Evaluation of Therapeutic Effects of Quercetin Against Achilles Tendinopathy in Rats via Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, Autophagy, and Metalloproteinases

Sinapic acid protects against lead acetate-induced lung toxicity by reducing oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress damage

Lead acetate (PbAc) is a compound that produces toxicity in many tissues after exposure. Sinapic acid (SNP) possesses many biological and pharmacological properties. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of SNP on the toxicity of PbAc in lung tissue. PbAc was administered orally at 30 mg/kg and SNP at 5 or 10 mg/kg for 7 days. Biochemical, genetic, and histological methods were used to investigate inflammatory, apoptotic, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and oxidative stress damage levels in lung tissue. SNP administration induced PbAc-reduced antioxidant (GSH, SOD, CAT, and GPx) and expression of HO-1 in lung tissue. It also reduced MDA, induced by PbAc, and thus alleviated oxidative stress. SNP decreased the inflammatory markers NF-κB, TNF-α and IL-1β levels induced by PbAc in lung tissue and exhibited anti-inflammatory effect. PbAc increased apoptotic Bax, Apaf-1, and Caspase-3 mRNA transcription levels and decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 in lung tissues. SNP decreased apoptotic damage by reversing this situation. On the other hand, SNP regulated these markers and brought them closer to the levels of the control group. PbAc caused prolonged ER stress by increasing the levels of ATF6, PERK, IRE1α, GRP78 and this activity was stopped and tended to retreat with SNP. After evaluating all the data, While PbAc caused toxic damage in lung tissue, SNP showed a protective effect by reducing this damage.

Chrysin reduces heart endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis by inhibiting PERK and Caspase 3-7 in high-fat diet-fed rats

BACKGROUND

Chrysin (Chy) is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in fruits, vegetables, honey, propolis, and many plant extracts that has shown notable medicinal value. Chy exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-cholesteremic, and cardioprotective. However, the influence of Chy in mitigating high-fat diet (HFD)-induced ER stress of rat myocardium remains unknown.

PURPOSE

The current work intended to determine the therapeutic potential of Chy against HFD-induced endoplasmic stress-mediated apoptosis.

METHODS

To evaluate the therapeutic value of Chy in HFD-induced endoplasmic stress-mediated apoptosis in the myocardium; The male wistar rats were divided into different groups; control, HFD control, HFD fed followed by Chy-treated and HFD fed followed by atorvastatin (Atv) treated rats.

RESULTS

When compared to the control group, the HFD-fed rats had significantly higher levels of marker enzymes such as CK-NAC and ALP, as well as lipid peroxidation and lipid profile (TC, TG, LDL, and VLDL). Chy therapy greatly reversed these marker enzymes and the lipid profile. qRT-PCR Studies showed that Chy supplementation considerably improved Nrf2 and its target genes. In addition, Chy lowered the expression of PERK, CHOP, ATF6, GRP78, and Caspase-3 genes in the heart tissue of HFD-fed rats. Immunohistochemistry results demonstrated that Chy substantially enhanced the Nrf2 and reduced PERK and Caspase3-7 protein expression in HFD-fed rats.

CONCLUSION

The current study concluded that Chy may mediate the cardioprotective effect by activating Nrf2 and inhibiting PERK signaling pathway against ER stress-mediated apoptosis induced by HFD. Therefore, supplementation with Chy could serve as a promising therapeutic target against HFD-induced ER stress-mediated cardiac complication.

Evaluation of the Effect of Loratadine versus Diosmin/Hesperidin Combination on Vinca Alkaloids-Induced Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Neurological injury is a crucial problem that interferes with the therapeutic use of vinca alkaloids as well as the quality of patient life. This study was conducted to assess the impact of using loratadine or diosmin/hesperidin on neuropathy induced by vinca alkaloids. Patients were randomized into one of three groups as follows: group 1 was the control group, group 2 received 450 mg diosmin and 50 mg hesperidin combination orally twice daily, and group 3 received loratadine 10 mg orally once daily. Subjective scores (numeric pain rating scale, douleur neuropathique 4, and functional assessment of cancer therapy/gynecologic oncology group-neurotoxicity (FACT/GOG-Ntx) scores), neuroinflammation biomarkers, adverse drug effects, quality of life, and response to chemotherapy were compared among the three groups. Both diosmin/hesperidin and loratadine improved the results of the neurotoxicity subscale in the FACT/GOG-Ntx score (p < 0.001, p < 0.01 respectively) and ameliorated the upsurge in neuroinflammation serum biomarkers. They also reduced the incidence and timing of paresthesia (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and dysuria occurrence (p = 0.042). Both loratadine and diosmin/hesperidin attenuated the intensity of acute neuropathy triggered by vinca alkaloids. Furthermore, they did not increase the frequency of adverse effects or interfere with the treatment response.

