Crocin protects cardiomyocytes against LPS-Induced inflammation

Melatonin: A potential protective multifaceted force for sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition manifested by organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Lung, brain, liver, kidney, and heart are among the affected organs. Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy is a common cause of death among septic patients. Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy is characterized by an acute and reversible significant decline in biventricular both systolic and diastolic function. This is accompanied by left ventricular dilatation. The pathogenesis underlying sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy is multifactorial. Hence, targeting an individual pathway may not be effective in halting the extensive dysregulated immune response. Despite major advances in sepsis management strategies, no effective pharmacological strategies have been shown to treat or even reverse sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. Melatonin, namely, N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, is synthesized in the pineal gland of mammals and can also be produced in many cells and tissues. Melatonin has cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-tumor activity. Several literature reviews have explored the role of melatonin in preventing sepsis-induced organ failure. Melatonin was found to act on different pathways that are involved in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. Through its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity, it offers a potential role in sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. Its antioxidant activity is through free radical scavenging against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and modulating the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Melatonin anti-inflammatory activities control the overactive immune system and mitigate cytokine storm. Also, it mitigates mitochondrial dysfunction, a major mechanism involved in sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, and thus controls apoptosis. Therefore, this review discusses melatonin as a promising drug for the management of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy.

HYDROGEN PREVENTS LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED PULMONARY MICROVASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL CELL INJURY BY INHIBITING STORE-OPERATED Ca 2+ ENTRY REGULATED BY STIM1/ORAI1

ABSTRACT

Background: Sepsis is a type of life-threatening organ dysfunction that is caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. The lung is the most vulnerable target organ under septic conditions. Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) play a critical role in acute lung injury (ALI) caused by severe sepsis. The impairment of PMVECs during sepsis is a complex regulatory process involving multiple mechanisms, in which the imbalance of calcium (Ca 2+ ) homeostasis of endothelial cells is a key factor in its functional impairment. Our preliminary results indicated that hydrogen gas (H 2 ) treatment significantly alleviates lung injury in sepsis, protects PMVECs from hyperpermeability, and decreases the expression of plasma membrane stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), but the underlying mechanism by which H 2 maintains Ca 2+ homeostasis in endothelial cells in septic models remains unclear. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanism of STIM1 and Ca 2+ release-activated Ca 2+ channel protein1 (Orai1) regulation by H 2 treatment and explore the effect of H 2 treatment on Ca 2+ homeostasis in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PMVECs and LPS-challenged mice. Methods: We observed the role of H 2 on LPS-induced ALI of mice in vivo . The lung wet/dry weight ratio, total protein in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and Evans blue dye assay were used to evaluate the pulmonary endothelial barrier damage of LPS-challenged mice. The expression of STIM1 and Orai1 was also detected using epifluorescence microscopy. Moreover, we also investigated the role of H 2 -rich medium in regulating PMVECs under LPS treatment, which induced injury similar to sepsis in vitro . The expression of STIM1 and Orai1 as well as the Ca 2+ concentration in PMVECs was examined. Results:In vivo , we found that H 2 alleviated ALI of mice through decreasing lung wet/dry weight ratio, total protein in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and permeability of lung. In addition, H 2 also decreased the expression of STIM1 and Orai1 in pulmonary microvascular endothelium. In vitro , LPS treatment increased the expression levels of STIM1 and Orai1 in PMVECs, while H 2 reversed these changes. Furthermore, H 2 ameliorated Ca 2+ influx under sepsis-mimicking conditions. Treatment with the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ adenosine triphosphatase inhibitor, thapsigargin, resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability as well as a reduction in the expression of junctional proteins, including vascular endothelial-cadherin and occludin. Treatment with the store-operated Ca 2+ entry inhibitor, YM-58483 (BTP2), increased the cell viability and expression of junctional proteins. Conclusions: The present study suggested that H 2 treatment alleviates LPS-induced PMVEC dysfunction by inhibiting store-operated Ca 2+ entry mediated by STIM1 and Orai1 in vitro and in vivo .

Protective effects of Dioscin against sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy via regulation of toll-like receptor 4/MyD88/p65 signal pathway

BACKGROUND

Dioscin has many pharmacological effects; however, its role in sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) is unknown. Accordingly, we concentrate on elucidating the mechanism of Dioscin in SIC rat model.

METHODS

The SIC rat and H9c2 cell models were established by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction. The heart rate (HR), left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and heart weight index (HWI) of rats were evaluated. The myocardial tissue was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) level in myocardial tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) activities in serum samples of rats and H9c2 cells were determined by colorimetric assay. Bax, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), phosphorylated-p65 (p-p65), and p65 levels in myocardial tissues of rats and treated H9c2 cells were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot. Viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation of treated H9c2 cells were assayed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and dihydroethidium staining assays.

RESULTS

Dioscin decreased HR and HWI, increased LVEF and MAP, alleviated the myocardial tissue damage, and reduced 4-HNE level in SIC rats. Dioscin reversed LPS-induced reduction on SOD, CAT, GSH, and Bcl-2 levels, and increment on Bax and TLR4 levels in rats and H9c2 cells. Overexpressed TLR4 attenuated the effects of Dioscin on promoting viability, as well as dwindling TLR4, ROS and MyD88 levels, and p-p65/p65 value in LPS-induced H9c2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Protective effects of Dioscin against LPS-induced SIC are achieved via regulation of TLR4/MyD88/p65 signal pathway.

Research progress on the pharmacological activity, biosynthetic pathways, and biosynthesis of crocins

Crocins are water-soluble apocarotenoids isolated from the flowers of crocus and gardenia. They exhibit various pharmacological effects, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, hepatorenal protection, and anticancer activity. They are often used as coloring and seasoning agents. Due to the limited content of crocins in plants and the high cost of chemical synthesis, the supply of crocins is insufficient to meet current demand. The biosynthetic pathways for crocins have been elucidated to date, which allows the heterologous production of these valuable compounds in microorganisms by fermentation. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the chemistry, pharmacological activity, biosynthetic pathways, and heterologous production of crocins, aiming to lay the foundation for the large-scale production of these valuable natural products by using engineered microbial cell factories.

Investigation of the effects of crocin on inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, NF-κB, TLR-4 and Nrf-2/HO-1 pathways in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

The primary limitation of gentamicin (Gm) treatment is its potential to induce nephrotoxicity, which can restrict both its duration and efficacy. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of Crocin (Cr) against Gm-induced nephrotoxicity and its underlying mechanisms, including inflammation, apoptosis, TLR-4, Nrf-2/HO-1 pathways. 36 Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups for the study. Group I received only saline. Groups II and III were administered 25 and 50 mg/kg of crocin, respectively. Group IV was treated with 80 mg/kg of Gm. Groups V and VI received 25 and 50 mg/kg of crocin, respectively, in addition to Gm administration. Crocin demonstrated protective effects on kidney tissue. It down-regulated the genes NF-κB, COX-2, TLR-4, Bax, and Caspase-3, while up-regulating Bcl-2, Nrf-2, and HO-1. In conclusion, these findings hold promise for the prevention of Gm-induced nephrotoxicity through the modulation of the Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway.

Investigating the individual and combined effects of coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C on CLP-induced cardiac injury in rats

Sepsis-induced cardiac injury represents a major clinical challenge, amplifying the urgency for effective therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to delve into the individual and combined prophylactic effects of Vitamin C (Vit C) and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) against inflammatory heart injury in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) induced polymicrobial sepsis rat model. Thirty adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: Control, CLP, Vitamin C, CoQ10, and Vit C + CoQ10, each consisting of six rats. Treatments were administered orally via gavage for 10 days prior to the operation. Eighteen hours post-sepsis induction, the animals were euthanized, and specimens were collected for analysis. The study examined variations in oxidative (TOS, OSI, MDA, MPO) and antioxidative markers (TAS, SOD, CAT, GSH), histopathological changes, inflammatory cytokine concentrations (TNF-α, IL-1β), nitric oxide (NO) dynamics, and cardiac indicators such as CK-MB. Impressively, the combined regimen markedly diminished oxidative stress, and antioxidative parameters reflected notable enhancements. Elevated NO levels, a central player in sepsis-driven inflammatory cascades, were effectively tempered by our intervention. Histological examinations corroborated the biochemical data, revealing diminished cardiac tissue damage in treated subjects. Furthermore, a marked suppression in pro-inflammatory cytokines was discerned, solidifying the therapeutic potential of our intervention. Interestingly, in certain evaluations, CoQ10 exhibited superior benefits over Vit C. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential therapeutic promise of Vit C and CoQ10 combination against septic cardiac injuries in rats.

Metabolic signatures in post-myocardial infarction heart failure, including insights into prediction, intervention, and prognosis

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent long-term complication of myocardial infarction (MI). The incidence of post-MI HF is high, and patients with the condition have a poor prognosis. Accurate identification of individuals at high risk for post-MI HF is crucial for implementation of a protective and ideally personalized strategy to prevent fatal events. Post-MI HF is characterized by adverse cardiac remodeling, which results from metabolic changes in response to long-term ischemia. Moreover, various risk factors, including genetics, diet, and obesity, can influence metabolic pathways in patients. This review focuses on the metabolic signatures of post-MI HF that could serve as non-invasive biomarkers for early identification in high-risk populations. We also explore how metabolism participates in the pathophysiology of post-MI HF. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of metabolites as novel targets for treatment of post-MI HF and as biomarkers for prognostic evaluation. It is expected to provide valuable suggestions for the clinical prevention and treatment of post-MI HF from a metabolic perspective.

Crocin alleviates neurotoxicity induced by bupivacaine in SH-SY5Y cells with inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling

BACKGROUND

Bupivacaine, a common local anesthetic, can cause neurotoxicity and permanent neurological disorders. Crocin has been widely reported as a potential neuroprotective agent in neural injury models.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of crocin underlying bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity.

METHOD

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with bupivacaine and/or crocin for 24 h, followed by detecting cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The effect of crocin or bupivacaine on SH-SY5Y cell proliferation was measured by Ki67 immunofluorescence assay. The levels of apoptosis-related proteins and the markers in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway were examined using western blot analysis. The activities of caspase 3, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were tested using respective commercial assay kits. Flow cytometry analysis was executed for detecting SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis.

RESULT

Crocin attenuated bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, crocin inhibited SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis induced by bupivacaine via repressing the activity of caspase-3, reducing Bax expression, and elevating Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, crocin mitigated oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells by increasing the content of CAT, SOD, GSH-Px and reducing the content of MDA. Additionally, crocin protected against bupivacaine-induced dephosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. The protective effects of crocin against bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells were counteracted by the Akt inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that crocin may exert a neuroprotective function by promoting cell proliferation and suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells. Thus, crocin might become a promising drug for the treatment of bupivacaine-induced neurotoxicity.

Sertraline associated with gold nanoparticles reduce cellular toxicity and induce sex-specific responses in behavior and neuroinflammation biomarkers in a mouse model of anxiety

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sertraline associated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in vitro cell viability and in vivo behavior and inflammatory biomarkers in a mouse model of anxiety. Sertraline associated with AuNPs were synthesized and characterized. For the in vitro study, NIH3T3 and HT-22 cells were treated with different doses of sertraline, AuNPs, and sertraline + AuNPs and their viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. For the in vivo study, pregnant Swiss mice were administered a single dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the ninth day of gestation. The female and male offspring were divided into five treatment groups on PND 60 and administered chronic treatment for 28 days. The animals were subjected to behavioral testing and were subsequently euthanized. Their brains were collected and analyzed for inflammatory biomarkers. Sertraline associated with AuNPs exhibited significant changes in surface characteristics and increased diameters. Different doses of sertraline + AuNPs showed higher cell viability in NIH3T3 and HT-22 cells compared with sertraline alone. The offspring of LPS-treated dams exhibited anxiety-like behavior and neuroinflammatory biomarker changes during adulthood, which were ameliorated via sertraline + AuNPs treatment. The treatment response was sex-dependent and brain region-specific. These results suggest that AuNPs, which demonstrate potential to bind to other molecules, low toxicity, and reduced inflammation, can be synergistically used with sertraline to improve drug efficacy and safety by decreasing neuroinflammation and sertraline toxicity.

Circ_0040994 depletion alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced HK2 cell injury through miR-17-5p/TRPM7 axis

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a fatal systemic inflammatory disease that causes septic acute kidney injury (AKI). In this work, we explored the roles of circ_0040994 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human kidney-2 (HK2) cell injury.

METHODS

Circ_0040994, miR-17-5p and transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) expression were detected by qRT-PCR. Cell functions were examined by MTT assay, flow cytometry assay, western blot, ELISA assay, and oxidative stress assay. The molecular association was detected by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Circ_0040994 was upregulated in the serum of septic AKI patients in comparison with the serum of healthy controls. Silencing circ_0040994 enhanced cell viability but inhibited cell apoptosis, cell inflammation and oxidative stress in LPS-triggered HK2 cells. Circ_0040994 acted as a miR-17-5p sponge to regulate the level of TRPM7. Moreover, miR-17-5p could alleviate LPS-induced HK2 cell injury by suppressing TRPM7.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0040994 downregulation alleviated LPS-induced HK2 cell injury through the miR-17-5p/TRPM7 axis.

Biancaea decapetala (Roth) O.Deg. extract exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by regulating the TNF/Akt/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Biancaea decapetala (Roth) O.Deg. (Fabaceae) is used to treat colds, fever, and rheumatic pain caused by inflammation. However, the mechanism underlying its anti-inflammatory properties remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Biancaea decapetala extract (BDE) in vitro and in vivo and explore the possible underlying mechanism and potential targets.

METHODS

The release of nitric oxide (NO) and inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and rats were measured using Griess reagent and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was employed to examine the pathology of animal tissues. Transcriptome analysis was performed to screen the pathways related to BDE-mediated inhibition of inflammation, and the expression of related proteins was measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blotting, ELISA, and immunofluorescence methods. Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and the Drug Affinity Reaction Target Stability (DARTS) method were used to verify whether BDE binds to TNF-α target protein, while a L929 cell model and NF-κB gene reporter systematic method were used to investigate the inhibitory effect of BDE on the activity of TNF-α protein.

RESULTS

BDE inhibited the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NO in RAW264.7 cells and rats, and improved the pathological changes in lung tissue. RNA-seq showed that BDE may regulate the TNF/Akt/NF-κB pathway to inhibit inflammation onset. BDE significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and that of relevant proteins, including TNF-α, p-p65, p-Akt, p-IκBα. Furthermore, BDE inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB (p65) and the activation of the Akt pathway by SC79. The L929 cell model, luciferase reporter gene analysis, DARTS, and SPR experiments showed that BDE may bind to TNF-α and inhibit the TNF-α-NF-κB pathway.

CONCLUSION

BDE may target TNF-α to inhibit the TNF/Akt/NF-κB pathway, thereby attenuating inflammation. These findings reveal the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of BDE and provide a theoretical basis for the further development and utilization of BDE.

Effect of saffron, black seed, and their main constituents on inflammatory cytokine response (mainly TNF-α) and oxidative stress status: an aspect on pharmacological insights

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammatory cytokine, is produced by monocytes and macrophages. It is known as a 'double-edged sword' because it is responsible for advantageous and disadvantageous events in the body system. The unfavorable incident includes inflammation, which induces some diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, cancer, and diabetes. Many medicinal plants have been found to prevent inflammation, such as saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and black seed (Nigella sativa). Therefore, the purpose of this review was to assess the pharmacological effects of saffron and black seed on TNF-α and diseases related to its imbalance. Different databases without time limitations were investigated up to 2022, including PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Web of Science. All the original articles (in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies) were collected on the effects of black seed and saffron on TNF-α. Black seed and saffron have therapeutic effects against many disorders, such as hepatotoxicity, cancer, ischemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver, by decreasing TNF-α levels based on their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Saffron and black seed can treat a variety of diseases by suppressing TNF-α and exhibiting a variety of activities such as neuroprotective, gastroprotective, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, antitussive, bronchodilator, antidiabetic activity, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. To uncover the beneficial underlying mechanisms of black seed and saffron, more clinical trials and phytochemical research are required. Also, these two plants affect other inflammatory cytokines, hormones, and enzymes, implying that they could be used to treat a variety of diseases.

