Ganoderic acid A against cyclophosphamide‐induced hepatic toxicity in mice

Levomilnacipran alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatic dysfunction in male Wistar albino rats; emerging role of α-Klotho/TLR4/p38-MAPK/NF-κB p65 and caspase-3-driven apoptosis trajectories

AIM

This study aims to investigate the potential protective effect of levomilnacipran (LVM) against cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced hepatotoxicity by targeting α-Klotho/TLR4/p38-MAPK/NF-κB p65 and Caspase-3-dependent apoptosis signaling pathways.

MAIN METHODS

The toxicity of CPA was assessed using biochemical analysis of the serum hepatotoxicity parameters (AST, ALT, and direct bilirubin) and histopathological examination. Hepatic MDA and SOD were evaluated. The ELISA procedure was employed to evaluate the levels of hepatic TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18, hepatic caspase-3, and serum α-Klotho. The expression of hepatic TLR4 and NF-κB p65 was examined using an immunohistochemical technique. A western blot assay was used to determine the expression of MYD88, and p38-MAPK.

KEY FINDINGS

LVM abrogated CPA-induced hepatotoxicity by reducing the elevated hepatoxicity markers and mitigating the histopathological aberrations. It also lowered MDA content and increased SOD activity. Furthermore, it reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18 contents, as well as caspase-3 activity. Additionally, LVM diminished TLR4, MYD88, NF-κB p65, and p38 MAPK expression and boosted the levels of α-Klotho.

SIGNIFICANCE

LVM alleviated hepatic injury generated by CPA via downregulating TLR4/p38 MAPK/NF-κB p65 signaling cascade through the participation of α-Klotho, as well as inhibiting caspase-3-driven apoptosis.

Protective effects of herbal compounds against cyclophosphamide-induced organ toxicity: a pathway-centered approach

Cyclophosphamide is a key component of numerous chemotherapeutic protocols, demonstrating broad-spectrum efficacy against various malignancies and non-cancerous conditions. This review examines CPM's metabolic pathways, therapeutic applications, and its resulting organ-specific toxicities. Despite its clinical benefits in treating nephrotic syndrome, encephalomyelitis, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and other diseases, CPM is associated with significant adverse effects on the kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, and intestines. The discussion delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying these toxicities, highlighting dysregulation in key signaling pathways, including Nrf2, NF-κB, MAPK/ERK, and AKT. In addressing these challenges, recent studies have identified various herbal drugs and phytochemicals capable of mitigating CPM-induced toxicity. Notable compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, baicalin, quercetin, and curcumin have demonstrated protective effects. Integrating these herbal formulations with CPM therapy is proposed to enhance patient safety and treatment efficacy. This review underscores the influence of CPM on apoptosis and inflammation pathways, which lead to alterations in organ-specific biomarkers. Phytochemicals may exert protective effects by restoring disrupted signaling pathways and normalizing altered biomarkers. The compilation of phytochemicals presented in this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers exploring other herbal products with potential protective effects against CPM toxicity. A significant gap in the current literature is the lack of clinical trials evaluating phytochemicals that mitigate CPM toxicity in vivo. Rigorous clinical studies are necessary to establish the efficacy and safety of herbal formulations in cancer treatment. Such research will clarify the role of natural remedies in complementing conventional therapies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Rosmarinic acid protects against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity via inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis and upregulation of Nrf2 in mice

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is widely used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer. However, it is toxic to the liver and other organs. Rosmarinic acid (RA) possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective properties. This study investigated the protective effects of RA against CP-induced liver injury in mice. Mice were treated with RA (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) for 15 days and followed by a single injection of CP on day 16th. CP injection resulted in an elevation in serum AST, ALT, and ALP, along with multiple histopathological alterations in the liver. CP also induced increased levels of MDA and NO, associated with declined GSH, SOD and CAT. RA pretreatment prevented liver injury, alleviated the enhanced levels of MDA and NO, and restored antioxidants defenses, hence avoiding the oxidative injury in the liver. Moreover, RA pretreatment attenuated NF-κB p65 and proinflammatory cytokines levels. Liver of CP-injected mice also showed a decrease in Bcl2, accompanied with elevated BAX and caspase-3 expression, an effect that RA pretreatment alleviated. In addition, pretreatment of CP-administrated mice with RA restored the Nrf2 expression in the liver. Taken together, this study suggests a potential application value of RA in preventing CP hepatotoxicity and sheds light on the possible mechanism.

Levocabastine ameliorates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice: modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB p65, cleaved caspase-3 and TGF-β signaling molecules

BACKGROUND

Cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced hepatotoxicity is a significant problem in clinical settings. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of levocabastine (LEV) on CP-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Mice were given CP (toxic drug) 200 mg/kg, i.p., once on the 7th day, and LEV 50 and 100 µg/kg, i.p., and fenofibrate (FF) 80 mg/kg, p.o., daily for 14 days. On the 15th day, blood and liver samples were collected to assess biological parameters. CP 200 mg/kg caused hepatotoxicity due to oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis as manifested by a reduction in catalase, reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and an increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), nitrite, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels. Cleaved caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) expression was also increased and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) expression was decreased as confirmed by Immunohistochemical analysis. It also caused histopathological abnormalities and fibrosis as manifested by Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome (MT) staining. These alterations were returned to almost normal when treated with LEV 100 µg/kg and FF 80 mg/kg. Thus, LEV protected CP-induced hepatotoxicity by reversing inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, oxidative stress, hepatic injury, and histopathological damages.

CONCLUSION

LEV can be helpful as an adjuvant in cancer patients who are on CP treatment, to minimize toxicity. However, its role in in-vivo cancer model is further needed to be confirmed.

Research Progress on the Biological Activity of Ganoderic Acids in Ganoderma lucidum over the Last Five Years

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) is a traditional edible and medicinal mushroom in China. The main bioactive components in G. lucidum include triterpenoids, polysaccharides, steroids, and sterols. Ganoderic acids (GAs) are one of the most abundant triterpenoids found in G. lucidum, garnering significant attention from researchers in the fields of medicine and health care. We summarize the extensive studies on the physiological function of GAs in anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, radiation protection, anti-aging, liver protection, anti-microbial, and neuroprotection areas, among others. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the bioactivities and pharmacological mechanisms of GAs, aiming to delineate the current research directions and the state of the art in this field. This analysis helps to rapidly identify new bioactivities of GAs and understand their mechanisms, leading to more effective treatments for various diseases.

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

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

MATERIAL AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Ganoderic Acid A prevents bone loss in lipopolysaccharide-treated male rats by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory

Ganoderic Acid A (GAA) has demonstrated beneficial effects in anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress studies. However, it remains unknown whether GAA exerts positive impacts on bone loss induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This study aims to investigate the influence of GAA on bone loss in LPS-treated rats. The study assesses changes in the viability and osteogenic potential of MC3T3-E1 cells, as well as osteoclast differentiation in RAW264.7 cells in the presence of LPS using CCK-8, ALP staining, AR staining, and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. In vitro experiments indicate that LPS-induced inhibition of osteoclasts (OC) and Superoxide Dismutase 2 (SOD2) correlates with heightened levels of inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, GAA has displayed the ability to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation, enhance osteogenic differentiation, and suppress osteoclast differentiation. Animal experiment also proves that GAA notably upregulates SOD2 expression and downregulates TNF-α expression, leading to the restoration of impaired bone metabolism, improved bone strength, and increased bone mineral density. The collective experimental findings strongly suggest that GAA can enhance osteogenic activity in the presence of LPS by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, hindering osteoclast differentiation, and mitigating bone loss in LPS-treated rat models.

Metabolomics Reveals Glycerophospholipids, Peptides, and Flavonoids Contributing to Breast Meat Flavor and Benefit Properties of Beijing-You Chicken

Unique metabolites contribute to the performance of meat flavor and potential function. In this study, UHPLC-Q Exactive HF-X-based metabolomics and multivariate analysis were applied to explore the characteristic metabolites in the breast meat of Beijing-You chicken (BYC) aged 150, 300, and 450 days (D150, D300, and D450). Based on the criteria of variable importance in the projection (VIP) > 1 and p < 0.05, a total of 154 and 97 differential metabolites (DMs) were screened out compared with D450 (D450 vs. D150, D450 vs. D300), respectively. In general, the relative content of carnosine, L-L-homoglutathione, demethyloleuropein, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, 7-chloro-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3,5-dihydroxy-6,8-dimethoxy-4H-chromen-4-one, glycerophospholipids, exhibited the highest abundance at D450, while balenine, anserine, L-beta-aspartyl-L-leucine, glutathione, oxidized glutathione, stearoylcarnitine, ganoderic acid alpha, oleuroside, Lysoglycerophospholipid species (LGP) presented a downward trend with age. These 210 DMs were involved in 10 significantly enriched pathways related to the synthesis and metabolism of amino acids, peptides, and glycerophospholipid, such as glutathione metabolism, histidine metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, and lysine degradation. In conclusion, this work could not only facilitate a better understanding of the differences of chicken flavor and benefit properties with age, but also provide potential valuable bioactive compounds for further research.

Trifluoperazine mitigates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in mice by modulating the AKT/mTOR-driven autophagy and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling cascades

AIM

This study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of the antipsychotic drug trifluoperazine (TFP) against cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced hepatic injury by exploring its effect on autophagy and the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

MAIN METHODS

The hepatotoxicity of CPA was assessed by biochemical analysis of the serum hepatotoxicity markers (ALT, AST, and direct bilirubin), histopathological examination, and ultrastructure analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The ELISA technique was used to assess the hepatic content of oxidative stress (MDA and SOD) and inflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α). Immunohistochemical assessment was used to investigate the hepatic expression of NF-κB, Nrf2, caspase-3, as well as autophagy flux markers (p62 and LC3B). The mRNA expression of HO-1 was assessed using RT-qPCR. Western blot assay was used to determine the expression of p-AKT and p-mTOR.

KEY FINDINGS

TFP improved CPA-induced hepatotoxicity by reducing the elevated hepatotoxicity markers, and alleviating the histopathological changes with improving ultrastructure alterations. It also reduced oxidative stress by reducing MDA content and upregulating SOD activity. In addition, it exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects by decreasing NF-κB expression, IL-1β, TNF-α levels, and caspase-3 expression. Furthermore, TFP-induced hepatoprotection was mediated by favoring Nrf2 expression and increasing the mRNA level of HO-1. As well, it improved autophagy by increasing LC3B expression concurrently with reducing p62 expression. Moreover, TFP modulated the AKT/mTOR pathway by reducing the expression of p-AKT and p-mTOR.

SIGNIFICANCE

TFP significantly protected against CPA-induced hepatotoxicity by upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling along with enhancement of protective autophagy via inhibition of the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Chemodiversity, pharmacological activity, and biosynthesis of specialized metabolites from medicinal model fungi Ganoderma lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum is a precious fungus, particularly valued for its dual use as both medicine and food. Ganoderic acids (GAs), the distinctive triterpenoids found in the Ganoderma genus, exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, the limited resources of GAs restrict their clinic usage and drug discovery. In this review, we presented a comprehensive summary focusing on the diverse structures and pharmacological activity of GAs in G. lucidum. Additionally, we discussed the latest advancements in the elucidation of GA biosynthesis, as well as the progress in heterosynthesis and liquid fermentation methods aimed at further increasing GA production. Furthermore, we summarized the omics data, genetic transformation system, and cultivation techniques of G. lucidum, described as medicinal model fungi. The understanding of Ganoderic acids chemodiversity and biosynthesis in medicinal model fungi Ganoderma lucidum will provide important insights into the exploration and utilization of natural products in medicinal fungi.

Optimization of the Flavonoid Extraction Process from the Stem and Leaves of Epimedium Brevicornum and Its Effects on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Renal Injury

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a broad-spectrum alkylated antitumor drug. It is clinically used in the treatment of a variety of cancers, and renal toxicity is one of the adverse reactions after long-term or repeated use, which not only limits the therapeutic effect of CTX, but also increases the probability of kidney lesions. The total flavonoids of Epimedium stem and leaf (EBF) and Icariin (ICA) are the main medicinal components of Epimedium, and ICA is one of the main active substances in EBF. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that EBF has a variety of biological activities such as improving osteoporosis, promoting cell proliferation, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, etc. However, few studies have been conducted on the nephrotoxicity caused by optimized CTX extraction, and protein-ligand binding has not been involved. This research, through the response surface optimization extraction of EBF, obtained the best extraction conditions: ethanol concentration was 60%, solid-liquid ratio of 25:1, ultrasonic time was about 25 min. Combined with mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, EBF contained ICA, ichopidin A, ichopidin B, ichopidin C, and other components. In this study, we adopted a computational chemistry method called molecular docking, and the results show that Icariin was well bound to the antioxidant target proteins KEAP1 and NRF2, and the anti-inflammatory target proteins COX-2 and NF-κB, with free binding energies of -9.8 kcal/mol, -11.0 kcal/mol, -10.0 kcal/mol, and -8.1 kcal/mol, respectively. To study the protective effect of EBF on the nephrotoxicity of CTX, 40 male Kunming mice (weight 18 ± 22) were injected with CTX (80 mg/kg) for 7 days to establish the nephrotoxicity model and were treated with EBF (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) for 8 days by gavage. After CTX administration, MDA, BUN, Cre, and IL-6 levels in serum increased, MDA increased in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 increased in liver, and IL-6 increased in spleen and was significant ((p < 0.05 or (p < 0.01)). Histopathological observation showed that renal cortex glomerular atrophy necrosis, medullary inflammatory cell infiltration, and other lesions. After administration of EBF, CTX-induced increase in serum level of related indexes was reduced, and MDA in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 in liver, and IL-6 in spleen were increased. At the same time, histopathological findings showed that the necrosis of medullary and corticorenal tubular epithelium was relieved at EBF (50 mg/kg) dose compared with the CTX group, and the glomerular tubular necrosis gradually became normal at EBF (100 mg/kg) dose. Western blot analysis of Keap1 and Nrf2 protein expression in kidney tissue showed that compared with model CTX group, the drug administration group could alleviate the high expression of Keap1 protein and low expression of Nrf2 protein in kidney tissue. Conclusion: After the optimal extraction of total flavonoids from the stems and leaves of Epimedium, the molecular docking technique combined with animal experiments suggested that the effective component of the total flavonoids of Epimedium might activate the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway after treatment to reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress of kidney tissue, so as to reduce kidney damage and improve kidney function. Therefore, EBF may become a new natural protective agent for CTX chemotherapy in the future.

Metabolomic Insights into the Mechanisms of Ganoderic Acid: Protection against α-Amanitin-Induced Liver Injury

α-Amanitin is a representative toxin found in the Amanita genus of mushrooms, and the consumption of mushrooms containing α-Amanitin can lead to severe liver damage. In this study, we conduct toxicological experiments to validate the protective effects of Ganoderic acid A against α-amanitin-induced liver damage. By establishing animal models with different durations of Ganoderic acid A treatment and conducting a metabolomic analysis of the serum samples, we further confirmed the differences in serum metabolites between the AMA+GA and AMA groups. The analysis of differential serum metabolites after the Ganoderic acid A intervention suggests that Ganoderic acid A may intervene in α-amanitin-induced liver damage by participating in the regulation of retinol metabolism, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, sphingosine biosynthesis, spermidine and spermine biosynthesis, and branched-chain amino acid metabolism. This provides initial insights into the protective intervention mechanisms of GA against α-amanitin-induced liver damage and offers new avenues for the development of therapeutic drugs for α-Amanitin poisoning.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 Attenuated Cyclophosphamide-Induced Liver Injury in Mice by Regulating the Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway

Cyclophosphamide causes side effects in cancer patients, including hepatotoxicity. Probiotics have recently emerged as potential approaches for the administration of many diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 against cyclophosphamide-induced liver injury and elucidate the underlying mechanism. In this study, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG were pre-administered to mice with varying duration (1 week, 2 weeks, and 3 weeks) before being intraperitoneally injected with cyclophosphamide at a dose of 30 mg/kg/day for 7 days to induce liver injury. Results demonstrated that cyclophosphamide-induced liver injury was characterized by histopathological disorders, including irregular central venous shape and hepatic vascular rupture, as well as a severe inflammation response and oxidative stress. The administration of probiotics for 3 weeks exerted the most significant improvements in alleviating liver injury, oxidative stress, and inflammation when compared to the shorter intervention duration. Notably, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 exhibited more pronounced effects than Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. Furthermore, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 enhanced the antioxidant defense system by activating the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, ultimately alleviating hepatotoxicity and hepatocyte apoptosis. In conclusion, this study highlighted the potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P101 to alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity.

Ganoderic Acid A and Its Amide Derivatives as Potential Anti-Cancer Agents by Regulating the p53-MDM2 Pathway: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation

The mechanisms of action of natural products and the identification of their targets have long been a research hotspot. Ganoderic acid A (GAA) is the earliest and most abundant triterpenoids discovered in Ganoderma lucidum. The multi-therapeutic potential of GAA, in particular its anti-tumor activity, has been extensively studied. However, the unknown targets and associated pathways of GAA, together with its low activity, limit in-depth research compared to other small molecule anti-cancer drugs. In this study, GAA was modified at the carboxyl group to synthesize a series of amide compounds, and the in vitro anti-tumor activities of the derivatives were investigated. Finally, compound A2 was selected to study its mechanism of action because of its high activity in three different types of tumor cell lines and low toxicity to normal cells. The results showed that A2 could induce apoptosis by regulating the p53 signaling pathway and may be involved in inhibiting the interaction of MDM2 and p53 by binding to MDM2 (K_D = 1.68 µM). This study provides some inspiration for the research into the anti-tumor targets and mechanisms of GAA and its derivatives, as well as for the discovery of active candidates based on this series.

Altered hallmarks of DNA double-strand breaks, oxidative DNA damage and cytogenotoxicity by piperlongumine in hippocampus and hepatocytes of rats intoxicated with cyclophosphamide

AIM

Cyclophosphamide is an effective anti-tumor agent, however, it induces genomic instability and tissue toxicity in clinical application. This study aims to evaluate the action of piperlongumine against cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity.

MAIN METHODS

The action was investigated in rodent model of genomic instability, where piperlongumine (50 mg/kg) was orally co-administered with cyclophosphamide (5 mg/kg) for 28 days to Wistar albino rats. Further, piperlongumine was also examined for acute and sub-acute toxicity.

KEY FINDINGS

Piperlongumine significantly reversed genotoxicity in high-proliferation tissue (bone marrow: p < 0.05) as well as in vital tissues (hippocampus: p < 0.01 and hepatocytes: p < 0.05), calculated as micronuclei formation and %DNA fragmentation. It also restored the redox homeostasis, counteracted the formation of oxidative DNA damage product and DNA double-strand break in vital tissues, indicated by reduction of 8-OHdG and γH2AX. TUNEL assay revealed that piperlongumine diminished the cyclophosphamide-associated apoptotic cell death in hippocampus as well as in liver tissue and conferred cytoprotection to the host. These findings were finally corroborated with the histopathological findings, where piperlongumine treatment restored the cellular viability of liver and hippocampus. Further, piperlongumine did not produce any toxic effects to rats in systemic toxicity studies.

SIGNIFICANCE

Piperlongumine possesses genome stabilizing effect and reduces cyclophosphamide-associated DNA damage, oxidative stress, hepato-, and neurotoxicity, diminishes the DNA damage response pathway in the rat model, at the same time, conserves the micro-architectural details of liver and hippocampus. The findings are significant in terms of reducing genotoxic impact of chemotherapy-receiving patients.

Salvianolic acid B suppresses hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway via miR-6499-3p/LncRNA-ROR

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNAs) have been reported to play an important role in liver fibrosis and are closely associated with hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. We previously found that salvianolic acid B (Sal B) improves liver fibrosis by regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. However, whether the LncRNA, regulator of reprogramming (LncRNA-ROR) plays a role in Sal B-mediated anti-fibrosis effects via the NF-κB signaling pathway remain unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Sal B on HSC activation and liver fibrosis and investigate its mechanism from the perspective of LncRNA-ROR-mediated NF-κB signaling pathways.

METHODS

LX-2 and T6 cell lines were cultured. Animal models of liver fibrosis were established using CCl4 in male BALB/c mice. Primary HSCs were isolated from mice and cultured. Serum biochemical and liver histological analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of Sal B on liver fibrosis. The index of HSC activation and the expression of LncRNA-ROR, microRNAs (miRNAs), and inflammatory factors were determined by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or immunofluorescence staining. Cell proliferation was measured by a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). NF-κB signaling-associated protein levels were assessed using western blotting or immunofluorescence staining. A luciferase reporter assay was used to detect transcription activity.

RESULTS

In this study, a lower level of LncRNA-ROR was found during Sal B attenuating HSC activation in HSCs. Mechanistically, Sal B impeded the NF-κB signaling pathway to inhibit HSC proliferation and activation by downregulating LncRNA-ROR. Additionally, Sal B upregulated miR-6499-3p to target LncRNA-ROR for degradation. Functionally, Sal B treatment ameliorated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting HSC activation.

CONCLUSION

Sal B suppresses HSC activation and liver fibrosis via regulation of miR-6499-3p/LncRNA-ROR-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway. These results reveal a new molecular mechanism of Sal B on liver fibrosis from the insight of LncRNAs.

Study on Quality Control of Compound Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Compound Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. (A. roxburghii) oral liquid (CAROL) is a hospital preparation of A. roxburghii and Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum), which have hepatoprotective effects. Eight active components (five nucleosides/nucleobases and three triterpenoid acids) in CAROL, A. roxburghii, and G. lucidum were simultaneously detected by high-performance liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry (LC−MS/MS). The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was applied for the detection of analytes. These eight compounds were separated well within 12 min and quantified using the internal standard working curve method. The method showed good linearity (R2 > 0.9935) and high sensitivity (limit of detection = 0.29 ng/mL). The analyte recovery ranged from 85.07% to 97.50% (relative standard deviation < 3.31%). The content of the target analytes in four batches of CAROL, and the raw materials of G. lucidum and A. roxburghii from the five regions was determined using this method. The contents of guanosine and ganoderic acid A in four batches of oral liquid were high and stabilized and could be recommended as quality markers (Q-marker) for CAROL. Simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of nucleosides and triterpenoid acids in CAROL, A. roxburghii, and G. lucidum by LC−MS/MS based on the MRM model was reported for the first time. The proposed method provides a sensitive, rapid, and reliable approach for the quality control of Chinese medicinal products.

Ganoderic Acid A alleviates the degeneration of intervertebral disc via suppressing the activation of TLR4/NLRP3 signaling pathway

As a multifactorial disease, intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) causes many spinal-related diseases, which causes disability in the workforce and heavy social costs all over the world. Recently, Ganoderic Acid A (GAA) has been reported to play many pharmacological effects. However, its effect on IVDD remains unclear. In the present study, our study determined that GAA significantly inhibited H₂O₂ induced apoptosis, release of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress mediators in the nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Moreover, GAA also suppressed H₂O₂ induced major matrix degrading proteases (MMP-3, MMP-13, ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5) associated with NP degradation. Additionally, we found NP protective ability of GAA by up-regulating extra cellular matrix anabolic factors like type II collagen (Col II) and aggrecan in NP cells. Furthermore, we also demonstrated that GAA suppressed the activation of TLR4/NLRP3 in H₂O₂-stimulated NP cells. Thus, our results demonstrate that GAA inhibited the H₂O₂ induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses through the depression of TLR4/NLRP3 signaling axis. GAA possess NP protective properties and may be of value in suppressing the pathogenesis of IVDD.

Ganoderic acid A ameliorates non‑alcoholic streatohepatitis (NASH) induced by high‑fat high‑cholesterol diet in mice

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is becoming a huge global health problem. Previous studies have revealed that ganoderic acids have hepatoprotective and hypocholesterolemic effects. In the present study, to evaluate the anti-NASH activity of ganoderic acid A (GAA), male 6-week-old C57BL/6J mice were divided into the following four groups, which were administered different diets: Normal diet (ND group), high-fat high-cholesterol diet (HFHC group), HFHC diet supplemented with 25 mg/kg/day (GAAL group) or 50 mg/kg/day of GAA (GAAH group). After 12 weeks of GAA treatment, histopathological results revealed that compared with that of the HFHC group, GAA significantly inhibited fat accumulation, steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis in the liver. GAA effectively reduced serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels compared with the HFHC model. Furthermore, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-responsive proteins, including glucose-regulated protein 78, phosphorylated (p)-eukaryotic initiation factor-2α and p-JNK, were significantly suppressed by GAA, while ERp57, p-MAPK and p-AKT were significantly increased after GAA treatment. Taken together, it was concluded that GAA could resist HFHC diet-induced NASH. In terms of its underlying mechanism, GAA could improve liver inflammation and fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic oxidative stress and the ER stress response induced by HFHC.

Betulinic acid attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced intestinal mucosa injury by inhibiting the NF-κB/MAPK signalling pathways and activating the Nrf2 signalling pathway

Betulinic acid (BA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid, has been associated with several biological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. Previous studies have demonstrated that BA has the ability to alleviate intestinal mucosal damage, however, the potential mechanism associated with the effect has not been reported. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective mechanism of BA against cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced intestinal mucosal damage. Here, we found that BA pretreatment prevented intestinal mucosal barrier dysfuction from CYP-challenged mice by repairing the intestinal physical, chemical, and immune barriers. Moreover, BA treatment suppressed the CYP-induced oxidative stress by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2 [NF-E2]-related factor (Nrf2) pathway blocked reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. In addition, BA inhibited CYP-triggered intestinal inflammation through down-regulating the nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB)/mitogen-activating protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Furthermore, BA pretreatment reduced intestinal apoptosis by blocking ROS-activated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Overall, the current study demonstrated the protective effect of BA against CYP-caused intestinal mucosal damage by regulating the Nrf2 and NF-κB/MAPK signalling pathways, which may provide new therapeutic targets to attenuate intestinal impairment and maintain intestinal health.

Ganoderic Acid A Attenuates IL-1β-Induced Inflammation in Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells Through Inhibiting the NF-κB Pathway

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major cause of low back pain associated with several pathological changes in the IVD, including dysfunction of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Ganoderic Acid A (GAA), one of triterpenoid extracts of Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum), has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory effect. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of Ganoderic Acid A (GAA) on the interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced inflammation in human NP cells. Our results showed that the IL-1β-stimulated production of inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were suppressed by GAA. In addition, treatment of NP cells with GAA significantly inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in IL-1β-stimulated human NP cells. GAA improved the reduced expression levels of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, collagen II and aggrecan in IL-1β-stimulated human NP cells. GAA also alleviated IL-1β-induced the levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and MMP-13. Furthermore, GAA inhibited the IL-1β-induced upregulation of the phosphorylation of p65 and downregulation of IκBα. Taken together, these findings indicated that GAA alleviated IL-1β-induced inflammation and ECM degradation in NP cells through regulating NF-κB pathway.

Ganoderic Acids Prevent Renal Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Inflammation and Apoptosis

Renal ischemia reperfusion injury (RIRI) is one of the main causes of acute kidney injury (AKI), which can lead to acute renal failure. The development of RIRI is so complicated that it involves many factors such as inflammatory response, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. Ganoderic acids (GAs), as one of the main pharmacological components of Ganoderma lucidum, have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other pharmacological effects. The study is aimed to investigate the protective effect of GAs on RIRI and explore related underlying mechanisms. The mechanisms involved were assessed by a mouse RIRI model and a hypoxia/reoxygenation model. Compared with sham-operated group, renal dysfunction and morphological damages were relieved markedly in GAs-pretreatment group. GAs pretreatment could reduce the production of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-6, COX-2 and iNOS induced by RIRI through inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB signaling pathway. Furthermore, GAs reduced cell apoptosis via the decrease of the ratios of cleaved caspase-8 and cleaved caspase-3. The experimental results suggest that GAs prevent RIRI by alleviating tissue inflammation and apoptosis and might be developed as a candidate drug for preventing RIRI-induced AKI.

Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects of ganoderic acid A on carbon tetrachloride induced nephrotoxicity by regulating the Trx/TrxR and JAK/ROCK pathway

Ganoderic acid A (GAA), one of the major triterpenoid components extracted from Ganoderma mushroom has been shown to possess numerous important pharmacological activities. The present study was aimed to investigate the mechanisms of GAA on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced kidney inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress in mice. The male mice were treated with 25 and 50 mg/mg GAA after stimulated with CCl4. Our results showed that GAA improved renal damage by decreasing the serum levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid and alleviating kidney fibrosis. GAA ameliorated CCl4-induced indices of inflammation. GAA suppressed oxidative stress by regulating the glutathione antioxidant system and the thioredoxin antioxidant system. GAA increased the activations of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), Trx, GSH, SOD, GPx. Furthermore, GAA supplementation inhibited the JAK and STAT3 pathway. GAA inhibited the activations of RhoA, ROCK, NF-κB, TGF-β and Smad3. Thus, this study demonstrated that GAA possesses immune-protective properties through regulating the Trx/TrxR, JAK2/STAT3 and RhoA/ROCK pathways.

PADI4 mediates autophagy and participates in the role of ganoderic acid A monomers in delaying the senescence of Alzheimer's cells through the Akt/mTOR pathway

The effects of PADI4 and GAA on the senescence of Alzheimer's cells were explored in the present work. HT22 cells were treated with Aβ25-35 to establish an Alzheimer's model and were then treated with different concentrations of GAA and transfected with a siPADI4 lentiviral vector. GAA could reverse the effects of Aβ25-35 on inhibiting cell viability and promoting apoptosis and senescence. siPADI4 reduced Aβ25-35-induced cell viability and upregulated Aβ25-35-induced cell apoptosis and senescence, as well as partially reversed the effect of GAA on cells, and these results were confirmed by detecting the expressions of senescence- and apoptosis-related proteins. In addition, siPADI4 was found to promote the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR, which was partially reversed by GAA. In conclusion, PADI4 mediates autophagy and participates in the role of GAA monomers in delaying the senescence of Alzheimer's cells through the Akt/mTOR pathway.

Ganoderic acid A exerted antidepressant-like action through FXR modulated NLRP3 inflammasome and synaptic activity

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common, chronic, recurrent disease. The existing drugs are ineffective for approximately half of patients, so the development of antidepressant drugs with novel mechanisms is urgent. Cumulative evidence has shown neuro-inflammation plays a key role in the etiology of major depressive disorder. Clinical studies implicated that bile acids, an important component of gut-brain axis, inhibit neuro-inflammation and mediate the pathophysiology of the MDD. Here, we found that ganoderic acid A (GAA) modulated bile acid receptor FXR (farnesoid X receptor), inhibited brain inflammatory activity, and showed antidepressant effects in the chronic social defeat stress depression model, tail suspension, forced swimming, and sucrose preference tests. GAA directly inhibited the activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome, and activated the phosphorylation and expression of the AMPA receptor by modulating FXR in the prefrontal cortex of mice. If we knocked out FXR or injected the FXR-specific inhibitor z-gugglesterone (GS), the antidepressant effects induced by GAA were completely abolished. These results suggest that GAA modulates the bile acid receptor FXR and subsequently regulates neuroimmune and antidepressant behaviors. GAA and its receptor FXR have potential as targets for the treatment of MDD.

Ganoderic Acid A Attenuates LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation in BV2 Microglia by Activating Farnesoid X Receptor

Neuroinflammation plays an important role in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation have been proved to be the main reason for causing the neurodegenerative diseases. Ganoderic acid A (GAA), isolated from Ganoderma lucidum, showed anti-inflammatory effect in metabolism diseases. However, little research has been focused on the effect of GAA in neuroinflammation and the related mechanism. In the present study, lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory capacity of GAA. Our data showed that GAA significantly suppressed LPS-induced BV2 microglial cells proliferation and activation in vitro. More strikingly, GAA promoted the conversion of BV2 microglial cells from M1 status induced by LPS to M2 status. Furthermore, GAA inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokines release and promoted neurotrophic factor BDNF expression in LPS-induced BV2 microglial cells. Finally, we found that the expression of farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) was prominently downregulated in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells, antagonism of FXR with z-gugglesterone and FXR siRNA can reverse the effect of GAA in LPS-induced BV2 microglial cells. Taking together, our findings demonstrate that GAA can significantly inhibit LPS-induced neuroinflammation in BV2 microglial cells via activating FXR receptor.

Ligustrazine alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity via the inhibition of Txnip/Trx/NF-κB pathway

AIMS

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a common therapeutic drug for cancer, but exposure to CP can cause acute hepatotoxicity. This study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of Ligustrazine (2, 3, 5, 6-tetramethylpyrazine, TMP) on hepatotoxicity induced by CP or its active metabolite 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4-HC).

MAIN METHODS

We presented a comprehensive investigation about the hepatoprotection of TMP on CP-induced mice and 4-HC-treated HSC-LX2 cells. Liver function was detected via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hepatic histopathology analysis was performed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining. Survival of hepatocytes was detected by TUNEL assay. Related proteins in the thioredoxin (Trx)-interacting protein (Txnip)/Trx/Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were measured by western blotting.

KEY FINDINGS

The results indicated that CP or 4-HC could increase the levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, enhance inflammatory factors and oxidative indicators, and suppress the activity of oxidoreductases. Moreover, significant changes in liver histological structure, fibrosis, and cell death were observed through the activation of Txnip/Trx/NF-κB pathway. In contrast, administration of TMP significantly reversed these above changes. Furthermore, TMP intervention participated in the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome accompanied with pyroptosis, as well as upregulating Trx expression and downregulating p-NF-κB, while the protective effect of TMP was limited to the involvement of Txnip overexpression.

SIGNIFICANCE

TMP treatment could significantly alleviate the hepatotoxicity process as evidenced by improving the structure and function of the liver, inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation accompanied with pyroptosis, which was positively correlated with the inhibition of Txnip/Trx/NF-κB pathway.

Implications of Breast Cancer Chemotherapy-Induced Inflammation on the Gut, Liver, and Central Nervous System

Breast Cancer is still one of the most common cancers today; however, with advancements in diagnostic and treatment methods, the mortality and survivorship of patients continues to decrease and increase, respectively. Commonly used treatments today consist of drug combinations, such as doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide; docetaxel, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide; or doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and paclitaxel. Although these combinations are effective at destroying cancer cells, there is still much to be understood about the effects that chemotherapy can have on normal organ systems such as the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and the liver. Patients can experience symptoms of cognitive impairments or “chemobrain”, such as difficulty in concentrating, memory recollection, and processing speed. They may also experience gastrointestinal (GI) distress symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, as well as hepatotoxicity and long term liver damage. Chemotherapy treatment has also been shown to induce peripheral neuropathy resulting in numbing, pain, and tingling sensations in the extremities of patients. Interestingly, researchers have discovered that this array of symptoms that cancer patients experience are interconnected and mediated by the inflammatory response.

Nerolidol protects the liver against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatic inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis via modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB p65, and caspase-3 signaling molecules in Swiss albino mice

Cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced hepatotoxic manifestations are major concern for patients undergoing chemotherapy, which often limit its therapeutic utility. Nerolidol (NER) is a natural bioactive molecule having potent gonadoprotective, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties but has not been explored for its hepatoprotective effect and underlying mechanism. Therefore, in the current study hepatoprotective potential of nerolidol was studied in CP-induced hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis via modulation of Nrf2, NF-κB p65, caspase-3, TGF-β1, and associated biochemical status in Swiss albino mice. NER (200, 400 mg/kg, p.o) and fenofibrate (FF) 80 mg/kg, p.o. were administered from first to fourteenth day and CP was administered at the dose of 200 mg/kg, i.p on seventh day. On fifteenth day, animals were sacrificed and estimation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, histopathology (H E and MT staining), and immunohistochemistry was performed in the liver tissue. Administration of NER effectively normalized the elevated level of hepatic injury markers (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase), marker of oxidative stress that is, malondialdehyde, inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10), NF-κB p65, apoptotic marker (cleaved caspase 3) and increased the level of Nrf2 and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, CAT, and glutathione). Treatment with NER further reduced the structural damage of hepatocytes and markers of hepatic fibrosis such as TGF-β1, hyaluronic acid, 4-hydroxyproline and collagen-rich stained area, estimated by MT staining. Findings of the current study showed that nerolidol exhibited potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-fibrotic potential and thus acted as hepatoprotective agent. Present study represents novel mechanism of nerolidol against CP-induced hepatotoxicity. However, further studies are needed to use nerolidol as an adjuvant in chemotherapeutically treated patients.

Ameliorating Effect of Pentadecapeptide Derived from Cyclina sinensis on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a widely used anticancer drug with severe nephrotoxicity. The pentadecapeptide (RVAPEEHPVEGRYLV) from Cyclina sinensis (SCSP) has been shown to affect immunity and to protect the liver. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the ameliorating effect of SCSP on CTX-induced nephrotoxicity in mice. We injected male ICR mice with CTX (80 mg/kg·day) and measured the nephrotoxicity indices, levels of antioxidant enzymes, malondialdehyde (MDA), inflammatory factors, as well as the major proteins of the NF-κB and apoptotic pathways. Cyclophosphamide induced kidney injury; the levels of kidney-injury indicators and cytokines recovered remarkably in mice after receiving SCSP. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) increased, while there was a significant decrease in MDA levels. The kidney tissue damage induced by CTX was also repaired to a certain extent. In addition, SCSP significantly inhibited inflammatory factors and apoptosis by regulating the NF-κB and apoptotic pathways. Our study shows that SCSP has the potential to ameliorate CTX-induced nephrotoxicity and may be used as a therapeutic adjuvant to ameliorate CTX-induced nephrotoxicity.

Protective effect of Ganoderic acid A on adjuvant-induced arthritis

The purpose of the experiment was to explore the effect of Ganoderic acid A (GAA) on adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats. In this study, the rat model of collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis (CIA) was established with type II collagen plus Freund's complete adjuvant. Arthritis index, joint pathology, toe swelling, hemorheology, synovial cell apoptosis, related cytokines and JAK3/STAT3 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway were measured in rats. We found that GAA can significantly inhibit the arthritis index, improve joint pathology, reduce toe swelling, improve blood rheology, improve synovial cell apoptosis, and restore related cytokine negative regulation JAK3/STAT3 and NF-κB signaling pathways. In conclusion, GAA has an obvious therapeutic effect on joint inflammation of toes in CIA model rats, which may be due to the regulation of JAK3/STAT3 and NF-κB signaling pathway.

Ganoderic acid A alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats by regulating JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway

This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of GanodericacidA (GA) on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MIR) injury. The myocardial injury model in rats was established by ligating left anterior descending coronary artery. We measured cardiac hemodynamic, antioxidant enzyme activity, and various biochemical indexes of myocardial tissue, and evaluated myocardial infarction and damage. Further, the expression of JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins in myocardial tissue was measured by western blot. The results showed that the myocardial infarction extention was obviously reduced upon GA treatment. Compared with the control group, ischemia-reperfusion rats showed significant increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine Kinase (CK), which were significantly decreased in GA group. Besides, GA pretreatment effectively decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum. The phosphorylation of Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2), signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3)and Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in reperfusion group were significantly higher than that in control group, which were reversed upon GA treatment. In conclusion, GA may reduce myocardial injury by regulating JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway.

Components identification and nutritional value exploration of tea (Camellia sinensis L.) flower extract: Evidence for functional food

Camellia sinensis L., its fresh leaves and buds are used to make tea, is an important industrial crop with a long history. However, less attention has been paid to tea flowers. Indeed, tea flower extract (TFE) is a rich source of functional molecules, but its nutritional value remains unclear. This study, from the perspective of "whole food", aimed to investigate the composition of TFE and further explore its possible health-promoting effects on cyclophosphamide-induced mice. It was found that TFE was mainly composed of carbohydrates (34.02 ± 1.42%), phenolic compounds (11.57 ± 0.14%), crude proteins (27.72 ± 3.07%) and saponins (2.81 ± 0.00%). Supplementation of TFE at 200 mg/kg·BW/d regulated intestinal homeostasis by improving the intestinal barrier, alleviating dysbacteriosis (reverse 44 of 68 disordered genera), stimulated immunoreactions with significant enhancement of serum TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-6. Furthermore, TFE could improve the liver function through decreasing the hepatic malondialdehyde and aminotransferase levels and increasing the levels of catalase, myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione. Notably, the ameliorating effects of TFE on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression and the hepatic injury were associated with its modulation of gut microbiota. The results provide the evidence for the application of tea flower as potential functional food.

Ganoderic acid A holds promising cytotoxicity on human glioblastoma mediated by incurring apoptosis and autophagy and inactivating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Ganoderic acid A (GA-A), recognized as a lanostanetriterpene isolated from Ganoderma lucidum, demonstrates an efficient antitumor activity in multiple cancers. To date, it is unclear whether and how GA-A functions on human glioblastoma (GBM). To unravel the functional significance of GA-A on human glioblastoma (GBM), the cell-counting kit-8 and transwell assays were used to detect proliferation, migration, and invasion of human GBM cell after GA-A treatment. Then, we utilized the flow cytometry and western blot to further evaluate the effect of GA-A on GBM cell. Further, activities of autophagy and PI3K/AKT signaling were assessed by Western blot assay. We found that GA-A significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of GBM cell. Additionally, GA-A markedly triggered cell apoptosis, which incarnated an elevation trend in apoptotic percentage, simultaneously, an increased level of proapoptosis protein (Bax and active caspase-3) and a decreased level of antiapoptosis protein (Bcl-2), induced by GA-A treatment. Meanwhile, levels of two well-known autophagy markers (beclin 1 and LC3 II) increased while another autophagic substrate (P-62) was reduced. Moreover, the expressions levels of phosphorylated AKT, mTOR, p-P70S6K, and cyclin D1 in the PI3K/AKT pathway were significantly reduced, which revealed GA-A repressed the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Collectively, these results indicate that GA-A may encourage U251 cell growth and invasion/migration inhibition, apoptosis, and autophagy through the inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in human GBM. Hence, GA-A may be a potent antitumorigenic agent for human GBM in future clinical practice.