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Nechchadi H, Nadir Y, Benhssaine K, Alem C, Sellam K, Boulbaroud S, Berrougui H, Ramchoun M. Hypolipidemic activity of phytochemical combinations: A mechanistic review of preclinical and clinical studies. Food Chem 2024; 459:140264. [PMID: 39068825 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the blood, poses a significant risk factor for various health disorders, notably cardiovascular diseases. Phytochemical compounds are promising alternatives to the current lipid-lowering drugs, which cause many undesirable effects. Based on in vivo and clinical studies, combining phytochemicals with other phytochemicals, prebiotics, and probiotics and their encapsulation in nanoparticles is more safe and effective for managing hyperlipidemia than monotherapy. To this end, the results obtained and the mechanisms of action of these combinations were examined in detail in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habiba Nechchadi
- Department of Biology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco.
| | - Youssef Nadir
- Laboratory of Biological Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Khalid Benhssaine
- Department of Biology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Chakib Alem
- Biochemistry of Natural Products Team, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Moulay Ismail University, 52000 Errachidia, Morocco
| | - Khalid Sellam
- Biology, Environment and Health Team, Faculty of sciences and Techniques, Moulay Ismail University, 52000 Errachidia, Morocco
| | - Samira Boulbaroud
- Department of Biology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Hicham Berrougui
- Department of Biology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Mhamed Ramchoun
- Department of Biology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, University Sultan Moulay Slimane, 23000 Beni Mellal, Morocco
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Liu SS, Yu T, Qiao YF, Gu SX, Chai XL. Research on Hepatocyte Regulation of PCSK9-LDLR and Its Related Drug Targets. Chin J Integr Med 2024; 30:664-672. [PMID: 36913119 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-023-3545-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of hyperlipidemia has increased significantly due to genetic, dietary, nutritional and pharmacological factors, and has become one of the most common pathological conditions in humans. Hyperlipidemia can lead to a range of diseases such as atherosclerosis, stroke, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, diabetes, and kidney failure, etc. High circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is one of the causes of hyperlipidemia. LDL-C in the blood binds to LDL receptor (LDLR) and regulates cholesterol homeostasis through endocytosis. In contrast, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) mediates LDLR degradation via the intracellular and extracellular pathways, leading to hyperlipidemia. Targeting PCSK9-synthesizing transcription factors and downstream molecules are important for development of new lipid-lowering drugs. Clinical trials regarding PCSK9 inhibitors have demonstrated a reduction in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events. The purpose of this review was to explore the target and mechanism of intracellular and extracellular pathways in degradation of LDLR and related drugs by PCSK9 in order to open up a new pathway for the development of new lipid-lowering drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Su Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Tong Yu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Yan-Fang Qiao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Shu-Xiao Gu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China
| | - Xin-Lou Chai
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102401, China.
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Khayatan D, Zare K, Khanahmadi M, Momtaz S, Butler AE, Jamialahmadi T, Almahmeed W, Abdolghaffari AH, Sahebkar A. The role of natural products as PCSK9 modulators: A review. Phytother Res 2024. [PMID: 38899632 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
A variety of mechanisms and drugs have been shown to attenuate cardiovascular disease (CVD) onset and/or progression. Recent researchers have identified a potential role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in modulating lipid metabolism and reducing plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. PCSK9 is the central protein in the metabolism of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) owing to its major function in LDL receptor (LDLR) degradation. Due to the close correlation of cardiovascular disease with lipid levels, many in vivo and in vitro investigations are currently underway studying the physiological role of PCSK9. Furthermore, many studies are actively investigating the mechanisms of various compounds that influence lipid associated-disorders and their associated cardiovascular diseases. PCSK9 inhibitors have been shown to have significant impact in the prevention of emerging cardiovascular diseases. Natural products can effectively be used as PCSK9 inhibitors to control lipid levels through various mechanisms. In this review, we evaluate the role of phytochemicals and natural products in the regulation of PCSK9, and their ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, we describe their mechanisms of action, which have not to date been delineated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Khayatan
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Zare
- School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanahmadi
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, and Toxicology and Diseases Group, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amir Hossein Abdolghaffari
