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Bourgeois NM, Wei L, Ho NNT, Neal ML, Seferos D, Tongogara T, Mast FD, Aitchison JD, Kaushansky A. Multiple receptor tyrosine kinases regulate dengue infection of hepatocytes. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1264525. [PMID: 38585651 PMCID: PMC10995305 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1264525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dengue is an arboviral disease causing severe illness in over 500,000 people each year. Currently, there is no way to constrain dengue in the clinic. Host kinase regulators of dengue virus (DENV) infection have the potential to be disrupted by existing therapeutics to prevent infection and/or disease progression. Methods To evaluate kinase regulation of DENV infection, we performed kinase regression (KiR), a machine learning approach that predicts kinase regulators of infection using existing drug-target information and a small drug screen. We infected hepatocytes with DENV in vitro in the presence of a panel of 38 kinase inhibitors then quantified the effect of each inhibitor on infection rate. We employed elastic net regularization on these data to obtain predictions of which of 291 kinases are regulating DENV infection. Results Thirty-six kinases were predicted to have a functional role. Intriguingly, seven of the predicted kinases - EPH receptor A4 (EPHA4), EPH receptor B3 (EPHB3), EPH receptor B4 (EPHB4), erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2), fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), Insulin like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), and ret proto-oncogene (RET) - belong to the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, which are already therapeutic targets in the clinic. We demonstrate that predicted RTKs are expressed at higher levels in DENV infected cells. Knockdown of EPHB4, ERBB2, FGFR2, or IGF1R reduces DENV infection in hepatocytes. Finally, we observe differential temporal induction of ERBB2 and IGF1R following DENV infection, highlighting their unique roles in regulating DENV. Discussion Collectively, our findings underscore the significance of multiple RTKs in DENV infection and advocate further exploration of RTK-oriented interventions against dengue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha M. Bourgeois
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ling Wei
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Nhi N. T. Ho
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Maxwell L. Neal
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Denali Seferos
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tinotenda Tongogara
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Fred D. Mast
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - John D. Aitchison
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Alexis Kaushansky
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Suhana PA, Kusum L, Shruti JV, Sreekanth GP, Bijukumar D, Shaji Kumar RT, Muraleedharan KC, Kaushik S. Immunological Responses of Arsenicum album 30CH to Combat COVID-19: Protocol for a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in the Pathanamthitta District of Kerala. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e48479. [PMID: 37843912 PMCID: PMC10616730 DOI: 10.2196/48479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is a recent major public health concern caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with approximately 44.6 million COVID-19-positive cases and 530,000 deaths in India (as of February 1, 2023). The COVID-19 vaccination drive in India was initiated in January 2021; however, an effective preventive strategy with high efficacy and immunological safety remains elusive. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the immunogenic responses of Arsenicum album 30CH (AA30CH) as COVID-19 prophylaxis, including assessment of immunological markers, innate and acquired immune responses, COVID-19 symptoms, and its associated antibody responses. METHODS This randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) will include two parallel comparator groups of AA30CH and placebo with an allocation ratio of 1:1 conducted in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. The placebo or AA30CH will be administered in three intervention schedules and blood samples will be collected before and after each of the intervention schedules. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 112 participants per arm (with an expected dropout of 20%) will be screened. Immunogenic responses will be evaluated by determining the antigen density and modulation in immunological markers and lymphocyte subsets CD3, CD4, CD8, CD24, CD27, CD38, CD4 interferon-γ, CD4 CD17, CD4 CD25 (activated T lymphocytes), T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (mature and immature), and natural killer cells on days 1, 5, 23,27, 45, 49, and 66. The innate and acquired immune responses will also be evaluated by a real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) array profiler (84-gene set) before and after the study interventions. The toxicity status of AA30CH in study participants will be evaluated through hepatic, renal, and hematological parameters and peripheral smears on days 1, 5, 23, 27, 45, 49, and 66. The number of participants developing COVID-19-like symptoms per National Centre for Disease Control guidelines and the number of participants testing positive for COVID-19 in RT-PCR during follow-ups in any of the three intervention schedules will be identified. Moreover, a subgroup analysis will be used to assess the COVID-19 antibody responses between vaccinated and unvaccinated participants. RESULTS This RCT protocol has been approved by various committees and funded by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The project has been implemented in collaboration with the Department of Homoeopathy, Government of Kerala. The RCT was rolled out on January 25, 2023, and enrollment was completed April 3, 2023. The immunological assays will be conducted at the Department of Biotechnology-Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India. CONCLUSIONS This study will represent the first evaluation of the immunological efficacy and safety of AA30CH in an RCT, which may significantly impact the use of homeopathy as an evidence-based medicine approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials Registry-India CTRI/2022/08/045089; https://tinyurl.com/mryrpkvk. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/48479.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lata Kusum
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - Jain Vij Shruti
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - Gopinathan Pillai Sreekanth
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Damodaran Bijukumar
- District Medical Office (Pathanamthitta), Directorate of Homoeopathy, Government of Kerala, Pathanamthitta, India
| | - R T Shaji Kumar
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - K C Muraleedharan
- National Homoeopathy Research Institute Mental Health, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Government of India, Kottayam, India
| | - Subhash Kaushik
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
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Liu T, Li Y, Wang L, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Gai X, Chen L, Liu L, Yang L, Wang B. Network pharmacology-based exploration identified the antiviral efficacy of Quercetin isolated from mulberry leaves against enterovirus 71 via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1260288. [PMID: 37795035 PMCID: PMC10546324 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1260288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mulberry leaf (ML) is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, historically documented in "Shen Nong's Materia Medica". This study aimed to investigate the effects of ML on enterovirus 71 (EV71) using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments. Methods: We successfully pinpointed shared targets between mulberry leaves (ML) and the EV71 virus by leveraging online databases. Our investigation delved into the interaction among these identified targets, leading to the identification of pivotal components within ML that possess potent anti-EV71 properties. The ability of these components to bind to the targets was verified by molecular docking. Moreover, bioinformatics predictions were used to identify the signaling pathways involved. Finally, the mechanism behind its anti-EV71 action was confirmed through in vitro experiments. Results: Our investigation uncovered 25 active components in ML that targeted 231 specific genes. Of these genes, 29 correlated with the targets of EV71. Quercetin, a major ingredient in ML, was associated with 25 of these genes. According to the molecular docking results, Quercetin has a high binding affinity to the targets of ML and EV71. According to the KEGG pathway analysis, the antiviral effect of Quercetin against EV71 was found to be closely related to the NF-κB signaling pathway. The results of immunofluorescence and Western blotting showed that Quercetin significantly reduced the expression levels of VP1, TNF-α, and IL-1β in EV71-infected human rhabdomyosarcoma cells. The phosphorylation level of NF-κB p65 was reduced, and the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway was suppressed by Quercetin. Furthermore, our results showed that Quercetin downregulated the expression of JNK, ERK, and p38 and their phosphorylation levels due to EV71 infection. Conclusion: With these findings in mind, we can conclude that inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway is a critical mechanism through which Quercetin exerts its anti-EV71 effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianrun Liu
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Yingyu Li
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Lumeng Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | | | - Yuxuan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Xuejie Gai
- The Affiliated First Hospital, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Li Chen
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Lei Liu
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Limin Yang
- School of Medicine, Dalian University, Dalian, China
| | - Baixin Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
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De la Fuente Muñoz M, Román-Carmena M, Amor S, García-Villalón ÁL, Espinel AE, González-Hedström D, Granado García M. Effects of Supplementation with the Standardized Extract of Saffron (affron ®) on the Kynurenine Pathway and Melatonin Synthesis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1619. [PMID: 37627614 PMCID: PMC10451224 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is mainly synthesized in the pineal gland from tryptophan after its conversion into serotonin. Under normal conditions, less than 5% of tryptophan is reserved for the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin. The remaining 95% is metabolized in the liver through the kynurenine pathway. Increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and cortisol increase the metabolism of tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway and reduce its availability for the synthesis of melatonin and serotonin, which may cause alterations in mood and sleep. The standardized saffron extract (affron®) has shown beneficial effects on mood and sleep disorders in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the effects of affron® supplementation on the kynurenine pathway and the synthesis of melatonin in rats. For this purpose, adult male Wistar rats were supplemented for 7 days with 150 mg/kg of affron® or vehicle (2 mL/kg water) administered by gavage one hour before sleep. Affron® supplementation reduced body weight gain and increased the circulating levels of melatonin, testosterone, and c-HDL. Moreover, animals supplemented with affron® showed decreased serum levels of kynurenine, ET-1, and c-LDL. In the pineal gland, affron® reduced Il-6 expression and increased the expression of Aanat, the key enzyme for melatonin synthesis. In the liver, affron® administration decreased the mRNA levels of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway Ido-2, Tod-2, and Aadat, as well as the gene expression of Il-1β and Tnf-α. Finally, rats treated with affron® showed increased mRNA levels of the antioxidant enzymes Ho-1, Sod-1, Gsr, and Gpx-3, both in the liver and in the pineal gland. In conclusion, affron® supplementation reduces kynurenine levels and promotes melatonin synthesis in rats, possibly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making this extract a possible alternative for the treatment and/or prevention of mood and sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario De la Fuente Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Marta Román-Carmena
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Sara Amor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Ángel Luís García-Villalón
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Alberto E. Espinel
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Daniel González-Hedström
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Miriam Granado García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Weiskirchen R. Commentary: Crocetin protected human hepatocyte LO2 cell from TGF-β-induced oxygen stress and apoptosis but promoted proliferation and autophagy via AMPK/m-TOR pathway. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1002484. [PMID: 36452952 PMCID: PMC9701700 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1002484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Guo H, Ruan C, Zhan X, Pan H, Luo Y, Gao K. Crocetin Protected Human Hepatocyte LO2 Cell From TGF-β-Induced Oxygen Stress and Apoptosis but Promoted Proliferation and Autophagy via AMPK/m-TOR Pathway. Front Public Health 2022; 10:909125. [PMID: 35836988 PMCID: PMC9273739 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.909125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the protective effects of crocetin against transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)—induced injury in LO2 cells. Methods Human hepatocyte LO2 cells were pre-treated with crocetin (10 μM) for 6, 12, and 24 h, and then induced by TGF-β. Proliferation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and related proteins were assessed. Results Crocetin pre-treating promoted proliferation but suppressed apoptosis in TGF-β-induced LO2 cells. Crocetin protected LO2 cells from TGF-β-induced inflammation and oxygen stress by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) but enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH). Autophagy was suppressed in TGF-β but crocetin promoted autophagy in LO2 cells by mediating Adenosine 5'-monophosphate—activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (m-TOR) signaling pathway via upregulating p-AMPK and p-Beclin-1 but downregulating p-mTOR. Conclusions Crocetin protected LO2 cells from TGF-β-induced damage by promoting proliferation and autophagy, and suppressing apoptosis and anti-inflammation via regulation of AMPK/m-TOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenyu Ruan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuhong Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yumei Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke Gao
- Department of Pathology, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
- *Correspondence: Ke Gao
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da Fonseca AM, Soares NB, Meirú MIL, Colares RP, Neto MM, Sobrinho ACN, Dos Santos HS, Marinho ES. Combined study of docking and molecular dynamics against DNV-3 SN1 protein by bixinoids. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022:1-11. [PMID: 35510585 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2070282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Dengue (DENV), Zica virus (ZIKV), and Chikungunya fever (CHIK) are tropical diseases that have caused a lot of problems in general worldwide. Transmitted by mosquitoes of the species Aedes aegypti and albopictus, they have not been completely eradicated in the country, and their proliferation has only increased in the Northeast region. Within the structure of the virus, it is possible to verify the presence of glycoprotein SN1, which is responsible for its replication. If this macromolecule is inhibited using a specific or complex linker, it can interrupt its replication activity. An alternative to this problem has been using structures derived from natural products that have pharmacological properties. A dynamic and molecular docking combined study used computational simulation in the four isomeric forms of bixin against the SN1 protein. The Z,E-bixin and E,E-bixin isomers, both with affinity energy -6.7 and -6.5 Kcal/mol, presented the best results. Thus, bixin and its isomers, found in annatto seeds, maybe an initial proposal in the search for prototype compounds to study to fight this lethal virus in the future.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aluísio Marques da Fonseca
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Acarape, Brazil
| | - Neidelênio Baltazar Soares
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Acarape, Brazil
| | - Maria Imaculada Lourenço Meirú
- Academic Master in Sociobiodiversity and Sustainable Technologies, Institute of Engineering and Sustainable Development, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Acarape, Brazil
| | - Regilany Paulo Colares
- Institute of Exact Sciences and Nature, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Acarape, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Emmanuel Silva Marinho
- Natural Sciences, Science and Technology Center, Ceará State University, Fortaleza, Brazil.,Theoretical and Electrochemical Chemistry Research Group/FAFIDAM, State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, Brazil
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Guo ZL, Li MX, Li XL, Wang P, Wang WG, Du WZ, Yang ZQ, Chen SF, Wu D, Tian XY. Crocetin: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:745683. [PMID: 35095483 PMCID: PMC8795768 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.745683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is an aglycone of crocin naturally occurring in saffron and produced in biological systems by hydrolysis of crocin as a bioactive metabolite. It is known to exist in several medicinal plants, the desiccative ripe fruit of the cape jasmine belonging to the Rubiaceae family, and stigmas of the saffron plant of the Iridaceae family. According to modern pharmacological investigations, crocetin possesses cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antidepressant, antiviral, anticancer, atherosclerotic, antidiabetic, and memory-enhancing properties. Although poor bioavailability hinders therapeutic applications, derivatization and formulation preparation technologies have broadened the application prospects for crocetin. To promote the research and development of crocetin, we summarized the distribution, preparation and production, total synthesis and derivatization technology, pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetics, drug safety, drug formulations, and preparation of crocetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Liang Guo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mao-Xing Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Gang Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Ze Du
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,Institute of Chemical Technology, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Sheng-Fu Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiu-Yu Tian
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese of PLA, Gansu Plateau Pharmaceutical Technology Center, Lanzhou, China.,College of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Zhu L, He C. Crocetin alleviates the caerulein-induced apoptosis and inflammation in AR42J cells by activating SIRT1 via NF-κB. J Nat Med. [DOI: 10.1007/s11418-021-01597-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Khalil A, Tazeddinova D, Aljoumaa K, Kazhmukhanbetkyzy ZA, Orazov A, Toshev AD. Carotenoids: Therapeutic Strategy in the Battle against Viral Emerging Diseases, COVID-19: An Overview. Prev Nutr Food Sci 2021; 26:241-261. [PMID: 34737985 PMCID: PMC8531419 DOI: 10.3746/pnf.2021.26.3.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Carotenoids, a group of phytochemicals, are naturally found in the Plant kingdom, particularly in fruits, vegetables, and algae. There are more than 600 types of carotenoids, some of which are thought to prevent disease, mainly through their antioxidant properties. Carotenoids exhibit several biological and pharmaceutical benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immunity booster properties, particularly as some carotenoids can be converted into vitamin A in the body. However, humans cannot synthesize carotenoids and need to obtain them from their diets or via supplementation. The emerging zoonotic virus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), originated in bats, and was transmitted to humans. COVID-19 continues to cause devastating international health problems worldwide. Therefore, natural preventive therapeutic strategies from bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, should be appraised for strengthening physiological functions against emerging viruses. This review summarizes the most important carotenoids for human health and enhancing immunity, and their potential role in COVID-19 and its related symptoms. In conclusion, promising roles of carotenoids as treatments against emerging disease and related symptoms are highlighted, most of which have been heavily premeditated in studies conducted on several viral infections, including COVID-19. Further in vitro and in vivo research is required before carotenoids can be considered as potent drugs against such emerging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Khalil
- Department of Food technology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454080, Russian Federation
| | - Diana Tazeddinova
- Department of Food technology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454080, Russian Federation
| | - Khaled Aljoumaa
- Department of Food technology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk 454080, Russian Federation
| | | | - Ayan Orazov
- Higher School of Technologies of Food and Processing Productions, Zhangir Khan University, Uralsk 090009, The Republic of Kazakhstan
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Xu Z, Lin S, Gong J, Feng P, Cao Y, Li Q, Jiang Y, You Y, Tong Y, Wang P. Exploring the Protective Effects and Mechanism of Crocetin From Saffron Against NAFLD by Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:681391. [PMID: 34179049 PMCID: PMC8219931 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.681391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a burgeoning health problem but no drug has been approved for its treatment. Animal experiments and clinical trials have demonstrated the beneficial of saffron on NAFLD. However, the bioactive ingredients and therapeutic targets of saffron on NAFLD are unclear. Purpose: This study aimed to identify the bioactive ingredients of saffron responsible for its effects on NAFLD and explore its therapy targets through network pharmacology combined with experimental tests. Methods: Various network databases were searched to identify bioactive ingredients of saffron and identify NAFLD-related targets. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment were conducted to enrich functions and molecular pathways of common targets and the STRING database was used to establish a protein-protein interaction network (PPI). The effect of crocetin (CCT) on NAFLD was evaluated in a mouse model of NAFLD by measuring the biomarkers of lipid, liver and renal function, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Liver histopathology was performed to evaluate liver injury. Nuclear factor erythroid-related factor (Nrf2) and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) were examined to elucidate underlying mechanism for the protective effect of saffron against NAFLD. Results: A total of nine bioactive ingredients of saffron, including CCT, with 206 common targets showed therapeutic effects on NAFLD. Oxidative stress and diabetes related signaling pathways were identified as the critical signaling pathways mediating the therapeutic effects of the active bioactive ingredients on NAFLD. Treatment with CCT significantly reduced the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), malondialdehyde (MDA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CR), and uric acid (UA). CCT significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Histological analysis showed that CCT suppressed high-fat diet (HFD) induced fat accumulation, steatohepatitis, and renal dysfunctions. Results of ELISA assay showed that CCT decreased the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and increased the expression of HO-1 and Nrf2. Conclusion: This study shows that CCT is a potential bioactive ingredient of saffron that treats NAFLD. Its mechanism of action involves suppressing of oxidative stress, mitigating inflammation, and upregulating Nrf2 and HO-1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Susu Lin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Gong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peishi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Cao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuli Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya You
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingpeng Tong
- School of Life Sciences, Taizhou University, Taizhou, China
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
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Shah HM, Jain AS, Joshi SV, Kharkar PS. Crocetin and related oxygen diffusion-enhancing compounds: Review of chemical synthesis, pharmacology, clinical development, and novel therapeutic applications. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:883-895. [PMID: 33817811 PMCID: PMC8273373 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The current pandemic forced us to introspect and revisit our armamentarium of medicinal agents which could be life‐saving in emergency situations. Oxygen diffusion‐enhancing compounds represent one such class of potential therapeutic agents, particularly in ischemic conditions. As rewarding as the name suggests, these agents, represented by the most advanced and first‐in‐class molecule, trans‐sodium crocetinate (TSC), are the subject of intense clinical investigation, including Phase 1b/2b clinical trials for COVID‐19. Being a successor of a natural product, crocetin, TSC is being investigated for various cancers as a radiosensitizer owing to its oxygen diffusion enhancement capability. The unique properties of TSC make it a promising therapeutic agent for various ailments such as hemorrhagic shock, stroke, heart attack, among others. The present review outlines various (bio)synthetic strategies, pharmacological aspects, clinical overview and potential therapeutic benefits of crocetin and related compounds including TSC. The recent literature focusing on the delivery aspects of these compounds is covered as well to paint the complete picture to the curious reader. Given the potential TSC holds as a first‐in‐class agent, small‐ and/or macromolecular therapeutics based on the core concept of improved oxygen diffusion from blood to the surrounding tissues where it is needed the most, will be developed in future and satisfy the unmet medical need for many diseases and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hriday M Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashvi S Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Shreerang V Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Prashant S Kharkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
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