Disulfiram and Its Copper Chelate Attenuate Cisplatin-Induced Acute Nephrotoxicity in Rats Via Reduction of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Protective effect of tert-butylhydroquinone against cisplatin-induced hepatorenal injury via modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

CONTEXT

Cisplastin (CDDP) is a chemotherapeutic drug frequently used to manage a variety of cancers. However, its use is associated with hepatorenal toxicity resulting from elevated reactive oxygen species production.

OBJECTIVE

Herein, the hepatorenal protective effect of tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) in cisplatin (CDDP)-treated rats was examined.

METHODS

Wistar male rats randomly divided into four groups: normal control, tBHQ, CDDP and tBHQ + CDDP received 50 mg/kg b.w./day of tBHQ orally for 14 days while 7 mg/kg b.w of CDDP was administered intraperitoneally on Day 8.

RESULTS

CDDP increased serum biomarkers of hepatic (AST, ALP, ALT, GGT) and renal (creatinine, urea, uric acid, kidney injury molecule 1) function. The levels of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 protein and the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities were decreased in liver and kidney. Also, CDDP increased hepatic and renal levels of NF-κB, TNFα, Bax and caspase-3 proteins and decreased hepatorenal levels of Bcl-2 protein in the liver and kidney. Pre-treatment with tBHQ prevented these negative effects.

SIGNIFICANCE

Pre-intervention with tBHQ attenuates hepatorenal toxicity of CDDP by dampening oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis.

Protective effect of coenzyme Q10 in cyclophosphamide-induced kidney damage in rats

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the effect of coenzyme q10 on cyclophosphamide-induced kidney damage in rats.

METHODS

A total of 30 female Wistar-Albino rats were utilized to form three groups. In group 1 (control group) (n=10), no drugs were given. In group 2 (cyclophosphamide group) (n=10), 30 mg/kg intraperitoneal cyclophosphamide was administered for 7 days. In group 3 (cyclophosphamide+coenzyme q10 group) (n=10), 30 mg/kg cyclophosphamide and 10 mg/kg coenzyme q10 were given for 7 days via intraperitoneal route. Right kidneys were removed in all groups. Blood malondialdehyde levels and activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase were measured. Histopathological damage was evaluated by examining the slides prepared from kidney tissue using a light microscope.

RESULTS

Tissue damage was significantly higher in the cyclophosphamide group than in the cyclophosphamide+coenzyme q10 group (p<0.05). The malondialdehyde levels were significantly higher and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase were lower in the cyclophosphamide group than in the cyclophosphamide+coenzyme q10 group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Coenzyme q10 may be a good option to prevent cyclophosphamide-induced kidney damage.

pH-responsive CuS/DSF/EL/PVP nanoplatform alleviates inflammatory bowel disease in mice via regulating gut immunity and microbiota

The clinical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is challenging. We developed copper sulfate (CuS)/disulfiram (DSF)/methacrylic acid-ethyl acrylate copolymer (EL)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanoplatform (CuS/DSF/EL/PVP) and evaluated its efficiency for treating IBD. After oral administration, the pH-sensitive EL protected the CuS/DSF/EL/PVP against degradation by acidic gastric juices. Once the colon was reached, EL was dissolved, releasing DSF and Cu2+. Further, the main in vivo metabolite of DSF can bind to Cu2+ and form copper (II) N, N-diethyldithiocarbamate (CuET), which significantly alleviated acute colitis in mice. Notably, CuS/DSF/EL/PVP outperformed CuS/EL/PVP and DSF/EL/PVP nanoplatforms in reducing colonic pathology and improving the secretion of inflammation-related cytokines (such as IL-4 and IL-10) in the colonic mucosa. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the nanoplatform reduced colonic inflammation and promoted intestinal mucosal repair by upregulating C-type lectin receptor (CLR)-related genes and signaling pathways. Furthermore, CuS/DSF/EL/PVP showed potential for improving colitis Th1/Th17 cells through innate immunity stimulation, down-regulation of inflammatory cytokines, and upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the intervention with CuS/DSF/EL/PVP led to increased intestinal flora diversity, decreased Escherichia-Shigella abundance, and elevated levels of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium, indicating their potential to modulate the dysregulated intestinal flora and suppress inflammation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Our study introduces the CuS/DSF/EL/PVP nanoplatform as a therapeutic strategy for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This approach demonstrates significant efficacy in targeting the colon and alleviating acute colitis in mice. It uniquely modulates gut immunity and microbiota, exhibiting a notable impact on inflammation-related cytokines and promoting intestinal mucosal repair. The nanoplatform's ability to regulate gut flora diversity, combined with its cost-effective and scalable production, positions it as a potentially transformative treatment for IBD, offering new avenues for personalized medical interventions.

Copper homeostasis in chronic kidney disease and its crosstalk with ferroptosis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a global public health problem with high morbidity and mortality. Renal fibrosis can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, there is still no effective treatment to prevent or delay the progression of CKD into ESRD. Therefore, exploring the pathogenesis of CKD is essential for preventing and treating CKD. There are a variety of trace elements in the human body that interact with each other within a complex regulatory network. Iron and copper are both vital trace elements in the body. They are critical for maintaining bodily functions, and the dysregulation of their metabolism can cause many diseases, including kidney disease. Ferroptosis is a new form of cell death characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Studies have shown that ferroptosis is closely related to kidney disease. However, the role of abnormal copper metabolism in kidney disease and its relationship with ferroptosis remains unclear. Here, our current knowledge regarding copper metabolism, its regulatory mechanism, and the role of abnormal copper metabolism in kidney diseases is summarized. In addition, we discuss the relationship between abnormal copper metabolism and ferroptosis to explore the possible pathogenesis and provide a potential therapeutic target for CKD.

Modulation of mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 signaling pathway by polyphenolic compound Hydroxytyrosol as a new avenue to alleviate cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury, a mechanistic study in rats

Acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by Cis is considered one of the most severe adverse effects, which restricts its use and efficacy. This study seeks to examine the potential reno-protective impact of phenolic compound Hydroxytyrosol (HT) against Cis-induced AKI and the possible involvement of the mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 pathway elucidating the probable implicated molecular mechanisms. Forty rats were placed into 5 groups. Group I received saline only. Group II received Cis only. Group III, IV, and V received 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg b.w, of HT, respectively, with Cis delivery. NOX4, Ox-LDL, and gene expression of mi-RNA 25, TNF-α, and HO-1 in renal tissue were detected. HT showed reno-protective effect and significantly upregulated mi-RNA 25 and HO-1 as well as decreased the expression of NOX4, Ox-LDL, and TNF-α. In conclusion, HT may be promising in the fight against Cis-induced AKI through modulation of mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 pathway.

Conditioned nausea induced by cisplatin and emetine identified by a taste reactivity test in rats

No prior studies have shown that gaping reactions are produced with the avoidance of conditioned taste caused by cisplatin and emetine. Therefore, we tried to demonstrate it using a taste reactivity test in rats and found the gaping reactions induced when saccharin is readministered after gustatory conditioning that paired saccharin with cisplatin or emetine. Since conditioned gaping reactions indicate the aversion to saccharin taste and conditioned nausea, the present study suggest that the taste aversion is induced by cisplatin and emetine. It was also found that with intraperitoneal injections of emetine alone, gaping almost never occurs.

Moringa oleifera impedes protein glycation and exerts reno-protective effects in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Moringa oleifera is a valued plant with wide distribution in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is traditionally used for the treatment of fever, infections, rheumatism, cancer, improving cardiac, renal and hepatic functions, and regulating blood glucose level. The plant has been scientifically reported for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, renoprotective, and anti-diabetic properties. Diabetic patients are prone to develop end-stage renal diseases due to incidence of diabetes-induced renal dysfunctions. Given that, increased production and accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) play a conspicuous role in the development of diabetes-linked renal dysfunctions, nature-based interventions with AGEs inhibitory activity can prevent renal dysfunctions leading to renoprotection.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed to demonstrate the preventive effects of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Moringa oleifera (EEMO) on protein glycation and its further assessment for the renoprotective effect in diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antiglycation activity of EEMO was assessed in vitro using bovine serum albumin. For reno-protective activity assessment, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were orally treated with EEMO (100 mg/kg) or standard antiglycation agent aminoguanidine (100 mg/kg) for consecutive 8 weeks. The effects on glucose homeostasis, renal functions, and renal morphology were assessed by clinical biochemistry, molecular and histological examination.

RESULTS

Presence of EEMO efficiently prevented glucose-, fructose- or methylglyoxal-mediated glycation of protein. Under in vivo set-up, compared to diabetic control rats, EEMO treatment effectively improved the glucose tolerance and body weight, and reduced the serum levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol. Additionally, EEMO administration significantly ameliorated renal dysfunctions in diabetic rats characterized by improved levels of creatinine, urea nitrogen, and uric acid in serum, and total protein level in urine, accompanied by improved kidney morphology. The diabetes-associated pro-inflammatory response characterized by upregulated expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNos), activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and the raised levels of inflammatory factors, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in renal tissue was significantly attenuated in EEMO-treated rats. Moreover, EEMO treatment diminished renal reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in diabetic animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that EEMO prevented AGEs formation and ameliorated renal dysfunctions in diabetic rats by blocking inflammatory/oxidative pathways. Our observations justify M. oleifera as a potential source of therapeutic interventions for diabetic nephropathy management.

A study to demonstrate the potential of Anabolic Androgen Steroid to activate oxidative tissue damage, nephrotoxicity and decline endogenous antioxidant system in renal tissue of Adult Wistar Rats

Anabolic Androgenic steroids (AAS) are abused and reports have been made on their deleterious effects on various organs. It is imperative to report the mechanism of inducing oxidative tissue damage even in the presence of an intracellular antioxidant system by the interaction between lipid peroxidation and the antioxidant system in the kidney. Twenty (20) adult male Wistar rats used were grouped into: A- Control, BOlive oil vehicle, C- 120 mg/kg of AAS orally for three weeks, and D- 7 days withdrawal group following 120 mg/kg/ 21days of AAS intake. Serum was assayed for lipid peroxidation marker Malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme -superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Sectioned of kidneys were stained to see the renal tissue, mucin granules, and basement membrane. AAS-induced oxidative tissue damage, in the presence of an endogenous antioxidant, is characterized by increased lipid peroxidation and decreased SOD level which resulted in the loss of renal tissue cells membrane integrity which is a characteristic of the pathophysiology of nephron toxicity induced by a toxic compound. However, this was progressively reversed by a period of discontinuation of AAS drug exposure.

Identification of key cuproptosis-related genes and their targets in patients with IgAN

BACKGROUND

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the most common forms of chronic glomerulonephritis, but the aetiology and pathogenesis remain unclear. Cuproptosis is a newly identified form of cell death that plays an important role in many diseases. Researchers have not clearly determined whether the expression of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) is involved in the pathogenesis of IgAN.

METHODS

The GSE93798, GSE50469 and GSE37460 datasets containing microarray data from patients with IgAN (63) and healthy controls (31) were downloaded from the GEO database. Immune cells and immune-related functions were analysed in patients with IgAN and controls, and genes were identified that may be related to cuproptosis. A logistic regression model was established according to the results, and then GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed. Finally, possible drugs were selected using the DSigDB database.

RESULTS

The subjects in the different groups showed significantly different fractions of immune cells and immune-related functions, and 11 genes related to cuproptosis may be involved in these processes. Based on these 11 genes, the ROC curve was plotted, and the AUC value was calculated (0.898, 95% CI: 0.839-0.958). The result revealed good predictability. Then, genes with P &lt; 0.05 (lipoyltransferase 1, LIPT1) were selected to plot an ROC curve, and the AUC value was calculated (0.729, 95% CI: 0.636-0.821). Enrichment analyses showed that the TCA cycle and multiple metabolic pathways may also be involved in the occurrence of IgAN. Finally, 293 potential drugs that may be used to treat IgAN were identified based on these genes.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we identified some novel CRGs that may be involved in IgAN, among which LIPT1 was significantly differentially expressed. It may predict the risk of IgAN and provides a possible target for the treatment of IgAN. Further experimental studies are needed to explore how these CRGs mediate the occurrence and development of IgAN.

