Protective effects of sea buckthorn polysaccharide extracts against LPS/d-GalN-induced acute liver failure in mice via suppressing TLR4-NF-κB signaling

Seabuckthorn polysaccharide alleviates renal fibrosis in a mouse model of diabetic nephropathy via p311/TGFβ1/Fstl1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a primary microvascular complication of diabetes with characteristics of renal fibrosis. Seabuckthorn polysaccharide (SP) is an extract from Seabuckthron berries (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) with antioxidant, anti-fatigue, anti-inflammation, and hepatoprotective properties. This current work aimed to investigate the effect of SP on DN-induced kidney fibrosis.

METHODS

STZ-induced DN mouse model was constructed by intraperitoneally injecting 50 mg/kg STZ for five days. Various doses of SP were orally administered to mice. Biochemical analysis was performed to measure blood biochemical parameters. Masson's trichrome staining of renal tissues was conducted to analyze fibrotic area. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to assess E-cadherin and α-SMA expressions in kidney samples. Serum MMP2 level was evaluated by corresponding ELISA kit, and Timp2 level was subjected to RT-qPCR analysis. PCR and western blot were conducted to quantify p311, TGFβ1, and Fstl1 levels in renal samples.

RESULTS

SP reversed the changes in body weight, fasting blood glucose and renal function indicators in diabetic mice. SP lessened renal fibrotic areas in diabetic mice and inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by increasing E-cadherin level and reducing α-SMA expression. Fibrotic genes MMP2 and TIMP2 were highly expressed in mice with DN, and their dysregulated expressions were reversed by SP administration. Additionally, SP suppressed the activation of p311/TGFβ1/Fstl1 signaling pathway in renal tissues of diabetic mice.

CONCLUSIONS

SP alleviates diabetic nephropathy by improving renal functions, alleviating renal fibrosis, and hampering EMT process via downregulation of fibrotic genes and inactivation of the p311/TGFβ1/Fstl1 pathway.

The major roles of intestinal microbiota and TRAF6/NF-κB signaling pathway in acute intestinal inflammation in mice, and the improvement effect by Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide

Acute enteritis, an intestinal disease with intestinal inflammation and injury as the main pathological manifestations. Inhibiting the inflammatory response is critical to the treatment of acute enteritis. Previous studies have shown that the Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide (HRP) has strong immune-enhancing effects. However, their functions regarding the intestines and the underlying mechanism are still unclear. In this study, the role of HRP in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute enteritis in mice and its related mechanisms are discussed from two aspects: intestinal inflammation and intestinal microbiota. Kunming mice were inoculated with LPS to establish animal models of acute enteritis. The results showed that HRP attenuated the histological damage and maintained the intestine mucosal barrier via up-regulating the expression of occludin, claudin-1, and zona occludens-1 (ZO-1), and suppressing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)). The relative mRNA and protein levels of nuclear factor-kappa B p65 (NF-κBp65) and tumor necrosis factor-receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) in the intestine tissues of LPS-induced acute enteritis mice significantly increased, whereas these adverse changes were alleviated in the HRP intervention groups. Notably, HRP may regulate the expression of the TRAF6/NF-κB signaling pathway by affecting the diversity of the intestinal microbiota. Microbiota analysis showed that HRP promoted the proliferation of beneficial bacteria, including Clostridia_UCG-014, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Bacteroidota, Deferribacterota, and reduced the abundance of Atopostipes, Corynebacterium, Actinobacteriota, and Desulfobacterota. The studies conformed that the gut microbiota is crucial in HRP-mediated immunity regulation. HRP shows great potential as an immune enhancer and a natural medicine for treating intestinal inflammatory diseases.

Seabuckthorn polysaccharides mitigate hepatic steatosis by modulating the Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway and gut microbiota

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming a significant global public health threat. Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The hypolipidemic effects of Seabuckthorn polysaccharides (SP) against high-fat diets (HFD)-induced NAFLD were systematically explored and compared with that of Bifidobacterium lactis V9 (B. Lactis V9). Results showed that HFD-induced alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels decreased by 2.8-fold and 4.5-fold, respectively, after SP supplementation. Moreover, the alleviating effect on hepatic lipid accumulation is better than that of B. Lactis V9. The ACC and FASN mRNA levels were significantly reduced by 1.8 fold (P < 0.05) and 2.3 folds (P < 0.05), respectively, while the CPT1α and PPARα mRNA levels was significantly increased by 2.3 fold (P < 0.05) and 1.6 fold (P < 0.05), respectively, after SP administration. SP activated phosphorylated-AMPK and inhibited PPARγ protein expression, improved serum oxidative stress and inflammation (P < 0.05). SP supplementation leads to increased hepatic expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and Superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD-2). Furthermore, SP treatment improved HFD-induced intestinal dysbiosis. Lentisphaerae, Firmicutes, Tenericutes and Peptococcus sp., RC9_gut_group sp., and Parabacteroides sp. of the gut microbiota were significantly associated with hepatic steatosis and indicators related to oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, SP can mitigate hepatic lipid accumulation by regulating Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathways and gut microbiota. This study offers new evidence supporting the use of SP as a prebiotic treatment for NAFLD.

Advance in Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharides: Extraction, structural characteristics, pharmacological activity, structure-activity relationship and application

Hippophae rhamnoides (Sea buckthorn) is an excellent medicinal and edible plant owing to its high nutritional and health-promoting properties. As an important bioactive component, H. rhamnoides polysaccharides (HRPs) have aroused wide attention due to their various pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotective, immuno-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, anti-obesity, and so on. Nevertheless, the development and utilization of HRP-derived functional food and medicines are constrained to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the structure-activity relationship, application, and safety of HRPs. This review systematically summarizes the advancements on the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, pharmacological activities and mechanisms of HRPs. The structure-activity relationship, safety evaluation, application, as well as the shortcomings of current research and promising prospects are also highlighted. This article aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of HRPs and lay a groundwork for future research and utilization of HRPs as multifunctional biomaterials and therapeutic agents.

Medicinal and edible polysaccharides from ancient plants: extraction, isolation, purification, structure, biological activity and market trends of sea buckthorn polysaccharides

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae L.), a well-known medicinal and edible plant, is known as the "king of VC". Due to its excellent medicinal and nutritional value, it has been developed into a variety of functional products. Sea buckthorn polysaccharides (SPs), one of the important and representative active components, have attracted the attention of researchers in the fields of health food and medicine because of their potential beneficial effects on human health. Recently, SPs have shown various biological activities in in vitro and in vivo studies, such as anti-obesity, immunomodulatory, anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and hepatoprotective activities. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic summary of the extraction and purification methods, structural characterization, biological activity, and market trends of SPs to provide a theoretical basis for their therapeutic potential and sanitarian functions. A future scope is needed to further explore the medicinal and nutritional value of SPs and incorporate them in functional food products.

Sea Buckthorn Polysaccharide Ameliorates Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal inner lining, resulting in various symptoms. Sea buckthorn berries contain a bioactive compound known as sea buckthorn polysaccharide (SBP). However, the precise mechanisms underlying the impact of SBP on UC remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of pretreatment with SBP on colitis induced by DSS. Our findings demonstrate that SBP pretreatment effectively reduces inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal barrier damage associated with colitis. To further elucidate the role of SBP-modulated gut microbiota in UC, we performed fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on DSS-treated mice. The microbiota from SBP-treated mice exhibits notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improves colonic barrier integrity, and increases the abundance of beneficial bacteria, as well as enhancing SCFA production. Collectively, these results strongly indicate that SBP-mediated amelioration of colitis is attributed to its impact on the gut microbiota, particularly through the promotion of SCFA-producing bacteria and subsequent elevation of SCFA levels. This study provides compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of pre-emptive SBP supplementation in alleviating colitis symptoms by modulating the gut microbiota, thereby offering novel insights into the potential of SBP as a regulator of the gut microbiota for colitis relief.

