RESUMEN

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a chronic toxic liver injury caused by long-term heavy drinking. Due to the increasing incidence, ALD is becoming one of important medical tasks. Many studies have shown that the main mechanism of liver damage caused by large amounts of alcohol may be related to antioxidant stress. As an important antioxidant, cysteine (Cys) is involved in maintaining the normal redox balance and detoxifying metabolic function of the liver, which may be closely related to the pathogenesis of ALD. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a simple non-invasive method for rapid monitoring of Cys in liver. Thus, a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe DCI-Ac-Cys which undergoes Cys triggered cascade reaction to form coumarin fluorophore is developed. Using the DCI-Ac-Cys, decreased Cys was observed in the liver of ALD mice. Importantly, different levels of Cys were monitored in the livers of ALD mice taking silybin and curcumin with the antioxidant effects, indicating the excellent therapeutic effect on ALD. This study provides the important references for the accurate diagnosis of ALD and the pharmacodynamic evaluation of silybin and curcumin in the treatment of ALD, and support new ideas for the pathogenesis of ALD.

Asunto(s)

Cumarinas , Cisteína , Colorantes Fluorescentes , Hepatopatías Alcohólicas , Animales , Cisteína/análisis , Cisteína/metabolismo , Cumarinas/química , Colorantes Fluorescentes/química , Hepatopatías Alcohólicas/metabolismo , Hepatopatías Alcohólicas/patología , Masculino , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Espectroscopía Infrarroja Corta/métodos , Curcumina/farmacología , Espectrometría de Fluorescencia , Silibina/farmacología , Silibina/química

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality, with hepatic steatosis being the hallmark symptom. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Smil, Dan-Shen) and Ligusticum striatum DC (Lstr, Chuan-Xiong) are commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases and have the potential to regulate lipid metabolism. However, whether Smil/Lstr combo can be used to treat NAFLD and the mechanisms underlying its lipid-regulating properties remain unclear. PURPOSE: To assess the feasibility and reliability of a short-term high-fat diet (HFD) induced zebrafish model for evaluating hepatic steatosis phenotype and to investigate the liver lipid-lowering effects of Smil/Lstr, as well as its active components. METHODS: The phenotypic alterations of liver and multiple other organ systems were examined in the HFD zebrafish model using fluorescence imaging and histochemistry. The liver-specific lipid-lowering effects of Smil/Lstr combo were evaluated endogenously. The active molecules and functional mechanisms were further explored in zebrafish, human hepatocytes, and hamster models. RESULTS: In 5-day HFD zebrafish, significant lipid accumulation was detected in the blood vessels and the liver, as evidenced by increased staining with Oil Red O and fluorescent lipid probes. Hepatic hypertrophy was observed in the model, along with macrovesicular steatosis. Smil/Lstr combo administration effectively restored the lipid profile and alleviated hepatic hypertrophy in the HFD zebrafish. In oleic-acid stimulated hepatocytes, Smil/Lstr combo markedly reduced lipid accumulation and cell damage. Subsequently, based on zebrafish phenotypic screening, the natural phthalide senkyunolide I (SEI) was identified as a major molecule mediating the lipid-lowering activities of Smil/Lstr combo in the liver. Moreover, SEI upregulated the expression of the lipid metabolism regulator PPARα and downregulated fatty acid translocase CD36, while a PPARα antagonist sufficiently blocked the regulatory effect of SEI on hepatic steatosis. Finally, the roles of SEI on hepatic lipid accumulation and PPARα signaling were further verified in the hamster model. CONCLUSIONS: We proposed a zebrafish-based screening strategy for modulators of hepatic steatosis and discovered the regulatory roles of Smil/Lstr combo and its component SEI on liver lipid accumulation and PPARα signaling, suggesting their potential value as novel candidates for NAFLD treatment.

Asunto(s)

Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , PPAR alfa , Transducción de Señal , Pez Cebra , Animales , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , PPAR alfa/metabolismo , Humanos , Masculino , Enfermedad del Hígado Graso no Alcohólico/tratamiento farmacológico , Dieta Alta en Grasa , Metabolismo de los Lípidos/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/patología , Cricetinae , Hepatocitos/efectos de los fármacos , Hepatocitos/metabolismo , Mesocricetus , Células Hep G2 , Benzofuranos/farmacología , Hígado Graso/tratamiento farmacológico

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Hypercholesterolemia (HLC) was a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) characterized by elevated cholesterol levels, particularly LDL. While traditional Chinese medicine preparations Compound Danshen Pills(CDP) has been clinically used for hypercholesterolemia and coronary heart disease, its specific therapeutic effect on HLC remains understudied, necessitating further investigation into its mechanisms. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to explore the potential of CDP in treating HLC and elucidate its underlying mechanisms and active components. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hypercholesterolemic lipemia rat model induced by a high-fat diet was employed. Network pharmacology combined with UHPLC-Q exactive orbitrap HRMS technique was used to predict the active components, targets and mechanisms of CDP for HLC. Histological analysis and serum biochemical assays were used to assess the therapeutic effect of CDP and its main active ingredient Sa B on hypercholesterolemic lipemia rat model. Immunofluorescence assays and western blotting were used to verify the mechanism of CDP and Sa B in the treatment of HLC. Metabolomics approach was used to demonstrate that CDP and Sa B affected the metabolic profile of HLC. RESULTS: Our findings demonstrated that both CDP and its main active ingredient Sa B significantly ameliorated hypercholesterolemic lipemic lesions, reducing levels of TC, LDL, AST, ALT, and ALP. Histological analysis revealed a decrease in lipid droplet accumulation and collagen fiber deposition in the liver, as well as reduced collagen fiber deposition in the aorta. Network pharmacology predicted potential targets such as PPARα and CYP27A1. Immunofluorescence assays and western blotting confirmed that CDP and Sa B upregulated the expression of Adipor1, PPARα and CYP27A1. Metabolomics analyses further indicated improvements in ABC transporters metabolic pathways, with differential metabolites such as riboflavin, taurine, and choline showed regression in levels after CDP treatment and riboflavin, L-Threonine, Thiamine, L-Leucine, and Adenosine showed improved expression after Sa B treatment. CONCLUSION: CDP and Sa B have been shown to alleviate high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemia by activating the PPAR pathway and improving hepatic lipid metabolism. Our study demonstrated, for the first time, the complex mechanism of CDP, Sa B in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia at the protein and metabolic levels and provided a new reference that could elucidate the pharmacological effects of traditional Chinese medicine on hypercholesterolemia from multiple perspectives.

Asunto(s)

Dieta Alta en Grasa , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos , Hipercolesterolemia , Metabolómica , Farmacología en Red , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Salvia miltiorrhiza , Animales , Hipercolesterolemia/tratamiento farmacológico , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/farmacología , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/uso terapéutico , Masculino , Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Presión , Salvia miltiorrhiza/química , Ratas , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/patología , Canfanos , Panax notoginseng

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Si-Ni-San (SNS), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula derived from Treatise on Febrile Diseases, is considered effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases based upon thousands of years of clinical practice. However, the bioactive ingredients and underlying mechanisms are still unclear and need further investigation. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the effect, explore the bioactive ingredients and the underlying mechanisms of SNS in ameliorating ulcerative colitis (UC) and associated liver injury in dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-induced mouse colitis models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The effect of SNS (1.5, 3, 6 g/kg) on 3% DSS-induced acute murine colitis was evaluated by disease activity index (DAI), colon length, inflammatory cytokines, hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, tight junction proteins expression, ALT, AST, and oxidative stress indicators. HPLC-ESI-IT/TOF MS was used to analyze the chemical components of SNS and the main xenobiotics in the colon of UC mice after oral administration of SNS. Network pharmacological study was then conducted based on the main xenobiotics. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry techniques were used to demonstrate the inhibitory effect of SNS on Th17 cells differentiation and the amelioration of Th17/Treg cell imbalance. LC-MS/MS, Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blotting techniques were performed to investigate the oxysterol-Liver X receptor (LXRs) signaling activity in colon. Targeted bile acids metabolomics was conducted to reveal the change of the two major pathways of bile acid synthesis in the liver, and the expression of key metabolic enzymes of bile acids synthesis was characterized by RT-qPCR and western blotting techniques. RESULTS: SNS (1.5, 3, 6 g/kg) decreased the DAI scores, protected intestinal mucosa barrier, suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, improved hepatic and splenic enlargement and alleviated liver injury in a dose-dependent manner. A total of 22 components were identified in the colon of SNS (6 g/kg) treated colitis mice, and the top 10 components ranked by relative content were regarded as the potential effective chemical components of SNS, and used to conduct network pharmacology research. The efficacy of SNS was mediated by a reduction of Th17 cell differentiation, restoration of Th17/Treg cell homeostasis in the colon and spleen, and the experimental results were consistent with our hypothesis and the biological mechanism predicted by network pharmacology. Mechanistically, SNS regulated the concentration of 25-OHC and 27-OHC by up-regulated CH25H, CYP27A1 protein expression in colon, thus affected the expression and activity of LXR, ultimately impacted Th17 differentiation and Th17/Treg balance. It was also found that SNS repressed the increase of hepatic cholesterol and reversed the shift of BA synthesis to the acidic pathway in UC mice, which decreased the proportion of non-12-OH BAs in total bile acids (TBAs) and further ameliorated colitis and concomitant liver injury. CONCLUSIONS: This study set the stage for considering SNS as a multi-organ benefited anti-colitis prescription based on the significant effect of ameliorating intestinal and liver damage, and revealed that derivatives of cholesterol, namely oxysterols and bile acids, were closely involved in the mechanism of SNS anti-colitis effect.

Asunto(s)

Colesterol , Colitis Ulcerosa , Sulfato de Dextran , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos , Animales , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/farmacología , Colitis Ulcerosa/tratamiento farmacológico , Colitis Ulcerosa/inducido químicamente , Colitis Ulcerosa/patología , Colitis Ulcerosa/metabolismo , Ratones , Masculino , Colesterol/sangre , Células Th17/efectos de los fármacos , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología , Hígado/metabolismo , Colon/efectos de los fármacos , Colon/patología , Colon/metabolismo , Farmacología en Red , Citocinas/metabolismo , Linfocitos T Reguladores/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Triptolide is a major bioactive and toxic ingredient isolated from the traditional Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii (T. wilfordii) Hook F. It exhibits potent antitumor, immunosuppressive, and anti-inflammatory biological activities; however, its clinical application is hindered by severe systemic toxicity. Two preparations of T. wilfordii, including T. wilfordii glycoside tablets and T. wilfordii tablets, containing triptolide, are commonly used in clinical practice. However, their adverse side effects, particularly hepatotoxicity, limit their safe use. Therefore, it is crucial to discover potent and specific detoxification medicines for triptolide. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the detoxification effects and potential mechanism of action of spironolactone on triptolide-induced hepatotoxicity to provide a potential detoxifying strategy for triptolide, thereby promoting the safe applications of T. wilfordii preparations in clinical settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cell viability was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and crystal violet staining. Nuclear fragmentation was visualized using 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and protein expression was analyzed by Western blotting. The inhibitory effect of spironolactone on triptolide-induced hepatotoxicity was evaluated by examining the effects of spironolactone on serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, as well as liver pathology in a mouse model of triptolide-induced acute hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, a survival assay was performed to investigate the effects of spironolactone on the survival rate of mice exposed to a lethal dose of triptolide. The effect of spironolactone on triptolide-induced global transcriptional repression was assessed through 5-ethynyl uridine staining. RESULTS: Triptolide treatment decreased the cell viability, increased the nuclear fragmentation and the cleaved caspase-3 levels in both hepatoma cells and hepatocytes. It also increased the alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, induced the hepatocyte swelling and necrosis, and led to seven deaths out of 11 mice. The above effects could be mitigated by pretreatment with spironolactone. Additionally, molecular mechanism exploration unveiled that spironolactone inhibited triptolide-induced DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit RPB1 degradation, consequently increased the fluorescence intensity of 5-ethynyl uridine staining for nascent RNA. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that spironolactone exhibits a potent detoxification role against triptolide hepatotoxicity, through inhibition of RPB1 degradation induced by triptolide and, in turn, retardation of global transcriptional inhibition in affected cells. These findings suggest a potential detoxification strategy for triptolide that may contribute to the safe use of T. wilfordii preparations.

Asunto(s)

Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas , Diterpenos , Compuestos Epoxi , Fenantrenos , Espironolactona , Compuestos Epoxi/toxicidad , Fenantrenos/toxicidad , Fenantrenos/farmacología , Diterpenos/farmacología , Diterpenos/toxicidad , Animales , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/tratamiento farmacológico , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/patología , Ratones , Espironolactona/farmacología , Masculino , Humanos , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología , Hígado/metabolismo , Células Hep G2

RESUMEN

Investigations indicated that sn-2 palmitate have positive effects on brain development, although its mechanism remains largely unexamined. This research delved into how a diet abundant in sn-2 palmitate influenced the cognitive behavior of mice and elucidated the associated mechanisms using metabolomics and lipidomics. The study demonstrated that dietary sn-2 palmitate led to improved working memory and cognition in mice, as well as an increase in brain BDNF concentration when compared to those fed blend vegetable oil (BVO). This was because sn-2 palmitate feeding promoted the synthesis of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCPUFAs) for the lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) in the liver. This led to more efficient delivery of VLCPUFAs to the brain, as indicated by elevated concentration of LPC/LPE-VLCPUFAs in the liver and heightened expression of the major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2a (MFSD2A). In essence, this paper offered a potential mechanism by which sn-2 palmitate enhanced mouse neurodevelopment.

Asunto(s)

Encéfalo , Cognición , Hígado , Lisofosfatidilcolinas , Palmitatos , Animales , Lisofosfatidilcolinas/metabolismo , Ratones , Hígado/metabolismo , Encéfalo/metabolismo , Encéfalo/crecimiento & desarrollo , Encéfalo/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino , Palmitatos/metabolismo , Cognición/efectos de los fármacos , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Ácidos Grasos/metabolismo , Ácidos Grasos/química , Humanos

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ilex cornuta is a valuable species of the Holly genus (Aquifoliaceae), and mainly distributed in eastern China. It is not only made into tea, namely Kudingcha, but also used as traditional medicine to relieve cough, headache, gout, and nourish liver and kidney. AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study was to explore the exact efficacy of different extracts from Ilex cornuta in the treatment of hyperuricemia in vitro and in vivo, and to explore its pharmacological mechanism, so as to bring new ideas for the development of new drugs for reducing uric acid (UA) and anti-gout. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five crude extracts from Ilex cornuta leaves were extracted by different methods. Then, the xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity and antioxidant capacity of 5 extracts in vitro were compared to screen the extract with the most UA regulating potential. In vivo experiment, hyperuricemia model of mice was established by intragastric administration of potassium oxonate and feeding high yeast diet. Biochemical indexes such as serum UA level, xanthine oxidase activity, liver and kidney index of mice in each group were detected. The pathological sections of kidney and liver tissues were also observed and compared. The mechanism of Ilex cornuta leaves (western blotting, and RT-qPCR) in the treatment of hyperuricemia was further explored by targeting UA transporters ABCG2, GLUT9, and URAT1. RESULTS: The in vitro results of inhibitory activity of xanthine oxidase showed that the crude saponin extract was the best, followed by crude flavonoids extract. Then, the in vivo results reflected that both crude saponins and crude flavonoids extracts could significantly reduce the serum UA level, inhibit the activity of xanthine oxidase in serum and liver, and maintain serum urea nitrogen and creatinine at normal level. Meanwhile, there was no liver and kidney injury in mice. Through the comparison of the mechanism results, it was found that both extracts could up-regulate the expression of ABCG2 protein and mRNA related to UA excretion, and down-regulate the expression of GLUT9 and URAT1 protein and mRNA. CONCLUSION: The crude flavonoids and saponins of Ilex cornuta leaves not only inhibited XOD activity in vitro, but also significantly controlled XOD activity and reduced UA level in hyperuricemia mice in vivo. One of the potential mechanisms was to regulate UA level in vivo by regulating ABCG2, GLUT9, and URAT1 transporters directly related to UA transport, thus achieving the effect of intervening hyperuricemia. This study provided a preliminary experimental basis for the development of new drugs of Ilex cornuta leaves for treating hyperuricemia.

Asunto(s)

Transportador de Casetes de Unión a ATP, Subfamilia G, Miembro 2 , Hiperuricemia , Ilex , Transportadores de Anión Orgánico , Extractos Vegetales , Hojas de la Planta , Ácido Úrico , Xantina Oxidasa , Animales , Hiperuricemia/tratamiento farmacológico , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/química , Hojas de la Planta/química , Ácido Úrico/sangre , Xantina Oxidasa/metabolismo , Xantina Oxidasa/antagonistas & inhibidores , Transportadores de Anión Orgánico/metabolismo , Masculino , Transportador de Casetes de Unión a ATP, Subfamilia G, Miembro 2/metabolismo , Ilex/química , Ratones , Riñón/efectos de los fármacos , Riñón/metabolismo , Riñón/patología , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Proteínas Facilitadoras del Transporte de la Glucosa/metabolismo , Antioxidantes/farmacología , Antioxidantes/aislamiento & purificación , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Proteína 1 de Transporte de Anión Orgánico

RESUMEN

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a chronic, progressive liver disease that encompasses a spectrum of steatosis, steatohepatitis (or MASH), and fibrosis. Evidence suggests that dietary restriction (DR) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) can lead to remission of hepatic steatosis and inflammation through weight loss, but it is unclear whether these procedures induce distinct metabolic or immunological changes in MASLD livers. This study aims to elucidate the intricate hepatic changes following DR, SG or sham surgery in rats fed a high-fat diet as a model of obesity-related MASLD, in comparison to a clinical cohort of patients undergoing SG. Single-cell and single-nuclei transcriptome analysis, spatial metabolomics, and immunohistochemistry revealed the liver landscape, while circulating biomarkers were measured in serum samples. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted image analysis characterized the spatial distribution of hepatocytes, myeloid cells and lymphocytes. In patients and experimental MASLD rats, SG improved body mass index, circulating liver injury biomarkers and triglyceride levels. Both DR and SG attenuated liver steatosis and fibrosis in rats. Metabolism-related genes (Ppara, Cyp2e1 and Cyp7a1) were upregulated in hepatocytes upon DR and SG, while SG broadly upregulated lipid metabolism on cholangiocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. Furthermore, SG promoted restorative myeloid cell accumulation in the liver not only ameliorating inflammation but activating liver repair processes. Regions with potent myeloid infiltration were marked with enhanced metabolic capacities upon SG. Additionally, a disruption of periportal hepatocyte functions was observed upon DR. In conclusion, this study indicates a dynamic cellular crosstalk in steatotic livers of patients undergoing SG. Notably, PPARα- and gut-liver axis-related processes, and metabolically active myeloid cell infiltration indicate intervention-related mechanisms supporting the indication of SG for the treatment of MASLD.

Asunto(s)

Hígado Graso , Gastrectomía , Animales , Ratas , Masculino , Hígado Graso/metabolismo , Humanos , Hígado/metabolismo , Dieta Alta en Grasa/efectos adversos , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Metabolómica , Restricción Calórica , Multiómica

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: Liver derangement underlies the development of metabolic syndrome in perimenopause. Previously, we have observed that durva swaras (DS) improved metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and abnormal liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase) along with other complications of menopause in ovariectomized rats. We aimed to decipher the hepatoprotective mechanisms of DS in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury model, which is analogous to the pathophysiology of MAFLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male Swiss albino mice were distributed into three groups at random. Group I (Control) was administered with vehicle (distilled water) for 7 days. Group II (APAP) received vehicle for the first 6 days and APAP (350 mg/kg - single dose) on the 7th day. Group III (APAP + D) received test compound DS (quality complied) at a dose of 133 mg/kg for 6 days and APAP (350 mg/kg - single dose) on the 7th day. Subsequently, blood and liver tissues were subjected to biochemical, ultrastructural, and gene expression analysis. RESULTS: DS pretreatment protected the liver from APAP-induced disruption of sinusoids and necrosis. DS prevented the elevation of liver enzymes - AST and ALT induced by APAP. Importantly, DS inhibited the APAP-elicited increase in messenger ribonucleic acid levels of hepatic nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-κB) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely interleukin-1 beta, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Moreover, DS activated gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and liver-X-receptor-alpha (LXR-α) to combat the liver damage. CONCLUSION: DS hinders APAP-induced liver damage by activating LXR-α and inhibiting the NF-κB-associated pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression. These observations confirm the protective role of DS in metabolic dysfunction-associated liver conditions.

Asunto(s)

Acetaminofén , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas , Animales , Masculino , Ratones , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/prevención & control , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas/tratamiento farmacológico , Acetaminofén/toxicidad , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/administración & dosificación , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/patología , Biomarcadores/sangre , Alanina Transaminasa/sangre , FN-kappa B/metabolismo , Citocinas/metabolismo , Aspartato Aminotransferasas/sangre , Inflamación/tratamiento farmacológico

RESUMEN

This study aimed to examine whether dietary supplementation of broiler chickens with turmeric essential could mitigate the effects of cyclic heat stress conditions. Intestinal and immunological parameters and gene expression were evaluated during the grower phase. A total of 320 21-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers were distributed according to a completely randomized design with a 4 (diet) × 2 (environment) factorial arrangement and eight replications of five birds each. Dietary treatments consisted of a basal diet without essential oil (EO, negative control) and three diets containing low (100 mg kg-1), intermediate (200 mg kg-1), or high (300 mg kg-1) levels of turmeric EO. In the heat stress group, dietary supplementation with turmeric EO at 100 and 200 mg kg-1 improved body weight, feed conversion, breast yield, and relative liver weight. These supplementation levels reduced villus width, increased villus/crypt ratio, reduced the H/L ratio, and improved hepatic (HSP70 and SREBP1) and intestinal (OCLN) gene expression in birds under heat stress. These findings support the hypothesis that turmeric EO can be used to improve or restore intestinal integrity, modulate inflammation parameters, and, consequently, enhance the performance of broilers challenged by cyclic heat stress.

Asunto(s)

Pollos , Curcuma , Dieta , Suplementos Dietéticos , Expresión Génica , Respuesta al Choque Térmico , Intestinos , Aceites Volátiles , Animales , Pollos/inmunología , Pollos/crecimiento & desarrollo , Aceites Volátiles/farmacología , Aceites Volátiles/administración & dosificación , Masculino , Intestinos/efectos de los fármacos , Respuesta al Choque Térmico/efectos de los fármacos , Dieta/veterinaria , Expresión Génica/efectos de los fármacos , Alimentación Animal , Calor , Hígado/metabolismo , Trastornos de Estrés por Calor/veterinaria , Trastornos de Estrés por Calor/prevención & control , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico/metabolismo , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico/genética

RESUMEN

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of echinacoside (Ech) on carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced chronic liver injury in rats and its potential mechanisms. Thirty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: the Control group, the CCL4 group, the CCL4 + Ech 25 mg/kg group, the CCL4 + Ech 50 mg/kg group, and the CCL4 + Ech 100 mg/kg group. The rats were injected intraperitoneally with CCL4 solution twice a week to induce chronic liver injury, and Ech intervention lasted for 4 weeks. After the intervention, the liver and blood samples from rats were collected for subsequent analysis. Ech effectively reduced the levels of serum liver injury markers (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin), attenuated the hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis, improved the severity of liver fibrosis, and inhibited the local inflammatory response of the liver in a dose-dependent manner. Ech effectively mitigated CCL4-induced chronic liver injury in rats by downregulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.

Asunto(s)

Tetracloruro de Carbono , Glicósidos , Inflamasomas , FN-kappa B , Proteína con Dominio Pirina 3 de la Familia NLR , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Animales , Proteína con Dominio Pirina 3 de la Familia NLR/metabolismo , FN-kappa B/metabolismo , Glicósidos/farmacología , Glicósidos/química , Glicósidos/uso terapéutico , Ratas , Inflamasomas/metabolismo , Masculino , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología

RESUMEN

The function of hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 12 (HSD17B12) in lipid metabolism is poorly understood. To study this further, we created mice with hepatocyte-specific knockout of HSD17B12 (LiB12cKO). From 2 months on, these mice showed significant fat accumulation in their liver. As they aged, they also had a reduced whole-body fat percentage. Interestingly, the liver fat accumulation did not result in the typical formation of large lipid droplets (LD); instead, small droplets were more prevalent. Thus, LiB12KO liver did not show increased macrovesicular steatosis with the increasing fat content, while microvesicular steatosis was the predominant feature in the liver. This indicates a failure in the LD expansion. This was associated with liver damage, presumably due to lipotoxicity. Notably, the lipidomics data did not support an essential role of HSD17B12 in fatty acid (FA) elongation. However, we did observe a decrease in the quantity of specific lipid species that contain FAs with carbon chain lengths of 18 and 20 atoms, including oleic acid. Of these, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine have been shown to play a key role in LD formation, and a limited amount of these lipids could be part of the mechanism leading to the dysfunction in LD expansion. The increase in the Cidec expression further supported the deficiency in LD expansion in the LiB12cKO liver. This protein is crucial for the fusion and growth of LDs, along with the downregulation of several members of the major urinary protein family of proteins, which have recently been shown to be altered during endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Asunto(s)

Hígado Graso , Hepatocitos , Gotas Lipídicas , Ratones Noqueados , Animales , Ratones , Gotas Lipídicas/metabolismo , Hepatocitos/metabolismo , Hígado Graso/metabolismo , Hígado Graso/patología , Hígado Graso/genética , 17-Hidroxiesteroide Deshidrogenasas/metabolismo , 17-Hidroxiesteroide Deshidrogenasas/genética , Metabolismo de los Lípidos , Peso Corporal , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/patología , Masculino , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Ácidos Grasos/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have unique features which could be beneficial to various aspects of clinics and industry. Long-term exposure to AuNPs damages the physiologic functions and tissue structure of organs. Gingerol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study explored the effect of 6-gingerol on alleviation of AuNPs exposure effects in rats' liver. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups of negative control (received no AuNPs or treatment), positive control (received AuNPs but not treatment), and two study arms (both received AuNPs and one group 50 and the other 100 mg/Kg body weight 6-gingerol). All injections were performed intraperitoneally. After 30 days, serum levels of ALP, AST, ALT were assessed through ELISA method by an autoanalyzer while GGT, SOD, GPx, CAT, IL-6, IL-1ß, TNF-α, CRP, 8-OHdG, MDA, and Bax/Bcl2 were measured using an ELISA reader. Paraffin-embedded tissue sections of the livers from all groups were also prepared and H&E staining was performed on them for investigation of tissue changes. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26 and p = 0.05 was considered as the level of significancy. AuNPs exposure significantly increased the levels of ALP, AST, ALT, GGT, CRP, IL-6, IL-1ß, TNF-α, Bax/Bcl2, 8-OHdG, MDA (p < 0.001) in positive control groups compared to negative controls, while treatment with 6-gingerol significantly decreased the mentioned enzyme levels (p < 0.001). The level of antioxidant enzymes of SOD, GPx, and CAT, on the other hand, was found to be highest and lowest in negative and positive controls, respectively (p < 0.001). Treatment with 6-gingerol significantly decreased the mentioned enzyme levels (p < 0.001). Histology results showed no signs of degeneration, necrosis, or immune cell infiltration in negative controls, while positive controls showed dilated central veins and hyperemia along with infiltration of mononuclear immune cells to the portal area, tissue degeneration, and necrosis. The study arms showed improved signs as they showed normal trabecular structures with no clear portal space. Treatment with 6-gingerol seems to significantly and efficiently reduce the hepatic side effects of AuNPs exposure in Wistar rats.

Asunto(s)

Biomarcadores , Catecoles , Alcoholes Grasos , Oro , Hígado , Nanopartículas del Metal , Estrés Oxidativo , Ratas Wistar , Animales , Alcoholes Grasos/farmacología , Catecoles/farmacología , Masculino , Estrés Oxidativo/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/patología , Hígado/metabolismo , Nanopartículas del Metal/toxicidad , Ratas , Oro/farmacología , Biomarcadores/metabolismo , Biomarcadores/sangre , Inflamación/tratamiento farmacológico , Inflamación/metabolismo , Inflamación/patología , Inflamación/inducido químicamente , Antioxidantes/farmacología , Antioxidantes/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Rationale: Dysregulated T-cell immune response-mediated inflammation plays critical roles in the pathology of diverse liver diseases, but the underlying mechanism of liver immune homeostasis control and the specific therapies for limiting T-cell overactivation remain unclear. Methods: The metabolic changes in concanavalin A (ConA) mice and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) patients and their associations with liver injury were analyzed. The expression of purine catabolism nucleases (e.g., CD39 and CD73) on liver cells and immune cells was assessed. The effects of MCregs and their extracellular vesicles (EVs) on CD4+ T-cell overactivation and the underlying mechanism were also explored. Results: Our findings revealed significant alterations in purine metabolism in ConA mice and AIH patients, which correlated with liver injury severity and therapeutic response. CD39 and CD73 were markedly upregulated on CD11b+Gr-1+ MCs under liver injury conditions. The naturally expanded CD39+CD73+Gr-1highCD11b+ MCreg subset during early liver injury effectively suppressed CD4+ T-cell hyperactivation and liver injury both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MCregs released CD73high EVs, which converted extracellular AMP to immunosuppressive metabolites (e.g., adenosine and inosine), activating the cAMP pathway and inhibiting glycolysis and cytokine secretion in activated CD4+ T cells. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the mechanism controlling immune homeostasis during the early liver injury phase and highlights that MCreg or MCreg-EV therapy may be a specific strategy for preventing diverse liver diseases induced by T-cell overactivation.

Asunto(s)

Vesículas Extracelulares , Hepatitis Autoinmune , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Purinas , Animales , Vesículas Extracelulares/metabolismo , Vesículas Extracelulares/inmunología , Ratones , Purinas/metabolismo , Hepatitis Autoinmune/inmunología , Hepatitis Autoinmune/metabolismo , Hepatitis Autoinmune/patología , Humanos , Apirasa/metabolismo , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/inmunología , Hígado/patología , Células Mieloides/metabolismo , Células Mieloides/inmunología , Linfocitos T CD4-Positivos/inmunología , Linfocitos T CD4-Positivos/metabolismo , Masculino , 5'-Nucleotidasa/metabolismo , Activación de Linfocitos/inmunología , Concanavalina A , Femenino , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Inflamación/metabolismo , Inflamación/inmunología , Antígenos CD

RESUMEN

Alcohol consumption in pregnancy can affect genome regulation in the developing offspring but results have been contradictory. We employed a physiologically relevant murine model of short-term moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) resembling common patterns of alcohol consumption in pregnancy in humans. Early moderate PAE was sufficient to affect site-specific DNA methylation in newborn pups without altering behavioural outcomes in adult littermates. Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing of neonatal brain and liver revealed stochastic influence on DNA methylation that was mostly tissue-specific, with some perturbations likely originating as early as gastrulation. DNA methylation differences were enriched in non-coding genomic regions with regulatory potential indicative of broad effects of alcohol on genome regulation. Replication studies in human cohorts with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder suggested some effects were metastable at genes linked to disease-relevant traits including facial morphology, intelligence, educational attainment, autism, and schizophrenia. In our murine model, a maternal diet high in folate and choline protected against some of the damaging effects of early moderate PAE on DNA methylation. Our studies demonstrate that early moderate exposure is sufficient to affect fetal genome regulation even in the absence of overt phenotypic changes and highlight a role for preventative maternal dietary interventions.

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Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol during pregnancy can cause foetal alcohol spectrum disorder and other conditions in children that affect their physical and mental development. Many countries advise women who are pregnant or trying to conceive to avoid drinking alcohol entirely. However, surveys of large groups of women in Western countries indicate that most women continue drinking low to moderate amounts of alcohol until they discover they are pregnant and then stop consuming alcohol for the rest of their pregnancy. It remains unclear how this common drinking pattern affects the foetus. The instructions needed to build and maintain a human body are stored within molecules of DNA. Some regions of DNA called genes contain the instructions to make proteins, which perform many tasks in the body. Other so-called 'non-coding' regions do not code for any proteins but instead have roles in regulating gene activity. One way cells control which genes are switched on or off is adding or removing tags known as methyl groups to certain locations on DNA. Previous studies indicate that alcohol may affect how children develop by changing the patterns of methyl tags on DNA. To investigate the effect of moderate drinking during the early stages of pregnancy, Bestry et al. exposed pregnant mice to alcohol and examined how this affected the patterns of methyl tags on DNA in their offspring. The experiments found moderate levels of alcohol were sufficient to alter the patterns of methyl tags in the brains and livers of the newborn mice. Most of the changes were observed in non-coding regions of DNA, suggesting alcohol may affect how large groups of genes are regulated. Fewer changes in the patterns of methyl tags were found in mice whose mothers had diets rich in two essential nutrients known as folate and choline. Further experiments found that some of the affected mouse genes were similar to genes linked to foetal alcohol spectrum disorder and other related conditions in humans. These findings highlight the potential risks of consuming even moderate levels of alcohol during pregnancy and suggest that a maternal diet rich in folate and choline may help mitigate some of the harmful effects on the developing foetus.

Asunto(s)

Metilación de ADN , Efectos Tardíos de la Exposición Prenatal , Animales , Metilación de ADN/efectos de los fármacos , Femenino , Embarazo , Efectos Tardíos de la Exposición Prenatal/genética , Ratones , Humanos , Dieta , Masculino , Etanol/efectos adversos , Etanol/toxicidad , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Encéfalo/efectos de los fármacos , Encéfalo/embriología , Encéfalo/metabolismo , Trastornos del Espectro Alcohólico Fetal/genética , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/embriología

RESUMEN

Arsenic is a toxic metal-like element widely used in the pesticide, preservative and semiconductor industries. However, accumulation of arsenic through the food chain can cause serious damage to animal and human health. However, the toxic mechanism of arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity in chickens is not clear, and the present study aimed to investigate the potential role of cGAS-STING and NF-κB pathways on inflammatory injury in chicken liver. In this study, 75 white-feathered broilers were divided into a control group, a low-dose arsenic group (4 mg/kg) and a high-dose arsenic group (8 mg/kg) to investigate the toxic effects of arsenic on chicken liver. In this study, we found that pathological changes such as inflammatory cell infiltration and vesicular degeneration occurred in the liver when exposed to ATO. Crucially, exposure to ATO triggered the cGAS-STING pathway and markedly raised the levels of mRNA and protein expression of cGAS, STING, TBK1, and IRF7. The type I interferon response was also triggered. Simultaneously, STING induced the activation of the conventional NF-κB signaling pathway and stimulated the expression of genes associated with inflammation, such as IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1ß. In summary, the induction of inflammatory responses via cGAS-STING and NF-κB signaling pathways under high ATO exposure provides new ideas for further studies on the toxicological mechanisms of arsenic.

Asunto(s)

Trióxido de Arsénico , Pollos , Inmunidad Innata , Hígado , FN-kappa B , Nucleotidiltransferasas , Transducción de Señal , Animales , Trióxido de Arsénico/toxicidad , FN-kappa B/metabolismo , Inmunidad Innata/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/patología , Hígado/inmunología , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Nucleotidiltransferasas/metabolismo , Proteínas de la Membrana/metabolismo , Proteínas de la Membrana/genética , Inflamación/inducido químicamente , Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas , Proteínas Aviares/metabolismo , Proteínas Aviares/genética

RESUMEN

Kupffer cells (KC),an important subset of immune cells in the liver,are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and responding quickly to liver damage.The complement receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily (CRIg) is a receptor protein on the KC membrane.CRIg can not only capture pathogens in the blood flowing through the liver by complement binding but also mediate immune responses by regulating immune cells in the liver.Recent studies have confirmed the role of CRIg in regulating liver immunity.This article reviews the main modes of action of CRIg and the research progress of CRIg in regulating liver immunity.

Asunto(s)

Macrófagos del Hígado , Hígado , Receptores de Complemento , Humanos , Hígado/inmunología , Hígado/metabolismo , Macrófagos del Hígado/inmunología , Macrófagos del Hígado/metabolismo , Receptores de Complemento/inmunología , Receptores de Complemento/metabolismo , Animales

RESUMEN

Intratumoral injections have the potential for enhanced cancer treatment efficacy while reducing costs and systemic exposure. However, intratumoral drug injections can result in substantial off-target leakage and are invisible under standard imaging modalities like ultrasound (US) and x-ray. A thermosensitive poloxamer-based gel for drug delivery was developed that is visible using x-ray imaging (computed tomography (CT), cone beam CT, fluoroscopy), as well as using US by means of integrating perfluorobutane-filled microbubbles (MBs). MBs content was optimized using tissue mimicking phantoms and ex vivo bovine livers. Gel formulations less than 1% MBs provided gel depositions that were clearly identifiable on US and distinguishable from tissue background and with minimal acoustic artifacts. The cross-sectional areas of gel depositions obtained with US and CT imaging were similar in studies using ex vivo bovine liver and postmortem in situ swine liver. The gel formulation enhanced multimodal image-guided navigation, enabling fusion of ultrasound and x-ray/CT imaging, which may enhance targeting, definition of spatial delivery, and overlap of tumor and gel. Although speculative, such a paradigm for intratumoral drug delivery might streamline clinical workflows, reduce radiation exposure by reliance on US, and boost the precision and accuracy of drug delivery targeting during procedures. Imageable gels may also provide enhanced temporal and spatial control of intratumoral conformal drug delivery.

Asunto(s)

Sistemas de Liberación de Medicamentos , Hidrogeles , Hígado , Poloxámero , Ultrasonografía , Poloxámero/química , Animales , Hidrogeles/química , Hígado/diagnóstico por imagen , Hígado/metabolismo , Bovinos , Ultrasonografía/métodos , Sistemas de Liberación de Medicamentos/métodos , Microburbujas , Porcinos , Fantasmas de Imagen , Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X/métodos , Tomografía Computarizada de Haz Cónico/métodos

RESUMEN

RATIONALE: Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), encompass steroidal androgens such as testosterone, as well as synthetic counterparts with similar structures and effects. The misuse of AAS has increased over the years, leading to ethical and welfare concerns in sports. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) have banned AAS in relevant sports. Methandienone is one of the most identified anabolic androgenic steroids in sports drug testing, Therefore, reliable detection methods are crucial for effective doping control and maintaining the integrity of the sports. METHODS: This study explores the use of homogenized camel liver for detecting methandienone metabolites in camels. The biotransformation pathways of methandienone in homogenized camel liver tissues are analyzed using Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-HRMS) to identify and characterize the phase I and phase II metabolites. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo-Hypersil C18 column. RESULTS: The study has identified 11 methandienone metabolites (M1-M11), this includes 10 phase I and one phase II metabolite. A glucuronic acid conjugate of methandienone was observed in this study, but no sulfonic acid conjugations were found. The metabolites and their possible chemical structures, along with their fragmentation patterns are confirmed using MSMS (MS2) experiments in data-independent acquisition (DIA) mode. CONCLUSIONS: These findings serve as a vital tool for the rapid detection of methandienone, combating its illicit use in camel racing. Comprehensive screenings covering both the parent drug and its metabolites are recommended to improve detection accuracy and ensure regulatory compliance in sports doping. Future research should explore methandienone's metabolite profile in administered camel samples.

Asunto(s)

Anabolizantes , Camelus , Doping en los Deportes , Hígado , Detección de Abuso de Sustancias , Animales , Doping en los Deportes/prevención & control , Detección de Abuso de Sustancias/métodos , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/química , Anabolizantes/análisis , Anabolizantes/metabolismo , Cromatografía Liquida/métodos , Espectrometría de Masas/métodos , Metandrostenolona/metabolismo , Metandrostenolona/análisis , Metandrostenolona/química , Cromatografía Líquida con Espectrometría de Masas

RESUMEN

As a well-known Uyghur medicine, Shi-Liu-Bu-Xue Syrup (SLBXS) has been widely used to treat anemia in China for over 20 years. However, the underlying mechanisms of its effectiveness in treating anemia remain unclear. In this study, liver metabolomics was primarily employed to determine the potential regulatory mechanisms of SLBXS in treating anemia. Liver metabolomics profiling was conducted to characterize the mechanism of action of SLBXS in an acetylphenylhydrazine-induced mouse model of anemia. SLBXS was shown to decrease liver index, white blood cell count, and platelet count, while increasing red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. Core targets were selected for verification using Western blotting. SLBXS demonstrated a significant therapeutic effect on anemia primarily by regulating galactose metabolism and the HIF-1 signaling pathway, as indicated by the downregulation of HIF-1α, NOS3, VEGFA, and GLA proteins in the liver tissues of anemic mice. This study clarifies the potential regulatory mechanisms of hepatic metabolism by SLBXS administration in treating anemia.

Asunto(s)

Anemia , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos , Hígado , Metabolómica , Animales , Ratones , Hígado/metabolismo , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Metabolómica/métodos , Anemia/metabolismo , Anemia/tratamiento farmacológico , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/farmacología , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/administración & dosificación , Masculino , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad