Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats

Curcumin ameliorates focal segmental glomerulosclerosis by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress in podocytes

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a podocyte disease, is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Nevertheless, the current effective treatment for FSGS is deficient. Curcumin (CUR) is a principal curcuminoid of turmeric, which is a member of the ginger family. Previous studies have shown that CUR has renoprotective effects. However, the mechanism of CUR in anti-FSGS is not clear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of CUR against FSGS through a combination of network pharmacological methods and verification of experiments. The analysis identified 98 shared targets of CUR against FSGS, and these 98 targets formed a network of protein-protein interactions (PPI). Of these 98 targets, AKT1, TNF, IL-6, VEGFA, STAT3, MAPK3, HIF1A, CASP3, IL1B, and JUN were identified as the hub targets. Molecular docking suggested that the best binding to CUR is MAPK3 and AKT1. Apoptotic process and cell proliferation were identified as the main biological processes of CUR against FSGS by gene ontology (GO) analysis. The most enriched signaling pathway in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis was the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Western blots and flow cytometry showed that CUR could inhibit adriamycin (ADR) induced apoptosis, oxidative stress damage, and attenuate podocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by repressing the AKT signaling pathway. Collectively, our study demonstrates that CUR can attenuate apoptosis, oxidative stress damage, and EMT in FSGS in vitro. These results supply a compelling basis for future studies of CUR for the clinical treatment of FSGS.

Curcumin, inflammation, and neurological disorders: How are they linked?

Background

Despite the extensive research in recent years, the current treatment modalities for neurological disorders are suboptimal. Curcumin, a polyphenol found in Curcuma genus, has been shown to mitigate the pathophysiology and clinical sequalae involved in neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods

We searched PubMed database for relevant publications on curcumin and its uses in treating neurological diseases. We also reviewed relevant clinical trials which appeared on searching PubMed database using 'Curcumin and clinical trials'.

Results

This review details the pleiotropic immunomodulatory functions and neuroprotective properties of curcumin, its derivatives and formulations in various preclinical and clinical investigations. The effects of curcumin on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), brain tumors, epilepsy, Huntington's disorder (HD), ischemia, Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) with a major focus on associated signalling pathways have been thoroughly discussed.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates curcumin can suppress spinal neuroinflammation by modulating diverse astroglia mediated cascades, ensuring the treatment of neurological disorders.

Curcumin Formulations for Better Bioavailability: What We Learned from Clinical Trials Thus Far?

Curcumin has been credited with a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties for the prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases such as arthritis, autoimmune diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hemoglobinopathies, hypertension, infectious diseases, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, neurological diseases, obesity, and skin diseases. However, due to its weak solubility and bioavailability, it has limited potential as an oral medication. Numerous factors including low water solubility, poor intestinal permeability, instability at alkaline pH, and fast metabolism contribute to curcumin's limited oral bioavailability. In order to improve its oral bioavailability, different formulation techniques such as coadministration with piperine, incorporation into micelles, micro/nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, liposomes, solid dispersions, spray drying, and noncovalent complex formation with galactomannosides have been investigated with in vitro cell culture models, in vivo animal models, and humans. In the current study, we extensively reviewed clinical trials on various generations of curcumin formulations and their safety and efficacy in the treatment of many diseases. We also summarized the dose, duration, and mechanism of action of these formulations. We have also critically reviewed the advantages and limitations of each of these formulations compared to various placebo and/or available standard care therapies for these ailments. The highlighted integrative concept embodied in the development of next-generation formulations helps to minimize bioavailability and safety issues with least or no adverse side effects and the provisional new dimensions presented in this direction may add value in the prevention and cure of complex chronic diseases.

Protective effects of curcumin on ischemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a term used to describe phenomena connected to the dysfunction of various tissue damage due to reperfusion after ischemic injury. While I/R may result in systemic inflammatory response syndrome or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, there is still a long way to improve therapeutic outcomes. A number of cellular metabolic and ultrastructural alterations occur by prolonged ischemia. Ischemia increases the expression of proinflammatory gene products and bioactive substances within the endothelium, such as cytokines, leukocytes, and adhesion molecules, even as suppressing the expression of other "protective" gene products and substances, such as thrombomodulin and constitutive nitric oxide synthase (e.g., prostacyclin, nitric oxide [NO]). Curcumin is the primary phenolic pigment derived from turmeric, the powdered rhizome of Curcuma longa. Numerous studies have shown that curcumin has strong antiinflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. It also prevents lipid peroxidation and scavenges free radicals like superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, NO, and hydroxyl. In our study, we highlight the mechanisms of protective effects of curcumin against I/R injury in various organs.

Curcumin alleviates aristolochic acid nephropathy based on SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Aristolochic acid I (AA-I), presenting in a variety of natural medicinal plants, which could cause tubular epithelial cell injury. Curcumin (CUR), a polyphenolic substance isolated from turmeric, is a natural antioxidant. The aim of this experiment was to investigate whether CUR attenuated AA-I-induced renal injury in rats through the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. SD rats were treated with AA-I (10 mg/kg) or/and CUR (200 mg/kg) for 28 days to assess the protective effect of CUR on AA-I-induced renal injury in vivo. NRK-52E cells were treated with AA-I (40 μ M) or/and CUR (20 μ M) for 24 h in vitro. The intervention pathway of CUR against oxidative stress injury induced by AA-I was assessed by observing pathological changes, oxidative stress status, apoptosis and the expression of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway-related factors. The results showed that AA-I exposure increased the contents of BUN, Cr, KIM-1, NGAL, ALT and AST in serum. It increased the content of MDA, decreased the activities of SOD, GST, GSH and the content of ATP in renal tissue. Pathological changes such as inflammatory cell infiltration and mitochondrial injury occurred in renal tissue. AA-I exposure resulted in a substantial rise in the levels of BAX, Ccaspase-9, Cleaved Caspase-9, Caspase-3, Cleaved Caspase-3 and a significant decrease in mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-2, SIRT1, Nrf2, NQO1, HO-1 and Keap1. However, these changes were reversed by CUR intervention. In summary, AA-I exposure caused mitochondrial dysfunction and triggered apoptosis through the oxidative stress pathway. However, CUR could reduce AA-I-induced renal injury by activating the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Engineered Stable Bioactive Per Se Amphiphilic Phosphorus Dendron Nanomicelles as a Highly Efficient Drug Delivery System To Take Down Breast Cancer In Vivo

Conventional small molecular chemical drugs always have challenging limitations in cancer therapy due to their high systemic toxicity and low therapeutic efficacy. Nanotechnology has been applied in drug delivery, bringing new promising potential to realize effective cancer treatment. In this context, we develop here a new nanomicellar drug delivery platform generated by amphiphilic phosphorus dendrons (1-C17G3.HCl), which could form micelles for effective encapsulation of a hydrophobic anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) with a high drug loading content (42.4%) and encapsulation efficiency (96.7%). Owing to the unique dendritic rigid structure and surface hydrophilic groups, large steady void space of micelles can be created for drug encapsulation. The created DOX-loaded micelles with a mean diameter of 26.3 nm have good colloidal stability. Strikingly, we show that the drug-free micelles possess good intrinsic anticancer activity and act collectively with DOX to take down breast cancer cells in vitro and the xenografted tumor model in vivo through upregulation of Bax, PTEN, and p53 proteins for enhanced cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the resulting 1-C17G3.HCl@DOX micelles significantly abolish the toxicity relevant to the free drug. The findings of this study demonstrate a unique nanomicelle-based drug delivery system created with the self-assembling amphiphilic phosphorus dendrons that may be adapted for chemotherapy of different cancer types.

Dexrazoxane Alleviated Doxorubicin-Induced Nephropathy in Rats

INTRODUCTION

Doxorubicin (DOX), an anthracycline antitumor agent, has been widely used against various solid tumors and hematological malignancies. However, the clinical application of DOX is restricted by its multiple organ toxicity including nephrotoxicity. This study investigated the protective effects and mechanisms of dexrazoxane (DZR) against DOX-induced nephropathy in rats.

METHODS

Male Sprague Dawley rats received 2.5 mg/kg DOX once a week for 5 consecutive weeks. 24-h urinary protein and renal function injury biomarkers were determined to evaluate the renal function. Histopathological changes and glomerulosclerosis were examined by hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining. The change of renal ultrastructure in the DOX-induced rats was observed by the electron microscopy. The renal apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and measured the protein expression of Caspase-3, Bcl-2, and Bax. Renal interstitial fibrosis was determined by Masson staining and immunohistochemistry examination. The levels of vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) in kidney tissue were detected by Western blot.

RESULTS

DZR pretreatment markedly raised the survival rate and improved the renal dysfunction in DOX-treated rats. DZR ameliorated DOX-induced histopathological lesion of glomerular and tubular and apoptosis. DZR restored the oxidant/antioxidant balance via regulating the levels of MDA, SOD, and TAC. DZR reduced DOX-induced collagen IV deposition and renal interstitial fibrosis and downregulated the fibrosis-related protein expressions of vimentin, α-SMA, and TGF-β1.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest DZR exerted its protective effects against DOX-induced nephropathy through inhibition of lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, and fibrosis.

The Potential use of a Curcumin-Piperine Combination as an Antimalarial Agent: A Systematic Review

Malaria remains a significant global health problem, but the development of effective antimalarial drugs is challenging due to the parasite's complex life cycle and lack of knowledge about the critical specific stages. Medicinal plants have been investigated as adjuvant therapy for malaria, so this systematic review summarizes 46 primary articles published until December 2020 that discuss curcumin and piperine as antimalarial agents. The selected articles discussed their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptosis properties, as well as their mechanism of action against Plasmodium species. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant, damages parasite DNA, and may promote an immune response against Plasmodium by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), while piperine is also a potent antioxidant that potentiates the effects of curcumin. Hence, combining these compounds is likely to have the same effect as chloroquine, that is, attenuate and restrict parasite development, thereby reducing parasitemia and increasing host survival. This systematic review presents new information regarding the development of a curcumin-piperine combination for future malaria therapy.

Curcumin Improves Biomolecules Associated with Renal Function and Attenuates Oxidative Injury and Histopathological Changes in Potassium-Induced Toxicity in Rats' Kidney

The protective effect of curcumin on potassium bromate (KBrO₃)-induced renal damage was investigated in vivo. Treatment with KBrO₃ (20 mg/kg bw) caused a significant increase in arginase and adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities in rats' kidney. However, oral administration of curcumin (20 mg/kg bw) caused a significant reduction in ADA and arginase activities in KBrO₃ + CUR group. Furthermore, nitric oxide level was significantly low in KBrO₃ group compared with the control. After treatment with curcumin in KBrO₃ + CUR group, nitric oxide levels increased significantly (P < 0.05). Determination of some kidney biomarkers revealed elevated levels of creatinine, serum urea, and electrolytes (Na⁺ and Cl^-) in KBrO₃-treated rats. Curcumin effectively reduced the levels of these renal function parameters in KBrO₃ + CUR groups and were not significantly different from the control. Antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities as well as glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly low with concomitant higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) after treatment with KBrO₃. Curcumin caused a significant increase in SOD, CAT, and GPX activities including GSH levels with lower production of MDA in kidney homogenates of rats in KBrO₃ + CUR. Curcumin ameliorated corpuscular degeneration in the kidney tissue and exhibited protection against tubular necrosis. These results revealed the protective effect of curcumin against KBrO₃-induced renal toxicity by preventing degradation of ADA and arginine, improving antioxidant status and histopathological changes in rats' kidney.

Nephroprotective activity of Annona Squamosa leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: in vitro and in vivo experiments

Background

Paracetamol (PCM), being extensively adapted analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug all over the world, beyond therapeutic dosages, the oxidative stress-involved nephrotoxicity has been evidenced. However, herbal plants are the windfall for the humankind providing solution for most of the wellness breakdowns. Annona squamosa (AS) is one of such plants with enormous therapeutic and nutraceutical potencies. The main aspiration of the current investigation is to evaluate the nephroprotective ability of ethanolic extract of Annona squamosa (EEAS) leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity using in vitro human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells and in vivo experiments in Wistar rats through biochemical parameters, oxidative parameters, and histopathological findings.

Results

When HEK-293 cells were incubated with PCM, an increased cell death associated with alterations in the morphology of normal cells was observed. At variable concentrations, HEK-293 cells co-treated with PCM and EEAS extracts gave a significant improvement in cell growth on comparing with PCM treatment showing cytoprotective feature of EEAS with an IC50 28.75 μg/mL. In vivo nephroprotective property was assessed from the amount of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) along with creatinine and uric acid which were reduced (P < 0.001) within serum and compact levels of glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase which were termed as GSH, CAT, and SOD, respectively, were increased (P < 0.001) in kidney tissue homogenate in the treated groups than the PCM alone group. Results were additionally supported by histopathological observations.

Conclusion

The results exhibited that EEAS has impending benefits against PCM-induced nephrotoxicity through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Electroresponsive Alginate-Based Hydrogels for Controlled Release of Hydrophobic Drugs

Stimuli-responsive biomaterials have attracted significant attention for the construction of on-demand drug release systems. The possibility of using external stimulation to trigger drug release is particularly enticing for hydrophobic compounds, which are not easily released by simple diffusion. In this work, an electrochemically active hydrogel, which has been prepared by gelling a mixture of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and alginate (Alg), has been loaded with curcumin (CUR), a hydrophobic drug with a wide spectrum of clinical applications. The PEDOT/Alg hydrogel is electrochemically active and organizes as segregated PEDOT- and Alg-rich domains, explaining its behavior as an electroresponsive drug delivery system. When loaded with CUR, the hydrogel demonstrates a controlled drug release upon application of a negative electrical voltage. Comparison with the release profiles obtained applying a positive voltage and in the absence of electrical stimuli indicates that the release mechanism dominating this system is complex because of not only the intermolecular interactions between the drug and the polymeric network but also the loading of a hydrophobic drug in a water-containing delivery system.

Reductive metabolites of curcumin and their therapeutic effects

Curcumin, a secondary metabolite from the turmeric plant is one of the most promising natural products, which has been studied extensively for decades. It has demonstrated several pharmacological activities in vitro and in vivo. Various studies have indicated that the pharmacological activity of curcumin is contributed by its metabolites. The aim of this review is to present an overview of metabolic products of curcumin produced upon its reduction like di, tetra, hexa and octa-hydrocurcumin. In addition, this paper has systematically analyzed the current information regarding medicinal use of reduced metabolites of curcumin and identified the limitations which have hindered its widespread usage in the medical world. Several diverse therapeutic effects have shown to be exhibited by reduced metabolites of curcumin such as antioxidant, anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activities. The potential underlying molecular mechanisms of the biological activities of reduced metabolites of curcumin have also been highlighted, which may provide insight into the principle of effectiveness of curcumin.

Exploring protective effect of Glycine tabacina aqueous extract against nephrotic syndrome by network pharmacology and experimental verification

Background

Glycine tabacina (Labill.) Benth, one of the traditional Chinese herbal medicines, has been used for treatment of nephritis, osteoporosis, rheumatism, and menopausal syndrome. The aim of this study was to illuminate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of Glycine tabacina aqueous extract (GATE) in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS).

Methods

UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS was used to analyze the chemical profile of GATE. Adriamycin (ADR)-induced NS mouse model and network pharmacology methods were conducted to explore the protective effect and mechanism of GATE on NS treatment.

Results

GATE administration significantly ameliorated symptoms of proteinuria and hyperlipidemia in NS mice, as evidenced by reduced excretion of urine protein and albumin, and decreased plasma levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride. Decreased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels in NS mice suggested that GATE could prevent renal function decline caused by ADR. GATE treatment also inhibited ADR-induced pathological lesions of renal tissues as indicated by periodic acid Schiff staining. Six flavonoids of GATE were identified by using UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that the protection of GATE in treating NS might be associated with the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, the in vivo experiment validated that treatment with GATE markedly decreased reactive oxygen species production, malonaldehyde level, and increased superoxide dismutase activity both in plasma and renal tissues. TNF-α level in plasma and protein expression in kidney were significantly decreased in GATE treatment groups.

Conclusions

Combination of network pharmacology analysis and experimental verification revealed that GATE exerts anti-NS effect possibly through modulating oxidative stress and inflammation, suggesting the potential application of GATE or its derivatives in the prevention and treatment of NS and other related kidney diseases.

Antiviral Strategies of Chinese Herbal Medicine Against PRRSV Infection

Bioactive compounds from Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) are gradually becoming an effective alternative in the control of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) because most of the commercially available PRRSV vaccines cannot provide full protection against the genetically diverse strains isolated from farms. Besides, the incomplete attenuation procedure involved in the production of modified live vaccines (MLV) may cause them to revert to the more virulence forms. TCMs have shown some promising potentials in bridging this gap. Several investigations have revealed that herbal extracts from TCMs contain molecules with significant antiviral activities against the various stages of the life cycle of PRRSV, and they do this through different mechanisms. They either block PRRSV attachment and entry into cells or inhibits the replication of viral RNA or viral particles assembly and release or act as immunomodulators and pathogenic pathway inhibitors through cytokines regulations. Here, we summarized the various antiviral strategies employed by some TCMs against the different stages of the life cycle of PRRSV under two major classes, including direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and indirect-acting antivirals (IAAs). We highlighted their mechanisms of action. In conclusion, we recommended that in making plans for the use of TCMs to control PRRSV, the pathway forward must be built on a real understanding of the mechanisms by which bioactive compounds exert their effects. This will provide a template that will guide the focus of collaborative studies among researchers in the areas of bioinformatics, chemistry, and proteomics. Furthermore, available data and procedures to support the efficacy, safety, and quality control levels of TCMs should be well documented without any breach of data integrity and good manufacturing practices.

Mechanism underlying nephroprotective property of curcumin against sodium nitrite-induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rat

The current work examined the outcome of curcumin (20 mg/kg body weight/day) administration on arginase and adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities and other kidney markers, as well as markers of oxidative stress, in Wistar rats exposed to sodium nitrite (NaNO₂ ) (60 mg/kg of body weight, single dose) for 28 days. The results revealed that the NaNO₂ exposed rats had significantly altered the ADA activities, arginase activities alongside other biomarkers of kidney function, and oxidative stress. However, pretreatment with curcumin significantly mitigated the altered activities ADA and arginase as well as other parameters. This was supported by the histopathological examination of the kidney tissues. Our findings suggest that the alteration in the activities of ADA and arginase could be involved in the mechanism of action employed by NaNO₂ and curcumin in the respective induction and prevention of nephrotoxicity. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: These results suggest that moderate exposure to the acceptable daily dose of curcumin can improve food-related kidney damage through regulations of ADA and arginase activities, enhancement in the antioxidant system, and suppression of lipid peroxidation.

Nephroprotective effects of curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles in cypermethrin induced renal toxicity in rabbits

Cypermethrin, a pyrethroid insecticide, may cause several adverse effects including nephrotoxicity. Curcumin is a nutraceutical with many pharmacological effects including nephroprotective effects. But its effective clinical use is limited due to poor bioavailability, physicochemical instability, low bioactive absorption, quick metabolization, less penetration, and targeting efficacy. To resolve these issues, curcumin is incorporated in chitosan nanoparticles. The focus of the study was to prepare and characterize curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles and evaluate their nephroprotective activity in a cypermethrin induced renal toxicity. The curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by using solvent displacement method and characterized by particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, entrapment efficiency, and FTIR. The prepared formulation was stable and lies within nanometer range (264.8 nm), and possessed high drug loading capacity (84.64%). Cypermethrin (24 mg/kg body weight) and Curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles (15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg body weight) were orally administered to 20 rabbits (4 groups) for 28 days. It was found that cypermethrin significantly increased the serum levels of creatinine, urea, and BUN and decreased glutathione S-transferase and superoxide dismutase. Co-administration of curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles provided pronounced beneficial effects against cypermethrin-induced biochemical alterations and oxidative damage in the kidneys of rabbits. 30 mg/kg body weight of curcumin loaded chitosan nanoparticles have better nephroprotective effects as compared to 15 mg/kg body weight.

Effect of hexavalent chromium exposure on the liver and kidney tissues related to the expression of CYP450 and GST genes of Oreochromis niloticus fish: Role of curcumin supplemented diet

The present study evaluated the adverse effects of the hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) at sub-lethal concentrations and the ameliorative potential of curcumin (CUR) over a sub-chronic exposure period on Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were exposed to Cr (VI) (4.57 mg/L) and CUR (0.02% in diet or 200 mg/kg diet), individually or in combination for 60-days. The growth rate during the period of experiment, condition factor, body composition, hepatosomatic index (HSI), hematological parameters, oxidative stress, apoptotic and DNA damage, branchial, hepato- and nephrotoxicity were estimated in this study. Moreover, the changes in mRNA expression of Cytochromes (CYP450) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in kidney and liver tissues were assessed by qRT-PCR. Additionally, the concentration of metallothionine in the liver, histological investigation, and lesion scoring to the branchial, hepatic, renal and gill tissues were applied. The results revealed that Cr (VI) exposure caused a significant decline in most hematological variables and growth rate with down-regulation of CYP450 and GST expression. Histologically, Cr (VI) induced diverse forms of cell injury, vascular, and inflammatory alterations with upregulation of caspase-3 and downregulation of Bcl₂ expression in the examined tissues. Additionally, it elevated the levels of serum MDA and 8-hydroxy-2' -deoxyguanosine than control. CUR-supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in most indices, amelioration of histological alterations and up-regulation of CYP450 and GST expression. These results may conclude that dietary supplements with CUR could be useful for modulation of the growth with protective effects to the branchial, hepatic, and renal tissues in response to Cr (VI) exposure, thereby presenting a promising feed additive for Nile tilapia in aquaculture.

Chronic treatment of curcumin improves hepatic lipid metabolism and alleviates the renal damage in adenine-induced chronic kidney disease in Sprague-Dawley rats

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), including nephrotic syndrome, is a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The literature indicates that CKD is associated with profound lipid disorders due to the dysregulation of lipoprotein metabolism which progresses kidney disease. The objective of this study is to evaluate the protective effects of curcumin on dyslipidaemia associated with adenine-induced chronic kidney disease in rats.

Methods

Male SD rats (n = 29) were divided into 5 groups for 24 days: normal control (n = 5, normal diet), CKD control (n = 6, 0.75% w/w adenine-supplemented diet), CUR 50 (n = 6, 50 mg/kg/day curcumin + 0.75% w/w adenine-supplemented diet), CUR 100 (n = 6, 100 mg/kg/day curcumin + 0.75% w/w adenine-supplemented diet), and CUR 150 (n = 6, 150 mg/kg/day curcumin + 0.75% w/w adenine-supplemented diet). The serum and tissue lipid profile, as well as the kidney function test, were measured using commercial diagnostic kits.

Results

The marked rise in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, triglycerides and free fatty acids in serum, as well as hepatic cholesterol, triglyceride and free fatty acids of CKD control rats were significantly protected by curcumin co-treatment (at the dose of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg). Furthermore, curcumin significantly increased the serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol compared to the CKD control rats but did not attenuate the CKD-induced weight retardation. Mathematical computational analysis revealed that curcumin significantly reduced indicators for the risk of atherosclerotic lesions (atherogenic index) and coronary atherogenesis (coronary risk index). In addition, curcumin improved kidney function as shown by the reduction in proteinuria and improvement in creatinine clearance.

Conclusion

The results provide new scientific evidence for the use of curcumin in CKD-associated dyslipidaemia and substantiates the traditional use of curcumin in preventing kidney damage.

Protective effect of curcumin on fertility in cyclophosphamide exposed rats: Involvement of multiple pathways

This study assesses the effect of curcumin on cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced functional alterations of the testicular, brain, and pituitary axis in common rodents, rats. Only CPA was given at 150 mg/kg body weight only on Day 1 or orally pre and posttreated with curcumin at 20 mg/kg body weight successively for 14 days. The outcomes showed that curcumin pre and posttreatments significantly affected the elevation of biomarkers of oxidative stress in CPA-induced rats, moreover, it increased nonenzymatic antioxidant levels in the epididymis, testes, and brain of the treated rats used in this study. In addition, followed by the preservation of histo-architectures of the epididymis, testes, and brain in the rats treated with CPA, curcumin helped in increasing the sperm quality and quantity and suppressing both the inflammatory indices and the activities of caspase-3, while pretreatment with curcumin gave a better result than posttreatment with curcumin. This may, therefore, represent a prospective adjuvant against CPA-induced spermatogenic deficits in humans. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Jointly, through the antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of curcumin, it instigated the toxicity of CPA-induced to be modulated along the testicular, brain, and pituitary axis in the rats. This may, therefore, represent a prospective therapeutic adjuvant against CPA-induced spermatogenic deficits in humans.

Curcumin protects sodium nitrite-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats

In this study, the protective effect of curcumin on sodium nitrite (NaNO2) induced hepatotoxicity was assessed in male Wistar rats. Wistar rats were administered orally daily with 20 mg/kg of curcumin for 28 days and NaNO2 was administered as a single dose of 60 mg/kg on day 28. Lipid profile, liver function biomarkers and C-reactive protein were assessed in the serum; lipid peroxidation, non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants were assessed in the liver. Alanine amino transferases (94.67 U/L), aspartate amino transferases (194.33 U/L), alkaline phosphatases, C-reactive proteins (19.56 ng/L) and lipid peroxidation (8.03 × 10-6 μmol/mg protein) were significantly elevated (P < 0.05), while a significant decrease in lipid profiles (total cholesterol, HDL,LDL, and triglycerides): (0.61,0.37, 0.4 and 0.47 mg/dl respectively), reduced glutathione level (4.16 μmol/mg protein), and decreased catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities with severe histological alterations were observed in the livers of rats exposed to NaNO2. Pre-treatment with curcumin significantly (P < 0.05) prevented these alterations by adjusting the lipid profile, liver function markers, and C-reactive proteins and abrogating the elevated markers of oxidative stress as supported by the liver histology. This suggests that dietary consumption of curcumin is beneficial against NaNO2 induced oxidative stress of the liver via its antioxidant potential.

Efficacy of curcumin on prevention of drug-induced nephrotoxicity: A review of animal studies

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is a frequent serious adverse effect, contributing to morbidity and increased healthcare utilization. Prevention or reversal is key. Curcumin has useful biological features that include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This review covers aspects of curcumin in relation to prevention of drug-induced nephrotoxicity: dosage and schedule, effect on kidney biomarkers and histological changes, and mechanisms of curcumin's protective effects. Despite success in some animal models, human studies and clinical administration of curcumin for nephroprotection remains limited due to difficulty in achieving therapeutic levels following oral administration and in determining the optimal dosing schedule. Lack of sufficient evidence from animal studies, coupled with low systemic bioavailability, continues to limit the utilization of curcumin in addressing and controlling drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Therefore, human studies are required to fully assess and validate the therapeutic potential of curcumin.

Characterization of curcumin metabolites in rats by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry

RATIONALE

Curcumin is a major constituent of Curcuma longa L. and is a naturally bio-active diketone. Structural changes in curcumin have been shown to result in different biological effects. The present study aims to investigate curcumin metabolites in rat plasma, bile, urine, and feces after administration of a single oral dose of curcumin (170 mg/kg).

METHODS

After oral administration of curcumin, the plasma, bile, feces, and urine of the rats were collected for a certain period of time, and then subjected to a series of pretreatments. The metabolic pathway of curcumin in vivo was investigated using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) combined with electrospray ionization quadruple time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-QTOF-MS).

RESULTS

Twelve metabolites were identified and divided into two groups: curcumin metabolites of phase Ι metabolism (M01-M08), curcumin metabolites of phase ΙΙ metabolism (M09-M12), and metabolites M02, M03 and M04 were reported for the first time.

CONCLUSIONS

Results showed that curcumin metabolism can help explain the mechanism of its pharmacological effects, and that UHPLC/Q-TOF-MS can serve as an important analytical platform to gather the metabolic profile of curcumin.

Combinations of the antioxidants sulforaphane or curcumin and the conventional antineoplastics cisplatin or doxorubicin as prospects for anticancer chemotherapy

Drugs used in clinical oncology have narrow therapeutic indices with adverse toxicity often involving oxidative damage. Chemoresistance to these conventional antineoplastics is usually mediated by oxidative stress-upregulated pathways such as those of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). Accordingly, the use of antioxidants in combinational approaches has begun to be considered for fighting cancer because of both the protective role against adverse effects and the ability to sensitize chemoresistant cancer cells. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) has been identified as a mediator of the cytoprotection but it is not regularly associated with tumor chemosensitization. However, some Nrf2 inducers could be exerting cytoprotective and chemosensitizing roles through a simple integrated mechanism in which the cellular level of reactive oxygen species is controlled, thus inhibiting the oxidative damage in non-target tissues and the tumor chemoresistance mediated by NF-κB or HIF-1α. As examples to show the general idea of this antioxidant combination chemotherapy, this review explores the preclinical information available for four combinations, each composed by a paradigmatic oncological drug (cisplatin or doxorubicin) and a recognized antioxidant (sulforaphane or curcumin). The issues for translating these outcomes to clinical trials are briefly discussed.

Effect of Sodium 2,3-Dimercaptopropane-1-Sulphonate (DMPS) on Chronic Daunorubicin Toxicity in Rabbits: Comparison with Dexrazoxane

A possible protective action of DMPS (a dithiol chelating agent) against chronic daunorubicin toxicity in rabbits in comparison with dexrazoxane was investigated. The rabbits were divided into five groups: control (saline, 1 ml/kg i.v.), daunorubicin (3 mg/kg i.v.), DMPS (50 mg/kg i.v.); the remaining two groups were pre-treated either with dexrazoxane (60 mg/kg i.p.) or DMPS (50 mg/kg i.v.) 30 min before administration of daunorubicin (3 mg/kg i.v.). Drugs were given once a week for 10 weeks. Routine biochemical parameters were determined in weeks 1, 5 and 11. In the 11th week, invasive haemodynamic parameters were measured, then the rabbits underwent autopsy, cardiac tissue was examined by light microscopy and scored semiquantitatively. The contents of calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and selenium were measured in the left heart ventricle. DMPS administered alone was well tolerated and did not cause any major signs of toxicity. It decreased the cardiac content of calcium, but did not affect the iron concentration. In contrast to dexrazoxane, DMPS pre-treatment did not prevent the decline in body weight in weeks 8–11 caused by daunorubicin, actually worsened mortality (26.7% vs 40.0%), did not ameliorate daunorubicin-induced nephrotic syndrome, and did not prevent the occurrence of the severe myocardial lesions. Unlike dexrazoxane, a lack of protective effect of DMPS against chronic daunorubicin toxicity in rabbits was demonstrated. The underlying cause may consist in the fact that DMPS does not efficiently chelate tissue iron and thus may not prevent the formation of oxygen free radicals.

Some Biological Properties of Curcumin: A Review

Curcumin (diferuloyl methane), a small-molecular weight compound isolated from the roots of Curcuma longa L. (family Zingiberaceae), has been used traditionally for centuries in Asia for medicinal, culinary and other purposes. A large number of in vitro and in vivo studies in both animals and man have indicated that curcumin has strong antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic and other activities. The mechanisms of some of these actions have recently been intensively investigated. Curcumin inhibits the promotion/ progression stage of carcinogenesis by induction of apoptosis and the arrest of cancer cells in the S, G2/M cell cycle phase. The compound inhibits the activity of growth factor receptors. The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin are mediated through their effects on cytokines, lipid mediators, eicosanoids and proteolytic enzymes. Curcumin scavenges the superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide, and inhibits lipid peroxidation. These actions may be the basis for many of its pharmacological and therapeutic properties.

Curcumin is a nutraceutical of low toxicity, which has been used successfully in a number of medical conditions that include cataracts, cystic fibrosis, and prostate and colon cancers.

Antioxidant Supplementation in Renal Replacement Therapy Patients: Is There Evidence?

The disruption of balance between production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant systems in favor of the oxidants is termed oxidative stress (OS). To counteract the damaging effects of prooxidant free radicals, all aerobic organisms have antioxidant defense mechanisms that are aimed at neutralizing the circulating oxidants and repair the resulting injuries. Antioxidants are either endogenous (the natural defense mechanisms produced by the human body) or exogenous, found in supplements and foods. OS is present at the early stages of chronic kidney disease, augments progressively with renal function deterioration, and is further exacerbated by renal replacement therapy. End-stage renal disease patients, on hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD), suffer from accelerated OS, which has been associated with increased risk for mortality and cardiovascular disease. During HD sessions, the bioincompatibility of dialyzers and dialysate trigger activation of white blood cells and formation of free radicals, while a significant loss of antioxidants is also present. In PD, the bioincompatibility of solutions, including high osmolality, elevated lactate levels, low pH, and accumulation of advanced glycation end-products trigger formation of prooxidants, while there is significant loss of vitamins in the ultrafiltrate. A number of exogenous antioxidants have been suggested to ameliorate OS in dialysis patients. Vitamins B, C, D, and E, coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, a-lipoic acid, curcumin, green tea, flavonoids, polyphenols, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, statins, trace elements, and N-acetylcysteine have been studied as exogenous antioxidant supplements in both PD and HD patients.

The protective role of tannic acid against possible hepato-nephrotoxicity induced by silver nanoparticles on male rats

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are being used extensively for biomedical purposes regarding to their broad antimicrobial activity, however their toxicity has been addressed in only few studies. In the present study, we aimed to prepare and characterize AgNPs, investigate their adverse effect on liver and kidney functions, and also elucidate the hepato-nephro protective ability of tannic acid in male rats. The obtained results showed that AgNPs caused oxidative stress throughout the induction of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and the reduction of the activities of antioxidant enzymes (GST, SOD, CAT, GPx) and the levels of glutathione. Hepatic markers enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, ACP, LDH and GGT), total bilirubin, urea, creatinine and lipid profile were increased, while hematological parameters were decreased. Histopathological investigations indicated marked degeneration of hepatocytes, endothelial cells of renal which with its role has confirmed the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by AgNPs. The presence of tannic acid along with AgNPs showed obvious improvements in the injured liver and kidney tissues. The protective effect of tannic acid against the toxicity of AgNPs might be due to its antioxidant properties and scavenging abilities against active free radicals.

Curcumin attenuates nephrotoxicity induced by zinc oxide nanoparticles in rats

Curcumin (Cur) effects on renal injury induced by zinc oxide nanoparticles (NZnO) in rats were investigated. NZnO at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 14 days was administered to rats as intoxicated group. In protection group, Cur at a dose of 200 mg/kg was administered for 7 days prior to NZnO treatment and followed by concomitant administration of NZnO for 14 days. Plasma concentrations of uric acid, creatinine (Cr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were detected to evaluate renal injury. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were determined for evaluation oxidative stress. TUNEL staining and histological changes were also performed. Administration of NZnO caused a significant elevation in the uric acid, Cr, and BUN levels. Oxidative stress was increased in the kidney by NZnO through enhancing MDA contents and reducing activities of SOD and GPx enzymes. According to histological examinations, treatment with NZnO caused proximal tubule damages, which was accompanied by the accumulation of red blood cells, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and reducing glomerular diameters. Significant increase was observed in the apoptotic index of the renal tubules in NZnO-treated rats. In present work, pretreatment of Cur reduced the histological changes, decreased biomarker levels, attenuated apoptotic index, and ameliorated oxidative stress by decreasing the MDA contents and increasing the activities of SOD and GPx enzymes. These findings indicate that Cur effectively protects against NZnO-induced nephrotoxicity in the rats.

The Role of Curcumin in Prevention and Management of Metastatic Disease

In the last two decades, targeted therapies have enhanced tumor patient care and treatment success, however, metastatic growth still cannot be stopped efficiently and, therefore, mortality rates remain high. Prevention strategies against formation of metastases are the most promising approach we have, however, due to lack of clinical validation studies, they have not yet entered routine clinical care. In order to smooth the way for efficient prevention, further preclinical and large clinical studies are required. In this context, the underlying molecular mechanisms and factors that lead to metastatic growth have to be explored, and potential preventive agents have to be tested. Thereby, special attention has to be paid to natural bioactive compounds which do not exert major adverse effects, like the plant-derived polyphenol Curcumin, which is known to be a powerful antitumor agent. So far, most of the preclinical studies with Curcumin have focused on its effect on inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and invasion, although, it is known that it also inhibits metastatic spread in vivo. This review discusses the preventive potential of this natural compound not only against tumor onset, but also against formation of metastases.

Design, synthesis and cytotoxic effects of curcuminoids on HeLa, K562, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines

Background

Curcumin is one of the leading compound extracted from the dry powder of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae family), which possess several pharmacological properties. However, in vivo administration exhibited limited applications in cancer therapies.

Results

Twenty-four curcumin derivatives have synthesized, which comprises cyclohexanone 1–10, acetone 11–17 and cyclopentanone 18–24 series. All the curcuminoids were synthesized by the acid or base catalyzed Claisen Schmidt condenstion reactions, in which β-diketone moiety of curcumin was modified with mono-ketone. These curcuminoids 1–24 were screened against HeLa, K562, MCF-7 (an estrogen-dependent) and MDA-MB-231 (an estrogen-independent) cancer cell lines. Among them, acetone series 11–17 were found to be more selective and potential cytotoxic agents. The compound 14 was exhibited (IC₅₀ = 3.02 ± 1.20 and 1.52 ± 0.60 µg/mL) against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Among the cyclohexanone series, the compound 4 exhibited (IC₅₀ = 11.04 ± 2.80, 6.50 ± 01.80, 8.70 ± 3.10 and 2.30 ± 1.60 µg/mL) potential cytotoxicity against four proposed cancer cell lines, respectively. All the curcucminoids were characterized with the detailed ¹H NMR, IR, UV–Vis, and mass spectroscopic techniques. The structure of compound 4 was confirmed by using the single X-ray crystallography. Additionally, we are going to report the first time spectral data of (2E,6E)-2,6-bis(2-methoxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone (1). Structure–activity relationships revealed that the mono-carbonyl with 2,5-dimethoxy substituted curcuminoids could be an essential for the future drugs against cancer diseases.

Conclusions

Curcuminoids with diferuloyl(4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamoyl) moiety with mono carbonyl exhibiting potential cytotoxic properties. The compound 14 was exhibited (IC₅₀ = 3.02 ± 1.20 and 1.52 ± 0.60 µg/mL) against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines.

Acacia hydaspica R. Parker ameliorates cisplatin induced oxidative stress, DNA damage and morphological alterations in rat pulmonary tissue

Background

Cisplatin (CP) drug is platinum compounds used for the treatment of various human malignancies. However, adverse outcomes related to CP restrict its usage. Acacia hydaspica is a natural shrub with various pharmacological properties. The current investigation aimed to assess the protective potential of A. hydaspica polyphenol rich ethyl acetate extract (AHE) against cisplatin (CP) induced pulmonary toxicity.

Methods

Rats were divided into six groups. Group 1 served as control (saline); Group 2 (drug control) recieved single dose of CP (7.5 mg/kg i.p.) on 1st day; Group 3 (extract control) (400 mg/kg bw, p.o.) received AHE for one week; Group 4 (Post-treated) and Group 5 (pretreated) received AHE (400 mg/kg bw/day, p.o) for 7 days after and before CP (7.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) respectively; Group 6 (Standard control) received silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w/7 days) before CP. At the end of dosing rats were sacrificed and pulmonary tissue samples were processed for the evaluation of antioxidant enzymes, oxidative stress markers, genotoxicity and histopathological alterations.

Results

CP caused body weights loss and increase pulmonary tissue weight. The CP significantly increases oxidative stress markers and decreases tissue antioxidant enzyme levels. Furthermore, CP induced deleterious changes in the microanatomy of pulmonary tissue by rupturing the alveolar septa, thickening of alveolar walls, and injuring the cells with subsequent collapse of blood vessels. AHE pretreatment returned MDA, NO, H₂O₂ production and improved tissue antioxidant enzyme levels to near normalcy. The histological observations evidenced that AHE effectively rescues the lungs from CP-mediated oxidative damage. CP induction in rats also caused DNA fragmentation which was restored by AHE treatment. Our results suggest that pretreatment more significantly improve CP induced deleterious effects compared with post treatment indicating protective effect. Potency of AHE pretreatment is similar to silymarin.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that A. hydaspica AHE extract might serve as potential adjuvant that prevents CP persuaded pulmonary toxicity due to its intrinsic antioxidant potential and polyphenolic constituents.

Protective effects of curcumin against doxorubicin-induced toxicity and resistance: A review

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced toxicity and resistance are major obstacles in chemotherapeutic approaches. Despite effective in the treatment of numerous malignancies, some clinicians have voiced concern that DOX has the potential to cause debilitating consequences in organ tissues, especially the heart. The mechanisms of toxicity and resistance are respectively related to induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and up-regulation of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. Curcumin (CUR) with several biological and pharmacological properties is expected to restore DOX-mediated impairments to tissues. This review is intended to address the current knowledge on DOX adverse effects and CUR protective actions in the heart, kidneys, liver, brain, and reproductive organs. Coadministration of CUR and DOX is capable of ameliorating DOX toxicity pertained to antioxidant, apoptosis, autophagy, and mitochondrial permeability.

Nano-composites chitosan-curcumin synergistically inhibits the oxidative stress induced by toxic metal cadmium

The present study intends to compare the influence of pre-treatment with nanoparticles of curcumin (Cr-NPS), chitosan (Ch-NPS) and nanocomposites chitosan-curcumin (CC-NPS) on cadmium (Cd)-induced oxidative damage in the liver, kidneys, and blood indices in Swiss strain adult male mice. The pretreated mice with Cr-NPS, Ch-NPS, and CC-NPS were exposed to Cd (10mg/kg) for three weeks. The non-enzymatic Oxidative Stress (OS) indices like lipid peroxides (TBARS), reduced total glutathione (GSH), enzymatic OS indices like catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated together with some blood indices. Cadmium was able to induce a significant increase in TBARS and a significant decrease in GSH, GST, CAT and SOD levels in all the tissues, which were pretreated with nanocomposite. Furthermore, the blood indices like counts of red and white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin and packed cell volume were also depleted due to Cd exposure but remained unaffected and kept under normal levels in pretreated mice group. The results indicate that Cr-NPS, Ch-NPS, and CC-NPS may act as natural antioxidants and when compared among the three, CC-NPS appears to be the best antioxidant.

Chitosan-based polymer hybrids for thermo-responsive nanogel delivery of curcumin

The purpose of this study is to design and develop thermoresponsive nano-sized hydrogel particles from a natural polymer, chitosan, as smart material platforms for curcumin delivery. Chitosan was used as the backbone material to be grafted with poly-(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) using an EDC/NHS coupling reaction. The conjugated products were characterized by ¹H NMR and TGA. Chitosan-grafted pNIPAM (CS-g-pN) nanogels were prepared by a sonication method. The loading of curcumin into the CS-g-pN nanogels was achieved using an incubation method. Size, morphology of nanogels, amounts of curcumin loaded to the nanogels and cellular uptake were investigated by DLS, TEM, fluorescent spectroscopy and confocal microscopy techniques, respectively. A CellTiter-Blue^® cell viability assay was performed in NIH-3T3 and HeLa cells to assess the safety while MTT assay was carried out in MDA-231, Caco-2, HepG2, and HT-29 cells for determining cytotoxic effects. Results showed that CS-g-pN with 3-60% degree of modification were simply assembled into spherical nanogel particles with submicron sizes, in which curcumin was encapsulated. The thermoresponsive behavior of each CS-g-pN nanogel formulation differed due to the grafted pNIPAM length and density. The CS-g-pN nanogel formulations were non-toxic towards NIH-3T3 and HeLa cells. Each curcumin-loaded CS-g-pN nanogel formulation could be up taken into NIH-3T3 cell lines and showed the dose-dependent cytotoxicity against tested cell lines. Successful development of this curcumin-loaded nanogel will lead to advanced materials that can be functionalized and optimized for targeted therapy and controlled delivery of small molecules and/or biomolecules for biomedical applications.

Curcumin inhibits adenosine deaminase and arginase activities in cadmium-induced renal toxicity in rat kidney

In this study, the effect of enzymes involved in degradation of renal adenosine and l-arginine was investigated in rats exposed to cadmium (Cd) and treated with curcumin, the principal active phytochemical in turmeric rhizome. Animals were divided into six groups (n = 6): saline/vehicle, saline/curcumin 12.5 mg/kg, saline/curcumin 25 mg/kg, Cd/vehicle, Cd/curcumin 12.5 mg/kg, and Cd/curcumin 25 mg/kg. The results of this study revealed that the activities of renal adenosine deaminase and arginase were significantly increased in Cd-treated rats when compared with the control (p < 0.05). However, co-treatment with curcumin inhibits the activities of these enzymes compared with Cd-treated rats. Furthermore, Cd intoxication increased the levels of some renal biomarkers (serum urea, creatinine, and electrolytes) and malondialdehyde level with a concomitant decrease in functional sulfhydryl group and nitric oxide (NO). However, co-treatment with curcumin at 12.5 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg, respectively, increases the nonenzymatic antioxidant status and NO in the kidney, with a concomitant decrease in the levels of malondialdehyde and renal biomarkers. Therefore, our results reinforce the importance of adenosine deaminase and arginase activities in Cd poisoning conditions and suggest some possible mechanisms of action by which curcumin prevent Cd-induced renal toxicity in rats.

Piperine Augments the Protective Effect of Curcumin Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neurobehavioral and Neurochemical Deficits in Mice

The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effects of curcumin alone and in combination with piperine against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neurobehavioral and neurochemical deficits in the mice hippocampus. Mice were treated with curcumin (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) and piperine (20 mg/kg, p.o.) for 7 days followed by LPS (0.83 mg/kg, i.p.) administration. Animals exhibited anxiety and depressive-like phenotype after 3 and 24 h of LPS exposure, respectively. LPS administration increased the oxido-nitrosative stress as evident by elevated levels of malondialdehyde, nitrite, and depletion of glutathione level in the hippocampus. Furthermore, we found raised level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) in the hippocampus of LPS-treated mice. Pretreatment with curcumin alleviated LPS-induced neurobehavioral and neurochemical deficits. Furthermore, co-administration of curcumin with piperine significantly potentiated the neuroprotective effect of curcumin. These results demonstrate that piperine enhanced the neuroprotective effect of curcumin against LPS-induced neurobehavioral and neurochemical deficits.

Possible Role of Common Spices as a Preventive and Therapeutic Agent for Alzheimer's Disease

For centuries, spices have been consumed as food additives or medicinal agents. However, there is increasing evidence indicating the plant-based foods in regular diet may lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer disease. Spices, as one of the most commonly used plant-based food additives may provide more than just flavors, but as agents that may prevent or even halt neurodegenerative processes associated with aging. In this article, we review the role and application of five commonly used dietary spices including saffron turmeric, pepper family, zingiber, and cinnamon. Besides suppressing inflammatory pathways, these spices may act as antioxidant and inhibit acetyl cholinesterase and amyloid β aggregation. We summarized how spice-derived nutraceuticals mediate such different effects and what their molecular targets might be. Finally, some directions for future research are briefly discussed.

The in vivo anti-tumor effect of curcumin derivative (2E,6E)-2,6-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone (BHMC) on 4T1 breast cancer cells

BHMC possessedin vitroandin vivoantitumor effect on 4T1 triple negative breast cancer cells.

Protective Role of Curcumin against N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)-Induced Toxicity in Rats

The present investigation was aimed at studying the possible role of curcumin against N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)-induced toxicity in albino rats. Administration of NDEA to rats at a concentration of 0.1 mg/ml in drinking water ad libitum for 21 days produced toxicity in them, which was evident from histopathological changes in the rat livers, and increased levels of blood serum enzyme markers, i.e. aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase. In addition, the levels of oxidative stress markers like lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl (PCC), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity were elevated and the total glutathione (GSH) content was reduced in the livers. The administration of curcumin to rats at concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 mg/ml in drinking water along with 0.1 mg/ml of NDEA for 21 days effectively suppressed NDEA-induced toxicity and also resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in the levels of blood serum enzyme markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH). Moreover, LPO, PCC, and GST activity were reduced and the GSH level was increased upon the administration of curcumin along with NDEA. The results obtained for the comet assay in rat hepatocytes and blood lymphocytes showed a significant dose-dependent decrease in the mean tail length. The micronucleus assay performed on rat hepatocytes also showed a dose-dependent reduction in the frequency of micronucleated cells along with curcumin administration. These results suggest that curcumin has a protective role against NDEA-induced toxicity in albino rats.

Inhibition of human anthracycline reductases by emodin - A possible remedy for anthracycline resistance

The clinical application of anthracyclines, like daunorubicin and doxorubicin, is limited by two factors: dose-related cardiotoxicity and drug resistance. Both have been linked to reductive metabolism of the parent drug to their metabolites daunorubicinol and doxorubicinol, respectively. These metabolites show significantly less anti-neoplastic properties as their parent drugs and accumulate in cardiac tissue leading to chronic cardiotoxicity. Therefore, we aimed to identify novel and potent natural inhibitors for anthracycline reductases, which enhance the anticancer effect of anthracyclines by preventing the development of anthracycline resistance. Human enzymes responsible for the reductive metabolism of daunorubicin were tested for their sensitivity towards anthrachinones, in particular emodin and anthraflavic acid. Intense inhibition kinetic data for the most effective daunorubicin reductases, including IC50- and Ki-values, the mode of inhibition, as well as molecular docking, were compiled. Subsequently, a cytotoxicity profile and the ability of emodin to reverse daunorubicin resistance were determined using multiresistant A549 lung cancer and HepG2 liver cancer cells. Emodin potently inhibited the four main human daunorubicin reductases in vitro. Further, we could demonstrate that emodin is able to synergistically sensitize human cancer cells towards daunorubicin at clinically relevant concentrations. Therefore, emodin may yield the potential to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of anthracyclines by preventing anthracycline resistance via inhibition of the anthracycline reductases. In symphony with its known pharmacological properties, emodin might be a compound of particular interest in the management of anthracycline chemotherapy efficacy and their adverse effects.

Adriamycin-induced oxidative stress is prevented by mixed hydro-alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa and Curcuma longa in rat kidney

OBJECTIVE

Inflammation and oxidative stress is considered to have a crucial role in induction of nephropathy. Curcuma longa (C. longa) and Nigella sativa (N. sativa) have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study was designed to investigate the effect of mixed hydro-alcoholic extract of N.sativa and C. longa on the oxidative stress induced by Adriamycin (ADR) in rat kidney.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animals were divided into 6 groups: control (CO), ADR, Adriamycin+ Vitamin C (ADR+VIT C), C. longa extract+ Adriamycin (C.LE+ADR), N. sativa extract+ Adriamycin (N.SE+ADR) and C. longa extract+ N. sativa extract + Adriamycin (N.S+C.L+ADR). ADR (5mg/kg) was injected intravenously, whereas VITC (100mg/kg) and extract of C. longa (1000mg/kg) and N. sativa (200mg/kg) were administrated orally. Finally, the renal tissue, urine and blood samples were collected and submitted to measure of redox markers, osmolarity and renal index.

RESULTS

The renal content of total thiol and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity significantly decreased and Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration increased in Adriamycin group compared to control group. The renal content of total thiol and SOD activity significantly enhanced and MDA concentration reduced in treated-mixed extract of C. longa and N. sativa along with ADR group compared to ADR group. The mixed extract did not restore increased renal index percentage induced by ADR. There also was no significant difference in urine and serum osmolarity between the groups.

CONCLUSION

hydro-alcoholic extracts of N.sativa and C.longa led to an improvement in ADR-induced oxidative stress and mixed administration of the extracts enhanced the aforementioned therapeutic effect.