Cardioprotective Effects ofNigella sativaOil on Cyclosporine A-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats

Effects of curcumin on cyclosporine A-induced oxidative stress, autophagy, and apoptosis in rat heart

BACKGROUND

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a powerful immunosuppressant commonly used as a prophylaxis on transplant. However, it is associated with serious effects, including cardiotoxicity. Curcumin is a bioactive compound known for its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. So, the present study investigated the possible protective effect of curcumin on CsA-induced heart injury in rats, focusing on oxidative stress, autophagy, and apoptosis.

METHODS

A total of 32 male Wistar rats were divided into control, sham (drug solvent), CsA (30 mg/kg BW), and curcumin + CsA (40 mg/kg BW, 30 mg/kg BW, respectively) groups. After 4 weeks of treatment, the heart was isolated for molecular assays. Immunoblot detected oxidative and autophagic proteins NOX4, hsp-70, beclin-1, and LC3II. The amount of 8-OHdG was measured by ELISA and heart apoptosis was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining (TUNEL).

RESULTS

At the molecular levels, CSA increased the expression of NOX-4, beclin-1, LC3b, and oHdG in heart tissue. In addition, the amount of apoptosis increased in the heart tissue. However, curcumin treatment improved heart injury by significantly downregulating NOX4, LC3b, and decreasing 8-OHdG. Also, curcumin significantly reduced the rate of myocardial apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

To sum up, curcumin appears to protect against CsA-induced cardiotoxicity in rats by reducing oxidative activity, apoptosis, and regulating autophagy.

Antimicrobial Properties and Therapeutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds in Nigella sativa: A Review

Nigella sativa (N. sativa; Ranunculaceae), commonly referred to as black cumin, is one of the most widely used medicinal plants worldwide, with its seeds having numerous applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries. With the emergence of antibiotic resistance in pathogens as an important health challenge, the need for alternative microbe-inhibitory agents is on the rise, whereby black cumin has gained considerable attention from researchers for its strong antimicrobial characteristics owing to its high content in a wide range of bioactive compounds, including thymoquinone, nigellimine, nigellidine, quercetin, and O-cymene. Particularly, thymoquinone increases the levels of antioxidant enzymes that counter oxidative stress in the liver. Additionally, the essential oil in N. sativa seeds effectively inhibits intestinal parasites and shows moderate activity against some bacteria, including Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Thymoquinone exhibits minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 8-16 μg/mL against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and exhibits MIC 0.25 µg/mL against drug-resistant mycobacteria. Similarly, quercetin shows a MIC of 2 mg/mL against oral pathogens, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Furthermore, endophytic fungi isolated from N. sativa have demonstrated antibacterial activity. Therefore, N. sativa is a valuable medicinal plant with potential for medicinal and food-related applications. In-depth exploration of the corresponding therapeutic potential and scope of industrial application warrants further research.

Nigella sativa oil attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in experimental myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

A growing interest in using Nigella sativa oil (NSO) in the prevention or treatment of several cardiovascular diseases has prompted this study. The research aims to investigate the effect of NSO on cardiac damage prevention after long-term administration in induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats.

METHODS

NSO was analyzed for its fatty acids composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and administered in rats before and after isoproterenol (45 mg/kg body weight) induced myocardial infarction. The following parameters were assessed: electrocardiograms, histopathological examination, serum biochemical aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), serum and heart inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1b), and interleukin 6 (IL-6)), and tissue oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and the total thiols (THIOL)).

RESULTS

Linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were approximately 89% of total fatty acids while palmitic acid (C16:0) was 6.10%. Administration of NSO for 28 days helped in preventing QT and QTc interval prolongation and reduced heart rate (HR), after MI induction. The histological assessment showed improvement in myofibrillary degeneration and necrosis and also better reduced inflammatory process in the groups treated with NSO. In serum, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1b and IL-6 were downregulated in chronic conditions (for IL-1b, NSO vs. control was 86.09vs 150.39 pg/mL, and for IL-6 NSO vs. control was 78.00 vs. 184.98 pg/ml). In the heart tissue, the downregulation was observed only for TNF in both acute and chronic conditions (acute NSO vs. control was 132.37 vs. 207.63 pg/mL, and chronic NSO vs. control was 135.83 vs. 183.29 pg/ml). The pro-oxidant parameters TOS, NO, MDA, and OSI, were reduced in the groups treated with NSO only after 14 days of treatment, suggesting that the NSO antioxidant effect is time-dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

NSO administration might have a favourable impact on the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation processes after MI induction in rats, and it is worth considering its administration as an adjuvant treatment.

UGT1A1 morpholino antisense oligonucleotides produce mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in cyclosporine A-induced cardiovascular disorders in BLC57 mice

This study aimed to investigate the induction of mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in hepatic UGT1A1 inhibition by Morpholinos antisense in CsA-treated BLC57 mice in comparison with the efficacy of chitosan (CH) as an anti-hypolipidemic natural product. Antisense morpholino oligonucleotides were injected intravenously into CsA-treated mice for 14 days thrice a week. Serum biochemical parameters, antioxidant status, and gene expression analysis of eNOS, PPAR-α, NF-kB, cFn, AT1-R, and ETA-R were determined in cardiac tissues with confirmation by histopathology. Inhibition of UGT1A1 significantly elevated serum unconjugated bilirubin within a physiological range. Furthermore, induced mild hyperbilirubinemia reduces hyperlipidemia, improves antioxidant status, and significantly increases the expression of the cardiac PPAR-α gene while decreasing, ETA-R, iNOS, NF-kB, cFn and AT1-R gene expression in CsA-treated mice. Importantly, mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia within physiological ranges may be used as a novel therapeutic strategy to lower hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and the CVD outcomes in CsA- treated transplant recipients.

Mechanism of the antidiabetic action of Nigella sativa and Thymoquinone: a review

Introduction

Long used in traditional medicine, Nigella sativa (NS; Ranunculaceae) has shown significant efficacy as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus (DM) management by improving glucose tolerance, decreasing hepatic gluconeogenesis, normalizing blood sugar and lipid imbalance, and stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic cells. In this review, the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of NS as a herbal diabetes medication are examined in depth, demonstrating how it counteracts oxidative stress and the onset and progression of DM.

Methods

This literature review drew on databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed and various gray literature sources using search terms like the etiology of diabetes, conventional versus herbal therapy, subclinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, physiology, behavior, and clinical outcomes.

Results

The efficiency and safety of NS in diabetes, notably its thymoquinone (TQ) rich volatile oil, have drawn great attention from researchers in recent years; the specific therapeutic dose has eluded determination so far. TQ has anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties but has not proved druggable. DM's intimate link with oxidative stress, makes NS therapy relevant since it is a potent antioxidant that energizes the cell's endogenous arsenal of antioxidant enzymes. NS attenuates insulin resistance, enhances insulin signaling, suppresses cyclooxygenase-2, upregulates insulin-like growth factor-1, and prevents endothelial dysfunction in DM.

Conclusion

The interaction of NS with mainstream drugs, gut microbiota, and probiotics opens new possibilities for innovative therapies. Despite its strong potential to treat DM, NS and TQ must be examined in more inclusive clinical studies targeting underrepresented patient populations.

Oral Nigella sativa oil administration alleviates arsenic-induced redox imbalance, DNA damage, and metabolic and histological alterations in rat liver

Arsenic, an omnipresent environmental contaminant, is regarded as a potent hepatotoxin. Nigella sativa oil (NSO) consumption has been shown to improve hepatic functions in various in vivo models of acute hepatic injury. The present study evaluates the protective efficacy of NSO against sodium arsenate (As)-induced deleterious alterations in the liver. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, namely, control, As, NSO, and AsNSO. After pre-treating rats in AsNSO and NSO groups with NSO (2 mL/kg bwt, orally) for 14 days, NSO treatment was further extended for 30 days, with and without As treatment (5 mg/kg bwt, orally), respectively. As induced an upsurge in serum ALT and AST activities indicating liver injury, as also confirmed by the histopathological findings. As caused significant alterations in the activities of membrane marker enzymes and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, and in the vital components of antioxidant defense system. Marked DNA damage and hepatic arsenic accumulation were also observed in As-treated rats. Oral NSO administration ameliorated these deleterious alterations and improved overall hepatic antioxidant and metabolic status in As-treated rats. Prevention of oxidative damage could be the underlying mechanism of NSO-mediated protective effects. The results suggest that NSO could be a useful dietary supplement in the management of arsenic hepatotoxicity.

Alleviation of prilocaine-induced epileptiform activity and cardiotoxicity by thymoquinone

PURPOSE

This study investigated whether thymoquinone (TQ) could alleviate central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular toxicity of prilocaine, a commonly used local anesthetic.

METHODS

Rats were randomized to the following groups: control, prilocaine treated, TQ treated and prilocaine + TQ treated. Electroencephalography and electrocardiography electrodes were placed and trachea was intubated. Mechanical ventilation was initiated, right femoral artery was cannulated for continuous blood pressure measurements and blood-gas sampling while the left femoral vein was cannulated for prilocaine infusion. Markers of myocardial injury, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) generation and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assayed by standard kits. Aquaporin-4 (AQP4), nuclear factor(NF)κB-p65 and -p50 subunit in brain tissue were evaluated by histological scoring.

RESULTS

Blood pH and partial oxygen pressure, was significantly decreased after prilocaine infusion. The decrease in blood pH was alleviated in the prilocaine + TQ treated group. Prilocaine produced seizure activity, cardiac arrhythmia and asystole at significantly lower doses compared to prilocaine + TQ treated rats. Thymoquinone administration attenuated levels of myocardial injury induced by prilocaine. Prilocaine treatment caused increased ROS/RNS formation and decreased TAC in heart and brain tissue. Thymoquinone increased heart and brain TAC and decreased ROS/RNS formation in prilocaine treated rats. AQP4, NFκB-p65 and NFκB-p50 expressions were increased in cerebellum, cerebral cortex, choroid plexus and thalamic nucleus in prilocaine treated rats. Thymoquinone, decreased the expression of AQP4, NFκB-p65 and NFκB-p50 in brain tissue in prilocaine + TQ treated rats.

CONCLUSION

Results indicate that TQ could ameliorate prilocaine-induced CNS and cardiovascular toxicity.

Nigella sativa in controlling Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular, and rheumatoid arthritis diseases: Molecular aspects

Oxidative stress is an important factor in the etiology of several chronic diseases that include cardiovascular disease (CVD), Type 2 diabetes (T2D), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Oxidative stress can lead to inflammation, and this can contribute to these chronic diseases. Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may, therefore, be useful in the prevention and treatment of these conditions. One of the treatment options for chronic diseases is the use of traditional medicine and herbs, such as Nigella sativa. This is one of the herbs that have recently been assessed for its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. We have reviewed the reported effects of N. sativa on risk factors of chronic diseases (CVD, DM, and RA) with emphasis on molecular and cellular mechanisms in controlling inflammation and oxidative stress. Various mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to the beneficial properties of N. sativa, including a reduction of lipid peroxidation via its antioxidant properties; agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma in adipose tissue; activation of AMP-activated protein kinase, increased antioxidants, inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B pathway; increased in interleukin-10 expression, CD4+ T-cell percentage, T regulatory cell percentage (CD4+ CD25+ T-cell) in peripheral blood, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio, but to prove this claim, it is necessary to conduct experimental and well-designed clinical trial studies with a larger sample size on the effects of N. sativa on these chronic diseases.

Hepatoprotective effect of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib against cyclosporine-A induced liver injury in rats through blocking the Bax/Cytochrome C/caspase-3 apoptotic signaling pathway

Cyclosporine-A (CsA) is a powerful immunosuppressive agent and hepatotoxicity results from CsA treatment. This study aimed to elucidate the effectiveness of tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib against CsA-induced hepatotoxicity and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated into four groups and received drugs for 28 days as follows: Control group: received vehicle, Nilotinib group: received nilotinib (20 mg/kg orally), CsA group: received CsA by subcutaneous injection (20 mg/kg daily), CsA-nilotinib: received nilotinib and CsA. Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), liver function biomarkers, hepatic levels of oxidative stress biomarkers, nuclear factor erythroid-2 like-2 (Nrf2), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-1β, IL-6, and cytochrome-C were assessed. Additionally, the protein levels and mRNA expression of Bcl2 associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) were measured. Moreover, liver tissues were assessed histopathologically using hematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome stain. Nilotinib treatment decreased serum LDH, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and γ-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT), hepatic malondialdehyde, and cytochrome-C. It also increased superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase (GST), TAC, and Nrf2 compared to CsA-injected rats. In addition, nilotinib decreased NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, Bax, and caspase-3, while elevated IL-2 and immunoexpression of HO-1. Additionally, mRNA expression of Bax and caspase-3 was elevated and that of HO-1 and inhibitory protein κB-α was reduced in the nilotinib-treated group. Moreover, nilotinib significantly attenuated CsA-induced histopathological alterations. Nilotinib may have a promising role as a hepato-protective through its antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

The effect of Nigella sativa on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The present systematic review of literature was conducted to study the effect of Nigella sativa (N.S) on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers.

CONTENT

Different online databases such as Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Sciences, EMBASE, and Clininaltrial.gov for English articles and national databases of SID, Magiran, Irandoc, and Iranmedex for Persian articles, which were published until March; 2019 were scrutinized. All Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies that aimed to compare the impact of N.S along, with placebo or without supplementation, on inflammatory factors and oxidative stress were entered in the present study.

SUMMARY

Finally, 11 RCTs covering 710 women and men, in total, were participated in the present meta-analysis. Significant differences were observed in Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) (Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) =-2.15 pg/mL, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) =-3.22--1.09, I²=32%; 5 trials with 262 participants) superoxide dismutase (WMD=63.79 µ/gHb, 95% CI=6.84-120.75, I²=0%; 2 trials, with 88 participants), and total antioxidant capacity (WMD=0.34 mmol/L, 95% CI=0.04 to 0.63, I²=94%; 5 trials with 232 participants). Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in high sensitivity C-reactive protein (WMD=-0.98 mg/L, 95% CI=-1.98-0.03, I²=78%; 5 trials with 267 participants), Interleukin 6 (IL-6) (WMD=-0.25 pg/mL, 95% CI=-0.65 to 0.16, I²=0%; 2 trials with 134 participants), and malondialdehyde (WMD=-0.95 nmol/mL, 95% CI=-1.97-0.08, I²=68%; 4 trials with 179 participants).

OUTLOOK

Generally speaking, N.S probably results in the improvement of superoxide dismutase serum levels, TNF-α, and total antioxidant capacity. Thus, further studies are required to fully assess its impacts on all oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers.

Lipoxin A4-Mediated p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway Protects Mice Against Collagen-Induced Arthritis

The aim of the article was to study the mechanism of Lipoxin A4 (LXA4)-mediated p38 MAPK pathway protecting mice against collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). The impact of LXA4 (0, 5, 10, 15 nM) on synoviocytes proliferation of CIA mice was detected using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. CIA mice were treated with LXA4, SB203580 (a p38 inhibitor), and/or anisomycin (a p38 agonist), and the arthritis severity score in each mouse was determined. The gene or protein expressions were detected with Western Blotting, ELISA, or qRT-PCR. LXA4 inhibited the synoviocytes proliferation of CIA mice with decreased levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ and reduced p-p38/total p38 expression in synoviocytes in a dose-dependent manner. LXA4 levels were decreased in synovial tissues and plasma of CIA mice, but p-p38/total p38 expression was increased in synovial tissues. LXA4 could downregulate p-p38/total p38 expression in synovial tissues of CIA mice. Both LXA4 and SB203580 reduced arthritis severity score of CIA mice with the reduction of synovial tissue hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration. CIA mice treated with LXA4 and SB203580 had lower levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ, accompanying decreased MDA as well as increased SOD, CAT,and GPx. However, anisomycin could reverse the protect effects of LXA4 on CIA mice regarding the abovementioned inflammatory factors and oxidative stress indexes. LXA4 protected mice against collagen-induced arthritis via inhibiting p38 MAPK signaling pathway, which may be a potential new therapeutic target for rheumatoid arthritis.

Effect of feed supplementation of Dacryodes edulis parts' powder as prebiotic on the growth traits, ceca microbiota and blood parameters of local chickens

This study aimed at testing the efficacy and safety of Dacryodes edulis plant parts in diets fed to chicken. The plant has potential for use as a natural prebiotic to substitute the conventionally used antibiotic growth promoters in poultry production. Phytochemical analyses of the plant leaves, stem, and bark combination (stembark) and seed powders from the D. edulis were carried out. The powder from the three D. edulis plant parts were used as supplement in formulating six experimental diets tested in this study. The diets were TL_0Ed (0.5% leaves powder), TL_1Ed (1.0% leaves powder), TB_0Ed (0.5% stembark powder), TB_1Ed (1.0% stembark powder), TS_0Ed (0.5% seeds powder), and TS_1Ed (1.0% seeds powder). Besides, a positive (T₊ positive control; 0.5-g oxytetracycline as recommended by the manufacturer) and a negative (T_- negative control; having no commercial antibiotic and no plant supplement) diets were prepared for comparison purposes. The diets were fed to a total of 288 dual-purpose chicken for a period of 14 weeks. The chicken growth and body composition characteristics, blood chemistry, and microbiota count were collected and used as indicators of the plant parts efficacy and safety. The analysis of the D. edulis plant parts significantly differed (P ≤ 0.05) in their phytochemical contents. The initial body weight and feed conversion efficiency ratios were not significantly different (P ≥ 0.05) between and among treatment groups. However, significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) were detected in the feed intake and body weight gain at eighth week. Live weight at eighth week was significantly different (P ≤ 0.05) with its values ranging between 503.32 and 614.93 g for treatments TL_1Ed and T_Neg-, respectively. The dietary treatment of D. edulis leaves, stembark, and seed powder at the two inclusion levels significantly (P ≤ 0.05) decreased the colonies forming unit of Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. as compared with negative control treatment in the eighth week phase. The level of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and the packed cell volume did not differ significantly (P ≥ 0.05) between and among dietary D. edulis treatments. The findings from this research provide crucial information on the efficacy and safety of D. edulis plant parts. This is an important step in testing the potential of the plant in use as a prebiotic in chicken feeds production.

Development and evaluation of doxorubicin self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system with Nigella Sativa oil against human hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

The development of self nano emulsifying co-delivery system of doxorubicin and Nigella sativa oil for potentiating the anticancer effects against HepG2 cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SNEDDS were formulated by using Labrafil and N. sativa oil (3:2% w/w), Kolliphor RH40 (15% w/w), glycerol (5% w/w) as oil phase, surfactant and co-surfactant while deionized water (75% v/v) used as an aqueous phase. Optimized SNEDDS was evaluated for drug release and in vitro anticancer efficacy in liver cancer (HepG2) cell line.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The selected formulation (F6) has a mean particle size of 79.7 nm with PDI 0.098 and the minimum viscosity of 16.42 cps with % transmittance of 1.332 with maximum drug release of 96.968% in 32 h as compared to DOX alone. Stability data showed stable emulsion in both 25⁰C and -4⁰C. F6 showed improved efficacy in HepG2 cells by cytotoxicity, showed significant results p<.05 with 2.5 μg/ml of (inhibitory concentration) IC50.

CONCLUSION

The overall study displayed that co-delivery of DOX and Nigella sativa oil in the form of SNEDDS may be an efficient carrier for further in vivo studies using oral delivery in human hepatocellular carcinoma in mammals.

Growth, carcass traits, cecal microbial counts, and blood chemistry of meat-type quail fed diets supplemented with humic acid and black cumin seeds

OBJECTIVE

The present study attempted to determine safe and sufficient growth promoters in poultry feeding.

METHODS

A total of 520 seven-day-old quail chicks were randomly allotted to eight treatment groups in a 4×2 factorial design experiment to evaluate the effect of different levels of humic acid (HA) and black cumin (BC) seed and their interactions on growth, carcass traits, gut microbes, and blood chemistry of growing quails. Quails were randomly distributed into 8 groups in a 4×2 factorial design, included 4 HA levels (0, 0.75, 1.5, and 2.25 g/kg diet) and 2 BC levels (0 or 5 g/ kg diet).

RESULTS

Increasing HA level associated with a gradual increase in final weight, feed intake and body weight gain along with an improvement in feed conversion ratio. Dietary addition of 5 g BC powder/kg diet gave similar results. The highest level of HA (2.25 g/kg diet) recorded the best values of carcass weight, breast yield, intestinal length, and intestinal weight comparing with the control and other HA levels. Total viable microbial counts decreased (p<0.05) with increasing levels of HA except the intermediate level (1.5 g/kg diet). The concentration of serum cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (excluding that 0.75 g HA) decreased (p<0.05) and high density lipoprotein increased (p = 0.034) along with increasing HA level. The interaction between the 2.25 g HA×5 g gave the best results regarding most studied parameters.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicated that HA combined with BC could be used as effective growth promoters, with the recommended level being 2.25 g HA+5 g BC/kg of quail diet.

Reversal of Doxorubicin-induced Cardiotoxicity by Using Phytotherapy: A Review

Doxorubicin as a chemotherapeutic drug is widely used for the treatment of patients with cancer. However, clinical use of this drug is hampered by its cardiotoxicity, which is manifested as electrocardiographic abnormalities, arrhythmias, irreversible degenerative cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. The precise mechanisms underlying the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin are not clear, but impairment of calcium homeostasis, generation of iron complexes, production of oxygen radicals, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell membrane damage have been suggested as potential etiologic factors. Compounds that can neutralize the toxic effect of doxorubicin on cardiac cells without reducing the drug's antitumor activity are needed. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that herbal medicines and bioactive phytochemicals can serve as effective add-on therapies to reduce the cardiotoxic effects of doxorubicin. This review describes different phytochemicals and herbal products that have been shown to counterbalance doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

Nigella sativa seed extract attenuates the fatigue induced by exhaustive swimming in rats

In previous studies, Nigella sativa (NS) has been studied due to its various physiological and pharmacological activities. However, evidence on the effects of NS on physical fatigue following exhaustive swimming remains limited. In the present study, the authors evaluated the potential beneficial effects of NS against the fatigue activity following exhaustive swimming. Rats were orally administered with NS extract (2 g/kg/day) for 21 days, and the anti-fatigue effect was assessed by exhaustive swimming exercise. The presented results indicated that pre-treatment of NS extract significantly increased the time to exhaustion. In hemodynamic parameters, NS extract increased blood pO₂ and O_2sat, but decreased pCO₂. For underlying mechanisms, NS extract protected depletion of energy, indicated by increased levels of blood pH, glucose and tissue glycogen contents, and decreased levels of blood lactate, tissue lactic dehydrogenase and creatine kinase, when the NS extract was pre-treated. In addition, the NS extract inhibited oxidative stress following exhaustive swimming, as reflected by the results of increased levels of superoxide dismutase and redox ratio, and decreased the level of malondialdehyde when the NS extract was pre-treated. Collectively, the present study demonstrated that NS extract has an anti-fatigue activity against exhaustive swimming by energy restoration and oxidative-stress defense.

Therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cells on experimentally induced hypertensive cardiomyopathy in adult albino rats

Hypertensive heart diseases affect millions of people worldwide. We aimed to investigate the hypertensive left ventricular histological changes and assess the effectiveness of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy in the treatment of hypertensive cardiomyopathy. Adult male albino rats were assigned into two groups: group I (control), group II (Experimental) subdivided into subgroup IIa (hypertensive) and subgroup IIb (stem cell therapy). Left ventricles (LVs) were processed for light and electron microscope. Mallory's trichrome and immunostaining for caspase-3 and desmin were carried out. Hypertension caused left ventricular histological and immunohistochemical changes that had been effectively improved by MSCs therapy.

Anticancer Chemodiversity of Ranunculaceae Medicinal Plants: Molecular Mechanisms and Functions

The buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, comprising more than 2,200 species in at least 62 genera, mostly herbs, has long been used in folk medicine and worldwide ethnomedicine since the beginning of human civilization. Various medicinal phytometabolites have been found in Ranunculaceae plants, many of which, such as alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, have shown anti-cancer activities in vitro and in vivo. Most concerns have been raised for two epiphany molecules, the monoterpene thymoquinone and the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine. At least 17 genera have been enriched with anti-cancer phytometabolites. Some Ranunculaceae phytometabolites induce the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of cancer cells or enhance immune activities, while others inhibit the proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis, or reverse the multi-drug resistance of cancer cells thereby regulating all known hallmarks of cancer. These phytometabolites could exert their anti-cancer activities via multiple signaling pathways. In addition, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion/toxicity properties and structure/activity relationships of some phytometabolites have been revealed assisting in the early drug discovery and development pipelines. However, a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms and functions of Ranunculaceae anti-cancer phytometabolites is lacking. Here, we summarize the recent progress of the anti-cancer chemo- and pharmacological diversity of Ranunculaceae medicinal plants, focusing on the emerging molecular machineries and functions of anti-cancer phytometabolites. Gene expression profiling and relevant omics platforms (e.g. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) could reveal differential effects of phytometabolites on the phenotypically heterogeneous cancer cells.

Oxidative Stress and Liver Morphology in Experimental Cyclosporine A-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Cyclosporine A is an immunosuppressive drug used after organ's transplantation. The adverse effects on such organs as kidney or liver may limit its use. Oxidative stress is proposed as one of the mechanisms of organs injury. The study was designed to elucidate CsA-induced changes in liver function, morphology, oxidative stress parameters, and mitochondria in rat's hepatocytes. Male Wistar rats were used: group A (control) receiving physiological saline, group B cyclosporine A in a dose of 15 mg/kg/day subcutaneously, and group C the CsA-vehicle (olive oil). On the 28th day rats were anesthetized. The following biochemical changes were observed in CsA-treated animals: increased levels of ALT, AST, and bilirubin in the serum, statistically significant changes in oxidative stress parameters, and lipid peroxidation products in the liver supernatants: MDA+4HAE, GSH, GSSG, caspase 3 activity, and ADP/ATP, NAD(+)/NADH, and NADP(+)/NADPH ratios. Microscopy of the liver revealed congestion, sinusoidal dilatation, and focal hepatocytes necrosis with mononuclear cell infiltration. Electron microscope revealed marked mitochondrial damage. Biochemical studies indicated that CsA treatment impairs liver function and triggers oxidative stress and redox imbalance in rats hepatocytes. Changes of oxidative stress markers parallel with mitochondrial damage suggest that these mechanisms play a crucial role in the course of CsA hepatotoxicity.

Thymoquinone Protects against Myocardial Ischemic Injury by Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

The present study was aimed at investigating the cardioprotective activity of thymoquinone (TMQ), an active principle of the herb, Nigella sativa, which is used for the management of various diseases. The present study examined the cardioprotective effect of TMQ in isoproterenol- (ISP-) induced myocardial infarction in rats. Myocardial infarction was induced by two subcutaneous injections of ISP (85 mg/kg) at an interval of 24 hr. TMQ (20 mg/kg) was administered orally for 21 days. ISP-treated rats showed depletion of antioxidants and marker enzymes from myocardium along with lipid peroxidation and enhanced levels of proinflammatory cytokines. ISP also induced histopathological alterations in myocardium. Treatment with TMQ prevented the depletion of endogenous antioxidants and myocyte injury marker enzymes and inhibited lipid peroxidation as well as reducing the levels of proinflammatory cytokines. TMQ pretreatment also reduced myonecrosis, edema, and infiltration of inflammatory cells and showed preservation of cardiomyocytes histoarchitecture. The present study results demonstrate that TMQ exerts cardioprotective effect by mitigating oxidative stress, augmenting endogenous antioxidants, and maintaining structural integrity. The results of the present study indicate that TMQ may serve as an excellent agent alone or as adjuvant to prevent the onset and progression of myocardial injury.

Effects of antioxidant agents against cyclosporine-induced hepatotoxicity

BACKGROUND

To investigate the potential protective antioxidant role of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), melatonin, and allopurinol treatment in cyclosporine (CsA)-induced hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was established in Sprague-Dawley rats by daily administration of CsA. Treatment groups were additionally administered UDCA, melatonin, or allopurinol treatments. Rats that received no CsA and no treatments served as a control group. Liver samples from each group were examined by histopathologic analysis to determine the effects of CsA treatment on liver morphology. Biochemical assays were also used to determine the effect of CsA treatment on liver function, in the presence or absence of UDCA, melatonin, or allopurinol.

RESULTS

CsA treatment induced hepatotoxicity, resulting in sinusoidal dilatation, congestion, infiltration, hydropic degeneration, and loss of glycogen storage in the liver. From a molecular perspective, the CsA treatment increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, decreased levels of reduced glutathione and xanthine oxidase, and decreased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. The CsA treatment also resulted in decreased serum total antioxidant capacity, whereas alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin levels, and total oxidant status were increased. Treatment with UDCA, melatonin, or allopurinol reduced the CsA-induced histopathologic changes, as compared with CsA-treated samples. In addition, UDCA, melatonin, or allopurinol treatment mitigated the CsA-induced effects on glutathione and MDA levels, and on superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, as well as reduced the CsA-mediated perturbations in serum levels of total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, and alkaline phosphatase.

CONCLUSIONS

UDCA, allopurinol, and melatonin may each help to protect against CsA-induced damage to liver tissues, possibly through effects on the antioxidant system.

Nigella sativa L. seeds modulate mood, anxiety and cognition in healthy adolescent males

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Previous studies conducted on animals linked consumption of Nigella sativa L. seeds (NS) to decreased anxiety and improved memory. The present study, which was carried out at a boarding school in Bangladesh, was designed to examine probable effect of NS on mood, anxiety and cognition in adolescent human males.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight healthy adolescent human males aged between 14 to 17 years were randomly recruited as volunteers and were randomly split into two groups: A (n=24) and B (n=24). The treatment procedure for group A and B were one capsule of 500 mg placebo and 500 mg NS respectively once daily for four weeks. All the volunteers were assessed for cognition with modified California verbal learning test-II (CVLT-II), mood with Bond-Lader scale and anxiety with State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) at the beginning and after four weeks of either NS or placebo ingestion.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

No parameter showed statistically significant variation between A and B in measurements in the beginning, but after 4 weeks of one capsule of NS 500 mg intake, there was statistically significant variation of mood within group B but there was not statistically significant variation between group A and B. No significant variation was found in state anxiety within groups and between group A and B but in case of trait anxiety, significant variation was found within group B but not between group A and B. In case of CVLT II, there was significant variation within B in immediate short-term recall at trial 4 and 5 whereas this difference was found only in case of trial 5 between group A and B. Within group B, short term-free recall, long-term free recall and long-term cued recall had statistical difference whereas between group A and B long-term free recall and long-term cued recall had statistical difference. No parameters had significant variation within group A after placebo intake for 4 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the 4 weeks study period, the use of NS as a nutritional supplement been observed to- stabilize mood, decrease anxiety and modulate cognition positively. However, long term study is suggested before using NS extensively.

Thymoquinone treatment against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

AIM

In this study, we aimed to examine the efficacy of thymoquinone (TQ) treatment in acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity in rats.

METHODS

Forty Wistar Albino rats were used for the study (four groups, with 10 rats for each group). Animals in the control group were not given any medication. In the thymoquinone (TQ) group, animals were given three times 5 mg/kg oral thymoquinone for every six hours, which equals to a total dose of 15 mg/kg. In the acetaminophen (APAP) group, animals were given APAP at a single dose of 500 mg/kg orally. In the APAP + TQ group, animals were given 500 mg/kg APAP orally followed by three doses of TQ at a 15 mg/kg total dose in an 18-h time interval. All animals were sacrificed at the 24th hour. Alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartat amino transferase (AST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), glutathione peroxides (GSH-Px), and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities were measured in rat blood. Histopathological examination was also performed.

RESULTS

Serum ALT, AST levels, GSSG, and SOD activity as well as the serum and tissue MDA levels were found to be higher in the APAP group than in the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Likewise, serum GSH-Px activity was found to be lower in the APAP group (p ≤ 0.001). In contrast, in the APAP + TQ group, serum ALT, AST levels, GSSG, SOD activity and the serum and tissue MDA levels were found to be lower compared to that of the APAP group. This difference was statistically significant (p ≤ 0.001). In the APAP + TQ group, the GSH-Px activity was found to be significantly higher compared to the APAP group (p < 0.05). In contrast to this finding, the GSH-Px activity in the APAP + TQ group was found to be lower than that of the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Histopathological analysis revealed significant liver necrosis and toxicity with a high dose of APAP where TQ treatment was related with significantly lower liver injury scores.

CONCLUSION

TQ treatment may have an important therapeuthic effect via the upregulation of antioxidant systems in the APAP-induced liver hepatotoxicity in rats.

Use of antioxidants to prevent cyclosporine a toxicity

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a potent immunosuppressor that is widely used in transplant surgery and the treatment of several autoimmune diseases. However, major side effects of CsA such as nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity and cardiovascular diseases have substantially limited its usage. Although molecular mechanisms underlying these adverse effects are not clearly understood, there is some evidence that suggests involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) . In parallel, protective effects of various antioxidants have been demonstrated by many research groups. Extensive studies of CsA-induced nephrotoxcity have confirmed that the antioxidants can restore the damaged function and structure of kidney. Subsequently, there have appeared numerous reports to demonstrate the positive antioxidant effects on liver and other organ damages by CsA. It may be timely to review the ideas to envisage the relationship between ROS and the CsA-induced toxicity. This review is comprised of a brief description of the immunosuppressive action and the secondary effects of CsA, and a synopsis of reports regarding the antioxidant treatments against the ROS-linked CsA toxicity. A plethora of recent reports suggest that antioxidants can help reduce many CsA’s adverse effects and therefore might help develop more effective CsA treatment regimens.

Cardiovascular benefits of black cumin (Nigella sativa)

Black Cumin (Nigella sativa), which belongs to the botanical family of Ranunculaceae, commonly grows in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Western Asia. Its ripe fruit contains tiny black seeds, known as "Al-Habba Al-Sauda" and "Al-Habba Al-Barakah" in Arabic and black seed or black cumin in English. Seeds of Nigella sativa are frequently used in folk medicine in the Middle East and some Asian countries for the promotion of good health and the treatment of many ailments. However, data for the cardiovascular benefits of black cumin are not well-established. We reviewed the literature from 1960 to March 2012 by using the following key words: "Nigella sativa," "black seeds," and "thymoquinone." Herein, we discussed the most relevant articles to find out the role of Nigella sativa in the cardiovascular diseases spectrum especially when there is a paucity of information and need of further studies in human to establish the utility of Nigella sativa in cardiovascular system protection.

The effect of Nigella sativa Linn. seed on memory, attention and cognition in healthy human volunteers

BACKGROUND

Experimental evidences have demonstrated that Nigella sativa Linn. seed (NS) has positive modulation effects on aged rats with memory impairments, prevents against hippocampal pyramidal cell loss and enhances consolidation of recall capability of stored information and spatial memory in rats. NS has neuroprotective, nephroprotective, lung protective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective activities as established by previous studies on animals. Several clinical trials with NS on human have also demonstrated beneficial effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of NS on memory, attention and cognition in healthy elderly volunteers. Furthermore, safety profile of NS was assessed during the nine-week study period.

METHODS

Forty elderly volunteers were recruited and divided randomly into group A and group B--each consisting of 20 volunteers. The treatment procedure for group A was 500 mg NS capsule twice daily for nine weeks and Group B received placebo instead of NS in the similar manner. All the volunteers were assessed for neuropsychological state and safety profile twice before treatment and after nine weeks. The neuropsychological tests were logical memory test, digit span test, Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test, letter cancellation test, trail making test and stroop test. Safety profile was assessed by measuring biochemical markers of Cardiac (total cholesterol, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, creatine kinase-MB); Liver (aspartate aminotransferase, alanin aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, bilirubin) and Kidney (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) through using commercial kits.

RESULTS

There was significant difference (p<0.05) in the score of logical memory test-I and II, total score of digit span, 30 min delayed-recall, percent score in Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test, time taken to complete letter cancellation test, time taken in trail making test-A and test-B, score in part C of stroop test due to ingestion of NS for nine weeks. There were not statistically significant changes (p>0.05) in any of the biochemical markers of cardiac, liver, kidney function during this nine-week study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study demonstrates the role of NS in enhancing memory, attention and cognition. Therefore, whether NS could be considered as potential food supplement for preventing or slow progressing of Alzheimer disease needs further investigations. However, study with Alzheimer's patients with large population size for longer period of time is recommended before using NS daily and extensive phytochemical investigations are recommended for novel drug discovery from NS for treating cognitive disorders.

Mitigation of obesity-promoted diseases by Nigella sativa and thymoquinone

Obesity is closely associated with increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, insulin resistance, and immune dysfunction, and thus obesity-mitigation strategies should take into account these secondary pathologies in addition to promoting weight loss. Recent studies indicate that black cumin (Nigella sativa) has cardio-protective, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and immune-modulatory properties. While black cumin and/or its major bioactive constituent, thymoquinone have demonstrated bioactivity in a variety of disease models, the mechanisms of action are largely unknown. Given the growing interest in and the use of functional foods and nutraceuticals, as well as the increase in obesity and chronic diseases worldwide, further research into the therapeutic/preventive effects of black cumin may be beneficial.

Protective Effects of Nigella sativa Oil in Hyperoxia-Induced Lung Injury

BACKGROUND

Oxygen-induced lung injury is believed to lead to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants. We have evaluated the beneficial effects of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) on rats with hyperoxia-induced lung injury.

METHODS

Thirty newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups as hyperoxia (95% O(2)), hyperoxia+NSO and control (21% O(2)). Pups in the hyperoxia+NSO group were administered intraperitoneal NSO at a dose of 4ml/kg daily during the study period. Histopathologic, immunochemical, and biochemical evaluations (superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px], malonaldehyde [MDA] and myeloperoxidase [MPO]) were performed.

RESULTS

In the histopathologic and immunochemical evaluation, severity of lung damage was significantly lower in the hyperoxia+NOS group (P<.05). Tissue GSH-Px and SOD levels were significantly preserved, and MDA, MPO levels were significantly lower in the hyperoxia+NSO group (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

NSO significantly reduced the severity of lung damage due to hyperoxia.

Beneficial effects of Nigella sativa oil on intestinal damage in necrotizing enterocolitis

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the beneficial effects of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) on rats with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups as NEC, NEC + NSO, and control. NEC was induced by enteral formula feeding, exposure to hypoxia-hyperoxia and cold stress. Pups in the NEC + NSO group were administered NOS at a dose of 2 ml/kg daily by intraperitoneal route from the first day until the end of the study. Proximal colon and ileum were excised for histopathologic, apoptosis (TUNEL) and biochemical evaluation, including xanthine oxidase (XO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), malonaldehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxdase (MPO) activities.

RESULTS

Pups in the NEC + NOS group had better clinical sickness scores and weight gain compared to the NEC group (p < 0.05). In the macroscopic assessment, histopathologic and apoptosis evaluation (TUNEL), severity of bowel damage was significantly lower in the NEC + NOS group compared to the NEC group (p < 0.05). Tissue GSH-Px and SOD levels were significantly preserved in the NEC + NSO group (p < 0.05), whereas, tissue MDA, MPO levels of the NEC + NSO group were significantly lower than those in the NEC group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NSO significantly reduced the severity of intestinal damage in NEC.

Upregulation of chemoprotective enzymes and glutathione by Nigella sativa (black seed) and thymoquinone in CCl4-intoxicated rats

To examine the hepatoprotective activities of Nigella sativa (Ns) and thymoquinone (TQ) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced hepatotoxicity, the effects of water extract of Ns seeds (50 mg/kg) or TQ (5 mg/kg in corn oil) by gavage for 5 days on detoxifying enzymes and glutathione were compared in healthy and CCl(4)-challenged (1 mL/kg in corn oil, intraperitoneally [ip], a single dose) rats. Both Ns and TQ countered the elevations in serum alanine aminotransferase activity, oxidized glutathione level, and stress ratio caused by CCl(4). Both Ns and TQ ameliorated the reductions in the activities and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of glutathione S-transferase, NAD(P)H-quinone oxidoreductase, and microsomal epoxide hydrolase, as well as the reductions in reduced glutathione and cysteine levels produced by CCl(4). In many instances, Ns was much superior to TQ in providing protection against the damaging effects caused by CCl(4). This protection could be attributed to the induction of chemoprotective enzymes probably through increasing transcription.

Anticancer activities of Nigella sativa (black cumin)

Nigella sativa has been used as traditional medicine for centuries. The crude oil and thymoquinone (TQ) extracted from its seeds and oil are effective against many diseases like cancer, cardiovascular complications, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease etc. It is effective against cancer in blood system, lung, kidney, liver, prostate, breast, cervix, skin with much safety. The molecular mechanisms behind its anticancer role is still not clearly understood, however, some studies showed that TQ has antioxidant role and improves body's defense system, induces apoptosis and controls Akt pathway. Although the anti-cancer activity of N. sativa components was recognized thousands of years ago but proper scientific research with this important traditional medicine is a history of last 2∼3 decades. There are not so many research works done with this important traditional medicine and very few reports exist in the scientific database. In this article, we have summarized the actions of TQ and crude oil of N. sativa against different cancers with their molecular mechanisms.