Therapeutic Potential of Capsaicin against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Liver Damage

Protective Effect and Mechanism of L-Theanine on Acute Alcoholic Liver Injury in Mice

SCOPE

Acute alcoholic liver injury (AALI), a global health concern, is exacerbated by excessive episodic drinking. L-theanine (LTA), a compound found in tea leaves, mitigates the AALI-induced liver oxidative stress and inflammation. However, its relationship with alcohol metabolism and its liver-protective mechanism remains unexplored.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study investigates the protective mechanisms of LTA against AALI in mice. The results demonstrate that LTA mitigates liver tissue damage and reduces the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, and liver levels of triglycerides, malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species (ROS), tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β. However, LTA enhances the activity of ethanol-metabolizing enzymes and decreases ethanol and acetaldehyde serum levels. Mechanistically, LTA accelerates alcohol metabolism by upregulating the hepatic expression of ADH6, ALDH1B1, ALDH2, CAT, and ACSS1 mRNA and protein in AALI mice, LTA downregulates the expression of CYP2E1 mRNA and protein and promoting antioxidative activities thus reducing the accumulation of ROS. This attenuated inflammation by inhibiting the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitor alpha (IκBα) and downregulating the hepatic expression of NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 mRNA, and protein.

CONCLUSION

LTA is a beneficial dietary supplement that protects against AALI by modulating alcohol metabolism and the TNF-α/NF-κB pathway.

Cyclophosphamide-induced multiple organ dysfunctions: unravelling of dose dependent toxic impact on biochemistry and histology

BACKGROUND

Cyclophosphamide, an immunosuppressive alkylating agent, has been used against breast cancer, lymphoma and myeloid leukemia. Despite various therapeutic uses, its toxic impacts on multiple organs remains to be fully elucidated.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate dose dependent toxic impact of cyclophosphamide on liver, kidney, brain and testis emphasizing serum and tissue biochemical and histological alterations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experimental design consisted of five groups of albino rats. Group 1-5 were administered vehicle for five consecutive days. On 6th day, group 1 received vehicle only and termed as control; group 2-5 received cyclophosphamide through intraperitoneal route at the rate of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg dose, respectively. After 24 h of the last administration, rats were euthanised; serum and tissue biochemistry; histology, sperm count and its motility were performed.

RESULTS

Serological, biochemical and histological indices exhibited dose dependent deviations from their regular status as a marker of toxicity in liver, kidney, brain and testis. Tukey's HSD post hoc test revealed maximum damage in multiple organs with 200 mg/kg dose of cyclophosphamide.

Capsaicin: a spicy way in liver disease

The incidence of liver disease continues to rise, encompassing a spectrum from simple steatosis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis and liver cancer. Dietary habits in individuals with liver disease may significantly impact the treatment and prevention of these conditions. This article examines the role of chili peppers, a common dietary component, in this context, focusing on capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers. Capsaicin is an agonist of the transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily 1 (TRPV1) and has been shown to exert protective effects on liver diseases, including liver injury, NAFLD, liver fibrosis and liver cancer. These protective effects are attributed to capsaicin's anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-steatosis and anti-fibrosis effects. This article reviewed the different molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of capsaicin on liver diseases.

Unveiling the Immunostimulatory Potential of Rhus Toxicodendron in Immunocompromised Balb/C Mice Induced with Cyclophosphamide

This study investigated how Rhus toxicodendron (RT) (6C, 30C, and 200C) can boost the immune system of BALB/c mice that were given cyclophosphamide (CPM), which is an anticancer drug that weakens the immune system. RT, known for its historical use in traditional homeopathic remedies, has demonstrated immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in various experimental models. To test the immune-boosting effects of RT, CPM (80 mg/kg) was given intraperitoneally to mice on days 4, 8, and 12 of the study but not to the normal control group. CPM-induced immunosuppression led to significant decreases in red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), and hemoglobin (Hb) levels, and reduced spleen and thymus indices. Phagocytic activity, cytokine concentrations, and spleen architecture were also adversely affected. RT treatment, particularly at 200C, significantly ameliorated these effects, improving RBC, WBC, and Hb levels. Furthermore, RT partially prevented CPM-induced atrophy of immune organs. Treatment positively influenced cytokine production at both the protein and mRNA levels, restoring immune balance. Histopathological results confirmed that RT stimulated the immune system. The cells were more stable, and the white pulp in the spleen was arranged in a regular pattern. These findings suggest that RT may serve as an adjunctive immunostimulant therapy for conditions characterized by immunosuppression. However, further investigations in other immunocompromised states must validate these results before considering human clinical trials.

Growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens fed diet containing bird eye pepper of varying proportion and sieve size

This study investigated the potency of bird eye pepper (BEP) of varying proportion and sieve size on growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty-six 2-wk-old broiler chicks were randomly allotted to six treatment groups (basal diet (B) inclusive × 2) in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement each replicated four times (10 × 10 × 10 × 11) in a completely randomized design. Diets containing BEP of varying proportion (0, 150, and 300 g) and sieve size (0.05 and 0.1 mm) were offered in two phases, starter (14 d) and finisher (17 d). Postfeeding, 48 birds (two per replicate) were sacrificed to further evaluate performance and assess the quality of meat produced. Result obtained indicates chicks fed 150 g BEP consumed less feed compared to 300 g BEP. Also, 0 and 150 g BEP groups had better (P < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) than 300 g BEP, while 0.05 mm BEP diet improved (P < 0.05) FCR as against 0.1 mm BEP. Interaction of proportion and sieve size effects of BEP increased (P < 0.05) the final weight of the birds and suppressed (P < 0.05) feed intake for all groups as against 300 g (0.1 mm) BEP (1,576.00 g/bird; 964.20 g/bird). Feeding 150 and 300 g BEP diets lowered (P < 0.05) superoxide dismutase (SOD) production compared to 0 g BEP, while 150 g BEP diet increased (P < 0.05) catalase production over 0 g BEP. Interactive effect of proportion and sieve size of BEP reduced (P < 0.05) SOD production in 150 g (0.05 and 0.1 mm) BEP and 300 g (0.05 mm) BEP groups, followed by 300 g (0.1 mm) BEP group that had lower (P < 0.05) SOD than both basal groups. Birds fed B + 150 g (0.05 mm) BEP diet produced more (P < 0.05) catalase compared to both basal groups. Meat pH for 150 and 300 g BEP groups was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced than 0 g BEP. The Hue angle corresponds with a high value (P < 0.05) to 0 g BEP, while 300 g BEP showed a low value. This study has shown BEP at low concentration (150 g) screened with 0.05 and 0.1 mm sieves enhanced chick welfare, while a higher concentration (300 g) screened at 0.05 mm improved overall growth performance (endogenous antioxidant profile) at finisher phase. Broiler chickens, farmers, and meat processors will benefit from diet containing BEP screened through 0.05 mm sieve.

Phytochemicals as Potential Lead Molecules against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of liver cancer, accounting for 85-90% of liver cancer cases and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The major risk factors for HCC include hepatitis C and B viral infections, along with chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, fibrosis, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis associated with metabolic syndrome. Despite the advancements in modern medicine, there is a continuous rise in the annual global incidence rate of HCC, and it is estimated to reach >1 million cases by 2025. Emerging research in phytomedicine and chemotherapy has established the anti-cancer potential of phytochemicals, owing to their diverse biological activities. In this review, we report the major phytochemicals that have been explored in combating hepatocellular carcinoma and possess great potential to be used as an alternative or in conjunction with the existing HCC treatment modalities. An overview of the pre-clinical observations, mechanism of action and molecular targets of some of these phytochemicals is also incorporated.

Sesamin's Therapeutic Actions on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Hepatotoxicity, Molecular Mechanisms, and Histopathological Characteristics

Cyclophosphamide, an alkylating agent integral to specific cancer chemotherapy protocols, is often curtailed in application owing to its significant hepatotoxic side effects. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the hepatoprotective potential of sesamin, a plant-originated antioxidant, using rat models. The rats were divided into five groups: a control group received only the vehicle for six days; a cyclophosphamide group received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) single injection of cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg) on day four; a sesamin group received a daily high oral dose (20 mg/kg) of sesamin for six days; and two groups were pretreated with oral sesamin (10 and 20 mg/kg daily from day one to day six) followed by an i.p. injection of cyclophosphamide on day four. The final and last sesamin dose was administered 24 h before euthanasia. At the end of the experiment, blood and liver tissue were collected for biochemical and histopathological assessments. The results indicated significantly increased liver markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and BIL), cytokines (TNFα and IL-1β), caspase-3, and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the cyclophosphamide group as compared to the normal control. Additionally, there was a significant decline in antioxidants (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD), but the sesamin treatment reduced liver marker enzymes, cytokines, and caspase-3 and improved antioxidants and antioxidant enzymes. Thus, sesamin effectively countered these alterations and helped to normalize the histopathological alterations. In conclusion, sesamin demonstrated the potential for attenuating cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity by modulating cytokine networks, apoptotic pathways, and oxidative stress, suggesting its potential role as an adjunct in chemotherapy to reduce hepatotoxicity.

Protective potential of pterostilbene against cyclophosphamide-induced nephrotoxicity and cystitis in rats

PURPOSE

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is an antitumor drug. However, in addition to its antitumor affect, CYP can also lead to nephrotoxicity and hemorrhagic cystitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects of Pterostilbene (Pte), a natural antioxidant as a resveratrol analog against CYP-induced nephrotoxicity and cystitis in rats.

METHODS

Twenty-one male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 3 equal groups. The control group and the CYP group (CYPG) received 1 ml/kg sunflower oil per day, and the CYP + Pte group (CYP + PteG) 40 mg/kg per day Pte dissolved in sunflower oil once a day via the oral route for 14 days. In addition, on day 9 of the experiment, CYPG and CYP + PteG received a single dose of 200 mg/kg CYP dissolved in saline solution, while the control group received a single dose of 10 ml/kg saline solution, via the intraperitoneal route. Bladder and kidney tissues were collected for histological and biochemical evaluations.

RESULTS

Pte was observed to reduce CYP-derived increases in malondialdehyde level, total oxidant status (TOS), the oxidative stress index (OSI), and apoptosis in kidney tissues and to cause an increase in superoxide dismutase levels. It also reduced CYP-derived increases in TOS, OSI, and apoptosis in bladder tissue. Moreover, Pte also ameliorated histopathological findings associated with CYP-induced tissue damage in both the kidney and bladder.

CONCLUSION

Our study findings show that Pte may exhibit a protective effect against CYP-induced nephrotoxicity and cystitis.

Atorvastatin protects against cyclophosphamide-induced thyroid injury in rats via modulation of JNK/ ERK/ p38 MAPK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Cancer chemotherapy is associated with various tissue toxicities that limit its use. Cyclophosphamide (CYC) is one of the most commonly used antineoplastic and immunosuppressive agent. Thyroid dysfunction is a critical side effect of anticancer drugs. Atorvastatin (ATV) is antihyperlipedemic drug with different tissue protective activities. The aim of this study was to determine the potential protective effect of ATV against CYC-induced thyroid injury in rats.

METHODS

ATV was administered in the presence and absence of CYC. Thirty-two adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group, ATV group (20 mg/kg/day, p.o. for 14 day), CYC group (200 mg/kg, i.p. on day 9) and ATV/CYC group. Triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), total nitrite/nitrate (NOx), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (P38MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) were measured. In addition, thyroid histopathology and caspase 3 immunohistochemistry were performed.

RESULTS

CYC significantly increased thyroid MDA, NOx, P38MAPK, ERK and JNK with decrease in GSH, T3 and T4 levels. Histopathological features of thyroid lesions and increased caspase 3 immune expression were appeared. ATV significantly normalized distributed oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic indicators, resulting in an improvement of histopathological features and reduction of caspase 3 immunoexpression.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that ATV protects against CYC-induced thyroid injury by regulating the JNK/ERK/p38-MAPK signaling pathway.

Effects of Vitamin D on Asprosin Immunoreactivity Against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Background Cyclophosphamide (CP), commonly used as an anticarcinogenic drug, has the potential to induce detrimental effects on multiple tissues, including the liver. Asprosin, which is a glucogenic adipokine, induces the liver to secrete glucose, thus contributing to the maintenance of homeostasis. This study aims to investigate the immunoreactivity of asprosin in the liver tissue of rats exposed to CP administration, as well as the changes in its levels due to the supplementation of Vitamin D (Vit D). Materials and methods Four experimental groups were formed, including control, Vit D (200 IU/kg), CP (200 mg/kg), and Vit D+ CP. Histopathological analysis was carried out by employing staining methods on liver tissues. These techniques encompassed the application of hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Masson's trichrome, and periodic acid Schiff (PAS). Through the application of spectrophotometric methods, concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and asprosin were determined. Furthermore, apoptotic cells were identified by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) method, and the asprosin immunoreactivity was determined by immunohistochemistry. Results Under light microscope examination, the histopathological damage was found to be more notable in the CP group compared to the control group. Moreover, a decrease was observed in serum and tissue asprosin levels, while an increase was noted in the count of apoptotic cells, along with elevated MDA and TOS levels. However, in the CP+Vit D group, Vit D administration alleviated histopathological damage. Notably, there were significant increases in TAS and asprosin levels, accompanied by reductions in both MDA and TOS levels. Conclusions The effect of CP on liver tissue was observed to result in damage and a reduction in asprosin levels. Vit D supplementation revealed elevated asprosin levels and a distinct protective effect on the tissue. Considering the association between asprosin and liver injury induced by CP, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms that underlie the effect of asprosin on tissues. When combined with Vit D, asprosin holds promise for potential clinical applications as a therapeutic target.

Trastuzumab-Mediated Cardiotoxicity and Its Preventive Intervention by Zingerone through Antioxidant and Inflammatory Pathway in Rats

Trastuzumab (TZB) is a new medicine, used to treat cancers of the breast and stomach. However, the cardiotoxic potential of this drug edges out its clinical advantages. The present study was designed to find out the effect of zingerone against trastuzumab-mediated cardiotoxicity in rats. In this study, five groups of rats with eight animals in each group were used. Group 1 was treated with normal saline, as a normal control (NC); Group 2 was treated with TZB (6 mg/kg/week-for five weeks) intraperitoneally as a toxic control. Groups 3 and 4 were pre-treated with zingerone (50 and 100 mg/kg, as per their body weight orally) along with five doses of TZB for five weeks, and Group 5 was treated with zingerone (100 mg/kg, body weight orally) as a control. TZB treatment showed cardiotoxicity as evidenced by increased levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) and decreased level of glutathione (GSH), and antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-s- transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Zingerone pre-treatment significantly decreased the levels of AST, CK-MB, LDH, and LPO and increased GSH and antioxidant enzymes content toward their normal level. In the TZB-alone administered group, inflammatory cytokines (IL-2 and TNF-α) levels were also elevated. Pre-treatment with zingerone restored the level of IL-2 and TNF-α toward normal level. The current findings undoubtedly demonstrated zingerone's cardioprotective nature against TZB-mediated cardiotoxicity in rats with the evidence of histopathological recall.

Capsaicin Ameliorates the Cyclophosphamide-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Inhibiting Free Radicals Generation, Inflammatory Cytokines, and Apoptotic Pathway in Rats

Cyclophosphamide is an antineoplastic agent that has a broad range of therapeutic applications; however, it has numerous side effects, including cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, chili peppers contain a substance called capsaicin, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, this research paper focuses on the potential mechanism of capsaicin’s cardioprotective activity against cyclophosphamide-induced cardiotoxicity by measuring the expression of oxidative and inflammatory marker such as interleukins and caspases. The following groups of rats were randomly assigned: only vehicle given for 6 days (control group); cyclophosphamide 200 mg/kg intraperitoneal on 4th day only (positive control group); capsaicin 10 mg/kg orally given for 6 days followed by cyclophosphamide 200 mg/kg on 4th day of treatment; capsaicin 20 mg/kg orally for six days followed by cyclophosphamide 200 mg/kg on 4th day of treatment; and maximum amount of capsaicin alone (20 mg/kg) orally for six days. Using ELISA kits, it was found that the cyclophosphamide administration significantly increased the levels of lactate dehydrogenase, troponin-I (cardiac cell damage marker), lipid peroxidation, triglyceride, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and caspase 3. However, it markedly reduced the antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione levels. Both doses of capsaicin could reverse cardiac cell damage markers, as shown by a significant decline in (lactate dehydrogenase and troponin-I). In addition, capsaicin significantly reduced the cytokine levels (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha), caspase 3, lipid peroxidation, and triglycerides. However, capsaicin treatment significantly raised the antioxidant content of enzymes such as glutathione and catalase. The capsaicin-treated group restored the oxidative parameter’s imbalance and generated considerable protection against cardiomyocyte harm from cyclophosphamide in male Wistar rats. These protective effects might be beneficial against the negative impacts of cyclophosphamide when used to treat cancer and immune-mediated diseases.