Extraction, purification, structural characterization and pharmacological activities of polysaccharides from sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.): A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is an edible fruit with a long history in China as a medicinal plant. The fruits of H. rhamnoides are rich in a variety of nutrients and pharmacological active compounds. As one of the most important active ingredients in sea buckthorn, polysaccharides have attracted the attention of researchers due to their antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and liver protective qualities.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review summarizes recent studies on extraction, purification, structural characterization and pharmacological activities of polysaccharides from sea buckthorn. In addition, the relationship between the structure and the activities of sea buckthorn polysaccharides (SBPS) were discussed. This review would provide important research bases and up-to-date information for the future in-depth development and application of sea buckthorn polysaccharides in the field of pharmaceuticals and functional foods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

By inputting the search term "Sea buckthorn polysaccharides", relevant research information was obtained from databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, China Knowledge Network (CNKI), China Master Theses Full-text Database, and China Doctoral Dissertations Full-text Database.

RESULTS

The main extraction methods of SBPS include hot water extraction (HWE), ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), flash extraction (FE), and ethanol extraction. More than 20 polysaccharides have been isolated from sea buckthorn fruits. The chemical structures of sea buckthorn polysaccharides obtained by different extraction, isolation, and purification methods are diverse. Polysaccharides from sea buckthorn display a variety of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-fatigue, liver protection, anti-obesity, regulation of intestinal flora, immunoregulation, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Sea buckthorn has a long medicinal history and characteristics of an ethnic medicine and food. Polysaccharides are one of the main active components of sea buckthorn, and they have received increasing attention from researchers. Sea buckthorn polysaccharides have remarkable pharmacological activities, health benefits, and broad application prospects. In addition, further exploration of the chemical structure of SBPS, in-depth study of their pharmacological activities, identification of their material basis, characterization of disease resistance mechanisms, and potential health functions are still directions of future research. With the accumulation of research on the extraction and purification processes, chemical structure, pharmacological effects, molecular mechanisms, and structure-activity relationships, sea buckthorn polysaccharides derived from natural resources will ultimately make significant contributions to human health.

Extraction techniques, structural features and biological functions of Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharides: A review

Hippophae rhamnoides L. (sea buckthorn) is a type of traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of clinical application. It is used in the improvement and treatment of various diseases as medicine and food to strengthen the stomach and digestion, relieving cough and resolving phlegm, promoting blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis in traditional Chinese medicine. Emerging evidence has shown that H. rhamnoides polysaccharides (HRPs) are vital bioactive macromolecules responsible for its various health benefits. HRPs possess the huge potential to develop a drug improving or treating different diseases. In this review, we comprehensively and systematically summarize the recent information on extraction and purification methods, structural features, biological activities, structure-activity relationships, and potential industry applications of HRPs and further highlight the therapeutic potential and sanitarian functions of HRPs in the fields of therapeutic agents and functional food development. Additionally, this paper also lists a variety of biological activities of HRPs in vitro and in vivo roundly. Finally, this paper also discusses the structure-activity relationships and potential applications of HRPs. Overall, this work will help to have a better in-depth understanding of HRPs and provide a scientific basis and direct reference for more scientific and rational applications.

The Immunoregulatory and Regenerative Potential of Activated Human Stem Cell Secretome Mitigates Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure in a Rat Model

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome marked by sudden liver function decline and multiorgan failure, predominantly acute kidney injury (AKY), in patients with chronic liver disease. Unregulated inflammation is a hallmark of ACLF; however, the key drivers of ACLF are not fully understood. This study explores the therapeutic properties of human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) secretome, particularly focusing on its enhanced anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative properties after the in vitro preconditioning of the cells. We evaluated the efficacy of the systemic administration of MSC secretome in preventing liver failure and AKI in a rat ACLF model where chronic liver disease was induced using by the administration of porcine serum, followed by D-galN/LPS administration to induce acute failure. After ACLF induction, animals were treated with saline (ACLF group) or MSC-derived secretome (ACLF-secretome group). The study revealed that MSC-secretome administration strongly reduced liver histological damage in the ACLF group, which was correlated with higher hepatocyte proliferation, increased hepatic and systemic anti-inflammatory molecule levels, and reduced neutrophil and macrophage infiltration. Additionally, renal examination revealed that MSC-secretome treatment mitigated tubular injuries, reduced apoptosis, and downregulated injury markers. These improvements were linked to increased survival rates in the ACLF-secretome group, endorsing MSC secretomes as a promising therapy for multiorgan failure in ACLF.

Malvidin promotes PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling to attenuate the inflammatory response and restore mitochondrial activity in septic acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in sepsis is a vital and dangerous organ failure caused by an infection-induced dysregulation of the host reaction. Malvidin possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactivities. This study explored the critical roles of malvidin in sepsis AKI and the crosstalk among mitochondrial function, nucleotide-binding oligomerization-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and nuclear factor erythroid 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. First, C57BL/6 mice were administered lipopolysaccharide intraperitoneally for 6 h to create an AKI model of sepsis. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and serum biomarker assays showed that malvidin protected from AKI in sepsis. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that malvidin was able to inhibit inflammatory cytokines and mediators. Western blot assays indicated that malvidin suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and enhanced antioxidant properties. Additionally, human renal tubular epithelial cells were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide/adenosine triphosphate to establish an NLRP3 inflammasome activation model in vitro, and in line with findings in vivo, malvidin significantly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, our data indicate that malvidin restored mitochondrial quality and function, reduced reactive oxygen species production, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, enhanced mitochondrial DNA copy number, and promoted peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) nuclear translocation. Moreover, inhibitor blockade assays indicated that both PGC-1α and Nrf2 affected the inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome by malvidin. Finally, immunoprecipitation assays showed that malvidin promoted PGC-1α and Nrf2 interactions. Overall, malvidin alleviated lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis AKI, improved mitochondrial function and mitochondrial biogenesis, and inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome through the PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling pathway, suggesting that malvidin might translate into clinical applications for sepsis AKI therapy.

Research progress on rodent models and its mechanisms of liver injury

The liver is the most important organ for biological transformation in the body and is crucial for maintaining the body's vital activities. Liver injury is a serious pathological condition that is commonly found in many liver diseases. It has a high incidence rate, is difficult to cure, and is prone to recurrence. Liver injury can cause serious harm to the body, ranging from mild to severe fatty liver disease. If the condition continues to worsen, it can lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, ultimately resulting in liver failure or liver cancer, which can seriously endanger human life and health. Therefore, establishing an rodent model that mimics the pathogenesis and severity of clinical liver injury is of great significance for better understanding the pathogenesis of liver injury patients and developing more effective clinical treatment methods. The author of this article summarizes common chemical liver injury models, immune liver injury models, alcoholic liver injury models, drug-induced liver injury models, and systematically elaborates on the modeling methods, mechanisms of action, pathways of action, and advantages or disadvantages of each type of model. The aim of this study is to establish reliable rodent models for researchers to use in exploring anti-liver injury and hepatoprotective drugs. By creating more accurate theoretical frameworks, we hope to provide new insights into the treatment of clinical liver injury diseases.

Bilobalide attenuates lipopolysaccharide‑induced HepG2 cell injury by inhibiting TLR4‑NF‑κB signaling via the PI3K/Akt pathway

Inflammation is involved in the pathological process underlying a number of liver diseases. Bilobalide (BB) is a natural compound from Ginkgo biloba leaves that was recently demonstrated to exert hepatoprotective effects by inhibiting oxidative stress in the liver cancer cell line HepG2. The anti-inflammatory activity of BB has been reported in recent studies. The major objective of the present study was to investigate whether BB could attenuate inflammation-associated cell damage. HepG2 cells were cultured with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and BB, and cell damage was evaluated by measuring cell viability using MTT assay. The activity of the NF-κB signaling pathway was assessed by measuring the levels of IκBα, NF-κB p65, phosphorylated (p)-IκBα, p-p65, p65 DNA-binding activity and inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. A toll-like receptor (TLR)4 inhibitor (CLI-095) was used to detect the involvement of TLR4 in cell injury caused by LPS. In addition, the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 was applied to explore the involvement of the PI3K/Akt axis in mediating the effects of BB. The results demonstrated that LPS induced HepG2 cell injury. LPS also elevated the levels of p-IκBα, p-p65, p65 DNA-binding activity and inflammatory cytokines. However, CLI-095 significantly attenuated the LPS-induced cell damage and inhibited the activation of NF-κB signaling. BB also dose-dependently attenuated the LPS-induced cell damage, activation of NF-κB signaling and TLR4 overexpression. Furthermore, it was observed that LY294002 diminished the cytoprotective effects of BB on cell injury, TLR4 expression and NF-κB activation. These findings indicated that BB could attenuate LPS-induced inflammatory injury to HepG2 cells by regulating TLR4-NF-κB signaling.

