Sahar Khateeb

Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer. However, side effects on normal tissues remain a major clinical concern. The ovary is highly radiosensitive, and ionizing radiation (IR) can impair ovarian function and fertility by inducing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and multiple forms of cell death, ultimately leading to follicular depletion. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation and has recently emerged as a potential contributor to IR-induced ovarian injury. IR can induce ferroptosis by disrupting iron homeostasis, impairing the System Xc⁻–GSH–GPX4 antioxidant defense pathway, and promoting lipid peroxidation. Recent preclinical studies have shown ferroptosis-related alterations in irradiated ovarian tissue and granulosa cells. In parallel, IR activates the well-established TAp63–PUMA/NOXA apoptotic pathway in oocytes, highlighting the involvement of multiple cell death mechanisms in ovarian injury. Nevertheless, targeting ferroptosis may help reduce granulosa cell injury and mitigate certain aspects of ovarian damage. This review evaluates current evidence for ferroptosis as one of the cell death mechanisms contributing to IR-induced ovarian injury, with particular emphasis on its molecular mechanisms, interactions with other cell death pathways, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Potential therapeutic strategies include the preservation of GPX4-dependent antioxidant defenses, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, regulation of iron homeostasis, and modulation of polyunsaturated fatty acid-related lipid metabolism. Nevertheless, direct evidence remains limited, and further research is needed to clarify the contribution of ferroptosis to IR-induced ovarian injury and evaluate whether targeting this pathway can mitigate ovarian damage without compromising tumor radiosensitivity.

Ethanol (EtOH)-induced gastric ulcer (GU) is a common model used to investigate mechanisms of mucosal injury and repair. Omeprazole (OMP) is a conventional anti-ulcer drug that effectively suppresses gastric acid secretion, but its efficacy may be enhanced by combining it with bioactive phytochemicals derived from a Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (licorice; LIQ) extract that possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of OMP, LIQ extract, and their combined treatment against EtOH-induced GU in rats, focusing on modulation of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling and PI3K/AKT/mTOR gene expression. The ethanolic extract of LIQ was chemically characterized by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS, and molecular docking was performed to evaluate the potential binding interactions of its major constituents with H⁺/K⁺-ATPase and COX-2. Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into control, ulcer (ULC), OMP-treated, LIQ-treated, and combined treatment groups. GU was induced by absolute EtOH. Subsequently, gastric pH, stomach coefficient, oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, and PI3K, AKT, and mTOR gene expression were assessed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of mucosal architecture and the expression of TNF-α, caspase-3, and PCNA were performed. Coadministration of OMP and LIQ demonstrated the greatest gastroprotective activity, marked by a significant increase in gastric pH, restoration of antioxidant status, and substantial reduction in ROS, TLR4, NF-κB, and NLRP3 levels. The combined therapy significantly upregulated the expression of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR genes in comparison to ULC. Histopathological and immunohistochemical findings further demonstrated preservation of gastric mucosal integrity, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and decreased TNF-α, caspase-3, and PCNA immunoreactivity, indicating attenuation of mucosal injury. In conclusion, LIQ extract enhanced the gastroprotective effect of OMP against EtOH-induced GU, supporting its potential as an adjunct to OMP. Further studies are warranted to confirm the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Colon cancer (CC) is a common malignancy characterized by poor prognostic outcomes and considerable mortality. Oxaliplatin (OXP) is commonly used in the treatment of CC; however, its efficacy may be limited by side effects and the development of resistance. β-sitosterol (β-Sit), a phytosterol derived from plants, has been documented to be effective in the treatment of tumors. This study aimed to investigate the potential of β-Sit to enhance the antitumor efficacy of OXP in COLO-205 cells, focusing on apoptosis induction and suppression of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)/survival pathway. Molecular docking studies were performed to assess the binding affinity of β-Sit with the target proteins B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). COLO-205 cells were treated with OXP, β-Sit, or a combination of OXP + β-Sit for 48 h. The combination treatment substantially lowered the IC₅₀ achieved with 3.24 µM of OXP and 36.01 µM of β-Sit, compared to 25.64 µM for OXP alone and 275.9 µM for β-Sit alone, demonstrating a pronounced synergistic impact. The combined therapy altered the cell cycle distribution by decreasing the number of cells in the G0/G, S, and G2/M phases, coupled with an increase in the Sub-G1 population. Furthermore, apoptosis was augmented by a shift in cell death from necrosis to late apoptosis, as indicated by an increased BAX/BCL2 ratio relative to each treatment alone. Moreover, the inhibitory effect on angiogenesis was enhanced via the reduction of VEGF-A, and β-catenin and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB-p65) were suppressed, thereby preventing the growth and survival of resistant cancer cells. Additionally, molecular docking supported high binding affinities of β-Sit to Bcl-2, PI3K, and VEGFR-2. This study highlights the potential of β-Sit to enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of OXP in CC.

Gastric ulcer (GU) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that impacts quality of life. Currently, several drugs are available for GU treatment, including proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (OMP); however, their use is limited by numerous potential adverse effects. Glycyrrhizic acid (GLY), a natural anti-inflammatory agent, exhibits promising gastroprotective properties; however, its use is likewise limited by numerous potential adverse effects. This study aimed to synthesize GLY nanoparticles (GLY-NPs) to enhance their therapeutic potential and to comparatively evaluate their efficacy against OMP in an ethanol-induced GU in male Wistar rats. GLY-NPs were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and characterized using TEM, XRD, FTIR, and zeta potential analyses. In vivo, GLY-NPs significantly attenuated gastric mucosal damage compared to OMP, as evidenced by macroscopic and histopathological analyses. Biochemical assays revealed that GLY-NPs markedly improved antioxidant defenses by elevating SOD, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities while reducing MDA levels, surpassing the effects of OMP. Furthermore, GLY-NPs modulated inflammatory responses by downregulating p38 MAPK, NF-κB, and TNF-α expression, concomitant with upregulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Mechanistic insights indicated that GLY-NPs favorably regulated key signaling pathways implicated in gastric mucosal protection, including suppression of the JAK2/STAT3 and TGF-β1/Smad3 pathways, alongside activation of the SIRT1/FOXO1/PGC-1α axis. In conclusion, these findings indicate that GLY-NPs offer higher gastroprotective effects relative to traditional OMP therapy through comprehensive modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and molecular signaling pathways. This study highlights GLY-NPs as a potent nanotherapeutic candidate for the effective management of GU.

Gastric ulcer is a concerning condition that affects numerous individuals globally. Omeprazole (OMP), a well-known drug for treating stomach ulcers, has been associated with several adverse effects and limited solubility. The study aimed to create an omeprazole nanosuspension (OMP-NS) with improved solubility and bioavailability. Additionally, the study investigated the potential therapeutic effects of OMP-NS on ethanol-induced gastric injury in rats, comparing it to traditional OMP therapy to identify novel therapeutic alternatives. The characterization of the OMP-NS was assessed using DLS, TEM, XRD, FTIR, UV spectrophotometric analysis, in vitro release studies, and entrapment efficiency (EE) assays. A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats (weighing 150–200 g, aged 8–10 weeks) were randomly divided into four groups (six rats/group). Gastric injury was induced using absolute ethanol (5 mL/kg), followed by oral administration of either OMP or OMP-NS (20 mg/kg) for 7 days. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA accompanied by the Bonferroni post hoc test or the Kruskal–Wallis test, based on data distribution, with significance set at p < 0.05. The OMP-NS demonstrated a Z-average diameter of 216.1 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.2, and a zeta potential of −19.6 mV. The particles were predominantly spherical with an average size of 67.28 nm. In vitro release studies showed 97.78% release at 8 h, with an EE% of 96.97%. Ethanol-induced gastric ulcers were associated with oxidative stress, characterized by elevated levels of NADPH, ROS, MDA, and NO, while the level of SOD was reduced. It was accompanied by increased inflammatory markers HMGB1, which subsequently increased TLR-2, MyD88, NF-κBp56, NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels; conversely, a significant decrease in Nrf2/PPAR-γ/SIRT1 levels was observed. In contrast, OMP-NS administration significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, restored SOD activity, and upregulated protective pathways Nrf2/PPAR-γ/SIRT1 more effectively than conventional OMP therapy. In conclusion, OMP-NS represents a promising therapeutic strategy with notable anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcerogenic effects in ethanol-induced gastric ulcers.

Background: Radiation exposure can cause inflammation, which etoricoxib (ET), an anti‐inflammatory drug, could potentially mitigate.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the potential effectiveness of etoricoxib‐loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (ET‐NLCs) in mitigating radiation‐induced acute lung inflammation in rats.Methods: Thirty‐six rats were divided into six groups. Group 1 (C): control; group 2 (ET): normal rats given ET (10 mg/kg) orally for 14 days; group 3 (ET‐NLC): normal rats administered ET‐NLCs orally (10 mg/kg) for 14 days. Group 4 (R): rats exposed to 6 Gy whole‐body gamma radiation, untreated thereafter to induce lung inflammation and injury. Group 5 (ET‐R), irradiated rats, were administered ET (10 mg/kg) orally daily for 14 days. Group 6 (ET‐NLC‐R), irradiated rats, were administered ET‐NLCs (10 mg/kg) orally daily for 14 days. Molecular, biochemical, and histopathological analyses were performed to assess inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and lung tissue architecture.Results: Radiation exposure led to a 1053% increase in Bax expression and an 81.5% decrease in Bcl‐2, indicating heightened apoptosis. ET‐NLCs treatment reversed these effects, reducing Bax by 59.9% and increasing Bcl‐2 by 337.4%. Additionally, ET‐NLCs reduced caspase‐3 and caspase‐8 activation by 54.5% and 62.9%, respectively, compared to radiation exposure alone. Furthermore, ET‐NLCs demonstrated potent anti‐inflammatory effects by reducing interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels by 49% and 39%, respectively, compared to the irradiated group. Radiation increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels by 388%, indicating oxidative damage, and suppressed antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). ET‐NLC treatment decreased MDA levels and increased CAT, GPX, and SOD by 35.7%, 4766.7%, and 765.9%, respectively, restoring antioxidant balance. Radiation reduced surfactant protein (SP‐D) levels to 4.9% of control values, but ET‐NLCs treatment restored them to 14%. Histopathological analysis revealed that radiation‐exposed lungs showed thickened inter‐alveolar septa, emphysematous areas, and inflammatory infiltration. ET‐NLCs treatment exhibited only mild thickening and limited inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting significant improvement in lung architecture.Conclusions: Based on these results, NLCs are one of the most promising ways to deliver anti‐inflammatory drugs for treating lung damage caused by radiation.

Radiotherapy is a critical treatment for cancer but poses significant risks to ovarian tissue, particularly in young females, leading to premature ovarian failure (POF). This study examines the therapeutic potential of etoricoxib nanostructured lipid carriers (ETO-NLC) in mitigating radiation-induced ovarian damage in female Wistar rats. Twenty-four female rats were randomly assigned to four groups: a control group receiving normal saline, a group exposed to a single dose of whole-body gamma radiation (6 Gy), a group treated with etoricoxib (10 mg/kg) post-radiation, and a group treated with ETO-NLC for 14 days following radiation. Histopathological evaluations and oxidative stress biomarker assessments were conducted, including ELISAs for reactive oxygen species (ROS), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α), and signaling molecules (PI3K, AKT, P38MAPK, AMH). Serum levels of estrogen, FSH, and LH were measured, and gene expression analysis for TGF-β and Nrf2 was performed using qRT-PCR. The findings indicate that ETO-NLC has the potential to ameliorate the harmful effects of ovarian damage induced by γ-radiation. These therapeutic effects were achieved through the modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, augmentation of antioxidant defenses (including Nrf2 activation), support for cell survival pathways (via PI3K/Akt signaling), regulation of MAPK, mitigation of fibrosis (TGF-β), and preservation of ovarian reserve (as evidenced by AMH, FSH/LH, and estrogen levels). ETO-NLC shows promise as an effective strategy for attenuating radiation-induced ovarian damage, highlighting the need for further research to enhance therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving ovarian function during cancer treatment.

The primary objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the anti-inflammatory activity between Etoricoxib (ETO) and Matcha green tea (MG) in the context of acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by ionizing gamma radiation (IR) in female rats. Furthermore, the potential impact of whole body IR exposure on the intestinal system and serum estradiol levels was investigated. Additionally, it was acknowledged that the ETO and MG treatments might have exerted favorable effects on the intestinal and hormonal responses. Six groups of rats were assigned to different treatments: control, ETO, MG, irradiation (IRR), ETO + IRR, and MG + IRR. The evaluation included measuring the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of ETO and MG, as well as assessing their antioxidant activity, radical scavenging capacity, reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity. Kidney function was assessed through serum creatinine and urea levels. Oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase, glutathione, malondialdehyde, and catalase, were measured to evaluate the antioxidant effects of ETO and MG. The anti-inflammatory potential of the treatments was evaluated by measuring STAT-3 and interleukins (IL-6, IL-23, and IL-17) using an ELISA assay. Prostaglandin E2 receptor (PGE-2) mRNA expression, histopathological examination, and immunohistochemistry for NF-κB inhibitors were performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms in kidney tissue homogenates. Histopathological changes and DNA fragmentation in the intestinal tissues were determined, and the characterization of Matcha green tea was performed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). This allowed for the identification and quantification of various compounds present in Matcha green tea. Furthermore, the study assessed the effect of IR and treatments on estrogen levels in female rats. Data showed that both ETO and MG had the potential to mitigate the adverse effects of AKI induced by IR. Notably, MG exhibited greater efficacy in attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation associated with renal injury. These findings revealed and compared the effects of ETO and MG in alleviating AKI caused by IR. MG demonstrated greater anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent. These results contribute to the growing evidence supporting the use of MG in managing IR-induced renal complications. Future studies should focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms and optimizing the application of MG in clinical settings.

The biogenic synthesis of nanoparticles has drawn significant attention. The spleen is the largest lymphatic organ that is adversely impacted during irradiation. The current study was designated to evaluate the possible anti‐inflammatory effect of matcha‐silver nanoparticles (M‐AgNPs) to reduce inflammation associated with γ‐radiation induced‐oxidative stress and inflammation in rats' spleen. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by biogenic synthesis using a green sonochemical method from matcha (M) green tea. The obtained M‐AgNPs were extensively characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Using zetasizer analysis, the surface charge, particle size, and radical scavenging DPPH assay of M‐AgNPs were also examined. Biocompatibility and cytotoxicity were analyzed by MTT assay, and the IC₅₀ was calculated. Four groups of 24 Wistar rats each had an equal number of animals. The next step involved measuring the levels of oxidative stress markers in the rat splenic tissue. Additionally, the amounts of inflammatory protein expression were evaluated using the ELISA analysis. The results indicated the formation of spherical nanoparticles of pure Ag° coated with matcha polyphenols at the nanoscale, as well as uniform monodisperse particles suited for cellular absorption. Results revealed that M‐AgNPs improved all biochemical parameters. Furthermore, M‐AgNPs relieve inflammation by reducing the expression of NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and enhancing the levels of ileSnt information regulator 1 (SIRT1). Histopathological examinations demonstrated the ability of M‐AgNPs to overcome the damage consequent to irradiation and recover the spleen's cellular structure. These results confirmed that matcha is a potential biomaterial for synthesizing AgNPs, which can be exploited for their anti‐inflammatory activity.