Therapeutic Effects of Quercetin on Inflammation, Obesity, and Type 2 Diabetes

Demystifying phytoconstituent-derived nanomedicines in their immunoregulatory and therapeutic roles in inflammatory diseases

In the past decades, phytoconstituents have appeared as critical mediators for immune regulations among various diseases, both in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. These bioactive molecules, showing a broad range of biological functions, would hold tremendous promise for developing new therapeutics. The discovery of phytoconstituents' capability of functionally regulating immune cells and associating cytokines, suppressing systemic inflammation, and remodeling immunity have rapidly promoted the idea of their employment as anti-inflammatory agents. In this review, we discuss various roles of phyto-derived medicines in the field of inflammatory diseases, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and acute inflammatory disease such as COVID-19. Nevertheless, traditional phyto-derived medicines often concurred with their clinical administration limitations, such as their lack of cell specificity, inefficient cytoplasmic delivery, and rapid clearance by the immune system. As alternatives, phyto-derived nano-approaches may provide significant benefits. Both unmodified and engineered nanocarriers present the potential to serve as phytoconstituent delivery systems to improve therapeutic physio-chemical properties and pharmacokinetic profiles. Thus, the development of phytoconstituents' nano-delivery designs, their new and perspective approaches for therapeutical applications are elaborated herein.

Quercetin ameliorates salivary gland apoptosis and inflammation in primary Sjögren's syndrome through regulation of the leptin/OB-R signaling

Dry mouth is the main manifestation of Sjögren syndrome (SS). Quercetin has been reported to alleviate radiation-induced salivary gland damage, yet the effect of quercetin on SS-caused salivary gland damage remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of quercetin on SS-induced salivary gland damage and the mechanism underlying its therapeutic potential in SS. Here, NOD/Ltj mice were used to spontaneously mimic SS-induced salivary gland inflammation in vivo and salivary gland epithelial cells (SGECs) were stimulated by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) to mimic cell inflammation in vitro. Results showed that quercetin significantly reduced loss of saliva flow, salivary gland damage, cell apoptosis, and inflammatory response in NOD/Ltj mice. Quercetin treatment also significantly reduced the increased serum leptin (LP) levels in NOD/Ltj mice. Furthermore, quercetin blocked the increases in the expression of obesity receptor (OB-R) and its downstream Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling in the salivary glands. In vitro experiments confirmed that quercetin could protect SGECs from IFN-γ-induced cell apoptosis and inflammation through the LP/OB-R-activated JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Hence, quercetin might protect against SS-induced salivary gland damage by relieving cell apoptosis and inflammation by inhibiting the LP/OB-R signaling, providing a new perspective for treating SS-induced dry mouth.

The NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway: A Review of Mechanisms and Inhibitors for the Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that plays a pivotal role in regulating the innate immune system and inflammatory signaling. Upon activation by PAMPs and DAMPs, NLRP3 oligomerizes and activates caspase-1 which initiates the processing and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. NLRP3 is the most extensively studied inflammasome to date due to its array of activators and aberrant activation in several inflammatory diseases. Studies using small molecules and biologics targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway have shown positive outcomes in treating various disease pathologies by blocking chronic inflammation. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in understanding the NLRP3 mechanism, its role in disease pathology, and provide a broad review of therapeutics discovered to target the NLRP3 pathway and their challenges.

Oral Co-Supplementation of Curcumin, Quercetin, and Vitamin D3 as an Adjuvant Therapy for Mild to Moderate Symptoms of COVID-19—Results From a Pilot Open-Label, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Curcumin, quercetin, and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) are common natural ingredients of human nutrition and reportedly exhibit promising anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, broad-spectrum antiviral, and antioxidant activities.

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic benefits of a single oral formulation containing supplements curcumin, quercetin, and cholecalciferol (combinedly referred to here as CQC) as an adjuvant therapy for early-stage of symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a pilot open-label, randomized controlled trial conducted at Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan.

Methods: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed, mild to moderate symptomatic COVID-19 outpatients were randomized to receive either the standard of care (SOC) (n = 25) (control arm) or a daily oral co-supplementation of 168 mg curcumin, 260 mg quercetin, and 9 µg (360 IU) of cholecalciferol, as two oral soft capsules b.i.d. as an add-on to the SOC (n = 25) (CQC arm) for 14 days. The SOC includes paracetamol with or without antibiotic (azithromycin). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RT-PCR test, acute symptoms, and biochemistry including C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, and complete blood count were evaluated at baseline and follow-up day seven.

Results: Patients who received the CQC adjuvant therapy showed expedited negativization of the SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test, i.e., 15 (60.0%) vs. five (20.0%) of the control arm, p = 0.009. COVID-19- associated acute symptoms were rapidly resolved in the CQC arm, i.e., 15 (60.0%) vs. 10 (40.0%) of the control arm, p = 0.154. Patients in the CQC arm experienced a greater fall in serum CRP levels, i.e., from (median (IQR) 34.0 (21.0, 45.0) to 11.0 (5.0, 16.0) mg/dl as compared to the control arm, i.e., from 36.0 (28.0, 47.0) to 22.0 (15.0, 25.0) mg/dl, p = 0.006. The adjuvant therapy of co-supplementation of CQC was safe and well-tolerated by all 25 patients and no treatment-emergent effects, complications, side effects, or serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: The co-supplementation of CQC may possibly have a therapeutic role in the early stage of COVID-19 infection including speedy negativization of the SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test, resolution of acute symptoms, and modulation of the hyperinflammatory response. In combination with routine care, the adjuvant co-supplementation of CQC may possibly help in the speedy recovery from early-stage mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19. Further research is warranted.

Clinical Trial Registration:Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05130671

Flavonols and dihydroflavonols inhibit the main protease activity of SARS-CoV-2 and the replication of human coronavirus 229E

Since December 2019, the deadly novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the current COVID-19 pandemic. To date, vaccines are available in the developed countries to prevent the infection of this virus; however, medicines are necessary to help control COVID-19. Human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) causes the common cold. The main protease (M^pro) is an essential enzyme required for the multiplication of these two viruses in the host cells, and thus is an appropriate candidate to screen potential medicinal compounds. Flavonols and dihydroflavonols are two groups of plant flavonoids. In this study, we report docking simulation with two M^pro enzymes and five flavonols and three dihydroflavonols, in vitro inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 M^pro, and in vitro inhibition of the HCoV 229E replication. The docking simulation results predicted that (+)-dihydrokaempferol, (+)- dihydroquercetin, (+)-dihydromyricetin, kaempferol, quercetin, myricentin, isoquercitrin, and rutin could bind to at least two subsites (S1, S1’, S2, and S4) in the binding pocket and inhibit the activity of SARS-CoV-2 M^pro. Their affinity scores ranged from −8.8 to −7.4 (kcal/mol). Likewise, these compounds were predicted to bind and inhibit the HCoV-229E M^pro activity with affinity scores ranging from −7.1 to −7.8 (kcal/mol). In vitro inhibition assays showed that seven available compounds effectively inhibited the SARS-CoV-2 M^pro activity and their IC₅₀ values ranged from 0.125 to 12.9 μM. Five compounds inhibited the replication of HCoV-229E in Huh-7 cells. These findings indicate that these antioxidative flavonols and dihydroflavonols are promising candidates for curbing the two viruses.

Small molecule compound M12 reduces vascular permeability in obese mice via blocking endothelial TRPV4-Nox2 interaction

Transient receptor potential channel TRPV4 and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (Nox2) are involved in oxidative stress that increases endothelial permeability. It has been shown that obesity enhances the physical association of TRPV4 and Nox2, but the role of TRPV4-Nox2 association in obesity has not been clarified. In this study we investigated the function of TRPV4-Nox2 complex in reducing oxidative stress and regulating abnormal vascular permeability in obesity. Obesity was induced in mice by feeding a high-fat diet (HFD) for 14 weeks. The physical interaction between TRPV4 and Nox2 was measured using FRET, co-immunoprecipitation and GST pull-down assays. The functional interaction was measured by rhodamine phalloidin, CM-H₂DCFDA in vitro, the fluorescent dye dihydroethidium (DHE) staining assay, and the Evans blue permeability assay in vivo. We demonstrated that TRPV4 physically and functionally associated with Nox2, and this physical association was enhanced in aorta of obese mice. Furthermore, we showed that interrupting TRPV4-Nox2 coupling by TRPV4 knockout, or by treatment with a specific Nox2 inhibitor Nox2 dstat or a specific TRPV4 inhibitor HC067046 significantly attenuated obesity-induced ROS overproduction in aortic endothelial cells, and reversed the abnormal endothelial cytoskeletal structure. In order to discover small molecules disrupting the over-coupling of TPRV4 and Nox2 in obesity, we performed molecular docking analysis and found that compound M12 modulated TRPV4-Nox2 association, reduced ROS production, and finally reversed disruption of the vascular barrier in obesity. Together, this study, for the first time, provides evidence for the TRPV4 physically interacting with Nox2. TRPV4-Nox2 complex is a potential drug target in improving oxidative stress and disruption of the vascular barrier in obesity. Compound M12 targeting TRPV4-Nox2 complex can improve vascular barrier function in obesity.

