Hyperoside attenuates renal aging and injury induced by D-galactose via inhibiting AMPK-ULK1 signaling-mediated autophagy

Antidepressant-like effects of hyperoside on chronic stress-induced depressive-like behaviors in mice: Gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids

BACKGROUND

The antidepressant effect of hyperoside (HYP), which is the main component of Hypericum perforatum, is not established. This study aimed to determine the effects of HYP on depression.

METHODS

The antidepressant-like effect of HYP was studied in mice induced by chronic restraint stress (CRS). The effects of HYP on behavior, inflammation, neurotransmitters, gut microbiota, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were studied in CRS mice.

RESULTS

HYP improved depressive-like behavior in mice induced by CRS. Nissl staining analysis showed that HYP improved neuronal damage in CRS mice. Western blot (WB) analysis showed that HYP increased the expression levels of BDNF and PSD95 in the hippocampus of CRS mice. The results of ELISA showed that HYP down-regulated the expression levels of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and CORT in the hippocampus, blood, and intestinal tissues of mice and up-regulated the expression levels of 5-HT and BDNF. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining results indicate that HYP can improve the intestinal histopathological injury of CRS mice. The results of 16S rRNA demonstrated that HYP attenuated the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota of depressed mice, along with altering the concentration of SCFAs.

LIMITATIONS

In the present study, direct evidence that HYP improves depressive behaviors via gut microbiota and SCFAs is lacking, and only female mice were evaluated, which limits the understanding of the effects of HYP on both sexes.

CONCLUSIONS

HYP can improve CRS-induced depressive-like behaviors in mice, which is associated with regulating the gut microbiota and SCFAs concentration.

Protective Effect of Curcumin on D-Galactose-Induced Senescence and Oxidative Stress in LLC-PK1 and HK-2 Cells

D-galactose has been widely used as an inducer of cellular senescence and pathophysiological processes related to aging because it induces oxidative stress. On the other hand, the consumption of antioxidants such as curcumin can be an effective strategy to prevent phenotypes related to the enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as aging and senescence. This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of curcumin on senescence and oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by D-galactose treatment in Lilly Laboratories Culture-Porcine Kidney 1 (LLC-PK1) and human kidney 2 (HK-2) proximal tubule cell lines from pig and human, respectively. For senescence induction, cells were treated with 300 mM D-galactose for 120 h and, to evaluate the protective effect of the antioxidant, cells were treated with 5 µM curcumin for 24 h and subsequently treated with curcumin + D-galactose for 120 h. In LLC-PK1 cells, curcumin treatment decreased by 20% the number of cells positive for senescence-associated (SA)-β-D-galactosidase staining and by 25% the expression of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and increased by 40% lamin B1 expression. In HK-2 cells, curcumin treatment increased by 60% the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA, 50% Klotho levels, and 175% catalase activity. In both cell lines, this antioxidant decreased the production of ROS (20% decrease for LLC-PK1 and 10 to 20% for HK-2). These data suggest that curcumin treatment has a moderate protective effect on D-galactose-induced senescence in LLC-PK1 and HK-2 cells.

Study on the substance basis of the efficacy of eucommiae cortex before and after salt processing for the treatment of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome based on the spectrum-effect relationship

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kidney-Yang deficiency syndrome (KYDS) is one of the common diseases of the elderly and closely related to the ageing of the body, it has a major impact on the quality of life of the patient. Eucommiae Cortex (EC) is the dried bark of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. Which has the effect of tonifying the liver and kidneys, strengthening the muscles and bones. In Traditional Chinese Medicine clinics, EC is commonly used in the treatment of KYDS, but the material basis for the improvement of its efficacy in treating KYDS after salt processing remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to find the main active ingredients that could improve the treatment of KYDS efficacy of EC after salt processing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, the fingerprints of raw and salt-processed EC were established to determine the common components by using HPLC, and then an experimental study on the treatment of KYDS efficacy was carried out to compare the difference in the efficacy between raw and salt-processed EC. Thirdly, the spectrum-effect relationship of chemical components and pharmacodynamic indexes was established by using Grey Relational Analysis and Entropy Method. Finally, the network pharmacology and molecular docking technique was used to verify the kidney tonifying effect of the active ingredients of EC.

RESULTS

According to the results of the analysis of hormonal index levels on the hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axis and the extent of renal lesions, the therapeutic effect of EC on KYDS was mainly reflected in the regulation of the Adrenocorticotropic hormone, Corticosterone in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and Tri-iodothyronine, Tetra-iodothyronine in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, moreover the therapeutic effect of salt-processed EC was stronger than that of raw EC. The pharmacologically active ingredients that improved its treatment of KYDS efficacy after salt processing were peak 1 (geniposidic acid), peak 2 (chlorogenic acid), peak 5 (geniposide), peak 6 (genipin), peak 7 (pinoresinol diglucoside) and peak 11 (hyperoside). Meanwhile, the results of network pharmacology and molecular docking showed that the 6 active ingredients could exert kidney tonic effects through multiple signaling pathways by acting on core targets such as AKT1 and PTGS2.

CONCLUSION

As far as we known, this was the first time to establish and compare the spectrum-effect relationship between raw and salt-processed EC, which laid the foundation for the pharmacokinetics studies of EC and provided a reference for future EC studies.

Hyperoside ameliorates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by regulating the expression and function of Oat1

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent to treat solid tumours in clinics. However, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) limits its clinical application. This study investigated the effect of hyperoside (a flavonol glycoside compound) on regulating AKI.The model of cisplatin-induced AKI was established, and hyperoside was preadministered to investigate its effect on improving kidney injury.Hyperoside ameliorated renal pathological damage, reduced the accumulation of SCr, BUN, Kim-1 and indoxyl sulphate in vivo, increased the excretion of indoxyl sulphate into the urine, and upregulated the expression of renal organic anion transporter 1 (Oat1). Moreover, evaluation of rat kidney slices demonstrated that hyperoside promoted the uptake of PAH (p-aminohippurate, the Oat1 substrate), which was confirmed by transient over-expression of OAT1 in HEK-293T cells. Additionally, hyperoside upregulated the mRNA expression of Oat1 upstream regulators hepatocyte nuclear factor-1α (HNF-1α) and pregnane X receptor (PXR).These findings indicated hyperoside could protect against cisplatin-induced AKI by promoting indoxyl sulphate excretion through regulating the expression and function of Oat1, suggesting hyperoside may offer a potential tactic for cisplatin-induced AKI treatment.

Hyperoside alleviates photoreceptor degeneration by preventing cell senescence through AMPK-ULK1 signaling

Vision loss and blindness are frequently caused by photoreceptor degeneration, for example in age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. However, there is no effective medicine to treat these photoreceptor degeneration-related diseases. Cell senescence is a common phenotype in many diseases; however, few studies have reported whether it occurs in photoreceptor degeneration diseases. Herein, we identified that cell senescence is associated with photoreceptor degeneration induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU, a commonly used photoreceptor degeneration model), presented as increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation-related cytokine Interleukin 6 (IL6), and upregulation of cyclin p21 or p16. These results suggested that visual function might be protected using anti-aging treatment. Furthermore, Hyperoside is reported to help prevent aging in various organs. In this study, we showed that Hyperoside, delivered intravitreally, alleviated photoreceptor cell senescence and ameliorated the functional and morphological degeneration of the retina in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, Hyperoside attenuated the MNU-induced injury and aging of photoreceptors via AMPK-ULK1 signaling inhibition. Taken together, our results demonstrated that Hyperoside can prevent MNU-induced photoreceptor degeneration by inhibiting cell senescence via the AMPK-ULK1 pathway.

The pharmacological mechanism of Abelmoschus manihot in the treatment of chronic kidney disease

Abelmoschus manihot (A.manihot) is a herbaceous flowering medicinal plant and flavonoids are its main pharmacological active ingredients. A.manihot is listed in the 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). A.manihot significantly reduces proteinuria in CKD, and the effectiveness and safety of A.manihot in the treatment including primary glomerulonephropathy and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) have been proved by several randomized controlled trials (RCT). Emerging pharmacological studies have explored the potential active small molecules and the underlying mechanisms in A.manihot. The active constituents of A.manihot are mainly seven flavonoids, including hibifolin, hyperoside, isoquercetin, rutin, quercetin, myricetin, and quercetin-3-O-robinobioside. The mechanisms of action mainly include alleviating renal fibrosis, reducing the inflammatory response and decreasing the apoptosis of podocytes. In this review, we summarize the updated information of active components and molecular mechanisms of A.manihot on chronic kidney disease.

Potential Implications of Hyperoside on Oxidative Stress-Induced Human Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

Hyperoside is a flavonol glycoside mainly found in plants of the genera Hypericum and Crataegus, and also detected in many plant species such as Abelmoschus manihot, Ribes nigrum, Rosa rugosa, Agrostis stolonifera, Apocynum venetum and Nelumbo nucifera. This compound exhibits a multitude of biological functions including anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antioxidative, vascular protective effects and neuroprotective effects, etc. This review summarizes the quantification, original plant, chemical structure and property, structure-activity relationship, pharmacologic effect, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and clinical application of hyperoside, which will be significant for the exploitation for new drug and full utilization of this compound.

Huangkui capsule attenuates diabetic kidney disease through the induction of mitophagy mediated by STING1/PINK1 signaling in tubular cells

BACKGROUND

Mitochondria is critic to tubulopathy, especially in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Huangkui capsule (HKC; a new ethanol extract from the dried corolla of Abelmoschus manihot) has significant clinical effect on DKD. Previous studies have shown that HKC protects kidney by regulating mitochondrial function, but its mechanism is still unclear. The latest research found that the stimulator of interferon genes (STING1) signal pathway is closely related to mitophagy. However, whether HKC induces mitophagy through targeting STING1/PTEN-Induced putative kinase (PINK1) in renal tubular remains elusive.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to clarify the therapeutic effect of HKC on renal tubular mitophagy in DKD and its potential mechanism in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

Forty male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 5 groups: CON group, DKD group, HKC-L (1.0 g/kg/day, by gavage), HKC-H (2.0 g/kg/day), and LST group. Diabetes model was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with intraperitoneal injection of Streptozotocin (STZ). LST (losartan) is used as a positive control drug. Then, the glomeruli, renal tubular lesions, mitochondrial morphology and function of renal tubular cells and mitophagy levels were detected in mice. In addition, a high glucose injury model was established using HK2 human renal tubular cells. Pretreate HK2 cells with HKC or LST and detect mitochondrial function, mitophagy level, and autophagic flux. In addition, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) of STING1 and PINK1 and overexpressing pcDNA3.1 plasmids were transfected into HK-2 cells to validate the mitophagy mechanism regulated by STING1/PINK1 signaling.

RESULTS

The ratio of urinary albumin to creatinine (ACR), fasting blood glucose, body weight in the early DKD mice model was increased, with damage to the glomerulus and renal tubules, mitochondrial structure and dysfunction in the renal tubules, and inhibition of STING1/PINK1 mediated mitophagy. Although the fasting blood glucose, body weight and serum creatinine levels were hardly ameliated, high dose HKC (2.0 g/kg/day) treatment significantly reduced ACR in the DKD mice to some extent, improved renal tubular injury, accurately upregulated STING1/PINK1 signaling mediated mitophagy levels, improved autophagic flux, and restored healthy mitochondrial pools. In vitro, an increase in mitochondrial fragments, fusion to fission, ROS and apoptosis, and a decrease in respiratory function, mtDNA, and membrane potential were observed in HK2 cells exposed to high glucose. HKC treatment significantly protected mitochondrial dynamics and function, which is consistent with in vivo results. Further research has shown that HKC can increase the level of mitophagy mediated by STING1/PINK1 in HK2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that HKC ameliorates renal tubulopathy in DKD and induces mitophagy partly through the up-regulation of the STING1/PINK1 pathway. These findings may provide an innovative therapeutic basis for DKD treatment.

Nuclear factor erythrogen-2 associated factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling is an essential molecular pathway for the anti-aging effect of whey protein in the prefrontal cortex of aging rat model (Histological and Biochemical Study)

Aging is a highly complicated natural process. Brain aging is associated with remarkable neurodegenerative changes and oxidative damage. Whey protein (WP) has been mentioned to have an antioxidant property. Nuclear factor erythrogen-2 associated factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway is an antioxidant defense system. Nrf2 activity declines with age so, its activation could be a promising therapeutic strategy for aging. This study aimed to explore the anti-aging role of WP against D-galactose (D-gal) induced age-related degenerative changes and oxidative damage in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and investigate its underlying mechanisms. Forty adult male rats were divided into 4 groups; control, WP group received WP (28.77 mg/kg/day) by gastric tube on the 4th experimental week; D-gal (model group) received D-gal (300 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally for 8 weeks and D-gal +WP group received WP on the 4th week of D-gal treatment. Specimens from PFC were obtained for biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical and western blot analysis. WP treatment in D-gal +WP group reduced lipid peroxidation, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, decreased advanced glycation end products level and improved the histological and ultrastructural alterations. Moreover, the number of neurons expressed the senescence marker; p21 and percentage area of the astrocytic marker; glial fibrillary acidic protein were significantly reduced. WP also enhanced Nrf2 pathway and its downstream targets; heme oxygenase-1 and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1. In conclusion WP alleviates the D-gal-induced PFC aging through activating Nrf2 pathway, reducing cell senescence and gliosis. So, it may be a potential therapeutic target to retard the aging process.

Qian Yang Yu Yin granule improves hypertensive renal damage: A potential role for TRPC6-CaMKKβ-AMPK-mTOR-mediated autophagy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qian Yang Yu Yin granules (QYYYG) have a long history in the treatment of hypertensive renal damage (HRD) in China. Clinical studies have found that QYYYG stabilizes blood pressure and prevents early renal damage. However, the exact mechanism is not entirely clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the therapeutic effect and further explore the therapeutic mechanism of QYYYG against HRD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The efficacy of QYYYG in treating HRD was assessed in spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR). Renal autophagy and the TRPC6-CaMKKβ-AMPK pathway in rats were evaluated. The regulatory role of QYYYG in angiotensin II (Ang II) induced abnormal autophagy in rat podocytes was determined by detecting autophagy-related proteins, intracellular Ca²⁺ content, and the TRPC6-CaMKKβ-AMPK-mTOR pathway expressions. Finally, we established a stable rat podocyte cell line overexpressing TRPC6 and used the cells to verify the regulatory effects of QYYYG.

RESULTS

QYYYG alleviated HRD and reversed the abnormal expression of autophagy-related genes in the SHR. In vitro, QYYYG protected against Ang II-induced podocyte damage. Furthermore, treatment of podocytes with QYYYG reversed Ang II-induced autophagy and inhibited Ang II-stimulated TRPC6 activation, Ca²⁺ influx and activation CaMKKβ-AMPK pathway. Overexpression of TRPC6 resulted in pronounced activation of CaMKKβ, AMPK, and autophagy induction in rat podocytes, which were significantly attenuated by QYYYG.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggested that QYYYG may exert its HRD protective effects in part by regulating the abnormal autophagy of podocytes through the TRPC6-CaMKKβ-AMPK-mTOR pathway.

