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Pourmousavi L, Asadi RH, Zehsaz F, Jadidi RP. Potential therapeutic effects of crocin. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6. [PMID: 38758225 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Crocin, a natural bioactive compound derived from saffron (Crocus sativus) and other Crocus genera, has gained significant attention recently due to its potential therapeutic properties. The multifaceted nature of crocin's biological effects has piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts, prompting further investigations into its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. This review article comprehensively explores the emerging evidence supporting crocin's role as a promising ally in protecting against metabolic disorders. The review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying crocin's beneficial effects and highlights its potential applications in preventing and treating diverse pathological conditions. Understanding the mechanisms through which crocin exerts its protective effects could advance scientific knowledge and offer potential avenues for developing novel therapeutic interventions. As we uncover the potential of crocin as a valuable ally in the fight against disorders, it becomes evident that nature's palette holds remarkable solutions for enhancing our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Pourmousavi
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Zehsaz
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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Saffron, Its Active Components, and Their Association with DNA and Histone Modification: A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163317. [PMID: 36014823 PMCID: PMC9414768 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intensive screening for better and safer medications to treat diseases such as cancer and inflammatory diseases continue, and some phytochemicals have been discovered to have anti-cancer and many therapeutical activities. Among the traditionally used spices, Crocus sativus (saffron) and its principal bioactive constituents have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive properties against multiple malignancies. Early reports have shown that the epigenetic profiles of healthy and tumor cells vary significantly in the context of different epigenetic factors. Multiple components, such as carotenoids as bioactive dietary phytochemicals, can directly or indirectly regulate epigenetic factors and alter gene expression profiles. Previous reports have shown the interaction between active saffron compounds with linker histone H1. Other reports have shown that high concentrations of saffron bind to the minor groove of calf thymus DNA, resulting in specific structural changes from B- to C-form of DNA. Moreover, the interaction of crocin G-quadruplex was reported. A recent in silico study has shown that residues of SIRT1 interact with saffron bio-active compounds and might enhance SIRT1 activation. Other reports have shown that the treatment of Saffron bio-active compounds increases γH2AX, decreases HDAC1 and phosphorylated histone H3 (p-H3). However, the question that still remains to be addressed how saffron triggers various epigenetic changes? Therefore, this review discusses the literature published till 2022 regarding saffron as dietary components and its impact on epigenetic mechanisms. Novel bioactive compounds such as saffron components that lead to epigenetic alterations might be a valuable strategy as an adjuvant therapeutic drug.
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Scuto M, Modafferi S, Rampulla F, Zimbone V, Tomasello M, Spano’ S, Ontario M, Palmeri A, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, Di Paola R, Cuzzocrea S, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Redox modulation of stress resilience by Crocus Sativus L. for potential neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory applications in brain disorders: From molecular basis to therapy. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 205:111686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Di Paolo M. Sequential PBM-Saffron Treatment in an Animal Model of Retinal Degeneration. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:1059. [PMID: 34684096 PMCID: PMC8538989 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57101059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Saffron treatment and photobiomodulation (PBM) are non-invasive therapeutic approaches able to mitigate and stabilize retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although different, these therapies partially match their modulated pattern of genes. Recent attempts to find an additive effect by coadministration of saffron and PBM have failed. Instead, in this study, a different protocol to increase neuroprotection by providing consecutive saffron and PBM treatment administration is suggested. Materials and Methods: Albino rats, whose retinal damage was caused by light exposure (LD, light damage), were subjected to differential treatment protocols before and after LD: (1) PBM followed by saffron; and (2) single treatments of PBM. Thinning of the photoreceptor layer and neuro-inflammatory markers for gliosis and microglia were assessed via immune-histochemical techniques. Results: Results confirm that PBM and saffron alone cope with retinal neurodegenerative processes, preserving retinal thickness and gliosis and microglia invasion in a differential way. However, the synergistic effect of the combined treatment was restricted to the early neuroinflammation, even when provided sequentially. Conclusion: The broad spectra of action of both neuroprotectants require further investigation to identify other key pathways helpful in enhancing the effects of these two approaches in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno, 6, 56121 Pisa, Italy;
- Interuniversity Consortium Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of l’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 1, 67100 l’Aquila, Italy
- Bio Aurum srl, Via Mangionello, 12, 73024 Maglie, Italy
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Phytochemicals as Regulators of Genes Involved in Synucleinopathies. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11050624. [PMID: 33922207 PMCID: PMC8145209 DOI: 10.3390/biom11050624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synucleinopathies are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of α-synuclein aggregates in neurons, nerve fibers or glial cells. Three main types of diseases belong to the synucleinopathies: Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy. All of them develop as a result of an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in the development of synucleinopathies. Since there is no disease-modifying treatment for these disorders at this time, interest is growing in plant-derived chemicals as a potential treatment option. Phytochemicals are substances of plant origin that possess biological activity, which might have effects on human health. Phytochemicals with neuroprotective activity target different elements in pathogenic pathways due to their antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, and ability to reduce cellular stress. Multiple recent studies demonstrate that the beneficial effects of phytochemicals may be explained by their ability to modulate the expression of genes implicated in synucleinopathies and other diseases. These substances may regulate transcription directly via transcription factors (TFs) or play the role of epigenetic regulators through their effect on histone modification, DNA methylation, and RNA-based mechanisms. Here, we summarize new data about the impact of phytochemicals on the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies through regulation of gene expression.
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Hill D, Compagnoni C, Cordeiro MF. Investigational neuroprotective compounds in clinical trials for retinal disease. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:571-577. [PMID: 33641585 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1896701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retinal neurodegeneration causes irreversible vision loss, impairing quality of life. By targeting neurotoxic conditions, such as oxidative stress and ischemia, neuroprotectants can slow or stop sight loss resulting from eye disease. Despite limimted clinical use of neuroprotectants, there are several promising compounds in early clinical trials (pre-phase III) which may fulfil new therapeutic roles. Search terms relating to neuroprotection and eye disease were used on ClinicalTrials.gov to identify neuroprotective candidates. AREAS COVERED Research supporting neuroprotection in eye diseases is focused on, ranging from preclinical to phase II, according to the ClinicalTrials.gov database. The compounds discussed are explored in terms of future clinical applications. EXPERT OPINION The major challenge in neuroprotection research is translation from basic research to the clinic. A number of potential neuroprotectants have progressed to ophthalmology clinical trials in recent years, with defined mechanisms of action - saffron and CoQ10 - targeting mitochondria, and both CNTF and NGF showing anti-apoptotic effects. Enhancements in trial design and patient cohorts in proof-of-concept trials with enriched patient populations and surrogate endpoints should accelerate drug development. A further important consideration is optimising drug delivery to improve individualised management and patient compliance. Progress in these areas means that neuroprotective strategies have a much improved chance of translational success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hill
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Chiara Compagnoni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London, UK
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Konno T, Melo EP, Chambers JE, Avezov E. Intracellular Sources of ROS/H 2O 2 in Health and Neurodegeneration: Spotlight on Endoplasmic Reticulum. Cells 2021; 10:233. [PMID: 33504070 PMCID: PMC7912550 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced continuously throughout the cell as products of various redox reactions. Yet these products function as important signal messengers, acting through oxidation of specific target factors. Whilst excess ROS production has the potential to induce oxidative stress, physiological roles of ROS are supported by a spatiotemporal equilibrium between ROS producers and scavengers such as antioxidative enzymes. In the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a non-radical ROS, is produced through the process of oxidative folding. Utilisation and dysregulation of H2O2, in particular that generated in the ER, affects not only cellular homeostasis but also the longevity of organisms. ROS dysregulation has been implicated in various pathologies including dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases, sanctioning a field of research that strives to better understand cell-intrinsic ROS production. Here we review the organelle-specific ROS-generating and consuming pathways, providing evidence that the ER is a major contributing source of potentially pathologic ROS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasuku Konno
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - Eduardo Pinho Melo
- CCMAR—Centro de Ciências do Mar, Campus de Gambelas, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal;
| | - Joseph E. Chambers
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK;
| | - Edward Avezov
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
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Li J, Long X, Hu J, Bi J, Zhou T, Guo X, Han C, Huang J, Wang T, Xiong N, Lin Z. Multiple pathways for natural product treatment of Parkinson's disease: A mini review. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 60:152954. [PMID: 31130327 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is established that natural medicines for Parkinson's disease (PD) provide an antioxidant activity in preventing dopaminergic neurons from degeneration. However, the underlying and related molecular details remain poorly understood. METHODS AND AIM We review published in vitro and rodent studies of natural products in PD models with the aim to identify common molecular pathways contributing to the treatment efficacy. Commonly regulated genes were identified through the systemic literature search and further analyzed from a network perspective. FINDINGS Approximately thirty different types of natural products have been investigated for their ability to regulate protein density and gene activity in various experimental systems. Most were found to attenuate neurotoxin-induced regulations. Three common PD pathways are involved. The most studied pathway was neuronal development/anti-apoptosis consisting of Bax/Bcl-2, caspases 3/9, and MAPK signaling. Another well studied was anti-inflammation comprising iNOS, nNOS, Nrf2/ARE, cytokines, TNFα, COX2 and MAPK signaling. The third pathway referred to dopamine transmission modulation with upregulated VMAT2, DAT, NURR1 and GDNF levels. To date, HIPK2, a conserved serine/threonine kinase and transcriptional target of Nrf2 in an anti-apoptosis signaling pathway, is the first protein identified as the direct binding target of a natural product (ZMHC). IMPLICATIONS Natural products may utilize multiple and intercellular pathways at various steps to prevent DA neurons from degeneration. Molecular delineation of the mechanisms of actions is revealing new, perhaps combinational therapeutic approaches to stop the progression of DA degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Li
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Xi Long
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Jichuan Hu
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, Hubei 430040, China
| | - Juan Bi
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, Hubei 430040, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, Hubei 430040, China
| | - Xingfang Guo
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Chao Han
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China; Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Jinsha Huang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Nian Xiong
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China; Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Dongxihu District, Wuhan, Hubei 430040, China.
| | - Zhicheng Lin
- Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurogenomics, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, United States.
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Ganeshan V, Skladnev NV, Kim JY, Mitrofanis J, Stone J, Johnstone DM. Pre-conditioning with Remote Photobiomodulation Modulates the Brain Transcriptome and Protects Against MPTP Insult in Mice. Neuroscience 2019; 400:85-97. [PMID: 30625333 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Transcranial photobiomodulation (PBM), which involves the application of low-intensity red to near-infrared light (600-1100 nm) to the head, provides neuroprotection in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases. However, the absorption of light energy by the human scalp and skull may limit the utility of transcranial PBM in clinical contexts. We have previously shown that targeting light at peripheral tissues (i.e. "remote PBM") also provides protection of the brain in an MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's disease, suggesting remote PBM might be a viable alternative strategy for overcoming penetration issues associated with transcranial PBM. This present study aimed to determine an effective pre-conditioning regimen of remote PBM for inducing neuroprotection and elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which remote PBM enhances the resilience of brain tissue. Balb/c mice were irradiated with 670-nm light (4 J/cm2 per day) targeting dorsum and hindlimbs for 2, 5 or 10 days, followed by injection of the parkinsonian neurotoxin MPTP (50 mg/kg) over two consecutive days. Despite no direct irradiation of the head, 10 days of pre-conditioning with remote PBM significantly attenuated MPTP-induced loss of midbrain tyrosine hydroxylase-positive dopaminergic cells and mitigated the increase in FOS-positive neurons in the caudate-putamen complex. Interrogation of the midbrain transcriptome by RNA microarray and pathway enrichment analysis suggested upregulation of cell signaling and migration (including CXCR4+ stem cell and adipocytokine signaling), oxidative stress response pathways and modulation of the blood-brain barrier following remote PBM. These findings establish remote PBM preconditioning as a viable neuroprotective intervention and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varshika Ganeshan
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Nicholas V Skladnev
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ji Yeon Kim
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - John Mitrofanis
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Anatomy & Histology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Jonathan Stone
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Daniel M Johnstone
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Skladnev NV, Johnstone DM. Neuroprotective properties of dietary saffron: more than just a chemical scavenger? Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:210-211. [PMID: 28400798 PMCID: PMC5361500 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.198976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas V Skladnev
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel M Johnstone
- Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Pajares M, Cuadrado A, Rojo AI. Modulation of proteostasis by transcription factor NRF2 and impact in neurodegenerative diseases. Redox Biol 2017; 11:543-553. [PMID: 28104575 PMCID: PMC5239825 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are linked to the accumulation of specific protein aggregates, suggesting an intimate connection between injured brain and loss of proteostasis. Proteostasis refers to all the processes by which cells control the abundance and folding of the proteome thanks to a wide network that integrates the regulation of signaling pathways, gene expression and protein degradation systems. This review attempts to summarize the most relevant findings about the transcriptional modulation of proteostasis exerted by the transcription factor NRF2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2). NRF2 has been classically considered as the master regulator of the antioxidant cell response, although it is currently emerging as a key component of the transduction machinery to maintain proteostasis. As we will discuss, NRF2 could be envisioned as a hub that compiles emergency signals derived from misfolded protein accumulation in order to build a coordinated and perdurable transcriptional response. This is achieved by functions of NRF2 related to the control of genes involved in the maintenance of the endoplasmic reticulum physiology, the proteasome and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pajares
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols UAM-CSIC, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Cuadrado
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols UAM-CSIC, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I Rojo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols UAM-CSIC, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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