Neuroprotective effect of crocin on acrylamide-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells

A Review of Potential Efficacy of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in Cognitive Dysfunction and Seizures

Crocus sativus (saffron) is traditionally used to relieve several ailments. Experimental researches have also investigated applications of saffron and its active constituents for the treatment of a wide spectrum of disorders. This review discusses pharmacological/therapeutic properties of saffron and its main components on memory function, learning ability and seizures, to highlight their merit for alleviating these disorders. An extensive literature review was carried out using various databases including ISI Web of Knowledge, Medline/PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, Biological Abstracts, and Chemical Abstracts. The growing body of evidence showed the value of saffron and its' components, alone, or in combination with the other pharmaceuticals, for improving learning and memory abilities and controlling seizures. These findings may provide pharmacological basis for the use of saffron in cognitive disturbance and epilepsy. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are necessary.

Role of Oxidative Stress, MAPKinase and Apoptosis Pathways in the Protective Effects of Thymoquinone Against Acrylamide-Induced Central Nervous System Toxicity in Rat

The present study evaluated biochemical endpoints characterizing acrylamide (ACR) neurotoxicity in the cortex of rats, following the possible neuroprotective activity of thymoquinone (TQ), an active constituent of Nigella sativa. ACR (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.]) concurrently with TQ (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p.) for 11 days were administered to rats. As positive control, vitamin E was used. After 11 days of injections, narrow beam test (NBT) was performed. The levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured and Western blotting was done for mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKinases) and apoptosis pathways proteins in the rats' cortex. Additionally, Evans blue assay was done to evaluate the integrity of blood brain barrier (BBB). Administration of ACR significantly induced gait abnormalities. A significant decrease and increase in the levels of GSH and MDA was observed in the cortex of ACR-treated rats, respectively. The elevation in the levels of caspases 3 and 9, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) content, and Bax/Bcl-2, P-P38/P38 and P-JNK/JNK ratios accompanied by reduction in myelin basic protein (MBP) content and P-ERK/ERK ratio were noticed in the ACR group. TQ (5 mg/kg) improved gait abnormalities, and restored these changes. ACR affected the integrity of BBB while TQ was able to maintain the integrity of this barrier. TQ reversed the alterations in the protein contents of MAP kinase and apoptosis signaling pathways as well as MBP and GFAP contents, induced by ACR. It protected against ACR-mediated neurotoxicity, partly through its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties.

Natural compound safranal driven inhibition and dis-aggregation of α-synuclein fibrils

Self-assembly of α-synuclein (α-Syn) is linked with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases collectively called as α-synucleiopathies. Therefore, discovering suitable inhibitors for this self-association process of α-Syn is a subject of intense research. In this background, we have demonstrated here that the natural compound, Safranal, delays/inhibits α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation, and we have also characterized its mode of action. The α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation kinetics studies in combination with TEM studies demonstrated that Safranal effectively inhibits α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation. NMR studies revealed that Safranal binds with α-Syn and stabilizes the monomeric protein. ANS fluorescence and CD measurements indicated that Safranal binds to the hydrophobic residues of the protein and causes delay in the formation of β-sheet rich structures which are crucial for the fibrillation to occur. The results obtained from fluorescence quenching, NMR and ANS binding assays, when analysed taking into consideration the molecular structure of Safranal provide valuable insights into the mechanism of inhibition of α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation. We infer that inhibition of α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation is primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions between Safranal and the protein. Further, Safranal is also seen to dis-aggregates pre-formed α-Syn fibrils. These findings implicate that Safranal could become a potent therapeutic intervention in Parkinson's disease and other protein aggregation related disorders.

Therapeutic potency of crocin in the treatment of inflammatory diseases: Current status and perspective

Crocin is the major component of saffron, which is used in phytomedicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes, fatty liver, depression, menstruation disorders, and, of special interest in this review, inflammatory diseases. Promising selective anti-inflammatory properties of this pharmacological active component have been observed in several studies. Saffron has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory properties against several inflammatory diseases and can be used as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases either alone or in combination with other standard anti-inflammatory agents. This review summarizes the protective role of saffron and its pharmacologically active constituents in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases including digestive diseases, dermatitis, asthma, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases for a better understanding and hence a better management of these diseases.

Thermo-responsive polymers: Applications of smart materials in drug delivery and tissue engineering

Synthetic polymers are attracting great attention in the last decades for their use in the biomedical field as nanovectors for controlled drug delivery, hydrogels and scaffolds enabling cell growth. Among them, polymers able to respond to environmental stimuli have been recently under growing consideration to impart a "smart" behavior to the final product, which is highly desirable to provide it with a specific dynamic and an advanced function. In particular, thermo-responsive polymers, materials able to undergo a discontinuous phase transition or morphological change in response to a temperature variation, are among the most studied. The development of the so-called controlled radical polymerization techniques has paved the way to a high degree of engineering for the polymer architecture and properties, which in turn brought to a plethora of sophisticated behaviors for these polymers by simply switching the external temperature. These can be exploited in many different fields, from separation to advanced optics and biosensors. The aim of this review is to critically discuss the latest advances in the development of thermo-responsive materials for biomedical applications, including a highly controlled drug delivery, mediation of cell growth and bioseparation. The focus is on the structural and design aspects that are required to exploit such materials for cutting-edge applications in the biomedical field.

