Carvacrol and pomegranate extract in treating methotrexate-induced lung oxidative injury in rats

Carvacrol protects rats against bleomycin-induced lung oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis

The main objective of this study was to investigate the potential efficacy of carvacrol (CAR) in mitigating bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Sixty-six male Wistar rats were assigned into two main groups of 7 and 21 days. They were divided into the subgroups of control, BLM, CAR 80 (only for the 21-day group), and CAR treatment groups. The CAR treatment groups received CAR (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg, orally) for 7 or 21 days after an instillation of BLM (5 mg/kg, intratracheally). Results indicated that BLM significantly increased total cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and the percentages of neutrophils and lymphocytes, and reduced the percentage of macrophages. CAR dose-dependently decreased total cell count and the percentage of neutrophils and lymphocytes. CAR significantly reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroxyproline levels and elevated the total thiol level and catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in BLM-exposed rats. Furthermore, CAR decreased the transforming growth factor-β1, connective transforming growth factor, and tumor necrosis factor-α on days 7 and 21. BLM increased interferon-γ on day 7 but decreased its level on day 21. However, CAR reversed interferon-γ levels on days 7 and 21. Based on histopathological findings, BLM induced inflammation on days 7 and 21, but for induction of fibrosis, 21-day study showed more fibrotic injuries than the 7-day group. CAR showed the improvement of fibrotic injuries. The effect of CAR against BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis is possibly due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic activity.

Silibinin Effect on Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

OBJECTIVE

Hepatotoxicity is one of the major side effects of methotrexate and limits its use. In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effect of silibinin and the role of oxidative stress markers and cytokines on high-dose methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=7). Methotrexate (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was administered on the first day in all groups except control. Silibinin was injected for 5 days to methotrexate-silibinin25, methotrexate-silibinin50, and methotrexate-silibinin100 groups at a dose of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day, respectively. On the sixth day, blood and liver samples were obtained and rats were sacrificed. Serum total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, total thiol, native thiol, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, bilirubin, albumin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-10 levels were measured. In addition, a histopathological evaluation of liver tissues was performed.

RESULTS

Methotrexate reduced total antioxidant capacity and increased disulfide/total thiol ratio. Histopathologic examination revealed that methotrexate increased hepatic damage and 50 mg/kg/dose of silibinin prevented inflammatory cell infiltration in particular.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that silibinin (50 mg/kg/day) may reduce the hepatic damage in methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by increasing antioxidant capacity.

Stachys pilifera Benth. Ameliorates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats through the Antioxidant Pathways

Methods

In this experimental study, 35 male Wistar rats (120-180 g) were divided into five groups (n = 7) as follows: intratracheal instillation of bleomycin (BLM, 7.5 IU/kg) was administered to group II. The third and fourth groups received BLM plus Stachys pilifera hydroalcoholic extract (SPHE) (300 mg/kg/day, gavage). Vitamin E (500 mg/kg/day, gavage) was given to group V in addition to BLM. After 14 days, the animals were euthanized to assess biochemical parameters and lung histopathology. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), total thiol (TSH), and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. In addition, hydroxyproline (HYP) levels along with histological changes in lung tissue were also assessed.

Results

MDA, NO, and HYP elevations induced by BLM toxicity were significantly inhibited by SPHE (300 and 600 mg/kg), and Vit E. SPHE also significantly increased GSH and TSH levels in comparison to the BLM group.HPLC analyses showed the presence of thymol (55.47 ng/mL) and carvacrol (109.91 ng/mL) in SPHE as potential bioactive phenolic compounds.

Conclusion

The results suggest that SPHE alleviates the development of BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting the proliferation of fibroblasts mediated by antioxidant pathways. Other mechanisms underlying this Effect of SPHE need to be clarified through further research.

Experimental and clinical evidence on the effect of carvacrol on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders: A comprehensive review

Carvacrol (CAR) showed various pharmacological and therapeutic effects in different disorders. In the current article, the experimental and clinical effects of CAR on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders are described. Various databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus, were searched regarding the effects of CAR on respiratory and allergic disorders until the end of October 2021. CAR showed the relaxant effect, with various possible mechanisms suggesting the bronchodilatory effect in obstructive pulmonary diseases. The preventive effects of CAR on experimental animal models of respiratory diseases were shown through mechanisms such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory. CAR also showed therapeutic potential on lung cancer, lung infections, and allergic and immunologic disorders. Clinical studies also revealed therapeutic effects of CAR on asthma, sulfur-mustard-induced lug disorders, and some other allergic and immunologic diseases. Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of CAR indicate possible remedy effects of this agent in the treatment of respiratory, allergic, and immunologic diseases.

