Curcuma longa extract supplementation reduces oxidative stress and attenuates aortic fatty streak development in rabbits

Curcumin activates autophagy and attenuates oxidative damage in EA.hy926 cells via the Akt/mTOR pathway

Curcumin, which is the effective component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), has previously been shown to exert potent antioxidant, antitumor and anti‑inflammatory activities in vitro and in vivo. However, the mechanism underlying the protective effects of curcumin against oxidative damage in endothelial cells remains unclear. The present study aimed to examine the effects of curcumin on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‑induced apoptosis and autophagy in EA.hy926 cells, and to determine the underlying molecular mechanism. Cultured EA.hy926 cells were treated with curcumin (5‑20 µmol/l) 4 h prior to and for 4 h during exposure to H2O2 (200 µmol/l). Oxidative stress resulted in a significant increase in the rate of cell apoptosis, which was accompanied by an increase in the expression levels of caspase‑3 and B‑cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‑2)‑associated X protein (Bax), and a decrease in the expression levels of Bcl‑2. Treatment with curcumin (5 or 20 µmol/l) significantly inhibited apoptosis, and reversed the alterations in caspase‑3, Bcl‑2 and Bax expression. Furthermore, curcumin induced autophagy and microtubule‑associated protein 1A/1B‑light chain 3‑Ⅱ expression, and suppressed the phosphorylation of Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). These results indicated that curcumin may protect cells against oxidative stress‑induced damage through inhibiting apoptosis and inducing autophagy via the Akt/mTOR pathway.

Effects and mechanisms of curcumin on the hemodynamic variablesof isolated perfused rat hearts

BACKGROUND/AIM

There is no information on the dose-response relationship of curcumin on the hemodynamic variables of the heart at the organ level in isolated perfused rat hearts. We aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of curcumin on the hemodynamic variables of isolated perfused rat hearts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into 9 groups. The isolated rat heart was retrogradely perfused with modified Krebs-Henseleit solution. After the stabilization period, each group was administered one of the following treatments for 25 min: saline, dimethyl sulfoxide, and curcumin (0.2 µM, 1 µM, and 5 µM); atropine (1 µM); atropine (1 µM) + curcumin (1 µM); L-NAME (100 µM); or L-NAME (100 µM) + curcumin (1 µM). Hemodynamic variables of the heart were measured.

RESULTS

Curcumin at dose of 1 µM decreased the heart rate (from 271 ± 11.1 to 200.4 ± 14.3 beats/min, P = 0.011) but increased end-diastolic pressure (from 7.0 ± 0.4 to 54.6 ± 7.9 mmHg, P = 0.0008). A dose of 5 µM curcumin caused a decrease in the developed pressure (from 87.58 ± 9.0 to 65.40 ± 7.0 mmHg, P = 0.047) but an increase in the end-diastolic pressure (from 6.8 ± 0.6 to 48.9 ± 7.7 mmHg, P = 0.005). Atropine (1 µM) reversed the effects of curcumin on the heart.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that curcumin produces dose-dependent negative chronotropic and inotropic effects in isolated perfused rat hearts.

Curcumin induces crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis mediated by calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomal destabilization and mitochondrial events

Curcumin, a major active component of turmeric (Curcuma longa, L.), has anticancer effects. In vitro studies suggest that curcumin inhibits cancer cell growth by activating apoptosis, but the mechanism underlying these effects is still unclear. Here, we investigated the mechanisms leading to apoptosis in curcumin-treated cells. Curcumin induced endoplasmic reticulum stress causing calcium release, with a destabilization of the mitochondrial compartment resulting in apoptosis. These events were also associated with lysosomal membrane permeabilization and of caspase-8 activation, mediated by cathepsins and calpains, leading to Bid cleavage. Truncated tBid disrupts mitochondrial homeostasis and enhance apoptosis. We followed the induction of autophagy, marked by the formation of autophagosomes, by staining with acridine orange in cells exposed curcumin. At this concentration, only the early events of apoptosis (initial mitochondrial destabilization with any other manifestations) were detectable. Western blotting demonstrated the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II (light chain 3), a marker of active autophagosome formation. We also found that the production of reactive oxygen species and formation of autophagosomes following curcumin treatment was almost completely blocked by N-acetylcystein, the mitochondrial specific antioxidants MitoQ10 and SKQ1, the calcium chelators, EGTA-AM or BAPTA-AM, and the mitochondrial calcium uniporter inhibitor, ruthenium red. Curcumin-induced autophagy failed to rescue all cells and most cells underwent type II cell death following the initial autophagic processes. All together, these data imply a fail-secure mechanism regulated by autophagy in the action of curcumin, suggesting a therapeutic potential for curcumin. Offering a novel and effective strategy for the treatment of malignant cells.

Phytochemical Compounds and Protection from Cardiovascular Diseases: A State of the Art

Cardiovascular diseases represent a worldwide relevant socioeconomical problem. Cardiovascular disease prevention relies also on lifestyle changes, including dietary habits. The cardioprotective effects of several foods and dietary supplements in both animal models and in humans have been explored. It was found that beneficial effects are mainly dependent on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, also involving modulation of mitochondrial function. Resveratrol is one of the most studied phytochemical compounds and it is provided with several benefits in cardiovascular diseases as well as in other pathological conditions (such as cancer). Other relevant compounds are Brassica oleracea, curcumin, and berberine, and they all exert beneficial effects in several diseases. In the attempt to provide a comprehensive reference tool for both researchers and clinicians, we summarized in the present paper the existing literature on both preclinical and clinical cardioprotective effects of each mentioned phytochemical. We structured the discussion of each compound by analyzing, first, its cellular molecular targets of action, subsequently focusing on results from applications in both ex vivo and in vivo models, finally discussing the relevance of the compound in the context of human diseases.

A Systematic Review of the Efficacy of Bioactive Compounds in Cardiovascular Disease: Phenolic Compounds

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is rising and is the prime cause of death in all developed countries. Bioactive compounds (BAC) can have a role in CVD prevention and treatment. The aim of this work was to examine the scientific evidence supporting phenolic BAC efficacy in CVD prevention and treatment by a systematic review. Databases utilized were Medline, LILACS and EMBASE, and all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with prospective, parallel or crossover designs in humans in which the effects of BAC were compared with that of placebo/control were included. Vascular homeostasis, blood pressure, endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers were considered as primary outcomes. Cohort, ecological or case-control studies were not included. We selected 72 articles and verified their quality based on the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network, establishing diverse quality levels of scientific evidence according to two features: the design and bias risk of a study. Moreover, a grade of recommendation was included, depending on evidence strength of antecedents. Evidence shows that certain polyphenols, such as flavonols can be helpful in decreasing CVD risk factors. However, further rigorous evidence is necessary to support the BAC effect on CVD prevention and treatment.

Bioaccessibility of curcuminoids in buttermilk in simulated gastrointestinal digestion models

In vitro gastrointestinal digestion models were used to investigate bioaccessibility of curcuminoids delivered with buttermilk. The percentage of solubilised curcuminoids that partitioned into the micelle in aqueous phase was determined. In fasted states (0-2.5 mg bile extract/mL sample), the bioaccessibility of curcuminoids (2% v/v ethanol) ranged from 16.3% to 26.7% in buttermilk, and from 11.4% to 18.7% with neat curcuminoids. In fed states (10-40 mg bile extract/mL sample), the bioaccessibility of curcuminoids in buttermilk was 21.3% (no ethanol) and ranged from 37.1% to 69.2% (2% v/v ethanol), while for neat curcuminoids bioaccessibility was 14.1% (no ethanol), ranging from 45.6% to 79.6% (2% v/v ethanol). The in vitro bioaccessibility of curcuminoids was influenced by the presence of the carrier (buttermilk) and ethanol, and increased significantly with increasing amount of bile extract. Curcuminoids did not markedly influence the digestibility of protein or lipids. These findings demonstrated that buttermilk could be used as a carrier for curcuminoids especially if delivered with food.

Curcumin Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Inhibition of Inflammatory Response and ERK Signaling Pathways

Background and Objectives. Curcumin has long been used to treat age-related diseases, such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. In this study, we explored the effects of curcumin on the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods. ApoE^−/− mice were randomly divided into 3 groups: AngII group, AngII + curcumin (AngII + Cur) group (100 mg/kg/d), and the control group. Miniosmotic pumps were implanted subcutaneously in ApoE^−/− mice to deliver AngII for 28 days. After 4-week treatment, abdominal aortas with AAA were obtained for H&E staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. Results. The results showed that curcumin treatment significantly decreased the occurrence of AAA. The levels of macrophage infiltration, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and tumor necrosis factors-α (TNF-α) were significantly lower in AngII + Cur group than those in AngII group (all P < 0.01). The level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly higher in AngII + Cur group than those in AngII group (P < 0.01). The ERK1/2 phosphorylation in AngII + Cur group was significantly lower than that in AngII group (P < 0.01). Conclusions. These results suggested that curcumin can inhibit the AngII-induced AAA in ApoE^−/− mice, whose mechanisms include the curcumin anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, and downregulation of ERK signaling pathway.

Antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents enhancement with acute gamma irradiation in Curcuma alismatifolia (Zingiberaceae) leaves

The present study was conducted in order to assess the effect of various doses of acute gamma irradiation (0, 10, 15, and 20 Gy) on the improvement of bioactive compounds and their antioxidant properties of Curcuma alismatifolia var. Sweet pink. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) analysis uncovered that various types of phenolic, flavonoid compounds, and fatty acids gradually altered in response to radiation doses. On the other hand, antioxidant activities determined by 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reduction, antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assay showed a higher irradiation level significantly increased the antioxidant properties. This study revealed an efficient effect of varying levels of gamma radiation, based on the pharmaceutical demand to enhance the accumulation and distribution of bioactive compounds such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds, fatty acids, as well as their antioxidant activities in the leaves of C. alismatifolia var. Sweet pink.

Synthesis, anti-tumor activity, and structure-activity relationships of curcumol derivatives

Using curcumol that was extracted from the volatile oil of Rhizoma Curcumae as the raw material, its derivatives were synthesized and purified. The structures of these compounds were confirmed by (1)H, (13)C NMR, and mass spectral data. The test compounds were evaluated for their in vitro anti-tumor activity against gastric cancer cell lines SGC-7901 and lung carcinoma cell line H460 by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium chromatometry. Distinct structure-activity relationships of these curcumol derivatives were also revealed for inhibiting cell proliferation. Presence of electron-withdrawing groups or amino could increase the activity significantly, whereas esterification of 8-hydroxy diminished the anti-tumor activity. Many of the tested candidates exhibited higher inhibition efficiency than curcumol, suggesting that structural modifications could enhance its activity effectively.

