Antioxidant Properties Research Articles

The Synergistic Effect of Curcumin and Piperine Nanoparticles on Methamphetamine-induced Neurotoxicity, Oxidative Stress, and Memory Impairments in Mice Brain

Background: Methamphetamine (METH) is a highly addictive neural stimulant that severely affects the CNS and can induce oxidative damage. Piperine and curcumin are active constituents that have numerous properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective Objective: In this study, the synergistic effect of piperine and curcumin nanoparticles was investigated on the acute doses of METH-induced neurotoxicity in mice brains. Methods: METH (6 mg/kg, i.p) was administered to 14 groups of mice and piperine-curcumin nanoparticles at different doses (10, 20, 40 mg/kg and 20, 40 and 60 mg/kg, respectively) were administered. Open field test (OFT) and conditioned place preference (CPP) were used to investigate locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, and addictive behavior in mice. Oxidative stress biomarkers (reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein carbonyl content, lipid peroxidation, glutathione content, and mitochondrial function were evaluated in isolated brain mitochondria. Results: We found that piperine and curcumin nanoparticles significantly decreased hyperlocomotion and anxiety-like behavior in METH-treated mice. Also, METH enhanced CPP whilst piperine and curcumin nanoparticles suppressed the effect of METH-induced CPP. METH administration significantly increased ROS, protein carbonyl content, and lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione content and mitochondrial function in the isolated brain mitochondria. Piperine and curcumin nanoparticles (at all doses) showed synergistic effects on reducing oxidative damages in a dosedependent manner compared to the METH group. Conclusion: In conclusion, combined piperine and curcumin nanoparticles showed greater neuroprotective effects against METH-induced neurotoxicity due to their greater permeability and better antioxidant properties than piperine and curcumin alone

A Comprehensive Review on Niosomes as a Strategy in Targeted Drug Delivery: Pharmaceutical, and Herbal Cosmetic Applications.

Niosomes are newly developed, self-assembling sac-like transporters that deliver medication at a specific site in a focused manner, increasing availability in the body and prolonging healing effects. Niosome discovery has increased drugs' therapeutic effectiveness while also reducing adverse effects. This article aims to concentrate on the increase in the worldwide utilization of niosomal formulation. This overview presents a thorough perspective of niosomal investigation up until now, encompassing categories and production techniques, their significance in pharmaceutical transportation, and cosmetic use. The thorough literature review revealed that extensive attention has been given to developing nanocarriers for drug delivery as they hold immense endeavor to attain targeted delivery to the affected area simultaneously shielding the adjacent healthy tissue. Many reviews and research papers have been published that demonstrate the interest of scientists in niosomes. Phytoconstituents, which possess antioxidant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, anti-acne, and skin whitening properties, are also encapsulated into niosome. Their flexibility allows for the incorporation of various therapeutic agents, including small molecules, proteins, and peptides making them adaptable for different types of drugs. Niosomes can be modified with ligands, enhancing their targeting capabilities. A flexible drug delivery mechanism provided by non-ionic vesicles, which are self-assembling vesicular nano-carriers created from hydrating non-ionic surfactant, cholesterol, or amphiphilic compounds along comprehensive applications such as transdermal and brain-targeted delivery.

Yohimbine treatment improves pulmonary fibrosis by attenuating the inflammation and oxidative stress via modulating the MAPK pathway

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating interstitial lung disorder characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix and collagen, resulting in significant parenchymal scarring and respiratory failure that leads to mortality. Yohimbine (YBH) is an α-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-fibrotic activity of YBH against LPS/TGF-β-induced differentiation in BEAS-2B/LL29 cells and bleomycin (BLMN) induced pulmonary fibrosis model in rats. Network pharmacology, gene expression, Western-blot analysis, immune-cytochemistry/immunohistochemistry, lung function and histology techniques were used to assess the fibrotic marker expression/levels in cells or rat lung tissues. YBH treatment significantly attenuated the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory (identified through a network-pharmacology approach) and oxidative stress markers expression in lung epithelial cells. TGF-β stimulation significantly elevated the fibrotic cascade of markers and treatment with YBH attenuated these markers’ expression/levels. Intra-tracheal administration of BLMN caused a significant elevation of various inflammatory/oxidative stress and fibrotic markers expression in lung tissues and treatment with YBH significantly mitigated the same. Ashcroft score analysis revealed that BLMN exhibited severe distortion of the lungs, elevation of thickness of the alveolar walls and accumulation of collagen in tissues, further treatment with YBH significantly suppressed these events and improved the lung architecture. Lung functional parameters demonstrated that BLMN-induced stiffness and resistance were reduced considerably upon YBH treatment and restored lung function dose-dependently. Overall, this study reveals that YBH treatment significantly attenuated the BLMN-induced fibrosis by regulating the MAPK pathway and provided insightful information for progressing towards translational outcomes.

Natural Remedies and Health; A Review of Bee Pollen and Bee Bread Impact on Combating Diabetes and Obesity.

Diabetes and obesity are complicated multifactorial conditions that have been highlighted as a significant global burden for both health care and national budgets and their complications are considered a substantial public health concern. This review focuses on the potential anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties of bee pollen (BP) and bee bread (BB), two bee products with a long history of use in traditional medicine and supplemental nutrition. Recent studies, encompassing cellular models, experimental models, and clinical trials, have shed light on the therapeutic potential of these bee products. BP and BB are rich in phytochemical constituents like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are believed to confer their anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity properties. These bee products have shown promising results in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, underscoring their potential as natural therapeutic tools. BP and BB possess properties that aid in decreasing blood glucose levels and body weight. BP and BB have been found to enhance insulin sensitivity, alleviate oxidative stress, regulate appetite, adjust levels of hormones linked to obesity, while bolstering anti-oxidant defense systems. BP and BB nutritional qualities and health benefits make them promising candidates for further research towards diabetes and obesity treatment strategies.

Effectiveness of Novel Drug Delivery System using Curcumin in Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a form of brain degeneration that gradually impairs a person's memory and cognitive skills, eventually making it harder for them to perform everyday activities. Its pathophysiology has been attributed to the deposition of amyloid β (Aβ), neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), and α-synuclein (A-s) in some cases. Presently, 4 drugs have been approved for the treatment. They are Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine and Memantine. The first three are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, while memantine is an NMDA receptor antagonist. Even though these medications are successful in treating mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, they have not been able to reverse the disease or even slow its progression completely. Hence, natural products are gaining more popularity due to the advantage of the multitarget intervention effect. The most investigated spice, Curcuma longa's bioactive component, curcumin, has demonstrated anti-amyloid, anti-NFT, and anti-Lewy body properties and substantial antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic properties. However, its proven neuroprotective activity is hampered by many factors, such as poor water solubility and bioavailability. Therefore, many novel formulations have been designed to improve its bioavailability with methods such as 1) Micellar Solubilization, 2) Cyclodextrin Complexation, 3) Crystal Modification, and 4) Particle Size Reduction, etc. The current chapter aims to summarize various novel formulations of curcumin and their effectiveness in treating AD.

In vitro Study on Antioxidant and Antiglycation Activities, and Molecular Docking of Moroccan Medicinal Plants for Diabetes

Background: Moroccan medicinal plants with historical usage to treat diabetes have been analyzed to explore their potential anti-glycation and antioxidant activities through in vitro experiments. These investigations have been complemented by molecular docking. Methods: The present study has examined the in vitro antioxidant and antiglycation properties of six aqueous extracts from six medicinal plants (Ammodaucus leucotrichus, Thymelaea hirsuta, Arbutus unedo, Urtica dioica, Ptychotis verticillata, and Caralluma europaea), and two seeds oils from Argania spinosa and Opuntia dillenii. The antioxidant activity was determined by using the DPPH radical scavenging activity test and β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching assay. In addition, the antiglycation activity was detected by using the hemoglobin protein model. Results: All studied plant extracts have shown potent antioxidant and antiglycation activity. Furthermore, to confirm the in silico antiglycation activity of the selected medicinal plants, molecular docking techniques were used assuming that binding energy decreases as compound affinity increases; the best molecules responsible for the remarkable antiglycation activity have also been highlighted. Conclusion: Antidiabetic herbal medicines are responsible for the inhibition of oxidative activity and glycation. The molecular docking analysis showed catechin, kaempferol-O-acetylhexoside, luteolin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, quercetin, and zeaxanthin, to have a high affinity to AGEs receptor and a potent inhibitory activity.

Tanshinone Alleviates UVA-induced Melanogenesis in Melanocytes via the Nrf2-regulated Antioxidant Defense Signaling Pathway.

As a complex of natural plant compounds, tanshinone is renowned for its remarkable antioxidant properties. However, the potential impact of tanshinone on melanocyte pigmentation regulation has yet to be elucidated. This study aimed to explore the protective effects of tanshinone I (T-I) and dihydrotanshinone (DHT) on melanogenesis by modulating nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling and antioxidant defenses in human epidermal melanocyte (HEM) cells. HEM cells and Nrf2 knockdown HEM cells were subjected to ultraviolet A (UVA) and treated with T-I and/or DHT. Then, the anti-melanogenic properties of T-I and DHT were examined by assessing tyrosinase activity, melanogenesis-related proteins, and melanin content in UVA-irradiated HEM cells. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of T-I and DHT were evaluated by assessing oxidant formation and modulation of Nrf2-related antioxidant defenses, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) content, and the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase (CAT), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Our findings revealed that T-I and DHT diminished melanogenesis in UVAirradiated HEM cells, activated Nrf2-antioxidant response element signaling, and enhanced antioxidant defenses in the irradiated cells. Furthermore, Nrf2 knockdown by shRNA abolished the anti-melanogenesis effects of T-I and DHT on HEM cells against oxidative damage. These results suggest that T-I and DHT inhibit UVA-induced melanogenesis in HEM cells, possibly through redox mechanisms involving Nrf2 signaling activation and increased antioxidant defenses. This indicates that T-I and DHT have potential as whitening agents in cosmetics and medical treatments for hyperpigmentation disorders.

Silicone-based AC102-loaded cochlear implant coatings protect residual hearing in an animal model of cochlear implantation

Cochlear implant users with residual hearing benefit synergistically from combined electrical stimulation via the cochlear implant and preserved residual hearing after surgery. However, direct mechanical trauma and subsequent inflammation may deteriorate hearing function. AC102, a novel otoprotective pyridoindole with anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative properties significantly improved hearing recovery following cochlear implantation when administered intratympanically prior to surgery. Additionally, AC102 exerts neurotrophic effects, possibly aiding in the preservation of auditory nerve fibers and spiral ganglion neurons. Rapid clearance of the drug, however, might be a limiting factor to further attenuate the inflammatory response and maintain neuronal health. The aim of the current study was to design an AC102-loaded electrode array for sustained drug delivery and investigate its effects in hearing preservation cochlear implantation.First, the release-kinetics of AC102 were investigated in vitro and modelled by the Higuchi equation of drug release. An electrode array coated with 10% AC102 was manufactured, its release kinetics evaluated, and subsequently tested in vivo. 20 normal hearing Mongolian gerbils were unilaterally implanted with an AC102-loaded or an unloaded control electrode. Compound action potentials were measured prior to cochlear implantation and serially over 28 days. Hair cells, inner hair cell synapses, and auditory nerve fibers were quantified in cochlear whole-mounts by immunofluorescence staining.AC102 release from silicone coating could be predictably modelled by the Higuchi equation of drug release. The electrode array with an AC102-silicone depot enabled non-linear sustained drug release with initially higher release concentrations. In vivo, the AC102-loaded electrode array significantly recovered auditory threshold shifts near the maximum insertion depth over 28 days. In the apical region, a significant recovery was noticed only until day 14, after which threshold shifts aligned between groups. Histologically, AC102-loaded electrodes significantly preserved outer hair cells apical of the maximum insertion depth and inner hair cells and neuronal structures at the tip of the inserted electrode.In conclusion, the drug-loaded electrode arrays could predictably release AC102 over a period of 28 days. AC102 enabled the restoration of auditory thresholds near the area of maximum insertion, which is the desired region to be preserved in cochlear implant recipients with residual hearing.

Medicated herbal chewing Gum to treat ulcers in mouth using Licorice and Capsicum annuum

This study explores the formulation and evaluation of herbal chewing gum containing extracts from Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Capsicum Annuum, aimed at treating mouth ulcers. Licorice derived from roots. are known for their medicinal properties, it contains glycyrrhizin which is responsible for its sweet taste, including effects on sore throats, reduce inflammation and aid digestion. They contain various chemical compounds flavonoids such as such as liquirtin, rhamnoliquirilin, liquiritigenin, prenyllicoflavone A, glucoliquiritin apioside, metho-xyphaseolin, shinpterocarpin, shinflavanone, licopyranocoumarin, glisoflavone, licoarylcoumarin, coumarin-GU-12 and saponins namely glycyrrhizin flavonoids. While Capscicum annuum is recognized for its anti-oxidant, analgesic, insecticidal and anti ulcer properties, containing phytochemicals like carotenoids, flavonoids, capsaicinoids, phenolic compounds, vitamins and minerals. The preparation of the herbal chewing gum involved incorporating these extracts along with other necessary ingredients. Triethanolamine was added to adjust the pH to a suitable range (6.7-7.2) for oral mucosa compatibility. The study emphasizes that chewing gums serve as mobile drug delivery systems, allowing for the incorporation of herbal medicines for treating mouth ulcers. The convenience of chewing gum enables self-medication without the need for water, with active substances being released during chewing. This method facilitates local treatment of mouth diseases and systemic delivery through absorption via the buccal mucosa the herbal chewing gum represents an effective drug delivery system.

Combined Bisoprolol and Trimetazidine ameliorate Arsenic trioxide -Induced Acute Myocardial Injury in Rats: Targeting PI3K/GSK-3β/Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB/iNOS Signaling Pathways, Inflammatory Mediators and Apoptosis

Background Arsenic-trioxide (ATO) is an effective therapy for acute promyelocytic leukemia. Unfortunately, its utility is hindered by the risk of myocardial injury. Both bisoprolol (BIS) and trimetazidine (TMZ) have various pharmacological features, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Aim The cardioprotective effects of BIS and TMZ were studied, and their mechanistic role in ameliorating ATO-induced myocardial injury. Materials and Methods Forty male Wistar rats were randomly allotted into five groups as follows: normal control group (received normal saline, orally), ATO group (7.5 mg/kg, orally), BIS (8 mg/kg, orally), TMZ (60 mg/kg, orally), and finally combination group (BIS + TMZ + ATO). Following 21 days, samples of serum and cardiac tissues were obtained to perform biochemical, molecular, and histopathological investigations. Results The present study showed that ATO caused myocardial injury evidenced by changes in serum biomarkers (Aspatate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase-MB, and cardiac troponin-1), electrolyte imbalance, and lipid profiles alongside histopathologic changes. In addition, ATO administration significantly elevated malondialdehyde, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen oxidase, myloperoxidase, total nitrite, inducible nitric oxide synthase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, nuclear factor NF-kappa-B p65 subunit, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta, and caspase-3 expression contemporaneously with down-regulation of reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, heme oxygenase 1, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, p-PI3K, and Bcl-2 expression. Interestingly, pre-treatment with BIS and TMZ significantly reversed the detrimental effects of ATO-induced myocardial injury at both cellular and molecular levels. Otherwise, combining the two drugs displayed more enhancement than each drug alone. Conclusion The present research depicted that BIS and TMZ have the potential to protect the heart and provide therapeutic benefits by preventing acute heart injury induced by ATO. This is achieved by reversing the redox-sensitive pathway, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting apoptosis.

Gossypetin Alleviates DSS-induced Colitis by Regulating COX2 and ROS-JNK Signaling.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) represents a chronic and recurrent inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract, with a rising global incidence. Current treatment approaches include surgery and drugs. However, surgeries are invasive procedures, while drug treatments often present with various side effects. Gossypetin, a flavonoid found abundantly in plants such as hibiscus, exhibits anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. However, its potential impact on IBD remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of gossypetin on colitis. We employed the DSS-induced colitis model to evaluate the therapeutic potential of gossypetin on colitis. The efficacy of gossypetin was assessed within this model using the Disease Activity Index (DAI) score and histological analysis. Additionally, we utilized qRT-PCR to measure the levels of inflammatory cytokines and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Immunohistochemistry confirmed the expression of tight junction markers, COX-2, and phosphorylated JNK protein, normally associated with disease progression. Furthermore, Western blot analysis was conducted to examine the SOD levels and anti-apoptotic effects of gossypetin. In DSS-induced colitis mice, gossypetin treatment ameliorated weight loss and reduced colon length caused by DSS treatment. Additionally, gossypetin-treated groups exhibited DAI scores and reduced histological damage. Moreover, gossypetin treatment increased tight junction expression, decreased inflammatory responses, reduced ROS levels, attenuated JNK signaling, and decreased apoptosis. Gossypetin shows therapeutic potential for mitigating the symptoms and progression of colitis by targeting ROS-JNK signaling involved in inflammation and tissue damage. This highlights the potential of natural compounds such as gossypetin for targeted therapies with reduced side effects and improved efficacy.

In vitro evaluation of the antitumor and antioxidant effects of purified and characterized polysaccharides from Ganoderma applanatum

Background In this study, the chemical properties of Ganoderma applanatum polysaccharides (GAP) were systematically investigated, followed by a comprehensive analysis of their antitumor and antioxidant capabilities. Methods Ultrasonic circulation technology was employed for the extraction of GAP, facilitating the procurement of crude polysaccharides through the Sevag method, dialysis, and sequential alcohol precipitation. The chemical constituents of these polysaccharides were subsequently analyzed utilizing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antitumor and antioxidant properties of the polysaccharide components were assessed utilizing 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and free radical scavenging methods, respectively. Results Gradient ethanol precipitation yielded three principal polysaccharide fractions: GAP-40, GAP-60 and GAP-80. Analysis revealed glucose as the predominant component in these fractions, with average molecular weights determined to be 77.75, 9.25 and 1.03 kDa, respectively. The antitumor activity of GAP-40, GAP-60 and GAP-80 against MCF-7 cells demonstrated both time and concentration dependence. Significantly, GAP-40, at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL over 48 h, presented a notable inhibition rate of 56.77%, outperforming GAP-60 and GAP-80. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacities of GAP-40, GAP-60 and GAP-80 were comparably significant to that of vitamin C, with detailed analysis revealing marked differences in antioxidant activity among the GAP variants. Specifically, GAP-40 exhibited superior efficacy in scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) radicals relative to GAP-60 and GAP-80. In contrast, GAP-80 was distinguished by its exceptional hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity, surpassing that of both GAP-40 and GAP-60. Conclusion These results substantiate the potential of GAPs as viable and effective antitumor agents, additionally suggesting their utility as functional foods endowed with antioxidant attributes.

Resveratrol Enhances the Efficacy of Combined BM-MSCs Therapy for Rat Spinal Cord Injury via Modulation of the Sirt-1/NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a severe trauma to the central nervous system, resulting in significant disability and imposing heavy burdens on families and society. Pathophysiological changes following SCI often trigger secondary injuries that complicate treatment. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) have become a focal point of research due to their multifunctionality and self-renewal capabilities; however, their survival and neuroprotective functions are compromised in inflammatory environments. Resveratrol, known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anti-oxidative stress properties, has been extensively studied. This research focuses on the anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol post-SCI and its combined application with BM-MSCs to treat rat spinal cord injuries, exploring both efficacy and mechanisms. In vivo experiments investigated changes in the Sirt-1 signaling pathway post-SCI, while in vitro studies examined the effects of resveratrol on BM-MSCs under inflammatory conditions. The assessment included recovery of motor function, neuronal survival, and apoptosis in SCI rats treated with resveratrol alone or in combination with BM-MSCs. Findings reveal a correlation between Sirt-1 and inflammation signaling pathways post-injury. Resveratrol significantly enhanced the survival and efficacy of BM-MSCs in inflammatory environments by upregulating Sirt-1 and downregulating NF-κB and other inflammatory markers, thereby reducing apoptosis. Combined treatment with resveratrol and BM-MSCs showed superior outcomes in motor function recovery and neuronal survival compared to treatment with BM-MSCs alone. This study offers a novel therapeutic strategy for SCI, enhancing stem cell survival and function through modulation of the Sirt-1/NF-κB pathway, providing a theoretical and experimental foundation for clinical applications.

Evaluation of pathways involved in the protective effect of trans sodium crocetinate against contrast-induced nephropathy in rats.

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the most important side effect following contrast media application. The purpose of this study was to investigate the nephroprotective effects of trans sodium crocetinate (TSC) against sodium amidotrizoate/meglumine amidotrizoate (SAMA).Wistar rats were classified into eight groups (n = 6, male, 220-250g) including (1) sham, injection of solvents (intraperitoneally; i.p.), (2) premedication-control, N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10mg/kg, i.p.) + indomethacin (IND, 10mg/kg, i.p.), (3) model (L-NAME + IND + SAMA (12.5ml/kg, i.p.)), (4-6) TSC 10, 20, and 40mg/kg/day, 7 days, i.p., and L-NAME + IND + SAMA, (7) N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 125mg/kg/day, 7 days, i.p.) and L-NAME + IND + SAMA, (8) TSC alone (40mg/kg/day, 7 days, i.p.). Rats were injected with L-NAME, IND, and SAMA 40h after water deprivation.SAMA caused the enhancement of histopathological damage in kidney tissue, biochemical factors (serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine), and oxidative stress. Moreover, SAMA increased inflammation (TNF-α), apoptosis proteins(Caspase 3-cleaved and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio), and autophagy markers (Beclin-1 and LC3 II/I ratio). TSC declined biochemical factors and oxidative stress. Also, TSC 40mg/kg decreased histopathological damage, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy markers.This study demonstrated that TSC has nephroprotective effects through anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, as well as regulating autophagy.

Effects of Resveratrol on Adipocytes: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

Obesity, a prevalent global health issue, arises from an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure, leading to the expansion of adipose tissue and metabolic dysfunction. White adipose tissue (WAT) stores energy as lipids, while brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a pivotal role in energy dissipation through adaptive thermogenesis. Recent research initiatives have focused on finding strategies to decrease adipogenesis and fat mass accumulation and increase thermogenesis. Finding chemicals with anti-obesity properties would be beneficial. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound abundantly found in the skin of grapes and red wine, possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-obesity properties. This literature review examines the effects of resveratrol on adipocytes in culture and adipose tissue in animal models of obesity. The existing evidence indicates that resveratrol may exert its anti-obesity effects by inhibiting adipogenesis, promoting the apoptosis of mature adipocytes, reducing lipid accumulation, and increasing thermogenesis. Further research utilizing animal and clinical studies is required to understand in detail the anti-obesity potential of resveratrol.

Therapeutic Dose of Zinc Aspartate and Zinc Citrate Attenuates Disease Activity Indices in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Zinc aspartate and zinc citrate have been used as zinc supplements in different health conditions. Taking into consideration their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-oxidant and antimicrobial properties, the present study has been designed to analyse the effect of zinc aspartate and zinc citrate treatment at therapeutic dose level on disease severity index, haematological, serological, antimicrobial and radiological markers of rheumatoid arthritis in Wistar rats. Bactericidal potential of the two organic zinc compounds was analysed in vitro in clinically isolated Escherichia coli. Arthritis was induced in male Wistar rats by intradermal injection of an emulsion containing collagen type II and Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) containing 1mgmL-1 Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra. Zinc aspartate and zinc citrate were orally administered after the onset of the disease for 4weeks. Ameliorative effect of zinc aspartate and zinc citrate was evaluated by analysing indices of severity and disease activity markers of rheumatoid arthritis. The liver and kidney function tests were performed to evaluate any possible adverse effect of compounds. Antimicrobial activity of the zinc compounds was assessed in clinically isolated E. coli by MTT assay. Zinc aspartate and zinc citrate equivalent to a therapeutic dose of 50mg/day of elemental zinc attenuated the clinical characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis in the animal model of arthritis, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Both zinc salts also exhibited antimicrobial effects against E. coli. The selected dose of zinc aspartate and zinc citrate showed no adverse effects in treated rats. This study highlights the potentiality of zinc compounds as antiarthritic agents and also point to its preventive effects on microbial growth that has been observed in rheumatoid arthritis patients due to their increased sensitivity for bacterial infection.

Abstract 4137895: Serum High-density Lipoprotein-Associated Paraoxonase-1 Levels Predict Recurrent Cardiovascular Events after Stent Implantation in Patients with Stable Angina Pectoris

Background: Poor clinical outcomes for patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation have been reported. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is well-established as a negative risk factor for coronary artery disease, and its anti-oxidant property has been attributed mainly to the HDL-bound enzyme paraoxonase-1 (PON-1). Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a pro-oxidant enzyme released from activated neutrophils, has been shown to alter the atheroprotective function of HDL to a dysfunctional form. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between plasma MPO and serum PON-1 levels after implantation of DES in patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP) with and without HD. Methods: Serum PON-1 concentrations and PON-arylesterase activity were measured in 183 patients with SAP after DES implantation (HD group, n=37; non-HD group, n=146) with a sandwich ELISA method. Cardiovascular events were defined as sudden cardiac death, fatal or non-fatal myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction and other non-fatal events including unstable angina pectoris or coronary revascularization. Results: Serum PON-1 concentrations and PON-arylesterase activity were significantly lower in the HD group than in the non-HD group (PON-1 concentrations, P<0.0001; PON-arylesterase activity, P<0.0001). In addition, plasma MPO in patients undergoing HD were significantly higher than in patients not undergoing HD (P<0.0001). Moreover, plasma MPO showed a significant inverse correlation with serum PON-1 concentrations and PON-arylesterase activity (concentration: R= -0.24, P=0.0013; arylesterase-activity: R=-0.24, P=0.0014). Cardiovascular event rates were significantly higher in the HD group than in the non-HD group (67.6% vs. 43.8%, P<0.01). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the low-PON-1 group (<58.0 mg/mL, median) had a significantly worse outcome than the high-PON-1 group ( P =0.013). Multivariate analysis showed that a low serum PON-1 concentration was the only independent predictor of cardiovascular events (odds ratio, 1.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.10 to 3.40, P =0.024). Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that plasma MPO have a significant inverse correlation with PON-1 in patients undergoing HD and suggest that an imbalance between pro-oxidants and anti-oxidants may contribute to the progression and destabilization of human coronary atherosclerotic lesions in patients with SAP who undergo HD following DES implantation.

Nephroprotective effects of the soluble guanylyl cyclase stimulator, riociguat in doxorubicin-induced acute kidney injury in rats

This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of riociguat, a soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) stimulator, on kidney function and structure in rats with acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DX). Rats were subjected to a single intraperitoneal injection of DX (13.5 mg/kg) on the 5th day, either alone or in combination with low-dose riociguat (3 mg/kg/day), or high-dose riociguat (10 mg/kg/day) for 8 consecutive days. Various markers related to kidney function, oxidative stress, and inflammation were measured in plasma and urine. Kidney tissues were examined histopathologically. DX-induced nephrotoxicity was characterized by increased plasma urea, creatinine, uric acid and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). DX also decreased creatinine clearance and albumin levels and increased urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity. Furthermore, DX increased the inflammatory markers interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). DX further induced oxidative stress injury evidenced by decreased glutathione reductase (GR) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Concomitant treatment with riociguat ameliorated these DX-induced changes with parallel histopathological improvements but the effects were more favorable with high-dose riociguat. The observed renoprotective effects of riociguat can be partly attributed to the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of this drug.

Investigation of Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Berberine Nanomicelles: In vitro and In vivo Studies.

In the present study, neuroprotective effects of berberine (BBR) and berberine nanomicelle (BBR-NM) against lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced stress oxidative were investigated, and compared by evaluating their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in PC12 cells, and rat brains. A fast, green, and simple synthesis method was used to prepare BBR-NMs. The prepared BBR-NMs were then characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro experiments were carried out on the LPS-treated PC12 cell lines to investigate the anti-cytotoxic and antioxidant properties of BBR-NM and BBR. The results showed that BBR-NMs with a diameter of ~100 nm had higher protective effects against ROS production and cytotoxicity induced by LPS in PC12 cells in comparison with free BBR. Moreover, in vivo experiments indicated that the activity levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), increased in the brain of LPS-treated rats administrated with BBR-NM at the optimum dose of 100 mg.kg-1. BBR-NM administration also resulted in decreased concentration of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as Serum interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Overall, BBR-NM demonstrated higher neuroprotective effects than free BBR, making it a promising treatment for improving many diseases caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

A Piper nigrum based zinc oxide nanoparticles for anti-arthritic and antioxidant activity

Background: Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are among the most effective metallic oxide nanoparticles for biological applications. They have potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, desirable biocompatibility, lower toxicity, and minimal cost. Methodology: Using diverse plant extracts for an ecologically friendly production of metallic nanoparticles is a better choice than conventional chemical synthesis techniques. The present study is decisive on the ZnONPs synthesis from a Piper nigrum extract (Pn-ZnONPs). Morphological characteristics of ZnONPs have been studied using UV-spectroscopy, DLS, SEM, and TEM. Further, it is analyzed for its anti-inflammatory (proteinase, collagenase, lipooxygenase, and elastase) and anti-oxidant properties (DPPH˙, SOD, NO, H2O2, and OH). Results and discussion: Synthesis of nanoparticles has been confirmed via visible spectroscopy with maximum absorbance of 350nm, having particle size and zeta potential of 80 nm and +7.4 mV, respectively. SEM and TEM analysis confirmed the nanoparticle's shape to be spherical and arranged compactly. Further, biogenic nanoparticles show desired anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the activity of collagenase (68.72%), elastase (65.16%), lipooxygenase (58.098%), and denaturation of protein (65.36%). It also exhibits the capability to suppress Superoxide radicals (64.87%), DPPH (65.46%), Hydrogen Peroxide (64.89%), Hydroxyl radical (68.45%), and Nitric oxide radicals (71.343%), which are responsible for the pathogenesis of many inflammatory disorders. Conclusion: This suggests that P. nigrum Zinc nanoparticles may be a promising agent in treating various inflammatory disorders, such as cancer, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, and others.