Hyperoside attenuates Cd-induced kidney injury via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and ROS/MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro

Cadmium accumulates in the kidney and causes inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been linked to the pathogenesis of inflammation. Hyperoside (HYP) possesses potent nephroprotective properties against of kidney injury. This study aimed to research the effects and related mechanism of HYP on Cd-induced kidney damage. Wide-type and NLRP3^-/- mice were used to determine the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in Cd-induced renal dysfunction. Female C57BL/6 were treated with Cd (50 m,g/L) and HYP (25, 50 mg/kg) for 12 weeks. In vitro experiments, the human renal proximal-tubule epithelial cells (RPTEC/TERT1) were pretreated with HYP (50-200 μM) before exposure to Cd. NLRP3 deficiency attenuated Cd-induced NLRP3 activation, inflammation and kidney injury in mice. HYP treatment significantly alleviated Cd-induced kidney injury by decreasing indexes of kidney function, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines release, decreasing ROS production and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Moreover, treatment with siRNA targeting NLRP3 blocked the anti-inflammatory protective effect of HYP in Cd-treated cells. Additionally, HYP markedly inhibited Cd-induced MAPK/NF-κB pathway stimulation in vitro and in vivo. The findings indicated HYP conferred protection against Cd-induced kidney inflammation via suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome mediated by ROS/MAPK/NF-κB signaling. Our results thus support the notion of developing HYP as promising therapeutic candidate for Cd-induced kidney injury.

Ginseng under forest exerts stronger anti-aging effects compared to garden ginseng probably via regulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, SIRT1/NF-κB pathway and intestinal flora

BACKGROUND

Ginseng is deemed to be an effective anti-aging therapy. Evidence for differences in representative active ingredients and anti-aging effects between garden ginseng (GG) and ginseng under forest (FG) is insufficient.

PURPOSE

The study was designed to systematically analyze the differences in the mechanistic protective effects of GG and FG on aging mice based on their compositional differences.

METHODS

The chemical ingredients in GG and FG were first determined. In vivo, D-galactose-induced aging mice were orally administered GG or FG (400 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks. Behavioral parameters of mice were measured by the radial 8-arm maze, and the changes in body weight and organ indices were recorded. Blood, brain tissue, and feces were collected for biochemical analysis, histopathological staining, Western blotting, and 16S rDNA intestinal flora sequencing, respectively.

RESULTS

The absolute contents of total ginsenosides, polyphenols, crude polysaccharides, starch, and protein in GG were 0.71, 0.68, 1.15, 2.27, and 1.08 folds higher than those in FG, respectively; while FG exhibited a higher relative abundance of representative active ingredients (total ginsenosides, polyphenols, crude polysaccharides, and protein) but lower relative content of starch than GG. GG and FG improved hippocampal lesions and poor weight gain, organ indices, and behavioral indices, and prevented excessive oxidative stress and acetylcholinesterase activity in aging mice. What's more, GG and FG treatment ameliorated excessive apoptosis and inflammatory reaction in the aging brain by modulating apoptosis-related proteins, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and SIRT1/NF-κB pathway. GG and FG also restored the diversity and structure of gut microbiota, up-regulated the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus), and tended to exert key anti-aging effects via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Notably, in vivo experiments confirmed that FG had a stronger anti-aging activity than GG.

CONCLUSION

FG exerts a more powerful anti-aging effect than GG by regulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and the microbe-gut-brain axis, possibly relying on the higher relative abundance of representative active ingredients (total ginsenosides, polyphenols, crude polysaccharides, and protein) in FG.

Therapeutic potential of dietary flavonoid hyperoside against non-communicable diseases: targeting underlying properties of diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a global epidemic with diverse pathogenesis. Among them, oxidative stress and inflammation are the most fundamental co-morbid features. Therefore, multi-targets and multi-pathways therapies with significant anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are potential effective measures for preventing and treating NCDs. The flavonol glycoside compound hyperoside (Hyp) is widely found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, beverages, and medicinal plants and has various health benefits, especially excellent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties targeting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis associated with oxidative stress and inflammation in NCDs and the biological activity and therapeutic potential of Hyp. Our findings reveal that the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities regulated by Hyp are associated with numerous biological mechanisms, including positive regulation of mitochondrial function, apoptosis, autophagy, and higher-level biological damage activities. Hyp is thought to be beneficial against organ injuries, cancer, depression, diabetes, and osteoporosis, and is a potent anti-NCDs agent. Additionally, the sources, bioavailability, pharmacy, and safety of Hyp have been established, highlighting the potential to develop Hyp into dietary supplements and nutraceuticals.

Revealing the Therapeutic Targets and Mechanism of Ginsenoside Rg1 for Liver Damage Related to Anti-Oxidative Stress Using Proteomic Analysis

Ginsenoside Rg1 is an important active substance isolated from the root of ginseng. In previous studies, Rg1 has shown excellent therapeutic effects in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic modulation. However, the therapeutic targets of Rg1 are still unknown. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of Rg1 on oxidative stress-related liver damage. The oxidative stress damage model was achieved by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose (D-gal) for 42 consecutive days in C57BL/6J mice. Rg1 treatment started on Day 16. Body weight, liver weight, degree of hepatic oxidative stress damage, serum lipid levels, and hepatic lipid and glucose metabolism were measured. Proteomics analysis was used to measure liver protein expression. The differential expression proteins were analyzed with bioinformatics. The results showed that Rg1 treatment attenuated liver damage from oxidative stress, reduced hepatic fat accumulation, promoted hepatic glycogen synthesis, and attenuated peripheral blood low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol (CHO), and triglycerides (TG) levels. Proteomic analysis suggested that Rg1 may regulate hepatocyte metabolism through ECM-Receptor, the PI3K-AKT pathway. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) may be the key protein. In conclusion, this study provides an experimental basis for further clarifying the specific mechanism of Rg1 in the treatment of oxidative stress damage-related liver disease.

Molecular mechanisms and physiological functions of autophagy in kidney diseases

Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular progress for the degradation of cytoplasmic contents including micromolecules, misfolded proteins, and damaged organelles that has recently captured attention in kidney diseases. Basal autophagy plays a pivotal role in maintaining cell survival and kidney homeostasis. Accordingly, dysregulation of autophagy has implicated in the pathologies of kidney diseases. In this review, we summarize the multifaceted role of autophagy in kidney aging, maladaptive repair, tubulointerstitial fibrosis and discuss autophagy-related drugs in kidney diseases. However, uncertainty still remains as to the precise mechanisms of autophagy in kidney diseases. Further research is needed to clarify the accurate molecular mechanism of autophagy in kidney diseases, which will facilitate the discovery of a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of kidney diseases.

Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin and its Derivatives in Epilepsy: Evidence from Preclinical Studies

Quercetin is a polyphenolic bioactive compound highly enriched in dietary fruits, vegetables, nuts, and berries. Quercetin and its derivatives like rutin and hyperoside are known for their beneficial effects in various neurological conditions including epilepsy. The clinical studies of quercetin and its derivatives in relation to epilepsy are limited. This review provides the evidence of most recent knowledge of anticonvulsant properties of quercetin and its derivatives on preclinical studies. Additionally, the studies demonstrating antiseizure potential of various plants extracts enriched with quercetin and its derivatives has been included in this review. Herein, we have also discussed neuroprotective effect of these bioactive compound and presented underlying mechanisms responsible for anticonvulsant properties in brief. Finally, limitations of quercetin and its derivatives as antiseizure compounds as well as possible strategies to enhance efficacy have also been discussed.

Hyperoside as a Potential Natural Product Targeting Oxidative Stress in Liver Diseases

Hyperoside (Hyp), also known as quercetin-3-O-galactoside or 3-O-β-D-galactopyranosyl, is a well-known flavonol glycoside that is abundant in various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Hyp has been suggested to exhibit a wide range of biological actions, including cardiovascular, renal, neuroprotective, antifungal, antifibrotic, and anticancer effects. Accumulating evidence supports the pharmacological activities of Hyp in improving liver pathophysiology. Hence, the present literature review aims to summarize preclinical data suggesting the beneficial effects and underlying mechanisms of Hyp. In addition, our study focuses on hepatic antioxidant defense signaling to assess the underlying mechanisms of the biological actions of Hyp that are closely associated with liver diseases. Experimental findings from an up-to-date search showed that Hyp possesses hepatoprotective, antiviral, antisteatotic, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and anticancer activities in cellular and animal models related to liver dysfunction by enhancing antioxidant responses. In particular, hepatocellular antioxidant defense via activation of erythroid-related nuclear factor 2 by Hyp chiefly explains how this compound acts as a therapeutic agent in liver diseases. Thus, this review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of Hyp as a strong antioxidative substance that plays a crucial role in the regulation of various liver disorders during their pathogenesis.

Hyperoside: A Review of Its Structure, Synthesis, Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics and Toxicity

Hyperoside is an active ingredient in plants, such as Hypericum monogynum in Hypericaceae, Crataegus pinnatifida in Rosaceae and Polygonum aviculare in Polygonaceae. Its pharmacologic effects include preventing cancer and protecting the brain, neurons, heart, kidneys, lung, blood vessels, bones, joints and liver, among others. Pharmacokinetic analysis of hyperoside has revealed that it mainly accumulates in the kidney. However, long-term application of high-dose hyperoside should be avoided in clinical practice because of its renal toxicity. This review summarises the structure, synthesis, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of hyperoside.

Cinnamaldehyde attenuates kidney senescence and injury through PI3K/Akt pathway-mediated autophagy via downregulating miR-155

Background

To prove the internal connection, we deciphered the effect of cinnamaldehyde on kidney senescence through establishing animal and cell models.

Methods

In vivo, a rat senescence model was constructed using D-galactose (D-gal), and the modeled rats were further treated with cinnamaldehyde. In vitro, rat renal tubular epithelial cells (NRK-52E) were transfected with miR-155 mimic or inhibitor and then treated with cinnamaldehyde, D-gal or PI3K inhibitor (LY294002). The serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) of the rats were measured by an automatic biochemical analyzer. Pathological changes of kidney were determined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The senescence and viability of NRK-52E cells were assessed by SA-β-gal staining and CCK-8 assay, respectively. The levels of miR-155, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, LC3B (LC3-II and LC3-I) and Beclin1 were detected by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, or western blot.

Results

D-gal elevated the levels of BUN, Scr and miR-155 in the kidney, induced the renal pathological damage, inhibited the cell viability, increased the numbers of SA-β-gal-, LC3B- and Beclin1-positive cells and upregulated the levels of LC3-II/LC3-I and Beclin1 both in the kidney and cells. Cinnamaldehyde reversed D-gal-induced effects on the kidney and cells, and moreover, the cinnamaldehyde-induced anti-D-gal effects on cells could be suppressed by miR-155 mimic but promoted by miR-155 inhibitor. LY294002 potentiated D-gal-induced effects, and reversed cinnamaldehyde- and miR-155 inhibitor-caused impacts on the PI3K/Akt pathway and LC3-II/LC3-I level in D-gal-induced cells.

Conclusion

Cinnamaldehyde attenuates kidney senescence and injury through PI3K/Akt pathway-mediated autophagy via downregulating miR-155.

Growth factors-based platelet lysate rejuvenates skin against ageing through NF-κB signalling pathway: In vitro and in vivo mechanistic and clinical studies

Introduction

Platelets benefit tissue regeneration by secreting growth factors, and platelet products, for example, platelet lysate (PL), have been clinically applied for tissue rejuvenation. To determine the anti‐ageing efficacy and mechanism of human PL (hPL) on skin, this study conducted clinical retrospective analysis, nude mice‐based in vivo study and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs)‐based in vitro study.

Methods

Flow cytometry was employed for quality control of hPL, and ELISA was used for quantification of growth factors (EGF, IGF‐1, PDGF and TGF‐β) in hPL. After d‐galactose modelling, skin texture grading, histopathological observation, immunofluorescence analysis and oxidative stress assays were conducted on nude mice, while SA‐β‐gal staining, CCK‐8 and wound healing assays were conducted on HDFs. qPCR and western blot were conducted to clarify hPL's mechanism.

Results

The clinical retrospective data showed that hPL obviously rejuvenated human skin appearances without adverse events. The animal data showed that hPL exerted rejuvenative effects on skin, and the cellular data showed that hPL significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of HDFs and suppressed senescence‐associated secretory protein secretion and senescence state of senescent HDFs by suppressing NF‐κB pathway. The NF‐κB‐dependent mechanism was verified positively by using P65 siRNA and negatively by using prostratin. Furthermore, EGF, IGF‐1, PDGF and TGF‐β were found as the main ingredients in hPL, which contributed to the efficacy and mechanism of hPL.

Conclusion

This study provided novel knowledge of hPL, making it ideal for skin rejuvenation.

Bradykinin postconditioning protects rat hippocampal neurons after restoration of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest via activation of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Bradykinin (BK) is an active component of the kallikrein-kinin system that has been shown to have cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. We previously showed that BK postconditioning strongly protects rat hippocampal neurons upon restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after cardiac arrest. However, the precise mechanism underlying this process remains poorly understood. In this study, we treated a rat model of ROSC after cardiac arrest (induced by asphyxiation) with 150 μg/kg BK via intraperitoneal injection 48 hours after ROSC following cardiac arrest. We found that BK postconditioning effectively promoted the recovery of rat neurological function after ROSC following cardiac arrest, increased the amount of autophagosomes in the hippocampal tissue, inhibited neuronal cell apoptosis, up-regulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3 and NBR1 and down-regulated p62, inhibited the expression of the brain injury marker S100β and apoptosis-related protein caspase-3, and affected the expression of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/mechanistic target of rapamycin pathway-related proteins. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase inhibitor compound C clearly inhibited BK-mediated activation of autophagy in rats after ROSC following cardiac arrest, which aggravated the injury caused by ROSC. The mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor rapamycin enhanced the protective effects of BK by stimulating autophagy. Our findings suggest that BK postconditioning protects against injury caused by ROSC through activating the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/mechanistic target of the rapamycin pathway.

Extract of Corallodiscus flabellata attenuates renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice via the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Fibrosis is one of the most common pathological features of the aging process of the kidney, and fibrosis in aging kidneys also aggravates the process of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Corallodiscus flabellata B. L. Burtt (C. flabellata, CF) is a commonly used botanical drug in Chinese folklore. However, few studies have reported its pharmacological effects. This study aimed to explore the effect of CF ethanol extract on renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice and identify potentially active compounds.

METHODS

Senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) were used as animal models, and different doses of CF were given by gavage for one month. To observe the degree of renal aging in mice using β-galactosidase staining. Masson staining and the expression levels of Col-I, α-SMA, and FN were used to evaluate the renal fibrosis in mice. The protein expression levels of Nrf2 pathway and Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway in the kidney were measured. And β-galactosidase (β-gal) induced NRK-52E cells as an in vitro model to screen the active components of CF.

RESULTS

The CF ethanol extract significantly inhibited the activity of renal β-galactosidase and the expression levels of Col-I, α-SMA, and FN in SAMP8 mice, and improved Masson staining in SAMP8 mice. CF remarkably reduced urinary protein, creatinine, urea nitrogen and serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in SAMP8 mice, and significantly increased the levels of SOD and GSH-Px. Moreover, CF activated the Nrf2 pathway and blocked the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway in the kidneys of mice. Besides, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol (SDC-0-14, 16) and (3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol-8-O-[4-O-trans-caffeoyl-β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→3)-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→6)]-β-D-glucopyranoside (SDC-1-8) were isolated from CF, which reduced the senescence of NRK-52E cells, and maybe the active ingredients of CF playing the anti-aging role.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experiments illuminated that CF ethanol extract may ameliorate renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice via the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway. And SDC-0-14,16 and SDC-1-8 may be the material basis for CF to exert anti-renal senescence-related effects.

Role of AMPK mediated pathways in autophagy and aging

AMPK is an important kinase regulating energy homeostasis and also a key protein involved in a variety of signal transduction pathways. It plays a vitally regulatory role in cellular senescence. Activation of AMPK can delay or block the aging process, which is of great significance in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and other aging related diseases, and provides a potential target for new indications such as Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, AMPK signaling pathway plays an important role in aging research. The in-depth study of AMPK activators will provide more new directions for the treatment of age-related maladies and the development of innovative drugs. Autophagy is a process that engulfs and degrades own cytoplasm or organelles. Thereby, meeting the metabolic demands and updating certain organelles of the cell has become a hotspot in the field of anti-aging in recent years. AMPK plays an important role between autophagy and senescence. In our review, the relationship among AMPK signaling, autophagy and aging will be clarified through the interaction between AMPK and mTOR, ULK1, FOXO, p53, SIRT1, and NF -κB.

Renal Cellular Autophagy in Obesity: Boon or Bane?

Obesity is a growing human health concern worldwide and imposes adverse effects on many cell types and organ systems, including the kidneys. Obesity interferes with various cellular processes by increasing lipid accumulation and oxidation, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Autophagy is an important cellular process to maintain hemostasis and preserve resources, but might be altered in obesity. Interestingly, experimental studies have shown either an increase or a decrease in the rate of autophagy, and accumulation of byproducts and mediators of this cascade in kidneys of obese individuals. Hence, whether autophagy is beneficial or detrimental under these conditions remains unresolved. This review summarizes emerging evidence linking superfluous fat accumulation to alterations in autophagy. Elucidating the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis and complications of obesity in the kidney might help in the identification of therapeutic targets to prevent or delay the development of chronic kidney disease in obese subjects. Autophagy, kidney, obesity, lipids.

Ginsenoside Rg1 prevents bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell senescence via NRF2 and PI3K/Akt signaling

Senescence limits the characteristics and functionality of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), thereby severely restricting their application in tissue engineering. Here, we investigated ways to prevent MSCs from entering a state of senescence. We found that Rg1, an extract of natural ginseng, can reduce the expression of senescence markers in cultured cells in vitro and in various tissues in vivo. Simultaneously, ginsenoside Rg1 improved the antioxidant capacity of cells, and the senescence-inhibiting and antioxidant effect of Rg1 were associated with the activation of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway. Furthermore, Rg1 may activate the NRF2 pathway by increasing the interaction between P62 and KEAP1through P62 upregulation and AKT activation. Taken together, our findings indicate that Rg1 prevents cell senescence via NRF2 and AKT, and activation of AKT or NRF2 may thus represent therapeutic targets for preventing cell senescence.

Adiponectin inhibits D‑gal‑induced cardiomyocyte senescence via AdipoR1/APPL1

The aim of the present study was to examine whether adiponectin could inhibit cardiomyocyte senescence induced by D‑galactose (D‑gal), and whether it functioned via the adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1)/adaptor protein phosphotyrosine interacting with PH domain and leucine zipper 1 (APPL1) signaling pathway. For this purpose, the expression levels of adiponectin, AdipoR1 and APPL1 in mouse plasma and myocardial tissues were detected via reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR (RT‑qPCR) and western blotting. An adiponectin‑overexpression plasmid was transfected into D‑gal‑treated H9c2 cells prior to the detection of AdipoR1 and APPL1 expression by RT‑qPCR. Senescence‑associated β‑galactose staining was then performed to observe cellular senescence following the transfection of small interfering RNAs (si) targeting AdipoR1 and APPL1 into D‑gal‑treated H9c2 cells overexpressing adiponectin. Commercial kits were used to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the different groups. The expression levels of heme oxygenase (HO)‑1 and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) were examined by western blot analysis. The results revealed that the expression levels of adiponectin, AdipoR1 and APPL1 were downregulated in aged mouse plasma, myocardial tissues and D‑gal‑treated cardiomyocytes. It was also observed that AdipoR1 and APPL1 expression levels were significantly upregulated following the overexpression of adiponectin into D‑gal‑treated cardiomyocytes. Moreover, adiponectin overexpression reduced cellular senescence induced by D‑gal and the expression of p16 and p21; these effects were reversed following transfection with si‑AdipoR1 and si‑APPL1. Adiponectin also downregulated the levels of ROS and MDA in D‑gal‑treated H9c2 cells via AdipoR1/APPL1. Additionally, the release of HO‑11/HMGB1 was affected by adiponectin via AdipoR1/APPL1, and adiponectin/AdipoR1/APPL1 suppressed ROS production via HO‑1/HMGB1. On the whole, the present study demonstrated that adiponectin played an inhibitory role in cardiomyocyte senescence via the AdioR1/APPL1 signaling pathway and inhibited the levels of oxidative stress in senescent cardiomyocytes via the HO‑1/HMGB1 signaling pathway.

Inhibition of Renal Tubular Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced Apoptosis with Shenkang Injection Attenuates Diabetic Tubulopathy

Background: The proximal renal tubule plays a critical role in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) progression. Early glomerular disease in DKD triggers a cascade of injuries resulting in renal tubulointerstitial disease. These pathophysiological responses are collectively described as diabetic tubulopathy (DT). Thus, therapeutic strategies targeting DT hold significant promise for early DKD treatment. Shenkang injection (SKI) has been widely used to treat renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis in patients with chronic kidney disease in China. However, it is still unknown whether SKI can alleviate DT. We designed a series of experiments to investigate the beneficial effects of SKI in DT and the mechanisms that are responsible for its effect on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced apoptosis in DT.

Methods: The modified DKD rat models were induced by uni-nephrectomy, streptozotocin intraperitoneal injection, and a high-fat diet. Following the induction of renal injury, these animals received either SKI, rosiglitazone (ROS), or vehicle, for 42 days. For in vitro research, we exposed NRK-52E cells to high glucose (HG) and 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) with or without SKI or ROS. Changes in parameters related to renal tubular injury and EMT were analyzed in vivo. Changes in the proportion of apoptotic renal tubular cells and ER stress, and the signaling pathways involved in these changes, were analyzed both in vivo and in vitro.

Results: SKI and ROS improved the general condition, the renal morphological appearance and the key biochemical parameters, and attenuated renal injury and EMT in the rat model of DKD. In addition, SKI and ROS alleviated apoptosis, inhibited ER stress, and suppressed PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP signaling pathway activation both in vivo and in vitro. Notably, our data showed that the regulatory in vitro effects of SKI on PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP signaling were similar to those of 4-PBA, a specific inhibitor of ER stress.

Conclusion: This study confirmed that SKI can alleviate DT in a similar manner as ROS, and SKI achieves this effect by inhibiting EMT and ER stress-induced apoptosis. Our findings thereby provide novel information relating to the clinical value of SKI in the treatment of DT.