Challenges and opportunities of medicines for treating tendon inflammation and fibrosis: A comprehensive and mechanistic review

BACKGROUND

Tendinopathy refers to conditions characterized by collagen degeneration within tendon tissue, accompanied by the proliferation of capillaries and arteries, resulting in reduced mechanical function, pain, and swelling. While inflammation in tendinopathy can play a role in preventing infection, uncontrolled inflammation can hinder tissue regeneration and lead to fibrosis and impaired movement.

OBJECTIVES

The inability to regulate inflammation poses a significant limitation in tendinopathy treatment. Therefore, an ideal treatment strategy should involve modulation of the inflammatory process while promoting tissue regeneration.

METHODS

The current review article was prepared by searching PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Several treatment approaches based on biomaterials have been developed.

RESULTS

This review examines various treatment methods utilizing small molecules, biological compounds, herbal medicine-inspired approaches, immunotherapy, gene therapy, cell-based therapy, tissue engineering, nanotechnology, and phototherapy.

CONCLUSION

These treatments work through mechanisms of action involving signaling pathways such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), all of which contribute to the repair of injured tendons.

Early delivery of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improves healing in a rat model of Achilles tendinopathy

Objective: This study aimed to explore the efficacy and optimal delivery time of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) in treating collagenase-induced Achilles tendinopathy. Methods: Achilles tendinopathy in rats at early or advanced stages was induced by injecting collagenase I into bilateral Achilles tendons. A total of 28 injured rats were injected with a hUC-MSC solution or normal saline into bilateral tendons twice and sampled after 4 weeks for histological staining, gene expression analysis, transmission electron microscope assay and biomechanical testing analysis. Results: The results revealed better histological performance and a larger collagen fiber diameter in the MSC group. mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and MMP-3 was lower after MSC transplantation. Early MSC delivery promoted collagen I and TIMP-3 synthesis, and strengthened tendon toughness. Conclusion: hUC-MSCs demonstrated a therapeutic effect in treating collagenase-induced Achilles tendinopathy, particularly in the early stage of tendinopathy.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory injectable hydrogel microspheres for in situ treatment of tendinopathy

Tendinopathy is a common disorder that causes local dysfunction and reduces quality of life. Recent research has indicated that alterations in the inflammatory microenvironment play a vital role in the pathogenesis of tendinopathy. Herein, injectable methacrylate gelatin (GelMA) microspheres (GM) were fabricated and loaded with heparin-dopamine conjugate (HDC) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). GM@HDC@HGF were designed to balance the inflammatory microenvironment by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby regulating extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism and halting tendon degeneration. Combining growth factors with heparin was expected to improve the encapsulation rate and maintain the long-term efficacy of HGF. In addition, the catechol groups on dopamine have adhesion and antioxidant properties, allowing potential attachment at the injured site, and better function synergized with HGF. GM@HDC@HGF injected in situ in rat Achilles tendinopathy (AT) models significantly down-regulated oxidative stress and inflammation, and ameliorated ECM degradation. In conclusion, the multifunctional platform developed presents a promising alternative for the treatment of tendinopathy.

Hypoxia-Inducible Factor and Oxidative Stress in Tendon Degeneration: A Molecular Perspective

Tendinopathy is a debilitating condition marked by degenerative changes in the tendons. Its complex pathophysiology involves intrinsic, extrinsic, and physiological factors. While its intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been extensively studied, the role of physiological factors, such as hypoxia and oxidative stress, remains largely unexplored. This review article delves into the contribution of hypoxia-associated genes and oxidative-stress-related factors to tendon degeneration, offering insights into potential therapeutic strategies. The unique aspect of this study lies in its pathway-based evidence, which sheds light on how these factors can be targeted to enhance overall tendon health.

