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Li XX, Yan Y, Zhang J, Ding K, Xia CY, Pan XG, Shi YJ, Xu JK, He J, Zhang WK. Hyperforin: A natural lead compound with multiple pharmacological activities. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2023; 206:113526. [PMID: 36442576 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum L. (Clusiaceae), commonly known as St. John's wort, has a rich historical background as one of the oldest and most widely studied herbal medicines. Hyperforin is the main antidepressant active ingredient of St. John's wort. In recent years, hyperforin has attached increasing attention due to its multiple pharmacological activities. In this review, the information on hyperforin was systematically summarized. Hyperforin is considered to be a lead compound with diverse pharmacological activities including anti-depression, anti-tumor, anti-dementia, anti-diabetes and others. It can be obtained by extraction and synthesis. Further pharmacological studies and more precise detection methods will help develop a value for hyperforin. In addition, structural modification and pharmaceutical preparation technology will be beneficial to promoting the research progress of hyperforin based innovative drugs. Although these works are full of known and unknown challenges, researchers are still expected to make hyperforin play a greater value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Xin Li
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China; School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Yu Yan
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Jia Zhang
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Kang Ding
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Cong-Yuan Xia
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Xue-Ge Pan
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Yan-Jing Shi
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Jie-Kun Xu
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
| | - Jun He
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
| | - Wei-Ku Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
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Cardile A, Zanrè V, Campagnari R, Asson F, Addo SS, Orlandi E, Menegazzi M. Hyperforin Elicits Cytostatic/Cytotoxic Activity in Human Melanoma Cell Lines, Inhibiting Pro-Survival NF-κB, STAT3, AP1 Transcription Factors and the Expression of Functional Proteins Involved in Mitochondrial and Cytosolic Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021263. [PMID: 36674794 PMCID: PMC9860844 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperforin (HPF), the main component responsible for the antidepressant action of Hypericum perforatum, displays additional beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobic, and antitumor activities. Among its antitumor effects, HPF activity on melanoma is poorly documented. Melanoma, especially BRAF-mutated melanoma, is still a high-mortality tumor type and the currently available therapies do not provide solutions. We investigated HPF's antimelanoma effectiveness in A375, FO1 and SK-Mel-28 human BRAF-mutated cell lines. Cell viability assays documented that all melanoma cells were affected by low HPF concentrations (EC50% 2-4 µM) in a time-dependent manner. A Br-deoxy-uridine incorporation assay attested a significant reduction of cell proliferation accompanied by decreased expression of cyclin D1 and A2, CDK4 and of the Rb protein phosphorylation, as assessed by immunoblots. In addition, the expression of P21/waf1 and the activated form of P53 were increased in A375 and SK-Mel-28 cells. Furthermore, HPF exerts cytotoxic effects. Apoptosis is induced 24 h after HPF administration, documented by an increase of cleaved-PARP1 and a decrease of both Bcl2 and Bcl-xL expression levels. Autophagy is induced, attested by an augmented LC3B expression and augmentation of the activated form of AMPK. Moreover, HPF lowers GPX4 enzyme expression, suggesting ferroptosis induction. HPF has been reported to activate the TRPC6 Ca++ channel and/or Ca++ and Zn++ release from mitochondria stores, increasing cytosolic Ca++ and Zn++ concentrations. Our data highlighted that HPF affects many cell-signaling pathways, including signaling induced by Ca++, such as FRA1, pcJun and pCREB, the expression or activity of which are increased shortly after treatment. However, the blockage of the TRPC6 Ca++ channel or the use of Ca++ and Zn++ chelators do not hinder HPF cytostatic/cytotoxic activity, suggesting that damages induced in melanoma cells may pass through other pathways. Remarkably, 24 h after HPF treatment, the expression of activated forms of the transcription factors NF-κB P65 subunit and STAT3 are significantly lowered. Several cytosolic (PGM2, LDHA and pPKM2) and mitochondrial (UQCRC1, COX4 and ATP5B) enzymes are downregulated by HPF treatment, suggesting a generalized reduction of vital functions in melanoma cells. In line with these results is the recognized ability of HPF to affect mitochondrial membrane potential by acting as a protonophore. Finally, HPF can hinder both melanoma cell migration and colony formation in soft agar. In conclusion, we provide evidence of the pleiotropic antitumor effects induced by HPF in melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Cardile
