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Patel KS, Dharamsi A, Priya M, Jain S, Mandal V, Girme A, Modi SJ, Hingorani L. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract attenuates chronic scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment, amyloid beta, and neurofibrillary tangles accumulation in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117898. [PMID: 38341114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Crocus sativus L. known as saffron, is a popular food condiment with a high aroma, deep colour, and long and thick threads (stigmas) cultivated in Iran, Morocco, Spain, Italy, China, Japan, France, Turkey, and India. In 'Ayurveda', saffron is acknowledged for its immunostimulant, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, liver tonic, nervine tonic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactagogue, febrifuge, sedative, relaxant, and anxiolytic activities. The renowned Persian physician and philosopher, Avicenna, delineated saffron as an antidepressant, hypnotic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, bronchodilator, and aphrodisiac in his book, the Canon of Medicine. Within traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM), saffron is characterized as a mood elevator and a rejuvenator for the body and senses. Further, the ethnopharmacological evidence indicates that saffron has shown an effect against neurodegenerative disorders namely, dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's with its bioactive constituents i.e., carotenoids and apocarotenoids. AIM The present study aimed to investigate the potential of standardized (Kashmir Saffron, India) Crocus sativus extract (CSE) in chronic scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) accumulation in rat brains by targeting AChE inhibition and scopolamine mechanistic effect. METHODS The experimental animals were divided into six groups: group 1: normal control, group 2: scopolamine, group 3,4 and 5 rivastigmine tartrate, CSE (p.o. 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg) respectively. Each treatment group received scopolamine after 20 min of dosing, till 4 weeks. The effects of different treatments on learning, acquisition, and reversal memory were performed using a Morris water maze test. In addition to behavioral assessments, biochemical parameters such as AChE, IL-6, and antioxidants were measured in isolated brains. Histological observations were also conducted to assess the presence of Aβ plaques and NFT. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to explore the potential AChE inhibitory activity of the bioactive constituents of standardized CSE. RESULTS Scopolamine produces memory impairment, and its chronic administration forms Aβ plaque and NFT in rat brains. Supplementation with CSE in presence of scopolamine has shown remarkable effects on behavioural activity, special acquisition, and reversal memory. The CSE has also shown promising effects on AChE inhibition and antioxidant activity. The results of the docking study also indicate that trans-crocetin, i.e., a biologically active metabolite of Crocins, has strong AChE inhibitory activity, supported by an in vivo animal experiment. CONCLUSION Supplementation with CSE significantly attenuates the formation of Aβ plaque and NFT in the hippocampus at a dose of 20 mg/kg per day. In addition, CSE also counters scopolamine-induced neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal S Patel
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Abhay Dharamsi
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Madhu Priya
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Sanskar Jain
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Vishal Mandal
- Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, 391760, Gujarat, India.
| | - Aboli Girme
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | | | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
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Yaribeygi H, Maleki M, Rashid-Farrokhi F, Abdullahi PR, Hemmati MA, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. Modulating effects of crocin on lipids and lipoproteins: Mechanisms and potential benefits. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28837. [PMID: 38617922 PMCID: PMC11015417 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia poses a significant risk to cardiovascular health in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to normalize lipid homeostasis in order to prevent or minimize complications associated with dyslipidemia. However, pharmacological interventions for controlling lipid metabolism often come with adverse effects. As an alternative, utilizing herbal-based agents, which typically have fewer side effects, holds promise. Crocin, a naturally occurring nutraceutical, has been shown to impact various intracellular pathways, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate inflammatory processes. Recent evidence suggests that crocin may also confer lipid-related benefits and potentially contribute to the normalization of lipid homeostasis. However, the specific advantages and the cellular pathways involved are not yet well understood. In this review, we present the latest findings regarding the lipid benefits of crocin, which could be instrumental in preventing or reducing disorders associated with dyslipidemia. Additionally, we explore the potential cellular mechanisms and pathways that mediate these lipid benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habib Yaribeygi
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Mina Maleki
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farin Rashid-Farrokhi
- CKD Research Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, IranNephrology Department, Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Telemedicine Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Amin Hemmati
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Martins A, Conte M, Goettert MI, Contini V. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and inflammation: natural product-derived treatments-a review of the last ten years. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:2939-2954. [PMID: 37740887 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01339-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Stimulant medication is the main pharmacological treatment for ADHD. However, the traditional pharmacological treatments may have significant side effects; therefore, non-pharmacological approaches are needed. Thus, there has been growing interest in alternative herbal treatments. The aim of this review was to comprehensively assess the current evidence for plant-based treatment of ADHD in human and animal models, as well as their ability to modulate the inflammatory process. METHODS This study was an integrative review of the current evidence for the plant-based treatment of ADHD. The research involved using literature available on PubMed and Scopus databases. FINDINGS Spontaneously hypersensitive rats treated with baicalin exhibited significant reductions in locomotion, increased spatial learning skills, and increased levels of dopamine in the striatum. Supplementation with Sansonite improved memory and attention capacity. In human studies, Ginkgo biloba significantly improved the symptoms of inattention and reduced memory impairment. In studies conducted using Korean Red ginseng, Klamath, and Crocus sativus L., the patients showed significant improvements in symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the identified plants modulate the inflammatory process through pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide, Th cells, Toll-like receptor 4, and mitogen-activated protein kinases. CONCLUSION All the studies included in this review focused on plants with demonstrated potential against inflammatory processes, positioning them as promising candidates for ADHD treatment, due to their potential to attenuate or even prevent neuroinflammatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Martins
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Universidade of Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Talini, 171 - Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, RS, 95914-014, Brazil
| | - Magali Conte
- Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brazil
| | - Márcia Inês Goettert
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Universidade of Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Talini, 171 - Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, RS, 95914-014, Brazil
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tubingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Verônica Contini
- Graduate Program in Biotechnology, Universidade of Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Talini, 171 - Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, RS, 95914-014, Brazil.
- Graduate Program in Medical Science, Universidade of Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brazil.
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Xu X, Chen B, Zhang J, Lan S, Wu S, Xie W. Transcriptome and metabolome analysis revealed the changes of Geniposide and Crocin content in Gardenia jasminoides fruit. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:6851-6861. [PMID: 37392282 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08613-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gardenia jasminoides Ellis is a perennial evergreen shrub of G. jasminoides of Rubiaceae. Geniposide and Crocin are important components in the fruit of G. jasminoides. In addition to being used as medicinal materials, they are also widely used in food, medicine, cosmetics, and other fields. They have high medicinal value, economic value, and ornamental value. However, at present, the utilization rate of G. jasminoides resources is low, mainly focused on germplasm cultivation, primary processing, and clinical pharmacology, and there are few studies on the quality of Gardenia fruit. METHODS AND RESULTS Based on transcriptome sequencing and metabolic group analysis, the morphological and structural changes of Gardenia fruit with young fruit, middle fruit, and ripe fruit were analyzed, and the formation mechanism and content changes of Geniposide and Crocin in Gardenia fruit were studied. The content of Geniposide decreased with the development of fruit, so did the expression of the main structural gene GES, G10H, and IS in its synthesis pathway, while the content of Crocin increased with the development of fruit, and the expression of the main structural gene CCD, ALDH, and UGT in its synthesis pathway also increased. The relationship between the morphological structure of G. jasminoides and the accumulation of Geniposide and Crocin was summarized. CONCLUSIONS This study not only provides a theoretical basis for the mining and utilization of Geniposide and Crocin, but also provides a theoretical basis for genetic background for the identification and cloning of bioactive substances in gardenia fruit in future. At the same time, it provides support for increasing the dual-use value of G. jasminoides and breeding excellent germplasm resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Xu
- College of Landscape and Architecture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, Fujian, China
| | - Bihua Chen
- Fujian Academy of Forestry Sciences, Fuzhou, 350012, Fujian, China.