Polydatin combats methotrexate-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats: Involvement of biochemical and histopathological assessment

Polydatin (PD) is a polyphenolic compound found naturally in many fruits such as grapes. It has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that are of paramount importance for its pharmacological actions. This study aimed to explore possible protective effects of PD against methotrexate (MTX)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. A single oral dose of MTX (14 mg/kg) per week for 2 weeks caused a significant decrease in glutathione (GSH) content with a marked increase in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), pulmonary content of malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Hydroxyproline, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as compared with the control group. Contrarily, daily administration of PD (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days concomitantly with MTX ameliorated MTX-induced pulmonary fibrosis as indicated by mitigation of the previously mentioned biochemical parameters and histopathological changes in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, the protective effect of PD against pulmonary fibrosis induced by MTX in rats might be attributed to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as anti-fibrotic effects.

The modulatory effect of carvacrol on viral shedding titer and acute phase response in broiler chickens experimentally infected with infectious bronchitis virus

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is one of the major respiratory diseases of broiler causing huge economic losses. The inability to control IBV using different vaccination programs owing to the high mutation rate and recombination ability of the RNA genome generates IBV variants. This study was designed to give a specific perspective of carvacrol effect on early immune response, viral shedding titer, oxidative stress, serum biochemical parameters and clinical consequences in broilers experimentally infected by IBV. One hundred and twenty-one-day old commercial broiler chicks were equally divided into 4 groups. First group was considered as control. Second group was given carvacrol, third group was infected with IBV and fourth group was given carvacrol and infected with IBV. Infection with variant IBV induced significant upregulation of chicken interferon-inducible transmembrane protein 3 (chIFITM3) gene in trachea, elevations in serum levels of Alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (α1-AGP) and Interleukin 6 (IL-6), total leucocytic count (TLC), heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio and oxidative stress in lung and kidney tissues. Beside, histopathological changes in trachea, lung and kidney induced by IBV, elevation of kidney function tests was detected. The pretreatment with carvacrol significantly reduced viral shedding titer, chIFITM3 gene expression, IL-6 and α1-AGP levels, leucocytic response and H/L ratio with minimization of clinical signs intensity. Also, carvacrol relieved oxidative stress, ameliorated the increased uric acid level and histopathological alterations in kidney and lung caused by viral infection.

OUP accepted manuscript

Acute lung injury has been reported following various chemotherapeutic agents administration. Several pathways for lung injury have been speculated however, the exact mechanism of the lung injury induced by methotrexate (MTX) is yet to be defined. The potential protective effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GB), a Chinese herbal medicine, against MTX-induced lung injury is still not reported. Therefore, this study was performed to examine the possible implication of NLRP3 inflammasome and miRNA-21 in the pathogenesis of the MTX-induced lung injury as well as the protective role of GB in ameliorating the induced lung injury. Rats received GB (100 mg/kg/day, orally) for 10 days and MTX (20 mg/kg single dose, intraperitoneally) on the fifth day. MTX-induced lung injury was manifested by lung histopathology. MTX exhibited a marked increase in lung malondialdehyde beside a notable decrease in lung reduced glutathione. Moreover, MTX injection activated the lung NLRP3 inflammasome by significant upregulation of the NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 lung mRNA expressions and protein levels in addition to lung NF-kBp65 protein expression, and miRNA-21 expression when compared with the normal control group. However, GB administration mitigated lung injury and inhibited the NLRP3 activation. This study is the first report to reveal the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathogenesis of MTX-induced lung injury and also to show that the administration of GB alleviates the lung injury induced by MTX via suppressing the oxidative stress, restoring the antioxidant activity, blocking the NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1 signaling and downregulating the NF-kBp65 protein expression ae well as miRNA-21 expression in lung tissue.

