Oxidative stress and liver disease

Product of Traditional Chinese Medicine Longgui Yangxinwan Protects the Human Body from Altitude Sickness Damage by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Preventing Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Yu Liu, Zhengyang Zhang, Yongting Luo, Peng An, Jingyi Qi, Xu Zhang, Shuaishuai Zhou, Yongzhi Li, Chong Xu, Junjie Luo, and Jiaping Wang. Product of traditional Chinese medicine longgui yangxinwan protects the human body from altitude sickness damage by reducing oxidative stress and preventing mitochondrial dysfunction. High Alt Med Biol. 26:20-29, 2025. Background: Plateau reaction, caused by high-altitude exposure, results in symptoms like headaches, dyspnea, palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and insomnia due to reduced oxygen levels. Mitochondria are crucial for high-altitude acclimatization as they regulate oxygen metabolism and cellular energy, reducing oxidative stress and maintaining bodily functions. Methods: The study participants were randomly divided into placebo group, Rhodiola group and longgui yangxinwan (Original name: taikong yangxinwan) group, with 20 people in each group. Three groups of subjects were sampled at three time points (PI: pre-intervention; P-D1: high-altitude day 1; P-D7: high-altitude day 7), and blood pressure, blood oxygen, heart rate, hemoglobin, and red blood cell count were measured. The ATP content, mitochondrial DNA copy number, expression of mitochondria-related genes, reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and mitochondrial morphology were measured in blood at each time point. Results: Our study results demonstrate that longgui yangxinwan keeps the selected human physiological indicators stable and prevents mitochondrial dysfunction in the high altitude. Mechanically, longgui yangxinwan decreases the level of ROS in human serum, whereas increases the activity of the antioxidant enzyme GSH-PX. At high-altitude day 1 (P-D1) and high-altitude day 7 (P-D7), ROS in the placebo group were 1.5 and 2.2-fold higher than those of the longgui yangxinwan group, respectively. In addition, longgui yangxinwan enhances ATP production capacity, restores the levels of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, and effectively maintains mitochondrial morphology and integrity. At P-D1 and P-D7, the ATP levels in the longgui yangxinwan group were 19-fold and 26-fold higher than those in the placebo group, respectively. Conclusions: Our study highlights longgui yangxinwan as a potential drug for protecting humans from high-altitude damage by reducing oxidative stress and preventing mitochondrial dysfunction.

Hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) induces oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis, and DNA damage in the liver of largemouth bass by inhibiting the Nrf2-Keap1 signal pathway

Heavy metal pollution poses a significant threat to the growth and health of fish, causing substantial economic losses in aquaculture. This study investigates the toxic effects of Cr6+ on the liver of Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Juvenile Largemouth bass were randomly divided into a control group (CON) and a chromium stress group (Cr6+), and subjected to a 96-h exposure test with Cr6+ at 96-h LC50 concentration. The results showed that in the Cr6+ group, liver cell nuclei were condensed, cells exhibited vacuolation, liver sinusoidal spaces were enlarged, and cell contours were unclear. Compared to the CON group, the Cr6+ group had significantly reduced activities of liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT), with a significant decrease in T-AOC levels and a significant increase in MDA content (p < 0.05). Additionally, the relative mRNA expression levels of CAT, SOD, and GSH-Px were significantly decreased in the Cr6+ group (p < 0.05). The Nrf2-Keap1 Signal Pathway showed a significant increase in the relative mRNA expression of Nrf2 and a significant decrease in the relative mRNA expression of Keap1 in the Cr6+ group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, inflammatory response, apoptosis, and DNA damage were observed in the liver of Largemouth bass: the relative mRNA expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-15 (IL-15), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were significantly increased in the Cr6 + group (p < 0.05); the relative mRNA expression levels of Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Caspase-9, and Bax were significantly increased, while the Bcl-2 was significantly decreased; Tail length, Tail DNA (%), and Olive tail moment of liver cells were significantly increased (p < 0.05). In summary, Cr6+ induces oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis, and DNA damage in the liver of Largemouth bass by inhibiting the Nrf2-Keap1 signal pathway, thus affecting the health of the fish.

Aquaporin five deficiency suppresses fatty acid oxidation and delays liver regeneration through the transcription factor PPAR

After 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx), the metabolic pathways leading to hepatocyte lipid droplet accumulation during liver regeneration remain unclear. Aquaporin 5 (Aqp5) is an aquaporin that facilitates the transport of both water and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In this study, we observed delayed liver regeneration following PHx in Aqp5 knockout (Aqp5-/-) mice. Considering the role of Aqp5 in H2O2 transport, we hypothesized that deficiency in Aqp5 may induce oxidative stress and hepatocyte injury. Through the measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox-related indices, we observed significant alterations in ROS levels as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations in regenerating livers lacking Aqp5 compared to wild-type controls. Oil Red O and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) staining results indicated that Aqp5 deficiency caused lipid accumulation during liver regeneration. The transcriptome sequencing results showed that the PPAR pathway is inhibited during the liver regeneration process in Aqp5 gene-knockout mice. The administration of the WY-14643 agonist, which targets the PPAR pathway, significantly mitigated delayed liver regeneration by enhancing hepatocyte proliferation and reducing lipid accumulation caused by Aqp5 deficiency. Our findings highlight the crucial role of Aqp5 in regulating H2O2 levels and lipid metabolism through the PPAR pathway during liver regeneration.

Metformin alleviates doxorubicin-induced hepatic damage by modulating oxidative stress: a molecular, biochemical, and histopathological approach in a rat model

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most commonly prescribed anti-cancer drugs. However, DOX-induced hepatotoxicity is a dose-limiting side effect. This study aimed to clarify the potential protective effects of metformin on DOX-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The animals were divided into six groups (n = 6 each): Control Group, DOX group, metformin 200 mg/kg group, DOX + metformin 50 mg/kg group, DOX + metformin 100 mg/kg group, and DOX + metformin 200 mg/kg group. Hepatic injury was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (20 mg/kg). The activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in serum were determined. Furthermore, the hepatic histopathological changes were evaluated. To identify the markers of oxidative stress, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in liver tissue were measured. Results showed that DOX provoked a marked elevation in ALT, AST, and ALP serum levels. In addition, oxidative stress was significantly boosted in DOX-treated rats compared to control rats. All these were abolished with the metformin administration. Histological examination also showed that metformin could substantially reduce DOX-induced alterations. The most prominent effect was observed by high-dose metformin.

Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract Improves Growth Performance and Protects Against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress to the Liver and Intestine in Weaned Hyla Rabbits

Three experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on the growth performance of weaned Hyla rabbits and explore its protective effects against oxidative stress in the liver and intestine by establishing a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress model. In Exp.1, ninety-six weaned rabbits were used to evaluate the effects of dietary GSPE level on growth performance, and the results showed that a 400 mg/kg GSPE addition increased the feed conversion ratio and liver coefficient and promoted cholesterol metabolism. Exp.2 was conducted to explore the H2O2 concentration required to establish an oxidative stress model, indicating that the model could be established by an intraperitoneal injection of 10% H2O2 at a dosage of 1 mL/kg body weight. In Exp.3, seventy-two weaned rabbits were used to investigate the protective effects against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in the liver and intestine. Our findings showed that 400 mg/kg GSPE supplementation could alleviate the adverse effects of H2O2 injection on the antioxidant capacity in the liver and intestine as well as liver morphology. Therefore, an addition of 400 mg/kg GSPE could improve growth performance and alleviate H2O2-induced adverse effects on the liver and small intestine by enhancing the antioxidative capacity in weaned Hyla rabbits.

Comparative Study of Lipid Profile for Mice Treated with Cyclophosphamide by HPLC-HRMS and Bioinformatics

Purpose: Immunodeficiency conditions, which are characterized by reduced immune activity that promotes the development of chronic diseases, are needed for efficient monitoring. A promising area of monitoring and early diagnosis of immunodeficiency diseases is the determination of metabolic biomarkers in the blood. Methods: In this work, we identified a set of lipid biomarkers of immunodeficiency states by performing high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS) analysis of blood plasma samples from mice and processing them with bioinformatics approaches. Potential biomarkers were selected through statistical analysis and further validated by MS/MS. Conclusions: As a result, 15 lipids were confirmed and selected as potential biomarkers of immunodeficiency states. The selected biomarkers can be further studied and serve as promising targets for the early diagnosis of immunodeficiency diseases.

Protective effect of oleuropein on the brain tissue in D-Galactose-induced aging in rat model

BACKGROUND

Oleuropein (OLE) has the potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. So, in the present investigation, we explored the protective effect of OLE on brain aging induced by d-galactose (D-Gal) in a rat model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

40 Wister male adult rats were categorized into 5 groups. Group 1 received normal saline; group 2 was given 100 mg/kg of D-Gal intraperitoneally (IP). The rats in groups 3 to 5 were given D-Gal (100 mg/kg, IP) along with different doses of OLE (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg, respectively) orally. All administrations were performed daily for 8 weeks. 24 h after last treatment motor activity and memory impairment were evaluated. Then, the rats were euthanized and brain samples were collected for evaluating the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), protein carbonyl (PC), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta ( IL-1β), as well as Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1) gene expression. The results showed that D-Gal significantly reduced motor activity and memory performance (P < 0.05). It also significantly reduced the GPX, CAT and SOD activities, GSH and BDNF levels as well as SIRT1 and PGC1 expression, and, significantly increased PC, MDA TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the brain tissue (P < 0.05). Administration of OLE restored all of the above parameters close to control group.

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrated that OLE, through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, improved motor activity, memory impairment, and age-related neurological dysfunction.

Unraveling the liver metabolomic profile of ADB-BUTINACA-induced hepatotoxicity

ADB-BUTINACA, as a new psychoactive substance, can induce physical and psychological dependence. However, the systemic biological impact of ADB-BUTINACA on hepatic metabolomics remains uncertain. The metabolic spectrum in rat livers following exposure to three varying doses of ADB-BUTINACA (0.1, 1, and 5 mg/kg·bw) were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry and molecular docking techniques. Non-target metabolomic technology demonstrated that ADB-BUTINACA induced significant changes in 42 metabolites and disturbed 11 metabolic pathways especially the taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, β-alanine metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism, implicates the potential for ADB-BUTINACA to induce not merely cardiac dysfunction but also neurological anomalies. Molecular docking into the hepatotoxic targets of ADB-BUTINACA unveiled its potential for competitive binding with pantetheinase. This interaction may disrupt the coenzyme A (CoA) synthesis pathway, resulting in energy and lipid metabolism imbalances, and ultimately causing hepatotoxic effects. Cellular experiments confirmed reduced HepG2 cell viability and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. These findings align with our metabolomic findings, supporting the hypothesis that ADB-BUTINACA induces hepatotoxicity via oxidative stress, as well as disruptions in energy and lipid metabolism. This work not only broadens the knowledge of ADB-BUTINACA' toxicological profile but also contributes to efforts aimed at diagnosing and preventing ADB-BUTINACA-induced hepatotoxicity.

Enzymes in Addressing Hypoxia for Biomaterials Engineering

Oxygen is essential for normal cellular functions. Hypoxia impacts various cellular processes, such as metabolism, growth, proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, tumorigenesis, microbial infection, and immune response, mediated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Hypoxia contributes to the progression and development of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, kidney diseases, and infections. The potential alleviation of hypoxia has been explored through the enzymatic in situ decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, leading to the generation of oxygen. However, challenges such as limited stability restrict the effectiveness of enzymes such as catalase in biomedical and in vivo applications. To overcome these limitations, targeted delivery of the enzymes has been proposed. This review offers a critical comparison of i) current approaches to enhance the in vivo stability of catalase; and ii) the structure, mechanism of action, and kinetics of catalase and catalase-like nanozymes.

Unrivalled Insight into Possible Biopharmaceutical Application of Justicia vahlii Roth. (Acanthaceae): Chemodiversity, In Vitro Bioactivities, and Computational Analysis

Justicia vahliiRoth. is an important wild medicinal food plant traditionally used for treating inflammation and various common ailments. This study investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant, enzyme inhibition and toxicity profiles of n-hexane (nHEJv) and chloroform (CEJv) extracts of J. vahlii. Moreover, the effect of the extracts was evaluated on CCl4 induced liver injury. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were present in both extracts in significant amount. The UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS profiling of CEJv tentatively identified several important phytocompounds. The CEJv extract was comparatively more active for antioxidant activity and α-amylase inhibition, whereas the nHEJv extract presented higher inhibition potential against urease, tyrosinase, and α-glucosidase enzymes. Similarly, the in-silicostudy of four major compounds, i. e., 1-acetoxypinoresinol, 3-hydroxysebacic acid, nortrachelogenin, and viscidulin-III have shown a good docking score against the clinically significant enzymes. The acute oral toxicity and brine shrimp lethality assaysrevealed the extracts as non-toxic. The CCl4 treated animals showed a geared depletion of various antioxidant enzymes which were significantly reversed with the treatment of the extracts. Overall, the study's findings revealed J. vahliiwith antioxidant mediated hepatoprotective and enzyme inhibition potential and warrant further research on isolation of the bioactive compounds.

Astragaloside IV and cycloastragenol promote liver regeneration through regulation of hepatic oxidative homeostasis and glucose/lipid metabolism

BACKGROUND

The regenerative capacity of the liver is pivotal for mitigating various forms of liver injury and requires the rapid proliferation of hepatocytes. Aquaporin-9 (AQP9) provides vital support for hepatocyte proliferation by preserving hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidative balance and glucose/lipid metabolism equilibrium within hepatocytes. Our previous study demonstrated that Radix Astragali (RA) decoction promotes liver regeneration by upregulating hepatic expression of AQP9, possibly via two major active constituents: astragaloside IV (AS-IV) and cycloastragenol (CAG).

PURPOSE

To verify that upregulated AQP9 expression in hepatocytes maintains liver oxidative balance and glucose/lipid metabolism homeostasis, and is the main pharmacological mechanism by which AS-IV and CAG promote liver regeneration.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

Effects of AS-IV and CAG on liver regeneration were scrutinized using a mouse model of 70 % partial hepatectomy (PHx). AQP9-targeted liver regeneration mediated by AS-IV and CAG was verified using AQP9 gene knockout mice (AQP9-/-). The AQP9 protein expression pattern in hepatocytes was determined using tdTomato-tagged AQP9 transgenic mice (AQP9-RFP). Potential mechanisms of AS-IV and CAG on liver regeneration were studied using real-time quantitative PCR, immunoblotting, staining with hematoxylin and eosin, oil red O, and periodic acid-Schiff, and immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, HyPerRed fluorescence, and biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

AS-IV and CAG promoted substantial liver regeneration and increased hepatic AQP9 expression in wild-type mice (AQP9+/+) following 70 % PHx, but had no discernible benefits in AQP9-/- mice. Both saponin compounds also helped maintain oxidative homeostasis by reducing levels of oxidative stress markers (reactive oxygen species [ROS], H2O2, and malondialdehyde) and elevating levels of ROS scavengers (glutathione and superoxide dismutase) in AQP9+/+ mice post-70 % PHx. This further activated the PI3K-AKT and insulin signaling pathways, thereby fostering liver regeneration. Furthermore, AS-IV and CAG both promoted hepatocyte glycerol uptake, increased gluconeogenesis, facilitated lipolysis, reduced glycolysis, and inhibited glycogen deposition, thus ensuring the energy supply required for liver regeneration.

CONCLUSION

This research is the first to demonstrate AS-IV and CAG as major active ingredients of RA that promote liver regeneration by upregulating hepatocyte AQP9 expression, improving hepatocyte glucose/lipid metabolism, and reducing oxidative stress damage, constituting a crucial pharmacological mechanism underlying the liver-protective effects of RA. The augmentation of hepatocyte AQP9 expression underscores an important aspect of the Qi-tonifying effect of RA. This study establishes AQP9 as an effective target for regulation of liver regeneration and provides a universal strategy for clinical drug intervention aimed at enhancing liver regeneration.

A review of nutritional recommendations for scuba divers

BACKGROUND

Scuba diving is an increasingly popular activity that involves the use of specialized equipment and compressed air to breathe underwater. Scuba divers are subject to the physiological consequences of being immersed in a high-pressure environment, including, but not limited to, increased work of breathing and kinetic energy expenditure, decreased fluid absorption, and alteration of metabolism. Individual response to these environmental stressors may result in a differential risk of decompression sickness, a condition thought to result from excess nitrogen bubbles forming in a diver's tissues. While the mechanisms of decompression sickness are still largely unknown, it has been postulated that this response may further be influenced by the diver's health status. Nutritional intake has direct relevancy to inflammation status and oxidative stress resistance, both of which have been associated with increased decompression stress. While nutritional recommendations have been determined for saturation divers, these recommendations are likely overly robust for recreational divers, considering that the differences in time spent under pressure and the maximum depth could result nonequivalent energetic demands. Specific recommendations for recreational divers remain largely undefined.

METHODS

This narrative review will summarize existing nutritional recommendations and their justification for recreational divers, as well as identify gaps in research regarding connections between nutritional intake and the health and safety of divers.

RESULTS

Following recommendations made by the Institute of Medicine and the Naval Medical Research Institute of Bethesda, recreational divers are advised to consume ~170-210 kJ·kg-1 (40-50 kcal·kg-1) body mass, depending on their workload underwater, in a day consisting of 3 hours' worth of diving above 46 msw. Recommendations for macronutrient distribution for divers are to derive 50% of joules from carbohydrates and less than 30% of joules from fat. Protein consumption is recommended to reach a minimum of 1 g of protein·kg-1 of body mass a day to mitigate loss of appetite while meeting energetic requirements. All divers should take special care to hydrate themselves with an absolute minimum of 500 ml of fluid per hour for any dive longer than 3 hours, with more recent studies finding 0.69 liters of water two hours prior to diving is most effective to minimize bubble loads. While there is evidence that specialized diets may have specific applications in commercial or military diving, they are not advisable for the general recreational diving population considering the often extreme nature of these diets, and the lack of research on their effectiveness on a recreational diving population.

CONCLUSIONS

Established recommendations do not account for changes in temperature, scuba equipment, depth, dive time, work of breathing, breathing gas mix, or individual variation in metabolism. Individual recommendations may be more accurate when accounting for basal metabolic rate and physical activity outside of diving. However, more research is needed to validate these estimates against variation in dive profile and diver demographics.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Irisin Injection in Mimicking the Molecular Responses Induced by Endurance Exercise in Mouse Liver Tissue

Background

Physical activity has been found to improve liver health by reducing oxidative stress (OS), possibly through the protein irisin. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) help regulate the body's response to stress and maintain cellular health. This study aimed to investigate the expression of the HSP70 gene and protein, miR-223a, and serum irisin levels in the liver after 8 weeks of endurance exercise or irisin injection.

Methods

Twenty-one mice were randomly assigned to a control group, an endurance training group, and an irisin injection group. The expression of the HSP70 gene and miR-223a was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), while HSP70 protein levels were measured using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot analysis. The concentration of irisin in the mouse serum was evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

Results

The endurance training and irisin injection groups exhibited a significant increase in the HSP70 gene (405.30% and 816.03%, respectively) and protein expression (173.89% in IHC, 36.76% in Western blot for endurance training; 206.73% in IHC, 59.80% in Western blot for irisin injection) as well as elevated serum irisin levels (49.75% for endurance training and 60.65% for irisin injection) compared with the control group. In contrast, miR-223a expression decreased in both the endurance training (21.37%) and irisin injection (52.80%) groups (P < 0.05 in all cases). Mice in the irisin injection group demonstrated higher levels of the HSP70 gene (81.28%) and protein expression (11.99% in IHC and 16.84% in Western blot) and lower miR-223a levels (39.97%) than those in the endurance training group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The study concludes that irisin administration can replicate the effects of long-term endurance exercise on HSP70 and miR-223a and may have a more significant impact on their production than exercise training alone.

Extracts from Tartary Buckwheat Sprouts Restricts Oxidative Injury Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide in HepG2 by Upregulating the Redox System

Oxidative stress, which results from an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), can cause damage that may contribute to a range of metabolic disorders. Antioxidants are considered to upregulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes, which are crucial for eliminating excess ROS and safeguarding the body against oxidative stress-induced damage. In the present study, the effect of polyphenol extracts from tartary buckwheat sprouts (TBSE) on the redox system of HepG2-cell-induced oxidative injury by hydrogen peroxide were investigated for evaluating the protective effect and mechanism of tartary buckwheat sprouts (TBS). The results revealed that TBSE that had sprouted for a period of 10 days possessed six predominant phenolic compounds, ranked from the most abundant to the least: chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, ferulic acid, and quercetin. TBSE could successfully inhibit H2O2-induced ROS overproduction, restore and balance the mitochondrial membrane potential, while also significantly increasing cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) and the expression of protective enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and GST. More interestingly, treating HepG2 cells with TBSE triggered the translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus, accompanied by a negative feedback mechanism involving Keap1. Therefore, it regulated the downstream production of antioxidant enzymes, including NQO1 and HO-1. Overall, this finding suggested that TBSE could restore the redox state of H2O2-resistant HepG2 cells, indicating TBSE protected cells from H2O2-induced oxidative stress significantly. Beneficial resistance and effects on redox balance were attributed to activation of Nrf2. Present work revealed the potential health benefits of TBS and provided a test basis for developing functional food of TBS.

trans-chalcone ameliorates CCl4-induced acute liver injury by suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Acute liver injury serves as a crucial marker for detecting liver damage due to toxic, viral, metabolic, and autoimmune exposures. Due to the response to adverse external stimuli and various cellular homeostasis, Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), Oxidative stress, and Inflammation have great potential for treating liver injury. Trans-chalcones (TC) is a polyphenolic compound derived from a natural plant with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory abilities. Here, TC was aimed to attenuate liver injury by triggering ER stress, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. A single dose of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) 1 mL/kg was administered intraperitoneally into C57BL6 mice to construct an in vivo NAFLD model, whereas AML12 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to construct an in vitro NAFLD model. The mice used in the experiment were randomly assigned to two groups: a 12-hour set and a 24-hour set. Forty-nine mice were randomly divided into seven groups, the control group (Group I), TC group (Group II) 10 mg/kg TC, negative control group (Group III) CCl4, TC + CCl4 groups (Groups IV-VI), mice were subcutaneously treated with (5, 10, and 20) mg/kg of TC for three consecutive days before the CCl4 injection and the positive control group (Group VII) received 10 mg/kg Silymarin. After the experiment, serum transaminase, liver histological pathology, hepatic expression levels ERS, oxidative stress, and inflammation-related markers were assessed. TC pre-treatment significantly alleviates the expression of ER stress, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis in both in vivo and in vitro models of liver injury. TC treatment significantly reduced serum transaminase levels (ALT and AST), and improved liver histopathological scores. TC administration also led to a reduction in MDA levels and the suppression of ROS generated by CCl4 in hepatic tissue, which contributed to an increase in GSH levels. The protective effect of TC on the liver injury mouse model was achieved by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis. Moreover, TC pre-treatment dramatically decreased the protein levels of ER stress indicators such as CHOP, Bip, Ero-Lα, IRE1α, PERK, Calnexin, and PDI when compared to the CCl4-only treated group. TC exerts hepatoprotective effects against CCl4-induced acute liver injuries in mice by modulating ERS, oxidative stress, and inflammation. These results suggest that TC pre-treatment at a dose of (20 mg/kg BW) was as effective as silymarin (10 mg/kg) in preventing CCl4-induced acute liver injury. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the hepatoprotective effects of TC and to explore its therapeutic potential in clinical trials.

Unraveling the Dual Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Mechanisms of Acteoside: Computational Insights and Experimental Validation

Acteoside (ACT) is one of the primary bioactive ingredients in Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk). Its remarkable efficacy in treating immune-related and inflammatory disorders has garnered significant interest among scientific circles. However, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ACT and its underlying molecular mechanisms require further investigation. In this study, pharmacophore-based reverse docking and molecular dynamics simulations identified potential anti-inflammatory targets in silico. Studies conducted in vitro with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells validated the anti-inflammatory properties of ACT. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays indicated ACT's non-toxic and growth-promoting effects on cells. ACT significantly reduced nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and restored levels of antioxidant enzymes. It also decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines. Western blotting assays indicated that ACT inhibited p38, TNF-α, PI3 K/AKT, and NF-κB signaling pathways. These findings underscore ACT's ability to mitigate acute inflammation in RAW264.7 cells by modulating key signaling pathways and provide the scientific basis for enhancing the medicinal value of ACT and future drug development.

Modulation of keap-1/Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-ĸb/caspase-3 signaling pathways by dihydromyricetin ameliorates sodium valproate-induced liver injury

Nuclear factor erythroid factor 2 (Nrf2) is the key regulatory of the antioxidant response elements. Also, Nrf2 interacts with nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ĸB) to inhibit subsequent inflammatory cascade. Activation of Nrf2 signaling ameliorates drug-induced liver injury. Sodium valproate (SVP) is an anti-epilepsy drug with a hepatotoxic adverse effect that restricts its clinical use. In this study, coadministration of Dihydromyricetin (DHM), a natural flavonoid, with SVP to rats upregulated gene expression of Nrf2 and its downstream gene, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), while suppressed the Nrf2 repressor, Keap-1. Additionally, DHM led to downregulation of proinflammatory factors in liver tissues, including NF-ĸB, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). This was accompanied by a decrease in the proapoptotic protein (cleaved caspase-3) expression level. Furthermore, biochemical and histopathological studies showed that DHM treatment improved liver function and lipid profile while decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, congestion, and hepatocellular damage. According to our knowledge, prior research has not examined the protective effect of DHM on the liver injury induced by SVP. Consequently, this study provides DHM as a promising herbal medication that, when used with SVP, can prevent its induced hepatotoxicity owing to its potential anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

Therapeutic Promises of Ferulic Acid and its Derivatives on Hepatic damage Related with Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: A Review with Mechanisms

Ferulic acid (FA) is a naturally occurring phenolic compound commonly found in the plant Ferula communis. This study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of FA and its derivatives (methyl ferulic acid and trans-ferulic acid) against oxidative stress and inflammation-related hepatotoxicity due to toxicants based on the results of different non-clinical and preclinical tests. For this, data was collected from different reliable electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, etc. The results of this investigation demonstrated that FA and its derivatives have potent hepatoprotective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation-related damage. The findings also revealed that these protective effects are due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the chemical compound. FA and its analogues significantly inhibit free radical generation and hinder the effects of proinflammatory markers and inflammatory enzymes, resulting in diminished cytotoxic and apoptotic hepatocyte death. The compounds also prevent intracellular lipid accumulation and provide protective effects.

Hybrid non-animal modeling: A mechanistic approach to predict chemical hepatotoxicity

Developing mechanistic non-animal testing methods based on the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework must incorporate molecular and cellular key events associated with target toxicity. Using data from an in vitro assay and chemical structures, we aimed to create a hybrid model to predict hepatotoxicants. We first curated a reference dataset of 869 compounds for hepatotoxicity modeling. Then, we profiled them against PubChem for existing in vitro toxicity data. Of the 2560 resulting assays, we selected the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assay, a high-throughput screening (HTS) tool that can test chemical disruptors for mitochondrial function. Machine learning was applied to develop quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models with 2536 compounds tested in the MMP assay for screening new compounds. The MMP assay results, including QSAR model outputs, yielded hepatotoxicity predictions for reference set compounds with a Correct Classification Ratio (CCR) of 0.59. The predictivity improved by including 37 structural alerts (CCR = 0.8). We validated our model by testing 37 reference set compounds in human HepG2 hepatoma cells, and reliably predicting them for hepatotoxicity (CCR = 0.79). This study introduces a novel AOP modeling strategy that combines public HTS data, computational modeling, and experimental testing to predict chemical hepatotoxicity.

Si-Ni-San promotes liver regeneration by maintaining hepatic oxidative equilibrium and glucose/lipid metabolism homeostasis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The efficacy of clinical treatments for various liver diseases is intricately tied to the liver's regenerative capacity. Insufficient or failed liver regeneration is a direct cause of mortality following fulminant hepatic failure and extensive hepatectomy. Si-Ni-San (SNS), a renowned traditional Chinese medicine prescription for harmonizing liver and spleen functions, has shown clinical efficacy in the alleviation of liver injury for thousands of years. However, the precise molecular pharmacological mechanisms underlying its effects remain unclear.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the effects of SNS on liver regeneration and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A mouse model of 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx) was used to analyze the effects of SNS on liver regeneration. Aquaporin-9 knockout mice (AQP9-/-) were used to demonstrate that SNS-mediated enhancement of liver regeneration was AQP9-targeted. A tandem dimer-Tomato-tagged AQP9 transgenic mouse line (AQP9-RFP) was utilized to determine the expression pattern of AQP9 protein in hepatocytes. Immunoblotting, quantitative real-time PCR, staining techniques, and biochemical assays were used to further explore the underlying mechanisms of SNS.

RESULTS

SNS treatment significantly enhanced liver regeneration and increased AQP9 protein expression in hepatocytes of wild-type mice (AQP9+/+) post 70% PHx, but had no significant effects on AQP9-/- mice. Following 70% PHx, SNS helped maintain hepatic oxidative equilibrium by increasing the levels of reactive oxygen species scavengers glutathione and superoxide dismutase and reducing the levels of oxidative stress molecules H2O2 and malondialdehyde in liver tissues, thereby preserving this crucial process for hepatocyte proliferation. Simultaneously, SNS augmented glycerol uptake by hepatocytes, stimulated gluconeogenesis, and maintained glucose/lipid metabolism homeostasis, ensuring the energy supply required for liver regeneration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first evidence that SNS maintains liver oxidative equilibrium and glucose/lipid metabolism homeostasis by upregulating AQP9 expression in hepatocytes, thereby promoting liver regeneration. These findings offer novel insights into the molecular pharmacological mechanisms of SNS in promoting liver regeneration and provide guidance for its clinical application and optimization in liver disease treatment.

Radix Astragali decoction improves liver regeneration by upregulating hepatic expression of aquaporin-9

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic efficacy of liver injuries heavily relies on the liver's remarkable regenerative capacity, necessitating the maintenance of glycose/lipids homeostasis and oxidative eustasis during the recovery process. Astragali Radix, an herbal tonic widely used in China and many other countries, is believed to have many positive effects, including immune stimulation, nourishing, antioxidant, liver protection, diuresis, anti-diabetes, anti-cancer and expectorant. Astragali Radix is widely integrated into hepatoprotective formulas as it is believed to facilitate liver regeneration. Nevertheless, the precise molecular pharmacological mechanisms underlying this hepatoprotective effect remain elusive.

PURPOSE

To investigate the improving effects of Astragali Radix on liver regeneration and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

A mouse model of 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx) was employed to investigate the impact of Radix Astragali decoction (HQD) on liver regeneration. HQD was orally administered for 7 days before the PHx procedure and throughout the experiment. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was used as a positive control for liver regeneration. Liver regeneration was assessed by evaluating the liver-to-body weight ratio (LW/BW) and the expression of representative cell proliferation marker proteins. Oxidative stress and glucose metabolism were analyzed using biochemical assays, Western blotting, dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence, and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining methods. To understand the role of AQP9 as a potential molecular target of HQD in promoting liver regeneration, td-Tomato-tagged AQP9 transgenic mice (AQP9-RFP) were employed to determine the expression pattern of AQP9 protein. AQP9 knockout mice (AQP9-/-) were used to assess the specific targeting of AQP9 in the promotion of liver regeneration by HQD.

RESULTS

HQD significantly upregulated hepatic AQP9 expression, alleviated liver injury and promoted liver regeneration in wild-type (AQP9+/+) mice after 70% PHx. However, the beneficial impact of HQD on liver regeneration was absent in AQP9 gene knockout (AQP9-/-) mice. Moreover, HQD facilitated the uptake of glycerol by hepatocytes, enhanced gluconeogenesis, and concurrently reduced H2O2 content and oxidative stress levels in AQP9+/+ but not AQP9-/- mouse livers. Additionally, main active substance of Radix Astragali, astragaloside IV (AS-IV) and cycloastragenol (CAG), demonstrated substantial upregulation of AQP9 expression and promoted liver regeneration in AQP9+/+ but not AQP9-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to demonstrate that Radix Astragali and its main active constituents (AS-IV and CAG) improve liver regeneration by upregulating the expression of AQP9 in hepatocytes to increase gluconeogenesis and reduce oxidative stress. The study revealed novel molecular pharmacological mechanisms of Radix Astragali and provided a promising therapeutic target of liver diseases.

Tryptophan alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury and inflammation by modulating necroptosis and pyroptosis signaling pathways in piglets

The liver plays crucial roles in material metabolism and immune response. Bacterial endotoxin can cause various liver diseases, thereby causing significant economic losses to pig industry. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid in piglets. However, whether tryptophan can alleviate liver injury and inflammation by regulating necroptosis and pyroptosis has not been clarified. This study aimed to investigate whether dietary tryptophan can alleviate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury in weaned piglets. 18 weaned piglets were randomly distributed to three treatments, each with 6 replicates: (1) control; (2) LPS-challenged control; (3) LPS + 0.2% tryptophan. After feeding with control or 0.2% tryptophan-supplemented diets for 35 d, pigs were intraperitoneally injected with saline or LPS (100 mg/kg body weight). At 4 h post-injection, blood samples and liver were collected. Results indicated that tryptophan reduced alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, decreased the mRNA expression and protein expression of 70-kDa heat shock proteins. Moreover, tryptophan increased the mRNA expression and protein expression of claudin-1, occludin and zonula occludens and decreased hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde contents, and increased catalase, glutathione peroxidase and total superoxide dismutase activities and proinflammatory cytokine levels in the liver. Meanwhile, tryptophan inhibited pyroptosis-related and necroptosis-related protein expression in liver. Collectively, tryptophan could relieve liver damage, increased the antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation by inhibiting pyroptosis and necroptosis signaling pathways.

Liver Oxidative Status, Serum Lipids Levels after Bariatric Surgery and High-Fat, High-Sugar Diet in Animal Model of Induced Obesity

Nutritional status is a major determinant of hepatocyte injuries associated with changed metabolism and oxidative stress. This study aimed to determine the relations between oxidative stress, bariatric surgery, and a high-fat/high-sugar (HFS) diet in a diet-induced obesity rat model. Male rats were maintained on a control diet (CD) or high-fat/high-sugar diet (HFS) inducing obesity. After 8 weeks, the animals underwent SHAM (n = 14) or DJOS (n = 14) surgery and the diet was either changed or unchanged. Eight weeks after the surgeries, the activity of superoxide dismutase isoforms (total SOD, MnSOD, and CuZnSOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and lutathione S-transferase, as well as the thiol groups (-SH) concentration, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS) levels, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration liver tissue were assessed. The total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations were measured in the serum. The total SOD and GPX activities were higher in the SHAM-operated rats than in the DJOS-operated rats. The MnSOD activity was higher in the HFS/HFS than the CD/CD groups. Higher CuZnSOD, GST, GR activities, -SH, and MDA concentrations in the liver, and the triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations in the serum were observed in the SHAM-operated rats than in the DJOS-operated rats. The CAT activity was significantly higher in the HFS-fed rats. Lower TAC and higher TOS values were observed in the SHAM-operated rats. Unhealthy habits after bariatric surgery may be responsible for treatment failure and establishing an obesity condition with increased oxidative stress.

