Mitigation of carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic injury by methylene blue, a repurposed drug, is mediated by dual inhibition of GSK3β downstream of PKA.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Methylene blue (MB) has recently been considered for new therapeutic applications. In this study, we investigated whether MB has antioxidant and mitochondria-protecting effects and can prevent the development of toxicant-induced hepatitis. In addition, we explored the underlying basis of its effects.

Experimental approach

Blood biochemistry and histopathology were assessed in mice injected with CCl4 (0.5 mL·kg(-1)) following MB administration (3 mg·kg(-1) ·day(-1), 3 days). Immunoblottings were performed to measure protein levels. Cell survival, H2 O2 , and mitochondrial superoxide and membrane permeability transition were determined in HepG2 cells.

Key results

MB protected cells from oxidative stress induced by arachidonic acid plus iron; it re

SUBMITTER: Wu HM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4243855 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature