Cyanate Induces Oxidative Stress Injury and Abnormal Lipid Metabolism in Liver through Nrf2/HO-1

Decrease in platelet count in patients with AKI and its association with major adverse kidney events

INTRODUCTION

A reduction in platelet count in critically ill patients is a marker of severity of the clinical condition. However, whether this association holds true in acute kidney injury (AKI) is unknown. We analyzed the association between platelet reduction in patients with AKI and major adverse kidney events (MAKE).

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort, we included AKI patients at the Hospital Civil of Guadalajara, in Jalisco, Mexico. Patients were divided according to whether their platelet count fell >21% during the first 10 days. Our objectives were to analyze the associations between a platelet reduction >21% and MAKE at 10 days (MAKE10) or at 30-90 days (MAKE30-90) and death.

RESULTS

From 2017 to 2023, 400 AKI patients were included, 134 of whom had a > 21% reduction in platelet count. The mean age was 54 years, 60% were male, and 44% had sepsis. The mean baseline platelet count was 194 x 103 cells/µL, and 65% of the KDIGO3 patients met these criteria. Those who underwent hemodialysis (HD) had lower platelet counts. After multiple adjustments, a platelet reduction >21% was associated with MAKE10 (OR 4.2, CI 2.1-8.5) but not with MAKE30-90. The mortality risk increased 3-fold (OR 2.9, CI 1.1-7.7, p = 0.02) with a greater decrease in the platelets (<90 x 103 cells/µL). As the platelets decreased, the incidence of MAKE was more likely to increase. These associations lost significance when accounting for starting HD.

CONCLUSION

In our retrospective cohort of patients with AKI, a > 21% reduction in platelet count was associated with MAKE. Our results are useful for generating hypotheses and motivating us to continue studying this association with a more robust design.

Association of blood urea nitrogen with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in hyperlipidemia: NHANES 1999-2018

OBJECTIVE

Although blood urea nitrogen (BUN) has a crucial impact on many diseases, its effect on outcomes in patients with hyperlipidemia remains unknown. The study aimed to investigate the relationships between BUN levels and all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in individuals with hyperlipidemia.

METHODS

This analysis comprised 28,122 subjects with hyperlipidemia from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 1999 to 2018. The risk of BUN on mortality was evaluated using weighted Cox regression models. Additionally, to illustrate the dose-response association, the restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used.

RESULTS

During the observation period, 4276 participant deaths were recorded, of which 1206 were due to CVD. Compared to patients with hyperlipidemia in the third BUN quintile, the hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause mortality were 1.26 (95% CIs: 1.09, 1.45) and 1.22 (95% CIs: 1.09, 1.37) for patients in the first and fifth quintiles of BUN, respectively. The HRs for CVD mortality among patients in the fifth quintile of BUN were 1.48 (95% CIs: 1.14, 1.93). BUN levels were found to have a U-shaped association with all-cause mortality and a linear association with CVD mortality using restricted triple spline analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that both low and high BUN levels in patients with hyperlipidemia are associated with heightened all-cause mortality. Furthermore, elevated BUN levels are also associated with increased CVD mortality. The findings indicate that patients with hyperlipidemia may face an elevated risk of death if they have abnormal BUN levels.

Proteomics revealed composition- and size-related regulators for hepatic impairments induced by silica nanoparticles

Along with the growing production and application of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), increased human exposure and ensuing safety evaluation have progressively attracted concern. Accumulative data evidenced the hepatic injuries upon SiNPs inhalation. Still, the understanding of the hepatic outcomes resulting from SiNPs exposure, and underlying mechanisms are incompletely elucidated. Here, SiNPs of two sizes (60 nm and 300 nm) were applied to investigate their composition- and size-related impacts on livers of ApoE-/- mice via intratracheal instillation. Histopathological and biochemical analysis indicated SiNPs promoted inflammation, lipid deposition and fibrosis in the hepatic tissue, accompanied by increased ALT, AST, TC and TG. Oxidative stress was activated upon SiNPs stimuli, as evidenced by the increased hepatic ROS, MDA and declined GSH/GSSG. Of note, these alterations were more dramatic in SiNPs with a smaller size (SiNPs-60) but the same dosage. LC-MS/MS-based quantitative proteomics unveiled changes in mice liver protein profiles, and filtered out particle composition- or size-related molecules. Interestingly, altered lipid metabolism and oxidative damage served as two critical biological processes. In accordance with correlation analysis and liver disease-targeting prediction, a final of 10 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were selected as key potential targets attributable to composition- (4 molecules) and size-related (6 molecules) liver impairments upon SiNPs stimuli. Overall, our study provided strong laboratory evidence for a comprehensive understanding of the harmful biological effects of SiNPs, which was crucial for toxicological evaluation to ensure nanosafety.

Associations of perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate exposure with arthritis and inflammation indicators in young and middle-aged adults, NHANES 2005-2016

Background

Perchlorates, nitrates, and thiocyanates are prevalent environmental chemicals. Their potential association with arthritis remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the link between perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate exposure and arthritis, as well as the potential role of inflammation in this context.

Methods

Utilizing the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data spanning from 2005 to 2016, the study enrolled 6597 participants aged 20-59 (young and middle-aged), of which 1045 had arthritis. Employing multivariate logistic regression modeling, multiple linear regression models, restricted cubic spline analysis, Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) modeling, and mediation analysis, we assessed these relationships.

Results

There was a significant positive association between elevated urinary thiocyanate levels and arthritis risk [1.19 (1.11, 1.28)]. This association held true across subgroups of osteoarthritis (OA) [1.24 (1.10, 1.40)] and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) [1.33 (1.15, 1.55)]. Thiocyanate levels displayed a dose-dependent relationship with arthritis risk, showing a linear trend (nonlinear P > 0.05). Conversely, perchlorate and nitrate did not exhibit associations with arthritis risk. BKMR outcomes highlighted a positive correlation between a mixture of perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate and arthritis risk, with thiocyanate being the predominant predictors. Moreover, BKMR and generalized linear model analyses unveiled no significant synergistic effect of urinary perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate on arthritis risk. Furthermore, thiocyanate exposure has been linked to elevated levels of inflammatory indicators (white blood cell, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII)).

