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Keywords = TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways

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21 pages, 15957 KB  
Review
Harnessing Phytobiotics for Gut Protection: A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Cangzhu (Atractylodes lancea) in Sustainable Animal Husbandry
by Mahmoud Soliman, Cheng Du, Xinyu Liu, Liangwenyao Zhao, Hejian Song and Linli Cheng
Animals 2026, 16(17), 2789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172789 - 4 Sep 2026
Viewed by 215
Abstract
The global transition to antibiotic-free livestock production, accelerated by antimicrobial-resistance concerns, has intensified the search for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters, and phytobiotics have emerged as key candidates. Cangzhu, the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC, is a crude drug of traditional [...] Read more.
The global transition to antibiotic-free livestock production, accelerated by antimicrobial-resistance concerns, has intensified the search for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters, and phytobiotics have emerged as key candidates. Cangzhu, the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC, is a crude drug of traditional Chinese medicine that has attracted substantial attention as a multipurpose phytobiotic. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the phytochemistry, gut-protective mechanisms, and practical application of Cangzhu in sustainable livestock production. Its principal bioactive constituents are sesquiterpenoids (atractylone, β-eudesmol, hinesol, atractylenolides I–III), polyacetylenes (including atractylodin), polysaccharides, and flavonoids. Reported gut-protective mechanisms comprise upregulation of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1); dual suppression of the NF-κB and MAPK-signaling pathways; activation of the Nrf2–Keap1 antioxidant axis; modulation of the gut microbiota; and TLR4-mediated stimulation of mucosal immunity. In swine, poultry, and ruminant studies, Atractylodes-based supplementation has been associated with improved growth performance, a lower incidence of diarrhea, favorable intestinal morphology, downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), beneficial microbiota shifts, and inhibited pathogens. However, much of the mechanistic evidence derives from rodent and in vitro models, and much of the in vivo livestock evidence from the related species A. macrocephala (Baizhu) or multi-herb formulations; direct livestock trials with pure A. lancea remain limited for several endpoints, and the responses observed in these heterogeneous studies depend on the formulation, dose, and animal species used, as indicated by the explicit evidence-tier and source-species tags applied throughout the text, tables, and figures. The reported effective inclusion levels should be read as experimental study ranges and not as standardized dose recommendations. Framed within the One Health paradigm, Cangzhu is therefore best characterized as a mechanistically substantiated candidate alternative to antibiotic growth promoters whose adoption requires species-specific dose validation, quality standardization, and commercial-scale economic confirmation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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31 pages, 12933 KB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms of Electroacupuncture-Induced Spinal Microglial Reprogramming in Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Search–Narrative Review
by Boon Khai Teoh, Trang Thi Hoai Nguyen, Kotha Peddanna, Tran Van Bao Quach, Jaung-Geng Lin and Yi-Hung Chen
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(9), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16090914 - 27 Aug 2026
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Background: Neuropathic pain (NP) is a debilitating chronic condition driven by maladaptive neuroimmune interactions in the spinal cord, with microglia playing a central pathological role. Electroacupuncture (EA) has shown analgesic effects in clinical and preclinical studies, but the microglia-centered mechanisms underlying these effects [...] Read more.
