Resveratrol protects against isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction in rats through VEGF-B/AMPK/eNOS/NO signalling pathway

Resveratrol attenuates the priapism phenotype in sickle cell mice by restoring NO-cGMP-PDE5 signaling and reducing NADPH oxidase 2 expression

The pathogenesis of priapism in sickle cell disease (SCD) is closely linked to oxidative stress and reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) in penile tissue. Resveratrol, a potent natural antioxidant, has demonstrated protective effects in various vascular disorders. To evaluate the therapeutic effects of resveratrol on priapism, oxidative stress markers, and NO-cGMP signaling in the penile tissue of transgenic SCD mice. Male wild-type (C57BL/6) and transgenic SCD mice were treated with resveratrol (100 mg/kg/day, gavage) or vehicle for 2 weeks. Functional studies were conducted on CC strips mounted in organ baths to assess relaxation responses to acetylcholine (ACh), sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and nitrergic stimulation (electrical field stimulation, EFS). The oxidative stress markers (NOX-2, 4-HNE, and 3-NT), cGMP levels, and the mRNA expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) were evaluated. Resveratrol treatment decreased exaggerated ACh-, SNP-, and EFS-induced relaxation responses in SCD mice. It also reduced oxidative stress markers (NOX-2, 4-HNE, and 3-NT) and normalized eNOS and PDE5 mRNA expression in the CC of SCD mice. Additionally, cGMP levels in the CC were significantly increased by resveratrol treatment. These effects were specific to SCD mice and not observed in wild-type mice. In conclusion, resveratrol reduces oxidative stress and restores NO-cGMP signaling in the penile tissue, reducing the exaggerated cavernosal relaxation characteristic of priapism in SCD. These findings highlight resveratrol as a promising therapeutic candidate for managing priapism in patients with SCD.

Regulatory effects of resveratrol on nitric oxide signaling in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular illnesses are multifactorial disorders and represent the primary reasons for death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. As a signaling molecule, nitric oxide (NO) is extremely permeable across cellular membranes owing to its unique molecular features, like its small molecular size, lipophilicity, and free radical properties. Some of the biological effects of NO are vasodilation, inhibition in the growth of vascular smooth muscle cells, and functional regulation of cardiac cells. Several therapeutic approaches have been tested to increase the production of NO or some downstream NO signaling pathways. The health benefits of red wine are typically attributed to the polyphenolic phytoalexin, resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), which is found in several plant species. Resveratrol has beneficial cardiovascular properties, some of which are mediated through endothelial nitric oxide synthase production (eNOS). Resveratrol promotes NO generation from eNOS through various methods, including upregulation of eNOS expression, activation in the enzymatic activity of eNOS, and reversal of eNOS uncoupling. Additionally, by reducing of oxidative stress, resveratrol inhibits the formation of superoxide and inactivation NO, increasing NO bioavailability. This review discusses the scientific literature on resveratrol's beneficial impact on NO signaling and how this effect improves the function of vascular endothelium.

Development of optimized resveratrol/piperine-loaded phytosomal nanocomplex for isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction treatment

Cardiovascular disease is a significant and ever-growing concern, causing high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Conventional therapy is often very precarious and requires long-term usage. Several phytochemicals, including Resveratrol (RSV) and Piperine (PIP), possess significant cardioprotection and may be restrained in clinical settings due to inadequate pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, this study strives to develop an optimized RSV phytosomes (RSVP) and RSV phytosomes co-loaded with PIP (RPP) via solvent evaporation method using Box-Behnken design to enhance the pharmacokinetic properties in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI). The optimized particle size (20.976 ± 0.39 and 176.53 ± 0.88 nm), zeta potential (-33.33 ± 1.5 and -48.7 ± 1.6 mV), drug content (84.57 ± 0.9 and 87.16 ± 0.6%), and %EE (70.56 ± 0.7 and 67.60 ± 0.57%) of the prepared RSVP and RPP, respectively demonstrated enhanced solubility and control release in diffusion media. The oral administration of optimized RSVP and RPP in myocardial infarction-induced rats exhibited significant (p < 0.001) improvement in heart rate, ECG, biomarker, anti-oxidant levels, and no inflammation than pure RSV. The pharmacokinetic assessment on healthy Wistar rats exhibited prolonged circulation (>24 h) of RSVP and RPP compared to free drug/s. The enhanced ability of RSVP and RPP to penetrate bio-membranes and enter the systemic circulation renders them a more promising strategy for mitigating MI.

Resveratrol as an Anti-inflammatory Agent in Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol is a non-flavonoid polyphenol that shows promise in reducing pro-inflammatory factors and maintaining endothelial function, which hints at its potential role in slowing atherosclerosis and preventing acute coronary events.

OBJECTIVE

To study the cardioprotective effects of resveratrol on inflammatory mediators and endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

A thorough search was conducted in databases (Cochrane Library, ProQuest, PubMed, LILACS, ScienceDirect, Springer, Taylor&Francis, CNKI, Wanfang, and Weipu) until September 24, 2023. The vasopro-inflammatory mediators, endothelial function and outcomes related to cardiovascular events were observed. Titles and abstracts were assessed, and bias was evaluated with Cochrane RoB 2.0. Heterogeneity of results was explored by meta-regression, certainty of evidence was assessed by the GRADE system, and conclusive evidence was enhanced by trial sequence analysis.

RESULTS

Ten randomized controlled trials and 3 animal studies investigated resveratrol's impact on inflammatory mediators and endothelial function. In primary prevention studies, meta-analysis showed a significant reduction (95% CI: -0.73 to -0.20; P=0.0005) in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression with resveratrol, demonstrating a dose-dependent relationship. No significant difference was observed in interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression with P=0.58 for primary prevention and P=0.57 for secondary prevention. Vascular endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression was significantly increased after resveratrol pre-treatment following CAD events. Secondary prevention studies yielded no significant results; however, meta-regression identified associations between age, hypertension, and lower doses with the extent of TNF-α alterations. High certainty of evidence supported TNF-α reduction, while evidence for IL-6 reduction and eNOS elevation was deemed low.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol reduces TNF-α in individuals at risk for CAD, specifically 15 mg per day. However, its usefulness in patients with confirmed CAD is limited due to factors such as age, high blood pressure, and insufficient dosage. Due to the small sample size, the reduction of IL-6 is inconclusive. Animal studies suggest that resveratrol enhances endothelial function by increasing eNOS. (PROSPERO registration No. CRD42023465234).

Sitagliptin Ameliorates Creb5/lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271-Mediated Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction in Obese Mice

PURPOSE

Obesity is mediated by the changes in dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation, leading to vascular endothelial dysfunction. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors prevent the development of endothelial dysfunction. However, the underlying mechanism still remains largely unclear. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), one class of non-coding small RNAs, have been shown to exert a regulatory impact on the endothelial function in obesity. This study aimed to investigate whether the elevation of GLP-1 by a DPP-4 inhibitor sitagliptin improved vascular endothelial function by modulating lncRNAs in obese mice and to clarify the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet for 4 months to induce obesity and some obese mice were treated with sitagliptin for the last 1 month. Levels of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in plasma were detected by ELISA. LncRNA expression profile was analyzed via microarray. Aortic relaxations were examined by myograph. Protein expressions and phosphorylations were determined using western blot. The differentially expressed lncRNAs were validated using qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

Obese mice exhibited increased levels of TC and LDL, decreased concentrations of HDL and GLP-1 in plasma, and impaired aortic endothelium-dependent relaxations; such effects could be reversed by sitagliptin. Moreover, the altered expression profile of lncRNAs in the obese mouse aortae could be modulated by sitagliptin. Consistent with microarray analysis, qRT-PCR also revealed that lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 was up-regulated in obese mouse aortae and aortic endothelial cells (ECs), which could be down-regulated by sitagliptin. Creb5 silencing reduced lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 in obese mouse ECs. Knockdown of either Creb5 or lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 restored the activation of AMPK/eNOS in obese mouse ECs. Furthermore, sitagliptin also suppressed Creb5 and lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 and increased the phosphorylations of AMPK and eNOS in obese mice.

CONCLUSION

Creb5/lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 mediated vascular endothelial dysfunction through inhibiting AMPK/eNOS cascade in obesity. Elevation of GLP-1 by sitagliptin possibly improved endothelial function by suppressing Creb5/lncRNA ENSMUST00000213271 and subsequently restoring AMPK/eNOS activation in obese mice. This study will provide new evidence for the benefits of GLP-1 against vasculopathy in obesity.

A novel histone deacetylase inhibitor Se-SAHA attenuates isoproterenol-induced heart failure via antioxidative stress and autophagy inhibition

Heart failure is associated with histone deacetylase (HDAC) regulation of gene expression, the inhibition of which is thought to be beneficial for heart failure therapy. Here, we explored the cardioprotective effects and underlying mechanism of a novel selenium-containing HDAC inhibitor, Se-SAHA, on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced heart failure. We found that pretreatment with Se-SAHA attenuated ISO-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs). Se-SAHA significantly attenuated the generation of ISO-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and restored the expression levels of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in vitro. Furthermore, Se-SAHA pretreatment prevented the accumulation of autophagosomes. Se-SAHA reversed the high expression of HDAC1 and HDAC6 induced by ISO incubation. However, after the addition of the HDAC agonist, the effect of Se-SAHA on blocking autophagy was inhibited. Using ISO-induced mouse models, cardiac ventricular contractile dysfunction, hypertrophy, and fibrosis was reduced treated by Se-SAHA. In addition, Se-SAHA inhibited HDAC1 and HDAC6 overexpression in ISO-treated mice. Se-SAHA treatment significantly increased the activity of SOD2 and improved the ability to eliminate free radicals. Se-SAHA hindered the excessive levels of the microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)-II and Beclin-1 in heart failure mice. Collectively, our results indicate that Se-SAHA exerts cardio-protection against ISO-induced heart failure via antioxidative stress and autophagy inhibition.

Resveratrol Inhibits Zinc Deficiency-Induced Mitophagy and Exerts Cardiac Cytoprotective Effects

Resveratrol (Res) possesses various beneficial effects, including cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant properties. However, the precise mechanism underlying these effects remains unclear. Here we investigated the protective effects of resveratrol on cardiomyocytes, focusing on the role of Zn2+ and mitophagy. Using the MTT/lactate dehydrogenase assay, we found that addition of a zinc chelator TPEN for 4 h induced mitophagy and resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability, increased cytotoxicity, and apoptosis in H9c2 cells. Notably, resveratrol effectively mitigated these detrimental effects caused by TPEN. Similarly, Res inhibited the TPEN-induced expression of mitophagy-associated proteins, namely P62, LC3, NIX, TOM20, PINK1, and Parkin. The inhibitory action of resveratrol on mitophagy was abrogated by the mitophagy inhibitor 3-MA. Additionally, we discovered that silencing of the Mfn2 gene could reverse the inhibitory effects of resveratrol on mitophagy via the AMPK-Mfn2 axis, thereby preventing the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Collectively, our data suggest that Res can safeguard mitochondria protection by impeding mitophagy and averting mPTP opening through the AMPK-Mfn2 axis in myocardial cells.

The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications

The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.

Resveratrol can improve spinal cord injury by activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often induces severe sensory and motor dysfunction. Oxidative stress is an important pathophysiological process of secondary SCI, and its inhibition could facilitate the alleviation of the injury. Resveratrol is a natural plant polyphenol compound that has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It can inhibit oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway. In this report, we analyze the antioxidant effect of resveratrol in SCI, clarify the specific mechanism of action and provide a theoretical basis for the clinical employment of resveratrol for SCI.

Molecular mechanisms mediate roflumilast protective effect against isoprenaline-induced myocardial injury

BACKGROUND

Myocardial necrosis is one of the most common cardiac and pathological diseases. Unfortunately, using the available medical treatment is not sufficient to rescue the myocardium. So that, we aimed in our model to study the possible cardioprotective effect of roflumilast (ROF) in an experimental model of induced myocardial injury using a toxic dose of isoprenaline (ISO) and detecting the role of vascular endothelial growth factor/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (VEGF/eNOS) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate/cyclic adenosine monophosphate/ sirtuin1 (cGMP/cAMP/SIRT1) signaling cascade.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animals were divided into five groups; control, ISO given group (150 mg/kg) i.p. on the 4th and 5th day, 3 ROF co-administered groups in different doses (0.25, 0.5, 1 mg/kg/day) for 5 days.

RESULTS

Our data revealed that ISO could induce cardiac toxicity as manifested by significant increases in troponin I, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and cleaved caspase-3 with toxic histopathological changes. Meanwhile, there were significant decreases in reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), VEGF, eNOS, cGMP, cAMP and SIRT1. However, co-administration of ROF showed significant improvement and normalization of ISO induced cardiac damage.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that ROF successfully reduced ISO induced myocardial injury and this could be attributed to modulation of PDE4, VEGF/eNOS and cGMP/cAMP/SIRT1 signaling pathways with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

The protective role of resveratrol in diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wounds are severe complications of diabetes mellitus (DM), which have difficulty in healing. Although diverse treatments have been used, the prognosis of diabetic wounds is not satisfactory; therefore, an effective therapy to accelerate diabetic wound healing is urgently needed. In our review, we summarized that resveratrol can promote diabetic wound healing by protecting against hyperglycemia, inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular pathology, infection, and peripheral neuropathy. To clarify it clearly, we highlighted its underlying mechanisms of protective effects of resveratrol against diabetic wounds, and high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish its clinical efficacy. Otherwise, with the development of material sciences, resveratrol can exert its therapeutic effectiveness efficiently; however, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm the clinical efficacy of resveratrol on diabetic wounds.

Potential Role of Natural Antioxidants in Countering Reperfusion Injury in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Stroke

Stroke and acute myocardial infarction are leading causes of mortality worldwide. The latter accounts for approximately 9 million deaths annually. In turn, ischemic stroke is a significant contributor to adult physical disability globally. While reperfusion is crucial for tissue recovery, it can paradoxically exacerbate damage through oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and cell death. Therefore, it is imperative to explore diverse approaches aimed at minimizing ischemia/reperfusion injury to enhance clinical outcomes. OS primarily arises from an excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or decreased endogenous antioxidant potential. Natural antioxidant compounds can counteract the injury mechanisms linked to ROS. While promising preclinical results, based on monotherapies, account for protective effects against tissue injury by ROS, translating these models into human applications has yielded controversial evidence. However, since the wide spectrum of antioxidants having diverse chemical characteristics offers varied biological actions on cell signaling pathways, multitherapy has emerged as a valuable therapeutic resource. Moreover, the combination of antioxidants in multitherapy holds significant potential for synergistic effects. This study was designed with the aim of providing an updated overview of natural antioxidants suitable for preventing myocardial and cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injuries.

Polyphenols and Triterpenes Combination in an In Vitro Model of Cardiac Damage: Protective Effects

Olive products contain high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids as well as other minor components such as triterpenic alcohols and other pentacyclic triterpenes, which together form the main triterpenes of virgin olive oil. Olive fruits and leaves contain significant amounts of hydrophilic and lipophilic bioactives including flavones, phenolic acids and phenolic alcohols, amongst others. Several studies have shown the benefits of these substances on the cardiovascular system. Regardless, little is known about the specific combination of bioactive compounds in cardiovascular health. Thus, we aimed to test the combination of a triterpenes (TT70) and a polyphenols (HT60) olive oil bioactive extract in H9c2 cells under stress conditions: LPS and H2O2 stimulation. To evaluate the effectiveness of the combination, we measured cell viability, superoxide production and protein expression of caspase 3, eNOS, peNOS, TNF-α and Il-6. Overall, cells stimulated with LPS or H2O2 and co-incubated with the combination of triterpenes and polyphenols had increased cell survival, lower levels of superoxide anion, lower protein expression of eNOS and higher expression of peNOS, increased protein expression of SOD-1 and lower protein expression of TNF-α and Il-6. The specific combination of HT60+TT70 is of great interest for further study as a possible treatment for cardiovascular damage.

Polygonum orientale L. Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia-Induced Injury via Activation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway

Although Polygonum orientale L. (PO) has a beneficial effect on treatment of myocardial ischemia (MI), its mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the pharmacological mechanism of PO against MI through MAPK signaling pathways. Firstly, the therapeutic effect of PO was evaluated for treatment of MI mice. Using Western blot and immunohistochemistry, the influence of PO on MAPK signaling pathways and cell apoptosis was investigated. Subsequently, one key pathway (ERK) of MAPK signaling pathways was screened out, on which PO posed the most obvious impact. Finally, an inhibitor of ERK1/2 was utilized to further verify the regulatory effect of PO on the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. It was found that PO could reduce the elevation of the ST segment; injury of heart tissue; the activity of LDH, CK, NOS, cNOS and iNOS and the levels of NO, BNP, TNF-α and IL-6. It is notable that PO could significantly modulate the protein content of p-ERK/ERK in mice suffering from MI but hardly had an effect on p-JNK/JNK and p-p38/p38. Additionally, the expressions of bax, caspase3 and caspase9 were inhibited in heart tissue in the PO-treated group. To evaluate whether ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059) could block the effect of PO on treatment of MI, both PO and PD98059 were given to mice with MI. It was discovered that the inhibitor indeed could significantly reverse the regulatory effects of PO on the above indicators, indicating that PO could regulate p-ERK/ERK. This study provides experimental evidence that PO extenuates MI injury, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and inflammation by activating the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.

Stilbene-based derivatives as potential inhibitors of trimethylamine (TMA)-lyase affect gut microbiota in coronary heart disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is defined by atherosclerosis, which may result in stenosis or blockage of the arterial cavity, leading to ischemic cardiac diseases such as angina and myocardial infarction (MI). Accumulating evidence indicates that the gut microbiota play a critical role in the initiation and progression of CHD. The gut microbial metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is intimately linked to the pathophysiology of CHD. The hepatic flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) convert trimethylamine (TMA) to TMAO. As a result, it is critical to prevent TMA generation. Stilbenes could reduce cardiovascular disease mortality. Twelve stilbenes with inhibitory activity against TMA-lyase were compiled and evaluated in this study. Docking results showed Resveratroloside had the highest Vina score, indicating that it was the most active and might be employed as a lead molecule for further structural modification.

The Role of VEGF Family in Lipid Metabolism

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family plays a major role in tumors and ophthalmic diseases. However, increasingly more data reported its potential in regulating lipids. With its biological functions mainly expressed in lymphatic vessels, some factors in the families, like VEGF-A and VEGF-C, have been proved to regulate intestinal absorption of lipids by affecting chylous ducts. Other effects, including regulating lipoprotein lipase (LPL), endothelial lipase (EL), and recombinant syndecan 1 (SDC1), have also been confirmed. However, given the scant-related studies, further research should be conducted to examine the concrete mechanisms and provide pragmatic ways to apply them in the clinic. The VEGF family may treat dyslipidemia in specific ways that are different from common methods and concurrently contribute to the treatment of other metabolic diseases, like diabetes and obesity.

Therapeutic Potential of VEGF-B in Coronary Heart Disease and Heart Failure: Dream or Vision?

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death around the world. Based on the roles of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family members to regulate blood and lymphatic vessels and metabolic functions, several therapeutic approaches have been attempted during the last decade. However proangiogenic therapies based on classical VEGF-A have been disappointing. Therefore, it has become important to focus on other VEGFs such as VEGF-B, which is a novel member of the VEGF family. Recent studies have shown the very promising potential of the VEGF-B to treat CHD and heart failure. The aim of this review article is to present the role of VEGF-B in endothelial biology and as a potential therapeutic agent for CHD and heart failure. In addition, key differences between the VEGF-A and VEGF-B effects on endothelial functions are demonstrated.

Cardioprotective effect of Hrudroga Chintamani Rasa in isoproterenol induced cardiotoxicity in male Sprague Dawley rats

Purpose

Ayurvedic system, a traditional medicinal system has mentioned a preparation Bruhat Vata Chintamani Rasa (Suvarnayukta) for management of heart diseases. Hrudroga Chintamani Rasa (HCR) is a formulation containing Bruhat Vata Chintamani Rasa and a few additional ingredients having beneficial effects in heart diseases. The present study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective activity of the Hrudroga Chintamani Rasa in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction in rats.

Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats were treated with HCR at a dose of 56.16 and 112.32 mg/kg for 30 days. Animals received ISO (85 mg/kg. s.c.) on 28th and 29th day at an interval of 24 h.

Result

Disease control animals treated with HCR at a dose of 56.16 mg/kg and 112.32 mg/kg to rats showed a significant reduction in elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine phosphokinase MB (CK-MB), and prevented loss of depleted antioxidant enzymes from the cardiac tissue. ISO-altered electrocardiogram pattern and haemodynamic parameters were also brought about to normal by treatment with HCR. HCR treatment also improved the levels of 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) which have potent role in antioxidant defence mechanism. Histopathological findings also showed HCR treatment prevented cardiac tissue from damage.

Conclusion

HCR treatment showed a significant cardioprotective effect in ISO-induced cardiotoxicity in rats probably because of the potent antioxidant activity.

Supplementary information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-022-01012-4.

Cytokine storm: behind the scenes of the collateral circulation after acute myocardial infarction

At least 17 million people die from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) every year, ranking it first among causes of death of human beings, and its incidence is gradually increasing. Typical characteristics of AMI include acute onset and poor prognosis. At present, there is no satisfactory treatment, but development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) can be key to improving prognosis. Recent research indicates that the levels of cytokines, including those related to promoting inflammatory responses and angiogenesis, increase after the onset of AMI. In the early phase of AMI, cytokines play a vital role in inducing development of collateral circulation. However, when myocardial infarction is decompensated, cytokine secretion increases greatly, which may induce a cytokine storm and worsen prognosis. Cytokines can regulate the activation of a variety of signal pathways and form a complex network, which may promote or inhibit the establishment of collateral circulation. We searched for published articles in PubMed and Google Scholar, employing the keyword "acute myocardial infarction", "coronary collateral circulation" and "cytokine storm", to clarify the relationship between AMI and a cytokine storm, and how a cytokine storm affects the growth of collateral circulation after AMI, so as to explore treatment methods based on cytokine agents or inhibitors used to improve prognosis of AMI.

Thymoquinone regulates nitric oxide synthase enzymes and receptor-interacting serine-threonine kinases in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarcted rats

This study aims to investigate the protective effects of thymoquinone (THQ) in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. Thirty-two rats were divided into four equal groups. Control, THQ; Intragastric(ig) by dissolved 20 mg/kg in 500 μl olive oil at 24-h intervals for 7 days, ISO; On the 6th and 7th days of the experiment, it was dissolved in 1 ml distilled water, 100 mg/kg, subcutaneously(sb), THQ + ISO; THQ was given 20 mg/kg at 24-h intervals for 7 days, 100 mg/kg was given on days 6 and 7 of the ISO experiment. At the end of the experiment, blood and heart tissues were taken and histological, Western blot and biochemical analyzes were performed. In the ISO group, cardiomyocyte damage and large necrotic areas were observed. While neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) decreased, inducible NOS (iNOS) and endothelial NOS (eNOS) expression increased. Receptor-interacting serine-threonine kinase (RIP/RIPK) RIP1 and RIP3 protein levels were increased. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatin-kinase (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTn-I) levels were increased. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels were decreased. THQ caused the reduction of necrotic areas caused by ISO. NOS regulated enzyme levels. Increased ISO-induced decreased RIP1 and RIP3 expressions. THQ regulated the biochemical parameter levels. ISO triggers MI-induced necrosis through NOS enzymes by causing severe histological changes in heart tissue. THQ, on the other hand, reveals that it can be an important antinecrotic agent in the prevention of MI-induced damage by regulating both NOS enzyme levels and necrosis markers.

Dioscin alleviates myocardial infarction injury via regulating BMP4/NOX1-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Dioscin, a steroidal saponin natural product, has various pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid-lowering. However, little is known about its effects on myocardial infarction (MI) injury. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and possible mechanisms of dioscin.

METHODS

We evaluated protective effects of Dioscin on HL-1 cells after hypoxia based on MTT and ROS in vitro. In vivo, we ligated left anterior descending (LAD) of C57BL/6 mice to establish MI model and assess serum levels of LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, SOD, MDA and CAT treated by dioscin. In addition, myocardial damages were reflected by H&E, masson and ultrastructural examination and Electrocardiograph (ECG) was detected in MI mice. And the BMP4/NOX1 pathway was measured by western blotting, immunofluorescence assay and Real-time PCR. Furthermore, to investigate cardio-protective effects of dioscin via targeting BMP4, we transfected siBMP4 into HL-1 cells in vitro and injected BMP4 siRNA though tail veins in vivo.

RESULTS

In vitro, dioscin significantly increased the viability of HL-1 cells and inhibited ROS level under hypoxia. In vivo, dioscin markedly reduced the elevation of ST segment and alleviated myocardial infarct area in mice. In terms of serology, dioscin evidently decreased LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, MDA levels, and increased SOD level. In addition, dioscin improved the pathological status of myocardial tissue and restrained the production of collagen fibers. Mechanism study proved that dioscin notablely regulated the levels of Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, p-NF-κB, nNF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 by down-regulating the protein levels of BMP4 and NOX1 against oxidative stress and inflammation. Further investigation showed that siBMP4 transfection diminished hypoxia and MI-induced oxidative and inflammation injury. The transfection decreased LDH, CK-MB and cTnI levels, improved ischemia T-wave inversion and reduced striated muscle necrosis, nucleus dissolution, collagen fibrosis and mitochondrial swelling in mice. In addition, siBMP4 decreased ROS and MDA levels, increased SOD and CAT levels and down-regulated mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Moreover, BMP4, NOX1 and nNF-κB protein levels were decreased and Nrf2 levels were increased by siBMP4.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirmed that dioscin showed an outstanding anti-myocardial infarction effect via regulating BMP4/NOX1-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation, which has a promising application value and development prospect against MI injury in the future.

Reducing VEGFB accelerates NAFLD and insulin resistance in mice via inhibiting AMPK signaling pathway

Objective

Vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB) was regarded to improve lipid metabolism and reduce obesity-related hyperlipidemia. Whether VEGFB participates in lipid metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been clear yet. This study investigated the involvement of VEGFB in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance via the AMPK signaling pathway in NAFLD.

Methods

We constructed the animal and cell model of NAFLD after VEGFB gene knockout to detect liver damage and metabolism in NAFLD. Bioinformatics analysis of VEGFB and the AMPK signaling pathway relative genes to verify the differential proteins. And mRNA levels of NAFLD fatty acid metabolism-related genes were detected.

Results

After the systemic VEGFB knockout mice were fed with high fat, the body fat, serum lipoprotein, NAFLD score, and insulin resistance were increased. Animal and cell experiments showed that the expression levels of phosphorylated proteins of CaMKK2 and AMPK decreased, the expression of proteins related to AMPK/ACC/CPT1 signaling pathway decreased, and the target genes CPT1α and Lcad decreased accordingly, reducing fatty acid oxidation in hepatocyte mitochondria; The expression of AMPK/SREBP1/Scd1 signaling pathway relative proteins increased, ACC1 and FAS increased correspondingly, which increased lipid synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Conclusion

VEGFB can participate in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance of NAFLD through the AMPK signaling pathway.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03540-2.

Resveratrol Attenuate Myocardial Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis Via Inducing KAT5/GPX4 in Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a coronary artery-related disease and ranks as the leading cause of sudden death globally. Resveratrol (Res) is a bioactive component and has presented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. However, the effect of Res on ferroptosis during MI progression remains elusive. Here, we aimed to explore the function of Res in the regulation of ferroptosis and myocardial injury in MI. We observed that the treatment of Res attenuated the MI-related myocardium injury and fibrosis in the rats. The expression of collagen 1 and α-SMA was induced in MI rats, in which the treatment of Res could decrease the expression. Treatment of Res suppressed the levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in MI rats. The GSH levels were inhibited and MDA, lipid ROS, and Fe²⁺ levels were induced in MI rats, in which the treatment of Res could reverse the phenotypes. Meanwhile, the expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11 was reduced in MI rats, while the treatment of Res could rescue the expression in the model. Meanwhile, Res relieved oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Importantly, Res repressed OGD-induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis in vitro. Mechanically, we identified that Res was able to enhance GPX4 expression by inducing KAT5 expression. We confirmed that KAT5 alleviated OGD-induced cardiomyocyte injury and ferroptosis. The depletion of KAT5 or GPX4 could reverse the effect of Res on OGD-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Thus, we concluded that Res attenuated myocardial injury by inhibiting ferroptosis via inducing KAT5/GPX4 in myocardial infarction. Our finding provides new evidence of the potential therapeutic effect of Res on MI by targeting ferroptosis.

Resveratrol and regular exercise may attenuate hypertension-induced cardiac dysfunction through modulation of cellular stress responses

AIMS

Hypertension is one of the major causes of cardiac damage. In this study, the effects of resveratrol supplementation and regular exercise on hypertension-induced cellular stress responses of myocardium were compared.

MAIN METHODS

Hypertension was induced in male Wistar rats by deoxycorticosterone-acetate + salt administration for 12 weeks. Resveratrol and regular exercise were applied for the last six weeks. In addition to biochemical and molecular examinations, isoprenaline, phenylephrine and, acetylcholine-mediated contractions and sinus rate were recorded in the isolated cardiac tissues.

KEY FINDINGS

Resveratrol and regular exercise reduced systolic blood pressure in hypertensive rats. The altered adrenergic and cholinergic responses of the right atrium and left papillary muscles in hypertension were separately improved by resveratrol and regular exercise. Resveratrol and regular exercise decreased plasma and cardiac total antioxidant capacity and, augmented the expression of antioxidant genes in hypertensive rats. While regular exercise restored the increase in p-PERK expression associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress and decrease in mitophagic marker PINK1 expression, resveratrol only ameliorated PINK1 expression in hypertensive rats. Resveratrol and exercise training suppressed hypertension-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation by reversing the increase in NLRP3, p-NF-κB expression and the mature-IL-1β/pro-IL-1β and cleaved-caspase-1/pro-caspase-1 ratio. Resveratrol and exercise enhanced mRNA expression of caspase-3, bax, and bcl-2 involved in the apoptotic pathway, but attenuated phosphorylation of stress-related mitogenic proteins p38 and JNK induced by hypertension.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study demonstrated the protective effect of resveratrol and exercise on hypertension-induced cardiac dysfunction by modulating cellular stress responses including oxidative stress, ER stress, mitophagy, NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation, and mitogenic activation.

Thymoquinone attenuates isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction by inhibiting cytochrome C and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression

Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main active constituent of Nigella sativa. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of TQ on apoptotic parameters and MMP-9 expression in isoproterenol (ISP)-induced myocardial infarction (MI). TQ was given once daily for 7 days at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg orally with ISP (86 mg/kg; s.c.) administered on the sixth and seventh days. TQ pre-treatment protected against ISP-induced MI as approved by normalisation of electrocardiogram (ECG) and b (CK)-MB, minimal histopathological changes, and reduction of the infarction size. Effects of TQ could be supported by its antioxidant activity, evidenced by the increase of cardiac reduced glutathione and total serum antioxidant capacity, and the inhibition of ISO-induced lipid peroxidation. TQ anti-inflammatory activity was associated with reduced expression of NF-κB and TNF-α. TQ ameliorated cardiomyocytes, apoptotic pathways by inhibiting both the intrinsic pathway, via reducing cytoplasmic cytochrome C, and the extrinsic pathway, by inhibiting TNF-α and caspases, and the effect of TQ was dose-dependent. Moreover, TQ reduced the expression of metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, which is considered as a prognostic marker of ventricular remodelling, recommending that TQ can be used as a possible supplement to minimise post-MI changes. So, we conclude that TQ antiapoptotic activity and the inhibitory modulation of MMP-9 expression contribute to TQ protective effects in MI. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the effect of TQ on cytochrome c activity and MMP-9 expression in MI.

Ecogeographic Conditions Dramatically Affect Trans-Resveratrol and Other Major Phenolics’ Levels in Wine at a Semi-Arid Area

Grapevines are susceptible and responsive to their surrounding environment. Factors such as climate region and terroir are known to affect polyphenolic compounds in wine and therefore, its quality. The uniqueness of the terroir in Israel is the variety of soil types and the climatic conditions, ranging from Mediterranean to arid climates. Thus, understanding the effects of climate on grapevine performance in Israel may be a test case for the effect of climate change on grapevine at other areas in the future. First, we present a preliminary survey (2012–2014) in different climate zones and terroirs, which showed that trans-resveratrol concentrations in Merlot and Shiraz were high, while those of Cabernet Sauvignon were significantly lower. A further comprehensive countrywide survey (2016) of Merlot wines from 62 vineyards (53 wineries) compared several phenolic compounds’ concentrations between five areas of different climate and terroir. Results show a connection between trans-resveratrol concentrations, variety, and terroir properties. Furthermore, we show that trans-resveratrol concentrations are strongly correlated to humidity levels at springtime, precipitation, and soil permeability. This work can be considered a glimpse into the possible alterations of wine composition in currently moderate-climate wine-growing areas.

Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 May Counteract Myocardial Infarction Induced by Isoprenaline in Rats

We revealed that the stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157, a useful peptide therapy against isoprenaline myocardial infarction, as well as against isoprenaline myocardial reinfarction, may follow the counteraction of the recently described occlusion-like syndrome, induced peripherally and centrally, which was described for the first time in isoprenaline-treated rats. BPC 157 (10 ng/kg, 10 µg/kg i.p.), L-NAME (5 mg/kg i.p.), and L-arginine (200 mg/kg i.p.) were given alone or together at (i) 30 min before or, alternatively, (ii) at 5 min after isoprenaline (75 or 150 mg/kg s.c.). At 30 min after isoprenaline 75 mg/kg s.c., we noted an early multiorgan failure (brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney and gastrointestinal lesions), thrombosis, intracranial (superior sagittal sinus) hypertension, portal and caval hypertension, and aortal hypotension, in its full presentation (or attenuated by BPC 157 therapy (given at 5 min after isoprenaline) via activation of the azygos vein). Further, we studied isoprenaline (75 or 150 mg/kg s.c.) myocardial infarction (1 challenge) and reinfarction (isoprenaline at 0 h and 24 h, 2 challenges) in rats (assessed at the end of the subsequent 24 h period). BPC 157 reduced levels of all necrosis markers, CK, CK-MB, LDH, and cTnT, and attenuated gross (no visible infarcted area) and histological damage, ECG (no ST-T ischemic changes), and echocardiography (preservation of systolic left ventricular function) damage induced by isoprenaline. Its effect was associated with a significant decrease in oxidative stress parameters and likely maintained NO system function, providing that BPC 157 interacted with eNOS and COX2 gene expression in a particular way and counteracted the noxious effect of the NOS-blocker, L-NAME.

The Role of the VEGF Family in Atherosclerosis Development and Its Potential as Treatment Targets

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, the crucial regulator of angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, lipid metabolism and inflammation, is involved in the development of atherosclerosis and further CVDs (cardiovascular diseases). This review discusses the general regulation and functions of VEGFs, their role in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis development and progression. These functions present the great potential of applying the VEGF family as a target in the treatment of atherosclerosis and related CVDs. In addition, we discuss several modern anti-atherosclerosis VEGFs-targeted experimental procedures, drugs and natural compounds, which could significantly improve the efficiency of atherosclerosis and related CVDs' treatment.

Potential of natural products in the treatment of myocardial infarction: focus on molecular mechanisms

Although conventional drugs are widely used in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD), they are being used less frequently due to concerns about possible side effects over the long term. There has been a renewed research interest in medicinal plant products, and their role in protecting the cardiovascular system and treating CVD, which are now being considered as potential alternatives to modern drugs. The most important mechanism causing damage to the myocardium after heart attack and reperfusion, is increased levels of free radicals and oxidative stress. Therefore, treatment approaches often focus on reducing free radicals or enhancing antioxidant defense mechanism. It has been previously reported that bioactive natural products can protect the heart muscle in myocardial infarction (MI). Since these compounds are readily available in fruits and vegetables, they could prevent the risk of MI if they are consumed daily. Although the benefits of a healthy diet are well known, many scientific studies have focused on whether pure natural compounds can prevent and treat MI. In this review we summarize the effects of curcumin, resveratrol, quercitin, berberine, and tanshinone on MI and CVD, and focus on their proposed molecular mechanisms of action.

Combating Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury with Micronutrients and Natural Compounds during Solid Organ Transplantation: Data of Clinical Trials and Lessons of Preclinical Findings

Although extended donor criteria grafts bear a higher risk of complications such as graft dysfunction, the exceeding demand requires to extent the pool of potential donors. The risk of complications is highly associated with ischemia-reperfusion injury, a condition characterized by high loads of oxidative stress exceeding antioxidative defense mechanisms. The antioxidative properties, along with other beneficial effects like anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic or antiarrhythmic effects of several micronutrients and natural compounds, have recently emerged increasing research interest resulting in various preclinical and clinical studies. Preclinical studies reported about ameliorated oxidative stress and inflammatory status, resulting in improved graft survival. Although the majority of clinical studies confirmed these results, reporting about improved recovery and superior organ function, others failed to do so. Yet, only a limited number of micronutrients and natural compounds have been investigated in a (large) clinical trial. Despite some ambiguous clinical results and modest clinical data availability, the vast majority of convincing animal and in vitro data, along with low cost and easy availability, encourage the conductance of future clinical trials. These should implement insights gained from animal data.

The Role of the VEGF Family in Coronary Heart Disease

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, the regulator of blood and lymphatic vessels, is mostly investigated in the tumor and ophthalmic field. However, the functions it enjoys can also interfere with the development of atherosclerosis (AS) and further diseases like coronary heart disease (CHD). The source, regulating mechanisms including upregulation and downregulation, target cells/tissues, and known functions about VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGF-C, and VEGF-D are covered in the review. VEGF-A can regulate angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and inflammation by binding with VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. VEGF-B can regulate angiogenesis, redox, and apoptosis by binding with VEGFR-1. VEGF-C can regulate inflammation, lymphangiogenesis, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and fibrogenesis by binding with VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3. VEGF-D can regulate lymphangiogenesis, angiogenesis, fibrogenesis, and apoptosis by binding with VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3. These functions present great potential of applying the VEGF family for treating CHD. For instance, angiogenesis can compensate for hypoxia and ischemia by growing novel blood vessels. Lymphangiogenesis can degrade inflammation by providing exits for accumulated inflammatory cytokines. Anti-apoptosis can protect myocardium from impairment after myocardial infarction (MI). Fibrogenesis can promote myocardial fibrosis after MI to benefit cardiac recovery. In addition, all these factors have been confirmed to keep a link with lipid metabolism, the research about which is still in the early stage and exact mechanisms are relatively obscure. Because few reviews have been published about the summarized role of the VEGF family for treating CHD, the aim of this review article is to present an overview of the available evidence supporting it and give hints for further research.

Resveratrol activates PI3K/AKT to reduce myocardial cell apoptosis and mitochondrial oxidative damage caused by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

Resveratrol is a kind of iPolyphenols widely existing in herbal medicine. Here we aim to investigate whether resveratrol can reduce the degree of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury and inhibit the development of oxidative stress, and elucidate the molecular mechanism of resveratrol in protecting myocardial cells. The primary rat cardiomyocytes were used to establish an ischemia/reperfusion model in vitro, and a series of routine biochemical experiments were conducted to explore the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of resveratrol in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Compared with that of the simulated ischemia-refusion (SIR) group, cell viability in the SIR and resveratrol co-treatment groups increased significantly (P < 0.001), the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase MB (CKMB) decreased, the positive rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cardiomyocytes decreased, and the concentration of catalase and glutathione peroxidase increased significantly (P < 0.001). Besides, resveratrol can activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. PI3K siRNA can inhibit the PI3K/AKT signaling mediated by resveratrol. The addition of resveratrol can significantly increase the activity of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduce the malondialdehyde (MDA), which indicates that the oxidative damage of mitochondria induced by resveratrol was significantly weakened. The mitochondrial functional changes induced by resveratrol can be reversed by PI3K siRNA. In conclusion, our study shows that resveratrol can reduce ROS in cardiomyocytes by PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation, and effectively inhibit the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, thus having a direct protective effect on cardiomyocytes under SR.

[Platelet-rich plasma alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) against acute myocardial ischemiareperfusion (IR) injury and the possible mechanism.

OBJECTIVE

Aortic blood samples were collected from 10 SD rats to prepare PRP, in which the concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were measured. Cell models of IR injury were established in primary cultures of neonatal SD rat cardiomyocytes by exposing the cells to 3 h of hypoxia. The cells were then reoxygenated and co-cultured with 1%, 5%, 10%, and 20% volume of PRP for 12 h, and the changes in cell viability was assessed. Immunofluorescence staining of the cardiomyocytes was performed, and the cellular expression of AMPK and its phosphorylation level were detected. The effects of PRP on the proliferation and migration of rat aortic endothelial cells (RAOECs) were examined. In a SD rat model of myocardial IR injury, 100 μL of PRP (n= 20) or normal saline (n=20) was injected at 4 sites around the ligation site immediately after cardiac reperfusion. One day after the injection, 6 rats were selected from each group for TTC staining of the myocardial tissues and measurement of troponin Ⅰ content. One week later, the cardiac function of the remaining rats was assessed by echocardiography, and HE staining of the myocardial tissues was performed. The effect of PRP treatment for 24 h on polarization of M1 and M2 macrophages was also examined by flow cytometry in RAW264.7 cells after hypoxic exposure for 3 h.

OBJECTIVE

The concentrations of PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 were significantly higher in PRP than in whole blood. Addition of 1% volume of PRP significantly reduced death of the cardiomyocytes following reoxygenation, and this effect was closely related with the activation of AMPK. Treatment with PRP obviously promoted the proliferation and migration of RAOECs. In rat models of acute myocardial IR injury, injections of PRP significantly reduced the infarct size and troponin Ⅰ concentration as compared with saline injection (P < 0.001). One week after PRP injection, the rats showed significantly improved cardiac function with a lowered level of inflammatory response in comparison with the rats with saline injection. In RAW264.7 cells with hypoxic exposure, treatment with PRP obviously decreased the number of M1 macrophages and increase the number of M2 macrophages.

OBJECTIVE

PRP can improve acute myocardial IR injury in rats by phosphorylating AMPK and regulating macrophage polarization, which produces a protective immunomodulatory effect on the ischemic myocardial tissues.

The antihypertensive effect of MK on spontaneously hypertensive rats through the AMPK/Akt/eNOS/NO and ERK1/2/Cx43 signaling pathways

We investigated the antihypertensive effects of maximakinin (MK) on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). The effects of MK on arterial blood pressure in SHRs were observed, and flow cytometry and 4,5-diaminofluorescein-2 staining were used to examine MK-induced nitric oxide (NO) release in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Western blotting was used to analyze the effects of MK on the expression of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), Akt, Connexin 43, ERK1/2, p38, and p-eNOS in HUVECs. The results showed that MK induced a more significant antihypertensive effect on SHRs than bradykinin (BK). MK induced significant increases in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation and NO release in HUVECs. MK also significantly increased the phosphorylation of Akt and AMPK in HUVECs. The AMPK inhibitor compound C blocked the effect of MK on the generation of NO. MK induced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and Connexin 43. The expression of p-Connexin 43 was significantly decreased in the presence of the ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 but not the p38 inhibitor SB203580. The effects of MK on the phosphorylation of AMPK and ERK1/2 were significantly decreased by the BK B₂ receptor inhibitor HOE-140. In summary, MK can significantly reduce blood pressure in SHRs. The antihypertensive effect might be mediated through the activation of the BK B₂ receptor, while the downstream AMPK/PI3K/Akt/eNOS/NO and ERK1/2/Connexin 43 signaling pathways play additional roles.

Inhibition of TLR4/MAPKs Pathway Contributes to the Protection of Salvianolic Acid A Against Lipotoxicity-Induced Myocardial Damage in Cardiomyocytes and Obese Mice

The occurrence of lipotoxicity during obesity-associated cardiomyopathy is detrimental to health. Salvianolic acid A (SAA), a natural polyphenol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen in China), is known to be cardioprotective. However, its clinical benefits against obesity-associated cardiomyocyte injuries are unclear. This study aimed at evaluating the protective effects of SAA against lipotoxicity-induced myocardial injury and its underlying mechanisms in high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and in palmitate-treated cardiomyocyte cells (H9c2). Our analysis of aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB (CM-KB) levels revealed that SAA significantly reversed HFD-induced myocardium morphological changes and improved myocardial damage. Salvianolic acid A pretreatment ameliorated palmitic acid-induced myocardial cell death and was accompanied by mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular reactive oxygen species improvement. Analysis of the underlying mechanisms showed that SAA reversed myocardial TLR4 induction in HFD-fed mice and H9c2 cells. Palmitic acid-induced cell death was significantly reversed by CLI-95, a specific TLR4 inhibitor. TLR4 activation by LPS significantly suppressed SAA-mediated lipotoxicity protection. Additionally, SAA inhibited lipotoxicity-mediated expression of TLR4 target genes, including MyD88 and p-JNK/MAPK in HFD-fed mice and H9c2 cells. However, SAA did not exert any effect on palmitic acid-induced SIRT1 suppression and p-AMPK induction. In conclusion, our data shows that SAA protects against lipotoxicity-induced myocardial damage through a TLR4/MAPKs mediated mechanism.

Tongmai Yangxin pill reduces myocardial no-reflow by regulating apoptosis and activating PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tongmai Yangxin pill (TMYX) is derived from the Zhigancao decoction recorded in Shang han lun by Zhang Zhongjing during the Han dynasty and was further improved by Professor Ruan Shiyi, a cardiovascular expert at Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. TMYX is used for the clinical treatment of chest pain, heartache, and qi-yin-deficiency coronary heart disease and can improve vascular endothelial function in patients with angina pectoris or coronary heart disease by up-regulating nitric oxide activity and then regulating vascular tension. Whether TMYX can further improve myocardial no-reflow by up-regulating NO activity and then dilating blood vessels remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to reveal whether TMYX can further improve myocardial NR by up-regulating NO activity and then dilating blood vessels. The mechanism underlying PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway activation and apoptosis regulation is also explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The left anterior descending coronary arteries of healthy adult male SD rats were ligated to establish a NR model. The rats were assigned to 14 groups: control, sham, NR, TMYX (4.0 g/kg), sodium nitroprusside (SNP), Tongxinluo capsule (TXL), PI3K blocker (LY), TMYX + LY, SNP + LY, TXL + LY, eNOS blocker (L-NAME), TMYX + L-NAME, SNP + L-NAME, and TXL + L-NAME groups. Cardiac function was measured through echocardiography. Thioflavin S, Evans Blue, and TTC staining were adopted to evaluate NR and ischemic areas. Cell inflammation degree and edema were assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Automated biochemical analyzer and kit were used to detect the activities of myocardial oxidants, including reactive oxygen species, super oxide dismutase, malonaldehyde, and NO. The expression levels of genes and proteins in the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway and apoptosis were detected via real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. A microvascular tension sensor was adopted to detect coronary artery diastolic function in vitro.

RESULTS

TMYX reduced NR and ischemic areas; suppressed LV-mass; enhanced EF, FS, LVOT peak, and LVSV; and improved cardiac structure and function. Moreover, it decreased creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, and lactic dehydrogenase activities. TMYX increased NO and super oxide dismutase activities; inhibited malonaldehyde activity; reduced muscle fiber swelling and inflammatory cell infiltration; and improved vasodilation in vitro. In the NR myocardium, TMYX stimulated myocardial PI3K activities and PI3K (Tyr458) phosphorylation and enhanced Akt activities and Akt phosphorylation at Tyr315. TMYX increased the activities of eNOS and the phosphorylation of eNOS at Ser¹¹⁷⁷ in the NR myocardium and attenuated cardiomyocyte apoptosis by increasing the expression of Bcl-2 and decreasing that of caspase-3 and Bax. All these effects of TMYX were abolished by the specific inhibitors of PI3K (LY) and eNOS (L-NAME).

CONCLUSIONS

TMYX attenuates myocardial NR after ischemia and reperfusion by activating the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway and regulating apoptosis, further up-regulating NO activity and relaxing coronary microvessels.

Hemodynamic Assessment and in vivo Catabolism of Adenosine 5'- Triphosphate in Doxorubicin or Isoproterenol-induced Cardiovascular Toxicity

PURPOSE

Previous studies have shown catabolism of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) in systemic blood is a potential surrogate biomarker for cardiovascular toxicity. We compared the acute toxicity of high doses of doxorubicin (DOX) and isoproterenol (ISO) on hemodynamics and ATP catabolism in systemic circulation.

METHODS

Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (n = 8 - 11) were each given either a single dose of 30 mg/kg ISO, or twice-daily dose of 10 mg/kg of DOX or normal saline (control) for 4 doses by subcutaneous injection. Blood samples were collected up to 6 hours for measuring concentrations of ATP and its catabolites. Hemodynmics was recorded continuously. Difference was considered significant at p < 0.05 (ANOVA).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Mortality was 1/8, 5/11 and 0/11 for the DOX, ISO and control groups, respectively. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the DOX and ISO treated rats than in the control measured at the last recorded time (76 ± 9 for DOX vs 42 ± 8 for ISO vs 103 ± 5 mmHg for Control, p < 0.05 for all). Blood pressure fell gradually after the final injection for both DOX and control groups, but abruptly after ISO followed by a rebound and then gradual decline till the end of the experiment. Heart rate was significantly higher after ISO, but no difference between the DOX and control rats (p > 0.05). RBC concentrations of ADP and AMP, and plasma concentrations of adenosine and uric acid were significantly higher in the ISO group. In contrast, hypoxanthine concentrations were significantly higher in the DOX treated group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Acute cardiovascular toxicity induced by DOX and ISO may be measured by changes in hemodynamics and breakdown of ATP and adenosine in the systemic circulation, albeit a notable qualitative and quantitative difference was observed.

Gemcitabine potentiates anti-tumor effect of resveratrol on pancreatic cancer via down-regulation of VEGF-B

PURPOSE

In our previous study, we discovered that resveratrol (RSV) had potential tumor-promoting effect on pancreatic cancer (PaCa) via up-regulation of VEGF-B. Therefore, we assumed that a pharmacological inhibitor of VEGF-B should potentiate the anti-tumor effect of RSV on PaCa.

METHODS

Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to examine VEGF-B mRNA and protein levels. Cell viability and cell apoptosis were assessed by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. PaCa cell-bearing nude mice were used to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of single treatment or co-administration of RSV and gemcitabine (GEM).

RESULTS

We found that treatment with GEM alone dramatically decreased VEGF-B expression in comparison with control group, indicating that GEM is a potential pharmacological inhibitor of VEGF-B in PaCa. The co-administration of RSV and GEM significantly lowered expression of VEGF-B and increased phosphorylation level of GSK3β at Ser9 when compared to RSV alone treatment either in vitro or in vivo. Combination of RSV and GEM significantly increased cell death and apoptosis of PaCa cells in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in vivo in comparison with RSV or GEM alone treatment. Furthermore, we found that the anti-tumor effect in combination group was dramatically weakened after VEGF-B overexpressed in PaCa cells.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that VEGF-B signaling pathway plays an important role in the development of PaCa and combination of GEM and RSV would be a promising modality for clinical PaCa therapy.

The protective effect of piperine against isoproterenol-induced inflammation in experimental models of myocardial toxicity

Myocardial infarction (MI) eventually exacerbates inflammatory response due to the release of inflammatory and pro-inflammatory factors. The aim of this study is to explore the protective efficacy of piperine supplementation against the inflammatory response in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced MI. Masson Trichome staining was executed to determine myocardial tissue architecture. Immunohistochemistry was performed for IL-6, TNF-α. RT-PCR studies were performed to ascertain the gene expression of IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, eNOS, MMP-2, MMP-9, and collagen-III. Western blotting was performed to determine expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, Nrf-2, NF-ƙB, Cox-2, p-38, phospho-p38, ERK-1/2, phospho-ERK-1/2, and collagen-I. HIF-1α, VEGF, and iNOS expression were significantly upregulated with concomitant decline in eNOS expression in the heart myocardial tissue of rats received ISO alone whereas piperine pretreatment prevented these changes in ISO administered rats. Current results revealed ROS-mediated activation of MAPKs, namely, p-p38, p-ERK1/2 in the heart tissue of ISO administered group. Piperine pretreatment significantly prevented these changes in ISO treated group. NF-κB is involved in the modulation of gene expressions responsible for tissue repair. ISO-induced NF-κB-p65 expression was significantly reduced in the group pretreated with piperine and mitigated extent of myocardial inflammation. A significant increase in cardiac fibrosis upon ISO treatment was reported due to the increased hydroxyproline content, MMP-2 & 9 and upregulation of collagen-I protein compared to control group. All these cardiac hypertrophy markers were decreased in 'piperine pretreated ISO administered group' compared to group received ISO injection. Current findings concluded that piperine as a nutritional intervention could prevent inflammation of myocardium in ISO-induced MI.

Resveratrol inhibits tumor progression by down-regulation of NLRP3 in renal cell carcinoma

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common urologic malignant tumors. Current chemotherapy is not effective in RCC and results in some side effects. Resveratrol (RSV) has been reported to exert antitumor effects in some cancer cells; however the mechanism is not fully understood. Herein, we aimed to determine the anticancer effect of RSV on RCC and further explore the underlying molecular mechanism in this process. We found that RSV inhibited tumor cells proliferation, migration and invasion and increased apoptosis of RCC either in vivo or in vitro. RSV significantly down-regulated expressions of NLRP3 and its downstream genes. Inhibition of NLRP3 by NLRP3 small interfering RNA mimicked the effects of RSV on RCC cells. These results suggested that RSV could exert antitumor effect by depressing activity of NLRP3, and NLRP3 would be a promising clinical therapeutic strategy for RCC.

Syringaresinol Protects against Type 1 Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Alleviating Inflammation Responses, Cardiac Fibrosis, and Oxidative Stress

SCOPE

Syringaresinol (SYR) is a phenolic compound, which could be found in various cereals and medicinal plants. It exerts both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pharmacological properties. However, little is known about the effect of SYR on modulating diabetic cardiomyopathy. The present study aimed to investigate the pharmacodynamic effect of SYR on diabetic cardiomyopathy and the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In STZ-induced type 1 diabetic mice, orally administration with SYR in every other day for 8 weeks significantly improves cardiac dysfunction and preventes cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. The macrophage infiltration and oxidative stress biomarkers are also suppressed by SYR without affecting hyperglycemia and body weight. In neonatal cardiomyocytes, high glucose-induced cell apoptosis and fibrosis are potently decreased by SYR, and the inflammatory response and oxidant stress are also alleviated by SYR incubation. Mechanistically, SYR may exert protective effects by restoring suppression of antioxidant kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) system and abnormal activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad) signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that SYR could be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress. The signaling pathway of Keap1/Nrf2 and TGF-β/Smad could be used as therapeutic targets for diabetic complications.

The roles of resveratrol on cardiac mitochondrial function in cardiac diseases

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is commonly associated with a variety of health conditions including acute myocardial infarction and obesity/diabetes. In addition, administration of several pharmacological agents such as anticancer, antiviral, and immunosuppressive drugs has been shown to be related with LV dysfunction. The molecular mechanism responsible for LV dysfunction has been extensively studied, and it has been proposed that the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a crucial role in the regulation of this function. Mitochondria require the balance between ROS production and antioxidants to maintain their appropriate function and to prevent excessive ROS production. Thus, the excessive production of ROS and the reduced scavenging process under any pathological conditions could disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to energy depletion with subsequent cell death. Therefore, maintenance of the balance between oxidative stress and antioxidants is essential. Resveratrol, a stilbene, has been investigated extensively, and potentially used to treat or prevent various cardiovascular diseases. Resveratrol directly upregulates antioxidative capacity by increasing antioxidant genes such as heme oxygenase-1, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione. In this review, accumulated data from in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies regarding the effects of resveratrol on cardiac mitochondrial function in cardiac pathologies are comprehensively summarized and discussed. Since there is no conclusive available clinical study regarding the effects of resveratrol on cardiac mitochondrial function, this review also aims to encourage more clinical investigations to confirm findings from basic research. This comprehensive review will provide insight regarding the potential mechanistic roles of resveratrol in preventing and/or treating patients with cardiovascular diseases to improve LV function and their health status.

Resveratrol prevents ISO-induced myocardial remodeling associated with regulating polarization of macrophages through VEGF-B/AMPK/NF-kB pathway

Macrophage expansion and inflammatory responses are involved in induction of cardiac remodeling. Resveratrol has strong anti-inflammatory effects, however its effect on macrophage infiltration and polarization is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of RSV on ISO-induced myocardial remodeling in mice and its regulatory role in macrophage polarization. BALB/c mice were orally administered with RSV (100 mg/kg) daily for one week, then were subcutaneously injected with ISO (50 mg/kg) daily for another week. ISO injections to mouse caused cardiac dysfunction evidenced by cardiac hypertrophy and cardiomyocyte fibrosis. Meanwhile, macrophage M1 polarization was found in ISO treated mice, which was evidenced by increased percentage of Ly6C^low macrophages in the heart, levels of M1 cytokines and expression of CD68, and decreased percentage of Ly6C^high macrophage, levels of M2 cytokines and expression of CD206. All these changes in cardiac and macrophage M1 polarization were ameliorated when mice were pretreated with RSV. The effect of RSV on macrophage polarization was also tested in RAW264.7 cells. It was found that pre-treatment with RSV decreased the levels of M1 marker or proinflammatory cytokines, while increased the levels of M2 markers in ISO treated cells. In addition, it was found that RSV could upregulate the expression of VEGF-B and the activity of AMPK, while it downregulated the expression of phosphorylated NF-κB p65 both in RAW264.7 cells and in mice. Furthermore, pretreatment with VEGF-B siRNA greatly reversed changes in almost all above parameters evoked by RSV in RAW264.7 cells. Therefore, our findings suggest RSV has potential therapeutic effects in ISO-induced myocardial injury, which may be by inhibiting the M1 polarization of macrophages through VEGFB/AMPK/NF-кB pathway.

Combined cardio-protective ability of syringic acid and resveratrol against isoproterenol induced cardio-toxicity in rats via attenuating NF-kB and TNF-α pathways

The study was conducted to evaluate the cardio-protective activity of combination (COMB) of syringic acid (SA) and resveratrol (RV) against isoproterenol (ISO) induced cardio-toxicity in rats. Rats were pre-treated orally with SA (50 mg/kg), RV (50 mg/kg) and combination of SA (25 mg/kg) and RV (25 mg/kg) along with positive control gallic acid (50 mg/kg) for 30 days. The effects of ISO on cardiac markers, lipid profile and lipid peroxidation marker, anti-oxidant enzymes and m-RNA expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were observed along with histopathological observations of simple and transmission electron microscopes (TEM). Serum creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased while cardiac tissue CK-MB, LDH, superoxide dismutase and catalase were significantly decreased in ISO administered rats, which also exhibited a significant increase in total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol and thiobarbutyric acid reactive substances and significant decrease in high density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum and heart. The m-RNA levels of inflammatory markers NF-kB and TNF-α were significantly increased in ISO treated rats. COMB Pre-treatment significantly reversed the ISO actions. Histopathological studies of simple and TEM were also co-related with the above biochemical parameters. Docking studies with NF-kB were also performed. Evidence has shown for the first time in this approach that COMB pre-treatment ameliorated ISO induced cardio-toxicity in rats and revealed cardio-protection.

Resveratrol Modulates miR-34a in Cardiotoxicity Induced by Isoproterenol

Acute myocardial infarction is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. This study was designed to elucidate the effect of resveratrol (RES) in isoproterenol (ISO)-challenged myocardial injury in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to four groups (10 rats/group): negative, control positive ISO (85 mg/kg), Propranolol/ISO, and RES/ISO. RES (50 mg/kg) improved plasma lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and cardiac troponin T; brain natriuretic peptide, interleukin-10, vascular endothelial growth factor, and transforming growth factor-β1; as well as cardiac superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and total protein kinase-1 (Akt-1) levels. In addition, RES reduced the expression of cardiac inducible nitric oxide synthase and microRNA-34a, as well as p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase levels compared with positive control group. In conclusion, RES could reduce the degree of MI induced by ISO by improving the antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory capacities of the body.

Cardio protective role of wogonin loaded nanoparticle against isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction by moderating oxidative stress and inflammation

Wogonin, one of the main active ingredients of Scutellaria radix, is a kind of flavonoid compound. In the present study, we report that wogonin nanoparticles (Wog np) protect Isoproterenol (ISO) induced Myocardial Infarction (MI) rats. Nanoparticles of sizes less than 200 nm with spherical shape were prepared using Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) respectively as polymer and stabilizer. Male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 as a control group administered with physiological saline solution with 0.5 % carboxymethylcellulose (1 mL/day). Group 2 served as toxic group; rats received physiological saline solution with 0.5 % carboxymethylcellulose (1 mL/day) orally for 21 days Groups 3 and 4 received Wog np (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) orally for 21 days and on the 20th and 21 st days group 2, 3, and 4 were administered with ISO (85 mg/kg) through s.c. route at 24 h interval. pre-treatment with Wog np (25 and 50 mg/kg) could significantly reduce the cardiac infarct size, serum cardiac markers, lipid peroxidation product (MDA) and inflammatory markers as well as markedly upregulated the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2)and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) to confer its strong cardioprotective activity against ISO induced myocardial damage.

Pyridostigmine regulates glucose metabolism and mitochondrial homeostasis to reduce myocardial vulnerability to injury in diabetic mice

Diabetic patients are more susceptible to myocardial ischemia damage than nondiabetic patients, with worse clinical outcomes and greater mortality. The mechanism may be related to glucose metabolism, mitochondrial homeostasis, and oxidative stress. Pyridostigmine may improve vagal activity to protect cardiac function in cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have not determined whether pyridostigmine regulates glucose metabolism and mitochondrial homeostasis to reduce myocardial vulnerability to injury in diabetic mice. In the present study, autonomic imbalance, myocardial damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress were exacerbated in isoproterenol-stimulated diabetic mice, revealing the myocardial vulnerability of diabetic mice to injury compared with mice with diabetes or exposed to isoproterenol alone. Compared with normal mice, the expression of glucose transporters (GLUT)1/4 phosphofructokinase (PFK) FB3, and pyruvate kinase isoform (PKM) was decreased in diabetic mice, but increased in isoproterenol-stimulated normal mice. Following exposure to isoproterenol, the expression of (GLUT)1/4 phosphofructokinase (PFK) FB3, and PKM decreased in diabetic mice compared with normal mice. The downregulation of SIRT3/AMPK and IRS-1/Akt in isoproterenol-stimulated diabetic mice was exacerbated compared with that in diabetic mice or isoproterenol-stimulated normal mice. Pyridostigmine improved vagus activity, increased GLUT1/4, PFKFB3, and PKM expression, and ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress to reduce myocardial damage in isoproterenol-stimulated diabetic mice. Based on these results, it was found that pyridostigmine may reduce myocardial vulnerability to injury via the SIRT3/AMPK and IRS-1/Akt pathways in diabetic mice with isoproterenol-induced myocardial damage. This study may provide a potential therapeutic target for myocardial damage in diabetic patients.