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Abdel-Reheim MA, Ali ME, Gaafar AGA, Ashour AA. Quillaja saponin mitigates methotrexate-provoked renal injury; insight into Nrf-2/Keap-1 pathway modulation with suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation. J Pharm Health Care Sci 2024; 10:17. [PMID: 38594773 PMCID: PMC11003044 DOI: 10.1186/s40780-024-00330-4] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) is an antineoplastic/immunosuppressive drug, whose clinical use is impeded owing to its serious adverse effects; one of which is acute kidney injury (AKI). Most of MTX complications emerged from the provoked pro-oxidant-, pro-inflammatory- and pro-apoptotic effects. Quillaja saponaria bark saponin (QBS) is a bioactive triterpene that has been traditionally used as an antitussive, anti-inflammatory supplement, and to boost the immune system due to its potent antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the protective/therapeutic potential of QBS against AKI has not been previously evaluated. This study aimed to assess the modulatory effect of QBS on MTX-induced reno-toxicity. METHODS Thirty-two male rats were divided into 4-groups. Control rats received oral saline (group-I). In group-II, rats administered QBS orally for 10-days. In group-III, rats were injected with single i.p. MTX (20 mg/kg) on day-5. Rats in group-IV received QBS and MTX. Serum BUN/creatinine levels were measured, as kidney-damage-indicating biomarkers. Renal malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced-glutathione (GSH) and nitric-oxide (NOx) were determined, as oxidative-stress indices. Renal expression of TNF-α protein and Nrf-2/Keap-1 mRNAs were evaluated as regulators of inflammation. Renal Bcl-2/cleaved caspase-3 immunoreactivities were evaluated as apoptosis indicators. RESULTS Exaggerated kidney injury upon MTX treatment was evidenced histologically and biochemically. QBS attenuated MTX-mediated renal degeneration, oxidant-burden enhancement, excessive inflammation, and proapoptotic induction. Histopathological analysis further confirmed the reno-protective microenvironment rendered by QBS. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our results suggest the prophylactic and/or therapeutic effects of QBS in treating MTX-induced AKI. Such reno-protection is most-likely mediated via Nrf-2 induction that interferes with oxidant load, inflammatory pathways, and proapoptotic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, 11961, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Merhan E Ali
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Gaafar A Gaafar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Amine Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, El-Nasr Road, P.O. 11751, Cairo, Egypt.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University - Kantara Branch, Ismailia, 41636, Egypt.
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Shi M, Pei H, Sun L, Chen W, Zong Y, Zhao Y, Du R, He Z. Optimization of the Flavonoid Extraction Process from the Stem and Leaves of Epimedium Brevicornum and Its Effects on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Renal Injury. Molecules 2023; 29:207. [PMID: 38202790 PMCID: PMC10780727 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010207] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a broad-spectrum alkylated antitumor drug. It is clinically used in the treatment of a variety of cancers, and renal toxicity is one of the adverse reactions after long-term or repeated use, which not only limits the therapeutic effect of CTX, but also increases the probability of kidney lesions. The total flavonoids of Epimedium stem and leaf (EBF) and Icariin (ICA) are the main medicinal components of Epimedium, and ICA is one of the main active substances in EBF. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that EBF has a variety of biological activities such as improving osteoporosis, promoting cell proliferation, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, etc. However, few studies have been conducted on the nephrotoxicity caused by optimized CTX extraction, and protein-ligand binding has not been involved. This research, through the response surface optimization extraction of EBF, obtained the best extraction conditions: ethanol concentration was 60%, solid-liquid ratio of 25:1, ultrasonic time was about 25 min. Combined with mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, EBF contained ICA, ichopidin A, ichopidin B, ichopidin C, and other components. In this study, we adopted a computational chemistry method called molecular docking, and the results show that Icariin was well bound to the antioxidant target proteins KEAP1 and NRF2, and the anti-inflammatory target proteins COX-2 and NF-κB, with free binding energies of -9.8 kcal/mol, -11.0 kcal/mol, -10.0 kcal/mol, and -8.1 kcal/mol, respectively. To study the protective effect of EBF on the nephrotoxicity of CTX, 40 male Kunming mice (weight 18 ± 22) were injected with CTX (80 mg/kg) for 7 days to establish the nephrotoxicity model and were treated with EBF (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) for 8 days by gavage. After CTX administration, MDA, BUN, Cre, and IL-6 levels in serum increased, MDA increased in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 increased in liver, and IL-6 increased in spleen and was significant ((p < 0.05 or (p < 0.01)). Histopathological observation showed that renal cortex glomerular atrophy necrosis, medullary inflammatory cell infiltration, and other lesions. After administration of EBF, CTX-induced increase in serum level of related indexes was reduced, and MDA in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 in liver, and IL-6 in spleen were increased. At the same time, histopathological findings showed that the necrosis of medullary and corticorenal tubular epithelium was relieved at EBF (50 mg/kg) dose compared with the CTX group, and the glomerular tubular necrosis gradually became normal at EBF (100 mg/kg) dose. Western blot analysis of Keap1 and Nrf2 protein expression in kidney tissue showed that compared with model CTX group, the drug administration group could alleviate the high expression of Keap1 protein and low expression of Nrf2 protein in kidney tissue. Conclusion: After the optimal extraction of total flavonoids from the stems and leaves of Epimedium, the molecular docking technique combined with animal experiments suggested that the effective component of the total flavonoids of Epimedium might activate the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway after treatment to reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress of kidney tissue, so as to reduce kidney damage and improve kidney function. Therefore, EBF may become a new natural protective agent for CTX chemotherapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiling Shi
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Hongyan Pei
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Li Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Weijia Chen
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Ying Zong
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Yan Zhao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
- Engineering Research Center for Efficient Breeding and Product Development of Sika Deer, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Rui Du
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
- Engineering Research Center for Efficient Breeding and Product Development of Sika Deer, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Zhongmei He
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (M.S.); (H.P.); (L.S.); (W.C.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.D.)
- Engineering Research Center for Efficient Breeding and Product Development of Sika Deer, Changchun 130118, China
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Zhao LL, Jayeoye TJ, Ashaolu TJ, Olatunji OJ. Pinostrobin, a dietary bioflavonoid exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic protective effects against methotrexate-induced ovarian toxicity in rats. Tissue Cell 2023; 85:102254. [PMID: 37866152 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102254] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the protective activities of pinostrobin (PIN) against methotrexate (MTX)-induced ovarian toxicity. Female rats were administered with PIN (50 mg/kg) for 4 weeks, while MTX was administered from weeks 2-4 of PIN treatment. Serum hormonal profiles, ovarian oxidative stress, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers as well as ovarian histomorphometry were evaluated. MTX administration elicited profound deficit in serum progesterone and estrogen (E2) levels, while luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were significantly increased. Additionally, MTX administration was associated with significant increases in ovarian malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, NF-кB, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS and caspase-3 activity, as well as notable reduction in the activities of glutathione peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase as well as the level of glutathione. Whereas, treatment with PIN significantly decreased serum levels of FSH and LH, as well as ovarian levels of NO, MDA, caspase 3, NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and iNOS. PIN also significantly upregulated GSH, GPx, CAT and SOD in the ovarian tissues as well as increased serum E2 and progesterone levels compared to the MTX group. Furthermore, PIN significantly restored altered ovarian histoarchitecture in the treated group. These findings suggests that PIN exerts protective effects against MTX-triggered ovarian damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ling Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, China
| | - Titilope John Jayeoye
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Mohtadi S, Shariati S, Mansouri E, Khodayar MJ. Nephroprotective effect of diosmin against sodium arsenite-induced renal toxicity is mediated via attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation in mice. Pestic Biochem Physiol 2023; 197:105652. [PMID: 38072527 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105652] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic compounds, which are used in different industries like pesticide manufacturing, cause severe toxic effects in almost all organs, including the kidneys. Since the primary route of exposure to arsenic is through drinking water, and millions of people worldwide are exposed to unsafe levels of arsenic that can pose a threat to their health, this research was performed to investigate the nephroprotective effects of Diosmin (Dios), a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, against nephrotoxicity induced by sodium arsenite (SA). To induce nephrotoxicity, SA (10 mg/kg, oral gavage) was administered to mice for 30 days. Dios (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, oral gavage) was given to mice for 30 days prior to SA administration. After the study was completed, animals were euthanized and blood and kidney samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological assessments. Results showed that SA-treated mice significantly increased the blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels in the serum. This increase was associated with significant kidney tissue damage in SA-treated mice, which was confirmed by histopathological studies. Furthermore, SA enhanced the amounts of renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and decreased total thiol reserves, as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. Also, in the SA-exposed group, an increase in the levels of kidney inflammatory biomarkers, including nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha was observed. The western blot analysis indicated an elevation in the protein expression of kidney injury molecule-1 and nuclear factor-kappa B in SA-treated mice. However, pretreatment with Dios ameliorated the SA-related renal damage in mice. Our findings suggest that Dios can protect the kidneys against the nephrotoxic effects of SA by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokooh Mohtadi
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Shariati
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Esrafil Mansouri
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Khodayar
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Lu D, Yang Y, Du Y, Zhang L, Yang Y, Tibenda JJ, Nan Y, Yuan L. The Potential of Glycyrrhiza from "Medicine Food Homology" in the Fight against Digestive System Tumors. Molecules 2023; 28:7719. [PMID: 38067451 PMCID: PMC10708138 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237719] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycyrrhiza has a long history of applications and a wide range of pharmacological effects. It is known as the "king of all herbs". Glycyrrhiza is effective in clearing heat, detoxifying, relieving cough, and tonifying qi and has good bioactivity in multiple inflammatory, immune, and tumor diseases. This review aims to summarize the origin, distribution, and anti-digestive system tumor mechanism of glycyrrhiza and its homologous applications in medicine and food. The active compounds include triterpenoids, flavonoids, and coumarins, which are widely used in clinical treatments, disease prevention, and daily foods because of their "enhancement of efficacy" and "reduction of toxicity" against digestive system tumors. This paper reviews the use of glycyrrhiza in digestive system tumors and provides an outlook on future research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doudou Lu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yating Yang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yuhua Du
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Yi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Joanna Japhet Tibenda
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
| | - Yi Nan
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China;
| | - Ling Yuan
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.D.); (J.J.T.)
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Nouioura G, Kettani T, Tourabi M, Elousrouti LT, Al kamaly O, Alshawwa SZ, Shahat AA, Alhalmi A, Lyoussi B, Derwich E. The Protective Potential of Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss. on Paracetamol-Induced Hepatio-Renal Toxicity and Antiproteinuric Effect: A Biochemical, Hematological, and Histopathological Study. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1814. [PMID: 37893532 PMCID: PMC10608762 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101814] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Paracetamol overdose is a significant global issue due to its widespread use, which can lead to a lack of awareness regarding its potential side effects. Paracetamol can harm the liver, possibly resulting in liver failure. Conversely, this study employed extracts from Petroselinum crispum (PC), known for its rich content of bioactive compounds, with demonstrated antioxidant properties shown in previous research as well as protective effects against various diseases. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects of Petroselinum crispum on altered hematological and biochemical parameters in the blood of rats exposed to paracetamol. Materials and Methods: The study involved twenty Wistar rats divided into four groups. Different groups of male rats were administered PC extract at 200 mg/kg body weight daily for 15 days, along with a standard reference dose of paracetamol at 200 mg/kg. The study assessed hepatoprotection capacity by analyzing liver enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), bilirubin, albumin, and lipid profiles. Renal safety was evaluated through creatinine, urea, uric acid, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and total protein. Additionally, histopathological examinations of the liver and kidneys were conducted. Results: Following Paracetamol overdose, there were reductions in hemoglobin levels, serum total protein, albumin, and uric acid. Paracetamol overdose also elevated levels of several blood biomarkers, including creatinine, urea, nitrogen, ALT, AST, triglycerides, LDH activity, white blood cell count, and platelet count compared to the control group. However, using an ethanolic extract of Petroselinum crispum significantly mitigated the severity of these alterations and the extent of the effect correlated with the dose administered. Parsley extract helped prevent proteinuria and low hemoglobin, which are common side effects of Paracetamol. Conclusions: Therefore, parsley may hold promise in managing liver and kidney conditions-particularly in addressing proteinuria. Ultimately, these results may have implications for human health by potentially mitigating paracetamol-induced renal, hepatic, and hematological toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghizlane Nouioura
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Faculty of Sciences Dhar El-Mehraz, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30000, Morocco; (M.T.); (B.L.); (E.D.)
| | - Tayeb Kettani
- Saâda Laboratory of Medical Analysis, Fez 30000, Morocco;
| | - Meryem Tourabi
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Faculty of Sciences Dhar El-Mehraz, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30000, Morocco; (M.T.); (B.L.); (E.D.)
| | | | - Omkulthom Al kamaly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.k.); (S.Z.A.)
| | - Samar Zuhair Alshawwa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (O.A.k.); (S.Z.A.)
| | - Abdelaaty A. Shahat
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulsalam Alhalmi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Badiaa Lyoussi
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Faculty of Sciences Dhar El-Mehraz, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30000, Morocco; (M.T.); (B.L.); (E.D.)
| | - Elhoussine Derwich
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ), Faculty of Sciences Dhar El-Mehraz, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30000, Morocco; (M.T.); (B.L.); (E.D.)
- Unity of GC/MS and GC, City of Innovation, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30000, Morocco
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Katturajan R, Evan Prince S. Zinc and L-carnitine combination with or without methotrexate prevents intestinal toxicity during arthritis treatment via Nrf2/Sirt1/Foxo3 pathways: an In vivo and molecular docking approach. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:2599-2614. [PMID: 37405586 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01280-3] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is an antifolate that is inescapable and widely used to treat autoimmune diseases and is the gold standard medicine for the arthritic condition. Despite its importance, it is more prone to gastrointestinal toxicity, which is most common in arthritis patients during MTX treatment. Combination therapies are required to ensure MTX's antiarthritic activity while providing gastrointestinal protection. Zinc (Zn) and L-carnitine (Lc) are well-known potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory supplements with promising results in pre-clinical studies. Arthritis was induced in Wistar rat's ankles with Freund's adjuvant and treated with either MTX (2.5 mg/kg b.w per week for two weeks) or Zn (18 mg/kg b.w. per day) Lc (200 mg/kg b.w. per day) individually or in combination (MTX + Zn Lc). The antiarthritic effects were evaluated by body weight, paw volume, ankle tissue, and joint histopathology. At the same time, anti-toxicity/gastrointestinal protective activity was examined by tissue oxidative stress markers, antioxidants, mitochondrial function, inflammatory mediators, and antioxidant signaling proteins and their binding mechanism. Repercussions of MTX intoxication induced upregulation of oxidative stress markers, antioxidant depletion, ATP depletion, decreased expression of Nrf2/Sirt1/Foxo3, and the overexpression of inflammatory mediators attenuated by co-treatment with Zn Lc. Zn Lc markedly mitigated MTX-instigated intestinal injury by activating antioxidant signaling mechanisms Nrf2/Sirt1/Foxo3 signaling and tissue architectural anomalies and exhibited an enhanced antiarthritic effect. In conclusion, we report that Zn Lc and MTX combination could presumably protect the intestine from low-dose MTX which managed arthritis but induced severe intestinal damage with increased inflammation and downregulated Nrf2/Sirt1/Foxo3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Katturajan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sabina Evan Prince
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Wang R, An Y, Xu Y, Li C, Wang Q, Zou Y, Wang G. Exploring anti-acute kidney injury mechanism of Dahuang-Gancao decoction by network pharmacology and experimental validation. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:10072-10088. [PMID: 37724901 PMCID: PMC10599760 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205033] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Dahuang-Gancao Decoction (DHGC) on acute kidney injury (AKI). Network pharmacology was utilized to analyze the key targets of DHGC against AKI. These targets were used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, which was analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment to predict the mechanism of action. Based on the network pharmacological analysis, Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) was identified as a key target, and apoptosis was suggested as a mechanism of DHGC for AKI treatment. Subsequently, an AKI mouse model was induced using lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the study demonstrated that DHGC gradient intervention significantly reduced plasma urea and creatinine levels in AKI mice, ameliorated renal pathological changes, reduced apoptosis, and lowered serum inflammatory factors. The mechanism of DHGC's anti-AKI effect may lie in the activation of the SIRT3/NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway, which plays an antiapoptotic role in renal cells. In summary, DHGC improved LPS-induced AKI in mice by activating the SIRT3/NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway. These findings shed light on the potential clinical application of DHGC for the treatment of nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Yi An
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Yifang Xu
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Chengyin Li
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Qiyuan Wang
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Yinshui Zou
- Department of Oncology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, P.R. China
| | - Guangzhi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, P.R. China
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Wei X, Li N, Wu X, Cao G, Qiao H, Wang J, Hao R. The preventive effect of Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute colitis in mice by modulating gut microbial communities. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 239:124199. [PMID: 36972824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Acute colitis is characterised by an unpredictable onset and causes intestinal flora imbalance together with microbial migration, which leads to complex parenteral diseases. Dexamethasone, a classic drug, has side effects, so it is necessary to use natural products without side effects to prevent enteritis. Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide (GPS) is an α-d-pyranoid polysaccharide with anti-inflammatory effects; however, its anti-inflammatory mechanism in the colon remains unknown. This study investigated whether GPS reduces the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in acute colitis. The results revealed that GPS attenuated the upregulation of tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 in the serum and colon tissues and significantly reduced the malondialdehyde content in colon tissues. In addition, the 400 mg/kg GPS group showed higher relative expressions of occludin, claudin-1, and zona occludens-1 in colon tissues and lower concentrations of diamine oxidase, D-lactate, and endotoxin in the serum than the LPS group did, indicating that GPS improved the physical and chemical barrier functions of colon tissues. GPS increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, Bacteroides, and Akkermansia, whereas pathogenic bacteria, such as Oscillospira and Ruminococcus were inhibited. Our findings indicate that GPS can effectively prevent LPS-induced acute colitis and exert beneficial effects on the intestinal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wei
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong 030012, China
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong 030012, China
| | - Guidong Cao
- Shanxi Ruixiang Bio Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Taiyuan 030032, China
| | - Hongping Qiao
- College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Taiyuan Normal University, Jinzhong 030012, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, China
| | - Ruirong Hao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, China.
