Anti-inflammatory effects of eriodictyol in lipopolysaccharidestimulated raw 264.7 murine macrophages

Eriodictyol attenuates osteoarthritis progression through inhibiting inflammation via the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway

Eriodictyol, a flavonoid distributed in citrus fruits, has been known to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, destabilized medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA model was used to investigate the protective role of eriodictyol on OA. Meanwhile, we used an IL-1β-stimulated human osteoarthritis chondrocytes model to investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of eriodictyol on OA. The production of nitric oxide was detected by Griess reaction. The productions of MMP1, MMP3, and PGE2 were detected by ELISA. The expression of LXRα, ABCA1, PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB were measured by western blot analysis. The results demonstrated that eriodictyol could alleviate DMM-induced OA in mice. In vitro, eriodictyol inhibited IL-1β-induced NO, PGE2, MMP1, and MMP3 production in human osteoarthritis chondrocytes. Eriodictyol also suppressed the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, NF-κB p65, and IκBα induced by IL-1β. Meanwhile, eriodictyol significantly increased the expression of LXRα and ABCA1. Furthermore, eriodictyol disrupted lipid rafts formation through reducing the cholesterol content. And cholesterol replenishment experiment showed that adding water-soluble cholesterol could reverse the anti-inflammatory effect of eriodictyol. In conclusion, the results indicated eriodictyol inhibited IL-1β-induced inflammation in human osteoarthritis chondrocytes through suppressing lipid rafts formation, which subsequently inhibiting PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Multi-omics profiling reveal responses of three major Dendrobium species from different growth years to medicinal components

Dendrobium is a perennial herb found in Asia that is known for its medicinal and ornamental properties. Studies have shown that the stem is the primary medicinal component of Dendrobium spp. To investigate the effect of the species and age of Dendrobium (in years) on the content of its medicinal components, we collected the stems of 1-to-4-year-old D. officinale, D. moniliforme, and D. huoshanense, sequenced the transcriptome, metabolome, and microbiome, and analyzed the data in a comprehensive multi-omics study. We identified 10,426 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with 644 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) from 12 comparative groups and mapped the flavonoid pathway based on DEGs and DAMs. Transcriptomic and metabolomic data indicated a general trend of the accumulation of flavonoids exhibiting pharmacological effects in the three Dendrobium species. In addition, joint metabolome and microbiome analyses showed that actinobacteria was closely associated with flavonoid synthesis with increasing age. Our findings provide novel insights into the interactions of flavonoids of Dendrobium with the transcriptome and microbiome.

Natural Products as Dietary Agents for the Prevention and Mitigation of Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in the Intestinal Barrier

Food intake is a basic need to sustain life, but foodborne pathogens and food-related xenobiotics are also the main health concerns regarding intestinal barrier homeostasis. With a predominant role in the well-being of the entire human body, intestinal barrier homeostasis is strictly regulated by epithelial and immune cells. These cells are also the main intervenients in oxidative stress and inflammation-related diseases in the intestinal tract, triggered, for example, by genetic/epigenetic factors, food additives, pesticides, drugs, pathogens, and their metabolites. Nevertheless, the human diet can also be seen as a solution for the problem, mainly via the inclusion of functional foods or nutraceuticals that may act as antioxidant/anti-inflammatory agents to prevent and mitigate acute and chronic oxidative damage and inflammation. A literature analysis of recent advances in this topic highlights the significant role of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and NF-kB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathways in these biological processes, with many natural products and phytochemicals targeting endogenous antioxidant systems and cytokine production and balance. In this review, we summarized and discussed studies using in vitro and in vivo models of the intestinal tract used to reproduce oxidative damage and inflammatory events, as well as the role of natural products as modulators of Nrf2 and NK-kB pathways.

Structural Analysis and Antioxidant and Immunoregulatory Activities of an Exopolysaccharide Isolated from Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum XZ01

Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum XZ01 (BLSL1) is a new strain (isolated from the intestines of healthy people and deposited with the preservation number GDMCC 61618). An exopolysaccharide, S-EPS-1, was successfully isolated from the strain and then systematically investigated for the first time. Some structural features of S-EPS-1 were analyzed by chemical component, HPLC, ultraviolet, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum analyses. These analyses revealed that S-EPS-1 is a neutral heteropolysaccharide with an α-configuration. It contains mainly mannose and glucose, as well as small amounts of rhamnose and galactose. The molecular weight of S-EPS-1 was calculated to be 638 kDa. Several immunoregulatory activity assays indicated that S-EPS-1 could increase proliferation, phagocytosis, and NO production in vitro. In addition, S-EPS-1 could upregulate the expression of cytokines at the mRNA level through TLR4-mediated activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in RAW 264.7 cells. Finally, S-EPS-1 was demonstrated to exhibit antioxidant activity by ABTS+• scavenging, DPPH• scavenging, and ferric-ion reducing power assays. Furthermore, S-EPS-1 can protect cells from oxidative stress and shows no cytotoxicity. These beneficial effects can be partly attributed to its antioxidant ability. Thus, the antioxidant S-EPS-1 may be applied as a functional food in the future.

A systematic review exploring the mechanisms by which citrus bioflavonoid supplementation benefits blood glucose levels and metabolic complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Citrus bioflavonoids are polyphenolic compounds that are derived from citrus fruits and vegetables. Although they are well known for their powerful antioxidant properties, their effects on glycemic control are not well understood. This review aims to highlight the potential benefits of using citrus bioflavonoids in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its metabolic complications, as well as the medicinal effects of known subclasses of naturally occurring citrus bioflavonoids.

METHODS

In this systematic review, a survey of studies was conducted from January 2012 to February 2023 using various databases (PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus) to determine the effects of citrus bioflavonoid supplementation on reducing oxidative stress, improving lipid profiles, and glycemic index in patients with diabetes mellitus, as well as the proposed mechanisms of action.

RESULTS

The results of the survey indicate that citrus bioflavonoids may have a positive impact on reducing oxidative stress levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to reducing oxidative stress, citrus bioflavonoids may also have a positive impact on other markers of diabetes. For example, studies have shown that they can reduce non-enzymatic protein glycation, which is a process that occurs when glucose molecules bind to proteins in the body.

CONCLUSION

The reduction in oxidative stress that can be achieved using citrus bioflavonoids may help to maintain antioxidant levels in the body, thereby reducing the severity of diabetes and its complications. These findings suggest that citrus bioflavonoids may be a useful complementary therapy for patients with diabetes.

Eriodictyol: a review of its pharmacological activities and molecular mechanisms related to ischemic stroke

Ischemic stroke (IS) is characterized by a prominent mortality and disability rate, which has increased the burden on the global economy to a certain extent. Meanwhile, patients benefit little from the limited clinical strategies of intravenous alteplase and thrombectomy due to the limited therapeutic window. Given this, it is urgent to study new therapeutic methods to intervene in these patients. Eriodyctiol (ERD) is a major natural flavonoid, which widely exists in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs, and has various pharmacological properties. It has been reported that ERD can maintain homeostasis in organisms by exerting neuroprotective and vascular protective effects. Therefore, more and more studies have focused on the pharmacological activity and mechanism of ERD in IS. This paper provides an overview of the plant sources, phytochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, and pathogenesis, as well as the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of ERD in IS. To date, preclinical studies on ERD in diverse cell lines and animal models have established the idea of ERD as a feasible agent capable of specifically ameliorating IS. The molecular mechanisms of ERD to prevent or reduce IS are mainly based on the inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress, autophagy and apoptosis. Nevertheless, the mechanism of ERD against IS is flawed and needs more exploration by the research community. Moreover, well-designed clinical trials are needed to increase the scientific validity of the beneficial effects of ERD against IS.

Phenolic Profile and the Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Properties of Açaí (Euterpe oleracea) Meal: A Prospective Study

The mechanical extraction of oils from Brazilian açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart) produces significant amounts of a byproduct known as "meal", which is frequently discarded in the environment as waste material. Nevertheless, plant byproducts, especially those from oil extraction, may contain residual polyphenols in their composition and be a rich source of natural bioactive compounds. In this study, the phenolic composition and in vitro biological properties of a hydroethanolic açaí meal extract were elucidated. The major compounds tentatively identified in the extract by high-resolution mass spectrometry were anthocyanins, flavones, and flavonoids. Furthermore, rhamnocitrin is reported in an açaí byproduct for the first time. The extract showed reducing power and was effective in scavenging the ABTS radical cation (820.0 µmol Trolox equivalent∙g^-1) and peroxyl radical (975.7 µmol Trolox equivalent∙g^-1). NF-κB activation was inhibited at 10 or 100 µg∙mL^-1 and TNF-α levels were reduced at 100 µg∙mL^-1. However, the antibacterial effects against ESKAPE pathogens was not promising due to the high concentration needed (1250 or 2500 µg∙mL^-1). These findings can be related to the diverse polyphenol-rich extract composition. To conclude, the polyphenol-rich extract obtained from açaí meal showed relevant biological activities that may have great applicability in the food and nutraceutical industries.

Computer-aided drug design combined network pharmacology to explore anti-SARS-CoV-2 or anti-inflammatory targets and mechanisms of Qingfei Paidu Decoction for COVID-19

Introduction

Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. Severe cases of COVID-19 are characterized by an intense inflammatory process that may ultimately lead to organ failure and patient death. Qingfei Paidu Decoction (QFPD), a traditional Chines e medicine (TCM) formula, is widely used in China as anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-inflammatory. However, the potential targets and mechanisms for QFPD to exert anti-SARS-CoV-2 or anti-inflammatory effects remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, Computer-Aided Drug Design was performed to identify the antiviral or anti-inflammatory components in QFPD and their targets using Discovery Studio 2020 software. We then investigated the mechanisms associated with QFPD for treating COVID-19 with the help of multiple network pharmacology approaches.

Results and discussion

By overlapping the targets of QFPD and COVID-19, we discovered 8 common targets (RBP4, IL1RN, TTR, FYN, SFTPD, TP53, SRPK1, and AKT1) of 62 active components in QFPD. These may represent potential targets for QFPD to exert anti-SARS-CoV-2 or anti-inflammatory effects. The result showed that QFPD might have therapeutic effects on COVID-19 by regulating viral infection, immune and inflammation-related pathways. Our work will promote the development of new drugs for COVID-19.

Pharmacologic therapies of ARDS: From natural herb to nanomedicine

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a common critical illness in respiratory care units with a huge public health burden. Despite tremendous advances in the prevention and treatment of ARDS, it remains the main cause of intensive care unit (ICU) management, and the mortality rate of ARDS remains unacceptably high. The poor performance of ARDS is closely related to its heterogeneous clinical syndrome caused by complicated pathophysiology. Based on the different pathophysiology phases, drugs, protective mechanical ventilation, conservative fluid therapy, and other treatment have been developed to serve as the ARDS therapeutic methods. In recent years, there has been a rapid development in nanomedicine, in which nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles have been extensively studied in the treatment of ARDS. This study provides an overview of pharmacologic therapies for ARDS, including conventional drugs, natural medicine therapy, and nanomedicine. Particularly, we discuss the unique mechanism and strength of nanomedicine which may provide great promises in treating ARDS in the future.

Incarvillea compacta Maxim ameliorates inflammatory response via inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway and NLRP3 activation

Incarvillea compacta Maxim is a traditional Tibetan medicine used to treat inflammation-related diseases, such as pneumonia, fever, jaundice, and otitis media. However, no studies have examined its anti-inflammatory mechanism. To validate the anti-inflammatory activity of I. compacta extract (ICE) and its protective effect on acute alcoholic gastritis, Phytochemicals of I. compacta were identified using Ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages were used in vitro along with an in vivo a mouse acute gastritis model. Pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines were measured using the Griess reagent and Cytometric bead array (CBA) assay. Furthermore, inflammation-related molecules were analysed by Western blotting, RNA-Seq, and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The experimental results revealed that ICE decreased the nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, MCP-1, and TNF-α levels in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, and downregulated the expression and phosphorylation of PDK1, AKT, and GSK3β. Moreover, ICE also downregulated the activation of NLRP3. The RNA-Seq analysis revealed that 340 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) response to ICE treatment was enriched in several inflammation-related biological processes. The results of the in vivo mouse acute gastritis model showed that ICE significantly reduced inflammatory lesions in the gastric mucosa and remarkably downregulated the expression of iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 mRNA in gastric tissue. Therefore, the results of this study obtained scientific evidence supporting the use of I. compacta.

Elsholtzia: A genus with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory advantages

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Elsholtzia (family Labiaceae) is an important source of folk traditional Chinese medicine, mainly used to relieve the symptoms of cold, fever, pneumonia and so on. However, currently available data on its traditional and pharmacological advantages have not been comprehensively reviewed.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review provides up-to-date and comprehensive information on the ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, pharmacological properties and toxicity of Elsholtzia, highlights the antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory advantages of the genus, and explores its therapeutic potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Use Google Scholar, Scifinder, PubMed, Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, Web of Science and other online database search to collect the research literatures on application, chemistry and biological activity of Elsholtzia published before December 2021. Their scientific names have been verified using The Plant List and World Flora Online websites.

RESULTS

A total of 42 species of Elsholtzia are widely distributed all over the world, especially in Yunnan Province (China). Since Elsholtzia genus is commonly used in the folk to treat respiratory infectious diseases such as cold and fever, growing numbers of studies have confirmed their antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. So far, about 221 non-volatile compounds and 1008 volatile compounds have been identified from Elsholtzia plants, mainly containing flavonoids and terpenoids showing convincing antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. Further research found that their antibacterial and antiviral spectrums are broad, and volatile oils are considered to be the main antibacterial components. Their anti-inflammatory mechanism is mainly through the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPKs signaling pathways. Toxicological studies have not established its toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

By summarizing the latest information on genus Elsholtzia, their traditional uses, material basis and mechanisms of action in antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory aspects were described, providing new insights for the genus and its importance as a potential natural resource of antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs, giving evidence and new ideas for the development of herbal medicines.

Analysis of the different growth years accumulation of flavonoids in Dendrobium moniliforme (L.) Sw. by the integration of metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches

Dendrobium moniliforme (L.) Sw. is a valuable herbal crop, and flavonoids are primarily distributed as active ingredients in the stem, but the composition and synthesis mechanisms of flavonoids in different growth years are not clear. The accumulation of flavonoids in D. moniliforme from four different years was investigated, using a combined metabolomics and transcriptomics approach in this study. The phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways were significantly enriched in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs). The widely targeted metabolomics technique revealed a total of 173 kinds of flavonoid metabolites. The metabolomics data confirmed the trend of total flavonoids (TF) content in stems of D. moniliforme, with chalcone, naringenin, eriodictyol, dihydroquercetin, and other flavonoids considerably up-accumulating in the third year. Twenty DEGs were detected that regulate flavonoid synthesis and the expression of these genes in different growth years was verified using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Furthermore, a comprehensive regulatory network was built for flavonoid biosynthesis and it was discovered that there is one FLS gene, one CCR gene and two MYB transcription factors (TFs) with a high connection with flavonoid biosynthesis by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). In this study, the correlation between genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and metabolites was revealed, and a new regulatory mechanism related to flavonoid biosynthesis in D. moniliforme was proposed. These results provide an important reference for the farmers involved in the cultivation of D. moniliforme.

Effects of the Treatment with Flavonoids on Metabolic Syndrome Components in Humans: A Systematic Review Focusing on Mechanisms of Action

Diets high in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, have been used to mitigate metabolic syndrome (MetS). Polyphenols are a large group of naturally occurring bioactive compounds, classified into two main classes: non-flavonoids and flavonoids. Flavonoids are distributed in foods, such as fruits, vegetables, tea, red wine, and cocoa. Studies have already demonstrated the benefits of flavonoids on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as cancer cells. The present review summarizes the results of clinical studies that evaluated the effects of flavonoids on the components of the MetS and associated complications when offered as supplements over the long term. The results show that flavonoids can significantly modulate several metabolic parameters, such as lipid profile, blood pressure, and blood glucose. Only theaflavin and catechin were unable to affect metabolic parameters. Moreover, only body weight and body mass index were unaltered. Thus, the evidence presented in this systematic review offers bases in support of a flavonoid supplementation, held for at least 3 weeks, as a strategy to improve several metabolic parameters and, consequently, reduce the risk of diseases associated with MetS. This fact becomes stronger due to the rare side effects reported with flavonoids.

Potential cancer treatment effects of brusatol or eriodictyol combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in colorectal cancer cell

Colorectal cancer is among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in patients today. In the treatment of this disease, combination or multicomponent therapy has been identified as a potential method to improve patient response and delay side effects. The aim of this study was to determine the effects on cell viability of commercial Bru and Erio used together with the anticancer drug 5-FU in the human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell line (HT-29 cell line) for the first time, as far as can be determined from available literature at this time. Additionally, the research seeks to study any potential effects on apoptosis. For this purpose, the effects of independent and combined treatments of the aforementioned agents on cell viability were investigated through the MTT experiment. Apoptotic effects were determined by Annexin V/PI and real-time PCR methods. In addition, a cell cycle analysis was used to determine the distribution of cells in the cycle. Data from experiments for 48 h showed that Bru, alone or in combination with 5-FU, is capable of causing an increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells in HT-29 cells compared to those of Erio alone or in combination with 5-FU. A significant increase in the level of bax and caspase-3 apoptotic genes was also detected in combinations of IC₅₀ concentrations of Bru and 5-FU. These findings suggest that unlike Erio, Bru alone or in combination with 5-FU may be useful for increasing the effects of 5-FU used in the treatment of CRC and to provide data on alternative treatment approaches.

Nutraceutical Eriocitrin (Eriomin) Reduces Hyperglycemia by Increasing Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 and Downregulates Systemic Inflammation: A Crossover-Randomized Clinical Trial

This double-blind, randomized, placebo/controlled, crossover study evaluated the efficacy of Eriomin^® in reducing hyperglycemia and improving diabetes-related biomarkers in individuals with hyperglycemia above 110 mg/dL (mean 123 ± 18 mg/dL). Subjects (n = 30), divided into two groups (Eriomin or Placebo), who received a dose of 200 mg/d of the designated supplement for 12 weeks and, after a washout period of 2 weeks, switched to the other supplement in the following 12 weeks. Assessments of biochemical, metabolic, inflammatory, blood pressure, anthropometry, and dietary parameters were performed at the beginning and end of each intervention. Treatment with 200 mg/d of Eriomin significantly decreased blood glucose (-5%), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (-11%), glucagon (-13%), interleukin-6 (-14%), tumor necrosis factor alpha (-20%), and alkaline phosphatase (-13%); but increased glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) by (17%) (P ≤ .05). At the end of the placebo period, there was a 13% increase in triglycerides (P ≤ .05). Other parameters evaluated did not change with Eriomin or placebo. In conclusion, intervention with Eriomin benefited the glycemic control of prediabetic and diabetic patients, with higher blood glucose levels, by increasing GLP-1 and decreasing systemic inflammation.

Alkannin reverses lipopolysaccharides-induced inflammatory responses by suppressing mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa-B signalling

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease that seriously affects human health worldwide. Meanwhile, inflammation in RAW264.7 cells could lead to the progression of RA. Alkannin (ALK) is derived from Alkanna tinctoria and is known to exert anti-tumor effects. However, the function of ALK in inflammation of RAW264.7 cells remains unclear. Thus, this research sought to investigate the detailed function of ALK in inflammatory responses of RAW264.7 cells. To induce an inflammatory response, RAW264.7 cells were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). MTT assay was applied to examine cell viability. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the levels of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the mechanism underlying ALK function in inflammatory responses was investigated using RT-qPCR and western blotting. The data revealed that LPS significantly increased the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), Interleukin (IL)-1β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-6, whereas ALK reversed this effect. ALK also restored LPS-induced nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activation by inhibiting the downregulation of p-inhibitor kappa B alpha (IκBα). LPS elevated p-extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), phosphorylated p38 (p-p38), and phosphorylated -c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK) levels, which were markedly decreased in the presence of ALK. In summary, Alkannin attenuated LPS-induced inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK signaling. Thus, our research might provide a new theoretical basis for exploring new strategies against RA.

Eriodictyol mediated selective targeting of the TNFR1/FADD/TRADD axis in cancer cells induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor progression and metastasis

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Eriodictyol induces Selective Cytotoxicity to tumor cells.

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Eriodictyol enhances TNFR1 expression in cancer cells.

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Eriodictyol targets TNFR1 to selectively mediate apoptosis and cytotoxicity to cancer cells.

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Eriodictyol reduces tumour burden in experimentally induced lung metastasis in vivo.

While the anti-inflammatory activities of Eriodictyol, a plant-derived flavonoid is well-known, reports on its anti-cancer efficacy and selective cytotoxicity in cancer cells are still emerging. However, little is known regarding its mechanism of selective anti-cancer activities. Here, we show the mechanism of selective cytotoxicity of Eriodictyol towards cancer cells compared to normal cells. Investigation reveals that Eriodictyol significantly upregulates TNFR1 expression in tumor cells (HeLa and SK-RC-45) while sparing the normal cells (HEK, NKE and WI-38), which display negligible TNFR1 expression, irrespective of the absence or presence of Eriodictyol. Further investigation of the molecular events reveal that Eriodictyol induces apoptosis through expression of the pro-apoptotic DISC components leading to activation of the caspase cascade. In addition, CRISPR-Cas9 mediated knockout of TNFR1 completely blocks apoptosis in HeLa cells in response to Eriodictyol, confirming that Eriodictyol induced cancer cell apoptosis is indeed TNFR1-dependent. Finally, in vivo data demonstrates that Eriodictyol not only impedes tumor growth and progression, but also inhibits metastasis in mice implanted with 4T1 breast cancer cells. Thus, our study has identified Eriodictyol as a compound with high selectivity towards cancer cells through TNFR1 and suggests that it can be further explored for its prospect in cancer therapeutics.

Influences of Solubility and Vehicle Carriers on Eriodictyol Pharmacokinetics in Rats

In this study, the pharmacokinetics of oral doses of eriodictyol in 1% sodium carboxymethylcellulose and in saline/PEG400/Tween80 (75/20/5, v/v/v) in rats were compared. The pharmacokinetics of eriocitrin administered as a dissolved solution in water were also characterized. Metabolites of eriodictyol and eriocitrin in whole blood consisted mainly of eriodictyol, homoeriodictyol, and hesperetin glucuronides and ring-fission metabolites. In whole blood, no free nonconjugated flavanone aglycones were detected. Significant differences were observed in the pharmacokinetics of eriodictyol administered as a suspension in 1% sodium carboxymethylcellulose versus administration as a dissolved solution in saline/PEG400/Tween80 (75/20/5, v/v/v). At a dose of 25 mg kg^-1 eriodictyol administered with 1% sodium carboxymethylcellulose, a biphasic pharmacokinetic curve was observed, while only a single concentration peak was observed following an administration of 25 mg kg^-1 eriodictyol dissolved in saline/PEG400/Tween80 (75/20/5, v/v/v). For all trials, the pharmacokinetics of eriodictyol differed from those of eriocitrin dissolved in water.

Eriodictyol Suppresses Porphyromonas gingivalis-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species Production by Gingival Keratinocytes and the Inflammatory Response of Macrophages

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a key pathogen of periodontitis, an inflammatory disease that affects the tooth-supporting tissues. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the flavanone eriodictyol on P. gingivalis-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by gingival keratinocytes and the inflammatory response of macrophages. Porphyromonas gingivalis and H2O2 acted synergistically to induce ROS production by keratinocytes. The presence of eriodictyol significantly attenuated ROS production in a dose-dependent manner. We used a macrophage model to show that eriodictyol decreases the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α induced by P. gingivalis. Evidence has been brought that this anti-inflammatory property of eriodictyol may be related to its ability to prevent the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by P. gingivalis. This periodontal pathogen was also found to be a potent inducer of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) production by macrophages, including MMP-2, MMP-8, and MMP-9. Eriodictyol dose-dependently inhibited the production of all three MMPs. Lastly, eriodictyol inhibited the catalytic activity of both MMP-9 and P. gingivalis collagenase. In conclusion, eriodictyol may be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing and/or treating periodontal disease due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proteinase properties.

Eriodictyol protects skin cells from UVA irradiation-induced photodamage by inhibition of the MAPK signaling pathway

Solar UVA irradiation-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) induces the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), leading to photoaging, however the molecular mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we found that eriodictyol remarkably reduces UVA-mediated ROS generation and protects the skin cells from oxidative damage and the ensuing cell death. Moreover eriodictyol pretreatment significantly down-regulates the UVA-induced MMP-1 expression, and lowers the inflammatory responses within the skin cells. Pretreatment with eriodictyol upregulates the expression of tissue inhibitory metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) and collagen-I (COL-1) at the transcriptional level in a dose-dependent manner. UVA-induced phosphorylation levels of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 leading to increased MMP-1 expression are significantly reduced in eriodictyol-treated skin cells. In addition, eriodictyol pretreatment significantly suppresses inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the activation of MAPK signaling cascades in skin cells. Taken together, our results demonstrate that eriodictyol has both potent anti-inflammatory and anti-photoaging effects.

Extraction, Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Artemisia and Their Biological Significance: A Review

Diverse medicinal plants such as those from the genus Artemisia have been employed globally for centuries by individuals belonging to different cultures. Universally, Artemisia species have been used to remedy various maladies that range from simple fevers to malaria. A survey conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) demonstrated that 80% of the global population is highly reliant on herbal medicine for their primary healthcare. WHO recommends artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT) for the treatment of global diseases such as malaria. Artemisinin is a bioactive compound derived from Artemisia annua leaves. It is a sesquiterpene endoperoxide with potent antimalarial properties. This review strives to instill natural products to chemists and others in diverse fields with a heterogeneous set of knowledge compiled from multifaceted researchers and organizations in literature. In particular, the various Artemisia species and effective extraction, isolation, and characterization methodologies are discussed in detail. An in-depth investigation into the literature reveals that divergent species of Artemisia exhibit a vast array of biological activities such as antimalarial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities. There is substantial potential for bioactive compounds from Artemisia to provide significant relief from differing human ailments, but more meticulous research in this field is needed.

Effect of Eriodictyol on Retinoblastoma via the PI3K/Akt Pathway

Retinoblastoma (RB) is one of the most common intraocular malignancies in children, which causes vision loss and even threatens life. Eriodictyol is a natural flavonoid with strong anticancer activity. Some studies have shown that eriodictyol exerts anticancer effects in glioma, colon cancer, and lung cancer; however, no studies have reported the anticancer effects of eriodictyol on RB. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer activity of eriodictyol against the RB Y79 cell line and its potential mechanism of action. Interestingly, we found that eriodictyol inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of Y79 cells in a dose-dependent manner and decreased the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 proteins in the cells. In addition, eriodictyol-induced apoptosis in Y79 cells was assessed by flow cytometry and immunoblotting. Here, our study revealed that eriodictyol dose dependently inhibited the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Notably, the effect of eriodictyol on RB apoptosis was reversed by a PI3K agonist 740 Y-P. In conclusion, our study shows that eriodictyol effectively inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion and induces apoptosis in RB cell lines, which may be the result of blocking the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Thus, eriodictyol may provide a new theoretical basis for exploring targeted antitumor natural therapies.

Cordycepin inhibits inflammatory responses through suppression of ERK activation in zebrafish

As a natural extract, cordycepin has been shown to play important regulatory roles in many life activities. In the study, the effects of cordycepin on inflammatory responses and the underlying mechanisms was explored using a zebrafish model. In the model of LPS-induced inflammation, cordycepin was found to significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tnf-α, il-1β, il-6, and il-8. Using in vivo imaging model, cordycepin significantly inhibited fluorescent-labeled neutrophils migrating towards injury sites. Furthermore, results showed that the phosphorylation level of ERK protein dramatically decreased after cordycepin treatment. Meanwhile, the ERK inhibitor, PD0325901, significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced inflammatory model and neutrophils migration in the caudal fin injury model. This study indicated the important roles of cordycepin in inhibiting LPS and injury-induced inflammation and preliminarily explained the role of ERK protein in this process.

