Flavonoids as Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agents Targeting Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NFκB) Signaling in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Mini Review

TGF-β1 and Mechanical-Stretch Induction of Lysyl-Oxidase and Matrix-Metalloproteinase Expression in Synovial Fibroblasts Requires NF-κB Pathways

The imbalance in the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and lysyl oxidases (LOXs) in synovial fibroblasts (SFs) caused by mechanical injury and inflammatory response prevents injured anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) from self-healing. However, research on the effect of growth factors on SFs on regulating the microenvironment is limited. In this study, mechanical injury and exogenous transform growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were employed to mimic a joint-cavity microenvironment with ACL trauma. The function of the NF-κB transcription factor was further studied. The study found that the gene expression of LOXs (except LOXL-1), MMP-1, -2, and -3 in SFs was promoted by the combination of injurious mechanical stretching and TGF-β1 and that the upregulation of MMPs was higher than that of LOXs. In addition, MMP-2 activity induced by the combination of injurious stretch and TGF-β1 was inhibited by NF-κB inhibitors such as Bay11-7082 and Bay11-7085. The findings concluded that the synovium was an important regulator of the knee joint-cavity microenvironment after ACL injury and that the NF-κB pathway mediated the regulation of MMP-2 in SFs via mechanical factors and TGF-β1.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Filipendula glaberrima Nakai Ethanolic Extract and Its Chemical Composition

Many countries are endeavoring to strengthen the competitiveness of their biological resources by exploring and developing wild endemic plants. This study examined the effects of Filipendula glaberrima Nakai (FG) on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity using an in vitro system. The bioactive components were also examined using chromatographic techniques. The ethanol extract of Filipendula glaberrima Nakai (FGE) exerted antioxidant activities in the radical scavenging and reducing power assays and had high amounts of total polyphenolic compounds. The qRT-PCR results suggested that FGE significantly downregulated the levels cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) 2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6 in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. The FGE treatment also decreased the production of nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 significantly in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, FGE downregulated phosphorylation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins. The chromatographic and mass spectrometry results showed that FGE contained bioactive flavonoids such as (+)-catechin, miquelianin, quercitrin, and afzelin, which may be active compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study provides fundamental data on the anti-inflammatory activity of the FG and can serve as a good starting point for developing a novel natural anti-inflammatory agent using FGE-containing bioactive flavonoids.

Effects of Intrauterine Infusion of Micronised Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) in Metritis-Diagnosed Dairy Cows Naturally Infected by E. coli during the Early Postpartum

The occurrence of metritis during the postpartum period causes serious economic losses in dairy cattle. The Micronised Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) is a polyphenolic flavonoid compound which is considered to have many health-related properties such as antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, phlebotonic, and several vascular-protecting activities. The aim was to evaluate the effects of a new strategic therapy for metritis based on MPFF intrauterine infusions during the early postpartum in dairy cows naturally infected by Escherichia coli. The clinical effects on reproductive anatomical structures and chronological involution dynamics were monitored until day 24 postpartum by ultrasonography. Moreover, uterine bacteriological and cytological (polymorphonuclear neutrophils; PMNs) profiles were analysed before and after MPFF infusion. The results showed that the success rate (% cure) at day 24 postpartum was improved significantly when using higher MPFF doses (p < 0.05). Moreover, MPFF treatment acutely diminished the size of the cervix and uterus and improved the involution process during the first 24 days (p < 0.05). The prevalence of pathogenic bacteria found in in vitro cultures was significantly variable (p < 0.01), as were the antibiotic sensitivity patterns. Pathogenic bacteria isolates decreased after MPFF applications in a dose−response fashion (p < 0.01), while isolates obtained from controls and low-dose-MPFF-treated animals were stable and similar (p > 0.05). The sensitivity patterns of pathogenic bacteria isolated in in vitro cultures from MPFF-treated animals were variable, although resistance to E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., and coliforms was shown irrespective of the MPFF doses used. However, MPFF-treated cows showed a dose−response effect regarding PMN rates (p < 0.05). The calving-first service, calving−conception interval, and conception rate improved significantly from using higher MPFF doses (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study shows that MPFF treatment differentially affects uterine involution, bacteriological profiles, cytological traits, and reproductive performance in metritis-positive dairy cows naturally infected by E. coli.

Computational investigation of phytochemicals from Abrus precatorius seeds as modulators of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ)

Type 2 diabetes mellitus remains global health challenge with involvement of both insulin resistance and dysfunctional insulin secretion from the pancreatic β-cell. Currently, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) has been established to play a significant role in glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitization contributing to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Hence, this study used in-silico analysis to predict PPARγ antagonists from the natural compounds. ADMET screening, structure-based virtual screening and MM/GBSA calculations of phytochemicals from HPLC analysis of A. precatorius seeds were performed against PPARγ using Maestro Schrodinger suite, followed by the MD simulation of top hit compounds and reference ligand using GROMACS. The quantum chemical calculations of the compounds were performed using Spartan 14 computational chemistry software. The five compounds showed varying degree of binding affinity against PPARγ, the post-docking analysis confirmed strong interaction against the amino acid residues of the binding site of the target. Chlorogenic acid showed the highest docking score (-10.719 kcal/mol) among the compounds comparable to the reference ligand (acarbose = -10.634 kcal/mol). Additionally, MM/GBSA binding free energy (ΔG^bind) calculations support the modulatory potential for the docked compounds, which exclusively revealed the highest binding energy for the compounds than the reference ligand (acarbose). The MD simulations suggested the stability of Chlorogenic acid and Quercetin in complex with PPARγ at least in the time period of 90 ns after initial equilibration state with more H-bond observed between the target-hit compounds complex compared to the Acarbose-PPARγ complex. ADMET profile revealed that the five compounds were favorably druggable and promising drug candidates. The quantum chemical calculations showed that the compounds possess better bioactivity and chemical reactivity with favorable intra-molecular charge transfer as electron-donor and electron-acceptor. This study revealed that bioactive compounds especially chlorogenic acid and quercetin identified from A. precatorius seeds demonstrated good modulatory potential against PPARγ compared to acarbose. Therefore, these compounds require further experimental validation for the discovery of new antagonist of PPARγ for developing new anti-diabetes therapy.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Ethnopharmacological impact of Melaleuca rugulosa (Link) Craven leaves extract on liver inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Melaleuca species have been used by many ethnic communities for the management and treatment of several ailments as hemorrhoids, cough, skin infections, rheumatism, sore throat, pain, inflammation, and digestive system malfunctions. However, the detailed mechanistic pharmacological effect of Melaleuca rugulosa (Link) Craven leaves in the management of liver inflammation has not been yet addressed.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic capacities of the aqueous methanol extract of M. rugulosa leaves in relevance to their flavonoid content using an appropriate in vivo model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aqueous methanol extract of M. rugulosa leaves was administered to the rats at three non-toxic doses (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) for seven days prior to the initiation of liver-injury induced by paracetamol (3 g/kg). Liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated in serum samples. The oxidative stress markers including reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels as well as the inflammatory markers such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), were assessed in liver homogenate. The results were supported by histopathological and immuno-histochemical studies. The phytochemical investigation of the flavonoid-rich fraction of the aqueous methanol extract was accomplished using different chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.

