Lycopene alleviates oxidative stress via the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2pathway in a cell model of Alzheimer's disease

Lycopene Protects Corneal Endothelial Cells from Oxidative Stress by Regulating the P62-Autophagy-Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway

Oxidative stress is a key mechanism in corneal endothelial damage-related diseases, which is induced by environmental factors and genetic mutations. Lycopene (LYC), one of the most potent natural antioxidants, has been shown to offer significant protection against various diseases. However, its role and mechanisms in corneal endothelial damage remain unclear. In this study, an oxidative stress-induced injury model was created using the B4G12 cell line, and a disease model for Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) was established using genetically edited mice, both of which were treated with LYC. The results demonstrated that lycopene effectively protected corneal endothelial cells and slowed the progression of FECD. The protective mechanism involves upregulating P62 and activating autophagy, leading to Keap1 degradation, Nrf2 nuclear translocation, and activation of downstream antioxidant proteins. This study broadens the potential application of lycopene in protecting the corneal endothelium and provides a new non-surgical approach for treating corneal endothelial damage-related diseases.

Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products for Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition marked by memory loss and cognitive decline. With current treatments offering limited effectiveness, researchers are turning to natural products that can target various aspects of AD pathology. Clinically approved natural products, such as galantamine and huperzine A, have shown success in AD treatments. Furthermore, compounds such as epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, and resveratrol are in clinical trials. This Perspective examines nearly 100 natural compounds with promising neuroprotective effects in preclinical and clinical studies. These compounds exhibit diverse pharmacological actions that help to prevent neurodegeneration while improving cognitive functions. Their unique structures further enhance their biological activities, making them promising candidates for drug discovery. This Perspective stresses the importance of further clinical research to maximize the medical benefits of these compounds and highlights their potential as innovative remedies for AD. Continued exploration of these compounds is crucial to fully leverage their capabilities in combating AD.

Nrf2/Keap1/ARE regulation by plant secondary metabolites: a new horizon in brain tumor management

Brain cancer is regarded as one of the most life-threatening forms of cancer worldwide. Oxidative stress acts to derange normal brain homeostasis, thus is involved in carcinogenesis in brain. The Nrf2/Keap1/ARE pathway is an important signaling cascade responsible for the maintenance of redox homeostasis, and regulation of anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities by multiple downstream pathways. Interestingly, Nrf2 plays a somewhat, contradictory role in cancers, including brain cancer. Nrf2 has traditionally been regarded as a tumor suppressor since its cytoprotective functions are considered to be the principle cellular defense mechanism against exogenous and endogenous insults, such as xenobiotics and oxidative stress. However, hyperactivation of the Nrf2 pathway supports the survival of normal as well as malignant cells, protecting them against oxidative stress, and therapeutic agents. Plants possess a pool of secondary metabolites with potential chemotherapeutic/chemopreventive actions. Modulation of Nrf2/ARE and downstream activities in a Keap1-dependant manner, with the aid of plant-derived secondary metabolites exhibits promise in the management of brain tumors. Current article highlights the effects of Nrf2/Keap1/ARE cascade on brain tumors, and the potential role of secondary metabolites regarding the management of the same.

Taming neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: The protective role of phytochemicals through the gut-brain axis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative neurological condition characterized by cognitive decline, primarily affecting memory and logical thinking, attributed to amyloid-β plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to neuronal loss and brain atrophy. Neuroinflammation, a hallmark of AD, involves the activation of microglia and astrocytes in response to pathological changes, potentially exacerbating neuronal damage. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication pathway between the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems, crucial for maintaining brain health. Phytochemicals, natural compounds found in plants with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids, curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin, have emerged as potential modulators of this axis, suggesting implications for AD prevention. Intake of phytochemicals influences the gut microbial composition and its metabolites, thereby impacting neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Consumption of phytochemical-rich foods may promote a healthy gut microbiota, fostering the production of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective substances. Early dietary incorporation of phytochemicals offers a non-invasive strategy for modulating the gut-brain axis and potentially reducing AD risk or delaying its onset. The exploration of interventions targeting the gut-brain axis through phytochemical intake represents a promising avenue for the development of preventive or therapeutic strategies against AD initiation and progression.

Carotenoid Supplementation for Alleviating the Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by, among other things, dementia and a decline in cognitive performance. In AD, dementia has neurodegenerative features and starts with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Research indicates that apoptosis and neuronal loss occur in AD, in which oxidative stress plays an important role. Therefore, reducing oxidative stress with antioxidants is a natural strategy to prevent and slow down the progression of AD. Carotenoids are natural pigments commonly found in fruits and vegetables. They include lipophilic carotenes, such as lycopene, α- and β-carotenes, and more polar xanthophylls, for example, lutein, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and β-cryptoxanthin. Carotenoids can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and scavenge free radicals, especially singlet oxygen, which helps prevent the peroxidation of lipids abundant in the brain. As a result, carotenoids have neuroprotective potential. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies, as well as randomized controlled trials, have mostly confirmed that carotenoids can help prevent neurodegeneration and alleviate cognitive impairment in AD. While carotenoids have not been officially approved as an AD therapy, they are indicated in the diet recommended for AD, including the consumption of products rich in carotenoids. This review summarizes the latest research findings supporting the potential use of carotenoids in preventing and alleviating AD symptoms. A literature review suggests that a diet rich in carotenoids should be promoted to avoid cognitive decline in AD. One of the goals of the food industry should be to encourage the enrichment of food products with functional substances, such as carotenoids, which may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Development of dietary small molecules as multi-targeting treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease

Cognitive dysfunction can occur both in normal aging and age-related neurological disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD). These disorders have few treatment options due to side effects and limited efficacy. New approaches to slow cognitive decline are urgently needed. Dietary interventions (nutraceuticals) have received considerable attention because they exhibit strong neuroprotective properties and may help prevent or minimize AD symptoms. Biological aging is driven by a series of interrelated mechanisms, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, and autophagy, which function through various signaling pathways. Recent clinical and preclinical studies have shown that dietary small molecules derived from natural sources, including flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenolic acids, can modulate oxidative damage, cognitive impairments, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, autophagy dysregulation, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. This paper reviews research on different dietary small molecules and their bioactive constituents in the treatment of AD. Additionally, the chemical structure, effective dose, and specific molecular mechanisms of action are comprehensively explored. This paper also discusses the advantages of using nanotechnology-based drug delivery, which significantly enhances oral bioavailability, safety, and therapeutic effect, and lowers the risk of adverse effects. These agents have considerable potential as novel and safe therapeutic agents that can prevent and combat age-related AD.

Physicochemical properties, mechanism of action of lycopene and its application in poultry and ruminant production

Lycopene is a kind of natural carotenoid that could achieve antioxidant, anti-cancer, lipid-lowering and immune-improving effects by up-regulating or down-regulating genes related to antioxidant, anti-cancer, lipid-lowering and immunity. Furthermore, lycopene is natural, pollution-free, and has no toxic side effects. The application of lycopene in animal production has shown that it could improve livestock production performance, slaughter performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and meat quality. Therefore, lycopene as a new type of feed additive, has broader application prospects in many antibiotic-forbidden environments. This article serves as a reference for the use of lycopene as a health feed additive in animal production by going over its physical and chemical characteristics, antioxidant, lipid-lowering, anti-cancer, and application in animal production.

The neurobiology and therapeutic potential of multi-targeting β-secretase, glycogen synthase kinase 3β and acetylcholinesterase in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, affecting almost 50 million of people around the world, characterized by a complex and age-related progressive pathology with projections to duplicate its incidence by the end of 2050. AD pathology has two major hallmarks, the amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation, alongside with several sub pathologies including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, loss of neurogenesis and synaptic dysfunction. In recent years, extensive research pointed out several therapeutic targets which have shown promising effects on modifying the course of the disease in preclinical models of AD but with substantial failure when transposed to clinic trials, suggesting that modulating just an isolated feature of the pathology might not be sufficient to improve brain function and enhance cognition. In line with this, there is a growing consensus that an ideal disease modifying drug should address more than one feature of the pathology. Considering these evidence, β-secretase (BACE1), Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) has emerged as interesting therapeutic targets. BACE1 is the rate-limiting step in the Aβ production, GSK-3β is considered the main kinase responsible for Tau hyperphosphorylation, and AChE play an important role in modulating memory formation and learning. However, the effects underlying the modulation of these enzymes are not limited by its primarily functions, showing interesting effects in a wide range of impaired events secondary to AD pathology. In this sense, this review will summarize the involvement of BACE1, GSK-3β and AChE on synaptic function, neuroplasticity, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, we will present and discuss new perspectives on the modulation of these pathways on AD pathology and future directions on the development of drugs that concomitantly target these enzymes.

Brain-targeted lycopene-loaded microemulsion modulates neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and synaptic plasticity in β-amyloid-induced Alzheimer's disease mice

OBJECTIVES

β-Amyloid protein (Aβ) plays pivotal roles in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and triggers various pathophysiological events. Lycopene is a promising neuroprotector with multiple bioactivities, while its bioavailability is limited. Lycopene-loaded microemulsion (LME) possessing superior bioavailability and brain-targeting efficiency was developed in our previous study. In this investigation, we aimed to comprehensively evaluate its neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanisms using intracerebroventricular (ICV) Aβ_1-42 injection mice.

METHODS

Mice were assigned to the Sham, Aβ, Aβ + LME and Aβ + lycopene dissolved in olive oil (LOO) groups. ICV Aβ_1-42 administration was performed, followed by oral gavage of brain-targeted LME or conventional LOO formulation for 3 weeks. Brain samples were harvested for immunohistochemistry, biochemical assays and western blotting analyses.

RESULTS

Our findings verified Aβ-induced neurotoxicity on neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, Aβ metabolisms and synaptic plasticity. LME supplementation dramatically attenuated astrocytosis and microgliosis, decreased malondialdehyde production and rescued antioxidant capacities, normalized apoptotic parameters and alleviated neuronal loss, inhibited amyloidogenic processing and activated non-amyloidogenic pathway, together with upregulating synaptic protein expressions and restoring synaptic plasticity. Nevertheless, most of these phenomena were not observed for mice treated with LOO, implying that LME showed significantly higher therapeutic efficacy against Aβ injury.

DISCUSSION

In summary, brain-targeted LME could exert neuroprotective function via suppressing a series of cascades triggered by Aβ aggregates, thus ameliorating Aβ neurotoxicity and associated abnormalities. Given this, LME may serve as an attractive candidate for AD prevention and treatment, and superiority of brain-targeting delivery is highlighted.

The pivotal role of JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathways in neurodegenerative diseases: Mechanistic approaches to polyphenols and alkaloids

BACKGROUND

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are characterized by progressive neuronal dysfunctionality which results in disability and human life-threatening events. In recent decades, NDDs are on the rise. Besides, conventional drugs have not shown potential effectiveness to attenuate the complications of NDDs. So, exploring novel therapeutic agents is an urgent need to combat such disorders. Accordingly, growing evidence indicates that polyphenols and alkaloids are promising natural candidates, possessing several beneficial pharmacological effects against diseases. Considering the complex pathophysiological mechanisms behind NDDs, Janus kinase (JAK), insulin receptor substrate (IRS), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) seem to play critical roles during neurodegeneration/neuroregeneration. In this line, modulation of the JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathways and their interconnected mediators by polyphenols/alkaloids could play pivotal roles in combating NDDs, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), stroke, aging, multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), depression and other neurological disorders.

PURPOSE

Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective roles of polyphenols/alkaloids as multi-target natural products against NDDs which are critically passing through the modulation of the JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathways.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic and comprehensive review was performed to highlight the modulatory roles of polyphenols and alkaloids on the JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathways in NDDs, according to the PRISMA guideline, using scholarly electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and associated reference lists.

RESULTS

In the present study 141 articles were included from a total of 1267 results. The results showed that phenolic compounds such as curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and quercetin, and alkaloids such as berberine could be introduced as new strategies in combating NDDs through JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathways. This is the first systematic review that reveals the correlation between the JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K axis which is targeted by phytochemicals in NDDs. Hence, this review highlighted promising insights into the neuroprotective potential of polyphenols and alkaloids through the JAK/STAT and IRS/PI3K signaling pathway and interconnected mediators toward neuroprotection.

CONCLUSION

Amongst natural products, phenolic compounds and alkaloids are multi-targeting agents with the most antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects possessing the potential of combating NDDs with high efficacy and lower toxicity. However, additional reports are needed to prove the efficacy and possible side effects of natural products.

Echinocystic acid alleviated hypoxic-ischemic brain damage in neonatal mice by activating the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is considered a major cause of death and long-term neurological injury in newborns. Studies have demonstrated that oxidative stress and apoptosis play a major role in the progression of neonatal HIE. Echinocystic acid (EA), a natural plant extract, shows great antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities in various diseases. However, it has not yet been reported whether EA exerts a neuroprotective effect against neonatal HIE. Therefore, this study was undertaken to explore the neuroprotective effects and potential mechanisms of EA in neonatal HIE using in vivo and in vitro experiments. In the in vivo study, a hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) model was established in neonatal mice, and EA was administered immediately after HIBD. Cerebral infarction, brain atrophy and long-term neurobehavioral deficits were measured. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and dihydroethidium (DHE) staining were performed, and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were detected. In the in vitro study, an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model was employed in primary cortical neurons, and EA was introduced during OGD/R. Cell death and cellular ROS levels were determined. To illustrate the mechanism, the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 were used. The protein expression levels of p-PI3K, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, Nrf2, NQO1, and HO-1 were measured by western blotting. The results showed that EA treatment significantly reduced cerebral infarction, attenuated neuronal injury, and improved brain atrophy and long-term neurobehavioral deficits in neonatal mice subjected to HIBD. Meanwhile, EA effectively increased the survival rate in neurons exposed to OGD/R and inhibited oxidative stress and apoptosis in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Moreover, EA activated the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway in neonatal mice following HIBD and in neurons after OGD/R. In conclusion, these results suggested that EA alleviated HIBD by ameliorating oxidative stress and apoptosis via activation of the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Non-Esterified Fatty Acid-Induced Apoptosis in Bovine Granulosa Cells via ROS-Activated PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 Pathway

Non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), one of negative energy balance (NEB)'s most well-known products, has a significant impact on cows' reproductive potential. Our study used an in vitro model to investigate the deleterious effects of NEFA on bovine granulosa cells (BGCs) and its underlying molecular mechanism. The results showed that high levels of NEFA led to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased the expression of apoptosis-related factors such as Bcl2-Associated X/B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bax/Bcl-2) and Caspase-3, and down-regulated steroid synthesis-related genes such as sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17), and cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19), to promote oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and steroid hormone synthesis disorders in BGCs. In addition, NEFA significantly inhibited phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT) activity and increased forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) expression. To further explore the role of the PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 signaling pathway in NEFA, we found that pretreatment with AKT-specific activator SC79 (5 mg/mL) for 2 h or transfection with FoxO1 knockdown siRNA in BGCs could alleviate the negative effects of NEFA treatment by decreasing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and Caspase-3 expression, and upregulating SREBP-1, CYP17, and CYP19 expression. Meanwhile, SC79 significantly inhibited NEFA-induced dephosphorylation and massive nuclear translocation of FoxO1. Taken together, the NEFA induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and steroid hormone synthesis disorders in BGCs by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway that regulates FoxO1 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Our findings help to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the negative effects of high levels of NEFA on BGCs.

Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants against Alzheimer's Disease: Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. Although substantial research has been conducted to elucidate the complex pathophysiology of AD, the therapeutic approach still has limited efficacy in clinical practice. Oxidative stress (OS) has been established as an early driver of several age-related diseases, including neurodegeneration. In AD, increased levels of reactive oxygen species mediate neuronal lipid, protein, and nucleic acid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic damage, and inflammation. Thus, the identification of novel antioxidant molecules capable of detecting, preventing, and counteracting AD onset and progression is of the utmost importance. However, although several studies have been published, comprehensive and up-to-date overviews of the principal anti-AD agents harboring antioxidant properties remain scarce. In this narrative review, we summarize the role of vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, non-flavonoids, mitochondria-targeting molecules, organosulfur compounds, and carotenoids as non-enzymatic antioxidants with AD diagnostic, preventative, and therapeutic potential, thereby offering insights into the relationship between OS and neurodegeneration.

Natural Carotenoids as Neuroprotective Agents for Alzheimer's Disease: An Evidence-Based Comprehensive Review

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder of an ever-increasing aging population with various pathological features such as β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation, oxidative stress, an impaired cholinergic system, and neuroinflammation. Several therapeutic drugs have been introduced to slow the progression of AD by targeting the above-mentioned pathways. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that naturally occurring compounds have the potential to serve as adjuvant therapies to alleviate AD symptoms. Carotenoids, a group of natural pigments with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, are proposed to be implicated in neuroprotection. To obtain a comprehensive picture of the effect of carotenoids on AD prevention and development, we critically reviewed and discussed recent evidence from in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and human studies in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane (CENTRAL). After analyzing the existing evidence, we found that high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are lacking to explore the neuroprotective role of carotenoids in AD pathogenesis and symptoms, especially carotenoids with solid preclinical evidence such as astaxanthin, fucoxanthin, macular carotenoids, and crocin, in order to develop effective preventive dietary supplements for AD patients to ameliorate the symptoms. This review points out directions for future studies to advance the knowledge in this field.

Potential Benefits of Lycopene Consumption: Rationale for Using It as an Adjuvant Treatment for Malaria Patients and in Several Diseases

Malaria is a disease that affects thousands of people around the world every year. Its pathogenesis is associated with the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and lower levels of micronutrients and antioxidants. Patients under drug treatment have high levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in the body tissues, which limits the use of these drugs. Therefore, several studies have suggested that RONS inhibition may represent an adjuvant therapeutic strategy in the treatment of these patients by increasing the antioxidant capacity of the host. In this sense, supplementation with antioxidant compounds such as zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E has been suggested as part of the treatment. Among dietary antioxidants, lycopene is the most powerful antioxidant among the main carotenoids. This review aimed to describe the main mechanisms inducing oxidative stress during malaria, highlighting the production of RONS as a defense mechanism against the infection induced by the ischemia-reperfusion syndrome, the metabolism of the parasite, and the metabolism of antimalarial drugs. Furthermore, the effects of lycopene on several diseases in which oxidative stress is implicated as a cause are outlined, providing information about its mechanism of action, and providing an evidence-based justification for its supplementation in malaria.

Resveratrol-Selenium Nanoparticles Alleviate Neuroinflammation and Neurotoxicity in a Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease by Regulating Sirt1/miRNA-134/GSK3β Expression

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a brain disorder associated with a gradual weakening in neurocognitive functions, neuroinflammation, and impaired signaling pathways. Resveratrol (RSV) has neuroprotective properties, but with low bioavailability, and low solubility in vivo. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for brain function. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of formulated RSV-Se nanoparticles (RSV-SeNPs) on neurochemical and histopathological approaches associated with the AD model in rats induced by Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for 60 days. RSV-SeNPs supplementation attenuates the impaired oxidative markers and mitochondrial dysfunction. The ameliorative effect of RSV-SeNPs on cholinergic deficits was associated with clearance of amyloid β (Aβ). Furthermore, activation of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) deactivates glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β)-mediated tau hyperphosphorylation. Additionally, RSV-SeNPs downregulate signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) expression as well as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels, therefore alleviating neuroinflammation in AD. Moreover, RSV-SeNPs upregulate the expression of Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and lower that of microRNA-134, consequently increasing neurite outgrowth. Eventually, the obtained results showed that nano-formulation of resveratrol with selenium maximized the therapeutic potential of RSV against Alzheimer's disease not only by their antioxidant but also by anti-inflammatory effect improving the neurocognitive function and modulating the signaling pathways.

Mechanistic Insights into the Neuroprotective Potential of Sacred Ficus Trees

Ficus religiosa (Bo tree or sacred fig) and Ficus benghalensis (Indian banyan) are of immense spiritual and therapeutic importance. Various parts of these trees have been investigated for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, dermoprotective, and nephroprotective properties. Previous reviews of Ficus mostly discussed traditional usages, photochemistry, and pharmacological activities, though comprehensive reviews of the neuroprotective potential of these Ficus species extracts and/or their important phytocompounds are lacking. The interesting phytocompounds from these trees include many bengalenosides, carotenoids, flavonoids (leucopelargonidin-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, leucopelargonidin-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside, lupeol, cetyl behenate, and α-amyrin acetate), flavonols (kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin), leucocyanidin, phytosterols (bergapten, bergaptol, lanosterol, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol), terpenes (α-thujene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, limonene, β-ocimene, β-bourbonene, β-caryophyllene, α-trans-bergamotene, α-copaene, aromadendrene, α-humulene, alloaromadendrene, germacrene, γ-cadinene, and δ-cadinene), and diverse polyphenols (tannin, wax, saponin, leucoanthocyanin), contributing significantly to their pharmacological effects, ranging from antimicrobial action to neuroprotection. This review presents extensive mechanistic insights into the neuroprotective potential, especially important phytochemicals from F. religiosa and F. benghalensis. Owing to the complex pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), the currently existing drugs merely alleviate the symptoms. Hence, bioactive compounds with potent neuroprotective effects through a multitarget approach would be of great interest in developing pharmacophores for the treatment of NDDs.

Lycopene: Sojourn from kitchen to an effective therapy in Alzheimer's disease

Reports on a significant positive correlation between consumption of carotenoid-rich food and prevention of Alzheimer's disease (AD) led to the investigation of carotenoids for the treatment and prevention of AD. More than 1100 types of carotenoids are found naturally, out of which only around 50 are absorbed and metabolized in human body. Lycopene is one of the most commonly ingested members of fat-soluble carotenoid family that gives vegetables and fruits their red, yellow, or orange color. Lycopene has established itself as a promising therapy for AD owing to its neuroprotective activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiamyloidogenic properties. In this review, we highlight the various in vitro and preclinical studies demonstrating the neuroprotective effect of lycopene. Also, some epidemiological and interventional studies investigating the protective effect of lycopene in AD have been discussed. Diving deeper, we also discuss various significant mechanisms, through which lycopene exerts its remissive effects in AD. Finally, to overcome the issue of poor chemical stability and bioavailability of lycopene, some of the novel delivery systems developed for lycopene have also been briefly highlighted.

Free radical biology in neurological manifestations: mechanisms to therapeutics interventions

Recent advancements and growing attention about free radicals (ROS) and redox signaling enable the scientific fraternity to consider their involvement in the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurological defects. Free radicals increase the concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the biological system through different endogenous sources and thus increased the overall oxidative stress. An increase in oxidative stress causes cell death through different signaling mechanisms such as mitochondrial impairment, cell-cycle arrest, DNA damage response, inflammation, negative regulation of protein, and lipid peroxidation. Thus, an appropriate balance between free radicals and antioxidants becomes crucial to maintain physiological function. Since the 1brain requires high oxygen for its functioning, it is highly vulnerable to free radical generation and enhanced ROS in the brain adversely affects axonal regeneration and synaptic plasticity, which results in neuronal cell death. In addition, increased ROS in the brain alters various signaling pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation and microglial activation, DNA damage response, and cell-cycle arrest, leading to memory and learning defects. Mounting evidence suggests the potential involvement of micro-RNAs, circular-RNAs, natural and dietary compounds, synthetic inhibitors, and heat-shock proteins as therapeutic agents to combat neurological diseases. Herein, we explain the mechanism of free radical generation and its role in mitochondrial, protein, and lipid peroxidation biology. Further, we discuss the negative role of free radicals in synaptic plasticity and axonal regeneration through the modulation of various signaling molecules and also in the involvement of free radicals in various neurological diseases and their potential therapeutic approaches. The primary cause of free radical generation is drug overdosing, industrial air pollution, toxic heavy metals, ionizing radiation, smoking, alcohol, pesticides, and ultraviolet radiation. Excessive generation of free radicals inside the cell R1Q1 increases reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which causes oxidative damage. An increase in oxidative damage alters different cellular pathways and processes such as mitochondrial impairment, DNA damage response, cell cycle arrest, and inflammatory response, leading to pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative disease other neurological defects.

The Effects of Six Weeks of Endurance Training and CGRP Inhibition on Nrf2 and AKT Expression in the Hippocampal Tissue of Male Wistar Rats

Purpose

To study the effects of a six-week endurance training protocol and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibition on the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and protein kinase B (PKB) or AKT expression in the hippocampal tissue of male Wistar rats. Main Methods. Building on a controlled experimental design with a posttest, 28 healthy Wistar male rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 7 per group), including control, control+CGRP inhibition, endurance training, and endurance training+CGRP inhibition groups. The training groups were trained for six weeks. Rats in the CGRP inhibition group received CGRP receptor antagonist daily (0.25 mg/kg) via intravenous (IV) injection. The Nrf2 and AKT (PKB) expression was measured using the real-time PCR technique.

Results

In the endurance training group, Nrf2 expression in the hippocampal tissue was increased significantly more than in other groups (P < 0.05). There was also a significant increase in the AKT expression in the endurance training group compared to the control group (P = 0.048) and in the endurance training+CGRP inhibition compared to the control group (P = 0.012). In addition, there was no significant relationship between AKT (PKB) and Nrf2 (r = −0.27, n = 28, P = 0.16).

Conclusion

Endurance training alone has been able to increase Nrf2 and AKT (PKB) mRNA levels in the hippocampal tissue, considering that endurance training had no significant effect on AKT and Nrf2 expression after adding to CGRP inhibition.

Chronic vitamin D3 supplementation alleviates cognition impairment via inhibition of oxidative stress regulated by PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 in APP/PS1 transgenic mice

Oxidative stress plays essential role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, and vitamin D₃ (VD₃) is a nutrient with neuroprotective and antioxidant activities. The present study aimed to confirm the neuroprotective effect and the ameliorative effect of cortical oxidative stress of VD₃ in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. APP/PS1 mice were treated with VD₃ for 20 weeks. After treatment, Morris Water Maze test was used to evaluate cognitive level. Western blotting was used to determine APP, p-tau, tau and PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway-related protein expression levels. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to determine the levels of β amyloid peptide (Aβ) deposition. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the 25(OH)D₃ levels and oxidative stress status. Our results showed that treatment with VD₃ ameliorated behavioral deficits of APP/PS1 mice. In addition, the administration of VD₃ significantly increased the cortical 25(OH)D₃ levels, while reducing the levels of cortical Aβ deposition and decreasing the expression levels of cortical APP, tau and p-tau in APP/PS1 mice. Moreover, VD₃ protected the cortex against oxidative stress by enhancing the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione and total antioxidant capacity, and downregulating the malondialdehyde levels. Furthermore, VD₃ clearly activated the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway, thereby elevating the expression levels of HO1 and NQO1. We concluded that VD₃ improved cognitive function and cortical Alzheimer-like pathology of APP/PS1 mice, which may be related to the inhibition of oxidative stress via activation the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway.

Inhibition of Connexin 43 reverses ox-LDL-mediated inhibition of autophagy in VSMC by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

Background

Oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) may induce foam cell formation from the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) by inhibiting VSMC autophagy. This process accelerates the formation of atherosclerosis (AS). Connexin 43 (Cx43), which is the most widely distributed connexin in VSMC is associated with autophagy. However, the mechanism of action and the involvement of Cx43 in ox-LDL-inhibited VSMC autophagy remain unclear.

Methods

The primary VSMC were obtained and identified, before primary VSMC were pretreated with an inhibitor (Cx43-specific inhibitor Gap26 and PI3K inhibitor LY294002) and stimulated with ox-LDL.

Results

Ox-LDL not only inhibited autophagy in VSMC via downregulation of autophagy-related proteins (such as Beclin 1, LC3B, p62), but also increased Cx43 protein levels. Then we added Gap26 to VSMC in the ox-LDL+Gap26 group, in which autophagy-related proteins were increased and the accumulation of lipid droplets was reduced. These result suggested that an enhanced level of autophagy and an alleviation of lipid accumulation might be caused by inhibiting Cx43 in VSMC. The phosphorylation levels of PI3K, AKT, mTOR were increased by ox-LDL, thus down-regulating autophagy-related proteins. However, this situation was partially reversed by the Gap26. Moreover, Cx43 expression were decreased by LY294002 in ox-LDL-induced VSMCs.

Conclusion

Inhibiting Cx43 may activate VSMC autophagy to inhibit foam cell formation by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

GLP-1 mimetics and cognition

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of antidiabetic drugs that improve the glycaemia via several molecular pathways. Recent evidence suggest that they also have additional effects modulating pathophysiologic pathways included in cognitive disorders. Since some forms of cognitive dysfunction such as Alzheimer's disease are more common among diabetic patients than in the normal population, antidiabetic drugs that have neuroprotective effects affording protection for cognitive disorders would be of benefit. Therefore, we reviewed the pharmacologic effects of GLP-1 analogues and found that they may have the additional benefit of improving cognitive performance via at least eight molecular mechanisms.

α-Lipoic acid alleviates ferroptosis in the MPP+ -induced PC12 cells via activating the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a typical neurodegenerative disease. α-Lipoic acid (α-LA) can reduce the incidence of neuropathy. The present study explored the role and mechanism of α-LA in 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP⁺ )-induced cell model of PD. The PD model was induced via treating PC12 cells with MPP⁺  at different concentrations. MPP⁺  and α-LA effects on PC12 cells were assessed from cell viability and ferroptosis. Cell viability was detected using the cell counting kit-8 assay. Malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), iron, reactive xygen species (ROS), and glutathione (GSH) concentrations, and ferroptosis-related protein SLC7A11 and GPx4 expressions were used for ferroptosis evaluation. p-PI3K, p-Akt, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein levels were detected. The PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway inhibitors were applied to verify the role of the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway in α-LA protection against MPP⁺ -induced decreased cell viability and ferroptosis. MPP⁺ -reduced cell viability and induced ferroptosis as presented by increased MDA, 4-HNE, iron, and ROS concentrations, and reduced levels of GSH and ferroptosis marker proteins (SLC7A11 and GPx4). α-LA attenuated MPP⁺ -induced cell viability decline and ferroptosis. The PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway was activated after α-LA treatment. Inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway weakened the protection of α-LA against MPP⁺  treatment. We highlighted that α-LA alleviated MPP⁺ -induced cell viability decrease and ferroptosis in PC12 cells via activating the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway.