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Editorial

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2 pages, 170 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Promising Potential of Caulerpa microphysa in Dermatology

by Chang-Hsun Ho and Chan-Yen Kuo

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(7), 7619-7620; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46070452 - 18 Jul 2024

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Abstract

In recent years, the search for natural compounds with therapeutic properties has gained momentum, with marine organisms emerging as rich sources of bioactive substances [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

3 pages, 162 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation

by Po-Chih Hsu, Guan-Ting Liu, Jiunn-Sheng Wu and Chan-Yen Kuo

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(3), 1921-1923; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46030125 - 29 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 834

Abstract

As a physiological defense mechanism, inflammation is a complex response to harmful stimuli [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

Research

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7 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

The Interplay between von Hippel–Lindau Tumor Suppressor Gene, Lon Protease, ROS Accumulation, and Inflammation in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

by Yao-Chou Tsai and Chan-Yen Kuo

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(10), 11296-11302; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46100671 - 11 Oct 2024

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Abstract

This study explores the role of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene and Lon protease in the development of clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC) through mechanisms involving inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in kidney cells. By examining the impact of [...] Read more.

This study explores the role of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene and Lon protease in the development of clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC) through mechanisms involving inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in kidney cells. By examining the impact of VHL on the early stages of kidney cancer development, this research highlights the contributions of inflammation and ROS, as well as the involvement of Lon protease. The findings reveal increased Lon expression and ROS levels in VHL-knockdown HK-2 cells, along with elevated phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) levels, emphasizing the complex interplay between VHL, Lon protease, inflammation, and ROS in kidney cell models. These insights point to potential therapeutic pathways for ccRCC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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14 pages, 1893 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Possible Role of NRF2 in Cell Response to OZOILE (Stable Ozonides) in Children Affected by Lichen Sclerosus of Foreskin

by Caterina Saija, Monica Currò, Salvatore Arena, Maria Paola Bertuccio, Fabiola Cassaro, Angela Simona Montalto, Michele Rosario Colonna, Daniela Caccamo, Carmelo Romeo and Pietro Impellizzeri

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 9401-9414; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090557 - 26 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, and the gold standard for treatment is the use of the very potent topical steroids, but they can have side effects. Previously, we demonstrated that OZOILE (stable ozonides) were effective in children [...] Read more.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, and the gold standard for treatment is the use of the very potent topical steroids, but they can have side effects. Previously, we demonstrated that OZOILE (stable ozonides) were effective in children affected by LS, reducing the inflammatory process and stimulating tissue regeneration of the foreskin, showing a similar efficacy to steroid treatment. In this study, the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways was evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blotting in foreskins affected by LS removed from patients untreated or treated with OZOILE or corticosteroid cream formulations for 7 days before circumcision. OZOILE induced a significant increase in NRF2 and SOD2 levels, while it did not produce change in MIF, NF-kB subunits, and MMPs in comparison to untreated foreskins. Conversely, steroid topical treatment produced a significant reduction in the expression of p65, MIF, and MMP9, but it did not cause variation in NRF2 and SOD2 levels. These results demonstrate that the use of OZOILE as cream formulation exhibits effects on NRF2 signaling, and it does not induce NF-κB activation, unlike corticosteroids. On the basis of our biochemical data, further studies evaluating the role of NRF2 signaling cascade are necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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10 pages, 1606 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibitory Effects of Naringenin on LPS-Induced Skin Inflammation by NF-κB Regulation in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

by Yoon-Jung Choy, Gyu-Ri Kim and Hyung-ui Baik

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 9245-9254; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090546 - 23 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Flavonoids are important natural compounds characterized by their extensive biological activities. Citrus flavonoids represent a significant segment of the broader flavonoid category. Naringenin, an integral part of this series, is recognized for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition, considering the lack [...] Read more.

Flavonoids are important natural compounds characterized by their extensive biological activities. Citrus flavonoids represent a significant segment of the broader flavonoid category. Naringenin, an integral part of this series, is recognized for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition, considering the lack of existing research on naringenin’s potential effectiveness and intracellular mechanisms of action in skin-related applications, especially as a cosmetic ingredient, this study aimed to explore naringenin’s role in reducing the fundamental generation of reactive oxygen species. This was achieved by examining its inhibitory effects on the expression levels of NADPH oxidase and iNOS, ultimately leading to a reduction in NO production. This research examined the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of naringenin by employing a cellular senescence model of LPS-induced HDFs. The evaluation of naringenin’s efficacy was validated through several investigative procedures, including the NF-κB luciferase assay, ELISA assay, and qRT-PCR. To verify the anti-inflammatory effectiveness of naringenin, we measured the responsive elements of NF-κB using a luciferase reporter assay. This assessment revealed that naringenin could decrease the concentration of genes activated by NF-κB. Moreover, we found that naringenin inhibited the transcriptional expression of known NF-κB-regulated inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. In addition, results from the qRT-PCR analysis indicated that naringenin facilitated a reduction in iNOS expression. Based on the data gathered and analyzed in this study, it can be conclusively inferred that naringenin possesses promising potential as a cosmetic ingredient, offering both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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13 pages, 1444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pogostemon cablin Extract Promotes Wound Healing through OR2AT4 Activation and Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory Activity

by Jung Ha Choo, Daehyun Kim, Kyoungin Min, So Young Lee and Nae Gyu Kang

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(8), 9136-9148; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46080540 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 701

Abstract

Skin healing occurs through an intricate process called wound healing which comprises four phases: coagulation and hemostasis, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and remodeling. Chronic wounds often arise because of prolonged or excessive inflammation, which hinders the healing process and wound closure. Despite the recognized [...] Read more.

Skin healing occurs through an intricate process called wound healing which comprises four phases: coagulation and hemostasis, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and remodeling. Chronic wounds often arise because of prolonged or excessive inflammation, which hinders the healing process and wound closure. Despite the recognized efficacy of Pogostemon cablin (patchouli) in wound healing, the precise mechanism of action of Pogostemon cablin extract (PCE) on inflammation and wound healing remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of PCE on cell proliferation and wound healing, as well as its anti-inflammatory activity, using in vitro experiments. We found that PCE increased cell proliferation and expression of the cell proliferation marker Ki67 and accelerated wound healing in human keratinocytes through the activation of OR2AT4. Furthermore, PCE exhibited anti-inflammatory effects by decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and -8 in lipopolysaccharide-treated and TNF-α-exposed THP-1 and HaCaT cells, respectively. Overall, these findings suggest that PCE holds therapeutic potential by promoting cell proliferation, facilitating wound healing, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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12 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ELIXCYTE^®, an Allogenic Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Product, Mitigates Osteoarthritis by Reducing Inflammation and Preventing Cartilage Degradation In Vitro

by Yu-Hsiu Chen, Yi-Pei Hung, Chih-Ying Chen, Yi-Ting Chen, Tai-Chen Tsai, Jui-Jung Yang and Chia-Chun Wu

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(8), 8395-8406; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46080495 - 2 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) comprise a promising therapy for osteoarthritis (OA). The therapeutic potential of ELIXCYTE^®, an allogeneic human ADSC (hADSC) product, was demonstrated in a phase I/II OA clinical trial. However, the exact mechanism underlying such effects is not clear. [...] Read more.

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) comprise a promising therapy for osteoarthritis (OA). The therapeutic potential of ELIXCYTE^®, an allogeneic human ADSC (hADSC) product, was demonstrated in a phase I/II OA clinical trial. However, the exact mechanism underlying such effects is not clear. Moreover, studies suggest that interleukin-11 (IL-11) has anti-inflammatory, tissue-regenerative, and immune-regulatory functions. Our aim was to unravel the mechanism associated with the therapeutic effects of ELIXCYTE^® on OA and its relationship with IL-11. We cocultured ELIXCYTE^® with normal human articular chondrocytes (NHACs) in synovial fluid obtained from individuals with OA (OA-SF) to investigate its effect on chondrocyte matrix synthesis and degradation and inflammation by assessing gene expression and cytokine levels. NHACs exposed to OA-SF exhibited increased MMP13 expression. However, coculturing ELIXCYTE^® with chondrocytes in OA-SF reduced MMP13 expression in chondrocytes and downregulated PTGS2 and FGF2 expression in ELIXCYTE^®. ELIXCYTE^® treatment elevated anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1RA, IL-10, and IL-13) levels, and the reduction in MMP13 was positively correlated with IL-11 concentrations in OA-SF. These findings indicate that IL-11 in OA-SF might serve as a predictive biomarker for the ELIXCYTE^® treatment response in OA, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of ELIXCYTE^® to mitigate OA progression and provide insights into its immunomodulatory effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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12 pages, 3423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Inflammatory Response of New Postbiotics in TNF-α/IFN-γ-Induced Atopic Dermatitis-like HaCaT Keratinocytes

by Yoo-Kyung Kim, Minji Cho and Dae-Jung Kang

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(6), 6100-6111; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46060364 - 17 Jun 2024

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Abstract

This study examines the synergistic interaction between the immunomodulatory functions of lactic acid bacteria postbiotics and the anti-inflammatory properties of Smilax china L. extract through a combined fermentation process. Using atopic dermatitis (AD) as a model, characterized by an immune imbalance that leads [...] Read more.

This study examines the synergistic interaction between the immunomodulatory functions of lactic acid bacteria postbiotics and the anti-inflammatory properties of Smilax china L. extract through a combined fermentation process. Using atopic dermatitis (AD) as a model, characterized by an immune imbalance that leads to skin inflammation, we developed a fermented product, MB-2006, and compared its effects to those of the heat-killed probiotics Lactobacillus acidophilus (LAC) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LRH). Our experiments focused on elucidating the mechanism of action of MB-2006 in AD-like HaCaT keratinocyte cells, particularly its impact on the NF-κB pathway, a pivotal regulator of inflammation. MB-2006 proved more effective in reducing inflammation markers, such as IL-4 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), and in inhibiting NF-κB activation compared to LAC and LRH. Significantly, MB-2006 also reduced the expression of thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), highlighting a synergistic effect that enhances its therapeutic potential. These results suggest that the combined fermentation of Smilax china L. extract with lactic acid bacteria enhanced both the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, presenting a promising integrative approach to treating conditions like AD. Further studies are needed to validate these results in clinical settings and fully explore the potential of this synergistic fermentation process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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12 pages, 1640 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

The Ethyl Acetate Extract of Caulerpa microphysa Promotes Collagen Homeostasis and Inhibits Inflammation in the Skin

by Kuo-Yun Lu, Li-Ching Cheng, Zheng-Ci Hung, Ze-Ying Chen, Chuang-Wei Wang and Hsin-Han Hou

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(3), 2701-2712; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46030170 - 21 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1656

Abstract

Inflammation and collagen-degrading enzymes’ overexpression promote collagen decomposition, which affects the structural integrity of the extracellular matrix. The polysaccharide and peptide extracts of the green alga Caulerpa microphysa (C. microphysa) have been proven to have anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant effects [...] Read more.

Inflammation and collagen-degrading enzymes’ overexpression promote collagen decomposition, which affects the structural integrity of the extracellular matrix. The polysaccharide and peptide extracts of the green alga Caulerpa microphysa (C. microphysa) have been proven to have anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant effects in vivo and in vitro. However, the biological properties of the non-water-soluble components of C. microphysa are still unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated the higher effective anti-inflammatory functions of C. microphysa ethyl acetate (EA) extract than water extract up to 16–30% in LPS-induced HaCaT cells, including reducing the production of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Furthermore, the excellent collagen homeostasis effects from C. microphysa were proven by suppressing the matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) secretion, enhancing type 1 procollagen and collagen expressions dose-dependently in WS1 cells. Moreover, using UHPLC-QTOF-MS analysis, four terpenoids, siphonaxanthin, caulerpenyne, caulerpal A, and caulerpal B, were identified and may be involved in the superior collagen homeostasis and anti-inflammatory effects of the C. microphysa EA extract. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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14 pages, 3162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Ellagic Acid on Experimental Corrosive Esophageal Burn Injury

by Dilek Aygün Keşim, Fırat Aşır, Hayat Ayaz and Tuğcan Korak

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(2), 1579-1592; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46020102 - 16 Feb 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1411

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effect of Ellagic acid (EA) on wound healing in sodium hydroxide (NaOH)-induced corrosive esophageal burn injury. The interaction networks and functional annotations were conducted using Cytoscape software. A total of 24 Wistar albino rats were divided [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effect of Ellagic acid (EA) on wound healing in sodium hydroxide (NaOH)-induced corrosive esophageal burn injury. The interaction networks and functional annotations were conducted using Cytoscape software. A total of 24 Wistar albino rats were divided into control, corrosive esophageal burn (CEB) and CEB + EA groups. Burn injury was created by 20% NaOH and 30 mg/kg EA was per oral administered to rats. At the end of the 28-day experimental period, Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was measured. Esophageal tissue samples were processed for histological staining. The EA–target interaction network was revealed to be involved in regulating crucial cellular mechanisms for burn wound healing, with epidermal growth factor (EGF) identified as a central mediator. An increase in animal weight in the CEB + EA group was observed in the EA-treated group after CEB injury. Burn injury increased MDA content, but EA treatment decreased its level after CEB injury. Stenosis index, collagen degeneration, inflammation, fibrosis and necrosis levels were increased after CEB injury. EA treatment improved histopathology in the CEB + EA group compared to the CEB group. The expression of EGF was decreased in the CEB group but upregulated in the EA-treated group, suggesting a potential involvement of EA in cellular processes and tissue regeneration. EA, through its antioxidative and tissue regenerative properties, significantly contributes to alleviating the adverse effects of CEB injury, promoting wound healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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14 pages, 2972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Study of Limonoids Isolated from Chisocheton Plants

by Erina Hilmayanti, Xuhao Huang, Supriatno Salam, Nurlelasari, Unang Supratman, Kazuya Kabayama and Koichi Fukase

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(1), 909-922; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46010058 - 20 Jan 2024

Viewed by 1410

Abstract

Chisocheton plants from the family Meliaceae have traditionally been used to treat several diseases; however, scientific evidence is limited. The most abundant chemical constituents of this plant are the limonoids, which are known for their various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects. However, the [...] Read more.

Chisocheton plants from the family Meliaceae have traditionally been used to treat several diseases; however, scientific evidence is limited. The most abundant chemical constituents of this plant are the limonoids, which are known for their various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects. However, the anti-inflammatory effects and underlying mechanisms of action of the constituents of Chisocheton plants have not been fully explored. In this report, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of 17 limonoid compounds from Chisocheton plant primarily by measuring their inhibitory effects on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1, in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells using an ELISA assay. Compounds 3, 5, 9, and 14–17 exhibited significant activity in inhibiting the evaluated pro-inflammatory markers, with IC₅₀ values less than 20 µM and a high selectivity index (SI) range. Compounds 3, 5, 9, and 15 significantly suppressed the expression of phosphorylated p38 MAPK in THP-1 cells stimulated with LPS. These findings support the use of limonoids from Chisocheton plants as promising candidates for anti-inflammatory therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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12 pages, 5474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of Phagocytosis by Silibinin in Mouse Macrophages

by Kyung-Hoon Sun, Min-Young Lee and Young-Jin Jeon

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2023, 45(10), 8126-8137; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb45100513 - 6 Oct 2023

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Abstract

This study investigated the effects of silibinin, derived from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced morphological changes in mouse macrophages. Silibinin was treated at various doses and time points to assess its effects on macrophage activation, including morphological changes and [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of silibinin, derived from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced morphological changes in mouse macrophages. Silibinin was treated at various doses and time points to assess its effects on macrophage activation, including morphological changes and phagocytosis. Silibinin effectively inhibited LPS-induced pseudopodia formation and size increase, while unstimulated cells remained round. Silibinin’s impact on phagocytosis was dose- and time-dependent, showing a decrease. We explored its mechanism of action on kinases using a MAPK array. Among the three MAPK family members tested, silibinin had a limited effect on JNK and p38 but significantly inhibited ERK1/2 and related RSK1/2. Silibinin also inhibited MKK6, AKT3, MSK2, p70S6K, and GSK-3β. These findings highlight silibinin’s potent inhibitory effects on phagocytosis and morphological changes in macrophages. We suggest its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent due to its ability to target key inflammatory pathways involving ERK1/2 and related kinases. Overall, this study demonstrates the promising therapeutic properties of silibinin in modulating macrophage function and inflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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16 pages, 26823 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Eupatilin Ameliorates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Inhibiting Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis in Mice

by Kiryeong Kim, Hyo-Lim Hong, Gyun Moo Kim, Jaechan Leem and Hyun Hee Kwon

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2023, 45(9), 7027-7042; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb45090444 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1574

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of sepsis. Eupatilin (EUP) is a natural flavone with multiple biological activities and has beneficial effects against various inflammatory disorders. However, whether EUP has a favorable effect on septic AKI remains unknown. Here, we examined [...] Read more.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of sepsis. Eupatilin (EUP) is a natural flavone with multiple biological activities and has beneficial effects against various inflammatory disorders. However, whether EUP has a favorable effect on septic AKI remains unknown. Here, we examined the effect of EUP on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-evoked AKI in mice. LPS-evoked renal dysfunction was attenuated by EUP, as reflected by reductions in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. LPS injection also induced structural damage such as tubular cell detachment, tubular dilatation, brush border loss of proximal tubules, and upregulation of tubular injury markers. However, EUP significantly ameliorated this structural damage. EUP decreased serum and renal cytokine levels, prevented macrophage infiltration, and inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase and NF-κB signaling cascades. Lipid peroxidation and DNA oxidation were increased after LPS treatment. However, EUP mitigated LPS-evoked oxidative stress through downregulation of NPDPH oxidase 4 and upregulation of antioxidant enzymes. EUP also inhibited p53-mediated apoptosis in LPS-treated mice. Therefore, these results suggest that EUP ameliorates LPS-evoked AKI through inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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19 pages, 708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunomodulatory and Antioxidant Properties of Ipomoea batatas Flour and Extracts Obtained by Green Extraction

by Imane Boukhers, Sylvie Morel, Joelle Kongolo, Romain Domingo, Adrien Servent, Lea Ollier, Hippolyte Kodja, Thomas Petit and Patrick Poucheret

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2023, 45(9), 6967-6985; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb45090440 - 22 Aug 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1830

Abstract

Sweet potato (SP), Ipomoea batatas Lam, belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It produces edible storage roots. Currently, orange varieties contribute to improving food systems and managing vitamin A deficiency. Processing of this food crop into flour allows better conservation. However, nutrition health data [...] Read more.

Sweet potato (SP), Ipomoea batatas Lam, belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It produces edible storage roots. Currently, orange varieties contribute to improving food systems and managing vitamin A deficiency. Processing of this food crop into flour allows better conservation. However, nutrition health data regarding SP flour obtained by green extraction remains scarce. In this study, we therefore explored its phytochemistry and its associated bioactivity potential for human health. We analyzed the nutritional composition of orange flesh sweet potato (OFSP) flour and assessed the antioxidant (free radical scavenging) and immunomodulatory (on inflammatory murine macrophages) properties of the extract. More specifically, we measured the impact of OFSP flour extract on mediators such as Nitric Oxide (NO) and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha), Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1), and Prostaglandin-E2 (PGE-2). Our results indicated significant fiber, mineral, beta-carotene, and polyphenols content in the extracts, and antioxidant and immunomodulatory bioactivities were also demonstrated with a concentration-dependent inhibition of cytokine production. Taken together, our results suggest that Ipomoea batatas flour could, in addition to being a good source of energy and beta-carotene provitamin A, constitute a food of interest for the prophylaxis of metabolic diseases associated with an underlying low-grade inflammatory state. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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10 pages, 2986 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

The Effects of Sargassum horneri Extract and Fucoidan on Tear Hyposecretion and Ocular Surface Injury in Rats with Dry Eye Diseases

by Su-Bin Park, Woo Kwon Jung, Hwa Young Yu and Junghyun Kim

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2023, 45(8), 6583-6592; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb45080415 - 8 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1661

Abstract

Hyperosmotic stress caused by tear hyposection is a leading cause of dry eye disease. We investigated the prevention of dry eye disease in corneal epithelial cells and in rats that were induced to develop dry eye disease via unilateral excision of their exorbital [...] Read more.

Hyperosmotic stress caused by tear hyposection is a leading cause of dry eye disease. We investigated the prevention of dry eye disease in corneal epithelial cells and in rats that were induced to develop dry eye disease via unilateral excision of their exorbital lacrimal gland using Sargassum horneri extract (AB_SH) and its bioactive component fucoidan. Oral administration of AB_SH (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) and fucoidan (100 mg/kg) was conducted for 7 days. In order to measure tear secretion, phenol red thread tear tests were performed along with corneal irregularity measurements. The apoptotic injury in the cornea and the lacrimal gland was evaluated using TUNEL staining. AB_SH and fucoidan were shown to suppress apoptosis and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in human corneal epithelial cells under hyperosmotic conditions. Oral administration of AB_SH and fucoidan attenuated tear hyposecretion and corneal irregularity in the lacrimal gland-excised rats. In addition, AB_SH and fucoidan also reduced apoptosis in the cornea and lacrimal gland. This study suggests that S. horneri extract and fucoidan can effectively ameliorate dry eye disease by suppressing the apoptosis of ocular tissues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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25 pages, 131092 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Curcumin on Radiation/Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis: Combined Meta-Analysis, Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

by Zhi-Xing Chen, Ya-Shi Qin, Bang-Hui Shi, Bi-Yun Gao, Ren-Chuan Tao and Xiang-Zhi Yong

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 10545-10569; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090625 - 20 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1383

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the effects of curcumin on radiation/chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (R/CIOM) and preliminarily explore its mechanism. Randomized controlled trials were identified from the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Google Scholar databases. RevMan 5.4 was used for [...] Read more.

The study aims to investigate the effects of curcumin on radiation/chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (R/CIOM) and preliminarily explore its mechanism. Randomized controlled trials were identified from the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Google Scholar databases. RevMan 5.4 was used for statistical analysis to calculate the combined risk ratios (RRs). The mechanism was analyzed through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and a molecular dynamics simulation. The targets of curcumin were collected in HERB, PharmMapper, Targetnet, Swiss Target Prediction, and SuperPred. OMIM, GeneCards, and Disgenet were used to collect relevant targets for R/CIOM. Cytoscape software 3.8.0 was used to construct the component-target-pathway network. Protein–Protein Interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using the STRING database. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed by Metascape. AutoDock Vina 4.2 software was used for molecular docking. The molecular dynamics simulation was performed by Gromacs v2022.03. It is found that 12 studies involving 565 patients were included. Meta-analyses showed that curcumin reduced the incidence of severe R/CIOM (RR 0.42 [0.24, 0.75]) and the mean severity of R/CIOM (MD -0.93 [−1.34, −0.52]). Eleven core target genes were identified in the treatment of R/CIOM with curcumin. The results of molecular docking and the molecular dynamics simulation showed that curcumin had strong binding energy and stability with target proteins including MAPK3, SRC, and TNF. Overall, these findings suggest curcumin can effectively improve severe R/CIOM, perhaps by affecting MAPK3, SRC, and TNF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)

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