Protection of SH-SY5Y neuronal cells from glutamate-induced apoptosis by 3,6'-disinapoyl sucrose, a bioactive compound isolated from Radix Polygala

Protective effect of Danshensu against neurotoxicity induced by monosodium glutamate in adult mice and their offspring

Excessive neuronal excitation by glutamate is a well-established cause of neurotoxicity, leading to severe impairment of brain function. Excitotoxicity is a key factor in numerous neurodegenerative conditions. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of Danshensu (DSS) against monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced neurotoxicity in adult mice and their offspring. We randomly divided one hundred 8-week-old Kunming mice (equal number of males and females) into a control group and an experimental group. The experimental group was further subdivided into various treatment groups, including MSG gavage treatment, bwbw DSS treatment group 1 (bwbw DSS treatment group 2, a drug control group, and a normal control group (receiving an equal volume of physiological saline for ten consecutive days). Additionally, another one hundred healthy 8-week-old Kunming mice were similarly divided into groups and treated. These mice were paired randomly (one male and one female) and pregnant females were housed separately to obtain offspring. Subsequently, we conducted histological and behavioral analyses on adult mice and their offspring. MSG treatment induced significant cellular edema and hippocampal damage in both the treated mice and their offspring. However, varying doses of DSS effectively counteracted the neurotoxic effects of MSG, with no adverse impact on brain tissue structure or neural function in either adult mice or their offspring. Behavioral experiments further confirmed that DSS exerted a substantial protective effect against MSG-induced impairment of learning and memory in the treated adult mice and their offspring, in addition to mitigating central nervous system overexcitation and inhibiting exploratory behavior. In conclusion, DSS exerts significant protective effects against MSG-induced neurotoxicity in both adult mice and their offspring.

Neurotrophic Natural Products

Neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF, NT3, NT4) can decrease cell death, induce differentiation, as well as sustain the structure and function of neurons, which make them promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. However, neurotrophins have not been very effective in clinical trials mostly because they cannot pass through the blood-brain barrier owing to being high-molecular-weight proteins. Thus, neurotrophin-mimic small molecules, which stimulate the synthesis of endogenous neurotrophins or enhance neurotrophic actions, may serve as promising alternatives to neurotrophins. Small-molecular-weight natural products, which have been used in dietary functional foods or in traditional medicines over the course of human history, have a great potential for the development of new therapeutic agents against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. In this contribution, a variety of natural products possessing neurotrophic properties such as neurogenesis, neurite outgrowth promotion (neuritogenesis), and neuroprotection are described, and a focus is made on the chemistry and biology of several neurotrophic natural products.

Mild internet use is associated with epigenetic alterations of key neurotransmission genes in salivary DNA of young university students

The potentially problematic use of the Internet is a growing concern worldwide, which causes and consequences are not completely understood yet. The neurobiology of Internet addiction (IA) has attracted much attention in scientific research, which is now focusing on identifying measurable biological markers. Aim of this study was to investigate epigenetic and genetic regulation of oxytocin receptor (OXTR), dopamine transporter (DAT1) and serotonin transporter (SERT) genes using DNA obtained from saliva samples of young university students: the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) was administered to evaluate the potential existence and intensity of IA. Significant changes in DNA methylation levels at OXTR, DAT1 and SERT genes were observed in the 30 < IAT < 49 group (mild-risk internet users) compared to the IAT < 29 subjects (complete control of internet use) and IAT > 50 subjects (considered as moderately addicted). Moreover, epigenetic markers were significantly correlated, either directly (for OXTR and DAT1) or inversely (OXTR and DAT1 versus SERT), to the psychometric properties. Our data confirmed the association of OXTR, DAT1 and SERT genes in processes related to behavioural addictions and might be of relevance to suggest possible biological predictors of altered behaviours and the eventual vulnerability to develop an IA. Different other genetic pathways have been suggested to play a role in IA and research is ongoing to better define them, in order to help in the early diagnosis as well as in the development of new potential treatments.

Effects of Solanum tuberosum L. ointment on second-degree burns in mice

Background and Aim

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is mainly characterized by its antioxidant and healing properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of an ointment based on S. tuberosum L. "papa tumbay" on burns induced in Balb/c mice (Mus musculus).

Materials and Methods

The experimental animals were divided into four groups (n = 5/group) 48 h before second-degree burns were inducted. After epilating the loin areas of the mice and anesthetizing them with ketamine/xylazine (80 mg/kg/10 mg/kg) through intraperitoneal (i.p.) route, a round metal rod (0.7 cm in diameter) was placed on the depilated skin at a temperature of 100°C for 5 s. Group I was not given any treatment, Group II was treated with silver sulfadiazine (1%), and the other two groups (III and IV) were treated with the ointment formulated based on S. tuberosum L. "papa tumbay" at 1% and 2%, respectively. After performing the treatment for 21 days, the mice were euthanized using i.p. sodium pentobarbital (185 mg/kg) to obtain skin samples. The samples were preserved in 10% neutral-buffered formalin and subjected to histopathological analysis.

Results

We found statistically significant differences in the histopathological sections between the groups (p < 0.05). The abundant collagen and fibroblasts observed in the direction of the dermis in Groups III and IV indicate that the phytoconstituents present in the potato might promote the healing of the second-degree burns until day 21 of treatment.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that the ointments based on the ethanolic extracts of S. tuberosum L. "papa tumbay," especially the 2% ointment, might accelerate the healing of second-degree burns induced in Balb/c mice.

Everolimus attenuates glutamate-induced PC12 cells death

BACKGROUND

Glutamate-induced neuronal cell death plays a key role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Some recent studies reported the potential immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties of inhibitors of serine-threonine kinase, mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin). However, no study was conducted about the neuroprotective potential of everolimus (EVR), a selective and potent mTOR inhibitor. Therefore, this study was planned to investigate whether EVR has protective effects against glutamate-induced toxicity in PC12 cells, which are used as model for neurons injury, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

PC12 cells were concurrently treated with glutamate (8 mM) and EVR (0-40 nM) for 24 h. Then, the cells viability, apoptosis rate, and apoptosis-related proteins (caspase-3, bax and bcl-2) were measured using MTT, annexin V/PI and immunoblotting assays.

RESULTS

Analyzing the protective effect of different concentrations of EVR (0-40 nM) against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity revealed a significant increase in cell viability in co-treatment regimen (p < 0.01). Also, EVR (40 nM) significantly (p < 0.01) inhibited glutamate-induced apoptosis through depressing the elevation of bax/bcl-2 ratio and expression of cleaved caspase-3, concentration depend.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated, for the first time, that EVR could protect against glutamate-mediated PC12 cell death via inhibiting apoptosis.

Diagnostic Performance of 60 MHz High-Definition Intravascular Ultrasound versus Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography for Identifying Plaque Rupture, Plaque Erosion, and Thrombosis in a Rabbit Model

Background

Most acute coronary syndromes occur due to coronary thrombosis caused by plaque rupture (PR) and plaque erosion (PE). Precise in vivo differentiation between PR and PE is challenging for intravascular imaging. This study is the first to determine the diagnostic performance of the novel 60 MHz high-definition intravascular ultrasound (HD-IVUS) for differentiating atherosclerotic plaque morphology influenced by local hemodynamic flow in rabbits. This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of 60 MHz HD-IVUS in identifying thrombosis in rabbits.

Methods

We established 60 rabbit models of atherosclerosis with left common carotid artery (LCCA) stenosis and 30 FeCl 3 -induced LCCA thrombosis. Intravascular imaging was assessed with 60 MHz HD-IVUS and fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT). The present study investigated the diagnostic accuracy of 60 MHz HD-IVUS for PR and PE, as well as thrombosis, using OCT-diagnosis as a standard reference.

Results

60 MHz HD-IVUS for identifying atherosclerotic plaque morphology using plaque cavity and minor intimal irregularities showed high sensitivity and specificity; 92.0 and 90.0% for identifying OCT-defined PR, and 80.0 and 70.0% for OCT-defined PE, respectively. In a rabbit thrombus model, 60 MHz HD-IVUS showed high sensitivity (88.0%) and specificity (80.0%) in identifying OCT-defined thrombosis.

Conclusions

60 MHz HD-IVUS can accurately identify PR and thrombosis. Further studies should confirm the clinical value of this novel technique in PE diagnosis.

Lutein Decreases Inflammation and Oxidative Stress and Prevents Iron Accumulation and Lipid Peroxidation at Glutamate-Induced Neurotoxicity

The xanthophyll carotenoid lutein has been widely used as supplementation due to its protective effects in light-induced oxidative stress. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features suggest that it has a neuroprotective role as well. Glutamate is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), which plays a key role in regulating brain function. Excess accumulation of intracellular glutamate accelerates an increase in the concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in neurons leading to glutamate neurotoxicity. In this study, we focused on the effects of glutamate on SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to identify the possible alterations in oxidative stress, inflammation, and iron metabolism that affect the neurological function itself and in the presence of antioxidant lutein. First, ROS measurements were performed, and then catalase (CAT) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity were determined by enzyme activity assay kits. The ELISA technique was used to detect proinflammatory TNFα, IL-6, and IL-8 cytokine secretions. Alterations in iron uptake, storage, and release were followed by gene expression measurements and Western blotting. Total iron level detections were performed by a ferrozine-based iron detection method, and a heme assay kit was used for heme measurements. The gene expression toward lipid-peroxidation was determined by RT-PCR. Our results show glutamate changes ROS, inflammation, and antioxidant enzyme activity, modulate iron accumulation, and may initiate lipid peroxidation in SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, lutein attenuates the glutamate-induced effects on ROS, inflammation, iron metabolism, and lipid peroxidation. According to our findings, lutein could be a beneficial, supportive treatment in neurodegenerative disorders.

Analysis of Medication Rule of Primary Epilepsy Based on Xiaocheng Yan’s Clinical Experience Collection of Epilepsy

Objective

To explore and analyze the medication rule of Professor Xiaocheng Yan in the treatment of primary epilepsy, hoping to provide reference for the clinical treatment of primary epilepsy.

Methods

Mining and analysis of Professor Xiaocheng Yan sorted out the medical cases of primary epilepsy in Xiaocheng Yan's clinical experience collection of epilepsy, extracted the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription data in the medical cases, standardized the obtained TCM prescription data, and used the data mining function integrated by the ancient and modern medical case cloud platform V2.3.5 to carry out frequency statistics, cluster analysis, association analysis, and complex network analysis on the TCM data, and the common herbs used by Professor Xiaocheng Yan in the treatment of primary epilepsy, properties and classifications of commonly used herbs, pairs of commonly used herbs, and core prescriptions were obtained.

Results

A total of 39 cases, 228 medical records, and 230 prescriptions data of TCM were included. A total of 96 Chinese medicinal herbs were involved, and the total frequency of medication was 3,828. High-frequency herbs include Rhizoma Gastrodiae (Tianma) (222 times), Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis (Gouteng) (220 times), Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii (Shichangpu) (216 times), Rhizoma Pinelliae Praeparatum (Fabanxia) (207 times), Bombyx Batryticatus (Jiangcan) (206 times), and Periostracum Cicadae (Chantui) (181 times). The main properties and flavors of commonly used Chinese medicinal herbs were sweet, bitter, and pungent, which were mainly attributed to the four meridians of liver, lung, heart, and spleen. Commonly used couplet herbs were {Periostracum Cicadae (Chantui)} ≥ {Bombyx Batryticatus (Jiangcan)}, {Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii (Shichangpu)} ≥{ Bombyx Batryticatus (Jiangcan)}, {Radix Bupleuri (Chaihu)} ≥ {Radix Scutellariae (Huangqin)}, {Rhizoma Gastrodiae (Tianma)} ≥ {Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis (Gouteng)}, {Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii (Shichangpu)} ≥ {Periostracum Cicadae (Chantui)}, {Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis (Gouteng)} ≥ {Bombyx Batryticatus (Jiangcan)}, {Bombyx Batryticatus (Jiangcan)} ≥ {Rhizoma Gastrodiae (Tianma)}, {Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii (Shichangpu)} ≥ {Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis (Gouteng)}, etc. The core prescription composition was based on the addition and subtraction of Tianma Gouteng decoction and Erchen decoction. The main pharmacological mechanisms of core prescriptions are mainly reflected in antioxidation, enhancing GABA efficacy, and regulating NMDA channel and sodium channel, neuroprotection, and so on.

Conclusion

Professor Xiaocheng Yan's medication for the treatment of primary epilepsy was based on the principle of relieving wind and spasm, drying dampness and resolving phlegm, giving consideration to both Qi and blood, and harmonizing liver, lung, heart, and spleen.

Canonical correlation analysis of factors that influence quality of life among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on QLICD-COPD (V2.0)

BACKGROUND

The Quality of Life Instrument for Chronic Diseases (QLICD)-COPD (V2.0) was designed to assess the health condition of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life (QOL) of patients, the influential clinical factors and the relationships between QOL and clinical objective indicators.

METHODS

Two hundred and sixty-one inpatients with COPD in the acute exacerbation stage were evaluated using the QLICD-COPD (V2.0) and data on clinical objective indicators were collected. The relationships between QOL and the clinical objective indicators were determined using canonical correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The standardised scores for the patients in four domains, namely, physical function, psychological function, social function and a disease-specific module, were 49.00±12.91, 59.89±13.51, 68.59±11.94 and 51.84±13.58, respectively. The total score for the QOL of patients was 57.17±10.26. Two pairs of canonical variables were statistically significant (r₁=0.35, p<0.0001; r₂=0.26, p<0.05). These variables accounted for 45.8% and 33.8% of the variance, respectively. The levels of total protein, albumin, serum sodium and alkaline phosphatase and the percentages of neutrophils and lymphocytes were correlated with the QOL, with correlation coefficients ranging from -0.435 to 0.675.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians should pay close attention to the levels of total protein, albumin, serum sodium and alkaline phosphatase and the percentages of neutrophils and lymphocytes to improve the QOL of patients.

Is L-Glutamate Toxic to Neurons and Thereby Contributes to Neuronal Loss and Neurodegeneration? A Systematic Review

L-glutamate (L-Glu) is a nonessential amino acid, but an extensively utilised excitatory neurotransmitter with critical roles in normal brain function. Aberrant accumulation of L-Glu has been linked to neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. To investigate this further, we systematically reviewed the literature to evaluate the effects of L-Glu on neuronal viability linked to the pathogenesis and/or progression of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). A search in PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Web of Science Core Collection was conducted to retrieve studies that investigated an association between L-Glu and pathology for five NDDs: Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD). Together, 4060 studies were identified, of which 71 met eligibility criteria. Despite several inadequacies, including small sample size, employment of supraphysiological concentrations, and a range of administration routes, it was concluded that exposure to L-Glu in vitro or in vivo has multiple pathogenic mechanisms that influence neuronal viability. These mechanisms include oxidative stress, reduced antioxidant defence, neuroinflammation, altered neurotransmitter levels, protein accumulations, excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, intracellular calcium level changes, and effects on neuronal histology, cognitive function, and animal behaviour. This implies that clinical and epidemiological studies are required to assess the potential neuronal harm arising from excessive intake of exogenous L-Glu.

N-Acetyldopamine Dimer Attenuates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis by Suppressing NF-κB and MAPK Pathways

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a major form of chronic inflammatory bowel disease of the colonic mucosa and exhibits progressive morbidity. There is still a substantial need of small molecules with greater efficacy and safety for UC treatment. Here, we report a N-acetyldopamine dimer (NADD) elucidated (2R,3S)-2-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl)-3-acetylamino-7-(N-acetyl-2″-aminoethyl)-1,4-benzodioxane, which is derived from traditional Chinese medicine Isaria cicadae, exhibits significant therapeutic efficacy against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC. Functionally, NADD treatment effectively relieves UC symptoms, including weight loss, colon length shortening, colonic tissue damage and expression of pro-inflammatory factors in pre-clinical models. Mechanistically, NADD treatment significantly inhibits the expression of genes in inflammation related NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways by transcriptome analysis and western blot, which indicates that NADD inhibits the inflammation in UC might through these two pathways. Overall, this study identifies an effective small molecule for UC therapy.

Identification of Chemical Components of Qi-Fu-Yin and Its Prototype Components and Metabolites in Rat Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid via UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

Qi-Fu-Yin, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD, a neurodegenerative disorder) in clinical setting. In this study, the chemical components of Qi-Fu-Yin and its prototype components and metabolites in rat plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, after oral administration, were preliminarily characterized via ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A total of 180 compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, organic acids, sucrose esters, oligosaccharide esters, phthalides, phenylethanoid glycosides, alkaloids, xanthones, terpene lactones, ionones, and iridoid glycoside, were tentatively characterized. For the first time, 51 prototypical components and 26 metabolites, including saponins, phthalides, flavonoids, sucrose esters, organic acids, alkaloids, ionones, terpene lactones, iridoid glycoside, and their derivatives, have been tentatively identified in the plasma. Furthermore, 10 prototypical components (including butylidenephthalide, butylphthalide, 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh₁, 20(R)-ginsenoside Rh₁, and zingibroside R₁) and 6 metabolites were preliminarily characterized in cerebrospinal fluid. These results were beneficial to the discovery of the active components of Qi-Fu-Yin anti-AD.

MSC Secretome as a Promising Tool for Neuroprotection and Neuroregeneration in a Model of Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are considered to be critical contributors to injured tissue repair and regeneration, and MSC-based therapeutic approaches have been applied to many peripheral and central neurologic disorders. It has been demonstrated that the beneficial effects of MSC are mainly mediated by the components of their secretome. In the current study, we have explored the neuroprotective potential of the MSC secretome in a rat model of intracerebral hemorrhage and shown that a 10-fold concentrated secretome of human MSC and its combination with the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) provided a better survival and neurological outcome of rats within 14 days of intracerebral hemorrhage compared to the negative (non-treated) and positive (BDNF) control groups. We found that it was due to the ability of MSC secretome to stimulate neuron survival under conditions of glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. However, the lesion volume did not shrink in these rats, and this also correlated with prominent microglia activation. We hypothesize that this could be caused by the species-specificity of the used MSC secretome and provide evidence to confirm this. Thus, we have found that allogenic rat MSC secretome was more effective than xenogenic human MSC secretome in the rat intracerebral hemorrhage model: it reduced the volume of the lesion and promoted excellent survival and neurological outcome of the treated rats.

Active constituent of Polygala tenuifolia attenuates cognitive deficits by rescuing hippocampal neurogenesis in APP/PS1 transgenic mice

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common dementia worldwide, and there is still no satisfactory drug or therapeutic strategy. Polygala tenuifolia is a traditional Chinese medicine with multiple neuroprotective effects. In present study, we investigated the effects of three active constituents [3,6'-disinapoyl sucrose (DISS), onjisaponin B (OB) and tenuifolin (TEN)] of Polygala tenuifolia (PT) on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) to identify the potential active constituent of PT promoting hippocampal neurogenesis.

METHODS

NSCs were isolated from hippocampi of newborn C57BL/6 mice, and transfected with mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene to establish an AD cell model (APP-NSCs). 3-(4,5- Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were performed, and the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs were assessed by neurosphere formation assay, 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay and immunofluorescence (IF) staining analysis. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were administrated with the potential active constituent DISS for 4 weeks. Morris water maze (MWM), Nissl staining assay and IF staining assays were carried out to evaluate the cognitive function, neural damages and hippocampal neurogenesis, respectively.

RESULTS

DISS exerted the optimal ability to strengthen APP-NSCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation, followed by OB and TEN. Furthermore, DISS treatment for 4 weeks strikingly rescued the cognitive deficits, neuronal injures, and neurogenesis disorder in adult APP/PS1 transgenic mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that DISS is the constituent of PT that triggers the most potent increase of hippocampal neurogenesis in our mouse model of AD.

Preclinical Evidence for the Pharmacological Actions of Glycyrrhizic Acid: A Comprehensive Review

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (Family: Fabaceae) is one of the important traditional medicinal plant used extensively in folk medicine. It is known for its ethnopharmacological value in curing a wide variety of ailments. Glycyrrhizin, an active compound of G. glabra, possesses anti-inflammatory activity due to which it is mostly used in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment and management of chronic diseases. The present review is focused extensively on the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and potential effects of Glycyrrhizic Acid (GA). A thorough literature survey was conducted to identify various studies that reported on the GA on PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar.

Mito-Tempo suppresses autophagic flux via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells

The generation of excessive mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) is associated with glutamate-stimulated neurotoxicity and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Impaired mitochondrial function is accompanied with oxidative stress that is a significant contributor to initiate autophagy, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of Mito-Tempo on glutamate-induced neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell toxicity. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with 100 μM glutamate in the presence or absence of 50 and 100 μM Mito-Tempo for 24 h. Changes in cell viability were measured by MTT assay. Cytotoxicity and intracellular ROS accumulation were also evaluated using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity assay and 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) Reactive Oxygen Species Assay kit, respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed by tetraethylbenzimidazoly-lcarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining. Expression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and autophagy markers, including LC3 (LC3-I/-II) and p62 (SQSTM1) were performed using Western blot analysis. Our results demonstrated that glutamate-exposed cells significantly increased cellular oxidative stress by enhancing ROS production. Glutamate treatment also increased LDH release follows the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, caused cell viability loss. Treatment with Mito-Tempo not only attenuated the generation of ROS and improved mitochondrial membrane potential but also reduced the neurotoxicity of glutamate in a concentration-dependent manner, which leads to increased cell viability and decreased LDH release. Mito-Tempo has a greater protective effect by enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and PI3K/AKT/mTOR phosphorylation. Moreover, Mito-Tempo treatment altered the autophagy process resulting in the decline in the ratio of the autophagy markers LC3-I/-II and p62 (SQSTM1). We propose that Mito-Tempo can improve neuronal properties against glutamate cytotoxicity through its direct free radical scavenging activity and inhibit excessive autophagy signaling pathway, therefore, allow for further studies to investigate the therapeutic potentials of Mito-Tempo in animal disease models and human.

Comprehensive Quality Assessment of Kaixin Powder by HPLC-DAD Quantification and HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS Confirmation

Kaixin Powder (KXP) is a classic formula for treating morbid forgetfulness in ancient China. To guarantee the efficacy and safety of KXP, a simple and accurate HPLC-DAD method has been established and validated for the quantitative analysis of seven bioactive compounds in KXP. Dehydrotumulosic acid (DTU) and dehydrotrametenolic acid (DTR) were quantified in KXP for the first time. Good chromatographic separation was conducted on a Kromasil 100-5 C₁₈ column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) by gradient elution using mobile phases containing acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution at different detection wavelengths. The calibration curves of each compound showed good linearity (r ≥ 0.9990), and the LOD and LOQ were in the ranges of 0.01-0.10 and 0.03-0.40 μg/mL, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of intra-day and inter-day precisions were in the ranges of 0.45-1.74% and 0.56-2.32%, respectively. All recoveries were in the range of 93.6-105.5% with an RSD no more than 2.77%. These quantification results of seven compounds determined in the samples were further confirmed by HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. This study provides a useful and simple method for analyzing the major bioactive compounds and improves the quality assessment research of KXP.

Protective effects of peptide FK18 against neuro-excitotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells

Excitotoxic neuronal injury is associated with numerous acute and chronic neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma. Neuroprotection is a direct and effective therapeutic approach, with small-molecule bioactive peptides displaying certain advantages, including high membrane permeability, low immunogenicity and convenient synthesis and modification. FK18 is a novel peptide derived from basic fibroblast growth factor, which is a protein with neuroprotective effects. The present study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of FK18 against excitotoxic injury. For this purpose, cell viability was determined by the MTS assay, cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry and the TUNEL assay; expression of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2, proapoptotic protein Bax and caspase-3 as well as the phosphorylation of Akt and Erk was estimated by western blotting. The results of the present study demonstrated that FK18 effectively increased the viability of, and attenuated glutamate-induced apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, FK18 significantly increased Akt phosphorylation and decreased Erk phosphorylation in SH-SY5Y cells. FK18 also increased the Bcl-2/Bax ratio and decreased the level of cleaved-caspase-3 in SY5Y cells, which was reversed by the Akt pathway inhibitor LY294002, but not by the Erk pathway inhibitor U0126. The findings of the present study suggested that FK18 may be a promising therapeutic agent for the inhibition of neuronal cell death in multiple neurological diseases involving excitotoxicity.

