The antioxidant activity and neuroprotective mechanism of isoliquiritigenin

Snake Venom-Inspired Novel Peptides Protect Caenorhabditis elegans against Paraquat-Induced Parkinson's Pathology

The in vivo protective mechanisms of two low-molecular-mass (∼1.4 kDa) novel custom peptides (CPs) against paraquat-induced neurodegenerative dysfunction in the Caenorhabditis elegans model were deciphered. CPs prevented the paraquat from binding to the nerve ring adjacent to the pharynx in C. elegans (wild-type) by stable and high-affinity binding to the tyrosine-protein kinase receptor CAM-1, resulting in significant inhibition of paraquat-induced toxicity by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and chemosensory dysfunction. The CPs inhibited paraquat-induced dopaminergic neuron degeneration and alpha-synuclein protein expression, the hallmarks of Parkinson's disease, in transgenic BZ555 and NL5901 strains of C. elegans. Transcriptomic, functional proteomics, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses show that CPs prevented the increased expression of the genes involved in the skn-1 downstream pathway, thereby restoring paraquat-mediated oxidative stress, apoptosis, and neuronal damage in C. elegans. The ability of CPs to repair paraquat-induced damage was demonstrated by a network of gene expression profiles, illustrating the molecular relationships between the regulatory proteins.

Isoliquiritigenin, an Extract from Licorice, Attenuates Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy via Akt/mTOR Pathway

Muscle atrophy is a pathological condition characterized by the excessive degradation of muscle proteins, leading to impaired physical performance. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a promising extract known for its medical effects; however, its impact on muscle atrophy remains unclear. We investigated the effects of ISL on muscle atrophy both in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that 5-µM ISL exhibited no significant cytotoxicity on C2C12 cells, as reflected by cell count kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) tests. ISL increased the diameter of myotubes and downregulated forkhead box O proteins, muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 (MuRF-1), and Atrogin-1 induced by Dexamethasone (Dex). ISL could also enhance the phosphorylation of Akt, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), eIF4E-binding protein 1, and p70 S6 kinase in C2C12 myotubes. In animal experiments, ISL increased the muscle mass, improved the cross-sectional area of muscles, and inhibited the expression of MuRF-1 and Atrogin-1 in muscle tissues. For physical performance, ISL enhanced grip strength and running endurance. ISL ameliorated Dex-induced muscle atrophy both in vitro and in vivo, associated with increased diameter of myotubes and decreased Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 expression via the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. This suggested that ISL could be used as a natural drug for muscle atrophy.

Integrated Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Pharmacological Effects and Differential Mechanisms of Isoflavone Biosynthesis in Four Species of Glycyrrhiza

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza L.) is a globally popular medicinal and edible plant, with nearly 30 species distributed across all continents. The usable part is primarily the root. To understand the metabolic differences among different Glycyrrhiza species, we selected four species and performed comprehensive analyses of their roots. Metabolomic profiling was conducted using UPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS, while transcriptomic analysis was carried out using RNA-sequencing. A total of 2716 metabolites were identified, including flavonoids (527 types) and terpenoids (251 types), among various other components. Subsequently, network pharmacology was employed to explore the medicinal value and potential pharmacological ingredients of these metabolites. Joint analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed significant differences in differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in pairwise comparisons among the four species. These differences were primarily enriched in the isoflavone pathway. Further investigation into the regulatory mechanisms of isoflavone biosynthesis in different Glycyrrhiza species identified key genes and metabolites involved in isoflavone biosynthesis. Finally, we made reasonable predictions of the potential suitable habitats for the four Glycyrrhiza species, aiming to provide new insights for the development and utilization of licorice resources. The results of this study can serve as a basis for the development and utilization of licorice and for in-depth research on the regulation of isoflavone biosynthesis in licorice.

Isoglycyrrhizin supplementation of frozen goat semen-extender improves post-thaw sperm quality and in vitro fertilization rates

This study examined the effect of supplementation of freezing extender with isoglycyrrhizin (ISL), a natural antioxidant agent, on the quality and fertility potential of goat spermatozoa after cryopreservation. Forty ejaculates were collected from eight Chongming White rams and diluted with five concentrations of ISL: 0 (control group), 50, 100, 150, and 200 μg/mL. The quality, motility parameters, antioxidant properties, mRNA expression of antioxidant and ferroptosis genes, and ability to induce fertilization, were evaluated following freezing/thawing. Total motility and progressive motility were significantly increased in spermatozoa following the addition of 150 and 200 μg/mL ISL. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activities were enhanced in all ISL-supplemented groups compared to controls. Adding ISL decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO). mRNA levels of ferroptosis-related genes, voltage-dependent anion channel protein 2 (VDAC2), voltage-dependent anion channel protein 3 (VDAC3), protein 53 (P53), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) tended to decrease after adding ISL, whereas the levels of antioxidant genes glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX5), tended to increase. The best spermatozoa quality and the strongest antioxidant properties were obtained after adding 150 μg/mL ISL. Therefore, fresh semen, frozen semen, and frozen semen with 150 μg/mL ISL was used for in vitro fertilization of oocytes. The cleavage and blastocyst rates were significantly lower in frozen semen compared with fresh semen, whereas frozen semen containing 150 μg/mL ISL showed a significant increase in cleavage and blastocyst rates compared with frozen semen. In conclusion, ISL can be used as an antioxidant in goat semen cryodilution, and the addition of ISL can improve the quality and antioxidant properties of frozen and thawed spermatozoa. ISL can also protect the ability of spermatozoa to be fertilized and develop; 150 μg/mL ISL was the optimal concentration for addition.

Comprehensive profiling of traditional herbomineral formulation Manasamitra vatakam in rat brain following oral administration and in-silico screening of the identified compound for anti-Alzheimer's activity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Multi-targeted drug therapy has received substantial attention for the treatment of diseases of multifactorial origin, such as neurodegenerative diseases. Manasamitra vatakam (MMV) is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation used to improve cognitive impairment and mental illness. Here we have used a unique method for leveraging the barrier properties of the intestinal and blood-brain barrier (BBB) to screen and identify the bioactive molecules against Alzheimer's disease (AD). The current method exemplifies a facile method to expedite drug discovery from traditional formulations.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to identify the phytoconstituents of MMV that reach the brain tissue and to predict major bioactive constituents by computational docking studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After oral administration of the formulation, brain samples from male Sprague Dawley rats were collected at different time intervals and analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to identify the phytoconstituents. In silico molecular docking studies were carried out to analyze the binding affinity of the compounds to the target proteins of AD using Schrodinger Maestro. The molecular dynamic studies were carried out for all the docked complexes having higher docking scores.

RESULTS

34 phytoconstituents were identified by LC-MS analysis of brain homogenates. In the in silico docking study, the phytoconstituents chrysin, convolvin, rutin, galangin, palmatoside G, isoliquiritigenin, quercetin, and naringenin showed higher docking score against the target proteins of AD. These compounds may serve as the primary bioactive compounds responsible for the neuroprotective activity of the herbal formulation. Furthermore, molecular dynamic studies indicated that the galangin-acetylcholinesterase enzyme complex has the highest stability among these eight compounds.

CONCLUSION

The study, together with previous in vivo and in vitro efficacy results, suggests that BBB-permeable compounds with high binding affinities for the target proteins of AD might be responsible for the effectiveness of MMV against AD.

Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Provide Key Molecular Insights into Floral Stage-Driven Flavonoid Pathway in Safflower

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb renowned for its high flavonoid content and significant medicinal value. However, the dynamic changes in safflower petal flavonoid profiles across different flowering phases present a challenge in optimizing harvest timing and medicinal use. To enhance the utilization of safflower, this study conducted an integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of safflower petals at different flowering stages. Our findings revealed that certain flavonoids were more abundant during the fading stage, while others peaked during full bloom. Specifically, seven metabolites, including p-coumaric acid, naringenin chalcone, naringenin, dihydrokaempferol, apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin, accumulated significantly during the fading stage. In contrast, dihydromyricetin and delphinidin levels were notably reduced. Furthermore, key genes in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, such as 4CL, DFR, and ANR, exhibited up-regulated expression with safflower's flowering progression, whereas CHI, F3H, and FLS were down-regulated. Additionally, exposure to UV-B stress at full bloom led to an up-regulation of flavonoid content and altered the expression of key flavonoid biosynthetic genes over time. This study not only elucidates the regulatory mechanisms underlying flavonoid metabolism in safflower but also provides insights for maximizing its medicinal and industrial applications.

Traditionally used edible medicinal plants protect against rotenone induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells-a prospect for the development of herbal nutraceuticals

Plants are good sources of pharmacologically active compounds. The present study aimed to examine the neuroprotective potentials of the methanol extracts of Salix tetrasperma Roxb. leaf (STME) and Plantago asiatica L. (PAME), two edibles medicinal plants of Manipur, India against neurotoxicity induced by rotenone in SH-SY5Y cells. Free radical quenching activities were evaluated by ABTS and DPPH assays. The cytotoxicity of rotenone and the neuronal survival were assessed by MTT assay and MAP2 expression analysis. DCF-DA, Rhodamine 123 (Rh-123), and DAPI measured the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and apoptotic nuclei, respectively. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activities were also assessed. LC-QTOF-MS analysis was performed for the identification of the compounds present in STME and PAME. The study showed that both the plant extracts (STME and PAME) showed antioxidant and neuroprotective capabilities in rotenone-induced neurotoxicity by preventing oxidative stress through the reduction of intracellular ROS levels and reversing the activities of GPx, SOD, and CAT caused by rotenone. Further, both plants prevented apoptotic cell death by normalizing the steady state of MMP and protecting nuclear DNA condensation. LC-QTOF-MS analysis shows the presence of known neuroprotective compounds like uridine and gabapentin in STME and PAME respectively. The two plants might be an important source of natural antioxidants and nutraceuticals with neuroprotective abilities. This could be investigated further to formulate herbal nutraceuticals for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease like Parkinson's disease.

Biological effects and mechanisms of dietary chalcones: latest research progress, future research strategies, and challenges

Dietary plants are an indispensable part of the human diet, and the various natural active compounds they contain, especially polyphenols, polysaccharides, and amino acids, have always been a hot topic of research among nutritionists. As precursors to polyphenolic substances in dietary plants, chalcones are not only widely distributed but also possess a variety of biological activities due to their unique structure. However, there has not yet been a comprehensive article summarizing the biological activities and mechanisms of dietary chalcones. This review began by discussing the dietary sources and bioavailability of chalcones, providing a comprehensive description of their biological activities and mechanisms of action in antioxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-tumor, and resistance to pathogenic microbes. Additionally, based on the latest research findings, some future research strategies and challenges for dietary chalcones have been proposed, including computer-aided design and molecular docking, targeted biosynthesis and derivative design, interactions between the gut microbiota and chalcones, as well as clinical research. It is expected that this review will contribute to supplementing the scientific understanding of dietary chalcones and promoting their practical application and the development of new food products.

Glaucoma and the ocular renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system: Update on molecular signalling and treatment perspectives

Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, encompasses a group of pathological conditions affecting the optic nerve and is characterized by progressive retinal ganglion cell loss, cupping of the optic nerve head, and distinct visual field defects. While elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the main risk factor for glaucoma, many patients do not have elevated IOP. Consequently, other risk factors, such as ocular blood flow abnormalities and immunological factors, have been implicated in its pathophysiology. Traditional therapeutic strategies primarily aim to reduce IOP, but there is growing interest in developing novel treatment approaches to improve disease management and reduce the high rates of severe visual impairment. In this context, targeting the ocular renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) has been found as a potential curative strategy. The RAAS contributes to glaucoma development through key effectors such as prorenin, angiotensin II, and aldosterone. Recent evidence has highlighted the potential of using RAAS modulators to combat glaucoma, yielding encouraging results. Our study aims to explore the molecular pathways linking the ocular RAAS and glaucoma, summarizing recent advances that elucidate the role of the RAAS in triggering oxidative stress, inflammation, and remodelling in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Additionally, we will present emerging therapeutic approaches that utilize RAAS modulators and antioxidants to slow the progression of glaucoma.

Isoliquiritigenin ameliorates abnormal oligodendrocyte development and behavior disorders induced by white matter injury

Background

White matter injury is a predominant form of brain injury in preterm infants. However, effective drugs for its treatment are currently lacking. Previous studies have shown the neuroprotective effects of Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), but its impact on white matter injury in preterm infants remains poorly understood.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of ISL against white matter injury caused by infection in preterm infants using a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced white matter injury, integrating network pharmacology as well as in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Methods

This study explores the potential mechanisms of ISL on white matter injury by integrating network pharmacology. Core pathways and biological processes affected by ISL were verified through experiments, and motor coordination, anxiety-like, and depression-like behaviors of mice were evaluated using behavioral experiments. White matter injury was observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining, Luxol Fast Blue staining, and electron microscopy. The development of oligodendrocytes and the activation of microglia in mice were assessed by immunofluorescence. The expression of related proteins was detected by Western blot.

Results

We constructed a drug-target network, including 336 targets associated with ISL treatment of white matter injury. The biological process of ISL treatment of white matter injury mainly involves microglial inflammation regulation and myelination. Our findings revealed that ISL reduced early nerve reflex barriers and white matter manifestations in mice, leading to decreased activation of microglia and release of proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, ISL demonstrated the ability to mitigate impairment in oligodendrocyte development and myelination, ultimately improving behavior disorders in adult mice. Mechanistically, we observed that ISL downregulated HDAC3 expression, promoted histone acetylation, enhanced the expression of H3K27ac, and regulated oligodendrocyte pro-differentiation factors.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ISL can have beneficial effects on white matter injury in preterm infants by alleviating inflammation and promoting oligodendrocyte differentiation.

Isoliquiritigenin: a potential drug candidate for the management of erectile dysfunction

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the erectogenic properties of isoliquiritigenin taking sildenafil (SDF) as the standard.

METHODS

The binding affinity of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) with the erectile marker proteins (endothelial nitric oxide synthase [eNOS] and enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 [PDE5]) was investigated using Autodock Vina, which was validated using molecular dynamics simulation. Furthermore, the effect of ISL on the eNOS and PDE5 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression and the sexual behavior of mice was investigated, along with the assessment of the pharmacokinetics of ISL.

KEY FINDINGS

The results revealed that the binding affinity of ISL-eNOS/PDE5 and SDF-eNOS/PDE5 was in the range of -7.5 to -8.6 kcal/mol. The ISL-eNOS/PDE5 complexes remained stable throughout the 100 ns simulation period. Root mean square deviation, Rg, SASA, hydrogen, and hydrophobic interactions were similar between ISL-eNOS/PDE5 and SDF-eNOS/PDE5. Analysis of mRNA expressions in paroxetine (PRX)-induced ED mice showed that the co-administration of PRX with ISL reduced PDE5 and increased eNOS mRNA expression, similar to the co-administered group (PRX+SDF). The sexual behavior study revealed that the results of PRX+ISL were better than those of the PRX+SDF group. Pharmacokinetic evaluation further demonstrated that ISL possesses drug-like properties.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that ISL is equally potent as SDF in terms of binding affinity, specific pharmacological properties, and modulating sexual behavior.

Long-Circulating and Brain-Targeted Liposomes Loaded with Isoliquiritigenin: Formation, Characterization, Pharmacokinetics, and Distribution

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) has excellent neuroprotective effects. However, its limitations, including poor solubility, low bioavailability, and low accumulation in the brain, restrict its clinical promotion. In this study, a novel type of ISL-loaded liposome (ISL-LP) modified with the brain-targeting polypeptide angiopep-2 was prepared to improve these properties. The zeta potential, morphology, particle size, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro release of ISL-LP were evaluated. The pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of ISL and ISL-LP were also investigated. The results demonstrated that ISL-LP had an average particle size of 89.36 ± 5.04 nm, a polymer dispersity index of 0.17 ± 0.03, a zeta potential of -20.27 ± 2.18 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 75.04 ± 3.28%. The in vitro release experiments indicate that ISL-LP is a desirable sustained-release system. After intravenous administration, LPC-LP prolonged the circulation time of ISL in vivo and enhanced its relative brain uptake. In conclusion, ISL-LP could serve as a promising brain-targeting system for the treatment and prevention of central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Significance of Chalcone Scaffolds in Medicinal Chemistry

Chalcone is a simple naturally occurring α,β-unsaturated ketone with biological importance, which can also be easily synthesized in laboratories by reaction between two aromatic scaffolds. In plants, chalcones occur as polyphenolic compounds of different frameworks which are bioactive molecules that have been in traditional medicinal practice for many years. Chalcone-based lead molecules have been developed, possessing varied potentials such as antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-oxidant, antidiabetic, antihyperurecemic, and anti-ulcer effects. Chalcones contribute considerable fragments to give important heterocyclic molecules with therapeutic utilities targeting various diseases. These characteristic features have made chalcone a topic of interest among researchers and have attracted investigations into this widely applicable structure. This review highlights the extensive exploration carried out on the synthesis, biotransformations, chemical reactions, hybridization, and pharmacological potentials of chalcones, and aims to provide an extensive, thorough, and critical review of their importance, with emphasis on their properties, chemistry, and biomedical applications to boost future investigations into this potential scaffold in medicinal chemistry.

Therapeutic Potential of Natural Compounds in Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a common and fatal cerebrovascular disease with high morbidity, mortality and very poor prognosis worldwide. SAH can induce a complex series of pathophysiological processes, and the main factors affecting its prognosis are early brain injury (EBI) and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). The pathophysiological features of EBI mainly include intense neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuronal cell death, mitochondrial dysfunction and brain edema, while DCI is characterized by delayed onset ischemic neurological deficits and cerebral vasospasm (CVS). Despite much exploration in people to improve the prognostic outcome of SAH, effective treatment strategies are still lacking. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that natural compounds of plant origin have unique neuro- and vascular protective effects in EBI and DCI after SAH and long-term neurological deficits, which mainly include inhibition of inflammatory response, reduction of oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, and improvement of blood-brain barrier and cerebral vasospasm. The aim of this paper is to systematically explore the processes of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in SAH, and to summarize natural compounds as potential targets for improving the prognosis of SAH and their related mechanisms of action for future therapies.

From Epimedium to Neuroprotection: Exploring the Potential of Wushanicaritin

Epimedium has been used for functional foods with many beneficial functions to human health. Wushanicaritin is one of the most important chemicals int Epimedium. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of wushanicaritin and potential underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrated that wushanicaritin possessed superior intercellular antioxidant activity compared to icaritin. Wushanicaritin, with an EC50 value of 3.87 μM, showed better neuroprotective effect than quercetin, a promising neuroprotection agent. Wushanicaritin significantly reversed lactate dehydrogenase release, reactive oxygen species generation, cell apoptosis, and mRNA expression related to cell apoptosis and oxidative defense, in glutamate-induced PC-12 cells. Wushanicaritin could also maintain the enzymatic antioxidant defense system and mitochondrial function. The suppression of caspase-3 activation and amelioration of mitochondrial membrane potential loss and nucleus morphology changes were involved in the antiapoptotic effect of wushanicaritin. These findings suggested that wushanicaritin possesses excellent intercellular antioxidant and neuroprotective activities, showing potential promise in functional foods.

The Antioxidant Action of Astragali radix: Its Active Components and Molecular Basis

Astragali radix is a traditional medicinal herb with a long history and wide application. It is frequently used in prescriptions with other medicinal materials to replenish Qi. According to the classics of traditional Chinese medicine, Astragali radix is attributed with properties such as Qi replenishing and surface solidifying, sore healing and muscle generating, and inducing diuresis to reduce edema. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that some extracts and active ingredients in Astragali radix function as antioxidants. The polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids in Astragali radix offer beneficial effects in preventing and controlling diseases caused by oxidative stress. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive research on the effective components and molecular mechanisms through which Astragali radix exerts antioxidant activity. In this paper, we review the active components with antioxidant effects in Astragali radix; summarize the content, bioavailability, and antioxidant mechanisms; and offer a reference for the clinical application of Astragalus and the future development of novel antioxidants.

DendroX: multi-level multi-cluster selection in dendrograms

BACKGROUND

Cluster heatmaps are widely used in biology and other fields to uncover clustering patterns in data matrices. Most cluster heatmap packages provide utility functions to divide the dendrograms at a certain level to obtain clusters, but it is often difficult to locate the appropriate cut in the dendrogram to obtain the clusters seen in the heatmap or computed by a statistical method. Multiple cuts are required if the clusters locate at different levels in the dendrogram.

RESULTS

We developed DendroX, a web app that provides interactive visualization of a dendrogram where users can divide the dendrogram at any level and in any number of clusters and pass the labels of the identified clusters for functional analysis. Helper functions are provided to extract linkage matrices from cluster heatmap objects in R or Python to serve as input to the app. A graphic user interface was also developed to help prepare input files for DendroX from data matrices stored in delimited text files. The app is scalable and has been tested on dendrograms with tens of thousands of leaf nodes. As a case study, we clustered the gene expression signatures of 297 bioactive chemical compounds in the LINCS L1000 dataset and visualized them in DendroX. Seventeen biologically meaningful clusters were identified based on the structure of the dendrogram and the expression patterns in the heatmap. We found that one of the clusters consisting of mostly naturally occurring compounds is not previously reported and has its members sharing broad anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSIONS

DendroX solves the problem of matching visually and computationally determined clusters in a cluster heatmap and helps users navigate among different parts of a dendrogram. The identification of a cluster of naturally occurring compounds with shared bioactivities implicates a convergence of biological effects through divergent mechanisms.

Powerful Synergy of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Aggregation-Induced Emission-Active Photosensitizer in Photodynamic Therapy

Breast cancer (BC) remains a significant global health challenge for women despite advancements in early detection and treatment. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine, has shown potential as an anti-BC therapy, but its low bioavailability and poor water solubility restrict its effectiveness. In this study, we created theranostic nanoparticles consisting of ISL and a near-infrared (NIR) photosensitizer, TBPI, which displays aggregation-induced emission (AIE), with the goal of providing combined chemo- and photodynamic therapies (PDT) for BC. Initially, we designed an asymmetric organic molecule, TBPI, featuring a rotorlike triphenylamine as the donor and 1-methylpyridinium iodide as the acceptor, which led to the production of reactive oxygen species in mitochondria. We then combined TBPI with ISL and encapsulated them in DSPE-PEG-RGD nanoparticles to produce IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles, which showed high affinity for BC, better intersystem crossing (ISC) efficiency, and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between TBPI and ISL. In both 4T1 BC cell line and a 4T1 tumor-bearing BC mouse model, the IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles demonstrated excellent drug delivery, synergistic antitumor effects, enhanced tumor-killing efficacy, and reduced drug dosage and side effects. Furthermore, we exploited the optical properties of TBPI with ISL to reveal the release process and distribution of nanoparticles in cells. This study provides a valuable basis for further exploration of IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles and their anticancer mechanisms, highlighting the potential of theranostic nanoparticles in BC treatment.

Characterization of the Synergistic Antioxidant Activity of Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) and Kaempferol

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and kaempferol exhibit cellular antioxidant activity; however, their interactive effects in terms of antioxidant actions and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, their cytoprotective effects were examined against 2,2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride solution (ABAP)-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. The results showed that the median effective dose (EC₅₀) of the EGCG and kaempferol (6:1.5, c/c) combination was 3.4 ± 0.1 μg/mL, with a combination index (CI_avg) value of 0.54, which represented a significant synergistic effect. Further experiments proved that the combined pretreatment with EGCG and kaempferol exerted protective effects by suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, upregulating cellular antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)) in a dose-dependent manner. The mechanism of synergistic antioxidant effects of EGCG combined with kaempferol may be due to the up-regulation of higher antioxidant enzyme activities that improve the antioxidant capacities and balance the cell oxidative stress. The synergistic antioxidant effect of EGCG and kaempferol can provide a theoretical basis for the development of formulas of functional food ingredients.

Treating Narcolepsy With Traditional Chinese Medicine

Narcolepsy is an uncommon brain condition characterized by falling asleep suddenly without any proper reason or time. In this chapter, the authors include a brief history of narcolepsy, clinical symptoms, pathophysiology, and current treatments for the disease. The review explains narcolepsy according to the theory of TCM. The authors review the curative effect, pharmacological properties, and clinical results of herbs and prescriptions against narcolepsy. The study searched keywords such as ‘narcolepsy,' ‘Traditional Chinese medicine,' ‘sleep disorder,' ‘excessive sleepiness,' and ‘medicinal treatment' using databases such as CNKI, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Based on the analysis of data obtained from 110 articles, the authors have classified the herbs and prescriptions by their curative effects, following the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. Some herbs can be used alone, while others can use in conjunction with other prescriptions.

Determining the chemical profile of Caragana jubata (Pall.) Poir. by UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis and evaluating its anti-ischemic stroke effects

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Caragana jubata, belonging to the Leguminosae family, is a shrubby medicinal plant distributed in high-altitude areas of China. The red heartwood of C. jubata is the original source of 'zuomuxing', a Tibetan medicine that promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis to treat different diseases associated with the blood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To date, research on the chemical constituents of C. jubata remains very limited. The anti-ischemic stroke (anti-IS) effects of this plant have not been studied. The aim of the present study was to analyze the chemical profile of C. jubata, establish various anti-IS models to comprehensively evaluate the anti-IS effects of C. jubata, and explore the mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) was chosen to analyze the chemical profile. A middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion (MCAO/R) model, zebrafish cerebral thrombosis model, and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model in PC12/BV2 cells were used to thoroughly evaluate the anti-IS effects of C. jubata. Additionally, western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the mechanism of action.

RESULTS

Fifty-three compounds were identified from a 95% ethanol extract of C. jubata (ECJ) by UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis. 17 and 7 compounds were identified from C. jubata and the genus Caragana for the first time. ECJ was found to attenuate infarct size and reduce brain edema and neurological scores in MCAO/R rats. ECJ notably reduced the zebrafish cerebral thrombosis incidence in a dose-dependent manner compared with that in the model group. Surprisingly, compared to the positive control drug aspirin, 50 μg/ml ECJ exhibited a better therapeutic effect than aspirin at 30 μg/ml. Additionally, ECJ significantly increased the viability of PC12/BV2 cells injured by OGD/R. Moreover, ECJ inhibited the protein expression of M1 markers (TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-1β) and increased that of M2 markers (Arg-1 and CD206) in OGD/R-injured BV2 cells. ECJ significantly decreased the immunofluorescence intensity of CD16 and increased that of CD206.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis showed that ECJ was rich in flavonoids. The results from pharmacological experiments verified the anti-IS effects of C. jubata in vivo and in vitro for the first time. In addition, ECJ could regulate the polarization of microglia. The present study highlights the medicinal value of C. jubata, thus providing a theoretical basis for the further development of new drugs from C. jubata to treat IS.

Enzymatic acylation improves the stability and bioactivity of lutein: Protective effects of acylated lutein derivatives on L-O2 cells upon H2O2-induced oxidative stress

The instability of lutein has limited its wide application especially in the food industry. In this study, enzymatic acylation of lutein with divinyl adipate was investigated. Three new acylated lutein derivatives, lutein-3-O-adipate (compound 1), lutein-3'-O-adipate (compound 2) and lutein-di-adipate (compound 3), were identified and their stabilities and bioactivates were evaluated. Notably, compounds 1-3 showed better thermal, light stability and stronger scavenging capacity to ABTS radical cation (ABTS⁺) and hydroxyl radical (OH). Most importantly, these acylated lutein derivatives exhibited excellent protective effects on L-O2 cells upon hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress. In particular, the acylated lutein derivative termed compound 3 prevented cellular oxidative stress via restraining the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby increasing related antioxidant enzymes activity and inhibiting apoptosis by mitochondria pathway. Our research provides important insights into the application of acylated lutein derivatives in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products.

Isoliquiritigenin induces neurodevelopmental-toxicity and anxiety-like behavior in zebrafish larvae

Isoliquiritigenin, a flavonoid compound, exhibits a variety of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-tumor effects. In the past few years, the consumption of isoliquiritigenin-containing dietary supplements has increased due to their health benefits. Although the neuroprotective effects of isoliquiritigenin have been well-investigated, these studies were performed in cells and adult animals. The potential effects of isoliquiritigenin on the development, especially the neurodevelopment, of certain populations, such as zebrafish larvae, have not been investigated. In this study, zebrafish larvae were employed as a model to investigate the effects of isoliquiritigenin on development and neurodevelopment. Zebrafish embryos treated with high concentrations of isoliquiritigenin (10 and 15 μM) exhibited high rates of mortality, hatching, and malformation, indicating that isoliquiritigenin can affect zebrafish development. In addition, isoliquiritigenin impeded the development of central nervous system regions and the length of dopaminergic neurons located in midbrains and thalami of transgenic zebrafish larvae. The locomotor ability of zebrafish larvae exposed to high concentrations of isoliquiritigenin was negatively affected. The total distance and the average velocity significantly decreased, and anxiety-related behaviors were observed under light-dark challenge. Furthermore, the levels of gap43, tuba1b, mbp, hcrt, vmat2, and pomc, which mediate neurodevelopment, neurotoxicity, and anxiety were significantly decreased in zebrafish larvae exposed to isoliquiritigenin. These results indicate that isoliquiritigenin can disrupt the development of dopaminergic neurons and the function of the central nervous system in zebrafish, causing anxiety-like symptoms.

Isoliquiritigenin ameliorates paroxetine-induced sexual dysfunction in male albino mice

Paroxetine (PRX), a widely prescribed antidepressant, often leads to sexual dysfunction. The available management options such as sildenafil (SDF), are associated with side effects. The present study investigates the fertility-boosting properties of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) on PRX-induced sexual dysfunction in male mice. We allocated fertile mice into six different groups (n = 5): group I- DMSO; group II- PRX; group III- co-administered PRX and SDF; group IV- ISL alone; group V- co-administered PRX and ISL (low dose); and, group VI- co-administered PRX and ISL (high dose). 14 days post treatment, animals were sacrificed, and the weights of the testis and epididymis were evaluated. Furthermore, sperm parameters, testicular and epididymal antioxidant levels, serum testosterone and nitric oxide (NO) levels, histoarchitecture of testis and epididymis, and markers of cellular toxicity were assessed. Results revealed that the PRX administration reduced organ weights, sperm count, intact acrosome, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), serum testosterone, and NO levels, and increased sperm abnormalities and MDA levels (a biomarker for lipid peroxidation). Additionally, we observed damage in the testis and epididymis. The toxicity biomarker study revealed a higher concentration of SGOT, SGPT, and ALP enzymes in the PRX-treated group. However, the co-administration of PRX with ISL ameliorated the adverse effect of PRX on the parameters mentioned above. The PRX+ISL (high) results were almost at par with the PRX+SDF group. The group that received ISL alone showed overall improvements. In conclusion, our comprehensive panel of tests indicates that ISL could be helpful in managing sexual dysfunction.

Structure characterization of soybean peptides and their protective activity against intestinal inflammation

Soybean peptides serve as functional foods with impressive health benefits. The structure characteristics of peptides are highly related to the health benefits. The structure-activity relationship and mechanism underlined are important scientific questions in this field. To answer these questions, soybean peptides were produced by combinatory enzymatic hydrolysis in this work. Fifty-two peptide sequences were identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The anti-inflammatory activities of these peptides were investigated by using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation cell model. Soybean peptides could significantly promote cell proliferation. Additionally, soybean peptides could alleviate LPS-induced inflammation by reducing the production and expression of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Moreover, soybean peptides could promote the mRNA expression of proteins related to inflammation inhibition (IL-10) and tight junction modulation. The structure-activity relationship was addressed. The results documented the potential of soybean peptides as functional foods.

The licorice flavonoid isoliquiritigenin attenuates Mycobacterium tuberculosis-induced inflammation through Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Glycyrrhiza is a small perennial herb that has been traditionally used to treat many diseases across the world. Licorice (Gancao in Chinese) is the dried root and rhizome of G. glabra, G. uralensis or G. inflata. Licorice plays an important role in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and is the most frequently used in Chinese herbal formulas. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a flavonoid extracted from licorice, and has been evaluated for its various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-oxidant activities. Excessive and persistent inflammation in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection is not conducive to the elimination of Mtb, but contributes to serious pulmonary dysfunction.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of ISL in the Mtb infection.

METHODS

In vitro models of Mtb-infected macrophages were established. Murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells and primary peritoneal macrophages were used in this study. Cell viability was determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The effects of ISL on the secretion levels of interleukin -1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α), and interleukin -6 (IL-6) were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) were measured by the real time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. Western blot was used to assess the effects of ISL on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Immunofluorescence assays was used to detected the translocation of phosphorylation of p65 subunit of NF-κB.

RESULTS

It was revealed that ISL inhibited the secretion of IL-1β and the activation of pore-forming protein (gasdermin D, GSDMD) by suppressing the activation of NLPR3 inflammasome induced by Mtb infection. ISL was also shown to have promising inhibitory effects on inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS and COX2. Regarding the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ISL, it was found that ISL exerted its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

ISL reduced Mtb-induced inflammation through the Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. ISL might be used as a potential adjuvant drug to treat tuberculosis by adjusting host immune responses.

Therapeutic Intervention in Cancer by Isoliquiritigenin from Licorice: A Natural Antioxidant and Redox Regulator

Oxidative stress could lead to a variety of body dysfunctions, including neurodegeneration and cancer, which are closely associated with intracellular signal transducers such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). It has been suggested that ROS is the upstream regulator of autophagy, and that it provides a negative feedback regulation to remove oxidative damage. Defects in the ROS-autophagic redox homeostasis could lead to the increased production of ROS and the accumulation of damaged organelles that in turn promote metabolic reprogramming and induce tumorigenesis. One significant characteristic of pancreatic cancer is the reprogramming of cellular energy metabolism, which facilitates the rapid growth, invasiveness, and the survival of cancer cells. Thus, the rectification of metabolic dysfunction is essential in therapeutic cancer targeting. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a chalcone obtained from the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, which is a powdered root licorice that has been consumed for centuries in different regions of the world. ISL is known to be a natural antioxidant that possesses diversified functions, including redox regulation in cells. This review contains discussions on the herbal source, biological properties, and anticancer potential of ISL. This is the first time that the anticancer activities of ISL in pancreatic cancer has been elucidated, with a coverage of the involvement of antioxidation, metabolic redox regulation, and autophagy in pancreatic cancer development. Furthermore, some remarks on related compounds of the isoflavonoid biosynthetic pathway of ISL will also be discussed.

Resveratrol and neuroprotection: an insight into prospective therapeutic approaches against Alzheimer's disease from bench to bedside

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and cognitive impairment; yet, there is currently no treatment. A buildup of Aβ, tau protein phosphorylation, oxidative stress, and inflammation in AD is pathogenic. The accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides in these neurocognitive areas is a significant characteristic of the disease. Therefore, inhibiting Aβ peptide aggregation has been proposed as the critical therapeutic approach for AD treatment. Resveratrol has been demonstrated in multiple studies to have a neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant characteristic and the ability to minimize Aβ peptides aggregation and toxicity in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's patients, stimulating neurogenesis and inhibiting hippocampal degeneration. Furthermore, resveratrol's antioxidant effect promotes neuronal development by activating the silent information regulator-1 (SIRT1), which can protect against the detrimental effects of oxidative stress. Resveratrol-induced SIRT1 activation is becoming more crucial in developing novel therapeutic options for AD and other diseases that have neurodegenerative characteristics. This review highlighted a better knowledge of resveratrol's mechanism of action and its promising therapeutic efficacy in treating AD. We also highlighted the therapeutic potential of resveratrol as an AD therapeutic agent, which is effective against neurodegenerative disorders.

Isoliquiritigenin alleviates diabetic symptoms via activating AMPK and inhibiting mTORC1 signaling in diet-induced diabetic mice

PURPOSE

To determine the effects of isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a chalcone compound isolated from licorice, on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

8-week-old C7BL/6 mice were used to establish the T2DM animal model by feeding with high-fat-high-glucose diet (HFD) combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. The animals were treated with ISL for 3 weeks. Blood glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance, and insulin tolerance were examined, serum parameters were determined, histologic sections were prepared, activities of enzymes related to glucolipid metabolism were analyzed, and the mitochondrial function was investigated to evaluate effects of ISL on metabolism. The underlying mechanisms of ISL alleviating insulin resistance and restoring metabolic homeostasis were analyzed in HepG2 and INS-1 cells.

RESULTS

ISL exhibits a potent activity in relieving hyperglycemia of type 2 diabetic mice. It alleviates insulin resistance and restores metabolic homeostasis without obvious adversary effects in HFD-induced diabetic mice. The metabolic benefits of ISL treatment include promoting hepatic glycogenesis, inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis, reducing hepatic steatosis, and sensitizing insulin signaling. Mechanistically, ISL activates adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibits mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). It also suppresses mitochondrial function and reduces ATP production.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate that ISL is able to significantly reduce blood glucose level and alleviate insulin resistance without obvious side effects in diabetic mice, hence uncovering a great potential of ISL as a novel drug candidate in prevention and treatment of T2DM.

Activation of PGC-1α via isoliquiritigenin-induced downregulation of miR-138-5p alleviates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic disease, has received wide attention worldwide. However, there is no approved effective drug for NAFLD treatment. In the study, H&E and Oil Red O staining were employed to detect liver histopathological changes and the accumulation of lipid droplets. Quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, bioinformatics, luciferase assay, immunofluorescence staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and siRNA were used to further elucidate the mechanism of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) against NAFLD. The results showed that ISL significantly reduced the liver-to-body weight ratios and biochemical index. And the staining results showed that ISL remarkedly ameliorated liver histopathological changes of NAFLD. Furthermore, ISL significantly increased the levels of PPARα, CPT1α, and ACADS, which were involved in lipid metabolism, and inhibited the ROS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 expression by activating PGC-1α. Bioinformatics and luciferase assay analysis confirmed that miR-138-5p might bind to PGC-1α mRNA in NAFLD. Importantly, the expression of miR-138-5p was increased in the NAFLD, which was significantly decreased by ISL. In addition, the miR-138-5p inhibitor also promoted lipid metabolism and inhibited inflammatory response in NAFLD via PGC-1α activation. The above results demonstrate that ISL alleviates NAFLD through modulating miR-138-5p/PGC-1α-mediated lipid metabolism and inflammatory reaction in vivo and in vitro.

Potential application value of hydroxychalcones based on isoliquiritigenin in agricultural plant diseases

To improve the fungicidal activity of lead compound isoliquiritigenin, 33 hydroxychalcones were designed and prepared. Their in vitro antifungal activity against four pathogenic fungi (Rhizoctonia solani, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium graminearum,...

Integrated bioinformatic analysis reveals immune molecular markers and potential drugs for diabetic cardiomyopathy

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a pathophysiological condition induced by diabetes mellitus that often causes heart failure (HF). However, their mechanistic relationships remain unclear. This study aimed to identify immune gene signatures and molecular mechanisms of DCM. Microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database from patients with DCM were subjected to weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identify co-expression modules. Core expression modules were intersected with the immune gene database. We analyzed and mapped protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks using the STRING database and MCODE and filtering out 17 hub genes using cytoHubba software. Finally, potential transcriptional regulatory factors and therapeutic drugs were identified and molecular docking between gene targets and small molecules was performed. We identified five potential immune biomarkers: proteosome subunit beta type-8 (PSMB8), nuclear factor kappa B1 (NFKB1), albumin (ALB), endothelin 1 (EDN1), and estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1). Their expression levels in animal models were consistent with the changes observed in the datasets. EDN1 showed significant differences in expression in both the dataset and the validation model by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting(WB). Subsequently, we confirmed that the potential transcription factors upstream of EDN1 were PRDM5 and KLF4, as its expression was positively correlated with the expression of the two transcription factors. To repurpose known therapeutic drugs, a connectivity map (CMap) database was retrieved, and nine candidate compounds were identified. Finally, molecular docking simulations of the proteins encoded by the five genes with small-molecule drugs were performed. Our data suggest that EDN1 may play a key role in the development of DCM and is a potential DCM biomarker.

Isoliquiritigenin, a potent human monoamine oxidase inhibitor, modulates dopamine D1, D3, and vasopressin V1A receptors

Isoliquiritigenin (= 4,2′,4′-Trihydroxychalcone) (ILG) is a major constituent of the Glycyrrhizae Rhizoma that has significant neuroprotective functions. In the present study, we re-examined the potential of ILG to inhibit human monoamine oxidase (hMAO) in vitro and established its mechanism of inhibition through a kinetics study and molecular docking examination. ILG showed competitive inhibition of hMAO-A and mixed inhibition of hMAO-B with IC₅₀ values of 0.68 and 0.33 µM, respectively, which varied slightly from the reported IC₅₀ values. Since ILG has been reported to reduce dopaminergic neurodegeneration and psychostimulant-induced toxicity (both of which are related to dopamine and vasopressin receptors), we investigated the binding affinity and modulatory functions of ILG on dopamine and vasopressin receptors. ILG was explored as an antagonist of the D₁ receptor and an agonist of the D₃ and V_1A receptors with good potency. An in silico docking investigation revealed that ILG can interact with active site residues at target receptors with low binding energies. These activities of ILG on hMAO and brain receptors suggest the potential role of the compound to ameliorate dopaminergic deficits, depression, anxiety, and associated symptoms in Parkinson’s disease and other neuronal disorders.

Isoliquiritigenin Alleviates Semen Strychni-Induced Neurotoxicity by Restoring the Metabolic Pathway of Neurotransmitters in Rats

Acute neurotoxicity of Semen Strychni can result in sudden death in epilepsy. The detoxification method and mechanism of Semen Strychni acute poisoning have not been clarified. This experiment focused on the mechanism of Semen Strychni neurotoxicity and the alleviation effects of isoliquiritigenin. The rats were intraperitoneally injected with Semen Strychni extract (125 mg/kg), followed by oral administration of isoliquiritigenin (50 mg/kg) for 7 days. FJ-B staining was used to evaluate the degree of injury on hippocampus neurons. The concentration of monoamines, amino acids, and choline neurotransmitters, the Dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) metabolic pathway in the hippocampus, cerebellum, striatum, prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, serum, and plasma were detected by LC-MS/MS. The expression of neurotransmitter metabolic enzymes [catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) and monoamine oxidase (MAO)] and neurotransmitter receptors [glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptors (NMDARs) and gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABRs)] were, respectively determined using ELISA and qRT-PCR. The results indicated that Semen Strychni induced neuronal degeneration in the hippocampal CA1 region. Meanwhile, Semen Strychni inhibited the mRNA expression of NMDAR1, NMDAR2A, NMDAR2B, GABRa1, GABRb2 and reduced the level of MAO, which disrupted the DA and 5-HT metabolic pathway. However, isoliquiritigenin reversed these effects. In summary, isoliquiritigenin showed alleviation effects on Semen Strychni-induced neurotoxicity, which could be attributed to restoring neurotransmitters metabolic pathway, most likely through the activation of NMDA receptors.

Natural Product Isoliquiritigenin Activates GABAB Receptors to Decrease Voltage-Gate Ca2+ Channels and Glutamate Release in Rat Cerebrocortical Nerve Terminals

Reduction in glutamate release is a key mechanism for neuroprotection and we investigated the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL), an active ingredient of Glycyrrhiza with neuroprotective activities, on glutamate release in rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals (synaptosomes). ISL produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of glutamate release and reduced the intraterminal [Ca²⁺] increase. The inhibition of glutamate release by ISL was prevented after removing extracellular Ca²⁺ or blocking P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels. This inhibition was mediated through the γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA_B) receptors because ISL was unable to inhibit glutamate release in the presence of baclofen (an GABA_B agonist) or CGP3548 (an GABA_B antagonist) and docking data revealed that ISL interacted with GABA_B receptors. Furthermore, the ISL inhibition of glutamate release was abolished through the inhibition of G_i/o-mediated responses or G_βγ subunits, but not by 8-bromoadenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate or adenylate cyclase inhibition. The ISL inhibition of glutamate release was also abolished through the inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC), and ISL decreased the phosphorylation of PKC. Thus, we inferred that ISL, through GABA_B receptor activation and G_βγ-coupled inhibition of P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels, suppressed the PKC phosphorylation to cause a decrease in evoked glutamate release at rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals.

Identification of prenylated phenolics in mulberry leaf and their neuroprotective activity

BACKGROUND

Neurodegenerative diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent over the world. Therefore, drug development in this field is urgently required. Neuron impairment leads to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, while amelioration of oxidative stress can inhibit the impairment. As a traditional Chinese medicine, mulberry leaf exhibits various pharmacological properties, including neuroprotective activity. But the major components responsible for the neuroprotective activity of mulberry leaf remained unknown. Phytochemicals were potent candidates of neuroprotective drug. Prenylated phenolics are the leading phytochemicals present in mulberry leaf.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective activities and mechanisms of prenylated phenolics.

METHODS

The chemical structure of isolated compounds were elucidated by MS and NMR. UPLC-MS/MS was used to determine the contents of prenylated phenolics in fresh mulberry leaf. Neurotoxicity was induced by erastin in HT22 cells. CCK-8 assay was performed to assess cell viability. ROS production, GSH level and iron release were monitored by using DCFH-DA, monobromobimane, and FeRhoNox™-1, respectively. qRT-PCR and Western blotting assays were performed to assess gene and protein expression, respectively.

RESULTS

Four prenylated phenolics, including isobavachalcone, morachalcone B, moracin N and morachalcone A were isolated and identified from mulberry leaf. Their levels in fresh mulberry leaf were in a decreasing order, moracin N > morachalcone A > morachalcone B > isobavachalcone. Moreover, moracin N showed a good neuroprotective activity with an EC₅₀ < 0.50 µM. The neuroprotective mechanisms of moracin N included inhibition of glutathione depletion, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) inactivation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and iron accumulation, as well as improvement of intracellular antioxidant enzyme activities. Moracin N augmented the transcriptional levels of genes involved in antioxidant defense and glutathione biosynthesis in the early state of ferroptosis induction, and downregulated expression of genes related to iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation.

CONCLUSION

The results confirmed that moracin N was a good ferroptosis inhibitor, which exerted neuroprotective activity through preventing from oxidative stress.

Discovery of isoliquiritigenin analogues that reverse acute hepatitis by inhibiting macrophage polarization

Screening a natural product library of 850 compounds yield isoliquiritigenin as an effective anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory NO induced by Pam₃CSK₄, while its activity accompanied by toxicity. Further studies obtained the optimized isoliquiritigenin derivative SMU-B₁₄, which can inhibit Pam₃CSK₄ triggered toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) signaling with low toxicity and high potency. Preliminary mechanism studies indicated that SMU-B₁₄ worked through TLR2/MyD88, phosphorylation of IKKα/β, leading to the reduce degradation of NF-κB related IKBα and p65 complex, then inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β both in human and murine cell lines. Subsequent polarization experiments showed SMU-B₁₄ significant reversed the polarization of M1 phenotype primary macrophage activated by Pam₃CSK₄in vitro, and reduced the infiltration of neutrophil and polarization of M1-type macrophage, decreased serum alanine transaminase (ALT), as a result protected liver from being injured in vivo. In summary, we obtained an optimized lead compound SMU-B₁₄ and found it functionally blocked TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway to down-regulate the production of inflammatory cytokines resulted significant liver protection property.

ISL Induces Apoptosis and Autophagy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Downregulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway in vivo and in vitro

Aims

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a flavonoid from Glycyrrhiza glabra, has previously been reported to have anti-tumor effects in vivo and in vitro. However, the mechanisms whereby ISL exerts its anticancer effects remain poorly understood in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Purpose

In the present study, we investigated the anticancer efficacy and associated mechanisms of ISL in HCC MHCC97-H and SMMC7721 cells.

Results

We found that ISL inhibited cell viability and proliferation and induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner in liver cancer lines. Furthermore, ISL could activate autophagy in HCC cells, and the autophagy inhibitor HCQ enhances ISL-induced apoptosis in HCC cells. Additionally, ISL induced apoptosis and autophagy through inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Most importantly, in a xenograft tumor model in nude mice, data showed that the administration of ISL decreased tumor growth and concurrently promoted the expression of LC3-II and cleaved-caspase-3. Interestingly, we found that ISL inhibits mTOR by docking onto the ATP-binding pocket of mTOR (ie, it competes with ATP). We thus suggest that mTOR is a potential target for ISL inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma development, which could be of interest for future investigations.

Conclusion

Taken together, the results reveal that ISL effectively inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in HCC through autophagy induction in vivo and in vitro, probably via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. ISL may be a potential therapeutic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Macrocycles and Supramolecules as Antioxidants: Excellent Scaffolds for Development of Potential Therapeutic Agents

Oxidative stress due to the high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage biomolecules (lipids, proteins, DNA) results in acute inflammation. However, without proper intervention, acute inflammation progresses to chronic inflammation and then to several chronic diseases, including cancer, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis, and more. There has been extensive research on the antioxidants of natural origin. However, there are myriad possibilities for the development of synthetic antioxidants for pharmacological applications. There is an increasing interest in the identification of novel synthetic antioxidants for the modulation of biochemical processes related to ROS. In this regard, derivatives of supramolecules, such as calix[n]arene, resorcinarene, calixtyrosol, calixpyrrole, cucurbit[n]uril, porphyrin etc. are gaining attention for their abilities to scavenge the free radicals. Supramolecular chemistry offers excellent scaffolds for the development of novel antioxidants that can be used to modulate free radical reactions and to improve the disorders related to oxidative stress. This review focuses on the interdisciplinary approach for the design and development of novel synthetic antioxidants based on supramolecular scaffolds, with potentially protective effects against oxidative stress.

Protective effect of isoliquiritigenin on experimental diabetic nephropathy in rats: Impact on Sirt-1/NFκB balance and NLRP3 expression

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) drastically increases worldwide. Persistent hyperglycemia affects body microvasculature causing injuries to kidney producing diabetic nephropathy (DNE). Manifestation of these microvascular complications is associated with disturbed redox homeostasis. The current study evaluated the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISLQ), a bioactive chalcone found in licorice which is known for its antioxidant effect, on diabetes-induced renal injury. DM was prompted in male rats by streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). ISLQ was administrated by oral gavage for 8 weeks at a dose (20 mg/kg/day). Features of renal injury were observed in kidneys of diabetic rats including, albuminuria and deteriorated renal function. Renal dysfunction was associated with reduced sirtuin-1 (Sirt-1) expression, increased renal oxidative stress, nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing protein-3 (NLRP3), nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) and inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Moreover, there was significant downregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10), glomerular and tubular injury and collagen accumulation. ISLQ administration preserved renal function and architecture, restored Sirt1 and renal oxidant-antioxidant balance, dampened inflammation and attenuated collagen accumulation. It can be inferred that ISLQ possess a protective effect and could have a potential as a food supplement to halt development and progression of DNE.