Antioxidant anti-inflammatory treatment in type 2 diabetes

Artesunate improves glucose and lipid metabolism in db/db mice by regulating the metabolic profile and the MAPK/PI3K/Akt signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia. Chronic metabolic abnormalities and long-term hyperglycaemia may result in a wide range of acute and chronic consequences. Previous studies have demonstrated that artesunate(ART) has antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, and other beneficial effects, but the specific regulatory mechanism is not completely clear.

AIM

This study investigated the effects of ART on metabolic disorders in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) model db/db mice and explored the underlying mechanisms involved.

METHODS

C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice were used to identify the targets and molecular mechanism of ART. Metabolomic methods were used to evaluate the efficacy of ART in improving T2DM-related metabolic disorders. Network pharmacology and transcriptomic sequencing were used to analyse the targets and pathways of ART in T2DM. Finally, molecular biology experiments were performed to verify the key targets and pathways selected by network pharmacology and transcriptomic analyses.

RESULTS

After a 7-week ART intervention (160 mg/kg), the glucose and lipid metabolism levels of the db/db mice improved. Additionally, the oxidative stress indices, namely, the MDA and SOD levels, significantly improved (p<0.01). Linoleic acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, bile acid synthesis, and purine metabolism disorders in db/db mice were partially corrected after ART treatment. Network pharmacology analysis identified important targets of ART for the treatment of metabolic disorders in T2DM . These targets are involved in key signalling pathways, including the highest scores observed for the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that ART could activate the MAPK signalling pathway and two key gene targets, HGK and GADD45. Immunoblotting revealed that ART increases p-PI3K, p-AKT, Glut2, and IRS1 protein expression and suppresses the phosphorylation of p38, ERK1/2, and JNK, returning HGK and GADD45 to their preartesunate levels.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of db/db mice with 160 mg/kg ART for 7 weeks significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and lipid levels. It also improved metabolic imbalances in amino acids, lipids, purines, and bile acids, thereby improving metabolic disorders. These effects are achieved by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway and inhibiting the MAPK pathway, thus demonstrating the efficacy of the drug.

In Vitro Anti-Oxidant, In Vivo Anti-Hyperglycemic, and Untargeted Metabolomics-Aided-In Silico Screening of Macroalgae Lipophilic Extracts for Anti-Diabetes Mellitus and Anti-COVID-19 Potential Metabolites

COVID-19 patients with comorbid DM face more severe outcomes, indicating that hyperglycemic conditions exacerbate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Negative side effects from existing hyperglycemia treatments have urged the need for safer compounds. Therefore, sourcing potential compounds from marine resources becomes a new potential approach. Algal lipids are known to possess beneficial activities for human health. However, due to limitations in analyzing large amounts of potential anti-hyperglycemic and anti-COVID-19-related marine metabolites, there is an increasing need for new approaches to reduce risks and costs. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to identify potential compounds in macroalgae Sargassum cristaefolium, Tricleocarpa cylindrica, and Ulva lactuca lipophilic extracts for treating DM and COVID-19 by an integrated approach utilizing in vitro anti-oxidant, in vivo anti-hyperglycemic, and metabolomic-integrated in silico approaches. Among them, S. cristaefolium and T. cylindrica showed potential anti-hyperglycemic activity, with S. cristaefolium showing the highest anti-oxidant activity. A GC-MS-based untargeted metabolomic analysis was used to profile the lipophilic compounds in the extracts followed by an in silico molecular docking analysis to examine the binding affinity of the compounds to anti-DM and anti-COVID-19 targets, e.g., α-amylase, α-glucosidase, ACE2, and TMPRSS2. Notably, this study reveals for the first time that steroid-derived compounds in the macroalgae T. cylindrica had higher binding activity than known ligands for all the targets mentioned. Studies on drug likeliness indicate that these compounds possess favorable drug properties. These findings suggest the potential for these compounds to be further developed to treat COVID-19 patients with comorbid DM. The information in this study would be a basis for further in vitro and in vivo analysis. It would also be useful for the development of these candidate compounds into drug formulations.

Mechanism of the antidiabetic action of Nigella sativa and Thymoquinone: a review

Introduction

Long used in traditional medicine, Nigella sativa (NS; Ranunculaceae) has shown significant efficacy as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus (DM) management by improving glucose tolerance, decreasing hepatic gluconeogenesis, normalizing blood sugar and lipid imbalance, and stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic cells. In this review, the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of NS as a herbal diabetes medication are examined in depth, demonstrating how it counteracts oxidative stress and the onset and progression of DM.

Methods

This literature review drew on databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed and various gray literature sources using search terms like the etiology of diabetes, conventional versus herbal therapy, subclinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, physiology, behavior, and clinical outcomes.

Results

The efficiency and safety of NS in diabetes, notably its thymoquinone (TQ) rich volatile oil, have drawn great attention from researchers in recent years; the specific therapeutic dose has eluded determination so far. TQ has anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties but has not proved druggable. DM's intimate link with oxidative stress, makes NS therapy relevant since it is a potent antioxidant that energizes the cell's endogenous arsenal of antioxidant enzymes. NS attenuates insulin resistance, enhances insulin signaling, suppresses cyclooxygenase-2, upregulates insulin-like growth factor-1, and prevents endothelial dysfunction in DM.

Conclusion

The interaction of NS with mainstream drugs, gut microbiota, and probiotics opens new possibilities for innovative therapies. Despite its strong potential to treat DM, NS and TQ must be examined in more inclusive clinical studies targeting underrepresented patient populations.

Health benefits of anthocyanin-containing foods, beverages, and supplements have unpredictable relation to gastrointestinal microbiota: A systematic review and meta-analysis of random clinical trials

Anthocyanins are a type of natural pigment that has numerous health benefits. In recent years, the interaction of anthocyanins with gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota has been presented as a viable paradigm for explaining anthocyanin activities. The current study performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the potential modulation of GI microbiota by anthocyanins in human health improvement. Clinical trials were retrieved from PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Knowledge, China Biology Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and ClinicalTrials.gov with no language restrictions. Eight clinical trials (252 participants) were selected from the 1121 identified studies and the relative phylum abundance extracted from the trials was analyzed using a random-effects model. Based on the analysis, anthocyanins had no effect on the relative abundance of Firmicutes (standard mean difference [SMD]: -0.46 [-1.25 to 0.34], P = .26), Proteobacteria (SMD, -0.32 [-0.73 to 0.09], P = .13), nor Actinobacteria (SMD, -0.19 [-0.50 to 0.12], P = 0.24), but influenced the abundance of Bacteroidetes (SMD, 0.84 [0.17 to 1.52], P = .01) when compared with placebo/control. No significant influence on the relative abundance was detected when the data were analyzed following the "posttreatment vs. pretreatment" strategy. Our preliminary analysis revealed that the effects of anthocyanins on human GI microbiota vary between studies and individuals, and at the current stage, the clinical trials regarding the effects of anthocyanin interventions on human GI microbiota are lacking. More trials with larger sample sizes are needed to promote the clinical application of anthocyanins.

Berberine and Its Study as an Antidiabetic Compound

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that causes hyperglycemia conditions and leads to various chronic complications that causes death. The prevalence of diabetes is predicted to continue to increase, and with the high toxicity levels of current diabetes drugs, the exploration of natural compounds as alternative diabetes treatment has been widely carried out, one of which is berberine. Berberine and several other alkaloid compounds, including some of its derivatives, have shown many bioactivities, such as neuraminidase and hepatoprotective activity. Berberine also exhibits antidiabetic activity. As an antidiabetic compound, berberine is known to reduce blood glucose levels, increase insulin secretion, and weaken glucose tolerance and insulin resistance by activating the AMPK pathway. Apart from being an antidiabetic compound, berberine also exhibits various other activities such as being anti-adipogenic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Many studies have been conducted on berberine, but its exact mechanism still needs to be clarified and requires further investigation. This review will discuss berberine and its mechanism as a natural compound with various activities, mainly as an antidiabetic.

