Thymoquinone Protects against Hyperlipidemia-Induced Cardiac Damage in Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Deficient (LDL-R-/-) Mice via Its Anti-inflammatory and Antipyroptotic Effects

GSTP1 inhibits angiotensin II-induced atrial fibrillation by regulating ferroptosis

AIMS

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice and increases the potential risk of stroke, thromboembolism, and death. Glutathione-S-transferases pi 1 (GSTP1), a key factor of ferroptosis, can participate in stress signal and cell damage pathway through its non-catalytic activity, and has the role of regulating and protecting cells from carcinogens and electrophilic compounds. However, the role and mechanism of GSTP1 in angiotensin II-induced atrial fibrillation have not been studied.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We constructed a mouse model of atrial fibrillation using Ang II and identified key factors by proteome and ferroptosis PCR array. We investigated the role of GSTP1 in atrial remodelling and NRAMs by the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), AAV9-cTNT-GSTP1, and GSTP1 inhibitor Ezatiostat. The results showed that the ferroptosis pathway was significantly altered in atrial fibrillation by proteomics. The ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1 demonstrated that inhibiting ferroptosis can intervene in Ang II-induced atrial fibrillation. The ferroptosis PCR array showed that the expression of GSTP1 was significantly decreased in atrial fibrillation, and it was verified in cells and human atrial tissues. In mice infected with AAV9-cTNT-GSTP1, it was found that overexpression of GSTP1 inhibited Ang II-induced atrial fibrillation. Overexpression of GSTP1 inhibited Ang II-induced myocardial injury, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, these results preliminarily demonstrate that GSTP1-mediated ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the Ang II-induced atrial fibrillation model and can be considered a potential therapeutic target for atrial fibrillation.

Cardioprotective Effects of Phlorizin on Hyperlipidemia-induced Myocardial Injury: Involvement of Suppression in Pyroptosis via Regulating HK1/NLRP3/Caspase-1 Signaling Pathway

Hyperlipidemia (HLP) is a prevalent and intricate condition that plays a pivotal role in impairing heart function. The primary objective of this study was to assess the lipid-lowering and cardioprotective properties of phlorizin (PHZ) and to investigate its potential molecular mechanisms in rats. In this investigation, Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a high-fat diet for a period of 28 days to induce an HLP model. Subsequently, the rats received oral doses of PHZ or metformin from day 14 to day 28. We assessed various parameters using commercially available kits, including serum lipid deposition, myocardial injury biomarkers, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokine levels. We also employed electron microscopy to examine myocardial ultrastructural changes and conducted Western blot analyses to assess apoptosis factors and pyroptosis markers. Comparing the PHZ group with the model group, we observed significant improvements in blood lipid deposition and heart injury biomarkers. Furthermore, PHZ demonstrated a clear reduction in myocardial tissue oxidative stress and inflammatory factors, as well as a suppression of cell apoptosis. Subsequent investigations indicated that PHZ treatment led to a decreased inflammatory response and lowered levels of hexokinase 1 (HK1), NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), and Caspase-1. In summary, PHZ proved to be an effective remedy for alleviating HLP-induced cardiac damage by reducing blood lipid levels, mitigating oxidative stress, curbing inflammation, and suppressing pyroptosis. The inhibition of pyroptosis by PHZ appears to be linked to the regulation of the HK1/NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway.

Targeting de novo lipogenesis to mitigate kidney disease

Ten percent of the population worldwide suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the mechanisms driving CKD pathology are incompletely understood. While dysregulated lipid metabolism is one hallmark of CKD, the pathogenesis of cellular lipid accumulation remains unclear. In this issue of the JCI, Mukhi et al. Identify acyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family 2 (ACSS2) as a disease risk gene and demonstrate a role for ACSS2 in de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Notably, genetic or pharmacological inhibition of DNL protected against kidney disease progression in mice. These findings warrant evaluation of DNL inhibition with respect to efficacy and safety in people with CKD.

Thymoquinone: A comprehensive review of its potential role as a monotherapy for metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a widespread global epidemic that affects individuals across all age groups and presents a significant public health challenge. Comprising various cardio-metabolic risk factors, MetS contributes to morbidity and, when inadequately addressed, can lead to mortality. Current therapeutic approaches involve lifestyle changes and the prolonged use of pharmacological agents targeting the individual components of MetS, posing challenges related to cost, compliance with medications, and cumulative side effects. To overcome the challenges associated with these conventional treatments, herbal medicines and phytochemicals have been explored and proven to be holistic complements/alternatives in the management of MetS. Thymoquinone (TQ), a prominent bicyclic aromatic compound derived from Nigella sativa emerges as a promising candidate that has demonstrated beneficial effects in the treatment of the different components of MetS, with a good safety profile. For methodology, literature searches were conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar for relevant studies until December 2023. Using Boolean Operators, TQ and the individual components of MetS were queried against the databases. The retrieved articles were screened for eligibility. As a result, we provide a comprehensive overview of the anti-obesity, anti-dyslipidaemic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-diabetic effects of TQ including some underlying mechanisms of action such as modulating the expression of several metabolic target genes to promote metabolic health. The review advocates for a paradigm shift in MetS management, it contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of the application of TQ, fostering an understanding of its role in mitigating the global burden of MetS.

Effect of saffron, black seed, and their main constituents on inflammatory cytokine response (mainly TNF-α) and oxidative stress status: an aspect on pharmacological insights

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammatory cytokine, is produced by monocytes and macrophages. It is known as a 'double-edged sword' because it is responsible for advantageous and disadvantageous events in the body system. The unfavorable incident includes inflammation, which induces some diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, cancer, and diabetes. Many medicinal plants have been found to prevent inflammation, such as saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and black seed (Nigella sativa). Therefore, the purpose of this review was to assess the pharmacological effects of saffron and black seed on TNF-α and diseases related to its imbalance. Different databases without time limitations were investigated up to 2022, including PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Web of Science. All the original articles (in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies) were collected on the effects of black seed and saffron on TNF-α. Black seed and saffron have therapeutic effects against many disorders, such as hepatotoxicity, cancer, ischemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver, by decreasing TNF-α levels based on their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Saffron and black seed can treat a variety of diseases by suppressing TNF-α and exhibiting a variety of activities such as neuroprotective, gastroprotective, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, antitussive, bronchodilator, antidiabetic activity, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. To uncover the beneficial underlying mechanisms of black seed and saffron, more clinical trials and phytochemical research are required. Also, these two plants affect other inflammatory cytokines, hormones, and enzymes, implying that they could be used to treat a variety of diseases.

Thymoquinone, a Novel Multi-Strike Inhibitor of Pro-Tumorigenic Breast Cancer (BC) Markers: CALR, NLRP3 Pathway and sPD-L1 in PBMCs of HR+ and TNBC Patients

Breast cancer (BC) is not only a mass of malignant cells but also a systemic inflammatory disease. BC pro-tumorigenic inflammation has been shown to promote immune evasion and provoke BC progression. The NOD-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is activated when pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) sense danger signals such as calreticulin (CALR) from damaged/dying cells, leading to the secretion of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). CALR is a novel BC biological marker, and its high levels are associated with advanced tumors. NLRP3 expression is strongly correlated with an elevated proliferative index Ki67, BC progression, metastasis, and recurrence in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and triple-negative BC (TNBC). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) secrete high levels of IL-1β promoting endocrine resistance in HR+ BC. Recently, an immunosuppressive soluble form of programmed death ligand 1 (sPD-L1) has been identified as a novel prognostic biomarker in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. Interestingly, IL-1β induces sPD-L1 release. BC Patients with elevated IL-1β and sPD-L1 levels show significantly short progression-free survival. For the first time, this study aims to investigate the inhibitory impact of thymoquinone (TQ) on CALR, the NLRP3 pathway and sPD-L1 in HR+ and TNBC. Blood samples were collected from 45 patients with BC. The effect of differing TQ concentrations for different durations on the expression of CALR, NLRP3 complex components and IL-1β as well as the protein levels of sPD-L1 and IL-1β were investigated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and TAMs of TNBC and HR+ BC patients, respectively. The findings showed that TQ significantly downregulated the expression of CALR, NLRP3 components and IL-1β together with the protein levels of secreted IL-1β and sPD-L1. The current findings demonstrated novel immunomodulatory effects of TQ, highlighting its potential role not only as an excellent adjuvant but also as a possible immunotherapeutic agent in HR+ and TNBC patients.

Geniposide suppressed OX-LDL-induced osteoblast apoptosis by regulating the NRF2/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis (OP), due to microarchitectural alterations, is associated with decreased bone mass, declined strength, and increased fracture risk. Increased osteoblast apoptosis contributes to the progression of OP. Natural compounds from herbs provide a rich resource for drug screening. Our previous investigation showed that geniposide (GEN), an effective compound from Eucommia ulmoides, could protect against the pathological development of OP induced by cholesterol accumulation.

METHODS

The rat OP models were duplicated. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate bone changes. TUNEL/DAPI staining assays were used for cell apoptosis detection. Protein expression was determined by western blotting assays.

RESULTS

A high-fat diet promoted OP development in vivo, and OX-LDL stimulated osteoblast apoptosis in vitro. GEN exhibited protective activities against OX-LDL-induced osteoblast apoptosis by increasing the NRF2 pathway and decreasing the NF-κB pathway. PDTC, an NF-κB inhibitor, could further promote the biological functions of GEN. In contrast, ML385, an NRF2 inhibitor, might eliminate GEN's protection.

CONCLUSION

GEN suppressed OX-LDL-induced osteoblast apoptosis by regulating the NRF2/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Combining effect of camellia oil and squalene on hyperlipidemia-induced reproductive damage in male rats

Introduction

Camellia oil (CO), a common edible oil in China, contains a variety of active ingredients. In this study, we explored the combining effect and optimal feeding time of CO and squalene on hyperlipemia-induced reproductive damage rats and probably provided supportive data for use of CO for health benefits.

Methods

We established the hyperlipidaemia-induced reproductive damage model, and then the successfully modeled rats were randomly classified into four groups including a model control (MC) group, a camellia oil (CO) group, a camellia oil + squalene (COS) group, and a sildenafil (SN) group, which were feeding with different subjects during days 30 and 60. The normal (NC) group was fed under the same conditions.

Results

Our results showed that compared with the MC group, the CO, COS, and SN groups could significantly decline the serum TG, TC and LDL-C levels, increase the serum testosterone levels, the sperm counts in epididymidis and organ coefficients of penises, and no pathological change in penis and testis at days 30 and 60. Compared with the pure CO, the mixture of CO and squalene could significantly enhance the effect of decreasing the concentrations of TG, TC, and LDL-C and increasing the serum testosterone level and sperm count of epididymal tail, and the results of day 30 were better than those of day 60.

Discussion

CO and squalene have a combining effect on lowering blood lipid, improving the level of testosterone and the number of epididymal tail sperm, and promoting the recovery of erectile and sexual function on hyperlipidemia-induced reproductive damage rats on day 30.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Thymoquinone in Atherosclerosis: A Mini Review

Atherosclerosis poses serious health problems and increases the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, ischemic stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Atherosclerosis patients require long-term medications to prevent complications, some of which are costly and may result in unwanted adverse reactions. Natural products have emerged as potential sources of bioactive compounds that provide health benefits in cardiovascular diseases. Increased inflammation and vascular remodeling have been associated with atherosclerosis pathogenesis. The molecules involved in signaling pathways are considered valuable targets for new treatment approaches. Therefore, this review aimed to summarize the available evidence of the anti-inflammatory effects of thymoquinone, the major active compound isolated from Nigella sativa L., via inflammatory signaling pathways in atherosclerosis. Specifically, nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways were considered. Furthermore, the potential toxic effects elicited by thymoquinone were addressed. These findings suggest a potential role of thymoquinone in managing atherosclerosis, and further studies are required to ascertain its effectiveness and safety profile.

Thymoquinone: A Review of Pharmacological Importance, Oxidative Stress, COVID-19, and Radiotherapy

Widely consumed worldwide, Nigella sativa (NS) is a medicinal herb commonly used in various alternative medicine systems such as Unani and Tibb, Ayurveda, and Siddha. Recommended for regular use in Tibb-e-Nabwi (Prophetic Medicine), NS is considered one of the most notable forms of healing medicine in Islamic literature. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main component of the essential oil of NS, has been reported to have many properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antineoplastic. Its chemical structure indicates antiviral potential against many viruses, including the hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and other coronavirus diseases. Interestingly, molecular docking studies have demonstrated that TQ can potentially inhibit the development of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by binding to the receptor site on the transmembrane serine proteinase 2 (the activator enzyme that attaches the virus to the cell). In addition, TQ has been shown to be effective against cancer cells due to its inhibitory effect by binding to the different regions of MDM2, according to the proposed molecular docking study. Detailed in this review is the origin of TQ, its significance in alternative medicine, pharmacological value, potential as a cancer anti-proliferative agent, use against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and treatment of other diseases.

Thymoquinone ameliorates pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy by activating the AMPK signalling pathway

Prolonged pathological myocardial hypertrophy leads to end‐stage heart failure. Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive component extracted from Nigella sativa seeds, is extensively used in ethnomedicine to treat a broad spectrum of disorders. However, it remains unclear whether TQ protects the heart from pathological hypertrophy. This study was conducted to examine the potential utility of TQ for treatment of pathological cardiac hypertrophy and if so, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Male C57BL/6J mice underwent either transverse aortic constriction (TAC) or sham operation, followed by TQ treatment for six consecutive weeks. In vitro experiments consisted of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) that were exposed to phenylephrine (PE) stimulation to induce cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In this study, we observed that systemic administration of TQ preserved cardiac contractile function, and alleviated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and oxidative stress in TAC‐challenged mice. The in vitro experiments showed that TQ treatment attenuated the PE‐induced hypertrophic response in NRCMs. Mechanistical experiments showed that supplementation of TQ induced reactivation of the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) with concomitant inhibition of ERK 1/2, p38 and JNK1/2 MAPK cascades. Furthermore, we demonstrated that compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, abolished the protective effects of TQ in in vivo and in vitro experiments. Altogether, our study disclosed that TQ provides protection against myocardial hypertrophy in an AMPK‐dependent manner and identified it as a promising agent for the treatment of myocardial hypertrophy.

Nigella sativa L. Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities: A Review (2019-2021)

Medicinal and aromatic plants are mainly characterized by the presence of different bioactive compounds which exhibit various therapeutic activities. In order to investigate the different pharmacological properties of different Nigella sativa extracts, a multitude of research articles published in the period between 2019 and 2021 were obtained from different databases (Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, and Web of Science), and then explored and analyzed. The analysis of the collected articles allows us to classify the phytochemicals and the pharmacological activities through their underlying molecular mechanisms, as well as to explore the pharmacological activities exhibited by several identified compounds in Nigella sativa which allow a better understanding, and better elucidation, of the bioactive compounds responsible for the pharmacological effects. Also shown are the existence of other bioactive compounds that are still unexplored and could be of great interest. This review could be taken as a guide for future studies in the field.

Regulation of pyroptosis in cardiovascular pathologies: Role of noncoding RNAs

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most important diseases endangering human life. The pathogenesis of CVDs is complex. Pyroptosis, which differs from traditional apoptosis and necrosis, is characterized by cell swelling until membrane rupture, resulting in the release of cell contents and activation of a strong inflammatory response. Recent studies have revealed that inflammation and pyroptosis play important roles in the progression of CVDs. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are considered promising biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, including CVDs. Growing evidence has revealed that ncRNAs can mediate the transcriptional or posttranscriptional regulation of pyroptosis-related genes by participating in the pyroptosis regulatory network. The role and molecular mechanism of pyroptosis-regulating ncRNAs in cardiovascular pathologies are attracting increasing attention. Here, we summarize research progress on pyroptosis and the role of ncRNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), in the regulation of pyroptosis in CVD pathologies. Identifying these disease-related ncRNAs is important for understanding the pathogenesis of CVDs and providing new targets and ideas for their prevention and treatment.