Curcumin protects the rat liver from CCl4-caused injury and fibrogenesis by attenuating oxidative stress and suppressing inflammation

Dapagliflozin alleviates thioacetamide induced-liver fibrosis in rats via controlling the Nrf2/HO-1 and TLR4/TGF-β1/PI3K signaling pathways

OBJECTIVES

Because liver fibrosis causes several insults that can result in death, it is regarded as an epidemic health issue. As "an inhibitor of the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2)," Dapagliflozin (Dapa) is one of the newest anti-diabetic drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Dapa's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties produced positive impacts in numerous human and animal models. Due to Dapa's previously documented properties, we planned this investigation to elucidate the protective function of Dapa in male rat liver fibrosis caused by thioacetamide (TAA) as well as the expected pathways.

METHODS

There were four groups of 24 rats: a control group, a TAA group that received (100 mg/kg b.wt intraperitoneally twice a week for 6 weeks), "TAA + Dapa" groups that given oral Dapa at (1 and 2 mg/kg b.wt. for 4 weeks in addition to TAA injections).

RESULTS

It was shown that TAA injections increased toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) (509.6%), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) (298.8%), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (330.9%), phosphotidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) (428.9% %), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β1) (416.6%) levels. All of these markers were considerably reduced by Dapa treatment. In addition, reduced glutathione (GSH), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) (79%), albumin, Heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1) (69%), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were all decreased after TAA injection; however, they were restored by Dapa administration. The Dapa-treated groups had higher Nrf2 and HO-1 gene expressions, based on the results of PCR. Biochemical outcomes were validated by histopathological results. Immunohistopathological study revealed that DAPA treatment decreased caspase-3 and alpha-smooth Muscle Actin (αSMA) expression.

CONCLUSION

Due to its interactions with the Nrf2/HO-1 and TLR4 pathways, our research showed that Dapa had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities against TAA-induced liver fibrosis.

Methyl donor ameliorates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by inhibiting inflammation, and fibrosis through the downregulation of EGFR and DNMT-1 expression

Methyl donors regulate the one-carbon metabolism and have significant potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the protective effect of methyl donors against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats using CCl4 at a dose of 1 ml/kg (twice a week for a 4-week, via intraperitoneal route). Subsequently, methyl donor treatments were given orally for the next six weeks while continuing CCl4 administration. After 10 weeks, biochemical, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and qRT-PCR were performed. Methyl donor treatment significantly ameliorated ALT, AST, ALP levels, and oxidative stress associated with CCl4-induced liver injury. The histopathological investigation also demonstrated the hepatoprotective effect of methyl donors against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, showing reduced tissue damage, collagen deposition, and attenuating the expression of the COL1A1 gene. Further, methyl donors inhibited the CCl4-induced increase in DNMT-1 and NF-κB p65 expression with an upregulation of AMPK. Methyl donor downregulated the CCl4-induced increase in inflammatory and fibrosis related gene expression and inhibited the apoptosis with a downregulation of EGFR expression. Here, we provide the first evidence that methyl donor combinations prevent liver fibrosis by attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis through DNMT-1 and EGFR downregulation.

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

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

Curcumin administration mitigates periodontitis-induced tissue damage in hypercholesterolemic rats: a natural preventive approach

This study investigated the preventive effect of curcumin (CUR) on tooth-supporting structures in hypercholesterolemic (HC) rats with periodontitis (P). Wistar rats (8 weeks old) (n = 30) were assigned to six groups based on dietary intake, CUR-piperine combination treatment and P induction. P was induced in four groups using a ligature model. Serum lipid profiles, oxidative stress parameters, radiographic, histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed. HC rats showed elevated serum cholesterol levels (p < 0.001). Moreover, topical administration of CUR did not regulate hypercholesterolemia in this model. The HC diet increased oxidative stress in gingival tissue, exacerbated by P, whereas CUR attenuated reactive species generation (p < 0.001) and reduced catalase (CAT) activity, possibly due to its antioxidant properties. Histological analysis revealed extensive erosive surfaces and osteoclast presence in the P groups, with the HC + P group showing the highest rate of bone resorption. The CUR-treated groups showed less bone resorption and more bone formation, indicating a protective effect. Histomorphometric studies showed a significant increase in bone volume in the CUR groups compared to the P groups (p < 0.001). CUR prevented bone resorption induced by P and HC diet, with larger osteoblastic surfaces and fewer osteoclasts, suggesting inhibition of bone resorption. CUR also prevented collagen fiber destruction caused by the HC diet. Overall, the study suggests a potential therapeutic role for CUR in mitigating periodontal tissue damage associated with hypercholesterolemia and P, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Further research would be needed to validate its clinical efficacy as an adjunctive treatment for P.

Cholinized-Polymer Functionalized Lipid-Based Drug Carriers Facilitate Liver Fibrosis Therapy via Ultrafast Liver-Targeting Delivery

Here, we report novel cholinized-polymer functionalized lipid-based nanoparticles (CP-LNPs) for rapid and highly effective delivery of drugs to the liver, achieving targeting within 10 min and nearly 100% efficiency. In this study, CP-LNPs loaded with a promising antifibrotic agent curcumin (CP-LNPs/Cur) significantly improved the stability of curcumin under physiological conditions and its distribution in the liver. In vitro experiments demonstrated that CP-LNPs/Cur effectively suppressed the proliferation and migration of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs), as evidenced by the decreased expression of α-SMA. Moreover, CP-LNPs/Cur attenuated oxidative stress levels in hepatocytes while improving mitochondrial physiological activity. In vivo antifibrosis studies have shown that CP-LNPs/Cur only require a low dose to significantly alleviate liver injury and collagen deposition, thereby preventing the progression of liver fibrosis. These findings indicated that CP-LNPs exhibit great potential in liver fibrosis therapy benefiting from the novel targeting strategy.

Exploring the mechanism of action of Chinese medicine in regulating liver fibrosis based on the alteration of glucose metabolic pathways

In recent years, metabolic reprogramming in liver fibrosis has become a research hotspot in the field of liver fibrosis at home and abroad. Liver fibrosis is a pathological change caused by chronic liver injury from a variety of causes. Liver fibrosis is a common pathological feature of many chronic liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis B, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis, as well as the pathogenesis of the disease. The development of chronic liver disease into cirrhosis must go through the pathological process of liver fibrosis, in which hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play an important role. Following liver injury, HSC are activated and transdifferentiated into scar-forming myofibroblasts, which drive the trauma healing response and which rely on the deposition of collagen-rich extracellular matrix to maintain tissue integrity. This reaction will continue without strict control, which will lead to excessive accumulation of matrix and liver fibrosis. The mechanisms and clinical studies of liver fibrosis have been the focus of research in liver diseases. In recent years, several studies have revealed the mechanism of HSC metabolic reprogramming and the impact of this process on liver fibrosis, in which glucose metabolic reprogramming plays an important role in the activation of HSC, and it mainly meets the energy demand of HSC activation by upregulating glycolysis. Glycolysis is the process by which one molecule of glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate and produces energy and lactate under anaerobic conditions. Various factors have been found to be involved in regulating the glycolytic process of HSC, including glucose transport, intracellular processing of glucose, exosome secretion, and lactate production, etc. Inhibition of the glycolytic process of HSC can be an effective strategy against liver fibrosis. Currently, the combined action of multiple targets and links of Chinese medicine such as turmeric, comfrey, rhubarb and scutellaria baicalensis against the mechanism of liver fibrosis can effectively improve or even reverse liver fibrosis. This paper summarizes that turmeric extract curcumin, comfrey extract comfreyin, rhubarb, Subtle yang yu yin granules, Scutellaria baicalensis extract oroxylin A and cardamom extract cardamomin affect liver fibrosis by regulating gluconeogenic reprogramming. Therefore, studying the mechanism of action of TCM in regulating liver fibrosis through reprogramming of glucose metabolism is promising to explore new methods and approaches for Chinese Medicine modernization research.

Antioxidant, Antiinflammation, and Antifibrotic Activity of Ciplukan (Physalis angulata L). Extract

Purpose

Physalis angulata Linn. (Ciplukan) is a plant widely used in traditional medicine in subtropical and tropical regions. Most studies focus on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Many studies also reported its therapeutic potential for treating cancer, malaria, hepatitis, rheumatism, liver problems, and tumors, but few studies have reported its anti-fibrosis activity. Here, we aimed to investigate the potential of P. angulata as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that may be correlated with its anti-fibrosis action.

Methods

In our study, we treated 3T3-L1 and TGF-β-induced 3T3-L1 cells with an ethanol extract of P. angulata. We then monitored the cell's response, evaluated the antioxidant activity using an MTT assay, and observed the cells' migration using the cell scratch assay. We used RT-PCR to determine the expression of HIF-1α and IL-6 on TGF-β-induced 3T3-L1 cells.

Results

The ethanol extract of P. angulata showed antioxidant activity and promoted cell proliferation on 3T3-L1 cells. Interestingly, the extract inhibited the migration of TGF-β-induced 3T3-L1 cells. Further analysis revealed that the extract could inhibit HIF-1α expression and suppress IL-6 expression on TGF-β-induced 3T3-L1 cells.

Conclusion

The ethanol extract of P. angulata showed antioxidant and anti-inflammation activities in 3T3-L1 cells. Both activities are associated with the antifibrotic activity of P. angulata's ethanol extract.

Defining the mechanisms behind the hepatoprotective properties of curcumin

As a critical cause of human dysfunctionality, hepatic failure leads to approximately two million deaths per year and is on the rise. Considering multiple inflammatory, oxidative, and apoptotic mechanisms behind hepatotoxicity, it urges the need for finding novel multi-targeting agents. Curcumin is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic roles. Curcumin possesses auspicious health benefits and protects against several diseases with exceptional safety and tolerability. This review focused on the hepatoprotective mechanisms of curcumin. The need to develop novel delivery systems of curcumin (e.g., nanoparticles, self-micro emulsifying, lipid-based colloids, solid lipid nanoparticles, cyclodextrin inclusion, phospholipid complexes, and nanoemulsions) is also considered.

A role for curcumin in preventing liver fibrosis in animals: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to determine the efficacy of curcumin in preventing liver fibrosis in animal models.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on studies published from establishment to November 2023 in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and other databases. The methodological quality was assessed using Sycle's RoB tool. An analysis of sensitivity and subgroups were performed when high heterogeneity was observed. A funnel plot was used to assess publication bias.

Results

This meta-analysis included 24 studies involving 440 animals with methodological quality scores ranging from 4 to 6. The results demonstrated that curcumin treatment significantly improved Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) [standard mean difference (SMD) = -3.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-4.96, -2.83), p < 0.01, I2 = 85.9%], Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)[SMD = - 4.40, 95% CI (-5.40, -3.40), p < 0.01, I2 = 81.2%]. Sensitivity analysis of AST and ALT confirmed the stability and reliability of the results obtained. However, the funnel plot exhibited asymmetry. Subgroup analysis based on species and animal models revealed statistically significant differences among subgroups. Furthermore, curcumin therapy improved fibrosis degree, oxidative stress level, inflammation level, and liver synthesis function in animal models of liver fibrosis.

Conclusion

Curcumin intervention not only mitigates liver fibrosis but also enhances liver function, while concurrently modulating inflammatory responses and antioxidant capacity in animal models. This result provided a strong basis for further large-scale animal studies as well as clinical trials in humans in the future. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024502671.

Curcumin encapsulated in milk small extracellular vesicles as a nanotherapeutic alternative in experimental chronic liver disease

Curcumin is a natural molecule widely tested in preclinical and clinical studies due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Nevertheless, its high hydrophobicity and low bioavailability limit in vivo applications. To overcome curcumin´s drawbacks, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as potential drug delivery systems due to their non-immunogenicity, nanometric size and amphiphilic composition. This work presents curcumin cargo into milk sEV structure and further in vitro and in vivo evaluation as a therapeutic nanoplatform. The encapsulation of curcumin into sEV was performed by two methodologies under physiological conditions: a passive incorporation and active cargo employing saponin. Loaded sEVs (sEVCurPas and sEVCurAc) were fully characterized by physicochemical techniques, confirming that neither methodology affects the morphology or size of the nanoparticles (sEV: 113.3±5.1 nm, sEVCurPas: 127.0±4.5 nm and sEVCurAc: 98.5±3.6 nm). Through the active approach with saponin (sEVCurAc), a three-fold higher cargo was obtained (433.5 µg/mL) in comparison with the passive approach (129.1 µg/mL). These sEVCurAc were further evaluated in vitro by metabolic activity assay (MTT), confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry, showing a higher cytotoxic effect in the tumoral cells RAW264.7 and HepG2 than in primary hepatocytes, specially at high doses of sEVCurAc (4%, 15% and 30% of viability). In vivo evaluation in an experimental model of liver fibrosis confirmed sEVCurAc therapeutic effects, leading to a significant decrease of serum markers of liver damage (ALT) (557 U/L to 338 U/L with sEVCurAc therapy) and a tendency towards decreased liver fibrogenesis and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition.

Protective role of curcumin in disease progression from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Background: Pathological progression from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to liver fibrosis (LF) to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common dynamic state in many patients. Curcumin, a dietary supplement derived from the turmeric family, is expected to specifically inhibit the development of this progression. However, there is a lack of convincing evidence. Methods: The studies published until June 2023 were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases. The SYstematic Review Center for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) approach was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence. StataSE (version 15.1) and Origin 2021 software programs were used to analyze the critical indicators. Results: Fifty-two studies involving 792 animals were included, and three disease models were reported. Curcumin demonstrates a significant improvement in key indicators across the stages of NAFLD, liver fibrosis, and HCC. We conducted a detailed analysis of common inflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, which traverse the entire disease process. The research results reveal that curcumin effectively hinders disease progression at each stage by suppressing inflammation. Curcumin exerted hepatoprotective effects in the dose range from 100 to 400 mg/kg and treatment duration from 4 to 10 weeks. The mechanistic analysis reveals that curcumin primarily exerts its hepatoprotective effects by modulating multiple signaling pathways, including TLR4/NF-κB, Keap1/Nrf2, Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase 3, and TGF-β/Smad3. Conclusion: In summary, curcumin has shown promising therapeutic effects during the overall progression of NAFLD-LF-HCC. It inhibited the pathological progression by synergistic mechanisms related to multiple pathways, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and apoptosis regulation.

The Inhibitory Effect of Geraniol on CCL4-induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Pregnant Mice through the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Background

Hepatotoxicity caused by CCL4 is well known. Geraniol (GNL) has high antioxidant effect that can induces liver regeneration. However, the protective effect of GNL effect on CCL4-induced hepatorenal toxicity in pregnant mice has not yet been studied.

Objective

To investigate whether GNL could protect against oxidative stress induced by CCL4 via the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which is regulated by phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), and has been found to have protective effects on renal and hepatic tissues.

Materials and Methods

Forty-eight female albino mice weighing 25-30 g were randomly allocated to 4 groups: Group I served as a control; Group II received a toxicity-inducing single dose of 15 μL of CCL4 on the 4th day after mating; Group III received 40 mg/kg GNL + CCL4 (with GNL from the 1st day of assimilation to delivery); and Group IV received GNL alone from the 1st day of assimilation to the end of the delivery period. GNL was evaluated for its protective effects on hepatotoxicity in CCL4-treated pregnant mice. Litter size, weight, survival rate, and resorption were recorded. In addition, H & E staining was done for liver and kidney pathology as well as biochemical markers and oxidative markers malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were analyzed.

Results

CCL4 significantly reduced survival rate and increased resorption after exposure. Alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations in the serum, tissue MDA, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine were increased after CCL4 exposure. GNL improved enzyme and antioxidant levels and prevented CCL4-induced hepatic injury in mice. Caspase-3 cleavage was decreased by GNL, which increased PI3K, phosphorylated AKT, Nrf2, and B-cell lymphoma 2.

Conclusion

GNL demonstrates a protective effect against CCl4-induced hepatorenal toxicity, mediated through the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and the upregulation of Nrf2. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic implications of GNL in mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation in liver and kidney tissues.

The effects of curcumin on hepatic T2*MRI and liver enzymes in patients with β-thalassemia major: a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Background: Curcumin present in turmeric has been considered due to its cancer-preventive features, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial with a reasonable sample size and longer intervention period was conducted to investigate how oral curcumin affected cardiac and hepatic T2*MRI and liver enzymes in patients with β-thalassemia major. Method: This clinical trial study was conducted on 171 patients over 5 years old. The subjects were randomly divided into a curcumin-treatment group and a placebo group to receive either curcumin capsules twice daily or placebo for 6 months. Patients were examined once a month for 6 months to receive capsules and measure the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), direct and total bilirubin, ferritin and cardiac and hepatic T2*MRI. Result: There was a significant decrease in levels of AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin (direct and total) in the curcumin group compared with the placebo group by the end of the study (p < 0.05). The levels of serum ferritin remained unchanged in both groups at the end of the follow-up period (p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the curcumin and placebo groups at baseline values or at the end of the study of cardiac and hepatic T2*MRI and serum magnesium. Conclusion: Administration of curcumin has some beneficial effects on liver function by reducing liver enzymes in patients with beta-thalassemia major.

Gentiopicroside ameliorates CCl4-induced liver injury in mice by regulating the PPAR-γ/Nrf2 and NF-κB/IκB signaling pathways

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the mechanisms by which gentiopicroside protects against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury.

METHODS

Male mice were randomly assigned to the control; CCl4; bifendate 100 mg/kg; or gentiopicroside 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg groups. Both vehicle and drugs were administered intragastrically for 7 days. Mice were administered CCl4 intraperitoneally 1 hour after the last drug dose. After 24 hours, we collected blood and liver samples for testing.

RESULTS

Gentiopicroside significantly reduced serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase activities with corresponding reductions in hepatocyte denaturation and necrosis. Gentiopicroside enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities and glutathione levels and reduced heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) activity and malondialdehyde levels in the liver, and these effects were attributed to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation. Meanwhile, gentiopicroside significantly downregulated HO-1 and upregulated SOD and GSH-Px at the mRNA level in the liver. Furthermore, gentiopicroside significantly suppressed serum tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β secretion, which was associated with the inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)/inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB).

CONCLUSIONS

Gentiopicroside ameliorated CCl4-induced liver injury in mice via the PPAR-γ/Nrf2 and NF-κB/IκB pathways.

Exploring the role of ATP-sensitive potassium channel, eNOS, and P-glycoprotein in mediating the hepatoprotective activity of nicorandil in methotrexate-induced liver injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent; however, its clinical use is challenged by various types of injuries, including hepatotoxic side effects. Therefore, finding new protective drugs against MTX-induced toxicities is a critical need. Moreover, the different mechanisms mediating such effects are still not clear. The current study aimed to evaluate the possible ameliorative action of nicorandil (NIC) in MTX-induced hepatotoxicity and examine the roles of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and P-glycoprotein (P-gp).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six male Wistar albino rats were used. NIC (3 mg/kg/day) was given orally for 2 weeks, and hepatotoxicity was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day of the experiment. We confirmed the role of KATP by co-administering glimepiride (GP) (10 mg/kg/day) 30 min before NIC. The measured serum biomarkers were [alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST)], total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NOx), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and P-gp. Histopathology, eNOS, and caspase-3 immunoexpression were evaluated.

RESULTS

The MTX group displayed hepatotoxicity in the form of elevations of ALT, AST, MDA, NOx, and caspase-3 immunoexpression. Furthermore, the histopathological examination showed marked liver injury. TAC, SOD, P-gp, and eNOS immunoexpression showed significant inhibition. In the protective group, all parameters improved (P value < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NIC has an ameliorative action against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity, most probably via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic functions together with the modulation of the KATP channel, eNOS, and P-glycoprotein.

Jasminum humile (Linn) ameliorates CCl4-induced oxidative stress by regulating ER stress, inflammatory, and fibrosis markers in rats

Jasminum humile (Linn) is highly valued for its medicinal properties. The pulp and decoction made from its leaves are effective for skin diseases. Juice prepared from roots is used against ringworm illness. Our current study aims to illustrate the non-toxicity and protective potential of methanol extract of Jasminum humile (JHM) against CCl₄-induced oxidative stress in the liver of rats. Qualitative phytochemical screening, total flavonoids (TFC), and total phenolic content (TPC) assays were performed with JHM. The toxicity of the plant was estimated by treating female rats at different JHM doses while to assess anti-inflammatory potential of plant nine groups of male rats (six rats/group) received different treatments such as: CCl₄ only (1 ml/kg mixed with olive oil in a ratio of 3:7), silymarin (200 mg/kg) + CCl₄, different doses of JHM alone at a ratio of 1:2:4, and JHM (at a ratio of 1:2:4) + CCl₄, and were examined for different antioxidant enzymes, serum markers, and histological changes, while mRNA expression of stress, inflammatory and fibrosis markers were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Different phytochemicals were found in JHM. A high amount of total phenolic and flavonoid content was found (89.71 ± 2.79 mg RE/g and 124.77 ± 2.41 mg GAE/g) in the methanolic extract of the plant. Non-toxicity of JHM was revealed even at higher doses of JHM. Normal levels of serum markers in blood serum and antioxidant enzymes in tissue homogenates were found after co-administration of JHM along with CCl₄. However, CCl₄ treatment caused oxidative stress in the liver by enhancing the levels of stress and inflammatory markers and reducing antioxidant enzyme levels, while JHM treatment showed significant (P < 0.05) downregulation was in mRNA expression of those markers. Investigation of mechanism of specific signaling pathways related to apoptosis and clinical trials to assess safety and efficacy of optimal dosage of Jasminum humile will be helpful to develop FDA-approved drug.

A micronutrient mixture with collagen peptides, probiotics, cannabidiol, and diet may reduce aging, and development and progression of age-related alzheimer's disease, and improve its treatment

Human aging involves gradual decline in organ functions leading to organ specific age-related chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although advances in the development of new drugs, novel surgical procedures, improved diet and lifestyle, have resulted in doubling of lifespan of humans, the quality of life in many cases remains poor because of increased incidence of age-related chronic diseases. Using experimental models of accelerated aging, several cellular defects associated with aging and AD have been identified. Some cellular defects due to increased oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, autophagy defects, mitochondrial dysfunction, and imbalances in the composition probiotics in favor of harmful bacteria over beneficial bacteria are common to both aging and AD, while others such as telomere attrition, loss of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, failure of DNA repair system, and impaired immune function are unique to aging; and some such as increased production of beta-amyloids, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and abnormal behaviors are unique to AD. It is suggested that supplementation with a micronutrient mixture, probiotics, collagen peptides, CBD, and modifications in the diet and lifestyle may reduce the aging processes, and the development, progression of AD, and improve the treatments of this disease.

Linum corymbulosum Protects Rats against CCl4-Induced Hepatic Injuries through Modulation of an Unfolded Protein Response Pathway and Pro-Inflammatory Intermediates

Liver fibrosis is a major pathological feature of chronic liver disease and effective therapies are limited at present. The present study focuses on the hepatoprotective potential of L. corymbulosum against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in rats. Analysis of Linum corymbulosum methanol extract (LCM) using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) revealed the presence of rutin, apigenin, catechin, caffeic acid and myricetin. CCl4 administration lowered (p < 0.01) the activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione (GSH) content as well as soluble proteins, whereas the concentration of H2O2, nitrite and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was higher in hepatic samples. In serum, the level of hepatic markers and total bilirubin was elevated followed by CCl4 administration. The expression of glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), x-box binding protein-1 total (XBP-1 t), x-box binding protein-1 spliced (XBP-1 s), x-box binding protein-1 unspliced (XBP-1 u) and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) was enhanced in CCl4-administered rats. Similarly, the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemo attractant protein-1 (MCP-1) was strongly increased with CCl4 administration to rats. Co-administration of LCM along with CCl4 to rats lowered (p < 0.05) the expression of the above genes. Histopathology of the liver showed hepatocyte injury, leukocyte infiltration and damaged central lobules in CCl4-treated rats. However, LCM administration to CCl4-intoxicated rats restored the altered parameters towards the levels of control rats. These outcomes indicate the existence of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents in the methanol extract of L. corymbulosum.

A review of edible plant-derived natural compounds for the therapy of liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis has a high incidence worldwide and is the common pathological basis of many chronic liver diseases. Liver fibrosis is caused by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix and concomitant collagen accumulation in livers and can lead to the development of liver cirrhosis and even liver cancer. A large number of studies have provided evidence that liver fibrosis can be blocked or even reversed by appropriate medical interventions. However, the antifibrosis drugs with ideal clinical efficacy are still insufficient. The edible plant-derived natural compounds have been reported to exert effective antifibrotic effects with few side-effects, representing a kind of promising source for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this article, we reviewed the current progress of the natural compounds derived from dietary plants in the treatment of liver fibrosis, including phenolic compounds (capsaicin, chlorogenic acid, curcumin, ellagic acid, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, resveratrol, sinapic acid, syringic acid, vanillic acid and vitamin E), flavonoid compounds (genistein, hesperidin, hesperetin, naringenin, naringin and quercetin), sulfur-containing compounds (S-allylcysteine, ergothioneine, lipoic acid and sulforaphane) and other compounds (betaine, caffeine, cucurbitacin B, lycopene, α-mangostin, γ-mangostin, ursolic acid, vitamin C and yangonin). The pharmacological effects and related mechanisms of these compounds in in-vivo and in-vitro models of liver fibrosis are focused.

Potent hepatoprotective activity of common rattan (Calamus rotang L.) leaf extract and its molecular mechanism

BACKGROUND

Calamus rotang L. (CR) is an Indian shrub. The leaves and other organs of the plant are traditionally used in India for treatment of various diseases. The in vitro antioxidant property of the leaves extract was previously established. Thus, the current study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of CR ethyl acetate extract at a dose of 350 mg/kg on CCl4 induced hepatotoxic rats through different mechanisms.

METHODS

Histopathological examination of the treated rats' group in comparison with positive and negative controls were performed. Quantitative measuring of the proinflammatory cytokines (TNF α), inflammatory regulators (Arginase, PPAR α) and the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 in comparison with positive and negative control groups was achieved using immunohistochemical examination. HPLC profiling of the polyphenol contents and molecular docking of the identified compounds against BH3 proapoptotic protein were correspondingly studied to evaluate the potential antiapoptotic property.

RESULTS

The CR extract greatly protects the liver tissue through the suppression of TNF α, arginase and PPAR α induced by CCl4 as well as its enhancement of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein. Fourteen polyphenols of different classes were identified in CR extract and tested via molecular docking for their potential antiapoptotic activities against BH3 protein. Naringin, rutin, 7-hydroxy flavone, and ellagic acid compounds exhibit the highest affinity and potential inhibition of pro-apoptotic protein BH3 via molecular docking study.

CONCLUSIONS

The ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves of C. rotang is rich in polyphenols that exhibited potent hepatoprotective effect on CCl4 induced hepatotoxic rats through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-steatosis and antiapoptotic properties.

Evolutionary Origins of Metabolic Reprogramming in Cancer

Metabolic changes that facilitate tumor growth are one of the hallmarks of cancer. These changes are not specific to tumors but also take place during the physiological growth of tissues. Indeed, the cellular and tissue mechanisms present in the tumor have their physiological counterpart in the repair of tissue lesions and wound healing. These molecular mechanisms have been acquired during metazoan evolution, first to eliminate the infection of the tissue injury, then to enter an effective regenerative phase. Cancer itself could be considered a phenomenon of antagonistic pleiotropy of the genes involved in effective tissue repair. Cancer and tissue repair are complex traits that share many intermediate phenotypes at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels, and all of these are integrated within a Systems Biology structure. Complex traits are influenced by a multitude of common genes, each with a weak effect. This polygenic component of complex traits is mainly unknown and so makes up part of the missing heritability. Here, we try to integrate these different perspectives from the point of view of the metabolic changes observed in cancer.

The Characteristics and Mortality of Chinese Herbal Medicine Users among Newly Diagnosed Inoperable Huge Hepatocellular Carcinoma (≥10 cm) Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study with Exploration of Core Herbs

For patients with inoperable huge hepatocellular carcinoma (H-HCC, tumor size ≥10 cm), treatment options are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of patients with H-HCC who use Chinese herbal medicine (CHM). Multi-institutional cohort data were obtained from the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2018. All patients were followed up for 3 years or until the occurrence of death. Characteristics of CHM users and risk of all-cause mortality were assessed, and core CHMs with potential pharmacologic pathways were explored. Among 1618 patients, clinical features of CHM users (88) and nonusers (1530) were similar except for lower serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) and higher serum albumin levels in CHM users. CHM users had significantly higher 3 year overall survival rates (15.0% vs. 9.7%) and 3 year liver-specific survival rates (13.4% vs. 10.7%), about 3 months longer median survival time, and lower risk of all-cause mortality. Core CHMs were discovered from the prescriptions, including Hedyotis diffusa Willd combined with Scutellaria barbata D.Don, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge., Curcuma longa L., Rheum palmatum L., and Astragalus mongholicus Bunge. CHM use appears safe and is possibly beneficial for inoperable H-HCC patients; however, further clinical trials are still required.

The potential role of ischaemia-reperfusion injury in chronic, relapsing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Long COVID, and ME/CFS: evidence, mechanisms, and therapeutic implications

Ischaemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury, initiated via bursts of reactive oxygen species produced during the reoxygenation phase following hypoxia, is well known in a variety of acute circumstances. We argue here that I-R injury also underpins elements of the pathology of a variety of chronic, inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, ME/CFS and, our chief focus and most proximally, Long COVID. Ischaemia may be initiated via fibrin amyloid microclot blockage of capillaries, for instance as exercise is started; reperfusion is a necessary corollary when it finishes. We rehearse the mechanistic evidence for these occurrences here, in terms of their manifestation as oxidative stress, hyperinflammation, mast cell activation, the production of marker metabolites and related activities. Such microclot-based phenomena can explain both the breathlessness/fatigue and the post-exertional malaise that may be observed in these conditions, as well as many other observables. The recognition of these processes implies, mechanistically, that therapeutic benefit is potentially to be had from antioxidants, from anti-inflammatories, from iron chelators, and via suitable, safe fibrinolytics, and/or anti-clotting agents. We review the considerable existing evidence that is consistent with this, and with the biochemical mechanisms involved.

Red Palm Oil Ameliorates Oxidative Challenge and Inflammatory Responses Associated with Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Hepatic Injury by Modulating NF-κβ and Nrf2/GCL/HO-1 Signaling Pathways in Rats

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a well-conserved cell wall component of Gram positive bacteria, exerts its toxic effects via inducing oxidative and pro-inflammatory responses. Red palm oil (RPO) is a unique natural product with a balanced ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, with reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we assess the protective effect and mechanistic action of RPO using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatic injury model. Male Wistar rats were assigned into four groups (10 animals/group): normal control (NC), RPO, LPS and RPO + LPS. Animals in the RPO and RPO + LPS groups were administered RPO (200 μL/day) for 28 days. On the 27th day of experiment, animals in LPS and RPO + LPS groups were injected with LPS (0.5 mg/kg body weight). Animals were sacrificed 24 h later, and blood and liver tissues harvested for biochemical and molecular analysis. RPO resolved hepatic histological dysfunction induced by LPS, and lowered alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase activities in the serum. Hepatic malondialdehyde and conjugated dienes, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and TNFα were significantly diminished (p < 0.05) by RPO pre-treatment. Activity of hepatic antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, as well as glutathione redox status (GSH:GSSG), and markers of antioxidant capacity that decreased as a result of LPS injection were improved by RPO pre-treatment. Mechanistically, RPO up-regulated mRNA expression of redox sensitive transcription factor Nrf2 and its downstream targets GCL and HO-1, while also suppressing the expression of NFκβ and associated inflammatory protein, Iκβ kinase (IκKβ). In conclusion, this study highlights the ameliorating effects of RPO against LPS-induced hepatic injury and revealed the Nrf2/GCL/HO-1 and NFκβ signaling axis as potential contributing mechanisms.

Production of a Yogurt Drink Enriched with Golden Berry (Physalispubescens L.) Juice and Its Therapeutic Effect on Hepatitis in Rats

Fermented dairy products have been associated with multiple health benefits. The present study aimed to produce a functional yogurt drink fortified with golden berry juice and assess its therapeutic effect on hepatitis rats. Thirty male albino rats were randomly divided into two major groups. The first group included the control (-) animals (six rats) and was fed a standard diet, whereas the second group included 24 rats that were fed a standard diet and injected with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 2 weeks to trigger chronic damage of the liver (hepatitis); they were then divided into four groups (six rats/group): Group 2: hepatitis, fed on a standard diet as a positive control group; Group 3: received a basal diet with 5 mL of the yogurt drink; Group 4: received a basal diet with 5 mL of the yogurt drink fortified with 10% golden berry juice. Group 5: received a basal diet with 5 mL of the yogurt drink fortified with 20% golden berry juice. Various biological parameters were determined. Yogurt drink treatments were evaluated for their chemical, phytochemical, and sensory properties, as well as for their effects on hepatoprotective activity by determining various biochemical parameters. We found that the yogurt drinks containing golden berry juice exhibited no significant differences in fat, protein, and ash content compared with the control samples. Moreover, the yogurt drinks containing golden berry juice exhibited the highest content of total phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and organoleptic scores among all treatments. In addition, rats fed on a diet fortified with yogurt drinks containing golden berry juice for 8 weeks exhibited higher potential hepatoprotective effects compared with the liver injury control group. This improvement was partly observed in the group that received the yogurt drink containing golden berry juice. Therefore, we concluded that golden berry juice can be recommended as a natural additive in the manufacture of functional yogurt drinks, as it showed a potential hepatoprotective effect in rats with hepatitis.

Curcumin induces peripheral antinociception by opioidergic and cannabinoidergic mechanism: Pharmacological evidence

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is one of the compounds present in plants of the genus Curcuma sp., being very used not only as condiment but also with medicinal purposes. As an analgesic, papers highlight the efficacy of curcumin in the treatment of various types of pain.

AIMS

In this study we evaluated the peripheral antinociceptive effect of curcumin and by which mechanisms this effect is induced.

MAIN METHODS

The mice paw pressure test was used on animals which had increased pain sensitivity by intraplantar injection of carrageenan. All the drugs were administered in the right hind paw.

KEY FINDINGS

Curcumin was administered to the right hind paw animals induced antinociceptive effect. Non -selective antagonist of opioid receptors naloxone reverted the antinociceptive effect induced by curcumin. Selective antagonists for μ, δ and κ opioid receptors clocinnamox, naltrindole and nor- binaltorphimine, respectively, reverted the antinociceptive effect induced by curcumin. Bestatin, enkephalinases inhibitor that degrade peptides opioids, did not change the nociceptive response. Selective antagonists for CB₁ and CB₂ cannabinoid receptors, AM251 and AM630, respectively, reversed the antinociceptive effect induced by curcumin. The MAFP inhibitor of the enzyme FAAH which breaks down anandamide, JZL184, enzyme inhibitor MAGL which breaks down the 2-AG, as well as the VDM11 anandamide reuptake inhibitor potentiated the antinociceptive effect of curcumin.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results suggest that curcumin possibly peripheral antinociception induced by opioid and cannabinoid systems activation and possibly for endocannabinoids and opioids release.

Renoprotective Roles of Curcumin

The use of herb-based therapies is increasing over the past decades. These agents have been reported to provide many beneficial effects in many experimental and clinical studies. Curcumin is one of these agents which has potent pharmacological effects enabling it for the prevent and treatment of many diseases and pathologies such as renal disorders, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. However, the exact molecular mechanisms mediating these renoprotective effects of curcumin are not well established. So, in the current study, we surveyed for possible renoprotective roles of curcumin and concluded how curcumin protects against renal injuries.

The Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Value of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment

Invasion and metastasis are the main reasons for the high mortality of liver cancer, which involve the interaction of tumor stromal cells and malignant cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the major constituents of tumor stromal cells affecting tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. The heterogeneous properties and sources of CAFs make both tumor-supporting and tumor-suppression effects possible. The mechanisms for CAFs in supporting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression can be categorized into upregulated aggressiveness and stemness, transformed metabolism toward glycolysis and glutamine reductive carboxylation, polarized tumor immunity toward immune escape of HCC cells, and increased angiogenesis. The tumor-suppressive effect of fibroblasts highlights the functional heterogenicity of CAF populations and provides new insights into tumor–stromal interplay mechanisms. In this review, we introduced several key inflammatory signaling pathways in the transformation of CAFs from normal stromal cells and the heterogeneous biofunctions of activated CAFs. In view of the pleiotropic regulation properties of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and heterogeneous effects of CAFs, we also introduced the application and values of TCM in the treatment of HCC through targeting CAFs.

An anti-DR5 antibody-curcumin conjugate for the enhanced clearance of activated hepatic stellate cells

Anti-death receptor 5 (DR5) antibody is a potential therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis because it exhibits anti-fibrotic effects by inducing the apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are responsible for hepatic fibrogenesis. However, the clinical applications of anti-DR5 antibodies have been limited by their low agonistic activity against DR5. In this study, an anti-DR5 antibody-curcumin conjugate (DCC) was prepared to investigate its effect on the clearance of activated HSCs. The DCC was synthesized through a coupling reaction between a maleimide-functionalized curcumin derivative and a thiolated anti-DR5 antibody. No significant differences were observed in the uptake behaviors of activated HSCs between the bare anti-DR5 antibodies and DCC. Owing to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin, DCC-treated HSCs produced much lower levels of reactive oxygen species and inducible nitric oxide synthase than the bare anti-DR5 antibody-treated HSCs. Additionally, the anti-fibrotic effects of DCC on activated HSCs were more prominent than those of the bare anti-DR5 antibodies, as demonstrated by the immunocytochemical analysis of α-smooth muscle actin. DCC preferentially accumulated in the liver after its systemic administration to mice with liver fibrosis. Thus, DCC may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for treating liver fibrosis.

Magnetic Fe3 O4 @graphene oxide improves the therapeutic effects of embryonic stem cells on acute liver damage

OBJECTIVE

Acute liver failure is usually associated with inflammation and oxidation of hepatocytes and has high mortality and resource costs. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) has occasionally been reported to have no beneficial effect due to poor transplantation and the survival of implanted cells. Recent studies showed that embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived MSCs are an alternative for regenerative medicine. On the other hand, graphene-based nanostructures have proven useful in biomedicine. In this study, we investigated whether magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) improved the effects of ESC-MSC conditioned medium (CM) on protecting hepatocytes and stimulating the regeneration of damaged liver cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To provide a rat model of acute liver failure, male rats were injected intraperitoneally with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ). The rats were randomly divided into six groups, namely control, sham, CCl4 , ESC-MSC-CM, MGO and ESC-MSC-CM + MGO. In the experimental groups, the rats received, depending on the group, 2 ml/kg body weight CCl4 and either ESC-MSC-CM with 5 × 106 MSCs or 300 μg/kg body weight MGO or both. Symptoms of acute liver failure appeared 4 days after the injection. All groups were compared and analysed both histologically and biochemically 4 days after the injection. Finally, the results of ESC-MSC-CM and MSC-CM were compared.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the use of MGO enhanced the effect of ESC-MSC-CM on reducing necrosis, inflammation, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase in the CCl4 -induced liver failure of the rat model. Also, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) was significantly upregulated after treatment with MGO. Also, the results showed that the ESC-MSC-CM has more efficient effective compared to MSC-CM.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic graphene oxide improved the hepatoprotective effects of ESC-MSC-CM on acute liver damage, probably by suppressing necrosis, apoptosis and inflammation of hepatocytes.

Curc-mPEG454, a PEGylated curcumin derivative, as a multi-target anti-fibrotic prodrug

Our previous studies demonstrated that Curc-mPEG454, a curcumin derivative modified with short-chain polyethylene glycol (PEG), not only increased the blood concentration of curcumin, but also retained its anti-inflammatory activity. Here, we aimed to evaluate the anti-fibrotic effect of Curc-mPEG454 on a rat liver fibrosis model induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄), and to explore the underlying mechanisms by integrating our total liver RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data with recent liver single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies. 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg Curc-mPEG454 treatment significantly reduced the elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) induced by CCl₄, and the incidence of liver cirrhosis decreased from 75% to 37% and 35%, respectively. RNA-seq analysis revealed that Curc-mPEG454 significantly upregulated aldehyde oxidase 1 (AOX1) while downregulated cytochrome p450 26A1 (CYP26A1) and cytochrome p450 26B1 (CYP26B1) resulting in restoring liver retinoic acid (RA) level, increased glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) expression to synthesize hepatic glutathione (GSH), and inhibited liver inflammation via down-regulating the Prostaglandin E Synthase 2 (PTGES2)/prostacyclin E2 (PGE2) signaling. Integrating scRNA-seq data revealed that Curc-mPEG454 effectively inhibited the expansion of scar-associated macrophage subpopulation and scar-producing myofibroblasts in the damaged liver, and remodeled the fibrotic niche via regulation of ligand-receptor interactions including platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B)/platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFR-α) signaling. As a multi-target prodrug, PEGylated curcumin deserves further attention and research.

Silica Magnetic Graphene Oxide Improves the Effects of Stem Cell-Conditioned Medium on Acute Liver Failure

OBJECTIVE

Acute liver failure (ALF) is usually associated with inflammation and oxidation of hepatocytes and has high mortality and resource costs. Although mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) has therapeutic effects similar to MSC transplant in treating liver failure, it may not increase survival. On the other hand, graphene-based nanostructures have been proven useful in biomedicine. In this study, we investigated whether silica magnetic graphene oxide (SMGO) improved the effects of MSC-CM in protecting hepatocytes and stimulating the regeneration of damaged liver cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To provide a rat model of ALF, male rats were injected intraperitoneally with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). The rats were randomly divided into six groups, namely control, sham, CCl₄, MSC-CM, SMGO, and MSC-CM + SMGO. In the experimental groups, the rats received, depending on the group, 2 mL/kg body weight CCl₄ and either MSC-CM with 5 × 10⁶ MSCs or 300 μg/kg body weight SMGO or both. Symptoms of ALF appeared 4 days after the injection. All groups were compared and analyzed both histologically and biochemically 4 days after the injection.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the use of SMGO enhanced the effect of MSC-CM in reducing necrosis, inflammation, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in the CCl₄-induced liver failure of the rat model. Also, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) was significantly upregulated after treatment with SMGO.

CONCLUSION

SMGO improved the hepatoprotective effects of MSC-CM on acute liver damage, probably by suppressing necrosis, apoptosis, and inflammation of hepatocytes.

The Effect of Curcumin Supplemsentation on Anthropometric Indices in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is an active molecule present in turmeric and is the main therapeutic compound. There is growing evidence that curcumin could affect various anthropometric indices. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin supplementation on anthropometric indices in obese and overweight individuals.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from inception up to February 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of curcumin supplementation on anthropometric indices including body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), arm circumference (AC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), total body fat (TBF), and visceral fat (VF) in obese and overweight individuals. The Jadad scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies.

RESULT

Twenty-eight randomized controlled trials, comprising 2168 participants, were included in the systematic review. The results of 16 papers indicated that curcumin reduced at least one of the anthropometric indices among individuals with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m². Nevertheless, 12 articles showed that curcumin supplementation was not effective in any of the measured anthropometric factors. The included trials exhibited substantial heterogeneity in terms of the treatment protocol, follow-up duration, curcumin dosage, and background diseases of the participants.

CONCLUSION

Clinical trials that have independently examined the effects of curcumin in obese or overweight individuals are limited. However, available studies indicate that curcumin has beneficial impacts on various anthropometric indices. Further trials with longer duration of interventions are needed to confirm these findings.

Can a Micronutrient Mixture Delay the Onset and Progression of Symptoms of Single-Point Mutation Diseases?

Single-point mutation diseases in which substitution of one nucleotide with another in a gene occurs include familial Alzheimer's disease (fAD), familial Parkinson's disease (fPD), and familial Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease (fCJD) as well as Huntington's disease (HD), sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia. Inevitability of occurrence of these diseases is certain. However, the time of appearance of symptoms could be influenced by the diet, environment, and possibly other genetic factors. There are no effective approaches to delay the onset or progression of symptoms of these diseases. The fact that increased oxidative stress and inflammation significantly contribute to the initiation and progression of these point mutation diseases shows that antioxidants could be useful. The major objectives are (a) to present evidence that increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are associated with selected single-point mutation diseases, such as fAD, fPD, and fCJD, HD, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia; (b) to describe limited studies on the role of individual antioxidants in experimental models of some of these diseases; and (c) to discuss a rationale for utilizing a comprehensive mixture of micronutrients, which may delay the development and progression of symptoms of above diseases by simultaneously reducing oxidative and inflammatory damages.Key teaching pointsSelected single-point mutation diseases and their pattern of inheritanceCharacteristics of each selected single-point mutation diseaseEvidence for increased oxidative stress and inflammation in each diseasePotential reasons for failure of single antioxidants in human studiesRationale for using a comprehensive mixture of micronutrients in delaying the onset and progression of single-point mutation diseases.

Curcumin Affects Leptin-Induced Expression of Methionine Adenosyltransferase 2A in Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibition of JNK Signaling

INTRODUCTION

Obese patients are often accompanied by hyperleptinemia and prone to develop liver fibrosis. Accumulating data including those obtained from human studies suggested the promotion role of leptin in liver fibrosis. The remodeling of the DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism for regulating gene expression and is essential for hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, a key step in liver fibrogenesis. Leptin increases the expression of methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) which is associated with DNA methylation and HSC activation. Curcumin, an active polyphenol of the golden spice turmeric, inhibits leptin-induced HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis. Thus, the present research aimed to investigate the influence of curcumin on the roles of leptin in MAT2A expression in HSCs.

METHODS

The in vivo experiments were conducted by using leptin-deficient obese mice. The gene expressions were examined by Western blot, real-time PCR, promoter activity assay, and immunostaining analysis.

RESULTS

Curcumin reduced leptin-induced MAT2A expression. JNK signaling contributed to leptin-induced increase in MAT2A level, which could be interrupted by curcumin treatment. Curcumin inhibited leptin-induced MAT2A promoter activity by influencing MAT2A promoter fragments between -2,847 bp and - 2,752 bp and between -2,752 bp and +49 bp. The effect of curcumin on leptin-induced MAT2A expression paralleled the reductions in leptin-induced activated HSCs and liver fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

These results might have implications for curcumin inhibition of the liver fibrogenesis in obese patients with hyperleptinemia.

Inulin-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: A Theranostic Platform for Contrast-Enhanced MR Imaging of Acute Hepatic Failure

The present study introduces a superparamagnetic nanocomposite, Fe-Si-In, as a T2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent with a core of iron oxide nanoparticles and a nonporous silica inner shell/carboxymethyl inulin outer shell. Due to its core/shell properties, the structure characterization, biocompatibility, and performance in MRI, as well as its potential as a drug delivery system, were thoroughly evaluated. The results have shown that the synthesized nanocomposite possesses excellent biocompatibility and acceptable magnetization (M_s = 20 emu g^-1). It also has the potential to be a nanocarrier for drug delivery purposes, as evidenced by the results of curcumin administration studies. The developed nanocomposite has shown excellent performance in MRI, while the in vitro relaxivity measurements reveal a stronger T2 relaxivity (r₂ = 223.2 ms) compared to the commercial samples available in the market. Furthermore, the in vivo MRI studies demonstrate an excellent contrast between injured livers and normal ones in rats which again upholds the high performance of Fe-Si-In in MRI diagnostics.

Rapid Two-Photon Fluorescence Imaging of Monoamine Oxidase B for Diagnosis of Early-Stage Liver Fibrosis in Mice

Liver fibrosis could induce cirrhosis and liver cancer, causing serious damages to liver function and even death. Early diagnosis of fibrosis is extremely requisite for optimizing treatment schedule to improve cure rate. In early-stage fibrosis, overexpressed monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) can serve as a biomarker, which greatly contributes to the diagnosis of early liver fibrosis. However, there is still a lack of desired strategy to precisely monitor MAO-B in situ. In this work, we established a two-photon fluorescence imaging method for in vivo detection of MAO-B activity counting on a simply prepared probe, BiPhAA. The BiPhAA could be activated by MAO-B within 10 min and fluoresced brightly. To our knowledge, this BiPhAA-based imaging platform for MAO-B is more rapid than other current detection methods. Furthermore, BiPhAA allowed the dynamic observation of endogenous MAO-B level changes in hepatic stellate cells (LX-2). Through two-photon fluorescence imaging, we observed six times higher fluorescence brightness in the liver tissue of fibrosis mice than that of normal mice, thus successfully distinguishing mice with liver fibrosis from normal mice. Our work offers a simple, fast, and highly sensitive approach for imaging MAO-B in situ and paves a way to the diagnosis of early liver fibrosis with accuracy.

Bone marrow mononuclear cells boosts anti-cytogentical aberration effect of N-acetylcysteine and α-lipoic acid in rat's liver and bone marrow: implication of oxidative and inflammatory pathways

This study investigates the hepatoprotective effect of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) transplantation, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and α-lipoic acid (ALA). Rats were administrated carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) (1 mg/kg, i.p.) twice/week for 8 weeks for the induction of hepatotoxicity. 7 groups of rats were used as follows: Normal control, CCl₄, CCl₄ co-administered with BM-MNCs (1 × 10⁶ in 0.1 ml PBS, i.v.), or NAC (300 mg/kg, p.o) or ALA (100 mg/kg, p.o) single or combination. Liver function was tested by measuring serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and albumin as well as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities in liver homogenates. Besides that, estimation of DNA damage was performed. In addition to Micronucleus test and histopathological investigation. CCl₄ treated rats showed elevation in ALT, AST, TNF-α, IL-6 and MDA accompanied by reduction in ALB, IL-10, SOD, CAT, GPx and TAC and increased the number of DNA breaks in liver tissue, showed many micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs) in bone marrow. NAC, ALA, BM-MNCs and their combination caused a reduction of ALT, AST, while, increase albumin, CAT, TAC, GPx, SOD as compared to CCl₄ treated groups. Also decrease in MDA, IL-6 and TNF-α concurrently with an increase in IL-10. Moreover, BM-MNCs, NAC, ALA, and their combination decreased DNA tail %, and the count of MnPCEs. BM-MNCs combination with NAC or ALA exerted significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cytogenetical aberrations effect compared to each of them alone.HighlightsCCl₄ elevated ALT, AST, TNF-α, IL-6 and MDACCl₄ reduced ALB, IL-10, SOD, CAT, GPx and TACCCl₄ increased the number of DNA breaks in liverNAC, ALA and BM-MNCs reduced ALT, AST, while, increase albumin, CAT, TAC, GPx, SODNAC, ALA and BM-MNCs decreased in MDA, IL-6 and TNF-α and increased IL-10 [Figure: see text].

Polyphenol-rich leaf of Aphanamixis polystachya averts liver inflammation, fibrogenesis and oxidative stress in ovariectomized Long-Evans rats

Aphanamixis polystachya (Wall.) R.Parker, locally known as Pithraj, is a medicinal herb having enormous traditional applications. However, the scientific rationale underlying the ethnomedicinal claims was not well-founded. The current investigation aimed to explore the mechanistic insights of protective effects of ethanol extract of A. polystachya leaf (PT), given orally, on the chemical-intoxicated hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in Long-Evans female overiectomized rats. The GC-MS and HPLC-DAD analysis of PT revealed the presence of several bioactive metabolites, including polyphenolic compounds. Catechin hydrate, caffeic acid, syringic acid, epicatechin and p-coumaric acid have been identified and quantified in the ethanol extract of PT leaf. Intoxication with CCl₄ developed the oxidative stress, fibrosis and inflammation in liver of rats. Moreover, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), nitric oxide (NO), advanced protein oxidation product (APOP) level were found increased; whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in the plasma and liver were decreased in CCl₄ administered rats. Treatment with PT prominently mitigated the oxidative stress (TBARS, NO, APOP), and inflammatory (MPO) markers and improved the endogenous antioxidant enzymes (catalase and SOD) activities in CCl₄-intoxicated rats. Additionally, histological assessment confirmed the clear manifestation of inflammation and fibrosis in the liver of CCl₄-intoxicated rats, which was prevented by PT and silymarin treatment. In conclusion, PT treatment may protect the liver in CCl₄-administered rats, probably by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis, and also augmenting the function of the antioxidant enzymes.

Pathogenesis of NASH and Promising Natural Products

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common clinical condition that can lead to advanced liver diseases. The mechanism of the diaease progression, which is lacking effective therapy, remains obsure. Therefore, there is a need to understand the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for disease development and progression in order to develop innovative therapies. To accomplish this goal, experimental animal models that recapitulate the human disease are necessary. Currently, an increasing number of studies have focused on natural constituents from medicinal plants which have been emerged as a new hope for NASH. This review summarized the pathogenesis of NASH, animal models commonly used, and the promising targets for therapeutics. We also reviewed the natural constituents as potential NASH therapeutic agents.

Curcumin Can be Acts as Effective agent for Prevent or Treatment of Alcohol-induced Toxicity in Hepatocytes: An Illustrated Mechanistic Review

Previous studies have shown that alcohol abuse can cause serious liver damage and cirrhosis. The main pathway for these types of hepatocellular cell neurodegeneration is mitochondrial dysfunction, which causes lipid peroxidation and dysfunction of the glutathione ring and the defect of antioxidant enzymes in alcoholic hepatic cells. Alcohol can also initiate malicious inflammatory pathways and trigger the initiation and activation of intestinal and extrinsic apoptosis pathways in hepatocellular tissues that lead to cirrhosis. Previous studies have shown that curcumin may inhibit lipid peroxidation, glutathione dysfunction and restore antioxidant enzymes. Curcumin also modulates inflammation and the production of alcohol-induced biomarkers. Curcumin has been shown to play a critical role in the survival of alcoholic hepatocellular tissue. It has been shown that curcumin can induce and trigger mitochondrial biogenesis and, by this mechanism, prevent the occurrence of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways in liver cells that have been impaired by alcohol. According to this mechanism, curcumin may protect hepatocellular tissue from alcohol-induced cell degeneration and may therefore survive alcoholic hepatocellular tissue. . Based on these mechanisms, the protective functions of curcumin against alcohol-induced cell degeneration due to oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis events in hepatocellular tissue have been recorded. Hence, in this research, we have attempted to evaluate and analyze the main contribution mechanism of curcumin cell defense properties against alcohol-induced hepatocellular damage, according to previous experimental and clinical studies, and in this way we report findings from major studies.

A Review of Liver Fibrosis and Emerging Therapies

With the increasing burden of liver cirrhosis, the most advanced stage of hepatic fibrosis, there is a need to better understand the pathological processes and mechanisms to target specific treatments to reverse or cease fibrosis progression. Antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and C has effectively treated underlying causes of chronic liver disease and has induced fibrosis reversal in some; however, this has not been targeted for the majority of aetiologies for cirrhosis including alcohol or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Fibrosis, characterised by the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, is caused by chronic injury from toxic, infectious, or metabolic causes. The primary event of fibrogenesis is increased matrix production and scar formation mediated by the hepatic stellate cell, which is the principal cell type involved. Experimental models using rodent and human cell lines of liver injury have assisted in better understanding of fibrogenesis, especially in recognising the role of procoagulant factors. This has led to interventional studies using anticoagulants in animal models with reversal of fibrosis as the primary endpoint. Though these trials have been encouraging, no antifibrotic therapies are currently licenced for human use. This literature review discusses current knowledge in the pathophysiology of hepatic fibrosis, including characteristics of the extracellular matrix, signalling pathways, and hepatic stellate cells. Current types of experimental models used to induce fibrosis, as well as up-to-date anticoagulant therapies and agents targeting the hepatic stellate cell that have been trialled in animal and human studies with antifibrotic properties, are also reviewed.

A Comprehensive Review of Natural Products against Liver Fibrosis: Flavonoids, Quinones, Lignans, Phenols, and Acids

Liver fibrosis resulting from continuous long-term hepatic damage represents a heavy burden worldwide. Liver fibrosis is recognized as a complicated pathogenic mechanism with extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. A series of drugs demonstrate significant antifibrotic activity in vitro and in vivo. No specific agents with ideally clinical efficacy for liver fibrosis treatment have been developed. In this review, we summarized the antifibrotic effects and molecular mechanisms of 29 kinds of common natural products. The mechanism of these compounds is correlated with anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic activities. Moreover, parenchymal hepatic cell survival, HSC deactivation, and ECM degradation by interfering with multiple targets and signaling pathways are also involved in the antifibrotic effects of these compounds. However, there remain two bottlenecks for clinical breakthroughs. The low bioavailability of natural products should be improved, and the combined application of two or more compounds should be investigated for more prominent pharmacological effects. In summary, exploration on natural products against liver fibrosis is becoming increasingly extensive. Therefore, natural products are potential resources for the development of agents to treat liver fibrosis.

Effect of concomitant treatment of curcumin and melatonin on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Cisplatin (CP) is a potent anticancer drug used to treat solid tumors. Its use, however, is dose-limited by its nephrotoxicity. We aimed to compare the effect of melatonin and curcumin given singly, with that of a combination of these two agents on CP-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. CP (6 mg/kg, given once intraperitoneally) induced nephrotoxicity as evidenced by several significant adverse physiological, biochemical and histopathological actions that included a reduction in body weight, increased urine production, and significant alterations in some conventional and novel renal damage indices in plasma, urine and kidneys. CP also elevated several pro-inflammatory cytokines and caused renal oxidative/nitrosative stress. Supplementation with either curcumin (200 mg/kg) or melatonin (10 mg /kg) given singly by oral gavage for eight consecutive days prior to CP injection and four days thereafter, significantly mitigated the adverse renal effects of CP, by attenuating the pro-inflammatory and apoptotic mediators and improving antioxidant competence in renal tissues of CP- treated rats. When curcumin and melatonin were given together, the ameliorative effect was augmented in some of the measured indices e.g. tumor necrosis factor alpha, cystatin C, uric acid, phosphorus in plasma and, urine creatinine and creatinine clearance. Renal platinum concertation was reduced more with curcumin than that with melatonin, while the reduction was maximized when both melatonin and curcumin were given. Pending further pharmacological and toxicological studies, a combination of these two agents is likely to be mor effective in mitigating the adverse renal effects of CP administered to cancer patients.

Curcumin blunts epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes to alleviate hepatic fibrosis through regulating oxidative stress and autophagy

The massive production and activation of myofibroblasts (MFB) is key to the development of liver fibrosis. In many studies, it has been proven that hepatocytes are an important part of MFB, and can be transformed into MFB through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during hepatic fibrogenesis. In our previous study, we confirmed that curcumin inhibited EMT procession and differentiation of hepatocytes into MFB. In addition, in previous studies, it has been shown that autophagy plays an important role in the regulation of cellular EMT procession. In the current study, we showed that curcumin inhibited TGF-β/Smad signaling transmission by activating autophagy, thereby inhibiting EMT. The mechanism of degradative polyubiquitylation of Smad2 and Smad3 is likely through inhibiting tetratricopeptide repeat domain 3 (TTC3) and by inducing ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (SMURF2), which on account of the increase of autophagy in hepatocytes. Curcumin inhibits levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress in hepatocytes by activating PPAR-α, and regulates upstream signaling pathways of autophagy AMPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, leading to an increase of the autophagic flow in hepatocytes. In this study, we confirm that curcumin effectively reduced the occurrence of EMT in hepatocytes and inhibited production of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by activating autophagy, which provides a potential novel therapeutic strategy for hepatic fibrosis.

Effects of intraperitoneal injection of magnetic graphene oxide on the improvement of acute liver injury induced by CCl4

Background

Liver failure is usually associated with the inflammation and oxidation of hepatocytes. Due to their unique properties, graphene and graphene-based nanostructures such as magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) are useful in biomedicine and engineering. In this study, synthesized MGO was used to improve the liver failure induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). The hepatoprotective effects of intraperitoneal injection of MGO on the rat model of CCl₄-induced acute liver failure were investigated.

Materials and methods

In order to provide a rat model of acute liver failure, male rats were intraperitoneally injected with 2 ml/kg body weight CCl₄. In the experimental groups, rats received 2 ml/kg CCl₄ and 300 mg/kg MGO body weight simultaneously. Four days after injection, symptoms of acute liver failure appeared. The control, sham, CCl₄, and CCl₄ + MGO groups were compared and analyzed both histologically and biochemically.

Results

The results indicated that the MGO injection reduced all CCl₄-induced liver failure such as necrosis, fibrosis, inflammation, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the experimental groups of the rat model of acute liver failure.

Conclusion

The hepatoprotective effects of MGO might be due to histopathological suppression and inflammation inhibition in the liver.

Antifibrotic effect of curcumin, N-acetyl cysteine and propolis extract against bisphenol A-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: Prophylaxis versus co-treatment

AIMS

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to induce liver fibrosis in rodents. Therefore, this study examined the protective effect of a triple combination of curcumin (Cur), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and propolis (Prp) extract against BPA-induced hepatic fibrosis.

METHODS

100 Wistar male rats were equally assigned into 10 groups; one group was designated as control. 10 rats were gavaged with BPA (50 mg/kg/day) for 8 wk and left un-treated (BPA group). The remaining 80 rats were divided into 8 groups, distributed in 2 models. Protective model: rats were daily co-treated with BPA and Cur (100 mg/kg, p.o) or NAC (150 mg/kg, p.o) or Prp (200 mg/kg, p.o) or their combination for 8 wk. Preventive model: rats were daily treated with Cur or NAC or Prp or their combination for 4 wk before BPA administration and then in the same manner as protective model.

KEY FINDINGS

Current treatment interventions significantly alleviated BPA-induced hepatic damage and fibrosis. They also restored pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance, shifted cytokine balance towards the anti-inflammatory side, decreasing interleukin-1β/interleukin-10 ratio. Moreover, these compounds seem to exert anti-apoptotic effects by increasing the immunoexpression of B-cell lymphoma 2 in hepatocytes and decreasing hepatic caspase-3 content. Finally, they ameliorated extracellular matrix turn over through down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and up-regulation of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 genetic expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

Current treatments guarded against BPA-induced hepatic fibrosis due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, decreasing extracellular matrix turnover. Interestingly, the triple therapy provided hepatoprotection superior to monotherapy. Besides, prophylactic and concurrent treatments seem to be more effective than concurrent treatments.

Curcumin reduces methionine adenosyltransferase 2B expression by interrupting phosphorylation of p38 MAPK in hepatic stellate cells

The active polyphenol curcumin demonstrates therapeutic effects against various different diseases. Researches revealed the inhibitory roles of curcumin in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and fibrogenesis. HSC activation, a key step in liver fibrogenesis, requires the remodeling of DNA methylation, which is associated with methionine adenosyltransferase II (MATII) composed of catalytic subunit MAT2A and regulatory subunit MAT2B. MATII is essential for HSC activation in vitro. The present researches aimed to investigate the effect of curcumin on MAT2B expression in HSCs in vivo and in vitro. Results demonstrated that curcumin could reduce MAT2B expression in HSCs at multiple levels. The activation of p38 MAPK pathway promoted MAT2B expression in HSCs. The effect of curcumin on MAT2B was through its interruption of p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Knockdown of MAT2B inhibited HSC activation and reduced collagen level in the model of liver fibrosis. Curcumin down-regulation of MAT2B contributed to the inhibitory role of curcumin on HSC activation and collagen expression in mouse livers. This study provided evidences for the effect of curcumin on the expression of MAT2B, an enzyme for the biosynthesis of methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine, in HSCs and demonstrated the function significance of curcumin-induced downregulation of MAT2B in curcumin inhibition of liver fibrosis.