Neuroprotective potential of biochanin-A and review of the molecular mechanisms involved

Agarwood leaf ethanol extract provides neuroprotective properties and promotes cholinergic differentiation of HT22 hippocampal neurons

Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by the loss or damage of neurons, represent a growing global health concern. Plants are a rich source of naturally occurring compounds with immense therapeutic potential. Among them, Aquilaria crassna (commonly known as agarwood) is a precious fragrant plant extensively used in cosmetics, perfumes, and traditional Asian medicine. However, its neuroprotective role, particularly in neuroregeneration, has been minimally explored. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of agarwood leaves in promoting neuroregeneration, with a focus on cholinergic function and neural differentiation. To identify bioactive compounds, a comprehensive LC-MS analysis was conducted on agarwood ethanolic extract (AWE). The phytochemicals detected were further evaluated using in silico methods to predict their interaction with receptor proteins linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Virtual screening revealed that several compounds in AWE exhibited strong binding affinities to receptors such as sigma-1, TrkB, Nogo-66, and p75NTR, providing insights into the potential mechanisms underlying its neuroprotective effects. The in-silico findings were validated through in vitro experiments using HT-22 mouse hippocampal cells as a model. AWE treatment led to a dose-dependent increase in the expression of marker proteins associated with neural differentiation and regeneration, including neuronal nuclei (NeuN), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), synaptophysin (Syn), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the sigma-1 receptor. Additionally, AWE enhanced the expression of specific markers for cholinergic neurons, demonstrating its influence on neuronal development and synaptic function. These findings provide compelling evidence of AWE's neuroprotective properties, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases.

Deciphering the Neuroprotective Action of Bee Venom Peptide Melittin: Insights into Mechanistic Interplay

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis, are characterized by progressive loss of neuronal structure and function. These conditions often lead to cognitive decline, motor dysfunction, and ultimately severe impairment of daily activities. A key feature of neurodegenerative diseases is chronic inflammation, which contributes to neuronal damage and exacerbates disease progression. Traditional treatments mainly focus on symptomatic relief rather than addressing the underlying causes, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Melittin, a bioactive peptide derived from bee venom, has garnered attention for its multifaceted neuroprotective properties, particularly in the context of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders. This review delves into the molecular mechanisms through which melittin exerts neuroprotective effects, with a focus on its ability to modulate neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and neurogenesis. Research indicates that melittin can downregulate pro-apoptotic pathways by inhibiting calpain-mediated activation of apoptosis-inducing factor and Bax, thereby reducing neuronal cell death. Additionally, melittin exerts its neuroprotective effects through the inhibition of neuroinflammatory processes, specifically by downregulating key inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB and MAPK. This modulation leads to decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins, which are implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Beyond its anti-inflammatory actions, melittin promotes neurogenesis, potentially through the modulation of the BDNF/Trk-B/CREB signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in neuronal survival and plasticity. These properties suggest that melittin not only provides symptomatic relief but could also address the root causes of neuronal degeneration, presenting a promising avenue for the development of new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Further research is required to validate its efficacy and safety in clinical settings.

Protective Effect of Biochanin A on Gamma Radiation-Induced Oxidative Stress, Antioxidant Status, Apoptotic, and DNA Repairing Molecules in Swiss Albino Mice

Radiation therapy is indispensable in medical practice but often causes adverse effects on healthy tissues, necessitating the search for natural radioprotectors. This study investigates the protective effect of Biochanin A (BCA) against gamma radiation-induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in Swiss albino mice. Gamma radiation, a potent ionizing source, generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage cellular biomolecules, including DNA. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing ROS and preventing oxidative damage. Swiss albino mice were divided into control, BCA control (10 mg/kg body weight), radiation alone (7 Gy), and radiation+ BCA pretreatment groups. BCA, a natural isoflavone with known antioxidant and cytoprotective properties, was administered intraperitoneally before radiation exposure. After irradiation, lipid peroxidation levels, antioxidant enzyme activities/level (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione), expression levels of DNA repair genes (P53, P21, GADD45α), apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, -9 and Cytochrome-C), and inflammatory marker (NF-κB) were analyzed in small intestine tissue. Our findings indicate that gamma radiation significantly elevated lipid peroxidation levels and altered antioxidant enzyme activities, indicating oxidative stress. However, BCA pretreatment mitigated these effects by bolstering antioxidant defences, reducing radiation-induced oxidative damage. Additionally, BCA altered apoptotic markers, NF-κB expression, promoting cell survival mechanisms. At the molecular level, BCA pretreatment upregulated key DNA repair genes (P53, P21, GADD45α), crucial for repairing radiation-induced DNA damage and maintaining genomic stability. These results underscore BCA potential as a radioprotector, suggesting its efficacy in mitigating radiation-induced oxidative stress and preserving cellular integrity. In conclusion, BCA demonstrates promising radioprotective properties by attenuating oxidative stress, enhancing antioxidant defences, modulating apoptotic pathways, and promoting DNA repair mechanisms following gamma radiation exposure. Further research is necessary to elucidate its precise mechanisms of action and explore its potential therapeutic applications in radiation oncology and environmental radioprotection.

Melittin protects against neural cell damage in rats following ischemic stroke

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we explored the neuroprotective effect of melittin (MEL) after brain ischemia using a rat model.

METHODS

The rats underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 60 min and were randomly divided into the control group, saline group, and MEL group. Rats in each group were injected intraperitoneally with MEL one day before MCAO until sacrificed. Morris water maze and rotation test were used to assess locomotor function and cognitive ability. The 9.4 Tesla MRI was used to scan and assess the infarct volume of the rat brains. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the sites of action of MEL on microglia. Western blot and ELISA were used to measure the effect of MEL on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The effect of MEL on neuronal cell apoptosis was observed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Compared with the saline group, MEL treatment significantly increased the density of neurons in the cerebral cortical and reduced the cerebral infarct size after MCAO (33.9 ± 8.8% vs. 15.8 ± 3.9%, P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the time for MEL-treated rats to complete the water maze task on the 11th day after MCAO was significantly shorter than that of rats in the saline group (P < 0.05). MEL treatment also prolonged the rotarod retention time on day 14 after MCAO. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that MEL inhibited the activation of microglia and suppressed the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the brain after ischemia. MEL treatment resulted in a significant decrease in TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB p65 levels in extracts from the ischemic cerebral cortex. Finally, MEL reduced neuronal apoptosis induced by ischemic stroke (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

MEL treatment promotes neurological function recovery after cerebral ischemia in rats. These effects are potentially mediated through anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

Investigating the Anticancer Potential of Biochanin A in KB Oral Cancer Cells Through the NFκB Pathway

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignancy primarily affecting squamous cells. Its development is linked to multiple risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Biochanin A (BCA), a phytoestrogen extracted from red clover, has been extensively researched for its therapeutic properties. It spans antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, cardioprotection, and anticancer potential in different bodily systems. However, its impact on oral cancer remains unexplored. Therefore, this investigation aims to assess the potential anticancer effects of BCA, specifically on KB oral cancer cells. This study utilized KB cells to evaluate the impact of BCA on various cellular parameters, including cell viability, apoptosis, intracellular ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell migration. BCA treatment induced several notable effects on KB cells, including reduced cell viability, altered morphology suggestive of apoptosis, heightened oxidative stress, and alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, BCA treatment demonstrated an inhibitory effect on cell migration. The study further investigated the impact of BCA on antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation, revealing decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and increased lipid peroxidation across different BCA concentrations (IC50 and IC90). Immunocytochemistry and qRT-PCR analyses unveiled that BCA treatment at varying doses (IC50 and IC90) downregulated the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunits p50 and p65, pivotal players in cancer progression. In summary, this study sheds light on the promising potential of BCA as an anticancer therapeutic agent for treating oral cancer. Its demonstrated ability to induce apoptosis, perturb cellular functions, and modulate gene expression within cancer cells underscores its significance. Nonetheless, further research, particularly following animal studies, is imperative to comprehensively grasp the breadth of BCA's effects and its viability for clinical applications.

Harnessing Therapeutic Potentials of Biochanin A in Neurological Disorders: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Overview

Biochanin A, an isoflavone flavonoid with estrogenic activity, is naturally found in red clover and other legumes. It possesses a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects. In recent years, a growing body of pre-clinical research has focused on exploring the therapeutic potential of biochanin A in various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, ischemic brain injury, gliomas, and neurotoxicity. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to the neuroprotective role of biochanin A based on previous pre-clinical studies. Furthermore, it provides a detailed overview of the protective effects of biochanin A in diverse neurological disorders. The review also addresses the limitations associated with biochanin A administration and discusses different approaches employed to overcome these challenges. Finally, it highlights the future opportunities for translating biochanin A from pre-clinical research to clinical studies while also considering its commercial viability as a dietary supplement or a potential treatment for various diseases.

The Role of Natural and Synthetic Flavonoids in the Prevention of Marine Biofouling

Marine biofouling is a major concern for the maritime industry, environment, and human health. Biocides which are currently used in marine coatings to prevent this phenomenon are toxic to the marine environment, and therefore a search for antifoulants with environmentally safe properties is needed. A large number of scientific papers have been published showing natural and synthetic compounds with potential to prevent the attachment of macro- and microfouling marine organisms on submerged surfaces. Flavonoids are a class of compounds which are highly present in nature, including in marine organisms, and have been found in a wide range of biological activities. Some natural and synthetic flavonoids have been evaluated over the last few years for their potential to prevent the settlement and/or the growth of marine organisms on submerged structures, thereby preventing marine biofouling. This review compiles, for the first-time, natural flavonoids as well as their synthetic analogues with attributed antifouling activity against macrofouling and microfouling marine organisms.

Marine-derived Compounds: A Powerful Platform for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating form of dementia that primarily affects cholinergic neurons in the brain, significantly reducing an individual's capacity for learning and creative skills and ultimately resulting in an inability to carry out even basic daily tasks. As the elderly population is exponentially increasing, the disease has become a significant concern for society. Therefore, neuroprotective substances have garnered considerable interest in addressing this universal issue. Studies have shown that oxidative damage to neurons contributes to the pathophysiological processes underlying AD progression. In AD, tau phosphorylation and glutamate excitotoxicity may play essential roles, but no permanent cure for AD is available. The existing therapies only manage the early symptoms of AD and often come with numerous side effects and toxicities. To address these challenges, researchers have turned to nature and explored various sources such as plants, animals, and marine organisms. Many historic holy books from different cultures emphasize that adding marine compounds to the regular diet enhances brain function and mitigates its decline. Consequently, researchers have devoted significant time to identifying potentially active neuroprotective substances from marine sources. Marine-derived compounds are gaining recognition due to their abundant supply of diverse chemical compounds with biological and pharmacological potential and unique mechanisms of action. Several studies have reported that plants exhibit multitarget potential in treating AD. In light of this, the current study focuses on marine-derived components with excellent potential for treating this neurodegenerative disease.

NF-κB Pathway and Its Inhibitors: A Promising Frontier in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease

The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway has emerged as a pivotal player in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer's disease (AD). The involvement of the NF-κB pathway in immune system responses, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal survival highlights its significance in AD progression. We discuss the advantages of NF-κB pathway inhibition, including the potential to mitigate neuroinflammation, modulate amyloid beta (Aβ) production, and promote neuronal survival. However, we also acknowledge the limitations and challenges associated with this approach. Balancing the fine line between dampening inflammation and preserving physiological immune responses is critical to avoid unintended consequences. This review combines current knowledge on the NF-κB pathway's intricate involvement in AD pathogenesis, emphasizing its potential as a therapeutic target. By evaluating both advantages and limitations, we provide a holistic view of the feasibility and challenges of NF-κB pathway modulation in AD treatment. As the quest for effective AD therapies continues, an in-depth understanding of the NF-κB pathway's multifaceted roles will guide the development of targeted interventions with the potential to improve AD management.

Beneficial Effects of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge Extract in Controlling Inflammatory Response and Preventing Asthma Features

Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge root is used as herbal medicine for its immunomodulating activities in Chinese medicine. Recently, beneficial properties of A. membranaceus on allergic diseases have been proposed. Here we investigated the role of a commercial extract of A. membranaceus, standardized to 16% polysaccharides, in regulating the immune-inflammatory response in vitro and in vivo and its therapeutic application in asthma. A. membranaceus extract inhibited prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene C4 production in stimulated J774 and peritoneal macrophages, respectively. The extract also reduced interlukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nitrite production, affecting inducible nitric oxide synthase expression. In vivo experiments confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of A. membranaceus, as evident by a reduction in zymosan-induced peritoneal cellular infiltration and pro-inflammatory mediator production. The efficacy of A. membranaceus extract in modulating the immune response was confirmed in a model of allergic airway inflammation. Extracts improve lung function by inhibiting airway hyperresponsiveness, airway remodeling, and fibrosis. Its anti-asthmatic effects were further sustained by inhibition of the sensitization process, as indicated by a reduction of ovalbumin-induced IgE levels and the mounting of a Th2 immune response. In conclusion, our data demonstrate the anti-inflammatory properties of the commercial extract of A. membranaceus and its beneficial effects on asthma feature development.