Supplementation of fresh ucche (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata Willd) prevented oxidative stress, fibrosis and hepatic damage in CCl4 treated rats

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Three Cucurbit Plants Involving In Vivo Diabetes Screening

BACKGROUND

Trichosanthes cucumerina L. (TC), Momordica charantia var. muricata (Willd.) Chakrav. (MCM), and Luffa acutangula (L) Roxb. (LA) are common vegetables widely used in traditional and folk systems of medicine for various ailments including diabetes.

METHODOLOGY

This work evaluated the antidiabetic potential of 95% ethanolic extract (EE) obtained from Trichosanthes cucumerina, Momordica charantia var. muricata, and Luffa acutangula whole plant. Their antidiabetic activity was screened in fasted, fed, glucose-loaded, and diabetic rats treated for up to 4 h.

RESULTS

The tested herbal extracts possess potent therapeutic applications; more specifically Momordica charantia var. muricata whole plant extract possessed the most significant blood glucose lowering in fasted (19.68%; p<0.001), fed (8.1%; p<0.001), glucose loaded (18.78%; p<0.001), and diabetic (30.99%; p<0.001) models.

CONCLUSION

Our method of testing the glucose-lowering in four experimental models offers a time-saving approach to screen the hypoglycemic potential of candidate drugs. These findings validate the traditional claims and provide novel insights into the quest for antidiabetic cure.

Bromelain mitigates liver fibrosis via targeting hepatic stellate cells in vitro and in vivo

Various therapeutic approaches are conducted for regression of liver fibrosis and prevent possible further carcinogenic transformation. This study was aimed to assess the prospective therapeutic potential of bromelain against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis using in-vitro and in vivo approaches. In vitro study, HSC-T6 cell line was used to evaluate the effect of bromelain on HSC-T6 cell viability and apoptosis. In vivo, Rats were treated by TAA for 6 weeks for induction of hepatic fibrosis followed by post treatment by different doses of bromelain and silymarin for further 4 weeks to assess the regression of hepatic fibrosis. The in-vitro findings indicated that bromelain hindered the proliferation of HSCs in concentration dependent manner compared with the untreated cells. The in vivo study revealed that treatment of TAA fibrotic rats with different doses of bromelain and silymarin induced a significant restoration in liver function biomarkers, attenuation of oxidative stress, upregulation of total antioxidant capacity and thereby decline of fibrotic biomarkers and improving histopathological and immunohistochemical changes. In conclusion, This study indicates that bromelain can regress TAA induced hepatic fibrosis in rats via inhibiting HSCs activation, α-SMA expression and the ECM deposition in hepatic tissue in addition to its antioxidants pathway, these findings prove the promising therapeutic potential of bromelain as a novel therapeutic approach for chronic hepatic fibrotic diseases.

Chinese medicine in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis: Progress and future opportunities

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease occurring in individuals of all ages with a higher incidence in females and characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, elevated serum autoantibodies and histological features of interface hepatitis. AIH pathogenesis remains obscure and still needs in‐depth study, which is likely associated with genetic susceptibility and the loss of immune homeostasis. Steroids alone and in combination with other immunosuppressant agents are the primary choices of AIH treatment in the clinic, whereas, in some cases, severe adverse effects and disease relapse may occur. Chinese medicine used for the treatment of AIH has proven its merits over many years and is well tolerated. To better understand the pathogenesis of AIH and to evaluate the efficacy of novel therapies, several animal models have been generated to recapitulate the immune microenvironment of patients with AIH. In the current review, we summarize recent advances in the study of animal models for AIH and their application in pharmacological research of Chinese medicine‐based therapies and also discuss current limitations. This review aims to provide novel insights into the discovery of Chinese medicine‐originated therapies for AIH using cutting‐edge animal models.