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Valentina Zanrè
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Rachele Campagnari
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Asson
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Solomon Saforo Addo
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Orlandi
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marta Menegazzi
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Bajrai LH, El-Kafrawy SA, Hassan AM, Tolah AM, Alnahas RS, Sohrab SS, Rehan M, Azhar EI. In vitro screening of anti-viral and virucidal effects against SARS-CoV-2 by Hypericum perforatum and Echinacea. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21723. [PMID: 36522420 PMCID: PMC9754313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum and Echinacea are reported to have antiviral activities against several viral infections. In this study, H. perforatum (St. John's Wort) and Echinacea were tested in vitro using Vero E6 cells for their anti-viral effects against the newly identified Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) through its infectious cycle from 0 to 48 h post infection. The hypericin of H. perforatum and the different parts (roots, seeds, aerial) of two types of Echinacea species (Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia) were tested for their anti-viral activities to measure the inhibition of viral load using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) on cell culture assay. Interestingly, the H. perforatum-Echinacea mixture (1:1 ratio) of H. perforatum and Echinacea was tested as well on SARS-CoV-2 and showed crucial anti-viral activity competing H. perforatum then Echinacea effects as anti-viral treatment. Therefore, the results H. perforatum and Echinacea species, applied in this study showed significant anti-viral and virucidal effects in the following order of potency: H. perforatum, H. perforatum-Echinacea mixture, and Echinacea on SARS-CoV-2 infectious cycle. Additionally, molecular simulation analysis of the compounds with essential proteins (Mpro and RdRp) of the SARS-CoV-2 revealed the most potent bioactive compounds such as Echinacin, Echinacoside, Cyanin, Cyanidin 3-(6''-alonylglucoside, Quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, Proanthocyanidins, Rutin, Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and Quercetin-3-O-xyloside. Thus, based on the outcome of this study, it is demanding the setup of clinical trial with specific therapeutic protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Hussein Bajrai
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sherif Ali El-Kafrawy
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Hassan
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Majdi Tolah
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Rabig, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabie Saleh Alnahas
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sayed Sartaj Sohrab
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Rehan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esam Ibraheem Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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Caldeira GI, Gouveia LP, Serrano R, Silva OD. Hypericum Genus as a Natural Source for Biologically Active Compounds. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11192509. [PMID: 36235373 PMCID: PMC9573133 DOI: 10.3390/plants11192509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Hypericum L. genus plants are distributed worldwide, with numerous species identified throughout all continents, except Antarctica. These plant species are currently used in various systems of traditional medicine to treat mild depression, wounds and burns, diarrhea, pain, fevers, and their secondary metabolites previously shown, and the in vitro and/or in vivo cytotoxic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and hepatoprotective activities, as well as the acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase inhibitory activities. We conducted a systematic bibliographic search according to the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines to answer the question: "What is known about plants of Hypericum genus as a source of natural products with potential clinical biological activity?" We documented 414 different natural products with confirmed in vitro/in vivo biological activities, and 58 different Hypericum plant species as sources for these natural products. Phloroglucinols, acylphloroglucinols, xanthones, and benzophenones were the main chemical classes identified. The selective cytotoxicity against tumor cells, cell protection, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidepressant, anti-Alzheimer's, and adipogenesis-inhibition biological activities are described. Acylphloroglucinols were the most frequent compounds with anticancer and cell-protection mechanisms. To date, no work has been published with a full descriptive list directly relating secondary metabolites to their species of origin, plant parts used, extraction methodologies, mechanisms of action, and biological activities.