Effect of acrylamide on BEAS-2B normal human lung cells: Cytotoxic, oxidative, apoptotic and morphometric analysis

Due to the broad toxic relevance of acrylamide, many measures have been taken since the 1900s. These measures increased day by day when acrylamide was discovered in foods in 2002, and its toxic spectrum was found to be wider than expected. Therefore, in some countries, the products with higher acrylamide content were restricted. On the other hand, the effects of acrylamide on the respiratory system cells have yet to be well understood. In this study, we aimed at investigating the effect of acrylamide on lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. Initially, the cytotoxic effect of acrylamide on BEAS-2B was determined by MTT assay. Then, cellular oxidative stress was measured. Flow cytometry analysis was conducted for Annexin-V and caspase 3/7. Furthermore, Bax, Bcl-2 and Nrf-2 proteins were evaluated by immunocytochemistry. Finally, acrylamide-induced cellular morphological changes were observed under confocal and TEM microscopes. According to MTT results, the IC50 concentration of acrylamide was 2.00 mM. After acrylamide treatment, oxidative stress increased dose-dependently. Annexin V-labelled apoptotic cells and caspase 3/7 activity were higher than untreated cells in acrylamide-treated cells. Immunocytochemical examination revealed a marked decrease in Bcl-2, an increase in Bax and Nrf-2 protein staining upon acrylamide treatment. Furthermore, in confocal and TEM microscopy, apoptotic hallmarks were pronounced. In the present study, acrylamide was suggested to display anti-proliferative activity, decrease viability, induce apoptosis and oxidative stress and cause morphological changes in BEAS-2B cells.

Effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and endurance training on mitochondrial biogenesis, endurance capacity, inflammation, antioxidant, and metabolic biomarkers in Wistar rats

We aimed to evaluate the effect of saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) treatment on endurance capacity, mitochondrial biogenesis, inflammation, antioxidant, and metabolic biomarkers in Wistar rats. Forty male rats were allocated equally into four groups: Saffron, Exercise and Saffron, Exercise and Placebo, and Placebo. Endurance training was accomplished on a specified rodent motor-driven treadmill. Running to fatigue test and also metabolic and molecular indices were measured after eight weeks of intervention. mtDNA copy number and NRF-1 gene expression increased significantly in the Ex + S group compared to the exercised and control group (p < 0.05). Endurance capacity time increased in the Ex + S group compared to the Ex group (p < 0.05). Malondialdehyde, CPK, AST, and IL-6 decreased and antioxidant parameters including Glutathione peroxidase and Glutathione increased in the Ex + S group compared to exercised rats (p < 0.01). Saffron enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis, decreased oxidative stress, inflammation, and modulated metabolic biomarkers in exercised rats. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The influence of potential nutrient factors on exercise performance has reached much attention in recent years. Athletes require an appropriate sport supplement to reimburse their fatigue and improve their resilience. Saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) is a well-known spice in the food trade which is quite popular around the world by giving a desirable taste to food. In an experimental study, we showed that saffron extract treatment during endurance training could improve endurance capacity by modulating several metabolic and genomic factors. Therefore, by relying on the results of this study and the positive effects of saffron published in previous studies, saffron could be added to sport beverages and supplements to enhance an athlete's performance.

Protective effect of Mori Cortex radicis extract against high glucose-induced oxidative stress in PC12 cells

This study was undertaken to investigate the neuroprotective effect of an ethanolic extract of Mori Cortex radicis (MCR) against high glucose (HG)-induced oxidative damage in PC12 cells. Cell cytotoxicity was examined using MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays. To examine the antioxidative effects, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and the activities of antioxidant enzymes were measured. The expressions of apoptosis-associated proteins were assessed. MCR was found to increase the viabilities of HG-induced PC12 cells and to inhibit ROS and MDA production and to promote antioxidative enzyme activities. Furthermore, MCR reduced apoptosis by upregulating p-Akt and Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reducing cytochrome c level. The main flavonoids in MCR were identified by HPLC to be kuwanon G and morusin. These results suggest the antioxidative effects of MCR protect against HG-induced oxidative stress and that MCR has potential therapeutic use for the prevention and treatment of diabetic neuro-degeneration.

Protective effects of ethyl gallate on H2O2-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in PC12 cells

Oxidative stress has been suggested to play an important role in neuronal injury. Ethyl gallate (EG) is the ethyl ester of gallic acid which has been acknowledged as an antioxidant. We previously demonstrated that EG effectively inhibited H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity and decreased the ROS levels in PC12 cells, while the relevant mechanisms of action of this compound remain largely uncharacterized. The present study was carried out in an attempt to clarify the underlying mechanisms of EG against H₂O₂-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells. EG pretreatment attenuated H₂O₂-induced mitochondrial dysfunction as indicated by the decreased caspase-9/-3 activation, PARP cleavage, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) depletion, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, cytochrome c release and ROS overproduction. Furthermore, EG treatment resulted in nuclear translocation of Nrf2 along with increased expression of ARE-dependent cytoprotective genes, such as γ-GCS and NQO1, which indicated EG as an Nrf2 pathway activator. Silencing of Nrf2 signaling by siRNA abrogated the protective effects offered by EG on H₂O₂-induced PC12 cells injury, which suggested the important role of Nrf2 pathway in the protection of EG against oxidative stress induced PC12 cell apoptosis. These results taken together indicated that EG protects PC12 cells against H₂O₂-induced cell mitochondrial dysfunction possibly through activation of Nrf2 pathway. EG might be a potential candidate for further preclinical study aimed at the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Neuroprotective Effects of Thymoquinone in Acrylamide-Induced Peripheral Nervous System Toxicity Through MAPKinase and Apoptosis Pathways in Rat

Acrylamide (ACR) is extensively used in industrial areas and has been demonstrated to induce neurotoxicity via oxidative stress and apoptosis. In this study, we assessed the probable protective effects of thymoquinone (TQ), an active constituent of Nigella sativa, against ACR-induced neurotoxicity. ACR (50 mg/kg, i.p., for 11 days) and TQ (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p., for 11 days) were administered to rats. On 12th day, gait score was examined and rats were sacrificed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents were determined in sciatic nerve. Furthermore, western blotting was conducted. The exposure of rats to ACR caused severe gait disabilities. The MDA and GSH contents were increased and decreased, respectively. ACR decreased P-ERK/ERK ratio and myelin basic protein (MBP) content, but significantly increased P-JNK/JNK, P-P38/P38, Bax/Bcl-2 ratios and caspase 3 and 9 levels. Concurrently administration of TQ (5 and 10 mg/kg) with ACR, prevented gait abnormalities and meaningfully reduced MDA and elevated the GSH contents. Furthermore, TQ (5 mg/kg) elevated the P-ERK/ERK ratio and MBP content while reduced the P-JNK/JNK, P-P38/P38 ratios and apoptotic markers. MAP kinase and apoptosis signaling pathways were involved in ACR-induced neurotoxicity in rat sciatic nerve and TQ significantly reduced ACR neurotoxicity. TQ afforded neuroprotection, in part, due to its anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

Oral crocetin administration suppressed refractive shift and axial elongation in a murine model of lens-induced myopia

Increased global incidence of myopia necessitates establishment of therapeutic approaches against its progression. To explore agents which may control myopia, we screened 207 types of natural compounds and chemical reagents based on an activity of a myopia suppressive factor, early growth response protein 1 (Egr-1) in vitro. Among the candidates, crocetin showed the highest and dose-dependent activation of Egr-1. For in vivo analysis, experimental myopia was induced in 3-week-old C57BL/6 J mice with −30 diopter (D) lenses for 3 weeks. Animals were fed with normal or mixed chow containing 0.003% (n = 19) and 0.03% (n = 7) of crocetin during myopia induction. Refraction and axial length were measured at 3-week-old and the 6-week-old with an infrared photorefractor and a SD-OCT system. Compared to controls (n = 14), crocetin administration showed a significant smaller change of refractive errors (−13.62 ± 8.14 vs +0.82 ± 5.81 D for 0.003%, p < 0.01, −2.00 ± 4.52 D for 0.03%, p < 0.01) and axial elongation (0.27 ± 0.03 vs 0.22 ± 0.04 mm for 0.003%, p < 0.01, 0.23 ± 0.05 mm for 0.03%, p < 0.05). These results suggest that a dietary factor crocetin may have a preventive effect against myopia progression.

Saffron; An updated review on biological properties with special focus on cardiovascular effects

OBJECTIVE

Saffron as a natural product has long been used to impede and treat different disorders including cardiovascular disease (CVDs). Stigma is the most principal part of saffron. Various compounds such as carotenoids and flavonoids are the essential components of saffron stigma. The health benefits of saffron have been shown in previous studies; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the mechanistic aspects of its cardiovascular-health properties. This current comprehensive review focuses on the medicinal applications of saffron, and then the new findings regarding its cardiovascular-health effects and various cellular and molecular mechanisms of action will be debated.

METHODS

The literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library was performed for all comparative studies since 2000-2018 with the limitations of the English language.

RESULTS

The results provided new evidence about antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti- atherogenic, anti- apoptotic, anti- hypertensive, and hypolipidemic effects of saffron. Pharmacological effects of saffron are due to a number of ingredients contained within this spice, including safranal, crocetin and crocins.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study concludes that saffron with wide range of usefulness in medicine may be the potent candidate in the process of new drug production for the treatment of CVDs.

The Relaxant Effect of Crocin on Rat Tracheal Smooth Muscle and Its Possible Mechanisms

Crocin, a component of saffron, showed hypotensive activity which is perhaps due to vascular smooth muscle relaxant effect. The relaxant effects of saffron on tracheal smooth muscle also could be due to its constituent, crocin. In the present study, the relaxant effects of crocin and its possible mechanisms on rat tracheal smooth muscle were investigated. The relaxant effects of three cumulative concentrations of crocin (30, 60, and 120 μM) or theophylline (0.2, 0.4, 0.6 mM) as positive control were examined on pre-contracted tracheal smooth muscle by methacholine or KCl in non-incubated or incubated conditions with different agents including atropine, chlorpheniramine, indomethacin, diltiazem, glibenclamide, and propranolol. In non-incubated tracheal smooth muscle, crocin showed significant relaxant effects on KCl induced muscle contraction (p < 0.001 for two higher concentrations). However, crocin did not show relaxant effect on methacholine induced tissue contraction. In incubated tissues with chlorpheniramine, indomethacin, diltiazem and propranolol, there were no significant differences in the relaxant effects of crocin between non-incubated and incubated tissues. However, the relaxant effects of crocin obtained in incubated tissues with atropine and glibenclamide were significant lower than non-incubated tracheal smooth muscle (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The EC50 value obtained in incubated tissue with propranolol was significantly increased. Theophylline showed significant relaxant effect on both KCl and methacholine induced tissue contraction (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). A relatively potent relaxant effect of crocin on tracheal smooth muscle, lower than that of theophylline was shown. Muscarinic receptor blocking, potassium channels opening and ß2-adrenoreceptors stimulation were also suggested as possible mechanisms of this effect.

Acrylamide aggravates cognitive deficits at night period via the gut-brain axis by reprogramming the brain circadian clock

Imbalance of the circadian rhythm leads to pathologies including obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, and even cancer. Acrylamide (ACR) is a chronic neurotoxin which can lead to carcinogenicity, reproduction toxicity, teratogenicity, and neurotoxicity. The aim of this study was to reveal a potential mechanism of ACR-triggered neurotoxicity related to circadian clock in mice brain. For this purpose, 80 3-month-old C57/BL6J mice were randomly divided into two groups (n = 40/group): the control group was fed a standard diet (AIN-93M) with pure water, and the ACR group was fed a standard diet (AIN-93M) with 0.003% ACR in drinking water for 16 weeks. In the current study, ACR treatment induced circadian disorder and suppressed the circadian-related protein expressions in mice brain. Furthermore, ACR diet aggravated the cognitive dysfunction and spatial memory loss at night phase. Consistent with these results, ACR caused cognitive defects in the night period by down-regulating the ERK/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB)/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling pathways and the expression of synaptosomal-related protein SNAP-25 and PSD-95. Moreover, excessive autophagy phenomenon also occurred in mice hippocampus in the night phase under ACR administration. Of note, ACR stimulated the brain inflammatory reaction via affecting the intestinal barrier integrity and increasing the levels of circulating LPS, IL-1β and TNF-α. Above all, the present research discovered that ACR is a potential circadian-depressing compound that influences cognitive function in mice brain.

Pharmacokinetic Properties of Saffron and its Active Components

Saffron as a medicinal plant has many therapeutic effects. Phytochemical studies have reported that saffron is composed of at least four active ingredients which include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin and safranal. The carotenoids of saffron are sensitive to oxygen, light, heat and enzymatic oxidization. However, regulation of these factors is required for saffron quality. Some pharmacologic effects of saffron and its active compounds include cardioprotective, neuroprotective, memory enhancer, antidepressant and anxiolytic. Among more than 150 chemicals of saffron, the most biologically active components are two carotenoids including crocin and crocetin. Most of the pharmacokinetic studies are related to these compounds. The pharmacokinetic studies have shown that crocin is not available after oral administration in blood circulation. Crocin is converted to crocetin in intestine but after intravenous injection, the level of crocetin in plasma is low. Crocetin can distribute in different tissues because of weak interaction between crocetin and albumin. Also it can penetrate blood-brain barrier and reach CNS by passive transcellular diffusion; thus it can be effective in neurodegenerative disorders. The large portion of crocin is eliminated via feces.

Crocin Inhibits Apoptosis and Astrogliosis of Hippocampus Neurons Against Methamphetamine Neurotoxicity via Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Mechanisms

Methamphetamine (METH) is a stimulant drug, which can cause neurotoxicity and increase the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. The mechanisms of acute METH intoxication comprise intra-neuronal events including oxidative stress, dopamine oxidation, and excitotoxicity. According to recent studies, crocin protects neurons by functioning as an anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic compound. Accordingly, this study aimed to determine if crocin can protect against METH-induced neurotoxicity. Seventy-two male Wistar rats that weighed 260-300 g were randomly allocated to six groups of control (n = 12), crocin 90 mg/kg group (n = 12), METH (n = 12), METH + crocin 30 mg/kg (n = 12), METH + crocin 60 mg/kg (n = 12), and METH + crocin 90 mg/kg (n = 12). METH neurotoxicity was induced by 40 mg/kg of METH in four injections (e.g., 4 × 10 mg/kg q. 2 h, IP). Crocin was intraperitoneally (IP) injected at 30 min, 24 h, and 48 h after the final injection of METH. Seven days after METH injection, the rats' brains were removed for biochemical assessment using the ELISA technique, and immunohistochemistry staining was used for caspase-3 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) detection. Crocin treatment could significantly increase superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05) and glutathione (P < 0.01) levels and reduce malondialdehyde and TNF-α in comparison with the METH group (P < 0.05). Moreover, crocin could significantly decline the level of caspase-3 and GFAP-positive cells in the CA1 region (P < 0.01). According to the results, crocin exerts neuroprotective effects on METH neurotoxicity via the inhibition of apoptosis and neuroinflammation.

Acrylamide exerts its cytotoxicity in NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells by apoptosis

OBJECTIVE

Acrylamide is a chemical utilized in various industries, and many studies have demonstrated its toxicity. The NIH/3T3 mouse embryonic cell line is the standard cell line of fibroblasts, which have a pivotal role with their versatile functions in the body. However, only two studies have attempted to investigate the effect of acrylamide on these crucial cells. To fill this knowledge gap, we aimed to determine the effects of acrylamide on NIH/3T3 cells.

