Bixin protects mice against bronchial asthma though modulating PI3K/Akt pathway

Bixin alleviates radiation-induced intestinal damage via inflammation regulation and barrier recovery

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy for cancer treatment or unintentional exposure to ionizing radiation causes severe damage to the unaffected tissues of the digestive system, including gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Radiation exposure leads to an inflammatory response, and uncontrolled inflammation exacerbates radiation-induced tissue injury. Bixin is a liposoluble apocarotenoid isolated from Bixa orrellana seeds, which effectively attenuates several inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated whether bixin mitigated radiation-induced intestinal damage through an examination of its role in inflammation and the protection of the epithelial barrier.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To determine the therapeutic effects of bixin in treating radiation-induced intestinal damage, we carried out histological analyses, inflammatory response examinations, and barrier function assessments using a mouse model of radiation-induced enteropathy.

RESULTS

We uncovered that bixin effectively mitigates radiation-induced enteropathy by suppressing the inflammatory response, reducing inflammatory cell accumulation, and limiting cytokine expression in the radiation-induced intestinal injury. In a mouse model of acute radiation-induced intestinal injury, treatment with bixin enhanced nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) activation and promoted tight junction expression in the epithelium, while also hindering bacterial translocation to the mesenteric lymph nodes.

CONCLUSION

Bixin represents a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of radiation-induced enteropathy.

TRIM7 knockdown protects against LPS-induced autophagy, ferroptosis, and inflammatory responses in human bronchial epithelial cells

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory diseases in pediatric department. Several asthma-associated events including inflammatory responses, autophagy, and ferroptosis have been identified as typical pathological processes. TRIM7 is a member of TRIM proteins family associated with several types of diseases. Nevertheless, its role in asthma is still elusive. The current research showed that TRIM7 was involved in the pathogenesis of asthma mainly by regulating the Akt signaling pathway. In detail, we found that TRIM7 was highly expressed in patients with asthma and in an in vitro model of asthma. The following analysis indicated that TRIM7 knockdown attenuated the expression and secretion of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-exposed human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs). Meanwhile, knockdown of TRIM7 exerted inhibitory effects on LPS-induced autophagy and ferroptosis. Further mechanistic studies showed that TRIM7 knockdown inhibited LPS-induced activation of Akt pathway, while overexpression of Akt attenuated the inhibitory effects of TRIM7 knockdown on LPS-exposed HBECs. Collectively, we reported here that TRIM7 knockdown inhibited LPS-induced autophagy, ferroptosis, and inflammatory cytokine secretion in HBECs via regulating the Akt pathway, providing a new insight into the strategies for improving asthma treatments.

Oxidative stress in asthma pathogenesis: mechanistic insights and implications for airway smooth muscle dysfunction

Airway smooth muscle (ASM) dysfunction is a key factor in the narrowing of airways in asthma patients, characterized by excessive secretion of inflammatory factors, increased mass, and amplified contractile responses. These pathological features are instrumental in the propagation of airway inflammation, structural remodeling, and the escalation of airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), which are also principal factors underlying the limitations of current therapeutic strategies. In asthmatic ASM, an imbalance between oxidant production and antioxidant defenses culminates in oxidative stress, which is involved in the excessive secretion of inflammatory factors, increased mass, and amplified contractile responses of ASM, and is a critical etiological factor implicated in the dysregulation of ASM function. The molecular pathways through which oxidative stress exerts its effects on ASM in asthma are multifaceted, with the Nrf2/HO-1, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt pathways being particularly noteworthy. These characteristic pathways play a potential role by connecting with different upstream and downstream signaling molecules and are involved in the amplification of ASM inflammatory responses, increased mass, and AHR. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the phenotypic expression of ASM dysfunction in asthma, the interplay between oxidants and antioxidants, and the evidence base and molecular underpinnings linking oxidative stress to ASM dysfunction. Given the profound implications of ASM dysfunction on the airflow limitation in asthma and the seminal role of oxidative stress in this process, a deeper exploration of these mechanisms is essential for unraveling the pathogenesis of asthma and may offer novel perspectives for its prophylaxis and management.

Potential use of bixin beyond function as a natural colourant in food and cosmetics

Bixin is a carotenoid found in the covering of Bixa orellana seeds and widely used as a dye, mainly in food products and cosmetics. This compound is insoluble in water, but technologies have been developed for its use in aqueous preparations, as well as a component for new formulations to disperse other lipophilic ingredients. It has recently aroused the interest of researchers in areas such as Pharmacology, Endocrinology and Oncology, but also new applications in Food Technology. This work aimed to review the main studies in the period from 1911 to 2023, but we emphasised aspects in technologies related to the field of health such as Pharmacology and Pharmacy. We used 'bixin' as a keyword to search for articles on the Web of Science and obtained 488 results, most of which were original articles and 20 were reviews. The analysis demonstrated a continuing large number of studies in Food Technology, but a rapid growth in areas related to health aspects.

Bioinformatics and Network Pharmacology Identify the Therapeutic Role of Guominkang in Allergic Asthma by Inhibiting PI3K/Akt Signaling

Background

As a classical regulating formula, Guominkang (GMK) has been extensively employed in clinical practice to treat the allergic asthma (AA) and alleviate allergy symptoms, however, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. The aim of this study was to explored the mechanism of action through which GMK combats AA.

Methods

Potential target genes for the compounds were identified from the database and subjected to functional enrichment analysis. Subsequently, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed in order to screen the core target and confirmed by molecular docking. An asthma model was further developed in mice and airway hyperresponsiveness and lung pathological changes were observed following drug administration. The expression of PI3K and AKT proteins in lung tissues was then detected by Western blotting. Subsequently, the GSE104468 data were normalised and visualised using the R language, compared to the PI3K-Akt pathway gene set to identify overlapping genes, constructed a PPI network and analysed correlations between genes.

Results

267 compounds and 475 disease-relevant GMK targets have been obtained, primarily in the areas of chemokine binding, drug binding, and PI3K-Akt pathway modulation. Molecular docking simulations revealed that predicted targets (PI3K, TNF, IL6, AKT1, SRC, TP53, and STAT3) could be closely bonded with component of GMK. According to in vivo experiments, GMK could reduce mucus obstruction and airway inflammation (P < 0.05), decrease airway hyperresponsiveness (P < 0.05), and inhibited the PI3K-Akt pathway (P < 0.05). After normalising the genes in the dataset between AA and healthy individuals, GO showed that 388 DEGs were associated with PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The PPI network showed that the overlapping gene were located in the centre of asthma-associated network and that exhibited a correlation with the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, GMK potentially acts via the PI3K/Akt pathway and alleviates allergic symptoms in AA.

Effects of E-Cigs on Physiological Pathways and Proposed Therapeutic Intervention with Bixin

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) have increased in popularity and usage over the last few decades. There is rising concern regarding the long-term effects of e-cigs on human health, considering their relatively recent introduction to the market. E-cigs are generally composed of a liquid containing nicotine and various chemicals, a battery, a vaporization chamber, and a coil that serves to heat the liquid upon inhalation of the mouthpiece. While e-cigs were initially introduced as a healthy alternative to cigarette smoking, recent research has demonstrated the cytotoxic effects of nicotinic e-cig devices on multiple cell types, including epithelial and endothelial cells, along with causing dysregulation of inflammatory pathways. This review will discuss the harmful effects of e-cigs on the human body, highlighting the physiological impact of e-cigs on pulmonary, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular health. Moreover, this review will highlight the potential therapeutic effects of bixin, an apocarotenoid found in the seeds of Bixa orellana, also known as the achiote tree, due to its innate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities that have been demonstrated in recent research. Nanotechnology has surfaced in the past few decades as a powerful tool for medicinal practice. Specifically, nanoparticles serve as a potential method for treating various conditions and diseases. Bixin nanoparticles show promise as a viable method for treating e-cig-induced damage due to the innate properties of bixin and the advantages of using nanoparticles compared to conventional medicinal interventions.

Exploring the potential mechanisms of Mahuang Fuzi Xixin decoction in treating elderly bronchial asthma through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations

Modern medical practice has confirmed the efficacy of Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Decoction (MHFZXXD) in treating elderly bronchial asthma, but its specific mechanisms of action remain to be clarified. Therefore, this study utilizes network pharmacology, molecular docking techniques, and molecular dynamics simulations to explore the key active components, core target genes, and potential mechanisms of MHFZXXD in the treatment of elderly bronchial asthma. Active components and related targets of MHFZXXD were identified through the retrieval and screening of the TCMSP, Swiss Targets Prediction, and Uniprot databases. Relevant targets for elderly bronchial asthma were searched using the GeneCards, OMIM, and Pharm GKB databases, followed by the selection of intersecting targets between the drug's active components and the disease. A PPI network diagram was created using String and Cytoscape software, and the intersecting targets of the disease and the active components of traditional Chinese medicine were imported into the DAVID database for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis to further explore their potential mechanisms of action. Subsequently, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed using AutoDock Vina and Gromacs to verify the binding capacity and stability of the core genes with the key active components. The study results indicate that the active components of MHFZXXD, such as quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol, target multiple genes including AKT1, EGF, MYC, TGFB1, PTEN, and CCND1. They exert effects through signaling pathways such as TNF, PI3K-Akt, and HIF-1. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations show that the core targets bind stably with the key active components. Overall, MHFZXXD may reduce inflammatory responses and improve hypoxic conditions and apoptosis during the progression of elderly bronchial asthma through multiple active components, targets, and signaling pathways, thereby delaying the malignant progression of the disease. This provides relevant evidence and experimental data for clinical treatment and further research.

Revealing the mechanism and efficacy of natural products on treating the asthma: Current insights from traditional medicine to modern drug discovery

Asthma remains a significant global health challenge, demanding innovative approaches to treatment. Traditional medicine has a rich history of using natural products to alleviate asthmatic symptoms. However, transitioning from these traditional remedies to modern drug discovery approaches has provided fresh insights into the mechanisms and effectiveness of these natural products. This study provides our comprehensive review, which examines the current state of knowledge in the treatment of asthma. It delves into the mechanisms through which natural products ameliorate asthma symptoms, and it discusses their potential in the development of novel therapeutic interventions. Our analysis reveals that natural products, traditionally employed for asthma relief, exhibit diverse mechanisms of action. These include anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, immunomodulatory effects, and reducing gene expression. In the context of modern drug discovery, these natural compounds serve as valuable candidates for the development of novel asthma therapies. The transition from traditional remedies to modern drug discovery represents a promising avenue for asthma treatment. Our review highlights the substantial efficacy of natural products in managing asthma symptoms, underpinned by well-defined mechanisms of action. By bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary approaches, we contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field, emphasizing the potential of natural products in shaping the future of asthma therapy.

Therapeutic potential of bixin on inflammation: a mini review

Chronic inflammation is the underlying mechanism for many diseases. Thus, inflammatory signaling pathways are valuable targets for new treatment modalities. Natural products have gained interest as a potential source of bioactive compounds which provide health benefits in combating inflammatory-related diseases. Recent reports have linked the medicinal values of Bixa orellana L. with its anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, this review aims to examine the therapeutic potential of bixin, a major bioactive constituent found in the seeds of B. orellana, on inflammatory-related diseases based on existing in vitro and in vivo evidence. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of bixin via signaling pathways is explored and possible toxic effects are addressed. The findings suggest that bixin may ameliorate inflammation via inhibition of toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B (TLR4/NF-κB), phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) and thioredoxin-interacting protein/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (TXNIP/NLRP3) inflammasome mechanisms. More well-planned clinical studies should be performed to verify its effectiveness and safety profile.

Investigation of the inhibitory effect and mechanism of epigallocatechin-3-gallate against Streptococcus suis sortase A

AIMS

Streptococcus suis seriously harms people and animals, and importantly, causes great economic losses in the pig industry. Similar to most Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, sortase A (SrtA) of S. suis can mediate the anchoring of a variety of virulence factors that contain specific sorting sequences to the surface of the bacterial cell wall envelope and participate in pathogenicity. The purpose of this study is to clarify the molecular mechanism of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inhibiting S. suis SrtA and provide more evidence for the development of novel anti-S. suis infections drugs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Through the SrtA substrate cleavage experiment, we found that the main component of green tea, EGCG, can effectively inhibit the enzyme activity of S. suis SrtA. Further, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were used to clarify the molecular mechanism of its inhibitory effect, demonstrating that EGCG mainly interacts with amino acids at 113 and 115 to exert its inhibitory function. It was previously found that EGCG can inhibit the growth of S. suis and reduce the activity of suilysin and inhibit its expression. Our research reveals a new function of EGCG in S. suis infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research proves that EGCG can effectively inhibit the transpeptidase activity of SrtA. We also clarify the accompanying molecular mechanism, providing more sufficient evidence for the use of EGCG as a potential lead compound against S. suis infection.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking to explore the potential mechanism of urolithin A in combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome

This research used network pharmacology, molecular docking, in vivo studies, and other techniques to investigate the biological activity and mechanism of action of urolithin A (UA) in treating combined allergic rhinitis and asthma syndrome (CARAS). Urolithin A and potential related targets of allergic rhinitis and asthma were searched from the public databases. Then, bioinformatics analyses were given to protein-protein interaction (PPI), Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Subsequently, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation were performed, aiming at predicting the binding of the active compound to the core target. Finally, in vivo experiment was conducted for further validation. A total of 45 common targets of allergic rhinitis and urolithin A and 62 common targets of asthma and urolithin A were identified, among which six common core targets were screened with Cytoscape. Molecular docking indicated that these core targets had good binding activity to urolithin A, which was further confirmed by molecular dynamics simulation. In the CARAS mouse model, urolithin A showed anti-inflammatory properties. The biological activity and regulatory network of UA on CARAS were revealed, and the anti-inflammatory effect of UA was clarified, which could be associated with the equilibrium of the immune system's Th1/Th2 cells.

Echinochrome Ameliorates Physiological, Immunological, and Histopathological Alterations Induced by Ovalbumin in Asthmatic Mice by Modulating the Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Asthma is a persistent inflammatory disease of the bronchi characterized by oxidative stress, airway remodeling, and inflammation. Echinochrome (Ech) is a dark-red pigment with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this research, we aimed to investigate the effects of Ech against asthma-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and histopathological alterations in the spleen, liver, and kidney in mice. Mice were divided into four groups (n = 8 for each): control, asthmatic, and asthmatic mice treated intraperitoneally with 0.1 and 1 mg/kg of Ech. In vitro, findings confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Ech. Ech showed antiasthmatic effects by lowering the serum levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin 4 (IL-4), and interleukin 1β (IL-1β). It attenuated oxidative stress by lowering malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) contents and increasing reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and catalase (CAT) in the liver, spleen, and kidney. Moreover, it protected asthma-induced kidney and liver functions by increasing total protein and albumin and decreasing aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels. Additionally, it ameliorated histopathological abnormalities in the lung, liver, spleen, and kidney. Additionally, molecular docking studies were used to examine the interactions between Ech and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). PCR and Western blot analyses confirmed the association of Ech with Keap1 and, consequently, the regulatory role of Ech in the Keap1-(nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) Nrf2 signaling pathway in the liver, spleen, and kidney. According to our findings, Ech prevented asthma and its complications in the spleen, liver, and kidney. Inhibition of inflammation and oxidative stress are two of echinochrome's therapeutic actions in managing asthma by modulating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Epithelial cell dysfunction in chronic rhinosinusitis: the epithelial-mesenchymal transition

INTRODUCTION

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a type of epithelial cell dysfunction, which is widely present in the nasal mucosa of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), especially CRS with nasal polyps, and contributes to pathogenesis of the disease. EMT is mediated via complex mechanisms associated with multiple signaling pathways.

AREAS COVERED

We have summarized the underlying mechanisms and signaling pathways promoting EMT in CRS. Strategies or drugs/agents targeting the genes and pathways related to the regulation of EMT are also discussed for their potential use in the treatment of CRS and asthma. A literature search of studies published in English from 2000 to 2023 was conducted using the PubMed database, employing CRS, EMT, signaling, mechanisms, targeting agents/drugs, as individual or combinations of search terms.

EXPERT OPINION

EMT in nasal epithelium not only leads to epithelial cell dysfunction but also plays an important role in nasal tissue remodeling in CRS. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying EMT and the development of drugs/agents targeting these mechanisms may provide new treatment strategies for CRS.

Bixin-loaded colloidal nanodelivery systems, techniques and applications

Bixin is the cis-carotenoid from the seed of achiote tree or annatto. It is an approved liposoluble apocarotenoid by FDA as colorant and additive in the food industry. Nonetheless, bixin is unstable in the presence of oxygen, light, high pHs (alkali) and heat; thereby reducing its bioavailability/bioactivity, and also, with a low solubility in water. Some biopolymeric (e.g., nanofibers, nanogels, and nanotubes) and lipid-based nanocarriers (nanoliposomes, niosomes, hexosomes, nanoemulsions, solid-lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers) have been introduced for bixin. Thus, this review focuses on the updated information regarding bixin-loaded nanodelivery platforms. Moreover, it provides a comprehensive review of bioavailability, physicochemical properties, and applications of nanoencapsulated-bixin as an additive, its release rate and safety issues. These findings will bring potential strategies for the usage of nanocarriers in managing bixin defaults to improve its broad application in various industries.

CST1 promotes the proliferation and migration of PDGF-BB-treated airway smooth muscle cells via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Typically, airway remodeling caused by migration and proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiological characteristics of asthma development. Cystatin 1 (CST1), a protein-coding gene referred to as Cystatin SN, is highly expressed in asthma patients. However, the role of CST1 and related molecular mechanisms in the development of asthma remains to be explored. This study aims to investigate the role of CST1 in asthma progression and present related molecular mechanisms. To explore these aspects, human ASMCs with platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) are initially stimulated and applied as a cellular model of asthma. Further, CST1 is knocked down with small interfering ribose nucleic acid (siRNA) overexpressed with plasmids. Then, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) and Cell Count Kit (CCK)-8 assays are applied to assess the cell proliferation rates. Further, Transwell and Western blot analyses for migration of cells and expression of MMP1 and MMP9 proteins are assessed, respectively. Under PDGF-BB stimulation, human ASMCs showed an increased CST1 expression, enhanced proliferation, and migration abilities, as well as up-regulated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Further, knockdown or overexpression of CST1 presented the declined or enhanced proliferation, migration, and up-regulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway of human ASMCs. Inhibiting PI3K/AKT signaling pathway displayed the reduced migration and proliferation of human ASMCs. In summary, these findings indicated that CST1 played an essential role in the progression of asthma by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and promoting the migration and proliferation abilities of human ASMCs treated with PDGF-BB.

Recent advances in respiratory diseases: Dietary carotenoids as choice of therapeutics

A group of bioactive, isoprenoid pigments known as carotenoids is mostly present in fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are essential for the prevention of physiological issues, which makes maintaining excellent health easier. They are effective functional ingredients with potent health-promoting properties that are widely present in our food and linked to a decrease in the prevalence of chronic diseases, including respiratory diseases. Respiratory infections are the primary cause of death and life-threatening conditions globally, wreaking havoc on the global health system. People rely on dietary sources of carotenoids to reduce a plethora of respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, asthma, and so on. Carotenoids have received a lot of interest recently in several parts of the world due to their therapeutic potential in altering the pathogenic pathways underlying inflammatory respiratory diseases, which may improve disease control and have beneficial health benefits. This review aimed to provide a thorough understanding of the therapeutic potential of dietary carotenoids in the treatment of respiratory diseases and to identify possible candidates for novel therapeutic development.

Sepsis-induced AKI: From pathogenesis to therapeutic approaches

Sepsis is a heterogenous and highly complex clinical syndrome, which is caused by infectious or noninfectious factors. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common and severe complication of sepsis, and it is associated with high mortality and poor outcomes. Recent evidence has identified that autophagy participates in the pathophysiology of sepsis-associated AKI. Despite the use of antibiotics, the mortality rate is still at an extremely high level in patients with sepsis. Besides traditional treatments, many natural products, including phytochemicals and their derivatives, are proved to exert protective effects through multiple mechanisms, such as regulation of autophagy, inhibition of inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis, etc. Accumulating evidence has also shown that many pharmacological inhibitors might have potential therapeutic effects in sepsis-induced AKI. Hence, understanding the pathophysiology of sepsis-induced AKI may help to develop novel therapeutics to attenuate the complications of sepsis and lower the mortality rate. This review updates the recent progress of underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of sepsis-associated AKI, focuses specifically on autophagy, and summarizes the potential therapeutic effects of phytochemicals and pharmacological inhibitors.

Untapping the protective role of carotenoids against respiratory diseases

BACKGROUND

Recent studies revealed a substantial role of carotenoids to treat respiratory diseases. This review aimed to give an updated overview of the investigational evidence on the preventive properties of carotenoids against respiratory diseases both in vitro and in vivo along with their pathophysiology and mechanisms of action.

HYPOTHESIS

Carotenoids as a potential therapeutic class of bioactive compounds to treat respiratory diseases.

RESULTS

Carotenoids such as β-carotene, lycopene, crocin, bixin, lutein, and astaxanthin show beneficial effects against chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, emphysema, fibrosis, COPD, acute lung injury, and lung cancer). Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies also supported the preventive role of carotenoids. These carotenoids showed a beneficial role by activation of the NRF2/HO-1 pathway and inhibition of the NF-кB, MAPK, JAK/STAT-3, and PI3K/AKT pathways. Additionally, epidemiological studies also showed that dietary intake of carotenoids lowers the risk of lung diseases.

CONCLUSION

Carotenoids may be used as drugs or can be given in combination with other drugs to prevent and treat respiratory diseases. Although in vitro and in vivo results are encouraging, further well-conducted randomized clinical trials are required to approve carotenoids as drug candidates.

Natural phytochemicals that affect autophagy in the treatment of oral diseases and infections: A review

Autophagy is a critical factor in eukaryotic evolution. Cells provide nutrition and energy during autophagy by destroying non-essential components, thereby allowing intracellular material conversion and managing temporary survival stress. Autophagy is linked to a variety of oral disorders, including the type and extent of oral malignancies. Furthermore, autophagy is important in lymphocyte formation, innate immunity, and the regulation of acquired immune responses. It is also required for immunological responses in the oral cavity. Knowledge of autophagy has aided in the identification and treatment of common oral disorders, most notably cancers. The involvement of autophagy in the oral immune system may offer a new understanding of the immune mechanism and provide a novel approach to eliminating harmful bacteria in the body. This review focuses on autophagy creation, innate and acquired immunological responses to autophagy, and the status of autophagy in microbial infection research. Recent developments in the regulatory mechanisms of autophagy and therapeutic applications in oral illnesses, particularly oral cancers, are also discussed. Finally, the relationship between various natural substances that may be used as medications and autophagy is investigated.

Lysionotin Induces Ferroptosis to Suppress Development of Colorectal Cancer via Promoting Nrf2 Degradation

Extensive use of substances derived from natural sources has been documented in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Lysionotin (Lys) is a flavonoid present in the flowers and leaves of Gesneriaceae family plants. Despite its various pharmacological properties, which include neuroprotective, pro, antimalarial, and anticancer effects, the therapeutic advantages of Lys for CRC remain uncertain. In this present study, we demonstrated that Lys treatment successfully inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCT116 and SW480 CRC cells in vitro. Intriguingly, significant ferroptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in CRC cells were induced by Lys treatment, whereas antagonism of ferroptosis by Liproxstatin-1 (Lip1) pretreatment retarded the anti-CRC effects of Lys. In addition, Lys reduced the amount of Nrf2 protein in CRC cells by increasing the rate at which it is degraded. Overexpression of Nrf2 rescued Lys reduced ferroptosis, suggesting the Nrf2 signaling is a crucial determinant of whether Lys induces ferroptosis in CRC cells. We also revealed that Lys suppressed tumor growth in vivo without obvious adverse effects on the main organs of mice. In conclusion, our results discovered that Lys treatment induced ferroptosis to exert antitumor effects in HCT116 and SW480 CRC cells by modulating Nrf2 signaling, providing a potential therapeutic approach for the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Molecular Networking, Network Pharmacology, and Molecular Docking Approaches Employed to Investigate the Changes in Ephedrae Herba before and after Honey-Processing

Raw Ephedrae herba (REH) and honey-processed Ephedrae herba (HEH) were the different decoction pieces of Ephedrae herba (EH). Honey-processing that changes REH into HEH has been shown to relieve cough and asthma to a synergistic extent. However, the chemical markers and the synergistic mechanism of HEH need to be further studied. In this study, the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and molecular networking (MN) were used to investigate the chemical composition of REH and HEH, which led to the identification of 92 compounds. A total of 38 differential chemical markers for REH and HEH were identified using principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). Network pharmacology suggests that the synergistic effect of HEH in relieving cough and asthma may be due to 31 differential chemical markers acting through 111 biological targets. Among them, four compounds and two targets probably played an important role based on the results of molecular docking. This study enriched our knowledge about the chemical composition of REH and HEH, as well as the synergistic mechanism of HEH.

Mechanism of Peitu Shengjin Formula Shenlingbaizhu Powder in Treating Bronchial Asthma and Allergic Colitis through Different Diseases with Simultaneous Treatment Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

BACKGROUND

Shenlingbaizhu powder (SLBZP), one of the classic Earth-cultivating and gold-generating prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used to treat various diseases. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of SLBZP on bronchial asthma (BA) and allergic colitis (AC) remain to be elucidated.

METHODS

Network pharmacology and molecular docking technology were used to explore the potential mechanism of SLBZP in treating BA and AC with the simultaneous treatment of different diseases. The potential active compounds of SLBZP and their corresponding targets were obtained from BATMAN-TCM, ETCM, SymMap TCM@TAIWAN, and TCMSP databases. BA and AC disease targets were collected through DisGeNET, TTD, GeneCards, PharmGKB, OMIM, NCBI, The Human Phenotype Ontology, and DrugBank databases. Common targets for drugs and diseases were screened by using the bioinformatics and evolutionary genomics platform. The analyses and visualizations of Gene Ontology (GO) function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment of common targets were carried out by R software. The key targets were screened by using the plug-in "cytoHubba" of Cytoscape software, and the "active compound-key target" network was constructed. Molecular docking analysis was performed using AutoDock software. The miRTarBase database was used to predict microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting key targets, and the key target-miRNA network was constructed.

RESULT

Through screening, 246 active compounds and 281 corresponding targets were obtained. Common targets were mainly enriched in 2933 biological processes and 182 signal pathways to play the role of treating BA and AC. There were 131 active compounds related to key targets. The results of molecular docking showed that the important active compounds in SLBZP had good binding ability with the key targets. The key target-miRNA network showed that 94 miRNAs were predicted.

CONCLUSION

SLBZP has played the role of treating different diseases with the same treatment on BA and AC through the characteristics of multicompound, multitarget, and multipathway of traditional Chinese medicine, which provides a theoretical basis for explaining the mechanism and clinical application of SLBZP treating different diseases with the same treatment in BA and AC.

6'-O-Galloylpaeoniflorin Exerts Inhibitory Bioactivities in Human Neuroblastoma Cells via Modulating AMPK/miR-489/XIAP Pathway

Although therapies against neuroblastoma (NBM) have advanced, the patients still suffer from poor prognoses due to distal metastasis or the occurrence of multidrug resistance. Accumulating evidence has proved that chemicals derived from natural products possess potent anti-NBM properties or can be used as adjuvants for chemotherapy. In the present study, we demonstrated that 6'-O-galloylpaeoniflorin (GPF), a galloylated derivative of paeoniflorin isolated from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora Pall, exerted significant inhibitory effects on proliferation and invasion of SH-SY5Y cells (an NBM cell line) and enhanced the sensitivity of SH-SY5Y cells to cisplatin in vitro. Further studies showed that GPF treatment upregulated miR-489 in NBM cells via activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). We also demonstrated that similar to GPF treatment, miR-489 exhibited a significant anti-NBM capacity. Further studies showed that miR-489 directly targeted the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP). Overall, our results indicated that GPF possessed an evident anti-NBM capacity dependent on AMPK/miR-489/XIAP pathway, providing an emerging strategy for clinical treatment of NBM.

Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Anticancer Decoction Combined with Basic Chemotherapy and Nursing Intervention on Oral Cancer Patients after Surgery and Its Effect on Tumor Markers and Immune Function

Objective

To prospectively study the application effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) anticancer decoction with basic chemotherapy and nursing intervention on oral cancer patients after surgery and the effect on tumor markers and immune function.

Methods

Eighty-four postoperative oral cancer patients in our hospital from May 2017 to February 2019 were selected and divided into observation group (42 cases) and control group (42 cases). The control group was treated with basic chemotherapy combined with basic nursing care, and the observation group was treated with TCM anticancer decoction and comprehensive nursing intervention on the basis of the control group. The clinical efficacy, the occurrence of adverse reactions, the satisfaction of nursing care, and the two-year cumulative survival rate of the two groups were compared. The immune function, tumor marker level, VAS score, QoR40 score, and survival quality score of the two groups were compared before and after nursing care.

Results

The total clinical treatment efficiency of the observation group (88.10%) was significantly higher than that of the control group (69.05%), and the differences between the two groups in oral cleanliness, aspiration frequency, and oral comfort were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The differences in the occurrence of halitosis, oral fungal infection, leukopenia, gastrointestinal reaction, and fever in the observation group were statistically significant compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The nursing satisfaction rate in the observation group (95.24%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (78.57%). The two-year cumulative survival rate of the observation group (92.86%) was significantly higher than that of the control group (73.81%). After nursing care, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+, VAS scores, QoR40 scores, and quality of survival scores in both groups all increased, and CD8+, CD56+, CEA level, NSE level, and CA19-9 level all decreased (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The clinical efficacy of TCM anticancer decoction with basic chemotherapy and nursing interventions in the treatment of postoperative oral cancer patients was remarkable, which could significantly improve patients' oral cleanliness and comfort, reduce the frequency of sputum aspiration, improve patients' immunity, reduce tumor marker levels, inhibit tumor activity, improve patients' nursing satisfaction, further improve patients' treatment compliance, reduce patients' pain level, improve patients' survival quality, and prolong patients' survival time with high safety. It could be used as a theoretical basis for subsequent clinical research.

Bixin Prevents Colorectal Cancer Development through AMPK-Activated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

Chemicals isolated from natural products have been broadly applied in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Bixin, an apocarotenoid from the seeds of Bixa orellana, exerts multiple pharmacological properties, including neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and antitumor effects; yet, the therapeutic effects of Bixin on CRC are still unknown. Here, we described that Bixin treatment significantly inhibited the proliferation and motility of two CRC cell lines (CaCO2 and SW480) in vitro and in vivo. In addition, Bixin administration has sensitized CRC cells to TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand- (TRAIL-) induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, we showed that Bixin treatment initiated the activation of PERK/eIF-2α signal in CaCO2 and SW480 cells, leading to endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated apoptosis. Pharmacological inhibition of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) abrogated the Bixin-induced activation of protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)/eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF-2α) pathway, as well as reversed the inhibitory effects of Bixin on CRC development. In conclusion, this study indicated that Bixin treatment inhibits the progression of CRC through activating the AMPK/PERK/eIF-2α pathway, providing a novel potential strategy for clinical prevention of CRC.

A natural compound hyperoside targets Salmonella Typhimurium T3SS needle protein InvG

The antimicrobial actions of natural compounds derived from medicinal plants have been well documented. However, their detailed mechanism underlying the action against microorganisms remains largely unexplored. Salmonella enterica is a...