The Protective Effects of Syringic Acid on Bisphenol A-Induced Neurotoxicity Possibly Through AMPK/PGC-1α/Fndc5 and CREB/BDNF Signaling Pathways

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, is commonly used to produce epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. Continuous exposure to BPA may contribute to the development of diseases in humans and seriously affect their health. Previous research suggests a significant relationship between the increased incidence of neurological diseases and the level of BPA in the living environment. Syringic acid (SA), a natural derivative of gallic acid, has recently considered much attention due to neuromodulator activity and its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of SA on oxidative stress, apoptosis, memory and locomotor disorders, and mitochondrial function, and to identify the mechanisms related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the brain of rats receiving high doses of BPA. For this purpose, male Wistar rats received BPA (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) and SA (50 mg/kg) for 21 days. The results showed that BPA exposure significantly altered the rats' neurobehavioral responses. Additionally, BPA, by increasing the level of ROS, and MDA level, increased the level of oxidative stress while reducing the level of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD, CAT, GPx, and mitochondrial GSH. The administration of BPA at 200 mg/kg significantly decreased the expression of ERRα, TFAM, irisin, PGC-1α, Bcl-2, and FNDC5, while it increased the expression of TrkB, cytochrome C, caspase 3, and Bax. Moreover, the Western blotting results showed that BPA increased the levels of P-AMPK, GSK3b, p-tau, and Aβ, while it decreased the levels of PKA, P-PKA, Akt, BDNF, CREB, P-CREB, and PI3K. Meanwhile, SA at 50 mg/kg reversed the behavioral, biochemical, and molecular changes induced by high doses of BPA. Overall, BPA could lead to the development of AD by affecting the mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway, as well as AMPK/PGC-1α/FNDC5 and CREB/BDNF/TrkB signaling pathways, and finally, by increasing the expression of tau and Aβ proteins. In conclusion, SA, as an antioxidant, significantly reduced the toxicity of BPA.

Adipose-Derived Stem Cells' Secretome Attenuates Lesion Size and Parasite Loading in Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania Major in Mice

Background

Stem cell-derived secretome (SE) released into the extracellular space contributes to tissue repair. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of isolated secretome (SE) from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) on Leishmania major (L. major) lesions in BALB/c mice.

Methods

This experimental study was conducted at Ahvaz University of Medical Sciences (Ahvaz, Iran) in 2021. Forty female BALB/c mice were infected with stationary phase promastigotes through intradermal injection in the bottom of their tail and randomly divided into four groups (n=10 per group). The mice were given SE (20 mg/mL), either alone or in combination with Glucantime (GC, 20 mg/mL/Kg), meglumine antimoniate (20 mg/mL/Kg) for the GC group, and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for the control group. After eight weeks, the lesion size, histopathology, the levels of Interleukin 10 (IL-10), and Interleukin 12 (IL-12) were assessed. For the comparison of values between groups, the parametric one-way ANOVA was used to assess statistical significance.

Results

At the end of the experiment, the mice that received SE had smaller lesions (4.56±0.83 mm versus 3.62±0.59 mm, P=0.092), lower levels of IL-10 (66.5±9.7 pg/mL versus 285.4±25.2 pg/mL, P<0.001), and higher levels of IL-12 (152.2±14.2 pg/mL versus 24.2±4.4 pg/mL, P<0.001) than the control. Histopathology findings revealed that mice treated with SE had a lower parasite burden in lesions and spleen than the control group.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrated that ADSC-derived SE could protect mice infected with L. major against leishmaniasis.

Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles exhibit antitumor activity and suppress the proliferation of triple-negative MDA-MB 231 breast cancer cells: implications for invasive breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Quercetin (QC) is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties have been previously demonstrated, but its low bioavailability hampers its clinical use. Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer with a poor response to chemotherapy. This study investigates the anti-cancer effects of quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) on the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB231.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells were treated with 18.9 µM of QC and QC-SLN for 48 h. Cell viability, apoptosis, colony formation assay, and the anti-angiogenic effects of the treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

QC-SLN displayed optimal properties (particle size of 154 nm, zeta potential of -27.7 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 99.6%, and drug loading of 1.81%) and exhibited sustained release of QC over 72 h. Compared to the QC group, the QC-SLN group showed a significant decrease in cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and a substantial increase in apoptosis through the modulation of Bax and Bcl-2 at both gene and protein levels. The augmentation in the proportion of cleaved-to-pro caspases 3 and 9, as well as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), under the influence of QC-SLN, was conspicuously observed in both cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showcases quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) as a promising therapy for triple-negative breast cancer. The optimized QC-SLN formulation improved physicochemical properties and sustained quercetin release, resulting in reduced cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and increased apoptosis in the MDA-MB231 cell line. These effects were driven by modulating Bax and Bcl-2 expression, activating caspases 3 and 9, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm QC-SLN's efficacy and safety.

Possible mechanisms involved in the neuroprotective effects of chrysin against mild traumatic brain injury-induced spatial cognitive decline: An in vivo study in a rat model

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is recognized as an important risk factor for cognitive deficits. The present study was designed to determine the potential neuroprotective effects of chrysin, a natural flavonoid compound, against TBI-induced spatial cognitive decline and the possible mechanisms involved. Oral administration of chrysin (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg/day) was initiated in rats immediately following the induction of the diffuse TBI model using the weight-dropping Marmarou model. Spatial cognitive ability, hippocampal synaptic plasticity, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, brain water content, and histological changes were assessed at scheduled time points. The animals subjected to TBI exhibited spatial cognitive decline in the Morris water maze (MWM) test, which was accompanied by inhibition of hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) induction at the perforant path-dentate gyrus (PP-DG) synapses. Additionally, TBI caused BBB disruption, brain edema, and neuronal loss. Interestingly, treatment with chrysin (especially in the dose of 100 mg/kg) alleviated all the above-mentioned neuropathological changes related to TBI. The results provide evidence that chrysin improves TBI-induced spatial cognitive decline, which may be partly related to the amelioration of hippocampal synaptic dysfunction, alleviation of BBB disruption, reduction of brain edema, and prevention of neuronal loss.

Hepatoprotective and anti-hyperglycemic effects of ferulic acid in arsenic-exposed mice

Arsenic is a toxic metalloid that increases the risk of hepatotoxicity and hyperglycemia. The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of ferulic acid (FA) in mitigating glucose intolerance and hepatotoxicity caused by sodium arsenite (SA). A total of six groups including control, FA 100 mg/kg, SA 10 mg/kg, and groups that received different doses of FA (10, 30, and 100 mg/kg), respectively just before SA (10 mg/kg) for 28 days were examined. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glucose tolerance tests were conducted on the 29th day. On day 30, mice were sacrificed and blood and tissues (liver and pancreas) were collected for further investigations. FA reduced FBS and improved glucose intolerance. Liver function and histopathological studies confirmed that FA preserved the structure of the liver in groups received SA. Furthermore, FA increased antioxidant defense and decreased lipid peroxidation and tumor necrosis factor-alpha level in SA-treated mice. FA, at the doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg, prevented the decrease in the expression of PPAR-γ and GLUT2 proteins in the liver of mice exposed to SA. In conclusion, FA prevented SA-induced glucose intolerance and hepatotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hepatic overexpression of PPAR-γ and GLUT2 proteins.

The protective effect of p-Coumaric acid on hepatic injury caused by particulate matter in the rat and determining the role of long noncoding RNAs MEG3 and HOTAIR

Increasing air pollution is associated with serious human health problems. P-coumaric acid (PC) is a herbal phenolic compound that exhibits beneficial pharmacological potentials. Here, the protective effect of PC on liver injury induced by air pollution was examined. Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were divided randomly into four groups (n = 8). The groups were; Control (rats received DMSO and then exposed to clean air), PC (rats received PC and then exposed to clean air), DMSO + Dust (rats received DMSO and then exposed to dust), and PC + Dust (the animals received PC and then exposed to dust). The clean air, DMSO, PC, and dust were administrated 3 days a week for 6 consecutive weeks. The rats were anesthetized and their blood samples and liver sections were taken to conduct molecular, biomedical, and histopathological tests. Dust exposure increased the liver enzymes, bilirubin, triglyceride, cholesterol, and the production of liver malondialdehyde, and decreased in liver total anti-oxidant capacity and serum high-density lipoprotein. It also increased the mRNA expression of inflammatory-related cytokines, decreased the mRNA expression of SIRT-1, decreased the expression levels of miR-20b5p, and MEG3 while increased the expression levels of miR-34a, and HOTAIR. Dust exposure also increased the liver content of three cytokines TNF-α, NF-κB, HMGB-1, and ATG-7 proteins. PC enhanced liver function against adverse effects of dust through recovering almost all the studied variables. Exposure to dust damaged the liver through induction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and autophagy. PC protected the liver against dust-induced cytotoxicity.

Gentisic acid ameliorates type 2 diabetes induced by Nicotinamide-Streptozotocin in male mice by attenuating pancreatic oxidative stress and inflammation through modulation of Nrf2 and NF-кB pathways

AIMS

There is a close link between oxidative stress, inflammation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Gentisic acid (GA) is a di-phenolic compound and an active metabolite of aspirin that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its potential anti-diabetic effects have not been evaluated so far. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate GA's potential antidiabetic effects through the Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor (Nrf2) and Nuclear Factor Kappa Beta (NF-кB) signaling pathways.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, T2DM induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (65 mg/kg B.W) after 15 min nicotinamide (120 mg/kg B.W) injection. After seven days of injections, fasting blood glucose (FBS) was measured. Seven days after FBS monitoring treatments started. Grouping and treatments were as follows: 1) Normal control group; NC, 2) Diabetic control group; DC, 3) Metformin group; MT (150 mg/kg B.W, daily), 4) Test group; GA (100 mg/kg B.W, daily). Treatments continued for 14 consecutive days.

KEY FINDINGS

Diabetic mice treatment with GA significantly decreased FBS, improved plasma lipid profiles and pancreatic antioxidant status. GA modulated Nrf2 pathway by upregulation of Nrf2 protein, NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1), and p21, and downregulation of miR-200a, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase-2 (NOX2). Also, GA attenuated inflammation by upregulation of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and downregulation of miR-125b, NF-кB, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß).

SIGNIFICANCE

GA attenuates T2DM, possibly by improving antioxidant status through the Nrf2 pathway and attenuation of inflammation.

Citicoline ameliorates arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity and diabetes in mice by overexpression of VAMP2, PPAR-γ, As3MT, and SIRT3

The use of arsenic in arsenic-based pesticides has been common in many countries in the past and today. There is considerable evidence linking arsenic exposure to hepatotoxicity and diabetes. Destructive phenomena such as hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation can interfere with glucose uptake and insulin function. In the present study, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and molecular mechanism of citicoline against sodium arsenite-induced hepatotoxicity and glucose intolerance were investigated in mice. Citicoline improved glucose tolerance impaired by sodium arsenite. Citicoline increased the hepatic activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase enzymes. Moreover, we found that citicoline prevents an increase in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. Citicoline reduced levels of caspase 3, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin 6 in sodium arsenite intoxicated groups. It was shown that citicoline increased the expression of arsenite methyltransferase, vesicle-associated membrane protein 2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, and sirtuin 3 to combat sodium arsenite toxicity. Citicoline reduced glucose intolerance, which was disrupted by sodium arsenite, by affecting the pancreatic and extra-pancreatic pathways involved in insulin production, secretion, and action. Based on our results, citicoline can be considered a modulating agent against arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity and hyperglycemia. Considering the relationship between arsenic exposure and the occurrence of side effects such as liver toxicity and diabetes, it is necessary to monitor and awareness of arsenic residues from sources such as drinking water.

Gentisic acid protects against diabetic nephropathy in Nicotinamide-Streptozotocin administered male mice by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation: The role of miR-200a/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and NF-кB

Oxidative stress and inflammation play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Local renin-angiotensin systems (RAS) contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of DN by exacerbating oxidative stress and inflammation.Gentisic acid (GA), a phenolic compound and also a metabolite of aspirin, is reported to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the protective effects of GA against DN remain to be elucidated. Nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) and streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) were used to induce diabetes in male mice. Oral administration of GA once daily for 2 weeks (100 mg/kg) ameliorated diabetes-induced renal injury by reducing plasma creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen, and urinary albuminuria levels. Diabetic mice showed a significant increase in total oxidant status and malondialdehyde, along with decreased catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in the kidney tissue, which was ameliorated in the GA-treated mice. Histopathological analysis showed that GA treatment reduced diabetes-induced renal injury. Furthermore, GA treatment was associated with the downregulation of miR-125b, nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-кB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and upregulation of interleukin-10 (IL-10), miR-200a, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the renal tissue. GA treatment also downregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 (ACE1), angiotensin II receptor 1 (AT1R), and NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX 2) and upregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In conclusion, the ameliorative effects of GA against DN may be attributed to its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties through the downregulation of NF-кB, upregulation of Nrf2, and modulation of RAS in renal tissue.

Effective inhibition of breast cancer stem cell properties by quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles via reduction of Smad2/Smad3 phosphorylation and β-catenin signaling pathway in triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is a major cause of resistance to cancer therapy and recurrence. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype that responds poorly to therapy, making it a significant global health issue. Quercetin (QC) has been shown to affect CSC viability, but its low bioavailability limits its clinical use. This study aims to increase the effectiveness of QC in inhibiting CSC generation by using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) in MDA-MB231 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After treating MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells with 18.9 μM and 13.4 μM of QC and QC-SLN for 48 h, respectively, cell viability, migration, sphere formation, protein expression of β-catenin, p-Smad 2 and 3, and gene expression of EMT and CSC markers were evaluated.

RESULTS

The QC-SLN with particle size of 154 nm, zeta potential of -27.7 mV, and encapsulation efficacy of 99.6% was found to be the most effective. Compared to QC, QC-SLN significantly reduced cell viability, migration, sphere formation, protein expression of β-catenin and p-Smad 2 and 3, and gene expression of CD₄₄, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), vimentin, while increasing the gene expression of E-cadherin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that SLNs improve the cytotoxic effect of QC in MDA-MB231 cells by increasing its bioavailability and inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), thereby effectively inhibiting CSC generation. Therefore, SLNs could be a promising new treatment for TNBC, but more in vivo studies are needed to confirm their efficacy.

Green synthesis of 2,4-dinitro-substituted bischalcones using bifunctional magnetic nanocatalyst

Flavonoids have many biological properties, such as anticancer activity. Chalcones, one of their subunits, attribute their biological activity to their enone part. The presence of dinitrophenyl group in bischalcone because of its radiosensitivity property is important. Radiosensitivity property reduces radiation time in cancer patients and reduces damage to their healthy tissues. In this regard, 2,4-dinitrophenyl bischalcones were synthesized. The presence of 2,4-dinitrobenzaldehyde as a fixed component in synthesis pathway, leads to a reduction in yield of synthesis by common catalysts. Therefore, in this study, for bis-chalone synthesis, we used Graphene Oxide/Fe3O4/L-Proline nanocomposite as a green recoverable bifunctional organocatalyst. This catalyst was recovered simply by applying an external magnet and reused for eight runs. In this research, chalcones and asymmetric bis-chalcones have been synthesized with diverse substitutes in high yields (78–97%). Also, short reaction times (10–82 min), and simple experimental procedures with easy work-up are advantages of the introduced procedure. The synthesized compounds were characterized by melting point and analytical techniques. The chemical structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by means of IR, 1HNMR, and 13CNMR.

Gemfibrozil palliates adriamycin-induced testicular injury in male rats via modulating oxidative, endocrine and inflammatory changes in rats

Adriamycin (ADR), an antineoplastic drug, is widely used to treat different types of cancers. Yet, the usage is limited because of its severe side effects on testis. On the other hand, gemfibrozil (GEM), as an anti-hyperlipidemic drug, has other pharmacological effects independent of lipid- lowering activity including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The present experiment was designed to investigate the effect of GEM on ADR-induced testicular injury in male rats. A total of 28 male Wistar rats were divided into 4 equal groups: Control; ADR; ADR + GEM; GEM. Serum level of testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone were assessed. Also, testicular tissue oxidant/antioxidant markers (malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, nitric oxide, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione) and proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β) were measured. Histopathological studies were conducted on testes. GEM improved hormonal profile and antioxidant defenses in comparison with ADR-treated animals. GEM, significantly reduced the production of proinflammatory cytokines compared with ADR-treated animals. Hormonal and biochemical results were further supported by testicular histopathological findings. Thus, GEM might represent a promising therapeutic modality for the attenuation of testicular injury induced by ADR in clinic.

p-Coumaric acid has pure anti-inflammatory characteristics against hepatopathy caused by ischemia-reperfusion in the liver and dust exposure

Objectives

Studies show that chronic injuries like air pollution or acute damage such as hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (IR) cause various cellular pathologies such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammation in hepatocytes. p-Coumaric acid (p-CA) is known as an antioxidant with many therapeutic impacts on inflammatory-related pathologies. In this experiment, we aimed to assess the hepatoprotective effects of p-CA on liver damage induced by dust and IR injury in adult male rats.

Materials and Methods

Forty-eight adult male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups; Control (CTRL); sham; DMSO+Dust+Laparotomy (LPT); DMSO+Dust+Ischemia-reperfusion (IR); p-CA+Dust+LPT; and p-CA+Dust+IR. Clean air, DMSO, p-CA, and dust were administrated 3 days a week for 6 consecutive weeks. Animals were sacrificed, the blood samples were aspirated and the liver sections were prepared for biochemical and histopathological assessments.

Results

Significantly (P<0.05), the results represented that dust and IR can potentially increase the levels of ALT, AST, direct and total bilirubin, triglyceride, and cholesterol in serum. Also, MDA, TNF-α , NF-κB . HMGB-1 and ATG-7 levels were increased in hepatocytes. Gene expression of Nrf2, HOX-1, IL-6, HOTAIR, and miR-34a showed an incremental trend in the liver tissue. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in hepatocytes was decreased following dust exposure and IR induction. Also, miR-20b-5p, MEG3, and SIRT1 in the liver were decreased in dust and dust+IR groups.

Conclusion

p-CA alleviated pathological changes caused by dust exposure and IR injury. p-CA protected hepatic injury induced by dust and IR by inhibition of oxidative injury, inflammation, and autophagy.

Therapeutic Utilization of Zinc Supplementation Concurrent with Ozone Therapy Ameliorates Diabetic Foot Ulcer and Attenuates Serum Level of C-reactive Protein- A Case Report Study

Non-healing diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is one of the main complications in diabetic patients. This case reported a 65-year-old male with a neuropathic ulcer in the right foot came to Ahwaz Wound Clinic after the wound had not healed with routine treatments. In addition to the routine treatment program, we used tropical ozone therapy and autohemotherapy (blood ozone therapy) for 2 months. Zinc supplementation (50 mg) was also administered daily during the treatment. The DFU was clearly healed with diminishing inflammation and wound closing, and there were no side effects. Additionally, the C-reactive protein level was obviously decreased during the treatment indicating effective suppression of infection. This way indicates a helpful new intervention approach to the treatment of DFU.

Betaine protects against sodium arsenite-induced diabetes and hepatotoxicity in mice

Epidemiological evidence has associated chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic with an increased occurrence of glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, inorganic arsenic induces oxidative stress in organs such as the liver. Betaine, as a methyl donor, plays a pivotal role in homocysteine metabolism. Betaine has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of betaine against sodium arsenite-induced diabetes and hepatotoxicity in mice. Forty-eight male mice were divided into 6 groups of 8. Group 1, received distilled water every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Group 2 received 500 mg/kg betaine every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Group 3 was given 10 mg/kg NaAsO₂ every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Groups 4, 5, and 6 were co-treated with 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg betaine half an hour before NaAsO₂ (10 mg/kg), respectively, daily for up to 4 weeks by gavage. After 28 days of the study, the mice were fasted overnight and on day 29, fasting blood glucose was measured and glucose tolerance test was performed. On day 30, the mice were anesthetized and a blood sample was taken from the heart. Serum factors (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase activities), oxidative stress factors (malondialdehyde and glutathione levels, and the activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase enzymes) and hepatic inflammatory factors (nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor α) were measured. Histopathological studies were also performed on the liver and pancreas. In this study, it was shown that arsenic causes glucose intolerance, and oxidative/inflammatory hepatic damage. Co-administration of betaine prevents hepatotoxicity and glucose intolerance induced by arsenic in mice. Co-treatment of betaine with arsenic improved glucose intolerance and protected the liver against arsenic induced-oxidative damage and inflammation. Betaine at the dose of 500 mg/kg showed better results than the other doses. Accordingly, betaine can be suggested as a therapeutic agent against diabetogenic and hepatotoxic effects of arsenic.

Crocin attenuates endoplasmic reticulum stress in methylglyoxal-induced diabetic nephropathy in male mice: MicroRNAs alterations and glyoxalase 1-Nrf2 signaling pathways

OBJECTIVES

Accumulation of methylglyoxal (MGO) occurs in diabetes. MicroRNA-204 is an important intracellular marker in the diagnosis of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Crocin (Crn) has beneficial effects for diabetes, but the effect of Crn on MGO-induced diabetic nephropathy has not been investigated. The current research evaluated the effects of Crn and metformin (MET) on diabetic nephropathy induced by MGO in male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 70 male NMRI mice were randomly divided into 7 groups: control, MGO (600 mg/Kg/d), MGO+Crn (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg/d), MGO+MET (150 mg/kg/d), and Crn60 (60 mg/kg/d). Methylglyoxal was gavaged for four weeks. After proving hyperglycemia, Cr and MET were administered orally in the last two weeks. Biochemical and antioxidant evaluations, microRNA expression, and histological evaluation were assessed.

RESULTS

The fasting blood glucose, urine albumin, blood urea nitrogen, plasma creatinine, malondialdehyde, Nrf2, miR-204, and miR-192 expression increased in the MGO group. These variables decreased in Crn-treated animals. The decreased levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glyoxalase 1, Glutathione, and miR-29a expression in the MGO group improved in the diabetic-treated mice. Histological alterations such as red blood cell accumulation, inflammation, glomerulus diameter changes, and proximal cell damage were also observed.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated that Crn and MET attenuated renal damage by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Determination of the effectiveness of Dorema ammoniacum gum on wound healing: an experimental study

OBJECTIVE

For a long time, natural compounds have been used to accelerate wound healing. In this study, the topical effects of ammoniacum gum extract on wound healing were investigated in white male rats.

METHOD

Following skin wound induction in aseptic conditions, 48 Wistar rats were divided into six equal groups; phenytoin cream 1% (standard), untreated (control), Eucerin (control), and 5%, 10% and 20% ointments of Dorema ammoniacum gum extract (treatment groups). All experimental groups received topical drugs daily for 14 days. The percentage of wound healing, hydroxyproline content, histological parameters, and growth factors (endothelial growth factor (EGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-α) were measured in experimental groups.

RESULTS

The areas of the wounds in the treatment groups were significantly decreased compared with the wound areas of control groups at 5, 7 and 10 days after wounding. On the 12th day, the wounds in the treatment groups were completely healed. Hydroxyproline contents were significantly increased in the treatment groups compared with the control groups (p<0.001). In histological evaluation, the re-epithelialisation, increasing thickness of the epithelial layer, granulation tissue and neovascularisation parameters in the treatment groups showed significant increases compared with the control groups. Also, serum levels of TGF-β, PDGF, EGF and VEGF in the treatment groups were significantly increased compared to the control groups.

CONCLUSION

The topical application of ammoniacum gum extract significantly increases the percentage of wound healing in rats and reduces the time of wound closure.

Spleen extracellular matrix provides a supportive microenvironment for β-cell function

Objectives

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a common autoimmune and multifactorial disorder. Researchers have been interested in making a favorable islet-like tissue model for the treatment of diabetes. The main objective of this study was to determine the effects of the spleen extracellular matrix (S-ECM) on the function of the MIN6 cell line (a β-cell model).

Materials and Methods

In this experimental research, Wistar rat spleens were decellularized by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and Triton X-100. S-ECM was characterized by histological assessments, scanning electron microscopy, determination of residua DNA, and examination of the mechanical tensile property. Then, MIN6 cells were seeded on S-ECM scaffold. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and mRNA expression of insulin-related genes were examined to confirm the function of the cells.

Results

The main components of S-ECM such as collagen and glycosaminoglycan remained after decellularization. Furthermore, very low residual DNA and appropriate mechanical behavior of S-ECM provided an ideal extracellular microenvironment for the MIN6 cells. GSIS results showed that the seeded cells in S-ECM secreted more insulin than the traditional two-dimensional (2D) culture. The expression of specific insulin-related genes such as PDX-1, insulin, Maf-A, and Glut-2 in the recellularized scaffold was more significant than in the 2D traditional cultured cells. Also, MTT assay results showed that S-ECM were no cytotoxic effects on the MIN6 cells.

Conclusion

These results collectively have evidenced that S-ECM is a suitable scaffold for stabilizing artificial pancreatic islands.

Myricetin loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles induces apoptosis in the HT-29 colorectal cancer cells via mitochondrial dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Among the flavonoids, Myricetin (MCN) has negligible side effects and anti-cancer properties. However, the therapeutic potential of MCN has been limited mainly by its low bioavailability. Nanocarriers improve the bioavailability and stability of flavonoids. The toxic effects of MCN loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (MCN-SLNs) on the HT-29 human colorectal cancer cells were investigated in this study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HT-29 cells were exposed to the 30 µmol MCN or MCN-SLNs for 24 h. Colony formation, cell viability, apoptosis, and expression of the Bax, Bcl-2, and AIF (apoptosis-inducing factor) have been investigated. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were also measured. The MCN-SLNs with appropriate characteristics and a slow sustained MCN release until 48 h made. MCN-SLNs could diminish colony numbers and survival of the HT-29 cells. The apoptosis index of MCN-SLNs-treated cells significantly increased compared to the free MCN (p < 0.001). The expression of Bax and AIF were elevated (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively) while Bcl-2 expression was decreased in MCN-SLNs treatment (p < 0.05). Moreover, MCN-SLNs significantly enhanced the ROS formation and reduced MMP compared to the free MCN-treated cells (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The SLN formulation of MCN can effectively induce colon cancer cell death by raising ROS formation and activating the apoptosis process.

Swimming training combined with chitosan supplementation reduces the development of obesity and oxidative stress in high-fat diet-fed mice

Obesity is often introduced as one of the metabolic disorders caused by imbalance between energy consumption and metabolisable energy intake. Experts in the field considered obesity as one of the robust risk factors for the lifestyle-associated diseases. The present research examined interventional effects of marine chitosan (CS), swimming training (ST) and combination of CS and ST (CS + ST) in the mice fed with high-fat diets (HFD). In this study, sample size was considered more than three in groups. Forty mice were randomly divided into five groups (n 8 per group) including control group (received the standard diet), HFD group (received high-fat food with 20 % fat), HFD + CS group (treated with high-fat food with 5 % CS), HFD + ST group (treated with HFD and ST) and HFD + CS + ST group (treated with high-fat food with 5 % CS and ST). After 8 weeks, the blood glucose, oxidative stress (OS) and lipid profile were measured. The results showed that CS + ST group has more effects in the control of body weight with the increased concentration of HDL-cholesterol, OS inhibition via enhancing the body antioxidant capacity in comparison with the ST or CS alone in HFD-fed mice. Moreover, lipid profile was improved in CS + ST-treated mice compared with HFD-treated mice, and OS inhibition correlated with the greater activities of the antioxidant enzyme enhances the lipid oxidation, cholesterol and fatty acid homoeostasis. The results suggested that a dietary intervention with a combined ST and CS can be a feasible supplementary for human prevention of obesity.

CpG Island Methylation of the Rap1Gap Gene in Medullary Thyroid Cancer

BACKGROUND

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare type of neuroendocrine tumor. This study aimed to investigate the gene and protein expression of RAP1GAP and DNA methylation patterns of its CpG74_a , CpG74_b , and CpG24 in an Iranian population with MTC.

METHODS

In this case-control study, we selected 55 individuals who underwent thyroidectomy in Erfan hospital, Tehran, between 2018 and 2020. Samples were divided into normal thyroid tissues (control; n=20), benign nodule (n=20), and MTC (n=15). DNA methylation patterns were investigated using MSP (methylation-specific PCR). The protein level and mRNA expression of RAP1GAP were also evaluated using western blotting and real-time PCR, respectively.

RESULTS

The hyper-methylation rates of CpG24 and CpG74_a in the MTC samples were considerably higher than the controls (83% versus 15% and 74% versus 17%, respectively; P<0.001). The methylation/unmethylation ratio of CpG74_a , and CpG24 was considerably higher than the controls (P<0.001). The methylation/unmethylation ratio of CpG24 in the benign nodules was also considerably greater than the controls (P<0.001). The mRNA expression and the protein level of RAP1GAP in the MTC group were considerably lower than the controls (P=0.005 and P=0.035, respectively). In the MTC group, aberrant methylation of CpG74_a and CpG24 was significantly correlated with decreasing expression of the Rap1Gap gene (R² : 0.23; P=0.032 and R² : 0.56; P=0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Hyper-methylation in CpG24 and CpG74_a and decreasing expression of RAP1GAP can be considered as diagnostic biomarkers for MTC.

Crocin ameliorates MicroRNAs-associated ER stress in type 2 diabetes induced by methylglyoxal

OBJECTIVES

Methylglyoxal (MG) provokes endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in β-cells and triggers pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. Crocin has anti-diabetic properties. The present study investigated whether crocin prevented pancreas damages induced by MG.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetes was induced by MG administration (600 mg/kg/day, PO). On the fourteenth day, after proving hyperglycemia, crocin (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg) and metformin (MT) (150 mg/kg) were used for detoxification of MG until the end of the experiment. The animals were divided into 6 groups: 1) control, 2) diabetic by MG, 3) MG + crocin 15 mg/kg, 4) MG + crocin 30 mg/kg, 5) MG + crocin 60 mg/kg, and 6) MG + MT. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and significant differences were compared by Tukey and Bonferroni tests (P<0.05). Biochemical assays, antioxidant evaluation, and microRNAs expression associated with ER stress were assessed.

RESULTS

MG induced hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia (P<0.001). Crocin and MT significantly ameliorated β-cell function through reduction of fasting blood glucose, malondialdehyde levels (P<0.001), and significant elevation of anti-oxidant enzyme activity accompanied by regulation of glutathione and glyoxalase1-Nrf2 in MG induced diabetic mice. Crocin and MT significantly down-regulated microRNAs 204, 216b, 192, and 29a expression (P<0.001). Crocin (60 mg/kg) (P<0.01) and MT (P<0.001) could improve diameter of pancreatic islets in MG treated mice.

CONCLUSION

Crocin prevents the progression of diabetes through modulating ER stress-associated microRNAs and GLO1 activity with the helpful effects of glutathione and Nrf2.

Epicatechin ameliorative effects on methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

BACKGROUND

Due to the fact that methotrexate is widely used both as an immunosuppressive drug and as a chemotherapy agent, many studies are needed to reduce the side effects of this drug on non-target organs.

PURPOSE

This study was designed to investigate the effects of epicatechin (Epi) on MTX (methotrexate)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN

After 1 week for adaptation, we randomly divided 42 male Naval Medical Research Institute mice into six groups: (I) control; (II) Epi (100 mg/kg, po); (III) MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p.) on the fifth day; and (IV, V, and VI) Epi (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, po) + MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p.) on the fifth day. At day 10, the mice were sacrificed and serum factors, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines were measured.

RESULTS

MTX increased activity level of serum enzymes (alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase), lipid peroxidation marker (malondialdehyde), and inflammatory factors including interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and nitric oxide. Furthermore, MTX decreased glutathione level and activity level of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. Epi was able to reduce the destructive effects of oxidative/antioxidant system imbalance and inflammatory reactions and also histopathological damage in MTX intoxicated mice. Epi pretreatment reduced liver dysfunction by improving the antioxidant defense system, anti-inflammatory effects, and alleviation of histopathological damage in MTX hepatotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Accordingly, Epi can be used as a therapeutic agent in hepatotoxicity associated with MTX chemotherapy.

Gallic acid protects the liver against NAFLD induced by dust exposure and high-fat diet through inhibiting oxidative stress and repressing the inflammatory signaling pathways NF-kβ/TNF-α/IL-6 in Wistar rats

Objective:

The burden of diseases and death related to environmental pollution is becoming a major public health challenge. This study was designed to evaluate the deleterious effects of a combination of dust exposure and high-fat diet on liver function. Gallic acid as a potent antioxidant was used to prevent/alleviate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in rats exposed to dust and HFD.

Materials and Methods:

24 rats were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups: HFD+Clean air, HFD+N/S+Dust and HFD+gallic acid+Dust. Animals were exposed to CA/ dust for six weeks on alternate days. At the end of the experiments, rats were anesthetized and samples were taken to perform molecular, biomedical, and histopathological evaluations.

Results:

Dust exposure induced NAFLD features in rats under HFD. Dust exposure and HFD disrupted liver enzymes and lipid profile. Dust exposure and HFD increased liver MDA level, mRNA expression of NF-Kβ, TNF-α, IL-6, Nrf2, HO1 and miRs122, and 34a. Dust+HFD also decreased liver total antioxidant capacity level. Pretreatment with GA improved almost studied variables in the HFD+GA+Dust group.

Conclusion:

The present study showed that HFD given for 6 weeks and dust exposure induced NAFLD in Wistar rats through inducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress through activating the inflammatory pathways caused NAFLD features. GA pretreatment by inhibiting oxidative stress, effectively protected liver functions against HFD+Dust induced inflammation.

Autophagy Involves in Differentiation of Insulin-Secreting Cells from Adipose Derived Stem Cells

OBJECTIVE

Destruction of pancreatic beta-cells induces an insulin deficiency and causes type 1 diabetes. The role of autophagy in inducing insulin-secreting cells (ISCs) from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) was investigated in the current study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, the isolated AMSCs were characterization and exposed to a cocktail differentiation medium (CDM) in the absence or presence of 3-methyladenine (3MA), an autophagy inhibitor. The differentiation of ISCs was confirmed by the evaluation of the expression of beta-cell-specific genes including pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX1), musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog A (MAF-A), Nk class of homeodomain-encoding genes 6.1 and 2.2 (NKX6-1 and NKX2.2), Glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2) and INSLIN. Using Newport Green (NG), insulin-positive cells were identified. Insulin secretion in response to various glucose concentrations was measured. Autophagy was evaluated by Acridine orange (AO) staining. Also, expression of autophagy-associated genes, including autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG-5), autophagy-related gene 7 (ATG-7), BECLIN-1, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), was evaluated by Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.

RESULTS

We observed a significant increase of beta-cell specific genes expression in the CDM-treated cells (P<0.01 or P<0.001), whereas the expression of these genes was down-regulated in 3MA-exposed cells. Expression of INSULIN and GLUT-2 genes (P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively), insulin secretion in response to glucose (P<0.01), and percentage of NG-positive cells (P<0.05) in the 3MA-exposed cells were considerably lower than the cells treated with CDM. The percentage of AO-positive cells (P<0.01) and the expression of autophagy-related genes (P<0.001) was significantly enhanced in the CDM group. These events were significantly prevented by the 3MA.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that autophagy is necessary for beta-cell differentiation, and preventing autophagy by 3MA causes the reduction of beta-cell differentiation and insulin secretion.

Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress in isolated proximal tubules of mouse: the in vitro effects of myricitrin and its solid lipid nanoparticle

CONTEXT

The hyperglycemia (Hyper) induces oxidative stress in kidney tubular cells. Myricitrin (Myr) has an antioxidant effect along with low bioavailability.

OBJECTIVE

The present research investigated the effects of Myr and its solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) on isolated proximal tubules exposed to the hyperglycemic condition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, the proximal tubules of mice were dissected by the microdissection method and the tubules were prepared for experimental or Real Time-PCR measurement.

RESULTS

The malondialdehyde level, transforming growth factor-β, nuclear factor kappa B and Bax genes expression increased in Hyper and decreased in Hyper + Myr and its SLN-treated groups compared to Hyper. Superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, the viability of proximal tubules and Bcl-2 gene expression decreased in untreated Hyper and increased in all treatment groups compared to Hyper.

CONCLUSION

The hyperglycemia-induced oxidative disorder, inflammation and apoptosis in proximal tubules and that administrating Myr and its SLN improved them.

Effects of crocin and metformin on methylglyoxal-induced reproductive system dysfunction in diabetic male mice

Objective

This study investigated the effect of crocin in methylglyoxal (MGO)-induced diabetic male mice.

Methods

Seventy 1-month-old male NMRI mice weighing 20–25 g were divided into seven groups (n=10): sham, MGO (600 mg/kg/day), MGO+crocin (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg/day), MGO+metformin (150 mg/kg/day), and crocin (60 mg/kg/day). MGO was administered orally for 30 days. Starting on day 14, after confirming hyperglycemia, metformin and crocin were administered orally. On day 31, plasma and tissue samples were prepared for experimental assessments.

Results

Blood glucose and insulin levels in the MGO group were higher than those in the sham group (p<0.001), and decreased in response to metformin (p<0.001) and crocin treatment (not at all doses). Testis width and volume decreased in the MGO mice and improved in the crocin-treated mice (p<0.05), but not in the metformin group. Superoxide dismutase levels decreased in diabetic mice (p<0.05) and malondialdehyde levels increased (p<0.001). Crocin and metformin improved malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase. Testosterone (p<0.001) and sperm count (p<0.05) decreased in the diabetic mice, and treatment with metformin and crocin recovered these variables. Luteinizing hormone levels increased in diabetic mice (p<0.001) and crocin treatment (but not metformin) attenuated this increase. Seminiferous diameter and height decreased in the diabetic mice and increased in the treatment groups. Vacuoles and ruptures were seen in diabetic testicular tissue, and crocin improved testicular morphology (p<0.01).

Conclusion

MGO increased oxidative stress, reduced sex hormones, and induced histological problems in male reproductive organs. Crocin and metformin improved the reproductive damage caused by MGO-induced diabetes.

The effects of gallic acid and metformin on male reproductive dysfunction in diabetic mice induced by methylglyoxal: An experimental study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that has reached a dangerous point. Today, nearly 500 million men and women around the world live with diabetes. Gallic acid (Gal) affects diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of Gal and metformin (met) on the levels of glucose, insulin, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sperm count, antioxidant status, and histological changes in the testes of diabetic mice induced by methylglyoxal (MGO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 50 male adult NMRI mice, weighting 25-30 gr, aged 3-4 months were randomly divided into five equal groups (n = 10/each). (i) Control (vehicle, normal saline), (ii) MGO (600 mg/kg/d) orally for 28 days, (iii) Gal (50 mg/kg/d), (iv) MGO+Gal, and (v) MGO+met (200 mg/kg/d). Gal and met were administered orally for 21 consecutive days after the induction of diabetes. Blood samples were taken at 24 hr after the latest doses of treatment. Histological assessment of the testis was done, and the epididymis sperm count was obtained. Antioxidant indices, glucose, insulin, LH, FSH, and testosterone levels were measured.

RESULTS

In the MGO group compared to the control group, insulin, glucose (p = 0.001), LH (p = 0.04) and malondialdehyde (p = 0.001) were increased. However, the level of testosterone (p = 0.001), seminiferous tubule diameters, epithelial height, sperm count, superoxide dismutase activity (p = 0.02), and testis volume (p = 0.01) were decreased. The results indicated that Gal and met ameliorated the MGO effects.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that the animals receiving MGO became diabetic. According to the results, Gal and met can effectively prevent MGO-induced diabetes. The effect of Gal was equivalent and sometimes better than metformin.

Dimethyl fumarate reduces oxidative stress, inflammation and fat deposition by modulation of Nrf2, SREBP-1c and NF-κB signaling in HFD fed mice

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs due to lipid metabolic disorders, which is associated with hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation. There is no definitive drug treatment for this disease. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) as one of the superior effective drugs that induces a transcription factor of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) on development of NAFLD in mice. The metabolic disturbance in High-fat diet (HFD)-treated animals was associated with hyperlipidemia, increased activity levels of hepatic enzymes in serum, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, oxidative stress and inflammation. DMF supplementation had anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-lipogenic and molecular compatibility effects induced by HFD in mice. In comparison to the HFD group, the DMF therapy could significantly suppress the sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 c (SREBP-1c) gene and protein levels, as well as upregulate the Nrf2 gene and protein levels. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory activity was observed for the DMF by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) level. DMF reduces the development of NAFLD induced by HFD in mice through the modulation of transcription factors Nrf2, SREBP-1c and NF-κB. Thus, DMF can be considered as an effective candidate in the treatment of human NAFLD.

RAP1GAP Functions as a Tumor Suppressor Gene and Is Regulated by DNA Methylation in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, such as RAP1GAP, by hypermethylation of their regulatory region can give rise to thyroid tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of the RAP1GAP gene and the DNA methylation patterns of its CpG74a, CpG74b, and CpG24 in an Iranian population with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). In this study, 160 individuals who underwent thyroidectomy in the Tehran Erfan Hospital between 2018 and 2020 were selected. DNA methylation patterns of selected CpG islands (CpG74a, CpG74b, and CpG24) were determined using methylation-specific PCR. The mRNA expression and protein level of -RAP1GAP were also evaluated. SW1736 and B-CPAP cells were treated with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza) to demethylate these regions. The hypermethylation rates of CpG74a and CpG24 in DTC samples were significantly higher than in the control. The mRNA expression and protein level of -RAP1GAP were significantly decreased in the DTC group. In the DTC group, hypermethylation in CpG74a was correlated with decreasing RAP1GAP expression (R2: 0.34; p = 0.043). CpG74a with a specificity of 86.4% has significant prediction power to distinguish between DTC and normal thyroid tissues. Additionally, hypermethylation of CpG74a was significantly associated with higher tumor stages (stage III-IV: 77%; stage I-II: 23%; p = 0.012). Increasing expression of RAP1GAP after demethylation with 15 µM of 5-Aza was observed in both cell lines. These results indicate that DNA hypermethylation in CpG74a can be considered as an epigenetic biomarker in DTC.

Protective effects of selenium on Bisphenol A-induced oxidative stress in mouse testicular mitochondria and sperm motility

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the impact of selenium (SE) on Bisphenol-A (BPA)-exposed sperm and isolated testicular mitochondria of mice.

METHODS

Mouse sperm and isolated mitochondria were exposed to BPA (0.8 mM) and different concentrations of SE (50, 100, and 200 μM) for four hours. The viability of sperm and isolated mitochondria as well as the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were evaluated. SOD (superoxide dismutase), GSH (glutathione), MDA (malondialdehyde), and ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels in testicular mitochondria were also examined.

RESULTS

BPA concentration-dependently enhanced ROS and MDA levels in isolated mitochondria, while MMP and acclivity of GSH and SOD significantly reduced. BPA also considerably impaired spermatozoa survival and motility. SE concentration-dependently reduced mitochondrial oxidative stress, MMP, sperm survival, and total sperm motility.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings collectively suggested that SE concentration-dependently reversed BPA-caused mitochondrial toxicity and reduced sperm motility by suppressing oxidative stress.

Taurine ameliorates cytotoxic effects of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on Leydig cells

It has been revealed that di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) has toxic impacts on the male reproductive system. Taurine (TAU) is an amino acid with antioxidant property and beneficial impacts on the male reproductive system. In this study, protective impacts of Taurine (TAU) on DEHP-induced Leydig TM3 cell toxicity were investigated. The cells exposed to DEHP (0.8 µmol) or TAU (100 mg/ml) for 24 hr. Cell viability (MTT assay), apoptosis, oxidative stress and testosterone level were examined. DEHP could significantly decrease the cell viability percentage, reduce testosterone level, increase apoptosis, elevate Bax/ Bcl-2 ratio and enhance caspase-3 and -9 activity in the TM3 cells. Additionally, DEHP significantly elevated malondialdehyde contents and reactive oxygen species levels. It also augmented superoxide dismutase and catalase activity in the Leydig cells. Co-treatment of DEHP with TAU increased viability and testosterone level, while oxidative stress and apoptosis significantly reduced. TAU could decrease Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 and -9 activity in the DEHP-intoxicated cells. Our results have clearly shown that TAU protects TM3 cells against oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by DEHP.

Taurine attenuates valproic acid-induced hepatotoxicity via modulation of RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL-mediated necroptosis signaling in mice

Valproic acid (VPA) is known as a common drug in seizure and bipolar disorders treatment. Hepatotoxicity is the most important complication of VPA. Taurine (Tau), an amino acid, has antioxidant effects. The present research was conducted to evaluate the protective mechanisms of Tau on VPA-induced liver injury, especially focusing on the necroptosis signaling pathway. The sixty-four male NMRI mice were divided into eight groups with eight animals per each. The experiment groups pretreated with Tau (250, 500, 1000 mg/kg) and necrostatine-1 (Nec-1, 1.8 mg/kg) and then VPA (500 mg/kg) was administered for 14 consecutive days. The extent of VPA-induced hepatotoxicity was confirmed by elevated ALP (alkaline phosphatase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase) levels, and histological changes as steatosis, accumulation of erythrocytes, and inflammation. Additionally, VPA significantly induced oxidative stress in the hepatic tissue by increasing ROS (reactive oxygen species) production and lipid peroxidation level along with decreasing GSH (glutathione). Hepatic TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor) level, mRNA and protein expression of RIPK1 (receptor-interacting protein kinase 1), RIPK3, and MLKL (mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase) were upregulated. Also, the phosphorylation of MLKL and RIPK3 increased in the VPA group. Tau could effectively reverse these events. Our data suggest which necroptosis has a key role in the toxicity of VPA through TNF-α-mediated RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL signaling and oxidative stress. Our findings suggest that Tau protects the liver tissue against VPA toxicity via inhibiting necroptosis signaling pathway mediated by RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL and suppressing oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

The effects of ozone and melatonin on busulfan-induced testicular damage in mice

Objective:

Busulfan is one of the most common chemotherapeutic drugs and has the ability to induce apoptosis in testicular germ cells, which leads to infertility. In this study, the effects of ozone therapy and melatonin were evaluated on testicular disorders induced by busulfan.

Methods:

In this study, we divided 24 male mice into four groups: control group, groups treated with busulfan, busulfan/melatonin, and busulfan/ozone. At the end of a 35-day period, blood samples were taken from the mice and their testosterone levels were measured. Both of the mice’s testes were removed and weighed, afterwards, each one of them was used for evaluation of morphology by Johnson’s score, as well as for measuring the diameter and thickness of seminiferous tubules. The other testis was homogenized for measuring Malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant status using Catalase (CAT), Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) levels. Epididymis spermatozoa were also used to evaluate motility, morphology, and sperm count.

Results:

Busulfan significantly reduced the testis quality (weight, sperm parameters, testosterone, CAT, SOD, and TAC levels) and increased MDA and destruction of seminiferous tubules compared to the control group. Ozone and melatonin treatments significantly increased testis quality, sperm parameters, MDA, and antioxidant status, but they did not affect the TAC level.

Conclusions:

This study showed that similar to melatonin, ozone can reduce the effect of busulfan toxicity on mice testis. However, further studies are needed to understand the precise mechanism of ozone function on testis.

Quercetin ameliorates cytotoxic effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles on sertoli cells by enhancing autophagy and suppressing oxidative stress

Previous studies have demonstrated the toxic impacts of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZO-NPs) on male reproductive cells. The effect of quercetin (QCT) on ZO-NPs-induced mouse Sertoli cell (TM4 cell line) toxicity and its underlying mechanisms were investigated in this study. The TM4 cells were exposed to ZO-NPs or QCT in different groups for 24 hr. The TM4 cells pre-treated with 3MA (3-Methyladenine, an autophagy inhibitor) to evaluate the autophagy role of QCT and ZO-NPs in the TM4 cells. ZO-NPs significantly reduced the viability percentage of the TM4 cells. The apoptosis percentage and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio of the ZO-NPs group were significantly increased, while the expression of autophagy-related genes was considerably downregulated. ZO-NPs also induced oxidative stress in the TM4 cells through increasing malondialdehyde contents and reactive oxygen species levels (ROS) and reducing antioxidant factors including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and glutathione peroxidase. In QCT + ZO-NPs group, these events were considerably reversed. 3MA could significantly decrease the cell viability of TM4 cells exposed to the QCT and ZO-NPs in comparison with the untreated 3MA groups. According to these results, the protective effects of QCT on ZO-NPs-exposed TM4 cells are related to inducing autophagy, prevention apoptosis and suppressing oxidative stress.

Diabetic nephropathy induced by methylglyoxal: gallic acid regulates kidney microRNAs and glyoxalase1-Nrf2 in male mice

BACKGROUND

Methylglyoxal (MG) has been reported to be a toxic by-product of glycolysis and intracellular stressor compound. This study investigated the effects of gallic acid (GA) against diabetic nephropathy (DN) induced by MG in male mice.

METHODS

DN was induced by methylglyoxal (600 mg/kg/day, p.o.) treated for 28 consecutive days. The animals received GA (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and metformin (MT) (150 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 7 consecutive days after diabetes induction. Biochemical assays, antioxidant evaluation, microRNAs associated with fibrosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and histopathological analysis were examined.

RESULTS

MG increased malondialdehyde, albuminuria, Nrf2, miR-192 and miR-204 expression in diabetic groups and GA decreased them. Superoxide dismutase, catalase, glyoxalase1, and miR-29a expression decreased in diabetic groups and increased in treatment with GA.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that GA has improved DN induced by MG via amelioration of biochemical indices, histopathological aspects, oxidative stress and microRNAs associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress and fibrosis.

Comparing Oxidative Stress Status Among Iranian Males and Females with Malignant and Non-malignant Thyroid Nodules

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is commonly accrued in thyroid tissue during hormone synthesis.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to examine oxidative stress in patients with thyroid cancer, benign thyroid nodules, and healthy individuals.

METHODS

In this study, 138 individuals were involved. Among the selected participants, 108 had thyroid nodules, including 30 papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), 30 follicular thyroid cancer (FTC), six anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), 12 medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and 30 benign nodules. In addition, 30 individuals were selected as a healthy control group. The levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS) of thyroid tissue were measured using the ELISA method, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated.

RESULTS

The TAC level was significantly lower in MTC and FTC subtypes than in controls. The TOS level was considerably higher in the MTC group than in the control and benign nodule groups. The TOS level was not changed in other groups. The OSI was considerably higher in MTC and FTC subtypes. The TAC and OSI in benign nodules were significantly lower and higher than those of controls, respectively. The OSI was higher in female patients than in males.

CONCLUSIONS

The OSI can not be considered a diagnostic biomarker for benign nodules and MTC. The diverse oxidative stress status between genders may be related to the elevated cancer incidence in females.

Taurine effects on Bisphenol A-induced oxidative stress in the mouse testicular mitochondria and sperm motility

Objectives:

This study was performed to investigate the protective effects of taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid, TAU) on oxidative stress in the isolated mouse testicular mitochondria, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), viability and motility of the exposed sperms to the BPA.

Methods:

We treated epididymal spermatozoa obtained from mice and isolated mouse testicular mitochondria with BPA (0.8 mmol/mL) and various doses of TAU (5, 10, 30 and 50 µmol/L). We used the MTT assay and Rhodamine 123 uptake to assess sperm viability and MMP. We assessed the oxidative stress through measuring ROS (reactive oxygen species), MDA (malondialdehyde), GSH (glutathione), and SOD (super-oxide dismutase) levels in the testicular mitochondrial tissue.

Results:

BPA significantly elevated ROS, MDA and MMP levels, and markedly reduced SOD and GSH levels in the isolated mitochondria. BPA also considerably impaired spermatozoa viability and motility. Pretreatment with 30 and 50 µmol/L of TAU could considerably suppressed mitochondrial oxidative stress, enhanced MMP, and improved sperm motility and viability.

Conclusion:

TAU may attenuate the BPA-induced mitochondrial toxicity and impaired sperm motility via decreasing oxidative stress.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles enhance expression of maspin in human breast cancer cells

Toxic and apoptotic impacts of zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZNP) on different cancer cells have been reported. Maspin (a mammary serine protease inhibitor) as a tumor suppressor gene can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. The expression of maspin is modulated by p53, Bcl-2 family genes, and estrogen receptor α (ER-α). This study aimed to assess the ZNP effects on maspin expression in MCF-7 cells (a breast cancer cell). Experimental groups (ZNP5, ZNP10, and ZNP20) received 5, 10, and 20 μM/mL ZNP for 48 h, respectively. 17-β-estradiol (E2) was used to evaluate the role of ER-α in the anticancer impact of ZNP. Cell viability, Annexin V, migration assay, gene expression, and western blotting methods were applied to evaluate ZNP effects on the MCF-7 cells. ZNP at the concentrations of 10 and 20 μM/mL could significantly decrease the viability and migration rate, and significantly increase apoptosis percentage in the MCF-7 cells. ZNP significantly enhanced mRNA expression and protein level of maspin in MCF-7 cells in a concentration-dependent way. ZNP concentration-dependently elevated mRNA expression and protein level of p53 and Bax while reduced the expression of Bcl-2 and ER-α. E2 promoted cancer cell growth by enhancing survival and migration rates. E2 treatment reduced mRNA expression and protein level of maspin and p53, and elevated Bcl-2 expression. ZNP considerably changed these events induced by E2 in the MCF-7 cells. It is concluded that the maspin overexpression is one of the toxic mechanisms of the ZNP on the ER-α-positive breast cancer cells, and can suppress the migration of these cells.

Metformin loaded cholesterol-lysine conjugate nanoparticles: A novel approach for protecting HDFs against UVB-induced senescence

Cellular senescence is one of the hallmarks of aging. Since senescence of dermal fibroblasts has been reported in vivo, reduction of the deleterious effects of these cells, has been considered an important intervention to counteract skin aging. Promising anti-aging effect of metformin has been reported. However, permeation of metformin due to its high hydrophilicity through skin epidermal barriers is limited. In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of metformin were designed with the newly synthesized cholesterol-lysine conjugate as lipid for topical delivery of metformin. Characterization of SLNs strongly confirmed the effect of cholesterol-lysine conjugate on increasing entrapment of metformin. The designed SLNs with particle size of 283 nm and spherical morphology represented controlled drug release up to 18 days. Fluorescent tracking of SLNs on mice skin samples showed an increase in epidermal penetration. SLNs containing metformin showed anti-senescence effects on UVB-induced senescence of human dermal fibroblasts, this effect was confirmed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, RT q-PCR and cell cycle analyses. Furthermore, our drug-free SLNs showed anti-senescence effects, suggesting that they can be a suitable carrier for phytochemicals with anti-aging effect or other hydrophilic compounds which have constraints permeating skin.

Pretreatment with p-coumaric acid protect rat’s liver against ischemia-reperfusion injury

Introduction: Many physiological, biochemical and toxicological reactions are occurred in liver. Therefore, healthy function of this organ is vital for the whole body. In spite of having potent endogenous antioxidant system, lots of reactions in liver make it more susceptible to stressors. It is established that improving the potency of liver antioxidants can increase its ability to resist against different kinds of oxidative stressors. Therefore, this study designed to determine whether p-coumaric alleviate ischemia-reperfusion-induced hepatic injury (IRI) in rats. Methods: Thirty-two rats were randomly assigned in sham, p-coumaric acid (PC), ischemia-reperfusion (IR) and p-coumaric acid pretreated IR (PC+IR) groups (n=8 in each group). Animals in sham group underwent laparotomy but not IR injury; rats in PC group did not experience any surgical procedures; IR and PC+IR groups underwent hepatic IR injury. P-coumaric acid at 100mg/kg were given for 7 consecutive days to PC and PC+IR groups. The last dose of p-coumaric acid was injected just before surgery on 7th days of experiment. The levels of malondialdehyde, TAC, ALT and AST were determined. A molecular evaluation to quantify the gene expression of SOD and GPx was done in liver homogenate. Results: P-coumaric mitigated the hepatic injuries induced by IR and improved TAC, ALT, AST, SOD and GPx. This pretreatment was also decreased MDA level. Conclusion: The current outcomes showed that PC via improving the endogenous level of antioxidants in liver tissues and inhibiting IR-induced inflammation maintain the liver structure and function of liver against IR.

Taurine induces autophagy and inhibits oxidative stress in mice Leydig cells

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated taurine (TAU) effects on autophagy, apoptosis and oxidative stress in mice Leydig TM3 cells.

METHODS

We treated TM3 cells with TAU (100 µg/mL) or 3-Methyladenine (3-MA, an autophagy inhibitor) for 24 h, and assessed cell viability, testosterone level, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy.

RESULTS

The results showed that TAU markedly increased cell viability, testosterone levels, expression of autophagy-related genes and percentage of LC3-II-positive cells. TAU significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and increased the activities of SOD (superoxide dismutase) and CAT (Catalase) enzymes in the TM3 cells. TAU in the presence of autophagy inhibitor (3-MA) increased oxidative stress and decreased testosterone levels.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that autophagy might be involved in TAU-increased testosterone levels in mice Leydig TM3 cells.