METHOD

First, we performed the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay and calculated the IC₅₀ dose of acrylamide. Then, we treated cells with the IC₅₀ dose of acrylamide for 24 h and determined whether the dominant death mode of NIH/3T3 cells was apoptosis or necrosis by annexin V and caspase 3/7 assays. Finally, we performed confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis for observing the morphological alterations.

RESULTS

MTT assay results showed that acrylamide treatment reduced the viability of NIH/3T3 cells dose-dependently and that the IC₅₀ of acrylamide was 6.73 mM. Based on annexin V and caspase 3/7 assays, the dominant death mode of NIH/3T3 cells was determined to be apoptosis. Also, caspase 3/7 activities of the acrylamide-treated NIH/3T3 cells were three times greater than those of the untreated NIH/3T3 cells. Furthermore, we observed membrane blebbing, nuclear chromatin clumping, and cytoplasmic vacuolization in TEM analysis and apparent apoptotic bodies, nuclear fragmentations, and condensations in confocal microscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our results suggested that the IC₅₀ of acrylamide against NIH/3T3 cells for 24 h was 6.73 mM and that acrylamide exerted its cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects on these cells mainly via apoptosis.

DBA-induced caspase-3-dependent apoptosis occurs through mitochondrial translocation of cyt-c in the rat hippocampus

Dibromoacetic acid (DBA), a by-product of disinfection, develops in drinking water during chlorination or ozonation processes. Water intake is the main source of DBA exposure in humans, which is potentially neurotoxic. The present study investigated the neurotoxic effects of DBA by assessing the behavioral and biochemical characteristics of Sprague Dawley rats intragastrically treated with DBA at concentrations of 20, 50 and 125 mg kg^-1 body weight for 28 consecutive days. The results indicated that animal weight gain and food consumption were not significantly affected by DBA. However, shuttle box tests showed increases in mistake frequency and reaction latency between the control and high-dose group. We found significant changes in hippocampal neurons by histomorphological observation. Additionally, biochemical analysis indicated enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in disruption of cellular antioxidant defense systems including decreased mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and release of cytochrome c (cyt-c) from mitochondria into the cytosol, which can induce neuronal apoptosis. Furthermore, the increase of cyt-c in the cytosol enhanced caspase-3 and caspase-9 activity, which was confirmed by poly ADP-ribose polymerase-1 (PARP-1) cleavage to its signature fragment of 85 kDa and decreased levels of protein kinase C-δ (PKC-δ) in the hippocampus. Meanwhile, DBA treatment caused differential modulation of apoptosis-associated proteins and mRNAs for phosphorylated apoptosis signal regulating kinase 1 (p-ASK-1), phosphorylated c-jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), cyt-c, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-9 and cleaved caspase-3 accompanied by DNA damage. Taken together, these data indicate that DBA may induce neurotoxicity via caspase-3-dependent apoptosis involving mitochondrial translocation of cyt-c in the rat hippocampus.

L-Cysteine Partially Protects Against Acrylamide-Induced Testicular Toxicity

BACKGROUND

Acrylamide is a widespread substance having many areas of utilization. Besides, it also forms a part of high-temperature processed starchy foods. To date, numerous in vivo and in vitro studies have documented that acrylamide has toxic effects on various organ systems.

AIMS

To determine the potential protective effect of L-cysteine on acrylamide-induced testicular toxicity.

STUDY DESIGN

Animal experimentation.

METHODS

We randomly divided 28 rats into four groups as control (0.9% saline), L-cysteine (150 mg/kg), acrylamide (40 mg/kg) and acrylamide + L-cysteine. After a 10-day intraperitoneal injection period, we euthanized the animals, recorded their body and testis weights, collected blood samples for serum testosterone measurement, and excised testes for histopathological and morphometric evaluation. Besides, immunohistochemical scoring of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and bax proteins was performed.

RESULTS

Acrylamide reduced body (p<0.01) and testis weights (p<0.05), seminiferous tubule diameter (p<0.001) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression (p<0.05), while it increased bax protein expression (p<0.01) and the percentage of seminiferous tubules that contain multinucleated giant cells (p<0.001), but did not significantly change serum testosterone levels when compared to control. L-cysteine administered with acrylamide decreased multinucleated giant cell number (p<0.001) and reversed the reduced proliferating cell nuclear antigen positivity (p<0.001), but did not restore other parameters compared with the acrylamide alone-treated group.

CONCLUSION

Taking into account the dose and duration employed, the present study concluded that L-cysteine partially protects testis against acrylamide-induced toxic effects.

Crocus sativus a natural food coloring and flavoring has potent anti-tumor properties

BACKGROUND

Saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., is a highly valued agricultural product that is used mainly as a food coloring and flavoring agent. Three main secondary metabolites of Crocus sativus including crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are responsible for the color, the bitter taste and for the odor and aroma, respectively. As a component of traditional medicine, saffron has been utilized as a medicinal herb for treating various ailments including cramps, asthma, liver disease, menstruation disorders, pain, and in the pathogenesis of cancer.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

To summarize the recent published data on the chemo-preventive properties of Crocus sativus in cancer treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a non-systematic review of the literature.

METHODS

A search of English-language literature was performed using Scopus, EMBASE and PubMed. We applied no restriction in time. Articles were searched using the keywords "Lung", "breast", "skin", "prostate", "leukemia", "cancer", "neoplasm", "tumor", "malignancy", "saffron", "crocus sativus", "crocin", "crocetin", "picrocrocin", and "safranal".

RESULTS

Saffron has been reported to exert anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, skin cancer and prostate cancer. This appears to be via various mechanisms including: the induction of apoptosis, arresting cell cycle progression, suppressing expression of matrix metalloproteinase, modulatory effects on some phase II detoxifying enzymes and decreasing expression of inflammatory molecules are potential mechanisms of saffron-induced anticancer effects.

CONCLUSION

Saffron possesses potent anti-tumor properties and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.

Preventive effects of crocin on neuronal damages induced by D-galactose through AGEs and oxidative stress in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y)

Objective

D-galactose (D-gal) is well-known agent to induce aging process. In the present study, we selected crocin, the main constituent of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), against D-gal-induced cytotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells.

Methods

Pretreated cells with crocin (25–500 μM, 24 h) were exposed to D-gal (25–400 mM, 48 h). The MTT assay was used for determination cell viability. Dichlorofluorescin diacetate assay (DCF-DA) and senescence associated β-galactosidase staining assay (SA-β-gal) were used to evaluate the generation of reactive oxygen species and beta-galactosidase as an aging marker, respectively. Also advanced glycation end products (AGEs) expression which is known as the main mechanism of age-related diseases was measured by western blot analysis.

Results

The findings of our study showed that treatment of cells with D-gal (25–400 mM) for 48h decreased cell viability concentration dependency. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels which are known as main factors in age-related diseases increased from 100 ± 8% in control group to 132 ± 22% in D-gal (200 mM) treated cells for 48h. The cytotoxic effects of D-gal decreased with 24h crocin pretreatment of cells. The cell viability at concentrations of 100 μM, 200 μM and 500 μM increased and ROS production decreased at concentrations of 200 and 500 μM to 111.5 ± 6% and 108 ± 5%, respectively. Also lysosomal biomarker of aging and carboxymethyl lysine (CML) expression as an AGE protein, significantly increased in D-gal 200 mM group after 48h incubation compare to control group. Pretreatment of SHSY-5Y cells with crocin (500 μM) before adding D-gal significantly reduced aging marker and CML formation.

Conclusion

Treatment of SH-SY5Y cells with crocin before adding of D-gal restored aging effects of D-gal concentration dependency. These findings indicate that crocin has potent anti-aging effects through inhibition of AGEs and ROS production.

A comprehensive review on regulatory effects of crocin on ischemia/reperfusion injury in multiple organs

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury affects o₂-dependent organs including liver, kidneys, heart, brain, and intestine. I/R injury is described as the cellular injury in an organ caused by ischemia and then further aggravated during the reperfusion due to intracellular alterations. It is a process that happens in clinical settings such as organ transplantation, reperfusion after thrombolytic therapy, and coronary angioplasty. Crocus sativus L. known as saffron used in folk medicine for its beneficial effects. It contains multiple bioactive compounds including the crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Crocin, a water-soluble carotenoid has antitumor, radical scavenging, anti hyperlipidemia and memory improving effects. Moreover, crocin has antioxidant, and protective effects on I/R models in rats at various organs such as heart, brain, kidney, stomach, liver, and kidney as described in detail in this review.

Effects of acrylamide on oxidant/antioxidant parameters and CYP2E1 expression in rat pancreatic endocrine cells

Oxidative stress is one of the principle mechanism of acrylamide-induced toxicity. Acrylamide is metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) to glycidamide or by direct conjugation with glutathione. Bearing in mind that up to now the effects of acrylamide on oxidative stress status and CYP2E1 level in endocrine pancreas have not been studied we performed qualitative and quantitative immunohistochemical evaluation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), catalase (CAT) and CYP2E1 expression in islets of Langerhans of rats subchronically treated with 25 or 50mg/kg bw of acrylamide. Since the majority of cells (>80%) in rodent islets are beta cells, in parallel studies, we employed the Rin-5F beta cell line to examine effects of acrylamide on redox status and the activity of CAT, SOD and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), their gene expression, and CYP2E1, NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and iNOS expression. Immunohistochemically stained pancreatic sections revealed that acrylamide induced increase of iNOS and decrease of CYP2E1 protein expression, while expression of antioxidant enzymes was not significantly affected by acrylamide in islets of Langerhans. Analysis of Mallory-Azan stained pancreatic sections revealed increased diameter of blood vessels lumen in pancreatic islets of acrylamide-treated rats. Increase in the GST activity, lipid peroxidation and nitrite level, and decrease in GSH content, CAT and SOD activities was observed in acrylamide-exposed Rin-5F cells. Level of mRNA was increased for iNOS, SOD1 and SOD2, and decreased for GSTP1, Nrf2 and CYP2E1 in acrylamide-treated Rin-5F cells. This is the first report of the effects of acrylamide on oxidant/antioxidant parameters and CYP2E1 expression in pancreatic endocrine cells.

Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action

BACKGROUND

Depression and anxiety are two common mental health problems with high economic and social costs. Currently, a number of treatments are available for patients with depression and anxiety disorders such as psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy and antidepressant drugs. Due to safety concerns, adverse effects, limited efficacy and low tolerability associated with many antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications, identification of novel agents with less toxicity and more favorable outcome is warranted.

METHODS

The current article provides a non-systematic review of the available in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidence on the efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action of saffron and its active ingredients in the treatment of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.

RESULTS

Several interesting data have been reported about the antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties of saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., in several preclinical and clinical studies. In particular, a number of clinical trials demonstrated that saffron and its active constituents possess antidepressant properties similar to those of current antidepressant medications such as fluoxetine, imipramine and citalopram, but with fewer reported side effects.

CONCLUSION

Saffron may exert antidepressant effects and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.

Systems pharmacology analysis of synergy of TCM: an example using saffron formula

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) follows the principle of formulae, in which the pharmacological activity of a single herb can be enhanced or potentiated by addition of other herbs. Nevertheless, the involved synergy mechanisms in formulae remain unknown. Here, a systems-based method is proposed and applied to three representative Chinese medicines in compound saffron formula (CSF): two animal spices (Moschus, Beaver Castoreum), and one herb Crocus sativus which exert synergistic effects for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). From the formula, 42 ingredients and 66 corresponding targets are acquired based on the ADME evaluation and target fishing model. The network relationships between the compounds and targets are assembled with CVDs pathways to elucidate the synergistic therapeutic effects between the spices and the herbs. The results show that different compounds of the three medicines show similar curative activity in CVDs. Additionally, the active compounds from them shared CVDs-relevant targets (multiple compounds-one target), or functional diversity targets but with clinical relevance (multiple compounds-multiple targets-one disease). Moreover, the targets of them are largely enriched in the same CVDs pathways (multiple targets-one pathway). These results elucidate why animal spices and herbs can have pharmacologically synergistic effects on CVDs, which provides a new way for drug discovery.

A comprehensive review of the pharmacological potential of Crocus sativus and its bioactive apocarotenoids

Crocus sativus is an herbaceous plant that belongs to family Iridaceae. It is commonly known as saffron and has been used for medicinal purposes since many centuries in India and other parts of the world. Saffron of commercial importance comprises of dried stigmas of the plant and is rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and carotenoids. Carotenoids represent the main components of saffron and their cleavage results in the formation of apocarotenoids such as crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Studies conducted during the past two decades have revealed the immense therapeutic potential of saffron. Most of the therapeutic properties are due to the presence of unique apocarotenoids having strong free radical scavenging activity. The mode of action of these apocarotenoids could be: modulatory effects on detoxifying enzymes involved in combating oxidative stress, decreasing telomerase activity, increased the proapoptotic effect, inhibition of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, and by a strong binding capacity of crocetin with tRNA. The present review focuses on the therapeutic role of saffron and its bio oxidative cleavage products and also highlights the possible molecular mechanism of action. The findings reported in this review describes the wide range of applications of saffron and attributes its free radical scavenging nature the main property which makes this spice a potent chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of various diseases.

Taurine attenuates acrylamide-induced apoptosis via a PI3K/AKT-dependent manner

As a potent neurotoxic agent, acrylamide (ACR) is formed in food processing at higher temperature. Taurine (TAU), a nonessential amino acid, is used to cure neurodegenerative disorders, followed by activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway. In this article, we certified that antiapoptotic efficacy of TAU in vivo and vitro. ACR-treated rats received TAU by drinking water 2 weeks after ACR intoxication. The results showed that in treated rats, TAU alleviated ACR-induced neuronal apoptosis, which was associated with the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. TAU attenuated apoptosis caused by ACR through observing terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells, measure of protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase 3 activity. TAU-induced antiapoptotic effect is PI3K/AKT-dependent, which was proved in ACR-intoxicated ventral spinal cord 4.1 cells in the presence of AKT inhibitor, MK-2206. Therefore, our results demonstrated that TAU-attenuated ACR-induced apoptosis in vivo through a PI3K/AKT-dependent manner provided new sights in the molecular mechanism of TAU protection against ACR-induced neurotoxicity.

Protective effect of crocin on BPA-induced liver toxicity in rats through inhibition of oxidative stress and downregulation of MAPK and MAPKAP signaling pathway and miRNA-122 expression

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an artificial environmental endocrine disrupting chemical and commonly used as a monomer of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. The aim of the present study is to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of crocin, a constituent of saffron, against BPA-induced liver toxicity. We showed that treatment of male Wistar rats with 0.5 mg/kg BPA for 30 days increased the level of 8-isoprostane, decreased the level of reduced glutathione, elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, triglyceride, and glucose, and induced periportal inflammation. Western blot results revealed that BPA increased the phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), and mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase (MAPKAPK), but not p38. BPA also reduced the Akt signaling activation and upregulated microRNA (miR-122) expression. Moreover, we showed here that crocin 20 mg/kg administration ameliorated liver damage and improved elevated levels of TG and liver enzymes of BPA-treated rats possibly though antioxidant activity, downregulation of miR-122 transcript level and lowering the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK1/2, and MAPKAPK and subsequently their activities. Overall, the findings suggest that crocin possesses hepatoprotective effects against BPA-induced liver toxicity by enhancing the antioxidative defense system and regulation of important signaling pathway activities and miR-122 expression.

Acrylamide-derived cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic effects on A549 cells

BACKGROUND

Acrylamide is a very common compound even reaching up to our daily foods. It has been studied in a wealth of cell lines on which it proved to have various toxic effects. Among these cell lines, human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549) is one of that on which acrylamide's toxicity has not been studied well yet.

AIM

We intended to determine the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) dose of acrylamide and to investigate its cytotoxic, anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects on A549 cells.

METHODS

We determined the IC₅₀ dose by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Then, the mode of cell death was evaluated by flow cytometry using Annexin-V fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) staining. Next, we performed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal microscopy analyses for morphological alterations and apoptotic indices.

RESULTS

According to the MTT assay results, A549 cell viability decreases proportionally with increasing acrylamide concentrations and IC₅₀ for A549 was 4.6 mM for 24 h. Annexin-V FITC/PI assay results indicated that acrylamide induces apoptosis in 64% of the A549 cells. TEM and confocal microscopy analyses showed nuclear condensations, fragmentations, cytoskeleton laceration, and membrane blebbing, which are morphological characteristics of apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our research suggests that acrylamide causes cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic effects on A549 cells at 4.6 mM IC₅₀ dose in 24 h.

Antiproliferative Activity of Crocin Involves Targeting of Microtubules in Breast Cancer Cells

Crocin, a component of saffron spice, is known to have an anticancer activity. However, the targets of crocin are not known. In this study, crocin was found to inhibit the proliferation of HCC70, HCC1806, HeLa and CCD1059sk cells by targeting microtubules. Crocin depolymerized both the interphase and mitotic microtubules of different cancer cells, inhibited mitosis and induced multipolar spindle formation in these cells. In vitro, crocin inhibited the assembly of pure tubulin as well as the assembly of microtubule-associated protein rich tubulin. Electron microscopic analysis showed that crocin inhibited microtubule assembly while it induced aggregation of tubulin at higher concentrations. Crocin co-eluted with tubulin suggesting that it binds to tubulin. Vinblastine inhibited the binding of crocin to tubulin while podophyllotoxin did not inhibit the crocin binding indicating that crocin binds at the vinblastine site on tubulin. The results suggested that crocin inhibited cell proliferation mainly by disrupting the microtubule network.

Neuroprotective activity of two active chemical constituents from Tinospora hainanensis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the chemical structure of the new compound and investigate the protective effects of Tinosporaic acid A and B towards in-vitro neuro.

METHODS

The structures of two new compounds were established by analyzing its 1D and 2D NMR spectra as well as HRESIMS. Their neuroprotective effects with respect to the antioxidant properties were evaluated by radical scavenging tests and hydrogen peroxide-injured oxidative stress model in PC12 cell lines. Cell morphology of treated PC12 cells was observed by phase contrast microscopy. In-vitro MTT assay, lactate dehydrogenase activity assay and oxidative stress markers (intracellular ROS production, MDA level, and caspase-3 activity) were used to evaluate the protective effects against hydrogen peroxide induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells.

RESULTS

The two new compounds, named Tinosporaic acid A and B, were isolated and identified from the stem bark of Tinospora hainanensis. Cell viability studies identified a representative concentration for each extract that was subsequently used to measure oxidative stress markers. Both extracts were able to reverse the oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, thus promoting PC12 cells survival. The concentration of Tinosporaic acid A and B were 86.34 μg/mL and 22.06 μg/mL respectively, which is neuroprotective for EC50. The results indicated that both of them significantly attenuated hydrogen peroxide-induced neurotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

The two new compounds isolated from ethanol extracts of Tinospora hainanensis are the promising natural ones with neuroprotective activity and needed for further research.

Effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on acrylamide-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in PC12 cells

Acrylamide (ACR) is a chemical intermediate utilized in industry. ACR is also formed during heating of foods containing carbohydrates and amino acids. Therefore, humans are widely exposed to ACR, and ACR neurotoxicity in humans is a significant public health issue attracting wide attention. In this study, we investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant polyphenolic compound in green tea, in PC12 cells treated with ACR. ACR-treated PC12 cells pretreated with various concentrations of EGCG (2.5, 5 and 10 μM) for 24 h had increased viability and acetylcholinesterase activity and reduced apoptosis and necrosis compared to cells exposed to ACR alone. EGCG reduced the expression of bax mRNA, decreased cytochrome c release, reduced intracellular calcium levels, inactivated caspase 3 and increased mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting that EGCG prevents ACR-induced apoptosis through a mitochondrial-mediated pathway. In addition, EGCG inhibited the formation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation while enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Our results indicate that pretreatment of PC12 cells with EGCG attenuates ACR-induced apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, drinking green tea may reduce nerve injury induced by ACR.

A Perspective on Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) Constituent Crocin: A Potent Water-Soluble Antioxidant and Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Several factors are thought to play roles in the development and course of AD. Existing medical therapies only modestly alleviate and delay cognitive symptoms. Current research has been focused on developing antibodies to remove the aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau protein. This approach has achieved removal of Aβ; however, no cognitive improvement in AD patients has been reported. The biological properties of saffron, the dry stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., and particularly its main constituent crocin, have been studied extensively for many conditions including dementia and traumatic brain injury. Crocin is a unique antioxidant because it is a water-soluble carotenoid. Crocin has shown potential to improve learning and memory as well as protect brain cells. A search of the studies on saffron and crocin that have been published in recent years for their impact on AD as well as crocin's effects on Aβ and tau protein has been conducted. This review demonstrates that crocin exhibits multifunctional protective activities in the brain and could be a promising agent applied as a supplement or drug for prevention or treatment of AD.