Sesamol attenuates oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury

Neuroprotective Effect of Ganoderic Acid against Focal Ischemic Stroke Induced by Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in the Rats via Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Stroke is recognized as a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, posing a significant challenge, particularly in developing countries. The current study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Ganoderic acid (GA) against focal ischemic stroke in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Swiss Wistar rats were used for the current study. The rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to simulate transient focal ischemia, followed by reperfusion. Various neurological parameters, including infarct size, neurological deficit score, brain water content, Evans blue leakage, nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), antioxidant levels, inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis markers, inflammatory parameters, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) levels, were estimated. Additionally, mRNA expressions were evaluated in the brain tissue.

RESULTS

Dose dependently treatment of GA significantly (P < 0.001) suppressed the infarct size, neurological deflects score, brain water, evans blue leakage, NO, iNOS, LDH, C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR-4), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), S100 calcium-binding protein B (S-100β) and K+-Cl- cotransporter 1 (KCC1) positive cells. GA altered the level of oxidative stress parameters like Total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OhdG), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), malonaldehyde (MDA); cytokines viz., tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-1β, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10; inflammatory parameters such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin (PGE2), Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB); apoptosis parameters like B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 protein (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated protein x (Bax), Caspase-3; matrix metallopeptidase (MMP) parameters like MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9, respectively. GA remarkably suppressed the mRNA expression of TRL-4, Syndecan-1, CSF, Aquaporin-1, OCT3, and RFX1.

CONCLUSION

Ganoderic acid exhibited the protection against the cerebral ischemia reperfusion via multiple mechanism.

Ferulic Acid Methyl Ester Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats by Modulating PI3K/HIF-1α/VEGF Signaling Pathway

Background

Cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) could worsen the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in brain tissue. According to previous studies, ferulic acid methyl ester (FAME), as the extract with the strongest comprehensive activity in the traditional Chinese medicine Huang Hua oil dot herb, has significant anti-oxidative stress and neuroprotective functions, and can effectively alleviate CIRI, but its mechanism of action is still unclear.

Methods

Firstly, the pharmacological effects of FAME were investigated by in vitro oxidative stress and inflammatory experiments. Secondly, evaluate the therapeutic effects of FAME in the treatment of CIRI by brain histopathological staining and cerebral infarct area by replicating the in vivo MACO model. Thirdly, RNA-Seq and network pharmacology were utilized to predict the possible targets and mechanisms of FAME for CIRI at the molecular level. Finally, the expression of key target proteins, as well as the key regulatory relationships were verified by molecular docking visualization, Western Blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results

The results of in vitro experiments concluded that FAME could significantly reduce the content of TNF-α, IL-1β and ROS, inhibiting COX-2 and iNOS protein expression in cells(p<0.01). FAME was demonstrated to have anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory effects. The results of in vivo experiments showed that after the administration of FAME, the area of cerebral infarction in rats with CIRI was reduced, the content of Bcl-2 and VEGF was increased(p<0.05). Network pharmacology and RNA-Seq showed that the alleviation of CIRI by FAME may be through PI3K-AKT and HIF-1 signaling pathway. Enhanced expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, p-PI3K, p-AKT proteins in the brain tissues of rats in the FAME group was verified by molecular docking and Western Blotting.

Conclusion

FAME possesses significant anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress activities and alleviates CIRI through the PI3K/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway.

Effect of berberine on the hippocampal structure, biochemical factors, memory, and blood-brain barrier in rat model of transient global cerebral ischemia

Global cerebral ischemia (GCI) results in damage to the neurons and leads to cognitive impairments. Berberine (BBR) is known for its neuroprotective qualities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of BBR on memory, Blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, biochemical factors, and neuronal structure. Sixty-three adult male Wistar rats were divided randomly into Sham (21), GCI (21), and GCI + BBR (21) groups. The GCI + BBR group received 50 mg/kg of BBR for 7 days before and 6 h after 20 min of GCI induction. After 24 h, assessments included hippocampal neuronal structure, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels, memory performance, and BBB permeability. The GCI + BBR group reduced volume loss in the CA1 and its sublayers (oriens, pyramidal, and radiatum) compared to the GCI group (p < 0.0001, p < 0.001, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Additionally, the GCI + BBR group showed higher pyramidal neuron density (p < 0.0001) and number (p < 0.0001) compared to the GCI group. BBR also decreased MDA levels (p < 0.0001) and increased CAT activity (p < 0.0001) in the GCI + BBR group compared to the GCI group, with GPX and SOD activity approaching Sham levels (p < 0.0001, both). BBR demonstrated significant improvements in short and long-term memory compared to the GCI group (p < 0.01, p < 0.0001, respectively). Furthermore, BBB permeability in the GCI + BBR group was significantly reduced compared to the GCI group (p < 0.0001). These findings demonstrated BBR's potential to protect the neurons in the CA1 and BBB structures, enhance antioxidant activity, and alleviate GCI-induced memory impairments.

20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by mitigating mitochondrial oxidative stress via the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress has become an important strategy to prevent neuronal death in ischemic stroke. Previous studies have shown that 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 can significantly improve behavioral abnormalities, reduce infarct size, and decrease the number of apoptotic neurons in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury rats. However, it remains unclear whether 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 can inhibit mitochondrial oxidative stress in ischemic stroke and the potential molecular mechanism. In this study, we found that 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 notably inhibited mitochondrial oxidative stress in middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) rats and maintained the stability of mitochondrial structure and function. Treatment with 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 also decreased the levels of mitochondrial fission proteins (Drp1 and Fis1) and increased the levels of fusion proteins (Opa1, Mfn1, and Mfn2) in MCAO/R rats. Furthermore, we found that 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 promoted nuclear aggregation of nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) but did not affect Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1), resulting in the downstream expression of antioxidants. In in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion stroke models, the results of PC12 cells treated with 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 were consistent with animal experiments. After transfection with Nrf2 short interfering RNA (siRNA), the protective effect of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 on PC12 cells was reversed. In conclusion, the inhibition of mitochondrial oxidative stress plays a vital position in the anti-cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3, and its neuroprotective mechanism is related to the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 signaling pathway.

Protective Effects of Sesamol on Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Via Regulation of Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Pathway

BACKGROUND

Sesamol is a natural antioxidant known for its potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of sesamol in the development of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in mice.

METHODS

C57BL/6J wild-type mice were divided into 3 groups: IR group, treated with normal saline after undergoing the IRI procedure; Sesamol + IR group, treated with 30 mg/kg/d of sesamol after the IRI procedure; and Sham group, treated with normal saline but not subjected to the IRI process. Renal IRI was induced by performing a right kidney nephrectomy and subjecting the left kidney to 30-minute ischemia, followed by 24-hour reperfusion. Kidney tissues and serum were collected 24 hours post-IRI to assess the impact of sesamol on renal function after IRI. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were assessed, and renal cell apoptosis was detected through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling staining. The levels of interleukin 1β and interleukin 18 in kidney tissues, as well as indicators of oxidative stress, were also measured. Furthermore, Nrf2-deficient mice were used to examine the protective function of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO1) signaling pathways induced by sesamol, as determined by western blot assay.

RESULTS

Sesamol demonstrated significant improvement in renal function, along with reductions in renal tubular injury, cell necrosis, and apoptosis in mice. It also effectively lowered key inflammatory mediator levels. Sesamol exhibited antioxidant properties by reducing malondialdehyde levels and enhancing superoxide dismutase activities 24 hours after IRI. Western blot assay revealed increased Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 protein levels with sesamol treatment. Notably, Nrf2-deficient mice did not exhibit the beneficial effects of sesamol.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that sesamol effectively alleviates renal IRI by enhancing antioxidant defenses and reducing inflammation potentially through the Nrf2/HO-1 and NQO1 signaling pathways.

Sesamol defends neuronal damage following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion: a crosstalk of autophagy and Notch1/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling

OBJECTIVE

Sesamol (SES) is a phenolic compound found in sesame seed oil. Several studies have revealed its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, its complete underlying mechanistic perspective about cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) lesions has not yet been disclosed. Consequently, we aimed to scrutinize its neuroprotective mechanism against cerebral injury during a global cerebral I/R in a rat model, considering its impact on autophagy and Notch1/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling regulation.

METHODS

To affirm our purpose, adult Wistar rats were allotted into five groups: sham and the other four groups in which transient global cerebral ischemia was induced by bilateral common ligation (2VO) for 1 h, then reperfusion for either 24 h or 5 days: I/R (1/24), I/R (1/5), SES + I/R (1/24), and SES + I/R (1/5). In treated groups, SES (100 mg/kg, p.o., for 21 days) was administered before cerebral I/R induction. The assessment of histopathological changes in brain tissues, immunohistochemistry, biochemical assays, ELISA, and qRT-PCR were utilized to investigate our hypothesis.

RESULTS

Advantageously, SES halted the structural neuronal damage with lessened demyelination induced by cerebral I/R injury. Restoring oxidant/antioxidant balance was evident by boosting the total antioxidant capacity and waning lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, SES reduced inflammatory and apoptosis markers. Additionally, SES recovered GFAP, Cx43, and autophagy signaling, which in turn switched off the Notch-1/NLRP3 inflammasome trajectory.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results revealed the neuroprotective effect of SES against cerebral I/R injury through alleviating injurious events and boosting autophagy, consequently abolishing Notch1/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling.

Sesamol: A Phenolic Compound of Health Benefits and Therapeutic Promise in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Sesamol, one of the key bioactive ingredients of sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L.), is responsible for many of its possible nutritional benefits. Both the Chinese and Indian medical systems have recognized the therapeutic potential of sesame seeds. It has been shown to have significant therapeutic potential against oxidative stress, inflammatory diseases, metabolic syndrome, neurodegeneration, and mental disorders. Sesamol is a benign molecule that inhibits the expression of inflammatory indicators like numerous enzymes responsible for inducing inflammation, protein kinases, cytokines, and redox status. This review summarises the potential beneficial effects of sesamol against neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD). Recently, sesamol has been shown to reduce amyloid peptide accumulation and attenuate cognitive deficits in AD models. Sesamol has also been demonstrated to reduce the severity of PD and HD in animal models by decreasing oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. The mechanism of sesamol's pharmacological activities against neurodegenerative diseases will also be discussed in this review.

Sesamol: A lignan in sesame seeds with potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties

Inflammation is associated with the development and progression of a plethora of diseases including joint, metabolic, neurological, hepatic, and renal disorders. Sesamol, derived from the seeds of Sesamum indicum L., has received considerable attention due to its well-documented multipotent phytotherapeutic effects, including its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, to date, no comprehensive review has been established to highlight or summarize the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of sesamol. Herein, we aim to address this gap in the literature by presenting a thorough review encapsulating evidence surrounding the range of inflammatory mediators and cytokines shown to be targeted by sesamol in modulating its anti-inflammatory actions against a range of inflammatory disorders. Additionally, evidence highlighting the role that sesamol has in modulating components of adaptive immunity including cellular immune responses and Th1/Th2 balance is underscored. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms and the signaling pathways underlying such effects are also highlighted. Findings indicate that this seemingly potent lignan mediates its anti-inflammatory actions, at least in part, via suppression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and TNFα, and downregulation of a multitude of signaling pathways including NF-κB and MAPK. In conclusion, we anticipate that sesamol may be employed in future therapeutic regimens to aid in more effective drug development to alleviate immune-related and inflammatory conditions.

Harnessing role of sesamol and its nanoformulations against neurodegenerative diseases

Sesamol is a lignan of sesame seeds and a natural phenolic molecule that has emerged as a useful medical agent. Sesamol is a non-toxic phytoconstituent, which exerts certain valuable effects in the management of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), etc. Sesamol is known to depict its neuroprotective role by various mechanisms, such as metabolic regulators, action on oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, etc. However, its poor oral bioavailability, rapid excretion (as conjugates), and susceptibility to gastric irritation/toxicity (particularly in rats' forestomach) may restrict its effectiveness. To overcome the associated limitations, novel drug delivery system-based formulations of sesamol are emerging and being researched extensively. These can conjugate with sesamol and enhance the bioavailability and solubility of free sesamol, along with delivery at the target site. In this review, we have summarized various research works highlighting the role of sesamol on various NDs, including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Moreover, the formulation strategies and neuroprotective role of sesamol-based nano-formulations have also been discussed.

Sesamol Mitigates Chronic Iron Overload-Induced Cognitive Impairment and Systemic Inflammation via IL-6 and DMT1 Regulation

SCOPE

Excessive iron contributes to oxidative damage and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. Sesamol, a compound in sesame oil that exhibits both anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, is examined in this study for its ability to alleviate cognitive impairments in iron overload mice model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An iron overload model is established by intraperitoneally injecting dextran iron (250 mg kg-1 body weight) twice a week for 6 weeks, while sesamol (100 mg kg-1 body weight) is administered daily for the same length of time. The results demonstrate that sesamol protects spatial working memory and learning ability in iron overload mice, and inhibits neuronal loss and brain atrophy induced by iron overload. Moreover, sesamol significantly decreases interleukin-6 and malondialdehyde, and increases glutathione peroxidase 4 in the brains of iron overload mice. Additionally, sesamol maintains iron homeostasis in the brain by regulating the expressions of transferrin receptors, divalent metal transporter 1, and hepcidin, and reducing iron accumulation. Furthermore, sesamol suppresses disturbed systemic iron homeostasis and inflammation, particularly liver interleukin-6 expression.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that sesamol may be effective in mitigating neuroinflammatory responses and cognitive impairments induced by iron overload, potentially through its involvement in mediating the liver-brain axis.

The protective effects of sesamol and/or the probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, against aluminum chloride-induced neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats: Modulation of Wnt/β-catenin/GSK-3β, JAK-2/STAT-3, PPAR-γ, inflammatory, and apoptotic pathways

Introduction: Aluminium (Al) is accumulated in the brain causing neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis, autism and epilepsy. Hence, attenuation of Al-induced neurotoxicity has become a "hot topic" in looking for an intervention that slow down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: Our study aims to introduce a new strategy for hampering aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced neurotoxicity using a combination of sesamol with the probiotic bacteria; Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) and also to test their possible ameliorative effects on AlCl3-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10/group) which are control, AlCl3, AlCl3 + Sesamol, AlCl3 + L. rhamnosus and AlCl3 + Sesamol + L. rhamnosus. We surveilled the behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological alterations centrally in the brain and peripherally in liver. Results: This work revealed that the combined therapy of sesamol and L. rhamnosus produced marked reduction in brain amyloid-β, p-tau, GSK-3β, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers, along with marked elevation in brain free β-catenin and Wnt3a, compared to AlCl3-intoxicated rats. Also, the combined therapy exerted pronounced reduction in hepatic expressions of JAK-2/STAT-3, inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6, NF-κB), fibrotic (MMP-2, TIMP-1, α-SMA) and apoptotic markers, (caspase-3), together with marked elevation in hepatic PPAR-γ expression, compared to AlCl3 -intoxicated rats. Behavioral and histopathological assessments substantiated the efficiency of this combined regimen in halting the effect of neurotoxicity. Discussion: Probiotics can be used as an add-on therapy with sesamol ameliorate AlCl3 -mediated neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.

Anti-cerebral ischemic neuronal injury mechanism of Zhenlong Xingnao capsules: role of the Notch/NF-κB signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) effect and mechanism of Zhenlong Xingnao capsules based on Notch/NF-κB signaling pathway.

METHODS

The rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established using the Longa suture occlusion method, and 70 rats were divided into sham-operated, model, low dose Zhenlong Xingnao capsule group (125 mg/kg Zhenlong Xingnao capsule solution) and high dose Zhenlong Xingnao capsule group (250 mg/kg Zhenlong Xingnao capsule solution), low dose Zhenlong Xingnao capsule + neurogenic site notch homologous protein 1 (Notch1) antibody (Jagged1 group, 125 mg/kg capsule solution + 25 mg/kg Jagged1 solution), high dose Zhenlong Xingnao capsule + Jagged1 group (250 mg/kg capsule solution + 25 mg/kg Jagged1 solution), and Jagged1 group (25 mg/kg Jagged1 solution). The learning and memory abilities (behavioral score, spontaneous movement, and rotarod test), neurological function score, inflammatory factors and oxidative stress levels [interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD)] in hippocampal tissue, and Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3 mRNA levels were measured by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Notch1/NF-κB signaling pathway-related protein expression was assessed by Western blot.

RESULTS

The low and high dose interventions of Zhenlong Xingnao capsules significantly improved the learning and memory abilities of MCAO rats, reduced the neurological impairment scores, improved the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, GSH-Px, SOD, and inhibited the expression levels of Notch1, p-NF-κB p65, and Hes-1 proteins. However, the protective effect of Zhenlong Xingnao capsules on neurons in rat brain tissue could be reduced after treatment with Jagged1.

CONCLUSIONS

Zhenlong Xingnao capsules can promote neuronal repair during ischemia-reperfusion, and its mechanism may be related to inhibiting the activation of Notch/NF-κB signaling pathway and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress response.

Rat BM-MSCs secretome alone and in combination with stiripentol and ISRIB, ameliorated microglial activation and apoptosis in experimental stroke

BACKGROUND

Stroke, a devastating neurological emergency, is the leading cause of worldwide mortality and functional disability. Combining novel neuroprotective drugs offers a way to improve the stroke intervention outcomes. In the present era, the combination therapy has been proposed as a plausible strategy to target multiple mechanisms and enhance the treatment efficacy to rescue stroke induced behavioral abnormalities and neuropathological damage. In the current study, we have investigated the neuroprotective effect of stiripentol (STP) and trans integrated stress response inhibitor (ISRIB) alone and in combination with rat bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) secretome in an experimental model of stroke.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Stroke was induced in male Wistar rats (n=92) by temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Three investigational agents were selected including STP (350mg/kg; i.p.), trans ISRIB (2.5mg/kg; i.p.) and rat BM-MSCs secretome (100µg/kg; i.v). Treatment was administered at 3 hrs post MCAO, in four doses with a 12 hrs interval. Post MCAO, neurological deficits, brain infarct, brain edema, BBB permeability, motor functional and memory deficits were assessed. Molecular parameters: oxidative stress, pro inflammatory cytokines, synaptic protein markers, apoptotic protein markers and histopathological damage were assessed.

RESULTS

STP and trans ISRIB, alone and in combination with rat BM-MSCs secretome, significantly improved neurological, motor function and memory deficits along with significant reduction in pyknotic neurons in the brain of post MCAO rats. These results were correlating with significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, microglial activation and apoptotic markers in the brain of drug treated post MCAO rats.

CONCLUSION

STP and trans ISRIB, alone and in combination with rat BM-MSCs secretome, might be considered as potential neuroprotective agents in the acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management.

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

Data will be made available on reasonable request.

Anti-apoptosis effect of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cerebral ischemia, one of the leading causes of neurological dysfunction of brain cells, muscle dysfunction, and death, brings great harm and challenges to individual health, families, and society. Blood flow disruption causes decreased glucose and oxygen, insufficient to maintain normal brain tissue metabolism, resulting in intracellular calcium overload, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity of excitatory amino acids, and inflammation, ultimately leading to neuronal cell necrosis, apoptosis, or neurological abnormalities. This paper summarizes the specific mechanism of cell injury that apoptosis triggered by reperfusion after cerebral ischemia, the related proteins involved in apoptosis, and the experimental progress of herbal medicine treatment through searching, analyzing, and summarizing the PubMed and Web Of Science databases, which includes active ingredients of herbal medicine, prescriptions, Chinese patent medicines, and herbal extracts, providing a new target or new strategy for drug treatment, and providing a reference for future experimental directions and using them to develop suitable small molecule drugs for clinical application. With the research of anti-apoptosis as the core, it is important to find highly effective, low toxicity, safe and cheap compounds from natural plants and animals with abundant resources to prevent and treat Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury (CIR) and solve human suffering. In addition, understanding and summarizing the apoptotic mechanism of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, the microscopic mechanism of CIR treatment, and the cellular pathways involved will help to develop new drugs.

Neuroprotective effects of sesamol against LPS-induced spatial learning and memory deficits are mediated via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in the rat brain

Objective

Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is known to produce neuroinflammatory responses and memory impairment. The current study aimed to investigate the protective influence of sesamol against LPS-mediated neuroinflammation and memory impairment.

Materials and Methods

Sesamol (10 and 50 mg/kg) was injected to Wistar rats for two weeks. Then, animals received LPS injection (1 mg/kg) for five days, while treatment with sesamol was performed 30 min before LPS injection. Spatial learning and memory were assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM), two hours after LPS injection on days 15-19. Biochemical assessments were performed after the end of behavioral experiments.

Results

LPS-administered rats showed spatial learning and memory deficits, since they spent more time in the MWM to find the hidden platform and less time in the target quadrant. Besides these behavioral changes, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipid peroxidation levels were increased, while total thiol level was decreased in the hippocampus and/or cerebral cortex. In addition, sesamol treatment (50 mg/kg) for three weeks decreased the escape latency and increased the time on probe trial. Sesamol also reduced lipid peroxidation and TNF-α level, while enhanced total thiol level in the brain of LPS-exposed rats.

Conclusion

Supplementation of sesamol attenuated learning and memory impairments in LPS-treated rats via antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in the rat brain.

Salidroside attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by regulating TSC2-induced autophagy

Salidroside (SAL), an antioxidant derived from Rhodiola rosea, exerts neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury; however, the mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The present study established a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) and a cellular model of oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) to explore the roles and mechanisms of SAL in cerebral I/R injury. The rat model of MCAO/R was established and rats were treated with different doses of SAL. The Zea-Longa scoring system and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining showed that SAL reduced neurological deficit scores and cerebral infarct volumes in MCAO/R rats. The results of Morris water maze (MWM) test showed that SAL reduced memory impairment in MCAO/R rats. In addition, SAL significantly reduced oxidative stress and suppressed inflammatory response. Next, the OGD/R model was established with PC12 cells and treated with SAL. The results of flow cytometry and 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays showed that SAL reduced apoptosis, enhanced cell viability and protected neuronal cells from damage by decreasing lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. SAL increased the expression of TSC complex subunit 2 (TSC2), and activated the 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibited the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. It was verified that SAL alleviated cerebral I/R injury by regulating the AMPK/TSC2/mTOR pathway to induce autophagy. In conclusion, SAL reduces the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in a concentration-dependent manner, and protects against cerebral I/R injury by modulating TSC2-induced autophagy. These findings suggest SAL may prove to be a potential therapeutic agent for ischemic stroke.

Emerging Treatment Strategies for Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CI/RI) injury is a common feature of ischemic stroke which occurs when the blood supply is restored after a period of ischemia in the brain. Reduced blood-flow to the brain during CI/RI compromises neuronal cell health as a result of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, cytokine production, inflammation and tissue damage. Reperfusion therapy during CI/RI can restore the blood flow to ischemic regions of brain which are not yet infarcted. The long-term goal of CI/RI therapy is to reduce stroke-related neuronal cell death, disability and mortality. A range of drug and interventional therapies have emerged that can alleviate CI/RI mediated oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in the brain. Herein, we review recent studies on CI/RI interventions for which a mechanism of action has been described and the potential of these therapeutic modalities for future use in the clinic.

Role of Nrf2 in aging, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases

Nuclear Factor-Erythroid Factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important transcription factor that regulates the expression of large number of genes in healthy and disease states. Nrf2 is made up of 605 amino acids and contains 7 conserved regions known as Nrf2-ECH homology domains. Nrf2 regulates the expression of several key components of oxidative stress, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, autophagy and mitochondrial function in all organs of the human body, in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Mounting evidence also suggests that altered expression of Nrf2 is largely involved in aging, neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's diseases, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Stroke, Multiple sclerosis and others. The purpose of this article is to detail the essential role of Nrf2 in oxidative stress, antioxidative defense, detoxification, inflammatory responses, transcription factors, proteasomal and autophagic/mitophagic degradation, and metabolism in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also highlights the Nrf2 structural and functional activities in healthy and disease states, and also discusses the current status of Nrf2 research and therapeutic strategies to treat aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

Sesamol protects against aluminum oxide nanoparticles-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats via modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA damage

Aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al₂ O₃ -NPs) are exceedingly used in various industrial and commercial applications, providing growing concerns about their potential adverse impacts on animals and human health. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the potential protective effect of sesamol (SML) against the induced hepatorenal toxicity of Al₂ O₃ -NPs. Forty male rats were randomly assigned into four groups and treated orally for 28 consecutive days. Control group received distilled water. SML group received SML (100 mg/kg bw). Al₂ O₃ -NPs group received Al₂ O₃ -NPs (100 mg/kg bw). SML + Al₂ O₃ -NPs group received SML 2 h prior to Al₂ O₃ -NPs. The results revealed that Al₂ O₃ -NPs significantly increased serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities and serum urea and creatinine levels. Moreover, Al₂ O₃ -NPs induced a significant elevation in malondialdehyde level with significant reduction in reduced glutathione content and catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, together with a marked increase of 8-hydroxy-2-desoxyguanosine level in the hepatic and renal tissues. Also, up-regulations of glutathione-S-transferase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and caspase-3 mRNA gene expressions were recorded in the liver and kidneys. Additionally, Al₂ O₃ -NPs induced multifocal areas of necrosis in hepatic parenchyma with glomerular mesangial cell proliferation and glomerular sclerosis in kidney tissues. Conversely, concomitant treatment with sesamol mitigated Al₂ O₃ -induced hepatorenal toxicity evidenced by improvement of liver and kidney functions that correlated with regulation of oxidant/antioxidant status, inflammatory, and apoptotic biomarkers and reduction of DNA and tissues damages. In conclusion, sesamol could exert a promising protective role against hepatorenal toxicity of Al₂ O₃ -NPs, possibly via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties.

Polyphenols for the Treatment of Ischemic Stroke: New Applications and Insights

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Currently, the main therapeutic strategy involves the use of intravenous thrombolysis to restore cerebral blood flow to prevent the transition of the penumbra to the infarct core. However, due to various limitations and complications, including the narrow time window in which this approach is effective, less than 10% of patients benefit from such therapy. Thus, there is an urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies, with neuroprotection against the ischemic cascade response after IS being one of the most promising options. In the past few decades, polyphenolic compounds have shown great potential in animal models of IS because of their high biocompatibility and ability to target multiple ischemic cascade signaling pathways, although low bioavailability is an issue that limits the applications of several polyphenols. Here, we review the pathophysiological changes following cerebral ischemia and summarize the research progress regarding the applications of polyphenolic compounds in the treatment of IS over the past 5 years. Furthermore, we discuss several potential strategies for improving the bioavailability of polyphenolic compounds as well as some essential issues that remain to be addressed for the translation of the related therapies to the clinic.

Sesamol protects against liver fibrosis induced in rats by modulating lysophosphatidic acid receptor expression and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway

The present study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of sesamol (SML), a nutritional phenolic compound obtained from sesame seeds, in liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) in rats and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Thirty-two male Sprague–Dawley rats were equally divided into four groups: control, TAA, TAA + SML 50 mg/kg, and TAA + SML 100 mg/kg groups. Liver functions and hepatic contents of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured colorimetrically. Gene expressions of lysophosphatidic acid receptor (LPAR)-1 and -3, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad)-3 and -7, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and cytokeratin 19 (CK19) were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Moreover, phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad3) was quantified by ELISA. Additionally, TGF-β1, α-SMA, CK19, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein concentrations were semi-quantitatively analyzed by immunostaining of liver sections. SML treatment markedly improved liver index and liver functions. Moreover, SML protected against liver fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner as indicated by down-regulation of LPAR1, LPAR3, CTGF, TGF-β1/Smad3, and α-SMA expressions and a decrease in pSmad3 level, as well as an up-regulation of Smad7 expression. In addition, SML suppressed ductular reaction hinted by the decrease in CK19 expression. These results reveal the anti-fibrotic effect of SML against liver fibrosis that might be attributed to down-regulation of LPAR1/3 expressions, inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway, and ductular reaction.

Sesamol protects the function and structure of rat ovaries against side effects of cyclophosphamide by decreasing oxidative stress and apoptosis

AIM

Chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide can damage ovaries and cause infertility in girls and women. Sesamol is a phenolic antioxidant that can protect various organs from damage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of sesamol on protecting the function and structure of rat ovaries against the side effects of a chemotherapy model with cyclophosphamide.

METHODS

Twenty-four adult female Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: (1) normal group, without any treatment, (2) control group, immediately after receiving cyclophosphamide, 0.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the solvent of sesamol was intraperitoneally injected for 14 consecutive days, (3) sesamol group, immediately after receiving cyclophosphamide, 50 mg/kg sesamol was intraperitoneally injected for 14 consecutive days. Four weeks after the last injection, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the ovary, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in the serum, number of ovarian follicles in different stages, and expression of proteins growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9), Bcl-2, and Bax in the ovary were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results of SOD activity and MDA levels in the ovary, AMH levels in the serum, number of ovarian follicles in different stages, and expression of proteins GDF9, Bcl-2, and Bax in the ovary were significantly more favorable in the sesamol group than the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that sesamol may protect function and structure in the rat ovaries against side effects of the chemotherapy model with cyclophosphamide by decreasing oxidative stress and apoptosis in the ovary.

Consumption of sesame seeds and sesame products has favorable effects on blood glucose levels but not on insulin resistance: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials

Sesame, with an oily seed containing oil, lignans, and proteins, is a popular plant that has demonstrated health benefits such as antioxidative, antiobesity, and antiinflammatory effects. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to summarize the effect of sesame seeds and their consumption compared to a control group on blood glucose and insulin resistance in human adults. PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and EMBASE were searched to identify eligible controlled clinical trials up to February 2021. Finally, eight clinical trials were included in this study. Sesame products used in these trials were sesame oil, sesamin, and tahini, and the duration of the intervention varied from 45 days to 9 weeks. Our results showed the significant positive effects of sesame and its products on fasting blood glucose FBG (weighted mean difference, WMD: -21.31 mg/dl, 95% CI: -41.23, -1.39, p = .036) and HbA1c (WMD: -0.75, 95% CI: -1.16, -0.34, p < .001) levels but results about fasting serum insulin (WMD: 5.51 μU/ml, 95% CI: -2.31, 13.33, p = .167) and HOMA-IR (WMD: -0.07, 95% CI: -0.33, 0.20, p = .617) were not meaningful. Sesame may be considered a beneficial agent for human glucose metabolism and can be a part of glucose-lowering diets.

Effect of sesamol on damaged peripheral nerves: Evaluation of functional, histological, molecular, and oxidative stress parameters

Objective

Peripheral nerve injury is a clinical problem that may cause sensory and motor inabilities. Sesamol is an antioxidant that can help in repairing damaged central nervous system (CNS) and other organs. The present study aimed to investigate whether the antioxidant effects of sesamol could improve the function, structure, and myelination in rats' damaged peripheral nervous system (PNS).

Materials and Methods

In this study, 28 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. In the sham group, the sciatic nerve was exposed and restored to its place without inducing crush injury. The control received DMSO (solvent) and the two experimental groups received 50 or 100 mg/kg sesamol intraperitoneally for 28 days after sciatic nerve crush injury, respectively. Next, sciatic function index (SFI), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) and myelin protein zero (MPZ) proteins in the sciatic nerve, and histological indices of the sciatic nerve and gastrocnemius muscle were evaluated.

Results

The results showed that sesamol reduced oxidative stress parameters, increased expression of NGF and MPZ proteins, and improved function and regeneration of the damaged sciatic nerve. Furthermore, a significant regeneration was observed in the gastrocnemius muscle after treatment with sesamol. Although administration of both doses of sesamol was useful, the 100 mg/kg dose was more effective than the 50 mg/kg one.

Conclusion

The results suggest that sesamol may be effective in improving damaged peripheral nerves in rats by reducing oxidative stress and increasing the expression of NGF and MPZ proteins.

Ephedrine alleviates middle cerebral artery occlusion-induced neurological deficits and hippocampal neuronal damage in rats by activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Inflammation and oxidative stress are crucial in ischemic stroke. Ephedrine (EPH) has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects. The present study analyzes whether EPH possessed neuroprotective effects and explored the underlying mechanisms of EPH based on an experimental model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). We found that intraperitoneal injection with EPH attenuated the neurological deficit, cerebral infarction, and cerebral edema induced by MCAO in rats. Besides, EPH treatment alleviated MCAO-induced brain tissue damage and morphological abnormality, as well as neuronal loss. Moreover, EPH treatment upregulated GPx and CAT activity and downregulated MDA and NO content. EPH also evidently decreased the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α but increased IL-4 and IL-10 levels. Of note, EPH treatment promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT proteins in MCAO rats. Furthermore, administration of PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor LY294002 abolished the beneficial effects of EPH. These results confirmed that EPH alleviated brain injury induced by MCAO via activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Neuroprotective effect of sesamol against aluminum nanoparticle-induced toxicity in rats

Alumina nanoparticles (ALNPs) are widely used causing neurobehavioral impairment in intoxicated animals and humans. Sesamol (SML) emerged as a natural phytochemical with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, no study has directly tested the potential of SML to protect against AlNP-induced detrimental effects on the brain. AlNPs (100 mg/kg) were orally administered to rats by gavage with or without oral sesamol (100 mg/kg) for 28 days. In AlNP-intoxicated group, the brain AChE activity was elevated. The concentrations of MDA and 8-OHdG were increased suggesting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. GSH depletion with inhibited activities of CAT and SOD were demonstrated. Serum levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were elevated. The expressions of GST, TNF-α, and caspase-3 genes in the brain were upregulated. Histopathologically, AlNPs induced hemorrhages, edema, neuronal necrosis, and/or apoptosis in medulla oblongata. The cerebellum showed loss of Purkinje cells, and the cerebrum showed perivascular edema, neuronal degeneration, necrosis, and neuronal apoptosis. However, concomitant administration of SML with AlNPs significantly ameliorated the toxic effects on the brain, reflecting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of SML. Considering these results, sesamol could be a promising phytochemical with neuroprotective activity against AlNP-induced neurotoxicity.

Icariin enhance mild hypothermia-induced neuroprotection via inhibiting the activation of NF-κB in experimental ischemic stroke

Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) is a promising neuroprotective agent for treating stroke. However, its clinical application was limited by the impractical duration. Icariin (ICA) were reported to have therapeutic effect on cerebral ischemia. In this research, our aim was to investigate whether the combination of TH and ICA had better neuroprotective effects on ischemic stroke. An ischemia-reperfusion rat model was established and treated with mild hypothermia, ICA or JSH-23 (inhibitor of NF-κB). Thermistor probe, 2'3'5'-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC), 5/12-score system, and ELISA were used to detect temperature (rectum, cortex, striatum), infarct volume, neurological deficit, and cerebral cell death of these rats. The expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Interleukin- 6 (IL-6), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor (Nrf2), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARα), PPARγ, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), p-JAK2, signal transducers and activators of transduction-3 (STAT3), and p-STAT3 were detected by Western blot or q-PCR. Mild hypothermia, ICA, and JSH-23 reduced the cerebral infarct volume, neurological deficit, cerebral cell death of rats, downregulated the expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, C-Caspase 3 and Bax, and the activation of PPARs/Nrf2/NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3 pathways, but elevated the expression of Bcl-2. ICA promoted the effect of mild hypothermia on infarct volume, neurological deficit, and cerebral cell death. Moreover, ICA also enhanced the regulatory effect of mild hypothermia on apoptosis/inflammation factors expressions and activation of PPARs/Nrf2/NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3 pathways. ICA could promote mild hypothermia-induced neuroprotection by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB through the PPARs/Nrf2/NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathways in experimental stroke.

Influence of miR-1 on Nerve Cell Apoptosis in Rats with Cerebral Stroke via Regulating ERK Signaling Pathway

To explore the effect of miR-1 on neuronal apoptosis in rats with stroke through the ERK signaling pathway. Methods. Forty male rats (180-220 g) were selected and randomly divided into the sham, model, miR-1 inhibitor, and miR-1 mimic groups (10 rats per group) by average body weight. Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) models were established using a modified middle cerebral artery wire thrombosis (MCAO) method in rats in the model group, miR-1 inhibitor group, and miR-1 mimic group. After the successful model establishment, the miR-1inhibitor group and miR-1 mimic group were intravenously injected with miR-1 inhibitor and miR-1 mimic, respectively, once a day for 3 days. The sham and model groups were given the same dose of normal saline. TTC staining was applied to detect the cerebral infarct size and calculate the infarct volume. Histopathological changes in the hippocampus of rat brains were observed by HE staining. Flow cytometry was used to detect neuronal apoptosis in rat brains. The mRNA expressions of miR-1, ERK1/2, Bcl-2, and Bax in rat brain tissues were determined by QRT PCR, and the protein levels of ERK1/2, Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 were determined by Western blot analysis. Results. Compared with the sham group, the neurological impairment score, cerebral infarct size, and volume of rats in the model group were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the neurological impairment score, cerebral infarct size, and volume were significantly increased in the miR-1 mimic group and significantly decreased in the miR-1 inhibitor group (p < 0.05). In the model group, the hippocampal tissue of rats had malaligned cells, neuron cell atrophy became smaller, the intercellular spaces became larger, and vacuoles appeared. Compared with the model group, the miR-1 inhibitor group could effectively alleviate the pathological changes in the hippocampus, and the miR-1 mimic group could significantly add to the pathological changes in the rat hippocampus. Compared with the sham group, the mRNA expression of miR-1 and Bax in the brain of model rats increased significantly (p < 0.05), and the mRNA expression of ERK1/2 decreased significantly; Compared with the model group, the miR-1 and Bax mRNA expressions in the brain tissues of rats in the miR-1 inhibitor group were significantly decreased, the ERK1/2 and bcl-2 mRNA expressions were significantly increased, and the miR-1 and Bax mRNA expressions in the brain tissues of rats in the miR-1 inhibitor group were significantly decreased, and the Bcl-2 mRNA expression was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the sham group, neuronal apoptosis was increased in the brain tissues of rats in the model group and miR-1 mimic group. Compared with the model group, neuronal apoptosis was decreased in the brain tissues of rats in the miR-1 inhibitor group. Compared with the sham group, the ERK1/2 proteins in the model group were significantly decreased, the Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 proteins were significantly increased, and the ERK1/2, Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 proteins in the miR-1 inhibitor group and miR-1 mimic group were significantly increased. Compared with the model group, the protein levels of ERK1/2 and Bcl-2 in the miR-1 inhibitor group were significantly increased, the proteins of Bax and caspase-3 were significantly decreased, and the protein levels of ERK1/2 and Bcl-2 in the miR-1 inhibitor group were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Conclusions. miR-1 can interfere with neuronal apoptosis in rats with stroke through the ERK signaling pathway.

The Nrf2 Pathway in Ischemic Stroke: A Review

Ischemic stroke, characterized by the sudden loss of blood flow in specific area(s) of the brain, is the leading cause of permanent disability and is among the leading causes of death worldwide. The only approved pharmacological treatment for acute ischemic stroke (intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) has significant clinical limitations and does not consider the complex set of events taking place after the onset of ischemic stroke (ischemic cascade), which is characterized by significant pro-oxidative events. The transcription factor Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which regulates the expression of a great number of antioxidant and/or defense proteins, has been pointed as a potential pharmacological target involved in the mitigation of deleterious oxidative events taking place at the ischemic cascade. This review summarizes studies concerning the protective role of Nrf2 in experimental models of ischemic stroke, emphasizing molecular events resulting from ischemic stroke that are, in parallel, modulated by Nrf2. Considering the acute nature of ischemic stroke, we discuss the challenges in using a putative pharmacological strategy (Nrf2 activator) that relies upon transcription, translation and metabolically active cells in treating ischemic stroke patients.

Mechanistic Investigation of Xuebijing for Treatment of Paraquat-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis by Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology

After paraquat (PQ) poisoning, it is difficult to accurately diagnose patients' condition by only measuring their blood PQ concentration. Therefore, it is important to establish an accurate method to assist in the diagnosis of PQ poisoning, especially in the early stages. In this study, a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) metabonomics strategy was established to obtain metabolite information. A random forest algorithm was used to search for potential biomarkers of PQ poisoning, and data mining and network pharmacological analysis were used to evaluate the active components, drug-disease targets, and key pathways of Xuebijing (XBJ) injection in the treatment of PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Targets from the network pharmacology analysis and metabolites from plasma metabolomics were jointly analyzed to select crucial metabolic pathways. Finally, molecular docking technology and in vitro experiments were used to verify the pathway targets to further reveal the potential mechanisms underlying the antipulmonary fibrosis effect of XBJ. Metabonomics studies showed that l-valine, glycine, citric acid, d-mannose, d-galactose, maltose, l-tryptophan, and arachidonic acid contributed more to the differentiation of different groups than other metabolites. Compared with the control group, the PQ poisoning group had higher levels of l-valine, glycine, citric acid, l-tryptophan, and arachidonic acid, and lower levels of d-mannose, d-galactose, and maltose. After treatment with XBJ injection, the relative levels of these metabolites were reversed. The network pharmacological analysis screened a total of 180 targets, mainly involving multiple signaling pathways and metabolic pathways, which jointly played an antipulmonary fibrosis effect. Based on the combined analysis of 180 targets and 8 different metabolites, arachidonic acid metabolism was selected as the key metabolic pathway. Molecular docking analysis showed that the XBJ compound had strong binding activity with the target protein. Western blot results showed that XBJ injection could reduce the inflammatory response by downregulating the expressions of p-p65, p-IKBα, and p-IKKβ, thus inhibiting the development of PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis. In summary, the combined results from metabolomics and network pharmacology studies showed that Xuebijing has the characteristics of multitarget, multichannel, and multicomponent action in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis caused by PQ.

Sesamol-loaded stearic acid-chitosan nanomicelles mitigate the oxidative stress-stimulated apoptosis and induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines in motor neuronal of the spinal cord through NF-ĸB signaling pathway

As natural potential antioxidants suffer from low cellular uptake, the development of drug-loaded nanoplatforms may provide useful information about the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). In the present study, sesamol (SM)-loaded stearic acid (SA) -chitosan (CS) nanomicelles were fabricated and well-characterized. Afterwards, the neuroprotective effects of SM@SA-CS nanomicelles against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced oxidative stress in NSC-34 cells was assessed by different cellular and molecular pathways. It was deduced that the size of synthesized SM@SA-CS was in the range of 10-20 nm and the hydrodynamic radii of SA-CA and SM@SA-CA nanomicelles were 53.12 ± 6.21 nm and 59.12 ± 7.31 nm, respectively. Furthermore, SM@SA-CS nanomicelles displayed a sustained drug release at physiological pH, potential dissolution rate and stability even up to 15 days. Cellular assay showed that SM@SA-CS nanomicelles co-incubation with LPS for 24 h in comparison with free drug remarkably regulated cell survival, membrane leakage, generation of ROS, activity of non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant systems, and apoptotic and inflammatory signaling pathway through NF-ĸB signaling pathway. These data indicated that SM@SA-CS nanomicelles can be developed as a promising platform for the mitigation of oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis in neural cells.

Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Nutraceuticals in LPS-induced Mouse Neuroinflammation Model: An Update

It is known that peripheral infections, accompanied by inflammation, represent significant risk factors for the development of neurological disorders by modifying brain development or affecting normal brain aging. The acute effects of systemic inflammation on progressive and persistent brain damage and cognitive impairment are well documented. Anti-inflammatory therapies may have beneficial effects on the brain, and the protective properties of a wide range of synthetic and natural compounds have been extensively explored in recent years. In our previous review, we provided an extensive analysis of one of the most important and widely-used animal models of peripherally induced neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration - lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mice. We addressed the data reproducibility in published research and summarized basic features and data on the therapeutic potential of various natural products, nutraceuticals, with known anti-inflammatory effects, for reducing neuroinflammation in this model. Here, recent data on the suitability of the LPS-induced murine neuroinflammation model for preclinical assessment of a large number of nutraceuticals belonging to different groups of natural products such as flavonoids, terpenes, non-flavonoid polyphenols, glycosides, heterocyclic compounds, organic acids, organosulfur compounds and xanthophylls, are summarized. Also, the proposed mechanisms of action of these molecules are discussed.

Long noncoding RNA SOX2OT silencing alleviates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury via miR-135a-5p-mediated NR3C2 inhibition

OBJECTIVE

This study is aimed to investigate the role of the long noncoding RNA SOX2 overlapping transcript (SOX2OT) in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) and the underlying regulatory mechanisms.

METHODS

The oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)-treated PC12 cells and middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R)-treated rats were established to simulate CIRI condition in vitro and in vivo. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the expression of SOX2OT, microRNA-135a-5p (miR-135a-5p), and nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 2 (NR3C2). The cell viability and apoptosis were analyzed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assays. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) or interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were used to evaluate the oxidative stress or inflammation. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to validate the interactions among SOX2OT, miR-135a-5p, and NR3C2. Additionally, neurological deficit scores (NDS), infarct volume, and brain edema were used to assess brain impairments in vivo.

RESULTS

The expression of SOX2OT and NR3C2 was increased, while miR-135a-5p was decreased in OGD/R-treated PC12 cells. SOX2OT silencing repressed the levels of LDH, MDA, ROS, IL-1β, IL-6, reduced the numbers of TUNEL positive cells, and elevated viability and SOD level in OGD/R-treated PC12 cells. Besides, SOX2OT targeted miR-135a-5p, and miR-135a-5p targeted NR3C2. Both miR-135a-5p downregulation and NR3C2 upregulation reversed the suppressive effects of SOX2OT knockdown on oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation of OGD/R-treated PC12 cells. Furthermore, injection of sh-SOX2OT reduced the NDS, cerebral infarct, and cerebral edema in MCAO/R-treated rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Silencing of SOX2OT attenuated CIRI via regulation of the miR-135a-5p/NR3C2 axis, which may provide a novel therapeutic target for CIRI.

Neuroprotective effects of Apium graveolens against focal cerebral ischemia occur partly via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a neurological disease caused by a sudden disturbance of cerebral blood flow to the brain, leading to loss of brain function. Recently, accumulating lines of evidence have suggested that dietary enrichment with nutritional antioxidants could reduce brain damage and improve cognitive function. In this study, we investigated the possible protective effects of Apium graveolens, a medicinal plant with putative neuroprotective activity, against oxidative-stress-related brain damage and brain damage due to inflammation induced by focal cerebral ischemia.

METHODS

Male adult Wistar rats were administered with an extract of A. graveolens orally 14 days before permanent occlusion of their right middle cerebral artery. The brain infarct volumes of rats in each group were determined by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining, and the density of neurons in the cortex and hippocampus of rats was determined by cresyl violet staining. The levels of malondialdehyde, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the rats were also quantified at the end of the study period.

