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Gong G, Ganesan K, Wan Y, Liu Y, Huang Y, Luo Y, Wang X, Zhang Z, Zheng Y. Unveiling the neuroprotective properties of isoflavones: current evidence, molecular mechanisms and future perspectives. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-37. [PMID: 38794836 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2357701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases encompass a wide range of debilitating and incurable brain disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of the nervous system's structure and function. Isoflavones, which are naturally occurring polyphenolic phytochemicals, have been found to regulate various cellular signaling pathways associated with the nervous system. The main objective of this comprehensive review is to explore the neuroprotective effects of isoflavones, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and assess their potential for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Relevant data regarding isoflavones and their impact on neurodegenerative diseases were gathered from multiple library databases and electronic sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct. Numerous isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, biochanin A, and formononetin, have exhibited potent neuroprotective properties against various neurodegenerative diseases. These compounds have been found to modulate neurotransmitters, which in turn contributes to their ability to protect against neurodegeneration. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have provided evidence of their neuroprotection mechanisms, which involve interactions with estrogenic receptors, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-apoptotic activity, and modulation of neural plasticity. This review aims to provide current insights into the neuroprotective characteristics of isoflavones and shed light on their potential therapeutic applications in future clinical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Kumar Ganesan
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yukai Wan
- Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqun Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Yongping Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Yuting Luo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Xuexu Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Zhenxia Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
| | - Yuzhong Zheng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, China
- Guangdong East Drug and Food and Health Branch, Chaozhou, China
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Chamorro B, Izquierdo-Bermejo S, Martín-de-Saavedra MD, López-Muñoz F, Chioua M, Marco-Contelles J, Oset-Gasque MJ. Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Properties of CholesteroNitrone ChN2 and QuinolylNitrone QN23 in an Experimental Model of Cerebral Ischemia: Involvement of Necrotic and Apoptotic Cell Death. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1364. [PMID: 37507904 PMCID: PMC10376237 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. However, current therapeutic strategies are scarce and of limited efficacy. The abundance of information available on the molecular pathophysiology of ischemic stroke has sparked considerable interest in developing new neuroprotective agents that can target different events of the ischemic cascade and may be used in combination with existing treatments. In this regard, nitrones represent a very promising alternative due to their renowned antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we aimed to further investigate the neuroprotective effects of two nitrones, cholesteronitrone 2 (ChN2) and quinolylnitrone 23 (QN23), which have previously shown great potential for the treatment of stroke. Using an experimental in vitro model of cerebral ischemia, we compared their anti-necrotic, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant properties with those of three reference compounds. Both ChN2 and QN23 demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects (EC50 = 0.66 ± 0.23 μM and EC50 = 2.13 ± 0.47 μM, respectively) comparable to those of homo-bis-nitrone 6 (HBN6) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and superior to those of α-phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone (PBN). While primarily derived from the nitrones' anti-necrotic capacities, their anti-apoptotic effects at high concentrations and antioxidant powers-especially in the case of QN23-also contribute to their neuroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Chamorro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Health, Camilo José Cela University, Villanueva de la Cañada, 28692 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Izquierdo-Bermejo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Dolores Martín-de-Saavedra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco López-Muñoz
- Faculty of Health, Camilo José Cela University, Villanueva de la Cañada, 28692 Madrid, Spain
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, "Hospital 12 de Octubre" Research Institute, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mourad Chioua
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (CSIC), C/Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Marco-Contelles
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (CSIC), C/Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Jesús Oset-Gasque
