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Pourmousavi L, Asadi RH, Zehsaz F, Jadidi RP. Potential therapeutic effects of crocin. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6. [PMID: 38758225 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Crocin, a natural bioactive compound derived from saffron (Crocus sativus) and other Crocus genera, has gained significant attention recently due to its potential therapeutic properties. The multifaceted nature of crocin's biological effects has piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts, prompting further investigations into its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. This review article comprehensively explores the emerging evidence supporting crocin's role as a promising ally in protecting against metabolic disorders. The review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying crocin's beneficial effects and highlights its potential applications in preventing and treating diverse pathological conditions. Understanding the mechanisms through which crocin exerts its protective effects could advance scientific knowledge and offer potential avenues for developing novel therapeutic interventions. As we uncover the potential of crocin as a valuable ally in the fight against disorders, it becomes evident that nature's palette holds remarkable solutions for enhancing our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Pourmousavi
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Zehsaz
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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Bej E, Volpe AR, Cesare P, Cimini A, d'Angelo M, Castelli V. Therapeutic potential of saffron in brain disorders: From bench to bedside. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2482-2495. [PMID: 38446350 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus L., which has been used for centuries as a coloring and flavoring agent, as well as a source of medicinal compounds. Saffron contains various bioactive constituents, such as crocin, crocetin, safranal, picrocrocin, and kaempferol, that have shown potential benefits for human health. Among them, crocin is the most abundant and characteristic constituent of saffron, responsible for its bright red color and antioxidant properties. One of the most promising applications of saffron and its constituents is in the prevention and treatment of neurological disorders, such as depression, anxiety, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other brain disorders. Saffron and its constituents have been reported to exert neuroprotective effects through various mechanisms, such as modulating neurotransmitters, enhancing neurogenesis, reducing neuroinflammation, regulating oxidative stress, activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and modulating epigenetic factors. Several clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of saffron and its constituents in improving cognitive function, mood, and other neurological outcomes. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the therapeutic potential of saffron and its constituents in neurological disorders, from bench to bedside. We also discuss the challenges and future directions for the development of saffron-based therapies for brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erjola Bej
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Volpe
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Patrizia Cesare
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Annamaria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Michele d'Angelo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vanessa Castelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Asdaq SMB, Mannasaheb BA, Orfali R, Shaikh IA, Alshehri A, Alghamdi A, Alrashdi MM, Almadani ME, Abdalla FMA. Antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Crocin in high-fat diet plus streptozotocin-induced type-2 diabetic rats. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2024; 38:3946320231220178. [PMID: 38233742 PMCID: PMC10798082 DOI: 10.1177/03946320231220178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Crocin, the principal water-soluble active constituent of saffron, possesses numerous pharmacological activities. The present investigation examined the potential antidiabetic and antioxidant characteristics of Crocin in rats with type-2 diabetes by administering it orally and intraperitoneally (i.p.). METHODS After 2 weeks of a high-fat diet, streptozotocin (STZ) (i.p., 40 mg/kg) was administered to male adult rats to induce type-2 diabetes mellitus. Body weight and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were measured on days zero, weeks 1, and 2. At the end of 2 weeks of drug administration in their respective groups, fasting insulin and glucose levels were estimated, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was determined. Intraperitoneal glucose (IPGTT) and insulin tolerance tests (ITT) were carried out. Histopathological investigation and biochemical parameters were estimated in pancreatic tissues. RESULTS The Crocin (100 mg/kg) treatment has significantly improved body weight, abatement of FBG, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR. Likewise, Crocin treatment significantly improved the glucose and insulin challenges. We observed a significantly marked elevation in endogenous antioxidant enzymes in Crocin-treated groups. Similarly, Crocin treatment reversed the histopathological changes and restored the normal integrity and function of the pancreas. CONCLUSION The overall finding indicates that intraperitoneal administration of Crocin demonstrated better control of glycemic level and body weight. Further, it has improved insulin levels in the serum and potentiated antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raha Orfali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Ahmed Shaikh
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Alshehri
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Alghamdi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Clinical Pharmacy, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Meshal Mohammed Alrashdi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moneer E Almadani
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Mohammad Ali Abdalla
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
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Goyal A, Verma A, Agrawal A, Dubey N, Kumar A, Behl T. Therapeutic implications of crocin in Parkinson's disease: A review of preclinical research. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 101:1229-1240. [PMID: 36752710 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is among the most common forms of neurodegenerative illness, with present treatment being primarily symptomatic and frequently coming with substantial adverse effects. Neuronal degeneration may arise due to a variety of pathological events, like inflammatory responses, neurotransmitter dysregulation, oxidative damage, mitochondrial malfunction, apoptosis, and genetic factors. The health issue and financial burden brought on by Parkinson's disease can worsen as the population ages. In the search for new and secure therapeutic agents for Parkinson's disease, several natural compounds have been shown to exert considerable neuroprotective benefits. Crocin, a naturally occurring carotenoid molecule, was found to have neuroprotective potential in the therapy of this disorder. Taking into account, the outcomes of various studies and the restorative actions of crocin, the present study emphasized the protective ability of crocin in this disease. Given the strong evidence supporting the neuroprotective ability of crocin, it is inferred that crocin inhibits inflammatory, apoptotic, and antioxidant processes through multiple mechanisms. Therefore, this compound is considered a safe and effective therapeutic choice for neurodegenerative illnesses like Parkinson's disease. However, more research on its efficacy as a treatment of Parkinson's disease is needed, specifically examining its mechanisms and the results obtained in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsas Goyal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Aanchal Verma
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anant Agrawal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nandini Dubey
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhay Kumar
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Bidohli, Uttarakhand, India
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Alsanie WF, Alamri AS, Abdulaziz O, Salih MM, Alamri A, Asdaq SMB, Alhomrani MH, Alhomrani M. Antidepressant Effect of Crocin in Mice with Chronic Mild Stress. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175462. [PMID: 36080230 PMCID: PMC9457951 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the antidepressant property of crocin (Crocetin digentiobiose ester) using a chronic mild stress (CMS)-induced depression model in experimental mice. The tail suspension test (TST) and the sucrose preference test were used to evaluate the antidepressant effect on albino mice of either sex after three weeks of CMS. The period of immobility in the TST and percentage preference for sucrose solution were recorded. By monitoring brain malondialdehyde (MDA) level, catalase (CAT) activity, and reduced glutathione (GSH) level, the antioxidant potential was assessed. Three dosages of crocin (4.84, 9.69, and 19.38 mg/kg) were evaluated. When compared to controls, animals that received crocin administration during three periods of CMS had considerably shorter immobility times during the TST. Crocin treatment also raised the percentage preference for sucrose solution in a dose-dependent manner, bringing it to parity with the conventional antidepressant, imipramine. Animals that received a high dose of crocin had a much greater spontaneous locomotor activity. Furthermore, a high dose of crocin remarkably lowered plasma corticosterone and nitrite levels brought on by CMS. Additionally, high doses of crocin given during CMS greatly enhanced reduced glutathione levels while considerably reducing the brain’s MDA and catalase activities. In conclusion, high doses of crocin may have an antidepressant effect in an animal model through several mechanisms. However, further studies should be carried out to explore the role of neurotransmitters for their antidepressant property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa F. Alsanie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulhakeem S. Alamri
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Abdulaziz
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Magdi M. Salih
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulwahab Alamri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Dariyah 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.M.B.A.); (M.A.)