RESULTS

The aqueous methanol extract of M. rugulosa leaves showed a powerful hepatoprotective activity evidenced by the significant reduction of MDA and NO levels, as well as increasing GSH and catalase activity. Moreover, the extract exhibited anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities witnessed by decreasing TNF-α, NF-κB, iNOS, p-JNK, caspase-3, BAX, and increasing Bcl-2 levels. Moreover, the pretreatment of rats with all doses of M. rugulosa leaves extract showed a significant decrease in liver weight/body weight (LW/BW) ratio, and total bilirubin induced by paracetamol. On the other hand, the chromatographic separation of the flavonoid-rich fraction afforded twenty known flavonoids namely; iso-orientin (1), orientin (2), isovitexin (3), vitexin (4), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucuronid methyl ether (5), quercetin-3-O-β-D-mannuronpyranoside (6), isoquercetin (7), quercitrin (8), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-mannuronopyranoside (9), kaempferol-7-O-methyl ether-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (10), guaijaverin (11), avicularin (12), kaempferide-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (13), astragalin (14), afzelin (15), luteolin (16), apigenin (17), quercetin (18), kaempferol (19), and catechin (20).

CONCLUSION

The aqueous methanol extract of M. rugulosa leaves showed potential hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities against paracetamol-induced liver inflammation which is correlated at least in part to its considerable phenolic content.

Indigenous Uses, Phytochemical Analysis, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Australian Tropical Medicinal Plants

Australian tropical plants have been a rich source of food (bush food) and medicine to the first Australians (Aboriginal people), who are believed to have lived for more than 50,000 years. Plants such as spreading sneezeweed (Centipeda minima), goat’s foot (Ipomoea pes-caprae), and hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa and D. polyandra) are a few popular Aboriginal medicinal plants. Thus far, more than 900 medicinal plants have been recorded in the tropical region alone, and many of them are associated with diverse ethnomedicinal uses that belong to the traditional owners of Aboriginal people. In our effort to find anti-inflammatory lead compounds in collaboration with Aboriginal communities from their medicinal plants, we reviewed 78 medicinal plants used against various inflammation and inflammatory-related conditions by Aboriginal people. Out of those 78 species, we have included only 45 species whose crude extracts or isolated pure compounds showed anti-inflammatory properties. Upon investigating compounds isolated from 40 species (for five species, only crude extracts were studied), 83 compounds were associated with various anti-inflammatory properties. Alphitolic acid, Betulinic acid, Malabaric acid, and Hispidulin reduced proinflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and 2) with IC₅₀ values ranging from 11.5 to 46.9 uM. Other promising anti-inflammatory compounds are Brevilin A (from Centipeda minima), Eupalestin, and 5′-methoxy nobiletin (from Ageratum conyzoides), Calophyllolide (from Calophyllum inophyllum), and Brusatol (from Brucea javanica). D. polyandra is one example of an Aboriginal medicinal plant from which a novel anti-inflammatory benzoyl ester clerodane diterpenoid compound was obtained (compound name not disclosed), and it is in the development of topical medicines for inflammatory skin diseases. Medicinal plants in the tropics and those associated with indigenous knowledge of Aboriginal people could be a potential alternative source of novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics.

Ethnomedical, phytochemical and pharmacological insights on an Indian medicinal plant: The balloon vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn.)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn. (C. halicacabum) is one of the well-known leafy green vegetables in India. It is an herbaceous climber from the Sapindaceae family which is found in almost every Continent and Oceania. In the traditional Indian medicine systems, this plant is used for the treatment of rheumatism, abdominal pain, orchitis, dropsy, lumbago, skin diseases, cough, nervous disorders, and hyperthermia.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review presents the current information about ethnomedical uses and progress on geographical distribution, pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, micropropagation, and toxicity of C. halicacabum. Also, critically summarizes the relationship between the reported pharmacological activities and the traditional usages along with the future perspectives for research on this medicinal plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data on C. halicacabum were collected using multiple internet sources such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, PubMed, Web of Science, Springer Link, Wiley online, and plant databases.

RESULTS

Chemical characterization using LC-MS/MS, HPLC, and NMR exposed the presence of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, luteolin-7-o-glucuronide, apigenin-7-o-glucuronide, and chrysoeriol in different parts of C. halicacabum. Based on the outcomes of this review, the main bioactive compounds found in C. halicacabum include phenols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and flavonoid glucuronides. Besides the above-mentioned constituents, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, linolenic acid, eicosenoic acid, and arachidic acid are the compounds that constitute the fatty acid profile of C. halicacabum seeds. Specifically, Cardiospermin, a bioactive compound isolated from the root extract of C. halicacabum has been recognized for its anxiolytic activity. Moreover, C. halicacabum showed a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-diabetic, anxiolytic activity, antiulcer, apoptotic activity, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-diarrheal, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective properties. However, the bioactive compounds responsible for most of the above therapeutic properties have not been elucidated till now.

CONCLUSION

Phytochemicals from C. halicacabum showed noticeable pharmacological effects against plethora of health disorders. Some of the traditional applications were supported by modern scientific studies, however, more pharmacological evaluations should be conducted to validate other traditional uses of C. halicacabum. Despite C. halicacabum's vast pharmacological activity, additional human clinical trials are needed to determine the potent and safe dosages for the treatment of various health abnormalities. Besides, bioassay-guided isolation of active constituents, pharmacokinetic evaluations and identification of their mode of action are recommended for future investigations on C. halicacabum to unveil its therapeutic drug leads. Overall, this review suggests that C. halicacabum could be a new source of functional foods.

Molecular Dynamics Simulations Indicate Aromaticity as a Key Factor in the Inhibition of IAPP(20-29) Aggregation

Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) is a 37-residue amyloidogenic hormone implicated in the progression of Type II Diabetes (T2D). T2D affects an estimated 422 million people yearly and is a comorbidity with numerous diseases. IAPP forms toxic oligomers and amyloid fibrils that reduce pancreatic β-cell mass and exacerbate the T2D disease state. Toxic oligomer formation is attributed, in part, to the formation of interpeptide β-strands comprised of residues 20-29 (IAPP_(20-29)). Flavonoids, a class of polyphenolic natural products, have been found experimentally to inhibit IAPP aggregate formation. Many of these small flavonoids differ structurally only slightly; the influence of functional group placement on inhibiting the aggregation of the IAPP_(20-29) has yet to be explored. To probe the role of small-molecule structural features that impede IAPP aggregation, molecular dynamics simulations were performed to observe trimer formation on a model fragment of IAPP_(20-29) in the presence of morin, quercetin, dihydroquercetin, epicatechin, and myricetin. Contacts between Phe23 residues were critical to oligomer formation, and small-molecule contacts with Phe23 were a key predictor of β-strand reduction. Structural properties influencing the ability of compounds to disrupt Phe23-Phe23 contacts included aromaticity and carbonyl and hydroxyl group placement. This work provides key information on design considerations for T2D therapeutics that target IAPP aggregation.