Carfilzomib Mitigates Lipopolysaccharide/D-Galactosamine/Dimethylsulfoxide-Induced Acute Liver Failure in Mice

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a disease accompanied by severe liver inflammation. No effective therapy is available yet apart from liver transplantation; therefore, developing novel treatments for ALF is urgently required. Inflammatory mediators released by NF-кB activation play an essential role in ALF. Proteasome inhibitors have many medical uses, such as reducing inflammation and NF-кB inhibition, which are believed to account for most of their repurposing effects. This study was undertaken to explore the possible protective effects and the underlying mechanisms of carfilzomib, a proteasome inhibitor, in a mouse model of ALF induced by lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine/dimethylsulfoxide (LPS/GalN/DMSO). Carfilzomib dose-dependently protected mice from LPS/GalN/DMSO-induced liver injury, as indicated by the decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. LPS/GalN/DMSO increased TNF-α, NF-кB, lipid peroxidation, NO, iNOS, cyclooxygenase-II, myeloperoxidase, and caspase-3 levels. Carfilzomib administration mitigated LPS/GalN/DMSO-induced liver damage by decreasing the elevated levels of TNF-α, NF-кB, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, iNOS, cyclooxygenase-II, myeloperoxidase, caspase-3, and histopathological changes. A restored glutathione level was also observed in the carfilzomib-treated LPS/GalN/DMSO mice. Our results demonstrate that carfilzomib protects against LPS/GalN/DMSO-induced ALF by inhibiting NF-кB, decreasing inflammatory mediators, oxidative/nitrosative stress, neutrophil recruitment, and apoptosis, suggesting that carfilzomib may be a potential therapeutic agent for ALF.

Hippophae rhamnoides reverses decreased CYP2D6 expression in rats with BCG-induced liver injury

In this study, we investigated the effect of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (HRP) on the activity of CYP2D6 via the CAMP/PKA/NF-κB pathway in rats with Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-induced immunological liver injury. BCG (125 mg/kg) was injected to establish the rat model of liver injury. HRP was administered intragastrically for one week as the intervention drug. Proteomics techniques were used to analyze protein expression levels, obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the liver injury process. ELISA or western blotting was used to detect specific protein levels. Dextromethorphan was detected using high-performance liquid chromatography to reflect the metabolic activity of CYP2D6. BCG downregulated the expression of CYP2D6, cAMP, PKA, IκB, and P-CREB and upregulated that of NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and CREB in the liver; HRP administration reversed these effects. Therefore, HRP may restore the metabolic function of the liver by reversing the downregulation of CYP2D6 through inhibition of NF-κB signal transduction and regulation of the cAMP/PKA/CREB/CYP2D6 pathway. These findings highlight the role of HRP as an alternative clinical drug for treating hepatitis B and other immune-related liver diseases.

Calycosin inhibits hepatocyte apoptosis in acute liver failure by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB pathway: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a serious liver disease that is difficult to treat owing to its unclear pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the roles and molecular mechanisms of calycosin (CA) in ALF.

METHODS

In this study, the roles and mechanism of CA in ALF were explored using an in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALF cell model. Additionally, 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to assess the effect of CA on the activity of LPS-induced L02 human liver epithelial cells, and flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis in L02 cells. Expression levels of apoptosis-related genes, Bax and Bcl-2, were measured using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Expression levels of inflammatory factors in LPS-induced L02 cells were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, the effect of CA on ALF was inhibited via transfection of a toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-plasmid to elucidate the relationship between CA and TLR4/nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway in ALF.

RESULTS

CA had no toxic effects on L02 cells, but enhanced the activity of LPS-induced L02 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Apoptosis and inflammatory factor release was increased in ALF, activating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. However, CA treatment inhibited the apoptosis and release of inflammatory factors. Further mechanistic studies revealed that the upregulation of TLR4 expression reversed the alleviating effects of CA on inflammation and apoptosis in LPS-induced L02 cells.

CONCLUSION

CA alleviates inflammatory damage in LPS-induced L02 cells by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and may be a promising therapeutic agent for ALF treatment.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction of polysaccharides from seabuckthorn fruits using response methodology, physicochemical characterization and bioactivities

BACKGROUND

Seabuckthorn fruits contains many active subtances, among them, the seabuckthorn polysaccharide is one of the main active ingredients, and exhibits diverse bioactivities. The extraction of polysaccharides from seabuckthorn fruits is the most important step for their wide applications. Ultrasound-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction (UA-ATPE) is a promising green method for extracting polysaccharides. Additionally, physicochemical characterization and antioxidant activities can evaluate the potential functions and applications in the food and medicine industries.

RESULTS

Based on the single-factor experiments, 20.70% (w/w) ammonium sulfate ((NH₄ )₂ SO₄ ) and 27.56% (w/w) ethanol were determined as the suitable composition for aqueous two-phase. The optimum conditions of UA-ATPE obtained by response surface methodology were as follows: ultrasonic power (390 W), extraction time (41 min), liquid-to-material ratio (72: 1 mL/g), and the total yield of the polysaccharides reached 34.14 ± 0.10%, The molecular weights of the purified upper-phase seabuckthorn polysaccharide (PUSP) and the purified lower-phase seabuckthorn polysaccharide (PLSP) were 65 525 and 26 776 Da, respectively. PUSP and PLSP contained the same six monosaccharides (galacturonic acid, rhamnose, xylose, mannose, glucose and galactose), but with different molar ratios. Furthermore, PUSP and PLSP displayed certain viscoelastic property, had no triple helical structure, possessed different thermal stability, surface morphology and conformation in aqueous solution. PUSP and PLSP displayed strong antioxidant properties by the assays of scavenging ability of ABTS⁺ ·, the protection of DNA damage and erythrocyte hemolysis.

CONCLUSION

UA-ATPE significantly increased the yield of seabuckthorn polysaccharides. PUSP and PLSP were different in many aspects, such as molar ratio, surface shape and antioxidant activities. Seabuckthornpolysaccharides possess great potential in medicine and functional foods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide ameliorated LPS-induced growth inhibition and intestinal injury in broilers through enhancing immune-regulation and antioxidant capacity

The study investigated the effects of dietary Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide (AOP) on growth, intestinal morphology, immune responses and antioxidant capacity of broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 192 1-d-old broilers were randomly allotted to four treatments with 6 replicates (n = 8): (1) CON group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (2) LPS group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (3) AOP group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP; (4) LPS+AOP group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP. The trial included starter phase (d 1 to 14), stress period Ⅰ (d 15 to 21), convalescence Ⅰ (d 22 to 28), stress period Ⅱ (d 29 to 35) and convalescence Ⅱ (d 36 to 42). During stress period Ⅰ and Ⅱ, broilers were injected intra-abdominally either with LPS solution or with equal sterile saline. The results showed that AOP alleviated LPS-induced growth inhibition by prompting protein digestibility, and decreasing serum stress hormones and pro-inflammatory cytokines content of broilers. Moreover, AOP decreased LPS-induced over-production of IL-1β and IL-6 through suppressing TLR4/NF-κB pathway, and alleviated LPS-induced decreasing of T-AOC, CAT and GPx activities by activating Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, which ultimately improved jejunum morphology. In conclusion, AOP alleviated LPS-induced growth inhibition and intestinal damage by enhancing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of broilers.

Sea buckthorn polysaccharide ameliorates high-fat diet induced mice neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction via regulating gut dysbiosis

Currently, definitive treatment for neurodegenerative diseases without side effects has not been developed, therefore, exploring natural polysaccharides with neuroprotection to prevent the occurrences and progressions of cognitive dysfunctions has important significance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of sea buckthorn polysaccharide (SBP) on high-fat diet (HFD) induced mice cognitive dysfunctions and attempted to explore its biological mechanisms. Behavior tests (Y-maze and Barnes maze) suggested that SBP effectively alleviated the HFD induced behavioral disorders, which was in accordance with the inhibition of neuroinflammation via suppressing the NF-κB pathway and amelioration of synaptic dysfunction via upregulating CREB/BDNF/TrkB pathway in mice brain. Furthermore, SBP alleviated the gut barrier impairment, inflammatory responses, and lipopolysaccharide invasion into blood circulation via regulating the gut microbiome structure, especially correcting the reduction of Ileibacterium and increase of Lactobacillus, Dubosiella, Olsenella, Helicobacter, and Ruminiclostridium_9 in HFD mice. Therefore, the reversal effects of SBP on gut dysbiosis might be the important reason for its positive effects on cognitive dysfunction induced by HFD in mice.

Protective activity of purpurin against d-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatorenal injury by upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 in the RBC degradation cycle

Acute liver failure, associated with oxidative stress and sustained inflammation is the major clinical manifestation of liver diseases with a high mortality rate due to limited therapeutic options. Purpurin is a bioactive compound of Rubia cordifolia that has been used in textile staining, as a food additive, and as a treatment of multiple chronic and metabolic diseases associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. The present work aimed to investigate the protective efficacy of purpurin against hepatorenal damage. Thirty-six female albino rats were equally assigned into six groups. Purpurin was administered orally once a day for 6 days at doses of 05, 10, and 20 mg/kg, respectively. Intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (50 μg/kg) was administered to the animals on 6th day evening, 1 h after d-galactosamine (300 mg/kg) administration to induce hepatorenal injury. The results revealed that purpurin alleviated alterations in serological and hematological parameters as well as restored histoarchitectural and cellular integrity of the liver and kidney. Purpurin restored superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione content in hepatorenal tissues. Accompanied by the diminution of increased bilirubin and biliverdin, purpurin also diminished total cholesterol, triglyceride, and lipid peroxidation in hepatorenal tissues. Purpurin markedly attenuated the elevation of CYP2E1, restored glutathione-S-transferase, and prevented DNA damage in hepatorenal tissues. Purpurin reduced iron overload by reducing heme depletion and recycling of ferritin and hemosiderin. It also reinforced biliverdin reductase, heme oxygenase-1 to employ hepatorenal protection by regulating antioxidant enzymes and other pathways that produced NADPH. Thus, it may be concluded that purpurin has protective potential against acute hepatorenal injury.

Seabuckthorn polysaccharide combined with astragalus polysaccharide ameliorate alcoholic fatty liver by regulating intestinal flora

Background

At present, the incidence of alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is increasing year by year, and numerous studies have confirmed that liver diseases are closely related to intestinal flora. Seabuckthorn and Astragalus membranaceus, as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with the homology of medicine and food, have good liver protection, and their polysaccharides can regulate the intestinal flora. Here, we studied the effects of HRP, APS and the combination of the two polysaccharides on the intestinal flora of AFLD mice, which provided scientific basis for the treatment of AFLD with the two polysaccharides.

Materials and methods

Thirty Kunming (KM) mice were randomly divided into the control group (Con), the model group (Mod), the HRP treatment group (HRP), the APS treatment group (APS), and HRP+APS treatment group (HRP+APS), with six mice in each group. The AFLD model was constructed by continuous intragastric administration of 42% vol Niulanshan ethanol solution for 28 days, and the mice in each polysaccharide group were given corresponding drugs. The levels of AST, ALT, TC and TG in serum of mice were measured. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing technique was used to determine the diversity and richness of intestinal flora, and the relative abundance of intestinal flora at phylum level and genus level of the mice in each group.

Results

HRP, APS and HRP+APS could reduce the serum levels of AST, ALT, TC and TG in mice. In addition, HRP, APS and HRP + APS restored the diversity, relative abundance and community structure of intestinal mucosa bacteria in AFLD mice to a certain extent. Specifically, HRP, APS and HRP+APS remarkably decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, and ultimately increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and reduced the abundance of pathogenic bacteria.

Conclusion

HRP, APS, and HRP+APS can improve the intestinal microecology of AFLD model mice, alleviate liver injury, and maintain normal intestinal function in different degrees.

Red Palm Oil Ameliorates Oxidative Challenge and Inflammatory Responses Associated with Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Hepatic Injury by Modulating NF-κβ and Nrf2/GCL/HO-1 Signaling Pathways in Rats

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a well-conserved cell wall component of Gram positive bacteria, exerts its toxic effects via inducing oxidative and pro-inflammatory responses. Red palm oil (RPO) is a unique natural product with a balanced ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, with reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we assess the protective effect and mechanistic action of RPO using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatic injury model. Male Wistar rats were assigned into four groups (10 animals/group): normal control (NC), RPO, LPS and RPO + LPS. Animals in the RPO and RPO + LPS groups were administered RPO (200 μL/day) for 28 days. On the 27th day of experiment, animals in LPS and RPO + LPS groups were injected with LPS (0.5 mg/kg body weight). Animals were sacrificed 24 h later, and blood and liver tissues harvested for biochemical and molecular analysis. RPO resolved hepatic histological dysfunction induced by LPS, and lowered alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase activities in the serum. Hepatic malondialdehyde and conjugated dienes, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and TNFα were significantly diminished (p < 0.05) by RPO pre-treatment. Activity of hepatic antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, as well as glutathione redox status (GSH:GSSG), and markers of antioxidant capacity that decreased as a result of LPS injection were improved by RPO pre-treatment. Mechanistically, RPO up-regulated mRNA expression of redox sensitive transcription factor Nrf2 and its downstream targets GCL and HO-1, while also suppressing the expression of NFκβ and associated inflammatory protein, Iκβ kinase (IκKβ). In conclusion, this study highlights the ameliorating effects of RPO against LPS-induced hepatic injury and revealed the Nrf2/GCL/HO-1 and NFκβ signaling axis as potential contributing mechanisms.

Research on the Mechanism of HRP Relieving IPEC-J2 Cells Immunological Stress Based on Transcriptome Sequencing Analysis

Early weaning increased the economic benefits of piglets. However, early weaning damages the intestinal barrier of piglets and causes immunological stress. The mechanism by which Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide (HRP) alleviates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) inflammatory damage was investigated using proteomics in our previous studies. In this study we employed RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) to determine the level and function of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and further explore the mechanism of the HRP anti-inflammatory and immune process. The differential expression analysis indicated that 3622, 1216, and 2100 DEGs in the IPEC-J2 cells were identified in C vs. L, L vs. H6-L, and C vs. H6-L, respectively. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis foundsix identified pathways related to the immune system. Additionally, we used the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program to categorize the 3,134 DEGs that were differentially expressed in H2-L, H4-L and H6-L into eight possible expression profiles, in which 612 were clustered into two profiles. The accuracy and consistency of RNA-seq data were validated by the results of qRT-PCR of the nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells 2 (NFKB2), MAP kinase interacting serine/threonine kinase 2 (MKNK2), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MAP2K1), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 8 (MAP3K8), Ras-related protein R-Ras (RRAS), TNF receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1), NF-kappa-B inhibitor alpha (NFKBIA), interleukin 8 (IL8), tumor necrosis factor, alpha-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3), and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFB1). Transcriptome sequencing also indicated that HRP reduced the expression levels of related DEGs and inhibited the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that the application of HRP in piglet diets during the early weaning period can improve intestinal epithelial function and integrity, and relieve intestinal damage, and improve piglet health.

Astragalus mongholicus polysaccharides ameliorate hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammation as well as modulate gut microbiota in NAFLD rats

Hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation and gut microbiota dysbiosis are hallmarks of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is the leading cause of chronic liver disease with no therapeutic consensus. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the mechanism of the effects of Astragalus mongholicus polysaccharides (mAPS) on lipid metabolism, inflammation and gut microbiota in a rat model of NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Our results showed that mAPS and Berberine supplementation reduced HFD-induced increases in body weight, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and these changes were accompanied by improved histological changes in the liver. Moreover, administration of mAPS and Berberine resulted in lower levels of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) but higher levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) in HFD-fed rats. mAPS and Berberine treatment markedly reduced HFD-induced hepatic lipid accumulation, which was associated with increased expression of phosphorylated- adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) but decreased expression of sterol-regulatory element binding proteins (SREBP-1). Pretreatment with mAPS or Berberine reduced HFD-induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). In addition, mAPS downregulated the expression of colonic and hepatic Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) as well as phosphorylated- nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat-containing receptor, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) but upregulated the expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin in HFD-fed rats. Notably, mAPS treatment reshaped the intestinal microbiome by lowering the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio and increasing the abundance of Proteobacteria and Epsilonbacteria. mAPS supplementation had little effect on the profile of fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), but it significantly decreased the expression of colonic and hepatic G-protein coupled receptor (GPR) 41 and 43. Therefore, mAPS supplementation ameliorates hepatic inflammation and lipid accumulation in NAFLD by modulating the gut microbiota and SCFA-GPR signaling pathways. The present study provides new evidence for mAPS as a natural active substance in the treatment of NAFLD.

