nadia Alrawaiq | Sebha University (original) (raw)

Papers by nadia Alrawaiq

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Selected Dietary Chemicals on Nrf2 Nuclear Translocation in the Mouse Liver

Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Kea... more Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. However, the difference in Nrf2 activation potency of these chemicals is not well studied. This study is aimed at determining the difference in the potency of liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by the administration of equal doses of selected dietary chemicals in mice. Male ICR white mice were administered 50 mg/kg of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol for 14 days. On day 15, the animals were sacrificed, and their livers were isolated. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared, and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the implication of the Nrf2 nuclear translocation on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, liver RNA was extracted for qPCR assay. Equal doses of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol significantly induced the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 with different intensities and subsequently increased the expression of Nrf2-regulated genes with an almost similar pattern as the Nrf2 nuclear translocation intensities (sulforaphane > butylated hydroxyanisole = indole-3carbinol > curcumin > quercetin). In conclusion, sulforaphane is the most potent dietary chemical that induces the Nrf2 translocation into the nuclear fraction in the mouse liver.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Selected Dietary Chemicals on Nrf2 Nuclear Translocation in the Mouse Liver

Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity

Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Kea... more Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. However, the difference in Nrf2 activation potency of these chemicals is not well studied. This study is aimed at determining the difference in the potency of liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by the administration of equal doses of selected dietary chemicals in mice. Male ICR white mice were administered 50 mg/kg of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol for 14 days. On day 15, the animals were sacrificed, and their livers were isolated. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared, and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the implication of the Nrf2 nuclear translocation on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, liver RNA was extracted for qPCR assay. Equal doses of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol significantly induced the n...

Research paper thumbnail of Liver heme oxygenase-1 expression is positively induced by palm oil-derived tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) supplementation in mice

The antioxidant activities of tocotrienols are more robust than that of tocopherols. Palm oil is ... more The antioxidant activities of tocotrienols are more robust than that of tocopherols. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that has antioxidant, antiinflammatory and cytoprotective functions. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of different doses of TRF oral supplementation on HO-1 gene and protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25-30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n = 6 per group), a positive control group was administered 100 mg/kg butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days (n = 6), and a control group (n = 6) was only administered the vehicle (corn oil). At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. Total RNA was extracted from the livers and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were performed to analyse HO-1 gene expression. The liv...

Research paper thumbnail of D9: The Effect of Palm Oil-Derived Tocotrienol Rich Fraction on Heme Oxygenase-1 Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess pote... more Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess potent antioxidant activity. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective functions. Methods: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of increasing doses of palm oilderived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on HO-1 protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25-30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered palm TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n=6 for each group), a positive control group administered butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days at a dose of 100 mg/kg (n=6), and the last group (n=6), which comprise control mice, were only administered vehicle which is corn oil. At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. The livers were then homogenized and protein expression of HO-1 was determined by Western blotting. Results: Palm TRF oral supplementation at concentrations of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg for 14 days caused a significant concentration-dependent increase in HO-1 protein expression in mice livers, compared to controls. Conclusion: Palm TRF oral supplementation for 14 days resulted in increased HO-1 protein expression in mice liver dose dependently, with the highest protein expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg TRF, followed by 500 and 200 mg/kg respectively.

Research paper thumbnail of An evaluation of sulforaphane as a potential agent for disease prevention

Research journal of pharmaceutical, biological and chemical sciences, 2014

This research examines sulforaphane (SFN), a phytochemical element that is found in certain plant... more This research examines sulforaphane (SFN), a phytochemical element that is found in certain plants and vegetables. SFN has particular biological behaviours and roles to combat many diseases. It can be found mainly in vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli. SFN is a nutritional isothiocyanate compound and is known as a glucosinolate precursor. It is reputed to have valuable pharmacological properties, namely antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties, and also functions as an agent of defence against diabetes, ocular disorders and cardiovascular diseases as well as for neurodegenerative disease. It also efficiently searches out and feeds on ROS (reactive oxygen species). Sulforaphane is a potential antioxidant for relieving oxidative stress and reducing tissue/cell damage in various in vivo and in vitro experimental models. The results of this research confirm that the natural compound, SFN, has several protective properties and that the nu...

Research paper thumbnail of Food consumption and body weight in mice treated with palm oil–derived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF)

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of equal doses of sulforaphane, curcumin and quercetin on Heme Oxygenase-1 gene and protein expression in mice liver

Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of A review of antioxidant polyphenol curcumin and its role in detoxification

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2014

Curcumin (diferuloymethane), a yellow colouring agent present in the rhizome of Curcuma longa Lin... more Curcumin (diferuloymethane), a yellow colouring agent present in the rhizome of Curcuma longa Linn (Zingiberaceae), has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities. Despite such significant anti-tumor efficacies and bio-safety profiles of curcumin, its poor systemic bioavailability originating from sub-optimal absorption, rapid metabolism and fast systemic elimination, is turning out to be one of the major impeding factors retarding its clinical success. Curcumin exerts its chemoprotective and chemopreventive effects via multiple mechanisms. It has been reported to induce expression of the antioxidant enzymes in various cell lines. Curcumin significantly increased expression of Nrf2 as well as phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes. The redox-sensitive transcription factor, nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45 (NF-E2)-related factor (Nrf2) plays a key role in regulating induction of phase II detoxifying or antioxidant enzymes. Thus, activa...

Research paper thumbnail of A review of flavonoid quercetin: Metabolism, Bioactivity and antioxidant properties

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2014

Flavonoids belong to a category of polyphenolic com p unds that are produced exclusively in plant... more Flavonoids belong to a category of polyphenolic com p unds that are produced exclusively in plants. These compounds are able to bring about various bio logical and pharmacological activities in animal ce l s. It is generally believed that most mammals need to consum e polyphenols from plants due to their antioxidant properties in order to stay healthy. The antioxidan ts are essential for protecting the cells from unde rgoing chemical damage due to oxidation. Many compounds ar e known to have both antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties. The pro-oxidant properties can either b e favourable or detrimental to biological systems a nd can affect the progress of chronic diseases in human be ings. Quercetin, the most plentiful flavonoid, acts as both an antioxidant and a pro-oxidant. Currently, there is no reliable method for maintaining a balance betwee n th se two activities in the whole organism. Therefore, th is review focuses on Metabolism, bioactivity and both the antioxidant and pro-...

Research paper thumbnail of Dietary Phytochemicals Activate the Redox-Sensitive Transcription Factor NRF2

International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014

Nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a crucial role in regul... more Nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a crucial role in regulating phase-2 detoxifying/antioxidant gene induction. Under physiological conditions, NRF2 is mainly located in the cytoplasm. However, in response to oxidative stress, NRF2 translocates to the nucleus and binds to specific DNA sites, termed “antioxidant response elements” or “electrophile response elements,” to initiate the transcription of numerous cytoprotective genes. Many structurally diverse antioxidants derived from various sources of dietary phytochemicals have been found to activate this particular redox-sensitive transcription factor, thereby potentiating the cellular detoxification action of Nrf2.This review focuses on known phytochemical inducers and the mechanism by which they regulate antioxidant responsive element (ARE)/Nrf2-dependent detoxification genes.

Research paper thumbnail of Overview of the role of B2-adrenergic receptor variants in human hypertension

Essential hypertension isa complex traitto whichmultifactorial origin arising from an interaction... more Essential hypertension isa complex traitto whichmultifactorial origin arising from an interaction between genetic and environmental factorscontribute interactively. Consequently, the identification of genes related to hypertension is complicated by the heterogeneity of its causes and the possibility that various genes with moderate impacts, probably acting in a same manner, affect blood pressure and the occurrence of hypertension. Multiple studies have suggested that variation within the β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) is implicated in blood pressure regulation and the development of hypertension. The evidence for ADRB2 gene association with hypertension is not conclusive. There are conflicting reports on the association of these polymorphisms with hypertension. Several reports have suggested the association of the ADRB2 variants with the prevalence of hypertension and systolic blood pressure (BP)whilst others refuted the association. The role of these findings is reviewed here, and ...

Research paper thumbnail of Palm Oil Tocotrienols in Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment

Elaeis guineensis, 2022

Cancer remains a worrying cause of fatality worldwide despite the advancement in medicine. Among ... more Cancer remains a worrying cause of fatality worldwide despite the advancement in medicine. Among the dietary phytonutrients, tocotrienols have been extensively studied for their bioactivity against cancer. Palm oil is a rich source of tocotrienols. The most common formulation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction of palm oil (TRF). The anticancer activities of tocotrienols were once presumed due to their antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. However, recent evidence suggested that tocotrienols are capable of demonstrating cancer-fighting properties through their influence in various signalling pathways. The selectivity of tocotrienols in killing cancer cells without affecting normal cells is indicative of their potential role in cancer treatment and prevention. Tocotrienols had proven to be particularly effective in the chemoprevention and treatment of breast, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate and liver cancers in many in vitro and in vivo animal experiments....

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Palm Oil-Derived Tocotrienol Rich Fraction on Heme Oxygenase-1 Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess pote... more Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess potent antioxidant activity. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective functions. Method: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of increasing doses of palm oil-derived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on HO-1 protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25–30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered palm TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n=6 for each group), a positive control group administered butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days at a dose of 100 mg/kg (n=6), and the last group (n=6), which comprise control mice, were only administered vehicle which is corn oil. At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. The livers were then homogenized ...

Research paper thumbnail of Tocotrienols activate Nrf2 nuclear translocation and increase the antioxidant-related hepatoprotective mechanism in mice liver

Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Background: The most common preparation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF). T... more Background: The most common preparation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF). This study aimed to investigate whether TRF induced liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation and influenced the expression of Nrf2-regulated genes. Methods: In the Nrf2 induction study, mice were divided into control, 2000 mg/kg TRF and diethyl maleate treated groups. After acute treatment, mice were sacrificed at specific time points. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the effect of increasing doses of TRF on the extent of liver nuclear Nrf2 translocation and its implication on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, mice were divided into 5 groups (control, 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg TRF, and butylated hydroxyanisole-treated groups). After 14 days, mice were sacrificed and liver RNA extracted for qPCR assay. Results: 2000 mg/kg TRF administration initiated Nrf2 nuclear translocation within 30 min, r...

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Different Classes of Phytochemicals on Heme OXYGENASE-1 Gene and Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research

Objective: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is enzyme that possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and c... more Objective: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is enzyme that possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective functions. Induction of HO-1 occurs as an adaptive and beneficial response to various injurious stimuli such as oxidative stress. This study is aimed at monitoring the effects of administration of equal doses (50 mg/kg) of sulforaphane (SFN), curcumin, quercetin, indole-3-carbinol, and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) for 14 days on the levels of liver HO-1 gene and protein expression in mice. Method: A total of 48 adult male ICR white mice (25–30 g) were divided into eight groups: Normal control group (n=6), SFN-treated group (n=6), quercetin-treated group (n=6), curcumin-treated group (n=6), BHA-treated group (n=6), indole-3-carbinol treated group (n=6), vehicle 1 control group (n=6), and vehicle 2 control group (n=6). All chemicals were administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 14 days. Vehicle 1 (dimethyl sulfoxide, TweenTM 20, and normal saline at a ratio ...

Research paper thumbnail of A Review of NAD(P)H:Quinone Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1); A Multifunctional Antioxidant Enzyme

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science

1 (NQO1) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyses two-or four-electron reduction of many endogenous a... more 1 (NQO1) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyses two-or four-electron reduction of many endogenous and environmental quinones using flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) as a cofactor. It is a cytosolic enzyme exists as a homodimer and is biochemically distinguished by its prominent ability to use either NADH or NADPH as reducing cofactors and by its suppression by the anticoagulant dicumarol. This enzyme generally considered as a detoxification enzyme due to of its ability to diminish reactive quinones and quinoneimines to its less reactive and less toxic hydroquinones forms. NQO1 is a substantially inducible enzyme that is controlled by the Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway. Evidence for the significance of the antioxidant functions of NQO1 in suppression of oxidative stress is provided by manifestations that induction of NQO1 levels or their reduction are associated with reduced and raised susceptibilities to oxidative stress, respectively. The gene coding for NQO1 has two common polymorphisms at nucleotide position 609(C-T) and 465 (C-T) of the human cDNA. C465T causes reduction in enzyme activity, whereas the C609T results in complete loss of enzymatic activity due to protein instability.In this review, we discuss the protective functions of NQO1 and present its possible transcriptional pathways regulating its induction by Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway.

Research paper thumbnail of The effect of administration of an equal dose of different classes of dietary chemicals on heme oxygenase-1 gene expression in mice liver

Frontiers in Pharmacology

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction on the Expression of Glutathione S-Transferase Isoenzymes in Mice Liver

Sains Malaysiana

Glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes (GSTs) catalyze the conjugation reaction between glutathione... more Glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes (GSTs) catalyze the conjugation reaction between glutathione and electrophilic compounds. GSTs are involved in the detoxification of toxic and carcinogenic compounds, thus protecting the body from toxic injuries. Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and is believed to possess potent antioxidant activity. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of increasing doses of tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on liver GSTs gene and protein expression. A total of 30 male ICR white mice were divided into five groups (n=6 for each group) and given treatment for 14 days through oral supplementation. Groups were divided as follows:-three groups administered with TRF at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, a positive control group administered with 100 mg/kg butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and a control group administered with only the vehicle (corn oil). At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. Total RNA was extracted from the liver and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were performed to analyze GSTs gene expression. Total liver protein was also extracted and the protein expression of GSTs was determined by Western blotting. The results showed that TRF oral supplementation caused a significant dose-dependent increase in liver GST isoenzymes gene and protein expression, compared to controls. In conclusion, TRF oral supplementation for 14 days resulted in increased gene and protein expression of GST isoenzymes in mice liver dose-dependently, with the highest expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg TRF.

Research paper thumbnail of Tocotrienol-rich Palm Oil Extract Induces NAD(P)H:quinone Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) Expression in Mice Liver

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2016

A diet rich in tocotrienols has been shown to be beneficial for health. However, its detailed mec... more A diet rich in tocotrienols has been shown to be beneficial for health. However, its detailed mechanism of action is still not fully understood. NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) is important in cellular defence due to its ability to detoxify reactive quinones and quinoneimines to their less toxic hydroquinones forms. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of different doses of palm oil-derived tocotrienol rich fraction (palm TRF) supplementation on NQO1 gene and protein expression in mice livers. Western blot and qPCR assays were used to detect NQO1 expression levels. It was found that palm TRF significantly induced NQO1 expression at all doses given. In conclusion, palm TRF treatment increased NQO1 gene and protein expression in mice liver dose dependently, with the highest expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg palm TRF, followed by 500 and 200 mg/kg respectively.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Selected Dietary Chemicals on Nrf2 Nuclear Translocation in the Mouse Liver

Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Kea... more Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. However, the difference in Nrf2 activation potency of these chemicals is not well studied. This study is aimed at determining the difference in the potency of liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by the administration of equal doses of selected dietary chemicals in mice. Male ICR white mice were administered 50 mg/kg of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol for 14 days. On day 15, the animals were sacrificed, and their livers were isolated. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared, and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the implication of the Nrf2 nuclear translocation on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, liver RNA was extracted for qPCR assay. Equal doses of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol significantly induced the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 with different intensities and subsequently increased the expression of Nrf2-regulated genes with an almost similar pattern as the Nrf2 nuclear translocation intensities (sulforaphane > butylated hydroxyanisole = indole-3carbinol > curcumin > quercetin). In conclusion, sulforaphane is the most potent dietary chemical that induces the Nrf2 translocation into the nuclear fraction in the mouse liver.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Selected Dietary Chemicals on Nrf2 Nuclear Translocation in the Mouse Liver

Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity

Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Kea... more Certain dietary chemicals influenced the expression of chemopreventive genes through the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. However, the difference in Nrf2 activation potency of these chemicals is not well studied. This study is aimed at determining the difference in the potency of liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by the administration of equal doses of selected dietary chemicals in mice. Male ICR white mice were administered 50 mg/kg of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol for 14 days. On day 15, the animals were sacrificed, and their livers were isolated. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared, and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the implication of the Nrf2 nuclear translocation on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, liver RNA was extracted for qPCR assay. Equal doses of sulforaphane, quercetin, curcumin, butylated hydroxyanisole, and indole-3-carbinol significantly induced the n...

Research paper thumbnail of Liver heme oxygenase-1 expression is positively induced by palm oil-derived tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) supplementation in mice

The antioxidant activities of tocotrienols are more robust than that of tocopherols. Palm oil is ... more The antioxidant activities of tocotrienols are more robust than that of tocopherols. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that has antioxidant, antiinflammatory and cytoprotective functions. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of different doses of TRF oral supplementation on HO-1 gene and protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25-30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n = 6 per group), a positive control group was administered 100 mg/kg butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days (n = 6), and a control group (n = 6) was only administered the vehicle (corn oil). At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. Total RNA was extracted from the livers and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were performed to analyse HO-1 gene expression. The liv...

Research paper thumbnail of D9: The Effect of Palm Oil-Derived Tocotrienol Rich Fraction on Heme Oxygenase-1 Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess pote... more Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess potent antioxidant activity. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective functions. Methods: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of increasing doses of palm oilderived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on HO-1 protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25-30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered palm TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n=6 for each group), a positive control group administered butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days at a dose of 100 mg/kg (n=6), and the last group (n=6), which comprise control mice, were only administered vehicle which is corn oil. At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. The livers were then homogenized and protein expression of HO-1 was determined by Western blotting. Results: Palm TRF oral supplementation at concentrations of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg for 14 days caused a significant concentration-dependent increase in HO-1 protein expression in mice livers, compared to controls. Conclusion: Palm TRF oral supplementation for 14 days resulted in increased HO-1 protein expression in mice liver dose dependently, with the highest protein expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg TRF, followed by 500 and 200 mg/kg respectively.

Research paper thumbnail of An evaluation of sulforaphane as a potential agent for disease prevention

Research journal of pharmaceutical, biological and chemical sciences, 2014

This research examines sulforaphane (SFN), a phytochemical element that is found in certain plant... more This research examines sulforaphane (SFN), a phytochemical element that is found in certain plants and vegetables. SFN has particular biological behaviours and roles to combat many diseases. It can be found mainly in vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli. SFN is a nutritional isothiocyanate compound and is known as a glucosinolate precursor. It is reputed to have valuable pharmacological properties, namely antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties, and also functions as an agent of defence against diabetes, ocular disorders and cardiovascular diseases as well as for neurodegenerative disease. It also efficiently searches out and feeds on ROS (reactive oxygen species). Sulforaphane is a potential antioxidant for relieving oxidative stress and reducing tissue/cell damage in various in vivo and in vitro experimental models. The results of this research confirm that the natural compound, SFN, has several protective properties and that the nu...

Research paper thumbnail of Food consumption and body weight in mice treated with palm oil–derived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF)

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of equal doses of sulforaphane, curcumin and quercetin on Heme Oxygenase-1 gene and protein expression in mice liver

Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of A review of antioxidant polyphenol curcumin and its role in detoxification

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2014

Curcumin (diferuloymethane), a yellow colouring agent present in the rhizome of Curcuma longa Lin... more Curcumin (diferuloymethane), a yellow colouring agent present in the rhizome of Curcuma longa Linn (Zingiberaceae), has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities. Despite such significant anti-tumor efficacies and bio-safety profiles of curcumin, its poor systemic bioavailability originating from sub-optimal absorption, rapid metabolism and fast systemic elimination, is turning out to be one of the major impeding factors retarding its clinical success. Curcumin exerts its chemoprotective and chemopreventive effects via multiple mechanisms. It has been reported to induce expression of the antioxidant enzymes in various cell lines. Curcumin significantly increased expression of Nrf2 as well as phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes. The redox-sensitive transcription factor, nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45 (NF-E2)-related factor (Nrf2) plays a key role in regulating induction of phase II detoxifying or antioxidant enzymes. Thus, activa...

Research paper thumbnail of A review of flavonoid quercetin: Metabolism, Bioactivity and antioxidant properties

International Journal of PharmTech Research, 2014

Flavonoids belong to a category of polyphenolic com p unds that are produced exclusively in plant... more Flavonoids belong to a category of polyphenolic com p unds that are produced exclusively in plants. These compounds are able to bring about various bio logical and pharmacological activities in animal ce l s. It is generally believed that most mammals need to consum e polyphenols from plants due to their antioxidant properties in order to stay healthy. The antioxidan ts are essential for protecting the cells from unde rgoing chemical damage due to oxidation. Many compounds ar e known to have both antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties. The pro-oxidant properties can either b e favourable or detrimental to biological systems a nd can affect the progress of chronic diseases in human be ings. Quercetin, the most plentiful flavonoid, acts as both an antioxidant and a pro-oxidant. Currently, there is no reliable method for maintaining a balance betwee n th se two activities in the whole organism. Therefore, th is review focuses on Metabolism, bioactivity and both the antioxidant and pro-...

Research paper thumbnail of Dietary Phytochemicals Activate the Redox-Sensitive Transcription Factor NRF2

International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014

Nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a crucial role in regul... more Nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a crucial role in regulating phase-2 detoxifying/antioxidant gene induction. Under physiological conditions, NRF2 is mainly located in the cytoplasm. However, in response to oxidative stress, NRF2 translocates to the nucleus and binds to specific DNA sites, termed “antioxidant response elements” or “electrophile response elements,” to initiate the transcription of numerous cytoprotective genes. Many structurally diverse antioxidants derived from various sources of dietary phytochemicals have been found to activate this particular redox-sensitive transcription factor, thereby potentiating the cellular detoxification action of Nrf2.This review focuses on known phytochemical inducers and the mechanism by which they regulate antioxidant responsive element (ARE)/Nrf2-dependent detoxification genes.

Research paper thumbnail of Overview of the role of B2-adrenergic receptor variants in human hypertension

Essential hypertension isa complex traitto whichmultifactorial origin arising from an interaction... more Essential hypertension isa complex traitto whichmultifactorial origin arising from an interaction between genetic and environmental factorscontribute interactively. Consequently, the identification of genes related to hypertension is complicated by the heterogeneity of its causes and the possibility that various genes with moderate impacts, probably acting in a same manner, affect blood pressure and the occurrence of hypertension. Multiple studies have suggested that variation within the β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) is implicated in blood pressure regulation and the development of hypertension. The evidence for ADRB2 gene association with hypertension is not conclusive. There are conflicting reports on the association of these polymorphisms with hypertension. Several reports have suggested the association of the ADRB2 variants with the prevalence of hypertension and systolic blood pressure (BP)whilst others refuted the association. The role of these findings is reviewed here, and ...

Research paper thumbnail of Palm Oil Tocotrienols in Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment

Elaeis guineensis, 2022

Cancer remains a worrying cause of fatality worldwide despite the advancement in medicine. Among ... more Cancer remains a worrying cause of fatality worldwide despite the advancement in medicine. Among the dietary phytonutrients, tocotrienols have been extensively studied for their bioactivity against cancer. Palm oil is a rich source of tocotrienols. The most common formulation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction of palm oil (TRF). The anticancer activities of tocotrienols were once presumed due to their antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. However, recent evidence suggested that tocotrienols are capable of demonstrating cancer-fighting properties through their influence in various signalling pathways. The selectivity of tocotrienols in killing cancer cells without affecting normal cells is indicative of their potential role in cancer treatment and prevention. Tocotrienols had proven to be particularly effective in the chemoprevention and treatment of breast, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate and liver cancers in many in vitro and in vivo animal experiments....

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Palm Oil-Derived Tocotrienol Rich Fraction on Heme Oxygenase-1 Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess pote... more Introduction: Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and has been reported to possess potent antioxidant activity. Palm oil is a rich natural source of tocotrienols. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an enzyme that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective functions. Method: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of increasing doses of palm oil-derived tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on HO-1 protein expression in mice livers. Thirty male ICR white mice (25–30 g) were divided into five groups; three groups were administered palm TRF orally for 14 days at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively (n=6 for each group), a positive control group administered butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) orally for 14 days at a dose of 100 mg/kg (n=6), and the last group (n=6), which comprise control mice, were only administered vehicle which is corn oil. At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. The livers were then homogenized ...

Research paper thumbnail of Tocotrienols activate Nrf2 nuclear translocation and increase the antioxidant-related hepatoprotective mechanism in mice liver

Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Background: The most common preparation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF). T... more Background: The most common preparation of tocotrienols is the tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF). This study aimed to investigate whether TRF induced liver Nrf2 nuclear translocation and influenced the expression of Nrf2-regulated genes. Methods: In the Nrf2 induction study, mice were divided into control, 2000 mg/kg TRF and diethyl maleate treated groups. After acute treatment, mice were sacrificed at specific time points. Liver nuclear extracts were prepared and Nrf2 nuclear translocation was detected through Western blotting. To determine the effect of increasing doses of TRF on the extent of liver nuclear Nrf2 translocation and its implication on the expression levels of several Nrf2-regulated genes, mice were divided into 5 groups (control, 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg TRF, and butylated hydroxyanisole-treated groups). After 14 days, mice were sacrificed and liver RNA extracted for qPCR assay. Results: 2000 mg/kg TRF administration initiated Nrf2 nuclear translocation within 30 min, r...

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Administration of an Equal Dose of Different Classes of Phytochemicals on Heme OXYGENASE-1 Gene and Protein Expression in Mice Liver

Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research

Objective: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is enzyme that possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and c... more Objective: Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is enzyme that possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective functions. Induction of HO-1 occurs as an adaptive and beneficial response to various injurious stimuli such as oxidative stress. This study is aimed at monitoring the effects of administration of equal doses (50 mg/kg) of sulforaphane (SFN), curcumin, quercetin, indole-3-carbinol, and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) for 14 days on the levels of liver HO-1 gene and protein expression in mice. Method: A total of 48 adult male ICR white mice (25–30 g) were divided into eight groups: Normal control group (n=6), SFN-treated group (n=6), quercetin-treated group (n=6), curcumin-treated group (n=6), BHA-treated group (n=6), indole-3-carbinol treated group (n=6), vehicle 1 control group (n=6), and vehicle 2 control group (n=6). All chemicals were administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 14 days. Vehicle 1 (dimethyl sulfoxide, TweenTM 20, and normal saline at a ratio ...

Research paper thumbnail of A Review of NAD(P)H:Quinone Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1); A Multifunctional Antioxidant Enzyme

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science

1 (NQO1) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyses two-or four-electron reduction of many endogenous a... more 1 (NQO1) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyses two-or four-electron reduction of many endogenous and environmental quinones using flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) as a cofactor. It is a cytosolic enzyme exists as a homodimer and is biochemically distinguished by its prominent ability to use either NADH or NADPH as reducing cofactors and by its suppression by the anticoagulant dicumarol. This enzyme generally considered as a detoxification enzyme due to of its ability to diminish reactive quinones and quinoneimines to its less reactive and less toxic hydroquinones forms. NQO1 is a substantially inducible enzyme that is controlled by the Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway. Evidence for the significance of the antioxidant functions of NQO1 in suppression of oxidative stress is provided by manifestations that induction of NQO1 levels or their reduction are associated with reduced and raised susceptibilities to oxidative stress, respectively. The gene coding for NQO1 has two common polymorphisms at nucleotide position 609(C-T) and 465 (C-T) of the human cDNA. C465T causes reduction in enzyme activity, whereas the C609T results in complete loss of enzymatic activity due to protein instability.In this review, we discuss the protective functions of NQO1 and present its possible transcriptional pathways regulating its induction by Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway.

Research paper thumbnail of The effect of administration of an equal dose of different classes of dietary chemicals on heme oxygenase-1 gene expression in mice liver

Frontiers in Pharmacology

Research paper thumbnail of The Effect of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction on the Expression of Glutathione S-Transferase Isoenzymes in Mice Liver

Sains Malaysiana

Glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes (GSTs) catalyze the conjugation reaction between glutathione... more Glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes (GSTs) catalyze the conjugation reaction between glutathione and electrophilic compounds. GSTs are involved in the detoxification of toxic and carcinogenic compounds, thus protecting the body from toxic injuries. Tocotrienols are part of the vitamin E family and is believed to possess potent antioxidant activity. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of increasing doses of tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) supplementation on liver GSTs gene and protein expression. A total of 30 male ICR white mice were divided into five groups (n=6 for each group) and given treatment for 14 days through oral supplementation. Groups were divided as follows:-three groups administered with TRF at doses of 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, a positive control group administered with 100 mg/kg butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and a control group administered with only the vehicle (corn oil). At day 15, the mice were sacrificed and their livers isolated. Total RNA was extracted from the liver and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were performed to analyze GSTs gene expression. Total liver protein was also extracted and the protein expression of GSTs was determined by Western blotting. The results showed that TRF oral supplementation caused a significant dose-dependent increase in liver GST isoenzymes gene and protein expression, compared to controls. In conclusion, TRF oral supplementation for 14 days resulted in increased gene and protein expression of GST isoenzymes in mice liver dose-dependently, with the highest expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg TRF.

Research paper thumbnail of Tocotrienol-rich Palm Oil Extract Induces NAD(P)H:quinone Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) Expression in Mice Liver

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2016

A diet rich in tocotrienols has been shown to be beneficial for health. However, its detailed mec... more A diet rich in tocotrienols has been shown to be beneficial for health. However, its detailed mechanism of action is still not fully understood. NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) is important in cellular defence due to its ability to detoxify reactive quinones and quinoneimines to their less toxic hydroquinones forms. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of different doses of palm oil-derived tocotrienol rich fraction (palm TRF) supplementation on NQO1 gene and protein expression in mice livers. Western blot and qPCR assays were used to detect NQO1 expression levels. It was found that palm TRF significantly induced NQO1 expression at all doses given. In conclusion, palm TRF treatment increased NQO1 gene and protein expression in mice liver dose dependently, with the highest expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg/kg palm TRF, followed by 500 and 200 mg/kg respectively.