Baicalin Ameliorates Liver Injury Induced by Chronic plus Binge Ethanol Feeding by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation via CYP2E1 and NRF2 in Mice

Berberine alleviates fructose-induced hepatic injury via ADK/AMPK/Nrf2 pathway: A novel insight

Berberine (BBR) is a major active component of traditional Chinese medicine Rhizoma Coptidis and Cortex Phellodendri, which have been frequently used to treat liver diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammation are two pivotal hepatic pathological hallmarks. This study aimed to explore the potential effect and underlying mechanism of BBR on fructose-induced rat liver injury model, and hepatocyte damage in HepG2 and BRL-3A cells. Our results indicated that BBR effectively reversed fructose-induced body weight gain, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance, observably attenuated abnormal histopathological alterations and ameliorated serum activities of ALT and AST. In vivo and in vitro, BBR significantly alleviated the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, and elevated levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. BBR also attenuated oxidative stress by markedly decreasing intracellular contents of ROS and MDA, and increasing SOD enzymatic activity and GSH level. Furthermore, BBR substantially upregulated the protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1 and p-AMPK, and the fluorescence level of p-AMPK. In addition, BBR significantly increased the level of AMP, the ratio of AMP/ATP, and promoted the expression of ADK. Nevertheless, siADK abolished the benefits exerted by BBR on HepG2 and BRL-3A cells. Conclusively, the hepatoprotective effect of BBR was believed to be intimately associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action mediated, at least partially, via ADK/AMPK/Nrf2 signaling. This work provided further support for the traditional application of Rhizoma Coptidis and Cortex Phellodendri in liver protection and might shed novel dimension to the clinical application of BBR, providing a promising lead compound for drug design.

Baicalin protects against hepatocyte injury caused by aflatoxin B1 via the TP53-related ferroptosis Pathway

OBJECTIVE

Baicalin has antioxidative, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its ability to alleviate oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage in liver cells exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a highly hepatotoxic compound, remains uncertain. In this study, the protective effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury and the mechanisms underlying those effects were investigated.

METHODS

Stable cell lines expressing CYP3A4 were established using lentiviral vectors to assess oxidative stress levels by conducting assays to determine the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, DNA damage was evaluated by 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and comet assays. Transcriptome sequencing, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the mechanisms underlying the effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury. In vivo, a rat model of hepatocyte injury induced by AFB1 was used to evaluate the effects of baicalin.

RESULTS

In vitro, baicalin significantly attenuated AFB1-induced injury caused due to OS, as determined by a decrease in ROS, MDA, and SOD levels. Baicalin also considerably decreased AFB1-induced DNA damage in hepatocytes. This protective effect of baicalin was found to be closely associated with the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. To elaborate, baicalin physically interacts with P53, leading to the suppression of the expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11, which in turn inhibits ferroptosis. In vivo findings showed that baicalin decreased DNA damage and ferroptosis in AFB1-treated rat liver tissues, as determined by a decrease in the expression of γ-H2AX and an increase in GPX4 and SLC7A11 levels. Overexpression of TP53 weakened the protective effects of baicalin.

CONCLUSIONS

Baicalin can alleviate AFB1-induced OS and DNA damage in liver cells via the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. In this study, a theoretical foundation was established for the use of baicalin in protecting the liver from the toxic effects of AFB1.

Construction of Magnolol Nanoparticles for Alleviation of Ethanol-Induced Acute Gastric Injury

Ethanol (EtOH) has been identified as a potential pathogenic factor in gastric ulcer development primarily due to its association with gastric injury and excessive production of reactive oxygen species. Magnolol (Mag), the principal active compound in Magnolia officinalis extract, is well studied for its notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, its limited solubility, propensity for agglomeration, and low absorption and utilization rates significantly restrict its therapeutic use. This study aims to overcome these challenges by developing a Mag nanoparticle system targeting the treatment and prevention of EtOH-induced gastric ulcers in mice. Utilizing a click chemistry approach, we successfully synthesized this system by reacting thiolated bovine serum albumin (BSA·SH) with Mag. The in vitro analysis revealed effective uptake of the BSA·SH-Mag nanoparticle system by human gastric epithelial cells (GES-1), showcasing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Additionally, BSA·SH-Mag exhibited gradual disintegration and release in simulated gastric fluid, resulting in a notable reduction of oxidative stress in gastric tissues and mucosal tissue repair and effectively reducing inflammatory expression. Furthermore, BSA·SH-Mag attenuated EtOH-induced gastric inflammation by decreasing the level of NOX4 protein expression and augmenting the level of Nrf2 protein expression. In conclusion, our findings indicate that BSA·SH-Mag represents a promising candidate as an oral therapeutic for gastric ulcer treatment.

Functional Food Chemical Ingredient Strategies for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Hepatic Fibrosis: Chemical Properties, Health Benefits, Action, and Application

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The liver is an important digestive gland in the body. Lifestyle and dietary habits are increasingly damaging our liver, leading to various diseases and health problems. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most serious liver disease problems in the world. Diet is one of the important factors in maintaining liver health. Functional foods and their components have been identified as novel sources of potential preventive agents in the prevention and treatment of liver disease in daily life. However, the effects of functional components derived from small molecules in food on different types of liver diseases have not been systematically summarized.

RECENT FINDINGS

The components and related mechanisms in functional foods play a significant role in the development and progression of NAFLD and liver fibrosis. A variety of structural components are found to treat and prevent NAFLD and liver fibrosis through different mechanisms, including flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, and peptides. On the other hand, the relevant mechanisms include oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune regulation, and a large number of literature studies have confirmed a close relationship between the mechanisms. The purpose of this article is to examine the current literature related to functional foods and functional components used for the treatment and protection against NAFLD and hepatic fibrosis, focusing on chemical properties, health benefits, mechanisms of action, and application in vitro and in vivo. The roles of different components in the biological processes of NAFLD and liver fibrosis were also discussed.

Research progress of natural active compounds on improving podocyte function to reduce proteinuria in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a primary cause of end-stage renal disease. Proteinuria is a clinical indicator of the different stages of DKD, and podocyte injury is a major cause of proteinuria. Podocyte-specific proteins (PSPs) play important roles in the normal filtration of podocytes. Studies have shown that natural active compounds (NACs) can ameliorate proteinuria; however, the mechanism related to PSPs needs to be explored. In this study, the five stages of DKD related to proteinuria and the functions of PSPs are displayed separately. Mechanisms for ameliorating proteinuria and improving the PSPs of the 15 NACs are summarized. The in vitro and in vivo mechanistic research showed that five compounds, astragaloside IV, ligustrazine, berberine, emodin and resveratrol, exerted renal protective effects via AMPK signaling, icariin and berberine via TLR4 signaling, hirudin and baicalin via MAPK signaling, curcumin and baicalin via NF-κB signaling, and emodin via protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase signaling. The 13 PSPs were divided into five categories: actin cytoskeleton, basal domain, apical domain, slit diaphragm, and others. In conclusion, anti-inflammatory effects, anti-oxidative stress, and enhanced autophagy are the main mechanisms underlying the ameliorative effects of NACs. Podocyte apoptosis is mainly related to nephrin and podocin, which are the most studied slit diaphragm PSPs.

Tangeretin Protects Mice from Alcohol-Induced Fatty Liver by Activating Mitophagy through the AMPK-ULK1 Pathway

Alcoholic beverages are widely consumed all over the world, but continuous ethanol exposure leads to hepatic steatosis that, without proper treatment, will later develop into severe liver disorders. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effect of tangeretin, a flavonoid derived from citrus peel, against alcoholic fatty liver. The in vivo effects of tangeretin were analyzed by oral intake in a chronic-binge alcohol feeding C57BL/6j mouse model, while the underlying mechanism was explored by in vitro studies performed on ethanol-treated hepatic AML-12 cells. Ethanol feeding increased the serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, the liver weight, and the serum and liver triacylglycerol contents, whereas 20 and 40 mg/kg tangeretin treatment promoted a dose-dependent suppression of these effects. Interestingly, tangeretin prevented increases in the liver oxidative stress level and protected the hepatocyte mitochondria from ethanol-induced morphologic abnormalities. A mechanistic study showed that 20 μM tangeretin treatment activated mitophagy through an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-uncoordinated 51-like kinase 1 (Ulk1) pathway, thereby restoring mitochondria respiratory function and suppressing steatosis. By contrast, blocking the AMPK-Ulk1 pathway with compound C reversed the hepatoprotective effect of tangeretin. Overall, tangeretin activated mitophagy and protected against ethanol-induced hepatic steatosis through an AMPK-Ulk1-dependent mechanism.

Role of baicalin as a potential therapeutic agent in hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal disorders: A review

Baicalin is a natural bioactive compound derived from Scutellaria baicalensis, which is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. A literature survey demonstrated the broad spectrum of health benefits of baicalin such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardio-protective, hepatoprotective, renal protective, and neuroprotective properties. Baicalin is hydrolyzed to its metabolite baicalein by the action of gut microbiota, which is further reconverted to baicalin via phase 2 metabolism in the liver. Many studies have suggested that baicalin exhibits therapeutic potential against several types of hepatic disorders including hepatic fibrosis, xenobiotic-induced liver injury, fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, cholestasis, ulcerative colitis, hepatocellular and colorectal cancer. During in vitro and in vivo examinations, it has been observed that baicalin showed a protective role against liver and gut-associated abnormalities by modifying several signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-kappa B, transforming growth factor beta 1/SMAD3, sirtuin 1, p38/mitogen-activated protein kinase/Janus kinase, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinaseβ/adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase pathways. Furthermore, baicalin also regulates the expression of fibrotic genes such as smooth muscle actin, connective tissue growth factor, β-catenin, and inflammatory cytokines such as interferon gamma, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-1β, and attenuates the production of apoptotic proteins such as caspase-3, caspase-9 and B-cell lymphoma 2. However, due to its low solubility and poor bioavailability, widespread therapeutic applications of baicalin still remain a challenge. This review summarized the hepatic and gastrointestinal protective attributes of baicalin with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that regulate the interaction of baicalin with the gut microbiota.

Scutellaria baicalensis and its constituents baicalin and baicalein as antidotes or protective agents against chemical toxicities: a comprehensive review

Scutellaria baicalensis (SB), also known as the Chinese skullcap, has a long history of being used in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions ranging from microbial infections to metabolic syndrome and malignancies. Numerous studies have reported that treatment with total SB extract or two main flavonoids found in its root and leaves, baicalin (BA) and baicalein (BE), can prevent or alleviate the detrimental toxic effects of exposure to various chemical compounds. It has been shown that BA and BE are generally behind the protective effects of SB against toxicants. This paper aimed to review the protective and therapeutic effects of SB and its main components BA and BE against chemical compounds that can cause intoxication after acute or chronic exposure and seriously affect different vital organs including the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. In this review paper, we had a look into a total of 221 in vitro and in vivo studies from 1995 to 2021 from the scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science which reported protective or therapeutic effects of BA, BE, or SB against drugs and chemicals that one might be exposed to on a professional or accidental basis and compounds that are primarily used to simulate disease models. In conclusion, the protective effects of SB and its flavonoids can be mainly attributed to increase in antioxidants enzymes, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, reduction of inflammatory cytokines, and suppression of apoptosis pathway.

Diallyl disulfide ameliorates ethanol-induced liver steatosis and inflammation by maintaining the fatty acid catabolism and regulating the gut-liver axis

Diallyl disulfide (DADS) has been suggested to possess hepatoprotection against alcoholic liver disease (ALD) by a couple of pilot studies, while the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of DADS against ethanol-induced liver steatosis and early inflammation by using the chronic-plus-binge mice model and cultured J774A.1 macrophages and AML12 hepatocytes. We found that DADS significantly attenuated ethanol-induced elevation of serum aminotransferase activities, accumulation of liver triglyceride, hepatocytes apoptosis, oxidative stress, infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils, and proinflammatory polarization of macrophages in mice livers. In addition, chronic-plus-binge drinking induced apparent intestinal mucosa damage and disturbance of gut microbiota, endotoxemia, and activation of hepatic NF-κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome, which was inhibited by DADS. In vitro studies using cocultured AML12/J774A.1 cells showed that DADS suppressed ethanol/LPS-induced cell injury and inflammatory activation of macrophages. Furthermore, DADS ameliorated ethanol-induced decline of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), and phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) protein levels in mice liver and AML12 cells. These results demonstrate that DADS could prevent ethanol-induced liver steatosis and early inflammation by regulating the gut-liver axis and maintaining fatty acid catabolism.

Baicalin provides protection against fluoxetine-induced hepatotoxicity by modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Fluoxetine is one of the most widely prescribed anti-depressant drugs belonging to the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Long-term fluoxetine treatment results in hepatotoxicity. Baicalin, a natural compound obtained from the Chinese herb Scutellaria baicalensis is known to have antioxidant, hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the beneficial effects of baicalin against fluoxetine-induced hepatic damage have not previously been reported.

AIM

To evaluate the protective action of baicalin in fluoxetine-induced liver toxicity and inflammation.

METHODS

Male albino Wistar rats were divided into seven groups. Group 1 was the normal control. Oral fluoxetine was administered at 10 mg/kg body weight to groups 2, 3, 4 and 5. In addition, groups 3 and 4 were also co-administered oral baicalin (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, respectively) while group 5 received silymarin (100 mg/kg), a standard hepatoprotective compound for comparison. Groups 6 and 7 were used as a positive control for baicalin (100 mg/kg) and silymarin (100 mg/kg), respectively. All treatments were carried out for 28 d. After sacrifice of the rats, biomarkers of oxidative stress [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), malondialdehyde (MDA)], and liver injury [alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein, albumin, bilirubin] were studied in serum and tissue using standard protocols and diagnostic kits. Inflammatory markers [tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and interferon (IFN)-γ] in serum were evaluated using ELISA-based kits. The effect of baicalin on liver was also analyzed by histopathological examination of tissue sections.

RESULTS

Fluoxetine-treated rats showed elevated levels of the serum liver function markers (total bilirubin, ALT, AST, and ALP) and inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IFN-γ), with a decline in total protein and albumin levels. Biochemical markers of oxidative stress such as SOD, CAT, GST, GSH, MDA and AOPP in the liver tissue homogenate were also altered indicating a surge in reactive oxygen species leading to oxidative damage. Histological examination of liver tissue also showed degeneration of hepatocytes. Concurrent administration of baicalin (50 and 100 mg/kg) restored the biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation and hepatic damage in serum as well as in liver tissues to near normal levels.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that long-term treatment with fluoxetine leads to oxidative stress via the formation of free radicals that consequently cause inflammation and liver damage. Concurrent treatment with baicalin alleviated fluoxetine-induced hepatotoxicity and liver injury by regulating oxidative stress and inflammation.

Baicalin; a promising chemopreventive agent, enhances the antitumor effect of 5-FU against breast cancer and inhibits tumor growth and angiogenesis in Ehrlich solid tumor

Despite considerable advances in cancer treatment, chemotherapy remains a cornerstone in breast cancer therapy. Therefore, reducing chemoresistance and adverse effects of chemotherapy is a priority. In this regard, Baicalin (BA) is the dominant natural flavonoid extracted from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis showed fascinating antitumor activity in many types of cancers, including breast cancer. The present study aimed to explore the chemopreventive and antitumor action of baicalin alone and in combination with 5-FU in addition to its ability to enhance the antitumor effect of 5-FU on breast cancer using the Ehrlich solid tumor-mice model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 70 female mice were divided into seven groups (1st group, saline group; 2nd group, DMSO group; 3rd group, BA+EST group; 4th group, EST group; 5th group, EST+5-FU; 6th group, EST+BA group; 7th group, EST+5-FU+BA).tumors were assessed by weight and histopathological examination. Inflammation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis were examined by ELISA, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemical examinations.

RESULTS

showed that pre-treatment with baicalin and treatment with baicalin and/or 5-FU significantly reduced inflammation and angiogenesis indicated by suppression of NF-kB/ IL-1β and VEGF amplification loop with marked elevation in apoptosis indicated by up-regulation of apoptotic caspase-3, pro-apoptotic p53, Bax and downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

BA is a promising preventive or adjuvant therapy in breast cancer treatment with 5-FU mainly via cooperative inhibition of inflammation, angiogenesis, and triggering apoptotic cell death.

Protective Effects of Sesamol against Liver Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in High-Fat Diet-Induced Hepatic Steatosis

Chronic high-fat diet (HFD) is associated with the onset and progression of hepatic steatosis, and oxidative stress is highly involved in this process. The potential role of sesamol (SEM) against oxidative stress and inflammation at the transcriptional level in a mice model of hepatic steatosis is not known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the scavenging effects of SEM towards reactive oxygen generated by lipid accumulation in the liver of obese mice and to explore the mechanisms of protection. Markers of oxidative stress, vital enzymes involved in stimulating oxidative stress or inflammation, and nuclear transcription of Nrf2 were examined. Our results showed that SEM significantly inhibited the activity of the HFD-induced hepatic enzymes CYP2E1 and NOX2, associated with oxidative stress generation. Additionally, SEM reversed HFD-induced activation of NF-κB, a redox-sensitive transcription factor, and attenuated the expression of hepatic TNF-α, a proinflammatory molecule. Moreover, SEM enhanced HFD-induced hepatic Nrf2 nuclear transcription and increased the levels of its downstream target genes Ho1 and Nqo1, which indicated antiinflammation and antioxidant properties. Our study suggests that chronic HFD led to hepatic steatosis, while SEM exhibited protective effects on the liver by counteracting the oxidative stress and inflammation induced by HFD. The underlying mechanism might involve multiple pathways at the transcriptional level; the antioxidant defense mechanism was in partly mediated by the upregulation of Nrf2.

Baicalin alleviates Mycoplasma gallisepticum-induced oxidative stress and inflammation via modulating NLRP3 inflammasome-autophagy pathway

Baicalin is a well-known flavonoid compound, possess therapeutic potential against inflammatory diseases. Previous studies reported that Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) induced inflammatory response and immune dysregulation inside the host body. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of baicalin against MG-infected chicken-like macrophages (HD11 cells) are still illusive. Oxidant status and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by ELISA assays and flow cytometry respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_M) was evaluated by immunofluorescence microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy was used for ultrastructural analysis. The hallmarks of inflammation and autophagy were determined by western blotting. Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were significantly enhanced in the MG-infected HD11 cells. MG infection caused disruption in the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_M) compared to the control conditions. Meanwhile, baicalin treatment reduced MG-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative stress and alleviated the disruption in ΔΨ_M. The activities of inflammatory markers were significantly enhanced in the MG-infected HD11 cells. Increased protein expressions of TLR-2-NF-κB pathway, NLRP3-inflammasome and autophagy-related proteins were detected in the MG-infected HD11 cells. Besides, baicalin treatment significantly reduced the protein expressions of TLR-2-NF-κB pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome. While, the autophagy-related proteins were significantly enhanced with baicalin treatment in a dose-dependent manner in the MG-infected HD11 cells. The results showed that baicalin prevented HD11 cells from MG-induced oxidative stress and inflammation via the opposite modulation of TLR-2-NF-κB-mediated NLRP3-inflammasome pathway and autophagy, and baicalin could be a promising candidate for the prevention of inflammatory effects caused by MG-infection in macrophages.

Baicalin Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Diabetic Nephropathy via Nrf2 and MAPK Signaling Pathway

Background

Oxidative stress and inflammation play essential roles in the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Baicalin (BAI), a natural flavonoid, has been showed to have a renoprotective effect in various renal diseases. However, its underlying mechanisms in DN remain unclear. In this study, we explored the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of BAI on DN using a spontaneous DN model.

Methods

The protective effects of BAI on DN have been evaluated by detecting DN-related biochemical indicators, kidney histopathology and cell apoptosis. After that, we examined the level of renal oxidative stress and inflammation to explain BAI’s renoprotective effects. Then, Nrf2 pathway was tested to clarify its antioxidant activity, and kidney transcriptomics was conducted to elucidate its anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, Western blot was applied for final mechanism verification.

Results

Our results found that BAI effectively ameliorated diabetic conditions, proteinuria, renal histopathological changes and cell apoptosis in DN. BAI significantly improved the kidney levels of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Meanwhile, the infiltration of inflammatory cells including T-lymphocytes, T-helper cells, neutrophils and macrophages, and the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 and TNFα) were also obviously inhibited by BAI. Afterward, Western blot found that BAI significantly activated Nrf2 signaling and increased the expression of downstream antioxidant enzymes (HO-1, NQO-1). Kidney transcriptomics revealed that the inhibition of MAPK signaling pathway may contribute to BAI’s anti-inflammatory activity, which has also been verified in later experiment. BAI treatment did obviously inhibit the activation of canonical pro-inflammatory signaling pathway MAPK family, such as Erk1/2, JNK and P38.