Hepatoprotective effect and structural analysis of Hedysarum polysaccharides in vivo and in vitro

The crude Hedysarum polysaccharides (HPS: HPS-50 and HPS-80) obtained from Radix Hedysari exhibited great pharmacological activities in our previous research. This study investigated the effects of HPS on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in mice and LPS-induced injury in LO2 cells, as well as the relationship between structural characteristics and hepatoprotective activities. The in vivo results showed that compared with HPS-80, HPS-50 showed stronger hepatoprotection, which improved histopathological changes to normal levels. HPS-50 significantly decreased the levels of ALT, AST, MPO, and MDA, increased the activities of SOD, CAT, and GSH, and suppressed the LPS/D-GalN-triggered production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 (p < .05). The results in vitro showed that HPS-50-P (HPS-50-1, HPS-50-2, and HPS-50-3) purified from HPS-50 played significant protective roles against LPS-induced injury in LO2 cells by reducing cell apoptosis and relieving cell cycle arrest. HPS-50-2 restored the percentage of normal cells from 54.8% to 94.7%, and reduced the S phase cells from 59.40% to 47.05% (p < .01). By analyzing the structure of HPS-50-P, including monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, chain conformation, and surface morphology, we speculated that the best protective effect of HPS-50-2 might be attributed to its beta configuration, highest molecular weight, and high glucose and galactose contents. These findings indicate that HPS-50 might be a promising source of functional foods for the protection and prevention of ALI. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In this study, the protective effect of HPS on ALI was evaluated from multiple perspectives, and HPS-50-2 was screened as a potential active ingredient. This study has two practical applications. First, it provides a new way to improve ALI, and a new option for patients to prevent and treat ALI. Second, this work also complements the pharmacological activity of Radix Hedysari and provides a basis for the development of Radix Hedysari as a functional food.

Metabolomic Profiling Reveals Protective Effects and Mechanisms of Sea Buckthorn Sterol against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Rats

The present study was designed to examine the efficacy and protection mechanisms of sea buckthorn sterol (SBS) against acute liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in rats. Five-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into six groups and fed with saline (Group BG), 50% CCl₄ (Group MG), or bifendate 200 mg/kg (Group DDB), or treated with low-dose (Group LD), medium-dose (Group MD), or high-dose (Group HD) SBS. This study, for the first time, observed the protection of SBS against CCl₄-induced liver injury in rats and its underlying mechanisms. Investigation of enzyme activities showed that SBS-fed rats exhibited a significant alleviation of inflammatory lesions, as evidenced by the decrease in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GT). In addition, compared to the MG group, the increased indices (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and total protein (TP)) of lipid peroxidation and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues of SBS-treated groups showed the anti-lipid peroxidation effects of SBS. Using the wide range of targeted technologies and a combination of means (UPLC-MS/MS detection platform, self-built database, and multivariate statistical analysis), the addition of SBS was found to restore the expression of metabolic pathways (e.g., L-malic acid, N-acetyl-aspartic acid, N-acetyl-l-alanine, etc.) in rats, which means that the metabolic damage induced by CCl₄ was alleviated. Furthermore, transcriptomics was employed to analyze and compare gene expression levels of different groups. It showed that the expressions of genes (Cyp1a1, Noct, and TUBB6) related to liver injury were regulated by SBS. In conclusion, SBS exhibited protective effects against CCl₄-induced liver injury in rats. The liver protection mechanism of SBS is probably related to the regulation of metabolic disorders, anti-lipid peroxidation, and inhibition of the inflammatory response.

Chinese medicine in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis: Progress and future opportunities

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease occurring in individuals of all ages with a higher incidence in females and characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, elevated serum autoantibodies and histological features of interface hepatitis. AIH pathogenesis remains obscure and still needs in‐depth study, which is likely associated with genetic susceptibility and the loss of immune homeostasis. Steroids alone and in combination with other immunosuppressant agents are the primary choices of AIH treatment in the clinic, whereas, in some cases, severe adverse effects and disease relapse may occur. Chinese medicine used for the treatment of AIH has proven its merits over many years and is well tolerated. To better understand the pathogenesis of AIH and to evaluate the efficacy of novel therapies, several animal models have been generated to recapitulate the immune microenvironment of patients with AIH. In the current review, we summarize recent advances in the study of animal models for AIH and their application in pharmacological research of Chinese medicine‐based therapies and also discuss current limitations. This review aims to provide novel insights into the discovery of Chinese medicine‐originated therapies for AIH using cutting‐edge animal models.

Antioxidant and Inflammatory Effects of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Leaves

This study is aimed at identifying the bioactive components in lotus leaf flavonoid extract (LLFE) and analyzing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of LLFE in vitro and in vivo. The flavonoids in LLFE were determined by UHPLC-MS/MS. The effect of LLFE on damaged 293T cells (H2O2, 0.3 mmol/L) was determined by MTT assay, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes was measured by kits. We studied the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of LLFE on D-Gal/LPS (30 mg/kg·bw and 3 μg/kg·bw)-induced aging mice. We also evaluated the main organ index, pathological changes in the liver, lung, and kidney, liver function index, biochemical index, cytokine level, and mRNA expression level in serum and liver. The results showed that LLFE contains baicalein, kaempferol, kaempferid, quercetin, isorhamnetin, hyperoside, lespenephryl, and rutin. LLFE reduced the oxidative damage sustained by 293T cells, increased the levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px, and decreased the level of MDA. The animal studies revealed that LLFE reduced oxidative damage and inflammation in injured mice, inhibited increases in AST, ALT, MDA, and NO, increased SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px levels, upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-12, and downregulated proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Furthermore, the expression of antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory-related mRNA was consistent with the above results.

Structural characterization and intestinal protection activity of polysaccharides from Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) berries

The sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) berries are rich in various bioactive components and widely used as fruit and traditional medicine. In this study, a novel heteropolysaccharide fraction (SP0.1-1) was isolated from Sea buckthorn berries. SP0.1-1 is composed of mannose, glucose, galactose, and arabinose in the molar ratio of 1:2.3:1.9:11.2 with a core structure containing 1,4-linked-α-d-Glcp, 1,4,6-linked-α-d-Glcp and 1,4-linked-α-d-Manp residues as the backbone. And the side-chains comprised of 1,3,5-linked-α-l-Araf, 1,5-linked-α-l-Araf, terminal α-Araf and 1,4-linked-β-d-Galp. Furthermore, a diet supplemented with SP0.1-1 extended the mean lifespan, enhanced antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione peroxidase, GSH-Px; and catalase, CAT) activities, and decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced mortality rate in fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster). To summarize, the study's findings will provide evidence for the development of sea buckthorn polysaccharide products.

Isoliquiritigenin alleviates LPS/ D-GalN-induced acute liver failure by activating the PGC-1α/ Nrf2 pathway to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory response

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a dramatic liver disease characterized by large areas of inflammation. However, there are no available effective targeted drugs for ALF treatment. In the study, serum biochemical index and H&E were used to explore the amelioration of the liver histopathological changes. The oxidative stress kits, quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and siRNA were used to elucidate the mechanisms underlying isoliquiritigenin (ISL) protection. The results showed that ISL significantly improved the liver pathological changes. Furthermore, ISL reduced oxidative stress by altering the expression of PGC-1α, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, Keap1, GCLC, and GCLM in damaged hepatocytes. Moreover, the levels of inflammation-related genes including NLRP3 inflammasome, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, and Mip-2 were repressed by ISL. In addition, ISL alleviated LPS/D-GalN-induced hepatocytes apoptosis by increasing the Bcl-2/Bax ratio and suppressing the expression of cleaved caspase-3. Further in vivo and in vitro evidence proved the involvement of the PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling pathway in ISL protection. In conclusion, ISL improves the ability of anti-oxidative stress, alleviates inflammatory reaction, apoptosis, and inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome to protect lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine (LPS/D-GalN)-induced ALF through activating the PGC-1α/Nrf2 pathway, which provides the possibility for the treatment of ALF.

Artemisia ordosica Polysaccharide Alleviated Lipopolysaccharide-induced Oxidative Stress of Broilers via Nrf2/Keap1 and TLR4/NF-κB Pathway

Artemisia ordosica is one of the main shrubby perennials belonging to Artemisia species of Asteraceae and could be used in folk Chinese/Mongolian medicine to treat symptoms of various inflammatory ailments. The present study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of dietary Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide (AOP) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced oxidative stress in broilers via Nrf2/Keap1 and TLR4/NF-κB pathway. A total of 192 1-day-old Arbor Acres male broilers were randomly allotted to four treatments with 6 replicates (n = 8): (1) CON group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (2) LPS group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (3) AOP group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP; (4) LPS+AOP group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP. The trial included starter phase (d 1-14), stress period Ⅰ (d 15-21), convalescence Ⅰ (d 22-28), stress period Ⅱ (d 29-35) and convalescence Ⅱ (d 36-42). During stress period Ⅰ (on d 15, 17, 19 and 21) and stress period Ⅱ (on d 29, 31, 33 and 35), broilers were injected intra-abdominally either with LPS solution or with an equal amount of sterile saline. The results showed that dietary AOP supplementation alleviated LPS-induced reduction in antioxidant enzyme activity and excessive production of ROS, 8-OHdG and PC in serum of broilers challenged with LPS. Moreover, dietary AOP supplementation alleviated the decrease of T-AOC and activities of SOD, CAT and GPx in liver of broilers challenged with LPS by increasing expression of Nrf2, and inhibiting over-expression of Keap1 both at gene and protein level. Additionally, dietary AOP supplementation decreased the over-production of IL-1β and IL-6 in liver of broilers challenged by LPS through decreasing mRNA expression of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB P65, IL-1β and IL-6, and alleviating the increase of protein expression of TLR4, IKKβ, NF-κB P65, IL-1β, IL-6, and the decrease of protein expression of IkBα. In conclusion, dietary AOP supplementation could alleviate LPS-induced oxidative stress through Nrf2/Keap1 and TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Protective Role of 4-Octyl Itaconate in Murine LPS/D-GalN-Induced Acute Liver Failure via Inhibiting Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis

Oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis are crucial in the pathogenesis of acute liver failure (ALF). 4-Octyl itaconate (OI) showed antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties in many disease models. However, its role in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-)/D-galactosamine- (D-GalN-) induced ALF is still not investigated. Here, we established an ALF murine model induced by LPS/D-GalN administration. And we found that OI improved survival rate in the murine ALF model. Our results also showed that OI alleviated LPS/D-GalN-induced hepatic histopathological injury and reduced the serum activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase. Moreover, OI reduced serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as monocyte chemotactic protein-1, tumor necrosis factors-α, and interlukin-6. Additionally, OI mitigated oxidative stress and alleviated lipid peroxidation in a murine model of ALF. This was evaluated by a reduction of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in liver tissues. In addition, OI increased the ratio of reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione and the activities of antioxidant enzymes including catalase and superoxide dismutase. Moreover, the apoptosis of hepatocytes in the liver was inhibited by OI. Furthermore, we found that OI inhibited LPS-induced nuclear translocation and activation of factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 in macrophages which could be inhibited by OI-induced activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) signaling. Additionally, D-GalN-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and apoptosis in hepatocytes were inhibited by OI-induced activation of Nrf2 signaling. Therefore, the underlying mechanism for OI's protective effect in LPS/D-GalN-induced ALF may be associated with deactivation of NF-κB signaling in macrophages to reduce inflammation and inhibition of ROS-related hepatocyte apoptosis by activating Nrf2. In conclusion, OI showed a protective role in LPS/D-GalN-induced ALF by reducing inflammation, enhancing antioxidant capacity, and inhibiting cell apoptosis.

Bioactive compounds, health benefits and functional food products of sea buckthorn: a review

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), which has been categorized as a "medicine food homology" fruit by China's National Health Commission for both nutritional and medicinal purposes, has nearly 200 kinds of nutritive and bioactive compounds such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, sugar alcohols, superoxide dismutase and phytosterols. Significant bioactivity, including cardiovascular improvement, antidiabetic and anti-obesity activity, have highlighted the application of sea buckthorn. This review compiled a database of the phytochemical compounds in sea buckthorn, which contains the contents of 106 nutrients and 74 bioactive compounds. The health benefits of sea buckthorn and its extracts were summarized and the mechanism of anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation were introduced in detail. Seventeen common marketed products of sea buckthorn from 8 countries were collected. A future scope is really needed to explore the mechanism of sea buckthorn bioactive compounds along with the incorporation cost-effective functional food products.

Gallic Acid Protects from Acute Multiorgan Injury Induced by Lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine

BACKGROUND

Secondary metabolites of plants, the polyphenols, play a vital role in protection from many health problems in human beings. Structurally favored phytochemicals may be studied to protect multiorgan injury. At pharmacological doses, gallic acid is nontoxic to mammals and is generally absorbed in the intestine.

AIMS

In this present study, gallic acid was evaluated for its protective efficacy against Lipo Polysaccharide (LPS) and d-Galactosamine (D-GalN) induced multiorgan injury, i.e., liver, kidney and brain.

METHODS

Three different doses of gallic acid (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg p.o.) were administered to the experimental animals for 6 consecutive days, followed by exposure to LPS (50 μg/kg I.P.) and D-GalN (300 mg/kg I.P.) on the 6th day.

RESULTS

Exposure to LPS and D-GalN resulted in increased oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines. Altered hematology and serology due to LPS and D-GalN were restored towards control by gallic acid. Declined antioxidants such as reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase due to injurious effects of LPS and D-GalN were rejuvenated by gallic acid.

DISCUSSION

Exposure to LPS and D-GalN severely increased lipid peroxidation, CYP2E1 activity and tissue lipids while lowered protein content. Gallic acid restored all these parameters towards control in dose dependent manner and 20 mg/kg dose provided the best protection. Histological study showed improved histoarchitecture of liver, kidney and brain that supported biochemical endpoints.

CONCLUSION

Gallic acid minimized oxidative stress and provided best protection at 20 mg/kg dose against LPS and D-GalN induced multi organ acute injury.

Lactobacillus plantarum KSFY06 Prevents Inflammatory Response and Oxidative Stress in Acute Liver Injury Induced by D-Gal/LPS in Mice

AIM

The purpose of this study is to investigate the preventive effect of Lactobacillus plantarum KSFY06 (LP-KSFY06) on D-galactose/lipopolysaccharide (D-Gal/LPS)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in mice.

METHODS

We evaluated the antioxidant capacity of LP-KSFY06 in vitro, detailed the effects of LP-KSFY06 on the organ index, liver function index, biochemical index, cytokines, and related genes, and noted the accompanying pathological changes.

RESULTS

The results clearly showed that LP-KSFY06 can remove 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline -6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) free radicals in vitro. The analysis of the organ index and pathology demonstrated that LP-KSFY06 significantly prevented ALI. Biochemical and molecular biological analysis showed that LP-KSFY06 prevented a decrease in the antioxidant-related levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and also prevented an increase in aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. LP-KSFY06 upregulated the anti-inflammatory factor interleukin (IL)-10 and downregulated the pro-inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). These oxidative and inflammatory indicators were consistent with the results of gene detections. Furthermore, we determined that LP-KSFY06 downregulated Keap1, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), caspase-1, nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), IL-18, and mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14 or p38), upregulated Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 (NQO1), B-cell inhibitor-α (IκB-α), and thioredoxin (Trx) mRNA expression. These may be related to the regulation of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) and NLRP3/NF-κB pathways.

CONCLUSION

LP-KSFY06 is an effective multifunctional Lactobacillus with strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory ability that can prevent D-gal/LPS-induced ALI in mice and assist in maintaining health.

Involvement of NF-κB in the reversal of CYP3A down-regulation induced by sea buckthorn in BCG-induced rats

Previous studies reported that sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L., Elaeagnaceae, HRP) exhibits hepatoprotective effects via its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as its inhibitory effects on collagen synthesis. However, it is unclear whether this hepatoprotective effect is also achieved by regulating liver drug metabolism enzyme pathways. Herein, we examined the regulatory effect of HRP on cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) in rats with immune liver injury, and explored the molecular mechanism of its hepatoprotective effect. Rat models of immunological liver injury were induced by intravenous injections of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG; 125 mg kg-1; 2 wks). Specific protein levels were detected by ELISA or western blot, and CYP3A mRNA expression was detected by RT-PCR. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) detected relative changes in CYP3A metabolic activity based on the rates of 1-hydroxylation of the probe drug midazolam (MDZ). BCG pretreatment (125 mg kg-1) significantly down-regulated liver CYP3A protein expression compared with the control, metabolic activity, and transcription levels while up-regulating liver NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α and iNOS. HRP intervention (ED50: 78 mg kg-1) moderately reversed NF-κB, inflammatory cytokines, and iNOS activation in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), and suppressed CYP3A down-regulation (P < 0.05); thereby partially alleviating liver injury. During immune liver injury, HRP may reverse CYP3A down-regulation by inhibiting NF-κB signal transduction, and protect liver function, which involves regulation of enzymes transcriptionally, translationally and post-translationally. The discovery that NF-κB is a molecular target of HRP may initiate the development and optimization of a clinical therapeutic approach to mitigate hepatitis B and other immunity-related liver diseases.

Proteomic analysis reveals the molecular mechanism of Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide intervention in LPS-induced inflammation of IPEC-J2 cells in piglets

Early weaning can cause intestinal disorders and dysfunction in piglets, and may induce intestinal diseases. Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide (HRP) has anti-inflammatory and immune promotion function. However, few studies have explored the change of differentially protein expression by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced porcine intestinal epithelial cell (IPEC-J2) after HRP pre-treatment. In this study, proteomic analysis was used to explore the essential proteins and immune-related pathways that can be regulated by LPS-induced IPEC-J2 cells after HRP pre-treatment. The results indicate that by searching the Sus scrofa database, a total of 18,768 proteins was identified. Among recognized proteins, there are 2052 (1720 up-regulated and 332 down-regulated), 358 (262 up-regulated and 96 down-regulated) and1532 (314 up-regulated and 1218 down-regulated) proteins expressed differently in C vs. L, C vs. H6-L and L vs. H6-L, respectively. The Cluster of Orthologous Groups (COG) analysis divided the identified proteins into 23 categories. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that cellular process, cell, cell part, organelle and binding were the most enriched pathways for differentially expressed proteins. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the top 20 pathways in the L-vs-H6-L group related to immunity were the Tight junction, MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, rap1 signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway and Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis. Moreover, we also found 42 key proteins related to these immune pathways in this study. Additionally, western blotting analyses confirmed that LPS reduced the levels of claudin2 (CLDN2), insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) and increased phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase 7 (MAPK7), phosphorylated transcription factor p65 (RELA), phosphorylated nuclear factor NF-kappa-B p105 subunit (NF-κB1) and phosphorylated nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells 2 (NF-κB2). Pre-treatment with HRP increased the levels of CLDN2, IGF2 and reduced the levels of the phosphorylated MAPK7, phosphorylated RELA, phosphorylated NF-κB1 and phosphorylated NF-κB2 in cells. These results also showed that HRP alleviated LPS-induced inflammation in IPEC-J2 cells by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and its related differentially expressed proteins.

Sulforaphane protects against skeletal muscle dysfunction in spontaneous type 2 diabetic db/db mice

AIMS

Skeletal muscle diseases have become to be the most common complication in patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM). However, the effective therapies against skeletal muscle diseases are not yet available. Sulforaphane (SFN) is an organic isothiocyanate found in cruciferous plants. Our aim was to explore whether SFN could attenuate the skeletal muscle diseases in spontaneous type 2 diabetic db/db mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The db/m and littermate db/db mice were treated with SFN or dimethyl sulfoxide. The grip strength of mice was measured by a grasping forcing machine. The electron transmission microscopy was used to perform the skeletal muscle. The western blot was used to detect the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signal pathway related proteins, and inflammatory and apoptotic associated proteins. The mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative relative genes were detected by RT-QPCR.

KEY FINDINGS

We found that SFN could significantly increase the grip strength of the db/db mice. The lean mass and gastrocnemius mass were increased in the db/db mice after administration with SFN. Additionally, the db/db mice restored the skeletal muscle fiber organization after SFN treatment. Mechanistically, SFN could activate the Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway, and downregulate the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic associated proteins. Furthermore, SFN could also regulate the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative related genes.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results demonstrated that SFN can protect against skeletal muscle diseases in db/db type 2 diabetic mice and provide a potential drug to prevent skeletal muscle dysfunction in T2DM patients.

Chemical characteristics and cytoprotective activities of polysaccharide fractions from Athyrium Multidentatum (Doll.) Ching

Five polysaccharide fractions (PS-1, PS-2, PS-3, PS-4 and PS-5) were successfully isolated from Athyrium Multidentatum (Doll.) Ching by anion-exchange column chromatography. Their in vitro cytoprotective activities and the underlying mechanisms were explored in this paper. Chemical analysis suggested that the five polysaccharide fractions were heteropolysaccharides with different molecular weights and monosaccharide compositions. Treatment with these polysaccharide fractions could increase cell viabilities, superoxide dismutase/catalase activities, nitric oxide contents, mitochondrial membrane potential levels and Bcl-2/Bax ratios, and reduce cell apoptosis, intracellular reactive oxygen species production and malondialdehyde contents in H2O2-damaged cells. Moreover, these polysaccharide fractions enhanced the mRNA expression levels of PI3K, Akt, FOXO3a, Nrf2 and HO-1 and PS-4 exhibited the most powerful effects on the mRNA expression of these genes. Current findings suggested that the polysaccharide fractions decreased H2O2-induced apoptosis of HUVECs. The activation of PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways might be involved in the protective mechanisms of the active fractions. The polysaccharides might be one of the key bioactive ingredients of Athyrium Multidentatum (Doll.) Ching for the treatment of oxidative damage.

Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide enhances antioxidant enzyme activity, cytokine level, and related mRNA expression in intestinal porcine epithelial cells

Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide (HRP) has antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions. It has been reported that HRP can reduce the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of HRP on immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity in intestinal porcine jejunum epithelial (IPEC-J2) cells. Effective conditions of HRP (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 μg mL−1) were evaluated by pretreatment of IPEC-J2 cells for 24 h. The results showed that pretreatment with 0–600 μg mL−1 of HRP enhanced cell survival rate, while more than 600 μg mL−1 posed a threat to IPEC-J2 cell viability and lowered cell survival rate (p < 0.05). In addition, results revealed that, compared with the control group, the treatment of IPEC-J2 cells with 200–600 μg mL−1 of HRP for 24 h decreased ROS, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl levels, and cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumour necrosis factor-alpha were elevated, and enhanced relative mRNA levels were also shown in the IPEC-J2 cells. Both the contents of immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin A, and immunoglobulin G elevated with the increases of HRP concentration (200, 400, and 600 μg mL−1), and an increase of catalase relative mRNA levels were also observed in IPEC-J2 cells. Data indicated that 600 μg mL−1 of HRP had a potent protective effect on IPEC-J2 cells. Taken together, these results suggested that HRP was effective in regulating intestinal epithelial cells in piglets.

The bioactive components as well as the nutritional and health effects of sea buckthorn

Sea buckthorn (SB), also named sea berry, Hippophae rhamnoides L. or Elaeagnus rhamnoides L., has been used in daily life for centuries with kinds of purposes ranging from a beverage with a pleasant taste and flavor, to an agent for treatment of many disorders and diseases. SB is well known more than just a fruit. So far, a unique mixture of bioactive components was elucidated in SB including flavonoids, phenolic acids, proanthocyanidins, carotenoids, fatty acids, triterpenoids, vitamins and phytosterols, which implied the great medicinal worth of this seaberry. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments, ranged from cell lines to animals as well as a few in patients and healthy volunteers, indicated that SB possessed various biological activities including anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, antioxidant properties, anti-cancer activities, hepato-protection, cardiovascular-protection, neuroprotection, radioprotection, skin protection effect as well as the protective effect against some eye and gastrointestinal sickness. Furthermore, the toxicological results revealed neither the fruits, nor the seeds of SB were toxic. The present review summarizes the unique profile of the chemical compounds, the nutritional and health effects as well as the toxicological properties of SB, which lay the foundation for practical applications of SB in treatment of human diseases.

Sea buckthorn (SB), also named sea berry, has been used in daily life for centuries with kinds of purposes ranging from a beverage with a pleasant taste and flavor, to an agent for treatment of many disorders and diseases.

Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharides protect IPEC-J2 cells from LPS-induced inflammation, apoptosis and barrier dysfunction in vitro via inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway

Inflammatory response caused by early weaning stress in piglets is associated with various diseases. The Hippophae rhamnoides polysaccharide (HRP) exhibits anti-inflammatory activity and immunomodulatory properties. The mechanisms for the protective effects of HRP on barrier function, inflammatory damage and apoptosis in intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) induced by the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are unknown. In this study, we first demonstrated the cytotoxicity of HRP-induced IPEC-J2 cells by reducing cell viability. IPEC-J2 cells were treated with 0-800 μg/mL doses of HRP, and 0-600 μg/mL doses were used in further experiments. Upon exposure to LPS, the viability of IPEC-J2 cells, ROS production, immunoglobulin levels (immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG)) and tight junction protein level (zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occluding, claudin-1) decreased. Inflammatory factors (interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) and apoptosis (Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9) were increased. Cell morphology and internal structure were damaged in the LPS treatment. Pre-treating cells with HRP (0-600 μg/mL) reduced inflammatory factors levels, apoptosis rate, increased immunoglobulins, tight junction protein levels and relieved cell surface morphology damage. Pre-treatment with HRP also reduced the levels of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and inhibited the phosphorylated NF-κB factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in cells induced by LPS. These results show that pre-treatment with HRP protected against LPS-induced IPEC-J2 cell damage through its anti-inflammatory activity.

Succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor dimethyl malonate alleviates LPS/d-galactosamine-induced acute hepatic damage in mice

In addition to its energy-supplying function, increasing evidence suggests that mitochondria also play crucial roles in the regulation of inflammation. Succinate dehydrogenase is also known as mitochondrial complex II, and inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase by dimethyl malonate has been reported to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the present study, the potential anti-inflammatory benefits of dimethyl malonate were investigated in a mouse model with LPS/d-galactosamine-induced acute hepatic damage. Male BALB/c mice were injected i.p. with LPS and d-galactosamine to cause liver injury. The degree of liver injury, inflammatory response and oxidative stress and the survival of the experimental animals were determined. The results indicated dimethyl malonate decreased the level of aminotransferases in plasma, alleviated histological abnormalities in liver, inhibited the induction of TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma, suppressed hepatocyte apoptosis and improved the survival of LPS/d-galactosamine-exposed mice. Therefore, inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase by dimethyl malonate significantly alleviated LPS/d-galactosamine-induced hepatic damage, which suggests that succinate dehydrogenase might become a novel target for the intervention of inflammation-based hepatic disorders.

Complement regulatory protein CD59a plays a protective role in immune liver injury of trichloroethylene-sensitized BALB/c mice

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a major occupational and environmental chemical compound which causes occupational dermatitis medicamentosa-like of TCE with severe liver damage. Our previous studies showed that complement activation was a newly recognized mechanism for TCE-induced liver damage. The objective of this study was to explore the role of the key complement regulatory protein, CD59a, in TCE-induced immune liver injury. We firstly evaluated the changes of CD59a expression in liver tissue and then investigated if the changes were associated with membrane attack complex (MAC) formation, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation and liver damage in BALB/c mice model of TCE-induced skin sensitization in the absence or presence of soluble recombinant rat CD59-Cys. The results showed that low expression of CD59a accompanied by MAC deposition in the liver of TCE-sensitized BALB/c mice, which was consistent in time. In addition, activation of NF-κB pathway, upregulation of inflammatory cytokine and liver damage also occured. Additional experiment showed that recombinant rat sCD59-Cys alleviated inflammation and liver damage in TCE-sensitized BALB/c mice. Moreover, recombinant rat sCD59-Cys reduced MAC formation and inhibited NF-κB activation measured by P-IκBα and nuclear NF-κB p65 in the liver of TCE-sensitized BALB/c mice. In conclusion, recombinant rat sCD59-Cys plays a protective role in immune liver injury of TCE-sensitized BALB/c mice.

Pretreatment with Salvia miltiorrhiza Polysaccharides Protects from Lipopolysaccharides/d-Galactosamine-Induced Liver Injury in Mice Through Inhibiting TLR4/MyD88 Signaling Pathway

The study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza polysaccharides (SMPs) on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)/d-galactosamine (d-GalN)-induced liver injury in mice and its mechanism. Seventy-two mice were allocated to 6 groups of 12 each, that is, the untreated control group, the liver injury model group, the Bifendate group (Bifendate 200 mg/kg/day), and 3 SMP-treated groups at low (250 mg/kg/day), medium (500 mg/kg/day), and high doses (750 mg/kg/day). After 12 days oral treatment, liver injury was induced with LPS/d-GalN, and 1 h later the mice were sacrificed for a series of analyses. The results showed that SMPs significantly alleviated pathological changes in the hepatic tissue. Compared with the untreated control group, the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14), myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD-2), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, phosphorylated inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase alpha/beta (P-IKK-α/β), phosphorylated inhibitor of NF-κB alpha (P-IκB-α) and phosphorylated P65 (P-P65) detected by Western blot, the levels of C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL-10) and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1) detected by immunohistochemistry, and the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of liver injury model group were increased significantly (P < 0.01). Compared with liver injury model group, the mRNA levels of LBP, CD14, MD-2, TLR4, and MyD88; protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, P-IKK-α/β, P-IκB-α, and P-P65; levels of CXCL-10 and ICAM-1; and the concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β of SMP groups and Bifendate group were decreased significantly (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). In conclusion, SMPs can effectively inhibit TLR4/MyD88 inflammatory signaling pathway of LPS/d-GalN-induced liver injury in mice, and it may be part of the mechanism by which SMPs relieve excessive inflammation in the liver of mice.

Apolipoprotein A5 alleviates LPS/D-GalN-induced fulminant liver failure in mice by inhibiting TLR4-mediated NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Fulminant liver failure (FHF) is a serious clinical problem and liver transplantation is the major intervention. But the overall survival rate of FHF is low owing to the donated organ shortage. Apolipoprotein A-V (ApoA5) is a regulator of triglyceride metabolism and has been reported to act as a predictor for remnant liver growth after preoperative portal vein embolization and liver surgery. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of ApoA5 on lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine (LPS/D-GalN)-induced fulminant liver failure in mice.

METHODS

FHF mouse model was established using LPS/D-GalN and ApoA5 plasmid was injected by tail vein prior to LPS/D-GalN treatment. The expressions of ApoA5, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κBp65) were assessed by real-time PCR and western blotting. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were measured using automatic biochemical analyzer. Histological assessment and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were conducted. Survival rate after LPS/D-GalN administration was also determined with Kaplan-Meier curve. Meanwhile, the expression of ApoA5 in injured huh7 cells was tested. Cell apoptosis analysis was performed after huh7 cells were transfected with ApoA5 plasmid and stimulated with LPS.

RESULTS

The expressions of ApoA5 decreased both in injured huh7 cells and FHF mice. ApoA5 overexpression reduced cell death rate using flow cytometry. ApoA5 not only decreased the serum ALT and TNF-α levels but also attenuated hepatic damage in hematoxylin-eosin (HE)-stained liver section. The protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κBp65 were inhibited when ApoA5 overexpressed. But the inhibitory effect would weaken with the increasing concentration of LPS in spite of ApoA5 overexpression. Besides, ApoA5 improved liver injury in a dose-dependent manner and the survival rate in FHF mice increased with increasing concentration of ApoA5.

CONCLUSION

ApoA5 had a protective effect against LPS/D-GalN-induced fulminant liver failure in mice within a certain range by inhibiting TLR4-mediated NF-κB pathway.