Induction of Nrf2/ARE-mediated cytoprotective genes by red ginseng oil through ASK1-MKK4/7-JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways in HepG2 cells

The critical role of the phytosterols in modulating tumor microenvironment via multiple signaling: A comprehensive molecular approach

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, and its cases are rapidly increasing every year. Several factors contribute to the development of tumorigenesis. including radiation, dietary lifestyle, smoking, environmental, and genetic factors. The cell cycle is regulated by a variety of molecular signaling proteins. However, when the proteins involved in the cell cycle regulation are altered, cellular growth and proliferation are significantly affected. Natural products provide an important source of new drug development for a variety of ailments. including cancer. Phytosterols (PSs) are an important class of natural compounds reported for numerous pharmacological activities, including cancer. Various PSs, such as ergosterol, stigmasterol, sitosterol, withaferin A, etc., have been reported for their anti-cancer activities against a variety of cancer by modulating the tumor microenvironment via molecular signaling pathways discussed within the article. These signaling pathways are associated with the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, growth factors, chemokines, and pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes. These mediators and their upstream signaling are very active within the variety of tumors and by modulating these signalings, thus PS exhibits promising anti-cancer activities. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy as well the safety of the phytosterols.

Gastroprotective mechanism of modified lvdou gancao decoction on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in mice: Involvement of Nrf-2/HO-1/NF-κB signaling pathway

Modified Lvdou Gancao decoction (MLG), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been put into clinical use to treat the diseases of the digestive system for a long run, showing great faculty in gastric protection and anti-inflammatory, whereas its protective mechanisms have not been determined. The current study puts the focus on the protective effect and its possible mechanisms of MLG on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in mice. In addition to various gastric lesion parameters and histopathology analysis, the activities of a list of relevant indicators in gastric mucosa were explored including ALDH, ADH, MDA, T-SOD, GSH-Px, and MPO, and the mechanisms were clarified using RT-qPCR, ELISA Western Blot and immunofluorescence staining. The results showed that MLG treatment induced significant increment of ADH, ALDH, T-SOD, GSH-Px, NO, PGE2 and SS activities in gastric tissues, while MPO, MDA, TNF-α and IL-1β levels were on the decline, both in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast to the model group, the mRNA expression of Nrf-2 and HO-1 in the MLG treated groups showed an upward trend while the NF-κB, TNFα, IL-1β and COX2 in the MLG treated groups had a downward trend simultaneously. Furthermore, the protein levels of p65, p-p65, IκBα, p-IκBα, iNOS, COX2 and p38 were inhibited, while Nrf2, HO-1, SOD1, SOD2 and eNOS were ramped up in MLG treatment groups. Immunofluorescence intensities of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the MLG treated groups were considerably enhanced, with p65 and IκBα diminished simultaneously, exhibiting similar trends to that of qPCR and western blot. To sum up, MLG could significantly ameliorate ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions in mice, which might be put down to the activation of alcohol metabolizing enzymes, attenuation of the oxidative damage and inflammatory response to maintain the gastric mucosa. The gastroprotective effect of MLG might be achieved through the diminution of damage factors and the enhancement of defensive factors involving NF-κB/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. We further confirmed that MLG has strong potential in preventing and treating ethanol-induced gastric lesions.

WASH regulates the oxidative stress Nrf2/ARE pathway to inhibit proliferation and promote apoptosis of HeLa cells under the action of Jolkinolide B

Jolkinolide B (JB), a diterpenoid compound isolated from the roots of Euphorbia fischeriana, has gained research attention for its antitumor effects. In recent years, JB reportedly displayed anti-tumor activity in solid tumors, such as breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer, and leukemia. In this study, we evaluated the effect of JB on HeLa cells with a focus on cell growth inhibition and related mechanisms. HeLa cells were cultured in vitro and divided into a blank control group, HeLa-Scramble (0, 0.25, 0.5 mM), and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein and SCAR homolog (WASH) protein silenced group, HeLa-shWASH (0, 0.25, 0.5 mM). Morphological changes were observed using an inverted microscope. The inhibition rate of cell proliferation was detected using the WST-1 method. Flow cytometry Brdu+PI double standard method was used to detect cell replication ability and FITC+PI double standard method was used to detect cell apoptosis rate. Western blot was used to verify the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, WASH, Bax, Bcl-2, and PCNA. The mRNA expression of cytokines (IL-1α, IL-6, and IL-8) was detected using RT-qPCR. The results showed that JB induced cell apoptosis and arrested cells at the G2/M phase in HeLa-shWASH cells compared with HeLa-Scramble cells (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively). In addition, JB upregulated IL-1α, IL-6, and IL-8 in HeLa-shWASH cells. We conclude that WASH protein participates in JB-induced regulation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway, aggravates inflammatory responses, and promotes cancer cell apoptosis, thus inhibiting the proliferation and invasion abilities of HeLa cells. JB may have anti-tumor effects and potential clinical value for the treatment of cervical cancer.

The Age-Specific Features and Clinical Significance of NRF2 and MAPK10 Expression in HCC Patients

Background

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) functions decline with age; however, cancer cells can hijack its pathways to ensure survival and aggressiveness. Yet, the role of NRF2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rarely investigated in an age-specific manner. This study investigates the expression of NRF2 and its activator (MAPK10) in different age groups of HCC patients, in addition to the age-specific features of NRF2 and MAPK10 interaction and their clinical significance.

Methods

Tumor and near-tumor tissue samples of 181 HCC patients were used to complete a protein expression analysis of NRF2 and MAPK10. Patients’ survival and clinical data were collected for clinical analysis. Global databases (TCGA, ICGC) were used to collect MAPK10 genetic mutation and mRNA expression data in patients with HCC, colorectal, stomach, and pancreatic cancers.