Exploring the protective effect of Sangggua Drink against type 2 diabetes mellitus in db/db mice using a network pharmacological approach and experimental validation

Sanggua Drink (SGD) is an experienced formula for clinical treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Network pharmacology and experiments were combined to explore the potential mechanism of action of SGD on T2DM. The material basis and action mechanism of SGD were investigated to reveal the active components of SGD, potential target prediction was conducted from TargetNet, PharmMapper; Cytoscape was used to construct PPI network and component-target-pathway (C-T-P) network diagram to interpret biological processes and enrich action pathways. 54 compounds and 41 key target proteins were screened, and a total of 98 signaling pathways were obtained. In vivo experiments, the levels of p-AMPK (P < 0.01), p-ACC and p-AKT were significantly increased in the mice with SGD intervention compared to the db/db mice, while level of FOXO1 were decreased. The results suggested that SGD might improve insulin resistance and glucose metabolism in T2DM mice by activating the AMPK/Akt signaling pathway.

Hydrogen-Rich Water Ameliorates Metabolic Disorder via Modifying Gut Microbiota in Impaired Fasting Glucose Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

Molecular hydrogen (H₂) exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, and has shown benefits in glucose and lipid metabolism in certain animal metabolic disorder models. However, the potential benefits of H₂ treatment in individuals with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) has seldom been studied. This randomized controlled study (RCT) aims to investigate the effects of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on IFG subjects and explore the underlying mechanism involved.

METHODS

Seventy-three patients with IFG were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. These patients were assigned to receive either 1000 mL per day of HRW or placebo pure water (no H₂ infusion) for a duration of eight weeks. Metabolic parameters and fecal gut microbiota were assessed at baseline (week 0) and at week 8. A combined analysis of metabolomics and intestinal microbiota was conducted to investigate the correlation between the effect of H₂ on the metabolisms and the diversity of intestinal flora in the IGF patients.

RESULTS

Both pure water and HRW demonstrated a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose in IFG patients, with a significant difference between pure water and HRW after eight weeks. Among IFG patients with abnormal pre-experimental fatty liver, 62.5% (10/16) in the HRW group and 31.6% (6/19) in the pure water group achieved remission. Furthermore, 16S RNA analysis revealed HRW-modified gut microbiota dysbiosis in the fecal samples of IGF patients. Through Pearson correlation analysis, the differential gut microbiota obtained by 16S analysis was found to be highly correlated with nine metabolites.

CONCLUSION

H₂ slightly improved metabolic abnormalities and gut microbiota dysbiosis, providing a novel target and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of blood glucose regulation in patients with IFG.

Evaluation of the protective effects of berberine and berberine nanoparticle on insulin secretion and oxidative stress induced by carbon nanotubes in isolated mice islets of langerhans: an in vitro study

The increasing use of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) in various fields highlights the need to investigate the test toxicity of these nanoparticles in humans. Previous documents showed that SWCNT induced oxidative stress. Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause cell dysfunction and reduced insulin secretion. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of SWCNT on oxidative stress and insulin secretion of islets also evaluate the protective effects of berberine (BBR) and berberine nanoparticles (NP-BBR) as antioxidants on pancreatic β-islets. Double emulsion with solvent evaporation was the technique used to prepare nanoparticles in this study. Islets were isolated and pretreated with various concentrations of BBR and NP-BBR and then treated with single dose of SWCNT (160 μg). The results of this study showed that SWCNT decreased cell viability based on MTT assay, reduced insulin secretion of islets, increased malondialdehyde (MDA) amounts, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, whereas pretreatment of islets with low doses of BBR (5 and 15 μM) and NP-BBR (5 μM) significantly reversed all changes induced by SWCNT. These findings suggested that SWCNT might trigger other pathways involved in insulin secretion by activating the oxidative stress pathway in the pancreatic islets, reducing insulin secretion, consequently diabetes. BBR and NP-BBR as antioxidants were able to protect pancreatic β-islets and prevent the progression of diabetes.

BMP-7 Attenuates Sarcopenia and Adverse Muscle Remodeling in Diabetic Mice via Alleviation of Lipids, Inflammation, HMGB1, and Pyroptosis

Diabetic myopathy involves hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, the role of hypercholesterolemia-induced inflammation-mediated pathological mechanisms leading to fibrosis, sarcopenia, deterioration of muscle, and muscle dysfunction in diabetes is not well understood. In this study, we investigated the novel role of bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) in ameliorating metabolic alterations, inflammation, pyroptosis, TGF-β/SMAD cell signaling mechanisms, and progression of diabetic myopathy. C57BL/6J mice were treated with saline, streptozotocin (STZ), or STZ+BMP-7. Diabetes was confirmed by increased fasting glucose levels and a glucose tolerance test. Gastrocnemius muscle and blood samples were collected for lipid and tissue analysis using various methods. A significant increase in hyperglycemia resulted in an increase in lipid accumulation, monocyte infiltration, and inflammation, as well as an increase in pyroptotic markers and signaling markers in diabetic muscle myocytes. A structural analysis showed significant muscle loss, and increased muscle deterioration and fibrosis leading to muscle dysfunction. BMP-7 attenuated pathological processes that resulted in significantly improved muscle function. We report, for the first time, that increased hyperlipidemia aggravates inflammation-induced pyroptosis, resulting in significant muscle loss, sarcopenia, and adverse skeletal muscle remodeling in diabetic muscle myopathy. Interventional treatment with BMP-7 attenuates hypercholesterolemia-induced inflammation-mediated sarcopenia and adverse muscle remodeling, suggesting BMP-7 could be a potential treatment option for diabetic muscle myopathy.

Gingerol, a Natural Antioxidant, Attenuates Hyperglycemia and Downstream Complications

Hyperglycemia is seen in approximately 68 percent of patients admitted to a medical intensive care unit (ICU). In many acute circumstances, such as myocardial infarction, brain, injury and stroke, it is an independent predictor of mortality. Hyperglycemia is induced by a mix of genetic, environmental, and immunologic variables in people with type 1 diabetes. These factors cause pancreatic beta cell death and insulin insufficiency. Insulin resistance and irregular insulin production cause hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes patients. Hyperglycemia activates a number of complicated interconnected metabolic processes. Hyperglycemia is a major contributor to the onset and progression of diabetes' secondary complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, cataracts, periodontitis, and bone and joint issues. Studies on the health benefits of ginger and its constituent's impact on hyperglycemia and related disorders have been conducted and gingerol proved to be a potential pharmaceutically active constituent of ginger (Zingiber officinale) that has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, because it possesses antioxidant properties and it functions as an antioxidant in the complicated biochemical process that causes hyperglycemia to be activated. Gingerol not only helps in treating hyperglycemia but also shows effectivity against diseases related to it, such as cardiopathy, kidney failure, vision impairments, bone and joint problems, and teeth and gum infections. Moreover, fresh ginger has various gingerol analogues, with 6-gingerol being the most abundant. However, it is necessary to investigate the efficacy of its other analogues against hyperglycemia and associated disorders at various concentrations in order to determine the appropriate dose for treating these conditions.

OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: Oxidative stress and the long-term storage of horse spermatozoa

In brief

The growing understanding of the mechanisms regulating redox homeostasis in the stallion spermatozoa, together with its interactions with energetic metabolism, is providing new clues applicable to the improvement of sperm conservation in horses. Based on this knowledge, new extenders, adapted to the biology of the stallion spermatozoa, are expected to be developed in the near future.

Abstract

The preservation of semen either by refrigeration or cryopreservation is a principal component of most animal breeding industries. Although this procedure has been successful in many species, in others, substantial limitations persist. In the last decade, mechanistic studies have shed light on the molecular changes behind the damage that spermatozoa experience during preservation. Most of this damage is oxidative, and thus in this review, we aim to provide an updated overview of recent discoveries about how stallion spermatozoa maintain redox homeostasis, and how the current procedures of sperm preservation disrupt redox regulation and cause sperm damage which affects viability, functionality, fertility and potentially the health of the offspring. We are optimistic that this review will promote new ideas for further research to improve sperm preservation technologies, promoting translational research with a wide scope for applicability not only in horses but also in other animal species and humans.

