Taraxerol, a pentacyclic triterpenoid, from Abroma augusta leaf attenuates diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetic rats

Comparative metabolomics study on areca nut from China and Southeast Asia (Thailand and Indonesia)

INTRODUCTION

Areca nut is an economic crop and an important component in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and ethnomedicine. The crop is rich in alkaloids and flavonoids. Most previous studies have focused on the chemical components, especially alkaloids, in crops from certain areca nut-producing areas.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in areca nut seeds in two main cultivation areas, identify differential metabolites, and evaluate seed quality in different production areas.

METHODS

A widely targeted metabolomics method based on ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QQQ-MS), combined with the TCM systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and multivariate statistical analysis, was used in this study to maximise the differentiation between quality characteristics of areca nut seeds from China and Southeast Asian regions.

RESULTS

Altogether, 1031 metabolites were identified in areca nut seeds; by querying the TCMSP database, 375 metabolites were identified as the main active ingredients. Moreover, the research showed that the metabolic profiles of areca nut seeds from China (ASCN) and Southeast Asia (ASSA) exhibit significant differences, and the difference is mainly reflected in 318 compounds. The relative content of 146 metabolites in ASCN was significantly higher than that in ASSA. Through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) comparative analysis, areca nut seed metabolites in Chinese production areas were determined to have a wider metabolic pathway.

CONCLUSION

The areca nut seeds from cultivation areas possess many metabolites that are beneficial for health, including alkaloids, amino acids, phenolic acids, and lipids. Thus, compared with ASSA, ASCN have a higher medicinal value. This study provides a direction for the subsequent development and utilisation of areca nut seeds.

Carbon Dots' Potential in Wound Healing: Inducing M2 Macrophage Polarization and Demonstrating Antibacterial Properties for Accelerated Recovery

Bacterial infections and persistent inflammation can impede the intrinsic healing process of wounds. To combat this issue, researchers have delved into the potential use of carbon dots (CDs) in the regulation of inflammation and counteract infections. These CDs were synthesized using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal process and have demonstrated outstanding antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, CDs displayed biocompatibility at therapeutic concentrations and the ability to specifically target mitochondria. CD treatment effectively nullified lipopolysaccharide-triggered reactive oxygen species production by macrophages, while simultaneously promoting macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype (M2), leading to a reduction in inflammation and an acceleration in wound healing. In vitro scratch assays also revealed that CDs facilitated the tissue-repairing process by stimulating epithelial cell migration during reepithelialization. In vivo studies using CDs topically applied to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated wounds in C57/BL6 mice demonstrated significant improvements in wound healing due to enhanced fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition. Crucially, histological investigations showed no indications of systemic toxicity in vital organs. Collectively, the application of CDs has shown immense potential in speeding up the wound-healing process by regulating inflammation, preventing bacterial infections, and promoting tissue repair. These results suggest that further clinical translation of CDs should be considered.

Nanomedicines for the management of diabetic nephropathy: present progress and prospects

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious microvascular consequence of diabetes mellitus (DM), posing an encumbrance to public health worldwide. Control over the onset and progress of DN depend heavily on early detection and effective treatment. DN is a major contributor to end-stage renal disease, and a complete cure is yet to be achieved with currently available options. Though some therapeutic molecules have exhibited promise in treating DN complications, their poor solubility profile, low bioavailability, poor permeation, high therapeutic dose and associated toxicity, and low patient compliance apprehend their clinical usefulness. Recent research has indicated nano-systems as potential theranostic platforms displaying futuristic promise in the diagnosis and treatment of DN. Early and accurate diagnosis, site-specific delivery and retention by virtue of ligand conjugation, and improved pharmacokinetic profile are amongst the major advantages of nano-platforms, defining their superiority. Thus, the emergence of nanoparticles has offered fresh approaches to the possible diagnostic and therapeutic strategies regarding DN. The present review corroborates an updated overview of different types of nanocarriers regarding potential approaches for the diagnosis and therapy of DN.

Roflumilast ameliorates diabetic nephropathy in rats through down-regulation of JAK/STAT signaling pathway

Roflumilast is a potent selective inhibitor of the phosphodiesterase-4 enzyme which greatly manifest an anti-inflammatory activity in chronic obstructive pulmonary patients. Inflammation is a prominent factor in the prevalence of diabetic nephropathy, one of the most prevalent microvascular complications of Diabetes Mellitus. The present study was undertaken to assess the potential role of roflumilast in diabetic nephropathy. The model was developed by feeding a high-fat diet for four weeks and following streptozotocin (30 mg/kg) injection intraperitoneally. The rats with > 13.8 mmol/L blood glucose were treated with roflumilast (0.25, 0.5, 1 mg/kg) and standard metformin (100 mg/kg) orally once a day for eight weeks. Roflumilast (1 mg/kg) remarkably improved renal damage, indicated by an increase in 16% albumin, a decrease in 5% serum creatinine, 12% BUN, 19% HbA1c, and 34% blood glucose. It also significantly improves the oxidative stress levels, which was indicated by a decrease in 18% MDA level and an increase in GSH, SOD, and catalase by 6%, 4%, and 5%, respectively. In addition, Roflumilast (1 mg/kg) decreased the HOMA-IR index by 28% and increased the pancreatic β-cells functioning by 30%. Moreover, significant improvement in histopathological abnormalities were observed in roflumilast treatment groups. Roflumilast treatment was shown to down-regulate the gene expressions of TNF-α (2.1-fold), NF-kB (2.3-fold), MCP-1 (2.5-fold), fibronectin (2.7-fold), collagen IV (2.7-fold), STAT 1(1.06-fold), and STAT 3 (1.20-fold) and upregulated the expression of the Nrf2 (1.43-fold) gene. Roflumilast manifested a potential role in diabetic nephropathy as a renoprotective agent. Roflumilast effectively down-regulates the JAK/STAT pathway and restores renal functions.

Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy’s Extraction, Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of the Potential Effects on Glycaemic Balance in a 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Cell Model

Convolvulus pluricaulis (CP) is a common Indian herb, largely employed in Ayurvedic medicine and known for its neuroprotective and neuroinflammatory action. Its effectiveness against several pathologic/sub-pathologic conditions is widely accepted, but it is not yet completely chemically characterized. In recent years, several researchers have pointed out the involvement of CP and other Convolvulaceae in lipidic and glucidic metabolism, particularly in the control of hyperlipidaemia and diabetic conditions. In this scenario, the aim of the study was to chemically characterize the medium polarity part of the CP whole plant and its fractions and to shed light on their biological activity in adipocyte differentiation using the 3T3-L1 cell model. Our results demonstrated that the CP extract and fractions could upregulate the adipocyte differentiation through the modulation of the nuclear receptor PPARγ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ), broadly recognized as a key regulator of adipocyte differentiation, and the glucose transporter GLUT-4, which is fundamental for cellular glucose uptake and for metabolism control. CP also showed the ability to exert an anti-inflammatory effect, downregulating cytokines such as Rantes, MCP-1, KC, eotaxin, and GM-CSF, which are deeply involved in insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Taken together, these data suggest that CP could exert a potential beneficial effect on glycemia and could be employed as an anti-diabetic adjuvant or, in any case, a means to better control glucose homeostasis.

Analysis of 14 terpenoids and sterols and variety discrimination of Codonopsis Radix using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Recently, we confirmed that the 95% ethanol-extracted fraction of Codonopsis Radix, which contains several triterpenoids and sterols, possesses pharmacological activities. However, due to the low content and diverse types of triterpenoids and sterols, their similar structures, lack of ultraviolet absorption, and difficulty in obtaining controls, few studies have so far assessed their contents in Codonopsis Radix. We accordingly constructed an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry technique for the simultaneous quantitative determination of 14 terpenoids and sterols. Separation was performed on the Waters Acquity UPLC HSS T3 C₁₈ column (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm) with 0.1% formic acid (A) and 0.1% formic acid in methanol (B) as mobile phase under gradient elution. The determination coefficients for each of the matrix calibration curves were ≥0.9925. The average recovery ranged from 81.25% to 118.05%, with relative standard deviations of <4%. The contents of 14 components in 23 batches were quantified and further analyzed through chemometrics. Linear discriminant analysis can distinguish sample varieties. The quantitative analysis method can accurately determine the contents of 14 components and thereby provide the chemical basis for the quality control of Codonopsis Radix. It also could be a valuable approach for the classification of different Codonopsis Radix varieties.

Treatment of Diabetes Nephropathy in Mice by Germinating Seeds of Euryale ferox through Improving Oxidative Stress

Diabetes can cause severe kidney disease. Euryale ferox seeds (Gordon Euryale) have known antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and renal protection effects. Methanol extracts of Gordon Euryale were produced from ungerminated and germinated seeds. The effect of germination on polyphenol and flavonoid content was investigated by Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Three doses of ungerminated seed extract (EKE) and germinated seed extract (GEKE) were administered to diabetic mice by gavage to explore the treatment-dependent improvement of oxidative stress, metabolic disorder, and kidney disease. Seed germination led to a 1.7 times increase in total phenol content in the extract, and the flavonoid content was increased by 1.9 times. Germination greatly increased the contents of 29 polyphenols and 1 terpenoid. At the same dose, GEKE more strongly improved hyperglycemia, abnormal lipid metabolism, and renal tissue lesions (as confirmed by histology) in the diabetic mice than EKE did. In diabetic mice receiving treatment, kidney microalbunminuria (ALB), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were all decreased, while activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) were increased. Both EKE and GEKE can improve diabetes and kidney disease by improving hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and kidney physiological indicators and regulating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 and AMPK/mTOR pathways. However, in both pathways, GEKE is more effective. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of GEKE and EKE treatment on antioxidant defense and metabolic capacity of diabetic animals. Germination provides a suitable strategy to improve the medicinal value of these natural plant-based products.

