Isolation of Novel ACE-Inhibitory and Antioxidant Peptides from Quinoa Bran Albumin Assisted with an In Silico Approach: Characterization, In Vivo Antihypertension, and Molecular Docking

Albumin is the major fraction of quinoa protein that is characterized as having high nutritional value. However, until now, scant information is available on the bioactivity of quinoa albumin or its hydrolysates. To promote its usage, we extracted albumin in this study from quinoa bran assisted with cellulase and hemicellulose, and hydrolyzed it by alcalase and trypsin to produce bioactive peptides. The hydrolysates (QBAH) were purified by gel filtration and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), followed by identification using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Furthermore, based on in silico analysis, one angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibitory and antioxidant peptide, RGQVIYVL (946.6 Da), and two antioxidant peptides, ASPKPSSA (743.8 Da), and QFLLAGR (803.5 Da), from QBAH were synthesized. RGQVIYVL showed a high ACE-inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 38.16 μM) with competitive mode of inhibition, and showed significant antihypertensive effect in spontaneously hypertensive rats at a concentration of 100–150 mg/kg body weight (bw). Molecular docking simulation showed that it could interact with the active ACE site via hydrogen bonds with high binding power. Moreover, RGQVIYVL, ASPKPSSA, and QFLLAGR all demonstrated high ·OH scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 61.69–117.46 μM), ABTS⁺ scavenging activity (58.29–74.28%) and Fe²⁺ chelating ability (32.54–82.48% at 0.5 mg/mL). They could also retain activity after gastrointestinal enzyme digestion. These results indicate that quinoa albumin is a potential source of bioactive peptides possessing antioxidant and ACE-inhibitory activities.

A systems pharmacology approach to investigate the mechanism of Oryeong-san formula for the treatment of hypertension

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Oryeong-san (ORS) is a traditional formula that has long been used for the treatment of dysfunctions of body fluids and electrolyte homeostasis in Korea, China and Japan. Recent reports have shown that ORS may suppress hypertension by controlling the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in the kidney, but its action mechanism has not been well defined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to decipher the ORS mechanisms in the treatment of hypertension using a systems pharmacology approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The compounds of ORS were obtained from the TM-MC (database of medicinal materials and chemical compounds in Northeast Asian traditional medicine), and the drug-likeness (DL) and oral bioavailability (OB) of the compounds were evaluated. The potential targets of the compounds were identified using various pharmacology databases. To analyze the mechanisms of the ORS for hypertension, a Compound-Target-Disease (C-T-D) network was established with respect to the genes related to hypertension.

RESULTS

A screening evaluation of the DL and OB of the ORS compounds identified a list of 232 active compounds. The pharmacological activity of the targets was investigated by exploring the interaction network between the compounds and the targets. Analysis of the interactions between the compounds and the hypertension-related targets revealed that 14 ORS compounds regulate the RAAS and vasoconstrictors in the kidney.

CONCLUSIONS

This study used the systems pharmacology approach to decipher the mechanisms of action of ORS for the treatment of hypertension. When hypertension drugs and ORS are used in combination for treatment, possible side effects should be considered because most hypertension drugs are related to the RAAS. The results of this study may provide clues to not only analyze the pharmacological activity of ORS for the treatment of hypertension but other diseases as well.

Systematic Elucidation of the Mechanism of Genistein against Pulmonary Hypertension via Network Pharmacology Approach

Numerous studies have shown that genistein has a good therapeutic effect on pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, there has been no systematic research performed yet to elucidate its exact mechanism of action in relation to PH. In this study, a systemic pharmacology approach was employed to analyze the anti-PH effect of genistein. Firstly, the preliminary predicted targets of genistein against PH were obtained through database mining, and then the correlation of these targets with PH was analyzed. After that, the protein-protein interaction network was constructed, and the functional annotation and cluster analysis were performed to obtain the core targets and key pathways involved in exerting the anti-PH effect of genistein. Finally, the mechanism was further analyzed via molecular docking of genistein with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). The results showed that the anti-PH effect of genistein may be closely related to PPARγ, apoptotic signaling pathway, and the nitric oxide synthesis process. This study not only provides new insights into the mechanism of genistein against PH, but also provides novel ideas for network approaches for PH-related research.

Molecular conformation, vibrational spectroscopic and NBO analysis of atenolol and atenolol-hydrochlorothiazide cocrystals

Geometry optimization of atenolol (ATN) in the gas phase was carried out using B3LYP-D3BJ/6-31++G(d,p), CAM-B3LYP/6-31++G(d,p) and M06-2X/6-31++G(d,p) levels of DFT. The computed structural parameters were compared with the data obtained by single crystal X-ray diffraction experiment. Chemical reactivity (electronegativity, electrophilicity, hardness, chemical softness and chemical potential) was predicted with the help of HOMO- LUMO energy values. Experimental FT-IR was recorded and the calculated values were also analyzed using the same level of DFT. A complete vibrational spectrum was made to analyze the potential energy distribution (PED). Stability of the molecule arising from hyperconjugative interaction was analyzed by the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. The molecular electrostatic potential map was used to detect the possible electrophilic and nucleophilic sites in ATN molecule. Cocrystallization of atenolol-hydrochlorothiazide (ATN-HCTZ) was performed and the structure was analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction. NBO analysis was carried out on the ATN-HCTZ cocrystal for the elucidation of inter and intra-molecular hydrogen bonding interactions in the structure. Atenolol interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) was investigated by a molecular docking study.

Physicochemical Stability of Compounded Amlodipine Besylate Suspensions in PCCA Base, SuspendIt

Amlodipine besylate is an antihypertensive agent recommended for the management of hypertension in children and adolescents. The commercially available 2.5-mg, 5-mg, and 10-mg amlodipine besylate tablets do not provide the necessary flexibility in dosing needed for treating children. This flexibility is readily achieved using an oral, liquid dosage form. However, no commercial liquid dosage form of amlodipine currently exists. An extemporaneously compounded suspension from pure drug powder or commercial tablets would provide a convenient option to meet unique patient needs. The purpose of this study was to determine the physicochemical stability of extemporaneously compounded amlodipine besylate suspensions in the PCCA Base, SuspendIt. This base is a sugar-free, paraben-free, dye-free, and gluten-free thixotropic vehicle containing a natural sweetener obtained from the monk fruit. The study design included two amlodipine besylate concentrations to provide stability documentation over a bracketed concentration range for eventual use by compounding pharmacists. A robust stabilityindicating high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for the determination of the chemical stability of amlodipine besylate in SuspendIt was developed and validated. Suspensions of amlodipine were prepared in SuspendIt at 0.5-mg/mL and 10.0-mg/mL concentrations, selected to represent a range within which the drug is commonly dosed. Samples were stored in plastic amber prescription bottles at two temperature conditions (5°C and 25°C). Samples were assayed initially, and at the following time points: 7 days, 14 days, 29 days, 46 days, 60 days, 90 days, 120 days, and 180 days. Physical data such as pH, viscosity, and appearance were also noted. All measurements were obtained in triplicate. A stable extemporaneous product is defined as one that retains at least 90% of the initial drug concentration throughout the sampling period. This study demonstrates that amlodipine besylate is physically and chemically stable in SuspendIt for 90 days in the refrigerator and 7 days at room temperature, retaining 90% of the label claim (initial drug concentration) at both concentrations. The pH values did not change significantly. The viscosity of the refrigerated samples at both concentrations decreased slightly, while that of the room temperature samples showed a marked increase in viscosity. This study provides a viable, compounded alternative for amlodipine in a liquid dosage form, with an adequate beyond-use-date to meet patient needs. The study further provides stability documentation over a bracketed amlodipine concentration range of 0.5 mg/mL to 10.0 mg/mL, allowing compounding pharmacists more flexibility in customizing their formulations.

Comparative degradation of two highly consumed antihypertensives in water by sonochemical process. Determination of the reaction zone, primary degradation products and theoretical calculations on the oxidative process

This work compares the sonochemical degradation of losartan and valsartan (antihypertensives) in water. Initially, the suitable operational conditions of ultrasonic power density and frequency were established. Under such conditions, losartan was eliminated in a higher percentage than valsartan, which was associated to differences in their hydrophobicities. Additionally, degradations in presence of isopropanol and ferrous ions confirmed that losartan was closer to cavitation bubble than valsartan. The structures of primary products indicated that sonogenerated hydroxyl radical attacked biphenyl tetrazole moiety (common nucleus of both pharmaceuticals). Then, theoretical calculations were applied to the products to estimate the toxicity, degree of oxidation and probable routes of aerobic biodegradation suggesting a beneficial action of sonodegradation. Finally, the sonochemical degradation of the antihypertensives was carried out in two simulated complex matrices (i.e., seawater and hospital wastewater) and an actual wastewater. Interestingly, the losartan and valsartan eliminations in such waters were similar to the observed in distilled water. This fact indicates the high potentiality of ultrasound to degrade losartan or valsartan in waters containing other substances, even at higher concentrations than these pollutants.

Pd(NHC)(cinnamyl)Cl-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling reaction of aryl sulfonates with arylboronic acids

A series of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-palladium catalysts have been synthesized and applied to catalyze the Suzuki coupling reaction efficiently between aryl sulfonates and arylboronic acids with the potassium phosphate heptahydrate as a base. The desired yields are obtained even with less reactive aryl tosylates or aryl mesylates as substrates. This method was applied successfully to the synthesis of the (R)-2-(t-butoxycarbonylamino)-3-(biphenyl-4-yl)-propan-1-ol which is the key intermediate of sacubitril, a component of the newly approved antihypertensive drug "Entresto."

Peptidomic Approach for the Identification of Peptides with Potential Antioxidant and Anti-Hyperthensive Effects Derived From Asparagus By-Products

Asparagus waste represents products of great interest since many compounds with high biological value are located in the lower portion of the spears. The extraction of bioactive compounds from asparagus by-products is therefore crucial for the purpose of adding value to these by-products. In this paper, bioactive peptides from asparagus waste were extracted, digested, purified and identified. In particular, Alcalase^® was chosen as the enzyme to use to obtain protein hydrolysate due to its low cost and, consequently, the possibility of implementing the method on a large scale. In order to simplify the peptide extract to reach better identification, the hydrolysate was fractionated by reversed-phase chromatography in 10 fractions. Two tests were carried out for antioxidant activity (ABTS-DPPH) and one for antihypertensive activity (ACE). Fractions with a higher bioactivity score were identified by peptidomics technologies and screened for bioactivity with the use of bioinformatics. For ACE-inhibitor activity, two peptides were synthetized, PDWFLLL and ASQSIWLPGWL, which provided an EC₅₀ value of 1.76 µmol L⁻¹ and 4.02 µmol L⁻¹, respectively. For the antioxidant activity, by DPPH assay, MLLFPM exhibited the lowest EC50 value at 4.14 µmol L⁻¹, followed by FIARNFLLGW and FAPVPFDF with EC50 values of 6.76 µmol L⁻¹ and 10.01 µmol L⁻¹, respectively. A validation of the five identified peptides was also carried out. The obtained results showed that peptides obtained from asparagus by-products are of interest for their biological activity and are suitable for being used as functional ingredients.

Isolation and Characterization of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides from Peach Seed Hydrolysates: In Vivo Assessment of Antihypertensive Activity

A peptide fraction with molecular masses below 3 kDa (PSH-3 kDa) from a peach seed hydrolysate demonstrated high angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity (concentration to inhibit 50% ACE (IC₅₀) = 16.4 μg/mL) in our previous work. This work proposes a further study of this highly active fraction. RP-HPLC enabled two fractions (F3 and F4) with high inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 2.0 ± 0.5 and 1.2 ± 0.2 μg/mL, respectively) to be isolated. Peptide analysis by LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS using reverse-phase and hydrophilic interaction chromatography enabled 33 peptides within both fractions to be identified. Among them, peptide isoleucine-tyrosine-serine-proline-histidine (IYSPH) showed the highest capacity. The lack of cytotoxicity of peptides was demonstrated in three different cell lines (HeLa, HT-29, and HK-2). Oral administration of PSH-3 kDa fraction or peptide IYSPH caused a significant systolic blood pressure reduction (-30 mmHg) on spontaneously hypertensive rats after 3-6 h treatment.

A novel angiotensin-I converting enzyme inhibitory peptide derived from the glutelin of vinegar soaked black soybean and its antihypertensive effect in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Vinegar soaked black soybean is a traditional Chinese food widely used for the treatment of hypertension. While its pharmacodynamic substance was not fully unveiled. It contained abundant glutelin, thus the purpose of this study was to obtain potent antihypertensive peptides from vinegar soaked black soybean. Black soybean was soaked with vinegar and then glutelin was first catalyzed by alcalase. Ultrafiltration, ion exchange chromatography and reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography were sequentially applied to separate and purify the angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides from glutelin hydrolysates. As a result, the fraction L1-4 with the highest ACE inhibitory activity (83.41%) at the final concentration of 0.01 mg/ml was obtained and five peptides were then identified. These peptides were further optimized by virtual screening combining with in silico proteolysis. Finally, a novel tetrapeptide Phe-Gly-Ser-Phe (FGSF) was obtained. FGSF exhibited high in vitro ACE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 117.11 μM) and in vivo hypotensive effect which maximally reduced systolic blood pressure of 21.95 mmHg at 20 mg/kg body weight in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Our study demonstrated that FGSF derived from vinegar soaked black soybean might be used as a promising ingredient for pharmaceuticals against hypertension and its related diseases.

Biodegradable Therapeutic Microneedle Patch for Rapid Antihypertensive Treatment

A hypertensive emergency causes severe cardiovascular diseases accompanied by acute target organ damage, requiring rapid and smooth blood pressure (BP) reduction. Current medicines for treating hypertensive emergencies, such as sodium nitroprusside (SNP), require careful dose control to avoid side effects (e.g., cyanide poisoning). The clinical administration of SNP using intravenous injection or drip further restrict its usage for first aid or self-aid in emergencies. Here, we developed an antihypertensive microneedle (aH-MN) technique to transdermally deliver SNP in combination with sodium thiosulfate (ST) as a cyanide antidote in a painless way. Dissolvable microneedles loaded with SNP and ST were fabricated via the centrifugation casting method, where the SNPs were stably packaged in microneedles and would be immediately released into the systemic circulation via subcutaneous capillaries when aH-MNs penetrated the skin. The antihypertensive effects were demonstrated on spontaneously hypertensive rat models. Rapid and potent BP reduction was achieved via aH-MN treatment, fulfilling clinical BP-control requirements for hypertensive emergencies. The side effects including skin irritation and target organ damage of aH-MN therapies were evaluated; the combinative delivery of ST effectively suppressed these side effects induced by the consecutive intake of SNP. This study introduces an efficient and patient-friendly antihypertensive therapy with a favorable side-effect profile, particularly a controllable and self-administrable approach to treat hypertensive emergencies.

19-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid analogs: Antagonism of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid-induced vascular sensitization and hypertension

19-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (19-HETE, 1), a metabolically and chemically labile cytochrome P450 eicosanoid, has diverse biological activities including antagonism of the vasoconstrictor 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE, 2). A SAR study was conducted to develop robust analogs of 1 with improved in vitro and in vivo efficacy. Analogs were screened in vitro for inhibition of 20-HETE-induced sensitization of rat renal preglomerular microvessels toward phenylephrine and demonstrated to normalize the blood pressure of male Cyp4a14(-/-) mice that display androgen-driven, 20-HETE-dependent hypertension.

Purification, Characterization and Evaluation of Inhibitory Mechanism of ACE Inhibitory Peptides from Pearl Oyster (Pinctada fucata martensii) Meat Protein Hydrolysate

Angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides derived from natural products have shown a blood pressure lowering effect with no side effects. In this study, two novel ACE inhibitory peptides (His-Leu-His-Thr, HLHT and Gly-Trp-Ala, GWA) were purified from pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata martensii) meat protein hydrolysate with alkaline protease by ultrafiltration, polyethylene glycol methyl ether modified immobilized metal ion affinity medium, and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Both peptides exhibited high ACE inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 458.06 ± 3.24 μM and 109.25 ± 1.45 μM, respectively. Based on the results of a Lineweaver-Burk plot, HLHT and GWA were found to be non-competitive inhibitor and competitive inhibitor respectively, which were confirmed by molecular docking. Furthermore, the pearl oyster meat protein hydrolysate exhibited an effective antihypertensive effect on SD rats. These results conclude that pearl oyster meat protein is a potential resource of ACE inhibitory peptides and the purified peptides, HLHT and GWA, can be exploited as functional food ingredients against hypertension.

Identification of the Hypertension Drug Guanfacine as an Antivirulence Agent in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

An alternative solution to the cyclical development of new antibiotics is the concept of disarming pathogens without affecting their growth, thereby eliminating the selective pressures that lead to resistant phenotypes. Here, we have employed our previously developed HiTES methodology to identify one such compound against the ESKAPE pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Rather than induce silent biosynthetic gene clusters, we used HiTES to suppress actively expressed virulence genes. By screening a library of 770 FDA-approved drugs, we identified guanfacine, a clinical hypertension drug, as an antivirulence agent in P. aeruginosa. Follow-up studies showed that guanfacine reduces biofilm formation and pyocycanin production without altering growth. Moreover, we identified a homologue of QseC, a sensor His kinase used by multiple pathogens to turn on virulence, as a target of guanfacine. Our studies suggest that guanfacine might be an attractive antivirulence lead in P. aeruginosa and provide a template for uncovering such molecules by screening for downregulators of actively expressed biosynthetic genes.

Improved bioavailability of Azelnidipine gastro retentive tablets-optimization and in-vivo assessment

Azelnidipine, dihydropyridine based calcium channel blocker has been used for treating ischemic heart disease and cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction but it is having a low bioavailability due to its poor solubility. The present study is to investigate the formulation and evaluation of floating tablets of Azelnidipine for controlled release and to increase bioavailability by increasing the gastrointestinal transit time and mucoadhesion of drug. The gastro retentive tablets were prepared by direct compression method using different concentrations of combination of Polyoxyethylene oxide WSR 303 as hydrophilic polymer and Potassium bicarbonate as gas generating agent. Main effects of the formulation variables were evaluated quantitatively using design approach showing that both independent variables have significant effects on floating lag time, % drug release at 1 h (D1 h) and time required to release 90% of the drug (t90). The statistically optimized formulation (F3) released 95.11 ± 1.43% drug for 12 h followed K-Peppas drug release kinetics indicating release of drug by diffusion and erosion mechanism. Evaluation of the optimized formulation in vivo in human volunteers showed that the GFT was buoyant in gastric fluid and that its gastric residence time was enhanced. Pharmacokinetics studies carried out revealed significant (P < 0.05) equivalent Cmax, longer Tmax and higher AUC values for the optimized formula compared to the marketed oral product. From the results obtained it can be concluded that Azelnidipine Gastro retentive tablets with enhanced bioavailability and better release pattern is suitable for more effective treatment compared to marketed conventional tablets.

Isolation and Characterization of Three Antihypertension Peptides from the Mycelia of Ganoderma Lucidum (Agaricomycetes)

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) has been widely used in Asia to treat hypertension, but the active substances responsible for its antihypertensive effects remain unclear. Using the well-established angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) as a target, we identified three ACE inhibitory peptides (ACEIPs), Gln-Leu-Val-Pro (QLVP), Gln-Asp-Val-Leu (QDVL), and Gln-Leu-Asp-Leu (QLDL), which account for the antihypertensive activity of G. lucidum. Notably, QLVP worked in a mixed-type manner against ACE with an IC₅₀ value of 127.9 μmol/L. Molecular dynamics simulation suggested that the potent charge energy of QLVP, which interacted with Gln242 and Lys472 of ACE via a hydrogen bond and a salt bridge, potentially contributed to ACE inhibitory activity. Moreover, QLVP markedly activated angiotensin I-mediated phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and partly reduced mRNA and protein expression of the vasoconstrictor factor endothelin-1. This is the first report of the antihypertensive activity of small ACEIPs originating from G. lucidum mycelia, paving the way for the possible application of these peptides as potent drug candidates for treating hypertension.

Antihypertensive Indigenous Lebanese Plants: Ethnopharmacology and a Clinical Trial

Hypertension is highly prevalent among the Lebanese adult population and is indeed the major cause of mortality in Lebanon. Traditional use of antihypertensive medicinal plants has long been practiced. The aim of this study is to document this traditional knowledge and clinically test the antihypertensive capacity of three of the most commonly used wild plant species Mentha longifolia, Viola odorata and Urtica dioica. Ethno-pharmacological data was collected by personal interviews with herbalists and traditional healers using a semi structured survey questionnaire and assessing relative frequency of citation (RFC). The clinical study was conducted by a randomized, blind, placebo-controlled trial in 29 subjects with mild hypertension distributed in four groups, three plant extract treatments and one placebo. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressures (DBP) as well as mean arterial blood pressures (MAP) were monitored at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16 during the treatment with 300 mL/day of plant extract. Results showed that M. longifolia, U. dioica and V. odorata exhibited the highest values of RCF (0.95) followed by Allium ampeloprasum (0.94), Apium graveolens (0.92) and Crataegus azarolus (0.90). The clinical trial revealed dose- and duration-dependent significant reductions in SBP, DBP and MAP of subjects treated with M. longifolia, U. dioica or V. odorata. Our findings indicate that extracts of these plants present an effective, safe and promising potential as a phyto-therapuetical approach for the treatment of mild hypertension. More research on the phytochemistry, pharmacological effects and the underlying mechanisms is necessary.

Discovery and Study of Novel Antihypertensive Peptides Derived from Cassia obtusifolia Seeds

Antihypertensive peptides were screened from thermolysin hydrolysate of Cassia obtusifolia seeds (Jue Ming Zi) using two independent bioassay-guided fractionations, reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), and strong cation-exchange (SCX) liquid chromatography coupled with angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory assay. The identical peptide in the most active RP-HPLC and SCX fractions was simultaneously de novo sequenced as FHAPWK with high-resolution mass spectrometry. FHAPWK (IC₅₀ = 16.83 ± 0.90 μM) was further identified as a competitive inhibitor and a true inhibitor on ACE by a Lineweaver-Burk plot and preincubation experiment, respectively. The molecular docking simulation indicated that FHAPWK could interact with several key residues of the ACE active site, which is consistent with the result of the inhibitory kinetics study. Moreover, its antihypertensive effect was demonstrated using the animal model of spontaneously hypertensive rats. It is concluded that FHAPWK is the first reported antihypertensive peptide derived from thermolysin hydrolysate of C. obtusifolia seeds.

Effect of high-intensity ultrasound on the nutritional profile and volatile compounds of a prebiotic soursop whey beverage

This study evaluated the nutritional profile and volatile compounds present in a novel prebiotic (inulin) soursop whey beverage, due to the effects of high-intensity ultrasound (HIUS). The prebiotic soursop whey beverage was produced and processed by non-thermal high-intensity ultrasound varying the power (0, 200, 400 and 600 W) and by high-temperature short time (72 °C for 15 s) thermal treatment. Total acidity, pH, ascorbic acid content, total phenolics compounds content, antioxidant activity, hypertensive activity, fatty acid profile, volatile organic compounds, macro and micro minerals, as well as the heavy metals in these products, were analyzed. Overall, the HIUS technology induced some positive changes in the nutritional profile of the soursop whey beverage including beneficial effects, e.g., increase of phenolic content, improvement of the antioxidant and anti-hypertensive activity and reduction of undesired minerals. Although some negative changes, such as degradation of the ascorbic acid, decrease of some minerals and production of certain volatile compounds were found, the beneficial effects were prominent, thus, opening new opportunities to develop healthy functional beverages.

In Vitro and in Vivo Studies on the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Activity Peptides Isolated from Broccoli Protein Hydrolysate

In the present study we purified and identified peptides from broccoli protein hydrolysates and evaluated their angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity in vitro and hypotensive effect in vivo. Three ACE inhibitory peptides were isolated and identified as IPPAYTK, LVLPGELAK, and TFQGPPHGIQVER, and their inhibitory IC₅₀ values were 23.5, 184.0, and 3.4 μM, respectively. We then investigated the effect of gastrointestinal digestion on ACE inhibitory activity. We detected almost two times the ACE inhibitory activity of the peptide LVLPGELAK following simulated digestion than prior to digestion. LVLPGE and LAK, two novel peptides exhibiting high ACE inhibitory activity, were discovered following digestion and possessed IC₅₀ values of 13.5 and 48.0 μM, respectively. The hypotensive effect of the peptides was assessed after oral administration to spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs). We found that LVLPGE and LAK demonstrated a significant hypotensive effect in vivo. Protein from broccoli may thus constitute a potential antihypertensive peptide source.

Encapsulation of Antihypertensive Peptides from Whey Proteins and Their Releasing in Gastrointestinal Conditions

Antihypertensive peptide fraction from whey protein hydrolysate <3 kDa (measured as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity %) was isolated and encapsulated into three composite materials: alginate-collagen, alginate Arabic gum, and alginate-gelatin. The release behavior of peptide fraction from capsules was analyzed according to the encapsulation material efficiency, the characteristics of the capsules, and the released antihypertensive peptides during gastrointestinal digestion. The highest encapsulation efficiency was found in capsules of alginate Arabic gum (95%). In this case, the released peptides incremented their ACE activity (85%) after the digestion process, with respect to the initial ACE activity (74%). Whey antihypertensive fraction revealed five peptide sequences; however, other amino acid sequences were released from digested capsules. Protein databases confirmed some antihypertensive sequences indicating the peptides content from β-Lg and α-La. Consequently, new peptides could be revealed from whey antihypertensive fraction.

Antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-hyperglycemic, and antimicrobial activity of aqueous extracts from twelve native plants of the Yucatan coast

Looking for a biotechnical potential, aqueous extracts of leaves of 12 native species used in the Mayan traditional medicine of the coastal dune and mangrove of Yucatan (Mexico) were selected to evaluate their biological activities. Rhizophora mangle and Manilkara zapota showed the highest free radical scavenging activity (3.94 ± 0.19 and 6.42 ± 0.32 μg/mL, respectively), and the highest antihypertensive activity was obtained from Solanum donianum (0.38 μg/mL). The anti-hyperglycemic activity of these species was also tested; the highest activities were registered with R. mangle. The antimicrobial activity of Malvaviscus arboreus, S. donianum, M. zapota, and R. mangle at 10% (w/v) was positive against six human pathogenic bacteria and Bonellia macrocarpa against one pathogenic fungus. Solanum donianum, M. zapota, B. macrocarpa, and R. mangle were positive against two pathogenic plant fungi. These results show that the aqueous extracts of five native plants of the Yucatan coast have potential as antioxidants, ACE inhibitors, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, and as antimicrobials, which make their exploration for utilization in the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries a possibility.

Ciliotherapy: Remote Control of Primary Cilia Movement and Function by Magnetic Nanoparticles

Patients with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are characterized with uncontrolled hypertension. Hypertension in PKD is a ciliopathy, an abnormal function and/or structure of primary cilia. Primary cilia are cellular organelles with chemo and mechanosensory roles. In the present studies, we designed a cilia-targeted (CT) delivery system to deliver fenoldopam specifically to the primary cilia. We devised the iron oxide nanoparticle (NP)-based technology for ciliotherapy. Live imaging confirmed that the CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs specifically targeted primary cilia in cultured cells in vitro and vascular endothelia in vivo. Importantly, the CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs enabled the remote control of the movement and function of a cilium with an external magnetic field, making the nonmotile cilium exhibit passive movement. The ciliopathic hearts displayed hypertrophy with compromised functions in left ventricle pressure, stroke volume, ejection fraction, and overall cardiac output because of prolonged hypertension. The CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs significantly improved cardiac function in the ciliopathic hypertensive models, in which the hearts also exhibited arrhythmia, which was corrected with the CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs. Intraciliary and cytosolic Ca²⁺ were increased when cilia were induced with fluid flow or magnetic field, and this served as a cilia-dependent mechanism of the CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs. Fenoldopam-alone caused an immediate decrease in blood pressure, followed by reflex tachycardia. Pharmacological delivery profiles confirmed that the CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs were a superior delivery system for targeting cilia more specifically, efficiently, and effectively than fenoldopam-alone. The CT-Fe₂O₃-NPs altered the mechanical properties of nonmotile cilia, and these nano-biomaterials had enormous clinical potential for ciliotherapy. Our studies further indicated that ciliotherapy provides a possibility toward personalized medicine in ciliopathy patients.

Formulation and performance of Irbesartan nanocrystalline suspension and granulated or bead-layered dried powders - Part I

Nanocrystalline suspensions offer a promising approach to improve the dissolution rate of BCS Class II/IV drugs and hence oral bioavailability. Irbesartan (crystalline Form B), a poorly soluble drug substance was chosen as a model compound for the study. The objectives of the study were to formulate Irbesartan nanocrystalline suspension via media milling, study the effects of process and formulation variables on particle size reduction, and evaluate bead layering or spray granulation as drying processes. A Design of Experiment approach was utilized to understand the impact of formulation variables on particle size reduction via media milling. Drug concentration and type of stabilizer were found to be significant in particle size reduction. Optimized Irbesartan nanocrystalline suspension (i.e. at 10% w/w with 1% w/w poloxamer 407) showed superior in vitro dissolution profile compared to unmilled suspension. Optimized Irbesartan nanocrystalline suspension was converted into dried powders either by bead layering (with microcrystalline cellulose) or by spray granulation (either with mannitol or microcrystalline cellulose). DSC and PXRD studies revealed that Irbesartan remained crystalline post drying. Microcrystalline cellulose beads layered with Irbesartan nanocrystals showed about 65% drug dissolution within the first 10 min of dissolution study. Mannitol granules containing Irbesartan nanocrystals were fast dissolving (i.e. >90% drug dissolution within 10 min) compared to microcrystalline cellulose granules (i.e. approx. 46% drug dissolution within 10 min). Irbesartan nanocrystalline suspension had the fastest dissolution rates (i.e. >90% drug dissolution in two minutes) followed by mannitol-based granules containing dried Irbesartan nanocrystals (i.e. >90% drug dissolution in ten minutes).

Secondary metabolite profiling, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory potential and in vitro inhibitory activities of Nardostachys jatamansi on key enzymes linked to hyperglycemia, hypertension and cognitive disorders

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nardostachys jatamansi (D. Don) DC., 'Spikenard' or 'Jatamansi', a highly valued, aromatic herb from alpine Himalayas has a long history of use as ethnomedicine and dietary supplements in Ayurveda, Unani and Chinese system of medicine since Vedic ages (1000-800 BC). In Ayurveda and traditional system of medicine, the species is used as stimulant, sedative, brain tonic or mind rejuvenator, antidiabetic, cardio tonic, and in the treatment of various neurological disorders such as insomnia, epilepsy, hysteria, anxiety and depression. It is considered as Sattvic herb in Ayurveda and is now commercially marketed either as single or poly-herbal formulations by many companies in national and international markets.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The species has become threatened in its natural habitats due to over exploitation and illegal trade of its rhizomes for drug preparation in herbal and pharmaceutical industries. Considering the increasing demand and tremendous medicinal importance of this threatened plant species, a detailed study was undertaken to evaluate its antioxidant potential, secondary metabolite profiling, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory potential and in vitro enzyme inhibitory activities on key enzymes linked to hyperglycemia, hypertension and cognitive disorders in different plant parts of wild and in vitro-raised plants with respect to different solvent systems for its sustainable utilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-cholinesterase activity of leaves and rhizome of wild and cultured plant extracts was investigated against both acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes. In vitro anti-hyperglycemic (α-amylase and PTP1B), anti-hypertensive (angiotensin-converting enzyme), anti-tyrosinase and anti-inflammatory potential (5-lipoxygenase and hyaluronidase) of different plant parts of wild and in vitro-raised plants with respect to different solvent systems were also evaluated. In vitro cytotoxic effect of rootstock extracts of wild and in vitro-derived plants were against cancer (HCT-116, MCF-7 and OE33) and two normal (HEK and MEF) cell lines. Secondary metabolite profiling of rhizome segments of wild and in vitro-derived plants was carried out by quantitative gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

RESULTS

In vitro-raised plantlets showed comparative higher yield of various secondary metabolites with a significantly high antioxidant activity as compared to the wild plants. Methanolic rootstock extracts of both wild and in vitro-derived plants of N. jatamansi exhibited significant AChE (IC₅₀ 36.46 ± 2.1 and 31.18 ± 2.6 µg/ml, respectively) and BuChE (IC₅₀ 64.6 ± 3.5 and 60.12 ± 3.6 µg/ml, respectively) inhibitory potential as compared to standard inhibitor galanthamine (IC₅₀ 0.94 ± 0.03 and 4.45 ± 0.5 µg/ml). Methanolic rootstock extract of in vitro-derived plants showed significant α-amylase (IC₅₀ 90.69 ± 2.1 µg/ml), PTP1B (IC₅₀ 24.56 ± 0.8 µg/ml), angiotensin-converting enzyme (IC₅₀ 42.5 ± 3.6 µg/ml) and tyrosinase (IC₅₀ 168.12 ± 3.6 µg/ml) inhibitory potential as compared to standard acarbose (IC₅₀ 52.36 ± 3.1 µg/ml), ursolic acid (IC₅₀ 5.24 ± 0.8 µg/ml), captopril (IC₅₀ 32.36 ± 2.5 µg/ml) and kojic acid (IC₅₀ = 54.44 ± 2.3 µg/ml). Both the methanolic rootstock and leaf extracts of tissue culture-derived plants exhibited promising anti-5-LOX and anti-hyaluronidase activities against the known inhibitor of 5-LOX and hyaluronidase. Furthermore, methanolic rootstock extracts of both wild and in vitro-derived plants exhibited promising cytotoxic effects to HCT-116, MCF-7 and OE33 cell lines as compared to the normal HEK and MEF after 12 h of treatment. Secondary metabolite profiling of wild and in vitro-derived plants by quantitative GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of different classes of terpenoids and phenolic acids might be responsible for its effective biological activities.

CONCLUSION

In vitro-derived plants revealed a substantial anti-cholinesterases, anti-hyperglycemic anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and anti-tyrosinase potential with higher yield of various bioactive metabolites and significantly higher antioxidant activity which substantially explain medicinal importance of N. jatamansi in traditional medicine, used for centuries in different Ayurvedic formulations. The present findings suggest that cultured plants could be a promising alternative for the production of bioactive metabolites with comparative biological activities to the wild plants.