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10
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Parthasarathy M, Prince SE. Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees Alleviates Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Albino Rats. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051173. [PMID: 37240818 DOI: 10.3390/life13051173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Andrographis paniculata is a herbal plant used in traditional medicinal approaches to treat various ailments and diseases. Methotrexate (MTX) is a clinically used immunosuppressant and anticancer drug. One of the increasing concerns with MTX use is liver toxicity. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential effect of aqueous leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata against methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity. Wistar albino rats were grouped into five groups, and the drugs were administered. MTX (20 mg/kg b.w.) was intraperitoneally injected into rats on the ninth day alone. Aqueous leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata (500 mg/kg b.w./day) was orally administered for 10 days. We confirmed the beneficial effect of aqueous extracts of Andrographis paniculata on restoring the hepatic enzyme markers, lipid profile, antioxidant level, anti-inflammatory marker (IL-10), anti-apoptosis (bcl-2), significant suppression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, and IL-6), apoptosis marker (caspase 3) and cellular tissue damage caused by MTX. Overall, we revealed that Andrographis paniculata reduces critical aspects of oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, and apoptosis, thus protecting against methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Parthasarathy
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| | - Sabina Evan Prince
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
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11
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Di Martino V, Verhoeven DW, Verhoeven F, Aubin F, Avouac J, Vuitton L, Lioté F, Thévenot T, Wendling D. Busting the myth of methotrexate chronic hepatotoxicity. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:96-110. [PMID: 36564450 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00883-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate is a key component of the treatment of inflammatory rheumatic diseases and the mainstay of therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Hepatotoxicity has long been a concern for prescribers envisaging long-term treatment with methotrexate for their patients. However, the putative liver toxicity of methotrexate should be evaluated in the context of advances in our knowledge of the pathogenesis and natural history of liver disease, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Notably, patients with NAFLD are at increased risk for methotrexate hepatotoxicity, and methotrexate can worsen the course of NAFLD. Understanding the mechanisms of acute hepatotoxicity can facilitate the interpretation of elevated concentrations of liver enzymes in this context. Liver fibrosis and the mechanisms of fibrogenesis also need to be considered in relation to chronic exposure to methotrexate. A number of non-invasive tests for liver fibrosis are available for use in patients with rheumatic disease, in addition to liver biopsy, which can be appropriate for particular individuals. On the basis of the available evidence, practical suggestions for pretreatment screening and long-term monitoring of methotrexate therapy can be made for patients who have (or are at risk for) chronic liver disease.
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12
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AbdelKader G, Abdelaziz EZ, Hassan R, Greish SM, Abogresha NM, Sultan BO, Yousef EM, Morsi S. Protective Effects of Crocin Against Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Male Albino Rats: Histological, Immunohistochemical, and Biochemical Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e34468. [PMID: 36874671 PMCID: PMC9981239 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34468] [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] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the many known adverse effects of methotrexate (MTX), hepatotoxicity stands out as a major drawback that limits its therapeutic applicability. There is growing evidence that crocin has antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects. This study's aim is to evaluate the potential protective effect of crocin against MTX-induced liver damage in rats using biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. METHODS Twenty-four adult male albino rats were split into four groups at random (six rats/group) as follows: normal control (saline, intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections), crocin-treated (100 mg/kg daily for 14 days, i.p.), MTX-treated (20 mg/kg single i.p. injection on day 15), and crocin/MTX-treated groups (crocin 100 mg/kg/day for 14 days, i.p. + MTX 20 mg/kg single i.p. injection on day 15). On day 16 of the experiment, blood and tissue specimens were used to assess the liver functions, oxidative stress markers, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), caspase-3, BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) expression. RESULTS The results of the current research revealed the protective actions of crocin against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. Our results showed that crocin possesses antioxidants (decrease malondialdehyde (MDA), increase glutathione (GSH) levels, and enhance catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymatic activity), anti-fibrotic (decrease TGF-β1), and anti-apoptotic (decrease BAX and caspase-3 expression while increase BCL-2) actions in liver. Moreover, crocin administration along with MTX restores the normal histological structure of hepatic tissues. CONCLUSION The data presented in the current study using an in vivo animal model support the notion that crocin should be further studied in humans to assess its potential hepatoprotective effects against MTX-induced liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada AbdelKader
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
| | - Eman Z Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
| | - Ranya Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
| | - Sahar M Greish
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, EGY
| | - Noha M Abogresha
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
| | - Basma O Sultan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
| | - Einas M Yousef
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shibin El Kom, EGY
| | - Shereen Morsi
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EGY
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13
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Tuli HS, Garg VK, Mehta JK, Kaur G, Mohapatra RK, Dhama K, Sak K, Kumar A, Varol M, Aggarwal D, Anand U, Kaur J, Gillan R, Sethi G, Bishayee A. Licorice ( Glycyrrhiza glabra L.)-Derived Phytochemicals Target Multiple Signaling Pathways to Confer Oncopreventive and Oncotherapeutic Effects. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:1419-1448. [PMID: 36474507 PMCID: PMC9719702 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s366630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a highly lethal disease, and its incidence has rapidly increased worldwide over the past few decades. Although chemotherapeutics and surgery are widely used in clinical settings, they are often insufficient to provide the cure for cancer patients. Hence, more effective treatment options are highly needed. Although licorice has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times, the knowledge about molecular mechanisms behind its diverse bioactivities is still rather new. In this review article, different anticancer properties (antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, antimetastatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects) of various bioactive constituents of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) are thoroughly described. Multiple licorice constituents have been shown to bind to and inhibit the activities of various cellular targets, including B-cell lymphoma 2, cyclin-dependent kinase 2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, mammalian target of rapamycin, nuclear factor-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, vascular endothelial growth factor, and matrix metalloproteinase-3, resulting in reduced carcinogenesis in several in vitro and in vivo models with no evident toxicity. Emerging evidence is bringing forth licorice as an anticancer agent as well as bottlenecks in its potential clinical application. It is expected that overcoming toxicity-related obstacles by using novel nanotechnological methods might importantly facilitate the use of anticancer properties of licorice-derived phytochemicals in the future. Therefore, anticancer studies with licorice components must be continued. Overall, licorice could be a natural alternative to the present medication for eradicating new emergent illnesses while having just minor side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Garg
- Department of Medical Lab Technology, University Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Jinit K Mehta
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ginpreet Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ranjan K Mohapatra
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Mehmet Varol
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Diwakar Aggarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Jagjit Kaur
- Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ross Gillan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
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14
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Al-Abkal F, Abdel-Wahab BA, El-Kareem HFA, Moustafa YM, Khodeer DM. Protective Effect of Pycnogenol against Methotrexate-Induced Hepatic, Renal, and Cardiac Toxicity: An In Vivo Study. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060674. [PMID: 35745592 PMCID: PMC9229807 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapies for various types of cancer, including leukemia, breast cancer, hepatocarcinoma, and gastric cancers. However, the efficacy of MTX is frequently limited by serious side effects. Several studies have reported that the cytotoxic effect of MTX is not limited to cancer cells but can also affect normal tissues, leading to prospective damage to many organs. In the present study, we extensively investigated the molecular and microscopic basis of MTX-induced toxicity in different organs (liver, kidney, and heart) and explored the possible protective effect of pycnogenol, a polyphenolic component extracted from the bark of P. pinaster, to attenuate these effects. Biochemical analysis revealed that administration of MTX significantly reduced the function of the liver, kidney, and heart. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis indicated that MTX treatment caused damage to tissues of different organs. Interestingly, administration of pycnogenol (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the deterioration effects of MTX on different organs in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated by biochemical and histological analysis. Our results reveal that pycnogenol successfully ameliorated oxidative damage and reduced toxicity, inflammatory response, and histological markers induced by methotrexate treatment. Taken together, this study provides solid evidence for the pharmacological application of pycnogenol to attenuate damage to different organs induced by MTX treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten Al-Abkal
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (F.A.-A.); (Y.M.M.)
| | - Basel A. Abdel-Wahab
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 7111, Egypt;
| | - Hanaa F. Abd El-Kareem
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbasseya, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Yasser M. Moustafa
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (F.A.-A.); (Y.M.M.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Dina M. Khodeer
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (F.A.-A.); (Y.M.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +20-100-93345855
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15
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Katturajan R, S V, Rasool M, Evan Prince S. Molecular toxicity of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis treatment: A novel perspective and therapeutic implications. Toxicology 2021; 461:152909. [PMID: 34453959 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory systematic complication which is a chronic disorder that severely affects bones and joints and results in the quality of life impairment. Methotrexate (MTX), an FDA-approved drug has maintained the standard of care for treating patients affected with RA. The mechanism of MTX includes the inhibition of purine and pyrimidine synthesis, suppression of polyamine accumulation, promotion of adenosine release, adhesion of the inflammatory molecules, and controlling of cytokine cascade in RA. The recommended dose for RA patients is 5-25 mg of MTX per week, depending on the severity of the disease but MTX has proven to be cytotoxic with side effects affecting various tissues when treating RA patients even with low doses over a prolonged period of time. The mechanism of such toxicity is not entirely understood. This review strives to understand it by correlating the different pathways, including MTX in folate metabolism, Sirt1/Nrf2/γ-gcs, and γ-gcs/CaSR-TNF-α/NF-kB signaling. In addition to this, the importance of targeted therapy combination with MTX on RA treatment and combinations approved from the clinical trials are also briefly discussed. Overall, this review elucidates the various MTX molecular mechanisms and toxicity at the molecular level, the limitations, and the scope for future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Katturajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vijayalakshmi S
- Department of English, School of Social Sciences and Languages, VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahabookhan Rasool
- Immunopathology Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Sabina Evan Prince
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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16
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Heidari S, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. The genus Glycyrrhiza (Fabaceae family) and its active constituents as protective agents against natural or chemical toxicities. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6552-6571. [PMID: 34414608 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Licorice is the dried roots and rhizomes of various species of the genus Glycyrrhiza (Fabaceae) that have been used in folk medicine from ancient times. Many important research projects have established several beneficial effects for this medicinal herb, including antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiprotozoal, antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective. Licorice contains important bioactive components, such as glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic, glycyrrhizinic acid), liquiritigenin, liquiritin, and glycyrrhetinic acid. The protective effects of licorice and its main chemical components against toxins and toxicants in several organs including the brain, heart, liver, kidney, and lung have been shown. In this comprehensive review article, the protective effects of these constituents against natural, industrial, environmental, and chemical toxicities with attention on the cellular and molecular mechanism are introduced. Also, it has been revealed that this plant and its main compounds can inhibit the toxicity of different toxins by the antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties as well as the modulation of Inhibitor of kappaB kinase (IKK), Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase1/2 (ERK1/2), p38, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways. More high-quality investigations in both experimental and clinical studies need to firmly establish the efficacy of licorice and its main constituents against toxic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaye Heidari
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.,Toxicology and Addiction Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Soghra Mehri
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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17
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Sharifi-Rad J, Quispe C, Herrera-Bravo J, Belén LH, Kaur R, Kregiel D, Uprety Y, Beyatli A, Yeskaliyeva B, Kırkın C, Özçelik B, Sen S, Acharya K, Sharopov F, Cruz-Martins N, Kumar M, Razis AFA, Sunusi U, Kamal RM, Shaheen S, Suleria HAR. Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2021; 2021:7571132. [PMID: 34349875 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7571132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Glycyrrhiza genus, generally well-known as licorice, is broadly used for food and medicinal purposes around the globe. The genus encompasses a rich pool of bioactive molecules including triterpene saponins (e.g., glycyrrhizin) and flavonoids (e.g., liquiritigenin, liquiritin). This genus is being increasingly exploited for its biological effects such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic activities. The species Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and the compound glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) have been studied immensely for their effect on humans. The efficacy of the compound has been reported to be significantly higher on viral hepatitis and immune deficiency syndrome. This review provides up-to-date data on the most widely investigated Glycyrrhiza species for food and medicinal purposes, with special emphasis on secondary metabolites' composition and bioactive effects.
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18
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Ezhilarasan D. Hepatotoxic potentials of methotrexate: Understanding the possible toxicological molecular mechanisms. Toxicology 2021; 458:152840. [PMID: 34175381 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most effective and widely used drugs in the management of autoimmune and dermatological diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis patients who are under long term MTX-therapy are at high risk of developing a liver injury. Accumulation of intracellular MTX-polyglutamate (MTX-PG), a metabolite of MTX triggers oxidative stress, inflammation, steatosis, fibrosis, and apoptosis in hepatocytes. MTX-PG causes oxidative stress in the liver by inducing lipid peroxidation thereby releasing reactive oxygen species and suppressing antioxidant response elements. MTX-PG induces several pro-inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor kappa B and interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL- β1, IL-12. MTX-PG depletes hepatic folate level and decreases RNA and DNA synthesis leading to hepatocyte death. MTX-PG inhibits 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide transformylase enzyme and thereby causes accumulation of intracellular adenosine, which causes activation of hepatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix accumulation and hepatic fibrosis. MTX-PG induces hepatocytes apoptosis by activation of caspase 3 via the intrinsic pathway. Clinically, aggravation of underlying fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis with fibrosis seems to be an important mechanism of liver injury in MTX-treated RA patients. Therefore, there is a need for monitoring liver injury in RA, psoriatic and cancer patients with NAFLD and fibrosis risk factors during MTX treatment. This review summarizes the possible molecular mechanism of MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. It may pave the way for early detection of liver injury and develop novel strategies for treating MTX mediated hepatotoxicity.
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Masood S, Rehman AU, Bashir S, El Shazly M, Imran M, Khalil P, Ifthikar F, Jaffar HM, Khursheed T. Investigation of the anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of wheat bread supplemented with onion peel extract and onion powder in diabetic rats. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2021; 20:485-495. [PMID: 34222073 PMCID: PMC8212200 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-021-00770-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM Onion is one of the commonly cultivated and consumed vegetables rich in nutrients and phytochemicals. Various nutraceuticals are found in the outer fleshy layers and dry peel of onion which usually is treated as a common biowaste. Diabetes mellitus is a leading non communicable disease causing hyperglycemia and increased production of free radicals that potentially disrupts antioxidant enzymatic activity. Considering global consumption of wheat, the present study was designed to evaluate the anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of wheat bread supplemented with onion peel extract (OPE) or onion powder (OP) on diabetic rats. METHODS In this study, ethanolic extract of onion peel and onion bulb were prepared separately. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups (n = 7). Different regimens of supplemented wheat bread (OPE (1% and 3%) and OP (5% and 7%)) were given to diabetic rats for eight weeks, plain bread was used as the control. Blood glucose level, body weight and activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GSH and MDA in the liver and kidney tissues were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version (25) and Dunnett's multiple comparison test. RESULTS Bread supplemented with 1% and 3% onion peel extract and 7% onion powder significantly reduced blood glucose levels and MDA in the treated rats compared with the control group diabetic rats. Body weight of diabetic rats was reduced for control group, while onion supplemented diet improved the body weight of treated rats. Onion supplementation also brought significant improvement in antioxidant enzyme activities among the treated diabetic rats. CONCLUSION These findings suggested that onion supplementation is effective in lowering blood glucose and could potentially aid in protecting organs from oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Masood
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Attiq ur Rehman
- Horticulture Technologies, Production Systems Unit, Natural Resources Institute (Luke), Toivonlinnantie 518, FI-21500 Piikkiö, Finland
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shahid Bashir
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed El Shazly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, African Union Organization Street, Cairo, Abbassia 11566 Egypt
| | - Muhammad Imran
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Palwasha Khalil
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Faiza Ifthikar
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hafiza Madiha Jaffar
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tara Khursheed
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences (UIDNS), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
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20
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Abd-Elhakim YM, Moselhy AAA, Aldhahrani A, Beheiry RR, Mohamed WAM, Soliman MM, Saffaf BA, M. El Deib M. Protective Effect of Curcumin against Sodium Salicylate-Induced Oxidative Kidney Damage, Nuclear Factor-Kappa Dysregulation, and Apoptotic Consequences in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:826. [PMID: 34064189 PMCID: PMC8224369 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effect of sodium salicylates (SS), alone and in combination with curcumin (CUR), on kidney function and architecture in rats. Five rat groups were given 1 mL physiological saline/rat orally, 1 mL olive oil/rat orally, 50 mg CUR/kg bwt orally, 300 mg SS/kg bwt intraperitoneally, or CUR+SS for 15 days. The hematological indices, serum protein profile, serum electrolytes balance, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation of kidney tissues were assessed. The histopathological examination and immune expression of Caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa (NF-κB) were conducted. The findings showed that SS injection induced nephrotoxic activity, including increased serum urea, creatinine, and uric acid levels. It also caused apparent pathological alterations with increased Caspase-3 and NF-κB immuno-expression. In addition, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia, hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemia but not hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia were evident in SS-injected rats. Moreover, SS exposure increased serum α1 globulin, renal tissue malondialdehyde, and Caspase-3 levels but superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and Bcl-2 levels declined. Meanwhile, CUR significantly counteracted the SS harmful impacts on kidneys but SS+CUR co-administration induced an anemic condition. Overall, CUR has an evident protective role against SS-induced renal damage, but the disturbed hematological alterations should be carefully taken into consideration in their combined use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina M. Abd-Elhakim
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Attia A. A. Moselhy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Adil Aldhahrani
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, Turabah University College, Taif University, Turabah 21995, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Rasha R. Beheiry
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Wafaa A. M. Mohamed
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed Mohamed Soliman
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, Turabah University College, Taif University, Turabah 21995, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Bayan A. Saffaf
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University, City of the Future 41639, Egypt;
| | - Maha M. El Deib
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
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