Steroidal lactones from Withania somnifera, an ancient plant for novel medicine

Role of nutraceuticals in cognition during aging and related disorders

Cognitive abilities are compromised with advancing age posing a great risk for the development of dementia and other related brain disorders. Genetic susceptibility as well as environmental exposures determine the fate of cognitive aging and its transition to pathological states. Emerging epidemiological and observational studies have revealed the importance of lifestyle factors including dietary patterns and nutritional intake in the maintenance of cognitive health and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. In this context, nutraceutical interventions have gained considerable attention in preventing age-related cognitive deficits and counteracting pathological processes. Nutraceuticals include dietary plants and derivatives, food supplements and processed foods with nutritional and pharmaceutical values. The present review highlights the importance of nutraceuticals in attenuating cognitive aging and its progression to dementia, with specific emphasis on chemical constituents, neurocognitive properties and mechanism of action.

Characterization and overexpression of sterol Δ22-desaturase, a key enzyme modulates the biosyntheses of stigmasterol and withanolides in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

Withanolides constitute an extensive and vital class of metabolites displaying wide array of structural and therapeutic properties with unique side-chain modifications. These show diversified scaffolds and are promising pharmaceutical molecules with well documented anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Sterols are dynamic class of compounds and essential molecules having structural and functional significance. These contribute to the synthesis of withanolides by providing structural precursors. In this context, we have characterized sterol Δ22-desaturase from Withania somnifera and also functionally validating it by confirming its desaturase nature in conjunction with quantitative real-time expression profiling and metabolite evaluation. Further, transgenic hairy roots of W. somnifera displayed a higher accumulation of stigmasterol and withanolides. The increase in chemical constituents was concomitant with an increased gene copy number predicted via Southern blotting. Additionally, transgenic lines of tobacco over-expressing WsCYP710A11 displayed a substantial increase in its expression, corroborating well with enhanced stigmasterol content. Characterization of CYP710A11 from W. somnifera and its homologous transgenic expression has demonstrated its role in the regulation of withanolides biosynthesis. It also exhibited a differential transcriptional profile in response to exogenous elicitations. These empirical findings suggest the crucial role of CYP710A11 in stigmasterol biosynthesis. This in turn has implications for the overproduction of withanolides via pathway channelling.

Withania somnifera L.: Insights into the phytochemical profile, therapeutic potential, clinical trials, and future prospective

Withania somnifera L. is a multipurpose medicinal plant of family Solanaceae occurring abundantly in sub-tropical regions of the world. The folk healers used the plant to treat several diseases such as fever, cancer, asthma, diabetes, ulcer, hepatitis, eyesores, arthritis, heart problems, and hemorrhoids. The plant is famous for the anti-cancerous activity, low back pain treatment, and muscle strengthening, which may be attributed to the withanolide alkaloids. W. somnifera is also rich in numerous valued secondary metabolites such as steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and glycosides. A wide range of preclinical trials such as cardioprotective, anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-depressant, and hypoglycemic have been attributed to various parts of the plant. Different parts of the plant have also been evaluated for the clinical trials such as male infertility, obsessive-compulsive disorder, antianxiety, bone and muscle strengthening potential, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic. This review focuses on folk medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological, and nutrapharmaceutical potential of the versatile plant.

In silico studies evidenced the role of structurally diverse plant secondary metabolites in reducing SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis

Plants are endowed with a large pool of structurally diverse small molecules known as secondary metabolites. The present study aims to virtually screen these plant secondary metabolites (PSM) for their possible anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties targeting four proteins/ enzymes which govern viral pathogenesis. Results of molecular docking with 4,704 ligands against four target proteins, and data analysis revealed a unique pattern of structurally similar PSM interacting with the target proteins. Among the top-ranked PSM which recorded lower binding energy (BE), > 50% were triterpenoids which interacted strongly with viral spike protein-receptor binding domain, > 32% molecules which showed better interaction with the active site of human transmembrane serine protease were belongs to flavonoids and their glycosides, > 16% of flavonol glycosides and > 16% anthocyanidins recorded lower BE against active site of viral main protease and > 13% flavonol glycoside strongly interacted with active site of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. The primary concern about these PSM is their bioavailability. However, several PSM recorded higher bioavailability score and found fulfilling most of the drug-likeness characters as per Lipinski's rule (Coagulin K, Kamalachalcone C, Ginkgetin, Isoginkgetin, 3,3'-Biplumbagin, Chrysophanein, Aromoline, etc.). Natural occurrence, bio-transformation, bioavailability of selected PSM and their interaction with the target site of selected proteins were discussed in detail. Present study provides a platform for researchers to explore the possible use of selected PSM to prevent/ cure the COVID-19 by subjecting them for thorough in vitro and in vivo evaluation for the capabilities to interfering with the process of viral host cell recognition, entry and replication.

Biotechnological Approach for the Production of Enantiomeric Hydroxylactones Derived from Benzaldehyde and Evaluation of Their Cytotoxic Activity

The β-aryl-δ-halo-γ-lactones are known for their antiproliferative activity towards numerous cancer cell lines. The aim of this study was to obtain in the biotransformation process new β-aryl-δ-hydroxy-γ-lactones and compare their activity with the antiproliferative activity of parent compounds. The racemic cis-5-(1-iodoethyl)-4-phenyldihydrofuran-2-one as well as separate enantiomers were transformed in fungal cultures. Among ten tested biocatalysts, three (Absidia cylindrospora AM336, Absidia glauca AM254, and Fusarium culmorum AM10) were able to catalyze the hydrolytic dehalogenation process. The biotransformations processes were highly stereoselective and enantiomerically pure hydroxylactones were obtained (ee ≥ 99%). The iodo- and hydroxylactone enantiomers were subjected to cytotoxic activity evaluation on canine leukemia and lymphoma cell lines. The iodolactones exhibited higher biological potential towards tested cell lines than hydroxylactones. Higher cytotoxic potential was also characteristic for (+)-(4S,5S,6R)-enantiomer of iodolactone compared to its antipode.

Withania somnifera dietary supplementation improves lipid profile, intestinal histomorphology in healthy Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), and modulates cytokines response to Streptococcus infection

Despite Withania somnifera (WS), stimulating effects have been investigated on many animal species, its role on lipid profile and intestinal histomorphology in healthy animals, and its modulating role on pro-inflammatory cytokines following infection in fish are yet scarce. In this context, lipid profile, liver, and intestinal histomorphology were measured in Nile tilapia fed with a basal diet or diets containing 2.5 and 5% of supplementary WS for 60 days. Besides, cytokines response was measured at 1, 3,7, and 14 days following Streptococcus iniae (S. iniae) infection after the feeding trial. All lipid profile parameters were nominally lowered, excluding high-density lipoprotein (HDL) that exhibited a significant increase in WS 5% group compared to other groups. Improved gut health integrity was observed, especially in WS 5% group in terms of increased goblet cell numbers, villous height, the width of lamina propria in all parts of the intestine, and a decrease in the diameter of the intestinal lumen of the distal intestine only. A significant down-regulation in the mRNA transcript level of cytokine genes (interleukin 1β/IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α/TNFα, and interleukin 6/IL-6) was demonstrated in the kidney and spleen of WS-supplemented groups following S. iniae infection compared with the control infected (positive control/PC) group. Our findings give new insights for the potential roles of WS dietary inclusion not only on lipid profile and intestinal health integrity improvement in healthy fish under normal rearing but also as a prophylactic against the infection. Thus, WS can be incorporated as a promising nutraceutical in aquaculture.

Preparation of Withaferin A nanoparticles extracted from Withania somnifera by the expansion of supercritical fluid solution

INTRODUCTION

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. is a plant with several important medicinal properties that have long been used in traditional therapy to treat some diseases.

OBJECTIVE

Micronisation reduces the particle size, which increases the bioavailability. In this study, due to the great potential of Withaferin A in the treatment of diseases, the nanoparticle formation of Withaferin A extracted from Withania somnifera, was considered.

METHODOLOGY

In the first step, the experimental parameters of supercritical fluid extraction of W. somnifera were optimised by central composite design (CCD). Then, the herbal extract was micronised using a new, repeatable, and robust method in terms of the expansion of carbon dioxide supercritical solvent. Also, the parameters of the experiment were optimised with the Draper-Lin small composite designs. Moreover, we identified Withaferin A nanoparticle in the extracted samples by utilising liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and the obtained precipitates were characterised using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).

RESULTS

The optimal conditions of the experiment were as follows: pressure drop 254 atm, at the temperature of 53°C, equilibrium time 23 min, and collection time 57 min. Based on the observed results, the optimum points for the size and number of Withaferin A nanoparticles were predicted as 5 and 5842 nm, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The nanoparticle production was accomplished through the expansion of supercritical solution, while the speed of expansion was much lower compared to the ordinary rapid expansion of supercritical solution (RESS) methods. Also, the nanonisation conditions, especially the pressure drop, significantly affected the formation of nanoparticles.

Effects of moderate high temperature and UV-B on accumulation of withanolides and relative expression of the squalene synthase gene in Physalis peruviana

Physalis peruviana L. (Cape gooseberry) is a source for a variety of phytocompounds such as withanolides, withanone, withaferin A, and withanolide A. These withanolides are high-value drug candidates due to their various pharmacological properties. To meet the increasing demands for these compounds, plant cell technology offers a reliable alternative. Exogenous addition of elicitors is considered the most effective strategy for enhanced production of secondary metabolites. In this study, we investigated changes in withanolide accumulation and characterized the gene expression level changes of squalene synthase enzyme in P. peruviana shoot cultures exposed to mild nonlethal heat stress (45°C for 2 and 5 h) and UV-B radiation (313 nm for 15 min and 3 h). We demonstrated significant changes in withanolide content with 7.86- and 12.5-fold increases for 2- and 5-hmild high-temperature exposure times, respectively. Exposure to UV-B also changed the withanolide content by 7.22- and 7-fold increases for 15 min and 3 h exposure times, respectively. The relative expression level of squalene synthase gene showed consistent results with1.80- and 10.13-fold increases in withanolide for 2- and 5-h mild high-temperature exposure times, and 1.34- and 2.01-fold increases with 15 min and 3 h UV-B exposure times, respectively.

Fatty acid and triacylglycerol composition of seed and pericarp oils of the medicinal crop Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal cultivated in Sardinia (Italy)

We studied the chemical composition and the nutritional properties of fixed oils extracted from seeds and pericarps of the medicinal plant Whitania somnifera. W. somnifera wild germplasm was collected in Sardinia (Italy) and cultivated in Campidano subregion (Southern Sardinia). The main fatty acids of seed oil were 18:2 n-6 (53%, 73.6 mg/g of dry weight), 18:1 n-9 (21%, 29.3 mg/g of dry weight), 16:0 (19%), and 18:0 (4%). Trilinolein and dilinolein derivatives represented the main seed oil triacylglycerols. Linoleic (40%, 67.7 mg/g of dry weight), oleic (29%, 48.7 mg/g of dry weight), palmitic (22%), stearic (4%) and α-linolenic (3%), were the main fatty acids in pericarp oil, with higher total level of monounsaturated fatty acids than seed oil, while monolinolein and dilinolein derivatives represented the main triacylglycerols. The results of this study qualify Sardinian W. somnifera berries as an interesting source of oils with nutritional properties.

Orthobiologics with phytobioactive cues: A paradigm in bone regeneration

Bone injuries occur due to various traumatic and disease conditions. Healing of bone injury occurs via a multi-stage intricate process. Body has the potential to rectify most of the bone injuries but some severe traumatic cases with critical size defects may require interventions. Autografts are still considered the "gold standard" for fracture healing but due to limitations associated with it, new alternatives are warranted. The field of orthobiologics has provided novel approaches using scaffolds, bioactive molecules, stem cells for the treatment of bone defects. Phyto-bioactives have been widely used in alternative medicine and folklore practices for curing bone ailments. It is believed that different bioactive constituents in plants work synergistically to give the therapeutic efficacy. Bioactives in plants extracts act upon different signal transduction pathways aiding in bone healing. The present review focuses on the use, chemical composition, mode of delivery, mechanism of action, and possible future strategies of three medicinal plants popularly used in traditional medicine for bone healing: Cissus quadrangularis, Withania somnifera and Tinospora cordifolia. Plants extracts seem to be a natural and non-toxic therapeutic alternative in treating bone injuries. Most of the studies on bone healing for these plants have reported oral administration of the extracts and presented them as a safe alternative without any side effects despite giving higher doses. Forthcoming studies could be directed towards the local delivery of extracts at the defect site. Unification of herbal extracts and orthobiologics could be an interesting direction in the field of bone healing in future. The present review intends to provide a bird's eye view of different strategies used in bone healing, mechanisms involved and future direction of advancements using phytobioactives and orthobiologics.

Withaferin A suppresses breast cancer cell proliferation by inhibition of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P9) channel TASK-3

Withaferin A (WFA), a C₅,C₆-epoxy steroidal lactone isolated from the medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, inhibits growth of tumor cells in different cancer types. However, the mechanisms underlying the effect of WFA on tumor cells are not fully understood. In the present study, we evaluated the blockade of TASK-3 channels by WFA in TASK-3-expressing HEK-293 cells. Explore if the WFA-mediated TASK-3 blockade can be used as a pharmacological tool to decrease the cell viability in cancer cells. A combination of functional experiments (patch-clamp, gene downregulation, overexpression and pharmacological inhibition) and molecular docking analysis were used to get insights into the mechanism by which the inhibition of TASK-3 by WFA affects the growth and viability of cancer cells. Withaferin A was found to inhibit the activity of TASK-3 channels. The inhibitory effect of Withaferin A on TASK-3 potassium currents was dose-dependent and independent of voltage. Molecular modeling studies identified putative WFA-binding sites in TASK-3 channel involved the channel blockade. In agreements with the molecular modeling predictions, mutation of residues F125 to A (F125A), L197 to V (L197 V) and the double mutant F125A-L197 V markedly decreased the WFA-induced inhibition of TASK-3. Finally, the cytotoxic effect of WFA was tested in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells transfected with TASK-3 or shRNA that decreases TASK-3 expression. Together, our results show that the cytotoxic effect of WFA on fully transformed MDA-MB-231 cells depends on the expression of TASK-3. Herein, we also provide insights into the mechanism of TASK-3 inhibition by WFA.

Comparative Plastomics of Ashwagandha (Withania, Solanaceae) and Identification of Mutational Hotspots for Barcoding Medicinal Plants

Within the family Solanaceae, Withania is a small genus belonging to the Solanoideae subfamily. Here, we report the de novo assembled chloroplast genome sequences of W. coagulans, W. adpressa, and W. riebeckii. The length of these genomes ranged from 154,162 to 154,364 base pairs (bp). These genomes contained a pair of inverted repeats (IRa and IRb) ranging from 25,029 to 25,071 bp that were separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region of 85,635-85,765 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,457-18,469 bp. We analyzed the structural organization, gene content and order, guanine-cytosine content, codon usage, RNA-editing sites, microsatellites, oligonucleotide and tandem repeats, and substitutions of Withania plastomes, which revealed high similarities among the species. Comparative analysis among the Withania species also highlighted 10 divergent hotspots that could potentially be used for molecular marker development, phylogenetic analysis, and species identification. Furthermore, our analyses showed that even three mutational hotspots (rps4-trnT, trnM-atpE, and rps15) were sufficient to discriminate the Withania species included in current study.

The role of natural products in revealing NRF2 function

Covering: up to 2020The transcription factor NRF2 is one of the body's major defense mechanisms, driving transcription of >300 antioxidant response element (ARE)-regulated genes that are involved in many critical cellular processes including redox regulation, proteostasis, xenobiotic detoxification, and primary metabolism. The transcription factor NRF2 and natural products have an intimately entwined history, as the discovery of NRF2 and much of its rich biology were revealed using natural products both intentionally and unintentionally. In addition, in the last decade a more sinister aspect of NRF2 biology has been revealed. NRF2 is normally present at very low cellular levels and only activated when needed, however, it has been recently revealed that chronic, high levels of NRF2 can lead to diseases such as diabetes and cancer, and may play a role in other diseases. Again, this "dark side" of NRF2 was revealed and studied largely using a natural product, the quassinoid, brusatol. In the present review, we provide an overview of NRF2 structure and function to orient the general reader, we will discuss the history of NRF2 and NRF2-activating compounds and the biology these have revealed, and we will delve into the dark side of NRF2 and contemporary issues related to the dark side biology and the role of natural products in dissecting this biology.

Bioactive compounds induced in Physalis angulata L. by methyl-jasmonate: an investigation of compound accumulation patterns and biosynthesis-related candidate genes

We employed both metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches to explore the accumulation patterns of physalins, flavonoids and chlorogenic acid in Physalis angulata and revealed the genes associated with the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds under methyl-jasmonate (MeJA) treatment. Physalis angulata L. is an annual Solanaceae plant with a number of medicinally active compounds. Despite the potential pharmacological benefits of P. angulata, the scarce genomic information regarding this plant has limited the studies on the mechanisms of bioactive compound biosynthesis. To facilitate the basic understanding of the main chemical constituent biosynthesis pathways, we performed both metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches to reveal the genes associated with the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds under methyl-jasmonate (MeJA) treatment. Untargeted metabolome analysis showed that most physalins, flavonoids and chlorogenic acid were significantly upregulated. Targeted HPLC-MS/MS analysis confirmed variations in the contents of two important representative steroid derivatives (physalins B and G), total flavonoids, neochlorogenic acid, and chlorogenic acid between MeJA-treated plants and controls. Transcript levels of a few steroid biosynthesis-, flavonoid biosynthesis-, and chlorogenic acid biosynthesis-related genes were upregulated, providing a potential explanation for MeJA-induced active ingredient synthesis in P. angulata. Systematic correlation analysis identified a number of novel candidate genes associated with bioactive compound biosynthesis. These results may help to elucidate the regulatory mechanism underlying MeJA-induced active compound accumulation and provide several valuable candidate genes for further functional study.

Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects

Withania somnifera, commonly known as "Ashwagandha" or "Indian ginseng" is an essential therapeutic plant of Indian subcontinent regions. It is regularly used, alone or in combination with other plants for the treatment of various illnesses in Indian Systems of Medicine over the period of 3,000 years. Ashwagandha (W. somnifera) belongs to the genus Withania and family Solanaceae. It comprises a broad spectrum of phytochemicals having wide range of biological effects. W. somnifera has demonstrated various biological actions such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-arthritic, anti-stress/adaptogenic, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, hepato-protective, immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, W. somnifera has revealed the capability to decrease reactive oxygen species and inflammation, modulation of mitochondrial function, apoptosis regulation and improve endothelial function. Withaferin-A is an important phytoconstituents of W. somnifera belonging to the category of withanolides been used in the traditional system of medicine for the treatment of various disorders. In this review, we have summarized the active phytoconstituents, pharmacologic activities (preclinical and clinical), mechanisms of action, potential beneficial applications, marketed formulations and safety and toxicity profile of W. somnifera.

Ameliorating effect of Withania somnifera root extract in Escherichia coli-infected broilers

The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of aqueous Withania somnifera root (WSR) extract in broiler chicks experimentally infected with Escherichia coli O78 @ 107 CFU/0.5 ml intraperitoneally. Clinical signs and mortality due to colibacillosis observed in infected chicks were mild and lasted for short duration in WSR extract supplemented group as compared with the nonsupplemented group. A significant increase in serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine phosphokinase activities and a decrease in total protein and albumin concentrations were observed in the infected groups, though these changes were of lower magnitude in WSR extract supplemented group. A significantly higher activity of oxidative blood parameters such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione-S-transferase enzymes were noticed in WSR extract supplemented group. The WSR extract supplemented group revealed significantly higher E. coli-specific antibody titer and enhanced lymphocyte proliferation response as compared with the nonsupplemented group. The gross and histopathological lesions of colibacillosis were mild in the WSR extract-supplemented infected group as compared with the nonsupplemented infected group. Withania somnifera root extract supplementation produced 31.48 and 34.38% protection in the gross and histopathological lesions in E. coli infected chicks, respectively. It is concluded that supplementation of 20% WSR extract @ 20 ml/L of water caused a reduction in the severity, mortality, and recovery period of E. coli infection and enhanced the humoral and cellular immune responses suggesting its protective effect on limiting the pathology of E. coli infection in broiler chickens.

Ashwagandha-induced liver injury: A case series from Iceland and the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is widely used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Several dietary supplements containing ashwagandha are marketed in the US and Europe, but only one case of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) due to ashwagandha has been published. The aim of this case series was to describe the clinical phenotype of suspected ashwagandha-induced liver injury.

METHODS

Five cases of liver injury attributed to ashwagandha-containing supplements were identified; three were collected in Iceland during 2017-2018 and two from the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) in 2016. Other causes for liver injury were excluded. Causality was assessed using the DILIN structured expert opinion causality approach.

RESULTS

Among the five patients, three were males; mean age was 43 years (range 21-62). All patients developed jaundice and symptoms such as nausea, lethargy, pruritus and abdominal discomfort after a latency of 2-12 weeks. Liver injury was cholestatic or mixed (R ratios 1.4-3.3). Pruritus and hyperbilirubinaemia were prolonged (5-20 weeks). No patient developed hepatic failure. Liver tests normalized within 1-5 months in four patients. One patient was lost to follow-up. One biopsy was performed, showing acute cholestatic hepatitis. Chemical analysis confirmed ashwagandha in available supplements; no other toxic compounds were identified. No patient was taking potentially hepatotoxic prescription medications, although four were consuming additional supplements, and in one case, rhodiola was a possible causative agent along with ashwagandha.

CONCLUSIONS

These cases illustrate the hepatotoxic potential of ashwagandha. Liver injury is typically cholestatic or mixed with severe jaundice and pruritus, but self-limited with liver tests normalizing in 1-5 months.

Flavonoids and Other Polyphenols Act as Epigenetic Modifiers in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a common cancer that occurs due to different epigenetic alterations and genetic mutations. Various epidemiological studies have demonstrated an inverse correlation between breast cancer incidence and flavonoid intake. The anti-cancer action of flavonoids, a class of polyphenolic compounds that are present in plants, as secondary metabolites has been a major topic of research for many years. Our review analysis demonstrates that flavonoids exhibit anti-cancer activity against breast cancer occurring in different ethnic populations. Breast cancer subtype and menopausal status are the key factors in inducing the flavonoid's anti-cancer action in breast cancer. The dose is another key factor, with research showing that approximately 10 mg/day of isoflavones is required to inhibit breast cancer occurrence. In addition, flavonoids also influence the epigenetic machinery in breast cancer, with research demonstrating that epigallocatechin, genistein, and resveratrol all inhibited DNA methyltransferase and altered chromatin modification in breast cancer. These flavonoids can induce the expression of different tumor suppressor genes that may contribute to decreasing breast cancer progression and metastasis. Additional studies are required to confirm the contribution of epigenetic modifications by flavonoids to breast cancer prevention.

Studies on Ashwagandha Ghrita with reference to murcchana process and storage conditions

Background

Withania somnifera (L.) (family-Solanaceae), known as ‘Indian ginseng’ or ‘Ashwagandha’ is acclaimed as an effective adaptogen, immunomodulator, aphrodisiac and sedative. Ashwagandhaghrita is a recognized ghee based Ayurvedic formulation. Few ancient texts suggest murcchana process for preparation of Ashwagandha ghrita.

Objective

The study was undertaken to evaluate probable effects of murcchana process on ghrita preparation with reference to time and storage conditions.

Materials and Methods

Ashwagandha ghrita samples were prepared separately using plain ghee (Indian cow's ghee) and murcchana ghee. These formulations were stored separately in different glass bottles at room temperature and 400C/75%RH. Organoleptic characters (colour, odour, taste, texture and touch) and physicochemical parameters (acid value, peroxide value, iodine value, saponification value, unsaponifiable matter, refractive index and specific gravity) were determined after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Plain ghee and prepared ghrita were subjected for antioxidant evaluation by various in vitro methods.

Results

Changes were observed in organoleptic characters and physicochemical parameters of plain ghee and Ashwagandha ghrita formulations. Alterations in these parameters were more pronounced at high temperature and on long storage. Ashwagandha ghrita prepared with murcchana process exhibited better antioxidant potential in all in vitro methods.

Conclusion

The murcchana process was found to be beneficial towards quality of ghrita. Hence, Ashwagandha ghrita may be prepared along with murcchana herbs and stored in a good quality glass bottle to ensure improved shelf life of ghrita.

Natural Products and Their Bioactive Compounds: Neuroprotective Potentials against Neurodegenerative Diseases

In recent years, natural products, which originate from plants, animals, and fungi, together with their bioactive compounds have been intensively explored and studied for their therapeutic potentials for various diseases such as cardiovascular, diabetes, hypertension, reproductive, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are characterized by the progressive dysfunction and loss of neuronal structure and function that resulted in the neuronal cell death. Since the multifactorial pathological mechanisms are associated with neurodegeneration, targeting multiple mechanisms of actions and neuroprotection approach, which involves preventing cell death and restoring the function to damaged neurons, could be promising strategies for the prevention and therapeutic of neurodegenerative diseases. Natural products have emerged as potential neuroprotective agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This review focused on the therapeutic potential of natural products and their bioactive compounds to exert a neuroprotective effect on the pathologies of neurodegenerative diseases.

Withania somnifera Extract Enhances Energy Expenditure via Improving Mitochondrial Function in Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle

Withania somnifera (WS), commonly known as ashwagandha, possesses diverse biological functions. WS root has mainly been used as an herbal medicine to treat anxiety and was recently reported to have an anti-obesity effect, however, the mechanisms underlying its action remain to be explored. We hypothesized that WS exerts its anti-obesity effect by enhancing energy expenditure through improving the mitochondrial function of brown/beige adipocytes and skeletal muscle. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) containing 0.25% or 0.5% WS 70% ethanol extract (WSE) for 10 weeks. WSE (0.5%) supplementation significantly suppressed the increases in body weight and serum lipids, and lipid accumulation in the liver and adipose tissue induced by HFD. WSE supplementation increased oxygen consumption and enhanced mitochondrial activity in brown fat and skeletal muscle in the HFD-fed mice. In addition, it promoted browning of subcutaneous fat by increasing mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression. Withaferin A (WFA), a major compound of WS, enhanced the differentiation of pre-adipocytes into beige adipocytes and oxygen consumption in C2C12 murine myoblasts. These results suggest that WSE ameliorates diet-induced obesity by enhancing energy expenditure via promoting mitochondrial function in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, and WFA is a key regulator in this function.

Berry transcriptome: insights into a novel resource to understand development dependent secondary metabolism in Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is considered as Rasayana in Indian systems of medicine. This study reports a novel transcriptome of W. somnifera berries, with high depth, quality and coverage. Assembled and annotated transcripts for nearly all genes related with the withanolide biosynthetic pathway were obtained. Tissue-wide gene expression analysis reflected almost similar definitions for the terpenoid pathway in leaf, root and berry tissues with relatively higher abundance of transcripts linked to steroid, phenylpropanoid metabolism as well as flavonoid metabolism in berries. The metabolome map generated from the data embodied transcripts from 143 metabolic pathways connected together and mediated collectively by about 1792 unique enzyme functions specific to berry, leaf and root tissues, respectively. Transcripts specific to cytochrome p450 (CYP450), methyltransferases and glycosyltransferases were distinctively located in a tissue specific manner and exhibited a complex network. Significant distribution of transcription factor genes such as MYB, early light inducible protein (ELI), minichromosome maintenance1, agamous, deficiens and serum response factor (MADS) and WRKY etc. was observed, as the major transcriptional regulators of secondary metabolism. Validation of the assembly was ascertained by cloning WsELI, which has a light dependent regulatory role in development. Quantitative expression of WsELI was observed to be considerably modulated upon exposure to abiotic stress and elicitors. Co-relation of over-expression of WsELI, may provide new aspects for the functional role of ELI proteins in plants linked to secondary metabolism. The study offers the first comprehensive and comparative evaluation of W. somnifera transcriptome data between the three tissues and across other members of Solanaceae (Nicotiana, Solanum and Capsicum) with respect to major pathways and their metabolome regulation.

Virus-Induced Gene Silencing for Functional Genomics in Withania somnifera, an Important Indian Medicinal Plant

Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) has emerged as a fast and efficient reverse and forward genetics tool to study gene function in model plants as well as in agriculturally important plants. In addition, VIGS approach has been successfully used to provide insights into the role of several genes and regulators involved in plant secondary metabolism. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an important Indian medicinal plant that accumulates pharmacologically important triterpenoid steroidal lactones, which are collectively termed as withanolides. W. somnifera being a highly recalcitrant plant for genetic transformation, Tobacco rattle virus (TRV)-mediated VIGS was established by our group to facilitate understanding of withanolides' pathway. Here, we describe a detailed procedure to carry out VIGS for gene function studies in W. somnifera.

A systematic review of the clinical use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) to ameliorate cognitive dysfunction

Many developed countries are experiencing a rapidly "greying" population, and cognitive decline is common in the elderly. There is no cure for dementia, and pharmacotherapy options to treat cognitive dysfunction provide limited symptomatic improvements. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), a popular herb highly valued in Ayurvedic medicine, has often been used to aid memory and cognition. This systematic review thus aimed to evaluate the clinical evidence base and investigate the potential role of W. somnifera in managing cognitive dysfunction. Using the following keywords [withania somnifera OR indian ginseng OR Ashwagandha OR winter cherry] AND [brain OR cognit* OR mental OR dementia OR memory], a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO and Clinicaltrials.gov databases found five clinical studies that met the study's eligibility criteria. Overall, there is some early clinical evidence, in the form of randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials, to support the cognitive benefits of W. somnifera supplementation. However, a rather heterogeneous study population was sampled, including older adults with mild cognitive impairment and adults with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder. In most instances, W. somnifera extract improved performance on cognitive tasks, executive function, attention, and reaction time. It also appears to be well tolerated, with good adherence and minimal side effects.

Cellular Stress-Modulating Drugs Can Potentially Be Identified by in Silico Screening with Connectivity Map (CMap)

Accompanied by increased life span, aging-associated diseases, such as metabolic diseases and cancers, have become serious health threats. Recent studies have documented that aging-associated diseases are caused by prolonged cellular stresses such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial stress, and oxidative stress. Thus, ameliorating cellular stresses could be an effective approach to treat aging-associated diseases and, more importantly, to prevent such diseases from happening. However, cellular stresses and their molecular responses within the cell are typically mediated by a variety of factors encompassing different signaling pathways. Therefore, a target-based drug discovery method currently being used widely (reverse pharmacology) may not be adequate to uncover novel drugs targeting cellular stresses and related diseases. The connectivity map (CMap) is an online pharmacogenomic database cataloging gene expression data from cultured cells treated individually with various chemicals, including a variety of phytochemicals. Moreover, by querying through CMap, researchers may screen registered chemicals in silico and obtain the likelihood of drugs showing a similar gene expression profile with desired and chemopreventive conditions. Thus, CMap is an effective genome-based tool to discover novel chemopreventive drugs.

Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Withaferin A: Potential in Integrative Oncology

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera, WS), belonging to the family Solanaceae, is an Ayurvedic herb known worldwide for its numerous beneficial health activities since ancient times. This medicinal plant provides benefits against many human illnesses such as epilepsy, depression, arthritis, diabetes, and palliative effects such as analgesic, rejuvenating, regenerating, and growth-promoting effects. Several clinical trials of the different parts of the herb have demonstrated safety in patients suffering from these diseases. In the last two decades, an active component of Withaferin A (WFA) has shown tremendous cytotoxic activity suggesting its potential as an anti-carcinogenic agent in treatment of several cancers. In spite of enormous progress, a thorough elaboration of the proposed mechanism and mode of action is absent. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the properties of WS extracts (WSE) containing complex mixtures of diverse components including WFA, which have shown inhibitory properties against many cancers, (breast, colon, prostate, colon, ovarian, lung, brain), along with their mechanism of actions and pathways involved.

Red light controlled callus morphogenetic patterns and secondary metabolites production in Withania somnifera L

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Combination of thidiazuron and naphthalene acetic acid induced callus growth in Withania somnifera.

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Red light improved callus growth with lower antioxidant enzymes activities.

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Violet light enhanced the total phenolic and flavonoid content in callus culture of W. somnifera.

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Withaferin A and chlorogenic acid were detected in callus cultures.

Withania somnifera L. is an endangered medicinal plant of higher market value. The in vitro callus cultures were established on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media augmented with different plant growth regulators. The MS medium containing 0.5 mg∙L⁻¹ of each TDZ and NAA was found to be optimal for callus formation and growth. Further, callus cultures were raised in different light wavelengths to find the right wavelength carrying the photons for the ideal cell growth of W. somnifera. Among the different wavelengths, red light was best for maximum biomass accumulation in callus culture. However, violet light condition was proven to be favouring the phenols and flavonoids synthesis in the callus cultures. Compared to other wavelengths, red light grown callus extract showed significantly higher content of chlorogenic acid, and withaferin A. This study concludes that red light treatment was optimum for maximum biomass accumulation and anti-oxidant activity in calli of W. somnifera.

Withaferin A inhibits lysosomal activity to block autophagic flux and induces apoptosis via energetic impairment in breast cancer cells

Withaferin A (WFA), a steroidal lactone, negatively regulates breast cancer growth however, its mechanisms of action remain largely elusive. We found that WFA blocks autophagy flux and lysosomal proteolytic activity in breast cancer cells. WFA increases accumulation of autophagosomes, LC3B-II conversion, expression of autophagy-related proteins and autophagosome/lysosome fusion. Autolysosomes display the characteristics of acidic compartments in WFA-treated cells; however, the protein degradation activity of lysosomes is inhibited. Blockade of autophagic flux reduces the recycling of cellular fuels leading to insufficient substrates for tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and impaired oxidative phosphorylation. WFA decreases expression and phosphorylation of lactate dehydrogenase, the key enzyme that catalyzes pyruvate-to-lactate conversion, reduces adenosine triphosphate levels and increases AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. AMPK inhibition abrogates while AMPK activation potentiates WFA's effect. WFA and 2-deoxy-d-glucose combination elicits synergistic inhibition of breast cancer cells. Genetic knockout of BECN1 and ATG7 fails to rescue cells from WFA treatment; in contrast, addition of methyl pyruvate to supplement TCA cycle protects WFA-treated cells. Together, these results implicate that WFA is a potent lysosomal inhibitor; energetic impairment is required for WFA-induced apoptosis and growth inhibition and combining WFA and 2-DG is a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.

An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) is a herb traditionally used to reduce stress and enhance wellbeing. The aim of this study was to investigate its anxiolytic effects on adults with self-reported high stress and to examine potential mechanisms associated with its therapeutic effects.

METHODS

In this 60-day, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study the stress-relieving and pharmacological activity of an ashwagandha extract was investigated in stressed, healthy adults. Sixty adults were randomly allocated to take either a placebo or 240 mg of a standardized ashwagandha extract (Shoden) once daily. Outcomes were measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale -21 (DASS-21), and hormonal changes in cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEA-S), and testosterone.

RESULTS

All participants completed the trial with no adverse events reported. In comparison with the placebo, ashwagandha supplementation was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the HAM-A (P = .040) and a near-significant reduction in the DASS-21 (P = .096). Ashwagandha intake was also associated with greater reductions in morning cortisol (P < .001), and DHEA-S (P = .004) compared with the placebo. Testosterone levels increased in males (P = .038) but not females (P = .989) over time, although this change was not statistically significant compared with the placebo (P = .158).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that ashwagandha's stress-relieving effects may occur via its moderating effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, further investigation utilizing larger sample sizes, diverse clinical and cultural populations, and varying treatment dosages are needed to substantiate these findings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI registration number: CTRI/2017/08/009449; date of registration 22/08/2017).

Phenolic acids: Natural versatile molecules with promising therapeutic applications

Plant phenolics are considered to be a vital human dietary component and exhibit a tremendous antioxidant activity as well as other health benefits. Epidemiology evidence indicates that a diet rich in antioxidant fruits and vegetables significantly reduces the risk of many oxidative stress related diseases viz. cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular. The number and position of hydroxyl group in a particular phenolic compound leads to the variation in their antioxidant potential. Polyphenols are the main source of dietary antioxidants, and are effortlessly absorbed in the intestine. Phenolic acids, a sub class of plant phenolics, possess phenol moiety and resonance stabilized structure which causes the H-atom donation results in antioxidant property through radical scavenging mechanism. Other mode such as radical quenching via electron donation and singlet oxygen quenching are also known for the antioxidant activity of phenolic acids. Furthermore, phenolic acids are found ubiquitously and well documented for other health protective effects like antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic etc. The contribution emphasize on the phenolic acids potential in drug discovery. In addition their occurrence, biosynthesis, metabolism and health effects are discussed in detail.

Small-Intestine-Specific Delivery of Antidiabetic Extracts from Withania coagulans Using Polysaccharide-Based Enteric-Coated Nanoparticles

Withania coagulans is an Indian medicinal herb, the natural extracts of which are purported to have health-benefiting properties. In this study, the extract was encapsulated in nature-derived polymers with the aim of enhancing its bioavailability. The aqueous extract obtained from the plant W. coagulans was found to elicit the glucose-lowering effect by means of promoting insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells. The cells treated with the extract showed a nearly 2-fold increase in insulin secretion compared to untreated cells. A delivery system for the extract was developed based on electrosprayed chitosan nanoparticles coated with food-based starch. The enteric starch coating retarded (by 2.5 times) the release of the extract in the stomach. The bioactivity of the encapsulated extract was subsequently tested in vitro on mouse-derived pancreatic β cells, whereby the delivery system was found to promote insulin secretion. Finally, the extract-encapsulated oral delivery system was tested on diabetic mice and was validated to decrease blood glucose levels by 60%. In summary, it could be inferred that food-grade enteric-coated polysaccharide-based particles increase the bioavailability of the extracted compounds from the plant W. coagulans.

Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities

Subcritical water extraction (SWE) applied to analyses the bioactives from ashwagandha (W. somnifera) at varying temperature (100-200 °C) and extraction time (10-30 min). The effect of temperature and time has been investigated in terms of extraction yield (EY), total phenolic content (TPC), cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory activities. The withanosides and withanolides responsible for various biological effects were quantified using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The HPLC analysis revealed Withanoside V, Withanoside IV, 12-Deoxywithastramonolide, Withanolide A, and Withaferin A as a principle bioactive compounds in SWE, with high in concentration compared to microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), Soxhlet extraction (SE) and maceration (MC). For SWE the highest EY (65.6%; 200 °C for 30 min), TPC (82.5 mg GAE/g DE), antioxidant activity (DPPH: 80.3%, FRAP: 60.5% and ABTS: 78.9), and potent enzyme inhibitory effects were observed. The SWE and Withaferin A showed significant reduction in cell viability of cervical cancer (HeLa) cells, with IC₅₀ values 10 mg/ml and 8.5 μM/ml, respectively but no cytotoxic effect for normal cells (MDCK). Thus, SWE can provide effective extraction for ashwagandha withanosides and withanolides compared MAE, SE and MC to conventional methods, which could be used for extraction of pharmacologically active fractions with therapeutic applications.

Withaferin A-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells is associated with alterations in mitochondrial dynamics

Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from a medicinal plant (Withania somnifera), inhibits cancer development in transgenic and chemically-induced rodent models of breast cancer but the underlying mechanism is not fully grasped. We have shown previously that WA treatment causes apoptotic cell death in human breast cancer cells that is preceded by inhibition of complex III of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. This study extends these observations to now demonstrate alterations in mitochondrial dynamics in WA-induced apoptosis. Assembly of complex III was decreased in MCF-7 and SUM159 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 as determined by native blue gel electrophoresis. Because WA is a Michael acceptor (electrophile), we explored the possibility of whether it covalently modifies cysteine residue(s) in ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase, Rieske iron-sulfur polypeptide 1 (UQCRFS1). Covalent modification of cysteine in UQCRFS1 was not observed after WA treatment. Instead, WA treatment inhibited chemically-induced mitochondrial fusion and decreased the mitochondrial volume, and this effect was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of proteins involved in fusion process, including mitofusin1, mitofusin2, and full-length optic atrophy protein 1 (OPA1). A loss of volume in fragmented mitochondria also occurred in WA-exposed cells when compared to vehicle-treated control. WA treatment also caused a decrease in protein level of mitochondrial fission-regulating protein dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1). Functional studies revealed that DRP1 deficiency and OPA1 knockdown attenuated apoptotic potential of WA. Taken together, these results indicate that WA not only alters Complex III assembly but also inhibits mitochondrial dynamics in breast cancer cells.

Isolation, characterization and DFT studies of epoxy ring containing new withanolides from Withania coagulans Dunal

A new withanolide named as withacoagulin J (1) along with a known withanolide H (2) from Withania coagulans Dunal are reported in this paper. The isolated compounds were elucidated by using 1D-NMR (¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR) and 2D-NMR including homonuclear (COSY, NOESY) and heteronuclear (HSQC, HMBC); along with Mass spectrometry, UV-Visible and IR spectroscopic techniques. The molecular formula based on Fast-Atom Bombardment Mass Spectrometry [FAB-MS (M + 1)] for 1 and 2 were deduced as C₂₈H₃₇O₅ and C₂₈H₃₉O₆ with m/z values 453.2624 and 471.6041, respectively. The quantum mechanical studies of both compounds are based on DFT calculations. The DFT studies show band gaps of 4.86 and 4.83 eV for 1 and 2, respectively. The band gaps of 1 and 2 reflect high stability and resistivity towards oxidation-reduction reactions. The energies of HOMO and LUMO for compound 1 are -6.11 and -1.25 eV and for compound 2: -6.47 and -1.64 eV respectively. Theoretical and experimental FTIR data closely match for both the compounds which support the high accuracy of the computational protocol selection. Other parameters such as bond lengths, bond angles and dihedral angles for both compounds are also studied.

