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Cell cycle dysregulation is the mainstay of aberrant cell proliferation, which leads to tumor progression. Mutations in tumor cells initiate various dysregulated pathways and spontaneous over-proliferation with genomic/chromosomal... more
Cell cycle dysregulation is the mainstay of aberrant cell proliferation, which leads to tumor progression. Mutations in tumor cells initiate various dysregulated pathways and spontaneous over-proliferation with genomic/chromosomal instability. Despite advances in cancer therapy, it has remained a medicinal challenge to treat. Besides, the complexity of pathophysiological pathways behind cancer raises the need for novel multi-target agents, possessing fewer side effects. Alkaloid-based therapies have been explored so far to target cell division in cancer, including vinca alkaloids. As a class of hopeful β-carboline derivatives, growing evidence has indicated their auspicious roles in combating cancer by inhibiting topoisomerase (TOPO), kinesin Eg5, telomerase, cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK), IκB kinase (IKK), and polo-like kinase-1 (PLK1) in the transition phases of cell cycle. In this review, in vitro potential of β-carboline has been revealed through targeting cell division cycle at different phases. In conclusion, β-carboline alkaloids could be introduced as novel candidates in cancer therapy.
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Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are on the rise in the world. Therefore, it is a critical issue to reveal the precise pathophysiological mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies to deal with such conditions. Passing through different... more
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are on the rise in the world. Therefore, it is a critical issue to reveal the precise pathophysiological mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies to deal with such conditions. Passing through different mechanisms, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a pivotal role in NDDs through various mechanisms, by changing the expression of some genes, interference with protein translation and alterations in some signaling pathways. It urges the need to introduce novel strategies and therapeutic agents with multi-targeting potentials. Phytochemicals are hopeful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents with promising modulatory roles on dysregulated signaling pathways and protein translation during NDDs. In this study, the role of ncRNAs (e.g. lncRNAs, miRNA, siRNAs and piRNAs) was highlighted in NDDs. This study also aimed to investigate the role of phytochemicals (phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids and sulfur compounds) in the modulation of ncRNAs during NDDs such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Edible flowers are attracting special therapeutic attention and their administration is on the rise. Edible flowers play pivotal modulatory roles on oxidative stress and related interconnected apoptotic/inflammatory pathways toward the... more
Edible flowers are attracting special therapeutic attention and their administration is on the rise. Edible flowers play pivotal modulatory roles on oxidative stress and related interconnected apoptotic/inflammatory pathways toward the treatment of cancer. In this review, we highlighted the phytochemical content and therapeutic applications of edible flowers, as well as their modulatory potential on the oxidative stress pathways and apoptotic/inflammatory mediators, resulting in anticancer effects. Edible flowers are promising sources of phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic compounds, carotenoids, terpenoids) with several therapeutic effects. They possess anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-depressant, anxiolytic, anti-obesity, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Edible flowers potentially modulate oxidative stress by targeting erythroid nuclear transcription factor-2/extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Nrf2/ERK/MAPK), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant response elements (AREs). As the interconnected pathways to oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), interleukins (ILs) as well as apoptotic pathways such as Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2, caspase and cytochrome C are critical targets of edible flowers in combating cancer. In this regard, edible flowers could play promising anticancer effects by targeting oxidative stress and downstream dysregulated pathways.
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Anticancer drugs are not purely effective because of their toxicity, side effects, high cost, inaccessibility, and associated resistance. On the other hand, cancer is a complex public health problem that could intelligently adopt... more
Anticancer drugs are not purely effective because of their toxicity, side effects, high cost, inaccessibility, and associated resistance. On the other hand, cancer is a complex public health problem that could intelligently adopt different signaling pathways and alter the body's metabolism to escape from the immune system. One of the cancer strategies to metastasize is modifying pH in the tumor microenvironment, ranging between 6.5 and 6.9. As a powerful determiner, lactate is responsible for this acidosis. It is involved in immune stimulation, including innate and adaptive immunity, apoptotic‐related factors (Bax/Bcl‐2, caspase), and glycolysis pathways (e.g., GLUT‐1, PKM2, PFK, HK2, MCT‐1, and LDH). Lactate metabolism, in turn, is interconnected with several dysregulated signaling mediators, including PI3K/Akt/mTOR, AMPK, NF‐κB, Nrf2, JAK/STAT, and HIF‐1α. Because of lactate's emerging and critical role, targeting lactate production and its transporters is important for preventing and managing tumorigenesis. Hence, exploring and developing novel promising anticancer agents to minimize human cancers is urgent. Based on numerous studies, natural secondary metabolites as multi‐target alternative compounds with health‐promoting properties possess more high effectiveness and low side effects than conventional agents. Besides, the mechanism of multi‐targeted natural sources is related to lactate production and cancer‐associated cross‐talked factors. This review focuses on targeting the lactate metabolism/transporters, and lactate‐associated mediators, including glycolytic pathways. Besides, interconnected mediators to lactate metabolism are also targeted by natural products. Accordingly, plant‐derived secondary metabolites are introduced as alternative therapies in combating cancer through modulating lactate metabolism and glycolytic pathways.
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Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are on the rise in the world. Therefore, it is a critical issue to reveal the precise pathophysiological mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies to deal with such conditions. Passing through different... more
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are on the rise in the world. Therefore, it is a critical issue to reveal the precise pathophysiological mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies to deal with such conditions. Passing through different mechanisms, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a pivotal role in NDDs through various mechanisms, by changing the expression of some genes, interference with protein translation and alterations in some signaling pathways. It urges the need to introduce novel strategies and therapeutic agents with multi-targeting potentials. Phytochemicals are hopeful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents with promising modulatory roles on dysregulated signaling pathways and protein translation during NDDs. In this study, the role of ncRNAs (e.g. lncRNAs, miRNA, siRNAs and piRNAs) was highlighted in NDDs. This study also aimed to investigate the role of phytochemicals (phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids and sulfur compounds) in the modulation of ncRNAs during ...
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Polydatin is a natural potent stilbenoid polyphenol and a resveratrol derivative with improved bioavailability. Polydatin possesses potential biological activities predominantly through the modulation of pivotal signaling pathways... more
Polydatin is a natural potent stilbenoid polyphenol and a resveratrol derivative with improved bioavailability. Polydatin possesses potential biological activities predominantly through the modulation of pivotal signaling pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Various imperative biological activities have been suggested for polydatin towards promising therapeutic effects, including anticancer, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-microbial, as well as health-promoting roles on the renal system, the respiratory system, rheumatoid diseases, the skeletal system, and women’s health. In the present study, the therapeutic targets, biological activities, pharmacological mechanisms, and health benefits of polydatin are reviewed to provide new insights to researchers. The need to develop further clinical trials and novel delivery systems of polydatin is also considered to reveal new insights to researchers.
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Research Interests:
Anticancer drugs are not purely effective because of their toxicity, side effects, high cost, inaccessibility, and associated resistance. On the other hand, cancer is a complex public health problem that could intelligently adopt... more
Anticancer drugs are not purely effective because of their toxicity, side effects, high cost, inaccessibility, and associated resistance. On the other hand, cancer is a complex public health problem that could intelligently adopt different signaling pathways and alter the body's metabolism to escape from the immune system. One of the cancer strategies to metastasize is modifying pH in the tumor microenvironment, ranging between 6.5 and 6.9. As a powerful determiner, lactate is responsible for this acidosis. It is involved in immune stimulation, including innate and adaptive immunity, apoptotic-related factors (Bax/Bcl-2, caspase), and glycolysis pathways (e.g., GLUT-1, PKM2, PFK, HK2, MCT-1, and LDH). Lactate metabolism, in turn, is interconnected with several dysregulated signaling mediators, including PI3K/Akt/mTOR, AMPK, NF-κB, Nrf2, JAK/STAT, and HIF-1α. Because of lactate's emerging and critical role, targeting lactate production and its transporters is important for preventing and managing tumorigenesis. Hence, exploring and developing novel promising anticancer agents to minimize human cancers is urgent. Based on numerous studies, natural secondary metabolites as multi-target alternative compounds with health-promoting properties possess more high effectiveness and low side effects than conventional agents. Besides, the mechanism of multi-targeted natural sources is related to lactate production and cancer-associated cross-talked factors. This review focuses on targeting the lactate metabolism/transporters, and lactate-associated mediators, including glycolytic pathways. Besides, interconnected mediators to lactate metabolism are also targeted by natural products. Accordingly, plant-derived secondary metabolites are introduced as alternative therapies in combating cancer through modulating lactate metabolism and glycolytic pathways.
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: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent childhood psychiatric disorder. In general, a child with ADHD has significant attention problems with difficulty concentrating on a subject, and is generally... more
: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent childhood psychiatric disorder. In general, a child with ADHD has significant attention problems with difficulty concentrating on a subject, and is generally associated with impulsivity and excessive activity. The etiology of ADHD in most patients is unknown, although it is considered to be a multifactorial disease caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Diverse factors such as the existence of mental, nutritional or general health problems during childhood, as well as smoking and alcohol drinking during pregnancy are related to an increased risk of ADHD. Behavioral and psychological characteristics of ADHD include anxiety, mood disorders, behavioral disorders, language disorders, and learning disabilities. These symptoms affect individuals, families, and communities, negatively altering educational and social results, strained parent-child relationships, and increased use of health services. ADHD may be associated with deficits in inhibitory frontostriatal noradrenergic neurons on lower striatal structures that are predominantly driven by dopaminergic neurons. Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are a conserved family of lipid kinases that control a number of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, insulin metabolism, and apoptosis. Since PI3Ks play an important role in the control of the noradrenergic neuron, it opens up new insights in research on ADHD and other developmental brain diseases. This review presents evidence for potential usefulness of PI3K and its modulators as potential treatment for ADHD.
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Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are leading causes of death and morbidity in the elderly worldwide. From the mechanistic/pathological view, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis are responsible for the etiology of neuronal... more
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are leading causes of death and morbidity in the elderly worldwide. From the mechanistic/pathological view, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis are responsible for the etiology of neuronal diseases, and play detrimental roles in neuronal cell death and neurodegenerative processes. The diverse pathophysiological pathways influencing NDDs necessitate the discovery of pivotal dysregulated signaling mediators. The current review describes essential functions of protein kinase B (Akt)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB)/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway as possible therapeutic targets in the pathogenesis of NDDs. Consequently, finding new multi-target agents in regulating Akt/CREB/BDNF and thus associated downstream pathways is a critical factor in combating NDDs. Because of their neuroprotective properties, dietary phytochemicals have shown to be popular nutritional therapy methods. Ginsenosides, the most active ingredient of ginseng, and a secondary metabolite of steroid glycosides and triterpene saponins have been found to have a number of protective effects on the central nervous system (CNS). The protective roles of ginsenosides in CNS are potentially passing through Akt/CREB/BDNF pathway towards neuroprotective responses. In the present study, Akt/CREB/BDNF pathway is targeted by ginsenosides and associated nanoformulations towards potential neuroprotective effects.
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Despite the progression in targeting the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and spinal cord injury (SCI), there is a lack of effective treatments. Moreover, conventional therapies suffer from... more
Despite the progression in targeting the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and spinal cord injury (SCI), there is a lack of effective treatments. Moreover, conventional therapies suffer from associated side effects and low efficacy, raising the need for finding potential alternative therapies. In this regard, a comprehensive review was done regarding revealing the main neurological dysregulated pathways and providing alternative therapeutic agents following SCI. From the mechanistic point, oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways are major upstream orchestras of cross-linked dysregulated pathways (e.g., apoptosis, autophagy, and extrinsic mechanisms) following SCI. It urges the need for developing multitarget therapies against SCI complications. Polyphenols, as plant-derived secondary metabolites, have the potential of being introduced as alternative therapeutic agents to pave the way for treating SCI. Such secondary metabolites presented m...
Materials and Methods Hydroalcoholic extractions of pumpkin fruit peel were obtained and used to prepare two different cold cream-based formulations, namely, 10% and 20% pumpkin peel extracts (PPEs). These formulations, phenytoin cream,... more
Materials and Methods Hydroalcoholic extractions of pumpkin fruit peel were obtained and used to prepare two different cold cream-based formulations, namely, 10% and 20% pumpkin peel extracts (PPEs). These formulations, phenytoin cream, and cold cream were topically used once daily for 14 days to compare their wound-healing effects in a rat model of excision wound repair. Wound sizes were monitored at different intervals. Skin tissue samples were subject to H&E staining for histopathological analysis. Blood samples were also taken on day 14 to measure serum levels of nitrite. Results Both 10% and 20% PPE formulations resulted in a significant reduction of wound sizes compared to positive and negative controls. Wound closure rate was estimated to be higher in 20% PPE-treated rats. According to histopathological analysis, treatment with 20% PPE improved parameters associated with efficient wound repair, including better regeneration of epidemic layer, higher density of dermis collagen...
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In recent decades, several neuroprotective agents have been provided in combating neuronal dysfunctions; however, no effective treatment has been found towards the complete eradication of neurodegenerative diseases. From the... more
In recent decades, several neuroprotective agents have been provided in combating neuronal dysfunctions; however, no effective treatment has been found towards the complete eradication of neurodegenerative diseases. From the pathophysiological point of view, growing studies are indicating a bidirectional relationship between gut and brain termed gut-brain axis in the context of health/disease. Revealing the gut-brain axis has survived new hopes in the prevention, management, and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Accordingly, introducing novel alternative therapies in regulating the gut-brain axis seems to be an emerging concept to pave the road in fighting neurodegenerative diseases. Growing studies have developed marine-derived natural products as hopeful candidates in a simultaneous targeting of gut-brain dysregulated mediators towards neuroprotection. Of marine natural products, carotenoids (e.g., fucoxanthin, and astaxanthin), phytosterols (e.g., fucosterol), polysacchari...
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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that leads to progressive neurological disability due to axonal deterioration. Although MS presents profound heterogeneity in the clinical course, its... more
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that leads to progressive neurological disability due to axonal deterioration. Although MS presents profound heterogeneity in the clinical course, its underlying central mechanism is active demyelination and neurodegeneration associated with inflammation. Multiple autoimmune and neuroinflammatory pathways are involved in the demyelination process of MS. Analysis of MS lesions has shown that inflammatory genes are upregulated. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is part of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family and has important roles in many signaling cascades. GSK-3 is a highly conserved serine/threonine protein kinase expressed in both the central and the peripheral nervous systems. GSK-3 modulates several biological processes through phosphorylation of protein kinases, including cell signaling, neuronal growth, apoptosis and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and interleukins, al...
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1Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences,... more
1Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran 3Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 4Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Background and objectives: Dorema ammoniacum gum resin is used in Iranian traditional medicine for different indications including inflammatory diseases which are on the rise. Considering the important role of inflammation in different... more
Background and objectives: Dorema ammoniacum gum resin is used in Iranian traditional medicine for different indications including inflammatory diseases which are on the rise. Considering the important role of inflammation in different diseases, in the present study, we aimed to investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity and skin toxicity of Dorema ammoniacum gum extract (DAGE) in rats and rabbits. Methods: The systemic anti-inflammatory effect ofDAGE (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg, i.p.) was assessed by carrageenan-induced paw edema method in 30 min, 1, 2, 3 and 4 h after the carrageenan injection to thirty male Wistar rats divided into five groups of six each. Control and standard groups received the vehicle and mefenamic acid (30 mg/kg, i.p.), respectively. To assess the topical anti-inflammatory effect ofthegum, eighteen rats were divided into three groups of six: standard, vehicle, and test groups which received topical diclofenac gel, distilled water and DAGE, respectively. T...
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating neurodegenerative conditions, and is currently on the rise. Several dysregulated pathways are behind the pathogenesis of PD; however, the critical targets remain... more
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating neurodegenerative conditions, and is currently on the rise. Several dysregulated pathways are behind the pathogenesis of PD; however, the critical targets remain unclear. Accordingly, there is an urgent need to reveal the key dysregulated pathways in PD. Prevailing reports have highlighted the importance of mitochondrial and cross-talked mediators in neurological disorders, genetic changes, and related complications of PD. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms of PD, as well as the low efficacy and side effects of conventional neuroprotective therapies, drive the need for finding novel alternative agents. Recently, much attention has been paid to using plant secondary metabolites (e.g., flavonoids/phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and terpenoids) in the modulation of PD-associated manifestations by targeting mitochondria. In this line, plant secondary metabolites have shown promising potential for the simultaneous ...
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Background: Withania somnifera (WS), also known as Ashwagandha, is commonly used in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems. WS has seen growing, worldwide use by the public due to its reputation as an adaptogen. This popularity... more
Background: Withania somnifera (WS), also known as Ashwagandha, is commonly used in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems. WS has seen growing, worldwide use by the public due to its reputation as an adaptogen. This popularity has elicited increased scientific study of its biological effects, including a potential application for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of preclinical and clinical studies examining the neuropsychiatric effects of WS, specifically its application in stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Methods: Reports of human trials and animal studies of WS were collected primarily from the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Results : WS root and leaf extracts exhibited noteworthy anti-stress and anti-anxiety activity in animal and human studies. WS also improved symptoms of depression and insomnia, though fewer studies investigated these applications. WS may alleviat...
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Growing studies are revealing the critical manifestations of influenza, dengue virus (DENV) infection, Zika virus (ZIKV) disease, and Ebola virus disease (EVD) as emerging infectious diseases. However, their corresponding mechanisms of... more
Growing studies are revealing the critical manifestations of influenza, dengue virus (DENV) infection, Zika virus (ZIKV) disease, and Ebola virus disease (EVD) as emerging infectious diseases. However, their corresponding mechanisms of major complications headed for neuronal dysfunction are not entirely understood. From the mechanistic point of view, inflammatory/oxidative mediators are activated during emerging infectious diseases towards less cell migration, neurogenesis impairment, and neuronal death. Accordingly, the virus life cycle and associated enzymes, as well as host receptors, cytokine storm, and multiple signaling mediators, are the leading players of emerging infectious diseases. Consequently, chemokines, interleukins, interferons, carbohydrate molecules, toll-like receptors (TLRs), and tyrosine kinases are leading orchestrates of peripheral and central complications which are in near interconnections. Some of the resulting neuronal manifestations have attracted much at...
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Cancer is a major cause of death, affecting human life in both developed and developing countries. Numerous antitumor agents exist but their toxicity and low efficacy limits their utility. Furthermore, the complex pathophysiological... more
Cancer is a major cause of death, affecting human life in both developed and developing countries. Numerous antitumor agents exist but their toxicity and low efficacy limits their utility. Furthermore, the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of cancer, serious side effects and poor prognosis restrict the administration of available cancer therapies. Thus, developing novel therapeutic agents are required towards a simultaneous targeting of major dysregulated signaling mediators in cancer etiology, while possessing lower side effects. In this line, the plant kingdom is introduced as a rich source of active phytochemicals. The secondary metabolites produced by plants could potentially regulate several dysregulated pathways in cancer. Among the secondary metabolites, flavonoids are hopeful phytochemicals with established biological activities and minimal side effects. Flavonoids inhibit B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) via the p53 signaling pathway, which is a significant apoptotic target in...
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Objective: The presence of synthetic drugs (as adulterant) in slimming herbal products of world markets has contravened the country’s law and has created many troubles for some consumers of slimming products. This study aims to use a... more
Objective: The presence of synthetic drugs (as adulterant) in slimming herbal products of world markets has contravened the country’s law and has created many troubles for some consumers of slimming products. This study aims to use a simple and reliable method for simultaneously finding and validating the presence of possible adulterants in some slimming products, which could not be discriminated due to misleading packaging.Method: Fifteen slimming products were obtained from the Iran pharmaceutical markets. Liquid chromatography-ultraviolet and LC-mass spectrometry methods were performed for simultaneous screening and confirmation of adulterants.Results: The most abundant adulterant was Phenolphthalein, which has been used in 11 cases of the 15 slimming products. Furthermore, 5 products included caffeine, two included phendimetrazine, and two included protriptyline.Conclusion: The performed method was successful in detection of different adulterants. According to the presence of s...
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are one of the leading causes of death and disability in humans. From a mechanistic perspective, the complexity of pathophysiological mechanisms contributes to NDDs. Therefore, there is an urgency to... more
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are one of the leading causes of death and disability in humans. From a mechanistic perspective, the complexity of pathophysiological mechanisms contributes to NDDs. Therefore, there is an urgency to provide novel multi-target agents towards the simultaneous modulation of dysregulated pathways against NDDs. Besides, their lack of effectiveness and associated side effects have contributed to the lack of conventional therapies as suitable therapeutic agents. Prevailing reports have introduced plant secondary metabolites as promising multi-target agents in combating NDDs. Polydatin is a natural phenolic compound, employing potential mechanisms in fighting NDDs. It is considered an auspicious phytochemical in modulating neuroinflammatory/apoptotic/autophagy/oxidative stress signaling mediators such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), NF-E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response elements (ARE), matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), interleukins (ILs), phospho...
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Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in December 2019, millions of people have been infected and died worldwide. However, no drug has been approved for the treatment of this disease and its complications, which urges... more
Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in December 2019, millions of people have been infected and died worldwide. However, no drug has been approved for the treatment of this disease and its complications, which urges the need for finding novel therapeutic agents to combat. Among the complications due to COVID-19, lung injury has attained special attention. Besides, phytochemicals have shown prominent anti-inflammatory effects and thus possess significant effects in reducing lung injury caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Also, the prevailing evidence reveales the antiviral effects of those phytochemicals, including anti-SARS-CoV activity, which could pave the road in providing suitable lead compounds in the treatment of COVID-19. In the present study, candidate phytochemicals and related mechanisms of action have been shown in the treatment/protection of lung injuries induced by various methods. In terms of pharmacological mec...
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The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has made a wide range of manifestations. In this regard, growing evidence is focusing on COVID-19 neurological associations;... more
The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has made a wide range of manifestations. In this regard, growing evidence is focusing on COVID-19 neurological associations; however, there is a lack of established pathophysiological mechanisms and related treatments. Accordingly, a comprehensive review was conducted, using electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane, along with the author’s expertize in COVID-19 associated neuronal signaling pathways. Besides, potential phytochemicals have been provided against neurological signs of COVID-19. Considering a high homology among SARS-CoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and SARS-CoV-2, revealing their precise pathophysiological mechanisms seems to pave the road for the treatment of COVID-19 neural manifestations. There is a complex pathophysiological mechanism behind central manifestations of COVID-19, including pain, hypo/anosmia, delirium, i...
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As progressive, chronic, incurable and common reasons for disability and death, neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are significant threats to human health. Besides, the increasing prevalence of neuronal gradual degeneration and death... more
As progressive, chronic, incurable and common reasons for disability and death, neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are significant threats to human health. Besides, the increasing prevalence of neuronal gradual degeneration and death during NDDs has made them a global concern. Since yet, no effective treatment has been developed to combat multiple dysregulated pathways/mediators and related complications in NDDs. Therefore, there is an urgent need to create influential and multi-target factors to combat neuronal damages. Accordingly, the plant kingdom has drawn a bright future. Among natural entities, flavonoids are considered a rich source of drug discovery and development with potential biological and medicinal activities. Growing studies have reported multiple dysregulated pathways in NDDs, which among those mediator AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) play critical roles. In this line, critical role of flavonoids in the upregulation of AMPK/PGC-1α pathway seems to pave the road in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), aging, central nervous system (brain/spinal cord) damages, stroke, and other NDDs. In the present study, the regulatory role of flavonoids in managing various NDDs has been shown to pass through AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway.
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Pain is one of the most common medical challenges, reducing life quality. Despite the progression in pain management, it has remained a clinical challenge, which raises the need for investigating novel antinociceptive drugs with... more
Pain is one of the most common medical challenges, reducing life quality. Despite the progression in pain management, it has remained a clinical challenge, which raises the need for investigating novel antinociceptive drugs with correspondence signaling pathways. Besides, the precise antinociceptive mechanisms of melatonin are not revealed. Accordingly, owing to the critical role of l-arginine/nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic GMP (cGMP)/KATP in the antinociceptive responses of various analgesics, the role of this signaling pathway is evaluated in the antinociceptive effects of melatonin. Male NMRI mice were intraperitoneally pretreated with the injection of l-arginine (NO precursor, 100 mg/kg), N(gamma)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester [l-NAME, NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor, 30 mg/kg], S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP, NO donor, 1 mg/kg), sildenafil (phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 0.5 mg/kg), and glibenclamide (KATP channel blocker, 10 mg/kg) alone and before the administration of the most effective dose of melatonin amongst the intraperitoneal doses of 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg. The formalin test (2%, 25 µL, intra-plantarly) was done following the melatonin administration, then the nociceptive responses of mice were evaluated during the early phase for 5 min and the late phase for 15 min. The results showed that 100 mg/kg dose of melatonin carried out the most antinociceptive effects. While the antinociceptive effect of melatonin was increased by l-arginine, SNAP, and sildenafil, it was significantly reduced by l-NAME and glibenclamide in both phases of the formalin test, with no relation to the sedative effects of melatonin evaluated by the inclined plane test. In conclusion, the antinociceptive effect of melatonin is mediated through the l-arginine/NO/cGMP/KATP pathway.
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Since its inception, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has infected millions of people around the world. Therefore, it is necessary to find effective treatments against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2... more
Since its inception, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has infected millions of people around the world. Therefore, it is necessary to find effective treatments against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), as it is the viral source of COVID-19. Alkaloids are one of the most widespread plant-derived natural compounds with prominent antiviral effects. Accordingly, these phytochemicals have been promising candidates towards discovering effective treatments for COVID-19. Alkaloids have shown potential anti-SARS-CoV activities via inhibiting pathogenesis-associated targets of the Coronaviridae family that are required for the virus life cycle. In the current study, the chemistry, plant sources, and antiviral effects of alkaloids, as well as their anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect with related mechanisms, are reviewed towards discovering an effective treatment against COVID-19.
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Multiple dysregulated signaling pathways are implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer. The conventional therapies used in cancer prevention/treatment suffer from low efficacy, considerable toxicity, and high cost. Hence, the discovery and... more
Multiple dysregulated signaling pathways are implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer. The conventional therapies used in cancer prevention/treatment suffer from low efficacy, considerable toxicity, and high cost. Hence, the discovery and development of novel multi-targeted agents to attenuate the dysregulated signaling in cancer is of great importance. In recent decades, phytochemicals from dietary and medicinal plants have been successfully introduced as alternative anticancer agents due to their ability to modulate numerous oncogenic and oncosuppressive signaling pathways. Rutin (also known as rutoside, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and sophorin) is an active plant-derived flavonoid that is widely distributed in various vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants, including asparagus, buckwheat, apricots, apples, cherries, grapes, grapefruit, plums, oranges, and tea. Rutin has been shown to target various inflammatory, apoptotic, autophagic, and angiogenic signaling mediators, including ...
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Due to the complicated pathogenic pathways of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), related medicinal therapies have remained a clinical challenge. COVID-19 highlights the urgent need to develop mechanistic pathogenic pathways and... more
Due to the complicated pathogenic pathways of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), related medicinal therapies have remained a clinical challenge. COVID-19 highlights the urgent need to develop mechanistic pathogenic pathways and effective agents for preventing/treating future epidemics. As a result, the destructive pathways of COVID-19 are in the line with clinical symptoms induced by severe acute coronary syndrome (SARS), including lung failure and pneumonia. Accordingly, revealing the exact signaling pathways, including inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy, as well as relative representative mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Bax/caspases, and Beclin/LC3, respectively, will pave the road for combating COVID-19. Prevailing host factors and multiple steps of SARS-CoV-2 attachment/entry, replication, and assembly/release would be hopeful strategies against COVID-19. This is a comprehensive review...
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Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neuronal/cognitional dysfunction, leading to disability and death. Despite advances in revealing the pathophysiological mechanisms behind AD, no effective treatment has yet been provided. It urges... more
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neuronal/cognitional dysfunction, leading to disability and death. Despite advances in revealing the pathophysiological mechanisms behind AD, no effective treatment has yet been provided. It urges the need for finding novel multi-target agents in combating the complex dysregulated mechanisms in AD. Amongst the dysregulated pathophysiological pathways in AD, oxidative stress seems to play a critical role in the pathogenesis progression of AD, with a dominant role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1)/antioxidant responsive elements (ARE) pathway. In the present study, a comprehensive review was conducted using the existing electronic databases, including PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus, as well as related articles in the field. Nrf2/Keap1/ARE has shown to be the upstream orchestrate of oxidative pathways, which also ameliorates various inflammatory and apoptotic pathways....
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Background: As a major cause of morbidity and mortality, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are globally increasing. In spite of recent development in the management of cardiovascular complications, CVDs have remained a medical challenge.... more
Background: As a major cause of morbidity and mortality, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are globally increasing. In spite of recent development in the management of cardiovascular complications, CVDs have remained a medical challenge. Numerous conventional drugs are used to play cardioprotective roles; however, they are associated with several side effects. Considering the rich phytochemistry and fewer side effects of herbal medicines, they have gained particular attention to develop novel herbal drugs with cardioprotective potentials. Amongst natural entities, ginger is an extensively used and well-known functional food and condiment, possessing plentiful bioactivities, like antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties in several disorders management. Objective: The current review deliberated phytochemical properties as well as the ginger/ginger constituents' biological activities and health benefits in several diseases, with particular attention to cardiovascula...
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The complex pathophysiological mechanisms behind destructive chronic conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic failure urge the need for finding pivotal dysregulated... more
The complex pathophysiological mechanisms behind destructive chronic conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic failure urge the need for finding pivotal dysregulated signaling mediators, as well as multi-target therapeutic agents. In the current study, critical roles of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, as potential therapeutic targets in the pathogenesis of various diseases has been described. This pathway is also interconnected with several downstream inflammatory, oxidative stress, and apoptotic mediators, as dysregulated pathways in chronic diseases. Therefore, identifying novel multi-target agents to attenuate PI3K/Akt, thereby related downstream pathways, is of great importance. Astaxanthin (AST) is a multi-target lipid-soluble keto-carotenoid derived from the varieties of marine organisms, with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties through PI3K/Akt pathway. Nowadays, due to its high nutritional and medicinal value, research on AST is increasing. This review aimed to address PI3K/Akt targeting by AST in several diseases toward clinical applications.
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Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI), often characterized by sensory-motor dysfunction, is a major debilitating disorder of the central nervous system. As no useful treatment for post- SCI complications has been approved thus far, finding... more
Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI), often characterized by sensory-motor dysfunction, is a major debilitating disorder of the central nervous system. As no useful treatment for post- SCI complications has been approved thus far, finding novel treatments is of great importance. Objective: Considering the promising effects of melatonin (MEL) against destructive mechanisms in other models of brain damage, in the current study, we evaluated its ameliorative effects on sensory- motor outcomes, inflammatory mediators, histological changes and other post-SCI complications. Methods: Rats in SCI and MEL groups underwent laminectomy followed by a severe compression injury by an aneurysm clip. Then, intrathecal treatment with vehicle (5% dimethyl sulfoxide) or MEL was carried out post-injury. Acetone drop, von Frey, inclined plane, and BBB tests as well as weight changes and auricle temperature, were used to evaluate the neuropathic pain, motor function, and other post-SCI complications. The...
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Isofraxidin (7-hydroxy-6, 8-dimethoxy coumarin) (IF) is a hydroxy coumarin with several biological and pharmacological activities. The plant kingdom is of the most prominent sources of IF, which, among them, Eleutherococcus and Fraxinus... more
Isofraxidin (7-hydroxy-6, 8-dimethoxy coumarin) (IF) is a hydroxy coumarin with several biological and pharmacological activities. The plant kingdom is of the most prominent sources of IF, which, among them, Eleutherococcus and Fraxinus are the well-known genera in which IF could be isolated/extracted from their species. Considering the complex pathophysiological mechanisms behind some diseases (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and heart diseases), introducing IF as a potent multi-target agent, which possesses several herbal sources and the multiple methods for isolation/purification/synthesis, along with the unique pharmacokinetic profile and low levels of side effects, could be of great importance. Accordingly, a comprehensive review was done without time limitations until February 2020. IF extraction methods include microwave, mechanochemical, and ultrasound, along with other conventional methods in the presence of semi-polar solvents such as ethyl acetate (EtOAc). In ad...
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Several signaling pathways and basic metabolites are responsible for the control of metabolism in both normal and cancer cells. As emerging hallmarks of cancer metabolism, the abnormal activities of these pathways are of the most... more
Several signaling pathways and basic metabolites are responsible for the control of metabolism in both normal and cancer cells. As emerging hallmarks of cancer metabolism, the abnormal activities of these pathways are of the most noticeable events in cancer. This altered metabolism expedites the survival and proliferation of cancer cells, which have attracted a substantial amount of interest in cancer metabolism. Nowadays, targeting metabolism and cross-linked signaling pathways in cancer has been a hot topic to investigate novel drugs against cancer. Despite the efficiency of conventional drugs in cancer therapy, their associated toxicity, resistance, and high-cost cause limitations in their application. Besides, considering the numerous signaling pathways cross-linked with cancer metabolism, discovery, and development of multi-targeted and safe natural compounds is a high priority. Natural secondary metabolites have exhibited promising anticancer effects by targeting dysregulated signaling pathways linked to cancer metabolism. The present review reveals the metabolism and cross-linked dysregulated signaling pathways in cancer. The promising therapeutic targets in cancer, as well as the critical role of natural secondary metabolites for significant anticancer enhancements, have also been highlighted to find novel/potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment.
Angiogenesis, the process of formation and recruitment of new blood vessels from pre-existing vessels, plays an important role in the development of cancer. Therefore, the use of antiangiogenic agents is one of the most critical... more
Angiogenesis, the process of formation and recruitment of new blood vessels from pre-existing vessels, plays an important role in the development of cancer. Therefore, the use of antiangiogenic agents is one of the most critical strategies for the treatment of cancer. In addition, the complexity of cancer pathogenicity raises the need for multi-targeting agents. Coumarins are multi-targeting natural agents belonging to the class of benzopyrones. Coumarins have several biological and pharmacological effects, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anticoagulant, anxiolytic, analgesic, and anticancer properties. Several reports have shown that the anticancer effect of coumarins and their derivatives are mediated through targeting angiogenesis by modulating the functions of vascular endothelial growth factor as well as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, which are involved in cancer pathogenesis. In the present review, we focus on the antiangiogenic effects ...
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Abstract As a complicated process of forming new blood vessels from the present vasculature endothelium, angiogenesis plays a critical role in the progression of cancer, through developing new blood vessels in tumor cells. Angiogenesis is... more
Abstract As a complicated process of forming new blood vessels from the present vasculature endothelium, angiogenesis plays a critical role in the progression of cancer, through developing new blood vessels in tumor cells. Angiogenesis is regulated by proteins known as inhibitor or activator molecules, affected by different medicinal herbs and small molecules. In the present review, the molecular mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis are outlined, focusing on the pharmacological aspects and molecular mechanisms of natural compounds used in chemotherapy and their effects on angiogenesis, focusing on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Our findings show that a significant number of drugs used in the treatment of cancer are antiangiogenic small molecules and phytochemicals which inhibit VEGF and angiogenesis. Besides, medicinal herbs are potential multi-target agents with more covering mechanisms, lower costs and lower toxicity to develop novel anticancer drugs through targeting the VEGF signaling pathway and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in the angiogenesis. For this reason, herbal anti-VEGF agents are considered as imperative targets to be used for cancer treatment in clinical applications. The findings reveal a promising perspective for medicinal herbs and natural compounds acting on VEGF and angiogenesis to find new targets and potential therapeutic use in the treatment of cancer.
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Abstract The future fertility of cancer patients after treatment is a serious concern amongst young cancer patients. Such chemotherapeutic agents as Methotrexate (MTX), a folic acid antagonist can cause long-term or permanent gonadal... more
Abstract The future fertility of cancer patients after treatment is a serious concern amongst young cancer patients. Such chemotherapeutic agents as Methotrexate (MTX), a folic acid antagonist can cause long-term or permanent gonadal toxicity in male patients. Oxidative stress is a contributing mechanism to MTX-induced testicular damage. In the past decade, several studies have investigated the use of natural antioxidant agents to prevent the side effects of MTX. Astaxanthin (AST), a red-orange xanthophyll carotenoid, owns various clinical benefits and pharmacological effects including antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Since there has been no study so far in the literature on the effects of AST on MTX-induced testicular dysfunction, the present study evaluated the ameliorating effect of AST against MTX-induced testicular dysfunction. Biometric and semen parameters as well as, biochemical markers of oxidative stress were measured. Compared to the control group, MTX-treated group showed a significant decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, morphology, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and a significant increase in MDA levels. Pretreatment with AST for six consecutive days before MTX administration prevented these oxidative parameters. Thus, the current results suggest that MTX seems to impair the male fertility through oxidative damage in one hand, and AST pretreatment might improve the male fertility by preventing oxidative stress-induced fertility disorders, on the other hand. However, AST pretreatment might also protect germ cells against MTX-induced oxidative stress.
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Diabetic neuropathy (DNP) is a widespread and debilitating complication with complex pathophysiology that is caused by neuronal dysfunction in diabetic patients. Conventional therapeutics for DNP are quite challenging due to their serious... more
Diabetic neuropathy (DNP) is a widespread and debilitating complication with complex pathophysiology that is caused by neuronal dysfunction in diabetic patients. Conventional therapeutics for DNP are quite challenging due to their serious adverse effects. Hence, there is a need to investigate novel effective and safe options. The novelty of the present study was to provide available therapeutic approaches, emerging molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways and future directions of DNP as well as polyphenols’ effect, which accordingly, give new insights for paving the way for novel treatments in DNP. A comprehensive review was done in electronic databases including Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, national database (Irandoc and SID), and related articles regarding metabolic pathways on the pathogenesis of DNP as well as the polyphenols’ effect. The keywords “diabetic neuropathy” and “diabetes mellitus” in the title/abstract and “polyphenol” in the whole text were used. Data were collected from inception until May 2019. DNP complications is mostly related to a poor glycemic control and metabolic imbalances mainly inflammation and oxidative stress. Several signaling and molecular pathways play key roles in the pathogenesis and progression of DNP. Among natural entities, polyphenols are suggested as multi-target alternatives affecting most of these pathogenesis mechanisms in DNP. The findings revealed novel pathogenicity signaling pathways of DNP and affirmed the auspicious role of polyphenols to tackle these destructive pathways in order to prevent, manage, and treat various diseases. Graphical Abstract . .
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As the leading causes of human disability and mortality, neurological diseases affect millions of people worldwide and are on the rise. Although the general roles of several signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative... more
As the leading causes of human disability and mortality, neurological diseases affect millions of people worldwide and are on the rise. Although the general roles of several signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders have so far been identified, the exact pathophysiology of neuronal disorders and their effective treatments have not yet been precisely elucidated. This requires multi-target treatments, which should simultaneously attenuate neuronal inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. In this regard, astaxanthin (AST) has gained growing interest as a multi-target pharmacological agent against neurological disorders including Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), brain and spinal cord injuries, neuropathic pain (NP), aging, depression, and autism. The present review highlights the neuroprotective effects of AST mainly based on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and anti-apoptotic properties that underlies its pharmacological mechani...
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Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a glucose, fat, and protein metabolism disorder. Testicular toxicity and reproductive dysfunction are consequences of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Oxidative stress has been suggested as one of... more
Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a glucose, fat, and protein metabolism disorder. Testicular toxicity and reproductive dysfunction are consequences of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Oxidative stress has been suggested as one of the main mechanism involved in STZ-induced toxicity. Since many studies revealed that Silymarin (SMN), a plant extract, has anti-diabetic and antioxidant activity, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of this natural agent on testicular function and male reproductive parameters in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Sperm parameters, in vivo reproductive performance, and oxidative stress markers were measured. In addition, relative expression of apoptotic-related genes and testosterone level were evaluated. STZ-induced diabetes altered sperm parameters, reduced reproductive performances, increased lipid peroxidation (LPO), and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities. Our results showed that SMN intake improved sperm parameters, reproductive performances, decreased LPO, and increased antioxidant enzyme activities. The relative mRNA expression of Bcl-2 was significantly reduced, and that of Bax, Caspase-3 was significantly increased in the diabetic rats compared to the control group. SMN significantly increased the expression of Bcl-2 and decreased the expression of Bax, Caspase-3. Serum levels of testosterone showed a significant decreased in diabetic rats, compared to the control group and serum testosterone levels revealed a significant increase in groups that received SMN. The protective potential of SMN against oxidative stress in STZ-induced testicular toxicity and its potential to improve fertility in diabetic rats makes it a potential candidate to reverse the toxic effect of diabetes on the testis by herbal antioxidants.
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Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition in which inflammatory responses in the secondary phase of injury leads to long lasting sensory-motor dysfunction. The medicinal therapy of SCI complications is still a clinical... more
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition in which inflammatory responses in the secondary phase of injury leads to long lasting sensory-motor dysfunction. The medicinal therapy of SCI complications is still a clinical challenge. Understanding the molecular pathways underlying the progress of damage will help to find new therapeutic candidates. Astaxanthin (AST) is a ketocarotenoid which has shown anti-inflammatory effects in models of traumatic brain injury. In the present study, we examined its potential in the elimination of SCI damage through glutamatergic-phospo p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-p38MAPK) signaling pathway. Inflammatory response, histopathological changes and sensory-motor function were also investigated in a severe compression model of SCI in male rats. The results of acetone drop and inclined plane tests indicated the promising role of AST in improving sensory and motor function of SCI rats. AST decreased the expression of n-methyl-d-aspartate receptor subunit 2B (NR2B) and p-p38MAPK as inflammatory signaling mediators as well as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) as an inflammatory cytokine, following compression SCI. The histopathological study culminated in preserved white mater and motor neurons beyond the injury level in rostral and caudal parts. The results show the potential of AST to inhibit glutamate-initiated signaling pathway and inflammatory reactions in the secondary phase of SCI, and suggest it as a promising candidate to enhance functional recovery after SCI.
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ABSTRACT Astaxanthin (AST) is a potent lipid‐soluble keto‐carotenoid with auspicious effects on human health. It protects organisms against a wide range of diseases with excellent safety and tolerability. Various imperative biological... more
ABSTRACT Astaxanthin (AST) is a potent lipid‐soluble keto‐carotenoid with auspicious effects on human health. It protects organisms against a wide range of diseases with excellent safety and tolerability. Various imperative biological activities in vitro and in vivo models have been suggested for AST. This review article is focused on the therapeutic potentials, biological activities and benefical health effects of AST. The pharmacological mechanisms of action of AST in the treatment and prevention of the peripheral and central nervous system diseases was also reviewed to provide new insights to researchers. Finally, we suggested a novel hypothesis for the mechanism of action of AST in neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury.
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Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of curcumin on functional disturbances, oxidative stress, and leukocyte infiltration induced by renal... more
Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of curcumin on functional disturbances, oxidative stress, and leukocyte infiltration induced by renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Animals were randomly divided into 9 groups. The groups with 24-h reperfusion consisted of sham-24h, I/R-24h, and three I/R groups treated with curcumin at 10, 20, or 30 mg kg(-1), i.p. after the ischemic period. The 72-h reperfusion groups also included Sham-72h, I/R-72h, I/R treated with curcumin at single dose of 20 mg kg(-1), i.p., and I/R group which received three doses of curcumin at 20 mg kg(-1), i.p., consecutively. Renal functional injury was assessed by measuring serum creatinine and urea-nitrogen concentrations. Oxidative stress was evaluated by assessment tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) levels. Moreover, renal tissue leukocyte infiltration was measured by histopatholo...
In published high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) methods for analysis of topiramate (TPM) in pharmaceutical dosage forms and raw materials Refractive Index Detector (RID) has been used which is not available in many... more
In published high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) methods for analysis of topiramate (TPM) in pharmaceutical dosage forms and raw materials Refractive Index Detector (RID) has been used which is not available in many laboratories and has low sensitivity. We described a new, sensitive and simple HPLC method for determination of topiramate in pharmaceutical forms and In-virto dissolution studies which avoids the use of RID detector. The method is based on derivatization of topiramate and an internal standard by reaction with 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan (NBD-CL), and reverse-phase chromatography using phenyl column and spectrophotometer detection at 264 nm. A mixture of phosphate buffer (0.05 M) containing triethylamine (0.1٪ V/V; pH=2.3) and methanol (28:72, V/V) at a flow rate of 2.2 ml/min was used as mobile phase. The analysis performance was studied and the method was shown to be selective and linear for determination of topiramate in pharmaceutical forms and dissolution studies.
Topiramate is an antiepileptic agent, which is structurally different from the other anticonvulsants. The drug has no UV-Vis absorption or emits fluorescence. Thus for its analysis using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with... more
Topiramate is an antiepileptic agent, which is structurally different from the other anticonvulsants. The drug has no UV-Vis absorption or emits fluorescence. Thus for its analysis using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with conventional UV or fluorescence detectors, the drug should be derivatized with a suitable reagent. In previous study using fluorenylmethyl chloroformate (FMOC-Cl) and HPLC coupled with fluorescence detector, we reported an analytical method for derivatization and analysis of the drug in human serum. In this method, several factors including time and temperature of the reaction, pH and concentration of the used buffer, ratio of organic phase in the medium and removal of the reagent excess by glycine should be optimized to obtain maximum yield of the product. In HPLC coupled with fluorescence detector, there is not any signal from intact topiramate and only the final product (FMOC-topiramate) is appeared. Thus to optimize the reaction conditions for obtaining the highest derived yield, intensity of the final product peak is considered as a criteria for progression of the reaction. In LC-MS/MS system however, both free and reacted topiramate are visible in observed spectra. In the present study reaction of the drug with FMOC-Cl was re-optimized using LC-MS/MS technique on the basis of reacted/free topiramate ratio as the new and more accurate index. The results showed that, ratio of organic/aqueous phase has a dominant effect on the reaction, the most efficient temperature is 70°C and the reaction is reversed following addition of the glycine.
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Research Interests: Nucleus Accumbens, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Glutamate, Brain, Female, and 15 moreAnimals, Male, Morphine, High Performance Liquid Chromatography, European, Microdialysis, Hormone, Pain Measurement, Glutamic Acid, Drug Tolerance, Ovariectomy, Gonadal Hormones, orchiectomy, Pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences, and Male rat
Sex differences are observed in the development of tolerance to the antinociceptive effect of opioid drugs such as morphine, but the precise underlying mechanism remains unclear. There are evidences about the interaction between gonadal... more
Sex differences are observed in the development of tolerance to the antinociceptive effect of opioid drugs such as morphine, but the precise underlying mechanism remains unclear. There are evidences about the interaction between gonadal hormones and neuromodulatory ...
Research Interests: Nucleus Accumbens, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Glutamate, Brain, Female, and 15 moreAnimals, Male, Morphine, High Performance Liquid Chromatography, European, Microdialysis, Hormone, Pain Measurement, Glutamic Acid, Drug Tolerance, Ovariectomy, Gonadal Hormones, orchiectomy, Pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences, and Male rat
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes continuous neurological deficits and major sensory‐motor impairments. There is no effective treatment to enhance sensory‐motor function following SCI. Thus, it is crucial to develop novel therapeutics for... more
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes continuous neurological deficits and major sensory‐motor impairments. There is no effective treatment to enhance sensory‐motor function following SCI. Thus, it is crucial to develop novel therapeutics for this particular patient population. Astaxanthin (AST) is a strong antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic agent. In the present study, it was tested in a severe compression SCI model with emphasis on sensory‐motor outcomes, signalling pathway, along with other complications.