The anti-alcoholism drug disulfiram effectively ameliorates ulcerative colitis through suppressing oxidative stresses-associated pyroptotic cell death and cellular inflammation in colonic cells

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress, cell pyroptosis and inflammation are considered as important pathogenic factors for ulcerative colitis (UC) development, and the traditional anti-alcoholism drug disulfiram (DSF) has recently been reported to exert its regulating effects on all the above cellular functions, which makes DSF as ideal therapeutic agent for UC treatment, but this issue has not been fully studied.

METHODS

Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced animal models in C57BL/6J mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cellular models in colonic cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2) for UC were respectively established. Cytokine secretion was determined by ELISA. Cell viability and proliferation were evaluated by MTT assay and EdU assay. Real-Time qPCR, Western Blot, immunofluorescent staining assay and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were employed to evaluate gene expressions. The correlations of the genes in the clinical tissues were analyzed by using the Pearson Correlation analysis.

RESULTS

DSF restrained oxidative stress, pyroptotic cell death and cellular inflammation in UC models in vitro and in vivo, and elimination of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) rescued cell viability in LPS-treated colonic cells (HT-29 and Caco-2). Further experiments suggested that a glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β)/Nrf2/NLRP3 signaling cascade played critical role in this process. Mechanistically, DSF downregulated GSK-3β and NLRP3, whereas upregulated Nrf2 in LPS-treated colonic cells. Also, the regulating effects of DSF on Nrf2 and NLRP3 were abrogated by upregulating GSK-3β. Moreover, upregulation of GSK-3β abolished the protective effects of DSF on LPS-treated colonic cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, data of this study indicated that DSF restrained oxidative damages-related pyroptotic cell death and inflammation via regulating the GSK-3β/Nrf2/NLRP3 pathway, leading to the suppression of LPS-induced UC development.

Single-cell analysis highlights differences in druggable pathways underlying adaptive or fibrotic kidney regeneration

The kidney has tremendous capacity to repair after acute injury, however, pathways guiding adaptive and fibrotic repair are poorly understood. We developed a model of adaptive and fibrotic kidney regeneration by titrating ischemic injury dose. We performed detailed biochemical and histological analysis and profiled transcriptomic changes at bulk and single-cell level (> 110,000 cells) over time. Our analysis highlights kidney proximal tubule cells as key susceptible cells to injury. Adaptive proximal tubule repair correlated with fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation. We identify a specific maladaptive/profibrotic proximal tubule cluster after long ischemia, which expresses proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines and myeloid cell chemotactic factors. Druggability analysis highlights pyroptosis/ferroptosis as vulnerable pathways in these profibrotic cells. Pharmacological targeting of pyroptosis/ferroptosis in vivo pushed cells towards adaptive repair and ameliorates fibrosis. In summary, our single-cell analysis defines key differences in adaptive and fibrotic repair and identifies druggable pathways for pharmacological intervention to prevent kidney fibrosis.

Potential Protective Effects of Antioxidants against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating antineoplastic agent, and it is one of the most successful drugs with wide arrays of clinical activity. It has been in use for several types of cancer treatments and as an immunosuppressive agent for the management of autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases. Nowadays, its clinical use is limited due to various toxicities, including nephrotoxicity. Even though the mechanisms are not well understood, cyclophosphamide-induced nephrotoxicity is reported to be mediated through oxidative stress. This review focuses on the potential role of natural and plant-derived antioxidants in preventing cyclophosphamide-induced nephrotoxicity.

Repurposing disulfiram as a chemo-therapeutic sensitizer: molecular targets and mechanisms

Currently, chemo-therapy is still the main strategy for cancer treatment. However, chemo-therapy resistance remains its main challenge. Disulfiram [DSF] is a drug approved by FDA for the treatment of alcohol addiction, but it is later discovered that it has the anticancer activity. Importantly, there have been many literatures reporting that DSF can be used as a chemo-therapeutic sensitizer to enhance the anticancer activity of chemo-drugs in a variety of cancers. Furthermore, the combinations of DSF and chemo-drugs have been tested in clinic trials. In the review, we summarized the possible molecular targets and mechanisms of DSF to reverse chemo-resistance. We also further discussed the opportunities and challenges of DSF as a chemo-therapeutic sensitizer. In conclusion, DSF could be a potential repurposed drug to sensitize cancer cells to chemo-therapy in clinic.

