Daily consumption of a mangosteen-based drink improves in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Photophysical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of α-Mangostin-Loaded HDL Mimetic Nano-Complex in LN-229 Glioblastoma Spheroid Model

Cytotoxic activity has been reported for the xanthone α-mangostin (AMN) against Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), an aggressive malignant brain cancer with a poor prognosis. Recognizing that AMN's high degree of hydrophobicity is likely to limit its systemic administration, we formulated AMN using reconstituted high-density lipoprotein (rHDL) nanoparticles. The photophysical characteristics of the formulation, including fluorescence lifetime and steady-state anisotropy, indicated that AMN was successfully incorporated into the rHDL nanoparticles. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the fluorescent characteristics of AMN with an HDL-based drug carrier. Cytotoxicity studies in a 2D culture and 3D spheroid model of LN-229 GBM cells and normal human astrocytes showed an enhanced therapeutic index with the rHDL-AMN formulation compared to the unincorporated AMN and Temozolomide, a standard GBM chemotherapy agent. Furthermore, treatment with the rHDL-AMN facilitated a dose-dependent upregulation of autophagy and reactive oxygen species generation to a greater extent in LN-229 cells compared to astrocytes, indicating the reduced off-target toxicity of this novel formulation. These studies indicate the potential therapeutic benefits to GBM patients via selective targeting using the rHDL-AMN formulation.

Efficacy of a dietary supplement derived from five edible plants on telomere length in Thai adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Mylife/Mylife100® is a dietary supplement consisting of black sesame seed, guava fruit, mangosteen aril, pennywort leaves, and soy protein. These edible plants contain multiple high-potential bioactive compounds exerting various vital biological functions including antioxidants which contribute to delaying the rate of telomere shortening. Telomere length is associated with cellular aging and age-related diseases. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Mylife/Mylife100® on telomere length through a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. The trial assessed the alteration of leukocyte telomere length after 32 adults aged 50-65 years received either Mylife/Mylife100® or placebo (five capsules/day) for 8-week supplementation. The results demonstrated a significant increase in mean telomere length from baseline (6313 bp) to the 8-week supplementation period (6655 bp; p < 0.05) in the group receiving the product, whereas no significant change was observed in the placebo group. Additionally, the product group exhibited a significant improvement in plasma total antioxidant capacity levels compared to the placebo group (mean change, +35 vs -38; p = 0.006). This study also showed a significant correlation between telomere length and % CD4 + T cells (r = +0.325; p = 0.00003), % CD8 + T cells (r = +0.156; p = 0.048), and visceral fat (r = - 0.349; p = 0.000006). The findings suggest that consuming this dietary supplement (Mylife/Mylife100®) for 8 weeks has a positive effect on cellular aging by lengthening telomeres possible through their antioxidant capacities. Oxidative stress and cellular aging are underlying predisease mechanisms that might be alleviated by supplementing with this product.

Influence of Different Drying Methods on Anthocyanins Composition and Antioxidant Activities of Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) Pericarps and LC-MS Analysis of the Active Extract

Mangosteen pericarps (MP) often end up as agricultural waste despite being rich in powerful natural antioxidants such as anthocyanins and xanthones. This study compared the effect of different drying processes and times on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities of MP. Fresh MP were subjected to 36 and 48 h of freeze-drying (-44 ± 1 °C) and oven-drying (45 ± 1 °C), and 30 and 40 h of sun-drying (31 ± 3 °C). The samples were analyzed for anthocyanins composition, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activities, and color characteristics. Analysis of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) with electrospray ionization identified two anthocyanins in MP: cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. Overall, the drying process, time, and their interactions significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities, and color in MP extracts. Both freeze-drying after 36 h (FD36) and 48 h (FD48) possessed significantly (p < 0.05) higher total anthocyanins (2.1-2.2 mg/g) than other samples. However, FD36 was associated with significantly (p < 0.05) higher TPC (~94.05 mg GAE/g), TFC (~621.00 mg CE/g), and reducing power (~1154.50 μmol TE/g) compared to FD48. Moreover, FD36 is more efficient for industrial applications due to less time and energy consumption. Subsequently, obtained dried MP extracts could be further utilized as an alternative to synthetic food colorants.

The Phytochemical α-Mangostin Inhibits Cervical Cancer Cell Proliferation and Tumor Growth by Downregulating E6/E7-HPV Oncogenes and KCNH1 Gene Expression

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. The main factor associated with the onset and progression of this neoplasia is the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV-oncogenes E6 and E7 are critical drivers of cellular transformation, promoting the expression of oncogenes such as KCNH1. The phytochemical α-mangostin (AM) is a potent antineoplastic and antiviral compound. However, its effects on HPV oncogenes and KCNH1 gene expression remain unknown. This study evaluated the effects of AM on cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution and gene expression, including its effects on tumor growth in xenografted mice. AM inhibited cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, being the most sensitive cell lines those with the highest number of HPV16 copies. In addition, AM promoted G1-cell cycle arrest in CaSki cells, while led to cell death in SiHa and HeLa cells. Of interest was the finding of an AM-dependent decreased gene expression of E6, E7 and KCNH1 both in vitro and in vivo, as well as the modulation of cytokine expression, Ki-67, and tumor growth inhibition. On these bases, we suggest that AM represents a good option as an adjuvant for the treatment and prevention of cervical cancer.

Mangosteen for malignancy prevention and intervention: Current evidence, molecular mechanisms, and future perspectives

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.), also known as the "queen of fruits", is a tropical fruit of the Clusiacea family. While native to Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, and the Philippines, the fruit has gained popularity in the United States due to its health-promoting attributes. In traditional medicine, mangosteen has been used to treat a variety of illnesses, ranging from dysentery to wound healing. Mangosteen has been shown to exhibit numerous biological and pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. Disease-preventative and therapeutic properties of mangosteen have been ascribed to secondary metabolites called xanthones, present in several parts of the tree, including the pericarp, fruit rind, peel, stem bark, root bark, and leaf. Of the 68 mangosteen xanthones identified so far, the most widely-studied are α-mangostin and γ-mangostin. Emerging studies have found that mangosteen constituents and phytochemicals exert encouraging antineoplastic effects against a myriad of human malignancies. While there are a growing number of individual research papers on the anticancer properties of mangosteen, a complete and critical evaluation of published experimental findings has not been accomplished. Accordingly, the objective of this work is to present an in-depth analysis of the cancer preventive and anticancer potential of mangosteen constituents, with a special emphasis on the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms. Moreover, the bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and safety of mangosteen-derived agents together with current challenges and future research avenues are also discussed.

Botanical characteristics, chemical components, biological activity, and potential applications of mangosteen

Garcinia mangostana L. (Mangosteen), a functional food, belongs to the Garcinaceae family and has various pharmacological effects, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects. Mangosteen has abundant chemical constituents with powerful pharmacological effects. After searching scientific literature databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Research Gate, Web of Science, VIP, Wanfang, and CNKI, we summarized the traditional applications, botanical features, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of mangosteen. Further, we revealed the mechanism by which it improves health and treats disease. These findings provide a theoretical basis for mangosteen's future clinical use and will aid doctors and researchers who investigate the biological activity and functions of food.

Alpha-mangostin attenuates the apoptotic pathway of abamectin in the fetal rats' brain by targeting pro-oxidant stimulus, catecholaminergic neurotransmitters, and transcriptional regulation of reelin and nestin

Abamectin, an avermectin member, can induce significant neurodegeneration symptoms in non-target organisms. However, its neurodevelopmental influences in mammals are unclear. Here, we focus on the antiapoptotic action of alpha-mangostin against the developmental neurotoxicity of abamectin with the possible involvement of reelin and nestin mRNA gene expression. Thirty-two pregnant rats were allocated to four groups (8 rats/group); control, alpha-mangostin (20 mg/kg/d), abamectin (0.5 mg/kg), and co-treated group (alpha-mangostin + abamectin). The animals have gavaged their doses during the gestation period. The fetotoxicity and many signs of growth retardation were observed in the abamectin-intoxicated rats. In comparison with the control group, abamectin prompted a significant elevation (p < 0.05) in the levels of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, along with many symptoms of histopathological changes in the fetal cerebral cortex. However, the glutathione, dopamine, and serotonin concentrations together with the activities of glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were markedly decreased (p < 0.05) in the abamectin group. Moreover, abamectin remarkably upregulated (p < 0.05) the brain mRNA gene expression of reelin, nestin, and caspase-9 as well as the immunoreactivity of Bax and caspase-3 proteins in the cerebral cortex. It should be noted that alpha-mangostin mitigated the developmental neurotoxicity of abamectin to the normal range by recovering the levels of oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers, catecholamines; and apoptosis-related proteins with the involvement of reelin and nestin genes regulation. Those records revealed that the transcription regulation of reelin and nestin could be involved in the neuroprotective efficacy of alpha-mangostin, especially avermectin's developmental neurotoxicity.

Effect of Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation on Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Markers: A Pilot Study

Tribulus terrestris L. contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its effects on exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses are unclear. The aim of this study was to examine whether Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation can attenuate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses to acute aerobic exercise and improve DOMS. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design study, thirteen healthy men received either a daily supplement of Tribulus terrestris L. or a placebo for 4 weeks (2-week wash-out period between trials). Before and after the supplementation periods, participants performed an exercise test to exhaustion (75% VO2max). DOMS, thigh girth, and knee joint range of motion (KJRM) were assessed before and after the exercise (2, 24, and 48 h). Blood samples were analyzed for reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione, GSH/GSSG ratio, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, creatine kinase activity, white blood cell count, and TBARS. Acute exercise to exhaustion induced inflammatory responses and changed the blood redox status in both Tribulus and Placebo groups (p < 0.050). Tribulus terrestris L. improved GSH fall (p = 0.005), GSSG rise (p = 0.001) and maintained a higher level of GSH/GSSG ratio at the 2 h point (p = 0.034). TBARS were lowered, protein carbonyls, creatine kinase activity, and white blood cell count elevation diminished significantly (p < 0.050). Tribulus terrestris L. administration did not affect DOMS, thigh girth, or KJRM (p > 0.050). 4-weeks of Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation effectively attenuates oxidative stress responses but cannot improve DOMS.

The metabolic and molecular mechanisms of α‑mangostin in cardiometabolic disorders (Review)

α-mangostin is a xanthone predominantly encountered in Garcinia mangostana. Extensive research has been carried out concerning the effects of this compound on various diseases, including obesity, cancer and metabolic disorders. The present review suggests that α-mangostin exerts promising anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on various pathways in cardiometabolic diseases. The anti-obesity effects of α-mangostin include the reduction of body weight and adipose tissue size, the increase in fatty acid oxidation, the activation of hepatic AMP-activated protein kinase and Sirtuin-1, and the reduction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression. Hepatoprotective effects have been revealed, due to reduced fibrosis through transforming growth factor-β 1 pathways, reduced apoptosis and steatosis through reduced sterol regulatory-element binding proteins expression. The antidiabetic effects include decreased fasting blood glucose levels, improved insulin sensitivity and the increased expression of GLUT transporters in various tissues. Cardioprotection is exhibited through the restoration of cardiac functions and structure, improved mitochondrial functions, the promotion of M2 macrophage populations, reduced endothelial and cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibrosis, and reduced acid sphingomyelinase activity and ceramide depositions. The antioxidant effects of α-mangostin are mainly related to the modulation of antioxidant enzymes, the reduction of oxidative stress markers, the reduction of oxidative damage through a reduction in Sirtuin 3 expression mediated by phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α signaling pathways, and to the increase in Nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 expression levels. The anti-inflammatory effects of α-mangostin include its modulation of nuclear factor-κB related pathways, the suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, increased macrophage polarization to M2, reduced inflammasome occurrence, increased Sirtuin 1 and 3 expression, the reduced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, the reduced expression of Toll-like receptors and reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels. These effects demonstrate that α-mangostin may possess the properties required for a suitable candidate compound for the management of cardiometabolic diseases.

Antioxidant Potential of Non-Extractable Fractions of Dried Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Oxidative stress causes the progression of diabetes and its complications; thus, maintaining the balance between reactive oxygen species produced by hyperglycemia and the antioxidant defense system is important. We herein examined the antioxidant potential of non-extractable fractions of dried persimmon (NEP) against oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Rats with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes (50 mg/kg body weight) were administered NEP for 9 weeks. Antioxidant enzyme activities and concentration of antioxidants in liver tissues were analyzed with a microplate reader. Extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscle fibers were stained with succinate dehydrogenase and muscle fiber sizes were measured. The administration of NEP increased the body weight of diabetes rats. Regarding antioxidant activities, the oxygen radical absorbance capacity and superoxide dismutase activity in liver tissues significantly increased. In addition, increases in glutathione peroxidase activity in liver tissues and reductions in the cross-sectional area of EDL muscle fibers were significantly suppressed. In these results, NEP improved the antioxidant defense system in the liver tissues of diabetic rats, in addition to attenuating of muscle fibers atrophy against oxidative damage induced by hyperglycemia.

Phytochemical, anti-Acanthamoeba, and anti-adhesion properties of Garcinia mangostana flower as preventive contact lens solution

Acanthamoeba keratitis infection extends due to the growing number of contact lens users. Indigenous plants including Garcinia mangostana play a vital role in human health and well being. Many species of this plant have been reported with myriads of potent medicinal properties. However, the aims of this study were, for the first time, to isolate compounds from the flower of G. mangostana and to test their anti-Acanthamoeba and anti-adhesion activity against Acanthamoeba triangularis. Powdered flowers of G. mangostana were extracted and chromatographed on a silica gel column. The structures of the compounds were established with the aid of ¹H NMR. More so, the anti-Acanthamoeba and anti-adhesion properties were tested on a 96-well polystyrene microtiter plate and soft contact lenses. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to determine the features of A. triangularis on contact lenses. Eight pure compounds were obtained, namely 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone, tovophillin A, garcinone E, garcinone B, α-mangostin, gartinin, 8-deoxygartinin and γ-mangostin. The extract and pure compounds exhibited anti-Acanthamoeba activity with MIC values in the range of 0.25-1 mg/mL. In addition, the extract and α-mangostin displayed significant activity against the adhesion of A. triangularis trophozoites both in polystyrene plate and in contact lenses at 0.5 × MIC (0.25 mg/mL). Furthermore, α-mangostin has the potential to remove A. triangularis adhesion in contact lenses similar to a commercial multipurpose solution (MPS). SEM study confirmed that crude extract and α-mangostin are effective as solutions for contact lenses, which removed A. triangularis trophozoites within 24 h. Alpha-mangostin was non-toxic to Vero cells at a concentration below 39 μM in 24 h. Crude extract of G. mangostana flower and its α-mangostin serve as candidate compounds in the treatment of Acanthamoeba infection or as lens care solution, since they can be used as a source of natural products against Acanthamoeba and virulence factor associated with the adhesion of A. triangularis.

The purple mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana): Defining the anticancer potential of selected xanthones

The purple mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a popular Southeast Asian fruit that has been used traditionally for its health promoting benefits for years. Unique to the mangosteen are a class of phytochemicals known as xanthones that have been reported to display significant anti-cancer and anti-tumor activities, specifically through the promotion of apoptosis, targeting of specific cancer-related proteins, or modulation of cell signaling pathways. α-Mangostin, the most abundant xanthone isolated from the mangosteen, has received substantial attention as it has proven to be a potent phytochemical, specifically as an anticancer agent, in numerous different cancer cell studies and cancer animal models. While the mechanisms for these anticancer effects have been reported in many studies, lesser xanthones, including gartanin, β-mangostin, γ-mangostin, garcinone C, and garcinone E, and mangosteen extracts from the pericarp, roots, rind, and stem show promise for their anticancer activity but their mechanisms of action are not as well developed and remain to be determined. Mangosteen products appear safe and have been well tolerated in human clinical trials where they show antioxidant activity, though their clinical anticancer activity has not yet been evaluated. This review summarizes the work that has been done to explore and explain the anticancer and antitumor activities of α-mangostin, lesser xanthones, and mangosteen extracts in vitro, in vivo, and in humans in various cancers.

Garcinia mangostana and α-Mangostin Revive Ulcerative Colitis-Modified Hepatic Cytochrome P450 Profiles in Mice

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Ulcerative colitis (UC) is inflammation of the large intestine with ulceration but can also cause extraintestinal manifestations (EIM) by damaging surrounding organs such as the liver. &lt;i&gt;Garcinia mangostana&lt;/i&gt; (GM) pericarp and α-mangostin (MGS) have been reported to have anti-inflammatory activity. This study evaluated the effects of GM pericarp extract and MGS on the expression of hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes as an EIM of UC. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; Male ICR mice were orally administered GM pericarp extract (40, 200 and 1000 mg/kg/day), MGS (30 mg/kg/day) or sulfasalazine (SUL) (100 mg/kg/day) daily for 7 days. On days 4-7, UC was induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS 40 kDa, 6 g/kg/day). Profiles of CYP mRNA expression were determined by RT/qPCR. Alkoxyresorufin &lt;i&gt;O&lt;/i&gt;-dealkylation (including ethoxy-, methoxy-, pentoxy- and benzyloxy-resorufin), aniline hydroxylation and erythromycin &lt;i&gt;N&lt;/i&gt;-demethylation CYP responsive activities were also examined. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The DSS-induced UC mice showed suppressed expression&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;of &lt;i&gt;Cyp1a1&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp1a2&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp2b9/10&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp2e1&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp2c29&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp2d9&lt;/i&gt;, &lt;i&gt;Cyp3a11&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Cyp3a13&lt;/i&gt; mRNAs. The GM pericarp extract and MGS restored expression of all investigated CYPs and their responsive enzyme activities in DSS-induced UC mice to levels comparable to the control and parallel to the effects of the anti-inflammatory control SUL. &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; The GM is a promising therapy to restore UC-modified hepatic CYP profiles.

Affinity-Guided Isolation and Identification of Procyanidin B2 from Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) Rinds and its In Vitro LPS Binding and Neutralization Activities

Garcinia mangostana L. (mangosteen) is a tropical fruit that has been used for medicinal purposes in Southeast Asia for centuries. With an interest in its applications to treat infection, we sought to investigate the bioactive constituents of mangosteen and identified the phenolic compound procyanidin B2 from the mangosteen pericarp by examining lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding capacity. The LPS binding and neutralization activities of procyanidin B2 were determined by a combination of biophysical and in silico techniques. The affinity of procyanidin B2 to LPS was 1.61 × 10^-5 M. Procyanidin B2 significantly neutralized LPS and selectively inhibited the LPS-induced release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α from RAW264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Binding thermodynamics revealed favorable hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between procyanidin B2 and LPS. Molecular simulations suggested that hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions were involved in the binding process. These findings have, for the first time, shed light on the anti-inflammatory properties of procyanidin B2 through LPS binding and neutralization and provided a promising lead for the development of antiendotoxin agents.