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Han L, Wu L, Yin Q, Li L, Zheng X, Du S, Huang X, Bai L, Wang Y, Bian Y. A promising therapy for fatty liver disease: PCSK9 inhibitors. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155505. [PMID: 38547616 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatty liver disease (FLD) poses a significant global health concern worldwide, with its classification into nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) contingent upon the presence or absence of chronic and excessive alcohol consumption. The absence of specific therapeutic interventions tailored to FLD at various stages of the disease renders its treatment exceptionally arduous. Despite the fact that FLD and hyperlipidemia are intimately associated, there is still debate over how lipid-lowering medications affect FLD. Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/ Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a serine protease predominantly synthesized in the liver, which has a crucial impact on cholesterol homeostasis. Research has confirmed that PCSK9 inhibitors have prominent lipid-lowering properties and substantial clinical effectiveness, thereby justifying the need for additional exploration of their potential role in FLD. PURPOSE Through a comprehensive literature search, this review is to identify the relationship and related mechanisms between PCSK9, lipid metabolism and FLD. Additionally, it will assess the pharmacological mechanism and applicability of PCSK9 inhibitors (including naturally occurring PCSK9 inhibitors, such as conventional herbal medicines) for the treatment of FLD and serve as a guide for updating the treatment protocol for such conditions. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using several electronic databases, including Pubmed, Medline, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang database and ClinicalTrials.gov, from the inception of the database to 30 Jan 2024. Key words used in the literature search were "fatty liver", "hepatic steatosis", "PCSK9", "traditional Chinese medicine", "herb medicine", "botanical medicine", "clinical trial", "vivo", "vitro", linked with AND/OR. Most of the included studies were within five years. RESULTS PCSK9 participates in the regulation of circulating lipids via both LDLR dependent and independent pathways, and there is a potential association with de novo lipogenesis. Major clinical studies have demonstrated a positive correlation between circulating PCSK9 levels and the severity of NAFLD, with elevated levels of circulating PCSK9 observed in individuals exposed to chronic alcohol. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of PCSK9 inhibitors to ameliorate non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), potentially completely alleviate liver steatosis, and diminish liver impairment. In animal experiments, PCSK9 inhibitors have exhibited efficacy in alleviating alcoholic induced liver lipid accumulation and hepatitis. Traditional Chinese medicine such as berberine, curcumin, resveratrol, piceatannol, sauchinone, lupin, quercetin, salidroside, ginkgolide, tanshinone, lunasin, Capsella bursa-pastoris, gypenosides, and Morus alba leaves are the main natural PCS9 inhibitors. Excitingly, by inhibiting transcription, reducing secretion, direct targeting and other pathways, traditional Chinese medicine exert inhibitory effects on PCSK9, thereby exerting potential FLD therapeutic effects. CONCLUSION PCSK9 plays an important role in the development of FLD, and PCSK9 inhibitors have demonstrated beneficial effects on lipid regulation and FLD in both preclinical and clinical studies. In addition, some traditional Chinese medicines have improved the disease progression of FLD by inhibiting PCSK9 and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Consequently, the inhibition of PCSK9 appears to be a promising therapeutic strategy for FLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhu Han
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Liuyun Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Qinan Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Lian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Xingyue Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Shan Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Xuefei Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Lan Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Organ Transplantation, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Yuan Bian
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
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Giannessi L, Lupo MG, Rossi I, Martina MG, Vilella A, Bodria M, Giuliani D, Zimetti F, Zanotti I, Potì F, Bernini F, Ferri N, Radi M. Identification of 4-amino-2-Pyridones as new potent PCSK9 inhibitors: From phenotypic hit discovery to in vivo tolerability. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116063. [PMID: 38160616 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Among the strategies to overcome the underperformance of statins in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the development of drugs targeting the Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin-like Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is considered one of the most promising. However, only anti-PCSK9 biological drugs have been approved to date, and orally available small-molecules for the treatment of hypercholesterolemic conditions are still missing on the market. In the present work, we describe the application of a phenotypic approach to the identification and optimization of 4-amino-2-pyridone derivatives as a new chemotype with anti-PCSK9 activity. Starting from an in-house collection of compounds, functional assays on HepG2 cells followed by a chemistry-driven hit optimization campaign, led to the potent anti-PCSK9 candidate 5c. This compound, at 5 μM, totally blocked PCSK9 secretion from HepG2 cells, significantly increased LDL receptor (LDLR) expression, and acted cooperatively with simvastatin by reducing its induction of PCSK9 expression. Finally, compound 5c also proved to be well tolerated in C57BL/6J mice at the tested concentration (40 mg/kg) with no sign of toxicity or behavior modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Giannessi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Rossi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 351131, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Martina
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonietta Vilella
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Martina Bodria
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Zanotti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neuroscience, University of Parma, 43125, Parma, Italy
| | - Franco Bernini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, 35129, Italy.
