Sulforaphane Protects against Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction-Induced Renal Damage in Rats by Alleviating Mitochondrial and Lipid Metabolism Impairment

Sulforaphane alleviates renal fibrosis through dual regulation on mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway

Renal fibrosis is a common pathological process of progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, effective therapy is constrained currently. Autophagy is an important mechanism in kidney injury and repairment but its exact role in renal fibrosis was discrepant according to previous studies. Sulforaphane (SFN), a natural plant compound, has been explored as a promising nutritional therapy for a variety of diseases. But the salutary effect and underlying mechanism of SFN on CKD have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effect of SFN on renal fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice. Then we examined the regulatory effect of SFN on autophagy-related proteins in renal fibroblasts and renal tubular epithelial cells. Our results showed that sulforaphane could significantly alleviate renal fibrosis in UUO mice. In vitro, the expression levels of autophagy-related protein showed that SFN could upregulate the autophagy activity of renal interstitial fibroblasts and downregulate the autophagy activity of renal tubular epithelial cells. Furthermore, we found that phosphorylated mTOR protein levels was reduced in renal fibroblasts and increased in renal tubular epithelial cells after SFN treatment. Our results strongly suggested that SFN could alleviate renal fibrosis through dual regulation of mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway. This finding may provide a new perspective on the renal salutary effect of SFN and provide a preclinical rationale for exploring the therapeutic potential of SFN to slow down renal fibrosis.

Sulforaphane Restores Mitochondrial β-Oxidation and Reduces Renal Lipid Accumulation in a Model of Releasing Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction

Obstructive nephropathy (ON), characterized by urine flow disruption, can induce chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although the release of the obstruction is performed as the primary intervention, renal pathology often persists and progresses. Accordingly, the murine model of releasing unilateral ureteral obstruction (RUUO) is valuable for investigating the molecular events underlying renal damage after obstruction release. Remarkably, after RUUO, disturbances such as oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid accumulation, and fibrosis continue to increase. Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to fibrosis in the UUO model, but its role in RUUO remains unclear. Additionally, the impact of using antioxidants to restore mitochondrial function and prevent renal fibrosis in RUUO has not been determined. This study aimed to determine the therapeutic effect of pre-administering the antioxidant sulforaphane (SFN) in the RUUO model. SFN was administered 1 day before RUUO to evaluate mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acids (FA) metabolism, bioenergetics, dynamics, and mitophagy/autophagy mechanisms in the kidney. Our data demonstrated that SFN enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and reestablished mitochondrial oxygen consumption and β-oxidation. These effects collectively reduced lipid accumulation and normalized mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and autophagy, thereby mitigating fibrosis after obstruction. Our findings suggest that SFN holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent in ON-induced CKD progression in RUUO and opens new avenues in studying antioxidant molecules to treat this disease.

Exploring the molecular mechanisms for renoprotective effects of Huangkui capsule on diabetic nephropathy mice by comprehensive serum metabolomics analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huangkui capsule (HKC), a patent traditional Chinese medicine, has shown significant efficacy in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly diabetic nephropathy (DN). Previous studies have shown that HKC can alleviate kidney damage in DN. However, the exact mechanisms through which it exerts its effects remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms of HKC in treating kidney injury in type 1 diabetic nephropathy (T1DN) models through serum metabolomics, Chinmedomics, and molecular docking techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T1DN mouse models were induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ), resulting in the ACR value ten times that of the control group. The efficacy of HKC on T1DN was comprehensively evaluated in general conditions, renal coefficient, histopathology, and related biochemical indicators. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS based serum metabolomics was employed to identify biomarkers of T1DN and evaluate the effects of HKC. Relevant pathways were analyzed, and followed by Protein-Protein Interaction network analysis to screen for key enzymes. By integrating the Chinmedomics strategy and molecular docking the relationship between these targets and active components was elucitaed.