Essential and non-essential elements in tuna and billfish around the world: Distribution patterns and influencing factors

Tuna and billfish are widely distributed in oceans worldwide. Their survival is relied on a decent share of essential and non-essential elements. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of essential and non-essential elements in livers of tuna and billfish collected from global oceans. The individual element consistently shown similar orders of magnitude in both tuna and billfish, with essential elements generally being 1-3 orders of magnitude higher than non-essential elements. Various physicochemical properties and behaviors contributed to four distinct clusters of these elements. Also, element distribution pattern indicated the presence of four sample groups based on regions and categories. Nine elements served as characteristic indicators. Among them, fish category was the most important influencing factor. Hg, Fe, Tl, Co, and Se were influenced by body size, trophic level, and feeding habits. Ni was influenced by sampling regions, while Mg, Mn and As were influenced by body size and local primary production.

Gene network based analysis identifies a coexpression module involved in regulating plasma lipids with high-fat diet response

Plasma lipids are modulated by gene variants and many environmental factors, including diet-associated weight gain. However, understanding how these factors jointly interact to influence molecular networks that regulate plasma lipid levels is limited. Here, we took advantage of the BXD recombinant inbred family of mice to query weight gain as an environmental stressor on plasma lipids. Coexpression networks were examined in both nonobese and obese livers, and a network was identified that specifically responded to the obesogenic diet. This obesity-associated module was significantly associated with plasma lipid levels and enriched with genes known to have functions related to inflammation and lipid homeostasis. We identified key drivers of the module, including Cidec, Cidea, Pparg, Cd36, and Apoa4. The Pparg emerged as a potential master regulator of the module as it can directly target 19 of the top 30 hub genes. Importantly, activation of this module is causally linked to lipid metabolism in humans, as illustrated by correlation analysis and inverse-variance weighed Mendelian randomization. Our findings provide novel insights into gene-by-environment interactions for plasma lipid metabolism that may ultimately contribute to new biomarkers, better diagnostics, and improved approaches to prevent or treat dyslipidemia in patients.

Effect of Liver Fibrosis on Oral and Gut Microbiota in the Japanese General Population Determined by Evaluating the FibroScan-Aspartate Aminotransferase Score

The association between liver fibrosis and oral or gut microbiota has been studied before. However, epidemiological studies in the general population are limited owing to the difficulty of noninvasive liver-fibrosis assessment. FibroScan-asparate aminotransferase (FAST) scores can be used to accurately and non-invasively evaluate liver fibrosis. This study aimed to determine the association between liver fibrosis and oral or gut microbiota using the FAST score in the general population. After propensity score matching of 1059 participants based on sex, age, body mass index, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and triglyceride levels, 125 (non-liver-fibrosis group, 100; liver fibrosis group, 25) were included. The diversity of gut microbiota differed significantly between the two groups; however, no significant differences were noted in their oral microbiota. The liver fibrosis group showed an increase in the relative abundance of Fusobacteria strains and a decrease in the relative abundance of Faecalibacterium, with the presence of Fusicatenibacter in the gut microbiota. Feacalibacterium was not identified as an independent factor of liver fibrosis in adjusting the fatty liver index. In the general population, gut microbiota may be more involved in liver fibrosis than oral microbiota.

Solarplast®-An Enzymatically Treated Spinach Extract

In the modern world we are constantly bombarded by environmental and natural stimuli that can result in oxidative stress. Antioxidant molecules and enzymes help the human body scavenge reactive oxygen species and prevent oxidative damage. Most organisms possess intrinsic antioxidant activity, but also benefit from the consumption of antioxidants from their diet. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach are a well-researched rich source of dietary antioxidant molecules. However, plant cell walls are difficult to digest for many individuals and the bio-accessibility of nutrients and antioxidants from these sources can be limited by the degree of digestion and assimilation. Through a specific enzymatic process, Solarplast^® contains organic spinach protoplasts without the cell wall, which may facilitate higher yield and efficacy of beneficial antioxidant molecules. In this study, analytical techniques coupled to in vitro bioassays were used to determine the potential antioxidant activity of Solarplast^® and determine its antioxidant enzymatic capabilities. Solarplast^® demonstrated superior antioxidant activity when compared to frozen spinach leaves in TOC, FRAP and TEAC antioxidant assays. Several antioxidant enzymes were also increased in Solarplast^®, when compared to frozen spinach. As a functional readout, Solarplast^® attenuated hydrogen peroxide-, ethanol- and acetaminophen-induced increases in oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in both intestinal (HT-29) and liver (HepG2) cell lines. These findings suggest that Solarplast^® may represent a non-GMO, plant-based food supplement to help reduce oxidative stress in the human body.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil alleviates testis failure induced by Etoposide in male rats

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is a shrub used to treat hepatic, intestinal, renal, respiratory, and reproductive failures. Etoposide a plant-based compound derived from Podophyllum pelltatum, has been used for human malignancies treatment. However, it induces testis, and hepatic failures. In the present study, impact of rosemary essential oil against testis failure, lipid parameters, and hepatic enzymes in male rats has been studied. Forty male Wistar albino rats were grouped in a completely randomized design with Etoposide injection (ETO), rosemary supplementation (ROS), with Etoposide injection and rosemary supplement (ETO+ROS), and control rats with no Etoposide injection and no rosemary (CON). The experiment lasted for seven consecutive weeks including one week as acclimatization time. At the end of the experiment, rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, and blood samples were analyzed for serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), total Protein (TP), glucose (GLU) and testosterone. The left testis was harvested for histological examination. Results showed that rats with Etoposide injection had higher ALT, AST, and ALP the control rats. No significant difference was found among treatments in terms of glucose concentration in blood. Rosemary supplemntaion decreased cholesterol and TG concentration and increased HDL concentration in male rats. Furthermore, administration of rosemary essential oil increased blood testosterone but decreased ALT and AST. The epithelial height of seminiferous tubules was decreased significantly in ET as compared with CON. Rosemary essential oil lessened the adverse effect of Etopside on epithelial height in rat testis as it is shown in ET+ROS. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of rosemary essential oil alleviated liver toxicity and functional testis damage induced by Etopside.

Genetic variants of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant reaction element pathway on the risk of antituberculosis drug-induced liver injury: a systematic review

Aim: To evaluate the effects of genetic variants in the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant reaction element signaling pathway on antituberculosis drug-induced liver injury (AT-DILI) susceptibility. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases were searched from inception to April 2022. Results: Seven case-control studies with 4676 patients were included. Six genes with 35 SNPs in the pathway have been reported. Among 17 SNPs reported in two or more studies, the meta-analysis indicated that only one SNP (rs3735656 in MAFK) was significantly associated with a decreased risk for AT-DILI under the dominant model (odds ratio: 0.636; 95% CI: 0.519-0.780; p < 0.001). Conclusion: SNP rs3735656 in the MAFK gene was significantly associated with the risk of AT-DILI.

Evaluation of the Possible Protective Role of Nobiletin against Arsenic-Induced Liver Damage in Male Albino Rats

Arsenic (As) is a toxic contaminant present in organic and inorganic forms in the environment. Nobiletin (NOB) is a polymethoxy flavone that has recently gained substantial consideration due to its curative impacts. The present experiment was conducted to assess the hepatoprotective efficiency of NOB on As-generated hepatotoxicity. Twenty-four adult rats were equally distributed into four groups and designated as control, As (50 mg/kg)-treated, As + NOB (50 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg, respectively), and NOB (25 mg/kg)-treated groups. After 30 days, experimental animals were decapitated, then blood and tissue samples were collected for further analysis. The group treated with As showed a significant decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GSR), and total antioxidant status (TAS), and a substantial increase in the accumulation of As in liver tissues, levels of total oxidant status (TOS), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS). Significant increases in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were observed in As-treated rats. Moreover, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, interleukin (IL)-6, and cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 activity, as well as the levels of pro-apoptotic markers (Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9) were increased on exposure to As. In contrast, the anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) level was significantly decreased. As administration showed a significant disturbance in hepatic tissue histology. However, cotreatment of NOB with As considerably increased the antioxidant enzyme activity, with a noteworthy reduction in the deposition of As in hepatic tissues, TBARS, and H₂O₂ levels. NOB-administrated rats showed considerable recovery in terms of inflammation, apoptosis, and histological damage. Hence, NOB can be considered a useful curative compound due to its medicinal properties against As-prompted hepatotoxicity.

Liver protection and hemostatic effects of medicinal plant Arnebia euchroma (Royle) I.M.Johnst extract in a rat model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Arnebia euchroma (Royle) I.M.Johnst. (AE) is a Chinese medicinal herb that is traditionally used to treat various circulatory diseases. It exhibits certain effects, such as the promotion of blood circulation and cooling, rash clearance, and detoxification.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to explore the hepatoprotective and hemostatic effects of the ethyl acetate extract of AE in rats with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats were treated via oral gavage with different doses of the ethyl acetate extract of AE (3.5, 7, or 14 g kg^-1·day^-1) for 14 consecutive days, following which hemostatic and liver function tests were conducted. For the hemostatic tests, the platelet count, blood platelet aggregation, blood platelet adhesion to fibrinogen, platelet factor 4 (PF-4) secretion from blood platelets, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), thrombin time (TT), and fibrinogen levels were measured at the end of the treatment period. For the liver function tests, 0.25 mL/200 g (1.25 mL kg^-1·day^-1) of olive oil was injected into the abdominal cavity of the control rats, whereas 15% CCl₄ plus olive oil (prescription: 7.5 mL CCl₄ + 42.5 olive oil) was injected into that of the treated rats at 1 h after extract administration on day 6, 13, and 20. Additionally, food and water were withheld from all the animals. On the following day, the rats were anesthetized and their albumin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels among the groups were determined using a one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

The platelet count and blood platelet aggregation, blood platelet adhesion to fibrinogen and PF-4 secretion levels were significantly increased in the (3.5 g kg^-1 day^-1) AE group as compared to those in the control group (all p < 0.001; for the 7 and 14 g kg^-1 day^-1 AE groups, all p > 0.05, respectively). Although the PT and aPTT were not affected by the AE extract (all p > 0.05), the TT was reduced and the FIB levels were significantly increased in all AE groups (p < 0.05). Liver function tests showed that CCl₄ caused significant liver damage, thereby decreasing the albumin, SOD, CAT, GSH, GST, GR, and GPx levels, while increasing the AST, ALT, ALP, SGOT, SGPT, GGT, LDH, ROS, and MDA levels (all p < 0.001). By contrast, treatment with the different doses of AE extract reversed the CCl₄ effects on all these parameters. Compared with the levels in the CCl₄ group, the GSH and GR levels in the three AE groups (3.5, 7, and 14 g kg^-1·day^-1) were significantly higher (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively), whereas the differences in the other parameters for these three groups were all at the significance levels of p < 0.05, p < 0.05, and p < 0.01, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

AE extracts administered orally exhibited hepatoprotective activity by affecting platelet production and blood coagulation and ameliorating liver function-damaging modifications. Specifically, a dosage of 3.5 g kg^-1·day^-1 resulted in the most optimal effects.

Nanodrug delivery systems for metabolic chronic liver diseases: advances and perspectives

Nanomedicines are revolutionizing healthcare as recently demonstrated by the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna COVID-2019 vaccines, with billions of doses administered worldwide in a safe manner. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common noncommunicable chronic liver disease, posing a major growing challenge to global public health. However, due to unmet diagnostic and therapeutic needs, there is great interest in the development of novel translational approaches. Nanoparticle-based approaches offer novel opportunities for efficient and specific drug delivery to liver cells, as a step toward precision medicines. In this review, the authors highlight recent advances in nanomedicines for the generation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and related liver diseases.

The protective effect of Ganoderma atrum polysaccharide on intestinal barrier function damage induced by acrylamide in mice through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB based on the iTRAQ analysis

The potential mechanism for the protective effect of Ganoderma atrum (G. atrum) polysaccharide (PSG-1) on acrylamide (AA) induced intestinal damage in mice was explored. Results showed that PSG-1 pretreatment prevented AA-induced injury by decreasing intestinal permeability and serum D-lactate acid (D-Lac) levels and increasing the number of small intestinal goblet cells and IgA secreting cells. In addition, PSG-1 pretreatment effectively reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) level and raised superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) activities in the intestine. Furthermore, PSG-1 administration decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory factors including IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, while the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 was elevated. Meanwhile, PSG-1 could increase the performance of tight junction (TJ) proteins such as Occludin, Claudin-1 and ZO-1. Moreover, according to the isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) and Western blot results, PSG-1 could reduce AA-induced intestinal injury through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. Overall, the present study suggested that PSG-1 protected intestinal permeability and barrier function in mice via reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and effectively prevented AA-induced intestinal injury in mice.

The Relationship between Prohibitin 1 Expression, Hepatotoxicity Induced by Acetaminophen, and Hepatoprotection by S-Adenosylmethionine in AML12 Cells

Prohibitin 1 (Phb1) is a pleiotropic protein, located mainly in the mitochondrial inner membrane and involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and the stabilization of mitochondrial protein. Acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter analgesics worldwide. However, at high dose, the accumulation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) can lead to APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. In this study, we sought to understand the regulation of mRNA expression in relation to APAP and GSH metabolism by Phb1 in normal mouse AML12 hepatocytes. We used two different Phb1 silencing levels: high-efficiency (HE, >90%) and low-efficiency (LE, 50-60%). In addition, the siRNA-transfected cells were further pretreated with 0.5 mM of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) for 24 h before treatment with APAP at different doses (1-2 mM) for 24 h. The expression of APAP metabolism-related and antioxidant genes such as Cyp2e1 and Ugt1a1 were increased during SAMe pretreatment. Moreover, SAMe increased intracellular GSH concentration and it was maintained after APAP treatment. To sum up, Phb1 silencing and APAP treatment impaired the metabolism of APAP in hepatocytes, and SAMe exerted a protective effect against hepatotoxicity by upregulating antioxidant genes.

Integrated Microbiome and Metabolome Analysis Reveals Correlations Between Gut Microbiota Components and Metabolic Profiles in Mice with Methotrexate-Induced Hepatoxicity

Purpose

We designed this study to investigate the potential correlations between gut microbiota compositions and hepatic metabolomic disorders in mice with methotrexate (MTX)-induced hepatoxicity.

Methods

We used MTX to induce hepatoxicity in healthy Kunming mice, and we determined plasma ALT and AST levels and assessed the liver tissue histopathology. We applied an integrated gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing approach to evaluate the effects of MTX on the gut microbiota and hepatic metabolic profiles of mice. We uncovered correlations between the gut microbiota and hepatic metabolomic profiles by calculating the Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results

MTX caused ALT and AST level elevations and hepatoxicity in our mouse model. MTX disrupted amino acid metabolic pathways (including biosyntheses of valine, leucine, and isoleucine; and arginine; and, metabolism of alanine, aspartate, and glutamate; histidine; beta-alanine; and glycine, serine, and threonine); biosyntheses of aminoacyl-tRNA; and pantothenate, and CoA; and, metabolic pathways of energy, glutathione, and porphyrin; and chlorophyll. In addition, MTX increased the abundances of Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Collinsella, Streptococcus, and Aerococcus, but decreased the amounts of Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae, norank_f_Lachnospiraceae, A2, Eubacterium_xylanophilum_group, Phascolarctobacterium, Bifidobacterium, and Faecalibaculum. Our correlation analyses showed that different flora abundance changes including those of Phascolarctobacterium, Faecalibaculum, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, and Collinsella were associated with liver injury.

Conclusion

We present evidence supporting the notion that MTX causes hepatoxicity by altering the gut microbiota and hepatic metabolite profiles, our findings provide new venues for the management of MTX-induced hepatoxicity.

Assessing the hepatotoxicity of PFOA, PFOS, and 6:2 Cl-PFESA in black-spotted frogs (Rana nigromaculata) and elucidating potential association with gut microbiota

Pollution caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) has become a major global concern. The association between PFAS-induced hepatotoxicity and gut microbiota in amphibians, particularly at environmentally relevant concentrations, remains elusive. Herein we exposed male black-spotted frogs (Rana nigromaculata) to 1 and 10 μg/L waterborne perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA) for 21 days; subsequently, liver histopathological, oxidative stress, molecular docking, gene/protein expression, and gut microbiome analyses were conducted. PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFESA exposure enhanced serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, and markedly increased hepatic area of vacuoles and inflammatory cell infiltration, while PFOA exposure increased serum alanine aminotransferase but not aspartate aminotransferase activities and affected hepatic area of vacuoles and inflammatory cell infiltration to a lesser extent. All three PFASs elevated catalase, glutathione S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase activities and glutathione and malondialdehyde contents in the liver, suggesting the induction of oxidative stress. Further, PFASs could bind to mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38, ERK, and JNK), upregulating not only their expression but also the expression of downstream oxidative stress-related genes and that of P-p38, P-ERK, and Nrf2 proteins. In addition, PFAS exposure significantly increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Delftia and decreased that of Firmicutes and Dietzia, Mycoplasma, and Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum in the order of PFOS ≈ 6:2 Cl-PFESA > PFOA. Altogether, it appears that PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFESA are more toxic than PFOA. Finally, microbiota function prediction, microbiota co-occurrence network, and correlation analysis between gut microbiota and liver indices suggested that PFAS-induced hepatotoxicity was associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Our data provide new insights into the role of gut microbiota in PFAS-induced hepatotoxicity in frogs.

Oxidative stress responses as a marker of toxicity in mice exposed to polluted groundwater from an automobile junk market in South-Western Nigeria

The global trade in used vehicles and their components generates huge financial benefits but leads to detrimental environmental consequences including groundwater pollution and potential adverse health effects mediated by free-radical processes such as lipid peroxidation. We investigated oxidative stress responses in thirty-six, female mice orally exposed (via drinking) to graded concentrations (0%, 50%, and 100%) of groundwater from a well located within a major automobile junk market in SW-Nigeria containing extremely high levels of arsenic (0.332 ± 0.089 mg/l) and seventeen PAHs, which serves as domestic water supply. Blood samples from the mice were assayed for selected biochemical parameters at intervals of 7, 14, and 28 days. A significant dose- and duration-dependent increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) confirmed oxidative stress onset due to exposure to the polluted well-water, while a significant decline in nitric oxide (NO-) levels may suggest impaired endothelial smooth-muscle relaxation which may lead to the development of metabolic diseases over time. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH) showed a contrasting trend with Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) declined significantly by the 28th day. Two clusters were identified by principal component analysis-one involving MDA, SOD, and GSH suggesting that antioxidant responses driven mainly by SOD and GSH proved insufficient in scavenging the free radicals generated by lipid peroxidation. NO- and total protein clustered together possibly due to the significant declines in both over the study period. Histological examination of liver tissue of exposed mice corroborated the above findings and highlights the need for urgent remedial action.

Protective effect of Euphorbia thymifolia and Euphorbia hirta against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

OBJECTIVES

The present study aims to investigate the protective effect of Euphorbia thymifolia and Euphorbia hirta extracts on in vitro antioxidant activity and in vivo analysis on hepatic marker enzyme levels and histopathological changes in the liver of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) induced hepatotoxicity rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study includes 42 adult male Albino Wistar rats randomly divided into seven treatment groups, including control (basal diet, G1), CCl₄-induced single dose (1.5 ml/kg, i.p.) as the negative control (G2), G1 supplemented with 300 mg/kg of ethanol extract of E. thymifolia (G3) and E. hirta (G4), G2 supplemented with 300 mg/kg of ethanol extract of E. thymifolia (G5), E. hirta (G6), and silymarin (25 mg/kg b.w.) used as a standard drug (G7) for 21-days experimental period.

RESULTS

The ethanolic extracts of E. thymifolia and E. hirta exhibited potential in vitro antioxidant activity in a dose-dependent manner (25 μg/ml, 50 μg/ml, 100 μg/ml, 200 μg/ml and 250 μg/ml). Oxidative stress caused by CCl₄-induced the liver damage, including changes in liver marker enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase), enzymatic (superoxide dismutase and catalase), non-enzymatic antioxidants (lipid peroxides and glutathione) and hepatocellular alterations such as hydropic degeneration, irregular hepatocytes, and distention of the vein. Administration of E. thymifolia and E. hirta significantly (p < 0.05) restored the enzyme activity along with the histology of the liver.

CONCLUSION

The results from the current study demonstrate that E. thymifolia and E. hirta have the property of restoring hepatic redox capacity and antioxidant activities against CCl₄-induced acute liver damage.

Nanoparticle Delivery of Novel PDE4B Inhibitor for the Treatment of Alcoholic Liver Disease

The incidence of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is increasing worldwide while no effective treatment has been approved. The progression of ALD has proven to be related to the upregulation of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) expression, and PDE4 inhibitors showed potential to improve ALD. However, the application of PDE4 inhibitors is limited by the gastrointestinal side effects due to PDE4D inhibition. Therefore, we used a novel PDE4B inhibitor KVA-D88 as the therapeutic for ALD treatment. KVA-D88 inhibited inflammatory response, promoted β-oxidation, increased the level of antioxidants in the hepatocytes, and suppressed hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in vitro. To improve the solubility and availability in vivo, KVA-D88 was encapsulated into mPEG-b-P(CB-co-LA) nanoparticles (NPs) by solvent evaporation, with a mean particle size of 135 nm and drug loading of 4.2%. We fed the male C57BL/6 mice with a Lieber–DeCarli liquid diet containing 5% (v/v) ethanol for 6 weeks to induce ALD. Systemic administration of KVA-D88 free drug and KVA-D88-loaded NPs at 5 mg/kg significantly improved the ALD in mice. KVA-D88 significantly ameliorated alcohol-induced hepatic injury and inflammation. KVA-D88 also markedly reduced steatosis by promoting fatty acid β-oxidation. Liver fibrosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-caused cellular damage was observed to be alleviated by KVA-D88. KVA-D88-loaded NPs proved better efficacy than free drug in the animal study. In conclusion, the novel PDE4B inhibitor KVA-D88-loaded NPs have the potential to treat ALD in mice

Measurement of oxidant and antioxidant levels in liver tissue obtained from patients with liver transplantation: A case-control study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare oxidant and antioxidant substance accumulation in the liver tissues of patients with chronic liver disease (recipients) who underwent liver transplantation (LT) with living liver donors (LLDs) who underwent living donor hepatectomy (LDH).

METHODS

This prospective study included 160 recipients (LT group) and 40 LLDs (LLD group). During surgery, a piece of liver tissue measuring a minimum of 10 × 10 mm was obtained from the edge of the right lobe of the liver of recipients and LLDs, incubated for 10 min in saline to remove blood, and stored at -70 °C until biochemical analysis was performed. Catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), myeloperoxidase (MPO), prolidase, reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), total thiol, native thiol, and disulfide levels were measured in stored liver tissues.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference between LT and LLD groups in terms of age (p < 0.001), body mass index (p = 0.019), GSH-Px (p < 0.001), SOD (p = 0.001), MPO (p < 0.001), prolidase (p < 0.001), GSH (p < 0.001), and MDA (p = 0.003) values in favor of the LT group. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant difference between LT and LLD groups in terms of CAT (p < 0.001), TAS (p < 0.001), TOS (p < 0.001), OSI (p < 0.001), total thiol (p < 0.001), native thiol (p < 0.001), and disulfide (p < 0.001) values in favor of the LLD group. There were no differences between the groups in terms of sex.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that it is possible to assess the extent of oxidative stress in liver tissues by measuring the levels of antioxidant enzymes, oxidants, or the end-products of oxidative stress. With the use of optimum and minimally invasive methods, quantifying these molecules will potentially help evaluate the extent of liver disease and prognostication of liver cirrhosis.

Characterization of Buriti (Mauritia flexuosa) Pulp Oil and the Effect of Its Supplementation in an In Vivo Experimental Model

Mauritia flexuosa (Buriti) pulp oil contains bioactive substances and lipids that are protective against cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. We performed physical and chemical analyses to verify its quality and stability. Buriti oil was stable according to the Rancimat test, presenting an induction period of 6.6 h. We evaluated the effect of supplementation with crude buriti oil and olive oil on metabolic parameters in 108 Swiss mice for 90 days. We investigated six groups: extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) 1 and 2 (1000 and 2000 mg/kg), buriti oil (BO) 1 and 2 (1000 and 2000 mg/kg), synergic (S) (BO1 + EVOO1), and control (water dose 1000 mg/kg). The animals were euthanized to examine their blood, livers, and fats. The supplementation did not interfere with food consumption, weight gain, and histological alterations in the liver. Group S showed the strongest relationship with the fractions HDL-c and non-HDL-c, indicating a possible cardioprotective effect. Moreover, we observed significantly higher IL-6 levels in the control, EVOO2, and BO1 groups than in the EVOO1 group. Resistin was also significantly higher for the synergic treatment than for the control. We conclude that BO combined with EVOO could be an excellent food supplement for human consumption.

Pesticides and farmers' health: an analysis of variables related to management and property

The objective is to verify the effects of pesticides on the health of farmers in the southern region of Brazil, as well as the possible symptoms and cases of intoxication. This study has a quantitative, descriptive and exploratory approach, carried out in 12 agricultural locations in the municipality of Serra Catarinense. This research was approved by the research ethics committee and was applied through a structured questionnaire to 79 farmers who grow grains in the conventional cultivation system. The pesticide most used by farmers was glyphosate, followed by acephate. Of the individuals, 21.5% reported that they had suffered poisoning by pesticides by the respiratory route (58.8%). In addition, 28% had three symptoms of intoxication, demonstrating possible probable cases of intoxication. And 41% of workers reported headaches as a predominant symptom in applications with the use of pesticides, followed by dizziness/vertigo (16%). Farmers who use PPE during the preparation of the pesticide spray are neither chronic diseases (p<0.003) nor psychological problems (p<0.000). All four individuals who had cancer, all also eat while applying pesticides (p<0.049). The exposure to pesticides causes changes in the organism of those exposed, using them more vulnerable to health problems.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and the Gut-Liver Axis: Exploring an Undernutrition Perspective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic condition affecting one quarter of the global population. Although primarily linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome, undernutrition and the altered (dysbiotic) gut microbiome influence NAFLD progression. Both undernutrition and NAFLD prevalence are predicted to considerably increase, but how the undernourished gut microbiome contributes to hepatic pathophysiology remains far less studied. Here, we present undernutrition conditions with fatty liver features, including kwashiorkor and micronutrient deficiency. We then review the gut microbiota-liver axis, highlighting key pathways linked to NAFLD progression within both overnutrition and undernutrition. To conclude, we identify challenges and collaborative possibilities of emerging multiomic research addressing the pathology and treatment of undernourished NAFLD.

White meat proteins were more conducive to hepatic antioxidative status than soybean and red meat proteins

Intake of protein-rich foods might induce oxidative stress in organs. This study investigated the impacts of protein sources including casein, soybean, fish, chicken, pork, and beef proteins on hepatic oxidation and antioxidation status in rats. It was shown that meat proteins produced higher reactive oxygen species in livers (from 64,868 to 87,153 F/mgpro) than casein (54,045 F/mgpro) and soybean protein (48,361 F/mgpro, p < .05). Pork and soybean proteins induced higher hepatic oxidative stress than fish, chicken and beef proteins by increasing malondialdehyde production (>16%, p < .05). White meat (fish and chicken) proteins promoted hepatic superoxide dismutase activity and total antioxidant capacity compared to soybean and red meat (pork and beef) proteins (p < .05). Compared to red meat proteins, white meat proteins increased hepatic expressions of thioredoxin and glutaredoxin. Rats fed red meat proteins showed hepatic steatosis with small vacuoles. Therefore, white meat proteins were more conducive to hepatic antioxidative status than soybean and red meat proteins. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Intake of protein-rich foods may induce oxidative stress response at both cell and organ levels. The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of different protein sources including casein, soybean, fish, chicken, pork, and beef proteins on oxidation and antioxidation status in rat livers. It was shown that meat proteins induced higher production of reactive oxygen species than casein and soybean protein. However, white meat proteins showed higher antioxidant capacity than soybean and red meat proteins by increasing hepatic superoxide dismutase activity and total antioxidant capacity. Therefore, compared to soybean and red meat proteins, white meat proteins lowered hepatic oxidative stress by reducing malondialdehyde production. This study suggested that intake of moderate white meat proteins was more conducive to hepatic antioxidative status than intake of soybean and red meat proteins. This study would promote the understanding of healthy effects of different protein sources.

Aquaporin-9 facilitates liver regeneration following hepatectomy

Aquaporin-9 (AQP9) is an aquaglyceroporin strongly expressed in the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes facing the sinusoids. AQP9 is permeable to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and glycerol as well as to water. Here, we report impaired liver regeneration in AQP9^−/− mice which involves altered steady-state H₂O₂ concentration and glucose metabolism in hepatocytes. AQP9^−/− mice showed remarkably delayed liver regeneration and increased mortality following 70% or 90% partial hepatectomy. Compared to AQP9^+/+ littermates, AQP9^−/− mice showed significantly greater hepatic H₂O₂ concentration and more severe liver injury. Fluorescence measurements indicated impaired H₂O₂ transport across plasma membrane of primary cultured hepatocytes from AQP9^−/− mice, supporting the hypothesis that AQP9 deficiency results in H₂O₂ accumulation and oxidative injury in regenerating liver because of reduced export of intracellular H₂O₂ from hepatocytes. The H₂O₂ overload in AQP9^−/− hepatocytes reduced PI3K-Akt and insulin signaling, inhibited autophagy and promoted apoptosis, resulting in impaired proliferation and increased cell death. In addition, hepatocytes from AQP9^−/− mice had low liver glycerol and high blood glycerol levels, suggesting decreased glycerol uptake and gluconeogenesis in AQP9^−/− hepatocytes. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated expression of hepatic expression of aquaglyceroporins AQP9 and AQP3 in AQP9^−/− mice, but not water-selective channel AQP4, fully rescued the impaired liver regeneration phenotype as well as the oxidative injury and abnormal glucose metabolism. Our data revealed a pivotal role of AQP9 in liver regeneration by regulating hepatocyte H₂O₂ homeostasis and glucose metabolism, suggesting AQP9 as a novel target to enhance liver regeneration following injury, surgical resection or transplantation.

1.

AQP9 mediates H₂O₂ and glycerol transport across hepatocytes plasma membrane

2.

AQP9^−/− mice exhibit retained liver regeneration and higher mortality after PH

3.

Elevated H₂O₂ and reduced glucose levels appear in AQP9^−/− regenerating liver

4.

Replacement of aquaglyceroporin rescued impaired AQP9^−/− mouse liver regeneration

5.

AQP9 may become a novel target to improve liver regeneration

Antioxidant capacity of phenolic compounds separated from tea seed oil in vitro and in vivo

Tea seed oil is rich in phenols with good antioxidant capacity. However, the antioxidant capacity evaluation of tea seed oil polyphenols is not deep enough, which mainly focusing on the evaluation of the chemical system. Thirty-nine phenols were tentatively identified by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. The antioxidant capacity of phenol extracts was investigated in vitro and in vivo. The chemical assays showed the extracts had good proton and electron transfer capabilities. The CAA assay indicated the IC₅₀ of the extracts was 77.93 ± 4.80 µg/mL and cell antioxidant capacity of the extracts was 101.05 ± 6.70 μmol·QE/100 g of oil. The animal experiments suggested phenol extracts could significantly improve the organ index, reduce malondialdehyde content, and increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). This study was contributed to the antioxidant capacity of phenol extracts of tea seed oil by comprehensive evaluation.

Quercetin protects human liver cells from o,p'-DDT-induced toxicity by suppressing Nrf2 and NADPH oxidase-regulated ROS production

Epidemiologic studies have revealed that Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites are associated with liver diseases. However, there has been little emphasis on the mechanism underlying liver toxicity of o,p'-DDT and relevant effective inhibitors investigation. This study indicated o,p'-DDT exposure significantly decreased cell viability and promoted lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release based on the investigation of cytotoxicity by trypan blue exclusion counts, MTT, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Comet, micronuclei, and DNA-protein crosslinks (DPC) assays demonstrated o,p'-DDT exposure increased the comet parameters, micronuclei frequency, and DPC coefficient. Meanwhile, we found o,p'-DDT induced mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, which is characterized by the loss of of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), decreased Bcl-2 expression, and increased protein levels of Bax, cytochrome c, activated-caspase-9, and activated-caspase-3. Furthermore, o,p'-DDT induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, decreased the protein levels of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2) in the nuclear, and enhanced the expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase. However, quercetin treatment significantly antagonized o,p'-DDT-induced cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and apoptosis as well as effects on ROS, Nrf2, and NADPH oxidase. Taken together, these findings suggested quercetin could alleviate o,p'-DDT-induced toxicity in HL-7702 cells via inhibiting ROS production, which is modulated by down-regulating nuclear Nrf2 levels and NADPH oxidase expression.

Probiotic Bacillus Alleviates Oxidative Stress-Induced Liver Injury by Modulating Gut-Liver Axis in a Rat Model

Emerging evidence suggests a key role of gut microbiota in maintaining liver functions through modulating the gut–liver axis. In this study, we investigated whether microbiota alteration mediated by probiotic Bacillus was involved in alleviating oxidative stress- induced liver injury. Sprague–Dawley rats were orally administered Bacillus SC06 or SC08 for a 24-day period and thereafter intraperitoneally injected diquat (DQ) to induce oxidative stress. Results showed that Bacillus, particularly SC06 significantly inhibited hepatic injuries, as evidenced by the alleviated damaged liver structure, the decreased levels of ALT, AST, ALP and LDH, and the suppressed mitochondrial dysfunction. SC06 pretreatment markedly enhanced the liver antioxidant capacity by decreasing MDA and p47, and increasing T-AOC, SOD and HO-1.16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that DQ significantly changed the diversities and composition of gut microbiota, whereas Bacillus pretreatments could attenuate gut dysbiosis. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed that AST and MDA exerted a positive correlation with the opportunistic pathogenic genera and species (Escherichia and Shigella), and negatively correlated with the potential probiotics (Lactobacillus), while SOD exerted a reverse trend. The microbial metagenomic analysis demonstrated that Bacillus, particularly SC06 markedly suppress the metabolic pathways such as carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism and metabolism of cofactors and vitamins. Furthermore, SC06 decreased the gene abundance of the pathways mediating bacterial replication, secretion and pathogenicity. Taken together, Bacillus SC06 alleviates oxidative stress-induced liver injuries via optimizing the composition, metabolic pathways and pathogenic replication and secretion of gut microbiota. These findings elucidate the mechanisms of probiotics in alleviating oxidative stress and provide a promising strategy for preventing liver diseases by targeting gut microbiota.