Hepatic protection and anticancer activity of curcuma: a potential chemopreventive strategy against hepatocellular carcinoma

Malignant transformation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurs through repetitive liver injury in a context of inflammation and oxidative DNA damage. A spectrum of natural sesquiterpenoids from curcuma oil has displayed anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. The aim of the study was to investigate the hepatoprotective and anti-HCC effects of curcuma oil in vivo and in vitro. Mice were pretreated with curcuma oil (100 mg/kg) for 3 days, then treated with Concanavalin A (30 mg/kg). The hepatic tissue was evaluated for histology, CD4⁺ cell, interferon-γ, apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine and MnSOD. C57L/J mice were treated with curcuma oil and 10⁷ Hepa1-6 cells directly inoculated into liver lobes. The effects of curcuma oil on cell growth and cell death were evaluated. In addition, MnSOD, HSP60, catalase, NF-κB and caspase-3 were also investigated in the Hepa1-6 cells treated with curcuma oil. Pretreatment with curcuma oil significantly attenuates inflammation and oxidative damage by Concanavalin A. Treatment with curcuma oil can decrease the incidence of HCC. Curcuma oil inhibits cell growth and induces cell death in Hepa1-6 cells. Curcuma protected mice with hepatic injury from inflammatory and oxidative stress. Curcuma oil can inhibit hepatoma cell growth in vivo and in vitro.

Reduction of atherogenic risk in patients with type 2 diabetes by curcuminoid extract: a randomized controlled trial

Curcumin is a phytocompound found in the root of turmeric, a common herbal ingredient in many Asian cuisines. The compound contains anti-inflammatory activity, which is mediated through an up-regulation of adiponectin and reduction of leptin. Consumption of curcumin was shown to prevent some deteriorative conditions caused by inflammation, such as ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis and esophagitis, and so on. Inflammation-associated cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis are common in diabetes patients. The anti-inflammation effect of curcumin might be beneficial to prevent such condition in these patients. We aim to evaluate an antiatherosclerosis effect of curcumin in diabetes patients. Effects of curcumin on risk factors for atherosclerosis were investigated in a 6-month randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled clinical trial that included subjects diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. An atherosclerosis parameter, the pulse wave velocity, and other metabolic parameters in patients treated with placebo and curcumin were compared. Our results showed that curcumin intervention significantly reduced pulse wave velocity, increased level of serum adiponectin and decreased level of leptin. These results are associated with reduced levels of homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance, triglyceride, uric acid, visceral fat and total body fat. In summary, a 6-month curcumin intervention in type 2 diabetic population lowered the atherogenic risks. In addition, the extract helped to improve relevant metabolic profiles in this high-risk population.

Curcumin modulation of high fat diet-induced atherosclerosis and steatohepatosis in LDL receptor deficient mice

OBJECTIVE

Consuming curcumin may benefit health by modulating lipid metabolism and suppressing atherogenesis. Fatty acid binding proteins (FABP-4/aP2) and CD36 expression are key factors in lipid accumulation in macrophages and foam cell formation in atherogenesis. Our earlier observations suggest that curcumin's suppression of atherogenesis might be mediated through changes in aP2 and CD36 expression in macrophages. Thus, this study aimed to further elucidate the impact of increasing doses of curcumin on modulation of these molecular mediators on high fat diet-induced atherogenesis, inflammation, and steatohepatosis in Ldlr(-/-) mice.

METHODS

Ldlr(-/-) mice were fed low fat (LF) or high fat (HF) diet supplemented with curcumin (500 HF + LC; 1000 HF + MC; 1500 HF + HC mg/kg diet) for 16 wks. Fecal samples were analyzed for total lipid content. Lipids accumulation in THP-1 cells and expression of aP2, CD36 and lipid accumulation in peritoneal macrophages were measured. Fatty streak lesions and expression of IL-6 and MCP-1 in descending aortas were quantified. Aortic root was stained for fatty and fibrotic deposits and for the expression of aP2 and VCAM-1. Total free fatty acids, insulin, glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol as well as several inflammatory cytokines were measured in plasma. The liver's total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL content were measured, and the presence of fat droplets, peri-portal fibrosis and glycogen was examined histologically.

RESULTS

Curcumin dose-dependently reduced uptake of oxLDL in THP-1 cells. Curcumin also reduced body weight gain and body fat without affecting fat distribution. During early intervention, curcumin decreased fecal fat, but at later stages, it increased fat excretion. Curcumin at medium doses of 500-1000 mg/kg diet was effective at reducing fatty streak formation and suppressing aortic expression of IL-6 in the descending aorta and blood levels of several inflammatory cytokines, but at a higher dose (HF + HC, 1500 mg/kg diet), it had adverse effects on some of these parameters. This U-shape like trend was also present when aortic root sections were examined histologically. However, at a high dose, curcumin suppressed development of steatohepatosis, reduced fibrotic tissue, and preserved glycogen levels in liver.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin through a series of complex mechanisms, alleviated the adverse effects of high fat diet on weight gain, fatty liver development, dyslipidemia, expression of inflammatory cytokines and atherosclerosis in Ldlr(-/-) mouse model of human atherosclerosis. One of the mechanisms by which low dose curcumin modulates atherogenesis is through suppression of aP2 and CD36 expression in macrophages, which are the key players in atherogenesis. Overall, these effects of curcumin are dose-dependent; specifically, a medium dose of curcumin in HF diet appears to be more effective than a higher dose of curcumin.