| | | | - Majid Alhomrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Biomedical Sciences Research (CBSR), Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.M.B.A.); (M.A.)
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Kianmehr M, Mahdizadeh F, Khazdair MR. The effects of Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) and its ingredients on dietary intakes in cardiovascular disease in Iranian population: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Nutr 2022; 9:890532. [PMID: 35990354 PMCID: PMC9386225 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.890532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most common causes of mortality around the world. The aim of this study is to summarize and conclude the clinical evidence regarding the use of Crocus sativus (C. sativus) and its ingredients on cardiovascular risk factors. A systematic search was conducted with PubMed, Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus in the English language from 2015 until September 2021. A fixed-effect or random-effects model were applied to pool standard mean difference (SMD) and its 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Randomized controlled studies that assessed the clinical effects of C. sativus and its ingredients on dietary intake (Energy, Carbohydrate, Protein, and total Fat) in human subjects were included. Seven studies comprising 421 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Pooling of results showed significant effect of saffron on total fat (−0.14; 95% CI: −0.49 to 0.20; I2 = 57.3%) and significant effect of crocin on Energy (0.94; 95% CI: −0.77 to 2.65; I2 = 95.9%), Carbohydrate (0.44; 95% CI: −0.74 to 1.62; I2 = 92.6%), and Protein (−0.04; 95% CI: −0.26 to 0.34; I2 = 0.0%). Present meta-analysis suggests that treatment with crocins is more effective than saffron in energy, carbohydrate, and protein, while saffron is more effective than crocins in fat. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fateme Mahdizadeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Khazdair
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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Shahbaz K, Chang D, Zhou X, Low M, Seto SW, Li CG. Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:825842. [PMID: 35991882 PMCID: PMC9388830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.825842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Shahbaz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Sai Wang Seto
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Reserach Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
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Bastani S, Vahedian V, Rashidi M, Mir A, Mirzaei S, Alipourfard I, Pouremamali F, Nejabati H, Kadkhoda J, Maroufi NF, Akbarzadeh M. An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113297. [PMID: 35738178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Vahedian
- Cancer Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Institute of Biotechnology (FMB-IBTEC) Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Mir
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institutitue of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection - Faculty of Natural Sciences - University of Silesia - Katowice - Poland
| | - Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamileh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Impact of Synthesized AuNPs from Crocin Against Aggregation and Conformational Change in α-Lactalbumin. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10252-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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10
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Kadoglou NPE, Christodoulou E, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. The cardiovascular-protective properties of saffron and its potential pharmaceutical applications: A critical appraisal of the literature. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6735-6753. [PMID: 34448254 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is used in traditional medicine for its healing properties and the treatment of various pathological conditions. The present literature review aimed to summarize and evaluate the preclinical and clinical data regarding the protective effects and mechanisms of saffron and its main components (crocin, crocetin, safranal) on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Many in vitro and animal studies have been conducted implicating antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, and antiinflammatory impact of saffron and its constituents. Notably, there is evidence of direct atherosclerosis regression and stabilization in valid atherosclerosis-prone animal models. However, current clinical trials have shown mostly weak effects of saffron and its constituents on cardiovascular risk factors: (a) Modest lowering of fasting blood glucose, without significant reduction of HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients, (b) moderate/controversial hypolipidemic effects, (c) negligible hypotensive effect, and (d) inconsistent modification of metabolic syndrome parameters. There are important drawbacks in clinical trial design, including the absence of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic tests, the wide variance of doses and cohorts' characteristics, the small number of patients, the short duration. Therefore, large, properly designed, high-quality clinical trials, focusing on specific conditions are required to evaluate the biological/pharmacological activities and firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron and its possible therapeutic uses in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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The Impact of Crocin and Chronic Isolation Stress on Passive Avoidance Memory and Brain Electrical Activity in Male Rats. PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.52547/phypha.26.4.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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12
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Anti-fatigue activity of gardenia yellow pigment and Cistanche phenylethanol glycosides mixture in hypoxia. FOOD BIOSCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2021.100902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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13
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Hadipour M, Bahari Z, Afarinesh MR, Jangravi Z, Shirvani H, Meftahi GH. Administering crocin ameliorates anxiety-like behaviours and reduces the inflammatory response in amyloid-beta induced neurotoxicity in rat. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2021; 48:877-889. [PMID: 33686675 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety, hippocampus synaptic plasticity deficit, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines, are involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The present study is designed to evaluate the possible therapeutic effect of crocin on anxiety-like behaviours, hippocampal synaptic plasticity and neuronal shape, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus using in vivo amyloid-beta (Aβ) models of AD. The Aβ peptide (1-42) was bilaterally injected into the frontal-cortex. Five hours after the surgery, the rats were given intraperitoneal (IP) crocin (30 mg/kg) daily up to 12 days. Elevated plus maze results showed that crocin treatment after bilateral Aβ injection significantly increased the percentage of spent time into open arms, frequency of entries, and percentage of entries into open arms as compared with the Aβ group. In the open field test, the Aβ+crocin group showed a higher percentage of spent time in the centre and frequency of entries into central zone as compare with the Aβ treated animals. Administering crocin increased the number of soma, dendrites and axonal arbores in the CA1 neurons among the rats with Aβ neurotoxicity. Cresyl violet (CV) staining showed that crocin increased the number of CV-positive cells in the CA1 region of the hippocampus compared with the Aβ group. Silver-nitrate staining indicated that crocin reduced neurofibrillary tangle formation induced by Aβ. Crocin treatment attenuated the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA in the hippocampus compared with the Aβ group. Our results suggest that crocin attenuated Aβ-induced anxiety-like behaviours and neuronal damage, and synaptic plasticity loss in hippocampal CA1 neurons may via its anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Bahari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Afarinesh
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zohreh Jangravi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Shirvani
- Exercise Physiology Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Naddafi M, Eghbal MA, Ghazi-Khansari M, Sattari MR, Azarmi Y. Study of the cardioprotective effects of crocin on Human Cardiac Myocyte cells and reduction of oxidative stress produced by aluminum phosphide poisoning. J Pharm Pharmacol 2021; 73:1539-1546. [PMID: 33793778 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgaa066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effects of Crocin as a cardioprotective material against Aluminum phosphide poisoning by reducing the oxidative stress is investigated. METHODS The level of biomarkers of oxidative stress (Catalase, Superoxide dismutase, Malondialdehyde and Protein carbonyl) were measured in the cell culture model on Human Cardiac Myocyte cells to detect the protective effect of crocin. Initially, to define the pure impact of aluminum phosphide poison and crocin on the heart cells, their effects on the biomarkers quantity in cell line were measured, separately, using the standard related kits. Later the effect of crocin with different concentration as a treatment on the oxidative stress biomarkers of the poisoned heart cells were monitored. Note that in pre-treatment case, the crocin was initially added to the cells before poisoning them. Data were analyzed using the analysis of variance method. KEY FINDINGS Results showed that crocin treatment reduced the aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning effect significantly. The treatment resulted in substantial deviation in the biomarkers of oxidative stress at the pre- and post-treatment phases for all groups. The oxidative markers values of the poisoned cells were recovered by crocin treatment. CONCLUSIONS Crocin is proposed as a potentially powerful antioxidant to treat the cardiotoxicity caused by aluminum phosphide poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mastoureh Naddafi
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Eghbal
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sattari
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yadollah Azarmi
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Study of Synergistic and Protective Effects of Three Different Polar Saffron Extracts and Photon Radiation on Human Colorectal Cancer Cells (HT-29) and Normal Human Fibroblasts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER MANAGEMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/ijcm.106845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: There are some hypotheses about radiation-sensitizing and radiation-protective effects of antioxidants. Saffron, dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., is a precious medicinal plant that contains an impressive variety of plant compounds such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal that act as antioxidants. The present study examined the cytotoxic effects of saffron extracts with different polarity and their synergism or protective effects with radiation on a colorectal cancer cell line (HT-29) and normal human fibroblasts. Objectives: The aim was to find a natural agent to improve radiotherapy efficacy. Methods: HT-29 colorectal cancer cells and normal human fibroblasts were cultured in RPMI1640 medium, incubated with different concentrations of different saffron extracts (50-250 µg/ml), and then were exposed to a dose of 8 Gy of X-rays. The cytotoxicity effect was determined by the MTT assay. Results: Saffron extracts decreased cell viability in HT-29 colorectal cancer cells and normal human fibroblasts as a concentration-dependent manner. Combination radiotherapy with polar saffron extract in most doses showed synergistic effects on HT-29 cell death while it did not show any distinctive synergistic effect in normal cells. Semi-polar and non-Polar extracts just in low doses had synergistic effects on tumor cells. These two extracts did not show any protective effects on normal cells. Conclusions: Among the various saffron extracts, polar saffron extract and low doses of non-polar saffron extract in combination with radiation increase radiation sensitivity and cell death in tumor cells, while they do not increase radiation sensitivity in normal cells and even protect normal cells to some extent.
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Kermanshahi S, Ghanavati G, Abbasi-Mesrabadi M, Gholami M, Ulloa L, Motaghinejad M, Safari S. Novel Neuroprotective Potential of Crocin in Neurodegenerative Disorders: An Illustrated Mechanistic Review. Neurochem Res 2020; 45:2573-2585. [PMID: 32940861 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-020-03134-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequently oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis that contribute to neuronal cytotoxicity and degeneration. Recent studies reported that crocin, a carotenoid chemical compound common in crocus and gardenia flowers, has protective effects in neurodegenerative disorders due to its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties in the nervous system. This article reviews the new experimental, clinical, and pharmacological studies on the neuroprotective properties of crocin and its potential mechanisms to modulate metabolic oxidative stress and inflammation in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Kermanshahi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazal Ghanavati
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Abbasi-Mesrabadi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Gholami
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Safari
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat highway, Beside the Milad Tower, P.O. Box: 14496-14525, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Dastgerdi HH, Radahmadi M, Reisi P. Comparative study of the protective effects of crocin and exercise on long-term potentiation of CA1 in rats under chronic unpredictable stress. Life Sci 2020; 256:118018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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18
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Dianat M, Radan M, Mard SA, Sohrabi F, Saryazdi SSN. Contribution of reactive oxygen species via the OXR1 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension: The protective role of Crocin. Life Sci 2020; 256:117848. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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19
