Allicin and health: A comprehensive review

Synergistic Effects of Natural Product Combinations in Protecting the Endothelium Against Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Endothelial dysfunction is an early hallmark of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Monotherapies are limited due to the complex, multifactorial pathways. The multi-component and multi-targeted approach of natural products have the potential to manage CVDs.

This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the synergistic mechanism of natural product combinations in protecting the endothelium against various cardiovascular risk factors.

Databases (PubMed, MEDLINE and EMBASE) and Google Scholar were searched, and studies in English published between January 2000 and February 2022 were collated. Clinical and pre-clinical studies of natural product combinations with or without pharmaceutical medicines, compared with monotherapy and/or proposing the underlying mechanism in protecting endothelial function, were included.

Four clinical studies demonstrated that natural product combinations or natural product-pharmaceutical combinations improved endothelial function. This was associated with multi-targeted effects or improved absorption of the active substances in the body. Seventeen preclinical studies showed that natural product combinations produced synergistic (demonstrated by combination index or Bliss independence model) or enhanced effects in protecting the endothelium against hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, platelet activation, oxidative stress and hyperhomocysteinemia. The molecular targets included reactive oxygen species, Nrf2-HO-1, p38MAPK, P13K/Akt and NF-κB.

Thus, the current available evidence of natural product combinations in targeting endothelial dysfunction is predominantly from preclinical studies. These have demonstrated synergistic/enhanced pharmacological activities and proposed associated mechanisms. However, evidence from larger, well-designed clinical trials remains weak. More cohesion is required between preclinical and clinical data to support natural product combinations in preventing or slowing the progression of CVDs.

Natural Biocidal Compounds of Plant Origin as Biodegradable Materials Modifiers

The article presents a literature review of the plant origin natural compounds with biocidal properties. These compounds could be used as modifiers of biodegradable materials. Modification of polymer material is one of the basic steps in its manufacturing process. Biodegradable materials play a key role in the current development of materials engineering. Natural modifiers are non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and renewable. The substances contained in natural modifiers exhibit biocidal properties against bacteria and/or fungi. The article discusses polyphenols, selected phenols, naphthoquinones, triterpenoids, and phytoncides that are natural antibiotics. Due to the increasing demand for biodegradable materials and the protection of the natural environment against the negative effects of toxic substances, it is crucial to replace synthetic modifiers with plant ones. This work mentions industries where materials containing natural modifying additives could find potential applications. Moreover, the probable examples of the final products are presented. Additionally, the article points out the current world's pandemic state and the use of materials with biocidal properties considering the epidemiological conditions.

Allicin, an Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Agent, Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment

Allicin (diallylthiosulfinate) is a defense molecule produced by cellular contents of garlic (Allium sativum L.). On tissue damage, the non-proteinogenic amino acid alliin (S-allylcysteine sulfoxide) is converted to allicin in an enzyme-mediated process catalysed by alliinase. Allicin is hydrophobic in nature, can efficiently cross the cellular membranes and behaves as a reactive sulfur species (RSS) inside the cells. It is physiologically active molecule with the ability to oxidise the thiol groups of glutathione and between cysteine residues in proteins. Allicin has shown anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant properties and also serves as an efficient therapeutic agent against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, the present review describes allicin as an antioxidant, and neuroprotective molecule that can ameliorate the cognitive abilities in case of neurodegenerative and neuropsychological disorders. As an antioxidant, allicin fights the reactive oxygen species (ROS) by downregulation of NOX (NADPH oxidizing) enzymes, it can directly interact to reduce the cellular levels of different types of ROS produced by a variety of peroxidases. Most of the neuroprotective actions of allicin are mediated via redox-dependent pathways. Allicin inhibits neuroinflammation by suppressing the ROS production, inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, P38 and JNK pathways. As an inhibitor of cholinesterase and (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) it can be applied to manage the Alzheimer's disease, helps to maintain the balance of neurotransmitters in case of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactive syndrome (ADHD). In case of acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) allicin protects neuron damage by regulating inflammation, apoptosis and promoting the expression levels of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2). Metal induced neurodegeneration can also be attenuated and cognitive abilities of patients suffering from neurological diseases can be ameliorates by allicin administration.

Plant-derived nanotherapeutic systems to counter the overgrowing threat of resistant microbes and biofilms

Since antiquity, the survival of human civilization has always been threatened by the microbial infections. An alarming surge in the resistant microbial strains against the conventional drugs is quite evident in the preceding years. Furthermore, failure of currently available regimens of antibiotics has been highlighted by the emerging threat of biofilms in the community and hospital settings. Biofilms are complex dynamic composites rich in extracellular polysaccharides and DNA, supporting plethora of symbiotic microbial life forms, that can grow on both living and non-living surfaces. These enforced structures are impervious to the drugs and lead to spread of recurrent and non-treatable infections. There is a strong realization among the scientists and healthcare providers to work out alternative strategies to combat the issue of drug resistance and biofilms. Plants are a traditional but rich source of effective antimicrobials with wider spectrum due to presence of multiple constituents in perfect synergy. Other than the biocompatibility and the safety profile, these phytochemicals have been repeatedly proven to overcome the non-responsiveness of resistant microbes and films via multiple pathways such as blocking the efflux pumps, better penetration across the cell membranes or biofilms, and anti-adhesive properties. However, the unfavorable physicochemical attributes and stability issues of these phytochemicals have hampered their commercialization. These issues of the phytochemicals can be solved by designing suitably constructed nanoscaled structures. Nanosized systems can not only improve the physicochemical features of the encapsulated payloads but can also enhance their pharmacokinetic and therapeutic profile. This review encompasses why and how various types of phytochemicals and their nanosized preparations counter the microbial resistance and the biofouling. We believe that phytochemical in tandem with nanotechnological innovations can be employed to defeat the microbial resistance and biofilms. This review will help in better understanding of the challenges associated with developing such platforms and their future prospects.

Demonstration of Allium sativum Extract Inhibitory Effect on Biodeteriogenic Microbial Strain Growth, Biofilm Development, and Enzymatic and Organic Acid Production

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the efficiency of Allium sativum hydro-alcoholic extract (ASE) againstFigure growth, biofilm development, and soluble factor production of more than 200 biodeteriogenic microbial strains isolated from cultural heritage objects and buildings. The plant extract composition and antioxidant activities were determined spectrophotometrically and by HPLC-MS. The bioevaluation consisted of the qualitative (adapted diffusion method) and the quantitative evaluation of the inhibitory effect on planktonic growth (microdilution method), biofilm formation (violet crystal microtiter method), and production of microbial enzymes and organic acids. The garlic extract efficiency was correlated with microbial strain taxonomy and isolation source (the fungal strains isolated from paintings and paper and bacteria from wood, paper, and textiles were the most susceptible). The garlic extract contained thiosulfinate (307.66 ± 0.043 µM/g), flavonoids (64.33 ± 7.69 µg QE/g), and polyphenols (0.95 ± 0.011 mg GAE/g) as major compounds and demonstrated the highest efficiency against the Aspergillus versicolor (MIC 3.12-6.25 mg/mL), A. ochraceus (MIC: 3.12 mg/mL), Penicillium expansum (MIC 6.25-12.5 mg/mL), and A. niger (MIC 3.12-50 mg/mL) strains. The extract inhibited the adherence capacity (IIBG% 95.08-44.62%) and the production of cellulase, organic acids, and esterase. This eco-friendly solution shows promising potential for the conservation and safeguarding of tangible cultural heritage, successfully combating the biodeteriogenic microorganisms without undesirable side effects for the natural ecosystems.

Transcriptome in Combination Proteome Unveils the Phenylpropane Pathway Involved in Garlic (Allium sativum) Greening

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an important vegetable crop that is widely used in cooking and medicine. The greening phenomenon of garlic severely decreases the quality of garlic and hinders garlic processing. To study the mechanism of garlic greening, comprehensive full-length transcript sets were constructed. We detected the differences in greening between Pizhou (PZ) garlic and Laiwu (LW) garlic that were both stored at −2.5°C and protected from light at the same time. The results showed that 60,087 unigenes were respectively annotated to the NR, KEGG, GO, Pfam, eggNOG and Swiss Prot databases, and a total of 30,082 unigenes were annotated. The analysis of differential genes and differential proteins showed that PZ garlic and LW garlic had 923 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 529 genes were up regulated and 394 genes were downregulated. Through KEGG and GO enrichment analysis, it was found that the most significant way of enriching DEGs was the phenylpropane metabolic pathway. Proteomics analysis found that there were 188 differentially expressed proteins (DAPs), 162 up-regulated proteins, and 26 down-regulated proteins between PZ garlic and LW garlic. The content of 10 proteins related to phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in PZ garlic was significantly higher than that of LW garlic. This study explored the mechanisms of garlic greening at a molecular level and further discovered that the formation of garlic green pigment was affected significantly by the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway. This work provided a theoretical basis for the maintenance of garlic quality during garlic processing and the future development of the garlic processing industries.

Lycopene: Food Sources, Biological Activities, and Human Health Benefits

As an antioxidant, lycopene has acquired importance as it prevents autoxidation of fats and related products. Tomatoes are an important agricultural product that is a great source of lycopene. It contains many vitamins and minerals, fiber, and carbohydrates and is associated with various positive effects on health. The antioxidant potential of tomatoes is substantially explained with lycopene compounds. Diet is a major risk factor for heart diseases which is shown as the most important cause of death in the world. It has been observed that the lycopene taken in the diet has positive effects in many stages of atherosclerosis. The serum lipid levels, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, blood pressure, and antioxidative potential are mainly affected by lycopene. These natural antioxidants, which can also enhance the nutritional value of foods, may lead to new ways if used in food preservation. In this review study, the antioxidant potential and cardiovascular protection mechanism of lycopene are discussed.

Allicin Ameliorates Intestinal Barrier Damage via Microbiota-Regulated Short-Chain Fatty Acids-TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Cascade Response in Acrylamide-Induced Rats

Acrylamide (AA) is a heat-induced toxicant, which can cause severe damage to health. In the present study, SD rats were used to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of allicin dietary supplementation in the rats with AA-induced intestinal injury. The elevated expression of occludin, claudin-1, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), mucin 2, and mucin 3 indicated that oral allicin alleviated the intestinal epithelial barrier breakage induced by AA, compared with the AA-treated group. In the gut microbiota, Bacteroides, Escherichia_Shigella, Dubosiella, and Alloprevotella related to the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were negatively affected by AA, while allicin regulated cascade response of the microbiota-SCFAs signaling to reverse the reduction of acetic acid and propionic acid by AA treatment. Allicin also dramatically down-regulated the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), NF-κB signaling pathway proteins, and proinflammatory cytokines by promoting the production of SCFAs in AA-treated rats. Allicin relieved the intestinal barrier injury and inflammation caused by AA as evidenced by the regulation cascade response of the microbiota-SCFAs-TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, allicin is highly effective in the treatment and prevention of AA-induced intestinal injury.

Solvent Mixture Optimization in the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activities from Garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Garlic is a health promoter that has important bioactive compounds. The bioactive extraction is an important step in the analysis of constituents present in plant preparations. The purpose of this study is to optimize the extraction with the best proportion of solvents to obtain total phenolic compounds (TPC) and thiosulfinates (TS) from dried garlic powder, and evaluate the antioxidant activities of the optimized extracts. A statistical mixture simplex axial design was used to evaluate the effect of solvents (water, ethanol, and acetone), as well as mixtures of these solvents, after two ultrasound extraction cycles of 15 min. Results showed that solvent mixtures with a high portion of water and pure water were efficient for TPC and TS recovery through this extraction procedure. According to the regression model computed, the most significant solvent mixtures to obtain high TPC and TS recovery from dried garlic powder are, respectively, the binary mixture with 75% water and 25% acetone and pure water. These optimized extracts presented oxygen radical absorbance capacity. Pure water was better for total antioxidant capacity, and the binary mixture of water–acetone (75:25) was better for DPPH scavenging activity. These optimized extracts can be used for industrial and research applications.

The nutritional applications of garlic (Allium sativum) as natural feed additives in animals

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an essential vegetable that has been widely utilized as seasoning, flavoring, culinary and in herbal remedies. Garlic contains several characteristic organosulfur compounds, such as diallyl sulfide, allicin (diallyl thiosulphate), γ-glutamylcysteine, and S-allyl cysteine (alliin) and ajoene, which garlic has beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress markers, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and endothelial function in vitro or in animal model. These bioactive molecules are also playing pivotal role in livestock and fisheries production apart from its application in humans. Supplementation of animal feed with garlic and its related products is consistent with the modern agricultural concept of organic animal husbandry. This review compiles the information describing the effects of feeding garlic and its extracts on selected performance parameters in animals (chicken, rabbits, ruminants, pigs and fish). This review may provide reference for scientists and entrepreneurs to investigate the applications of feeds added with garlic and allicin by-products for the improvement of animal husbandry and aquatic production.

Bacterial Skin Infections in Livestock and Plant-Based Alternatives to Their Antibiotic Treatment

Due to its large surface area, the skin is susceptible to various injuries, possibly accompanied by the entrance of infective agents into the body. Commensal organisms that constitute the skin microbiota play important roles in the orchestration of cutaneous homeostasis and immune competence. The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus is present as part of the normal biota of the skin and mucous membranes in both humans and animals, but can cause disease when it invades the body either due to trauma or because of the impaired immune response of the host. Colonization of livestock skin by S. aureus is a precursor for majority of bacterial skin infections, which range from boils to sepsis, with the best-characterized being bovine mastitis. Antibiotic treatment of these infections can contribute to the promotion of resistant bacterial strains and even to multidrug resistance. The development of antibiotic resistance to currently available antibiotics is a worldwide problem. Considering the increasing ability of bacteria to effectively resist antibacterial agents, it is important to reduce the livestock consumption of antibiotics to preserve antibiotic effectiveness in the future. Plants are recognized as sources of various bioactive substances, including antibacterial activity towards clinically important microorganisms. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the major groups of phytochemicals with antibacterial activity and their modes of action. It also provides a list of currently known and used plant species aimed at treating or preventing bacterial skin infections in livestock.

Metabolite Profile and In Vitro Beneficial Effects of Black Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Polar Extract

Over the centuries, humans have traditionally used garlic (Allium sativum L.) as a food ingredient (spice) and remedy for many diseases. To confirm this, many extensive studies recognized the therapeutic effects of garlic bulbs. More recently, black garlic (BG), made by heat-ageing white garlic bulbs, has increased its popularity in cuisine and traditional medicine around the world, but there is still limited information on its composition and potential beneficial effects. In this study, the metabolite profile of methanol extract of BG (BGE) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry in high-resolution mode. Results allowed to establish that BGE major components were sulfur derivatives, saccharides, peptides, organic acids, a phenylpropanoid derivative, saponins, and compounds typical of glycerophospholipid metabolism. Characterization of the BGE action in cancer cells revealed that antioxidant, metabolic, and hepatoprotective effects occur upon treatment as well as induction of maturation of acute myeloid leukemia cells. These results are interesting from the impact point of view of BG consumption as a functional food for potential prevention of metabolic and tumor diseases.

Antibacterial properties of Allium sativum L. against the most emerging multidrug-resistant bacteria and its synergy with antibiotics

Garlic has long been known as the most effective plant species in treatment of bacterial infections. Considering the vast potential of garlic as a source of antimicrobial drugs, this study is aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of Allium sativum extracts and their interactions with selected antibiotics against drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant isolates of emerging bacterial pathogens that are frequently found in healthcare settings. As shown by the in vitro data obtained in this study, the whole Allium sativum extract inhibited the growth of a broad range of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains with bactericidal or bacteriostatic effects. Depending on the organism, the susceptibility to fresh garlic extract was comparable to the conventional antibiotic gentamycin. Since the combinations of fresh garlic extract with gentamycin and ciprofloxacin inhibited both the drug sensitive and MDR bacteria, in most cases showing a synergistic or insignificant relationship, the potential use of such combinations may be beneficial, especially in inhibiting drug-resistant pathogens. The study results indicate the possibility of using garlic as e.g. a supplement used during antibiotic therapy, which may increase the effectiveness of gentamicin and ciprofloxacin.

Chemical diversity of dietary phytochemicals and their mode of chemoprevention

Despite the advancement in prognosis, diagnosis and treatment, cancer has emerged as the second leading cause of disease-associated death across the globe. With the remarkable application of synthetic drugs in cancer therapy and the onset of therapy-associated adverse effects, dietary phytochemicals have been materialized as potent anti-cancer drugs owing to their antioxidant, apoptosis and autophagy modulating activities. With dynamic regulation of apoptosis and autophagy in association with cell cycle regulation, inhibition in cellular proliferation, invasion and migration, dietary phytochemicals have emerged as potent anti-cancer pharmacophores. Dietary phytochemicals or their synthetic analogous as individual drug candidates or in combination with FDA approved chemotherapeutic drugs have exhibited potent anti-cancer efficacy. With the advancement in cancer therapeutics, dietary phytochemicals hold high prevalence for their use as precision and personalized medicine to replace conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Hence, keeping these perspectives in mind, this review focuses on the diversity of dietary phytochemicals and their molecular mechanism of action in several cancer subtypes and tumor entities. Understanding the possible molecular key players involved, the use of dietary phytochemicals will thrive a new horizon in cancer therapy.

Improving the bioavailability and bioactivity of garlic bioactive compounds via nanotechnology

This review highlights main bioactive compounds and important biological functions especially anticancer effects of the garlic. In addition, we review current literature on the stability and bioavailability of garlic components. Finally, this review aims to provide a potential strategy for using nanotechnology to increase the stability and solubility of garlic components, providing guidelines for the qualities of garlic products to improve their absorption and prevent their early degradation, and extend their circulation time in the body. The application of nanotechnology to improve the bioavailability and targeting of garlic compounds are expected to provide a theoretical basis for the functional components of garlic to treat human health. We review the improvement of bioavailability and bioactivity of garlic bioactive compounds via nanotechnology, which could promisingly overcome the limitations of conventional garlic products, and would be used to prevent and treat cancer and other diseases in the near future.

Small in size, big on taste: Metabolomics analysis of flavor compounds from Philippine garlic

Philippine garlic (Allium sativum L.) is arguably known to pack flavor and aroma in smaller bulbs compared to imported varieties saturating the local market. In this study, ethanolic extracts of Philippine garlic cultivars were profiled using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF). γ-Glu dipeptides, oligosaccharides and lipids were determined in Philippine garlic cultivars through bioinformatics analysis in GNPS Molecular Networking Platform and fragmentation analysis. Multivariate statistical analysis using XCMS Online showed the abundance of γ-Glu allyl cysteine in Batanes-sourced garlic while γ-Glu propenyl cysteine, γ-Glu methyl cysteine, and alliin are enriched in the Ilocos cultivar. Principal component analysis showed that the γ-Glu dipeptides found in local garlic influenced their distinct separation across PC1 from imported varieties. This presence of high levels of γ-Glu dipeptides and probiotic oligosaccharides may potentially contribute to the superior flavor and nutritional benefits of Philippine garlic.

Combined Hot Air, Microwave, and Infrared Drying of Hawthorn Fruit: Effects of Ultrasonic Pretreatment on Drying Time, Energy, Qualitative, and Bioactive Compounds' Properties

The present study aimed to examine the effect of ultrasonic pretreatment and hot air, microwave–hot-air, infrared–hot air, and freeze-drying on the drying time, specific energy (SE), qualitative properties (i.e., color, shrinkage, and rehydration ratio), and bioactive compounds’ properties (i.e., antioxidant activity, phenolic, and flavonoid contents) of hawthorn fruit. Drying of hawthorn was conducted from 45 min for the ultrasonic + microwave–hot-air drying to 1280 min for the freeze-drying method. The lowest amount of SE was obtained using the ultrasonic-microwave–hot-air drying method, which was 47.57 MJ/kg. The lowest values in color changes (12.25) and shrinkage (17.21%) were recorded for the freeze-drying method, while the highest amounts for these traits were 45.57% and 66.75% in the HA drying, respectively. In general, the use of different drying methods reduces the antioxidant capacity (AC), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) during processing compared to fresh samples. The highest values for AC, TPC, TFC, and the rehydration ratio were 30.69%, 73.07 mg-GAE/gdw, 65.93 mg-QE/gdw, and 2.02 for the freeze-drying method, respectively.

Phytochemicals as modifiers of gut microbial communities

A healthy gut microbiota (GM) is paramount for a healthy lifestyle. Alterations of the GM have been involved in the aetiology of several chronic diseases, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. In pathological conditions, the diversity of the GM is commonly reduced or altered, often toward an increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. The colonic fermentation of dietary fiber has shown to stimulate the fraction of bacteria purported to have beneficial health effects, acting as prebiotics, and to increase the production of short chain fatty acids, e.g. propionate and butyrate, while also improving gut epithelium integrity such as tight junction functionality. However, a variety of phytochemicals, often associated with dietary fiber, have also been proposed to modulate the GM. Many phytochemicals possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may positively affect the GM, including polyphenols, carotenoids, phytosterols/phytostanols, lignans, alkaloids, glucosinolates and terpenes. Some polyphenols may act as prebiotics, while carotenoids have been shown to alter immunoglobulin A expression, an important factor for bacteria colonization. Other phytochemicals may interact with the mucosa, another important factor for colonization, and prevent its degradation. Certain polyphenols have shown to influence bacterial communication, interacting with quorum sensing. Finally, phytochemicals can be metabolized in the gut into bioactive constituents, e.g. equol from daidzein and enterolactone from secoisolariciresinol, while bacteria can use glycosides for energy. In this review, we strive to highlight the potential interactions between prominent phytochemicals and health benefits related to the GM, emphasizing their potential as adjuvant strategies for GM-related diseases.

A review of dietary phytochemicals and their relation to oxidative stress and human diseases

Phytochemicals refer to active substances in plant-based diets. Phytochemicals found in for example fruits, vegetables, grains and seed oils are considered relatively safe for consumption due to mammal-plant co-evolution and adaptation. A number of human diseases are related to oxidative stress caused by for example chemical environmental contaminants in air, water and food; while also lifestyle including smoking and lack of exercise and dietary preferences are important factors for disease development in humans. Here we explore the dietary sources of antioxidant phytochemicals that have beneficial effects on oxidative stress, cardiovascular and neurological diseases as well as cancer. Plant-based diets usually contain phenolic acids, flavonoids and carotenoids, which have strong antioxidant properties, and therefore remove the excess of active oxygen in the body, and protect cells from damage, reducing the risk of cardiovascular and Alzheimer's disease. In most cases, obesity is related to diet and inactivity and plant-based diets change lipid composition and metabolism, which reduce obesity related hazards. Cruciferous and Allium vegetables are rich in organic sulphides that can act on the metabolism of carcinogens and therefore used as anti-cancer and suppressing agents while dietary fibres and plant sterols may improve intestinal health and prevent intestinal diseases. Thus, we recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains as its content of phytochemicals may have the potential to prevent or improve a broad sweep of various diseases.

Allicin and Digestive System Cancers: From Chemical Structure to Its Therapeutic Opportunities

Digestive system cancer tumors are one of the major causes of cancer-related fatalities; the vast majority of them are colorectal or gastric malignancies. Epidemiological evidence confirmed that allium-containing food, such as garlic, reduces the risk of developing malignancies. Among all compounds in garlic, allicin has been most researched, as it contains sulfur and produces many second degradation compounds, such as sulfur dioxide, diallyl sulfide (DAS), diallyl trisulfide (DATS), and diallyl disulfide (DADS) in the presence of enzymatic reactions in gastric juice. These substances have shown anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer efficacy, including gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, leukemia, and skin cancers. Herein, we summarize the therapeutic potential of allicin in the treatment of GI cancers.

Enhancing jackfruit infrared drying by combining ultrasound treatments: Effect on drying characteristics, quality properties and microstructure

This study investigates the enhancing effect of power ultrasound (US, 80 W) on the drying characteristics, quality properties and microstructure of jackfruit slices treated with infrared (IR) treatments of 900 W, 1200 W and 1500 W in the meantime. Results showed that when ultrasound was applied, the drying time was reduced by 31%, 35% and 25% compared to pure IR 900 W, 1200 W and 1500 W, respectively. Meanwhile, D_eff values of dried samples were improved. The application of ultrasound significantly increased vitamin C retention and total phenolic content at IR 900 W. The micrographs indicate that ultrasound provided a more porous microstructure of dried jackfruit slices thus accelerating the drying process. The color characteristics of IR-US samples showed no significant change compared to IR drying slices. This study shows that infrared assisted with ultrasound can be a potential method for industrial production of dried jackfruit slices.

Ethnobotany and the Role of Plant Natural Products in Antibiotic Drug Discovery

The crisis of antibiotic resistance necessitates creative and innovative approaches, from chemical identification and analysis to the assessment of bioactivity. Plant natural products (NPs) represent a promising source of antibacterial lead compounds that could help fill the drug discovery pipeline in response to the growing antibiotic resistance crisis. The major strength of plant NPs lies in their rich and unique chemodiversity, their worldwide distribution and ease of access, their various antibacterial modes of action, and the proven clinical effectiveness of plant extracts from which they are isolated. While many studies have tried to summarize NPs with antibacterial activities, a comprehensive review with rigorous selection criteria has never been performed. In this work, the literature from 2012 to 2019 was systematically reviewed to highlight plant-derived compounds with antibacterial activity by focusing on their growth inhibitory activity. A total of 459 compounds are included in this Review, of which 50.8% are phenolic derivatives, 26.6% are terpenoids, 5.7% are alkaloids, and 17% are classified as other metabolites. A selection of 183 compounds is further discussed regarding their antibacterial activity, biosynthesis, structure-activity relationship, mechanism of action, and potential as antibiotics. Emerging trends in the field of antibacterial drug discovery from plants are also discussed. This Review brings to the forefront key findings on the antibacterial potential of plant NPs for consideration in future antibiotic discovery and development efforts.

Potential therapeutic applications of phytoconstituents as immunomodulators: Pre-clinical and clinical evidences

Autoimmune and infectious diseases are the major public health issues and have gained great attention in the last few years for the search of new agents with therapeutic benefits on the host immune functions. In recent years, natural products (NPs) have been studied broadly for their multi-targeted activities under pathological conditions. Interestingly, several attempts have been made to outline the immunomodulatory properties of NPs. Research on in-vitro and in-vivo models have shown the immunomodulatory activity of NPs, is due to their antiinflammatory property, induction of phagocytosis and immune cells stimulation activity. Moreover, studies on humans have suggested that phytomedicines reduce inflammation and could provide appropriate benefits either in single form or complex combinations with other agents preventing disease progression, subsequently enhancing the efficacy of treatment to combat multiple malignancies. However, the exact mechanism of immunomodulation is far from clear, warranting more detailed investigations on their effectiveness. Nevertheless, the reduction of inflammatory cascades is considered as a prime protective mechanism in a number of inflammation regulated autoimmune diseases. Altogether, this review will discuss the biological activities of plant-derived secondary metabolites, such as polyphenols, alkaloids, saponins, polysaccharides and so forth, against various diseases and their potential use as an immunomodulatory agent under pathological conditions.

Effect of different combined mechanical and thermal treatments on the quality characteristics of garlic paste

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the sequence of different thermal and mechanical treatments on the physicochemical parameters and microstructure of garlic paste, in order to improve the quality of the product. The total organosulfur compounds (OSCs) decreased steadily in blended-heated garlic, whereas OSCs decreased sharply after 2 min at 75 °C or 5 min at 85 and 95 °C in heated-blended garlic. After blanching for 5 min, allicin could maintain over 4.0 mg/g only at 75 °C; and OSCs of heated-blended garlic paste were found to drop by 29.56%, 90.63% and 94.79% at 75, 85 and 95 °C, respectively. In blended-heated garlic, the color values of L* (lightness) and a* (redness) decreased (P < 0.05), while the b* (yellowness) and C* (chroma) increased (P < 0.05), obtaining green discoloration garlic paste. The total color differences of blended-heated samples were greater than 12.08, which were 2-6 folds higher compared with heated-blended garlic. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity decreased (P < 0.05) in all thermal treatments, thermal treatment of heated-blended garlic less than 5 min maintained over 30% of antiradical activity. The sequence of unit operations determined the pattern of garlic microstructure disruption, resulting in various enzymic and non-enzymic reactions. Our results indicated that use of heat treatment prior to blend processing is an effective and feasible method to inhibit garlic discoloration and retain high content of bioactive OSCs. It is recommended that garlic paste be prepared using heated-blended processing, with thermal processing limited to 75 °C for less than 5 min.

Plant-Based Foods and Their Bioactive Compounds on Fatty Liver Disease: Effects, Mechanisms, and Clinical Application

Fatty liver disease (FLD), including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), is a serious chronic metabolic disease that affects a wide range of people. Lipid accumulation accompanied by oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver is the most important pathogenesis of FLD. The plant-based, high-fiber, and low-fat diet has been recommended to manage FLD for a long time. This review discusses the current state of the art into the effects, mechanisms, and clinical application of plant-based foods in NAFLD and AFLD, with highlighting related molecular mechanisms. Epidemiological evidence revealed that the consumption of several plant-based foods was beneficial to alleviating FLD. Further experimental studies found out that fruits, spices, teas, coffee, and other plants, as well as their bioactive compounds, such as resveratrol, anthocyanin, curcumin, and tea polyphenols, could alleviate FLD by ameliorating hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and apoptosis, as well as regulating autophagy and ethanol metabolism. More importantly, clinical trials confirmed the beneficial effects of plant-based foods on patients with fatty liver. However, several issues need to be further studied especially the safety and effective doses of plant-based foods and their bioactive compounds. Overall, certain plant-based foods are promising natural sources of bioactive compounds to prevent and alleviate fatty liver disease.

Allicin alleviated acrylamide-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation via oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress in Kupffer cells and SD rats liver

Acrylamide (AA) in heat-processed food leads to widespread concerns due to its hepatotoxicity. Allicin, a plant-derived antioxidant, possesses a significant protective effect on AA-induced hepatotoxicity, but the mechanism is still unclear. Herein, we investigated the mechanism in Kupffer cells and SD rats liver. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and LigPlus software speculated that allicin inhibited the activity of CYP2E1 expression by binding to its amino acid residues Phe116, Phe207, Leu210, Phe298, Ala299, Thr303, Val364 and Phe478 through hydrophobic interactions. Allicin decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) release and CYP2E1 protein expression and then alleviated the appearance of OS. Meanwhile, allicin significantly reduced ERS characteristic proteins GRP78, CHOP and UPR branch IRE1α pathway key proteins p-IRE, p-ASK, TRAF2 and XBP-1s expression. Simultaneously, allicin ameliorated OS and ERS activation, which inhibited the activation of the MAPK and NF-κB pathways, and down-regulated JNK, ERK, p38, p65 and IκBα phosphorylation. Allicin pre-treatment inhibited AA-induced inflammation as evidenced by reducing NLRP3 inflammasome activation, decreasing Cleaved-Caspase-1 expression as well as IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α secretion. Taken together, our data provide new insights into possible signaling pathways involved in allicin attenuating AA-induced hepatotoxicity in vivo and in vitro.

Cinnamaldehyde Could Reduce the Accumulation of Diarrhetic Shellfish Toxins in the Digestive Gland of the Mussel Perna viridis under Laboratory Conditions

Diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs), some of the most important phycotoxins, are distributed almost all over the world, posing a great threat to human health through the food chain. Therefore, it is of great significance to find effective methods to reduce toxin accumulation in shellfish. In this paper, we observed the effects of four phytochemicals including cinnamaldehyde (CA), quercetin, oridonin and allicin on the accumulation of DSTs in the digestive gland of Perna viridis after exposure to the DSTs-producing Prorocentrum lima. We found that, among the four phytochemicals, CA could effectively decrease the accumulation of DSTs (okadaic acid-eq) in the digestive gland of P. viridis. Further evidence demonstrated that CA could reduce the histological alterations of the digestive gland of a mussel caused by DSTs. RT-qPCR showed that CA could suppress the CYP3A4 induction by DSTs, suggesting that the DSTs’ decrease induced by CA might be related to the inhibition of CYP3A4 transcription induction. However, further studies on the underlying mechanism, optimal treatment time, ecological safety and cost should be addressed before cinnamaldehyde is used to decrease the accumulation of DSTs in field.

Effect of blanching and freezing on the physical properties, bioactive compounds, and microstructure of garlic (Allium sativum L.)

The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of blanching on the physical properties of frozen garlic cloves and to explore the relationship between quality changes and microstructure. A short-term blanching treatment (100 °C  for 45 s, 90 °C  for 45 s, and 80 °C  for 60 s) before freezing did not affect the total organosulfur compound content. In a preliminary research, blanching conditions were determined to be 100 °C  for 45 to 80 s. Under these conditions, peroxidase was inactivated, but organosulfur compounds were retained. Mechanical and color tests showed a damaging effect of blanching and freezing on frozen garlic blanched for 60 and 80 s at 100 °C . Compared to frozen fresh garlic, frozen garlic treated by blanching for 45 s at 100 °C  retained 2871.49 ± 200.24 µg/g of allicin, although 81.83% of peroxidase was inactivated; browning and hardness improved by 49.97 and 48.01%, respectively. According to scanning electron microscopy, significant damage to the microstructure was observed in both frozen fresh garlic and frozen garlic after 60 s and 80 s of blanching at 100 °C . Moreover, ¹ H low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) indicated that blanching for 60 s and 80 s induced an increase in free water in garlic tissues, resulting in further damage after freezing. As peroxidase was efficiently inactivated, the microstructure and organosulfur compounds were better preserved, and blanching treatment at 100 °C  for 45 s before freezing is a potential method for obtaining frozen garlic with high sensory and nutritional qualities. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Freezing helps to overcome challenges associated with growing seasons and the deterioration of garlic during storage. After frozen garlic is thawed, it is prone to some undesirable changes, such as enzymatic browning and softening. Minimal blanching (45 s at 100 °C ) pretreatment can help to maintain the bioactive compounds of garlic and prevent texture and color deterioration caused by freezing directly.

Inhibition of N-Vanillylnonanamide in anaerobic digestion of lipids in food waste: Microorganisms damage and blocked electron transfer

To study the inhibited degradation metabolism and anaerobic digestion of typical lipids in food waste, an artificially produced capsaicin, N-Vanillylnonanamide, a typical soluble component in waste lipids, was added to a glycerol trioleate anaerobic digestion system. The microorganisms damage and blocked electron transfer caused by N-Vanillylnonanamide during anaerobic digestion were further clarified. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images demonstrated that N-Vanillylnonanamide (≥4 wt%) structurally damaged microorganisms via cell membrane breakage, which impair their function. N-Vanillylnonanamide inhibited the activities of the key enzyme CoA, AK, F₄₂₀, and CoM, which are relevant for both degradation metabolism and anaerobic digestion. 16S rRNA analysis showed that dominant bacterial and archaeal communities markedly decreased after anaerobic digestion of glycerol trioleate with N-Vanillylnonanamide (≥4 wt%). For example, the proportion of Methanosarcina decreased from 30 % to 6 %. Current-voltage curves indicated that the electron transfer rate in the community of microorganisms decreased by 99 % from 4.67 × 10^-2 to 5.66 × 10^-4 s^-1 in response to N-Vanillylnonanamide (40 wt%). The methane yield during anaerobic digestion of glycerol trioleate decreased by 84.0 % from 780.21-142.10 mL/g-total volatile solids with N-Vanillylnonanamide (40 wt%).

Plant-Derived Natural Products in Cancer Research: Extraction, Mechanism of Action, and Drug Formulation

Cancer is one of the main causes of death globally and considered as a major challenge for the public health system. The high toxicity and the lack of selectivity of conventional anticancer therapies make the search for alternative treatments a priority. In this review, we describe the main plant-derived natural products used as anticancer agents. Natural sources, extraction methods, anticancer mechanisms, clinical studies, and pharmaceutical formulation are discussed in this review. Studies covered by this review should provide a solid foundation for researchers and physicians to enhance basic and clinical research on developing alternative anticancer therapies.

S-Methyl-(2-Methoxycarbonylamino-Benzimidazole-5) Thiosulfonate as a Potential Antiparasitic Agent-Its Action on the Development of Ascaris suum Eggs In Vitro

Ascaris suum is a soil-transmitted parasite causing ascariasis in pigs, largely limiting livestock production globally. Searching for new drugs affecting all stages of nematode development is necessary and widely postulated. The in vitro activity of S-methyl-(2-methoxycarbonylamino-benzoimidasole-5) thiosulfonate on A. suum developing eggs was studied. Five concentrations of the drug were used—0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10 mM during 24, 48 and 72 h of exposure. After drug treatment, the eggs were washed and cultured in 0.05 M HCl at 27 °C for 20 days. Both the concentration and duration of the drug exposure had an inhibitory impact on the percentage of L₂ larvae developed. The best effect was obtained after 72 h of incubation in 5 mM drug solution, only 1.9 ± 3.3% of the larvae developed to the L₂ stage. Moreover, no SNP was detected at codon 167, which is correlated with benzimidazole resistance, in the tested samples. For the first time, it has been demonstrated that S-M-(2-MKA-BZ-5)TS seems to be a potential ovicidal anti-helminthic agent. It may lead to the elimination of parasites and reduce environmental contamination from roundworm eggs. The ovicidal effects of the drug should be additionally confirmed by further infection studies using experimental animals.

Quantification of Allyl Methyl Sulfide, Allyl Methyl Sulfoxide, and Allyl Methyl Sulfone in Human Milk and Urine After Ingestion of Cooked and Roasted Garlic

Due to its characteristic flavor and positive effects on human health, garlic is a highly valued food ingredient. Consumption of garlic alters the quality of body odors, which may in some instances hinder social interaction but be beneficial in other contexts, as it is assumed to contribute to early flavor learning in the breastfeeding context, for example. In previous work, allyl methyl sulfide (AMS) has been identified as the major odor-active metabolite in urine and milk, being excreted together with the odorless metabolites allyl methyl sulfoxide (AMSO) and allyl methyl sulfone (AMSO₂) after ingestion of raw garlic. The present work aimed to elucidate whether commonly used culinary thermal processing steps influence the excretion profiles of garlic-derived compounds. To this aim, urine (n = 6) and milk (n = 4) samples were donated before and after ingestion of roasted and cooked garlic and investigated by gas chromatography-olfactometry/mass spectrometry, and, in the case of milk, by aroma profile analysis. The concentrations of AMS, AMSO, and AMSO₂ were determined by stable isotope dilution assays. Sensory evaluations revealed that a garlic-like odor was perceivable in milk samples donated after ingestion of roasted and cooked garlic. Besides AMS, AMSO, and AMSO₂, no other odor-active or odorless compounds related to the ingestion of roasted or cooked garlic were detected in the urine and milk samples. Maximum concentrations of the metabolites were detected around 1–2 h after garlic intake. In some cases, a second maximum occurred around 6 h after ingestion of garlic. The cooking procedure led to a more important reduction of metabolite concentrations than the roasting procedure. These findings suggest that intake of processed garlic leads to a transfer of odor-active and odorless metabolites into milk, which contributes to early flavor learning during breastfeeding and may also have a physiological effect on the infant.

Role of drying techniques on physical, rehydration, flavor, bioactive compounds and antioxidant characteristics of garlic

Various drying techniques play an important role in foodstuff preservation. However, the role of different drying techniques on garlic quality is limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of vacuum freeze-drying (VFD), hot air drying (HAD), infrared hot air drying (IRHAD), relative humidity drying (RHD) and pulsed vacuum drying (PVD) on the physical, rehydration, flavor, bioactive compounds and antioxidant characteristics of garlic slices. Results showed that garlic slices treated with VFD had an attractive color, low shrinkage, low hardness, and the lowest rehydration capacity. The volume shrinkage ratio, thermal stability and storage stability of garlic slices after HAD were the highest. Different dried garlic samples had different specific flavor fingerprints. IRHAD and RHD dried samples showed the highest rehydration capacity, content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. The findings could provide a scientific basis to help in future large-scale production of good quality dried garlic products.

Food as medicine: targeting the uraemic phenotype in chronic kidney disease

The observation that unhealthy diets (those that are low in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and high in sugar, salt, saturated fat and ultra-processed foods) are a major risk factor for poor health outcomes has boosted interest in the concept of 'food as medicine'. This concept is especially relevant to metabolic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), in which dietary approaches are already used to ameliorate metabolic and nutritional complications. Increased awareness that toxic uraemic metabolites originate not only from intermediary metabolism but also from gut microbial metabolism, which is directly influenced by diet, has fuelled interest in the potential of 'food as medicine' approaches in CKD beyond the current strategies of protein, sodium and phosphate restriction. Bioactive nutrients can alter the composition and metabolism of the microbiota, act as modulators of transcription factors involved in inflammation and oxidative stress, mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction, act as senolytics and impact the epigenome by altering one-carbon metabolism. As gut dysbiosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, premature ageing and epigenetic changes are common features of CKD, these findings suggest that tailored, healthy diets that include bioactive nutrients as part of the foodome could potentially be used to prevent and treat CKD and its complications.

Pathophysiology of atherosclerosis: Association of risk factors and treatment strategies using plant-based bioactive compounds

Under physiological conditions, endothelial cells act as protective barrier which prevents direct contact of blood with circulating factors via production of tissue plasminogen activator. Risk factors of metabolic disorders are responsible to induce endothelial dysfunction and may consequently lead to prognosis of atherosclerosis. This article summarizes the process of atherosclerosis which involves number of sequences including formation and interaction of AGE-RAGE, activation of polyol pathway, protein kinase C, and hexosamine-mediated pathway. All these mechanisms can lead to the development of oxidative stress which may further aggravate condition. Different pharmacological interventions are being used to treat atherosclerosis, however, these might be associated with mild to severe side effects. Therefore, plant-based bioactive compounds having potential to combat and prevent atherosclerosis in diabetic patients are attaining recent focus. By understanding process of development and mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation, these bioactive compounds can be better option for future therapeutic interventions for atherosclerosis treatment. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Atherosclerosis is one of major underlying disorders of cardiovascular diseases which occur through multiple mechanisms and is associated with metabolic disorders. Conventional therapeutic interventions are not only used to treat atherosclerosis, but are also commonly associated with mild to severe side effects. Therefore, nowadays, bioactive compounds having potential to combat and prevent atherosclerosis in diabetic patients are preferred. By understanding mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation, bioactive compounds can be better understood for treatment of atherosclerosis. In this manuscript, we have focused on treatment strategies of atherosclerosis using bioactive compounds notably alkaloids and flavonoids having diverse pharmacological and therapeutic potentials with special focus on the mechanism of action of these bioactive compounds suitable for treatment of atherosclerosis. This manuscript will provide the scientific insights of bioactive compounds to researchers who are working in the area of drug discovery and development to control pathogenesis and development of atherosclerosis and its associated cardiometabolic disorders.

Larvicidal Activity of Essential Oils Against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

The Aedes aegypti is responsible for the transmission of arboviruses, which compromise public health. In the search for synthetic product alternatives, essential oils (OEs) have been highlighted by many researchers as natural insecticides. This systematic review (SR) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and its objective was to evaluate studies addressing OEs with larvicidal properties against Ae. aegypti, through electronic database searches (Pubmed, Science Direct and Scielo), covering an overview of the plant sources OEs, which plant parts were used, the extraction methods, analytical techniques, major and/or secondary constituents with greater percentages, as well as the LC50s responsible for larval mortality. Following study analysis, plants distributed across 32 families, 90 genera and 175 species were identified. The Lamiaceae, Myrtaceae, Piperaceae, Asteraceae, Rutaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Lauraceae families obtained the highest number of species with toxic properties against larvae from this vector. Practically all plant parts were found to be used for OE extraction. Hydrodistillation and steam distillation were the main extraction methods identified, with GC-MS/GC-FID representing the main analytical techniques used to reveal their chemical composition, especially of terpene compounds. In this context, OEs are promising alternatives for the investigation of natural, ecologically correct and biodegradable insecticides with the potential to be used in Ae. aegypti control programs.

The anticholesterol oxidation effects of garlic (Allium sativum L.) and leek (Allium ampeloprasum L.) in frozen fish burgers submitted to grilling

This study determined the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of garlic (Allium sativum L.) and leek (Allium ampeloprasum L.), as well as evaluated their anticholesterol oxidation potential in fish burgers. The total phenolic contents were 1.1 ± 0.1 mg GAE/g FW to garlic and 1.3 ± 0.4 mg GAE/g FW for leek. Leek extract showed antioxidant activity index (1.3 ± 0.01) in DPPH and β-carotene/linoleic acid assay (66.5 ± 1.6%); however, in ORAC assay, no statistic differences were observed (P > 0.05). Besides that, bioactive compounds of garlic and leek extracts were identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray by ionization-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS). Fish burgers were prepared using different concentrations of leek and garlic and stored at -18 °C for 90 days. Thus, at days 0, 30, 60, and 90, the samples were grilled and analyzed as to their cholesterol and cholesterol oxidation products contents. Storage and grilling led to an increase in cholesterol oxidation products; however, addition of garlic and leek minimized cholesterol oxidation products formation. After 90 days, samples containing 3% leek + 0.5% garlic ware the most effective in inhibiting the cholesterol oxides formation during storage and showed the lowest increase in cholesterol oxidation products content (21.16%). Thus, the findings of this research indicate the potential application of garlic and leek as natural inhibitors of cholesterol oxidation in food. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Garlic and leek have a set of bioactive compounds with a wide antioxidant capacity when used in meat foods such as fish burgers. Garlic and leek used as natural antioxidants perform well in the shelf life of fish burgers and can be substitutes for synthetic antioxidants in this type of product. The presence of both vegetables reduced the formation of prejudicial products to human health generated during the shelf life of the food.

Impact of Natural Compounds on Neurodegenerative Disorders: From Preclinical to Pharmacotherapeutics

Among the major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), are a huge socioeconomic burden. Over many centuries, people have sought a cure for NDDs from the natural herbals. Many medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites are reported with the ability to alleviate the symptoms of NDDs. The major mechanisms identified, through which phytochemicals exert their neuroprotective effects and potential maintenance of neurological health in ageing, include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, antiapoptotic, acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase inhibition and neurotrophic activities. This article reviews the mechanisms of action of some of the major herbal products with potential in the treatment of NDDs according to their molecular targets, as well as their regional sources (Asia, America and Africa). A number of studies demonstrated the beneficial properties of plant extracts or their bioactive compounds against NDDs. Herbal products may potentially offer new treatment options for patients with NDDs, which is a cheaper and culturally suitable alternative to conventional therapies for millions of people in the world with age-related NDDs.

Allicin pharmacology: Common molecular mechanisms against neuroinflammation and cardiovascular diseases

According to investigations in phytomedicine and ethnopharmacology, the therapeutic properties of garlic (Allium sativum) have been described by ancestral cultures. Notwithstanding, it is of particular concern to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this millenary empirical knowledge. Allicin (S-allyl prop-2-ene-1-sulfinothioate), a thioester of sulfenic acid, is one of the main bioactive compounds present in garlic, and it is responsible for the particular aroma of the spice. The pharmacological attributes of allicin integrate a broad spectrum of properties (e.g., anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antibiotic, antifungal, antiparasitic, antioxidant, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-tumoral activities, among others). The primary goal of the present article is to review and clarify the common molecular mechanisms by which allicin and its derivates molecules may perform its therapeutic effects on cardiovascular diseases and neuroinflammatory processes. The intricate interface connecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems suggests that the impairment of one organ could contribute to the dysfunction of the other. Allicin might target the cornerstone of the pathological processes underlying cardiovascular and neuroinflammatory disorders, like inflammation, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) hyperactivation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Indeed, the current evidence suggests that allicin improves mitochondrial function by enhancing the expression of HSP70 and NRF2, decreasing RAAS activation, and promoting mitochondrial fusion processes. Finally, allicin represents an attractive therapeutic alternative targeting the complex interaction between cardiovascular and neuroinflammatory disorders.

Effects of laying breeder hens dietary β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate supplementation on the growth performance, immunity, and jejunum morphology of their offspring chicks

This study evaluated the growth performance, immunity, and jejunum morphology of chicks hatched from laying breeder hens given dietary additive supplementation, as well as chicks receiving direct antibiotic supplementation in early life. Hy-line breeder hens were allotted to 2 groups with 3 replicates. A control group (CON) was fed a basal diet, and the treatment group (CCAB) received β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate in addition to basal diet for 5 wk. Breeder-hen eggs were collected and hatched. The chicks hatched from the CON group were assigned to 2 treatments: a chick control group (cCON) and a chick treatment group (Cipro) given ciprofloxacin lactate into drinking water; the cCON group, Cipro group, and the chicks hatched from the CCAB group (cCCAB) were fed the same diet for 4 wk. The results demonstrated that there were significant differences between the CON and CCAB groups in the serum levels of IgA, IgG, IgM (triple P < 0.01), lysozyme (P < 0.05), and β-defensin (P < 0.05). The body weights of the cCCAB group's chicks increased at 1, 7, and 28 D of age (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively), and those of the Cipro group's chicks increased at 7 and 21 D of age (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). The tibial lengths of the cCCAB group's chicks increased at 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 D of age (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, triple P < 0.01), and the lengths in the Cipro group increased at 7 and 14 D of age (P < 0.01, P < 0.01). Intestinal development, including intestinal length, jejunum morphology, and IgA positive cells, helps to explain these results. The breeder eggs from the CCAB group had higher IgG (P < 0.05) and IgM (P < 0.05) levels in the egg whites and higher IgA, IgG, and IgM levels (triple P < 0.01) in the egg yolks. In conclusion, β-carotene, curcumin, allicin, and sodium butyrate supplementation of laying breeder hen diets produced more advantages in growth performance and intestinal development in offspring than in chicks directly supplemented with antibiotics.

The Modern Use of an Ancient Plant: Exploring the Antioxidant and Nutraceutical Potential of the Maltese Mushroom (Cynomorium Coccineum L.)

In the continuous scientific search for new safe and effective drugs, there has recently been a rediscovery of natural substances as a potential reservoir of innovative therapeutic solutions for human health, with the prospect of integrating with and sometimes replacing conventional drugs. Cynomorium coccineum subsp. coccineum is a holoparasitic plant well known in ethnopharmacology, although its current use as a curative remedy is reported only in some ethnic groups of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Often known as ‘Maltese mushroom’ due to its unique appearance and the absence of chlorophyll, C. coccineum is present in almost all of the Mediterranean Basin. It is only recently that a few research groups have begun to look for confirmation of some of its traditional uses to highlight previously unknown biological activities. Here, we review the recent scientific findings on the plant’s phytochemistry and the most significant descriptions of some of its antioxidant and biological activities (antimicrobial, anticancer, pro-erectile, and anti-tyrosinase enzyme) both in vivo and in vitro. Some of these may be promising from the perspective of food and cosmetic formulations. The purpose of this review is to provide an initial impetus to those who, in the foreseeable future, will want to increase the knowledge and possible applications of this plant full of history, charm, and mystery.

New Aspects Towards a Molecular Understanding of the Allicin Immunostimulatory Mechanism via Colec12, MARCO, and SCARB1 Receptors

The allicin pleiotropic effects, which include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral, and antibacterial actions, were well demonstrated and correlated with various molecular pathways. The immunostimulatory mechanism of allicin has not been elucidated; however, there is a possible cytokine stimulation from immunoglobulin release caused by allicin. In this study, when Wistar female rats and CD19+ lymphocytes were treated with three different doses of allicin, immunoglobulins, glutathione, and oxidative stress markers were assayed. Molecular docking was performed between S-allylmercaptoglutathione (GSSA)—a circulating form of allicin in in vivo systems formed by the allicin interaction with glutathione (GSH)—and scavenger receptors class A and B from macrophages, as well as CD19+ B lymphocytes. Our data demonstrated a humoral immunostimulatory effect of allicin in rats and direct stimulation of B lymphocytes by S-allyl-mercapto-glutathione, both correlated with decreased catalase (CAT) activity. The molecular docking revealed that S-allyl-mercapto-glutathione interacting with Colec12, MARCO (class A), and SCARB1 (class B) scavenger receptors in in vitro tests demonstrates a direct stimulation of immunoglobulin secretion by GSSA in CD19+ B lymphocytes. These data collectively indicate that GSSA stimulates immunoglobulin secretion by binding on scavenger receptors class B type 1 (SCARB1) from CD19+ B lymphocytes.