Antioxidant and hypolipidemic potential of aged garlic extract and its constituent, s-allyl cysteine, in rats

In-vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential along with p.o. pharmacokinetic profile of key bioactive phytocompounds of Snow Mountain Garlic: a comparative analysis vis-à-vis normal garlic

Snow mountain garlic (SMG) is a trans-Himalayan medicinal plant used in the traditional medicine system for several ailments, including inflammatory arthritis. Research studies are insufficient to validate its folk medicinal applications. In the present study, the comparative abundance of its key bioactive phytocompounds, viz., S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC), alliin, and S-methyl-L-cysteine (SMC) against normal garlic were assessed using the LC-MS/MS-MRM method. In addition, the study also explored the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency of crude extract of SMG and purified signature phytocompounds (i.e., SMC, SAC, and alliin) in comparison with normal garlic and dexamethasone in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. The LC-MS/MS-MRM study revealed significant differences among SMG and normal garlic, viz., alliin 22.8-fold higher in SMG, and SMC could be detected only in SMG. In the bioassays, SMG extract and purified signature phytocompounds significantly downregulated oxidative damage in activated macrophages, boosting endogenous antioxidants' activity. SMG extract-treated macrophages significantly suppressed NF-κB expression and related inflammatory indicators such as cytokines, COX-2, iNOS, and NO. Notably, the observed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactivities of SMG extract were comparable to signature phytocompounds and dexamethasone. In addition, SAC being uniformly found in SMG and normal garlic, its comparative pharmacokinetics was studied to validate the pharmacodynamic superiority of SMG over normal garlic. Significantly higher plasma concentrations (Cmax), half-life (t1/2), and area under curve (AUC) of SAC following SMG extract administration than normal garlic validated the proposed hypothesis. Thus, the abundance of bioactive phytocompounds and their better pharmacokinetics in SMG extract might be underlying its medicinal merits over normal garlic.

Natural H2S-donors: A new pharmacological opportunity for the management of overweight and obesity

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has progressively increased in the last few years, becoming a real threat to healthcare systems. To date, the clinical management of body weight gain is an unmet medical need, as there are few approved anti-obesity drugs and most require an extensive monitoring and vigilance due to risk of adverse effects and poor patient adherence/persistence. Growing evidence has shown that the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and, therefore, H2S-donors could have a central role in the prevention and treatment of overweight/obesity. The main natural sources of H2S-donors are plants from the Alliaceae (garlic and onion), Brassicaceae (e.g., broccoli, cabbage, and wasabi), and Moringaceae botanical families. In particular, polysulfides and isothiocyanates, which slowly release H2S, derive from the hydrolysis of alliin from Alliaceae and glucosinolates from Brassicaceae/Moringaceae, respectively. In this review, we describe the emerging role of endogenous H2S in regulating adipose tissue function and the potential efficacy of natural H2S-donors in animal models of overweight/obesity, with a final focus on the preliminary results from clinical trials. We conclude that organosulfur-containing plants and their extracts could be used before or in combination with conventional anti-obesity agents to improve treatment efficacy and reduce inflammation in obesogenic conditions. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish their clinical efficacy.

Advances in the study of vascular related protective effect of garlic (Allium sativum) extract and compounds

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a functional food containing multiple bioactive compounds that find widespread applications in culinary and medicinal practices. It consists of multiple chemical components, including allicin and alliin. This article offers a comprehensive review of the protective effects of garlic extracts and their active constituents on the vascular system. In vitro and in vivo experiments have shown that garlic extracts and their active ingredients possess various bioactive properties. These substances demonstrate beneficial effects on blood vessels by demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, inhibiting lipid accumulation and migration, preventing lipid peroxidation, promoting angiogenesis, reducing platelet aggregation, enhancing endothelial function, and inhibiting endothelial cell apoptosis. In clinical studies, garlic and its extracts have demonstrated their efficacy in managing vascular system diseases, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. In summary, these studies highlight the potential therapeutic roles and underlying mechanisms of garlic and its constituents in managing conditions like diabetes, atherosclerosis, ischemic diseases, and other vascular disorders.

Evaluation of Expression of Cytochrome P450 Aromatase and Inflammatory, Oxidative, and Apoptotic Markers in Testicular Tissue of Obese Rats (Pre)Treated with Garlic Powder

Today, adolescent obesity is recognized as an epidemic and a cause of reproductive disorders. Decreased testosterone levels occur due to functional defects in the hypothalamus-pituitary axis, excessive activity of cytochrome P450 aromatase enzyme, and testicular dysfunction in these people. Oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis are also the main mechanisms of testicular damage during obesity. The use of herbal products such as garlic can improve this disorder due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of pretreatment and treatment of garlic powder on the expression of cytochrome P450 aromatase enzyme and the expression of genes involved in testosterone synthesis, inflammation, oxidative damage, apoptosis in testicular tissue, and metabolic function of liver tissue in young male obese rats. Eighty male Wistar rats were divided into the controlled and treated groups. Serum levels of lipid, glucose, and insulin as metabolic factors were measured along with the testicular antioxidant and inflammation markers. The expression of Bcl2, Bax, and caspase-3 along with NF-κB, SREBP-1c, CPT-1beta, Nrf-2, CD36, FAS, CYP19A1, P450scc, StAR, 17βHSD, PPARα, and aromatase (CYP19, P450arom) was also measured. Testicular histological evaluation and spermatogenic process was also performed. The results showed that oxidative, inflammatory, and metabolic factors significantly increased in obese rats. The testicular expression of aromatase, NF-κB, Bax, and caspase 3 increased and Nrf2 expression decreased in obese rats, while (pre) treatment with garlic powder significantly decreased the expression of these genes in obese rats. These results were also confirmed by the findings of the histological evaluation and sperm analysis. It can be concluded that garlic powder could improve reproductive dysfunction in obese rats.

Allicin and Capsaicin Ameliorated Hypercholesterolemia by Upregulating LDLR and Downregulating PCSK9 Expression in HepG2 Cells

Hypercholesterolemia is a common cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Although allicin and capsaicin possess hypolipidemic effects through several molecular mechanisms, their effects on LDLR and PCSK9 expression are still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of allicin and capsaicin on LDLR and PCSK9 expression in HepG2 cells. The effects of allicin and capsaicin on cell viability were evaluated by MTT assay and trypan blue exclusion assay. Low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) levels and LDL uptake were determined by flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), respectively. RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses were performed to evaluate the expression of PCSK9, LDLR, SREBP-2, and HNF1α. ELISA was used to measure PCSK9 levels in culture media. Allicin and capsaicin increased the protein expression levels of LDLR via activation of the transcription factor SREBP2. However, allicin and capsaicin decreased the expression of PCSK9 protein and the secretion of PCSK9 in culture media via the suppression of HNF1α. Moreover, allicin and capsaicin increased LDL uptake into HepG2 cells. The efficacies of the hypolipidemic effects of allicin (200 µM) and capsaicin (200 µM) were comparable to that of atorvastatin (10 µM) in this study. In conclusion, allicin and capsaicin possessed hypolipidemic effects via the upregulation of LDLR and downregulation of PCSK9 expression, thereby enhancing LDL uptake into HepG2 cells. This indicates that allicin and capsaicin should be used as potent supplements to ameliorate hypercholesterolemia.

Obviation of dyslipidemia by garlic oil and its organosulfur compound, diallyl disulphide, in experimental animals

Background and objectives

Garlic and its number of preparations are known to be effective for treatment of dyslipidemia, but the data about the specific active constituents of the garlic on the possible therapeutic value is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this research was to evaluate the role of garlic oil (GO) and its active element, diallyl disulphide (DADS) for obviating dyslipidemia in animal model.

Methods

High fat diet (HFD) was given to animals to induce dyslipidemia. Animals of HFD groups were fed with atherogenic diet for 15 days prior to treatment. Animals in their respective groups received vehicle, GO (50 and 100 mg/kg), and DADS (4.47 and 8.94 mg/kg) for five consecutive days. Lipid profiles were estimated in serum, oxidant/antioxidant and liver profile were measured in liver tissue homogenate (LTH).

Results

Animals fed on HFD developed significant increase in the serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDL), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) that reduced significantly in groups that received GO and DADS treatments. Additionally, significant elevation in serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) level was observed in animals that received GO and DADS. Moreover, hepatic markers such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transferase (ALT), that were abnormally altered by high fat diet, were significantly restored to almost normal values with GO and DADS treatments. Also, antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and total thiol (SH) levels in LTH were increased significantly in GO and DADS treated groups. When compared to DADS, GO showed better therapeutic effectiveness in terms of antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant properties.

Conclusion

In hyperlipidemic rats, garlic and its principal active component, diallyl disulphide, were effective in avoiding dyslipidemia and neutralizing reactive free radicals induced by a high fat diet. It's an intriguing observation that GO has a larger therapeutic influence than its active constituent, DADS. These findings suggest that other constituents, in addition to GO's DADS, are involved in the compound's synergistic antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities.

The Potential Benefits of Using Garlic Oil and Its Active Constituent, Dially Disulphide, in Combination With Carvedilol in Ameliorating Isoprenaline-Induced Cardiac Damage in Rats

Garlic oil and its primary component, diallyl disulphide (DADS), were tested in rats with isoprenaline (ISO) induced myocardial infarction for cardioprotective benefits when combined with carvedilol. Garlic oil (GO) was administered to rats (Sprague-dawley strain) at two doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight, whereas DADS was given in two doses of 4.47 and 8.94 mg/kg, respectively. The animals were given oral doses of garlic oil and DADS on alternate days for 3 weeks, either alone or in combination with carvedilol (2 mg/kg). Cardiac injury was done by administering two doses of isoprenaline (150 mg/kg, sc) to all treated groups except the first, which served as a control. Biomarkers of cardiac injury and histological investigations were studied for their potential in reducing ISO-induced myocardial damage. Animals pretreated with GO, DADS, and carvedilol had significantly (p < 0.01) lowered heart weight and heart to body weight ratio. In rats treated with carvedilol plus high dosages of garlic oil (100 mg/kg, p.o) and DADS (8.94 mg/kg, p.o) compared to the ISO control and carvedilol group, the activities of SOD and Catalase were enhanced in cardiac tissue homogenate. When compared to ISO control and carvedilol group, the activities of LDH and CK-MB were elevated in heart tissue homogenate with a simultaneous reduction in their serum levels in animals treated with a combination of carvedilol with high doses of garlic oil (100 mg/kg, p.o) and DADS (8.94 mg/kg, p.o). Overall, combining garlic oil or DADS with carvedilol improved the cardioprotective effect of carvedilol and protected rats from ISO-induced myocardial infarction. However, more research is needed to establish the mechanism of garlic oil and DADS interaction with carvedilol.

Cardioprotective Potential of Garlic Oil and Its Active Constituent, Diallyl Disulphide, in Presence of Carvedilol during Chronic Isoprenaline Injection-Mediated Myocardial Necrosis in Rats

In isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial infarcted rats, garlic oil (GO) and its main ingredient, diallyl disulfide (DADS), were examined for cardioprotective effects when used with carvedilol (CAR). GO, DADS and CAR were given to rats in their respective groups, either alone or together, with the addition of isoprenaline (3 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously) during the last 10 days of treatment. At the end of 14 days of treatment, blood samples were collected, the hearts were excised under anesthesia and weighed. Heart tissue homogenate was used to measure superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Furthermore, the serum activities of cardiac markers, including lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and cardiac troponin, were checked. Moreover, inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin one beta, interleukin six, and kappa bp65 subunit were assessed. Rats that received GO, DADS, and CAR exhibited a significant increase in the cardiac antioxidant enzyme activities with a simultaneous decrease in serum cardiac markers enzymes and inflammatory markers. The TBARS were significantly reduced in rats that received treatment. The addition of carvedilol to GO or DADS significantly elevated antioxidant activities and decreased the release of cardiac enzymes into blood circulation. Both DADS and GOl were almost similar in efficacy, indicating the potential role of DADS in garlic oil-mediated cardioprotection. Combining GO or DADS with CAR increased CAR’s cardioprotective impact and protected rats from developing ISO-induced myocardial infarction.

A Study to Compare Hypolipidemic Effects of Allium Sativum (Garlic) Alone and in Combination with Atorvastatin or Ezetimibe in Experimental Model

Background: Dyslipidemia is a major cause of atherosclerosis and atherosclerosis induced conditions. Atorvastatin is an effective drug for dyslipidemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Ezetimibe is used as an adjunct to statins hypercholesterolemia. Garlic is known for the hypolipidemic effect in traditional medicine. There are very limited studies comparing the additive effects of Allium sativum on atorvastatin and ezetimibe. Aims: To compare the additive hypolipidemic effects of Allium sativum with atorvastatin and ezetimibe. Setting and Design: The experimental study was done in Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Burdwan Medical College, Burdwan from February 2014 - October 2015. Material and Methods: Dyslipidemia rat by (induced by atherogenic diet) were randomized into five groups of six rats in each and each cage was labelled for identification of different groups and treated with drugs (atorvastatin, ezetimibe, garlic homogenate, atorvastatin + garlic homogenate, ezetimibe + garlic homogenate) for twelve weeks and assessment of lipid profiles were done. Change of parameters checked for any significant difference by appropriate statistical tests. Results: Significant TC (Total Cholesterol) & TG (Triglyceride) concentrations reduction were maximum among ezetimibe group (51% and 47%) respectively. LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) & VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) concentrations reduction were maximum (62% and 26%) among combination of atorvastatin and garlic group when compared to other treatment groups. HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) concentration was maximally increased (31%) among combination ezetimibe and garlic group which was also statistically significant. Conclusion: Garlic have significant hypolipidemic effect when used in combination with atorvastatin and ezetimibe.

The effect of single clove Black garlic on the hemostasis status and lipid profile in male Sprague Dawley rats with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients have alteration in hemostasis components. Thus, including excess expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), causing fibrinolysis disorders; the majority of these patients are hypercoagulable state prone to thrombosis. Some evidence suggests that garlic and garlic supplements have antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Besides, garlic stimulates fibrinolytic activity and normalizes plasma lipid imbalances. Black garlic is processed garlic that is produced through natural aging at a controlled temperature (70 °C) and high humidity (90%) for several days, without other additives. This study aimed to prove the effect of single clove black garlic (SCBG) (Allium sativum Linn) on PAI-1 levels and lipid profiles of NAFLD rats induced by a high-fat fructose diet (HFFD) containing 1.25% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid.The rats were then divided into healthy control group (K1+); NAFLD control group without treatment (K2+); 0.9 mg simvastatin treatment group (K1-); 45 mg metformin treatment group (K2-); SCBG 450 mg per 200g BW (X1); 900 mg per 200 g BW (X2); and 1350 mg per 200 g BW (X3). All treatments were administered for 4 weeks via oral gavage. As a result, significant differences in PAI-1 levels and lipid profiles between groups after the administration (p = 0.001) were noted and also by simvastatin and metformin, respectively. There was a correlation between PAI-1 and lipid profile of SCBG treatment. In conclusion, the administration of SCBG (1350 mg per 200 g BB per day) for 4 weeks had a significant effect on PAI-1 levels, and the lipid profiles in Sprague Dawley rats modeled NAFLD (p = 0.001). SCBG has provided benefits that can be useful in the management of NAFLD but it’s not equivalent to medicine.

Diallyl disulfide improves lipid metabolism by inhibiting PCSK9 expression and increasing LDL uptake via PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 pathway in HepG2 cells

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a volatile sulfide extracted from garlic, has been suggested as a chemical of anti-atherosclerotic drugs, while its molecular mechanism for this benefit has not fully been understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of DADS on lipid metabolism and its potential mechanisms in HepG2 cells induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS).

METHODS AND RESULTS

HepG2 cells were treated with LPS with or without different concentrations of DADS (0, 20, 40, 80, 160 μg/ml) for 24 h. The cell activity was detected by CCK8, and Dil-LDL uptake assay was used to examine the LDL uptake. Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression of LDLR, PCSK9 SREBP2 and HMGCR. In addition, we examined the effect of the combination of DADS with atorvastatin on PCSK9 expression. The results showed that LPS significantly increased PCSK9 and SREBP2 expressions in a dose-dependent manner in HepG2 cells. DADS attenuated PCSK9, SREBP2 and HMGCR expressions and up-regulated the expression of LDLR. Moreover, DADS reversed the expressions of PCSK9, SREBP2, HMGCR and LDLR induced by LPS and DADS could promote the LDL uptake in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, DADS decreased the expression of PCSK9 by activating the PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 signal pathway. Notably, DADS could reduce PCSK9 expression induced by atorvastatin in HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

DADS could significantly attenuated PCSK9 expression in a dose-dependent manner induced by LPS and increased the LDLR expression in HepG2 cells, which was associated with the activation of PI3K/Akt-SREBP2 signaling pathway.

Recent efforts in drug discovery on vascular inflammation and consequent atherosclerosis

Introduction: Preservation of vascular endothelium integrity and maintenance of its full functionality are fundamental aspects in order to avoid both cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular diseases.Areas covered: Although a massive endothelial disruption is a rare condition, caused by acute and uncontrolled inflammatory responses (e.g. the cytokine storm induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection), more frequently the vascular tree is the first target of slowly progressive inflammatory processes which affect the integrity of endothelium and its 'barrier' function, supporting the onset of atherosclerotic plaque and spreading inflammation. This endothelial dysfunction leads to decrease NO biosynthesis, impaired regulation of vascular tone, and increased platelet aggregation. Such chronic subclinic inflammation leads to macrophage infiltration in atherosclerotic lesions. Therefore, many efforts should be addressed to find useful approaches to preserve vascular endothelium from inflammation. In this review, the authors have evaluated the most recent strategies to counteract this pathological condition.Expert opinion: The therapeutic and nutraceutical approaches represent useful tools to treat or prevent different phases of vascular inflammation. In particular, the pharmacological approach should be used in advanced phases characterized by clinical signs of vascular disease, whilst the nutraceutical approach may represent a promising preventive strategy to preserve the integrity of the endothelial tissue.

S-allyl Cysteine, a Garlic Compound, Produces an Antidepressant-Like Effect and Exhibits Antioxidant Properties in Mice

Depression is a psychiatric disorder, and oxidative stress is a significant mechanism of damage in this mood disorder. It is characterized by an enhancement of oxidative stress markers and low concentrations of endogenous antioxidants, or antioxidants enzymes. This suggests that antioxidants could have an antidepressant effect. S-allyl cysteine (SAC) is a compound with antioxidant action or free radical scavenger capacity. The purpose of the current research was to evaluate the antidepressant-like effect as well as the antioxidant role of SAC on a preclinical test, using the Porsolt forced swim test (FST). SAC (30, 70, 120, or 250 mg/kg, ip) was administered to male BALB/c mice daily for 17 days, followed by the FST at day 18. Oxidative stress markers (reactive oxygen species, superoxide production, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzymes activities) were analyzed in the midbrain, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. SAC (120 mg/kg) attenuated the immobility scores (44%) in the FST, and protection was unrelated to changes in locomotor activity. This antidepressant-like effect was related to decreased oxidative stress, as indicated by lipid peroxidation and manganese-superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) activity in the hippocampus. SAC exerts an antidepressant-like effect that correlated, in part, with preventing oxidative damage in hippocampus.

Importance of Redox Equilibrium in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis-Impact of Antioxidant-Rich Diet

Psoriasis is a common, chronic, hyperproliferative, inflammatory skin disease occurring in most ethnic groups in the world. The disease is hereditary but the process of its inheritance is complex and still not fully understood. At the same time, it has been observed that psoriatic lesions may be triggered by certain prooxidative external factors: using narcotics, smoking, drinking alcohol, physical and mental stress, as well as bacterial infections and injury. Since the main physiological marker of psoriasis relates to disorders in the organism's antioxidative system, it is necessary to develop a well-balanced combination of pharmaceuticals and dietary antioxidants to facilitate the effective treatment and/or prevention of the disease. The dietary sources of antioxidants must be adequate for chronic use regardless of the patient's age and be easily available, e.g., as ingredients of regular food or dietary supplements. Diet manipulation is a promising therapeutic approach in the context of modulating the incidence of chronic diseases. Another potentially viable method entails the use of nutrigenomics, which guarantees a multiaspectual approach to the problem, including, in particular, analyses of the genetic profiles of psoriasis patients with the view to more accurately targeting key problems. The present paper pertains to the significance of redox equilibrium in the context of psoriasis. Based on information published in worldwide literature over the last decade, the impact of dietary exogenous antioxidants on the course of this chronic disease was analysed.

Therapeutic effects of garlic in cardiovascular atherosclerotic disease

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a widely known medicinal plant, potential of which remains to be fully evaluated. Its wide-range beneficial effects appear to be relevant for treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis and related diseases. It is generally believed that garlic-based preparations are able to improve lipid profile in humans, inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis, suppress low density lipoprotein oxidation, modulate blood pressure, suppress platelet aggregation, lower plasma fibrinogen level and increase fibrinolytic activity, thus providing clinically relevant cardioprotective and anti-atherosclerotic effects. It is important to assess the level of evidence available for different protective effects of garlic and to understand the underlying mechanisms. This information will allow adequate integration of garlic-based preparations to clinical practice. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of anti-atherosclerotic effects of garlic preparations, focusing on antihyperlipidemic, hypotensive, anti-platelet and direct anti-atherosclerotic activities of the medicinal plant. We also provide an overview of available meta-analyses and a number of clinical trials that assess the beneficial effects of garlic.

Antiatherosclerosis Properties of Total Saponins of Garlic in Rats

Garlic has been proven effective in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis (AS), which is widely used as a food and medicine by people in daily life. Garlic saponins are the main active nonsulfur compounds of garlic, which have a variety of pharmacological activities against cardiovascular diseases. In this study, the antiatherosclerosis properties and mechanism of total saponins of garlic (TSG) in rats were explored. The AS animal model was established by a combination of high-fat feeding, intraperitoneal injection of vitamin D_3, and ovalbumin-induced inflammation in SD rats. Then, the atherosclerotic rats were gavaged daily by TSG for 4 weeks. Administration of TSG markedly decreased atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta of atherosclerotic rats. TSG restored the serum lipid profile by significantly decreasing the lipid levels and had effective antioxidation by inhibiting the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and restoring the reduced activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, the ratio of thromboxane B₂ (TXB₂) and 6-keto-prostaglandin F_1α (6-keto-PGF_1α) could be maintained in a relatively stable dynamic balance after administration of TSG to maintain the vascular homeostasis. In summary, TSG had therapeutic effects on AS, which are promising as functional foods or nutraceuticals for the prevention and treatment of AS.

Protective effects of garlic extract against hematological alterations, immunosuppression, hepatic oxidative stress, and renal damage induced by cyclophosphamide in rats

Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent widely used as anticancer drug, reported to exert cytotoxic effects attributed to oxidative stress. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the protective effect of ethanolic extract of garlic (EEG) against cyclophosphamide (Cyp)-induced hematological disturbance and immunosuppressive and hepatotoxic effects. Forty male Wistar albino rats were randomized into four equal groups: the normal control one, the Cyp-treated group (50 mg/kg BW/IM, once weekly), the EEG-treated group (300 mg/kg BW, orally, daily), and the Cyp & EEG group. All rats received their relevant treatments for four consecutive weeks. This study revealed that Cyp significantly decreased erythrocyte count, hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts. However, the counts of neutrophils, eosinophils, and toxic neutrophils were elevated. Additionally, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and levels of liver and renal biomarkers were significantly elevated in the Cyp-treated group. Otherwise, hepatic catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were significantly lower than the control rats. Furthermore, Cyp significantly reduced whole blood respiratory burst activity (NBT), serum lysozyme and bactericidal activities, interlukin-12 (IL-12), and interferon-γ. In contrast, the levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interlukin-1β (IL-1β) were elevated. Additionally, Cyp induced hepatic and renal histopathological alterations. Data in the present study demonstrated that EEG has immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects and has the ability to diminish the alterations induced by Cyp.

The vivo antioxidant activity of self-made aged garlic extract on the d-galactose-induced mice and its mechanism research via gene chip analysis

Two self-made aged garlic extract (AGE) were prepared and they were subjected with d-galactose-induced mice to explore vivo antioxidant effects and its mechanism via gene chip analysis. The biochemical analysis results indicated that AGE could significantly reduce the malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipofuscin content and increase the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) activity. Histopathological observations found that AGE could improve the size, shape and arrangement state of liver and brain cells. Furthermore, gene expression profile array was used to screen 35 and 13 differentially expressed genes in liver and brain, respectively. Further analysis showed that the AGE could protect the mice from d-galactose-caused injury via carbohydrate metabolism, immunomodulatory, lipid metabolism, cell cycle regulation, amino acid metabolism and nervous regulation pathways. Through this experiment, we could comprehensively study the antioxidant mechanism of AGE and link the antioxidant function of AGE to the metabolic pathways.

AGE exerts its vivo antioxidant function through 41 metabolic pathways, which were related to 7 aging hallmarks.

Anti-obesity and Hypolipidemic effects of garlic oil and onion oil in rats fed a high-fat diet

Background

Until now, little research concerning the lipid-lowering and anti-obesity functions of garlic oil and onion oil has been performed. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of garlic oil and onion oil on serum lipid levels in hyperlipidemia model rats, to provide a scientific basis for the prevention of hyperlipidemia through a dietary approach, and to explore the potential health benefits of garlic and onion.

Method

Ninety-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into eight groups based on their body weight and serum levels of triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC). The rats received repeated oral administration of volatile oils extracted from garlic and onion for 60 days. Serum lipids and parameters of obesity were examined.

Results

The volatile oils suppressed the HFD-induced body weight gain and tended to decrease adipose tissue weight. The oils decreased the levels of TG, TC and LDL-C and increased the serum level of HDL-C compared with the rats in the hyperlipidemia model groups (P < 0.05). The oils were also effective at improving the lipid profile and alleviating hepatic steatosis.

Conclusion

Our results implied that garlic oil and onion oil have anti-obesity properties that can counteract the effects of an HFD on body weight, adipose tissue weight, and serum lipid profiles.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12986-018-0275-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Amelioration of Single Clove Black Garlic Aqueous Extract on Dyslipidemia and Hepatitis in Chronic Carbon Tetrachloride Intoxicated Swiss Albino Mice

Single clove garlic is the product of atypical bulbing process of garlic under specific conditions. Therefore, the number of researches on single clove garlic bioactivity is limited. Recently, the hepatoprotective effect of single clove garlic has been demonstrated. In this study, we investigated amelioration of single clove black garlic aqueous extract, a processed product from single clove garlic, on dyslipidemia and hepatitis induced by chronic administration of CCl₄. Mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, extract control, CCl₄ intoxication, and coadministrated CCl₄ and extract group. Mice were orally given a dose of 1 ml/kg body weight of CCl₄ for 28 days twice a week to establish chronic liver injury model. To evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of single clove black garlic, mice were cotreated with CCl₄ and single clove black garlic extract (200 mg/kg body weight) via gastric gauge for 30 days. Cotreatment with CCl₄ and extract could improve the changes of body weight, liver weight, and relative liver weight as compared to CCl₄ intoxicated mice. Single clove black garlic ameliorated dyslipidemia and the elevation of ALT and AST levels induced by chronic CCl₄ intoxication. Histological studies revealed that single clove black garlic could prevent mononuclear cells infiltration and hepatocyte necrosis.

Effect of neonatal orally administered S-allyl cysteine in high-fructose diet fed Wistar rats

S-allyl cysteine (SAC) has antioxidant, antidiabetic and antiobesity properties. We hypothesized that neonatal oral administration of SAC would protect rats against neonatal and adulthood high-fructose diet-induced adverse metabolic outcomes in adulthood. In total, 112 (males=56; females=56), 4-day-old Wistar rat pups were randomly allocated to groups and administered the following treatment regimens daily for 15 days from postnatal day (PND) 6-20: group I - 10 ml/kg distilled water, group II - 10 ml/kg 20% fructose solution (FS), group III - 150 mg/kg SAC and group IV - SAC+FS. On PND 21, the pups were weaned and allowed to grow on a standard rat chow (SRC) until PND 56. The rats from each treatment regimen were then randomly split into two subgroups: one on a SRC and plain drinking water and another on SRC and 20% FS as drinking fluid and then subjected to these treatment regimens for 8 weeks after which they were euthanized and tissues collected for analyzes. Neonatal oral administration of SAC attenuated the neonatal high-fructose diet-induced programming for hepatic lipid accretion in adulthood but not against adulthood high-fructose diet-induced visceral obesity. Neonatal oral administration of SAC programmes for protection against neonatal fructose-induced programming for hepatic lipid accumulation thus could potentially protect against fat-mediated liver derangements in adult life.

Aged garlic extract ameliorates immunotoxicity, hematotoxicity and impaired burn-healing in malathion- and carbaryl-treated male albino rats

Malathion and carbaryl are the most widely used organophosphate and carbamate insecticides, respectively, especially in developing countries; they pose a potential health hazard for both humans and animals. Here, we evaluated the protective effects of an odorless (free from allicin) Kyolic aged garlic extract (AGE, containing 0.1% S-allylcysteine; 200 mg/kg body weight) on the toxicity induced by 0.1 LD₅₀ of malathion (89.5 mg/kg body weight) and/or carbaryl (33.9 mg/kg body weight) in male Wistar rats. Doses were orally administered to animals for four consecutive weeks. The present study showed that AGE completely modulated most adverse effects induced by malathion and/or carbaryl in rats including the normocytic normochromic anemia, immunosuppression, and the delay in the skin-burning healing process through normalizing the count of blood cells (erythrocytes, leucocytes and platelets), hemoglobin content, hematocrit value, blood glucose-6-phosphodehydrogenase activity, weights and cellularity of lymphoid organs, serum γ-globulin concentration, and the delayed type of hypersensitivity response to the control values, and accelerating the inflammatory and proliferative phases of burn-healing. In addition, AGE completely modulated the decrease in serum reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration and the increase in clotting time in malathion alone and carbaryl alone treated rats. Moreover, AGE induced a significant increase (P < 0.001) in serum GSH concentration (above the normal value) and accelerating burn-healing process in healthy rats. In conclusion, AGE was effective in modulating most adverse effects induced in rats by malathion and carbaryl, and hence may be useful as a dietary adjunct for alleviating the toxicity in highly vulnerable people to insecticides intoxication. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 789-798, 2017.

Protective effect of Allium sativum (garlic) aqueous extract against lead-induced oxidative stress in the rat brain, liver, and kidney

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the ameliorative activity of Allium sativum against lead-induced oxidative stress in the brain, liver, and kidney of male rats. Four groups of male Wistar strain rats (100-120 g) were taken: group 1 received 1000 mg/L sodium acetate and group 2 was given 1000 mg/L lead acetate through drinking water for 2 weeks. Group 3 and 4 were treated with 250 mg/kg body weight/day of A. sativum and 500 mg/kg body weight/day of A. sativum, respectively, by oral intubation for a period of 2 weeks along with lead acetate. The rats were sacrificed after treatment and the brain, liver, and kidney were isolated on ice. In the brain, four important regions namely the hippocampus, cerebellum, cerebral cortex, and brain stem were separated and used for the present investigation. Blood was also drawn by cardiac puncture and preserved in heparinized vials at 4 °C for estimation of delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation products (LPP), total protein carbonyl content (TPCC), and lead in the selected brain regions, liver, and kidney of lead-exposed group compared with their respective controls. Blood delta-ALAD activity showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the lead-exposed rats. However, the concomitant administration of A. sativum resulted in tissue-specific recovery of oxidative stress parameters namely ROS, LPP, and TPCC. A. sativum treatment also restored the blood delta-ALAD activity back to control. Overall, our results indicate that A. sativum administration could be an effective antioxidant treatment strategy for lead-induced oxidative insult.

Therapeutic effects of acetylspiramycin and garlicin on cryptosporidiosis among drug users

Cryptosporidiosis affects humans of all ages, particularly malnourished children and those with compromised immune systems such as HIV/AIDS. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of acetylspiramycin and garlicin on Cryptosporidium infection in institutionalized male drug users receiving rehabilitative treatment. Examination of stool specimens from 903 drug users via modified acid-fast bacilli staining resulted in 172 positive cases. Among them 151 subjects consented to participate in a randomized trial of acetylspiramycin and garlicin in four groups: acetylspiramycin plus garlicin, acetylspiramycin only, garlicin only, and placebo control. The cryptosporidiosis rate was higher in younger subjects with longer drug use history than subjects who are older with shorter history of drug use. After two segments of treatments, 76.2% of the cases achieved negative test results, with the four groups achieving the rates of 92.1%, 76.7%, 72.2%, and 61.8%, respectively (χ(2) = 9.517, P = 0.023). These results indicate clinical potential of garlicin in conjunction with acetylspiramycin in treating cryptosporidiosis.

Protective effects of allicin against ischemic stroke in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion

Allicin, a molecule predominantly responsible for the pungent odor and the antibiotic function of garlic, exhibits various pharmacological activities and has been suggested to be beneficial in the treatment of various disorders. The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of allicin in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Rats were subjected to 1.5 h of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Rats were randomly assigned to the sham surgery group, the MCAO group and the MCAO + allicin group. Neurological score, cerebral infarct size, brain water content, neuronal apoptosis, serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‑α and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were measured. The results suggested that allicin reduced cerebral infarction area, brain water content, neuronal apoptosis, TNF‑α levels and MPO activity in the serum. The results of the present study indicated that allicin protects the brain from cerebral I/R injury, which may be ascribed to its anti‑apoptotic and anti‑inflammatory effects.