Advance in the pharmacological effects of quercetin in modulating oxidative stress and inflammation related disorders

Coaxially fabricated electrospinning near-infrared light-responsive nanofibrous membranes for combating drug-resistant bacteria

Nowadays, the rapid emergence of drug-resistant bacteria has posed a global threat to the public health, leading to increased cost of environmental hygiene and healthcare treatment, which urges the development of safe and efficient antibacterial strategies. Here, coaxially fabricated electrospun nanofibrous membrane (ENMs) consisted of quercetin (Qu) stabilized selenium nanoparticles (Qu@SeNPs) and electro-synthesized molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets were facilely formed as core/shell structure with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and α-Lipoic acid (LA) as cross-linker. The obtained ENMs formed by core-shell PVA/MoS2/LA/Qu@SeNPs (PMLQS) showed good air permeability and near-infrared-light photothermal responsiveness to kill bacteria efficiently. Moreover, the obtained ENMs resembling extracellular matrix-like properties showed superior biocompatibility with negligible development toxicity of zebrafish. The antibacterial experiments indicated that the produced PMLQS fibrous membrane exhibited more pronounced bactericidal activity against Gram-positive (G+) Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) as compared to that of Gram-negative (G-) Escherichia coli (E. coli). Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis revealed MRSA inactivation by PMLQS ENMs involved disruption of ion transport, antioxidant system, carbohydrate metabolism and energy metabolism. Notably, the MRSA ADI pathway was also blocked supporting the minimized antibiotic resistance development. Therefore, the constructed near-infrared light-responsive PMLQS nanofibrous membrane held promise in tackling drug-resistant bacteria with enormous environmental and biomedical utilizations.

The Effects of Quercetin on Vascular Endothelium, Inflammation, Cardiovascular Disease and Lipid Metabolism-A Review

Quercetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid of plant origin. This naturally occurring polyphenolic compound is generally known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been reported to be a factor in improving the antioxidant defense system, lipid metabolism, and reducing the incidence of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. In this article, we will take a closer look at quercetin-what it is, what properties it has, what health benefits it can bring, and in which products it can be found. Thanks to its wide spectrum of action, quercetin is gaining popularity as an ingredient in dietary supplements, as well as an element of a healthy diet supporting overall health.

Multi-target mechanisms and potential applications of quercetin in the treatment of acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris, a prevalent inflammatory dermatosis, afflicts approximately 90% of adolescents globally. Despite the efficacy of conventional therapies, including antibiotics and retinoids, their use is frequently limited by adverse effects and the emergence of drug resistance. Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, has garnered significant attention owing to its diverse biological activities, encompassing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. This review comprehensively explores the multi-target mechanisms of quercetin in the treatment of acne, focusing on its ability to modulate inflammatory cytokine production, oxidative stress pathways, sebaceous gland activity, and microbial populations. Additionally, quercetin promotes skin barrier repair and reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring through its antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects. Despite promising in vitro and preclinical findings, challenges such as quercetin's low bioavailability and lack of robust clinical evidence necessitate further research. Advanced delivery systems, including nanoparticles and combination therapies, may optimize its therapeutic potential. This review provides insights into the molecular mechanisms and clinical applications of quercetin, highlighting its potential as a safe and effective alternative for acne management.

Unbiased Metabolomic and Chemometric profiles of three Sargassum polycystum extracts using GCMS and LCMS/MS: content analysis, correlation analysis and molecular docking

Sargassum polycystum (S. polycystum) is a brown macroalga with a high phytochemical content, making it a nutritious and bioactive food source. However, information on factors contributing to health benefits, like antioxidants and cytotoxicity, is less explored for Malaysian S. polycystum. In this study, three extracts of S. polycystum were characterized using a combination of analytical techniques. Despite similar carbohydrate content across all extracts, water extract exhibited the highest protein [21.90 ± 1.01 albumin equivalent (μg/mg)] and phenolic [7.73 ± 1.95 gallic acid equivalent (μg/mg)] contents. However, it displayed the lowest antioxidant and anticancer activities [half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of > 2000 μg/mL]. Interestingly, ethanolic extract demonstrated the strongest scavenging activity (IC50 of 397.90 ± 20.43 μg/mL) and selective anticancer activity against MCF7 breast cancer cells (IC50 of 338.63 ± 48.98 μg/mL). Untargeted metabolomic profiling confirmed the differences in the chemical composition of the extracts. Subsequently, correlation and docking analyses were used to identify the potential bioactive compounds within the extracts. The ethanolic extract is a rich source of these bioactive compounds with superior antioxidant and anticancer properties, highlighting the need for further research on its potential utility in the food industry.

