Protective effects of hesperidin on oxidative stress, dyslipidaemia and histological changes in iron-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats

The Browning Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Improvement of Aged Oranges (Citrus sinensis)

Oranges contain many natural active chemicals, organic acids, and polysaccharides. Aging processing is commonly used to modify the color, quality, functional components, and stability of fruits. This study assesses the preparation of aging black oranges using various pre-treatments and solid fermentation. Oranges were aged for six weeks in fresh, non-blanching, blanching, and hot air-assisted aging cycle (AA) groups. The oranges' shrinkage ratio, color difference values, and soluble solids content changed significantly (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis indicated that aging fermentation treatment accelerated glycolysis and increased the ratio of reducing sugars. The enhanced browning can be associated with the oxidation of ascorbic acid (0.66-0.47 mg/g) and the formation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) (0.09 mg/g). Furthermore, the presence of free polyphenols led to an increase in the total polyphenol and total flavonoid content. It also had a synergistic effect with 5-HMF in increasing the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical-scavenging capacity and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power (p < 0.05). AA had superior α-glucosidase inhibitory ability increasing from 67.31 to 80.48%. It also reduced the development time by 33%. Therefore, aging technology can enhance the bioactive compounds in oranges and provide a reference for future whole-fruit aging fermentation and health product creation.

Natural compounds proposed for the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Although non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) presents as an intricate condition characterized by a growing prevalence, the often-recommended lifestyle interventions mostly lack high-level evidence of efficacy and there are currently no effective drugs proposed for this indication. The present review delves into NAFLD pathology, its diverse underlying physiopathological mechanisms and the available in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence regarding the use of natural compounds for its management, through three pivotal targets (oxidative stress, cellular inflammation, and insulin resistance). The promising perspectives that natural compounds offer for NAFLD management underscore the need for additional clinical and lifestyle intervention trials. Encouraging further research will contribute to establishing more robust evidence and practical recommendations tailored to patients with varying NAFLD grades.

Iron overload induced submandibular glands toxicity in gamma irradiated rats with possible mitigation by hesperidin and rutin

BACKGROUND

Radiation triggers salivary gland damage and excess iron accumulates in tissues induces cell injury. Flavonoids are found in some fruits and are utilized as potent antioxidants and radioprotective agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hesperidin and rutin on gamma radiation and iron overload induced submandibular gland (SMG) damage and to evaluate their possible impact on mitigating the alteration in mTOR signaling pathway and angiogenesis.

METHODS

Forty-eight adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to six groups: group C received a standard diet and distilled water; group H received hesperidin at a dose of 100 mg/kg; four times a week for four weeks; group U received rutin at a dose of 50 mg/kg; three times a week for three weeks; group RF received a single dose (5 Gy) of gamma radiation followed by iron at a dose of 100 mg/kg; five times a week for four weeks; group RFH received radiation and iron as group RF and hesperidin as group H; group RFU received radiation and iron as group RF and rutin as group U. SMG specimens from all groups were removed at the end of the experiment; and some were used for biochemical analysis, while others were fixed for histological and immunohistochemical examination.

RESULTS

In the RF group, several genes related to antioxidants (Nrf-2 and SOD) and DNA damage (BRCA1) were significantly downregulated, while several genes related to inflammation and angiogenesis (TNFα, IL-1β and VEGF) and the mTOR signaling pathway (PIK3ca, AKT and mTOR) were significantly upregulated. Acinar cytoplasmic vacuolation, nuclear pyknosis, and interacinar hemorrhage with distinct interacinar spaces were observed as histopathological changes in SMGs. The duct system suffered significant damage, eventually degenerating entirely as the cells were shed into the lumina. VEGF and NF-κB were also significantly overexpressed. Hesperidin and rutin cotreatment generated partial recovery as indicated by significant upregulation of Nrf-2, SOD and BRCA1 and considerable downregulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, VEGF, PIK3ca, AKT, and mTOR. Although some acini and ducts continued to deteriorate, most of them had a normal appearance. There was a notable decrease in the expression of VEGF and NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

In γ-irradiated rats with iron overload, the administration of hesperidin and rutin may mitigate salivary gland damage.

The renoprotective effects of hesperidin on kidney injury induced by exposure to severe chronic dust storm particulate matter through inhibiting the Smads/TGF-β1 signaling in rat

Exposure to dust storm particulate matter (PM) is detrimental to kidney tissue. In this study, the impacts of chronic intake of dusty PM were explored as a major objective in a specified compartment to make a real-like dust storm (DS) model, and the role of hesperidin (HSP) as an antioxidant on kidney tissue was assessed in rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats (200-220 g) were randomly allocated into 4 groups: CA+NS: (clean air and normal saline as a vehicle of HSP). Dusty PM and NS (DS+NS). HSP+ CA: rats received 200 mg/kg of HSP by gavage for 28 days, once daily in addition to exposure to clean air. HSP+DS: HSP plus DS. In DS groups, the animals were exposed to dust storms at a concentration of 5000-8000 μg/m3 in the chamber for 1 h daily, for 4 consecutive weeks, except Thursdays and Fridays. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed for biochemical, inflammatory, oxidative stress, molecular parameters, and histological evaluation. DS significantly enhanced blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β), and oxidative stress indexes. Likewise, a significant increase was seen in mRNA Smads, collagen-I, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expressions in the kidney. Histological findings showed contracted glomeruli and kidney structure disorder. In addition, Masson's trichrome staining demonstrated renal fibrosis. Nevertheless, HSP could significantly reverse these changes. Our data confirmed that DS results in kidney fibrosis through enhancing Smads/TGF-β1 signaling. However, HSP was able to inhibit these changes as confirmed by histological findings.

Evaluating the histomorphological and biochemical changes induced by Tributyltin Chloride on pituitary-testicular axis of adult albino rats and the possible ameliorative role of hesperidin

This study was performed to explore in detail the toxic effects of Tributyltin Chloride (TBT) on the pituitary-testicular axis and the possible amelioration with Hesperidin. Seventy-two adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: Control group (I), TBT-treated group (II), TBT+Hesperidin group (III), and Recovery group (IV). Body and testicular weights were measured. Blood samples were taken to estimate serum levels of testosterone, FSH and LH hormones by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Malondialdehyde (MDA) level was measured in testes homogenates. Tissue samples from the pituitary glands and testes were processed for light, electron microscope examination, and immunohistochemical detection of anti-FSH, and Ki67 proteins. Results showed a statistically significant decrease in testicular weight, serum testosterone, FSH and LH levels and a significant increase in tissue MDA in the TBT group when compared to the control group. TBT treatment caused severe histopathological changes with decreased area percent of PAS-stained basophils, and anti FSH immuno-stained gonadotrophs in the pituitary gland. The testes of group II also showed marked tissue damage, cell loss with decreased epithelial height and decreased number of proliferating spermatogenic cells. Hesperidin supplementation with TBT proved significant amelioration of the previously mentioned parameters in both glands which could improve male fertility. In conclusion: The flavonoid Hesperidin has the potential to protect against the reproductive damage induced by TBT in susceptible individuals.

Hesperidin mitigates oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis in nucleus pulposus cells via Nrf2/NF-κB axis to protect intervertebral disc from degeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), a widely known contributor to low back pain (LBP), has been proved to be a global health challenging conundrum. Hesperidin (hesperetin-7-O-rutinoside, HRD) is a flavanone glycoside that belongs to the subgroup of citrus flavonoids with therapeutic effect on various diseases due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties. However, the effect of HRD on IVDD remains elusive. The human nucleus pulposus tissues were harvested for isolating human nucleus pulposus (HNP) cells to verify the expression of Nrf2. The biological effect of HRD on HNP cells were assessed in vitro, and the in vivo therapeutic effects of HRD were assessed in mice. Firstly, we found that the expression of Nrf2 was decreased with the progression of degeneration in degenerated human nucleus pulposus tissue. Subsequently, we confirmed that HRD could mitigate oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis in nucleus pulposus cells via enhancing the expression of Nrf2 axis and suppressing the NF-κB pathway to protect intervertebral disc from degeneration in vitro. Finally, the therapeutic effects of HRD were confirmed in vivo. The current study proved for the first time that HRD may protect HNP cells from degeneration by suppressing ferroptosis in an oxidative stress-dependent via enhancing the expression of Nrf2 and suppressing the NF-κB pathway. The evidence will provide a possible basis for future targeted treatment for IVDD.

Effect of Vitamin E on Apoptosis of the Endothelial Cells of the Carotid Arteries in Hypercholesterolemic Male Rabbits

INTRODUCTION

Cardiovascular disease is the principal cause of mortality and morbidity in developed countries, leading to the formation of atherosclerosis plaques and thrombosis. Apoptosis of endothelial cells is one of the primary factors in vascular thrombosis. Lipids, when oxidized by endothelial cells, result in an increased thickness of the arterial wall. Iron is also recognized as an atherogenic element that induces atherosclerosis. There remains uncertainty about the antioxidative role of vitamin E in the formation of atherosclerosis. In this study, the authors evaluated the effect of iron and vitamin E on the apoptosis of endothelial cells in the carotid arteries of hypercholesterolemic male rabbits.

METHOD

Thirty white male rabbits were randomly divided into five groups and fed the following diet for six weeks: Group 1: control, Group 2: cholesterol (1%), Group 3: cholesterol (1%) + vitamin E (50 mg/kg), Group 4: cholesterol (1%) + Iron (50 mg/kg), and Group 5: cholesterol (1%) + vitamin E (50 mg/kg) + Iron (50 mg/kg). Serum cholesterol, TG, HDL, and LDL levels were assessed after six weeks. Finally, the animals were sacrificed with ketamine, and carotid arteries were removed. The samples were fixed in 10% formalin, and TUNEL staining was used after the tissue processing. Cell counts were carried out under a light microscope.

RESULTS

Vitamin E decreased Serum cholesterol and apoptotic endothelial cells in the hypercholesterolemic + vitamin E diet (P< 0.05). However, they increased significantly in the interference groups compared to the control group (P< 0.05).

CONCLUSION

According to our findings, vitamin E showed to have a beneficial effect on preventing cardiovascular diseases and may play a positive role in the prevention of atherosclerosis.

Antioxidant and Lipid-Lowering Effects of Buriti Oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) Administered to Iron-Overloaded Rats

The indiscriminate use of oral ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) doses induces significant oxidative damage to health. However, carotene-rich foods such as buriti oil can help the endogenous antioxidant defense and still maintain other body functions. This study aimed to assess the effects of buriti oil intake in iron-overloaded rats by FeSO4 administration. Buriti oil has β-carotene (787.05 mg/kg), α-tocopherol (689.02 mg/kg), and a predominance of monounsaturated fatty acids (91.30 g/100 g). Wistar rats (n = 32) were subdivided into two control groups that were fed a diet containing either soybean or buriti oil; and two groups which received a high daily oral dose of FeSO4 (60 mg/kg body weight) and fed a diet containing either soybean (SFe) or buriti oil (Bfe). The somatic and hematological parameters, serum lipids, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were determined after 17 days of iron overload. Somatic parameters were similar among groups. BFe showed a decrease in low-density lipoprotein (38.43%) and hemoglobin (7.51%); an increase in monocytes (50.98%), SOD activity in serum (87.16%), and liver (645.50%) hepatic GPx (1017.82%); and maintained serum GPx compared to SFe. Buriti oil showed systemic and hepatic antioxidant protection in iron-overloaded rats, which may be related to its high carotenoid, tocopherol, and fatty acid profile.

Hesperidin protects against aluminum-induced renal injury in rats via modulating MMP-9 and apoptosis: biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural study

Aluminum, one of the most abundant metallic elements, is known to be toxic to multiple organs including the kidneys. This study aimed to investigate the pleiotropic nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin in aluminum chloride (ALCL3)-induced renal injury, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms underlying. Twenty-four male albino rats were divided into four groups: control, Hesperidin (80 mg/kg BW, orally), ALCL3 (10 mg/kg BW, IP), and ALCL3 + Hesperidin groups. By the end of the study, blood samples were collected, and tissue samples were harvested at sacrifice. ALCL3 rats showed dramatically declined renal function, enhanced intrarenal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and extravagant renal histopathological damage with interstitial fibrosis as shown by a higher Endothelial, Glomerular, Tubular, and Interstitial (EGTI) score. Hesperidin significantly reversed all the aforementioned detrimental effects in ALCL3-treated rats. The study verified the nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin on ALCL3-induced renal damage and confirmed the critical role of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and apoptosis inhibition.

Hepatic Response to the Interaction Between Thymoquinone and Iron-Dextran: an In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Iron is one of the most important essential elements for cell function. However, iron overload can exert destructive effects on various tissues, especially the liver. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on hepatotoxicity induced by iron-overload in in vitro and mouse model. After in vitro studies, thirty mice were divided into five groups, six each. Group 1 received normal saline. Group 2 received five doses of iron dextran (i.p; 100 mg/kg, one dose every 2 days). Group 3 received TQ (orally, 2 mg/kg/day). Groups 4 and 5 were administrated iron dextran saline (i.p; 100 mg/kg, one dose every 2 days) following treatment with 0.5 and 2 mg/kg/day of TQ, respectively. Based on the findings of the DPPH experiment, although TQ has significant anti-radical potential, at a safe dose of 15 × 10⁺³ nM, it reduced the IC₅₀ of iron dextran on HepG2 cells by about 25%, in in vitro. Following administration of low-dose TQ (0.5 mg/kg), a significant improvement was observed in serum hepatic enzymes activity and hepatic lipid peroxidation compared to iron dextran. However, administration of TQ-high dose (2 mg/kg) led to decrease antioxidant defense alongside increased serum hepatic enzymes and pathological damages in iron dextran-treated animals. Due to the different efficacy of TQ in treatment groups, it seems that the TQ therapeutic index is low and does not have significant safety in the iron overload status.

Cyclopia intermedia (Honeybush) Induces Uncoupling Protein 1 and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha Expression in Obese Diabetic Female db/db Mice

Previously, we reported that a crude polyphenol-enriched fraction of Cyclopia intermedia (CPEF), a plant consumed as the herbal tea, commonly known as honeybush, reduced lipid content in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and inhibited body weight gain in obese, diabetic female leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice. In the current study, the mechanisms underlying decreased body weight gain in db/db mice were further elucidated using western blot analysis and in silico approaches. CPEF induced uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1, 3.4-fold, p < 0.05) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα, 2.6-fold, p < 0.05) expression in brown adipose tissue. In the liver, CPEF induced PPARα expression (2.2-fold, p < 0.05), which was accompanied by a 31.9% decrease in fat droplets in Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)-stained liver sections (p < 0.001). Molecular docking analysis revealed that the CPEF compounds, hesperidin and neoponcirin, had the highest binding affinities for UCP1 and PPARα, respectively. This was validated with stabilising intermolecular interactions within the active sites of UCP1 and PPARα when complexed with these compounds. This study suggests that CPEF may exert its anti-obesity effects by promoting thermogenesis and fatty acid oxidation via inducing UCP1 and PPARα expression, and that hesperidin and neoponcirin may be responsible for these effects. Findings from this study could pave the way for designing target-specific anti-obesity therapeutics from C. intermedia.

Protective effects of hesperidin in cyclophosphamide-induced parotid toxicity in rats

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is an alkylating agent that is used on a wide range as a treatment of malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Previous studies have shown the promising role of hesperidin (HSP) as an antioxidant agent against various models of toxic agents. The protective effect of the HSP against CYP-induced parotid damage was evaluated in this study. Forty rats (180-200 g) were divided into four equal groups: Group I (received normal saline), Group II (HSP-treated at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for 7 consecutive days), Group III (CYP-treated at a dose of 200 mg/kg single intraperitoneal injection on the 7th day of the experiment), Group IV (CYP + HSP); HSP-treated at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for 7 consecutive days and CYP (200 mg/kg) single intraperitoneal injection on the 7th day of the experiment. Afterwards, the oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, the histopathological and immunohistochemical alterations of the parotid tissues in the studied groups were evaluated. CYP intoxication induced a significant parotid tissue injury represented by the elevation in the values of malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and decrease in the catalase activity and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Histologically, extensive histopathological alterations e.g., widely spaced serous acini with irregular shapes and congested blood vessels as well as downregulated ki-67 and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunoexpression were induced by CYP. HSP administration markedly improved the biochemical and the histopathological studies. We can conclude that HSP elicited protective effects against the CYP-induced parotid toxicity.

Hormonal and inflammatory modulatory effects of hesperidin in hyperthyroidism-modeled rats

The goal of the current study was to investigate the hormonal modulatory efficiency of hesperidin, through its regulatory potential of immunological, inflammatory, and/or antioxidant changes in on hyperthyroidism modeled adult female albino rats. Both normal and hyperthyroidism modeled rats (140-160g) were randomly divided into four groups (10 animals each) as follows: 1) healthy animals were daily ingested with saline for six weeks, and served as control group, 2) healthy animals were intraperitoneally injected with hesperidin (50 mg/kg/day) for a similar period, 3) hyperthyroidism-modeled animals without any treatment acted as positive control, and 4) hyperthyroidism-modeled animals were treated intraperitoneally with hesperidin for a similar period. The findings showed that hesperidin significantly modulated hyperthyroidism deteriorations, this was evidenced by a remarkable decline in serum T4, FT4, T3, FT3, TNF-α, IL1β-, IL4-, IL-6, and IL-10 levels, with a minor increase in TSH and significant raise in CD4+ level. Similarly, valuable improvement was observed in the oxidative status; serum SOD, GPx, CAT, and GSH levels were dramatically enhanced, associated with remarkable drop in MDA and NO levels. Also, hesperidin demonstrated nephro-hepatoprotective and anti-atherogenic potential, this was achieved from the notable reduction in ALAT and ASAT activities as well as urea, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride close to the corresponding values of healthy group. These findings were supported by histological and immunohistochemical ones that showed a notable decrease in the expression of the calcitonin antibody. In conclusion, hesperidin possesses anti-hyperthyroidism, immunoinflammatory regulatory, and antioxidant activities that evidenced from the improvement of physio-architecture of the thyroid gland, reduction of inflammation and restoration of the impaired oxidative stress. This effect might be mechanized through immunological, inflammatory, apoptotic, and/or antioxidant modulatory pathways.

Khalaf AA, R. Zaki A, Mansour Khalifa M, A. Ibrahim M, M. Mekkawy A, E. Abdelrahman R, Farghali A, A. Noshy P. Hesperidin protects rats’ liver and kidney from oxidative damage and physiological disruption induced by nickel oxide nanoparticles

Background: Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) have recently been utilized in various advanced industrial fields like lithium-ion micro batteries, nanofibers, electrochromic devices, and several biomedical applications. NiO-NPs are classified as extremely toxic substances as they can cause long-term harm to the environment and aquatic life. Moreover, frequent and prolonged exposure can affect human and animal health, causing skin allergies and major toxic consequences, such as hepatorenal toxicity. Hesperidin (HSP) has been proven to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and free radical scavenging activities.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the underlying protective mechanisms and effects of HSP against NiO-NPs-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats.

Materials and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 in each). The first group served as a Control group. For 8 weeks, the second group was administered NiO-NPs (100 mg/kg/day), and the third group was given HSP (100 mg/kg/day) via oral gavage for both groups. The fourth group received NiO-NPs and HSP concurrently in the same oral daily doses and duration as the second and third groups.

Results: NiO-NPs administration revealed a significant increase in plasma biomarkers of nephrotoxicity (urea, creatinine) and hepatotoxicity (ALT, AST) in NiO-NPs group compared to Control group (p < 0.05). In addition, NiO-NPs administration resulted in a substantial increase in malondialdehyde levels with a significant drop in catalase activity and GSH content in Group II. Also, a significant decreased expression of Nrf-2 and Bcl-2 mRNA levels and upregulation of TNF-α, NF-kβ and BAX in the liver and kidney of NiO-NPs group were also detected. Histologically, the liver and kidney of rats of NiO-NPs group showed significant histopathological disturbances, with a substantial increase in the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive hepatocytes and renal tubular cells in the NiO-NPs group compared to Control and HSP groups (p < 0.05). In contrast, concomitant administration of HSP with NiO-NPs in group IV showed a significant biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical improvement compared to NiO-NPs group.

Conclusion: Co-administration of HSP with NiO-NPs significantly ameliorated most of the NiO-NPs-induced hepatorenal toxicities in male rats.

Evaluation of the effects of hesperidin on fresh and frozen-thawed semen quality using two different cryopreservation methods in Simmental bull

In the industry of bull semen freezing centers, one-step and two-step semen dilution protocols are two standard and well-known methods in semen freezing process. As the freezing/thawing processes cause detrimental effects on sperm function, the addition of antioxidants can improve sperm characteristics. Hesperidin (Hesp) is an antioxidant used as the male reproductive protective agent. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate two different dilution methods, as well as to evaluate Hesp supplementation influence on sperm characteristics in fresh and frozen thawed semen. Semen samples were collected from 12 Simmental bulls. Two separate examinations were conducted in, with and without Hesp supplementation groups. Statistical analysis was performed by an independent t-test, Mann Whitny test, MANOVA and ANOVA tests. In comparison to the one and two-step dilution protocols without Hesp supplementation, the two-step dilution showed greater cryoprotective potential. In the Hesp supplemented group, each semen sample was divided into six equal parts for experimental groups (dilution step method/µM of Hesp). In the both one and two step dilution protocols, significant improvements were detected in semen motility parameters by Hesp administration. Also, oxidative stress status was reduced in seminal plasma of Hesp treatment groups. Interestingly, in comparison with Hesp dosage, 1µM was shown to have greater semen cryoprotective potential. In conclusion,

Biochemical and pharmacological prospects of Citrus sinensis peel

Gastric ulcer and hepatotoxicity due to irrational drug overuse are two of the most serious conditions associated with inflammation and oxidative stress that affect the digestive system. This study aimed to experimentally evaluate the hepatoprotective/gastroprotective effects of aqueous and butanol citrus peel extracts and hesperidin in rat models of ulcer and hepatotoxicity. Acute toxicity study was performed for determining the safe dose of citrus extracts to analyze efficacy. In the experiments on hepatoprotective and gastroprotective effects, rats were classified into nine groups in each experiment: (1) negative control, (2) positive control hepatotoxic model with paracetamol (640 mg/kg)/gastric ulcer model:ethanol 70% (1 ml), (3)reference hepatoprotective:silymarin (25 mg/kg)/gastroprotective:ranitidine (50 mg/kg), and (4-9) groups treated for 2 weeks before induction of each disease with either citrus aqueous or butanol extracts or hesperidin (125-250 mg/kg). Drugs, ethanol, or tested compounds were administered orally. The levels of biochemical parameters, such as AST, ALT, NO, MDA, CRP, and ILβ6, were significantly reduced, but CAT level was increased. Postmortem examination of liver and stomach tissues of treated animals revealed marked improvement compared with positive control animals. Hesperidin exerted the best hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective effects, followed by butanol and then aqueous citrus peel extracts.

Reduction of iron toxicity in the heart of iron-overloaded mice with natural compounds

BACKGROUND

Iron-overload is one of the risk factors in susceptible individuals. Iron-overload causes complications such as diastolic dysfunction, arrhythmias, ventricular dilation, and systolic dysfunction in the heart. Therefore, particular care is needed for those who need blood transfusions or patients with underlying heart diseases.

PURPOSE

In this study, we examined the ability of six compounds, hesperidin, coumarin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and vanillin, to reduce the effects of iron-overdose in the heart of iron-overloaded mice.

METHODS

For this purpose, 84 mice were prepared and except for the control group, iron-overload conditions were created in them by injecting iron. The hearts of mice were then harvested and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase were evaluated. Additionally, the amount of lipid peroxidation was measured by assessing the quantity of malondialdehyde. The physiopathology of cardiac tissue was considered by Perl's and H&E staining.

RESULTS

According to the results, almost all natural compounds showed better performance than desferal, as an iron chelator chemical. Meanwhile, hesperidin, vanillin, and ferulic acid were the best antioxidant compounds and were able to improve the activity of antioxidant enzymes by reducing the amount of deposited iron.

CONCLUSION

We recommend the use of the above compounds as natural iron chelators after completing additional studies.

Protective and Therapeutic Efficacy of Hesperidin versus Cisplatin against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma-Induced Renal Damage in Mice

This study evaluates the antitumor efficacy of hesperidin (Hesp) versus cisplatin (Cis) in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC)-bearing mice, as well as its protective effect against Cis-triggered nephrotoxicity. Seventy female mice were allocated into control, Hesp, EAC, Hesp-protected, Hesp-treated, Cis-treated, and Cis+Hesp-treated groups. The inoculation of mice with EAC cells significantly reduced the mean survival time, while significantly increased the body weight, abdominal circumference, ascitic fluid volume, viable tumor cell count, and serum carcinoembryonic antigen, urea and creatinine levels, besides various hematological changes. Additionally, kidney tissue of EAC-bearing mice showed a significant increase in the malondialdehyde level, significant decreases in the reduced glutathione content and catalase activity, marked pathological alterations, and a strong Ki-67 expression with a weak caspase-3 expression in neoplastic cells infiltrating the renal capsule. Conversely, the administration of Hesp and/or Cis to the EAC-bearing mice induced, to various degrees, antitumor responses and alleviated the cytotoxic effects of EAC. In addition to the potent antitumor effect of the concomitant administration of Hesp and Cis, Hesp minimized the renal adverse side effects of Cis. In conclusion, Hesp may open new avenues for safe and effective cancer therapy and could be valuable for enhancing the antitumor potency and minimizing the renal adverse side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs.

Exogenous hesperidin and chlorogenic acid alleviate oxidative damage induced by arsenic toxicity in Zea mays through regulating the water status, antioxidant capacity, redox balance and fatty acid composition

Arsenic (As) toxicity is a problem that needs to be solved in terms of both human health and agricultural production in the vast majority of the world. The presence of As causes biomass loss by disrupting the balance of biochemical processes in plants and preventing growth/water absorption in the roots and accumulating in the edible parts of the plant and entering the food chain. A critical method of combating As toxicity is the use of biosafe, natural, bioactive compounds such as hesperidin (HP) or chlorogenic acid (CA). To this end, in this study, the physiological and biochemical effects of HP (100 μM) and CA (50 μM) were investigated in Zea mays under arsenate stress (100 μM). Relative water content, osmotic potential, photosynthesis-related parameters were suppressed under stress. It was determined that stress decreased the activities of the antioxidant system and increased the level of saturated fatty acids and, gene expression of PHT transporters involved in the uptake and translocation of arsenate. After being exposed to stress, HP and CA improved the capacity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and then ROS accumulation (H₂O₂) and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) were effectively removed. These phenolic compounds contributed to maintaining the cellular redox status by regulating enzyme/non-enzyme activity/contents involved in the AsA-GSH cycle. HP and CA reversed the adverse effects of excessive metal ion accumulation by re-regulated expression of the PHT1.1 and PHT1.3 genes in response to stress. Exogenously applied HP and CA effectively maintained membrane integrity by regulating saturated/unsaturated fatty acid content. However, the combined application of HP and CA did not show a synergistic protective activity against As stress and had a negative effect on the antioxidant capacity of maize leaves. As a result, HP and CA have great potentials to provide tolerance to maize under As stress by reducing oxidative injury and preserving the biochemical reactions of photosynthesis.

Hesperidin ameliorates cisplatin induced hepatotoxicity and attenuates oxidative damage, cell apoptosis, and inflammation in rats

Cisplatin is one of the most widely used chemotherapeutic anti-cancer drugs that is associated with multiple systemic toxicities limiting its use. The present study aimed to evaluate the hepato-protective effect of hesperidin against cisplatin-induced toxicity. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were equally split into four groups, the first group served as control received normal saline, the second group (CIS) received a single intraperitoneal dose of cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg bw) on the 22nd day of the experiment, the third group (HES) treated once daily with hesperidin (200 mg/kg bw, orally) for 21 days, and the last group (HES + CIS) pretreated once daily with hesperidin followed by a single intraperitoneal dose of cisplatin. Twenty-four hours later, samples were collected for further investigations. CIS-intoxication resulted in a significant decrease in the erythrogram along with thrombocytopenia leukopenia, and lymphopenia. Furthermore, CIS administration significantly elevated serum activity of liver enzymes, total, and indirect bilirubin as well serum glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels, meanwhile serum total protein, and globulin levels were significantly reduced. The hepatic MDA was markedly elevated with a concomitant decline in the hepatic antioxidant enzymes and severe alterations in the hepatic tissue architecture in CIS-intoxicated rats. Additionally, CIS-induced overexpression of hepatic Bax, caspase-3, and TNF-α, with no effect on hepatic expression of IL-10. Interestingly, HES pretreatment improved the CIS-induced hemato-biochemical, molecular and histopathological alterations. In conclusion, hesperidin hepato-protective effects against CIS might be mediated by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

Hesperidin Preserves Cognitive Functions and Hippocampus Histological Architecture in Albino Wistar Rats Subjected to Stress Through Enhancement of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor

Hesperidin (HSD) is a natural compound with antioxidant potential. On the other hand, chronic stress had been linked to impaired cognitive functions as it affects many neurotransmitters and brain regions such as the hippocampus. The current study was conducted to examine the effect of HSD on learning and memory after chronic mild stress. Albino Wistar rats were subjected to chronic mild stress with HSD administered as supplements. HSD was found to decrease hippocampal amyloid beta and malondialdehyde levels, in addition, to preserve cognitive functions together with preserving hippocampus histological architecture. In conclusion, the present study sheds the light on the potential of HSD to ameliorate the deleterious effects of chronic mild stress on cognitive functions through brain-derived neurotrophic factor enhancement and reduction in Aβ formation in addition to activation of the antioxidant pathway.

Effect of tannic acid-templated mesoporous silica nanoparticles on iron-induced oxidative stress and liver toxicity in rats

The present study sought to investigate the effects of amino-functionalized tannic acid-templated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (TA-MS-NH₂ NPs) on giving rats protection against iron-induced liver toxicity. To this end, the TA-MS-NH₂ NPs were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Moreover, 50 Wistar rats were randomly divided into one control group (group 1) and four experimental groups (groups 2- 5) (n = 10), each of which received 100 mg/kg oral normal saline and FeSO₄, respectively. Then, post-exposure hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress markers were measured in two intervals, i.e., after 4 and 24 h, followed by the measurement of the acute iron toxicity. Furthermore, hepatotoxicity markers, including the alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), were measured via Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and 2,2,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Also, malondialdehyde (MDA), total thiol groups, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and nitrite/nitrate (NOx) levels were measured as oxidative stress markers in the serum samples. The results indicated that oral administration of iron significantly elevated the liver enzymes and altered the level of oxidative stress markers. It was also found that treatment with TA-MS-NH₂ NPs meaningfully protected against hepatotoxicity, decreased ALT, AST, ALP, and significantly improved oxidative stress markers by decreasing MDA, AOPP, and NOx levels and increasing TAC and thiol group contents, proving that TA-MS-NH₂ NPs could protect rats against iron-induced acute liver toxicity through their antioxidant features.

Sesame Extract Promotes Chemopreventive Effect of Hesperidin on Early Phase of Diethylnitrosamine-Initiated Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats

The combination of natural products is an alternative approach to achieving chemopreventive potential. Accordingly, citrus hesperidin exhibits numerous biological activities, including anticarcinogenic activities, while the sesamin in sesame exhibits potent anticancer activities and lipid-lowering effects. We investigated the cancer chemopreventive effects of mixed sesame and orange seed extract (MSO) containing hesperidin and sesamin in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Rats were injected with DEN once a week for 3 weeks to induce hepatocarcinogenesis. Rats were fed with MSO and various compositions that included sesame extract (SE) and hesperidin. The 10-week administration of MSO more effectively inhibited the number and size of hepatic GST-P-positive foci than hesperidin in DEN-initiated rats. MSO and hesperidin decreased the number of PCNA-positive hepatocytes but increased the apoptotic cells in DEN-induced rats. Furthermore, MSO and its constituents suppressed hepatic triglyceride content concurrently along with the expression of fatty acid synthase. Although the 5-week administration of MSO or hesperidin did not alter hepatic, preneoplastic lesion formation in DEN-initiated rats, it alleviated DEN-induced hepatotoxicity. MSO and its applied compositions did not impact upon the cytochrome P450 system. In conclusion, sesame extract promoted the chemopreventive effect of hesperidin on DEN-induced early stage of hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. The inhibitory mechanisms are likely involved with the induction of cell apoptosis, suppression of cell proliferation and modulation of hepatic lipogenesis. This study may provide revelations in the development of alternative treatments against hepatocellular carcinoma.

Naringin and Hesperidin Counteract Diclofenac-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats via Their Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antiapoptotic Activities

This study is aimed at evaluating the preventive effect and at suggesting the mode of actions of naringin and hesperidin and their combination in diclofenac-induced hepatotoxicity. Male Wistar rats, intraperitoneally injected with diclofenac sodium (3 mg/kg b.wt/day), were orally treated with naringin (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and hesperidin (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and their combination for 4 weeks. The administrations of naringin and hesperidin to diclofenac-injected rats led to a significant decrease in the elevated serum ALT, AST, LDH, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin, TNF-α, and IL-17 levels as well as liver lipid peroxidation and liver p53 and caspase-3 mRNA expressions. In contrast, serum IL-4 level, liver GSH content, and liver GPx and SOD activities increased. In association, diclofenac-induced deleterious histological alterations including hydropic degeneration, cytoplasmic vacuolization, apoptosis, and focal hepatic necrosis of hepatocytes associated with inflammatory cells' infiltration were remarkably improved by treatments with naringin and hesperidin. In conclusion, naringin, hesperidin, and their combination, which was the most potent, counteract diclofenac-induced liver injury via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic actions. Thus, this study recommends the use of naringin and hesperidin or their combination to resolve the side effects of drugs like diclofenac on the liver.

Naringin and Hesperidin Counteract Diclofenac-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats via Their Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antiapoptotic Activities

This study is aimed at evaluating the preventive effect and at suggesting the mode of actions of naringin and hesperidin and their combination in diclofenac-induced hepatotoxicity. Male Wistar rats, intraperitoneally injected with diclofenac sodium (3 mg/kg b.wt/day), were orally treated with naringin (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and hesperidin (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and their combination for 4 weeks. The administrations of naringin and hesperidin to diclofenac-injected rats led to a significant decrease in the elevated serum ALT, AST, LDH, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin, TNF-α, and IL-17 levels as well as liver lipid peroxidation and liver p53 and caspase-3 mRNA expressions. In contrast, serum IL-4 level, liver GSH content, and liver GPx and SOD activities increased. In association, diclofenac-induced deleterious histological alterations including hydropic degeneration, cytoplasmic vacuolization, apoptosis, and focal hepatic necrosis of hepatocytes associated with inflammatory cells’ infiltration were remarkably improved by treatments with naringin and hesperidin. In conclusion, naringin, hesperidin, and their combination, which was the most potent, counteract diclofenac-induced liver injury via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic actions. Thus, this study recommends the use of naringin and hesperidin or their combination to resolve the side effects of drugs like diclofenac on the liver.

Biochemical and morphological biomarker responses in the gills of a Neotropical fish exposed to a new flavonoid metal-insecticide

The flavonoid metal-insecticide [Mg(hesp)₂(phen)], denominated MgHP, has high potential for controlling agricultural pests. If applied in large scale, it may reach aquatic ecosystems and be harmful to the biota. This study evaluated the effects of MgHP in the gills of the Neotropical fish, Prochilodus lineatus by determining the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione s-transferase (GST), and the levels of glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) after 24 and 96 h exposure to 0, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 μg L^-1. The histopathological changes with emphases to mitochondria-rich cells (MRC) were evaluated as well. After 24 h exposure the enzyme activities and the GSH and LPO levels were unchanged however, after 96 h exposure to high MgHP concentration (1000 μg L^-1), the GST activity and GSH levels increased. Oxidative stress measured as LPO levels did not occur after MgHP exposure in both periods. Gill tissue alterations increased after MgHP exposure to 10, 100 and 1000 μg L^-1. Cellular atrophy, pillar cells changes, filament epithelium hyperplasia and hypertrophy, lamellar epithelium hyperplasia were the most frequent histopathology. MRC in the filament epithelium decreased after exposure to 24 h and increased after 96 h indicating possible transitory osmo-ionic disruption. P. lineatus exhibited high tolerance to MgHP. The increased GST activity and GSH levels after 96 h exposure suggested possible MgHP accumulation and concentration- and time-dependent response. Histopathology in the gills of exposed fish occurred at high MgHP concentrations. These results suggested that the MgHP into water, at high concentrations, affect the gills by changing GST activity, GSH levels and histology being useful biomarkers for MgHP water contamination.

Phyllanthus amarus extract restored deranged biochemical parameters in rat model of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity

Phyllanthus amarus has been exploited for the management of several aliments in folkloric medicine. The present study therefore investigates the restorative potential of its leaves extract on hepatic and renal assault induced by CCl4 and rifampicin respectively. Eight groups (I-VIII) containing five animals each were created for the experiments. Group I were fed with normal commercial pellet only, while group II were exposed to single intraperitoneal injection of 3 ml/kg b.w. of CCl4 only. Groups III, IV and V animals were administered 3 ml/kg b/w of CCl4 and treated with 50, 100 mg/kg b. w. of P. amarus and 100 mg/kg b.w of silymarin respectively. Group VI animals were orally exposed to 250 mg/kg b/w of rifampicin only while groups VII and VIII were treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg b. w. P. amarus respectively for 14 days after the initial exposure to 250 mg/kg b/w rifampicin . Liver and kidney function tests such as alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, urea and uric acid were determined in the serum and organs homogenates. Moreover, malonidialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) as well as lipid profile were also measured. Results showed that exposure to rifampicin and CCl4 respectively caused a marked derangement in lipid profile as well as decrease in SOD and CAT activity relative to the negative control. Administration of both toxicants also caused a marked increase in serum ALT, AST, ALP, urea, uric acid and creatine kinase compared to the negative control. Treatment with P. amarus attenuated the toxicity imposed by rifampicin and CCl4 on the liver and kidney in a dose-dependent fashion. All biochemical indices measured were restored to values comparable with animals treated with silymarin. Histopathological results of the hepatic and renal tissues from the various groups of experimental animals gave credence to the curative effects of P. amarus leaf extract on damaged liver and kidney cells. Put together, P. amarus is a potential medicinal plant with similar potency to conventional drugs currently in use for the treatment liver and kidney diseases. Hence, it is a viable therapeutic alternative that can be exploited for the treatment of renal and hepatic diseases.

Nutraceutical Properties of Polyphenols against Liver Diseases

Current food tendencies, suboptimal dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle are spreading metabolic disorders worldwide. Consequently, the prevalence of liver pathologies is increasing, as it is the main metabolic organ in the body. Chronic liver diseases, with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as the main cause, have an alarming prevalence of around 25% worldwide. Otherwise, the consumption of certain drugs leads to an acute liver failure (ALF), with drug-induced liver injury (DILI) as its main cause, or alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Although programs carried out by authorities are focused on improving dietary habits and lifestyle, the long-term compliance of the patient makes them difficult to follow. Thus, the supplementation with certain substances may represent a more easy-to-follow approach for patients. In this context, the consumption of polyphenol-rich food represents an attractive alternative as these compounds have been characterized to be effective in ameliorating liver pathologies. Despite of their structural diversity, certain similar characteristics allow to classify polyphenols in 5 groups: stilbenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans and curcuminoids. Herein, we have identified the most relevant compounds in each group and characterized their main sources. By this, authorities should encourage the consumption of polyphenol-rich products, as most of them are available in quotidian life, which might reduce the socioeconomical burden of liver diseases.

Hesperidin inhibits L-NAME-induced vascular and renal alterations in rats by suppressing the renin-angiotensin system, transforming growth factor-β1, and oxidative stress

The protective effect of hesperidin on vascular and renal alterations and possible underlying mechanisms involved in N^ω -nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats were investigated in this study. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day), L-NAME plus hesperidin (30 mg/kg/day), and L-NAME plus captopril (2.5 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks. Hesperidin and captopril significantly prevented L-NAME-induced hypertension, vascular and renal dysfunction, intrarenal artery remodelling, glomerular extracellular matrix accumulation, and renal fibrosis. The preventive treatment with hesperidin and captopril also significantly decreased serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and plasma transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels and downregulated angiotensin II receptor type I and TGF-β1 protein expression in the kidneys. In addition, decreased malondialdehyde levels and increased superoxide dismutase activity in the plasma and kidney were observed after co-treatment with hesperidin or captopril. These findings suggest that hesperidin inhibits L-NAME-induced vascular and renal alterations in rats. The possible mechanism may be related to the suppression of the activation of the renin-angiotensin system and expression of TGF-β1, and reduction of oxidative stress.

Prenatal exposure to hesperidin improves reflexive motor behaviors in mice offspring

Prenatal exposure during the embryonic period has positive or adverse effect on newborn brain development. Neuroprotective activity of the hesperidin is well documented but there is no evidence for maternal exposure to hesperidin on offspring reflexive motor behaviors. So, the aim of the current study was to determine the prenatal exposure to hesperidin on reflexive motor behaviors in mice offspring. Forty pregnant female NMRI mice (8-10 weeks old) were allocated into four groups. Group 1 kept as control and groups 2-4 intraperitoneal (i.p) injected with hesperidin (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg) on days of 5, 8, 11, 14, and 17 of pregnancy. The control group injected with saline at the same days. Following delivery, 20 pups from each litter were selected and reflexive motor behaviors determined using ambulation, hind-limb foot angle, surface righting, hind-limb strength, grip strength, front-limb suspension, and negative geotaxis tests. At the end of the study serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were determined. According to the results, maternal exposure to hesperidin (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg) increased ambulation score, front-limb suspension time, and hind-limb suspension score in mice offspring compared to the control group (p < .05). Hesperidin (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg) decreased hind-limb foot angle in mice offspring compared to the control group (p < .05). Prenatal exposure to hesperidin (0.5 and 1 mg/kg) significantly increased the surface righting and grip strength in comparison to the control group (p < .05). Hesperidin (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg) decreased MDA and increased SOD and GPx levels in mice offspring (p < .05). These results suggested hesperidin exposure during pregnancy has positive effect on reflexive motor behaviors in mice offspring may be due to its antioxidant activity.

Flavonoids from Aurantii Fructus Immaturus and Aurantii Fructus: promising phytomedicines for the treatment of liver diseases

Background

Liver diseases and related complications are major sources of morbidity and mortality, which places a huge financial burden on patients and lead to nonnegligible social problems. Therefore, the discovery of novel therapeutic drugs for the treatment of liver diseases is urgently required. Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (AFI) and Aurantii Fructus (AF) are frequently used herbal medicines in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas for the treatment of diverse ailments. A variety of bioactive ingredients have been isolated and identified from AFI and AF, including alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins and volatile oils.

Main body

Emerging evidence suggests that flavonoids, especially hesperidin (HD), naringenin (NIN), nobiletin (NOB), naringin (NRG), tangeretin (TN), hesperetin (HT) and eriodictyol (ED) are major representative bioactive ingredients that alleviate diseases through multi-targeting mechanisms, including anti-oxidative stress, anti-cytotoxicity, anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis and anti-tumor mechanisms. In the current review, we summarize the recent progress in the research of hepatoprotective effects of HD, NIN, NOB, NRG, TN, HT and ED and highlight the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. We also point out the limitations of the current studies and shed light on further in-depth pharmacological and pharmacokinetic studies of these bioactive flavonoids.

Conclusion

This review outlines the recent advances in the literature and highlights the potential of these flavonoids isolated from AFI and AF as therapeutic agents for the treatment of liver diseases. Further pharmacological studies will accelerate the development of natural products in AFI and AF and their derivatives as medicines with tantalizing prospects in the clinical application.

Hesperidin protects against cadmium-induced pancreatitis by modulating insulin secretion, redox imbalance and iNOS/NF-ĸB signaling in rats

AIM

Cadmium is a persistent ubiquitous environmental toxicant that elicits several biological defects on delicate body organs. Growing evidence suggests that cadmium (Cd) may perturb signaling pathways to induce oxidative pancreatitis. Thus, we explored whether hesperidin, a flavonone, could mitigate Cd-induced oxidative stress-mediated inflammation and pancreatitis in Wistar rats.

MAIN METHODS

Forty (40) rats randomly assigned to 5 groups (n = 8) were administered normal saline or hesperidin (Hsp) followed by Cd intoxication for 28 days.

KEY FINDINGS

Cadmium accumulated in the pancreas of rats, and markedly decreased insulin, pancreatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and glutathione (GSH) level. Cadmium considerably increased malondialdehyde (MDA), serum lipase and amylase activities. Cadmium induced pancreatic pro-inflammation via over-expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), along with histopathological alterations. Hesperidin prominently decreased serum amylase and lipase activities, and markedly increased insulin level, pancreatic antioxidant defense mechanism, whereas iNOS, NF-κB, IL-6 and TNF-α levels significantly decreased. Changes in histology confirmed our biochemical findings.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that Cd induced pancreatitis via pro-inflammation and oxidative stress; Hsp, thus, protects against Cd-induced pancreatitis via attenuation of oxidative stress and proinflammatory responses in pancreas.

Methyl cellosolve-induced renal oxidative stress and time-dependent up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic, and oncogenic markers in rats

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MC significantly increased and decrease the kidney levels of MDA and NO respectively after 14 and 21 days.

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MC administration resulted in the disorganization of the renal redox system.

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MC significantly increased the kidney levels of TNF-α and IL-6 after 7, 14 and 21 days, and IL-1β after 14 and 21 days.

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MC significantly increased kidney p53, Bax, and caspase-3 after 14 and 21 days, and decreased Bcl-2 after 14 and 21 days.

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MC significantly increased the kidney levels of c-Myc and K-Ras after 7, 14 and 21 days.

Methyl cellosolve (MC) is used in production of textile, paints, stains, inks, surface coatings, and anti-icing additive in hydraulic fluids and jet fuel. Consequently, the present study investigated its effect on renal cells, in a time-course study in male Wistar rats. Animals were orally administered 50 mg/kg body weight of MC for a period of 7, 14, and 21 days. Following 7 days of administration of MC, there was a significant increase in the levels of K-Ras, c-Myc, TNF-α, IL-6 and NO, while GSH level and SOD activity were significantly reduced compared with control. At the end of 14 days exposure, RKW, GSH, NO, and Bcl-2 levels were significantly decreased, while levels of K-Ras, c-Myc, p53, Bax, caspase-3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MDA and GPx activity were significantly increased compared with control. After 21 days of MC administration, RKW, GSH, NO, IL-10 and Bcl-2 levels were significantly decreased, while levels of K-Ras, c-Myc, p53, Bax, caspase-3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MDA and GST activity were significantly increased compared with control. Exposures to MC in any way should be strictly avoided as it could trigger renal damage through the disorganization of the antioxidant system, up-regulation of inflammatory, apoptotic, and oncogenic markers in rats.

Exploiting Citrus aurantium seeds and their secondary metabolites in the management of Alzheimer disease

Fruit by-products are considered nature’s golden gift for human health and a good starting point to discover new drugs depending on the fact that they contain millions of bio-active compounds that are responsible for therapeutic activities. In this context, the main goal of this study is to recycle Citrus aurantium (C. aurantium) seeds to produce pharmaceutical molecules to be used in the prevention of the progressive neurological damage associated with Alzheimer disease (AD). Donepezil (0.75 mg/kg), hesperidin (125 and 250 mg/kg) and limonoids (50 and 100 mg/kg) were used for treatment of rats for 2 weeks prior to concomitant administration of AlCl₃ for three successive weeks. Protection against cognitive deterioration was observed among study group with insignificant difference from normal control group and significant difference from positive control group in the Y-Maze test. On the other hand, treatment with both doses of hesperidin (125 and 250 mg/kg) and high dose of limonoids only (100 mg/kg) produced improvement in psychological state, observed by significant increase in ambulation frequency in comparison to positive control group, however it was not as frequent as normal group, as it was significantly less than normal group in the open field test. Regarding acetylcholine esterase (AChE) and beta-amyloid (β amyloid) levels, the effect of limonoids low dose was the best as it didn’t have a significant effect when compared to normal control, also hesperidin in both doses showed insignificant effects on β amyloid levels when compared to normal control group. Our results encourage the use of C. aurantium seeds which are wasted in huge amounts, as Alzheimer prophylactic food additives.

A review of the hepatoprotective effects of hesperidin, a flavanon glycoside in citrus fruits, against natural and chemical toxicities

OBJECTIVES

Liver is the most important and functional organ in the body to metabolize and detoxify endogenous compounds and xenobiotics. The major goal of the present narrative review is to assess the hepatoprotective properties of hesperidin against a variety of natural and chemical hepatotoxins via different mechanisms.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Scientific databases such as Scopus, Medline, Web of Science and Google scholar were thoroughly searched, based on different keywords.

RESULTS

A variety of natural hepatotoxins such as lipopolysaccharide, concanavalin A and microcystins, and chemical hepatotoxins such as ethanol, acrylamide and carbon tetrachloride have been shown to damage hepatocytes as well as other liver cells. In addition to hepatocytes, ethanol can also damage liver hepatic stellate cells, Kupffer cells and sinusoidal endothelial cells. In this regard, the flavanone hesperidin, occur in the rind of citrus fruits, had been demonstrated to possess widespread pharmacological properties. Hesperidin exerts its hepatoprotective properties via different mechanisms including elevation in the activities of nuclear factor-like 2/antioxidant response element and heme oxygenase 1 as well as the levels of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Furthermore, reduction in the levels of high-mobility group box 1 protein, inhibitor of kappa B protein-alpha, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and C-reactive protein are some other important hesperidin-derived hepatoprotective mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

Based on several research papers, it could be concluded that hesperidin is able to protect against liver damage from inflammation and/or oxidative stress-mediated natural and chemical toxins.

Inhibition effects of some pesticides and heavy metals on carbonic anhydrase enzyme activity purified from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) gill tissues

The gill tissue is the main site of metabolic enzymes or compensation, with the kidney tissue playing a supporting role. At the gill tissue, carbonic anhydrase enzymes (CAs) catalyze the hydration of CO₂ to HCO₃^- and H⁺ for production to the H₂O. In this work, the CA enzyme was purified from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) gill with a specific activity of 21,381.42 EU/mg, purification fold of 150.61, total activity of 2347.68 EU/mL, and a yield of 16.13% using sepharose 4B-L-tyrosine-sulfanilamide affinity gel chromatography. For recording the enzyme purity, gel electrophoresis was performed, and single band was seen. The molecular weight of this enzyme was found approximately 35 kDa. Also, the inhibitory effects of different pesticides such as thiram, clofentezine, propineb, deltamethrin, azoxystrobin, and thiophanate and heavy metal ions such as Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺, Co²⁺, Pb²⁺ Hg²⁺, and As³⁺ on horse mackerel gill tissue CA enzyme activities were investigated. Our results indicated that these pesticides and metal ions showed inhibitory effects at low nanomolar and millimolar concentrations for fish gill CA enzymes, respectively.

Krill oil alleviates oxidative stress, iron accumulation and fibrosis in the liver and spleen of iron-overload rats

Krill oil (KO) is a recent supplement which is rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are found in both krill oil and fish oil. In krill oil, they esterified to phospholipids, but in fish oil, they are esterified to triacylglycerols. The target of this study was to investigate whether KO could help against iron overload-induced toxicity in liver and spleen. Rats were randomly assigned into 3 categories: control rats, rats received iron in a drinking water for 8 weeks followed by either vehicle or KO (40 mg/kg) treatment for an extra 8 weeks. Extent of hepatic and splenic injury was assessed via biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations. KO effectively improved the microscopic features of liver and spleen. Moreover, it decreased the increased levels of serum transaminases, ALP, LDH, iron, and ferritin and increased albumin serum level as well. In addition, it restored the balance between oxidants and antioxidants in the hepatic and splenic tissues. Furthermore, it decreased HO-1 levels, upregulated the production of Nrf2, and limited the expression of MMP9. These findings altogether suggest that KO might be a new candidate for treatment of iron overload-induced toxicity. Graphical abstract Graphical abstract.

Hesperidin improves insulin resistance via down-regulation of inflammatory responses: Biochemical analysis and in silico validation

Leptin resistance and co-existing insulin resistance is considered as hallmark of diet-induced obesity. Here, we investigated therapeutic potential of hesperidin to improve leptin and insulin resistance using high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese experimental animal model. We also performed in silico studies to validate therapeutic effectiveness of hesperidin by performing protein-ligand docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies. Group 1 was identified as control group receiving vehicle only. Group 2 was marked as non-treated group receiving 60% HFD. While, other groups were treated daily with orlistat (120 mg/kg/d), hesperidin (55 mg/kg/d), combination of hesperidin (55 mg/kg/d) + orlistat (120 mg/kg/d). Hesperidin alone (P<0.001) and particularly in combination with orlistat (P<0.001), resulted in controlling the levels of HFD-altered biomarkers including random and fasting state of glycemia, leptin and insulin resistance. Similarly, hesperidin also improved the serum and tissue levels of leptin, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha more significantly (P<0.05) when compared with that of orlistat. These results were found to be in accordance with the results of histopathological examination of pancreas, liver and adipose tissues. In-silico studies also proved that hesperidin binds to leptin receptor with higher affinity as compared to that of orlistat and induces the favorable variations in geometrical conformation of leptin receptor to promote its association with leptin which may lead to the cascades of reactions culminating the lipolysis of fats that may ultimately lead to cure obesity. The results of this study may be a significant expectation among the forthcoming treatment strategies for leptin and insulin resistance.

Biological activities, isolated compounds and HPLC profile of Verbascum nubicum

Context: Genus Verbascum (Scrophulariaceae) comprises about 360 species of flowering plants. Verbascum has been used in traditional medicine as an astringent, antitussive, analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Objective: Nothing was found in the available literature concerning Verbascum nubicum Murb; therefore, the study evaluates the biological activities, isolated compounds and HPLC profile. Materials and methods: Methanol extract (VME) and butanol fraction (VBF) of air-dried powdered V. nubicum were obtained. Four compounds were isolated from VBE and identified by 1H- and 13C-NMR. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profile was determined for (VME). LD50, in vitro antioxidant, in vivo antiulcerogenic and anti-inflammatory activities as well as hepatoprotective activity were assessed. Anti-ulcerogenic and hepatoprotective activities were supported by histopathological examinations. Results: HPLC analysis of VME revealed the presence of luteolin 7-glucoside (2215.43 mg/100 g), hesperidin (954.51 mg/100 g) and apigenin (233.15 mg/100 g) as major compounds. Four compounds were isolated and confirmed by NMR data, were identified as gentiopicroside, luteolin, aucubin and gallic acid. The LD50 of VME and VBF extracts were calculated to be 8200 and 4225 mg/kg b.w., respectively. IC50 values of VBE and VMF as measured by DPPH·method were 43.6 and 50 µg/mL, respectively. Also, anti-inflammatory effect of VME (400 mg/kg b.w.) and VBF (200 mg/kg b.w.) induced edema model after 120 min were 61.93 and 56.13%, respectively. Antiulcerogenic activity of VME (400 mg/kg b.w.) and VBF (200 mg/kg b.w.) in albino rats were 65.14 and 84.57%, respectively. Conclusions: The V. nubicum extracts displayed safe and promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties. It can be also applied in the pharmacy industry, food industry and healthcare.

Protective Effect of Hesperidin on Sodium Arsenite-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Rats

The present study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of hesperidin (HSP) against sodium arsenite (SA)-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats. Thirty-five male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups as follows: control, HSP, SA, SA + HSP 100, and SA + HSP 200. Rats were orally gavaged with SA (10 mg/kg body weight) and HSP (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) for 15 days. SA increased oxidative damage by decreasing antioxidant enzyme activities, such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione (GSH) level and increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the kidney and liver tissues. In addition, it increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities and serum urea and creatinine levels. Furthermore, SA caused inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative DNA damage by increasing tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cysteine aspartate-specific protease-3 (caspase-3), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels in the kidney and liver tissues and by increasing liver p53 and kidney interleukin-6 (IL-6) expressions. In other words, HSP administration reduced apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and oxidative DNA damage significantly in SA-induced kidney and liver tissues depending on dose. In this study, it was seen that HSP showed a protective effect against SA-induced kidney and liver toxicity.

The effects of flavonoids on human first trimester trophoblast spheroidal stem cell self-renewal, invasion and JNK/p38 MAPK activation: Understanding the cytoprotective effects of these phytonutrients against oxidative stress

Adequate invasion and complete remodelling of the maternal spiral arteries by the invading extravillous trophoblasts are the major determinants of a successful pregnancy. Increase in oxidative stress during pregnancy has been linked to the reduction in trophoblast invasion and incomplete conversion of the maternal spiral arteries, resulting in pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and spontaneous miscarriages resulting in foetal/maternal mortality. The use of antioxidant therapy (vitamin C and E) and other preventative treatments (such as low dose aspirin) have been ineffective in preventing pre-eclampsia. Also, as the majority of antihypertensive drugs pose side effects, choosing an appropriate treatment would depend upon the efficacy and safety of mother/foetus. Since pre-eclampsia is mainly linked to placental oxidative stress, new diet-based antioxidants can be of use to prevent this condition. The antioxidant properties of flavonoids (naturally occurring phenolic compounds which are ubiquitously distributed in fruits and vegetables) have been well documented in non-trophoblast cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of flavonoids (quercetin, hesperidin) and their metabolites (Quercetin 3-O-β-glucuronide and hesperetin), either alone or in combination, on first trimester trophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo during oxidative stress. The data obtained from this study indicate that selected flavonoids, their respective metabolites significantly reduced the levels of reduced glutathione (p < 0.0001) during HR-induced oxidative stress. These flavonoids also inhibited the activation of pro-apoptotic kinases (p38 MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase) during HR-induced phosphorylation. In addition, they enhanced spheroid stem-like cell generation from HTR8/SVneo cells, aiding their invasion. Our data suggest that dietary intake of food rich in quercetin or hesperidin during early pregnancy can significantly improve trophoblast (placenta) health and function against oxidative stress.

Protective Effect of Hesperidin on the Oxidative Stress Induced by an Exhausting Exercise in Intensively Trained Rats

Intensive exercise can lead to oxidative stress, which can be particularly deleterious for lymphoid tissues. Hesperidin has demonstrated its antioxidant activity, but few studies focus on its influence on intensive training. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hesperidin on the oxidant/antioxidant status of lymphoid tissues after an intensive training program. Wistar rats were trained for five weeks (five days per week), including two exhaustion tests plus three trainings per week. During this period, animals were orally administrated with 200 mg/kg of hesperidin or vehicle (three days per week). The oxidative status was determined before, immediately after and 24 h after an additional exhaustion test. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by peritoneal macrophages, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in spleen, thymus and liver, and hepatic glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx) were assessed. Hesperidin prevented an increase in ROS production induced by the additional exhaustion test. Likewise, hesperidin avoided a decrease in SOD and catalase activities in the thymus and spleen that was found after the additional exhaustion test. The antioxidant effects of hesperidin were associated with a higher performance in the assessed training model. These results suggest that hesperidin, acting as an antioxidant, can prevent oxidative stress induced by exercise and improve exercise performance.

Hesperidin opposes the negative impact of cyclophosphamide on mice kidneys

The present investigation examined the prospective nephroprotective effect of hesperidin (HSN) in mice challenged with a single i.p. injection of cyclophosphamide (CPE) at a dose of 200 mg/kg. HSN (100 and 200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was given for 10 days, starting 5 days prior to CPE administration. HSN significantly reduced the CPE-induced increments of serum creatinine and cystatin C. HSN also significantly reduced malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and caspase-3, and significantly raised total antioxidant capacity, and interleukin-10/tumor necrosis factor-α ratio in kidneys of mice received CPE. In addition, HSN significantly prevented the histopathological injury, and kidney injury molecule-1 expression in kidneys of mice given CPE. It was concluded that HSN guarded against nephrotoxic effect of CPE in mice by tackling oxidative/nitrative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Pathophysiology of iron overload-induced renal injury and dysfunction: Roles of renal oxidative stress and systemic inflammatory mediators

Iron-overload has been recognized as a risk factor for organ dysfunction and damage resulting in diseases such as liver and heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative diseases. This study investigated renal function and some systemic inflammatory indices in iron-overloaded male Wistar rats. Thirty animals were equally distributed into 3groups and treated daily i.p. with either normal saline (0.2 ml; control), iron (as ferrous sulphate) (15 mg/kg) or iron (30 mg/kg) for 21days respectively. Post-treatment, blood samples were obtained from each animal by cardiac puncture after light anaesthesia into plain sample bottles. Iron, ferritin, transferrin, creatinine, urea, albumin, total protein, interleukin-6 (IL-6), prostaglandins-E2 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were analysed in serum. Kidney homogenates were obtained per group and analysed for superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO). Kidney histology was evaluated per group using both Haematoxylin and Eosin and periodic acid Schiff stains. Iron-overload caused a graded increase (p < 0.05) in serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, creatinine, urea, IL-6, TNF-α, TAC, MDA and NO levels as well as a reduction in albumin levels, renal SOD and GSH in groups 2 (iron 15 mg/kg) and 3 (iron 30 mg/kg) respectively compared to control. Histological evaluation of the kidney showed structural and tubular aberrations consistent with renal damage via inflammatory processes in iron overloaded rats. Our present study suggests that iron-overloading causes renal dysfunction by triggering the evolution of several inflammatory mediators which lead to a cascade of systemic and renal inflammatory processes that alter renal structure and function.