Oxidative stress as a crucial factor in liver diseases

The mechanistic action of mogroside V in the alleviation of oxidative aging

INTRODUCE

Diseases related to oxidative ageing are becoming increasingly evident in younger individuals. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the actions of mogroside V when used to treat anti-oxidative ageing.

METHODS

We used D-galactose-induced LO2 cells and C57BL/6J mice as models to investigate the molecular mechanisms of mogroside V (MV) for the treatment of oxidative ageing. Network pharmacology was used to predict the targets of MV for the treatment of oxidative ageing.

RESULTS

By down-regulating the EGFR/p38/JNK pathway, MV significantly inhibited oxidative ageing and apoptosis in cells, reduced the levels of SA-β-galactosidase. In mice, compared with the model group, MV treatment (100 mg/kg·d) reduced MDA levels and significantly increased the levels of GSH and SOD; furthermore, the size and structure of the liver leaflet and glomeruli was arranged in a regular manner; the small intestine glands had decreased in size. Moreover, the expression levels of Ptp1b mRNA had increased significantly while the levels of c-Jun mRNA and protein were significantly reduced. MV also increased the proportion of beneficial bacteria in the small intestine, including Bacteroidales and Lactobacillaceae.

CONCLUSION

Our analyses revealed that MV can significantly reduce oxidative ageing caused by the accumulation of D-galactose.

The PI3K/Akt pathway: a target for curcumin's therapeutic effects

Purpose

The purpose of this review study is to investigate the effect of curcumin on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway in various diseases. Curcumin, the main compound found in turmeric, has attracted a lot of attention for its diverse pharmacological properties. These properties have increased the therapeutic potential of curcumin in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, kidney disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. One of the main mechanisms of the effect of curcumin on health is its ability to modulate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This pathway plays an important role in regulating vital cellular processes such as growth, cell survival, metabolism, and apoptosis. Disruption of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is associated with the incidence of several diseases.

Methods

Electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched with the keywords "phosphoinositide 3-kinase" AND "protein kinase B "AND "curcumin" in the title/abstract. Also, following keywords "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease" AND "diabetes" AND "obesity" AND "kidney disease" and "neurodegenerative diseases" was searched in the whole text.

Results

Research indicates that curcumin offers potential benefits for several health conditions. Studies have shown it can help regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and protect the heart, kidneys, and brain.

Conclusion

This protective effect is partially achieved by regulating the PI3K-Akt survival pathway, which helps improve metabolic disorders and oxidative stress. By examining how curcumin affects this vital cell pathway, researchers can discover new treatment strategies for a range of diseases.

Associations of Ferritin and Folate Status With Clinical Outcomes in Childhood Cancer Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Given the limited research on folate and ferritin status in children with cancer undergoing treatment, we investigated the prevalence of abnormalities and their impact on clinical outcomes and treatment complications.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study enrolled children <18 years diagnosed with cancer between August 2010 and February 2014. Data collection occurred at diagnosis, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 months. Clinical outcomes were classified as event-free survival or events (relapse, death, the development of new metastasis, becoming palliative) and treatment complications. Micronutrient status was assessed through clinical and nutritional analyses. Binary logistic regression, multilevel model analysis explored relationships between micronutrient status and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients (median [interquartile range] 3.9 (1.9-8.8) years, 56% males) were recruited. Excess ferritin (85%) and folate deficiency (25.5%) were prevalent micronutrient abnormalities throughout the study. Decreased ferritin levels reduced the odds of events by 83.9% (odd ratios = 0.161, 95% CI = 1.000-1.002, p = 0.032). Higher ferritin was associated with increased number of treatment-related complications (B = 7.3E-5, 95% CI = 1.5E-5-0.000, p = 0.013). Folate status showed significant association with body mass index category (χ2 = 9.564, p = 0.008), indicating that overweight and obese patients were more prone to deficiency, and methotrexate (F(2.9); p = 0.06; -2LL (1381)). Haematological malignancies (F(2.8); p = 0.05; -2LL (4244)) and medium and high treatment intensity (F(2.4); p = 0.09; -2LL 4262)) were associated with higher ferritin levels over 18 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Paediatric cancer patients undergoing treatment exhibit high ferritin and reduced folate levels. Elevated ferritin is linked to increased toxicity and negative clinical outcomes, highlighting the importance of regular assessment and monitoring of both folate and ferritin. Implementing routine monitoring for these biomarkers could help mitigate adverse effects associated with treatment. Large-scale population-based studies and clinical trials are now warranted.

Protective effects of Alamandine against doxorubicin-induced liver injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Doxorubicin (DOX), a common chemotherapeutic agent, is often associated with dose-limiting hepatotoxicity. Alamandine, a peptide of the renin-angiotensin system, has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may counteract these adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the protective effects of alamandine on DOX-induced liver injury in rats.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats received DOX (3.75 mg/kg intraperitoneally) on days 14, 21, 28, and 35, reaching a cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg. Alamandine (50 µg/kg/day) was administered continuously via mini-osmotic pumps for 42 days. Liver toxicity was assessed through biochemical measurements of oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, and liver enzymes, as well as histological examination.

RESULTS

DOX administration significantly increased serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels while reducing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity. Histological analysis revealed hydropic degeneration and hepatocyte necrosis. Alamandine co-treatment restored SOD and CAT activity, reduced MDA and inflammatory markers, and normalized liver enzyme levels, indicating significant hepatoprotection. Furthermore, treatment with alamandine reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1, and NF-κB induced by DOX, while p53 expression remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

Alamandine effectively mitigates DOX-induced hepatotoxicity, demonstrating its therapeutic potential as an adjunctive agent in chemotherapy through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Procyanidin B2 mitigates methotrexate-induced hepatic pyroptosis by suppressing TLR4/NF-κB and caspase-3/GSDME pathways

Methotrexate (MTX), a potent chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive agent, is widely used for cancer and autoimmune diseases. MTX-induced hepatotoxicity is a well-recognized adverse response, even at relatively low doses. This study investigates the possible protective effects of procyanidin B2 (PCB2) on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. Rats were orally treated with PCB2 (40 mg/kg) for 10 days, followed by a single intraperitoneal MTX injection (20 mg/kg) on day 8. The study also included a positive control group treated with quercetin (20 mg/kg), a known antioxidant, alongside MTX. The results revealed that MTX-induced hepatic injury was evidenced by elevation in serum transaminases. This elevation was accompanied by hepatic oxidative stress due to an imbalance in oxidative/antioxidant markers, specifically elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased glutathione (GSH) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were markedly upregulated in the liver of MTX-intoxicated rats. Additionally, the expressions of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), caspase-3 and gasdermin E (GSDME) were significantly increased in MTX rats. The use of PCB2 significantly ameliorated the deleterious effect of MTX on previous parameters by restoring oxidant/antioxidant balance, decreasing the inflammatory markers, and normalizing the expression of NF-κB, TLR4, caspase-3 and GSDME. In conclusion, this study uncovered the potential role of PCB2 on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity, confirming its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pyroptosis effects yet, further studies are needed to support its use as a protective therapy against such toxicity.

Activation of hepatic alcohol metabolism by enzymatic porcine placenta hydrolysate in rats

Alcohol consumption causes severe liver damage and oxidative stress. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of enzymatic porcine placenta hydrolysate (EPPH) in Sprague-Dawley rats under acute alcohol administration. EPPH significantly reduced plasma ethanol and acetaldehyde levels in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, EPPH decreased the hepatic levels of malondialdehyde and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and suppressed Cyp2e1 mRNA expression. EPPH decreased the plasma alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels and increased the hepatic NAD+/NADH ratio. Hepatic transcriptome analysis revealed the significant regulation of key genes involved in inflammation, alcohol response, and apoptosis. Phosphokinase array analysis demonstrated that EPPH reduced phosphorylation of CASP9, BAX, TP53, and CHK2, thereby facilitating reactive oxygen species removal and suppressing apoptosis. Additionally, qPCR confirmed EPPH reduced Bax and Caspase9 mRNA levels, while immunoblotting showed decreased phosphorylation of TP53 and CHK2. These findings suggest that EPPH improves hepatic alcohol metabolism and reduces alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-025-01822-1.

Association of exposure to organochlorine pesticides with the antioxidant bilirubin: Mediation analysis in the NHANES

Exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) has been linked to adverse health effects through oxidative stress. Bilirubin, an endogenous antioxidant, may play a key role in regulating oxidative stress. This study utilized NHANES data (2007-2016) to investigate the relationship between exposure to seven OCPs and serum total bilirubin (TB) levels in American adults, as well as potential mediating effects. Among the 6583 adults studied, HCB, β-HCCH, p, p'-DDE, p, p'-DDT, OXYCHLOR, and T-NONA were all significantly and positively correlated with TB levels among the seven OCPs analyzed (p < 0.05). HCB, β-HCCH, and OXYCHLOR showed inverted "J"-, a similar "S"-, and "U"-shaped nonlinear relationships with TB, respectively (p for nonlinear < 0.05). OXYCHLOR had the strongest cumulative effect, and platelets partially mediated the association between p, p'-DDE, p, p'-DDT, T-NONA, OXYCHLOR, and TB. Exposure to OPCs was significantly positively associated with antioxidant TB levels, and platelets played a partially negative mediating role in this association. This finding suggests that OCPs exposure may adversely affect human health by impacting the redox system.

Green fabricated bimetallic zinc ferrite nanoparticles mitigate oxidative stress-induced pathogenesis

Current study evaluates the beneficial role of bio-functionalized zinc ferrite nanoparticles fabricated from an aqueous extract of Decalepis hamiltonii leaves (DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs) on sodium nitrite (NaNO2) and Diclofenac (DFC) induced oxidative stress in RBCs and Sprague Dawley male rat models. DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs were characterized using PXRD, FTIR, SEM-EDAX, HR-TEM and VSM. The data suggests that, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs were crystalline, ellipsoidal in shape with an average size of 10.95 nm and super paramagnetic in nature. DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs exhibited anti-oxidant properties by scavenging DPPH, H2O2 and reducing ferric to ferrous ions. Furthermore, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs normalized key parameters of oxidative stress such as LPO, PCC, TT and anti-oxidant enzymes (SOD & CAT). Similar to the previous in-vitro results, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs restored all the said stress parameters in homogenates of the liver, kidney, pancreas and heart. In addition, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs repaired Diclofenac induced tissue damage in the liver, kidney, pancreas and heart by regulating all biochemical parameters. Most importantly, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs exhibited anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-thrombotic activities and were non-toxic to RBCs. In conclusion, DHLE.ZnFe2O4 NPs through its anti-oxidant potential ameliorate oxidative stress induced pathogenesis such as, inflammation, tissue damage, diabetes and thrombosis.

A Relative Measurement of Oxidative Stress in NAFLD Through Cyclic Voltammetry Method for Clinical Translation

A potential contributing factor in the development of various metabolic diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) could be oxidative stress and the production of reactive oxygen radicals. A high level of lipid peroxidation, including oxidative stress, can cause irreversible effects. We investigated the consequences of NAFLD on the reducing power of the liver in patients through plasma antioxidant capacity using screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). The study includes a total of 67 patient's population with steatosis (n = 29) and steatohepatitis (n = 38). Anodic current intensity (la), anodic wave area (S), and the biological sample oxidation potentials can be determined via cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis. The enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and products of oxidative damage such as malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced glycation-end product (AGE), total status of oxidants (TOS), nitric oxide (NO), and cytokines analysis (qRT-PCR) of key mediators such as PNPLA3 in lipid metabolism, TIMP1 in fibrosis, and proinflammatory cytokines like NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6, which are crucial for understanding NAFLD progression were recorded to further validate the CV obtained results along with and morphological changes through scanning electron microscope (SEM). The developed method measured oxidative stress with an error of less than 1.3% in human plasma samples, wherein the steatohepatitis caused a spike modification in the anodic current AC520 and AC972 (p < 0.01) compared to healthy humans. The presented electroanalytical methodology could be widely used for easy and rapid subjects' disease status detection. In addition to monitoring the response of subjects to treatment and providing nutritional supplements, these results may also be used for screening specific populations.

Assessment of sub-maximal aerobic capacity in North African patients with chronic hepatitis B: a pilot case-control study

Background

Studies assessing sub-maximal aerobic capacity in non-cirrhotic chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate sub-maximal aerobic capacity in CHB patients compared to apparently healthy participants (control-group (CG)).

Methods

A 6-min walk test (6MWT) was performed. The 6-min walk distance (6MWD) was recorded, along with heart-rate (HR), oxy-hemoglobin saturation (SpO 2), blood-pressure, and dyspnea ( ie ; visual analogue scale) at rest (Rest) and at the end (End) of the 6MWT. Additionally, the 6-min walk work (6MWW), and estimated cardiorespiratory and muscular chain age were calculated. Signs of physical intolerance were determined including abnormal 6MWD ( ie ; 6MWD < lower limit of normal), chronotropic insufficiency (ie ; HREnd < 60% of maximal predicted HR (MPHR)), high dyspnea ( ie ; dyspneaEnd > 5), and desaturation ( ie ; drop in SpO 2 > 5 points).

Results

Compared to the CG (n=28), the CHB-group (n=26) exhibited significantly lower 6MWD by 61 meters (8%), lower 6MWW by 10%, and lower HR End by 21% (when expressed in bpm) and 17% (when expressed in %MPHR). The CHB-group, compared to the CG, included higher percentages of participants with chronotropic insufficiency and abnormal 6MWD (23.08% vs. 3.57%, and 34.61% vs. 3.57%, respectively). The CHB-group was 8.1 and 14.3 times more likely to have chronotropic insufficiency and abnormal 6MWD than the CG, respectively. CHB accelerated the aging of the cardiorespiratory and muscular chain by 11 years.

Conclusion

Non-cirrhotic CHB may contribute to reduced submaximal aerobic capacity and acceleration of cardiorespiratory and muscular chain aging.

Premature aging and metabolic diseases: the impact of telomere attrition

Driven by genetic and environmental factors, aging is a physiological process responsible for age-related degenerative changes in the body, cognitive decline, and impaired overall wellbeing. Notably, premature aging as well as the emergence of progeroid syndromes have posed concerns regarding chronic health conditions and comorbidities in the aging population. Accelerated telomere attrition is also implicated in metabolic dysfunction and the development of metabolic disorders. Impaired metabolic homeostasis arises secondary to age-related increases in the synthesis of free radicals, decreased oxidative capacity, impaired antioxidant defense, and disrupted energy metabolism. In particular, several cellular and molecular mechanisms of aging have been identified to decipher the influence of premature aging on metabolic diseases. These include defective DNA repair, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, and dysregulation of nutrient-sensing pathways. The role of telomere attrition premature aging in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases has been largely attributed to pro-inflammatory states that promote telomere shortening, genetic mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase, epigenetic alteration, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunctions. Nonetheless, the therapeutic interventions focus on restoring the length of telomeres and may include treatment approaches to restore telomerase enzyme activity, promote alternative lengthening of telomeres, counter oxidative stress, and decrease the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Given the significance and robust potential of delaying telomere attrition in age-related metabolic diseases, this review aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of aging underlying premature telomere attrition and metabolic diseases, assimilating evidence from both human and animal studies.

Hepatotoxicity evaluation method through multiple-factor analysis using human pluripotent stem cell derived hepatic organoids

Prediction of the potential for drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in the early stages of drug development is important. We developed an organoid-based and functional endpoint method for accurate prediction of DILI. To this end, hepatic organoids (HOs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) were cocultured with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and THP-1 macrophages in Matrigel domes to mimic the cellular and physiological environment of the human liver. To validate our hepatotoxicity prediction model, we selected 12 hepatotoxic reference compounds. As indicators, we used factors related to mechanisms of hepatotoxicity and markers thereof, including factors related to oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines. We plotted radar graphs and calculated the relative areas of polygons to analyze the effects of drugs with different degrees of hepatotoxicity. The drugs in the severe DILI group significantly increased the levels of factors related to oxidative stress (ROS, GSSH, and catalase) compared to those in the no and mild DILI groups. The drugs in the severe group significantly increased the levels of inflammation-related factors (IL-1, IL-6, and IL-10). The drugs in the mild and severe groups highly significantly increased the activities of ALT and AST and the level of ALB compared to those in the no DILI group. In summary, the drugs in the severe DILI group had significantly greater effects on the factors analyzed than those in the no DILI group. Therefore, our hepatotoxicity evaluation method is suitable for predicting DILI in the early stages of drug development.

TNF/TNFR1 Signaling Mediates DEHP-Induced Hepatocyte Pyroptosis via the GSDMD-mtROS Axis

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), which is widely used in agricultural plastics, accumulates in humans and animals through the food chain over time, resulting in liver toxicity. Recent studies have reported that pyroptosis and mitochondrial damage are closely related to a variety of liver diseases, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. To address this issue, in vitro and in vivo hepatotoxicity models were established. The results demonstrated that exposure to DEHP caused a buildup of MEHP in livers, altered liver metabolite composition, and caused pyroptosis-like changes in hepatocytes. After DEHP treatment, REDOX homeostasis was unbalanced, and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) were overproduced. MEHP exposure activates pyroptosis mediated by TNF/TNFR1 signaling and upregulates the perforating protein GSDMD-N to destroy the mitochondrial membrane of hepatocytes. Above all, this study elucidates the potential involvement of TNF/TNFR1 signaling-mediated pyroptosis in mitochondrial damage and confirms that the regulation of pyroptosis is helpful in maintaining normal mitochondrial function.

Recent advancement in prevention against hepatotoxicity, molecular mechanisms, and bioavailability of gallic acid, a natural phenolic compound: challenges and perspectives

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) results from the liver toxicity caused by drugs or their metabolites. Gallic acid (GA) is a naturally occurring secondary metabolite found in many fruits, plants, and nuts. Recently, GA has drawn increasing attention due to its potent pharmacological properties, particularly its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review to focus on the pharmacological properties of GA and related molecular activation mechanisms regarding protection against hepatotoxicity. We also provide a thorough explanation of the physicochemical properties, fruit sources, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics of GA after reviewing a substantial number of studies. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that GA is quickly absorbed and eliminated when taken orally, which restricts its use in development. However, the bioavailability of GA can be increased by optimizing its structure or changing its form of administration. Notably, according to toxicology studies conducted on a range of animals and clinical trials, GA rarely exhibits toxicity or side effects. The antioxidation mechanisms mainly involved Nrf2, while anti-inflammatory mechanisms involved MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways. Owing to its marked pharmacological properties, GA is a prospective candidate for the management of diverse xenobiotic-induced hepatotoxicity. We also discuss the applications of cutting-edge technologies (nano-delivery systems, network pharmacology, and liver organoids) in DILI. In addition to guiding future research and development of GA as a medicine, this study offers a theoretical foundation for its clinical application.

Diverse Subsets of γδT Cells and Their Specific Functions Across Liver Diseases

γδT cells, a distinct group of T lymphocytes, serve as a link between innate and adaptive immune responses. They are pivotal in the pathogenesis of various liver disorders, such as viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), liver fibrosis, autoimmune liver diseases, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite their importance, the functional diversity and regulatory mechanisms of γδT cells remain incompletely understood. Recent advances in high-throughput single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have revealed significant heterogeneity among γδT cell subsets, particularly Vδ1+ and Vδ2+, which exhibit distinct immunological roles. Vδ1+ T cells are mainly tissue-resident and contribute to tumor immunity and chronic inflammation, while Vδ2+ T cells, predominantly found in peripheral blood, play roles in systemic immune surveillance but may undergo dysfunction in chronic liver diseases. Additionally, γδT17 cells exacerbate inflammation in NAFLD and ALD, whereas IFN-γ-secreting γδT cells contribute to antiviral and antifibrotic responses. These discoveries have laid the foundation for the creation of innovative solutions. γδT cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches, such as adoptive cell transfer, immune checkpoint inhibition, and strategies targeting metabolic pathways. Future research should focus on harnessing γδT cells' therapeutic potential through targeted interventions, offering promising prospects for precision immunotherapy in liver diseases.

Isoquercitrin Attenuates Oxidative Liver Damage Through AMPK-YAP Signaling: An Integrative In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Study

Isoquercitrin, a flavonoid glycoside found in various plants, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. However, its hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanisms against oxidative liver injury remain unclear. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of isoquercitrin using integrated in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches. HepG2 cells exposed to arachidonic acid (AA) and iron exhibited oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, which was significantly attenuated by isoquercitrin treatment, as evidenced by increased cell viability and reduced apoptosis-related protein alterations. Isoquercitrin decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and preserved mitochondrial function in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking and Western blot analyses revealed that isoquercitrin activates the LKB1/AMPK pathway, increasing phosphorylation of AMPK and its downstream target ACC, thereby modulating energy metabolism and reducing oxidative stress. This activation was LKB1 dependent, as confirmed in LKB1-deficient HeLa cells. Additionally, isoquercitrin modulated the YAP signaling pathway in hepatic cells. In vivo, isoquercitrin protected mice against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury, reducing serum ALT and AST levels and improving histopathological features. These findings suggest that isoquercitrin exerts hepatoprotective effects by activating the LKB1/AMPK pathway and modulating metabolic enzymes, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent against oxidative liver damage.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Citri reticulatae Pericarpium and Chaenomelese speciosa (Sweet) Nakai Extracts in Alcohol-Related Liver Injury: Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Lipid Metabolism, and Gut Microbiota

Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption induces alcohol-related liver injury (ALI), characterized by oxidative stress (OS), disrupted lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Given the lack of effective pharmacological treatments, flavonoid-rich fruits have attracted growing attention as potential intervention strategies. This study investigated the independent and combined effects of extracts from Citri reticulatae pericarpium (CRPE) and Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai (CSPE), previously shown to possess hepatoprotective properties, in a mouse model of ethanol-induced chronic ALI. The flavonoid composition of CRPE and CSPE was characterized using LC-MS/MS, and their potential mechanisms of action were further elucidated through transcriptomic analysis. The results showed that CRPE and CSPE, whether administered individually or in combination, effectively alleviated alcohol-induced hepatic histological damage and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, both extracts significantly reduced OS and improved lipid metabolism. Notably, CRPE, CSPE, and their combination regulated the gut microbiota, as shown by increased abundances of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, along with elevated levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These findings highlight that combinations of multiple fruit extracts exhibit significant potential in alleviating ALI by modulating the gut microbiota, providing valuable insights for the development of functional foods.

Oxidative stress in a cellular model of alcohol-related liver disease: protection using curcumin nanoformulations

Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is a global health issue causing significant morbidity and mortality, due to lack of suitable therapeutic options. ARLD induces a spectrum of biochemical and cellular alterations, including chronic oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell death, resulting in hepatic injury. Natural antioxidant compounds such as curcumin have generated interest in ARLD due to their ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), however, therapy using these compounds is limited due to poor bioavailability and stability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant potential of free antioxidants and curcumin entrapped formulations against oxidative damage in an ARLD cell model. HepG2 (VL-17A) cells were treated with varying concentrations of alcohol (from 200 to 350 mM) and parameters of oxidative stress and mitochondrial function were assessed over 72 h. Data indicated 350 mM of ethanol led to a significant decrease in cell viability at 72 h, and a significant increase in ROS at 30 min. A substantial number of cells were in late apoptosis at 72 h, and a reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential was also found. Pre-treatment with curcumin nanoformulations increased viability, as well as, reducing ROS at 2 h, 48 h and 72 h. In summary, antioxidants and entrapped nanoformulations of curcumin were able to ameliorate reduced cell viability and increased ROS caused by ethanol treatment. This demonstrates their potential at mitigating oxidative damage and warrants further investigation to evaluate their efficacy for ARLD therapy.

Amelioration of Alcoholic Hepatic Steatosis in a Rat Model via Consumption of Poly-γ-Glutamic Acid-Enriched Fermented Protaetia brevitarsis Larvae Using Bacillus subtilis

Alcoholic hepatic steatosis (AHS) is a common early-stage symptom of liver disease caused by alcohol consumption. Accordingly, several aspects of AHS have been studied as potential preventive and therapeutic targets. In this study, a novel strategy was employed to inhibit fatty liver accumulation and counteract AHS through the consumption of microorganism-fermented Protaetia brevitarsis larvae (FPBs). By using an AHS rat model, we assessed the efficacy of FPB by examining the lipid profile of liver/serum and liver function tests to evaluate lipid metabolism modulation. After FPB administration, the lipid profile-including high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and total triglycerides-and histopathological characteristics exhibited improvement in the animal model. Interestingly, AHS amelioration via FPBs administration was potentially associated with poly-γ-glutamic acid (PγG), which is produced by Bacillus species during fermentation. These findings support the formulation of novel natural remedies for AHS through non-clinical animal studies, suggesting that PγG-enriched FPBs are a potentially valuable ingredient for functional foods, providing an ameliorative effect on AHS.

Mechanistic Insights into the Role of MCP-1 in Diverse Liver Pathological Conditions: A Recent Update

Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is regarded as a crucial proinflammatory cytokine that controls the migration and entry of macrophages. It has been demonstrated that chemokine ligand 2 and its receptor, chemokine receptor 2, are both implicated in several liver disorders. In a similar context, immunity mediators are overexpressed and stimulated by MCP-1. Additionally, MCP-1 alters the physiology of the hepatocytes, promoting immunologic and inflammatory responses beyond regular metabolism. Alcoholism and other factor including abnormal diet stimulate the liver's synthesis of MCP-1, which can result in inflammation in liver. Studies shows how MCP-1' linked to various liver disorders like alcoholic liver disease, liver fibrosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis, hepatic steatosis, hepatocellular cancer, primary biliary cirrhosis. MCP-1 not only predicts the onset, progression, and prognosis of the illness, but it is also directly related to the degree and stage of liver inflammation. In this review, we will explore the mechanism and connection between MCP-1's overexpression in liver disorders, further how it can be linked as a therapeutic biomarker in the above scenario.

Molecular plasticity to ocean warming and habitat loss in a coral reef fish

Sea surface temperatures are rising at unprecedented rates, leading to a progressive degradation of complex habitats formed by coral reefs. In parallel, acute thermal stress can lead to physiological challenges for ectotherms that inhabit coral reefs, including fishes. Warming and habitat simplification could push marine fishes beyond their physiological limits in the near future. Specifically, questions remain on how warming and habitat structure influence the brains of marine fishes. Here we evaluated how thermal stress and habitat loss are acting independently and synergistically as stressors in a damselfish of the Western Atlantic, Abudefduf saxatilis. For this experiment, 40 individuals were exposed to different combinations of temperature (27 °C or 31 °C) and habitat complexity (complex vs. simple) for 10 days, and changes in brain gene expression and oxidative stress of liver and muscle were evaluated. The results indicate that warming resulted in increased oxidative damage in the liver (P = 0.007) and changes in gene expression of the brain including genes associated with neurotransmission, immune function, and tissue repair. Individuals from simplified habitats showed higher numbers of differentially expressed genes and changes for genes associated with synaptic plasticity and spatial memory. In addition, a reference transcriptome of A. saxatilis is presented here for the first time, serving as a resource for future molecular studies. This project enhances our understanding of how fishes are responding to the combination of coral reef degradation and thermal stress while elucidating the plastic mechanisms that will enable generalists to persist in a changing world.

Flavonoid Derivatives Isolated from Hypericum monogynum Ameliorate Insulin Resistance via Modulation of IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/FOXO1 Pathway in HepG2 Cells

In this study, two high-content flavonoid derivatives [3-8 biapigenin (HM 104) and quercetin-3-O-β-d-galactopyranoside (HM 111)] were obtained through the bioactivity-guided isolation of antidiabetic compounds from Hypericum monogynum flowers. HM 104 and HM 111 exhibited good glucose consumption in fatty acid-induced insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Moreover, both active compounds enhanced glucose uptake by restoring the expression of key regulators of glucose metabolism, including insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, protein kinase B, and glucose transporter type 4, and by mitigating the expression of forkhead box O1 and the factors involved in gluconeogenesis. They upregulate the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, which may affect glycogen synthesis. Furthermore, the production of reactive oxygen species was decreased by the two compounds. This study provides novel mechanistic insights into the protective effects of flavonoid derivatives isolated from H. monogynum flowers in preventing and managing insulin resistance and associated metabolic disorders.

An Nrf2-NF-κB Crosstalk Controls Hepatocyte Proliferation in the Normal and Injured Liver

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The liver has remarkable regenerative and detoxification capacities, which require the Nrf2 and NF-κB transcription factors. Although their individual functions in hepatocytes are well characterized, knowledge about their crosstalk in the adult liver is limited.

METHODS

We performed AAV8-Cre inducible, hepatocyte-specific knockout of Nrf2, the NF-κB subunit p65, or both genes to determine the individual and combined roles of these transcription factors in the intact liver of male adult mice and after acute CCl4 injury. Mice were characterized using histologic and immunohistochemical stainings, serum and liver bile acid analysis, flow cytometry, and RNA sequencing. To distinguish between cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous mechanisms, we generated and analyzed knockout and knockdown AML12 liver cells. Clodronate liposome-mediated macrophage depletion was used to determine the role of these immune cells in hepatocyte proliferation after CCl4 injection.

RESULTS

Loss of p65 alone or p65 in combination with Nrf2 caused spontaneous liver inflammation and necrosis. Gene expression profiling identified individual and common target genes of both transcription factors, including genes involved in the control of cell proliferation. Consistent with the expression of these genes, hepatocyte proliferation was reduced by Nrf2 deficiency under homeostatic conditions and after CCl4 injury, which was rescued by additional loss of p65. The increased hepatocyte proliferation in the double-knockout mice was non-cell-autonomous and correlated with macrophage accumulation in the liver. Depletion of macrophages in these mice suppressed hepatocyte proliferation after CCl4 treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results reveal a crosstalk between Nrf2 and p65 in the control of hepatocyte proliferation and point to a key role of macrophages in this effect.

Cell-cell communications in the brain of hepatic encephalopathy: The neurovascular unit

Many patients with liver diseases are exposed to the risk of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). The incidence of HE in liver patients is high, showing various symptoms ranging from mild symptoms to coma. Liver transplantation is one of the ways to overcome HE. However, not all patients can receive liver transplantation. Moreover, patients who have received liver transplantation have limitations in that they are vulnerable to hepatocellular carcinoma, allograft rejection, and infection. To find other therapeutic strategies, it is important to understand pathological factors and mechanisms that lead to HE after liver disease. Oxidative stress, inflammatory response, hyperammonaemia and metabolic disorders seen after liver diseases have been reported as risk factors of HE. These are known to affect the brain and cause HE. These peripheral pathological factors can impair the blood-brain barrier, cause it to collapse and damage the neurovascular unit component of multiple cells, including vascular endothelial cells, astrocytes, microglia, and neurons, leading to HE. Many previous studies on HE have suggested the impairment of neurovascular unit and cell-cell communication in the pathogenesis of HE. This review focuses on pathological factors that appear in HE, cell type-specific pathological mechanisms, miscommunication/incorrect relationships, and therapeutic candidates between brain cells in HE. This review suggests that regulating communications and interactions between cells may be important in overcoming HE.

Research progress on pharmacological effects against liver and eye diseases of flavonoids present in Chrysanthum indicum L., Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat., Buddleja officinalis Maxim. and Sophora japonica L

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chrysanthemum indicum L., Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat., Buddleja officinalis Maxim., and Sophora japonica L. have the effects of "Clearing the liver" and "Improving vision". Flavonoids are their main active ingredients, but there are few reports on their simultaneous liver and eye protective effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Overview of the role of flavonoids of the four medicinal flowers (FFMF) in the prevention and treatment of liver and eye diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, Google Scholar, and WanFang databases were searched for FFMF. Using "hepatitis", "liver fibrosis", "liver cancer", "dry eye syndrome", "cataracts", "glaucoma", "age-related macular degeneration", and "diabetic retinopathy" as the keywords, we summarized the main pathological mechanisms of these diseases and the role of FFMF in their prevention and treatment.

RESULTS

We found that the four medicinal flowers contained a total of 125 flavonoids. They can maintain liver and eye homeostasis by regulating pathological mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, and programmed cell death, exerting the effect of "clearing the liver and improving vision".

CONCLUSION

FFMF have a series of beneficial properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifibrotic activity, and the regulation of angiogenesis, glycolipid metabolism and programmed cell death, which may explain the efficacy of the four traditional Chinese medicines for "Clearing the liver" and "Improving vision".

Therapeutic effects of reduced glutathione on liver function, fibrosis, and HBV DNA clearance in chronic hepatitis B patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic impact of reduced glutathione combined with entecavir on liver function, fibrosis, and HBV-DNA clearance in chronic hepatitis B patients.

METHODS

This was a randomized controlled trial. This study included 90 patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B, who were randomly divided into two groups (observation group and control group) using a random number table, with 45 patients in each group. The control group received standard entecavir treatment (0.5 mg/time, once a day, continuous treatment for 3 months), while the observation group received a combination therapy of reduced glutathione and the standard entecavir treatment. Liver function markers (ALT, TBIL, AST, ALB), fibrosis markers (HA, PC III, LN), and liver fibrosis grades were assessed pre-and post-treatment. HBV-DNA negative conversion rates were recorded at 4, 12, 24, and 48 weeks. The incidence of adverse reactions, including nausea, vomiting, headache, and mild gastric discomfort, was recorded and compared between the two groups during the treatment period.

RESULTS

ALT decreased from 348.96 ± 31.47 U/L to 31.11 ± 9.78 U/L in the observation group and from 347.90 ± 31.40 U/L to 56.90 ± 16.32 U/L in the control group (P < 0.05). TBIL decreased from 61.78 ± 4.94 µmol/L to 18.82 ± 2.93 µmol/L in the observation group and from 61.32 ± 4.93 µmol/L to 26.70 ± 4.44 µmol/L in the control group (P < 0.05). ALB increased from 29.65 ± 0.94 g/L to 48.76 ± 4.85 g/L in the observation group and from 29.77 ± 0.90 g/L to 34.12 ± 0.84 g/L in the control group (P < 0.05). The observation group showed greater reductions in HA, PC III, and LN, and improved liver fibrosis grades (P < 0.05). HBV-DNA negative conversion rates in the observation group were 15.56%, 35.56%, 60.00%, and 68.89% at 4, 12, 24, and 48 weeks, respectively, compared to 2.22%, 6.67%, 17.78%, and 42.22% in the control group (P < 0.05). Adverse reaction rates were 8.89% in the observation group and 20.00% in the control group (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Reduced glutathione combined with entecavir significantly improves liver function, reduces liver fibrosis, and enhances HBV-DNA clearance in chronic hepatitis B patients without increasing adverse reactions.

Dose-Dependent PFESA-BP2 Exposure Increases Risk of Liver Toxicity and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent and highly bioaccumulative emerging environmental contaminants of concern that display significant toxic and carcinogenic effects. An emerging PFAS is PFESA-BP2, a polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonic acid found in drinking water and the serum of humans and animals. While PFESA-BP2-induced liver and intestinal toxicity has been demonstrated, the toxicological mechanisms and carcinogenic potential of PFESA-BP2 have remained relatively understudied. Here, we studied how different doses of PFESA-BP2 affect gene activity related to liver toxicity and the risk of liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice exposed to PFESA-BP2 once daily through oral gavage for seven days. An analysis of key hepatic pathways suggested increased risk of hepatotoxicity as a result of PFESA-BP2 exposure. Increased oxidative stress response was associated with all concentrations of exposure. Liver toxicity pathways, including PXR/RXR activation and hepatic fibrosis, showed dose-dependent alteration with activation primarily at low doses, suggesting an increased risk of hepatic inflammation and injury. Additionally, an analysis of carcinogenic and HCC-specific pathways suggested PFESA-BP2-induced risk of liver cancer, particularly at low doses. Low-dose PFESA-BP2 exposure (0.03 and 0.3 mg/kg-day) was associated with an increased risk of HCC carcinogenesis, as indicated by the activation of tumor-related and HCC-associated pathways. In contrast, these pathways were inhibited at high doses (3.0 and 6.0 mg/kg-day), accompanied by the activation of HCC-suppressive pathways. The increased risk of HCC development at low doses was mechanistically linked to the activation of signaling pathways such as HIF, EGF, NOTCH4, HGF, and VEGF. Biomarkers linked to liver cancer risk, prognoses, and diagnoses were also identified as a result of exposure. Overall, our findings on liver carcinogenic and hepatotoxic pathway activation patterns suggest that PFESA-BP2 increases the risk of liver toxicity and HCC development, particularly at low doses.

Cell-free hemoglobin released from hemolysis induces programmed cell death through iron overload and oxidative stress in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

Intravascular hemolysis releases hemoglobin (Hb) from red blood cells under specific conditions, yet the effect of hemolysis in aquaculture systems remain poorly understood. In this study, a continuous hemolysis model for grass carp was established by injection of phenylhydrazine (PHZ) to investigate the mechanistic impacts of sustained hemolysis. PHZ-induced hemolysis altered liver color, and subsequent hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed substantial Hb accumulation in the head kidney, accompanied by inflammatory cell infiltration and vacuolization in liver tissue. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting confirmed that PHZ treatment significantly upregulated Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot confirmed that PHZ treatment significantly up-regulated the expression of iron metabolism-related genes and proteins, including transferrin (Tf), ferritin, ferroportin 1 (FPN1), transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1), nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4), divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), and six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 3 (STEAP3). Further investigation of PHZ-induced hemolysis effects on tissues showed that inflammation- and antioxidant enzyme-related genes in the liver and head kidney were significantly upregulated, indicating that hemolysis activated the antioxidant system and intensified inflammatory responses. Perls' staining revealed iron deposition in the head kidney and liver at ten and fourteen days post-PHZ injection. Moreover, β-galactosidase staining and transmission electron microscopy showed increased cellular senescence and mitochondrial damage, respectively, as a result of PHZ-induced hemolysis. In vitro assays with hemin treatment demonstrated increased Fe2+ content in CIK and L8824 cells, which induced oxidative stress, upregulated iron metabolism and inflammatory genes, and ultimately led to cell death. These findings suggest that excessive Hb release during sustained hemolysis leads to iron overload, elevates reactive oxygen species production, disrupts antioxidant balance, and ultimately causes cellular damage.

Hydrogen peroxide damage to rat liver sinusoidal endothelial cells is prevented by n-acetyl-cysteine but not GSH

BACKGROUND

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are prevalent in the liver during intoxication, infection, inflammation, and aging. Changes in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) are associated with various liver diseases.

METHODS

Isolated rat LSEC were studied under oxidative stress induced by H2O2 at different concentrations (0.5-1000 µM) and exposure times (10-120 min). LSEC functions were tested in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner.

RESULTS

(1) Cell viability, reducing potential, and scavenging function decreased as H2O2 concentration and exposure time increased; (2) intracellular ROS levels rose with higher H2O2 concentrations; (3) fenestrations exhibited a dynamic response, initially closing but partially reopening at H2O2 concentrations above 100 µM after about 1 hour; (4) scavenging function was affected after just 10 minutes of exposure, with the impact being irreversible and primarily affecting degradation rather than receptor-mediated uptake; (5) the tubulin network was disrupted in high H2O2 concentration while the actin cytoskeleton appears to remain largely intact. Finally, we found that reducing agents and thiol donors such as n-acetyl cysteine and glutathione (GSH) could protect cells from ROS-induced damage but could not reverse existing damage as pretreatment with n-acetyl cysteine, but not GSH, reduced the negative effects of ROS exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that LSEC does not store an excess amount of GSH but rather can readily produce it in the occurrence of oxidative stress conditions. Moreover, the observed thresholds in dose-dependent and time-dependent changes, as well as the treatments with n-acetyl cysteine/GSH, confirm the existence of a ROS-depleting system in LSEC.

Profiling the antidiabetic potential of GC-MS compounds identified from the methanolic extract of Spilanthes filicaulis: experimental and computational insight

This study examines the nutritional composition, phytochemical profiling, and antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory potential of a methanolic extract of Spilanthes filicaulis leaves (MESFL) via in vitro, ex vivo, and in silico studies. In vitro antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities were examined. In the ex vivo study, liver tissues were subjected to FeSO4-induced oxidative damage and treated with varying concentrations of MESFL. MESFL contains a reasonable amount of nitrogen-free extract, moisture, ash content, crude protein, and fat, with a lesser amount of crude fiber. According to GC-MS analysis, MESFL contains ten compounds, the most abundant of which are 13-octadecenal and Ar-tumerone. In this study, MESFL demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities via membrane stabilizing properties, proteinase inhibition, and inhibition of protein denaturation (IC50 = 72.75 ± 11.06 µg/mL). MESFL also strongly inhibited both α-amylase (IC50 = 307.02 ± 4.25 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50 = 215.51 ± 0.47 µg/mL) activities. Our findings also showed that FeSO4-induced tissue damage decreased the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT activities while increasing the levels of MDA. In contrast, treatment with MESFL helped to restore these parameters to near-normal levels, which signifies that MESFL has great potential to address complications from oxidative stress. Furthermore, the in silico interaction of the GCMS-identified phytochemicals with the active sites of α-amylase and α-glucosidase via molecular and ensembled-based docking displayed strong binding affinities of Ar-tumerone and 4-hydroxy-3-methylacetophenone to α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Taken together, the biological activities of MESFL might be a result of the effects of these secondary metabolites.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Exploring the role of curcumin in mitigating oxidative stress to alleviate lipid metabolism disorders

Lipid metabolism plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health, as lipids are essential molecules involved in bioenergetic processes. An increasing body of research indicates that disorders of lipid metabolism can contribute to the development and progression of various diseases, including hyperlipidemia, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and cancer, potentially leading to poor prognoses. The activation of the oxidative stress pathway disrupts lipid metabolism and induces cellular stress, significantly contributing to metabolic disorders. A well-documented crosstalk and interconnection between these metabolic disorders exists. Consequently, researchers have sought to identify antioxidant-rich substances in readily accessible everyday foods for potential use as complementary therapies. Curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has been shown to enhance cellular antioxidant activity, mitigate oxidative stress, and alleviate lipid metabolism disorders by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. These effects include decreasing fat deposition, increasing fatty acid uptake, and improving insulin sensitivity. A review of the existing literature reveals numerous studies emphasizing the role of curcumin in the prevention and management of metabolic diseases. Curcumin influences metabolic disorders through multiple mechanisms of action, with the oxidative stress pathway playing a central role in various lipid metabolism disorders. Thus, we aimed to elucidate the role of curcumin in various metabolic disorders through a unified mechanism of action, offering new insights into the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases. Firstly, this article provides a brief overview of the basic pathophysiological processes of oxidative stress and lipid metabolism, as well as the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of lipid metabolism disorders. Notably, the article reviews the role of curcumin in mitigating oxidative stress and in preventing and treating diseases associated with lipid metabolism disorders, including hyperlipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), atherosclerosis, obesity, and diabetes, thereby highlighting the therapeutic potential of curcumin in lipid metabolism-related diseases.

Weizmannia coagulans BC99 Attenuates Oxidative Stress Induced by Acute Alcoholic Liver Injury via Nrf2/SKN-1 Pathway and Liver Metabolism Regulation

Acute alcoholic liver injury (AALI) remains a significant global health concern, primarily driven by oxidative stress. This study investigated the protective mechanisms of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 against alcohol-induced oxidative stress using a dual model in rats and Caenorhabditis elegans. In rats, excessive alcohol was predominantly metabolized via the CYP2E1 pathway, leading to severe oxidative stress. However, intervention with BC99 suppressed CYP2E1 expression and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities through the Nrf2/SKN-1 pathway, thereby alleviating oxidative stress. Additionally, BC99 treatment elevated glutamate and aspartate levels while reducing glycerate and glucose, which collectively increased glutathione levels and mitigated oxidative stress triggered by glucose metabolism disorders. In C. elegans, BC99 reduced excessive ROS by upregulating Nrf2/skn-1, daf-16, and their downstream antioxidant genes, consequently alleviating the biotoxicity associated with alcohol-induced oxidative damage. The protective effects of BC99 were markedly diminished in the skn-1 mutant (GR2245) and daf-16 mutant (CF1038), further confirming the pivotal roles of SKN-1 and DAF-16 pathways in BC99-mediated antioxidant protection. Taken together, these findings reveal that BC99 mitigates alcohol-induced oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/SKN-1 pathway and regulating liver metabolites to eliminate excess ROS, thereby providing a theoretical basis for the application of probiotics in preventing acute alcoholic liver injury.

Exploring the association between air pollution and the incidence of liver cancers

Liver cancer, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a major global health concern deeply influenced by environmental factors. Air pollutants emerged as significant contributors to its incidence. This review explores the association between air pollution-specifically particulate matter (PM2.5), industrial chemicals like vinyl chloride, and benzene-and the increased risk of liver cancer. Mechanistically, air pollutants may cause liver damage by inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and genetic mutations, contributing to cancer development. Epidemiological evidence from cohort and geographic studies highlights a positive correlation between long-term exposure to air pollutants and elevated incidence and mortality of liver cancer. Furthermore, air pollution has been shown to worsen survival outcomes in liver cancer patients, particularly those diagnosed at early stages. The review emphasizes the need for stricter air quality regulations and relevant research for underlying mechanisms exposed to air pollution. Addressing air pollution exposure could be crucial for reducing liver cancer risks and improving public health outcomes.

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Oxidases and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterized by lipid accumulation in the liver due to an excess in their supplies or an impairment in their management. While some patients remain stable for years, a proportion of them progress up to steatohepatitis (MASH). MASLD links with systemic pathways being associated with metabolic and non-metabolic diseases. Although liver lipid accumulation represents the first hit for MASLD, the pathophysiology of its development and progression to MASH remains not completely understood. Oxidative stress has received particular attention in recent years, as most of the oxidative process occurs in the liver, which is also the target of oxidative stress-induced damage. Growing evidence linked the activity of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (NOX) to the increased liver production of reactive oxygen species up to liver damage and fibrosis. NOX acts both in hepatocytes and in non-parenchymal hepatic cells, contributing to hepatocyte lipotoxicity, impaired hepatic microcirculation, hepatic stellate, and mesenchymal stem cells activation and proliferation. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the involvement of oxidative stress in the MASLD-MASH transition, focusing on the role of NOX isoforms, and to suggest targeting NOX as a therapeutic approach in MASLD.

Bacillus coagulans alleviates hepatic injury caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae in rabbits

BACKGROUND

As an opportunistic bacterial pathogen, Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) is prone to causing a spectrum of diseases in rabbits when their immune system is compromised, which poses a threat to rabbit breeding industry. Bacillus coagulans (BC), recognized as an effective probiotic, confers a variety of benefits including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether dietary BC can effectively alleviate hepatic injury caused by KP.

METHODS

In this study, the rabbits were initially pretreated with varying doses of BC (1×106, 5×106, and 1×107 CFU/g), followed by a challenge with KP at a concentration of 1011 CFU/mL. Liver tissues were harvested and processed for histological assessment using H&E and VG stains to assess structural alterations. Biochemical assays were employed to quantify the enzymatic activities of T-SOD and GSH-Px, as well as the MDA content. Furthermore, ELISA was utilized to detect the levels of inflammatory cytokine (IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) and apoptotic-related gene (Bcl-2, Bax).

RESULTS

Morphological observation indicated that BC can effectively mitigate KP-induced hepatic sinusoidal dilatation and congestion, as well as ameliorate the degree of hepatic fibrosis. Further analysis showed that BC significantly lowered MDA level in KP-treated rabbits, while enhanced the activities of T-SOD and GSH-Px. Additionally, ELISA result showed that BC pretreatment significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-6, IL-1β and pro-apoptotic gene Bax, while increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 in KP-treated rabbits.

CONCLUSION

Above data indicate that BC supplementation effectively attenuated oxidative stress and inflammatory response induced by KP through augmenting the activities of antioxidant enzymes and diminishing the levels of pro-inflammatory factors. Furthermore, it reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in the liver, thereby inhibiting KP-induced apoptosis. The treatment group receiving 5x106 CFU/g BC benefitted most from the protective effect.

Dietary Se-enrich Cardamine violifolia supplementation decreases lipid deposition and improves antioxidant status in the liver of aging laying hens

Aging-related lipid metabolic disorder is related to oxidative stress. Selenium (Se)-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) is known for its excellent antioxidant function. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of SEC on antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism in the liver of aged laying hens. A total of 450 sixty-five-wk-old Roman laying hens were randomly divided into 5 treatments: a basal diet (without Se supplementation, CON) and basal diets supplemented with 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEY), 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEC (SEC), or 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEC and 0.3 mg/kg Se from SEY (SEC + SEY). The experiment lasted for 8 wk. The results showed that dietary SEC + SEY supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) triglyceride (in the plasma and liver) and total cholesterol levels (in the plasma), and increased (P < 0.05) HDL-C concentration in plasma compared to CON diet. Compared with CON diet, SEC and/or SEY supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) the mRNA expression of hepatic ACC, FAS and HMGCR, and increased (P < 0.05) PPARα, VTG-II, Apo-VLDL II and ApoB expression. Dietary SEC + SEY and SEY supplementation increased (P < 0.05) Se content in egg yolk and breast muscle compared to CON diet. Dietary SEC, SEY or SEC + SEY supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the activity of antioxidant enzymes (GSH-PX, T-AOC and T-SOD) in the plasma and liver and decreased (P < 0.05) MDA content in the plasma compared to CON diet. Dietary Se supplementation promoted (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of Nrf2 in the liver. In contrast, dietary SEY and SEC supplementation resulted in a decrease (P < 0.05) of hepatic Keap1 mRNA expression compared to CON diet. Dietary SEC + SEY and/or SEC supplementation increased (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of Selenof, GPX1 and GPX4 in the liver compared with CON diet. In conclusion, dietary SEC (0.3 mg/kg Se) or SEC (0.3 mg/kg Se) + SEY (0.3 mg/kg Se) improved the antioxidant capacity and the lipid metabolism in the liver of aged laying hens, which might be associated with regulating Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway.

Unveiling the Interplay: Antioxidant Enzyme Polymorphisms and Oxidative Stress in Preterm Neonatal Renal and Hepatic Functions

AIMS

To explore the relationship between oxidative stress biomarkers and the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) alongside notable liver function disturbances in preterm neonates.

BACKGROUND

Given the immaturity of kidneys and incomplete liver development in preterm neonates, oxidative stress poses a considerable threat to their renal and hepatic health.

OBJECTIVE

To find out the association between various oxidative stress biomarkers and polymorphisms of antioxidant enzymes with renal and live functions.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we gathered umbilical cord blood and peripheral blood samples for assessing oxidative stress biomarkers and identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in antioxidant enzymes. Utilizing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits, we quantified these oxidative stress biomarkers. Receiver-operating characteristics curve analysis was employed to ascertain the predictive capacity of these biomarkers, denoted by the area-under-the-curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that umbilical cord heat-shock proteins emerged as robust predictors of neonatal AKI (AUC: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.8-1) with a defined cut-off concentration of 1.8 ng/mL. Likewise, umbilical cord 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy guanosine demonstrated significant predictability for liver function alterations (AUC: 0.7; 95% CI: 0.6-0.9) at a cut-off concentration of 2487.6 pg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed significant associations between SNPs in endothelial nitric oxide synthase and catalase with both AKI and impaired liver functions. Prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings, with a particular focus on exploring potential antioxidant interventions aimed at mitigating AKI and liver function abnormalities.

Rocaglamide-A mitigates LPS-induced hepatic inflammation by modulating JNK/AP-1 signaling cascade and ROS production in hepatocytes

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a gut-derived endotoxin, is a recognized risk factor for both Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Rocaglamide-A (Roc-A), a natural compound derived from the genus Aglaia, is known for its pharmacological and immunosuppressive effects on various cell types. Although our recent investigations have unveiled Roc-A's anti-adipogenic role in adipocytes, its mechanism in hepatic inflammation remains elusive. This study delves into Roc-A's protective effects on LPS-induced hepatic inflammation. Our results demonstrated that Roc-A treatment significantly reduced the LPS-induced production of inflammatory cytokines in hepatocytes. Intriguingly, Roc-A decreased LPS-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), upregulated antioxidant gene expression, and downregulated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related gene expression. Mechanistically, Roc-A significantly attenuated LPS-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and activator protein-1 (AP-1). Notably, this effect was abolished by the JNK activator Anisomycin, while the JNK inhibitor SP600125 enhanced it. Furthermore, Roc-A suppressed the expression of NF-κB target genes, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), thereby alleviating iNOS-derived nitric oxide (NO) production. These findings collectively indicate that Roc-A has the potential to alleviate LPS-induced nitrosative/oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation by inhibiting JNK phosphorylation. Thus, Roc-A emerges as a promising anti-inflammatory intervention for LPS-induced hepatic inflammation.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43188-024-00263-y.

Alpinetin Exhibits Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in C57BL/6 Mice with Alcoholic Liver Disease Induced by the Lieber-DeCarli Ethanol Liquid Diet

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a common non-communicable chronic liver disease characterized by a spectrum of conditions ranging from steatosis and alcohol-associated steatohepatitis (AH) to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of ALD involves a complex interplay of various molecular, biochemical, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. While the mechanisms are well studied, therapeutic options remain limited. Alpinetin, a natural flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown potential hepatoprotective effects, though its efficacy in ALD remains unexplored. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of alpinetin using a Lieber-DeCarli ethanol liquid diet model of ALD in C57BL/6 mice. Mice were divided into three groups: the control group, the ethanol group, and the ethanol group treated with alpinetin. Serum activity of ALT, AST, γ-GT, and ALP was measured to assess liver function, along with antioxidative and oxidative/nitrosative stress markers in liver tissue. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress parameters in liver tissue were also evaluated. Histological assessment of disease activity was performed using the SALVE grading and staging system. Treatment with alpinetin significantly reduced serum levels of ALT, AST, γ-GT, and oxidative/nitrosative stress markers while increasing antioxidative markers. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and ER stress parameters were significantly decreased. Histological analysis demonstrated reduced steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning, and inflammation. These findings suggest that alpinetin holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for managing ALD.

Metformin in Antiviral Therapy: Evidence and Perspectives

Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic medication, has emerged as a promising broad-spectrum antiviral agent due to its ability to modulate cellular pathways essential for viral replication. By activating AMPK, metformin depletes cellular energy reserves that viruses rely on, effectively limiting the replication of pathogens such as influenza, HIV, SARS-CoV-2, HBV, and HCV. Its role in inhibiting the mTOR pathway, crucial for viral protein synthesis and reactivation, is particularly significant in managing infections caused by HIV, CMV, and EBV. Furthermore, metformin reduces oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are critical for replicating arboviruses such as Zika and dengue. The drug also regulates immune responses, cellular differentiation, and inflammation, disrupting the life cycle of HPV and potentially other viruses. These diverse mechanisms suppress viral replication, enhance immune system functionality, and contribute to better clinical outcomes. This multifaceted approach highlights metformin's potential as an adjunctive therapy in treating a wide range of viral infections.

A multidisciplinary approach to the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of Arbutus pavarii Pampan fruit; in vitro and in Vivo biological evaluations, and in silico investigations

The Libyan Strawberry, Arbutus pavarii Pampan (ARB), is an endemic Jebel Akhdar plant used for traditional medicine. This study presents the antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of ARB fruit-extract. ARB phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of 354.54 GAE and 36.2 RE of the phenolics and flavonoids. LC-MS analysis identified 35 compounds belonging to phenolic acids, procyanidins, and flavonoid glycosides. Gallic acid, procyanidin dimer B3, β-type procyanidin trimer C, and quercetin-3-O-glucoside were the major constituents of the plant extract. ARB administration to paracetamol (PAR)-intoxicated rats reduced serum ALT, AST, bilirubin, hepatic tissue MDA and proinflammatory markers; TNF-α and IL-6 with an increase in tissue GSH level and SOD activity. Histological and immunohistochemical studies revealed that ARB restored the liver histology and significantly reduced the tissue expression of caspase 3, IL-1B, and NF-KB in PAR-induced liver damage. Docking analysis disclosed good binding affinities of some compounds with XO, COX-1, 5-LOX, and PI3K.

Alterations in Adipose Tissue and Adipokines in Heterozygous APE1/Ref-1 Deficient Mice

BACKGRUOUND

The role of apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/Ref-1) in adipose tissue remains poorly understood. This study investigates adipose tissue dysfunction in heterozygous APE1/Ref-1 deficiency (APE1/Ref-1+/-) mice, focusing on changes in adipocyte physiology, oxidative stress, adipokine regulation, and adipose tissue distribution.

METHODS

APE1/Ref-1 mRNA and protein levels in white adipose tissue (WAT) were measured in APE1/Ref-1+/- mice, compared to their wild-type (APE1/Ref-1+/+) controls. Oxidative stress was assessed by evaluating reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted to observe adipocyte size and macrophage infiltration of WAT. Adipokine expression was measured, and micro-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to quantify abdominal fat volumes.

RESULTS

APE1/Ref-1+/- mice exhibited significant reductions in APE1/Ref-1 mRNA and protein levels in WAT and liver tissue. These mice also showed elevated ROS levels, suggesting a regulatory role for APE1/Ref-1 in oxidative stress in WAT and liver. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed hypertrophic adipocytes and macrophage infiltration in WAT, while Oil Red O staining demonstrated enhanced ectopic fat deposition in the liver of APE1/Ref-1+/- mice. These mice also displayed altered adipokine expression, with decreased adiponectin and increased leptin levels in the WAT, along with corresponding alterations in plasma levels. Despite no significant changes in overall body weight, microMRI assessments demonstrated a significant increase in visceral and subcutaneous abdominal fat volumes in APE1/Ref-1+/- mice.

CONCLUSION

APE1/Ref-1 is crucial in adipokine regulation and mitigating oxidative stress. These findings suggest its involvement in adipose tissue dysfunction, highlighting its potential impact on abdominal fat distribution and its implications for obesity and oxidative stress-related conditions.

Constructing an adverse outcome pathway framework for the impact of maternal exposure to PM2.5 on liver development and injury in offspring

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a significant contributor to air pollution. PM2.5 exposure poses a substantial hazard to public health. In recent years, the adverse effects of maternal PM2.5 exposure on fetal health have gradually gained public attention. As the largest organ in the body, the liver has many metabolic and secretory functions. Liver development, as well as factors that interfere with its growth and function, are of concern. This review utilized the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework as the analytical approach to demonstrate the link between maternal PM2.5 exposure and potential neonatal liver injury from the molecular to the population level. The excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), subsequent endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and oxidative stress were regarded as the essential components in this framework, as they could trigger adverse developmental outcomes in the offspring through DNA damage, autophagy dysfunction, mitochondrial injury, and other pathways. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first article based on an AOP framework that elaborates on the influence of maternal exposure to PM2.5 on liver injury occurrence and adverse effects on liver development in offspring. Therefore, this review offered mechanistic insights into the developmental toxicity of PM2.5 in the liver, which provided a valuable basis for future studies and prevention strategies.

Anti-oxidative and immunological role of Cyclocarya paliurus polysaccharide on the liver injury of diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of Cyclocarya paliurus (C. paliurus) polysaccharide on the liver injury of diabetic rats.

METHODS

Rats were divided into 6 groups, including normal group, model group, control group, low-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment, middle-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment and high-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment. Histological analysis of liver was analyzed using hematoxilin and eosin. Levels of plasma biological parameters and anti-oxidative enzymes were determined by spectrophotometry. Nuclear factor kappa-B-p65 (NF-κB p65), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukins 6 (IL-6), IL-1β were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Compared with that of model group, the glucose level of plasma decreased 62.32% (P < 0.01), but glycogen and insulin level increased 1.51 times and 1.27 times in the high-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment, respectively. Plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level decreased 47.47% (P < 0.05), 43.65% (P < 0.05) and 50.51% (P < 0.05) in the high-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment, respectively. Superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase level increased 1.16 times (P < 0.01), 71.28% (P < 0.05), 1.29 times (P < 0.01) and 87.46% (P < 0.05) in the high-dose group of C. paliurus polysaccharide treatment, respectively. Enzyme activities of NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were decreased 39.29% (P < 0.05), 51.11% (P < 0.05), 37.42% (P < 0.05) and 36.50% (P < 0.05), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of C. paliurus polysaccharide may play a protecting role for liver injury of diabetic rats through lowering glucose, ALT, AST, ALP level, increasing glycogen and insulin level, enhancing the anti-oxidative ability and down-regulating the inflammatory factors expression.

Unravelling bisphenol A-induced hepatotoxicity: Insights into oxidative stress, inflammation, and energy dysregulation

Bisphenol A (BPA), a prevalent plastic monomer and endocrine disruptor, negatively impacts metabolic functions. This study examines the chronic effects of eco-relevant BPA concentrations on hepatotoxicity, focusing on redox balance, inflammatory response, cellular energy sensors, and metabolic homeostasis in male Swiss albino mice. Chronic BPA exposure resulted in reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, altered hepatic antioxidant defense, lipid peroxidation, and NOX4 expression, leading to reduced cell viability. Additionally, BPA exposure significantly upregulated hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokine genes (Tnf-α, Il-1β, Il-6), NOS2, and arginase II, correlating with increased TLR4 expression, NF-κB phosphorylation, and a dose-dependent decrease in IκBα levels. BPA-induced NF-κB nuclear localization and inflammasome activation (NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β) established an inflammatory milieu. Perturbations in hepatic AMPKα phosphorylation, SIRT1, and PGC-1α, along with elevated p38 MAPK phosphorylation and ERα expression, indicated BPA-induced energy dysregulation. Furthermore, increased PLA2G4A, COX1, COX2, and PTGES2 expression in BPA-treated liver correlated with hyperlipidemia, hepatic FASN expression, steatosis, and visceral adiposity, likely due to disrupted energy sensors, oxidative stress, and inflammasome activation. Elevated liver enzymes (ALP, AST, ALT) and apoptotic markers indicated liver damage. Notably, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) priming reversed BPA-induced hepatocellular ROS accumulation, NF-κB-inflammasome activation, and intracellular lipid accumulation, while upregulating cellular energy sensors and attenuating ERα expression, suggesting NAC's protective effects against BPA-induced hepatotoxicity. Pharmacological inhibition of the NF-κB/NLRP3 cascade in BAY11-7082 pretreated, or NLRP3 immunodepleted hepatocytes reversed BPA's negative impact on SIRT1/p-AMPKα/PGC-1α and intracellular lipid accumulation, providing mechanistic insights into BPA-induced metabolic disruption.

