p-Coumaric Acid Nanoparticles Ameliorate Diabetic Nephropathy via Regulating mRNA Expression of KIM-1 and GLUT-2 in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Study on Antidiabetic Potential of Sessuvium Portulacastrum Aqueous Extract: An In-Silico and In-Vitro Analysis

Diabetes mellitus is a persistent metabolic condition marked by elevated blood glucose levels due to compromised insulin secretion or functionality. The search for natural antidiabetic agents has gained attention due to their potential effectiveness and safety profiles. Sessuvium portulacastrum, a coastal plant, has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. This study investigates the antidiabetic potential of Sessuvium portulacastrum aqueous extract by analyzing its inhibitory effects on key enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and exploring its molecular interactions with critical target proteins. The aqueous extract of Sessuvium portulacastrum was prepared and used for in vitro analysis. The reduced activity of the extract against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, crucial in glucose absorption and postprandial hyperglycemia, was assessed. Molecular docking techniques were employed to explore the potential interactions between active compounds in the extract and diabetes-related proteins, including BAX, GSK3β, and CADH. The study revealed significant inhibition of both alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase enzymes by Sessuvium portulacastrum aqueous extract, indicating its potential to reduce glucose absorption and postprandial hyperglycemia. Moreover, the molecular docking analysis demonstrated strong binding interactions between active compounds in the extract and key proteins involved in diabetes-related pathways, namely apoptotic pathways, glycogen synthesis, and cell adhesion. The findings of this study highlight the promising antidiabetic potential of Sessuvium portulacastrum aqueous extract. Upcoming research should get an attention on isolating and characterizing the active compounds responsible for these effects on antidiabetic therapies from natural sources.

New concepts drive the development of delivery tools for sustainable treatment of diabetic complications

Diabetic complications, especially diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy and painful diabetic neuropathy, account for a large portion of patients with diabetes and display rising global prevalence. They are the leading causes of blindness, kidney failure and hypersensitivity to pain caused by diabetes. Current approved therapeutics against the diabetic complications are few and exhibit limited efficacy. The enhanced cell-specificity, stability, biocompatibility, and loading capacity of drugs are essential for the mitigation of diabetic complications. In the article, we have critically discussed the recent studies over the past two years in material sciences and biochemistry. The insightful concepts in these studies drive the development of novel nanoparticles and mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles to meet the need for treatment of diabetic complications. Their underlying biochemical principles, advantages and limitations have been in-depth analyzed. The nanoparticles discussed in the article include double-headed nanodelivery system, nanozyme, ESC-HCM-B system, soft polymer nanostars, tetrahedral DNA nanostructures and hydrogels. They ameliorate the diabetic complication through attenuation of inflammation, apoptosis and restoration of metabolic homeostasis. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles efficiently deliver therapeutic proteins to the retinal cells to suppress the angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis and oxidative stress to reverse diabetic retinopathy. Collectively, we provide a critical discussion on the concept, mechanism and therapeutic applicability of new delivery tools to treat these three devastating diabetic complications.

Zinc-Phthalocyanine Loaded PLGA-PVA-Chitosan Nanosystem for the Enhancement of Antidiabetic Activity

Zinc, one of the most common nutraceutical agents, proved to be effective for diabetes as it regulates the blood glucose level by inhibiting glucagon secretion. However, the hepatotoxicity of zinc creates necrosis, hepatic glycogen depletion, and apoptosis of hepatocytes at the concentration of 10 μg/kg. Phthalocyanine, a blue-colored compound, is an aromatic macrocyclic compound with good antioxidant ability owing to its heterocyclic nitrogen conjugation. The conjugation of zinc with phthalocyanine aimed to reduce the toxicity associated with zinc and enhance the antidiabetic activity at a lower dose. Hence, the present research work possessed the insights of the synthetic aspect of zinc with phthalocyanine along with its entrapment in the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-chitosan nanosystem via oral administration in the treatment of diabetes. A nanoprecipitation technique was implemented for the synthesis of PLGA chitosan nanoparticles, and formulation was further optimized using a central composite design. Twenty trials provided by the software selected optimum concentrations of PLGA, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and chitosan in consideration with particle size up to 335.6 nm, zeta potential 27.87 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 75.67 ± 8.13%. Addition of chitosan to the nanocarrier system for controlling the release of the drug for 3 days was accompanied by the improvement in the glucose level within 28 days. The delivery of the nanoparticles showed enhancement in the cholesterol, triglyceride, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urine parameters, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The application of DoE (design of experiments) for the optimization of the nanoparticles established a controlled release formulation for diabetes, which displayed safety and effectiveness in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