Active ingredients Isorhamnetin of Croci Srigma inhibit stomach adenocarcinomas progression by MAPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Gastric cancer (GC) remains the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, and ninety-five percent of GC are stomach adenocarcinomas (STAD). The active ingredients of Croci Stigma, such as Isorhamnetin, Crocin, Crocetin and Kaempferol, all have antitumor activity. However, their chemical and pharmacological profiles remain to be elusive. In this study, network pharmacology was used to characterize the action mechanism of Croci Stigma. All compounds were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and active ingredients were selected by their oral bioavailability and drug-likeness index. The targets of Croci Stigma active ingredients were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine integrated database (TCMID), whereas the related genes of STAD were obtained from DisGeNET platform. Cytoscape was used to undertake visual analyses of the Drug Ingredients-Gene Symbols-Disease (I-G-D) network, and 2 core genes including MAPK14, ERBB3 were obtained, which are the predicted targets of isorhamnetin (IH) and quercetin, respectively. Data analysis from TCGA platform showed that MAPK14 and ERBB3 all upregulated in STAD patients, but only the effect of MAPK14 expression on STAD patients' survival was significant. Molecular docking showed that IH might affect the function of MAPK14 protein, and then the underlying action mechanisms of IH on STAD were experimentally validated using human gastric cancer cell line, HGC-27 cells. The results showed that IH can inhibit cell proliferation, migration, clonal formation, and arrest cell cycle, but promote the apoptosis of HGC-27 cells. qRT-PCR data demonstrated that IH downregulated the MAPK14 mRNA expression and EMT related genes. WB results showed that IH regulates MAPK/mTOR signaling pathway. These findings suggest that IH has the therapeutic potential for the treatment of STAD.

Accelerating synergistic effects of preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells with Crocin and dexamethasone in pulmonary epithelial cells injury

Chemical warfare victims suffer from bronchiolitis and chronic pulmonary obstruction caused by sulfur mustard (SM) toxicity. Despite the mesenchymal stem cells capacity to alleviate inflammation, their low survival rate under oxidative stress severely limits their effectiveness. This study aimed to examine how natural (Crocin) and synthetic (Dexamethasone) antioxidants might affect MSC efficacy. MSCs were treated with the optimal doses of Crocin (Cr.), Dexamethasone (Dex.), and their combination. The A549 cells line was pretreated with the optimal dose of the CEES to mimic the lung disease. Then, the affected A549 cells were exposed to the preconditioned MSCs and conditioned media, and then their survival rates were estimated by MTTor2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Annexin-V PI apoptosis test was conducted for MSCs and A549 cells. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) assay and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test demonstrated the percentage of production of ROS and the cytokines levels in A549/CEES, respectively. The results revealed significant increases in Cr. + Dex. treated MSCs (P < .01) and A549 cells treated with MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex (P < .01) groups' survival. The apoptosis rate and ROS production were reduced in the MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex. Also, considerable decreases in IL-1β (P < .01) and IL-6 (P < .01) and a significant increase in IL-10 (P < .05) in treated A549/CEES by Cr/Dex and MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex supported the synergistic effects of Crocin and Dexamethasone.

Tirzepatide attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway

BACKGROUNDS

Sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction is a leading cause of mortality in intensive care units. Tirzepatide, a dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist, possess cardio-protective, their effects on sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy remain unknown.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice received subcutaneous injections of tirzepatide once a day for 14 days before subjected to LPS challenge for 12 h. LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction and its potential mechanisms were estimated by pathological analysis, echocardiographic measurement, electrocardiography, langendorff-perfused heart and molecular analysis.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with tirzepatide attenuates LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction. tirzepatide remarkably reduces LPS-mediated inflammatory responses by inhibiting  the cardiac protein levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1B in mice. Interestingly, tirzepatide administration also improves cardiomyocytes apoptosis caused by LPS treatment. Furthermore, the protective roles of irzepatide against LPS-mediated increased inflammatory responses and decreased cardiomyocytes apoptosis are partially blunted by inhibiting TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 inflammation signaling. In addition, tirzepatide reduce the susceptibility ventricular arrhythmia in LPS-treated mice.

CONCLUSION

In brief, tirzepatide attenuates LPS-induced left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-kB/NLRP3 pathway.

Boswellia serrata inhibits LPS-induced cardiotoxicity in H9c2 cells: Investigating role of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction is the main reason for mortality and morbidity. Recent investigations have shown that inflammation and oxidative stress play a central role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiac injury pathophysiology. Gum-resin extracts of Boswellia serrata have been traditionally used in folk medicine for centuries to treat various chronic inflammatory diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of B. serrata pretreatment on LPS-induced cardiac damage in H9c2 cells. The cells were pretreated with various concentrations of B. serrata (5-45 μg/ml) for 24 h and then stimulated with LPS (10 μg/ml) for another 24 h. Afterward, the levels of cell viability, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, prostaglandin (PGE)-2, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione (GSH) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), real time-PCR or appropriated biochemical methods. Our results demonstrated that LPS treatment caused a remarkable decrease in cell viability and GSH, and on the contrary, it led to a significant increase in the levels of gene and protein expression of inflammatory markers and NO. However, pretreatment of B. serrata (5, 15, and 45 μg/ml) decreased the levels of TNF-α, PGE2, IL-1β, COX-2, iNOS, IL-6, and NO production, while cell viability and GSH levels were increased. Taken together, our results demonstrated that B. serrata might be a potential therapeutic agent against LPS and endotoxemia-induced cardiac injury, through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Crocin suppresses breast cancer cell proliferation by down-regulating tumor promoter miR-122-5p and up-regulating tumor suppressors FOXP2 and SPRY2

Crocin has been reported to have antitumor activity in several tumors including breast cancer. Nevertheless, the mechanism of action of crocin on breast cancer remains unclear. The cytotoxicity of crocin was evaluated by CCK-8 assay. Cell proliferation was assessed using EdU incorporation assay and western blot analysis. Breast cancer-related genes were extracted from GEPIA. miR-122-5p targets were predicted using Targetscan, starbase, and miRDB softwares. Luciferase reporter assay was employed to confirm whether miR-122-5p targeted sprouty2 (SPRY2) and forkhead box P2 (FOXP2). Results showed that crocin exhibited cytotoxicity and suppressed the proliferation in breast cancer cells. miR-122-5p was upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cells. Crocin suppressed miR-122-5p to block the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Seven targets of miR-122-5p were identified in breast cancer. SPRY2 and FOXP2 were selected for further experiments due to their involvement in breast cancer. miR-122-5p targeted SPRY2 and FOXP2 to inhibit their expression. miR-122-5p knockdown restrained breast cancer cell proliferation by targeting SPRY2 and FOXP2. Additionally, crocin increased SPRY2 and FOXP2 expression by inhibiting miR-122-5p expression. Together, our results suggested that crocin inhibited proliferation of breast cancer cells through decreasing miR-122-5p expression and the subsequent increase of SPRY2 and FOXP2 expression.

Comparative study on the impacts of visnagin and its methoxy derivative khellin on human lymphocyte proliferation and Th1/Th2 balance

BACKGROUND

Visnagin is a phenolic and natural compound in turmeric and fenugreek, and its anti-inflammatory effect has been indicated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate and compare the anti-inflammatory properties of visnagin and its methoxy derivative khellin on human lymphocytes.

METHODS

Human lymphocytes were treated with khellin, visnagin (10, 30, and 100 µM), and dexamethasone (0.1 mM) in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA). The levels of cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and MDA/GSH ratio were measured using biochemistry methods. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-10 were assessed using real-time PCR, while IFN-γ/IL-4(Th₁/Th₂), IFN-γ/IL-10(Th₁/T_reg), and IL-4/IL-10(Th₂/T_reg) ratios were made by dividing their exact values.

RESULTS

In the PHA-stimulated group, GSH and IFN-γ/IL-4 levels were markedly diminished, but other variables were significantly elevated compared to the control group. Khellin and visnagin significantly declined the levels of cell proliferation, MDA, MDA/GSH ratio, and NO production. Khellin and visnagin concentration-dependently diminished IFN-γ and IL-4 levels and increased IL-10 levels compared to the PHA-stimulated group. Two higher concentrations of khellin and visnagin (30 and 100 μM) considerably diminished the IFN-γ, IFN-γ/IL-10, and IL-4/IL-10 values compared to the PHA-stimulated group. However, 100 µM of khellin and visnagin significantly increased GSH level compared to the PHA-stimulated group.

CONCLUSIONS

In PHA-stimulated lymphocytes, representing Th₂ dominant allergic diseases, khellin and visnagin provides more specific anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory functions than dexamethasone. In addition, the effects of khellin were more prominent than visnagin.

Spices and Biomarkers of COVID-19: A Mechanistic and Therapeutic Perspective

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people around the world have increased their healthy behaviors to prevent transmission of the virus and potentially improve their immune systems. Therefore, the role of diet and food compounds such as spices with bioactive and antiviral properties may be important in these efforts. In this chapter, we review the efficacy of spices such as turmeric (curcumin), cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, saffron, capsaicin, and cumin by investigating the effects of these compounds of COVID-19 disease severity biomarkers.

Three months of combination therapy with nano-curcumin reduces the inflammation and lipoprotein (a) in type 2 diabetic patients with mild to moderate coronary artery disease: Evidence of a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. Systemic inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)) and lipid metabolism disruption (lipoprotein A, LipoPr (a)) play a critical role in developing and progressing atherosclerosis and acute coronary syndrome in diabetic patients. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin have been emphasized previously. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the impact of nano-curcumin on cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetic patients with mild to moderate coronary artery disease (CAD). We performed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial with type 2 diabetic patients (n = 64), and mild to moderate CAD (<70% stenosis in angiography). The patients received nano-curcumin (80 mg/day) or placebo along with optimal medications for 90 days. The biofactors, including hs-CRP and LipoPr (a), and lipid profile, were measured at the admission of patients and end of the study. Nano-curcumin significantly mitigated the hs-CRP and LipoPr (a) levels following 90 days of treatment (P < 0.001 and P = 0.043, respectively). In addition, the mean percentage of change (%Δ) in the hs-CRP and LipoPr (a) levels were meaningfully reduced in the nano-curcumin group compared to the placebo group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). Surprisingly, nano-curcumin notably propagated the number of patients with mild (34.35%) and moderate (62.5%) hs-CRP level category and strikingly diminished the number of patients with severe hs-CRP level category (3.125%) compared to the placebo group (P = 0.016). Nano-curcumin (80 mg/day) might prevent atherosclerosis progression and, in terms of attenuating hs-CRP levels as an inflammation index, succedent cardiovascular events in diabetic heart patients.

A comprehensive and mechanistic review on protective effects of kaempferol against natural and chemical toxins: Role of NF-κB inhibition and Nrf2 activation

Different toxins, including chemicals and natural, can be entered from various routes and influence human health. Herbal medicines and their active components can attenuate the toxicity of agents via multiple mechanisms. For example, kaempferol, as a flavonoid, can be found in fruits and vegetables, and has an essential role in improving disorders such as cardiovascular disorders, neurological diseases, cancer, pain, and inflammation situations. The beneficial effects of kaempferol may be related to the inhibition of oxidative stress, attenuation of inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) as well as the modulation of apoptosis and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. This flavonoid boasts a wide spectrum of toxin targeting effects in tissue fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress thus shows promising protective effects against natural and chemical toxin induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, lung, and intestinal in the in vitro and in vivo setting. The most remarkable aspect of kaempferol is that it does not focus its efforts on just one organ or one molecular pathway. Although its significance as a treatment option remains questionable and requires more clinical studies, it seems to be a low-risk therapeutic option. It is crucial to emphasize that kaempferol's poor bioavailability is a significant barrier to its use as a therapeutic option. Nanotechnology can be a promising way to overcome this challenge, reviving optimism in using kaempferol as a viable treatment agent against toxin-induced disorders.

Protective role of crocin against sepsis-induced injury in the liver, kidney and lungs via inhibition of p38 MAPK/NF-κB and Bax/Bcl-2 signalling pathways

CONTEXT

Crocin has been reported to have multiple bioactivities. However, the effect of crocin administration on caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of crocin on CLP-induced sepsis in mice and the underlying mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five experimental groups (n = 10) of BALB/c mice were used: control, CLP (normal saline) and CLP + crocin (50, 100 and 250 mg/kg, 30 min prior to CLP). Mice were sacrificed 24 h after CLP. Liver, kidney and lung histopathology, indicator levels, apoptotic status, pro-inflammatory cytokines and relative protein levels were evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared to the CLP group, crocin treatment significantly increased the survival rate (70%, 80%, 90% vs. 30%). Crocin groups exhibited protection against liver, kidney and lung damage with mild-to-moderate morphological changes and lower indicator levels: liver (2.80 ± 0.45, 2.60 ± 0.55, 1.60 ± 0.55 vs. 5.60 ± 0.55), kidney (3.00 ± 0.71, 2.60 ± 0.55, 1.40 ± 0.55 vs. 6.20 ± 0.84) and lungs (8.00 ± 1.59, 6.80 ± 1.64, 2.80 ± 0.84 vs. 14.80 ± 1.79). The proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 levels in the crocin groups) were distinctly lower and the apoptotic index showed a significant decrease. Crocin administration significantly suppressed p38 MAPK phosphorylation and inhibited NF-κB/IκBα and Bcl-2/Bax activation.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Pre-treatment with crocin confers protective effects against CLP-induced liver, kidney and lung injury, implying it to be a potential therapeutic agent.

High throughput screen of small molecules as potential countermeasures to galactic cosmic radiation induced cellular dysfunction

Space travel increases galactic cosmic ray exposure to flight crews and this is significantly elevated once travel moves beyond low Earth orbit. This includes combinations of high energy protons and heavy ions such as ⁵⁶Fe or ¹⁶O. There are distinct differences in the biological response to low-energy transfer (x-rays) or high-energy transfer (High-LET). However, given the relatively low fluence rate of exposure during flight operations, it might be possible to manage these deleterious effects using small molecules currently available. Virtually all reports to date examining small molecule management of radiation exposure are based on low-LET challenges. To that end an FDA approved drug library (725 drugs) was used to perform a high throughput screen of cultured cells following exposure to galactic cosmic radiation. The H9c2 myoblasts, ES-D3 pluripotent cells, and Hy926 endothelial cell lines were exposed to a single exposure (75 cGy) using the 5-ion GCRsim protocol developed at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL). Following GCR exposure cells were maintained for up to two weeks. For each drug (@10µM), a hierarchical cumulative score was developed incorporating measures of mitochondrial and cellular function, oxidant stress and cell senescence. The top 160 scores were retested following a similar protocol using 1µM of each drug. Within the 160 drugs, 33 are considered to have an anti-inflammatory capacity, while others also indirectly suppressed pro-inflammatory pathways or had noted antioxidant capacity. Lead candidates came from different drug classes that included angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or AT1 antagonists, COX2 inhibitors, as well as drugs mediated by histamine receptors. Surprisingly, different classes of anti-diabetic medications were observed to be useful including sulfonylureas and metformin. Using a hierarchical decision structure, we have identified several lead candidates. That no one drug or even drug class was completely successful across all parameters tested suggests the complexity of managing the consequences of galactic cosmic radiation exposure.

Promising influences of gingerols against metabolic syndrome: A mechanistic review

Metabolic syndrome is an inflammatory disorder characterized by diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Globally, this disease is increasing, especially in developed countries. Supposedly, herbal treatments for this disease likely have fewer adverse effects than chemical medications. Thus, they can be suitable options among the available chemical treatments. Ginger has been used as a spice and medicinal plant in traditional medicine and cooking. This herbal compound and its derivatives, such as 6-gingerol, have shown promising effects on various molecular aspects of metabolic syndrome. In this study, we reviewed and discussed the significant impacts of gingerol, a derivative of ginger, on metabolic syndrome through various mechanisms. The benefits of 6-gingerol include its effects on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which prevent diabetes, lipid regulating effect (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, PPARs), as well as its effects on enzymes and proteins preventing hyperlipidemia caused by a high-fat diet. In addition, 6-gingerol has anti-atherosclerosis and anti-hypertension effects through several molecular mechanisms. The current review will discuss various effects of 6-gingerol on molecular pathways involved in diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, and hypertension as characterizing features of metabolic syndrome and suggests that 6-gingerol can be a potential treatment agent for metabolic syndrome and shed light on a higher requirement for more pre-clinical and clinical investigations.

Crocin molecular signaling pathways at a glance: A comprehensive review

Crocin is a hydrophilic carotenoid that is synthesized in the flowers of the Crocus genus. Numerous in vitro and in vivo research projects have been published about the biological and pharmacological properties and toxicity of crocin. Crocin acts as a memory enhancer, anxiolytic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant, neuroprotective, and so on. Here, we introduce an updated and comprehensive review of crocin molecular mechanisms based on previously examined and mentioned in the literature. Different studies confirmed the significant effect of crocin to control pathological conditions, including oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. The neuroprotective effect of crocin could be related to the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Notch, and cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein signaling pathways. The crocin also protects the cardiovascular system through the inhibitory effect on toll-like receptors. The regulatory effect of crocin on PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMP-activated protein kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor pathways can play an effective role in the treatment of metabolic disorders. The crocin has anticancer activity through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK, vascular endothelial growth factor, Wnt/β-catenin, and Janus kinases-signal transducer and activator of transcription suppression. Also, the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and p53 signaling pathway activation may be effective in the anticancer effect of crocin. Finally, among signaling pathways regulated by crocin, the most important ones seem to be those related to the regulatory effect on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Synergistic impacts of Montelukast and Klotho against doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in Rats

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a powerful antitumor agent with a well-known cardiaotoxic side effects. In the current study, the ameliorative combined impacts of montelukast (Mont) and Klotho against doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity were examined. Fifty-six adult male rats (2 months age and weighting 150–200 g) were grouped into 7 groups (8 rats per group). Animals received doxorubicin alone or in combination with either Mont or Klotho. After 2 weeks of treatments, serum samples were examined to assess the changes in cardiac activity biomarkers such as LDH, CK-MB, cardiac troponin-I (cTn-I), and heart fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP). Serum changes of IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and caspase-3 levels were assayed. The oxidative stress biomarkers such as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and inflammatory (rat IL-1β and rat TNF-α,) and anti-inflammatory (rat IL-10) cytokines were examined. Heart histology and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) immunoreactivity were measured. DOX induced cardiomyopathy, which was reflected by the increases in all examined cardiac parameters. Real-time PCR confirmed that DOX upregulated the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β and decreased the expression of IL-10. Moreover, DOX showed marked elevation in the ST segment T wave complex, causing profound tachycardia. Heart histology assessments showed cardiac cell necrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, interstitial congestion, and increased TGF-β1 immunoreactivity. Montelukast and Klotho administration ameliorated all the altered parameters when administered alone or in combination to DOX-intoxicated rats. Klotho was more effective compared with montelukast in terms of reductions in heart rate, ST segment T wave complex elevation, cardiac enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase; LDH, creatine kinase-MB; CK-MB, cardiac troponin I; cTn-I, heart fatty acid binding protein; H-FABP) cardiac histology, and caspase-3 levels and increases in TAC activity. Montelukast was more effective in reducing serum levels of IL6 and iNOS, expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, and the upregulation of IL-10 expression. The co-administration of both drugs led to significantly more synergistic results in terms of reducing cardiac toxicity. In conclusion, montelukast and Klotho either alone or in combination were confirmed to be effective in suppressing DOX-induced cardiac toxicity in rats.

Evaluation of Crocin Effect on Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Following Coronary Angiography or Angioplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the third cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury. The CIN prophylactic strategies adopted to date, although not highly efficient, are mostly based on antioxidant activity and hydration therapy. This study was designed and conducted to evaluate crocin’s efficacy in the prevention of CIN in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing coronary angiography/angioplasty. In this randomized clinical trial, a total of 110 eligible CKD stage 3 patients requiring contrast agent administration for coronary angiography/angioplasty were enrolled and randomly assigned to either crocin (n = 57) or control (n = 53) group. The patients in both groups received standard hydration therapy; nevertheless, in the crocin group, the patients were also orally administered three consecutive oral doses of 30 mg crocin tablets 1 day before up to 1 day after contrast media (CM) exposure. The primary endpoint was CIN incidence defined as an increase in serum creatinine (SrCr) level by ≥ 0.3 mg/dL or any change in urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) from the baseline within 48 hours of CM exposure. During 4 months, 130 patients were recruited. The mean age of the patients was 65.62 ± 9.05 years, and the majority of them were male (64.54%). The SrCr in the crocin group did not significantly increase within 48 hours of angiography/angioplasty. The changes in the urinary NGAL level were not significant in both groups. The CIN incidence was significantly lower in the crocin group than in the control group (1.75% and 13.2%; P = 0.028). Crocin administration plays an important nephron-protective role in the prevention of CIN.

Safety Assessment and Pain Relief Properties of Saffron from Taliouine Region (Morocco)

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. In addition to its culinary utilization, this spice is used for medicinal purposes such as in pain management. In this study, the analgesic activity of Crocus sativus stigma extract (CSSE) was evaluated in rodents and its possible physiological mechanism was elucidated. The anti-nociceptive effect of CSSE was evaluated using three animal models (hot plate, writhing, and formalin tests). The analgesic pathways involved were assessed using various analgesia-mediating receptors antagonists. The oral administration of CSSE, up to 2000 mg/kg, caused no death or changes in the behavior or in the hematological and biochemical blood parameters of treated animals nor in the histological architecture of the animals’ livers and kidneys. CSSE showed a central, dose-dependent, anti-nociceptive effect in response to thermal stimuli; and a peripheral analgesic effect in the test of contortions induced by acetic acid. The dual (central and peripheral) analgesic effect was confirmed by the formalin test. The anti-nociceptive activity of CSSE was totally or partially reversed by the co-administration of receptor antagonists, naloxone, atropine, haloperidol, yohimbine, and glibenclamide. CSSE influenced signal processing, by the modulation of the opioidergic, adrenergic, and muscarinic systems at the peripheral and central levels; and by regulation of the dopaminergic system and control of the opening of the ATP-sensitive K⁺ channels at the spinal level. The obtained data point to a multimodal mechanism of action for CSSE: An anti-inflammatory effect and a modulation, through different physiological pathways, of the electrical signal generated by the nociceptors. Further clinical trials are required to endorse the potential utilization of Moroccan saffron as a natural painkiller.

Chrysophanol exerts a protective effect against sepsis-induced acute myocardial injury through modulating the microRNA-27b-3p/Peroxisomal proliferating-activated receptor gamma axis

Sepsis, a leading contributor to the death of inpatients, results in severe organ dysfunction as complications. The heart is one of the major organs attacked by sepsis, and the effective control of the inflammatory cascade reaction in sepsis is of great significance in alleviating sepsis-associated acute myocardial injury (S-AMI). Chrysophanol, a natural anthraquinone, has been discovered to carry anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this paper is to probe the impact of Chrysophanol on S-AMI. An S-AMI model was engineered in rats via CLP. Pathological alterations in the myocardial tissues of rats were monitored. qRT-PCR, ELISA, and western blot measured the profiles of miR-27b-3p, Peroxisomal proliferating-activated receptor gamma (PPARG), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8), and inflammatory response proteins (NF-κB-p65, MAPK-p38, JNK1/2). Besides, miR-27b-3p mimics were transfected into cardiomyocytes, and the proliferation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes were examined through MTT and flow cytometry. As evidenced by the experimental outcomes, chrysophanol suppressed sepsis-mediated acute myocardial injury and LPS-mediated apoptosis in myocardial cells and lessened the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory response proteins. Moreover, chrysophanol cramped miR-27b-3p expression and heightened PPARG expression. miR-27b-3p targeted PPARG and restrained its expression. On the other hand, the PPARG agonist (RGZ) partially eliminated the apoptosis and pro-inflammatory responses of myocardial cells elicited by LPS. Therefore, this study revealed that Chrysophanol guarded against sepsis-mediated acute myocardial injury through dampening inflammation and apoptosis via the miR-27b-3p-PPARG axis, adding to the references for treating sepsis-AMI.

Carnosol Attenuates LPS-Induced Inflammation of Cardiomyoblasts by Inhibiting NF-κB: A Mechanistic in Vitro and in Silico Study

Carnosol possesses several beneficial pharmacological properties. However, its role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation and cardiomyocyte cell line (H9C2) has never been investigated. Therefore, the effect of carnosol and an NF-κB inhibitor BAY 11-7082 was examined, and the underlying role of the NF-κB-dependent inflammatory pathway was analyzed as the target enzyme. Cell viability, inflammatory cytokines levels (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE2)), and related gene expression (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)) were analyzed by ELISA and real-time PCR. In addition, docking studies analyzed carnosol's molecular interactions and binding modes to NF-κB and IKK. We report that LPS caused the reduction of cell viability while enhancing both cytokines protein and mRNA levels (P < 0.001, for all cases). However, the BAY 11-7082 pretreatment of the cells and carnosol increased cell viability and reduced cytokine protein and mRNA levels (P < 0.001 vs. LPS, for all cases). Furthermore, our in silico analyses also supported the modulation of NF-κB and IKK by carnosol. This evidence highlights the defensive effects of carnosol against sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction and, contextually, paved the rationale for the next in vitro and in vivo studies aimed to precisely describe its mechanism(s) of action.

Topical Formulation of Noscapine, a Benzylisoquinoline Alkaloid, Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Skin Lesions

Psoriasis is considered an autoimmune inflammatory disease. The disease is spread and diagnosed by the infiltration of inflammatory mediators and cells into the epidermis. Recent theoretical developments have focused on the effectiveness of noscapine (NOS) as a potential alkaloid for being used as a valuable treatment for different diseases. In the present study, psoriasis-like dermatitis was induced on the right ear pinna surface of male Balb/c mice by topical application of imiquimod (IMQ) for ten consecutive days, which was treated with noscapine (0.3, 1, 3, and 10% w/v) or clobetasol (0.05% w/v) as a positive control. The levels of ear length, thickness, severity of skin inflammation, psoriatic itch, psoriasis area severity index (PASI) score, and body weight were measured daily. On the 10^th day of study, each ear was investigated for inflammation, fibrosis, proliferation, and apoptosis using histopathological (H&E and Masson's trichrome staining) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67 and p53 staining) assays. Furthermore, the levels of inflammatory biomarkers were characterized by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results confirmed IMQ-induced psoriasis for five consecutive days. In contrast, noscapine significantly reduced the ear length, thickness, severity of skin inflammation, psoriatic itch and body weight, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-17, and IL-23p19 in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.001–0.05 for all cases). Overall, topical noscapine significantly ameliorated both the macroscopical and microscopical features of psoriasis. However, further clinical investigations are required to translate the effects to clinics.

Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid (AKBA) Prevents Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation and Cytotoxicity on H9C2 Cells

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), the major component of Boswellia serrata, exhibits anti-inflammatory activities. This in vitro study investigated the protective effects of AKBA against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiac dysfunction. In this study, the H9C2 cardiomyocytes were pretreated with AKBA (2.5, 5, and 10 μM for 24 h), and then cotreated with LPS for another 24 h. The MTT assay, ELISA test kits, and quantitative real-time PCR analysis assessed the cell viability, levels of proinflammatory factors (IL-β, IL-6, TNF- α, and PGE2), and the gene expression of IL-β, IL-6, TNF- α, iNOS, and COX-2, respectively. The nitric oxide (NO) and thiol levels were also measured using a biochemical assay. The results indicated that LPS exposure markedly reduced cell viability and total thiol content, but increased the inflammatory cytokines, NO metabolites, and gene expression of proinflammatory mediators in H9C2 cells. AKBA pretreatment significantly altered the mentioned factors induced by LPS. Our results demonstrated that AKBA might be a promising therapeutic agent for treating sepsis-related cardiac dysfunction in the future.

Pterostilbene Interferes With Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Myocardial Injury Through Oxidative Stress and Inflammasome Pathways

Myocardial contractile dysfunction caused by sepsis is a serious threat to human health, and its pathogenesis is not completely clear. It is generally believed that excessive inflammation and oxidative stress are the main causes of myocardial damage caused by sepsis. Pterostilbene (PTS) has a variety of biological activities, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging. Whether PTS protect myocardial function in rats with sepsis through anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects has not been reported. In this study, we investigated the role of PTS in septic mice induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Mice were injected intraperitoneally with LPS (20 mg/kg) to simulate sepsis. Use Echocardiography, Masson, DHE, H&amp;E, IHC, IF and other experimental methods to explore the effects of PTS on LPS. The results showed that PTS was indicated to significantly increase the cardiac function of mice with sepsis. PTS treatment also reduced the mRNA expression of IL-1α, IL-6, MCP-1, and IL-1β and the protein expression of NLRP3 in vivo and in vitro, and inhibited the migration of inflammatory cells. PTS treatment also reduced the mRNA expression of collagen I, collagen III and α-SMA, and inhibited fibrosis. PTS treatment reduced the mRNA expression of NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4 and inhibited DHE levels in vivo and in vitro. In summary, our data indicated that PTS played a crucial role in LPS-induced myocardial injured and might be a key target for the prevention and treatment of sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction.

Protective Effect of Crocin on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors-Related Myocarditis Through Inhibiting NLRP3 Mediated Pyroptosis in Cardiomyocytes via NF-κB Pathway

Purpose

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)-related myocarditis is now one of the most critical immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) in tumor immunotherapy, which has raised great concern in cardio-oncology. The pathogenesis involved in cardiac injury remains elusive. Crocin, the main component of saffron, has shown distinct functions in cardioprotective and anti-inflammation properties. We therefore aimed to investigate the potential effect of crocin on the protection of ICIs-related myocarditis and its underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

We immunized the BALB/c mice with murine cardiac troponin I (cTnI) peptide and additionally gave anti-mouse programmed death 1 (PD-1) to induce the mouse model of ICIs-related myocarditis. Mice were treated with crocin at different dosages. In vitro, HL-1 cells were pre-incubated with crocin at different concentrations and then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Myocardial contractile functions, myocardial inflammation and fibrosis, and myocardial injury were assessed. The expressions of pyroptosis-related proteins and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway were evaluated.

Results

Crocin treatment could partially reverse the ICIs-related myocarditis in terms of improving heart function, ameliorating inflammation and fibrosis in the myocardium, and alleviating myocardial injury. Mechanistically, ICIs administration significantly activated pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in cardiomyocytes. Crocin treatments significantly downregulated the expression of NLRP3, cleaved gasdermin D (GSDMD), cleaved caspase1, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18. Besides, crocin inhibited the activation of NF-κB pathway, which performed as reducing the phosphorylation of p-NF-kappa-B inhibitor-α (p-IκBα), degradation of IκBα, phosphorylation of p65 and p65 DNA binding activity both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

By reversing the pyroptosis in cardiomyocytes, crocin treatment in a mouse model exerted great potential to aid in the prevention of ICIs-related myocarditis from a novel target.

Evaluation of the Effect of Crocin on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity

Despite newer advances in cancer treatment, chemotherapy is still one of the most widely used treatment strategies in this field. However, this treatment strategy faces major challenges. Doxorubicin (Dox) is an effective chemotherapeutic agent used to treat various cancers. However, several studies have shown that the use of Dox in therapeutic concentrations is associated with serious side effects, such as cardiac toxicity. The use of natural products in combination with chemotherapeutic agents to reduce side effects is a novel approach, and several studies have shown promising results. In this regard, we examined the effect of Crocin on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rat and H9c2 cell line. The in vitro model on H9C2 cells and the in vivo models on rats were treated with doxorubicin. Cell viability, DNA damage, and apoptosis were measured in H9C2 cell line in the presence and absence of Crocin. Oxidative stress and various inflammatory parameters, as well as cardiac function tests, also were assessed in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity animal model in the presence and absence of Crocin. Our results showed that Crocin can significantly decrease apoptosis in H9C2 cell line through a reduction in ROS production and DNA damages. Moreover, evaluation of the effect of Crocin on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity animal model showed that Crocin also can significantly reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters in the serum of the animals. Assessment of cardiac function revealed that Crocin has a significant protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in the animal model. Our data indicate that Crocin significantly attenuated doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Hence, Crocin could be potentially used as an adjuvant treatment in combination with Dox to reduce cardiotoxicity.

Crocin ameliorates atherosclerosis by promoting the reverse cholesterol transport and inhibiting the foam cell formation via regulating PPARγ/LXR-α

Crocin (CRO) is feasible in alleviating atherosclerosis (AS), the mechanism of which was therefore explored in the study. High-fat diet (HFD)-induced apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE^−/−) mice and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)-treated macrophages received CRO treatment. Treated macrophage viability was determined via MTT assay. In both murine and macrophage, the lipid level and total Cholesterol/Cholesteryl l Ester (TC/CE) levels were quantified by oil-red-O staining and ELISA, respectively. Lipid droplet, aortic plaque formation and collagen deposition were detected via Oil-red-O staining, hematoxylin–eosin staining and Masson staining, respectively. Liver X Receptor-α (LXR-α), Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ (PPARγ), CD68, PCSK9, CD36, ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily A Member 1 (ABCA1), phosphorylated (p)-AKT, and AKT expressions were detected via Western blot, the former three also being detected using Immunohistochemistry and the first being measured by qRT-PCR. CRO decreased HFD-induced weight gain, ameliorated the abnormal serum lipid levels of HFD-treated mice, and inhibited aortic plaque formation and lipid deposition, and increased collagen fibers, with upregulated high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and downregulated TC and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C). CRO alleviated the HFD-induced upregulations of CD68, PCSK9 and CD36 as well as downregulations of PPARγ/LXR-α, ABCA1 and AKT phosphorylation. In LPA-treated macrophages, CRO alone exerted no effect on the viability yet inhibited the lipid droplets formation and downregulated TC/CE levels. Silent LXR-α reversed the effect of CRO on the lipid droplets formation and levels of lipid metabolism-related factors. CRO ameliorated AS by inhibiting foam cells formation and promoting reverse cholesterol transport via PPARγ/LXR-α.

Intraperitoneal Lavage with Crocus sativus Prevents Postoperative-Induced Peritoneal Adhesion in a Rat Model: Evidence from Animal and Cellular Studies

Postoperative peritoneal adhesions are considered the major complication following abdominal surgeries. The primary clinical complications of peritoneal adhesion are intestinal obstruction, infertility, pelvic pain, and postoperative mortality. In this study, regarding the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Crocus sativus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of Crocus sativus on the prevention of postsurgical-induced peritoneal adhesion. Male Wistar-Albino rats were used to investigate the preventive effects of C. sativus extract (0.5%, 0.25% and 0.125% w/v) against postsurgical-induced peritoneal adhesion compared to pirfenidone (PFD, 7.5% w/v). We also investigated the protective effects of PFD (100 μg/ml) and C. sativus extract (100, 200, and 400 μg/ml) in TGF-β1-induced fibrotic macrophage polarization. The levels of cell proliferation and oxidative, antioxidative, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory, fibrosis, and angiogenesis biomarkers were evaluated both in vivo and in vitro models. C. sativus extract ameliorates postoperational-induced peritoneal adhesion development by attenuating oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA)]; inflammatory mediators [interleukin- (IL-) 6, tumour necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂)]; fibrosis [transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β1, IL-4, and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)]; and angiogenesis [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] markers, while propagating antioxidant [glutathione (GSH)], anti-inflammatory (IL-10), and fibrinolytic [tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)] markers and tPA/PAI ratio. In a cellular model, we revealed that the extract, without any toxicity, regulated the levels of cell proliferation and inflammatory (TNF-α), angiogenesis (VEGF), anti-inflammatory (IL-10), M1 [inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)] and M2 [arginase-1 (Arg 1)] biomarkers, and iNOS/Arg-1 ratio towards antifibrotic M1 phenotype of macrophage, in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, the current study indicated that C. sativus reduces peritoneal adhesion formation by modulating the macrophage polarization from M2 towards M1 cells.

Auraptene, a Monoterpene Coumarin, Inhibits LTA-Induced Inflammatory Mediators via Modulating NF-κB/MAPKs Signaling Pathways

Objective

Oxidative stress-mediated inflammatory events involve in the progress of several diseases such as asthma, cancers, and multiple sclerosis. Auraptene (AU), a natural prenyloxycoumarin, possesses numerous pharmacological activities. Here, the anti-inflammatory effects of AU were investigated in lipoteichoic acid- (LTA-) induced macrophage cells (RAW 264.7).

Methods

The expression of cyclooxygenase (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, p38 MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), heme oxygenase (HO-1), p65, and IκBα were all identified by western blotting assay. The level of nitric oxide (NO) was measured by spectrometer analysis. The nuclear translocation of p65 nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) was assessed by the confocal microscopic staining method. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was performed to perceive the activity of antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT).

Results

AU expressively reduced NO production and COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1 β, and iNOS expression in LTA-stimulated cells. AU at higher concentration (10 µM) inhibited ERK and JNK, but not p38 phosphorylation induced by LTA. Moreover, AU blocked IκB and p65 phosphorylation, and p65 nuclear translocation. However, AU pretreatment was not effective on antioxidant HO-1 expression, CAT activity, and reduced glutathione (GSH, a nonenzymatic antioxidant), in LTA-induced RAW 264.7 cells.

Conclusion

The findings of this study advocate that AU shows anti-inflammatory effects via reducing NF-κB/MAPKs signaling pathways.

MiR-702-3p inhibits the inflammatory injury in septic H9c2 cells by regulating NOD1

BACKGROUND

Cardiac insufficiency is a common complication of sepsis and septic shock and is the most common cause of death in critically ill patients. Recent studies have found that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a potential role in sepsis as markers, but little is known about their functional effects on sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC).

OBJECTIVE

This study is designed to explore the possible role and underlying mechanisms of miR-702-3p in septic cardiomyopathy.

METHODS

As expected, H9c2 cells were induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to construct the model of septic cardiomyopathy. The expression of miR-702-3p was detected by qRT-PCR assay and those of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α by ELISA assay. The viability, proliferation and apoptosis of LPS-treated H9c2 cells were determined by CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry and western blot assays. Moreover, Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 1 (NOD1) was predicted and confirmed as a direct target of miR-702-3p by TargetScan, miRwalk and miRDB prediction and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays.

RESULTS

While LPS can weaken the viability of H9c2 cells, miR-702-3p enhances that of LPS-treated H9c2 cells by inhibit the expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β. We found NOD1 is a target gene of miR-702-3p, and over-expression of NOD1 restores the inhibitory effects of miR-702-3p on the LPS-treated H9c2 cells.

CONCLUSION

MiR-702-3p played an important role in the pathogenesis of sepsis cardiomyopathy via targeting NOD1, suggesting that miR-702-3p may be a potential new target for the treatment of SIC.

COVID-19, cytokines, inflammation, and spices: How are they related?

BACKGROUND

Cytokine storm is the exaggerated immune response often observed in viral infections. It is also intimately linked with the progression of COVID-19 disease as well as associated complications and mortality. Therefore, targeting the cytokine storm might help in reducing COVID-19-associated health complications. The number of COVID-19 associated deaths (as of January 15, 2021; https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/) in the USA is high (1199/million) as compared to countries like India (110/million). Although the reason behind this is not clear, spices may have some role in explaining this difference. Spices and herbs are used in different traditional medicines, especially in countries such as India to treat various chronic diseases due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

AIM

To evaluate the literature available on the anti-inflammatory properties of spices which might prove beneficial in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 associated cytokine storm.

METHOD

A detailed literature search has been conducted on PubMed for collecting information pertaining to the COVID-19; the history, origin, key structural features, and mechanism of infection of SARS-CoV-2; the repurposed drugs in use for the management of COVID-19, and the anti-inflammatory role of spices to combat COVID-19 associated cytokine storm.

KEY FINDINGS

The literature search resulted in numerous in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials that have reported the potency of spices to exert anti-inflammatory effects by regulating crucial molecular targets for inflammation.

SIGNIFICANCE

As spices are derived from Mother Nature and are inexpensive, they are relatively safer to consume. Therefore, their anti-inflammatory property can be exploited to combat the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. This review thus focuses on the current knowledge on the role of spices for the treatment of COVID-19 through suppression of inflammation-linked cytokine storm.

Is Saffron Able to Prevent the Dysregulation of Retinal Cytokines Induced by Ocular Hypertension in Mice?

Cytokine- and chemokine-mediated signalling is involved in the neuroinflammatory process that leads to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage in glaucoma. Substances with anti-inflammatory properties could decrease these cytokines and chemokines and thus prevent RGC death. The authors of this study analysed the anti-inflammatory effect of a hydrophilic saffron extract standardized to 3% crocin content, focusing on the regulation of cytokine and chemokine production, in a mouse model of unilateral laser-induced ocular hypertension (OHT). We demonstrated that following saffron treatment, most of the concentration of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10), Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), and fractalkine were unaffected in response to laser-induced OHT in both the OHT eye and its contralateral eye. Only IL-6 levels were significantly increased in the OHT eye one day after laser induction compared with the control group. These results differed from those observed in animals subjected to unilateral OHT and not treated with saffron, where changes in cytokine levels occurred in both eyes. Therefore, saffron extract regulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines, VEGF, and fractalkine induced by increasing intraocular pressure (IOP), protecting the retina from inflammation. These results indicate that saffron could be beneficial in glaucoma by helping to reduce the inflammatory process.

Protective effects of crocin against endogenous Aβ-induced neurotoxicity in N2a/APP695swe cells

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. Because of its complex pathogenesis, the prevention and therapies of AD still are a severe challenge. Evidence suggested that crocin, the major component of saffron, exhibited neuroprotective effects in AD. As such, in this study, N2a/APP695swe cells were enrolled to investigate the effects of crocin on endogenous Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. Crocin (100 and 200 μM) could ameliorate cytotoxicity according to CCK-8 assay and reduce apoptosis in line with Hoechst 33,342 staining and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining in N2a/APP695swe cells. Reduced ROS generation and elevated MMP were found in N2a/APP695swe cells treated with crocin (100 and 200 μM). Additionally, crocin at concentrations of 100 and 200 μM inhibited the release of cytochrome and attenuated caspases-3 activity in N2a/APP695swe cells. Furthermore, succinylation, crotonylation, 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation, malonylation, and phosphorylation were significantly reduced, while a slight increase of acetylation was found in 100-μM crocin treated N2a/APP695swe cells. Taken together, crocin may be a promising natural product candidate for the effective cure of AD.

Butorphanol alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes via activation of the κ-opioid receptor

Sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction is a leading cause of the high mortality rates associated with sepsis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of butorphanol on sepsis-induced cardiomyocyte dysfunction. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce H9C2 cardiomyocytes to establish an in vitro sepsis model. The effect of butorphanol on the viability of LPS-induced H9C2 cells was analyzed using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were detected using ELISA. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression levels of inflammation-and apoptosis-related proteins. Cell apoptosis was measured using a TUNEL assay. The expression levels of κ-opioid receptor (KOR) were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis and western blotting. Following LPS induction, the levels of inflammatory cytokines and proapoptotic proteins were found to be upregulated in H9C2 cells, while butorphanol treatment downregulated these levels. The expression levels of KOR were also upregulated following butorphanol treatment in LPS-induced H9C2 cells. Addition of the KOR inhibitor, nor-binaltorphimine, alleviated the inhibitory effects of butorphanol on inflammation and apoptosis in LPS-induced H9C2 cells. In conclusion, the findings of the present study provided evidence indicating that butorphanol may alleviate LPS-induced inflammation and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by upregulating KOR expression, which may provide a novel insight into the potential therapeutic effects of butorphanol and its underlying mechanism of action.

Inhibitory effects of lactoferrin on pulmonary inflammatory processes induced by lipopolysaccharide by modulating the TLR4-related pathway

This study tested the ability of lactoferrin to modulate pulmonary inflammation. To construct in vitro and in vivo inflammatory lung models, cells from the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549) were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 µg/mL), and mice (CD-1) were intratracheally administered LPS [10 mg/kg of body weight (BW), tracheal lumen injection], respectively. The A549 cells were preincubated with lactoferrin (10 mg/mL), and the mice were intraperitoneally injected with lactoferrin (100 mg/kg of BW), followed by LPS treatment. The concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) in culture medium of A549 cells and in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the mice were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The toll-like receptor 4-related pathway (TLR4/MyD88/IRAK1/TRAF6/NFκB) was determined at gene and protein expression levels in A549 cells and mouse lung tissue. Results showed that LPS treatment significantly elevated the concentrations of IL-1β and TNF-α in the A549 cell culture medium and in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the mice; it also elevated both the mRNA and protein expressions of TLR4 and the TLR4 downstream factors in A549 cells and mouse lung tissue. Nevertheless, lactoferrin apparently depressed the releases of IL-1β and TNF-α from A549 cells and lung tissues stimulated by LPS, and significantly suppressed the TLR4 signaling pathway. Lactoferrin also promoted the enhancement of miR-146a expression in A549 cells and mouse lung tissue. Moreover, 100°C heating for 3 min caused total loss of the previously listed bioactivity of lactoferrin. Collectively, we proved that lactoferrin intervened in LPS-induced inflammation in the pulmonary cell model and in the mouse model, through inhibiting the TLR4-related pathway.

LPS promotes the progression of sepsis by activation of lncRNA HULC/miR-204-5p/TRPM7 network in HUVECs

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by infection. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been reported to induce inflammatory responses, and long non-coding RNA highly up-regulated in liver cancer (HULC) expression was associated with the progression of sepsis. But the role and underlying mechanism of HULC in LPS-induced sepsis remain unclear. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The levels of apoptosis-related proteins, inflammatory cytokines and transient receptor potential melastatin7 (TRPM7) were detected by western blot. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were detected by dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) method using commercial kit. HULC, microRNA-204-5p (miR-204-5p) and TRPM7 expressions in serum of sepsis patients and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to confirm the interaction between HULC and miR-204-5p, miR-204-5p and TRPM7. LPS stimulation restrained cell viability and facilitated apoptosis, inflammatory injury and oxidative stress in HUVECs. HULC and TRPM7 were increased and accompanied with decreased miR-204-5p expression in serum of sepsis patients. A significant negative correlation between miR-204-5p and HULC or TRPM7 was observed, and there was a positive relationship between expressions of HULC and TRPM7. Importantly, LPS inhibited the cell viability and induced apoptosis, inflammatory injury and oxidative stress of HUVECs by up-regulating the expressions of HULC and TRPM7, and down-modulating miR-204-5p expression. Mechanically, HULC positively regulated TRPM7 expression by sponging miR-204-5p in HUVECs. LPS impaired cell viability, and promoted cell apoptosis, inflammatory response and oxidative stress in HUVECs by regulating HULC/miR-204-5p/TRPM7 axis.

Dp44mT regulates the levels of inflammatory mediators through blocking NF-κB nuclear translocation in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

Inflammation is increased by infection with pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites. High levels of inflammatory mediators and infiltration of macrophages into inflammatory lesions were reported in severe inflammatory diseases. Here, the aim of this study was to evaluate an anti-inflammatory activity of di-2-pyridylketone-4,4-dimethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone (Dp44mT) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Dp44mT (1–100 ng/mL) had no effect on viability of RAW 264.7 macrophages. Dp44mT (100 ng/mL) significantly reduced LPS-induced release of nitric oxide and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2. A significant upregulation of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 by LPS stimulation was downregulated by treatment with Dp44mT. Dp44mT blocked activation of nuclear factor-κB by the interruption of IκBα phosphorylation. Dp44mT suppressed the phagocytosis. Furthermore, administration of Dp44mT significantly reduced the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in LPS-treated mice without side effects. In conclusion, these results indicate that Dp44mT has an anti-inflammatory activity and may be of therapeutic significant for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Crocin Ameliorate Doxorubicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Doxorubicin is a drug that belongs to the anthracycline antibiotics. Nephrotoxicity is one of the serious side effects of doxorubicin treatment. Crocin, which is one of the most bioactive components of saffron, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. The current study was aimed at investigating the possible protective effects of crocin against doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity to elucidate the underlying mechanism of this effect. The study included four groups, six rats in each group: normal control, crocin control, doxorubicin, and crocin/doxorubicin. Doxorubicin and crocin/doxorubicin groups received intraperitoneal injections of doxorubicin (3.5 mg/kg twice weekly for 3 weeks). Rats in the crocin control group and the crocin/doxorubicin group were treated with intraperitoneal injections of crocin (100 mg/kg body weight per day) for 3 weeks. Biomarkers of kidney function and oxidative stress as well as the abundance of mRNA for nuclear factor-κβ and inducible nitric oxide synthase were evaluated. In addition, the abundance of cyclooxygenase 2 and tumor necrosis factor α immunoreactivity was evaluated. Crocin treatment had renoprotective effects manifested by significant improvement in kidney function as well as a reduction in the abundance of biomarkers of oxidative stress markers and inflammatory mediators. In conclusion, crocin has a protective effect against doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats by serving as an antioxidant and attenuating the expression of NF-κB, iNOS, COX2, and TNFα.

The Beneficial Effects of Saffron Extract on Potential Oxidative Stress in Cardiovascular Diseases

Saffron is commonly used in traditional medicines and precious perfumes. It contains pharmacologically active compounds with notably potent antioxidant activity. Saffron has a variety of active components, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal. Oxidative stress plays an important role in many cardiovascular diseases, and its uncontrolled chain reaction is related to myocardial injury. Numerous studies have confirmed that saffron exact exhibits protective effects on the myocardium and might be beneficial in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. In view of the role of oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease, people have shown considerable interest in the potential role of saffron extract as a treatment for a range of cardiovascular diseases. This review analyzed the use of saffron in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases through antioxidant stress from four aspects: antiatherosclerosis, antimyocardial ischemia, anti-ischemia reperfusion injury, and improvement in drug-induced cardiotoxicity, particularly anthracycline-induced. Although data is limited in humans with only two clinically relevant studies, the results of preclinical studies regarding the antioxidant stress effects of saffron are promising and warrant further research in clinical trials. This review summarized the protective effect of saffron in cardiovascular diseases and drug-induced cardiotoxicity. It will facilitate pharmacological research and development and promote utilization of saffron.