RESULTS

Our results show that A. graveolens extract significantly decreased infarct volume and improved neuronal density in the cortex and hippocampus of rats receiving A. graveolens extract compared with those rats receiving no treatment. This neuroprotective effect was found to occur partly due to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that A. graveolens helps to reduce the severity of cognitive damage caused by focal cerebral ischemia. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sesamol alleviates chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced cognitive deficits via inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation in rats

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a major pathophysiological feature of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can cause oxidative stress and inflammation which can further impair the nervous system. Cognitive impairment is a common complication of the nervous system in OSA. Sesamol, a natural extract from Sesamum plants, is believed to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammation capacity, which has a powerful neuroprotective function. But whether sesamol can improve CIH-induced cognitive impairment is unclear. This study aimed to explore whether sesamol can improve CIH-induced cognitive impairment and its relative mechanism in the model rats with OSA. Rats were exposed to CIH for 8 h a day for 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks separately and concurrently were treated with sesamol (20 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal). The Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to evaluate their learning and memory function. The activity of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of malondialdehyde were measured to evaluate the oxidative stress in the hippocampus of the rats. The levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in the hippocampus were quantified to analyse neuroinflammation by ELISA. The MWM test showed that sesamol improved learning and memory impairment in CIH-exposed rats. We also found that the sesamol-treated CIH-exposed rats had significantly increased the activity of SOD, as well as reduced the level of malondialdehyde in the hippocampus. In addition, sesamol also reduced the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the hippocampus. These data show that sesamol is able to alleviate cognitive impairments in CIH-exposed rats, with its neuroprotective effects likely inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation.

Garcinol protects against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress

Garcinol, a polyisoprenylated benzophenone derivative, is isolated from fruit rind of Garcinia indica. It is known to exert potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. In the present study, we tried to investigate the neuroprotective effects of garcinol on a rat model with middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) and a cell model subjected to oxygen glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R). In vivo, we found that the rats with garcinol treatment showed a lower neurological deficit score and a smaller infarct size compared with the rats with ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury alone. We further found that garcinol treatment decreased cerebral I/R-induced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, including inhibiting the production of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), decreasing the levels of malonaldehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), and suppressing the decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Moreover, the suppression of toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and nuclear NF-κB (p65) expression by garcinol was found both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, NF-κB activator or TLR4 overexpression was employed to investigate its involvement in the effects of garcinol. The results showed that NF-κB activator or TLR4 overexpression at least in part reversed the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties of garcinol in vitro. Taken together, the data suggest that garcinol could protect against cerebral I/R injury through attenuating inflammation and oxidative stress, and improving neurological function. The molecular mechanism might be related to its suppression of TLR4/NF-ĸB signal pathway.

Melatonin suppresses the brain injury after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in hyperglycaemic rats

Background and purpose

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder accompanied by oxidative and inflammatory responses, that might exacerbate vascular complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of melatonin (MLN) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion (MCAO/Re).

Experimental approach

Diabetes was induced in rats by a single injection of STZ (55 mg/kg; i.p.). The cerebral injury was then induced by MCAO/Re after six weeks. After 24 h of MCAO/Re the MLN (10 mg/kg) was administered orally for 14 days. Serum and tissue samples were extracted to determine malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and the tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α). Part of the brain tissue was kept in formalin for pathological and immunohistochemical studies to determine nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) immune reactivity.

Findings/Results

MCAO/Re in STZ-induced hyperglycaemic rats caused a decrease in brain GSH, an increase in brain MDA, and NO was increased in both serum and brain tissue. Rats showed a prominent increase in the serum and brain inflammatory markers viz. IL-1β and TNF-α. Oral treatment with MLN (10 mg/kg) for two weeks reduced the brain levels of MDA, NO, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Impressive amelioration in pathological findings, as well as a significant decrease in NF-kB and COX2 immune stained cells of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum, occurred after treatment with MLN. It also succeeded to suppress the exacerbation of damage in the brain of hyperglycaemic rats.

Conclusion and implications

Daily intake of MLN attenuates the exacerbation of cerebral ischemic injury in a diabetic state.

Sesamol Protects Testis from Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury through Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species and Upregulating CREMτ Expression

Testicular torsion/detorsion-induced damage is considered as a typical ischemia-reperfusion injury attributed to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS may regulate many genes whose expression affects cell-cycle regulation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. The cAMP-responsive element modulator-τ (CREMτ) gene expression in the testis is essential for normal germ cell differentiation. The present study was aimed at investigating the effect of sesamol, a powerful antioxidant, on testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury and related mechanisms in an experimental testicular torsion-detorsion rat model. The type of our study was a randomized controlled trial. Sixty rats were randomly divided into the following 3 groups: (1) sham-operated control group (n = 20), (2) testicular ischemia-reperfusion group (n = 20), and (3) testicular ischemia-reperfusion+sesamol-treated group (n = 20). Testicular ischemia-reperfusion was induced by left testicular torsion (720° rotation in a counterclockwise direction) for 2 hours, followed by detorsion. Orchiectomy was performed at 4 hours or 3 months after detorsion. The testis was obtained for the analysis of the following parameters, including malondialdehyde level (a sensitive indicator of ROS), CREMτ expression, and spermatogenesis. In the testicular ischemia-reperfusion group, the malondialdehyde level was significantly increased with a concomitant significant decrease in CREMτ expression and spermatogenesis in ipsilateral testis. These results suggest that overproduction of ROS after testicular ischemia-reperfusion may downregulate CREMτ expression, which causes spermatogenic injury. Sesamol treatment resulted in a significant reduction in the malondialdehyde level and significant increase in CREMτ expression and spermatogenesis in ipsilateral testis. These data support the above suggestion. Our study shows that sesamol can attenuate testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury through scavenging ROS and upregulating CREMτ expression.

Quercetin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion and oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation neurotoxicity

Beyond nutrition effect, quercetin is applied as a complement or an alternative for promoting human health and treating diseases. However, its complicated neuroprotective mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. This study provides evidence of an alternative target for quercetin, and sheds light on the mechanisms of its neuroprotection against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in Sprague-Dawley rats. Oral pretreatment using quercetin has alleviated cerebral I/R-induced neurological deficits, brain infarction, blood-brain barrier disruption, oxidative stress, TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA expression, along with apoptotic caspase 3 activity. The neuroprotective, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of quercetin were replicated in rat hippocampal slice cultures and neuron/glia cultures which suffered from oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGDR). Biochemical studies revealed a reduction of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt phosphorylation, along with an increase in protein tyrosine and serine/threonine phosphatase activity in cerebral I/R rat cortical tissues and OGDR hippocampal slice and neuron/glia cultures. Quercetin alleviated the changes in ERK/Akt phosphorylation and protein phosphatase activities. Inhibition of ERK or Akt alone was enough to cause apoptotic cell death and cytotoxicity in hippocampal slice cultures and neuron/glia cultures, while activators of ERK or Akt alleviated OGDR-induced cytotoxicity. Taken together, our results demonstrate that quercetin alleviated the increment of protein tyrosine and serine/threonine phosphatase activity, along with the reduction of ERK and Akt phosphorylation, which may play pivotal roles in the expansion of brain injury after cerebral I/R.

Protective effect of microRNA‑340‑5p against oxygen‑glucose deprivation/reperfusion in PC12 cells through targeting neuronal differentiation 4

The expression levels of microRNA (miR)‑340‑5p are reportedly decreased in the peripheral blood during acute ischemic stroke; however, the direct effect and mechanism of action of miR‑340‑5p in ischemic stroke remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of miR‑340‑5p, and its mechanism of action, on PC12 cells following oxygen‑glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) induction. OGD/R‑induced PC12 cells served as the cellular model and subsequently, mRNA expression levels of miR‑340‑5p and neuronal differentiation 4 (Neurod4) were analyzed using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Tumor necrosis factor‑α, interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6 expression levels were detected using ELISA kits, and flow cytometry was used to determine the rate of cellular apoptosis. In addition, a nitric oxide (NO) synthase activity assay kit was used to detect NO levels and a NADPH assay kit was used to measure NADPH levels. Western blotting was also performed to analyze protein expression levels of bax, bcl‑2, cleaved caspase 3 and phosphorylated endothelial NOS (eNOS), and the target gene of miR‑340‑5p was predicted using TargetScan software and verified using a dual‑luciferase reporter assay. The expression levels of miR‑340‑5p were decreased in PC12 cells following OGD/R induction and Neurod4 was identified as a target gene of miR‑340‑5p. In addition, miR‑340‑5p overexpression reduced inflammation, apoptotic rate, NO production and NADPH levels, in addition to increasing eNOS expression in PC12 cells following OGD/R induction. Notably, the overexpression of Neurod4 reversed the aforementioned effects of miR‑340‑5p on PC12 cells following OGD/R induction. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that miR‑340‑5p may protect PC12 cells against OGD/R through targeting Neurod4, which could provide important implications for the treatment of ischemia‑reperfusion injury based on miR‑340‑5p expression levels in vivo.