Poria cocos: traditional uses, triterpenoid components and their renoprotective pharmacology

Poria cocos and its surface layer of Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf (Polyporaceae), are used in traditional Chinese medicine for its diuretic and renoprotective effects. Phytochemical studies have shown that lanostane and 3,4-seco-lanostane tetracyclic triterpenoids are the main components of P. cocos and its surface layer. Accumulating evidence shows that triterpenoid components in P. cocos and its surface layer contribute to their renoprotective effect. The surface layer of P. cocos showed a stronger diuretic effect than P. cocos. The ethanol extract of the surface layer and its components improved acute kidney injury, acute kidney injury-to-chronic kidney disease transition and chronic kidney disease such as diabetic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome and tubulointerstitial nephropathy, and protected against renal fibrosis. It has been elucidated that P. cocos and its surface layer exert a diuretic effect and improve kidney diseases through a variety of molecular mechanisms such as aberrant pathways TGF-β1/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, IκB/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling as well as the activation of renin-angiotensin system, matrix metalloproteinases, aryl hydrocarbon receptor and endogenous metabolites. These studies further confirm the renoprotective effect of P. cocos and its surface layer and provide a beneficial basis to its clinical use in traditional medicine.

Modulating oxidative stress: a reliable strategy for coping with community-acquired pneumonia in older adults

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains one of the leading respiratory diseases worldwide. With the aging of the global population, the morbidity, criticality and mortality rates of CAP in older adults remain high every year. Modulating the signaling pathways that cause the inflammatory response and improve the immune function of patients has become the focus of reducing inflammatory damage in the lungs, especially CAP in older adults. As an important factor that causes the inflammatory response of CAP and affects the immune status of the body, oxidative stress plays an important role in the occurrence, development and treatment of CAP. Furthermore, in older adults with CAP, oxidative stress is closely associated with immune senescence, sarcopenia, frailty, aging, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. Therefore, multiple perspectives combined with the disease characteristics of older adults with CAP were reviewed to clarify the research progress and application value of modulating oxidative stress in older adults with CAP. Clearly, there is no doubt that targeted modulation of oxidative stress benefits CAP in older adults. However, many challenges and unknowns concerning how to modulate oxidative stress for further practical clinical applications exist, and more targeted research is needed. Moreover, the limitations and challenges of modulating oxidative stress are analyzed with the aim of providing references and ideas for future clinical treatment or further research in older adults with CAP.

Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation Reveal Sishen Pill's Efficacy in Treating NSAID-Induced Small Intestinal Ulcers

Purpose

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used but often cause small intestinal ulcers (SIUs), for which effective therapies are lacking. Sishen Pill (SSP), a traditional Chinese medicine, shows therapeutic promise, yet its mechanisms remain unclear. This study integrates network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation to systematically investigate SSP's protective mechanisms against NSAID-induced SIUs.

Patients and Methods

Active SSP ingredients were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) and Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ETCM) databases. SIU-related targets were retrieved from GeneCards and DisGeNET. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed via STRING and Cytoscape, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Molecular docking (AutoDock Vina, PyMOL) validated ligand-target interactions. In vivo validation employed an indomethacin-induced SIU rat model to assess SSP's effects on ulcer severity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and PI3K/AKT signaling.

Results

We identified 66 bioactive SSP ingredients, 222 drug targets, and 144 SIU-related targets. Molecular docking revealed high binding affinity of SSP components (quercetin, bavachinin, rutaecarpine, evodiamine) to key targets (AKT1, HSP90AA1, IL6, MAPK1, BCL2). KEGG analysis highlighted the PI3K/AKT pathway as central. In vivo, SSP reduced ulcer indices, suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and attenuated oxidative stress. SSP also downregulated PI3K and AKT1 mRNA expression, confirming pathway modulation.

Conclusion

This study elucidates SSP's multi-target mechanism against NSAID-induced SIUs, emphasizing its role in suppressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and PI3K/AKT signaling. These findings provide a scientific foundation for SSP's clinical application and highlight its potential as a safe, effective alternative to conventional therapies.

Research advances in polyphenols from Chinese herbal medicine for the prevention and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a review

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a global health problem due to its high death and morbidity worldwide, which is characterized by an incompletely reversible limitation in airflow that is not fully reversible. Unfortunately, Western medical treatments are unable to reverse the progressive decline in lung function. Importantly, polyphenolic compounds isolated from Chinese herbal medicine exhibited therapeutic/interventional effects on COPD in preclinical studies. This review systematically analyzed the pathogenesis of COPD, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, protease/antiprotease imbalance, aging, cell death, and dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Moreover, this review summarized the regulatory mechanisms of natural polyphenolic compounds for the treatment of COPD. Several studies have demonstrated that natural polyphenolic compounds have therapeutic effects on COPD by regulating various biological processes, such as anti-inflammatory, reduction of oxidative damage, anti-cell death, and inhibition of airway hyperglycemia. Mechanistically, this review found that the promising effects of natural polyphenolic compounds on COPD were mainly achieved through modulating the NF-κB and MAPK inflammatory pathways, the Nrf2 oxidative stress pathway, and the SIRT1/PGC-1α lung injury pathway. Furthermore, this review analyzed the efficacy and safety of natural polyphenolic compounds for the treatment of COPD in clinical trials, and discussed their challenges and future development directions. In conclusion, this review combined the latest literature to illustrate the various pathogenesis and interrelationships of COPD in the form of graphs, texts, and tables, and sorted out the functional role and mechanisms of natural polyphenols in treating COPD, with a view to providing new ideas and plans for the in-depth research on COPD and the systemic treatment of COPD with Chinese herbal medicine.

Protective effects and mechanisms of quercetin in animal models of hyperuricemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Quercetin, a prevalent natural flavonoid found in various medicinal plants, including Dendrobium officinale Kimura & Migo, has garnered attention for its potential health benefits. However, foundational animal studies investigating the effects of quercetin on lowering uric acid levels remain insufficiently established, and the number of related clinical studies is limited. This scarcity hinders the practical application of quercetin in managing hyperuricemia. We systematically searched for preclinical studies published by December 2024 in nine databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. The results of our meta-analysis showed that, compared with the model group, quercetin not only effectively alleviated the pathological injury of the kidney and liver and improved the renal function indexes in the animal model of hyperuricemia but also played a role in lowering uric acid by modulating multiple signaling pathways such as oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and transporter proteins. Quercetin showed a more substantial effect in decreasing serum creatinine levels (SMD = -4.29, 95 % CI [-6.48, -2.10], P = 0.0001), blood urea nitrogen levels (SMD = -3.08, 95 % CI [-4.80, -1.35], P = 0.0005), and Up-regulate organic anion transporter 1 mRNA expression levels (SMD = 2.72, 95 %CI [0.45, 4.99], P = 0.02) compared to the positive control group. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the stability of the results, while the subgroup analysis indicates that the treatment course may be the main source of heterogeneity. The results of the Dose-efficacy analysis suggested that quercetin had a more substantial protective effect against hyperuricemia at a gavage dose of 100-200 mg/kg. However, to more accurately assess the effects of quercetin on hyperuricemia, it is essential to conduct additional high-quality, large-scale animal trials to validate our findings.

Preventing Oral Dual Biofilm Development with Innovative Bioactive Varnishes

This study introduces innovative varnishes incorporating natural bioactive compounds to inhibit the formation of oral dual biofilms, a critical contributor to dental caries and other oral diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bioactive varnishes containing tt-farnesol, quercetin, and theobromine in inhibiting the formation of mixed Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans biofilms. Mixed biofilms of Streptococcus mutans UA159 and Candida albicans SC5314 were grown in 96-well plates containing a specialized culture medium. Approximately 0.2 mL of experimental varnishes with A-1.5% or B-4.5% concentrations of tt-farnesol, quercetin, and theobromine were separately added to the wells using a disposable applicator, with a vehicle varnish (lacking bioactives) serving as the control. Biofilms were incubated at 37 °C with 5% CO2 for 24 h. Microbial viability was determined in terms of colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL), and biofilm morphology was evaluated qualitatively via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA/Tukey tests at a 5% significance level. Varnishes A and B achieved significant reductions in microbial populations within the biofilms (p < 0.05) compared to the vehicle control (C). SEM imaging revealed marked structural disruptions in the biofilms, validating the quantitative results. Higher bioactive concentrations demonstrated enhanced inhibitory effects. Bioactive varnishes enriched with theobromine, quercetin, and tt-farnesol represent a novel and effective strategy for inhibiting oral dual biofilm development, offering a promising advancement in preventive dentistry.

Inflammation-reducing thermosensitive hydrogel with photothermal conversion for skin cancer therapy

Photothermal therapy (PTT) has widely been utilized for postoperative treatment of skin cancer, while high temperature, usually >50 °C, would induce damage to healthy tissue and increased wound inflammation. Herein, we developed an "all in one" hydrogel to enhance mild PTT for postoperative skin cancer treatment while circumventing photothermo-induced inflammation by loading quercetin (Que)-coated tannin‑iron (TA-Fe) nanoparticles with poly (N-acrylylglycine) amine (PNAGA) hydrogel (Que@TA-Fe@PNAGA). Exposure to near-infrared light, Que.@TA-Fe@PNAGA occurred a mild temperature increase (∼47 °C), which induces local mild PTT and disrupts the hydrogen bonds within the hydrogel, triggering a gel-to-sol phase transition and the release of Que.@TA-Fe nanoparticles. These released nanoparticles inhibit the expression of heat shock proteins in tumor cells by producing reactive oxygen species and enter inflammatory cells to release TA and Que. via acid hydrolysis, reducing tumor necrosis factor-α expression by 66.6 % and promoting M1-to-M2 macrophage conversion. Based on this integrated functionality, Que.@TA-Fe@PNAGA hydrogel achieves over 99.4 % tumor inhibition rate, effectively avoids photothermo-induced damage in normal tissue and inflammation, and thus represents a new approach for postoperative photothermal therapy in skin cancer treatment.

Taxus chinensis (Pilg.) Rehder fruit attenuates aging behaviors and neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglia activation via TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As one of the important by-products of Taxus chinensis (Pilg.) Rehder, its fruit (TCF) has a sweet taste, which is commonly used in folklore to make health care wine reputed for enhancing immune function and promoting anti-aging effects, especially popular in the longevity villages of China for a long history. Evidences had showed that Taxus chinensis fruit contained polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids and terpenoids, which all were free of toxic compounds, but its medicinal value has not been fully recognized. Our previous studies have found that TCF extract may reverse many biological events, including oxidative stress, inflammatory response, neuronal apoptosis, etc. by in silico methods, suggesting potential avenues for future pharmaceutical exploration in aging and age-related diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Yet, the anti-aging properties of TCF have not been specifically studied, this study aims to fill this gap by investigating the effects of TCF extract (TCFE) in an aging mouse model, particularly focusing on its role in inhibiting microglial activation and elucidating its underlying anti-aging mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An aging mouse model was induced using D-galactose, with interventions involving high, medium, and low doses of TCFE compared to a positive control (2 mg/kg rapamycin combined with 100 mg/kg metformin). The methodology involved evaluating behavioral changes, serum oxidative and antioxidative markers, hypothalamic β-galactosidase activity, expression of the aging-related protein P63, serum inflammatory factors, and the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammatory pathway in hypothalamic tissues. Additionally, to strengthen our in vivo findings, we conducted in vitro experiments on LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. Finally, UPLC-MS/MS for precise component analysis using compound standards, coupled with molecular docking analyses, were employed to discern and elucidate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of TCF.

RESULTS

In vivo results revealed TCFE significantly ameliorated behavioral deficits, reduced oxidative stress markers (MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL1-β, IL-6, IFNg, TNFα, IL-17), and increased in antioxidants (SOD, T-AOC) and anti-inflammatory factors (IL-10). TCFE also reduced hypothalamic senescence, improved cellular integrity, lowered p63, and inhibited microglia activation and inflammatory pathways (TLR4, NFKB, NLRP3). The overall effect of TCFE was better than that of the positive drug group (rapamycin combined with metformin). In vitro results further revealed that TCFE markedly decreased IL1-β, NFKB, and TLR4 levels in BV2 microglial cells, showing comparable efficacy to a TLR4 classic positive inhibitor C34, supporting its anti-inflammatory role. Through UPLC-MS/MS analysis coupled with compound standards, we identified ten bioactive compounds, including gallocatechin, epigallocatechin, catechin, procyanidin B2, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, naringin, apigenin, ginkgetin. All these compounds showed strong binding affinity to TLR4, notably procyanidin B2 and rutin, potentially through hydrogen bonds, aromatic cation-π interactions, and hydrophobic interactions, suggesting a molecular basis for their anti-inflammatory action.

CONCLUSION

TCFE showed strong anti-aging effects by inhibiting microglia activation and lessening oxidative stress and modulating inflammatory pathways. This research supports TCF's use in anti-aging and sets a base for future drug development in the realms of neuroinflammation and aging.

Mechanisms Underlying Vascular Inflammaging: Current Insights and Potential Treatment Approaches

Inflammaging refers to chronic, low-grade inflammation that becomes more common with age and plays a central role in the pathophysiology of various vascular diseases. Key inflammatory mediators involved in inflammaging contribute to endothelial dysfunction and accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis. In addition, specific pathological mechanisms and the role of inflammasomes have emerged as critical drivers of immune responses within the vasculature. A comprehensive understanding of these processes may lead to innovative treatment strategies that could significantly improve the management of age-related vascular diseases. Emerging therapeutic approaches, including cytokine inhibitors, senolytics, and specialized pro-resolving mediators, aim to counteract inflammaging and restore vascular health. This review seeks to provide an in-depth exploration of the molecular pathways underlying vascular inflammaging and highlight potential therapeutic interventions.

