markedly increased. In conclusion, although there are some reports regarding the protective effect of Rg1 on fatty liver cells, to the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to report that Rg1 may exert an anti‑apoptotic effect on fatty liver cells by regulating SGPL1 in the sphingosine signaling pathway. Rg1 is the main component of the prescription drug Xuesaitong in China; therefore, the findings of the present study may provide a theoretical molecular basis for the use of Rg1 or Xuesaitong in the treatment of patients with NAFLD.

YQFM alleviated cardiac hypertrophy by apoptosis inhibition and autophagy regulation via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a traditional compound preparation of Chinese medicine, Yiqi Fumai lyophilized injection (YQFM) has protective effects on various cardiac diseases including cardiac hypertrophy, which is the primary cause of arrhythmia. However, the involved mechanism remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was projected to investigate whether YQFM could prevent cardiac hypertrophy and arrhythmia concurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cardiac hypertrophy rats were established by transverse aortic ligation and the H9c2 hypertrophy cardiomyocyte was induced by angiotensin II (AngII). The electrocardiogram (ECG) was conducted to estimate the arrhythmia occurrence of cardiac hypertrophy rats under isoprenaline (iso) treatment. The cardiac related indicators and histopathology were also detected. The protective effects of YQFM on H9c2 hypertrophy cardiomyocyte were determined by the cell size measurement, apoptosis detection and mitochondrial membrane potential measurement. The cardiac hypertrophy relative proteins (ANP and BNP), autophagy related factors (LC3II, p62 and Beclin-1), apoptosis related markers (p53, caspase 3, Bax and Bcl-2) and the PI₃K/AKT/mTOR pathway expressions were all measured by Western blot.

RESULTS

YQFM decreased the arrhythmia occurrence and improved cardiac function in cardiac hypertrophy rats. YQFM also reduced the H9c2 cardiomyocyte size and alleviated the cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by AngII. In addition, YQFM inhibited cell apoptosis by increasing Bcl-2/Bax ratio and decreasing caspase 3 and p53 expressions in vitro and vivo. Meanwhile, YQFM regulated the autophagy pathway by down-regulating of LC3II and Beclin-1 expressions, as well as up-regulating of p62 expression. Finally, the results showed that YQFM could activate the PI₃K/AKT/mTOR pathway by enhancing the p-AKT, p-PI₃K and p-mTOR expressions.

CONCLUSION

Our results displayed that YQFM attenuated the cardiac hypertrophy by apoptosis inhibition and autophagy regulation via PI₃K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Allicin, an Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Agent, Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment

Allicin (diallylthiosulfinate) is a defense molecule produced by cellular contents of garlic (Allium sativum L.). On tissue damage, the non-proteinogenic amino acid alliin (S-allylcysteine sulfoxide) is converted to allicin in an enzyme-mediated process catalysed by alliinase. Allicin is hydrophobic in nature, can efficiently cross the cellular membranes and behaves as a reactive sulfur species (RSS) inside the cells. It is physiologically active molecule with the ability to oxidise the thiol groups of glutathione and between cysteine residues in proteins. Allicin has shown anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant properties and also serves as an efficient therapeutic agent against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, the present review describes allicin as an antioxidant, and neuroprotective molecule that can ameliorate the cognitive abilities in case of neurodegenerative and neuropsychological disorders. As an antioxidant, allicin fights the reactive oxygen species (ROS) by downregulation of NOX (NADPH oxidizing) enzymes, it can directly interact to reduce the cellular levels of different types of ROS produced by a variety of peroxidases. Most of the neuroprotective actions of allicin are mediated via redox-dependent pathways. Allicin inhibits neuroinflammation by suppressing the ROS production, inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, P38 and JNK pathways. As an inhibitor of cholinesterase and (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) it can be applied to manage the Alzheimer's disease, helps to maintain the balance of neurotransmitters in case of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactive syndrome (ADHD). In case of acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) allicin protects neuron damage by regulating inflammation, apoptosis and promoting the expression levels of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2). Metal induced neurodegeneration can also be attenuated and cognitive abilities of patients suffering from neurological diseases can be ameliorates by allicin administration.

Ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates mechanical stress-induced cardiac injury via calcium sensing receptor-related pathway

Background

Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) has been well documented to be effective against various cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Rg1 on mechanical stress-induced cardiac injury and its possible mechanism with a focus on the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) signaling pathway.

