Resveratrol and Montelukast Alleviate Paraquat-Induced Hepatic Injury in Mice: Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis

Targeting angiogenic and proliferative mediators by montelukast & trimetazidine Ameliorates thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats

Liver fibrosis is a significant health complication with the potential to result in serious mortality and morbidity. However, there is no standard treatment due to its complex pathogenesis. The drug montelukast reversibly and selectively antagonizes the cysteinyl-leukotrienes-1 receptor and reduces inflammation; thus, it is used in the treatment of asthma. Trimetazidine, an anti-anginal agent, selectively inhibits the activity of mitochondrial long-chain 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase, inhibition of free fatty acid (FFA) oxidation. This study explores the efficacy of montelukast (5 and 10 mg/kg) and trimetazidine (10-20 mg/kg) against liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) in rats. Impaired liver function tests were significantly improved by montelukast and trimetazidine. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of montelukast and trimetazidine were proved by the inhibition of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) accumulation, with elevation of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase activity, decreased heat shock protein (HSP-70) expression, and a decline in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) levels in liver tissue. Also, the antifibrotic effects were explored by reducing levels of hydroxyproline and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in liver tissue and attenuating hepatic expression of hepatic expression of angiogenic mediator vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) and proliferative mediator Antigen Kiel 67 (Ki-67).

Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor Antagonism by Montelukast to Treat Visual Deficits

Montelukast, a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug for asthma and allergic rhinitis modulates leukotriene (LT) receptors and serves as a critical anti-inflammatory agent. Recent research suggests that the LT signaling pathway targeted by montelukast has broader implications for diseases such as fibrosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, and immune defense. This expanded understanding highlights montelukast's potential for repurposing in conditions involving aberrant stress mechanisms, including ocular diseases marked by inflammation, oxidative stress, ER stress, and apoptosis, among several others. This review delves into montelukast's therapeutic mechanisms across various diseases, draws parallels to ocular conditions, and examines clinical trials and associated adverse effects to underscore the unmet need for cysteinyl LT receptor antagonism by montelukast as an effective therapy for visual deficits.

Paraquat disrupts the blood-brain barrier by increasing IL-6 expression and oxidative stress through the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Background

Paraquat (PQ) is a frequently used herbicide with neurotoxic effects after acute or chronic exposure. Although in vitro evidence supports the PQ toxicity to dopamine cells, its in vivo effects (especially the chronic exposure) remain ambiguous. In this study, we investigated the effect of chronic PQ exposure on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Adult male Sprague Dawley rats and primary human brain microvascular endothelial (PHBME) cells were exposed to PQ as the animal and cell models. Evans Blue staining and hematoxylin & eosin staining were conducted to examine the BBB and brain tissue damages. The inflammatory cytokines were quantified via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The changes of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway were detected by western blot.

Results

PQ exposure can cause significant pathological lesions in the brain tissues and the BBB. IL-6 and reactive oxygen species levels were found to be significantly upregulated after PQ exposure in both the animal and cell models. PQ treatment could arrest the cell proliferation and migration in PHBME cells. PQ treatment promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, and the application of PI3K inhibitor could attenuate PQ-induced IL-6 production, oxidative stress, BBB disruption, and brain tissue damage.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that chronic PQ exposure could impair the BBB function and induce brain tissue damage. The overactivation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, consequent upregulation of IL-6 production, and increased oxidative stress appear to mediate the inflammatory damage resulting from PQ exposure.

Roles of oxidative stress/JNK/ERK signals in paraquat-triggered hepatic apoptosis

Paraquat (PQ), a toxic and nonselective bipyridyl herbicide, is one of the most extensively used pesticides in agricultural countries. In addition to pneumotoxicity, the liver is an important target organ for PQ poisoning in humans. However, the mechanism of PQ in hepatotoxicity remains unclear. In this study, we found that exposure of rat hepatic H4IIE cells to PQ (0.1-2 mM) induced significant cytotoxicity and apoptosis, which was accompanied by mitochondria-dependent apoptotic signals, including loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cytosolic cytochrome c release, and changes in the Bcl-2/Bax mRNA ratio. Moreover, PQ (0.5 mM) exposure markedly induced JNK and ERK1/2 activation, but not p38-MAPK. Blockade of JNK and ERK1/2 signaling by pretreatment with the specific pharmacological inhibitors SP600125 and PD98059, respectively, effectively prevented PQ-induced cytotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptotic events. Additionally, PQ exposure stimulated significant oxidative stress-related signals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and intracellular glutathione (GSH) depletion, which could be reversed by the antioxidant N-Acetylcysteine (NAC). Buffering the oxidative stress response with NAC also effectively abrogated PQ-induced hepatotoxicity, MMP loss, apoptosis, and phosphorylation of JNK and ERK1/2 protein, however, the JNK or ERK inhibitors did not suppress ROS generation in PQ-treated cells. Collectively, these results demonstrate that PQ exposure induces hepatic cell toxicity and death via an oxidative stress-dependent JNK/ERK activation-mediated downstream mitochondria-regulated apoptotic pathway.

Montelukast, an available and safe anti-asthmatic drug, prevents maladaptive remodelling and maintains cardiac functionality following myocardial infarction

Preclinical and clinical data indicate that the 5-lipoxygenase pathway becomes activated in cardiovascular diseases suggesting an important role of CysLTs in atherosclerosis and in its ischemic complications. This study aims to investigate the effects of montelukast, a CysLTR-1 antagonist, in a mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI). C57BL/6N female mice were subjected to coronary artery ligation and received montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) or vehicle. Montelukast exerted beneficial effects in the infarcted area, decreasing mRNA expression of inflammatory genes, such Il1β and Ccl2 (p < 0.05), at 48 h after MI, and reducing infarct size and preventing ischemic wall thinning (p < 0.05) at 4 weeks. Furthermore, montelukast counteracted maladaptive remodelling of whole heart. Indeed, montelukast reduced LV mass (p < 0.05) and remote wall thickening (p < 0.05), and improved cardiac pumping function, as evidenced by increased global ejection fraction (p < 0.01), and regional contractility in infarcted (p < 0.05) and in remote non-infarcted (p < 0.05) myocardium. Finally, montelukast prevented cardiomyocytes hypertrophy (p < 0.05) in remote myocardium, reducing the phosphorylation of GSK3β, a regulator of hypertrophic pathway (p < 0.05). Our data strongly demonstrate the ability of montelukast to contrast the MI-induced maladaptive conditions, thus sustaining cardiac contractility. The results provide evidences for montelukast "repurposing" in cardiovascular diseases and in particular in myocardial infarction.

Pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, toxicity, and recent advances in Eugenol's potential benefits against natural and chemical noxious agents: A mechanistic review

The active biological phytochemicals, crucial compounds employed in creating hundreds of medications, are derived from valuable and medicinally significant plants. These phytochemicals offer excellent protection from various illnesses, including inflammatory disorders and chronic conditions caused by oxidative stress. A phenolic monoterpenoid known as eugenol (EUG), it is typically found in the essential oils of many plant species from the Myristicaceae, Myrtaceae, Lamiaceae, and Lauraceae families. One of the main ingredients of clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum (L.), Myrtaceae), it has several applications in industry, including flavoring food, pharmaceutics, dentistry, agriculture, and cosmeceuticals. Due to its excellent potential for avoiding many chronic illnesses, it has lately attracted attention. EUG has been classified as a nonmutant, generally acknowledged as a safe (GRAS) chemical by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the existing research, EUG possesses notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, and apoptosis-promoting properties, which have lately gained attention for its ability to control chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial malfunction and dramatically impact human wellness. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the scientific evidence from the most significant research studies that have been published regarding the protective role and detoxifying effects of EUG against a wide range of toxins, including biological and chemical toxins, as well as different drugs and pesticides that produce a variety of toxicities, throughout view of the possible advantages of EUG.

Dose-response effect of Montelukast on post-extraction dental socket repair and skeletal phenotype of mice

Bone metabolism and repair are directly regulated by arachidonic acid metabolites. At present, we analyzed the dose-response effects of a selective cysteinyl leukotriene receptor type-1 antagonist during bone repair after tooth extraction and on non-injured skeleton. Sixty-three 129 Sv/Ev male mice composed the groups: C-Control (saline solution); MTK2-2 mg/Kg of Montelukast (MTK) and MTK4-4 mg/Kg of MTK, daily administered by mouth throughout all experimental periods set at 7, 14, and 21 days post-operative. Dental sockets were analyzed by computed microtomography (microCT), histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. Femurs, L5 vertebra and organs were also removed for observation. Blood was collected for plasma bone and liver markers. Histopathology and microCT analysis revealed early socket repair of MTK2 and MTK4 animals, with significant increased BV/TV at days 14 and 21 compared to C. Higher plasma calcium was detected at days 7 and 21 in MTK4 in comparison to C, while phosphate was significantly increased in MTK2 in the same periods in comparison to C and MTK4. No significant differences were found regarding plasma ALP and TRAP, neither for local TRAP and Runx2 immunolabeling at the healing sockets. Organs did not present histological abnormalities. Increased AST levels have been detected in distinct groups and periods. In general, femur phenotype was improved in MTK treated animals. Collectively, MTK promoted early bone formation after tooth extraction and increased bone quality of femurs and vertebra in a time-dose-dependent manner, and should be considered as an alternative therapy when improved post-extraction socket repair or skeleton preservation is required.

Sulforaphane suppresses paraquat-induced oxidative damage in bovine in vitro-matured oocytes through Nrf2 transduction pathway

Sulforaphane (SFN), a bioactive phytocompound extracted from cruciferous plants, has received increasing attention due to its vital cytoprotective role in eliminating oxidative free radical through activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2)-mediated signal transduction pathway. This study aims at a better insight into the protective benefit of SFN in attenuating paraquat (PQ)-caused impairment in bovine in vitro-matured oocytes and the possible mechanisms involved therein. Results showed that addition of 1 μM SFN during oocyte maturation obtained higher proportions of matured oocytes and in vitro-fertilized embryos. SFN application attenuated the toxicological effects of PQ on bovine oocytes, as manifested by enhanced extending capability of cumulus cell and increased extrusion proportion of first polar body. Following incubation with SFN, oocytes exposed to PQ exhibited reduced intracellular ROS and lipid accumulation levels, and elevated T-SOD and GSH contents. SFN also effectively inhibited PQ-mediated increase in BAX and CASPASE-3 protein expressions. Besides, SFN promoted the transcription of NRF2 and its downstream antioxidative-related genes GCLC, GCLM, HO-1, NQO-1, and TXN1 in a PQ-exposed environment, indicating that SFN prevents PQ-caused cytotoxicity through activation of Nrf2 signal transduction pathway. The mechanisms underlying the role of SFN against PQ-induced injury included the inhibition of TXNIP protein and restoration of the global O-GlcNAc level. Collectively, these findings provide novel evidence for the protective role of SFN in alleviating PQ-caused injury, and suggest that SFN application may be an efficacious intervention strategy against PQ cytotoxicity.

Synergistic impacts of Montelukast and Klotho against doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in Rats

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a powerful antitumor agent with a well-known cardiaotoxic side effects. In the current study, the ameliorative combined impacts of montelukast (Mont) and Klotho against doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity were examined. Fifty-six adult male rats (2 months age and weighting 150–200 g) were grouped into 7 groups (8 rats per group). Animals received doxorubicin alone or in combination with either Mont or Klotho. After 2 weeks of treatments, serum samples were examined to assess the changes in cardiac activity biomarkers such as LDH, CK-MB, cardiac troponin-I (cTn-I), and heart fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP). Serum changes of IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and caspase-3 levels were assayed. The oxidative stress biomarkers such as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and inflammatory (rat IL-1β and rat TNF-α,) and anti-inflammatory (rat IL-10) cytokines were examined. Heart histology and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) immunoreactivity were measured. DOX induced cardiomyopathy, which was reflected by the increases in all examined cardiac parameters. Real-time PCR confirmed that DOX upregulated the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β and decreased the expression of IL-10. Moreover, DOX showed marked elevation in the ST segment T wave complex, causing profound tachycardia. Heart histology assessments showed cardiac cell necrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, interstitial congestion, and increased TGF-β1 immunoreactivity. Montelukast and Klotho administration ameliorated all the altered parameters when administered alone or in combination to DOX-intoxicated rats. Klotho was more effective compared with montelukast in terms of reductions in heart rate, ST segment T wave complex elevation, cardiac enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase; LDH, creatine kinase-MB; CK-MB, cardiac troponin I; cTn-I, heart fatty acid binding protein; H-FABP) cardiac histology, and caspase-3 levels and increases in TAC activity. Montelukast was more effective in reducing serum levels of IL6 and iNOS, expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, and the upregulation of IL-10 expression. The co-administration of both drugs led to significantly more synergistic results in terms of reducing cardiac toxicity. In conclusion, montelukast and Klotho either alone or in combination were confirmed to be effective in suppressing DOX-induced cardiac toxicity in rats.

Ameliorative effect of montelukast against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity: Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway

AIMS

Montelukast, a selective antagonist of type 1 cysteinyl-leukotriene receptors, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities. This study aimed to explore its hepatoprotective impact against CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity compared to a standard hepatoprotective agent, silymarin.

MAIN METHODS

Twenty-four albino mice were used in this study, CCl₄ (1 mL/kg of 1:1 v/v CCl₄:olive oil) was singly injected in mice, and montelukast was administered in a dose of 10 mg/kg.

KEY FINDINGS

Results revealed that montelukast significantly improved CCl₄-induced alterations in both structure and function of the liver, verified respectively through histopathology and by the reduced levels of ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT upon comparison with CCl₄. Also, montelukast prevented the induction of oxidative stress via decreasing hepatic MDA content and enhancing GSH levels. Moreover, montelukast produced a profound decrease in the levels of hepatic NLRP3 and its adaptor protein, ASC, and a reduction in the pro-inflammatory markers, NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. In addition, montelukast markedly reduced liver fibrosis, as illustrated by Masson Trichrome, and the decreased hepatic levels of TGF-β and α-SMA. Furthermore, montelukast efficiently decreased apoptosis as manifested by the decreased hepatic level of Caspase 3.

SIGNIFICANCE

Montelukast protected against CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity via exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Paraquat toxicity in different cell types of Swiss albino mice

In this study, toxicity caused by 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w doses of Paraquat herbicide in Swiss albino mice was investigated. Body weight, liver and kidney organ weights, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzyme activities, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels in liver and kidney, micronucleus (MN) formation in buccal mucosal epithelium, erythrocyte and leukocyte cells and chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in bone marrow cells, viability of liver and kidney cells were investigated. Four groups were randomly formed from male Swiss albino mice (one control and three treatment groups). The control group mice were provided tap water and the mice in the treatment groups were treated orally with three different doses of Paraquat (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w) in the drinking water for 28 days. At the end of the application, all mice were sacrificed and routine preparation procedures were carried out to examine physiological, biochemical, oxidative stress and genetic parameters. Paraquat administration decreased physiological parameters (body, liver and kidney organ weights), and increased biochemical parameters (AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine and MDA). GSH levels were decreased depending on the dose. Kidney and liver damage were confirmed by the trypan blue test. Paraquat administration promoted MN formation in buccal mucosal epithelium, erythrocyte and leukocyte cells depending on the dose. The highest MN frequency was observed in leukocyte cells exposed to a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w of Paraquat. Deteriorations in DNA integrity as a result of MN formations were supported by the comet assay. In addition, Paraquat promoted CAs such as break, fragment, acentric, dicentric, gap and ring in bone marrow cells. Break damage was the most common among these damages. These observed genotoxic effects occured as a result of the interaction of DNA and DNA-related proteins with Paraquat. Molecular docking studies showed that Paraquat binds to histone H4 protein with high affinity and has a high intercalation potential. As a result, Paraquat herbicide caused a significant toxicity by changing physiological, biochemical, oxidative stress and genetic parameters of Swiss albino mice depending on the application dose.

Montelukast ameliorated pemetrexed-induced cytotoxicity in hepatocytes by mitigating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and nucleotide oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) activation

Pemetrexed (PEM) is an effective chemotherapeutic drug used for the treatment of clinical non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is reported to induce severe hepatotoxicity. Exploring potential drugs which could counteract the side effects of PEM is of great clinical interest. Here, we aim to examine the beneficial effects of Montelukast, a novel anti-asthma drug, against PEM-induced cytotoxicity in hepatocytes, and to explore the underlying mechanism. We found that Montelukast reduces cytotoxicity of PEM in hepatocytes, confirmed by its increasing cell viability and reducing lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. In addition, Montelukast attenuated PEM-induced oxidative stress by reducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), increasing reduced glutathione (GSH), and downregulating NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX-4) expression. Importantly, Montelukast suppressed PEM-induced activation of the nucleotide oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and mitigated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by reducing NLRP3, growth arrest, and DNA damage-inducible protein 34 (GADD34), CEBP-homologous protein (CHOP), and also blocking the eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF-2α)/activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) signaling pathway. Lastly, we found that Montelukast inhibited the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB). Montelukast exerted a protective action against PEM-induced cytotoxicity in hepatocytes by mitigating ER stress and NLRP3 activation.