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Abedimanesh S, Bathaie SZ, Ostadrahimi A, Asghari Jafarabadi M, Taban Sadeghi M. The effect of crocetin supplementation on markers of atherogenic risk in patients with coronary artery disease: a pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Food Funct 2019; 10:7461-7475. [PMID: 31667483 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo01166h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Molecular mechanisms of atherogenesis are considered to be emerging therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis prevention. Cell and animal studies have shown that crocetin can decelerate atherogenesis. However, the anti-atherogenic properties of crocetin in humans are still ambiguous. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifty clinically diagnosed CAD patients were randomly divided into two parallel groups, crocetin and placebo, who received one capsule of crocetin (10 mg) and placebo per day, respectively, for two months. Serum circulating homocysteine (Hcy) [-1.09 (-1.64 to -0.54) μM, P = 0.001], heart-type fatty acid binding protein (h-FABP) [-2.07 (-2.72 to -1.43) ng mL-1, P = 0.001], intercellular adhesion molecule 1 [-14.92 (-21.92 to -7.92) ng mL-1, P = 0.001], vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 [-18.61 (-29.73 to -7.49) ng mL-1, P = 0.002], and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 [-4.67 (-6.50 to -2.83) pg mL-1, P = 0.001] decreased significantly after the trial in the crocetin group, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) significantly increased [+4.21 (0.68 to 7.73) mg mL-1, P = 0.021]. Also, systolic [-0.21 (-0.32 to -0.10) mmHg, P = 0.001] and diastolic [-0.20 (-0.34 to -0.07) mmHg, P = 0.004] blood pressures decreased significantly in the crocetin group. Nevertheless, clinically significant percentage changes were only observed in Hcy (-15.25 ± 3.15, μM), HDL (-10.70 ± 5.06, mg dL-1), and h-FABP (-21.10 ± 3.09, ng mL-1) in the crocetin group. Furthermore, the relative increase in the gene expressions of sirtuin1 and AMP-activated protein kinase and a decrease in the lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 and nuclear factor-kappa B expression in isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the crocetin group were significant at the end of the trial in comparison with the placebo. CONCLUSION As the first human study, we showed the ability of crocetin to alter the expression of atherogenic genes and endothelial cell adhesion molecules in CAD patients. It appears that crocetin could be considered as a promising anti-atherogenic candidate for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Abedimanesh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Nutritional Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Asghari Jafarabadi
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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20
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In-vitro and in-silico investigation of protective mechanisms of crocin against E46K α-synuclein amyloid formation. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4279-4292. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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21
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Mohammadzadeh L, Abnous K, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Crocin-protected malathion-induced spatial memory deficits by inhibiting TAU protein hyperphosphorylation and antiapoptotic effects. Nutr Neurosci 2019; 23:221-236. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2018.1492772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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22
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Panahi Y, Rajaee SM, Johnston TP, Sahebkar A. Neuroprotective effects of antioxidants in the management of neurodegenerative disorders: A literature review. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:2742-2748. [PMID: 29219206 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is proven that oxidative stress has a pivotal role in the process of neurodegeneration. The use of antioxidants is an attractive method to prevent the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. We searched major databases (PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar) using the keywords of neurodegeneration, oxidative stress, and antioxidant for both review and original studies, which have reported the various beneficial effects of antioxidants. About 70 studies were identified for this review. Among various antioxidants, nine antioxidants with the most applications in research investigations were selected and the major findings concerning their protective effects were reviewed. It is concluded that antioxidants can modify and readjust the oxidative stress in the biological milieu, elicit neuroprotective effects, and positively impact the management of neurodegenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunes Panahi
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mahdi Rajaee
- Gastrointestinal Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Thomas P Johnston
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ghaffari S, Roshanravan N. Saffron; An updated review on biological properties with special focus on cardiovascular effects. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 109:21-27. [PMID: 30391705 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Saffron as a natural product has long been used to impede and treat different disorders including cardiovascular disease (CVDs). Stigma is the most principal part of saffron. Various compounds such as carotenoids and flavonoids are the essential components of saffron stigma. The health benefits of saffron have been shown in previous studies; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the mechanistic aspects of its cardiovascular-health properties. This current comprehensive review focuses on the medicinal applications of saffron, and then the new findings regarding its cardiovascular-health effects and various cellular and molecular mechanisms of action will be debated. METHODS The literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library was performed for all comparative studies since 2000-2018 with the limitations of the English language. RESULTS The results provided new evidence about antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti- atherogenic, anti- apoptotic, anti- hypertensive, and hypolipidemic effects of saffron. Pharmacological effects of saffron are due to a number of ingredients contained within this spice, including safranal, crocetin and crocins. CONCLUSIONS Our study concludes that saffron with wide range of usefulness in medicine may be the potent candidate in the process of new drug production for the treatment of CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samad Ghaffari
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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24
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Feidantsis K, Mellidis K, Galatou E, Sinakos Z, Lazou A. Treatment with crocin improves cardiac dysfunction by normalizing autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis in STZ-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2018; 28:952-961. [PMID: 30017436 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The association of diabetes mellitus (DM) and poor metabolic control with high incidence of cardiovascular diseases is well established. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential cardioprotective effect of crocin (Crocus sativus L. extract) on diabetic heart dysfunction and to elucidate the mediating molecular mechanisms. METHODS AND RESULTS Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were treated with two different concentrations of crocin (10 or 20 mg/kg), while isolated cardiac myocytes exposed to 25 mM glucose, were treated with 1 or 10 μM of crocin. Treatment of STZ-diabetic rats with crocin resulted in normalization of plasma glucose levels, inhibition of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and improvement of cardiac contractile function. Heat Shock Response was enhanced. Myocardial AMPK phosphorylation was increased after treatment with crocin, resulting in normalization of autophagy marker proteins (LC3BII/LC3BI ratio, SQSTM1/p62 and Beclin-1), while the diabetes-induced myocardial apoptosis was decreased. Similar results regarding the effect of crocin on autophagy and apoptosis pathways were obtained in isolated cardiac myocytes exposed to high concentration of glucose. CONCLUSION The results suggest that crocin improves the deteriorated cardiac function in diabetic animals by enhancing the heat shock response, inhibiting apoptosis and normalizing autophagy in cardiac myocytes. Thus, treatment with crocin may represent a novel approach for treating diabetic cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Feidantsis
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece
| | - K Mellidis
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece
| | - E Galatou
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece
| | - Z Sinakos
- Emeritus Professor of Hematology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece
| | - A Lazou
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece.
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25
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Armellini R, Peinado I, Pittia P, Scampicchio M, Heredia A, Andres A. Effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) enrichment on antioxidant and sensorial properties of wheat flour pasta. Food Chem 2018; 254:55-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2018.01.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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26
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Hadipour M, Kaka G, Bahrami F, Meftahi GH, Pirzad Jahromi G, Mohammadi A, Sahraei H. Crocin improved amyloid beta induced long-term potentiation and memory deficits in the hippocampal CA1 neurons in freely moving rats. Synapse 2018; 72:e22026. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.22026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gholamreza Kaka
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Farideh Bahrami
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine; Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | | | - Gila Pirzad Jahromi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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27
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Najafi H, Changizi-Ashtiyani S, Najafi M. Antioxidant activity of omega-3 derivatives and their delivery via nanocages and nanocones: DFT and experimental in vivo investigation. J Mol Model 2017; 23:326. [PMID: 29080914 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-017-3504-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The antioxidant properties of omega-3 were investigated via experimental in vivo and theoretical methods. For experimental evaluation, oxidative stress was induced by 30 min bilateral renal ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion in male Sprague Dawley rats. The oxidative stress was evaluated through measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) levels in renal tissue. In theoretical methods, the reaction enthalpies of antioxidant mechanisms of omega-3 were calculated and the effects of NHMe, OMe, OH, Cl, and Me substituents on its antioxidant activity were investigated. Moreover, the omega-3 delivery potential by carbon and boron nitride nanocages and naocones were evaluated. The experimental results showed that omega-3 administration decreases MDA and increases FRAP levels after their changes by ischemia/reperfusion. Theoretical results indicated that NHMe and OMe substituents can significantly improve the antioxidant activity of omega-3. Also, boron nitride nanocone (BNNC) has higher |∆Ead| values, so it has higher potential for omega-3 delivery. Taken together, the new findings presented here indicate that omega-3 has anti-oxidative properties and NHMe and OMe substituents can improve its antioxidant activity. Moreover, adsorption of omega-3 on the surface of the studied nanostructures was exothermic, and BNNC with higher |∆Ead| values has higher potential for omega-3 delivery. Graphical abstract The interaction and adsorption of BNNC with omega-3 is exothermic and experimentally possible from the energetic viewpoint, so the BNNC with higher |∆Ead| and |∆Gad| values has higher potential for omega-3 delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houshang Najafi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 67148-69914, Iran
| | - Saeed Changizi-Ashtiyani
- Department of Physiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Meysam Najafi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 67148-69914, Iran.
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28
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Yousefsani BS, Pourahmad J, Hosseinzadeh H. The mechanism of protective effect of crocin against liver mitochondrial toxicity caused by arsenic III. Toxicol Mech Methods 2017; 28:105-114. [DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2017.1368054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Sadat Yousefsani
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Jalal Pourahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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29
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Theoretical and Experimental in vivo Study of Antioxidant Activity of Crocin in Order to Propose Novel Derivatives with Higher Antioxidant Activity and Their Delivery via Nanotubes and Nanocones. Inflammation 2017; 40:1794-1802. [DOI: 10.1007/s10753-017-0623-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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30
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Finley JW, Gao S. A Perspective on Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) Constituent Crocin: A Potent Water-Soluble Antioxidant and Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:1005-1020. [PMID: 28098452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Several factors are thought to play roles in the development and course of AD. Existing medical therapies only modestly alleviate and delay cognitive symptoms. Current research has been focused on developing antibodies to remove the aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau protein. This approach has achieved removal of Aβ; however, no cognitive improvement in AD patients has been reported. The biological properties of saffron, the dry stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., and particularly its main constituent crocin, have been studied extensively for many conditions including dementia and traumatic brain injury. Crocin is a unique antioxidant because it is a water-soluble carotenoid. Crocin has shown potential to improve learning and memory as well as protect brain cells. A search of the studies on saffron and crocin that have been published in recent years for their impact on AD as well as crocin's effects on Aβ and tau protein has been conducted. This review demonstrates that crocin exhibits multifunctional protective activities in the brain and could be a promising agent applied as a supplement or drug for prevention or treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finley
- Adjunct Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, 111 Food Science Building, Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
- 14719 Secret Harbor Place, Bradenton, Florida 34202, United States
| | - Song Gao
- Quality Phytochemicals LLC , 13 Dexter Road, East Brunswick, New Jersey 08816, United States
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Ansari FA, Ali SN, Mahmood R. Crocin protects human erythrocytes from nitrite-induced methemoglobin formation and oxidative damage. Cell Biol Int 2016; 40:1320-1331. [DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fariheen Aisha Ansari
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biochemistry; Aligarh Muslim University; Aligarh Uttar Pradesh 202002 India
| | - Shaikh Nisar Ali
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biochemistry; Aligarh Muslim University; Aligarh Uttar Pradesh 202002 India
| | - Riaz Mahmood
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biochemistry; Aligarh Muslim University; Aligarh Uttar Pradesh 202002 India
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32
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Razavi BM, Seydali Seyfabad M, Hosseinzadeh H, Imenshahidi M. Crocin-Induced Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/jjnpp-32801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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33
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Crocin-Induced Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2016. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.32801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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Razmaraii N, Babaei H, Mohajjel Nayebi A, Assadnassab G, Ashrafi Helan J, Azarmi Y. Crocin treatment prevents doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Life Sci 2016; 157:145-151. [PMID: 27297631 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity is well-known as a serious complication of chemotherapy in patients with cancer. It is unknown whether crocin (CRO), main component of Crocus sativus L. (Saffron), could reduce the severity of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess the protective impact of CRO on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. The rats were divided into four groups: control, DOX (2mg/kg/48h, for 12days), and CRO groups that receiving DOX as in group 2 and CRO (20 and 40mg/kg/24h, for 20days) starting 4days prior to first DOX injection and throughout the study. Echocardiographic, electrocardiographic and hemodynamic studies, along with histopathological examination and MTT test were carried out. Our findings demonstrate that DOX resulted in cardiotoxicity manifested by decreased the left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic pressures, rate of rise/drop of LV pressure, ejection fraction, fractional shortening and contractility index, as compared to control group. In addition, histopathological analysis of heart confirmed adverse structural changes in myocardial cells following DOX administration. The results also showed that CRO treatment significantly improved DOX-induced heart damage, structural changes in the myocardium and ventricular function. In addition, CRO did not affect the in vitro antitumor activity of DOX. Taken together, our data confirm that CRO is protective against cardiovascular-related disorders produced by DOX, and clinical studies are needed to examine these findings in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasser Razmaraii
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665811, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166614756, Iran
| | - Hossein Babaei
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665811, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166414766, Iran.
