Hepatoprotective effect of chrysin on prooxidant-antioxidant status during ethanol-induced toxicity in female albino rats

Cinnamon nanoemulsion mitigates acetamiprid-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats: biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular docking analysis

Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a ‎week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels.Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies

Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) is characterized by the accumulation of lipids in liver cells owing to the metabolism of ethanol. This process leads to a decrease in the NAD+/NADH ratio and the generation of reactive oxygen species. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the role of oxidative stress in AFLD. A total of 201 eligible manuscripts were included, which revealed that animals with AFLD exhibited elevated expression of CYP2E1, decreased enzymatic activity of antioxidant enzymes, and reduced levels of the transcription factor Nrf2, which plays a pivotal role in the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, animals with AFLD exhibited increased levels of lipid peroxidation markers and carbonylated proteins, collectively contributing to a weakened antioxidant defense and increased oxidative damage. The liver damage in AFLD was supported by significantly higher activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferase enzymes. Moreover, animals with AFLD had increased levels of triacylglycerol in the serum and liver, likely due to reduced fatty acid metabolism caused by decreased PPAR-α expression, which is responsible for fatty acid oxidation, and increased expression of SREBP-1c, which is involved in fatty acid synthesis. With regard to inflammation, animals with AFLD exhibited elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-a, IL-1β, and IL-6. The heightened oxidative stress, along with inflammation, led to an upregulation of cell death markers, such as caspase-3, and an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Overall, the findings of the review and meta-analysis indicate that ethanol metabolism reduces important markers of antioxidant defense while increasing inflammatory and apoptotic markers, thereby contributing to the development of AFLD.

A Review on the Role of Phytoconstituents Chrysin on the Protective Effect on Liver and Kidney

BACKGROUND

The chance of contracting significant diseases increases due to an unhealthy and contemporary lifestyle. Chrysin is a flavonoid of the flavone class in numerous plants, including Passiflora and Pelargonium. Chrysin has long been used to treat a variety of illnesses. Chrysin, an essential flavonoid, has many pharmacological actions, including anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, depressive, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective activity.

PURPOSE

This explorative review was commenced to provide a holistic review of flavonoids confirming that Chrysin has a therapeutic potential on the liver and kidney and reduces the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by diverse toxicants, which can be helpful for the toxicologists, pharmacologists, and chemists to develop new safer pharmaceutical products with chrysin and other toxicants.

STUDY DESIGN

The most relevant studies that were well-explained and fit the chosen topic best were picked. The achieved information was analyzed to determine the outcome by screening sources by title, abstract, and whole work. Between themselves, the writers decided on the studies to be considered. The necessary details were systematically organized into titles and subtitles and compressively discussed.

METHOD

The information presented in this review is obtained using targeted searches on several online platforms, including Google Scholar, Scifinder, PubMed, Science Direct, ACS publications, and Wiley Online Library. The works were chosen based on the inclusion criteria agreed upon by all authors.

RESULTS

Chrysin is a promising bioactive flavonoid with significant health benefits, and its synthetic replacements are being utilized as pharmaceuticals to treat various diseases. Findings revealed that Chrysin exhibits hepatoprotective actions against several hepatotoxicants like 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), cisplatin, and others by lowering the levels of liver toxicity biomarkers and enhancing antioxidant levels. Additionally, chrysin has potential nephroprotective properties against various nephrotoxicants, like Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Paracetamol, Gentamicin, Streptazosin, and others by dropping kidney toxicity marker levels, reducing oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant level.

CONCLUSION

According to this revised study, chrysin is a promising phytoconstituent that can be utilized as an alternate treatment for various medications that cause hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. With active chrysin, several dosage forms targeting the liver and kidneys can be formulated.

Ameliorative Effects of Propolis and Royal Jelly against CCl4 -Induced Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity in Wistar Rats

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄ ) is known to have hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects. During the two-month CCl₄ exposure of Wistar rats, propolis extract (PE) and royal jelly (RJ) were added in order to test the potential protective effect against hepato-renal injury. Ketonuria, proteinuria, high creatinine and urea levels are the result of CCl₄ -induced nephrotoxicity. Severe disorders of hematological indicators indicate anemia; high values of leukocytes indicate inflammatory condition. Cytogenetic impairments in hepatocytes, aggregation of platelets, and hypoproteinemia indicate severe liver impairment. Results suggest a more significant protective role of RJ compared to PE. Both extracts regulated proteinuria, ketonuria, hypoproteinemia and reduced platelet aggregation in the hepatic circulation. The increase in the number of erythrocytes (RBC) suggest protective effects against anemia; the decrease in the number of leukocytes can be linked to anti-inflammatory effects. PE and RJ have a beneficial effect against hepato-renal injury, anemia and anti-inflammatory conditions caused by CCl₄ .

Pharmacological, Neurochemical, and Behavioral Mechanisms Underlying the Anxiolytic- and Antidepressant-like Effects of Flavonoid Chrysin

Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a flavonoid isolated from plants, such as Passiflora coerulea, Passiflora incarnata, and Matricaria chamomilla. This natural molecule exerts diverse pharmacological effects, which includes antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, and anti-apoptotic effects. Additionally, in brain structures, such as the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, raphe nucleus, and striatum, involved in the physiopathology of anxiety and depression disorders, several neuropharmacological activities, including the activation of neurotransmitter systems (GABAergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic, and noradrenergic), neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the nerve growth factor, and some signaling pathways are affected. The results showed that the anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of chrysin occurs through its interaction with specific neurotransmitter systems, principally the GABAergic and the serotonergic, and activation of other neurotrophic factors. However, it is not possible to discard the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of chrysin while producing its anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects. Although these results have been obtained principally from pre-clinical research, they consistently demonstrate the potential therapeutic use of flavonoid chrysin as an anxiolytic and antidepressant agent. Therefore, this flavonoid could be considered as a promising novel therapy for anxiety and depression disorders.

Protective effect of chrysin on indomethacin induced gastric ulcer in rats: role of multi-pathway regulation

We investigated the potential gastroprotective effects of chrysin on indomethacin induced gastric ulcers in rats. We used six groups of animals: control; indomethacin (Indo); reference (Ulcuran®); indomethacin + 25 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR25); indomethacin + 50 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR50); indomethacin + 100 mg/kg chrysin (Indo + CHR100). All doses of chrysin were given orally to rats before indomethacin. Gastric lesions were examined macroscopically and microscopically. The effects of treatment with chrysin were assessed versus a single dose of 30 mg/kg Ulcuran® (generic ranitidine) as reference standard. We also investigated gastric mucosal superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), malonaldehyde (MDA) and arginase activities, and COX-2, PGE₂, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, NFκB, MPO, Bax, caspase-3 and 8-OHdG levels. We assessed caspase-3 and Bax levels using immunohistochemistry. Compared to the control and reference groups, SOD, CAT, GPx and arginase activities and GSH levels decreased, and MDA levels increased in the indomethacin induced gastric ulcer group. iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, NFκB, MAPK-14, MPO, Bax and 8-OHdG levels were increased in the indomethacin treated gastric group, while COX-2 activity and PGE₂ levels were decreased. The three doses of chrysin co-administered with indomethacin increased COX-2 activity and PGE₂ levels in rats with ulcers. Chrysin exhibited gastroprotective effects on indomethacin induced gastric ulcer due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives of the Chrysin Flavonoid as Anticancer Agents

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Chrysin and its derivatives proved to possess potential anti-tumour activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A new series of chrysin analogs containing 1,2,3-triazoles with different substituent groups (5a-5l) was designed, synthesized, and evaluated as potential anticancer agents. The synthesized compounds were characterized using FT-IR, 1H NMR 13C NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

The anticancer activities of the synthesized compounds were studied in four cancer cell lines viz. PC3, PC3-PSMA, MCF-7 and UM-UC-3 using doxorubicin as standard. Among all the tested compounds, 5c was found as most active with IC50 value of 10.8 ± 0.04 μM in PC3 cells and 20.53 ± 0.21 μMin MCF-7 cells, respectively. Flow cytometry analyses indicated that synthesized compounds 5a, 5c, and 5h arrested MCF-7 cells at the G2/M phase in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Chyrsin derivatives could be novel anticancer agents.

Chrysin, but not flavone backbone, decreases anxiety-like behavior in animal screens

Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone), a nutraceutical flavonoid present in diverse plants, has a backbone structure shared with the flavone backbone, with additional hydroxyl groups that confers its antioxidant properties and effects at the GABA_A receptor complex. However, whether these effects are due to the hydroxyl groups is unknown. Here we report the effects of chrysin or the flavone backbone (1 mg/kg) in rats subjected to the elevated plus-maze and the locomotor activity test, as well as in the zebrafish evaluated in light/dark model. Chrysin, but not flavone, increased entries and time in the open arms of the elevated plus-maze, as well as time on white compartment of the light/dark model in zebrafish. These effects were comparable to diazepam, and were devoid of motor effects in both tests, as well as in the locomotor activity test. On the other hand, flavone decreased risk assessment in the light/dark test but increased rearing in the locomotor activity test in rats, suggesting effects threat information gathering; important species differences suggest new avenues of research. It is suggested that the specific effects of chrysin in relation to flavone include more of a mechanism of action in which in addition to its action at the GABA_A/benzodiazepine receptor complex also could be involved its free radical scavenging abilities, which require specific research. Preprint: https://doi.org/10.1101/575514; Data and scripts:https://github.com/lanec-unifesspa/chrysin.

Chrysin loaded lipid-core nanocapsules ameliorates neurobehavioral alterations induced by β-amyloid1-42 in aged female mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a clinically and progressive loss of cognitive function, neuropsychiatric and behavioral disorders. Some studies showed that chrysin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, your bioavailability is relatively low. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of chrysin loaded lipid-core nanocapsules (LNCs) on neurochemical and behavioral changes in a model of AD induced by β-amyloid_1-42 (Aβ_1-42) peptide in aged female mice. For this purpose, aged female mice received free chrysin (FC) (5 mg/kg, per oral, p.o.) or chrysin loaded LNCs (C1-LNC and C5-LNC) (1 or 5 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days after Aβ_1-42 administration (400 pmol, i.c.v.). Aβ_1-42 induced significant impairments on memory and learning (morris water maze task, object recognition and step-down-type passive avoidance), also caused oxidative stress, reduced the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), increased neuroinflammation in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of aged animals. Thus, C1-LNC and C5-LNC displayed significant effect against Aβ₁_-₄_2, via attenuation of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, modulation of neurochemical and behavioral changes in a model of AD. These results point to chrysin loaded LNCs (mainly C5-LNC) can be a promising biomedical tool and a new therapeutic approach for treatment and prevention of AD.

The protective effect of chrysin against carbon tetrachloride-induced kidney and liver tissue damage in rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective effects of chrysin on oxidative status and histological alterations against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver and kidney tissue in rats. The animals were randomly divided into four groups; the control, chrysin (100 mg/kg), CCl₄ (0.5 ml/kg) and chrysin + CCl₄ groups. Liver and kidney injuries were assessed by biochemical and histopathological examinations. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured in tissues. Serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, and creatinine levels were also measured in blood samples. MDA, serum TNF-α, AST, ALT, urea, and creatinine levels (p < 0.05) were significantly higher, and SOD activity and GSH level were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the CCl₄ group than in the control group. Treatment with chrysin in the chrysin + CCl₄ group decreased MDA, AST, ALT, creatinine, and TNF-α levels (p < 0.05), and increased SOD activity, GSH levels (p < 0.05), and serum TNF-α levels (p < 0.05). In addition, body weight change (BWC) (p < 0.05) and feed intake (FI) were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the CCl₄ group than in the control group. Moreover, treatment with chrysin increased BWC and FI in the chrysin + CCl₄ group compared with that in the CCl₄ group. These findings also confirmed by histopathological examination. The chrysin treatment ameliorated the CCl₄-induced biochemical and pathological alterations. These results demonstrated that chrysin provided amelioration on the rat liver and kidney tissues CCl₄-induced injury by increasing the antioxidant activity.

Alterations in the Transcriptional Profile of the Liver Tissue and the Therapeutic Effects of Propolis Extracts in Alcohol-induced Steatosis in Rats

The hepatoprotective effects of the ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEP) on alcohol-induced liver steatosis were investigated in Wistar rats. Chronic alcoholic fatty liver was induced by administration of 52% alcohol to male Wistar rats at the dose of 1% body weight for 7 weeks. Then animals were simultaneously treated with 50% ethanol solutions of EEP or normal saline at the dose of 0.1% body weight for 4 further weeks. Serological analyses and liver histopathology studies were performed to investigate the development of steatosis. Microarray analysis was conducted to investigate the alterations of hepatic gene expression profiling. Our results showed that 4-week treatment of EEP helped to restore the levels of various blood indices, liver function enzymes and the histopathology of liver tissue to normal levels. Results from the microarray analysis revealed that the hepatic expressions of genes involved in lipogenesis were significantly down-regulated by EEP treatment, while the transcriptional expressions of functional genes participating in fatty acids oxidation were markedly increased. The ability of EEP to reduce the negative effects of alcohol on liver makes propolis a potential natural product for the alternative treatment of alcoholic fatty liver.

A comprehensive review on hepatoprotective and nephroprotective activities of chrysin against various drugs and toxic agents

Chrysin belongs to the flavonoids and has been used as traditional medicine from ancient and has been reported to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological properties. The biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in the hepato- and nephroprotective activities of chrysin were discussed in this review. Chrysin exhibited hepatoprotective activity against 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, carbon tetrachloride, cisplatin, d-galactosamine, doxorubicin, ethanol, lipopolysaccharide/d-galactosamine, methotrexate, ammonium chloride, paracetamol, diethylnitrosamine, streptozotocin, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, thioacetamide, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4,5-b] pyridine (PhIP), ischemia/reperfusion-induced hepatotoxicity and nephroprotective activity against cisplatin, doxorubicin, paracetamol, gentamicin, streptazotocin, N-nitrosodiethyl amine, 5-fluorouracil, adenine, carbon tetrachloride, copper, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin, colistin, Nω-nitro-l-arginine-methylester and ethanol in various animal models due to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic activities. In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms by which chrysin reduced the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of different toxicants. This will help the toxicologists, pharmacologists and chemists to develop new safer pharmaceutical products with chrysin and other toxicants.

The flavonoid chrysin protects against zearalenone induced reproductive toxicity in male mice

The mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) has strong estrogenic effects and elicits reproductive toxicity. Chrysin is a natural flavonoid found in many plant and has a broad range of pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of chrysin against ZEA toxicity. Mice received chrysin (5 or 20 mg/kg; i.g.) for ten days, and then received a single injection of ZEA (40 mg/kg). Two days thereafter, blood and testes were collected. ZEA decreased number and motility of sperm, plasma testosterone levels, enzymatic (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase) and non-enzimatic defenses (reduced glutathione). Moreover, ZEA increased 4-hydroxynonenal and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels, myeloperoxidase activity and levels of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukins-1β and 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha). ZEA also decreased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 and increased activity of caspases 3 and 9. Chrysin treatment increased the number and motility of sperm, testosterone levels, restored antioxidant defenses and reduced the inflammation and apoptosis process. In summary, chrysin attenuated the toxic effects caused by ZEA in blood and testes of mice, suggesting a potential preventive treatment against the deleterious effects of ZEA.

Effect of chrysin on the formation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine, a toxic metabolite of paracetamol in rats and isolated rat hepatocytes

Paracetamol (N-acetyl-para amino phenol) is the most commonly used analgesic and antipyretic around the world. Its causes hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity at overdose or even at therapeutic doses. It is primarily metabolized by glucuronidation and sulfate conjugation. It is also metabolized by cytochrome-P450 system (CYP2E1, CYP1A2 and CYP 3A4), leading to the formation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI). The present study was planned to investigate the influence of chrysin (known CYP2E1 and CYP3A4 inhibitor) on the bioactivation of paracetamol to NAPQI using rat liver microsomes in vitro and rats in vivo. Paracetamol (80 mg/kg) was administered orally without or with silymarin (100 mg/kg), a known CYP2E1 inhibitor and chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg) to rats for 15 consecutive days. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC_0-∞) and the peak plasma concentration (C_max) of paracetamol were dose-dependently increased with chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg) compared to paracetamol control group. On the other hand, the AUC_0-∞ and C_max of NAPQI were decreased significantly with chrysin (100 and 200 mg/kg). The elevated liver and kidney function markers were significantly reduced by chrysin and silymarin compared to paracetamol control group (P < 0.01). Histopathological studies of liver and kidney also well correlated with liver and kidney function tests. Chrysin also reduced the formation of NAPQI in the incubation samples of rat hepatocytes. The present study (both in vivo and in vitro) results revealed that chrysin might be inhibited the CYP2E1, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of paracetamol; thereby decreased the formation of NAPQI and protected the liver and kidney.

Chrysin: Sources, beneficial pharmacological activities, and molecular mechanism of action

In recent years, public and scientific interest in plant flavonoids has tremendously increased because of their postulated health benefits. This review was mainly focuses on the flavone chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone), which occurs naturally in many plants, honey, and propolis. A number of in vitro and in vivo studies have revealed the therapeutic effects of chrysin against various diseases. In general, chrysin exhibits many biological activities and pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral activities. Moreover, many studies have reported on the bioavailability of chrysin. Because of its compromised bioavailability and enhanced protein stability, chrysin solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) synthesis avoids proteolytic degradation and sustained release of drug delivery. To clarify the mechanism of action of chrysin, researchers have investigated the structural binding relationship of chrysin through the docking computation method.

In vivo cellular and molecular gastroprotective mechanisms of chrysin; Emphasis on oxidative stress, inflammation and angiogenesis

Gastric ulcer is one of the major gastrointestinal disorders affecting people worldwide. Despite medical advances, management of gastric ulcer and its complications remains a challenge facing medicine nowadays. In addition, currently available medicines exhibit limited efficacy and several side effects. In the current study, the potential protective effects of chrysin -naturally occurring flavonoid - were tested against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. It was found that chrysin in both doses; 50 and 100mg/kg were effective in promoting mucus secretion and preventing the rise in ulcer and lesion indices, acid production and histologic changes induced by indomethacin. During investigation of the possible underlying mechanisms, chrysin significantly attenuated indomethacin-induced oxidative injury and inflammatory response. Also, chrysin activated peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-ɣ (PPAR-ɣ) leading to a phenotypic switch from pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages to the anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages that evidenced by the upregulated mRNA expression levels of PPAR-ɣ and M2 marker genes (Arg-1 and CD206) and down regulation of M1 marker genes (IL-6 and CCL3). Furthermore, chrysin promoted angiogenesis via increasing expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and cluster of differentiation-31 (CD31). Collectively, these findings indicate that chrysin possesses a potential protective effect against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer.

Protective effect of 5, 7-dihydroxyflavone on brain of rats exposed to acrylamide or γ-radiation

5, 7-Dihydroxyflavone (DHF), a natural plant flavonoid, have shown a variety of beneficial effects. Neurotoxic effects of acrylamide (ACR) or gamma irradiation (IR) have been established in humans and animals. The current study was designed to evaluate whether DHF could restrain ACR or IR induced neurotoxicity in rats and to explore the underlying mechanisms. The study was carried out by investigating some biochemical and biophysical parameters as well as histopathological examination. The daily oral administration of ACR (25mg/kg b.wt.) for 21days or exposure to single dose of IR (5Gy) induced brain damage throughout the significant decrease in catecholamine contents and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in brain tissue with a concomitant significant decrease in serum activity of creatinine kinase-BB. Moreover, the brain levels of MDA and β-amyloid and activities of acetylcholinesterase and caspase-3 were remarkably augmented in ACR-induced rats. Additionally, the electrical properties of erythrocytes membrane were significantly disturbed. The administration of DHF (50mg/kg b.wt. daily for 21day) to rats exposed to either ACR or IR significantly reversed the alteration in all studied parameters. Histopathological investigation of brain tissues supported the neuroprotective effect of DHF on brain. From the obtained data, it can be concluded that the DHF has neuroprotective effect against ACR or IR induced-neurotoxicity.

Protective Effects of Chrysin Against Drugs and Toxic Agents

Issues:

Polyphenolic compounds, especially flavonoids, are known as the most common chemical class of phytochemicals, which possess a multiple range of health-promoting effects. Flavonoids are ubiquitous in nature. They are also present in food, providing an essential link between diet and prevention of several diseases.

Approach:

Chrysin (CH), a natural flavonoid, was commonly found in propolis and honey and traditionally used in herbal medicine. A growing body of scientific evidence has shown that CH possesses protective effects against toxic agents in various animal tissues, including brain, heart, liver, kidney, and lung.

Key Findings:

This study found that CH may be effective in disease management induced by toxic agents. However, due to the lack of information on human, further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of CH as an antidote agent in human.

Conclusion:

The present article aimed to critically review the available literature data regarding the protective effects of CH against toxic agent–induced toxicities as well as its possible mechanisms.

Chrysin Protects Rat Kidney from Paracetamol-Induced Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Autophagy: A Multi-Biomarker Approach

Paracetamol (PC) is a safe analgesic and antipyretic drug at therapeutic doses, and it is widely used in clinics. However, at high doses, it can induce hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Chrysin (CR) is a natural flavonoid that has biological activities that include being an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, and an anti-cancer agent. The main objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of CR against PC-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. CR was given orally via feeding needle to male Sprague Dawley rats as a single daily dose of 25 or 50 mg/kg for six days. PC was administered orally via feeding needle as a single dose on the sixth day. PC caused significant glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation, increased serum toxicity markers (serum urea and creatinine), and reductions in activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase — SOD, catalase — CAT, and glutathione peroxidase — GPx). The renal protective effect of CR was associated with decreasing the regulation of serum renal toxicity markers and increasing the regulation of antioxidant enzyme activities. Additionally, PC led to significant increases in the levels of inflammatory markers including tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-33 (IL-33). Furthermore, PC induced apoptotic tissue damage by increasing cysteine aspartate-specific protease-3 (caspase-3) activity and autophagic tissue damage by increasing the expression of light chain 3B (LC3B). CR therapy significantly decreased these values in rats. This study demonstrated that CR has antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-autophagic effects on PC-induced kidney toxicity in rats.

Chrysin, a PPAR-γ agonist improves myocardial injury in diabetic rats through inhibiting AGE-RAGE mediated oxidative stress and inflammation

AGE-RAGE interaction mediated oxidative stress and inflammation is the key mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in diabetes. Inhibition of AGE-RAGE axis by several PPAR-γ agonists has shown positive results in ameliorating cardio-metabolic disease conditions. Chrysin, a natural flavonoid has shown to possess PPAR-γ agonist activity along with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the effect of chrysin in isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury in diabetic rats. In male albino Wistar rats, diabetes was induced by single injection of streptozotocin (70 mg/kg, i.p.). After confirmation of the diabetes, rats were treated with vehicle (1.5 mL/kg, p.o.), chrysin (60 mg/kg, p.o.) or PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) for 28 days. Simultaneously, on 27th and 28th day myocardial injury was induced by isoproterenol (85 mg/kg, s.c.). Chrysin significantly ameliorated cardiac dysfunction as reflected by improved MAP, ±LVdP/dtmax and LVEDP in diabetic rats. This improvement was associated with increased PPAR-γ expression and reduced RAGE expression in diabetic rats. Chrysin significantly decreased inflammation through inhibiting NF-κBp65/IKK-β expression and TNF-α level. Additionally, chrysin significantly reduced apoptosis as indicated by augmented Bcl-2 expression and decreased Bax and caspase-3 expressions. Furthermore, chrysin inhibited nitro-oxidative stress by normalizing the alteration in 8-OHdG, GSH, TBARS, NO and CAT levels and Nox4, MnSOD, eNOS and NT expressions. Co-administration of GW9662 significantly blunted the chrysin mediated cardioprotective effect as there was increase in oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis markers. Chrysin significantly ameliorated isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury in diabetic rats via PPAR-γ activation and inhibition of AGE-RAGE mediated oxidative stress and inflammation.

Mitigation of paracetamol-induced reproductive damage by chrysin in male rats via reducing oxidative stress

Paracetamol (PRC) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used widely as a painkiller for various diseases and as the symptomatic flu cure in several countries worldwide. PRC toxicity may occur under conditions of the overdose usage. Chrysin (CR) is a flavonoid that is naturally present in several plants, honey and propolis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CR (at the doses of 25 mg kg^-1 and 50 mg kg^-1 ) pre-treatment over seven consecutive days against PRC-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. Our results showed that PRC toxicity decreased the sperm motility, and increased dead sperm rate, abnormal sperm cell rate, apoptosis and MDA levels in testicular tissues. Pre-treatment with CR at the dose of 25 and 50 mg kg^-1 for 7 days mitigated side effects of acute PRC toxicity in male reproductive system proportionally in a dose-dependent manner. This possible protection mechanism might be dependent on the antioxidant activity of CR. In conclusion, pre-treatment with CR at the dose of 25 and 50 mg kg^-1 for 7 days can be the beneficial against PRC-induced reproductive toxicity proportionally in a dose-dependent manner.

Hepato- and neuro-protective effects of watermelon juice on acute ethanol-induced oxidative stress in rats

Chronic and acute alcohol exposure has been extensively reported to cause oxidative stress in hepatic and extra-hepatic tissues. Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is known to possess various beneficial properties including; antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcerogenic effects. However, there is a lack of pertinent information on its importance in acute alcohol-induced hepato- and neuro-toxicity. The present study evaluated the potential protective effects of watermelon juice on ethanol-induced oxidative stress in the liver and brain of male Wistar rats. Rats were pre-treated with the watermelon juice at a dose of 4 ml/kg body weight for a period of fifteen days prior to a single dose of ethanol (50%; 12 ml/kg body weight). Ethanol treatment reduced body weight gain and significantly altered antioxidant status in the liver and brain. This is evidenced by the significant elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration; depletion in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and an increased catalase (CAT) activity in the brain and liver. There was no significant difference in the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the liver and brain.

Oral administration of watermelon juice for fifteen (15) days prior to ethanol intoxication, significantly reduced the concentration of MDA in the liver and brain of rats. In addition, water melon pre-treatment increased the concentration of GSH and normalized catalase activity in both tissues in comparison to the ethanol control group. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenol, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and steroids in watermelon juice. Our findings indicate that watermelon juice demonstrate anti-oxidative effects in ethanol-induced oxidation in the liver and brain of rats; which could be associated with the plethora of antioxidant phyto-constituents present there-in.

The Potential for Plant Derivatives against Acrylamide Neurotoxicity

Certain industrial chemicals and food contaminants have been demonstrated to possess neurotoxic activity and have been suspected to cause brain-related disorders in humans. Acrylamide (ACR), a confirmed neurotoxicant, can be found in trace amount in commonly consumed human aliments as a result of food processing or cooking. This discovery aroused a great concern in the public, and increasing efforts are continuously geared towards the resolution of this serious threat. The broad chemical diversity of plants may offer the resources for novel antidotes against neurotoxicants. With the goal of attenuating neurotoxicity of ACR, several plants extracts or derivatives have been employed. This review presents the plants and their derivatives that have been shown most active against ACR-induced neurotoxicity, with a focus on their origin, pharmacological activity, and antidote effects.

Flavonoid Chrysin prevents age-related cognitive decline via attenuation of oxidative stress and modulation of BDNF levels in aged mouse brain

In this study, the effect of Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone), an important member of the flavonoid family, on memory impairment, oxidative stress and BDNF reduction generated by aging in mice were investigated. Young and aged mice were treated daily per 60days with Chrysin (1 and 10mg/kg; per oral, p.o.) or veichle (10ml/kg; p.o.). Mice were trained and tested in Morris Water Maze task. After the behavioural test, the levels of reactive species (RS), the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), as well as the activity of Na(+), K(+)-ATPase and the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were determined in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HC) of mice. Results demonstrated that the age-related memory decline was partially protected by Chrysin at a dose of 1mg/kg, and normalized at the dose of 10mg/kg (p<0.001). Treatment with Chrysin significantly attenuated the increase of RS levels and the inhibition of SOD, CAT and GPx activities of aged mice. Inhibition of Na(+), K(+)-ATPase activity in PFC and HP of aged mice was also attenuated by Chrysin treatment. Moreover, Chrysin marked mitigated the decrease of BDNF levels in the PFC and HC of aged mice. These results demonstrated that flavonoid Chrysin, an antioxidant compound, was able to prevent age-associated memory probably by their free radical scavenger action and modulation of BDNF production. Thus, this study indicates that Chrysin may represent a new pharmacological approach to alleviate the age-related declines during normal age, acting as an anti-aging agent.

Standardized extract of Vitex doniana Sweet stalls protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmention in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Vitex doniana fruits are locally used in Nigeria as a remedy in the treatment of jaundice and liver related disease. The effect of methanolic extract of Vitex doniana fruits on acetaminophen induced protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation was investigated in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antioxidant activity of the extract (0.2-1.0mg/mL) was investigated in vitro using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, superoxide ion, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical and ferric ion reducing system. Vitex doniana extract at 1.0mg/mL scavenged DPPH, superoxide ion, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radical by 86%, 78%, 80% and 72% respectively, it also reduced ferric ion significantly. Hepatoprotective effect of Vitex doniana fruits was monitored in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

RESULTS

Acetaminophen-mediated alterations in serum alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, albumin and total bilirubin levels in mice were significantly (P<0.05) attenuated by the extract. Similarly, acetaminophen-mediated decrease in activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase was significantly (P<0.05) attenuated in the liver of mice. Increased levels of conjugated dienes, lipid hydroperoxides, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl and fragmented DNA were significantly (P<0.05) lowered by methanolic extract of Vitex doniana fruits.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the results of this study show that Vitex doniana fruits possess antioxidant properties and halted acetaminophen-mediated oxidative rout on cellular proteins, lipids and DNA, made possible by β-sitosterol, platycodin D, apigenin, saikosaponin, chrysin and ellagitanin in the extract.

