Synergistic effect of atorvastatin and Cyanidin-3-glucoside on angiotensin II-induced inflammation in vascular smooth muscle cells

Natural polyphenols as novel interventions for aging and age-related diseases: Exploring efficacy, mechanisms of action and implications for future research

Natural polyphenols are a group of components widely found in traditional Chinese medicines and have been demonstrated to delay or prevent the development of aging and age-related diseases in recent years. As far as we know, the studies of natural polyphenols in aging and aging-related diseases have never been extensively reviewed. In the present paper, we reviewed recent advances of natural polyphenols in aging and common age-related diseases and the current technological methods to improve the bioavailability of natural polyphenols. The results showed that natural polyphenols have the potential to prevent or treat aging and common age-related diseases through multiple mechanisms. Nanotechnology, structural modifications, and matrix processing could provide strong technical support for the development of natural polyphenols to prevent or treat aging and age-related diseases. In conclusion, natural polyphenols have important potential in the prevention and treatment of aging and age-related diseases.

Atorvastatin inhibits ischemia‒reperfusion-associated renal tubular cell ferroptosis by blocking the PGE2/EP4 signaling pathway

Renal ischemia‒reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main cause of acute kidney injury, and its pathological features are manifested primarily by renal tubular epithelial cell injury. The underlying mechanism involves ferroptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells. Atorvastatin (ATO) regulates ferroptosis, and this study explored its role in I/R-induced ferroptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells. We constructed a renal I/R rat model with bilateral renal pedicles using noninvasive arterial clips and placed HK-2 cells in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) incubators to construct the cell model. The damage to rat kidney tissues and HK-2 cells was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and flow cytometry, and the presence of associated proteins was identified through western blotting. Administering ATO markedly lessened the acute kidney damage caused by I/R, decreased the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CRE), and prevented apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells. Treatment with ATO additionally suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and markers linked to ferroptosis (Fe2+, ROS, MDA, ACSL4, and COX2), thereby reducing acute kidney damage associated with I/R. The expression of PGE2 in renal I/R injury is related to the degree of renal injury, and it mainly regulates ferroptosis by binding to EP4. ATO effectively inhibited the expression of PGE2 and EP4. Overall, this study revealed that ATO inhibited ferroptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells by blocking the PGE2/EP4 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating I/R-induced kidney injury.

Recent advances on cyanidin-3-O-glucoside in preventing obesity-related metabolic disorders: A comprehensive review

Anthocyanins, found in various pigmented plants as secondary metabolites, represent a class of dietary polyphenols known for their bioactive properties, demonstrating health-promoting effects against several chronic diseases. Among these, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is one of the most prevalent types of anthocyanins. Upon consumption, C3G undergoes phases I and II metabolism by oral epithelial cells, absorption in the gastric epithelium, and gut transformation (phase II & microbial metabolism), with limited amounts reaching the bloodstream. Obesity, characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, is a global health concern associated with heightened risks of disability, illness, and mortality. This comprehensive review delves into the biodegradation and absorption dynamics of C3G within the gastrointestinal tract. It meticulously examines the latest research findings, drawn from in vitro and in vivo models, presenting evidence underlining C3G's bioactivity. Notably, C3G has demonstrated significant efficacy in combating obesity, by regulating lipid metabolism, specifically decreasing lipid synthesis, increasing fatty acid oxidation, and reducing lipid accumulation. Additionally, C3G enhances energy homeostasis by boosting energy expenditure, promoting the activity of brown adipose tissue, and stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis. Furthermore, C3G shows potential in managing various prevalent obesity-related conditions. These include cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and hypertension through the suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, enhancement of endogenous antioxidant enzyme levels, and inhibition of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and by exercising its cardioprotective and vascular effects by decreasing pulmonary artery thickness and systolic pressure which enhances vascular relaxation and angiogenesis. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and insulin resistance (IR) are also managed by reducing gluconeogenesis via AMPK pathway activation, promoting autophagy, protecting pancreatic β-cells from oxidative stress and enhancing glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Additionally, C3G improves insulin sensitivity by upregulating GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 expression and regulating the PI3K/Akt pathway. C3G exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, and shifting macrophage polarization from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. C3G demonstrates antioxidative effects by enhancing the expression of antioxidant enzymes, reducing ROS production, and activating the Nrf2/AMPK signaling pathway. Moreover, these mechanisms also contribute to attenuating inflammatory bowel disease and regulating gut microbiota by decreasing Firmicutes and increasing Bacteroidetes abundance, restoring colon length, and reducing levels of inflammatory cytokines. The therapeutic potential of C3G extends beyond metabolic disorders; it has also been found effective in managing specific cancer types and neurodegenerative disorders. The findings of this research can provide an important reference for future investigations that seek to improve human health through the use of naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

Role of post-translational modifications of Sp1 in cardiovascular diseases

Specific protein 1 (Sp1) is pivotal in sustaining baseline transcription as well as modulating cell signaling pathways and transcription factors activity. Through interactions with various proteins, especially transcription factors, Sp1 controls the expression of target genes, influencing numerous biological processes. Numerous studies have confirmed Sp1's significant regulatory role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of Sp1, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, glycosylation, SUMOylation, and S-sulfhydration, can enhance or modify its transcriptional activity and DNA-binding stability. These modifications also regulate Sp1 expression across different cell types. Sp1 is crucial in regulating non-coding gene expression and the activity of proteins in response to pathophysiological stimuli. Understanding Sp1 PTMs advances our knowledge of cell signaling pathways in controlling Sp1 stability during cardiovascular disease onset and progression. It also aids in identifying novel pharmaceutical targets and biomarkers essential for preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases.

A nonionic microemulsion co-loaded with atorvastatin and quercetin: Simultaneous spectroscopic analysis and payload release kinetics

In this study, we have co-loadedatorvastatin (ATR) and quercetin (QCT) in a nonionic microemulsion. After developing a derivative ratio spectrophotometric technique for simultaneous analysis of ATR and QCT, pseudoternary phase diagram was constructed utilizing1:4 d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) and ethanol as surfactant and cosurfactant, respectively. Oleic acid was used as oil phase. Structural characterization of the formulation was carried out along a water dilution line created in monophasic region. Characterizations at these dilution points were performed using dynamic light scattering and polarized light microscopy. The average hydrodynamic size of the optimized formulation was found to be 18.9 nm and it did not change upon loading of ATR and QCT. In vitro release was assessed for the formulations loaded with different ratios of ATR and QCT, and the data were fitted to different mathematical models. Interestingly, we noticed differences in release kinetics during changes in dose ratios, particularly for QCT. Higuchi kinetics, observed at equal dose, shifted to Korsmeyer-Peppas model at higher QCT-ATR ratio (2:1 and 4:1). This difference is attributable to the ability of QCT molecules of overwhelming the interface at higher concentrations. Altogether, our observations highlight that the ratio of payloads should be selected carefully in order to avoid unpredictable release patterns.

Essential role of Nrf2 in sulforaphane-induced protection against angiotensin II-induced aortic injury

AIMS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the primary factors underlying angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced aortic damage. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important antioxidative stress factor. Sulforaphane (SFN), which is naturally found in cruciferous vegetables, is an Nrf2 agonist that is safe for oral administration. Here, we aimed to explore the potential of SFN in protecting against Ang II-induced aortic damage by upregulating Nrf2 expression via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β)/Fyn pathway.

MAIN METHODS AND KEY FINDINGS

Wild-type (WT) C57BL/6J and Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2-KO) mice were injected with Ang II to induce aortic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiac remodeling (increased fibrosis and wall thickness). SFN treatment prevented aortic damage via Nrf2 activation in the WT mice. However, the protective effect of SFN on Ang II-induced aortic damage and upregulation of genes downstream of Nrf2 were not observed in Nrf2-KO mice. SFN induced the upregulation of aortic Nrf2 and inhibited the accumulation of ERK, GSK-3β, and Fyn in the nuclei.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results revealed that Nrf2 plays a central role in protecting against Ang II-induced aortic injury. Furthermore, SFN prevented Ang II-induced aortic damage by activating Nrf2 through the ERK/GSK-3β/Fyn pathway.

Vascular Protective Effect and Its Possible Mechanism of Action on Selected Active Phytocompounds: A Review

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is characterized by an imbalance of vasodilation and vasoconstriction, deficiency of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), and proinflammatory factors. This dysfunction is a key to the early pathological development of major cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. Therefore, modulation of the vascular endothelium is considered an important therapeutic strategy to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system. Epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetables promotes vascular health, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This is mainly attributed to the phytochemical compounds contained in these resources. Various databases, including Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Directory of Open Access Journals, were searched to identify studies demonstrating the vascular protective effects of phytochemical compounds. The literature had revealed abundant data on phytochemical compounds protecting and improving the vascular system. Of the numerous compounds reported, curcumin, resveratrol, cyanidin-3-glucoside, berberine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and quercetin are discussed in this review to provide recent information on their vascular protective mechanisms in vivo and in vitro. Phytochemical compounds are promising therapeutic agents for vascular dysfunction due to their antioxidative mechanisms. However, future human studies will be necessary to confirm the clinical effects of these vascular protective mechanisms.

Antioxidant Effects of Statins by Modulating Nrf2 and Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling in Different Diseases

Statins are competitive inhibitors of hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase and have been used to treat elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) for almost four decades. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are independent of the lipid-lowering effects of statins, i.e., their pleiotropic effects, might be beneficial in the prevention or treatment of many diseases. This review discusses the antioxidant effects of statins achieved by modulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2/ heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) pathway in different organs and diseases. Nrf2 and other proteins involved in the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway have a crucial role in cellular responses to oxidative stress, which is a risk factor for ASCVD. Statins can significantly increase the DNA-binding activity of Nrf2 and induce the expression of its target genes, such as HO-1 and glutathione peroxidase) GPx, (thus protecting the cells against oxidative stress. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of statins, which are independent of their lipid-lowering effects, could be partly explained by the modulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Carbon monoxide releasing molecule-2 attenuates angiotensin II-induced IL-6/Jak2/Stat3-associated inflammation by inhibiting NADPH oxidase- and mitochondria-derived ROS in human aortic smooth muscle cells

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common inflammatory vascular disease. Angiotensin II (Ang II) involves in AAA progression by promoting the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells, the degradation of extracellular matrices, and the generation of ROS to lead to vascular inflammation. Carbon monoxide releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2) is known to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. However, it remains unclear whether CORM-2 can suppress Ang II-induced vascular inflammation to prevent AAA progression. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the vasoprotective effects of CORM-2 against Ang II-induced inflammatory responses of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) and the underlying mechanisms of those effects. The results showed that Ang II induced inflammatory responses of HASMCs via NADPH oxidase- and mitochondria-derived ROS/NF-κB/IL-6/Jak2/Stat3 pathway which was attenuated by the pretreatment with CORM-2. Additionally, CORM-2 further exhibited anti-inflammatory activities in Ang II-stimulated HASMCs, as indicated by the reduction of monocyte adhesion to HASMCs and migration of HASMCs via the suppression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 as well as MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels, respectively. Moreover, Ang II-induced COX-2-mediated PGE₂ secretion was also inhibited by the pretreatment with CORM-2. Importantly, our data demonstrated that CORM-2 reversed Ang II-induced IL-6 overexpression dependent on Nrf2 activation and HO-1 expression. Taken together, the present study indicates that CORM-2-induced Nrf2/HO-1 alleviates IL-6/Jak2/Stat3-mediated inflammatory responses to Ang II by inhibiting NADPH oxidase- and mitochondria-derived ROS, suggesting that CORM-2 is a promising pharmacologic candidate to reverse the pathological changes involved in the inflammation of vessel wall for the prevention and treatment of AAA.

Antioxidant properties of anthocyanins and their mechanism of action in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis develops due to lipid accumulation in the arterial wall and sclerosis as result of increased hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress, lipid oxidation, and protein oxidation. However, improving antioxidant status through diet may prevent the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. It is believed that polyphenol-rich plants contribute to the inverse relationship between fruit and vegetable intake and chronic disease. Anthocyanins are flavonoid polyphenols with antioxidant properties that have been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The consumption of anthocyanins increases total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant defense enzymes, and HDL antioxidant properties by several measures in preclinical and clinical populations. Anthocyanins appear to impart antioxidant actions via direct antioxidant properties, as well as indirectly via inducing intracellular Nrf2 activation and antioxidant gene expression. These actions counter oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling in cells present in atherosclerotic plaques, including macrophages and endothelial cells. Overall, anthocyanins may protect against atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease through their effects on cellular antioxidant status, oxidative stress, and inflammation; however, their underlying mechanisms of action appear to be complex and require further elucidation.

Cyanidin-3-glucoside suppresses the progression of lung adenocarcinoma by downregulating TP53I3 and inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to unravel the role of Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) and its potential mechanisms in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

METHODS

The cell clones, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in H1299 and A549 cells were determined by colony formation assay, 5-ethynyl-20 deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, flow cytometry, and transwell assay, respectively. The expression of p53-induced gene 3 (TP53I3) was assessed and the prognostic values of TP53I3 in LUAD via the dataset from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). In addition, the mRNA and protein expressions were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot.

RESULTS

C3G inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of, and also promoted the apoptosis in H1299 and A549 cells. The database of TCGA showed TP53I3 was highly expressed in LUAD tissues and correlated with the poor prognosis of LUAD patients. Moreover, we also found that C3G inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion, and promoted apoptosis in H1299 and A549 cells by downregulating TP53I3. Additionally, C3G could inhibit the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in H1299 and A549 cells by downregulating TP53I3.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that C3G could inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion, and also facilitate the apoptosis through downregulating TP53I3 and inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in LUAD.

Effects of Anthocyanins on Vascular Health

Cardiovascular disorders are leading mortality causes worldwide, often with a latent evolution. Vascular health depends on endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques. Preventive medicine deserves special attention, focusing on modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including diet. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has well-known health benefits, especially due to its polyphenolic components. Anthocyanins, water-soluble flavonoid species, responsible for the red-blue color in plants and commonly found in berries, exert favorable effects on the endothelial function, oxidative stress, inhibit COX-1, and COX-2 enzymes, exert antiatherogenic, antihypertensive, antiglycation, antithrombotic, and anti-inflammatory activity, ameliorate dyslipidemia and arterial stiffness. The present review aims to give a current overview of the mechanisms involved in the vascular protective effect of anthocyanins from the human diet, considering epidemiological data, in vitro and in vivo preclinical research, clinical observational, retrospective, intervention and randomized studies, dietary and biomarker studies, and discussing preventive benefits of anthocyanins and future research directions.

Berries and Their Polyphenols as a Potential Therapy for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction: A Mini-Review

Ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) is a common diagnosis with a higher prevalence in women compared to men. Despite the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease and no structural heart disease, INOCA is associated with major adverse cardiovascular outcomes as well a significant contributor to angina and related disability. A major feature of INOCA is coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), which can be detected by non-invasive imaging and invasive coronary physiology assessments in humans. CMD is associated with epicardial endothelial-dependent and -independent dysfunction, diffuse atherosclerosis, and left-ventricular hypertrophy, all of which lead to insufficient blood flow to the myocardium. Inflammatory and oxidative stress signaling, upregulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and adrenergic receptor signaling are major drivers of CMD. Treatment of CMD centers around addressing cardiovascular risk factors; however, there are limited treatment options for those who do not respond to traditional anti-anginal therapies. In this review, we highlight the ability of berry-derived polyphenols to modulate those pathways. The evidence supports the need for future clinical trials to investigate the effectiveness of berries and their polyphenols in the treatment of CMD in INOCA patients.

Anthocyanins As Modulators of Cell Redox-Dependent Pathways in Non-Communicable Diseases

Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), mostly represented by cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic pulmonary diseases, cancers, and several chronic pathologies, are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality, and are mainly related to the occurrence of metabolic risk factors. Anthocyanins (ACNs) possess a wide spectrum of biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective and chemopreventive properties, which are able to promote human health. Although ACNs present an apparent low bioavailability, their metabolites may play an important role in the in vivo protective effects observed. This article directly addresses the scientific evidences supporting that ACNs could be useful to protect human population against several NCDs not only acting as antioxidant but through their capability to modulate cell redox-dependent signaling. In particular, ACNs interact with the NF-κB and AP-1 signal transduction pathways, which respond to oxidative signals and mediate a proinflammatory effect, and the Nrf2/ARE pathway and its regulated cytoprotective proteins (GST, NQO, HO-1, etc.), involved in both cellular antioxidant defenses and elimination/inactivation of toxic compounds, so countering the alterations caused by conditions of chemical/oxidative stress. In addition, supposed crosstalks could contribute to explain the protective effects of ACNs in different pathological conditions characterized by an altered balance among these pathways. Thus, this review underlines the importance of specific nutritional molecules for human health and focuses on the molecular targets and the underlying mechanisms of ACNs against various diseases.

Cyanidin-3-glucoside binds to talin and modulates colon cancer cell adhesions and 3D growth

Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) is a natural pigment, found in many colorful fruits and vegetables. It has many health benefits, including anti-inflammation, cancer prevention, and anti-diabetes. Although C3G is assumed to be an antioxidant, it has been reported to affect cell-matrix adhesions. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is unknown. Here, we show that the expression of talin1, a key regulator of integrins and cell adhesions, negatively correlated with the survival rate of colon cancer patients and that depletion of talin1 inhibited 3D spheroid growth in colon cancer cells. Interestingly, C3G bound to talin and promoted the interaction of talin with β1A-integrin. Molecular docking analysis shows that C3G binds to the interface of the talin-β-integrin complex, acting as an allosteric regulator and altering the interaction between talin and integrin. Moreover, C3G promoted colon cancer cell attachment to fibronectin. While C3G had no significant effect on colon cancer cell proliferation, it significantly inhibited 3D spheroid growth in fibrin gel assays. Since C3G has no or very low toxicity, it could be potentially used for colon cancer prevention or therapy.

A red orange and lemon by-products extract rich in anthocyanins inhibits the progression of diabetic nephropathy

The major cause of end-stage renal disease is the diabetic nephropathy. Oxidative stress contributes to the development of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this study we have evaluated the effect of a diet with a new standardized of red orange and lemon extract (RLE) rich in anthocyanins (ANT) in the progression of the kidney disease on Zucker diabetic fatty rats. Oxidative stress and renal function were analyzed. In diabetic rats, the RLE restored the blood glucose levels, body weight, and normalized the reactive oxygen species (ROS) total pathways. The kidney inflammation, in diabetic rats, has not shown significant change, showing that the oxidative stress rather than to inflammatory processes is a triggering factor in the renal complication associated with T2DM. Therefore, the administration of the RLE prevents this complication and this effect could be related to the inhibition of ROS production.

Anthocyanin Encapsulated by Ferulic Acid-Grafted-Maltodextrin (FA-g-MD) Microcapsules Potentially Improved its Free Radical Scavenging Capabilities Against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant activity and release behavior of anthocyanin (ANC) loaded within FA-g-MD wall (ANC-FA-g-MD microcapsule) in vitro. The microencapsulation of ANC was prepared by spray drying and displayed a biphasic release profile. The combination of ANC and FA-g-MD (0.0625–1 mg/mL) showed a higher antioxidant activity than that of both individuals. A possible intermolecular interaction between ANC and FA-g-MD was studied by UV-vis spectra. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) test, and protein expression of quinone oxidoreductase 1(NQO1), glutathione reductase (GSR) and γ-glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (γ-GCLC) were measured through human colon cancer cells (HT-29). After a 24-hour incubation of the HT-29, the combinations (0–60 μg/mL) exhibited a high potential to diminish the ROS level. And the distinct upregulated expressions of GCLC and NQO1 of HT-29 were detected after treatment with combinations compared to those of single ones. These results suggested that the ANC-FA-g-MD microcapsules exerts enhanced antioxidant effect with capability of the modulation of GCLC and NQO1.

Uncovering the anti-proliferation mechanism and bioactive compounds in red kidney bean coat against B16-F10 melanoma cells by metabolomics and network pharmacology analysis

In this study, coat (RKBC) and kernel (RKBK) extracts of red kidney bean were prepared, and their chemical compositions and potential anti-cancer activity against B16-F10 cells were evaluated.

Atorvastatin downregulates HSP22 expression in an atherosclerotic model in vitro and in vivo

One of the pathological functions of heat shock protein 22 (HSP22) is the association with inflammatory diseases and atherosclerosis. However, the effects of a high-fat diet (HFD) or oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) combined with atorvastatin (ATV) on HSP22 expression are entirely unknown. The present study investigated the effects of ATV on HSP22 expression in HFD-induced atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE^−/−) mice and in ox-LDL-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Furthermore, the influence of HSP22-knockdown on the HFD- or ox-LDL-induced atherosclerotic model was also examined. It was found that HFD or ox-LDL treatment significantly increased HSP22 expression in the serum and aorta, accompanied by decreased phosphorylated (p)-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p-eNOS) activity and activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). However, these effects were suppressed by treatment with ATV. Furthermore, HSP22-knockdown showed reduced ox-LDL-induced lesions, evidenced by increased p-eNOS activity and inactivated p38 MAPK, while suppression of cell proliferation inhibition and cell cycle arrest were also observed. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that HFD or ox-LDL increased the expression of HSP22 and p-p38 MAPK, and decreased the p-eNOS activity in vitro and in vivo, and ATV could reduce the effects by downregulating HSP22 expression.

Clinical significance and efficacy analysis of atorvastatin in the treatment of patients with cerebral infarction and aspiration pneumonia

Therapeutic efficacy of the use of oral atorvastatin in the treatment of patients with aspiration pneumonia complicated with cerebral infarction was investigated. Three hundred and fourteen cerebral infarction patients complicated with aspiration pneumonia who were admitted to the emergency department of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Jingxi Branch from May 2015 to July 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 160 patients who took atorvastatin were treated as observation group, and the remaining 154 patients were the control group. Patients were given basic treatment after diagnosis, and atorvastatin was also used for patients in the observation group. Venous blood was extracted to detect blood lipids and inflammatory cytokines. Patients were followed up for a period of six months, and the mortality was recorded. After treatment, blood lipid function and inflammatory factors in both groups were significantly improved (P<0.05). Hospital stay in the observation group (86.88%) was significantly shorter than that in the control group (76.33%) (P<0.01). After treatment, levels of TC, LDL, TG and CRP in the observation group (86.25%) were significantly lower than those in the control group (76.32%) (P=0.01). However, after treatment, level of HDL-C in the observation group (11.88%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (23.38%) (P=0.01). After treatment, levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). Total effective rate in the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P=0.01). Total death rate in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P=0.02). In conclusion, atorvastatin is effective in the treatment of cerebral infarction patients complicated with aspiration pneumonia.

Effects of cyanidin 3-0-glucoside on cardiac structure and function in an animal model of myocardial infarction

Cyanidin 3-0-glucoside (CG) is a polyphenol with potential health benefits. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, the cardioprotective effects of CG in an animal model of myocardial infarction (MI), a major cause of death worldwide. Sham and MI rats were administered CG (10 mg kg^-1 day^-1) daily for one week prior to surgery, and 8 weeks post-surgery. Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac structure and function at 4 and 8 weeks. At 4 weeks, MI rats had significantly lower body mass when compared to control rats, and CG administration significantly prevented this decrease. Four-week MI rats also showed significantly increased left ventricle dilation, end systolic and end diastolic volumes in comparison to controls, and CG significantly prevented these adverse changes. Ejection fraction was significantly lower in 4-week MI rats in comparison to controls, and CG had no effect on this parameter. At 8 weeks, body mass was significantly lower in MI rats when compared to control rats, and CG significantly prevented this decrease. At 8 weeks, MI rats showed a significant increase in left ventricle dilation and isovolumic relaxation time, while ejection fraction was significantly lower when compared to controls; these parameters were not altered by CG treatment. Eight-week MI rats had significantly higher level of oxidative stress in heart tissue in comparison to controls, and CG administration did not prevent this increase. In conclusion, administration of CG was able to significantly preserve body mass in both 4 and 8 weeks MI rats, as well as significantly prevent cardiac dilation in 4 weeks MI rats. However, CG was unable to sustain this cardioprotection, as cardiac structure and function were not significantly improved in 8 weeks MI rats.

Transcription Factor NRF2 as a Therapeutic Target for Chronic Diseases: A Systems Medicine Approach

Systems medicine has a mechanism-based rather than a symptom- or organ-based approach to disease and identifies therapeutic targets in a nonhypothesis-driven manner. In this work, we apply this to transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) by cross-validating its position in a protein-protein interaction network (the NRF2 interactome) functionally linked to cytoprotection in low-grade stress, chronic inflammation, metabolic alterations, and reactive oxygen species formation. Multiscale network analysis of these molecular profiles suggests alterations of NRF2 expression and activity as a common mechanism in a subnetwork of diseases (the NRF2 diseasome). This network joins apparently heterogeneous phenotypes such as autoimmune, respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases, along with cancer. Importantly, this approach matches and confirms in silico several applications for NRF2-modulating drugs validated in vivo at different phases of clinical development. Pharmacologically, their profile is as diverse as electrophilic dimethyl fumarate, synthetic triterpenoids like bardoxolone methyl and sulforaphane, protein-protein or DNA-protein interaction inhibitors, and even registered drugs such as metformin and statins, which activate NRF2 and may be repurposed for indications within the NRF2 cluster of disease phenotypes. Thus, NRF2 represents one of the first targets fully embraced by classic and systems medicine approaches to facilitate both drug development and drug repurposing by focusing on a set of disease phenotypes that appear to be mechanistically linked. The resulting NRF2 drugome may therefore rapidly advance several surprising clinical options for this subset of chronic diseases.

Simvastatin Treatment Upregulates HO-1 in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm but Independently of Nrf2

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), encoded by HMOX1 gene and regulated by Nrf2 transcription factor, is a cytoprotective enzyme. Its deficiency may exacerbate abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development, which is also often associated with hyperlipidemia. Beneficial effects of statins, the broadly used antilipidemic drugs, were attributed to modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 axis. However, the effect of statins on Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in patients with AAA has not been studied yet. We analyzed AAA tissue from patients treated with simvastatin (N = 28) or without statins (N = 14). Simvastatin treatment increased HO-1 protein level in AAA, both in endothelial cells (ECs) and in smooth muscle cells (SMCs), but increased Nrf2 localization was restricted only to vasa vasorum. Nrf2 target genes HMOX1, NQO1, and GCLM expression remained unchanged in AAA. In vitro studies showed that simvastatin raises HO-1 protein level slightly in ECs and to much higher extent in SMCs, which is not related to Nrf2/ARE activation, although HMOX1 expression is upregulated by simvastatin in both cell types. In conclusion, simvastatin-induced modulation of HO-1 level in ECs and SMCs in vitro is not related to Nrf2/ARE activity. Likewise, divergent HO-1 and Nrf2 localization together with stable expression of Nrf2 target genes, including HMOX1, in AAA tissue denotes Nrf2 independency.

Silencing MR-1 attenuates atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice induced by angiotensin II through FAK-Akt-mTOR-NF-kappaB signaling pathway

Myofibrillogenesis regulator-1 (MR-1) is a novel protein involved in cellular proliferation, migration, inflammatory reaction and signal transduction. However, little information is available on the relationship between MR-1 expression and the progression of atherosclerosis. Here we report atheroprotective effects of silencing MR-1 in a model of Ang II-accelerated atherosclerosis, characterized by suppression focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) signaling pathway, and atherosclerotic lesion macrophage content. In this model, administration of the siRNA-MR-1 substantially attenuated Ang II-accelerated atherosclerosis with stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques and inhibited FAK, Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and NF-kB activation, which was associated with suppression of inflammatory factor and atherogenic gene expression in the artery. In vitro studies demonstrated similar changes in Ang II-treated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and macrophages: siRNA-MR-1 inhibited the expression levels of proinflammatory factor. These studies uncover crucial proinflammatory mechanisms of Ang II and highlight actions of silencing MR-1 to inhibit Ang II signaling, which is atheroprotective.

Blackberry, raspberry and black raspberry polyphenol extracts attenuate angiotensin II-induced senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells

Activation of angiotensin II (Ang II) signaling during aging increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to vascular senescence, a process linked to the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Consumption of fruits and vegetables, particularly berries, is associated with decreased incidence of CVD, which has mainly been attributed to the polyphenol content of these foods. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the role of blackberry (BL), raspberry (RB), and black raspberry (BRB) polyphenol extracts in attenuating Ang II-induced senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and to determine the molecular mechanisms involved. BL, RB and BRB polyphenol extracts (200 μg ml^-1) attenuated Ang II-induced senescence, denoted by decreased number of cells positive for senescence associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) and down-regulation of p21 and p53 expression, which were associated with decreased ROS levels and Ang II signaling. BL polyphenol extract increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1 expression, attenuated the up-regulation of Nox1 expression and the phosphorylation of Akt, p38MAPK and ERK1/2 induced by Ang II, and reduced senescence in response to Nox1 overexpression. In contrast, RB and BRB polyphenol extracts up-regulated the expression of SOD1, SOD2, and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), but exerted no effect on Nox1 expression nor on senescence induced by Nox1 overexpression. BRB reduced signaling similar to BL, while RB was unable to reduce Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that inhibition of Akt, p38MAPK and ERK1/2 as well as down-regulation of Nox1 by siRNA prevented senescence induced by Ang II. Our findings indicate that Ang II-induced senescence is attenuated by BL polyphenols through a Nox1-dependent mechanism and by RB and BRB polyphenols in a Nox1-independent manner, likely by increasing the cellular antioxidant capacity.

Action mechanism and cardiovascular effect of anthocyanins: a systematic review of animal and human studies

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are an important cause of death worldwide. Anthocyanins are a subgroup of flavonoids found in berries, flowers, fruits and leaves. In epidemiological and clinical studies, these polyphenols have been associated with improved cardiovascular risk profiles as well as decreased comorbidities. Human intervention studies using berries, vegetables, parts of plants and cereals (either fresh or as juice) or purified anthocyanin-rich extracts have demonstrated significant improvements in low density lipoproteins oxidation, lipid peroxidation, total plasma antioxidant capacity, and dyslipidemia as well as reduced levels of CVD molecular biomarkers. This review discusses the use of anthocyanins in animal models and their applications in human medicine, as dietary supplements or as new potent drugs against cardiovascular disease.