An integrated overview on the regulation of sperm metabolism (glycolysis-Krebs cycle-oxidative phosphorylation)

An overview of the sperm metabolism is presented; using the stallion as a model we review glycolysis, Krebs Cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, paying special attention to the interactions among them. In addition, metabolism implies a series of coordinated oxidation-reduction reactions and in the course of these reactions reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive oxoaldehydes are produced ; the electron transport chain (ETC) in the mitochondria is the main source of the anion superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, while glycolysis produces 2-oxoaldehydes such as methylglyoxal as byproducts; due to the adjacent carbonyl groups are strong electrophiles (steal electrons oxidizing other compounds). Sophisticated mechanisms exist to maintain redox homeostasis, because ROS under controlled production also have important regulatory functions in the spermatozoa. The interactions between metabolism and production of reactive oxygen species are essential for proper sperm function, and deregulation of these processes rapidly leads to sperm malfunction and finally death. Lastly, we briefly describe two techniques that will expand our knowledge on sperm metabolism in the coming decades, metabolic flow cytometry and the use of the "omics" technologies, proteomics and metabolomics, specifically the micro and nano proteomics/metabolomics. A better understanding of the metabolism of the spermatozoa will lead to big improvements in sperm technologies and the diagnosis and treatment of male factor infertility.

The Stallion Spermatozoa: A Valuable Model to Help Understand the Interplay Between Metabolism and Redox (De)regulation in Sperm Cells

Significance: Proper functionality of the spermatozoa depends on the tight regulation of their redox status; at the same time these cells are highly energy demanding and in the energetic metabolism, principally in the electron transport chain in the mitochondria, reactive oxygen species are continuously produced, in addition to that observed in the Krebs cycle and during the β-oxidation of fatty acids. Recent Advances: In addition, in glycolysis, elimination of phosphate groups from glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and dihydroxyacetone phosphate results in the byproducts glyoxal (G) and methylglyoxal (MG); these products are 2-oxoaldehydes. The presence of adjacent carbonyl groups makes them strong electrophiles that react with nucleophiles in proteins, lipids, and DNA, forming advanced glycation end products. Critical Issues: This mechanism is behind subfertility in diabetic patients; in the animal breeding industry, commercial extenders for stallion semen contain a supraphysiological concentration of glucose that promotes MG production, constituting a potential model of interest. Future Directions: Increasing our knowledge of sperm metabolism and its interactions with redox regulation may improve current sperm technologies in use, and shall provide new clues to understanding infertility in males. Moreover, stallion spermatozoa due to its accessibility, intense metabolism, and suitability for proteomics/metabolomic studies may constitute a suitable model for studying regulation of metabolism and interactions between metabolism and redox homeostasis. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 521-537.

Effect of mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants on glycaemic control, cardiovascular health, and oxidative stress in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIM

To investigate the effects of mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants (mitoAOXs) on glycaemic control, cardiovascular health, and oxidative stress outcomes in humans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Randomized controlled trials investigating mitoAOX interventions in humans were searched for in databases (MEDLINE-PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE and Cochrane Library) and clinical trial registries up to 10 June 2021. The Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations were used to assess trial quality and evidence certainty, respectively.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies (n = 884 participants) using mitoAOXs (including Elamipretide, MitoQ and MitoTEMPO) were included in the systematic review. There were limited studies investigating the effects of mitoAOXs on glycaemic control; and outcomes and population groups in studies focusing on cardiovascular health were diverse. MitoAOXs significantly improved brachial flow-mediated dilation (n = 3 trials; standardized mean difference: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.28, 2.16; I2 : 67%) with very low evidence certainty. No significant effects were found for any other glycaemic, cardiovascular or oxidative stress-related outcomes with mitoAOXs in quantitative analyses, with evidence certainty rated mostly as low. There was a lack of serious treatment-emergent adverse events with mitoAOXs, although subcutaneous injection of Elamipretide increased mild-moderate injection site-related events.

CONCLUSION

While short-term studies indicate that mitoAOXs are generally well tolerated, there is currently limited evidence to support the use of mitoAOXs in the management of glycaemic control and cardiovascular health. Review findings suggest that future research should focus on the effects of mitoAOXs on glycaemic control and endothelial function in target clinical population groups.

Integrating network pharmacology and non-targeted metabolomics to explore the common mechanism of Coptis Categorized Formula improving T2DM zebrafish

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Coptis Categorized Formula (CCF) is one of the core prescriptions in Treatise on Febrile Diseases. Its efficacy can be available not only in exogenous diseases but widely in various internal injuries and miscellaneous diseases. CCF (i.e., Huanglian Jiedu Decoction, Huanglian Ejiao Decoction, Dahuang Huanglian Xiexin Decoction, Gegen Qinlian Decoction) is different in composition, but they all play a favorable role in curative effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, it is of great significance to reveal the common mechanism of CCF in treating T2DM.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Based on network pharmacology and non-targeted metabolomics research strategy, the common mechanism of the CCF treating T2DM was discussed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight/mass spectrometry was used to identify the chemical constituents of the CCF. Then, the targets of these chemical components were used for network pharmacology analysis associated with therapeutic effect. Finally, the diabetic zebrafish model was constructed to further verify the common mechanism of the CCF in treating T2DM.

RESULTS

A total of 160 chemical compositions were identified and 16 of them were common chemical compositions of the four CCF, including berberine, baicalin, coptisine and so forth. Network pharmacology results showed that Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4, cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (CASP)3, nitric oxide synthase (NOS)2, NOS3, and other 37 targets were common targets of CCF, and advanced glycation end products (AGE)-receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) signaling pathway in diabetic complications, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1 signaling pathway were critical pathways of four CCF in the treatment of T2DM. CCF can lessen the blood glucose of diabetic zebrafish. The contents of 25 differential metabolites in diabetic zebrafish were altered. These metabolites were mainly related to phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Our research shows that the common mechanism of CCF in improving T2DM is as follows: berberine, baicalin, coptisine and other chemical components can directionally regulate DPP-4, CASP3, NOS2, NOS3 and other targets, which are mediated by AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, MAPK signaling pathway and HIF-1 signaling pathway. The content of endogenous metabolites such as L-valine and L-sorbitose changes, and further regulates the metabolism of amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, purine metabolism, sphingosine metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolism, so as to play a significant role in regulating glycolipid metabolism, improving insulin resistance, inhibiting cell apoptosis, anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation, and finally ameliorating T2DM.

Persistence of improved glucose homeostasis in Gclm null mice with age and cadmium treatment

Antioxidant signaling/communication is among the most important cellular defense and survival pathways, and the importance of redox signaling and homeostasis in aging has been well-documented. Intracellular levels of glutathione (GSH), a very important endogenous antioxidant, both govern and are governed by the Nrf2 pathway through expression of genes involved in its biosynthesis, including the subunits of the rate-limiting enzyme (glutamate cysteine ligase, GCL) in GSH production, GCLC and GCLM. Mice homozygous null for the Gclm gene are severely deficient in GSH compared to wild-type controls, expressing approximately 10% of normal GSH levels. To compensate for GSH deficiency, Gclm null mice have upregulated redox-regulated genes, and, surprisingly, are less susceptible to certain types of oxidative damage. Furthermore, young Gclm null mice display an interesting lean phenotype, resistance to high fat diet-induced diabetes and obesity, improved insulin and glucose tolerance, and decreased expression of genes involved in lipogenesis. However, the persistence of this phenotype has not been investigated into old age, which is important in light of studies which suggest aging attenuates antioxidant signaling, particularly in response to exogenous stimuli. In this work, we addressed whether aging compromises the favorable phenotype of increased antioxidant activity and improved glucose homeostasis observed in younger Gclm null mice. We present data showing that under basal conditions and in response to cadmium exposure (2 mg/kg, dosed once via intraperitoneal injection), the phenotype previously described in young (<6 months) Gclm null mice persists into old age (24+ months). We also provide evidence that transcriptional activation of the Nrf2, AMPK, and PPARγ pathways underlie the favorable metabolic phenotype observed previously in young Gclm null mice.