Ellagic acid ameliorates paraquat-induced liver injury associated with improved gut microbial profile

Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, causes environmental pollution, and liver injury in humans and animals. As a natural compound in fruits, ellagic acid (EA) shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study examines the beneficial effects of dietary EA against the paraquat-induced hepatic injury and further explores the underlying molecular mechanisms using a piglet model. Post-weaning piglets are fed basal diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, or 200 mg/kg EA for 3 weeks. At week 2, hepatic injury is induced by 4 mg/kg paraquat followed by 7 days recovery. EA supplementation significantly mitigates paraquat-induced hepatic fibrosis, steatosis, and high apoptotic rate. In agreement, EA supplementation reduces serum pro-inflammatory levels, ameliorates inflammatory cells infiltration into hepatic tissue, which are associated with suppressed NF-κB signaling during paraquat exposure. In addition, EA supplementation significantly improves activities of antioxidative enzymes which were correlated with activated Nrf2/Keap 1 signaling during paraquat exposure. Furthermore, EA supplementation restores cecal microbial community during paraquat exposure. The protective effect of EA is strongly linked with increased relative abundance of Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus amylovorus. Taken together, EA supplementation effectively reduced the occurrence of hepatic oxidative damage and inflammation induced by paraquat through modulating cecal microbial communities, which provides a novel nutritional therapeutic strategy for hepatic injury.

Investigation of montelukast effect on rosuvastatin induced late puberty in rats

Background:

Puberty is a critical process for the development of sexual organs and reproductive ability. It is triggered and regulated by the hormones. Rosuvastatin can delay the onset of puberty through the inhibition of cholesterol and androgen biosynthesis. On the other hand, montelukast has protective effects against various diseases and against reproductive toxicity induced by other medications, but its effects on puberty have not been studied.

Aims:

Assessment of the protective effect of montelukast against rosuvastatin-induced delayed puberty.

Settings and Design:

At the university.

Materials and Methods:

Eighteen male Wistar rats aged 30 days and weighted 50–60 g were distributed to three groups (six rats per group) and intraperitoneally administered every day for 5 days with 0.2 ml of distilled water as control, 10 mg/kg of rosuvastatin and with rosuvastatin + montelukast (10 mg/kg for each drug). These animals’ groups were euthanised on day 50 of age to assess the effect of rosuvastatin alone and with montelukast on the serum levels of the reproductive hormones and histological manifestations and morphometric measurements of the testes.

Statistical Analysis Used:

One-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni multiple tests were performed to analyse the findings using the GraphPad Prism software.

Results:

Treatment of rats with rosuvastatin showed a significantly decreased level of testosterone and luteinising hormone as well as histopathological and morphometric alterations in the testicular tissues in comparison with the control. Interestingly, co-treatment of rosuvastatin with montelukast could not reverse or mitigate these changes induced late puberty.

Conclusion:

There is no protective effect of montelukast against rosuvastatin-induced delayed puberty.

Hepatoprotective and therapeutic effects of resveratrol: A focus on anti-inflammatory and anti- oxidative activities

Being the most essential organ in the body, the liver performs critical functions. Hepatic disorders, such as alcoholic liver disease, hepatic steatosis, liver fibrosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic failure, have an impact on the biochemical and physiological functions of the body. The main representative of the flavonoid subgroup of flavones, Resveratrol (RES), exhibits suitable pharmacological activities for treating various liver diseases, such as fatty hepatitis, liver steatosis, liver cancer and liver fibrosis. According to various studies, grapes and red wine are good sources of RES. RES has various health properties; it is anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative and hepatoprotective against several hepatic diseases and hepatoxicity. Therefore, we performed a thorough research and created a summary of the distinct targets of RES in various stages of liver diseases. We concluded that RES inhibited liver inflammation essentially by causing a significant decrease in the expression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6. It also inhibits the transcription factor nuclear NF-κB that brings about the inflammatory cascade. RES also inhibits the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway to induce apoptosis. Additionally, it reduces oxidative stress in hepatic tissue by markedly reducing MDA and NO contents, and significantly increasing the levels of CAT, SOD and reduced GSH, in addition to AST and ALT, against toxic chemicals like CC14, As2O3 and TTA. Due to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties, RES reduces liver injury markers. RES is safe natural antioxidant that provides pharmacological rectification of the hepatoxicity of toxic chemicals.

ADME/T-based strategies for paraquat detoxification: Transporters and enzymes

Paraquat (PQ) is a toxic, organic herbicide for which there is no specific antidote. Although banned in some countries, it is still used as an irreplaceable weed killer in others. The lack of understanding of the precise mechanism of its toxicity has hindered the development of treatments for PQ exposure. While toxicity is thought to be related to PQ-induced oxidative stress, antioxidants are limited in their ability to ameliorate the untoward biological responses to this agent. Summarized in this review are data on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADME/T) of PQ, focusing on the essential roles of individual transporters and enzymes in these processes. Based on these findings, strategies are proposed to design and test specific and effective antidotes for the clinical management of PQ poisoning.

Supplementation with a Specific Combination of Metabolic Cofactors Ameliorates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Hepatic Fibrosis, and Insulin Resistance in Mice

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have emerged as the leading causes of chronic liver disease in the world. Obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia are multifactorial risk factors strongly associated with NAFLD/NASH. Here, a specific combination of metabolic cofactors (a multi-ingredient; MI) containing precursors of glutathione (GSH) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) (betaine, N-acetyl-cysteine, L-carnitine and nicotinamide riboside) was evaluated as effective treatment for the NAFLD/NASH pathophysiology. Six-week-old male mice were randomly divided into control diet animals and animals exposed to a high fat and high fructose/sucrose diet to induce NAFLD. After 16 weeks, diet-induced NAFLD mice were distributed into two groups, treated with the vehicle (HFHFr group) or with a combination of metabolic cofactors (MI group) for 4 additional weeks, and blood and liver were obtained from all animals for biochemical, histological, and molecular analysis. The MI treatment reduced liver steatosis, decreasing liver weight and hepatic lipid content, and liver injury, as evidenced by a pronounced decrease in serum levels of liver transaminases. Moreover, animals supplemented with the MI cocktail showed a reduction in the gene expression of some proinflammatory cytokines when compared with their HFHFr counterparts. In addition, MI supplementation was effective in decreasing hepatic fibrosis and improving insulin sensitivity, as observed by histological analysis, as well as a reduction in fibrotic gene expression (Col1α1) and improved Akt activation, respectively. Taken together, supplementation with this specific combination of metabolic cofactors ameliorates several features of NAFLD, highlighting this treatment as a potential efficient therapy against this disease in humans.

Effect of paraquat on cytotoxicity involved in oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction: A review of mechanisms and ecological implications

Paraquat (PQ) is a cheap and an effective herbicide, which is widely being used worldwide to remove weeds in cultivated crop fields. However, it can cause soil and water pollution, and pose serious harm to the environment and organisms. Several countries have started to limit or prohibit the use of PQ because of the increasing number of human deaths. Its toxicity can damage the organisms with a multi-target mechanism, which has not been fully understood yet. That is why it is hard to treat as well. The current research on PQ focuses on its targeted organ, the lungs, in which PQ mostly trigger pulmonary fibrosis. While there is a lack of systematic research, there are few studies published discussing its toxic effects at systematic level. This review summarizes the major damages caused by PQ in different organisms and partial mechanisms by which it causes these damages. For this purpose, we consulted several research articles that studied the toxicity of PQ in various tissues. We also listed some drugs that can be used to alleviate the toxicity of PQ. However, at present, the effectiveness of these drugs is still being explored in animal experiments and the study of their mechanism will also help in understanding the poisoning mechanism of PQ, which will ultimately lead to effective treatment in future.

Modulation of autophagy and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channels by montelukast in a rat model of hemorrhagic cystitis

AIMS

Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is a major urotoxic complication of cyclophosphamide (CPA) therapy. This study investigated the uroprotective effect of montelukast on CPA-induced HC, compared to the efficacy of 2-mercaptoethane sulfonate sodium (MESNA).

MAIN METHODS

Male albino rats were pretreated with MESNA (40 mg/kg/day, IP) or montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, orally) for three days then received a single dose of CPA (200 mg/kg, IP), 1 h after the last dose, and compared to CPA-treated rats receiving drug vehicle. Age-matched rats were used as controls. Bladders of rats were assessed biochemically, macroscopically and microscopically by light and electron microscope 24 h later.

KEY FINDINGS

CPA injection contributed to increased bladder weight, urothelial ulceration, vascular congestion, hemorrhage, increased collagen deposition and mast cell infiltration, compared to control rats. Montelukast preconditioning suppressed mast cell infiltration and inflammatory mediators to greater extent than MESNA. Also, montelukast enhanced autophagosomes formation in detrusor myocytes and up-regulated the autophagy-related proteins (beclin-1 & LC3-II), likely through inhibition of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Montelukast preconditioning offset the up-regulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) in urothelial tissue of CPA-treated rats, to greater extent than MESNA.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results demonstrate the uroprotective effect of montelukast on CPA-induced HC, which appears to be more superior to MESNA. These findings suggest that montelukast can emerge as a novel strategy to protect against CPA-induced urotoxicity.

Resveratrol and its derivative pterostilbene ameliorate intestine injury in intrauterine growth-retarded weanling piglets by modulating redox status and gut microbiota

Background

Intestinal disorder is an important factor contributing to growth lag and high rates of morbidity and mortality of piglets with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Resveratrol (RSV) and its derivative pterostilbene (PT) are natural stilbenes possessing various bioactivities, such as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. This study compared the protective potential of RSV and PT on the intestinal redox status and gut microbiota in weanling piglets with IUGR.

Methods

Eighteen male piglets of normal body weight (NBW) and 54 same-sex IUGR piglets were chosen according to their birth and weaning weights. The NBW piglets accepted a basal diet, while the IUGR piglets were allotted to one of three groups according to their body weight at weaning and received a basal diet, an RSV-supplemented diet (300 mg/kg), or a PT-supplemented diet (300 mg/kg), respectively.

Results

Compared with IUGR piglets, both RSV and PT improved the IUGR-associated decrease in jejunal villus height and increases in plasma diamine oxidase activity and D-lactate level and jejunal apoptosis of piglets (P < 0.05). Administering RSV and PT also enhanced jejunal superoxide dismutase activity and the mRNA and protein expression of superoxide dismutase 2 of IUGR piglets by promoting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation (P < 0.05). Comparatively, PT was more effective than RSV in elevating the villus height/crypt depth ratio and occludin mRNA and protein levels in the jejunum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05). PT was also superior to RSV in increasing Nrf2 nuclear translocation and inhibiting malondialdehyde accumulation in the jejunum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05). Additionally, RSV modulated the composition of cecal microbiota of IUGR piglets, as evidenced by increasing the prevalence of the phylum Bacteroidetes and the genera Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, and Parabacteroides and inhibiting the growth of the phylum Proteobacteria and its genera Escherichia and Actinobacillus (P < 0.05). Moreover, RSV significantly increased the butyrate concentration in the cecum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PT is more potent than RSV to prevent intestinal oxidative stress, while RSV has a stronger capacity to regulate gut microbiota compared to PT.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-021-00589-9.

Comparison of Pancreatic Damage in Rats for Two Methods of Paraquat Administration

It is noted that elevated serum amylase levels suggesting pancreatic damage has an association with prognosis in PQ patients. This study aimed to determine whether PQ can cause pancreatic damage. The two conventional models (intragastric infusion (iG) and intraperitoneal injection (iP)) may exhibit different effects on the pancreas depending on whether or not they pass through the digestive tract. In this study, the rats were divided into four groups: the intragastric infusion group (PQ-iG, n = 45), intraperitoneal injection group (PQ-iP, n = 53), normal control group 1 (NC-iG, n = 6) and normal control group 2 (NC-iP, n = 6). Pancreatic damage was compared between groups using serum amylase activity assay, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, TUNEL assay, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Serum amylase levels in group PQ-iG were significantly higher than in group PQ-iP (p < 0.05). Examination of the H&E sections showed damage to the pancreas. Both experimental groups were displayed inflammatory infiltration within 9 h of PQ treatment. After 9 h, patchy necrosis was observed in group PQ-iP, when inflammatory infiltration was still the dominant pathology. Necrosis appeared and gradually worsened in group PQ-iG, in which necrosis was the dominant pathology. The TUNEL assay showed significantly higher numbers of apoptotic cells in the pancreas of PQ-groups than in the control NC- groups (p < 0.05). TEM showed expansive endoplasmic reticulum lumens and mitochondria swelling in the pancreas of the PQ-groups. It is concluded that both methods of modeling could cause pancreatic damage and the type and degree of damage would change over time. Note that pancreatic damage in group PQ-iG was more severe than that in group PQ-iP. Therefore, clinical practitioners should pay close attention to pancreatic damage caused by PQ, especially when the route of PQ administration was oral.

Leukotriene receptor antagonist reduces inflammation and alveolar bone loss in a rat model of experimental periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Leukotrienes (LTs) participate in the process of tissue damage in periodontal disease by leukocyte chemotaxis and osteoclastic activation. The activation of Cysteinyl-LT receptor is associated with increased expression of proinflammatory molecules and osteoclastogenesis. However, its implications on periodontal disease progression have not been studied. The present study evaluated the effect of the cysteinyl-LT receptor antagonist (montelukast [MT]) on ligature-induced experimental periodontitis (EP) in rats.

METHODS

Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to bilateral ligature-induced periodontitis and orally treated with MT (at doses of 10 or 30 mg/kg/d, MT10, and MT30, respectively). Sham animals had the ligatures immediately removed and received placebo treatment. Sets of animals were euthanized 7, 14, or 21 days after ligature placement and the mandibles were removed for macroscopic evaluation of alveolar bone loss (ABL). In addition, histological analysis of periodontal tissues, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of gingival tissues, and periodontal tissue expression of collagen type I, RUNX2, RANK, RANKL, OPG, BLT1, Cys-LTR1, LTA4H, and LTC4S were also analyzed.

RESULTS

MT significantly reduced ABL at 14 (MT10 and MT30) and 21 days (MT10) (P < 0.05), gingival MPO at 7 (MT10) and 14 days (MT30) (P < 0.05), LTA4H, BLT1 and LTC4S gene expression on day 14 day (MT30, P < 0.05) and increased RUNX2 expression on day 14 (MT30, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Systemic therapy with MT decreases periodontal inflammation and ABL in ligature-induced periodontitis in rats.

Evaluation of the hepatoprotective effects of curcumin and nanocurcumin against paraquat-induced liver injury in rats: Modulation of oxidative stress and Nrf2 pathway

Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used herbicide all over the world, which is highly toxic for animals and humans. Its cytotoxicity is based on reactive radical generation. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the hepatoprotective effects of curcumin and nanocurcumin against liver damage caused by sub-acute exposure with PQ via modulation of oxidative stress and genes expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Rats were exposed to PQ (5 mg/kg/day, orally) + curcumin or nanocurcumin (100 mg/kg/day, orally) for 7 days. Then rats were anesthetized and serum and liver samples were collected. Next, serum enzymatic activities, liver histopathology, oxidative stress, and expression of genes involved in Nrf2 signaling pathway were assessed by biochemical and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. PQ significantly increased malondialdehyde, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase levels, and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 gene expression and also decreased total antioxidant capacity, total thiol group levels, Glutathione S-transferases, heme oxygenase 1, Nrf2, and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 genes expression, causing histological damages to liver tissue. These changes were significantly modulated by curcumin and nanocurcumin treatments. Our findings showed that nanocurcumin had better hepatoprotective effect than curcumin in liver damage after PQ exposure most likely through modulation of oxidative stress and genes expression of Nrf2 pathway.

The Protective Effect of Aspirin Eugenol Ester on Paraquat-Induced Acute Liver Injury Rats

Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. The study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of AEE on paraquat-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in rats. AEE was against ALI by decreasing alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels in blood, increasing superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels, and decreasing malondialdehyde levels in blood and liver. A total of 32 metabolites were identified as biomarkers by using metabolite analysis of liver homogenate based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, which belonged to purine metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, histidine metabolism, pantothenate, and CoA biosynthesis, ether lipid metabolism, beta-Alanine metabolism, lysine degradation, cysteine, and methionine metabolism. Western blotting analyses showed that Bax, cytochrome C, caspase-3, caspase-9, and apoptosis-inducing factor expression levels were obviously decreased, whereas Bcl-2 expression levels obviously increased after AEE treatment. AEE exhibited protective effects on PQ-induced ALI, and the underlying mechanism is correlated with antioxidants that regulate amino acid, phospholipid and energy metabolism metabolic pathway disorders and alleviate liver mitochondria apoptosis.

Octreotide alleviates pancreatic damage caused by paraquat in rats by reducing inflammatory responses and oxidative stress

This study explores the efficacy and mechanism by which octreotide (OCT) alleviates paraquat (PQ)-induced pancreatic injury. Twenty-four adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups: the normal control (NC), PQ poisoning, and OCT treatment groups. The PQ-induced pancreatic injury rat model was established by administering PQ (120 mg/kg). Treatment group rats received OCT (8 μg/kg body weight) every 8 h by subcutaneous injection, 1 h after PQ administration. Rats were euthanized 24 h after PQ injection. Serum amylase, lipase, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 levels were markedly increased in the PQ group versus the NC group. In pancreatic tissue, PQ poisoning drastically induced necrosis and increased inflammatory cytokine and oxidative stress marker levels. Compared with the PQ group, OCT reduced pancreatic damage and histological scores, serum amylase, lipase, and inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as oxidative stress. OCT demonstrates protective effects against PQ-induced pancreatic damage through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions.

Aspirin Eugenol Ester Attenuates Paraquat-Induced Hepatotoxicity by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress

Aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) is a new potential drug with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant stress pharmacological activity. Paraquat (PQ) is an effective and commercially important herbicide that is widely used worldwide. However, paraquat is highly toxic and can cause various complications and acute organ damage, such as liver, kidney and lung damage. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether AEE has a protective effect on hepatotoxicity induced by PQ in vivo and in vitro. Cell viability, apoptosis rate, mitochondrial function and intracellular oxidative stress were detected to evaluate the protective effect of AEE on PQ-induced BRL-3A (normal rat hepatocytes) cytotoxicity in vitro. In vivo, AEE pretreatment could attenuate oxidative stress and histopathological changes in rat liver induced by PQ. The results showed that AEE could reduce the hepatotoxicity induced by PQ in vivo and in vitro. AEE reduced PQ-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibitingoxidative stress and maintaining mitochondrial function. This study proved that AEE is an effective antioxidant and can reduce the hepatotoxicity of PQ.

Montelukast ameliorates Concanavalin A-induced autoimmune hepatitis in mice via inhibiting TNF-α/JNK signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Concanavalin A (ConA) is a well-established model to induce autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in mice which mimics pathological alterations that occur in human. The pathogenesis of ConA-induced AIH involves many signaling pathways. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is mainly used in the management of asthma. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of montelukast have been reported in previous studies. Lately, montelukast has been documented to confer protection against various inflammatory diseases. Up to date, no study has explored the effect of montelukast on AIH induced by ConA.

AIM AND METHOD

This study aims to detect the protective effects of montelukast (10 mg/kg) on ConA (20 mg/kg)- induced AIH in mice and to demonstrate its hepatoprotective mechanisms. Hepatic function, histological changes, oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptotic markers were investigated.

RESULTS

Hepatic function and histological data revealed that treatment with montelukast significantly attenuated ConA-induced hepatic damage. Montelukast significantly reduced JNK level and NFκB p65 expression, and inhibited proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) as well as oxidative stress (MDA, NO, and GSH). Moreover, inflammatory cells (CD4+ infiltration and the levels of apoptotic markers (Bax and caspase-3) besides autophagy biomarkers (Beclin1 and LC3) were reduced.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that montelukast could be a potential therapeutic drug against the ConA-induced AIH through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti- autophagy as well as anti-apoptotic properties.

Hepatoprotective role of berberine against paraquat-induced liver toxicity in rat

Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide agent commonly used in agricultural applications. Hepatotoxicity is among clinical complications associated with PQ intoxication. Oxidative stress and its subsequent events are major mechanisms identified in PQ-induced liver toxicity. Berberine (BBR) is a natural antioxidant widely investigated for its hepatoprotective effects. The present study designed to evaluate the potential cytoprotective properties of BBR against PQ-induced cytotoxicity in primary cultured rat hepatocytes and in vivo test of liver function enzymes. Cellular and biochemical parameters including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), cell viability, ROS formation, glutathione (GSH) content, and mitochondrial membrane potential in the PQ-treated hepatocytes were measured, and the mentioned markers were evaluated in the presence of BBR. BBR treatment caused significant decrease in PQ-induced cell death, ROS formation, and LDH release. On the other hand, it was found that BBR inhibits cellular glutathione depletion in PQ-treated hepatocytes. Also, BBR treatment significantly diminished PQ-induced the liver function enzyme elevation. These data mention the potential hepatoprotective effect of BBR with therapeutic capability against PQ-induced liver damage.

8-Formylophiopogonanone B Antagonizes Paraquat-Induced Hepatotoxicity by Suppressing Oxidative Stress

Flavonoids are some of the most important natural products with a variety of physiological activities. 8-Formylophiopogonanone B (8-FOB) is a naturally existing homoisoflavonoid in Ophiopogon japonicus. Paraquat (PQ) has been widely used as a potent herbicide and has high toxicity in humans. The goal of the present study was to investigate whether 8-FOB could protect against PQ-induced hepatotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. We first tested the protective effects of 8-FOB on PQ-induced cytotoxicity in L02 cells by determining cell viability, intracellular oxidative stress levels, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis in vitro. To verify the protective effects of 8-FOB, we pretreated mice with 8-FOB and assessed liver function, hepatic oxidative stress, and histopathological changes after PQ administration. Our results revealed that 8-FOB could antagonize PQ-induced hepatotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. The antagonistic effects could be attributed to suppressing oxidative stress, preserving mitochondrial function, and inhibiting apoptosis. The present study is the first to document that 8-FOB, a homoisoflavonoid compound, is an effective antioxidant for antagonizing PQ-induced hepatotoxicity.

Montelukast Prevents Mice Against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a widely used over-the-counter antipyretic and analgesic drug. Overdose of APAP is the leading cause of hospital admission for acute liver failure. Montelukast is an antagonist of cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (Cysltr1), which protects from inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the function of montelukast in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity remains unknown. In this study, we examined whether pharmacological inhibition of Cystlr1 could protect mice against APAP-induced hepatic damage. We found that APAP treatment upregulated messenger RNA and protein levels of Cysltr1 both in vitro and in vivo. Pharmacological inhibition of Cysltr1 by montelukast ameliorated APAP-induced acute liver failure. The hepatoprotective effect of montelukast was associated with upregulation of hepatic glutathione/glutathione disulfide level, reduction in c-Jun-NH2-terminal kinase activation and oxidative stress. In mouse primary hepatocytes, inhibition of Cysltr1 by montelukast ameliorated the expression of inflammatory-related genes and APAP-induced cytotoxicity. We conclude that montelukast may be used to treat APAP-induced acute hepatic injury.

Montelukast modifies simvastatin-induced myopathy and hepatotoxicity

Montelukast (MNK) has prominent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. It can protect the liver in different hepatotoxic models in animals. Simvastatin (SMV) is one of commonly used lipid lowering drugs for treatment of dyslipidemia in order to reduce cardiovascular disease. It has severe side effects such as myopathy and hepatotoxicity. The aim of the present study is to investigate the possible effect of MNK on SMV-induced myopathy and hepatotoxicity. Four groups of male rats: control group which received saline via stomach tube, MNK treated group (received 10 mg/kg/day MNK via stomach tube), SMV treated group (received 30 mg/kg/day SMV via stomach tube), and MNK + SMV (combination) group which received both MNK and SMV. All animals were treated for 14 days before obtaining blood and tissue samples. SMV has both hepatotoxic effects and myopathy. SMV caused a significant increase in myoglobin, creatinine kinase, ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin but, it decreased total proteins, globulin and albumin levels. Co-treatment of SMV and MNK increased the antioxidant activity significantly. MNK modifies partially the myopathic changes and hepatotoxic effect of SMV. Co-administration of MNK and SMV decreased their toxic potentials on the liver, skeletal muscles, and kidney. They have antioxidant activities when given together that produce muscle and hepatic protective effects.

High-Dose Paraquat Induces Human Bronchial 16HBE Cell Death and Aggravates Acute Lung Intoxication in Mice by Regulating Keap1/p65/Nrf2 Signal Pathway

Paraquat (PQ) intoxication seriously endangers human beings’ health, however, the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Here we found that PQ inhibits human bronchial 16HBE cell proliferation and promotes cell apoptosis, necrosis as well as ROS generation in a dose dependent manner. Of note, low-dose PQ (50 μM) induces cell autophagy, increases Nrf2 as well as p65 levels and has little impacts on Keap1, while high-dose PQ (500 μM) inhibits autophagy, upregulates Keap1 as well as downregulates p65 and Nrf2. In addition, we verified that p65 overexpression increases Nrf2 and its downstream targets in 16HBE cells, which are reversed by synergistically knocking down Nrf2. Our further results showed that high-dose PQ’s effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, ROS levels and autophagy are reversed by p65 overexpression. Besides, the protective effects of overexpressed p65 on high-dose PQ (500 μM) treated 16HBE cells are abrogated by synergistically knocking down Nrf2. In vivo experiments also showed that high-dose PQ promotes inflammatory cytokines secretion, lung fibrosis and cell apoptosis, inhibits cell proliferation in mice models by regulating Keap1/p65/Nrf2 signal pathway. Therefore, we concluded that high-dose PQ (500 μM) inhibits 16HBE cell proliferation and autophagy, promotes cell death and mice lung fibrosis by regulating Keap1/p65/Nrf2 signal pathway.

The Resveratrol Alleviates the Hepatic Toxicity of CuSO4 in the Rat

Cu is toxic to humans and other animals. Oxidative stress is an important mechanism involved in Cu toxicity. Resveratrol (RSV) is an antioxidative compound, so could counteract Cu toxicity. The aim of this study was to determine whether RSV protects the liver from the effects of CuSO₄. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats (5 weeks old, 110-120 g) were divided into four groups (n = 10 per group), a control group and groups treated with CuSO₄ at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight (BW), RSV at a dose of 15 mg/kg BW, and CuSO₄ at a dose of 200 mg/kg BW and RSV at a dose of 15 mg/kg BW. The treatments were orally administered for 30 days. The livers were removed from the rats at the end of the study, and the cytochrome P450, cytochrome b5, Cu, Fe, Zn, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, reactive oxygen species, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase concentrations in the livers were determined. CuSO₄ decreased the BW, liver weight, and cytochrome P450, cytochrome b5, Fe, Zn, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase concentrations but increased the Cu, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and reactive oxygen species concentrations relative to the control group. RSV alleviated the toxic effects of CuSO₄ on the liver, indicating that RSV attenuates CuSO₄-induced liver injury by decreasing the liver transaminase concentration and oxidative stress, promoting antioxidative activity and cytochrome P450 enzymes, and maintaining balance in the trace element concentrations. The results indicate that RSV could be used to treat CuSO₄ toxicity.

Montelukast abrogates prednisolone-induced hepatic injury in rats: Modulation of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and apoptosis

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of montelukast (MTK) against prednisolone-induced hepatic injury in rats. Twenty-eight male albino rats were categorized into four equal groups. Group I served as the control group; group II: rats orally received prednisolone (5 mg·kg-1 ·d-1 ) for 30 days; groups III and IV: rats orally received MTK at 10 and 20 mg·kg-1 ·d-1 , respectively, simultaneously with prednisolone for 30 days. Serum liver enzymes, hepatic mitochondrial function, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and inflammatory and apoptotic markers were evaluated, and the results were confirmed by histopathological examination. MTK showed significant hepatic protection evidenced by alleviated histological lesion and improvement of mitochondrial function, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and inflammatory and apoptotic changes induced by prednisolone, with more profound protection in higher MTK dose (20 mg·kg-1 ). In view of these findings, we can conclude that MTK may have hepatoprotective potential, beyond its therapeutic value for asthmatic patients during their course of corticosteroid therapy.

A user-friendly herbicide derived from photo-responsive supramolecular vesicles

Paraquat, as one of the most widely used herbicides globally, is highly toxic to humans, and chronic exposure and acute ingestion leads to high morbidity and mortality rates. Here, we report user-friendly, photo-responsive paraquat-loaded supramolecular vesicles, prepared via one-pot self-assembly of amphiphilic, ternary host-guest complexes between cucurbit[8]uril, paraquat, and an azobenzene derivative. In this vesicle formulation, paraquat is only released upon UV or sunlight irradiation that converts the azobenzene derivative from its trans- to its cis- form, which in turn dissociates the ternary host-guest complexations and the vesicles. The cytotoxicity evaluation of this vesicle formulation of paraquat on in vitro cell models, in vivo zebrafish models, and mouse models demonstrates an enhanced safety profile. Additionally, the PQ-loaded vesicles' herbicidal activity against a model of invasive weed is nearly identical to that of free paraquat under natural sunlight. This study provides a safe yet effective herbicide formulation.