Molecular mechanisms underlying chemopreventive activities of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals: down-regulation of COX-2 and iNOS through suppression of NF-kappa B activation

Olmesartan attenuates doxorubicin-elicited testicular toxicity: The interaction between sirtuin-1, HMGB1/NLRP3 inflammasome/gasdermin D signaling, and AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy

BACKGROUND

In the recent years, there has been an increased incidence of testicular toxicity associated with doxorubicin (DOX) use in cancer therapy. The mechanisms of this adverse effect may include induction of oxidative stress with augmentation of the inflammatory and the apoptotic signals in the testicular tissues. The ongoing research is directed towards the exploration of new agents that are capable of overcoming this health problem. This study was a trial to evaluate the efficacy of Olmesartan as a protective agent against DOX-induced testicular dysfunction in male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into control group, DOX-injected group, and three DOX-injected groups treated with olmesartan at 3 dose levels (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day). The effect of the different treatments was assessed at the biochemical and the morphological levels.

KEY FINDINGS

Olmesartan administered to DOX-treated rats induced dose-dependent restoration of the testicular weight and functions, normalization of the hormonal profile, augmentation of the antioxidant defenses, and potentiation of AMPK/mTOR-driven autophagy in comparison to rats treated with DOX alone. These effects were accompanied with a dose-dependent significant mitigation of the cellular events related to pyroptosis and inflammation and a significant amelioration of the testicular morphological changes induced by DOX.

SIGNIFICANCE

Olmesartan may represent a promising therapy for DOX-elicited testicular dysfunction, possibly via dose-dependent antioxidant, anti-pyroptotic, anti-inflammatory, and autophagy enhancing effects.

Bacillus clausii spores maintain gut homeostasis in murine ulcerative colitis via modulating microbiota, apoptosis, and the TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome cascade

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a persistent immune-mediated disorder lacking effective treatment, is distinguished by gut microbiota dysbiosis, abnormal activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, and apoptosis. Despite growing attention to these factors, understanding their significance in UC pathogenesis remains a challenge. The present study explores the potential therapeutic impact of Bacillus clausii (Bc) spores in a murine UC model induced by drinking 4 % (w/v) dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in C57BL/6 mice. Subsequently, the DSS-induced mice were orally administered either Bc at varying concentrations (105 and 1010 Colony forming unit, CFU) or sulfasalazine (SSZ) at a dosage of 200 mg/kg for 7 days. The disease-specific activity index (DAI) was calculated daily utilizing parameters such as body weight, diarrhea, and bloody stool. Changes in fecal Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes abundance, colonic TXNIP and NLRP3 contents, as well as colonic caspase-1, IL-1β, Bax, and Bcl-2 expression, were investigated. Additionally, markers related to oxidative stress and inflammation, histopathological changes and caspase-3 immunohistochemistry testing were conducted. DSS-treated mice had significantly higher DAI scores compared to controls, indicating severe colitis. However, SSZ treatment or Bc (105 CFU) dramatically lowered DAI scores, with the highest Bc dosage (1010 CFU) producing the greatest improvement. Furthermore, Bc (1010 CFU) substantially (p < 0.05) boosted fecal Firmicutes while decreased Bacteroidetes, indicating reversal of gut dysbiosis. Bc effectively reduced colonic oxidative stress and inflammation by replenishing GSH and catalase and modulating the NF-κB, Nrf2/HO-1, and TXNIP/NLRP3 pathways. Additionally, Bc (1010 CFU) exhibited histologically almost normal mucosa, with maintained architecture and reduced apoptosis, as seen by normalization of Bcl2 and Bax with decreased caspase-3. Collectively, these findings point to the potential usefulness of Bc spores in preventing and treating DSS-induced colitis, positioning them as a promising candidate for UC management.

Innovative Sericin-Based Film-Forming Gel for Wound Healing: Development and Performance Evaluation

The development of effective wound dressings remains a critical challenge in medical treatments, requiring materials that promote healing, minimize infection, and enhance tissue regeneration. This study evaluated the wound-healing potential of sericin-based film-forming gels. Six formulations were developed by combining varying concentrations of sericin, a protein derived from silk cocoons, with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). These formulations were evaluated for physical properties including drying time, pH, spreadability, stability, swelling ratio, flexibility, and adhesion. Film-forming gel is an attractive option for wound dressing due to its flexibility, adhesion, and infrequent reapplication. The F4 formulation (1% sericin) demonstrated superior performances in drying time, spreadability, stability, swelling ratio, flexibility, and skin adhesion, was easy to apply, and formed a stable film on drying. Biological evaluations showed that F4 exhibited excellent compatibility with skin fibroblast cells, maintained a suitable pH, and significantly promoted cell proliferation and migration. The F4 formulation also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting iNOS expression and nitric oxide production, offering mechanical stability, biological activity, and ease of use with significant potential for treating acute and chronic wounds.

Pharmacological intervention for chronic phase of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury is an intractable traumatic injury. The most common hurdles faced during spinal cord injury are failure of axonal regrowth and reconnection to target sites. These also tend to be the most challenging issues in spinal cord injury. As spinal cord injury progresses to the chronic phase, lost motor and sensory functions are not recovered. Several reasons may be attributed to the failure of recovery from chronic spinal cord injury. These include factors that inhibit axonal growth such as activated astrocytes, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, myelin-associated proteins, inflammatory microglia, and fibroblasts that accumulate at lesion sites. Skeletal muscle atrophy due to denervation is another chronic and detrimental spinal cord injury-specific condition. Although several intervention strategies based on multiple outlooks have been attempted for treating spinal cord injury, few approaches have been successful. To treat chronic spinal cord injury, neural cells or tissue substitutes may need to be supplied in the cavity area to enable possible axonal growth. Additionally, stimulating axonal growth activity by extrinsic factors is extremely important and essential for maintaining the remaining host neurons and transplanted neurons. This review focuses on pharmacotherapeutic approaches using small compounds and proteins to enable axonal growth in chronic spinal cord injury. This review presents some of these candidates that have shown promising outcomes in basic research ( in vivo animal studies) and clinical trials: AA-NgR(310)ecto-Fc (AXER-204), fasudil, phosphatase and tensin homolog protein antagonist peptide 4, chondroitinase ABC, intracellular sigma peptide, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, matrine, acteoside, pyrvate kinase M2, diosgenin, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, and fampridine-sustained release. Although the current situation suggests that drug-based therapies to recover function in chronic spinal cord injury are limited, potential candidates have been identified through basic research, and these candidates may be subjects of clinical studies in the future. Moreover, cocktail therapy comprising drugs with varied underlying mechanisms may be effective in treating the refractory status of chronic spinal cord injury.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Huberantha luensis and Ancistrocladus tectorius Extracts Through Inhibition of Nuclear Factor-κB and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathways

Inflammation is a crucial response to harmful stimuli, but its chronic activation contributes to various diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis, and neurological disorders. While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are widely used as anti-inflammation drugs, their extended usage often results in severe side effects, emphasizing the need for safer alternatives. Therefore, it is of the greatest importance to identify and discover new anti-inflammatory agents that exhibit a reduced incidence of adverse side effects. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory potential of methanol extracts from eight native Vietnamese plant species. These extracts were screened for their ability to inhibit nitric oxide production and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in lipopolysaccharides-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Among the tested extracts, those derived from Huberantha luensis (Pierre) Chaowasku and Ancistrocladus tectorius (Lour.) Merr. demonstrated notable reductions in NO, TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 levels. Further analysis revealed that these extracts are abundant in polyphenols and flavonoids, compounds recognized for their anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, these extracts exerted their effects by inhibiting the kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, as evidenced by reduced phosphorylation of the proteins. These results suggest that the methanol extracts obtained from H. luensis and A. tectorius possess considerable potential in paving the way towards the innovative development of new therapeutic approaches aimed at alleviating chronic inflammation.

Sinhyotaklisan alleviates inflammation in LPS-activated macrophages by modulating the heme oxygenase pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Shinhyotaklisan (SHTLS) is a time-honored traditional Korean herbal formula composed of four key herbs: Lonicerae Flos, Astragali Radix, Angelicae Gigantis Radix, and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. It has been extensively used to treat inflammatory diseases by expelling excessive heat, detoxifying the body, and promoting the drainage of pus from abscesses.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study examines the therapeutic effects of SHTLS and elucidates its mechanisms of action in alleviating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SHTLS was prepared by boiling four herbs in 30% ethanol, and its antioxidant and antimicrobial effects were assessed. Furthermore, SHTLS was applied to LPS-exposed RAW 264.7 cells, and its anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated using an MTT assay, nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and western blotting.

RESULTS

SHTLS demonstrated potent antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. It effectively suppressed LPS-induced inflammatory cascades, resulting in a significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6 and TNF-α, in murine macrophage cells. Moreover, SHTLS decreased COX-2 and iNOS expression levels, primarily through the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Additionally, SHTLS significantly reduced intracellular ROS and reactive nitrogen species levels by upregulating heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression. The anti-inflammatory effects of SHTLS were diminished by the addition of an HO-1 inhibitor, underscoring its strong association with intracellular antioxidant mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that SHTLS exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, primarily by upregulating HO-1 and inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammation-related conditions.

Fucoxanthin attenuates LPS-induced endometritis via inhibiting inflammatory factors through the NF-κB pathway

Endometritis is an infectious disease of the female reproductive system and commonly treated with antibiotics. However, the high resistance rates to antibiotics necessitate the urgent research for new and effective therapeutic strategies. The aim of this research is to explore the effect of fucoxanthin (FX) on endometritis through in vitro and in vivo assays. The effect of FX on inflammation was first explored in vitro using LPS-induced bovine endometrial epithelial (BEND) cell injury model. After the anti-inflammation effect of FX was confirmed in vitro, the effect of FX on endometritis was investigated in vivo using LPS-induced mice model. The female mice were randomly assigned into control, control + FX, LPS, and LPS + FX (100, 200 mg/kg) groups. The histological features of the uterus and expression levels of NF-κBp65 and inflammatory mediators (COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) in the uterine tissue were compared among the animal groups. Our in vitro results showed that LPS induced BEND cell damage while significantly enhancing the expression of NF-κBp65 and inflammatory mediators (COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Nevertheless, pretreatment with FX reversed the abnormal phenomena caused by LPS. In vivo, LPS treatment resulted in obvious histopathological uterus damages, which were alleviated by FX treatment. Consistent with the in vitro assay, FX treatment also inhibited the expression of NF-κBp65 and inflammatory mediators in the animal experiments. Our study implies that FX is a potential therapeutic agent for endometritis. The beneficial function of FX on endometritis was achieved by inhibiting the inflammatory factors through the NF-κB pathway.

Abiu-do-Mato (Pouteria caimito, Sapotaceae): A promising Amazonian fruit with rich chemical composition, antioxidant potential, and cytotoxic safety

The abiu-do-mato (Pouteria caimito) is a fruit highly valued by Amazonian populations; however, its chemical composition and properties remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to fill this gap by analyzing the fruit's chemical profile and evaluating its antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. The research assessed proximate composition through physicochemical analysis, mineral content via atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Total phenolic content was determined with the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, while fatty acid and volatile compound profiles were identified using GC-MS. Additionally, NMR and HRMS were employed to characterize the chemical composition of the pulp and peel, and cytotoxicity was evaluated in vitro. Results showed that the peel contained the highest levels of antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds, followed by the pulp and seeds. GC-MS analysis of hexane extracts identified 19 compounds, primarily volatiles and fatty acids, with palmitic, elaidic, and linoleic acids being the most abundant. Methanolic extracts revealed 17 compounds, including catechin and its derivatives. Cytotoxicity assays indicated no toxic effects on the tested cells. These findings enhance the understanding of Pouteria caimito, highlighting its nutritional potential and possible applications in food and health-related industries.

Aspirin in Cancer Therapy: Pharmacology and Nanotechnology Advances

Aspirin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has garnered significant attention for its anti-cancer potential. This review explores the pharmacological properties, chemical dynamics, and evolving therapeutic applications of aspirin, with an emphasis on its integration into advanced cancer therapies. Aspirin demonstrates broad-spectrum efficacy across diverse cancer types by modulating signaling pathways such as COX-dependent and COX-independent mechanisms, including Wnt, NF-κB, β-catenin/TCF, and IL-6/STAT3. Recent advancements highlight the role of nanotechnology in enhancing aspirin's targeted delivery, therapeutic effectiveness, and patient outcomes. Nanoparticle-based formulations, including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles, offer improved solubility, stability, and bioavailability, enabling controlled drug release and tumor-specific targeting. These innovations reduce systemic toxicity and enhance therapeutic effects, paving the way for aspirin's integration into personalized cancer treatments. Ongoing clinical studies reinforce its safety profile, underscoring aspirin's role in cancer pharmacotherapy. This review calls for continued research into aspirin's repurposing in combination therapies and novel delivery systems to maximize its therapeutic potential.

Anti-inflammatory effects of water-dispersible hesperetin on endotoxin-induced uveitis in rats involving the nuclear factor κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways

This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of water-dispersible hesperetin (WD-Hpt) in an endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) rat model. The rats were orally administered 10, 25, or 50 mg/kg WD-Hpt immediately after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection at the concentration of 200 μg. Clinical scores, cellular inflammation, the aqueous humor (ApH) protein concentration, as well as the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in AqH, and histopathological grades were assessed. Immunohistostaining and mRNA analyses measured expressions of TNF-α, COX-2, iNOS, activated nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, I kappa B (IκB)-α degradation, phosphorylated (p)-IκB kinase (IKK) α/β, β-catenin, and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β. Compared to LPS treated group (LPS txg), WD-Hpt treatment groups (WD-Hpt txg) resulted in the following results: 1) clinical scores improved [LPS txg; 3.90 ± 0.20, WD-Hpt txg; 2.40 ± 0.37 (P<0.05)], 2) the number of inflammatory cells in AqH decreased [LPS txg; 8.65 ± 1.41 × 105 cells/mL, WD-Hpt txg; 3.83 ± 1.20 × 105 cells/mL (P<0.05)], 3) AqH protein concentration reduced [LPS txg; 36.65 ± 2.71 mg/mL, WD-Hpt txg; 28.73 ± 2.36 mg/mL (P<0.05)], and 4) decreased levels of TNF-α [LPS txg; 69.55 ± 7.38 pg/mL, WD-Hpt txg; 35.18 ± 9.22 pg/mL (P<0.001)], iNOS [LPS txg; 153.37 ± 12.72 μM, WD-Hpt txg; 110.79 ± 13.27 μM (P<0.05)], and COX-2 [LPS txg; 1,080.56 ± 196.06 pg/mL, WD-Hpt txg; 477.80 ± 66.61 pg/mL (P<0.01)] in AqH were observed, and histopathological grades improved [LPS txg; 2.80 ± 0.40, WD-Hpt txg; 1.50 ± 0.50 (P<0.05)]. Immunostaining and mRNA analysis revealed that 50 mg/kg WD-Hpt effectively suppressed iNOS, COX-2, NF-κB p65, IκB-α degradation, p-IKKα/β, β-catenin, and GSK-3β expression. These findings suggested that WD-Hpt exerts anti-inflammatory effects by targeting the NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin pathways.

The pantothenic acid derivative dexpanthenol ameliorated doxorubicin-induced neurotoxicity via regulating AKT/CREB/BDNF and AKT/NRF2 signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Doxorubicin (Dox)-induced neurotoxicity is a well-documented side effect of chemotherapy. Dexpanthenol (Dex), an analog of vitamin B5, has shown protective properties. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms by which Dex mitigates Dox-induced neurotoxicity, particularly through the protein kinase B (AKT)/cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB)/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) signaling.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The experiment was conducted using four groups: control, Dex, Dox, and Dox + Dex, comprising a total of 32 female Wistar Albino rats. After two weeks of treatment, the rats were euthanized, and brain and cerebellum tissues were collected for analysis. Biochemical analysis was performed spectrophotometrically to assess oxidative stress parameters, while histological and immunostaining analyses focused on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoexpressions. Genetic analysis of AKT, CREB, BDNF, and NRF2 gene expressions was conducted using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Histopathological evaluation of the Dox group revealed hyperemia, microhemorrhage, neuronal damage, and neuronophagia. Additionally, an increase in caspase-3, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, NF-κB, and iNOS immunoexpressions were observed, along with elevated total oxidant status and oxidative stress index. A decrease in AKT, CREB, BDNF, and NRF2 gene expressions accompanied these changes. Dex treatment significantly reversed these pathological findings, effectively protecting the brain from Dox-induced neuronal damage.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Dex may provide neuroprotection in female rats with Dox-induced neurotoxicity by activating the CREB/BDNF pathway and reducing oxidative stress through AKT-mediated NRF2 synthesis. Further detailed studies exploring additional pathways are required to incorporate Dex into cancer treatment protocols and minimize side effects.

Effects of plant active substances in rheumatoid arthritis-a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

Plant active substances are extensively utilized in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Despite numerous experimental and clinical studies on plant active substances their efficacy remains largely unsubstantiated. The widespread use of these extracts as therapeutic measures for RA is problematic due to the lack of compelling evidence.

Objective

Our research aims to assess the impact of plant active substances on RA by conducting a network meta-analysis.

Methods

We systematically searched four electronic databases-PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science-from their inception to August 2024. The main focus was on assessing primary outcomes, including the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), inflammatory markers, Swollen Joint Count (SJC), Tender Joint Count (TJC), and Disease Activity Score on 28 joints (DAS28). We performed data analysis using StataMP 15.1 software and ranked the therapeutic effects based on the Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking Curve (SUCRA) probability values.

Results

Based on screening procedures, 18 eligible studies were incorporated into the analysis. These studies encompassed a total of 1,674 RA patients and investigated 10 different plant active substance therapies. Specifically, 10 studies included VAS indicators, 17 studies included inflammatory marker indicators, 14 studies included DAS28 indicators, 13 studies included SJC indicators, and 13 studies included TJC indicators. Based on SUCRA values, quercetin appeared to be the most effective treatment for decreasing serum VAS levels (67.3%). Furthermore, curcumin emerged as the most promising option for reducing inflammatory marker levels (72.3%), SJC (75.6%), and TJC (76.2%). Lastly, with respect to DAS28, resveratrol emerged as the optimal choice (74.3%).

Conclusion

According to the network meta-analysis (NMA), curcumin exhibited superior efficacy compared to placebo in decreasing SJC and TJC. Additionally, curcumin demonstrated greater effectiveness in reducing inflammatory markers. Quercetin was more effective in reducing VAS, and resveratrol was more effective in reducing DAS28. Patients with RA may benefit from these findings. Insightful information from this study is helpful for RA patients to consider using plant active substance therapies. For their efficacy and safety to be confirmed, more proof is needed.

Anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin in an accelerated senescence model of Wistar rat: an in vivo and in-silico study

Curcumin, a biphenolic substance derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa), offers a number of health-beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular protection, anti-cancerous, and anti-angiogenic. By interacting with the PPARγ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ), curcumin inhibits NF-κB. These biological outcomes seem to be the outcome of NF-κB inhibition mediated by curcumin. The current study explores the in vivo impact of curcumin on several inflammatory parameters during aging in Wistar rats. An in-silico docking simulation study using Maestro and Desmond, Schrödinger, was carried out to further validate the experimental findings. According to our observation, rats given curcumin supplementation had a considerably (p ≤ 0.05) reduced level of inflammation. By generating numerous polar and hydrophobic interactions and exhibiting little conformational deviation throughout the simulation, in silico investigations showed that the proposed ligand curcumin had a high affinity for the enzyme COX-2. During simulation, protein-ligand complexes of curcumin with the other targets viz. 5-LOX, TNF-α and IL-6 also demonstrated improved binding and minimal fluctuation. The COX-2 and 5-LOX enzymes and the cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) implicated in inflammation may have been inhibited by curcumin, highlighting its function as a multi-target inhibitor. Our study provides convincing support for the idea that eating a diet high in curcumin may help to reduce inflammation and help to explain some of its health-beneficial effects.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Enhancing the effects of curcumin on oxidative stress injury in brain vascular endothelial cells using lactoferrin peptide nano-micelles: antioxidant activity and mechanism

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is widely known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its mechanism of action in mitigating oxidative stress injury in brain vascular endothelial cells remains unclear. Due to the poor bioavailability of curcumin, it is challenging to achieve effective concentrations at the target sites. Nano-micelles are known for their ability to improve the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of hydrophobic compounds like curcumin. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of free curcumin and curcumin embedded in nano-micelles (M(Cur)) on oxidative stress-induced injury in bEnd.3 cells.

RESULTS

At a protective concentration of 10 μg mL-1, micellar curcumin was better able to recover the morphology of bEnd.3 cells under oxidative stress while increasing cell viability, restoring mitochondrial membrane electrical potential, and effectively inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation with a positive cell rate of 2.21%. These results indicate that curcumin significantly improves H2O2-induced oxidative stress damage in endothelial cells by maintaining the cellular antioxidant balance.

CONCLUSION

This study adds to knowledge regarding the role of nano-micelles in curcumin intervention for endothelial cell oxidative damage and provides insights for the development of curcumin-based dietary supplements. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

A Panoramic Review on the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis through Herbalism

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The conventional treatment options for arthritis often come with limitations and potential side effects, leading to increased interest in herbal plants as alternative therapies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the use of herbal plants in arthritis treatment, focusing on their traditional remedies, active components, mechanisms of action, and pharmaceutical approaches for enhancing their delivery. Various herbal plants, including turmeric, ginger, Boswellia, and willow bark, have shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them valuable options for managing arthritis symptoms. The active components of these herbal plants, such as curcumin, gingerols, and boswellic acids, contribute to their therapeutic effects. To enhance the delivery of herbal medicines, pharmaceutical approaches like nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, microneedles, and inhalation systems have been explored. These approaches aim to improve bioavailability, targeted delivery, and controlled release of herbal compounds. Safety considerations, including potential interactions with medications and the risk of allergic reactions, are also discussed. Future perspectives for this field involve conducting well-designed clinical studies, enhancing standardization and quality control measures, exploring novel drug delivery systems, and fostering collaborations between traditional medicine practitioners and healthcare professionals. Continued research and development in these areas will help unlock the full potential of herbal plants in arthritis treatment, offering personalized and effective care for affected individuals.

Trans-cinnamic acid alleviates high-fat diet-induced renal injury via JNK/ERK/P38 MAPK pathway

Obesity-related chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant risk to individuals' health and wellbeing, but the pathological mechanisms and treatment strategies are currently limited. Trans-cinnamic acid (CA) is a key active monomer found in cinnamon bark and is known for its diverse pharmacological activities. However, its effect on obesity-related renal injury remains unknown. In the current study, the in vitro and in vivo experiments were combined to investigate the beneficial effect of CA on renal injury induced by HFD or PA. We found that CA significantly reduced the obesity of zebrafish body and the accumulation of fat in kidney tissues. The histopathological changes and dysfunction induced by HFD were effectively mitigated by CA administration, as evidenced by the detection of Hematoxylin-Eosin straining, NAG activity, creatinine level, and expression of functional-related genes, respectively. Additionally, the in vitro and in vivo findings demonstrated that CA dramatically reduced the oxidative stress, inflammatory, and apoptosis in HFD-induced kidney tissues or PA-treated HEK293T and HK-2 cells. Finally, the results regarding ERK, JNK, and P38 proteins phosphorylation confirmed that CA may alleviate HFD-induced renal injury by inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and P38 MAPK proteins. This theory was further supported by the results of co-treatment with anisomycin (a JNK activator) or lipopolysaccharide and CA in HEK293T cells. This study proves that CA alleviates the obesity-related CKD probably through inhibition of MAPK signaling pathway.

Hydroethanolic Extract of Polygonum aviculare L. Mediates the Anti-Inflammatory Activity in RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophages Through Induction of Heme Oxygenase-1 and Inhibition of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase

Polygonum aviculare L. (PAL), commonly known as knotgrass, has been utilized as a traditional folk medicine across Asian, African, Latin American and Middle Eastern countries to treat various inflammatory diseases, including arthritis and airway inflammation. Numerous medicinal herbs exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects that are mediated through the activation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms linking the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects remain poorly understood. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an antioxidant enzyme that catalyzes heme degradation, ultimately leading to the production of carbon monoxide (CO). Elevated levels of CO have been correlated with the decreased level of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In this study, we examined whether HO-1 plays a key role in the relationship between the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of PAL. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities of PAL in an in vitro system were evaluated by determining NF-κB activity, antioxidant response element (ARE) activity, pro-inflammatory cytokine and protein levels, as well as antioxidant protein levels. To examine whether HO-1 inhibition interfered with the anti-inflammatory effect of PAL, we measured nitrite, reactive oxygen species, iNOS, and HO-1 levels in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages pre-treated with Tin protoporphyrin (SnPP, an HO-1 inhibitor). Our results demonstrated that PAL increased ARE activity and the Nrf2-regulated HO-1 level, exerting antioxidative activities in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Additionally, PAL reduced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and iNOS protein levels by inactivating NF-κB in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Further investigation using the HO-1 inhibitor revealed that HO-1 inhibition promoted iNOS expression, subsequently elevating nitric oxide (NO) generation in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages treated with PAL compared to those in the macrophages without the HO-1 inhibitor. Overall, our findings suggest that HO-1 induction by PAL may exert anti-inflammatory effects through the reduction of the iNOS protein level. Hence, this study paves the way for further investigation to understand molecular mechanisms underlying the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of medicinal herbs.

Difenoconazole Induced Damage of Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells via ER Stress and Inflammatory Response

Difenoconazole (DIF) is a fungicide used to control various fungi. It is absorbed on the surface of different plants and contributes significantly to increased crop production. However, DIF is reported to exhibit toxicity to fungi and to aquatic plants, fish, and mammals, including humans, causing adverse effects. However, research on the impact of DIF on the mammary epithelial cells of herbivorous bovines is limited. DIF-induced damage and accumulation in the mammary glands can have direct and indirect effects on humans. Therefore, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of DIF toxicity in MAC-T cells. The current study revealed that DIF reduces cell viability and proliferation while triggering apoptotic cell death through the upregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins, including cleaved caspase 3 and Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX), and the downregulation of leukemia type 2 (BCL-2). DIF also induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by increasing the expression of genes or proteins of Bip/GRP78, protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductase 1 Alpha (ERO1-Lα). We demonstrated that DIF induces mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in MAC-T cells by activating ER stress pathways. This cellular damage resulted in a significant increase in the expression of inflammatory response genes and proteins, including cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFB3), CCAAT enhancer binding protein delta (CEBPD), and iNOS, in DIF-treated groups. In addition, spheroid formation by MAC-T cells was suppressed by DIF treatment. Our findings suggest that DIF exposure in dairy cows may harm mammary gland function and health and may indirectly affect human consumption of milk.

EF24, a Curcumin Analog, Reverses Interleukin-18-Induced miR-30a or miR-342-Dependent TRAF3IP2 Expression, RECK Suppression, and the Proinflammatory Phenotype of Human Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from the widely used spice Curcuma longa, has shown anti-atherosclerotic effects in animal models and cultured vascular cells. Inflammation is a major contributor to atherosclerosis development and progression. We previously reported that the induction of the proinflammatory molecule TRAF3IP2 (TRAF3 Interacting Protein 2) or inhibition of the matrix metallopeptidase (MMP) regulator RECK (REversion Inducing Cysteine Rich Protein with Kazal Motifs) contributes to pro-oxidant, proinflammatory, pro-mitogenic and pro-migratory effects in response to external stimuli in vascular smooth muscle cells. Here we hypothesized that EF24, a curcumin analog with a better bioavailability and bioactivity profile, reverses interleukin (IL)-18-induced TRAF3IP2 induction, RECK suppression and the proinflammatory phenotype of primary human aortic smooth muscle cells (ASMC). The exposure of ASMC to functionally active recombinant human IL-18 (10 ng/mL) upregulated TRAF3IP2 mRNA and protein expression, but markedly suppressed RECK in a time-dependent manner. Further investigations revealed that IL-18 inhibited both miR-30a and miR-342 in a p38 MAPK- and JNK-dependent manner, and while miR-30a mimic blunted IL-18-induced TRAF3IP2 expression, miR-342 mimic restored RECK expression. Further, IL-18 induced ASMC migration, proliferation and proinflammatory phenotype switching, and these effects were attenuated by TRAF3IP2 silencing, and the forced expression of RECK or EF24. Together, these results suggest that the curcumin analog EF24, either alone or as an adjunctive therapy, has the potential to delay the development and progression of atherosclerosis and other vascular inflammatory and proliferative diseases by differentially regulating TRAF3IP2 and RECK expression in ASMC.

Oleic acid attenuates asthma pathogenesis via Th1/Th2 immune cell modulation, TLR3/4-NF-κB-related inflammation suppression, and intrinsic apoptotic pathway induction

WHO reported that asthma was responsible for 455,000 deaths in 2019 and asthma patients was evaluated 262 million in May 2023. The incidence is expected to increase as the average life expectancy increases, highlighting asthma as a significant health challenge in an aging society. The etiology of asthma is linked to an imbalance of Th1 and Th2 cells, respiratory inflammation, and pulmonary cell proliferation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the anti-asthmatic effect and potential mechanism of oleic acid. The anti-inflammatory effect of oleic acid was evaluated in an LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cell model, and immune modulation and the anti-apoptotic effect were measured in an ovalbumin-induced BALB/c mouse model. A variety of analytical procedures, such as MTT, qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, gene transfection, immunohistochemistry, and several staining methods (Diff Quik, H&E, PAS), were used to evaluate the effectiveness and mechanisms of these methods. The results from in vitro experiments showed that oleic acid could reduce the levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), and molecular docking studies suggested that oleic acid could interact with TLR3 and TLR4 proteins to form ligand-protein complexes, showing good binding affinity. Additionally, oleic acid attenuated the expression of MAPK pathway components (JNK, p38 MAPK) and NF-κB pathway constituents (IκB, NF-κB, COX-2, PGE2). In vivo results indicated that oleic acid reduced the levels of inflammatory cells (WBCs and eosinophils) and IgE activity, reduced the expression of the Th2 cell transcription factor GATA-3, and decreased the levels of Th2/Th17-related cytokines (IL-4, TNF-α, and IL-6). Oleic acid also alleviated OVA-induced pathological changes in the lung, such as epithelial cell proliferation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mucus hypersecretion. OVA restored apoptosis in lung epithelial cells by modulating the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax. In summary, oleic acid has potential as a novel candidate for asthma treatment through its ability to regulate immune cells, exert anti-inflammatory effects, and promote apoptosis, thereby ameliorating asthma manifestations.

Biomacromolecules as Immunomodulators: Utilizing Nature’s Tools for Immune Regulation

Although there are numerous available immunomodulators, those of natural origin would be preferable based on their safety profile and effectiveness. The research and clinical interest in immunomodulators have increased in the last decades, especially in the immunomodulatory properties of plant-based therapies. Innovative technologies and extensive study on immunomodulatory natural products, botanicals, extracts, and active moieties with immunomodulatory potential could provide us with valuable entities to develop as novel immunomodulatory medicines to enhance current chemotherapies. This review focuses on plant-based immunomodulatory drugs that are currently in clinical studies. However, further studies in this area are of utmost importance to obtain complete information about the positive effects of medicinal plants and their chemical components and molecules as an alternative to combatting various diseases and/or prevention.

Investigation of oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic effects of favipiravir use alone and combined with vitamin C on brain tissue of elderly rats

Favipiravir is a nucleoside analogue antiviral drug and inhibits the replication of many RNA viruses, especially influenza viruses. Favipiravir has also been used to treat patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 disease. However, various side effects, including neurological side effects, have been reported related to the use of favipiravir. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the possible effects of favipiravir alone or in combination with vitamin C on aged rats' brain tissue and the possible mechanisms of these effects. A total of 30 rats used in the study were randomly divided into 5 equal groups and the first group was kept as the control group. High-dose (100 mg/kg) or low-dose (20 mg/kg) favipiravir was administered alone or in combination with vitamin C (150 mg/kg) to other groups. Administration of both high and low doses of favipiravir significantly increased TBARS levels in brain tissue of aged rats. Similarly, both high and low doses of favipiravir led to significant increases in Bcl-2 and caspase-3 relative mRNA expression. However, only low dose favipiravir caused a significant increase in iNOS and IL-1β relative mRNA expression levels. Similar results were also observed in histopathological examinations. However, co-administration of vitamin C with favipiravir attenuated some of the adverse effects of favipiravir. In conclusion, in this study, it was shown that the use of favipiravir caused some adverse effects through oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic processes in the brain tissue of aged rats, and the potential of vitamin C to alleviate these effects.

Potential of Coffee Cherry Pulp Extract against Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Air Pollution Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress for Topical Applications

Airborne particulate matter (PM) contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as primary toxic components, causing oxidative damage and being associated with various inflammatory skin pathologies such as premature aging, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Coffee cherry pulp (CCS) extract, rich in chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and theophylline, has demonstrated strong antioxidant properties. However, its specific anti-inflammatory effects and ability to protect macrophages against PAH-induced inflammation remain unexplored. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory properties of CCS extract on RAW 264.7 macrophage cells exposed to atmospheric PAHs, compared to chlorogenic acid (CGA), caffeine (CAF), and theophylline (THP) standards. The CCS extract was assessed for its impact on the production of nitric oxide (NO) and expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Results showed that CCS extract exhibited significant antioxidant activities and effectively inhibited protease and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities. The PAH induced the increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species, NO, TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, and COX-2, which were markedly suppressed by CCS extract in a dose-dependent manner, comparable to the effects of chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and theophylline. In conclusion, CCS extract inhibits PAH-induced inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in RAW 264.7 cells. This effect is likely due to the synergistic effects of its bioactive compounds. Chlorogenic acid showed strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, while caffeine and theophylline enhanced anti-inflammatory activity. CCS extract did not irritate the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane. Therefore, CCS extract shows its potential as a promising cosmeceutical ingredient for safely alleviating inflammatory skin diseases caused by air pollution.

Psoralen protects neurons and alleviates neuroinflammation by regulating microglial M1/M2 polarization via inhibition of the Fyn-PKCδ pathway

Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is closely associated with many neurodegenerative diseases. Psoralen has potential for the treatment of many diseases, however, the anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects of psoralen have been unclear. This study investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects of psoralen and its regulation of microglial M1/M2 polarization. The LPS-induced mice model was used to test anti-neuroinflammatory effects, regulatory effects on microglia polarization, and neuroprotective effects of psoralen in vivo. The LPS-induced BV2 model was used to test the anti-neuroinflammatory effects and the regulatory effects and mechanisms on microglial M1/M2 polarization of psoralen in vitro. PC12 cell model induced by conditioned medium of BV2 cells was used to validate the protective effects of psoralen against neuroinflammation-induced neuronal damage. These results showed that psoralen inhibited the expression of iNOS, CD86, and TNF-α, and increased the expression of Arg-1, CD206, and IL-10. These results indicated that psoralen inhibited the M1 microglial phenotype and promoted the M2 microglial phenotype. Further studies showed that psoralen inhibited the phosphorylation of Fyn and PKCδ, thereby inhibiting activation of the MAPKs and NF-κB pathways and suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in microglia. Furthermore, psoralen reduced oxidative stress, neuronal damage, and apoptosis via inhibition of neuroinflammation. For the first time, this study showed that psoralen protected neurons and alleviated neuroinflammation by regulating microglial M1/M2 polarization, which may be mediated by inhibition of the Fyn-PKCδ pathway. Thus, psoralen may be a potential agent in the treatment of neuroinflammation-related diseases.

Polysaccharides from Balanophora harlandii Hook: Isolation, characterization, and anti-inflammation activities

Balanophora harlandii Hook (B. harlandii), a folk medicine, has been traditionally employed to treat traumatic bleeding, gastroenteritis, icteric hepatitis, hemorrhoids, and other conditions. In this work, polysaccharides with anti-inflammatory effects were extracted from B. harlandii and purified. The extraction conditions were optimized, and the properties of one purified neutral fraction, denoted as BHPs-W-S3, were analyzed. BHPs-W-S3 has a molecular weight of 14.1 kDa, and its three main monosaccharides are glucose, galactose, and xylose, with a molar ratio of 6.4:1.7:1.1. Its main chain consists of →6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →4,6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →6)-β-D-Galp-(1→, →3,6)-β-D-Galp-(1→, and it has branch chains at the O-4 and/or O-3 positions. In addition, in vitro experiments showed that the polysaccharides from B. harlandi can decrease the phosphorylation level of p65 and IκBα in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells to reduce the expression of the pro-inflammatory genes such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β.

The role of bDMARDs in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory-related comorbidities in Psoriatic Arthritis

INTRODUCTION

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an immune-inflammatory disease that affects both joints and entheses, and with diverse extra-articular manifestations (psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and uveitis). A wide range of comorbid conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, obesity, metabolic syndrome (MetS), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), mental health disorders (depression/anxiety), and osteoporosis are highly prevalent in course of PsA.Biological DMARDs (bDMARD), including TNF-inhibitors (TNFi), Interleukin (IL-17i) and IL-23i represent the cornerstone of the management of active disease. The use of these therapies obviously requires considering comorbidities presence, safety aspects and contraindications.

AREAS COVERED

The aim of this review is to describe the inflammatory mechanisms behind PsA comorbidities, and the role of bDMARDs in the prevention and treatment of these conditions in course of PsA.

EXPERT OPINION

Tailoring therapeutic strategies to the individual characteristics of each PsA patient can be an effective approach to manage comorbidities, maximizing the efficacy of bDMARDs, and reducing the incidence of AEs. Identifying targets within disease pathways can guide research into therapeutics that address both PsA and comorbidities simultaneously, but more studies are advocated for clarifying the potential prevention and management of bDMARDs used for PsA.

Research progress of SIRTs activator resveratrol and its derivatives in autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases (AID) have emerged as prominent contributors to disability and mortality worldwide, characterized by intricate pathogenic mechanisms involving genetic, environmental, and autoimmune factors. In response to this challenge, a growing body of research in recent years has delved into genetic modifications, yielding valuable insights into AID prevention and treatment. Sirtuins (SIRTs) constitute a class of NAD-dependent histone deacetylases that orchestrate deacetylation processes, wielding significant regulatory influence over cellular metabolism, oxidative stress, immune response, apoptosis, and aging through epigenetic modifications. Resveratrol, the pioneering activator of the SIRTs family, and its derivatives have captured global scholarly interest. In the context of AID, these compounds hold promise for therapeutic intervention by modulating the SIRTs pathway, impacting immune cell functionality, suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators, and mitigating tissue damage. This review endeavors to explore the potential of resveratrol and its derivatives in AID treatment, elucidating their mechanisms of action and providing a comprehensive analysis of current research advancements and obstacles. Through a thorough examination of existing literature, our objective is to advocate for the utilization of resveratrol and its derivatives in AID treatment while offering crucial insights for the formulation of innovative therapeutic approaches.

A comparative evaluation of the kefir yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus A4 and sulfasalazine in ulcerative colitis: anti-inflammatory impact and gut microbiota modulation

Although only Saccharomyces boulardii has been studied for ulcerative colitis (UC), probiotic yeasts have immense therapeutic potential. Herein, we evaluated the kefir yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus A4 (Km A4) and its anti-inflammatory effect with sulfasalazine in BALB/c mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Oral administration continued for 7 days after the mice were randomly divided into seven groups: control (CON, normal mice administered with saline), DSS-induced colitis mice administered saline (DSS), and DSS-induced colitis mice administered sulfasalazine only (S), Km A4 only (A4), Km A4 plus sulfasalazine (A4 + S), S. boulardii ATCC MYA-796 (Sb MYA-796) only (Sb), and Sb MYA-796 plus sulfasalazine (Sb + S). The β-glucan content of Km A4 was significantly higher than that of Sb MYA-796 (P < 0.05). Body weight gain (BWG) significantly correlated with colon length, cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) levels, and Bacteroides abundance (P < 0.05). In colitis-induced mice, the A4 + S group had the lowest histological score (6.00) compared to the DSS group (12.67), indicating the anti-inflammatory effects of this combination. The A4 + S group showed significantly downregulated expression of interleukin (Il)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (Tnf-α), and Cox-2 and upregulated expression of Il-10 and occludin (Ocln) compared to the DSS group. Mice treated with A4 + S had enhanced Bacteroides abundance in their gut microbiota compared with the DSS group (P < 0.05). Bacteroides were significantly correlated with all colitis biomarkers (BWG, colon length, Il-6, Tnf-α, Il-10, Cox-2, and Ocln; P < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory effects of Km A4 could be attributed to high β-glucan content and gut microbiota modulation. Thus, treatment with Km A4 and sulfasalazine could alleviate UC.

Cinnamon nanoemulsion mitigates acetamiprid-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats: biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular docking analysis

Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a ‎week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels.Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

Design, synthesis and molecular modeling of novel D-ring substituted steroidal 4,5-dihydropyrazole thiazolinone derivatives as anti-inflammatory agents by inhibition of COX-2/iNOS production and down-regulation of NF-κB/MAPKs in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage cells

It has been reported that 4,5-dihydropyrazole and thiazole derivatives have many biological functions, especially in the aspect of anti-inflammation. According to the strategy of pharmacophore combination, we introduced thiazolinone and dihydropyrazole moiety into steroid skeleton to design and synthesize a novel series of D-ring substituted steroidal 4,5-dihydropyrazole thiazolinone derivatives, and assessed their in vitro anti-inflammatory profiles against Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The anti-inflammatory activities assay demonstrated that compound 12e was considered as the most effective anti-inflammatory drug, which suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), it also dose-dependently inhibited the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Furthermore, the results of the Western blot analysis showed a correlation between the inhibition of the Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways and the suppressive effects of compound 12e on pro-inflammatory cytokines. Molecular docking studies of compound 12e into the COX-2 protein receptor (PDB ID: 5IKQ) active site was performed to rationalize their COX-2 inhibitory potency. The results were found to be in line with the biological findings as they exerted more favorable interactions compared to that of dexamethasone (DXM), explaining their remarkable COX-2 inhibitory activity. The findings revealed that these candidates could be identified as potent anti-inflammatory agents, compound 12e could be a promising drug for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Genome mining of sulfonated lanthipeptides reveals unique cyclic peptide sulfotransferases

Although sulfonation plays crucial roles in various biological processes and is frequently utilized in medicinal chemistry to improve water solubility and chemical diversity of drug leads, it is rare and underexplored in ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). Biosynthesis of RiPPs typically entails modification of hydrophilic residues, which substantially increases their chemical stability and bioactivity, albeit at the expense of reducing water solubility. To explore sulfonated RiPPs that may have improved solubility, we conducted co-occurrence analysis of RiPP class-defining enzymes and sulfotransferase (ST), and discovered two distinctive biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding both lanthipeptide synthetase (LanM) and ST. Upon expressing these BGCs, we characterized the structures of novel sulfonated lanthipeptides and determined the catalytic details of LanM and ST. We demonstrate that SslST-catalyzed sulfonation is leader-independent but relies on the presence of A ring formed by LanM. Both LanM and ST are promiscuous towards residues in the A ring, but ST displays strict regioselectivity toward Tyr5. The recognition of cyclic peptide by ST was further discussed. Bioactivity evaluation underscores the significance of the ST-catalyzed sulfonation. This study sets up the starting point to engineering the novel lanthipeptide STs as biocatalysts for hydrophobic lanthipeptides improvement.

Mechanistic insights into anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of plant secondary metabolites and their therapeutic potential for rheumatoid arthritis

The anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities of plant secondary metabolites are due to their diverse mechanisms of action against multifarious molecular targets such as modulation of the complex immune system associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This review discussed and critically analyzed the potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of several phytochemicals and their underlying mechanisms in association with RA in experimental studies, including preliminary clinical studies of some of them. A wide range of phytochemicals including phenols, flavonoids, chalcones, xanthones, terpenoids, alkaloids, and glycosides have shown significant immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities in experimental RA models and a few have undergone clinical trials for their efficacy and safety in reducing RA symptoms and improve patient outcomes. These phytochemicals have potential as safer alternatives to the existing drugs in the management of RA, which possess a wide range of serious side effects. Sufficient preclinical studies on safety and efficacy of these phytochemicals must be performed prior to proper clinical studies. Further studies are needed to address the barriers that have so far limited their human use before the therapeutic potential of these plant-based chemicals as anti-arthritic agents in the treatment of RA is fully realized.

Design, synthesis and molecular docking of novel D-ring substituted steroidal 4,5-dihydropyrazole thiazole derivatives that act as iNOS/COX-2 inhibitors with potent anti-inflammatory activity against LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage cells

Inflammation, an important biological protective response to tissue damage or microbial invasion, is considered to be an alarming signal for the progress of varied biological complications. Based on the previous reports in the literature that proved the noticeable efficacy of pyrazole and thiazole scaffold as well as nitrogen heterocyclic based compounds against acute and chronic inflammatory disease, a new set of novel D-ring substituted steroidal 4,5-dihydropyrazole thiazole derivatives were synthesized and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activities in vitro. Preliminary structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis was conducted by their inhibitory activities against nitric oxide (NO) release in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells, and the optimal compound 12b [3β-hydroxy-pregn-5-en-17β-yl-5'- (o- chlorophenyl)- 1'-(4''- phenyl -[1'', 3'']- thiazol-2''- yl) - 4',5'-dihydro - 1'H-pyrazol - 3'- yl] exhibited more potent anti-inflammatory activity than the positive control treatment methylprednisolone (MPS), with an IC50 value of 2.59 μM on NO production and low cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 cells. In further mechanism study, our results showed that compound 12b significantly suppressed the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and inhibited the expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) through blocking NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of IκBα. Compound 12b also attenuated LPS-induced activation of c-Jun amino-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 phosphorylation in RAW 264.7 cells. Molecular docking study revealed the strong binding affinity of compound 12b to the active site of the COX-2 proteins, which confirmed that compound 12b acted as an anti-inflammatory mediator. These results indicate that steroidal derivatives bearing 4,5-dihydropyrazole thiazole structure might be considered for further research and scaffold optimization in designing anti-inflammatory drugs and compound 12b might be a promising therapeutic anti-inflammatory drug candidate.

Divergent Biosynthesis of Bridged Polycyclic Sesquiterpenoids by a Minimal Fungal Biosynthetic Gene Cluster

The bridged polycyclic sesquiterpenoids derived from sativene, isosativene, and longifolene have unique structures, and many chemical synthesis approaches with at least 10 steps have been reported. However, their biosynthetic pathway remains undescribed. A minimal biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC), named bip, encoding a sesquiterpene cyclase (BipA) and a cytochrome P450 (BipB) is characterized to produce such complex sesquiterpenoids with multiple carbon skeletons based on enzymatic assays, heterologous expression, and precursor experiments. BipA is demonstrated as a versatile cyclase with (-)-sativene as the dominant product and (-)-isosativene and (-)-longifolene as minor ones. BipB is capable of hydroxylating different enantiomeric sesquiterpenes, such as (-)-longifolene and (+)-longifolene, at C-15 and C-14 in turn. The C-15- or both C-15- and C-14-hydroxylated products are then further oxidized by unclustered oxidases, resulting in a structurally diverse array of sesquiterpenoids. Bioinformatic analysis reveals the BipB homologues as a discrete clade of fungal sesquiterpene P450s. These findings elucidate the concise and divergent biosynthesis of such intricate bridged polycyclic sesquiterpenoids, offer valuable biocatalysts for biotransformation, and highlight the distinct biosynthetic strategy employed by nature compared to chemical synthesis.

Cirsimaritin Alleviates Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Acute Colitis in Experimental Animals: A Therapeutic Approach for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease that affects the entire digestive tract. IBD can be classified as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. The key symptoms of IBD include the emergence of abscesses or pustules, pronounced abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, fistulas, and intestinal narrowing, all of which can greatly affect a patient's daily well-being. Several factors, including bacterial infections, immune response irregularities, and changes in the intestinal milieu, can contribute to the onset of IBD. The aim of this study was investigating the role of cirsimaritin in reducing the severity of colitis in animal model. To induce colitis in laboratory Swiss albino mice, a 4% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) concoction was provided in their hydration source for a duration of six days. Before the onset of colitis, mice were treated with cirsimaritin (10 mg/kg) once daily to evaluate its potential treatment effects against DSS-induced inflammation. The results showed that 10 mg/kg of cirsimaritin decreased colitis severity (P<0.05). Moreover, cirsimaritin successfully reversed the detrimental effects induced by DSS, including weight reduction, colon truncation, tissue-related damage, increased levels of inflammatory cells in the affected region, and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Our findings suggest that cirsimaritin can effectively alleviate acute colitis triggered by DSS.

Anti-inflammatory effects of immature Citrus unshiu fruit extracts via suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signal pathways in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage cells

This study examined the anti-inflammatory effects of 70% ethanol crude extract of immature Citrus unshiu fruits (ICE) and its solvent fractions in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, we analyzed the active compounds related to suppression of inflammation. It was found that the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction showed the highest level of inhibition of NO production, and this inhibitory activity was concentration-dependent. Moreover, the EtOAc fraction not only inhibited TNF-α and IL-6 production but also inhibited iNOS and COX-2 protein expression. Furthermore, inhibition of NF-κB activity and MAPK phosphorylation was also observed. In addition, β-sitosterol, campesterol and isoferulic acid were identified as major anti-inflammatory components in the EtOAc fraction. These results suggested that the EtOAc fraction of immature C. unshiu fruit extract exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, and that this fruit could be used as a natural anti-inflammatory material.

Oral delivery of aescin-loaded gelatin nanoparticles ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

AIM

The liver plays a crucial role in biotransformation but it is susceptible to chemical-induced damage, known as hepatotoxicity. Traditional therapies for protecting the liver face significant challenges, including poor bioavailability, off-target effects, adverse reactions, drug breakdown, and inadequate uptake. These issues emphasize the need for precise, targeted therapeutic approaches against hepatotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The objective of our research was to develop a customized, biocompatible, and biodegradable nanodrug delivery system for hepatoprotection. We chose collagen hydrolyzed protein, or gelatin, as the base material and utilized solvent evaporation and nanoprecipitation methods to create nanoparticles with size ranging from 130 to 155 nm. The resulting nanoparticles exhibited a spherical and smooth surface, as confirmed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

KEY FINDINGS

Bioactive aescin (AES), into these gelatin nanoparticles (AES-loaded gel NPs), we tested these nanoparticles using a hepatotoxicity model. The results were indicating a significant reduction in the levels of key biomolecules, including NF-κB, iNOS, BAX, and COX-2 and decreased serum levels of enzymes ALT and AST. This reduction correlated with a notable alleviation in the severity of hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, the treatment with AES-loaded gel NPs resulted in the downregulation of several inflammatory and liver-specific biomarkers, including nitrite, MPO, TNF-α, and IL-6.

SIGNIFICANCE

In summary, our study demonstrates that the AES-loaded gel NPs were markedly more effective in mitigating experimental hepatotoxicity when compared to the free aescin. The nanoparticles exhibited a propensity for suppressing liver damage, showcasing the potential of this targeted therapeutic approach for safeguarding the liver from harmful chemical insults.

Chromone-based small molecules for multistep shutdown of arachidonate pathway: Simultaneous inhibition of COX-2, 15-LOX and mPGES-1 enzymes

As a new approach to the management of inflammatory disorders, a series of chromone-based derivatives containing a (carbamate)hydrazone moiety was designed and synthesized. The compounds were assessed for their ability to inhibit COX-1/2, 15-LOX, and mPGES-1, as a combination that should effectively impede the arachidonate pathway. Results revealed that the benzylcarbazates (2a-c) demonstrated two-digit nanomolar COX-2 inhibitory activities with reasonable selectivity indices. They also showed appreciable 15-LOX inhibition, in comparison to quercetin. Further testing of these compounds for mPGES-1 inhibition displayed promising activities. Intriguingly, compounds 2a-c were capable of suppressing edema in the formalin-induced rat paw edema assay. They exhibited an acceptable gastrointestinal safety profile regarding ulcerogenic liabilities in gross and histopathological examinations. Additionally, upon treatment with the test compounds, the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was elevated, whereas that of TNF-α, iNOS, IL-1β, and COX-2 were downregulated in LPS-challenged RAW264.7 macrophages. Docking experiments into the three enzymes showed interesting binding profiles and affinities, further substantiating their biological activities. Their in silico physicochemical and pharmacokinetic parameters were advantageous.

Anti-Herpes Simplex Virus and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Melittin Peptides Derived from Apis mellifera and Apis florea Venom

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is known to cause cold sores and various diseases in humans. Importantly, HSV infection can develop latent and recurrent infections, and it is also known to cause inflammation. These infections are difficult to control, and effective treatment of the disease remains a challenge. Thus, the search for new antiviral and anti-inflammatory agents is a necessity. Melittin is a major peptide that is present in the venom of the honeybee. It possesses a number of pharmacological properties. In this study, the effects of the melittin peptides from A. mellifera (MEL-AM) and A. florea (MEL-AF) against HSV-1 and HSV-2 were evaluated at different stages during the viral multiplication cycle in an attempt to define the mode of antiviral action using plaque reduction and virucidal assays. The results revealed a new finding that melittin at 5 µg/mL demonstrated the highest inhibitory effect on HSV through the direct inactivation of viral particles, and MEL-AF displayed a greater virucidal activity. Moreover, melittin was also observed to interfere with the process of HSV attachment to the host cells. MEL-AM exhibited anti-HSV-1 and anti-HSV-2 effects with EC50 values of 4.90 ± 0.15 and 4.39 ± 0.20 µg/mL, while MEL-AF demonstrated EC50 values of 4.47 ± 0.21 and 3.95 ± 0.61 µg/mL against HSV-1 and HSV-2, respectively. However, non-cytotoxic concentrations of both types of melittin produced only slight degrees of HSV-1 and HSV-2 inhibition after viral attachment, but melittin at 5 µg/mL was able to reduce the plaque size of HSV-2 when compared to the untreated group. In addition, MEL-AM and MEL-AF also exhibited anti-inflammatory activity via the inhibition of nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and they were also found to down-regulate the expressions of the iNOS, COX-2 and IL-6 genes. The highest inhibition of IL-6 mRNA expression was found after treatment with 10 µg/mL of MEL-AM and MEL-AF. Therefore, melittin peptides have displayed strong potential to be used as an alternative treatment for HSV infection and inflammatory diseases in the future.

Biocompatibility and osteogenic potential of choline phosphate chitosan-coated biodegradable Zn1Mg

Zinc alloys have demonstrated considerable potentials as implant materials for biodegradable vascular and orthopedic applications. However, the high initial release of Zn2+ can trigger intense immune responses that impede tissue healing. To address this challenge and enhance the osteogenic capacity of zinc alloys, the surface of Zn1Mg was subjected to CO2 plasma modification (Zn1Mg-PP) followed by grafting with choline phosphate chitosan (Zn1Mg-PP-PCCs). This study aims to investigate the in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of the surface-modified Zn1Mg. The effect of the surface modification on the inflammatory response and osteogenic repair process was investigated. Compared with unmodified Zn1Mg, the degradation rate of Zn1Mg-PP-PCCs was significantly decreased, avoiding the cytotoxicity triggered by the release of large amounts of Zn2+. Moreover, PCCs significantly enhanced the cell-material adhesion, promoted the proliferation of osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) and upregulated the expression of key osteogenic factors in vitro. Notably, the in vivo experiments revealed that the surface modification of Zn1Mg suppressed inhibited the expression of inflammatory cytokines, promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting bone tissue repair. Furthermore, histological analysis of tissue sections exhibited strong integration between the material and the bone, along with well-defined new bone formation and reduced osteoclast aggregation on the surface. This was attributed to the improved immune microenvironment by PCCs, which promoted osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts. These findings highlight that the preparation of PCCs coatings on zinc alloy surfaces effectively inhibited ion release and modulated the immune environment to promote bone tissue repair. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Surface modification of biodegradable Zn alloys facilitates the suppression of intense immune responses caused by excessive ion release concentrations from implants. We modified the surface of Zn1Mg with choline phosphate chitosan (PCCs) and investigated the effects of surface modification on the inflammatory response and osteogenic repair process. In vitro results showed that the PCCs coating effectively reduced the degradation rate of Zn1Mg to avoid cytotoxicity caused by high Zn2+ concentration, favoring the proliferation of osteoblasts. In addition, in vivo results indicated that Zn1Mg-PP-PCCs attenuated inflammation to promote bone repair by modulating the release of inflammation-related factors. The surface-modified Zn1Mg implants demonstrated strong osseointegration, indicating that the PCCs coating effectively modulated the immune microenvironment and promoted bone healing.

PTEN-mediated FOXO signaling affects autophagy, migration and invasion of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive, systemic autoimmune disease. Among them, abnormal proliferation, migration and vascularization of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are the main pathological basis of persistent synovitis and bone destruction in RA. In the current study, we attempted to find effective molecular mechanisms for the treatment of RA by investigating RA-FLS. Firstly, the study was conducted to identify the potential target gene PTEN and its related signaling pathway through bioinformatics analysis. Subsequently, the target gene PTEN overexpression was regulated by cell transfection. The expression of FOXO signaling factors and autophagy-related proteins were detected by western blotting assay. Cell proliferation was measured by CCK-8 and EdU assays. Inflammation level was detected by ELISA. Cell migration and invasion were detected using wound healing assay and transwell chamber assay, respectively. Cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry. The results showed that overexpression of PTEN activated FOXO1 signaling in RA-FLS, and regulated autophagy, proliferation, invasion, migration, and the levels of pro-inflammatory factors in the disease. In conclusion, PTEN might provide an effective therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis by mediating the FOXO1 signaling pathway.

Function and inhibition of P38 MAP kinase signaling: Targeting multiple inflammation diseases

Inflammation is a natural host defense mechanism that protects the body from pathogenic microorganisms. A growing body of research suggests that inflammation is a key factor in triggering other diseases (lung injury, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.). However, there is no consensus on the complex mechanism of inflammatory response, which may include enzyme activation, mediator release, and tissue repair. In recent years, p38 MAPK, a member of the MAPKs family, has attracted much attention as a central target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. However, many p38 MAPK inhibitors attempting to obtain marketing approval have failed at the clinical trial stage due to selectivity and/or toxicity issues. In this paper, we discuss the mechanism of p38 MAPK in regulating inflammatory response and its key role in major inflammatory diseases and summarize the synthetic or natural products targeting p38 MAPK to improve the inflammatory response in the last five years, which will provide ideas for the development of novel clinical anti-inflammatory drugs based on p38 MAPK inhibitors.

Cryopreservation of organoids: Strategies, innovation, and future prospects

Organoid technology has demonstrated unique advantages in multidisciplinary fields such as disease research, tumor drug sensitivity, clinical immunity, drug toxicology, and regenerative medicine. It will become the most promising research tool in translational research. However, the long preparation time of organoids and the lack of high-quality cryopreservation methods limit the further application of organoids. Although the high-quality cryopreservation of small-volume biological samples such as cells and embryos has been successfully achieved, the existing cryopreservation methods for organoids still face many bottlenecks. In recent years, with the development of materials science, cryobiology, and interdisciplinary research, many new materials and methods have been applied to cryopreservation. Several new cryopreservation methods have emerged, such as cryoprotectants (CPAs) of natural origin, ice-controlled biomaterials, and rapid rewarming methods. The introduction of these technologies has expanded the research scope of cryopreservation of organoids, provided new approaches and methods for cryopreservation of organoids, and is expected to break through the current technical bottleneck of cryopreservation of organoids. This paper reviews the progress of cryopreservation of organoids in recent years from three aspects: damage factors of cryopreservation of organoids, new protective agents and loading methods, and new technologies of cryopreservation and rewarming.

Anti-Neuroinflammatory Effects of Arecae pericarpium on LPS-Stimulated BV2 Cells

Arecae pericarpium (AP), the fruit peel of the betel palm, is a traditional Oriental herbal medicine. AP is used to treat various diseases and conditions, such as ascites, edema, and urinary retention, in traditional Korean medicine. Recent studies have demonstrated its anti-obesity and antibacterial effects; however, its anti-neuroinflammatory effects have not yet been reported. Therefore, we investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of AP on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse microglia in this study. To determine the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of AP on BV2 microglial cells, we examined the production of nitric oxide (NO) using Griess assay and assessed the mRNA expression levels of inflammatory mediators, such as inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, using a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, we determined the levels of mitogen-activated protein kinases and IκBα via Western blotting to understand the regulating mechanisms of AP. AP treatment decreased NO production in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. Additionally, AP suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX-2 and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. AP also inhibited the activation of p38 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. Therefore, AP exerts anti-neuroinflammatory effects via inactivation of the p38 and NF-κB pathways.

Immunomodulatory potential of dietary soybean-derived saponins

Soybeans are widely recognized as a valuable crop, often included as a high-quality protein source in production animal diets. In addition to contributing to the macronutrient composition of the diet, soybeans also contain many minor bioactive components which can influence the health and growth of animals. This review examined the immunomodulatory potential of soy saponins and their specific effects on the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and intestinal barrier function. Saponins are amphiphilic molecules, a property imparted by their polar carbohydrate chains that attach to a nonpolar aglycone backbone. This structure also complicates their isolation, thus most research investigating soy saponins has been performed in models that only require small amounts of isolated material. Many experiments conducted in vitro or in rodents reported that saponins can reduce damage, particularly in conditions where a challenge was first introduced to stimulate inflammation or oxidative stress. It appears that saponins can exert their anti-inflammatory effects through modulation of the NF-κB pathway, reducing its activation and the release of pro-inflammatory molecules later in the cascade. Furthermore, soy saponins can influence levels of important anti-oxidative enzymes and reduce the generation of reactive oxygen species, thus attenuating levels of oxidative stress in the model. As these results were obtained from experiments done in vitro or in rodents, they neglect to provide a good representation of how soy saponins may affect some of the greatest consumers of soy-based products, with those being production animals. The work that has been done seems to indicate that soy saponins may exert similar anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in production animals as those observed in other research models along with immunostimulatory activity that may help boost host defense systems. Overall, there is a dearth of research regarding the effects of soy saponins on species that commonly consume soy products, which begins by developing more effective methods of saponin extraction.

Targeted therapies of curcumin focus on its therapeutic benefits in cancers and human health: Molecular signaling pathway-based approaches and future perspectives

The curry powder spices turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), which contains curcumin (diferuloylmethane), an orange-yellow chemical. Polyphenols are the most commonly used sources of curcumin. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation in diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and depression. Most of these benefits are due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin consumption leads to decreased bioavailability, resulting in limited absorption, quick metabolism, and quick excretion, which hinders health improvement. Numerous factors can increase its bioavailability. Piperine enhances bioavailability when combined with curcumin in a complex. When combined with other enhancing agents, curcumin has a wide spectrum of health benefits. This review evaluates the therapeutic potential of curcumin with a specific emphasis on its approach based on molecular signaling pathways. This study investigated its influence on the progression of cancer, inflammation, and many health-related mechanisms, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. Curcumin has a significant potential for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Curcumin modulates several biochemical pathways and targets involved in cancer growth. Despite its limited tissue accumulation and bioavailability when administered orally, curcumin has proven useful. This review provides an in-depth analysis of curcumin's therapeutic applications, its molecular signaling pathway-based approach, and its potential for precision medicine in cancer and human health.

Recent Insights into the Etiopathogenesis of Diabetic Retinopathy and Its Management

Purpose: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular retinal disease associated with chronic diabetes mellitus, characterized by the damage of blood vessels in the eye. It is projected to become the leading cause of blindness, given the increasing burden of the diabetic population worldwide. The diagnosis and management of DR pose significant challenges for physicians because of the involvement of multiple biochemical pathways and the complexity of ocular tissues. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of DR, including the polyo pathway, hexosamine pathway, protein kinase C (PKC), JAK/STAT signaling pathways, and the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Methods: Academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science was systematically searched using a carefully constructed search strategy incorporating keywords like "Diabetic Retinopathy," "Molecular Pathways," "Pharmacological Treatments," and "Clinical Trials" to identify relevant literature for the comprehensive review. Results: In addition to activating other inflammatory cascades, these pathways contribute to the generation of oxidative stress within the retina. Furthermore, it aims to explore the existing pharmacotherapy options available for the treatment of DR. In addition to conventional pharmacological therapies such as corticosteroids, antivascular endothelial growth factors, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), this review highlights the potential of repurposed drugs, phyto-pharmaceuticals, and novel pipeline drugs currently undergoing various stages of clinical trials. Conclusion: Overall, this review serves as a technical exploration of the complex nature of DR, highlighting both established and emerging molecular pathways implicated in its pathogenesis. Furthermore, it delves into the available pharmacological treatments, as well as the promising repurposed drugs, phyto-pharmaceuticals, and novel drugs currently being evaluated in clinical trials, with a focus on their specific mechanisms of action.

Potential natural product 3,4-seco-schitriterpenoids from Kadsura japonica L. as anti-neuroinflammatory agents

In the present study, the undescribed schitriterpenoids, kadsujanonols A-I (1-9), and eleven reported compounds (10-20) were isolated from K. japonica L. vines. Their structures of 3,4-seco-schitriterpenoids were elucidated mainly by spectroscopic analyses including 1H-, 13C-, and 2D-NMR, IR, HRESIMS spectra. The spatial configurations were determined by the single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of kadsujapnonol A (1), 15, 17, and 18, CD data and computational analysis. Furthermore, all isolates were evaluated for the anti-neuroinflammatory activity on LPS-stimulated NO production in BV2 microglial cells and compounds 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13-16, and 18 exposed better or comparable suppression abilities than PDTC. Among them, kadlongilactone B (14) showed the best significant inhibiting ability (IC50 = 0.87 μg/mL) and the effect is through the attenuation of the inflammatory transcription factor p65NF-κB. Preliminary structure-activity relationship revealed that δ-lactone at the side chain and 7-member lactone at C-3/C-4, and 3,4:9,10 ring opening are important.

Immunopromoter improves liver apoptosis and immune response in Shaoxing ducklings

Antibiotics as feed additives, play a vital role in animal husbandry. However, overused antibiotics could cause endogenous infections in animals, and even endanger human health through the food chain. And immunopotentiators can make the low immune function improve and accelerate the induction of immune response. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of five different immunopotentiators on the expression of liver apoptosis and immune factor related genes in Shaoxing ducklings (Anas Platyrhynchos). A total of 150 one-day-old Shaoxing ducklings were randomly divided into six groups including saline, chlorogenic acid, β-D-glucan, astragalus flavone, CpG DNA and chicken IgG, which were injected subcutaneously into the neck, respectively. At 18 days old, the liver tissues were collected to detecte the mRNA and protein expression levels of inflammatory and apoptosis-related genes. The results showed that compared with the control group, the mRNA and protein levels of liver Bcl2 with chlorogenic acid, β-D-glucan, astragalus flavone, CpG-DNA and chicken IgG were significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while the expression level of Caspase3 was up-regulated in some different degrees. In addition,The expression levels of liver iNOS and COX2 were significantly increased after the injection of five immunopotentiators (p < 0.05), and the mRNA levels of IFN-α, IFN-β, IL-1β, RIG-I, TLR3 and TLR7 genes were also significantly up-regulated compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, chlorogenic acid, β-D-glucan, astragalus flavone, CpG-DNA and chicken IgG can be used as immunopotentiators to regulate duck innate immunity. This study provides a new way to prevent important infectious diseases of ducks, and also provides a certain reference for the application of antibiotic substitutes in animal production.

Genome Mining of Linaridins Provides Insights into the Widely Distributed LinC Oxidoreductases

Linaridins are a family of underexplored ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides despite the prevalence of their biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) in microbial genomes, as shown by bioinformatic studies. Our genome mining efforts reveal that 96 putative oxidoreductase genes, namely, LinC, are encoded in linaridin BGCs. We heterologously expressed two such LinC-containing linaridin BGCs, yan and ydn, from Streptomyces yunnanensis and obtained three new linaridins, named yunnanaridins A-C (1-3). Their structures are characterized by Z-configurations of the dehydrobutyrines and the presence of a variety of epimerized amino acid residues. Yunnanaridin A (1) is the sixth member of the family of type-B linaridins, whereas yunnanaridins B (2) and C (3) represent the first examples of expressed type-C linaridins. Interestingly, heterologous expression of the same BGCs with LinC in-frame knockouts produced the same compounds. This work expands the structural diversity of linaridins and provides evidence for the notion that the widespread LinCs may not be involved in linaridin biosynthesis.