Sesamol Alleviates Airway Hyperresponsiveness and Oxidative Stress in Asthmatic Mice

Sesamol, isolated from sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), was previously shown to have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects. Sesamol also inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pulmonary inflammatory response in rats. However, it remains unclear how sesamol regulates airway inflammation and oxidative stress in asthmatic mice. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of sesamol on oxidative stress and airway inflammation in asthmatic mice and tracheal epithelial cells. BALB/c mice were sensitized with ovalbumin, and received oral sesamol on days 14 to 27. Furthermore, BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells were treated with sesamol to investigate inflammatory cytokine levels and oxidative responses in vitro. Our results demonstrated that oral sesamol administration significantly suppressed eosinophil infiltration in the lung, airway hyperresponsiveness, and T helper 2 cell-associated (Th2) cytokine expressions in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and the lungs. Sesamol also significantly increased glutathione expression and reduced malondialdehyde levels in the lungs of asthmatic mice. We also found that sesamol significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels and eotaxin in inflammatory BEAS-2B cells. Moreover, sesamol alleviated reactive oxygen species formation, and suppressed intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression, which reduced monocyte cell adherence. We demonstrated that sesamol showed potential as a therapeutic agent for improving asthma.

PINK1 overexpression protects against cerebral ischemia through Parkin regulation

Mitochondrial dynamics and function are important for cell survival regulation under stress. In this study, we report that cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury significantly reduced mitochondrial function through reduced PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) expression, ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) levels, and increased oxidative stress compared to sham rats. PINK1 overexpression mice significantly improved mitochondrial function by increased mitochondrial complex I, II, and III activities and ATP levels with concomitant decline in reactive oxygen species levels. PINK1 overexpression mice after I/R injury significantly reduced apoptosis through downregulation of cytochrome c, p53 expressions compared to cerebral I/R injury rats. Furthermore, we showed from parkin siRNA studies that PINK1 regulated phosphorylation parkin is critical to the protection against cerebral I/R injury. Altogether, we show that PINK1 mediated parkin regulation is key to the protection against cerebral I/R injury through regulation of mitochondrial function and apoptosis.

Sesamol Alleviates Obesity-Related Hepatic Steatosis via Activating Hepatic PKA Pathway

This study aimed to investigate the effect of sesamol (SEM) on the protein kinase A (PKA) pathway in obesity-related hepatic steatosis treatment by using high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice and a palmitic acid (PA)-treated HepG2 cell line. SEM reduced the body weight gain of obese mice and alleviated related metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and systemic inflammation. Furthermore, lipid accumulation in the liver and HepG2 cells was reduced by SEM. SEM downregulated the gene and protein levels of lipogenic regulator factors, and upregulated the gene and protein levels of the regulator factors responsible for lipolysis and fatty acid β-oxidation. Meanwhile, SEM activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which might explain the regulatory effect of SEM on fatty acid β-oxidation and lipogenesis. Additionally, the PKA-C and phospho-PKA substrate levels were higher after SEM treatment. Further research found that after pretreatment with the PKA inhibitor, H89, lipid accumulation was increased even with SEM administration in HepG2 cells, and the effect of SEM on lipid metabolism-related regulator factors was abolished by H89. In conclusion, SEM has a positive therapeutic effect on obesity and obesity-related hepatic steatosis by regulating the hepatic lipid metabolism mediated by the PKA pathway.

ApoE-Dependent Protective Effects of Sesamol on High-Fat Diet-Induced Behavioral Disorders: Regulation of the Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis

Sesamol, an antioxidant lignan from sesame oil, possesses neuroprotective bioactivities. The present work was aimed to elucidate the systemic protective effects of sesamol on cognitive deficits and to determine the possible link between gut and brain. Wildtype and ApoE^-/- mice were treated with a high-fat diet and sesamol (0.05%, w/v, in drinking water) for 10 weeks. Behavioral tests including Morris-water maze, Y-maze, and elevated plus maze tests indicated that sesamol could only improve cognitive deficits and anxiety behaviors in wildtype. Consistently, sesamol improved synapse ultrastructure and inhibited Aβ accumulation in an ApoE-dependent manner. Moreover, sesamol prevented dietary-induced gut barrier damages and systemic inflammation. Sesamol also reshaped gut microbiome and improved the generation of microbial metabolites short-chain fatty acids. To summarize, this study revealed that the possible mechanism of neuroprotective effects of sesamol might be ApoE-dependent, and its beneficial effects on gut microbiota/metabolites could be translated into neurodegenerative diseases treatment.

Inhibition of Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase IIα Suppresses Oxidative Stress in Cerebral Ischemic Rats Through Targeting Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, and oxidative stress plays a significant role in the ischemia stage and reperfusion stage. Previous studies have indicated that both calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) are involved in the oxidative stress. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the roles of CaMKIIα, an important isoform of CaMKII, and G6PD in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Intracerebroventricular injection of small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) for CaMKIIα was performed at 48 h pre-MCAO surgery. Immunofluorescence Staining and western blot were performed to detect the expression of p-CaMKIIα and G6PD in the cortices. 2, 3, 5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining was performed to investigate the infarct volume. In addition, neurological deficit, reactive oxygen species (ROS), ratio of reduced-to-oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) and ratio of reduced-to-oxidized oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH/NADP⁺) were assessed. The results indicated that both p-CaMKIIα and G6PD were widely located in the neurons and astrocytes, and their expression was gradually increased in the cortices after MCAO, which was accompanied by increased level of ROS and decreased levels of GSH/GSSG and NADPH/NADP⁺. However, after treatment with siRNA for CaMKIIα, p-CaMKIIα expression was decreased and G6PD expression was increased. Moreover, inhibition of CaMKIIα improved the neurological deficit, reduced the infarct volume, decreased the level of ROS and increased the levels of GSH/GSSG and NADPH/NADP⁺. The results suggested that CaMKIIα inhibition exerted neuroprotective effects through regulating G6PD expression, which provides a new target for prevention and treatment of stroke.

Protective effects of sesamol on systemic oxidative stress-induced cognitive impairments via regulation of Nrf2/Keap1 pathway

Oxidative stress is considered as a pivotal culprit in neurodegenerative diseases and brain aging. The aim of present study was to investigate antioxidative and neuroprotective effects of sesamol, a phenolic lignan from sesame oil, on oxidative stress induced neuron damage and memory impairments. C57BL/6J mice were treated by intraperitoneal injections of d-galactose for 8 weeks. Sesamol treatment (0.05% w/v, in drinking water) suppressed d-galactose-induced liver damages and improved HO-1 and NQO1 mRNA levels. Behavioral tests, including Y-maze test and water maze-test, revealed that sesamol significantly improved oxidative stress-induced cognitive impairments. Meanwhile, sesamol ameliorated neuronal damage and improved BDNF level in rat hippocampus. Sesamol elevated mRNA levels and protein expressions of antioxidant enzymes HO-1 and NQO1 as well as decreased inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in d-galactose-treated mice serum. In addition, activity of CAT and GSH level were increased in sesamol-treated mice serum. Moreover, sesamol treatment also balanced cellular redox status, protected mitochondrial dysfunction and upregulated antioxidant enzymes by activating the Nrf2 transcriptional pathway and its nuclear translocation in H2O2-treated SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, these results revealed that sesamol could be a potential neuroprotective agent during aging process due to its beneficial effects on liver-brain axis.