Results

Our findings revealed an increase in NRF2 protein expression but only in younger HCC patients, along with a decline in MAPK10 ability to activate NRF2 in older patients. We also found an increased MAPK10 genetic mutation rate and decreased mRNA expression in older patients. Low MAPK10 and NRF2 expression levels were associated with shorter survival and poorer prognosis due to positive correlation with microvascular invasion, tumor thrombus, elevated AFP levels, and larger tumor size.

Conclusion

NRF2 expression and oxidative stress mechanism in HCC patients are influenced by age. This magnifies the need to consider patients’ age in treatment strategies and guidelines and re-evaluates the application of studies’ age-standardized findings in older patients who are usually excluded from relevant research.

Modulation of Hair Growth Promoting Effect by Natural Products

A large number of people suffer from alopecia or hair loss worldwide. Drug-based therapies using minoxidil and finasteride for the treatment of alopecia are available, but they have shown various side effects in patients. Thus, the use of new therapeutic approaches using bioactive products to reduce the risk of anti-hair-loss medications has been emphasized. Natural products have been used since ancient times and have been proven safe, with few side effects. Several studies have demonstrated the use of plants and their extracts to promote hair growth. Moreover, commercial products based on these natural ingredients have been developed for the treatment of alopecia. Several clinical, animal, and cell-based studies have been conducted to determine the anti-alopecia effects of plant-derived biochemicals. This review is a collective study of phytochemicals with anti-alopecia effects, focusing mainly on the mechanisms underlying their hair-growth-promoting effects.

PRL-3 dephosphorylates p38 MAPK to promote cell survival under stress

Hypoxia within the tumor microenvironment, which leads to excessive ROS and genomic instability, is one of the hallmarks of cancer, contributing to self-renewal capability, metastasis, and radio-chemotherapy resistance. PRL-3 is an oncoprotein involved in various pro-survival signaling pathways, such as Ras/Erk, PI3K/Akt, Src/STAT, mTORC1 and JAK/STAT. However, there is little evidence connecting PRL-3-mediated apoptosis resistance to tumor microenvironmental stress. In this study, by profiling the PRL-3 expression of multiple tumor types retrieved from public databases (TCGA and NCBI GEO), we confirmed the oncogenic function of PRL-3 and found an intriguing connection between PRL-3 expression and tumor hypoxia signature genes. Moreover, by using CoCl₂, a hypoxia mimetic and ROS inducer, we discovered that cells stably expressing PRL-3, but not catalytically-inactive mutant PRL-3 C104S, showed significant resistance to CoCl₂ -induced apoptosis. This resistance to apoptosis was found to depend on p38 MAPK signaling and was further confirmed in other conditions of microenvironmental stress, including UV, H₂O₂ and hypoxia. Mechanistically, we proved that PRL-3 is a direct phosphatase of p38 MAPK under stressed conditions. Additionally, in mouse models of tumor metastasis, higher lung metastatic burden and lower p38 MAPK phosphorylation were found in mice seeded with GFP-PRL-3 expressing cells compared with those seeded with GFP-Ctrl cells. Taken together, our study identified a critical role of RPL-3 in tumorigenesis by negatively regulating p38 MAPK activity in order to facilitate tumor cell adaptation to a hypoxic stressed tumor microenvironment and suggests that PRL-3 could serve as a promising novel therapeutic target for cancer patients.

Red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) oil: A comprehensive review of extraction technologies, chemical composition, health benefits, molecular mechanisms, and safety

Red ginseng oil (RGO), rather than the conventional aqueous extract of red ginseng, has been receiving much attention due to accumulating evidence of its functional and pharmacological potential. In this review, we describe the key extraction technologies, chemical composition, potential health benefits, and safety of RGO. This review emphasizes the proposed molecular mechanisms by which RGO is involved in various bioactivities. RGO is mainly produced using organic solvents or supercritical fluid extraction, with the choice of method greatly affecting the yield and quality of the end products. RGO contains a high unsaturated fatty acid levels along with considerable amounts of lipophilic components such as phytosterols, tocopherols, and polyacetylenes. The beneficial health properties of RGO include cellular defense, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, chemoprevention, hair growth promotion, and skin health improvement. We propose several molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that underlie the bioactivity of RGO. In addition, RGO is regarded as safe and nontoxic. Further studies on RGO must focus on a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms, composition–functionality relationship, and verification of the bioactivities of RGO in clinical models. This review may provide useful information in the development of RGO-based products in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and functional cosmetics.

Olmesartan niosomes ameliorates the Indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats: Insights on MAPK and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

AIMS

Gastric ulcer is a continuous worldwide threat that inquires protective agents. Olmesartan (OLM) has potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory characters, yet having limited bioavailability. We targeted the gastro-protective potential and probable mechanism of OLM and its niosomal form against indomethacin (IND) induced-gastric ulcer in rats.

MAIN METHODS

we prepared OLM niosomes (OLM-NIO) with different surfactant: cholesterol molar ratios. We evaluated particle size, zeta-potential, polydispersity, and entrapment efficiency. In-vitro release study, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy were performed for selected niosomes. In-vivo, we used oral Omeprazole (30 mg/kg), OLM or OLM-NIO (10 mg/kg) for 3 days before IND (25 mg/kg) ingestion. We assessed gastric lesions, oxidative and inflammatory markers.

KEY FINDINGS

OLM-NIO prepared with span 60:cholesterol ratio (1:1) showed high entrapment efficiency 93 ± 2%, small particle size 159.3 ± 6.8 nm, low polydispersity 0.229 ± 0.009, and high zeta-potential -35.3 ± 1.2 mV, with sustained release mechanism by release data. In-vivo macroscopical and histological results showed gastro-protective effects of OLM pretreatment, which improved oxidative stress parameters and enhanced the gastric mucosal cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) contents. OLM pretreatment suppressed interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) contents and translocation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK). Besides, OLM substantially promoted the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protective pathway. OLM-NIO furtherly improved all previous outcomes.

SIGNIFICANCE

We explored OLM anti-ulcerative effects, implicating oxidative stress and inflammation improvement, mediated by the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and p38-MAPK translocation. Meanwhile, the more bioavailable OLM-NIO achieved better gastro-protective effects compared to conventional OLM form.

Activation of Nrf2 by methylene blue is associated with the neuroprotection against MPP+ induced toxicity via ameliorating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction

The neuropathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) is the preferential loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and presence of Lewy bodies in the dying neurons. Though specific molecular mechanisms for the neurodegeneration remains to be clarified, mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress are major players associated with PD pathogenesis and these pathogenic mechanisms can be reproduced in cells and animals by application of various neurotoxins such as MPP⁺. In this study, we attempted to determine the neuroprotective effects of methylene blue (MB) against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP⁺)-induced neurotoxicity, and to elucidate its action mechanism. We observed that MB attenuated MPP⁺-induced apoptotic cell death in SH-SY5Y cells and the mescencephalic dopaminergic neurons. In addition, MB protected the cells against MPP⁺-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction as evidenced by restoration of mitochondrial complex I activity and ATP levels, and attenuation of oxidative stress. Moreover, we demonstrated that MB induced antioxidant molecules, and activated Nrf2 pathway through AKT activation. These results indicate that MB protects the neurons from MPP⁺-induced toxicity through activation of antioxidant system, thereby reducing the oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment, implying the potential use of MB in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as PD.

Red Ginseng Oil Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Offers Protection against Ultraviolet-Induced Photo Toxicity

Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) is a well-known herbal medicine that has been used for a long time in Korea to treat various diseases. This study investigated the in vitro and in vivo protective effects of red ginseng extract (RGE) and red ginseng oil (RGO). Liver injury was produced in BALB/c mice by 400 mg/kg of acetaminophen intraperitoneal injection. The antioxidant effects of RGE and RGO on the free radicals 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) were measured. In addition, the hepatoprotective activities of RGE and RGO on liver markers, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) enzyme activity, and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in serum and histopathological analysis, were evaluated. The protective effect of RGO on UV-induced phototoxicity was also evaluated in Balb/c 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line. RGE and RGO effectively inhibited the radicals DPPH and ABTS compared with ascorbic acid and trolox, respectively. Moreover, RGE and RGO significantly decreased the liver enzyme (ALT and AST) levels, increased the antioxidant enzyme (SOD and CAT) levels, and decreased the DNA oxidation product (8-OHdG) content in mice serum. RGO also exhibited protective effect against UV irradiation compared with chlorpromazine hydrochloride, a known phototoxic drug, in Balb/c 3T3 cell line. RGE and RGO possess antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties in mice, and RGO exerts nonphototoxic activity in Balb/c 3T3 cells.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Zingiber montanum Oil in HepG2 Cells and Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Improvement of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions is believed to be an effective strategy for protection against various diseases such as cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative disease. This study focused on investigating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities of Zingiber montanum oil (ZMO) extracted by the supercritical CO₂ fluid system in HepG2 cells and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Ten predominant constituents of ZMO were identified, in which triquinacene, 1,4-bis (methoxy), terpinen-4-ol, triquinacene, 1,4,7-tris (methoxy), α-terpinene, sabinene hydrate, and (E and Z)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)butadiene account for 86.47%. ZMO exhibited anti-inflammatory capacity by inhibiting the formation of pro-inflammatory markers such as nitric oxide, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in LPS-treated macrophages. The LPS-induced stimulation of nuclear factor-kappa B, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways as evident from increased phosphorylation of IKKα/β, IκBα, p65, Stat3, ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK was also suppressed by ZMO pretreatment. Further, ZMO enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and concurrently, reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, ZMO treatment markedly upregulated the expression of Nrf2 as well as its target genes, HO-1 and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 in HepG2 cells. These data propose that ZMO may be a potent candidate for prevention and/or treatment of inflammatory and oxidative conditions.

Allicin alleviated acrylamide-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation via oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress in Kupffer cells and SD rats liver

Acrylamide (AA) in heat-processed food leads to widespread concerns due to its hepatotoxicity. Allicin, a plant-derived antioxidant, possesses a significant protective effect on AA-induced hepatotoxicity, but the mechanism is still unclear. Herein, we investigated the mechanism in Kupffer cells and SD rats liver. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and LigPlus software speculated that allicin inhibited the activity of CYP2E1 expression by binding to its amino acid residues Phe116, Phe207, Leu210, Phe298, Ala299, Thr303, Val364 and Phe478 through hydrophobic interactions. Allicin decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) release and CYP2E1 protein expression and then alleviated the appearance of OS. Meanwhile, allicin significantly reduced ERS characteristic proteins GRP78, CHOP and UPR branch IRE1α pathway key proteins p-IRE, p-ASK, TRAF2 and XBP-1s expression. Simultaneously, allicin ameliorated OS and ERS activation, which inhibited the activation of the MAPK and NF-κB pathways, and down-regulated JNK, ERK, p38, p65 and IκBα phosphorylation. Allicin pre-treatment inhibited AA-induced inflammation as evidenced by reducing NLRP3 inflammasome activation, decreasing Cleaved-Caspase-1 expression as well as IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α secretion. Taken together, our data provide new insights into possible signaling pathways involved in allicin attenuating AA-induced hepatotoxicity in vivo and in vitro.

Red ginseng oil promotes hair growth and protects skin against UVC radiation

Background

A wide range of environmental factors, such as diseases, nutritional deficiencies, ageing, hormonal imbalances, stress, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, may affect the structure and function of the skin that covers the entire surface of the human body. In this study, we investigated roles of red ginseng oil (RGO) in enhancing skin functions, including hair growth and skin protection, using mouse models.

Methods

For hair growth experiment, shaved dorsal skins of C57BL/6 mice were topically applied with vehicle, RGO, RGO's major compounds, or minoxidil for consecutive 21 days and skin tissues were examined the hair growth promoting capacity. For skin protection experiment, SKH-1 hairless mice were topically applied with vehicle or RGO twice a day for three days prior to exposure to UVC radiation at 20 kJ/cm². Skin tissues were collected to evaluate skin protective effects of RGO.

Results

Topical application of RGO to C57BL/6 mice effectively promoted hair regeneration by inducing early telogen-to-anagen transition and significantly increasing the density and bulb diameter of hair follicles. Major compounds, including linoleic acids and β-sitosterol, contributed to RGO-promoted hair growth. Treatment with RGO as well as its major components upregulated expression of hair growth–related proteins. Furthermore, in SKH-1 hairless mice, RGO had a protective effect against UVC-induced skin damage by inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis, as well as inducing cytoprotective systems.

Conclusion

These data suggest that RGO may be a potent agent for improving skin health and thereby preventing and/or treating hair loss and protecting skin against UV radiation.

Betulinic Acid Attenuates Oxidative Stress in the Thymus Induced by Acute Exposure to T-2 Toxin via Regulation of the MAPK/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

T-2 toxin, the most toxic of the trichothecenes, is widely found in grains and feeds, and its intake poses serious risks to the health of humans and animals. An important cytotoxicity mechanism of T-2 toxin is the production of excess free radicals, which in turn leads to oxidative stress. Betulinic acid (BA) has many biological activities, including antioxidant activity, which is a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid. The protective effects and mechanisms of BA in blocking oxidative stress caused by acute exposure to T-2 toxin in the thymus of mice was studied. BA pretreatment reduced ROS production, decreased the MDA content, and increased the content of IgG in serum and the levels of SOD and GSH in the thymus. BA pretreatment also reduced the degree of congestion observed in histopathological tissue sections of the thymus induced by T-2 toxin. Besides, BA downregulated the phosphorylation of the p38, JNK, and ERK proteins, while it upregulated the expression of the Nrf2 and HO-1 proteins in thymus tissues. The results indicated that BA could protect the thymus against the oxidative damage challenged by T-2 toxin by activating Nrf2 and suppressing the MAPK signaling pathway.

Physiological and pharmacological features of the non-saponin components in Korean Red Ginseng

Panax ginseng, a medicinal plant, has been used as a blood-nourishing tonic for thousands of years in Asia, including Korea and China. P. ginseng exhibits adaptogen activity that maintains homeostasis by restoring general biological functions and non-specifically enhancing the body's resistance to external stress. Several P. ginseng effects have been reported. Korean Red Ginseng, in particular, has been reported in both basic and clinical studies to possess diverse effects such as enhanced immunity, fatigue relief, memory, blood circulation, and anti-oxidation. Moreover, it also protects against menopausal symptoms, cancer, cardiac diseases, and neurological disorders. The active components found in most Korean Red Ginseng varieties are known to include ginsenosides, polysaccharides, peptides, alkaloids, polyacetylene, and phenolic compounds. In this review, the identity and bioactivity of the non-saponin components of Korean Red Ginseng discovered to date are evaluated and the components are classified into polysaccharide and nitrogen compounds (protein, peptide, amino acid, nucleic acid, and alkaloid), as well as fat-soluble components such as polyacetylene, phenols, essential oils, and phytosterols. The distinct bioactivity of Korean Red Ginseng was found to originate from both saponin and non-saponin components rather than from only one or two specific components. Therefore, it is important to consider saponin and non-saponin elements together.

Sodium fluoride impairs splenic innate immunity via inactivation of TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway in mice

Fluoride is known to affect the inflammatory process and autoregulation of immune responses, but the molecular mechanism by which fluoride causes innate immune injury remain largely unknown. Also, studies on sodium fluoride (NaF)-caused alteration of TLR signaling are still lacking. In the present study, we examined the effects of NaF on the mRNA and protein expression levels of TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway molecules in the mouse spleen by using the methods of qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Consequently, we elucidated the mechanism underlying the effects of NaF on innate immunity. Two hundred and forty ICR mice were randomly divided into 4 groups with intragastric administration of distilled water in the control group and 12, 24, 48 mg/kg of NaF treatment in the experiment groups for 42 days. The findings revealed that NaF impaired splenic innate immunity in mice via inactivation of TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway. NaF-inactivated TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway was identified by prominently downregulated mRNA and protein expression levels of TLR2/MyD88, IRAK4, IRAK1, TRAF6, TAK1, MKK4/MKK7 and c-Jun, which ultimately altered the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-8 to attenuate innate immunity.

The dietary triterpenoid 18α-Glycyrrhetinic acid protects from MMC-induced genotoxicity through the ERK/Nrf2 pathway

18α-Glycyrrhetinic acid (18α-GA) is a bioactive triterpenoid that has been shown to activate the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived-2)-like 2 (Nrf2), the main transcription factor that orchestrates the cellular antioxidant response, in both cellular and organismal context. Although various beneficial properties of 18α-GA have been revealed, including its anti-oxidation and anti-aging activity, its possible protective effect against DNA damage has never been addressed. In this study, we investigated the potential beneficial properties of 18α-GA against DNA damage induced by mitomycin C (MMC) treatment. Using human primary fibroblasts exposed to MMC following pre-treatment with 18α-GA, we reveal an Nrf2-mediated protective effect against MMC-induced cell death that depends on extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. In total, our results reveal an additional beneficial effect of the Nrf2 activator 18α-GA, suggesting that this important phytochemical compound is a potential candidate in preventive and/or therapeutic schemes against conditions (such as aging) or diseases that are characterized by both oxidative stress and DNA damage.