Therapeutic Effects of Natural Products on Cervical Cancer: Based on Inflammatory Pathways

Inflammation is a protective response of the body to an irritant. When an inflammatory response occurs, immune cells are recruited to the injury, eliminating the irritation. The excessive inflammatory response can cause harm to the organism. Inflammation has been found to contribute to cervical cancer if there is a problem with the regulation of inflammatory response. Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors globally, and the incidence tends to be younger. The harm of cervical cancer cannot be ignored. The standard treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the prognosis for this treatment is poor, so it is urgent to find a safer and more effective treatment. Natural products are considered excellent candidates for the treatment of cervical cancer. In this review, we first describe the mechanisms by which inflammation induces cervical cancer. Subsequently, we highlight natural products that can treat cervical cancer through inflammatory pathways. We also introduce natural products for the treatment of cervical cancer in clinical trials. Finally, methods to improve the anticancer properties of natural products were added, and the development status of natural products was discussed.

Natural products: Potential therapeutic agents to prevent skeletal muscle atrophy

The skeletal muscle (SkM) is the largest organ, which plays a vital role in controlling musculature, locomotion, body heat regulation, physical strength, and metabolism of the body. A sedentary lifestyle, aging, cachexia, denervation, immobilization, etc. Can lead to an imbalance between protein synthesis and degradation, which is further responsible for SkM atrophy (SmA). To date, the understanding of the mechanism of SkM mass loss is limited which also restricted the number of drugs to treat SmA. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel approaches to regulate muscle homeostasis. Presently, some natural products attained immense attraction to regulate SkM homeostasis. The natural products, i.e., polyphenols (resveratrol, curcumin), terpenoids (ursolic acid, tanshinone IIA, celastrol), flavonoids, alkaloids (tomatidine, magnoflorine), vitamin D, etc. exhibit strong potential against SmA. Some of these natural products have been reported to have equivalent potential to standard treatments to prevent body lean mass loss. Indeed, owing to the large complexity, diversity, and slow absorption rate of bioactive compounds made their usage quite challenging. Moreover, the use of natural products is controversial due to their partially known or elusive mechanism of action. Therefore, the present review summarizes various experimental and clinical evidence of some important bioactive compounds that shall help in the development of novel strategies to counteract SmA elicited by various causes.

Flavonoids as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Molecules: A Review

Hydroxylated polyphenols, also called flavonoids, are richly present in vegetables, fruits, cereals, nuts, herbs, seeds, stems, and flowers of numerous plants. They possess numerous medicinal properties such as antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammation. Studies show that flavonoids activate antioxidant pathways that render an anti-inflammatory effect. They inhibit the secretions of enzymes such as lysozymes and β-glucuronidase and inhibit the secretion of arachidonic acid, which reduces inflammatory reactions. Flavonoids such as quercetin, genistein, apigenin, kaempferol, and epigallocatechin 3-gallate modulate the expression and activation of a cytokine such as interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8); regulate the gene expression of many pro-inflammatory molecules such s nuclear factor kappa-light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), activator protein-1 (AP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM), and E-selectins; and also inhibits inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, and lipoxygenase, which are pro-inflammatory enzymes. Understanding the anti-inflammatory action of flavonoids provides better treatment options, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-induced inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, obstructive pulmonary disorder, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, and cancer. This review highlights the sources, biochemical activities, and role of flavonoids in enhancing human health.

The Regulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Cancer: Special Focuses on Luteolin Patents

Cancer is a major health problem across the globe, and is expeditiously growing at a faster rate worldwide. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a membranous cell organelle having inextricable links in cellular homeostasis. Altering ER homeostasis initiates various signaling events known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). The basic purpose of the UPR is to reinstate the homeostasis; however, a continuous UPR can stimulate pathways of cell death, such as apoptosis. As a result, there is great perturbation to target particular signaling pathways of ER stress. Flavonoids have gained significant interest as a potential anticancer agent because of their considerable role in causing cytotoxicity of the cancerous cells. Luteolin, a flavonoid isolated from natural products, is a promising phytochemical used in the treatment of cancer. The current study is designed to review the different endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways involved in the cancer, mechanistic insights of luteolin as an anticancer agent in modulating ER stress, and the available luteolin patent formulations were also highlighted. The patents were selected on the basis of pre-clinical and/or clinical trials, and established antitumor effects using patent databases of FPO IP and Espacenet. The patented formulation of luteolin studied so far has shown promising anticancer potential against different cancer cell lines. However, further research is still required to determine the molecular targets of such bioactive molecules so that they can be used as anticancer drugs.

Tea Seed Kaempferol Triglycoside Attenuates LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation and Ameliorates Cognitive Impairments in a Mouse Model

(1) Background: The current research intended to obtain functional compounds from agricultural by-products. A functional tea seed flavonoid, kaempferol-3-O-[2-O-β-d-xylopyranosyl-6-O-α-L-rhanmopyranosyl]-β-d-glucopyranoside (KXRG), was isolated from tea seed dregs. We further determined its chemical structure and evaluated the protective effects of KXRG against local and systemic inflammation in vivo; (2) Methods: First, cytotoxicity and proinflammatory cytokine release were examined in a cell-culture system. The biological activities of KXRG were investigated in a mouse model of ear edema, and from inflammatory damage to organs as demonstrated by histologic examination, in addition to brain function evaluation using the Y-maze test. Serum biochemical analysis and western blotting were utilized to explore the related cellular factors; (3) Results: KXRG inhibited IL-6 in RAW264.7 cells at a non-toxic concentration. Further experiments confirmed that KXRG exerted a stronger effect than indomethacin in terms of the prevention of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA)-induced ear inflammation in a mouse model. KXRG feeding significantly prevented LPS-induced small intestine, liver, and kidney inflammatory damage, as demonstrated by histologic examination. KXRG also significantly improved LPS-induced cognitive impairments. Serum biochemical analysis showed that KXRG elevated antioxidant capacity and reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Western blotting revealed that KXRG reduced the COX-2 expression induced by LPS in mouse tissues; (4) Conclusions: KXRG can be purified from agricultural waste, and hence it is inexpensive, with large amounts of raw materials available. Thus, KXRG has strong potential for further development as a wide-use anti-systemic inflammation drug to prevent human disease.

Densitometric Quantification and Optimization of Polyphenols in Phyllanthus maderaspatensis by HPTLC

Quantifying and optimizing the polyphenol content of Phyllanthus maderaspatensis was accomplished using a single-solvent HPTLC system. Analyzing hydroalcoholic extracts for kaempferol, rutin, ellagic acid, quercetin, catechin, and gallic acid, we simultaneously quantified and optimized their concentration. In the experiment, the methanol to water ratio (%), temperature (°C), and time of extraction (min) were all optimized using a Box-Behnken statistical design. Kaempferol, rutin, ellagic acid, quercetin, catechin, and gallic acid were among the dependent variables analyzed. In the HPTLC separation, silica gel 60F254 plates were used, and toluene, ethyl acetate, and formic acid (5:4:1) made up the mobile phase. For kaempferol, rutin, ellagic acid, quercetin, catechin, and gallic acid, densitometric measurements were carried out using the absorbance mode at 254 nm. Hydroalcoholic extract of P. maderaspatensis contains rutin (0.344), catechin (2.62), gallic acid (0.93), ellagic acid (0.172), quercetin (0.0108) and kaempferol (0.06). Further, it may be affected by more than one factor at a time, resulting in a varying degree of reaction. A negative correlation was found between X1 (extraction time (min)) and X2 (temperature), as well as X1 and X3 (solvent ratios). Taking these characteristics into consideration, the method outlined here is a validated HPTLC method for measuring kaempferol, rutin, ellagic acid, quercetin, catechin, and gallic acid.

Phytoconstituents from Adenanthera pavonina L. as antioxidants and inhibitors of inducible TNF-α production in BV2 cells

Adenanthera pavonina L. has been used traditionally to relieve inflammation. This study aimed to expand the phytochemical knowledge of A. pavonina and evaluate its constituents for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and the inhibition of TNF-α was assessed through ELISA and qRT-PCR techniques. Interestingly, five previously undescribed metabolites, including a pentadienoic acid derivative, a triterpenoid glycoside, and three tamarixetin glycosides, were identified alongside seven known compounds. Most compounds evaluated had higher DPPH radical scavenging capabilities than the standard, trolox. Tamarixetin 3-O-(α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl)-(1→2)-β-ᴅ-galactopyranoside (11), a previously undescribed compound, was the most effective at suppressing TNF-α protein and m-RNA levels. Other flavonoid glycosides, quercetin 3-O-(α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-ᴅ-xylopyranoside (4), isovitixin (5), and quercetin-3-O-[α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)]-[α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→6)]-β-ᴅ-galactopyranoside (9), also significantly lowered TNF-α production.

Genistein: A Review on its Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Nowadays, non-resolving inflammation is becoming a major trigger in various diseases as it plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, asthma, cancer, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, neurodegenerative disease, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. However, prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs is usually accompanied with undesirable effects and hence more patients tend to seek for natural compounds as alternative medicine. Considering the fact above, there is an urgency to discover and develop potential novel, safe and efficacious natural compounds as drug candidates for future anti-inflammatory therapy. Genistein belongs to the flavonoid family, in the subgroup of isoflavones. It is a phytoestrogen that is mainly derived from legumes. It is a naturally occurring chemical constituent with a similar chemical structure to mammalian estrogens. It is claimed to exert many beneficial effects on health, such as protection against osteoporosis, reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, alleviation of postmenopausal symptoms and anticancer properties. In the past, numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have been conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of genistein. Henceforth, this review aims to summarize the anti-inflammatory properties of genistein linking with the signaling pathways and mediators that are involved in the inflammatory response as well as its toxicity profile. The current outcomes are analysed to highlight the prospect as a lead compound for drug discovery. Data was collected using PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink and Scopus databases. Results showed that genistein possessed strong anti-inflammatory activities through inhibition of various signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), prostaglandins (PGs), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS). A comprehensive assessment of the mechanism of action in anti-inflammatory effects of genistein is included. However, evidence for the pharmacological effects is still lacking. Further studies using various animal models to assess pharmacological effects such as toxicity, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and bioavailability studies are required before clinical studies can be conducted. This review will highlight the potential use of genistein as a lead compound for future drug development as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Effect of Hydroxyl Groups Esterification with Fatty Acids on the Cytotoxicity and Antioxidant Activity of Flavones

Flavonoids and polyunsaturated fatty acids due to low cytotoxicity in vitro studies are suggested as potential substances in the prevention of diseases associated with oxidative stress. We examined novel 6-hydroxy-flavanone and 7-hydroxy-flavone conjugates with selected fatty acids (FA) of different length and saturation and examined their cytotoxic and antioxidant potential. Our findings indicate that the conjugation with FA affects the biological activity of both the original flavonoids. The conjugation of 6-hydroxy-flavanone increased its cytotoxicity towards prostate cancer PC3 cells. The most noticeable effect was found for oleate conjugate. A similar trend was observed for 7-hydroxy-flavone conjugates with the most evident effect for oleate and stearate. The cytotoxic potential of all tested conjugates was not specific towards PC3 because the viability of human keratinocytes HaCaT cells decreased after exposure to all conjugates. Additionally, we showed that esterification of the two flavonoids decreased their antioxidant activity compared to that of the original compounds. Of all the tested compounds, only 6-sorbic flavanone showed a slight increase in antioxidant potential compared to that of the original compound. Our data show that conjugated flavonoids are better absorbed and enhance cytotoxic effects, but the presence of FA lowered the antioxidant potential.

Resuscitating the Field of Cardiac Regeneration: Seeking Answers from Basic Biology

Heart failure (HF) is one of the leading causes for hospital admissions worldwide. HF patients are classified based on the chronic changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as preserved (LVEF ≥ 50%), reduced (LVEF ≤ 40%), or mid-ranged (40% < LVEF < 50%) HFs. Treatments nowadays can prevent HFrEF progress, whereas only a few of the treatments have been proven to be effective in improving the survival of HFpEF. In this review, numerous mediators involved in the pathogenesis of HF are summarized. The regional upstream signaling and their diagnostic and therapeutic potential are also discussed. Additionally, the recent challenges and development in cardiac regenerative therapy that hold opportunities for future research and clinical translation are discussed.

Navigating Calcium and Reactive Oxygen Species by Natural Flavones for the Treatment of Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF), the leading cause of death among men and women world-wide, causes great health and economic burdens. HF can be triggered by many factors, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, obesity, etc., all of which have close relations with calcium signal and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Calcium is an essential second messenger in signaling pathways, playing a pivotal role in regulating the life and death of cardiomyocytes via the calcium-apoptosis link mediated by the cellular level of calcium. Meanwhile, calcium can also control the rate of energy production in mitochondria that are the major resources of ROS whose overproduction can lead to cell death. More importantly, there are bidirectional interactions between calcium and ROS, and such interactions may have therapeutic implications in treating HF through finely tuning the balance between these two by certain drugs. Many naturally derived products, e.g., flavones and isoflavones, have been shown to possess activities in regulating calcium and ROS simultaneously, thereby leading to a balanced microenvironment in heart tissues to exert therapeutic efficacies in HF. In this mini review, we aimed to provide an updated knowledge of the interplay between calcium and ROS in the development of HF. In addition, we summarized the recent studies (in vitro, in vivo and in clinical trials) using natural isolated flavones and isoflavones in treating HF. Critical challenges are also discussed. The information collected may help to evoke multidisciplinary efforts in developing novel agents for the potential prevention and treatment of HF.

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.