Inhibition of TGF-β by a novel PPAR-γ agonist, chrysin, salvages β-receptor stimulated myocardial injury in rats through MAPKs-dependent mechanism

Background

Pharmacological stimulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) has been recognized as a molecular switch in alleviating myocardial injury through modulating oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic signaling pathways. This study was designed to elucidate the effect of chrysin, a novel PPAR-γ agonist and its functional interaction with TGF-β/MAPKs in isoproterenol-challenged myocardial injury in rats.

Methods

Male Wistar Albino rats were either subjected to vehicle (1.5 mL/kg, p.o.) or chrysin (15–60 mg/kg, p.o.) for 28 days. Isoproterenol (85 mg/kg, s.c.) was administered to rats on 27^th and 28^th day to induce myocardial injury.

Results

Chrysin dose dependently improved ventricular (±LVdP/dtmax and LVEDP) and hemodynamic (SAP, MAP and DAP) dysfunction in isoproterenol-insulted rats. This beneficial effect of chrysin was well supported with increased expression of PPAR-γ and decreased expression of TGF-β as evidenced by western blotting and immunohistochemistry analysis. Moreover, downstream signaling pathway of TGF-β viz. P-ERK½/ERK½ activation and P-JNK/JNK, P-p38/p38 and MMP-2 inhibition were also observed. Chrysin also attenuated NF-κBp65 and IKK-β expressions, TNF-α level and TUNEL positivity thereby validating its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. Additionally, chrysin in a dose dependent fashion improved NO level, redox status of the myocardium (GSH and MDA levels and SOD, GSHPx and CAT activities), cardiac injury markers (CK-MB and LDH levels) and oxidative DNA damage marker (8-OHdG level) and displayed preservation of subcellular and ultrastructural components.

Conclusion

We established that activation of PPAR-γ and inhibition of TGF-β via MAPKs dependent mechanism is critical for cardioprotective effect of chrysin.

Forest biorefinery: Potential of poplar phytochemicals as value-added co-products

The global forestry industry after experiencing a market downturn during the past decade has now aimed its vision towards the integrated biorefinery. New business models and strategies are constantly being explored to re-invent the global wood and pulp/paper industry through sustainable resource exploitation. The goal is to produce diversified, innovative and revenue generating product lines using on-site bioresources (wood and tree residues). The most popular product lines are generally produced from wood fibers (biofuels, pulp/paper, biomaterials, and bio/chemicals). However, the bark and other tree residues like foliage that constitute forest wastes, still remain largely an underexploited resource from which extractives and phytochemicals can be harnessed as by-products (biopharmaceuticals, food additives and nutraceuticals, biopesticides, cosmetics). Commercially, Populus (poplar) tree species including hybrid varieties are cultivated as a fast growing bioenergy crop, but can also be utilized to produce bio-based chemicals. This review identifies and underlines the potential of natural products (phytochemicals) from Populus species that could lead to new business ventures in biorefineries and contribute to the bioeconomy. In brief, this review highlights the importance of by-products/co-products in forest industries, methods that can be employed to extract and purify poplar phytochemicals, the potential pharmaceutical and other uses of >160 phytochemicals identified from poplar species - their chemical structures, properties and bioactivities, the challenges and limitations of utilizing poplar phytochemicals, and potential commercial opportunities. Finally, the overall discussion and conclusion are made considering the recent biotechnological advances in phytochemical research to indicate the areas for future commercial applications from poplar tree species.

Hepatoprotective effects of Solanum nigrum Linn fruits against cadmium chloride toxicity in albino rats

The present work is aimed to investigate the toxicity of 1/20 LD50 of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on male albino rats by oral ingestion and to determine the hepatoprotective effect of Solanum nigrum Linn (SN) dried fruits and their ethanolic extract against CdCl2 toxicity using biochemical parameters. Rats were divided into six groups; the first group is control, second group is CdCl2-intoxicated rats, third group is fed with a semi-modified diet with S. nigrum fruits, fourth group rats ingested with dried extract, and intoxicated rats (groups 5 and 6) were treated with fruits and ethanolic extract of S. nigrum, respectively. The results showed that rats exposed to CdCl2 induced remarkable decrease in body weight gain, feed efficiency, and Hb, Hct, RBC, and WBC count and MCHC, but increase in MCV and MCH values. In the case of plasma enzymes, there were significant stimulations observed in ALT and AST, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and LDH activities of CdCl2-intoxicated rats (group 2) compared to control (group 1). Plasma protein profile showed decreases in total soluble protein and albumin; also globulin content was decreased by CdCl2 ingestion. Under the same condition, plasma total bilirubin and glucose levels were increased in group 2. In addition, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative system (GSH, catalase, and SOD) of liver were harmed by CdCl2 ingestion. Whereas, normal rats treated with SN showed insignificant changes in groups 3 and 4 as compared to control (group 1). The treatment with dried fruits and their ethanolic extract in CdCl2-intoxicated rats (groups 5 and 6) ameliorated and improved these harmful effects in all above parameters either for blood or liver. The results of this study suggest the protective effect of S. nigrum against liver injury happened by CdCl2 which may be attributed to its hepatoprotective activity and thereby.

Localization and interaction of hydroxyflavones with lipid bilayer model membranes: a study using DSC and multinuclear NMR

The localization and interaction of six naturally occurring flavones (FLV, 5HF, 6HF, 7HF, CHY and BLN) in DPPC bilayers were studied using DSC and multi-nuclear NMR. DSC results indicate that FLV and 6HF interact with alkyl chains. The (1)H NMR shows interaction of flavones with the sn-glycero region. Ring current induced chemical shifts indicate that 6HF and BLN acquire parallel orientation in bilayers. 2D NOESY spectra indicate partitioning of the B-ring into the alkyl chain region. The DSC, NMR and binding studies indicate that 5HF and 7HF are located near head group region, while 6HF, CHY and BLN are located in the vicinity of sn-glycero region, and FLV is inserted deepest in the membrane.

Physiological, biochemical and histological alterations induced by administration of imidacloprid in female albino rats

Imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid the newest class of major insecticide has outstanding potency and systemic action for crop protection against piercing and sucking insects pests and also highly effective for control of flea on cats and dogs. The effect of oral administration of two doses of imidacloprid 10 and 20mg/kg/day for 60 days on biochemical parameters, histopathology and protein profile of female albino rat was assessed. Average feed intake was significantly reduced (P<0.01) at 20mg/kg/day. Relative weight of heart and spleen decreased significantly (P<0.05) at higher dose level. Non significant increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity was observed in both the imidacloprid treated groups. There was significant decrease (P<0.01, P<0.05) in acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity in plasma and brain of both the imidacloprid treated groups. Microscopically, liver tissue of rats treated with higher dose of imidacloprid showed marked dilation and congestion of central vein and degeneration of hepatocytes. The exposure to imidacloprid produced histopathological changes that could be correlated with changes in the biochemical profile of female albino rats. The blood plasma proteins were examined by SDS PAGE. There was no diagnostic difference in the pattern of plasma protein profile of control and treated rats. Based on the present physiological, biochemical and histological studies it is evident that imidacloprid did not produce any significant effects at 10mg/kg/day dose but induced toxicological effects at 20mg/kg/day to female rats.

Beneficial effects of Chrysin against Methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity via attenuation of oxidative stress and apoptosis

Methotrexate (MTX), a folic acid antagonist, an effective chemotherapeutic agent is used in the treatment of a wide range of tumors and autoimmune diseases. Moreover, hepatotoxicity limits its clinical use. Several studies have already confirmed that the oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of MTX-induced damage in the various organs especially in liver. The aim of this study was to determine the protective effect of Chrysin against MTX-induced hepatic oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats. In the present study, efficacy of Chrysin was investigated against hepatotoxicity caused by MTX in terms of biochemical investigations of antioxidant enzymes, apoptosis, and histopathological alteration in rat liver. In the MTX-treated group there was a significant increase in alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase activity and malondialdehyde content as well as decreased glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, catalase activities and reduced glutathione content were also observed compared to the control group as a marker of oxidative stress. Histopathological alterations and apoptosis through the immunopositive staining of p53, cleaved caspases-3 and Bcl-2-associated X protein in rat liver were observed. Pretreatment of Chrysin at both doses prevents the hepatotoxicity by ameliorating oxidative stress, histopathological alterations, and apoptosis and thus our results suggest that Chrysin has a protective effect against hepatotoxicity induced by MTX and it may, therefore, improve the therapeutic index of MTX if co-administration is done.

Effects of quercetin and chrysin on 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The objective of current study is to investigate the effects of the administration of chrysin (CH) and quercetin (Q) on rat liver in which oxidative and histological damage had been induced by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Rats were randomly divided into six equal groups. TCDD was orally administered at the dose of 2 μg/kg/week, and Q and CH were orally administered at the doses of 20 mg/kg day and 50 mg/kg/day, respectively, by gavages dissolved in corn oil. The liver samples to be analyzed for the determination of oxidative and histological alternations were taken from rats at 60 days. The results indicated that although 2,3,7,8-TCDD significantly induced (P ≤ 0.01) lipid peroxidation (increase of MDA levels), it positively affected oxidant/antioxidant system (a decline in the levels of GSH, CAT, GSH-Px, and CuZn-SOD) in rats significantly. The histological changes observed in the liver correlated with the biochemical findings. However, these effects of TCDD on oxidative and histological changes were eliminated by Q and CH treatment. In conclusion, TCDD caused an adverse effect on rat's liver. When Q and CH were given together with TCDD, they prevented hepatotoxicty induced by TCDD. Thus, it is thought that Q and CH may be useful as a new category of anti-TCDD toxicity agent.