Application of Disulfiram and its Metabolites in Treatment of Inflammatory Disorders

Disulfiram has been used clinically for decades as an anti-alcoholic drug. Recently, several studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of disulfiram and its metabolism, which can alleviate the progression of inflammation in vivo and in vitro. In the current study, we summarize the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of disulfiram and its metabolism, including inhibition of pyroptosis by either covalently modifying gasdermin D or inactivating nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome, dual effects of intracellular reactive oxygen species production, and inhibition of angiogenesis. Furthermore, we review the potential application of disulfiram and its metabolism in treatment of inflammatory disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease, inflammatory injury of kidney and liver, type 2 diabetes mellitus, sepsis, uveitis, and osteoarthritis.

L-carnitine ameliorates bile duct ligation induced liver fibrosis via reducing the nitrosative stress in experimental animals: preclinical evidences

Bile duct ligation (BDL) has been extensively used in studying the mechanisms of fibrogenesis and anti-fibrotic drugs. Considering the liver regenerative capacity and the diverse results from BDL, the present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of L-carnitine on bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis in experimental rats. Rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 6). The bile duct was ligated and serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total bilirubin and albumin, hepatic hydroxyproline (HP), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and cytokines were measured. iNOS expression was measured by using Western blot and finally, liver tissue was processed for histopathological analysis (H&E staining)". The level of iNOS was increased in the control group, whereas a decrease in the level of iNOS was found in the L-carnitine treated group. In the present study, we found that bile duct ligation in rats showed an increase in body and liver weight, while treatment with carnitine showed normal body and liver weight. Serum AST, ALT, total bilirubin, HP, GSH, MDA, and cytokines were increased in bile duct ligated rats. In addition, L-carnitine treated rats showed a reduction in oxidative stress as well as inhibiting the release of cytokines in a dose-dependent manner and showed protection against bile duct ligation. The study concludes that L-carnitine has a protective effect against the liver fibrosis induced by bile duct ligation.

Regression Modeling of the Antioxidant-to-Nephroprotective Relation Shows the Pivotal Role of Oxidative Stress in Cisplatin Nephrotoxicity

The clinical utility of the chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin is significantly limited by its nephrotoxicity, which is characterized by electrolytic disorders, glomerular filtration rate decline, and azotemia. These alterations are consequences of a primary tubulopathy causing injury to proximal and distal epithelial cells, and thus tubular dysfunction. Oxidative stress plays a role in cisplatin nephrotoxicity and cytotoxicity, but its relative contribution to overall toxicity remains unknown. We studied the relation between the degree of oxidative reduction (provided by antioxidant treatment) and the extent of nephrotoxicity amelioration (i.e., nephroprotection) by means of a regression analysis of studies in animal models. Our results indicate that a linear relation exists between these two parameters, and that this relation very nearly crosses the value of maximal nephroprotection at maximal antioxidant effect, suggesting that oxidative stress seems to be a pivotal and mandatory mechanism of cisplatin nephrotoxicity, and, hence, an interesting, rationale-based target for clinical use. Our model also serves to identify antioxidants with enhanced effectiveness by comparing their actual nephroprotective power with that predicted by their antioxidant effect. Among those, this study identified nanoceria, erythropoietin, and maltol as highly effective candidates affording more nephroprotection than expected from their antioxidant effect for prospective clinical development.

A neutral polysaccharide from Ophiocordyceps lanpingensis restrains cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

Ophiocordyceps lanpingensis is an edible mushroom distributed over the south-eastern part of the Tibet Plateau, which is also recognized as an effective ethnomedicine to alleviate diseases. This study explored the effects of a kind of Ophiocordyceps lanpingensis neutral polysaccharide (ONP) on RAW264.7 macrophages and cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The results showed that ONP relieved the inflammatory response of RAW264.7 macrophages by increasing the expression level of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. Furthermore, ONP treatment significantly prolonged the survival of the mice treated by cisplatin through decelerating pathological progress and alleviating damaged functions of the kidneys. Compared with the cisplatin group, ONP reduced the oxidative stress of the renal cells and the expression levels of pro-inflammatory factors. Apoptosis of renal cells was also weakened in the ONP treatment group. These findings indicated that ONP alleviated cisplatin nephrotoxicity mainly by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the kidneys, underscoring the potential of ONP supplementation to alleviate the side effects of cisplatin chemotherapy.

Cyclophosphamide-Induced Inflammation of Taste Buds and Cytoprotection by Amifostine

Taste buds in the oral cavity have a complex immune system regulating normal functions and inflammatory reactions. Cyclophosphamide (CYP), a chemotherapy drug, has wide-ranging disruptive effects on the taste system including loss of taste function, taste sensory cells, and capacity for taste cell renewal. In bladder epithelium, CYP also induces inflammation. To determine if CYP induces inflammation in taste buds, we used immunohistochemistry to examine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (a proinflammatory cytokine) expression over a 72-hour period. Expression of TNF-α increased in a subset of PLCβ2 labeled (Type II) cells, but not SNAP-25 labeled (Type III) cells, between 8 and 24 h postinjection and declined slowly thereafter. This inflammatory response may play an important role in the disruptive effects of CYP on the taste system. Further, pretreatment with amifostine, a sulfhydryl drug known to protect normal tissues during chemo- or radiation therapy, reduced the amount of CYP-induced TNF-α expression in taste buds, suggesting this drug is capable of protecting normal cells of the taste system from adverse effects of CYP. Amifostine, used as a pretreatment to CYP and possibly other chemotherapy drugs, may offer clinical support for preventing negative side effects of chemotherapy on the taste system.

The Positive and Negative Outcome of Morphine and Disulfiram Subacute Co-Administration in Rats in the Absence of Ethanol Challenge

Recently, a well-known anti-alcohol agent, disulfiram (DSF), has gain much interest, as it was found to be effective in the treatment of cocaine abusers, thus also giving hope for patients addicted to opioids and other illicit drugs. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the possible outcome that might occur within the subacute co-administration of both morphine (MRF) and DSF in rats, but in the absence of ethanol challenge. As observed, intraperitoneal DSF dose-dependently enhanced MRF-mediated analgesia with the maximal efficacy at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Furthermore, MRF-induced tolerance and aggressive behavior were significantly reduced by DSF (100 mg/kg, i.p.) in comparison to MRF solely. Nonetheless, significant blood biochemical markers of hepatotoxicity were found (i.e., alteration in the levels of glutathione, blood urea nitrogen, etc.), following a combination of both drugs. Likewise, histological analysis of liver tissue revealed severe changes in the group of DSF + MRF, which includes swelling, cell death, damage to certain vessels, and hemorrhages into the liver parenchyma. Our findings indicate that DSF should be used with extreme caution, especially within the course of subacute concomitant use with MRF, as several possible side effects may take place.

A meta-analysis of preclinical studies using antioxidants for the prevention of cisplatin nephrotoxicity: implications for clinical application

Cisplatin is an effective chemotherapeutic drug whose clinical use and efficacy are limited by its nephrotoxicity, which affects mainly the renal tubules and vasculature. It accumulates in proximal and distal epithelial tubule cells and causes oxidative stress-mediated cell death and malfunction. Consequently, many antioxidants have been tested for their capacity to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity. In this study, we made a systematic review of the literature and meta-analyzed 152 articles, which tested the nephroprotective effect of isolated compounds or mixtures of natural origin on cisplatin nephrotoxicity in preclinical models. This meta-analysis identified the most effective candidates and examined the efficacy obtained by antioxidants administered by the oral and intraperitoneal routes. By comparing with a recent, similar meta-analysis performed on clinical studies, this article identifies a disconnection between preclinical and clinical research, and contextualizes, discusses, and integrates the existing preclinical information toward the optimized selection of candidates to be further explored (clinical level). Despite proved efficacy, this article discusses the barriers limiting the clinical development of natural mixtures, such as those in extracts from Calendula officinalis flowers and Heliotropium eichwaldii roots. On the contrary, isolated compounds are more straightforward candidates, among which arjunolic acid and quercetin stand out in this meta-analysis.

The possible antioxidant capabilities of formononetin in guarding against streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats

Background

Oxidative stress has been considered as a contributory aspect for major complications of diabetes mellitus consisting of diabetic nephropathy. This study aimed to examine the therapeutic effect of formononetin in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy through measuring biochemical parameters, oxidative indicators, and histopathological examination of renal tissues.

Results

Administration of a dose of STZ (55 mg/kg of body weight) intraperitoneal induced diabetic nephropathy in rats as indicated by an increase in serum glucose, creatinine, triglyceride, cholesterol, and BUN levels related to the depletion of serum albumin level. Besides, STZ treatment led to the depletion of antioxidant enzymes together with superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT). Administration of formononetin at the dose of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg extensively decreased biochemical parameters with a rise in serum albumin level. Formononetin was observed to improved antioxidant enzyme ranges and offered protection against lipid peroxidation (LPO). STZ administered rats show an elevated level of TNF-α and IL-6. Meanwhile, formononetin-treated rats inhibited the elevated level of cytokine.

Conclusion

This study concluded that formononetin may additionally modulate oxidative stress and protected renal tissues from STZ injury. It also showed improvement in renal histopathological architecture in STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy.

Gliclazide attenuates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity through inhibiting NF-κB and caspase-3 activity

Cisplatin (CP), as a chemotherapeutic drug, causes nephrotoxicity that has limited the clinical utility of CP. Gliclazide (GLZ), as an antihyperglycemic drug, at low dose has antioxidant property. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effect of GLZ against CP-induced acute renal injury. Sixty-four BALB/c mice were randomly divided into eight groups. The groups were included as control, GLZ (5, 10, and 25 mg/kg), CP, and GLZ (5, 10, and 25 mg/kg) + CP. Renal function markers (serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen), oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde and glutathione), apoptotic marker (caspase-3), and NF-κB were histopathologically evaluated. The results of our study showed that increased urea and creatinine were evidence of CP-induced nephrotoxicity. Histopathological examination revealed tubular epithelial and Bowman degeneration, edema, and cytoplasmic vacuolation in renal tissue structure. Administration of GLZ reduced oxidative stress, caspase-3, and NF-κB activity, and improved kidney function markers in CP-treated mice compared with CP alone group. Also, we observed that the histological tissue structure of the kidney was maintained. GLZ at dose of 25 mg/kg had higher protective effect as compared with other doses. Overall, our study suggests that GLZ with antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties may be a promising new therapeutic agent to prevent CP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Disulfiram potentiates the anticancer effect of cisplatin in atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT)

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is the most malignant tumor of the central nervous system that generally occurs in young children. Despite the use of intensive multimodal therapy for AT/RT, the prognosis is still poor. The brain tumor initiating cells in AT/RT cells has been suggested as one of the challenges in AT/RT treatment. These cells have high expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). We investigated the combination effect of the ALDH inhibitor, disulfiram and cisplatin in the treatment of AT/RT cells. Isobologram analysis revealed that the combination therapy synergistically increases AT/RT cell death. The enzyme activity of ALDH AT/RT cells was effectively reduced by the combination therapy. We proposed that the synergistic augmentation occurs, at least partially through an increase in cleaved Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-dependent apoptosis mediated by activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3). In the AT/RT mouse model, the combination therapy decreased tumor volume and prolonged survival. Immunofluorescence assay in mouse brain tissues were consistent with the expression of ATF3 and cleaved PARP. Our study demonstrates enhanced anti-cancer effect of combination therapy of disulfiram and cisplatin. This combination might provide a viable therapeutic strategy for AT/RT patients.

The combination of disulfiram and copper for cancer treatment

Disulfiram (DSF) is a thiuram derivative that was developed to treat alcoholism but was also found to have antitumor activity. Copper (Cu), as a trace metal, has important roles in the body. Numerous studies have shown that the combination of DSF and copper (DSF/Cu) greatly enhances its antitumor efficacy. Given that the efficacy of DSF is well established and its safety profile is understood, repurposing DSF as a new anticancer drug is a promising strategy. Here, we summarize the pharmacological effects of DSF and the role of Cu in cancer, and focus on the antitumor effect of DSF/Cu, especially the mechanisms involved in enhancing drug sensibility by targeting specific molecules. We also provide rational strategies for using DSF as a cancer therapy.

Histological and toxicological evaluation, in rat, of a P-glycoprotein inducer and activator: 1-(propan-2-ylamino)-4-propoxy-9H-thioxanthen-9-one (TX5)

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is an ATP-binding cassette transporter involved in the efflux of numerous compounds that influences the pharmacokinetics of xenobiotics. It reduces intestinal absorption and exposure of target cells to toxicity. Thioxanthones are compounds able to induce and/or activate P-gp in vitro. Particularly, 1-(propan-2-ylamino)-4-propoxy-9H-thioxanthen-9-one (TX5) behaves as a P-gp inducer and activator in vitro. The aims of this study were: i) to perform a histological characterization, by testing a single high dose of TX5 [30 mg/kg, body weight (b.w.), gavage], administered to Wistar Han rats, 24 hours after administration; and ii) to perform both a complete histological characterization and a preliminary safety evaluation, in distinct target organs, 24 hours after administration of a single lower dose of TX5 (10 mg/kg, b.w., gavage) to Wistar Han rats. The results showed a relevant histological toxicity for the higher dose of TX5 administered (30 mg/kg, b.w.), manifested by extensive hepatic necrosis and splenic toxicity (parenchyma with hyperemia, increased volume of both white and red pulp, increased follicles marginal zone). Moreover, in the kidneys, a slight hyperemia and tubular edema were observed in TX5-treated animals, as well as an inflammation of the small intestine. On the contrary, for the lower tested dose (10 mg/kg, b.w.), we did not observe any relevant histological toxicity in the evaluated organs. Additionally, no significant differences were found in the ATP levels between TX5-exposed and control animals in any of the evaluated organs, with the exception of the intestine, where ATP levels were significantly higher in TX5-treated rats. Similarly, TX5 caused a significant increase in the ratio GSH/GSSG only in the lungs. TX5 (10 mg/kg, b.w.) did not induce any change in any of the hematological and biochemical circulating evaluated parameters. However, TX5 was able to significantly reduce the activated partial thromboplastin time, without affecting the prothrombin time. The urine biochemical analysis revealed a TX5-mediated increase in both creatinine and sodium. Taken together, our results show that TX5, at a dose of 10 mg/kg, does not induce considerable toxicity in the biological matrices studied. Given this adequate safety profile, TX5 becomes a particularly interesting compound for ex vivo and in vivo studies, regarding the potential for induction and activation of P-gp at the intestinal barrier.

Protective Effect of Tunisian Flaxseed Oil against Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats

The aims of this study are to investigate the preventive effect of flaxseed oil (FO) on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Thirty adult male Wistar rats (180-220 g) were randomly divided into three groups. The control group (G1) received no treatment, the group (G2) received only intratracheally BLM, and the group (G3) received FO (2 mL/kg body weight) once a day for 60 days + BLM (4 mg/kg body weight "bw"). Our results demonstrated that FO protected against BLM-induced PF, by increasing proline, fructose, glucose, glyceride, choline, lactate, and malate metabolites in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (Balf) which are involved in anti-inflammatory reactions. Also, FO-treatment reduced the score of fibrosis and the inflammatory index and revealed a decrease in tumor growth factor beta (TGFβ) density in alveoli, inflammatory infiltrate and fibrocytes, comparatively to the BLM group. As well, our data demonstrated that acute BLM-induced fibrosis was accompanied by an oxidative stress in lung tissue as assessed by an increase of lipid peroxidation as well as antioxidant enzyme activities depletion such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). The FO treatment reversed all disturbances of BLM-induced oxidative stress parameters, and increased fatty acids levels promoting anti-inflammatory reactions especially in erythrocytes (linoleic, α-linolenic, docosapentaenoic acids).