| | - Juan Zhang
- Fujian Academy of Forestry Sciences, Fuzhou, 350012, Fujian, China
| | - Siren Lan
- College of Landscape and Architecture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, Fujian, China
| | - Shasha Wu
- College of Landscape and Architecture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, Fujian, China
| | - Weiwei Xie
- Fujian Academy of Forestry Sciences, Fuzhou, 350012, Fujian, China
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Thakral S, Yadav A, Singh V, Kumar M, Kumar P, Narang R, Sudhakar K, Verma A, Khalilullah H, Jaremko M, Emwas AH. Alzheimer's disease: Molecular aspects and treatment opportunities using herbal drugs. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 88:101960. [PMID: 37224884 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), also called senile dementia, is the most common neurological disorder. Around 50 million people, mostly of advanced age, are suffering from dementia worldwide and this is expected to reach 100-130 million between 2040 and 2050. AD is characterized by impaired glutamatergic and cholinergic neurotransmission, which is associated with clinical and pathological symptoms. AD is characterized clinically by loss of cognition and memory impairment and pathologically by senile plaques formed by Amyloid β deposits or neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) consisting of aggregated tau proteins. Amyloid β deposits are responsible for glutamatergic dysfunction that develops NMDA dependent Ca2+ influx into postsynaptic neurons generating slow excitotoxicity process leading to oxidative stress and finally impaired cognition and neuronal loss. Amyloid decreases acetylcholine release, synthesis and neuronal transport. The decreased levels of neurotransmitter acetylcholine, neuronal loss, tau aggregation, amyloid β plaques, increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, bio-metal dyshomeostasis, autophagy, cell cycle dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction are the factors responsible for the pathogenesis of AD. Acetylcholinesterase, NMDA, Glutamate, BACE1, 5HT6, and RAGE (Receptors for Advanced Glycation End products) are receptors targeted in treatment of AD. The FDA approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors Donepezil, Galantamine and Rivastigmine and N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist Memantine provide symptomatic relief. Different therapies such as amyloid β therapies, tau-based therapies, neurotransmitter-based therapies, autophagy-based therapies, multi-target therapeutic strategies, and gene therapy modify the natural course of the disease. Herbal and food intake is also important as preventive strategy and recently focus has also been placed on herbal drugs for treatment. This review focuses on the molecular aspects, pathogenesis and recent studies that signifies the potential of medicinal plants and their extracts or chemical constituents for the treatment of degenerative symptoms related to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samridhi Thakral
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Alka Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Vikramjeet Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India.
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Rakesh Narang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra 136119, Haryana, India
| | - Kalvatala Sudhakar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
| | - Amita Verma
- Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India.
| | - Habibullah Khalilullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unayzah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Emwas
- Core Labs, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
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Wani MJ, Salman KA, Moin S, Arif A. Effect of crocin on glycated human low-density lipoprotein: A protective and mechanistic approach. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 286:121958. [PMID: 36244155 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Human low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is known to have a role in coronary artery diseases when it undergoes modification due to hyperglycaemic conditions. Plant products like crocin play an essential role in protecting against oxidative stress and in the production of advanced glycation end-products (A.G.E.s). In this study, the anti-glycating effect of crocin was analyzed using various biochemical, spectroscopic, and in silico approaches. Glycation-mediated oxidative stress was confirmed by nitroblue tetrazolium, carbonyl content, and lipid peroxidation assays, and it was efficiently protected by crocin in a concentration-dependent manner. A.N.S. fluorescence, thioflavin T (ThT) assay, and electron microscopy confirmed that the structural changes in LDL during glycation lead to the formation of fibrillar aggregates, which can be minimized by crocin treatment. Moreover, secondary structural perturbations in LDL were observed using circular dichroism (CD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), where crocin was found to prevent the loss of secondary structure in glycated LDL. Spectroscopic studies like U.V. absorbance, fluorescence spectroscopy, CD, FTIR, and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) provided insights into the interaction mechanism between LDL and crocin. Molecular docking supports these results with a highly negative binding energy of -10.3 kcal/mol, suggesting the formation of a stable ldl-crocin complex. Our study indicates that crocin may be a potent protective agent against coronary artery diseases by limiting the glycation of LDL in people with such disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Junaid Wani
- Department of Biochemistry, J.N.M.C., Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, (U.P.), India.
| | - Khushtar Anwar Salman
- Department of Biochemistry, J.N.M.C., Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, (U.P.), India
| | - Shagufta Moin
- Department of Biochemistry, J.N.M.C., Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, (U.P.), India
| | - Amin Arif
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, (U.P.), India
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Peng S, Zhou Y, Lu M, Wang Q. Review of Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Depression. Nat Prod Commun 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x221139082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression, a mental illness that is receiving increasing attention, is caused by multiple factors and genes and adversely affects social life and health. Several hypotheses have been proposed to clarify the pathogenesis of depression, and various synthetic antidepressants have been introduced to treat patients with depression. However, these drugs are effective only in a proportion of patients and fail to achieve complete remission. Recently, herbal medicines have received much attention as alternative treatments for depression because of their fewer side effects and lower costs. In this review, we have mainly focused on the herbal medicines that have been proven in clinical studies (especially randomized controlled trials and preclinical studies) to have antidepressant effects; we also describe the potential mechanisms of the antidepressant effects of those herbal medicines; the cellular and animal model of depression; and the development of novel drug delivery systems for herbal antidepressants. Finally, we objectively elaborate on the challenges of using herbal medicines as antidepressants and describe the benefits, adverse effects, and toxicity of these medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Peng
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yalan Zhou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Lu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingzhong Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Alsanie WF, Alamri AS, Abdulaziz O, Salih MM, Alamri A, Asdaq SMB, Alhomrani MH, Alhomrani M. Antidepressant Effect of Crocin in Mice with Chronic Mild Stress. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175462. [PMID: 36080230 PMCID: PMC9457951 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the antidepressant property of crocin (Crocetin digentiobiose ester) using a chronic mild stress (CMS)-induced depression model in experimental mice. The tail suspension test (TST) and the sucrose preference test were used to evaluate the antidepressant effect on albino mice of either sex after three weeks of CMS. The period of immobility in the TST and percentage preference for sucrose solution were recorded. By monitoring brain malondialdehyde (MDA) level, catalase (CAT) activity, and reduced glutathione (GSH) level, the antioxidant potential was assessed. Three dosages of crocin (4.84, 9.69, and 19.38 mg/kg) were evaluated. When compared to controls, animals that received crocin administration during three periods of CMS had considerably shorter immobility times during the TST. Crocin treatment also raised the percentage preference for sucrose solution in a dose-dependent manner, bringing it to parity with the conventional antidepressant, imipramine. Animals that received a high dose of crocin had a much greater spontaneous locomotor activity. Furthermore, a high dose of crocin remarkably lowered plasma corticosterone and nitrite levels brought on by CMS. Additionally, high doses of crocin given during CMS greatly enhanced reduced glutathione levels while considerably reducing the brain’s MDA and catalase activities. In conclusion, high doses of crocin may have an antidepressant effect in an animal model through several mechanisms. However, further studies should be carried out to explore the role of neurotransmitters for their antidepressant property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa F. Alsanie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulhakeem S. Alamri
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Abdulaziz
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Magdi M. Salih
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulwahab Alamri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Dariyah 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.M.B.A.); (M.A.)
| | | | - Majid Alhomrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.M.B.A.); (M.A.)