Background: Neuropathic pain (NP) is a debilitating chronic condition driven by maladaptive neuroimmune interactions in the spinal cord, with microglia playing a central pathological role. Electroacupuncture (EA) has shown analgesic effects in clinical and preclinical studies, but the microglia-centered mechanisms underlying these effects remain incompletely integrated. This review aims to provide a comprehensive mechanistic synthesis of how EA modulates microglia-associated neuroinflammatory pathways in neuropathic pain. Methods: This systematic search-narrative review used systematic search and screening procedures to identify English-language animal studies published between 2015 and 2025 in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Twenty-six animal studies investigating EA effects on microglia-associated signaling pathways in neuropathic pain models met the inclusion criteria. Because of substantial heterogeneity in neuropathic pain models, EA parameters, molecular endpoints, and behavioral outcomes, findings were synthesized narratively, and no meta-analysis was performed. Results: The reviewed evidence revealed four convergent mechanistic categories through which EA modulates microglial activity: (1) attenuation of purinergic microglial activation via downregulation of IRF8, P2X4R, P2X7R; (2) suppression of innate immune sensing and inflammasome pathways, including TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling; (3) inhibition of downstream inflammatory amplification through p38 MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and COX-2 pathways; and (4) promotion of pro-resolution mechanisms involving IL-10/β-endorphin, PD-L1, GRK2/TREM2/DAP12, α7nAChR, GLP-1R, and GABAergic signaling. Conclusions: The available preclinical evidence suggests that EA modulates multiple microglia-associated pathways, attenuating inflammatory signaling while enhancing selected pro-resolution mechanisms. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for understanding EA-induced analgesia in neuropathic pain and highlight microglial signaling networks as important targets for future experimental and translational investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neuroglia)
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14 pages, 4234 KB  
Article
Salmonella Infection Induces Orchitis and Disrupts the Blood–Testis Barrier, Leading to Spermatogenic Disorders in Mice
by Yingchao Li, Qian Ma, Chenyang Shi, Qirui Zang, Yaolong Song, Mingshuai Chen, Binhuan Ma, Panpan Tong, Zhanqiang Su, Yi Zhang, Shicheng Wan, Aili Aierken and Mengfei Zhang
Microorganisms 2026, 14(8), 1862; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14081862 - 21 Aug 2026
Viewed by 466
Abstract
This study investigated the pathological processes by which two Salmonella strains induce orchitis and impair spermatogenesis in mice, with emphasis on inflammation and blood–testis barrier (BTB) integrity. Thirty male Kunming mice were randomly assigned to the human-derived Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis H71 group, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the pathological processes by which two Salmonella strains induce orchitis and impair spermatogenesis in mice, with emphasis on inflammation and blood–testis barrier (BTB) integrity. Thirty male Kunming mice were randomly assigned to the human-derived Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis H71 group, the sheep-derived Salmonella enterica serovar Agona W42 group, or the phosphate-buffered saline control group (n = 10 per group). An acute orchitis model was established by intrascrotal injection. Histopathological examination revealed marked testicular and epididymal lesions, disruption of the spermatogenic epithelium, and reduced sperm abundance in infected mice. Transcriptomic analysis identified 4546 differentially expressed genes shared by the two infected groups and showed enrichment of the Toll-like receptor (TLR), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Real-time quantitative PCR further showed increased expression of interleukin 6 (Il6), interleukin 1 beta (Il1b), and tumor necrosis factor (Tnf), accompanied by reduced expression of tight junction protein 1 (Tjp1), occludin (Ocln), and synaptonemal complex protein 3 (Sycp3) in infected mice (p < 0.05), except for Tjp1 in the W42 group. These findings indicate that Salmonella-induced inflammatory activation is associated with BTB disruption and impaired spermatogenesis, providing a basis for further investigation of bacterial orchitis and zoonotic reproductive risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology and Immunology)
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29 pages, 22506 KB  
Article
The Characterization of a New AG-II-like Glycoprotein from Cynanchum thesioides (Freyn) K. Schum and Its Immunostimulatory Activity Through Activation of TLR4/9-Mediated MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Pathways
by Mu Dan, Peng Zhao, Lu Ga, Wenming Bai, Pengwei Zhao, Han Ge, Ruirui Wang, Surina Bo and Munkhtsetseg Baatar
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(8), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48080804 - 8 Aug 2026
Viewed by 275
Abstract
The structural and immunomodulatory properties of arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) from edible medicinal plants remain largely unexplored. Here, A homogenous AG-II-like arabinogalactan protein (CTSP-W2, 9862 Da) was isolated from Cynanchum thesioides via hot-water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and column chromatography. Its structure was thoroughly characterized [...] Read more.
The structural and immunomodulatory properties of arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) from edible medicinal plants remain largely unexplored. Here, A homogenous AG-II-like arabinogalactan protein (CTSP-W2, 9862 Da) was isolated from Cynanchum thesioides via hot-water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and column chromatography. Its structure was thoroughly characterized by high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Congo-red, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), methylation analysis. The mechanism of immune activity was examined using specific inhibitors, Western blotting, and molecular docking. It comprises galactose, arabinose, glucose, galacturonic acid, xylose, and 18 amino acids (asparagine-rich), with a backbone of →3,6)-Galp-(1→ and →6)-Galp-(1→. CTSP-W2 significantly enhanced macrophage proliferation, phagocytosis, and secretion of Nitric oxide (NO), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). Inhibitor assays showed that Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4, TAK-242) and Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9, E6446) antagonists markedly reduced CTSP-W2-induced TNF-α, IL-6, and NO in a dose-dependent manner, whereas Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) inhibition (C29) unexpectedly upregulated these mediators. Western blot revealed that CTSP-W2 upregulated TLR4 and TLR9 protein expression and increased phosphorylation of Inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B alpha (IκBα), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB p65), and p38, indicating activation of the TLR4/9–NF-κB–p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling axis. Furthermore, Molecular docking analysis further indicated that CTSP-W2 forms extremely strong hydrogen-bonding and hydrophobic interactions with TLR4 through its galactose chains. This study elucidates the immunoregulatory mechanism of CTSP-W2 and establishes a molecular basis for arabinogalactan proteins as potential natural immunomodulators. Full article
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35 pages, 3367 KB  
Review
Hydrogen Sulfide-Regulated NF-κB Signaling via Persulfidation: A Review
by Liang Xu, Keke Liang, Renjie Wang, Yanling Ta, Yongrun Yang, Jiaxing Wang, Xianxie Zhang, Yuguang Wang, Chengrong Xiao, Yihao Wang and Maoxing Li
Biomolecules 2026, 16(8), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16081130 - 3 Aug 2026
Viewed by 533
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important endogenous gaseous signaling molecule that regulates diverse physiological and pathological processes through protein persulfidation. As a central regulator of inflammation and immune responses, NF-κB signaling is precisely controlled by post-translational modifications, and its dysregulation contributes [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important endogenous gaseous signaling molecule that regulates diverse physiological and pathological processes through protein persulfidation. As a central regulator of inflammation and immune responses, NF-κB signaling is precisely controlled by post-translational modifications, and its dysregulation contributes to various inflammatory diseases. Recent studies reveal that H2S-mediated persulfidation is a key mechanism for fine-tuning NF-κB activity by targeting critical components, including p65, IKKβ, IκBα, and upstream regulators. Through site-specific S-sulfhydration, H2S modulates IKK activation, IκBα degradation, and p65 nuclear translocation, thereby limiting excessive NF-κB activation and inflammatory cytokine production. This review provides an integrated view of how endogenous H2S production and persulfidation-dependent signaling regulate inflammatory responses. Rather than simply summarizing individual pathways, we focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying H2S-mediated regulation of NF-κB-associated networks, including TLR4/NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/NF-κB, and MAPK/NF-κB pathways, and highlight its roles in oxidative stress, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and tissue repair. We further discuss current challenges in identifying persulfidation sites, understanding endogenous H2S regulation, and improving detection technologies. By proposing H2S as a precision modulator of inflammatory signaling, this review provides new insights into H2S biology and highlights future opportunities for developing targeted H2S-based therapeutic strategies. Full article
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29 pages, 6090 KB  
Review
The Role of Flavonoids in Alleviating Mammary Gland Inflammation: A Review
by Abdul Qadeer, Mohamed Tharwat, Ibrahim F. Halawani, Fuad M. Alzahrani, Khalid J. Alzahrani, Fahad A. Alshanbari and Muhammad Zahoor Khan
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(8), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13080743 - 26 Jul 2026
Viewed by 562
Abstract
Mammary gland inflammation, clinically expressed as mastitis in dairy ruminants and lactating women, arises from a self-amplifying loop of pathogen sensing, oxidative stress and innate immune activation, and remains a leading driver of antibiotic use, milk-quality loss and morbidity. Mounting pressure to reduce [...] Read more.
Mammary gland inflammation, clinically expressed as mastitis in dairy ruminants and lactating women, arises from a self-amplifying loop of pathogen sensing, oxidative stress and innate immune activation, and remains a leading driver of antibiotic use, milk-quality loss and morbidity. Mounting pressure to reduce antimicrobial dependence has refocused attention on flavonoids—structurally diverse plant polyphenols with multi-target bioactivity, derived mainly from in vitro and rodent mastitis models. This review integrates contemporary evidence on the six principal flavonoid subclasses within a unifying molecular framework. Across subclasses, flavonoids converge on shared targets: the TLR4–MyD88–NF-κB axis, MAPK cascades, the Keap1–Nrf2–ARE antioxidant pathway, the NLRP3 inflammasome and tight-junction proteins of the blood–milk barrier. Less canonical mechanisms—m6A epitranscriptomic regulation, ferroptosis suppression, AhR signalling, anti-virulence binding to bacterial enzymes such as IGPD, and gut-microbiota-driven remodelling of the gut–mammary axis—expand the pharmacological landscape. We additionally appraise the subclasses comparatively, identifying flavanones and the flavone baicalin as carrying the strongest translational evidence, and examine the conflicting findings, model limitations, and delivery, residue and regulatory barriers that currently separate mechanistic promise from on-farm application. We outline structure–activity considerations and translational priorities, and position flavonoids as mechanism-rich, antibiotic-sparing candidates for the prevention and adjunctive management of mammary gland inflammation in dairy ruminants. Full article
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16 pages, 3752 KB  
Article
Is Oestradiol a Key Player in the Sex Differences in Innate Immunity Through Toll-like Receptor Activation?
by Alexandros Popotas, Anne Delbaere, Georges Casimir, Francis Corazza, Viviane De Maertelaer and Nicolas Lefèvre
Cells 2026, 15(14), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15141257 - 13 Jul 2026
Viewed by 497
Abstract
Research has shown a sex-specific immune response, with males having a worse prognosis in acute inflammatory diseases. While these disparities were initially attributed to sex hormones, increasing evidence points to a predominant role for X-linked genetic factors. Toll-like receptors and several components of [...] Read more.
Research has shown a sex-specific immune response, with males having a worse prognosis in acute inflammatory diseases. While these disparities were initially attributed to sex hormones, increasing evidence points to a predominant role for X-linked genetic factors. Toll-like receptors and several components of their signaling pathway are encoded on the X chromosome and may contribute to these differences. We investigated whether increase in circulating oestradiol influences TLR-dependent immune response. Sixteen women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilisation were studied. Whole blood collected before treatment, during stimulation and at ovulation triggering was stimulated with ligands targeting TLR2/6, TLR1/2, TLR4 and TLR7/8. TLR2, TLR4 and CD99 expression, intracellular phosphorylated NF-κB p65, ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, and cytokine production were assessed. Oestradiol levels increased markedly during treatment (48.1 to 1819.5 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Despite this rise, no or minimal impact on TLR2/4 and CD99 expression, intracellular signalling or cytokine release was detected. Only IL-6 and IL-10 in response to TLR2/6 stimulation increased significantly, with IL-6 positively associated with oestradiol variation. These findings indicate that oestradiol exerts a limited influence on TLR-dependent immune responses, supporting our view that sex-based immune differences are driven primarily by genetic rather than hormonal factors. Full article
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25 pages, 8308 KB  
Article
Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals Inflammatory, Fibrotic, and Apoptotic Signatures in a Methionine–Choline-Deficient Diet-Induced Murine Model of Metabolism-Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis
by Yih-Dih Cheng, Hong-Yi Chiu, Yu-Jen Chiu, Miau-Rong Lee, Shih-Chang Tsai and Jai-Sing Yang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 6033; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27136033 - 5 Jul 2026
Viewed by 646
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH; formerly non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH) is characterized by oxidative stress, inflammatory activation, hepatocellular injury, and progressive liver dysfunction. However, the global transcriptomic landscape underlying stress-induced hepatic injury remains incompletely understood. In this study, we employed a methionine–choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced murine [...] Read more.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH; formerly non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH) is characterized by oxidative stress, inflammatory activation, hepatocellular injury, and progressive liver dysfunction. However, the global transcriptomic landscape underlying stress-induced hepatic injury remains incompletely understood. In this study, we employed a methionine–choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced murine model to characterize the phenotypic and transcriptomic alterations associated with liver injury. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed either a control or MCD diet, and hepatotoxicity was assessed by survival analysis, body and liver weight measurements, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, histopathological examination, RNA sequencing, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MCD feeding markedly reduced survival and body weight while inducing hepatomegaly and significant elevations in serum ALT and AST, indicating severe hepatocellular injury. Histopathological analysis demonstrated hepatic steatosis, hepatocellular ballooning, and lobular inflammation without histological evidence of fibrosis. Transcriptomic profiling revealed extensive gene expression remodeling, characterized by activation of inflammatory pathways, enrichment of MAPK-related signaling, dysregulation of lipid metabolism, suppression of antioxidant defense systems, impairment of cytochrome P450-mediated detoxification, and upregulation of apoptosis-associated genes. qRT-PCR further validated the differential expression of representative genes involved in inflammatory signaling (Tlr4, Nfkb1, Nlrp3, and Casp1), MAPK signaling (Fos), xenobiotic metabolism (Cyp4f18), lipid metabolism (Apoa4 and Lpl), extracellular matrix remodeling (Mmp12), and oxidative stress responses (Sod1 and Gstp1). In addition, elevated serum TNF-α levels provided protein-level evidence supporting activation of the TLR4/NF-κB/TNF-α/NLRP3 inflammatory axis. Although fibrosis-associated transcriptional responses were detected, the absence of histological fibrosis suggests transcriptional priming of fibrogenic pathways rather than established fibrogenesis. Collectively, these findings provide a transcriptomic framework linking oxidative stress, impaired detoxification, inflammatory activation, and stress-responsive signaling to MCD-induced hepatic injury. The MCD model provides a valuable experimental platform for characterizing hepatic stress-response transcriptomes and for generating hypotheses that can subsequently be evaluated in environmentally relevant toxicological models. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised when extrapolating these findings to obesity-associated human MASLD, as the MCD model lacks key metabolic features of the human disease, including obesity and insulin resistance. Therefore, the present findings should be interpreted primarily as transcriptomic signatures of stress-induced hepatic injury rather than as a direct representation of the pathophysiological processes underlying human obesity-associated MASLD. Full article
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22 pages, 684 KB  
Review
MEK Inhibitors and Toll-like Receptor Signaling: Implications for Infection and Inflammation
by Oliver Planz
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135666 - 23 Jun 2026
Viewed by 555
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are essential components of the innate immune system that enable host cells to sense microbial and endogenous danger signals and to initiate inflammatory and antimicrobial responses. Activation of TLRs triggers complex intracellular signaling networks that culminate in the induction of [...] Read more.
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are essential components of the innate immune system that enable host cells to sense microbial and endogenous danger signals and to initiate inflammatory and antimicrobial responses. Activation of TLRs triggers complex intracellular signaling networks that culminate in the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, type I interferons, and co-stimulatory molecules. In addition to the well-characterized nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF) pathways, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) play a critical modulatory role in TLR signaling. MAPK/ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitors were originally developed for the treatment of cancer and are widely used in clinical oncology. Accumulating evidence indicates that pharmacological inhibition of MEK/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) signaling profoundly affects immune cell function and TLR-driven responses. Depending on timing, dose, and disease context, MEK inhibition can attenuate excessive inflammation but may also interfere with protective host defense mechanisms. This duality highlights the context-dependent role of MEK/ERK signaling in infection and inflammation. In this review, I summarize current knowledge on the integration of MEK/ERK signaling into TLR-mediated innate immune responses and discuss the immunological consequences of MEK inhibition in infectious and inflammatory settings. By synthesizing mechanistic and translational studies, I aim to provide a framework for understanding MEK inhibitors as immune modulators rather than as broadly acting anti-inflammatory agents. Full article
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20 pages, 17576 KB  
Article
Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Attenuation by Schizophyllum commune Through Regulating Mitochondria-Associated Signaling, Apoptosis, Autophagy, and PINK1/Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy
by Yu-Wen Sun, Te-Kai Sun, Wen-Ping Jiang and Guan-Jhong Huang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5302; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125302 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 499
Abstract
Associated with high morbidity and mortality, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical complication characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondria-associated signaling. Although multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in AKI progression, effective interventions targeting these complex mechanisms are still lacking. [...] Read more.
Associated with high morbidity and mortality, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical complication characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondria-associated signaling. Although multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in AKI progression, effective interventions targeting these complex mechanisms are still lacking. As a medicinal fungus with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Schizophyllum commune (SC) has shown potential biological activities; however, its renoprotective effects in cisplatin-induced AKI remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate SC’s protective effects and underlying mechanisms in a cisplatin-induced AKI mouse model. SC treatment improved renal function and attenuated histopathological damage. It reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, as evidenced by the modulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, SC regulated multiple signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B (TLR4/ NF-κB), PI3K/AKT, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1), and the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase–AMP-activated protein kinase–sirtuin 1 (CaMKK–AMPK–Sirt1) axis. In addition, SC modulated apoptosis, autophagy, and PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin-mediated mitophagy, suggesting improved mitochondrial homeostasis. These findings indicate that SC exerts renoprotective effects and may contribute to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity mitigation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Antioxidant Activity)
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25 pages, 1488 KB  
Review
Deciphering the Structure–Immunomodulatory Function Relationships of Homopolysaccharides
by Gege Hu, Bingyu Yang, Han Song, Yuehan Zeng, Zhuoting Zhang, Yuwen Li, Jian Zhang and Fenghuan Wang
Nutrients 2026, 18(11), 1782; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18111782 - 31 May 2026
Viewed by 790
Abstract
Natural homopolysaccharides (HoPSs), composed of a single monosaccharide type, are increasingly recognized as bioactive macronutrients with broad relevance to nutrition and health. This review summarizes the extraction, structural characterization, and structure-immunomodulatory activity relationships of HoPSs. Drawing on a comprehensive synthesis of existing studies, [...] Read more.
Natural homopolysaccharides (HoPSs), composed of a single monosaccharide type, are increasingly recognized as bioactive macronutrients with broad relevance to nutrition and health. This review summarizes the extraction, structural characterization, and structure-immunomodulatory activity relationships of HoPSs. Drawing on a comprehensive synthesis of existing studies, we integrate current knowledge into a unified hierarchical framework of HoPS structure–function relationships. This framework organizes the literature into three hierarchical levels, including primary structural recognition, mid-level regulatory mechanisms, and functional refinement, while integrating key determinants such as molecular weight, glycosidic linkages, chain conformation, branching, and chemical modifications. By bridging structural glycomics and nutritional immunology, this framework synthesizes current evidence and provides a structured reference for future investigations. HoPSs exert well-established anti-infection and anti-inflammatory effects, alongside important nutritional and metabolic benefits. These outcomes are supported by evidence from cellular receptor signaling (e.g., TLRs, Dectin-1; NF-κB, MAPK pathways), gut microbiota remodeling, and metabolite network interactions. Finally, we discuss current research gaps, particularly in fine structural analysis and multidimensional mechanistic studies, and propose future directions based on precise structural elucidation, multidimensional structure–activity relationship modeling, and interdisciplinary integration. This review aims to bridge structural glycomics with human nutritional immunology, providing a theoretical basis for the structural optimization, immune activity enhancement, and functional food development of natural HoPSs to promote their industrial application in medicine, nutrition, and health. Full article
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36 pages, 2785 KB  
Review
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid-Induced Hepatotoxicity: A Narrative Review on Molecular Mechanisms and Detoxification Strategies
by Yizhuo Fang, Xiaosong Zhang, Chongshan Dai and Zhihui Hao
Antioxidants 2026, 15(5), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15050635 - 16 May 2026
Viewed by 1262
Abstract
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a category of naturally occurring secondary metabolites, are commonly found in various botanical sources. Accumulating evidence indicates that PAs and their biologically active metabolites can interact with cellular components and trigger a variety of toxic effects in animals and humans. [...] Read more.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a category of naturally occurring secondary metabolites, are commonly found in various botanical sources. Accumulating evidence indicates that PAs and their biologically active metabolites can interact with cellular components and trigger a variety of toxic effects in animals and humans. Notably, PAs exhibit significant hepatotoxic potential via nutritional supplements, environmental dissemination, food chain contamination, and broader ecological pollution. In this review, we summarize PA-induced hepatotoxicity in humans and animals and the underlying molecular mechanisms. It involves oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, ER stress, inflammation, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Several key signaling pathways, such as nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), toll like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), p53, farnesoid X receptor (FXR), and pregnane X receptor (PXR), are also implicated. Furthermore, this review discusses diagnostic approaches, metabolic activation pathways, and detoxification strategies targeting PA-induced liver injury. Collectively, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the molecular basis of PA hepatotoxicity and underscores the urgent need for improved risk assessment, early diagnosis, and effective detoxification interventions to mitigate PA-related liver diseases in humans and animals. Full article
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21 pages, 3220 KB  
Article
Gastroprotective Effects of Salvia plebeia via Antioxidant and MAPK/NF-κB-Mediated Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms in Ethanol/HCl-Induced Gastric Injury
by Yun-seong Lee, Sunju So and Hyun-A Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4358; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104358 - 14 May 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 551
Abstract
This study investigated the gastroprotective effects of Salvia plebeia extract (SPE) against acute gastric mucosal injury induced by 150 mM HCl/60% ethanol in rats and explored its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. SPE exhibited strong in vitro antioxidant activity, with DPPH and ABTS radical [...] Read more.
This study investigated the gastroprotective effects of Salvia plebeia extract (SPE) against acute gastric mucosal injury induced by 150 mM HCl/60% ethanol in rats and explored its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. SPE exhibited strong in vitro antioxidant activity, with DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging rates of 86.2 ± 2.4% and 89.1 ± 1.9%, respectively, along with a high total polyphenol content (96.4 ± 3.1 mg gallic acid equivalents/g extract). In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, SPE attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory signaling, as evidenced by reduced TLR4 and JNK expression and restoration of IκBα levels. In vivo, oral administration of SPE (100 or 300 mg/kg) 1 h prior to HCl/ethanol challenge significantly reduced gastric lesion area and improved histopathological damage compared with the HCl/ethanol-treated control group. SPE also increased gastric pH, reduced gastric juice volume, decreased serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6, and downregulated gastric mucosal mRNA expression of Nos2 and Ptgs2. Immunohistochemical analysis further showed that SPE attenuated NF-κB p65 immunoreactivity in gastric tissues. Collectively, these findings suggest that SPE exerts gastroprotective effects through antioxidant activity and suppression of inflammatory responses associated with the MAPK/NF-κB pathway in acute HCl/ethanol-induced gastric injury. Full article
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16 pages, 3790 KB  
Article
ASC-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Suppress Macrophage-Driven Inflammatory Amplification and Contractile Activation of Uterine Smooth Muscle Cells
by Ji-Seon Lee, You-rin Kim, Dogeon Yoon, Ji Hye Park, Tae-Keun Kim, Eun-Kyoung Choi, Jun Hur and Ji-Eun Song
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104273 - 11 May 2026
Viewed by 498
Abstract
Preterm labor is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality and is frequently driven by infection-associated inflammation that promotes premature uterine activation. In this study, we investigated the effects of adipose stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (ASC-EVs) on macrophage-mediated inflammatory signaling in uterine [...] Read more.
Preterm labor is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality and is frequently driven by infection-associated inflammation that promotes premature uterine activation. In this study, we investigated the effects of adipose stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (ASC-EVs) on macrophage-mediated inflammatory signaling in uterine smooth muscle cells (HUtSMCs). An in vitro model was established by treating HUtSMCs with conditioned media derived from LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Activation of signaling pathways was assessed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence, and functional responses were evaluated using calcium flux and collagen gel contraction assays. Conditioned media from LPS-stimulated macrophages induced robust activation of MAPK (ERK1/2 and JNK) and NF-κB signaling, accompanied by IκB degradation and nuclear translocation of phosphorylated p65, whereas ASC-EVs pretreatment significantly attenuated these responses and reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1. Furthermore, macrophage-conditioned media enhanced intracellular calcium flux and contractile activity in HUtSMCs, both of which were suppressed by ASC-EVs. Inhibition of TLR4 signaling in macrophages reduced the inflammatory potency of conditioned media, indicating a key upstream role of macrophage TLR4 activation. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that ASC-EVs suppress macrophage-mediated inflammatory activation and downstream contractile responses, suggesting their potential as a cell-free therapeutic strategy for preventing inflammation-associated preterm labor. Full article
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Review
Preclinical Pharmacological Actions of Alpinetin and Pinocembrin—A Comparative Review
by Xinxiang Chen, Siu Kan Law, Huajian Li, Mei Zhang, Wenying Yu, Yixiao Li, Ying Zhou, Albert Wing Nang Leung, Bo Wu, Chuanshan Xu and Mei Feng
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(5), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19050734 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 1113
Abstract
Background: Human diseases remain a major global health challenge, requiring effective therapeutic strategies. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used in clinical settings. Many natural compounds, such as flavonoids from TCM, exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. Alpinetin and pinocembrin are structurally related [...] Read more.
Background: Human diseases remain a major global health challenge, requiring effective therapeutic strategies. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used in clinical settings. Many natural compounds, such as flavonoids from TCM, exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. Alpinetin and pinocembrin are structurally related flavonoids. Alpinetin is derived from Zingiberaceae plants, and pinocembrin is extracted from wild marjoram (origanum vulgare) or other natural sources. They possess a wide range of pharmacological activities or biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, liver and kidney protection, cardiovascular protection, and antibacterial activities. Methods: The present comparative review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, using four major databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library), as well as CNKI without language restrictions. Results: Pharmacokinetic studies reveal distinct absorption, metabolism, and excretion profiles. Alpinetin and pinocembrin undergo glucuronidation and interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes and transporters. However, alpinetin has demonstrated approximately 1.5-fold higher plasma exposure and slower clearance compared to pinocembrin. Mechanistically, alpinetin exerted therapeutic effects through modulation of the NF-κB/MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and PPAR-γ signaling pathways, resulting in a 2- to 3-fold reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, pinocembrin exerted protective activity through the inhibition of HMGB1/TLR4 signaling, regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress, and activation of Nrf2/HO-1, leading to a 1.8-fold increase in antioxidant enzyme activity. The minimum inhibitory concentrations were reduced by 2- to 4-fold against Gram-positive bacteria compared to alpinetin. Conclusions: These findings highlight the pharmacological potential of alpinetin and pinocembrin as promising candidates for the development of novel anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, liver and kidney protection, cardiovascular protection, and antibacterial agents. However, research on the pharmacological actions of alpinetin and pinocembrin is still in the preclinical stage. Further research is required to validate their efficacy in clinical settings, especially for translation to clinical studies. This is critical to translating these natural flavonoids into effective therapeutic agents while addressing the regulatory challenges and pathways associated with botanical drugs in human diseases. Full article
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