| | | | - Gholamreza Assadnassab
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz 5157944533, Iran
| | - Javad Ashrafi Helan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166617564, Iran
| | - Yadollah Azarmi
- School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5166414766, Iran
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Yari A, Sarveazad A, Asadi E, Raouf Sarshoori J, Babahajian A, Amini N, Amidi F, Bahadoran H, Joghataei MT, Asadi MH, Shams A. Efficacy of Crocus sativus L. on reduction of cadmium-induced toxicity on spermatogenesis in adult rats. Andrologia 2016; 48:1244-1252. [PMID: 27135275 DOI: 10.1111/and.12568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal element, which probably cause infertility by impairment in spermatogenesis. The present work aimed (i) to study the toxic effect of cadmium on spermatogenesis in rat, as well as (ii) the protective effect of Crocus sativus L. on cadmium-intoxicated rats. Cadmium chloride was administered intraperitoneally during 16 days at intervals of 48 h between subsequent treatments. Crocus sativus L. was pre-treated in both of control and cadmium-injected rats. Animals were sacrificed on day 17 after the first treatment. The left cauda epididymis was removed and immediately immersed into Hank's balanced salt solution for the evaluation of sperm count and viability, and left testis was fixed in 10% formalin for histological evaluation. Following contamination with cadmium, a decrease was observed in the number and viability of cauda epididymis sperm, which were increased by Crocus sativus L. pre-treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, cadmium decreased both cell proliferation and Johnsen Scores in the seminiferous tubules, which were reversed by Crocus sativus pre-treatment (P < 0.05). Furthermore, cadmium-induced decrease in the amount of free serum testosterone as well as an increase in lipid peroxidation activity in the testicular tissue was reversed by Crocus sativus L. (P < 0.05). These findings may support the concept that Crocus sativus L. can improve the cadmium toxicity on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Yari
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - A Sarveazad
- Colorectal Research Center, Rasoule-e-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Asadi
- Department of Embryology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - J Raouf Sarshoori
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah (a.s) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Babahajian
- Liver & Digestive Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - N Amini
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Bahadoran
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah (a.s) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M T Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M H Asadi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah (a.s) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Shams
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
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Baba SA, Ashraf N. Pharmacological Importance of Crocus sativus Apocarotenoids. APOCAROTENOIDS OF CROCUS SATIVUS L: FROM BIOSYNTHESIS TO PHARMACOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-1899-2_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Asadi F, Jamshidi AH, Khodagholi F, Yans A, Azimi L, Faizi M, Vali L, Abdollahi M, Ghahremani MH, Sharifzadeh M. Reversal effects of crocin on amyloid β-induced memory deficit: Modification of autophagy or apoptosis markers. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2015; 139:47-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Bakhtiari AA, Hematian A, Sharifi A. Energy analyses and greenhouse gas emissions assessment for saffron production cycle. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:16184-16201. [PMID: 26070740 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4843-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Population growth and world climate changes are putting high pressure on agri-food production systems. Exacerbating use of energy sources and expanding the environmental damaging symptoms are the results of these difficult situations. This study was conducted to determine the energy balance for saffron production cycle and investigate the corresponding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Iran. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is one of the main spice that historically cultivated in Iran. Data were obtained from 127 randomly selected saffron growers using a face to face questionnaire technique. The results revealed that in 5 years of saffron production cycle, the overall input and output energy use were to be 163,912.09 and 184,868.28 MJ ha(-1), respectively. The highest-level of energy consumption belongs to seeds (23.7 %) followed by chemical fertilizers (23.4 %). Energy use efficiency, specific energy, net energy, and energy productivity of saffron production were 1.1, 13.4 MJ kg(-1), 20,956.2 MJ ha(-1), and 0.1 kg MJ(-1), respectively. The result shows that the cultivation of saffron emits 2325.5 kg CO2 eq. ha(-1) greenhouse gas, in which around 46.5 % belonged to electricity followed by chemical fertilizers. In addition the Cobb-Douglas production function was applied into EViews 7 software to define the functional relationship. The results of econometric model estimation showed that the impact of human labor, electricity, and water for irrigation on stigma, human labor, electricity, and seed on corm and also human labor and farmyard manure (FYM) on flower and leaf yield were found to be statistically significant. Sensitivity analysis results of the energy inputs demonstrated that the marginal physical productivity (MPP) worth of electricity energy was the highest for saffron stigma and corm, although saffron flower and leaf had more sensitivity on chemicals energy inputs. Moreover, MPP values of renewable and indirect energies were higher than non-renewable and direct energies, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Bakhtiari
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Amir Hematian
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Azin Sharifi
- Department of Financial Engineering, Faculty of Financial Sciences, University of Economic Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Christodoulou E, Kadoglou NPE, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. Saffron: a natural product with potential pharmaceutical applications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 67:1634-49. [PMID: 26272123 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recently, a great deal of interest has been developed to isolate and investigate novel bioactive components from natural resources with health beneficial effects. Saffron is the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L. and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine mainly for its healing properties, as well as for the treatment of various pathological conditions. Objectives of the present review are to unravel its therapeutic properties and investigate the potential applications of saffron in contemporary therapy of a wide spectrum of diseases and summarize previous and current evidence regarding the biological/pharmacological activities of saffron and its active ingredients and their possible therapeutic uses. KEY FINDINGS Recent phytochemistry and pharmacological experiments have indicated that crocin and safranal, the major active ingredients of saffron, exert important actions, such as antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic. Unfortunately, the vast majority of those data derive from in vitro studies, whereas a limited number of in vivo experiments support the aforementioned effects. In addition to studies with mechanistic implications, very few clinical trials provide preliminary evidence of saffron potentiality to alleviate depression and increase cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease. SUMMARY The history and structural features of saffron constituents are given in the first part of the review, followed by a comprehensive and critical presentation of the published preclinical and clinical studies and review papers on the pharmacology and possible therapeutic uses of saffron and its main active components crocin and safranal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos P E Kadoglou
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of inherited cardiovascular diseases, The Heart Hospital, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Rahaiee S, Shojaosadati SA, Hashemi M, Moini S, Razavi SH. Improvement of crocin stability by biodegradeble nanoparticles of chitosan-alginate. Int J Biol Macromol 2015; 79:423-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2015.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Salem IB, Boussabbeh M, Neffati F, Najjar MF, Abid-Essefi S, Bacha H. Zearalenone-induced changes in biochemical parameters, oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiac tissue. Hum Exp Toxicol 2015; 35:623-34. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327115597467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycotoxin from Fusarium species commonly found in food commodities and is known to cause reproductive disorders. Several in vivo studies have shown that ZEN is haematotoxic and hepatotoxic and causes several alterations of immunological parameters. Meantime, the available information on the cardiotoxic effects of ZEN is very much limited. In the present study, we investigated the toxic effects of ZEN in heart tissues of Balb/c mice. We demonstrated that ZEN (40 mg kg−1 body weight (b.w.)) increased creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and induced oxidative stress as monitored by measuring the malondialdehyde level, the generation of protein carbonyls, the catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and the expression of the heat shock proteins (Hsp 70). We also demonstrated that acute administration of ZEN triggers apoptosis in cardiac tissue. Furthermore, we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of crocin (CRO), a natural carotenoid, to prevent ZEN-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. In fact, combined treatment of ZEN with different doses of CRO (50, 100, and 250 mg kg−1 b.w.) showed a significant reduction of ZEN-induced toxicity for all tested markers in a dose-dependent manner. It could be concluded that CRO was effective in the protection against ZEN-induced toxicity in cardiac tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ben Salem
- Laboratory for Research on Biologically Compatible Compounds, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
- Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Carthage University, Carthage, Tunisia
| | - M Boussabbeh
- Laboratory for Research on Biologically Compatible Compounds, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
- Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Carthage University, Carthage, Tunisia
| | - F Neffati
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology, Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - MF Najjar
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology, Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - S Abid-Essefi
- Laboratory for Research on Biologically Compatible Compounds, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - H Bacha
- Laboratory for Research on Biologically Compatible Compounds, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
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Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H, Abnous K, Khoei A, Imenshahidi M. Protective effect of crocin against apoptosis induced by subchronic exposure of the rat vascular system to diazinon. Toxicol Ind Health 2014; 32:1237-45. [PMID: 27353299 DOI: 10.1177/0748233714554941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Research has suggested that natural antioxidant, crocin, an active ingredient of saffron, may protect against diazinon (DZN)-induced toxicity. Although increased production of lipid peroxidation by DZN in rat aorta has been shown previously, the effects of DZN on oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in vascular system have not been evaluated. In this study, the effect of crocin on DZN-induced apoptosis in rat vascular system was investigated. The rats were divided into 7 groups: corn oil (control), DZN (15 mg/kg/day, gavage), crocin (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally (i.p.)) + DZN, vitamin E (200 IU/kg, i.p., 3 days a week) + DZN, and crocin (50 mg/kg/day, i.p.). The treatments were continued for 4 weeks. Levels of apoptotic (Bax, caspase 3, and caspase 9) and antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl2) were analyzed by Western blotting. Transcript levels of Bax and Bcl2 genes were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results showed DZN-induced apoptosis by activation of caspase 9 and caspase 3 and by increasing the Bax/Bcl2 ratio (both protein and messenger RNA levels). Crocin and vitamin E inhibited apoptosis induced by DZN. In summary, subchronic exposure to DZN induced caspase-mediated apoptosis, and crocin reduced the toxic effects of DZN by inhibiting apoptosis in aortic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Khoei
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohsen Imenshahidi
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Dianat M, Esmaeilizadeh M, Badavi M, Samarbaf-Zadeh AR, Naghizadeh B. Protective Effects of Crocin on Ischemia-reperfusion Induced Oxidative Stress in Comparison With Vitamin E in Isolated Rat Hearts. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2014; 9:e17187. [PMID: 24872945 PMCID: PMC4036380 DOI: 10.17795/jjnpp-17187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Myocardial Injury caused by ischemia-reperfusion leads to cardiac dysfunction, tissue injury and metabolic changes. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation are accompanied by ischemia-reperfusion injury. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the cardio protective potential effects of crocin in comparison with vitamin E on antioxidant capacity in ischemia-reperfusion of isolated rat hearts. Materials and Methods: Seventy male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into seven groups, including: sham, control and experimental groups treated with different doses of crocin (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) or vitamin E (100 mg/kg) and a combination of crocin (40 mg/kg) with vitamin E (100 mg/kg) that were administrated orally for 21 days. The heart was quickly excised, transferred to a Langendorff apparatus at constant pressure and subjected to 30 minutes of global ischemia followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion. Cardiac damage markers and antioxidant enzymes were measured. Results: The results showed that superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities increased and Mallon de aldehyde (MDA) decreased in animals pretreated by crocin (40 mg/kg) and vitamin E (100 mg/kg). Moreover, there was a significant improvement in post ischemic recovery of antioxidant capacity during reperfusion in rats receiving a combination of crocin (40 mg/kg) and vitamin E (100 mg/kg). Conclusions: The results demonstrated the protective role of crocin on antioxidant capacity, which may partially be related to stability or amplification of antioxidant systems. Like vitamin E, crocin may be beneficial for prevention or treatment of cardiac dysfunction and myocardial infarction in patients with ischemic heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Dianat
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IR Iran
| | - Mahdi Esmaeilizadeh
- Department of Physiology, Diabetic Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IR Iran
| | - Mohammad Badavi
- Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IR Iran
| | - Ali Reza Samarbaf-Zadeh
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IR Iran
| | - Bahareh Naghizadeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IR Iran
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Evaluation of antioxidant activities of bioactive compounds and various extracts obtained from saffron (Crocus sativus L.): a review. Journal of Food Science and Technology 2014; 52:1881-8. [PMID: 25829569 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-013-1238-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L. stigma), the most valuable medicinal food product, belongs to the Iridaceae family which has been widely used as a coloring and flavoring agent. These properties are basically related to its crocins, picrocrocin and safranal contents which have all demonstrated health promoting properties. The present review article highlights the phytochemical constituents (phenolic and flavonoid compounds, degraded carotenoid compounds crocins and crocetin) that are important in antioxidant activity of saffron extracts. However, the synergistic effect of all the bioactive components presence in saffron gave a significant antioxidant activity similar to vegetables rich in carotenoids. Our study provides an updated overview focused on the antioxidant activity of saffron related to its bioactive compounds to design the different functional products in food, medicine and cosmetic industries.
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Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H, Abnous K, Imenshahidi M. Protective effect of crocin on diazinon induced vascular toxicity in subchronic exposure in rat aortaex-vivo. Drug Chem Toxicol 2014; 37:378-83. [DOI: 10.3109/01480545.2013.866139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Alavizadeh SH, Hosseinzadeh H. Bioactivity assessment and toxicity of crocin: a comprehensive review. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 64:65-80. [PMID: 24275090 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 11/09/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Since ancient times, saffron, the dried stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L. has been extensively used as a spice and food colorant; in folk medicine it has been reputed to be efficacious for the alleviation and treatment of ailments. In addition to the three founded major constituents including crocin, picrocrocin and safranal, presence of carotenoids, carbohydrates, proteins, anthocyanins, vitamins and minerals provide valuable insights into the health benefits and nutritional value of saffron. Of the carotenoids present in saffron, highly water-soluble crocin (mono and diglycosyl esters of a polyene dicarboxylic acid, named crocetin) is responsible for the majority of its color, and appears to possess various health-promoting properties, as an antioxidant, antitumor, memory enhancer, antidepressant, anxiolytic and aphrodisiac. It is also worth noting that the crocin principle of saffron exhibited high efficacy along with no major toxicity in experimental models. We would be remiss to not consider the great potential of saffron and crocin, which benefits the cuisine and health of human life throughout the world. The present study provides a comprehensive and updated report of empirical investigations on bioactivities and biological characteristics of crocin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Moallem SA, Afshar M, Etemad L, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Evaluation of teratogenic effects of crocin and safranal, active ingredients of saffron, in mice. Toxicol Ind Health 2013; 32:285-91. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233713500818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Saffron ( Crocus sativus) is a widely used food additive for its color and taste. Crocin and safranal are two main components of this plant. Numerous studies are underway to introduce saffron and its active ingredients as pharmacological agents. Safety assessments of these compounds are important parts of this endeavor. In this study, the effects of crocin and safranal administrations during embryogenesis have been investigated in mice. A total of 75 BALB/c pregnant mice were divided into six experimental and control groups. Four experimental groups received intraperitoneal injection of crocin (200 mg/kg or 600 mg/kg) daily or safranal (0.075 ml/kg or 0.225 ml/kg) on gestational days (GDs) 6 to 15. Control groups received normal saline or paraffin as solvents of crocin and safranal. Dams were dissected on GD18 and embryos were collected. Routine maternal and fetal parameters were recorded. Macroscopic observation of external malformations was also performed. Fetuses were then selected for double skeletal staining with alizarin red and alcian blue. All experimental groups caused significant decrease in length and weight of fetuses when compared with the control groups and revealed malformations such as minor skeletal malformations, mandible and calvaria malformations, and growth retardation. Minor skeletal malformations were the most commonly observed abnormality, which were statistically significant when compared with the control groups ( p < 0.05). The severities of malformations were comparable in the crocin- and safranal-treated groups. This study suggests that crocin or safranal can induce embryonic malformations when administered in pregnant mice. Due to the wide use of saffron, further elaborate studies to understand the malformation mechanisms of these ingredients are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Adel Moallem
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Afshar
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Leila Etemad
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Faculty of Health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ghahghaei A, Bathaie SZ, Kheirkhah H, Bahraminejad E. The protective effect of crocin on the amyloid fibril formation of Aβ42 peptide in vitro. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2013; 18:328-39. [PMID: 23737042 PMCID: PMC6275581 DOI: 10.2478/s11658-013-0092-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Aβ is the main constituent of the amyloid plaque found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. There are two common isoforms of Aβ: the more common form, Aβ40, and the less common but more amyloidogenic form, Aβ42. Crocin is a carotenoid from the stigma of the saffron flower and it has many medicinal properties, including antioxidant effects. In this study, we examined the potential of crocin as a drug candidate against Aβ42 amyloid formation. The thioflavin T-binding assay and electron microscopy were used to examine the effects of crocin on the extension and disruption of Aβ42 amyloids. To further investigate the relationship between crocin and Aβ42 structure, we analyzed peptide conformation using the ANS-binding assay and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. An increase in the thioflavin T fluorescence intensity upon incubation revealed amyloid formation in Aβ42. It was found that crocin has the ability to prevent amyloid formation by decreasing the fluorescence intensity. Electron microscopy data also indicated that crocin decreased the amyloid fibril content of Aβ. The ANS-binding assay showed that crocin decreased the hydrophobic area in incubated Aβ42. CD spectroscopy results also showed that the peptide undergoes a structural change to α-helical and β-turn. Our study shows that the anti-amyloidogenic effect of crocin may be exerted not only by the inhibition of Aβ amyloid formation but also by the disruption of amyloid aggregates. Therefore, crocin could be essential in the search for therapies inhibiting aggregation or disrupting aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezou Ghahghaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.
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Akhtari K, Hassanzadeh K, Fakhraei B, Fakhraei N, Hassanzadeh H, Zarei SA. A density functional theory study of the reactivity descriptors and antioxidant behavior of Crocin. COMPUT THEOR CHEM 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.comptc.2013.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H, Movassaghi AR, Imenshahidi M, Abnous K. Protective effect of crocin on diazinon induced cardiotoxicity in rats in subchronic exposure. Chem Biol Interact 2013; 203:547-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2013.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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