| | - Marco Radi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy.
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6
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Lu F, Li E, Yang X. The association between circulatory, local pancreatic PCSK9 and type 2 diabetes mellitus: The effects of antidiabetic drugs on PCSK9. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19371. [PMID: 37809924 PMCID: PMC10558357 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a potent modulator of cholesterol metabolism and plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of pancreatic islets and the progression of diabetes. Islet autocrine PCSK9 deficiency can lead to the enrichment of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR) and excessive LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) uptake, subsequently impairing the insulin secretion in β-cells. Circulatory PCSK9 levels are primarily attributed to hepatocyte secretion. Notably, anti-PCSK9 strategies proposed for individuals with hypercholesterolemia chiefly target liver-derived PCSK9; however, these anti-PCSK9 strategies have been associated with the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM). In the current review, we highlight a new direction in PCSK9 inhibition therapy strategies: screening candidates for anti-PCSK9 from the drugs used in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment. We explored the association between circulating, local pancreatic PCSK9 and T2DM, as well as the relationship between PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies and NODM. We discussed the emergence of artificial and natural drugs in recent years, exhibiting dual benefits of antidiabetic activity and PCSK9 reduction, confirming that the diverse effects of these drugs may potentially impact the progression of diabetes and associated disorders, thereby introducing novel avenues and methodologies to enhance disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyuan Lu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, China
| | - En Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450014, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, China
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Rizzo M, Colletti A, Penson PE, Katsiki N, Mikhailidis DP, Toth PP, Gouni-Berthold I, Mancini J, Marais D, Moriarty P, Ruscica M, Sahebkar A, Vinereanu D, Cicero AFG, Banach M, Al-Khnifsawi M, Alnouri F, Amar F, Atanasov AG, Bajraktari G, Banach M, Gouni-Berthold I, Bhaskar S, Bielecka-Dąbrowa A, Bjelakovic B, Bruckert E, Bytyçi I, Cafferata A, Ceska R, Cicero AF, Chlebus K, Collet X, Daccord M, Descamps O, Djuric D, Durst R, Ezhov MV, Fras Z, Gaita D, Gouni-Berthold I, Hernandez AV, Jones SR, Jozwiak J, Kakauridze N, Kallel A, Katsiki N, Khera A, Kostner K, Kubilius R, Latkovskis G, John Mancini G, David Marais A, Martin SS, Martinez JA, Mazidi M, Mikhailidis DP, Mirrakhimov E, Miserez AR, Mitchenko O, Mitkovskaya NP, Moriarty PM, Mohammad Nabavi S, Nair D, Panagiotakos DB, Paragh G, Pella D, Penson PE, Petrulioniene Z, Pirro M, Postadzhiyan A, Puri R, Reda A, Reiner Ž, Radenkovic D, Rakowski M, Riadh J, Richter D, Rizzo M, Ruscica M, Sahebkar A, Serban MC, Shehab AM, Shek AB, Sirtori CR, Stefanutti C, Tomasik T, Toth PP, Viigimaa M, Valdivielso P, Vinereanu D, Vohnout B, von Haehling S, Vrablik M, Wong ND, Yeh HI, Zhisheng J, Zirlik A. Nutraceutical approaches to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A position paper from the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP). Pharmacol Res 2023; 189:106679. [PMID: 36764041 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a common condition affecting around 10-25% of the general adult population, 15% of children, and even > 50% of individuals who have type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a major cause of liver-related morbidity, and cardiovascular (CV) mortality is a common cause of death. In addition to being the initial step of irreversible alterations of the liver parenchyma causing cirrhosis, about 1/6 of those who develop NASH are at risk also developing CV disease (CVD). More recently the acronym MAFLD (Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease) has been preferred by many European and US specialists, providing a clearer message on the metabolic etiology of the disease. The suggestions for the management of NAFLD are like those recommended by guidelines for CVD prevention. In this context, the general approach is to prescribe physical activity and dietary changes the effect weight loss. Lifestyle change in the NAFLD patient has been supplemented in some by the use of nutraceuticals, but the evidence based for these remains uncertain. The aim of this Position Paper was to summarize the clinical evidence relating to the effect of nutraceuticals on NAFLD-related parameters. Our reading of the data is that whilst many nutraceuticals have been studied in relation to NAFLD, none have sufficient evidence to recommend their routine use; robust trials are required to appropriately address efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 141, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Colletti
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Peter E Penson
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool, UK
| | - Niki Katsiki
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece; School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Dimitri P Mikhailidis
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Campus, Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Peter P Toth
- The Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, Baltimore, MD, USA; Preventive Cardiology, CGH Medical Center, Sterling, IL, USA
| | - Ioanna Gouni-Berthold
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine, University of Cologne, Germany
| | - John Mancini
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David Marais
- Chemical Pathology Division of the Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town Health Science Faculty, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Patrick Moriarty
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Division of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Dragos Vinereanu
- Cardiology Department, University and Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Arrigo Francesco Giuseppe Cicero
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular disease risk research center, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Poland; Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Lodz, Poland; Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland.
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8
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Panighel G, Ferrarese I, Lupo MG, Sut S, Dall'Acqua S, Ferri N. Investigating the in vitro mode of action of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) as hypocholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant food. FOOD CHEMISTRY: MOLECULAR SCIENCES 2022; 5:100126. [PMID: 35937040 PMCID: PMC9352527 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2022.100126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Okra leaf butanol extract and fruit extract induce the LDLR expression in human hepatoma cell line Huh7. Okra leaf butanol extract reduced the mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in THP1-derived macrophages. Okra fruit extract showed a sequestering ability of cholic acid providing an additional mechanism of hypocholesterolemic activity. Leaf ethyl acetate extract exerted significant antioxidant activity with IC50 comparable to ascorbic acid.
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) have been introduced as food relatively recently in Europe. It is native to India and one of the most important vegetables in Nigeria. The leaves can be consumed but also the fruit is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds (i.e., dietary fiber, vitamins, oils, polysaccharides, polyphenols) and several health promoting actions have been ascribed, including a lipid-lowering properties. In this work the effects of fruit and leaf extracts on expression of key mediators of cholesterol metabolism, i.e., the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), were investigated in human hepatoma cell line Huh7. Furthermore, effects on proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) expressed by THP1-derived macrophages were studied to assess potential anti-inflammatory actions. Okra fruit extract significantly induced the mRNA and protein levels of the LDLR by 1.4 ± 0.3 and 4.8 ± 1.5-fold, respectively without any significant modification of PCSK9 expression. In addition, fruit extract showed a significant sequestering ability of cholic acid. Leaf butanol extract exerted similar action by inducing the expression of both the LDLR (+3.1 ± 1.6-fold vs control) and PCSK9 (+1.3 ± 0.4-fold vs control). The evaluation of the potential anti-inflammatory effect revealed a significant action of leaf butanol extract with reduced mRNA levels of IL-1β (−28 ± 8 % vs control), IL-6 (−11 ± 1 % vs control) and TNF-α (−43 ± 8 % vs control), while fruit extract did not show any anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, leaf ethyl acetate extract showed a significant antioxidant capacity comparable to ascorbic acid. Taken together, we provided evidence that leaf butanol extract and, more effectively, fruit extract induced the LDLR expression, effect that may explain the previously reported hypocholesterolemic action of okra. In addition, okra’s extracts reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines from THP1-derived macrophages, an effect that may suggest a vascular protective action of okra.
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Zulkapli R, Yusof MYPM, Abd Muid S, Wang SM, Firus Khan AY, Nawawi H. A Systematic Review on Attenuation of PCSK9 in Relation to Atherogenesis Biomarkers Associated with Natural Products or Plant Bioactive Compounds in In Vitro Studies: A Critique on the Quality and Imprecision of Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12878. [PMID: 36232177 PMCID: PMC9566180 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
A systematic review was performed to identify all the related publications describing PCSK9 and atherogenesis biomarkers attenuation associated with a natural product and plant bioactive compounds in in vitro studies. This review emphasized the imprecision and quality of the included research rather than the detailed reporting of the results. Literature searches were conducted in Scopus, PubMed, and Science Direct from 2003 until 2021, following the Cochrane handbook. The screening of titles, abstracts, and full papers was performed by two independent reviewers, followed by data extraction and validity. Study quality and validity were assessed using the Imprecision Tool, Model, and Marker Validity Assessment that has been developed for basic science studies. A total of 403 articles were identified and 31 of those that met the inclusion criteria were selected. 13 different atherogenesis biomarkers in relation to PCSK9 were found, and the most studied biomarkers are LDLR, SREBP, and HNF1α. In terms of quality, our review suggests that the basic science study in investigating atherogenesis biomarkers is deficient in terms of imprecision and validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahayu Zulkapli
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera Mohd Yusof
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suhaila Abd Muid
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Seok Mui Wang
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Al’Aina Yuhainis Firus Khan
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hapizah Nawawi
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
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Lupo MG, Brilli E, De Vito V, Tarantino G, Sut S, Ferrarese I, Panighel G, Gabbia D, De Martin S, Dall’Acqua S, Ferri N. In Vitro and In Vivo Sucrosomial® Berberine Activity on Insulin Resistance. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14173595. [PMID: 36079851 PMCID: PMC9459874 DOI: 10.3390/nu14173595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Berberine is a natural alkaloid with hypoglycemic properties. However, its therapeutic use is limited by a very low oral bioavailability. Here we developed a new oral formulation of berberine based on Sucrosomial® technology and tested its effect on insulin resistance. Methods: Sucrosomial® berberine was first tested in vitro in the hepatoma cell line Huh7 to assess its effect on proteins involved in glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. The pharmacokinetics and efficacy on insulin resistance were then studied in C57BL/6 mice fed with standard (SD) and high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks and treated daily during the last 8 weeks with oral gavage of Sucrosomial® berberine or berberine. Results: Sucrosomial® berberine did not affect Huh7 cell viability at concentrations up to 40 µM. Incubation of Huh7 with 20 µM of Sucrosomial® and control berberine induced glucokinase (GK) and the phosphorylation of 5′-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), both known targets for the control of insulin resistance. In vivo, we observed an 8-fold higher plasma concentration after 3 weeks of oral administration of 50 mg/kg/day of Sucrosomial® formulation compared to berberine. HFD, compared to SD, induced insulin resistance in mice as determined by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The treatment with a 6.25 mg/kg/daily dose of Sucrosomial® berberine significantly reduced the area under the curve (AUC) of OGTT (73,103 ± 8645 vs. 58,830 ± 5597 mg/dL × min), while control berberine produced the same effects at 50 mg/Kg/day (51518 ± 1984 mg/dL × min). Under these conditions, the two formulations resulted in similar berberine plasma concentration in mice. Nevertheless, a different tissue distribution of metabolites was observed with a significant accumulation of reduced, demethylated and glucuronide berberine in the brain after the oral administration of the Sucrosomial® form. Glucuronide berberine plasma concentration was higher with Sucrosomial® berberine compared to normal berberine. Finally, we observed similar increases of AMPK phosphorylation in the liver in response to the treatment with Sucrosomial® berberine and berberine. Conclusions: The Sucrosomial® formulation is an innovative and effective technology to improve berberine gastrointestinal (GI) absorption with proven in vitro and in vivo activity on insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Brilli
- R&D Department, PharmaNutra S.p.A., 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Irene Ferrarese
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Panighel
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall’Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-8275080
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The Activity of Ten Natural Extracts Combined in a Unique Blend to Maintain Cholesterol Homeostasis-In Vitro Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073805. [PMID: 35409162 PMCID: PMC8998641 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypercholesterolemia is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and statins, the HMGCoA inhibitors, are the most prescribed drugs. Statins reduce the production of hepatic cholesterol, leading to greater expression of the LDL receptor and greater absorption of circulating LDL, reducing peripheral LDL levels. Unfortunately, statins are believed to induce myopathy and other severe diseases. To overcome this problem, safe nutraceuticals with the same activity as statins could hold great promise in the prevention and treatment of hypercholesterolemia. In this study, the anti-cholesterol efficacy of a new nutraceutical, called Esterol10®, was evaluated. METHODS HepG2 cells were used to study the biological mechanisms exerted by Esterol10® analyzing different processes involved in cholesterol metabolism, also comparing data with Atorvastatin. RESULTS Our results indicate that Esterol10® leads to a reduction in total hepatocyte cholesterol and an improvement in the biosynthesis of free cholesterol and bile acids. Furthermore, the anti-cholesterol activity of Esterol10® was also confirmed by the modulation of the LDL receptor and by the accumulation of lipids, as well as by the main intracellular pathways involved in the metabolism of cholesterol. CONCLUSIONS Esterol10® is safe and effective with anti-cholesterol activity, potentially providing an alternative therapy to those based on statins for hypercholesterolemia disease.
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Ma CY, Shi XY, Wu YR, Zhang Y, Yao YH, Qu HL, Zhang W, Guo YL, Xu RX, Li JJ. Berberine attenuates atherosclerotic lesions and hepatic steatosis in ApoE -/- mice by down-regulating PCSK9 via ERK1/2 pathway. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1517. [PMID: 34790723 PMCID: PMC8576642 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-8106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background It has been demonstrated that berberine (BBR), a kind of alkaloid derived from Chinese herbal medicine, has multiple pharmacological effects on human’s diseases including anti-atherosclerosis action. However, although the previous studies showed that the beneficial impact of BBR on atherosclerosis might be associated with proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), the exact underlying mechanism are not fully determined. The present study aimed to investigate potential mechanisms of anti-atherosclerosis by BBR using ApoE-/- mice. Methods The eight-week mice were divided into five groups: group 1 (wild type C57BL/6J mice with normal diet), group 2 (ApoE-/- mice with normal diet), group 3 [ApoE-/- mice with high-fat diet (HFD)], group 4 (ApoE-/- mice with HFD, and treatment with low dose BBR of 50 mg/kg/d), and group 5 (ApoE-/- mice with HFD, and treatment with high dose BBR of 100 mg/kg/d). After a 16-week treatment, the blood sample, aorta and liver were collected for lipid analysis, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) or oil red O staining, and Western blotting respectively. Besides, HepG2 Cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of BBR (0, 5, 25 and 50 µg/mL) for 24 hours. Subsequently, cells were collected for real-time PCR or western blotting assays. Finally, the expression levels of PCSK9, LDL receptor (LDLR), ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1), and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) were examined. Results Fifty mg/kg/d and 100 mg/kg/d of BBR decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level. Moreover, BBR reduced aorta atherosclerotic plaque, and ameliorated lipid deposition in ApoE-/- mice fed with HFD. Finally, in vitro study showed that BBR promoted intracellular cholesterol efflux, up-regulated LDLR and down-regulated PCSK9 expression via the ERK1/2 pathway in cultured HepG2 cells. Conclusions Data indicated that BBR significantly attenuated lipid disorder, reduced aortic plaque formation, and alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation in ApoE-/- mice fed with HFD, which was associated with down-regulation of PCSK9 through ERK1/2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Shi
- Division of Endocrinology, Beijing Chaoyang Integrative Medicine Emergency Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ru Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Lin Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Lin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rui-Xia Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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PCSK9 Induces Rat Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Counteracts the Pleiotropic Effects of Simvastatin. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084114. [PMID: 33923431 PMCID: PMC8073479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human atherosclerotic plaque contains smooth muscle cells (SMCs) negative for the contractile phenotype (α-smooth muscle actin) but positive for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Thus, we generated rat SMCs which overexpressed human PCSK9 (SMCsPCSK9) with the aim of investigating the role of PCSK9 in the phenotype of SMCs. PCSK9 overexpression in SMCsPCSK9 led to a significant downregulation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (Ldlr) as well as transgelin (Sm22α), a marker of the contractile phenotype. The cell proliferation rate of SMCsPCSK9 was significantly faster than that of the control SMCs (SMCspuro). Interestingly, overexpression of PCSK9 did not impact the migratory capacity of SMCs in response to 10% FCS, as determined by Boyden's chamber assay. Expression and activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (Hmgcr) was significantly increased in the presence of PCSK9, both in SMCPCSK9 and after treatment with recombinant PCSK9. The transcriptional activity of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) was also increased in the presence of PSCK9, suggesting a direct role of PCSK9 in the control of SRE-responsive genes, like HMGCR. We also observed that cholesterol biosynthesis is elevated in SMCPCSK9, potentially explaining the increased proliferation observed in these cells. Finally, concentration-dependent experiments with simvastatin demonstrated that SMCsPCSK9 were partially resistant to the antiproliferative and antimigratory effect of this drug. Taken together, these data further support a direct role of PCSK9 in proliferation, migration, and phenotypic changes in SMCs-pivotal features of atherosclerotic plaque development. We also provide new evidence on the role of PCSK9 in the pharmacological response to statins-gold standard lipid-lowering drugs with pleiotropic action.
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Chen C, Mohamad Razali UH, Saikim FH, Mahyudin A, Mohd Noor NQI. Morus alba L. Plant: Bioactive Compounds and Potential as a Functional Food Ingredient. Foods 2021; 10:foods10030689. [PMID: 33807100 PMCID: PMC8004891 DOI: 10.3390/foods10030689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Morus alba L. (M. alba) is a highly adaptable plant that is extensively incorporated in many traditional and Ayurveda medications. Various parts of the plant, such as leaves, fruits, and seeds, possess nutritional and medicinal value. M. alba has abundant phytochemicals, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, anthocyanins, macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and volatile aromatic compounds, indicating its excellent pharmacological abilities. M. alba also contains high nutraceutical values for protein, carbohydrates, fiber, organic acids, vitamins, and minerals, as well as a low lipid value. However, despite its excellent biological properties and nutritional value, M. alba has not been fully considered as a potential functional food ingredient. Therefore, this review reports on the nutrients and bioactive compounds available in M. alba leaves, fruit, and seeds; its nutraceutical properties, functional properties as an ingredient in foodstuffs, and a microencapsulation technique to enhance polyphenol stability. Finally, as scaling up to a bigger production plant is needed to accommodate industrial demand, the study and limitation on an M. alba upscaling process is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Centhyea Chen
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.C.); (U.H.M.R.)
| | - Umi Hartina Mohamad Razali
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.C.); (U.H.M.R.)
| | - Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim
- Institute of Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (F.H.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Azniza Mahyudin
- Institute of Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (F.H.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Nor Qhairul Izzreen Mohd Noor
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.C.); (U.H.M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-19-7920816
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Naturally Occurring PCSK9 Inhibitors. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12051440. [PMID: 32429343 PMCID: PMC7284437 DOI: 10.3390/nu12051440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic, epidemiological and pharmacological data have led to the conclusion that antagonizing or inhibiting Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) reduces cardiovascular events. This clinical outcome is mainly related to the pivotal role of PCSK9 in controlling low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. The absence of oral and affordable anti-PCSK9 medications has limited the beneficial effects of this new therapeutic option. A possible breakthrough in this field may come from the discovery of new naturally occurring PCSK9 inhibitors as a starting point for the development of oral, small molecules, to be used in combination with statins in order to increase the percentage of patients reaching their LDL-cholesterol target levels. In the present review, we have summarized the current knowledge on natural compounds or extracts that have shown an inhibitory effect on PCSK9, either in experimental or clinical settings. When available, the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles of the listed compounds are described.
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16
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Cholesterol-Lowering Action of a Novel Nutraceutical Combination in Uremic Rats: Insights into the Molecular Mechanism in a Hepatoma Cell Line. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020436. [PMID: 32050453 PMCID: PMC7071245 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Appropriate nutraceutical combinations may represent a valid approach to prevent vascular calcification associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In the present study, we tested the effect of a new nutraceutical combination named RenaTris®, containing MK-7, magnesium carbonate, and Sucrosomial® Iron, on vascular calcification in uremic rats. Rats were randomly divided into three groups, i.e. control (high-phosphate diet), uremic (high-phosphate diet containing 0.5% adenine), and supplemented uremic diet (0.5% adenine, MK-7, magnesium carbonate, and Sucrosomial® Iron). After six weeks, sera and vascular calcification were examined. The uremic diet increased creatinine and phosphate levels and induced extensive vascular calcification. The uremic condition also induced a mild hypercholesterolemic condition (+52% of total cholesterol; p < 0.05). The supplemented uremic diet did not reduce creatinine, phosphate levels, or vascular calcification, however, we observed a significant hypocholesterolemic effect (-18.9% in supplemental uremic vs. uremic diet; p < 0.05). Similar to simvastatin, incubation of cultured human hepatoma cells (Huh7) with MK-7 significantly reduced cholesterol biosynthesis (-38%) and induced 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) at both mRNA and protein levels. The effect of MK-7 on LDLR was counteracted by the co-incubation with squalene. Unlike simvastatin, MK-7 reduced PCSK9 in Huh7. These results indicated that the new nutraceutical combination significantly impacts cholesterol metabolism and its supplementation may help to control mild hypercholesterolemic conditions in CKD patients.
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Micucci M, Bolchi C, Budriesi R, Cevenini M, Maroni L, Capozza S, Chiarini A, Pallavicini M, Angeletti A. Antihypertensive phytocomplexes of proven efficacy and well-established use: Mode of action and individual characterization of the active constituents. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2020; 170:112222. [PMID: 31810054 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2019.112222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension has become the leading risk factor for worldwide cardiovascular diseases. Conventional pharmacological treatment, after both dietary and lifestyle changes, is generally proposed. In this review, we present the antihypertensive properties of phytocomplexes from thirteen plants, long ago widely employed in ethnomedicines and, in recent years, increasingly evaluated for their activity in vitro and in vivo, also in humans, in comparison with synthetic drugs acting on the same systems. Here, we focus on the demonstrated or proposed mechanisms of action of such phytocomplexes and of their constituents proven to exert cardiovascular effects. Almost seventy phytochemicals are described and scientifically sound pertinent literature, published up to now, is summarized. The review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of these natural substances in the treatment of the 'high normal blood pressure' or 'stage 1 hypertension', so-named according to the most recent European and U.S. guidelines, and as a supplementation in more advanced stages of hypertension, however needing further validation by clinical trial intensification.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Micucci
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro, 6, 40126, Italy
| | - C Bolchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - R Budriesi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro, 6, 40126, Italy
| | - M Cevenini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Maroni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Capozza
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro, 6, 40126, Italy
| | - A Chiarini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro, 6, 40126, Italy
| | - M Pallavicini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - A Angeletti
- Unit of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, S.Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna Italy
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