Methanolic extract of Ephedra ciliata promotes wound healing and arrests inflammatory cascade in vivo through downregulation of TNF-α

Phytochemical and biological studies of Panicum antidotale aerial parts ethanol extract supported by molecular docking study

Panicum antidotale has traditionally been used as a poultice to alleviate local inflammation and painful diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, analgesic, and antipyretic potential of its ethanol extract (PAAPEE) in vivo for the first time. In vitro antioxidant assays of Panicum antidotale using a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay revealed that it showed IC50 of 62.50 ± 6.85 μg/mL in contrast to standard, ascorbic acid, that showed IC50 of 85.51 ± 0.38 μg/mL. Administration of PAAPEE at a dose of 500 mg/kg (PAAPEE-500) displayed 78.44% and 75.13% inhibition of paw edema in carrageenen and histamine-induced edema models. respectively, 6 h post-treatment compared to that of the untreated group. Furthermore, it showed 68.78% inhibition of Freund's complete adjuvant-induced edema 21 days after treatment. It reduced the animal's rectal temperature in the yeast-induced fever model to 99.45 during the fourth h post-treatment. It significantly inhibited abnormal writhing by 44% in the acetic acid-induced pain model. PAE-500 also showed enhancement in wound closure by 72.52% with respect to that of the untreated group on the 10th day post-treatment using the excision healing of wound model. Histopathological examination of skin samples confirmed this improvement, showing enhanced tissue architecture with minimal infiltration of inflammatory cells. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of PAAPEE revealed the presence of quercetin, gallic, p-coumaric, benzoic, chlorogenic, syringic, ferulic, cinnamic, and sinapic acids. Molecular docking of 5-lipoxygenase and glycogen synthase kinase-3 β protein indicated their potential interaction within the active sites of both enzymes. Thus, P. antidotale serves as an effective natural wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic agent.

Network Pharmacology Study on Herb Pair Bletilla striata-Galla chinensis in the Treatment of Chronic Skin Ulcers

BACKGROUND

Herb pair Bletilla striata-Galla chinensis (BS-GC) is a classic combination of topical traditional Chinese medicine formulae in the treatment of chronic skin ulcers (CSUs).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to explore the effective active ingredients of BS-GC, as well as the core targets and signal transduction pathways of its action on CSUs.

METHODS

The ingredients of BS-GC were obtained from TCMSP and HERB databases. The targets of all active ingredients were retrieved from the SwissTargetPrediction database. The targets of CSUs were obtained from OMIM, GeneCards, Drugbank, and DisGeNET databases. A drug-disease target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to select the most core targets, and an herb-ingredient-target network was built by utilizing Cytoscape 3.7.2. Furthermore, we performed Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database (KEGG) analysis and verified the results of network pharmacology through molecular docking.

RESULTS

A total of 40 active ingredients from the herb pair BS-GC were initially screened, and a total of 528 targets were retrieved. Meanwhile, the total number of CSU targets was 1032. Then, the number of common targets between BS-GC and CSUs was 107. The 13 core targets of herb pair BS-GC with CSUs were filtered out according to the PPI network, including AKT1, TNF, EGFR, BCL2, HIF1A, MMP-9, etc. The 5 main core active ingredients were 1-(4-Hydroxybenzyl)-2-methoxy-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-4,7-diol, 1-(4- Hydroxybenzyl)-4-methoxy-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-2,7-diol, physcion, dihydromyricetin, and myricetin. The main biological processes were inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune response, involving the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, and calcium signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed good binding activity between the 5 main core active ingredients and 13 core targets.

CONCLUSION

This study predicted the core targets and signal transduction pathways in the treatment of CSUs to provide a reference for further molecular mechanism research.

Carboxymethyl Chitosan Hydrogels for Effective Wound Healing-An Animal Study

Hydrogels have various applications in medicine, for example, in systems for controlled drug release or as wound dressings, where they provide an appropriate environment for healing and constitute a barrier to microorganisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the action of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) hydrogels in wound healing therapy in vivo using a laboratory rat model. The hydrogels were formed from aqueous solutions of a CMCS biopolymer via electron beam irradiation, with the presence of a crosslinking agent of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate. A histopathological examination of injured tissue, using a model of a hard-to-heal wound, indicated that the CMCS hydrogel supported healing. The new gel dressing, being noncytotoxic, presents great potential in wound treatment, with positive effects on the amount of inflammatory infiltration, young collagen formation, and the degree of epidermalization. A key advantage of the current approach (i.e., using competitive radiation technology for synthesis) is that it includes only one step, with the product being sterilized as it is synthesized. The hydrogel effectively supports wound healing and can serve as a bio-based and biodegradable platform for other medical applications.

Investigating the active chemical constituents and pharmacology of Nanocnide lobata in the treatment of burn and scald injuries

OBJECTIVE

To identify the most effective fraction of Nanocnide lobata in the treatment of burn and scald injuries and determine its bioactive constituents.

METHODS

Chemical identification methods were used to analyze solutions extracted from Nanocnide lobata using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol using a variety of color reactions. The chemical constituents of the extracts were identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)-mass spectrometry (MS). A total of 60 female mice were randomly divided into the following 6 groups: the petroleum ether extract-treated group; the ethyl acetate extract-treated group; the n-butanol extract-treated group; the model group; the control group; and the positive drug group. The burn/scald model was established using Stevenson's method. At 24 hours after modeling, 0.1 g of the corresponding ointment was evenly applied to the wound in each group. Mice in the model group did not undergo treatment, while those in the control group received 0.1 g of Vaseline. Wound characteristics, including color, secretions, hardness, and swelling, were observed and recorded. Photos were taken and the wound area calculated on the 1st, 5th, 8th, 12th, 15th, 18th and 21st days. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was utilized to observe the wound tissue of mice on the 7th, 14th, and 21st days. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit was used to measure the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1.

RESULTS

The chemical constituents of Nanocnide lobata mainly include volatile oils, coumarins, and lactones. UPLC-MS analysis revealed 39 main compounds in the Nanocnide lobata extract. Among them, ferulic acid, kaempferitrin, caffeic acid, and salicylic acid have been confirmed to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity related to the treatment of burns and scalds. HE staining revealed a gradual decrease in the number of inflammatory cells and healing of the wounds with increasing time after Nanocnide lobata extract administration. Compared with the model group, the petroleum ether extract-treated group showed significant differences in the levels of TNF-α (161.67±4.93, 106.33±3.21, 77.67±4.04 pg/mL) and IL-10 (291.77±4.93, 185.09±9.54, 141.33±1.53 pg/mL) on the 7th, 14th, and 21st days; a significant difference in the content of TGF-β1 (75.68±3.06 pg/mL) on the 21st day; and a significant difference in the level of VEGF (266.67±4.73, 311.33±10.50 pg/mL) on the 7th and 14th days respectively.

CONCLUSION

Petroleum ether Nanocnide lobata extract and the volatile oil compounds of Nanocnide lobata might be effective drugs in the treatment of burn and scald injuries, as they exhibited a protective effect on burns and scalds by reducing the expression of TNF-α, IL-10 and TGF-β1 and increasing the expression of VEGF. In addition, these compounds may also exert pharmacological effects that promote wound tissue repair, accelerate wound healing, and reduce scar tissue proliferation, inflammation and pain.

Role of medicinal herbs and phytochemicals in post burn management

Burn management is a natural and distinctly programmed process involving overlapping phases of hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodeling. Burn wound healing involves initiation of inflammation, re-epithelialization, granulation, neovascularization and wound contraction. Despite the availability of multiple preparations for management of burn wound, there is dire need for efficacious alternative agents. Current approaches for burn wound management include pharmaceutical agents and antibiotics. However, high cost of synthetic drugs and accelerated resistance to antibiotics is challenging for both developed and developing nations. Among alternative options, medicinal plants have been a biocompatible, safe and affordable source of preventive/curative approaches. Due to cultural acceptance and patient compliance, there has been a focus on the use of botanical drugs and phytochemicals for burn wound healing. Keeping in consideration of medicinal herbs and phytochemicals as suitable therapeutic/adjuvant agents for burn wound management, this review highlights therapeutic potential of 35 medicinal herbs and 10 phytochemicals. Among these, Elaeis guineensis, Ephedra ciliate and Terminalia avicennioides showed better burn wound healing potential with varied mechanisms such as modulation of TNF-alpha, inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide, eicosanoids, ROS and leukocyte response. Phytochemicals (oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, kirenol) also showed promising role in burn wound management though various pathways involving such as down regulation of TNF-alpha, IL-6 and inflammatory mediators including plasma proteases and arachidonic acid metabolites. This review provides a pavement for therapeutic/adjuvant use of potential botanical drugs and novel druggable phyto-compounds to target skin burn injury with diverse mechanisms, affordability and safety profile.

The wound healing effect of botanicals and pure natural substances used in in vivo models

Repairing the wound is a multistep process that includes the spatial and temporal synchronization of a different range of cell types to increase the speed of wound contraction, the proliferation of epithelial cells, and collagen formation. The need for proper management of acute wounds to be cured and not turned into chronic wounds is a significant clinical challenge. The traditional practice of medicinal plants in many regions of the world has been used in wound healing since ancient times. Recent scientific research introduced evidence of the efficacy of medicinal plants, their phyto-components, and the mechanisms underlying their wound-repairing activity. This review aims to briefly highlight the wound-curing effect of different plant extracts and purely natural substances in excision, incision, and burn experimental animal models with or without infection of mice, rats (diabetic and nondiabetic), and rabbits in the last 5 years. The in vivo studies represented reliable evidence of how powerful natural products are in healing wounds properly. They have good scavenging activity against Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that help in the process of wound healing. It is evident that incorporating bioactive natural products into wound dressings of bio- or synthetic polymers in nanofiber, hydrogel, film, scaffold, and sponge forms showed promising results in different phases of the wound-curing process of haemostasis, inflammation, growth, re-epithelialization, and remodelling.

Current research on fungi in chronic wounds

The occurrence of chronic wounds is a major global health issue. These wounds are difficult to heal as a result of disordered healing mechanisms. The most common types of chronic wounds are diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, arterial/venous ulcers and nonhealing surgical wounds. Although bacteria are an important cause of chronic nonhealing wounds, fungi also play a substantial role in them. The fungal infection rate varies with different chronic wound types, but overall, the prevalence of fungi is extremely underestimated in the clinical treatment and management of chronic wounds. Wounds and ulcers can be colonized by host cutaneous, commensal or environmental fungi and evolve into local infections, causing fungemia as well as invasive fungal disease. Furthermore, the fungi involved in nonhealing wound-related infections help commensal bacteria resist antibiotics and the host immune response, forcing wounds to become reservoirs for multiresistant species, which are considered a potential key factor in the microbial bioburden of wounds and ulcers. Fungi can be recalcitrant to the healing process. Biofilm establishment is the predominant mechanism of fungal resistance or tolerance to antimicrobials in chronic nonhealing wounds. Candida albicans yeast and Trichophyton rubrum filamentous fungi are the main fungi involved in chronic wound infection. Fungal species diversity and drug resistance phenotypes in different chronic nonhealing wound types will be emphasized. In this review, we outline the latest research on fungi in chronic wounds and discuss challenges and future perspectives related to diagnosing and managing chronic wounds.

Metabolic Profiling and Investigation of the Modulatory Effect of Fagonia cretica L. Aerial Parts on Hepatic CYP3A4 and UGT2B7 Enzymes in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Model

Drug-metabolizing enzymes are either boosted or suppressed by diabetes mellitus. This research was designed to explore Fagonia cretica L. aerial parts' impact on CYP3A4 and UGT2B7 activity and their mRNA expression in diabetic rats. Fagonia cretica (F. cretica) dried powder was sequentially extracted with n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water. The methanol extract and aqueous fraction presented the most significant potential to decrease the concentration of alpha-hydroxyl midazolam, with 176.0 ± 0.85 mg/Kg and 182.9 ± 0.99 mg/Kg, respectively, compared to the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic group, reflecting the inhibition in CYP3A4 activity. The fold change in mRNA expression of CYP3A4 was decreased significantly by the methanol extract, and the aqueous fraction of F. cretica estimated by 0.15 ± 0.002 and 0.16 ± 0.001, respectively, compared with the diabetic group. Morphine metabolism was significantly increased in rats treated with F. cretica methanol extract and its aqueous fraction, displaying 93.4 ± 0.96 mg/Kg and 96.4 ± 1.27 mg/Kg, respectively, compared with the metabolism of morphine in the diabetic group, which highlights the induction of UGT2B7 activity. The fold change in mRNA expression of UGT2B7 was significantly increased by the methanol extract and the aqueous fraction, estimated at 8.14 ± 0.26 and 7.17 ± 0.23 respectively, compared to the diabetic group. Phytochemical analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), where the methanol extract showed more flavonoids and phenolic compounds compared to the aqueous fraction of F. cretica. The obtained results were further consolidated by molecular docking studies, where quercetin showed the best fitting within the active pocket of CYP3A4, followed by gallic acid, displaying free binding energies (∆G) of -30.83 and -23.12 kcal/mol, respectively. Thus, F. cretica could serve as a complementary medicine with standard anti-diabetic therapy that can modulate the activity of the drug-metabolizing enzymes.

Anti-inflammatory effect of simvastatin by impeding TNF-α and interleukin-1ß pathways: antiangiogenic activity of simvastatin and simvastatin-loaded silver nanoparticles

PURPOSE

The present study was carried out to evaluate anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic attributes of simvastatin and its nanofilms containing silver nanoparticles.

METHODS

Silver nanoparticles and simvastatin-loaded nanocomposite (SNSN) films were formulated by using polymeric solution (pectin + sericin) through casting solution method. Different in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory assays were performed. In addition, chick chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) was also employed for angiogenesis activity.

RESULTS

FTIR spectra of the film depicted the presence of intact simvastatin. Differential scanning calorimetry exhibited no endothermic expression in F9 film thermogram. The simvastatin release from all films exhibited a burst effect. Cotton-pellet induced granuloma model study showed that high dose of simvastatin and indomethacin produced comparable (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory effect. Noteworthy, RT-PCR showed dose-dependent, anti-oedematous effect of simvastatin through downregulation of serum TNF-α and interleukin-1ß levels. While results of CAM assay exhibited remarkable anti-angiogenic potential of SNSN films showing dissolved blood vessels network macroscopically.

CONCLUSION

To reiterate, simvastatin and its SNSN films can add significant contribution to the field of biomedicines due to their promising anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties, however, clinical studies are required to validate their commercial use.

Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel fruits extract attenuated acute and chronic inflammation through modulation of the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in rat models

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of polyarticular tissues, characterised by progressive synovitis. Its prolonged treatment imparts a huge burden on the healthcare system and results in toxicity, which necessitates the search for safe, efficacious and cost-effective therapies. Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel is traditionally used for anti-inflammatory purposes; however, to the best of our knowledge, there is no detailed study reporting the in vivo anti-inflammatory potential of this plant. Therefore, in the current study, the methanol extract of D. malabarica (Desr.) Kostel fruit (mDMF) was evaluated for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potentials, along with its underlying mechanisms. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH assay. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were estimated via colorimetric and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods. Different doses (250, 500 and 750 mg/kg) of mDMF were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis actions in acute inflammatory (carrageenan and histamine-induced paw oedema) and Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis rat models. Levels of various pro- and anti-inflammatory biomarkers were estimated using ELISA and RT-PCR techniques. Paw samples were used for different histopathological and radiographic studies. Qualitative phytochemical and HPLC analyses indicated the presence of various polyphenolic compounds in mDMF, which exhibited marked antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay. mDMF showed time-dependent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects in in vivo models. ELISA assay data showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the serum levels of C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor in the mDMF treatment groups. RT-PCR data showed significant (p < 0.05) down-regulation of various pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α, NF-κB, COX-2, IL-1β and IL-6) and up-regulation of anti-inflammatory markers (IκB, IL-4 and IL-10) in serum samples of rats treated with mDMF. The histopathology of the ankle joints showed reduced pannus formation, joint swelling and synovial hyperplasia in mDMF-treated animals when compared with the untreated disease control group. Overall, it may be concluded that the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis properties of mDMF are due to its flavonoid and phenolic constituents. Further studies using a stable oral dosage form of D. malabarica (Desr.) Kostel fruits extract are warranted to explore its effects in other inflammatory disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, appendicitis and hepatitis.

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Angiogenic Aattributes of Moringa olifera Lam. and its Nanoclay-Based Pectin-Sericin films

Background: Inflammation is a strong reaction of the non-specific natural immune system that helps to start protective responses against encroaching pathogens and develop typical immunity against intruding factors. However, prolonged inflammation may lead to chronic autoimmune diseases. For thousands of years, medicinal plants have served as an excellent source of treatment for chronic pathologies such as metabolic diseases.

Purpose: The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic potential of Moringa olifera Lam. extract (MO) and Moringa-loaded nanoclay films.

Methods: The extract preparation was done through the maceration technique using absolute methanol (99.7%) and labelled as Mo. Me. Mo. Me-loaded nanoclay-based films were prepared by using pectin and sericin (Table 1). The in vitro studies characterized the film thickness, moisture, and phytochemical contents. The in vivo anti-inflammatory tests involved using a cotton pellet-induced granuloma model assay. In addition, the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay was employed for angiogenesis activity.

Results: The phytochemical analysis of the extract confirmed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids and phytosterol. This extract contained quercetin in a large quantity. Cotton-pellet induced granuloma model study revealed a comparable (p > 0.05) effect of a high dose of Mo. Me (500 mg/kg) as compared with standard drug. Noteworthy, data obtained through the RT-PCR technique manifested the dose-dependent anti-oedematous effect of Moringa olifera via downregulation of TNF-α and interleukin-1ß. The findings of the CAM assay exhibited a remarkable anti-angiogenic activity of Mo. Me loaded nanoclay films, showing diffused vasculature network in the macroscopic snapshot.

Conclusion:Moringa olifera and its nanocomposite films have therapeutic potential against inflammation.

Potential Molecular Mechanisms of Ephedra Herb in the Treatment of Nephrotic Syndrome Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Objective

To explore the possible mechanisms of Ephedra herb (EH) in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS) by using network pharmacology and molecular docking in this study.

Methods

Active ingredients and related targets of EH were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and the gene names corresponding to the proteins were found through the UniProt database. Then, target genes related to NS were screened out from GeneCards, PharmGKB, and OMIM databases. Next, the intersection targets were obtained successfully through Venn diagram, which were also seen as key target genes of EH and NS. Cytoscape 3.9.0 software was used to construct the effective “active ingredient-target” network diagram, and “drug-ingredient-target-disease (D-I-T-D)” network diagram. After that, the STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment involved in the targets were performed by the DAVID database and ClueGO plugin in Cytoscape. Finally, AutoDockTools software was used for molecular docking to verify the binding strength between main active ingredients and key target proteins.

Results

A total of 22 main active ingredients such as quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, and naringenin were obtained, which could act on 105 targets related to NS. Through PPI network, 53 core targets such as AKT1, TNF, IL6, VEGFA, and IL1B were found, which might play a crucial role in the treatment of NS. Meanwhile, these targets were significantly involved in PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, hepatitis B, and pathways in cancer through GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. The docking results indicated that active ingredients such as kaempferol, luteolin, quercetin, and naringenin all had good binding to the target protein AKT1 or TNF. Among them, luteolin and naringenin binding with AKT1 showed the best binding energy (-6.2 kcal/mol).

Conclusion

This study indicated that the potential mechanism of EH in treating NS may be related to PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, which provided better approaches for exploring the mechanism in treating NS and new ideas for further in vivo and in vitro experimental verifications.

Exploration of molecular mechanisms responsible for anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic attributes of methanolic extract of Viola betonicifolia

Uncontrolled inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Currently available anti-inflammatory agents on prolonged use may lead to ulcers or thrombus formation. The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and anti-angiogenic potentials of methanol extract of Viola betonicifolia using battery of in vivo models. Methanol extract of Viola betonicifolia (Vb.Me) was prepared through maceration. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography mass spectrometery (GC-MS) were performed to identify bioactive compounds present in Vb.Me. In vivo safety profile of Vb.Me was evaluated following OECD 425 acute toxicity guidelines. Anti-inflammatory potential of Vb.Me at three different dose levels was evaluated in in vivo acute (carrageenan and, histamine-induced paw oedema), sub-chronic (cotton pellet-induced granuloma) and chronic (Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis) models. Blood and paws samples were collected to study effects of Vb.Me treatment on the expression of various pro- and anti-inflammatory genes (RT-PCR) and to study the histopathological changes at tissue levels. Effects of Vb.Me on neovasculature development were studied in ex-ovo chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Quercetin and n-hexadecanoic were identified as one of the major bioactive molecules in HPLC and GC-MS analysis of Vb.Me. Toxicity data revealed that Vb.Me was safe for administration up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg. Findings of inflammatory models showed that Vb.Me produced time and dose-dependent effects. 500 mg/kg Vb.Me showed significantly (p < 0.05) better effects as compared with 125 and 250 mg/kg. 500 mg/kg Vb.Me also showed comparable anti-inflammatory effects with indomethacin in both acute and chronic models respectively. RT-PCR data exhibited significant (p < 0.05) down-regulation of IL-6, IL-1ß, NF-kß, TNF-α and COX-2 genes with simultaneous up-regulation of IL-4 and IL-10 genes in the blood samples of animals treated with 500 mg/kg of Vb.Me and 10 mg/kg of indomethacin respectively. CAM assay data revealed arrest of microvessel outgrowth in Vb.Me-treated eggs. Altogether, findings of the current study indicate that Vb.Me exerts in vivo anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects through regulation of expression of various pro- and anti-inflammatory genes. Synergist actions of various bioactive molecules in Vb.Me are proposed to be responsible for these attributes. However, further studies to standardize the extract and evaluation of its potential in various inflammation-induced diseases are warranted.

RP-HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS Qualitative Profiling, Antioxidant, Anti-Enzymatic, Anti-Inflammatory, and Non-Cytotoxic Properties of Ephedra alata Monjauzeana

An investigation was conducted to study the beneficial effects of Ephedra alata monjauzeana crude extract (EamCE). The chemical profile was determined using RP-HPLC–ESI-QTOF-MS analysis, revealing the presence of twenty-one flavonoids and phenolic acids. A series of antioxidant assays was carried out using ten different methods. The EamCE has demonstrated a significant antioxidant potential, with interesting IC₅₀ values not exceeding 40 µg/mL in almost activities. Likewise, a significant inhibition of key enzymes, involved in some health issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, hyperpigmentation, dermatological disorders, gastric/urinary bacterial infections, and obesity, was observed for the first time. The IC₅₀ values ranged from 22.46 to 54.93. The anti-inflammatory and non-cytotoxic activities were assessed by heat-induced hemolysis and cell culture methods, respectively; the EamCE has shown a prominent effect in both tests, notably for the anti-inflammatory effect that was superior to the reference compound “diclofenac” (IC₅₀: 71.03 ± 1.38 > 70.23 ± 0.99 (µg/mL)). According to these results, this plant could be used in a large spectrum as a food supplement, as a natural remedy for various physiological disorders and pathologies; and it might serve as a preventive and health care agent.

Molecular Mechanisms Responsible for In Vitro Cytotoxic Attributes of Conyza bonariensis Extract against Lymphoblastic Leukaemia Jurkat Cells

BACKGROUND

Conyza bonariensis is known to have anti-cancer properties.

OBJECTIVE

The study investigated the in vitro pro-apoptotic properties of Conyza bonariensis (C. bonariensis) towards human lymphoblastic leukemia Jurkat cells.

METHODS

C. bonariensis are extracted with non-polar solvent by maceration. MTS cell viability assay was employed to determine the cytotoxic activity of the extract towards human leukemia Jurket cells and normal Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) cells. The phytochemical composition of the extract was chemically characterized using HPLC. Flow cytometric studies (FACS) were conducted to explore the pro-apoptotic potential of the extract. Western blot studies were employed to identify the molecular targets involved in the induction of apoptosis.

RESULTS

The n-hexane extract showed selective cytotoxic activity towards Jurkat cells. FACS analysis indicated that the extract induced early and late apoptosis in Jurkat cells. Western blot studies revealed that the extract down-regulated the expression of DNMT1, SIRT1, and UHRF1 with a simultaneous up-regulation of the expression of p73 and caspases-3 proteins. HPLC characterization of the extract revealed the presence of phenolic compounds.

CONCLUSION

Overall these findings demonstrate that the anticancer effects of a Conyza bonariensis extract towards human lymphoblastic leukemiais due to the modulation of the activity of multiple oncogenic and tumor suppressor proteins and that its phenolic content is involved are proposed to be responsible for these activities.

Raphanus Sativus Seeds OilArrested In Vivo Inflammation and Angiogenesis Through Down-Regulation of TNF-a

BACKGROUND

Raphanus sativus is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory agent.

OBJECTIVES

The current study was designed to explore the in vivo anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties of Raphanus sativus seeds oil.

METHODS

Cold press method was used for the extraction of oil (RsSO) and was characterised using GC-MS techniques. Three in vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) were performed to explore antioxidant potential of RsSO. Disc diffusion methods were used to study in vitro antimicrobial properties. In vivo anti-inflammatory properties were studied in both acute and chronic inflammation models. In ovo chicken, a chorioallantoic membrane assay was performed to study antiangiogenic effects. Molecular mechanisms were identified using serum TNF-α ELISA kit and docking tools.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis of RsSO revealed the presence of hexadecanoic and octadecanoic acid. Findings of DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP models indicated relatively moderate radical scavenging properties of RsSO. Oil showed antimicrobial activity against a variety of strains tested. Data of inflammation models showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory effects of RsSO in both acute and chronic models. 500 mg/kg RsSO halted inflammation development significantly better (p < 0.05) as compared with lower doses. Histopathological evaluations of paws showed minimal infiltration of inflammatory cells in RsSO-treated animals. Findings of TNF-α ELSIA and docking studies showed that RsSO has the potential to downregulate the expression of TNF-α, iNOS, ROS, and NF-κB, respectively. Moreover, RsSO showed in vivo antiangiogenic effects.

CONCLUSION

Data of the current study highlight that Raphanus sativus seeds oil has anti-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic properties and can be used as an adjunct to standard NSAIDs therapy to reduce its dose and side effects.

Trigonella foenum-graecum Seeds Oil Attenuated Inflammation and Angiogenesis in vivo through Down-Regulation of TNF-α

INTRODUCTION

Inflammation is a vital reaction of the natural immune system that protects against encroaching agents. However, uncontrolled inflammation can lead to complications. Trigonella foenumgraecum is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory herb.

OBJECTIVES

The current study was conducted to explore the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic potentials of Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds oil.

METHODS

Oil was extracted from seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum by cold press method and labelled as TgSO. Phytochemical (GC-MS, Folin-Ciocalteu method) and metal analyses were conducted to evaluate the metalo-chemical profile of TgSO. In vitro antioxidant assays (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2'-azino-bis-3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid and ferric reducing antioxidant power) were performed to assess its antioxidant potential. In vitro antimicrobial activity was evaluated using agar disc diffusion method and the safety profile of TgSO was assessed in acute toxicological studies following OECD 425 guidelines. In vivo antiinflammatory activities of TgSO were assessed in carrageenan, serotonin, histamine, formalin, and cotton pelletinduced oedema models. Serum TNF-α, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and, Catalases (CAT) levels were assessed by ELISA kits. In vivo antiangiogenic activity of TgSO was screened in chick Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) assay. Histopathological studies using excised paws were conducted to observe the effects of TgSO treatment at the tissue level. In silico docking studies were conducted to screen the binding potentials of identified compounds with TNF-α.

RESULTS

Extraction by cold press method yielded 16% of TgSO. Phytochemical analysis of TgSO through GCMS showed the presence of eugenol, dihydrocoumairn, heptadecanoic acid, tri- and tetradecanoic acid, and hexadecanoic acid, respectively. Total phenolic contents of TgSO were found to be 0.30±0.01mg/g gallic acid equivalent in Folin-Ciocalteu method. Metal analysis indicated the presence of different metals in TgSO. Findings of antioxidant models showed the moderate antioxidant potential of TgSO. Findings of antimicrobial assays showed that TgSO was active against bacterial (S. aureus, S. epidermidis) and fungal (C. albicans, and A. niger) strains. In vivo toxicity study data showed that TgSO was safe up to the dose of 5000 mg/kg. Data of oedema models showed a significant (p<0.05) reduction in oedema development in TgSO treated animals in both acute and chronic models. Histopathological evaluations of paws showed minimum tissue infiltration with inflammatory cells in TgSO-treated animals. Treatment with TgSO also significantly (p<0.05) down-regulated TNF-α in serum while levels of SOD and CAT were up-regulated. Findings of the CAM assay revealed the antiangiogenic activity of TgSO. Findings of in silico docking studies showed that identified phytoconstituents can bind with culprit cytokine (TNF-α).

CONCLUSION

Data obtained from the current study conclude that TgSO has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic effects that validate its traditional uses. Synergistic actions of different phytoconstituents are proposed to be responsible for the observed effects.

Growth factor stimulation for the healing of traumatic ulcers with liquid rice hull smoke

OBJECTIVE

The healing process of a traumatic ulcer requires growth factors to rebuild the lost tissue after the inflammatory process has been completed. Liquid rice hull smoke (LR-HS) has shown unique anti-inflammatory properties. This study analyses the role of LR-HS in growth factor stimulation for the healing of traumatic ulcers, such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and collagen type 1 (COL-1) expression.

METHODS

We obtained LR-HS from the pyrolysis of rice hulls. Traumatic ulcers were created in the labial fornix incisive inferior of Wistar rats and treated with LR-HS once a day for 3, 5, and 7 days. The control group was treated with sterile water. Each animal was sacrificed after treatment, and its labial fornix incisive inferior tissues were biopsied and immunohistochemically stained to examine FGF, VEGF, PDGF, and COL-1 expression.

RESULT

The treatment of traumatic ulcers with LR-HS showed an increase in FGF, VEGF, PDGF, and COL-1 expression. VEGF expression increased under LR-HS treatment compared with the control 7-day treatment groups (p < 0.000). FGF and COL-1 expression increased under LR-HS treatment compared with the control 5- and 7-day treatment groups (p < 0.000). PDGF expression increased after treatment with LR-HS for 3, 5, and 7 days (p < 0.000).

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that LR-HS can induce the expression of growth factors during the healing of a traumatic ulcer using immunohistochemical staining. We suggest that LR-HS can be used as a herbal medicine for oral ulcer therapy.

Burn Ointment Promotes Cutaneous Wound Healing by Modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway

Burn ointment (BO) is a clinically useful medicine for the treatment of burns and scalds. However, there is no enough scientific evidence to report the effect of BO on wound healing and its analgesic and anti-inflammatory efficacy. The aim of this work was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic efficacy of BO and to reveal the potential wound healing properties and related mechanisms of BO. In this work, the content of active ingredients of BO was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Two animal models of inflammation were used to study its anti-inflammatory activity, and a hot plate method was used to evaluate its analgesic effect. In addition, mouse incision and rat burn models were used to investigate the effect of BO on the anti-inflammatory and wound healing mechanisms. The results showed that BO was safe for topical application, and BO could significantly inhibit auricular swelling in mice and paw swelling in rats and significantly prolong the latency period of paw licking in the hot plate experiment in mice. It can also accelerate wound healing and repair scars by promoting the formation of new epithelial tissues in rat burn models. In addition, BO significantly downregulated the serum level of TNF-α and significantly increased the serum levels of VEGF and TGF-β1. Also, BO promoted the expression of collagen I and increased the ratio in p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, and p-mTOR/mTOR pathways. Our results demonstrate the safety and efficacy of BO and suggest that activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway may play an important role in the promotion of wound healing by BO.

3D scaffolds in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers: New trends vs conventional approaches

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, affecting roughly 25% of diabetic patients and resulting in lower limb amputation in over 70% of known cases. In addition to the devastating physiological consequences of DFU and its impact on patient quality of life, DFU has significant clinical and economic implications. Various traditional therapies are implemented to effectively treat DFU. However, emerging technologies such as bioprinting and electrospinning, present an exciting opportunity to improve current treatment strategies through the development of 3D scaffolds, by overcoming the limitations of current wound healing strategies. This review provides a summary on (i) current prevention and treatment strategies available for DFU; (ii) methods of fabrication of 3D scaffolds relevant for this condition; (iii) suitable materials and commonly used molecules for the treatment of DFU; and (iv) future directions offered by emerging technologies.

Quercetin Reverses Cardiac Systolic Dysfunction in Mice Fed with a High-Fat Diet: Role of Angiogenesis

Global consumption of high-fat diets (HFD) is associated with an increased incidence of cardiometabolic syndrome and cardiac injury, warranting identification of cardioprotective strategies. Cardioprotective effects of quercetin (Q) have mostly been evaluated in ischemic heart disease models and attributed to senolysis. We hypothesized that Q could alleviate murine cardiac damage caused by HFD by restoring the myocardial microcirculation. C57BL/6J mice were fed standard chow or HFD for 6 months and then treated with Q (50 mg/kg) or vehicle 5-day biweekly for 10 additional weeks. Left ventricular (LV) cardiac function was studied in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging, and intramyocardial fat deposition, microvascular density, oxidative stress, and senescence were analyzed ex vivo. Additionally, direct angiogenic effects of Q were studied in vitro in HUVECs. HFD increased body weight, heart weight, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, whereas Q normalized heart weight and triglycerides. LV ejection fraction was lower in HFD vs. control mice (56.20 ± 15.8% vs. 73.38 ± 5.04%, respectively, P < 0.05), but improved in HFD + Q mice (67.42 ± 7.50%, P < 0.05, vs. HFD). Q also prevented cardiac fat accumulation and reduced HFD-induced cardiac fibrosis, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, oxidative stress, and vascular rarefaction. Cardiac senescence was not observed in any group. In vitro, ox-LDL reduced HUVEC tube formation activity, which Q effectively improved. Quercetin may directly induce angiogenesis and decrease myocardial oxidative stress, which might account for its cardioprotective effects in the murine HFD-fed murine heart independently from senolytic activity. Furthermore, its beneficial effects might be partly attributed to a decrease in plasma triglycerides and intramyocardial fat deposition.

Asphodelus tenuifolius extracts arrested inflammation and arthritis through modulation of TNF-α, NF-κB, ILs, and COX-2 activities in in vivo models

Asphodelus tenuifolius is traditionally used in the management of rheumatic pain and inflamed body parts. The current study validated its traditional use as an anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory agent using a series of in vivo models. Carrageenan and histamine-induced acute oedema models were employed to study the effects of n-hexane (n-HeAT) and ethanolic (EeAT) extracts on acute inflammatory mediators and were found to inhibit oedema formation in a dose-dependent manner. Formalin and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) were injected into the hind paw of rats for the induction of arthritis. In the formalin model both n-HeAT and EeAT showed significantly better (p < 0.05) anti-oedema effects from day 6 onward. In CFA model rats were treated on 8th day of induction with extracts at the doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg respectively. Piroxicam (10 mg/kg) and normal saline (10 mL/kg) were used as positive and negative controls respectively. Both n-HeAT and EeAT significantly (p < 0.05) decreased arthritis development in a time-dependent manner and at 28th day extent of inflammation was even less than that observed at day 8. The arthritic score was measured at day 12, 16, 20, 24, and 28 and was observed to be significantly less (p < 0.05) in animals treated with 750 mg/kg of n-HeAT and EeAT, respectively. Joint inflammation (p < 0.01), bone erosion (p < 0.001) and, pannus formation (p < 0.01) were significantly declined in A. tenuifolius treatment groups. Radiographic evaluations (X-ray) were conducted to check bone integrity and extent of inflammation and were observed to be diminished at day 28 in A. tenuifolius extracts treated groups. HPLC was performed to screen the phytochemical profile of n-HeAT and EeAT and were found to contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to detect effects of n-HeAT and EeAT treatments on inflammatory markers i.e., IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, COX-2, NF-κB, and I-κB using blood samples. ELISA assays were performed for the detection of levels of C-reactive proteins, respectively. Significant downregulation of TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2, NF-κB with simultaneous upregulation of IL-10 and I-κB was observed in n-HeAT and EeAT treatment groups. ELISA assays also showed significant (p < 0.05) down-modulation in the serum levels of CRP and TNF-α. Both extracts showed relatively weak antioxidant activities as compared with ascorbic acid in in vitro assay. Based on findings of the current study it is concluded that A. tenuifolius has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects and thus has potential to be used as an adjunct to standard NSAIDs therapy.Graphic abstract.