Methods

Mechanical stress was implemented on rats through abdominal aortic constriction (AAC) procedure and on cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts by mechanical stretching with Bioflex Collagen I plates. The effects of Rg1 on cell hypertrophy, fibrosis, cardiac function, [Ca²⁺]_i, and the expression of CaSR and calcineurin (CaN) were assayed both on rat and cellular level.

Results

Rg1 alleviated cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and improved cardiac decompensation induced by AAC in rat myocardial tissue and cultured cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts. Importantly, Rg1 treatment inhibited CaSR expression and increase of [Ca²⁺]_i, which similar to the CaSR inhibitor NPS2143. In addition, Rg1 treatment inhibited CaN and TGF-β1 pathways activation. Mechanistic analysis showed that the CaSR agonist GdCl₃ could not further increase the [Ca²⁺]_i and CaN pathway related protein expression induced by mechanical stretching in cultured cardiomyocytes. CsA, an inhibitor of CaN, inhibited cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, [Ca²⁺]_i and CaN signaling but had no effect on CaSR expression.

Conclusion

The activation of CaN pathway and the increase of [Ca²⁺]_i mediated by CaSR are involved in cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, that may be the target of cardioprotection of Rg1 against myocardial injury.

Doxorubicin nanomedicine based on ginsenoside Rg1 with alleviated cardiotoxicity and enhanced antitumor activity

Aim: The authors aimed to develop Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles with decreased cardiotoxicity to expand their application in cancer. Materials & methods: Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles were developed by encapsulating doxorubicin (Dox) in a self-assembled Rg1. The antitumor effect of the nanoparticles was estimated using 4T1 tumor-bearing mice and the protective effect on the heart was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Results: Different from Dox, the Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles induced increased cytotoxicity to tumor cells, which was decreased in cardiomyocytes by the inhibition of apoptosis. The study in vivo revealed that the Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles presented a perfect tumor-targeting ability and improved antitumor effects. Conclusion: Dox@Rg1 nanoparticles could enhance the antitumor effects and decrease the cardiotoxicity of Dox.

Cardiac morphological and functional changes induced by C-type natriuretic peptide are different in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats

OBJECTIVE

Inflammation and fibrosis are key mechanisms in cardiovascular remodeling. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is an endothelium-derived factor with a cardiovascular protective role, although its in-vivo effect on cardiac remodeling linked to hypertension has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of chronic administration of CNP on inflammatory and fibrotic cardiac mechanisms in normotensive Wistar rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

METHODS

Twelve-week-old male SHR and normotensive rats were infused with CNP (0.75 μg/h/100 g) or isotonic saline (NaCl 0.9%) for 14 days (subcutaneous micro-osmotic pumps). Echocardiograms and electrocardiograms were performed, and SBP was measured. After treatment, transforming growth factor-beta 1, Smad proteins, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 and interleukin-6, nitric oxide (NO) system and 2-thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances were evaluated in left ventricle. Histological studies were also performed.

RESULTS

SHR showed lower cardiac output with signs of fibrosis and hypertrophy in left ventricle, higher NO-system activity and more oxidative damage, as well as higher pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic markers than normotensive rats. Chronic CNP treatment-attenuated hypertension and ventricular hypertrophy in SHR, with no changes in normotensive rats. In left ventricle, CNP induced an anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic response, decreasing both pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory cytokines in SHR. In addition, CNP reduced oxidative damage as well as collagen content, and upregulated the NO system in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Chronic CNP treatment appears to attenuate hypertension and associated end-organ damage in the heart by reducing inflammation and fibrosis.

Farrerol ameliorate adjuvant-induced ankle injury via alteration of PPAR-γ signal pathway

This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated mouse macrophages (in vitro) and assessed the protective effect of farrerol on arthritis caused by complete freund adjuvant (CFA) in rats. For the evaluation of the pharmacological effect of farrerol on the activity of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase, pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β, RAW 264.7 cells were used. A 0.1 ml CFA was injected subcutaneously for the induction of arthritis. The paw volume, body weight and arthritic score were estimated at regular intervals. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and antioxidant parameters were also estimated. Farrerol suppressed NO production and COX-catalyzed prostaglandin (PGE₂ ) in RAW 264.7. Farrerol also downregulated the p-p65, p-IκBα expression and upregulated the PPAR-γ expression in RAW 264.7 cells. Treatment of farrerol increased body weight substantially, and reduced paw edema and arthritic score. Farrerol treatment also significantly improved the level of hemoglobin (Hb), count of red blood cells (RBC), and decreased the rate of erythrocyte sedimentation (ESR), white blood cell (WBC) parameters, while the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines inhibited. Together, farrerol also suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Obtained results directed that the farrerol exerted its therapeutic effect against CFA-induced arthritic rats through anti-inflammatory mechanism by regulation of the PPAR-γ. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Increase the arthritis disease worldwide day-by-day. The current research study showed the anti-arthritic effect of farrerol (flavonoid phytoconstituent) of Rhododendron dauricum Linn. In this study, farrerol considerably inhibited the NF-κB to show the anti-arthritic effect. The finding showed the potential effect against acute and chronic inflammation via inhibition of inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. The result suggests the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect of farrerol. On the basis of result, we can say that farrerol can be the beneficial drug to treat the arthritis.

Key Player in Cardiac Hypertrophy, Emphasizing the Role of Toll-Like Receptor 4

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a key pattern recognition receptor, initiates the innate immune response and leads to chronic and acute inflammation. In the past decades, accumulating evidence has implicated TLR4-mediated inflammatory response in regulation of myocardium hypertrophic remodeling, indicating that regulation of the TLR4 signaling pathway may be an effective strategy for managing cardiac hypertrophy's pathophysiology. Given TLR4's significance, it is imperative to review the molecular mechanisms and roles underlying TLR4 signaling in cardiac hypertrophy. Here, we comprehensively review the current knowledge of TLR4-mediated inflammatory response and its interaction ligands and co-receptors, as well as activation of various intracellular signaling. We also describe the associated roles in promoting immune cell infiltration and inflammatory mediator secretion, that ultimately cause cardiac hypertrophy. Finally, we provide examples of some of the most promising drugs and new technologies that have the potential to attenuate TLR4-mediated inflammatory response and prevent or reverse the ominous cardiac hypertrophy outcomes.

Ginsenoside Rg1 improves pathological damages by activating the&nbsp;p21‑p53‑STK pathway in ovary and Bax‑Bcl2 in the uterus in premature ovarian insufficiency mouse models

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the ginsenoside Rg1 on D-galactose (D-gal)-induced mouse models of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and the related mechanisms. C57BL/6 female mice were randomly grouped into the following: i) D-gal [subcutaneously (s.c.) 200 mg/kg/d D-gal for 42 days]; ii) Rg1 [intraperitoneally (i.p.) 20 mg/kg/d Rg1 for 28 days]; iii) D-gal + Rg1 (s.c. 200 mg/kg/d D-gal for 42 days followed by i.p. 20 mg/kg/d Rg1 for 28 days); and iv) saline groups (equivalent volume of saline s.c. and i.p.). Hematoxylin and eosin staining and electron microscopy were used to analyze uterine and ovarian morphology. Expression levels of senescence factors (p21, p53 and serine/threonine kinase), secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-1β] and the activities of oxidation biomarkers [superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px)] were analyzed. The results showed that mice in the Rg1 + D-gal group had significantly higher uterine and ovarian weight compared with those in the D-gal group. Uterus morphology was also improved, based on the comparison between the D-gal group and the Rg1 + D-gal group. In addition, the Rg1 treatment after D-gal administration significantly decreased the expression of senescence-associated factors, enhanced the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes total T-SOD and GSH-px in addition to reducing TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA and IL-6 (based on the comparison between the D-gal group and the Rg1 + D-gal group). In conclusion, the present study suggested that the ginsenoside Rg1 improved pathological damages in the ovary and uterus by increasing anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities whilst reducing the expression of senescence signaling pathways in POI mouse models.

Chemical constituents of Panax ginseng and Panax notoginseng explain why they differ in therapeutic efficacy

Panax ginseng (Meyer) and Panax notoginseng (Burkill), belonging to the family Araliaceae, are used worldwide as medicinal and functional herbs. Numerous publications over the past decades have revealed that both P. notoginseng and P. ginseng contain important bioactive ingredients such as ginsenosides and exert multiple pharmacological effects on nervous system and immune diseases. However, based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, their applications clearly differ as ginseng reinforces vital energy and notoginseng promotes blood circulation. In this article, we review the similarities and differences between ginseng and notoginseng in terms of their chemical composition and pharmacological effects. Their chemical comparisons indicate that ginseng contains more polysaccharides and amino acids, while notoginseng has more saponins, volatile oil, and polyacetylenes. Regarding pharmacological effects, ginseng exhibits better protective effects on cardiovascular disease, nerve disease, cancer, and diabetes mellitus, whereas notoginseng displays a superior protective effect on cerebrovascular disease. The evidence presented in this review facilitates further research and clinical applications of these two herbs, and exploration of the relationship between the chemical components and disease efficacy may be the critical next step.

Panax quinquefolium saponin liposomes prepared by passive drug loading for improving intestinal absorption

Panax quinquefolium saponin (PQS) composed of 45% pseudo-ginsenoside F11 (PF11), is a natural mixture of sterol compounds obtained from the American ginseng plant, having numerous promising benefits for health. However, low solubility and permeability limit the development of PQS as a therapeutic agent for oral administration. In this study, PQS liposomes (PQS-Lips) were prepared by thin layer hydration, an in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP) model was used to verify the improvement of membrane permeability of PQS-Lips. PQS-Lips had a high encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 65%∼70%, a particle size about 100.0 nm, and a zeta potential of -60 mV with regular spherical surface. FTIR and DSC showed the PQS in liposomes were amorphous, indicating that hydrogen bonds formed between one or several hydroxyl groups in PQS and C-O group at the phospholipid polar terminal. In addition, PQS-Lips showed sustained release in vitro than PQS at pH 1.2 and pH 6.8, and PQS-Lips had good stability in simulated gastric and intestinal fluid. Then, the absorption rate (K _a) and effective permeability coefficient (P _eff) of PQS-Lips in the whole small intestine were significantly higher than those in PQS solution (PQS-Sol), which proved that the PQS-Lips could significantly increase the membrane permeability of PQS and promote its absorption in the small intestine. From the experimental results, it could be known that liposome technology could effectively improve the absorption of PQS in the small intestine.

Crocin attenuates isoprenaline-induced myocardial fibrosis by targeting TLR4/NF-κB signaling: connecting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

Crocin is isolated from saffron and has multiple activities. There are many reports on its beneficial effects for cardiovascular disease, but crocin's effects on anti-myocardial fibrosis have not yet been reported. This study investigated crocin's effects and potential mechanisms on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial fibrosis (MF) in mice. Mice were infused intraperitoneally with crocin with concurrent ISO subcutaneous injections over 2 weeks. Electrocardiography, cardiac weight index (CWI), hydroxyproline content, and heart morphology changes were observed. Administration of crocin markedly decreased heart rate, J-point elevation, QRS interval, CWI, and hydroxyproline content in the myocardial tissues, and improved heart pathologic morphology. Versus the control group, the ISO group showed an increase in lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase activities and malondialdehyde content. Meanwhile, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione contents decreased in the ISO group; crocin caused a significant reduction in oxidative stress levels in ISO-induced MF. ISO led to a significant increase in interleukin-1 and -6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in addition to nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) (p65) and toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 expressions. Crocin treatment suppressed these inflammatory cytokine expressions. Moreover, crocin treatment caused a significant decrease in connective tissue growth factor and transforming growth factor-β1 mRNA levels in addition to a decrease in B cell lymphoma-2, Bcl-2-associated X protein, caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3 expressions. Crocin has a protective effect on ISO-induced MF, which may be associated with the TLR4/NF-κB (p65) signal transduction pathway.

Lycium barbarum polysaccharide attenuates cardiac hypertrophy, inhibits calpain-1 expression and inhibits NF-κB activation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Cardiac hypertrophy is one of the key structural changes that occurs in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Previous studies have indicated that the activation of NF-κB by calpain-1, a Ca²⁺-dependent cysteine protease, serves an important role in cardiac hypertrophy. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of 30 and 60 mg/kg Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) treatment, the major active ingredient extracted from Lycium barbarum, on cardiac hypertrophy in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. In addition, the present study examined the possible underlying mechanisms of this effect by assessing calpain-1 expression and the NF-κB pathway. The mRNA expression of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expressions of calpain-1, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) in the heart tissue. The results revealed that compared with non-diabetic rats, diabetic rats exhibited cardiac hypertrophy. Cardiac hypertrophy was defined by the following: Dysfunction of the cardiac hemodynamics, an increase in the ratios of left ventricular weight/body weight and heart weight/body weight and the increased expressions of ANP and BNP, which serve as hypertrophic markers in cardiac tissue. However, all of these changes were attenuated in diabetic rats treated with LBP. In addition, the protein expression of calpain-1 was increased in the heart tissue of diabetic rats compared with that of non-diabetic rats, where it was inhibited by LBP. LBP also decreased the protein expression of certain inflammatory mediators, IL-6, TNF-α, ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and TLR-4 in diabetic heart tissue. Furthermore, LBP treatment reduced the production of reactive oxygen species, upregulated the protein expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and downregulated the protein expression of inducible nitric-oxide synthase. Additionally, LBP increased the protein expression of p65, the subunit of NF-κB and inhibitory protein кB-α in the cytoplasm and reduced p65 expression in the nucleus. In conclusion, LBP improves cardiac hypertrophy, inhibits the expression of calpain-1 and inhibits the activation of NF-κB in diabetic rats.

Allicin attenuates pathological cardiac hypertrophy by inhibiting autophagy via activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK/mTOR signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Cardiac hypertrophy is an adaptive response of the myocardium to pressure or volume overload. Recent evidences indicate that allicin can prevent cardiac hypertrophy. However, it is not clear whether allicin alleviates cardiac hypertrophy by inhibiting autophagy.

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate the effects of allicin on pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy, and further to clarify the related mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

Cardiac hypertrophy was successfully established by abdominal aortic constriction (AAC) in rats, and cardiomyocytes hypertrophy was simulated by angiotensin II (Ang II) in vitro. Hemodynamic parameters were monitored by organism function experiment system in vivo. The changes of cell surface area were observed using HE and immunofluorescence staining in vivoand in vitro, respectively. The expressions of cardiac hypertrophy relative protein (BNP and β-MHC), autophagy marker protein (LC3-II and Beclin-1), Akt, PI3K and ERK were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

Allicin could improve cardiac function, and reduce cardiomyocytes size, and decrease BNP and β-MHC protein expressions. Further results showed that allicin could lower LC3-II and Beclin-1 protein expressions both in vivo and in vitro experiments. And pharmacological inhibitor of mTOR, rapamycin could antagonize the effects of allicin on Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy and autophagy. Simultaneously, allicin could promote the expressions of p-Akt, p-PI3K and p-ERK protein.

CONCLUSION

These findings reveal a novel mechanism of allicin attenuating cardiac hypertrophy which allicin could inhibit excessive autophagy via activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK/mTOR signaling pathways.

Ginsenoside Rg1 Prevents Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity through the Inhibition of Autophagy and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Mice

Ginsenoside Rg1, a saponin that is a primary component of ginseng, has been demonstrated to protect hearts from diverse cardiovascular diseases with regulating multiple cellular signal pathways. In the present study, we investigated the protective role of ginsenoside Rg1 on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and its effects on endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy. After pre-treatment with ginsenoside Rg1 (50 mg/kg i.g.) for 7 days, male C57BL/6J mice were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of doxorubicin (6 mg/kg) every 3 days for four injections. Echocardiographic and pathological findings showed that ginsenoside Rg1 could significantly reduce the cardiotoxicity induced by doxorubicin. Ginsenoside Rg1 significantly inhibited doxorubicin-induced formation of autophagosome. At the same time, ginsenoside Rg1 decreased the doxorubicin-induced cardiac microtubule-associated protein-light chain 3 and autophagy related 5 expression. Ginsenoside Rg1 can reduce endoplasmic reticulum dilation caused by doxorubicin. Compared with the doxorubicin group, the expression of cleaved activating transcription factor 6 and inositol-requiring enzyme 1 decreased in group ginsenoside Rg1. Treatment with ginsenoside Rg1 reduces the expression of TIF1 and increases the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78. In the ginsenoside Rg1 group, the expression of p-P70S6K, c-Jun N-terminal kinases 1 and Beclin1 declined. These results indicate that ginsenoside Rg1 may improve doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy.

Dimethyl fumarate interferes with MyD88-dependent toll-like receptor signalling pathway in isoproterenol-induced cardiac hypertrophy model

Objectives

To investigate the effect of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on Toll-like receptor (TLR) signalling pathway in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats.

Methods

Sixty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into three groups. group I: rats received the vehicles only; group II: rats were treated with ISO (5 mg/kg per day S.C.) to induce cardiac hypertrophy for 7 days; and group III: rats were given DMF (25 mg/kg per 12 h P.O.) for 28 days, and at the last 7 days, they were treated with ISO (5 mg/kg per day S.C.).

Key findings

Pretreatment with DMF decreased heart-to-body weight ratio, heart rate and blood pressure and improved the electrocardiographic patterns when compared with ISO group. DMF exhibited cardioprotective effect as evidenced by the reduction in cardiac troponin I, creatine kinase-MB and atrial natriuretic peptide levels. Moreover, DMF alleviated the changed oxidative stress and inflammatory biochemical markers through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. DMF interfered with TLR signalling pathway, evidenced by decreased levels of the TLR adaptor protein MyD88 and p-ERK1/2 and increased p-Akt level.

Conclusions

Dimethyl fumarate exerted cardioprotective effect against ISO-induced cardiac hypertrophy. This effect is suggested to be through interfering with TLR signalling pathway.

Ginsenoside Rg1 augments oxidative metabolism and anabolic response of skeletal muscle in mice

Background

The ginsenoside Rg1 has been shown to exert various pharmacological activities with health benefits. Previously, we have reported that Rg1 promoted myogenic differentiation and myotube growth in C2C12 myoblasts. In this study, the in vivo effect of Rg1 on fiber-type composition and oxidative metabolism in skeletal muscle was examined.

Methods

To examine the effect of Rg1 on skeletal muscle, 3-month-old mice were treated with Rg1 for 5 weeks. To assess muscle strength, grip strength tests were performed, and the lower hind limb muscles were harvested, followed by various detailed analysis, such as histological staining, immunoblotting, immunostaining, and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. In addition, to verify the in vivo data, primary myoblasts isolated from mice were treated with Rg1, and the Rg1 effect on myotube growth was examined by immunoblotting and immunostaining analysis.

Results

Rg1 treatment increased the expression of myosin heavy chain isoforms characteristic for both oxidative and glycolytic muscle fibers; increased myofiber sizes were accompanied by enhanced muscle strength. Rg1 treatment also enhanced oxidative muscle metabolism with elevated oxidative phosphorylation proteins. Furthermore, Rg1-treated muscles exhibited increased levels of anabolic S6 kinase signaling.

Conclusion

Rg1 improves muscle functionality via enhancing muscle gene expression and oxidative muscle metabolism in mice.

Calpain inhibitor I attenuates atherosclerosis and inflammation in atherosclerotic rats through eNOS/NO/NF-κB pathway

We previously reported that calpain, the Ca2+-sensitive cysteine protease, gets involved in atherogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of calpain inhibitor I (CAI, 5 mg/kg per day) with or without NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester (l-NAME) (100 mg/kg per day), the inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), on atherosclerosis and inflammation in a rat model induced by high-cholesterol diet (HCD). The results demonstrated HCD increased protein expression of calpain-1 but not calpain-2 in aortic tissue. In addition, CAI reduced the thickness of atherosclerotic intima compared with HCD group, which was weakened by the l-NAME combination. CAI with or without l-NAME decreased the activity of calpain in the aorta. Also, CAI decreased the expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intracellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the aorta at the levels of both mRNA and protein. Furthermore, CAI increased the activity and the protein expression of endothelial NOS (eNOS) accompanied by increased content of NO and downregulated the protein expression of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) of the nucleus in the aorta. However, the abovementioned effects were at least partly cancelled by l-NAME except for the protein expression of eNOS. The results suggested that CAI attenuated atherosclerosis and inflammation through eNOS/NO/NF-κB pathway.

Stachydrine ameliorates isoproterenol-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress through inhibiting NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways in rats

Cardiac hypertrophy (CH), as one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the world, has become an independent and predictive risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events. However, progress in treatment remains sluggish in recent years. Therefore, compounds derived from non-toxic nature plants are urgently needed. Stachydrine (STA), which is isolated from Leonurus, has various activities, including resistance to cardiovascular disease, but little is known about its effect on CH or the mechanisms. We herein investigated the effect of STA on isoproterenol-induced CH and the underlying mechanisms. Treatment with STA significantly increased the ratios of heart weight/body weight, left ventricle weight/body weight and the cross-sectional areas of cardiomyocytes. In addition, STA significantly decreased the mRNA levels of atrial natriuretic peptide, B-type natriuretic peptide and β-myosin heavy chain. Furthermore, isoproterenol-induced fibrosis in rats receiving STA was significant attenuated, as evidenced by decreased ratio of fibrotic area/total area and decreased mRNA levels of collagens I and III. Given down-regulation of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IFN-1β, treatment with STA significantly reversed the expressions of pro-inflammatory induced by isoproterenol. Moreover, STA attenuated the oxidative stress level in serum of isoproterenol-induced CH rats, as shown by increased activity of superoxide dismutase and decreased malondialdehyde level. STA inhibited the expressions of phosphorylated IκBα, NF-κB p65, JAK2 and STAT3 in vivo. Thus, both NF-κB and JAK/STAT signalings played essential roles in mediating the anti-CH effect of STA. Collectively, STA has a potent protective effect on isoproterenol-induced CH, with therapeutic implication for CH.