Search

Graphical abstract, Several plants have traditionally been used since antiquity to treat various gastroenteritis and respiratory symptoms similar to COVID-19 outcomes. The common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever or chills, cold, cough, flu, headache, diarrhoea, tiredness/fatigue, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, asthma, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, etc. This study aims to find out the plants and plant-derived products which are being used by the COVID-19 infected patients in Bangladesh and how those plants are being used for the management of COVID-19 symptoms. In this study, online and partially in-person survey interviews were carried out among Bangladeshi respondents. We selected Bangladeshi COVID-19 patients who were detected Coronavirus positive (+) by RT-PCR nucleic acid test and later recovered. Furthermore, identified plant species from the surveys were thoroughly investigated for safety and efficacy based on the previous ethnomedicinal usage reports. Based on the published data, they were also reviewed for their significant potentialities as antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory agents. We explored comprehensive information about a total of 26 plant species, belonging to 23 genera and 17 different botanical families, used in COVID-19 treatment as home remedies by the respondents. Most of the plants and plant-derived products were collected directly from the local marketplace. According to our survey results, greatly top 5 cited plant species measured as per the highest RFC value are Camellia sinensis (1.0) > Allium sativum (0.984) > Azadirachta indica (0.966) > Zingiber officinale (0.966) > Syzygium aromaticum (0.943). Previously published ethnomedicinal usage reports, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activity of the concerned plant species also support our results. Thus, the survey and review analysis simultaneously reveals that these reported plants and plant-derived products might be promising candidates for the treatment of COVID-19. Moreover, this study clarifies the reported plants for their safety during COVID-19 management and thereby supporting them to include in any future pre-clinical and clinical investigation for developing herbal COVID-19 therapeutics.

Cells have different sets of molecules for performing an array of physiological functions. Nucleic acids have stored and carried the information throughout evolution, whereas proteins have been attributed to performing most of the cellular functions. To perform these functions, proteins need to have a unique conformation and a definite lifespan. These attributes are achieved by a highly coordinated protein quality control (PQC) system comprising chaperones to fold the proteins in a proper three-dimensional structure, ubiquitin-proteasome system for selective degradation of proteins, and autophagy for bulk clearance of cell debris. Many kinds of stresses and perturbations may lead to the weakening of these protective cellular machinery, leading to the unfolding and aggregation of cellular proteins and the occurrence of numerous pathological conditions. However, modulating the expression and functional efficiency of molecular chaperones, E3 ubiquitin ligases, and autophagic proteins may diminish cellular proteotoxic load and mitigate various pathological effects. Natural medicine and small molecule-based therapies have been well-documented for their effectiveness in modulating these pathways and reestablishing the lost proteostasis inside the cells to combat disease conditions. The present article summarizes various similar reports and highlights the importance of the molecules obtained from natural sources in disease therapeutics., Graphical abstract Extra-/intracellular stresses challenge cellular health throughout life. Small natural molecules modulate the functioning of protein quality control components to maintain proteins' native structures and preserve cells’ proteome under healthy and stressful conditions.Image 1

Neointimal hyperplasia after vascular injury is a representative complication of restenosis. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced unfolded protein response (UPR) is involved in the pathogenesis of vascular intimal hyperplasia. PARP16, a member of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases family, is correlated with the nuclear envelope and the ER. Here, we found that PERK and IRE1α are ADP-ribosylated by PARP16, and this might promote proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) during the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB stimulating. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with deep sequencing (ChIP-seq) analysis, PARP16 was identified as a novel target gene for histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methyltransferase SMYD3, and SMYD3 could bind to the promoter of Parp16 and increased H3K4me3 level to activate its host gene's transcription, which causes UPR activation and SMC proliferation. Moreover, knockdown either of PARP16 or SMYD3 impeded the ER stress and SMC proliferation. On the contrary, overexpression of PARP16 induced ER stress and SMC proliferation and migration. In vivo depletion of PARP16 attenuated injury-induced neointimal hyperplasia by mediating UPR activation and neointimal SMC proliferation. This study identified SMYD3–PARP16 is a novel signal axis in regulating UPR and neointimal hyperplasia, and targeting this axis has implications in preventing neointimal hyperplasia related diseases., Graphical abstract This study identified SMYD3–PARP16 is a novel signal axis in regulating UPR and neointimal hyperplasia, and targeting this axis has implications in preventing neointimal hyperplasia related diseases.Image 1

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma) is a transcriptional coactivator that binds to a diverse range of transcription factors. PPAR gamma coactivator 1 (PGC-1) coactivators possess an extensive range of biological effects in different tissues, and play a key part in the regulation of the oxidative metabolism, consequently modulating the production of reactive oxygen species, autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Owing to these findings, a large body of studies, aiming to establish the role of PGC-1 in the neuromuscular system, has shown that PGC-1 could be a promising target for therapies targeting neuromuscular diseases. Among these, some evidence has shown that various signaling pathways linked to PGC-1 alpha are deregulated in muscular dystrophy, leading to a reduced capacity for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In the light of these results, any intervention aimed at activating PGC-1 could contribute towards ameliorating the progression of muscular dystrophies. PGC-1 alpha is influenced by different patho-physiological/pharmacological stimuli. Natural products have been reported to display modulatory effects on PPAR gamma activation with fewer side effects in comparison to synthetic drugs. Taken together, this review summarizes the current knowledge on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, focusing on the potential effects of natural compounds, acting as regulators of PGC-1 alpha., This work was supported by the crowd funding #Sport4Therapy to Giuseppe D'Antona (Italy). A. Sureda was supported by Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Grant Number: CIBEROBN CB12/03/30038.

Malignant mesothelioma diseases feature an increasing risk due to their severe forms and their association with asbestos exposure. Platinum(II) complexes such as cisplatin and carboplatin are clinically approved for the therapy of mesothelioma often in combination with antimetabolites such as pemetrexed or gemcitabine. It was observed that pathogenic properties of mesothelioma cells and the response of mesothelioma tumors towards platinum-based drugs are strongly influenced by non-coding RNAs, in particular, by small microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). These non-coding RNAs controlled drug sensitivity and the development of tumor resistance towards platinum drugs. An overview of the interactions between platinum drugs and non-coding RNAs is given and the influence of non-coding RNAs on platinum drug efficacy in mesothelioma is discussed. Suitable non-coding RNA-modulating agents with potentially beneficial effects on cisplatin treatment of mesothelioma diseases are mentioned. The understanding of mesothelioma diseases concerning the interactions of non-coding RNAs and platinum drugs will optimize existing therapy schemes and pave the way to new treatment options in future. Keywords: MicroRNA, Long non-coding RNA, Mesothelioma, Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Anticancer drugs

Gemcitabine and pemetrexed are clinically approved antimetabolites for the therapy of mesothelioma diseases. These drugs are often applied in combination with platinum complexes and other drugs. The activity of antimetabolites depended on the expression levels of certain non-coding RNAs, in particular, of small microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). The development of tumor resistance towards antimetabolites was regulated by non-coding RNAs. An overview of the interplay between gemcitabine/pemetrexed antimetabolites and non-coding RNAs in mesothelioma is provided. Further to this, various non-coding RNA-modulating agents are discussed which displayed positive effects on gemcitabine or pemetrexed treatment of mesothelioma diseases. A detailed knowledge of the connections of non-coding RNAs with antimetabolites will be constructive for the design of improved therapies in future. Keywords: MicroRNA, Long non-coding RNA, Mesothelioma, Gemcitabine, Pemetrexed, Anticancer drugs

Background & Aims Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR3 regulate hepatic immunity under pathological conditions, but their functions and potential drug targets in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) remain poorly understood. Methods ALD-associated liver injury were induced in TLR2 knockout (TLR2–/–), TLR3–/–, TLR2–/– bone marrow transplanted (BMT), TLR3–/– BMT, IL-10–/– mice, and their wild-type littermates through ethanol challenge with or without co-administered epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Moreover, Kupffer cells were depleted by GdCl3 injection to evaluate their pathogenic roles in ALD. Results We identified that deficiency of TLR2 and TLR3 significantly alleviated and aggravated ALD-induced liver injury, respectively. Mechanistically, Kupffer cell inactivation, M1 to M2 polarization, and IL-10 production via STAT3 activation contributed to hepatic protection mediated by concurrent TLR2 inhibition and TLR3 agonism. These findings were further confirmed in TLR2 and TLR3 BMT mice. We also identified a novel ALD-protective agent EGCG which directly interacted with Kupffer cell TLR2/3 to induce IL-10 production. Deficiency of IL-10 aggravated ALD injury and blunted EGCG-mediated hepatoprotection while depletion of Kupffer cells partially recovered liver injury but abolished EGCG’s actions. Conclusions Altogether, our results illustrate the divergent roles of Kupffer cells TLR2/3 in ALD progression via anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 production., Graphical abstract

Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is one of the major components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and participates in the physiological functions of the cardiovascular system and lungs. Recent studies identified ACE2 as the receptor for the S-protein of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and thus acts as the gateway for viral entry into the human body. Virus infection causes an imbalance in the RAS axis and induces acute lungs injury and fibrosis. Various factors regulate ACE2 expression patterns as well as control its epigenetic status at both transcription and translational levels. This review is mainly focused on the impact of environmental toxicants, drugs, endocrine disruptors, and hypoxia as controlling parameters for ACE2 expression and its possible modulation by epigenetic changes which are marked by DNA methylation, histone modifications, and micro-RNAs (miRNAs) profile. Furthermore, we have emphasized on interventions of various phytochemicals and bioactive compounds as epidrugs that regulate ACE2-S-protein interaction and thereby curb viral infection. Since ACE2 is an important component of the RAAS axis and a crucial entry point of SARS-CoV-2, the dynamics of ACE2 expression in response to various extrinsic and intrinsic factors are of contemporary relevance. We have collated updated information on ACE2 expression modulated by epidrugs, and urge to take over further studies on these important physiological regulators to unravel many more systemic linkages related to both metabolic and infectious diseases, in general and SARS-CoV-2 in particular for further development of targeted interventions.

Selenium participates in the antioxidant defense mainly through a class of selenoproteins, including thioredoxin reductase. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active catechin in green tea. Depending upon the dose and biological systems, EGCG may function either as an antioxidant or as an inducer of antioxidant defense via its pro-oxidant action or other unidentified mechanisms. By manipulating the selenium status, the present study investigated the interactions of EGCG with antioxidant defense systems including the thioredoxin system comprising of thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase, the glutathione system comprising of glutathione and glutathione reductase coupled with glutaredoxin, and the Nrf2 system. In selenium-optimal mice, EGCG increased hepatic activities of thioredoxin reductase, glutathione reductase and glutaredoxin. These effects of EGCG appeared to be not due to overt pro-oxidant action because melatonin, a powerful antioxidant, did not influence the increase. However, in selenium-deficient mice, with low basal levels of thioredoxin reductase 1, the same dose of EGCG did not elevate the above-mentioned enzymes; intriguingly EGCG in turn activated hepatic Nrf2 response, leading to increased heme oxygenase 1 and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 protein levels and thioredoxin activity. Overall, the present work reveals that EGCG is a robust inducer of the Nrf2 system only in selenium-deficient conditions. Under normal physiological conditions, in selenium-optimal mice, thioredoxin and glutathione systems serve as the first line defense systems against the stress induced by high doses of EGCG, sparing the activation of the Nrf2 system., Highlights • EGCG increases hepatic activities of TrxR, GR and Grx in selenium-optimal mice. • EGCG fails to manipulate the above-mentioned enzymes in selenium-deficient mice. • EGCG in turn activates hepatic Nrf2 response in selenium-deficient mice. • Selenium deficiency does not increase EGCG toxicity due to potent Nrf2 response., Graphical abstract fx1

Graphical abstract, At the moment, little treatment options are available for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The absence of the dystrophin protein leads to a complex cascade of pathogenic events in myofibres, including chronic inflammation and oxidative stress as well as altered metabolism. The attention towards dietary supplements in DMD is rapidly increasing, with the aim to counteract pathology-related alteration in nutrient intake, the consequences of catabolic distress or to enhance the immunological response of patients as nowadays for the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. By definition, supplements do not exert therapeutic actions, although a great confusion may arise in daily life by the improper distinction between supplements and therapeutic compounds. For most supplements, little research has been done and little evidence is available concerning their effects in DMD as well as their preventing actions against infections. Often these are not prescribed by clinicians and patients/caregivers do not discuss the use with their clinical team. Then, little is known about the real extent of supplement use in DMD patients. It is mistakenly assumed that, since compounds are of natural origin, if a supplement is not effective, it will also do no harm. However, supplements can have serious side effects and also have harmful interactions, in terms of reducing efficacy or leading to toxicity, with other therapies. It is therefore pivotal to shed light on this unclear scenario for the sake of patients. This review discusses the supplements mostly used by DMD patients, focusing on their potential toxicity, due to a variety of mechanisms including pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic interactions and contaminations, as well as on reports of adverse events. This overview underlines the need for caution in uncontrolled use of dietary supplements in fragile populations such as DMD patients. A culture of appropriate use has to be implemented between clinicians and patients’ groups.

Amyloid fibrils are best known as a product of human and animal protein misfolding disorders, where amyloid formation is associated with cytotoxicity and disease. It is now evident that for some proteins, the amyloid state constitutes the native structure and serves a functional role. These functional amyloids are proving widespread in bacteria and fungi, fulfilling diverse functions as structural components in biofilms or spore coats, as toxins and surface-active fibers, as epigenetic material, peptide reservoirs or adhesins mediating binding to and internalization into host cells. In this review, we will focus on the role of functional amyloids in bacterial pathogenesis. The role of functional amyloids as virulence factor is diverse but mostly indirect. Nevertheless, functional amyloid pathways deserve consideration for the acute and long-term effects of the infectious disease process and may form valid antimicrobial targets., Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image, Highlights • Functional amyloids are widespread in bacteria, pathogenic and non-pathogenic. • Bacterial biofilms most commonly function as structural support in the extracellular matrix of biofilms or spore coats, and in cell–cell and cell-surface adherence. • The amyloid state can be the sole structured and functional state, or can be facultative, as a secondary state to folded monomeric subunits. • Bacterial amyloids can enhance virulence by increasing persistence, cell adherence and invasion, intracellular survival, and pathogen spread by increased environmental survival. • Bacterial amyloids may indirectly inflict disease by triggering inflammation, contact phase activation and possibly induce or aggravate human pathological aggregation disorders.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic, debilitating and often lethal lung disorder. Despite the molecular mechanisms of PF are gradually clear with numerous researchers’ efforts, few effective drugs have been developed to reverse human PF or even halt the chronic progression to respiratory failure. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the main component of the medical practice used for more than 5000 years especially in China, often exerts wider action spectrum than previously attempted options in treating human diseases. Recent data have shown the anti-fibrotic benefits of the active ingredients from TCM in this field, which may represent an attractive source of the drug discovery against PF. Aim of the review This review summarizes the pre-clinical and clinical evidence on the benefits of TCM and their active ingredients, and provides a comprehensive information and reliable basis for the exploration of new treatment strategies of botanical drugs in the therapy of PF. Methods The literature information was obtained from the scientific databases on ethnobotany and ethno medicines (up to Aug 2016), mainly from the Pubmed, Web of Science and CNKI databases, and was to identify the experimental studies on the anti-fibrotic role of the active agents from TCM and the involved mechanisms. The search keywords for such work included: “lung fibrosis” or “pulmonary fibrosis”, and “traditional Chinese medicine”, “extract” or “herb”. Results A number of studies have shown that the active agents of single herbs and TCM formulas, particularly the flavonoids, glycosides and alkaloids, exhibit potential benefits against PF, the mechanisms of which appear to involve the regulation of inflammation, oxidant stress, and pro-fibrotic signaling pathways, etc. Besides, the processing methods for discovering TCM in treating PF were prospectively discussed. Conclusion These research work have shown the therapeutic benefits of TCM in the treatment of PF. However, more continued researches should be undertaken to clarify the unconfirmed chemical composition and regulatory mechanisms, conduct standard clinical trials, and evaluate the possible side effects. The insights provided in present review will be needed for further exploration of botanical drugs in the development of PF therapy., Graphical abstract fx1

We investigated the effect of 7 Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)-causing mutations in troponin T (TnT) on troponin function in thin filaments reconstituted with actin and human cardiac tropomyosin. We used the quantitative in vitro motility assay to study Ca2+-regulation of unloaded movement and its modulation by troponin I phosphorylation. Troponin from a patient with the K280N TnT mutation showed no difference in Ca2+-sensitivity when compared with donor heart troponin and the Ca2+-sensitivity was also independent of the troponin I phosphorylation level (uncoupled). The recombinant K280N TnT mutation increased Ca2+-sensitivity 1.7-fold and was also uncoupled. The R92Q TnT mutation in troponin from transgenic mouse increased Ca2+-sensitivity and was also completely uncoupled. Five TnT mutations (Δ14, Δ28 + 7, ΔE160, S179F and K273E) studied in recombinant troponin increased Ca2+-sensitivity and were all fully uncoupled. Thus, for HCM-causing mutations in TnT, Ca2+-sensitisation together with uncoupling in vitro is the usual response and both factors may contribute to the HCM phenotype. We also found that Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) can restore coupling to all uncoupled HCM-causing TnT mutations. In fact the combination of Ca2+-desensitisation and re-coupling due to EGCG completely reverses both the abnormalities found in troponin with a TnT HCM mutation suggesting it may have therapeutic potential., Highlights • 7 HCM-causing mutations in cardiac TnT were studied using in vitro motility assay. • All the mutations increased myofilament Ca2+-sensitivity (range 1.5–2.7 fold). • All mutations suppressed the modulation of Ca2+-sensitivity by TnI phosphorylation. • Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) restored this modulation to all mutations. • This suggests a therapeutic potential for EGCG in the treatment of HCM.