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Khater SI, Shalabi M, Alammash BB, Alrais AI, Al-Ahmadi DS, Alqahtani LS, Khameis T, Abdelaziz S, Elkelish A, El-Dawy K. Evaluation of flaxseed lignan-enriched extract targeting autophagy, apoptosis, and hedgehog pathways against experimentally induced obesity. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2023; 10:321-335. [PMID: 37534085 PMCID: PMC10390674 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2023.j684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This research investigated secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) flax extract effects on apoptosis, hedgehog (Hh), autophagy, and the anti-oxidation process in experimentally induced obesity. Materials and Methods Forty rats were separated into two sets regarding either receiving a normal balanced diet or a high-fat diet (HFD) and then distributed into four groups: GI: The control group had a regular diet for 12 weeks. GII: animals received a high-fat meal and saline by gastric gavage. GIII: HFD obese rats treated with SDG extract orally (10 mg/kg/b.w.) and 1.18 mg SDG/kg in the diet for 4 weeks GIV: Normal balanced diet rats received SDG extract orally (10 mg/kg/b.w.) and 1.18 mg SDG/kg of chow for 12 weeks in addition to their regular balanced diet. Results The administration of SDG extract exhibited a significant drop in body weight, glucose, lipid profile, and leptin compared to the obese group. It also improved the antioxidant levels (lowering the levels of malondialdehyde while increasing the total antioxidant capacity) and anti-inflammatory status (decreasing interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha). SDG extract downregulates the expression of HH genes (protein patched homolog 1, Hh-interacting protein, glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1, and smoothened receptor) in conjunction with the modulation of autophagy genes and apoptotic proteins. Conclusion SDG extract showed improved anti-inflammatory and antioxidant status and downregulated the expression of HH genes while modulating autophagy genes and apoptotic proteins among obese rats, suggesting that it may be used to avert and manage obesity and its correlated complications by modulating oxidation, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis. Advanced future research on the SDG autophagy pathway to address obesity and its complications is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safaa I. Khater
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Maram Shalabi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | | | - Alaa I. Alrais
- King Fahad Hospital, Ministry of Health, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Doaa S. Al-Ahmadi
- Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH), Ministry of Health, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leena S. Alqahtani
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek Khameis
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Sahar Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Amr Elkelish
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kh. El-Dawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Khater SI, Shalabi M, Alammash BB, Alrais AI, Al-ahmadi D, Alqahtani LS, Khamis T, Abdelaziz S, Aldawy K. Autophagy characteristics of phytoestrogens in management and prevention of diseases: A narrative review of in-vivo and in-vitro studies. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2023; 10:308-320. [PMID: 37534069 PMCID: PMC10390686 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2023.j683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Phytoestrogens are non-steroid polyphenolic materials present in 300 plants. Regarding their structural similarities to estradiol, phytoestrogens attach to estrogen receptors and display anti- or pro-estrogenic activities. This review explored phytoestrogens' potential advantages and autophagy properties in light of their future application for disease management, highlighting how phytoestrogens could modulate autophagy. Research has examined the prospective benefits of phytoestrogens for the anticipation and management of various conditions, including signs of menopause, tumors, skin deterioration, osteoporosis, heart disease, neurodegenerative conditions, disorders of the immune system, and metabolic syndrome, owing to their therapeutic effects. As phytoestrogens can activate or inhibit autophagy, which has antioxidant, apoptotic, anti-mutagenic, anticancer, transcriptional, and genomic impacts on cancer and aging illnesses, phytoestrogens could influence diseases through the modulation of autophagy. The collaborative research on animal models, utilization of genetic techniques, and administration of pharmacologically active substances has indicated the possible therapeutic benefits of autophagy modulation in various illnesses. Further research is required to illustrate the pathways by which phytoestrogens modulate autophagy and the possible therapeutic effects on these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safaa I. Khater
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Maram Shalabi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | | | - Alaa I. Alrais
- King Fahad Hospital, Ministry of Health, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Doaa Al-ahmadi
- Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH), Ministry of Health, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leena S. Alqahtani
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 23445, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek Khamis
