Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Actions of Methyl Jasmonate Are Associated with Metabolic Modifications in the Liver of Arthritic Rats

Effects of resveratrol on rheumatic symptoms and hepatic metabolism of arthritic rats

OBJECTIVES

Resveratrol has been studied as a potential agent for treating rheumatic conditions; however, this compound suppresses glucose synthesis and glycogen catabolism when infused in perfused livers of both arthritic and healthy rats. This study investigated the effects of oral administration of resveratrol on inflammation and liver metabolism in rats with arthritis induced by Freund's adjuvant, which serves as rheumatoid arthritis model.

METHODS

Holtzman rats, both healthy and exhibiting arthritic symptoms, were orally treated with resveratrol at doses varying from 25 to 500 mg/kg for a 5-day period preceding arthritis induction, followed by an additional 20-day period thereafter. Paw edema, arthritic score and hepatic myeloperoxidase activity were assessed to evaluate inflammation. Glycogen catabolism and gluconeogenesis from lactate were respectively evaluated in perfused livers from fed and fasted rats.

RESULTS

Resveratrol decreased the liver myeloperoxidase activity at doses above 100 mg/kg, and decreased the paw edema and delayed the arthritic score at doses above 250 mg/kg. The hepatic gluconeogenesis was decreased in arthritic rats and resveratrol did not improve it. However, resveratrol did not negatively modify the gluconeogenesis in livers of healthy and arthritic rats. Glycogen catabolism was in part and slightly modified by resveratrol in the liver of arthritic and healthy rats.

CONCLUSIONS

It is improbable that resveratrol negatively affects the liver metabolism, especially considering that gluconeogenesis is highly fragile to changes in cellular architecture. The findings suggest that resveratrol could serve as alternative for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Nevertheless, prudence is advised regarding its transient effects on liver metabolism.

Methyl jasmonate ameliorates pain-induced learning and memory impairments through regulating the expression of genes involved in neuroinflammation

OBJECTIVE

Orofacial pain with high prevalence is one of the substantial human health issues. The importance of this matter became more apparent when it was revealed that orofacial pain, directly and indirectly, affects cognition performances. Currently, researchers have focused on investigating pharmaceutics to alleviate pain and ameliorate its subsequent cognitive impairments.

DESIGN

In this study, the rats were first treated with the central administration of methyl jasmonate (MeJA), which is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bio-compound. After 20 min, orofacial pain was induced in the rats by the injection of capsaicin in their dental pulp. Subsequently, the animals' pain behaviors were analyzed, and the effects of pain and MeJA treatments on rats learning and memory were evaluated/compared using the Morris water maze (MWM) test. In addition, the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β, BDNF, and COX-2 genes in the rats' hippocampus was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Experiencing orofacial pain resulted in a significant decline in the rats learning and memory. However, the central administration of 20 μg/rat of MeJA effectively mitigated these impairments. In the MWM, the performance of the MeJA-treated rats showed a two- to threefold improvement compared to the nontreated ones. Moreover, in the hippocampus of pain-induced rats, the expression of pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2 significantly increased, whereas the BDNF expression decreased. In contrast, MeJA downregulated the pro-inflammatory factors and upregulated the BDNF by more than 50%.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the notable antinociceptive potential of MeJA and its ability to inhibit pain-induced learning and memory dysfunction through its anti-inflammatory effect.

Investigation of the mechanism of action of chemical constituents of celery seed against gout disease using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations

Celery (Apium graveolens L.) has long been considered as a potential herbal medicine for the prevention and treatment of gout. However, the relationship between the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of this medicinal plant has not been fully investigated yet. Therefore, this study aims to apply network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics to explore the relationship between the chemical constituents of celery seed and its biological effects in the treatment of gout. Network pharmacology was built and analyzed based on the data collected from GeneCards, OMIM databases and SwissTargetPrediction web server using Cytoscape 3.9.0 software. The GO and KEGG pathway analysis of the potential targets of celery seed related to gout disease was performed using the ShinyGO v0.75 app. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics were carried out using Autodock vina and NAMD 2.14 software, respectively. The network analysis identified 16 active compounds and thirteen key targets of celery seed in the treatment of gout. The GO analysis and the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested that the mechanism of action of the chemical constituents of celery seed might be involved in several pathways, notably the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway, respectively. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics revealed that apiumetin might be an important chemical that plays a key role in the pharmacological effect of celery seed. These results might be useful to select the Q-markers to control the quality of the products from celery seeds.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Methyl Jasmonate Modulates Feeding Behaviors and Hypothalamic Expression of the Orexin 1 Receptor in Rats

Objectives

Active plant ingredients have been successfully used in modern medicine to control appetite and energy hemostasis. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of the phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MJ) on food-related behaviors in rats.

Materials and Methods

Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into different groups (7 rats) and infused intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) with MJ vehicle (DMSO) or MJ (2.5, 5 and 10 μg/rat). Then, the individual rats were placed in an automated open field-like apparatus to assess a 12-h food-related activity in light and dark times. After behavioral tests, immunofluorescence staining of the orexin 1 receptor (Orx1R) was studied in the hypothalamus of rats.

Results

MJ (2.5, 5, and 10 μg/rat) administration significantly decreased food intake in the light and dark phases compared with the control group. Moreover, all the MJ-treated groups exhibited a decrease in visits to food containers at the light and dark times (p < 0.001). In addition, rats infused with MJ at 5 μg and 10 μg spent less time in the ports of food containers in the light and dark phases in comparison with control rats. Time in zone-related to food and locomotor activity was significantly decreased in the MJ (5 μg) groups during the light time and in all MJ-injected groups in the dark time. Moreover, hypothalamic expression of Orx1R in rats treated with MJ (5 μg) was significantly lower as compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Overall, the results indicated the potential of MJ to modulate feeding-related behavior and Orx1R expression in the hypothalamus of rats.

Interkingdom Hormonal Regulations between Plants and Animals Provide New Insight into Food Safety

Food safety has become an attractive topic among consumers. Raw material production for food is also a focus of social attention. As hormones are widely used in agriculture and human disease control, consumers' concerns about the safety of hormone agents have never disappeared. The present review focuses on the interkingdom regulations of exogenous animal hormones in plants and phytohormones in animals, including physiology and stress resistance. We summarize these interactions to give the public, researchers, and policymakers some guidance and suggestions. Accumulated evidence demonstrates comprehensive hormonal regulation across plants and animals. Animal hormones, interacting with phytohormones, help regulate plant development and enhance environmental resistance. Correspondingly, phytohormones may also cause damage to the reproductive and urinary systems of animals. Notably, the disease-resistant role of phytohormones is revealed against neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. These resistances derive from the control for abnormal cell cycle, energy balance, and activity of enzymes. Further exploration of these cross-kingdom mechanisms would surely be of greater benefit to human health and agriculture development.

EZH2 activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling in human uterine fibroids, which is inhibited by the natural compound methyl jasmonate

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the link between EZH2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its role in uterine fibroids (UFs) pathogenesis and explore the potential effect of natural compound methyl jasmonate (MJ) against UFs.

DESIGN

EZH2 overexpression or inhibition was achieved in human uterine leiomyoma (HuLM) cells using EZH2-expressing adenovirus or chemical EZH2 inhibitor (DZNep), respectively. The HuLM and normal uterine smooth muscle cells were treated with 0.1-3 mM of MJ, and several experiments were employed.

SETTING

Laboratory study.

PATIENTS(S)

None.

INTERVENTION(S)

Methyl jasmonate.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Protein expression of EZH2, β-catenin, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was measured by Western blot as well as gene expression alterations of Wnt ligands (Wnt5A, Wnt5b, and Wnt9A), WISP1, CTNNB1, and its responsive gene PITX2 using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The protein and ribonucleic acid (RNA) levels of several markers were measured in MJ-treated or untreated HuLM cells, including EZH2 and β-catenin, extracellular matrix markers collagen type 1 (COL1A1) and fibronectin (FN), proliferation markers cyclin D1 (CCND1) and PCNA, tumor suppressor marker p21, and apoptotic markers (BAX, cytochrome c, and cleaved caspase 3).

RESULT(S)

EZH2 overexpression significantly increased the gene expression of several Wnt ligands (PITX2, WISP1, WNT5A, WNT5B, and WNT9A), which increased nuclear translocation of β-catenin and PCNA and eventually HuLM cell proliferation. EZH2 inhibition blocked Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation where the aforementioned genes significantly decreased as well as PCNA, cyclin D1, and PITX2 protein expression compared with those in untreated HuLM. Methyl jasmonate showed a potent antiproliferative effect on HuLM cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Interestingly, the dose range (0.1-0.5 mM) showed a selective growth inhibitory effect on HuLM cells, not on normal uterine smooth muscle cells. Methyl jasmonate treatment at 0.5 mM for 24 hours significantly decreased both protein and RNA levels of EZH2, β-catenin, COL1A1, FN, CCND1, PCNA, WISP1, and PITX2 but increased the protein levels of p21, BAX, cytochrome, c and cleaved caspase 3 compared with untreated HuLM. Methyl jasmonate-treated cells exhibited down-regulation in the RNA expression of 36 genes, including CTNNB1, CCND1, Wnt5A, Wnt5B, and Wnt9A, and up-regulation in the expression of 34 genes, including Wnt antagonist genes WIF1, PRICKlE1, and DKK1 compared with control, confirming the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction results.

CONCLUSION(S)

Our studies provide a novel link between EZH2 and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in UFs. Targeting EZH2 with MJ interferes with the activation of wnt/β-catenin signaling in our model. Methyl jasmonate may offer a promising therapeutic option as a nonhormonal and cost-effective treatment against UFs with favorable clinical utility, pending proven safe and efficient in human clinical trials.

The antidiabetic effect of methanolic extract of Holarrhena pubescens seeds is mediated through multiple mechanisms of action

Holarrhena pubescens is widely used in Indian and Chinese medicine in the treatment of diabetes. The current work determined the oral hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects of seed extract in rats. The probable mechanism of action was evaluated in-vitro by α - glucosidase inhibition, glucose metabolism in insulinoma (INS-1) cells to reflect secretion of insulin, and protein glycation inhibition. Its potential for herb-drug interaction was evaluated in the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition assay. The seed extract increased serum insulin levels and reduced serum blood glucose levels in the oral glucose tolerance test. It also reduced the serum glucose levels in streptozocin-induced diabetes. The extract also inhibited α -glucosidase enzyme activity and demonstrated that it can increase the secretion of insulin from INS to 1-rat insulinoma cell line cells in-vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. However, it had a very weak inhibitory effect on protein glycation and it did not affect the activity of CYP3A4. The results of the study showed that H. pubescens seed extract increases insulin secretion and inhibits glucose absorption both in-vivo and in-vitro with a weak protein glycation inhibitory effect. The herb is devoid of CYP3A4 inhibitory effect indicating that it may not have pharmacokinetic interaction with the drug metabolized by this enzyme.

Inhibition of Gluconeogenesis by Boldine in the Perfused Liver: Therapeutical Implication for Glycemic Control

The alkaloid boldine occurs in the Chilean boldo tree (Peumus boldus). It acts as a free radical scavenger and controls glycemia in diabetic rats. Various mechanisms have been proposed for this effect, including inhibited glucose absorption, stimulated insulin secretion, and increased expression of genes involved in glycemic control. Direct effects on glucose synthesis and degradation were not yet measured. To fill this gap, the present study is aimed at ensuring several metabolic pathways linked to glucose metabolism (e.g., gluconeogenesis) in the isolated perfused rat liver. In order to address mechanistic issues, energy transduction in isolated mitochondria and activities of gluconeogenic key enzymes in tissue preparations were also measured. Boldine diminished mitochondrial ROS generation, with no effect on energy transduction in isolated mitochondria. It inhibited, however, at least three enzymes of the gluconeogenic pathway, namely, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, fructose-bisphosphatase-1, and glucose 6-phosphatase, starting at concentrations below 50 μM. Consistently, in the perfused liver, boldine decreased lactate-, alanine-, and fructose-driven gluconeogenesis with IC₅₀ values of 71.9, 85.2, and 83.6 μM, respectively. Conversely, the compound also increased glycolysis from glycogen-derived glucosyl units. The hepatic ATP content was not affected by boldine. It is proposed that the direct inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis by boldine, combined with the increase of glycolysis, could be an important event behind the diminished hyperglycemia observed in boldine-treated diabetic rats.

Therapeutic Potential of Plant Oxylipins

For immobile plants, the main means of protection against adverse environmental factors is the biosynthesis of various secondary (specialized) metabolites. The extreme diversity and high biological activity of these metabolites determine the researchers' interest in plants as a source of therapeutic agents. Oxylipins, oxygenated derivatives of fatty acids, are particularly promising in this regard. Plant oxylipins, which are characterized by a diversity of chemical structures, can exert protective and therapeutic properties in animal cells. While the therapeutic potential of some classes of plant oxylipins, such as jasmonates and acetylenic oxylipins, has been analyzed thoroughly, other oxylipins are barely studied in this regard. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic potential of all major classes of plant oxylipins, including derivatives of acetylenic fatty acids, jasmonates, six- and nine-carbon aldehydes, oxy-, epoxy-, and hydroxy-derivatives of fatty acids, as well as spontaneously formed phytoprostanes and phytofurans. The presented analysis will provide an impetus for further research investigating the beneficial properties of these secondary metabolites and bringing them closer to practical applications.

Resveratrol biotransformation and actions on the liver metabolism of healthy and arthritic rats

AIMS

To investigate the effects of resveratrol on glycogen catabolism and gluconeogenesis in perfused livers of healthy and arthritic rats. The actions of resveratrol-3-O-glucuronide (R3G) and the biotransformation of resveratrol into R3G was further evaluated in the livers.

MAIN METHODS

arthritis was induced with Freund's adjuvant. Resveratrol at concentrations of 10, 25, 50, 100 and 200 μM and 200 μM R3G were introduced in perfused livers. Resveratrol and metabolites were measured in the outflowing perfusate. Respiration of isolated mitochondria and activity of gluconeogenic enzymes were also evaluated in the livers.

KEY FINDINGS

resveratrol inhibited glycogen catabolism when infused at concentrations above 50 μM and gluconeogenesis even at 10 μM in both healthy and arthritic rat livers, but more sensitive in these latter. Resveratrol above 100 μM inhibited ADP-stimulated respiration and the activities of NADH- and succinate-oxidases in mitochondria, which were partially responsible for gluconeogenesis inhibition. Pyruvate carboxylase activity was inhibited by 25 μM resveratrol and should inhibit gluconeogenesis already at low concentrations. Resveratrol was significantly metabolized to R3G in healthy rat livers, however, R3G formation was lower in arthritic rat livers. The latter must be in part a consequence of a lower glucose disposal for glucuronidation. When compared to resveratrol, R3G inhibited gluconeogenesis in a lower extension and glycogen catabolism in a higher extension.

SIGNIFICANCE

the effects of resveratrol and R3G tended to be transitory and existed only when the resveratrol is present in the organ, however, they should be considered because significant serum concentrations of both are found after oral ingestion of resveratrol.

Structural characterization of Poria cocos oligosaccharides and their effects on the hepatic metabolome in high-fat diet-fed mice

In this study, novel Poria cocos oligosaccharides (PCO) were prepared by enzymatic degradation, and their polymerization degree was determined to be 2-6 by LC-MS analysis. By monosaccharide composition analysis, methylation assay, FT-IR, and NMR analysis, PCO were deduced to contain the sugar residues of (1 → 2)-β-D-Glcp, (1 → 2)-α-D-Glcp, and (1 → 4)-α-D-Glcp. Using an HFD-fed mouse model with dyslipidemia, PCO could significantly suppress lipid metabolism disorders, characterized by the reduction of lipid accumulation and inflammatory responses in the blood and liver tissues. Based on the non-targeted metabolomic analysis and Spearman's correlation analysis, we presume that the preventive effect of PCO on dyslipidemia might contribute to the reversal of changed metabolic pathways, which were related to the metabolisms of glycerophospholipids, unsaturated fatty acids, amino acids, choline, bile acids, tryptophan, sphingolipids, and glutathione. Our research shed light on the potential application of PCO for the treatment of dyslipidemia.

Analysis of Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and Immune Function During the Development of Collagen-Induced Arthritis

The liver is essential for metabolic and immune functions and has been linked to systemic inflammatory diseases. However, the role of the liver is still elusive during the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), although there have been indeed some reports. We used label-free quantitative proteomics and experimental verification in this study to reveal the hepatic lipid metabolism and immune function during collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) development. The proteomics results revealed that the role of the liver differs in different phases of CIA rats. In terms of specific performance, hepatic lipid metabolism, which is primarily concerned with cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and phospholipid, was significantly influenced in the CIA induction phase, whereas the immune function, which includes binding of granulocytes, adhesion of immune cells, etc., was affected considerably at the peak phase of CIA rats compared to normal rats. Finally, the hepatic dynamic changes in CIA rats were further confirmed using targeted metabolomics and ELISA. We found that most fatty acids of the liver in the CIA induction phase were significantly decreased, and proteins related to complement activation and migration or adhesion of immune cells including C3, MMP-8, CTSZ, and S100A9 were significantly increased in the liver of CIA rats in the peak phase. Our findings indicated that the lipid metabolism and immune function of the liver were influenced in CIA rats. Thus, the conditions of the liver during RA development should be considered in therapeutic and nutritional interventions.

Dietary supplementation with inosine-5'-monophosphate improves the functional, energetic, and antioxidant status of liver and muscle growth in pigs

Inosine 5'-monophosphate (5'-IMP) is an essential nucleotide for de novo nucleotide biosynthesis and metabolism of energy, proteins, and antioxidants. Nucleotides are conditionally essential, as they cannot be produced sufficiently rapidly to meet the needs of the body in situations of oxidative stress or rapid muscle growth. A deficient intake of nucleotides can result in decreased ATP and GTP synthesis and impaired metabolism. We demonstrated that supplementation of finishing pig diets with 5'-IMP reduces the relative weight of the liver, and increases oxygen consumption during mitochondrial respiration without changing the ADP/O ratio, indicating an increase in the respiratory efficiency of liver mitochondria. We also observed a reduction in liver lipid peroxidation and an increase in muscle creatine. Moreover, 5'IMP supplementation increases slaughter weight, lean meat yield, sarcomere length, and backfat thickness in finishing barrows, demonstrating influence on protein metabolism. We suggest that 5'-IMP supplementation increase the mitochondrial respiratory capacity when the liver metabolic activity is stimulated, enhances antioxidant defense, and promotes muscle growth in finishing barrows.

Alpha-tocopherol-loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles improve the inflammation and systemic oxidative stress of arthritic rats

Background and aim

The present study investigated the effects of orally administered α-tocopherol-loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles on the articular inflammation and systemic oxidative status of middle-aged Holtzman rats with Freund's adjuvant-induced polyarthritis, a model for rheumatoid arthritis. Intraperitoneally administered free α-tocopherol provided the reference for comparison.

Experimental procedure

Two protocols of treatment were followed: intraperitoneal administration of free α-tocopherol (100 mg/kg i.p.) or oral administration of free and nanoencapsulated α-tocopherol (100 mg/kg p.o.). Animals were treated during 18 days after arthritis induction.

Results

Free (i.p.) and encapsulated α-tocopherol decreased the hind paws edema, the leukocytes infiltration into femorotibial joints and the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the tibial anterior muscle of arthritic rats, but the encapsulated compound was more effective. Free (i.p.) and encapsulated α-tocopherol decreased the high levels of reactive oxygen species in the brain and liver, but only the encapsulated compound decreased the levels of protein carbonyl groups in these organs. Both free (i.p.) and encapsulated α-tocopherol increased the α-tocopherol levels and the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione in these organs.

Conclusion

Both intraperitoneally administered free α-tocopherol and orally administered encapsulated α-tocopherol effectively improved inflammation and systemic oxidative stress in middle-aged arthritic rats. However, the encapsulated form should be preferred because the oral administration route does not be linked to the evident discomfort that is caused in general by injectable medicaments. Consequently, α-tocopherol-loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles may be a promising adjuvant to the most current approaches aiming at rheumatoid arthritis therapy.

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Oxidative stress is systemically increased in rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis.

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Arthritic rats were orally treated with α-tocopherol-loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles.

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Treatment decreased the paw edema and articular inflammation of arthritic rats.

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Treatment improved the oxidative stress in the liver and brain arthritic rats.

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The content of α-tocopherol was increased in the brain and liver of treated rats.

2-Deoxy-D-glucose Alleviates Collagen-Induced Arthritis of Rats and Is Accompanied by Metabolic Regulation of the Spleen and Liver

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is significantly associated with glycolysis. This study used 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG), an inhibitor of glycolysis, to treat rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and investigate the metabolic regulatory mechanism of glycolysis in the disease. 2-DG significantly alleviated CIA. Metabolomics and transcriptomics, as well as their integrative analysis, detected significant changes in the pathways of bile secretion, cholesterol and linoleic acid metabolism in the plasma, liver and spleen during the CIA process and the opposite changes following 2-DG treatment, whereas the expression of the genes regulating these metabolic pathways were changed only in the spleen. In the rat liver, levels of (S)-5-diphosphomevalonic acid in the terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway were significantly decreased during CIA progression and increased following 2-DG treatment, and levels of taurochenodeoxycholic acid in the pentose and glucuronate interconversions pathway showed the opposite results. In the spleen, levels of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol glucuronide in bile secretion and 12(S)-leukotriene B4 in arachidonic acid metabolism were significantly decreased during CIA progression and increased following 2-DG treatment. The changes in the gene-metabolite network of bile secretion in the spleen correlated with a decreased plasma L-acetylcarnitine level in CIA rats and an increase following 2-DG treatment. Our analysis suggests the involvement of spleen and liver metabolism in CIA under the control of glycolysis.

Jasmonate Compounds and Their Derivatives in the Regulation of the Neoplastic Processes

Cancer is a serious problem in modern medicine, mainly due to the insufficient effectiveness of currently available therapies. There is a particular interest in compounds of natural origin, which can be used in the prophylaxis, as well as in the treatment and support of cancer treatment. One such compound is jasmonic acid (3-oxo-2-(pent-2'-enyl)cyclopentane acetic acid; isolated active form: trans-(-)-(3R,7R)- and cis-(+)-(3R,7S)-jasmonic acid) and its derivatives, which, due to their wide range of biological activities, are also proposed as potential therapeutic agents. Therefore, a review of literature data on the biological activity of jasmonates was prepared, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms of jasmonate action in neoplastic diseases. The anti-tumor activity of jasmonate compounds is based on altered cellular ATP levels; induction of re-differentiation through the action of Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases (MAPKs); the induction of the apoptosis by reactive oxygen species. Jasmonates can be used in anti-cancer therapy in combination with other known drugs, such as cisplatin, paclitaxel or doxorubicin, showing a synergistic effect. The structure-activity relationship of novel jasmonate derivatives with anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects is also shown.

PepT1-knockout mice harbor a protective metabolome beneficial for intestinal wound healing

Genetic knockout (KO) of peptide transporter-1 (PepT1) protein is known to provide resistance to acute colitis and colitis-associated cancer (CAC) in mouse models. However, it was unclear which molecule(s) or pathway(s) formed the basis for these protective effects. Recently, we demonstrated that the PepT1^-/- microbiota is sufficient to protect against colitis and CAC. Given that PepT1 KO alters the gut microbiome and thereby changes the intestinal metabolites that are ultimately reflected in the feces, we investigated the fecal metabolites of our PepT1 KO mice. Using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based untargeted-metabolomics technique, we found that the fecal metabolites were significantly different between the KO and normal wild-type (WT) mice. Among the altered fecal metabolites, tuberonic acid (TA) was sevenfold higher in KO mouse feces than in WT mouse feces. Accordingly, we studied whether the increased TA could direct an anti-inflammatory effect. Using in vitro models, we discovered that TA not only prevented lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in macrophages but also improved the epithelial cell healing processes. Our results suggest that TA, and possibly other fecal metabolites, play a crucial role in the pathway(s) associated with the anticolitis effects of PepT1 KO.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Fecal metabolites were significantly different between the KO and normal wild-type (WT) mice. One fecal metabolite, tuberonic acid (TA), was sevenfold higher in KO mouse feces than in WT mouse feces. TA prevented lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in macrophages and improved the epithelial cell healing process.

Glycemic homeostasis and hepatic metabolism are modified in rats with global cerebral ischemia

Cerebral ischemia-induced hyperglycemia has been reported to accentuate neurological damage following focal or global cerebral ischemia. Hyperglycemia found in rats following focal brain ischemia occurs in the first 24 h and has been claimed to be caused by increased liver gluconeogenesis and insulin resistance. However, liver gluconeogenesis and the mechanisms leading to hyperglycemia after global cerebral ischemia remain uncertain. This study investigated the glycemic homeostasis and hepatic metabolism in rats after transient four-vessel occlusion (4-VO)-induced global cerebral ischemia, an event that mimics to a certain degree the situation during cardiac arrest. Several metabolic fluxes were measured in perfused livers. Activities and mRNA expressions of hepatic glycolysis and glyconeogenesis rate-limiting enzymes were assessed as well as respiratory activity of hepatic isolated mitochondria. Global cerebral ischemia was associated with hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia 24 h after ischemia. Insulin resistance developed later and was prominent after the 5th day. Hepatic anabolism and catabolism were both modified in a complex and time-dependent way. Gluconeogenesis, β-oxidation, ketogenesis and glycolysis were diminished at 24 h after ischemia. At 5 days after ischemia glycolysis had normalized, but gluconeogenesis, ketogenesis and β-oxidation were accelerated. The overall metabolic modifications suggest that a condition of depressed metabolism was established in response to the new conditions generated by the cerebral global ischemia. Whether the modifications in the liver metabolism found in rats after the ischemic insult can be translated to individuals following global brain ischemia remains uncertain, but the results of this study are hoped to encourage further investigations.

The Evolving Role of Natural Compounds in the Medical Treatment of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids (UFs) remain a significant health issue for many women, with a disproportionate impact on women of color, likely due to both genetic and environmental factors. The prevalence of UFs is estimated to be approximately 70% depending on population. UF-derived clinical symptoms include pelvic pain, excessive uterine bleeding, gastrointestinal and voiding problems, as well as impaired fertility. Nowadays numerous methods of UF treatment are available-from conservative treatment to invasive surgeries. Selecting an appropriate treatment option should be individualized and adjusted to the patient's expectations as much as possible. So far, the mainstay of treatment is surgery, but their negative impact of future fertility is clear. On the other hand, emerging new pharmaceutical options have significant adverse effects like liver function impairment, hot flashes, bone density loss, endometrial changes, and inability to attempt conception during treatment. Several natural compounds are found to help treat UFs and relieve their symptoms. In this review we summarize all the current available data about natural compounds that may be beneficial for patients with UFs, especially those who want to preserve their future fertility or have treatment while actively pursuing conception. Vitamin D, epigallocatechin gallate, berberine, curcumin, and others are being used as alternative UF treatments. Moreover, we propose the concept of using combined therapies of natural compounds on their own or combined with hormonal agents to manage UFs. There is a strong need for more human clinical trials involving these compounds before promoting widespread usage.

Long-term sucrose solution consumption causes metabolic alterations and affects hepatic oxidative stress in Wistar rats

As the number of overweight and obese people has risen in recent years, there has been a parallel increase in the number of people with metabolic syndrome, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The consumption of artificially sweetened beverages contributes to these epidemics. This study investigated the long-term effects of ingestion of a 40% sucrose solution on serum and hepatic parameters in male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). After 180 days, the glycemic response, lipid profile and hepatic oxidative stress were compared to those of rats maintained on water. Sucrose ingestion led to higher body weight, increased fat deposits, reduced voluntary food intake and reduced feeding efficiency. Rats that received sucrose solution showed early signs of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, such as hyperinsulinemia. Serum triacylglycerol (TG), very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL), cholesterol, ALT and AST levels increased after sucrose consumption. Elevated malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and reduced glutathione levels characterize the hepatic oxidative stress due to sucrose ingestion. Liver sample histology showed vacuolar traces and increased fibrotic tissue. Our data showed the harmful effects of chronic consumption of sucrose solution, which can cause alterations that are found frequently in obesity, glucose intolerance and non-alcoholic hepatic disease, characteristics of metabolic syndrome.

Methyl Jasmonate Protects Microglial Cells Against β-Amyloid-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation via Nrf2-Dependent HO-1 Pathway

BACKGROUND

β-Amyloid (Aβ) induces oxidative stress and inflammation of microglial cells, thus leading to Alzheimer's disease. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. However, the potential roles of MeJA in Aβ-induced cell activities and the underlying mechanism are unclear.

METHODS

Microglial cell line BV-2 was stimulated by 20 μM Aβ and/or 20 μM MeJA and then divided into four groups (control, Aβ, MeJA, and Aβ+MeJA). Cell viability was detected by MTT assay. MDA, SOD activity, and ROS were detected by fluorescence spectrophotometry and immunofluorescence assay. Nrf2 and HO-1 were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Furthermore, inflammatory cytokines (p-NFκB, TLR4, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and apoptosis factors (Bcl-2, Bax, and cl-casp-3) were detected by Western blot. TUNEL assay was applied to investigate apoptosis rate. Moreover, the mechanism of how MeJA played anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory roles was investigated by silencing of Nrf2 via siRNA.

RESULTS

The result of MTT assay showed that MeJA improved the decreased viability of BV-2 cells induced by Aβ. The detection of MDA, SOD activity, and ROS showed the oxidative stress levels were decreased in Aβ+MeJA group compared with Aβ group. Nrf2, HO-1, and SOD were significantly up-regulated in Aβ+MeJA group compared with Aβ group (p<0.01). In contrast, inflammatory cytokines were significantly down-regulated in Aβ+MeJA group compared with Aβ group (p<0.05). Similarly, the expressions of apoptosis cytokines and TUNEL assay suggested a decreased apoptosis rate in Aβ+MeJA group compared to Aβ group (p<0.01). Finally, results of Nrf2 knockdown experiment showed down-regulations of anti-oxidative stress factors (Nrf2, HO-1 and SOD), up-regulations of inflammatory cytokines, and increased ratio of Bax to Bcl in Aβ+MeJA+si-Nrf2 group compared with Aβ+MeJA group (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

MeJA could relieve Aβ-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in microglial cells by activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Methyl Jasmonate Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in the Brain of Arthritic Rats

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), common in the plant kingdom, is capable of reducing articular and hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats. This study investigated the actions of orally administered MeJA (75–300 mg/kg) on inflammation, oxidative stress and selected enzyme activities in the brain of Holtzman rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis. MeJA prevented the arthritis-induced increased levels of nitrites, nitrates, lipid peroxides, protein carbonyls and reactive oxygen species (ROS). It also prevented the enhanced activities of myeloperoxidase and xanthine oxidase. Conversely, the diminished catalase and superoxide dismutase activities and glutathione (GSH) levels caused by arthritis were totally or partially prevented. Furthermore, MeJA increased the activity of the mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase, which helps to supply NADPH for the mitochondrial glutathione cycle, possibly contributing to the partial recovery of the GSH/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio. These positive actions on the antioxidant defenses may counterbalance the effects of MeJA as enhancer of ROS production in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. A negative effect of MeJA is the detachment of hexokinase from the mitochondria, which can potentially impair glucose phosphorylation and metabolism. In overall terms, however, it can be concluded that MeJA attenuates to a considerable extent the negative effects caused by arthritis in terms of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Molecular mechanism of plant stress hormone methyl jasmonate for its anti-inflammatory activity

Plant stress hormones (Phytohormones/PTH) are abundantly present in numerous vascular plants. Several classes of plant stress hormones like auxins (AU) & gibberellins (GA), cytokinins (CK), abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene (ET), salicylic acid (SA), jasmonates (JA), brassinosteroids (BR) and strigolactones are synthesized within specialized plant cells. Among them, jasmonate are prominent class of stress hormones involved in survival of plants in stressful conditions. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is ester of jasmonic acid is extensively studied for its potential clinical benefits. MeJA is used as an effective antimicrobial agent, food preservative, antioxidant in food and agricultural sectors. The clinical benefits of MeJA have been related to their prominent interactions with inflammatory NF-κB pathways, inhibition of enzymes, gene expression for synthesis of inflammatory mediators, signaling molecules, oxidative stress and modulation of pain perception/nociceptive responses. The objective of the present review is to provide an cohesive relation of MeJA in inflammation with reference to past and recent in-vivo and in-vitro investigations in broad perspectives.