Naringin attenuates oxaliplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity: A molecular, biochemical, and histopathological approach in a rat model

Oxaliplatin (OXL) is a significant therapy agent for the worldwide increase in cancer cases. Naringin (4',5,7-trihydroxy flavonon 7-rhamnoglucoside, NRG) has a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials. This research aimed to investigate NRG activity in OXL-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Accordingly, OXL (4 mg/kg b.w.) in 5% glucose was injected intraperitoneally on the first, second, fifth, and sixth days, and NRG (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) was given orally 30 min before to treatment. Biochemical, genetic, and histological methods were utilized to investigate the function tests, oxidant/antioxidant status, inflammation, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways in kidney and liver tissues. Administration of NRG demonstrated an antioxidant effect by increasing the activities of OXL-induced reduced antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and decreasing the elevated lipid peroxidation parameter malondialdehyde levels. Nuclear factor-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and inducible nitric oxide synthase levels increased in OXL administered groups but reduced in NRG-treated groups. In the OXL-administered groups, NRG reduced the apoptosis-inducing factors Caspase-3 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein levels, while elevating the antiapoptotic factor Bcl-2 levels. OXL triggered prolonged ER stress by increasing the levels of ER stress parameters activating transcription factor 6, protein kinase R-like ER kinase, inositol-requiring enzyme 1α, and glucose-regulated protein 78. Therefore, with the NRG administration, this activity was reduced and the ER stress level decreased. Taken together, it was found that OXL induced toxicity by increasing the levels of urea and creatinine, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities, inflammation, apoptosis, ER stress, and oxidants in the liver and kidney tissue, and NRG had a protective effect by reversing the deterioration in these pathways.

Pristimerin suppresses AIM2 inflammasome by modulating AIM2-PYCARD/ASC stability via selective autophagy to alleviate tendinopathy

Macroautophagy/autophagy plays an important role in regulating cellular homeostasis and influences the pathogenesis of degenerative diseases. Tendinopathy is characterized by tendon degeneration and inflammation. However, little is known about the role of selective autophagy in tendinopathy. Here, we find that pristimerin (PM), a quinone methide triterpenoid, is more effective in treating tendinopathy than the first-line drug indomethacin. PM inhibits the AIM2 inflammasome and alleviates inflammation during tendinopathy by promoting the autophagic degradation of AIM2 through a PYCARD/ASC-dependent manner. A mechanistic study shows that PM enhances the K63-linked ubiquitin chains of PYCARD/ASC at K158/161, which serves as a recognition signal for SQSTM1/p62-mediated autophagic degradation of the AIM2-PYCARD/ASC complex. We further identify that PM binds the Cys53 site of deubiquitinase USP50 through the Michael-acceptor and blocks the binding of USP50 to PYCARD/ASC, thereby reducing USP50-mediated cleavage of K63-linked ubiquitin chains of PYCARD/ASC. Finally, PM treatment in vivo generates an effect comparable to inflammasome deficiency in alleviating tendinopathy. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that PM alleviates the progression of tendinopathy by modulating AIM2-PYCARD/ASC stability via SQSTM1/p62-mediated selective autophagic degradation, thus providing a promising autophagy-based therapeutic for tendinopathy.Abbreviations: 3-MA: 3-methyladenine; AIM2: absent in melanoma 2; AT: Achilles tenotomy; ATP: adenosine triphosphate; BMDMs: bone marrow-derived macrophages; CHX: cycloheximide; Col3a1: collagen, type III, alpha 1; CQ: chloroquine; Cys: cysteine; DARTS: drug affinity responsive target stability; DTT: dithiothreitol; DUB: deubiquitinase; gDNA: genomic DNA; GSH: glutathione; His: histidine; IL1B/IL-1β: interleukin 1 beta; IND: indomethacin; IP: immunoprecipitation; LPS: lipopolysaccharide; MMP: mitochondrial membrane potential; NLRP3: NLR family, pyrin domain containing 3; PM: pristimerin; PYCARD/ASC: PYD and CARD domain containing; SN: supernatants; SOX9: SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 9; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; Tgfb: transforming growth factor, beta; TIMP3: tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3; TNMD: tenomodulin; TRAF6: TNF receptor-associated factor 6; Ub: ubiquitin; USP50: ubiquitin specific peptidase 50; WCL: whole cell lysates.