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Sahar Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Khalifa Aldawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Younis NS, Mohamed ME. Anethole Pretreatment Modulates Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion: The Role of JNK, p38, MMP-2 and MMP-9 Pathways. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030442. [PMID: 36986541 PMCID: PMC10057436 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Anethole (AN) is one of the major constituents of several plant oils, demonstrating plentiful pharmacological actions. Ischemic stroke is the main cause of morbidity and death worldwide, particularly since ischemic stroke therapeutic choices are inadequate and limited; thus, the development of new therapeutic options is indispensable. This study was planned to explore the preventive actions of AN in ameliorating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain damage and BBB permeability leakage, as well as to explore anethole’s potential mechanisms of action. The proposed mechanisms included modulating JNK and p38 as well as MMP-2 and MMP-9 pathways. Sprague–Dawley male rats were randomly assigned into four groups: sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), AN125 + MCAO, and AN250 + MCAO. Animals in the third and fourth groups were pretreated with AN 125 or 250 mg/kg orally, respectively, for two weeks before performing middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced cerebral ischemic/reperfusion surgery. Animals that experienced cerebral ischemia/reperfusion exhibited amplified infarct volume, Evans blue intensity, brain water content, Fluoro-Jade B-positive cells, severe neurological deficits, and numerous histopathological alterations. MCAO animals exhibited elevated MMP-9 and MMP-2 gene expressions, enzyme activities, augmented JNK, and p38 phosphorylation. On the other hand, pretreatment with AN diminished the infarct volume, Evans blue dye intensity, brain water content, and Fluoro-Jade B-positive cells, improved the neurological score and enhanced histopathological examination. AN effectively lowered MMP-9 and MMP-2 gene expression and enzyme activities and diminished phosphorylated JNK, p38. AN decreased MDA content, amplified GSH/GSSG ratio, SOD, and CAT, decreased the serum and brain tissue homogenate inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), NF-κB, and deterred the apoptotic status. This study revealed the neuroprotective ability of AN against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats. AN boosted blood–brain barrier integrity via modulating MMPs and diminished oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis through the JNK/p38 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy S. Younis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Zagazig University Hospitals, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| | - Maged E. Mohamed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
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Hei C, Zhou Y, Zhang C, Gao F, Cao M, Yuan S, Qin Y, Li PA, Yang X. Rapamycin ameliorates brain damage and maintains mitochondrial dynamic balance in diabetic rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:409-418. [PMID: 35670992 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01020-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of rapamycin on mitochondrial dynamic balance in diabetic rats subjected to cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (n = 78) were treated with high fat diet combined with streptozotocin injection to construct diabetic model in rats. Transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) of 2 hours was induced and the brains were harvested after 1 and 3 days of reperfusion. Rapamycin was injected intraperitoneally for 3 days prior to and immediately after operation, once a day. The neurological function was assessed, infarct volumes were measured and HE staining as well as immunohistochemistry were performed. The protein of hippocampus was extracted and Western blotting were performed to detect the levels of mTOR, mitochondrial dynamin related proteins (DRP1, p-DRP1, OPA1), SIRT3, and Nix/BNIP3L. Diabetic hyperglycemia worsened the neurological function performance (p < 0.01), enlarged infarct size (p < 0.01) and increased ischemic neuronal cell death (p < 0.01). The increased damage was associated with elevations of p-mTOR, p-S6, and p-DRP1; and suppressions of SIRT3 and Nix/BNIP3L. Rapamycin ameliorated diabetes-enhanced ischemic brain damage and reversed the biomarker alterations caused by diabetes. High glucose activated mTOR pathway and caused mitochondrial dynamics toward fission. The protective effect of rapamycin against diabetes-enhanced ischemic brain damage was associated with inhibiting mTOR pathway, redressing mitochondrial dynamic imbalance, and elevating SIRT3 and Nix/BNIP3L expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changchun Hei
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory for Craniocerebral Diseases of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yujia Zhou
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Chenyang Zhang
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Furong Gao
- Medical Audit Department, Medical Security Bureau of Jiaxiang County, Jining, China
| | - Meiling Cao
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Shilin Yuan
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yixin Qin
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - P Andy Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomanufacturing Research Institute Technology Enterprise (BRITE), College of Health and Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Xiao Yang
- Neuroscience Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
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Lezcano V, Morelli S, González-Pardo V. Molecular and cellular outcomes of quercetin actions on healthy and tumor osteoblasts. Biochimie 2022; 199:46-59. [PMID: 35447220 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is a global trend in the use of natural bioactive compounds to complement conventional therapies in bone diseases. In this work, we studied the effects of the phytoestrogen quercetin (QUE) in healthy and tumor osteoblasts. We found that QUE (1 μM, 48 h) significantly increased the cell number and the viability of healthy human osteoblasts (hFOB cells) determined by a trypan blue and a MTS assay, respectively, among other concentrations tested. In addition, wound healing and cellular adhesion assays also demonstrated that 1 μM of QUE significantly stimulated both parameters in osteoblasts. Moreover, osteoblast differentiation was also triggered by QUE in an osteogenic medium by measuring alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium deposition, and collagen levels. Herein, a concentration of 0.01 μM of QUE showed an increment in these differentiation markers and an activation of AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway, determined by a Western blot analysis. In addition, immunocytochemistry and subcellular fraction studies indicated an increase of β-catenin localization in the plasma membrane after QUE treatment. Otherwise, QUE (20-100 μM) decreased the cell number and the viability in tumor osteoblasts (ROS 17/2.8 cells) after 48 h. Furthermore, QUE (100 μM) decreased AKT(Ser473) and the pro-apoptotic protein BAD(Ser136) phosphorylation. In addition, the ERK1/2 phosphorylation increased leading to osteosarcoma cell death since pre-treatment with the MEK inhibitor PD98059 had reverted QUE effect. Altogether, these results indicate that to stimulate the osteoblastogenesis low concentrations of QUE are required; however, these concentrations are not effective in inhibiting the growth of tumor osteoblasts, for which higher concentrations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Lezcano
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Ciencias Biológicas y Biomédicas del Sur (INBIOSUR), Argentina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Susana Morelli
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Ciencias Biológicas y Biomédicas del Sur (INBIOSUR), Argentina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica González-Pardo
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Ciencias Biológicas y Biomédicas del Sur (INBIOSUR), Argentina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), 8000, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Wang C, Chen H, Jiang HH, Mao BB, Yu H. Total Flavonoids of Chuju Decrease Oxidative Stress and Cell Apoptosis in Ischemic Stroke Rats: Network and Experimental Analyses. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:772401. [PMID: 34955724 PMCID: PMC8695723 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.772401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacological research results showed that total flavonoids of Chuju (TFCJ) could be used to treat acute myocardial ischemia and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. In this study, we explored the protective effect of TFCJ on ischemic stroke (IS) in the IS rat model. We hypothesized that TFCJ might exert its neuroprotective effects by suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress that are closely related to PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Method: TFCJ (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) was administered for 7 days. Rats (260 ± 20 g) were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2 h and reperfusion for 24 h. The neuroprotective effect of TFCJ was substantiated in terms of neurological deficits, oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde), pathomorphological changes (HE staining and TUNEL staining), and neurobehavioral functions in the rats. Then, we employed network pharmacology to reveal the potential mechanism of TFCJ against IS. Western blot was used to determine the levels of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway proteins. The expression of BCL-2, BAX, and cleaved-Caspase-3 was also measured by Western blots and RT-PCR. Results: The histopathological assessment showed that TFCJ reduced MCAO-induced brain damage. Besides, TFCJ exerted a protective role in MCAO rats by alleviating cell apoptosis and oxidative stress. Network pharmacology showed that TFCJ might be used against IS through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. TFCJ reduced cell apoptosis and oxidative stress by increasing the level of p-AKT and p-mTOR in MCAO rats, while the effect of TFCJ was significantly reversed when applying LY294002 (PI3k inhibitor). Conclusion: These results indicated that TFCJ might decrease oxidative stress and apoptosis that are closely related to PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in IS. TFCJ is a promising authentic traditional Chinese medicine for the management of IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Wang
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Hao Chen
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Hui-Hui Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Bin-Bin Mao
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Hao Yu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Bozhou University, Bozhou, China.,Department of Pharmacy, College of Life and Health Sciences, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
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The Beneficial Role of Natural Endocrine Disruptors: Phytoestrogens in Alzheimer's Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:3961445. [PMID: 34527172 PMCID: PMC8437597 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3961445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia with a growing incidence rate primarily among the elderly. It is a neurodegenerative, progressive disorder leading to significant cognitive loss. Despite numerous pieces of research, no cure for halting the disease has been discovered yet. Phytoestrogens are nonestradiol compounds classified as one of the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), meaning that they can potentially disrupt hormonal balance and result in developmental and reproductive abnormalities. Importantly, phytoestrogens are structurally, chemically, and functionally akin to estrogens, which undoubtedly has the potential to be detrimental to the organism. What is intriguing, although classified as EDCs, phytoestrogens seem to have a beneficial influence on Alzheimer's disease symptoms and neuropathologies. They have been observed to act as antioxidants, improve visual-spatial memory, lower amyloid-beta production, and increase the growth, survival, and plasticity of brain cells. This review article is aimed at contributing to the collective understanding of the role of phytoestrogens in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Importantly, it underlines the fact that despite being EDCs, phytoestrogens and their use can be beneficial in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