Conclusion

Heightened thiocyanate exposure may be linked to elevated arthritis risk, either single or in combined effects. Additionally, thiocyanate exposure is associated with heightened inflammation levels.

Nrf2 prevents diabetic cardiomyopathy via antioxidant effect and normalization of glucose and lipid metabolism in the heart

Metabolic disorders and oxidative stress are the main causes of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) exerts a powerful antioxidant effect and prevents the progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy. However, the mechanism of its cardiac protection and direct action on cardiomyocytes are not well understood. Here, we investigated in a cardiomyocyte-restricted Nrf2 transgenic mice (Nrf2-TG) the direct effect of Nrf2 on cardiomyocytes in DCM and its mechanism. In this study, cardiomyocyte-restricted Nrf2 transgenic mice (Nrf2-TG) were used to directly observe whether cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of Nrf2 can prevent diabetic cardiomyopathy and correct glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in the heart. Compared to wild-type mice, Nrf2-TG mice showed resistance to diabetic cardiomyopathy in a streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes mouse model. This was primarily manifested as improved echocardiography results as well as reduced myocardial fibrosis, cardiac inflammation, and oxidative stress. These results showed that Nrf2 can directly act on cardiomyocytes to exert a cardioprotective role. Mechanistically, the cardioprotective effects of Nrf2 depend on its antioxidation activity, partially through improving glucose and lipid metabolism by directly targeting lipid metabolic pathway of AMPK/Sirt1/PGC-1α activation via upstream genes of sestrin2 and LKB1, and indirectly enabling AKT/GSK-3β/HK-Ⅱ activity via AMPK mediated p70S6K inhibition.

Arsenic and polystyrene-nano plastics co-exposure induced testicular toxicity: Triggers oxidative stress and promotes apoptosis and inflammation in mice

Co-existing of polystyrene-nano plastics (PSNPs) and arsenic (As) in the environment caused a horrendous risk to human health. However, the potential mechanism of PSNPs and As combination induced testicular toxicity in mammals has not been elucidated. Therefore, we first explore the testicular toxicity and the potential mechanism in male Kunming mice exposed to As or/and PSNPs. Results revealed that compared to the As or PSNPs group, the combined group showed more significant testicular toxicity. Specifically, As and PSNPs combination induced irregular spermatozoa array and blood-testis barrier disruption. Simultaneously, As and PSNPs co-exposure also exacerbated oxidative stress, including increasing the MDA content, and down-regulating expression of Nrf-2, HO-1, SOD-1, and Trx. PSNPs and As combination also triggered testicular apoptosis, containing changes in apoptotic factors (P53, Bax, Bcl-2, Cytc, Caspase-8, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3). Furthermore, co-exposed to As and PSNPs aggravated inflammatory damage characterized by targeted phosphorylation of NF-κB and degradation of I-κB. In summary, our results strongly confirmed As + PSNPs co-exposure induced the synergistic toxicity of testis through excessive oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation, which could offer a new sight into the mechanism of environmental pollutants co-exposure induced male reproductive toxicity.

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol level as an independent protective factor against aggravation of acute pancreatitis: a case-control study

Background and aims

At present, evidence on the association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and aggravation of acute pancreatitis (AP) is limited. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the lowest HDL-C level during intensive care units (ICU) stay and AP aggravation and to determine the optimum cutoff lowest HDL-C level.

Methods

Patients admitted to the ICU of the Shandong Provincial Hospital for AP from 2015 to 2021 were included. The lowest HDL-C level during ICU stay was set as the independent variable, and the progression or non-progression to severe AP (SAP) was set as the dependent variable. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the relationship between the two variables, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to analyze the predictive ability of the lowest HDL-C level for progression to SAP.

Results

This study included 115 patients. The difference in the lowest HDL-C level between the SAP and moderately SAP groups was significant (P < 0.05). After adjusting for covariates, the lowest HDL-C level showed a negative correlation with the occurrence of SAP, with a relative risk of 0.897 (95% confidence interval: 0.827-0.973). The area under the ROC curve for prediction of AP aggravation by the lowest HDL-C level was 0.707, and the optimum cutoff lowest HDL-C level was 0.545 mmol/L.

Conclusion

No less than 0.545 mmol/L of the HDL-C level during ICU stay may be an independent protective factor for the aggravation of AP.

Neuroprotective Effects of Phenolic Antioxidant Tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) in Brain Diseases

Human life and health are gravely threatened by brain diseases. The onset and progression of the illnesses are influenced by a variety of factors, including pathogenic causes, environmental factors, mental issues, etc. According to scientific studies, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play a significant role in the development and incidence of brain diseases by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative tissue damage to induce inflammation and apoptosis. Neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and oxidative stress-related changes are inseparable factors in the etiology of several brain diseases. Numerous neurodegenerative diseases have undergone substantial research into the therapeutic alternatives that target oxidative stress, the function of oxidative stress, and the possible therapeutic use of antioxidants. Formerly, tBHQ is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant, which has been widely used as a food additive. According to recent researches, tBHQ can suppress the processes that lead to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which offers a fresh approach to treating brain diseases. In order to achieve the goal of decreasing inflammation and apoptosis, tBHQ is a specialized nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) activator that decreases oxidative stress and enhances antioxidant status by upregulating the Nrf2 gene and reducing nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activity. This article reviews the effects of tBHQ on neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in recent years and looks into how tBHQ inhibits neuroinflammation and oxidative stress through human, animal, and cell experiments to play a neuroprotective role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), stroke, depression, and Parkinson's disease (PD). It is anticipated that this article will be useful as a reference for upcoming research and the creation of drugs to treat brain diseases.

Ginkgo biloba extract alleviates fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome in laying hens via reshaping gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is evidenced to be effective in the prevention and alleviation of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes and fatty liver disease. However, the role of GBE in alleviating fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) in laying hens and the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Here, we investigated the effects of GBE on relieving FLHS with an emphasis on the modulatory role of GBE in chicken gut microbiota.

RESULTS

The results showed that GBE treatment ameliorated biochemical blood indicators in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced FLHS laying hen model by decreasing the levels of TG, TC, ALT and ALP. The lipid accumulation and pathological score of liver were also relieved after GBE treatment. Moreover, GBE treatment enhanced the antioxidant activity of liver and serum by increasing GSH, SOD, T-AOC, GSH-PX and reducing MDA, and downregulated the expression of genes related to lipid synthesis (FAS, LXRα, GPAT1, PPARγ and ChREBP1) and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, TLR4 and NF-κB) in the liver. Microbial profiling analysis revealed that GBE treatment reshaped the HFD-perturbed gut microbiota, particularly elevated the abundance of Megasphaera in the cecum. Meanwhile, targeted metabolomic analysis of SCFAs revealed that GBE treatment significantly promoted the production of total SCFAs, acetate and propionate, which were positively correlated with the GBE-enriched gut microbiota. Finally, we confirmed that the GBE-altered gut microbiota was sufficient to alleviate FLHS by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).

CONCLUSIONS

We provided evidence that GBE alleviated FLHS in HFD-induced laying hens through reshaping the composition of gut microbiota. Our findings shed light on mechanism underlying the anti-FLHS efficacy of GBE and lay foundations for future use of GBE as additive to prevent and control FLHS in laying hen industry.

Targeting protein modifications in metabolic diseases: molecular mechanisms and targeted therapies

The ever-increasing prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represents a major public health burden worldwide. The most common form of NCD is metabolic diseases, which affect people of all ages and usually manifest their pathobiology through life-threatening cardiovascular complications. A comprehensive understanding of the pathobiology of metabolic diseases will generate novel targets for improved therapies across the common metabolic spectrum. Protein posttranslational modification (PTM) is an important term that refers to biochemical modification of specific amino acid residues in target proteins, which immensely increases the functional diversity of the proteome. The range of PTMs includes phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, neddylation, glycosylation, palmitoylation, myristoylation, prenylation, cholesterylation, glutathionylation, S-nitrosylation, sulfhydration, citrullination, ADP ribosylation, and several novel PTMs. Here, we offer a comprehensive review of PTMs and their roles in common metabolic diseases and pathological consequences, including diabetes, obesity, fatty liver diseases, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. Building upon this framework, we afford a through description of proteins and pathways involved in metabolic diseases by focusing on PTM-based protein modifications, showcase the pharmaceutical intervention of PTMs in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and offer future perspectives. Fundamental research defining the mechanisms whereby PTMs of proteins regulate metabolic diseases will open new avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Insights into SGLT2 inhibitor treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy: focus on the mechanisms

Among the complications of diabetes, cardiovascular events and cardiac insufficiency are considered two of the most important causes of death. Experimental and clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of SGLT2i for improving cardiac dysfunction. SGLT2i treatment benefits metabolism, microcirculation, mitochondrial function, fibrosis, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, programmed cell death, autophagy, and the intestinal flora, which are involved in diabetic cardiomyopathy. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the mechanisms of SGLT2i for the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Associations of thiocyanate, nitrate, and perchlorate exposure with dyslipidemia: a cross-sectional, population-based analysis

The aim of this study was to assess the associations of urinary thiocyanate, nitrate, and perchlorate concentrations with dyslipidemia, individually and in combination, which has not previously been studied. Data from the 2001-2002 and 2005-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) were analyzed in this cross-sectional study. The dependent variables were continuous serum lipid variables (triglycerides [TG], total cholesterol [TC], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], non-HDL-C, and apolipoprotein B [Apo B]) and binary serum lipid variables, with the latter reflecting dyslipidemia (elevated TG, ≥ 150 mg/dL; elevated TC, ≥ 200 mg/dL; elevated LDL-C, ≥ 130 mg/dL; lowered HDL-C, < 40 mg/dL in men and < 5 0 mg/dL in women; elevated non-HDL-C, ≥ 160 mg/dL; and elevated Apo B, ≥ 130 mg/dL). Multivariate logistic, linear, and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression analyses were used to explore the associations of thiocyanate, nitrate, and perchlorate with the continuous and binary serum lipid variables. The linearity of the associations with the binary serum lipid variables was assessed using restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression. A total of 15,563 adults were included in the analysis. The multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses showed that thiocyanate was positively associated with multiple continuous (TG, TC, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and Apo B, but not HDL-C) and binary (elevated TG, TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C) serum lipid variables, whereas perchlorate was negatively associated with elevated LDL-C. Multivariate RCS logistic regression revealed a linear dose-response relationship between thiocyanate and elevated TG, TC, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and Apo B, but a nonlinear relationship with lowered HDL-C (inflection point = 1.622 mg/L). WQS regression showed that a mixture of thiocyanate, nitrate, and perchlorate was positively associated with all binary serum lipid variables except for Apo B. Our findings indicate that urinary thiocyanate, nitrate, and perchlorate concentrations, individually and in combination, were associated with dyslipidemia.

Astragaloside IV alleviates 1-deoxysphinganine-induced mitochondrial dysfunction during the progression of chronic kidney disease through p62-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to significant elevation of 1-deoxysphingolipids (1-deoxySL). The increase of 1-deoxySL in turn can result in mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress, which can cause further progression of CKD. Methods: This study assessed the therapeutic effect of Astragaloside IV (AST) against 1-deoxySL-induced cytotoxicity in vitro and in rats with CKD. HK-2 cells were exposed to 1-deoxysphinganine (doxSA) or doxSA + AST. doxSA-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress were evaluated by immunostaining, real-time PCR, oxidative stress sensor, and transmission electron microscopy. The potential effects of AST on kidney damage were evaluated in a rat 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) model of CKD. Results: The findings of in vitro experiments showed that doxSA induced mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. AST markedly reduced the level of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, lowered apoptosis, and improved mitochondrial function. In addition, exposure to AST significantly induced the phosphorylation of p62 and the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 as well as its downstream anti-oxidant genes. p62 knock-down fully abolished Nrf2 nuclear translocation in cells after AST treatment. However, p62 knock-down did not affect TBHQ-induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation, indicating that AST can ameliorate doxSA-induced oxidative stress through modulation of p62 phosphorylation and Nrf2 nuclear translocation. Conclusion: The findings indicate that AST can activate Nrf2 antioxidant pathway in a p62 dependent manner. The anti-oxidative stress effect and the further mitochondrial protective effect of AST represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the progression of CKD.

Catechins: Protective mechanism of antioxidant stress in atherosclerosis

Tea has long been valued for its health benefits, especially its potential to prevent and treat atherosclerosis (AS). Abnormal lipid metabolism and oxidative stress are major factors that contribute to the development of AS. Tea, which originated in China, is believed to help prevent AS. Research has shown that tea is rich in catechins, which is considered a potential source of natural antioxidants. Catechins are the most abundant antioxidants in green tea, and are considered to be the main compound responsible for tea's antioxidant activity. The antioxidant properties of catechins are largely dependent on the structure of molecules, and the number and location of hydroxyl groups or their substituents. As an exogenous antioxidant, catechins can effectively eliminate lipid peroxidation products. They can also play an antioxidant role indirectly by activating the endogenous antioxidant system by regulating enzyme activity and signaling pathways. In this review, we summarized the preventive effect of catechin in AS, and emphasized that improving the antioxidant effect and lipid metabolism disorders of catechins is the key to managing AS.

Effects of Sheep Bone Collagen Peptide on Liver Lipid Deposition in Ovariectomized Rats

Liver can be directly involved in the synthesis and decomposition of fatty acids. Liver lipid deposition is one of the most common chronic liver diseases. Estrogen deficiency can cause lipid deposition and energy metabolism disorders in the liver. Sheep bone collagen peptide (SBCP) has been shown to have estrogen-like effects in previous studies. And SBCP has high bioavailability, safety and non-toxic side effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of SBCP on liver lipid deposition (LLD) caused by estrogen deficiency. Female Wistar rats were treated as follows (n=10): sham group: underwent peri-ovary fat removal operations, ovariectomized rats (model group), ovariectomized rats receiving SBCP treatments: SBCP high dose group (SBCP-H), SBCP medium dose group (SBCP-M) and SBCP low dose group (SBCP-L). After 8 wk, the model group demonstrated severe LLD and liver pathological changes, with increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and free fatty acid (FFA) levels (p<0.05). Additionally, the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity (p<0.05), serum albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio (p<0.05), amount of butyric acid-producing bacteria and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) content decreased. SBCP intervention could inhibit the occurrence of LLD and alleviate the liver histopathological damage induced by estrogen deficiency by relieving oxidative stress, preventing the loss of butyric acid-producing bacteria, and decreasing the abundance of Lactobacillus reuteri in the gut. The results suggested that SBCP could improve the LLD indecued by estrogen deficiency.

Hawthorn fruit acid consumption attenuates hyperlipidemia-associated oxidative damage in rats

Context

Hyperlipidemia is a highly prevalent risk factor for atherosclerosis and stroke. The currently available medications used to treat Hyperlipidemia cannot improve its oxidative stress damage. Consumption of hawthorn can regulate blood sugar and blood lipids, and its rich fruit acid is a natural antioxidant that can improve oxidative stress damage.

Objective

The present research aimed to investigate the protective effect of hawthorn fruit acid (HFA) on hyperlipidemia and to determine its potential molecular mechanism.

Materials and methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce hyperlipidemia and treated orally with hawthorn fruit acids (HFA). Serum and liver levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), superoxide dismutase (SOD), hydrogen peroxide (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured. Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (HepG2) cells were treated with 0.1 mM oleic acid and HFA (0.125, 0.25 mg/mL), and intracellular TC, TG, HDL-C, SOD, CAT and MDA were measured. Changes in LDLR, HMGCR, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 protein and gene expression were analyzed by Western blot and qPCR.

Results

This study found that HFA treatment effectively reduced the level of triglyceride, cholesterol, and glucose, and attenuated hepatic steatosis in rats. Additionally, oxidative stress damage of rats was effectively reduced by treatment with HFA. Western blot and qPCR analysis indicated that HFA treatment inhibited fat accumulation in HepG2 cells by upregulating LDLR and downregulating HMGCR gene expression. HFA inhibits oleic acid (OA)-induced oxidative damage to HepG2 by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

HFA administration can provide health benefits by counteracting the effects of hyperlipidemia caused by an HFD in the body, and the underlying mechanism of this event is closely related to the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Hydroxy Selenomethionine Alleviates Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Disorder of Pigs Induced by Dietary Oxidative Stress via Relieving the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

This study used 40 castrated male pigs to determine the protective effects of a new selenium molecule (hydroxy selenomethionine, OH-SeMet) on dietary oxidative stress (DOS) induced hepatic lipid metabolism disorder, and corresponding response of selenotranscriptome. The pigs were randomly grouped into 5 dietary treatments and fed a basal diet formulated with either normal corn and oils or oxidized diet in which the normal corn and oils were replaced by aged corn and oxidized oils, and supplemented with OH-SeMet at 0.0, 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 mg Se/kg for a period of 16 weeks (n = 8). The results showed that DOS induced liver damage, increased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, decreased serum triacylglycerol (TG) level, suppressed antioxidant capacity in the liver, and changed lipid metabolism enzyme activity, thus causing lipid metabolism disorder in the liver. The DOS-induced lipid metabolism disorder was accompanied with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, changes in lipid metabolism-related genes and selenotranscriptome in the liver. Dietary Se supplementation partially alleviated the negative impact of DOS on the lipid metabolism. These improvements were accompanied by increases in Se concentration, liver index, anti-oxidative capacity, selenotranscriptome especially 11 selenoprotein-encoding genes, and protein abundance of GPX1, GPX4 and SelS in the liver, as well as the decrease in SelF abundance. The Se supplementation also alleviated ER stress, restored liver lipid metabolism enzyme activity, increased the mRNA expression of lipid synthesis-related genes, and decreased the mRNA levels of lipidolysis-related genes. In conclusion, the dietary Se supplementation restored antioxidant capacity and mitigated ER stress induced by DOS, thus resisting hepatic lipid metabolism disorders that are associated with regulation of selenotranscriptome.

Tert-Butylhydroquinone alleviates insulin resistance and liver steatosis in diabetes

OBJECTIVES:

This work aimed to determine tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)'s effects on insulin resistance (IR) and liver steatosis in diabetic animals and to explore the underpinning mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Male ApoE^-/-mice underwent streptozocin (STZ) administration while receiving a sucrose/fat-rich diet for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) establishment. This was followed by a 6-week TBHQ administration. Body weight, fasting (FBG) and postprandial (PBG) blood glucose amounts, and insulin concentrations were measured, and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was carried out. Hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining and immunoblot were carried out for assessing histology and protein amounts in the liver tissue samples. In addition, cultured HepG2 cells were administered HClO and insulin for IR induction, and immunoblot was carried out for protein evaluation. Finally, the cells were stained with the Hoechst dye for apoptosis evaluation.

RESULTS:

The model animals showed T2DM signs, and TBHQ decreased FBG, ameliorated glucose tolerance and reduced liver steatosis in these animals. In addition, TBHQ markedly upregulated AMPKα2, GLUT4 and GSK3 β, as well as phosphorylated PI3K and AKT in the liver of mice with T2DM. In agreement, TBHQ decreased HClO-and insulin-related IR in cells and suppressed apoptosis through AMPKα2/PI3K/AKT signaling.

CONCLUSIONS:

TBHQ alleviates IR and liver steatosis in a mouse model of T2DM likely through AMPKα2/PI3K/AKT signaling.

Alternate-day fasting alleviates high fat diet induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease through controlling PPARα/Fgf21 signaling

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease that ultimately leads to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Intermittent fasting has been proposed as a nonpharmacological dietary approach against metabolic diseases, including NAFLD. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of alternate day fasting (ADF) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD in C57BL/6 mice.

METHODS

A mouse model of fatty liver disease was established by feeding the mice a HFD for 16 weeks. The mice were administered by body weight, lipid accumulation and inflammation. PPARα, FGF21, serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), transaminase and lipogenesis were assessed.

RESULTS

The results showed that long-term ADF can attenuate fatty liver disease by reducing hepatic inflammation and lipid accumulation in a mouse model. Meanwhile, fasting elevated the expression of serum and hepatic fibroblast growth Factor 21 (Fgf21), a circulating hormone produced predominantly in the liver, and could effectively prevent and ameliorate the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Serum starvation also enhanced Fgf21 expression and reduced free fatty acid (FFA)-induced lipid storage in hepatocytes. Moreover, refeeding inhibited the increase in Fgf21 expression induced by fasting. This fasted-to-refed transition is closely related to the expression of Fgf21. Further in vitro and in vivo studies showed that fasting-sensitive PPARα is indispensable for the expression of Fgf21 and its protective effect on NAFLD.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicated that long-term ADF protects mouse livers against HFD induced fatty liver disease through controlling PPARα/Fgf21 signaling. In conclusion, ADF can emerge as a non-pharmacological dietary approach against fatty liver disease.

Decabromodiphenyl ether-induced PRKACA hypermethylation contributed to glycolipid metabolism disorder via regulating PKA/AMPK pathway in rat and L-02 cells

BDE-209 is the most prevalent congener of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and has high bioaccumulation in humans and animals. BDE-209 has been reported to disrupt glycolipid metabolism, but the mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, we found that BDE-209 induced liver tissue injury and hepatotoxicity, increased the glucose and total cholesterol levels in the serum of rats, and increased glucose and triglyceride levels in L-02 cells. BDE-209 exposure changed the PKA, p-PKA, AMPK, p-AMPK, ACC, and FAS expression in rats' liver and L-02 cells. Moreover, BDE-209 induced PRKACA-1 hypermethylation in L-02 cells. AMPK activator (AICAR) inhibited the changes of p-AMPK, ACC, and FAS expression and elevation of glucose and triglyceride levels induced by BDE-209. DNA methylation inhibitor (5-Aza-CdR) reversed BDE-209 induced alters of PKA/AMPK/ACC/FAS signaling pathway. These results demonstrated that BDE-209 could disrupt the glycolipid metabolism by causing PRKACA-1 hypermethylation to regulate the PKA/AMPK signaling pathway in hepatocytes.

Association of m.5178C>A variant with serum lipid levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Emerging evidence shows that m.5178C>A variant is associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the specific mechanisms remain elusive. Since dyslipidemia is one of the most critical risk factors for CAD and accounts for at least 50% of the population-attributable risk, it is tempting to speculate that the reduced CAD risk caused by the m.5178C>A variant may stem from an improved lipid profile. In order to verify this hypothesis, we conducted the present study to clarify the association of m.5178C>A variant with lipid levels.

Methods: By searching ten databases for studies published before 30 June 2021. Thirteen East Asian populations (7587 individuals) were included for the analysis.

Results: The present study showed that m.5178C>A variant was associated with higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.06–0.17, P<0.001] and total cholesterol (TC) (SMD = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.02–0.14, P=0.01) levels. In subgroup analysis, the association of m.5178C>A variant with higher HDL-C levels were observed in Japanese (SMD = 0.09, 95% CI = 0.01–0.17, P=0.03) and Chinese populations (SMD = 0.13, 95% CI = 0.07–0.20, P<0.001). However, the association of m.5178C>A variant with lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were only observed in Japanese populations (SMD = −0.11, 95% CI = −0.22 to 0.00, P=0.04).

Conclusions: The m.5178C>A variant was associated with higher HDL-C and lower LDL-C levels in Japanese populations, which may contribute to decreased CAD risk and longevity of Japanese.

Dual role of cadmium in rat liver: Inducing liver injury and inhibiting the progression of early liver cancer

The heavy metal cadmium (Cd) can induce damage in liver and liver cancer cells; however, the mechanism underlying its toxicity needs to be further verified in vivo. We daily administered CdCl₂ to adult male rats at different dosages via gavage for 12 weeks and established rat liver injury model and liver cancer model to study the dual role of Cd in rat liver. Increased exposure to Cd resulted in abnormal liver function indicators, pathological degeneration, rat liver cell necrosis, and proliferation of collagen fibres. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that the area of GST-P-positive precancerous liver lesions decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy revealed that Cd induced mitophagy, as well as mitophagy blockade, as evidenced by the downregulation of TOMM20 and upregulation of LC3II and P62 with increasing Cd dose. Next, the expression of PINK1/Parkin, a classic signalling pathway protein that regulates mitophagy, was examined. Cd was found to promote PINK1/Parkin expression, which was proportional to the Cd dose. In conclusion, Cd activates PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in a dose-dependent manner. Mitophagy blockade likely aggravates Cd toxicity, leading to the dual role of inducing liver injury and inhibiting the progression of early liver cancer.

Tertiary butylhydroquinone alleviated liver steatosis and increased cell survival via β-arrestin-2/PI3K/AKT pathway

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effects and the underlying mechanisms of tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) on diabetic liver steatosis and cell survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed streptozocin injection and used a high-sugar-high-fat diet for mice to develop an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Bodyweight, blood glucose levels, and content of insulin were measured on all of the mice. The liver tissues were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Protein levels of the liver were measured by Western blot analysis in mice. Primary hepatocytes were induced by hypochlorous acid (HClO) and insulin to form insulin resistance (IR). Primary hepatocyte apoptosis was observed by Hoechst staining. The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and β-arrestin-2 factor were evaluated by Western blot assay.

RESULTS

TBHQ reduced the blood glucose level and content of insulin in serum, increased body weight, and effectively alleviated liver steatosis in diabetic mice. TBHQ significantly up-regulated the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, GLUT4, GSK3β, and β-arrestin-2 in the liver of diabetic mice. Cell experiments confirmed that TBHQ increased the survival ability of primary hepatocytes, and TBHQ improved the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, GLUT4, and GSK3β by activating β-arrestin-2 in primary hepatocytes.

CONCLUSION

TBHQ could alleviate liver steatosis and increase cell survival, and the mechanism is due in part to β-arrestin-2 activation.

Angelica Polysaccharide Antagonizes 5-FU-Induced Oxidative Stress Injury to Reduce Apoptosis in the Liver Through Nrf2 Pathway

Oxidative stress induced by chemotherapeutic agents causes hepatotoxicity. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) has been found to have a variety of side effects, but its toxic effect on the liver and the mechanism are still unclear. Angelica polysaccharide (ASP), the main active ingredient of Dang Gui, has antioxidative stress effects. In this study, we investigated the antagonistic effects of ASP on 5-FU-induced injury in the mouse liver and human normal liver cell line MIHA and the possible mechanism. Our results show that ASP inhibited 5-FU-induced the decrease in Bcl-2 protein and the increase in Bax protein. ASP alleviated 5-FU-induced the increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) content; hepatic steatosis; and liver fibrosis. ASP restored 5-FU-induced swelling of mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. 5-FU promoted the expression of Keap1 and increased the binding to NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) to reduce the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, thereby weakening the transcriptional activity of Nrf2 to inhibit the expression of HO-1; reducing the activity of GSH, SOD, and CAT to increase ROS content; and aggravating DNA damage (indicated by the increase in 8-OHdG). However, ASP reversed these reactions. In conclusion, ASP attenuated the 5-FU-induced Nrf2 pathway barrier to reduce oxidative stress injury and thereby inhibit the disorder of lipid anabolism and apoptosis. The study provides a new protectant for reducing the hepatic toxicity caused by 5-FU and a novel target for treating the liver injury.

Platelet Function in CKD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with CKD are at high risk for thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications. Abnormalities in platelet function are central to these complications, but reports on platelet function in relation to CKD are conflicting, and vary from decreased platelet reactivity to normal or increased platelet responsiveness. The direct effects of uremic toxins on platelet function have been described, with variable findings.

METHODS

To help clarify how CKD affects platelet function, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of platelet activity in CKD, with a focus on nondialysis-induced effects. We also performed an extensive literature search for the effects of individual uremic toxins on platelet function.

RESULTS

We included 73 studies in the systematic review to assess CKD's overall effect on platelet function in patients; 11 of them described CKD's effect on ex vivo platelet aggregation and were included in the meta-analysis. Although findings on platelet abnormalities in CKD are inconsistent, bleeding time was mostly prolonged and platelet adhesion mainly reduced. Also, the meta-analysis revealed maximal platelet aggregation was significantly reduced in patients with CKD upon collagen stimulation. We also found that relatively few uremic toxins have been examined for direct effects on platelets ex vivo; ex vivo analyses had varying methods and results, revealing both platelet-stimulatory and inhibitory effects. However, eight of the 12 uremic toxins tested in animal models mostly induced prothrombotic effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, most studies report impaired function of platelets from patients with CKD. Still, a substantial number of studies find platelet function to be unchanged or even enhanced. Further investigation of platelet reactivity in CKD, especially during different CKD stages, is warranted.

Decabromodiphenyl ether disturbs hepatic glycolipid metabolism by regulating the PI3K/AKT/GLUT4 and mTOR/PPARγ/RXRα pathway in mice and L02 cells

Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a persistent environmental pollutant that poses great risks to human health and has been associated with glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the mechanisms by which BDE-209 disturbs glycolipid metabolism in the liver remain unclear. Therefore, this study sought to confirm the effects of BDE-209 on glycolipid metabolism in mice livers and L02 cells to elucidate potential mechanisms of action. In vivo BDE-209 exposure caused histological damage and lipid accumulation, elevated glucose, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, and decreased glycogen and high-density lipoprotein levels in mice livers. Moreover, in vitro BDE-209 exposure not only induced L02 cells cytotoxicity (i.e., reduced cell viability and increased LDH leakage and ROS generation) but also increased glucose and triglyceride concentrations in L02 cells. Furthermore, IGF-1, an activator of the PI3K-AKT pathway, markedly inhibited BDE-209-induced glucose concentration increase in L02 cells and antagonized the inhibitory effect of BDE-209 on the PI3K/AKT/GLUT4 pathway by counteracting the changes in the expression levels of p-IRS, AKT, PI3K, p-AKT, and GLUT4. Moreover, GW9662, a PPARγ inhibitor, blocked lipid accumulation and the upregulation of the mTOR/PPARγ/RXRα pathway in L02 cells induced by BDE-209 by relieving the increases in p-mTOR, PPARγ, and RXRα protein expression levels. In summary, this study revealed that BDE-209 disrupted glycolipid metabolism by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/GLUT4 pathway and activating the mTOR/PPARγ/RXRα pathway.

Metformin Inhibits the Urea Cycle and Reduces Putrescine Generation in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines

The urea cycle (UC) removes the excess nitrogen and ammonia generated by nitrogen-containing compound composites or protein breakdown in the human body. Research has shown that changes in UC enzymes are not only related to tumorigenesis and tumor development but also associated with poor survival in hepatocellular, breast, and colorectal cancers (CRC), etc. Cytoplasmic ornithine, the intermediate product of the urea cycle, is a specific substrate for ornithine decarboxylase (ODC, also known as ODC1) for the production of putrescine and is required for tumor growth. Polyamines (spermidine, spermine, and their precursor putrescine) play central roles in more than half of the steps of colorectal tumorigenesis. Given the close connection between polyamines and cancer, the regulation of polyamine metabolic pathways has attracted attention regarding the mechanisms of action of chemical drugs used to prevent CRC, as the drug most widely used for treating type 2 diabetes (T2D), metformin (Met) exhibits antitumor activity against a variety of cancer cells, with a vaguely defined mechanism. In addition, the influence of metformin on the UC and putrescine generation in colorectal cancer has remained unclear. In our study, we investigated the effect of metformin on the UC and putrescine generation of CRC in vivo and in vitro and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. In nude mice bearing HCT116 tumor xenografts, the administration of metformin inhibited tumor growth without affecting body weight. In addition, metformin treatment increased the expression of monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and p53 in both HCT116 xenografts and colorectal cancer cell lines and decreased the expression of the urea cycle enzymes, including carbamoyl phosphate synthase 1 (CPS1), arginase 1 (ARG1), ornithine trans-carbamylase (OTC), and ODC. The putrescine levels in both HCT116 xenografts and HCT116 cells decreased after metformin treatment. These results demonstrate that metformin inhibited CRC cell proliferation via activating AMPK/p53 and that there was an association between metformin, urea cycle inhibition and a reduction in putrescine generation.

Shunaoxin pills improve the antihypertensive effect of nifedipine and alleviate its renal lipotoxicity in spontaneous hypertension rats

Shunaoxin pills (SNX) have been used to treat cerebrovascular diseases in China since 2005. Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular disease. This study aimed to explore the synergistic antihypertensive effect of SNX and nifedipine and whether SNX could alleviate nifedipine-induced renal lipotoxicity. During administration, systolic blood pressure was measured weekly. After 5 weeks administration, we examined pathological changes of kidney, renal function, the lipid metabolism index, and adipogenesis genes expression in the kidney tissues, and explored its underlying mechanism. Finally, network pharmacology was used for supplement and verification. As a result, SNX improved the antihypertensive effect of nifedipine and apparently improved nifedipine-induced renal pathological changes, dyslipidemia and the levels of adipogenesis gene expression in kidney tissues. SNX reduced the levels of interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β in renal tissues, down-regulated the production of malondialdehyde, and increased superoxide dismutase activity and the protein expression of heme oxygenase-1 in kidney tissues. Network pharmacology also showed that SNX could improve nifedipine-induced renal lipotoxicity. The combination of SNX and nifedipine had certain benefits in the treatment of hypertension.

Effects of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone on Lipid Metabolism and Anti-Oxidative Capacity in a High-Fat-Diet Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Chick Model

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and its interaction with many metabolic pathways raises global public health concerns. This study aimed to determine the therapeutic effects of Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ, provided by PQQ.Na₂) on MAFLD in a chick model and primary chicken hepatocytes with a focus on lipid metabolism, anti-oxidative capacity, and mitochondrial biogenesis. The MAFLD chick model was established on laying hens by feeding them a high-energy low-protein (HELP) diet. Primary hepatocytes isolated from the liver of laying hens were induced for steatosis by free fatty acids (FFA) and for oxidative stress by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). In the MAFLD chick model, the dietary supplementation of PQQ conspicuously ameliorated the negative effects of the HELP diet on liver biological functions, suppressed the progression of MAFLD mainly through enhanced lipid metabolism and protection of liver from oxidative injury. In the steatosis and oxidative stress cell models, PQQ functions in the improvement of the lipid metabolism and hepatocytes tolerance to fatty degradation and oxidative damage by enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and then increasing the anti-oxidative activity and anti-apoptosis capacity. At both the cellular and individual levels, PQQ was demonstrated to exert protective effects of hepatocyte and liver from fat accumulation through the improvement of mitochondrial biogenesis and maintenance of redox homeostasis. The key findings of the present study provide an in-depth knowledge on the ameliorative effects of PQQ on the progression of fatty liver and its mechanism of action, thus providing a theoretical basis for the application of PQQ, as an effective nutrient, into the prevention of MAFLD.

Oxidative Stress and Lipid Mediators Modulate Immune Cell Functions in Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and rheumatic arthritis (RA), are caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors that lead to overactivation of immune cells and chronic inflammation. Since oxidative stress is a common feature of these diseases, which activates leukocytes to intensify inflammation, antioxidants could reduce the severity of these diseases. In addition to activating leukocytes, oxidative stress increases the production of lipid mediators, notably of endocannabinoids and eicosanoids, which are products of enzymatic lipid metabolism that act through specific receptors. Because the anti-inflammatory CB2 receptors are the predominant cannabinoid receptors in leukocytes, endocannabinoids are believed to act as anti-inflammatory factors that regulate compensatory mechanisms in autoimmune diseases. While administration of eicosanoids in vitro leads to the differentiation of lymphocytes into T helper 2 (Th2) cells, eicosanoids are also necessary for the different0iation of Th1 and Th17 cells. Therefore, their antagonists and/or the genetic deletion of their receptors abolish inflammation in animal models of psoriasis—RA and SLE. On the other hand, products of non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation, especially acrolein and 4-hydroxynonenal-protein adducts, mostly generated by an oxidative burst of granulocytes, may enhance inflammation and even acting as autoantigens and extracellular signaling molecules in the vicious circle of autoimmune diseases.

Cpt1a promoted ROS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in liver injury via the Nrf2/HO-1 and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway

Various liver diseases caused by liver damage seriously affect people's health. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects and the mechanisms of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (Cpt1a) on oxidative stress and inflammation in liver injury. It was found that the expression of Cpt1a mRNA was upregulated in a model of liver injury in mice. Thus, overexpression of Cpt1a increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) levels in an in vitro model of liver injury. It was also shown that overexpression of Cpt1a suppressed the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway. In summary, these data indicate that Cpt1a promotes ROS-induced oxidative stress in liver injury via the Nrf2/HO-1 and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathway.

Effects of Lactobacillus fermentum CQPC04 on Lipid Reduction in C57BL/6J Mice

Probiotics are functional foods that can effectively regulate lipid reduction and maintain body health. In this study, a strain of Lactobacillus fermentum CQPC04 (LF-CQPC04) isolated from traditional naturally fermented vegetables (Sichuan pickles) was studied, and its effects on lipid reduction in mice, as well as its mechanism of action, were observed. The results of this experiment show that LF-CQPC04 can reduce the abnormal weight gain and abnormal visceral index of mice caused by a high-fat diet. LF-CQPC04 can decrease TG (triglycerides), TC (total cholesterol), LDL-c (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), AST (aspartate transaminase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), and AKP (alkaline phosphatase) levels and increase HDL-c (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels in the serum of high-fat mice. LF-CQPC04 can also decrease the levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 (interleukin-6), IL-1β (interleukin-1 beta), TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor alpha), and IFN-γ (interferon gamma), and increase IL-4 and IL-10 levels in the serum of high-fat mice. The results of RT-qPCR (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and western blot experiments show that LF-CQPC04 can also down-regulate the expression of PPAR-γ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), C/EBP-α (CCAAT/enhances binding protein alpha) mRNA, and protein in the liver tissue of high-fat mice, while up-regulating the expression of Cu/Zn-SOD (copper/zinc superoxide dismutase), Mn-SOD (manganese superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), CYP7A1 (cholesterol 7 alpha hydroxylase), PPAR-α (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha), CPT1 (carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1), LPL (lipoprotein lipase), and ABCA1 (ATP-binding cassette transporter A1). Moreover, LF-CQPC04 shows stronger effects in regulating lipid reduction in mice than L-carnitine and commercial LB (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. Bulgaricus) bacteria. LF-CQPC04 is beneficial for lipid reduction in animals and has good probiotic potential.

Diethyl Blechnic Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidative Activity via the TLR4/MyD88 Signaling Pathway in LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells

Inflammation is a common pathogenesis in many diseases. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been considered to have good anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of diethyl blechnic (DB), a novel compound isolated from Danshen, and its possible mechanisms in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. The results showed that DB can inhibit the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. In addition, the results of the flow cytometry assay and the fluorometric intracellular ROS kit assay indicated that DB reduced the generation of ROS in LPS-stimualted RAW264.7 cells. DB reversed the LPS-induced loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Furthermore, DB suppressed the LPS-stimulated increased expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differential protein-88 (MyD88) and phosphorylation of TAK1, PI3K, and AKT. DB promoted NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) into the nucleus, increased the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 (NQO1) and reduced the expression of Keap1. In summary, DB may inhibit LPS-induced inflammation, which mainly occurs through TLR4/MyD88 and oxidative stress signaling pathways in RAW264.7 cells.