Mycoplasma synoviae induce spleen tissue damage and inflammatory response of chicken through oxidative stress and apoptosis

Mycoplasma synovium (MS) is a prominent avian pathogen known to elicit robust inflammatory responses in birds while evading immune detection, often leading to chronic infection and immune compromise. The mechanisms underpinning MS-mediated splenic tissue damage in chickens, however, remain undefined. In our investigation with 7-day-old SPF chickens, we administered an MS-Y bacterial solution (200 µl, 1 × 109 CCU/ml) through eye and nose droplets, collecting spleen samples on days 3, 6, and 12 post-infection. Comprehensive analyses utilizing histopathology, electron microscopy, TUNEL assay, qRT-PCR, and western blot were employed. Results demonstrated that MS-infection downregulated T-SOD, GSH-PX, and CAT, while concurrently elevating iNOS, NO, and MDA levels. Evidently, MS-induced oxidative stress compromised the spleen's antioxidant defences. Histological examinations pinpointed splenic damage characterized by lymphocyte reduction and increased inflammatory cell infiltration. Ultrastructural observations revealed clear apoptotic markers, including mitochondrial perturbations and nuclear anomalies. Importantly, MS induced significant spleen tissue apoptosis, as supported by TUNEL assay outputs and gene expression profiles associated with apoptosis. Concurrently, we observed upregulated expressions of mRNAs and proteins affiliated with the NF-κB/MAPK signalling cascade (p < 0.05). Collectively, our data elucidate that MS infection induces splenic apoptosis and oxidative disturbances, perturbs tissue integrity, and potentiates the NF-κB/MAPK-mediated inflammatory cascade.

Effects of sinapic acid on lead acetate-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testicular tissue

In this study, the effect of lead acetate (PbAc) and sinapic acid (SNP) administration on oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, sperm quality and histopathology in testicular tissue of rats was tried to be determined. PbAc was administered at a dose of 30 mg/kg/bw for 7 days to induce testicular toxicity in rats. Oral doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg/bw SNP were administered to rats for 7 days after PbAc administration. According to our findings, while PbAc administration increased MDA content in rats, it decreased GPx, SOD, CAT activity and GSH content. NF-kB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and COX-2, which are among the inflammation parameters that increased due to PbAc, decreased with the administration of SNP. Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 mRNA transcript levels decreased with PbAc, but SNP treatments increased these mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner. RAGE and NLRP3 gene expression were upregulated in PbAc treated rats. MAPK14, MAPK15, and JNK relative mRNA levels decreased with SNP treatment in PbAc treated rats. While the levels of apoptosis markers Bax, Caspase-3, and Apaf-1 increased in rats treated with PbAc, the level of Bcl-2 decreased, but SNP inhibited this apoptosis markers. PbAc caused histopathological deterioration in testis tissue and negatively affected spermatogenesis. When the sperm quality was examined, the decrease in sperm motility and spermatozoon density caused by PbAc, and the increase in the ratio of dead and abnormal spermatozoa were inhibited by SNP. As a result, while PbAc increased apoptosis and inflammation by inducing oxidative stress in testicles, SNP treatment inhibited these changes and increased sperm quality.

Nutritional Supplements in the Clinical Management of Tendinopathy: A Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION

Tendinopathy has a high prevalence and incidence in the general population and among athletes, with a lack of consensus among medical practitioners on optimal management strategies. The objective of this scoping review was to evaluate current research on the use of nutritional supplements for treating tendinopathies, including what supplements have been used and what outcomes, outcome measures, and intervention parameters have been reported.

METHODS

Databases searched included Embase, SPORTDiscus, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and AMED. This scoping review considered primary studies investigating nutritional supplements for tendinopathies and was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews.