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Kianmehr M, Mahdizadeh F, Khazdair MR. The effects of Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) and its ingredients on dietary intakes in cardiovascular disease in Iranian population: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Nutr 2022; 9:890532. [PMID: 35990354 PMCID: PMC9386225 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.890532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most common causes of mortality around the world. The aim of this study is to summarize and conclude the clinical evidence regarding the use of Crocus sativus (C. sativus) and its ingredients on cardiovascular risk factors. A systematic search was conducted with PubMed, Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus in the English language from 2015 until September 2021. A fixed-effect or random-effects model were applied to pool standard mean difference (SMD) and its 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Randomized controlled studies that assessed the clinical effects of C. sativus and its ingredients on dietary intake (Energy, Carbohydrate, Protein, and total Fat) in human subjects were included. Seven studies comprising 421 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Pooling of results showed significant effect of saffron on total fat (−0.14; 95% CI: −0.49 to 0.20; I2 = 57.3%) and significant effect of crocin on Energy (0.94; 95% CI: −0.77 to 2.65; I2 = 95.9%), Carbohydrate (0.44; 95% CI: −0.74 to 1.62; I2 = 92.6%), and Protein (−0.04; 95% CI: −0.26 to 0.34; I2 = 0.0%). Present meta-analysis suggests that treatment with crocins is more effective than saffron in energy, carbohydrate, and protein, while saffron is more effective than crocins in fat. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fateme Mahdizadeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Khazdair
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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Shahbaz K, Chang D, Zhou X, Low M, Seto SW, Li CG. Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:825842. [PMID: 35991882 PMCID: PMC9388830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.825842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Shahbaz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Sai Wang Seto
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Reserach Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
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Sadigi B, Yarani R, Mirghafourvand M, Travica N, Yousefi Z, Shakouri SK, Ostadrahimi A, Mobasseri M, Pociot F, Sanaie S, Araj-Khodaei M. The effect of saffron supplementation on glycemic parameters: An overview of systematic reviews. Phytother Res 2022; 36:3444-3458. [PMID: 35778993 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Due to the widespread use of herbal medicine and evidence pointing to the health benefits of saffron supplementation, this review was performed to evaluate the effects of saffron supplementation on glycemic parameters and lipid profiles based on previous reviews. Relevant articles were retrieved from various databases, which included PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane until 2020, with no date restrictions. The quality of the included reviews was assessed using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) checklist. Finally, of 877 obtained articles, eight reviews meeting the inclusion criteria were included for analysis. Among the eight included reviews, seven articles were meta-analyses. In addition, one review had an average quality while seven had a good quality. A narrative description of the included reviews was performed, while a network meta-analysis was not conducted. A brief review of the results was reported according to the weighted mean difference and mean difference. Seven included reviews assessed the effects of saffron or crocin supplementation on glycemic parameters, and six examined these effects on lipid profile parameters. Almost half of the articles reported significant effects of these supplements on glycemic parameters and lipid profiles. Taken together, results suggest that saffron supplementation may improve glycemic and lipid profile parameters; however, further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the clinical efficacy of saffron on glycemic parameters and lipid profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Sadigi
- Student Research Committee, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Persian Medicine, Faculty of Traditional Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Yarani
- Translational Type 1 Diabetes Research, Department of Clinical Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Mojgan Mirghafourvand
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nikolaj Travica
- Food and Mood Centre, IMPACT-The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zahra Yousefi
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyed Kazem Shakouri
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Mobasseri
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of medical sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Flemming Pociot
- Translational Type 1 Diabetes Research, Department of Clinical Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarvin Sanaie
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Araj-Khodaei
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Rasi Marzabadi L, Fazljou SMB, Araj-Khodaei M, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Naseri A, Talebi M. Saffron reduces some inflammation and oxidative stress markers in donepezil-treated mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's Disease patients: A randomized double-blind placebo-control trial. J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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13
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Butnariu M, Quispe C, Herrera-Bravo J, Sharifi-Rad J, Singh L, Aborehab NM, Bouyahya A, Venditti A, Sen S, Acharya K, Bashiry M, Ezzat SM, Setzer WN, Martorell M, Mileski KS, Bagiu IC, Docea AO, Calina D, Cho WC. The Pharmacological Activities of Crocus sativus L.: A Review Based on the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities of its Phytoconstituents. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:8214821. [PMID: 35198096 PMCID: PMC8860555 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8214821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Crocus species are mainly distributed in North Africa, Southern and Central Europe, and Western Asia, used in gardens and parks as ornamental plants, while Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is the only species that is cultivated for edible purpose. The use of saffron is very ancient; besides the use as a spice, saffron has long been known also for its medical and coloring qualities. Due to its distinctive flavor and color, it is used as a spice, which imparts food preservative activity owing to its antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. This updated review discusses the biological properties of Crocus sativus L. and its phytoconstituents, their pharmacological activities, signaling pathways, and molecular targets, therefore highlighting it as a potential herbal medicine. Clinical studies regarding its pharmacologic potential in clinical therapeutics and toxicity studies were also reviewed. For this updated review, a search was performed in the PubMed, Science, and Google Scholar databases using keywords related to Crocus sativus L. and the biological properties of its phytoconstituents. From this search, only the relevant works were selected. The phytochemistry of the most important bioactive compounds in Crocus sativus L. such as crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal and also dozens of other compounds was studied and identified by various physicochemical methods. Isolated compounds and various extracts have proven their pharmacological efficacy at the molecular level and signaling pathways both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, toxicity studies and clinical trials were analyzed. The research results highlighted the various pharmacological potentials such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, antidepressant, hypolipidemic, and antihyperglycemic properties and protector of retinal lesions. Due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, saffron has proven effective as a natural food preservative. Starting from the traditional uses for the treatment of several diseases, the bioactive compounds of Crocus sativus L. have proven their effectiveness in modern pharmacological research. However, pharmacological studies are needed in the future to identify new mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic studies, new pharmaceutical formulations for target transport, and possible interaction with allopathic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Butnariu
- 1Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of Romania” from Timisoara, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Quispe
- 2Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Avda Arturo Prat 2120, Iquique 1110939, Chile
| | - Jesús Herrera-Bravo
- 3Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Chile
- 4Center of Molecular Biology and Pharmacogenetics, Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | | | - Laxman Singh
- 6G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nora M. Aborehab
- 7Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October 12566, Egypt
| | - Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- 8Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Genomic Center of Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Morocco
| | - Alessandro Venditti
- 9Dipartimento di Chimica, “Sapienza” Università di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Surjit Sen
- 10Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
- 11Department of Botany, Fakir Chand College, Diamond Harbour, West Bengal 743331, India
| | - Krishnendu Acharya
- 10Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
| | - Moein Bashiry
- 12Department of Food Science and Technology, Nutrition and Food Sciences Faculty, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Shahira M. Ezzat
- 13Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Ainy Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt
- 14Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October 12566, Egypt
| | - William N. Setzer
- 15Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA
| | - Miquel Martorell
- 16Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
| | - Ksenija S. Mileski
- 17Department of Morphology and Systematic of Plants, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Iulia-Cristina Bagiu
- 18Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara Discipline of Microbiology, Timișoara, Romania
- 19Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- 20Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Daniela Calina
- 21Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - William C. Cho
- 22Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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14
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Investigation on the interaction behavior between safranal and pepsin by spectral and MD simulation studies. J Mol Liq 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.117903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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15
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Saberi-Karimian M, Safarian-Bana H, Mohammadzadeh E, Kazemi T, Mansoori A, Ghazizadeh H, Samadi S, Nikbakht-Jam I, Nosrati M, Ferns GA, Esmaily H, Aghasizadeh M, Ghayour-Mobarhan M. A pilot study of the effects of crocin on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol uptake capacity in patients with metabolic syndrome: A randomized clinical trial. Biofactors 2021; 47:1032-1041. [PMID: 34609029 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A randomized clinical trial high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol uptake capacity (CUC) is reduced in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). We have assessed the effect of crocin supplementation on HDL CUC in patients with MetS. Forty-four subjects with MetS were randomly allocated to one of two groups: one group received placebo and the other group received crocin at a dose of 30 mg (two tablets of 15 mg per day) for 8 weeks. Serum biochemical parameters were measured using an AutoAnalyzer BT3000 (BioTechnica). The modified CUC method is a cell free, simple, and high-throughput assay that used to evaluate HDL CUC of serum samples. The decision tree analysis was undertaken using JMP Pro (SAS) version 13. The mean age of the crocin and placebo groups were 38.97 ± 13.33 and 43.46 ± 12.77 years, respectively. There was a significant increase in serum HDL CUC in the crocin group compared to that of the placebo group in patients with MetS (p-value< 0.05). The decision tree analysis showed that serum HDL functionality was more important variable than HDL-C level in predicting patients with hypertension at baseline (p-value < 0.05). Crocin administration (30 mg for a period of 8 weeks) was found to improve serum HDL CUC in patients with MetS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT2013080514279N1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Saberi-Karimian
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamideh Safarian-Bana
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Mohammadzadeh
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Tooba Kazemi
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
- Razi Clinical Research Development Unit (RCRDU), Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Amin Mansoori
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamideh Ghazizadeh
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sara Samadi
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Irandokht Nikbakht-Jam
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mina Nosrati
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Division of Medical Education, Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, Sussex, UK
| | - Habibollah Esmaily
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Malihe Aghasizadeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Majid Ghayour-Mobarhan
- International UNESCO Center for Health Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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16
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Crocin Possesses Excellent Hepatoprotective Effects Against Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.115165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acetaminophen (APAP) is a common analgesic and antipyretic medicine that can lead to acute liver injury at high doses. Crocin, a Crocus sativus’ ingredient, has potent antioxidant effects. Objectives: This study examined the protective effects of crocin against APAP-induced oxidative stress in mice. Methods: In this study, 56 mice were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 8 per group), including the negative (normal saline, 10 mL/kg) and positive (oral normal saline for five days + a single dose of APAP (300 mg/kg) on day 6th) control groups. The third group (NAC) received normal saline for up to five days, and on the 6th day, immediately after the administration of acetaminophen, received NAC (50 mg/kg). Groups fourth to sixth received respectively 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg of crocin (orally for six days), followed by a single dose of APAP (300 mg/kg) on 6th day. The last group received crocin (50 mg/kg) for six days. Then 24 h after the last injection, the animals were sacrificed, and samples were collected for biochemical and histopathological evaluations. Results: The levels of ALT, AST, and MDA increased, and the activity of CAT, GSH, and GPX decreased in the APAP-treated group compared to the control group. In APAP-treated groups, the administration of crocin decreased the serum levels of AST, ALT, and MDA and increased the activity of CAT, GSH, and GPX. Histopathological evaluations confirmed the above findings. Conclusions: According to our results, it seems that crocin has a protective effect against acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity and can be used as a therapeutic agent to treat APAP-induced hepatotoxicity.