P-coumaric Acid: Advances in Pharmacological Research Based on Oxidative Stress

P-coumaric acid is an important phenolic compound that is mainly found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and fungi and is also abundant in Chinese herbal medicines. In this review, the pharmacological research progress of p-coumaric acid in recent years was reviewed, with emphasis on its role and mechanism in oxidative stress-related diseases, such as inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and nervous system diseases. Studies have shown that p-coumaric acid has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of these diseases by inhibiting oxidative stress. In addition, p-coumaric acid also has anti-tumor, antibacterial, anti-aging skin and other pharmacological effects. This review will provide reference and inspiration for further research on the pharmacological effects of p-coumaric acid.

Therapeutic Potential of Curcumin, a Bioactive Compound of Turmeric, in Prevention of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes through the Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

This study evaluates the anti-diabetic potential and underlying mechanisms of curcumin in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats. The rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal control, negative control (diabetic group), diabetic group receiving glibenclamide (positive control group), and curcumin plus STZ (treatment group). The anti-diabetic activities of curcumin were examined at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight through physiological, biochemical, and histopathological analysis. Compared to the normal control group rats, elevated levels of glucose, creatinine, urea, triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) and low levels of insulin were found in the negative control rats. Curcumin treatment showed a significant decrease in these parameters and an increase in insulin level as compared to negative control rats. In negative control rats, a reduced level of antioxidant enzymes and an increased level of lipid peroxidation and inflammatory marker levels were noticed. Oral administration of curcumin significantly ameliorated such changes. From histopathological findings, it was noted that diabetic rats showed changes in the kidney tissue architecture, including the infiltration of inflammatory cells, congestion, and fibrosis, while oral administration of curcumin significantly reduced these changes. Expression of IL-6 and TNF-α protein was high in diabetic rats as compared to the curcumin treatment groups. Hence, based on biochemical and histopathological findings, this study delivers a scientific suggestion that curcumin could be a suitable remedy in the management of diabetes mellitus.

Effect of Prunetin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats - a Biochemical and Molecular Approach

In the modern era, chronic kidney failure due to diabetes has spread across the globe. Prunetin (PRU), a component of herbal medicines, has a broad variety of pharmacological activities; these may help to slow the onset of diabetic kidney disease. The anti-nephropathic effects of PRU have not yet been reported. The present study explored the potential nephroprotective actions of PRU in diabetic rats. For 28 days, nephropathic rats were given oral doses of PRU (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg). Body weight, blood urea, creatinine, total protein, lipid profile, liver marker enzymes, carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, C-reactive protein, antioxidants, lipid peroxidative indicators, and the expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2) mRNA genes were all examined. Histological examinations of the kidneys, liver, and pancreas were also performed. The oral treatment of PRU drastically lowered the blood glucose, HbA1c, blood urea, creatinine, serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lipid profile, and hexokinase. Meanwhile, the levels of fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase were all elevated, but glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase dropped significantly. Inflammatory marker antioxidants and lipid peroxidative markers were also less persistent due to this administration. PRU upregulated the IRS-1 and GLUT-2 gene expression in the nephropathic group. The possible renoprotective properties of PRU were validated by histopathology of the liver, kidney, and pancreatic tissues. It is therefore proposed that PRU (80 mg/kg) has considerable renoprotective benefits in diabetic nephropathy in rats.

Spice-Derived Phenolic Compounds: Potential for Skin Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.

Eco-friendly chitosan-based nanostructures in diabetes mellitus therapy: Promising bioplatforms with versatile therapeutic perspectives

Nature-derived polymers, or biopolymers, are among the most employed materials for the development of nanocarriers. Chitosan (CS) is derived from the acetylation of chitin, and this biopolymer displays features such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, and ease of modification. CS-based nano-scale delivery systems have been demonstrated to be promising carriers for drug and gene delivery, and they can provide site-specific delivery of cargo. Owing to the high biocompatibility of CS-based nanocarriers, they can be used in the future in clinical trials. On the other hand, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that can develop due to a lack of insulin secretion or insulin sensitivity. Recently, CS-based nanocarriers have been extensively applied for DM therapy. Oral delivery of insulin is the most common use of CS nanoparticles in DM therapy, and they improve the pharmacological bioavailability of insulin. Moreover, CS-based nanostructures with mucoadhesive features can improve oral bioavailability of insulin. CS-based hydrogels have been developed for the sustained release of drugs and the treatment of DM complications such as wound healing. Furthermore, CS-based nanoparticles can mediate delivery of phytochemicals and other therapeutic agents in DM therapy, and they are promising compounds for the treatment of DM complications, including nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular diseases, among others. The surface modification of nanostructures with CS can improve their properties in terms of drug delivery and release, biocompatibility, and others, causing high attention to these nanocarriers in DM therapy.

Recent Advances of Ocular Drug Delivery Systems: Prominence of Ocular Implants for Chronic Eye Diseases

Chronic ocular diseases can seriously impact the eyes and could potentially result in blindness or serious vision loss. According to the most recent data from the WHO, there are more than 2 billion visually impaired people in the world. Therefore, it is pivotal to develop more sophisticated, long-acting drug delivery systems/devices to treat chronic eye conditions. This review covers several drug delivery nanocarriers that can control chronic eye disorders non-invasively. However, most of the developed nanocarriers are still in preclinical or clinical stages. Long-acting drug delivery systems, such as inserts and implants, constitute the majority of the clinically used methods for the treatment of chronic eye diseases due to their steady state release, persistent therapeutic activity, and ability to bypass most ocular barriers. However, implants are considered invasive drug delivery technologies, especially those that are nonbiodegradable. Furthermore, in vitro characterization approaches, although useful, are limited in mimicking or truly representing the in vivo environment. This review focuses on long-acting drug delivery systems (LADDS), particularly implantable drug delivery systems (IDDS), their formulation, methods of characterization, and clinical application for the treatment of eye diseases.

Identification of a novel immune landscape signature as effective diagnostic markers related to immune cell infiltration in diabetic nephropathy

Background

The study aimed to identify core biomarkers related to diagnosis and immune microenvironment regulation and explore the immune molecular mechanism of diabetic nephropathy (DN) through bioinformatics analysis.

Methods

GSE30529, GSE99325, and GSE104954 were merged with removing batch effects, and different expression genes (DEGs) were screened at a criterion |log2FC| >0.5 and adjusted P <0.05. KEGG, GO, and GSEA analyses were performed. Hub genes were screened by conducting PPI networks and calculating node genes using five algorithms with CytoHubba, followed by LASSO and ROC analysis to accurately identify diagnostic biomarkers. In addition, two different GEO datasets, GSE175759 and GSE47184, and an experiment cohort with 30 controls and 40 DN patients detected by IHC, were used to validate the biomarkers. Moreover, ssGSEA was performed to analyze the immune microenvironment in DN. Wilcoxon test and LASSO regression were used to determine the core immune signatures. The correlation between biomarkers and crucial immune signatures was calculated by Spearman analysis. Finally, cMap was used to explore potential drugs treating renal tubule injury in DN patients.

Results

A total of 509 DEGs, including 338 upregulated and 171 downregulated genes, were screened out. “chemokine signaling pathway” and “cell adhesion molecules” were enriched in both GSEA and KEGG analysis. CCR2, CX3CR1, and SELP, especially for the combination model of the three genes, were identified as core biomarkers with high diagnostic capabilities with striking AUC, sensitivity, and specificity in both merged and validated datasets and IHC validation. Immune infiltration analysis showed a notable infiltration advantage for APC co-stimulation, CD8+ T cells, checkpoint, cytolytic activity, macrophages, MHC class I, and parainflammation in the DN group. In addition, the correlation analysis showed that CCR2, CX3CR1, and SELP were strongly and positively correlated with checkpoint, cytolytic activity, macrophages, MHC class I, and parainflammation in the DN group. Finally, dilazep was screened out as an underlying compound for DN analyzed by CMap.

Conclusions

CCR2, CX3CR1, and SELP are underlying diagnostic biomarkers for DN, especially in their combination. APC co-stimulation, CD8+ T cells, checkpoint, cytolytic activity, macrophages, MHC class I, and parainflammation may participate in the occurrence and development of DN. At last, dilazep may be a promising drug for treating DN.