Current Strategies and Potential Prospects for Nanoparticle-Mediated Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a severe microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), is the most common form of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a leading cause of renal failure in end-stage renal disease. No currently available treatment can achieve complete cure. Traditional treatments have many limitations, such as painful subcutaneous insulin injections, nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity with oral medication, and poor patient compliance with continual medication intake. Given the known drawbacks, recent research has suggested that nanoparticle-based drug delivery platforms as therapeutics may provide a promising strategy for treating debilitating diseases such as DN in the future. This administration method provides multiple advantages, such as delivering the loaded drug to the precise target of action and enabling early prevention of CKD progression. This article discusses the development of the main currently used nanoplatforms, such as liposomes, polymeric NPs, and inorganic NPs, as well as the prospects and drawbacks of nanoplatform application in the treatment of CKD.

High L-Valine Concentrations Associate with Increased Oxidative Stress and Newly-Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are essential AAs which are widely used as antioxidants in patients with liver and kidney dysfunction. However, BCAAs are strongly correlated with insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship among BCAAs, oxidative stress, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a Chinese population.

METHODS

Anthropometric and biochemical examinations were performed in 816 individuals who participated in the Huai'an Diabetes Prevention Program. Serum BCAAs concentrations were measured by hydrophilic interaction chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric method. Oxidative stress was evaluated by malondialdehyde (MDA) as an index of lipid peroxidation and the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity.

RESULTS

A total of 816 participants were divided into three groups: normal glucose metabolism (NGM), prediabetes, and newly-diagnosed diabetes mellitus (NDM). Subjects in NDM group show higher MDA and lower SOD levels than subjects in other groups. L-Val levels positively correlated with MDA levels and negatively with SOD in NDM groups. After adjusting for T2DM risk factors, high L-Val levels were significantly associated with higher BMI, WC, FPG, increased LnTG and decreased HDL-C. L-Val was also independently associated with NDM (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02-1.10; P = 0.005). Furthermore, the odds ratios for NDM among participants with high L-Val (≥35.25μg/mL) levels showed a 2.25-fold (95% CI 1.11-4.57; P = 0.024) increase compared to participants with low L-Val (<27.26 μg/mL) levels after adjusting for MDA and confounding factors.

CONCLUSION

High serum L-Val levels are independently associated with oxidative stress, thus promoting IR and NDM. Further study should be done to clarify the mechanism.

Glycaemic management in diabetes: old and new approaches

HbA_1c is the most used parameter to assess glycaemic control. However, evidence suggests that the concept of hyperglycaemia has profoundly changed and that different facets of hyperglycaemia must be considered. A modern approach to glycaemic control should focus not only on reaching and maintaining optimal HbA_1c concentrations as early as possible, but to also do so by reducing postprandial hyperglycaemia, glycaemic variability, and to extend as much as possible the time in range in near-normoglycaemia. These goals should be achieved while avoiding hypoglycaemia, which, should it occur, should be reverted to normoglycaemia. Modern technology, such as intermittently scanned glucose monitoring and continuous glucose monitoring, together with new drug therapies (eg, ultra-fast insulins, SGLT2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists), could help to change the landscape of glycaemia management based on HbA_1c in favour of a more holistic approach that considers all the different aspects of this commonly oversimplified pathophysiological feature of diabetes.

Terminalia catappa Extract Palliates Redox Imbalance and Inflammation in Diabetic Rats by Upregulating Nrf-2 Gene

This study aims at evaluating the ameliorative role of Terminalia catappa aqueous leaf extract (TCA) on hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in a high-fat, low dose streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rat model. Experimental rats were treated orally with 400 and 800 mg/kg bw TCA daily for four weeks. Antioxidant enzyme activities, plasma glucose concentration, protein concentration, oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarkers were assayed using standard methods. Hepatic relative expressions of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-six (IL-6), and nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf-2) were also assessed. Molecular docking and prediction of major TCA phytoconstituents' biological activity related to T2DM-induced oxidative stress were evaluated in silico. Induction of diabetes significantly (p < 0.05) reduced superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, and peroxidase activities. Glutathione and protein stores were significantly (p < 0.05) depleted, while glucose, MDA, interleukin-six (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) concentrations were significantly (p < 0.05) increased. A significant (p < 0.05) upregulation of hepatic TNF-α and IL-6 expression and downregulation (p < 0.05) of Nrf-2 expression were observed during diabetes onset. TCA treatment significantly (p < 0.05) modulated systemic diabetic-induced oxidative stress and inflammation, mRNA expression dysregulation, and dysregulated macromolecule metabolism. However, only 800 mg/kg TCA treatment significantly (p < 0.05) downregulated hepatic TNF-α expression. 9-Oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,6-diol and 1,2,3-Benzenetriol bound comparably to glibenclamide in Nrf-2, IL-6, and TNF-α binding pockets. They were predicted to be GST A and M substrate, JAK2 expression, ribulose-phosphate 3-epimerase, NADPH peroxidase, and glucose oxidase inhibitors. These results suggest that TCA ameliorates hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation by activating Nrf-2 gene.

The association between dietary total antioxidant capacity and NMO-IgG seropositivity in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

OBJECTIVES

There is growing evidence highlighting the role of environmental risk factors of NMO-IgG seropositivity in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). The present study investigated the possible association between dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and NMO-IgG seropositivity in NMOSD patients.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients with a definite diagnosis of NMOSD were included in the study. Data on patients' age, gender, height, weight, cigarette smoking status, and alcohol consumption were collected and recorded. Body mass index (BMI) was also calculated. In addition, dietary habits of patients were evaluated using an adjusted semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) that consists of 168 food items. Dietary TAC was calculated using the oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC) method. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to determine the NMO-IgG serum status. The association between dietary TAC and odds of NMO-IgG seropositivity was measured using the logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The mean of dietary TAC was 8362.8 (μmolTE/1000 kcal) in seronegative patients and 6609.9 (μmolTE/1000 kcal) in seropositive patients and had a significant difference between the mentioned groups of patients (P: 0.02). An inverse association was found between dietary TAC and odds of NMO-IgG seropositivity in all three regression models. The higher dietary intake of antioxidant resulted in significant findings as follows: 92% (95% CI: 0.01-0.53), 97% (95% CI: 0.00-0.34), and 97% (95% CI: 0.00-0.32) lower odds of NMO-IgG seropositivity in the fourth quartiles of the first, the second, and the third regression model, respectively. Moreover, the inverse association between fruit intake and odds of NMO-IgG seropositivity was significant in the third quartile (OR:0.10; 95%CI: 0.01-0.97).

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated a significant inverse association between dietary TAC and NMO-IgG seropositivity of NMOSD patients. As no definite treatment can be offered for NMOSD and nutrition is a modifiable factor in this regard, specification of dietary factors affecting the risk of NMOSD is of great value.

Intensity of Glycemic Exposure in Early Adulthood and Target Organ Damage in Middle Age: The CARDIA Study

AIM

To determine whether long-term intensity of glycemic exposure (IGE) during young adulthood is associated with multiple target organs function at midlife independent of single fasting glucose (FG) measurement.

METHODS

We included 2,859 participants, aged 18-30 years at Y0, in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. IGE was calculated as the sum of (average FG of two consecutive examinations × years between the examinations) over 25 years. Target organs function was indicated by cardiac structure, left ventricular (LV) systolic function, LV diastolic function, coronary artery calcium (CAC), and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) at Y25. We evaluated the associations between IGE with target organs function using linear regression models and estimated the associations between IGE with numbers of organs involved (0, 1, or ≥ 2 organs) using multinomial logistic regression models.

RESULTS

A 1-SD increment of IGE was significantly associated with worse target organs function after multivariable adjustment: left ventricular mass (β [SE], 5.468 [1.175]); global longitudinal strain (β [SE], 0.161 [0.071]); E/e' ratio (β[SE], 0.192 [0.071]); CAC score (β [SE], 27.948 [6.116]); and log UACR (β [SE], 0.076 [0.010]). Besides, IGE was independently associated with having ≥ 2 organs involved in both overall population (OR [95% CI], 1.48 [1.23, 1.41], P < 0.001) and subgroups stratified by diabetes at Y25.

CONCLUSION

Higher intensity of glycemic exposure during young adulthood was independently associated with subclinical alterations of target organs function at midlife. Our findings highlight the importance of early screening and management of IGE in youth.

DNA damage in leukocytes and serum nitrite concentration are negatively associated in type 1 diabetes

Chronic hyperglycaemia leads to DNA damage in diabetes and might be associated with nitrosative stress. In this study, we aimed at assessing the level of DNA strand breaks in leukocytes, serum nitrite and nitrate in patients with type 1 diabetes and healthy controls and associations of these parameters with diabetes-related outcomes in a prospective study. The level of DNA damage was determined in 71 patients with type 1 diabetes and 57 healthy controls by comet assay and scored with arbitrary units (AU). The chemiluminescence method was used to measure nitrite and nitrate. Clinical information and data on consumption of alcohol, physical activity and smoking were collected. Progression of complications in patients with diabetes was assessed after a follow-up time of 4-5 years. We observed a higher level of DNA damage in leukocytes of patients with type 1 diabetes compared with healthy subjects [type 1 diabetes AU 50 (36-74.5); control AU 30 (24.1-43), P < 0.001]. According to regression, type 1 diabetes leads to a 2-fold increase in DNA damage. In the group of type 1 diabetes, DNA damage correlated positively with total cholesterol (R = 0.262, P = 0.028) and negatively with serum glucose level (R = -0.284; P = 0.018) and serum nitrite (R = -0.335; P = 0.008). DNA damage was not significantly associated with HbA1c, diabetes duration, complications and lifestyle factors. However, DNA damage > 57 AU was associated with statistically significantly lower serum nitrite and 1.52 higher risk of progression of complications of diabetes over the follow-up period. The latter result was not statistically significant due to insufficient study power [relative risk 1.52 (95% confidence interval = 0.68, 3.42, P = 0.31)]. Our results confirm that type 1 diabetes is associated with a higher level of DNA strand breaks in leukocytes when compared with the reference group and demonstrate the negative association between DNA damage and serum nitrite concentration.

Contributions from Mexican Flora for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: Molecules of Psacalium decompositum (A. Gray) H. Rob & Brettell

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is cited as a serious worldwide health problem that occupies second place in causes of annual mortality in Mexico. Among Mexican flora, nearly 300 plant species have been employed as hypoglycemic in popular use. Thus, their study entertains great relevance In this context, this work contributes a clear and timely review of the plant species utilized in Traditional Mexican Medicine and experimental biological models in which not only have the hypoglycemic properties of the extracts and the isolated compounds been considered, but also the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, taking into account an integral focus based on the complex mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and physiopathology of DM. Among the species reviewed, we highlight Psacalium decompositum (Asteraceae), due to the potent hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity of the sesquiterpenes identified as majority compounds isolated from the root, such as cacalol and cacalone that also possess the capacity of increasing insulin levels. In this manner, the present manuscript attempts to contribute necessary information for the future study of bioactive molecules that are useful in the treatment of DM, as well as also being a contribution to the knowledge and diffusion of Mexican Traditional Medicine.

Investigation of the In Vitro Antioxidant Potential Of Polyphenolic-Rich Extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam Stem Bark and Its Antidiabetic Activity In Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam (Moraceae) stem bark has been used locally in managing diabetes mellitus with sparse scientific information. This study investigates the in vitro antioxidant potential of polyphenolic-rich extract of A heterophyllus stem bark as well as its antidiabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Fifty male Wistar rats were used with the induction of diabetes by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg body weight) and were orally administered 400 mg/kg free and bound phenols of A heterophyllus stem bark. The animals were sacrificed on the 28th day of the experiment using the cervical dislocation method; antihyperglycemia and anti-inflammatory parameters were subsequently assessed. The polyphenolic extracts demonstrated antioxidant potentials (such as hydrogen peroxide and diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), as well as strong inhibitory activity against amylase and glucosidase. There was a significant (P < .05) increase in glycogen, insulin concentration, pancreatic β-cell scores (HOMA-β), antioxidant enzymes and hexokinase activities, as well as glucose transporter concentration in diabetic animals administered the extracts and metformin. Also, a significant (P < .05) reduction in fasting blood glucose, lipid peroxidation, glucose-6-phosphatase, and all anti-inflammatory parameters were observed in diabetic rats administered the extracts and metformin. The extracts demonstrated antidiabetic potential, which may be useful in the management of diabetes mellitus

Low glucose and high pyruvate reduce the production of 2-oxoaldehydes, improving mitochondrial efficiency, redox regulation, and stallion sperm function†

Energy metabolism in spermatozoa is complex and involves the metabolism of carbohydrate fatty acids and amino acids. The ATP produced in the electron transport chain in the mitochondria appears to be crucial for both sperm motility and maintaining viability, whereas glycolytic enzymes in the flagella may contribute to ATP production to sustain motility and velocity. Stallion spermatozoa seemingly use diverse metabolic strategies, and in this regard, a study of the metabolic proteome showed that Gene Ontology terms and Reactome pathways related to pyruvate metabolism and the Krebs cycle were predominant. Following this, the hypothesis that low glucose concentrations can provide sufficient support for motility and velocity, and thus glucose concentration can be significantly reduced in the medium, was tested. Aliquots of stallion semen in four different media were stored for 48 h at 18°C; a commercial extender containing 67 mM glucose was used as a control. Stallion spermatozoa stored in media with low glucose (1 mM) and high pyruvate (10 mM) (LG-HP) sustained better motility and velocities than those stored in the commercial extender formulated with very high glucose (61.7 ± 1.2% in INRA 96 vs 76.2 ± 1.0% in LG-HP media after 48 h of incubation at 18°C; P < 0.0001). Moreover, mitochondrial activity was superior in LG-HP extenders (24.1 ± 1.8% in INRA 96 vs 51.1 ± 0.7% in LG-HP of spermatozoa with active mitochondria after 48 h of storage at 18°C; P < 0.0001). Low glucose concentrations may permit more efficient sperm metabolism and redox regulation when substrates for an efficient tricarboxylic acid cycle are provided. The improvement seen using low glucose extenders is due to reductions in the levels of glyoxal and methylglyoxal, 2-oxoaldehydes formed during glycolysis; these compounds are potent electrophiles able to react with proteins, lipids, and DNA, causing sperm damage.

Synthesis and studies of thiazolidinedione-isatin hybrids as α-glucosidase inhibitors for management of diabetes

Aim: Keeping in view the side effects associated with clinically used α-glucosidase inhibitors, novel thiazolidinedione-isatin hybrids were synthesized and evaluated by in vitro, in vivo and in silico procedures. Materials & methods: Biological evaluation, cytotoxicity assessment, molecular docking, binding free energy calculations and molecular dynamics studies were performed for hybrids. Results: The most potent inhibitor A-10 (IC₅₀ = 24.73 ± 0.93 μM) was competitive in manner and observed as non-cytotoxic. A-10 possessed higher efficacy than the standard drug (acarbose) during in vivo biological testing. Conclusion: The enzyme inhibitory potential and safety profile of synthetic molecules was recognized after in vitro, in vivo, in silico and cytotoxicity studies. Further structural optimization of A-10 can offer potential hit molecules suitable for future investigations.

6-Gingerol, a Bioactive Compound of Ginger Attenuates Renal Damage in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats by Regulating the Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

The aim of present study is to investigate the role of 6-gingerol in ameliorating the renal injury in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The diabetes was induced by using a single dose of freshly prepared STZ (55 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally which causes the degeneration of pancreatic Langerhans islet β-cells. The diabetic rats were treated with oral gavage of 6-gingerol (10 mg/kg b.w.). The treatment plan was continued for 8 weeks successively and the body weight and fasting blood glucose levels were weekly checked. The biochemical parameters like lipid profile, kidney profile, antioxidant enzyme levels, lipid peroxidation and anti-inflammatory marker levels were investigated after the treatment plant. The pathological condition of kidneys was examined by haematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining besides this analysis of NF-κB protein expression by immuno-histochemistry was performed. Some of the major parameters in diabetes control vs. normal control were reported as fasting blood glucose (234 ± 10 vs. 102 ± 8 mg/dL), serum creatinine (109.7 ± 7.2 vs. 78.9 ± 4.5 μmol/L) and urea (39.9 ± 1.8 vs. 18.6 mg/dL), lipid profile levels were significantly enhanced in diabetic rats. Moreover, diabetic rats were marked with decreased antioxidant enzyme levels and increased inflammatory markers. Treatment with 6-gingerol significantly restored the fasting blood glucose level, hyperlipidaemia, Malondialdehyde (MDA) and inflammatory marker levels, NF-κB protein expression and augmented the antioxidant enzyme levels in the kidneys of diabetic rats. The kidney damage was significantly normalized by the treatment of 6-gingerol and it provides an evidence that this novel compound plays a significant role in the protection of kidney damage. These findings demonstrate that 6-gingerol reduces lipid parameters, inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic rats, thereby inhibiting the renal damage. Our results demonstrate that use of 6-gingerol could be a novel therapeutic approach to prevent the kidney damage associated with the diabetes mellitus.

Effects of Golden Sea Cucumber Extract (Stichopus Hermanii) on Fasting Blood Glucose, Plasma Insulin, and MDA Level of Male Rats (Rattus Norvegicus) Induced with Streptozotocin

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of disease that its incidence increases every year worldwide. The condition of DM can cause various complications caused by oxidative stress. Stichopus hermanii (SH) or golden sea cucumber extract contains antioxidant compounds that have been proven to reduce oxidative stress conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Stichopus hermanii extract on condition of diabetes mellitus by looking at changes in fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, and malondialdehyde levels in animal models of Wistar rats. This study was a laboratory experimental study using Randomized Control Trial Design with Post-test only control group design. Thirty-five male Wistar rats divided into five groups, i.e normal control group, positive control, negative control and two treatment groups with SH extract dose 8.5 and 17 mg / kgBW for 14 days once daily after induction of Streptozotocin at the Biochemistry Laboratory of the Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University. Fasting blood glucose level was measured by a glucometer, plasma insulin measured by ELISA and MDA level was measured by a spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed statistically by using One Way ANOVA test and Kruskal Wallis. There were significant results of SH extract can reduce fasting blood glucose (Kruskal Wallis, p=0.030) and MDA (Kruskal Wallis, p=0.042) but not in plasma insulin (ANOVA, p=0.130). The lowest MDA level occurs in the K4 group that given SH extract dose 17 mg/kg BW than another experimental group. As the conclusion, this study showed SH extract can decrease fasting blood glucose and oxidative stress in diabetic-induced rats.

Effects of redox interference on the pancreatic mitochondria and the abnormal blood glucose

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been implicated as a contributor to both the onset and the progression of diabetes, however how does redox state affect diabetes has not been fully understood. Here we study the role of redox interference on pancreatic mitochondria and the progression of diabetes. We applied streptozotocin (STZ) to establish diabetes mellitus (DM) model in rats, applied FeSO₄ to produce oxidative stress (OS) and Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides as antioxidant intervention (AO). Our results showed that in OS and DM group, oxidative stress caused the imbalance of redox state, resulting in higher lipid peroxidation level and lower antioxidant level, while AO treatment group reduced blood glucose by repairing the redox balance. The insulin level has the order of Normal Control (NC)<AO < DM < OS, suggesting oxidative stress promoted insulin secretion in a compensatory mechanism. The Mn-SOD expression in OS groups of pancreas were significantly lower than other groups, while the p53 expression was significantly higher. The mitochondrial ultrastructure of pancreatic β cells were impaired in DM group, and the damage was more severe in OS group, paralleled with significantly reduced secretory granules, both of which were repaired in the AO group. Our results demonstrated that the redox state can affect the blood glucose of diabetic rats, and oxidative stress can aggravate diabetes, while the early antioxidant treatment can alleviate the process of diabetes through reversing the imbalance of redox state and repairing the pancreatic mitochondria. These results suggest that redox balance plays an important role in the treatment of diabetes.

Antioxidant Effects of Trehalose in an Experimental Model of Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress that occurs as a consequence of the imbalance between antioxidant activity and free radicals can contribute in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Antioxidant therapies have been proposed as possible approaches to treat and attenuate diabetic complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate potential antioxidant effects of trehalose on oxidative indices in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model.

METHODS

Diabetic rats were divided randomly into five treatment groups (six rats per group). One test group received 45 mg/kg/day trehalose via intraperitoneal injection, and another received 1.5 mg/kg/day trehalose via oral gavage for 4 weeks. Three control groups were also tested including nondiabetic rats as a normal control (NC), a nontreated diabetic control (DC), and a positive control given 200 mg/kg/day metformin. Levels of thiol groups (-SH), and serum total antioxidant capacity were measured between control and test groups. In addition, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzyme activities were assessed.

RESULTS

In both oral and injection trehalose-treated groups, a marked increase was observed in serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (p > 0.05) and thiol groups (-SH) (p < 0.05). Also, SOD and GPx activities were increased after 4 weeks of treatment with trehalose.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the present results indicate ameliorative effects of trehalose on oxidative stress, with increase antioxidant enzyme activities in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

A ROS-scavenging multifunctional nanoparticle for combinational therapy of diabetic nephropathy

Although synergistic therapy for diabetes mellitus has displayed significant promise for the effective treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN), developing a simple and effective strategy to construct multifunctional nanoparticles is still a huge challenge. Moreover, the complicated pathological mechanism of DN involves various pathway dysfunctions that limit the effectiveness of a single therapeutic approach. Herein, hollow mesoporous silica nanocomposite (HMSN) particles doped with trace cerium oxide that exhibit renoprotective activity have been designed, which not only have the ability to prevent ROS-associated DN pathogenesis but also have high drug loading capacity. Interestingly, the metformin (MET) loaded multifunctional nanoparticles (MET-HMSN-CeO2) with a special size exhibited significantly increased kidney accumulation over free MET. Moreover, the cyclic conversion between Ce3+ and Ce4+ of mixed-valence ceria in our system provides the possibility for long-term ROS-scavenging activity to achieve the antioxidative effect. Then, we investigated the renoprotective effect of these nanoparticles on the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced renal injury rat model and high-glucose induced NRK-52E cell damage model. As a result, our findings demonstrated that the nanoparticles could alleviate the DN symptoms by mitigating oxidative stress, suppressing cellular apoptosis and protecting renal injury both in vitro and in vivo. The kidney deficits of DN are significantly improved after treatment with MET-HMSN-CeO2. Overall, our studies indicated that the MET-HMSN-CeO2 multifunctional nanoparticles would be a promising therapeutic candidate for DN.

Alternatives to Insulin for the Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels in Type 2 Diabetes

This short overview focuses on the causation and treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Emphasis is given to the historical basis of understanding this disease and the background leading to emergence of the central role of insulin. The strengths of insulin administration in the treatment of diabetes are profound, but these need to be balanced against several serious shortcomings of its extended use. Some alternative approaches to T2D management are considered. Insulin is no longer considered as the first choice for type 2 diabetes, and an expanding range of new therapeutic possibilities is emerging. While these may lack the potency of insulin, at a minimum, they allow a major reduction in the intensity of insulin use. In view of the rising worldwide incidence of this disease, it is imperative to develop safe and inexpensive means of limiting its potential for impairment of normal functioning.

lncRNA Eif4g2 improves palmitate-induced dysfunction of mouse β-cells via modulation of Nrf2 activation

Chronic oxidative stress resulting from hyperlipidemia is thought to be a key pathogenic driver of pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in leading to the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been increasingly recognized to regulate dysfunction within pancreatic β-cells in the context of T2DM. In the present study, we sought to comprehensively analyze the roles of lncRNAs in dysfunctional β-cells and mouse islets. Analyses of INS-1E cells were performed by RNA-seq and qRT-PCR after treating with or without 0.5 mM palmitate for 4 days, leading us to identify the novel lncRNA Eif4g2 (lncEif4g2) as a functional regulator within these cells. When we overexpressed lncEif4g2 in INS-1E β-cells and mouse islets, this was sufficient for the reversal of palmitate-mediated reductions in cell viability, insulin production, ATP production by mitochondria, and creation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the dysfunction of mouse islets, with nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation also being observed. In contrast, when lncEif4g2 was knocked down this led INS-1E cells and mouse islets to become more sensitive to palmitate-induced dysfunction, with reduced Nrf2 nuclear translocation also being detected. When antioxidants were used to treat INS-1E cells and mouse islets, however, these negative effects were reversed. Additional functional analyses revealed lncEif4g2 to be capable of directly binding to miR-3074-5p in β-cells, with the expression of lncEif4g2 and miR-3074-5p being negatively correlated with one another. We further found that cAMP-responsive element binding-protein (CREB) was a miR-3074-5p target gene in these cells, thus at least in part serving as a functional mediator of the lncEif4g2/miR-3074-5p axis within dysfunctional β-cells. In summary, our results thus reveal that lncEif4g2 is able to indirectly regulate the expression of CREB via targeting miR-3074-5p in INS-1E cells and mouse islets, thereby leading to enhanced Nrf2 activation.

Essential Oils Downregulate Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Nitric Oxide-Mediated Oxidative Stress in Alloxan-Induced Diabetogenic Rats

INTRODUCTION

Hyperglycemia is associated with an elevated level of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) that leads to nitrosative stress and exacerbates the progression of diabetic complications.

METHODS

Present study was aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of essential oils (EOs) on increased serum levels of nitric oxide (NO) in diabetogenic rats. Diabetogenic rats were treated with EOs separately and/or in combination at the dose of 100 mg/kg, orally for one month. Blood sampling was done at the 1st, 15th and 30th day of the treatment period to investigate the effect of treatment on biomarkers of diabetic complications.

RESULTS

In diabetogenic rats, serum levels of NO, malondialdehyde (MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly increased when compared with that of the control group. Whereas, diabetogenic rats treated with EOs decreased serum levels of NO, MDA and pro-inflammatory cytokines up to a significant extent when compared with that diabetogenic rats treated with the standard antidiabetic drug. Moreover, EOs also increased insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues and insulin secretion from β-cells of pancreatic islets more efficiently when compared with that of diabetogenic rats. Additionally, it was also found that EOs improved lipid profile and normal functions of kidney and liver as compared to that of diabetogenic rats.

CONCLUSION

Findings of this study indicate that EOs may reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine levels by modulating the expression of NO. EOs may also ameliorate the nitrosative stress and maintain glucose homeostasis that are major culprits of diabetic complications.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Physiopathology and Pharmacological Treatment with Pro- and Antioxidant Properties in Chronic Diseases

Oxidative stress (OS) has the ability to damage different molecules and cellular structures, altering the correct function of organs and systems. OS accumulates in the body by endogenous and exogenous mechanisms. Increasing evidence points to the involvement of OS in the physiopathology of various chronic diseases that require prolonged periods of pharmacological treatment. Long-term treatments may contribute to changes in systemic OS. In this review, we discuss the involvement of OS in the pathological mechanisms of some chronic diseases, the pro- or antioxidant effects of their pharmacological treatments, and possible adjuvant antioxidant alternatives. Diseases such as high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, and hypoglycemic treatments help reduce the risk with an additional antioxidant benefit. Treatment with methotrexate in autoimmune systemic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, has a dual role in stimulating the production of OS and producing mitochondrial dysfunction. However, it can also help indirectly decrease the systemic OS induced by inflammation. Medicaments used to treat neurodegenerative diseases tend to decrease the mechanisms related to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and balance OS. On the other hand, immunosuppressive treatments used in cancer or human immunodeficiency virus infection increase the production of ROS, causing significant oxidative damage in different organs and systems without widely documented exogenous antioxidant administration alternatives.

Nitric oxide metabolism is impaired by type 1 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy

Diabetes leads to reduced nitric oxide bioavailability, resulting in endothelial dysfunction. However, overproduction of nitric oxide due to hyperglycaemia is associated with oxidative stress and tissue damage. The objective of this study was to characterise nitric oxide production (NO) and added nitrite and nitrate (NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^-) concentration in the blood and urine of patients with and without diabetic nephropathy. A total of 268 patients with type 1 diabetes and 69 healthy subjects were included. Diabetic nephropathy was defined as macroalbuminuria and/or estimated glomerular filtration rate below 60 ml/min/1.73 cm². NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- concentration was measured by Griess reaction. Production of NO was detected by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Blood NO was demonstrated to be higher (P<0.001) and serum NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- was lower (P=0.003) in patients with type 1 diabetes and no nephropathy vs. healthy subjects. However, serum NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- concentration in patients with diabetes and nephropathy did not differ from the levels observed in healthy controls. Urine excretion of NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- was significantly decreased in patients with nephropathy, compared with patients without diabetic kidney disease (P=0.006) and healthy subjects (P=0.010). A significant positive correlation was observed between urine NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- and estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with type 1 diabetes (P=0.002) and healthy subjects (P=0.008). Estimated glomerular filtration rate, albuminuria and diabetic nephropathy status were significant predictors of the whole blood NO and NO₂ ^-+NO₃ ^- in serum and urine in patients with type 1 diabetes, as identified by linear regression models. The present study concludes that NO metabolism is impaired by type 1 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy.

The Effect of N-Acetylcysteine on Respiratory Enzymes, ADP/ATP Ratio, Glutathione Metabolism, and Nitrosative Stress in the Salivary Gland Mitochondria of Insulin Resistant Rats

This is the first study to assess the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the mitochondrial respiratory system, as well as free radical production, glutathione metabolism, nitrosative stress, and apoptosis in the salivary gland mitochondria of rats with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced insulin resistance (IR). The study was conducted on male Wistar rats divided into four groups of 10 animals each: C (control, rats fed a standard diet containing 10.3% fat), C + NAC (rats fed a standard diet, receiving NAC intragastrically), HFD (rats fed a high-fat diet containing 59.8% fat), and HFD + NAC (rats fed HFD diet, receiving NAC intragastrically). We confirmed that 8 weeks of HFD induces systemic IR as well as disturbances in mitochondrial complexes of the parotid and submandibular glands of rats. NAC supplementation leads to a significant increase in the activity of complex I, II + III and cytochrome c oxidase (COX), and also reduces the ADP/ATP ratio compared to HFD rats. Furthermore, NAC reduces the hydrogen peroxide production/activity of pro-oxidant enzymes, increases the pool of mitochondrial glutathione, and prevents cytokine formation, apoptosis, and nitrosative damage to the mitochondria in both aforementioned salivary glands of HFD rats. To sum up, NAC supplementation enhances energy metabolism in the salivary glands of IR rats, and prevents inflammation, apoptosis, and nitrosative stress.

Ethyl Vanillin Protects against Kidney Injury in Diabetic Nephropathy by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis

Diabetes-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis is regarded as a critical role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Treating diabetes-induced kidney damage and renal dysfunction has been thought a promising therapeutic option to attenuate the development and progression of DN. In this study, we investigated the renoprotective effect of ethyl vanillin (EVA), an active analogue of vanillin isolated from vanilla beans, on streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced rat renal injury model and high glucose-induced NRK-52E cell model. The EVA treatment could strongly improve the deterioration of renal function and kidney cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, treating with EVA significantly decreased the level of MDA and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and stabilized antioxidant enzyme system in response to oxidative stress by enhancing the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, EVA also markedly suppressed cleaved caspase-3, Bax, and nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) expression in STZ-induced rats. Therefore, these results of our investigation provided that EVA might protect against kidney injury in DN by inhibiting oxidative stress and cell apoptosis.

Association of Serum Markers of Oxidative Stress With Incident Major Cardiovascular Events, Cancer Incidence, and All-Cause Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes Patients: Pooled Results From Two Cohort Studies

OBJECTIVE

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, associations of biomarkers of oxidative stress with diabetes complications have not yet been addressed in large cohort studies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) levels, a proxy for the reactive oxygen species burden, and total thiol levels (TTLs), a proxy for the reductive capacity, were measured in 2,125 patients with T2DM from two German cohort studies of almost equal size at baseline and 3-4 years later. Multivariable adjusted Cox proportional hazards models with time-dependent modeled d-ROMs levels and TTLs were used to assess the associations with incident major cardiovascular events (MCE), cancer incidence, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

In total, 205, 179, and 394 MCE, cancer, and all-cause mortality cases were observed during 6-7 years of follow-up, respectively. Both oxidative stress biomarkers and the d-ROMs-to-TTL ratio were statistically significantly associated with all-cause mortality in both cohorts, and the pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for top versus bottom tertiles were 2.10 (95% CI 1.43, 3.09) for d-ROMs levels, 0.59 (0.40, 0.87) for TTLs, and 2.50 (1.86, 3.36) for d-ROMs-to-TTL ratio. The d-ROMs-to-TTL ratio was also statistically significantly associated with incident MCE for top versus bottom tertile (1.65 [1.07, 2.54]), but this association did not persist after additional adjustment for chronic diseases. No associations with cancer were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The observed strong associations of both biomarkers with mortality suggest an important contribution of an imbalanced redox system to the premature mortality of patients with diabetes.

Effects of coffee consumption on glucose metabolism: A systematic review of clinical trials

Epidemiological studies indicate an inverse association of coffee consumption with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, studies to determine the clinical effects of coffee consumption on the glucose metabolism biomarkers remain uncertain. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of coffee consumption on glucose metabolism. A search of electronic databases (PubMed and Web of Science) was performed identifying studies published until September 2017. Eight clinical trials (n = 247 subjects) were identified for analyses. Participants and studies characteristics, main findings, and study quality (Jadad Score) were reported. Short-term (1-3 h) and long-term (2-16 weeks) studies were summarized separately. Short-term studies showed that consumption of caffeinated coffee may increase the area under the curve for glucose response, while for long-term studies, caffeinated coffee may improve the glycaemic metabolism by reducing the glucose curve and increasing the insulin response. The findings suggest that consumption of caffeinated coffee may lead to unfavourable acute effects; however, an improvement on glucose metabolism was found on long-term follow-up.

Antioxidant activity, α-glucosidase inhibition and phytochemical profiling of Hyophorbe lagenicaulis leaf extracts

Background

Diabetes mellitus type II (DMT-2) is a widely spread metabolic disorder both in developed and developing countries. The role of oxidative stress is well established in DMT-2 pathogenesis. The synthetic drugs for DMT-2 are associated with serious side complications. Antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory actions of phytochemicals from various plant species are considered as an alternative to synthetic drugs for DMT-2 management. The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity, α-glucosidase inhibitory potential and phytochemical profiling of Hyophorbe lagenicaulis.

Methods

The total phenolic and flavonoid contents, in vitro antioxidant activity (α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and phosphomolybdenum method) and α-glucosidase inhibition of ultrasonicated hydroethanolic H. lagenicaulis leaf extracts were determined spectrophotometrically. The results of DPPH assay and α-glucosidase inhibition were reported in terms of IC₅₀ value. The phytochemical profiling was accomplished by UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS/MS technique.

Results and Discussion

Findings leaped 60% ethanolic extract as rich fraction regarding total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The 60% ethanolic fraction was a promising source of natural antioxidants and α-glucosidase inhibitory agents as indicated by anti-radical and enzyme inibitory activities. Kaempferol, rutin, hesperetin 5-O-glucoside, kaempferol-coumaroyl-glucoside, luteolin 3-glucoside, Isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside, trimethoxyflavone derivatives and citric acid were identified by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. These compounds were believed to be responsible for the strong antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity of plant extracts. The extensive metabolite profiling of H. lagenicaulis was carried out the first time as never reported previously. The H. lagenicaulis might be an appropriate choice to manage diabetes mellitus in an alternate way. The findings may be further exploited extensively for toxicity evaluation to proceed with functional food development having antidiabetic attributes.

Urinary nucleic acid oxidation product levels show differential associations with pharmacological treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes

The relationship between RNA and DNA oxidation and pharmacological treatment has not been systematically investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to investigate the association between pharmacological treatments and levels of urinary markers of nucleic acid oxidation in T2D patients. Vejle Diabetes Biobank cohort data was nested into nationwide registry data. Multiple logistic regression was used to associate drug usage with risk of high (above median) RNA and DNA oxidation. Data from 2664 T2D patients (64% male, age range: 25-75) were included. Questionnaire-validated lipid lowering drug use was associated with low RNA oxidation (Odds ratio, OR 0.71, 95% CI: [0.59-0.87]). Insulin and non-specific antidiabetic drugs were associated with low DNA oxidation (insulin: OR 0.60, 95% CI [0.49-0.73]). Oral antidiabetics were associated with high DNA oxidation and RNA oxidation (OR 1.30, 95% CI [1.10-1.53] and OR 1.26, 95% CI [1.07-1.29]). Our findings indicate that diabetes-related drugs are associated with RNA and DNA oxidation and further studies are required to determine causality in T2D patients.

Relationships between the diabetes awareness and clinical indices/nutrient intakes in Korean adults: Based on the 2012-2013 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Diabetes is diagnosed after an average of 10-12 years of diabetic development. Strict glycemic control in diabetic patients promotes the normalization of blood glucose and reduces cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetic complications. Therefore, early diagnosis in non-aware individuals is very important.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Clinical indices and nutrient intakes in Korean diabetic adults aged 19-64 years were examined according to the awareness of diabetes, using 2012 and 2013 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) data. The aware group was defined as individuals who were aware of having diabetes from diagnosis by physician before the survey and the non-aware group as individuals who were not aware of having diabetes.

RESULTS

The average age was higher in the aware group compared to the non-aware group in both men (P = 0.002) and women (P = 0.004). The prevalences of hypertension and dyslipidemia were not different between the two groups, but the diagnosis rate was significantly lower in the non-aware group. In the non-aware group, total and LDL-cholesterol were significantly higher (P < 0.001), the risk for total cholesterol over 240 mg/dL was 3.4 times (95% CI: 1.58-7.52) higher (P = 0.002) and the risk for LDL-cholesterol over 160 mg/dL was 4.59 times (95% CI: 2.07-10.17) higher (P < 0.001). The calorie intake of the female non-aware group was significantly higher compared to the female aware group (P = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that the recommendation of screening test is necessary even for young adults. Studies on the methodology for early diagnosis of diabetes are also needed.

Golden sea cucumber extract revives glucose transporter-4 and interleukin-6 protein level in diabetic mouse muscle

Background:

Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced free radical oxidant activity resulted in muscle wasting due to protein carbonyl (PC), glucose transporter-4 (Glut-4), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) protein alteration. Antioxidant ingredient in the golden sea cucumber extract was found in promising level to inhibit free radical activity.

Aim:

This study was aimed to investigate the effect of golden sea cucumber extract on PC, IL-6, and Glut-4 level of STZ-induced diabetes mouse.

Materials and Methods:

This study was performed using mice, which were grouped into non-diabetes, diabetes, and diabetes-treated extract groups. The golden sea cucumber was extracted using 70% ethanol, which was administered by oral gavage twice a day for 5 consecutive days.

Results:

The extract reduced PC level and improved muscle Glut-4 and IL-6 protein level of diabetic mouse.

Conclusion:

The extract of golden sea cucumber revived muscle Glut-4 and IL-6 protein level in protection against muscle wasting.