Conclusion

In summary, our data demonstrated that BAI can treat DN by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation, and its underlying mechanisms were associated with the activation of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling pathway and the inhibition of MAPK-mediated inflammatory signaling pathway.

Telmisartan alleviates alcohol-induced liver injury by activation of PPAR-γ/ Nrf-2 crosstalk in mice

Excessive consumption of alcohol may induce severe liver damage, in part via oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which implicates these processes as potential therapeutic approaches. Prior literature has shown that Telmisartan (TEL) may provide protective effects, presumably mediated by its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The purpose of this study was to determine TEL's hepatoprotective effects and to identify its possible curative mechanisms in alcoholic liver disease. A mouse chronic alcohol plus binge feedings model was used in the current study for induction of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Our results showed that TEL (10 mg/kg/day) has the ability to reduce serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). TEL also increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) with concomitant reduction of nitric oxide (NO) malonaldehyde (MDA) in the liver homogenate. Moreover, TEL downregulated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression and decreased liver content of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). These anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities were associated with a significant increase in the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors -γ (PPAR-γ), and heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox-1). In conclusion, TEL's hepatoprotective effects against ALD may be attributable to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities which may be in part via the modulation of PPAR-γ/ Nrf-2/ NF-κB crosstalk.

Protective Mechanism of Edible Food Plants against Alcoholic Liver Disease with Special Mention to Polyphenolic Compounds

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one type of liver disease, causing a global healthcare problem and mortality. The liver undergoes tissue damage by chronic alcohol consumption because it is the main site for metabolism of ethanol. Chronic alcohol exposure progresses from alcoholic fatty liver (AFL) to alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), which further lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular cancer. Therapeutic interventions to combat ALD are very limited such as use of corticosteroids. However, these therapeutic drugs are not effective for long-term usage. Therefore, additional effective and safe therapies to cope with ALD are urgently needed. Previous studies confirmed that edible food plants and their bioactive compounds exert a protective effect against ALD. In this review article, we summarized the hepatoprotective potential of edible food plants and their bioactive compounds. The underlying mechanism for the prevention of ALD by edible food plants was as follows: anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, lipid regulation, inhibition of apoptosis, gut microbiota composition modulation, and anti-fibrosis.

The Keap1-Nrf2 System: A Mediator between Oxidative Stress and Aging

Oxidative stress, a term that describes the imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, leads to the disruption of redox signals and causes molecular damage. Increased oxidative stress from diverse sources has been implicated in most senescence-related diseases and in aging itself. The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- (Keap1-) nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) system can be used to monitor oxidative stress; Keap1-Nrf2 is closely associated with aging and controls the transcription of multiple antioxidant enzymes. Simultaneously, Keap1-Nrf2 signaling is also modulated by a more complex regulatory network, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt), protein kinase C, and mitogen-activated protein kinase. This review presents more information on aging-related molecular mechanisms involving Keap1-Nrf2. Furthermore, we highlight several major signals involved in Nrf2 unbinding from Keap1, including cysteine modification of Keap1 and phosphorylation of Nrf2, PI3K/Akt/glycogen synthase kinase 3β, sequestosome 1, Bach1, and c-Myc. Additionally, we discuss the direct interaction between Keap1-Nrf2 and the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. In summary, we focus on recent progress in research on the Keap1-Nrf2 system involving oxidative stress and aging, providing an empirical basis for the development of antiaging drugs.

Metformin and Probiotics Interplay in Amelioration of Ethanol-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in an In Vitro and In Vivo Model of Hepatic Injury

Alcohol-induced liver injury implicates inflammation and oxidative stress as important mediators. Despite rigorous research, there is still no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved therapies for any stage of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Interestingly, metformin (Met) and several probiotic strains possess the potential of inhibiting alcoholic liver injury. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of combination therapy using a mixture of eight strains of lactic acid-producing bacteria, commercialized as Visbiome® (V) and Met in preventing the ethanol-induced hepatic injury using in vitro and in vivo models. Human HepG2 cells and male Wistar rats were exposed to ethanol and simultaneously treated with probiotic V or Met alone as well as in combination. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers, inflammatory markers, lipid metabolism, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and oxidative stress were evaluated, using qRT-PCR, Oil red O staining, fluorimetry, and HPLC. In vitro, probiotic V and Met in combination prevented ethanol-induced cellular injury, ER stress, oxidative stress, and regulated lipid metabolism as well as inflammatory response in HepG2 cells. Probiotic V and Met also promoted macrophage polarization towards the M2 phenotype in ethanol-exposed RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. In vivo, combined administration of probiotic V and Met ameliorated the histopathological changes, inflammatory response, hepatic markers (liver enzymes), and lipid metabolism induced by ethanol. It also improved the antioxidant markers (HO-1 and Nrf-2), as seen by their protein levels in both HepG2 cells as well as liver tissue using ELISA. Hence, probiotic V may act, in addition to the Met, as an effective preventive treatment against ethanol-induced hepatic injury.

New insight and potential therapy for NAFLD: CYP2E1 and flavonoids

Over the years, the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has increased year by year; however, due to its complicated pathogenesis, there is no effective treatment so far. It is reported that Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) plays an indispensable role in the development of NAFLD, and numerous studies have shown that flavonoids have a hepatoprotective effect and can exert a beneficial effect on NAFLD by regulating the activity of CYP2E1. Therefore, flavonoids may become effective drugs for the treatment of NAFLD in the future. This prompted us to review the research progress of the pathological mechanism of NAFLD and the impact of CYP2E1 activity changes during the pathological process, and to summarize the protective effect of flavonoids against CYP2E1 activity.

Baicalin and the liver-gut system: Pharmacological bases explaining its therapeutic effects

With the development of high-throughput screening and bioinformatics technology, natural products with a range of pharmacological targets in multiple diseases have become important sources of new drug discovery. These compounds are derived from various plants, including the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which is often used as a traditional Chinese herb named Huangqin, a popular medication used for thousands of years in China. Many studies have shown that baicalin, an extract from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, exerts various protective effects on liver and gut diseases. Baicalin plays a therapeutic role mainly by mediating downstream apoptosis and immune response pathways induced by upstream oxidative stress and inflammation. During oxidative stress regulation, PI3K/Akt/NRF2, Keap-1, NF-κB and HO-1 are key factors associated with the healing effects of baicalin on NAFLD/NASH, ulcerative colitis and cholestasis. In the inflammatory response, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MIP-2 and MIP-1α are involved in the alleviation of NAFLD/NASH, cholestasis and liver fibrosis by baicalin, as are TGF-β1/Smads, STAT3 and NF-κB. Regarding the apoptosis pathway, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 are key factors related to the suppression of hepatocellular carcinoma and attenuation of liver injury and colorectal cancer. In addition to immune regulation, PD-1/PDL-1 and TLR4-NF-κB are correlated with the alleviation of hepatocellular carcinoma, ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer by baicalin. Moreover, baicalin regulates intestinal flora by promoting the production of SCFAs. Furthermore, BA is involved in the interactions of the liver-gut axis by regulating TGR5, FXR, bile acids and the microbiota. In general, a comprehensive analysis of this natural compound was conducted to determine the mechanism by which it regulates bile acid metabolism, the intestinal flora and related signaling pathways, providing new insights into the pharmacological effects of baicalin. The mechanism linking the liver and gut systems needs to be elucidated to draw attention to its great clinical importance.

Pharmaceutical Advantages of GenoTX-407, A Combination of Extracts from Scutellaria baicalensis Root and Magnolia officinalis Bark

Background: Extracts of Scutellaria baicalensis root (SBR) and Magnolia officinalis barks (MOB) possess significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties; however, these also exert adverse effects such as cytotoxicity. To overcome the adverse effects, we formulated a combination of the extracts, named GenoTX-407, with SBR and MOB extracts mixed in 5:1 ratio. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities of SBR and MOB extracts and GenoTX-407 were evaluated. Methods: To optimize the extraction conditions of SBR and MOB, different ethanol concentrations and extraction times and treatments of the extracts with different solvents for varying time periods were tested. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed via NO scavenging assay and analysis of anti-inflammatory activity-related gene expression in RAW 264.7 cells. Agar disk diffusion and microdilution assays were used to determine the antimicrobial activity. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH assay and analyses of peroxidation and antioxidant-related protein expression in HeLa cells. Results: Extraction with 0% ethanol for 2 h and 1.5% phosphoric acid for 0.5 h yielded maximum SBR extracts. For MOB, 50% ethanol extraction for 2 h followed by further extraction in hexane for 0.5 h yielded the highest extracts. SBR (46.1 ± 0.9 %) and MOB (48.9 ± 1.0 %) extracts effectively inhibited NO production, and dose-dependently reduced the expression of TNF-α, iNOS, NF-κB, COX2, and IL-6. MOB and GenoTX-407 inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Propionibacterium acnes, as evidenced in disk diffusion and microdilution assays. SBR (EC50, 107.7 µg/mL and 38.3 µg/mL), MOB (62.41 µg/mL and 72.45 µg/mL), and GenoTX-407 (7.7 µg/mL and 26.4 µg/mL) exhibited excellent antioxidant potency and could scavenge free radicals of DPPH and lipid peroxidation; additionally, SOD, CAT, HO-1, and Nrf2 expression was increased in HeLa cells. SBR showed more potent antioxidant activity than MOB. Contrastingly, MOB exhibited more potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities than SBR. Interestingly, GenoTX-407 was the most efficient in all the assays, compared with SBR and MOB. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that GenoTX-407, the combination of SBR and MOB, is a potential drug candidate exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

The effects of binge alcohol exposure on tooth movement and associated root resorption in rats

BACKGROUND

Considering the increasing prevalence of alcohol use and the growing number of orthodontic patients, some orthodontic patients might engage in binge drinking during treatment. Nevertheless, little is known about the effect of alcohol use on orthodontic treatment.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were divided into ethanol and control groups (n = 32). The rats received a single daily intraperitoneal injection of 20% (vol/vol) ethanol/saline solution at a dose of 3 g/kg of ethanol or saline for three consecutive days, and no injection was given during the remaining four days each week. All rats received orthodontic appliances to draw the maxillary first molar mesially. The rats were sacrificed at days 14 and 28, respectively. The amount of tooth movement was measured. Root resorption area was evaluated by scanning electron microscope. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining were conducted. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed to evaluate the expressions of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in tooth movement and root resorption between ethanol and control groups. The number of TRAP-positive cells was significantly higher in the ethanol group. The expression of RANKL was statistically increased in the ethanol group. In contrast, the expression of OPG was remarkably decreased in rats injected with ethanol. Moreover, the iNOS level was significantly up-regulated in the ethanol group.

CONCLUSION

The tooth movement and root resorption in rats were not affected by binge alcohol exposure.

Aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum ameliorates ethanol-induced mice liver injury via regulation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway

This study investigates the hepatoprotective effect of the aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum (AEPS) against ethanol-induced oxidative stress and explores underlying mechanisms. AEPS was administered by gavage to ICR mice for 30 days. The experimental mice were fed a 5% (v/v) ethanol on last 10 days and followed by a single megadose of ethanol (5 g/kg) to induce ethanol-induced liver injury. Pretreatment with AEPS significantly suppressed the ethanol-induced elevation of aminotransferase activities, total bilirubin (TBIL) level, triglyceride level, and alleviated liver histopathological lesions. Meanwhile, AEPS reduced the level of oxidative stress in the liver and significantly suppressed the mRNA levels of NOX1, p67phox, gp91phox, and CYP2E1. Additionally, AEPS significantly increased the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant genes and promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in mice liver. Therefore, AEPS can effectively reduce ethanol-induced liver injury via regulation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Alcohol abuse and alcoholism have become a serious public health problem worldwide. Since liver is the major organ of alcohol metabolism, the most impactful damage of alcohol occurs in the liver. Polygonatum sibiricum is a traditional Chinese galenical and it also can be used as food ingredients. Most studies have reported that polysaccharide, flavonoids and saponins are the main bioactive compounds in Polygonatum sibiricum which play important roles in anti-oxidation. AEPS is the aqueous extract of Polygonatum sibiricum and AEPS can protect the mice liver against ethanol-induced oxidative damage. Thus it can be potential antioxidants to product hepatoprotective food and the study also provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of food about Polygonatum sibiricum.

Effects of taraxasterol against ethanol and high-fat diet-induced liver injury by regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways

Studies have reported that taraxasterol (TAR) is effective in the treatment of immune liver injury and alcoholic liver injury. The mechanism of action is mainly related to the inhibition of inflammation. To determine the key molecular mechanisms for the effect of TAR on alleviating ethanol and high-fat diet-induced liver injury, pathological morphology, biochemistry, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and lipid metabolism were examined. Our results showed that TAR could inhibit ethanol-induced hepatocyte death or lipid accumulation, and suppress oxidative stress, inflammatory response and lipid metabolism disorders. More specifically, ethanol-induced TLR-4 and MyD88 inflammatory response were down-regulated, when treated with TAR. Production of CYP2E1, Nrf2 and HO-1, which produced in response to increased oxidative stress, were regulated in TAR treated, ethanol-induced hepatocytes. In summary, TAR could inhibit the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, which was related to the regulation of TAR on TLR-4/MyD88/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

Discovery and Development of Inflammatory Inhibitors from 2-Phenylchromonone (Flavone) Scaffolds

Flavonoids are compounds based on a 2-phenylchromonone scaffold. Flavonoids can be divided into flavonoids, flavonols, dihydroflavones, anthocyanins, chalcones and diflavones according to the oxidation degree of the central tricarbonyl chain, the connection position of B-ring (2-or 3-position), and whether the tricarbonyl chain forms a ring or not. There are a variety of biological activities about flavonoids, such as anti-inflammatory activity, anti-oxidation and anti-tumor activity, and the antiinflammatory activity is apparent. This paper reviews the anti-inflammatory activities and mechanisms of flavonoids and their derivatives reported in China and abroad from 2011 till date (2011-2020), in order to find a good drug scaffold for the study of anti-inflammatory activities.

Empagliflozin ameliorates ethanol-induced liver injury by modulating NF-κB/Nrf-2/PPAR-γ interplay in mice

BACKGROUND

Excessive alcohol intake contributes to severe liver damage involving oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which make them promising therapeutic targets. Previous studies have demonstrated that empagliflozin (EMPA) showed cardiovascular, renal, and cerebral benefits potentially mediated through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

AIMS

This experiment aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of EMPA on alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and the possible underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum biochemical parameters and the liver contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. Real-time qPCR was conducted to determine the gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), and heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox-1). In addition, ELISA was performed to measure tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, Nrf-2, and PPAR-γ. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was detected by immunohistochemical staining using an anti-NF-κB p65 antibody.

KEY FINDINGS

Our results revealed that the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly reduced by EMPA. EMPA also decreased the content of MDA and NO and increased the activities of SOD and GSH in liver homogenates. Moreover, EMPA inhibited the release of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, via the downregulation of NF-κB. These changes were associated with an improvement in histopathological deterioration. The protective effect of EMPA against oxidative stress and inflammation was associated with the upregulation of PPAR-γ, Nrf-2, and their target gene Hmox-1.

SIGNIFICANCE

EMPA showed protective activities against ethanol-induced liver injury by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress via modulation of the NF-κB/Nrf-2/PPAR-γ axis.

Oroxyloside ameliorates acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting JNK related apoptosis and necroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Oroxyloside is a natural flavonoid isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae) which is a Chinese herb widely used for liver diseases. However, its mechanisms on protecting against drug induced liver injury has not been investigated yet.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the protecting effects and the primary mechanisms of oroxyloside on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After a 12 h fasting period with free access to water, C57BL/6 mice were injected with APAP (300 mg/kg) intragastrically (i.g.) and 1 h later with oroxyloside (100 mg/kg, i.g.). When mice sacrificed, blood samples were collected from fundus venous plexus and liver tissues were collected. In addition, cells were incubated with 10 mM APAP alone and 10 mM APAP combined with 100 μM oroxyloside for 24 h. ELISA, TUNEL assay, qRT-PCR et al. were used to assess the effect of oroxyloside on ameliorating APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. Western bolt and immunohistochemistry were used in the signaling pathway analysis.

RESULTS

Oroxyloside administration significantly decreased the accumulations of CYP2E1, CYP1A2, IL-6, IL-1β, ALT and AST induced by APAP in vivo. In addition, oroxyloside inhibited the APAP-induced JNK related apoptosis by enhancing the antioxidant defenses, reversing ER-stress and keeping the mito-balance of liver cells in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, oroxyloside protected the liver cells from necroptosis by affecting JNK pathway.

CONCLUSION

Oroxyloside acted as a protective agent against APAP-induced liver injury through inhibiting JNK-related apoptosis and necroptosis.

Dendrobium nobile Lindl. alkaloids-mediated protection against CCl4-induced liver mitochondrial oxidative damage is dependent on the activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway

The activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated signaling pathway has been involved in the mechanisms of a variety of protective agents against cellular oxidative stress. We recently demonstrated that Dendrobium nobile Lindl. alkaloids (DNLA), the active ingredients of Dendrobium, protects mice from CCl₄-induced liver injury, dependent on the Nrf2 signaling pathway. The present study was aimed to determine whether the protection against mitochondrial oxidative damage plays a role in the mode of action of DNLA on CCl₄-induced liver injury, and to further investigate whether the DNLA-conferred mitochondrial beneficial effects is dependent on the activation of Nrf2 signaling. The CCl₄-induced acute liver injury model was employed in both wild-type (WT) and Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2^-/-) mice. The results showed that in WT mice DNLA reduced CCl₄-induced liver injury, accompanied by a significant reduction in CCl₄-induced mitochondrial oxidative stress as evidenced by a decrease in mitochondrial H₂O₂ content and MDA production, and a marked increase in GSH level and Mn-SOD activity. However, these protective effects were significantly attenuated in Nrf2^-/- mice. Furthermore, the administration of DNLA improved mitochondrial oxygen consumption, elevated ATP production, and decreased CCl₄-induced apoptosis in the WT mice, whereas the DNLA-mediated protections on mitochondrial function were diminished in the Nrf2 null mice. These results demonstrate that the improvement of mitochondrial oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in the mechanism of DNLA-mediated protection on CCl₄-induced liver injury, and this DNLA-modulated mode of action is dependent on the activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Baicalin Protects Against 17α-Ethinylestradiol-Induced Cholestasis via the Sirtuin 1/Hepatic Nuclear Receptor-1α/Farnesoid X Receptor Pathway

Estrogen-induced cholestasis (EIC) is characterized by impairment of bile flow and accumulated bile acids (BAs) in the liver, always along with the liver damage. Baicalin is a major flavonoid component of Scutellaria baicalensis, and has been used in the treatment of liver diseases for many years. However, the role of baicalin in EIC remains to be elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that baicalin showed obvious hepatoprotective effects in EIC rats by reducing serum biomarkers and increasing the bile flow rate, as well as by alleviating liver histology and restoring the abnormal composition of hepatic BAs. In addition, baicalin protected against estrogen-induced liver injury by up-regulation of the expression of hepatic efflux transporters and down-regulation of hepatic uptake transporters. Furthermore, baicalin increased the expression of hepatic BA synthase (CYP27A1) and metabolic enzymes (Bal, Baat, Sult2a1) in EIC rats. We showed that baicalin significantly inhibited hepatic inflammatory responses in EIC rats through reducing elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NF-κB. Finally, we confirmed that baicalin maintains hepatic BA homeostasis and alleviates inflammation through sirtuin 1 (Sirt1)/hepatic nuclear receptor-1α (HNF-1α)/farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling pathway. Thus, baicalin protects against estrogen-induced cholestatic liver injury, and the underlying mechanism involved is related to activation of the Sirt1/HNF-1α/FXR signaling pathway.

Natural products for the prevention and treatment of cholestasis: A review

Cholestasis is a common manifestation of decreased bile flow in various liver diseases. It results in fibrosis and even cirrhosis without proper treatment. It is believed that a wide range of factors, including transporter dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammatory damage, and immune disruption, can cause cholestasis. In recent years, natural products have drawn much attention for specific multiple-target activities in diseases. Many attempts have been made to investigate the anticholestatic effects of natural products with advanced technology. This review summarizes recent studies on the biological activities and mechanisms of recognized compounds for cholestasis treatment. Natural products, including various flavonoids, phenols, acids, quinones, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, and so on, function as comprehensive regulators via ameliorating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, restoring bile acid balance with hepatic transporters, and adjusting immune disruption. Moreover, in this progress, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, reactive oxygen species production, heme oxygenase-1, NF-κB, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase, and farnesoid X receptors are thought as main targets for the activity of natural products. Therefore, this review presents the detailed mechanisms that include multiple targets and diverse signalling pathways. Natural products are the valuable when seeking novel therapeutic agents to treat cholestatic liver diseases.