RESULTS

A total of 1527 articles were identified with 16 included in the review. Studies investigated a range of nutritional supplements in the clinical management of various tendinopathies, including several commercially available proprietary blends of several ingredients. TendoActive (mucopolysaccharides, type I collagen, and vitamin C) was used in 2 studies, TENDISULFUR (methylsulfonylmethane, hydrolyzed collagen, L-arginine, L-lysine, vitamin C, bromelain, chondroitin, glucosamine, Boswellia, and myrrh) was used in 3 studies, and Tenosan (arginine-L-alpha ketoglutarate, hydrolyzed collagen type I, methylsulfonylmethane, vitamin C, bromelain, and vinitrox) was used in 2 studies. Collagen peptides were used in 2 studies, with omega-3 fatty acids, combined fatty acids and antioxidants, turmeric rhizome combined with Boswellia, β-hydroxy β-methylbutyric, vitamin C in isolation and combined with gelatin, and creatine investigated in one study each.

CONCLUSION

Despite a paucity of studies to date, findings from this review suggest that several nutritional compounds may be beneficial in the clinical management of tendinopathies, by exerting anti-inflammatory effects and improving tendon healing. Nutritional supplements may have potential as an adjunctive method to standard treatment methods such as exercise, where their pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and structural tendon effects may augment the positive functional outcomes gained from progressive exercise rehabilitation.

Zingerone reduces sodium arsenite-induced nephrotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and histopathological changes

Arsenic is widely available in the environment and arsenic toxicity is a public health problem of serious concern worldwide. Zingerone is a promising phytochemical with various pharmacological effects. In this study, the potential protective effect of zingerone against sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂, SA) induced nephrotoxicity was investigated. Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five different groups as control, zingerone, SA, SA + zingerone 25, SA + zingerone 50. SA was administered alone at a dose of 10 mg/kg for 14 days or given 30 min before zingerone (25 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg) treatment. At the end of the experiment, the kidney tissues was examined biochemically, molecularly and microscopically. SA toxicity was associated with increased malondialdehyde level, whereas glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were decreased. Administration of SA caused inflammation in the kidney tissue by upregulation of NF-κB and IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, COX-2, MAPK14, MAPK15, JNK. SA administration caused apoptosis in the kidney by upregulating caspase-3 and Bax levels and downregulating Bcl-2, and autophagy by activating beclin-1. Also, SA administration showed a suppressive effect on AKT2 and FOXO1 mRNA transcript levels. All these factors impair kidney function and increase creatinine and urea levels, resulting in pathological changes and a decrease in nephrin. Treatment with zingerone at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg significantly reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy in kidney tissue. In addition, it was confirmed by histological evaluation as well as serum urea and creatinine levels that kidney damage due to SA toxicity can be modulated by zingerone administration.

Global trends in research of achilles tendon injury/rupture: A bibliometric analysis, 2000–2021

Background

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and most susceptible tendon in humans. Achilles tendon injuries and ruptures have gradually attracted research attention. However, a bibliometric analysis of global research in this field is lacking. This study involved a bibliometric analysis of the developmental trends and research hotspots in Achilles tendon injuries/ruptures from 2000 to 2021.

Methods

Articles published between 2001 and 2021 were retrieved from an extended database of the Science Citation Index using Web of Science. VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to analyze the relationships between publications, countries, institutions, journals, authors, references, and keywords.

Results

This study included 3,505 studies of 73 countries, 3,274 institutions, and 12,298 authors and explored the cooperation between them and the relationships between citations. Over the past 22 years, the number of publications has significantly increased. Foot Ankle International has published the most papers on Achilles tendon injuries/ruptures, and British Journal of Sports Medicine is the most famous journal. Re-rupture, exosomes, acute Achilles tendon rupture, and tendon adhesions gradually become the research focus over the past few years.

Conclusion

Achilles tendon injury and rupture are important research topics. A vast number of newly published papers on this topic have demonstrated that clinicians and researchers are interested in their study. Over time, these recent studies will be widely cited; therefore, this bibliometric analysis should be constantly updated.

Carvacrol protects against λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy

λ-Cyhalothrin, a type II synthetic pyrethroid, has been widely used in households, agriculture, public health, and gardening to control insect pests. Despite its widespread usage, it is known to induce a variety of adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effect of carvacrol, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and some other properties, on λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity 35 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups for this purpose: I-Control group: II-CRV group (50 mg/kg carvacrol), III-LCT group (6.23 mg/kg LCT), IV-LCT + CRV 25 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 25 mg/kg carvacrol), and V-LCT + CRV 50 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 50 mg/kg carvacrol). Using biochemical, real-time PCR, and western blotting methods, the collected tissues were analyzed. While λ-Cyhalothrin treatment increased MDA levels, which are indicated of lipid peroxidation, but reduced SOD, CAT, GPx activities, and GSH levels. After receiving carvacrol therapy, the degree of oxidative stress reduced as the values of these parameters approached those of the control group. Increased inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy with λ-Cyhalothrin administration reduced with carvacrol co-administration, and liver and kidney tissues were protected from damage, depending on the degree of oxidative stress. After considering all of these data, it was discovered that λ-Cyhalothrin-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy in the liver and kidneys; however, carvacrol protected the tissues from damage. Our findings indicate that carvacrol may be a promising protective agent in λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Molecular and biochemical investigation of the protective effects of rutin against liver and kidney toxicity caused by malathion administration in a rat model

Widely used malathion (MLT) causes environmental pollution, leading to toxicity in many living things, including humans. Rutin (RUT) is a flavonoid with various biological properties. In the present study, the protective effects of rutin against liver and kidney toxicity caused by malathion were investigated. In the study, MLT (100 mg/kg) and RUT (50 or 100 mg/kg) were administered to rats alone or in combination for 28 days. Then, oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), apoptosis, and autophagy markers in liver and kidney tissues were analyzed by biochemical and molecular methods. The results showed that MLT caused oxidative stress in both tissues, while RUT showed antioxidant properties and protected these tissues from oxidative damage. Moreover, MLT upregulated the expressions of ATF-6, PERK, IRE1, GRP78, and CHOP, leading to ERS. However, RUT alleviated ER stress and suppressed these markers. The study also found that MLT increased inflammatory, apoptotic, and autophagic markers. All these factors affected liver and kidney functions and caused an increase in plasma ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels. On the other hand, it has been observed that RUT may protect liver and kidney tissues from the destructive effect of MLT by showing anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-autophagic properties. Thus, it was determined that ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels decreased after RUT treatment. As a result, it was observed that MLT had a toxic effect on the liver and kidney tissues of rats, and it was determined that this toxicity could be alleviated by RUT treatment.

Is Curcumine Useful in the Treatment and Prevention of the Tendinopathy and Myotendinous Junction Injury? A Scoping Review

Physical activity in general and sports in particular, is a mechanism that produces stress and generates great force in the tendon and in the muscle-tendon unit, which increases the risk of injury (tendinopathies). Eccentric and repetitive contraction of the muscle precipitates persistent microtraumatism in the tendon unit. In the development of tendinopathies, the cellular process includes inflammation, apoptosis, vascular, and neuronal changes. Currently, treatments with oral supplements are frequently used. Curcumin seems to preserve, and even repair, damaged tendons. In this systematic review, we focus more especially on the benefits of curcumin. The biological actions of curcumin are diverse, but act around three systems: (a) inflammatory, (b) nuclear factor B (NF-κB) related apoptosis pathways, and (c) oxidative stress systems. A bibliographic search is conducted under the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) as a basis for reporting reliable systematic reviews to perform a Scoping review. After analysing the manuscripts, we can conclude that curcumin is a product that demonstrates a significant biological antialgic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant power. Therefore, supplementation has a positive effect on the inflammatory and regenerative response in tendinopathies. In addition, curcumin decreases and modulates the cell infiltration, activation, and maturation of leukocytes, as well as the production of pro-inflammatory mediators at the site of inflammation.

Evaluation of protective effects of quercetin against cypermethrin-induced lung toxicity in rats via oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway

Cypermethrin (CYP), a type II synthetic pyrethroid, is the most widely used insecticide worldwide. Inhalation of it may cause side effects. This study is aimed to examine potential protection of quercetin (QUE) which is a well-known antioxidant in CYP-induced lung toxicity. Accordingly, 35 Spraque Dawley male rats were divided into five equal groups as follows: I-Control group, II-QUE group (50 mg/kg/b.w. QUE), III-CYP group (25 mg/kg/b.w. CYP), IV-CYP + QUE 25 (25 mg/kg/b.w. CYP + 25 mg/kg/b.w. QUE), V-CYP + QUE (25 mg/kg/b.w. CYP + 50 mg/kg/b.w. QUE) were treated with oral gavage throughout 28 days. CYP intoxication was associated with increased malondialdehyde level while glutathione concentration, activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase reduced. CYP adminisitration caused of apoptosis in the lung by up-regulating caspase-3 and Bax levels and down-regulating Bcl-2. CYP also caused of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by increasing mRNA transcript levels of PERK, IRE1, ATF6, and GRP78. Additionally, it was observed that CYP administration activated IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MAPK14 signaling pathway and levels of IL-1β, NF-κB, TNF-α, and iNOS in the lung tissue. Therefore, it was determined that CYP administration triggered autophagy by upregulating LC3A and LC3B mRNA transcript levels. Moreover, the protein levels of NF-κB, caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, and cytochorme-c were examined by Western blot analysis. However, co-treatment with QUE at a dose of 25 and 50 mg/kg considerably protective oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, ER stress, autophagy, and IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MAPK14 signaling pathway in lung tissue. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that lung damage associated with CYP toxicity could be protected by QUE administration.

Cross-Linked Hyaluronate and Corticosteroid Combination Ameliorate the Rat Experimental Tendinopathy through Anti-Senescent and -Apoptotic Effects

The combination of cross-linked hyaluronate (cHA) and corticosteroid showed more rapid pain or functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis and adhesive capsulitis. However, rare evidence of this combination in treating tendinopathy has been reported. We hypothesized that the specific formulations of cHA and dexamethasone (DEX) conferred amelioration of tendinopathy via anti-apoptosis and anti-senescence. In this controlled laboratory study, primary tenocytes from the human tendinopathic long head of biceps were treated with three cHA formulations (cHA:linealized HA = 80:20, 50:50, and 20:80) + DEX with or without IL-1β stimulation. Cell viability, inflammatory cytokines, tendon-related proliferation markers, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), senescent markers, and apoptosis were examined. The in vivo therapeutic effects of the selected cHA + DEX combinations were evaluated in a collagenase-induced rat patellar tendinopathy model. The expression levels of inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, MMP-1, and MMP-3 were significantly reduced in all cHA + DEX-treated tenocytes (p < 0.05, all). The cHA (50:50) + DEX and cHA (20:80) + DEX combinations protected tenocytes from cytotoxicity, senescence, and apoptosis induced by DEX in either IL-1β stimulation or none. Furthermore, the two combinations significantly improved the rat experimental tendinopathy by reducing ultrasound feature scores and histological scores as well as the levels of apoptosis, senescence, and senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (p < 0.05, all). We identified two specific cHA formulations (cHA (50:50) and cHA (20:80)) + DEX that could ameliorate tendinopathy through anti-senescence and -apoptosis without cytotoxicity. This study provides a possible approach to treating tendinopathy using the combination of two well-known agents.

Effect of Vitamin C on Tendinopathy Recovery: A Scoping Review

Tendinopathies represent 30–50% of all sports injuries. The tendon response is influenced by the load (volume, intensity, and frequency) that the tendon support, resulting in irritability and pain, among others. The main molecular component of tendons is collagen I (60–85%). The rest consist of glycosaminoglycans-proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and other collagen subtypes. This study’s aim was to critically evaluate the efficacy of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of tendinopathies. At the same time, the study aims to determine the optimal conditions (dose and time) for vitamin C supplementation. A structured search was carried out in the SCOPUS, Medline (PubMed), and Web of Science (WOS) databases. The inclusion criteria took into account studies describing optimal tendon recovery when using vitamin C alone or in combination with other compounds. The study design was considered, including randomized, double-blind controlled, and parallel designs in animal models or humans. The main outcome is that vitamin C supplementation is potentially useful as a therapeutic approach for tendinopathy recovery. Vitamin C supplementation, alone or in combination with other products, increases collagen synthesis with a consequent improvement in the patient’s condition. On the other hand, vitamin C deficiency is mainly associated with a decrease in procollagen synthesis and reduced hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, hindering the tendon repair process.

Modulation of Inflammation by Plant-Derived Nutraceuticals in Tendinitis

Tendinitis (tendinopathy) is a pro-inflammatory and painful tendon disease commonly linked with mechanical overuse and associated injuries, drug abuse, and lifestyle factors (including poor diet and physical inactivity) that causes significant healthcare expenditures due to its high incidence. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is one of the major pro-inflammatory transcription factors, along with other inflammation signaling pathways, triggered by a variety of stimuli, including cytokines, endotoxins, physical and chemical stressors, hypoxia, and other pro-inflammatory factors. Their activation is known to regulate the expression of a multitude of genes involved in inflammation, degradation, and cell death. The pathogenesis of tendinitis is still poorly understood, whereas efficient and sustainable treatment is missing. Targeting drug suppression of the key inflammatory regulators represents an effective strategy for tendinitis therapy, but requires a comprehensive understanding of their principles of action. Conventional monotherapies are often ineffective and associated with severe side effects in patients. Therefore, agents that modulate multiple cellular targets represent therapeutic treatment potential. Plant-derived nutraceuticals have been shown to act as multi-targeting agents against tendinitis via various anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, whereat they were able to specifically modulate numerous signaling pathways, including NF-κB, p38/MAPK, JNK/STAT3, and PI3K/Akt, thus down-regulating inflammatory processes. This review discusses the utility of herbal nutraceuticals that have demonstrated safety and tolerability as anti-inflammatory agents for the prevention and treatment of tendinitis through the suppression of catabolic signaling pathways. Limitations associated with the use of nutraceuticals are also described.

Roles of Oxidative Stress in Acute Tendon Injury and Degenerative Tendinopathy-A Target for Intervention

Both acute and chronic tendon injuries are disabling sports medicine problems with no effective treatment at present. Sustained oxidative stress has been suggested as the major factor contributing to fibrosis and adhesion after acute tendon injury as well as pathological changes of degenerative tendinopathy. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that the inhibition of oxidative stress can promote the tenogenic differentiation of tendon stem/progenitor cells, reduce tissue fibrosis and augment tendon repair. This review aims to systematically review the literature and summarize the clinical and pre-clinical evidence about the potential relationship of oxidative stress and tendon disorders. The literature in PubMed was searched using appropriate keywords. A total of 81 original pre-clinical and clinical articles directly related to the effects of oxidative stress and the activators or inhibitors of oxidative stress on the tendon were reviewed and included in this review article. The potential sources and mechanisms of oxidative stress in these debilitating tendon disorders is summarized. The anti-oxidative therapies that have been examined in the clinical and pre-clinical settings to reduce tendon fibrosis and adhesion or promote healing in tendinopathy are reviewed. The future research direction is also discussed.

Investigation of the effects of berberine on bortezomib-induced sciatic nerve and spinal cord damage in rats through pathways involved in oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation

Bortezomib (BTZ), a proteasome inhibitor, causes dose-limiting peripheral neuropathy in humans. Berberine (BBR), which has various biological and pharmacological properties, is known to have neuroprotective properties. The possible protective effects of BBR on peripheral neuropathy caused by BTZ were investigated in this study. For this purpose, BTZ was intraperitoneally given to Sprague dawley rats on the 1 st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th days with a cumulative dose of 0.8 mg/kg. Moreover, animals were orally administered 50 or 100 mg/kg BBR daily from day 1 to day 10. As a result of the analyzes performed on the sciatic nerve and spinal cord, it was observed that MDA levels and NRF-2, HO-1, NQO1, GCLC and GCLM mRNA transcript levels increased due to oxidative stress caused by BTZ, and the levels of these markers decreased after BBR administration. Also, it was determined that SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH levels increased after BBR treatment. It was observed that BTZ caused inflammation by triggering NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 cytokines, on the other hand, with BBR treatment, these cytokines were suppressed and inflammation was alleviated. In addition, it was determined that the expressions of RAGE, STAT3, NLRP3 and TLR4, which have important roles in inflammation, increased with BTZ administration, but BBR suppressed the expressions of these genes. It was determined that the expressions of SIRT1, which plays an important role in neuropathic pain, and CREB-LI neurons, which has an active role in neurite outgrowth and survival, decreased with BTZ administration. It was observed that GFAP levels increased with BTZ administration and decreased with BBR administration. Given all the findings, it was concluded that BBR exhibits protective qualities in the sciatic nerve and spinal cord induced by BTZ.