Effect of Water Extract of Mangosteen Pericarp on Donepezil Pharmacokinetics in Mice

The pharmacokinetic (PK) change in a drug by co-administered herbal products can alter the efficacy and toxicity. In the circumstances that herb-drug combinations have been increasingly attempted to alleviate Alzheimer's disease (AD), the PK evaluation of herb-drug interaction (HDI) is necessary. The change in systemic exposure as well as target tissue distribution of the drug have been issued in HDIs. Recently, the memory-enhancing effects of water extract of mangosteen pericarp (WMP) has been reported, suggesting a potential for the combination of WMP and donepezil (DNP) for AD treatment. Thus, it was evaluated how WMP affects the PK change of donepezil, including systemic exposure and tissue distribution in mice after simultaneous oral administration of DNP with WMP. Firstly, co-treatment of WMP and donepezil showed a stronger inhibitory effect (by 23.0%) on the neurotoxicity induced by Aβ_(25-35) in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells than donepezil alone, suggesting that the combination of WMP and donepezil may be more effective in moderating neurotoxicity than donepezil alone. In PK interaction, WMP increased donepezil concentration in the brain at 4 h (by 63.6%) after administration without affecting systemic exposure of donepezil. Taken together, our results suggest that WMP might be used in combination with DNP as a therapy for AD.

Adjunctive Garcinia mangostana Linn. (Mangosteen) Pericarp for Schizophrenia: A 24-Week Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Efficacy Trial: Péricarpe d'appoint Garcinia mangostana Linn (mangoustan) pour la schizophrénie : un essai d'efficacité de 24 semaines, à double insu, randomisé et contrôlé par placebo

OBJECTIVES

Garcinia mangostana Linn. ("mangosteen") pericarp contains bioactive compounds that may target biological pathways implicated in schizophrenia. We conducted a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of adjunctive mangosteen pericarp, compared to placebo, in the treatment of schizophrenia.

METHODS

People diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), recruited across 2 sites (Brisbane and Victoria, Australia), were randomized to receive 24 weeks of adjunctive mangosteen pericarp (1,000 mg/day) or matched placebo. The primary outcome measure was the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale total score. Secondary outcomes included positive and negative symptoms, general psychopathology, clinical global severity and improvement, participant reported overall improvement, depressive symptoms, functioning, quality of life, and safety data at 24 and 28 weeks (4 weeks postdiscontinuation). Data were collected from July 2016 to February 2019.

RESULTS

Baseline assessments were conducted on 148 people (mangosteen = 74, placebo = 74); data analyses were conducted on 136 (92%) participants with postbaseline data. The treatment group had significantly higher symptom severity compared to placebo, and both groups significantly improved on all symptom, functioning, and quality of life measures over time. No between-group differences were found for the rate of change between baseline and 24 or 28 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Despite promising preclinical and clinical work, our results do not support mangosteen pericarp extract as an adjunctive treatment for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.

A review on α-mangostin as a potential multi-target-directed ligand for Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive memory loss, declining language skills and other cognitive disorders. AD has brought great mental and economic burden to patients, families and society. However due to the complexity of AD's pathology, drugs developed for the treatment of AD often fail in clinical or experimental trials. The main problems of current anti-AD drugs are low efficacy due to mono-target method or side effects, especially high hepatotoxicity. To tackle these two main problems, multi-target-directed ligand (MTDL) based on "one molecule, multiple targets" has been studied. MTDLs can regulate multiple biological targets at the same time, so it has shown higher efficacy, better safety. As a natural active small molecule, α-mangostin (α-M) has shown potential multi-factor anti-AD activities in a series of studies, furthermore it also has a certain hepatoprotective effect. The good availability of α-M also provides support for its application in clinical research. In this work, multiple activities of α-M related to AD therapy were reviewed, which included anti-cholinesterase, anti-amyloid-cascade, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative stress, low toxicity, hepatoprotective effects and drug formulation. It shows that α-M is a promising candidate for the treatment of AD.

Rind from Purple Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) Attenuates Diet-Induced Physiological and Metabolic Changes in Obese Rats

The pulp of the purple mangosteen, Garcinia mangostana, is a popular tropical fruit but the rind containing xanthones such as α-mangostin together with procyanidins and anthocyanidins is usually discarded as waste. However, this rind has been used in South-East Asia for diarrhoea, dysentery, skin infections and wounds. As xanthones have reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses, this study has determined the bioactive compounds and evaluated the effects of G. mangostana rind on physiological, metabolic, liver and cardiovascular parameters in rats with diet-induced metabolic syndrome. Rats fed a diet with increased simple sugars and saturated fats developed obesity, hypertension, increased left ventricular stiffness, dyslipidaemia and fatty liver. Administration of G. mangostana rind as 5% of the food to rats with diet-induced metabolic syndrome gave a dose of 168 mg/kg/day α-mangostin, 355 mg/kg/day procyanidins, 3.9 mg/kg/day anthocyanins and 11.8 mg/kg/day hydroxycitric acid for 8 weeks which reduced body weight and attenuated physiological and metabolic changes in rats including decreased abdominal fat deposition, decreased abdominal circumference and whole-body fat mass, improved liver structure and function and improved cardiovascular parameters such as systolic blood pressure, left ventricular stiffness and endothelial function. These responses were associated with decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells, decreased deposition of collagen in both heart and liver and decreased mean adipocyte size in retroperitoneal adipose tissues. We conclude that, in rats with diet-induced metabolic syndrome, chronic intake of G. mangostana rind decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells which decreased physiological, metabolic, liver and cardiovascular symptoms.

Medicinal Potential of Garcinia Species and Their Compounds

Garcinia is a genus of Clusiaceae, distributed throughout tropical Asia, Africa, New Caledonia, Polynesia, and Brazil. Garcinia plants contain a broad range of biologically active metabolites which, in the last few decades, have received considerable attention due to the chemical compositions of their extracts, with compounds which have been shown to have beneficial effects in several diseases. Our work had the objective of reviewing the benefits of five Garcinia species (G. brasiliensis, G. gardneriana, G. pedunculata, G. cambogia, and G. mangstana). These species provide a rich natural source of bioactive compounds with relevant therapeutic properties and anti-inflammatory effects, such as for the treatment of skin disorders, wounds, pain, and infections, having demonstrated antinociceptive, antioxidant, antitumoral, antifungal, anticancer, antihistaminic, antiulcerogenic, antimicrobial, antiviral, vasodilator, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and cardioprotective properties. This demonstrates the relevance of the genus as a rich source of compounds with valuable therapeutic properties, with potential use in the prevention and treatment of nontransmissible chronic diseases.

Current Evidence to Propose Different Food Supplements for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Review

The use of food supplements for weight loss purposes has rapidly gained popularity as the prevalence of obesity increases. Navigating through the vast, often low quality, literature available is challenging, as is providing informed advice to those asking for it. Herein, we provide a comprehensive literature revision focusing on most currently marketed dietary supplements claimed to favor weight loss, classifying them by their purported mechanism of action. We conclude by proposing a combination of supplements most supported by current evidence, that leverages all mechanisms of action possibly leading to a synergistic effect and greater weight loss in the foreseen absence of adverse events. Further studies will be needed to confirm the weight loss and metabolic improvement that may be obtained through the use of the proposed combination.

Mangosteen Pericarp and Its Bioactive Xanthones: Potential Therapeutic Value in Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and Depression with Pharmacokinetic and Safety Profiles

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and depression are growing burdens for society globally, partly due to a lack of effective treatments. Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.,) pericarp (MP) and its xanthones may provide therapeutic advantages for these disorders. In this review, we discuss potential therapeutic value of MP-derived agents in AD, PD, and depression with their pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. MP-derived agents have shown multifunctional effects including neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-neuroinflammatory actions. In addition, they target specific disease pathologies, such as amyloid beta production and deposition as well as cholinergic dysfunction in AD; α-synuclein aggregation in PD; and modulation of monoamine disturbance in depression. Particularly, the xanthone derivatives, including α-mangostin and γ-mangostin, exhibit potent pharmacological actions. However, low oral bioavailability and poor brain penetration may limit their therapeutic applications. These challenges can be overcome in part by administering as a form of MP extract (MPE) or using specific carrier systems. MPE and α-mangostin are generally safe and well-tolerated in animals. Furthermore, mangosteen-based products are safe for humans. Therefore, MPE and its bioactive xanthones are promising candidates for the treatment of AD, PD, and depression. Further studies including clinical trials are essential to decipher their efficacy, and pharmacokinetic and safety profiles in these disorders.

Garcinone-E exhibits anticancer effects in HeLa human cervical carcinoma cells mediated via programmed cell death, cell cycle arrest and suppression of cell migration and invasion

Xanthones are an important class of natural compounds bearing huge bioactivity profiles. Garcinone-E is one among most active xanthones showing potential anticancer activity against various human cancer cell lines. Therefore, the current study was performed to explore the anticancer potency of naturally occurring garcinone-E xanthone against human HeLa cervical cancer cells. The underlying mechanism of action was also tried to be explored via testifying its induction of programmed cell death, arrest of cell cycle, suppression of cell migration, cell invasion and cell adhesion. MTT assay was implemented to estimate the viability of HeLa cells after garcinone-E exposure and clonogenic assay was used to analyze the effect on clonogenic potential. Acridine orange/ethidium bromine (AO/EB) staining assay was performed for monitoring of programmed cell death along with western blotting. Flow cytometric studies were carried out to analyze cell cycle check points. Transwell chambers assays were carried out for studying the impact of garcinone-E on migration and invasion potency of HeLa cells. Western blotting was used to study the expressions of apoptosis linked proteins in HeLa cells. Results indicated that garcinone-E remarkably decreased the viability to minimum in HeLa cells in both dose and time-reliant manner. The clonogenic capacity of HeLa cells was efficiently reduced by garcinone exposure. AO/EB staining showed that the anti-viability action of garcinone-E was apoptosis allied which was supported by western blotting as well. The cell cycle check points study indicated cell cycle arrest at G2/M-phase. HeLa cell migration and invasion were reduced efficiently after being subjected to garcinone-E treatment in a dose reliant fashion. In conclusion, garcinone-E has a remarkable potential to act as anti-cervical cancer chemopreventive provided further in vivo studies are required.

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) flesh supplementation attenuates biochemical and morphological changes in the liver and kidney of high fat diet-induced obese rats

Background

Mangosteen is a native fruit from Southeast Asia. It is rich in phenolic compounds such as xanthones, anthocyanins and phenolic acids. Mangosteen pericarp extract showed inhibitory activity towards pancreatic lipase and may have potential use for obesity treatment. However, there is limited study on the beneficial effects of mangosteen flesh against obesity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Garcinia mangostana flesh (GMF) on biochemical and morphological changes in the liver and kidney of high-fat diet-induced obese rats.

Methods

Forty healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised into five groups (n = 8) with four groups were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks and a control group was fed with rat chow diet. Supplementation with GMF in obese rats was continued for 7 weeks starting from week 10th after the initiation of HFD at different doses (200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg). The positive and negative control rats were given distilled water via oral gavage. Plasma lipid profile, antioxidant enzymes and pro-inflammatory markers were determined using commercial kits. Liver and kidney structure were defined by histology.

Results

The rats fed with HFD for 10 weeks increased plasma LDL-cholesterol, reduced plasma glutathione peroxidase level and had significantly higher body weight compared to normal control rats (p < 0.05). Obese rats also showed elevated level of TNF-α and IL-6 after 17 weeks of HFD. Supplementation with GMF for 7 weeks in obese rats reduced their body weight, improved lipid profile, increased total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase level and lowered plasma pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6) (p < 0.05). In addition, GMF supplementation attenuated the abnormalities of the liver and kidney tissue caused by high fat diet.

Conclusion

Taken together, the findings suggest that supplementation of Garcinia mangostana flesh may help in reducing body weight and has the potential to ameliorate the biochemical changes of the high fat diet-induced obesity in rats. Further studies on pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic are required before the results are translated to human.

Crude α-Mangostin Suppresses the Development of Atherosclerotic Lesions in Apoe-Deficient Mice by a Possible M2 Macrophage-Mediated Mechanism

Lifestyle choices play a significant role in the etiology of atherosclerosis. Male Apoe^−/− mice that develop spontaneous atherosclerotic lesions were fed 0%, 0.3%, and 0.4% mangosteen extracts, composed largely of α-mangostin (MG), for 17 weeks. Body weight gains were significantly decreased in both MG-treated groups compared to the control, but the general condition remained good throughout the study. The levels of total cholesterol (decreased very-low-density lipoprotein in lipoprotein profile) and triglycerides decreased significantly in the MG-treated mice in conjunction with decreased hepatic HMG-CoA synthase and Fatty acid transporter. Additionally, increased serum lipoprotein lipase activity and histopathology further showed a significant reduction in atherosclerotic lesions at both levels of MG exposure. Real-time PCR analysis for macrophage indicators showed a significant elevation in the levels of Cd163, an M2 macrophage marker, in the lesions of mice receiving 0.4% MG. However, the levels of Nos2, associated with M1 macrophages, showed no change. In addition, quantitative immunohistochemical analysis of macrophage subtypes showed a tendency for increased M2 populations (CD68⁺/CD163⁺) in the lesions of mice given 0.4% MG. In further analysis of the cytokine-polarizing macrophage subtypes, the levels of Interleukin13 (Il13), associated with M2 polarization, were significantly elevated in lesions exposed to 0.4% MG. Thus, MG could suppress the development of atherosclerosis in Apoe^−/− mice, possibly through an M2 macrophage-mediated mechanism.

The Therapeutic Potential of Mangosteen Pericarp as an Adjunctive Therapy for Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia

New treatments are urgently needed for serious mental illnesses including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. This review proposes that Garcinia mangostana Linn. (mangosteen) pericarp is a possible adjunctive therapeutic agent for these disorders. Research to date demonstrates that neurobiological properties of the mangosteen pericarp are well aligned with the current understanding of the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Mangosteen pericarp has antioxidant, putative neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and putative mitochondrial enhancing properties, with animal studies demonstrating favorable pharmacotherapeutic benefits with respect to these disorders. This review summarizes evidence of its properties and supports the case for future studies to assess the utility of mangosteen pericarp as an adjunctive treatment option for mood and psychotic disorders.

Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in the Anticancer Activity of Natural Compounds

Cancer represents a serious global health problem, and its incidence and mortality are rapidly growing worldwide. One of the main causes of the failure of an anticancer treatment is the development of drug resistance by cancer cells. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new drugs characterized by better pharmacological and toxicological profiles. Natural compounds can represent an optimal collection of bioactive molecules. Many natural compounds have been proven to possess anticancer effects in different types of tumors, but often the molecular mechanisms associated with their cytotoxicity are not completely understood. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle involved in multiple cellular processes. Alteration of ER homeostasis and its appropriate functioning originates a cascade of signaling events known as ER stress response or unfolded protein response (UPR). The UPR pathways involve three different sensors (protein kinase RNA(PKR)-like ER kinase (PERK), inositol requiring enzyme1α (IRE1) and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6)) residing on the ER membranes. Although the main purpose of UPR is to restore this organelle's homeostasis, a persistent UPR can trigger cell death pathways such as apoptosis. There is a growing body of evidence showing that ER stress may play a role in the cytotoxicity of many natural compounds. In this review we present an overview of different plant-derived natural compounds, such as curcumin, resveratrol, green tea polyphenols, tocotrienols, and garcinia derivates, that exert their anticancer activity via ER stress modulation in different human cancers.

Recent updates on metabolite composition and medicinal benefits of mangosteen plant

BACKGROUND

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) fruit has a unique sweet-sour taste and is rich in beneficial compounds such as xanthones. Mangosteen originally been used in various folk medicines to treat diarrhea, wounds, and fever. More recently, it had been used as a major component in health supplement products for weight loss and for promoting general health. This is perhaps due to its known medicinal benefits, including as anti-oxidant and anti-inflammation. Interestingly, publications related to mangosteen have surged in recent years, suggesting its popularity and usefulness in research laboratories. However, there are still no updated reviews (up to 2018) in this booming research area, particularly on its metabolite composition and medicinal benefits.

METHOD

In this review, we have covered recent articles within the years of 2016 to 2018 which focus on several aspects including the latest findings on the compound composition of mangosteen fruit as well as its medicinal usages.

RESULT

Mangosteen has been vastly used in medicinal areas including in anti-cancer, anti-microbial, and anti-diabetes treatments. Furthermore, we have also described the benefits of mangosteen extract in protecting various human organs such as liver, skin, joint, eye, neuron, bowel, and cardiovascular tissues against disorders and diseases.

CONCLUSION

All in all, this review describes the numerous manipulations of mangosteen extracted compounds in medicinal areas and highlights the current trend of its research. This will be important for future directed research and may allow researchers to tackle the next big challenge in mangosteen study: drug development and human applications.

Acute toxicity and teratogenicity of α-mangostin in zebrafish embryos

IMPACT STATEMENT

α-Mangostin has been reported to have anticancer properties both in vitro and in vivo models. Although there are several studies that evaluated the toxicity of the compound in rodent models, we are the first to evaluate the teratogenicity of α-mangostin. In the present work, we found that α-mangostin induced mortality and malformations in zebrafish embryos. In addition, we exhibited that the compound also disrupted the reactive oxygen species and hemoglobin levels. These findings suggest that α-mangostin may possibly cause the same adverse effects on human health. The mechanisms of these toxicological effects of the compound will be further elucidated and the effects found in zebrafish embryos need to be verified in other animal models.

Mangosteen Extract Shows a Potent Insulin Sensitizing Effect in Obese Female Patients: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

There is a widely acknowledged association between insulin resistance and obesity/type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and insulin sensitizing treatments have proved effective in preventing diabetes and inducing weight loss. Obesity and T2DM are also associated with increased inflammation. Mangosteen is a tropical tree, whose fruits—known for their antioxidant properties—have been recently suggested having a possible further role in the treatment of obesity and T2DM. The objective of this pilot study has been to evaluate safety and efficacy of treatment with mangosteen extract on insulin resistance, weight management, and inflammatory status in obese female patients with insulin resistance. Twenty-two patients were randomized 1:1 to behavioral therapy alone or behavioral therapy and mangosteen and 20 completed the 26-week study. The mangosteen group reported a significant improvement in insulin sensitivity (homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance, HOMA-IR −53.22% vs. −15.23%, p = 0.004), and no side effect attributable to treatment was reported. Given the positive preliminary results we report and the excellent safety profile, we suggest a possible supplementary role of mangosteen extracts in the treatment of obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation.

Bioactivity and pharmacological properties of α-mangostin from the mangosteen fruit: a review

INTRODUCTION

α-Mangostin (α-MG) is the most representative xanthone isolated from the pericarp of mangosteen, possessing extensive biological activities and pharmacological properties, considered as an antineoplastic agent, antioxidant, anti-proliferation and induces apoptosis.