Polyphenols: benefits to the cardiovascular system in health and in aging

Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of naturally occurring dietary polyphenols in promoting cardiovascular health and emphasized the significant role these compounds play in limiting the effects of cellular aging. Polyphenols such as resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and curcumin have been acknowledged for having beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, while some have also been shown to be protective in aging. This review highlights the literature surrounding this topic on the prominently studied and documented polyphenols as pertaining to cardiovascular health and aging.

Curcumin attenuates diet-induced hepatic steatosis by activating AMP-activated protein kinase

Curcumin is a well-known component of traditional turmeric (Curcuma longa), which has been reported to prevent obesity and diabetes. However, the effect of curcumin on hepatic lipid metabolism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of curcumin on hepatic steatosis in high-fat/cholesterol diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet (ND), HFD or HFD with 0.15% curcumin (HFD+C) for 11 weeks. We found that curcumin significantly lowered the body-weight and adipose tissue weight of mice in the HFD+C group compared with the findings for the HFD group (p < 0.05). The levels of total cholesterol, fasting glucose and insulin in serum were decreased, and HFD-induced impairment of insulin sensitivity was improved by curcumin supplementation (p < 0.05). Curcumin protected against the development of hepatic steatosis by reducing hepatic fat accumulation. Moreover, curcumin activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and elevated the gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha. By contrast, curcumin suppressed the HFD-mediated increases in sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1, acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, fatty acid synthase and cluster of differentiation 36 expression. Taken together, these findings indicate that curcumin attenuates HFD-induced hepatic steatosis by regulating hepatic lipid metabolism via AMPK activation, suggesting its use as a therapeutic for hepatic steatosis.

The effects of turmeric supplementation on antioxidant status, blood gas indices and mortality in broiler chickens with T(3)-induced ascites

1. A total of 320 one-day-old Ross male broiler chickens were used to investigate the effects of 0·0, 2·5, 5·0 and 7·5 g/kg turmeric rhizome powder (TRP) in the diet, on antioxidant status, biochemical gas indices and mortality in broiler chickens with triiodothyronine (T(3)) induced ascites. 2. The TRP supplementation had no effect on blood pH, pO(2) or pCO(2) during the whole period of study. Moreover, supplementation of TRP did not influence the heart weight, right ventricle, left ventricle, or total ventricle weights, all relative to total live weight; RV/TV (right ventricle to total ventricle) ratio; or serum GPX (glutathione peroxidase) or SOD (superoxide dismutase) activities at week 6. 3. TRP supplementation influenced the blood [Formula: see text] and O(2) saturation during the whole period of study, total mortality due to ascites, and serum total tocopherol and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Blood [Formula: see text] and serum total tocopherol increased linearly as dietary TRP level increased. Blood O(2) saturation increased quadratically as dietary TRP increased. 4. Total ascites mortality and serum MDA content decreased linearly with increasing TRP level to 5 mg/kg and then reached a plateau. 5. The results of the study indicate that the addition of 5·0 g/kg TRP is sufficient to increase the blood O(2) saturation and bicarbonate ([Formula: see text]) concentration, and reduce the mortality due to ascites and serum MDA content.

Molecular mechanisms of hypolipidemic effects of curcumin

Recent evidence suggests potential benefits from phytochemicals and micronutrients in reducing the elevated oxidative and lipid-mediated stress associated with inflammation, obesity, and atherosclerosis. These compounds may either directly scavenge reactive oxygen or nitrogen species or they may modulate the activity of signal transduction enzymes leading to changes in the expression of antioxidant genes. Alternatively, they may reduce plasma lipid levels by modulating lipid metabolic genes in tissues and thus reduce indirectly lipid-mediated oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress through their hypolipidemic effect. Here we review the proposed molecular mechanisms by which curcumin, a polyphenol present in the rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa) spice, influences oxidative and lipid-mediated stress in the vascular system. At the molecular level, mounting experimental evidence suggests that curcumin may act chemically as scavenger of free radicals and/or influences signal transduction (e.g., Akt, AMPK) and modulates the activity of specific transcription factors (e.g., FOXO1/3a, NRF2, SREBP1/2, CREB, CREBH, PPARγ, and LXRα) that regulate the expression of genes involved in free radicals scavenging (e.g., catalase, MnSOD, and heme oxygenase-1) and lipid homeostasis (e.g., aP2/FABP4, CD36, HMG-CoA reductase, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-I (CPT-1)). At the cellular level, curcumin may induce a mild oxidative and lipid-metabolic stress leading to an adaptive cellular stress response by hormetic stimulation of these cellular antioxidant defense systems and lipid metabolic enzymes. The resulting lower oxidative and lipid-mediated stress may not only explain the beneficial effects of curcumin on inflammation, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative disease, but may also contribute to the increase in maximum life-span observed in animal models.

The sonodynamic effect of curcumin on THP-1 cell-derived macrophages

Curcumin is extracted from the rhizomes of the traditional Chinese herb Curcuma longa and has been proposed to function as a photosensitizer. The potential use of curcumin as a sonosensitizer for sonodynamic therapy (SDT) requires further exploration. This study investigated the sonodynamic effect of curcumin on macrophages, the pivotal inflammatory cells in atherosclerotic plaque. THP-1-derived macrophages were incubated with curcumin at a concentration of 40.7 μmol/L for 2 h and then exposed to pulse ultrasound irradiation (2 W/cm² with 0.86 MHz) for 5–15 min. Six hours later, cell viability was decreased in cells that had been treated with ultrasound for 10 and 15 min. After ultrasound irradiation for 15 min, the ratio of apoptotic and necrotic cells in SDT group was higher than that in ultrasound group, and the ratio of apoptotic cells was higher than that of necrotic cells. Both loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and morphological changes of cytoskeleton were apparent 2 h after treatment with curcumin SDT. These findings support that curcumin had sonodynamic effect on THP-1-derived macrophages and that curcumin SDT could be a promising treatment for atherosclerosis.

Curcumin ameliorates arterial dysfunction and oxidative stress with aging

We tested the hypothesis that curcumin supplementation would reverse arterial dysfunction and vascular oxidative stress with aging. Young (Y, 4-6 months) and old (O, 26-28 months) male C57BL6/N mice were given normal or curcumin supplemented (0.2%) chow for 4 weeks (n=5-10/group/measure). Large elastic artery stiffness, assessed by aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV), was greater in O (448±15 vs. 349±15 cm/s) and associated with greater collagen I and advanced glycation end-products and less elastin (all P<0.05). In O, curcumin restored aPWV (386±15 cm/s), collagen I and AGEs (AGEs) to levels not different vs. Y. Ex vivo carotid artery acetylcholine (ACh)-induced endothelial-dependent dilation (EDD, 79±3 vs. 94±2%), nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and protein expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) were lower in O (all P<0.05). In O, curcumin restored NO-mediated EDD (92±2%) to levels of Y. Acute ex vivo administration of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic TEMPOL normalized EDD in O control mice (93±3%), but had no effect in Y control or O curcumin treated animals. O had greater arterial nitrotyrosine abundance, superoxide production and NADPH oxidase p67 subunit expression, and lower manganese SOD (all P<0.05), all of which were reversed with curcumin. Curcumin had no effects on Y. Curcumin supplementation ameliorates age-associated large elastic artery stiffening, NO-mediated vascular endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and increases in collagen and AGEs in mice. Curcumin may be a novel therapy for treating arterial aging in humans.

Dietary Nrf2 activators inhibit atherogenic processes

Dietary Nrf2 activators increase expression of phase 2 protein genes in cells undergoing oxidative stress resulting in a lowering of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress promotes atherogenic processes through oxidizing low density lipoproteins and promotion of inflammation through activation of nuclear factor kappa B and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases. Nrf2 activators by decreasing oxidative stress decrease the probability of developing atherosclerotic lesions.

Dietary curcumin inhibits atherosclerosis by affecting the expression of genes involved in leukocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration

SCOPE

The aim of the study was to examine the atheroprotective effect of dietary curcumin in a mouse model of atherosclerosis and to identify its cellular and molecular targets at the vascular level.

METHODS AND RESULTS

ApoE(-/-) mice were fed with curcumin at 0.2% (wt/wt) in diet for 4 months. This supplementation reduced the extent of atherosclerotic lesion by 26% and induced changes in expression of genes implicated in cell adhesion and transendothelial migration or cytoskeleton organization, as revealed by a transcriptomic analysis in the aorta. Expression profile of these genes suggests reduction in both leukocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration. In agreement with this hypothesis, we observed a reduction (-37%) in macrophage infiltration in the plaque, as measured by immunohistochemistry, and, in vitro, a lower adhesion of monocytes to TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cells (-32%) after exposure to a nutritionally achievable concentration of curcumin. These changes in gene expression could be related to the observed increased expression of IκB protein and decrease of TNF-α-induced NF-κB/DNA binding and NF-κB-transcriptional activity upon exposure to curcumin.

CONCLUSION

Our findings pointed out that the antiatherogenic effect of curcumin could be linked to its effect on gene networks and cell functions related to leukocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration via NF-κB-dependent pathways.

Effects and mechanism of turmeric vasorelaxation of the thoracic aorta in hypercholesterolemic rats

An extract of Curcuma longa was tested in hypercholesterolemic rats to investigate its potential therapeutic effect on vascular conditions. Four experimental groups were used: normal diet (ND) control group, high cholesterol diet (HCD) group, and HCD subgroups supplemented with turmeric extract at 100 or 300 mg/kg of body weight (HCD100Tur and HCD300Tur groups, respectively). Turmeric extract was fed orally to animals, and dietary treatments lasted for 28 days. Hypercholesterolemia developed in the HCD, HCD100Tur, and HCD300Tur rats. Segments of the thoracic aorta were isolated, and an organ bath experiment was used to assess the vasorelaxation capability among all rats. Rats fed only HCD showed a marked decrease in acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation compared with ND control rats. The HCD100Tur and HCD300Tur rats showed significant improvement in vasorelaxation compared with HCD rats. When vasorelaxation was induced by high concentrations of sodium nitroprusside, no differences in vasorelaxation were observed among the four groups of rats. A mechanistic study showed that HCD100Tur and HCD300Tur rats had significantly higher levels of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase than HCD rats. The transcript levels of heat shock protein 70 (hsp70), bcl2, bax-α, caspase (casp3), and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase in aortic tissues indicated that hypercholesterolemia significantly increased the expression of bax-α and casp3 but down-regulated bcl2 expression compared with the control group. Turmeric increased the expression of hsp70 and bcl2 but greatly reduced casp3 expression, indicating that turmeric improves vasorelaxation of the aorta in hypercholesterolemic rats by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and likely suppressing apoptosis.

Effects of replacing palm oil with maize oil and Curcuma longa supplementation on the performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and fatty acid profile of the perirenal fat and muscle of growing rabbits

An experiment has been conducted to study the effects of the inclusion of plant oil in rabbit diets. This study was aimed at evaluating the beneficial effects of the inclusion of maize oil (MO), rich in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), compared to palm oil (PO) containing saturated fatty acids (SFAs), on the meat fatty acid (FA) profile. As UFAs are susceptible to rancidity, Curcuma longa (CL), which is known for its antioxidant properties, was also added (3 g/kg) to the diet with two plant oils. CL contains curcuminoids, volatile oils, sugars, proteins, resins and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). We also evaluated the influence of CL inclusion in the diet on the FA profile of the meat. Furthermore, the possibility of using these oil-enriched diets and the ability to assimilate CL in rabbits was evaluated by analysing the performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality. At the end of the experiment, there were no significant differences between the groups concerning the live weight, live weight gain, feed consumption, feed efficiency, carcass yield or the percentages of edible organs. The hind legs, forelegs, loins and abdominal wall, breast and ribs, skin and limbs and head were not affected by the oil type or by the inclusion of CL. The chemical composition, pH and oxidative status of the Longissimus dorsi muscle of the rabbits fed the experimental diets were not affected by the oil source or by the CL supplementation. Conversely, it has been shown that it is possible to modify the FA profile of rabbit meat and fat by dietary means. The SFA/PUFA ratio significantly decreased from -18% to -16% in the meat and from -25% to -23% in the perirenal fat of the rabbits fed diets containing MO without or with CL supplementation, respectively, compared to same tissues of the rabbits fed diets containing PO without or with CL supplementation, respectively. Similar trends were found for the atherogenic index, which decreased from -20% to -17% in the meat and from -26% to -23% in the perirenal fat, respectively, and the thrombogenic index, which decreased from -19% to -24% in the meat and from -24% to -23% in the perirenal fat, respectively. CL increased the α-Linolenic acid and PUFA n-3 contents and reduced the vaccenic acid content and the n-6/n-3 ratio in the meat of the rabbits fed the PO or MO diets.

Demethoxycurcumin Retards Cell Growth and Induces Apoptosis in Human Brain Malignant Glioma GBM 8401 Cells

Demethoxycurcumin (DMC; a curcumin-related demethoxy compound) has been recently shown to display antioxidant and antitumor activities. It has also produced a potent chemopreventive action against cancer. In the present study, the antiproliferation (using the MTT assay, DMC was found to have cytotoxic activities against GBM 8401 cell with IC₅₀ values at 22.71 μM) and induced apoptosis effects of DMC have been investigated in human brain malignant glioma GBM 8401 cells. We have studied the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), DNA fragmentation, caspase activation, and NF-κB transcriptional factor activity. By these approaches, our results indicated that DMC has produced an inhibition of cell proliferation as well as the activation of apoptosis in GBM 8401 cells. Both effects were observed to increase in proportion with the dosage of DMC treatment, and the apoptosis was induced by DMC in human brain malignant glioma GBM 8401 cells via mitochondria- and caspase-dependent pathways.

Herbal remedies supply a novel prospect for the treatment of atherosclerosis: a review of current mechanism studies

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a systemic cardiovascular disease with complicated pathogenesis involving oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and chronic inflammation. Increasing lines of evidence have questioned the statins-dominated treatment for AS, including their dangerous side-effects such as the breakdown of muscle when taken in larger doses. A multifaceted approach that addresses all major risk factors or pathological targets may provide an ideal treatment for AS. Studies of the herbal remedies on the prevention and treatment of AS have received much attention in recent years. This review summarizes some important experimental findings regarding their mechanisms of action on AS. Using the pre-set PUBMED searching syntax and inclusion criteria, representative citations published in English concerning the experimental studies of 14 herbal materials were included. We found that many extracts and (or) single compounds from these herbal materials, such as Salvia miltiorrhiza, Curcuma longa, Rheum undulatum and Panax notoginseng, could regulate multiple key targets involved in the initiation and propagation of AS. Some important findings about the effects of herbal formulations on AS were also reviewed. Given the complicated nature of AS and the holistic, combinational approach of herbal remedies, we propose that mixed herbal preparations with multiple active ingredients may be preferable for the prevention and treatment of AS. Further rigorously designed pharmacological evaluation and multi-centred clinical trials are warranted.

Long-term curcumin administration protects against atherosclerosis via hepatic regulation of lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism

SCOPE

Atherosclerosis is a major cause of cardiovascular disease caused by high cholesterol. Stains are widely prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, but natural dietary compounds may also be effective. Therefore, we studied the effect of the natural dietary compound curcumin on atherosclerosis and its underlying mechanisms based on plasma and hepatic lipid metabolism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

LDLR(-/-) mice were fed a high-cholesterol diet and treated with curcumin, lovastatin or control (n=10 per group) for 18 wk. Aortic arch sections revealed curcumin ameliorated early atherosclerotic lesions, lipid infiltration, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 localization, similar to lovastatin treatment. Furthermore, curcumin lowered plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and Apo B levels as well as CETP activity, while curcumin increased plasma HDL cholesterol and liver Apo A-I expression, similar to lovastatin treatment. Curcumin caused transcriptional inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, independent of ACAT1 and ACAT2 expression. Hepatic PPARα and LXRα expression was upregulated by curcumin treatment. Hepatic complement factor D (Cfd) and systemic CRP levels, markers of immune complement pathway activation, were significantly reduced by curcumin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Long-term curcumin treatment lowers plasma and hepatic cholesterol and suppresses early atherosclerotic lesions comparable to the protective effects of lovastatin. The anti-atherogenic effect of curcumin is mediated via multiple mechanisms including altered lipid, cholesterol and immune gene expression.

Curcumin inhibits growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae through iron chelation

Curcumin, a polyphenol derived from turmeric, is an ancient therapeutic used in India for centuries to treat a wide array of ailments. Interest in curcumin has increased recently, with ongoing clinical trials exploring curcumin as an anticancer therapy and as a protectant against neurodegenerative diseases. In vitro, curcumin chelates metal ions. However, although diverse physiological effects have been documented for this compound, curcumin's mechanism of action on mammalian cells remains unclear. This study uses yeast as a model eukaryotic system to dissect the biological activity of curcumin. We found that yeast mutants lacking genes required for iron and copper homeostasis are hypersensitive to curcumin and that iron supplementation rescues this sensitivity. Curcumin penetrates yeast cells, concentrates in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes, and reduces the intracellular iron pool. Curcumin-treated, iron-starved cultures are enriched in unbudded cells, suggesting that the G(1) phase of the cell cycle is lengthened. A delay in cell cycle progression could, in part, explain the antitumorigenic properties associated with curcumin. We also demonstrate that curcumin causes a growth lag in cultured human cells that is remediated by the addition of exogenous iron. These findings suggest that curcumin-induced iron starvation is conserved from yeast to humans and underlies curcumin's medicinal properties.

Calcific aortic valve stenosis: methods, models, and mechanisms

Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) is a major health problem facing aging societies. The identification of osteoblast-like and osteoclast-like cells in human tissue has led to a major paradigm shift in the field. CAVS was thought to be a passive, degenerative process, whereas now the progression of calcification in CAVS is considered to be actively regulated. Mechanistic studies examining the contributions of true ectopic osteogenesis, nonosseous calcification, and ectopic osteoblast-like cells (that appear to function differently from skeletal osteoblasts) to valvular dysfunction have been facilitated by the development of mouse models of CAVS. Recent studies also suggest that valvular fibrosis, as well as calcification, may play an important role in restricting cusp movement, and CAVS may be more appropriately viewed as a fibrocalcific disease. High-resolution echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging have emerged as useful tools for testing the efficacy of pharmacological and genetic interventions in vivo. Key studies in humans and animals are reviewed that have shaped current paradigms in the field of CAVS, and suggest promising future areas for research.

Prameha in Ayurveda: correlation with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus. Part 2--management of Prameha

BACKGROUND

Obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus are increasing to epidemic proportions globally. Prameha is a syndrome described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts that includes clinical conditions involved in obesity, prediabetes, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Various dietary, lifestyle, and psychologic factors are involved in the etiology of Prameha, particularly in relation to disturbances in fat and carbohydrate metabolism.

RESULTS

The Ayurvedic management of Prameha emphasizes dietary and lifestyle recommendations and herbal preparations, in accordance with the psychophysiologic constitution of the patient. Ayurveda also addresses the management of psychologic factors that contribute to the development of Prameha. Ayurvedic treatment known as Apatarpana (balanced diet with restricted calories) and Santarpana (highly nutritious, high-calorie diet intended to increase weight) are recommended for patients with type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. Various Ayurvedic herbs and herbomineral formulations are utilized, based on the stage and type of disease as well as the psychophysiologic constitution of the patient. A large body of research has been conducted on these Ayurvedic herbs.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrating the theory and modalities of Ayurveda in the management of these disorders may prove to be beneficial.

Targeting inflammation-induced obesity and metabolic diseases by curcumin and other nutraceuticals

Extensive research within the past two decades has revealed that obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, cancer, and other chronic diseases, is a proinflammatory disease. Several spices have been shown to exhibit activity against obesity through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Among them, curcumin, a yellow pigment derived from the spice turmeric (an essential component of curry powder), has been investigated most extensively as a treatment for obesity and obesity-related metabolic diseases. Curcumin directly interacts with adipocytes, pancreatic cells, hepatic stellate cells, macrophages, and muscle cells. There, it suppresses the proinflammatory transcription factors nuclear factor-kappa B, signal transducer and activators of transcription-3, and Wnt/beta-catenin, and it activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma and Nrf2 cell-signaling pathways, thus leading to the downregulation of adipokines, including tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-6, resistin, leptin, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and the upregulation of adiponectin and other gene products. These curcumin-induced alterations reverse insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and other symptoms linked to obesity. Other structurally homologous nutraceuticals, derived from red chili, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and ginger, also exhibit effects against obesity and insulin resistance.

Food preservatives sodium benzoate and propionic acid and colorant curcumin suppress Th1-type immune response in vitro

Food preservatives sodium benzoate and propionic acid and colorant curcumin are demonstrated to suppress in a dose-dependent manner Th1-type immune response in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in vitro. Results show an anti-inflammatory property of compounds which however could shift the Th1-Th2-type immune balance towards Th2-type immunity.

Periodontitis is associated with altered plasma fatty acids and cardiovascular risk markers

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In periodontitis it has been found that some perturbation exists in lipid biomarkers, such as increased serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Nevertheless, the relationship between fatty acids and periodontitis has been demonstrated only in a few studies and remains controversial. The aim of this investigation was to explore the effects of periodontitis on a cluster of traditional and novel cardiovascular risk factors such as plasma-lipids profile, types of plasma fatty acids, adhesion molecules and systemic inflammatory markers.

METHODS AND RESULTS

At a university dental school, 56 patients all over 35 years old were enrolled and invited to participate in the study. Total plasma fatty acids, saturated, n-6 polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, peroxidability index, soluble VCAM, TNF-alpha, cholesterol, triacylglycerols, and VLDL-c were significantly higher in the periodontitis group compared to the non-periodontitis group.

CONCLUSIONS

This close association found between plasma triacylglycerols, LDL-c, saturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, total amount of fatty acids and coenzyme Q(10) with some periodontal data such as periodontal probing depth, recession of the gingival margin and clinical attachment level (Pearson correlation between 0.3 and 0.6), leads to the conclusion that there is an inter-relationship between periodontitis, plasma fatty acids profile and the increase in metabolic risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.

In vitro screening for anthelmintic and antitumour activity of ethnomedicinal plants from Thailand

AIM OF STUDY

This study screened for anthelmintic and/or antitumour bioactive compounds from Thai indigenous plants and evaluated effectiveness against three different worm species and two cancer cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methylene chloride and methanol extracts of 32 plant species were screened for in vitro anthelmintic activity against three species of worms, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the digeneans Paramphistomum epiclitum and Schistosoma mansoni (cercariae). Cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated against two cancer cell lines: human amelanotic melanoma (C32) and human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) by the SRB assay. Anthelmintic and anticancer activities were evaluated by the inhibiting concentration at 50% death (IC(50)) and the selectivity index (SI) relative to human fibroblasts.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

None of the extracts were active against Paramphistomum epiclitum. Plumbagin, a pure compound from Plumbago indica, had the strongest activity against Caenorhabditis elegans. The methylene chloride extract of Piper chaba fruits had the strongest activity against schistosome cercariae. Strong cytotoxicity was shown by the methylene chloride extract of Michelia champaca bark and the methanol extract of Curcuma longa rhizome against C32 and HeLa, respectively. These extracts had higher SI (>100) than positive controls in relation to either the worms or the cell lines. The methanol extract of Bouea burmanica had a slightly lower activity towards C32 cells than did Michelia champaca but had a much higher SI (>27,000).

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The plant species screened in this research was recorded by several indigenous medicinal practitioners as antiparasitic, anticancer and/or related activities to the human major organ system.

Potential therapeutic effects of curcumin, the anti-inflammatory agent, against neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases

Although safe in most cases, ancient treatments are ignored because neither their active component nor their molecular targets are well defined. This is not the case, however, with curcumin, a yellow-pigment substance and component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), which was identified more than a century ago. For centuries it has been known that turmeric exhibits anti-inflammatory activity, but extensive research performed within the past two decades has shown that this activity of turmeric is due to curcumin (diferuloylmethane). This agent has been shown to regulate numerous transcription factors, cytokines, protein kinases, adhesion molecules, redox status and enzymes that have been linked to inflammation. The process of inflammation has been shown to play a major role in most chronic illnesses, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. In the current review, we provide evidence for the potential role of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of various proinflammatory chronic diseases. These features, combined with the pharmacological safety and negligible cost, render curcumin an attractive agent to explore further.

Extraction, processing, and storage effects on curcuminoids and oleoresin yields from Curcuma longa L. grown in Jamaica

Aromatic diarylheptanoid compounds from Curcuma longa Linn grown in Jamaica were quantified by UV-vis spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analyses. The oleoresin yields from ethanolic extracts were quantified and evaluated with regard to the effects of the type of postharvesting process and the type of extraction method conducted on the plant material. Fresh samples that were hot solvent extracted provided the highest oleoresin yields of 15.7% +/- 0.4 ( n = 3), and the lowest oleoresin yields of 7.8% +/- 0.2 ( n = 3) were from the dried milled samples that were cold solvent extracted. Data from the ASTA spectrophotometer assay confirmed that dried samples contained the highest curcuminoid content of 55.5% +/- 2.2 ( n = 6) at the fifth month of storage, and the fresh samples showed a curcuminoid content of 47.1% +/- 6.4 ( n = 6) at the third month of storage. A modified HPLC analysis was used to quantify curcumin content. Data from the HPLC analysis confirmed that the dried treated, hot extracted, room temperature stored samples had the highest curcumin content of 24.3%. A novel high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method provided a chemical fingerprint of the C. longa with the use of a commercial curcumin standard.

A review of complementary and alternative approaches to immunomodulation

Current Western therapies for inflammatory diseases are suboptimal; increasingly, patients are turning to complementary and alternative medicine for symptom relief and improved quality of life. There is emerging evidence that many of these therapies have the ability to modulate the immune system and disrupt the proinflammatory cascade through a variety of mechanisms, including antioxidant effects, alterations in cell signaling (in particular the nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB pathway), cytokines, proinflammatory mediators, and disruption of bacterial flora. Using inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as a model of inflammation, we explore the principal complementary and alternative medicine treatments that show promise in this regard, namely, resveratrol, green tea, curcumin, boswellia, fish oil, vitamin D, and probiotics. With each agent, we detail the mechanisms that have been described with regard to immune modulation, discuss the medical conditions for which it has been evaluated, and explore the data to date for the prevention or treatment of IBD.