Antioxidant Effects of Nerolidol in Mice Hippocampus After Open Field Test

Modulation of anxiety-like behavior in galactooligosaccharide-fed mice: A potential role for bacterial tryptophan metabolites and reduced microglial reactivity

Prebiotic galactooligosaccharides (GOS) reduce anxiety-like behaviors in mice and humans. However, the biological pathways behind these behavioral changes are not well understood. To begin to study these pathways, we utilized C57BL/6 mice that were fed a standard diet with or without GOS supplementation for 3 weeks prior to testing on the open field. After behavioral testing, colonic contents and serum were collected for bacteriome (16S rRNA gene sequencing, colonic contents only) and metabolome (UPLC-MS, colonic contents and serum data) analyses. As expected, GOS significantly reduced anxiety-like behavior (i.e., increased time in the center) and decreased cytokine gene expression (Tnfa and Ccl2) in the prefrontal cortex. Notably, time in the center of the open field was significantly correlated with serum methyl-indole-3-acetic acid (methyl-IAA). This metabolite is a methylated form of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) that is derived from bacterial metabolism of tryptophan. Sequencing analyses showed that GOS significantly increased Lachnospiraceae UCG006 and Akkermansia; these taxa are known to metabolize both GOS and tryptophan. To determine the extent to which methyl-IAA can affect anxiety-like behavior, mice were intraperitoneally injected with methyl-IAA. Mice given methyl-IAA had a reduction in anxiety-like behavior in the open field, along with lower Tnfa in the prefrontal cortex. Methyl-IAA was also found to reduce TNF-α (as well as CCL2) production by LPS-stimulated BV2 microglia. Together, these data support a novel pathway through which GOS reduces anxiety-like behaviors in mice and suggests that the bacterial metabolite methyl-IAA reduces microglial cytokine and chemokine production, which in turn reduces anxiety-like behavior.

Nerolidol reduces depression-like behavior in mice and suppresses microglia activation by down-regulating DNA methyltransferase 1

Modern medicine has unveiled that essential oil made from Aquilaria possesses sedative and hypnotic effects. Among the chemical components in Aquilaria, nerolidol, a natural sesquiterpene alcohol, has shown promising effects. This study aimed to unravel the potential of nerolidol in treating depression. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was utilized to induce depression-like behavior in mice, and open field test, sucrose preference, and tail suspension test was conducted. The impacts of nerolidol on the inflammatory response, microglial activation, and DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) were assessed. To study the regulatory role of DNMT1, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to treat BV2 cells, followed by the evaluation of cell viability and DNMT1 level. Additionally, the influence of DNMT1 overexpression on BV2 cell activation was determined. Behavioral analysis revealed that nerolidol reduced depression-like behavior in mice. Nerolidol reduced the levels of inflammatory factors and microglial activation caused by CUMS. Nerolidol treatment was found to reduce DNMT1 levels in mouse brain tissue and it also decrease the LPS-induced increase in DNMT1 levels in BV2 cells. DNMT1 overexpression reversed the impacts of nerolidol on the inflammation response and cell activation. This study underscores the potential of nerolidol in reducing CUMS-induced depressive-like behavior and inhibiting microglial activation by downregulating DNMT1. These findings offer valuable insights into the potential of nerolidol as a therapeutic option for depression.

The Potentiality of Natural Products and Herbal Medicine as Novel Medications for Parkinson's Disease: A Promising Therapeutic Approach

As the global population ages, the prevalence of Parkinson's disease (PD) is steadily on the rise. PD demonstrates chronic and progressive characteristics, and many cases can transition into dementia. This increases societal and economic burdens, emphasizing the need to find effective treatments. Among the widely recognized causes of PD is the abnormal accumulation of proteins, and autophagy dysfunction accelerates this accumulation. The resultant Lewy bodies are also commonly found in Alzheimer's disease patients, suggesting an increased potential for the onset of dementia. Additionally, the production of free radicals due to mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to neuronal damage and degeneration. The activation of astrocytes and the M1 phenotype of microglia promote damage to dopamine neurons. The drugs currently used for PD only delay the clinical progression and exacerbation of the disease without targeting its root cause, and come with various side effects. Thus, there is a demand for treatments with fewer side effects, with much potential offered by natural products. In this study, we reviewed a total of 14 articles related to herbal medicines and natural products and investigated their relevance to possible PD treatment. The results showed that the reviewed herbal medicines and natural products are effective against lysosomal disorder, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation, key mechanisms underlying PD. Therefore, natural products and herbal medicines can reduce neurotoxicity and might improve both motor and non-motor symptoms associated with PD. Furthermore, these products, with their multi-target effects, enhance bioavailability, inhibit antibiotic resistance, and might additionally eliminate side effects, making them good alternative therapies for PD treatment.

Helichrysum stoechas (L.) Moench reduces body weight gain and modulates mood disorders via inhibition of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) by arzanol

The prevalence of obesity is steadily rising, making safe and more efficient anti-obesity treatments an urgent medical need. Growing evidence correlates obesity and comorbidities, including anxiety and depression, with the development of a low-grade inflammation in peripheral and central tissues. We hypothesized that attenuating neuroinflammation might reduce weight gain and improve mood. We investigated the efficacy of a methanolic extract from Helichrysum stoechas (L.) Moench (HSE), well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and its main constituent arzanol (AZL). HPLC-ESI-MS2 and HPLC-UV were used to characterize the extract. HSE effects on mood and feeding behavior was assessed in mice. The mechanism of action of HSE and AZL was investigated in hippocampus samples and SH-SY5Y cells by western blotting and immunofluorescence. Oral administration of HSE for 3 weeks limited weight gain with no significant decrease in food intake. HSE produced an anxiolytic-like and antidepressant-like phenotype comparable to diazepam and amitriptyline, respectively, in the absence of locomotor and cognitive impairments and induced neuroprotective effects in glutamate-exposed SH-SY5Y cells. A dose-dependent reduction of SIRT1 expression was detected in SH-SY5Y cells and in hippocampal samples from HSE-treated mice. The inhibition of the SIRT1-FoxO1 pathway was induced in the hypothalamus. Molecular docking studies proposed a mechanism of SIRT1 inhibition by AZL, confirmed by the evaluation of inhibitory effects on SIRT1 enzymatic activity. HSE limited weight gain and comorbidities through an AZL-mediated SIRT1 inhibition. These activities indicate HSE an innovative therapeutic perspective for obesity and associated mood disorders.

A novel protective modality against rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease: A pre-clinical study with dulaglutide

Parkinson's disease (PD) drugs treat symptoms without inhibiting progression. In recent years, finding novel therapeutic medications that can halt disease progression has become crucial. Research on antidiabetic medicines is valuable in these investigations because of the parallels between the two disorders. Using Rotenone (ROT), a frequently used PD model, the possible neuroprotective benefits of Dulaglutide (DUL), an extended-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist, were considered. Twenty-four rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups to complete this experiment (n = 6). 0.2 ml of the vehicle (1 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) diluted in sunflower oil) was administered to the standard control group subcutaneously with a 48-hour pause. The second group was administered ROT 2.5 mg/kg SC every 48 h for 20 days as a positive control group. The third and fourth groups were administered one dose of DUL each week (0.05 and 0.1 mg/kg SC, respectively) to their regimens. The mice received ROT (2.5 mg/kg SC) every 48 h for 20 days after receiving DUL for the initial dose (96 h later). The current study focused on the DUL's ability to preserve usual behavioral function, enhance antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, inhibit alpha-synuclein (α-syn), and increase parkin levels. It is concluded that DUL acts as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory to protect against ROT-induced PD. However, more studies are required to support this finding.

GC-MS analysis and pharmacological evaluations of Phoenix sylvestris (Roxb.) seeds provide new insights into the management of oxidative stress and hyperglycemia

Phoenix sylvestris Roxb. (Arecaceae) seeds are used in the treatment of diabetes in the traditional system of medicine. The present study evaluated antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activities as well as the total phenolic and flavonoid content of the methanol extract of P. sylvestris seeds (MEPS). The constituents of the extract were identified by GC-MS analysis. MEPS demonstrated strong antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC₅₀ = 162.70 ± 14.99 μg) and nitric oxide (NO) (IC₅₀ = 101.56 ± 9.46 μg/ml) free radicals. It also possesses a substantial amount of phenolics and flavonoids. It significantly (p < .05) reduced blood glucose levels in glucose-loaded and alloxan-induced diabetic mice at the doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg b.w., respectively. A total of 46 compounds were detected and identified by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis, among which 8-methylisoquinoline N-oxide (32.82%) was predominant. The phytochemical study by GC-MS revealed that the MEPS possesses compounds which could be related to its antidiabetic and antioxidant activities. To recapitulate, P. sylvestris seeds can be a very good option for antidiabetic and antioxidant activity though further studies are still recommended to figure out the responsible phytochemicals and establish their exact mechanism of action.

Chemical and Biological Studies of Achillea setacea Herba Essential Oil-First Report on Some Antimicrobial and Antipathogenic Features

The essential oil of Achillea setacea was isolated by hydrodistillation and characterized by GC-MS. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Achillea setacea essential oil was evaluated, as well as its biocompatibility (LDH and MTT methods). DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC methods were applied for antioxidant activity evaluation, while qualitative and quantitative assays (inhibition zone diameter, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration), NO release (by nitrite concentration determination), and microbial adhesion capacity to the inert substrate (the biofilm microtiter method) were used to investigate the antimicrobial potential. A total of 52 compounds were identified by GC-MS in A. setacea essential oil, representing 97.43% of the total area. The major constituents were borneol (32.97%), 1,8-cineole (14.94%), camphor (10.13%), artemisia ketone (4.70%), α-terpineol (3.23%), and γ-eudesmol (3.23%). With MICs ranging from 0.78 to 30 μg/mL, the A. setacea essential oil proved to inhibit the microbial adhesion and induce the NO release. To the best of our knowledge, the present study reports for the first time the antimicrobial activity of A. setacea EO against clinically and biotechnologically important microbial strains, such as Shigella flexneri, Listeria ivanovii, L. innocua, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida glabrata, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus nigricans, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Alternaria alternata, demonstrating its antimicrobial applications beyond the clinical field.

Mechanism of cis-Nerolidol-Induced Bladder Carcinoma Cell Death

Nerolidol is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alcohol with multiple properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiparasitic activities. A few studies investigating the antitumor properties of nerolidol have shown positive results in both cell culture and mouse models. In this study, we investigated the antitumor mechanism of cis-nerolidol in bladder carcinoma cell lines. The results of our experiments on two bladder carcinoma cell lines revealed that nerolidol inhibited cell proliferation and induced two distinct cell death pathways. We confirmed that cis-nerolidol induces DNA damage and ER stress. A mechanistic study identified a common cAMP, Ca²⁺, and MAPK axis involved in signal propagation and amplification, leading to ER stress. Inhibition of any part of this signaling cascade prevented both cell death pathways. The two cell death mechanisms can be distinguished by the involvement of caspases. The early occurring cell death pathway is characterized by membrane blebbing and cell swelling followed by membrane rupture, which can be prevented by the inhibition of caspase activation. In the late cell death pathway, which was found to be caspase-independent, cytoplasmic vacuolization and changes in cell shape were observed. cis-Nerolidol shows promising antitumor activity through an unorthodox mechanism of action that could help target resistant forms of malignancies, such as bladder cancer.

The Effect of Nerolidol Renal Dysfunction following Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in the Rat

Efforts to decrease the deleterious effects of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) are ongoing. Recently, there has been increasing interest in using natural phytochemical compounds as alternative remedies in several diseases. Nerolidol is a natural product extracted from plants with floral odors and has been proven to be effective for the treatment of some conditions. We investigated the effect of nerolidol in a rat model of renal IRI. Nerolidol was dissolved in a vehicle and administered orally as single daily dose of 200 mg/kg for 5 days prior to IRI and continued for 3 days post IRI. G-Sham (n = 10) underwent sham surgery, whereas G-IRI (n = 10) and G-IRI/NR (n = 10) underwent bilateral warm renal ischemia for 30 min and received the vehicle/nerolidol, respectively. Renal functions and histological changes were assessed before starting the medication, just prior to IRI and 3 days after IRI. Nerolidol significantly attenuated the alterations in serum creatinine and urea, creatinine clearance, urinary albumin and the urinary albumin-creatinine ratio. Nerolidol also significantly attenuated the alterations in markers of kidney injury; proinflammatory, profibrotic and apoptotic cytokines; oxidative stress markers; and histological changes. We conclude that nerolidol has a renoprotective effect on IRI-induced renal dysfunction. These findings might have clinical implications.

Sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes from different varieties of guava leaf essential oils and their antioxidant potential

Despite that Sri Lanka is a biodiversity hotspot with numerous guava varieties (Psidium guajava L.), no adequate scientific research has been reported on leaf essential oil (EO) composition based on varieties and its pharmacological properties, namely antioxidant properties. Therefore, this study focused to evaluate the chemical compositions and antioxidative capacity of EOs isolated from leaves of seven guava varieties grown in Sri Lanka, including apple-guava (P. pomiferum , PGA), common-guava (P. guaja v a , PGCG), two wild-guava; cultivar of P. guajava (PGG) and a cultivar of P. guineense (PGE), two introduced varieties of P. guajava (PGK and PGP), and one introduced variety of P. guineense (PGC). The EOs were isolated using hydro-distillation and the chemical compositions were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) technique, and the compounds that showed greater than 90% matching value were considered for characterization. The yields of EOs ranged from 0.02-0.26% (w/w) where PGE produced the greatest amount. About sixty-eight chemical compounds were identified from seven varieties and Sesquiterpenes were found to be the most abundant in the PGCG, PGG, PGE, and PGA varieties, whereas monoterpenes were found to be the most abundant in PGK, PGP, and PGC varieties. The sesquiterpenes, Nerolidol (70.0-7.9%), (-)-Globulol (21.0-7.0%), and Caryophyllene (20.4-1.4%) and monoterpenes, D-Limonene (30.3-14.1 %) were found as the major compounds of all studied guava varieties. Twenty-eight compounds were identified for the first time in guava EOs, including Cadinadiene-1,4, Benzylacetaldehyde, and Epiglobulol. The antioxidant efficacy of EOs varied from 329.56 ± 2.01 to 85.70 ± 2.01 μL Trolox Eq/L, where PGE showed the highest antioxidative potential. Ultimately, the chemical constituents and antioxidant capacity of isolated EOs varied with the variety, with EO from PGE leaves exerting an amazing antioxidant capacity compared to the others and being rich in Nerolidol. The findings of this study fill the gap in the literature on chemical constituents in the EO of guava leaves, and also it will open the avenue to discover novel potential compounds with outstanding pharmacological activities from guava leaves.

Microglia senescence is related to neuropathic pain-associated comorbidities in the spared nerve injury model

ABSTRACT

The increased presence of senescent cells in different neurological diseases suggests the contribution of senescence in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Microglia can adapt to any type of disturbance of the homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS) and its altered activity can lead to permanent and unresolvable damage. The aim of this work was to characterize the behavioural phenotype of spared nerve injury (SNI) mice and then associate it to senescence-related mechanisms. In this work we investigated the timing of the onset of anxiety, depression, or memory decline associated with peripheral neuropathic pain, and their correlation with the presence of microglial cellular senescence. SNI mice showed a persistent pain hypersensitivity from 3 days after surgery. 28 days after nerve injury they also developed anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. The appearance of these symptoms was coincident to a significant increase of senescence markers, such as β-galactosidase and senescent-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), at microglial level in the spinal cord and hippocampus of SNI animals. These markers were unaltered at previous time points. In murine immortalized microglial cells (BV2) stimulated with LPS 500 ng/mL for 10 days (4h/day) every other day, we observed an increase of β-galactosidase, SASP appearance, a reduction of cell viability and an increase of Senescence-Associated Heterochromatic Foci (SAHF). Therefore, present findings could represent an important step to a better understanding of the pathophysiological cellular mechanisms in comorbidities related to neuropathic pain states.

Fabrication, physicochemical characterization and In vitro anticancer activity of nerolidol encapsulated solid lipid nanoparticles in human colorectal cell line

Nerolidol is a sesquiterpene that occurs naturally and possesses a diverse set of biological characteristics including anticancer activity but has limited solubility, bioavailability, and fast hepatic metabolism. The goal of this study was to develop a nanocarrier system encapsulating a bioactive as well as to evaluate its efficacy in Human Colorectal Cell Line. Solid lipid nanoparticles were fabricated by the emulsion solvent evaporation method and determined the particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, % entrapment efficiency, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), drug-excipient interaction study of developed nanoparticles. MTT assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of formulations in vitro. Nerolidol loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (NR-LNPs) have presented satisfactory properties: mean particles diameter of 159 ± 4.89 nm, PDI of 0.32 ± 0.01, the zeta potential value was found to be -10 ± 1.97 and % entrapment efficiency 71.3% ± 6.11. The formulations demonstrated enhanced biological activity due to enhanced solubility and stability of the bioactive after loading into a nanoformulation along with the better internalization inside the cells.

β-carboline-independent antidepressant-like effect of the standardized extract of the barks of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd) Poir. occurs via 5-HT2A/2C receptors in mice

BACKGROUND

Depression is a psychiatric disorder with limited therapy options. Psychedelics are new antidepressant candidates, being the ayahuasca one of the most promising ones. A synergistic combination of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carbolines allows ayahuasca antidepressant properties. Another psychedelic and DMT-containing beverage is the jurema wine used religiously by indigenous people from Northeastern Brazil.

AIMS

To evaluate the antidepressant-like effect of standardized extract of Mimosa tenuiflora (SEMT), associated or not with harmine (β-carboline), in behavioral models of depression.

METHODS

The SEMT was submitted to (+) ESI-IT-LC/MS analysis for DMT quantification. To assess the antidepressant-like effect of SEMT, the open field (OFT), tail suspension (TST), and forced swim (FST) tests were performed. To verify the participation of serotonergic systems, the 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)-induced head twitch test was performed.

RESULTS

The content of DMT found in SEMT was 24.74 ± 0.8 mg/g. Yuremamine was also identified. SEMT presented an antidepressant-like effect in mice submitted to the TST and FST, independent from harmine, with no significant alterations on the OFT. The sub-dose interaction between SEMT and ketamine also produced an anti-immobility effect in the TST, with no changes in the OFT. SEMT potentiated the head twitch behavior induced by 5-HTP and ketanserin prevented its antidepressant-like effect in the TST (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

SEMT presented a harmine-independent antidepressant-like effect in mice submitted to the TST and FST. This effect occurs possibly via activation of serotonergic systems, particularly the 5-HT_2A/2C receptors.

Heat-inactivated Lacticaseibacillus paracasei N1115 alleviates the damage due to brain function caused by long-term antibiotic cocktail exposure in mice

Critical development period of intestinal microbiota occurs concurrently with brain development, and their interaction is influenced by the microbiota–gut–brain axis. This study examined how antibiotics exposure affected gut microbiota and brain development and analyzed the possible benefits of heat-inactivated Lacticaseibacillus paracasei N1115 (N1115). Thirty neonatal male mice were randomly divided into three groups and treated with sterilized water (control), an antibiotic cocktail (Abx), or antibiotics plus heat-inactivated N1115 (Abx + N1115) for 84 days. We found that while the mRNA levels of GABA_Aα1, GABA_b1, and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the hippocampus and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), GABA_Aα1, GABA_b1, and nerve growth factor (NGF) in the prefrontal cortex were higher, the mRNA levels of 5-HT_1A were lower in the Abx group. The Abx + N1115 group had lower mRNA levels of GABA_Aα1, GABA_b1, and GR in the hippocampus and BDNF, GABA_b1, and NGF in the prefrontal cortex than the Abx group. The latency period was longer in the Morris water maze test while longer rest time was seen in tail suspension test in the Abx group than the control and Abx + N1115 groups. In the open field test, the moving time and distance of the Abx group were reduced. Further, the alpha-diversity indexes of the Abx and Abx + N1115 groups were significantly lower than the control. Further, long-term exposure to antibiotics disrupted the intestinal microbiota as evidenced by decreased Bacteroides, Firmicutes, and Lactobacillus, and increased Proteobacteria and Citrobacter. However, N1115 significantly decreased the abundance of Citrobacter when compared with those in the Abx group. These results indicate that antibiotics can substantially damage the intestinal microbiota and cognitive function, causing anxiety and depression, which can be alleviated by heat-inactivated N1115 via modulation of the microbiota–gut–brain axis.

Nerolidol: a potential approach in rheumatoid arthritis through reduction of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, COX-2 and antioxidant effect in CFA-induced arthritic model

Rheumatoid arthritis is primarily associated with inflammation and increased level of proinflammatory cytokines which are released by immune cells, macrophages or activation of arachidonic acid metabolism. The expression of these cytokines, oxidative free radicals and the activation of COX-2 enzymes are crucial targets for chronic inflammation. On the basis of established anti-inflammatory efficacy of nerolidol, the primary study was further appraised to determine its approach against Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) rheumatoid model. Arthritis was induced by inoculation of 0.1 mL CFA injection into the left hind footpad of rats. Anti-arthritic potential of nerolidol (at 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg doses) was assessed by measuring the paw volume, body weight, serum analysis, histopathological and radiographs of ankle joints. Expressions of cytokine's panels such as IL-10, IL-4, COX-2, NF-kB, TNF-α, IL-6, PGE-2 and IL-1β were determined by real-time qPCR. Antioxidant enzyme analyses were conducted by measuring the SOD, POD and catalase activity from serum and equated with arthritic control group. Nerolidol prevented body weight loss, stabilized biochemical and haematological homeostasis and significantly reduced the paw volume. Furthermore, X-ray and histopathological assessment of ankle joints showed an improvement in the joint structure of rats treated with nerolidol. Besides that, overexpression of gene pointers like TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, PGE-2 and COX-2 in CFA-treated control rats were also reversed with nerolidol. This anti-arthritic mechanism was further supported by the increased level of IL-10, IL-4 and serum antioxidant activity. The present findings demonstrate that nerolidol reduced adjuvant arthritis by downregulating the proinflammatory cytokines and upregulating the aforementioned anti-inflammatory cytokines and may be used as a therapeutic substance for the management of human rheumatoid arthritis.

Musk (Moschus moschiferus) Attenuates Changes in Main Olfactory Bulb of Depressed Mice: Behavioral, Biochemical, and Histopathological Evidence

BACKGROUND

Musk (Moschus moschiferus) has been described to have a significant impact on the central nervous system, as well as anticonvulsion and antidepressant effects. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of musk in alleviating alterations induced in olfactory bulb of depressed mice exposed to chronic stress and identify the mechanism behind it.

METHODS

Fifty male albino mice were divided into five groups (n = 10 each): control, musk, chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), fluoxetine-treated, and musk-treated groups were included in this study. Behavioral changes and serum levels of corticosterone and proinflammatory cytokines included tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, and oxidant/antioxidant profile were assessed at the end of the experiment. Main olfactory bulb (MOB) has been processed for histopathological examination. Gene expression of caspase-3, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and Ki67 were assessed in the MOB using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The study showed that musk inhalation significantly reduced (p < 0.001) corticosterone level, immobility time, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers in CUMS-exposed mice compared to the untreated CUMS group. Musk lessened CUMS-associated neuronal alterations in the MOB and significantly reduced apoptosis and enhanced neural cell proliferation (p < 0.001) comparable to fluoxetine. Musk significantly enhanced the level of antioxidants in the serum and significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of musk and its constituents seemed to be behind its neuroprotective effect observed in this study.

CONCLUSION

Musk effectively ameliorated the chronic stress-induced behavioral, biochemical, and neuronal structural changes in MOB mostly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Determination of the Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Lavatera thuringiaca L. Medicinal Herb Material Extracted under Subcritical Conditions by the Liquid Carbon Dioxide Method

This article presents the composition of the components of Lavatera thuringiaca L. (Malvaceae Juss. family), which has a certain antibacterial effect. The plant collection was carried out in the Shamalgan gorge of Mountain Range of the Trans-Ili Alatau in the territory of the Karasay district of the Almaty region, in the flowering phase. A CO₂ extract of the aboveground part of the medicinal plant Lavatera thuringiaca L. was obtained under subcritical conditions and, for the first time, studied for its component composition and antimicrobial activity. Determination of the chemical composition of the extract was carried out by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). To identify the obtained mass spectra, we used the Wiley 7^th edition and the NIST'02 data library. To determine the antimicrobial and antifungal activity, standard test strains of microorganisms were used: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538-P, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, Streptococcus pneumonia ATCC 660, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. In the composition of thick CO₂Lavatera thuringiaca L. extract, the content of 31 components was proven: spathulenol 6.97%, pulegone 5 08%, cis-β-farnesene 7.63%, verbenone 1.93%, α-bisabolol oxide B 9.65%, bisabolol oxide A 8.26%, α-bisabolol 1.36%, linolenic acid, ethyl ether 3.15%, phytol 2.49%, herniarin 5.61%, linolenic acid 9.38%, linoleic acid 6.95%, myristic acid 2.33%, and elaidic acid 2.57%. Antimicrobial activity studies have shown that the CO₂ extract of Lavatera thuringiaca L. has a pronounced effect against clinically significant microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Streptococcus pneumonia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. During testing, the method of serial dilutions proved that the extract of Lavatera thuringiaca L. has a bactericidal effect on Staphylococcus aureus at a concentration of 0.83 μg/μl, on Escherichia coli at a concentration of 3.33 μg/μl, on Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a concentration of 0.83 μg/μl, on Streptococcus pneumoniae at a concentration of 1.67 μg/μl, on a clinical isolate of Staphylococcus haemolyticus at a concentration of 26.65 μg/μl, on Staphylococcus saprophyticus at a concentration of 6.67 μg/μl, and against Klebsiella pneumoniae at a concentration of 13.36 μg/μl. The test result showed that the extract also has fungicidal activity against the test culture of Candida albicans at a concentration of 0.21 μg/μl. At tests, the disc diffusion method proved that the extract has antimicrobial activity with high values of the growth suppression zone exceeding 15 mm. The zones of growth retardation of the test strains were 19.33 ± 1.15 for Staphylococcus aureus; 17.33 ± 3.21 for Escherichia coli; 15.67 ± 0.57 for Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 20.0 ± 1.0 for Streptococcus pneumoniae; 16.0 ± 2.64 for Klebsiella pneumoniae; 15.0 ± 1.0 for Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and 22.0 ± 1.73 for Candida albicans. In relation to the clinical isolate of Staphylococcus haemolyticus, the extract has a bacteriostatic effect.

Uncovering the Protective Mechanism of the Volatile Oil of Acorus tatarinowii against Acute Myocardial Ischemia Injury Using Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation

Acorus tatarinowii is a traditional aromatic resuscitation drug that can be clinically used to prevent cardiovascular diseases. The volatile oil of Acorus tatarinowii (VOA) possesses important medicinal properties, including protection against acute myocardial ischemia (MI) injury. However, the pharmacodynamic material basis and molecular mechanisms underlying this protective effect remain unclear. Using network pharmacology and animal experiments, we studied the mechanisms and pathways implicated in the activity of VOA against acute MI injury. First, VOA was extracted from three batches of Acorus tatarinowii using steam distillation, and then, its chemical composition was determined by GC-MS. Next, the components-targets and protein-protein interaction networks were constructed using systematic network pharmacology. Gene Ontology (GO) function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were also conducted in order to predict the possible pharmacodynamic mechanisms. Furthermore, animal experiments including ELISAs, histological examinations, and Western blots were performed in order to validate the pharmacological effects of VOA. In total, 33 chemical components were identified in VOA, and ß-asarone was found to be the most abundant component. Based on network pharmacology analysis, the therapeutic effects of VOA against myocardial ischemia might be mediated by signaling pathways involving COX-2, PPAR-α, VEGF, and cAMP. Overall, the obtained results indicate that VOA alleviates the pathological manifestations of isoproterenol-hydrochloride-induced myocardial ischemia in rats, including the decreased SOD (superoxide dismutase) content and increased LDH (lactic dehydrogenase) content. Moreover, the anti-MI effect of VOA might be attributed to the downregulation of the COX-2 protein that inhibits apoptosis, the upregulation of the PPAR-α protein that regulates energy metabolism, and the activation of VEGF and cAMP signaling pathways.

Nerolidol, a Sesquiterpene from the Essential Oils of Aromatic Plants, Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Chronic Cardiotoxicity in Rats

The clinical usage of doxorubicin (DOX), a potent anthracycline antineoplastic drug, is limited due to its cardiotoxicity. The aim of this study was to assess the possible cardioprotective effects of nerolidol (NERO) in a rat model of DOX-induced chronic cardiotoxicity and the underlying molecular mechanisms. DOX (2.5 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally once in a week for 5 weeks to induce chronic cardiotoxicity in male albino Wistar rats. The rats were treated with NERO (50 mg/kg, orally) 6 days a week for a duration of 5 weeks. DOX-injected rats showed a significant decline in cardiac function, elevated levels of serum cardiac marker enzymes, and enhanced oxidative stress markers along with altered PI3K/Akt and Nrf2/Keap1/HO-1 signaling pathways. DOX also triggered the activation of NF-κB/MAPK signaling and increased the levels/expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and expression of inflammatory mediators (iNOS and COX-2) in the heart. DOX activated NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptotic cell death along with fibrosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, and apoptosis in the myocardium. Additionally, histological studies, TUNEL staining, and myocardial lesions revealed structural alterations of the myocardium. NERO treatment showed considerable protective effects on the biochemical and molecular parameters studied. The findings demonstrate that NERO protects against DOX-induced chronic cardiotoxicity and the observed cardioprotective effects are attributed to its potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties.

Anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of essential oil from the fruits of Piper nigrum Linn. (Black pepper) in mice: involvement of serotonergic but not GABAergic transmission system

In this study, the anxiolytic activity of Piper nigrum essential oil (PNEO) was evaluated in the elevated plus maze (EPM) and the antidepressant-like effect was evaluated through tail suspension test (TST) in mice. Flumazenil, a competitive inhibitor of GABA_A receptor in the benzodiazepine site and WAY-100635 maleate salt, a 5-HT_1A receptor antagonist were used to find out the possible mechanism(s) of action of PNEO. To exclude the false-positive results due to the enhancement of the locomotor activity, the animals were submitted to open field test (OFT). We also measured monoamines levels of the mice brain after acute PNEO treatment. The data obtained from the study suggest that the anxiolytics and antidepressant-like effect of PNEO have observed in EPM and TST respectively in a dose-dependent manner after oral acute and repetitive treatment. WAY-100635, but not flumazenil was able to reverse the effect of PNEO in EPM and TST both, indicating the possible involvement of 5-HT_1A receptor. The neurochemical analysis showed no alteration in monoamine levels in mice brains. Furthermore, no locomotor impairment or sign of toxicity or changes in body weight or abnormalities in the biochemical parameters, except for a significant decrease in total cholesterol level was observed after treatment with PNEO. The findings suggest that Piper nigrum EO possesses a dual anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effect through the possible involvement of serotonergic transmission.

Neuroprotective effect of nerolidol in traumatic brain injury associated behavioural comorbidities in rats

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an insult to the brain from an external mechanical force, leading to temporary/permanent secondary injuries, i.e. impairment of cognitive, physical, and psycho-social functions with altered consciousness. The leading mechanism responsible for neuronal damage following TBI is an increase in oxidative reactions initiated by free radicals generated by the injury along with various other mechanisms. Nerolidol is reported to have potent antioxidant and anti-neuroinflammatory properties. The present study was designed to explore the neuroprotective effect of nerolidol in weight-drop-induced TBI in rats. Animals were injured on the 1st day by dropping a free-falling weight of 200 gm from a height of 1 m through a guide pipe onto the exposed skull. After 14 days of injury, nerolidol (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) treatment was given for the next 14 days. Locomotor activity and motor coordination were evaluated using an actophotometer and rotarod, respectively. Cognitive impairment was observed through the Morris Water Maze and Object Recognition Test. On the 29th day, animals were sacrificed, and their brains were collected for the biochemical estimation. The weight drop model significantly decreased locomotor activity, motor coordination, increased Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, oxidative stress, and induced cognitive deficits in TBI rats. Nerolidol significantly improved locomotor activity, reversed motor incoordination and cognitive impairment, and reduced the AChE activity and oxidative/nitrosative stress. The present study demonstrates the promising neuroprotective effects of nerolidol, which might improve the quality of life of TBI patients.

Citrus hystrix Extracts Protect Human Neuronal Cells against High Glucose-Induced Senescence

Citrus hystrix (CH) is a beneficial plant utilized in traditional folk medicine to relieve various health ailments. The antisenescent mechanisms of CH extracts were investigated using human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). Phytochemical contents and antioxidant activities of CH extracts were analyzed using a gas chromatograph–mass spectrometer (GC-MS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) assay and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assay. Effects of CH extracts on high glucose-induced cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cell cycle arrest and cell cycle-associated proteins were assessed using a 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide tetrazolium (MTT) assay, non-fluorescent 2′, 7′-dichloro-dihydrofluorescein diacetate (H₂DCFDA) assay, flow cytometer and Western blot. The extracts protected neuronal senescence by inhibiting ROS generation. CH extracts induced cell cycle progression by releasing senescent cells from the G1 phase arrest. As the Western blot confirmed, the mechanism involved in cell cycle progression was associated with the downregulation of cyclin D1, phospho-cell division cycle 2 (pcdc2) and phospho-Retinoblastoma (pRb) proteins. Furthermore, the Western blot showed that extracts increased Surtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression by increasing the phosphorylation of Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH). Collectively, CH extracts could protect high glucose-induced human neuronal senescence by inducing cell cycle progression and up-regulation of SIRT1, thus leading to the improvement of the neuronal cell functions.

Nano-engineered nerolidol loaded lipid carrier delivery system attenuates cyclophosphamide neurotoxicity - Probable role of NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1

Neuroinflammation is one of the most common etiology in various neurological disorders and responsible for multi-array neurotoxic manifestations such as neurodegeneration, neurotransmitters alteration and cognitive dysfunction. NR (Nerolidol) is a natural bioactive molecule which possesses significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, but suffers from glitches of low solubility, low bioavailability and fast hepatic metabolism. In the current study, we fabricated nano-engineered lipid carrier of nerolidol (NR-NLC) for its effective delivery into the brain and explored its effect on neuroinflammation, neurotransmitters level and on dysfunctional behavioral attributes induced by CYC (cyclophosphamide). The binding affinity of nerolidol with NLRP3 and TLR-4 was performed which showed stong interaction between them. NR-NLC was prepared by the ultrasonication methods and particle size was determined by Zeta-sizer. Swiss Albino mice were divided into 5 groups (n = 6), assessed for behavioral dysfunction, and sacrificed on the fifteenth day following cyclophosphamide treatment. Brains were then removed and used for biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical and fluorescence microscopic analysis. Biochemical analysis showed increased levels of MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, acetylcholine esterase, BDNF, 5-HT and dopamine, and reduced levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, IL-10, along with significant behavioral dysfunction in cyclophosphamide-treated animals. Significant neuronal damage was also observed in the histological study. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated increased expression of NLRP3 and caspase-1. Fluorescence microscopic analysis showed significant availability of NR-NLC in the hippocampus and cortex region. In contrast, treatment with NR-NLC effectively mitigated the aforementioned neurotoxic manifestation as compared to NR suspension. Our results showed potent neuroprotective effect of NR-NLC via modulation of oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, caspase-1 and neurotransmitter status.

Effect of nerolidol on cyclophosphamide-induced bone marrow and hematologic toxicity in Swiss albino mice

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the commonly used anticancer drugs, but its use is limited by myelotoxicity. Nerolidol (NER) is a lipophilic, bioactive sesquiterpene reported to have neuroprotective, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, and renal protective potential, but its myeloprotective potential is underexplored. This study was aimed at evaluating the myeloid-protective potential of NER in CP-induced myelotoxic mice. NER 200 and 400 mg/kg was given orally from the first to the 14th day. CP 200 mg/kg was administered intravenously on the seventh day. At the end of the study, mice were humanly killed, and blood and bone marrow were collected and stored for hematologic, biochemical and histopathologic estimations. Bone marrow analysis revealed reduced bone marrow cellularity, α-esterase activity, colony-forming unit granulocyte-macrophage (CFU-GM) levels, colony-forming unit erythroid (CFU-E) levels, and burst-forming unit-erythroid (BFU-E) levels. Hematologic findings revealed reduced peripheral blood count and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) levels, whereas biochemical analysis revealed increased malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β levels and reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and IL-10 levels. Histopathologic study further strengthened our findings. Treatment with NER significantly reversed the hematotoxic and myelotoxic aberrations and retained the structural integrity of bone marrow. Findings of the current study suggest that NER is a potential therapeutic molecule that can mitigate CP-induced hematotoxic and myelotoxic manifestations. However, more detailed studies are needed to explicate the mechanism underlying its protective effect.

Anticonvulsant Essential Oils and Their Relationship with Oxidative Stress in Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a most disabling neurological disorder affecting all age groups. Among the various mechanisms that may result in epilepsy, neuronal hyperexcitability and oxidative injury produced by an excessive formation of free radicals may play a role in the development of this pathology. Therefore, new treatment approaches are needed to address resistant conditions that do not respond fully to current antiepileptic drugs. This paper reviews studies on the anticonvulsant activities of essential oils and their chemical constituents. Data from studies published from January 2011 to December 2018 was selected from the PubMed database for examination. The bioactivity of 19 essential oils and 16 constituents is described. Apiaceae and Lamiaceae were the most promising botanical families due to the largest number of reports about plant species from these families that produce anticonvulsant essential oils. Among the evaluated compounds, β-caryophyllene, borneol, eugenol and nerolidol were the constituents that presented antioxidant properties related to anticonvulsant action. These data show the potential of these natural products as health promoting agents and use against various types of seizure disorders. Their properties on oxidative stress may contribute to the control of this neurological condition. However, further studies on the toxicological profile and mechanism of action of essential oils are needed.

Early Celastrol Administration Prevents Ketamine-Induced Psychotic-Like Behavioral Dysfunctions, Oxidative Stress and IL-10 Reduction in The Cerebellum of Adult Mice

Administration of subanesthetic doses of ketamine during brain maturation represents a tool to mimic an early insult to the central nervous system (CNS). The cerebellum is a key player in psychosis pathogenesis, to which oxidative stress also contributes. Here, we investigated the impact of early celastrol administration on behavioral dysfunctions in adult mice that had received ketamine (30 mg/kg i.p.) at postnatal days (PNDs) 7, 9, and 11. Cerebellar levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), NADPH oxidase (NOX) 1 and NOX2, as well as of the calcium-binding protein parvalbumin (PV), were also assessed. Furthermore, celastrol effects on ketamine-induced alterations of proinflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines in this brain region were evaluated. Early celastrol administration prevented ketamine-induced discrimination index decrease at adulthood. The same was found for locomotor activity elevations and increased close following and allogrooming, whereas no beneficial effects on sniffing impairment were detected. Ketamine increased 8-OHdG in the cerebellum of adult mice, which was also prevented by early celastrol injection. Cerebellar NOX1 levels were enhanced at adulthood following postnatal ketamine exposure. Celastrol per se induced NOX1 decrease in the cerebellum. This effect was more significant in animals that were early administered with ketamine. NOX2 levels did not change. Ketamine administration did not affect PV amount in the cerebellum. TNF-α levels were enhanced in ketamine-treated animals; however, this was not prevented by early celastrol administration. While no changes were observed for IL-6 and IL-1β levels, ketamine determined a reduction of cerebellar IL-10 expression, which was prevented by early celastrol treatment. Our results suggest that NOX inhibition during brain maturation prevents the development of psychotic-like behavioral dysfunctions, as well as the increased cerebellar oxidative stress and the reduction of IL-10 in the same brain region following ketamine exposure in postnatal life. This opens novel neuroprotective opportunities against early detrimental insults occurring during brain development.

Exploring new applications of tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera L.): leaf essential oil as apoptotic agent for human glioblastoma

Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae), also known as "tulip tree," is a hardwood plant native to North America, cultivated all over the world and used on an industrial level, especially for its fine wood and to make honey. It has also been traditionally exploited for its antimalarial properties. However, our knowledge about the bioactivity of its essential oil remains patchy. In this research, we focused on the biological evaluation of the volatile fractions obtained from different parts of the plant which are normally discharged by industry, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. For the purpose, the essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, they were evaluated as radical scavenging, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative agents by using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, disk diffusion, and MTT methods, respectively. The significant toxicity exhibited on human tumor cells, namely A375 malignant melanoma, HCT116 colon carcinoma, MDA-MB 231 breast adenocarcinoma, and T98G glioblastoma multiforme cell lines, prompted us to study the mechanism of action by acridine orange/ethidium bromide double staining and caspase 3 assays. Our findings shed light on the potential applications of tulip tree derivatives as anticancer drugs.

Nerolidol ameliorates cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and cognitive dysfunction: Plausible role of Nrf2 and NF- κB

AIM

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a potent anticancer and immunosuppressant drug. Studies have shown significant oxidative stress and cognitive impairment but neuroinflammatory and histological aberrations with its administration is underexplored. Nerolidol (NER) is a lipophilic bioactive molecule with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties but it has not been explored for neuroprotective potential in CP-induced neurotoxic manifestations. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of NER in CP-induced neuroinflammation and associated comorbid conditions like depression and cognitive dysfunctions.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

In-silico study using Schrödinger software was used to assess the binding affinity of NER with Nrf2. In the In vivo study, NER 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o. were given from 1st day to 14th day. CP 200 mg/kg, i.p., was administered on the 7th day. After 24 h of the last dosing, neurobehavioral tests like spontaneous body alternation, passive avoidance and forced swim test were performed. On completion of study, mice were sacrificed, hippocampus and cortex were removed for biochemical estimations, histopathology and immunohistochemistry of p65 NF- κB and Nrf2.

KEY FINDINGS

In-silico study showed significant binding of NER into the pocket domain of Nrf2. In-vivo study showed protective effect of NER against CP-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, cognitive impairment and structural abnormalities in the hippocampus and cortex regions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Findings of the study suggested that NER is a potential therapeutic molecule which can mitigate CP-induced neurotoxic manifestations via Nrf2 and NF-κB pathway. However, more detailed studies are needed to explicate the mechanism underlying its neuroprotective effect.

Preventive effect of nerolidol on isoproterenol induced myocardial damage in Wistar rats: Evidences from biochemical and histopathological studies

The present study aimed at investigating the protective effects of nerolidol (NRD) against myocardial infarction (MI) induced by isoproterenol (ISO) in Wistar rats. The rats were randomly divided into five groups, each group consisting of six rats. Group I were treated as control rats, group II received NRD (200 mg/kg b.w.) by intragastric intubation for 21 days, group III received ISO (60 mg/kg b.w) subcutaneously (s.c) for two consecutive days on 22nd and 23rd day, group IV and V received NRD (100 and 200 mg/kg b.w) as in group II and additionally ISO was given for two consecutive days (22nd and 23rd). On 24th day all the rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and the blood and heart samples were collected. In the present study, ISO-induced myocardial damage was indicated by the changes in body weight, heart weight and the cardiac and hepatic marker enzymes such as creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and troponin T and I (cTnT, cTnI) in the serum. In addition, the levels of lipid peroxidation products such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dines (CD), and lipid hydroperoxides (LHPs) increased significantly in the plasma and heart tissue. Activities of enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in erythrocytes and heart tissue and the levels of nonenzymatic antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and reduced glutathione (GSH) in plasma and heart tissue were decreased in ISO-induced rats. Histopathological observations were also supported with the biochemical parameters. Pretreatment with NRD at different doses (100 and 200 mg/kg b.w) for 21 days prevented the above changes induced by ISO. The 200 mg/kg b.w of NRD was more pronounced than the other dose and brought back all the above parameters near to normalcy.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of Cis/Trans-N-Phenyl-1,4,4a,5,8,8a-Hexahydro-3,1-Benzoxazin-2-Imines

The growing interest in the chemistry of unsaturated ring-fused 1,3-heterocycles, in this particular case 1,3-oxazines, arise in part from their versatile pharmacological applications. In the present article, the evaluation of the in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity of two cyclohexene-fused oxazines is discussed. The in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated by trapping the ABTS and hydroxyl radicals as well as the inhibition of the enzyme acetyl-cholinesterase and hemolysis of erythrocytes by 2,2'-Azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH). The results suggest that both unsaturated 1,3-oxazines are auspicious sources of biologically active compounds with good antioxidant properties. In addition, a comprehensive analysis of the interaction between these heterocycles with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, as well as the measurements of redox potential, provided evidence for a mechanism of antioxidant activity that takes place through electron transfer (ET) processes.

Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus

Cannabaceae plants Cannabis sativa L. and Humulus lupulus L. are rich in terpenes - both are typically comprised of terpenes as up to 3-5% of the dry-mass of the female inflorescence. Terpenes of cannabis and hops are typically simple mono- and sesquiterpenes derived from two and three isoprene units, respectively. Some terpenes are relatively well known for their potential in biomedicine and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, while others are yet to be studied in detail. The current, comprehensive review presents terpenes found in cannabis and hops. Terpenes' medicinal properties are supported by numerous in vitro, animal and clinical trials and show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anticancer, antitumor, neuroprotective, anti-mutagenic, anti-allergic, antibiotic and anti-diabetic attributes, among others. Because of the very low toxicity, these terpenes are already widely used as food additives and in cosmetic products. Thus, they have been proven safe and well-tolerated.

Ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Arctotis arctotoides (L.f.) O. Hoffm.: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Arctotis arctotoides (Asteraceae) is part of the genus Arctotis. Arctotis is an African genus of approximately 70 species that occur widely in the African continent with diverse medicinal values. This plant is used for the treatment of indigestion and catarrh of the stomach, epilepsy, topical wounds and skin disorders among the ethnic groups in South Africa and reported to have a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of the present review is to appraise the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, analytical methods and safety issues of A. arctotoides. Additionally, this review will help to fill the existing gaps in knowledge and highlight further research prospects in the field of phytochemistry and pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on A. arctotoides was collected from various resources, including books on African medicinal herbs and Zulu medicinal plants, theses, reports and the internet databases such as SciFinder, Google Scholar, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Mendeley by using a combination of various meaningful keywords. This review surveys the available literature of the species from 1962 to April 2017.

RESULTS

In vitro and in vivo studies of the medicinal properties of A. arctotoides were reviewed. The main isolated and identified compounds were reported as sesquiterpenes, farnesol derivatives, germacranolide, guaianolides and some steroids, of which, nine were reported as antimicrobial. Monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids were the predominant essential oil compound classes of the leaves, flowers, stems and roots. The present review revealed potential pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activities of plant extracts as well as isolated compounds. Moreover, the review reports the safety profile (toxicity) of the crude extracts that had been screened on brine shrimps, rats and human cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

The present review has focused on the phytochemistry, botany, ethnopharmacology, biological activities and toxicological information of A. arctotoides. On the basis of reported data, A. arctotoides has emerged as a good source of natural medicine for the treatment of microbial infections, skin diseases, anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents and also provides new insights for further isolation of new bioactive compounds, especially the discovery of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer novel therapeutic lead drug molecules. Additionally, intensive investigations regarding pharmacological properties, safety assessment and efficacy with their mechanism of action could be future research interests before starting clinical trials for medicinal practices.

Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide induces cognitive dysfunction, mediated by neuronal inflammation via activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway in C57BL/6 mice

Background

Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (P. gingivalis-LPS) is one of the major pathogenic factors of chronic periodontitis (CP). Few reports on the correlation between P. gingivalis-LPS and cognitive function exist. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of P. gingivalis-LPS on cognitive function and the associated underlying mechanism in C57BL/6 mice.

Methods

The C57BL/6 mice were injected with P. gingivalis-LPS (5 mg kg⁻¹) either with or without Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibitor (TAK-242, 5 mg kg⁻¹). After 7 days, behavioral alterations were assessed with the open field test (OFT), Morris water maze (MWM) test, and passive avoidance test (PAT). The activation of astrocytes and microglia in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice was observed by immunohistochemistry. The expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8), TLRs (TLR2, TLR3, and TLR4), and CD14 and the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway (IRAK1, p65, and p-p65) in the cerebral cortex of the mice were evaluated by RT-PCR, ELISA, and western blot.

Results

The OFT showed that P. gingivalis-LPS did not affect the initiative and activity of mice. Administration of P. gingivalis-LPS significantly impaired spatial learning and memory during the MWM test and attenuated the ability of passive avoidance learning during the PAT. Both astrocytes and microglia were activated in the cortex and hippocampus. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) was upregulated by P. gingivalis-LPS in the cortex. In addition, the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway was activated (TLR4, CD14, IRAK1, and p-p65). These effects were effectively alleviated by TAK-242.

Conclusions

Administration of P. gingivalis-LPS can lead to learning and memory impairment in C57BL/6 mice. This impairment is mediated by activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway. Our study suggests that P. gingivalis-LPS-induced neuroinflammation plays an important role in cognitive impairment. It also reveals that endotoxins of periodontal pathogens could represent a risk factor for cognitive disorders.

Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of the Flower Volatile Oils of Fagopyrum esculentum, Fagopyrum tataricum and Fagopyrum Cymosum

The purpose of this study was to investigate the chemical composition and biological activity of the volatile oils (VOs) from the flowers of three buckwheat species, Fagopyrum esculentum, Fagopyrum tataricum and Fagopyrum cymosum. The VOs were obtained from the fresh buckwheat flowers by hydrodistillation, and were analyzed for their chemical composition by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Nonanoic acid (7.58%), (E)-3-hexen-1-ol (6.52%), and benzothiazole (5.08%) were the major constituents among the 28 identified components which accounted for 92.89% of the total oil of F. esculentum. 2-Pentadecanone (18.61%), eugenol (17.18%), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-methylpropyl) ester (13.19%), and (E,E)-farnesylacetone (7.15%) were the major compounds among the 14 identified components which accounted for 88.48% of the total oil of F. tataricum. Eugenol (12.22%), (E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate (8.03%), linalool oxide (7.47%), 1-hexanol (7.07%), and benzothiazole (6.72%) were the main compounds of the 20 identified components which accounted for 90.23% of the total oil of F. cymosum. The three VOs were screened to have broad spectrum antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 100.0 μg/mL to 800.0 μg/mL against the tested bacteria, and their median inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values were from 68.32 μg/mL to 452.32 μg/mL. Xanthomonas vesicatoria was the most sensitive bacterium. Moreover, the flower VOs of F. esculentum, F. tataricum and F. cymosum also exhibited noteworthy antioxidant capacity with the IC₅₀ value of 354.15 μg/mL, 210.63 μg/mL, and 264.92 μg/mL for the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay, and the value of 242.06 μg/mL, 184.13 μg/mL, and 206.11 μg/mL respectively for the β-carotene-linoleic bleaching test. These results suggested the volatile oils of buckwheat flowers could be potential resource of natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agents.

Phytochemical investigations and antiproliferative secondary metabolites from Thymus alternans growing in Slovakia

CONTEXT

Thymus alternans Klokov (Lamiaceae) is a neglected species of the genus Thymus (Sect. Serpyllum) endemic to Carpathian area, where it is used as a flavouring agent and for medicinal purposes.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the work was to identify antiproliferative constituents from the flowering aerial parts of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thymus alternans extracts were analyzed by HPLC-MSⁿ and subjected to extensive chromatographic separations. The isolated compounds (phenolics and triterpenes) were structurally elucidated by MS and 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Essential oil (EO) composition was determined by GC-FID and GC-MS. Six purified triterpenes and EO were assayed for in vitro antiproliferative activity against a panel of human cancer cells, namely, breast (MDA-MB 231), colon (HCT-15 and HCT116), lung (U1810), pancreatic (BxPC3), melanoma (A375) and cervical carcinoma (A431) cells.

RESULTS

The structures of the isolated compounds were achieved on the basis of H-NMR and MS experiments. Luteolin-4'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P1), chrysoeriol-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P2), chrysoeriol-5-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P3), apigenin-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P4), rosmarinic acid (P5), rosmarinic acid-3'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P6), caffeic acid-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P7), 3α-hydroxy-urs-12,15-diene (T1), α-amyrin (T2), β-amyrin (T3), isoursenol (T4), epitaraxerol (T5), and oleanolic acid (T6). GC-MS analysis revealed that the EO of T. alternans was devoid of phenols and belonged to the nerolidol-chemotype, that is typical of the Sect. Serpyllum. The six purified triterpenes (T1-T6) were active with IC₅₀ ranging from 0.5 to 5 μM being comparable or better than those of reference compounds betulinic acid and cisplatin. The EO exhibited significant effects on A375, MDA-MB 231 and HCT116 cell lines with IC₅₀ in the range of 5-8 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION

The reported results suggest that T. alternans can be considered as a good source of phytoconstituents with possible importance in the pharmaceutical field.

Inhibition of Calpains Protects Mn-Induced Neurotransmitter release disorders in Synaptosomes from Mice: Involvement of SNARE Complex and Synaptic Vesicle Fusion

Overexposure to manganese (Mn) could disrupt neurotransmitter release via influencing the formation of SNARE complex, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. A previous study demonstrated that SNAP-25 is one of substrate of calpains. The current study investigated whether calpains were involved in Mn-induced disorder of SNARE complex. After mice were treated with Mn for 24 days, Mn deposition increased significantly in basal nuclei in Mn-treated and calpeptin pre-treated groups. Behaviorally, less time spent in the center of the area and decreased average velocity significantly in an open field test after 24 days of Mn exposure. With the increase in MnCl₂ dosage, intracellular Ca²⁺ increased significantly, but pretreatment with calpeptin caused a dose-dependent decrease in calpains activity. There were fragments of N-terminal of SNAP-25 protein appearance in Mn-treated groups, but it is decreased with pretreatment of calpeptin. FM1-43-labeled synaptic vesicles also provided evidence that the treatment with Mn resulted in increasing first and then decreasing, which was consistent with Glu release and the 80 kDa protein levels of SNARE complexes. In summary, Mn induced the disorder of neurotransmitter release through influencing the formation of SNARE complex via cleaving SNAP-25 by overactivation of calpains in vivo.

Assessment of anxiolytic effect of nerolidol in mice

Aim and Objectives:

The present study was to assess the anxiolytic effect of nerolidol in mice.

Materials and Methods:

The anxiolytic activity was examined using the elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field test (OFT), and motor coordination by rotarod test. Thirty Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups of six mice each. Group 1 received vehicle control (normal saline); Group 2 received diazepam (1 mg/kg); Groups 3, 4, and 5 received nerolidol 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, respectively.

Results:

Nerolidol (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) increased the time spent and a number of entries in open arm as compared to vehicle control in EPM test. In OFT, the nerolidol showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in number of rearings and time spent in center and periphery, suggesting exploratory behavior of animals. Furthermore, nerolidol did not alter the fall down latency in rotarod test.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated that nerolidol exerts an anxiolytic effect without altering the motor coordination.

Extract of Ginkgo biloba promotes neuronal regeneration in the hippocampus after exposure to acrylamide

Previous studies have demonstrated a neuroprotective effect of extract of Ginkgo biloba against neuronal damage, but have mainly focused on antioxidation of extract of Ginkgo biloba. To date, limited studies have determined whether extrasct of Ginkgo biloba has a protective effect on neuronal damage. In the present study, acrylamide and 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg extract of Ginkgo biloba were administered for 4 weeks by gavage to establish mouse models. Our results showed that 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg extract of Ginkgo biloba effectively alleviated the abnormal gait of poisoned mice, and up-regulated protein expression levels of doublecortin (DCX), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and growth associated protein-43 (GAP-43) in the hippocampus. Simultaneously, DCX- and GAP-43-immunoreactive cells increased. These findings suggest that extract of Ginkgo biloba can mitigate neurotoxicity induced by acrylamide, and thereby promote neuronal regeneration in the hippocampus of acrylamide-treated mice.

Nerolidol-loaded nanospheres prevent behavioral impairment via ameliorating Na+, K+-ATPase and AChE activities as well as reducing oxidative stress in the brain of Trypanosoma evansi-infected mice

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nerolidol-loaded nanospheres (N-NS) on the treatment of memory impairment caused by Trypanosoma evansi in mice, as well as oxidative stress, and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities in brain tissue. Animals were submitted to behavioral tasks (inhibitory avoidance task and open-field test) 4 days postinfection (PI). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS) levels and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase and AChE activities were measured on the fifth-day PI. T. evansi-infected mice showed memory deficit, increased ROS and TBARS levels and SOD and AChE activities, and decreased CAT and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activities compared to uninfected mice. N-NS prevented memory impairment and oxidative stress parameters (except SOD activity), while free nerolidol (N-F) restored only CAT activity. Also, N-NS treatment was able to prevent alterations in Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase and AChE activities caused by T. evansi infection. A significantly negative correlation was observed between memory and ROS production (p < 0.001; r = -0.941), as well as between memory and AChE activity (p < 0.05; r = -0.774). On the contrary, a significantly positive correlation between memory and Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity was observed (p < 0.01; r = 0.844). In conclusion, N-NS was able to reverse memory impairment and to prevent increased ROS and TBARS levels due to amelioration of Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase and AChE activities and to activation of the antioxidant enzymes, respectively. These results suggest that N-NS treatment may be a useful strategy to treat memory dysfunction and oxidative stress caused by T. evansi infection.

Nerolidol-loaded nanospheres prevent hepatic oxidative stress of mice infected by Trypanosoma evansi

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nerolidol free (N-F) and nerolidol-loaded in nanospheres (N-NS) on the hepatic antioxidant/oxidant status of mice experimentally infected by Trypanosoma evansi. In the liver it was measured: reactive oxygen species (ROS), thiobarbituric reactive acid substances (TBARS) and non-protein thiols (NPSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and performed histopathological examination. In addition, seric levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were measured. Liver samples from mice infected by T. evansi showed increased (P < 0·05) ROS, TBARS, AST and ALT levels and SOD activity, and decreased NPSH levels and CAT activity (P < 0·05) compared with uninfected animals. N-NS treatment prevented (P < 0·05) ROS and TBARS increase, and increased NPSH levels, and ameliorate CAT and SOD activities on liver of infected mice. Moreover, N-NS treatment reduced (P < 0·05) AST and ALT levels, and prevented histopathological changes caused by the parasite. N-NS protected the liver from the oxidative stress caused by T. evansi, which might be due to its antioxidant properties. Nerolidol might be considered a promising therapeutic agent against oxidative stress, and nanotechnology is an encouraging approach to be explored.

Neuroprotective effect of nerolidol against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress induced by rotenone

Background

Parkinson disease (PD) is a movement disorder affecting 1 % of people over the age of 60. The etiology of the disease is unknown; however, accumulating evidence suggests that mitochondrial defects, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation play important roles in developing the disease. Current medications for PD can only improve its symptoms, but are unable to halt its progressive nature. Although many therapeutic approaches are available, new drugs are urgently needed for the treatment of PD. Thus, the present study was undertaken to investigate the neuroprotective potential of nerolidol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, on a rotenone-induced experimental model of PD, where male Wistar rats intraperitoneally received rotenone (ROT) at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg of body weight once daily for 4 weeks.

Results

Nerolidol, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was injected intraperitoneally at 50 mg/kg of body weight, once daily for 4 weeks, and at 30 min prior to ROT administration. ROT administration significantly reduced the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and the level of the antioxidant tripeptide glutathione (GSH). Moreover, ROT increased the levels of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA), proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), and inflammatory mediators (COX-2 and iNOS) in rat brain tissues. Immunostaining of brain tissue sections revealed a significant increase in the number of activated astrocytes (GFAP) and microglia (Iba-1), along with the concomitant loss of dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and dopaminergic nerve fibers in the striatum of ROT-treated rats. As expected, nerolidol supplementation to ROT-injected rats significantly increased the level of SOD, CAT, and GSH, and decreased the level of MDA. Nerolidol also inhibited the release of proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators. Finally, nerolidol treatment prevented ROT-induced glial cell activation and the loss of dopaminergic neurons and nerve fibers, and ultimately attenuated ROT-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration.

Conclusion

Our findings are the first to show that the neuroprotective effect of nerolidol is mediated through its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which strongly supports its therapeutic potential for the treatment of PD.