Traditional herbs: a remedy for cardiovascular disorders

Protective effects of myrrh essential oil on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, Nrf2/HO-1 and apoptotic pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myrrh, a traditional remedy, is the stem resinous exudate of Commiphora molmol Engler (Burseraceae). The aromatic yellowish-brown oleoresin has a long history in folk and traditional medicine, in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Severe universal concern attributable to the high mortality is Myocardial Infarction (MI). Acute administration of Isoproterenol (ISO) is an established animal model to induce myocardial injury.

OBJECTIVE

The existing animal study was outlined to inspect the actions of Myrrh essential oil on cardiac functional, antioxidant status, apoptotic and inflammatory deviations in isoproterenol induced MI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Normal and Myrrh control animals were administered normal saline and Myrrh essential oil for thirty days orally, respectively. On the 29th and 30th day, the animals were injected by saline (s.c.). In the ISO control, the animals were administered saline orally for 30 days and then confronted with ISO (85 mg/kg s.c.) on 29th and 30th days. In the Myrrh Groups (IV and V), the animals were treated with Myrrh essential oil (50 and 100 mg/k) respectively for 30 days and injected with ISO (85 mg/kg, s.c.) on 29th and 30th days.

RESULTS

Animals experienced MI displayed functional blood pressure deviations, intensification in the heart to body weight ratio, myocytes indicative markers (CK-MB, CPK, LDH, cTnT, cTnI), lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1, apoptotic markers (Caspase 3,9), and inflammatory indicators. Conversely, animals pre-treated with Myrrh revealed obliteration of those elevations triggered by ISO induction, diminished elevated biochemical values and improved heart function.

CONCLUSION

Myrrh abstain effective cardio-protective action in MI model through improving the oxidative condition with myocytes and abolishing apoptotic as well as inflammatory responses.

Antiplatelet and Antithrombotic Effects of Epimedium koreanum Nakai

Background and Objective. Epimedium koreanum Nakai is a medicinal plant known for its health beneficial effects on impotence, arrhythmia, oxidation, aging, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. However, there is no report available that shows its effects on platelet functions. Here, we elucidated antiplatelet and antithrombotic effects of ethyl acetate fraction of E. koreanum. Methodology. We analyzed the antiplatelet properties using standard in vitro and in vivo techniques, such as light transmission aggregometry, scanning electron microscopy, intracellular calcium mobilization measurement, dense granule secretion, and flow cytometry to assess integrin α_IIbβ₃ activation, clot retraction, and Western blot, on washed platelets. The antithrombotic effects of E. koreanum were assessed by arteriovenous- (AV-) shunt model in rats, and its effects on hemostasis were analyzed by tail bleeding assay in mice. Key Results. E. koreanum inhibited platelet aggregation in agonist-stimulated human and rat washed platelets, and it also reduced calcium mobilization, ATP secretion, and TXB2 formation. Fibrinogen binding, fibronectin adhesion, and clot retraction by attenuated integrin α_IIbβ₃-mediated inside-out and outside-in signaling were also decreased. Reduced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Akt, PLCγ2, and Src was observed. Moreover, the fraction inhibited thrombosis. HPLC results revealed that the fraction predominantly contained icariin. Conclusion and Implications. E. koreanum inhibited platelet aggregation and thrombus formation by attenuating calcium mobilization, ATP secretion, TXB2 formation, and integrin α_IIbβ₃ activation. Therefore, it may be considered as a potential candidate to treat and prevent platelet-related cardiovascular disorders.

Phytotherapy for Cardiovascular Disease: A Bench-to-Bedside Approach

At present, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and global trends suggest that this panorama will persist or worsen in the near future. Thus, optimization of treatment strategies and the introduction of novel therapeutic alternatives for CVD represent key objectives in contemporary biomedical research. In recent years, phytotherapy-defined as the therapeutic use of whole or minimally modified plant components-has ignited large scientific interest, with a resurgence of abundant investigation on a wide array of medicinal herbs (MH) for CVD and other conditions. Numerous MH have been observed to intervene in the pathophysiology of CVD via a myriad of molecular mechanisms, including antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, and other beneficial properties, which translate into the amelioration of three essential aspects of the pathogenesis of CVD: Dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Although the preclinical data in this scenario is very rich, the true clinical impact of MH and their purported mechanisms of action is less clear, as large-scale robust research in this regard is in relatively early stages and faces important methodological challenges. This review offers a comprehensive look at the most prominent preclinical and clinical evidence currently available concerning the use of MH in the treatment of CVD from a bench-to-bedside approach.

Anti-anxiety properties of selected medicinal plants

Exploration of new drugs targeting anxiety treatment is a major concern worldwide. Medicinal plants are being used as a potential source of novel drugs for anxiety disorders. The objective of this review is to provide information about the healing outcomes of anxiety treatment with natural products. Valeriana officinalis, Citrus aurantium, Commelina benghalensis, Achyranthes aspera, Mimosa pudica, Achillea millefolium, Nymphaea alba, Leonurus cardiac, Camellia sinensis, Turnera aphrodisiaca, Crataegus oxyacantha and Piper methysticum showed promising effects on anxiety in animal models. In clinical studies, passion flower, kava, valerian, St John's wort, and ashwagandha showed the most positive results. More studies are needed for the exploration of the anti-anxiety of medicinal plants. In drugs derived from natural sources have explored many components that are playing an essential role in curing anxiety disorders and associated complications.

Herbal therapy as a promising approach for regulation on lipid profiles: A review of molecular aspects

Impaired lipid profile is defined as abnormal plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. This disease state is associated with the development and progression of various disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and acute myocardial infarction. Globally, all of these disorders are related to a significant rate of death. Therefore, finding a suitable approach for the prevention and treatment of lipid profile-related disorders is in the spotlight. Recently, herbal therapy has been considered a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of hyperlipidemia or its related disorders due to its safety and efficacy. Hereby, we address the potential benefits of some of these herbal compounds on different aspects of lipid profile and its abnormalities with a special focus on their underlying mechanisms. Using herbal products, such as teas and mushrooms, or their derivatives, Rosmarinus officinalis Linn, Curcuma longa, Green tea, Lippia triphylla, Lippia citriodora, Plantago asiatica L, Vine tea, and Grifola frondosa have been proved to exert several therapeutic impacts on lipid profile and its related disorders, and we would provide a brief review on them in this literature.

The Potential Properties of Natural Compounds in Cardiac Stem Cell Activation: Their Role in Myocardial Regeneration

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which include congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and many other cardiac disorders, cause about 30% of deaths globally; representing one of the main health problems worldwide. Among CVDs, ischemic heart diseases (IHDs) are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. The onset of IHDs is essentially due to an unbalance between the metabolic demands of the myocardium and its supply of oxygen and nutrients, coupled with a low regenerative capacity of the heart, which leads to great cardiomyocyte (CM) loss; promoting heart failure (HF) and myocardial infarction (MI). To date, the first strategy recommended to avoid IHDs is prevention in order to reduce the underlying risk factors. In the management of IHDs, traditional therapeutic options are widely used to improve symptoms, attenuate adverse cardiac remodeling, and reduce early mortality rate. However, there are no available treatments that aim to improve cardiac performance by replacing the irreversible damaged cardiomyocytes (CMs). Currently, heart transplantation is the only treatment being carried out for irreversibly damaged CMs. Hence, the discovery of new therapeutic options seems to be necessary. Interestingly, recent experimental evidence suggests that regenerative stem cell medicine could be a useful therapeutic approach to counteract cardiac damage and promote tissue regeneration. To this end, researchers are tasked with answering one main question: how can myocardial regeneration be stimulated? In this regard, natural compounds from plant extracts seem to play a particularly promising role. The present review will summarize the recent advances in our knowledge of stem cell therapy in the management of CVDs; focusing on the main properties and potential mechanisms of natural compounds in stimulating and activating stem cells for myocardial regeneration.

The Anti-inflammatory Potential of Selected Plant-derived Compounds in Respiratory Diseases

Inflammation plays a major role in chronic airway diseases like asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the worsening of the lung function resulting in worsening symptoms. The inflammatory process is very complexed, therefore the strategies for developing an effective treatment for inflammatory airway diseases would benefit from the use of natural substances. Plant products have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties on various lung disease models and numerous natural plant agents have successfully been used to treat inflammation. Naturally occurring substances may exert some anti-inflammatory effects by modulating some of the inflammatory pathways. These agents have been used in different cultures for thousands of years and have proven to be relatively safe. Parthenolide, apocynin, proanthocyanidins, and boswellic acid present different mechanisms of actions - among others, through NF-kB or NADPH oxidase inhibition, therefore showing a wide range of applications in various inflammatory diseases. Moreover, some of them have also antioxidant properties. This review provides an overview of the anti-inflammatory effects of some of the natural agents and illustrates their great potential as sources of drugs to cover an extensive range of pharmacological effects.

Antibacterial Activity of Tris NaCl and PBS Buffer Protein Extract of Cassia fistula, Saccharum officinarum, Albizia lebbeck and Cymbopogon citrates Against Bacterial Strains

Medicinal plants are gaining popularity over synthetic medicines because antibiotic resistance demands the alternative source of medication. In the present research, the crude protein extraction of 4 medicinal plants Cassia fistula, Saccharum officinarum, Albizia lebbeck and Cymbopogon citrates was carried out. Crude protein extraction was done by 2 different buffers i.e. Tris NaCl buffer and PBS buffer. Protein confirmation was done by Bradford assay in the spectrophotometer. Antibacterial potential was checked and compared against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Neisseria gonorrhoea, Bacillus cereus and Proteus mirabilis. Antibacterial assay was performed by disc diffusion method, agar well method and zones of inhibition were calculated. The study results indicated that Tris NaCl extracts' antimicrobial potential is higher than that of the PBS buffer. On disc diffusion method the Tris NaCl buffer extracts of Cymbopogon citrates showed maximum zone of inhibition 11 mm and 9 mm against Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus respectively and control chloramphenicol showed maximum zone of inhibition 26 mm against Bacillus subtilis. Cassia fistula showed maximum zone of inhibition of 7 mm against Bacillus cereus while Saccharum officinarum and Albizia lebbeck didn't show the any antibacterial activity. On the other hand, Protein extracts from PBS buffer didn't show zone of inhibition against any bacteria. Only Albizia lebbeck showed minute zone of inhibition against Neisseria gonorrhea. On well diffusion method, Cassia fistula Tris NaCl protein extract showed the maximum zone of inhibition 20 mm and 18 mm against Proteus mirabilis and Bacillus subtilis respectively. While Albizia lebbeck PBS protein extract showed the maximum zone of inhibition 19 mm and 17 mm against Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus. The results revealed that the protein extract of Albizia lebbeck, Cymbopogon citrates and Cassia fistula can be used tosynthesize antimicrobial drugs to treat the bacterial infections.

Effect of herbal formulation intake on health indices in albino Wistar rat model

Dyslipidemia management activity of ginger-, garlic-, and lemon-based herbal mixture was tested as paste and herbal extract in hypercholesterolemic adult male albino rats. Atherogenic diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in rats was treated by supplementing the diet with 2.5% herbal paste (4.2 g/kg b.w.) or 2.5 ml oral gavage (20 ml/kg b.w.) of liquid herbal extract daily for 42 days. Hematological and serological outcomes of herbal formulation feeding were compared with the cholesterol-fed positive control and normal control. The results suggest the significant (p < .05) inhibitory properties of herbal paste and liquid extracts against dyslipidemia showing 31%-37%, 62%-68%, and 40%-56% lower levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), respectively. Treating cholesterol-fed animals with herbal paste and extract significantly (p < .05) increased total protein (5-5.5 g/dl) and serum albumin (3.7-4.2 g/dl) concentration as compared to the normal control. Contrary to significant hypocholesterolemic activity, higher serum total bilirubin levels, that is, 0.70 mg/dl, were observed in rats subchronically exposed to herbal paste and liquid extracts. Nonsignificant (p > .05) impact of herbal formula feeding was observed on hematological indices except lymphocyte counts, that is, 93% in rats fed on herbal paste. The results validate conventional hypocholesterolemic claims associated with ginger-, garlic-, and lemon-based herbal formulations; however, deeper insight into their dose-dependent response in hypercholesterolemia is necessitated to rule out the toxicological impact on the consumer.

Co-occurrence of mycotoxins, aflatoxin biosynthetic precursors, and Aspergillus metabolites in garlic (Allium sativum L) marketed in Zaria, Nigeria

Multi-mycotoxin analysis of 72 samples of garlic bulbs sold in Zaria markets was carried out using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. The results indicated the presence of seven major mycotoxins, including aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁), ochratoxin A (OTA), and the fumonisins B₁, B₂, B₃, B₄, and B₆, at different levels of contamination. AFB1 and OTA were detected in 1 of the 72 samples (1.4%) with median concentrations of 5.48 and 12.3 µg/kg, respectively. FB₁ and FB₂ were detected in 77% and 100% of the analysed samples, with median concentrations of 401 µg/kg and 491 µg/kg, respectively. The observed levels of AFB₁, OTA, FB₁, and FB₂ were above the EU maximum limit in herbal products. Sterigmatocystin (STC), an AFB₁ biosynthetic precursor, was present in all tested samples. The contamination level of mycotoxins and Aspergillus metabolites of marketed garlic in the study area is of public health concern.

A Review of Medicinal Plants in Cardiovascular Disorders: Benefits and Risks

Many cultivated and wild plants are used for the management of various diseases, specifically renal and hepatic diseases and those of the immune and cardiovascular systems. In China, medicinal plants from ancient to modern history have been used in patients with angina pectoris, congestive heart failure (CHF), systolic hypertension, arrhythmia, and venous insufficiency for centuries. The latest increase in the fame of natural products and alternative medicine has revived interest in conventional remedies that have been consumed in the management of CVD. The cardio-protective properties of the various herbs are possibly due to their anti-oxidative, antihypercholesterolemic, anti-ischemic activities, and inhibition of platelet aggregation that reduce the risk of CVD. Ethno-pharmacological and biological properties of these plants are explored, based upon published scientific literature. Although a majority of medicinal plants having a biological mechanism that linked with CVD management, to date, published literature pertaining to their promising scientific properties are still poorly understood. Compared with synthetic medicines, alternative medicines do not need scientific studies before their formal approval from the government sector and due to this purpose; their safety, as well as efficacy, still remain elusive. Taken together, we addressed all accessible evidence on alternative medicines commonly consumed in CVD management. Our comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature indicated that many TCMs are available and valuable herbal medication would be the best alternative for the management of CVD as a complementary therapy. Furthermore, practitioners should always discuss possible benefits-risks of alternative medicines with patients so that they are aware of the consumption of alternative medications.

Effects of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) on cardio-metabolic outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent evidence indicates a beneficial effect of Melissa officinalis (MO) intake on several chronic diseases. However, the effects of MO intake have not yet been systematically reviewed. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effect of MO intake and focused on several cardiometabolic outcomes. MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for MO-RCTs evaluating cardiometabolic outcomes. Random-effects meta-analyses estimated the pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) between intervention and control groups. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias in RCTs. Seven RCTs were finally deemed eligible. MO intake was associated with a reduced total cholesterol (TC) (SMD: -0.26; 95% CI: -0.52, -0.01; I² = 13.7%; k = 6) and a reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) (SMD: -0.56; 95% CI: -0.85, -0.27; I² = 00.0%; k = 3). MO intake was not associated with statistically significant changes in triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, diastolic blood pressure, high sensitivity c-reactive protein levels, fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, insulin or high-density lipoprotein levels. No serious adverse events were reported. The risk of bias was high in a considerable amount of studies. Our study suggests that MO is a safe supplement with beneficial effects on TC and SBP. However, the findings of our study must be seen in the light of major limitations such as a low number of included studies and a serious risk of bias. High-quality RCTs are needed for firm conclusions concerning the effects of MO on cardiometabolic outcomes.

The Potential Therapeutic Value of Medicinal Plants in the Management of Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a prevalent, multifactorial and complex disease that is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes and other major cardiovascular complications. The rise in the global prevalence of MetS has been attributed to genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. The adoption of sedentary lifestyles that are characterized by low physical activity and the consumption of high-energy diets contributes to MetS development. Current management criteria for MetS risk factors involve changes in lifestyle and the use of pharmacological agents that target specific biochemical pathways involved in the metabolism of nutrients. Pharmaceutical drugs are usually expensive and are associated with several undesirable side effects. Alternative management strategies of MetS risk factors involve the use of medicinal plants that are considered to have multiple therapeutic targets and are easily accessible. Medicinal plants contain several different biologically active compounds that provide health benefits. The impact of phytochemicals present in local medicinal plants on sustainable health and well-being of individuals has been studied for many years and found to involve a plethora of complex biochemical, metabolic, and physiological mechanisms. While some of these phytochemicals are the basis of mainstream prescribed drugs (e.g., metformin, reserpine, quinine, and salicin), there is a need to identify more medicinal plants that can be used for the management of components of MetS and to describe their possible mechanisms of action. In this review, we assess the potential health benefits of South African ethnomedicinal plants in protecting against the development of health outcomes associated with MetS. We aim to provide the state of the current knowledge on the use of medicinal plants and their therapeutically important phytochemicals by discussing the current trends, with critical examples from recent primary references of how medicinal plants are being used in South African rural and urban communities.

A Review on the Potential Use of Medicinal Plants From Asteraceae and Lamiaceae Plant Family in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, and its rate of mortality is rising annually. In accordance with the current condition, studies on medicinal plants upon their activity on cardiovascular diseases are often being encouraged to be used in cardiovascular disease management, due to the availability of medicinal values in certain dedicated plants. This review was conducted based on two plant families, which are Asteraceae and Lamiaceae, to study on their action in cardiovascular disease relieving activities, to review the relationship between the phytochemistry of Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families and their effect on cardiovascular diseases, and to study their toxicology. The medicinal plants from these plant family groups are collected based on their effects on the mechanisms that affect the cardiovascular-related disease which are an antioxidant activity, anti-hyperlipidemic or hypocholesterolemia, vasorelaxant effect, antithrombotic action, and diuresis effect. In reference to various studies, the journals that conducted in vivo or in vitro experiments, which were used to prove the specific mechanisms, are included in this review. This is to ensure that the scientific value and the phytochemicals of the involved plants can be seen based on their activity. As a result, various plant species from both Asteraceae and Lamiaceae plant family have been identified and collected based on their study that has proven their effectiveness and uses in cardiovascular diseases. Most of the plants have an antioxidant effect, followed by anti-hyperlipidemia, vasorelaxant, antithrombotic, and diuretic effect from the most available to least available studies, respectively. These are the mechanisms that contribute to various cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Further studies can be conducted on these plant species by identifying their ability and capability to be developed into a new drug or to be used as a medicinal plant in treating various cardiovascular diseases.

Aberrant canonical Wnt signaling: Phytochemical based modulation

BACKGROUND

Wnt signaling pathway plays a major role during development like gastrulation, axis formation, organ development and organization of body plan development. Wnt signaling aberration has been linked with various disease conditions like osteoporosis, colon cancer, hair follicle tumor, Leukemia, and Alzheimer's disease. Phytochemicals like flavonoid, glycosides, polyphenols, have been reported to directly target the markers of Wnt signaling in different disease models.

PURPOSE

The study deals in detail about the different phytochemical targeting key players of Wnt signaling pathway in diseases like Cancer, Osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease. We have focused on the Pharmacological basis of disease alleviation by phytochemical specifically targeting the Wnt signaling markers in this study.

METHODS

The study focused on the published articles from the preclinical rodent and invitro cell line studies related to Wnt signaling and Phytochemicals related to Cancer, Alzheimer's and Osteoporosis. The electronic databases Scopus, Web of Science and Pubmed database were used for the systematic search of literatures from 2005 up to 2019 using keywords Canonical Wnt signaling pathway, Cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Osteoporosis, Phytochemicals. The focus was to identify the target specific modulation of Wnt signaling mediated by phytochemicals.

RESULTS

Approximately 30 phytochemicals of different class have been identified to modulate Wnt signaling pathway acting through Axin, β-catenin translocation, GSK-3β, AKT, Wif-1 in various experimental studies. The down regulation of Wnt signaling is observed in Cancer mostly colorectal cancer, breast cancer mediated through mutations in APC and Axin genes. Different class of Phytochemicals such as flavonoid, glycosides, polyphenol, alkaloids etc. have been found to target Wnt signaling markers and alleviate Cancer. Similarly, Up regulation of Wnt signaling has been reported in Osteoporosis and neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer's disease.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the possibility of the Phytochemicals to target Wnt markers and its potential to either activate or deactivate the Wnt signaling pathway. It also describes the challenges in proper targeting of Wnt signaling and the potential risk and consequences of either up regulation or down regulation of the signaling pathway. This article highlights the possibility of Wnt signaling pathway as a therapeutic option in different diseases.

Ulmus parvifolia Modulates Platelet Functions and Inhibits Thrombus Formation by Regulating Integrin αIIbβ3 and cAMP Signaling

Background

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is increasing at a high rate, and the available treatment options, sometimes, have complications which necessitates the need to develop safer and efficacious approaches. Ethnomedicinal applications reportedly reduce CVD risk. Ulmus parvifolia Jacq. (Ulmaceae) commonly known as Chinese Elm or Lacebark Elm, is native to China, Japan, and Korea. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties, but its anti-platelet properties have not yet been elucidated.

Purpose

To investigate the pharmacological anti-platelet and anti-thrombotic effects of U. parvifolia bark extract.

Study Design and Methods

Human and rat washed platelets were prepared; light transmission aggregometry and scanning electron microscopy was performed to assess platelet aggregation and the change in platelet shape, respectively. Intracellular calcium mobilization, ATP release, and thromboxane-B2 production were also measured. Integrin α_IIbβ₃ activation was analyzed in terms of fibrinogen binding, fibronectin adhesion, and clot retraction. The expression of MAPK, Src, and PI3K/Akt pathway proteins was examined. Cyclic nucleotide signaling pathway was evaluated via cAMP elevation and VASP phosphorylation. Anti-thrombotic activity of the extract was evaluated in vivo using an arteriovenous shunt rat model, whereas its effect on hemostasis in mice was assessed via bleeding time assay.

Results

U. parvifolia extract significantly inhibited human and rat platelet aggregation in a dose-dependent manner along with inhibition of calcium mobilization, dense granule secretion, and TxB2 production. Integrin α_IIbβ₃ mediated inside-out and outside-in signaling events, as evidenced by the inhibition of fibrinogen binding, fibronectin adhesion, and clot retraction. The extract significantly reduced phosphorylation of Src, MAPK (ERK, JNK, and p38^MAPK), and PI3K/Akt pathway proteins. Cyclic-AMP levels were elevated in U. parvifolia-treated platelets, while PKAαβγ and VASP^ser157 phosphorylation was enhanced. U. parvifolia reduced thrombus weight in rats and moderately increased bleeding time in mice.

Conclusion

U. parvifolia modulates platelet responses and inhibit thrombus formation by regulating integrin α_IIbβ₃ mediated inside-out and outside-in signaling events and cAMP signaling pathway.

Rumex acetosa modulates platelet function and inhibits thrombus formation in rats

Background

The Rumex acetosa has been used in medicinal treatment, food technology and phytotherapeutics in Eastern Asia and many other countries. However, its effect on cardiovascular system and antiplatelet activity remained to be known. In this study, we examined the antiplatelet activity of R. acetosa in detailed manner to understand underlying mechanism.

Methods

To study this, whole blood was obtained from male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and aggregation of washed platelets measured using light transmission aggregometry. Intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) was measured using Fura-2/AM while ATP release evaluated by luminometer. Activation of integrin α_IIbβ₃ analyzed by flow cytometry and clot retraction. Furthermore, we studied the signaling pathways mediated by R. acetosa extract by western blot analysis.

Results

R. acetosa extract markedly inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation and ATP release in a dose-dependent manner. It also suppressed [Ca²⁺]_i mobilization, integrin α_IIbβ₃ activation and clot retraction. The extract significantly attenuated phosphorylation of the MAPK pathway (i.e., ERK1/2, JNK), MKK4, PI3K/Akt, and Src family kinase.

Conclusion

Taken together, this data suggests that R. acetosa extract exhibits anti-platelet activity via modulating MAPK, PI3K/Akt pathways, and integrin α_IIbβ₃-mediated inside-out and outside-in signaling, and it may protect against the development of platelet-related cardiovascular diseases.

Endothelium-Independent Vasodilatory Effects of Isodillapiolglycol Isolated from Ostericum citriodorum

Ostericum citriodorum is a plant with a native range in China used in herbal medicine for treating angina pectoris. In this study, we investigated the vasodilatory effects of isodillapiolglycol (IDG), which is one of the main ingredients isolated from O. citriodorum ethyl acetate extract, in Sprague–Dawley rat aortic rings, and measured intracellular Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_in) using a molecular fluo-3/AM probe. The results show that IDG dose-dependently relaxed endothelium-intact or -denuded aortic rings pre-contracted with noradrenaline (NE) or potassium chloride (KCl), and inhibited CaCl₂-induced contraction in high K⁺ depolarized aortic rings. Tetraethyl ammonium chloride (a Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channel blocker) or verapamil (an L-type Ca²⁺ channel blocker) significantly reduced the relaxation of IDG in aortic rings pre-contracted with NE. In vascular smooth muscle cells, IDG inhibited the increase in [Ca²⁺]_in stimulated by KCl in Krebs solution; likewise, IDG also attenuated the increase in [Ca²⁺]_in induced by NE or subsequent supplementation of CaCl₂. These findings demonstrate that IDG relaxes aortic rings in an endothelium-independent manner by reducing [Ca²⁺]_in, likely through inhibition of the receptor-gated Ca²⁺ channel and the voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel, and through opening of the Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channel.

Anti-platelet role of Korean ginseng and ginsenosides in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases prevail among modern societies and underdeveloped countries, and a high mortality rate has also been reported by the World Health Organization affecting millions of people worldwide. Hyperactive platelets are the major culprits in thrombotic disorders. A group of drugs is available to deal with such platelet-related disorders; however, sometimes, side effects and complications caused by these drugs outweigh their benefits. Ginseng and its nutraceuticals have been reported to reduce the impact of thrombotic conditions and improve cardiovascular health by antiplatelet mechanisms. This review provides (1) a comprehensive insight into the available pharmacological options from ginseng and ginsenosides (saponin and nonsaponin fractions) for platelet-originated cardiovascular disorders; (2) a discussion on the impact of specific functional groups on the modulation of platelet functions and how structural modifications among ginsenosides affect platelet activation, which may further provide a basis for drug design, optimization, and the development of ginsenoside scaffolds as pharmacological antiplatelet agents; (3) an insight into the synergistic effects of ginsenosides on platelet functions; and (4) a perspective on future research and the development of ginseng and ginsenosides as super nutraceuticals.

Allium Jesdianum Extract Improve Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatic Failure through Inhibition of Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress

Objectives

Allium jesdianum (Aj) is a medicinal plant that has highlighted pharmacological features. In this study, the effects of Aj extract were examined on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatic failure in rats.

Methods

Methanolic fraction of hydro-alcoholic extract of Aj was obtained by silica gel column chromatography method. Animals were randomly divided into four groups each containing six rats and treated by gavage as follows: the first and second groups received normal saline, the third and fourth groups were received with 50 and 100 mg/kg of Aj extract, respectively. After two consecutive weeks, the groups 2–4 were given a single dose of APAP (2 g/kg). After 48 hours, blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical and histological examinations.

Results

The findings of the study demonstrated that APAP caused a significant increase in ALT (P < 0.001), AST (P < 0.001), LDH (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001) serum levels, hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO; P < 0.001) and nitric oxide (NO; P < 0.001). In this regard, APAP led to the depletion of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC; P < 0.001), glutathione and total thiol groups (TTGs; P < 0.001), and structural change in the liver. In the Aj extract groups, a considerable improvement was found in the hepatic function alongside the histopathologic changes.

Conclusion

This investigation indicated that the influential effects of Aj extract in APAP-induced hepatic failure might depend on its effect on improving oxidant/antioxidant balance in hepatic tissue.

Fermented Garlic Ameliorates Hypercholesterolemia and Inhibits Platelet Activation

Dietary cholesterol augments the lipid profile and induces the production and activation of platelets, leading to the development of atherosclerosis with detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. Ethnomedicine and Mediterranean diets are natural and cost-effective approaches against several ailments including cardiovascular diseases. In addition, fermented foods have attracted interest due to their increased nutrient profile and enhanced bioavailability and efficacy. Garlic is known to reduce cholesterol and inhibit platelet activation. Therefore, we examined whether fermented garlic could effectively ameliorate the effects of hypercholesterolemia and platelet functions in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a hypercholesterolemic diet and treated with spirulina and fermented and nonfermented preparations of garlic for one month. Platelet aggregation and granule secretion were assessed to evaluate platelet activation. Analysis of the liver and kidney weights and lipid and enzymatic profiles of the serum and whole blood analysis was performed. The expression levels of SREBP-2, ACAT-2, and HMG-CoA were assessed by RT-PCR, while ACAT-1 and ACAT-2 were assessed by real-time PCR, and histological changes in the liver and adipose tissues were analyzed. Both fermented and nonfermented garlic inhibited platelet aggregation and granule secretion; however, fermented garlic exhibited a greater inhibitory effect. In comparison with nonfermented garlic, fermented garlic significantly reduced liver weight and triglyceride concentrations. Fermented garlic also markedly abrogated the detrimental effects of steatosis on liver and adipose tissues. We conclude that fermented garlic significantly improved the lipid profile and modulated platelet functions, thereby inhibiting atherosclerosis- and platelet-related cardiovascular disorders.

Effect of Ajwa Dates Consumption to Inhibit the Progression of Preeclampsia Threats on Mean Arterial Pressure and Roll-Over Test

Background

Preeclampsia is the major problem and the main leading cause of fetal and maternal mortality worldwide. The early prediction of preeclampsia in pregnant women is required to prevent the occurrence of preeclampsia. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) and roll-over test (ROT) are the combination of measurement which can be used to predict preeclampsia. On the contrary, Ajwa dates were reported to have an enormous activity which contributes to its role in improving health conditions. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of daily consumption of seven Ajwa dates on prevention of preeclampsia, through MAP and ROT changes.

Methods

Forty pregnant women (n = 40) were randomly assigned into the control group (n = 10) and the intervention group which received a daily intake of Ajwa dates (n = 30). The MAP and ROT were assessed before and after the 8-week intervention period.

Results

The intervention group showed the significant reduction in MAP and ROT following the 8-week intervention period (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Daily consumption of seven Ajwa dates has a remarkable potential to decrease the MAP and ROT in pregnant women at risk of developing preeclampsia, and thus, it can contribute to prevent the development of preeclampsia.

Transcriptomic Validation of the Protective Effects of Aqueous Bark Extract of Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) on Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy in Rats

Aqueous extract of the bark of Terminalia arjuna (TA) is used by a large population in the Indian subcontinent for treating various cardiovascular conditions. Animal experiments have shown its anti-atherogenic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-inflammatory effects. It has several bioactive ingredients with hemodynamic, ROS scavenging, and anti-inflammatory properties. Earlier we have done limited proteomic and transcriptomic analysis to show its efficacy in ameliorating cardiac hypertrophy induced by isoproterenol (ISO) in rats. In the present study we have used high-throughput sequencing of the mRNA from control and treated rat heart to further establish its efficacy. ISO (5 mg/kg/day s.c.) was administered in male adult rats for 14 days to induce cardiac hypertrophy. Standardized aqueous extract TA bark extract was administered orally. Total RNA were isolated from control, ISO, ISO + TA, and TA treated rat hearts and subjected to high throughput sequence analysis. The modulations of the transcript levels were then subjected to bio-informatics analyses using established software. Treatment with ISO downregulated 1,129 genes and upregulated 204 others. Pre-treatment with the TA bark extracts markedly restored that expression pattern with only 97 genes upregulated and 85 genes downregulated. The TA alone group had only 88 upregulated and 26 downregulated genes. The overall profile of expression in ISO + TA and TA alone groups closely matched with the control group. The genes that were modulated included those involved in metabolism, activation of receptors and cell signaling, and cardiovascular and other diseases. Networks associated with those genes included those involved in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix organization, integrin binding, inflammation, drug metabolism, redox metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and organization of myofibril. Overlaying of the networks in ISO and ISO_TA group showed that those activated in ISO group were mostly absent in ISO_TA and TA group, suggesting a global effect of the TA extracts. This study for the first time reveals that TA partially or completely restores the gene regulatory network perturbed by ISO treatment in rat heart; signifying its efficacy in checking ISO-induced cardiac hypertrophy.

Lifestyle of a Roman Imperial community: ethnobotanical evidence from dental calculus of the Ager Curensis inhabitants

BACKGROUND

The analysis of ancient calcified dental plaque is a powerful archaeobotanical method to elucidate the key role of the plants in human history.

METHODS

In this research, by applying both optic microscopy and gas chromatography mass spectrometry on this matrix, a detailed qualitative investigation for reconstructing the lifestyle of a Roman imperial community of the Ager Curensis (Sabina Tiberina, Central Italy) was performed.

RESULTS

The detection of animal micro-remains and molecules (e.g., hairs, feather barbules, markers of dairy products), starch granules of several cereals and legumes, pollen (e.g., Juglans regia L., Hedera sp. L.) and other plant micro-debris (e.g., trichome of Olea sp., hemp fibers), and phytochemicals (e.g., Brassicaceae, Lamiaceae herbs, Ferula sp., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., wine, and Humulus lupulus L.) in the dental calculus sample demonstrated that plant-derived foods were regularly consumed together with animal resources.

CONCLUSIONS

This nutritional plan, consistent with the information reported in ancient written texts, suggested that the studied population based its own subsistence on both agriculture and husbandry, probably also including beekeeping and hunting activities. All together, these results represent proofs for the comprehension of food habits, phytotherapeutic practices, and cultural traditions of one of the first Roman settlements in the Sabina Tiberina area.

Protective Effects of Phenylpropanoids and Phenylpropanoid-rich Essential Oils on the Cardiovascular System

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of global mortality with a tendency to increase due to population ageing as well as an increase in associated risk factors. Although current therapies improve survival rates, they are associated with several side effects, thus justifying the development of novel preventive and/or therapeutic approaches. In this way, plant metabolites such as essential oils have emerged as promising agents due to their biological effects.

OBJECTIVE

Bearing in mind that several essential oils are characterized by high amounts of phenylpropanoids, which may play a crucial role in the activity of these volatile extracts, a comprehensive and systematic review focusing on the cardiovascular effects of phenylpropanoid-rich essential oils is presented.

METHODS

Popular search engines including PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar were consulted and papers from 2000 onwards were selected. Non-volatile phenylpropanoids were not considered in this review.

RESULTS

A compilation of the current knowledge on this thematic pointed out beneficial effects for volatile phenylpropanoids namely hypotensive, vasorelaxant, antiplatelet aggregation, antidyslipidaemic and antidiabetic, as well as protective properties against ischemia/reperfusion injury and heart hypertrophy.

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of the protective effects of phenylpropanoids on the cardiovascular system is presented, thus paving the way towards future research on plant-based therapies for cardiovascular diseases.

Chemistry and Pharmacology of the Kazakh Crataegus Almaatensis Pojark: An Asian Herbal Medicine

Crataegus almaatensis, an endemic ornamental plant in Kazakhstan is used in popular medicine due to its cardiotonic properties. The most studied species of the same genus are commonly found in Europe, which shows the importance of having the Kazakh species validated via its chemical and pharmacological studies. High-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) operated under optimized conditions enabled an isolation of the three main compounds from the aqueous phase of the leaves ethanol extract, further identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), as quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside (quercitrin) (4.02% of the crude extract-CECa); quercetin 3-O-β-galactoside (hyperoside) (1.82% of CECa); kaempferol 3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (afzelin) (0.94% of CECa). The CECa, the aqueous phase of the crude extract (APCa) together with the isolates were evaluated for their vascular (vascular reactivity in human internal mammary artery-HIMA), anti-nociceptive (formalin-induced liking response and hot plate) and anti-inflammatory (subcutaneous air-pouch model-SAP) activities. CECa at the concentrations of 0.014 and 0.14 mg/mL significantly increased the maximum contractility response of HIMA to noradrenaline. The APCa CR curve (0.007–0.7 mg/mL) showed an intrinsic relaxation effect of the HIMA. APCa at the dose of 100 mg/kg i.p. significantly decreased the total leukocyte count and the IL-1β release in the SAP wash.

Do recent research studies validate the medicinal plants used in British Columbia, Canada for pet diseases and wild animals taken into temporary care?

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

There are insufficient safe and effective treatments for chronic pain in pets. In cases such as osteoarthritis there is no commercially available cure and veterinarians use NSAIDs to manage pain. Pet owners may have to plan for a lifetime of plant-based treatment for the conditions that lead to chronic pain in pets. Phytopharmacotherapies have the advantage of being less toxic, cheap or free, readily available, are more likely to be safe for long-term use and have the potential to reset the immune system to normal functioning.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the recently published medicinal plant research that matches unpublished data on ethnoveterinary medicines (EVM) used for pets in Canada (British Columbia) to see if the EVM data can provide a lead to the development of necessary drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 2003 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 participants who were organic farmers or holisitic medicinal/veterinary practitioners obtained using a purposive sample. A draft manual prepared from the data was then evaluated by participants at a participatory workshop that discussed the plant-based treatments. A copy of the final version of the manual was given to all research participants. In 2018, the recently published research matching the EVM data was reviewed to see if the EVM practices could serve as a lead for further research.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants are used to treat a range of conditions. The injuries treated in pets in British Columbia included abscesses (resulting from an initial injury), sprains and abrasions. Dogs were also treated with medicinal plants for rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and articular cartilage injuries. More than 40 plants were used. Anal gland problems were treated with Allium sativum L., Aloe vera L., Calendula officinalis L., Plantago major L., Ulmus fulva Michx., Urtica dioica L. and Usnea longissima Ach. Arctium lappa, Hydrangea arborescens and Lactuca muralis were used for rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain in pets. Asthma was treated with: Linum usitatissimum L., Borago officinalis L., Verbascum thapsus L., Cucurbita pepo L., Lobelia inflata L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Pets with heart problems were treated with Crataegus oxyacantha L., Cedronella canariensis (L.) Willd. ex Webb & Berth, Equisetum palustre L., Cypripedium calceolus L., Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex Lawson, Humulus lupulus L., Valeriana officinalis L., Lobelia inflata L., Stachys officinalis (L.) Trev., and Viscum album L. The following plants were used for epilepsy, motion sickness and anxiety- Avena sativa L., Valeriana officinalis, Lactuca muralis (L.) Fresen., Scutellaria lateriflora L., Satureja hortensis L., and Passiflora incarnata L. Plants used for cancer treatment included Phytolacca decandra, Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, Rumex acetosella, Arctium lappa, Ulmus fulva, Rheum palmatum, Frangula purshiana, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ulmus fulva, Althea officinalis, Rheum palmatum, Rumex crispus and Plantago psyllium. Trifolium pratense was used for tumours in the prostate gland. Also used were Artemisia annua, Taraxacum officinale and Rumex crispus. This review of plants used in EVM was possible because phytotherapy research of the plants described in this paper has continued because few new pharmaceutical drugs have been developed for chronic pain and because treatments like glucocorticoid therapy do not heal. Phytotherapuetic products are also being investigated to address the overuse of antibiotics. There have also been recent studies conducted on plant-based functional foods and health supplements for pets, however there are still gaps in the knowledge base for the plants Stillingia sylvatica, Verbascum thapsus, Yucca schidigera and Iris versicolor and these need further investigation.

A New Prenylated Isoflavonoid From Limonium leptophyllum

Phytochemical investigation of methanolic extract of Limonium leptophyllum (Plumbaginaceae), led to the isolation of 1 new isoflavonoid with a rare 5-membered dihydrofuran ring (1, leptoisoflavone A) and 8 known compounds. The known isolated compounds were identified as euchrenone b9 (2), auriculasin (3), kaempferol (4), avicularoside (5), myricetin-3-arabinoside (6), trans-N-feruloyltyramine (7), trans-N-caffeoyltyramine (8), and β-sitosterol (9). The crude methanolic extract exhibited moderate activity toward endocannabinoid receptors. Auriculasin (3) showed activity toward cannabinoid receptor type 1 (86.7% displacement with IC50 8.92 μM).

Schizonepeta tenuifolia inhibits collagen stimulated platelet function via suppressing MAPK and Akt signaling

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is increasing at a rapid pace in developed countries, and CVDs are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Natural products and ethnomedicine have been shown to reduce the risk of CVDs. Schizonepeta (S.) tenuifolia is a medicinal plant widely used in China, Korea, and Japan and is known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities. We hypothesized that given herbal plant exhibit pharmacological activities against CVDs, we specifically explored its effects on platelet function. Platelet aggregation was evaluated using standard light transmission aggregometry. Intracellular calcium mobilization was assessed using Fura-2/AM, and granule secretion (ATP release) was measured in a luminometer. Fibrinogen binding to integrin αⅡbβ3, was assessed using flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling molecules and activation of the protein kinase B (Akt) was assessed using Western blot assays. S. tenuifolia, extract potently and significantly inhibited platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, granule secretion, and fibrinogen binding to integrin αⅡbβ3. Moreover, all extracts significantly inhibited MAPK and Akt phosphorylation. S. tenuifolia extract inhibited platelet aggregation and granule secretion, and attenuated collagen mediated GPVI downstream signaling, indicating the potential therapeutic effects of these plant extracts on the cardiovascular system and platelet function. We suggest that S. tenuifolia extract may be a potent candidate to treat platelet-related CVDs and to be used as an antiplatelet and antithrombotic agent.

Advantageous Extraction, Cleanup, and UHPLC-MS/MS Detection of Patulin Mycotoxin in Dietary Supplements and Herbal Blends Containing Hawberry from Crataegus spp

Patulin (PAT) is a highly genotoxic mycotoxin still found as the common contaminant of various kinds of spoiled fruits and related commodities which are often endorsed as the health-enhancing products. Thus, a fast and convenient liquid-solid extraction followed by a solid-phase cleanup with the MycoSep®228 AflaPat multifunctional column was used for the highly efficient isolation of PAT with an average recovery of 112.7% from commercial dietary supplements and herbal blends formulated with dried hawberry. Analysis of the PAT content was carried out using gradient elution with a Synergi Polar C18 column (150 × 2 mm, 4 μm) and UHPLC system equipped with a mass spectrometer. PAT was detected in all (n=14) commercial single-component dietary supplements formulated with dried hawberry belonging to Crataegus monogyna and/or Crataegus laevigata. Similarly, PAT was detected in 67% of the studied multicomponent commercial herbal blends (n=6) that contained-in addition to hawberry-different amounts of apple, chokeberry, elderberry, hibiscus, or mallow. Moreover, the PAT content was determined in the hawberry collected from the mature wild hawthorn trees belonging to three botanical species, Crataegus monogyna Jacq., Crataegus laevigata (Poiret) DC, and Crataegus rhipidophylla Gand, growing in the recreational forest areas and in the law-protected state national forest park in Poland. In conclusion, to prevent PAT accumulation and reduce the health risk of consumers in globalizing markets, the implementation of improved cultivation/processing practices of hawthorn trees and hawberry as well as increased analytical control related to the presence of PAT in dietary supplements and herbal blends formulated with fresh, dried, or frozen hawberry should be urgently recommended.

Pharmacological Effect of Quercetin in Hypertension and Its Potential Application in Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension: Review of In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Studies

Since improving maternal and child health is a public health priority worldwide, the main aim of treatment of hypertension in pregnant women is to prevent complications during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. In consequence, much attention is paid to the use of antihypertensive drugs that can be used safely during pregnancy. Several side effects of methyldopa, which is currently the most commonly used antihypertensive drug in pregnant women, mean that the search for an effective and safe alternative still continues. Flavonoid compounds present in medicinal plants, vegetables, and fruits may be a promising source of new drugs. In this aspect, quercetin, a well-known flavonoid due to its antihypertensive action, may be considered a prototype for safe antihypertensive drugs. This review focuses on the selective activity of quercetin. Based on recent studies, a few problems were discussed, including (1) pathology of pregnancy-induced hypertension; (2) search for new pharmacological treatments of pregnancy-induced hypertension; (3) issues with the use of herbal extracts during pregnancy; (4) flavonoids as natural active chemical compounds; (5) quercetin: its action during pregnancy, in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities, clinical trials, and meta-analysis; (6) quercetin intake during pregnancy; (7) other natural compounds tested during pregnancy; (8) potential problems with the use of quercetin; (9) safety profile of quercetin. Various studies have shown a beneficial effect of quercetin on vascular endothelial function and its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity on cellular and tissue level. It is known that in animal models quercetin affects positively the development of embryo, fetus, and placenta. Because this flavonoid did not have teratogenic and abortive effect, it is generally recognized as safe. For this reason it should be appreciated and studied in the aspect of its potential use in the prevention and treatment of pregnancy-induced hypertension among women in this risk group.

The predictive utility of the plant phylogeny in identifying sources of cardiovascular drugs

CONTEXT

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death globally, responsible for over 17 million (31%) deaths in the world. Novel pharmacological interventions may be needed given the high prevalence of CVD.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to find potential new sources of cardiovascular (CV) drugs from phylogenetic and pharmacological analyses of plant species that have experimental and traditional CV applications in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reconstructed the molecular phylogeny of these plant species and mapped their pharmacological mechanisms of action on the phylogeny.

RESULTS

Out of 139 plant species in 71 plant families, seven plant families with 45 species emerged as phylogenetically important exhibiting common CV mechanisms of action within the family, as would be expected given their common ancestry: Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Rosaceae and Zingiberaceae. Apiaceae and Brassicaceae promoted diuresis and hypotension; Fabaceae and Lamiaceae had anticoagulant/thrombolytic effects; Apiaceae and Zingiberaceae were calcium channel blockers. Moreover, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Rosaceae and Zingiberaceae species were found to possess anti-atherosclerotic properties.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The phylogeny identified certain plant families with disproportionately more species, highlighting their importance as sources of natural products for CV drug discovery. Though there were some species that did not show the same mechanism within the family, the phylogeny predicts that these species may contain undiscovered phytochemistry, and potentially, the same bioactivity. Evolutionary pharmacology, as applied here, may guide and expedite our efforts in discovering sources of new CV drugs.

Preventive Effect of Garlic Oil and Its Organosulfur Component Diallyl-Disulfide on Cigarette Smoke-Induced Airway Inflammation in Mice

Garlic (Allium sativum) has traditionally been used as a medicinal food and exhibits various beneficial activities, such as antitumor, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, antiarthritic, and hypoglycemic activities. The aim of this study was to explore the preventive effect of garlic oil (GO) and its organosulfur component diallyl disulfide (DADS) on cigarette smoke (CS)-induced airway inflammation. Mice were exposed to CS daily for 1 h (equivalent to eight cigarettes per day) for two weeks, and intranasally instilled with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on day 12 after the initiation of CS exposure. GO and DADS were administered to mice by oral gavage, both at rates of 20 and 40 mg/kg, for 1 h before CS exposure for two weeks. In the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, GO and DADS inhibited the elevation in the counts of inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, which were induced in the CS and LPS (CS + LPS) group. This was accompanied by the lowered production (relative to the CS + LPS group) of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Histologically, GO and DADS inhibited the CS- and LPS-induced infiltration of inflammatory cells into lung tissues. Additionally, GO and DADS inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the lung tissues. Taken together, these findings indicate that GO and DADS could be a potential preventive agent in CS-induced airway inflammation.

A systematic review on the cardiovascular pharmacology of Emblica officinalis Gaertn

Introduction: The Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit has traditionally been considered as a cardioactive medication and has demonstrated remarkable cardiovascular effects in the pharmacological literature. The present study systematically reviews EO’s potential for prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Proquest, Ebsco, Google, Google Scholar, Ovid, and Cochrane databases were searched from 1966 to 2017 for the English and non-English literature using the terms including the cognates of EO including amla, Emblic myrobalan, Emblica officinalis, Emblica pectinata , Indian gooseberry, and Phyllanthus emblica together with antioxidant, arrhythmia, cardioprotective, cardiotoxicity, heart disease, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, myocardial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. The inclusion criteria were in vitro, animal, and clinical cardiovascular pharmacological studies conducted on EO and full-text accessibility. The exclusion criterion was studies in which a combination of EO and at least one other plant was investigated. The reference lists of the retrieved articles were also searched manually for additional eligible articles. The methodological quality of clinical trials was assessed by the Jadad scale, and animal studies were evaluated by the ARRIVE checklist.

Results: Nineteen articles concerning the cardiovascular pharmacological effects of EO were included in this review. The plant has shown antiatherogenic, anticoagulant, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antiplatelet, and vasodilatory effects as well as lipid deposition inhibitory properties. Moreover, it prevents from doxorubicin and isoproterenol cardiotoxicity and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and improves vascular endothelial function in animal studies. Some high-quality clinical studies report the vasodilatory and myocardial antioxidant properties as well as anti-platelet aggregation effects of this plant.

Conclusion: EO influences various cardiovascular risk-factors. However, there is not sufficient evidence to confirm the plant efficacy in preventing and treating CVD.

Astilbe chinensis Modulates Platelet Function via Impaired MAPK and PLCγ2 Expression

Background

Platelets play major role in maintaining hemostasis while hyperactivation of platelets may lead to arterial thrombosis. Natural products and ethnomedicine have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Astilbe chinensis is a perennial herb found in China, Korea, Russia, and Japan, which is also known for its medicinal effects, and has been used in Korean traditional medicine to treat inflammation, cancer, chronic bronchitis, and headache. We hypothesized that given herbal plant exhibits pharmacological activities against CVDs, and we specifically explored their effects on platelet function.

Methodology

Platelet aggregation was evaluated using standard light-transmission aggregometry. Intracellular calcium mobilization was assessed using Fura-2/AM, and granule secretion (ATP release) was measured in a luminometer. Fibrinogen binding to integrin α_IIbβ₃ was assessed using flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling molecules and activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt were assessed using western blots, and further, glycoprotein VI (GPVI) signaling components were studied using immunoprecipitation.

Key Results

A. chinensis extracts potently and significantly inhibited platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, granule secretion, and fibrinogen binding to integrin α_IIbβ₃. Moreover, it significantly inhibited MAPK phosphorylation and expression of GPVI downstream signaling molecules.

Conclusion

A. chinensis extract inhibited platelet aggregation and granule secretion and attenuated GPVI downstream signaling, indicating the potential therapeutic effects of this plant extract on the cardiovascular system and platelet function. We suggest that given plant extract may be a potent candidate to treat platelet-related CVDs and to be used as antiplatelet agent.

Phenolic composition and antioxidant potential of different organs of Kazakh Crataegus almaatensis Pojark: A comparison with the European Crataegus oxyacantha L. flowers

The aim of this study was to investigate polyphenolic composition of different parts (leaves, flowers and fruits) of Crataegus almaatensis Pojark, an endemic plant of Kazakhstan, and compare it to a well known European Crataegus oxyacantha L. flowers. A Qual-Quant analysis was performed based on HR-MS measurements on 22 secondary metabolites: flavonoids and phenolic acids. Another goal was to evaluate the antioxidant potency of hawthorn extracts which was expressed in the total phenolic content and DPPH scavenging potency tests. Leaf extracts from C. almaatensis were found to be the most rich in metabolites and the most active in antiradical tests (IC50 value of 48 μg/ml and TPC of 218 mg/g). The weakest potential was determined for the fruit extract of this species. According to the performed principal component analysis (PCA), the fruit extracts were not correlated with other organs of the plant, and the metabolites responsible for the extracts’ differentiation were cyanidin 3-glucoside and quetcetin 3-galactoside. Based on a high correlation factor, the flowers of the Kazakh species was found to be as rich in polyphenols as the European hawthorn. The results of this study indicate that C. almaatensis is a promising source of natural antioxidants.

In Vitro Protection by Crataegus microphylla Extracts Against Oxidative Damage and Enzyme Inhibition Effects

Objectives

Crataegus species have been used as food and also in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases. The present study aimed to make investigations on the biologic properties of different extracts prepared from Crataegus microphylla C. Koch, which was collected from Turkey.

Materials and Methods

Dried leaf, stem bark, and fresh fruit samples of C. microphylla were separated and ethanol extract, acidified (0.5% HCl, pH: 2.5) ethanol extract, ethanol:water (1:1) extract, methanol extract, acidified (0.5% HCl, pH: 2.5) methanol extract, methanol:water (1:1) extract, water extract, and acidified (0.5% HCl, pH: 2.5) water extract were prepared for each. Various biologic effects such as the prevention of oxidative DNA damage, acetylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-glucosidase inhibition, and antioxidant effects with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, PRAP, and FRAP assays of these extracts at different concentrations were studied.

Results

Acidified methanol extract of stem barks exhibited the highest acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase inhibitions among the other extracts with IC₅₀ values of 204.02±0.95 μg/mL and 37.30±0.27 μg/mL, respectively. Acidified ethanol extract of leaves was the most efficient extract against α-glucosidase, giving an IC₅₀ of 15.78±0.14 μg/mL. The IC₅₀ value of the acidified ethanol extract for DPPH was 9.89±0.09 µg/mL. Methanol extracts of leaves and stem barks at the dose of 125 µg/mL exhibited significant protective activity against DNA strand scission by hydroxyl radicals (.OH) on supercoiled pBR322 DNA.

Conclusion

Acidified methanol or ethanol extracts prepared with stem bark and leaf from C. microphylla have potential antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective effects.

A mini review: garlic extract and vascular diseases

Vascular diseases refer to medical conditions that narrow blood vessels. Narrowed cardiac or cerebral arteries can lead to myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke. Risk factors including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes may induce either cardiovascular or cerebral complications. Based on current research, garlic favorably affects atherosclerosis, hypertension and diabetes, and helps decrease the risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. Garlic has been utilized for hundreds of years as a natural health remedy. New research is emerging regarding its effectiveness in treating common diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. The underlying mechanisms by which garlic, and its byproducts, can alter pathophysiology have begun to be elucidated by these studies. Garlic is a prominent topic for future research regarding its potential as an adjuvant to conventional pharmacotherapy for these common health conditions. In this mini-review, we discuss the current state of the literature regarding garlic and its effects in patients with vascular disease. Specifically, we decided to briefly discuss the key points regarding the mechanisms underlying garlic's anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemic, and hypoglycemic effects. This allows the readers to understand each process while keeping the paper concise. These mechanisms can be further explored in the original articles, at the reader's discretion.

Biochemical and Histopathological Evidence on Beneficial Effects of Standardized Extract from Tragopogon graminifolius as a Dietary Supplement in Fatty Liver: Role of Oxidative Stress

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (FLD) is a worldwide common liver disorder. Tragopogon graminifolius is used as a dietary supplement for liver disorders. This study aimed to assess the beneficial effects of a standardized preparation from T. graminifolius extract (TGE) in animal model of FLD induced by high-fat diet (HFD). The standardization of TGE based on phenolic compounds was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The HFD induced metabolic and hepatic damages. TGE significantly reduced the elevations of serum triglyceride, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and hepatic enzymes (p =.001 for 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg of TGE). Histopathological studies also confirmed beneficial effects of TGE in FLD. Activity of total antioxidant power, content of total thiol, myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity, and lipid peroxidation were significantly improved (p <.001). Dietary supplementation with TGE results in improvement of biochemical as well as histopathological parameters. Clinical trials are warranted to prove its efficacy and tolerability in patients with FLD.

Appraisal of biochemical classes of radioprotectors: evidence, current status and guidelines for future development

The search for efficient radioprotective agents to protect from radiation-induced toxicity, due to planned or accidental radiation exposure, is still ongoing worldwide. Despite decades of research and development of widely different biochemical classes of natural and derivative compounds, a safe and effective radioprotector is largely unmet. In this comprehensive review, we evaluated the evidence for the radioprotective performance of classical thiols, vitamins, minerals, dietary antioxidants, phytochemicals, botanical and bacterial preparations, DNA-binding agents, cytokines, and chelators including adaptogens. Where radioprotection was demonstrated, the compounds have shown moderate dose modifying factors ranging from 1.1 to 2.7. To date, only few compounds found way to clinic with limited margin of dose prescription due to side effects. Most of these compounds (amifostine, filgratism, pegfilgrastim, sargramostim, palifermin, recombinant salmonella flagellin, Prussian blue, potassium iodide) act primarily via scavenging of free radicals, modulation of oxidative stress, signal transduction, cell proliferation or enhance radionuclide elimination. However, the gain in radioprotection remains hampered with low margin of tolerance. Future development of more effective radioprotectors requires an appropriate nontoxic compound, a model system and biomarkers of radiation exposure. These are important to test the effectiveness of radioprotection on physiological tissues during radiotherapy and field application in cases of nuclear eventualities.