RESULTS

HKC resulted in a significant reduction in renal inflammation and fibrosis, as evidenced by the decreased levels of urinary ACR, blood TG, T-CHO, BUN, and renal TNF-α and VEGF-A, along with a reduction in the positive area of COL-1. Palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidonic acid, pantothenic acid, and sphingosine-1-phosphate serve as key serum metabolite biomarkers for T1DN, involved in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, arachidonic acid metabolism, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, and sphingolipid metabolism. FASN, Cyp2e1, and Cyp4a32 are the key enzymes in the treatment of T1DN with HKC. Additionally, 8 key active components were identified in the serum of HKC-H, including quercetin, myricetin, isoquercitrin, hyperoside, hibifolin, gentisic acid 5-O-β-glucoside, floramanoside F, and quercetin-4'-O-glucoside, which are believed to interact with key enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

The active components of HKC influence Fasn, Cyp2e1, and Cy4a32, improving renal injury in T1DN. These findings provide new molecular insights for the future clinical application and research of HKC in treating T1DN.

Sulforaphane regulation autophagy-mediated pyroptosis in autoimmune hepatitis via AMPK/mTOR pathway

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease marked by inflammation of unknown origin. If untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure, posing a significant health risk. Currently, effective drug therapies are lacking in clinical practice. Sulforaphane (SFN), a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound found in various cruciferous vegetables, alleviate pyroptosis and improve impaired autophagic flux, both of which contribute to AIH progression. However, whether SFN modulates autophagic flux and pyroptosis in S100-induced EAH through the AMPK/mTOR pathway remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether SFN can regulate AIH and elucidate its potential mechanisms of action. In this study, experimental AIH (EAH) was induced in male C57BL/6 J mice through intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of S100. SFN was administered intraperitoneally every other day. After 28 days, the mice were euthanized, and their livers and serum were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. AML12 cells were used for the in vitro studies. The results showed that SFN mitigated pyroptosis by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and improving autophagic flux, which alleviates S100-induced EAH. Conversely, the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA negated the protective effects of SFN against inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. Furthermore, SFN activated the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway, offering protection against S100-induced EAH. Selective inhibition of AMPK suppressed the improvement in autophagic flux and protected against SFN-induced pyroptosis. Overall, SFN significantly ameliorates S100-induced EAH by enhancing autophagic flux and mitigating pyroptosis through activation of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.

Targeting mitochondrial function as a potential therapeutic approach for allergic asthma

Allergic asthma is a chronic complex airway disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, eosinophilic inflammation, excessive mucus secretion, and airway remodeling, with increasing mortality and incidence globally. The pathogenesis of allergic asthma is influenced by various factors including genetics, environment, and immune responses, making it complex and diverse. Recent studies have found that various cellular functions of mitochondria such as calcium regulation, adenosine triphosphate production, changes in redox potential, and free radical scavenging, are involved in regulating the pathogenesis of asthma. This review explores the involvement of mitochondrial functional changes in the pathogenesis of asthma, and investigate the potential of targeting cellular mitochondria as a therapeutic approach for asthma. Those insights can provide a novel theoretical foundations and treatment strategies for understanding and preventing asthma.

Role of mitochondria in reno-cardiac diseases: A study of bioenergetics, biogenesis, and GSH signaling in disease transition

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are global health burdens with rising prevalence. Their bidirectional relationship with cardiovascular dysfunction, manifesting as cardio-renal syndromes (CRS) types 3 and 4, underscores the interconnectedness and interdependence of these vital organ systems. Both the kidney and the heart are critically reliant on mitochondrial function. This organelle is currently recognized as a hub in signaling pathways, with emphasis on the redox regulation mediated by glutathione (GSH). Mitochondrial dysfunction, including impaired bioenergetics, redox, and biogenesis pathways, are central to the progression of AKI to CKD and the development of CRS type 3 and 4. This review delves into the metabolic reprogramming and mitochondrial redox signaling and biogenesis alterations in AKI, CKD, and CRS. We examine the pathophysiological mechanisms involving GSH redox signaling and the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-sirtuin (SIRT)1/3-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator (PGC-1α) axis in these conditions. Additionally, we explore the therapeutic potential of GSH synthesis inducers in mitigating these mitochondrial dysfunctions, as well as their effects on inflammation and the progression of CKD and CRS types 3 and 4.

Sulforaphane upregulates the mRNA expression of NRF2 and NQO1 in non-dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease

Sulforaphane (SFN), found in cruciferous vegetables, is a known activator of NRF2 (master regulator of cellular antioxidant responses). Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) present an imbalance in the redox state, presenting reduced expression of NRF2 and increased expression of NF-κB. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of SFN on the mRNA expression of NRF2, NF-κB and markers of oxidative stress in patients with CKD. Here, we observed a significant increase in the mRNA expression of NRF2 (p = 0.02) and NQO1 (p = 0.04) in the group that received 400 μg/day of SFN for 1 month. Furthermore, we observed an improvement in the levels of phosphate (p = 0.02), glucose (p = 0.05) and triglycerides (p = 0.02) also in this group. On the other hand, plasma levels of LDL-c (p = 0.04) and total cholesterol (p = 0.03) increased in the placebo group during the study period. In conclusion, 400 μg/day of SFN for one month improves the antioxidant system and serum glucose and phosphate levels in non-dialysis CKD patients.

Sulforaphane enhanced muscle growth by promoting lipid oxidation through modulating key signaling pathways

Sulforaphane (SFN) has shown diverse effects on human health and diseases. SFN was administered daily to C57BL/6J mice at doses of 1 mg/kg (SFN1) and 3 mg/kg (SFN3) for 8 weeks. Both doses of SFN accelerated body weight increment. The cross-sectional area and diameter of Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle fibers were enlarged in SFN3 group. Triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels in LD muscle were decreased in SFN groups. RNA sequencing results revealed that 2455 and 2318 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found in SFN1 and SFN3 groups, respectively. Based on GO enrichment analysis, 754 and 911 enriched GO terms in the SFN1 and SFN3 groups, respectively. KEGG enrichment analysis shown that one KEGG pathway was enriched in the SFN1 group, while six KEGG pathways were enriched in the SFN3 group. The expressions of nine selected DEGs validated with qRT-PCR were in line with the RNA sequencing data. Furthermore, SFN treatment influenced lipid and protein metabolism related pathways including AMPK signaling, fatty acid metabolism signaling, cholesterol metabolism signalling, PPAR signaling, peroxisome signaling, TGFβ signaling, and mTOR signaling. In summary, SFN elevated muscle fibers size and reduced TG and TC content of in LD muscle by modulating protein and lipid metabolism-related signaling pathways.

Protective effects of sulforaphane against toxic substances and contaminants: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a dietary isothiocyanate, derived from glucoraphanin, present in cruciferous vegetables belonging to the Brassica genus. It is a biologically active phytochemical that acts as a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inducer. Thus, it has been reported to have multiple protective functions including anticancer responses and protection against a toxic agent's action.

PURPOSE

The present work systematically reviewed and synthesised the protective properties of sulforaphane against a toxic agent. This review reveals the mechanism of the action of SFN in each organ or system.

METHODS

The PRISMA guideline was followed in this sequence: researched literature, organised retrieved documents, abstracted relevant information, assessed study quality and bias, synthesised data, and prepared a comprehensive report. Searches were conducted on Science Direct and PubMed using the keywords "Sulforaphane" AND ("protective effects" OR "protection against").

RESULTS

Reports showed that liver and the nervous system are the target organs on which attention was focused, and this might be due to the key role of oxidative stress in liver and neurodegenerative diseases. However, protective activities have also been demonstrated in the lungs, heart, immune system, kidneys, and endocrine system. SFN exerts its protective effects by activating the Nrf2 pathway, which enhances antioxidant defenses and reduces oxidative stress. It also suppresses inflammation by decreasing interleukin production. Moreover, SFN inhibits apoptosis by preventing caspase 3 cleavage and increasing Bcl2 levels. Overall, SFN demonstrates multifaceted mechanisms to counteract the adverse effects of toxic agents.

CONCLUSION

SFN has potential clinical applications as a chemoprotective agent. Nevertheless, more studies are necessary to set the safe doses of SFN in humans.

Sulforaphane protects from kidney damage during the release of unilateral ureteral obstruction (RUUO) by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2): Role of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic mechanisms

Releasing unilateral ureteral obstruction (RUUO) is the gold standard for decreasing renal damage induced during unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO); however, the complete recovery after RUUO depends on factors such as the time and severity of obstruction and kidney contralateral compensatory mechanisms. Interestingly, previous studies have shown that kidney damage markers such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis are present and even increase after removal obstruction. To date, previous therapeutic strategies have been used to potentiate the recovery of renal function after RUUO; however, the mechanisms involving renal damage reduction are poorly described and sometimes focus on the recovery of renal functionality. Furthermore, using natural antioxidants has not been completely studied in the RUUO model. In this study, we selected sulforaphane (SFN) because it activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor that induces an antioxidant response, decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation, preventing apoptosis. Thus, we pre-administrated SFN on the second day after UUO until day five, where we released the obstruction on the three days after UUO. Then, we assessed oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis markers. Interestingly, we found that SFN administration in the RUUO model activated Nrf2, inducing its translocation to the nucleus to activate its target proteins. Thus, the Nrf2 activation upregulated glutathione (GSH) content and the antioxidant enzymes catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR), which reduced the oxidative stress markers. Moreover, the improvement of antioxidant response by SFN restored S-glutathionylation in the mitochondrial fraction. Activated Nrf2 also reduced inflammation by lessening the nucleotide-binding domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) production. Reducing oxidative stress and inflammation prevented apoptosis by avoiding caspase 3 cleavage and increasing B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) levels. Taken together, the obtained results in our study showed that the upregulation of Nrf2 by SFN decreases oxidative stress, preventing inflammation and apoptosis cell death during the release of UUO.

Single cell multi-omics of fibrotic kidney reveal epigenetic regulation of antioxidation and apoptosis within proximal tubule

BACKGROUND

Until now, there has been no particularly effective treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Fibrosis is a common pathological change that exist in CKD.

METHODS

To better understand the transcriptional dynamics in fibrotic kidney, we make use of single-nucleus assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (snATAC-seq) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) from GEO datasets and perform scRNA-seq of human biopsy to seek possible transcription factors (TFs) regulating target genes in the progress of kidney fibrosis across mouse and human kidneys.

RESULTS

Our analysis has displayed chromatin accessibility, gene expression pattern and cell-cell communications at single-cell level in kidneys suffering from unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) or chronic interstitial nephritis (CIN). Using multimodal data, there exists epigenetic regulation producing less Sod1 and Sod2 mRNA within the proximal tubule which is hard to withstand oxidative stress during fibrosis. Meanwhile, a transcription factor Nfix promoting the apoptosis-related gene Ifi27 expression found by multimodal data was validated by an in vitro study. And the gene Ifi27 upregulated by in situ AAV injection within the kidney cortex aggravates kidney fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, as we know oxidation and apoptosis are traumatic factors during fibrosis, thus enhancing antioxidation and inhibiting the Nfix-Ifi27 pathway to inhibit apoptosis could be a potential treatment for kidney fibrosis.

Focus on Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain: Potential Therapeutic Target for Chronic Renal Failure

The function of the respiratory chain is closely associated with kidney function, and the dysfunction of the respiratory chain is a primary pathophysiological change in chronic kidney failure. The incidence of chronic kidney failure caused by defects in respiratory-chain-related genes has frequently been overlooked. Correcting abnormal metabolic reprogramming, rescuing the "toxic respiratory chain", and targeting the clearance of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species are potential therapies for treating chronic kidney failure. These treatments have shown promising results in slowing fibrosis and inflammation progression and improving kidney function in various animal models of chronic kidney failure and patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The mitochondrial respiratory chain is a key target worthy of attention in the treatment of chronic kidney failure. This review integrated research related to the mitochondrial respiratory chain and chronic kidney failure, primarily elucidating the pathological status of the mitochondrial respiratory chain in chronic kidney failure and potential therapeutic drugs. It provided new ideas for the treatment of kidney failure and promoted the development of drugs targeting the mitochondrial respiratory chain.

The protective role of sulforaphane and Homer1a in retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury: Unraveling the neuroprotective interplay

AIMS

Retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common pathological basis for various ophthalmic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the potential of sulforaphane (SFN) and Homer1a in regulating cell apoptosis induced by retinal I/R injury and to explore the underlying regulatory mechanism between them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In in vivo experiments, C57BL/6J mice and Homer1flox/-/Homer1a+/-/Nestin-Cre+/- mice were used to construct retinal I/R injury models. In vitro experiments utilized the oxygen-glucose deprivation-reperfusion (OGD/R) injury model with primary retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The effects of Homer1a and SFN on cell apoptosis were observed through pathological analyses, flow cytometry, and visual electrophysiological assessments.

KEY FINDINGS

We discovered that after OGD/R injury, apoptosis of RGCs and intracellular Ca2+ activity significantly increased. However, these changes were reversed upon the addition of SFN, and similar observations were reproduced in in vivo studies. Furthermore, both in vivo and in vitro studies confirmed the upregulation of Homer1a after I/R, which could be further enhanced by the administration of SFN. Moreover, upregulation of Homer1a resulted in a reduction in cell apoptosis and pro-apoptotic proteins, while downregulation of Homer1a had the opposite effect. Flash visual evoked potential, oscillatory potentials, and escape latency measurements in mice supported these findings. Furthermore, the addition of SFN strengthened the neuroprotective effects in the OGD/R + H+ group but weakened them in Homer1flox/-/Homer1a+/-/Nestin-Cre+/- mice.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results indicate that Homer1a plays a significant role in the therapeutic potential of sulforaphane for retinal I/R injury, thereby providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment.

Lactate: A Theranostic Biomarker for Metabolic Psychiatry?

Alterations in neurometabolism and mitochondria are implicated in the pathophysiology of psychiatric conditions such as mood disorders and schizophrenia. Thus, developing objective biomarkers related to brain mitochondrial function is crucial for the development of interventions, such as central nervous system penetrating agents that target brain health. Lactate, a major circulatory fuel source that can be produced and utilized by the brain and body, is presented as a theranostic biomarker for neurometabolic dysfunction in psychiatric conditions. This concept is based on three key properties of lactate that make it an intriguing metabolic intermediate with implications for this field: Firstly, the lactate response to various stimuli, including physiological or psychological stress, represents a quantifiable and dynamic marker that reflects metabolic and mitochondrial health. Second, lactate concentration in the brain is tightly regulated according to the sleep-wake cycle, the dysregulation of which is implicated in both metabolic and mood disorders. Third, lactate universally integrates arousal behaviours, pH, cellular metabolism, redox states, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and can signal and encode this information via intra- and extracellular pathways in the brain. In this review, we expand on the above properties of lactate and discuss the methodological developments and rationale for the use of functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy for in vivo monitoring of brain lactate. We conclude that accurate and dynamic assessment of brain lactate responses might contribute to the development of novel and personalized therapies that improve mitochondrial health in psychiatric disorders and other conditions associated with neurometabolic dysfunction.

α-Mangostin induces oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis in a triple-negative breast cancer model

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) does not express estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor; therefore, TNBC lacks targeted therapy, and chemotherapy is the only available treatment for this illness but causes side effects. A putative strategy for the treatment of TNBC could be the use of the polyphenols such as α-Mangostin (α-M), which has shown anticancerogenic effects in different cancer models and can modulate the inflammatory and prooxidant state in several pathological models. The redox state, oxidative stress (OS), and oxidative damage are highly related to cancer development and its treatment. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of α-M on redox state, mitochondrial metabolism, and apoptosis in 4T1 mammary carcinoma cells. We found that α-M decreases both protein levels and enzymatic activity of catalase, and increases reactive oxygen species, oxidized proteins and glutathione disulfide, which demonstrates that α-M induces oxidative damage. We also found that α-M promotes mitochondrial dysfunction by abating basal respiration, the respiration ligated to oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and the rate control of whole 4T1 cells. Additionally, α-M also decreases the levels of OXPHOS subunits of mitochondrial complexes I, II, III, and adenosine triphosphate synthase, the activity of mitochondrial complex I as well as the levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma co-activator 1α, showing a mitochondrial mass reduction. Then, oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by α-M induce apoptosis of 4T1 cells, which is evidenced by B cell lymphoma 2 decrease and caspase 3 cleavage. Taken together, our results suggest that α-M induces OS and mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in 4T1 cell death through apoptotic mechanisms.

Sulforaphane Inhibits Foam Cell Formation and Atherosclerosis via Mechanisms Involving the Modulation of Macrophage Cholesterol Transport and the Related Phenotype

Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate, is one of the major dietary phytochemicals found in cruciferous vegetables. Many studies suggest that SFN can protect against cancer and cardiometabolic diseases. Despite the proposed systemic and local vascular protective mechanisms, SFN's potential to inhibit atherogenesis by targeting macrophages remains unknown. In this study, in high fat diet fed ApoE-deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice, oral SFN treatment improved dyslipidemia and inhibited atherosclerotic plaque formation and the unstable phenotype, as demonstrated by reductions in the lesion areas in both the aortic sinus and whole aorta, percentages of necrotic cores, vascular macrophage infiltration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In THP-1-derived macrophages, preadministration SFN alleviated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial injury. Moreover, a functional study revealed that peritoneal macrophages isolated from SFN-treated mice exhibited attenuated cholesterol influx and enhanced apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I)- and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-mediated cholesterol efflux. Mechanistic analysis revealed that SFN supplementation induced both intralesional and intraperitoneal macrophage phenotypic switching toward high expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and ATP-binding cassette subfamily A/G member 1 (ABCA1/G1) and low expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), which was further validated by the aortic protein expression. These results suggest that the regulation of macrophages' cholesterol transport and accumulation may be mainly responsible for SFN's potential atheroprotective properties, and the regulatory mechanisms might involve upregulating ABCA1/G1 and downregulating CD36 via the modulation of PPARγ and Nrf2.

Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of NRF2 in Kidney Injury and Diseases

Redox is a constant phenomenon in organisms. From the signaling pathway transduction to the oxidative stress during the inflammation and disease process, all are related to reduction-oxidation (redox). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor targeting many antioxidant genes. In non-stressed conditions, NRF2 maintains the hemostasis of redox with housekeeping work. It expresses constitutively with basal activity, maintained by Kelch-like-ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)-associated ubiquitination and degradation. When encountering stress, it can be up-regulated by several mechanisms to exert its anti-oxidative ability in diseases or inflammatory processes to protect tissues and organs from further damage. From acute kidney injury to chronic kidney diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy or glomerular disease, many results of studies have suggested that, as a master of regulating redox, NRF2 is a therapeutic option. It was not until the early termination of the clinical phase 3 trial of diabetic nephropathy due to heart failure as an unexpected side effect that we renewed our understanding of NRF2. NRF2 is not just a simple antioxidant capacity but has pleiotropic activities, harmful or helpful, depending on the conditions and backgrounds.

Nrf2 Activation Does Not Protect from Aldosterone-Induced Kidney Damage in Mice

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is downregulated in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Activation of Nrf2 might be a therapeutic option in CKD. Here we investigate the effect of Nrf2 activation on aldosterone (Aldo)-induced renal injury. Wild-type (WT) mice, transgenic Keap1 hypomorphic (Nrf2ꜛ, genotype results in upregulation of Nrf2 expression) mice and WT mice treated with the Nrf2 activator sulforaphane (Sulf) received Aldo for 4 weeks. In Aldo-treated mice, kidneys were significantly heavier and pathologically altered, reflected by increased urinary albumin levels and tissue damage. In Nrf2ꜛ-Aldo mice the tubule damage marker NGAL was significantly decreased. Increased oxidative damage markers (8-OHdG, 15-isoprostane F_2t) were measured in all Aldo-treated groups. Aldo-increased Nrf2 amounts were mainly found in the late tubule system. The amount of phosphorylated and thus putatively active Nrf2 was significantly increased by Aldo only in WT mice. However, expression of Nrf2 target genes NQO1 and HO1 was decreased in all Aldo-infused mice. GSK3β, which promotes Nrf2 degradation, was significantly increased in the kidneys of Aldo-treated WT mice. Neither genetic nor pharmacological Nrf2 activation was able to prevent oxidative injury induced by Aldo, probably due to induction of negative regulators of Nrf2.

Hypoglycemic effect of Coffea arabica leaf extracts and major bioactive constituents

The present study focused on investigating the antioxidant, antiglycation activity, digestive enzymes inhibition, bioaccessibility and hypoglycemic effect of C. arabica leaves extracts. The extracts deactivated the O2•-, ROO•, H2O2, HOCl reactive oxygen species. Coffee leaves showed strong inhibition of α-glucosidase (IC50 = 40.30 μg mL-1) greater than the isolated metabolites and acarbose. There was also inhibition of pancreatic lipase (IC50 = 56.43 μg mL-1) in addition to a hypoglycemic effect in zebrafish similar to acarbose and metformin. With the exception of rutin, all biocompounds were detected at all stages of in vitro digestion. Finally, these results suggest that C. arabica leaf extracts possess antidiabetic and anti-obesity properties that can be attributed to the main metabolites and the synergistic action between them.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The Development of Dyslipidemia in Chronic Kidney Disease and Associated Cardiovascular Damage, and the Protective Effects of Curcuminoids

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a health problem that is constantly growing. This disease presents a diverse symptomatology that implies complex therapeutic management. One of its characteristic symptoms is dyslipidemia, which becomes a risk factor for developing cardiovascular diseases and increases the mortality of CKD patients. Various drugs, particularly those used for dyslipidemia, consumed in the course of CKD lead to side effects that delay the patient's recovery. Therefore, it is necessary to implement new therapies with natural compounds, such as curcuminoids (derived from the Curcuma longa plant), which can cushion the damage caused by the excessive use of medications. This manuscript aims to review the current evidence on the use of curcuminoids on dyslipidemia in CKD and CKD-induced cardiovascular disease (CVD). We first described oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and metabolic reprogramming as factors that induce dyslipidemia in CKD and their association with CVD development. We proposed the potential use of curcuminoids in CKD and their utilization in clinics to treat CKD-dyslipidemia.

GK-1 Induces Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Decreased Membrane Potential, and Impaired Autophagy Flux in a Mouse Model of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cancer worldwide in women. During the last decades, the mortality due to breast cancer has progressively decreased due to early diagnosis and the emergence of more effective new treatments. However, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remain with poor prognoses. In our research group, we are proposing the GK-1 immunomodulatory peptide as a new alternative for immunotherapy of these aggressive tumors. GK-1 reduced the growth rate of established tumors and effectively reduced lung metastasis in the 4T1 experimental murine model of breast cancer. Herein, the effect of GK-1 on the redox state, mitochondrial metabolism, and autophagy of triple-negative tumors that can be linked to cancer evolution was studied. GK-1 decreased catalase activity, reduced glutathione (GSH) content and GSH/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio while increased hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production, GSSG, and protein carbonyl content, inducing oxidative stress (OS) in tumoral tissues. This imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants was related to mitochondrial dysfunction and uncoupling, characterized by reduced mitochondrial respiratory parameters and dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), respectively. Furthermore, GK-1 likely affected autophagy flux, confirmed by elevated levels of p62, a marker of autophagy flux. Overall, the induction of OS, dysfunction, and uncoupling of the mitochondria and the reduction of autophagy could be molecular mechanisms that underlie the reduction of the 4T1 breast cancer induced by GK-1.

Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease

The kidney contains many mitochondria that generate ATP to provide energy for cellular processes. Oxidative stress injury can be caused by impaired mitochondria with excessive levels of reactive oxygen species. Accumulating evidence has indicated a relationship between oxidative stress and kidney diseases, and revealed new insights into mitochondria-targeted therapeutics for renal injury. Improving mitochondrial homeostasis, increasing mitochondrial biogenesis, and balancing mitochondrial turnover has the potential to protect renal function against oxidative stress. Although there are some reviews that addressed this issue, the articles summarizing the relationship between mitochondria-targeted effects and the risk factors of renal failure are still few. In this review, we integrate recent studies on oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in kidney diseases, especially chronic kidney disease. We organized the causes and risk factors of oxidative stress in the kidneys based in their mitochondria-targeted effects. This review also listed the possible candidates for clinical therapeutics of kidney diseases by modulating mitochondrial function.

Therapeutic Effect of Curcumin on 5/6Nx Hypertriglyceridemia: Association with the Improvement of Renal Mitochondrial β-Oxidation and Lipid Metabolism in Kidney and Liver

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence is constantly increasing, and dyslipidemia in this disease is characteristic, favoring cardiovascular events. However, the mechanisms of CKD dyslipidemia are not fully understood. The use of curcumin (CUR) in CKD models such as 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6Nx) has shown multiple beneficial effects, so it has been proposed to correct dyslipidemia without side effects. This work aimed to characterize CUR's potential therapeutic effect on dyslipidemia and alterations in lipid metabolism and mitochondrial ß-oxidation in the liver and kidney in 5/6Nx. Male Wistar rats were subjected to 5/6Nx and progressed by 4 weeks; meanwhile, CUR (120 mg/kg) was administered for weeks 5 to 8. Our results showed that CUR reversed the increase in liver and kidney damage and hypertriglyceridemia induced by 5/6Nx. CUR also reversed mitochondrial membrane depolarization and β-oxidation disorders in the kidney and the increased lipid uptake and the high levels of proteins involved in fatty acid synthesis in the liver and kidney. CUR also decreased lipogenesis and increased mitochondrial biogenesis markers in the liver. Therefore, we concluded that the therapeutic effect of curcumin on 5/6Nx hypertriglyceridemia is associated with the restoration of renal mitochondrial ß-oxidation and the reduction in lipid synthesis and uptake in the kidneys and liver.