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Budantsev AL, Prikhodko VA, Varganova IV, Okovityi SV. BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF HYPERICUM PERFORATUM L. (HYPERICACEAE): A REVIEW. PHARMACY & PHARMACOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.19163/2307-9266-2021-9-1-17-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. L. Budantsev
- Komarov Botanical Institute of Russian Academy of Science
2, Prof. Popov St., St. Petersburg, Russia, 197376
| | - V. A. Prikhodko
- Saint Petersburg State Chemical and Pharmaceutical University
14, Prof. Popov St., St. Petersburg, Russia, 197376
| | - I. V. Varganova
- Komarov Botanical Institute of Russian Academy of Science
2, Prof. Popov St., St. Petersburg, Russia, 197376
| | - S. V. Okovityi
- Saint Petersburg State Chemical and Pharmaceutical University
14, Prof. Popov St., St. Petersburg, Russia, 197376
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Novelli M, Beffy P, Masini M, Vantaggiato C, Martino L, Marselli L, Marchetti P, De Tata V. Selective beta-cell toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin on isolated pancreatic islets. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 265:129103. [PMID: 33288281 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An association between exposure to environmental pollutants and diabetes risk has been repeatedly shown by epidemiological studies. However, the biological basis of this association still need to be clarified. In this research we explored the effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure on isolated pancreatic islets. After 1, 6 and 24 h exposure of isolated islets to different concentrations (1-50 nM) of TCDD we assayed: i) cell survival; ii) ultrastructure; iii) glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS); iv) expression of selected genes. A significant, dose-related increase of both necrosis and apoptosis was observed isolated rat islets after 24 h exposure to TCDD. The electron microscopic analysis revealed, at the same time point, the presence of several ultrastructural alterations (mitochondrial swelling, increased mitophagy, dilation of the endoplasmic reticulum) that, very interestingly, were exclusively observed in beta cells and not in other endocrine cells. Similar results were obtained in isolated human islets. GSIS was rapidly (1 h) and persistently (6 and 24 h) decreased by TCDD exposure even at the smallest concentration (1 nM). TCDD exposure significantly affected gene expression in isolated islets: Glut2, Gck, Bcl-xL, MafA, Pdx1 FoxO1 and IRE1 gene expression was significantly decreased, whereas Puma, DP5, iNOS and Chop gene expression was significantly increased after 6 h exposure to TCDD. In conclusion, our results clearly indicated that pancreatic beta cells represent not only a sensitive but also a specific target of the toxic action of dioxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Novelli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Pascale Beffy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Matilde Masini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Chiara Vantaggiato
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | - Luisa Martino
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy
| | | | | | - Vincenzo De Tata
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Italy; CIME (Centro Interdipartimentale di Microscopia Elettronica), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Menegazzi M, Masiello P, Novelli M. Anti-Tumor Activity of Hypericum perforatum L. and Hyperforin through Modulation of Inflammatory Signaling, ROS Generation and Proton Dynamics. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 10:antiox10010018. [PMID: 33379141 PMCID: PMC7824709 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper we review the mechanisms of the antitumor effects of Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort, SJW) and its main active component hyperforin (HPF). SJW extract is commonly employed as antidepressant due to its ability to inhibit monoamine neurotransmitters re-uptake. Moreover, further biological properties make this vegetal extract very suitable for both prevention and treatment of several diseases, including cancer. Regular use of SJW reduces colorectal cancer risk in humans and prevents genotoxic effects of carcinogens in animal models. In established cancer, SJW and HPF can still exert therapeutic effects by their ability to downregulate inflammatory mediators and inhibit pro-survival kinases, angiogenic factors and extracellular matrix proteases, thereby counteracting tumor growth and spread. Remarkably, the mechanisms of action of SJW and HPF include their ability to decrease ROS production and restore pH imbalance in tumor cells. The SJW component HPF, due to its high lipophilicity and mild acidity, accumulates in membranes and acts as a protonophore that hinders inner mitochondrial membrane hyperpolarization, inhibiting mitochondrial ROS generation and consequently tumor cell proliferation. At the plasma membrane level, HPF prevents cytosol alkalization and extracellular acidification by allowing protons to re-enter the cells. These effects can revert or at least attenuate cancer cell phenotype, contributing to hamper proliferation, neo-angiogenesis and metastatic dissemination. Furthermore, several studies report that in tumor cells SJW and HPF, mainly at high concentrations, induce the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, likely by collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential. Based on these mechanisms, we highlight the SJW/HPF remarkable potentiality in cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Menegazzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, School of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-802-7168
| | - Pellegrino Masiello
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, I-56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.M.); (M.N.)
| | - Michela Novelli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, I-56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.M.); (M.N.)
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Novelli M, Masiello P, Beffy P, Menegazzi M. Protective Role of St. John's Wort and Its Components Hyperforin and Hypericin against Diabetes through Inhibition of Inflammatory Signaling: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8108. [PMID: 33143088 PMCID: PMC7662691 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a very common chronic disease with progressively increasing prevalence. Besides the well-known autoimmune and inflammatory pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, in many people, metabolic changes and inappropriate lifestyle favor a subtle chronic inflammatory state that contributes to development of insulin resistance and progressive loss of β-cell function and mass, eventually resulting in metabolic syndrome or overt type 2 diabetes. In this paper, we review the anti-inflammatory effects of the extract of Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort, SJW) and its main active ingredients firstly in representative pathological situations on inflammatory basis and then in pancreatic β cells and in obese or diabetic animal models. The simultaneous and long-lasting inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory cytokine-induced β-cell dysfunction/death and insulin resistance make SJW particularly suitable for both preventive and therapeutic use in metabolic diseases. Hindrance of inflammatory cytokine signaling is likely dependent on the hyperforin content of SJW extract, but recent data reveal that hypericin can also exert relevant protective effects, mediated by activation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase cAMP-dependent (PKA)/adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, against high-fat-diet-induced metabolic abnormalities. Actually, the mechanisms of action of the two main components of SJW appear complementary, strengthening the efficacy of the plant extract. Careful quantitative analysis of SJW components and suitable dosage, with monitoring of possible drug-drug interaction in a context of remarkable tolerability, are easily achievable pre-requisites for forthcoming clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Novelli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Masiello
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Pascale Beffy
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Marta Menegazzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, School of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
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Bicyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols and their derivatives: structural modification, structure-activity relationship, biological activity and mechanism of action. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 205:112646. [PMID: 32791400 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Bicyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (BPAPs), the principal bioactive benzophenone products isolated from plants of genera Garcinia and Hypericum, have attracted noticeable attention from the synthetic and biological communities due to their fascinating chemical structures and promising biological activities. However, the potential drug interaction, undesired physiochemical properties and toxicity have limited their potential use and development. In the last decade, pharmaceutical research on the structural modifications, structure-activity relationships (SARs) and mechanisms of action of BPAPs has been greatly developed to overcome the challenges. A comprehensive review of these scientific literature is extremely needed to give an overview of the rapidly emerging area and facilitate research related to BPAPs. This review, containing over 226 references, covers the progress made in the chemical synthesis-based structure modifications, SARs and the mechanism of action of BPAPs in vivo and vitro. The most relevant articles will focus on the discovery of lead compounds via synthetic modifications and the important BPAPs for which the direct targets have been deciphered. From this review, several key points of the SARs and mode of actions of this novel class of compounds have been summarized. The perspective and future direction of the research on BPAPs are concluded. This review would be helpful to get a better grasp of medicinal research of BPAPs and become a compelling guide for chemists dedicated to the synthesis of these compounds.
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Masiello P, Novelli M, Beffy P, Menegazzi M. Can Hypericum perforatum (SJW) prevent cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients? Phytother Res 2020; 34:1471-1473. [PMID: 32501634 PMCID: PMC7300500 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pellegrino Masiello
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michela Novelli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Marta Menegazzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, School of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Fallahi P, Ferrari SM, Ragusa F, Ruffilli I, Elia G, Paparo SR, Antonelli A. Th1 Chemokines in Autoimmune Endocrine Disorders. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5683662. [PMID: 31863667 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The CXC chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its chemokines CXCL10, CXCL9, and CXCL11 are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we review these chemokines in autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), Graves disease (GD), thyroid eye disease (TED), type 1 diabetes (T1D), and Addison's disease (AAD). EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A PubMed review of the literature was conducted, searching for the above-mentioned chemokines in combination with AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Thyroid follicular cells in AT and GD, retroorbital cells in TED (fibroblasts, preadipocytes, myoblasts), β cells and islets in T1D, and adrenal cells in AAD respond to interferon-γ (IFN-γ) stimulation producing large amounts of these chemokines. Furthermore, lymphocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) are in part responsible for the secreted Th1 chemokines. In AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD, the circulating levels of these chemokines have been shown to be high. Furthermore, these chemokines have been associated with the early phases of the autoimmune response in all the above-mentioned disorders. High levels of these chemokines have been associated also with the "active phase" of the disease in GD, and also in TED. Other studies have shown an association with the severity of hypothyroidism in AD, of hyperthyroidism in GD, with severity of TED, or with fulminant T1D. CONCLUSION The reviewed data have shown the importance of the Th1 immune response in different endocrine autoimmune diseases, and many studies have suggested that CXCR3 and its chemokines might be considered as potential targets of new drugs for the treatment of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Ruffilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Nicolussi S, Drewe J, Butterweck V, Meyer Zu Schwabedissen HE. Clinical relevance of St. John's wort drug interactions revisited. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:1212-1226. [PMID: 31742659 PMCID: PMC7056460 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The first clinically relevant reports of preparations of St. John's wort (SJW), a herbal medicine with anti‐depressant effects, interacting with other drugs, altering their bioavailability and efficacy, were published about 20 years ago. In 2000, a pharmacokinetic interaction between SJW and cyclosporine caused acute rejection in two heart transplant patients. Since then, subsequent research has shown that SJW altered the pharmacokinetics of drugs such as digoxin, tacrolimus, indinavir, warfarin, alprazolam, simvastatin, or oral contraceptives. These interactions were caused by pregnane‐X‐receptor (PXR) activation. Preparations of SJW are potent activators of PXR and hence inducers of cytochrome P450 enzymes (most importantly CYP3A4) and P‐glycoprotein. The degree of CYP3A4 induction correlates significantly with the hyperforin content in the preparation. Twenty years after the first occurrence of clinically relevant pharmacokinetic drug interactions with SJW, this review revisits the current knowledge of the mechanisms of action and on how pharmacokinetic drug interactions with SJW could be avoided. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on The Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.6/issuetoc
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Nicolussi
- Medical Research, Max Zeller Söhne AG, Romanshorn, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Drewe
- Medical Research, Max Zeller Söhne AG, Romanshorn, Switzerland
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Ad’hiah AH, Ibraheem RM, Abbood KW. Modulation of cytokine production from cultured mononuclear cells of leukemia patients by Hypericum triquetrifolium Turra methanolic extract. ARAB JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/25765299.2018.1449413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ali H. Ad’hiah
- Tropical-Biological Research Unit, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Khulood W. Abbood
- College of Applied Biotechnology, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
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Novelli M, Beffy P, Gregorelli A, Porozov S, Mascia F, Vantaggiato C, Masiello P, Menegazzi M. Persistence of STAT-1 inhibition and induction of cytokine resistance in pancreatic β cells treated with St John's wort and its component hyperforin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 71:93-103. [PMID: 28990659 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES St John's wort extract (SJW) and its component hyperforin (HPF) were shown to potently inhibit cytokine-induced STAT-1 and NF-κB activation in pancreatic β cells and protect them against injury. This study aimed at exploring the time course of STAT-1 inhibition afforded by these natural compounds in the β-cell line INS-1E. METHODS INS-1E cells were pre-incubated with SJW extract (2-5 μg/ml) or HPF (0.5-2 μm) and then exposed to a cytokine mixture. In some experiments, these compounds were added after or removed before cytokine exposure. STAT-1 activation was assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, apoptosis by caspase-3 activity assay, mRNA gene expression by RT-qPCR. KEY FINDINGS Pre-incubation with SJW/HPF for 1-2 h exerted a remarkable STAT-1 downregulation, which was maintained upon removal of the compounds before early or delayed cytokine addition. When the protective compounds were added after cell exposure to cytokines, between 15 and 90 min, STAT-1 inhibition also occurred at a progressively decreasing extent. Upon 24-h incubation, SJW and HPF counteracted cytokine-induced β-cell dysfunction, apoptosis and target gene expression. CONCLUSIONS SJW and HPF confer to β cells a state of 'cytokine resistance', which can be elicited both before and after cytokine exposure and safeguards these cells from deleterious cytokine effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Novelli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alex Gregorelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Svetlana Porozov
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Vantaggiato
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Masiello
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Menegazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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St. John’s wort extract and hyperforin inhibit multiple phosphorylation steps of cytokine signaling and prevent inflammatory and apoptotic gene induction in pancreatic β cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 81:92-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Stage TB, Damkier P, Christensen MMH, Nielsen LBK, Højlund K, Brøsen K. Impaired Glucose Tolerance in Healthy Men Treated with St. John's Wort. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2015; 118:219-24. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tore Bjerregaard Stage
- Clinical Pharmacology; Department of Public Health; University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
| | - Per Damkier
- Clinical Pharmacology; Department of Public Health; University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology; Odense University Hospital; Odense Denmark
| | - Mette Marie Hougaard Christensen
- Clinical Pharmacology; Department of Public Health; University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology; Odense University Hospital; Odense Denmark
| | | | - Kurt Højlund
- Department of Endocrinology; Odense University Hospital; Odense Denmark
| | - Kim Brøsen
- Clinical Pharmacology; Department of Public Health; University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
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Stage TB, Pedersen RS, Damkier P, Christensen MMH, Feddersen S, Larsen JT, Højlund K, Brøsen K. Intake of St John's wort improves the glucose tolerance in healthy subjects who ingest metformin compared with metformin alone. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 79:298-306. [PMID: 25223504 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Our objective was to investigate the steady-state pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interaction between the antidepressive herbal medicine St John's wort and the antidiabetic drug metformin. METHODS We performed an open cross-over study in 20 healthy male subjects, who received 1 g of metformin twice daily for 1 week with and without 21 days of preceding and concomitant treatment with St John's wort. The pharmacokinetics of metformin was determined, and a 2 h oral glucose tolerance test was performed. RESULTS St John's wort decreased the renal clearance of metformin but did not affect any other metformin pharmacokinetic parameter. The addition of St John's wort decreased the area under the glucose concentration-time curve [702 (95% confidence interval, 643-761) vs. 629 min*mmol/L (95% confidence interval, 568-690), P = 0.003], and this effect was caused by a statistically significant increase in the acute insulin response. CONCLUSIONS St John's wort improves glucose tolerance by enhancing insulin secretion independently of insulin sensitivity in healthy male subjects taking metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tore Bjerregaard Stage
- Research Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Schmidt M, Butterweck V. The mechanisms of action of St. John’s wort: an update. Wien Med Wochenschr 2015; 165:229-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s10354-015-0372-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Friedland K, Harteneck C. Hyperforin: To Be or Not to Be an Activator of TRPC(6). Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 169:1-24. [DOI: 10.1007/112_2015_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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