Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Irigenen Alleviate Osteoarthritis Progression through Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative disease globally, characterized by cartilage degradation and joint dysfunction. Current treatments are insufficient for halting OA progression. Irigenin (IRI), a flavonoid extracted from natural plants with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has demonstrated potential in mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress in various diseases; however, its effects on OA remain unexplored. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effects of IRI on OA through in vivo and in vitro experiments and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS: ) to induce an oxidative stress environment and were then treated with IRI. Western blotting, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence staining assays, flow cytometry, and apoptosis assays were employed to assess the effects of IRI on chondrocyte matrix homeostasis, inflammatory response, and apoptosis. In vivo, an OA rat model was treated with regular IRI injections, and therapeutic effects were evaluated using micro-CT, histological staining, and immunohistochemistry assays. RESULTS: -induced inflammation and apoptosis. Subsequent studies further revealed that IRI exerts its therapeutic effects by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Inhibition of Nrf2 expression in chondrocytes partially blocked the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of IRI. In the OA rat model, regular IRI injections effectively ameliorated cartilage degeneration. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies IRI as a promising strategy for OA treatment by modulating inflammation and apoptosis through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
Source: Pharmaceuticals
DOI: 10.3390/ph17101268
Authors: Xuan Fang, Hongqi Zhao, Tao Xu, Hua Wu, Gaohong Sheng
Language: English
Subfield: Rheumatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,296
OpenAlex ID: W4402885543