Caveolin-1 ameliorates hepatic injury in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by inhibiting ferroptosis via the NOX4/ROS/GPX4 pathway

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally, with a complex and contentious pathogenesis. Caveolin-1 (CAV1) is an important regulator of liver function and can mitigate liver injury by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Evidence suggests that NOX4 is a source of ROS production, that oxidative stress and ferroptosis are closely related, and that both are involved in the onset and progression of NAFLD. However, whether CAV1 attenuates liver injury in NAFLD caused by high-fat diet via the NOX4/ROS/GPX4 pathway remains unclear. An in vivo fatty liver model was established by feeding mice with a high-fat diet for 16 weeks. In addition, an in vitro fatty liver model was established by incubating AML-12 cells with free fatty acids for 24 h using an in vitro culture method. In our study, it was observed that a high-fat diet induces mitochondrial damage and worsens oxidative stress in NAFLD. This diet also hinders GPX4 expression, leading to an escalation of ferroptosis and lipid accumulation. To counteract these effects, intraperitoneal administration of CSD peptide in mice attenuated the high-fat diet-induced liver mitochondrial damage and ferroptosis. Likewise, overexpression of CAV1 resulted in an increase in GPX4 expression and a reduction in levels of ROS-mediated iron metamorphosis, thus mitigating the progression of the disease. However, the effects of CAV1 on GPX4-mediated ferroptosis and lipid deposition could be reversed by CAV1 small interfering RNA (SiRNA). Finally, NOX4 inhibitor (GLX351322) treatment increased CAV1 siRNA-mediated GPX4 expression and decreased the level of ROS-mediated ferroptosis. These findings suggest a potential mechanism underlying the protective role of CAV1 against high-fat diet-induced hepatotoxicity in NAFLD, shedding new light on the interplay between CAV1, GPX4, and ferroptosis in liver pathology.

Protective Effect of N-Acetylcysteine on Rooster Semen Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation of avian semen is a useful reproductive technique in the poultry industry. However, during cooling, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels have destructive effects on both quality and function of thawed sperm. The aim of the current study is to investigate the antioxidant effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) during rooster semen cryopreservation. Semen samples were collected from ten Ross 308 broiler breeder roosters (32 weeks) and mixed. The mixed samples were divided into five equal parts and cryopreserved in Lake Buffer extender that contained different concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 mM) of NAC. The optimum concentration of NAC was determined based on quality parameters of mobility, viability, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, lipid peroxidation, and mitochondrial membrane potential after the freeze-thaw process. There was a higher percentage (p < 0.05) of total motility (TM) (60.9 ± 2.4%) and progressive motility (PM) (35.6 ± 1.9%) observed with the NAC-0.1 group compared to the other groups. Significantly higher percentages of viability (74.4 ± 2.3% and 71 ± 2.3%), membrane integrity (76.4 ± 1.5% and 74.7 ± 1.5%) and mitochondrial membrane potential (67.1 ± 1.6% and 66.3 ± 1.6%) were observed in the NAC-0.1 and NAC-1 groups compared to the other frozen groups (p < 0.05). The lowest percentage of lipid peroxidation and nonviable sperm was found in the NAC-0.1 and NAC-1 groups compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The average path velocity (VAP), straight line velocity (VSL), curvilinear velocity (VCL), and acrosome integrity, were not affected by different concentrations of NAC in the thawed sperm (p > 0.05). Both NAC-0.1 and NAC-1 appear to be beneficial for maintaining the quality of rooster sperm after thawing.

Dietary supplementation of probiotic Lactobacillus modulates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and intestinal barrier integrity in obesity-induced mice

The impact of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei NWAFU334 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum NWAFU0035 on the amelioration of liver function, oxidative stress reduction, and lipid metabolism modulation in mice subjected to an obesity-inducing high-fat diet (HFD) model was investigated. L. paracasei NWAFU334 and L. fermentum NWAFU0035 supplementations over 12 weeks have been shown to have numerous beneficial effects in mice with induced obesity. These effects comprise the restoration of liver function and the reduction of oxidative stress within the liver. Furthermore, the supplementation led to a decreased content of fat accumulation in the liver, mitigation of the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the liver and colon, and a decrease in the expression levels of tight-junction proteins, for example, claudin-1, PPARγ, occludin, and ZO-1. Additionally, a notable improvement in the colonic expression proteins, including IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, Muc-2, Muc-3, Zo-1, claudin-1, and occludin. These proposed strains considerably decreased proinflammatory cytokines and influenced the regulation of lipid metabolism in the liver. These findings indicate that the potential mechanisms, primarily the impact of L. paracasei NWAFU334 and L. fermentum NWAFU0035 on obesity-induced liver function in mice, involve two regulated pathways: downregulation of lipogenesis and upregulation of gene expression related to fatty acid oxidation and lipolysis. In other words, these probiotic bacterial strains might be beneficial in reducing fat production and increasing fat breakdown in the liver. They may serve as effective therapeutic supplements for alleviating abnormalities induced by an HFD.

4-Hydroxynonenal from Mitochondrial and Dietary Sources Causes Lysosomal Cell Death for Lifestyle-Related Diseases

Excessive consumption of vegetable oils such as soybean and canolla oils containing ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids is considered one of the most important epidemiological factors leading to the progression of lifestyle-related diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of vegetable-oil-induced organ damage is incompletely elucidated. Since proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the hypothalamus are related to the control of appetite and energy expenditure, their cell degeneration/death is crucial for the occurrence of obesity. In patients with metabolic syndrome, saturated fatty acids, especially palmitate, are used as an energy source. Since abundant reactive oxygen species are produced during β-oxidation of the palmitate in mitochondria, an increased amount of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) is endogenously generated from linoleic acids constituting cardiolipin of the inner membranes. Further, due to the daily intake of deep-fried foods and/or high-fat diets cooked using vegetable oils, exogenous 4-HNE being generated via lipid peroxidation during heating is incorporated into the blood. By binding with atheromatous and/or senile plaques, 4-HNE inactivates proteins via forming hybrid covalent chemical addition compounds and causes cellular dysfunction and tissue damage by the specific oxidation carbonylation. 4-HNE overstimulates G-protein-coupled receptors to induce abnormal Ca2+ mobilization and µ-calpain activation. This endogenous and exogenous 4-HNE synergically causes POMC neuronal degeneration/death and obesity. Then, the resultant metabolic disorder facilitates degeneration/death of hippocampal neurons, pancreatic β-cells, and hepatocytes. Hsp70.1 is a molecular chaperone which is crucial for both protein quality control and the stabilization of lysosomal limiting membranes. Focusing on the monkey hippocampus after ischemia, previously we formulated the 'calpain-cathepsin hypothesis', i.e., that calpain-mediated cleavage of carbonylated Hsp70.1 is a trigger of programmed neuronal death. This review aims to report that in diverse organs, lysosomal cell degeneration/death occurs via the calpain-cathepsin cascade after the consecutive injections of synthetic 4-HNE in monkeys. Presumably, 4-HNE is a root substance of lysosomal cell death for lifestyle-related diseases.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Irisin Injection in Mimicking the Molecular Responses Induced by Endurance Exercise in Mouse Liver Tissue

Background

Physical activity has been found to improve liver health by reducing oxidative stress (OS), possibly through the protein irisin. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) help regulate the body's response to stress and maintain cellular health. This study aimed to investigate the expression of the HSP70 gene and protein, miR-223a, and serum irisin levels in the liver after 8 weeks of endurance exercise or irisin injection.

Methods

Twenty-one mice were randomly assigned to a control group, an endurance training group, and an irisin injection group. The expression of the HSP70 gene and miR-223a was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), while HSP70 protein levels were measured using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot analysis. The concentration of irisin in the mouse serum was evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

Results

The endurance training and irisin injection groups exhibited a significant increase in the HSP70 gene (405.30% and 816.03%, respectively) and protein expression (173.89% in IHC, 36.76% in Western blot for endurance training; 206.73% in IHC, 59.80% in Western blot for irisin injection) as well as elevated serum irisin levels (49.75% for endurance training and 60.65% for irisin injection) compared with the control group. In contrast, miR-223a expression decreased in both the endurance training (21.37%) and irisin injection (52.80%) groups (P < 0.05 in all cases). Mice in the irisin injection group demonstrated higher levels of the HSP70 gene (81.28%) and protein expression (11.99% in IHC and 16.84% in Western blot) and lower miR-223a levels (39.97%) than those in the endurance training group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The study concludes that irisin administration can replicate the effects of long-term endurance exercise on HSP70 and miR-223a and may have a more significant impact on their production than exercise training alone.