Aronia melanocarpa Prevents Alcohol-Induced Chronic Liver Injury via Regulation of Nrf2 Signaling in C57BL/6 Mice

Aronia melanocarpa (AM), which is rich in anthocyanins and procyanidins, has been reported to exert antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to systematically analyze the components of AM and explore its effects on alcohol-induced chronic liver injury in mice. A component analysis of AM revealed 17 types of fatty acids, 17 types of amino acids, 8 types of minerals, and 3 types of nucleotides. Chronic alcohol-induced liver injury was established in mice via gradient alcohol feeding over a period of 6 months, with test groups orally receiving AM in the last 6 weeks. AM administration yielded potential hepatoprotective effects by alleviating weight gain and changes in organ indexes, decreasing the ratio of alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase, reducing lipid peroxidation, enhancing antioxidant activities, decreasing oxidation-related factor levels, and regulating inflammatory cytokine levels. Histological analyses suggest that AM treatment markedly prevented organ damage in alcohol-exposed mice. Furthermore, AM activated nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf2) by downregulating the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1, resulting in elevated downstream antioxidative enzyme levels. AM activated Nrf2 via modulation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-hydroxykinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Altogether, AM prevented alcohol-induced liver injury, potentially by suppressing oxidative stress via the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Baicalin suppress growth and virulence-related factors of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in vitro and vivo

A Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) was isolated from pigs suffered in pneumonia that can't be cured by antibiotic such as methicillin and vancomycin. It was demonstrated that baicalin, an active natural compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal, possess antimicrobial activity. In the present study, we evaluate it efficacy in vitro and vivo against this isolated methicillin-resistant S.aureus (MRSA). Our findings demonstrated that baicalin can inhibit S. aureus growth in a dose-dependent manner and attenuate the biofilm formation. Scanning electron microscopies showed that cell membrane was damaged and accompany with contents leaks after treated with high concentration of baicalin. In addition, baicalin exerted inhibitory effects on the expression of S.aureus virulence-related factors. Moreover, baicalin treated mice had enhanced survival after a lethal dose of S.aureus infection compared with untreated mice. Simultaneously, the pathological tissue damage and bacterium burden were decrease in baicalin treated mice. These data demonstrated that baicalin displayed a high effectiveness in vitro and vivo against MRSA infection, suggesting that baicalin may potentially be used to treat MRSA infection.

Baicalin relieves inflammation stimulated by lipopolysaccharide via upregulating TUG1 in liver cells

Hepatitis has become a major social, health, and economic problem worldwide. Herein, we tested the beneficial influence of baicalin, a flavonoid extracted from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis, on human normal liver L-02 and THLE2 cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and possible molecular mechanisms. L-02 and THLE2 cell viability and apoptosis after LPS and/or baicalin treatment were tested using CCK-8 assay and Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis kit, respectively. qRT-PCR was used to measure the MCP-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) expressions in L-02 and THLE2 cells. sh-TUG1 was transfected to knockdown TUG1. SB203580 was used as inhibitor of p38MAPK pathway, while SP600125 was used as inhibitor of JNK pathway. We discovered that LPS stimulation caused L-02 and THLE2 cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction. Baicalin relieved the L-02 and THLE2 cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction stimulated by LPS. Moreover, LPS lowered the TUG1 expression in L-02 cells, while baicalin promoted the TUG1 expression in L-02 and L-02 and THLE2 cells, as well as inactivated p38MAPK and JNK pathways in LPS-stimulated L-02 cells. Besides, knockdown of TUG1 activated p38MAPK and JNK pathways and promoted inflammatory cytokine expression in L-02 cells. In conclusion, this study further affirmed the beneficial influences of baicalin on LPS-stimulated human normal liver cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction. Baicalin relived liver cell inflammation stimulated by LPS might be via upregulating TUG1 and then inactivating p38MAPK and JNK pathways.

Bailcalin Protects against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy through Keap1/Nrf2/AMPK-Mediated Antioxidative and Lipid-Lowering Effects

Previous studies demonstrated that Bailcalin (BAI) prevented cardiac injuries under different disease models. Whether BAI protected against type 2 diabetes mellitus- (T2DM-) associated cardiomyopathy was investigated in this study. T2DM was established by the combination of streptozotocin injection and high-fat diet in mice. BAI was administered daily for 6 months. After evaluating cardiac functions, mice hearts were removed and processed for morphological, biochemical, and molecular mechanism analyses. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCM) were isolated and treated with high glucose and palmitate (HG/Pal) for in vitro investigation. BAI significantly ameliorated T2DM-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and lipid accumulation accompanied by markedly improved cardiac functions in diabetic mice. Mechanically, BAI restored decreased phosphorylation of AMPK and enhanced expression and nuclei translocation of Nrf2. In in vitro experiments, BAI also prevented NRCM from HG/Pal-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress injuries by increasing p-AMPK and Nrf2 accumulation. The means by which BAI restored p-AMPK seemed to be related to the antioxidative effects of Nrf2 after silencing AMPK or Nrf2 in NRCM. Furthermore, BAI regulated Nrf2 by inhibiting Nrf2 ubiquitination and consequent degradation mediated by Keap1. This study showed that BAI alleviated diabetes-associated cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyocyte injuries in vivo and in vitro via Keap1/Nrf2/AMPK-mediated antioxidation and lipid-lowering effects. BAI might be a potential adjuvant drug for diabetes cardiomyopathy treatment.

Aldose Reductase Inhibitors of Plant Origin in the Prevention and Treatment of Alcoholic Liver Disease: A Minireview

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is caused by heavy alcohol consumption over a long period. Acetaldehyde-mediated toxicity, oxidative stress, and imbalance of lipid metabolism are generally considered involved in the initiation of ALD. There is an increasing requirement for alternative and natural medicine to treat ALD. Recently, aldose reductase (AR) has been reported to be involved in the development of ALD by affecting inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism. Here, we review the effect of plant-derived AR inhibitors on ALD in rodents. And we conclude that AR inhibitors of plant origin may enhance antioxidant capacity, inhibit lipid peroxidation and inflammatory cytokines expression, and activate AMP-activated protein kinase thereby subsequently suppressing alcohol-induced lipid synthesis in liver to achieve ALD protection. This review reveals that natural AR inhibitor may be potential therapeutic agent for ALD.