Potential role of herbal medicines as a novel approach in sepsis treatment

The growing number of deaths related to sepsis has become a major concern for past few years. Sepsis is a complex pathological reactions that is explained by series of host response to microbial insult. The resulted systemic reactions are manifested by early appearance of proinflammatory cytokines leading to hyperinflammatory phase which is followed by septic shock and death of the patient. The present study has revealed that antibiotics are not self-sufficient to control the complex mechanism of sepsis. Moreover prolonged and unnecessary administration of antibiotics may lead to antibiotic resistance to pathogens. In addition to this, immunosuppressive medications are selective and have targeted approach to certain study population. Drugs from herbal origin have shown to possess a mammoth of immunomodulatory potential by suppressing proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines exhibiting no or minimal unwanted secondary responses. Concomitantly, herbal plants tend to modulate oxidative stress level and haematological imbalance during inflammatory diseased conditions. Natural compounds have gained much attention for the treatment of several clinical complications. Considering the promising responses of medicinal plants with less/no side effects and easy procurement, comprehensive research on herbal plants to treat sepsis should be contemplated.

A triterpenoid-enriched extract of bitter melon leaves alleviates hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting inflammatory responses in carbon tetrachloride-treated mice

Liver fibrosis is a progression of chronic liver disease characterized by excess deposition of fibrillary collagen. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of a triterpenoid-enriched extract (TEE) from bitter melon leaves against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. Male ICR mice received TEE (100 or 150 mg kg^-1) by daily oral gavage for one week before starting CCl₄ administration and throughout the entire experimental period. After intraperitoneal injection of CCl₄ for nine weeks, serum and liver tissues of the mice were collected for biochemical, histopathological and molecular analyses. Our results showed that TEE supplementation reduced CCl₄-induced serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities. Histopathological examinations revealed that CCl₄ administration results in hepatic fibrosis, while TEE supplementation significantly suppressed hepatic necroinflammation and collagen deposition. In addition, TEE supplementation decreased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive staining and protein levels of α-SMA and transforming growth factor-β1. TEE-supplemented mice had lower mRNA expression levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and toll-like receptor 4. Moreover, TEE (150 mg kg^-1) supplementation significantly reduced intrahepatic inflammatory Ly6C⁺ monocyte infiltration. We demonstrated that TEE could ameliorate hepatic fibrosis by regulating inflammatory cytokine secretion and α-SMA expression in the liver to reduce collagen accumulation.

Liver Damage Produced by Malnutrition is Improved by Dietary Supplementation in Mice: Assessment of a Supplement Based on Buriti (A Cerrado Fruit) and Dairy By-products

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition induced by dietary restriction produces several metabolic changes that affect body weight, the digestive system, and annex organs, including the liver. Malnutrition generates an inflammatory state and increases oxidative stress. The liver is one of the body vital organs, becoming necessary to analyze the impact of food supplementation on the repair of possible changes that may occur in this organ due to malnutrition.

AIMS

To evaluate the effects of a low-cost supplementation derived from Buriti and dairy byproducts on liver recovery in malnourished mice, focusing on the expression of oxidative stressrelated genes, as well as biochemical and histological parameters.

METHODS

Swiss mice were divided into six groups and submitted to two treatment phases: food restriction, for malnutrition onset; and renutrition, with mice being fed with different diets.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that dietary supplementation was successful in recovering liver damage caused by malnutrition in animal models. The new supplement has been shown to recover liver damage with similar or superior results compared to the commercial reference supplement on the market.

CONCLUSION

Our work presents a new composition of low cost food supplement based on buriti and dairy by-products, proven to be effective in the malnutrition treatment of malnutrition. The improvements were proven through the recovery of body weight, reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction optimized HGF-overexpressing bone marrow stem cells to repair fibrotic liver in rats

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have shown their therapeutic potential in cytotherapy for liver fibrosis. However, the insufficient homing of BMSCs and undefined proliferation of BMSCs represent a significant challenge and largely limit the effective implementation. The aims of the present study were to determine whether stable expression of hepatic growth factor (HGF) in BMSCs coupled with ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) technique could effectively and definitely alleviating carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A rat model of liver fibrosis was acquired by injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The experimental rats were randomly assigned to the four groups: normal, CCl4, BMSCs-HGF/US, and BMSCs-HGF/UTMD groups. The BMSCs, transfected by recombinant adeno-associated virus vector encoding human genome sequence of HGF (BMSCs-HGF), were transplanted in rat via the tail vein. The homing efficiency of BMSCs was observed by immunofluorescence staining. The liver function and its morphological changes were analyzed by biochemical tests and liver histology. The expression of liver fibrosis markers including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, and vimentin were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The homing efficiency of BMSCs in the fibrotic liver was significantly greater with the application of UTMD. The biochemical markers of liver function and histopathological results showed significantly better improvement in BMSCs-HGF/UTMD group than the other groups, and the serum levels of biochemical markers returned to normal ranges in 12 weeks in this group. Furthermore, the expression levels of liver fibrosis markers (α-SMA, collagen I, and Vimentin) were all significantly lower in BMSCs-HGF/UTMD group in comparison with other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings have demonstrated that stable expression of HGF in BMSCs and application of the UTMD technique facilitate the homing of BMSCs, and more importantly, which could further improve their alleviation of liver fibrosis. Therefore, these findings have an important clinical implication that AAV-BMSCs-HGF and UTMD hold promise as a novel therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis.

Preventive Role of Resveratrol Against Inflammatory Cytokines and Related Diseases

BACKGROUND

Immunity is the ultimate barrier between foreign stimuli and a host cell. Unwanted immune responses can threaten the host cells and may eventually damage a vital organ. Overproduction of inflammatory cytokines may also lead to autoimmune diseases. Inflammatory cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines can eventually progress to renal, cardiac, brain, hepatic, pancreatic and ocular inflammation that can result in severe damage in the long run. Evidence also suggests that inflammation may lead to atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's, hypertension, stroke, cysts and cancers.

METHODS

This study was designed to correlate the possible molecular mechanisms for inflammatory diseases and prevent biochemical changes owing to inflammatory cytokines by using Resveratrol. Therefore, we searched and accumulated very recent literature on inflammatory disorders and Resveratrol. We scoured PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, PLoS One and Google Scholar to gather papers and related information.

RESULTS

Reports show that inflammatory diseases are very complex, as multiple cascade systems are involved; therefore, they are quite difficult to cure. However, our literature search also correlates some possible molecular interactions by which inflammation can be prevented. We noticed that Resveratrol is a potent lead component and has multiple activities against harmful inflammatory cytokines and related microRNA. Our study also suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of Resveratrol have been highly studied on animal models, cell lines and human subjects and proven to be very effective in reducing inflammatory cell production and pro-inflammatory cytokine accumulation. Our tables and figures also demonstrate recent findings and possible preventive activities to minimize inflammatory diseases.

CONCLUSION

This study would outline the role of harmful inflammatory cytokines as well as how they accelerate pathophysiology and progress to an inflammatory disorder. Therefore, this study might show a potential therapeutic value of using Resveratrol by health professionals in preventing inflammatory disorders.

Anti-inflammatory Property of AMP-activated Protein Kinase

BACKGROUND

One of the many debated topics in inflammation research is whether this scenario is really an accelerated form of human wound healing and immunityboosting or a push towards autoimmune diseases. The answer requires a better understanding of the normal inflammatory process, including the molecular pathology underlying the possible outcomes. Exciting recent investigations regarding severe human inflammatory disorders and autoimmune conditions have implicated molecular changes that are also linked to normal immunity, such as triggering factors, switching on and off, the influence of other diseases and faulty stem cell homeostasis, in disease progression and development.

METHODS

We gathered around and collected recent online researches on immunity, inflammation, inflammatory disorders and AMPK. We basically searched PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar to assemble the studies which were published since 2010.

RESULTS

Our findings suggested that inflammation and related disorders are on the verge and interfere in the treatment of other diseases. AMPK serves as a key component that prevents various kinds of inflammatory signaling. In addition, our table and hypothetical figures may open a new door in inflammation research, which could be a greater therapeutic target for controlling diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance and preventing autoimmune diseases.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between immunity and inflammation becomes easily apparent. Yet, the essence of inflammation turns out to be so startling that the theory may not be instantly established and many possible arguments are raised for its clearance. However, this study might be able to reveal some possible approaches where AMPK can reduce or prevent inflammatory disorders.

New Aspects Towards a Molecular Understanding of the Allicin Immunostimulatory Mechanism via Colec12, MARCO, and SCARB1 Receptors

The allicin pleiotropic effects, which include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral, and antibacterial actions, were well demonstrated and correlated with various molecular pathways. The immunostimulatory mechanism of allicin has not been elucidated; however, there is a possible cytokine stimulation from immunoglobulin release caused by allicin. In this study, when Wistar female rats and CD19+ lymphocytes were treated with three different doses of allicin, immunoglobulins, glutathione, and oxidative stress markers were assayed. Molecular docking was performed between S-allylmercaptoglutathione (GSSA)—a circulating form of allicin in in vivo systems formed by the allicin interaction with glutathione (GSH)—and scavenger receptors class A and B from macrophages, as well as CD19+ B lymphocytes. Our data demonstrated a humoral immunostimulatory effect of allicin in rats and direct stimulation of B lymphocytes by S-allyl-mercapto-glutathione, both correlated with decreased catalase (CAT) activity. The molecular docking revealed that S-allyl-mercapto-glutathione interacting with Colec12, MARCO (class A), and SCARB1 (class B) scavenger receptors in in vitro tests demonstrates a direct stimulation of immunoglobulin secretion by GSSA in CD19+ B lymphocytes. These data collectively indicate that GSSA stimulates immunoglobulin secretion by binding on scavenger receptors class B type 1 (SCARB1) from CD19+ B lymphocytes.

Mechanistic basis for impaired ferroptosis in cells expressing the African-centric S47 variant of p53

A population-restricted single-nucleotide coding region polymorphism (SNP) at codon 47 exists in the human TP53 gene (P47S, hereafter P47 and S47). In studies aimed at identifying functional differences between these variants, we found that the African-specific S47 variant associates with an impaired response to agents that induce the oxidative stress-dependent, nonapoptotic cell death process of ferroptosis. This phenotype is manifested as a greater resistance to glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in cultured cells as well as increased carbon tetrachloride-mediated liver damage in a mouse model. The differential ferroptotic responses associate with intracellular antioxidant differences between P47 and S47 cells, including elevated abundance of the low molecular weight thiols coenzyme A (CoA) and glutathione in S47 cells. Importantly, the disparate ferroptosis phenotypes related to the P47S polymorphism are reversible. Exogenous administration of CoA provides protection against ferroptosis in cultured mouse and human cells, as well as in a mouse model. The combined data support a positive role for p53 in ferroptosis and identify CoA as a regulator of this cell death process. Together, these findings provide mechanistic insight linking redox regulation of p53 to small molecule antioxidants and stress signaling pathways. They also identify potential therapeutic approaches to redox-related pathologies.

Cucurbitane triterpenoids from the fruit of Momordica charantia L. and their anti-hepatic fibrosis and anti-hepatoma activities

Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) is a popular vegetable and traditional folk medicine, that has been used for hundreds of years. In this study, three undescribed cucurbitane-type triterpene glycosides furpyronecucurbitane A, goyaglycoside I and charantagenin F along with nine known compounds were isolated from the immature fruit of Momordica charantia L. Their structures were identified on the basis of extensive 1D, 2D NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopy analysis. All isolated compounds were examined for their anti-hepatic fibrosis activity against murine hepatic stellate cells (t-HSC/Cl-6) and anti-hepatoma activity against two kinds of liver cancer cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B). Among them, karaviloside III exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against activated t-HSC/Cl-6 cells and cytotoxic activity against Hep3B and HepG2 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 3.74 ± 0.13, 16.68 ± 2.07 and 4.12 ± 0.36 μM, respectively, which may potential to be developed as a chemotherapy agent for treatment hepatic fibrosis or carcinoma and protection against both diseases.

Administration of Momordica charantia Enhances the Neuroprotection and Reduces the Side Effects of LiCl in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Recently, the use of natural food supplements to reduce the side effects of chemical compounds used for the treatment of various diseases has become popular. Lithium chloride (LiCl) has some protective effects in neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, its toxic effects on various systems and some relevant interactions with other drugs limit its broader use in clinical practice. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological functions of LiCl combined with Momordica charantia (MC) in the treatment of AD. The in vitro results show that the order of the neuroprotective effect is MC5, MC3, MC2, and MC5523 under hyperglycemia or tau hyperphosphorylation. Therefore, MC5523 (80 mg/kg; oral gavage) and/or LiCl (141.3 mg/kg; intraperitoneal injection) were applied to ovariectomized (OVX) 3×Tg-AD female and C57BL/6J (B6) male mice that received intracerebroventricular injections of streptozotocin (icv-STZ, 3 mg/kg) for 28 days. We found that the combined treatment not only increased the survival rate by reducing hepatotoxicity but also increased neuroprotection associated with anti-gliosis in the icv-STZ OVX 3×Tg-AD mice. Furthermore, the cotreatment with MC5523 and LiCl prevented memory deficits associated with reduced neuronal loss, gliosis, oligomeric Aβ level, and tau hyperphosphorylation and increased the expression levels of synaptic-related protein and pS9-GSK3β (inactive form) in the icv-STZ B6 mice. Therefore, MC5523 combined with LiCl could be a potential strategy for the treatment of AD.

Antifibrogenic Influence of Mentha piperita L. Essential Oil against CCl4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats

Essential oils of some aromatic plants provide an effective nonmedicinal option to control liver fibrosis. Mentha piperita L. essential oil (MPEO) have been reported to possess protective effects against hepatotoxicity. However, its effect against liver fibrosis remains unknown. The present study investigated the antifibrogenic potential of MPEO and its underlying mechanisms. Forty male rats divided into 4 groups were used: group 1 served as normal control, group 2 (liver fibrosis) received CCl4 (2.5 mL/kg, IP, twice weekly) for 8 weeks, group 3 concurrently received CCl4 plus MPEO (50 mg/kg, IP, daily, from the 3rd week), and group 4 received MPEO only. MPOE significantly improved the liver injury markers, lipid peroxidation (LPO), antioxidant capacity, CYP2E1 gene expressionand liver histology. Furthermore, MPOE ameliorated liver fibrosis as evidenced by the reduced expression of desmin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and SMAD3 proteins. In addition, MPOE counteracted the p53 upregulation induced by CCl4 at both mRNA and protein levels. In conclusion, MPOE could effectively attenuate hepatic fibrosis mainly through improving the redox status, suppressing p53 and subsequently modulating TGF-β1 and SMAD3 protein expression. These data promote the use of MPOE as a promising approach in antifibrotic therapy.

Effect of Intrauterine Infusion of Momordica Charantia L. on Oxidative Stress and Pregnancy Rate in Infertile Cows

Introduction

The effect of intrauterine administration of Momordica charantia L. (MC) extract on oxidative changes and pregnancy rate in infertile cows was investigated.

Material and Methods

Endometrial smear specimens were taken from 40 cows with fertility problems for cytological examination, and the cows were randomly divided into two groups: group I (n = 20) was subjected to intrauterine administration of 40 mL (0.25 g/mL) of MC extract, group II (n = 20) was subjected to intrauterine administration of 40 mL of pure olive oil. Blood samples were taken starting from the day of administration of MC extract or olive oil (day 0) and then for three weeks at weekly intervals (days 7, 14, 21). Blood serum samples were evaluated for total antioxidant capacity (TAS), total oxidant level (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. In addition, on the 14^th day following treatment, two doses of PGF2α were administrated to all cows at 14-day intervals. Following the second PGF2α administration, insemination and GnRH administration was performed at the 60^th h after PGF2α treatment. Smear samples were stained with Giemsa and immunohistochemically to determine cytological changes and inflammatory status.

Results

According to cytological findings, subclinical endometritis was a prevalent disorder in cows with infertility problem (82.5%; 33/40). Additionally, 60.6% (20/33) of the cows with subclinical endometritis had acute inflammation, whereas remaining 13 cows had chronic endometritis. Of the cows with subclinical endometritis, 50% (8/16) and 35% (6/17) became pregnant in group I and II, respectively (P > 0.05). Although the oxidative stress parameters showed similarities between both groups (P > 0.05), there was a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the groups in terms of mean NO and LOOH levels (NO - 31.20 ± 11.38 vs 44.53 ± 11.50 μmol/L and LOOH - 1.22 ± 0.37 vs 1.89 ± 0.36 μmol/L).

Conclusion

The obtained results indicated that MC administration, especially in the presence of active inflammation, may improve the pregnancy rate by positive reduction of oxidative changes.

Licochalcone E protects against carbon tetrachloride‑induced liver toxicity by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma

The present study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective role of Licochalcone E (LCE) and its mechanism of action in a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver toxicity. Hepatotoxicity was induced in Kunming mice via an intraperitoneal injection (IP) of CCl₄, 10 ml/kg body weight, diluted with corn oil at a 1:500 ratio. LCE was administered once a day for 7 days (IP) as pretreatment at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day. The levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were analyzed to determine the inflammation status. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were analyzed using ELISA assays. Liver ultrastructure was observed via optical microscopy. The mRNA and protein expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ, and nuclear factor (NF)-κB were assayed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, respectively. Pretreatment with LCE decreased levels of ALT, AST, CRP and TNF-α, and NF-κB expression in the experimental hepatotoxicity mice model induced by CCl₄. In addition, LCE increased the expression of PPARγ and normalized the hepatic histoarchitecture. However, the effects of LCE were reversed by cotreatment with the PPARγ inhibitor GW9662. The present study suggests that LCE may be used for the treatment of hepatotoxicity, and primarily exhibits its protective role through a PPARγ/NF-κB-mediated pathway.

Apocynin prevented inflammation and oxidative stress in carbon tetra chloride induced hepatic dysfunction in rats

BACKGROUND

Liver fibrosis is a leading pathway to cirrhosis and a global clinical issue. Oxidative stress mediated tissue damage is one of the prime causes of hepatic dysfunction and fibrosis. Apocynin is one of many strong antioxidants.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of apocynin in the CCl₄ administered hepatic dysfunction in rats.

METHODS

Female Long Evans rats were administered with CCl₄ orally (1mL/kg) twice a week for 2 weeks and were treated with apocynin (100mg/kg). Both plasma and liver tissues were analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase activities. Oxidative stress parameters were also measured by determining malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), myeloperoxidase (MPO), advanced protein oxidation product (APOP). In addition, antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in plasma and liver tissues were analyzed. Moreover, inflammation and tissue fibrosis were confirmed by histological staining of liver tissue sections.

RESULTS

Apocynin significantly reduced serum AST, ALT, and ALP activities in carbon tetrachloride treated rats. It also exhibited a considerable reduction of the oxidative stress markers (MDA, MPO, NO, and APOP level) which was elevated due to CCl₄ administration in rats. Apocynin treatment also restored the catalase and superoxide dismutase activity in CCl₄ treated rats. Histological analysis of liver sections revealed that apocynin prevented inflammatory cells infiltration and fibrosis in CCl₄ administered rats.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that apocynin protects liver damage induced by CCl₄ by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and stimulating the cellular antioxidant system.

The protective effect of hyperoside on carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic liver fibrosis in mice via upregulation of Nrf2

CONTEXT

Hyperoside was used to treat cardiovascular disease for many years in China. It was shown great effect on regulation of lipid metabolism. But there is lack of reports about the effects of hyperoside on liver diseases.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to investigate the potentially protective effects of hyperoside and the role of transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2(NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling in the regulation on Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced chronic liver fibrosis in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All mice were divided into six groups containing 6 animals per group. Mice in different group were given relative processing for 4 weeks. The potentially protective effects of hyperoside on CCl₄-induced chronic liver fibrosis in mice were depicted histologically and biochemically.

RESULTS

CCl₄ administration caused a marked increase in the levels of serum aminotransferases, serum monoamine oxidase (MAO) and lipid peroxidation, MAO in mouse liver homogenates. Also decreased activities of cellular antioxidant defense enzymes were found after CCl₄ exposure. Histopathological changes induced by CCl₄ including regenerative nodules, deteriorated parenchyma. Hyperoside and silymarin reduced these changes and attenuated the pathological effects of CCl₄ induced liver injury. In addition, hyperoside exhibited antioxidant effects in vitro. In Western blot analysis, the protein level of Nrf2 was downregulated after CCl₄ administration and reversed by hyperoside.

CONCLUSION

Hyperoside increased the activity of the antioxidant and phase II detoxifying enzymes through the activation of Nrf2 nuclear translocated in the CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis mice.

Astaxanthin Ameliorates Hepatic Damage and Oxidative Stress in Carbon Tetrachloride-administered Rats

Background

Astaxanthin is of carotenoids group which possess strong antioxidant properties. The present study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of astaxanthin in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-treated rats.

Materials and Methods

Female Long-Evans rats were administered with CCl₄ orally (1 ml/kg) twice a week for 2 weeks and were treated with astaxanthin (10 mg/kg) every day for 2 weeks. Blood plasma samples were isolated from each group and were analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase activities. Oxidative stress parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and advanced protein oxidation product (APOP) were measured. Several enzyme functions such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities in the plasma and liver tissues were also analyzed. Moreover, inflammation and tissue fibrosis were also confirmed by histological staining of liver tissues.

Results

This investigation revealed that CCl₄ administration in rats increased plasma AST, ALT, and ALP activities which were normalized by astaxanthin treatment. Moreover, CCl₄ administration increased as MDA, NO, and APOP level both in plasma and tissues compared to control rats. Astaxanthin also exhibited a significant reduction of those parameters in CCl₄-administered rats. Astaxanthin treatment also restored the CAT and SOD activities and lowered MPO activity in CCl₄-administered rats. Histological assessment also revealed that the astaxanthin prevented the inflammatory cells infiltration, decreased free iron deposition, and fibrosis in liver of CCl₄-administered rats.

Conclusion

These results suggest that astaxanthin protects liver damage induced by CCl₄ by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and stimulating the cellular antioxidant system.

SUMMARY

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) administration increased oxidative stress-mediated hepatic damage and inflammation in ratsAstaxanthin, a potent antioxidant, prevents oxidative stress and inflammatory cells infiltration in CCl₄-administered ratsAstaxanthin also ameliorated the progression of hepatic fibrosis in CCl₄-administered rats. Abbreviations Used: APOP: Advanced protein oxidation product; AST: Aspartate aminotransferase; ALT: Alanine aminotransferase; ALP: Alkaline phosphatase; CAT: Catalase; CCl4: Carbon tetrachloride; CVD: Cardiovascular disease; HSCs: Hepatic stellate cells; H2O2: Hydrogen peroxide; MDA: Malondialdehyde; MMP2: Matrix metalloproteinase2; MPO: Myeloperoxidase; NF-κB: Nuclear factor kappa B; NO: Nitric oxide; Nrf2: Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; ·ONOO-: Peroxynitrate; ROS: Reactive oxygen species; SOD: superoxide dismutase; TCA: Trichloroacetic acid; TBA: Thiobarbituric acid; TGF-1: Transforming growth factor 1, TGF-β: Transforming growth factor-β; TIMP1: Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha;·CCl3: Trichloromethyl free radical; CCl3O2-: Trichloroperoxyl radical.

Enhancing Activity of Anticancer Drugs in Multidrug Resistant Tumors by Modulating P-Glycoprotein through Dietary Nutraceuticals

Multidrug resistance is a principal mechanism by which tumors become resistant to structurally and functionally unrelated anticancer drugs. Resistance to chemotherapy has been correlated with overexpression of p-glycoprotein (p-gp), a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily of membrane transporters. P-gp mediates resistance to a broad-spectrum of anticancer drugs including doxorubicin, taxol, and vinca alkaloids by actively expelling the drugs from cells. Use of specific inhibitors/blocker of p-gp in combination with clinically important anticancer drugs has emerged as a new paradigm for overcoming multidrug resistance. The aim of this paper is to review p-gp regulation by dietary nutraceuticals and to correlate this dietary nutraceutical induced-modulation of p-gp with activity of anticancer drugs.

Hepatoprotective effects of licochalcone B on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity in mice

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of licochalcone B (LCB) in a mice model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced in mice by a single subcutaneous injection (SC) of CCl4. The LCB was administered orally once a day for seven days (PO) as pretreatment at three doses of 1, 5, and 25 mg/kg/day. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulfide (GSSG), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were analyzed by ELISA. The protein expression degrees of p38 mitogen activated protein kinases (p38) and nuclear factor-k-gene binding (NF-κB) were assayed by western blotting.

RESULTS

CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity was manifested by an increase in the levels of ALT, AST, MDA, IL-6, CRP, and TNF-ɑ, and a decrease in the SOD level and GSH/GSSG ratio in the serum. The histopathological examination of the liver sections revealed necrosis and inflammatory reactions. Pretreatment with LCB decreased the levels of ALT, AST, MDA, GSSG, IL-6, CRP, TNF-ɑ, and the protein expression of p38 and NF-κB, increased the level of SOD and GSH, and normalized the hepatic histo-architecture.

CONCLUSION

LCB protected the liver from CCl4-induced injury. Protection may be due to inhibition of p38 and NFκB signaling, which subsequently reduced inflammation in the liver.

Hawthorn Fruit Extract Elevates Expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and Improves Lipid Profiles in Ovariectomized Rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) extract on the lipid profiles and antioxidant properties in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. After ovariectomy, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: the non-OVX control (Sham), the OVX-control (OVX), the OVX + 100 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OL), and the OVX + 200 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OH). The final body weights of the OVX group were significantly increased, but the increment was significantly decreased in hawthorn groups (p < 0.05). The serum total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were significantly elevated in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups showed a significant decrease in these levels (p < 0.05). The hepatic triglyceride (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced in the hawthorn groups compared with the OVX group (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly decreased in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups exhibited a significant increase in expression (p < 0.05). The protein expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and GPx were lower in the OVX group than the Sham group (p < 0.05). The oral administration of hawthorn extract reversed the suppression of protein levels. These results suggest that hawthorn extract could have protective effects in OVX rats by improving lipid profiles, decreasing oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant defense system.

Therapeutic value of melatonin post-treatment on CCl4-induced fibrotic rat liver

Melatonin is known for being beneficial in targeting liver diseases. This study aimed to investigate whether melatonin post-treatment is capable of rat carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis reduction. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: normal; fibrosis with CCl4 injection (1 mL/kg) twice weekly for 8 weeks; phosphate-buffered saline (PBS); and melatonin (20 mg/kg) for a further 4 weeks on cessation of CCl4. At the beginning of week 13, liver tissue samples were used for hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Masson’s trichrome (MT), and Oil Red O staining, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), MMP-13, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Bcl-2, and Bax genes as well as immunofluorescence (IF) of the first 3, and sera for measurement of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin, and hydroxyproline. Chronic administration of CCl4 followed by considerable increase in tissue disruption, macro- and micro-vesicles, collagen, lipid droplets (LDs), AST, ALT, hydroxyproline, TGF-β1, and Bax, and decrease in glycogen depository, albumin, Bcl-2, MMP-9, and MMP-13; however, the pattern was reverse when it comes to melatonin treatment (for all p < 0.05). Our results reveal the beneficial aspects of melatonin in treatment of liver fibrosis probably via inhibition of TGF-β1expression.

Hepatocyte Growth Factor Mediates the Antifibrogenic Action of Ocimum bacilicum Essential Oil against CCl4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats

The current investigation aimed to evaluate the antifibrogenic potential of Ocimum basilicum essential oil (OBE) and further to explore some of its underlying mechanisms. Three groups of rats were used: group I (control), group II (CCl₄ model) and group III (OBE-treated) received CCl₄ and OBE 2 weeks after the start of CCl₄ administration. Oxidative damage was assessed by the measurement of MDA, NO, SOD, CAT, GSH and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Liver fibrosis was assessed histopathologically by Masson’s trichrome staining and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunostaining. Expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and cytochrome P450 (CYP2EI isoform) was estimated using real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. OBE successfully attenuated liver injury, as shown by histopathology, decreased serum transaminases and improved oxidative status of the liver. Reduced collagen deposition and α-SMA immuopositive cells indicated an abrogation of hepatic stellate cell activation by OBE. Furthermore, OBE was highly effective in stimulating HGF mRNA and protein expression and inhibiting CCl₄-induced CYP2E1 down-regulation. The mechanism of antifibrogenic action of OBE is hypothesized to proceed via scavenging free radicals and activating liver regeneration by induction of HGF. These data suggest the use of OBE as a complementary treatment in liver fibrosis.