Recent Advances in Cellular Signaling Interplay between Redox Metabolism and Autophagy Modulation in Cancer: An Overview of Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Interventions

Crosstalk Between Autophagy and Oxidative Stress in Hematological Malignancies: Mechanisms, Implications, and Therapeutic Potential

Autophagy is a fundamental cellular process that maintains homeostasis by degrading damaged components and regulating stress responses. It plays a crucial role in cancer biology, including tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Oxidative stress, similarly, is key to maintaining cellular balance by regulating oxidants and antioxidants, with its disruption leading to molecular damage. The interplay between autophagy and oxidative stress is particularly significant, as reactive oxygen species (ROS) act as both inducers and by-products of autophagy. While autophagy can function as a tumor suppressor in early cancer stages, it often shifts to a pro-tumorigenic role in advanced disease, aiding cancer cell survival under adverse conditions such as hypoxia and nutrient deprivation. This dual role is mediated by several signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMPK, and HIF-1α, which coordinate the balance between autophagic activity and ROS production. In this review, we explore the mechanisms by which autophagy and oxidative stress interact across different hematological malignancies. We discuss how oxidative stress triggers autophagy, creating a feedback loop that promotes tumor survival, and how autophagic dysregulation leads to increased ROS accumulation, exacerbating tumorigenesis. We also examine the therapeutic implications of targeting the autophagy-oxidative stress axis in cancer. Current strategies involve modulating autophagy through specific inhibitors, enhancing ROS levels with pro-oxidant compounds, and combining these approaches with conventional therapies to overcome drug resistance. Understanding the complex relationship between autophagy and oxidative stress provides critical insights into novel therapeutic strategies aimed at improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Targeting natural antioxidant polyphenols to protect neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases: a comprehensive review

Polyphenols, naturally occurring phytonutrients found in plant-based foods, have attracted significant attention for their potential therapeutic effects in neurological diseases and neuroinflammation. These compounds possess diverse neuroprotective capabilities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloid properties, which contribute to mitigating the progression of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Parkinson's Disease (PD), Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Stroke, and Huntington's Disease (HD). Polyphenols have been extensively studied for their ability to regulate inflammatory responses by modulating the activity of pro-inflammatory genes and influencing signal transduction pathways, thereby reducing neuroinflammation and neuronal death. Additionally, polyphenols have shown promise in modulating various cellular signaling pathways associated with neuronal viability, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function. Epidemiological and clinical studies highlight the potential of polyphenol-rich diets to decrease the risk and alleviate symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, polyphenols have demonstrated their therapeutic potential through the regulation of key signaling pathways such as Akt, Nrf2, STAT, and MAPK, which play critical roles in neuroprotection and the body's immune response. This review emphasizes the growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of polyphenols in combating neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, as well as enhancing brain health. Despite the substantial evidence and promising hypotheses, further research and clinical investigations are necessary to fully understand the role of polyphenols and establish them as advanced therapeutic targets for age-related neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammatory conditions.

Enhancing Soybean Salt Tolerance with GSNO and Silicon: A Comprehensive Physiological, Biochemical, and Genetic Study

Soil salinity is a major global challenge affecting agricultural productivity and food security. This study explores innovative strategies to improve salt tolerance in soybean (Glycine max), a crucial crop in the global food supply. This study investigates the synergistic effects of S-nitroso glutathione (GSNO) and silicon on enhancing salt tolerance in soybean (Glycine max). Two soybean cultivars, Seonpung (salt-tolerant) and Cheongja (salt-sensitive), were analyzed for various physiological, biochemical, and genetic traits under salt stress. The results showed that the combined GSNO and Si treatment significantly improved several key traits, including plant height, relative water content, root development, nodule numbers, chlorophyll content, and stomatal aperture, under both control and salt stress conditions. Additionally, this treatment optimized ion homeostasis by enhancing the Na/K ratio and Ca content, while reducing damage markers such as electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, and hydrogen peroxide. The stress-responsive compounds, including proline, ascorbate peroxidase, and water-soluble proteins, were elevated under stress conditions, indicating improved tolerance. Gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes such as GmNHX1, GmSOS2, and GmAKT1, associated with salt stress response, while GmNIP2.1, GmNIP2.2, and GmLBR were downregulated in both varieties. Notably, the salt-sensitive variety Cheongja exhibited higher electrolyte leakage and oxidative damage compared to the salt-tolerant Seonpung. These findings suggest that the combination of GSNO and silicon enhances salt tolerance in soybean by improving physiological resilience, ion homeostasis, and stress-responsive gene expression.

