Alleviating exercise-induced muscular stress using neat and processed bee pollen: oxidative markers, mitochondrial enzymes, and myostatin expression in rats

Unlocking Naringin's Potential: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Its Nephroprotective Effects in Pre-Clinical Models

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate and summarize the therapeutic effects of naringin on various kidney diseases, based on preclinical research. A comprehensive literature search was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar, concentrating on the impact of naringin in different experimental animal models of kidney disease. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 27 studies were chosen for analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that naringin treatment significantly improved body weight gain and markers of kidney function, as evidenced by decreased serum urea, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Additionally, naringin treatment normalized antioxidant parameters, restored enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, and alleviated oxidative stress markers, comprising myeloperoxidase and reactive oxygen species. Besides, naringin also alleviated inflammation as indicated by reduced levels of markers such as NF-κB, IL-6, KIM-1, COX-2, and TNF-α. Furthermore, it regulated apoptosis by decreasing the Bax, caspase-3, and p53 levels while increasing Bcl-2. In summary, the meta-analysis demonstrated that naringin significantly mitigates nephrotoxicity induced by oxidative stress, chemotherapy, drugs, and chemicals. This nephroprotective effect is mediated through a combination of several mechanisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways. These cellular and molecular improvements were associated with enhanced kidney structure, function, and overall physiology following naringin treatment. Overall, this systematic review and meta-analysis provide strong scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of naringin in managing kidney diseases.

All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Assessment of Bee Pollen Supplementation Effects on Gastric Mucosa

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of bee pollen supplementation on the levels of enzymes important for gastric mucosal homeostasis, namely cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and a biomarker-asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)-in the gastric mucosa of Wistar rats. The experimental phase divided the rats into four groups: two control groups, sedentary and active, both not supplemented, and two experimental groups, sedentary and active, supplemented with bee pollen. The results indicated that bee pollen supplementation reduced the levels of COX-1 and elevated iNOS levels, while showing no significant impact on COX-2 levels. These findings do not conclusively support the gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of bee pollen on gastric mucosa. However, the supplementation could have resulted in reduced ADMA levels in the physically active supplemented group. Our study does not unequivocally demonstrate the positive effects of bee pollen supplementation on the gastric mucosa, which may be attributed to the specific metabolism and bioavailability of substances within unprocessed, dried bee pollen. Further research should explore the topic of potential therapeutic applications of bee pollen in gastrointestinal health and its interactions with ADMA signaling pathways.

Designing New Sport Supplements Based on Aronia melanocarpa and Bee Pollen to Enhance Antioxidant Capacity and Nutritional Value

With a high number of athletes using sport supplements targeting different results, the need for complex, natural and effective formulations represents an actual reality, while nutrition dosing regimens aiming to sustain the health and performance of athletes are always challenging. In this context, the main goal of this study was to elaborate a novel and complex nutraceutical supplement based on multiple bioactive compounds extracted from Aronia melanocarpa and bee pollen, aiming to support physiological adaptations and to minimize the stress generated by intense physical activity in the case of professional or amateur athletes. Our proposed formulations are based on different combinations of Aronia and bee pollen (A1:P1, A1:P2 and A2:P1), offering personalized supplements designed to fulfill the individual requirements of different categories of athletes. The approximate composition, fatty acid profile, identification and quantification of individual polyphenols, along with the antioxidant capacity of raw biological materials and different formulations, was performed using spectrophotometric methods, GS-MS and HPLC-DAD-MS-ESI+. In terms of antioxidant capacity, our formulations based on different ratios of bee pollen and Aronia were able to act as complex and powerful antioxidant products, highlighted by the synergic or additional effect of the combinations. Overall, the most powerful synergism was obtained for the A1:P2 formulation.

Fisetin Ameliorates Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia in Experimental Model Parkinson's Disease: Role of Mitochondrial Activities and Monoamines Turnover

Background: Levodopa (or l-DOPA) is the current standard of care for the management of Parkinson's disease (PD), but its chronic administration has been associated with the development of LID (l-DOPA-induced dyskinesia). Fisetin is a dietary flavonoid known for its neuroprotective efficacy. Aim: To determine the neuroprotective potential of fisetin in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned LID animals. Methods: 6-OHDA (12 µg and L-ascorbic acid [10 µL]) was injected in a substantial nigra of Sprague-Dawley rat to develop PD followed by l-DOPA (20 mg/kg and benserazide HCl [5 mg/kg], 42 days) to induce LID. Rats were concomitantly administered with vehicle or amantadine (40 mg/kg), or fisetin (5, 10, and 25 mg/kg, p.o.) for 42 days with l-DOPA. Results: Chronic l-DOPA administration resulted in progressive abnormal involuntary movements (AIMs viz. axial, forelimb, and orolingual), akinesia (forelimb adjusting steps, FAS), muscular rigidity (catalepsy bar test), muscular coordination, and neurological impairments. Fisetin at doses of 10 and 25 mg/kg effectively reduced ( P < .05) these LID-induced AIMs and behavioral changes. Furthermore, fisetin treatment markedly ( P < .05) attenuated LID-induced diminished striatal mitochondrial complex activities, striatal monoamines (serotonin [5-HT] and dopamine [DA]), elevated monoamines turnover (DA: DOPAC and 5-HT: 5-HIAA). In addition, fisetin treatment effectively ( P < .05) reversed the upregulated expressions of striatal cFOS, FosB, Homer, Nurr-77, Parkin, and Pdyn. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that fisetin offered neuroprotection via amelioration of striatum mitochondrial dysfunction and monoamine (5-HT and DA) turnover to halt further development of abnormal involuntary movement and dyskinesia.

Honeybee and Plant Products as Natural Antimicrobials in Enhancement of Poultry Health and Production

The quality and safety attributes of poultry products have attracted increasing widespread attention and interest from scholarly groups and the general population. As natural and safe alternatives to synthetic and artificial chemical drugs (e.g., antibiotics), botanical products are recently being used in poultry farms more than 60% of the time for producing organic products. Medicinal plants, and honeybee products, are natural substances, and they were added to poultry diets in a small amount (between 1% and 3%) as a source of nutrition and to provide health benefits for poultry. In addition, they have several biological functions in the poultry body and may help to enhance their welfare. These supplements can increase the bodyweight of broilers and the egg production of laying hens by approximately 7% and 10% and enhance meat and egg quality by more than 25%. Moreover, they can improve rooster semen quality by an average of 20%. Previous research on the main biological activities performed by biotics has shown that most research only concentrated on the notion of using botanical products as growth promoters, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agents. In the current review, the critical effects and functions of bee products and botanicals are explored as natural and safe alternative feed additives in poultry production, such as antioxidants, sexual-stimulants, immuno-stimulants, and for producing healthy products.

d-Pinitol protects against endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury via modulation of AFT4-CHOP/GRP78 and caspase-3 signaling pathways

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major unavoidable clinical problem often accompanying various liver surgery and transplantation. d-Pinitol, a cyclic polyol, exhibits hepatoprotective efficacy. The objective of this study is to determine the possible mechanism of action of pinitol against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress regulation-mediated hepatic IRI and compare its effects with thymoquinone (TQ) in experimental rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were pre-treated orally with either vehicle (DMSO) or d-Pinitol (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) or TQ (30 mg/kg) for 21 days and subjected to 60 min of partial hepatic ischemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Pre-treatment with pinitol (10 and 20 mg/kg) effectively (P < 0.05) protected against IRI-induced hepatic damage reflected by attenuation of elevated oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, western blot and ELISA analyses suggested that pinitol significantly (P < 0.05) down-regulated expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress apoptotic markers, namely glucose-regulated protein (GRP)-78, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), activating transcription factor (AFT)-4 and -6α, X-box binding protein-1, and caspase-3, 9, and 12. Additionally, pinitol pre-treatment effectively (P < 0.05) improved mitochondrial function and phosphorylation of Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 and p38. Pinitol markedly (P < 0.05) protected hepatic apoptosis determined by flow cytometry. Further, pinitol provided effective (P < 0.05) protection against hepatic histological and ultrastructural aberrations induced by IRI. TQ showed more pronounced protective effect against attenuation of IRI-induced hepatic injury as compared to d-Pinitol. Pinitol offered protection against endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38, thereby inhibiting AFT4-CHOP/GRP78 signaling response and caspase-3 induced hepatocellular apoptosis during hepatic ischemia-reperfusion insults. Thus, Pinitol can be considered as a viable option for the management of hepatic IRI.

Elucidation of the mechanism of action of pinitol against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in an animal model of aortic stenosis

The long-term imposition of pressure overload on the cardiac tissue causes left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and cardiac fibrosis. Pinitol has been reported to possess antioxidant potential. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of pinitol against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in the aortic stenosis (AS) rat model. Cardiac hypertrophy was produced in Sprague-Dawley rats by abdominal aortic constriction and treated with lisinopril (15 mg/kg) or pinitol (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg). Pressure overload-induced alterations in hemodynamic and left ventricular function tests, cardiac SOD, GSH, MDA, NO, Na-K-ATPase, and mitochondrial complex enzyme levels were significantly attenuated by pinitol. The upregulated mRNA expressions of cardiac ANP, BNP, cTn-I, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, Bax, Caspase-3, collagen-I, and cardiac apoptosis were markedly downregulated by pinitol. In conclusion, pinitol ameliorated pressure overload-induced LVH and fibrosis via its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifibrotic, and antiapoptotic potential in experimental AS.

Apitherapy for Age-Related Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction (Sarcopenia): A Review on the Effects of Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Bee Pollen

The global pandemic of sarcopenia, skeletal muscle loss and weakness, which prevails in up to 50% of older adults is increasing worldwide due to the expansion of aging populations. It is now striking young and midlife adults as well because of sedentary lifestyle and increased intake of unhealthy food (e.g., western diet). The lockdown measures and economic turndown associated with the current outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are likely to increase the prevalence of sarcopenia by promoting sedentarism and unhealthy patterns of eating. Sarcopenia has multiple detrimental effects including falls, hospitalization, disability, and institutionalization. Although a few pharmacological agents (e.g., bimagrumab, sarconeos, and exercise mimetics) are being explored in different stages of trials, not a single drug has been approved for sarcopenia treatment. Hence, research has focused on testing the effect of nutraceuticals, such as bee products, as safe treatments to prevent and/or treat sarcopenia. Royal jelly, propolis, and bee pollen are common bee products that are rich in highly potent antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenols, and amino acids. These products, in order, stimulate larval development into queen bees, promote defenses of the bee hive against microbial and environmental threats, and increase royal jelly production by nurse bees. Thanks to their versatile pharmacological activities (e.g., anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, etc.), these products have been used to treat multiple chronic conditions that predispose to muscle wasting such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorder, and cancer, to name a few. They were also used in some evolving studies to treat sarcopenia in laboratory animals and, to a limited degree, in humans. However, a collective understanding of the effect and mechanism of action of these products in skeletal muscle is not well-developed. Therefore, this review examines the literature for possible effects of royal jelly, bee pollen, and propolis on skeletal muscle in aged experimental models, muscle cell cultures, and humans. Collectively, data from reviewed studies denote varying levels of positive effects of bee products on muscle mass, strength, and function. The likely underlying mechanisms include amelioration of inflammation and oxidative damages, promotion of metabolic regulation, enhancement of satellite stem cell responsiveness, improvement of muscular blood supply, inhibition of catabolic genes, and promotion of peripheral neuronal regeneration. This review offers suggestions for other mechanisms to be explored and provides guidance for future trials investigating the effects of bee products among people with sarcopenia.

Streptozotocin-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats: ameliorative effect of PIPERINE via Bcl2, Bax/Bcl2, and caspase-3 pathways

The objective of present investigation was to appraise the effects of piperine on STZ-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats. Diabetes was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats with intraperitoneal STZ injection, and the rats were assigned to seven groups. Electrocardiograph, hemodynamic, various biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters were examined. Treatment with piperine significantly (p < 0.05) restored altered myocardial functions, inhibited cardiac marker, and restored electrocardiogram and hemodynamic alterations. The elevated level of cardiac oxido-nitrosative stress and decreased cardiac Na-K-ATPase concentration, after STZ administration, were significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated by piperine treatment. Piperine also considerably (p < 0.05) increased myocardial mitochondrial enzyme activity. STZ-induced alteration in heart ANP, BNP, cTn-I, Bcl2, Bax/Bcl2, and caspase3 mRNA expression was significantly (p < 0.05) restored by piperine treatment. Piperine administration reduced histopathological aberrations induced by STZ. In conclusion, the present investigation suggests that piperine ameliorates STZ-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy via modulation of caspase-3, Bcl2, Bax/Bcl2 pathways. Abbreviations: ACE: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme; ANOVA: Analysis of Variance; ANP: Atrial Natriuretic Peptide; APAF: Apoptotic Protease-Activating Factor; ARB: Angiotensin Receptor Blockers; ATP: Adenosine Triphosphate; Bax: Bcl-2-associated X protein; Bcl2: B-cell lymphoma 2; BPM: Beats Per Minute; BNP: brain natriuretic peptide; CAD: Caspase-3-Activated DNase; cDNA: Complementary DNA; CK-MB: Creatine Kinase-MB; CPCSEA: Committee for the Purpose of Control And Supervision of Experiments on Animals; cTn-I: cardiac troponin I; DBP: Diastolic Blood Pressure; DCM: Diabetic Cardiomyopathy; DNA: Deoxyribonucleic Acid; DPX: DisterenePhthalate Xylene; ECG: Electrocardiogram; ETC: Electron Transport Chain; GOD-POD: Glucose Oxidase Peroxidase; GSH: Glutathione; IAEC: Institutional Animal Ethics Committee; IL-6: Interleukin-6; IL-1b: Interleukin-1b; LDH: Lactate Dehydrogenase; LV: Left Ventricle; LVEDP: left ventricular end-diastolic Pressure; MABP: Mean Arterial Blood Pressure; MDA: Malondialdehyde; mRNA: Messenger Ribonucleic Acid; MTT: 3- (4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-DiphenyltetrazoliumBromide; NADH: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate; NADPH: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Hydrogen; NO: nitric oxide; NP: Natriuretic Peptides; OXPHOS: Oxidative Phosphorylation; p.o.: per os; PCR: Polymerase Chain Reaction; RT-PCR: Reverse Transcriptionpolymerase Chain Reaction; PPAR: Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma; RAS: Renin-Angiotensin System; RNA: Ribonucleic Acid; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SBP: Systolic Blood Pressure; SDH: Succinate Dehydrogenase; SEM: Standard Error Means; SOD: superoxide dismutase: STZ: Streptozotocin; TNF: Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha; TnI: Troponin I.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) seed extract improves aerobic exercise performance in rats

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the supplementation with an açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) seed extract (ASE) would affect the aerobic exercise performance in rats and correlate with the vascular function, muscle oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Sedentary, Sedentary with chronic supplementation of ASE, Training, Training with chronic (200 mg/Kg/day intragastric gavage for 5 weeks) or acute (30 min before the maximal treadmill stress test (MST) supplementation with ASE. The exercise training was performed on a treadmill (30 min/day; 5 days/week) for 4 weeks. The chronic supplementation with ASE increased the exercise time (58%) and the running distance (129%) in relation to the MST, while the Training group increased 40% and 78% and the Training with acute ASE group increased 30% and 63%, respectively. The training-induced increase of ACh vasodilation was not changed by ASE, but the norepinephrine-induced vasoconstriction was reduced by chronic and acute supplementation with ASE. The increased levels of malondialdehyde in soleus muscle homogenates from the Training group was reduced only by chronic supplementation with ASE. The muscle antioxidant defense, NO₂ levels, and expression of the mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins (PGC1α, SIRT-1, p-AMPK/AMPK, Nrf-2) were not different between Training and Sedentary groups, but all these parameters were increased in the Training with Chronic ASE compared with the Sedentary groups. In conclusion, chronic supplementation with ASE improves aerobic physical performance by increasing the vascular function, reducing the oxidative stress, and up-regulating the mitochondrial biogenesis key proteins.

Elucidation of colon-protective efficacy of diosgenin in experimental TNBS-induced colitis: inhibition of NF-κB/IkB-α and Bax/Caspase-1 signaling pathways

The aim of present investigation was to elucidate the unrevealed beneficial role of diosgenin against an experimental model of TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesufonic acid)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). Colitis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by intrarectal administration of TNBS (in 50% ethanol). Then animals were treated with diosgenin (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) for 14 days. Various biochemical, behavioral, molecular, and histological analysis was performed. Diosgenin significantly decreased (p < 0.05) TNBS-induced elevated colonic oxido-nitrosative damage, myeloperoxidase, hydroxyproline, mRNA expressions of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ) and inflammatory markers (iNOs and COX-2) induced by TNBS. Western blot analysis relevated that TNBS-induced up-regulated protein expressions of NF-κB, IκBα, Bax, and Caspase-1 were markedly decreased (p < 0.05) by diosgenin treatment. It also markedly ameliorated the histological insults induced in the colon by TNBS. In conclusion, diosgenin exerts its colon-protective efficacy probably through the inhibition of NF-κB/IkB-α and Bax/Caspase-1 signaling pathways to experimental TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis.

ABBREVIATIONS

ANOVA: Analysis of variance; 5-ASA: 5-aminosalicylic acid; Bax: Bcl-2-associated X protein; COX-2: Cyclooxygenase-2; DAI: Disease Activity Index; DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide; GAPDH: Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GSH: Glutathione; HP: Hydroxyproline; IAEC: International Animal Ethics Committee; IBD: Inflammatory Bowel Disease; IBS: Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome; IL's: Interleukin's; IFN-γ: Interferon-gamma; IκBα: nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-alpha; iNOs: Inducible nitric oxide synthase; LTB4: Leukotriene B4; MDA: Malondialdehyde; MPO: Myeloperoxidase; NO: Nitric Oxide; NF-κB: Nuclear Factor-κB; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SOD: Superoxide Dismutase; TNBS: Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-α.

Protective Effect of N-Acetylcysteine Pretreatment on Acute Kidney Injury in Septic Rats

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) pretreatment on acute kidney injury in septic rats.

METHODS

We constructed a septic rat model by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) and assessed kidney tissue pathologic damage, renal function changes, and inflammatory factor levels. Meanwhile, we also assessed oxide and antioxidant enzyme levels in kidney tissues, observed apoptosis of kidney tissues, and evaluated mitochondrial membrane activity in renal cortical cells.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of NAC significantly alleviated pathologic damage of kidney tissues in septic rats; decreased the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and kidney injury molecule-1; and reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factor a, interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. Furthermore, NAC pretreatment reduced the level of protein-nitrotyrosine adducts and malondialdehyde in CLP-induced kidney tissues, while elevated the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. Moreover, pretreatment of NAC reduced the number of apoptosis in kidney tissues induced by CLP, decreased the mRNA levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, cytochrome c, and poly ADP-ribose polymerase, and increased mitochondrial membrane activity in renal cortical cells (complex I/II/III/IV).

CONCLUSIONS

NAC pretreatment has protective effects on acute kidney injury induced by CLP, and its mechanism is closely related to anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, antiapoptosis, and regulation of mitochondrial function.

Diarylheptanoid, a constituent isolated from methanol extract of Alpinia officinarum attenuates TNF-α level in Freund's complete adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory and destructive joint disease that affects the worldwide population. Alpinia officinarum Hance (Zingiberaceae), rhizomes are widely used ethnobotanically as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant agent in traditional medicine.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and possible mechanism of isolated phytoconstituent from the methanol extract of A. officinarum (MEAO) rhizomes against Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis in rats. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to study the binding mode of this compound into the active site of TNF-α.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diarylheptanoid was isolated from MEAO, well characterized (HPTLC, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and ESI-MS) and evaluated for its antiarthritic activity in female Wistar rats (170-200 g). Diarylheptanoid (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered starting from day 12. Various behavioral, biochemical, molecular and histopathology parameters were evaluated. Molecular docking study was performed using Glide module integrated into Schrodinger molecular modeling software.

RESULTS

The structure and molecular weight of the isolated compound (diarylheptanoid) were confirmed by 1D and mass spectral data and characterized as 1-phenyl-5-hydroxy-7- (4''-hydroxy-3''-methoxyphenyl) heptane-3-one (i.e., 5-HPH) with molecular formula C₂₀H₂₄O₄. Administration of 5-HPH (10 and 20 mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) FCA induced increases in paw volume, joint diameter, thermal hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia. It also significantly decreased oxido-inflammatory markers (SOD, GSH, MDA, and TNF-α). FCA induced a histological alteration in ankle joint also attenuated by 5-HPH. Its Glide docking score was found to be -9.702 with binding energy (Glide energy) of -37.033 kcal/mol.

CONCLUSION

5-HPH may exhibit its anti-arthritic potential via inhibition of elevated oxido-inflammatory markers thus restoring the elevated hyperalgesia, allodynia and reducing destruction in synovial membrane and cartilage. Therefore, 5-HPH is a potential moiety bearing antioxidant and with anti-inflammatory properties to inhibit FCA-induced arthritis in rats. The results of the present investigation should enable the design of potent small-molecule inhibitors that inactivate TNF-α with high affinity and specificity.

The combination of metformin and 2-deoxyglucose significantly inhibits cyst formation in miniature pigs with polycystic kidney disease

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The pathogenic mechanism of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is unclear. Similar to tumour cells, polycystic kidney cells are primarily dependent on aerobic glycolysis for ATP production. Compared with rodents, miniature pigs are more similar to humans. This study is the first time to investigate the effects of the combination of metformin and 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) in a pig model of chronic progressive ADPKD.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A miniature pig ADPKD model was established by inducible deletion of the PKD1 gene. Blood, urine and kidney biopsy specimens were collected for analysis at specific times. The renal vesicle index was analysed by three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans. Markers of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ERK signalling pathways and associated metabolism were detected by Western blots and colorimetry.

KEY RESULTS

The three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans indicated a markedly lower renal vesicle index in the combination therapy group. Each drug intervention group showed a significantly lower serum creatinine and urinary protein/creatinine ratio. This treatment regimen also inhibited the activities of markers of the proliferation-related mTOR and ERK pathways, and the expression of key enzymes involved in glycolysis, as well as reducing the production of ATP and lactic acid.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

This study showed that the combination of metformin and 2DG blocked the formation of renal cysts and improved the renal function in ADPKD miniature pigs. Our results indicate that the combination of metformin and 2DG may be a promising therapeutic strategy in human ADPKD.

Combination of Coenzyme Q10 Intake and Moderate Physical Activity Counteracts Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in a SAMP8 Mouse Model

Aging skeletal muscles are characterized by a progressive decline in muscle mass and muscular strength. Such muscular dysfunctions are usually associated with structural and functional alterations of skeletal muscle mitochondria. The senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) model, characterized by premature aging and high degree of oxidative stress, was used to investigate whether a combined intervention with mild physical exercise and ubiquinol supplementation was able to improve mitochondrial function and preserve skeletal muscle health during aging. 5-month-old SAMP8 mice, in a presarcopenia phase, have been randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 10): untreated controls and mice treated for two months with either physical exercise (0.5 km/h, on a 5% inclination, for 30 min, 5/7 days per week), ubiquinol 10 (500 mg/kg/day), or a combination of exercise and ubiquinol. Two months of physical exercise significantly increased mitochondrial damage in the muscles of exercised mice when compared to controls. On the contrary, ubiquinol and physical exercise combination significantly improved the overall status of the skeletal muscle, preserving mitochondrial ultrastructure and limiting mitochondrial depolarization induced by physical exercise alone. Accordingly, combination treatment while promoting mitochondrial biogenesis lowered autophagy and caspase 3-dependent apoptosis. In conclusion, the present study shows that ubiquinol supplementation counteracts the deleterious effects of physical exercise-derived ROS improving mitochondrial functionality in an oxidative stress model, such as SAMP8 in the presarcopenia phase.

Hesperidin, a plant flavonoid accelerated the cutaneous wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: Role of TGF-ß/Smads and Ang-1/Tie-2 signaling pathways

Background: Delayed wound healing is a diverse, multifactorial, complex and inter-related complication of diabetes resulting in significant clinical morbidity. Hesperidin possesses potent antidiabetic and wound healing activity.

Aim: To evaluate the potential of hesperidin against experimentally induced diabetes foot ulcers.

Methods: Diabetes was induced experimentally by streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg, i.p.) in Sprague Dawley rats (180-220 g) and wounds were created on the dorsal surface of the hind paw of rats. Hesperidin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered for 21 days after wound stabilization. Various biochemical, molecular and histopathological parameters were evaluated in wound tissue.

Results: STZ-induced decrease in body weight and increase in blood glucose, food, and water intake was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment. It showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in percent wound closure and serum insulin level. The STZ-induced decrease in SOD and GSH level, as well as elevated MDA and NO levels, were significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment. Intraperitoneal administration of STZ caused significant down-regulation in VEGF-c, Ang-1, Tie-2, TGF-β and Smad 2/3 mRNA expression in wound tissues whereas hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment showed significant up-regulation in these mRNA expressions. STZ-induced alteration in would architecture was also attenuated by hesperidin (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment.

Conclusion: Together, treatment with hesperidin accelerate angiogenesis and vasculogenesis via up-regulation of VEGF-c, Ang-1/Tie-2, TGF-β and Smad-2/3 mRNA expression to enhance wound healing in chronic diabetic foot ulcers.

Antioxidant Potential of Propolis, Bee Pollen, and Royal Jelly: Possible Medical Application

Honeybees products comprise of numerous substances, including propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly, which have long been known for their medicinal and health-promoting properties. Their wide biological effects have been known and used since antiquity. Bee products are considered to be a potential source of natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, or terpenoids. Nowadays, the still growing concern in natural substances capable of counteracting the effects of oxidative stress underlying the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, as well as negative effects of different harmful factors and drugs, is being observed. Having regarded the importance of acquiring drugs from natural sources, this review is aimed at updating the current state of knowledge of antioxidant capacity of selected bee products, namely, propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly, and of their potential antioxidant-related therapeutic applications. Moreover, the particular attention has been attributed to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying antioxidant properties of bee products. The influence of bee species, plant origin, geographic location, and seasonality as well as type of extraction solutions on the composition of bee products extracts were also discussed.

The effects of pollen, propolis, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester on tyrosine hydroxylase activity and total RNA levels in hypertensive rats caused by nitric oxide synthase inhibition: experimental, docking and molecular dynamic studies

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of propolis, pollen, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity and total RNA levels of Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) inhibition of nitric oxide synthase in the heart, adrenal medulla, and hypothalamus of hypertensive male Sprague dawley rats. The TH activity in the adrenal medulla, heart, and hypothalamus of the rats was significantly increased in the L-NAME group vs. control (p < 0.05). Treatment with L-NAME led to a significant increase in blood pressure (BP) in the L-NAME group compared to control (p < 0.05). These data suggest that propolis, pollen, and CAPE may mediate diminished TH activity in the heart, adrenal medulla, and hypothalamus in hypertensive rats. The decreased TH activity may be due to the modulation and synthesis of catecholamines and BP effects. In addition, the binding mechanism of CAPE within the catalytic domain of TH was investigated by means of molecular modeling approaches. These data suggest that the amino acid residues, Glu429 and Ser354 of TH may play a pivotal role in the stabilization of CAPE within the active site as evaluated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Gibbs binding free energy (ΔGbinding) of CAPE in complex with TH was also determined by post-processing MD analysis approaches (i.e. Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA) method).

Elucidation of protective efficacy of Pentahydroxy flavone isolated from Madhuca indica against arsenite-induced cardiomyopathy: Role of Nrf-2, PPAR-γ, c-fos and c-jun

BACKGROUND

Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. (Sapotaceae) is widely used ethnobotanically as anti-diabetic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. It was shown to possess potent anti-apoptotic property.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the possible mechanism of action of isolated phytoconstituent from Madhuca indica Leaves methanolic extract (MI-ALC) on arsenic-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone (QTN) was isolated and characterized by using HPTLC, ¹H NMR, and LC-MS from MI-ALC. QTN (5, 10 and 20mg/kg, p.o.) was administered in arsenic intoxicated rats (5mL/kg, p.o.) for 28days and evaluated for various behavioral, biochemical, molecular and ultra-histological changes.

RESULTS

Treatment with QTN (10 and 20mg/kg, p.o.) significantly inhibited (p<0.05) arsenic-induced electrocardiographic, hemodynamic and left ventricular function alterations. Elevated levels of cardiac markers (LDH, CK-MB, AST, ALT, and ALP), altered lipid metabolism (total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL, and VLDL) was significantly restored (p<0.05) by QTN. It also significantly inhibited (p<0.05) altered cardiac oxido-nitrosative stress, Na-K-ATPase level and mitochondrial enzymes (I-IV) activity after arsenite administration. QTN significantly increased (p<0.05) myocardial Nrf-2, PPAR-γ and significantly decreased (p<0.05) myocardial c-fos and c-jun mRNA expressions. Flow cytometric analysis showed that treatment with QTN (10 and 20mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p<0.05) arsenite-induce ROS and apoptosis. It also reduced ultra-histological aberrations induced by sodium arsenite.

CONCLUSION

Administration of 3,5,7,3',4'- Pentahydroxy flavone (i.e. Quercetin (QTN)) isolated from MI-ALC showed significant protection against arsenic-induced oxido-nitrosative stress and myocardial injury via modulation of Nrf2, PPAR-γ, and apoptosis.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of Guaianolide isolated from Cyathocline purpurea: Role of COX-2 inhibition

BACKGROUND

Inflammation activated by oxidative stress can cause various diseases, such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes, etc. Plant constituents with sesquiterpene lactones possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

AIM

To determine the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of isolated phytoconstituent from Cyathocline purpurea Buch-Ham ex D (CP). Don in laboratory animals. Furthermore, to understand the interactions involved in the binding of this compound to cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) via computational docking.

METHODS

Phytoconstituent was isolated, purified and well characterized (using IR, NMR, and MS) from ethyl acetate fraction of CP methanolic extract. It was then evaluated for its in-vitro antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and hydroxyl (OH) radical assays as well as in-vivo anti-inflammatory potential against carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The molecular docking study was performed against the crystal structure of COX-2 to evaluate the binding potential of phytoconstituent towards this enzyme.

RESULTS

The isolated compound 6α-hydroxy-4 [14], 10 [15]-guainadien-8α, 12-olide (HGN) showed significant (p<0.001) antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 76μg/mL. Administration of HGN (10 and 20mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) reduced the increased paw volume after subplantar administration of carrageenan. It also exhibits good binding affinity towards with COX-2 with a docking score of -8.98 and Glide binding energy of -36.488kcal/mol shedding light on the potential mechanism of anti-inflammatory action.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of hydroxyl group in HGN provides a credential to its in-vivo anti-inflammatory and in-vitro antioxidant activities. Furthermore, the good binding affinity of HGN for the active site of COX-2 may open novel vistas in therapeutic option with natural antioxidants like Cyathocline purpurea to treat various inflammatory disorders.

Ameliorative effects of Artemisia pallens in a murine model of ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma via modulation of biochemical perturbations

INTRODUCTION

Asthma is a chronic, heterogeneous airway disorder characterized by airway inflammatory and remodeling. Artemisia pallens has been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic potential.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the anti-asthmatic effects of methanolic extract of Artemisia pallens (APME) against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

AHR was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats (180-200g) by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of OVA and boosted with an identical OVA solution (s.c.) on day 7. Rats were either treated orally with vehicle (10mg/kg), montelukast (10mg/kg) or APME (100, 200 and 400mg/kg) for next 28days. At the end treatments, various biochemical, molecular (RT-PCR and ELISA analysis) and histological parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

APME (200 and 400mg/kg) significantly attenuated (p<0.05) OVA-induced alteration in lung functions measured by Whole-body plethysmography. Increased Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) fluid differential cell count, as well as total protein and albumin in BAL fluid and lungs, was significantly decreased (p<0.05) by APME. It also significantly attenuated (p<0.05) elevated lung oxido-nitrosative stress, myeloperoxidase, and serum IgE levels. OVA-induced down-regulation in lung Nrf2 and upregulation in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, TGF-β mRNA expression was significantly attenuated (p<0.05) by APME (200 and 400mg/kg) treatment. Histopathological analysis of lung tissue showed that APME treatment reduced OVA-induced inflammatory influx and fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

Artemisia pallens simultaneously orchestrate plethora of mechanisms viz. modulations of IgE, TGF-β, TNF-α, IL's and Nrf-2 levels to exhibit its anti-asthmatic potential in OVA-induced AHR in rats.

Glycosides Based Standardized Fenugreek Seed Extract Ameliorates Bleomycin-induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats Via Modulation of Endogenous Enzymes

BACKGROUND

Liver fibrosis a complex process of excess collagen deposition resulted in disturbance of hepatic cellar function. Glycosides based standardized fenugreek seed extract (SFSE-G) has potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic properties.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of SFSE-G against bleomycin (BLM)-induced liver fibrosis in laboratory animals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats (180-220 g) were assigned to various groups, namely, normal, sham, BLM control, SFSE-G (5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, p.o.), methylprednisolone (10 mg/kg, p.o.), and sildenafil (25 mg/kg, p.o.). Liver fibrosis was induced in various groups (except normal and sham) by single intratracheal BLM (6 IU/kg) injection. Various biochemical, molecular (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) and histological parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

Intratracheal BLM administration caused significant induction (P < 0.001) of hepatotoxicity and liver fibrosis reflected by elevated levels of serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total as well as direct bilirubin, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Administration of SFSE-G (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced (P < 0.001) levels of AST, ALT, and GGT and significantly increased (P < 0.001) the level of serum albumin. BLM-induced elevated liver oxidative stress and decreased total antioxidant capacity was significantly restored (P < 0.001) by SFSE-G (20 and 40 mg/kg) treatment. It also significantly inhibited BLM-induced alteration in liver Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) mRNA expression. SFSE-G treatment reduced histopathological alteration induced by BLM in liver.

CONCLUSION

SFSE-G exerts its hepatoprotective potential via inhibition of oxido-nitrosative stress and modulation of FXR mRNA expression thus ameliorates BLM-induced liver fibrosis.

Neuroprotective effect of Azadirachta indica standardized extract in partial sciatic nerve injury in rats: Evidence from anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic studies

Chronic neuropathic pain is a common and widely recognized pain syndrome for patients and difficult to manage for physicians. Azadirachta indica (AI) possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of AI standardized extract in an animal model of peripheral neuropathy induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL). PSNL was induced in male Wistar rats (180-200 g) with tight ligation of the nerve. Rats received treatment with either vehicle i.e. distilled water (PSNL control), Pyridoxine (100 mg/kg, p.o.) or AI (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) for 28 days. Various behavioral parameters, biochemical, molecular and histological parameters were evaluated. PSNL resulted in a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in allodynia, hyperalgesia, motor coordination and motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) whereas chronic treatment with AI (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) these behavioral changes. Enhanced activity of oxidative-nitrosative stress, inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB) as well as mRNA expression of Bax, Caspase-3, and iNOs were significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) by AI treatment. It also significantly increased (p < 0.05) peripheral blood oxygen content and Bcl-2 mRNA expression. The flow cytometric analysis revealed that AI (200 and 400 mg/kg) treatment significantly attenuated neural apoptosis and reactive oxygen species levels. PSNL induced histological aberrations were also decreased by AI treatment. Azadirachta indica exerts its neuroprotection against PSNL induced neuropathic pain via inhibition of oxidative-nitrosative stress, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis to improve MNCV (graphical abstract, Figure 1(Fig. 1)).

Hepatoprotective effect of withanolide-rich fraction in acetaminophen-intoxicated rat: decisive role of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS

CONTEXT

Overdose of acetaminophen (APAP) is common in humans and is often associated with hepatic damage. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) shows multiple pharmacological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possible mechanism of hepatoprotective activity of withanolide-rich fraction (WRF) isolated from a methanolic extract of Withania somnifera roots.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced by oral administration of APAP (750 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 d. The control group received the vehicle. APAP-treated animals were given either silymarin (25 mg/kg) or graded doses of WRF (50, 100 and 200mg/kg) 2 h prior to APAP administration. Animals were killed on 15th day and blood and liver tissue samples were collected for the further analysis.

RESULTS

In WRF-treated group, there was significant and dose-dependent (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) decrease in serum bilirubin, ALP, AST and ALT levels with significant and dose-dependent (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) increase in hepatic SOD, GSH and total antioxidant capacity. The level of MDA and NO decreased significantly (p < 0.01) by WRF treatment. Up-regulated mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS was significantly down-regulated (p < 0.001) by WRF. Histological alternations induced by APAP in liver were restored to near normality by WRF pretreatment.

CONCLUSION

WRF may exert its hepatoprotective action by alleviating inflammatory and oxido-nitrosative stress via inhibition of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-II and iNOS.

Age-related changes in skeletal muscle mitochondria: the role of exercise

Aging is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, which leads to a decline in cellular function and the development of age-related diseases. Reduced skeletal muscle mass with aging appears to promote a decrease in mitochondrial quality and quantity. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction adversely affects the quality and quantity of skeletal muscle. During aging, physical exercise can cause beneficial adaptations to cellular energy metabolism in skeletal muscle, including alterations to mitochondrial content, protein, and biogenesis. Here, we briefly summarize current findings on the association between the aging process and impairment of mitochondrial function, including mitochondrial biogenesis and reactive oxygen species in skeletal muscle. We also discuss the potential role of exercise in the improvement of aging-driven mitochondrial dysfunctions.

Gastroprotective potential of Pentahydroxy flavone isolated from Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. leaves against acetic acid-induced ulcer in rats: The role of oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins markers

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. (Sapotaceae) has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective potential. It has been traditionally used as laxative, tonic, anti-burn, anti-earthworm, wound healing and headache.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the efficacy and possible mechanism of Madhuca indica J. F. Gmel. leaves methanolic extract (MI-ALC) and its isolated chloroform fraction (D3) against experimental induced gastric ulcers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

D3 was isolated from MI-ALC, well characterized (HPTLC, FT-IR, (1)H-NMR and LC-MS) and evaluated for its gastroprotective activity by using acetic acid induced ulcer in male Wistar rats (150-200g). D3 (2.5, 5 and 10mg/kg, p.o.) were administered for the period of 14 days. At the end of treatment, rats were sacrificed to collect the stomach sample for evaluation of antioxidant (SOD, GSH, and MDA) enzyme, oxido-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1, iNOs) and prostaglandins (COX-II) markers by using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The structure and molecular weight (MW) of the isolated compound (D3) were confirmed by 1D and 2D spectral data and characterized as 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone with MW C15H10O7. Administration of 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone (5 and 10mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently inhibited (P<0.01 and P<0.001) acetic acid induced an alteration in the antioxidant enzyme. It also significantly and dose-dependently down-regulated gastric oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins markers. Histopathological aberration induced in the stomach also attenuated by 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone treatment.

CONCLUSION

Finding of present investigation suggests that MI-ALC possessed potent antiulcer activity due to the presence of 3,5,7,3',4'-Pentahydroxy flavone via its oxido-inflammatory and prostaglandins modulatory potential.

Isolates of Alpinia officinarum Hance as COX-2 inhibitors: Evidence from anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and molecular docking studies

BACKGROUND

Inflammation triggered by oxidative stress can cause various ailments, such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, diabetes etc. In the last few years, there has been a renewed interest in studying the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of plant constituents such as flavonoids and diarylheptanoids.

AIM

To evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activity and the total phenolic content of isolated compounds from Alpinia officinarum rhizomes. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to study the binding mode of these compounds into the active site of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).

METHODS

A. officinarum rhizomes were extracted by maceration, using methanol. This extract was further fractionated by partitioning with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate and these fractions on further purification resulted in isolation of five pure compounds. Characterization was carried out by using (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR and MS. They were further evaluated for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. Molecular docking study was performed using Glide module integrated in Schrodinger molecular modeling software.

RESULTS

The compounds were identified as 1,7-diphenylhept-4-en-3-one (1), 5-hydroxy-1,7-diphenyl-3-heptanone (2), 3,5,7-trihydroxyflavone (Galangin, 3), 3,5,7-trihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavone (Kaempferide, 4) and 5-hydroxy-7-(4″-hydroxy-3″-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-3-heptanone (5). The compound-3 and compound-5 (10mg/kg) showed significant (p<0.001) antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Moreover, total phenolic content was detected as 72.96 mg and 51.18 mg gallic acid equivalent respectively. All the five isolates were found to be good binders with COX-2 (average docking score -9.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Galangin and 5-hydroxy-7-(4″-hydroxy-3″-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-3-heptanone exhibited anti-inflammatory and in-vitro antioxidant activity which may be due to presence of phenolic content in it. The molecular docking study revealed that these compounds have affinity towards COX-2 active site which can further be explored as selective COX-2 inhibitors. The results obtained in this work justify the use of A. officinarum in the treatment of inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Naringin ameliorates sodium arsenite-induced renal and hepatic toxicity in rats: decisive role of KIM-1, Caspase-3, TGF-β, and TNF-α

Chronic exposure of a naturally occurring metal arsenic leads to renal and hepatic diseases. Naringin, a flavanone glycoside, possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant potential. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the protective effect of naringin against arsenic-induced renal and hepatic toxicity in rats. Renal and hepatic toxicity was induced in rats by sodium arsenite (5 mg/kg, p.o.). Rats were treated orally with either vehicle or naringin (20, 40, and 80 mg/kg) or Coenzyme Q10 (10 mg/kg) for 28 days. Various biochemical, histological, and molecular biomarkers were assessed in kidney and liver. Treatment with naringin (40 and 80 mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently restored (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) altered levels of kidney (serum creatinine, urine creatinine, BUN, uric acid, and creatinine clearance) and liver function test (AST and ALT) induced by sodium arsenite. Elevated levels of oxido-nitrosative stress in renal and hepatic tissue was significantly and dose-dependently decreased (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) by naringin (40 and 80 mg/kg) treatment. It significantly and dose-dependently down-regulated (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) renal KIM-1, Caspase-3, TGF-β, and TNF-α mRNA expression. Histopathological alteration induced in kidney and liver by sodium arsenite was reduced by naringin (40 and 80 mg/kg) treatment. In conclusion, naringin treatment ameliorates arsenic-induced renal and hepatic damage in rats due its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties via down-regulation of elevated oxido-nitrosative stress, KIM-1, Caspase-3, TGF-β, and TNF-α levels.