Astragaloside IV prevents memory impairment in D-galactose-induced aging rats via the AGEs/RAGE/ NF-κB axis

BACKGROUND

We investigated the effects of astragaloside IV (AS-IV) on memory function in aging rats mimicked by D-galactose administration and explored the potential molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Twenty-seven male rats were randomly divided into control group (N = 9), model group (N = 9), and AS-IV treated group (N = 9). Aging model was stimulated by D-galactose (400 mg/kg/d, i.p., dissolved in saline) for 8 weeks in rats. The general status of the rats was observed weekly. Learning and memory function was determined using the eight-arm radical maze and step-down test. Pathological changes in the hippocampal CA1 region were determined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Organ indexes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malonaldehyde (MDA) content in the serum were measured. Expression of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), receptor for AGEs (RAGE), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction or western blotting.

RESULTS

AS-IV improved the general status of the aging rats induced by D-galactose, prevented the impairment of memory function, organ indexes, and the pathological damage of the hippocampus. From the prospective of oxidative stress, AS-IV increased sera SOD activity and decreased MDA content. Additionally, AS-IV also reduced the inflammatory response by reducing hippocampal IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression. Importantly, AS-IV prevented D-galactose-induced expression of AGEs, RAGE and NF-κB in the hippocampus.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV could prevent D-galactose-induced aging and memory impairment in rats, likely via regulation of inflammatory response, which was modulated by AGEs/RAGE/NF-κB axis.

The p53/p21/p16 and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways are involved in the ameliorative effects of maltol on D-galactose-induced liver and kidney aging and injury

Successive evidence has established that maltol, a flavor-enhancing agent, could provide resistance to oxidative stress-induced tissue injury in various animal models though its benefits for aging-induced liver and kidney injuries are still undetermined. In the present work, for demonstrating maltol's ameliorative effect and probable mechanism against aging-induced liver and kidney injuries, D-galactose (D-Gal)-induced animal in vivo and HEK293 cells in vitro models were established and results demonstrated that long-term D-Gal treatment increases the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in liver and kidney tissues, mitigates cell viability, and arrests the cycle. Interestingly, 4-weeks maltol treatment at 50 and 100 mg/kg activated aging-associated proteins including p53, p21, and p16 followed by inhibiting malondialdehyde (MDA)'s over-production and increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, decreases in cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1) and 4-hydroxydecene (4-HNE)'s immunofluorescence expression levels are confirmed. Furthermore, maltol improved oxidative stress injury by activating the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway. In conclusion, the purpose of the present study was to estimate the mechanistic insights into maltol's role as an antioxidant in liver and kidney cell senescence and injury, which will reflect potential of therapeutic strategy for antiaging and aging-related disease treatment.

Hyperoside relieves particulate matter-induced lung injury by inhibiting AMPK/mTOR-mediated autophagy deregulation

Autophagy-mediated cell death plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of PMs-induced lung injury. Hyperoside (Hyp), a flavonoid glycosides, is known to exert protective effects on many diseases by inhibiting autophagic activity. The current study aimed to explore the protective effect and mechanism of Hyp against PMs-induced lung injury in PM2.5 challenged Beas-2b cells in vitro and BALB/C mice in vivo. In vitro, we found that the organic solvent-extractable fraction of SRM1649b (O-PMs) caused more severe cytotoxicity in Beas-2b cells than the water solvent-extractable fraction of SRM1649b (W-PMs). O-PMs treatment dose-dependently upregulated the expression of autophagy markers (beclin-1, p62, atg3 and LC3II) and apoptotic proteins. This cytotoxicity of O-PMs was attenuated by Hyp pretreatment in parallel with downregulation of the expression of autophagy markers, apoptotic proteins, and p-AMPK and upregulation of p-mTOR expression. Notably, the therapeutic effect of Hyp was attenuated by pretreated with AICAR (an AMPK inducer), but enhanced by CC and 3-MA treatment. In vivo, Hyp reduced pathological lung injury and decreased the levels of PMs-induced inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6), and the number of total cells in the BALF by inhibiting AMPK/mTOR signaling. Furthermore, cotreatment with AICAR (500 mg/kg) reduced but did not abrogate the pulmonary protective effect of Hyp. These findings indicate that Hyp protects against PMs-induced lung injury by suppressing autophagy deregulation and apoptosis through regulation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway.

Hyperoside ameliorates diabetic nephropathy induced by STZ via targeting the miR-499-5p/APC axis

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious complication of diabetes. Hyperoside has been widely reported to ameliorate diabetes-associated disease. The current study is designed to explore the mechanism of hyperoside in diabetic nephropathy. In the present study, high glucose was used to treat podocytes. Diabetic nephropathy mice models were established by high-fat feeding followed by multiple low dose injections of streptozocin. Western blot analysis was conducted for detection of extracellular matrix accumulation, inflammatory response and cell apoptosis. We found out that hyperoside improved high glucose-induced cell injury. Additionally, hyperoside prevented mice with diabetic nephropathy from diabetic symptoms and renal dysfunction. Mechanistically, hyperoside inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of APC. MiR-499-5p was found to be an upstream negative mediator of APC, and hyperoside induced the upregulation of miR-499-5p. MiR-499-5p bound with the 3' untranslated region of APC to inhibit its expression. Finally, rescue assays revealed that the suppressive effects of miR-499-5p overexpression on renal dysfunction were rescued by upregulation of APC in mice with diabetic nephropathy. In conclusion, these findings indicated that hyperoside ameliorates diabetic nephropathy via targeting the miR-499-5p/APC axis, suggesting that hyperoside may offer a potential tactic for diabetic nephropathy treatment.

Antioxidant Effect of Polygonatum sibiricum Polysaccharides in D-Galactose-Induced Heart Aging Mice

Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides (PSP), the extract of Polygonatum sibiricum, are demonstrated to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. A recent study reported that PSP alleviated the aging of the kidney and meninges. However, the effect of PSP on heart aging remains unclear. The present study is aimed at investigating the protection of PSP on D-galactose- (D-gal-) induced heart aging. Results showed that irregularly arranged cardiac muscle fibers were observed in heart tissues of D-gal-treated mice, and the levels of cardiac troponin T (cTnT), creatine kinase (CK), p21, and p53 were increased after D-gal treatment. D-gal-induced heart aging and injury can be attenuated by oral administration of PSP. Moreover, PSP also decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the hearts of D-gal-treated mice. DNA damages and lipid peroxidation induced by oxidative stress were also inhibited by PSP as indicated by reduced levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE). Collectively, PSP attenuated D-gal-induced heart aging via inhibiting oxidative stress, suggesting that PSP might serve as a potential effective Chinese herbal active constituent for antiaging therapy.

Key Signaling Pathways in Aging and Potential Interventions for Healthy Aging

Aging is a fundamental biological process accompanied by a general decline in tissue function. Indeed, as the lifespan increases, age-related dysfunction, such as cognitive impairment or dementia, will become a growing public health issue. Aging is also a great risk factor for many age-related diseases. Nowadays, people want not only to live longer but also healthier. Therefore, there is a critical need in understanding the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating aging that will allow us to modify the aging process for healthy aging and alleviate age-related disease. Here, we reviewed the recent breakthroughs in the mechanistic understanding of biological aging, focusing on the adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (AMPK), Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, which are currently considered critical for aging. We also discussed how these proteins and pathways may potentially interact with each other to regulate aging. We further described how the knowledge of these pathways may lead to new interventions for antiaging and against age-related disease.

Fucoidan Ameliorates Renal Injury-Related Calcium-Phosphorus Metabolic Disorder and Bone Abnormality in the CKD-MBD Model Rats by Targeting FGF23-Klotho Signaling Axis

Background: Recently, chronic kidney disease (CKD)-mineral and bone disorder (MBD) has become one of common complications occurring in CKD patients. Therefore, development of a new treatment for CKD-MBD is very important in the clinic. In China, Fucoidan (FPS), a natural compound of Laminaria japonica has been frequently used to improve renal dysfunction in CKD. However, it remains elusive whether FPS can ameliorate CKD-MBD. FGF23-Klotho signaling axis is reported to be useful for regulating mineral and bone metabolic disorder in CKD-MBD. This study thereby aimed to clarify therapeutic effects of FPS in the CKD-MBD model rats and its underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro, compared to Calcitriol (CTR). Methods: All male rats were divided into four groups: Sham, CKD-MBD, FPS and CTR. The CKD-MBD rat models were induced by adenine administration and uninephrectomy, and received either FPS or CTR or vehicle after induction of renal injury for 21 days. The changes in parameters related to renal dysfunction and renal tubulointerstitial damage, calcium-phosphorus metabolic disorder and bone lesion were analyzed, respectively. Furthermore, at sacrifice, the kidneys and bone were isolated for histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. In vitro, the murine NRK-52E cells were used to investigate regulative actions of FPS or CTR on FGF23-Klotho signaling axis, ERK1/2-SGK1-NHERF-1-NaPi-2a pathway and Klotho deficiency. Results: Using the modified CKD-MBD rat model and the cultured NRK-52E cells, we indicated that FPS and CTR alleviated renal dysfunction and renal tubulointerstitial damage, improved calcium-phosphorus metabolic disorder and bone lesion, and regulated FGF23-Klotho signaling axis and ERK1/2-SGK1-NHERF-1-NaPi-2a pathway in the kidney. In addition, using the shRNA-Klotho plasmid-transfected cells, we also detected, FPS accurately activated ERK1/2-SGK1-NHERF-1-NaPi-2a pathway through Klotho loss reversal. Conclusion: In this study, we emphatically demonstrated that FPS, a natural anti-renal dysfunction drug, similar to CTR, improves renal injury-related calcium-phosphorus metabolic disorder and bone abnormality in the CKD-MBD model rats. More importantly, we firstly found that beneficial effects in vivo and in vitro of FPS on phosphorus reabsorption are closely associated with regulation of FGF23-Klotho signaling axis and ERK1/2-SGK1-NHERF-1-NaPi-2a pathway in the kidney. This study provided pharmacological evidences that FPS directly contributes to the treatment of CKD-MBD.

Alginate Oligosaccharide Ameliorates D-Galactose-Induced Kidney Aging in Mice through Activation of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Aging is an independent risk factor for the development of age-related progressive kidney injury. As a part of the aging process, kidney aging has been indicated to be associated with oxidative stress-induced damage. Ameliorating oxidative damage is therefore considered a promising strategy for delaying kidney aging. Alginate oligosaccharide (AOS) has been reported to have a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. However, no studies have focused on the role of AOS in delaying the kidney aging process. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential effects of AOS on kidney aging and its possible mechanisms. Subcutaneous injection of D-galactose (D-gal) (200 mg·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) in C57BL/6J mice for 8 weeks was used to establish the aging model. AOS (200 mg·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) was administered via oral gavage for the last four weeks. As a result, AOS inhibited the D-gal-induced upregulation of aging markers and significantly improved the kidney index and kidney function of D-gal-induced mice. In addition, AOS ameliorated the degree of tissue damage and fibrosis in the aging kidney. To further explore the potential mechanisms by which AOS attenuates the kidney aging process, the associated oxidative stress-induced damage was analyzed in depth. The data showed that AOS upregulated the expression of Klotho and decreased malondialdehyde levels by increasing the expression of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, our results suggested that AOS activated the nuclear factor erythrogen-2 associated factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway by promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation in aging mice and upregulated the downstream expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that AOS is a promising agent for attenuating kidney aging, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are related to the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Hyperoside from Z. bungeanum leaves restores insulin secretion and mitochondrial function by regulating pancreatic cellular redox status in diabetic mice

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and insufficient insulin secretion caused by pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activation of caspases in mitochondria inhibit insulin secretion and promote apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells. Studies have demonstrated that positive correlation between the consumption of flavonoid-rich diets and diabetes prevention. Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaves have been used as food for a long time and are rich in flavonoids with strong radical scavenging abilities. We and others have identified hyperoside as the major bioactive component of total flavonoids exacted from Zanthoxylum bungeanum leaves. We hypothesize that hyperoside from Z. bungeanum leaves (HZL) may prevent T2DM by inhibiting excessive ROS formation and reducing pancreatic β-cells apoptosis. In current study, HZL was administered to high fat diet and alloxan-induced diabetic mice, and appeared to significantly ameliorate the damage of glucose metabolism and insulin secretion as well as restore the structural integrity of pancreas, and inhibit β-cell apoptosis. Pancreatic antioxidant enzyme activities were also restored by HZL supplementation. In cultured MIN6 cells, which produce and secret insulin, HZL treatment restored insulin secretion through inhibiting the expression of TXNIP and lowering intracellular calcium concentration. These observations mechanistically linked the beneficial effects of HZL with the regulation on cellular redox status and mitochondrial function. Taken together, our findings suggest that HZL has protective effect on pancreatic β-cell function and may be a beneficial nutritional supplementation for prevention and adjuvant therapy of T2DM.

Fisetin Alleviated Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis Partly by Rescuing Alveolar Epithelial Cells From Senescence

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an aging-associated disease, satisfactory therapies are not yet available. Accelerated senescence of alveolar epithelial cells plays an important part in Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis. Fisetin (FIS) is a natural non-toxic flavonoid, which has many pharmacological functions. However, the role of FIS in pulmonary fibrosis has not been established. In this study, we found that FIS treatment apparently alleviated BLM-induced weight loss, inflammatory cells infiltration, inflammatory factors expression, collagen deposition and alveolar epithelial cell senescence, along with AMPK activation and the down regulation of NF-κB and TGF-β/Smad3 in vivo. In vitro, FIS administration significantly inhibited the senescence of alveolar epithelial cells and senescence-associated secretory phenotype, followed by reduced transdifferentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts as well as collagen deposition in fibroblasts, which was blocked by an AMPK inhibitor, Compound C. Together, these results suggest that FIS can alleviate the development of BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis, which is related to the inhibition of TGF-β/Smad3 signaling and the reduction of alveolar epithelium cell senescence by regulating AMPK/NF-κB signaling pathway. FIS may be a promising candidate for patients with pulmonary fibrosis.

Ganoderma lucidum Rhodiola compound preparation prevent D-galactose-induced immune impairment and oxidative stress in aging rat model

Aging is an irreversible process. This research aims to study the anti-aging effects of GRCP, a compound preparation made by Ganoderma lucidum and Rhodiola rosen, in aging rats. Rats were subcutaneously injected with 400 mg/kg of D-galactose daily, and aging could be induced after 8 weeks. The aging rats were treated with GRCP. This experiment was divided into 6 groups. Rats were randomly divided into the model group, positive control group, low-dose GRCP group (25 mg/kg body weight), medium-dose GRCP group (50 mg/kg body weight), and high-dose GRCP group (100 mg/kg body weight), healthy and normal rats were used as blank controls. After the end, the results show that the use of GRCP at a dose of 100 mg/kg is the best treatment for improving aging rats. Rats gained weight, spleen and thymus indexes, and splenocyte proliferation improved, and inflammatory cytokine levels decreased. Besides, biochemical indicators show that GRCP can improve the antioxidant enzyme activity and reduce the content of lipofuscin and TGF-β in aging rats (P < 0.05). GRCP can also inhibit the activation of the MyD88/NF-κB pathway in rat hippocampus. These results seem to suggest that GRCP can be used as a potential natural supplement or functional food to prevent aging.

Total Flavones of Abelmoschus manihot Remodels Gut Microbiota and Inhibits Microinflammation in Chronic Renal Failure Progression by Targeting Autophagy-Mediated Macrophage Polarization

Background

Recently, progression of chronic renal failure (CRF) has been closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal metabolite-derived microinflammation. In China, total flavones of Abelmoschus manihot (TFA), a component of Abelmoschus manihot, has been widely used to delay CRF progression in clinics for the past two decades. However, the overall therapeutic mechanisms remain obscure. In this study, we designed experiments to investigate the renoprotective effects of TFA in CRF progression and its underlying mechanisms involved in gut microbiota and microinflammation, compared with febuxostat (FEB), a potent non-purine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase.

Methods

In vivo, the CRF rat models were induced by uninephrectomy, potassium oxonate, and proinflammatory diet, and received either TFA suspension, FEB, or vehicle after modeling for 28 days. In vitro, the RAW 264.7 cells were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without TFA or FEB. Changes in parameters related to renal injury, gut microbiota dysbiosis, gut-derived metabolites, and microinflammation were analyzed in vivo. Changes in macrophage polarization and autophagy and its related signaling were analyzed both in vivo and in vitro.

Results

For the modified CRF model rats, the administration of TFA and FEB improved renal injury, including renal dysfunction and renal tubulointerstitial lesions; remodeled gut microbiota dysbiosis, including decreased Bacteroidales and Lactobacillales and increased Erysipelotrichales; regulated gut-derived metabolites, including d-amino acid oxidase, serine racemase, d-serine, and l-serine; inhibited microinflammation, including interleukin 1β (IL1β), tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor-κB; and modulated macrophage polarization, including markers of M1/M2 macrophages. More importantly, TFA and FEB reversed the expression of beclin1 (BECN1) and phosphorylation of p62 protein and light chain 3 (LC3) conversion in the kidneys by activating the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase-sirtuin 1 (AMPK-SIRT1) signaling. Further, TFA and FEB have similar effects on macrophage polarization and autophagy and its related signaling in vitro.

Conclusion

In this study, we demonstrated that TFA, similar to FEB, exerts its renoprotective effects partially by therapeutically remodeling gut microbiota dysbiosis and inhibiting intestinal metabolite-derived microinflammation. This is achieved by adjusting autophagy-mediated macrophage polarization through AMPK-SIRT1 signaling. These findings provide more accurate information on the role of TFA in delaying CRF progression.

Hyperoside alleviates epilepsy-induced neuronal damage by enhancing antioxidant levels and reducing autophagy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hypericum perforatum L. (genus Hypericum, family Hypericaceae), a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, is believed to confer a wide range of benefits, including fever reduction, detoxification, calming, and pain relief via decoctions of its stems and leaves. Hyperoside (HYP), a natural compound extracted from Hypericum perforatum L., has been shown to demonstrate a wide array of bioactivities including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of HYP on epilepsy-induced neuronal damage in mice and the associated regulatory factors.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study examined the potential therapeutic use of HYP for the treatment of neuronal damage in a mouse model of epilepsy and explored the relationships of the potential neuroprotective effects of HYP pretreatment with antioxidant levels and autophagy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ICR mice were randomly divided into six groups: sham group, sham-HYP group, KA group, KA-HYP group, KA-HYP-DDC group and KA-CQ group. Immunohistochemical staining was used to assess changes in NeuN, IBA-1, and GFAP expression in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. Immunofluorescence staining was used to assess the effects of HYP on the number of autophagosomes that accumulated in neurons in the hippocampal CA3 region. The levels of SOD1, SOD2, LC3I/II, Beclin1, and PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling-related proteins were detected by Western blot.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with 50 mg/kg HYP protected against epilepsy-induced neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA3 region. Additionally, HYP enhanced antioxidant levels and reduced the levels of autophagy-related proteins via the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways.

CONCLUSION

HYP protected the hippocampal CA3 region against epilepsy-induced neuronal damage via enhancing antioxidant levels and reducing autophagy. The mechanism of action may be related to the maintenance of antioxidant levels and the suppression of autophagy via the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways.

The improvement effect of gastrodin on LPS/GalN-induced fulminant hepatitis via inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis and restoring autophagy

Fulminant hepatitis (FH), characterized by overwhelmed inflammation and massive hepatocyte apoptosis, is a life-threatening and high mortality rate. Gastrodin (GTD), a phenolic glucoside extracted from Gastrodiaelata Blume, exerts anti-apoptosis, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate whether GTD treatment could alleviate lipopolysaccharide and d-galactosamine (LPS/GalN)-induced FH in mice and its potential mechanisms. These data suggested that GTD treatment remarkably protected against LPS/GalN-induced FH by enhancing the survival rate of mice, reducing ALT and AST levels, attenuating histopathological changes, and suppressing interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α secretion. In addition, GTD treatment relieved hepatic apoptosis by the regulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), P53 and caspase-3/9. Furthermore, GTD treatment could significantly inhibit inflammation-related signaling pathways activated by LPS/GalN, including the suppression of nucleotide-binding domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation. Importantly, GTD treatment effectively restored but not induced LPS/GalN-reduced the expression of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) phosphorylation, as well as the level of pro-autophagy proteins. Taken together, our investigation indicated that GTD played an essential role in liver protection by relieving hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammation reaction, which may be closely involved in the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB activation, regulation of apoptosis-related proteins expression, and the recovery of AMPK/ACC/autophagy.

Improvement Effect of Lotus Leaf Flavonoids on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury in Mice

In this study, the effect of lotus leaf flavonoids (LLF) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in mice was studied. CCl4 was injected intraperitoneally to induce liver injury in Kunming mice. Mice were treated with LLF by gavage, and the mRNA expression levels in serum and liver were detected. Compared with the model group, LLF significantly reduced the liver index and serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels in mice with CCl4-induced liver injury. Pathological observation showed that LLF effectively reduced morphological incompleteness and hepatocyte necrosis in CCl4-treated liver tissue. The result of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) indicated that LLF significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression levels of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), and catalase (CAT) and down- regulated the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (p < 0.05). Thus, LLF is an active ingredient that ameliorates liver injury, and it has good application prospect.

A Modified Formulation of Sutaehwan Ameliorates Menopausal Anxiety, Depression and Heart Hypertrophy in the VCD-Induced Menopausal Mouse Model

Sutaehwan (STH) has been used in Korean medicine for the treatment of abortus habitualis such as fetal restlessness in the uterus. Previously, we reported that a modified formulation of STH, Sutaehwan-Gami, has phytoestrogen-like properties in an ovariectomized menopausal rat model. However, the therapeutic effects of STH and the precise mechanisms by which STH affects various menopausal symptoms remain poorly understood. The current study was designed to explore the effects of a modified form of STH on menopausal anxiety, depression and heart hypertrophy and its mechanisms in 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-induced menopausal mouse models. VCD-induced menopausal model mice were fed a modified form of STH, which contained water extract of 3 herbs (called STH_KP17001) at a dose of 100 or 300 mg/kg/d or as a positive control, estradiol at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg/d with standard mouse pellets for 13 weeks. The results show that STH_KP17001 significantly restored the VCD-induced weight reduction of uterine and ovary through the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT) in the uterus and ovary. Moreover, STH_KP17001 showed slight proliferative effects and estrogen receptor α phosphorylation in MCF-7 cells. Treatment with STH_KP17001 reversed VCD-induced anxiety and depression through AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the cerebral cortex, while improving heart hypertrophy through inactivation of inhibitor of kappaB α (IκBα) in the heart. The results indicate that STH_KP17001 improves menopause-induced anxiety, depression and heart hypertrophy, implying its protective role for the management of menopausal symptoms.