AREAS COVERED

The bioactivity and pharmacological properties of α-MG are being actively investigated by various industrial and academic institutions. The bioactivities of α-MG have been summarized in several previous reviews, which were worthy of high compliment. However, recently, many new literatures about the bioactivities of α-MG have been further reported from 2016 to 2017. Herein, the activities of α-MG are supplemented and summarized in this text.

EXPERT OPINION

As previously said, α-MG possesses good bioactivities pharmacological properties. More recently, it found that α-MG has the effect of maintaining cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal health and controlling free radical oxidation. Furthermore, α-MG has more applications in cosmetics, with the effects of anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, acne treatment, maintenance of skin lubrication. The application of α-MG in treating rheumatoid arthritis has been disclosed and the MG-loaded self-micro emulsion (MG-SME) was designed to improve its pharmacokinetic deficiencies. As mentioned above, α-MG can be a promising drug, also worthy of developing, and further research is crucial for the future application of α-MG.

Usage, biological activity, and safety of selected botanical dietary supplements consumed in the United States

In view of the continuous growth of the botanical dietary supplement industry and the increased popularity of lesser known or exotic botanicals, recent findings are described on the phytochemical composition and biological activities of five selected fruits consumed in the United States, namely, açaí, noni, mangosteen, black chokeberry, and maqui berry. A review of the ethnomedicinal uses of these plants has revealed some similarities ranging from wound-healing to the treatment of fever and infectious diseases. Laboratory studies on açaí have shown both its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in vitro, and more importantly, its neuroprotective properties in animals. Anthraquinones and iridoid glucosides isolated from noni fruit induce the phase II enzyme quinone reductase (QR), and noni fruit juice exhibited antitumor and antidiabetic activities in certain animal models. Antitumorigenic effects of mangosteen in animal xenograft models of human cancers have been attributed to its xanthone content, and pure α-mangostin was shown to display antineoplastic activity in mice despite a reported low oral bioavailability. Work on the less extensively investigated black chokeberry and maqui berry has focused on recent isolation studies and has resulted in the identification of bioactive secondary metabolites with QR-inducing and hydroxyl-radical scavenging properties. On the basis of the safety studies and toxicity case reports described herein, these fruits may be generally considered as safe. However, cases of adulteration found in a commercialized açaí product and some conflicting results from mangosteen safety studies warrant further investigation on the safety of these marketed botanical dietary supplements.

Design of a "Mini" Nucleic Acid Probe for Cooperative Binding of an RNA-Repeated Transcript Associated with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1

Toxic RNAs containing expanded trinucleotide repeats are the cause of many neuromuscular disorders, one being myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). DM1 is triggered by CTG-repeat expansion in the 3'-untranslated region of the DMPK gene, resulting in a toxic gain of RNA function through sequestration of MBNL1 protein, among others. Herein, we report the development of a relatively short miniPEG-γ peptide nucleic acid probe, two triplet repeats in length, containing terminal pyrene moieties, that is capable of binding rCUG repeats in a sequence-specific and selective manner. The newly designed probe can discriminate the pathogenic rCUG^exp from the wild-type transcript and disrupt the rCUG^exp-MBNL1 complex. The work provides a proof of concept for the development of relatively short nucleic acid probes for targeting RNA-repeat expansions associated with DM1 and other related neuromuscular disorders.

Garcinone E induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in ovarian cancer cells

Ovarian cancer remains the most lethal gynecological malignant tumor. In this study, 24 xanthones were isolated and identified from the pericarps of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), and their anti-proliferative activities were tested in ovarian cancer cells. Garcinone E (GE) was found to exhibit excellent anti-proliferative effects among the tested xanthones. It significantly inhibited the proliferation in HEY, A2780, and A2780/Taxol cells as evidenced by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, Hoechst 33342 staining, annexin V/PI staining, and JC-1 staining. It induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and activated the protective inositol-requiring kinase (IRE)-1α pathway. Knocking down IRE-1α further activated the caspase cascade and caused an increase in cell death. Moreover, GE eliminated the migratory ability of HEY cells by reducing the expression of RhoA and Rac. It also blocked the invasion, which might be related to downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), i.e., MMP-9 and MMP-2, and upregulation of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP) -1 and TIMP-2. In summary, GE exerts anticancer activities by inducing apoptosis and suppressing migration and invasion in ovarian cancer cells, which indicates its therapeutic potential for ovarian cancer.

Supplementation with a Polyphenol-Rich Extract, TensLess® , Attenuates Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Improves Muscle Recovery from Damages After Eccentric Exercise

High-intensity exercises are known to provoke delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Delayed onset muscle soreness typically occurs within the first 24 h, peaks between 24 and 72 h, and can last as long as 5-7 days post-exercise. Delayed onset muscle soreness is a multifactorial process involving both mechanical and biochemical components, associated with clinical features that may limit range of motion, and athletes seek for effective recovery strategies to optimize future training sessions. TensLess^® is a food supplement developed to help manage post-exercise recovery. The supplement has been investigated on 13 recreationally active athletes of both sex, during a randomized, double-blind, and crossover clinical investigation, including a 3-week washout period. The clinical investigation was based on the study of TensLess^® effects for DOMS management and on the reduction of associated muscle damages following an eccentric exercise protocol. Supplementation with TensLess^® induced significant decrease in DOMS perception (-33%; p = 0.008) as of the first 24 h; this was significantly correlated with a lowered release of muscle damage-associated biomarkers, namely myoglobin, creatinine, and creatine kinase, for the whole length of the recovery period. Taken together, these positive results clearly indicate that post-exercise supplementation with TensLess^® may preserve myocytes and reduce soreness following eccentric exercise-induced damages, and, accordingly, significantly shorten muscle recovery. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Medicinal properties of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.): A comprehensive update

Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia known as mangosteen which fruits possess a distinctive and pleasant taste that has granted them the epithet of "queen of the fruits". The seeds and pericarps of the fruit have a long history of use in the traditional medicinal practices of the region, and beverages containing mangosteen pulp and pericarps are sold worldwide as nutritional supplements. The main phytochemicals present in the species are isoprenylated xanthones, a class of secondary metabolites with multiple reports of biological effects, such as antioxidant, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic and anti-obesity. The diversity of actions displayed by mangosteen xanthones shows that these compounds target multiple signaling pathways involved in different pathologies, and place them as valuable sources for developing new drugs to treat chronic and degenerative diseases. This review article presents a comprehensive update of the toxicological findings on animal models, and the preclinical anticancer, analgesic, neuroprotective, antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of G. mangostana L. extracts and its main isolates. Pharmacokinetics, drug delivery systems and reports on dose-finding human trials are also examined.

Alpha-Mangostin Reverses Multidrug Resistance by Attenuating the Function of the Multidrug Resistance-Linked ABCG2 Transporter

The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) drug transporter ABCG2 can actively efflux a wide variety of chemotherapeutic agents out of cancer cells and subsequently reduce the intracellular accumulation of these drugs. Therefore, the overexpression of ABCG2 often contributes to the development of multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer cells, which is one of the major obstacles to successful cancer chemotherapy. Moreover, ABCG2 is highly expressed in various tissues including the intestine and blood-brain barrier (BBB), limiting the absorption and bioavailability of many therapeutic agents. For decades, the task of developing a highly effective synthetic inhibitor of ABCG2 has been hindered mostly by the intrinsic toxicity, the lack of specificity, and complex pharmacokinetics. Alternatively, considering the wide range of diversity and relatively nontoxic nature of natural products, developing potential modulators of ABCG2 from natural sources is particularly valuable. α-Mangostin is a natural xanthone derived from the pericarps of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) with various pharmacological purposes, including suppressing angiogenesis and inducing cancer cell growth arrest. In this study, we demonstrated that at nontoxic concentrations, α-mangostin effectively and selectively inhibits ABCG2-mediated drug transport and reverses MDR in ABCG2-overexpressing MDR cancer cells. Direct interactions between α-mangostin and the ABCG2 drug-binding site(s) were confirmed by stimulation of ATPase activity and by inhibition of photolabeling of the substrate-binding site(s) of ABCG2 with [¹²⁵I]iodoarylazidoprazosin. In summary, our findings show that α-mangostin has great potential to be further developed into a promising modulator of ABCG2 for reversing MDR and for its use in combination therapy for patients with MDR tumors.

Review of Garcinia mangostana and its Xanthones in Metabolic Syndrome and Related Complications

Metabolic syndrome is coexistence of abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and hypertension that causes cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and their complications, low quality and short lifespan. Garcinia mangostana and its xanthones such as α-mangostin have been shown desirable effects such as anti-obesity, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-dyslipidemia, anti-diabetic and antiinflammatory effects in experimental studies. Various databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science with keywords of 'Garcinia mangostana', 'mangosteen', 'α-mangostin', 'metabolic syndrome', 'hypoglycemic', 'antihyperglicemic', 'antidiabetic', 'hypotensive', 'antihypertensive', 'atherosclerosis', 'arteriosclerosis' and 'hyperlipidemia' have been investigated in this search without publication time limitation. This study reviewed all pharmacological effects and molecular pathways of G. mangostana and its xanthones in the management of metabolic syndrome and its complications in in-vitro and in-vivo studies. Based on these studies, mangosteen and its xanthones have good potential to design human studies for controlling and modification of metabolic syndrome and its related disorders such as obesity, disrupted lipid profile, diabetes and its complications. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pharmacology of mangostins and their derivatives: A comprehensive review

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn.) is a well-known tropical tree indigenous to Southeast Asia. Its fruit's pericarp abounds with a class of isoprenylated xanthones which are referred as mangostins. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that mangostins and their derivatives possess diverse pharmacological activities, such as antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic activities as well as neuroprotective properties in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This review article provides a comprehensive review of the pharmacological activities of mangostins and their derivatives to reveal their promising utilities in the treatment of certain important diseases, mainly focusing on the discussions of the underlying molecular targets/pathways, modes of action, and relevant structure-activity relationships (SARs). Meanwhile, the pharmacokinetics (PK) profile and recent toxicological studies of mangostins are also described for further druggability exploration in the future.

Syntheses of (+)-30-epi-, (-)-6-epi-, (±)-6,30-epi-13,14-Didehydroxyisogarcinol and (±)-6,30-epi-Garcimultiflorone A Utilizing Highly Diastereoselective, Lewis Acid-Controlled Cyclizations

The first syntheses of 13,14-didehydroxyisogarcinol (6) and garcimultiflorone A (5) stereoisomers are reported in six steps from a commercially available phloroglucinol. Lewis acid-controlled, diastereoselective cationic oxycyclizations enabled asymmetric syntheses of (-)-6-epi-6 and (+)-30-epi-6. A similar strategy enabled production of the meso-dervied isomers (±)-6,30-epi-6 and (±)-6,30-epi-5. Finally, a convenient strategy for gram scale synthesis was developed utilizing diastereomer separation at a later stage in the synthesis that minimized the number of necessary synthetic operations to access all possible stereoisomers.

In vitro assays in natural products research - a matter of concentration and relevance to in vivo administration using resveratrol, α-mangostin/γ-mangostin and xanthohumol as examples

Herbal or botanical dietary supplements are an ever increasingly popular category of products in the United States and around the world. In vitro data can provide meaningful insight into the potential target and mechanism of action for a proposed active compound but may also be misused to promote a supplement to consumers with unverified health claims. In vitro data need to be considered alongside pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data in preclinical animal and clinical human trials. While considerable activity of compounds and extracts in vitro may lead to further testing in vivo, in many instances, concentrations tested in cell lines or isolated targets are not achievable at the target site in vivo. Thus, whether the in vitro data are relevant to humans after oral administration is questionable. This review will discuss this discrepancy using in vitro and in vivo data of resveratrol, xanthones (α-mangostin and γ-mangostin) and xanthohumol.

Antioxidant potential in non-extractable fractions of dried persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.)

Dried fruits of persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) are a traditional food in Japan and contain large quantities of tannins. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potentials of non-extractable fractions from dried persimmons. Hydrolysed non-extractable fractions showed the highest antioxidant activities in vitro. In subsequent experiments, the plasma oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values in rats supplemented with a 5% non-extractable fraction were approximately 1.5times higher than those in control rats after 1week in vivo. Furthermore, using an in vitro model of the gastrointestinal tract, the ORAC values of the non-extractable fraction were significantly increased with colonic fermentation in the large bowel stage. These data indicate that non-extractable fractions may possess significant antioxidant potential in vitro and in vivo.