Mangiferin prevents myocardial infarction-induced apoptosis and heart failure in mice by activating the Sirt1/FoxO3a pathway

Monascus pigment-protected bone marrow-derived stem cells for heart failure treatment

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in heart failure (HF) treatment. However, their clinical application is impeded by low retention rate and low cellular activity of MSCs caused by high inflammatory and reactive oxygen species (ROS) microenvironment. In this study, monascus pigment (MP) nanoparticle (PPM) was proposed for improving adverse microenvironment and assisting in transplantation of bone marrow-derived MSCs (BMSCs). Meanwhile, in order to load PPM and reduce the mechanical damage of BMSCs, injectable hydrogels based on Schiff base cross-linking were prepared. The PPM displays ROS-scavenging and macrophage phenotype-regulating capabilities, significantly enhancing BMSCs survival and activity in HF microenvironment. This hydrogel demonstrates superior biocompatibility, injectability, and tissue adhesion. With the synergistic effects of injectable, adhesive hydrogel and the microenvironment-modulating properties of MP, cardiac function was effectively improved in the pericardial sac of rats. Our results offer insights into advancing BMSCs-based HF therapies and their clinical applications.

Epigenetic regulation of diverse regulated cell death modalities in cardiovascular disease: Insights into necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis

Cell death constitutes a critical component of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. A growing array of non-apoptotic forms of regulated cell death (RCD)-such as necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and cuproptosis-has been identified and is intimately linked to various cardiovascular conditions. These forms of RCD are governed by genetically programmed mechanisms within the cell, with epigenetic modifications being a common and crucial regulatory method. Such modifications include DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone methylation, histone acetylation, and non-coding RNAs. This review recaps the roles of DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases, as well as the mechanisms by which epigenetic modifications regulate key proteins involved in cell death. Furthermore, we systematically catalog the existing epigenetic pharmacological agents targeting novel forms of RCD and their mechanisms of action in cardiovascular diseases. This article aims to underscore the pivotal role of epigenetic modifications in precisely regulating specific pathways of novel RCD in cardiovascular diseases, thus offering potential new therapeutic avenues that may prove more effective and safer than traditional treatments.

Mangiferin activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor pathway to protect SOD1-G93A induced NSC-34 motor neurons from oxidative stress and apoptosis

One of the main factors in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is oxidative stress. Mangiferin (MF), a natural plant polyphenol, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of our study was to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of MF in the hSOD1-G93A ALS cell model. Our result revealed that MF treatment reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), decreased oxidative damage, and reduced apoptosis. Additionally, it was observed that MF significantly increased the synthesis of the antioxidant genes hemeoxygenase-1 and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1, which are downstream of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and increased the expression and activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 knockdown greatly promoted apoptosis, which was reversed by MF treatment. To summarize, MF promoted the Nrf2 pathway and scavenged MDA and ROS to protect the ALS cell model.

Aerobic Exercise Activates AMPK/PGC-1α Pathway, Inhibits Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis Improves Mitochondrial and Infarcted Heart Function

Aerobic exercise (AE) has attracted considerable research attention as a non-invasive therapeutic tool in recent years. Accumulating evidence has revealed its protective role against a wide range of diseases. In this study, we aimed to establish whether AE could inhibit apoptosis in infarcted cardiomyocytes and protect the heart. AE in post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) mice improved their cardiac and physical functions. Transmission electron microscopy of myocardial tissue and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) assay findings revealed an increased mitochondrial number but decreased ATP content in the post-MI mice. Notably, this change was significantly reversed by AE. Immunofluorescence/ TUNEL staining assay results showed that AE inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Using immunoblotting of myocardial tissues, we found that AE increased the level of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2/Bax, significantly decreased the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein caspase-3, and activated the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway. Our findings provide evidence that AE activates the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway, improves mitochondrial energy supply capacity, and effectively inhibits apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Therefore, AE can be considered a promising post-infarction therapeutic intervention.

Drug-Loaded Mesoporous Polydopamine Nanoparticles in Chitosan Hydrogels Enable Myocardial Infarction Repair through ROS Scavenging and Inhibition of Apoptosis

In this study, we synthesized mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles (MPDA NPs) using an emulsion-induced interface assembly strategy and loaded epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) into MPDA NPs via electrostatic attraction to form EGCG@MPDA NPs. In the post myocardial infarction (MI) environment, these interventions specifically aimed to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and facilitate the repair of MI. We further combined them with a thermosensitive chitosan (CS) hydrogel to construct an injectable composite hydrogel (EGCG@MPDA/CS hydrogel). Utilizing in vitro experiments, the EGCG@MPDA/CS hydrogel exhibited excellent ROS-scavenging ability of H9C2 cells under the oxidative stress environment and also could inhibit their apoptosis. The EGCG@MPDA/CS hydrogel significantly promoted left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in infarcted rat models post injection for 28 days compared to the PBS group (51.25 ± 1.73% vs 29.31 ± 0.78%, P < 0.05). In comparison to the PBS group, histological analysis revealed a substantial increase in left ventricular (LV) wall thickness in the EGCG@MPDA/CS hydrogel group (from 0.58 ± 0.03 to 1.39 ± 1.11 mm, P < 0.05). This work presents a novel approach to enhance MI repair by employing the EGCG@MPDA/CS hydrogel. This hydrogel effectively reduces local oxidative stress by ROS and stimulates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway.

Colchicine Prevents Cardiac Rupture in Mice with Myocardial Infarction by Inhibiting P53-Dependent Apoptosis

Cardiac rupture is a fatal complication following myocardial infarction (MI) and there are currently no effective pharmacological strategies for preventing this condition. In this study, we investigated the effect of colchicine on post-infarct cardiac rupture in mice and its underlying mechanisms.We induced MI in mice by permanently ligating the left anterior descending artery. Oral colchicine or vehicle was administered at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg/day from day 1 to day 7 after MI. Cultured neonatal cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts were exposed to normoxia or anoxia and treated with colchicine.Colchicine significantly improved the survival rate (colchicine, n = 46: 82.6% versus vehicle, n = 42: 61.9%, P < 0.05) at 1 week after MI. Histological analysis revealed colchicine significantly reduced the infarct size and the number of macrophages around the infarct area. Colchicine decreased apoptosis in the myocardium of the border zone and cultured cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts as assessed by TUNEL assay. Colchicine also attenuated the activation of p53 and decreased the expression of cleaved-caspase 3 and bax, as assessed by Western blotting.Colchicine prevents cardiac rupture via inhibition of apoptosis, which is attributable to the downregulation of p53 activity. Our findings suggest that colchicine may be a prospective preventive medicine for cardiac rupture, however, large clinical trials are required.

SIRT1-FOXOs signaling pathway: A potential target for attenuating cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy constitutes a global health burden. It refers to myocardial injury that causes alterations in cardiac structure and function, ultimately leading to heart failure. Currently, there is no definitive treatment for cardiomyopathy. This is because existing treatments primarily focus on drug interventions to attenuate symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of the disease. Notably, the cardiomyocyte loss is one of the key risk factors for cardiomyopathy. This loss can occur through various mechanisms such as metabolic disturbances, cardiac stress (e.g., oxidative stress), apoptosis as well as cell death resulting from disorders in autophagic flux, etc. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are categorized as class III histone deacetylases, with their enzyme activity primarily reliant on the substrate nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD (+)). Among them, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is the most intensively studied in the cardiovascular system. Forkhead O transcription factors (FOXOs) are the downstream effectors of SIRT1. Several reports have shown that SIRT1 can form a signaling pathway with FOXOs in myocardial tissue, and this pathway plays a key regulatory role in cell loss. Thus, this review describes the basic mechanism of SIRT1-FOXOs in inhibiting cardiomyocyte loss and its favorable role in cardiomyopathy. Additionally, we summarized the SIRT1-FOXOs related regulation factor and prospects the SIRT1-FOXOs potential clinical application, which provide reference for the development of cardiomyopathy treatment.

Zishenhuoxue decoction-induced myocardial protection against ischemic injury through TMBIM6-VDAC1-mediated regulation of calcium homeostasis and mitochondrial quality surveillance

BACKGROUND

Zishenhuoxue decoction (ZSHX), a Chinese herbal medicine, exhibits myocardial and vascular endothelial protective properties. The intricate regulatory mechanisms underlying myocardial ischemic injury and its association with dysfunctional mitochondrial quality surveillance (MQS) remain elusive.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

To study the protective effect of ZSHX on ischemic myocardial injury in mice using a TMBIM6 gene-modified animal model and mitochondrial quality control-related experiments.

STUDY DESIGN

Using model animals and myocardial infarction surgery-induced ischemic myocardial injury TMBIM6 gene-modified mouse models, the pharmacological activity of ZSHX in inhibiting ischemic myocardial injury and mitochondrial homeostasis disorder in vivo was tested.

METHODS

Our focal point entailed scrutinizing the impact of ZSHX on ischemic myocardial impairment through the prism of TMBIM6. This endeavor was undertaken utilizing mice characterized by heart-specific TMBIM6 knockout (TMBIM6CKO) and their counterparts, the TMBIM6 transgenic (TMBIM6TG) and VDAC1 transgenic (VDAC1TG) mice.

RESULTS

ZSHX demonstrated dose-dependent effectiveness in mitigating ischemic myocardial injury and enhancing mitochondrial integrity. TMBIM6CKO hindered ZSHX's cardio-therapeutic and mitochondrial protective effects, while ZSHX's benefits persisted in TMBIM6TG mice. TMBIM6CKO also blocked ZSHX's regulation of mitochondrial function in HR-treated cardiomyocytes. Hypoxia disrupted the MQS in cardiomyocytes, including calcium overload, excessive fission, mitophagy issues, and disrupted biosynthesis. ZSHX counteracted these effects, thereby normalizing MQS and inhibiting calcium overload and cardiomyocyte necroptosis. Our results also showed that hypoxia-induced TMBIM6 blockade resulted in the over-activation of VDAC1, a major mitochondrial calcium uptake pathway, while ZSHX could increase the expression of TMBIM6 and inhibit VDAC1-mediated calcium overload and MQS abnormalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ZSHX regulates mitochondrial calcium homeostasis and MQS abnormalities through a TMBIM6-VDAC1 interaction mechanism, which helps to treat ischemic myocardial injury and provides myocardial protection. This study also offers insights for the clinical translation and application of mitochondrial-targeted drugs in cardiomyocytess.

Extracellular Vesicle-Derived Non-Coding RNAs: Key Mediators in Remodelling Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF), a syndrome of persistent development of cardiac insufficiency due to various heart diseases, is a serious and lethal disease for which specific curative therapies are lacking and poses a severe burden on all aspects of global public health. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are essential mediators of intercellular and interorgan communication, and are enclosed nanoscale vesicles carrying biomolecules such as RNA, DNA, and proteins. Recent studies have showed, among other things, that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), especially microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNA), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) can be selectively sorted into EVs and modulate the pathophysiological processes of HF in recipient cells, acting on both healthy and diseased hearts, which makes them promising targets for the diagnosis and therapy of HF. This review aims to explore the mechanism of action of EV-ncRNAs in heart failure, with emphasis on the potential use of differentially expressed miRNAs and circRNAs as biomarkers of cardiovascular disease, and recent research advances in the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure. Finally, we focus on summarising the latest advances and challenges in engineering EVs for HF, providing novel concepts for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.

Targeting SIRT2 in Aging-Associated Fibrosis Pathophysiology

Aging is a complex biological process that involves multi-level structural and physiological changes. Aging is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases. The accumulation of senescent cells changes the tissue microenvironment and is closely associated with the occurrence and development of tissue and organ fibrosis. Fibrosis is the result of dysregulated tissue repair response in the development of chronic inflammatory diseases. Recent studies have clearly indicated that SIRT2 is involved in regulating the progression of fibrosis, making it a potential target for anti-fibrotic drugs. SIRT2 is a NAD+ dependent histone deacetylase, shuttling between nucleus and cytoplasm, and is highly expressed in liver, kidney and heart, playing an important role in the occurrence and development of aging and fibrosis. Therefore, we summarized the role of SIRT2 in liver, kidney and cardiac fibrosis during aging.

Mangiferin Induces Post-Implant Osteointegration in Male Diabetic Rats

Background and Objectives: Hyperglycemia is known to undermine the osteointegration process of implants. In this study, the effects of mangiferin (MF) on the post-implant osteointegration process in a type-II diabetes model were investigated molecularly and morphologically. Materials and Methods: Sprague Dawley male rats were divided into three groups: control, diabetes, and diabetes + MF. All animals were implanted in their tibia bones on day 0. At the end of the 3-month experimental period, the animals' blood and the implant area were isolated. Biochemical measurements were performed on blood samples and micro-CT, qRT-PCR, histological, and immunohistochemical measurements were performed on tibia samples. Results: MF significantly improved the increased glucose, triglyceride-VLDL levels, and liver enzymes due to diabetes. By administering MF to diabetic rats, the osteointegration percentage and bone volume increased while porosity decreased. DKK1 and BMP-2 mRNA expressions and OPN, OCN, and OSN mRNA-protein expressions increased by MF administration in diabetic rats. Additionally, while osteoblast and osteoid surface areas increased with MF, osteoclast and eroded surface areas decreased. Conclusions: The findings of our study indicate that MF will be beneficial to the bone-repairing process and osteointegration, which are impaired by type-II diabetes.

TMF suppresses chondrocyte hypertrophy in osteoarthritic cartilage by mediating the FOXO3a/BMPER pathway

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of the joints, characterized by chronic inflammation, cartilage destruction and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Aberrant chondrocyte hypertrophy promotes cartilage destruction and OA development. Collagen X, the biomarker of chondrocyte hypertrophy, is upregulated by runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), which is mediated by the bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4)/Smad1 signaling pathway. BMP binding endothelial regulator (BMPER), a secreted glycoprotein, acts as an agonist of BMP4. 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF) is a natural flavonoid derived from Murraya exotica L. Results of our previous study demonstrated that TMF exhibits chondroprotective effects against OA development through the activation of Forkhead box protein O3a (FOXO3a) expression. However, whether TMF suppresses chondrocyte hypertrophy through activation of FOXO3a expression and inhibition of BMPER/BMP4/Smad1 signaling remains unknown. Results of the present study revealed that TMF inhibited collagen X and Runx2 expression, inhibited BMPER/BMP4/Smad1 signaling, and activated FOXO3a expression; thus, protecting against chondrocyte hypertrophy and OA development. However, BMPER overexpression and FOXO3a knockdown impacted the protective effects of TMF. Thus, TMF inhibited chondrocyte hypertrophy in OA cartilage through mediating the FOXO3a/BMPER signaling pathway.

Mangiferin, a component of Mangifera indica leaf extracts, inhibits lipid synthesis in human sebocytes

Inhibition of lipid synthesis in sebocytes is essential for acne treatments. The effects of natural product-derived substances on lipid synthesis are unknown. This study investigated the effects of water extract of Mangifera indica leaves (WEML) on lipid synthesis in human sebocytes. Sebocyte differentiation in low serum conditions increased lipid accumulation and proliferator-activated receptor γ expression. WEML treatment significantly inhibited lipid accumulation and adipogenic mRNA expression in sebocytes. Mangiferin, a bioactive compound in WEML, also reduced lipid accumulation and adipogenic mRNA expression via the AKT pathway. Thus, WEML and mangiferin effectively inhibit lipid synthesis in sebocytes, showing promise for acne treatment.

The recent advance and prospect of natural source compounds for the treatment of heart failure

Heart failure is a continuously developing syndrome of cardiac insufficiency caused by diseases, which becomes a major disease endangering human health as well as one of the main causes of death in patients with cardiovascular diseases. The occurrence of heart failure is related to hemodynamic abnormalities, neuroendocrine hormones, myocardial damage, myocardial remodeling etc, lead to the clinical manifestations including dyspnea, fatigue and fluid retention with complex pathophysiological mechanisms. Currently available drugs such as cardiac glycoside, diuretic, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, vasodilator and β receptor blocker etc are widely used for the treatment of heart failure. In particular, natural products and related active ingredients have the characteristics of mild efficacy, low toxicity, multi-target comprehensive efficacy, and have obvious advantages in restoring cardiac function, reducing energy disorder and improving quality of life. In this review, we mainly focus on the recent advance including mechanisms and active ingredients of natural products for the treatment of heart failure, which will provide the inspiration for the development of more potent clinical drugs against heart failure.

BNC1 deficiency induces mitochondrial dysfunction-triggered spermatogonia apoptosis through the CREB/SIRT1/FOXO3 pathway: the therapeutic potential of nicotinamide riboside and metformin†

Male infertility is a global health problem that disturbs numerous couples worldwide. Basonuclin 1 (BNC1) is a transcription factor mainly expressed in proliferative keratinocytes and germ cells. A frameshift mutation of BNC1 was identified in a large Chinese primary ovarian insufficiency pedigree. The expression of BNC1 was significantly decreased in the testis biopsies of infertile patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Previous studies have revealed that mice with BNC1 deficiency are generally subfertile and undergo gradual spermatogenic failure. We observed that apoptosis of spermatogonia is tightly related to spermatogenic failure in mice with a Bnc1 truncation mutation. Such impairment is related to mitochondrial dysfunction causing lower mitochondrial membrane potential and higher reactive oxygen species. We showed that downregulation of CREB/SIRT1/FOXO3 signaling participates in the above impairment. Administration of nicotinamide riboside or metformin reversed mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibited apoptosis in Bnc1-knockdown spermatogonia by stimulating CREB/SIRT1/FOXO3 signaling. Dietary supplementation with nicotinamide riboside or metformin in mutated mice increased SIRT1 signaling, improved the architecture of spermatogenic tubules, inhibited apoptosis of the testis, and improved the fertility of mice with a Bnc1 truncation mutation. Our data establish that oral nicotinamide riboside or metformin can be useful for the treatment of spermatogenic failure induced by Bnc1 mutation.

Targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway with natural plants and phytochemical ingredients: A novel therapeutic method for combatting cardiovascular diseases

The aim of this article is to introduce the roles and mechanisms of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in various cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial fibrosis, cardiac hypertrophy, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and myocardial ischemiareperfusion. In addition, the effects of phytochemical ingredients and different natural plants, mainly traditional Chinese medicines, on the regulation of different cardiovascular diseases via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway are discussed. Surprisingly, the JAK2 pathway has dual roles in different cardiovascular diseases. Future research should focus on the dual regulatory effects of different phytochemical ingredients and natural plants on JAK2 to pave the way for their use in clinical trials.

Bilobalide Prevents Apoptosis and Improves Cardiac Function in Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is an extremely severe cardiovascular disease, which ranks as the leading cause of sudden death worldwide. Studies have proved that cardiac injury following MI can cause cardiomyocyte apoptosis and myocardial fibrosis. Bilobalide (Bilo) from Ginkgo biloba leaves have been widely reported to possess excellent cardioprotective effects. However, concrete roles of Bilo in MI have not been investigated yet. We here designed both in vitro and in vivo experiments to explore the effects of Bilo on MI-induced cardiac injury and the underlying mechanisms of its action. We conducted in vitro experiments using oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-treated H9c2 cells. Cell apoptosis in H9c2 cells was assessed by conducting flow cytometry assay and evaluating apoptosis-related proteins with western blotting. MI mouse model was established by performing left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation. Cardiac function of MI mice was determined by assessing ejection fraction (EF), fractional shortening (FS), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD). Histological changes were analyzed, infarct size and myocardial fibrosis were measured by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining in cardiac tissues from the mice. The apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in MI mice was assessed by TUNEL staining. Western blotting was applied to detect the effect of Bilo on c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) signaling both in vitro and in vivo. Bilo inhibited OGD-induced cell apoptosis and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release in H9c2 cells. The protein levels of p-JNK and p-p38 were significantly downregulated by Bilo treatment. SB20358 (inhibitor of p38) and SP600125 (inhibitor of JNK) suppressed OGD-induced cell apoptosis as Bilo did. In MI mouse model, Bilo improved the cardiac function and significantly reduced the infarct size and myocardial fibrosis. Bilo inhibited MI-induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis in mice. Bilo suppressed the protein levels of p-JNK and p-p38 in cardiac tissues from MI mice. Bilo alleviated OGD-induced cell apoptosis in H9c2 cells and suppressed MI-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and myocardial fibrosis in mice via the inactivation of JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathways. Thus, Bilo may be an effective anti-MI agent.

Pesticide avermectin-induced hepatotoxicity and growth inhibition in carp: Ameliorative capacity and potential mechanisms of quercetin as a dietary additive

Flavonoid quercetin (QUE) has biological activities of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis, however, its protective effects against avermectin (AVM) induced liver toxicity in carp remains unclear. The objective of this research is to explore the biologically potent effects of QUE in AVM-induced hepatotoxicity in carp and its underlying mechanism. Therefore, we established a liver injury model in carp induced by AVM to evaluate QUE against AVM induced liver toxicity in carp. In this investigation, AVM dosage was determined as 2.404 μg/L for both groups, and an experimentation of 30 days duration was carried out. Various methods including hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, biochemical kits, real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR), western blotting, TUNEL, reactive oxygen species (ROS) staining, immunofluorescence (Hoseinifar, et al.,), and oil red O staining were used in this study. Results showed that the growth inhibition of carp was relieved in the QUE treatment group comparing to the AVM group. In the QUE treatment group, there was a significant decrease in the levels of ALT and AST in carp liver tissue. Additionally, the histopathological damage and lipid accumulation were alleviated compared to the AVM group. Moreover, QUE prevented AVM induced decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), but reduced accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA). In addition, the mRNA levels of liver pro-inflammatory factors of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (iL-1β), interleukin-6 (iL-6), interleukin-10 (iL-10) and the protein levels of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome were significantly down-regulated in the QUE treatment group in comparison to the AVM group. We also found that QUE could affect the expression of Bcl2-associated x (Bax), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), cleaved-cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (CCaspase3) key apoptotic proteins and TUNEL-labeled apoptotic hepatocytes by regulating SIRT1/FOXO3a signal pathway. In summary, QUE alleviated the growth inhibition, liver oxidative damage, lipid accumulation, inflammatory response, and apoptosis of carp induced by AVM. QUE is a potential protective agent against liver injury induced by AVM in carp.

Redox signaling and antioxidant defense in osteoclasts

Bone remodeling is essential for the repair and replacement of damaged or aging bones. Continuous remodeling is necessary to prevent the accumulation of bone damage and to maintain bone strength and calcium balance. As bones age, the coupling mechanism between bone formation and absorption becomes dysregulated, and bone loss becomes dominant. Bone development and repair rely on interaction and communication between osteoclasts and surrounding cells. Osteoclasts are specialized cells that are accountable for bone resorption and degradation, and any abnormalities in their activity can result in notable alterations in bone structure and worsen disease symptoms. Recent findings from transgenic mouse models and bone analysis have greatly enhanced our understanding of the origin, differentiation pathway, and activation stages of osteoclasts. In this review, we explore osteoclasts and discuss the cellular and molecular events that drive their generation, focusing on intracellular oxidative and antioxidant signaling. This knowledge can help develop targeted therapies for diseases associated with osteoclast activation.

The potential of herbal drugs to treat heart failure: The roles of Sirt1/AMPK

Heart failure (HF) is a highly morbid syndrome that seriously affects the physical and mental health of patients and generates an enormous socio-economic burden. In addition to cardiac myocyte oxidative stress and apoptosis, which are considered mechanisms for the development of HF, alterations in cardiac energy metabolism and pathological autophagy also contribute to cardiac abnormalities and ultimately HF. Silent information regulator 1 (Sirt1) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent deacetylases and phosphorylated kinases, respectively. They play similar roles in regulating some pathological processes of the heart through regulating targets such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α), protein 38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). We summarized the synergistic effects of Sirt1 and AMPK in the heart, and listed the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that exhibit cardioprotective properties by modulating the Sirt1/AMPK pathway, to provide a basis for the development of Sirt1/AMPK activators or inhibitors for the treatment of HF and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Serelaxin Protects H9c2 Cardiac Myoblasts against Hypoxia and Reoxygenation-Induced Damage through Activation of AMP Kinase/Sirtuin1: Further Insight into the Molecular Mechanisms of the Cardioprotection of This Hormone

Serelaxin (RLX), namely the human recombinant Relaxin-2 hormone, protects the heart from ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced damage due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant properties. RLX acts by binding to its specific RXFP1 receptor whereby it regulates multiple transduction pathways. In this in vitro study, we offer the first evidence for the involvement of the AMP kinase/Sirtuin1 (AMPK/SIRT1) pathway in the protection by RLX against hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced damage in H9c2 cells. The treatment of the H/R-exposed cells with RLX (17 nmol L-1) enhanced SIRT1 expression and activity. The inhibition of SIRT1 signaling with EX527 (10 µmol L-1) reduced the beneficial effect of the hormone on mitochondrial efficiency and cell apoptosis. Moreover, RLX upregulated the AMPK pathway, as shown by the increase in the expression of phospho-AMPK-activated protein. Finally, AMPK pathway inhibition by Compound C (10 and 20 μmol L-1) abrogated the increase in SIRT1 expression induced by RLX, thus suggesting the involvement of the AMPK pathway in this effect of RLX. These results strengthen the concept that RLX exerts its cardioprotective effects against H/R-induced injury through multiple pathways which also include AMPK/SIRT1. These new findings support the use of RLX or RLX-derived molecules as a promising therapeutic for those diseases in which I/R and oxidative stress play a pathogenic role.

The SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway mediates the anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of liquiritigenin

BACKGROUND

At present, the treatment options available for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are both limited and often come with severe side effects, emphasizing the pressing requirement for innovative therapeutic alternatives. Myofibroblasts, which hold a central role in pulmonary fibrosis, have a close association with the Smad signaling pathway induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and the transformation of myofibroblasts driven by oxidative stress. Liquiritigenin, an active compound extracted from the traditional Chinese herb licorice, boasts a wide array of biomedical properties, such as anti-fibrosis and anti-oxidation. The primary objective of this study was to examine the impact of liquiritigenin on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice and the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

The anti-pulmonary fibrosis and anti-oxidant effects of liquiritigenin in vivo were tested by HE staining, Masson staining, DHE staining and bio-chemical methods. In vitro, primary mouse lung fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β1 with or without liquiritigenin, the effects of liquiritigenin in inhibiting differentiation of myofibroblasts and facilitating the translocation of Nrf2 were valued using Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR), western blotting and immunofluorescence. Nrf2 siRNA and SIRT1 siRNA were used to investigate the mechanism underlies liquiritigenin's effect in inhibiting myofibroblast differentiation.

RESULTS

Liquiritigenin displayed a dose-dependent reduction effect in bleomycin-induced fibrosis. In laboratory experiments, it was evident that liquiritigenin possessed the ability to enhance and activate sirtuin1 (SIRT1), thereby facilitating the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and mitigating the oxidative stress-induced differentiation of primary mouse myofibroblasts. Moreover, our investigation unveiled that SIRT1 not only regulated myofibroblast differentiation via Nrf2-mediated antioxidant responses against oxidative stress but also revealed liquiritigenin's activation of SIRT1, enabling direct binding to Smad. This led to decreased phosphorylation of the Smad complex, constrained nuclear translocation, and suppressed acetylation of the Smad complex, ultimately curtailing the transcription of fibrotic factors. Validation in live subjects provided substantial evidence for the anti-fibrotic efficacy of liquiritigenin through the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings imply that targeting myofibroblast differentiation via the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway may constitute a pivotal strategy for liquiritigenin-based therapy against pulmonary fibrosis.

Mangiferin (mango) attenuates AOM-induced colorectal cancer in rat's colon by augmentation of apoptotic proteins and antioxidant mechanisms

Mangiferin (MF) is a natural C-glucosylxantone compound that has many substantial curative potentials against numerous illnesses including cancers. The present study's goal is to appraise the chemo preventive possessions of MF on azoxymethane (AOM)-mediated colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in rats. Rats clustered into 5 groups, negative control (A), inoculated subcutaneously with normal saline twice and nourished on 0.5% CMC; groups B-E injected twice with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane followed by ingestion of 0.5% CMC (B, cancer control); intraperitoneal inoculation of 35 mg/kg 5-fluorouracil (C, reference rats) or nourished on 30 mg/kg (D) and 60 mg/kg (E) of MF. Results of gross morphology of colorectal specimens showed significantly lower total colonic ACF incidence in MF-treated rats than that of cancer controls. The colon tissue examination of cancer control rats showed increased ACF availability with bizarrely elongated nuclei, stratified cells, and higher depletion of the submucosal glands compared to MF-treated rats. Mangiferin treatment caused increased regulation of pro-apoptotic (increased Bax) proteins and reduced the β-catenin) proteins expression. Moreover, rats fed on MF had significantly higher glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and lower malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in their colonic tissue homogenates. Mangiferin supplementation significantly down-shifted pro-inflammatory cytokines (transforming growth factor-α and interleukine-6) and up-shifted anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukine-10) based on serum analysis. The chemo-protective mechanistic of MF against AOM-induced ACF, shown by lower ACF values and colon tissue penetration, could be correlated with its positive modulation of apoptotic cascade, antioxidant enzymes, and inflammatory cytokines originating from AOM oxidative stress insults.

Unraveling the role of Xist RNA in cardiovascular pathogenesis

Understanding the molecular pathways behind cardiovascular illnesses is crucial due to the enormous worldwide health burden they impose. New insights into the role played by Xist (X-inactive specific transcript) RNA in the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases have emerged from recent studies. Since its discovery, Xist RNA has been known for its role in X chromosome inactivation during embryogenesis; however, new data suggest that its function extends well beyond the control of sex chromosomes. The regulatory roles of Xist RNA are extensive, encompassing epigenetic changes, gene expression, cellular identity, and sex chromosomal inactivation. There is potential for the involvement of this complex regulatory web in a wide range of illnesses, including cardiovascular problems. Atherosclerosis, hypertrophy, and cardiac fibrosis are all conditions linked to dysregulation of Xist RNA expression. Alterations in DNA methylation and histones are two examples of epigenetic changes that Xist RNA orchestrates, leading to modifications in gene expression patterns in different cardiovascular cells. Additionally, Xist RNA has been shown to contribute to the development of cardiovascular illnesses by modulating endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress responses. New treatment approaches may become feasible with a thorough understanding of the complex function of Xist RNA in cardiovascular diseases. By focusing on Xist RNA and the regulatory network with which it interacts, we may be able to slow the progression of atherosclerosis, cardiac hypertrophy, and fibrosis, thereby opening novel therapeutic options for cardiovascular diseases amenable to precision medicine. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge concerning the impact of Xist RNA in cardiovascular disorders.

Resveratrol‑mediated activation of SIRT1 inhibits the PERK‑eIF2α‑ATF4 pathway and mitigates bupivacaine‑induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis play significant roles in the development of neurotoxicity caused by bupivacaine (BUP). By activating sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), resveratrol (RSV) can regulate various cellular processes associated with anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory responses, thereby exerting neuroprotective effects. However, it remains unknown whether the activation of SIRT1 by RSV is able to attenuate BUP-induced ER stress and apoptosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the effect of RSV on BUP-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells and the underlying mechanism. Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, flow cytometry and inverted phase-contrast microscopy were used to assess the viability, apoptosis rate and morphological changes of the cells, respectively. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to analyze the levels of SIRT1, the apoptosis-related proteins Bax, Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3, the ER stress-related proteins glucose-regulated protein 78, caspase-12 and CHOP, and the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK)-eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 α (eIF2α)-activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) pathway-associated proteins phosphorylated (p)-PERK, PERK, p-eIF2α, eIF2α and ATF4. The results revealed that BUP induced cell apoptosis and decreased cell viability, accompanied by the downregulation of SIRT1. However, RSV restored SIRT1 protein expression, downregulated the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax, upregulated the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, decreased the apoptosis rate of the cells and increased cell viability. Furthermore, the anti-apoptotic effects exhibited by RSV were associated with inhibition of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway of ER stress. However, the protective effect of RSV was significantly mitigated by the SIRT1 inhibitor EX527. These results indicate that the activation of SIRT1 by RSV alleviates BUP-induced PC12 cell ER stress and apoptosis via regulation of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 pathway. These findings offer insights into the molecular mechanism underlying BUP-induced apoptosis and suggest the potential of RSV as a therapeutic agent against the neurotoxicity caused by BUP.

Interaction of exercise training with taurine attenuates infarct size and cardiac dysfunction via Akt-Foxo3a-Caspase-8 signaling pathway

This research aimed to investigate the synergistic protective effect of exercise training and taurine on Akt-Foxo3a-Caspase-8 signaling related to infarct size and cardiac dysfunction. Therefore, 25 male Wistar rats with MI were divided into five groups: sham (Sh), control-MI(C-MI), exercise training-MI(Exe-MI), taurine supplementation-MI(Supp-MI), and exercise training + taurine-MI(Exe + Supp-MI). The taurine groups were given a 200 mg/kg/day dose of taurine by drinking water. Exercise training was conducted for 8 weeks (5 days/week), each session alternated 2 min with 25-30% VO2peak and 4 min with 55-60% VO2peak for 10 alternations. Then, the left ventricle tissue samples were taken from all groups. Exercise training and taurine activated Akt and decreased Foxo3a. Expression of the caspase-8 gene was increased in cardiac necrosis after MI, While, after 12 weeks of intervention decreased. Results exhibited that exercise training combined with taurine has a greater effect than either alone on activating the Akt-Foxo3a-caspase signaling pathway (P < 0.001). MI-induced myocardial injury leads to increase collagen deposition (P < 0.001) and infarct size and results in cardiac dysfunction via reduced stroke volume, ejection fraction, and fractional shortening (P < 0.001). Exercise training and taurine improved cardiac functional parameters (SV, EF, FS) and infarct size (P < 0.001) after 8 weeks of intervention in rats with MI. Also, the interaction of exercise training and taurine has a greater effect than alone on these variables. Interaction of exercise training with taurine supplementation induces a general amelioration of the cardiac histopathological profiles and improves cardiac remodeling via activating Akt-Foxo3a-Caspase-8 signaling with protective effects against MI.

The effect and mechanism of Zigui-Yichong-Fang on improving ovarian reserve in premature ovarian insufficiency by activating SIRT1/Foxo3a pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zigui-Yichong-Fang (ZGYCF) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of infertility. It is clinically used to regulate the hormone level of patients, improve ovarian reserve function and increase pregnancy rate. However, the exact mechanism of action is not yet clear.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aims to explore the potential impact of ZGYCF on POI and its mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was used to identify the main compounds of ZGYCF. After confirming the therapeutic effect of ZGYCF on cyclophosphamide-induced POI mice, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was carried out to explore the mechanism. Then, the effects of ZGYCF on SIRT1 deacetylated Foxo3a and apoptosis were verified from multiple perspectives by serum hormone level, mRNA validation, histomorphology and protein expression, acetylation modification and other experiments.

RESULTS

ZGYCF can improve the morphological changes of ovarian tissue in POI model mice, reduce the damage of primordial follicles and other follicles at all stages, and protect ovarian reserve. The results of transcriptome sequencing showed that the genes expression of PI3K signal and apoptosis signal pathway were increased in POI model mice; ZGYCF can up-regulate the expression of SIRT1 gene and the expression of estradiol, apoptosis inhibition and other signal pathway genes. In addition, ZGYCF can reduce follicular damage and ovarian cell apoptosis in POI model mice through activating the deacetylation of Foxo3a by SIRT1, and improve ovarian reserve function.

CONCLUSIONS

ZGYCF may improve ovarian reserve function of CTX-induced POI mice by activating SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of Foxo3a, and play a role in the treatment of POI.

The role of lncRNAs/miRNAs/Sirt1 axis in myocardial and cerebral injury

In recent years, researchers have begun to realize the importance of the role of non-coding RNAs in the treatment of cancer and cardiovascular and neurological diseases. LncRNAs and miRNAs are important non-coding RNAs, which regulate gene expression and activate mRNA translation through binding to diverse target sites. Their involvement in the regulation of protein function and the modulation of physiological and pathological conditions continues to be investigated. Sirtuins, especially Sirt1, have a critical function in regulating a variety of physiological processes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy. The lncRNAs/miRNAs/Sirt1 axis may be a novel regulatory mechanism, which is involved in the progression and/or prevention of numerous diseases. This review focuses on recent findings on the crosstalk between non-coding RNAs and Sirt1 in myocardial and cerebral injuries and may provide some insight into the development of novel approaches in the treatment of these disorders.Abbreviation: BMECs, brain microvascular endothelial cells; C2dat1, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II subunit delta (CAMK2D)-associated transcript 1; EPCs, endothelial progenitor cells; FOXOs, forkhead transcription factors; GAS5, growth arrest-specific 5; HAECs, human aortic endothelial cells; HAND2-AS1, HAND2 Antisense RNA 1; HIF-1α, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α; ILF3-AS1, interleukin enhancer-binding factor 3-antisense RNA 1; KLF3-AS1, KLF3 antisense RNA 1; LncRNA, long noncoding RNA; LUADT1, Lung Adenocarcinoma Associated Transcript 1; MALAT1, Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1; miRNA, microRNA; NEAT1, nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1; NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa B; OIP5-AS1, Opa-interacting protein 5-antisense transcript 1; Sirt1-AS, Sirt1 Antisense RNA; SNHG7, small nucleolar RNA host gene 7; SNHG8, small nucleolar RNA host gene 8; SNHG12, small nucleolar RNA host gene 12; SNHG15, small nucleolar RNA host gene 15; STAT3, signal transducers and activators of transcription 3; TUG1, taurine up-regulated gene 1; VSMCs, vascular smooth muscle cells; XIST, X inactive specific transcript; ZFAS1, ZNFX1 Antisense RNA 1.

The forkhead box O3 (FOXO3): a key player in the regulation of ischemia and reperfusion injury

Forkhead box O3 is a protein encoded by the FOXO3 gene expressed throughout the body. FOXO3 could play a crucial role in longevity and many other pathologies, such as Alzheimer's disease, glioblastoma, and stroke. This study is a comprehensive review of the expression of FOXO3 under ischemia and reperfusion (IR) and the molecular mechanisms of its regulation and function. We found that the expression level of FOXO3 under ischemia and IR is tissue-specific. Specifically, the expression level of FOXO3 is increased in the lung and intestinal epithelial cells after IR. However, FOXO3 is downregulated in the kidney after IR and in the skeletal muscles following ischemia. Interestingly, both increased and decreased FOXO3 expression have been reported in the brain, liver, and heart following IR. Nevertheless, these contribute to stimulating ischemia and reperfusion injury via the induction of inflammatory response, apoptosis, autophagy, mitophagy, pyroptosis, and oxidative damage. These results suggest that FOXO3 could play protective effects in some organs and detrimental effects in others against IR injury. Most importantly, these findings indicate that controlling FOXO3 expression, genetically or pharmacologically, could contribute to preventing or treating ischemia and reperfusion damage.

Phytochemicals as potential target on thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are currently the major cause of death and morbidity on a global scale. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is a marker related to metabolism, oxidation, and inflammation induced in CVDs. The overexpression of TXNIP is closely related to the occurrence and development of CVDs. Hence, TXNIP inhibition is critical for reducing the overactivation of its downstream signaling pathway and, as a result, myocardial cell damage. Due to the chemical variety of dietary phytochemicals, they have garnered increased interest for CVDs prevention and therapy. Phytochemicals are a source of medicinal compounds for a variety of conditions, which aids in the development of effective and safe TXNIP-targeting medications. The objective of this article is to find and virtual screen novel safe, effective, and economically viable TXNIP inhibitors from flavonoids, phenols, and alkaloids derived from foods and plants. The results of the docking study revealed that silibinin, rutin, luteolin, baicalin, procyanidin B2, hesperetin, icariin, and tilianin in flavonoids, polydatin, resveratrol, and salidroside in phenols, and neferine in alkaloids had the highest Vina scores, indicating that these compounds are the active chemicals on TXNIP. In particular, silibinin can be utilized as a lead chemical in the process of structural alteration. These dietary phytochemicals may aid in the discovery of lead compounds for the development of innovative TXNIP agents for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

FOXO transcription factors as therapeutic targets in human diseases

Forkhead box (FOX)O proteins are transcription factors (TFs) with four members in mammals designated FOXO1, FOXO3, FOXO4, and FOXO6. FOXO TFs play a pivotal role in the cellular adaptation to diverse stress conditions. FOXO proteins act as context-dependent tumor suppressors and their dysregulation has been implicated in several age-related diseases. FOXO3 has been established as a major gene for human longevity. Accordingly, FOXO proteins have emerged as potential targets for the therapeutic development of drugs and geroprotectors. In this review, we provide an overview of the most recent advances in our understanding of FOXO regulation and function in various pathological conditions. We discuss strategies targeting FOXOs directly or by the modulation of upstream regulators, shedding light on the most promising intervention points. We also reveal the most relevant clinical indications and discuss the potential, trends, and challenges of modulating FOXO activity for therapeutic purposes.

DL-3-N-Butylphthalide Promotes Cartilage Extracellular Matrix Synthesis and Inhibits Osteoarthritis Development by Regulating FoxO3a

Osteoarthritis (OA) has been reported as a progressive disease in the elderly, primarily characterized by degenerated articular cartilage. There has been no satisfactory drug for the treatment of OA. DL-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP), a small molecule compound extracted from celery seeds, may have antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities in numerous studies. However, the effects of NBP on OA and its mechanisms have been rarely reported. In this study, the effect of NBP on OA in vitro and in vivo and its possible mechanism were investigated. The results showed that NBP injection into the knee joint inhibited osteoarthritis development in a rat model of osteoarthritis induced by DMM+ACLT. NBP could increase the expressions of extracellular matrix-related components (such as type II collagen, aggrecan, proteoglycan 4, and SRY-box 9) in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes and cartilage explants. Moreover, NBP promoted the expressions of SOD and CAT. NBP upregulated the expression of FoxO3a by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway, which subsequently inhibited the apoptosis of human OA chondrocytes. In conclusion, NBP promotes cartilage extracellular matrix synthesis and inhibits osteoarthritis development and the underlying mechanism related to the activation of FoxO3a.

Role of Posttranslational Modifications of Proteins in Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, making it an urgent concern. Although some studies have been performed on CVD, its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown for all types of CVD. However, recent in vivo and in vitro studies have successfully identified the important roles of posttranslational modifications (PTMs) in various diseases, including CVD. Protein modification, also known as PTMs, refers to the chemical modification of specific amino acid residues after protein biosynthesis, which is a key process that can influence the activity or expression level of proteins. Studies on PTMs have contributed directly to improving the therapeutic strategies for CVD. In this review, we examined recent progress on PTMs and highlighted their importance in both physiological and pathological conditions of the cardiovascular system. Overall, the findings of this review contribute to the understanding of PTMs and their potential roles in the treatment of CVD.

Daming capsule protects against myocardial infarction by promoting mitophagy via the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a myocardial injury caused by coronary thrombosis or persistent ischemia and hypoxia. Due to its high morbidity and mortality, a safer and more effective treatment strategy is urgently needed. Daming capsule (DMC), a hypolipidemic drug, reportedly exerts cardioprotective effects in clinical and basic research, although its protective mechanism remains unknown. To investigate the mechanism underlying DMC-mediated improvement of cardiac function post-MI, C57/BL6 mice subjected to coronary artery ligation were administered DMC for 4 weeks. Our data demonstrated that DMC significantly improved cardiac structure and function compared to the saline group. Moreover, DMC inhibited inflammatory response and oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial structure and function in MI mice and hypoxia-stressed cardiomyocytes. Next, our research proved that DMC increased the expression of mitophagy receptor NLRX1. Interestingly, with the administration of DMC and siNLRX1, NLRX1 expression, mitochondria and lysosome colocalization, and mitochondrial membrane potential decreased, while mitochondrial ROS accumulation increased, suggesting that DMC promoted mitophagy to improve mitochondrial function via NLRX1 regulation. Further analysis showed that DMC activated the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Our data showed that SIRT1 knockdown downregulated NLRX1 expression, leading to structural damage and functional impairment in mitochondria, as well as increased oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and decreased cardiac function in MI mice. Collectively, our findings reveal that DMC improves cardiac function post-MI by increasing mitophagy and inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammotory response in cardiomyocytes through the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway.

Apigenin Attenuates Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles-Induced Nephrotoxicity by Activating FOXO3a

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are widely used in many biomedical applications and clinical fields. However, the applications of MSNs are limited by their severe toxicity. Apigenin (AG) has demonstrated pharmacological effects with low toxicity. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of AG in the progression of MSNs-induced renal injury. BALB/c mice and NRK-52E cells were exposed to MSNs with or without AG. AG protected mice and NRK-52E cells from the MSNs-induced pathological variations in renal tissues and decreased cell viability. AG significantly reduced the levels of serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr), upregulated the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT), and improved the pathological changes of the kidney in MSNs-treated mice. The protective effects of AG were associated with its ability to increase the levels of antioxidants, reduce the accumulation of ROS, and inhibit the expression of the inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6). In addition, AG treatment upregulated the activity of FOXO3a, increased the level of IkBα, and reduced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB, which ultimately alleviated MSNs-induced inflammation. Nuclear FOXO3a translocation also triggered antioxidant gene transcription and protected nephrocyte from oxidative damage. However, knockdown of FOXO3a significantly blocked the protective effects of AG. These findings suggested that AG could be a promising therapeutic strategy for MSNs-induced nephrotoxicity, and this protective effect might be related to the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation via the FOXO3a/NF-κB pathway.

Effect of Fluoride on Cytotoxicity Involved in Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Review of Mechanism

Fluoride is commonly found in the soil and water environment and may act as chronic poison. A large amount of fluoride deposition causes serious harm to the ecological environment and human health. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a shared feature of fluorosis, and numerous studies reported this phenomenon in different model systems. More and more evidence shows that the functions of mitochondria play an extremely influential role in the organs and tissues after fluorosis. Fluoride invades into cells and mainly damages mitochondria, resulting in decreased activity of mitochondrial related enzymes, weakening of protein expression, damage of respiratory chain, excessive fission, disturbance of fusion, disorder of calcium regulation, resulting in the decrease of intracellular ATP and the accumulation of Reactive oxygen species. At the same time, the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential leads to the release of Cyt c, causing a series of caspase cascade reactions and resulting in apoptosis. This article mainly reviews the mechanism of cytotoxicity related to mitochondrial dysfunction after fluorosis. A series of mitochondrial dysfunction caused by fluorosis, such as mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial Reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial fission, mitochondrial respiratory chain, mitochondrial autophagy apoptosis, mitochondrial fusion disturbance, mitochondrial calcium regulation are emphasized, and the mechanism of the effect of fluoride on cytotoxicity related to mitochondrial dysfunction are further explored.

Ferulic acid and berberine, via Sirt1 and AMPK, may act as cell cleansing promoters of healthy longevity

Ferulic acid, a bacterial metabolite of anthocyanins, seems likely to be a primary mediator of the health benefits associated with anthocyanin-rich diets, and has long been employed in Chinese cardiovascular medicine. In rodent studies, it has exerted wide-ranging antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, the molecular basis of which remains rather obscure. However, recent studies indicate that physiologically relevant concentrations of ferulic acid can boost expression of Sirt1 at mRNA and protein levels in a range of tissues. Sirt1, a class III deacetylase, functions to detect a paucity of oxidisable substrate, and in response works in various ways to promote cellular survival and healthful longevity. Sirt1 promotes ‘cell cleansing’ and cell survival by boosting autophagy, mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, phase 2 induction of antioxidant enzymes via Nrf2, and DNA repair—while inhibiting NF-kB-driven inflammation, apoptosis, and cellular senescence, and boosting endothelial expression of the protective transcription factor kruppel-like factor 2. A deficit of the latter appears to mediate the endothelial toxicity of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Ferulic acid also enhances the activation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) by increasing expression and activity of its activating kinase LKB1—whereas AMPK in turn amplifies Sirt1 activity by promoting induction of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltranferase, rate-limiting for generation of Sirt1’s obligate substrate NAD+. Curiously, AMPK acts by independent mechanisms to potentiate many of the effects mediated by Sirt1. Hence, it is proposed that ferulic acid may exert complementary or synergistic health-promoting effects when used in conjunction with clinically useful AMPK activators, such as the nutraceutical berberine. Additional nutraceuticals which might have potential for amplifying certain protective effects of ferulic acid/berberine are also discussed.

5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone ameliorates cholesterol dysregulation by mediating SIRT1/FOXO3a/ABCA1 signaling in osteoarthritis chondrocytes

Dyslipidemia has been associated with the development of osteoarthritis. Our previous study found that 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF) exhibited protective activities against the pathological changes of osteoarthritis. Aim: To investigate the roles of TMF in regulating ABCA1-mediated cholesterol metabolism. Methods: Knockdown and overexpression were employed to study gene functions. Protein-protein interaction was investigated by co-immunoprecipitation, and the subcellular locations of proteins were studied by immunofluorescence. Results: IL-1β decreased ABCA1 expression and induced apoptosis. Therapeutically, TMF ameliorated the effects of IL-1β. FOXO3a knockdown expression abrogated the effects of TMF, and FOXO3a overexpression increased ABCA1 expression by interacting with LXRα. TMF promoted FOXO3a nuclear translocation by activating SIRT1 expression. Conclusions: TMF ameliorates cholesterol dysregulation by increasing the expression of FOXO3a/LXRα/ABCA1 signaling through SIRT1 in C28/I2 cells.

Mangiferin inhibits hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced alveolar epithelial cell injury via the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway

Lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI) is one of the complications that can occur after lung transplantation and may lead to morbidity and mortality. Mangiferin (MAF) is a naturally occurring glucosyl xanthone that has been documented to possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and potent antioxidant effects. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of MAF on LIRI using a hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) cell model. In the present study, the viability of lung alveolar epithelial cells (A549) and H/R-A549 were detected by MTT assay. ELISA was used to evaluate the expression levels of IL-6 and IL-1β. TUNEL assay and western blotting were used to evaluate the apoptosis. In addition, H/R-A549 cells were treated with sirtinol, which is known inhibitor of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activity, to determine the effects of MAF on proteins associated with the SIRT1/5'AMP-activate protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway using western blotting. The results showed that 20 µM MAF exerted a protective effect on A549 cells against H/R mediating no clear cytotoxic effects. In terms of inflammation, MAF reduced IL-6, IL-1β, cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression, which was accompanied by activation of the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway. In addition, compared with those in the group treated with sirtinol, expression of SIRT1, Bcl-2 and AMPK activity were elevated in MAF-treated H/R-A549 cells, whereas the expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 was suppressed. TUNEL analysis of H/R-A549 cells treated with MAF in combination with sirtinol revealed that treatment with sirtinol blocked the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway and increased the apoptosis rate compared with the MAF group. Taken together, results of the present study revealed that MAF could inhibit lung H/R cell injury through the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway.

Nuciferine Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Chemotherapeutic drugs are a known factor that impairs the system of life due to their severe side effects. A more worrying fact is that the patients administered with doxorubicin fall under the risk of cardiotoxicity. The evolution of exploring plant-derived compounds is a possible way to combat health issues in therapeutic applications. Hence, this study focuses on the protective effect of plant-based compound nuciferine (NFN) against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in both in vitro and in vivo models. In this investigation, nuciferine significantly reduces DOX-mediated cardiotoxicity by mitigating reactive oxygen species, thereby preventing DNA fragmentation, regulating apoptosis genes and reducing the caspase 3/7 levels in vitro. Besides, nuciferine has shown significant protection against DOX-induced cardiac impairment and the upregulation of cardiogenic markers in vivo. The DOX-induced oxidative stress can be mitigated via enhancing the endogenous antioxidants, thereby controlling ROS-mediated apoptosis. In virtue of these potential features, nuciferine can be a budding candidate to address therapeutic needs.

Mangiferin prevents myocardial infarction-induced apoptosis and heart failure in mice by activating the Sirt1/FoxO3a pathway

Myocardial infarction (MI) commonly leads to cardiomyocyte apoptosis and heart failure. Mangiferin is a natural glucosylxanthone extracted from mango fruits and leaves, which has anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties in experimental cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, we investigated the role and detailed mechanism of mangiferin in MI. We used ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery to establish an MI model in vivo, and cardiomyocyte-specific Sirt1 knockout mice were used to identify the mechanism of mangiferin. For in vitro studies, oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) was used to mimic ischaemia in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. In mice, mangiferin treatment increased Sirt1 expression after MI, significantly reduced the infarct area, and prevented MI-induced apoptosis and heart failure. Mangiferin reduced OGD-induced cellular apoptosis in H9c2 cells. Meanwhile, Sirt1 knockout/silencing abolished the protective effects of mangiferin. Further studies revealed that mangiferin increased FoxO3a deacetylation by up-regulating Sirt1, thus preventing apoptosis, and adenovirus-mediated constitutive acetylation of FoxO3a restricted the anti-apoptotic effects of mangiferin in vivo and in vitro. Our results indicate that mangiferin prevents cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the subsequent heart failure by activating the Sirt1/FoxO3a pathway in MI, and suggest that mangiferin may have an interesting potential in following studies towards clinical evaluation.