Hesperidin ameliorates H_(2)O_(2)-induced bovine mammary epithelial cell oxidative stress via the Nrf2 signaling pathway

Background Hesperidin is a citrus flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. However, its protective effects on bovine mammary epithelial cells(b MECs) exposed to oxidative stress have not been elucidated.Results In this study, we investigated the effects of hesperidin on H_(2)O_(2)-induced oxidative stress in b MECs and the underlying molecular mechanism. We found that hesperidin attenuated H_(2)O_(2)-induced cell damage by reducing reactive oxygen species(ROS) and malondialdehyde(MDA) levels, increasing catalase(CAT) activity, and improving cell proliferation and mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, hesperidin activated the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway by inducing the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and the expression of its downstream genes NQO1 and HO-1, which are antioxidant enzymes involved in ROS scavenging and cellular redox balance. The protective effects of hesperidin were blocked by the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385, indicating that they were Nrf2 dependent.Conclusions Our results suggest that hesperidin could protect b MECs from oxidative stress injury by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, suggesting that hesperidin as a natural antioxidant has positive potential as a feed additive or plant drug to promote the health benefits of bovine mammary.

Enhancement of porcine in vitro embryonic development through luteolin‑mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway

Background Oxidative stress,caused by an imbalance in the production and elimination of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS),has been recognized for its detrimental effects on mammalian embryonic development.Luteolin(Lut)has been documented for its protective effects against oxidative stress in various studies.However,its specific role in embryonic development remains unexplored.This study aims to investigate the influence of Lut on porcine embryonic development and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.Results After undergoing parthenogenetic activation(PA)or in vitro fertilization,embryos supplemented with 0.5μmol/L Lut displayed a significant enhancement in cleavage and blastocyst formation rates,with an increase in total cell numbers and a decrease in the apoptosis rate compared to the control.Measurements on D2 and D6 revealed that embryos with Lut supplementation had lower ROS levels and higher glutathione levels compared to the control.Moreover,Lut supplementation significantly augmented mitochondrial content and membrane potential.Intriguingly,activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway was observed in embryos supplemented with Lut,leading to the upregulation of antioxidant-related gene transcription levels.To further validate the relationship between the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and effects of Lut in porcine embryonic development,we cultured PA embryos in a medium supplemented with brusatol,with or without the inclusion of Lut.The positive effects of Lut on developmental competence were negated by brusatol treatment.Conclusions Our findings indicate that Lut-mediated activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway contributes to the enhanced production of porcine embryos with high developmental competence,and offers insight into the mechanisms regulating early embryonic development.

Hypoglycemic mechanism of Tegillarca granosa polysaccharides on type 2 diabetic mice by altering gut microbiota and regulating the PI3K-akt signaling pathwaye

Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a complex metabolic disease threatening human health.We investigated the effects of Tegillarca granosa polysaccharide(TGP)and determined its potential mechanisms in a mouse model of T2DM established through a high-fat diet and streptozotocin.TGP(5.1×10^(3) Da)was composed of mannose,glucosamine,rhamnose,glucuronic acid,galactosamine,glucose,galactose,xylose,and fucose.It could significantly alleviate weight loss,reduce fasting blood glucose levels,reverse dyslipidemia,reduce liver damage from oxidative stress,and improve insulin sensitivity.RT-PCR and Western blotting indicated that TGP could activate the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway to regulate disorders in glucolipid metabolism and improve insulin resistance.TGP increased the abundance of Allobaculum,Akkermansia,and Bifidobacterium,restored the microbiota abundance in the intestinal tracts of mice with T2DM,and promoted short-chain fatty acid production.This study provides new insights into the antidiabetic effects of TGP and highlights its potential as a natural hypoglycemic nutraceutical.

Reduction of the oxidative damage to H_(2)O_(2)-induced HepG2 cells via the Nrf2 signalling pathway by plant flavonoids Quercetin and Hyperoside

Hyperoside and quercetin are similar in molecular structures.In this study,the antioxidant regulatory targets of hyperoside and quercetin are mainly in the nuclear factor(erythroid-2-derived)-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathway predicted by network pharmacology.And the antioxidant effect and mechanism of hyperoside and quercetin were measured and compared in H_(2)O_(2)-induced Hep G2 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans.The findings indicated that quercetin was more effective than hyperoside in reducing oxidative damage,which was proved by improved cell viability,decreased reactive oxygen species(ROS)production,decreased cellular apoptosis,and alleviated mitochondrial damage.In addition,quercetin was more efficient than hyperoside in enhancing the expression of Nrf2-associated m RNAs,increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase(SOD),glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),and catalase(CAT),and reducing the cellular malondialdehyde(MDA)content.Quercetin was superior to hyperoside in prolonging the lifespan of worms,decreasing the accumulation of lipofuscin,inhibiting ROS production,and increasing the proportion of skn-1 in the nucleus.With the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385,we verified that quercetin and hyperoside primarily protected the cells against oxidative damage via the Nrf2 signalling pathway.Furthermore,molecular docking and dynamics simulations demonstrated that the quercetin-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1(Keap1)complex was more stable than the hyperoside-Keap1 complex.The stable structure of the complex might hinder the binding of Nrf2 and Keap1 to release Nrf2 and facilitate its entry into the nucleus to play an antioxidant role.Overall,quercetin had a better antioxidant than hyperoside.

Naringin ameliorates H_(2)O_(2)-induced oxidative damage in cells and prolongs the lifespan of female Drosophila melanogaster via the insulin signaling pathway

Naringin exists in a wide range of Chinese herbal medicine and has proven to possess several pharmacological properties.In this study,PC12,HepG2 cells,and female Drosophila melanogaster were used to investigate the antioxidative and anti-aging effects of naringin and explore the underlying mechanisms.The results showed that naringin inhibited H_(2)O_(2)-induced decline in cell viability and decreased,the content of reactive oxygen species in cells.Meanwhile,naringin prolonged the lifespan of flies,enhanced the abilities of climbing and the resistance to stress,improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes,and decreased malondialdehyde content.Naringin also improved intestinal barrier dysfunction and reduced abnormal proliferation of intestinal stem cells.Moreover,naringin down-regulated the mRNA expressions of inr,chico,pi 3k,and akt-1,and up-regulated the mRNA expressions of dilp2,dilp3,dilp5,and foxo,thereby activating autophagy-related genes and increasing the number of lysosomes.Furthermore,the mutant stocks assays and computer molecular simulation results further indicated that naringin delayed aging by inhibiting the insulin signaling(IIS)pathway and activating the autophagy pathway,which was consistent with the result of network pharmacological predictions.

X-Paste improves wound healing in diabetes via NF-E2-related factor/HO-1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Diabetic foot ulcers(DFU),as severe complications of diabetes mellitus(DM),significantly compromise patient health and carry risks of amputation and mortality.AIM To offer new insights into the occurrence and development of DFU,focusing on the therapeutic mechanisms of X-Paste(XP)of wound healing in diabetic mice.METHODS Employing traditional Chinese medicine ointment preparation methods,XP combines various medicinal ingredients.High-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)identified XP’s main components.Using streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic,we aimed to investigate whether XP participated in the process of diabetic wound healing.RNA-sequencing analyzed gene expression differences between XP-treated and control groups.Molecular docking clarified XP’s treatment mechanisms for diabetic wound healing.Human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)were used to investigate the effects of Andrographolide(Andro)on cell viability,reactive oxygen species generation,apoptosis,proliferation,and metastasis in vitro following exposure to high glucose(HG),while NF-E2-related factor-2(Nrf2)knockdown elucidated Andro’s molecular mechanisms.RESULTS XP notably enhanced wound healing in mice,expediting the healing process.RNA-sequencing revealed Nrf2 upregulation in DM tissues following XP treatment.HPLC identified 21 primary XP components,with Andro exhibiting strong Nrf2 binding.Andro mitigated HG-induced HUVECs proliferation,metastasis,angiogenic injury,and inflammation inhibition.Andro alleviates HG-induced HUVECs damage through Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation,with Nrf2 knockdown reducing Andro’s proliferative and endothelial protective effects.CONCLUSION XP significantly promotes wound healing in STZ-induced diabetic models.As XP’s key component,Andro activates the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway,enhancing cell proliferation,tubule formation,and inflammation reduction.

Exploring the mechanism of electroacupuncture at different acupoints on acute colitis rats based on JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the mechanism of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway in electroacupuncture of different acupoints on acute colitis rats.Methods:36 SPF SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups,with 6 rats in each group.The rat model of acute colitis was prepared by enema with glacial acetic acid solution.After the model was established,electroacupuncture was given to each acupoint group,with density wave,frequency 2Hz-50 Hz,intensity 2 mA,muscle tremor as the degree 20 min/time,1 time/day,for 3 consecutive days.Observe the general condition of rats;the pathological changes of colonic mucosa in rats were observed by HE method.The contents of serum interleukin-4(IL-4)and interleukin-8(IL-8)were detected by ELISA.Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the expression of JAK2,STAT3,SOCS1 protein and mRNA in rat colon tissue.Results:In contrast to the normal group,the overall condition of the model group was worse,the colonic mucosa was severely damaged,even necrotic,and the ulcer surface was obvious.The content of IL-4 in serum was obviously reduced,and the content of IL-8 was obviously go up(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously go up,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously reduced(P<0.01).In contrast to the model group,the general condition of rats in each acupoint group was significantly improved,the damage and necrosis of colonic mucosa and ulcer surface were obviously alleviated,the content of IL-4 in serum was obviously go up,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously reduced,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Comparison of different acupoint groups,the colonic mucosal injury in the Zusanli group was significantly reduced,the content of serum IL-4 was significantly increased,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).The protein content and mRNA expression of JAK2 and STAT3 in colon tissue were significantly down-regulated,while the protein content and mRNA expression of SOCS1 were significantly go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Conclusion:Electroacupuncture at each acupoint can improve the damage of colonic mucosa and reduce the inflammatory response.The therapeutic effect of Zusanli(ST36)is better than that of Tianshu(ST25),Dachangshu(BL25)and Shangjuxu(ST37).The mechanism may be related to the regulation of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway related proteins and inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-8.

Oleanolic acid inhibits colon cancer cell stemness and reverses chemoresistance by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Background:Oleanolic acid(OA),a pentacyclic triterpenoid exhibiting specific anti-cancer properties and highly effective antioxidant activity,was isolated from traditional Chinese medicinal herbs.Conversely,the OA that impacts colon cancer(CC)cells and its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.Methods:The cytotoxic effect of OA alone or OA-5-Fluorouracil(5-FU)combination on normal and CC cells was analyzed by methyl thiazolyl diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide(MTT).Then,the impact of OA on CC cell lines(LoVo and HT-29)proliferation and stemness were measured using colon formation and tumorsphere formation assays.Octamer-binding transcription factor 4(Oct4),Prominin-1(CD133),Nanog,and transcription factor SOX-2(SOX2)are cell stemness-related indicators whose expression was assessed usingfluorescence qPCR assay,Western blotting,and immunohistochemistry.The effect of OA on the proliferative potency of CC cells was evaluated using an in vivo model.Results:The stem-like characteristics and clone production of colon cancer cells were markedly reduced by OA alone or in combination with OA-5-FU.Moreover,OA increases the susceptibility of CC cells to 5-FU by blocking the cell stemness-related markers(CD133,Nanog,SOX2,and Oct4)expression levels both in vitro and in vivo,as well as by inactivating the activator of transcription 3(STAT3 signaling)and Janus kinase 2/signal transducer(JAK2).Conclusion:Thesefindings imply that oleanolic acid,both in vitro and in vivo,suppresses the JAK2/STAT3 pathway,which in turn reverses chemoresistance and decreases colon cancer cell stemness.Therefore,by reducing the recommended amount of 5-FU,this strategy may improve chemotherapeutic effectiveness and minimize undesired side effects.

Comparative study of anti-inflammatory effects of different processed products through the COX-2/PGE2 signaling pathway: based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

Background:Radix Aconiti Lateralis Preparata(Fu-zi)is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb,which has been widely used in the clinic and has potent anti-inflammatory activities.we aimed to explore the mechanisms of extract containing alkaloids from different Fu-zi Processed Products(FPP)in treating inflammation,especially rheumatoid arthritis(RA).Methods:Firstly,using network pharmacology technology,the ingredients,and targets of Fu-zi were obtained by searching and screening,the targets involving RA were acquired,the intersection targets were constructed a"component-target-pathway"network.A comprehensive investigation was conducted on the anti-rheumatoid arthritis mechanisms of 5 FPPs in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)induced RAW264.7 cells,which serve as a model for RA.The production of NO and inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA kit.Quantitative Real-time PCR(qRT-PCR)was utilized to measure the mRNA levels.COX-2/PGE2 signaling pathway-associated proteins were determined by western blot.Results:According to a network pharmacological study,16 chemical components and 43 common targets were found in Fu-zi and 6 key targets including PTGS2 were closely related to the mechanism of Fu-zi in treating RA.The in vitro study revealed that the levels of NO,TNF-α,and IL-1βwere substantially decreased by the 5 FPPs.The 5 FPPs significantly suppressed the expression of proteins COX-2,iNOS,and NF-κB,with particularly notable effects observed for PFZ and XFZ.Conclusion:Altogether,these results demonstrated that the 5 PPS containing alkaloids have a good anti-RA-related inflammatory effect,and the mechanism may be related to COX-2/PGE2 signaling pathway,particularly,Fu-zi prepared utilizing a traditional Chinese technique.

Anti-diabetic potential of apigenin,luteolin,and baicalein via partially activating PI3K/Akt/GLUT-4 signaling pathways in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells

Dietary flavonoids are abundant in natural plants and possess multiple pharmacological and nutritional activities.In this study,apigenin,luteolin,and baicalein were chosen to evaluate their anti-diabetic effect in high-glucose and dexamethasone induced insulin-resistant(IR)HepG2 cells.All flavonoids improves the glucose consumption and glycogen synthesis abilities in IR-HepG2 cells via activating glucose transporter protein 4(GLUT4)and phosphor-glycogen synthase kinase(GSK-3β).These fl avonoids signifi cantly inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and advanced glycation end-products(AGEs),which were closely related to the suppression of the phosphorylation form of NF-κB and P65.The expression levels of insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1),insulin receptor substrate-2(IRS-2)and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt)pathway in IR-HepG2 cells were all partially activated by the fl avonoids,with variable effects.Furthermore,the intracellular metabolic conditions of the fl avonoids were also evaluated.

Water Extract of Rice False Smut Balls Activates Nrf2/HO-1 and Apoptosis Pathways,Causing Liver Injury

Ustiloxins are vital cyclopeptide mycotoxins originally isolated from rice false smut balls that form in rice spikelets infected by the fungal pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens.The toxicity of the water extract of rice false smut balls(RBWE) remains to be investigated.Studies have shown that RBWE may be toxic to animals,but toxicological evidence is still lacking.In this study,we found that the IC50 values of RBWE to BNL CL.2 cells at 24 and 48 h were 40.02 and 30.11 μg/m L,respectively,with positive correlations with dose toxicity and time toxicity.After treatment with RBWE,the number of BNL CL.2 cells decreased significantly,and the morphology of BNL CL.2 cells showed atrophy and wall detachment.RBWE induced DNA presynthesis phase arrest of BNL CL.2 cells,increased the proportion of apoptotic cells and inhibited cell proliferation.RBWE up-regulated reactive oxygen species(ROS) levels and lowered mitochondrial membrane potentials.Additionally,Western blot and q RT-PCR results suggested that RBWE exerted the above effects by promoting the Nrf2/HO-1 and caspase-induced apoptosis pathways in vitro and in vivo.The contents of alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase,alkaline phosphatase,and total bile acids in the serum of mice from Institute of Cancer were significantly up-regulated by RBWE.At the same time,RBWE can lead to increases in ROS and malondialdehyde contents,decreases in contents of oxidized glutathione,glutathione and reduced glutathione,as well as decrease in catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in mouse liver tissues,demonstrating that oxidative stress occurred in mice.Moreover,liver damage was further detected by haematoxylin-eosin staining and electron microscopy to verify the damage to the mice caused by RBWE.In general,RBWE may cause hepatotoxicity in vivo and in vitro via the apoptosis pathway,which provides a reference for hepatotoxicity and its mechanism of action.

CK2αcauses stemness and chemotherapy resistance in liver cancer through the Hedgehog signaling pathway

Background:Liver cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths globally.Cancer cell stem-ness and chemotherapy resistance contribute to the high mortality.Although evidence indicates that the alpha subunit of protein kinase 2(CK2α)is involved in several human cancers,its function in liver cancer remains unknown.In the present study,we aimed to elucidate the role of CK2αin liver cancer.Methods:We examined the role of CK2αregulation in stemness and chemotherapy resistance capacity of liver cancer cells.MTT assays,tumor sphere formation assays,RT-PCR,flow cytometry,Western blotting assay,clonogenicity assay,matrigel invasion assay and bioinformatics were conducted in this study.Results:CK2αexpression in the liver cancer tissues was notably upregulated compared with that in the corresponding non-tumorous tissues.The overexpression of CK2αpromoted tumor sphere formation,increased the percentage of CD133(+)and side population cells,caused the resistance of liver cancer cells to 5-FU treatment,increased the expression levels of NANOG,OCT4,SOX2,Gli1 and Ptch1,and enhanced the ability of CD133(+)cell clone formation and invasion.Consistently,the downregulation of CK2αhad the opposite effects.CK2αsilencing inhibited the Hedgehog pathway by reducing the expression of Gli1 and Ptch1.Mechanistically,CK2αregulation on liver cancer cell stemness and chemotherapy resistance was found to be involved in the Hedgehog signaling pathway.Conclusions:Our study may bring some new insights into the occurrence of liver cancer.Furthermore,these findings suggest that targeting CK2αmay be a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with liver cancer.

Adenosine 2A receptor contributes to the facilitation of postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome by γδ T cells via the PKA/CREB/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Immunological dysfunction-induced low-grade inflammation is regarded as one of the predominant pathogenetic mechanisms in post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome(PI-IBS).γδT cells play a crucial role in innate and adaptive immunity.Adenosine receptors expressed on the surface ofγδT cells participate in intestinal inflammation and immunity regulation.AIM To investigate the role ofγδT cell regulated by adenosine 2A receptor(A2AR)in PI-IBS.METHODS The PI-IBS mouse model has been established with Trichinella spiralis(T.spiralis)infection.The intestinal A2AR and A2AR inγδT cells were detected by immunohistochemistry,and the inflammatory cytokines were measured by western blot.The role of A2AR on the isolatedγδT cells,including proliferation,apoptosis,and cytokine production,were evaluated in vitro.Their A2AR expression was measured by western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR).The animals were administered with A2AR agonist,or A2AR antagonist.Besides,γδT cells were also injected back into the animals,and the parameters described above were examined,as well as the clinical features.Furthermore,the A2AR-associated signaling pathway molecules were assessed by western blot and RT-PCR.RESULTS PI-IBS mice exhibited elevated ATP content and A2AR expression(P<0.05),and suppression of A2AR enhanced PI-IBS clinical characteristics,indicated by the abdominal withdrawal reflex and colon transportation test.PI-IBS was associated with an increase in intestinal T cells,and cytokine levels of interleukin-1(IL-1),IL-6,IL-17A,and interferon-α(IFN-α).Also,γδT cells expressed A2AR in vitro and generated IL-1,IL-6,IL-17A,and IFN-α,which can be controlled by A2AR agonist and antagonist.Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the A2AR antagonist improved the function ofγδT cells through the PKA/CREB/NF-κB signaling pathway.CONCLUSION Our results revealed that A2AR contributes to the facilitation of PI-IBS by regulating the function ofγδT cells via the PKA/CREB/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Effects of plumbagin on migration and invasion of human hepatoma cell line via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Objective:To study the effect of plumbagin(PL)on the migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)cells and its possible mechanism.Methods:The cell counting kit(CCK-8)was used to detect the effects of different concentrations of plumbagin on the proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma Huh-7 and LM3 cells.The effect of plumbagin on the migration ability of Huh-7 and LM3 cells was detected by scratch test and Transwell migration test,and the effect of on the invasion ability of Huh-7 and LM3 cells was detected by Transwell invasion test.Western Blot was used to detect the expression of E-cadherin,N-cadherin,matrix metalloproteinase-2 and related proteins in JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in Huh-7 and LM3 cells.Results:Plumbagin could inhibit the proliferation of Huh-7 and LM3 cells in a time-and concentration-dependent manner.Plumbagin inhibited the migration and invasion of Huh-7 and LM3 cells in a concentration dependent manner,and it can down-regulate the expression of N-cadherin and MMP-2 protein,up-regulate the expression of E-cadherin protein,and inhibit the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.Conclusion:Plumbagin can inhibit the migration and invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma Huh-7 and LM3 cells,and the molecular mechanism of this process may be related to the inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway activation.

Effects of Cigu Xiaozhi Formula on miR-378a-3p Expression and Hh Signaling Pathway in TGF-β1 Induced LX2 Cells

[Objectives]To observe the effects of Cigu Xiaozhi Formula on miR-378a-3p expression and Hh signaling pathway in TGF-β1 induced and activated LX2 cells.[Methods]Cells were divided into control group,induction group,drug-containing serum group,miR-378a-3p inhibitor group,and miR inhibitor NC group.CCK-8 method was used to detect the cell viability of each group,and flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis rate of each group.RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of miR-378a-3p in each group s cells,and RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to detect mRNA and protein expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,andα-SMA in each group s cells.[Results]Compared with the control group,the cell viability and expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,andα-SMA mRNA and protein in induction group increased(P<0.01),while the expression of miR-378a-3p decreased(P<0.01).Compared with the induction group,the cell viability and expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,α-SMA mRNA andα-SMA and Gli2 protein decreased in drug-containing serum group(P<0.05),while cell apoptosis rate and miR-378a-3p expression increased(P<0.01).In miR-378a-3p inhibitor group,cell viability and the expression of Shh,Gli1,Gli2,Col-I,α-SMA mRNA and Gli1,Gli2,α-SMA protein increased(P<0.05,P<0.01),while the apoptosis rate and miR-378a-3p expression decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).[Conclusions]Cigu Xiaozhi Formula containing serum can upregulate miR-378a-3p expression and downregulate the expression of Gli2 andα-SMA in TGF-β1 induced LX2 cells,thereby inhibiting the activation of LX2 cells and exerting the effects of anti liver fibrosis.

The protective effects of peptides from Chinese baijiu on AAPH-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells via Nrf2 signaling pathway

Antioxidant peptides have been widely reported.However,only a few reports have been published examining the antioxidant peptides derived from Chinese baijiu.In this study,6 novel peptides derived from Chinese baijiu were identified successfully using high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupoletime-of-flight mass spectrometry(HPLC-QTOF-MS)with a concentration of 0.835–24.540μg/L.The underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated,and their cytoprotective effects were examined against 2,2’-azobis(2-methylpropanimidamidine)dihydrochloride(AAPH)-induced oxidative stress in Hep G2 cells.The results showed that these peptides exerted protective effects by suppressing reactive oxygen species(ROS)generation,preventing malondialdehyde(MDA)formation,and upregulating cellular antioxidant enzyme activities(SOD,CAT,and GSH-Px)in a dose-dependent manner.Further experiments proved that these peptides exerted antioxidant effects via Nrf2/ARE-mediated signaling pathway by promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation,inhibiting ubiquitination,and enhancing transcription capacity of Nrf2 in Hep G2 cells.These findings provide the molecular basis for the effects of antioxidant peptides derived from Chinese baijiu,which is important for a deeper understanding of the relationship between human health and moderate drinking.

Effect of icariin on microglia-mediated neuro-inflammation through Nrf2 signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE To investigate the protective effect of icariin(ICA) on lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced BV2 microglia injury,and to clarify the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2) signaling pathway in BV2 microglia-mediated neuroinflammation.METHODS BV2 microglia were randomly divided into control,ICA(0.1 μmol·L^(-1)),LPS(1 mg·L^(-1)),LPS + ICA(0.01 μmol·L^(-1)),and LPS + ICA(0.1 μmol·L^(-1))groups.BV2 microglia were treated with ICA for 30 min and then treated with LPS for 24 h.MTT assay was used to determine the cells survival rate,Griess kit and ELISA kits were used to detect the contents of NO,IL-1β and IL-18 in the culture supernatant,Western blotting was used to detect the expression of Nrf2,HO-1 and NQO1.Real time RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of Nrf2,HO-1 and NQO1 after ICA addition for 2,6 and 24 h.And immunofluorescence was used to observe the activation of Nrf2.RESULTS ICA reduced LPS-induced NO,IL-1β and IL-18 production in the culture supernatant,and ICA increase LPS-induced mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION ICA protects LPS induced neuroinflammation by regulating Nrf2 signaling pathway.

丹参多酚酸盐调控Nrf2/HO-1信号通路对膜性肾病大鼠氧化应激的影响

[目的]基于血清核转录因子2(Nrf2)/血红蛋白氧合酶-1(HO-1)信号通路探讨丹参多酚酸盐对膜性肾病(MN)大鼠氧化应激的影响。[方法] 80只SD雄性大鼠随机选取20只为正常对照组,其余60只大鼠均采用尾静脉注射阳离子化牛血清白蛋白(C-BSA)构建MN模型,MN模型大鼠复制成功后随机分为模型组,盐酸贝那普利组(10 mg/kg),丹参多酚酸盐分为低、中、高剂量组(16.7、33.3、66.7 mg/kg)。药物灌胃连续4周,1次/d,正常组和模型组予以相等体积的生理盐水灌胃。治疗后检测大鼠24 h尿蛋白定量(24 h UTP)。给药结束后,经大鼠腹主动脉取血检测血尿素氮(BUN),血清肌酐(Scr),三酰甘油(TG),总胆固醇(TC),总蛋白(TP),白蛋白(ALB)水平;过碘酸-六胺银(PASM)染色观察大鼠肾组织病理形态;免疫荧光检测肾组织免疫球蛋白G(IgG)、补体C3沉积情况;采用酶联免疫吸附测定法(ELISA)检测大鼠血清中超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)、丙二醛(MDA)表达情况;蛋白免疫印迹法(Western Blot)和实时荧光定量聚合酶链式反应(Real-time PCR)观察肾组织Nrf2、HO-1蛋白及Nrf2、HO-1 mRNA表达。[结果]与正常组相比,模型组大鼠肾小球出现体积增大、基底膜增厚、“钉突”形成,沿毛细血管襻有补体C3、IgG弥漫性沉积,24 h UTP、血清TG、TC水平显著升高(P<0.01),TP、ALB水平显著降低(P<0.01),BUN、SCr差异无统计学意义;血清中SOD表达显著降低(P<0.01),MDA表达显著升高(P<0.01);肾组织Nrf2、HO-1 mRNA及蛋白表达显著降低(P<0.01)。与模型组相比,各治疗组大鼠24 h UTP、血清TG、TC水平显著降低(P<0.05或P<0.01),TP、ALB水平显著升高(P<0.01),但丹参多酚酸盐低剂量组改善不明显;各治疗组肾脏病理损害明显改善;SOD表达水平显著升高(P<0.01),MDA表达水平明显降低(P<0.01);Nrf2、HO-1mRNA及蛋白表达显著升高(P<0.05或P<0.01)。[结论]丹参多酚酸盐可能通过调控Nrf2/HO-1信号通路,缓解肾组织氧化应激,进而保护肾脏及延缓疾病进展。

An exploration on the protective mechanism of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription against epididymis oxidative damage in oligoasthenospermia model rats based on Nrf2-NQO1/γ-GCS signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the protective mechanism of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription against epididymal oxidative damage in oligoasthenospermia model rats.Methods:Forty SD rats were randomly divided into blank group,model group,Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group(10g/kg)and L-carnitine group(0.1g/kg).Except blank group,all induced oligoasmospermia.The blank group and model group were given normal saline intragastric administration,the Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group was given Xuduan Zhongzi prescription solution intragastric administration,and the L-carnitine group was given L-carnitine intragastric administration.HE staining was used to observe the epididymis structure after 8 weeks.The concentration and activity rate of epididymis sperm were measured by sperm quality.MRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs in epididymis were detected by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry.Results:①HE staining:in the blank group,the epididymis tubes were arranged tightly and regularly,the tissue structure was complete,the epithelial cells were arranged orderly,and the lumen sperm were numerous and evenly distributed.The epididymis of model group showed structural atrophy,loose arrangement,enlarged mesenchyme,increased cell debris and significantly reduced sperm cells.Compared with the model group,the lumen lesions of epididymis in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly improved,and the amount of normal sperm in lumen was increased and the distribution was uniform.②Results of sperm quality comparison among each group:sperm density and sperm motility rate:compared with blank group,sperm density and sperm motility rate in other groups were significantly decreased(P<0.05),and sperm density and sperm motility rate in model group were significantly decreased(P<0.05);Compared with model group,the sperm density and motility rate in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly increased(P<0.05).③RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry:Compared with the blank group,the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs in epididymal rats in model group were significantly decreased(P<0.05),while the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCs were significantly increased in L-carnitine group and Continua seed formula group(P<0.05).Conclusion:Xuduan Zhongzi prescription can reduce oxidative stress damage and improve sperm quality of oligoasthenospermia.The mechanism may related to promoting the activation of Nrf2-NQO1/γ-GCS pathway in epididymis of oligoasthenospermia rats,and up-regulate the expressions of Nrf2,NQO1 andγ-GCS proteins.

Mechanism of hesperidin improving myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in type 2 diabetic rats through SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Objective:To observe the protective effect of hesperidin on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus and its effect on SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.Methods:50 Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to the normal control group(NC),model group,ischemia-reperfusion group(IR),hesperidin group,SIRT1 inhibitor group and hesperidin plus SIRT1 inhibitor group.In addition to NC,the rats in the remaining groups were replicated by intraperitoneal of high-fat diet combined with injection of streptozotocin for type 2 diabetic rats.After then,the myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury(MIRI)rat model was established by LAd for 30 minutes with 2 hours reperfusion.He staining was used to observe the pathological changes of myocardial tissue,and the levels of serum LDH,CK-MB and SOD,GSH and MDA in myocardial tissue were detected by kit methods,and the expression abundance of related proteins in 4-HNE and SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot;Results:Hesperidin could significantly inhibit cardiomyocyte necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration,reduce LDH activity,CK-MB and MDA level,and increase SOD activity,GSH and 4-HNE level,the differences were statistically significant when compared with IR group(P<0.01).In addition,compared with the ischemia-reperfusion group,the expressions of SIRT1,Nrf2 and HO-1 proteins in hesperidin group were significantly up-regulated,the differences were statistically significant(P<0.01);Conclusion:Hesperidin inhibits oxidative stress by activating SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway,and play a protective effect of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in diabetic rats.