Potential of Fatty Oils from Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Therapy: A Review for Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Clinical Studies

Cancer management is a worldwide challenge. In addition to effective cancer therapies like chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, treatment based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and combined TCM with western medicine has gradually gained attention in Oriental countries. One potential TCM approach using extracted fatty oils, containing fatty acids which are important active ingredients with a variety of pharmacological activities, makes significant contributions to cancer treatment. The strategies of treating cancer with the fatty oils of TCM were classified into “Fuzheng”, which usually associates with improving immunity, represented by coix seed oil. The other classification is “Quxie”, which relates to inducing apoptosis of cancer cells, and is represented by Brucea javanica oil. Compared with other active substances, the literature about anticancer fatty oils is relatively limited, and most of them focus on the composition and other biological activities without a systematic review. Therefore, based on the theories of “Fuzheng” and “Quxie” in TCM, in this paper, the anticancer effects of fatty oils have been reviewed. The chemical composition, anticancer mechanism, listed drugs, studying dosage form and clinical application of fatty oils have also been discussed. In summary, since there are different types and abundance of fatty oils among botanicals, anticancer effects of fatty oils can be achieved through two TCM theory-based strategies. We hoped that this review paper can reveal the anticancer potential of fatty oils and provide a reference for future related studies.

Red ginseng extract regulates differentiation of monocytes to macrophage and inflammatory signalings in human monocytes

This study was aimed to investigate the effect of red ginseng extract (RGE) on monocyte to macrophage differentiation and inflammatory signalings in THP-1 human monocytes. In HPLC analysis, RGE contained saponin level of 516 μg/mg (extract) with 14 ginsenosides. RGE effectively suppressed the monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetated (PMA) by inhibiting the THP-1 cell adhesion. This result is evidenced by the down-regulation of cluster of differentiation molecule β (CD11β) and CD36. RGE significantly reduced translocation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) (78%), while cytosolic NF-κB was increased (53%), compared with LPS group. In addition, RGE significantly increased the protein abundance of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and its target protein, hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1), but, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), a negative regulator of Nrf2, was greatly decreased by RGE. Furthermore, RGE effectively mediated the regulation of Nrf2 level in nucleus and cytoplasm of THP-1.

Dehydroabietic Acid Suppresses Inflammatory Response Via Suppression of Src-, Syk-, and TAK1-Mediated Pathways

Dehydroabietic acid (DAA) is a naturally occurring diterpene resin acid derived from coniferous plants such as Pinus and Picea. Various bioactive effects of DAA have been studied including antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of DAA remains unclear. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of DAA in macrophage cell lines. Dehydroabietic acid clearly reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and inflammatory gene expression decreased according to RT-PCR results. Dehydroabietic acid displayed anti-inflammatory activity at the transcriptional level in results from NF-κB- or AP-1-mediated luciferase assays. To identify the DAA target protein, we investigated NF-κB and AP-1 pathways by Western blotting analysis. Dehydroabietic acid suppressed the activity of proto-oncogene tyrosine protein kinase (Src) and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) in the NF-κB cascade and transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) in the AP-1 cascade. Using overexpression strategies, we confirmed that DAA targeted these kinases. Our findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects and molecular mechanism of DAA. This suggests that DAA has potential as a drug or supplement to ameliorate inflammation.

Chemopreventive Activity of Red Ginseng Oil in a Mouse Model of Azoxymethane/Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Inflammation-Associated Colon Carcinogenesis

Our previous studies have demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective properties of red ginseng oil (RGO). However, the role of RGO in models of intestinal inflammation has not been elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the chemopreventive effect of RGO in a mouse model of azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS)-induced colitis and explored its underlying mechanisms. Male C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of AOM (10 mg/kg), followed by 1.5% DSS in drinking water for 7 days to produce colon carcinogenesis. RGO at 10 or 100 mg/kg was orally given for 17 weeks. RGO supplementation reduced the plasma nitric oxide (NO) concentration as well as lipid peroxidation and inhibited the production of proinflammatory factors such as inducible NO synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin 1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in the mouse colitis tissue. Increased phosphorylation levels of p65 and IκB by AOM/DSS exposure were attenuated by the presence of RGO. In addition, RGO supplementation induced the activity of primary antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-mediated antioxidant enzyme hemeoxygenase-1 in the colons of AOM/DSS-treated mice. These findings indicate that RGO may be a potent natural chemopreventive agent for ameliorating inflammatory bowel diseases.

Structural characterization of Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) oligopeptides and the detection of their capability in non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells: induction of apoptosis

Oligopeptides are rarely reported from Chinese herbal medicine because they are often present in very low concentrations in a complex matrix. Twenty-eight oligopeptides were recently identified by high-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS) from Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae), and a septapeptide, FHGKGHE (Phe-His-Gly-Lys-Gly-His-Glu), named MCLO-12, showed the best anticancer activity against the non-small cell lung cancer A549 cell line in vitro, with an IC₅₀ value of 21.4 ± 2.21 mM. The anti-proliferative activity assay results showed that MCLO-12 induced apoptosis of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Treatment of the cells with MCLO-12 (10.7–42.8 mM mL⁻¹) caused strong intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) up-regulating activities and activated caspase expression. MCLO-12 also suppressed the Trx system and subsequently activated a number of Trx-dependent pathways, including the ASK1, MAPK-p38 and JNK pathways. Thus, our research provides a good reference point for anti-NSCLC research into oligopeptides.

MCLO-12 induced apoptosis by up-regulating the ROS, activating the caspases expressions, suppressing the Trx system and subsequently activating a number of Trx-dependent pathways.

