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Zaafar D, Khalil HMA, Elkhouly GE, Sedeky AS, Ahmed YH, Khalil MG, Abo-Zeid Y. Preparation and characterization of Sorafenib nano-emulsion: impact on pharmacokinetics and toxicity; an in vitro and in vivo study. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:3089-3111. [PMID: 38430357 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01530-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Current treatment strategies include surgical resection, liver transplantation, liver-directed therapy, and systemic therapy. Sorafenib (Sor) is the first systemic drug authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for HCC treatment. Nevertheless, the conventional oral administration of Sor presents several limitations: poor solubility, low bioavailability, drug resistance development, and off-target tissue accumulation, leading to numerous adverse effects. Nano-emulsion, a nano-delivery system, is a viable carrier for poorly water-soluble drugs. It aims to enhance drug bioavailability, target organ accumulation, and reduce off-target tissue exposure, thus improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects. This study formulated Sor nano-emulsion (Sor NanoEm) using the homogenization technique. The resultant nano-emulsion was characterized by particle size (121.75 ± 12 nm), polydispersity index (PDI; 0.310), zeta potential (-12.33 ± 1.34 mV), viscosity (34,776 ± 3276 CPs), and pH (4.38 ± 0.3). Transmission Electron Microscopy exhibited spherical nano-droplets with no aggregation signs indicating stability. Furthermore, the encapsulation of Sor within the nano-emulsion sustained its release, potentially reducing the frequency of therapeutic doses. Cytotoxicity assessments on the HepG2 cell line revealed that Sor NanoEm had a significantly (P < 0.05) more potent cytotoxic effect compared to Sor suspension. Subsequent tests highlighted superior pharmacokinetic parameters and reduced dosage requirements of Sor NanoEm in mice. It exhibited an enhanced safety profile, particularly in behavior, brain, and liver, compared to its suspended form. These findings underscore the enhanced pharmacological and toxicological attributes of Sor Nano-emulsion, suggesting its potential utility in HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Zaafar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Heba M A Khalil
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Gehad E Elkhouly
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt
- Helwan Nanotechnology Center, Helwan University, Cairo, 11792, Egypt
| | - Abanoub Selim Sedeky
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Nanomedicine Lab, Center of Materials Science (CMS), Zewail City of Science and Technology, 6Th of October, 12578, Giza, Egypt
| | - Yasmine H Ahmed
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Mona G Khalil
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Abo-Zeid
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt
- Helwan Nanotechnology Center, Helwan University, Cairo, 11792, Egypt
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Khaled N, Ibrahim N, Ali AE, Youssef FS, El-Ahmady SH. LC-qTOF-MS/MS phytochemical profiling of Tabebuia impetiginosa (Mart. Ex DC.) Standl. leaf and assessment of its neuroprotective potential in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 331:118292. [PMID: 38705428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tabebuia impetiginosa (Bignoniaceae) was traditionally used for memory enhancement and central nervous system (CNS) stimulation. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to create a metabolic profile of the ethyl acetate fraction of T. impetiginosa (TEF) and investigate for the first time its neuroprotective potential on cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced chemobrain, validating its traditional use. MATERIALS AND METHODS Metabolite profiling of TEF was performed using Liquid Chromatography coupled with Quadrupole Time of Flight-Mass/Mass Spectrometry (LC-qTOF-MS/MS). For the in vivo study, CP (200 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to induce cognitive impairment in rats; TEF (30 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered throughout the 14 days of the experiment to assess its role in mitigating CP-induced neuronal deficits. Behavioral tests including locomotor, Y-maze, and passive avoidance tests were conducted. Additionally, biochemical markers such as reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and caspase-3 immunoexpression were assessed in the hippocampus area. RESULTS Forty-four phytoconstituents were tentatively identified in TEF, mainly iridoids and organic acids. TEF showed significant memory enhancement as evidenced by the increase in step-through latency in the passive avoidance test by 1.5 folds and the increase in sequence alternation percentage (SAP) in the Y-maze test by 67.3%, as compared to CP-group. Moreover, it showed pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials evidenced by the significant elevation in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels by 80% and a pronounced decline in MDA and TNF-α levels by 24% and 45%, respectively relative to the CP group. TEF treatment restored normal hippocampal histological features and attenuated apoptotic caspase-3 expression by 70% compared to the CP group. CONCLUSIONS TEF can act as a promising natural scaffold in managing the chemobrain induced by CP in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesma Khaled
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Nehal Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Alaa E Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Fadia S Youssef
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Sherweit H El-Ahmady
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
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Da-Silva OF, Adelowo AR, Babalola AA, Ikeji CN, Owoeye O, Rocha JBT, Adedara IA, Farombi EO. Diphenyl Diselenide Through Reduction of Inflammation, Oxidative Injury and Caspase-3 Activation Abates Doxorubicin-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1076-1092. [PMID: 38267690 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-04098-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Neurotoxicity associated with chemotherapy is a debilitating side effect of cancer management in humans which reportedly involves inflammatory and oxidative stress responses. Diphenyl diselenide (DPDS) is an organoselenium compound which exhibits its anti-tumoral, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-mutagenic effects. Nevertheless, its possible effect on chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity is not known. Using rat model, we probed the behavioral and biochemical effects accompanying administration of antineoplastic agent doxorubicin (7.5 mg/kg) and DPDS (5 and 10 mg/kg). Anxiogenic-like behavior, motor and locomotor insufficiencies associated with doxorubicin were considerably abated by both DPDS doses with concomitant enhancement in exploratory behavior as demonstrated by reduced heat maps intensity and enhanced track plot densities. Moreover, with exception of cerebral glutathione (GSH) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, biochemical data demonstrated reversal of doxorubicin-mediated decline in cerebral and cerebellar antioxidant status indices and the increase in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity by both doses of DPDS. Also, cerebellar and cerebral lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide as well as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species levels were considerably diminished in rats administered doxorubicin and DPDS. In addition, DPDS administration abated myeloperoxidase activity, tumour necrosis factor alpha and nitric oxide levels along with caspase-3 activity in doxorubicin-administered rats. Chemoprotection of doxorubicin-associated neurotoxicity by DPDS was further validated by histomorphometry and histochemical staining. Taken together, DPDS through offsetting of oxido-inflammatory stress and caspase-3 activation elicited neuroprotection in doxorubicin-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatobiloba F Da-Silva
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adedoyin R Adelowo
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adesina A Babalola
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Cynthia N Ikeji
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olatunde Owoeye
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Joao B T Rocha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CCNE, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Isaac A Adedara
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil.
| | - Ebenezer O Farombi
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Kuil LE, Varkevisser TMCK, Huisman MH, Jansen M, Bunt J, Compter A, Ket H, Schagen SB, Meeteren AYNSV, Partanen M. Artificial and natural interventions for chemotherapy- and / or radiotherapy-induced cognitive impairment: A systematic review of animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105514. [PMID: 38135266 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer survivors frequently experience cognitive impairments. This systematic review assessed animal literature to identify artificial (pharmaceutical) or natural interventions (plant/endogenously-derived) to reduce treatment-related cognitive impairments. METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched and SYRCLE's tool was used for risk of bias assessment of the 134 included articles. RESULTS High variability was observed and risk of bias analysis showed overall poor quality of reporting. Results generally showed positive effects in the intervention group versus cancer-therapy only group (67% of 156 cognitive measures), with only 15 (7%) measures reporting cognitive impairment despite intervention. Both artificial (61%) and natural (75%) interventions prevented cognitive impairment. Artificial interventions involving GSK3B inhibitors, PLX5622, and NMDA receptor antagonists, and natural interventions utilizing melatonin, curcumin, and N-acetylcysteine, showed most consistent outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Both artificial and natural interventions may prevent cognitive impairment in rodents, which merit consideration in future clinical trials. Greater consistency in design is needed to enhance the generalizability across studies, including timing of cognitive tests and description of treatments and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Kuil
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Division of Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - T M C K Varkevisser
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M H Huisman
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M Jansen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J Bunt
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A Compter
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - H Ket
- Universiteitsbibliotheek, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S B Schagen
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - M Partanen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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He YQ, Zhou CC, Jiang SG, Lan WQ, Zhang F, Tao X, Chen WS. Natural products for the treatment of chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment and prospects of nose-to-brain drug delivery. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1292807. [PMID: 38348396 PMCID: PMC10859466 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1292807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-related cognitive deficits (CRCI) as one of the common adverse drug reactions during chemotherapy that manifest as memory, attention, and executive function impairments. However, there are still no effective pharmacological therapies for the treatment of CRCI. Natural compounds have always inspired drug development and numerous natural products have shown potential therapeutic effects on CRCI. Nevertheless, improving the brain targeting of natural compounds in the treatment of CRCI is still a problem to be overcome at present and in the future. Accumulated evidence shows that nose-to-brain drug delivery may be an excellent carrier for natural compounds. Therefore, we reviewed natural products with potential anti-CRCI, focusing on the signaling pathway of these drugs' anti-CRCI effects, as well as the possibility and prospect of treating CRCI with natural compounds based on nose-to-brain drug delivery in the future. In conclusion, this review provides new insights to further explore natural products in the treatment of CRCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qiong He
- Institute of Chinese Materia Madica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Can-Can Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng-Gui Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Qian Lan
- Institute of Chinese Materia Madica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wan-Sheng Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Madica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Ovalle Rodríguez P, Ramírez Ortega D, Blanco Ayala T, Roldán Roldán G, Pérez de la Cruz G, González Esquivel DF, Gómez-Manzo S, Sánchez Chapul L, Salazar A, Pineda B, Pérez de la Cruz V. Modulation of Kynurenic Acid Production by N-acetylcysteine Prevents Cognitive Impairment in Adulthood Induced by Lead Exposure during Lactation in Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2035. [PMID: 38136155 PMCID: PMC10740504 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12122035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb2+) exposure during early life induces cognitive impairment, which was recently associated with an increase in brain kynurenic acid (KYNA), an antagonist of NMDA and alpha-7 nicotinic receptors. It has been described that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) favors an antioxidant environment and inhibits kynurenine aminotransferase II activity (KAT II, the main enzyme of KYNA production), leading to brain KYNA levels decrease and cognitive improvement. This study aimed to investigate whether the NAC modulation of the brain KYNA levels in mice ameliorated Pb2+-induced cognitive impairment. The dams were divided into four groups: Control, Pb2+, NAC, and Pb2++NAC, which were given drinking water or 500 ppm lead acetate in the drinking water ad libitum, from 0 to 23 postnatal days (PNDs). The NAC and Pb2++NAC groups were simultaneously fed NAC (350 mg/day) in their chow from 0 to 23 PNDs. At PND 60, the effect of the treatment with Pb2+ and in combination with NAC on learning and memory performance was evaluated. Immediately after behavioral evaluation, brain tissues were collected to assess the redox environment; KYNA and glutamate levels; and KAT II activity. The NAC treatment prevented the long-term memory deficit exhibited in the Pb2+ group. As expected, Pb2+ group showed redox environment alterations, fluctuations in glutamate levels, and an increase in KYNA levels, which were partially avoided by NAC co-administration. These results confirmed that the excessive KYNA levels induced by Pb2+ were involved in the onset of cognitive impairment and could be successfully prevented by NAC treatment. NAC could be a tool for testing in scenarios in which KYNA levels are associated with the induction of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Ovalle Rodríguez
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Unidad de Posgrado, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Daniela Ramírez Ortega
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Tonali Blanco Ayala
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Gabriel Roldán Roldán
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Conducta, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Gonzalo Pérez de la Cruz
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México UNAM, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Dinora Fabiola González Esquivel
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Saúl Gómez-Manzo
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Genética, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City 04530, Mexico;
| | - Laura Sánchez Chapul
- Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Clinical Neurosciences Division, National Institute of Rehabilitation “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Aleli Salazar
- Neuroimmunology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (A.S.); (B.P.)
| | - Benjamín Pineda
- Neuroimmunology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (A.S.); (B.P.)
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
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Poladian N, Navasardyan I, Narinyan W, Orujyan D, Venketaraman V. Potential Role of Glutathione Antioxidant Pathways in the Pathophysiology and Adjunct Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders. Clin Pract 2023; 13:768-779. [PMID: 37489419 PMCID: PMC10366746 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13040070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is defined as the imbalance between the production of free radicals and their removal by antioxidants, leading to accumulation and subsequent organ and tissue damage. Antioxidant status and its role in the accumulation of free radicals has been observed in a number of psychological disorders. Glutathione is commonly referred to as the principal antioxidant of the brain and, therefore, plays a critical role in maintaining redox homeostasis. Reduced levels of glutathione in the brain increase its vulnerability to oxidative stress, and may be associated with the development and progression of several psychiatric disorders. Within this review, we focus on analyzing potential associations between the glutathione antioxidant pathway and psychiatric disorders: major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Our research suggests that studies regarding these four disorders have shown decreased levels of GSH in association with diseased states; however, conflicting results note no significant variance in glutathione pathway enzymes and/or metabolites based on diseased state. In studying the potential of NAC administration as an adjunct therapy, various studies have shown NAC to augment therapy and/or aid in symptomatic management for psychiatric disorders, while contrasting results exist within the literature. Based on the conflicting findings throughout this review, there is room for study regarding the potential role of glutathione in the development and progression of psychiatric disorders. Our findings further suggest a need to study such pathways with consideration of the interactions with first-line pharmacotherapy, and the potential use of antioxidants as supplemental therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Poladian
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Inesa Navasardyan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - William Narinyan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Davit Orujyan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Vishwanath Venketaraman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
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Wang YH, Wang YQ, Yu XG, Lin Y, Liu JX, Wang WY, Yan CH. Chronic environmental inorganic arsenic exposure causes social behavioral changes in juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 867:161296. [PMID: 36592900 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is a metalloid commonly found worldwide. Environmental As exposure may cause potential health hazards and behavioral changes in humans and animals. However, the effects of environmental As concentrations on social behavior, especially during the juvenile stage, are unclear. In this study, we observed behavioral changes in juvenile zebrafish after 28 days of exposure to inorganic As (NaAsO2 100 and 500 ppb) in water, especially anxiety and social deficits. Additionally, the level of oxidative stress in the zebrafish brain after As treatment increased, the content of dopamine (DA) decreased, and the transcription level of genes involved in DA metabolism with the activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) increased. Oxidative stress is a recognized mechanism of nerve damage induced by As exposure. The zebrafish were exposed to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to reduce As exposure-induced oxidative stress. The results showed improvements in social behavior, DA content, MAO activity, and gene transcription in zebrafish. In conclusion, environmental As exposure can induce behavioral abnormalities, such as anxiety and social deficits in zebrafish, which may be caused by As-induced oxidative stress altering gene transcription levels, causing an increase in MAO activity and a decrease in DA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hong Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ya-Qian Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Gang Yu
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yin Lin
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jun-Xia Liu
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Wei-Ye Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Chong-Huai Yan
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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9
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Tüfekci KK, Bakirhan EG, Terzi F. A Maternal High-Fat Diet Causes Anxiety-Related Behaviors by Altering Neuropeptide Y1 Receptor and Hippocampal Volumes in Rat Offspring: the Potential Effect of N-Acetylcysteine. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1499-1514. [PMID: 36502431 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03158-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The children of obese mothers are known to have a high risk of obesity and metabolic disease and are prone to developing cognitive deficits, although the underlying mechanism is not yet fully understood. This study investigated the relationship between neuropeptide Y1 receptor (NPY1R) and anxiety-like behaviors in the hippocampi of male rat offspring exposed to maternal obesity and the potential neuroprotective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC). A maternal obesity model was created using a high-fat (60% k/cal) diet. NAC (150 mg/kg) was administered by intragastric gavage for 25 days in both the NAC and obesity + NAC (ObNAC) groups. All male rat offspring were subjected to behavioral testing on postnatal day 28, the end of the experiment. Stereological analysis was performed on hippocampal sections, while NPY1R expression was determined using immunohistochemical methods. Stereological data indicated significant decreases in the total volume of the hippocampus and CA1 and dentate gyrus (DG) regions in the obese (Ob) group (p < 0.01). Decreased NPY1R expression was observed in the Ob group hippocampus (p < 0.01). At behavioral assessments, the Ob group rats exhibited increased anxiety and less social interaction, although the ObNAC group rats exhibited stronger responses than the Ob group (p < 0.01). The study results show that NAC attenuated anxiety-like behaviors and NPY1R expression and also protected hippocampal volume against maternal obesity. The findings indicate that a decrease in NPY1R-positive neurons in the hippocampus of male rats due to maternal conditions may be associated with increased levels of anxiety and a lower hippocampal volume. Additionally, although there is no direct evidence, maintenance of NPY1R expression by NAC may be critical for regulating maternal obesity-induced anxiety-related behaviors and hippocampal structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kıymet Kübra Tüfekci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey.
| | - Elfide Gizem Bakirhan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Adıyaman University, Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Funda Terzi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey
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Samad N, Rafeeque M, Imran I. Free-L-Cysteine improves corticosterone-induced behavioral deficits, oxidative stress and neurotransmission in rats. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 38:983-997. [PMID: 36507936 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01143-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
L-Cysteine (L-Cys) is a semi-essential amino acid. It serves as a substrate for enzyme cystathionine-β-synthase in the central nervous system (CNS). L-Cys showed various antioxidant characteristics. Though, studies on the effect of free L-Cys administration to evaluate the CNS functioning is very limited. Therefore, we assessed the effects of L-Cys on corticosterone (CORT) induced oxidative stress, behavioral deficits and memory impairment in male rats. L-Cys (150 mg/kg/ml) administered to vehicle and CORT (20 mg/kg/ml) treated rats orally for 28 days. Behavioral activities were conducted after treatment period. Subsequently, rats were sacrificed, blood and brain were removed. Hippocampus was isolated from brain and then hippocampus and plasma were collected for oxidative, biochemical and neurochemical analysis. Results showed that repeated treatment of L-Cys produced antidepressant, anxiolytic and memory-improving effects which may be ascribed to the enhanced antioxidant profile, normalized cholinergic, serotonergic neurotransmission in brain (hippocampus) following CORT administration. Increased plasma CORT by CORT administration was also normalized by L-Cys. The current study concluded that administration of free L-Cys improved the behavioral, biochemical, neurochemical and redox status of CNS. Hence, L-Cys could be protective therapeutic modulator against stress induced neurological ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen Samad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan.
| | - Mikhba Rafeeque
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | - Imran Imran
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
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11
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Salama A, Elgohary R, M Amin M, Elwahab SA. Immunomodulatory effect of protocatechuic acid on cyclophosphamide induced brain injury in rat: Modulation of inflammosomes NLRP3 and SIRT1. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 932:175217. [PMID: 36007603 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Modulation of the inflammasome NLRP3 and SIRT1 are new combat strategy for brain injury protection. The inflammasome activates proinflammatory cytokines releasing interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 which in turn affect the toxins release from immune cells. In addition, SIRT1 controls many biological functions, such as immune response and oxidative stress. Protocatechuic has versatile biological activities and possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. So this work aims to study immunomodulatory effect of protocatechuic acid on cyclophosphamide chemotherapy drug-induced brain injury via modulation of inflammosomes NLRP3 and SIRT1. Rats were randomly assigned to four experimental groups. Normal control group was injected with a single i.p injection of saline. Cyclophosphamide group was injected with a single i.p injection of cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg). Protocatechuic acid groups were orally administered (50 &100 mg/kg) once daily for 10 consecutive days after cyclophosphamide injection. Protocatechuic acid administration exhibited improvements of the cognition function and memory, a reduction in brain contents of MDA, NLRP3, IL-1 β, NF-κB, IKBKB and Galectin 3 and an elevation of GSH and SIRT1 compared to cyclophosphamide group. In addition, protocatechuic acid administration ameliorated the elevation of caspase 3 and iNOS gene expression and alleviated the neuron degeneration caused by cyclophosphamide. In conclusion, the therapeutic action of protocatechuic acid and its cellular and molecular mechanisms are new insights against various human ailments, especially, neuroprotective disease as brain injury induced by cyclophosphamide chemotherapy drug in rats through modulation of inflammosomes NLRP3 and SIRT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer Salama
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth St. (Former El-Tahrir St.), 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania Elgohary
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth St. (Former El-Tahrir St.), 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed M Amin
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth St. (Former El-Tahrir St.), 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sahar Abd Elwahab
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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12
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N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine Protects Airway Epithelial Cells during Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection against Mucin Synthesis, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Response and Inhibits HSPA6 Expression. Anal Cell Pathol 2022; 2022:4846336. [PMID: 36046596 PMCID: PMC9420614 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4846336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is an important cause of hospitalization of children worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. RSV infection leads to increasing inflammatory and apoptosis events in the airway epithelium through mechanisms involving ROS generation. The antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) has been shown to inhibit influenza virus replication and to reduce the secretion of inflammatory and apoptotic mediators during virus infection. The study aims to investigate the effects of NAC on human bronchial epithelial cells BEAS-2B and HSPA6 expression during RSV infection. Methods. CCK-8 assays were performed to evaluate cell survival. The production of proinflammatory factors, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-18, and MUC5AC was examined by quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA. Oxidative stress was determined by reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH)/glutathione disulfide (GSSG) ratio. Immunoblotting analysis of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its phosphorylation was performed. The antiviral effect of NAC was assessed by determining viral titers using plaque assay. Results. RSV infection reduced cell survival, promoted the release of proinflammatory factors, increased the ROS production and MDA concentration, and diminished the SOD activity and GSH/GSSG ratio, all which were attenuated by NAC treatment. Accordingly, NAC treatment inhibited the activation of EGFR and MUC5AC in BEAS-2B cells with RSV infection. Furthermore, NAC administration resulted in a marked decrease in RSV-induced HSPA6 expression in BEAS-2B cells. Concomitantly, EPB treatment led to an evident inhibition of RSV fusion gene and viral replication in RSV-infected BEAS-2B cells. Conclusion. This work supports the use of NAC to exert antimucin synthesis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects on airway epithelium during RSV infection.
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13
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Onzi GR, D'Agustini N, Garcia SC, Guterres SS, Pohlmann PR, Rosa DD, Pohlmann AR. Chemobrain in Breast Cancer: Mechanisms, Clinical Manifestations, and Potential Interventions. Drug Saf 2022; 45:601-621. [PMID: 35606623 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-022-01182-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Among the potential adverse effects of breast cancer treatment, chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) has gained increased attention in the past years. In this review, we provide an overview of the literature regarding CRCI in breast cancer, focusing on three main aspects. The first aspect relates to the molecular mechanisms linking individual drugs commonly used to treat breast cancer and CRCI, which include oxidative stress and inflammation, reduced neurogenesis, reduced levels of specific neurotransmitters, alterations in neuronal dendrites and spines, and impairment in myelin production. The second aspect is related to the clinical characteristics of CRCI in patients with breast cancer treated with different drug combinations. Data suggest the incidence rates of CRCI in breast cancer vary considerably, and may affect more than 50% of treated patients. Both chemotherapy regimens with or without anthracyclines have been associated with CRCI manifestations. While cross-sectional studies suggest the presence of symptoms up to 20 years after treatment, longitudinal studies confirm cognitive impairments lasting for at most 4 years after the end of chemotherapy. The third and final aspect is related to possible therapeutic interventions. Although there is still no standard of care to treat CRCI, several pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches have shown interesting results. In summary, even if cognitive impairments derived from chemotherapy resolve with time, awareness of CRCI is crucial to provide patients with a better understanding of the syndrome and to offer them the best care directed at improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana R Onzi
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia D'Agustini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia da Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Solange C Garcia
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Silvia S Guterres
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Paula R Pohlmann
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Daniela D Rosa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia da Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Serviço de Oncologia, Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Adriana R Pohlmann
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil.
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14
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Potential Protective Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Doxorubicin-Induced Neurotoxicity and Behavioral Disturbances in Rats. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:1280-1289. [PMID: 34978671 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03522-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the potential neuroprotective efficacy of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) against doxorubicin (DOX) -induced behavioral disturbances in rats. Female rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups as control, CoQ10, DOX, and DOX plus CoQ10. The CoQ10 groups received CoQ10 (200 mg kg-1) for 21 days, and the DOX groups received DOX (4 mg kg-1) on days 7 and 14 of the study. The open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests were performed to assess locomotor activity and anxiety levels. Additionally, malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonyl (PC) levels and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were quantified in brain tissue. DOX administration caused alterations in locomotor activity, and anxiety-like behaviors. Moreover, DOX produced significant elevation in AChE activity . PC level and GPx activity tended to alter with DOX administration. Co-treatment with CoQ10 significantly attenuated DOX-induced behavioral alterations via improving AChE activity in the brain tissue of rats. CoQ10 treatment may be potential for the alleviation of DOX-induced behavioral disturbances. This improvement might be due to the inhibition of AChE activity.
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15
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Refaie MM, El-Hussieny M, Bayoumi AM, Shehata S, Welson NN, Abdelzaher WY. Simvastatin cardioprotection in cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity via the modulation of inflammasome/caspase1/interleukin1β pathway. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221111440. [PMID: 35762198 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221111440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced cardiotoxicity is a serious adverse effect that occurs during the administration of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide (CYC). Therefore, there is a critical need to find cardioprotective agents to keep the heart healthy. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effect of simvastatin (SIM) against CYC-induced heart damage and evaluate different mechanisms involved in mediating this effect, including the inflammasome/caspase1/interleukin1β (IL1β) pathway and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). 36 rats were randomly assigned to one of four groups: a control group that received only vehicles, a CYC group that received CYC (150 mg/kg/day) i.p. on the fourth and fifth days, a CYC+SIM group that received SIM (10 mg/kg/day) orally for 5 days and CYC (150 mg/kg/day) i.p. on the fourth and fifth days, and a CYC+SIM+ Nitro- ω-L-arginine (L-NNA) group that received L-NNA (25 mg/kg/day, SIM (10 mg/kg/day) orally for 5 days and CYC (150 mg/kg/day) i.p. on the 4th and 5th days. The CYC group revealed an obvious elevation in cardiac enzymes and heart weights with toxic histopathological changes. Moreover, there was an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) levels, and up-regulation of the NLRP3inflammasome/caspase1/IL1β pathway. In addition, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), eNOS, reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) significantly decreased. CYC-induced cardiotoxicity was most properly reversed by SIM through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic actions with the stimulation of eNOS. The co-administration of L-NNA diminished the protective effect of SIM, indicating the essential role of eNOS in mediating this effect. Therefore, SIM ameliorated CYC-induced cardiotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Mm Refaie
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 68877Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Maram El-Hussieny
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Ma Bayoumi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt.,Department of Biochemistry, 215098Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Maidashi, Higashi-Ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Sayed Shehata
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Nermeen N Welson
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, 158411Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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16
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Bradlow RCJ, Berk M, Kalivas PW, Back SE, Kanaan RA. The Potential of N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:451-482. [PMID: 35316513 PMCID: PMC9095537 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a compound of increasing interest in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Primarily through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glutamate modulation activity, NAC has been investigated in the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar-related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive-related disorders, substance-use disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and chronic pain. Whilst there is ample preclinical evidence and theoretical justification for the use of NAC in the treatment of multiple psychiatric disorders, clinical trials in most disorders have yielded mixed results. However, most studies have been underpowered and perhaps too brief, with some evidence of benefit only after months of treatment with NAC. Currently NAC has the most evidence of having a beneficial effect as an adjuvant agent in the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, severe autism, depression, and obsessive compulsive and related disorders. Future research with well-powered studies that are of sufficient length will be critical to better understand the utility of NAC in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT-The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC Australia ,Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia
| | - Peter W. Kalivas
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA ,Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC USA
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC USA ,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA
| | - Richard A. Kanaan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia
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Influence of 5-HT 2A receptor function on anxiety-like behavior induced by a combination treatment with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3607-3614. [PMID: 34557945 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05979-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety-like behavior induced by a combination of doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide may be mediated by serotonin (5-HT)2A receptor hyperactivity. The anxiolytic effects of fluoxetine may be inhibited by this combination. The present study examined the mechanisms underlying anxiety-like behavior induced by the combination doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide in rats. Anxiety-like behavior was induced during a light-dark test by the doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide treatment (once a week for 2 weeks). 5-HT2A receptor and 5-HT2A receptor-mediated extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK)1/2 levels were measured using Western blotting. 5-HT reuptake activity in fluoxetine-treated rats was also examined using microdialysis. ( ±)-1-(2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane, a 5-HT2A receptor agonist, induced anxiety-like behavior. The fluoxetine treatment increased extracellular 5-HT concentrations in the hippocampus of vehicle- and doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide-treated rats. 5-HT transporter levels in the hippocampus were not affected by chemotherapy. The doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide treatment did not alter 5-HT2A receptor levels in the frontal cortex. However, chemotherapy increased 5-HT2A receptor-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels significantly more than the vehicle treatment. The present results suggest that anxiety-like behavior induced by the combination of doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide is mediated by 5-HT2A receptor hyperactivity without an increase in 5-HT2A receptor levels in rats.
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18
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Cauli O. Oxidative Stress and Cognitive Alterations Induced by Cancer Chemotherapy Drugs: A Scoping Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1116. [PMID: 34356349 PMCID: PMC8301189 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10071116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is one of the most deleterious effects of chemotherapy treatment in cancer patients, and this problem sometimes remains even after chemotherapy ends. Common classes of chemotherapy-based regimens such as anthracyclines, taxanes, and platinum derivatives can induce both oxidative stress in the blood and in the brain, and these effects can be reproduced in neuronal and glia cell cultures. In rodent models, both the acute and repeated administration of doxorubicin or adriamycin (anthracyclines) or cisplatin impairs cognitive functions, as shown by their diminished performance in different learning and memory behavioural tasks. Administration of compounds with strong antioxidant effects such as N-acetylcysteine, gamma-glutamyl cysteine ethyl ester, polydatin, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, and 2-mercaptoethane sulfonate sodium (MESNA) counteract both oxidative stress and cognitive alterations induced by chemotherapeutic drugs. These antioxidant molecules provide the scientific basis to design clinical trials in patients with the aim of reducing the oxidative stress and cognitive alterations, among other probable central nervous system changes, elicited by chemotherapy in cancer patients. In particular, N-acetylcysteine and MESNA are currently used in clinical settings and are therefore attracting scientific attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Cauli
- Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; ; Tel.: +34-96-386-41-82; Fax: +34-96-398-30-35
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Smaga I, Frankowska M, Filip M. N-acetylcysteine as a new prominent approach for treating psychiatric disorders. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2569-2594. [PMID: 33760228 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well-known and safe mucolytic agent, also used in patients with paracetamol overdose. In addition to these effects, recent preclinical and clinical studies have shown that NAC exerts beneficial effects on different psychiatric disorders. Many potential mechanisms have been proposed to underlie the therapeutic effects of NAC, including the regulation of several neurotransmitters, oxidative homeostasis, and inflammatory mediators. In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the ability of NAC to ameliorate symptoms and neuropathologies related to different psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, obsessive-compulsive-related disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Although preclinical studies have shown a positive effect of NAC on animal models of psychiatric disorders, the clinical efficacy of NAC is not fully established. NAC remains a strong candidate for adjunct treatment for many psychiatric disorders, but additional preclinical and clinical studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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