In vitro and in vivo activities of flavonoids – apigenin, baicalin, chrysin, scutellarin – in regulation of hypertension – a review for their possible effects in pregnancy-induced hypertension

Flavonoids and their conjugates are the most important group of natural chemical compounds in drug discovery and development. The search for pharmacological activity and new mechanisms of activity of these chemical compounds, which may inhibit mediators of inflammation and influence the structure and function of endothelial cells, can be an interesting pharmacological strategy for the prevention and adjunctive treatments of hypertension, especially induced by pregnancy. Because cardiovascular diseases have multi-factorial pathogenesis these natural chemical compounds with wide spectrum of biological activities are the most interesting source of new drugs. Extracts from one of the most popular plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi could be a very interesting source of flavonoids because of its exact content in quercetin, apigenin, chrysin and scutellarin as well as in baicalin. These flavonoids exert vasoprotective properties and many activities such as: anti-oxidative via several pathways, anti-in-flammatory, anti-ischaemic, cardioprotective and anti-hypertensive. However, there is lack of summaries of results of studies in context of potential and future application of flavonoids with determined composition and activity. Our review aims to provide a literature survey of in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo pharmacological studies of selected flavonoids (apigenin, chrysin and scutellarin, baicalin) in various models of hypertension carried out in 2008–2018.

Synergistic enhancement and hepatoprotective effect of combination of total phenolic extracts of Citrus aurantium L. and methotrexate for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder characterized by joint destruction and bone damage. Methotrexate (MTX) is recommended as the first-line disease-modifying agent for the treatment of RA. However, the clinical efficacy of MTX is limited due to its low response and side effects, especially hepatotoxicity. Total phenolic extracts of Citrus aurantium L. (TPE-CA) are rich in dietary bioactive flavonoids, which show beneficial effects on liver health and are regarded as therapeutic tools against inflammatory diseases. In this study, the efficacy of MTX, alone or in combination with TPE-CA, for the treatment of collagen-induced arthritis and protection against hepatic injury in rats was investigated. TPE-CA and MTX combination effectively reduced the inflammatory symptoms and joint damage by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Moreover, TPE-CA significantly ameliorated MTX-induced chronic hepatic injury by enhancing antioxidant enzymes activities, suppressing hepatic cytochrome P450 2E1 expression, and modulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 pathway. This combination regimen not only provided synergistic enhancement but also exhibited hepatoprotective effect against chemically induced chronic hepatotoxicity. This could be an alternative strategy to improve the low response of MTX in RA treatment.

Targeting Nrf-2 is a promising intervention approach for the prevention of ethanol-induced liver disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) remains to be a worldwide health problem. It is generally accepted that oxidative stress plays critical roles in the pathogenesis of ALD, and antioxidant therapy represents a logical strategy for the prevention and treatment of ALD. Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NFE2L2 or Nrf-2) is essential for the antioxidant responsive element (ARE)-mediated induction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and glutamate-cysteine ligase [GCL, the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of glutathione (GSH)]. Activation of Nrf-2 pathway by genetic manipulation or pharmacological agents has been demonstrated to provide protection against ALD, which suggests that targeting Nrf-2 may be a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of ALD. Herein, we review the relevant literature about the potential hepatoprotective roles of Nrf-2 activation against ALD.

Baicalin provides neuroprotection in traumatic brain injury mice model through Akt/Nrf2 pathway

Background

The neuroprotective effects of Baicalin have been confirmed in several central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, its possible effect on traumatic brain injury (TBI) model is still not clear. The present study is aimed to investigate the role and the underling mechanisms of 7-D-glucuronic acid-5,6-dihydroxyflavone (Baicalin) on TBI model.

Methods

The weight-drop model of TBI in Institute of Cancer Research mice was treated with Baicalin intraperitoneally at 30 minutes after TBI. LY294002 (LY) (a commonly used PI3K/Akt pathway inhibitor) was injected into the left ventricle at 30 minutes before TBI. All mice were euthanized at 24 hours after TBI to collect the brain tissue for a series of tests except for neurological function, which was measured at 2 hours and 1 and 3 days post-TBI.

Results

Baicalin administration significantly improved neurobehavioral function, alleviated brain edema, and reduced apoptosis-positive cells by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay accompanied with the upregulation of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and downregulation of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and cleaved-caspase 3 by Western blot. Besides, TBI-induced oxidant stress status was also restored in the Baicalin group by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) content, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the injured brain cortex. Furthermore, translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus was dramatically enhanced by Baicalin verified by immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses. Accordingly, its downstream antioxidative enzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate:quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) were also activated by Baicalin confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. However, cotreatment with Baicalin and LY could partly abolish Baicalin-induced activation of Nrf2 and its neuroprotective effects in TBI.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that Baicalin provides a neuroprotective effect in TBI mice model via activating the Akt/Nrf2 pathway.

Aqueous Extract of Pepino (Solanum muriactum Ait) Leaves Ameliorate Lipid Accumulation and Oxidative Stress in Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Chronic alcohol intake leads to alcoholic fatty liver. The pathogenesis of alcoholic fatty liver is related to abnormal lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, endotoxins, and cytokines. Solanum muricatum Ait. (Pepino) is a plant food commonly cultivated in the Penghu island, Taiwan. Previous studies indicated that the aqueous extract of pepino was able to attenuate diabetic progression via its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanisms of the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of pepino leaf in preventing alcoholic fatty liver remain unknown. In this study, Lieber–DeCarli ethanol-containing liquid diet was used to induce alcoholic hepatic injury in C57BL/6 mice. The hepatoprotective effects and the related mechanisms of aqueous extract of pepino leaf (AEPL) were examined. Our results showed that 2% AEPL treatments protected the liver from ethanol-induced injury through reducing serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) (all p < 0.05). AEPL had the effects in improving the ethanol-induced lipid accumulation in mice under histological examination. Molecular data indicated that the anti-lipid accumulation effect of AEPL might be mediated via inducing hepatic levels of phospho-adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (p-AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, and reducing the expressions of hepatic lipogenic enzymes, including sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and fatty acid synthase (FAS) (all p < 0.05). AEPL also decreased hepatic levels of thiobarbituric acid relative substances (TBARS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6, as well as the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) (all p < 0.05). Moreover, AEPL significantly elevated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione (GSH) content compared to the ethanol-fed group (all p < 0.05). Our present study suggests that AEPL could protect the liver against ethanol-induced oxidative injury and lipid accumulation.

Polydatin Protects Rat Liver against Ethanol-Induced Injury: Involvement of CYP2E1/ROS/Nrf2 and TLR4/NF-κB p65 Pathway

Excessive alcohol consumption leads to serious liver injury, associating with oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Previous study has demonstrated that polydatin (PD) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and attenuated ethanol-induced liver damage, but the research remained insufficient. Hence, this experiment aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect and potential mechanisms of PD on ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity. Our results showed that PD pretreatment dramatically decreased the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the serum, suppressed the malonaldehyde (MDA) and triglyceride (TG) content and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), andalcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), paralleled by an improvement of histopathology alterations. The protective effect of PD against oxidative stress was probably associated with downregulation of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its target gene haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Moreover, PD inhibited the release of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) via downregulating toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65. To conclude, PD pretreatment protects against ethanol-induced liver injury via suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation.