Pulmonary toxicity of inhaled nano-sized cerium oxide aerosols in Sprague–Dawley rats

Abstract

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂NPs), used in some diesel fuel additives to improve fuel combustion efficiency and exhaust filter operation, have been detected in ambient air and concerns have been raised about their potential human health impact. The majority of CeO₂NP inhalation studies undertaken to date have used aerosol particles of larger sizes than the evidence suggests are emitted from vehicles using such fuel additives. Hence, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of inhaled CeO₂NP aerosols of a more environmentally relevant size, utilizing a combination of methods, including untargeted multi-omics to enable the broadest possible survey of molecular responses and synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy to investigate cerium speciation. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed by nose-only inhalation to aerosolized CeO₂NPs (mass concentration 1.8?mg/m³, aerosol count median diameter 40?nm) for 3?h/d for 4 d/week, for 1 or 2 weeks and sacrificed at 3 and 7?d post-exposure. Markers of inflammation changed significantly in a dose- and time-dependent manner, which, combined with results from lung histopathology and gene expression analyses suggest an inflammatory response greater than that seen in studies using micron-sized ceria aerosols. Lipidomics of lung tissue revealed changes to minor lipid species, implying specific rather than general cellular effects. Cerium speciation analysis indicated a change in Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ ratio within lung tissue. Collectively, these results in conjunction with earlier studies emphasize the importance of aerosol particle size on toxicity determination. Furthermore, the limited effect resolution within 7?d suggested the possibility of longer-term effects.     

Metabolomic analysis on the toxicological effects of TiO2 nanoparticles in mouse fibroblast cells: from the perspective of perturbations in amino acid metabolism

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO₂) have been widely applied in daily life and subsequent problem on the potential health risk are raised. Studies on the toxicity of nano-TiO₂ have shown that they could lead to toxic effects on human and environment. However, the mechanisms are still unclear. We investigated the change of amino acid levels in L929 cells after nano-TiO₂ exposure using gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC/TOFMS)-based metabolomics approach. Spectral profiles were subjected to multivariate statistics, namely, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Orthogonal Projections to Latent Structures-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA). Using MetaboAnalyst 2.0, it was found that 7 metabolic pathways (impact-value >0.10) among the regulated pathways were significantly perturbed. Twelve distinct amino acids are identified from these pathways, including l-α-alanine, β-alanine, glycine, l-aspartate, l-methionine, l-cysteine, glutamate, l-pyroglutamate, l-asparagine, l-glutamine, S-adenosylmethionine, and l-lysine. These results show that the disturbed amino acids played an important role in the nano-TiO₂-induced cytotoxicity. Along with earlier findings, we successfully used the metabolomics approaches to manifest nano-TiO₂ toxicity through triggering cellular oxidative stress, energy damage and the inhibition of DNA and RNA synthesis.     

Triterpenoid glycosides from Stauntonia chinensis

A new bidesmoside triterpenoid saponin, named stauntoside C1 (1), along with three known saponins (2–4) was isolated from Stauntonia chinensis DC. (Lardizabalaceae). Their structures were established by means of spectral and chemical methods as 3-O-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-O-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α-l-arabinopyranosyl oleanolic acid 28-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-d-glucopyranosyl ester (1), scabiosaponin E (2), sieboldianoside B (3), and kizutasaponin K₁₂ (4).     

S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine and it (R/S)-S-oxides in beagle dog plasma and hepatic cytosol

Abstract

1. Incubation of beagle hepatic cytosol, under conditions promoting phenylalanine hydroxylase activity, led to the formation of the sulfoxide derivatives of S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine, N-acetyl-S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine, S-methyl-l-cysteine and N-acetyl-S-methyl-l-cysteine. Thiodiglycolic acid was not a substrate. Enzyme kinetic parameters (K_m, V_max) were derived indicating S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine had the greatest clearance; no enantioselective preference was observed for this S-oxygenation reaction.

2. Following oral administration of S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine to beagle dogs, the parent substance and its sulfoxide were the only compounds identified in the plasma. Pharmacokinetic data have been obtained indicating that the small amount of sulfoxide formed persisted within the body for longer than the parent material, but that the majority of the ingested dose remained in the administered sulfide form.

3. The sulfide moiety within the muco-regulatory drug, S-carboxymethyl-l-cysteine, is thought to be vital as it acts as a free radical scavenger, resulting in the inactive sulfoxide. Additional extensive enyzme-mediated sulfoxidation would decrease the amount of active sulfide available. In the dog this appears to not be an issue, signalling possible exploitation for therapeutic benefit in treating airway disease.     

l-Peptide functionalized dual-responsive nanoparticles for controlled paclitaxel release and enhanced apoptosis in breast cancer cells

Nanoparticles and macromolecular carriers have been widely used to increase the efficacy of chemotherapeutics, largely through passive accumulation provided by their enhanced permeability and retention effect. However, the therapeutic efficacy of nanoscale anticancer drug delivery systems is severely truncated by their low tumor-targetability and inefficient drug release at the target site. Here, the design and development of novel l-peptide functionalized dual-responsive nanoparticles (l-CS-g-PNIPAM-PTX) for active targeting and effective treatment of GRP78-overexpressing human breast cancer in vitro and in vivo are reported. l-CS-g-PNIPAM-PTX NPs have a relative high drug loading (13.5%) and excellent encapsulation efficiency (74.3%) and an average diameter of 275?nm. The release of PTX is slow at pH 7.4 and 25?°C but greatly accelerated at pH 5.0 and 37?°C. MTT assays and confocal experiments showed that the l-CS-g-PNIPAM-PTX NPs possessed high targetability and antitumor activity toward GRP78 overexpressing MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. As expected, l-CS-g-PNIPAM-PTX NPs could effectively treat mice bearing MDA-MB-231 human breast tumor xenografts with little side effects, resulting in complete inhibition of tumor growth and a high survival rate over an experimental period of 60 days. These results indicate that l-peptide-functionalized acid – and thermally activated – PTX prodrug NPs have a great potential for targeted chemotherapy in breast cancer.     

Delayed low-dose supplemental oxygen improves survival following phosgene-induced acute lung injury

Phosgene is a chemical widely used in the plastics industry and has been used in warfare. It produces life-threatening pulmonary edema within hours of exposure; no antidote exists. This study examines pathophysiological changes seen following treatment with elevated inspired oxygen concentrations (Fio₂), in a model of phosgene-induced acute lung injury. Anesthetized pigs were exposed to phosgene (Ct 2500?mg min m^?3) and ventilated (intermittent positive pressure ventilation, tidal volume 10?ml kg^?1, positive end-expiratory pressure 3?cm H₂O, frequency 20 breaths min^?1). The Fio₂ was varied: group 1, Fio₂ 0.30 (228?mm Hg) throughout; group 2, Fio₂ 0.80 (608?mm Hg) immediately post exposure, to end; group 3, Fio₂ 0.30 from 30?min post exposure, increased to 0.80 at 6?h post exposure; group 4, Fio₂ 0.30 from 30?min post exposure, increased to 0.40 (304?mm Hg) at 6?h post exposure. Group 5, Fio₂ 0.30 from 30?min post exposure, increased to 0.40 at 12?h post exposure. The current results demonstrate that oxygen is beneficial, with improved survival, arterial oxygen saturation, shunt fraction, and reduced lung wet weight to body weight ratio in all treatment groups, and improved arterial oxygen partial pressure in groups 2 and 3, compared to phosgene controls (group 1) animals. The authors recommend that treatment of phosgene-induced acute lung injury with inspired oxygen is delayed until signs or symptoms of hypoxia are present or arterial blood oxygenation falls. The lowest concentration of oxygen that maintains normal arterial oxygen saturation and absence of clinical signs of hypoxia is recommended.     

Compounds from the pods of Astragalus armatus with antioxidant,anticholinesterase, antibacterial and phagocytic activities

Context: The phytochemical study and biological activities of Astragalus armatus Willd. subsp. numidicus (Fabaceae) pods, an endemic shrub of Maghreb, are reported.

Objective: This study isolates the secondary metabolites and determines the bioactivities of Astragalus armatus pods.

Materials and methods: The chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts of hydro-ethanolic extracts were studied. Antioxidant activity was investigated using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging, CUPRAC and ferrous chelating assays at concentrations ranging from 3 to 200?μg/mL. Anticholinesterase activity was determined against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes at 50, 100 and 200?μg/mL. Antibacterial activity was performed according to minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Carbon clearance method in albino mice was used for the phagocytic activity at concentrations 50, 70 and 100?mg/kg body weight. Spectroscopic techniques were used to elucidate the compounds.

Results: Ethyl acetate extract afforded a flavonoid (1) while the n-butanol extract gave four flavonoids (2–5), a cyclitol (6) and a cycloartane-type saponin (7). The ethyl acetate extract exhibited highest antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC₅₀: 67.90?±?0.57?μg/mL), ABTS (IC₅₀: 11.30?±?0.09?μg/mL) and CUPRAC (A_0.50: 50.60?±?0.9?μg/mL) assays. The chloroform extract exhibited the best antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, each with 80?μg/mL MIC values. The n-butanol extract enhanced phagocytic activity.

Discussion and conclusion: Isorhamnetin (1), isorhamnetin-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-d-galactopyranoside (2), isorhamnetin-3-O-β-d-apiofuranosyl-(1 → 2)-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)]-β-d-galactopyranoside (3), kaempferol-3-O-(2,6-di-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-d-galactopyranoside (4), kaempferol-3-O-(2,6-di-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-d-glucopyranoside (5), pinitol (6) and cyclomacroside D (7) were isolated whereas 1, 2, 6 and 7 are reported for the first time from A. armatus.     

Hesperidin,a citrus flavonoid,protects against l-methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinemia by abrogation of oxidative stress,endothelial dysfunction and neurotoxicity in Wistar rats

Context: Hesperidin (HSP), a flavanoglycone found in citrus fruits, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

Objective: This study evaluates the protective effect of HSP on l-methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) in rats.

Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups as DMSO, l-methionine, HSP (25, 50 and 100?mg/kg), HSP-per se (100?mg/kg) and donepezil (0.1?mg/kg). HHcy was induced by oral administration of l-methionine (1.7?g/kg) for 32 days. From the 14^th day of study HSP (25, 50 and 100?mg/kg) and donepezil was administered orally to l-methionine-treated rats. Cognitive impairment induced by HHcy was determined using the Morris water maze (MWM) and Y-maze on video tracking system (28^th–32^nd day). Different biomarkers of HHcy in serum and brain and vascular reactivity were evaluated and histopathology (thoracic aorta and brain) was done.

Results: HSP (100?mg/kg) treatment in l-methionine-treated rats exhibited significant (p?p?l-methionine on acetylcholine-induced endothelial-dependent relaxation and increased serum nitrite and vascular nitric oxide bioavailability along with the restoration of histological aberrations.

Conclusion: HSP exerts a protective effect on HHcy by abrogating oxidative stress, ED and neurotoxicity.     

Cell membrane disintegration and extracellular vesicle release in a model of different size and charge PAMAM dendrimers effects on cultured endothelial cells

Abstract

Different nanomaterials are under development for various biomedical applications in which nanoparticles contact blood and vasculature. Therefore, investigating the interactions between nanomaterials and vascular endothelial cells (ECs) is of great importance. Here, we show the effects of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers of two different sizes, generation 2 (G2; approximately 3?nm diameter) and generation 7 (G7; 9?nm), with neutral (OH-terminated), anionic (COOH-terminated), and cationic (NH₂-terminated) surface modifications on cultured human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs). We found that only cationic dendrimers (5–100?μg/mL G7-NH₂ and 100?µg/mL G2-NH₂) and not anionic or neutral dendrimers were cytotoxic to HUVECs. In addition, cationic dendrimers at low concentrations (5?μg/mL) markedly increased the HUVEC surface expression of the proinflammatory activation marker ICAM-1 and phosphatidylserine (PS). Both G2-NH₂ and G7-NH₂ dendrimers caused g1 arrest, but only G7-NH₂ dendrimers induced significant HUVEC apoptosis. G7-NH₂ interacted strongly with HUVEC plasma membranes and mitochondrial membranes, and phospholipid vesicles containing G7-NH₂ formed, which resulted in extensive plasma membrane blebbing and disintegration. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis showed that G7-NH₂-treated HUVECs released large numbers of extracellular vesicles (EVs) positive for CD105 and PS. A notable population of EVs positive for the mitochondrial marker TOM20 but negative for the autophagosome marker LC3 was found. In summary, large cationic PAMAM dendrimers (G7-NH₂) showed both proinflammatory and proapoptotic effects in ECs; at high dendrimer concentrations, these effects were accompanied by necrotic cytotoxicity. G7-NH₂ caused plasma and mitochondrial membrane disintegration and the release of EVs, including EVs of mitochondrial origin that were not associated with mitophagy.     

Delayed O-methylation of l-DOPA in MB-COMT-deficient mice after oral administration of l-DOPA and carbidopa

1.?Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is involved in the O-methylation of l-DOPA, dopamine, and other catechols. The enzyme is expressed in two isoforms: soluble (S-COMT), which resides in the cytoplasm, and membrane-bound (MB-COMT), which is anchored to intracellular membranes.

2.?To obtain specific information on the functions of COMT isoforms, we studied how a complete MB-COMT deficiency affects the total COMT activity in the body, peripheral l-DOPA levels, and metabolism after l-DOPA (10?mg kg^?1) plus carbidopa (30?mg kg^?1) administration by gastric tube in wild-type (WT) and MB-COMT-deficient mice. l-DOPA and 3-O-methyl-l-DOPA (3-OMD) levels were assayed in plasma, duodenum, and liver.

3.?We showed that the selective lack of MB-COMT did not alter the total COMT activity, COMT enzyme kinetics, l-DOPA levels, or the total O-methylation of l-DOPA but delayed production of 3-OMD in plasma and peripheral tissues.     

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles prime a specific activation state of macrophages

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) are widely used in foods, cosmetics, and medicine. Although the inhalation toxicity of TiO₂ NPs has been studied, the potential adverse effects of oral exposure of low-dose TiO₂ NPs are largely unclear. Herein, with macrophage cell lines, primary cells, and mouse models, we show that TiO₂ NPs prime macrophages into a specific activation state characterized by excessive inflammation and suppressed innate immune function. After a month of dietary exposure in mice or exposure in vitro to TiO₂ NPs (10 and 50?nm), the expressions of pro-inflammatory genes in macrophages were increased, and the expressions of anti-inflammatory genes were decreased. In addition, for macrophages exposed to TiO₂ NPs in vitro and in vivo, their chemotactic, phagocytic, and bactericidal activities were lower. This imbalance in the immune system could enhance the susceptibility to infections. In mice, after a month of dietary exposure to low doses of TiO₂ NPs, an aggravated septic shock occurred in response to lipopolysaccharide challenge, leading to elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines in serum and reduced overall survival. Moreover, TLR4-deficient mice and primary macrophages, or TLR4-independent stimuli, showed less response to TiO₂ NPs. These results demonstrate that TiO₂ NPs induce an abnormal state of macrophages characterized by excessive inflammation and suppressed innate immune function in a TLR4-dependent manner, which may suggest a potential health risk, particularly for those with additional complications, such as bacterial infections.     

Triterpenoid saponins from the rhizome of Polygonatum sibiricum

Three new triterpenoid saponins, polygonoides C (1), D (2), and E (3), were obtained from the ethanolic extract of the rhizome of Polygonatum sibiricum Redoute. On the basis of NMR and ESI-MS spectra, and chemical evidence, the structures of the three new compounds were elucidated as 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-3β,7β,22β-trihydroxy-oleanolic acid (1), 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-3β,7β,22β-trihydroxy-oleanolic acid methyl ester (2), and 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-[α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl-(1 → 2)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-3β,21β-dihydroxy-oleanolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-glucopyranoside (3).     

Three triterpenoid saponins acylated with monoterpenic acid from Gymnocladus chinensis

A new triterpenoid saponin acylated with monoterpenic acid, together with two known triterpenoid saponins, has been isolated from the fruit of Gymnocladus chinensis Baill. Their structures were elucidated as 2β,23-dihydroxy-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-21-O-{(6S)-2-trans-2,6-dimethyl-6-O-[3-O-(β-D-glucopyranosyl)-4-O-((6S)-2-trans-2,6-dimethyl-6-hydroxy-2,7-octadienoyl)-β-L-arabinopyranosyl]-2,7-octadienoyl}-acacic acid 28-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-[α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (1), gymnocladus saponin E (2), and gymnocladus saponin F₂ (3).     

Cytotoxic triterpenoid saponins from Vaccaria segetalis

By the guidance of bioassay, one new cytotoxic triterpenoid saponin, 3-O-[β-d-galactopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucuronopyranosyl] quillaic acid 28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-[β-d-fucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)]-β-d-fucopyranoside (1), and five known cytotoxic triterpenoid saponins, vaccaroside E (2), vaccaroside G (3), vaccaroside B (4), segetoside H (5) and segetoside I (6), were isolated from Vaccaria segetalis. Their structures were established on the basis of ESI-MS, IR, extensive NMR (¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, TOCSY, ¹H–¹H COSY, DEPT, HMQC, HMBC and ROESY) analyses, chemical degradation, and by comparing with previously reported data. Compounds 1–6 showed moderate cytotoxic activities against LNcap, P-388 and A-549 cell lines with IC₅₀ values in the range 0.1–12.9 μM.     

The administration of l-thyroxine as soft gel capsule or liquid solution

Introduction: Levothyroxine (l-T4) is the mainstay of treating hypothyroidism. The tablet is the traditional formulation of l-T4. Tablet l-T4 malabsorption results from either hindered gastric dissolution of the tablet or binding of l-T4 by sequestrants in the intestinal lumen.

Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the pharmacokinetics of l-T4 formulations available in the market: the tablet, the soft gel capsule and the oral solution. We review literature on the new formulations and anticipate the areas of future research.

Expert opinion: Failure of l-T4 treatment to reach target serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels generally prompts the physicians to increase l-T4 daily dose. In vitro studies have shown that the soft gel capsule releases the active ingredient more consistently at varying pH than the tablet. In addition, in vivo studies have confirmed the in vitro data and have demonstrated that both the soft gel capsule and the liquid formulation are capable to solve tablet l-T4 malabsorption caused by certain drugs, bariatric surgery or coffee. These new formulations may be attractive also for patients who cannot/do not want to change their (improper) habits of l-T4 ingestion. Finally, the oral solution l-T4 could be suitable for patients who cannot swallow the solid formulations.     

Preparation,characterization, and evaluation of amino acid modified magnetic nanoparticles: drug delivery and MRI contrast agent applications

Abstract

This study is a report about the synthesis iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs) which modified with positive and negative charged amino acids (AAs). l-Arginine (Arg) and l-aspartic acid (Asp) which have of guanidinium and carboxylic acid groups, respectively, were selected for this study. After loading chrysin in amino acids modified iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (F@AAs@Chrysin NPs), it was characterized by XRD, TGA, FTIR, VSM, and TEM techniques. Finally, MTT assays on HFF-2 and HEK-293 cell lines were performed for determination of biocompatibility of AA coated IONPs. The results show that, the ζ-potential and average size of F@Arg@chrysin NPs and F@Asp@chrysin NPs were to ?3.87, ?2.12?mV, 18.75?±?2.40 (mean?±?SD (n?=?50)) nm, and 19.86?±?2.22 (mean?±?SD (n?=?48)) nm, respectively. Also, the results indicated that these F@AAs@Chrysin NPs were appropriate for delivery of chrysin. Furthermore, the phantom MRI studies showed the IONPs can be used as contrast agent for the revealing of tumor.     

Two new triterpenoid saponins from ginseng medicinal fungal substance

Two new dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins, namely ginsenosides Rb₄ (1) and Rb₅ (2), were isolated from ginseng medicinal fungal substance. The structures of 1 and 2 were established as 3β,12β,20(S)-trihydroxydammar-24(25)-ene-3-O-[α-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl]-20-O-β-d-glucopyranoside and 3β,12β,20(S)-trihydroxydammar-24(25)-ene-3-O-[α-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-α-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl]-20-O-β-d-glucopyranoside on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical analysis, respectively.     

A pair of isomeric saponins with cytotoxicity from Albizzia julibrissin

Two new saponins have been isolated from the stem barks of Albizzia julibrissin Durazz, and their structures identified as 3-O-[β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-fucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-d-2-deoxy-2-acetoamidoglucopyranosyl]-21-O-{(6S)-2- trans -2-hydroxymethyl-6-methyl-6-O-[4-O-((6S )-2- trans -2-hydroxymethyl-6-hydroxy-6-methyl-2,7-octadienoyl)-β-d-quinovopyranosyl]-2,7-octadienoyl}-acacic acid-28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-[α-l-arabinofuranosyl-(1 → 4)]-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl ester (1) and 3-O-[β-d-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-fucopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-d-2-deoxy-2-acetoamidoglucopyranosyl]-21-O-{(6S)-2-trans-2-hydroxymethyl-6-methyl-6-O-[3-O-((6S)-2-trans-2-hydroxymethyl-6-hydroxy-6-methyl-2,7-octadienoyl)-β-d-quinovopyranosyl]-2,7-octadienoyl}acacic acid 28-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-[α-l-arabinofuranosyl-(1 → 4)]-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl ester (2), based on chemical and spectral evidences, named as julibroside J₁₉ and julibroside J₁₈, respectively. Both compounds show significant inhibition action against HeLa, Bel-7402 and MDA-MB-435 cancer cell lines in vitro.     

Chlorogenic acid protects d-galactose-induced liver and kidney injury via antioxidation and anti-inflammation effects in mice

Context Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in the aging process and its related hepatic and renal function decline. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is one of the most abundant polyphenol compounds in the human diet. Recently, CGA has shown in vivo and in vitro antioxidant properties.

Objective The current study investigates the effects of protective effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on d-galactose-induced liver and kidney injury.

Materials and methods Hepatic and renal injuries were induced in a mouse model by subcutaneously injection of d-galactose (d-gal; 100?mg/kg) once a day for 8 consecutive weeks and orally administered simultaneously with CGA included in the food (200?mg/kg of diet). The liver and renal functions were examined. Histological analyses of liver and kidney were done by haematoxylin and eosin staining. The oxidative stress markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the liver and the kidney were measured.

Results CGA significantly reduced the serum aminotransferase, serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in d-gal mice (p?<0.05). CGA also restored superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde levels and decreased glutathione content in the liver and kidney in d-gal mice (p?<0.05). Improvements in liver and kidney were also noted in histopathological studies. CGA reduced tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) protein levels in the liver and kidney in d-gal mice (p?<0.05).

Discussion and conclusion These findings suggest that CGA attenuates d-gal-induced chronic liver and kidney injury and that this protection may be due to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities.     

Two new steroidal glycosides from Cynanchum amplexicaule

Two new C₂₁ steroidal glycosides were isolated from the EtOAc fraction of Cynanchum amplexicaule. Their structures were elucidated as amplexicogenin d-3-O-β-d-cymaropyranoside (1) and stauntogenin -3-O-α-l-oleandropyranosyl-(1 → 4)-O-β-d-digitoxopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-O-β-d-oleandropyranoside (2) by spectroscopic analysis including 1D and 2D NMR experiments.