Multimechanistic antifibrotic effect of biochanin a in rats: implications of proinflammatory and profibrogenic mediators

A novel bioinformatics strategy to uncover the active ingredients and molecular mechanisms of Bai Shao in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Introduction: As a new discipline, network pharmacology has been widely used to disclose the material basis and mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine in recent years. However, numerous researches indicated that the material basis of TCMs identified based on network pharmacology was the mixtures of beneficial and harmful substances rather than the real material basis. In this work, taking the anti-NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) effect of Bai Shao (BS) as a case, we attempted to propose a novel bioinformatics strategy to uncover the material basis and mechanism of TCMs in a precise manner. Methods: In our previous studies, we have done a lot work to explore TCM-induced hepatoprotection. Here, by integrating our previous studies, we developed a novel computational pharmacology method to identify hepatoprotective ingredients from TCMs. Then the developed method was used to discover the material basis and mechanism of Bai Shao against Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by combining with the techniques of molecular network, microarray data analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, literature verification method was utilized to validate the findings. Results: A total of 12 ingredients were found to be associated with the anti-NAFLD effect of BS, including monoterpene glucosides, flavonoids, triterpenes, and phenolic acids. Further analysis found that IL1-β, IL6, and JUN would be the key targets. Interestingly, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis showed that there indeed existed strong and stable binding affinity between the active ingredients and the key targets. In addition, a total of 23 NAFLD-related KEGG pathways were enriched. The major biological processes involved by these pathways including inflammation, apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism. Of note, there was a great deal of evidence available in the literature to support the findings mentioned above, indicating that our method was reliable. Discussion: In summary, the contributions of this work can be summarized as two aspects as follows. Firstly, we systematically elucidated the material basis and mechanism of BS against NAFLD from multiple perspectives. These findings further enhanced the theoretical foundation of BS on NAFLD. Secondly, a novel computational pharmacology research strategy was proposed, which would assist network pharmacology to uncover the scientific connotation TCMs in a more precise manner.

Mechanisms Behind the Pharmacological Application of Biochanin-A: A review

This review was aimed at summarizing the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the various pharmacological actions of biochanin-A. Many studies have been reported claiming its application in cancers, metabolic disorders, airway hyperresponsiveness, cardiac disorders, neurological disorders, etc. With regard to hormone-dependent cancers like breast, prostate, and other malignancies like pancreatic, colon, lung, osteosarcoma, glioma that has limited treatment options, biochanin-A revealed agreeable results in arresting cancer development. Biochanin-A has also shown therapeutic benefits when administered for neurological disorders, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, and other chronic diseases/disorders. Isoflavones are considered phenomenal due to their high efficiency in modifying the physiological functions of the human body. Biochanin-A is one among the prominent isoflavones found in soy (glycine max), red clover (Trifolium pratense), and alfalfa sprouts, etc., with proven potency in modulating vital cellular mechanisms in various diseases. It has been popular for ages among menopausal women in controlling symptoms. In view of the multi-targeted functions of biochanin-A, it is essential to summarize it's mechanism of action in various disorders. The safety and efficacy of biochanin-A needs to be established in clinical trials involving human subjects. Biochanin-A might be able to modify various systems of the human body like the cardiovascular system, CNS, respiratory system, etc. It has shown a remarkable effect on hormonal cancers and other cancers. Many types of research on biochanin-A, particularly in breast, lung, colon, prostate, and pancreatic cancers, have shown a positive impact. Through modulating oxidative stress, SIRT-1 expression, PPAR gamma receptors, and other multiple mechanisms biochanin-A produces anti-diabetic action. The diverse molecular mechanistic pathways involved in the pharmacological ability of biochanin-A indicate that it is a very promising molecule and can play a major impact in modifying several physiological functions.

Muscle hypertrophy and neuroplasticity in the small bowel in short bowel syndrome

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a severe, life-threatening condition and one of the leading causes of intestinal failure in children. Here we were interested in changes in muscle layers and especially in the myenteric plexus of the enteric nervous system (ENS) of the small bowel in the context of intestinal adaptation. Twelve rats underwent a massive resection of the small intestine to induce SBS. Sham laparotomy without small bowel transection was performed in 10 rats. Two weeks after surgery, the remaining jejunum and ileum were harvested and studied. Samples of human small bowel were obtained from patients who underwent resection of small bowel segments due to a medical indication. Morphological changes in the muscle layers and the expression of nestin, a marker for neuronal plasticity, were studied. Following SBS, muscle tissue increases significantly in both parts of the small bowel, i.e., jejunum and ileum. The leading pathophysiological mechanism of these changes is hypertrophy. Additionally, we observed an increased nestin expression in the myenteric plexus in the remaining bowel with SBS. Our human data also showed that in patients with SBS, the proportion of stem cells in the myenteric plexus had risen by more than twofold. Our findings suggest that the ENS is tightly connected to changes in intestinal muscle layers and is critically involved in the process of intestinal adaptation to SBS.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction based on response surface methodology using HPLC-DAD for the analysis of red clover (Trifolium pretense L.) isoflavones and its anti-inflammatory activities on LPS-induced 3D4/2 cell

Introduction

Trifolium pratense L. has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardiovascular disease prevention, and estrogen-like effects. The existing method for the assay of effective components is commonly based on a spectrophotometer, which could not meet the requirement of quality control. Furthermore, although there have been many studies on the anti-inflammation effect of red clover, a few have been reported on the regulatory effect of red clover isoflavones (RCI) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in porcine alveolar macrophages (3D4/2 cells), and its mechanism of action is still unclear.

Methods

The main components of RCI including daidzein, genistein, and biochanin A were accurately quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) after optimizing the extraction process through response surface methodology. The anti-inflammatory potential of RCI was carried out by detecting the level of inflammatory cytokines and mRNA expression of related genes. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory mechanism was explored by investigating two signaling pathways (NF-κB and MAPK).

Results

The optimal extraction conditions of RCI were as follows: the concentration of ethanol is 86% and the solid-liquid ratio is 1:29, with the herb particle size of 40 mesh sieve. Under the optimal conditions, the total extraction of target components of RCI was 2,641.469 μg/g. The RCI could significantly suppress the production and expression of many pro-inflammatory cytokines. The results of the Western blot revealed that RCI dramatically reduced the expression of p65, p-p65, IκB-α, p38, and p-p38. These results are associated with the suppression of the signal pathway of p38 MAPK, and on the contrary, activating the NF-κB pathway. Collectively, our data demonstrated that RCI reversed the transcription of inflammatory factors and inhibited the expression of p65, p-p65, IκB-α, and p38, indicating that RCI had excellent anti-inflammatory properties through disturbing the activation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways.

Conclusion

The extraction conditions of RCI were optimized by HPLC-DAD combined with response surface methodology, which will contribute to the quality control of RCI. RCI had anti-inflammatory effects on the LPS-induced 3D4/2 cells. Its mechanism is to control the activation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways, thereby reducing the expression of inflammatory-related genes and suppressing the release of cytokines.

Jasminum humile (Linn) ameliorates CCl4-induced oxidative stress by regulating ER stress, inflammatory, and fibrosis markers in rats

Jasminum humile (Linn) is highly valued for its medicinal properties. The pulp and decoction made from its leaves are effective for skin diseases. Juice prepared from roots is used against ringworm illness. Our current study aims to illustrate the non-toxicity and protective potential of methanol extract of Jasminum humile (JHM) against CCl₄-induced oxidative stress in the liver of rats. Qualitative phytochemical screening, total flavonoids (TFC), and total phenolic content (TPC) assays were performed with JHM. The toxicity of the plant was estimated by treating female rats at different JHM doses while to assess anti-inflammatory potential of plant nine groups of male rats (six rats/group) received different treatments such as: CCl₄ only (1 ml/kg mixed with olive oil in a ratio of 3:7), silymarin (200 mg/kg) + CCl₄, different doses of JHM alone at a ratio of 1:2:4, and JHM (at a ratio of 1:2:4) + CCl₄, and were examined for different antioxidant enzymes, serum markers, and histological changes, while mRNA expression of stress, inflammatory and fibrosis markers were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Different phytochemicals were found in JHM. A high amount of total phenolic and flavonoid content was found (89.71 ± 2.79 mg RE/g and 124.77 ± 2.41 mg GAE/g) in the methanolic extract of the plant. Non-toxicity of JHM was revealed even at higher doses of JHM. Normal levels of serum markers in blood serum and antioxidant enzymes in tissue homogenates were found after co-administration of JHM along with CCl₄. However, CCl₄ treatment caused oxidative stress in the liver by enhancing the levels of stress and inflammatory markers and reducing antioxidant enzyme levels, while JHM treatment showed significant (P < 0.05) downregulation was in mRNA expression of those markers. Investigation of mechanism of specific signaling pathways related to apoptosis and clinical trials to assess safety and efficacy of optimal dosage of Jasminum humile will be helpful to develop FDA-approved drug.

Biochanin A in murine Schistosoma mansoni infection: effects on inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis

Biochanin A (BCA) is a multifunctional natural compound that possesses anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and hepatoprotective effects. The aim of the study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of BCA on Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Fifty mice were divided into six different groups as non-infected, non-infected BCA-treated, infected untreated, early infected BCA-treated (seven days post-infection (dpi)), late infected BCA-treated 60 dpi and infected praziquantel (PZQ)-treated groups. Parasitological, histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) were investigated in liver sections. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene expression of S. mansoni was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A single dose of BCA significantly reduced worm burden in early (82.14%) and late infection (77.74%), mean tissue egg load in early (7.27 ± 0.495) and late BCA administration (7.63 ± 0.435) and decreased granuloma size. CYP450 mRNA expression was significantly reduced in early BCA treatment as compared to late treatment which emphasizes that early administration of BCA had more pronounced effects on worms than late administration. Both early and late BCA administration led to significant reduction in inflammatory cytokines as TGF and iNOS. Although the reduction of TGF and iNOS in BCA-treated mice was superior to PZQ, no statistically significant differences were noted. However, a significant downregulation of COX2 was noted in hepatocytes as compared to both infected control and PZQ-treated mice. BCA has schistosomicidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects and could be regarded as a potential drug in schistosomiasis treatment.

Activity of isoflavone biochanin A in chronic experimental toxoplasmosis: impact on inflammation

Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide prevalent parasite. The infection has been linked to variable inflammatory effects including neuroinflammation. Biochanin A (BCA) is an isoflavone, known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. In this study, we examined the effect of BCA on the brain and liver inflammatory lesions in a murine model with chronic toxoplasmosis. Mice were divided in to six groups: non-infected control, non-infected BCA-treated, and four infected groups with Toxoplasmagondii Me49-type II cystogenic strain: infected control, BCA (50 mg/kg/day)-treated, combined BCA/cotrimoxazole-treated and cotrimoxazole (370 mg/kg/day) alone-treated. Gene expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR in the brain and liver tissues. In the infected control group, an upregulation of TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA expression levels was found. However, a downregulation of iNOS expression was detected in the brain of infected control mice. In both BCA- and combined-treated groups, the brain and liver tissues showed significantly reduced inflammatory lesions compared to the infected control mice with inhibited TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA levels. The iNOS expression levels in the brain tissues of BCA group were significantly higher than the levels of the infected control group. BCA alone or combined significantly reduced T. gondii cyst count in the brain tissues. In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory activity of BCA was demonstrated in the brain tissues of mice with chronic toxoplasmosis with decreased TNF-α and IL-1β expression levels and increased iNOS expression levels.

Biochanin A as a modulator of the inflammatory response: an updated overview and therapeutic potential

Uncontrolled inflammation and failure to resolve the inflammatory response are crucial factors involved in the progress of inflammatory diseases. Current therapeutic strategies aimed at controlling excessive inflammation are effective in some cases, though they may be accompanied by severe side effects, such as immunosuppression. Phytochemicals as a therapeutic alternative can have a fundamental impact on the different stages of inflammation and its resolution. Biochanin A (BCA) is an isoflavone known for its wide range of pharmacological properties, especially its marked anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies have provided evidence of BCA's abilities to activate events essential for resolving inflammation. In this review, we summarize the most recent findings from pre-clinical studies of the pharmacological effects of BCA on the complex signaling network associated with the onset and resolution of inflammation and BCA's potential protective functionality in several models of inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, pulmonary disease, neuroinflammation, and metabolic disease.

Biochanin A Sensitizes Glioblastoma to Temozolomide by Inhibiting Autophagy

Resistance to temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy is the main reason for treatment failure in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). In the present study, we investigated biochanin A (BCA) a potent sensitizer of TMZ in GBM. We observed that BCA significantly enhanced cell sensitivity to TMZ in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the specific chemosensitizing effect of BCA is mediated by autophagy inhibition. Moreover, by performing a molecular docking analysis, we demonstrated that BCA interacts with AMPK residues and impairs autophagy by regulating the AMPK/ULK1 pathway. These results suggest that BCA is a potential therapeutic agent that sensitizes GBM to TMZ and provide new insight into its therapeutic potential in chemoresistant GBM.

Biochanin-A: A Bioactive Natural Product with Versatile Therapeutic Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Biochanin-A (5,7 dihydroxy 4 methoxy isoflavone) is a phytochemical phytoestrogen that is highly effective against various diseases. Biochanin-A is a nutritional and dietary isoflavonoid naturally present in red clover, chickpea, soybeans and other herbs. Biochanin- A possesses numerous biological activities.

OBJECTIVE

The study focused on collective data of therapeutic activities of Biochanin-A.

METHODS

According to the literature, biochanin-A revealed a range of activities starting from chemoprevention, by hindering cell growth, activation of tumor cell death, hampering metastasis, angiogenic action, cell cycle regulation, neuroprotection, by controlling microglial activation, balancing antioxidants, elevating the neurochemicals, suppressing BACE-1, NADPH oxidase hindrance to inflammation, by mitigating the MAPK and NF- κB, discharge of inflammatory markers, upregulating the PPAR-γ, improving the function of heme oxygenase-1, erythroid 2 nuclear factors, detoxifying the oxygen radicals and stimulating the superoxide dismutase action, and controlling its production of transcription factors. Against pathogens, biochanin-A acts by dephosphorylating tyrosine kinase proteins, obstructing gram-negative bacteria, suppressing the development of cytokines from viruses, and improving the action of a neuraminidase cleavage of caspase-3, and acts as an efflux pump inhibitor. In metabolic disorders, biochanin-A acts by encouraging transcriptional initiation and inhibition, activating estrogen receptors, and increasing the activity of differentiation, autophagy, inflammation, and blood glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, biochanin-A could be used as a therapeutic drug for various pathological conditions and treatments in human beings.

Isoflavones derived from plant raw materials: bioavailability, anti-cancer, anti-aging potentials, and microbiome modulation

Isoflavones are secondary metabolites that represent the most abundant category of plant polyphenols. Dietary soy, kudzu, and red clover contain primarily genistein, daidzein, glycitein, puerarin, formononetin, and biochanin A. The structural similarity of these compounds to β-estradiol has demonstrated protection against age-related and hormone-dependent diseases in both genders. Demonstrative shreds of evidence confirmed the fundamental health benefits of the consumption of these isoflavones. These relevant activities are complex and largely driven by the source, active ingredients, dose, and administration period of the bioactive compounds. However, the preclinical and clinical studies of these compounds are greatly variable, controversial, and still with no consensus due to the non-standardized research protocols. In addition, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion studies, and the safety profile of isoflavones have been far limited. This highlights a major gap in understanding the potentially critical role of these isoflavones as prospective replacement therapy. Our general review exclusively focuses attention on the crucial role of isoflavones derived from these plant materials and critically highlights their bioavailability, possible anticancer, antiaging potentials, and microbiome modulation. Despite their fundamental health benefits, plant isoflavones reveal prospective therapeutic effects that worth further standardized analysis.

Biochanin A Inhibits Glioblastoma Growth via Restricting Glycolysis and Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation

Abnormal metabolism serves a critical role in glioblastoma (GBM). Biochanin A (BCA), a flavonoid phenolic compound found in edible and herbal plants, has antioxidative and antitumor activities. However, it remains unclear whether BCA has an effect on energy metabolism. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anticancer effects and molecular mechanism of the effect of BCA on energy metabolism. We observed that BCA inhibited the growth of U251 cells by the mitochondria-mediated intrinsic apoptotic pathway. BCA treatment reduced metabolic function, repressed mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in GBM. In addition, we found that BCA decreased aerobic glycolysis by inactivation of the AKT/mTOR pathway. Taken together, the results demonstrate that treatment with BCA inhibited the proliferation of GBM by regulating metabolic reprogramming.

Modified Biochanin A Release from Dual pH- and Thermo-Responsive Copolymer Hydrogels

The temperature- and pH-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid), p(NIPAM-co-AA), copolymer was synthesized by free radical polymerization and examined as a carrier for modified release of biochanin A. Biochanin A is a biologically active methoxylated isoflavone which exhibits estrogenic and other pharmacological activities. Due to its poor aqueous solubility and extensive first-pass metabolism, biochanin A has low bioavailability. The aim of this work was to incorporate biochanin A into the synthesized p(NIPAM-co-AA) copolymer and to examine its release at the body temperature and pH values that correspond to pH values of vaginal and rectal cavities. The amount of released biochanin A was monitored by the ultra-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) method. The structure of synthesized p(NIPAM-co-AA) copolymer and copolymer with incorporated biochanin A were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. The content of residual monomers in the synthesized copolymer was analyzed by using the high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The swelling behavior of p(NIPAM-co-AA) copolymer was monitored in relation to the temperature and pH values of the surrounding medium. For modelling the process of p(NIPAM-co-AA) copolymer swelling, the full three-level factorial design was applied.

Biochanin-A ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing the TGF-β mediated EMT, myofibroblasts differentiation and collagen deposition in in vitro and in vivo systems

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive inflammatory disorder driven by a fibrotic cascade of events such as epithelial to mesenchymal transition, extracellular matrix production and collagen formation in the lungs in a sequential manner. IPF incidences were raising rapidly across the world. FDA approved pirfenidone and nintedanib (tyrosine kinase inhibitors) are being used as a first-line treatment drugs for IPF, however, neither the quality of life nor survival rates have been improved because of patient noncompliance due to multiple side effects. Thus, the development of novel therapeutic approaches targeting TGF-β mediated cascade of fibrotic events is urgently needed to improve the survival of the patients suffering from devastating disease.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate and validate the anti-fibrotic properties of Biochanin-A (isoflavone) against TGF-β mediated fibrosis in in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo models and to determine the molecular mechanisms that mediate these anti-fibrotic effects.

METHODS

The therapeutic activity of BCA was determined in in vitro/ex vivo models. Cells were pre-treated with BCA and incubated in presence or absence of recombinant-TGF-β to stimulate the fibrotic cascade of events. Pulmonary fibrosis was developed by intratracheal administration of bleomycin in rats. BCA treatment was given for 14 days from post bleomycin instillation and then various investigations (collagen content, fibrosis gene/protein expression and histopathological changes) were performed to assess the anti-fibrotic activity of BCA.

RESULTS

In vitro/ex vivo (Primary normal, IPF cell line and primary IPF cells/ Precision cut mouse lung slices) experiments revealed that, BCA treatment significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the expression of TGF-β modulated fibrotic genes/protein expressions (including their functions) which are involved in the cascade of fibrotic events. BCA treatment significantly (p < 0.01) reduced the bleomycin-induced inflammatory cell-infiltration, inflammatory markers expression, collagen deposition and expression of fibrotic markers in lung tissues equivalent or better than pirfenidone treatment. In addition, BCA treatment significantly (p < 0.001) attenuated the TGF-β1/BLM-mediated increase of TGF-β/Smad2/3 phosphorylation and resulted in the reduction of pathological abnormalities in lung tissues determined by histopathology observations.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, BCA treatment demonstrated the remarkable therapeutic effects on TGF-β/BLM mediated pulmonary fibrosis using IPF cells and rodent models. This current study may offer a novel treatment approach to halt and may be even rescue the devastating lung scarring of IPF.

Beneficial and Deleterious Effects of Female Sex Hormones, Oral Contraceptives, and Phytoestrogens by Immunomodulation on the Liver

The liver is considered the laboratory of the human body because of its many metabolic processes. It accomplishes diverse activities as a mixed gland and is in continuous cross-talk with the endocrine system. Not only do hormones from the gastrointestinal tract that participate in digestion regulate the liver functions, but the sex hormones also exert a strong influence on this sexually dimorphic organ, via their receptors expressed in liver, in both health and disease. Besides, the liver modifies the actions of sex hormones through their metabolism and transport proteins. Given the anatomical position and physiological importance of liver, this organ is evidenced as an immune vigilante that mediates the systemic immune response, and, in turn, the immune system regulates the hepatic functions. Such feedback is performed by cytokines. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines are strongly involved in hepatic homeostasis and in pathological states; indeed, female sex hormones, oral contraceptives, and phytoestrogens have immunomodulatory effects in the liver and the whole organism. To analyze the complex and interesting beneficial or deleterious effects of these drugs by their immunomodulatory actions in the liver can provide the basis for either their pharmacological use in therapeutic treatments or to avoid their intake in some diseases.

Perspectives Regarding the Role of Biochanin A in Humans

Biochanin A (BCA) is an isoflavone mainly found in red clover with poor solubility and oral absorption that is known to have various effects, including anti-inflammatory, estrogen-like, and glucose and lipid metabolism modulatory activity, as well as cancer preventive, neuroprotective, and drug interaction effects. BCA is already commercially available and is among the main ingredients in many types of supplements used to alleviate postmenopausal symptoms in women. The activity of BCA has not been adequately evaluated in humans. However, the results of many in vitro and in vivo studies investigating the potential health benefits of BCA are available, and the complex mechanisms by which BCA modulates transcription, apoptosis, metabolism, and immune responses have been revealed. Many efforts have been exerted to improve the poor bioavailability of BCA, and very promising results have been reported. This review focuses on the major effects of BCA and its possible molecular targets, potential uses, and limitations in health maintenance and treatment.

Baicalin protects mouse testis from injury induced by heat stress

Heat stress has been documented to reduce reproductive performance of female animals through injury to germ cells, with few studies available in male animals. The objectives of this study were to evaluate protective effects of baicalin on testicular tissue damage of mice subjected to heat stress and its related mechanisms. In this experiment, A total of forty mice were divided into four groups, including control group (C), baicalin group (B), heat stressed group (H) and heat stress with baicalin treatment (H + B) group. Morphological changes, activities of antioxidant enzymes and apoptosis-related parameters in the mice testes tissue were monitored. The results showed that the process of spermatogenesis in mice testis was impaired and the cellular apoptosis increased due to acute heat stress at 41 °C. Interestingly, the tissue damage was alleviated with the significant (P < 0.05) increase in the activities of SOD, CAT and GSH-Px enzymes, decrease (P < 0.05) in MDA content and number of cellular apoptosis recorded in mice of H + B group compared with those in mice from H group. In addition, the Fas, FasL and P-JNK protein expressions were significantly (P < 0.05) increased; and apaf-1, caspase-3, -9 were slightly expressed in the H group, while there was no difference in Bcl-2 expression, compared with C, B and H + B groups. The above results clearly indicate that heat stress induces macroscopic/apoptotic and oxidative changes in the testicular tissue of mice; these changes are alleviated by Baicalin through increasing anti-oxidative enzyme activities and possibly through blocking Fas/FasL pathway.

Efficacy of Sunitinib, Sunitinib-Hesperetin, and Sunitinib-Doxycycline Combinations on Experimentally-Induced Corneal Neovascularization

Purpose: To investigate the preventive effects of topical sunitinib, sunitinib-hesperetin and sunitinib-doxycycline combinations on corneal neovascularization (CNV), apoptosis and fibrosis in a corneal alkali burn model. Materials and Methods: The corneas of 32 Wistar albino rats were cauterized with silver nitrate to induce CNV. Four groups were created receiving artificial tears (sham), sunitinib (0.5 mg/ml), sunitinib-hesperetin (0.5 mg/ml-0.2 mg/ml), and sunitinib-doxycycline (0.5 mg/ml-20 mg/ml) treatments. Corneal photographs were taken on days 0, 7 and 15‎. Photographs of the cornea were digitally analyzed to measure the size of the neovascularization area in comparison to the total corneal surface area. On the 15th day, the animals were euthanized, and the eyes were enucleated for immunohistochemical staining to investigate neovascularization, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Results: CNV areas on the 7th day in the sunitinib (4.8% ± 0.07%) and sunitinib-hesperetin (1.1% ± 0.03%) groups were smaller than those in the sham group (33.9% ± 0.12%) (p = 0.001 and, p < 0.001 respectively). On the 15th day, the CNV area in the sunitinib-hesperetin (20.8% ± 0.37%) group was significantly smaller than that of the sham group (74.6% ± 0.32%) (p = 0.039). The combination groups had lower levels of VEGF, TUNEL and α-SMA positivity than the sunitinib monotherapy group. TUNEL positivity was lowest in the sunitinib-hesperetin and sunitinib-doxycycline groups, and α-SMA positivity was lowest in the sunitinib-hesperetin group. Conclusion: Topical sunitinib-hesperetin was more effective than sunitinib alone and the sunitinib-doxycycline combination in the treatment of CNV. The combination of sunitinib and hesperetin seems to be a promising treatment for preventing corneal fibrosis and apoptosis.

Biochanin A extirpates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in a human lung cancer

The natural iso-flavonoid, biochanin A, is categorized as a phytoestrogen and has been demonstrated to exhibit various pharmacological properties. However, no effects of biochanin A on lung cancer cell lines have been reported. Therefore, the present study aimed to demonstrate whether biochanin A has the ability to reduce lung cancer triggered pro-inflammatory effects from leukemic monocytes. We studied the release of cytokines, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6, from the cocultured cells of A427:AML-193. In addition to this, epithelial-mesenchymal transition was also monitored. In the cocultured A427 and AML-193, AML-193 was stimulated by A427 cells assisting the release of TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines, but the addition of A427 with biochanin A reduced A427-triggered generation of cytokines by AML-193. Moreover, this non-functional A427:AML-193 coculture reduced the metastasis effects of A427 cells, as determined by wound healing assays and migration/invasion assays. These results were further confirmed by a reduction in Snail and E-cadherin expression levels, which are indicators of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These findings suggest the therapeutic effect of biochanin A against lung cancer evoked inflammation and pro-inflammatory functions from monocytic cells.

Aluminum-induced molecular neurodegeneration: The protective role of genistein and chickpea extract

Neurotoxicity of Al is well established and linked to oxidative damage and neurodegeneration. This study investigated the protective role of genistein (Gen) and chickpea extract (CPE) against AlCl₃-induced neurodegeneration. HPLC analysis revealed that biochanin A-7-O-β-D-glucoside and biochanin A are the major components of the CPE. Gene expression of TNF-α, APP, BACE1, PSEN-2 and ER-β were assessed in brain extract using RT-PCR. Also, NF-кB subunit P65 and COX-2 expression were evaluated by western blotting. The cholinergic function, histological examination and oxidative status were also estimated. The AlCl₃ significantly up regulated the expression of the NF-кB subunit P65, COX-2, TNF- α, BACE1and APP while it significantly down regulated PSEN-2 and ER-β expression. The activity of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) and the oxidative stress parameters as well as the histological examination confirmed the deleterious effect of AlCl₃. The administration of either CPE or Gen attenuated the expression of inflammatory cytokines, inhibited the amyloidogenesis and restored both the AChE activity and ER-β expression. Gen and CPE also inhibited the oxidative stress and ameliorated the histological alterations. Accordingly, the present study provides an insight on the molecular role of Gen and CPE as protective agents against neuronal injury.

Methanol extract of Nymphaea lotus ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic liver injury in rats via inhibition of oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Nymphaea lotus (NL) is an aquatic perennial plant used traditionally in the management of various liver diseases. In this study, the protective effect of methanol extract of NL against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic hepatotoxicity in rats was investigated.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were assigned into six groups of five rats each. Group I received corn oil (0.5 mL p.o.) and served as control, group II received CCl4 (1 mL/kg i.p., 1:3 in corn oil), group III received NL (200 mg/kg), and groups IV, V, and VI received CCl4+NL (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively) for 6 weeks. Twenty-four hours after the last exposure, rats were bled and killed.

RESULTS

The activities of alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and levels of total bilirubin (TB) in the serum, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione (GSH) in the liver, and histopathology of the liver were determined using standard procedures. NL significantly (p<0.05) lowered the levels of ALT, AST, and TB and exhibited antioxidant potentials in rats exposed to CCl4 relative to the control values. Specifically, NL at 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) increased CCl4-induced decrease in hepatic GSH and GPx and also decreased the level of hepatic TBARS in CCl4-intoxicated rats. Histopathological findings revealed cellular infiltration and fibrosis in rats that received CCl4 only, which were ameliorated in rats that received NL+CCl4.

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest that NL exhibited hepatoprotective effects in CCl4-intoxicated rats via antioxidative mechanism.

The Protective Properties of the Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats Mediated by Anti-Apoptotic and Upregulation of Antioxidant Genes Expression Effects

The strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) has been extensively used to treat a wide range of ailments in many cultures. The present study was aimed at evaluating the hepatoprotective effect of strawberry juice on experimentally induced liver injury in rats. To this end, rats were introperitoneally injected with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) with or without strawberry juice supplementation for 12 weeks and the hepatoprotective effect of strawberry was assessed by measuring serum liver enzyme markers, hepatic tissue redox status and apoptotic markers with various techniques including biochemistry, ELISA, quantitative PCR assays and histochemistry. The hepatoprotective effect of the strawberry was evident by preventing CCl₄-induced increase in liver enzymes levels. Determination of oxidative balance showed that strawberry treatment significantly blunted CCl₄-induced increase in oxidative stress markers and decrease in enzymatic and non-enzymatic molecules in hepatic tissue. Furthermore, strawberry supplementation enhanced the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2, and restrained the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and caspase-3 with a marked reduction in collagen areas in hepatic tissue. These findings demonstrated that strawberry (F. ananassa) juice possessed antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-fibrotic properties, probably mediated by the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids compounds.

Biochanin A Protects Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Damage of Dopaminergic Neurons Both In Vivo and In Vitro via Inhibition of Microglial Activation

Neuroinflammation has been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Inhibition of microglia-mediated neuroinflammation might be a potential strategy for PD treatment. Biochanin A, is an O-methylated isoflavone, classified as a kind of phytoestrogens due to its chemical structure that is similar to mammalian estrogens. It has been found to possess antifibrotic, antiapoptotic, and antioxidant effects. In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of biochanin A on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced dopaminergic neurons damage both in vivo and in vitro and the related molecular mechanisms. The results showed that biochanin A treatment for 21 days significantly attenuated the behavioral dysfunction of PD rats, prevented dopaminergic neurons damage, and inhibited activation of microglia in the LPS-induced PD rats. Furthermore, biochanin A decreased the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the serum, and inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, p38 in the substantia nigra of PD rats. In vitro test, biochanin A also inhibited primary microglial activation and protected dopaminergic neurons, decreased the content of nitric oxide, IL-1β, and TNF-α in supernatants, and inhibited the reactive oxygen species production. Taken together, these results suggest that biochanin A exerts protective effects on LPS-induced PD rats, and the mechanisms may be associated with the inhibition of inflammatory response and the MAPK signaling pathway.

Biochanin A protects lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine-induced acute liver injury in mice by activating the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Biochanin A, an isoflavone existed in red clover and peanuts, has been reported to possess a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the protective effects and mechanism of biochanin A on liver injury have not been reported. In this study, acute liver injury was induced by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and d-galactosamine (D-GalN). Biochanin A was administrated 1h prior to LPS/D-GalN challenge. Serum ALT, AST, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), GPx, SOD, and Catalase contents, tissue histology, IL-1β, TNF-α, NLRP3, and Nrf2 expression were detected. The results showed that serum ALT, AST, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels and hepatic MDA content increased after LPS/GalN treatment. These changes were attenuated by biochanin A. Meanwhile, biochanin A dose-dependently up-regulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. Biochanin A also inhibited hepatic IL-1β and TNF-α expression in a dose-dependent manner. Biochanin A did not inhibit LPS/D-GalN-induced hepatic NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 expression. However, the interaction of NLRP3 with ASC and caspase-1 were inhibited by biochanin A. In addition, LPS/D-GalN-induced up-regulation of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and interaction between TXNIP and NLRP3 were also inhibited by biochanin A. In conclusion, biochanin A protected against LPS/GalN-induced liver injury by activating the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Biochanin A protects dopaminergic neurons against lipopolysaccharide-induced damage and oxidative stress in a rat model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, which is characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Accumulated evidences have suggested that oxidative stress is closely associated with the dopaminergic neurodegeneration of PD that can be protected by antioxidants. Biochanin A that is an O-methylated isoflavone in chickpea is investigated to explore its protective mechanism on dopaminergic neurons of the unilateral lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-injected rat. The results showed that biochanin A significantly improved the animal model's behavioral symptoms, prevented the loss of dopaminergic neurons and inhibited the deleterious microglia activation in the LPS-induced rats. Moreover, biochanin A inhibited nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NADPH oxidase) activation and malondialdehyde (MDA) production, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in the rat brain. These results suggested that biochanin A might be a natural candidate with protective properties on dopaminergic neurons against the PD.

Hepatocyte Growth Factor Mediates the Antifibrogenic Action of Ocimum bacilicum Essential Oil against CCl4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats

The current investigation aimed to evaluate the antifibrogenic potential of Ocimum basilicum essential oil (OBE) and further to explore some of its underlying mechanisms. Three groups of rats were used: group I (control), group II (CCl₄ model) and group III (OBE-treated) received CCl₄ and OBE 2 weeks after the start of CCl₄ administration. Oxidative damage was assessed by the measurement of MDA, NO, SOD, CAT, GSH and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Liver fibrosis was assessed histopathologically by Masson’s trichrome staining and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunostaining. Expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and cytochrome P450 (CYP2EI isoform) was estimated using real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. OBE successfully attenuated liver injury, as shown by histopathology, decreased serum transaminases and improved oxidative status of the liver. Reduced collagen deposition and α-SMA immuopositive cells indicated an abrogation of hepatic stellate cell activation by OBE. Furthermore, OBE was highly effective in stimulating HGF mRNA and protein expression and inhibiting CCl₄-induced CYP2E1 down-regulation. The mechanism of antifibrogenic action of OBE is hypothesized to proceed via scavenging free radicals and activating liver regeneration by induction of HGF. These data suggest the use of OBE as a complementary treatment in liver fibrosis.

Novel insights into the mechanisms whereby isoflavones protect against fatty liver disease

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a growing public health problem worldwide. There is an urgent requirement for alternative and natural medicine to treat this disease. As phytochemicals, isoflavones have attracted considerable attention for the prevention of FLD. Numerous studies have revealed that isoflavones protect against FLD through various pathways which modulate fatty acid β-oxidation, lipid synthesis, and oxidative stress. Recently, the aldose reductase (AR)/polyol pathway has been reported to be involved in the development of FLD by modulating hepatic fructose production, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α activity, cytochrome P450 (CYP)2E1 expression, and gut bacterial endotoxin-induced cytokine release. It has been reported that some isoflavones are potent AR inhibitors. Here, we review the anti-FLD actions of isoflavones and the proposed mechanism whereby isoflavones protect against FLD, with regard to the AR/polyol pathway. We propose that isoflavones block the AR/polyol pathway and in turn reduce fructose production and subsequent fat accumulation in the liver in diabetic or high-glucose-diet mice. In addition, in rodents with alcoholic liver disease or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, inhibition of AR by isoflavones may improve PPARα-mediated fatty acid oxidation, reduce hepatic steatosis, and attenuate CYP2E1-mediated oxidative stress or AR/gut bacterial endotoxin-mediated cytokine overproduction, to alleviate progression of FLD.

The potential protective effect of Physalis peruviana L. against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats is mediated by suppression of oxidative stress and downregulation of MMP-9 expression

The active constituent profile in Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) juice was determined by GC-MS. Quercetin and kaempferol were active components in the juice. In this study we have evaluated its potential protective effect on hepatic injury and fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Twenty-eight rats divided into 4 groups: Group I served as control group, and Group II received weekly i.p. injection of 2 mL CCl4/kg bwt for 12 weeks. Group III were supplemented with Physalis juice via the drinking water. The animals of Group IV received Physalis juice as Group III and also were intraperitoneally injected weekly with 2 mL CCl4/kg bwt for 12 weeks. Hepatoprotective effect was evaluated by improvement in liver enzymes serum levels, reduction in collagen areas, downregulation in expression of the fibrotic marker MMP-9, reduction in the peroxidative marker malonaldehyde and the inflammatory marker nitric oxide, and restoration of the activity of antioxidant enzymatic and nonenzymatic systems, namely, glutathione content, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase activities. The results show that the potential hepatoprotective effects of Physalis peruviana may be due to physalis acts by promotion of processes that restore hepatolobular architecture and through the inhibition of oxidative stress pathway.