Oncogenic Activation of Nrf2, Though as a Master Antioxidant Transcription Factor, Liberated by Specific Knockout of the Full-Length Nrf1α that Acts as a Dominant Tumor Repressor

Liver-specific knockout of Nrf1 in the mouse leads to spontaneous development of non- alcoholic steatohepatitis with dyslipidemia, and then its deterioration results in hepatoma, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive to date. A similar pathological model is reconstructed here by using human Nrf1α-specific knockout cell lines. Our evidence has demonstrated that a marked increase of the inflammation marker COX2 definitely occurs in Nrf1α^−/− cells. Loss of Nrf1α leads to hyperactivation of Nrf2, which results from substantial decreases in Keap1, PTEN and most of 26S proteasomal subunits in Nrf1α^−/− cells. Further investigation of xenograft model mice showed that malignant growth of Nrf1α^−/−-derived tumors is almost abolished by silencing of Nrf2, while Nrf1α^+/+-tumor is markedly repressed by an inactive mutant (i.e., Nrf2^−/−ΔTA), but largely unaffected by a priori constitutive activator (i.e., caNrf2^ΔN). Mechanistic studies, combined with transcriptomic sequencing, unraveled a panoramic view of opposing and unifying inter-regulatory cross-talks between Nrf1α and Nrf2 at different layers of the endogenous regulatory networks from multiple signaling towards differential expression profiling of target genes. Collectively, Nrf1α manifests a dominant tumor-suppressive effect by confining Nrf2 oncogenicity. Though as a tumor promoter, Nrf2 can also, in turn, directly activate the transcriptional expression of Nrf1 to form a negative feedback loop. In view of such mutual inter-regulation by between Nrf1α and Nrf2, it should thus be taken severe cautions to interpret the experimental results from loss of Nrf1α, Nrf2 or both.

Major compounds of red ginseng oil attenuate Aβ25-35-induced neuronal apoptosis and inflammation by modulating MAPK/NF-κB pathway

β-Amyloid (Aβ)-induced neuronal toxicity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with complex mechanisms. Thus, a multi-target approach might be suitable for AD treatment. Following our previous study on the neuroprotective effects of red ginseng oil extract, its major compounds, including linoleic acid (LA), β-sitosterol (BS), and stigmasterol (SS), were examined to elucidate the mechanism of anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammation in Aβ25-35-stimulated PC12 cells. The results showed that the three compounds mitigated Aβ25-35 toxicity by regulating oxidative stress, apoptotic responses, and pro-inflammatory mediators. LA and SS strongly regulated intrinsic apoptosis markers, such as mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular Ca2+, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and caspases-9, -3, and -8. However, BS blocked only the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, particularly by suppressing Ca2+ accumulation. Furthermore, all three compounds downregulated iNOS and phospho-nuclear factor-κB, but only LA and SS inhibited the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and phospho-IκB. In assays to evaluate MAPK expression for confirming upstream signal pathways, BS decreased the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK, but not JNK, while SS markedly decreased the phosphorylation of all three MAPKs, and LA clearly decreased the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK, but not p38. These results indicate that LA, BS, and SS act as neuroprotectives against Aβ25-35-induced injury by distinct molecular mechanisms, indicating their preventive and/or therapeutic potential to treat AD.

Activation of Nrf2 signaling by natural products-can it alleviate diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has reached pandemic proportions and effective prevention strategies are wanted. Its onset is accompanied by cellular distress, the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor boosting cytoprotective responses, and many phytochemicals activate Nrf2 signaling. Thus, Nrf2 activation by natural products could presumably alleviate DM. We summarize function, regulation and exogenous activation of Nrf2, as well as diabetes-linked and Nrf2-susceptible forms of cellular stress. The reported amelioration of insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction and diabetic complications by activated Nrf2 as well as the status quo of Nrf2 in precision medicine for DM are reviewed.

Novel ASK1 Inhibitor AGI-1067 Attenuates AGE-Induced Fibrotic Response by Suppressing the MKKs/p38 MAPK Pathway in Human Coronary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells

The phenotype shifting of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) was indicated to play a role during the initial stage of atherosclerotic plaque formation by facilitating extracellular matrix deposition. This study was aimed at investigating the involvement of the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) /mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinases (MKKs) /p38 MAPK pathway in the advanced glycation end product (AGE) -induced fibrotic response of VSMCs. The effect of the novel ASK1 inhibitor AGI-1067 was also studied.Cultured human coronary smooth muscle cells (HCSMCs) were exposed to AGEs. AGI-1067 and siRNAs silencing mkk3, mkk6, and p38 mapk were used to treat the cells. The activation of MKK3, MKK6, and p38 MAPK was assessed by immunoblotting. Fibrotic response was assessed by the fluorescence immunohistochemistry staining of collagen I and collagen VIII. Activation of immunoprecipitation determined the association of ASK1 and its inhibitor thioredoxin. A kinase assay was used to determine ASK1 activity.AGE incubation significantly activated ASK1, MKK3, and MKK6, which led to activation of p38 MAPK, resulting in upregulated fibrotic response in HCSMCs. However, siRNAs knocking down mkk3, mkk6, and p38 mapk impaired this fibrotic response. AGI-1067 administration not only dramatically inhibited the activation of ASK1/MKKs/p38 MAPK but also suppressed the expression of the downstream proteins, including transforming growth factor-β1, connective tissue growth factor, collagen I, and collagen VIII in HCSMCs exposed to AGEs.The ASK1/MKKs/p38 MAPK pathway was activated by AGEs, leading to the fibrotic response in VSMCs. AGI-1067 reversed this process by maintaining the inactive state of ASK1.

Src Is a Prime Target Inhibited by Celtis choseniana Methanol Extract in Its Anti-Inflammatory Action

Celtis choseniana is the traditional plant used at Korea as a herbal medicine to ameliorate inflammatory responses. Although Celtis choseniana has been traditionally used as a herbal medicine at Korea, no systemic research has been conducted on its anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, the present study explored an anti-inflammatory effect and its underlying molecular mechanism using Celtis choseniana methanol extract (Cc-ME) in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Cc-ME was evaluated using RAW264.7 cells and peritoneal macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), pam3CSK4 (Pam3), or poly(I:C). In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Cc-ME was investigated using acute inflammatory disease mouse models, such as LPS-induced peritonitis and HCl/EtOH-induced gastritis. The molecular mechanism of Cc-ME-mediated anti-inflammatory activity was examined by Western blot analysis and immunoprecipitation using whole cell and nuclear fraction prepared from the LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and HEK293 cells. Cc-ME inhibited NO production and mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the RAW264.7 cells and peritoneal macrophages induced by LPS, pam3, or poly(I:C) without cytotoxicity. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that Cc-ME contained anti-inflammatory flavonoids quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol. Among those, the content of luteolin, which showed an inhibitory effect on NO production, was highest. Cc-ME suppressed the NF-κB signaling pathway by targeting Src and interrupting molecular interactions between Src and p85, its downstream kinase. Moreover, Cc-ME ameliorated the morphological finding of peritonitis and gastritis in the mouse disease models. Therefore, these results suggest that Cc-ME exerted in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages and mouse models of acute inflammatory diseases. This anti-inflammatory activity of Cc-ME was dominantly mediated by targeting Src in NF-κB signaling pathway during macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses.

Momordica charantia Inhibits Inflammatory Responses in Murine Macrophages via Suppression of TAK1

Momordica charantia known as bitter melon is a representative medicinal plant reported to exhibit numerous pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antitumor, and hypoglycemic actions. Although this plant has high ethnopharmacological value for treating inflammatory diseases, the molecular mechanisms by which it inhibits the inflammatory response are not fully understood. In this study, we aim to identify the anti-inflammatory mechanism of this plant. To this end, we studied the effects of its methanol extract (Mc-ME) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Specifically, we evaluated nitric oxide (NO) production, mRNA expression of inflammatory genes, luciferase reporter gene activity, and putative molecular targets. Mc-ME blocked NO production in a dose-dependent manner in RAW264.7 cells; importantly, no cytotoxicity was observed. Moreover, the mRNA expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were decreased by Mc-ME treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Luciferase assays and nuclear lysate immunoblotting analyses strongly indicated that Mc-ME decreases the levels of p65 [a nuclear factor (NF)-[Formula: see text]B subunit] and c-Fos [an activator protein (AP)-1 subunit]. Whole lysate immunoblotting assays, luciferase assays, and overexpression experiments suggested that transforming growth factor [Formula: see text]-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is targeted by Mc-ME, thereby suppressing NF-[Formula: see text]B and AP-1 activity via downregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) and AKT. These results strongly suggest that Mc-ME exerts its anti-inflammatory activity by reducing the action of TAK1, which also affects the activation of NF-[Formula: see text]B and AP-1.

Red Ginseng Oil Inhibits TPA-Induced Transformation of Skin Epidermal JB6 Cells

Red ginseng oil (RGO) has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity. In this study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of RGO on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated neoplastic transformation of JB6 P+ cells. RGO pretreatment abolished the transformation of JB6 P+ cells challenged by TPA. RGO suppressed the transactivation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) transcription factors as well as protein levels of cyclooxygenase-2, cyclin D1, cyclin E, and Bcl-2 in the TPA-treated cells. Additionally, TPA-induced phosphorylations of extracellular signal-regulated kinases, 90 kDa ribosomal S6 kinase 2, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, and glycogen synthase kinase 3β were downregulated in the presence of RGO. Furthermore, RGO induced the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression, and effectively blocked the overproduction of TPA-induced reactive oxygen species. These results suggest that RGO exerts a potent chemopreventive activity in skin cell model.

Huangqi Decoction Alleviates Alpha-Naphthylisothiocyanate Induced Intrahepatic Cholestasis by Reversing Disordered Bile Acid and Glutathione Homeostasis in Mice

Intrahepatic cholestasis is a serious symptom of liver disorders with limited therapies. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of Huangqi decoction (HQD), a two-herb classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), in the treatment of alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced intrahepatic cholestasis in mice. HQD treatment ameliorated impaired hepatic function and tissue damage. A metabolomics study revealed that the endogenous metabolites significantly affected by HQD were related to bile acid (BA) biosynthesis and glutathione metabolism pathways. HQD treatment decreased the intrahepatic accumulation of cytotoxic BAs, normalized serum BA levels, and increased biliary and urinary BA excretion. Additionally, HQD restored the hepatic glutathione content and suppressed reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cholestatic mice. Protein and gene analysis revealed that HQD increased the expression of the hepatic metabolizing enzymes cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2B10 and UDP glucuronosyltransferase family 1 member A1 (UGT1A1), as well as multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (Mrp2), Mrp3, and Mrp4, which play crucial roles in BA homeostasis. Further, HQD increased the protein expression of glutamate-cysteine ligase, which is involved in the synthesis of glutathione. Importantly, HQD increased the nuclear expression of nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2). In conclusion, HQD protects against intrahepatic cholestasis by reversing the disordered homeostasis of BAs and glutathione.

Matrine-Type Alkaloids Inhibit Advanced Glycation End Products Induced Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Apoptosis of Aortic Endothelial Cells In Vivo and In Vitro by Targeting MKK3 and p38MAPK Signaling

Background

The matrine‐type alkaloids are bioactive components extracted from Sophora flavescens, which is used in treatment of diabetes mellitus in traditional Chinese medicine. Advanced glycation end products mediate diabetic vascular complications. This study was aimed to investigate the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of matrine‐type alkaloids on advanced glycation end products–induced reactive oxygen species–mediated endothelial apoptosis.

Methods and Results

Rats aorta and cultured rat aortic endothelial cells were exposed to advanced glycation end products. Matrine‐type alkaloids, p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, and small interference RNAs against p38 MAPK kinases MAPK kinase kinase (MKK)3 and MKK6 were administrated. Intracellular reactive oxygen species production, cell apoptosis, phosphorylation of MKKs/p38 MAPK, and expression levels of heme oxygenase/NADPH quinone oxidoreductase were assessed. The nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 nuclear translocation and the binding activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 with antioxidant response element were also evaluated. Matrine‐type alkaloids suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species production and inhibited endothelial cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro by recovering phosphorylation of MKK3/6 and p38 MAPK, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 nuclear translocation, and antioxidant response element binding activity, as well as the expression levels of heme oxygenase/NADPH quinone oxidoreductase. p38 MAPK inhibitor treatment impaired the effects of matrine‐type alkaloids in vivo and in vitro. MKK3/6 silencing impaired the effects of matrine‐type alkaloids in vitro.

Conclusions

Matrine‐type alkaloids exert endothelial protective effects against advanced glycation end products induced reactive oxygen species–mediated apoptosis by targeting MKK3/6 and enhancing their phosphorylation.

Protective Effects of Red Ginseng Oil against Aβ25-35-Induced Neuronal Apoptosis and Inflammation in PC12 Cells

One of pathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD), aggregation and deposition of β amyloid (Aβ), has been accepted as a potent activator of neuronal cell death. Red ginseng is well-known for various pharmacological activities, but most studies have been focused on red ginseng water extract (RGW), which has resulted in the conception of the present study of red ginseng oil (RGO) against Aβ_25-35-induced neurotoxicity. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction by Aβ were verified and the underlying mechanism by which RGO inhibited neuronal cell death, mitochondria dysfunction and NF-κB pathway related protein markers were evaluated. RGO attenuated Aβ_25-35-induced apoptosis, not only by inhibiting calcium influx, but also by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential loss. RGO significantly decreased Bax, whereas increased Bcl-2 and inactivated of caspase-3 and -9 and PARP-1 stimulated by Aβ_25-35. Anti-neuroinflammatory effect of RGO was demonstrated by downregulating c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38, resulting in inhibiting of the NF-κB pathway and thereby suppressing the expressions of pro-inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The present study revealed that RGO is a potential natural resource of the functional foods industry as well as a promising candidate of multi-target neuronal protective agent for the prevention of AD.

Hair Regenerative Mechanisms of Red Ginseng Oil and Its Major Components in the Testosterone-Induced Delay of Anagen Entry in C57BL/6 Mice

Hair loss (alopecia) is a universal problem for numerous people in the world. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of red ginseng oil (RGO) and its major components on hair re-growth using testosterone (TES)-induced delay of anagen entry in C57BL/6 mice and their mechanisms of action. Seven-week-old C57BL/6 mice were daily treated with TES for 1 h prior to topical application of 10% RGO, 1% linoleic acid (LA), 1% β-sitosterol (SITOS), or 1% bicyclo(10.1.0)tridec-1-ene (BICYCLO) once a day for 28 days. Hair regenerative capacity was significantly restored by treatment of RGO and its major compounds in the TES-treated mice. Histological analysis showed that RGO along with LA and SITOS but not BICYCLO promoted hair growth through early inducing anagen phase that was delayed by TES in mice. Treatment of mice with RGO, LA, or SITOS up-regulated Wnt/β-catenin and Shh/Gli pathways-mediated expression of genes such as β-catenin, Lef-1, Sonic hedgehog, Smoothened, Gli-1, Cyclin D1, and Cyclin E in the TES-treated mice. In addition, RGO and its major components reduced the protein level of TGF-β but enhanced the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. These results suggest that RGO is a potent novel therapeutic natural product for treatment of androgenic alopecia possibly through hair re-growth activity of its major components such as LA and SITOS.

Beauvericin, a cyclic peptide, inhibits inflammatory responses in macrophages by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway

Beauvericin (BEA), a cyclic hexadepsipeptide produced by the fungus Beauveria bassiana, is known to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial actions. However, how BEA suppresses macrophage-induced inflammatory responses has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we explored the anti-inflammatory properties of BEA and the underlying molecular mechanisms using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells. Levels of nitric oxide (NO), mRNA levels of transcription factors and the inflammatory genes inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and interleukin (IL)-1, and protein levels of activated intracellular signaling molecules were determined by Griess assay, semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), luciferase reporter gene assay, and immunoblotting analysis. BEA dose-dependently blocked the production of NO in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells without inducing cell cytotoxicity. BEA also prevented LPS-triggered morphological changes. This compound significantly inhibited nuclear translocation of the NF-κB subunits p65 and p50. Luciferase reporter gene assays demonstrated that BEA suppresses MyD88-dependent NF-κB activation. By analyzing upstream signaling events for NF-κB activation and overexpressing Src and Syk, these two enzymes were revealed to be targets of BEA. Together, these results suggest that BEA suppresses NF-κB-dependent inflammatory responses by suppressing both Src and Syk.

Pinecone of Pinus koraiensis Inducing Apoptosis in Human Lung Cancer Cells by Activating Caspase-3 and its Chemical Constituents

Pinecones from Pinus koraiensisSiebold & Zucc. (Pinaceae), which have historically been treated as an undesired waste by-product in the processing of seeds, have recently been shown to contain ingredients with potent biological activities, such as polyphenols exhibiting antitumor activity. With this study, we seek to broaden our understanding of antitumor compounds contained in these pinecones beyond just polyphenols. We found that the water extract of P. koraiensis pinecones exhibits significant cytotoxic activity, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.62 to 1.73 mg/ml in four human lung cancer cell lines, A549, H1264, H1299, and Calu-6, irrespective of their p53 status. We also demonstrate that pinecone water extract induces apoptosis associated with caspase-3 activation in the same cancer cell lines. Chemical investigation of the pinecone water extract revealed eight main components (1 - 8), and their structures were identified as dehydroabietic acid (1), 15-hydroxy-7-oxodehydroabietic acid (2), 7β,15-dihydroxydehydroabietic acid (3), β-d-glucopyranosyl labda-8(17,13)-diene-(15,16)-lactone-19-oate (4), 7α,15-dihydroxydehydroabietic acid (5), (+)-(1S,2S,4R)-limonene-1,2-diol (6), sobrerol (7), and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (8). These findings suggest a novel biological application of P. koraiensis pinecones in combatting human lung cancer, and further identify the major compounds that could contribute to this anticancer activity.