Resveratrol attenuates cyclosporin A-induced upregulation of the thromboxane A2 receptor and hypertension via the AMPK/SIRT1 and MAPK/NF-κB pathways in the rat mesenteric artery

Cyclosporin A, an immunosuppressive agent, is extensively utilized for the prevention of transplant rejection and treat autoimmune disease in the clinic, despite its association with a high risk of hypertension development among patients. Resveratrol is a kind of non-flavonoid phenolic compound that widely exists in many plants. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism by which resveratrol ameliorates cyclosporin A-induced hypertension. The arterial rings of the mesentery were incubated with cyclosporin A and resveratrol in vitro. Rats were administered cyclosporin A and/or resveratrol for 3 weeks in vivo. Blood pressure was measured via the tail arteries. Vasoconstriction curves were recorded using a sensitive myograph. The protein expression was evaluated through Western blotting. This study demonstrated that resveratrol mitigated the cyclosporin A-induced increase in blood pressure in rats. Furthermore, resveratrol markedly inhibited the cyclosporin A-induced upregulation of thromboxane A2 receptor-mediated vasoconstriction in the rat mesenteric artery both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, resveratrol activated AMPK/SIRT1 and inhibited the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, resveratrol restored the cyclosporin A-induced upregulation of the thromboxane A2 receptor and hypertension via the AMPK/SIRT1 and MAPK/NF-κB pathways in rats.

Resveratrol evokes neuroprotective effects and improves foot stance following kainate-induced excitotoxic damage to the mouse spinal cord

Excitotoxicity, characterized by over-activation of glutamate receptors, is a major contributor to spinal cord injury (SCI) pathophysiology, resulting in neuronal death and loss of locomotor function. In our previous in vitro studies, we showed that excitotoxicity induced by the glutamate analogue kainate (KA) leads to a significant reduction in the number of neurons, providing a model for SCI. Our current objective was to assess the neuroprotective role of resveratrol (RESV), a natural polyphenol, following KA-induced SCI. In vivo excitotoxicity was induced by intraspinal injection of KA immediately followed by RESV administration to Balb/C adult male mice. In neonatal mouse spinal cord preparations, excitotoxicity was transiently induced by bath-applied KA, either with or without RESV. KA administration resulted in a significant deterioration in hindlimb motor coordination and balance during locomotion, which was partially reverted by RESV. Additionally, RESV preserved neurons in both dorsal and ventral regions. Sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) immunoreactive signal was increased by RESV, while the selective SIRT1 inhibitor 6-chloro-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-carbazole-1-carboxamide (EX-527) attenuated RESV neuroprotective effects. These findings suggest that RESV attenuation of excitotoxic-induced neuronal loss and locomotor deficits is mediated, at least in part, through the activation of SIRT1, potentially involving SIRT2 as well. Indeed, our results highlight the potential use of RESV to enhance neuroprotective strategies for SCI.

Resveratrol Reduces Neuroinflammation and Hippocampal Microglia Activation and Protects Against Impairment of Memory and Anxiety-Like Behavior in Experimental Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and postural impairments. However, early brain injury can promote deleterious effects on the hippocampus, impairing memory. This study aims to investigate the effects of resveratrol treatment on memory, anxiety-like behavior, and neuroinflammation markers in rats with CP. Male Wistar rats were subjected to perinatal anoxia (P0-P1) and sensory-motor restriction (P2-P28). They were treated with resveratrol (10 mg/kg, 0.1 ml/100 g) or saline from P3-P21, being divided into four experimental groups: CS (n = 15), CR (n = 15), CPS (n = 15), and CPR (n = 15). They were evaluated in the tests of novel object recognition (NORT), T-Maze, Light-Dark Box (LDB), and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM). Compared to the CS group, the CPS group has demonstrated a reduced discrimination index on the NORT (p < 0.0001) and alternation on the T-Maze (p < 0.01). In addition, the CPS group showed an increase in permanence time on the dark side in LDB (p < 0.0001) and on the close arms of the EPM (p < 0.001). The CPR group demonstrated an increase in the object discrimination index (p < 0.001), on the alternation (p < 0.001), on the permanence time on the light side (p < 0.0001), and on the open arms (p < 0.001). The CPR group showed a reduction in gene expression of IL-6 (p = 0.0175) and TNF-α (p = 0.0007) and an increase in Creb-1 levels (p = 0.0020). The CPS group showed an increase in the activated microglia and a reduction in cell proliferation in the hippocampus, while CPR animals showed a reduction of activated microglia and an increase in cell proliferation. These results demonstrate promising effects of resveratrol in cerebral palsy behavior impairment through reduced neuroinflammation in the hippocampus.

The flexural strength of orthodontic acrylic resin containing resveratrol nanoparticles as antimicrobial agent: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate how the addition of resveratrol nanoparticles (RNPs), which act as an antimicrobial agent, affects the strength of acrylic resin used in orthodontics.

METHODS

According to ISO 20795-1-2013, 76 cold cure acrylic resin samples (65×10×3.3mm) were prepared. The samples were divided into four groups (19 samples in each group) based on RN concentrations added to 1mL acrylic monomer (0 for control, 256, 512, and 1024μg/mL). Flexural strength was assessed in megapascal (MPa) using a universal testing machine. Data analysis involved nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance and pairwise post-hoc Dunn's test.

RESULTS

The flexural strength decreased as the concentration of RNPs increased, with the lowest value observed at 1024μg/mL (63.06±5.33MPa). The control group exhibited the highest mean of flexural strength (88.43±4.41MPa), followed by the groups with RNPs at the concentrations of 256μg/mL (82.69±4.41MPa) and 512μg/mL (76.02±4.59MPa).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the addition of RNs to orthodontic acrylic resin had a dose-dependent impact on its flexural strength. Based on the findings, we recommend incorporating RNs at a concentration of 256μg/mL as an antimicrobial agent in orthodontic acrylic resin. However, further research is necessary to assess the long-term effects and clinical applications of this approach.

Anti-inflammatory effects of quinolinyl analog of resveratrol targeting TLR4 in MCAO/R ischemic stroke rat model

BACKGROUND

Among adults, stroke is the main causes of mortality and permanent disability. Neuroinflammation is one of the main causes of stoke-mediated neuronal death. Our previous study revealed that (E)-5-(2-(Quinolin-4-yl) vinyl) benzene-1, 3-diol (RV01), a quinolinyl analog of resveratrol, inhibits microglia-induced neuroinflammation and safeguards neurons from inflammatory harm. The preventive role of RV01 in ischemic stroke and its underlying cellular mechanisms and molecular targets remain poorly understood.

PURPOSE

To investigate whether RV01 alleviates ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury by inhibiting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and determine the potential molecular mechanisms and targets by which RV01 inhibits the I/R-mediated microglia activation.

METHODS

Rat middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO/R) and BV-2 or primary microglial cells oxygen-glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) models were established. The neurological behavior scores, 2, 3, 5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining and immunofluorescence were used to detect the neuroprotective effect of RV01 in the MCAO/R rats. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β were detected to reveal the antineuroinflammatory effect of RV01. Moreover, a western blot assay was performed to explore the protein expression changes in NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation. Finally, we identified TLR4 as an RV01 target through molecular docking, drug sensitivity target stability analysis, cellular thermal shift analysis, and surface plasmon resonance techniques.

RESULTS

RV01 reduced the infarct volume and neurological deficits, increased the rotarod duration, and decreased the number of rightward deflections in the MCAO/R rats. RV01 inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, as demonstrated by the reduction in the transcription factor p65-mediated expression of several inflammatory factors including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β. Further studies showed that its protective effect was associated with targeting the TLR4 protein. Notably, the anti-inflammatory effect of RV01 was markedly reinforced by the TLR4 knockdown, but inhibited by the overexpression of TLR4. Results revealed that the conditioned medium derived from the RV01-treated BV-2 cells significantly decreased the OGD/R-mediated neuronal damage.

CONCLUSION

Our results are the first to reveal the protective effects of RV01 on cerebral ischemia, depending on its inhibitory effect on the NF-κB pathway by targeting TLR4. RV01 could be a potential protective agent in ischemic stroke treatment.

Suppression of breast cancer: modulation of estrogen receptor and downregulation of gene expression using natural products

The main cause of cancer death among women is breast cancer. The most common type of breast cancer is the estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. Discovery of estrogen receptor provided a highly effective target for treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer. Selective estrogen receptor inhibitors are useful for halting the growth of breast cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. Tamoxifen, a popular selective estrogen receptor modulator, can treat breast cancer but also has unfavourable side effects due to its estrogenic activity in other tissues. Many herbal remedies and bioactive natural compounds, such as genistein, resveratrol, ursolic acid, betulinic acid, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, prenylated isoflavonoids, zearalenol, coumestrol, pelargonidin, delphinidin, and biochanin A, have the ability to specifically modulate the estrogen receptor alpha. Moreover, several of these compounds speed up cell death by supressing estrogen receptor gene expression. This opens wide avenue to introduce number of natural medicines with a revolutionary therapeutic impact and few side effects.

An exosomal approach for oral delivery of resveratrol: Implications for inflammatory bowel disease treatment in rat model

AIMS

Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenolic substance found in numerous natural products. Despite the wide range of therapeutic activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, the poor pharmacokinetic characteristics decrease the RSV bioavailability following oral administration. Milk-derived exosomes (MEXOs), as a class of natural nanocarriers, are promising candidates for oral drug delivery approaches.

MAIN METHODS

The current study developed RSV-loaded MEXOs to enhance the RSV oral bioavailability, introducing a suitable exosomal formulation for suppressing colon inflammation in acetic acid-induced rat models.

KEY FINDINGS

The results showed a remarkable encapsulation efficiency of 83.33 %. The in vitro release profile demonstrated a good retaining capability in acidic conditions (pH 1.2) and a considerable release in a simulated duodenal environment (pH 6.8). According to the permeability study, encapsulation of RSV improved its transportation across the Caco-2 monolayer. Moreover, the in vivo and histological analysis results proved that the RSV-MEXOs formulation successfully alleviates the inflammation in colitis rat models and effectively relieves the colitis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that MEXOs should be of great attention as promising oral drug delivery vehicles for further clinical evaluations.

Gastrodin alleviates mitochondrial dysfunction by regulating SIRT3-mediated TFAM acetylation in vascular dementia

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial dysfunction is key to the pathogenesis of vascular dementia (VaD). Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3), an essential member of the sirtuins family, has been proven to be a critical sirtuin in regulating mitochondrial function. The phenolic glucoside gastrodin (GAS), a bioactive ingredient from Gastrodiae Rhizome (known in Chinese as Tian ma) demonstrates significant neuroprotective properties against central nervous system disorders; however, the precise mechanisms through which GAS modulates VaD remain elusive.

PURPOSE

This study aims to investigate whether GAS confers a protective role against VaD, and to figure out the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

A bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO)-mediated chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) VaD rat model and a hypoxia model using HT22 cells were employed to investigate pharmacological properties of GAS in mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction. A SIRT3 agonist resveratrol (RES), a SIRT3 inhibitor 3-TYP and SIRT3-knockdown in vitro were used to explore the mechanism of GAS in association with SIRT3. The ability of SIRT3 to bind and deacetylate mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) was detected by immunoprecipitation assay, and TFAM acetylation sites were further validated using mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

GAS increased SIRT3 expression and ameliorated mitochondrial structure, mitochondrial respiration, mitochondrial dynamics along with upregulated TFAM, mitigating oxidative stress and senescence. Comparable results were noted with the SIRT3 agonist RES, indicating an impactful neuroprotection played by SIRT3. Specifically, the attenuation of SIRT3 expression through knockdown techniques or exposure to the SIRT3 inhibitor 3-TYP in HT22 cells markedly abrogated GAS-mediated mitochondrial rescuing function. Furthermore, our findings elucidate a novel facet: SIRT3 interacted with and deacetylated TFAM at the K5, K7, and K8 sites. Decreased SIRT3 is accompanied by hyper-acetylated TFAM.

CONCLUSION

The present results were the first to demonstrate that the SIRT3/TFAM pathway is a protective target for reversing mitochondrial dysfunction in VaD. The findings suggest that GAS-mediated modulation of the SIRT3/TFAM pathway, a novel mechanism, could ameliorate CCH-induced VaD, offering a potentially beneficial therapeutic strategy for VaD.

Induction of the human CDC45 gene promoter activity by natural compound trans‑resveratrol

GGAA motifs in the human TP53 and HELB gene promoters play a part in responding to trans‑resveratrol (Rsv) in HeLa S3 cells. This sequence is also present in the 5'‑upstream region of the human CDC45 gene, which encodes a component of CMG DNA helicase protein complex. The cells were treated with Rsv (20 µM), then transcripts and the translated protein were analyzed by quantitative RT‑PCR and western blotting, respectively. The results showed that the CDC45 gene and protein expression levels were induced after the treatment. To examine whether they were due to the activation of transcription, a 5'‑upstream 556‑bp of the CDC45 gene was cloned and inserted into a multi‑cloning site of the Luciferase (Luc) expression vector. In the present study, various deletion/point mutation‑introduced Luc expression plasmids were constructed and they were used for the transient transfection assay. The results showed that the GGAA motif, which is included in a putative RELB protein recognizing sequence, plays a part in the promoter activity with response to Rsv in HeLa S3 cells.

Resveratrol, a novel inhibitor of fatty acid binding protein 5, inhibits cervical cancer metastasis by suppressing fatty acid transport into nucleus and downstream pathways

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Because of cervical cancer (CC) metastasis, the prognosis of diagnosed patients is poor. However, the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic approach for metastatic CC remain elusive.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

In this study, we first evaluated the effect of resveratrol (RSV) on CC cell migration and metastasis. Via an activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) approach, a photoaffinity probe of RSV (RSV-P) was synthesized, and the protein targets of RSV in HeLa cells were identified. Based on target information and subsequent in vivo and in vitro validation experiments, we finally elucidated the mechanism of RSV corresponding to its antimetastatic activity.

KEY RESULTS

The results showed that RSV concentration-dependently suppressed CC cell migration and metastasis. A list of proteins was identified as the targets of RSV, through the ABPP approach with RSV-P, among which fatty acid binding protein 5 (FABP5) attracted our attention based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database analysis. Subsequent knockout and overexpression experiments confirmed that RSV directly interacted with FABP5 to inhibit fatty acid transport into the nucleus, thereby suppressing downstream matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) expression, thus inhibiting CC metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our study confirmed the key role of FABP5 in CC metastasis and provided important target information for the design of therapeutic lead compounds for metastatic CC.

Resveratrol-loaded sulfated Hericium erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticles: Preparation, characterization and synergistic anti-inflammatory effects

Resveratrol (RES) is a natural polyphenol with excellent biological activity. But the poor stability and bioavailability of RES severely limit its application. Thus, the resveratrol-loaded sulfated Hericium erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticles (DS-CS-RES NPs) were prepared using electrostatic self-assembly to solve these problems in this study. The structure of DS-CS-RES NPs was spherical or sub spherical shape with small average particle size (191.07 nm), which was characterized by FT-IR, FS, XRD and TEM. DS-CS-RES NPs exhibited good stability and RES had a sustainable release from the nanoparticles in gastrointestinal digestion. Meanwhile, DS-CS-RES NPs could improve the inflammatory injury of LPS stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages by inhibiting the production of NO, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. Furthermore, DS-CS-RES NPs had strong anti-inflammatory activity by regulating protein levels of NF-κB p65, STAT1 and TLR4 through NF-κB and JAK-STAT1 signaling pathway in vitro, and sulfated H. erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticle (DS-CS NPs) and RES had synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. Overall, DS-CS NPs can serve as a potential green and safe functional carrier for encapsulating resveratrol, which can improve its anti-inflammatory activity. This work may be conducive to the development of functional carrier for encapsulating RES and applications of hydrophobic active molecules in functional foods or medicines.

Resveratrol protects cardiomyocytes against ischemia/reperfusion-induced ferroptosis via inhibition of the VDAC1/GPX4 pathway

The present study aimed to explore how resveratrol (Res) confers myocardial protection by attenuating ferroptosis. In vivo and in vitro myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) models were established, with or without Res pretreatment. The results showed that Res pretreatment effectively attenuated MIRI, as evidenced by increased cell viability, reduced lactate dehydrogenase activity, decreased infarct size, and maintained cardiac function. Moreover, Res pretreatment inhibited MIRI-induced ferroptosis, as shown by improved mitochondrial integrity, increased glutathione level, decreased prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 level, inhibited iron overload, and abnormal lipid peroxidation. Of note, Res pretreatment decreased or increased voltage-dependent anion channel 1/glutathione peroxidase 4 (VDAC1/GPX4) expression, which was increased or decreased via anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R) treatment, respectively. However, the overexpression of VDAC1 via pAd/VDAC1 and knockdown of GPX4 through Si-GPX4 reversed the protective effect of Res in A/R-induced H9c2 cells, whereas the inhibition of GPX4 with RSL3 abolished the protective effect of Res on mice treated with ischemia/reperfusion.Interestingly, knockdown of VDAC1 by Si-VDAC1 promoted the protective effect of Res on A/R-induced H9c2 cells and the regulation of GPX4. Finally, the direct interaction between VDAC1 and GPX4 was determined using co-immunoprecipitation. In conclusion, Res pretreatment could protect the myocardium against MIRI-induced ferroptosis via the VDAC1/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Resveratrol attenuates inflammation and fibrosis in rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease via the AKT/TMEM175 pathway

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) represents a significant complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that lacks effective treatment options. This study aimed to investigate the intrinsic mechanism by which resveratrol attenuates rheumatoid arthritis complicated with interstitial lung disease through the AKT/TMEM175 pathway.

METHODS

We established an arthritis model by combining chicken type II collagen and complete Freund's adjuvant. Resveratrol treatment was administered via tube feeding for 10 days. Pathological changes in both the joints and lungs were evaluated using HE and Masson staining techniques. Protein expression of TGF-β1, AKT, and TMEM175 was examined in lung tissue. MRC-5 cells were stimulated using IL-1β in combination with TGF-β1 as an in vitro model of RA-ILD, and agonists of AKT, metabolic inhibitors, and SiRNA of TMEM175 were used to explore the regulation and mechanism of action of resveratrol RA-ILD.

RESULTS

Resveratrol mitigates fibrosis in rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease and reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in RA-ILD. Furthermore, resveratrol restored cellular autophagy. When combined with the in vitro model, it was further demonstrated that resveratrol could suppress TGF-β1 expression, and reduce AKT metamorphic activation, consequently inhibiting the opening of AKT/MEM175 ion channels. This, in turn, lowers lysosomal pH and enhances the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes, ultimately ameliorating the progression of RA-ILD.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we demonstrated that resveratrol restores autophagic flux through the AKT/MEM175 pathway to attenuate inflammation as well as fibrosis in RA-ILD by combining in vivo and in vitro experiments. It further provides a theoretical basis for the selection of therapeutic targets for RA-ILD.

Boosting wound healing in diabetic rats: The role of nicotinamide riboside and resveratrol in UPR modulation and pyroptosis inhibition

BACKGROUND

Diabetes-related skin ulcers provide a substantial therapeutic issue, sometimes leading to amputation, needing immediate practical treatments for efficient wound care. While the exact mechanisms are unknown, pyroptosis and deregulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) are known to exacerbate inflammation. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and Resveratrol (RV), which are known for their Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, are being studied as potential treatments. The purpose of this study was to shed light on the underlying molecular mechanisms and explore the medical application of NR and RV in diabetic wound healing.

METHODS

54 male Sprague-Dawley rats divided into control, diabetic (DM), Gel Base, DM-NR, DM-RV, and DM-NR + RV. Rats were orally administered 50 mg/kg/day of RV and 300 mg/kg/day of NR for 5 weeks. Following diabetes induction, their wounds were topically treated with 5 % NR and RV gel for 15 days. The wound closure rate, body weight, and serum lipid profiles were examined. Gene expression study evaluated UPR and pyroptosis-related genes (BIP, PERK, ATF6, IRE1α, sXBP1, CHOP, NLRP3, caspase-1, NFκB, and IL1-β) in wound tissues, alongside histological assessment of cellular changes.

RESULTS

NR and RV treatments greatly enhanced wound healing. Molecular investigation demonstrated UPR and pyroptosis marker modifications, suggesting UPR balance and anti-inflammatory effects. Histological investigation demonstrated decreased inflammation and increased re-epithelialization. The combination of NR and RV therapy had better results than either treatment alone.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that NR and RV have therapeutic promise in treating diabetic wounds by addressing UPR dysregulation, and pyroptosis. The combination therapy is a viable strategy to improving the healing process, providing a multimodal intervention for diabetic skin ulcers. These findings pave the way for additional investigation and possible therapeutic applications, giving hope for better outcomes in diabetic wound care.

Plant phenolics inhibit focal adhesion kinase and suppress host cell invasion by uropathogenic Escherichia coli

Traditional folk treatments for the prevention and management of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other infectious diseases often include plants and plant extracts that are rich in phenolic compounds. These have been ascribed a variety of activities, including inhibition of bacterial interactions with host cells. Here, we tested a panel of four well-studied phenolic compounds-caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), resveratrol, catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate-for the effects on host cell adherence and invasion by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). These bacteria, which are the leading cause of UTIs, can bind and subsequently invade bladder epithelial cells via an actin-dependent process. Intracellular UPEC reservoirs within the bladder are often protected from antibiotics and host defenses and likely contribute to the development of chronic and recurrent infections. In cell culture-based assays, only resveratrol had a notable negative effect on UPEC adherence to bladder cells. However, both CAPE and resveratrol significantly inhibited UPEC entry into the host cells, coordinate with attenuated phosphorylation of the host actin regulator Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK or PTK2) and marked increases in the numbers of focal adhesion structures. We further show that the intravesical delivery of resveratrol inhibits UPEC infiltration of the bladder mucosa in a murine UTI model and that resveratrol and CAPE can disrupt the ability of other invasive pathogens to enter host cells. Together, these results highlight the therapeutic potential of molecules like CAPE and resveratrol, which could be used to augment antibiotic treatments by restricting pathogen access to protective intracellular niches.IMPORTANCEUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are exceptionally common and increasingly difficult to treat due to the ongoing rise and spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Furthermore, the primary cause of UTIs, uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), can avoid antibiotic exposure and many host defenses by invading the epithelial cells that line the bladder surface. Here, we identified two plant-derived phenolic compounds that disrupt activation of the host machinery needed for UPEC entry into bladder cells. One of these compounds, resveratrol, effectively inhibited UPEC invasion of the bladder mucosa in a mouse UTI model, and both phenolic compounds significantly reduced host cell entry by other invasive pathogens. These findings suggest that select phenolic compounds could be used to supplement existing antibacterial therapeutics by denying uropathogens shelter within host cells and tissues and help explain some of the benefits attributed to traditional plant-based medicines.

The role of uterus mitochondrial function in high-fat diet-related adverse pregnancy outcomes and protection by resveratrol

This study elucidates the mechanism of obesity-related adverse pregnancy outcomes and further investigates the effect of resveratrol on reproductive performance in a short- or long-term HFD-induced obese mouse model. Results show that maternal weight had a significant positive correlation with litter mortality in mice. A long-term HFD increased body weight and litter mortality with decreased expression of uterine cytochrome oxidase 4 (COX4), which was recovered by resveratrol in mice. Moreover, HFD decreased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factors-1 (Nrf-1), and phosphorylated adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) and increased the expression of phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK) in the uterus. Resveratrol, a polyphenol that can directly bind to the ERK protein, suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK, increased the expression of p-AMPK, PGC-1α and Nrf-1, and decreased litter mortality in mice.

Methyl CpG binding protein MBD2 has a regulatory role on the BRCA1 gene expression and its modulation by resveratrol in ER+, PR+ & triple-negative breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol has demonstrated its ability to regulate BRCA1 gene expression in breast cancer cells, and previous studies have established the binding of MBD proteins to BRCA1 gene promoter regions. However, the molecular mechanism underlying these interactions remains to be elucidated. The aimed to evaluate the impact of MBD proteins on the regulation of BRCA1, BRCA2, and p16 genes and their consequential effects on breast cancer cells.

METHODS

Efficacy of resveratrol was assessed using the MTT assay. Binding interactions were investigated through EMSA, ChIP, & MeIP assay. Expression analyses of MBD genes and proteins were conducted using qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. Functional assays, including clonogenic, migratory, and sphere formation assays were used to assess cancer cells' colony-forming, metastatic, and tumor-forming abilities. The cytotoxicity of resveratrol on cancer cells was also tested using an apoptosis assay.

RESULTS

The study determined an IC50 of 30µM for resveratrol. MBD proteins were found to bind to the BRCA1 gene promoter. Resveratrol exhibited regulatory effects on MBD gene expression, subsequently impacting BRCA1 gene expression and protein levels. Higher concentrations of resveratrol resulted in reduced colony and sphere formation, decreases migration of cancer cells, and an increases number of apoptotic cells in breast cancer cells. Impact Identification of MBD2-BRCA1 axis indicates their significant role in the induction of apoptosis and reduction of metastasis and proliferation in breast cancer cells. Further therapy can be designed to target these MBD proteins and resveratrol could be used along with other anticancer drugs to target breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion MBD2 protein interact to the BRCA1 gene promoter, and resveratrol modulates MBD2 gene expression, which in turn regulates BRCA1 gene expression, and inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and induces apoptosis in ER+, PR+ & Triple negative breast cancer cells.

A synthetic resveratrol-curcumin hybrid derivative exhibits chemopreventive effects on colon pre-neoplastic lesions by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways

Based on the effectiveness of resveratrol and curcumin in carcinogenesis, (E)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-N'-((E)-4-methoxybenzylidene) acrylohydrazide (PQM-162), curcumin-resveratrol hybrid derivative, was designed by molecular hybridization using a hydrazone functionality as a spacer moiety between pharmacophoric fragments inspired by the parent compounds.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to evaluate the chemopreventive effects of the hybrid against pre-neoplastic lesions induced in the colon of rodents.

METHODS

The doses were determined based on the reduction in DNA damage induced by doxorubicin [15 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)] in peripheral blood of Swiss mice. Doses of 8, 16, 32, and 64 mg/kg b.w. were antimutagenic. For the evaluation of pre-neoplastic lesions in the colon, Wistar rats were treated with PQM-162 at doses of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg b.w. for 6 weeks using three approaches: simultaneous treatment, pre-treatment, and post-treatment. Pre-neoplastic lesions were induced with 1,2 dimethylhydrazine (160 mg/kg b.w.).

KEY FINDINGS

PQM-162 reduced the formation of aberrant crypt foci in the simultaneous treatment and post-treatment. TNF-α and COX-2 mRNA levels decreased, while Nrf2 mRNA levels increased. PQM-162 also reduced the expression of COX-2, PCNA, and β-catenin protein markers and increased Nrf2 expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a chemopreventive potential of PQM-162 in colorectal carcinogenesis, which acts on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell proliferation pathways.

Preparing the pure lignin peroxidase and exploring the effects of chemicals on the activity

Heterogous expression of lignin peroxidase (LiP) from Phanerochaete chrysosporium was performed in by E. coli prokaryotic expression system, and pure LiP was prepared by washing, refolding, and purification. The enzyme activity was measured by the resveratrol oxidation method. The effects of different chemicals on LiP activity were explored by adding different kinds of metal ions, acids/phenols, and surfactants. The optimal pH and temperature are 4.2 and 40 °C. The single-factor screening experiment showed that adding 1 mM Mn2+, 0.1 mM DL-lactic acid, and 2% PEG-4000 had the best promotion effect on the enzyme activity of recombinant LiP, which was 160.61%, 188.46%, and 247.83%, respectively. Further, the synergistic addition of Mn2+ and PEG-4000 achieved the best enzyme activity promotion effect of 277.51%. In addition, the addition of DL-lactic acid alone could promote LiP activity. However, the co-addition of lactic acid with Mn2+ and PEG-4000 contributed only 247.87%, which indicated that the addition of DL-lactic acid had an inhibitory effect when applied synergistically. For the first time, it was found that PEG-4000 increased LiP enzyme activity obviously and had a synergistic effect with Mn2+, serving as a reference for LiP in studies and applications pertaining to lignin breakdown.

Effect of resveratrol on herpesvirus encephalitis: Evidences for its mechanisms of action

BACKGROUND

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-induced herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) has a high mortality rate in clinically immunocompromised patients, while recovered patients often experience neurological sequelae due to neuroinflammation. Nucleoside drugs and nucleoside analogues such as acyclovir and ganciclovir are mainly used in clinical treatment, and the emergence of resistant viral strains makes the development of new anti-herpesvirus encephalitis drugs urgent. Resveratrol is a multifunctional, plant-derived bioactive compound and its antiviral potential is attracting much attention.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the anti-HSV-1 mechanism of resveratrol in microglial cells and in the HSE mouse model.

METHODS

The antiviral effect of resveratrol on HSV-1 infection was investigated by plaque assay, virus titer, immunofluorescence, Western blot and time-of-addition assay. The influence of resveratrol on stimulator of interferon gene (STING)/Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway-mediated neuroinflammation was examined by Western blot, RT-qPCR and ELISA. The interaction between resveratrol and STING/heat shock protein 90 beta (HSP90β) was evaluated by molecular modeling, co-immunoprecipitation, and drug affinity responsive target stability assay. The therapeutic effect of resveratrol on HSE was evaluated in the HSE mouse model by analyzing weight loss, neurodegenerative symptoms and histopathological scores.

RESULTS

Resveratrol inhibited the early process of HSV-1 infection, and interfered with the STING/NF-κB signaling pathway to attenuate HSV-1-induced neuroinflammation and microglial M1 polarization, independent of its classical target Sirtuin1. Mechanistically, resveratrol completely bound to Glu515 and Lys491 of HSP90β, thus disrupting the HSP90β-STING interaction and promoting STING degradation. Resveratrol also significantly alleviated viral encephalitis and neuroinflammation caused by HSV-1 in the HSE mouse model.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol acted as a non-classical HSP90β inhibitor, binding to the STING-HSP90β interaction site to promote STING degradation and attenuate HSV-1-induced encephalitis and neuroinflammation. These findings suggest the alternative strategy of targeting HSP90β and resveratrol-mediated inhibition of HSP90β as a potential antiviral approach.

Effects and safety of resveratrol supplementation in older adults: A comprehensive systematic review

Resveratrol (RSV) has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its potential benefits against chronic diseases. However, its effects and safety in older adults have not been comprehensively studied. This study aimed to determine the effects and safety of RSV supplementation in older adults. MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were comprehensively searched for eligible studies. Studies were enrolled if they were randomized clinical trials and had incorporated RSV supplementation for older adults. Two independent authors conducted the literature search, and eligibility was determined according to the PICOS framework. Study details, intervention specifics, and relevant outcomes were collected during the data collection. The Cochrane RoB-2 tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. This review included 10 studies. The combination of RSV and exercise improved exercise adaptation and muscle function in healthy older adults and physical performance and mobility measures in individuals with functional limitations. RSV showed potential neuroprotective effects in patients with Alzheimer's disease. In overweight individuals, RSV demonstrated a positive impact on cognitive function, but it increased some biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk at high doses. In older adults with diabetes and those with peripheral artery disease (PAD), RSV was not more effective than placebo. No study reported significant adverse events following RSV treatment. RSV can improve various health parameters in age-related health conditions. However, the optimal dosage, long-term effects, and potential interactions with medications still need to be investigated through well-designed RCTs.

Resveratrol improves diabetic kidney disease by modulating the gut microbiota-short chain fatty acids axis in db/db mice

Diabetic kidney disease is associated with the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its metabolites. db/db mice were fed chow diet with or without 0.4% resveratrol for 12 weeks, after which the gut microbiota, faecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and renal fibrosis were analysed. Resveratrol ameliorated the progression of diabetic kidney disease and alleviated tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Further studies showed that gut microbiota dysbiosis was modulated by resveratrol, characterised by the expansion of SCFAs-producing bacteria Faecalibaculum and Lactobacillus, which increased the concentrations of SCFAs (especially acetic acid) in the faeces. Moreover, microbiota transplantation experiments found that alteration of the gut microbiota contributed to the prevention of diabetic kidney disease. Acetate treatment ameliorated proteinuria, glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in db/db mice. Overall, resveratrol improved the progression of diabetic kidney disease by suppressing tubulointerstitial fibrosis, which may be involved, at least in part, in the regulation of the gut microbiota-SCFAs axis.

Resveratrol alleviates inorganic arsenic-induced ferroptosis in chicken brain via activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a well-recognized environmental pollutant that induces severe brain injury in humans and animals. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ferroptotic effects of resveratrol (Res) were demonstrated in multiple animal experiments. In order to investigate the protective effect of Res on iAs-induced chicken brain injury, the 40 chickens (19-d-old, female) brain injury model was established by oral administration of iAs (30 mg/L NaAsO2) for 6 weeks. All chickens had free access to both food and water during the experiment. The biochemical indices, hematoxylin-eosin staining, and related protein levels of oxidative stress, inflammation and ferroptosis were then determined. Our results indicated that Res (1000 mg/kg) alleviated the iAs-induced brain injury after 6 weeks of oral administration, primarily by reducing the interleukin-1β mRNA expression and nuclear factor kappa B and malondialdehyde level, and increasing the antioxidant enzyme activity and the mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Taken together, our study demonstrates that Res effectively inhibits iAs-induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis by mediating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating iAs-induced brain injury in chickens. This is the first time that the amelioration effects of Res on the iAs-induced brain have been investigated from multiple perspectives.

SIRT1 activation ameliorates rhesus monkey liver fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β/smad signaling pathway

TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) dependent enzyme and responsible for deacetylating the proteins. Increasing numbers of reports have shown that the molecular mechanism of SIRT1 as an effective therapeutic target for liver fibrosis but the transformation is not very clear. In the present study, liver fibrotic tissues were screened by staining with Masson, hematoxylin-eosin staining (H&E) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for histopathological observation from the liver biopsy of seventy-seven rhesus monkey, which fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde (PFA) after treatment with high-fat diet (HFD) for two years. And the liver function was further determined by serum biochemical tests. The mRNA levels and protein expression of rat hepatic stellate (HSC-T6) cells were determined after treatment with Resveratrol (RSV) and Nicotinamide (NAM), respectively. The results showed that with the increasing of hepatic fibrosis in rhesus monkeys, the liver function impaired, and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), p-Smad3 (p-Smad3) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was up-regulated, while SIRT1 and Smad7 were down-regulated. Moreover, when stimulated the HSC-T6 with RSV to activate SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the results showed that RSV promoted the expression of smad7, while the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad3 and α-SMA were inhibited. In contrast, when the cells stimulated with NAM to inhibit SIRT1 for 6, 12, and 24 h, the Smad7 expression was decreased, while TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and α-SMA expressions were increased. These results indicate that SIRT1 acts as an important protective factor for liver fibrosis, which may be attributed to inhibiting the signaling pathway of TGF-β/Smad in hepatic fibrosis of the rhesus monkey.

Resveratrol and its metabolites elicit neuroprotection via high-affinity binding to the laminin receptor at low nanomolar concentrations

Resveratrol prevents various neurodegenerative diseases in animal models despite reaching only low nanomolar concentrations in the brain after oral administration. In this study, based on the quenching of intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence and molecular docking, we found that trans-resveratrol, its conjugates (glucuronide and sulfate), and dihydro-resveratrol (intestinal microbial metabolite) bind with high affinities (Kd, 0.2-2 nm) to the peptide G palindromic sequence (near glycosaminoglycan-binding motif) of the 67-kDa laminin receptor (67LR). Preconditioning with low concentrations (0.01-10 nm) of these polyphenols, especially resveratrol-glucuronide, protected neuronal cells from death induced by serum withdrawal via activation of cAMP-mediated signaling pathways. This protection was prevented by a 67LR-blocking antibody, suggesting a role for this cell-surface receptor in neuroprotection by resveratrol metabolites.

Targeting TAOK1 with resveratrol inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo

The worldwide incidence and mortality rates of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have increased over the last decade. Moreover, molecular targets that may benefit the therapeutics of patients with ESCC have not been fully characterized. Our study discovered that thousand and one amino-acid protein kinase 1 (TAOK1) is highly expressed in ESCC tumor tissues and cell lines. Knock-down of TAOK1 suppresses ESCC cell proliferation in vitro and patient-derived xenograft or cell-derived xenograft tumors growth in vivo. Moreover, TAOK1 overexpression promotes ESCC growth in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we identified that the natural small molecular compound resveratrol binds to TAOK1 directly and diminishes the kinase activity of TAOK1. Targeting TAOK1 directly with resveratrol significantly inhibits cell proliferation, induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and suppresses tumor growth in ESCC. Furthermore, the silencing of TAOK1 or the application of resveratrol attenuated the activation of TAOK1 downstream signaling effectors. Interestingly, combining resveratrol with paclitaxel, cisplatin, or 5-fluorouracil synergistically enhanced their therapeutic effects against ESCC. In conclusion, this work illustrates the underlying oncogenic function of TAOK1 and provides a theoretical basis for the application of targeting TAOK1 therapy to the clinical treatment of ESCC.

Resveratrol ameliorates ulcerative colitis by upregulating Nrf2/HO‑1 pathway activity: Integrating animal experiments and network pharmacology

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory condition affecting the rectum and colon. Inflammation and compromisation of the intestinal mucosal barrier are key in UC pathogenesis. Resveratrol (Res) is a naturally occurring polyphenol that exhibits anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Nuclear factor erythroid‑2‑related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO‑1) pathway regulates occurrence and development of numerous types of diseases through anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant activity. However, it is not clear whether Nrf2/HO‑1 pathway is involved in the treatment of Res in UC. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether Res modulates the Nrf2/HO‑1 signaling pathway to attenuate UC in mice. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was used to induce experimental UC in male C57BL/6J mice. Disease activity index (DAI) and hematoxylin eosin (H&E) staning was used to assessed the magnitude of colonic lesions in UC mice. ELISA) was utilized to quantify inflammatory cytokines (IL‑6, IL‑1β, TNF‑α and IL‑10) in serum and colon tissues. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot were used to evaluate the expression levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins [zonula occludens (ZO)‑1 and Occludin] in colon tissues. Pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of Res were derived from TCMSP database. Networkpharmacology was employed to identify the biological function and pharmacological mechanism of Res in the process of relieving UC, and the key target was screened. The binding ability of Res and key target was verified by molecular docking. Finally, the effectiveness of key target was substantiated by Western blot. Res decreased DAI, ameliorated histopathological changes such as crypt loss, disappeatance of the mucosal epithelium, and inflammatory infiltration in mice. Additionally, Res decreased expression of pro‑inflammatory cytokines IL‑6, IL‑1β and TNF‑α and increased anti‑inflammatory factor IL‑10 expression. Res also restored the decreased protein expression of ZO‑1 and occludin after DSS treatment, increasing the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier. The PK properties of Res suggested that Res possesses the therapeutic potential for oral administration. Network pharmacology revealed that Res alleviated UC through anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant pathways, and confirmed that Nrf2 has a high binding affinity with Res and is a key target of Res against UC. Western blotting demonstrated that Res treatment increased the protein levels of Nrf2 and HO‑1. In conclusion, Res treatment activated the Nrf2/HO‑1 pathway to decrease clinical symptoms, inflammatory responses, and intestinal mucosal barrier damage in experimental UC mice.

Resveratrol protects against myocardial ischemic injury in obese mice via activating SIRT3/FOXO3a signaling pathway and restoring redox homeostasis

BACKGROUND

Increasing global overweight and obesity rates not only increase the prevalence of myocardial infarction (MI), but also exacerbate ischemic injury and result in worsened prognosis. Currently, there are no drugs that can reverse myocardial damage once MI has occurred, therefore discovering drugs that can potentially limit the extent of ischemic damage to the myocardium is critical. Resveratrol is a polyphenol known for its antioxidant properties, however whether prolonged daily intake of resveratrol during obesity can protect against MI-induced damage remains unexplored.

METHODS

We established murine models of obesity via high-fat/high-fructose diet, along with daily administrations of resveratrol or vehicle, then performed surgical MI to examine the effects and mechanisms of resveratrol in protecting against myocardial ischemic injury.

RESULTS

Daily administration of resveratrol in obese mice robustly protected against myocardial ischemic injury and improved post-MI cardiac function. Resveratrol strongly inhibited oxidative and DNA damage via activating SIRT3/FOXO3a-dependent antioxidant enzymes following MI, which were completely prevented upon administration of 3-TYP, a selective SIRT3 inhibitor. Hence, the cardioprotective effects of prolonged resveratrol intake in protecting obese mice against myocardial ischemic injury was due to reestablishment of intracellular redox homeostasis through activation of SIRT3/FOXO3a signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide important new evidence that supports the daily intake of resveratrol, especially in those overweight or obese, which can robustly decrease the extent of ischemic damage following MI. Our study therefore provides new mechanistic insight and suggests the therapeutic potential of resveratrol as an invaluable drug in the treatment of ischemic heart diseases.

Resveratrol Promotes Diabetic Wound Healing by Inhibiting Notch Pathway

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication that threatens the daily lives of patients with diabetes and represents a serious challenge to the global health system. Considering that impaired wound healing is the leading cause of DFU, exploring the mechanism of diabetic wound healing is beneficial for improving DFU treatment. Resveratrol (RES) is a native polyphenol with various pharmacological characteristics, and recent studies have indicated an accelerated function of RES in diabetic wound healing. As human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) play a significant role in diabetic wound healing, this study aimed to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of RES in HDFs.

METHODS

To mimic diabetic wound healing in vitro, the HDFs were stimulated with high glucose (HG). Our findings revealed that RES reversed HG-induced suppression of HDF proliferation and migration caused by HG. RES inhibits the Notch signaling pathway. More importantly, we demonstrated that the activation of the Notch pathway abrogated the effects of RES on HG-induced HDFs.

RESULTS

In vivo assays also illustrated that RES contributed to wound healing in diabetic mice by blocking the Notch pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, RES improved diabetic wound healing by targeting the Notch pathway, which offers novel insights into DFU therapy.

Therapeutic effects of resveratrol on epigenetic mechanisms in age-related diseases: A comprehensive review

Recently, various studies have shown that epigenetic changes are associated with aging and age-related diseases. Both animal and human models have revealed that epigenetic processes are involved in aging mechanisms. These processes happen at multiple levels and include histone modification, DNA methylation, and changes in noncoding RNA expression. Consequently, changes in the organization of chromatin and DNA accessibility lead to the regulation of gene expression. With increasing awareness of the pivotal function of epigenetics in the aging process, researchers' attention has been drawn to how these epigenetic changes can be modified to prevent, stop, or reverse aging, senescence, and age-related diseases. Among various agents that can affect epigenetic, polyphenols are well-known phytochemicals found in fruits, vegetables, and plants. Polyphenols are found to modify epigenetic-related mechanisms in various diseases and conditions, such as metabolic disorders, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Resveratrol (RSV) is a member of the stilbene subgroup of polyphenols which is derived from various plants, such as grapes, apples, and blueberries. Therefore, herein, we aim to summarize how RSV affects different epigenetic processes to change aging-related mechanisms. Furthermore, we discuss its roles in age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.

Resveratrol-loaded pH-responsive Mesona chinensis polysaccharides-zein nanoparticles for effective treatment of ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol (Res) is promising food functional factor with favorable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, although its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit extensive application. Therefore, in combination with another promising polysaccharide (Mesona chinensis polysaccharides, MCP), Res-loaded food nanocarriers (ResNPs) were developed to increase its water solubility, bioactivity and targeting properties. ResNPs were then applied to alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis.

RESULTS

Resveratrol can be well encapsulated in MCP-based nanoparticles in an amorphous state, improving its water solubility. ResNPs showed pH-response controlled release behavior in the gastrointestinal tract and increased the enrichment of Res in the colon. In vivo experiments of ResNPs against DSS-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) revealed that ResNPs significantly improved UC symptoms, modulated intestinal inflammation and down-regulated oxidative stress levels compared to free Res. ResNPs also play an positive role with respect to inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway and promoting the expression of tight junction proteins. In addition, ResNPs improved the species composition and relative abundance of intestinal flora in UC mice, which effectively regulated the balance of intestinal flora and promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that MCP-based nanoparticles can effectively improve the solubility of resveratrol and enhance its in vivo bioactivity. Moreover, the present study also provides a new strategy for the prevention and treatment of UC with food polyphenol. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Integrating network pharmacology and renal metabonomics to reveal the protective mechanism of resveratrol on gouty nephropathy

Resveratrol (Res) has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on gouty nephropathy (GN). However, the mechanisms of Res on GN remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of Res on GN. In this study, network pharmacology technology was used to predict the Res targets in the prevention and treatment of GN. Renal metabonomics was used to identify differential metabolites in kidney tissue of GN model rats. Finally, molecular docking technology was used to verify the binding ability of Res to key targets. Metabonomics analysis showed that 24 potentially important metabolites were involved in the prevention and treatment of GN with Res. After exposure to Res, metabolite levels normalized. The network pharmacology analysis showed that 24 key targets were involved in the prevention and treatment of GN disease. According to the metabolite-gene network diagram, we identified two core genes, PTGS1 and PTGS2, and found that both were involved in the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. Molecular docking further verified the affinity of Res binding to PTGS1 and PTGS2. In conclusion, the mechanism of Res against GN may be the regulation of arachidonic acid metabolism through the regulation of PTGS 1 and PTGS 2.

Enhanced in vitro bioavailability of resveratrol-loaded emulsion stabilized by β-lactoglobulin-catechin with excellent antioxidant activity

The study aimed to fabricate β-Lactoglobulin-catechin (β-La-Ca) conjugates as a natural designed antioxidant emulsifier to improve the physicochemical stability of resveratrol emulsion delivery system. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and fluorescence spectroscopy analysis confirmed the formation of conjugates using free radical grafting. The antioxidant ability of emulsion was evaluated by DPPH scavenging activities and ORAC experiments. The emulsion stabilized by β-La-Ca conjugates exhibited strong antioxidant activity with ORAC value of 2541.39 ± 29.58 μmol TE/g, which was significantly higher than that by β-Lactoglobulin alone with 387.96 ± 23.45 μmol TE/g or their mixture with 948.23 ± 32.77 μmol TE/g. During the whole simulated gastrointestinal digestion, emulsion stabilized by β-La-Ca conjugates exhibited excellent oxidative stability that the lipid was mainly digested in the small intestine. This behavior attributed to the greater stability of resveratrol to chemical transformation leading to a higher overall bioavailability in vivo. These results suggested that the β-La-Ca conjugates could be used to fabricate the emulsion-based delivery system to improve the oxidative stability and bioavailability of chemically labile hydrophobic bioactive compounds.

Protective Effects of Resveratrol Against Airway Hyperreactivity, Oxidative Stress, and Lung Inflammation in a Rat Pup Model of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Oxygen therapy provides an important treatment for preterm and low-birth-weight neonates, however, it has been shown that prolonged exposure to high levels of oxygen (hyperoxia) is one of the factors contributing to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) by inducing lung injury and airway hyperreactivity. There is no effective therapy against the adverse effects of hyperoxia. Therefore, this study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that natural phytoalexin resveratrol will overcome hyperoxia-induced airway hyperreactivity, oxidative stress, and lung inflammation. Newborn rats were exposed to hyperoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen - FiO2>95 % O2) or ambient air (AA) for seven days. Resveratrol was supplemented either in vivo (30 mg·kg-1·day-1) by intraperitoneal administration or in vitro to the tracheal preparations in an organ bath (100 mikroM). Contractile and relaxant responses were studied in tracheal smooth muscle (TSM) using the in vitro organ bath system. To explain the involvement of nitric oxide in the mechanisms of the protective effect of resveratrol against hyperoxia, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor - Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), was administered in some sets of experiments. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) levels in the lungs were determined. Resveratrol significantly reduced contraction and restored the impaired relaxation of hyperoxia-exposed TSM (p<0.001). L-NAME reduced the inhibitory effect of resveratrol on TSM contractility, as well as its promotion relaxant effect (p<0.01). Resveratrol preserved the SOD and GPx activities and decreased the expression of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta in hyperoxic animals. The findings of this study demonstrate the protective effect of resveratrol against hyperoxia-induced airway hyperreactivity and lung damage and suggest that resveratrol might serve as a therapy to prevent the adverse effects of neonatal hyperoxia. Keywords: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, Hyperoxia, Airway hyperreactivity, Resveratrol, Pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Resveratrol and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D decrease Lingo-1 levels, and improve behavior in harmaline-induced Essential tremor, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits

Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological disease that impairs motor and cognitive functioning. A variant of the Lingo-1 genetic locus is associated with a heightened ET risk, and increased expression of cerebellar Lingo-1. Lingo-1 has been associated with neurodegenerative processes; however, neuroprotection from ET-associated degeneration can be conferred by the protein Sirt1. Sirt1 activity can be promoted by Resveratrol (Res) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VitD3), and thus these factors may exert neuroprotective properties through a Sirt1 mechanism. As Res and VitD3 are linked to Sirt1, enhancing Sirt1 could counteract the negative effects of increased Lingo-1. Therefore, we hypothesized that a combination of Res-VitD3 in a harmaline injection model of ET would modulate Sirt1 and Lingo-1 levels. As expected, harmaline exposure (10 mg/kg/every other day; i.p.) impaired motor coordination, enhanced tremors, rearing, and cognitive dysfunction. When Res (5 mg/kg/day; i.p.) and VitD3 (0.1 mg/kg/day; i.p.) were given to adult rats (n = 8 per group) an hour before harmaline, tremor severity, rearing, and memory impairment were reduced. Individual treatment with Res and VitD3 decreased Lingo-1 gene expression levels in qPCR assays. Co-treatment with Res and VitD3 increased and decreased Sirt1 and Lingo-1 gene expression levels, respectively, and in some cases, beneficial effects on behavior were noted, which were not seen when Res or VitD3 were individually applied. Taken together, our study found that Res and VitD3 improved locomotor and cognitive deficits, modulated Sirt1 and Lingo-1. Therefore, we would recommend co-treatment of VitD3 and Res to leverage complementary effects for the management of ET symptoms.

Exploiting Natural Niches with Neuroprotective Properties: A Comprehensive Review

Natural products from mushrooms, plants, microalgae, and cyanobacteria have been intensively explored and studied for their preventive or therapeutic potential. Among age-related pathologies, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases) represent a worldwide health and social problem. Since several pathological mechanisms are associated with neurodegeneration, promising strategies against neurodegenerative diseases are aimed to target multiple processes. These approaches usually avoid premature cell death and the loss of function of damaged neurons. This review focuses attention on the preventive and therapeutic potential of several compounds derived from natural sources, which could be exploited for their neuroprotective effect. Curcumin, resveratrol, ergothioneine, and phycocyanin are presented as examples of successful approaches, with a special focus on possible strategies to improve their delivery to the brain.

Resveratrol mediates mitochondrial function through the sirtuin 3 pathway to improve abnormal metabolic remodeling in atrial fibrillation

This study investigated the impact of resveratrol on abnormal metabolic remodeling in atrial fibrillation (AF) and explored potential molecular mechanisms. An AF cell model was established by high-frequency electrical stimulation of HL-1 atrial muscle cells. Resveratrol concentrations were optimized using CCK-8 and flow cytometry. AF-induced increases in ROS and mitochondrial calcium, along with decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and mitochondrial membrane potential, were observed. Resveratrol mitigated these changes and maintained normal mitochondrial morphology. Moreover, resveratrol acted through the SIRT3-dependent pathway, as evidenced by its ability to suppress AF-induced acetylation of key metabolic enzymes. SIRT3 overexpression controls acetylation modifications, suggesting its regulatory role. In conclusion, resveratrol's SIRT3-dependent pathway intervenes in AF-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, presenting a potential therapeutic avenue for AF-related metabolic disorders. This study sheds light on the role of resveratrol in mitigating AF-induced mitochondrial remodeling and highlights its potential as a novel treatment for AF.

Amelioration of endothelial integrity by 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene against high-fat-diet-induced obesity and -associated vasculopathy and myocardial infarction in rats, targeting TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB/iNOS signaling cascade

Exacerbated expression of TLR4 protein (foremost pattern recognition receptor) during obesity could trigger NF-κB/iNOS signaling through linker protein (MyD88), predisposed to an indispensable inflammatory response. The induction of this detrimental cascade leads to myocardial and vascular abnormalities. Molecular docking was studied for protein-ligand interaction between these potential targets and resveratrol. The pre-treatment of resveratrol (20 mg/kg/p.o/per day for ten weeks) was given to investigate the therapeutic effect against HFD-induced obesity and associated vascular endothelial dysfunction (VED) and myocardial infarction (MI) in Wistar rats. In addition to accessing the levels of serum biomarkers for VED and MI, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and histopathology of these tissues were investigated. Lipopolysaccharide (for receptor activation) and protein expression analysis were introduced to explore the mechanistic involvement of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB/iNOS signaling. Assessment of in-silico analysis showed significant interaction between protein and ligand. The involvement of this proposed signaling (TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB/iNOS) was further endorsed by the impact of lipopolysaccharide and protein expression analysis in obese and treated rats. Moreover, resveratrol pre-treated rats showed significantly lowered cardio and vascular damage measured by the distinct down expression of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB/iNOS pathway by resveratrol treatment endorses its ameliorative effect against VED and MI.

Stilbenes: a journey from folklore to pharmaceutical innovation

In modern times, medicine is predominantly based on evidence-based practices, whereas in ancient times, indigenous people relied on plant-based medicines with factual evidence documented in ancient books or folklore that demonstrated their effectiveness against specific infections. Plants and microbes account for 70% of drugs approved by the USFDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Stilbenes, polyphenolic compounds synthesized by plants under stress conditions, have garnered significant attention for their therapeutic potential, bridging ancient wisdom with modern healthcare. Resveratrol, the most studied stilbene, initially discovered in grapes, red wine, peanuts, and blueberries, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including cardiovascular protection, antioxidant effects, anticancer activity, and neuroprotection. Traditional remedies, documented in ancient texts like the Ayurvedic Charak Samhita, foreshadowed the medicinal properties of stilbenes long before their modern scientific validation. Today, stilbenes are integral to the booming wellness and health supplement market, with resveratrol alone projected to reach a market value of 90 million US$ by 2025. However, challenges in stilbene production persist due to limited natural sources and costly extraction methods. Bioprospecting efforts reveal promising candidates for stilbene production, particularly endophytic fungi, which demonstrate high-yield capabilities and genetic modifiability. However, the identification of optimal strains and fermentation processes remains a critical consideration. The current review emphasizes the knowledge of the medicinal properties of Stilbenes (i.e., cardiovascular, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, etc.) isolated from plant and microbial sources, while also discussing strategies for their commercial production and future research directions. This also includes examples of novel stilbenes compounds reported from plant and endophytic fungi.

Resveratrol prevents the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) by controlling hydrogen peroxide levels and nuclear elastase migration

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are defense mechanisms that trap and kill microorganisms and degrade cytokines. However, excessive production, dysregulation of suppression mechanisms, or inefficient removal of NETs can contribute to increased inflammatory response and the development of pathological conditions. Therefore, research has focused on identifying drugs that inhibit or delay the NET release process. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in NET release, we aimed to investigate whether resveratrol (RSV), with a wide range of biological and pharmacological properties, could modulate NET release in response to different stimuli. Thus, human neutrophils were pretreated with RSV and subsequently stimulated with PMA, LPS, IL-8, or Leishmania. Our findings revealed that RSV reduced the release of NETs in response to all tested stimuli. RSV decreased hydrogen peroxide levels in PMA- and LPS-stimulated neutrophils, inhibited myeloperoxidase activity, and altered the localization of neutrophil elastase. RSV inhibition of NET generation was not mediated through A2A or A2B adenosine receptors or PKA. Based on the observed effectiveness of RSV in inhibiting NET release, our study suggests that this flavonoid holds potential as a candidate for treating NETs involving pathologies.

Could nanotechnology improve exercise performance? Evidence from animal studies

This review provides the current state of knowledge regarding the use of nutritional nanocompounds on exercise performance. The reviewed studies used the following nanocompounds: resveratrol-loaded lipid nanoparticles, folic acid into layered hydroxide nanoparticle, redox-active nanoparticles with nitroxide radicals, and iron into liposomes. Most of these nutritional nanocompounds seem to improve performance in endurance exercise compared to the active compound in the non-nanoencapsulated form and/or placebo. Nutritional nanocompounds also induced the following physiological and metabolic alterations: 1) improved antioxidant activity and reduced oxidative stress; 2) reduction in inflammation status; 3) maintenance of muscle integrity; 4) improvement in mitochondrial function and quality; 5) enhanced glucose levels during exercise; 6) higher muscle and hepatic glycogen levels; and 7) increased serum and liver iron content. However, all the reviewed studies were conducted in animals (mice and rats). In conclusion, nutritional nanocompounds are a promising approach to improving exercise performance. As the studies using nutritional nanocompounds were all conducted in animals, further studies in humans are necessary to better understand the application of nutritional nanocompounds in sport and exercise science.

Can Compounds of Natural Origin Be Important in Chemoprevention? Anticancer Properties of Quercetin, Resveratrol, and Curcumin-A Comprehensive Review

Malignant tumors are the second most common cause of death worldwide. More attention is being paid to the link between the body's impaired oxidoreductive balance and cancer incidence. Much attention is being paid to polyphenols derived from plants, as one of their properties is an antioxidant character: the ability to eliminate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, chelate specific metal ions, modulate signaling pathways affecting inflammation, and raise the level and activity of antioxidant enzymes while lowering those with oxidative effects. The following three compounds, resveratrol, quercetin, and curcumin, are polyphenols modulating multiple molecular targets, or increasing pro-apoptotic protein expression levels and decreasing anti-apoptotic protein expression levels. Experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo on animals and humans suggest using them as chemopreventive agents based on antioxidant properties. The advantage of these natural polyphenols is low toxicity and weak adverse effects at higher doses. However, the compounds discussed are characterized by low bioavailability and solubility, which may make achieving the blood concentrations needed for the desired effect challenging. The solution may lie in derivatives of naturally occurring polyphenols subjected to structural modifications that enhance their beneficial effects or work on implementing new ways of delivering antioxidants that improve their solubility and bioavailability.

Effects of Resveratrol on In Vivo Ovarian Cancer Cells Implanted on the Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) of a Chicken Embryo Model

Ovarian cancer poses a significant threat to patients in its advanced stages, often with limited treatment options available. In such cases, palliative management becomes the primary approach to maintaining a reasonable quality of life. Therefore, the administration of any medication that can benefit patients without a curative option holds potential. Resveratrol, a natural compound known for its in vitro anticancer activities, has generated contrasting results in vivo and human studies. In this study, we aimed to assess the anticancer effects of resveratrol on ovarian cancer cells grown on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken embryos. Two ovarian cancer cell lines, OVCAR-8 and SKOV-3, were cultured in collagen scaffolds for four days before being implanted on the CAM of chicken embryos on day 7. Different doses of resveratrol were applied to the CAM every two days for six days. Subsequently, CAM tissues were excised, fixed, and subjected to histological analysis. Some CAM tumours were extracted to analyse proteins through Western blotting. Our findings indicate that specific doses of resveratrol significantly reduce angiogenic activities, pNF-κB levels, and SLUG protein levels by using immunohistochemistry. These results suggest that resveratrol may have the potential to impact the behaviour of ovarian cancer CAM tumours, thereby warranting further consideration as a complementary treatment option for women with incurable ovarian cancer.

Resveratrol relieves HFD-induced insulin resistance in skeletal muscle tissue through antioxidant capacity enhancement and the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol has received much attention due to its beneficial effects including antioxidant activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of resveratrol treatment on oxidative stress and insulin resistance in the skeletal muscle of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed animals.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 30 six-week-old C57BL/6J mice were randomly allocated to three groups (10 animals in each group): The control group in which mice were fed a normal chow diet (NCD); the HFD group in which mice were fed an HFD for 26 weeks; and the HFD-resveratrol group in which HFD was replaced by a resveratrol supplemented-HFD (400 mg/kg diet) after 10 weeks of HFD feeding. At the end of this period, gastrocnemius muscle samples were examined to determine insulin resistance and the oxidative status in the presence of HFD and resveratrol. Resveratrol supplementation in HFD-fed mice reduced body and adipose tissue weight, improved insulin sensitivity, and decreased oxidative stress as indicated by lower malonaldehyde (MDA) levels and higher total antioxidant capacity. The supplement also increased the expression and activity of antioxidative enzymes in gastrocnemius muscle and modulated Nrf2 and Keap1 expression levels.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that resveratrol is effective in improving the antioxidant defense system of the skeletal muscle in HFD-fed mice, indicating its therapeutic potential to combat diseases associated with insulin resistance and oxidative stress.

The impact of resveratrol on the outcome of the in vitro fertilization: an exploratory randomized placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound present in plants and red wine with many potential health benefits. This compound has various anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties and can improve cellular mitochondrial activity. This trial was designed to evaluate the effect on the outcome of IVF of Resveratrol supplementation in women > 35 years with good ovarian reserve (AMH > 1.2 ng/ml). Women were randomized to receive or placebo or Resveratrol (150 mg per day) for three months preceding the ovarian stimulation (OS). All patients were stimulated with a starting dose of recombinant FSH ranging between 150 and 300 IU according to age and ovarian reserve. GnRH antagonist flexible protocol was adopted for pituitary suppression. Triggering was performed with urinary hCG (10.000 IU).

RESULTS

The study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2022 with aa total of 37 cases and 33 controls were recruited. No statistically significant differences in the number of oocytes retrieved, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were observed between women treated with resveratrol and control group. A statistically significant increase in the follicle output rate (FORT) and follicle-to oocyte index (FOI) was observed in women treated with resveratrol-based nutraceutical (0.92 versus 0.77 [p = 0.02], and 0.77 versus 0.64 [p = 0.006], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results from this study indicate that pre-treatment with resveratrol may improve ovarian sensitivity to exogenous FSH, which in turn may decrease the risk of hypo-response to OS in advanced reproductive age women.

The coupling between healthspan and lifespan in Caenorhabditis depends on complex interactions between compound intervention and genetic background

Aging is characterized by declining health that results in decreased cellular resilience and neuromuscular function. The relationship between lifespan and health, and the influence of genetic background on that relationship, has important implications in the development of pharmacological anti-aging interventions. Here we assessed swimming performance as well as survival under thermal and oxidative stress across a nematode genetic diversity test panel to evaluate health effects for three compounds previously studied in the Caenorhabditis Intervention Testing Program and thought to promote longevity in different ways - NP1 (nitrophenyl piperazine-containing compound 1), propyl gallate, and resveratrol. Overall, we find the relationships among median lifespan, oxidative stress resistance, thermotolerance, and mobility vigor to be complex. We show that oxidative stress resistance and thermotolerance vary with compound intervention, genetic background, and age. The effects of tested compounds on swimming locomotion, in contrast, are largely species-specific. In this study, thermotolerance, but not oxidative stress or swimming ability, correlates with lifespan. Notably, some compounds exert strong impact on some health measures without an equally strong impact on lifespan. Our results demonstrate the importance of assessing health and lifespan across genetic backgrounds in the effort to identify reproducible anti-aging interventions, with data underscoring how personalized treatments might be required to optimize health benefits.

Inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by Dietary Antioxidants in THP-1 Macrophages and Sera from Patients with Breast Cancer

Polyphenols, the main antioxidants of diet, have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities. Here, we compared the effects of four polyphenolic compounds on ROS production and on the levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, which represent important pathogenetic factors of breast cancer. THP-1 differentiated macrophages were activated by LPS and simultaneously treated with different doses of a green tea extract (GTE), resveratrol (RSV), curcumin (CRC) and an olive fruit extract (oliplus). By using the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, we found that all of the tested compounds showed antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, GTE, RSV and CRC were able to counteract ROS production induced by H2O2 in THP-1 cells. As assessed by a zymographic analysis of THP-1 supernatants and by an "in-gel zymography" of a pool of sera from patients with breast cancer, the antioxidant compounds used in this study inhibited both the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 through different mechanisms related to their structures and to their ability to scavenge ROS. The results of this study suggest that the used antioxidants could be promising agents for the prevention and complementary treatment of breast cancer and other diseases in which MMPs play a pivotal role.

Resveratrol Improves Hyperuricemia and Ameliorates Renal Injury by Modulating the Gut Microbiota

Resveratrol (RES) has been reported to prevent hyperuricemia (HUA); however, its effect on intestinal uric acid metabolism remains unclear. This study evaluated the impact of RES on intestinal uric acid metabolism in mice with HUA induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Moreover, we revealed the underlying mechanism through metagenomics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and 16S ribosomal RNA analysis. We demonstrated that RES reduced the serum uric acid, creatinine, urea nitrogen, and urinary protein levels, and improved the glomerular atrophy, unclear renal tubule structure, fibrosis, and renal inflammation. The results also showed that RES increased intestinal uric acid degradation. RES significantly changed the intestinal flora composition of HFD-fed mice by enriching the beneficial bacteria that degrade uric acid, reducing harmful bacteria that promote inflammation, and improving microbial function via the upregulation of purine metabolism. The FMT results further showed that the intestinal microbiota is essential for the effect of RES on HUA, and that Lactobacillus may play a key role in this process. The present study demonstrated that RES alleviates HFD-induced HUA and renal injury by regulating the gut microbiota composition and the metabolism of uric acid.

Intranasal Resveratrol Nanoparticles Enhance Neuroprotection in a Model of Multiple Sclerosis

PURPOSE

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol which has a very low bioavailability but whose antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Previously, we reported the oral administration of resveratrol nanoparticles (RNs) elicited a neuroprotective effect in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS, at significantly lower doses than unconjugated resveratrol (RSV) due to enhanced bioavailability. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the intranasal administration of a cell-derived secretome-based therapy at low concentrations leads to the selective neuroprotection of the optic nerve in EAE mice. The current study sought to assess the potential selective efficacy of lower concentrations of intranasal RNs for attenuating optic nerve damage in EAE mice.

METHODS

EAE mice received either a daily intranasal vehicle, RNs or unconjugated resveratrol (RSV) for a period of thirty days beginning on the day of EAE induction. Mice were assessed daily for limb paralysis and weekly for visual function using the optokinetic response (OKR) by observers masked to treatment regimes. After sacrifice at day 30, spinal cords and optic nerves were stained to assess inflammation and demyelination, and retinas were immunostained to quantify retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival.

RESULTS

Intranasal RNs significantly increased RGC survival at half the dose previously shown to be required when given orally, reducing the risk of systemic side effects associated with prolonged use. Both intranasal RSV and RN therapies enhanced RGC survival trends, however, only the effects of intranasal RNs were significant. RGC loss was prevented even in the presence of inflammatory and demyelinating changes induced by EAE in optic nerves.

CONCLUSIONS

The intranasal administration of RNs is able to reduce RGC loss independent of the inflammatory and demyelinating effects on the optic nerve and the spinal cord. The concentration of RNs needed to achieve neuroprotection is lower than previously demonstrated with oral administration, suggesting intranasal drug delivery combined with nanoparticle conjugation warrants further exploration as a potential neuroprotective strategy for the treatment of optic neuritis, alone as well as in combination with glucocorticoids.