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El-Sheikh MM, Aziz MM, Abdelrahman SSM, Mohmad MAEH. The protective effect of crocin against testicular toxicity induced by ionizing radiation via AKT/FOXO pathway. Environ Toxicol 2023; 38:2981-2992. [PMID: 37615252 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Crocin, a pharmacologically active component of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), has been informed to be beneficial in the treatment of stress-related oxidative impairment. In the present study, we examined the protective role of crocin against testicular damage induced by radiation (acute and fractionated) and the alteration of the AKT/FOXO signaling pathway. Male Wister albino rats were exposed to acute dose of 6 Gy and a fractionated dose of gamma radiation (2 Gy every 2 days up to 6 Gy total doses). Rats were pretreated intraperitoneally with crocin in a dose of 50 mg/kg for seven consecutive days prior to exposure to irradiation at a level of 6 Gy and during the fractionated irradiation of rats. Control groups were run concurrently. Ionizing radiation caused changes in the level of oxidative stress biomarkers manifested as elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, total nitrate/nitrite and reactive oxygen species (ROS) associated with a decrease in catalase as well as in the level of inflammatory parameters (decrease in expression of Nrf2 which was related to a significant increase in expression of NF-κB p65). Irradiation produced cellular damage characterized by an increase in serum lactate dehydrogenase. These findings were aligned with increased expression of the forkhead box O-1 (FOXO-1) and activation of protein kinase B (AKT) pathway. Irradiation of rats led to reduction in serum testosterone level and testicular weights. Pretreatment with the indicated dose of crocin shielded against the changes in all the evaluated parameters. Administration of crocin can be introduced as a novel preclinical approach for regulation of testicular damage induced by radiation; via controlling the ongoing oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction as well as activation FOXO/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M El-Sheikh
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha M Aziz
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sahar S M Abdelrahman
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Abd El Hameed Mohmad
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
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De la Fuente Muñoz M, Román-Carmena M, Amor S, García-Villalón ÁL, Espinel AE, González-Hedström D, Granado García M. Effects of Supplementation with the Standardized Extract of Saffron (affron ®) on the Kynurenine Pathway and Melatonin Synthesis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1619. [PMID: 37627614 PMCID: PMC10451224 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is mainly synthesized in the pineal gland from tryptophan after its conversion into serotonin. Under normal conditions, less than 5% of tryptophan is reserved for the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin. The remaining 95% is metabolized in the liver through the kynurenine pathway. Increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and cortisol increase the metabolism of tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway and reduce its availability for the synthesis of melatonin and serotonin, which may cause alterations in mood and sleep. The standardized saffron extract (affron®) has shown beneficial effects on mood and sleep disorders in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the effects of affron® supplementation on the kynurenine pathway and the synthesis of melatonin in rats. For this purpose, adult male Wistar rats were supplemented for 7 days with 150 mg/kg of affron® or vehicle (2 mL/kg water) administered by gavage one hour before sleep. Affron® supplementation reduced body weight gain and increased the circulating levels of melatonin, testosterone, and c-HDL. Moreover, animals supplemented with affron® showed decreased serum levels of kynurenine, ET-1, and c-LDL. In the pineal gland, affron® reduced Il-6 expression and increased the expression of Aanat, the key enzyme for melatonin synthesis. In the liver, affron® administration decreased the mRNA levels of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway Ido-2, Tod-2, and Aadat, as well as the gene expression of Il-1β and Tnf-α. Finally, rats treated with affron® showed increased mRNA levels of the antioxidant enzymes Ho-1, Sod-1, Gsr, and Gpx-3, both in the liver and in the pineal gland. In conclusion, affron® supplementation reduces kynurenine levels and promotes melatonin synthesis in rats, possibly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making this extract a possible alternative for the treatment and/or prevention of mood and sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario De la Fuente Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Marta Román-Carmena
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Sara Amor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Ángel Luís García-Villalón
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Alberto E. Espinel
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Daniel González-Hedström
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Miriam Granado García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Farzaei MH, Ramezani-Aliakbari F, Ramezani-Aliakbari M, Zarei M, Komaki A, Shahidi S, Sarihi A, Salehi I. Regulatory effects of trimetazidine in cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2023; 396:1633-1646. [PMID: 36971866 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02469-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a tissue damage during reperfusion after an ischemic condition. I/R injury is induced by pathological cases including stroke, myocardial infarction, circulatory arrest, sickle cell disease, acute kidney injury, trauma, and sleep apnea. It can lead to increased morbidity and mortality in the context of these processes. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of I/R insult, which is induced via reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, and autophagy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are non-coding RNAs that play a main regulatory role in gene expression. Recently, there are evidence, which miRNAs are the major modulators of cardiovascular diseases, especially myocardial I/R injury. Cardiovascular miRNAs, specifically miR-21, and probably miR-24 and miR-126 have protective effects on myocardial I/R injury. Trimetazidine (TMZ) is a new class of metabolic agents with an anti-ischemic activity. It has beneficial effects on chronic stable angina by suppressing mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening. The present review study addressed the different mechanistic effects of TMZ on cardiac I/R injury. Online databases including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane library were assessed for published studies between 1986 and 2021. TMZ, an antioxidant and metabolic agent, prevents the cardiac reperfusion injury by regulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), cystathionine-γ-lyase enzyme (CSE)/hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and miR-21. Therefore, TMZ protects the heart against I/R injury by inducing key regulators such as AMPK, CSE/H2S, and miR-21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Medical Technology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Ramezani-Aliakbari
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Zarei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Alireza Komaki
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Sciences and Advanced Technology in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Siamak Shahidi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Sciences and Advanced Technology in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Abdolrahman Sarihi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Sciences and Advanced Technology in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Iraj Salehi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Sciences and Advanced Technology in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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El-Ashmawy NE, Khedr EG, Doghish AS, Elballal MS. Carnosine and crocin ameliorate oxidative stress in rats with rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury through upregulating HO-1 gene expression. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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El-Ashmawy NE, Khedr EG, Doghish AS, Elballal MS. Carnosine and crocin ameliorate oxidative stress in rats with rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury through upregulating HO-1 gene expression. FOOD BIOSCI 2022; 49:101972. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
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Shahbaz K, Chang D, Zhou X, Low M, Seto SW, Li CG. Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:825842. [PMID: 35991882 PMCID: PMC9388830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.825842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Shahbaz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Sai Wang Seto
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Reserach Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: Fatigue is a manifestation of sub-health status, which causes serious negative effects in daily life. The antioxidant properties of crocin have been widely investigated in many diseases. However, no correlation between crocin and fatigue was reported. Objective: To verify the anti-fatigue efficacy of crocin in swimming-induced exhaustive time. Materials and Methods: In this study, mice were treated with crocin for 28 days to assess its anti-fatigue efficacy. Exhaustive time, fatigue-relevant biochemical indices, inflammatory cytokines, energy metabolism indicators, oxidation parameters, and the NRF-2/HO-1 pathway were analyzed to explore evidence of crocin in high-intensity exercise. Results: Our research indicated that crocin dramatically extended swimming-induced exhaustive time. In strenuous swimming, crocin clearly eliminated BLA and SUN to maintain internal environment homeostasis, while it markedly improved glycogen concentrations in the muscles and liver to promote energy reserves. Moreover, crocin visibly improved the inflammatory reaction, as represented by reductions in TNF-a and IL-6, promoting endurance capacity. In the muscles, crocin noticeably enhanced SDH and Na+K+-ATP activities to improve energy metabolism in strenuous swimming. Lastly, crocin markedly improved SOD and CAT activities via the NRF-2/HO-1 pathway to defend against oxidative stress-induced fatigue. Conclusions: Crocin provides oxidation resistance and can be developed into anti-fatigue nutriments. Evidence level II; Comparative prospective study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Ming
- Hunan University of Arts and Science, China
| | - Liu Xianchu
- Hunan University of Arts and Science, China; Hunan Normal University, China
| | - Li Sha
- Hunan University of Arts and Science, China
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Bastani S, Vahedian V, Rashidi M, Mir A, Mirzaei S, Alipourfard I, Pouremamali F, Nejabati H, Kadkhoda J, Maroufi NF, Akbarzadeh M. An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113297. [PMID: 35738178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Vahedian
- Cancer Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Institute of Biotechnology (FMB-IBTEC) Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Mir
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institutitue of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection - Faculty of Natural Sciences - University of Silesia - Katowice - Poland
| | - Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamileh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Predieri S, Magli M, Gatti E, Camilli F, Vignolini P, Romani A. Chemical Composition and Sensory Evaluation of Saffron. Foods 2021; 10:2604. [PMID: 34828885 PMCID: PMC8618029 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The quality and economic value of saffron, one of the most counterfeited spices, are based on three key substances that are relatively easy to measure: crocines (colour); picrocrocines (bitter); safranal (odour impact). Despite being well-known, as their concentration is correlated to sensory intensity, a detailed sensory evaluation, performed by a trained panel, supported by advanced analytical approaches, may better show the relationships between saffron composition and sensory perception. Three saffron samples of different Italian origins (Sardinia and Tuscany) were evaluated by a trained sensory panel and their chemical composition was determined by HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) and spectrophotometry. Safranal concentration and the perceived odour intensity were positively correlated while relationships between picrocrocine and bitter perception were more complex to detect. By correlating (Multiple Factor Analysis) saffron sensorial and chemical profiles, this work aims at improving saffron characterisation while providing better information on the quality of this valuable spice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Predieri
- IBE-CNR, Institute of BioEconomy, c/o Area della Ricerca di Bologna, Via P. Gobetti, 101, 40129 Bologna, BO, Italy; (S.P.); (M.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Massimiliano Magli
- IBE-CNR, Institute of BioEconomy, c/o Area della Ricerca di Bologna, Via P. Gobetti, 101, 40129 Bologna, BO, Italy; (S.P.); (M.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Edoardo Gatti
- IBE-CNR, Institute of BioEconomy, c/o Area della Ricerca di Bologna, Via P. Gobetti, 101, 40129 Bologna, BO, Italy; (S.P.); (M.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Francesca Camilli
- IBE-CNR, Institute of BioEconomy, Via Caproni 8, 50145 Firenze, FI, Italy;
| | - Pamela Vignolini
- Phytolab, Department of Statistics, Informatics, Applications “G.Parenti”, DiSIA, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy;
| | - Annalisa Romani
- Phytolab, Department of Statistics, Informatics, Applications “G.Parenti”, DiSIA, University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy;
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Ganjiani V, Ahmadi N, Divar MR, Sharifiyazdi H, Meimandi-Parizi A. Protective effects of crocin on testicular torsion/detorsion in rats. Theriogenology 2021; 173:241-248. [PMID: 34399388 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress, caused by extreme accumulation of un-scavenged reactive oxygen species, plays an integral role in the Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R) injury to the testicles following testicular torsion. The current research aimed to examine the protective effects of crocin as a natural antioxidant on testicular I/R injury in rats. Animals were divided randomly into five groups (seven each): (1) sham group, (2) torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, (3) intact group with 100 mg/kg crocin, (4) and (5) T/D groups followed by treatment with two different doses of crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg (IP)). I/R injury was induced by 720° clockwise torsion of the left testicles for 2 h. After 24 h of reperfusion, blood samples and epididymal sperms were collected to measure biochemical (GPx, SOD, and MDA), hormonal (testosterone), and sperm parameters (total sperm recovery, motility, viability, and morphology). Moreover, affected testicles were subjected to histopathology examination. I/R injury caused a significant reduction in sperm characteristics (except for morphology) (P < 0.05), which could not be significantly improved by crocin administration at either dose (P > 0.05). Johnsen's testicular score, mean seminiferous tubular diameter, and germinal epithelial cell thickness were significantly decreased in the T/D group compared to the intact and sham groups. However, crocin could significantly improve the histopathological parameters in both treatment groups compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). T/D reduced SOD and GPx activity and testosterone level significantly (except for GPx) compared to the sham group (P < 0.05). However, crocin administration could significantly reverse them. Also, crocin reduced the amount of MDA significantly in the high-dose treatment group in comparison to T/D group (P < 0.05). The results of the current study revealed that crocin could be a promising agent to protect against I/R injury following surgical correction of the testicular torsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Ganjiani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Nasrollah Ahmadi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Divar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Hassan Sharifiyazdi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
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Sedighi M, Ghorbanzadeh V, Abaszadeh S, Karimi A, Cheraghi M, Rafieian-Kopaei M, Moghimian M, Mohammadi A, Veiskarami S, Mokhayeri Y, Nazari A. Up-regulation of chemokine receptor type 4 expression in the ischemic reperfused heart by alcoholic extract of Cichorium intybus rescue the heart from ischemia injury in male rat. J Pharm Pharmacol 2021; 73:1351-1360. [PMID: 34076244 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgab076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cichorium intybus is used in traditional medicine for various diseases including heart disease. This study aimed at evaluating the chemokine receptor type 4 up-regulation and cardioprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extract of C. intybus in a rat model of ischemic reperfusion. METHODS Animals in four groups of eight rats each received vehicle or one of three doses of C. intybus (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg/d) for 14 days. Then they were subjected to 30 min of ischemia followed by 7 days of reperfusion. At the end of the experiment, blood specimens were prepared for serum assays. The level of myocardium chemokine receptor type 4 was also measured using RT-PCR. KEY FINDINGS Cichorium intybus (CI-50) improved infarct size, episodes of the ventricular ectopic beat, ventricular tachycardia, and duration of ventricular tachycardia, QTc shortening. It also stabilized the ST segment changes and increased heart rate during ischemia. The blood pressure decreased in CI-50 group in comparison to the control and CI-200 group. C. intybus increased serum superoxide dismutase and reduced lactate dehydrogenase activity, Cardiac Troponin I and malondialdehyde levels. C. intybus led to an increase in the expression of chemokine receptor type 4. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that C. intybus administration before ischemia is able to induce cardioprotective effect against ischemic reperfusion injury, probably through chemokine receptor type 4 over-expression and antioxidant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrnoosh Sedighi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Rahimi Hospital, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoramabad, Iran
| | - Vajihe Ghorbanzadeh
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Saber Abaszadeh
- Department of clinical biochemistry, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Arash Karimi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Anesthesiologist, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mostafa Cheraghi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Rahimi Hospital, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoramabad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Siences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Maryam Moghimian
- Department of Physiology, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Asghar Mohammadi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Rahimi Hospital, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoramabad, Iran
| | - Saeid Veiskarami
- Lorestan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Department of animal science, Iran
| | - Yaser Mokhayeri
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Rahimi Hospital, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoramabad, Iran
| | - Afshin Nazari
- Department of Physiology, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
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Kadoglou NPE, Christodoulou E, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. The cardiovascular-protective properties of saffron and its potential pharmaceutical applications: A critical appraisal of the literature. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6735-6753. [PMID: 34448254 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is used in traditional medicine for its healing properties and the treatment of various pathological conditions. The present literature review aimed to summarize and evaluate the preclinical and clinical data regarding the protective effects and mechanisms of saffron and its main components (crocin, crocetin, safranal) on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Many in vitro and animal studies have been conducted implicating antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, and antiinflammatory impact of saffron and its constituents. Notably, there is evidence of direct atherosclerosis regression and stabilization in valid atherosclerosis-prone animal models. However, current clinical trials have shown mostly weak effects of saffron and its constituents on cardiovascular risk factors: (a) Modest lowering of fasting blood glucose, without significant reduction of HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients, (b) moderate/controversial hypolipidemic effects, (c) negligible hypotensive effect, and (d) inconsistent modification of metabolic syndrome parameters. There are important drawbacks in clinical trial design, including the absence of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic tests, the wide variance of doses and cohorts' characteristics, the small number of patients, the short duration. Therefore, large, properly designed, high-quality clinical trials, focusing on specific conditions are required to evaluate the biological/pharmacological activities and firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron and its possible therapeutic uses in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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13
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Abstract
Ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) cause a reduction in arterial blood supply to tissues, followed by the restoration of perfusion and consequent reoxygenation. The reestablishment of blood flow triggers further damage to ischemic tissue through reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, interference with cellular ion homeostasis, opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (mPTPs) and promotion of cell death (apoptosis or necrosis). PKC-δ and PKC-ε, belonging to a family of serine/threonine kinases, have been demonstrated to play important roles during I/R injury in cardiovascular diseases. However, the cardioprotective mechanisms of PKC-δ and PKC-ε in I/R injury have not been elaborated until now. This article discusses the roles of PKC-δ and PKC-ε during myocardial I/R in redox regulation (redox signaling and oxidative stress), cell death (apoptosis and necrosis), Ca2+ overload, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Peking University Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Medical School (Xi yuan), Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dazhuo Shi
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Ming Guo
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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14
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Shah HM, Jain AS, Joshi SV, Kharkar PS. Crocetin and related oxygen diffusion-enhancing compounds: Review of chemical synthesis, pharmacology, clinical development, and novel therapeutic applications. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:883-895. [PMID: 33817811 PMCID: PMC8273373 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The current pandemic forced us to introspect and revisit our armamentarium of medicinal agents which could be life‐saving in emergency situations. Oxygen diffusion‐enhancing compounds represent one such class of potential therapeutic agents, particularly in ischemic conditions. As rewarding as the name suggests, these agents, represented by the most advanced and first‐in‐class molecule, trans‐sodium crocetinate (TSC), are the subject of intense clinical investigation, including Phase 1b/2b clinical trials for COVID‐19. Being a successor of a natural product, crocetin, TSC is being investigated for various cancers as a radiosensitizer owing to its oxygen diffusion enhancement capability. The unique properties of TSC make it a promising therapeutic agent for various ailments such as hemorrhagic shock, stroke, heart attack, among others. The present review outlines various (bio)synthetic strategies, pharmacological aspects, clinical overview and potential therapeutic benefits of crocetin and related compounds including TSC. The recent literature focusing on the delivery aspects of these compounds is covered as well to paint the complete picture to the curious reader. Given the potential TSC holds as a first‐in‐class agent, small‐ and/or macromolecular therapeutics based on the core concept of improved oxygen diffusion from blood to the surrounding tissues where it is needed the most, will be developed in future and satisfy the unmet medical need for many diseases and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hriday M Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashvi S Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Shreerang V Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Prashant S Kharkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
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15
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Akbari G. Emerging roles of microRNAs in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury: a review. J Physiol Biochem 2020; 76:525-537. [PMID: 33140255 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-020-00772-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (II/R) injury is a serious pathological phenomenon in underlying hemorrhagic shock, trauma, strangulated intestinal obstruction, and acute mesenteric ischemia which associated with high morbidity and mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are endogenous non-coding RNAs that regulate post-transcriptionally target mRNA translation via degrading it and/or suppressing protein synthesis. This review discusses on the role of some miRNAs in underlying II/R injury. Some of these miRNAs can have protective action through agomiR or specific antagomiR, and others can have destructive effects in the basal level of II/R insult. Based on these literature reviews, II/R injury affects several miRNAs and their specific target genes. Some miRNAs upregulate under condition of II/R injury, and multiple miRNAs downregulate following II/R damage. Data of this review have been collected from the scientific articles published in databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scientific Information Database from 2000 to 2020. It is shown a correlation between changes in the expression of miRNAs and autophagy, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and epithelial barrier function. Taken together, agomiR or antagomiR of some miRNAs can be considered as one new target for the research and development of innovative drugs to the prevention or treatment of II/R damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghaidafeh Akbari
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.
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16
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Ahmed S, Hasan MM, Heydari M, Rauf A, Bawazeer S, Abu-Izneid T, Rebezov M, Shariati MA, Daglia M, Rengasamy KR. Therapeutic potentials of crocin in medication of neurological disorders. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 145:111739. [PMID: 32916219 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurological sicknesses are serious, multifactorial, debilitating disorders that may cause neurodegeneration. Neuroprotection is the protection of the structure and capacity of neurons from affronts emerging from cell injuries instigated by an assortment of specialists or neurodegenerative diseases. Various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy, afflict many people worldwide, with increasing age representing the leading risk factor. Crocin is a natural carotenoid compound which was found to have therapeutic potentials in the management of the neurological disease. In this review, we focused on the restorative capabilities of Crocin as a neuroprotective agent. The general neuroprotective impact and the various conceivable basic components identified with Crocin have been examined. In light of the substantial proof indicating the neuro-pharmacological viability of Crocin to different exploratory standards, it is concluded that Crocin exerts direct antioxidant, antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities by multiple signaling pathways. Besides, Crocin was found to elevate dopamine level in the brain during the experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Thus, this compound has been demonstrated to be a promising option for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, with few adverse effects. It ought to be further considered as a potential contender for neuro-therapeutics, concentrating on the mechanistic and clinical evidence for its effects.
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Abstract
Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a serious condition which is associated with myocardial infarction, stroke, acute kidney injury, trauma, circulatory arrest, sickle cell disease, and sleep apnea and can lead to high morbidity and mortality. Salts of zinc (Zn) are commonly used by humans and have protective effects against gastric, renal, hepatic, muscle, myocardial, or neuronal ischemic injury. The present review evaluates molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of Zn supplement against I/R injury. Data of this review have been collected from the scientific articles published in databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, and Scientific Information Database from 1991 to 2019. Zn supplementation increased the decreased parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione (GSH), metallothionein (MT), protein sulfhydryl (P-SH), and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) expression and decreased the increased elements such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, malondialdehyde (MDA), serum level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and microRNAs-(122 and 34a), apoptotic factors, and histopathological changes. Zn also increases phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) phosphorylation and preserves protein kinase C isoforms. It is suggested that Zn can be administered before elective surgeries for prevention of side effects of I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghaidafeh Akbari
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.
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18
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Omidkhoda SF, Razavi BM, Imenshahidi M, Rameshrad M, Hosseinzadeh H. Evaluation of possible effects of crocin against nitrate tolerance and endothelial dysfunction. Iran J Basic Med Sci 2020; 23:303-310. [PMID: 32440316 PMCID: PMC7229501 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2019.39604.9389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Objective(s): One of the most important problems of taking nitroglycerin is the nitrate tolerance phenomenon and endothelial dysfunction. Oxidative stress is a high-emphasized one of tolerance mechanisms. The possible effect of crocin, one of the anti-oxidant ingredients of saffron, on the nitrate tolerance model was investigated. Materials and Methods: In the present study, lipid peroxidation and the level of activated and deactivated forms of eNOS were measured. Animals were administered subcutaneously with 25 mg/kg of nitroglycerin, twice a day for 3 days to induce nitrate tolerance model. For evaluation of crocin effects, 20, 40 and 80 mg/kg/day of this compound were injected intraperitoneally in concomitant with nitroglycerin. In the isolated aorta test, after preparation of aorta rings, different concentrations of acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside and nitroglycerin were added to the organ bath after inducing contraction by phenylephrine and the responsiveness of tissues was recorded. Results: Findings showed that nitroglycerin administration caused a remarkable overproduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the cells and crocin treatment significantly decreased the MDA level. In the nitrate tolerance group, the level of activated eNOS decreased and the level of deactivated eNOS increased. Crocin partly alleviated these changes: however, its effects were not remarkable. Nitroglycerin injection for 3 days developed tolerance to nitroglycerin and cross-tolerance to acetylcholine (endothelial dysfunction) and sodium nitroprusside. Crocin failed to influence significantly on the nitrate tolerance. Conclusion: Crocin effectiveness is possibly time-dependent; therefore, increasing the duration of treatment with crocin may lead to a significant prevention of nitrate tolerance and endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Farzaneh Omidkhoda
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - BiBi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohsen Imenshahidi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Rameshrad
- Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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19
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Abdel-Rahman RF, El Awdan SA, Hegazy RR, Mansour DF, Ogaly HA, Abdelbaset M. Neuroprotective effect of Crocus sativus against cerebral ischemia in rats. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:427-439. [PMID: 31728890 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-019-00505-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the neuroprotective effect of Crocus sativus (saffron) against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) in rats. Four groups of a total forty I/R rats with 60-min occlusion followed by 48 h reperfusion or sham surgery were used. The sham and left-brain I/R control groups where treated with normal saline. The rats of the other two groups received saffron extract (100 or 200 mg/kg, ip, respectively) for 3 successive weeks prior to left-brain I/R. Other four doses of saffron extract were received by the rats of the last 2 groups 60 min prior to operation, during the surgery, and on days 1 and 2 following reperfusion. I/R group showed marked neurobehavioral, neurochemical and histopathological alterations. The results revealed a significant reduction in neurological deficit scores in the saffron-treated rats at both doses. Saffron significantly attenuated lipid peroxidation, decreased NO and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) contents in I/R-brain tissue. On the other hand, saffron reversed the depletion of GSH in the injured brain. Moreover, saffron treatment evidently reduced apoptosis as revealed by a decrease in caspase-3 and Bax protein expression with a marked decrease in the apoptotic neuronal cells compared to I/R group. In addition, saffron administration effectively upregulated the expression of VEGF in I/R-brain tissue. In conclusion, saffron treatment offers significant neuroprotection against I/R damage possibly through diminishing oxidative stress and apoptosis and enhancement of VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rehab R Hegazy
- Pharmacology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Dina F Mansour
- Pharmacology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - H A Ogaly
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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20
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Zhong K, Wang RX, Qian XD, Yu P, Zhu XY, Zhang Q, Ye YL. Neuroprotective effects of saffron on the late cerebral ischemia injury through inhibiting astrogliosis and glial scar formation in rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 126:110041. [PMID: 32113053 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study is to explore the neuroprotective effects and involved glial scar of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on the late cerebral ischemia in rats. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in Sprague Dawley rats that were randomly divided into sham group, MCAO group, edaravone group (as a positive control) and saffron groups (saffron extract 30, 100, 300 mg/kg). Saffron was administered orally at 2 h at the first day and once daily from day 2 to 42 after ischemia. Behavioral changes were detected from day 43 to 46 after ischemia to evaluate the effects of saffron. Infarct volume, survival neuron density, activated astrocyte, and the thickness of glial scar were also detected. GFAP, neurocan, phosphocan, neurofilament expressions and inflammatory cytokine contents were detected by Western-blotting and ELISA methods, respectively. Saffron improved the body weight loss, neurological deficit and spontaneous activity. It also ameliorated anxiety-like state and cognitive dysfunction, which were detected by elevated plus maze (EPM), marble burying test (MBT) and novel object recognition test (NORT). Toluidine blue staining found that saffron treatment decreased the infarct volume and increased the neuron density in cortex in the ischemic boundary zone. The activated astrocyte number and the thickness of glial scar in the penumbra zone reduced after saffron treatment. Additionally, saffron decreased the contents of IL-6 and IL-1β, increased the content of IL-10 in the ischemic boundary zone. GFAP, neurocan, and phosphocan expressions in ischemic boundary zone and ischemic core zone all decreased after saffron treatment. Saffron exerted neuroprotective effects on late cerebral ischemia, associating with attenuating astrogliosis and glial scar formation after ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rou-Xin Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - Ping Yu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin-Ying Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Lu Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Rajabian A, Hosseini A, Hosseini M, Sadeghnia HR. A Review of Potential Efficacy of Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.) in Cognitive Dysfunction and Seizures. Prev Nutr Food Sci 2019; 24:363-372. [PMID: 31915630 PMCID: PMC6941716 DOI: 10.3746/pnf.2019.24.4.363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus (saffron) is traditionally used to relieve several ailments. Experimental researches have also investigated applications of saffron and its active constituents for the treatment of a wide spectrum of disorders. This review discusses pharmacological/therapeutic properties of saffron and its main components on memory function, learning ability and seizures, to highlight their merit for alleviating these disorders. An extensive literature review was carried out using various databases including ISI Web of Knowledge, Medline/PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, Biological Abstracts, and Chemical Abstracts. The growing body of evidence showed the value of saffron and its' components, alone, or in combination with the other pharmaceuticals, for improving learning and memory abilities and controlling seizures. These findings may provide pharmacological basis for the use of saffron in cognitive disturbance and epilepsy. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Rajabian
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177944553, Iran
| | - Azar Hosseini
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177944553, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hosseini
- Division of Neurocognitive Sciences, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177944553, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Sadeghnia
- Division of Neurocognitive Sciences, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177944553, Iran
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Ghafarzadeh S, Hobbenaghi R, Tamaddonfard E, Farshid AA, Imani M. Crocin exerts improving effects on indomethacin-induced small intestinal ulcer by antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Vet Res Forum 2019; 10:277-284. [PMID: 32206222 PMCID: PMC7065578 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2018.93512.2256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Crocin is a plant-derived carotenoid and bears potent antioxidant property. Ranitidine (a histamine H2 receptor blocker) is used for peptic ulcer treatment. The present study was planned to investigate the effects of crocin and ranitidine on indomethacin-induced ulcer in small intestine of rats. Animals were randomized into two major groups including indo-methacin (10.00 mg kg-1, ulcer group, 48 rats) and normal saline (1.00 mL kg-1, intact group, 48 rats) groups. Each of these two major groups was subdivided into eight subgroups for intra-peritoneal (IP) injections of normal saline, crocin (2.50, 10.00 and 40.00 mg kg-1), ranitidine (5.00 and 20.00 mg kg-1), crocin (2.50 and 10.00 mg kg-1) plus ranitidine (5.00 mg kg-1). Indomethacin induced intestinal ulcer was characterized by bleeding, inflammation, epithelial hyperplasia and crypt loss. This non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), indomethacin decreased goblet cell number and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and increased small intestine weight, organo-somatic index (OSI), malodealdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and caspase-3 contents of intestine. Crocin resolved all the above-mentioned parameter changes induced by indomethacin. These treatments produced no significant effects on the above-mentioned parameters of intact group. The results of the present study showed tissue protective and anti-ulcer effects of crocin on small intestine by antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Ranitidine alone showed no effect; however, in combination with crocin it exerted recovery effects. It is recommended that crocin, be considered as a therapeutic agent for NSAIDs-induced intestinal damage management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadat Ghafarzadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Rahim Hobbenaghi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Esmaeal Tamaddonfard
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Amir Abbas Farshid
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mehdi Imani
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
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