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Tualang Honey: A Decade of Neurological Research. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26175424. [PMID: 34500857 PMCID: PMC8434576 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tualang honey has been shown to protect against neurodegeneration, leading to improved memory/learning as well as mood. In addition, studies have also demonstrated its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, a substantial part of this research lacks systematization, and there seems to be a tendency to start anew with every study. This review presents a decade of research on Tualang honey with a particular interest in the underlying mechanisms related to its effects on the central nervous system. A total of 28 original articles published between 2011 and 2020 addressing the central nervous system (CNS) effects of Tualang honey were analysed. We identified five main categories, namely nootropic, antinociceptive, stress-relieving, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects of Tualang honey, and proposed the underlying mechanisms. The findings from this review may potentially be beneficial towards developing new therapeutic roles for Tualang honey and help in determining how best to benefit from this brain supplement.
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The Potential Effects of Phytoestrogens: The Role in Neuroprotection. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26102954. [PMID: 34065647 PMCID: PMC8156305 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring non-steroidal phenolic plant compounds. Their structure is similar to 17-β-estradiol, the main female sex hormone. This review offers a concise summary of the current literature on several potential health benefits of phytoestrogens, mainly their neuroprotective effect. Phytoestrogens lower the risk of menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis, as well as cardiovascular disease. They also reduce the risk of brain disease. The effects of phytoestrogens and their derivatives on cancer are mainly due to the inhibition of estrogen synthesis and metabolism, leading to antiangiogenic, antimetastatic, and epigenetic effects. The brain controls the secretion of estrogen (hypothalamus-pituitary-gonads axis). However, it has not been unequivocally established whether estrogen therapy has a neuroprotective effect on brain function. The neuroprotective effects of phytoestrogens seem to be related to both their antioxidant properties and interaction with the estrogen receptor. The possible effects of phytoestrogens on the thyroid cause some concern; nevertheless, generally, no serious side effects have been reported, and these compounds can be recommended as health-promoting food components or supplements.
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Ruan Y, Jin Q, Zeng J, Ren F, Xie Z, Ji K, Wu L, Wu J, Li L. Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract Ameliorates Cardiac Remodelling After Myocardial Infarction Through PI3K/AKT Pathway in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:585984. [PMID: 33343353 PMCID: PMC7747856 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.585984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction is one of the most serious fatal diseases in the world, which is due to acute occlusion of coronary arteries. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) is an active compound extracted from grape seeds that has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor pharmacological effects. Natural products are cheap, easy to obtain, widely used and effective. It has been used to treat numerous diseases, such as cancer, brain injury and diabetes complications. However, there are limited studies on its role and associated mechanisms in myocardial infarction in mice. This study showed that GSPE treatment in mice significantly reduced cardiac dysfunction and improved the pathological changes due to MI injury. In vitro, GSPE inhibited the apoptosis of H9C2 cells after hypoxia culture, resulting in the expression of Bax decreased and the expression of Bcl-2 increased. The high expression of p-PI3K and p-AKT was detected in MI model in vivo and in vitro. The use of the specific PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor LY294002 regressed the cardio-protection of GSPE. Our results showed that GSPE could improve the cardiac dysfunction and remodeling induced by MI and inhibit cardiomyocytes apoptosis in hypoxic conditions through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxue Ruan
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qike Jin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingjing Zeng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fangfang Ren
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zuoyi Xie
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kangting Ji
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lianpin Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingguo Wu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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