Modulation of Inflammation by Plant-Derived Nutraceuticals in Tendinitis

Tendinitis (tendinopathy) is a pro-inflammatory and painful tendon disease commonly linked with mechanical overuse and associated injuries, drug abuse, and lifestyle factors (including poor diet and physical inactivity) that causes significant healthcare expenditures due to its high incidence. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is one of the major pro-inflammatory transcription factors, along with other inflammation signaling pathways, triggered by a variety of stimuli, including cytokines, endotoxins, physical and chemical stressors, hypoxia, and other pro-inflammatory factors. Their activation is known to regulate the expression of a multitude of genes involved in inflammation, degradation, and cell death. The pathogenesis of tendinitis is still poorly understood, whereas efficient and sustainable treatment is missing. Targeting drug suppression of the key inflammatory regulators represents an effective strategy for tendinitis therapy, but requires a comprehensive understanding of their principles of action. Conventional monotherapies are often ineffective and associated with severe side effects in patients. Therefore, agents that modulate multiple cellular targets represent therapeutic treatment potential. Plant-derived nutraceuticals have been shown to act as multi-targeting agents against tendinitis via various anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, whereat they were able to specifically modulate numerous signaling pathways, including NF-κB, p38/MAPK, JNK/STAT3, and PI3K/Akt, thus down-regulating inflammatory processes. This review discusses the utility of herbal nutraceuticals that have demonstrated safety and tolerability as anti-inflammatory agents for the prevention and treatment of tendinitis through the suppression of catabolic signaling pathways. Limitations associated with the use of nutraceuticals are also described.

Exploring the role of senescence inducers and senotherapeutics as targets for anticancer natural products

During the last few decades, cancer has remained one of the deadliest diseases that endanger human health, emphasizing urgent drug discovery. Cellular senescence has gained a great deal of attention in recent years because of its link to the development of cancer therapy. Senescent cells are incapable of proliferating due to irreversibly inhibited the initiation of the cell cycle pathways. However, senescent cells aggregate in tissues and produce a pro-inflammatory secretome called senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that can cause serious harmful effects if not managed properly. There is mounting evidence that senescent cells lead to various phases of tumorigenesis in various anatomical sites, owing mostly to the paracrine activities of the SASP. Therefore, a new treatment field called senotherapeutics has been established. Senotherapeutics are newly developed anticancer agents that have been demonstrated to inhibit cancer effectively. In light of recent findings, several promising natural products have been identified as senescence inducers and senotherapeutics, including, miliusanes, epigallocatechin gallate, phloretin, silybin, resveratrol, genistein, sulforaphane, quercetin, allicin, fisetin, piperlongumine, berberine, triptolide, tocotrienols and curcumin analogs. Several of them have already been validated through preclinical trials and exert an enormous potential for clinical trials. This review article focuses on and summarises the latest advances on cellular senescence and its potential as a target for cancer treatment and highlights the well-known natural products as senotherapeutics for cancer treatment.

A Network-Biology led Computational Drug repurposing Strategy to prioritize therapeutic options for COVID-19

The alarming pandemic situation of novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (nSARS-CoV-2) infection, high drug development cost and slow process of drug discovery have made repositioning of existing drugs for therapeutics a popular alternative. It involves the repurposing of existing safe compounds which results in low overall development costs and shorter development timeline. In the present study, a computational network-biology approach has been used for comparing three candidate drugs i.e. quercetin, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), and 2-deoxy-glucose (2-DG) to be effectively repurposed against COVID-19. For this, the associations between these drugs and genes of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) diseases were retrieved and a directed drug-gene-gene-disease interaction network was constructed. Further, to quantify the associations between a target gene and a disease gene, the shortest paths from the target gene to the disease genes were identified. A vector DV was calculated to represent the extent to which a disease gene was influenced by these drugs. Quercetin was quantified as the best among the three drugs, suited for repurposing with DV of -70.19, followed by NAC with DV of -39.99 and 2-DG with DV of -13.71. The drugs were also assessed for their safety and efficacy balance (in terms of therapeutic index) using network properties. It was found that quercetin was a forerunner than other two drugs.

The potential biological effects of quercetin based on pharmacokinetics and multi-targeted mechanism in vivo

Quercetin is a plant-derived polyphenol flavonoid that has been proven to be effective for many diseases. However, the mechanism and in vivo metabolism of quercetin remains to be clarified. It achieves a wide range of biological effects through various metabolites, gut microbiota and its metabolites, systemic mediators produced by inflammation and oxidation, as well as by multiple mechanisms. The all-round disease treatment of quercetin is achieved through the organic combination of multiple channels. Therefore, this article clarifies the metabolic process of quercetin in the body, and explores the new pattern of action of quercetin in the treatment of diseases.

Sarcococca saligna Hydroalcoholic Extract Ameliorates Arthritis in Complete Freund's Adjuvant-Induced Arthritic Rats via Modulation of Inflammatory Biomarkers and Suppression of Oxidative Stress Markers

Traditionally, Sarcococca saligna has been used for the treatment of arthritis and many other inflammatory disorders. The current study was planned to give scientific evidence to this traditional use of S. saligna. Phytochemical profiling of SSME was carried out by using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), 150 μL was injected in the subplantar region of the left hind paw to induce arthritis in rats. Aqueous methanolic extract of S. saligna (SSME) was administered orally at 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg dose from the 7th day to the 28th day of the study to explore its anti-arthritic potential. Histopathological and radiographic assessment of joints and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses were performed. Determination of oxidative stress biomarkers in the serum was also carried out. ESI-MS/MS identified ten such phytoconstituents which have reported strong anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. The SSME extract considerably reduced paw inflammation and arthritic index, subdued cachexia, and significantly improved biochemical and hematological changes. Oxidative stress decreased in SSME administered rats dose-dependently. Histopathological and radiographic evaluations also showed the anti-arthritic activity of SSME, which was associated with the downregulation of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor (NF)-kB, COX-2, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β and upregulation of I-kB, IL-4, and IL-10, in contrast to disease group rats. The outcomes of the study proposed that S. saligna have anti-arthritic potential, supporting its traditional use for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Health Benefits of Quercetin in Age-Related Diseases

Polyphenols are the known group of phytochemicals that essentially consists of phenolic rings. These are the plant product present in varied fruits and vegetables. These secondary metabolites perform a protective function in plants from environmental and biological stress. When consumed as a human diet these are also known to prevent various age-associated diseases. Polyphenols are known to possess antioxidant properties and protect against oxidative stress. The literature survey was carried out using databases such as PubMed, Science direct and Springer. The research articles from last 10–12 years were selected for this review based on its relevancy with the topic. The articles selected was mainly focused on quercetin and its health benefits. The present review highlights the main functions of a flavonoid, quercetin. Quercetin is among the widely occurring polyphenol, found abundantly in nature. It is commonly present in different plant products. Onion is known to have the highest quantity of quercetin. This plant compound is possessed antioxidant properties and is considered to have a protective function against aging. It is known to be present in both free and conjugated forms. Quercetin has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, and anti-viral properties. The molecule is lipophilic and can easily cross the BBB (Blood-Brain Barrier) and hence protects from neurodegenerative diseases. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated the role of quercetin and here a detailed review of quercetin as a curative agent in neurodegeneration, diabetes, cancer, and inflammation has been carried out. Studies have proved that quercetin plays a crucial role in the prevention of age-related disorders. Quercetin is a potent antioxidant which is currently being used in various pharmaceuticals. Properties of quercetin can be further explored in various other disorders. Nanoformulations and liposomal formulations of quercetin can be made to treat other age associated diseases.