Advancements in Autophagy Modulation for the Management of Oral Disease: A Focus on Drug Targets and Therapeutics

Autophagy is an intrinsic breakdown system that recycles organelles and macromolecules, which influences metabolic pathways, differentiation, and thereby cell survival. Oral health is an essential component of integrated well-being, and it is critical for developing therapeutic interventions to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the maintenance of oral homeostasis. However, because of the complex dynamic relationship between autophagy and oral health, associated treatment modalities have not yet been well elucidated. Determining how autophagy affects oral health at the molecular level may enhance the understanding of prevention and treatment of targeted oral diseases. At the molecular level, hard and soft oral tissues develop because of complex interactions between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Aging contributes to the progression of various oral disorders including periodontitis, oral cancer, and periapical lesions during aging. Autophagy levels decrease with age, thus indicating a possible association between autophagy and oral disorders with aging. In this review, we critically review various aspects of autophagy and their significance in the context of various oral diseases including oral cancer, periapical lesions, periodontal conditions, and candidiasis. A better understanding of autophagy and its underlying mechanisms can guide us to develop new preventative and therapeutic strategies for the management of oral diseases.

New Emerging Therapeutic Strategies Based on Manipulation of the Redox Regulation Against Therapy Resistance in Cancer

Background: Resistance to standard therapeutic methods, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, remains a critical challenge in effective cancer treatment. Redox homeostasis modification has emerged as a promising approach to address medication resistance. Objective: This review aims to explore the mechanisms of redox alterations and signaling pathways contributing to treatment resistance in cancer. Methods: In this study, a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms underlying drug resistance governed by redox signaling was conducted. Emphasis was placed on understanding how tumor cells manage increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels through upregulated antioxidant systems, enabling resistance across multiple therapeutic pathways. Results: Key mechanisms identified include alterations in drug efflux, target modifications, metabolic changes, enhanced DNA damage repair, stemness preservation, and tumor microenvironment remodeling. These pathways collectively facilitate tumor cells' adaptive response and resistance to various cancer treatments. Conclusion: Developing a detailed understanding of the interrelationships between these redox-regulated mechanisms and therapeutic resistance holds potential to improve treatment effectiveness, offering valuable insights for both fundamental and clinical cancer research. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 00, 000-000.

ZnO NPs Impair the Viability and Function of Porcine Granulosa Cells Through Autophagy Regulated by ROS Production

The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) is one of the most extensively utilized metal oxide nanoparticles in biomedicine, human food, cosmetics and livestock farming. However, growing evidence suggests that there is a potential risk for humans and animals because of the accumulation of ZnO NPs in cells, which leads to cell death through several different pathways. Nevertheless, the effects of ZnO NPs on porcine granulosa cells (PGCs) and how ZnO NPs regulate the follicular cells are unknown. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of ZnO NPs in the porcine ovary by using PGCs. Firstly, we identified the characterization of ZnO NPs used in this study and the results showed that the size of ZnO NPs was 29.0 nm. The results also demonstrated that ZnO NPs impaired cell viability and decreased steroid hormone secretion in PGCs. In addition, ZnO NPs induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to oxidative stress of PGCs. Meanwhile, ZnO NPs also triggered autophagy in PGCs by increasing the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I, along with the expression of SQSTM1 and ATG7. Finally, the results from N-acetylcysteine (NAC) addition suggested that ZnO NPs promoted autophagy through the enhancement of ROS production. In summary, this study demonstrates that ZnO NPs impair the viability and function of PGCs through autophagy, which is regulated by ROS production.

Apigenin as a Promising Agent for Enhancing Female Reproductive Function and Treating Associated Disorders

Apigenin is an organic flavonoid abundant in some plants such as parsley, chamomile, or celery. Recently, it has been investigated for several of its pharmacological characteristics, such as its ability to act as an antioxidant, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The purpose of this review is to provide a summary of the existing knowledge regarding the effects of apigenin on female reproductive systems and its dysfunctions. Apigenin can influence reproductive processes by regulating multiple biological events, including oxidative processes, cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell renewal and viability, ovarian blood supply, and the release of reproductive hormones. It could stimulate ovarian folliculogenesis, as well as ovarian and embryonal cell proliferation and viability, which can lead to an increase in fertility and influence the release of reproductive hormones, which may exert its effects on female reproductive health. Furthermore, apigenin could inhibit the activities of ovarian cancer cells and alleviate the pathological changes in the female reproductive system caused by environmental pollutants, harmful medications, cancer, polycystic ovarian syndrome, ischemia, as well as endometriosis. Therefore, apigenin may have potential as a biostimulator for female reproductive processes and as a therapeutic agent for certain reproductive diseases.

Cytotoxic effects of NIR responsive chitosan-polymersome layer coated melatonin-upconversion nanoparticles on HGC27 and AGS gastric cancer cells: Role of the ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

In this study, a formulation of NaGdF4:Tm/Er@NaGdF4 (core@shell) UCNPs loaded with melatonin drug was synthesized. The novel melatonin-loaded UCNPs were then encapsulated within NIR-responsive biopolymeric chitosan (CS) based polymersome and investigated against gastric cancer (HGC27 & AGS) cells. The photolysis of the ONB moiety and disruption of the disulfide linkage in the polymersome induced by NIR light facilitated by the NaGdF4:Tm/Er@NaGdF4 UCNPs and GSH results in an increased release of melatonin drug. The DLS and zeta potential measurements exhibit a reduced particle size (21.9 ± 3.56 nm) and a low zeta potential (17.91 mV). Furthermore, drug release profiles demonstrated superior melatonin drug release (79.78 %) at pH 5.0 for CS-polymersome-coated melatonin-UCNPs resembling the Hixson-Crowell model. Remarkably, CS-polymersome-coated melatonin-UCNPs exhibit excellent anti-proliferative properties for HGC27 (IC50 = 0.096 μM) and AGS (IC50 = 0.16 μM) cancer cells. The flow cytometry data demonstrate a significant elevation in ROS levels which promoted cell death in both HGC-27 and AGS cells. The observed cell mortality in HGC-27 and AGS cells is primarily caused by the destruction of the nucleus, mtDNA, rupture of disulfide (R-S-S-R) bonds, and nuclear DNA. Contrarily, L929 and HUVECs cells incubated with CS-polymersome coated melatonin-UCNPs (100 μg/mL) reveal a notable cell viability of 88.7 % and 93 % indicating superior biocompatibility. The western blotting analysis revealed the induction of autophagy by CS-polymersome-coated melatonin-UCNPs which subsequently led to apoptosis by regulating the ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR molecular signaling pathway.

Flavonoids as modulators of miRNA expression in pancreatic cancer: Pathways, Mechanisms, And Therapeutic Potential

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a complex malignancy, distinguished by its aggressive characteristics and unfavorable prognosis. Recent developments in understanding the molecular foundations of this disease have brought attention to the noteworthy involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in disease development, advancement, and treatment resistance. The anticancer capabilities of flavonoids, which are a wide range of phytochemicals present in fruits and vegetables, have attracted considerable interest because of their ability to regulate miRNA expression. This review provides the effects of flavonoids on miRNA expression in PC, explains the underlying processes, and explores the possible therapeutic benefits of flavonoid-based therapies. Flavonoids inhibit PC cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and enhance chemosensitivity via the modulation of miRNAs involved in carcinogenesis. Additionally, this review emphasizes the significance of certain miRNAs as targets of flavonoid action. These miRNAs have a role in regulating important signaling pathways such as the phosphoinositide-3-kinase-protein kinase B/Protein kinase B (Akt), mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT), and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the interaction between flavonoids and miRNAs in PC, providing a comprehensive analysis of how flavonoid-mediated modulation of miRNA expression could influence cancer progression and therapy. It highlights the use of flavonoid nanoformulations to enhance stability, increase absorption, and maximize anti-PC activity, improving patient outcomes. The review calls for further research to optimize the use of flavonoid nanoformulations in clinical trials, leading to innovative treatment strategies and more effective approaches for PC.

Synthesis and Biochemical Evaluation of Ethanoanthracenes and Related Compounds: Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effects in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignancy of mature B cells, and it is the most frequent form of leukemia diagnosed in Western countries. It is characterized by the proliferation and accumulation of neoplastic B lymphocytes in the blood, lymph nodes, bone marrow and spleen. We report the synthesis and antiproliferative effects of a series of novel ethanoanthracene compounds in CLL cell lines. Structural modifications were achieved via the Diels-Alder reaction of 9-(2-nitrovinyl)anthracene and 3-(anthracen-9-yl)-1-arylprop-2-en-1-ones (anthracene chalcones) with dienophiles, including maleic anhydride and N-substituted maleimides, to afford a series of 9-(E)-(2-nitrovinyl)-9,10-dihydro-9,10-[3,4]epipyrroloanthracene-12,14-diones, 9-(E)-3-oxo-3-phenylprop-1-en-1-yl)-9,10-dihydro-9,10-[3,4]epipyrroloanthracene-12,14-diones and related compounds. Single-crystal X-ray analysis confirmed the structures of the novel ethanoanthracenes 23f, 23h, 24a, 24g, 25f and 27. The products were evaluated in HG-3 and PGA-1 CLL cell lines (representative of poor and good patient prognosis, respectively). The most potent compounds were identified as 20a, 20f, 23a and 25n with IC50 values in the ranges of 0.17-2.69 µM (HG-3) and 0.35-1.97 µM (PGA-1). The pro-apoptotic effects of the potent compounds 20a, 20f, 23a and 25n were demonstrated in CLL cell lines HG-3 (82-95%) and PGA-1 (87-97%) at 10 µM, with low toxicity (12-16%) observed in healthy-donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at concentrations representative of the compounds IC50 values for both the HG-3 and PGA-1 CLL cell lines. The antiproliferative effect of the selected compounds, 20a, 20f, 23a and 25n, was mediated through ROS flux with a marked increase in cell viability upon pretreatment with the antioxidant NAC. 25n also demonstrated sub-micromolar activity in the NCI 60 cancer cell line panel, with a mean GI50 value of 0.245 µM. This ethanoanthracene series of compounds offers potential for the further development of lead structures as novel chemotherapeutics to target CLL.

Advancements in Utilizing Natural Compounds for Modulating Autophagy in Liver Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets

Autophagy, an intrinsic catabolic mechanism that eliminates misfolded proteins, dysfunctional organelles, and lipid droplets, plays a vital function in energy balance and cytoplasmic quality control, in addition to maintaining cellular homeostasis. Liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths globally and shows resistance to several anticancer drugs. Despite the rising incidence and poor prognosis of malignant HCC, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving this aggressive cancer remain unclear. Several natural compounds, such as phytochemicals of dietary and non-dietary origin, affect hepatocarcinogenesis signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, which may help prevent and treat HCC cells. Current HCC cells treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, these standard therapies have substantial side effects, and combination therapy enhances side effects for an acceptable therapeutic benefit. Therefore, there is a need to develop treatment strategies for HCC cells that are more efficacious and have fewer adverse effects. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors are responsible for the HCC cells to become resistant to standard treatment. Autophagy contributes to maintain cellular homeostasis, which activates autophagy for biosynthesis and mitochondrial regulation and recycling. Therefore, modifying autophagic signaling would present a promising opportunity to identify novel therapies to treat HCC cells resistant to current standard treatments. This comprehensive review illustrates how natural compounds demonstrate their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma function through autophagy.

Coffee Bean and Its Chemical Constituent Caffeine and Chlorogenic Acid as Promising Chemoprevention Agents: Updated Biological Studies against Cancer Cells

Cancer is a complicated and ever-evolving disease that remains a significant global cause of disease and mortality. Its complexity, which is evident at the genetic and phenotypic levels, contributes to its diversity and resistance to treatment. Numerous scientific investigations on human and animal models demonstrate the potential of phytochemicals in cancer prevention. Coffee has been shown to possess potent anti-carcinogenic properties, and studies have documented the consumption of coffee as a beverage reduces the risk of cancer occurrence. The major secondary metabolites of coffee, named caffeine and chlorogenic acid, have been linked to anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic effects through various signaling. In light of this, this review article provides a comprehensive analysis based on studies in anticancer effects of coffee, chlorogenic acid, and caffeine published between 2010 and 2023, sourced from Scopus, Pubmed, and Google Scholar databases. We summarize recent advances and scientific evidence on the association of phytochemicals found in coffee with a special emphasis on their biological activities against cancer and their molecular mechanism deemed potential to be used as a novel therapeutic target for cancer prevention and therapy.

Exploring Importance and Regulation of Autophagy in Cancer Stem Cells and Stem Cell-Based Therapies

Autophagy is a globally conserved cellular activity that plays a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis through the breakdown and recycling of cellular constituents. In recent years, there has been much emphasis given to its complex role in cancer stem cells (CSCs) and stem cell treatment. This study examines the molecular processes that support autophagy and how it is regulated in the context of CSCs and stem cell treatment. Although autophagy plays a dual role in the management of CSCs, affecting their removal as well as their maintenance, the intricate interaction between the several signaling channels that control cellular survival and death as part of the molecular mechanism of autophagy has not been well elucidated. Given that CSCs have a role in the development, progression, and resistance to treatment of tumors, it is imperative to comprehend their biological activities. CSCs are important for cancer biology because they also show a tissue regeneration model that helps with organoid regeneration. In other words, the manipulation of autophagy is a viable therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer and stem cell therapy. Both synthetic and natural substances that target autophagy pathways have demonstrated promise in improving stem cell-based therapies and eliminating CSCs. Nevertheless, there are difficulties associated with the limitations of autophagy in CSC regulation, including resistance mechanisms and off-target effects. Thus, the regulation of autophagy offers a versatile strategy for focusing on CSCs and enhancing the results of stem cell therapy. Therefore, understanding the complex interactions between autophagy and CSC biology would be essential for creating therapeutic treatments that work in both regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.

Probiotic-derived silver nanoparticles target mTOR/MMP-9/BCL-2/dependent AMPK activation for hepatic cancer treatment

Recent advances in nanotechnology have offered novel ways to combat cancer. By utilizing the reducing capabilities of Lactobacillus acidophilus, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized. The anti-cancer properties of AgNPs have been demonstrated in previous studies against several cancer cell lines; it has been hypothesized that these compounds might inhibit AMPK/mTOR signalling and BCL-2 expression. Consequently, the current research used both in vitro and in silico approaches to study whether Lactobacillus acidophilus AgNPs could inhibit cell proliferation autophagy and promote apoptosis in HepG2 cells. The isolated strain was identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus strain RBIM based on 16 s rRNA gene analysis. Based on our research findings, it has been observed that this particular strain can generate increased quantities of AgNPs when subjected to optimal growing conditions. The presence of silanols, carboxylates, phosphonates, and siloxanes on the surface of AgNPs was confirmed using FTIR analysis. AgNPs were configured using UV-visible spectroscopy at 425 nm. In contrast, it was observed that apoptotic cells exhibited orange-coloured bodies due to cellular shrinkage and blebbing initiated by AgNP treatment, compared to non-apoptotic cells. It is worth mentioning that AgNPs exhibited remarkable selectivity in inducing cell death, specifically in HepG2 cells, unlike normal WI-38 cells. The half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for HepG2 and WI-38 cells were 4.217 µg/ml and 154.1 µg/ml, respectively. AgNPs induce an upregulation in the synthesis of inflammation-associated cytokines, including (TNF-α and IL-33), within HepG2 cells. AgNPs co-treatment led to higher glutathione levels and activating pro-autophagic genes such as AMPK.Additionally, it resulted in the suppression of mTOR, MMP-9, BCL-2, and α-SMA gene expression. The docking experiments suggest that the binding of AgNPs to the active site of the AMPK enzyme leads to inhibiting its activity. The inhibition of AMPK ultimately results in the suppression of the mechanistic mTOR and triggers apoptosis in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the results of our study indicate that the utilization of AgNPs may represent a viable strategy for the eradication of liver cancerous cells through the activation of apoptosis and the enhancement of immune system reactions.

Mitochondrial Glutathione in Cellular Redox Homeostasis and Disease Manifestation

Mitochondria are critical for providing energy to maintain cell viability. Oxidative phosphorylation involves the transfer of electrons from energy substrates to oxygen to produce adenosine triphosphate. Mitochondria also regulate cell proliferation, metastasis, and deterioration. The flow of electrons in the mitochondrial respiratory chain generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are harmful to cells at high levels. Oxidative stress caused by ROS accumulation has been associated with an increased risk of cancer, and cardiovascular and liver diseases. Glutathione (GSH) is an abundant cellular antioxidant that is primarily synthesized in the cytoplasm and delivered to the mitochondria. Mitochondrial glutathione (mGSH) metabolizes hydrogen peroxide within the mitochondria. A long-term imbalance in the ratio of mitochondrial ROS to mGSH can cause cell dysfunction, apoptosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis, which may lead to disease. This study aimed to review the physiological functions, anabolism, variations in organ tissue accumulation, and delivery of GSH to the mitochondria and the relationships between mGSH levels, the GSH/GSH disulfide (GSSG) ratio, programmed cell death, and ferroptosis. We also discuss diseases caused by mGSH deficiency and related therapeutics.

Phellinus merrillii extracts induce apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways

Restenosis frequently occurs after balloon angioplasty. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-induced artery damage is a significant part of triggering restenosis of the vascular smooth muscles (VSMC). This study aimed to study how ethanol extract of Phellinus merrillii (EPM) affected balloon injury-induced overgrowth of VSMC, indicating neointima formation. Firstly, our results demonstrated that EPM notably decreased VSMC viability. A fragmentation assay and Annexin V/Propidium Iodide apoptosis assay showed that higher doses of EPM significantly induced the apoptosis of VSMC after 24 h of exposure. Total protein extracted from VSMC treated with EPM in various time and concentration periods was then conducted in Western blotting analysis. Our data demonstrated that EPM substantially elevated the p53, p21, Fas, Bax, p-p38, and active caspase-3 protein expressions. The results indicated that EPM induces VSMC apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Also, our results demonstrated that EPM effectively attenuated the balloon injury-induced neointima formation. In conclusion, the information offers a mechanism of EPM in inducing the VSMC apoptosis, thus as a potential interference for restenosis.

Enhancing Anticancer Efficacy of Formononetin Microspheres via Microfluidic Fabrication

Formononetin is a flavonoid compound with anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its low solubility limits its clinical use. We employed microfluidic technology to prepare formononetin-loaded PLGA-PEGDA microspheres (Degradable polymer PLGA, Crosslinking agent PEGDA), which can encapsulate and release drugs in a controlled manner. We optimized and characterized the microspheres, and evaluated their antitumor effects. The microspheres had uniform size, high drug loading efficiency, high encapsulation efficiency, and stable release for 35 days. They also inhibited the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. The antitumor mechanism involved the induction of reactive oxygen species and modulation of Bcl-2 family proteins. These findings suggested that formononetin-loaded PLGA-PEGDA microspheres, created using microfluidic technology, could be a novel drug delivery system that can overcome the limitations of formononetin and enhance its antitumor activity.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of crocin on the doxorubicin mediated hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

Doxorubicin (DXR) is widely used in cancer treatment. However, it has not yet been possible to prevent the side effects of DXR. The aim of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of crocin against DXR used in cancer treatment. For this reason; forty Wistar rats (male-250-300 g) were allocated into four groups (n = 10/group): Control, Crocin, DXR and DXR+Crocin. Control and Crocin groups were administered saline and crocin (40 mg/kg, i.p) for 15 days, respectively. DXR group, cumulative dose 12 mg/kg DXR, was administered for 12 days via 48 h intervals in six injections (2 mg/kg each, i.p). DXR+Crocin group, crocin (40 mg/kg-i.p) was administered for 15 days, and DXR was given as in the DXR group. The results revealed that serum liver markers (alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased significantly after DXR administration but recovered after crocin therapy. In addition, lipid peroxidation (MDA), and inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) increased after DXR application and the antioxidative defense system (GSH, SOD, CAT) significantly decreased and re-achieved by crocin treatment. Our results conclude that crocin treatment was related to ameliorated hepatocellular architecture and reduced hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in rats with DXR-induced hepatotoxicity.

Dynamics of redox signaling in aging via autophagy, inflammation, and senescence

Review paper attempts to explain the dynamic aspects of redox signaling in aging through autophagy, inflammation, and senescence. It begins with ROS source in the cell, then states redox signaling in autophagy, and regulation of autophagy in aging. Next, we discuss inflammation and redox signaling with various pathways involved: NOX pathway, ROS production via TNF-α, IL-1β, xanthine oxidase pathway, COX pathway, and myeloperoxidase pathway. Also, we emphasize oxidative damage as an aging marker and the contribution of pathophysiological factors to aging. In senescence-associated secretory phenotypes, we link ROS with senescence, aging disorders. Relevant crosstalk between autophagy, inflammation, and senescence using a balanced ROS level might reduce age-related disorders. Transducing the context-dependent signal communication among these three processes at high spatiotemporal resolution demands other tools like multi-omics aging biomarkers, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. The bewildering advancement of technology in the above areas might progress age-related disorders diagnostics with precision and accuracy.