Evaluation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative DNA damage and metalloproteinases in the lungs of rats treated with cadmium and carvacrol

BACKGROUND

The potential protective properties of carvacrol (CRV), which possesses various biological and pharmacological properties, against lung toxicity caused by cadmium (Cd), a major environmental pollutant, were investigated in the present study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the study, rats were given 25 or 50 mg/kg CRV orally 30 min after administrating 25 mg/kg cadmium chloride for seven days. Subsequently, the levels of 8-OHdG, MMP-2, and MMP-9, as well as markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, were analyzed in the lung tissue of the animals. The results revealed that CRV exhibited antioxidant characteristics and raised SOD, CAT, GPx, and CAT levels and decreased the MDA levels induced by Cd. It also suppressed proinflammatory cytokines by lowering the levels of CRV NF-κB and p38 MAPK, thus exerting an anti-inflammatory effect against Cd. It was found that the levels of Bax, Caspase-3, and cytochrome c increased by Cd were decreased by the application of CRV. CRV also showed an anti-apoptotic effect by increasing Bcl-2 levels. The levels of 8-OHdG, MMP2, and MMP9, which increased with Cd administration, were observed to reduce after treatment with CRV.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that CRV has protective properties against Cd-induced lung toxicity.

Would carvacrol be a supporting treatment option effective in minimizing the deleterious effects of COVID-19?

The pathophysiological process of the disease, Covid-19, is mediated by innate immunity, with the presence of macrophages responsible for secreting type 1 and 6 interleukins (IL), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) leading to dilation of endothelial cells with a consequent increase in capillary permeability. The treatment of this disease has been much discussed, but the variability in the clinical picture, the difficulties for diagnosis and treatment, especially of those patients who have the most severe clinical condition of the disease. Immunization is an effective tool for controlling the spread and overload of health services, but its effectiveness involves high investments in the acquisition of inputs, development of vaccines, and logistics of storage and distribution. These factors can be obstacles for countries with lower economic, technological, and infrastructure indexes. Reflecting on these difficulties, we raised the possibility of adjuvant therapies with imminent research feasibility, as is the case with the use of carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol whose has biological properties that serve as a barrier to processes mediated by free radicals, such as irritation and inflammation, due to its antioxidant action. Many authors highlighted the activity of carvacrol as a potent suppressor of COX-2 expression minimizing the acute inflammatory process, decreasing the release of some pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β, TNF-α, PGE2. Anyway, the benefits of carvacrol are numerous and the therapeutic possibilities too. With this description, the question arises: would carvacrol be a supporting treatment option, effective in minimizing the deleterious effects of Covid-19? There is still a lot to discover and research.

Protective effect of Coenzyme Q10 on oxidative ovarian and uterine damage induced by methotrexate in rats

Methotrexate (MTX) has toxic effects on the uterus and ovaries via oxidative stress. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an important component in electron transport in the mitochondria and an antioxidant in cellular metabolism through the inhibition of lipid peroxidation. The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of CoQ10 on MTX-induced utero-ovarian damage and oxidative stress in rats.In this experimental study, 30 albino Wistar female rats were divided randomly into three groups. Once a day for a month, 10 mg/kg of CoQ10 was orally administered to the rats in the MTX+CoQ10 group, while the same volume of olive oil was administered orally to the other two groups. One hour thereafter, 20 mg/kg of MTX was injected intraperitoneally into the rats in the MTX and MTX+CoQ10 groups; the remaining group was the control. At the end of the month, biochemical and histopathologic examinations were performed on the extracted uteri and ovaries. In the uterine ovarian tissues of the animals in the MTX group, there was an increase in oxidative stress mediators and a decrease in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mediators, but these trends were reversed in the MTX+CoQ10 group, demonstrating the antioxidant effects of CoQ10. MTX leads to oxidative stress-related ovarian and uterine injury, and CoQ10 may be useful for protecting ovarian and uterine tissue from such injury.

Antioxidant-rich fraction of Amomum subulatum fruits mitigates experimental methotrexate-induced oxidative stress by regulating TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 proinflammatory cytokines

The culinary spice Amomum subulatum was assessed for its phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant potential, and in vivo ameliorating effect against methotrexate (MTX)-induced toxicities. Phytochemical analysis of methanolic extract of A. subulatum dry fruits (MEAS) confirmed the presence of different bioactive secondary metabolites. MEAS scavenged reactive free radicals and inhibited lipid peroxidation in vitro. To confirm the antioxidant efficiency of MEAS, in vivo experiment was carried out in which MTX was administered to induce oxidative stress. Co-administration of MEAS reduced MTX-induced hepatic, renal, and pulmonary toxicities via significantly (p < .01) enhancing antioxidant status and reducing oxidative stress. MTX treatment significantly (p < .01) increased liver and kidney toxicity markers and increased proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) levels. However, co-administration of MEAS significantly (p < .01) reduced their levels, and tissue histopathology confirmed the protective effect of MEAS in maintaining normal tissue architecture following MTX treatment. Protective effect of MEAS is accredited to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by bioactive compounds in MEAS. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Amomum subulatum (Black cardamom) is a folkloric and culinary spice used for its organoleptic, nutritional, and medicinal properties. This study demonstrated the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of methanolic extract of A. subulatum dry fruits (MEAS). Toxicities associated with MTX therapy limit its clinical application. MEAS attenuated methotrexate-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and associated organ damages, suggesting the possible therapeutic application of A. subulatum in reducing oxidative stress and associated diseases. Our results showed that A. subulatum is a potential functional food, which may be used for the betterment of health due to its richness in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals.

Investigating the effects of carvacrol in rats using oxygen-induced retinopathy model

Purpose:

Investigating the effects of intraperitoneal carvacrol administration in rats using the oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model.

Methods:

A total of 28 newborn Sprague Dawley rats were used and the OIR model was created using the 50/10% oxygen model. The study composed of four groups in total. While the OIR model was not used in Group I (control group), it was created for Groups II, III, and IV. About 0.01 mL carvacrol, bevacizumab, or 0.9% NaCl was administered intraperitoneal (IP) to the rats in all groups on postnatal day (PND) 14 as follows: Group I and Group II were administered 0.9% NaCl, Group III was administered bevacizumab, and Group IV was administered carvacrol. On PND 18, rats were sacrificed and their right eyes were enucleated.

Results:

Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies showed that the number of vascular endothelial cells (VECs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) decreased similarly in Group III and Group IV compared with Group II. VECs values for Group I, Group II, Group III, and Group IV were measured as 0 ± 0, 26.45 ± 4.57, 7.75 ± 1.98, and 5.78 ± 1.72, respectively, and it differed significantly between groups (P < 0.001). Likewise, VEGF levels were observed as 0.06 ± 0.01, 3.31 ± 0.53, 2.47 ± 0.44, and 2.49 ± 0.52, respectively, and it differed significantly between groups (P < 0.001). TNF-α levels were recorded as 0.06 ± 0.01, 3.58 ± 0.38, 2.46 ± 0.49, and 2.29 ± 0.25, respectively, and it differed significantly between groups (P < 0.001). VECs, VEGF, and TNF-α were similar between Group III and IV (range of P values were 0.486–0.998).

Conclusion:

The study demonstrated that carvacrol significantly reduced retinal pathological angiogenesis, NV, VEC nuclei count, VEGF, and TNF-α levels. Moreover, the observed effects were comparable to those of bevacizumab.

Therapeutic properties of Punica granatum L (pomegranate) and its applications in lung-based diseases: A detailed review

Respiratory diseases are the prime cause of death and disability worldwide. The majority of lung-based diseases are resistant to treatment. Hence, research on unique drugs/compounds with a more efficient and minimum side effect for treating lung diseases is urgent. Punica granatum L (pomegranate) fruit has been used in the prevention and treatment of various respiratory disorders in recent times. In vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that pomegranate fruit, as well as its juice, extract, peel powder, and oil, exert anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-tumorigenic properties by attenuating various respiratory conditions such as asthma, lung fibrosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and alveolar inflammation via modulating various signaling pathways. The current review summarizes the potential properties and medical benefits of pomegranate against different lung-based diseases, also highlighting its possible role in the lung fibrinolytic system. The available data suggest that pomegranate is effective in controlling the disease progressions and could be a potential therapeutic target benefiting human health status. Furthermore, this review also outlines the preclinical and clinical studies highlighting the role of pomegranate in lung diseases further evoking future studies to investigate the effect of intake of this anti-oxidant fruit in larger and well-defined human clinical trials. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This review outlines the putative pharmacologic benefits of P. granatum L (pomegranate) in treating various chronic lung-based diseases such as lung cancer, COPD, ARDS, asthma, lung fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis. This review also highlights the possible inhibitory role of P. granatum L (pomegranate) in the lung fibrinolytic system triggering the fibrinolytic markers. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical studies using in vitro, in vivo, and human models highlighting the potential role of P. granatum L (pomegranate) in lung diseases. This review evokes future research to investigate the effect of intake of pomegranate fruit in well-defined human clinical trials.

Methotrexate-induced toxic effects and the ameliorating effects of astaxanthin on genitourinary tissues in a female rat model

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to explore the possible deleterious effects of Methotrexate (MTX) treatment on the urogenital tissues and the potential protective effects of Astaxanthin (AXA).

METHODS

Twenty-four female Wistar Albino rats (12 months old) were divided into 3 groups as follows: Group I (Control group): rats received a single dose of 0.1 ml saline by gavage and intraperitoneal injection. Group II (MTX group): rats received a single dose of 20 mg/kg MTX, i.p, on the 2nd day. Group III (MTX + AXA group): rats received 100 mg/kg AXA orally for 7 days in addition to a single dose of MTX. The levels of total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and histopathological and immunohistochemical markers (Caspase-3, iNOS, CRP, G-CSF) were evaluated in urogenital tissues.

RESULTS

In ovarian tissues, a statistically significant increase in TOS levels (p = 0.001) and OSI index (p = 0.028) were observed in Group II compared to Group I. TAS level was significantly higher in Group III compared to Group II and I (p = 0.009 and 0.002, respectively). However, a significant decrease in OSI level was observed in Group III compared to Group II (p = 0.035). In fallopian tube tissues, TAS level was significantly decreased in Group II compared to Group I (p = 0.047). Histopathologically, marked hyperemia was observed in MTX group. AXA treatment ameliorated all the pathological findings. Immunohistochemically, all the studied markers were considerably increased in Group II, however, they were decreased by AXA.

CONCLUSION

These findings revealed that MTX treatment caused oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in the urogenital tissue. We found that AXA significantly ameliorated the damage caused by MTX in the urogenital tissue. The results of the study have indicated that AXA may be a promising nutritional support substance against the damage caused by chemotherapeutic and cytotoxic agents, such as MTX, to the urogenital tissue.

Carvacrol Promotes Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis through PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of carvacrol in modulating PI3K/AKT signaling involved in human breast cancer pathogenesis using in vitro experimental model MCF-7 cells.

METHODS

MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays were performed with cells treated with different doses of carvacrol (0-250 p mol/L) at different time points (24 and 48 h). The nuclear morphology was assessed in MCF-7 cells with propidium iodide (PI) and acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining and analyzed by fluorescence microscopy. Events like cell cycle arrest, apoptosis was observed by flow cytometric analysis and expressions of p-Rb, cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), CDK6, Bax, Bcl-2, PI3K/p-AKT was analyzed by immunoblot.

RESULTS

Carvacrol significantly reduced cell viability with the half maximal inhibitory concentration value of 200 µmol/L at 24 and 48 h (P<0.05). importantly, there was a significant increase in the accumulation of the G₀/G₁ phase upon treatment with carvacrol in MCF-7 cells (P<0.05 or P<0.01). A remarkable decrease in protein expressions of p-Rb, cyclin D1, CDK4 and CDK6 denotes cell cycle arrest (P<0.05 or P<0.01). In addition, carvacrol treatment significantly inhibited PI3K/p-AKT protein expressions leading to induction of apoptosis mediated by decreased Bcl2 and increased Bax protein expressions. Further, Annexin V/PI staining by FACS analysis, dual staining by AO/EB and PI staining studies suggests induction of apoptosis by carvacrol through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in MCF-7 cells.

CONCLUSION

Carvacrol significantly inhibited the breast cancer MCF-7 cell proliferation and induced apoptosis via suppressing PI3/AKT signaling pathway.

The Applications of Origanum Vulgare and Its Derivatives in Human, Ruminant and Fish Nutrition – A Review

Origanum vulgare L. is an aromatic enduring herb that belongs to Lamiaceae family. The bioactive constituents of this herb, such as carvacrol and thymol possess several medicinal properties, such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiparasitic, anti-neoplastic, and immune modulatory. Moreover, it is considered a standard natural, less toxic, and residue free feed additive, that is successfully used in livestock and fish. Additionally, in human, Origanum vulgare is extensively used with promising health benefits against respiratory, digestive and urinary disorders. This review casts light on description, chemical composition and structure of Origanum vulgare, as well as its therapeutic applications in human and its biological activities in ruminants and fish, data that will be possibly useful for physiologists, nutritionists and veterinarians.

Effect of lutein on methotrexate-induced oxidative lung damage in rats: a biochemical and histopathological assessment

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the effect of lutein on methotrexate (MTX)-induced pulmonary toxicity in rats biochemically and histopathologically.

METHODS

The rats in the MTX + lutein (MTXL, n = 6) group were given 1 mg/kg of lutein orally. A 0.9% NaCl solution was administered orally to the MTX (n = 6) group and the healthy group (HG, n = 6). One hour later, a single 20 mg/kg dose of MTX was injected intraperitoneally in the MTXL and MTX. Lutein or 0.9% NaCl solution was administered once a day for 5 days. At the end of this period, malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), total glutathione (tGSH), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured in the lung tissues from the animals euthanized with 50 mg/kg thiopental sodium anesthesia. Subsequently, histopathological examinations were performed.

RESULTS

The levels of MDA, MPO, IL-1β, and TNF-α in the lung tissue of the MTX were significantly higher than those of the MTXL and HG groups (p < 0.0001), and the amount of tGSH was lower. The histopathological findings in the MTX group, in which the oxidants and cytokines were higher, were more severe.

CONCLUSION

Lutein prevented the MTX-induced oxidative lung damage biochemically and histopathologically. This result indicates that lutein may be useful in the treatment of MTX-induced lung damage.

Protective effects of SOD2 overexpression in human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on lung injury induced by acute paraquat poisoning in rats

AIMS

To study the protective effects and mechanisms of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) and overexpression of antioxidant gene SOD2 on lung injury by establishing a rat model of paraquat (PQ)-induced lung injury.

MAIN METHODS

The hUCMSCs cell line overexpressed SOD2 was established. After intraperitoneal injection of PQ solution (24 mg/kg) 3 h later, the different groups of hUCMSCs cell lines were injected through the tail veins of rats. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was obtained to determine the protein level of inflammatory cytokines. Lung tissues were collected to test the wet/dry weight ratios (W/D), oxidative stress index and lung injury scores. Western blotting was used to detect SOD1, SOD2, HO-1, Nrf2, NF-κBp65 subunit, and cleaved caspase-3.

KEY FINDINGS

After treatment with cells built on the basis of hUCMSCs, the protein levels of TNF-α, IL-8, and ICAM-1 in BALF decreased, and meanwhile in lung tissues, MDA content was reduced, GSH-Px activity was elevated, and lung W/D ratio decreased. Additionally, protein expression of NF-κB p65 subunit and activated caspase-3 in lung tissues was down-regulated, whereas expression of SOD1, SOD2, HO-1, and Nrf-2 were up-regulated. The results of HE staining showed that lung injury was significantly alleviated in the hUCMSC treated group. It is noticeable that hUCMSCs and SOD2-overexpressed hUCMSCs effectively reduced PQ-induced lung injury in rats, and moreover, hUCMSCs overexpressed SOD2 were more effective compared with hUCMSCs only.

SIGNIFICANCE

Evaluation of the efficacy and analysis of mechanism in the treatment of PQ induced ALI by appliance of SOD2-overexpressed hUCMSCs will provide the proof from bench to bedside.

Effect of Pomegranate Juice on Intestinal Recovery Following Methotrexate-Induced Intestinal Damage in a Rat Model

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Several studies have demonstrated the antimicrobial, antihelminthic, and antioxidant potential of the active ingredients of pomegranate (PMG) extracts, suggesting their preventive and curative role in several gastrointestinal disorders. In the present study, the authors evaluated the effects of oral PMG supplementation on intestinal structural changes, enterocyte proliferation, and apoptosis during methotrexate (MTX)-induced intestinal damage in a rat.

METHODS

Male rats were divided into 4 experimental groups: control rats; CONTR-PMG rats were treated with oral PMG given by gavage once a day 72 hours before and 72 hours following vehicle injection; MTX rats were treated with single dose of methotrexate; and MTX-PMG rats were treated with oral PMG following injection of MTX. Intestinal mucosal damage, mucosal structural changes, enterocyte proliferation, and enterocyte apoptosis were determined 72 hours following MTX injection. Western blotting was used to determine phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) and caspase 3 protein levels.

RESULTS

MTX-PMG rats demonstrated greater jejunal and ileal bowel and mucosal weights, greater jejunal and ileal mucosal DNA and protein levels, greater villus height in jejunum and ileum and crypt depth in ileum, compared with MTX animals. A significant decrease in enterocyte apoptosis in ileum of MTX-PMG rats (vs MTX) was associated with a decrease in caspase 3 protein expression as well as increased cell proliferation, which was correlated with elevated p-ERK protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with oral PMG prevents mucosal injury and improves intestinal recovery following MTX injury in the rat.

The impact of gallic acid on the methotrexate-induced kidney damage in rats

Prolonged use of an antineoplastic agent methotrexate (MTX), can cause numerous side effects such as nephrotoxicity. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of MTX on kidneys and demonstrate the protective effects of gallic acid (GA). Twenty-four, male, rats distributed into three groups. Each groups consisted eight rats and only saline was administered to the control group. The MTX group received a single dose (20 mg/kg) MTX intraperitoneally. The MTX + GA group received same dose MTX and 100 mg/kg GA orally during the 7 days. Renal functions, oxidative stress markers, histopathological and immunohistochemical changes were evaluated at the end of the experiment. Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid levels and tissue oxidative stress markers, total oxidant status and oxidative stress index levels significantly increased and total antioxidant status levels significantly decreased in MTX group compared with the control group. At the histopathological examination hemorrhages, tubular cell necrosis, glomerulosclerosis, inflammatory cell infiltrations and proteinous materials in tubules were noticed in MTX group. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that increased expressions of serum amyloid A (SAA), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE-2) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in tubular epithelial cells of kidneys in this group. There were no immunoreaction with SAA and CRP, only small number of PGE-2 and TNF-α positive tubular epithelial cells were observed in MTX + GA group. In conclusion, all evidence suggested that oxidative stress caused MTX-induced nephrotoxicity and GA prevent the kidney from the nephrotoxicity due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid in methotrexate-induced ovarian oxidative injury and decreased ovarian reserve in rats

To determine whether the possible oxidative effect of methotrexate (Mtx) on ovary and to evaluate the effectiveness of alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which may be useful in many oxidative stress models. Thirty-two female Wistar-albino rats were randomly divided into four groups; control group, alpha lipoic acid group (ALA 100 mg/kg, 10 days), multiple dose Mtx group (Mtx 1 mg/kg 1, 3, 5, 7 days) and Mtx and ALA group (Mtx 1 mg/kg 1, 3, 5, 7 days and ALA 100 mg/kg, 10 days). Serum total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and total ovarian follicle count were evaluated. Mtx administration caused a significant decrease in TAS, a significant increase in TOS and OSI, a significant increase in MDA levels and a decrease in GSH-Px and CAT activity. Moreover the proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) was increased in the Mtx group. And AMH values and total follicle count were significantly decreased in Mtx group. However, ALA treatment reversed biochemical results and AMH levels and total follicle count. Alpha lipoic acid ameliorates methotrexate induced oxidative damage of ovarian in rats.

Pomegranate for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer: An Update

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, and those who survive cancer may experience lasting difficulties, including treatment side effects, as well as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial struggles. Naturally-occurring agents from dietary fruits and vegetables have received considerable attention for the prevention and treatment of cancers. These natural agents are safe and cost efficient in contrast to expensive chemotherapeutic agents, which may induce significant side effects. The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit has been used for the prevention and treatment of a multitude of diseases and ailments for centuries in ancient cultures. Pomegranate exhibits strong antioxidant activity and is a rich source of anthocyanins, ellagitannins, and hydrolysable tannins. Studies have shown that the pomegranate fruit as well as its juice, extract, and oil exert anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-tumorigenic properties by modulating multiple signaling pathways, which suggest its use as a promising chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agent. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies highlighting the role of pomegranate in prevention and treatment of skin, breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancers.

The impact of methotrexate on lung inflammatory and apoptotic pathway biomarkers-The role of gallic acid

BACKGROUNDS

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of methotrexate (MTX) on the lung via inflammatory and apoptotic pathway biomarkers and the role of gallic acid (GA).

METHODS

In this study, twenty four male Wistar-Albino rats weighing 300-350g were divided into 3 groups as follows; Control group (0.1ml/oral saline, for 7 days+2nd day i.p.). MTX group (20mg/kg, single dose, on 2nd day). MTX+GA group (15mg/kg, orally, for 7 days). Comet analysis, oxidant-antioxidant status, IMA were conducted. Histopathological analyses were evaluated.

RESULTS

Comet assay on the blood, TOS and OSI values in the lung were increased in the group II compared with the control group (p<0.05). GA significantly reduced the comet score and IMA levels in the blood, TOS and OSI values in the lung tissue in group III compared with group II (p<0.05). Immunohistochemically PGE₂, TNF-α, CRP, serum SAA, Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 expressions significantly increased in group II compared with the control group (p<0.001) and GA treatment ameliorated these parameters significantly in group III compared with group II (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

MTX caused oxidative stress and DNA damage in the blood tissue and caused oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in the lung tissue.

Protective Effects of Infliximab on Lung Injury Induced by Methotrexate

INTRODUCTION

Methotrexate (MTX) is used to treat cancers, several forms of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions, although MTX may cause pulmonary toxicity related to the production of free oxygen radicals, various cytokines. Infliximab (IB) with its potent effect on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibition also inhibits the release of endothelin-1 (ET-1). We aimed to investigate whether IB reduces pulmonary damage induced by an overdose of MTX.

METHOD

The rats were divided into 3 groups of 8 animals. The control group was given only saline. One dose of 20mg/kg MTX intraperitoneal was administered in the MTX group. IB 7 mg/kg was given to the MTX+IB (MI) group. Three days after IB was administered, 20mg/kg MTX was given. Five days after MTX was administered, all rats were sacrificed.

RESULTS

The TNF-α, ET-1, malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and caspase-3 levels in MTX group were significantly higher than in control groups of TNF-α (P=.001), ET-1 (P=.001), MDA (P=.001), MPO (P=.001) and caspase-3 levels (P=.001) and MI groups of TNF-α (P=.009), ET-1 (P=.001), MDA (P=.047), MPO (P=.007) and caspase-3 levels (P=.003). The MI group had less histopathological damage in lung tissue than the MTX group.

CONCLUSION

Overdose of MTX leads to cytokine release and the formation of reactive oxygen species in addition to increased ET-1 secretion release that causes lung damage. IB, as a potent proinflammatory agent, TNF-α blocker, can decrease ET-1 release and oxidative stress, it may show significant protective effects in lung tissue against damage caused by MTX overdose.

Protective Effects of Infliximab on Lung Injury Induced by Methotrexate

INTRODUCTION

Methotrexate (MTX) is used to treat cancers, several forms of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions, although MTX may cause pulmonary toxicity related to the production of free oxygen radicals, various cytokines. Infliximab (IB) with its potent effect on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibition also inhibits the release of endothelin-1 (ET-1). We aimed to investigate whether IB reduces pulmonary damage induced by an overdose of MTX.

METHOD

The rats were divided into 3 groups of 8 animals. The control group was given only saline. One dose of 20mg/kg MTX intraperitoneal was administered in the MTX group. IB 7 mg/kg was given to the MTX+IB (MI) group. Three days after IB was administered, 20mg/kg MTX was given. Five days after MTX was administered, all rats were sacrificed.

RESULTS

The TNF-α, ET-1, malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and caspase-3 levels in MTX group were significantly higher than in control groups of TNF-α (P=.001), ET-1 (P=.001), MDA (P=.001), MPO (P=.001) and caspase-3 levels (P=.001) and MI groups of TNF-α (P=.009), ET-1 (P=.001), MDA (P=.047), MPO (P=.007) and caspase-3 levels (P=.003). The MI group had less histopathological damage in lung tissue than the MTX group.

CONCLUSION

Overdose of MTX leads to cytokine release and the formation of reactive oxygen species in addition to increased ET-1 secretion release that causes lung damage. IB, as a potent proinflammatory agent, TNF-α blocker, can decrease ET-1 release and oxidative stress, it may show significant protective effects in lung tissue against damage caused by MTX overdose.

Protective effects of carvacrol and pomegranate against methotrexate-induced intestinal damage in rats

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the efficacy of carvacrol (CVR) and pomegranate (PMG) against methotrexate (MTX)-induced intestinal damage using histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques.

METHODS

Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 195-250 g, were divided into four groups: control, MTX treatment alone, MTX plus CVR and MTX plus PMG. A single dose of CVR (73 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to group III on the first day of the experiment, PMG (225 mg/kg/day) was administered orogastrically (with a gavage needle) once daily for 7 days and a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally on the second day of the experiment. Intestinal tissues were obtained on 8(th) day, and examined for villus damage, crypt damage, and inflammation. Ki-67 and Caspase 3 staining was used for immunohistochemical evaluation.

RESULTS

MTX treatment induced villus shortening and fusion, epithelial atrophy, crypt loss, inflammatory infiltrate in the lamina propria, and goblet cell depletion. The CVR and PMG decreased the severity of intestinal damage caused by MTX treatment. In the MTX-received group, significant inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the lamina propria. Compared to the MTX-received group, the PMG and CVR groups showed less villus and crypt damage and less inflammation in the lamina propria. Fewer Ki-67 positive cells were observed in the crypts of the MTX-received groups compared to the control group. There were more Ki-67 positive cells in the CVR and PMG groups compared to MTX group. The MTX-received group exhibited more caspase-3 positive cells than the control group, and the number of caspase-3 positive cells were decreased in the CVR and PMG treated groups.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to show that PMG and CVR decrease MTX-related damage and apoptotic activity in intestinal tissue.