Anticancer Activity of Natural and Synthetic Chalcones

Cancer is a condition caused by many mechanisms (genetic, immune, oxidation, and inflammatory). Anticancer therapy aims to destroy or stop the growth of cancer cells. Resistance to treatment is theleading cause of the inefficiency of current standard therapies. Targeted therapies are the most effective due to the low number of side effects and low resistance. Among the small molecule natural compounds, flavonoids are of particular interest for theidentification of new anticancer agents. Chalcones are precursors to all flavonoids and have many biological activities. The anticancer activity of chalcones is due to the ability of these compounds to act on many targets. Natural chalcones, such as licochalcones, xanthohumol (XN), panduretin (PA), and loncocarpine, have been extensively studied and modulated. Modification of the basic structure of chalcones in order to obtain compounds with superior cytotoxic properties has been performed by modulating the aromatic residues, replacing aromatic residues with heterocycles, and obtaining hybrid molecules. A huge number of chalcone derivatives with residues such as diaryl ether, sulfonamide, and amine have been obtained, their presence being favorable for anticancer activity. Modification of the amino group in the structure of aminochalconesis always favorable for antitumor activity. This is why hybrid molecules of chalcones with different nitrogen hetercycles in the molecule have been obtained. From these, azoles (imidazole, oxazoles, tetrazoles, thiazoles, 1,2,3-triazoles, and 1,2,4-triazoles) are of particular importance for the identification of new anticancer agents.

Hyperglycosylated spike of SARS-CoV-2 gamma variant induces breast cancer metastasis

SARS-CoV-2 exploits the host cellular machinery for virus replication leading to the acute syndrome of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Growing evidence suggests SARS-CoV-2 also exacerbates many chronic diseases, including cancers. As mutations on the spike protein (S) emerged as dominant variants that reduce vaccine efficacy, little is known about the relation between SARS-CoV-2 virus variants and cancers. Compared to the SARS-CoV-2 wild-type, the Gamma variant contains two additional NXT/S glycosylation motifs on the S protein. The hyperglycosylated S of Gamma variant is more stable, resulting in more significant epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) potential. SARS-CoV-2 infection promoted NF-κB signaling activation and p65 nuclear translocation, inducing Snail expression. Pharmacologic inhibition of NF-κB activity by nature food compound, I3C suppressed viral replication and Gamma variant-mediated breast cancer metastasis, indicating that NF-κB inhibition can reduce chronic disease in COVID-19 patients. Our study revealed that the Gamma variant of SARS-CoV-2 activates NF-κB and, in turn, triggers the pro-survival function for cancer progression.

Ononin alleviates H2O2-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and improves cardiac function by activating the AMPK/mTOR/autophagy pathway

Ononin (ON) is an isoflavone with numerous reported bioactivities, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Autophagy is a critical homeostatic process in the body that has been reported to closely associate with the apoptotic processes of cardiomyocytes. Using flow cytometry, western blotting, echocardiography and Masson's staining, the present study investigated the effects of ON on H₂O₂-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and myocardial infarction, in addition to any potential underlying molecular mechanisms. H₂O₂ treatment reliably induced apoptosis in H9C2 cells. The anti-apoptotic effects of ON were revealed by flow cytometry results and by the downregulation of cleaved-caspase 3. Further investigations indicated that ON may alleviate apoptosis by enhancing autophagy, as evidenced by increased microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B expression and p62 degradation. Activation of the 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mTOR pathway was observed after ON administration following H₂O₂-induced cardiomyocyte injury. However, these anti-apoptotic effects mediated by ON were lost after autophagy inhibition by chloroquine or AMPK inhibition by Compound C. Finally, the protective effects of ON on cardiomyocytes in vitro could also be observed in vivo. A myocardial infarction model was established by ligating the left anterior descending branch of the rat heart. Using echocardiography and Masson's staining, ON was shown to increase the ejection fraction and decrease cardiac fibrosis in rats with myocardial infarction. These results suggest that ON exerts cardioprotective effects by improving autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities of an Endemic Species from Southern Algeria: Warionia saharae

Warionia saharae Benth. & Coss. (Asteraceae) is an endemic species of North Africa naturally grown in the southwest of the Algerian Sahara. In the present study, this species’ hydromethanolic leaf extract was investigated for its phenolic profile characterized by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and an electrospray mass spectrometer (UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS). Additionally, the chemical composition of W. saharae was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and its antioxidant potential was assessed through five in vitro tests: DPPH^● scavenging activity, ABTS^●+ scavenging assay, galvinoxyl scavenging activity, ferric reducing power (FRP), and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity. The UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analysis allowed the detection and quantification of 22 compounds, with taxifolin as the dominant compound. The GC–MS analysis allowed the identification of 37 compounds, and the antioxidant activity data indicate that W. saharae extract has a very high capacity to capture radicals due to its richness in compounds with antioxidant capacity. The extract also showed potent α-glucosidase inhibition as well as a good anti-inflammatory activity. However, weak anti-α-amylase and anticholinesterase activities were recorded. Moreover, an in silico docking study was performed to highlight possible interactions between three significant compounds identified in W. saharae extract and α-glucosidase enzyme.

A Polyphenol-Rich Extract of Olive Mill Wastewater Enhances Cancer Chemotherapy Effects, While Mitigating Cardiac Toxicity

Cardiovascular toxicity remains one of the most adverse side effects in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in cancer preventive polyphenols endowed with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant activities which could exert protective effects on heart cells. One very interesting derivative of EVOO preparation is represented by purified extracts from olive mill waste waters (OMWW) rich in polyphenols. Here, we have investigated the anti-cancer activity of a OMWW preparation, named A009, when combined with chemotherapeutics, as well as its potential cardioprotective activities. Mice bearing prostate cancer (PCa) xenografts were treated with cisplatin, alone or in combination with A009. In an in vivo model, we found synergisms of A009 and cisplatin in reduction of prostate cancer tumor weight. Hearts of mice were analyzed, and the mitochondria were studied by transmission electron microscopy. The hearts of mice co-treated with A009 extracts along with cisplatin had reduced mitochondria damage compared to the those treated with chemotherapy alone, indicating a cardioprotective role. To confirm the in vivo results, tumor cell lines and rat cardiomyocytes were treated with cisplatin in vitro, with and without A009. Another frequently used chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), was also tested in this assay, observing a similar effect. In vitro, the combination of A009 with cisplatin or 5-FU was effective in decreasing prostate and colon cancer cell growth, while it did not further reduce growth of rat cardiomyocytes also treated with cisplatin or 5-FU. A009 cardioprotective effects towards side effects caused by 5-FU chemotherapy were further investigated, using cardiomyocytes freshly isolated from mice pups. A009 mitigated toxicity of 5-FU on primary cultures of mouse cardiomyocytes. Our study demonstrates that the polyphenol rich purified A009 extracts enhance the effect of chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo, but mitigates chemotherpy adverse effects on heart and on isolated cardiomyocytes. Olive mill waste water extracts could therefore represent a potential candidate for cardiovascular prevention in patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy.