A critical evaluation of risk to reward ratio of quercetin supplementation for COVID-19 and associated comorbid conditions

The interim results of the large, multinational trials on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) using a combination of antiviral drugs appear to have little to no effect on the 28‐day mortality or the in‐hospital course. Therefore, there is a still vivid interest in finding alternate re‐purposed drugs and nutrition supplements, which can halt or slow the disease severity. We review here the multiple preclinical studies, partially supported by clinical evidence showing the quercetin's possible therapeutic/prophylaxis efficacy against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) as well as comorbidities like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes mellitus, obesity, coagulopathy, and hypertension. Currently, 14 interventional clinical trials are underway assessing the efficacy of quercetin along with other antiviral drugs/nutritional supplements as prophylaxis/treatment option against COVID‐19. The present review is tempting to suggest that, based on circumstantial scientific evidence and preliminary clinical data, the flavonoid quercetin can ameliorate COVID‐19 infection and symptoms acting in concert on two parallel and independent paths: inhibiting key factors responsible for SARS‐CoV‐2 infections and mitigating the clinical manifestations of the disease in patients with comorbid conditions. Despite the broad therapeutic properties of quercetin, further high power randomized clinical trials are needed to firmly establish its clinical efficacy against COVID‐19.

Development of Poly(lipoic acid) Nanoparticles with Improved Oral Bioavailability and Hepatoprotective Effects of Quercetin

Quercetin (QUE)-loaded poly(lipoic acid) nanoparticles (QUE/pLA) were developed to improve chemical stability in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, oral bioavailability (BA), and pharmacological properties of QUE. QUE/pLA was prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation with ultrasonication followed by freeze-drying. Its mean particle size was 185 nm, with a high encapsulation efficiency of QUE (84.8%). QUE/pLA exhibited sustained release of QUE with improved dissolution compared with crystalline QUE and significantly enhanced chemical stability under physiological pH in the GI tract. Orally dosed QUE/pLA (50 mg QUE/kg) in rats exhibited significantly prolonged systemic exposure, possibly due to the sustained release of QUE. The oral BAs of QUE in QUE/pLA and crystalline QUE groups were 29 and 0.19%, respectively, suggesting significant enhancement of oral absorbability, likely due to the improved stability and dissolution property of QUE in the GI tracts. In hepatic injury model rats, QUE/pLA (50 mg QUE/kg) led to marked reductions in the plasma biomarker levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase by 70 and 46%, respectively, compared with the vehicle group. QUE/pLA also showed improved antioxidant potential as evidenced by the enhanced activities of hepatic glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and a decrease in the level of malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation. Based on these findings, QUE/pLA might be a promising option to improve both the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical properties of QUE.

Ginkgo biloba in the Aging Process: A Narrative Review

Neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, insulin resistance, cancer, and other degenerative processes commonly appear with aging. Ginkgo biloba (GB) is associated with several health benefits, including memory and cognitive improvement, in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and cancer. Its antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions have effects on cognition and other conditions associated with aging-related processes, such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of the effects of GB in some age-related conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, CVD, and cancer. PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched, and the PRISMA guidelines were applied. Fourteen clinical trials were selected; the studies showed that GB can improve memory, cognition, memory scores, psychopathology, and the quality of life of patients. Moreover, it can improve cerebral blood flow supply, executive function, attention/concentration, non-verbal memory, and mood, and decrease stress, fasting serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin levels, body mass index, waist circumference, biomarkers of oxidative stress, the stability and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and inflammation. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that the use of GB can provide benefits in the prevention and treatment of aging-related conditions.

The effects of phytochemicals and herbal bio-active compounds on tumour necrosis factor-α in overweight and obese individuals: a clinical review

Obesity is abnormal fat accumulation in the body which acts as a risk factor for various cardiometabolic states. Adipose tissue in excess can release inflammatory factors, including TNF-α and IL-6, and suppress adiponectin production. TNF-α increases the levels of IL-6 and acute phase reactants such as C-reactive protein. Inflammation has a crucial role in developing and progressing various cardiometabolic diseases and a wide range of obesity-related complications. It has been shown that TNF-α has a significant role in the development of insulin resistance. Recently, a growing body of evidence has focused on herbal medicine, phytochemicals and natural bioactive compounds as inexpensive, relatively easy accessible agents with low adverse effects to reduce inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and simultaneously decrease insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and dyslipidemia in obesity. The main focus of the current review is to summarize the results of the studies, which assessed the effects of phytochemicals and herbal bio-active compounds on serum TNF-α in subjects with overweight or obesity. This review suggests that herbal medicine have favorable effects on the reduction of TNF-α concentration; however, the results were not uniform for different products. Among the reviewed plants, ginger, ginseng, resveratrol, and flaxseed had more promising effects.

Exploring the common gene signatures and pathogeneses of obesity with Alzheimer's disease via transcriptome data

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a complex condition that influences several organ systems and physiologic systems. Obesity (OB) is closely linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the interrelationship between them remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the key genes and potential molecular mechanisms in obesity and AD.

METHODS

The microarray data for OB and AD were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to delineate the co-expression modules related to OB and AD. The shared genes existing in obesity and AD were identified through biological process analyses using the DAVID website, which then constructed the Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) Network and selected the hub genes by Cytoscape. The results were validated in other microarray data by differential gene analysis. Moreover, the hub gene expressions were further determined in mice by qPCR.

RESULTS

The WGCNA identifies five modules and four modules as significant modules with OB and AD, respectively. Functional analysis of shared genes emphasized that inflammation response and mitochondrial functionality were common features in the pathophysiology of OB and AD. The results of differential gene analysis in other microarray data were extremely similar to them. Then six important hub genes were selected and identified using cytoHubba, including MMP9, PECAM1, C3AR1, IL1R1, PPARGC1α, and COQ3. Finally, we validated the hub gene expressions via qPCR.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work revealed the high inflammation/immune response and mitochondrial impairment in OB patients, which might be a crucial susceptibility factor for AD. Meanwhile, we identified novel gene candidates such as MMP9, PECAM1, C3AR1, IL1R1, PPARGC1α, and COQ3 that could be used as biomarkers or potential therapeutic targets for OB with AD.

Quercetin improves the adipose inflammatory response and insulin signaling to reduce "real-world" particulate matter-induced insulin resistance

Numerous epidemiological data and experimental studies support a strong link between fine particulate matter (less than 2.5 mm in aerodynamic diameter, PM_2.5) exposure and the development of insulin resistance/type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Quercetin (Que), a flavonoid compound with anti-inflammatory effects, has been confirmed to improve glucose metabolic disorders in rodents and humans. In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of particulate matter (PM)-induced glucose metabolic disorder and subsequently examined the protective effect and mechanism of quercetin supplementation. Male C57BL/6 mice in the control group and PM group were exposed to ambient filtered air (FA) or PM (6 h/day, 7 days/week) for 18 weeks. Mice in the Que group were exposed to PM for 18 weeks and administered Que (50 or 100 mg/kg bw). Glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and systemic and visceral white adipose tissue (vWAT) inflammatory responses were measured. The expression of proteins involved in insulin signal transduction in vWAT was assessed. Chronic PM exposure caused systemic and vWAT inflammation characterized by an increase in serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels and increased vWAT macrophage filtration, triggering NLRP3 inflammasome activation, impairing the classic glucose metabolism signal in vWAT, and inducing whole-body insulin resistance. Moreover, Que administration significantly alleviated systemic and vWAT inflammation, abolished NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and improved signaling abnormalities characteristic of insulin resistance in vWAT and adipocytes. Based on these findings, chronic PM exposure activated the NLRP3 inflammasome and subsequently caused systemic and WAT inflammation and impaired insulin signaling in vWAT and adipocytes. Most importantly, Que administration inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation and insulin signaling in vWAT to improve these adverse effects.

Regulatory Effect of Resveratrol on Inflammation Induced by Lipopolysaccharides via Reprograming Intestinal Microbes and Ameliorating Serum Metabolism Profiles

The purpose of this study was to explore the regulatory effect of resveratrol (RES) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation and its influence on intestinal microorganisms and serum atlas in murine models during the development of inflammation to explore a novel method for the regulation of inflammation. Mice were randomly assigned to three groups: control (CON), LPS, and RES–LPS. The results showed that RES mitigated the inflammatory damage to the intes-tines and liver induced by LPS. Compared with the LPS group, RES treatment decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ, myeloperoxidase, and alanine aminotransferase in the liver. Serum metabolic profile monitoring showed that, compared with the CON group, LPS decreased the levels of five metabolites, including cycloartomunin and glycerol triundecanoate, and increased the levels of eight metabolites, including N-linoleoyl taurine and PE(O-16:0/20:5(5Z), 8Z, 11Z, 14Z, 17Z). Conversely, RES treatment increased the levels of eight metabolites, including pantothenic acid, homovanillic acid, and S-(formylmethyl)glutathione, and reduced seven metabolites, including lysoPE(20:4(8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)/0:0) and 13-cis-retinoic acid, etc., in comparison with the LPS group. Moreover, RES treatment alleviated the negative effects of LPS on intestinal microbes by reducing, for instance, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Alistipes, and increasing the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. These results suggest that RES has great potential for preventing in-flammation.

Therapeutic Influence on Important Targets Associated with Chronic Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Cancer Treatment

Simple Summary

There is no doubt that the need for new effective methods of cancer treatment remains challenging, as cancer is the second cause of death based on the number of cases in the world. In this review, we investigated the role of one of the leading determinants in the development and progression of various types of cancer—oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as clinical and experimental data from the studies of promising drugs of natural origin, such as flavonoids, that target these stages of oncogenesis. This can all help in the expansion and systematization of the existing knowledge regarding the fight against cancer, the facilitation of the development of effective anti-cancer drugs, and the progression of research in this field, in order to improve the treatment of these disorders.

Abstract

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are the interconnected pathological processes, which lead to cancer initiation and progression. The growing level of oxidative and inflammatory damage was shown to increase cancer severity and contribute to tumor spread. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is associated with the reduced capacity of the endogenous cell defense mechanisms and/or metabolic imbalance, is the main contributor to oxidative stress. An abnormal level of ROS was defined as a predisposing factor for the cell transformation that could trigger pro-oncogenic signaling pathways, induce changes in gene expression, and facilitate accumulation of mutations, DNA damage, and genomic instability. Additionally, the activation of transcription factors caused by a prolonged oxidative stress, including NF-κB, p53, HIF1α, etc., leads to the expression of several genes responsible for inflammation. The resulting hyperactivation of inflammatory mediators, including TNFα, TGF-β, interleukins, and prostaglandins can contribute to the development of neoplasia. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were shown to trigger adaptive reactions and the acquisition of resistance by tumor cells to apoptosis, while promoting proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. Moreover, the chronic inflammatory response leads to the excessive production of free radicals, which further aggravate the initiated reactions. This review summarizes the recent data and progress in the discovery of mechanisms that associate oxidative stress and chronic inflammation with cancer onset and metastasis. In addition, the review provides insights for the development of therapeutic approaches and the discovery of natural substances that will be able to simultaneously inhibit several key oncological and inflammation-related targets.

Low dose of quercetin-loaded pectin/casein microparticles reduces the oxidative stress in arthritic rats

AIMS

Quercetin has been investigated as an agent to treat rheumatoid arthritis. At high doses it improves inflammation and the antioxidant status of arthritic rats, but it also exerts mitochondriotoxic and pro-oxidant activities. Beneficial effects of quercetin have not been found at low doses because of its chemical instability and low bioavailability. In the hope of overcoming these problems this study investigated the effects of long-term administration of quercetin-loaded pectin/casein microparticles on the oxidative status of liver and brain of rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis.

MAIN METHODS

Particle morphology was viewed with transmission electron microscopy and the encapsulation efficiency was measured indirectly by X-ray diffraction. Quercetin microcapsules (10 mg/Kg) were orally administered to rats during 60 days. Inflammation indicators and oxidative stress markers were measured in addition to the respiratory activity and ROS production in isolated mitochondria.

KEY FINDINGS

Quercetin was efficiently encapsulated inside the polymeric matrix, forming a solid amorphous solution. The administration of quercetin microparticles to arthritic rats almost normalized protein carbonylation, lipid peroxidation, the levels of reactive oxygen species as well as the reduced glutathione content in both liver and brain. The paw edema in arthritic rats was not responsive, but the plasmatic activity of ALT and the mitochondrial respiration were not affected by quercetin, indicating absence of mitochondriotoxic or hepatotoxic actions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Quercetin-loaded pectin/casein microcapsules orally administered at a low dose improve oxidative stress of arthritic rats without a strong anti-inflammatory activity. This supports the long-term use of quercetin as an antioxidant agent to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cynanchum acutum L. Isolated Flavonoids Using Experimentally Induced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Biological and In Silico Investigation for NF-κB Pathway/miR-146a Expression Modulation

Cynanchum acutum L. is a climbing vine that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. Using different chromatographic techniques, seven compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract of the plant. The isolated compounds include six flavonoid compounds identified as rutin (1), quercetin-3-O-neohesperidoside (2), quercetin-3-O-β-galactoside (3), isoquercitrin (4), quercetin (5), and kaempferol 3-O-β-glucoside (6), in addition to a coumarin, scopoletin (7). The structures of the compounds were elucidated based on 1D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS), and by comparison with data reported in the literature. The first five compounds were selected for in vivo investigation of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. All tested compounds significantly reduced oxidative stress and increased erythrocyte lysate levels of antioxidant enzymes, along with the amelioration of the serum levels of inflammatory markers. Upregulation of miR-146a expression and downregulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression were detected in the liver and adipose tissue of rats treated with the isolated flavonoids. Results from the biological investigation and those from the validated molecular modeling approach on two biological targets of the NF-κB pathway managed to highlight the superior anti-inflammatory activity of quercetin-3-O-galactoside (3) and quercetin (5), as compared to other bioactive metabolites.

Mechanisms of Rhizoma Coptidis against type 2 diabetes mellitus explored by network pharmacology combined with molecular docking and experimental validation

This study systematically explored the underlying mechanism of Rhizoma Coptidis against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by using network pharmacology and molecular docking and experimental validation. We retrieved and screened active compounds of Rhizoma Coptidis and corresponding T2DM-related targets across multiple databases. PPI networks of the genes were constructed using STRING, and the core targets were screened via topological analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed by using DAVID. Finally, molecular docking and experimental studies were performed after bioinformatic analysis for verification. There were 14 active compounds and 19 core targets of Rhizoma Coptidis-T2DM, of which quercetin was identified as the main compound and IL6, VEGFA and TNF were the most significant core targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that Rhizoma Coptidis ameliorated T2DM by regulating multiple biological processes and pathways. Docking studies indicated that IL6, VEGFA and TNF could stably bind with all active compounds of Rhizoma Coptidis. The results of our experiments revealed that Rhizoma Coptidis could inhibit the expression of IL6 and TNFα and enhance islet cell viability. This study suggests anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects of Rhizoma Coptidis on T2DM, thereby providing a scientific basis and new insight for further research on the antidiabetic effect of Rhizoma Coptidis.

The roles of quercetin in diabetes mellitus and related metabolic disorders; special focus on the modulation of gut microbiota: A comprehensive review

Quercetin is a dietary flavonoid that can affect the balance between anti-oxidant defense system and oxidative stress. A number of studies showed the positive effects of quercetin on diabetes mellitus and related metabolic disorders through different pathways such as gut flora. However, findings are conflicting. In addition, it seems no studies have summarized all potential mechanisms of quercetin in diabetes mellitus, so far. Therefore, the aims of the present comprehensive review were to provide an overview on biological and biochemical characteristics of quercetin and investigate the effect of quercetin on diabetes mellitus and related metabolic disorders by focusing on its effects on the modulation of gut microbiota. For this purpose, findings of In vitro, animal studies, clinical trials, and review studies with the English language published until January 2021 were summarized. They were identified through electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) and Google Scholar. Findings showed that quercetin can be an effective component for improving glycemic status and other metabolic disorders related to diabetes mellitus based on In vitro and animal studies. However, environmental factors, food processing and using nanoformulations can affect its efficacy in human studies. Several potential mechanisms, including the modulation of gut flora are proposed for its actions. However, due to limited clinical trials and contradictory findings, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to make a decision on the efficacy of supplementation with quercetin as a complementary therapy for the management of diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorders, and modulating gut flora.

Ameliorative Effect of Annona muricata (Graviola) Extract on Hyperglycemia Induced Hepatic Damage in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

Annona muricata (AM) is evergreen plant of the Annonaceae family and known to have anticancer and antidiabetic effects. However, anti-diabetic mechanisms of AM extracts (AME) associated with hepatic glucose regulation and lipid metabolism remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of AME extracted on hepatic damage in diabetic mice. Diabetes was induced by a high-fat diet with two-times streptozotocin (STZ) injection (60 mg/kg BW) in C57BL/6 male mice. The diabetic mice were daily administered with AME (50 or 100 mg/kg BW) by gavage for 9 weeks. Biomarkers related to energy metabolism and insulin signaling were examined to identify the effect of AME on hyperglycemia induced hepatic damage. AME supplementation reduced levels of FBG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR and hepatic lipid profiles as well as enhanced insulin signaling by increased the protein levels of IRS-1 accompanied GLUT2 in diabetic mice. Especially low dose of AME showed the beneficial effect of reducing oxidative stress (4-HNE, protein carbonyls, Nrf2, NQO1) and improved hepatic morphology demonstrated by lipid droplets along with upregulation of lipophagy (pAMPK, p-mTOR/mTOR, LC3-2/LC3-1) in diabetic mice. Moreover, AME supplementation ameliorated hepatic lipid metabolism (FAS, SREBP1c, C/EBPα, PPARγ, CPT1A, PPARα) and energy metabolism (pAMPK, PGC1α) in diabetic mice. Taken together, this study suggested that AME could be helpful to prevent hepatic abnormality by regulation of insulin signaling associated with energy metabolism and autophagy in diabetes.

Hypoglycemic active principles from the leaves of Bauhinia holophylla: Comprehensive phytochemical characterization and in vivo activity profile

Bauhinia holophylla leaves, also known as "pata-de-vaca", are traditionally used in Brazil to treat diabetes. Although the hypoglycemic activity of this medicinal plant has already been described, the active compounds responsible for the hypoglycemic activity have not yet been identified. To rapidly obtain two fractions in large amounts compatible with further in vivo assay, the hydroalcoholic extract of B. holophylla leaves was fractionated by Vacuum Liquid Chromatography and then purified by medium pressure liquid chromatography combined with an in vivo Glucose Tolerance Test in diabetic mice. This approach resulted in the identification of eleven compounds (1-11), including an original non-cyanogenic cyanoglucoside derivative. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance and high-resolution mass spectrometry. One of the major compounds of the leaves, lithospermoside (3), exhibited strong hypoglycemic activity in diabetic mice at the doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg b.w. and prevents body weight loss. The proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) quantification revealed that the hydroalcoholic leaves extract contained 1.7% of lithospermoside (3) and 3.1% of flavonoids. The NMR analysis also revealed the presence of a high amount of pinitol (4) (9.5%), a known compound possessing in vivo hypoglycemic activity. The hypoglycemic properties of the hydroalcoholic leaves extract and the traditional water infusion extracts of the leaves of B. holophylla seem thus to be the result of the activity of three unrelated classes of compounds. Such results support to some extent the traditional use of Bauhinia holophylla to treat diabetes.

Evidence and Potential Mechanisms of Jin-Gui Shen-Qi Wan as a Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a subtype of diabetes mellitus characterized by progressive dysfunction of β-cell insulin secretion and insulin resistance. Jīn-Guì Shèn-Qì Wán (JGSQW) has for many years been widely used in clinical practice as a treatment for T2DM. However, its effect remains unknown.

Objectives: This study aims to summarize the clinical evidence of the effect of JGSQW on glucose and lipid metabolism in T2DM and the potential mechanisms underlying this effect.

Methods: Six databases were searched without language or publication status restrictions. Data were extracted to a predefined template for synthesis.

Results: Fourteen studies with 1586 participants were included in this meta-analysis. All 14 studies were judged to be at high risk of bias. JGSQW is safe for T2DM patients. Pooled results indicated that combination treatment results in a reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (mean difference (MD) −0.49%; 95% CI −0.67 to −0.31), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (MD −0.84; 95% CI −1.19 to −0.49), and 2-hour postprandial glucose 2hBG (MD −1.38; 95% CI −1.60 to −1.16). No significant difference in glucose metabolism was observed between JGSQW and hypoglycemic agents. The available evidence was insufficient to determine the effects on lipid metabolism. Sensitivity analyses indicated that these results were robust.

Conclusion: By combining the available evidence, we found that JGSQW is safe for T2DM patients. Compared with hypoglycemic agents alone, combination treatment with JGSQW enhances the effect on glucose metabolism in patients with T2DM. We found no difference in the efficacy of JGSQW alone compared to hypoglycemic agents alone. In terms of lipid metabolism, the current evidence is insufficient and too inconsistent for us to draw firm conclusions, so further studies are needed.

Hu-Zhang-Qing-Mai-Yin Inhibits Proliferation of Human Retinal Capillary Endothelial Cells Exposed to High Glucose

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the serious complications of diabetes and an important cause of blindness. Despite much research on the pathogenesis of DR, there is still a lack of safe and effective treatment methods. Hu-zhang-qing-mai-yin (HZQMY), a Chinese medicine formula, has been clinically used in the safe and effective treatment of DR for many years. However, the systematic pharmacological research is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-DR effects of HZQMY and explore the possible mechanism involved. Methods: The constituents of HZQMY were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. DR model was established by high glucose simulation on human retinal capillary endothelial cells (HRCECs) in vitro. The cell viability, cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, and tube formation were assessed. Subsequently the related mechanisms were analyzed by assays for JC-1 mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), intracellular ROS, ATP, western blot and proteomics. Results: 27 main chemical components contained in HZQMY were identified. HZQMY significantly inhibited the viability and proliferation of HRCECs exposed to high glucose, and promoted the apoptosis. In addition, HZQMY also boosted the release of ROS and suppressed tube formation of HRCECs under high glucose exposure. Meanwhile, HRCECs treated with high glucose released more ROS than normal cells, which could be markedly inhibited by HZQMY in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, western blot assay indicated that HZQMY increased the expression of proteins related to the P38 signaling pathway and inhibited nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway. Proteomic analysis predicted that HSPA4, MAPK3, ENO1, EEF2 and ERPS may be the candidate targets of HZQMY in HRCECs. Conclusions: HZQMY inhibited the proliferation and promoted the Mitochondria related apoptosis of HRCECs exposed to high glucose possibly through regulating P38 and NF-κB signaling pathway.

Pharmaceutical Drugs and Natural Therapeutic Products for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most widespread form of diabetes, characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance, and inefficient insulin secretion and action. Primary care in T2DM is pharmacological, using drugs of several groups that include insulin sensitisers (e.g., biguanides, thiazolidinediones), insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulphonylureas, meglinides), alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and the newest incretin-based therapies and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. However, their long-term application can cause many harmful side effects, emphasising the importance of the using natural therapeutic products. Natural health substances including non-flavonoid polyphenols (e.g., resveratrol, curcumin, tannins, and lignans), flavonoids (e.g., anthocyanins, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, naringin, rutin, and kaempferol), plant fruits, vegetables and other products (e.g., garlic, green tea, blackcurrant, rowanberry, bilberry, strawberry, cornelian cherry, olive oil, sesame oil, and carrot) may be a safer alternative to primary pharmacological therapy. They are recommended as food supplements to prevent and/or ameliorate T2DM-related complications. In the advanced stage of T2DM, the combination therapy of synthetic agents and natural compounds with synergistic interactions makes the treatment more efficient. In this review, both pharmaceutical drugs and selected natural products, as well as combination therapies, are characterized. Mechanisms of their action and possible negative side effects are also provided.

Nutrition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Present Knowledge and Remaining Challenges

Unhealthy behaviours, including diet and physical activity, coupled with genetic predisposition, drive type 2 diabetes (T2D) occurrence and severity; the present review aims to summarise the most recent nutritional approaches in T2D, outlining unmet needs. Guidelines consistently suggest reducing energy intake to counteract the obesity epidemic, frequently resulting in sarcopenic obesity, a condition associated with poorer metabolic control and cardiovascular disease. Various dietary approaches have been proposed with largely similar results, with a preference for the Mediterranean diet and the best practice being the diet that patients feel confident of maintaining in the long term based on individual preferences. Patient adherence is indeed the pivotal factor for weight loss and long-term maintenance, requiring intensive lifestyle intervention. The consumption of nutritional supplements continues to increase even if international societies do not support their systematic use. Inositols and vitamin D supplementation, as well as micronutrients (zinc, chromium, magnesium) and pre/probiotics, result in modest improvement in insulin sensitivity, but their use is not systematically suggested. To reach the desired goals, patients should be actively involved in the collaborative development of a personalised meal plan associated with habitual physical activity, aiming at normal body weight and metabolic control.

Therapeutic effects of Chinese herbal medicines and their extracts on diabetes

With the improvement of people's living standards and changes in the environment, the incidence of diabetes has increased rapidly. It has gradually become one of the main diseases threatening the health and life of modern people, bringing a great burden to the society. Although the existing treatment methods can effectively control the symptoms of diabetes and delay its progression, they have not brought satisfactory improvement in the quality of life and treatment of patients. Traditional Chinese herbal medicines and their extracts combine thousands of years of experience and the scientific basis provided by modern experimental research, which is expected to bring a qualitative leap in the clinical management of diabetes. Therefore, this article systematically reviews studies on the effects of Chinese herbal medicine and its extracts on diabetes and its complications, and aims to bring new ideas and options for the clinical treatment of diabetes.

Helichrysum italicum ssp. italicum Infusion Promotes Fat Oxidation in Hepatocytes and Stimulates Energy Expenditure and Fat Oxidation after Acute Ingestion in Humans: A Pilot Study

Helichrysum italicum is an aromatic plant with promising pharmacological activities. Bioactive compounds found in plants represent an important alternative treatment for weight loss and an infusion of H. italicum contains compounds which could have such effect. Our aim was, therefore, to investigate its acute effects on resting energy expenditure (REE) and possible differences in substrate oxidation in a pilot study. A dried, ground plant material of H. italicum ssp. italicum was infused with hot water and chemically characterized with HPLC-MS analysis. Sensory evaluation of herbal tea was performed. A randomized, crossover, controlled pilot study was then conducted on eleven healthy male subjects. The REE and substrate oxidation were measured by indirect calorimetry at baseline and 30 and 120 min after ingestion of infusion or hot water. The expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism was examined in H. italicum infusion-treated hepatocytes. Several phenolic classes were identified in the infusion, caffeoylquinic acids were the most abundant, followed by pyrones and flavonols. A single ingestion of H. italicum infusion significantly increased REE by 4% and fat oxidation by 12% compared to hot water ingestion. A significant 2-fold up-regulation of β-oxidation-related genes in HepG2 cells, exposed to H. italicum infusion, was detected. This pilot study suggests that H. italicum infusion possesses bioactive substances with potential application in obesity prevention, which could, with additional studies, become an economically interesting novel application of the plant. Clinical trial registration number: NCT04818905

Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Diseases: Nutraceutical Interventions Related to Caloric Restriction

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are closely associated and represent a key public health problem worldwide. An excess of adipose tissue, NAFLD, and gut dysbiosis establish a vicious circle that leads to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Caloric restriction (CR) is the most promising nutritional approach capable of improving cardiometabolic health. However, adherence to CR represents a barrier to patients and is the primary cause of therapeutic failure. To overcome this problem, many different nutraceutical strategies have been designed. Based on several data that have shown that CR action is mediated by AMPK/SIRT1 activation, several nutraceutical compounds capable of activating AMPK/SIRT1 signaling have been identified. In this review, we summarize recent data on the possible role of berberine, resveratrol, quercetin, and L-carnitine as CR-related nutrients. Additionally, we discuss the limitations related to the use of these nutrients in the management of T2DM and CVD.

Anti-cancer properties of quercetin in osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is a primary bone tumor. Although it is a rare disease in general, it is the most common primary bone tumor among children. Despite the significant advances made in the field of osteosarcoma treatment, the outcomes of this disease are still unfavorable. Besides, there is still no targeted therapy for osteosarcoma that can be used in clinical settings. Quercetin is a member of the phytochemical family which is used for different diseases including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Its anti-cancer effects are examined in many types of cancer including breast, colon, lung, prostate, and pancreatic cancers and have shown promising results. Herein, the studies dealing with the antitumor roles of quercetin in osteosarcoma are reviewed in this article. We take a look into quercetin's ability to affect proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and chemo-resistance of the osteosarcoma cells through regulating protein expression and signaling pathways.

Observable Protective Activities of Quercetin on Aluminum Chloride-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rat

Background:

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3 ) present in many manufactured consumable is considered as a toxic element.

Aim:

Our study evaluates the toxic effects induced by AlCl3 on the testes as well as the therapeutic tendency of Quercetin (QUE) agent as an antioxidant.

Setting and Design:

In the department of Anatomy of Medical School.

Methods and Materials:

Thirty-two male Wistar rats weighing approximately 170 ± 10 g were assigned into four groups with eight each, fed with rat chow and water ad-libitum. Group A served as control and was given distilled water throughout; Group B was given only QUE (200 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days; Group C was given only AlCl3 (300 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days; and Group D was given AlCl3 (300 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days followed with QUE (200 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days. Substance administrations were done orally.

Statistical analysis:

One-way analysis of variance was used to analyze the data, in GraphPad Prism 6.0 being the statistical software.

Results:

AlCl3 significantly reduced the relative organ (testes) weight, correlating the decrease in sperm count, sperm motility and sperm viability. Furthermore, there was a decrease in luteinizing hormone with an increase in follicle-stimulating hormone which accounted for a significant reduction in testosterone level that plays a great role in spermatogenesis, following AlCl3 treatment. The cytoarchitecture of the testes showed degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules and leydin cells, nitric oxide synthases immunoreactivity was intense in the seminiferous epithelium of rat in Group C.

Conclusion:

These suggest that QUE antioxidant property could reverse the decrease in sperm status, hormonal effects, and functional deficit induced by aluminum chloride on the testes of Wistar rats.

Quercetin and metabolic syndrome: A review

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex of diseases that lead to mortality due to the development of cardiovascular problems. Quercetin, as an important flavonoid, has various properties such as decreasing blood pressure, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-hyperglycemia, anti-oxidant, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, and cardio-protective effects. In this review article, we collected original articles from different sources such as Google Scholar, Medline, Scopus, and Pubmed, which is related to the effect of quercetin on the improvement of the signs of MetS, including elevated glucose level, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and blood pressure. According to these data, quercetin may also have a role in the management of metabolic disorders via different mechanisms such as increasing adiponectin, decreasing leptin, anti-oxidant activity, reduction of insulin resistance, the elevation of insulin level, and blocking of calcium channel. We have attempted to make some recommendations on the quercetin application in patients. However, it needs to do further clinical trials and more investigations to show the real clinical value of quercetin on metabolic syndrome.

Localised delivery of quercetin by thermo-sensitive PLGA-PEG-PLGA hydrogels for the treatment of brachial plexus avulsion

Accumulating evidence indicates that oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in brachial plexus avulsion (BPA). Quercetin has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective properties. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of a temperature-sensitive poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)-poly(ethylene-glycol)-poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) hydrogel sustained-release system of quercetin in BPA. In situ injections of the hydrogel loaded with different concentrations of quercetin were conducted in a rat model of BPA. Significantly reduced reactive oxygen species and interleukin-6 levels in the injured spinal cord 24 h post-surgery, increased number of anterior horn motor and functional neurons in the spinal cord 6 weeks post-surgery, thickened biceps muscle fibres and enlarged endplate area with clear structure, reduced demyelinated peripheral nerves, and significantly increased Terzis grooming test scores were found in the groups with 50 or 100 mg/mL quercetin-loaded hydrogels compared with the control and blank hydrogel groups. In conclusion, the temperature-sensitive quercetin loaded PLGA-PEG-PLGA hydrogel sustained-release system can alleviate oxidative damage and inflammation in the spinal cord, increase neuron survival rate, and promote nerve regeneration and motor function recovery in rats with early BPA. The findings suggest that this drug-loaded hydrogel has potential applications in the clinical treatment of BPA.

Anti-inflammatory and Hepatoprotective Effects of Quercetin in an Experimental Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the joints. Although methotrexate (MX) is the first-line treatment, side effects are common. This study aimed to investigate the effects of quercetin (QT) and/or MX on inflammation and systemic toxicity in a rat model of RA. Male Wistar rats were divided into control (C), RA, QT, MX, and QT + MX groups (n=6). The RA induction consisted of three intra-articular injections of methylated bovine serum albumin (1×/week) in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). QT (25 mg/kg) and/or MX (0.75 mg) administration occurred by oral gavage daily. We performed mechanical hyperalgesia in TMJ, leukocyte recruitment in synovial fluid, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry (TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-10) in synovial membrane and toxicity parameters. The RA showed a reduction in the nociceptive threshold (p<0.001), increase in leukocyte recruitment in synovial fluid (p<0.001), intense inflammatory infiltrate (p<0.001), and intense immunoexpression of TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-10 in the synovial membrane (p<0.001) compared to C (p<0.001). QT and/or MX therapy reduced inflammatory parameters (p<0.001). However, downregulation of IL-10 was observed only in the groups that received MX (p<0.001). Leukocytosis was seen in RA (p<0.05), but QT and/or MX reversed it (p<0.05). MX was associated with pathological changes in the liver and higher levels of transaminases when compared to the other groups (p<0.05). QT co-administered with MX reversed this hepatotoxicity (p<0.05). There were no alterations in the kidney between the groups (p>0.05). QT has potential to support MX therapy, showing anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects in this model.

Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking to Explore the Underlying Mechanism of Huangqi Gegen Decoction for Treating Diabetic Nephropathy

Background

Huangqi Gegen decoction (HGD), a Chinese herb formula, has been widely used to treat diabetic nephropathy in China, while the pharmacological mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the underlying mechanism of HGD for treating diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Materials and Methods

Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), UniProt, and SwissTargetPrediction databases were used to search the active ingredients and potential targets of HGD. In addition, multiple disease-related databases were used to collect DN-related targets. Common targets of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were established using the STRING database. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed using the DAVID database. At last, AutoDockVina was used to conduct molecular docking verification for the core components and targets.

Results

A total of 27 active ingredients and 354 putative identified target genes were screened from HGD, of which 99 overlapped with the targets of DN and were considered potential therapeutic targets. Further analysis showed that the HGD activity of quercetin, formononetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and beta-sitosterol ingredients is possible through VEGFA, IL6, TNF, AKT1, and TP53 targets involved in TNF, toll-like receptors, and MAPK-related pathways, which have anti-inflammatory, antiapoptosis, antioxidation, and autophagy effects, relieve renal fibrosis and renal cortex injury, and improve renal function, thus delaying the development of DN. The molecular docking results showed that quercetin, formononetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, beta-sitosterol had a good binding activity with VEGFA, IL6, TNF, AKT1, and TP53.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that HGD might take part in the treatment of DN through multicomponent, multitarget, and multichannel combined action.

Baicalin decreases somatic cell count in mastitis of dairy cows

Baicalin is a flavonoid that has an influence on molecular processes. It possesses anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidative, and antithrombotic properties. It was found that baicalein treatment attenuated the damage of the mammary gland induced by LPS, suppressed the activity of myeloperoxidase, TNFα, and IL-1β in mice with mastitis. The aim of the study was a pilot analysis of baicalin tolerability after intramammary (IMM) administration and its impact on somatic cell count (SCC) after multiple IMM treatment on dairy cows with clinical mastitis. Moreover, the determination of baicalin in milk was performed by the sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. The pharmacokinetic analyses were performed using Phoenix® WinNonlin® 6.4 and ThothPro v 4.1 software. Twelve dairy cows with clinical mastitis were selected for this study. The pharmacodynamic endpoint was SCC level and the clinical investigation was also carried out. Baseline SCC analysis was performed every 24 h among all cows three days before the first dose (B1–B3). After the baseline monitoring, 8 days of treatment (T1–T8) was performed and 8 days within recovery period SCC level was observed (R1–R8). Starting from T1 to T8, a decrease of SCC in relation to baseline was characterized by a declining trend. The presented results confirm the effect of baicalin on the reduction of SCC in mastitis in dairy cows after this therapy. The current study has shown that baicalin accumulation was not confirmed.

Systematic Evaluation of the Mechanisms of Mulberry Leaf (Morus alba Linne) Acting on Diabetes Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common endocrine metabolic disorder- related diseases. The application of herbal medicine to control glucose levels and improve insulin action might be a useful approach in the treatment of diabetes. Mulberry leaves (ML) have been reported to exert important activities of anti-diabetic.

OBJECTIVE

In this work, we aimed to explore the multi-targets and multi-pathways regulatory molecular mechanism of Mulberry leaves (ML, Morus alba Linne) acting on diabetes.

METHODS

Identification of active compounds of Mulberry leaves using Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database was carried out. Bioactive components were screened by FAF-Drugs4 website (Free ADME-Tox Filtering Tool). The targets of bioactive components were predicted from SwissTargetPrediction website, and the diabetes related targets were screened from GeneCards database. The common targets of ML and diabetes were used for Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis. The visualization networks were constructed by Cytoscape 3.7.1 software. The biological networks were constructed to analyze the mechanisms as follows: (1) compound-target network; (2) common target-compound network; (3) common targets protein interaction network; (4) compound-diabetes protein-protein interactions (ppi) network; (5) target-pathway network; and (6) compound-target-pathway network. At last, the prediction results of network pharmacology were verified by molecular docking method.

RESULTS

17 active components were obtained by TCMSP database and FAF-Drugs4 website. 51 potential targets (11 common targets and 40 associated indirect targets) were obtained and used to build the PPI network by the String database. Furthermore, the potential targets were used for GO and pathway enrichment analysis. Eight key active compounds (quercetin, Iristectorigenin A, 4- Prenylresveratrol, Moracin H, Moracin C, Isoramanone, Moracin E and Moracin D) and 8 key targets (AKT1, IGF1R, EIF2AK3, PPARG, AGTR1, PPARA, PTPN1 and PIK3R1) were obtained to play major roles in Mulberry leaf acting on diabetes. And the signal pathways involved in the mechanisms mainly include AMPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, mTOR signaling pathway, insulin signaling pathway and insulin resistance. The molecular docking results show that the 8 key active compounds have good affinity with the key target of AKT1, and the 5 key targets (IGF1R, EIF2AK3, PPARG, PPARA and PTPN1) have better affinity than AKT1 with the key compound of quercetin.

CONCLUSION

Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking, this study provided an important systematic and visualized basis for further understanding of the synergy mechanism of ML acting on diabetes.

Quercetin Ameliorates Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis That Drives Hypothalamic Damage and Hepatic Lipogenesis in Monosodium Glutamate-Induced Abdominal Obesity

Monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced abdominal obesity, conventionally caused by hypothalamic damage, is a critical risk factor for health problem. Microbiota-gut-brain axis plays important roles in a variety of metabolic diseases. However, whether gut microbiota is involved in the pathogenesis for MSG-induced abdominal obesity and the effect of quercetin on it remains unclear. Herein, we find that MSG-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to neuronal damage in the hypothalamus, as indicated by antibiotics-induced microbiota depletion and co-house treatment. Inspired by this finding, we investigate the mechanism in-depth for MSG-induced abdominal obesity. Liver transcriptome profiling shows retinol metabolism disorder in MSG-induced abdominal obese mice. In which, retinol saturase (RetSat) in the liver is notably up-regulated, and the downstream lipogenesis is correspondingly elevated. Importantly, microbiota depletion or co-house treatment eliminates the difference of RetSat expression in the liver, indicating gut microbiota changes are responsible for liver retinol metabolism disorder. Moreover, this study finds dietary quercetin could modulate MSG-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, alleviate hypothalamic damage and down-regulate liver RetSat expression, thus ameliorating abdominal obesity. Our study enriches the pathogenesis of MSG-induced abdominal obesity and provides a prebiotic agent to ameliorate abdominal obesity.

Edible and Herbal Plants for the Prevention and Management of COVID-19

Background: The outbreak of the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has now become a global pandemic spreading throughout the world. Unfortunately, due to the high infectiousness of the novel β-coronavirus, it is very likely to become an ordinary epidemic. The development of dietary supplements and functional foods might provide a strategy for the prevention and management of COVID-19.

Scope and Approach: A great diversity of potential edible and medicinal plants and/or natural compounds showed potential benefits in managing SARS, which may also combat COVID-19. Moreover, many plants and compounds have currently been proposed to be protective against COVID-19. This information is based on data-driven approaches and computational chemical biology techniques. In this study, we review promising candidates of edible and medicinal plants for the prevention and management of COVID-19. We primarily focus on analyzing their underlying mechanisms. We aim to identify dietary supplements and functional foods that assist in managing this epidemic.

Key findings and Conclusion: We infer that acetoside, glyasperin, isorhamnetin, and several flavonoid compounds may prevent and/or be effective in managing COVID-19 by targeting the viral infection, reducing the host cytokine storm, regulating the immune response, and providing organ protection. These bioactive dietary components (used either alone or in combination) might assist in the development of dietary supplements or functional foods for managing COVID-19.

Botanical formulation, TADIOS, alleviates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced acute lung injury in mice via modulation of the Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

TADIOS is an herbal formulation prepared from a mixture of Taraxacum officinale (L.) Weber ex F.H.Wigg, Dioscorea batatas Decaisne and Schizonepeta tenuifolia (Benth.) Briquet. These plants have traditionally been used in Asia to treat a variety of respiratory diseases. A bulk of literature on traditional Korean medicine describe their activities and functions for respiratory problems. Therefore, we hypothesized that the combination of these plants might be effective in alleviating respiratory symptoms.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we investigated whether TADIOS ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury via regulation of the Nrf2-HO-1 signaling pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model was used to determine the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects of TADIOS. The amount of marker compounds contained in TADIOS was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The protein level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in culture supernatant was measured by ELISA. Changes in the RNA level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice lungs and RAW264.7 cells were measured by quantitative RT-PCR. The relative amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by DCF-DA assay. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate expression of cellular proteins. Effects of TADIOS on antioxidant responsive elements (AREs) were determined by luciferase assay. The severity of acute lung injury was evaluated by Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) staining. To test the effects of TADIOS on LPS-induced oxidative stress, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and the total antioxidant capacity were measured.

RESULTS

TADIOS was prepared by extraction of a blend of these three plants by ethanol, and quality control was performed through quantification of marker compounds by HPLC and measurement of bioactivities using cell-based bioassays. In the murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7, TADIOS effectively suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1β, and also ROS induced by LPS. When RAW264.7 cells were transfected with a luciferase reporter plasmid containing nucleotide sequences for AREs, TADIOS treatment increased the level of relative luciferase units in a dose-dependent manner. In the LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model, orally administered TADIOS alleviated lung damage and neutrophil infiltration induced by LPS. Consistent with the in vitro data, treatment with TADIOS inhibited the LPS-mediated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, and activated the Nrf2-HO-1 axis.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest the potential for TADIOS to be developed as a safe and effective therapeutics for the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Dietary nutrition for neurological disease therapy: Current status and future directions

Adequate food intake and relative abundance of dietary nutrients have undisputed effects on the brain function. There is now substantial evidence that dietary nutrition aids in the prevention and remediation of neurologic symptoms in diverse pathological conditions. The newly described influences of dietary factors on the alterations of mitochondrial dysfunction, epigenetic modification and neuroinflammation are important mechanisms that are responsible for the action of nutrients on the brain health. In this review, we discuss the state of evidence supporting that distinct dietary interventions including dietary supplement and dietary restriction have the ability to tackle neurological disorders using Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease and multiple sclerosis as examples. Additionally, it is also highlighting that diverse potential mechanisms such as metabolic control, epigenetic modification, neuroinflammation and gut-brain axis are of utmost importance for nutrient supply to the risk of neurologic condition and therapeutic response. Finally, we also highlight the novel concept that dietary nutrient intervention reshapes metabolism-epigenetics-immunity cycle to remediate brain dysfunction. Targeting metabolism-epigenetics-immunity network will delineate a new blueprint for combating neurological weaknesses.

Investigation of Quercetin interaction behaviors with lipid bilayers: Toward understanding its antioxidative effect within biomembrane

Quercetin (QCT), existing in common dietary sources, is an abundant bioflavonoid with planar structure and exerts multiple pharmacological effects. Herein, four kinds of liposomes were prepared as model biomembranes, and then the partition coefficient, distribution in lipid membrane and influence of the QCT on the membrane properties were evaluated. The partition of QCT to lipid membranes was affected by both membrane phase state and the interference of QCT on membrane properties. The location of QCT in lipid membrane was related to the phase state of lipid membrane. In addition, influence of QCT on the compaction of the hydrocarbon tail in lipid membranes was dependent on the unsaturation degree of lipid molecules. Finally, about its antioxidant activity, from the results of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay, it can be concluded that the interaction of QCT with lipid membrane greatly influences on QCT reductive activity in lipid membrane. Furthermore, mass spectrometry of DOPC molecule showed no lipid oxidation in the presence of QCT, indicating that in addition to the QCT ability toward radical scavenging, the ordering effect of QCT in unsaturated lipid membrane would be helpful to protect lipid membrane from oxidation by inhibiting radical diffusion (synergy effect). Based on lipid membrane analysis, our study made it clear that the effect of QCT on various lipid membrane and its relation with the antioxidant effect of QCT within lipid membrane. Therefore, our analytical method and findings would be also helpful for understanding the mechanism of other antioxidants effects on biomembrane.

Phaseolin Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in RAW 264.7 Cells and Zebrafish

Kushen (Radix Sophorae flavescentis) is used to treat ulcerative colitis, tumors, and pruritus. Recently, phaseolin, formononetin, matrine, luteolin, and quercetin, through a network pharmacology approach, were tentatively identified as five bioactive constituents responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects of S. flavescentis. However, the role of phaseolin (one of the primary components of S. flavescentis) in the direct regulation of inflammation and inflammatory processes is not well known. In this study, the beneficial role of phaseolin against inflammation was explored in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation models of RAW 264.7 macrophages and zebrafish larvae. Phaseolin inhibited LPS-mediated production of nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), without affecting cell viability. In addition, phaseolin suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators such as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, phaseolin reduced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity as well as macrophage adhesion in vitro and the recruitment of leukocytes in vivo by downregulating Ninjurin 1 (Ninj1), an adhesion molecule. Finally, phaseolin inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). In view of the above, our results suggest that phaseolin could be a potential therapeutic candidate for the management of inflammation.

Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin to Alleviate Endothelial Dysfunction in Age-Related Cardiovascular Diseases

The vascular endothelium occupies a catalog of functions that contribute to the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system. It is a physically active barrier between circulating blood and tissue, a regulator of the vascular tone, a biochemical processor and a modulator of coagulation, inflammation, and immunity. Given these essential roles, it comes to no surprise that endothelial dysfunction is prodromal to chronic age-related diseases of the heart and arteries, globally termed cardiovascular diseases (CVD). An example would be ischemic heart disease (IHD), which is the main cause of death from CVD. We have made phenomenal advances in treating CVD, but the aging endothelium, as it senesces, always seems to out-run the benefits of medical and surgical therapies. Remarkably, many epidemiological studies have detected a correlation between a flavonoid-rich diet and a lower incidence of mortality from CVD. Quercetin, a member of the flavonoid class, is a natural compound ubiquitously found in various food sources such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and wine. It has been reported to have a wide range of health promoting effects and has gained significant attention over the years. A growing body of evidence suggests quercetin could lower the risk of IHD by mitigating endothelial dysfunction and its risk factors, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, accumulation of senescent endothelial cells, and endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT). In this review, we will explore these pathophysiological cascades and their interrelation with endothelial dysfunction. We will then present the scientific evidence to quercetin's anti-atherosclerotic, anti-hypertensive, senolytic, and anti-EndoMT effects. Finally, we will discuss the prospect for its clinical use in alleviating myocardial ischemic injuries in IHD.

Anti-obesity Medications in Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Insight

The interplay between cancer and obesity is multifactorial and complex with the increased risk of cancer development in obese individuals posing a significant threat. Obesity leads to the upregulation or hyperactivation of several oncogenic pathways in cancer cells, which drives them towards a deleterious phenotype. The cross-talk between cancer and obesity is considered a large contributing factor in the development of chemotherapeutic drug resistance and the resistance to radiotherapy. The link between obesity and the development of cancer is so strong that a medication that demonstrates effectiveness against both conditions would serve as an essential step. In this context, anti-obesity medications provide a worthy list of candidates based on their chemo-preventive potential and chemotherapeutic properties. The current study focuses on exploring the potential of anti-obesity medicines as dual anticancer drugs. These medications target several key signaling pathways (e.g., AMPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK, NF-κB, JNK/ERK), which prove to be crucial for both cancer growth and metastases. Some of these drugs also play an important role in attenuating the signaling and cellular events which incite cancer-obesity cross-talk and demonstrate efficient counteraction of neoplastic transformation. Thus, this review highlights a comprehensive view of the potential use of anti-obesity medicines to treat both cancer and obesity for patients exhibiting both comorbities.