A validated HPTLC method for the simultaneous quantifications of three phenolic acids and three withanolides from Withania somnifera plants and its herbal products

A simple, rapid and selective high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method has been developed and validated for simultaneous determination of three withanolides (withaferin A, withanone and withanolide A) and three phenolic acids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid and benzoic acid) from different parts (root, stem and leaf) of Withania somnifera and its two commercially available polyherbal formulations. The extraction efficiency of withanolides and phenolic acids were tested using two solvents, chloroform and methanol, respectively. HPTLC separation was performed on silica coated aluminium plates Si 60F₂₅₄; using toluene, ethyl acetate and acetic acid (60:40:4). The samples were quantitated at 231 nm. The purity and identity of peaks of all the six analytes were confirmed by matching Rf values and UV-spectrum with authentic standards. The identity of three withanolides was further confirmed by positive ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) analyses. The developed method was validated for sensitivity, linearity, reproducibility, accuracy, the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) following the guidelines of the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). The method was found to be linear (r > 0.99) in the range of 50-2000 ng/band for benzoic acid and 50-1000 ng/band for the other five studied metabolites. This simple and accurate HPTLC method provided enhanced resolution of studied analytes as compared to other phytoconstituents present in W. somnifera extracts. It has also been successfully applied in the analysis and quantification of two polyherbal formulations containing W. somnifera plant parts.

Concomitant Inhibition of Cytoprotective Autophagy Augments the Efficacy of Withaferin A in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality, and despite recent advances in early diagnosis and therapeutics, HCC related morbidity and mortality rate continue to rise. Clearly, it is imperative to develop novel effective therapies for HCC to improve long-term survival of HCC patients. We found that Withaferin A (WFA), a bioactive compound derived from Withania somnifera, is an effective agent for HCC inhibition. Interestingly, we observed that in addition to inducing apoptotic cell death, WFA also induces autophagy in HCC cells. Utilizing mRFP-EGFP-LC3B, LC3B-GFP/Lysotracker and LC3B-GFP/Rab7-RFP, we show that WFA induces autophagosomes-lysosomes fusion. WFA-induced autolysosomes exhibit intact protein degradation activity as evident with cathepsin-D activation and DQ-BSA assays. Importantly, we present that inhibiting WFA-induced autophagy either by blocking autophagosome-formation or by elevating lysosomal pH (Chloroquine and Bafilomycin) enhances WFA-induced growth-inhibition and apoptosis, indicating the presence of cytoprotective autophagy. Indeed, WFA and CQ combination shows synergism and higher efficacy in comparison to either monotherapy. Collectively, we reveal that the efficacy of WFA is somewhat diminished by the concomitant induction of cytoprotective autophagy which can be successfully conquered by cotreatment with CQ, and we pave the way for development of a novel combination therapeutic strategy for HCC.

Innate endophytic fungus, Aspergillus terreus as biotic elicitor of withanolide A in root cell suspension cultures of Withania somnifera

In the present study, root cell suspension cultures of W. somnifera were elicited with mycelial extract (1% w/v) and culture filtrate (5% v/v) of their native endophytic fungus Aspergillus terreus 2aWF in shake flask. Culture filtrate of A. terreus 2aWF significantly elicits withanolide A at 6H (12.20 ± 0.52 µg/g FCB). However, with A. terreus 2aWF mycelial extract, withanolide A content was higher at 24H (10.29 µg/g FCB). Withanolide A content was maximum with salicylic acid (0.1 mM) treatment at 24H (8.3 ± 0.20 µg/g FCB). Further, expression analysis of withanolide pathway genes, hydrogen peroxide production, and lipid peroxidation was carried out after 48H of elicitation with 2aWF mycelial extract and culture filtrate. The expression levels of withanolides biosynthetic pathway genes, viz. HMGR, DXR, FPPS, SQS, SQE, CAS, SMT1, STE1 and CYP710A1 were quantified by real time PCR at 48H of elicitation. In all the treatments, the expression levels of key genes were significantly upregulated as compared to untreated suspension cells. Hydrogen peroxide was noticeably enhanced in SA, mycelia extract and culture filtrate, at 20% (115 ± 4.40 nM/g FCB), 42% (137.5 ± 3.62 nM/g FCB), and 27% (122.8 ± 1.25 nM/g FCB) respectively; however, lipid peroxidation was 0.288 ± 0.014, 0.305 ± 0.041 and 0.253 ± 0.007 (µM/gm FCB) respectively, higher than the control (0.201 ± 0.007 µM/gm FCB).

Medical Plants and Nutraceuticals for Amyloid-β Fibrillation Inhibition

Plaque formation due to amyloid-β oligomerization and fibrillation is a key issue for its deposition in the brains of dementia and Alzheimer's disease patients. Related drugs preventing this peptide fibril accumulation bear the potential of considerable medical and social value. In this study, we performed in vitro fibrillation inhibition tests with eight different medical plant extracts and nutraceuticals using fluorescence spectroscopy. Successful inhibition of the following plant extracts and nutraceuticals were obtained: Withania somnifera, Centella asiatica, Bacopa monnieri, and Convolvulus pluricaulis, providing new drug candidates for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Drier Climatic Conditions Increase Withanolide Content of Withania coagulans Enhancing Its Inhibitory Potential Against Human Prostate Cancer Cells

Prostate cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths in men and there is a growing interest in identifying natural compounds for its management. We analyzed bioactive withanolides in Withania coagulans from 11 different sites in Pakistan and evaluated the antiprostate cancer activities of leaf extracts from two sites with the greatest amounts. Total withanolide concentration differed by ~ 17-fold between sites, ranging from 1.01 ± 0.01 mg/g dry weight (mean ± SE) at Jand to 16.83 ± 0.02 mg/g at Mohmand Agency. Different tissues varied in their total withanolide content with roots having the least (0.42 ± 0.07 mg/g dry weight) and leaves the most (2.45 ± 0.45 mg/g). We found strong inverse correlations between site annual precipitation versus withanolide amounts in fruits (r = - 0.84, P = 0.001), leaves (r = - 0.88, P < 0.001), roots (r = - 0.91, P < 0.001), and total (r = - 0.89, P < 0.001), but not stems (r = - 0.20, P = 0.556). Extracts made from Mianwali and Mohmand Agency leaves possessed high anticancer activity in terms of increased induction of apoptosis and decreased cell viability, cell proliferation, invasion, and migration of different prostate cancer cell lines. These results are useful for the selection of withanolide-rich germplasm with potent anticancer properties.