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Search Results (681)

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Keywords = pro-oxidant therapy

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15 pages, 1850 KB  
Article
Investigation of the Protective Effect of Centella asiatica Against Doxorubicin-Induced Testicular Damage in Rats
by Fevzi Bedir, Zeynep Suleyman, Huseyin Kocaturk, Mehmet Sefa Altay, Ferda Keskin Cimen, Durdu Altuner, Mansura Babayeva and Halis Suleyman
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(17), 7883; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27177883 - 3 Sep 2026
Viewed by 214
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is an antineoplastic agent commonly used in cancer therapy that is known for its testicular toxicity. DOX-induced testicular injury involves inflammation, reactive oxygen species, and oxidative stress. Centella asiatica exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The present experimental study aimed to determine [...] Read more.
Doxorubicin (DOX) is an antineoplastic agent commonly used in cancer therapy that is known for its testicular toxicity. DOX-induced testicular injury involves inflammation, reactive oxygen species, and oxidative stress. Centella asiatica exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The present experimental study aimed to determine the potential protective efficacy of Centella asiatica in a rat model of doxorubicin-induced testicular toxicity. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: healthy control (HC), CA, DOX, and CA + DOX (CADX). An oral dose of 200 mg/kg Centella asiatica was administered to the CA and CADX groups. The HC and DOX groups received saline. One hour later, DOX (7.5 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected into the DOX and CADX groups on days 1, 4, and 7. Centella asiatica markedly attenuated the DOX-induced increase in malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, while preventing the decrease in superoxide dismutase activity in testicular tissue (p < 0.001). Centella asiatica reduced the severity of DOX-induced morphological damage in testicular tissue (p < 0.05). Moreover, it partially restored reproductive hormone function. In conclusion, Centella asiatica demonstrates significant potential in mitigating DOX-induced oxidative damage, attenuating testicular injury and preserving the functional integrity of the male reproductive system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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28 pages, 9791 KB  
Article
Trans-Vitisin B Targets Neuroinflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Tau Pathology to Improve Behavioral Outcomes in a Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
by Evgeny Pislyagin, Igor Manzhulo, Irina Agafonova, Anna Starinets, Ekaterina Menchinskaya, Ekaterina Chingizova, Darya Tarbeeva, Sergey Fedoreyev and Dmitry Aminin
Antioxidants 2026, 15(9), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15091112 - 3 Sep 2026
Viewed by 193
Abstract
Current Parkinson’s disease (PD) therapies like Levodopa (L-DOPA) only provide symptomatic relief, highlighting the need for multi-target neuroprotective agents. This study investigates the mechanisms and preclinical effects of trans-vitisin B (tVB), an oligomeric stilbene, in PD models. In LPS-stimulated HMC3 and RAW 264.7 [...] Read more.
Current Parkinson’s disease (PD) therapies like Levodopa (L-DOPA) only provide symptomatic relief, highlighting the need for multi-target neuroprotective agents. This study investigates the mechanisms and preclinical effects of trans-vitisin B (tVB), an oligomeric stilbene, in PD models. In LPS-stimulated HMC3 and RAW 264.7 cells, tVB (0.1–10.0 µM) significantly suppressed reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), COX-2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α), while restoring HSP70 chaperone levels to normalize proteostasis. These findings were validated in vivo using C57BL/6 mice with rotenone-induced chronic PD. Administration of tVB attenuated motor deficits (Cylinder test) and reduced pathological freezing (Open Field) and working memory impairments (Y-maze) in this model, without inducing the dyskinesia-like side effects of L-DOPA treatment in rodents. Histologically, tVB mitigated the loss of dopaminergic neurons (TH+) in the substantia nigra, reduced microglial activation (IBA-1+) and neuronal NO synthase, and suppressed pathological phosphorylated Tau protein (p-TauSer202) accumulation. Unlike L-DOPA’s direct dopaminergic stimulation, tVB’s neuroprotective efficacy is mediated through multilevel regulation of key PD pathogenetic pathways, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired proteostasis. Full article
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20 pages, 32421 KB  
Article
Mechanism of Cinnamaldehyde in Alleviating Staphylococcus aureus-Induced Mammary Inflammatory Response
by Xiaohui Chen, Jingge Wang, Huiyuan Ma, Wenbin Jiang and Guiqin Wang
Animals 2026, 16(17), 2742; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172742 - 2 Sep 2026
Viewed by 164
Abstract
CA, a major bioactive component of cinnamon essential oil, possesses broad-spectrum antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities and is widely recognized as a safe food additive. In the context of exploring natural plant extracts for the prevention and alleviation of bovine mastitis, it is [...] Read more.
CA, a major bioactive component of cinnamon essential oil, possesses broad-spectrum antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities and is widely recognized as a safe food additive. In the context of exploring natural plant extracts for the prevention and alleviation of bovine mastitis, it is noteworthy that research and clinical reports on the use of cinnamon essential oil for bovine mastitis are relatively limited. In this study, S. aureus isolates recovered from subclinical bovine mastitis were used to establish a mastitis infection model, and the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of CA were preliminarily investigated in both mouse mastitis models and mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T). Studies have demonstrated that in a mouse model of mastitis, CA reduces inflammatory cell infiltration, decreases myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and inhibits S. aureus colonization in mammary tissue. CA alleviates oxidative stress by lowering malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and activating the Nrf2/HO-1/xCT antioxidant pathway. In addition, CA suppresses the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway and modulates the expression of Bax and Bcl-2, accompanied by reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), ultimately ameliorating mastitis in mice. In the MAC-T cell infection model, CA significantly inhibited S. aureus adhesion and invasion and decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. CA also activated the Nrf2/HO-1/xCT antioxidant pathway, which led to decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), concurrently inhibited the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, and downregulated apoptotic protein expression, ultimately attenuating inflammation in MAC-T cells. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that CA exerts protective effects against inflammation and oxidative damage in both mammary tissues and epithelial cells infected with S. aureus. Thus, this study provides a theoretical and practical basis for further exploring CA as a candidate therapy for bovine mastitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
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21 pages, 25648 KB  
Article
Iron Oxide Nanozyme for Magnetothermal Activation of ER-TRPV1 Enables Efficient Intravesical Therapy of Bladder Cancer
by Galong Li, Dongyan Li, Bin Lan, Yuanyuan Cheng, Hongxia Liang, Wenli Zhang, Xiaopan Xu and Hongbing Lu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(16), 7475; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27167475 - 21 Aug 2026
Viewed by 280
Abstract
Drug-mediated intravesical therapy is a widely used treatment approach for bladder cancer (BCa), which is limited by poor tumor accumulation and the toxicity of drugs. Herein, a facile approach utilizing magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) for BCa treatment is reported through intravesical instillation of [...] Read more.
Drug-mediated intravesical therapy is a widely used treatment approach for bladder cancer (BCa), which is limited by poor tumor accumulation and the toxicity of drugs. Herein, a facile approach utilizing magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) for BCa treatment is reported through intravesical instillation of tumor-targeting iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), which are coated with anti-FGFR3 antibodies for specific binding to FGFR3 overexpressed on BCa cells. The antibody coating significantly enhanced targeting ability and increased cancer cell uptake. Under an alternating magnetic field (AMF), the IONPs magnetothermally activated TRPV1 on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of BCa and induced Ca2+ overload in RT4 BCa cells. The magnetothermal treatment significantly upregulated the pro-apoptotic gene expression of Bax, Pro-caspase-3, and Cytc in RT4 cells, and downregulated the anti-apoptotic effector gene Bcl-2, ultimately causing augmented apoptosis in cancer cells. The application of intravesical FGFR3-targeting MHT successfully resulted in greater suppression of tumor growth and improved survival rate of mice, compared to the control, IONP, and AMF-treated groups. These results hold significant potential as a transformative modality toward BCa therapeutic application. Full article
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19 pages, 2672 KB  
Article
Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Filipendula ulmaria and Salvia verticillata Extracts Exert Antimetastatic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects Through Redox-Mediated Nrf-2/NF-κB/MMP-2/9 Signaling in Human Colon Cancer Cells
by Miloš Matić, Milica Paunović, Branka Ognjanović, Nikola Srećković, Nevena Mihailović, Vladimir Mihailović and Ana Obradović
Antioxidants 2026, 15(8), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15081035 - 19 Aug 2026
Viewed by 314
Abstract
Cancer metastasis, characterized by the dissemination of malignant cells from the primary tumor to distant organs, remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in solid tumors. In colorectal cancer (CRC), increasing attention has been directed toward therapeutic strategies aimed at suppressing cancer cell [...] Read more.
Cancer metastasis, characterized by the dissemination of malignant cells from the primary tumor to distant organs, remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in solid tumors. In colorectal cancer (CRC), increasing attention has been directed toward therapeutic strategies aimed at suppressing cancer cell migration and invasion rather than solely reducing tumor mass, giving rise to the concept of migrastatic therapies. In the present study, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), previously obtained using aqueous extracts of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Salvia verticillata L., were evaluated for their antimigratory and anti-inflammatory potential in human colorectal carcinoma HCT-116 cells. Treatment with AgNPs induced considerable perturbations in cellular redox homeostasis, as evidenced by increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. These redox alterations were accompanied by a significant inhibition of cancer cell migration, together with reduced expression of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9, key mediators of extracellular matrix remodeling associated with tumor progression. AgNP exposure was associated with activation of the cytoprotective transcription factor Nrf-2 and suppression of the pro-inflammatory NF-κB/COX-2 signaling axis, indicating coordinated modulation of redox-sensitive pathways linked to tumor cell motility and inflammatory responses. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that green-synthesized AgNPs derived from F. ulmaria and S. verticillata exert multi-level regulatory effects on redox balance, inflammatory signaling, and migration-associated molecular markers in colorectal cancer cells. This study supports their potential as promising migrastatic nanocarriers for further investigation in colorectal cancer research. Full article
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25 pages, 9513 KB  
Review
Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Distinct Clinical Entity or Manifestation of Metabolic Heart Disease?
by Saverio D’Elia, Rosa Franzese, Ettore Luisi, Mariarosaria Morello, Gisella Titolo, Chiara Serpico, Achille Solimene, Granata Matteo, Acampora Benito, Francesco Loffredo, Paolo Golino, Francesco Natale and Giovanni Cimmino
Diabetology 2026, 7(8), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology7080160 - 18 Aug 2026
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global epidemic strongly associated with an increased risk of heart failure, independent of coronary artery disease or hypertension. This condition, historically termed diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) and recently redefined as “diabetic myocardial disorder,” remains frequently underdiagnosed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global epidemic strongly associated with an increased risk of heart failure, independent of coronary artery disease or hypertension. This condition, historically termed diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) and recently redefined as “diabetic myocardial disorder,” remains frequently underdiagnosed in its subclinical stages. The objective of this non-systematic review is to synthesize current evidence on the pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic advancements, and evolving therapeutic strategies for diabetic myocardial involvement. Methods: A comprehensive review of contemporary literature was conducted, focusing on recent consensus statements from the ESC and AHA, large-scale epidemiological data (IDF/WHO), and pivotal clinical trials (EMPA-REG, DAPA-HF, and LEADER). We analyzed the role of multimodal imaging—specifically speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) and multiparametric cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)—and circulating biomarkers in early phenotyping. Results: Pathophysiological drivers include lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, and AGE-mediated fibrosis. Advanced imaging techniques, such as global longitudinal strain (GLS) and CMR T1-mapping/ECV quantification, demonstrate superior sensitivity over LVEF in detecting early subendocardial dysfunction and diffuse fibrosis. Furthermore, NT-proBNP serves as a robust prognostic marker for the HFpEF-like trajectory typical of diabetes. Clinically, the therapeutic landscape has shifted with SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, which provide significant cardioprotection and reduction in heart failure hospitalizations through mechanisms beyond glycemic control. Conclusions: Diabetic myocardial disorder represents a complex continuum within the cardiometabolic spectrum. Early detection through multimodal imaging and biomarkers is essential for risk stratification. Integrating novel glucose-lowering therapies with proven cardiovascular benefits is now mandatory to alter the natural history of the disease and prevent progression to overt heart failure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Complications and Comorbidities of Diabetes)
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34 pages, 2684 KB  
Review
The Use of Curcumin to Target Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives
by Jia Zhang, Qipeng Shu, Yuntao Tang, Huilong Liu, Chenxi Zhang, Xiuhong Chen and Shangze Li
Antioxidants 2026, 15(8), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15081025 - 17 Aug 2026
Viewed by 413
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, and dysregulated glucose and lipid metabolism. Sustained hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia promote excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, antioxidant defense depletion, and chronic low-grade inflammation, thereby aggravating [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, and dysregulated glucose and lipid metabolism. Sustained hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia promote excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, antioxidant defense depletion, and chronic low-grade inflammation, thereby aggravating insulin signaling impairment, β-cell injury, and diabetes-related complications. Although current glucose-lowering therapies have improved glycemic control, weight management, and cardiorenal outcomes, oxidative stress and inflammation remain incompletely addressed in many individuals with T2DM. Curcumin, a natural polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa L., exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lipid-regulating, insulin-sensitizing, and tissue-protective activities. Evidence suggests that curcumin may alleviate T2DM-associated oxidative stress by suppressing ROS generation, reducing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activity, modulating the advanced glycation end-product/receptor for advanced glycation end-product (AGE/RAGE) axis, activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE) signaling, preserving mitochondrial homeostasis, and protecting β-cells. It may also inhibit nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (MAPK/JNK) signaling, decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP), improve metabolic tissue inflammation, and attenuate gut-derived inflammation by regulating gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function. However, current clinical evidence mainly supports modest improvements in metabolic, inflammatory, oxidative stress-related, and selected complication-related biomarkers rather than definitive disease-modifying outcomes. Moreover, formulation heterogeneity, low bioavailability, limited pharmacokinetic reporting, and insufficient long-term endpoint data remain major translational barriers. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms, clinical evidence, formulation-dependent interpretation, safety considerations, and translational limitations of curcumin as a candidate adjunctive intervention for T2DM, rather than as a replacement for evidence-based antidiabetic therapy. Full article
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36 pages, 2486 KB  
Review
Exploring the Possible Role of Endometriosis-Associated Dysbiosis in Endometrial Carcinogenesis
by Costin Vlad Anastasiu, Oana Gabriela Dimienescu, Maria Alexandra Dinuță-Smeu, Marius Alexandru Moga, Ovidiu Dan Grigorescu, Gabriela Gugiu and Alina Bisoc
Medicina 2026, 62(8), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62081577 - 17 Aug 2026
Viewed by 463
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Endometriosis is associated with chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, oestrogen-dependent growth, oxidative stress, altered steroid hormone metabolism, compromised epithelial barrier integrity, and the production of bioactive microbial metabolites. These interconnected alterations have been proposed to create, in principle, a permissive local [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Endometriosis is associated with chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, oestrogen-dependent growth, oxidative stress, altered steroid hormone metabolism, compromised epithelial barrier integrity, and the production of bioactive microbial metabolites. These interconnected alterations have been proposed to create, in principle, a permissive local microenvironment for malignant transformation. This narrative review examines whether endometriosis-associated dysregulation of the gut and reproductive tract microbiota may act as a hypothetical biological modulator linking these multi-axis changes to endometrial carcinogenesis, with attention to immunological, endocrine, metabolic, microbial–metabolite, oxidative, and barrier-related pathways. Material and Methods: We narratively integrated current evidence on gut and reproductive tract microbiota alterations relevant to endometrial homeostasis, with emphasis on the estrobolome, low-biomass uterine microbial communities, inflammatory and immune signaling, microbial metabolites, and pathways implicated in carcinogenesis. Results: Available data suggest that dysbiosis may influence endometrial carcinogenesis through interconnected endocrine, inflammatory, metabolic, and immune mechanisms. Attention has been given to loss of Lactobacillus dominance, enrichment of anaerobic and pro-inflammatory taxa, altered estrogen recirculation, progesterone resistance, Toll-like receptor activation, NF-κB/STAT3 signaling, COX-2/PGE2 activity, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway activation, oxidative stress, macrophage polarization, and impaired natural killer cell surveillance. These alterations may contribute to a permissive microenvironment characterized by persistent inflammation, defective immune control, and disrupted endometrial homeostasis. However, the current literature remains limited by small and heterogeneous cohorts, predominantly cross-sectional designs, contamination risk, and marked methodological variability, particularly in low-biomass uterine samples. Conclusions: Current evidence supports the view that microbiome dysregulation is a context-dependent biological modulator that intersects with endocrine, inflammatory, metabolic, immune, oxidative, and barrier-related pathways relevant to endometrial carcinogenesis. Microbiome dysbiosis should be regarded as a hypothetical contributory factor rather than as an established causal driver. Its near-term translational relevance appears greater for biomarker development and risk stratification than for immediate microbiome-directed therapy. Longitudinal, standardized, and functionally integrated studies are needed to clarify whether microbiome-associated signatures can be translated into clinically meaningful prevention and management strategies in endometrial cancer. Full article
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22 pages, 1650 KB  
Review
Spinal Cord Injury-Related Male Infertility: Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Sperm DNA Damage
by Athanasios Zikopoulos, Athanasios Zachariou, Maria Filiponi, Grigorios Daligkaros, Alexandros Zikopoulos, Dimitrios Zachariou, Vasilios-Sebastian Paraschos and Sofia Markoula
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(16), 6312; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15166312 - 15 Aug 2026
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is strongly associated with male infertility, traditionally attributed to erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction. However, accumulating evidence demonstrates that infertility in this population extends beyond neurogenic impairment and involves profound biochemical and molecular alterations within the male reproductive system. The objective [...] Read more.
Spinal cord injury is strongly associated with male infertility, traditionally attributed to erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction. However, accumulating evidence demonstrates that infertility in this population extends beyond neurogenic impairment and involves profound biochemical and molecular alterations within the male reproductive system. The objective of this review is to synthesize current evidence on the role of oxidative stress, inflammation, and sperm DNA damage as central mechanisms driving impaired fertility in men with spinal cord injury. A comprehensive evaluation of clinical and experimental studies indicates that seminal plasma in affected individuals is characterized by elevated reactive oxygen species, reduced antioxidant capacity, and a pro-inflammatory cytokine profile, including increased levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6, and interleukin 1 beta. These alterations are closely linked to leukocytospermia, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disruption of the blood–testis barrier, creating a toxic microenvironment that compromises sperm function. As a consequence, spermatozoa exhibit reduced motility, impaired membrane integrity, and significantly increased DNA fragmentation and chromatin abnormalities. Elevated sperm DNA damage has been consistently associated with poor fertilization outcomes, reduced embryo quality, and increased risk of pregnancy loss in assisted reproductive settings. Importantly, these molecular defects persist even when sperm are retrieved using advanced techniques such as electroejaculation or surgical extraction, highlighting the need for targeted therapeutic strategies. Interventions aimed at reducing oxidative stress and modulating inflammation, including antioxidant supplementation and advanced sperm selection methods, show promise but remain insufficiently standardized. Future research should focus on the development of personalized approaches integrating molecular diagnostics and targeted therapies to improve reproductive outcomes in this population. Collectively, this review reframes spinal cord injury-related infertility as a complex inflammatory and oxidative disorder and underscores the importance of addressing sperm DNA integrity in clinical management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility—2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 413 KB  
Review
Tumor-Driven Inflammation Promotes Tumor Growth: A Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Cancer Treatments
by Victor Ivanovich Seledtsov
Diseases 2026, 14(8), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases14080294 - 14 Aug 2026
Viewed by 405
Abstract
Inflammation can either encourage or suppress tumor growth, thus having a two-sided effect on cancer development. This depends on the balance between pro-tumor and anti-tumor immune responses within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Pro-tumor inflammation, driven by specific immune cells, enhances blood flow and [...] Read more.
Inflammation can either encourage or suppress tumor growth, thus having a two-sided effect on cancer development. This depends on the balance between pro-tumor and anti-tumor immune responses within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Pro-tumor inflammation, driven by specific immune cells, enhances blood flow and nutrient supply to tumors, promoting the activation of dormant cancer cells (DCCs). Conversely, antitumor inflammation hinders blood flow and can force active cancer cells into a state of dormancy. Tumors actively shift this balance towards pro-tumor inflammation to create a favorable environment for growth. Therefore, anti-inflammatory therapy may be an integral part of comprehensive cancer immunotherapy. This review explores how different anti-inflammatory medications, such as glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antihistamines, anti-leukotrienes, statins, drugs that block pro-inflammatory cytokines, agents that inhibit oxidative phosphorylation, antioxidant vitamins, anti-angiogenic drugs, and low-dose chemotherapy, can be used to combat cancer. Granulocyte counts and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can be used to assess inflammation levels and the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory treatments. We advocate for a paradigm shift in cancer treatment, moving away from aggressive tumor destruction, which triggers uncontrolled tumor regeneration, toward long-term immunological control of tumor growth while preserving the patient’s overall health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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21 pages, 6198 KB  
Article
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate ᴅ-Galactose-Induced Testicular Injury by Activating the Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway and Suppressing NLRP3-Associated Pyroptosis
by Mengjia He, Tianhang Yang, Songpo Liu, Dan Zhang, Zhiran Shui, Xianyao Wang, Tao Song, Jun Tan, Qinghong Kong and Jidong Zhang
Antioxidants 2026, 15(8), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15080989 - 10 Aug 2026
Viewed by 404
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate whether human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) protect against ᴅ-galactose (ᴅ-gal)-induced aging-like testicular injury and to investigate the involvement of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway and NLRP3-associated pyroptosis. Methods: A mouse model of aging-like testicular injury was established by subcutaneous administration of [...] Read more.
Objective: To evaluate whether human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) protect against ᴅ-galactose (ᴅ-gal)-induced aging-like testicular injury and to investigate the involvement of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway and NLRP3-associated pyroptosis. Methods: A mouse model of aging-like testicular injury was established by subcutaneous administration of ᴅ-gal for 8 weeks, followed by tail vein injection of ADSCs. Testicular morphology, blood–testis barrier (BTB) integrity, and senescence-associated markers (p16, p21) were assessed. In vitro, TM4 Sertoli cells were used to establish a senescence model and Tranwell co-cultured with ADSCs. Oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and pyroptosis-related markers were evaluated using biochemical assays, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and RT-qPCR. The involvement of the Keap1/Nrf2-NLRP3 axis was further examined using pharmacological inhibitors. Results: ADSC treatment significantly alleviated ᴅ-gal-induced testicular atrophy and histopathological injury, accompanied by reduced expression of the senescence markers p16 and p21 and partial restoration of BTB-related structures. ADSCs also attenuated oxidative stress, as evidenced by decreased ROS and MDA levels, increased SOD activity, and enhanced expression of Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant targets, including HO-1 and NQO1. In parallel, ADSC administration suppressed NLRP3 activation, reduced caspase-1 cleavage, and lowered the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In TM4 cells, inhibition of Nrf2 weakened the protective effects of ADSCs and was accompanied by reactivation of NLRP3-associated signaling, whereas inhibition of NLRP3 attenuated senescence- and inflammation-related changes without restoring Nrf2 activity. Conclusions: ADSCs alleviate ᴅ-gal-induced aging-like testicular injury, at least in part, by restoring redox balance, preserving BTB-associated structure, and suppressing NLRP3-associated pyroptosis through the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. These findings suggest that ADSC-based therapy may represent a promising strategy for age-related male reproductive dysfunction, while further studies using genetic models and functional fertility endpoints are needed to confirm causality and translational relevance. Full article
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21 pages, 9241 KB  
Article
Apigenin Derivatives Alleviate OVA-Induced Oxidative Stress in Bronchial Asthma: A Structure-Activity Relationship Study
by Chenliang Li, Lijin Xiao, Wei Wu, Lingyang Kong, Shuyuan Yue, Zhijie Zhan, Jiao Xu and Wei Ma
Molecules 2026, 31(16), 2768; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31162768 - 9 Aug 2026
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Apigenin (API) is a flavonoid compound widely distributed in nature. The global prevalence of asthma is increasing year by year, influenced by various factors and difficult to cure completely, and new drugs and therapies are constantly emerging. Although API is a low-toxicity flavonoid [...] Read more.
Apigenin (API) is a flavonoid compound widely distributed in nature. The global prevalence of asthma is increasing year by year, influenced by various factors and difficult to cure completely, and new drugs and therapies are constantly emerging. Although API is a low-toxicity flavonoid compound, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability present limitations in the treatment of asthma. In this study, the structure of API was chemically modified by introducing acyl and alkyl groups while preserving its original structure. The structures were identified using FT-IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, yielding derivatives (A–J). To further investigate the effects of structural modifications on API’s biological activity, an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model was established in mice to evaluate the antioxidants’ activity. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe pathological changes in lung tissue, and oxidative stress-related parameters, including ROS, SOD, and MDA, were measured to assess the derivatives’ protective effects against oxidative damage. The results showed that the 10 synthetic derivatives exhibited varying degrees of oxidative stress during treatment. Compared with the model group, the API derivative treatment group significantly reduced ROS and MDA levels and increased SOD activity. Moreover, treatment with the compounds reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and decreased serum IgE levels. Histopathological examination further demonstrated that the compounds alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration and tissue damage in the lungs. Structure-activity analysis indicated that, among the 10 derivatives, the tri-substituted API derivatives exhibited superior antioxidant activity compared to the di-substituted API derivatives. By modifying the chemical structure of API, its antioxidant activity in OVA-induced bronchial asthma was significantly enhanced. 5,7,4′-O-triethyl API and 5,7,4′-O-triacetyl API demonstrated therapeutic effects comparable to those of dexamethasone and show promise as lead compounds for the development of novel asthma treatments. Full article
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21 pages, 7411 KB  
Article
Artemisia annua and A. afra Teas, Artemisinin, and Dihydroartemisinin Differentially Regulate ROS and Fibrosis-Associated Phenotypes in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
by Samuel Isife, Trevor Bush, Isha Medasani, Melissa Towler and Pamela Weathers
Molecules 2026, 31(16), 2745; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31162745 - 7 Aug 2026
Viewed by 451
Abstract
Fibrosis is driven by persistent fibroblast activation, oxidative stress, myofibroblast differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, yet available antifibrotic therapies remain limited. This study evaluated whether artemisinin (ART), dihydroartemisinin (DHA), and traditional tea infusions of Artemisia annua and A. afra differentially regulate fibrosis-associated responses [...] Read more.
Fibrosis is driven by persistent fibroblast activation, oxidative stress, myofibroblast differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, yet available antifibrotic therapies remain limited. This study evaluated whether artemisinin (ART), dihydroartemisinin (DHA), and traditional tea infusions of Artemisia annua and A. afra differentially regulate fibrosis-associated responses in human dermal fibroblasts. Neonatal and adult human dermal fibroblasts were cultured under pre-fibrotic or TGF-β/ascorbic acid-stimulated pro-fibrotic conditions and assessed for intracellular ROS, scratch-wound closure, collagen gel contraction, fibrosis-associated gene expression, and α-SMA protein abundance. Artemisia teas produced greater ROS reduction than purified ART or DHA, with A. afra showing the strongest antioxidant effect despite lacking detectable artemisinin. DHA and A. annua most consistently suppressed scratch closure, while A. afra produced intermediate inhibition and ART was comparable to vehicle control. Collagen gel contraction was most strongly reduced by A. annua, with DHA and A. afra producing intermediate suppression. Under pro-fibrotic conditions, DHA and A. annua downregulated ACTA2, A. annua suppressed COL1A1, and DHA and A. annua increased matrix-remodeling MMP expression. Reduced levels of α-SMA confirmed the antifibrotic effects. These findings indicate that antifibrotic activity differs among artemisinin-related compounds and whole-plant Artemisia preparations, with DHA and A. annua showing the strongest overall activity. Full article
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20 pages, 3933 KB  
Article
Mitochondrial Membrane Damage Is Prevented by an Anthocyanin-Rich Fraction of Callistemon citrinus in 6-OHDA-Exposed SH-SY5Y Cells
by Martina Farina, Giuseppe Tancredi Patanè, Stefano Putaggio, Ester Tellone, Davide Barreca, Alessandro Maugeri and Michele Navarra
Biomolecules 2026, 16(8), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16081144 - 6 Aug 2026
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases represent a significant clinical challenge. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms is essential for developing more effective therapies, and mitochondria appear to play a key role in these processes. Since current treatments are limited to symptom management, natural strategies capable of preserving mitochondrial [...] Read more.
Neurodegenerative diseases represent a significant clinical challenge. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms is essential for developing more effective therapies, and mitochondria appear to play a key role in these processes. Since current treatments are limited to symptom management, natural strategies capable of preserving mitochondrial function could represent a promising preventive and therapeutic approach in neurodegeneration. This study aims at investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective potential of an anthocyanin-rich extract from Callistemon citrinus flower (Cce) in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells exposed to 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Exposure of cells to 6-OHDA inhibited cell viability and caused cell death, events hindered by the pre-treatment with Cce. Furthermore, it restored normal cell cycle distribution, as well as hampered 6-OHDA-induced apoptosis. Given the pro-oxidant effect of 6-OHDA, we observed that Cce reduced reactive oxygen species in stressed SH-SY5Y cells, along with recovering their antioxidant protection system. Focusing on mitochondria, Cce was able to protect their membranes from 6-OHDA, as suggested by the restoration of mitochondrial membrane potential. This led to a reduction in release of cytochrome c and the consequent activation of caspases 9 and 3, characteristic of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, supporting our initial findings. Our results indicate that Cce prevents SH-SY5Y cell death induced by 6-OHDA via the preservation of mitochondrial integrity mainly through to its antioxidant properties, encouraging further studies to support its exploitation in the management of neurodegeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds as Modifiers of Mitochondrial Function)
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48 pages, 3338 KB  
Review
The MASLD–Cardio-Oncology Triangle: Dietary Patterns, Metabolic Remodelling and Implications for Cancer Therapy Tolerance
by Francesca La Rocca, Graziella Privitera, Calogero Geraci, Valentina Morello, Giulio Geraci, Valentina Paternò, Ciro Santoro and Roberta Esposito
Nutrients 2026, 18(15), 2527; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18152527 - 4 Aug 2026
Viewed by 645
Abstract
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is highly prevalent worldwide and represents the hepatic manifestation of a systemic cardiometabolic-inflammatory syndrome rather than an isolated organ disease. In parallel, anticancer therapies carry a well-recognised burden of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT). Evidence suggests [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is highly prevalent worldwide and represents the hepatic manifestation of a systemic cardiometabolic-inflammatory syndrome rather than an isolated organ disease. In parallel, anticancer therapies carry a well-recognised burden of cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT). Evidence suggests that the metabolic-inflammatory cascade driving steatosis → steatohepatitis → fibrosis may also contribute to endothelial dysfunction, myocardial remodelling and cardiomyocyte vulnerability to chemotherapy-induced oxidative stress. This narrative review proposes a unifying conceptual framework in which MASLD may act as a potential amplifier of cardiotoxicity in oncology patients and examines whether lifestyle and dietary interventions could mitigate this cumulative risk. Methods: A structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science was performed, prioritising systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, large cohort studies and recent international guidelines on MASLD, cardio-oncology and nutritional interventions. Results: Four converging molecular axes were identified as plausible links between MASLD and cardiomyocyte susceptibility to anticancer therapy: mitochondrial dysfunction with reactive oxygen species overproduction, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and metaflammation, endothelial nitric oxide impairment, and pro-fibrotic TGF-β/hepatic stellate cell signalling. Mediterranean-style dietary patterns, selected micronutrients and emerging metabolic therapies modulate the same network and may offer translational opportunities. Conclusions: Reframing MASLD as a potentially modifiable amplifier of CTR-CVT supports the integration of hepatic phenotyping into baseline cardio-oncology risk stratification and the use of personalised nutrition as a precision tool acting on shared mitochondrial, inflammatory, endothelial and fibrotic pathways. Multidisciplinary framework and prospective interventional studies, adopting composite hepato-cardio-oncological endpoints, are warranted. Full article
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