The interplay of plant-based antioxidants, inflammation, and clinical outcomes in asthma: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease and a leading cause of disability, posing a huge economic and social burden. Plant-based antioxidants have the potential to block proinflammatory pathways and protect against oxidative damage, which could improve asthma management.

OBJECTIVE

This review examines the role of plant-based antioxidants as adjuvant therapy on inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes of adults with asthma.

METHODS

Digital databases, including Scopus, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Airway Group's Specialized Register of Trials, were searched. Two independent authors performed initial and full-text screening of identified papers. The criteria for study inclusion and exclusion were predefined. Two authors independently performed data extraction and risk of bias as per the PRISMA checklist.

RESULTS

After full-text screening, nine randomized controlled trials were included in the final review. Seven of the included studies highlighted the efficacy of plant-based antioxidants in modulating the inflammatory cytokines in asthmatics. The benefits of antioxidants were also observed for improving oxidative status, lung functioning, and airway inflammatory markers. Furthermore, the overall quality of asthmatic patients' lives was improved with fewer exacerbations such as night coughs and wheezing. Despite having some limitations, the overall risk of bias was low in this review.

CONCLUSION

The review indicated that plant-based antioxidants could have adjuvant beneficial effects in the management of asthma inflammatory markers, which may help improve asthma-related clinical outcomes. However, due to the small number of study subjects, further research is required on the effect of plant-based antioxidants on asthma-inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes.

Crosstalk between ROS-inflammatory gene expression axis in the progression of lung disorders

A significant number of deaths and disabilities worldwide are brought on by inflammatory lung diseases. Many inflammatory lung disorders, including chronic respiratory emphysema, resistant asthma, resistance to steroids, and coronavirus-infected lung infections, have severe variants for which there are no viable treatments; as a result, new treatment alternatives are needed. Here, we emphasize how oxidative imbalance contributes to the emergence of provocative lung problems that are challenging to treat. Endogenic antioxidant systems are not enough to avert free radical-mediated damage due to the induced overproduction of ROS. Pro-inflammatory mediators are then produced due to intracellular signaling events, which can harm the tissue and worsen the inflammatory response. Overproduction of ROS causes oxidative stress, which causes lung damage and various disease conditions. Invasive microorganisms or hazardous substances that are inhaled repeatedly can cause an excessive amount of ROS to be produced. By starting signal transduction pathways, increased ROS generation during inflammation may cause recurrent DNA damage and apoptosis and activate proto-oncogenes. This review provides information about new targets for conducting research in related domains or target factors to prevent, control, or treat such inflammatory oxidative stress-induced inflammatory lung disorders.

Development of novel osteoarthritis therapy by targeting AMPK-β-catenin-Runx2 signaling

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating chronic joint disease affecting large populations of patients, especially the elderly. The pathological mechanisms of OA are currently unknown. Multiple risk factors are involved in OA development. Among these risk factors, alterations of mechanical loading in the joint leading to changes in biological signaling pathways have been known as a key event in OA development. The importance of AMPK-β-catenin-Runx2 signaling in the initiation and progression of OA has been recognized in recent years. In this review, we discuss the recent progress in understanding the role of this signaling pathway and the underlying interaction mechanisms during OA development. We also discuss the drug development aiming to target this signaling pathway for OA treatment.

The immunotherapy mechanism of Hedyotis Diffusae Herba in treating liver cancer: a study based on network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental validation

Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that develops on or inside the liver. Hedyotis diffusa Willd (HDW) plays a significant role in anti-tumor activities; however, its mechanism against liver cancer remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the immunotherapeutic mechanism of HDW in treating liver cancer through network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and experimental validation. Network pharmacology was utilized to identify the active components and potential targets of HDW from the TCMSP database. A potential target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database, followed by function and pathway enrichment analysis of the targets using GO and KEGG methods. In addition, the key targets for HDW against liver cancer were identified using five different algorithms in Cytoscape. The TCGA and HPA databases were used to assess the mRNA and protein expression of core target genes in normal liver and liver cancer tissues and their relationship with overall survival in liver cancer, as well as their role in immune infiltration. Molecular docking between the core components of HDW and the core targets was performed using PyMOL software. The effects of HDW on the proliferation and apoptosis of liver cancer cells were examined using MTT and flow cytometry. The regulatory effects of the core component quercetin on core targets were validated using RT-qPCR and Western blot. A total of 163 potential targets were identified by searching for intersections among 7 types of active components and all potential and liver cancer targets. PPI network analysis revealed the core targets IL6 and TNF. GO enrichment analysis involved 2089 biological processes, 76 cellular components, and 196 molecular functions. KEGG enrichment analysis suggested that the anti-cancer effects of HDW might be mediated by the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and NF-κB signaling pathway. Database validation of key targets showed that mRNA and protein expression results for the IL6 gene were contradictory, while those for the TNF gene were consistent, both being underexpressed in liver cancer. Importantly, the expression of IL6 and TNF was related to the infiltration of 24 types of immune cells, with the highest correlation with macrophages. Molecular docking showed that IL6 and TNF had high binding stability with quercetin, with binding energies of - 7.4 and - 6.0 kJ∙mol-1, respectively. Experimental validation showed that quercetin inhibited liver cancer cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, with protein results indicating that quercetin downregulated the mRNA and protein expression of IL6 and TNF, and upregulated key proteins in the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, AGEs, and RAGE. This study comprehensively elucidates the activity, potential targets, and molecular mechanisms of HDW against liver cancer, providing a promising strategy for the scientific basis and treatment mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine in treating liver cancer.

Quercetin mitigates iron-induced cell death in chicken granulosa cell

BACKGROUND

Granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis, ferroptosis, and other programmed cell death processes are markers of follicular aging. Quercetin has been shown to reduce ferroptosis, however, its effects on ferroptosis in poultry remains unexplored. Our preliminary study identified ferroptosis in aging ovaries. Therefore, in the present study, 540-day-old Mountain Plum-blossom chickens were fed with quercetin supplementation at varying doses (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 g/kg), and examined its molecular effects on GC ferroptosis using an in vitro Erastin-induced model.

RESULTS

The results showed that quercetin supplementation significantly increased egg production, which confirmed its potential to alleviate ferroptosis in chicken ovarian tissue. The in vitro experiment revealed that quercetin and Fer-1 (positive control) mitigated Erastin-induced ferroptosis in GCs. Further, transcriptome analysis revealed that quercetin modulated key genes such as acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and transferrin receptor (TFRC), involved in ferroptosis regulation. The results further showed that quercetin also reduced Erastin-induced apoptosis and inflammation by modulating the expression of genes and proteins related to apoptosis and inflammatory factors (NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10).

CONCLUSION

Taken together, the results showed that quercetin improves egg production performance in chickens and mitigates ovarian ferroptosis in aging hens, and inhibits Erastin-induced ferroptosis, inflammation, and apoptosis in GCs. These findings revealed the protective role of quercetin in poultry ovarian tissue and its cellular mechanisms against detrimental factors in poultry production.

Exploring the Effect and Mechanism of DaYuan Yin Against Acute Lung Injury by Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experimental Validation

Background

DaYuan Yin (DYY), a traditional Chinese medicine for lung diseases, requires further study to understand how it improves acute lung injury (ALI). This study seeks to elucidate the material basis and molecular mechanisms underlying the treatment of ALI with DYY through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation.

Methods

DYY's active components and targets were identified using TCMSP and UHPLC-MS/MS, and a herb-component-target network was created with Cytoscape 3.7.2. ALI target genes were sourced from GeneCards, DisGeNET, and DrugBank. A PPI network was built, with core targets analyzed through GO and KEGG enrichment via Metscape. The therapeutic effects and mechanisms of DYY on LPS-induced ALI in rats were explored, and molecular docking evaluated the interactions between Nrf2, HO-1, TLR4, and the components.

Results

The study identified 95 active compounds, 234 therapeutic targets, and 2529 ALI-related genes, with 111 shared targets between DYY and ALI. KEGG analysis indicates that the PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and oxidative stress pathways are associated with DYY's anti-ALI effects. Network pharmacology and UHPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed active ingredients like quercetin, Magnolol, and Wogonin. Compared with the model group, DYY reduced the lung dry-wet ratio (W/D) of ALI rats from (5.31 ± 0.51) to (4.47 ± 0.73)(P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the contents of IL-6 and TNF-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and MDA, NO and ROS in lung tissue were also significantly decreased. Notably, DYY enhances UCP2 mRNA expression, boosts Nrf2 and HO-1 expression, and inhibits TLR4-mediated pro-inflammatory mediators. Molecular docking analysis showed that the main components of DYY had strong binding ability with HO-1.

Conclusion

DYY can alleviate inflammation, oxidative stress, and ALI-related changes by targeting the Nrf2/HO-1 mediated TLR4 pathway, providing insights for developing effective ALI treatments.

Bisphenol S decreased lifespan and healthspan via insulin/IGF-1-like signaling-against mitochondrial stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

Bisphenol S (BPS) is widely presented and affects aging with unclear mechanisms. Here, we applied C. elegans to evaluate the effects of BPS on lifespan and healthspan and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Both early-life and whole-life exposure to BPS at environmentally relevant doses (0.6, 6, 60 μg/L) significantly decreased lifespan, and healthspan (body bend, pharyngeal pumping, and lipofuscin accumulation). BPS exposure impaired mitochondrial structure and function, which promoted ROS production to induce oxidative stress. Furthermore, BPS increased expressions of the insulin/IGF-like signaling (IIS). Also, BPS inhibited expression of the IIS transcription factor daf-16 and its downstream anti-oxidative genes. Quercetin effectively improved BPS-induced oxidative stress byreversing BPS-regulated IIS/daf-16 pathway and anti-oxidative gene expressions. In daf-2 and daf-16 mutants, the effects of BPS and quercetin on lifespan, healthspan, oxidative stress, and anti-oxidative genes expressions were reversed, demonstrating the requirement of IIS/daf-16 for aging regulation. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stable interaction between DAF-2 and BPS mainly via three residues (VAL1260, GLU1329, and MET1395), which was attenuated by quercetin. Our results highlighted that adverse effects of BPS on impairing lifespan and healthspan by affecting IIS/daf-16 function against mitochondrial stress, which could be inhibited by quercetin treatment. Thus, we first revealed the underlying mechanisms of BPS-induced aging and the potential treatment.

The Role of Quercetin as a Plant-Derived Bioactive Agent in Preventive Medicine and Treatment in Skin Disorders

Quercetin, a bioactive plant flavonoid, is an antioxidant, and as such it exhibits numerous beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antibacterial and antiviral activity. It occurs naturally in fruit and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, cranberries, lettuce, and is present in plant waste such as onion peel or grape pomace which constitute good sources of quercetin for technological or pharmaceutical purposes. The presented study focuses on the role of quercetin in prevention and treatment of dermatological diseases analyzing its effect at a molecular level, its signal transduction and metabolism. Presented aspects of quercetin potential for skin treatment include protection against aging and UV radiation, stimulation of wound healing, reduction in melanogenesis, and prevention of skin oxidation. The article discusses quercetin sources (plant waste products included), methods of its medical administration, and perspectives for its further use in dermatology and diet therapy.

Quercetin as one of the most abundant represented biological valuable plant components with remarkable chemoprotective effects - A review

As a consequence of environmental quality changes as well as changes in our population's lifestyle, there is rapidly increasing variability and many so-called lifestyle disorders, allergies, and food intolerances (also known as non-allergic food hypersensitivity). Unhealthy eating practices, an inappropriate food composition with an excessive energy intake, a high intake of saturated fats, simple sugars, and salt, as well as an inadequate intake of fibre, vitamins, and substances with preventive effects (such as antioxidants), are some of the factors causing this detrimental phenomenon. Enhanced consumption of plant foods rich in valuable secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids and flavonoids with the benefit on human health, food research focused on these components, and production of foods with declared higher content of biologically active and prophylactic substances are some ways how to change and improve this situation. A unique class of hydroxylated phenolic compounds with an aromatic ring structure are called flavonoids. One unique subclass of flavonoids is quercetin. This phytochemical naturally takes place in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other plants. Quercetin and its several derivates are considered to be promising substances with significant antidiabetic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, which could also act preventively against cardiovascular disease, cancer, or Alzheimer's disease.

Recruitment or activation of mast cells in the liver aggravates the accumulation of fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury

Liver diseases caused by viral infections, alcoholism, drugs, or chemical poisons are a significant health problem: Liver diseases are a leading contributor to mortality, with approximately 2 million deaths per year worldwide. Liver fibrosis, as a common liver disease characterized by excessive collagen deposition, is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and there is no effective treatment. Numerous studies have shown that the accumulation of mast cells (MCs) in the liver is closely associated with liver injury caused by a variety of factors. This study investigated the relationship between MCs and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats and the effects of the MC stabilizers sodium cromoglycate (SGC) and ketotifen (KET) on CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. The results showed that MCs were recruited or activated during CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Coadministration of SCG or KET alleviated the liver fibrosis by decreasing SCF/c-kit expression, inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway, depressing the HIF-1a/VEGF pathway, activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and increasing the hepatic levels of GSH, GSH-Px, and GR, thereby reducing hepatic oxidative stress. Collectively, recruitment or activation of MCs is linked to liver fibrosis and the stabilization of MCs may provide a new approach to the prevention of liver fibrosis.

The role of Nrf2 signaling pathways in nerve damage repair

The protein, Nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), is a transitory protein that acts as a transcription factor and is involved in the regulation of many cytoprotective genes linked to xenobiotic metabolism and antioxidant responses. Based on the existing clinical and experimental data, it can be inferred that neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by an excessive presence of markers of oxidative stress (OS) and a reduced presence of antioxidant defense systems in both the brain and peripheral tissues. The presence of imbalances in the homeostasis between oxidants and antioxidants has been recognized as a substantial factor in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. The dysregulations include several cellular processes such as mitochondrial failure, protein misfolding, and neuroinflammation. These dysregulations all contribute to the disruption of proteostasis in neuronal cells, leading to their eventual mortality. A noteworthy component of Nrf2, as shown by recent research undertaken over the last decade, is to its role in the development of resistance to OS. Nrf2 plays a pivotal role in regulating systems that defend against OS. Extant research offers substantiation for the protective and defensive roles of Nrf2 in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the influence of Nrf2 on OS and its function in regulating antioxidant defense systems within the realm of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we evaluate the most recent academic inquiries and empirical evidence about the beneficial and potential role of certain Nrf2 activator compounds within the realm of therapeutic interventions.

Quercetin ameliorates ulcerative colitis by restoring the balance of M2/M1 and repairing the intestinal barrier via downregulating cGAS‒STING pathway

Macrophage polarization is closely associated with the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Quercetin, a flavonoid, has shown promise as a treatment for inflammatory diseases, but its specific mechanism of action remains unclear. This study investigates whether quercetin can regulate intestinal macrophage polarization and promote intestinal tissue repair via the cGAS-STING pathway for the treatment of UC. In vivo, mice with 3% DSS-induced UC were intraperitoneally injected with quercetin and RU.521 for 7 days, following which their general conditions and corresponding therapeutic effects were assessed. The impact of interferon-stimulated DNA (ISD) and quercetin on macrophage polarization and the cGAS-STING pathway was investigated using RAW264.7 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) in vitro. The results demonstrated that ISD induced M1 macrophage polarization and activated the cGAS-STING pathway in vitro, while quercetin reversed ISD's inflammatory effects. In vivo, quercetin suppressed the cGAS-STING pathway in the intestinal macrophages of DSS-induced UC mice, which reduced M1 macrophage polarization, increased M2 polarization, and facilitated intestinal barrier repair in UC. Taken together, these findings provide new insights into the mechanisms via which quercetin could be used to treat UC.

Advances in Flavonoid Research: Sources, Biological Activities, and Developmental Prospectives

At present, the occurrence of a large number of infectious and non-communicable diseases poses a serious threat to human health as well as to drug development for the treatment of these diseases. One of the most significant challenges is finding new drug candidates that are therapeutically effective and have few or no side effects. In this respect, the active compounds in medicinal plants, especially flavonoids, are potentially useful compounds with a wide range of pharmacological activities. They are naturally present in nature and valuable in the treatment of many infectious and non-communicable diseases. Flavonoids are divided into fourteen categories and are mainly derived from plant extraction, chemical synthesis and structural modification, and biosynthesis. The structural modification of flavonoids is an important way to discover new drugs, but biosynthesis is currently considered the most promising research direction with the potential to revolutionize the new production pipeline in the synthesis of flavonoids. However, relevant problems such as metabolic pathway analyses and cell synthesis protocols for flavonoids need to be addressed on an urgent basis. In the present review, new research techniques for assessing the biological activities of flavonoids and the mechanisms of their biological activities are elucidated and their modes of interaction with other drugs are described. Moreover, novel drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, bioparticles, colloidals, etc., are gradually becoming new means of addressing the issues of poor hydrophilicity, lipophilicity, poor chemical stability, and low bioavailability of flavonoids. The present review summarizes the latest research progress on flavonoids, existing problems with their therapeutic efficacy, and how these issues can be solved with the research on flavonoids.

Quercetin inhibits calcium oxalate crystallization and growth but promotes crystal aggregation and invasion

Recent evidence has shown an association between kidney stone pathogenesis and oxidative stress. Many anti-oxidants have been studied with an aim for stone prevention. Quercetin, a natural flavonol, is one among those eminent anti-oxidants with satisfactory anti-inflammatory property to cope with renal tissue injury in kidney stone disease. Nevertheless, its direct effect (if any) on calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals and the stone formation mechanism had not been previously explored. This study has addressed the ability of quercetin at various concentrations (2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 and 160 μM) to directly modulate CaOx crystallization, growth, aggregation, adhesion on kidney cells, and invasion through the matrix. The data have shown that quercetin significantly inhibits CaOx crystallization and crystal growth but promotes crystal aggregation in concentration-dependent manner. However, quercetin at all these concentrations do not affect CaOx adhesion on kidney cells. For the invasion, quercetin at all concentrations constantly promotes CaOx invasion through the matrix without concentration-dependent pattern. These discoveries have demonstrated for the first time that quercetin has direct but dual modulatory effects on CaOx crystals. While quercetin inhibits CaOx crystallization and growth, on the other hand, it promotes CaOx crystal aggregation and invasion through the matrix. These data highlight the role for quercetin in direct modulation of the CaOx crystals that may intervene the stone pathogenesis.