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17
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Hosseini Dastgerdi A, Radahmadi M, Pourshanazari AA. Comparing the effects of crocin at different doses on excitability and long-term potentiation in the CA1 area, as well as the electroencephalogram responses of rats under chronic stress. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:1879-1887. [PMID: 34216349 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00747-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Stress adversely affects the cellular and electrophysiological mechanisms of memory; however, crocin has beneficial effects on brain functions. Nonetheless, the electrophysiological effects of using this active saffron component at different doses are not yet studied in rats under chronic restraint stress. Therefore, this study compared the impact of crocin at different doses on the excitability and long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 area of rats, as well as their electroencephalogram (EEG) responses, hippocampal and frontal cortical glucose levels under chronic restraint stress (an emotional stress model). Forty rats were allocated into five groups of control, sham, restraint stress (6 h/day/21 days), and two stress groups receiving intraperitoneal injections of crocin (30, 60 mg/kg/day). Besides measuring the slope and amplitude of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in the input-output and LTP curves, the EEG waves and hippocampal and frontal cortical glucose levels were assessed in all groups. Chronic restraint stress significantly decreased the fEPSP slope and amplitude in the input-output curves and after LTP induction. Both doses of crocin (60 and particularly 30 mg/kg) significantly improved fEPSP slope and amplitude in the stressed groups. Also, stress and crocin only at a dose of 30 mg/kg altered the EEG waves. Hippocampal and frontal cortical glucose levels displayed no significant differences in the experimental groups. Crocin at doses of 60 mg/kg/day and particularly 30 mg/kg/day reversed the harmful effects of chronic restraint stress on LTP as a cellular memory-related mechanism. However, only the lower dose of crocin affected the electrical brain activity in EEG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Radahmadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Ali Asghar Pourshanazari
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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18
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Khanmohammadi F, Shahrooz R, Ahmadi A, Razi M. Possible protective effects of crocin on destructive side effects of cyclo-phosphamide in mice ovarian tissue: Evaluation of histomorphometrical and biochemical changes. VETERINARY RESEARCH FORUM : AN INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY JOURNAL 2021; 12:217-222. [PMID: 34345389 PMCID: PMC8328250 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2019.103192.2453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
One of the side effects of cyclophosphamide (CP) is low fertility. In this study, we investigated the protective role of crocin (Cr) against CP chemotherapy-induced changes in ovarian tissue. In the current study, we treated 15 female mice aged 6-8 weeks old for 21 days. The mice were distributed into three groups including control received normal saline (0.10 mL; IP), CP or sham-control group (CP once a week, 15.00 mg kg-1; IP) and experimental (CP + Cr) group received CP along with Cr (200 mg kg-1 daily; IP). After completing the procedure, levels of total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and sex hormones in serum as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) in the left ovarian tissue were measured. The right ovaries were used for histological and morphological tests. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by SPSS software using ANOVA and Tukey follow-up studies. Results showed that in the CP group a significant decrease was observed in ovarian follicles, the number of corpus luteum, levels of TAC, SOD and sex hormones; while, there was a significant increase in the number of atretic follicles and mast cells and level of MDA compared to control group. Administration of Cr along with CP caused a significant ameliorative effect on the studied parameters. In conclusion, the Cr could significantly decrease the side effects caused by CP chemotherapy in mice ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abbas Ahmadi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
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19
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Seibel R, Schneider RH, Gottlieb MGV. Effects of Spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2021; 18:347-357. [PMID: 34279199 DOI: 10.2174/1567205018666210716122034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent dementia in the elderly, causing disability, physical, psychological, social, and economic damage to the individual, their families, and caregivers. Studies have shown some spices, such as saffron, rosemary, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that act in inhibiting the aggregation of acetylcholinesterase and amyloid in AD. For this reason, spices have been studied as beneficial sources against neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In this sense, this study aims to present a review of some spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) and their bioactive compounds, most consumed and investigated in the world regarding AD. In this article, scientific evidence is compiled in clinical trials in adults, the elderly, animals, and in vitro, on properties considered neuroprotective, having no or negative effects on neuroprotection of these spices and their bioactive compounds. The importance of this issue is based on the pharmacological treatment for AD that is still not very effective. In addition, the recommendations and prescriptions of these spices are still permeated by questioning and lack of robust evidence of their effects on neurodegeneration. The literature search suggests all spices included in this article have bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions associated with neuroprotection. To date, the amounts of spice ingestion in humans are not uniform, and there is no consensus on its indication and chronic consumption guarantees safety and efficacy in neuroprotection. Therefore, clinical evidence on this topic is necessary to become a formal adjuvant treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Seibel
- School of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre/RS, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo H Schneider
- School of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre/RS, Brazil
| | - Maria G V Gottlieb
- School of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre/RS, Brazil
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20
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Safdari MR, Shakeri F, Mohammadi A, Bibak B, Alesheikh P, Jamialahmadi T, Sathyapalan T, Sahebkar A. Role of Herbal Medicines in the Management of Brain Injury. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1328:287-305. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-73234-9_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Abu-Izneid T, Rauf A, Khalil AA, Olatunde A, Khalid A, Alhumaydhi FA, Aljohani ASM, Sahab Uddin M, Heydari M, Khayrullin M, Shariati MA, Aremu AO, Alafnan A, Rengasamy KRR. Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron ( Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:2683-2706. [PMID: 33327732 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1857682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L., family Iridaceae) is used traditionally for medicinal purpose in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Persian and Unani medicines. The bioactive constituents such as apocarotenoids, monoterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols are widely investigated in experimental and clinical studies for a wide range of therapeutic effects, especially on the nervous system. Some of the active constituents of saffron have high bioavailability and bioaccessibility and ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, learning and memory-enhancing effect of saffron and its bioactive constituents (safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin). Thus, this plant and its active compounds could be a beneficial medicinal food ingredient in the formation of drugs targeting nervous system disorders. This review focuses on phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in saffron. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of saffron against different nervous system disorders has also been discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq Abu-Izneid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain Campus, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Anbar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Olatunde
- Department of Biochemistry, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Ahood Khalid
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mojtaba Heydari
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mars Khayrullin
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Russian Federation.,A. M. Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, North-West University, Mahikeng, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Ahmed Alafnan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kannan R R Rengasamy
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam.,Faculty of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
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22
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Role of Muscarinic Receptors in Hypoalgesia Induced by Crocin in Neuropathic Pain Rats. ScientificWorldJournal 2020; 2020:4046256. [PMID: 33299384 PMCID: PMC7710400 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4046256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Crocin as an important constituent of saffron has antineuropathic pain properties; however, the exact mechanism of this effect is not known. The aim of this study was whether the hypoalgesic effect of crocin can be exerted through muscarinic receptors. Materials and Methods In the present project, 36 male Wistar rats (200 ± 20 g) were used. Animals randomly divided into six groups (sham, neuropathy, neuropathy + crocin, neuropathy + atropine 0.5 mg/kg, neuropathy + atropine 1 mg/kg, and neuropathy + atropine 1 mg/kg + crocin). Neuropathy was induced by the chronic constriction injury (CCI) method on the sciatic nerve. Crocin and atropine was administered intraperitoneally during 14 days following the 14th day after surgery. Pain response was detected every three days, two hours after each injection and 3 days following last injection. Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were detected using the Von Frey filaments and plantar test device, respectively. Results CCI significantly reduced the paw withdrawal response to mechanical and thermal stimulus (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). Crocin therapy significantly reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by CCI (P < 0.05). Atropine pretreatment significantly blocked the hypoalgesic effect of crocin (P < 0.05 in mechanical allodynia and P < 0.01 in thermal hyperalgesia). Fourteen days administration of atropine alone at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg but not 1 mg/kg significantly reduced CCI-induced mechanical allodynia at day 30 after surgery. Conclusion Crocin significantly decreased CCI-induced neuropathic pain. The hypoalgesic effect of crocin was blocked by atropine pretreatment, which indicates an important role for muscarinic receptors in the effect of crocin.
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Saeedi M, Rashidy-Pour A. Association between chronic stress and Alzheimer's disease: Therapeutic effects of Saffron. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 133:110995. [PMID: 33232931 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress and high levels of glucocorticoids produce functional and structural changes in brain and especially in the hippocampus, an important limbic system structure that plays a key role in cognitive functions including learning and memory. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and worsens over time. Indeed, cognitive dysfunction, neuronal atrophy, and synaptic loss are associated with both AD and chronic stress. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have highlighted a possible link between chronic stress, cognitive decline and the development of AD. It is suggested that Tau protein is an essential mediator of the neurodegenerative effects of stress and glucocorticoids towards the development of AD pathology. Recent findings from animal and humans studies demonstrated that saffron and its main constitutive crocin are effective against chronic stress-induced cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress and slowed cognitive decline in AD. The inhibitory actions on acetylcholinesterase activity, aggregation of beta-amyloid protein into amyloid plaques and tau protein into neurofibrillary tangles, and also the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and the promotion of synaptic plasticity effects are among the possible mechanisms to explain the neuroprotective effects of saffron. New evidences demonstrate that saffron and its main component crocin might be a promising target for cognition improvement in AD and stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Saeedi
- Student Research Committee, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Ali Rashidy-Pour
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
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Rezaei F, Saebipour MR, Ghaemi K, Hassanzadeh-Taheri MM, Foadoddini M, Hosseini M. Intra-cerebroventricular Administration of Crocin Attenuates Sleep Deprivation-induced Hyperalgesia in Rats. Basic Clin Neurosci 2020; 11:261-267. [PMID: 32963719 PMCID: PMC7502193 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.11.2.144.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sleep deprivation can cause hyperalgesia and interfere with analgesic treatments. The aim of the present study was to establish an obligatory sleep-abstinence model and also evaluate the effects of Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of crocin on pain perception in Wistar rats. Methods In this experimental study, 35 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=7). The intra-ventricular cannulation was done for all rats before sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation was performed by placing animals on a chamber equipped with an automatic animated conveyor (5 s with an interval of 3 min) for 72 h. Subsequently, the sleep-deprived animals received ICV injection of saline (MOD), Morphine 10 μg (MOR), Crocin 10 ug (Cr10), and Crocin40 μg (Cr40) using a microsyringe. Besides, a non-sleep-deprived group was allocated as a Control Group (NC) and only received an ICV injection of saline. Fifteen minutes after the ICV injections, pain perception was evaluated by the hot plate test (54±0.4°C). Results Compared with the NC group, latency significantly decreased in the MOD group (6.28±0.48 vs. 4.28± 0.48, P<0.0001). In comparison with the MOD group, both morphine (8.42±1.53) and crocin (7.60±1.45 for Cr10 and 8.14±0.89 for Cr40) could significantly increase latency in the sleep-deprived animals (P<0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference between the Cr10 and Cr40 (P=0.42), Cr10, and MOR (P=0.059) and Cr40 with MOR (P=0.86) groups. Conclusion Our results indicated that crocin could attenuate hyperalgesia induced by sleep deprivation in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Rezaei
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Saebipour
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Kazem Ghaemi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Hassanzadeh-Taheri
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohsen Foadoddini
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mehran Hosseini
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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Kermanshahi S, Ghanavati G, Abbasi-Mesrabadi M, Gholami M, Ulloa L, Motaghinejad M, Safari S. Novel Neuroprotective Potential of Crocin in Neurodegenerative Disorders: An Illustrated Mechanistic Review. Neurochem Res 2020; 45:2573-2585. [PMID: 32940861 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-020-03134-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequently oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis that contribute to neuronal cytotoxicity and degeneration. Recent studies reported that crocin, a carotenoid chemical compound common in crocus and gardenia flowers, has protective effects in neurodegenerative disorders due to its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties in the nervous system. This article reviews the new experimental, clinical, and pharmacological studies on the neuroprotective properties of crocin and its potential mechanisms to modulate metabolic oxidative stress and inflammation in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Kermanshahi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazal Ghanavati
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Abbasi-Mesrabadi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Gholami
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Safari
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
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Enhancement of neuroprotection, antioxidant capacity, and water-solubility of crocins by transglucosylation using dextransucrase under high hydrostatic pressure. Enzyme Microb Technol 2020; 140:109630. [PMID: 32912690 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2020.109630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Crocin, one of the major carotenoid pigments of Crocus sativus (saffron), is responsible for antioxidant activity, neuroprotection, and the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. In order to improve the functionality of crocin, α-glucosyl-(1→6)-trans-crocins (C-Gs) were synthesized using sucrose and dextransucrase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides. High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technique was applied to the synthesis process of C-Gs in order to improve its transglucosylation yield. A 100 MPa HHP condition enhanced the production yield of C-Gs by 1.95 times compared to that of 0.1 MPa atmospheric pressure. Novel C-Gs were purified by HPLC, and their chemical structures were determined using NMR analysis. Novel C-Gs increased water solubility 4.6-5.7 times and antioxidant activity 1.5-2.6 times, respectively, compared to crocin, and their neuroprotections (cell viability 92.5-100.4 %) on HT22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cells were significantly higher than that of crocin (cell viability 84.6 %). This advanced neuroprotection of novel C-Gs could be highly associated with their enhanced antioxidant activity. Thus, the enhanced water solubility and functionality of novel C-Gs can induce better clinical efficacy of neuroprotection than trans-crocin.
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Therapeutic potentials of crocin in medication of neurological disorders. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 145:111739. [PMID: 32916219 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurological sicknesses are serious, multifactorial, debilitating disorders that may cause neurodegeneration. Neuroprotection is the protection of the structure and capacity of neurons from affronts emerging from cell injuries instigated by an assortment of specialists or neurodegenerative diseases. Various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy, afflict many people worldwide, with increasing age representing the leading risk factor. Crocin is a natural carotenoid compound which was found to have therapeutic potentials in the management of the neurological disease. In this review, we focused on the restorative capabilities of Crocin as a neuroprotective agent. The general neuroprotective impact and the various conceivable basic components identified with Crocin have been examined. In light of the substantial proof indicating the neuro-pharmacological viability of Crocin to different exploratory standards, it is concluded that Crocin exerts direct antioxidant, antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities by multiple signaling pathways. Besides, Crocin was found to elevate dopamine level in the brain during the experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Thus, this compound has been demonstrated to be a promising option for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, with few adverse effects. It ought to be further considered as a potential contender for neuro-therapeutics, concentrating on the mechanistic and clinical evidence for its effects.
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Dastgerdi HH, Radahmadi M, Reisi P. Comparative study of the protective effects of crocin and exercise on long-term potentiation of CA1 in rats under chronic unpredictable stress. Life Sci 2020; 256:118018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Salycilic Acid Induces Exudation of Crocin and Phenolics in Saffron Suspension-Cultured Cells. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9080949. [PMID: 32731416 PMCID: PMC7463527 DOI: 10.3390/plants9080949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The production of crocin, an uncommon and valuable apocarotenoid with strong biological activity, was obtained in a cell suspension culture of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) established from style-derived calli to obtain an in-vitro system for metabolite production. Salycilic acid (SA) was used at different concentrations to elicit metabolite production, and its effect was analyzed after a 4 days of treatment. HPLC-DAD analysis was used for total crocin quantification while the Folin-Ciocâlteu method was applied for phenolic compounds (PC) content. Interestingly, despite cell growth inhibition, a considerable exudation was observed when the highest SA concentration was applied, leading to a 7-fold enhanced production of crocin and a 4-fold increase of phenolics compared to mock cells. The maximum antioxidant activity of cell extracts was evidenced after SA 0.1 mM elicitation. Water-soluble extracts of saffron cells at concentrations of 1, 0.5, and 0.1 µg mL−1 showed significant inhibitory effects on MDA-MB-231 cancer cell viability. The heterologous vacuolar markers RFP-SYP51, GFPgl133Chi, and AleuRFP, were transiently expressed in protoplasts derived from the saffron cell suspensions, revealing that SA application caused a rapid stress effect, leading to cell death. Cell suspension elicitation with SA on the 7th day of the cell growth cycle and 24 h harvest time was optimized to exploit these cells for the highest increase of metabolite production in saffron cells.
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Li JM, Zhao Y, Sun Y, Kong LD. Potential effect of herbal antidepressants on cognitive deficit: Pharmacological activity and possible molecular mechanism. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 257:112830. [PMID: 32259666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cognitive symptom is a "core" symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD) patients with clear deficit in memory, social and occupational function, and may persist during the remitting phase. Therefore, the remission of cognitive symptom has been considered as one of the main objectives in the treatment of MDD. Herbal antidepressants have been used to treat MDD, and there has been great advances in the understanding of the ability of these herbs to improve cognitive deficit linked to brain injury and various diseases including depression, Alzheimer disease, diabetes and age-related disorders. This systematic review summarizes the evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials of herbal antidepressants with positive effects on cognitive deficit. The potential mechanisms by which herbal antidepressants prevent cognitive deficit are also reviewed. This review will facilitate further research and applications. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted an open-ended, English restricted search of MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science and Scopus for all available articles published or online before 31 December 2019, using terms pertaining to medical herb/phytomedicine/phytochemical/Chinese medicine and depression/major depressive disorder/antidepressant and/or cognitive impairment/cognitive deficit/cognitive dysfunction. RESULTS 7 prescriptions, more than 30 individual herbs and 50 phytochemicals from China, Japan, Korea and India with positive effects on the depressive state and cognitive deficit are reviewed herein. The evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials proves that these herbal antidepressants exhibit positive effects on one or more aspects of cognitive defect including spatial, episodic, aversive, and short- and long-term memory. The action mode of the improvement of cognitive deficit by these herbal antidepressants is mediated mainly through two pathways. One pathway is to promote hippocampal neurogenesis through activating brain derived neurotrophic factor-tropomyosin-related kinase B signaling. The other pathway is to prevent neuronal apoptosis through the inhibition of neuro-inflammation and neuro-oxidation. CONCLUSION These herbal antidepressants, having potential therapy for cognitive deficit, may prevent pathological processes of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, these herbal medicines should provide a treasure trove, which will accelerate the development of new antidepressants that can effectively improve cognitive symptom in MDD. Studies on their molecular mechanisms may provide more potential targets and therapeutic approaches for new drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Mei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Yue Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Yang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Ling-Dong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
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Saeideh S, Yasavoli M, Gholamnezhad Z, Aslani MR, Boskabady MH. The Relaxant Effect of Crocin on Rat Tracheal Smooth Muscle and Its Possible Mechanisms. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2020; 18:1358-1370. [PMID: 32641946 PMCID: PMC6934977 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2019.1100713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Crocin, a component of saffron, showed hypotensive activity which is perhaps due to vascular smooth muscle relaxant effect. The relaxant effects of saffron on tracheal smooth muscle also could be due to its constituent, crocin. In the present study, the relaxant effects of crocin and its possible mechanisms on rat tracheal smooth muscle were investigated. The relaxant effects of three cumulative concentrations of crocin (30, 60, and 120 μM) or theophylline (0.2, 0.4, 0.6 mM) as positive control were examined on pre-contracted tracheal smooth muscle by methacholine or KCl in non-incubated or incubated conditions with different agents including atropine, chlorpheniramine, indomethacin, diltiazem, glibenclamide, and propranolol. In non-incubated tracheal smooth muscle, crocin showed significant relaxant effects on KCl induced muscle contraction (p < 0.001 for two higher concentrations). However, crocin did not show relaxant effect on methacholine induced tissue contraction. In incubated tissues with chlorpheniramine, indomethacin, diltiazem and propranolol, there were no significant differences in the relaxant effects of crocin between non-incubated and incubated tissues. However, the relaxant effects of crocin obtained in incubated tissues with atropine and glibenclamide were significant lower than non-incubated tracheal smooth muscle (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The EC50 value obtained in incubated tissue with propranolol was significantly increased. Theophylline showed significant relaxant effect on both KCl and methacholine induced tissue contraction (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). A relatively potent relaxant effect of crocin on tracheal smooth muscle, lower than that of theophylline was shown. Muscarinic receptor blocking, potassium channels opening and ß2-adrenoreceptors stimulation were also suggested as possible mechanisms of this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Saeideh
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahsa Yasavoli
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Gholamnezhad
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Ardabil Imam Khomeini Educational and Clinical Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Boskabady
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Giannoulaki P, Kotzakioulafi E, Chourdakis M, Hatzitolios A, Didangelos T. Impact of Crocus Sativus L. on Metabolic Profile in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus or Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12051424. [PMID: 32423173 PMCID: PMC7284534 DOI: 10.3390/nu12051424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Experimental studies demonstrated a positive effect of administration of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and its bioactive ingredients on metabolic profile through their antioxidant capacity. Purpose: To determine if the use of saffron in humans is beneficial to patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) or metabolic syndrome (MS). Methods: This systematic review includes 14 randomized control trials that investigated the impact of saffron administration and its bioactive ingredient crocin on the metabolic profile of patients with DM, MS, prediabetes, and coronary artery disease. We documented the following clinical outcomes: fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure. Results: Eight studies examined the efficacy of saffron in patients with DM, four with the metabolic syndrome, one with prediabetes and one with coronary artery disease. A favorable effect on FBG was observed. The results regarding blood lipids and blood pressure were inconclusive in the current review. Conclusions: According to the available limited evidence, saffron may have a favorable effect on FBG. Many of the studies in the reviewed literature are of poor quality, and more research is needed in this direction to confirm and establish the above findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parthena Giannoulaki
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University General Hospital of Thessaloniki AHEPA, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Evangelia Kotzakioulafi
- Diabetes Center, 1st Propeudetic Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (A.H.)
| | - Michail Chourdakis
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Apostolos Hatzitolios
- Diabetes Center, 1st Propeudetic Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (A.H.)
| | - Triantafyllos Didangelos
- Diabetes Center, 1st Propeudetic Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (A.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-694-486-3803
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Omidi G, Rezvani-Kamran A, Ganji A, Komaki S, Etaee F, Asadbegi M, Komaki A. Effects of Hypericum scabrum extract on dentate gyrus synaptic plasticity in high fat diet-fed rats. J Physiol Sci 2020; 70:19. [PMID: 32209056 PMCID: PMC7093352 DOI: 10.1186/s12576-020-00747-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
High-fat diet (HFD) can induce deficits in neural function, oxidative stress, and decrease hippocampal neurogenesis. Hypericum (H.) scabrum extract (Ext) contains compounds that could treat neurological disorders. This study aimed to examine the neuroprotective impacts of the H. scabrum Ext on hippocampal synaptic plasticity in rats that were fed HFD. Fifty-four male Wistar rats (220 ± 10 g) were randomly arranged in six groups: (1) HFD group; (2) HFD + Ext300 group; (3) HFD + Ext100 group; (4) Control group; (5) Ext 300 mg/kg group; (6) Ext 100 mg/kg group. These protocols were administrated for 3 months. After this stage, a stimulating electrode was implanted in the perforant pathway (PP), and a bipolar recording electrode was embedded into the dentate gyrus (DG). Long-term potentiation (LTP) was provoked by high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of the PP. Field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP) and population spikes (PS) were recorded at 5, 30, and 60 min after HFS. The HFD group exhibited a large and significant decrease in their PS amplitude and EPSP slope as compared to the control and extract groups. In reverse, H. scabrum administration in the HFD + Ext rats reversed the effect of HFD on the PS amplitude and EPSP slope. The results of the study support that H. scabrum Ext can inhibit diminished synaptic plasticity caused by the HFD. These effects are probably due to the extreme antioxidant impacts of the Ext and its capability to scavenge free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Omidi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Arezoo Rezvani-Kamran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ahmad Ganji
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Somayeh Komaki
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Farshid Etaee
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.,Rahe Sabz Addiction Rehabilitation Clinic, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Asadbegi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Alireza Komaki
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran. .,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Fahmideh Street, 65178/518, Hamadan, Iran.
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Pandey DK, Nandy S, Mukherjee A, Dey A. Advances in bioactive compounds from Crocus sativus (saffron): Structure, bioactivity and biotechnology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-817907-9.00010-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
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35
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Wang J, Ke Y, Shu T. Crocin has pharmacological effects against the pathological behavior of colon cancer cells by interacting with the STAT3 signaling pathway. Exp Ther Med 2019; 19:1297-1303. [PMID: 32010302 PMCID: PMC6966197 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate changes in proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation and chemokine release of colon cancer cells after treatment with crocin, as well as to investigate the signaling pathway that is regulated by crocin. The inhibition rates of different doses of crocin on the proliferation of HCT116 cells were measured by MTT assay. The IC50 was calculated from the inhibition rates at 48 h. Proliferation curves of HCT116 cells were plotted after treatment with 271.18 µM (high-dose group) or 135.6 µM (low-dose group) crocin. Flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342/propidium iodide double staining were used for detecting apoptosis. ELISA was used to measure the levels of macrophage inflammatory protein 2, interleukin (IL)-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in the supernatant from cultured HCT116 cells following both high- and low-dose crocin treatment. Phosphorylated (P)-STAT3/STAT3 in HCT116 cells were measured by western blotting. Crocin inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 cells in a dose-dependent manner and the high-dose treatment with crocin resulted in a lower rate of proliferation. Additionally, crocin increased the apoptosis of HCT116 cells and the high-dose treatment with crocin led to a higher level of apoptosis. Notably, crocin decreased the secretion of chemokines and inflammatory factors from HCT116 cells and the high-dose treatment with crocin caused the greatest reduction in secretion of the factors. Crocin reduced the ratio of P-STAT3/STAT3, and thereby reduced the release of cytokines. The present study demonstrated that crocin may have pharmacological effects against the pathological behavior of colon cancer cells, and its mechanism of action may be related to the STAT3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121000, P.R. China
| | - Yupei Ke
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121000, P.R. China
| | - Tao Shu
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121000, P.R. China
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Xu S, Ge X, Li S, Guo X, Dai D, Yang T. Discrimination of Different Parts of Saffron by Metabolomic-Based Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with High-Definition Mass Spectrometry. Chem Biodivers 2019; 16:e1900363. [PMID: 31385642 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201900363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the metabolite profiling of three different parts of Crocus sativus L. was measured by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTof-MS/MS). Multivariate statistical analysis was used to distinguish among the samples from different parts. A total of 54 compounds were identified in tepals, stigmas and stamens by UPLC-QTof-MS/MS. The results stated that chemical characteristics of saffron were obviously diverse in terms of the parts of flower. Through analysis, coniferin and crocin-2 were special components in stigmas when compared to tepals and stamens. The content of flavonoids was high in tepals when compared with the stigmas. The tepal of saffron may processed as a source of flavonoids in the future. The research provided the basis for the theory that only the stigma can be used as medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuya Xu
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China.,College of Animal Medicine, Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy, Zhengzhou, 450046, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojin Ge
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China
| | - Shimin Li
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyang Guo
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China
| | - Dandan Dai
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China
| | - Tiegang Yang
- Economic Crop Research Institute, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Henan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Economic Crop Seedling, Zhengzhou, 450008, P. R. China
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In-vitro and in-silico investigation of protective mechanisms of crocin against E46K α-synuclein amyloid formation. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4279-4292. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Chalatsa I, Arvanitis DA, Koulakiotis NS, Giagini A, Skaltsounis AL, Papadopoulou-Daifoti Z, Tsarbopoulos A, Sanoudou D. The Crocus sativus Compounds trans-Crocin 4 and trans-Crocetin Modulate the Amyloidogenic Pathway and Tau Misprocessing in Alzheimer Disease Neuronal Cell Culture Models. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:249. [PMID: 30971876 PMCID: PMC6443833 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. natural compounds have been extensively used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Recent research evidence is now emerging in support of its therapeutic potential for different pathologies including neurodegenerative diseases. Herein, the C. sativus L. natural compounds trans-crocin 4 and trans-crocetin were selected for in depth molecular characterization of their potentially protective effects against Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), utilizing two AD neuronal cell culture models (SH-SY5Y overexpressing APP and PC12 expressing hyperphosphorylated tau). Biologically relevant concentrations, ranging from 0.1 μM to 1 mM, applied for 24 h or 72 h, were well tolerated by differentiated wild type SH-SY5Y and PC12 cells. When tested on neuronally differentiated SH-SY5Y-APP both trans-crocin 4 and trans-crocetin had significant effects against amyloidogenic pathways. Trans-crocin 4 significantly decreased of β-secretase, a key enzyme of the amyloidogenic pathway, and APP-C99, while it decreased γ-secretases that generate toxic beta-amyloid peptides. Similarly, trans-crocetin treatment led to a reduction in β- and γ-secretases, as well as to accumulation of cellular AβPP. When tested on the neuronally differentiated PC12-htau cells, both compounds proved effective in suppressing the active forms of GSK3β and ERK1/2 kinases, as well as significantly reducing total tau and tau phosphorylation. Collectively, our data demonstrate a potent effect of trans-crocin 4 and trans-crocetin in suppressing key molecular pathways of AD pathogenesis, rendering them a promising tool in the prevention and potentially the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Chalatsa
- Clinical Genomics and Pharmacogenomics Unit, 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Arvanitis
- Molecular Biology Division, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Athina Giagini
- Clinical Genomics and Pharmacogenomics Unit, 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios Leandros Skaltsounis
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Product Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Zeta Papadopoulou-Daifoti
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anthony Tsarbopoulos
- GAIA Research Center, Bioanalytical Department, The Goulandris Natural History Museum, Athens, Greece.,Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Despina Sanoudou
- Clinical Genomics and Pharmacogenomics Unit, 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Molecular Biology Division, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Center for New Biotechnologies and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Xi L, Qian Z. Pharmacological Properties of Crocetin and Crocin (Digentiobiosyl Ester of Crocetin) from Saffron. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x0600100112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional plant foods and medicinal herbs provide a wide variety of natural products for new drug research and development. Crocetin and crocin (digentiobiosyl ester of crocetin) are the major bioactive ingredients of saffron which is used as a costly spice, food colorant and traditional herbal medicine. These particular carotenoids have gained much research attention for their extensive pharmacological activities. Following oral administration, crocetin is rapidly absorbed into the blood circulation and widely distributed into the extra-vascular tissues of the body, whereas the water-soluble compound crocin is hardly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Crocetin and crocin have been shown to be effective in the prevention and/or treatment of several diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia, hemorrhagic shock, cancer and cerebral injury. The compounds exert their biological and pharmacological effects largely through their strong antioxidant activity. However, there seems to be substantial variation in the effectiveness of both phytochemicals when used in different diseases. The aim of this review is to discuss the pharmacokinetic and medicinal properties of crocetin and crocin based on related literature and our research results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xi
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, P.O. Box 46, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Zhiyu Qian
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, P.O. Box 46, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
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Mohammadzadeh L, Abnous K, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Crocin-protected malathion-induced spatial memory deficits by inhibiting TAU protein hyperphosphorylation and antiapoptotic effects. Nutr Neurosci 2019; 23:221-236. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2018.1492772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Motaghinejad M, Safari S, Feizipour S, Sadr S. Crocin may be useful to prevent or treatment of alcohol induced neurodegeneration and neurobehavioral sequels via modulation of CREB/BDNF and Akt/GSK signaling pathway. Med Hypotheses 2019; 124:21-25. [PMID: 30798909 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The neurodegeneration and neurobehavioral consequences of alcohol are serious and offering therapeutic approaches for management of these types of neurodegeneration is one of the main concerns of researchers in this manner. Alcohol-stimulated oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation, with modulation of involved signaling pathway in neuroprotection, was reported previously. Neuroprotective strategy for management of alcohol induced neurodegeneration through a new generation neuroprotective agent and based on modulation of some neuroprotective signaling pathway such as CREB/BDNF and Akt/GSK has always been superior to any other therapeutic interventions. Therefore, the introduction and development of potential new neuroprotective properties and clarification of their effects on major cell signaling such as CREB/BDNF and Akt/GSK is necessitated. During recent years, using new neuroprotective compounds with therapeutic probability for treatment of alcohol induced neuro-biochemical and neuro-behavioral malicious effects have been amazingly increased. Many previous studies have reported the neuroprotective roles of crocin (major active component of saffron) in multiple neurodegenerative events and diseases in animal model. But the role of crocin neuroprotective effects against alcohol induced neurodegeneration and neurobehavioral sequels and also role of CREB/BDNF and Akt/GSK in this manner remain unclear. Hence we hypothesized that by using crocin in alcohol dependent subject it would provide neuroprotection against alcohol induced neurodegeneration and neurobehavioral and probably can manage sequels of alcohol abuses. Also we hypothesized that crocin, via intonation of CREB/BDNF and Akt/GSK signaling pathway, can inhibit alcohol induced neurodegeneration. In this article, we tried to discuss our hypothesis regarding the possible role of crocin, as a potent neuroprotective agent, and also role of Akt/GSK and CREB/BDNF signaling pathway in treatment of alcohol induced neurodegeneration and neurobehavioral through its anti-inflammatory,anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative stress and cognitive enhancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Motaghinejad
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Iran Psychiatric Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Safari
- Razi Drug Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Feizipour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Sadr
- Research and Development Department, Parsian-Exir-Aria pharmaceutical Company, Tehran, Iran
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Panahi Y, Rajaee SM, Johnston TP, Sahebkar A. Neuroprotective effects of antioxidants in the management of neurodegenerative disorders: A literature review. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:2742-2748. [PMID: 29219206 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is proven that oxidative stress has a pivotal role in the process of neurodegeneration. The use of antioxidants is an attractive method to prevent the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. We searched major databases (PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar) using the keywords of neurodegeneration, oxidative stress, and antioxidant for both review and original studies, which have reported the various beneficial effects of antioxidants. About 70 studies were identified for this review. Among various antioxidants, nine antioxidants with the most applications in research investigations were selected and the major findings concerning their protective effects were reviewed. It is concluded that antioxidants can modify and readjust the oxidative stress in the biological milieu, elicit neuroprotective effects, and positively impact the management of neurodegenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunes Panahi
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mahdi Rajaee
- Gastrointestinal Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Thomas P Johnston
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Yaribeygi H, Zare V, Butler AE, Barreto GE, Sahebkar A. Antidiabetic potential of saffron and its active constituents. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:8610-8617. [PMID: 30515777 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is growing rapidly worldwide. This metabolic disorder affects many physiological pathways and is a key underlying cause of a multitude of debilitating complications. There is, therefore, a critical need for effective diabetes management. Although many synthetic therapeutic glucose-lowering agents have been developed to control glucose homeostasis, they may have unfavorable side effects or limited efficacy. Herbal-based hypoglycemic agents present an adjunct treatment option to mitigate insulin resistance, improve glycemic control and reduce the required dose of standard antidiabetic medications. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), whilst widely used as a food additive, is a natural product with insulin-sensitizing and hypoglycemic effects. Saffron contains several bioactive β carotenes, which exert their pharmacological effects in various tissues without any obvious side effects. In this study, we discuss how saffron and its major components exert their hypoglycemic effects by induction of insulin sensitivity, improving insulin signaling and preventing β-cell failure, all mechanisms combining to achieve better glycemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habib Yaribeygi
- Chronic Kidney Disease Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Zare
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alexandra E Butler
- Diabetes Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Doha, Qatar
| | - George E Barreto
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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45
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Steiner GZ, Bensoussan A, Liu J, Hohenberg MI, Chang DH. Study protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week pilot phase II trial of Sailuotong (SLT) for cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Trials 2018; 19:522. [PMID: 30253809 PMCID: PMC6156958 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2912-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a syndrome characterised by a decline in cognition but relatively intact activities of daily living. People with MCI have an increased risk of developing dementia, and MCI is often referred to as a transitional stage between healthy ageing and dementia. Currently, there are no pharmaceutical therapies approved by the US Federal Drug Administration for MCI. Randomised controlled trials on the two major classes of anti-dementia pharmaceuticals, cholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate receptor antagonists, have produced poor results in MCI cohorts. There is a need to test and evaluate new and promising treatments for MCI that target multiple aspects of the syndrome’s multi-faceted pathophysiology. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of 12 weeks of treatment with a standardised herbal formula, Sailuotong (SLT), compared to placebo, on cognition in older adults with MCI. Secondary aims are to assess SLT’s mechanisms of action via electroencephalography (EEG), autonomic function, brain blood flow, and inflammation, as well as its safety in this cohort. Methods/design The target cohort for this trial is community-dwelling older adults over the age of 60 years who meet the National Institute of Aging-Alzheimer’s Association working group core clinical criteria for MCI due to Alzheimer’s disease. Eighty participants will be recruited and randomly allocated via a permuted block strategy at a 1:1 ratio to either the treatment or placebo group. The co-primary cognitive outcome measures are Logical Memory Story A delayed recall (episodic memory), Letter Number Sequencing (perceptual processing speed), and both the Trail Making Test and Rey Complex Figure Test (executive function). Secondary outcome measures are EEG activity, autonomic function (via electrocardiogram, skin conductance, and peripheral pulse pressure), brain blood flow (via common carotid artery ultrasound), and serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines. Analyses will be performed blind to group allocation. Discussion This study is a 12-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Primary and secondary outcome measures will be compared between treatment and placebo groups at baseline and endpoint. Data from this pilot study will inform a larger, more highly powered clinical trial if the findings are positive. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR), ACTRN12617000371392 Registered on 10 March 2017. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2912-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Z Steiner
- NICM Health Research Institute and Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
| | - Alan Bensoussan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Jianxun Liu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.,Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mark I Hohenberg
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Dennis H Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
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Khorasanchi Z, Shafiee M, Kermanshahi F, Khazaei M, Ryzhikov M, Parizadeh MR, Kermanshahi B, Ferns GA, Avan A, Hassanian SM. Crocus sativus a natural food coloring and flavoring has potent anti-tumor properties. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 43:21-27. [PMID: 29747750 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., is a highly valued agricultural product that is used mainly as a food coloring and flavoring agent. Three main secondary metabolites of Crocus sativus including crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are responsible for the color, the bitter taste and for the odor and aroma, respectively. As a component of traditional medicine, saffron has been utilized as a medicinal herb for treating various ailments including cramps, asthma, liver disease, menstruation disorders, pain, and in the pathogenesis of cancer. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE To summarize the recent published data on the chemo-preventive properties of Crocus sativus in cancer treatment. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a non-systematic review of the literature. METHODS A search of English-language literature was performed using Scopus, EMBASE and PubMed. We applied no restriction in time. Articles were searched using the keywords "Lung", "breast", "skin", "prostate", "leukemia", "cancer", "neoplasm", "tumor", "malignancy", "saffron", "crocus sativus", "crocin", "crocetin", "picrocrocin", and "safranal". RESULTS Saffron has been reported to exert anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer including lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, skin cancer and prostate cancer. This appears to be via various mechanisms including: the induction of apoptosis, arresting cell cycle progression, suppressing expression of matrix metalloproteinase, modulatory effects on some phase II detoxifying enzymes and decreasing expression of inflammatory molecules are potential mechanisms of saffron-induced anticancer effects. CONCLUSION Saffron possesses potent anti-tumor properties and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Khorasanchi
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farnoush Kermanshahi
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, St. Louis University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mohammad Reza Parizadeh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Akbari G, Ali Mard S, Veisi A. A comprehensive review on regulatory effects of crocin on ischemia/reperfusion injury in multiple organs. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 99:664-670. [PMID: 29710463 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.01.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury affects o2-dependent organs including liver, kidneys, heart, brain, and intestine. I/R injury is described as the cellular injury in an organ caused by ischemia and then further aggravated during the reperfusion due to intracellular alterations. It is a process that happens in clinical settings such as organ transplantation, reperfusion after thrombolytic therapy, and coronary angioplasty. Crocus sativus L. known as saffron used in folk medicine for its beneficial effects. It contains multiple bioactive compounds including the crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Crocin, a water-soluble carotenoid has antitumor, radical scavenging, anti hyperlipidemia and memory improving effects. Moreover, crocin has antioxidant, and protective effects on I/R models in rats at various organs such as heart, brain, kidney, stomach, liver, and kidney as described in detail in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghaidafeh Akbari
- Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran; Research Center for Infectious Diseases of Digestive System [Alimentary Tract Research Center], Physiology Research Center (PRC), Dept. of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Seyyed Ali Mard
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases of Digestive System [Alimentary Tract Research Center], Physiology Research Center (PRC), Dept. of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali Veisi
- Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
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Hadipour M, Kaka G, Bahrami F, Meftahi GH, Pirzad Jahromi G, Mohammadi A, Sahraei H. Crocin improved amyloid beta induced long-term potentiation and memory deficits in the hippocampal CA1 neurons in freely moving rats. Synapse 2018; 72:e22026. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.22026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gholamreza Kaka
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Farideh Bahrami
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine; Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | | | - Gila Pirzad Jahromi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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Shafiee M, Arekhi S, Omranzadeh A, Sahebkar A. Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action. J Affect Disord 2018; 227:330-337. [PMID: 29136602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are two common mental health problems with high economic and social costs. Currently, a number of treatments are available for patients with depression and anxiety disorders such as psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy and antidepressant drugs. Due to safety concerns, adverse effects, limited efficacy and low tolerability associated with many antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications, identification of novel agents with less toxicity and more favorable outcome is warranted. METHODS The current article provides a non-systematic review of the available in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidence on the efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action of saffron and its active ingredients in the treatment of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders. RESULTS Several interesting data have been reported about the antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties of saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., in several preclinical and clinical studies. In particular, a number of clinical trials demonstrated that saffron and its active constituents possess antidepressant properties similar to those of current antidepressant medications such as fluoxetine, imipramine and citalopram, but with fewer reported side effects. CONCLUSION Saffron may exert antidepressant effects and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Soheil Arekhi
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Evidence Based Medicine Research Group, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Omranzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Evidence Based Medicine Research Group, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Bukhari SI, Manzoor M, Dhar MK. A comprehensive review of the pharmacological potential of Crocus sativus and its bioactive apocarotenoids. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:733-745. [PMID: 29306211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.12.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus is an herbaceous plant that belongs to family Iridaceae. It is commonly known as saffron and has been used for medicinal purposes since many centuries in India and other parts of the world. Saffron of commercial importance comprises of dried stigmas of the plant and is rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and carotenoids. Carotenoids represent the main components of saffron and their cleavage results in the formation of apocarotenoids such as crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Studies conducted during the past two decades have revealed the immense therapeutic potential of saffron. Most of the therapeutic properties are due to the presence of unique apocarotenoids having strong free radical scavenging activity. The mode of action of these apocarotenoids could be: modulatory effects on detoxifying enzymes involved in combating oxidative stress, decreasing telomerase activity, increased the proapoptotic effect, inhibition of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, and by a strong binding capacity of crocetin with tRNA. The present review focuses on the therapeutic role of saffron and its bio oxidative cleavage products and also highlights the possible molecular mechanism of action. The findings reported in this review describes the wide range of applications of saffron and attributes its free radical scavenging nature the main property which makes this spice a potent chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahreen Manzoor
- School of Biotechnology, University of Jammu, Jammu, 180006, India
| | - M K Dhar
- School of Biotechnology, University of Jammu, Jammu, 180006, India
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