Metabolism and antioxidation regulation of total flavanones from Sedum sarmentosum Bunge against high-fat diet-induced fatty liver disease in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Diet-induced fatty liver is a considerable threaten to fish aquaculture due to the popularity of the high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Our study aims to investigate the effects of flavanones from Sedum sarmentosum Bunge (FSSB) on the liver function to identify a potential treatment for HFD-induced fatty liver disease. Physiological and pathological indicators were tested in the liver of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and results showed parameters including lipid metabolites, redox parameters, and inflammatory factors could be adequately restored to normal level by addition of 150 mg/kg FSSB to HFD. Proteomics analysis was performed in liver tissues from tilapia with normal diet (ND), HFD, and HFD+FSSB. Totally, 51 upregulated proteins and 77 downregulated proteins were identified in HFD groups and 67 proteins of them were restored after treated with FSSB. Bioinformatics analysis showed that differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in HFD+FSSB150 group compared with HFD group are mainly enriched in acety-CoA metabolic process, adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) biosynthetic process, lipid metabolic process, and phospholipid metabolic process. The dysregulated proteins were involved in peroxidosome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, fat digestion and absorption, and immune system. The quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay further revealed that the expression of GST, PPARα, PPARγ, and multiple-inflammatory cytokines could be also reversed in HFD group under the treatment of 150 mg/kg FSSB. Our findings demonstrated FSSB is efficient for the treatment of fatty liver disease through regulation of lipid metabolism and antioxidation in Nile tilapia, providing a new treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in fish aquaculture.

Current Updates on Potential Role of Flavonoids in Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Cardiac Injury Model

Clinically, timely reperfusion strategies to re-establish oxygenated blood flow in ischemic heart diseases seem to salvage viable myocardium effectively. Despite the remarkable improvement in cardiac function, reperfusion therapy could paradoxically trigger hypoxic cellular injury and dysfunction. Experimental laboratory models have been developed over the years to explain better the pathophysiology of cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, including the in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation cardiac injury model. Furthermore, the use of nutritional myocardial conditioning techniques have been successful. The cardioprotective potential of flavonoids have been greatly linked to its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties. While several studies have reviewed the cardioprotective properties of flavonoids, there is a scarce evidence of their function in the hypoxia-reoxygenation injury cell culture model. Hence, the aim of this review was to lay out and summarize our current understanding of flavonoids' function in mitigating hypoxia-reoxygenation cardiac injury based on evidence from the last five years. We also discussed the possible mechanisms of flavonoids in modulating the cardioprotective effects as such information would provide invaluable insight on future therapeutic application of flavonoids.

Impact of Dietary Factors on Brugada Syndrome and Long QT Syndrome

A healthy regime is fundamental for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In inherited channelopathies, such as Brugada syndrome (BrS) and Long QT syndrome (LQTS), unfortunately, sudden cardiac death could be the first sign for patients affected by these syndromes. Several known factors are used to stratify the risk of developing cardiac arrhythmias, although none are determinative. The risk factors can be affected by adjusting lifestyle habits, such as a particular diet, impacting the risk of arrhythmogenic events and mortality. To date, the importance of understanding the relationship between diet and inherited channelopathies has been underrated. Therefore, we describe herein the effects of dietary factors on the development of arrhythmia in patients affected by BrS and LQTS. Modifying the diet might not be enough to fully prevent arrhythmias, but it can help lower the risk.

Nutrigenomics in Regulating the Expression of Genes Related to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Nutrigenomics is the study of the gene-nutrient interaction and it indicates that some nutrients, called bioactive compounds, can mold the genetic expression or change the nucleotide chain. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites found in plants that are regularly consumed in functional foods and help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications. This article objected to review studies about the interaction of diet with polyphenols and Mediterranean diet in the expression of human genes related to T2DM. Resveratrol acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and increases mitochondrial function. Regular consumption of quercetin resulted in improvement of hypertension and suppression of diabetes-induced vasoconstriction. Genistein also showed positive results in T2DM, such as increased cell mass and improved glucose tolerance and insulin levels. Catechins showed efficiency in inducing genes in triacylglycerol biosynthesis, inhibition of fatty acids and cholesterol, and resulting in their participation in mitigating complications of diabetes. Lastly, curcumin was demonstrated to be a protector of the pancreatic islets against streptozotocin-induced oxidative stress. Growing evidence suggest that bioactive compounds such as polyphenols have an important role in T2DM and the prevention and treatment of its complication, as they cause activation or inhibition of related genes.

Dietary Flavonoids: Cardioprotective Potential with Antioxidant Effects and Their Pharmacokinetic, Toxicological and Therapeutic Concerns

Flavonoids comprise a large group of structurally diverse polyphenolic compounds of plant origin and are abundantly found in human diet such as fruits, vegetables, grains, tea, dairy products, red wine, etc. Major classes of flavonoids include flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavanols, anthocyanidins, isoflavones, and chalcones. Owing to their potential health benefits and medicinal significance, flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of medicinal, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic preparations. Moreover, flavonoids play a significant role in preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which could be mainly due to their antioxidant, antiatherogenic, and antithrombotic effects. Epidemiological and in vitro/in vivo evidence of antioxidant effects supports the cardioprotective function of dietary flavonoids. Further, the inhibition of LDL oxidation and platelet aggregation following regular consumption of food containing flavonoids and moderate consumption of red wine might protect against atherosclerosis and thrombosis. One study suggests that daily intake of 100 mg of flavonoids through the diet may reduce the risk of developing morbidity and mortality due to coronary heart disease (CHD) by approximately 10%. This review summarizes dietary flavonoids with their sources and potential health implications in CVDs including various redox-active cardioprotective (molecular) mechanisms with antioxidant effects. Pharmacokinetic (oral bioavailability, drug metabolism), toxicological, and therapeutic aspects of dietary flavonoids are also addressed herein with future directions for the discovery and development of useful drug candidates/therapeutic molecules.

Safflower Extract Inhibits ADP-Induced Human Platelet Aggregation

Safflower extract is commonly used as a traditional Chinese medicine to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. The antioxidant and anticancer properties of safflower extracts have been extensively studied, but their antiaggregative effects have been less analyzed. We found that safflower extract inhibited human platelet aggregation induced by ADP. In addition, we further analyzed several safflower extract compounds, such as hydroxysafflor yellow A, safflower yellow A, and luteolin, which have the same antiaggregative effect. In addition to analyzing the active components of the safflower extract, we also analyzed their roles in the ADP signaling pathways. Safflower extract can affect the activation of downstream conductors of ADP receptors (such as the production of calcium ions and cAMP), thereby affecting the expression of activated glycoproteins on the platelet membrane and inhibiting platelet aggregation. According to the results of this study, the effect of safflower extract on promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis may be related to its direct inhibition of platelet activation.

Potential Modulatory Microbiome Therapies for Prevention or Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

A disturbed interaction between the gut microbiota and the mucosal immune system plays a pivotal role in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Various compounds that are produced by the gut microbiota, from its metabolism of diverse dietary sources, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties in in vitro and in vivo models relevant to IBD. These gut microbiota-derived metabolites may have similar, or more potent gut homeostasis-promoting effects compared to the widely-studied short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Available data suggest that mainly members of the Firmicutes are responsible for producing metabolites with the aforementioned effects, a phylum that is generally underrepresented in the microbiota of IBD patients. Further efforts aiming at characterizing such metabolites and examining their properties may help to develop novel modulatory microbiome therapies to treat or prevent IBD.

Rat plasma protein binding of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside from Lu'an GuaPian tea and its anti-inflammatory mechanism for cardiovascular protection

Previous study found a high content of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (KR) in Lu'an GuaPian tea, however, the rat plasma protein binding and mechanism of KR for cardiovascular protection are unclear. Thus, we studied plasma protein binding using ultrafiltration followed by UPLC, and screened its inhibition against LPS-induced inflammation injury in vitro as well as the underlying mechanism by molecular docking and western blot. KR showed over 74% plasma protein binding ratio. Furthermore, KR may act on the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88). In vitro experiments showed that KR decreases the overexpression of TLR4, MyD88, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), which further validates the molecular docking results, suggesting that KR could block TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling. These results indicate that KR could be a potential active agent in the protection of myocardial injury. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Health benefits of tea are largely dependent on the intake of flavonoids. Flavonoids are a group of compounds beneficial to cardiovascular disease and an important part of "functional foods." Lu'an GuaPian tea is mainly produced in Lu'an City, Anhui Province and is one of the top 10 famous teas in China. Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside in Lu'an GuaPian has good hypoglycemic effect, mainly manifested in a strong inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities. Present study showed that kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside could block TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling, suggesting that it could be a potential active agent in the protection of myocardial injury.

Intracellular quercetin accumulation and its impact on mitochondrial dysfunction in intestinal Caco-2 cells

PURPOSE

Flavonoid bioavailability and bioactivity is associated with interindividual variability, which is partially due to differences in health status. Previously, it was demonstrated that cellular stress, especially mitochondrial stress, increases intracellular quercetin uptake and this is associated with beneficial health effects. Here, the impact of quercetin on mitochondrial dysfunction, induced by stressors targeting different sites of the electron transport chain, is investigated. The influence of the mitochondrial stress on quercetin uptake and subcellular location is studied and the accumulated quercetin metabolites in intestinal Caco-2 cells and mitochondria are characterized.

PRINCIPAL RESULTS

It was observed that quercetin counteracted (i) the carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP)-induced decrease in maximum oxygen consumption, (ii) the valinomycin-, oligomycin- and FCCP-induced reactive oxygen species production and (iii) the valinomycin-induced disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Using confocal microscopy, it was found that upon mitochondrial stress, the intracellular quercetin accumulation increased and was partially located in the mitochondria. Finally, it was demonstrated that quercetin was present as O-methyl, O-methylglucuronide and O-methylsulfate conjugates in the cell lysate and mitochondria-enriched fraction.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that quercetin can partially restore, especially FCCP-induced, mitochondrial dysfunction and this protective effect was linked with an intracellular quercetin accumulation in the mitochondria of intestinal cells.

Review of the Applications of Biomedical Compositions Containing Hydroxyapatite and Collagen Modified by Bioactive Components

Regenerative medicine is becoming a rapidly evolving technique in today's biomedical progress scenario. Scientists around the world suggest the use of naturally synthesized biomaterials to repair and heal damaged cells. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) has the potential to replace drugs in biomedical engineering and regenerative drugs. HAp is easily biodegradable, biocompatible, and correlated with macromolecules, which facilitates their incorporation into inorganic materials. This review article provides extensive knowledge on HAp and collagen-containing compositions modified with drugs, bioactive components, metals, and selected nanoparticles. Such compositions consisting of HAp and collagen modified with various additives are used in a variety of biomedical applications such as bone tissue engineering, vascular transplantation, cartilage, and other implantable biomedical devices.

Potential Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Spilanthes acmella and Its Health Beneficial Effects: A Review

Oxidative stress and inflammation are two common risk factors of various life-threatening disease pathogenesis. In recent years, medicinal plants that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were extensively studied for their potential role in treating and preventing diseases. Spilanthes acmella (S. acmella), which has been traditionally used to treat toothache in Malaysia, contains various active metabolites responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anesthetic bioactivities. These bioactivities were attributed to bioactive compounds, such as phenolic, flavonoids, and alkamides. The review focused on the summarization of in vitro and in vivo experimental reports on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of S. acmella, as well as how they contributed to potential health benefits in lowering the risk of diseases that were related to oxidative stress. The molecular mechanism of S. acmella in reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory targets, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), transcription factors of the nuclear factor-κB family (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways were discussed. Besides, the antioxidant potential of S. acmella was measured by total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonid content (TFC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and superoxide anion radical scavenging (SOD) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) assays. This review revealed that S. acmella might have a potential role as a reservoir of bioactive agents contributing to the observed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and health beneficial effects.

Integrated Multi-Omic Analyses of the Genomic Modifications by Gut Microbiome-Derived Metabolites of Epicatechin, 5-(4'-Hydroxyphenyl)-γ-Valerolactone, in TNFalpha-Stimulated Primary Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells

Cerebral blood vessels are lined with endothelial cells and form the blood-brain barrier. Their dysfunction constitutes a crucial event in the physiopathology of neurodegenerative disorders and cognitive impairment. Epicatechin can improve cognitive functions and lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease or stroke. However, molecular mechanisms of epicatechin on brain vascular endothelium are still unexplored. The objective of this study was to investigate the biological effects of gut microbiome-derived metabolites of epicatechin, 5-(4′-Hydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone-3′-sulfate and 5-(4′-Hydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone-3′-O-glucuronide, in TNF-α-stimulated human brain microvascular endothelial cells at low (nM) concentrations by evaluating their multi-omic modification (expression of mRNA, microRNA, long non-coding RNAs, and proteins). We observed that metabolites are biologically active and can simultaneously modulate the expression of protein-coding and non-coding genes as well as proteins. Integrative bioinformatics analysis of obtained data revealed complex networks of genomics modifications by acting at different levels of regulation. Metabolites modulate cellular pathways including cell adhesion, cytoskeleton organization, focal adhesion, signaling pathways, pathways regulating endothelial permeability, and interaction with immune cells. This study demonstrates multimodal mechanisms of action by which epicatechin metabolites could preserve brain vascular endothelial cell integrity, presenting mechanisms of action underlying epicatechin neuroprotective properties.

Urban living in healthy Tanzanians is associated with an inflammatory status driven by dietary and metabolic changes

Sub-Saharan Africa currently experiences an unprecedented wave of urbanization, which has important consequences for health and disease patterns. This study aimed to investigate and integrate the immune and metabolic consequences of rural or urban lifestyles and the role of nutritional changes associated with urban living. In a cohort of 323 healthy Tanzanians, urban as compared to rural living was associated with a pro-inflammatory immune phenotype, both at the transcript and protein levels. We identified different food-derived and endogenous circulating metabolites accounting for these differences. Serum from urban dwellers induced reprogramming of innate immune cells with higher tumor necrosis factor production upon microbial re-stimulation in an in vitro model of trained immunity. These data demonstrate important shifts toward an inflammatory phenotype associated with an urban lifestyle and provide new insights into the underlying dietary and metabolic factors, which may affect disease epidemiology in sub-Sahara African countries.

Study on the Correlation Between NF-κB and Central Fatigue

In recent years, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included fatigue as a major risk factor for human life and health. The incidence rate of fatigue is high. In Europe and America, nearly 1/3 of the population is suffering from fatigue. Due to the acceleration of modern people’s life rhythm and the increase of work pressure, more and more attention has been paid to central fatigue. The activation of NF-κB is related to central fatigue, which has been paid little attention by previous studies. At the same time, previous studies have mostly focused on the immune regulation function of NF-κB, while the NF-κB pathway plays an equally important role in regulating nerve function. NF-κB can participate in the occurrence and development of central fatigue by mediating immune inflammatory response, regulating central excitability and inhibitory transmitters, regulating synaptic plasticity and regulating central nervous system (CNS) functional genes. In addition to neuroprotective effects, NF-κB also has nerve damage effects, which is also closely related to the occurrence and development of central fatigue. In this review, we focus on the relationship between NF-κB pathway and central fatigue and further explore the biological mechanism of central fatigue. At the same time, the clinical application and potential of typical NF-κB inhibitors in the treatment of fatigue were analyzed to provide reference for the clinical treatment of central fatigue.

Plant Extracts and their Secondary Metabolites as Modulators of Kinases

Natural Products (NP), specifically from medicinal plants or herbs, have been extensively utilized to analyze the fundamental mechanisms of ultimate natural sciences as well as therapeutics. Isolation of secondary metabolites from these sources and their respective biological properties, along with their lower toxicities and cost-effectiveness, make them a significant research focus for drug discovery. In recent times, there has been a considerable focus on isolating new chemical entities from natural flora to meet the immense demand for kinase modulators, and also to overcome major unmet medical challenges in relation to signal transduction pathways. The signal transduction systems are amongst the foremost pathways involved in the maintenance of life and protein kinases play an imperative part in these signaling pathways. It is important to find a kinase inhibitor, as it can be used not only to study cell biology but can also be used as a drug candidate for cancer and metabolic disorders. A number of plant extracts and their isolated secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, and alkaloids have exhibited activities against various kinases. In the current review, we have presented a brief overview of some important classes of plant secondary metabolites as kinase modulators. Moreover, a number of phytocompounds with kinase inhibition potential, isolated from different plant species, are also discussed.

Phytochemicals and biological properties of Annona coriacea Mart. (Annonaceae): A systematic review from 1971 to 2020

Annona coriacea Mart., popularly known as "marolo", "araticum" and "araticum-liso" is a species distributed in Paraguay and Brazil, and easily found in Caatinga, Cerrado, and Pantanal biomes. The araticum has been used in folk medicine to treat stomatitis, neuralgia, rheumatism, headaches, furuncle, ulcers, and dermatitis. This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activity of A. coriacea. A search for scientific articles of electronic databases (Science Direct, PubMed, Lilacs, Scopus, Google Scholar, Scielo, and Web of Science) was performed identifying studies published until November 2020. All papers considering traditional medicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties were included. Forty-six articles (n = 212 subjects) met the inclusion criteria set for this review. Of the 46 articles reviewed, 34 were focused on biological activity investigations, while 12 were limited to phytochemical studies. These studies showed the presence of a diversity of secondary metabolites such as acetogenins, sesquiterpenes, alkaloids, flavonoids, and diterpenes. To date, pharmacological tests have demonstrated significant biological activities of this plant, being the most promising anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, and insecticide activities. Additionally, the medicinal utilization of A. coriacea appears to be promising, supporting its possible uses for human health with antioxidant, anxiolytic, antiulcer, insecticide, and antiparasitic activities. Ultimately, comprehensive studies involving clinical trials are required to validate the existing traditional practices and their related health benefits scientifically.

The NF-kB and Collagen Type 1 Expression in Dental Pulp after Treated Calcium Hydroxide Combined with Propolis

Objective  To analyze the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) and collagen type 1 on dental pulp after a treated combination of calcium hydroxide and propolis.

Materials and Methods  The first maxillary molars of 30 rats were mechanically perforated. Teeth were divided into three groups of 10 for two separate extraction time frames, giving a total of 60 rats. The control groups were treated with Cention, the second treatment groups were treated with calcium hydroxide, and the third treatment groups were treated with a combination of calcium hydroxide and propolis. Final restoration was done with Cention. The teeth were extracted on days 7 and 14, and the expression of NF-kB and collagen type I was analyzed using immunohistochemistry.

Results  There is lowest NF-kB expression and highest collagen type 1 expression on dental pulp after treated with a combination of calcium hydroxide and propolis on days 7 and 14 ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion  The combination of calcium hydroxide and propolis inhibits pulp inflammation and stimulates regeneration through decreasing the NF-kB expression and increasing collagen type 1.

Flavonoids: Nutraceuticals for Rheumatic Diseases via Targeting of Inflammasome Activation

Inflammation, an innate immune response that prevents cellular damage caused by pathogens, consists of two successive mechanisms, namely priming and triggering. While priming is an inflammation-preparation step, triggering is an inflammation-activation step, and the central feature of triggering is the activation of inflammasomes and intracellular inflammatory protein complexes. Flavonoids are natural phenolic compounds predominantly present in plants, fruits, and vegetables and are known to possess strong anti-inflammatory activities. The anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids has long been demonstrated, with the main focus on the priming mechanisms, while increasing numbers of recent studies have redirected the research focus on the triggering step, and studies have reported that flavonoids inhibit inflammatory responses and diseases by targeting inflammasome activation. Rheumatic diseases are systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases that primarily affect joints and connective tissues, and they are associated with numerous deleterious effects. Here, we discuss the emerging literature on the ameliorative role of flavonoids targeting inflammasome activation in inflammatory rheumatic diseases.

Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic and Oxidative Stress Inhibitory Activities of Terpenoids and Flavonols from Senegalia nigrescens (Oliv.) P.J.H. Hurter

Senegalia nigrescens (knob thorn) is a deciduous tree distributed in savannah regions from Tanzania to South Africa used for timber but also medicinally for the treatment of convulsions, wounds, and skin problems. In this study, the biological activities of six phytocompounds, namely: 3 β -hydroxy-20(29)-en-lupan-30-al (1), 30-hydroxylup-20(29)-en-3 β -ol (2), ent-kaur-15-en-18,20-diol (3), melanoxetin (4), quercetin (5) and quercetin-3-O-methyl ether (6), isolated from S. nigrescens were investigated. The compounds were screened against two bacterial (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and one fungal (Candida albicans) strain and were also tested for their cytotoxicity on breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) and normal murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell line. Effects of the compounds on attenuating the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in RAW 264.7 cells were quantified with the H2DCF-DA assay. This study revealed that flavonols (5 and 6) had the strongest antibacterial and antifungal effects, both having MIC values of 62.5, 31.25 and 31.25 µg/mL on E. coli, S. aureus and C. albicans, respectively. Compounds 2, 3 and 6 were the most cytotoxic against the breast cancer cells with IC50 values of 11.86, 12.62 and 14.03 µg/mL, respectively, while the least toxicity towards normal cells were observed in compounds 2, 5 and 6. All compounds (1-6) significantly lowered ROS production in RAW264.7 cells. In conclusion, tested compounds represent potential promising candidates as antimicrobial, anticancer and antidotes for LPS-induced oxidative stress. This is the first report on the antifungal, cytotoxicity and antioxidative activities of the ent-kaurene diterpenoid, ent-kaur-15-en-18,20-diol (3).