In Vitro Effects of St. John's Wort Extract Against Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress and in the Phagocytic and Migratory Activity of Mouse SIM-A9 Microglia

Introduction: Herbal medicinal plants as Hypericum perforatum L., known as St. John’s wort (SJW) have been in use for a long time. SJW that is specifically used for the treatment of depressive disorders. Inflammatory cytokines derived from microglia play an important role in the regulation of the synthesis and reuptake of glutamate and influence synaptic function, morphology and neuronal plasticity. The present study was performed to investigate, whether STW3-VI, a special SJW extract has protective effects on mouse SIM-A9 microglia against cytotoxic and proinflammatory effects of ROS, glutamate, NMDA or cortisol. Additionally, we investigated the effects of SJW on migratory and phagocytic properties of microglia.

Results: Pre-treatment (48 h) of microglia with STW3-VI (5 or 10 μg/ml)—in contrast to desipramine—inhibited the H₂O₂-induced TNF-α release by 20–40%. Pre-treatment (48 h) of microglia with STW3-VI (5 or 10 μg/ml) delayed the 3 or 4 mM H₂O₂-induced intracellular ROS level by 26.9 and 44.4%, respectively. Furthermore, pre-treatment (48 h) of microglia with STW3-VI (5 μg/ml) - in contrast to desipramine - lowered the glutamate-induced cytotoxicity by 13.2%. Besides, pre-treatment (48 h) of microglia with STW3-VI (5 or 10 μg/ml) or desipramine (5 µM) inhibited the NMDA-induced decrease of the viability by 16.5–28.8% or 12%, respectively. Finally, pre-treatment (48 h) of microglia with STW3-VI (5 or 10 μg/ml)—in contrast to desipramine - reduced the cortisol-induced cytotoxicity by 15.5 and 12.9%. Treatment of microglia with STW3-VI (10 or 100 μg/ml) increased the migratory and the phagocytic capacities by 100 and 40%.

Conclusion: Our data provide evidence that STW3-VI—in contrast to desipramine - protects microglia from oxidative stress, NMDA- or glutamate-induced cytotoxicity, and has anti-inflammatory properties that are accompanied by improvement of their migratory and phagocytic capacity. These protective (particularly the anti-inflammatory) properties may be beneficial in the treatment of depressive disorders.

Comparative plastomic analysis and insights into the phylogeny of Salvia (Lamiaceae)

Salvia is the largest genus of Lamiaceae, with almost 1000 species, and has been divided into 11 subgenera. Salvia subg. Glutinaria, native to East Asia, is particularly important because of its potential medicinal value. However, the interspecific relationships of this subgenus have not been resolved and the plastomes of Salvia have rarely been studied. In the current study, we compared plastid genome structure and organization of 19 species of Salvia (14 newly sequenced and 5 previously published). Our comparative analysis showed that all Salvia plastomes examined have a quadripartite structure typical of most angiosperms and contain an identical set of 114 unique genes (80 protein-coding genes, 4 rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes). The plastome structure of all Salvia species is highly conserved like other Lamiaceae plastomes. Gene content, gene order, and GC content were highly similar in these plastomes. The inverted repeats/single copy region (IR/SC) boundaries of Salvia are highly conserved, and IR contraction only occurred in two species (Salvia mekongensis and S. rosmarinus). In Salvia, sequence divergence was higher in non-coding regions than in coding regions. We found that using large single copy (LSC) and small single copy regions (SSC) with exclusion of the rapidly evolving sites produced the highest resolution in phylogenetic analysis of Salvia, suggesting that using suitable informative sites to build trees is more conducive in phylogenetic research. This study assembled a powerful matrix data set for studying the phylogeny of Salvia, resolving the interspecific relationship of Salvia subg. Glutinaria. The newly sequenced plastid genomes will also enrich the plastome database of Salvia, providing the scientific basis for the development and utilization of germplasm resources of this large and important genus.

Involvement of 5-HT-BDNF signaling axis in mediating synergistic antidepressant-like effects after combined administration of two oligosaccharide esters

Potential mechanisms of depression involving herbal medicines and their specific compounds include elevated 5-HT level and downstream BDNF pathway. To identify potentially new combined therapeutic strategies, 3,6'-disinapoylsucrose (DISS) and tenuifoliside A (TFSA) have been observed to show antidepressant-like effects and its related 5-HT-BDNF pathway. We have tried to investigate whether combined administration of DISS and TFSA exerted more effective in the treatment of depression, as assessed through tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST). In addition, we also analyzed the expression of three important proteins, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding (CREB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and cAMP-regulated transcriptional coactivators (CRTC1), which have been shown to be involved in the regulation of the neurotrophic factors in the hippocampus. The DISS and TFSA separately, both at a dose of 5 mg/kg each, displayed small effect in the immobility time. However, combined treatment of these two in multiple doses exhibited better effect. Moreover, combined treatment of DISS and TFSA also demonstrated enhanced levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and stronger increase in the phosphorylation levels of CREB, BDNF, and CRTC1 proteins in the hippocampus. Overall, our results indicated that coadministration of these two oligosaccharide esters at low dose may induce more pronounced antidepressant activity, in comparison with individual treatment even at high dosage. Thus, the antidepressant properties of both these compounds can be attributed to their ability to influence 5-HT and BDNF pathway, and thereby suggesting that this combination strategy can definitely act as alternative therapy for depression disorder with very limited side effects.

Cytokinin Plant Hormones Have Neuroprotective Activity in In Vitro Models of Parkinson's Disease

Cytokinins are adenine-based phytohormones that regulate key processes in plants, such as cell division and differentiation, root and shoot growth, apical dominance, branching, and seed germination. In preliminary studies, they have also shown protective activities against human neurodegenerative diseases. To extend knowledge of the protection (protective activity) they offer, we investigated activities of natural cytokinins against salsolinol (SAL)-induced toxicity (a Parkinson's disease model) and glutamate (Glu)-induced death of neuron-like dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells. We found that kinetin-3-glucoside, cis-zeatin riboside, and N6-isopentenyladenosine were active in the SAL-induced PD model. In addition, trans-, cis-zeatin, and kinetin along with the iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) and the necroptosis inhibitor necrostatin 1 (NEC-1) significantly reduced cell death rates in the Glu-induced model. Lactate dehydrogenase assays revealed that the cytokinins provided lower neuroprotective activity than DFO and NEC-1. Moreover, they reduced apoptotic caspase-3/7 activities less strongly than DFO. However, the cytokinins had very similar effects to DFO and NEC-1 on superoxide radical production. Overall, they showed protective activity in the SAL-induced model of parkinsonian neuronal cell death and Glu-induced model of oxidative damage mainly by reduction of oxidative stress.

Identification of protein targets for the antidepressant effects of Kai-Xin-San in Chinese medicine using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation

Kai-Xin-San consists of Ginseng Radix, Polygalae Radix, Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma, and Poria at a ratio of 3:3:2:2. Kai-Xin-San has been widely used for the treatment of emotional disorders in China. However, no studies have identified the key proteins implicated in response to Kai-Xin-San treatment. In this study, rat models of chronic mild stress were established using different stress methods over 28 days. After 14 days of stress stimulation, rats received daily intragastric administrations of 600 mg/kg Kai-Xin-San. The sucrose preference test was used to determine depression-like behavior in rats, while isobaric tags were used for relative and absolute quantitation-based proteomics to identify altered proteins following Kai-Xin-San treatment. Kai-Xin-San treatment for 2 weeks noticeably improved depression-like behaviors in rats with chronic mild stress. We identified 33 differentially expressed proteins: 7 were upregulated and 26 were downregulated. Functional analysis showed that these differentially expressed proteins participate in synaptic plasticity, neurodevelopment, and neurogenesis. Our results indicate that Kai-Xin-San has an important role in regulating the key node proteins in the synaptic signaling network, and are helpful to better understand the mechanism of the antidepressive effects of Kai-Xin-San and to provide objective theoretical support for its clinical application. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee for Animal Research from the Chinese PLA General Hospital (approval No. X5-2016-07) on March 5, 2016.

Neuroprotective effects of Scrophularia buergeriana extract against glutamate-induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells

The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities, as well as the underlying mechanisms of action, of Scrophularia buergeriana (S. buergeriana) extract (SBE) in glutamate-induced SH-SY5Y cell death. The roots of S. buergeriana were extracted with 70% ethanol, and standardized SBE was used in this study. To induce cytotoxicity, the SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to glutamate for 3 h, or pre-treated with SBE for 1 h, and subsequently incubated with glutamate for 3 h. The neuro-protective effects were assessed by measuring cell viability and the total glutathione contents using commercial kits. The antioxidant and anti-apoptotic mechanisms of action of SBE were evaluated by western blot analysis. The results confirmed that glutamate-induced toxicity was caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to oxidative stress and DNA damage, thus leading to cell death. However, treatment of the SH-SY5Y cells with SBE significantly increased the viability of the cells exposed to glutamate by upregulating the levels of antioxidant proteins, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD)1, SOD2 and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1), and directly enhancing the total glutathione contents. Furthermore, SBE attenuated DNA impairment and decreased B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein (Bax), cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved poly(adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activation. In addition, SBE upregulated Bcl-2 expression via p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). On the whole, the findings of this study demonstrated that SBE exerts neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced cell toxicity through its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities.

Illumination on "Reserving Phloem and Discarding Xylem" and Quality Evaluation of Radix polygalae by Determining Oligosaccharide Esters, Saponins, and Xanthones

The root of Polygala tenuifolia Willd. or Polygala sibirica L. exhibits protective effects on the central nervous system and is frequently used to treat insomnia, amnesia, and other cognitive dysfunction. In our study, we studied nine bioactive compounds spanning oligosaccharide esters, saponins, and xanthones by using a sensitive, efficient, and validated method established on ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. The quantified result of interesting compounds proved that accumulation of those compounds were found in phloem rather than in xylem. By taking the standardized result of nine compound contents into account, the “Spider-web” analytical result of xylem and phloem from Radix polygalae (RP) unveiled the rationality of RP’s classical use in clinic including discarding the xylem and reserving the phloem. Moreover, the remarkable variation was also revealed from the quantitative result of 45 samples with different diameters from the different origins, which did not significantly correlate with the variation of RP’s diameter. Our study could shed the light on the quality assessment of RP for further research and illustrate the scientific connotation of the processing method of “discarding the xylem and reserving the phloem”.

Neurotrophic, Cytoprotective, and Anti-inflammatory Effects of St. John's Wort Extract on Differentiated Mouse Hippocampal HT-22 Neurons

Introduction: Since ancient times Hypericum perforatum L. named St. John's wort (SJW), has been used in the management of a wide range of applications, including nervous disorders. Development of mood disorders are due to alterations in glutamate metabolism, initiation of inflammatory pathways, and changes of the neuronal plasticity. Previous studies suggest that the glutamatergic system contributes to the pathophysiology of depression. Extracts of SJW have been recommended for the treatment of depression. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the action of STW3-VI, a special SJW extract in differentiated mouse hippocampal HT-22 neurons. We evaluated the stimulation of neurogenesis, the protective effect against glutamate or N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor induced-excitotoxicity and its anti-inflammatory properties in LPS-activated human macrophages. Results: After 48 h treatment, STW3-VI stimulated the neurite formation by 25% in comparison with the control and showed protective effects against glutamate- or NMDA-induced cytotoxicity by significantly increasing the viability about +25 or +50%. In conjunction with these effects, after pretreatment with STW3-VI, the intracellular reduced glutathione content was significantly 2.3-fold increased compared with the neurons incubated with glutamate alone. Additionally, pre-treatment of human macrophages with STW3-VI showed anti-inflammatory effects after 24 or 48 h concerning inhibition of LPS-induced TNF release by -47.3 and -53.8% (24 h) or -25.0 to -64.8% (48 h). Conclusions: Our data provide new evidence that STW3-VI protects hippocampal cells from NMDA- or glutamate-induced cytotoxicity. Moreover, our results indicate a morphological remodeling by increasing neurite outgrowth and activation of the anti-inflammatory defense by inhibition of the cytokine production in human macrophages after STW3-VI treatment. These protective, neurotrophic and anti-inflammatory properties may be beneficial in the treatment of depressive disorders.

Inhibition of mitochondrial 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase impairs viability of cancer cells in a cell-specific metabolism-dependent manner

2-Oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (OGDH) of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is often implied to be inactive in cancer, but this was not experimentally tested. We addressed the question through specific inhibition of OGDH by succinyl phosphonate (SP). SP action on different cancer cells was investigated using indicators of cellular viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS), metabolic profiling and transcriptomics. Relative sensitivity of various cancer cells to SP changed with increasing SP exposure and could differ in the ATP- and NAD(P)H-based assays. Glioblastoma responses to SP revealed metabolic sub-types increasing or decreasing cellular ATP/NAD(P)H ratio under OGDH inhibition. Cancer cell homeostasis was perturbed also when viability indicators were SP-resistant, e.g. in U87 and N2A cells. The transcriptomics database analysis showed that the SP-sensitive cells, such as A549 and T98G, exhibit the lowest expression of OGDH compared to other TCA cycle enzymes, associated with higher expression of affiliated pathways utilizing 2-oxoglutarate. Metabolic profiling confirmed the dependence of cellular SP reactivity on cell-specific expression of the pathways. Thus, oxidative decarboxylation of 2-oxoglutarate is significant for the interdependent homeostasis of NAD(P)H, ATP, ROS and key metabolites in various cancer cells. Assessment of cell-specific responses to OGDH inhibition is of diagnostic value for anticancer strategies.

Rhopalurus junceus scorpion venom induces apoptosis in the triple negative human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231

Rhopalurus junceus scorpion venom has demonstrated high cytotoxic activity in epithelial cancer cells. In the present study, the effect of scorpion venom on cell viability and apoptosis was evaluated in the MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cell line. Cell viability was analyzed using MTT assay. The cell death event was examined trough end-point RT-PCR to identify the expression of apoptosis-related genes, fluorescent microscopy and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) alteration. The results demonstrated that scorpion venom induced apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells in a time-dependent manner. Besides, scorpion venom treatment also resulted in p53, bax, noxa, puma, caspase 3 and p21 over-expression, while the expression of bcl-2 and bcl-xl was down-regulated. Apoptosis was associated with depolarization of ΔΨm. The overall effect indicates that the selective cytotoxic effect of the scorpion venom is associated with its apoptosis-inducing effect through the mitochondrial pathway. Therefore, R. junceus scorpion venom may be an interesting natural extract for further investigation in breast cancer treatment strategies.

CBX Chromodomain Inhibition Enhances Chemotherapy Response in Glioblastoma Multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) lacks effective therapeutic options leaving patients with a survival time of approximately one year. Recently, the alteration of chromatin modulators has been implicated in the pathogenesis and chemoresistance of numerous cancers; in particular, the Polycomb Group Proteins have been shown to play a role in glioblastoma progression and maintenance [1-5]. In this study, we aimed to identify drug combinations that decrease GBM cell viability by combining small molecule inhibitors against the Polycomb family with two standard chemotherapies. We identified dual inhibition of the CBX chromodomain with doxorubicin as a novel therapeutic strategy. While treatment with chromodomain inhibitor is non-toxic to cells alone, it dramatically increased the toxicity of standard chemotherapy drugs. We further validated an increase in DNA damage resulting in a G2/M block and subsequent apoptosis using the dual inhibitor treatment.

Synergistic Neuroprotective Effects of Two Herbal Ingredients via CREB-Dependent Pathway

As two natural oligosaccharide esters, 3,6’-Disinapoyl sucrose (DISS) and tenuifolisideA (TFSA) are originating from the root of Polygala tenuifolia Willd, a traditional Chinese medicine used in treatment of mental disorders. Previous reports have shown that both of them possess in vitro neuroprotective effects by stimulating different upstream pathways related with cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB). In the present study, we investigated the additive neuroprotective effects of DISS and TFSA on Glu-induced damage of SY5Y cells and purposed the possible underlying mechanism. The interaction between DISS and TFSA showed a clear-cut synergistic effect as evidenced by combination index (CI). Additional evidence from biochemical (NOS activity) assays confirmed their additive inhibition on the Glu-induced NOS hyperactivation. Moreover, we showed that co-treatment of DISS and TFSA resulted in an additively up-regulated phosphorylation of CREB as well as increased expressions of CRTC1 and BDNF. Neuroprotective effects of DISS and TFSA on Glu-induced decrease in cell viability were blocked by MAPK/ERK1/2 inhibitor (U0126) and PI3-K inhibitor (LY290042). Nevertheless, the CRTC1 or BDNF expression induced by these two compounds was significantly reduced in the presence of either ERK or PI3-K inhibitor, indicating that the two oligosaccharide esters shared some common pathways in the regulation of CREB-BDNF pathway. Taken together, we, for the first time, showed that DISS and TFSA exerted the additive neuroprotective effects on CREB-BDNF signaling pathway through complementary mechanisms.

Counter ions and constituents combination affect DODAX : MO nanocarriers toxicity in vitro and in vivo

Liposomes have received extensive attention as nanocarriers for bioactive compounds due to their good biocompatibility, possibility of targeting and incorporation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds. Although generally considered as safe, detailed knowledge of the effects induced in cells and tissues with which they interact is still underexplored. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the toxicity profile of dioctadecyldimethylammonium (DODAX) : monoolein(MO) liposomes (X is bromide or chloride), previously validated for gene therapy, by evaluating the effect of the counter ions Br- or Cl-, and of the cationic : neutral lipid molar fraction, both in vitro and in vivo. Effects on cellular metabolism and proliferation, plasma membrane integrity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial membrane potential dysfunction and ability to trigger apoptosis and necrosis were evaluated in a dose-/time-dependent manner in normal human skin fibroblasts. Also, newly fertilized zebrafish zygotes were exposed to liposomes, permitting a fast-track evaluation of the morphophysiological modifications. In vitro data showed that only very high doses of DODAX : MO induce apoptosis and necrosis, inhibit cell proliferation, and affect the metabolism and plasma membrane integrity of fibroblasts in a dose-/time-dependent manner. Furthermore, liposomes affected mitochondrial function, increasing ROS accumulation and disturbing mitochondrial membrane potential. DODAC-based liposomes were consistently more toxic when compared to DODAB-based formulations; furthermore, the inclusion of MO was found to reduce toxicity, in contrast to liposomes with cationic DODAX only, especially in DODAB : MO (1 : 2) nanocarriers. These results were corroborated, in a holistic approach, by cytotoxicity profiling in five additional human cell lines, and also with the zebrafish embryotoxicity testing, which constitutes a sensitive and informative tool and accurately extends cell-based assays.

In vitro and in silico studies of the inhibitory effects of some novel kojic acid derivatives on tyrosinase enzyme

OBJECTIVES

Tyrosinase is a key enzyme in pigment synthesis. Overproduction of melanin in parts of the skin results in hyperpigmentation diseases. This enzyme is also responsible for the enzymatic browning in fruits and vegetables. Thus, its inhibitors are of great importance in the medical, cosmetic and agricultural fields.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A series of twelve kojic acid derivatives were designed to be evaluated as tyrosinase activity inhibitors. The potential inhibitory activity of these compounds was investigated in silico using molecular docking simulation method. Four compounds with a range of predicted tyrosinase inhibitory activities were prepared and their inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity was evaluated. The antioxidant properties of these compounds were also investigated by in vitro DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays.

RESULTS

Compound IIId exhibited the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.216 ± 0.009 mM which was in accordance with the in silico ΔGbind results (-13.24 Kcal/mol).

CONCLUSION

Based on the docking studies, from the twelve compounds studied, one (IIId) appeared to have the highest inhibition on tyrosinase activity. This was confirmed by enzyme activity measurements. Compound IIId has an NO2 group which binds to both of Cu(2+) ions located inside the active site of the enzyme. This compound appeared to be even stronger than kojic acid in inhibiting tyrosinase activity. The DPPH free radical scavenging ability of all the studied compounds was more than that of BHT. However, they were not as strong as BHT or gallic acid in scavenging hydrogen peroxide.

Histopathological effects of silver and copper nanoparticles on the epidermis, gills, and liver of Siberian sturgeon

The influence of nanoparticles (NPs) on aquatic environments is still poorly documented. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of silver (AgNPs) and copper (CuNPs) nanoparticles on larval Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) after 21 days of exposure. Acute toxicity of AgNPs on Siberian sturgeon was investigated in a 96-h static renewal study and compared with the toxicity of CuNPs. The AgNPs and CuNPs 96 h mean lethal concentrations (96 h LC50) were 15.03 ± 2.91 and 1.41 ± 0.24 mg L(-1), respectively. Toxicity tests were done in triplicates for each concentration of AgNPs 0.1, 0.5, 1.5 mg L(-1) and CuNPs 0.01, 0.05, 0.15 mg L(-1). The control group was exposed in freshwater. The results indicate that AgNPs and CuNPs exposure negatively influenced survival; body length and mass; and morphology and physiology of the epidermis, gills, and liver of Siberian sturgeon larvae. Fish exposed to AgNPs and CuNPs showed similar pathological changes: irregular structure and pyknotic nuclei of epidermis, aplasia and/or fusion of lamellae, telangiectasis, epithelial necrosis and lifting of the gills, dilation of sinusoidal space, overfilled blood vessels, and pyknotic nuclei of the liver. Fish exposed to CuNPs only demonstrated hyaline degeneration in the gills epithelium and liver. The study shows that CuNPs were more toxic to Siberian sturgeon larvae than AgNPs.

Effect of Malva sylvestris cream on burn injury and wounds in rats

OBJECTIVES

Burn injury is one of the most health-threatening problems in the world. Malva sylvestris (M. sylvestris) flowers have a high mucilage content and are used as a remedy for cut wound and dermal infected wounds in Iranian folklore Medicine. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of M. sylvestris cream on the second degree burn injury in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five groups of 10 rats per group were burned with hot metal plate. Animals were administrated divided as control, normal saline, standard silver sulfadiazine 1% (SSD), 5% M. sylvestris, and 10% M. sylvestris into separate groups. Wound area, percentage of wound contraction, and histological and bacteriological assessments were evaluated.

RESULTS

Wound sizes were not significantly different among groups on 1(st) and 3(rd) days after burn injury, while they were significantly different among groups after 7(th) day post-burn injury. The average areas of wounds on the 15(th) day were 7.5±2.9, 6.7±2, 10.5±1.6, 4.7±2, and 4.5±2 cm(2) for base cream, normal saline, SSD, 5% M. sylvestris, and 10% M. sylvestris, respectively. The results of histology exhibited well-formed horizontally-oriented collagen fibers in MS topical treatment groups. Microorganisms existed in the SSD group were most probably Staphilococcus epidermitis and for NS group were staphylococcus saprophiteccus.

CONCLUSION

M. sylvestris cream improved histological changes of tissue components in the process of healing when compared with SSD cream. Therefore, it can be used as a topical treatment agent for burn wound.

Curcumin Protects Neurons from Glutamate-Induced Excitotoxicity by Membrane Anchored AKAP79-PKA Interaction Network

Now stimulation of AMPA receptor as well as its downstream pathways is considered as potential central mediators in antidepressant mechanisms. As a signal integrator which binds to AMPA receptor, A-kinase anchoring protein 79-(AKAP79-) PKA complex is regarded as a potential drug target to exert neuroprotective effects. A well-tolerated and multitarget drug curcumin has been confirmed to exert antidepressant-like effects. To explore whether AKAP79-PKA complex is involved in curcumin-mediated antiexcitotoxicity, we detected calcium signaling, subcellular location of AKAP79-PKA complex, phosphorylation of glutamate receptor, and ERK and AKT cascades. In this study, we found that curcumin protected neurons from glutamate insult by reducing Ca²⁺ influx and blocking the translocation of AKAP79 from cytomembrane to cytoplasm. In parallel, curcumin enhanced the phosphorylation of AMPA receptor and its downstream pathways in PKA-dependent manner. If we pretreated cells with PKA anchoring inhibitor Ht31 to disassociate PKA from AKAP79, no neuroprotective effects were observed. In conclusion, our results show that AKAP79-anchored PKA facilitated the signal relay from AMPA receptor to AKT and ERK cascades, which may be crucial for curcumin-mediated antiexcitotoxicity.

Researching glutamate - induced cytotoxicity in different cell lines: a comparative/collective analysis/study

Although glutamate is one of the most important excitatory neurotransmitters of the central nervous system, its excessive extracellular concentration leads to uncontrolled continuous depolarization of neurons, a toxic process called, excitotoxicity. In excitotoxicity glutamate triggers the rise of intracellular Ca²⁺ levels, followed by up regulation of nNOS, dysfunction of mitochondria, ROS production, ER stress, and release of lysosomal enzymes. Excessive calcium concentration is the key mediator of glutamate toxicity through over activation of ionotropic and metabotropic receptors. In addition, glutamate accumulation can also inhibit cystine (CySS) uptake by reversing the action of the CySS/glutamate antiporter. Reversal of the antiporter action reinforces the aforementioned events by depleting neurons of cysteine and eventually glutathione’s reducing potential. Various cell lines have been employed in the pursuit to understand the mechanism(s) by which excitotoxicity affects the cells leading them ultimately to their demise. In some cell lines glutamate toxicity is exerted mainly through over activation of NMDA, AMPA, or kainate receptors whereas in other cell lines lacking such receptors, the toxicity is due to glutamate induced oxidative stress. However, in the greatest majority of the cell lines ionotropic glutamate receptors are present, co-existing to CySS/glutamate antiporters and metabotropic glutamate receptors, supporting the assumption that excitotoxicity effect in these cells is accumulative. Different cell lines differ in their responses when exposed to glutamate. In this review article the responses of PC12, SH-SY5Y, HT-22, NT-2, OLCs, C6, primary rat cortical neurons, RGC-5, and SCN2.2 cell systems are systematically collected and analyzed.

An update on oligosaccharides and their esters from traditional chinese medicines: chemical structures and biological activities

A great number of naturally occurring oligosaccharides and oligosaccharide esters have been isolated from traditional Chinese medicinal plants, which are used widely in Asia and show prominent curative effects in the prevention and treatment of kinds of diseases. Numerous in vitro and in vivo experiments have revealed that oligosaccharides and their esters exhibited various activities, including antioxidant, antidepressant, cytotoxic, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cerebral protective, antidiabetic, plant growth-regulatory, and immunopotentiating activities. This review summarizes the investigations on the distribution, chemical structures, and bioactivities of natural oligosaccharides and their esters from traditional Chinese medicines between 2003 and 2013.

Ion Torrent sequencing as a tool for mutation discovery in the flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genome

BACKGROUND

Detection of induced mutations is valuable for inferring gene function and for developing novel germplasm for crop improvement. Many reverse genetics approaches have been developed to identify mutations in genes of interest within a mutagenized population, including some approaches that rely on next-generation sequencing (e.g. exome capture, whole genome resequencing). As an alternative to these genome or exome-scale methods, we sought to develop a scalable and efficient method for detection of induced mutations that could be applied to a small number of target genes, using Ion Torrent technology. We developed this method in flax (Linum usitatissimum), to demonstrate its utility in a crop species.

RESULTS

We used an amplicon-based approach in which DNA samples from an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)-mutagenized population were pooled and used as template in PCR reactions to amplify a region of each gene of interest. Barcodes were incorporated during PCR, and the pooled amplicons were sequenced using an Ion Torrent PGM. A pilot experiment with known SNPs showed that they could be detected at a frequency > 0.3% within the pools. We then selected eight genes for which we wanted to discover novel mutations, and applied our approach to screen 768 individuals from the EMS population, using either the Ion 314 or Ion 316 chips. Out of 29 potential mutations identified after processing the NGS reads, 16 mutations were confirmed using Sanger sequencing.

CONCLUSIONS

The methodology presented here demonstrates the utility of Ion Torrent technology in detecting mutation variants in specific genome regions for large populations of a species such as flax. The methodology could be scaled-up to test >100 genes using the higher capacity chips now available from Ion Torrent.

ERKs and mitochondria-related pathways are essential for glycyrrhizic acid-mediated neuroprotection against glutamate-induced toxicity in differentiated PC12 cells

The present study focuses on the neuroprotective effect of glycyrrhizic acid (GA, a major compound separated from Glycyrrhiza Radix, which is a crude Chinese traditional drug) against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in differentiated PC12 (DPC12) cells. The results showed that GA treatment improved cell viability and ameliorated abnormal glutamate-induced alterations in mitochondria in DPC12 cells. GA reversed glutamate-suppressed B-cell lymphoma 2 levels, inhibited glutamate-enhanced expressions of Bax and cleaved caspase 3, and reduced cytochrome C (Cyto C) release. Exposure to glutamate strongly inhibited phosphorylation of AKT (protein kinase B) and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs); however, GA pretreatment enhanced activation of ERKs but not AKT. The presence of PD98059 (a mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase [MEK] inhibitor) but not LY294002 (a phosphoinositide 3-kinase [PI3K] inhibitor) diminished the potency of GA for improving viability of glutamate-exposed DPC12 cells. These results indicated that ERKs and mitochondria-related pathways are essential for the neuroprotective effect of GA against glutamate-induced toxicity in DPC12 cells. The present study provides experimental evidence supporting GA as a potential therapeutic agent for use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Comparison of Two Old Phytochemicals versus Two Newly Researched Plant-Derived Compounds: Potential for Brain and Other Relevant Ailments

Among hundreds of formulae of Chinese herbal prescriptions and recently extracted active components from the herbs, some of which had demonstrated their functions on nervous system. For the last decade or more, Gingko biloba and Polygala tenuifolia were widely studied for their beneficial effects against damage to the brain. Two compounds extracted from Apium graveolens and Rhizoma coptidis, butylphthalide and berberine, respectively, received much attention recently as potential neuroprotective agents. In this review, the two traditionally used herbs and the two relatively new compounds will be discussed with regard to their potential advantages in alleviating brain and other relevant ailments.

Protection of pyruvate against glutamate excitotoxicity is mediated by regulating DAPK1 protein complex

The neuroprotective activity of pyruvate has been confirmed in previous in vivo and in vitro studies. Here, we report a novel mechanism that pyruvate prevents SH-SY5Y cells from glutamate excitotoxicity by regulating death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) protein complex. Our results showed pyruvate regulated DAPK1 protein complex to protect cells by two ways. First, pyruvate induced the dissociation of DAPK1 with NMDA receptors. The disruption of the DAPK1-NMDA receptors complex resulted in a decrease in NMDA receptors phosphorylation. Then the glutamate-stimulated Ca2+ influx was inhibited and intracellular Ca2+ overload was alleviated, which blocked the release of cytochrome c and cell death. In addition, increased Bcl-xL induced by pyruvate regulated Bax/Bak dependent death by inhibiting the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondrial inter-membrane space into the cytosol. As a result, the cytochrome c-initiated caspase cascade, including caspase-3 and caspase-9, was inhibited. Second, pyruvate promoted the association between DAPK1 and Beclin-1, which resulted in autophagy activation. The autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine reversed the protection afforded by pyruvate. Furthermore, the attenuation of mitochondrial damage induced by pyruvate was partly reduced by 3-methyladenine. This suggested autophagy mediated pyruvate protection by preventing mitochondrial damage. Taken together, pyruvate protects cells from glutamate excitotoxicity by regulating DAPK1 complexes, both through dissociation of DAPK1 from NMDA receptors and association of DAPK1 with Beclin-1. They go forward to protect cells by attenuating Ca2+ overload and activating autophagy. Finally, a convergence of the two ways protects mitochondria from glutamate excitotoxicity, which leads to cell survival.

Progesterone and cilostazol protect mice pancreatic islets from oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide

Reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress impair β-cell function and reduce insulin secretion. It has been shown that progesterone and cilostazol possess antioxidant properties. The present study was aimed to investigate in-vitro pretreatment effect of progesterone and cilostazol on insulin secretion as well as their protective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in pancreatic isolated islets from mouse. Pancreatic islets were isolated from 84 male NMRI mice (25-30 g) by collagenase digestion method and pretreated for 48 h with cilostazol (10 μM), progesterone (0.5 μM) and glibenclamide (10 μM) in culture medium. Then islets were exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2. 500 μM) for 2 h. Next, culture mediums containing glucose concentration of 2.8 mM or 16.7 mM were added to them and incubated in this status for 1 h. At the end, the rate of insulin output from islets, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activities in islet tissues were assayed. Exposure of islets to H2O2, resulted in a significant decrease in insulin secretion, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities (P < 0.001). Also islets malondialdehyde levels were increased by H2O2, after addition of 2.8 mM (P < 0.05) and 16.7 mM (P < 0.001) glucose. 48 h pretreatment of islets with cilostazol and progesterone, significantly reverted back this changes (P < 0.05). Results of present study showed that cilostazol and progesterone protect mice pancreatic islets against H2O2-induced oxidative stress. At the end, our results suggested that protective effects of progesterone and cilostazol are mediated by augmentation the antioxidant defence system of islets.

Ascorbate prevents cell death from prolonged exposure to glutamate in an in vitro model of human dopaminergic neurons

Ascorbate (vitamin C) is a nonenzymatic antioxidant highly concentrated in the brain. In addition to mediating redox balance, ascorbate is linked to glutamate neurotransmission in the striatum, where it renders neuroprotection against excessive glutamate stimulation. Oxidative stress and glutamatergic overactivity are key biochemical features accompanying the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra that characterizes Parkinson's disease (PD). At present, it is not clear whether antiglutamate agents and ascorbate might be neuroprotective agents for PD. Thus, we tested whether ascorbate can prevent cell death from prolonged exposure to glutamate using dopaminergic neurons of human origin. To this purpose, dopamine-like neurons were obtained by differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells and then cultured for 4 days without antioxidant (antiaging) protection to evaluate glutamate toxicity and ascorbate protection as a model system of potential factors contributing to dopaminergic neuron death in PD. Glutamate dose dependently induced toxicity in dopaminergic cells largely by the stimulation of AMPA and metabotropic receptors and to a lesser extent by N-methyl-D-aspartate and kainate receptors. At relatively physiological levels of extracellular concentration, ascorbate protected cells against glutamate excitotoxicity. This neuroprotection apparently relies on the inhibition of oxidative stress, because ascorbate prevented the pro-oxidant action of the scavenging molecule quercetin, which occurred over the course of prolonged exposure, as is also seen with glutamate. Our findings show the relevance of ascorbate as a neuroprotective agent and emphasize an often underappreciated role of oxidative stress in glutamate excitotoxicity. Occurrence of a glutamate-ascorbate link in dopaminergic neurons may explain previous contradictions regarding their putative role in PD.

In vitro anticancer effect of venom from Cuban scorpion Rhopalurus junceus against a panel of human cancer cell lines

In Cuba the endemic species of scorpion Rhopalurus junceus has been used in traditional medicine for cancer treatment. However, there is little scientific evidence about its potential in cancer therapy. The effect of a range of scorpion venom concentrations (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1mg/ml) against a panel of human tumor cell lines from epithelial (Hela, SiHa, Hep-2, NCI-H292, A549, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, HT-29), hematopoietic origins (U937, K562, Raji) and normal cells (MRC-5, MDCK, Vero) was determined by the MTT assay. Additionally, the effect of venom on tumor cell death was assayed by Fluorescence microscopy, RT-PCR and western blot. Only the epithelial cancer cells showed significant cell viability reduction, with medium cytotoxic concentration (IC50) ranging from 0.6-1mg/ml, in a concentration-dependent manner. There was no effect on either normal or hematopoietic tumor cells. Scorpion venom demonstrated to induce apoptosis in less sensitive tumor cells (Hela) as evidenced by chromatin condensation, over expression of p53 and bax mRNA, down expression of bcl-2 mRNA and increase of activated caspases 3, 8, 9. In most sensitive tumor cells (A549), scorpion venom induced necrosis evidenced by acridine orange/ethidium bromide fluorescent dyes and down-expression of apoptosis-related genes. We concluded the scorpion venom from R. junceus possessed a selective and differential toxicity against epithelial cancer cells. This is the first report related to biological effect of R. junceus venom against a panel of tumor cells lines. All these results make R. junceus venom as a promise natural product for cancer treatment.

Virus-like Particle Vaccines for Norovirus Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis (GE) and its associated diarrheal diseases remain as one of the top causes of death in the world. Noroviruses (NoVs) are a group of genetically diverse RNA viruses that cause the great majority of nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. However, there is still no vaccine licensed for human use to prevent NoV GE. The lack of a tissue culture system and a small animal model further hinders the development of NoV vaccines.

Virus-like particles (VLPs) that mimic the antigenic architecture of authentic virions, however, can be produced in insect, mammalian, and plant cells by the expression of the capsid protein. The particulate nature and high-density presentation of viral structure proteins on their surface render VLPs as a premier vaccine platform with superior safety, immunogenicity, and manufacturability. Therefore, this chapter focuses on the development of effective NoV vaccines based on VLPs of capsid proteins. The expression and structure of NoV VLPs, especially VLPs of Norwalk virus, the prototype NoV, are extensively discussed. The ability of NoV VLPs in stimulating a potent systemic and mucosal anti-NoV immunity through oral and intranasal delivery in mice is presented.

The advantages of plant expression systems as a novel production platform for VLP-based NoV vaccines are discussed in light of their cost-effectiveness, production speed, and scalability. Recent achievements from the first successful demonstration of NoV VLP production in plant expression system under the current Good Manufacture Practice (cGMP) regulation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are detailed.

Moreover, results of human clinical trials demonstrating the safety and efficacy of insect and plant-derived NoV VLPs are also presented. Due to the diversity of capsid protein among different NoV strains and its rapid antigenic drift, we speculate that vaccine development should focus on multivalent VLP vaccines derived from capsid proteins of the most prevalent strains. With the very recent approval of the first plant-made biologics by the FDA, we also speculate that plant-based production systems will play an important role in manufacturing such multivalent VLP-based NoV vaccines.

Neuroprotective effect of ginkgolide K on glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in PC 12 cells via inhibition of ROS generation and Ca(2+) influx

Glutamate is considered to be responsible for the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia disease. [Ca(2+)](i) influx and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production are considered to be involved in glutamate-induced apoptosis process. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of ginkgolide K in the glutamate-induced rat's adrenal pheochromocytoma cell line (PC 12 cells) and the possible mechanism. Glutamate cytotoxicity in PC 12 cells was accompanied by an increment of malondialdehyde (MDA) content and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, as well as Ca(2+) influx, bax/bcl-2 ratio, cytochrome c release, caspase-3 protein and ROS generation, and reduction of cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Moreover, treatment with glutamate alone resulted in decrease activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity. However, pretreatment with ginkgolide K significantly reduced MDA content, LDH release, as well as Ca(2+) influx, cytochrome c release, bax/bcl-2 ratio, caspase-3 protein and ROS production, and attenuated the decrease of cells viability and MMP. In addition, ginkgolide K remarkedly up-regulated SOD and GSH-PX activities. All these findings indicated that ginkgolide K protected PC12 cells against glutamate-induced apoptosis by inhibiting Ca(2+) influx and ROS production. Therefore, the present study supports the notion that ginkgolide K may be a promising neuroprotective agent for the treatment of cerebral ischemia disease.