The Effect of Curcumin on the Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Mesodermal Lineage

Control and interplay of scaffold-biomolecule interactions applied to cartilage tissue engineering

Cartilage tissue engineering based on the combination of biomaterials, adult or stem cells and bioactive factors is a challenging approach for regenerative medicine with the aim of achieving the formation of a functional neotissue stable in the long term. Various 3D scaffolds have been developed to mimic the extracellular matrix environment and promote cartilage repair. In addition, bioactive factors have been extensively employed to induce and maintain the cartilage phenotype. However, the spatiotemporal control of bioactive factor release remains critical for maximizing the regenerative potential of multipotent cells, such as mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), and achieving efficient chondrogenesis and sustained tissue homeostasis, which are essential for the repair of hyaline cartilage. Despite advances, the effective delivery of bioactive factors is limited by challenges such as insufficient retention at the site of injury and the loss of therapeutic efficacy due to uncontrolled drug release. These limitations have prompted research on biomolecule-scaffold interactions to develop advanced delivery systems that provide sustained release and controlled bioavailability of biological factors, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes. This review focuses specifically on biomaterials (natural, hybrid and synthetic) and biomolecules (molecules, proteins, nucleic acids) of interest for cartilage engineering. Herein, we review in detail the approaches developed to maintain the biomolecules in scaffolds and control their release, based on their chemical nature and structure, through steric, non-covalent and/or covalent interactions, with a view to their application in cartilage repair.

Harnessing the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in neuroblastoma

Neuroblastomas are the most common solid tumors outside of the brain that originate from immature neural crest cells, accounting for about 10% of all pediatric malignancies. The treatment for neuroblastomas involves a multimodal schedule, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. All these modalities are limited by side effects that might be severe, poor prognosis, and a high risk of recurrence. In the quest for additional therapeutic approaches, phytochemicals have attracted attention owing to their reported antitumor properties, safety, and multimechanistic mode of action. Several studies have used plant-derived bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids, suggesting modulation of biomolecules and signal transduction pathways involved in neuroblastoma. We reviewed the findings of recent preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating the effects of phytochemicals on neuroblastoma, shedding light on their molecular mechanism of action and potential therapeutic applications.

Evaluation of osteoblast response to polyacrylonitrile infused nano-curcumin coated on titanium discs: Invitro study cell culture experimental study

Purpose

The study evaluated the influence of titanium discs, coated with polyacrylonitrile infused curcumin nanofibers on osteoblast activity.

Materials and methods

The titanium discs were coated with polyacrylonitrile nanofibers infused with curcumin. MG-63 cell lines were utilized for cell culture to assess osteoblast morphology upon exposure of curcumin on titanium discs. SEM comparison was made. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was measured after 2 and 7 days and the Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity of the cells was quantified.

Results

The results indicated that the coating had a notable impact on mineralization, LDH and ALP activities. Significant differences were observed between uncoated and coated samples. The SEM analysis indicated that curcumin enhanced bone growth when the Ti discs coated with curcumin are implanted in the bone.

Conclusion

Polyacrylonitrile infused nano-curcumin fibers coated on titanium discs potentially enhanced osteoblast response and mineralization.

Targeting the Akt signaling pathway: Exploiting curcumin's anticancer potential

Cancer is recognized as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In recent years, advancements in early detection and expanding treatment options have contributed to a decrease in mortality rates. However, the emergence of drug-resistant cancers necessitates the exploration of innovative and more effective drugs. The Akt kinases play a central role in various signaling pathways that regulate crucial cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and glucose metabolism. Due to frequent disruptions of the Akt signaling pathway in numerous human cancers and its broad biological implications, targeting this pathway has become a key focus in combating tumor aggressiveness and a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has been extensively studied for its potential as an anti-cancer agent. It demonstrates inhibitory effects on cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis by influencing various processes involved in tumor growth and development. These effects are achieved through negative regulation of transcription factors, growth factors, cytokines, protein kinases, and other oncogenic molecules. This review aims to explore curcumin's anticancer activity against different types of cancer mediated via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, as well as its practical applications in treatment.

Protective effects of curcumin against spinal cord injury

Background

In parallel with population aging, the prevalence of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases has been dramatically increasing over the past few decades. Neurodegenerative diseases reduce the quality of life of patients and impose a high cost on the health system. These slowly progressive diseases can cause functional, perceptual, and behavioral deficits in patients. Therefore, neurodegenerative impairments have always been an interesting subject for scientists and clinicians. One of these diseases is spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI can lead to irreversible damage and is classified into two main subtypes: traumatic and non-traumatic, each with very different pathophysiological features.

Aims

This review aims to gather relevant information about the beneficial effects of curcumin (Cur), with specific emphasis on its anti-inflammatory properties towards spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.

Materials & Methods

The review collates data from extensive in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical trials documenting the effects of CUR on SCI. It examines the modulation of pathophysiological pathways and regulation of the inflammatory cascades after CUR administration.

Results

Various pathophysiological processes involving the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways have been suggested to exacerbate damages resulting from SCI. CUR administration showed to modulate these signaling pathways which lead to attenuation of SCI complications.

Discussion

Anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly CUR, can modulate these pathophysiological pathways and regulate the inflammatory cascades. CUR, a well-known natural product with significant anti-inflammatory effects, has been extensively documented in experimental and clinical trials.

Conclusion

Curcumin's potential to alter key steps in the Nrf2, NF-kB, and TGF-β signaling pathways suggests that it may play a role in attenuating SCI complications.

The role of natural products as PCSK9 modulators: A review

A variety of mechanisms and drugs have been shown to attenuate cardiovascular disease (CVD) onset and/or progression. Recent researchers have identified a potential role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in modulating lipid metabolism and reducing plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. PCSK9 is the central protein in the metabolism of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) owing to its major function in LDL receptor (LDLR) degradation. Due to the close correlation of cardiovascular disease with lipid levels, many in vivo and in vitro investigations are currently underway studying the physiological role of PCSK9. Furthermore, many studies are actively investigating the mechanisms of various compounds that influence lipid associated-disorders and their associated cardiovascular diseases. PCSK9 inhibitors have been shown to have significant impact in the prevention of emerging cardiovascular diseases. Natural products can effectively be used as PCSK9 inhibitors to control lipid levels through various mechanisms. In this review, we evaluate the role of phytochemicals and natural products in the regulation of PCSK9, and their ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, we describe their mechanisms of action, which have not to date been delineated.

Curcumin attenuates lupus nephritis by inhibiting neutrophil migration via PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signalling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of curcumin in the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN) by inhibiting the migration of neutrophils and the underlying mechanism involved.

METHODS

Two lupus mouse models, MRL/lpr mice and R848-treated mice, were treated with 50 mg/kg curcumin by intraperitoneal injection. H&E and Masson staining were used to estimate histopathological changes in the kidney. Immunofluorescence was used to assess the deposition of immune complexes. The expression of inflammatory factors was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time reverse transcription polymerase reaction (RT-PCR), and the protein expression was detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

We revealed the remarkable potential of curcumin in improving inflammatory conditions in both MRL/lpr mice and R848-induced lupus mice. Curcumin effectively decelerates the progression of inflammation and diminishes the infiltration of neutrophils and their release of pivotal inflammatory factors, thereby reducing inflammation in renal tissues. Mechanistically, curcumin significantly inhibits the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT and p-NF-κB, which are upregulated by interleukin-8 to induce neutrophil migration and renal inflammation, thereby reducing neutrophil migration and the release of inflammatory factors.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin significantly inhibits the recruitment of neutrophils and the release of proinflammatory factors in the kidney by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signalling pathway, providing new therapeutic targets and medication strategies for the treatment of LN.

Curcumin-loaded chitosan-based hydrogels accelerating S. aureus-infected wound healing

The damaged skin for some reasons is vulnerable to invasion by bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, leading to delay of the wound healing. In order to promote the infected wound healing, curcumin was loaded with chitosan-based hydrogel was formed through phenylborate ester bonding and its properties and effects on the S. aureus-infected wound healing was tested. It was found the hydrogel showed good antioxidation on the intracellular reactive oxygen species, inhibition on the growth of S. aureus, and acceleration the infected skin healing. The ablity of hydrogel due to its regulating inflammation, promoting angiogenesis and collagen synthesis in the wound site. This research work suggested that the developed multifunctional hydrogel might be a beneficial treatment for the infected wound healing.

Effects of nano-micelles curcumin-based photodynamic therapy on expression of RUNX2 as an indicator of bone regeneration in orthodontic tooth movement

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to evaluate the impact of nano-micelles curcumin (NMCur) based photodynamic therapy (PDT) during compressive force application on human PDL-derived fibroblasts (HPDFs) in vitro for up to 6 days on the expression of RUNX2 as an indicator of bone development and remodeling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPDFs viability during 2 g/cm2 compressive force application was investigated using membrane-impermeable DNA-binding stain propidium iodide (PI) in flow cytometry. Gene and protein expressions of RUNX2 were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and flow cytometry, respectively, following NMCur-PDT at different concentrations of NMCur (25, 50, and 75 µM plus irradiation of 180 mW/cm2 diode laser at the wavelength of 450 ± 10 nm for 5 min) during the static compressive force of 2 g/cm2 on HPDFs via weight approach-based in-vitro loading model up to 6 days. One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests at a p-value equal to/or less than 0.05 were used to analyze the obtained data.

RESULTS

After 6 days of application of compressive force, 99.21 ± 6.12% of HPDFs were PI negative and therefore considered alive, while only 0.89 ± 0.06% of the population were PI positive and considered dead. In comparison with controls (loaded HPDFs), expression of RUNX2 gene was dose-dependent and the highest expression (14.38-fold; P < 0.01) was observed at a concentration of 75 µM NMCur following 5 min of diode laser irradiation (i.e., 75 µM NMCur-PDT) during compressive force application on day 5. The greatest and lowest upregulations of RUNX2 protein were observed in 75 µM NMCur-PDT during compressive force application on HPDFs, on day 5 (3.19-fold; P < 0.01) and day 6 (2.09-fold; P < 0.05), respectively.

CONCLUSION

NMCur-PDT during weight approach-based in-vitro loading model can promote orthodontic tooth movement by upregulating RUNX2 signaling pathway in HPDFs.

Protective effects of curcumin against osteoporosis and its molecular mechanisms: a recent review in preclinical trials

Osteoporosis (OP) is one of the most common metabolic skeletal disorders and is commonly seen in the elderly population and postmenopausal women. It is mainly associated with progressive loss of bone mineral density, persistent deterioration of bone microarchitecture, and increased fracture risk. To date, drug therapy is the primary method used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. However, long-term drug therapy inevitably leads to drug resistance and specific side effects. Therefore, researchers are constantly searching for new monomer compounds from natural plants. As a candidate for the treatment of osteoporosis, curcumin (CUR) is a natural phenolic compound with various pharmacological and biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory. This compound has gained research attention for maintaining bone health in various osteoporosis models. We reviewed preclinical and clinical studies of curcumin in preventing and alleviating osteoporosis. These results suggest that if subjected to rigorous pharmacological and clinical trials, naturally-derived curcumin could be used as a complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of osteoporosis by targeting osteoporosis-related mechanistic pathways. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications of curcumin in the prevention and mitigation of osteoporosis and provides reference for further research and development of curcumin.

Role of curcumin and its nanoformulations in the treatment of neurological diseases through the effects on stem cells

Curcumin from turmeric is a natural phenolic compound with a promising potential to regulate fundamental processes involved in neurological diseases, including inflammation, oxidative stress, protein aggregation, and apoptosis at the molecular level. In this regard, employing nanoformulation can improve curcumin efficiency by reducing its limitations, such as low bioavailability. Besides curcumin, growing data suggest that stem cells are a noteworthy candidate for neurodegenerative disorders therapy due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and neuronal-differentiation properties, which result in neuroprotection. Curcumin and stem cells have similar neurogenic features and can be co-administered in a cell-drug delivery system to achieve better combination therapeutic outcomes for neurological diseases. Based on the evidence, curcumin can induce the neuroprotective activity of stem cells by modulating their related signalling pathways. The present review is about the role of curcumin and its nanoformulations in the improvement of neurological diseases alone and through the effect on different categories of stem cells by discussing the underlying mechanisms to provide a roadmap for future investigations.

The effect of curcumin-piperine on cardiometabolic, inflammatory and oxidative stress factors and macular vascular density in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy: Study protocol for a randomized, double-blind controlled trial

Objective

Curcumin is a safe phytochemical with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and lipid-lowering effects. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of curcumin-piperine in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Materials and Methods

In this double-blind randomized trial, 60 diabetic retinopathy patients after meeting the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to two groups of curcumin-piperine supplementation (1000 mg per day for 12 weeks) or receiving placebo. The density of small blood vessels in the retina by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, renal indices (blood urea nitrogen and creatinine), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, body mass index, waist circumference, and weight will be measured.

Conclusion

If the beneficial effects of curcumin on diabetic retinopathy are observed, this safe, this natural and inexpensive herbal supplement can be considered a therapeutic solution in these patients.

Overview on postmenopausal osteoporosis and periodontitis: The therapeutic potential of phytoestrogens against alveolar bone loss

Osteoporosis and periodontitis are two major chronic diseases of postmenopausal women. The association between these two diseases are evident through systemic bone loss and alveolar bone loss. Both postmenopausal osteoporosis and periodontitis impose a considerable personal and socioeconomic burden. Biphosphonate and hormone replacement therapy are effective in preventing bone loss in postmenopausal osteoporosis and periodontitis, but they are coupled with severe adverse effects. Phytoestrogens are plant-based estrogen-like compounds, which have been used for the treatment of menopause-related symptoms. In the last decades, numerous preclinical and clinical studies have been carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effects of phytoestrogens including bone health. The aim of this article is to give an overview of the bidirectional interrelationship between postmenopausal osteoporosis and periodontitis, summarize the skeletal effects of phytoestrogens and report the most studied phytoestrogens with promising alveolar bone protective effect in postmenopausal osteoporosis model, with and without experimental periodontitis. To date, there are limited studies on the effects of phytoestrogens on alveolar bone in postmenopausal osteoporosis. Phytoestrogens may have exerted their bone protective effect by inhibiting bone resorption and enhancing bone formation. With the reported findings on the protective effects of phytoestrogens on bone, well-designed trials are needed to better investigate their therapeutic effects. The compilation of outcomes presented in this review may provide an overview of the recent research findings in this field and direct further in vivo and clinical studies in the future.

A dual synergistic effect of titanium and curcumin co-embedded on extracellular matrix hydrogels of decellularized bone: Potential application in osteoblastic differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

This research aims to design and fabricate a novel hydrogel-based composite as a functional biomimetic and biocompatible scaffold for amended osteoblastic differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs). The extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogel is an ideal scaffold in tissue engineering in terms of its structure mimics natural tissue. In this study, the fresh bovine femur was demineralized and decellularized; next, ECM hydrogel was obtained by digesting these matrices. Then, TiO₂ and curcumin-loaded hydrogel (Hy/Ti/Cur) was fabricated besides TiO₂-loaded hydrogel (Hy/Ti) and curcumin-loaded hydrogel (Hy/Cur). Comparing the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the pure network hydrogel and the rough morphology of Hy/Ti/Cur revealed that curcumin and titanium dioxide were successfully loaded into the hydrogel. In addition, FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) validated these findings. The findings of the hydrogels' swelling test indicated the favourable impact of curcumin and titanium dioxide in hydrogels, which enhances water absorption capacity. Our results showed that the hydrogels were cytocompatible, and the cell viability on the hydrogels was elevated compared to the control. The synergistic effect of TiO₂ and Cur co-embedded on ECM hydrogel (Hy/Ti/Cur) stimulates bone differentiation markers, such as Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX-2) and osteocalcin (OCN) in ADMSCs cultured in normal and osteogenic medium. Moreover, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium deposition of ADMSCs cultured on engineered hydrogels were increased. These experiments showed that newly fabricated hydrogel has the potential to induce osteogenesis, which is recommended as an attractive scaffold in bone tissue engineering.

Equine Muscle Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Loaded with Water-Soluble Curcumin: Modulation of Neutrophil Activation and Enhanced Protection against Intracellular Oxidative Attack

We investigated the antioxidant potential of equine mesenchymal stem cells derived from muscle microbiopsies (mdMSCs), loaded by a water-soluble curcumin lysinate incorporated into hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (NDS27). The cell loading was rapid and dependent on NDS27 dosage (14, 7, 3.5 and 1 µM). The immunomodulatory capacity of loaded mdMSCs was evaluated by ROS production, on active and total myeloperoxidase (MPO) degranulation and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation after neutrophil stimulation. The intracellular protection of loaded cells was tested by an oxidative stress induced by cumene hydroperoxide. Results showed that 10 min of mdMSC loading with NDS27 did not affect their viability while reducing their metabolism. NDS27 loaded cells in presence of 14, 7 µM NDS27 inhibited more intensively the ROS production, the activity of the MPO released and bound to the NET after neutrophil stimulation. Furthermore, loaded cells powerfully inhibited intracellular ROS production induced by cumene as compared to control cells or cyclodextrin-loaded cells. Our results showed that the loading of mdMSCs with NDS27 significantly improved their antioxidant potential against the oxidative burst of neutrophil and protected them against intracellular ROS production. The improved antioxidant protective capacity of loaded mdMSCs could be applied to target inflammatory foci involving neutrophils.

Evaluation of Curcumin-Piperine Supplementation in COVID-19 Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is a traditional remedy for diseases associated with hyper-inflammatory responses and immune system impairment. Piperine, a bioactive compound in black pepper, has the potential to enhance curcumin bioavailability. 0This study aims to examine the effect of the curcumin-piperine co-supplementation in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this parallel randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 40 patients with COVID-19 admitted to ICU were randomized to receive three capsules of curcumin (500 mg)-piperine (5 mg) or placebo for 7 days.

RESULTS

After 1 week of the intervention, serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p = 0.02) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.03) were significantly decreased, and hemoglobin was increased (p = 0.03) in the curcumin-piperine compared to the placebo group. However, compared with the placebo, curcumin-piperine had no significant effects on the other biochemical, hematological, and arterial blood gas and 28-day mortality rate was three patients in each group (p = 0.99).

CONCLUSION

The study results showed that short-term curcumin-piperine supplementation significantly decreased CRP, AST, and increased hemoglobin in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Based on these promising findings, curcumin appears to be a complementary treatment option for COVID-19 patients, although some parameters were not affected by the intervention.

Curcumin Nanofiber PCL/PLGA/Collagen Enhanced the Therapeutic Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cells against Liver Fibrosis in Animal Model and Prevented its Recurrence

The aim of this study is preconditioning of hBM-MSCs using curcumin modified nanomembrane to optimize therapy of hepatic fibrosis and preventing its recurrence. Methods: The nanomembrane was prepared by electrospinning technique and characterized using conventional method (cur^- nanoscaffold and cur⁺ nanoscaffold). Kinetic release of curcumin was also measured by spectrophotometry. MSCs were isolated from human bone marrow (hBM-MSCs) and cultured on the both nanoscaffolds. We evaluated the in-vivo effect of hBM-MSCs from both nanoscaffold cultures (cur^- nanoscaffold/hMSCs and cur⁺ nanoscaffold/MSCs) on liver fibrosis from its effective and preventive points and we assessed the mechanisms of these effects as in vitro studies as cell proliferation, its effect on hepatogenic differentiation, its effect on paracrine release of hBM-MSCs and in-vivo studying the effect on cell migration, survival, engraftment, fate of transplanted cells, modifying the fibrogenic and inflammatory microenvironments. Results: The results of animal model showed that single injection of preconditioning of hBM-MSCs using curcumin modified nanoscaffold ameliorate the fibrosis and prevent its recurrence until 24 weeks of therapy in contrast to improvement but not ameliorative effect of hBM-MSCs/ curcumin negative nanoscaffold which recurred progressively after 12 weeks of therapy. These effects of curcumin modified nanoscaffold were results from its highly efficacy on cell proliferation, in-vitro and in-vivo hepatogenic differentiation, increasing cell migration, engraftment and survival in the inflammatory microenvironment which was markedly improved by down regulation of inflammatory mediators and upregulation of anti-oxidant factors. Conclusion: hBM-MSCs cultured on the prepared curcumin nanomembrane in this study is promising in regenerative therapy for ameliorating the hepatic fibrosis and to prevent its recurrence.

Antiviral Mechanisms of Curcumin and Its Derivatives in Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19: A Review

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has now plagued the world for almost 3 years. Although vaccines are now available, the severity of the pandemic and the current dearth of approved effective medications have prompted the need for novel treatment approaches. Curcumin, as a food nutraceutical with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, is now under consideration for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Curcumin has been demonstrated to retard the entrance of SARS-CoV-2 into cells, interfere with its proliferation inside cells, and curb the hyperinflammatory state caused by the virus by modulating immune system regulators, minimizing the cytokine storm effect, and modulating the renin-angiotensin system. This chapter discusses the role of curcumin and its derivatives in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection, considering the molecular mechanisms involved. It will also focus on the molecular and cellular profiling techniques as essential tools in this research, as these can be used in the identification and development of new biomarkers, drug targets, and therapeutic approaches for improved patient care.

Protective effects of curcumin on ischemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a term used to describe phenomena connected to the dysfunction of various tissue damage due to reperfusion after ischemic injury. While I/R may result in systemic inflammatory response syndrome or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, there is still a long way to improve therapeutic outcomes. A number of cellular metabolic and ultrastructural alterations occur by prolonged ischemia. Ischemia increases the expression of proinflammatory gene products and bioactive substances within the endothelium, such as cytokines, leukocytes, and adhesion molecules, even as suppressing the expression of other "protective" gene products and substances, such as thrombomodulin and constitutive nitric oxide synthase (e.g., prostacyclin, nitric oxide [NO]). Curcumin is the primary phenolic pigment derived from turmeric, the powdered rhizome of Curcuma longa. Numerous studies have shown that curcumin has strong antiinflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. It also prevents lipid peroxidation and scavenges free radicals like superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, NO, and hydroxyl. In our study, we highlight the mechanisms of protective effects of curcumin against I/R injury in various organs.

The beneficial therapeutic effects of plant-derived natural products for the treatment of sarcopenia

Sarcopenia is an age-related muscle disorder typically associated with a poor quality of life. Its definition has evolved over time, and several underlying causes of sarcopenia in the elderly have been proposed. However, the exact mechanisms involved in sarcopenia, as well as effective treatments for this condition, are not fully understood. The purpose of this article was to conduct a comprehensive review of previous evidence regarding the definition, diagnosis, risk factors, and efficacy of plant-derived natural products for sarcopenia. The methodological approach for the current narrative review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as Google Scholar (up to March 2021) in order to satisfy our objectives. The substantial beneficial effects along with the safety of some plant-derived natural products including curcumin, resveratrol, catechin, soy protein, and ginseng on sarcopenia are reported in this review. Based on clinical studies, nutraceuticals and functional foods may have beneficial effects on physical performance, including handgrip and knee-extension strength, weight-lifting capacity, time or distance travelled before feeling fatigued, mitochondrial function, muscle fatigue, mean muscle fibre area, and total number of myonuclei. In preclinical studies, supplementation with herbs and natural bioactive compounds resulted in beneficial effects including increased plantaris mass, skeletal muscle mass and strength production, increased expression of anabolic factors myogenin, Myf5 and MyoD, enhanced mitochondrial capacity, and inhibition of muscle atrophy and sarcopenia. We found that several risk factors such as nutritional status, physical inactivity, inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine system dysfunction, insulin resistance, history of chronic disease, mental health, and genetic factors are linked or associated with sarcopenia. The substantial beneficial effects of some nutraceuticals and functional foods on sarcopenia, including curcumin, resveratrol, catechin, soy protein, and ginseng, without any significant side effects, are reported in this review. Plant-derived natural products might have a beneficial effect on various components of sarcopenia. Nevertheless, due to limited human trials, the clinical benefits of plant-derived natural products remain inconclusive. It is suggested that comprehensive longitudinal clinical studies to better understand risk factors over time, as well as identifying a treatment strategy for sarcopenia that is based on its pathophysiology, be undertaken in future investigations.

Phytochemicals: A potential therapeutic intervention for the prevention and treatment of cachexia

Cachexia, a multifactorial and often irreversible wasting syndrome, is often associated with the final phase of several chronic disorders. Although cachexia is characterized by skeletal muscle wasting and adipose tissue loss, it is a syndrome affecting different organs, which ultimately results in systemic complications and impaired quality of life. The pathogenesis and underlying molecular mechanisms of cachexia are not fully understood, and currently there are no effective standard treatments or approved drug therapies to completely reverse cachexia. Moreover, adequate nutritional interventions alone cannot significantly improve cachexia. Other approaches to ameliorate cachexia are urgently needed, and thus, the role of medicinal plants has received considerable importance in this respect due to their beneficial health properties. Increasing evidence indicates great potential of medicinal plants and their phytochemicals as an alternative and promising treatment strategy to reduce the symptoms of many diseases including cachexia. This article reviews the current status of cachexia, the molecular mechanisms of primary events driving cachexia, and state-of-the-art knowledge that reports the preventive and therapeutic activities of multiple families of phytochemical compounds and their pharmacological mode of action, which may hold promise as an alternative treatment modality for the management of cachexia. Based on our review of various in vitro and in vivo models of cachexia, we would conclude that phytochemicals may have therapeutic potential to attenuate cachexia, although clinical trials are required to unequivocally confirm this premise.

Curcumin: A dietary phytochemical for boosting exercise performance and recovery

Curcumin, as the main natural compound in the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), is a yellowish polyphenol that has been used traditionally in Asian countries as a medicinal herb for various types of disease and pathological conditions caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. In the present review, we conducted a comprehensive literature search for evidence that shows the effect of curcumin on factors influencing exercise performance, including muscle damage, muscle soreness, inflammation, and oxidative stress. During exercise, reactive oxygen species and inflammation are increased. Thus, if there is no balance between endogenous and exogenous antioxidants and increases in oxidative stress and inflammation, which is important for maintaining redox homeostasis in skeletal muscle, it can lead to muscle soreness and muscle damage and ultimately result in reduced exercise performance. Due to the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, it can increase exercise performance and decrease exercise-induced muscle soreness and muscle damage. It appears that curcumin supplementation can have positive effects on exercise performance and recovery, muscle damage and pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress. However, there is still a need to precisely evaluate factors to more accurately assess/quantify the beneficial therapeutic effects of curcumin with regard to enhancing exercise performance and recovery.

Recent advances in glioblastoma multiforme therapy: A focus on autophagy regulation

Despite conventional treatment options including chemoradiation, patients with the most aggressive primary brain tumor, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), experience an average survival time of less than 15 months. Regarding the malignant nature of GBM, extensive research and discovery of novel treatments are urgently required to improve the patients' prognosis. Autophagy, a crucial physiological pathway for the degradation and recycling of cell components, is one of the exciting targets of GBM studies. Interventions aimed at autophagy activation or inhibition have been explored as potential GBM therapeutics. This review, which delves into therapeutic techniques to block or activate autophagy in preclinical and clinical research, aims to expand our understanding of available therapies battling GBM.

Effect of Curcumin on Attenuation of Liver Cirrhosis via Genes/Proteins and Pathways: A System Pharmacology Study

Background: Liver cirrhosis is a life-threatening seqsuel of many chronic liver disorders of varying etiologies. In this study, we investigated protein targets of curcumin in liver cirrhosis based on a bioinformatics approach. Methods: Gene/protein associations with curcumin and liver cirrhosis were probed in drug−gene and gene−diseases databases including STITCH/DGIdb/DisGeNET/OMIM/DISEASES/CTD/Pharos and SwissTargetPrediction. Critical clustering groups (MCODE), hub candidates and critical hub genes in liver cirrhosis were identified, and connections between curcumin and liver cirrhosis-related genes were analyzed via Venn diagram. Interaction of hub genes with curcumin by molecular docking using PyRx-virtual screening tools was performed. Results: MCODE analysis indicated three MCODEs; the cluster (MCODE 1) comprised 79 nodes and 881 edges (score: 22.59). Curcumin database interactions recognized 318 protein targets. Liver cirrhosis genes and curcumin protein targets analysis demonstrated 96 shared proteins, suggesting that curcumin may influence 20 candidate and 13 hub genes, covering 81% of liver cirrhosis critical genes and proteins. Thirteen shared proteins affected oxidative stress regulation, RNA, telomerase activity, cell proliferation, and cell death. Molecular docking analysis showed the affinity of curcumin binding hub genes (Binding affinity: ΔG < −4.9 kcal/mol). Conclusions: Curcumin impacted on several critical liver cirrhosis genes mainly involved in extracellular matrix communication, focal adhesion, and the response to oxidative stress.

Therapeutic potency of curcumin for allergic diseases: A focus on immunomodulatory actions

In light of increasing research evidence on the molecular mechanisms of allergic diseases, the crucial roles of innate and acquired immunity in the disease's pathogenesis have been well highlighted. In this respect, much attention has been paid to the modulation of unregulated and unabated inflammatory responses aiming to suppress pathologic immune responses in treating allergic diseases. One of the most important natural compounds with a high potency of immune modulation is curcumin, an active polyphenol compound derived from turmeric, Curcuma longa L. Curcumin's immunomodulatory action mainly arises from its interactions with an extensive collection of immune cells such as mast cells, eosinophils, epithelial cells, basophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. Up to now, there has been no detailed investigation of curcumin's immunomodulatory actions in allergic diseases. So, the present review study aims to prepare an overview of the immunomodulatory effects of curcumin on the pathologic innate immune responses and dysregulated functions of T helper (T_H) subtypes, including T_H1, T_H2, T_H17, and regulator T cells (Tregs) by gathering evidence from several studies of In-vitro and In-vivo. As the second aim of the present review, we also discuss some novel strategies to overcome the limitation of curcumin in clinical use. Finally, this review also assesses the therapeutic potential of curcumin regarding its immunomodulatory actions in allergic diseases.

Polyphenols and atherosclerosis: A critical review of clinical effects on LDL oxidation

Atherosclerosis is a major etiology of cardiovascular disease that causes considerable mortality. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is a fundamental attributor to atherosclerosis. Therefore, there seems to be an essential place for antioxidant therapy besides the current treatment protocols for coronary heart disease. Polyphenols are a class of compounds with substantial antioxidant properties that have shown the ability to reduce LDL oxidation in preclinical studies. However, clinical evidence has not been as conclusive although offering many promising signs. This review aims to examine the trials that have evaluated how dietary intake of polyphenols in different forms might influence the oxidation of LDL. Lowering the circulating cholesterol, incorporation into LDL particles, and enhancing systemic antioxidant activity are among the main mechanisms of action for polyphenols for lowering oxLDL. On the other hand, the population under study significantly affects the impact on oxLDL, as the type of the supplement and phenolic content. To conclude, although the polyphenols might decrease inflammation and enhance endothelial function via lowering oxLDL, there are still many gaps in our knowledge that need to be filled with further high-quality studies.

Therapeutic Role of Curcumin in Diabetes: An Analysis Based on Bioinformatic Findings

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is an increasingly prevalent global disease caused by the impairment in insulin production or insulin function. Diabetes in the long term causes both microvascular and macrovascular complications that may result in retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Considerable effort has been expended looking at the numerous genes and pathways to explain the mechanisms leading to diabetes-related complications. Curcumin is a traditional medicine with several properties such as being antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial, which may have utility for treating diabetes complications. This study, based on the system biology approach, aimed to investigate the effect of curcumin on critical genes and pathways related to diabetes.

METHODS

We first searched interactions of curcumin in three different databases, including STITCH, TTD, and DGIdb. Subsequently, we investigated the critical curated protein targets for diabetes on the OMIM and DisGeNET databases. To find important clustering groups (MCODE) and critical hub genes in the network of diseases, we created a PPI network for all proteins obtained for diabetes with the aid of a string database and Cytoscape software. Next, we investigated the possible interactions of curcumin on diabetes-related genes using Venn diagrams. Furthermore, the impact of curcumin on the top scores of modular clusters was analysed. Finally, we conducted biological process and pathway enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG based on the enrichR web server.

RESULTS

We acquired 417 genes associated with diabetes, and their constructed PPI network contained 298 nodes and 1651 edges. Next, the analysis of centralities in the PPI network indicated 15 genes with the highest centralities. Additionally, MCODE analysis identified three modular clusters, which highest score cluster (MCODE 1) comprises 19 nodes and 92 edges with 10.22 scores. Screening curcumin interactions in the databases identified 158 protein targets. A Venn diagram of genes related to diabetes and the protein targets of curcumin showed 35 shared proteins, which observed that curcumin could strongly interact with ten of the hub genes. Moreover, we demonstrated that curcumin has the highest interaction with MCODE1 among all MCODs. Several significant biological pathways in KEGG enrichment associated with 35 shared included the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, TNF signaling, and JAK-STAT signaling pathway. The biological processes of GO analysis were involved with the cellular response to cytokine stimulus, the cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, positive regulation of intracellular signal transduction and cytokine production in the inflammatory response.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin targeted several important genes involved in diabetes, supporting the previous research suggesting that it may have utility as a therapeutic agent in diabetes.

Recent advances in nanogold as a promising nanocarrier for curcumin delivery

Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has promising therapeutic benefits. However, curcumin suffers from low aqueous solubility and poor bioavailability following oral administration, which are severe constraints to its full therapeutic potential. An exciting approach to resolving such challenges has been to incorporate curcumin into gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to improve its unfavorable physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties. Growing evidence shows that AuNPs increase cytotoxicity and apoptotic effect of curcumin on cancer cells. Moreover, AuNPs has the potential to enhance curcumin's cellular uptake and antioxidant properties. In addition, numerous benefits have been suggested for exploiting the curcumin's gold (Au) NPs as simple preparation and functionalization. Therefore, we can take advantage of the nanogold combination with curcumin in several therapeutic methods like photothermal therapy and theranostic nanocarrier. Here, we focus on the therapeutic properties of Au/curcumin NPs and the way to improve biocompatibility and bioavailability for curcumin encapsulation, intending to enhance their anticancer and antioxidant capacities. The present review also discusses the utilization and impact of Au NPs as a drug/gene delivery system/platform and various methods for the synthesis of Au/curcumin NPs.

Phytochemicals as Modulators of Paraoxonase-1 in Health and Diseases

Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), atherosclerosis, chronic liver disease, and neurodegenerative diseases are major causes of mortality. These diseases have gained much attention due to their complications, and therefore novel approaches with fewer side effects are an important research topic. Free radicals and oxidative stress are involved in the molecular mechanisms of several diseases. Antioxidants can scavenge free radicals and mitigate their adverse effects. One of the most important antioxidant enzymes are paraoxonases (PONs). These enzymes perform a wide range of physiological activities ranging from drug metabolism to detoxification of neuroleptics. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is produced in the liver and then transferred to the bloodstream. It has been demonstrated that PON1 could have beneficial effects in numerous diseases such as atherosclerosis, CVD, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative diseases by modulating relevant signalling pathways involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. These pathways include peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and protein kinase B/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (AKT/NF-κB)-dependent signalling pathways. Increasing PON1 could potentially have protective effects and reduce the incidence of various diseases by modulating these signalling pathways. Several studies have reported that dietary factors are able to modulate PON1 expression and activity. This review aimed at summarizing the state of the art on the effects of dietary phytochemicals on PON1 enzyme activity and the relevant signalling pathways in different diseases.

Effects of curcumin on low-density lipoprotein oxidation: From experimental studies to clinical practice

Atherosclerosis is the most frequent cause of death globally. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) has an essential role in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and foamy macrophages. Ox-LDL increases the uptake of cholesterol by macrophages and is the major cause of blood flow disruption. Ox-LDL is produced during oxidative stress and treatment with antioxidants could inhibit the production and function of ox-LDL. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and has a strong track record in the treatment of numerous diseases. Recent studies indicate that Curcumin exerts a lipid-lowering effect, and can modulate the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. The current review focuses upon the role of Curcumin in oxidation of LDL and foam cell formation in atherosclerotic lesions.

Antioxidants Attenuate Heat Shock Induced Premature Senescence of Bovine Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have many roles that are important for the body's proper functioning. When the MSC pool is damaged, it is often correlated with impaired development or health of the organism. MSC are known for their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and trophic characteristics that play an important role in the physiological homeostasis of many tissues. Heat shock impairs MSC capacity by inducing the generation of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction, which, in turn, send the cells into a state of premature senescence. Here, we pre-exposed MSC to melatonin, resveratrol, or curcumin, which are natural antioxidative compounds, and tested the protective effects of these substances from oxidative stress and aging. Our data showed that pre-exposure of MSC to antioxidants decreased reactive oxygen species while mitochondrial damage remained high. Additionally, although the proliferation of the cells was slow, antioxidants protected the cells from premature senescence, and subsequent cytokine release was prevented. We conclude that while elevated temperatures directly cause mitochondrial damage, senescence is induced by elevated ROS levels. We suggest that heat shock alters cell and tissue homeostasis by several independent mechanisms; however, reducing tissue senescence will reduce damage and provide a pathway to overcome physiological challenges in animals.

Metabolic Reconfiguration Activates Stemness and Immunomodulation of PDLSCs

Periodontal ligament derived stem cells (PDLSC) are adult multipotent mesenchymal-like stem cells (MSCs) that can induce a promising immunomodulation to interact with immune cells for disease treatment. Metabolic reconfiguration has been shown to be involved in the immunomodulatory activity of MSCs. However, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown, and it remains a challenging to establish a therapeutic avenue to enhance immunomodulation of endogenous stem cells for disease management. In the present study, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis explores that curcumin significantly promotes PDLSC function through activation of MSC-related markers and metabolic pathways. In vitro stem cell characterization further confirms that self-renewal and multipotent differentiation capabilities are largely elevated in curcumin treated PDLSCs. Mechanistically, RNA-seq reveals that curcumin activates ERK and mTOR cascades through upregulating growth factor pathways for metabolic reconfiguration toward glycolysis. Interestingly, PDLSCs immunomodulation is significantly increased after curcumin treatment through activation of prostaglandin E2-Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (PGE2-IDO) signaling, whereas inhibition of glycolysis activity by 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) largely blocked immunomodulatory capacity of PDLSCs. Taken together, this study provides a novel pharmacological approach to activate endogenous stem cells through metabolic reprogramming for immunomodulation and tissue regeneration.

Investigation of the Effect of Curcumin on Protein Targets in NAFLD Using Bioinformatic Analysis

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent metabolic disorder. Defects in function/expression of genes/proteins are critical in initiation/progression of NAFLD. Natural products may modulate these genes/proteins. Curcumin improves steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis progression. Here, bioinformatic tools, gene−drug and gene-disease databases were utilized to explore targets, interactions, and pathways through which curcumin could impact NAFLD. METHODS: Significant curcumin−protein interaction was identified (high-confidence:0.7) in the STITCH database. Identified proteins were investigated to determine association with NAFLD. gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were analyzed for significantly involved targets (p < 0.01). Specificity of obtained targets with NAFLD was estimated and investigated in Tissue/Cells−gene associations (PanglaoDB Augmented 2021, Mouse Gene Atlas) and Disease−gene association-based EnrichR algorithms (Jensen DISEASES, DisGeNET). RESULTS: Two collections were constructed: 227 protein−curcumin interactions and 95 NAFLD-associated genes. By Venn diagram, 14 significant targets were identified, and their biological pathways evaluated. Based on gene ontology, most targets involved stress and lipid metabolism. KEGG revealed chemical carcinogenesis, the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications and NAFLD as the most common significant pathways. Specificity to diseases database (EnrichR algorithm) revealed specificity for steatosis/steatohepatitis. CONCLUSION: Curcumin may improve, or inhibit, progression of NAFLD through activation/inhibition of NAFLD-related genes.

Immunomodulatory effects of curcumin in systemic autoimmune diseases

Systemic autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus represent various autoimmune conditions identified by immune system dysregulation. The activation of immune cells, auto-antigen outbreak, inflammation, and multi-organ impairment is observed in these disorders. The immune system is an essential complex network of cells and chemical mediators which defends the organism's integrity against foreign microorganisms, and its precise operation and stability are compulsory to avoid a wide range of medical complications. Curcumin is a phenolic ingredient extracted from turmeric and belongs to the Zingiberaceae, or ginger family. Curcumin has multiple functions, such as inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, tumor cell proliferation, cell death, and infection. Nevertheless, the immunomodulatory influence of curcumin on immunological reactions/processes remains mostly unknown. In the present narrative review, we sought to provide current information concerning the preclinical and clinical uses of curcumin in systemic autoimmune diseases.

Efficacy of Oregano Essential Oil Extract in the Inhibition of Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Osteoclastogenesis Using RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophage Cell Line—An In-Vitro Study

Gram-negative, anaerobic bacterias are predominate in periapical infections. The bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) initiates the process of inflammation and periapical bone resorption. Usage of various medicaments retards or inactivates the bacterial endotoxin (LPS). However, the results are not highly effective. In recent years, owing to antimicrobial resistance, the shift from conventional agents to herbal agents has been increased tremendously in research. Keeping this in mind, the present study was formulated to evaluate the efficacy of oregano essential oil in inhibiting bacterial LPS- induced osteoclastogenesis. Four different concentrations (0 ng/mL, 25 ng/mL, 50 ng/mL, and 100 ng/mL) of oregano essential oil extract were added into 96-well culture plate. Under light microscope, quantification of osteoclast cells was performed. One-way ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey test was carried out on SPSS v21. A significant reduction (p < 0.001) in the osteoclast was observed in the experimental groups compared to no oregano essential oil extract (control). A dose-dependent significant reduction (p < 0.001) in osteoclast formation was observed among the experimental groups, with lesser osteoclast seen in group IV with 100 ng/mL of oregano essential oil extract. Thus, it can be concluded that oregano essential oil extract can be utilized as a therapeutic agent that can target bacterial LPS-induced osteoclastogenesis. However, randomized controlled studies should be conducted to assess the potential use of this extract in the periapical bone resorption of endodontic origin.

Biomaterials and stem cells as drug/gene-delivery vehicles for Parkinson's treatment: an update

By introducing biomaterials and stem cells into Parkinson's disease (PD), therapeutic approaches have led to promising results due to facilitating brain targeting and blood-brain barrier permeation of the drugs and genes. Here, after reviewing the most recent drug- and gene-delivery vehicles including liposomes, exosomes, natural/synthetic polymeric particles/fibers, metallic/ceramic nanoparticles and microbubbles, used for Parkinson's disease treatment, the effect of stem cells as a reservoir of neurotrophic factors and exosomes is provided.

Evaluation of the osteogenic potential of crocin-incorporated collagen scaffold on the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of crocin (CRO)-loaded collagen (COL) scaffold on the osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs).

SIGNIFICANCE

Different studies have been conducted to develop an efficient strategy to accelerate and improve the recovery process of bone defects. It was shown that CRO, extracted from saffron, could induce osteogenic differentiation of rat BM-MSCs. Scaffolds can also provide a three-dimensional environment for migration, adhesion, growth, and proliferation of MSCs.

METHODS

Collagen scaffolds were fabricated through freeze-drying followed by cross-linking by dehydrothermal method. Then, CRO was incorporated into the scaffolds. Physicochemical characterization of the scaffolds was evaluated. Rat BM-MSCs were seeded on CRO-loaded COL scaffolds and cultured for 14 days. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated using alizarin red (ALZ) staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay and compared to the positive control group.

RESULTS

The average pore size of the COL scaffolds was about 97 ± 6.7 µm. Formation of amide cross-links was confirmed by FTIR. The scaffolds were capable of uptaking water up to 50 times more than their initial dry weight and releasing above 90% of their uploaded CRO during 24 h. Collagen scaffolds containing CRO (25 and 50 μM) increased ALZ intensity (3.16 ± 0.3 and 7.32 ± 0.3 folds, respectively) and ALP activity (13.7 ± 1.1 and 12.2 ± 9.4 folds, respectively) in comparison with the positive control group.

CONCLUSION

Crocin-loaded COL scaffold could effectively enhance calcium deposition and ALP activity in BM-MSCs and therefore proposed as a good candidate to accelerate the healing process of vital bone defects.

Curcumin Alleviates the Senescence of Canine Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells during In Vitro Expansion by Activating the Autophagy Pathway

Senescence in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) not only hinders the application of MSCs in regenerative medicine but is also closely correlated with biological aging and the development of degenerative diseases. In this study, we investigated the anti-aging effects of curcumin (Cur) on canine bone marrow-derived MSCs (cBMSCs), and further elucidated the potential mechanism of action based on the modulation of autophagy. cBMSCs were expanded in vitro with standard procedures to construct a cell model of premature senescence. Our evidence indicates that compared with the third passage of cBMSCs, many typical senescence-associated phenotypes were observed in the sixth passage of cBMSCs. Cur treatment can improve cBMSC survival and retard cBMSC senescence according to observations that Cur (1 μM) treatment can improve the colony-forming unit-fibroblasts (CFU-Fs) efficiency and upregulated the mRNA expression of pluripotent transcription factors (SOX-2 and Nanog), as well as inhibiting the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activities and mRNA expression of the senescence-related markers (p16 and p21) and pro-inflammatory molecules (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)). Furthermore, Cur (0.1 μM~10 μM) was observed to increase autophagic activity, as identified by upregulation of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), unc51-like autophagy-activating kinase-1 (ULK1), autophagy-related gene (Atg) 7 and Atg12, and the generation of type II of light chain 3 (LC3-II), thereby increasing autophagic vacuoles and acidic vesicular organelles, as well as causing a significant decrease in the p62 protein level. Moreover, the autophagy activator rapamycin (RAP) and Cur were found to partially ameliorate the senescent features of cBMSCs, while the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was shown to aggravate cBMSCs senescence and Cur treatment was able to restore the suppressed autophagy and counteract 3-MA-induced cBMSC senescence. Hence, our study highlights the important role of Cur-induced autophagy and its effects for ameliorating cBMSC senescence and provides new insight for delaying senescence and improving the therapeutic potential of MSCs.

Effect of Curcumin on Alterations of Alveolar Bone Remodeling and Expression of Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-κ B Ligand in Rat Tooth During Tooth Movement

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Curcumin on Alterations of Alveolar Bone Remodeling and Expression of RANKL in Rat Tooth during Tooth Movement. Methods: 64 SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, Model, Adrb2, Cur and Cur + Pro groups. The rat orthodontic teeth movement models were established.The rats were injected corresponding reagents according to weight and were sacrificed on day 0, 7, 14 and 21. The movement distance of first molar of rats was measured by Vernier caliper.The numbers of osteoclasts were observed through TRAP staining. The change of micro-structure of alveolar bone was evaluated by Micro-CT. Results: The trends of the distance of teeth movement and numbers of osteoclast were the same: Cur group β Adrb2 group > Model groups Cur+Pro group (P < 0.05). Micro-CT scan showed that curcumin could reduce the bone volume fraction (BV/TV), bone trabecular density (MTPD), and increase the trabecular resolution (TB. SP). When propranolol was given at the same time, the effect of curcumin disappeared. Conclusion: Curcumin could promote the resorption of alveolar bone at the pressure side and increase the osteoclast numbers so that the alveolar bone became looser which was beneficial to the movement of orthodontic tooth.

Targeting Stem Cells in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) dysfunction is a serious complication in ageing and age-related inflammatory diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus. Inflammation and oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence alter the immunomodulatory ability of MSCs and hamper their pro-regenerative function, which in turn leads to an increase in disease severity, maladaptive tissue damage and the development of comorbidities. Targeting stem/progenitor cells to restore their function and/or protect them against impairment could thus improve healing outcomes and significantly enhance the quality of life for diabetic patients. This review discusses the dysregulation of MSCs' immunomodulatory capacity in the context of diabetes mellitus and focuses on intervention strategies aimed at MSC rejuvenation. Research pertaining to the potential therapeutic use of either pharmacological agents (NFкB antagonists), natural products (phytomedicine) or biological agents (exosomes, probiotics) to improve MSC function is discussed and an overview of the most pertinent methodological considerations given. Based on in vitro studies, numerous anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants and biological agents show tremendous potential to revitalise MSCs. An integrated systems approach and a thorough understanding of complete disease pathology are however required to identify feasible candidates for in vivo targeting of MSCs.

Shared Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms between the Osteogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells and Bone Marrow Stem Cells

OBJECTIVE

To identify the shared genetic and epigenetic mechanisms between the osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) and bone marrow stem cells (BMSC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The profiling datasets of miRNA expression in the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells from the dental pulp (DPSC) and bone marrow (BMSC) were searched in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The differential expression analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) dysregulated in DPSC and BMSC osteodifferentiation. The target genes of the DEmiRNAs that were dysregulated in DPSC and BMSC osteodifferentiation were identified, followed by the identification of the signaling pathways and biological processes (BPs) of these target genes. Accordingly, the DEmiRNA-transcription factor (TFs) network and the DEmiRNAs-small molecular drug network involved in the DPSC and BMSC osteodifferentiation were constructed.

RESULTS

16 dysregulated DEmiRNAs were found to be overlapped in the DPSC and BMSC osteodifferentiation, including 8 DEmiRNAs with a common expression pattern (8 upregulated DEmiRNAs (miR-101-3p, miR-143-3p, miR-145-3p/5p, miR-19a-3p, miR-34c-5p, miR-3607-3p, miR-378e, miR-671-3p, and miR-671-5p) and 1 downregulated DEmiRNA (miR-671-3p/5p)), as well as 8 DEmiRNAs with a different expression pattern (i.e., miR-1273g-3p, miR-146a-5p, miR-146b-5p, miR-337-3p, miR-382-3p, miR-4508, miR-4516, and miR-6087). Several signaling pathways (TNF, mTOR, Hippo, neutrophin, and pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells), transcription factors (RUNX1, FOXA1, HIF1A, and MYC), and small molecule drugs (curcumin, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), vitamin D3, arsenic trioxide, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and naringin) were identified as common regulators of both the DPSC and BMSC osteodifferentiation.

CONCLUSION

Common genetic and epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the osteodifferentiation of DPSCs and BMSCs.

Comparison of Effects of Curcumin and Nano-curcumin on the Survival of Human-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: An Experimental Study

Aim:

To evaluate and compare the effect of curcumin (CUR) and Nano-curcumin (N-CUR) on human-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a dose-dependent manner.

Materials and Methods:

An experimental study performed with putative MSCs from a total of five systemically healthy subjects with chronic periodontitis. These putative MSCs were isolated by cell culture and were further characterized and identified by colony-forming unit assay and immunocytochemical analysis using cell surface markers CD105, CD146, CD45 and CD73. The identified MSCs were treated with different doses of CUR and N-CUR, and compared with α-minimum essential medium (α -MEM) for its cell viability by performing MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay for 48 and 72 hr. The statistically analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post hoc test and Bonferroni’s post hoc test.

Results:

Compared to the α-MEM group, both CUR and N-CUR treated cells have shown significantly ( P = .029) higher survival rate at lower concentration (0.1 and 0.5 µM/L), at 48 hr incubation. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the CUR and N-CUR groups on cell survival rate at both 48 and 72 hr incubation. When compared between the concentrations of the same group, significantly higher cell viability ( P = .001) was observed at lower concentrations (0.1, 0.5 µM/L) in both test groups after incubation for 48 and 72 hr.

Conclusion:

Both CUR and N-CUR have a dose-dependent effect on human derived MSCs survival when incubated for 48 hr, whereas N-CUR shows increased cell survival rate even at 72 hr of incubation. Although, the cautious use of CUR and N-CUR at higher concentrations is recommended.