Altered glucose metabolism in Alzheimer's disease: Role of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress

Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal cerebral glucose metabolism is largely present in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The brain utilizes glucose as its main energy source and a decline in its metabolism directly reflects on brain function. Weighing on recent evidence, here we systematically assessed the aberrant glucose metabolism associated with amyloid beta and phosphorylated tau accumulation in AD brain. Interlink between insulin signaling and AD highlighted the involvement of the IRS/PI3K/Akt/AMPK signaling, and GLUTs in the disease progression. While shedding light on the mitochondrial dysfunction in the defective glucose metabolism, we further assessed functional consequences of AGEs (advanced glycation end products) accumulation, polyol activation, and other contributing factors including terminal respiration, ROS (reactive oxygen species), mitochondrial permeability, PINK1/parkin defects, lysosome-mitochondrial crosstalk, and autophagy/mitophagy. Combined with the classic plaque and tangle pathologies, glucose hypometabolism with acquired insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction potentiate these factors to exacerbate AD pathology. To this end, we further reviewed AD and DM (diabetes mellitus) crosstalk in disease progression. Taken together, the present work discusses the emerging role of altered glucose metabolism, contributing impact of insulin signaling, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the defective cerebral glucose utilization in AD.

Polyphenols target miRNAs as a therapeutic strategy for diabetic complications

MiRNAs are a large group of non-coding RNAs which participate in different cellular pathways like inflammation and oxidation through transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic regulation. In the post-transcriptional regulation, miRNA interacts with the 3'-UTR of mRNAs and prevents their translation. This prevention or dysregulation can be a cause of pathological conditions like diabetic complications. A huge number of studies have revealed the association between miRNAs and diabetic complications, including diabetic nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and delayed wound healing. To address this issue, recent studies have focused on the use of polyphenols as selective and safe drugs in the treatment of diabetes complications. In this article, we will review the involvement of miRNAs in diabetic complications' occurrence or development. Finally, we will review the latest findings on targeting miRNAs by polyphenols like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin for diabetic complications therapy.

Heterologous Biosynthesis of Taraxerol by Engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Taraxerol is an oleanane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid compound distributed in many plant species that has good effects on the treatment of inflammation and tumors. However, the taraxerol content in medicinal plants is low, and chemical extraction requires considerable energy and time, so taraxerol production is a problem. It is a promising strategy to produce taraxerol by applying recombinant microorganisms. In this study, a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain WKde2 was constructed to produce taraxerol with a titer of 1.85 mg·L-1, and the taraxerol titer was further increased to 12.51 mg·L-1 through multiple metabolic engineering strategies. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) size regulatory factor INO2, which was reported to increase squalene and cytochrome P450-mediated 2,3-oxidosqualene production, was overexpressed in this study, and the resultant strain WTK11 showed a taraxerol titer of 17.35 mg·L-1. Eventually, the highest reported titer of 59.55 mg·L-1 taraxerol was achieved in a 5 L bioreactor. These results will serve as a general strategy for the production of other triterpenoids in yeast.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles as potential treatment of triple negative breast cancer by suppressing PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a subset of breast cancer characterized by high aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Currently, there is no curative therapeutic regimen for TNBC patients. In this study, molecular hybridization strategy is adopted by combining benzopyran and indole pharmacophores together, and a library of structurally simple 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles was rapidly constructed. The structure-activity relationship studies indicated that compound 23 exhibited the most potent effect against the MDA-MB-231 cells with IC50 value of 2.29 μM. Mechanistic studies revealed that compound 23 inhibited cell proliferation via arresting cell cycle at G0/G1 phase. It induced cell apoptosis by disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduction of glutathione (GSH), elevation of intracellular calcium ion (Ca2+) and activation of caspase cascade. Furthermore, compound 23 significantly inhibited the regulators of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in MDA-MB-231 cells, suggesting that PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was involved in the 23-mediated apoptosis. To our knowledge, this is the first example of the anti-cancer activity study of indole-fused pyrans through suppressing PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Overall, the current study suggested that compound 23 would serve as a promising lead compound for TNBC treatment.

A review on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of the herb Scoparia dulcis L. for the potential treatment of metabolic syndrome

This review discusses the chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of Scoparia dulcis L. (S. dulcis) plants. So far, approximately 160 compounds have been identified from S. dulcis, among which 115 compounds may be related to the treatment of metabolic syndrome. Extracts of S. dulcis have effects of reducing fasting blood glucose level, increasing the plasma insulin level, and stimulating insulin secretion to treat diabetes. They also produce antihyperlipidemic effects by increasing serum high-density lipoprotein levels, the anti-atherogenic index of plasma, and HMG-CoA reductase activity. The chemical composition of glutinol and glutinone, isolated from S. dulcis, provide potential anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can also reduce total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol to provide the anti-atherosclerotic effect. S. dulcis exerts anti-arthritic properties through its effect on cytokine levels, significantly reducing IFN-γ and IL-6 levels and elevating IL-10 levels. The extracts carry out hepatoprotective effect by preventing the descent of the antioxidative enzymes of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRd), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST). Therefore, S. dulcis provides new potential for medicine given its numerous therapeutic properties and can be promoted as a complementary or alternative therapy for patients with chronic conditions.

This review discusses the chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of S. dulcis plants. S. dulcis provides new potential for medicine and can be promoted as a complementary or alternative therapy for patients with chronic conditions.

Purification and antioxidant properties of triterpenic acids from blackened jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) by macroporous resins

In order to investigate the purification process and antioxidant activity of triterpenic acids from blackened jujube, the macroporous resin was applied to purify the crude extract from blackened jujube. The adsorption and desorption characterizations of five different macroporous adsorption resins (AB-8, D-101, X-5, HPD-100, S-8) for triterpenic acids of blackened jujube were compared, the optimum purification resins were screened, and the purification parameters were optimized. The antioxidant activity of crude extracts and purified products from blackened jujube was analyzed. The results showed that D-101 resin possessed the best effect on the purification of blackened jujube triterpenic acids. The optimum purification parameters were as follows: sample concentration 25.5 μg/ml, 130 ml of the sample volume was with a flow rate of 2.0 ml/min, eluted with 95% ethanol, and speed flow was 1.0 ml/min. The purity of triterpenic acids was increased by 2.49 times after purification with a recovery rate of (78.58 ± 0.67)%. Furthermore, the IC50 values of hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity from triterpenic acids crude extract and purified substances were 0.900 and 0.850 mg/ml, respectively, and the IC50 values of superoxide anion radical were 0.745 and 0.594 mg/ml, respectively, indicating that the antioxidative capacity of the purified product was stronger than the crude extract. The purified triterpenic acids (PTA) groups at different doses had excellent protective effects on H2O2-induced damage HUVEC cells. Results have revealed that triterpenic acids of blackened jujube have good antioxidant function and utilization and development prospects.

Network Pharmacology/Metabolomics-Based Validation of AMPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway as a Central Role of Shengqi Fuzheng Injection Regulation of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cancer-Related Fatigue

Chinese herbal medicines have multiple targets and properties, and their use in multidisciplinary cancer therapies has consequently received increasing attention. Here, we have investigated the possible active ingredients associated with cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in the Shengqi Fuzheng Injection (SFI). In vitro cell models were used to measure the regulation effects of SFI on CRF. Metabolomic analysis was used to identify the potential genes and pathways in C2C12 mouse myoblasts treated with SFI, and the interaction of compounds and CRF targets was predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses. The putative pathways were further verified using immuno-blotting assays. The results showed that SFI significantly inhibited muscle cell apoptosis and increased the mitochondrial membrane potential of muscle cells. The network pharmacology analysis results identified 36 candidate compounds, and 244 potential targets were yielded by SFI, and they shared 10 key targets associated with cancer-related fatigue. According to the enrichment analysis and experimental validation, SFI might ameliorate muscle cell mitochondrial function by activating AMPK and inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, and the expression changes of mitochondrial metabolic enzymes MnSOD and apoptosis-associated proteins Bax and Bcl-2 were also triggered. The functions and mechanisms of SFI in anticancer-related fatigue were found here to be at least partly due to the targeting of the AMPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, and this has highlighted new potential applications for network pharmacology when researching Chinese Medicines.

Malaysian Propolis and Metformin Synergistically Mitigate Kidney Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetic nephropathy is reported to occur as a result of the interactions between several pathophysiological disturbances, as well as renal oxidative stress and inflammation. We examined the effect of Malaysian propolis (MP), which has anti-hyperglycemic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, on diabetes-induced nephropathy. Diabetic rats were either treated with distilled water (diabetic control (DC) group), MP (300 mg/kg b.w./day), metformin (300 mg/kg b.w./day) or MP + metformin for four weeks. We found significant increases in serum creatinine, urea and uric acid levels, decreases in serum sodium and chloride levels, and increase in kidney lactate dehydrogenase activity in DC group. Furthermore, malondialdehyde level increased significantly, while kidney antioxidant enzymes activities, glutathione level and total antioxidant capacity decreased significantly in DC group. Similarly, kidney immunoexpression of nuclear factor kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and caspase-3 increased significantly, while IL-10 immunoexpression decreased significantly in DC group relative to normal control group. Histopathological observations for DC group corroborated the biochemical data. Intervention with MP, metformin or both significantly mitigated these effects and improved renal function, with the best outcome following the combined therapy. MP attenuates diabetic nephropathy and exhibits combined beneficial effect with metformin.

Review of the Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activities of Rhoicissus Species (Vitaceae)

Species within the genus Rhoicissus (Vitaceae) are commonly used in South African traditional medicine. The current review discusses the occurrence, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Rhoicissus species covering the period 1981–2020. The data reported were systematically collected, read, and analysed from scientific electronic databases including Scopus, Scifinder, Pubmed, and Google Scholar. Reported evidence indicates that species in this genus are used for the treatment of gastrointestinal complaints, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and infertility, as well as to tone the uterus during pregnancy and to facilitate delivery. Pharmacological studies have further shown that members of the Rhoicissus genus display antidiabetic, uterotonic, ascaricidal, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. They are linked to the presence of bioactive compounds isolated from the genus. Hence, Rhoicissus species can potentially be an alternative therapeutic strategy to treat diseases and develop safer and more potent drugs to combat diseases. Plant species of this genus have valuable medicinal benefits due to their significant pharmacological potential. However, scientific investigation and information of the therapeutic potential of Rhoicissus remain limited as most of the species in the genus have not been fully exploited. Therefore, there is a need for further investigations to exploit the therapeutic potential of the genus Rhoicissus. Future studies should evaluate the phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological activities, as well as the mode of action, of Rhoicissus crude extracts and secondary compounds isolated from the species.

Polydatin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles ameliorates early diabetic nephropathy by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat

In various developed countries, diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the principal cause of end-stage kidney disease and a main reason of injury and mortality in individuals with renal morbidity worldwide. Polydatin (POL) has been evaluated as a potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and a nephroprotective agent. In spite of this, the possible benefits and protective effects of POL on early diabetic nephropathy are not quite clarified. For the effective clearance from the body besides safe drug delivery, biodegradable nanoparticles have interesting attraction. This work was designed to evaluate the positive effect and possible mechanisms of Polydatin-loaded Chitosan-Nanoparticles (POL-NPs) on early DN in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Followed the induction of diabetes, rats classified into four groups, diabetic control and diabetic rats treated daily and orally with; POL, Polydatin-loaded chitosan-Nanoparticles (POL-NPs), plus normal control rats. Our findings showed that diabetic group presented a significant high level of the blood glucose, blood glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum insulin, renal function related parameters, renal Advanced glycation-end products (AGEs) and lipid peroxidation level compared to normal control rats, while serum albumin level and the activities of renal antioxidant enzymes were significantly decreased. Moreover, in the kidney of diabetic rat mRNA expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) were up-regulated. Besides, increase in serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-18) and decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10). POL and POL-NPs supplementation were significantly attenuate the above-mention results and returned the normal equilibrium between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, POL and POL-NPs have antidiabetic effect, suppresses oxidative stress and mitigates renal inflammation through inhibition of NF-κB in diabetic kidney in early progressive DN.

Myricitrin, a Glycosyloxyflavone in Myrica esculenta Bark Ameliorates Diabetic Nephropathy via Improving Glycemic Status, Reducing Oxidative Stress, and Suppressing Inflammation

The present study evaluated the therapeutic potential of myricitrin (Myr), a glycosyloxyflavone extracted from Myrica esculenta bark, against diabetic nephropathy. Myr exhibited a significant hypoglycemic effect in high fat-fed and a single low-dose streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic (T2D) rats. Myr was found to improve glucose uptake by the skeletal muscle via activating IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/GLUT4 signaling in vitro and in vivo. Myr significantly attenuated high glucose (HG)-induced toxicity in NRK cells and in the kidneys of T2D rats. In this study, hyperglycemia caused nephrotoxicity via endorsing oxidative stress and inflammation resulting in the induction of apoptosis, fibrosis, and inflammatory damages. Myr was found to attenuate oxidative stress via scavenging/neutralizing oxidative radicals and improving endogenous redox defense through Nrf-2 activation in both in vitro and in vivo systems. Myr was also found to attenuate diabetes-triggered renal inflammation via suppressing NF-κB activation. Myr inhibited hyperglycemia-induced apoptosis and fibrosis in renal cells evidenced by the changes in the expressions of the apoptotic and fibrotic factors. The molecular docking predicted the interactions between Myr and different signal proteins. An in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) study predicted the drug-likeness character of Myr. Results suggested the possibility of Myr to be a potential therapeutic agent for diabetic nephropathy in the future.

Bioactive Agent Discovery from the Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Rat Model

Diabetes mellitus is a well-known chronic metabolic disease that poses a long-term threat to human health and is characterized by a relative or absolute lack of insulin, resulting in hyperglycemia. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) typically affects many metabolic pathways, resulting in β-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, abnormal blood glucose levels, inflammatory processes, excessive oxidative reactions, and impaired lipid metabolism. It also leads to diabetes-related complications in many organ systems. Antidiabetic drugs have been approved for the treatment of hyperglycemia in T2DM; these are beneficial for glucose metabolism and promote weight loss, but have the risk of side effects, such as nausea or an upset stomach. A wide range of active components, derived from medicinal plants, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenol, quinones, and terpenoids may act as alternative sources of antidiabetic agents. They are usually attributed to improvements in pancreatic function by increasing insulin secretions or by reducing the intestinal absorption of glucose. Ease of availability, low cost, least undesirable side effects, and powerful pharmacological actions make plant-based preparations the key player of all available treatments. Based on the study of therapeutic reagents in the pathogenesis of humans, we use the appropriate animal models of T2DM to evaluate medicinal plant treatments. Many of the rat models have characteristics similar to those in humans and have the advantages of ease of genetic manipulation, a short breeding span, and access to physiological and invasive testing. In this review, we summarize the pathophysiological status of T2DM rat models and focus on several bioactive compounds from herbal medicine with different functional groups that exhibit therapeutic potential in the T2DM rat models, in turn, may guide future approach in treating diabetes with natural drugs.

Health benefits of 4,4-dimethyl phytosterols: an exploration beyond 4-desmethyl phytosterols

4,4-Dimethyl phytosterols possess two methyl groups at the carbon-4 atom of the aliphatic A-ring. The methyl groups are crucial for the molecular recognition of endogenous and exogenous bioactive compounds. Phytosterols have received worldwide attention owing to their recognized health benefits. However, 4,4-dimethyl phytosterols are less appreciated. Recent research studies revealed that 4,4-dimethyl phytosterols exert numerous beneficial effects on disease prevention, and are particularly involved in the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS). The purpose of this review is to summarize and highlight the currently available information regarding the structures and sources of 4,4-dimethyl phytosterols, and to provide detailed preclinical studies performed to evaluate their potential for treating various diseases. Future research on 4,4-dimethyl phytosterols is warranted to confirm their relationship with the ECS, and to elucidate the mechanism directly toward clinical trials.

Serjanic Acid Improves Immunometabolic Markers in a Diet-Induced Obesity Mouse Model

Plant extracts from Cecropia genus have been used by Latin-American traditional medicine to treat metabolic disorders and diabetes. Previous reports have shown that roots of Cecropia telenitida that contains serjanic acid as one of the most prominent and representative pentacyclic triterpenes. The study aimed to isolate serjanic acid and evaluate its effect in a prediabetic murine model by oral administration. A semi-pilot scale extraction was established and serjanic acid purification was followed using direct MALDI-TOF analysis. A diet induced obesity mouse model was used to determine the impact of serjanic acid over selected immunometabolic markers. Mice treated with serjanic acid showed decreased levels of cholesterol and triacylglycerols, increased blood insulin levels, decreased fasting blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity. At transcriptional level, the reduction of inflammation markers related to adipocyte differentiation is reported.

Plant-Based Antidiabetic Nanoformulations: The Emerging Paradigm for Effective Therapy

Diabetes mellitus is a life-threatening metabolic syndrome. Over the past few decades, the incidence of diabetes has climbed exponentially. Several therapeutic approaches have been undertaken, but the occurrence and risk still remain unabated. Several plant-derived small molecules have been proposed to be effective against diabetes and associated vascular complications via acting on several therapeutic targets. In addition, the biocompatibility of these phytochemicals increasingly enhances the interest of exploiting them as therapeutic negotiators. However, poor pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical attributes of these phytochemicals largely restrict their clinical usefulness as therapeutic agents. Several pharmaceutical attempts have been undertaken to enhance their compliance and therapeutic efficacy. In this regard, the application of nanotechnology has been proven to be the best approach to improve the compliance and clinical efficacy by overturning the pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical obstacles associated with the plant-derived antidiabetic agents. This review gives a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the nanoformulations of phytochemicals in the management of diabetes and associated complications. The effects of nanosizing on pharmacokinetic, biopharmaceutical and therapeutic profiles of plant-derived small molecules, such as curcumin, resveratrol, naringenin, quercetin, apigenin, baicalin, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, berberine, gymnemic acid, emodin, scutellarin, catechins, thymoquinone, ferulic acid, stevioside, and others have been discussed comprehensively in this review.

Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Medicinal Plants and Their Bioactive Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Review

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that majorly affects the endocrine gland, and it is symbolized by hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance owing to deficient insulin secretory responses and beta cell dysfunction. This ailment affects as many as 451 million people worldwide, and it is also one of the leading causes of death. In spite of the immense advances made in the development of orthodox antidiabetic drugs, these drugs are often considered not successful for the management and treatment of T2DM due to the myriad side effects associated with them. Thus, the exploration of medicinal herbs and natural products as therapeutic sources for the treatment of T2DM is promoted because they have little or no side effects. Bioactive molecules isolated from natural sources have been proven to lower blood glucose levels via regulating one or more of the following mechanisms: improvement of beta cell function, insulin resistance, glucose (re)absorption, and glucagon-like peptide-1 homeostasis. In recent times, the mechanisms of action of different bioactive molecules with antidiabetic properties and phytochemistry are gaining a lot of attention in the area of drug discovery. This review article presents an update of the findings from clinical research into medicinal plant therapy for T2DM.

Aptamer-Functionalized Drug Nanocarrier Improves Hepatocellular Carcinoma toward Normal by Targeting Neoplastic Hepatocytes

Site-specific delivery of chemotherapeutics specifically to neoplastic hepatocytes without affecting normal hepatocytes should be a focus for potential therapeutic management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aptamer TLS 9a with phosphorothioate backbone modifications (L5) has not been explored so far for preferential delivery of therapeutics in neoplastic hepatocytes to induce apoptosis. Thus, the objective of the present investigation was to compare the therapeutic potential of L5-functionalized drug nanocarrier (PTX-NPL5) with those of the other experimental drug nanocarriers functionalized by previously reported HCC cell-targeting aptamers and non-aptamer ligands, such as galactosamine and apotransferrin. A myriad of well-defined investigations such as cell cycle analysis, TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling) assay, and studies related to apoptosis, histopathology, and immunoblotting substantiated that PTX-NPL5 had the highest potency among the different ligand-attached experimental formulations in inducing selective apoptosis in neoplastic hepatocytes via a mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic pathway. PTX-NPL5 did not produce any notable toxic effects in healthy hepatocytes, thus unveiling a new and a safer option in targeted therapy for HCC. Molecular modeling study identified two cell-surface biomarker proteins (tumor-associated glycoprotein 72 [TAG-72] and heat shock protein 70 [HSP70]) responsible for ligand-receptor interaction of L5 and preferential internalization of PTX-NPL5 via clathrin-mediated endocytosis in neoplastic hepatocytes. The potential of PTX-NPL5 has provided enough impetus for its rapid translation from the pre-clinical to clinical domain to establish itself as a targeted therapeutic to significantly prolong survival in HCC.

Enhancement of glucose homeostasis through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway by dietary with Agaricus blazei Murrill in STZ-induced diabetic rats

Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) is an edible fungus. This study investigated the protective role of ABM fruiting body against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. After 4 weeks of ABM supplement, glucose homeostasis was improved in diabetic rats. Quantitative real-time and Western blot analyses suggested that ABM could promote the gene and protein expression level of insulin receptor, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, phospho-kinase B, kinase B, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, glucose transporter-4, and glutamine synthetase, while inhibiting the expression of glycogen synthase kinase 3β and c-jun N-terminal kinase 1 and 2. According to multivariate and univariate statistical analysis, liver metabolite profiles of the normal and diabetic rats fed basal and experimental diet were clearly separated. The differential liver metabolites from diabetic rats fed basal and ABM diet-related pathways including the glycolysis pathway, pentose phosphate pathway, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation were analyzed. A total of 18 potential biomarker metabolites were identified as differential biomarkers associated with ABM supplement diet.

Carnosic Acid Attenuates Cadmium Induced Nephrotoxicity by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Promoting Nrf2/HO-1 Signalling and Impairing TGF-β1/Smad/Collagen IV Signalling

Cadmium (Cd) imparts nephrotoxicity via triggering oxidative stress and pathological signal transductions in renal cells. The present study was performed to explore the protective mechanism of carnosic acid (CA), a naturally occurring antioxidant compound, against cadmium chloride (CdCl₂)-provoked nephrotoxicity employing suitable in vitro and in vivo assays. CA (5 µM) exhibited an anti-apoptotic effect against CdCl₂ (40 µM) in normal kidney epithelial (NKE) cells evidenced from cell viability, image, and flow cytometry assays. In this study, CdCl₂ treatment enhanced oxidative stress by triggering free radical production, suppressing the endogenous redox defence system, and inhibiting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation in NKE cells and mouse kidneys. Moreover, CdCl₂ treatment significantly endorsed apoptosis and fibrosis via activation of apoptotic and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad)/collagen IV signalling pathways, respectively. In contrast, CA treatment significantly attenuated Cd-provoked nephrotoxicity via inhibiting free radicals, endorsing redox defence, suppressing apoptosis, and inhibiting fibrosis in renal cells in both in vitro and in vivo systems. In addition, CA treatment significantly (p < 0.05–0.01) restored blood and urine parameters to near-normal levels in mice. Histological findings further confirmed the protective role of CA against Cd-mediated nephrotoxicity. Molecular docking predicted possible interactions between CA and Nrf2/TGF-β1/Smad/collagen IV. Hence, CA was found to be a potential therapeutic agent to treat Cd-mediated nephrotoxicity.

WNT Signaling in Disease. Cells. 2019;8:826. [PMID: 31382613 PMCID: PMC6721652 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080826]

Developmental signaling pathways control a vast array of biological processes during embryogenesis and in adult life. The WNT pathway was discovered simultaneously in cancer and development. Recent advances have expanded the role of WNT to a wide range of pathologies in humans. Here, we discuss the WNT pathway and its role in human disease and some of the advances in WNT-related treatments.

Rosmarinic Acid Attenuates Cadmium-Induced Nephrotoxicity via Inhibition of Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, Inflammation and Fibrosis

The present investigation was executed to reveal the protective mechanism of rosmarinic acid (RA) against cadmium (Cd)-induced nephrotoxicity. RA exhibited a concentration-dependent anti-apoptotic effect against CdCl2 in isolated mouse proximal tubular epithelial cells. Cd treatment significantly (p < 0.01) imparted oxidative stress to the renal cells via excessive ROS production, triggering NO level, NADPH oxidase activation, and impairment of cellular redox defense system. Cd-mediated oxidative stress significantly (p < 0.01) endorsed apoptosis to the murine kidney cells by triggering NF-κB/PKC-δ/TNFR2 activation. In addition, CdCl2 induced renal fibrosis by triggering TGF-β1/SMAD3/α-SMA/collagen signaling within renal cells. On the other hand, RA significantly (p < 0.05-0.01) attenuated Cd-provoked oxidative stress and associated pathological signal transduction in murine renal cells. RA treatment also could significantly (p < 0.05-0.01) reciprocate Cd-mediated pathological changes in blood and urine parameters in mice. In addition, histological data supported the pharmacological findings. In silico chemometric analyses predicted the possible interactions between RA and different signal proteins and anticipated drug-likeness characteristics of RA. Hence, RA can potentially be applied as a therapeutic agent to treat Cd-mediated nephrotoxicity in future.

Hispidulin alleviates high-glucose-induced podocyte injury by regulating protective autophagy

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common complications in patients with diabetes, and the discovery of novel targeted therapeutic approaches for DN treatment still faces severe challenges. In the current study, we aimed to discover a novel natural product for potential DN treatment and determine its molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methylthiazoltetrazolium (MTT) assay was employed to evaluate cell viability. Transmission electron microscopy, GFP-LC3 fluorescence fusion plasmid, and Annexin V/PI apoptosis assay were carried out to determine cellular autophagy and apoptosis. Moreover, quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analysis, Western blotting, and RNA interference were performed to investigate potential molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Hispidulin displayed protective capacity on the high-glucose-induced podocyte injury models by activating autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis. The mechanism for hispidulin-induced autophagy was associated to Pim1 inhibition and the regulation of Pim1-p21-mTOR signaling axis. Moreover, quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analysis revealed that the hispidulin-regulated Pim1 inhibition was associated to RAB18, NRas, PARK7, and FIS1.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that hispidulin induces autophagy and inhibits apoptosis induced by high glucose in murine podocytes. This study will illuminate future developments in DN-targeted therapy.

Carnosic Acid, a Natural Diterpene, Attenuates Arsenic-Induced Hepatotoxicity via Reducing Oxidative Stress, MAPK Activation, and Apoptotic Cell Death Pathway

The present studies have been executed to explore the protective mechanism of carnosic acid (CA) against NaAsO₂-induced hepatic injury. CA exhibited a concentration dependent (1–4 μM) increase in cell viability against NaAsO₂ (12 μM) in murine hepatocytes. NaAsO₂ treatment significantly enhanced the ROS-mediated oxidative stress in the hepatic cells both in in vitro and in vivo systems. Significant activation of MAPK, NF-κB, p53, and intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signaling was observed in NaAsO₂-exposed hepatic cells. CA could significantly counteract with redox stress and ROS-mediated signaling and thereby attenuated NaAsO₂-mediated hepatotoxicity. NaAsO₂ (10 mg/kg) treatment caused significant increment in the As bioaccumulation, cytosolic ATP level, DNA fragmentation, and oxidation in the liver of experimental mice (n = 6). The serum biochemical and haematological parameters were significantly altered in the NaAsO₂-exposed mice (n = 6). Simultaneous treatment with CA (10 and 20 mg/kg) could significantly reinstate the NaAsO₂-mediated toxicological effects in the liver. Molecular docking and dynamics predicted the possible interaction patterns and the stability of interactions between CA and signal proteins. ADME prediction anticipated the drug-likeness characteristics of CA. Hence, there would be an option to employ CA as a new therapeutic agent against As-mediated toxic manifestations in future.

Taraxerol as a possible therapeutic agent on memory impairments and Alzheimer's disease: Effects against scopolamine and streptozotocin-induced cognitive dysfunctions

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with cognitive impairment and cholinergic neuronal death, characteristic of the effect of time on biochemical neuronal function. The use of medicinal plants as an alternative form of prevention, or even as a possible treatment of AD, is therefore interesting areas of research, since the standard drugs have many side effects. Taraxerol (TRX) is a triterpene that has been isolated from several plant species, and its various pharmacological properties have already been identified, such the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition activity in vitro. There is a lack of information in literature that confirms the effect of TRX in an animal AD-like model. Seeking to fill this gap in the literature, in the present work we assessed the effect of TRX on AChE activity in the animals' encephalon and hippocampus. We also investigated the effect of TRX (1.77 µM/side, 0.5 μL) isolated from leaves of Eugenia umbelliflora Berg. on aversive memory impairments induced by scopolamine (2 µg/side, 0.5 µL) infused into rat hippocampus, and the effect of TRX (0.89 and 1.77 µM/side, 0.5 μL) on aversive memory impairments induced by streptozotocin (STZ) (2.5 mg/mL, 2.0 µL) infused i.c.v. into mice, using the step-down inhibitory avoidance task. We found that TRX significantly inhibited AChE activity in the animal's hippocampus. Furthermore, TRX significantly improved scopolamine and STZ-induced memory impairment. Taking together, these results confirms its AChE activity inhibition in animals and indicate that TRX has anti-amnesic activity that may hold significant therapeutic value in alleviating certain memory impairments observed in AD.

Antihyperglycemic effect of hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, extenuates hyperglycemia and exploring the potential role in antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes is the major health problem in modern civilization which occurs due to inadequate metabolism of carbohydrate and lipid could cause tremendous changes in the metabolic activities of liver. In this study, we investigated the antihyperglycemic, antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic effects of hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced experimental rats. To stimulate diabetes mellitus, rats were injected with STZ intraperitoneally at a single dose of 45mg/kg. STZ induced rats showed marked increase in the level of plasma glucose and significant reduction in the level of plasma insulin. The activities of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, hepatic glycogen, lipid profiles, enzymic antioxidants in circulatory system and pancreas, hepatic and renal functional markers were explored. Supplementation with hesperetin (40mg/kg b.w) to STZ-induced experimental rats for 45days established a significant decline in plasma glucose and a marked improvement in plasma insulin and glycogen levels in STZ-induced rats. The altered activities of hepatic glucose metabolic enzymes, lipid profiles, enzymic antioxidants and serum biomarkers of liver and kidney toxicity were restored to almost normal. The acquired outcome were compared with glibenclamide (1mg/kg b.w), a standard oral hypoglycemic drug. Hesperetin treatment was found to be efficient in protecting the normal histological manifestation of hepatic, renal and insulin positive β-cells in STZ induced rats. On the basis of current experimental findings, we concluded that administration of hesperetin attenuates the hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia through ameliorating antioxidant competence in STZ-induced experimental rats.