Flavonoids as potential phytotherapeutics to combat cytokine storm in SARS-CoV-2

Emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, COVID-19, has become the global panic since December 2019, which urges the global healthcare professionals to identify novel therapeutics to counteract this pandemic. So far, there is no approved treatment available to control this public health issue; however, a few antiviral agents and repurposed drugs support the patients under medical supervision by compromising their adverse effects, especially in emergency conditions. Only a few vaccines have been approved to date. In this context, several plant natural products-based research studies are evidenced to play a crucial role in immunomodulation that can prevent the chances of infection as well as combat the cytokine release storm (CRS) generated during COVID-19 infection. In this present review, we have focused on flavonoids, especially epicatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, hesperidin, naringenin, quercetin, rutin, luteolin, baicalin, diosmin, ge nistein, biochanin A, and silymarin, which can counteract the virus-mediated elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines leading to multiple organ failure. In addition, a comprehensive discussion on available in silico, in vitro, and in vivo findings with critical analysis has also been evaluated, which might pave the way for further development of phytotherapeutics to identify the potential lead candidatetoward effective and safe management of the SARS-CoV-2 disease.

Eriodictyol-Amplified 67-kDa Laminin Receptor Signaling Potentiates the Antiallergic Effect of O-Methylated Catechin

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-(3-O-methyl) gallate (1, EGCG3″Me), an antiallergic O-methylated catechin, is present in high quantities in the green tea cultivar "Benifuuki" (Camellia sinensis L.). Previous studies have shown that EGCG3″Me inhibited basophil degranulation mediated through the cell-surface 67-kDa laminin receptor (67LR), but the mechanisms are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effect of EGCG3″Me on IgE/antigen (Ag)-mediated degranulation and the combined effect of EGCG3″Me with eriodictyol (2), a bioactive flavanone. EGCG3″Me inhibited β-hexosaminidase release from the rat basophilic/mast cell line RBL-2H3 stimulated by IgE/Ag and induced acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) activity. This induction was inhibited by anti-67LR antibody treatment. The ASM-specific inhibitor desipramine inhibited EGCG3″Me-induced suppression of degranulation. The soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibitor NS2028 weakened the potency of EGCG3″Me, and the sGC activator BAY41-2272 suppressed degranulation. The ability of EGCG3″Me to induce ASM activity and inhibit degranulation was amplified by eriodictyol. Furthermore, oral administration of the lemon-peel-derived eriodyctiol-7-O-glucoside (3) potentiated the suppressive effect of EGCG3″Me-rich "Benifuuki" green tea on the IgE/Ag-induced passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in BALB/c mice. These results suggest that EGCG3″Me inhibits IgE/Ag-mediated degranulation by inducing the 67LR/sGC/ASM signaling pathway, and eriodictyol amplifies this signaling.

Flavonoids from the Genus Euphorbia: Isolation, Structure, Pharmacological Activities and Structure-Activity Relationships

Plants of the genus Euphorbia are widely distributed across temperate, tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Asia and Africa with established Ayurvedic, Chinese and Malay ethnomedical records. The present review reports the isolation, occurrence, phytochemistry, biological properties, therapeutic potential and structure-activity relationship of Euphorbia flavonoids for the period covering 2000-2020, while identifying potential areas for future studies aimed at development of new therapeutic agents from these plants. The findings suggest that the extracts and isolated flavonoids possess anticancer, antiproliferative, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-venom, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatitis and antioxidant properties and have different mechanisms of action against cancer cells. Of the investigated species, over 80 different types of flavonoids have been isolated to date. Most of the isolated flavonoids were flavonols and comprised simple O-substitution patterns, C-methylation and prenylation. Others had a glycoside, glycosidic linkages and a carbohydrate attached at either C-3 or C-7, and were designated as d-glucose, l-rhamnose or glucorhamnose. The structure-activity relationship studies showed that methylation of the hydroxyl groups on C-3 or C-7 reduces the activities while glycosylation loses the activity and that the parent skeletal structure is essential in retaining the activity. These constituents can therefore offer potential alternative scaffolds towards development of new Euphorbia-based therapeutic agents.

Quality markers based on phytochemical analysis and anti-inflammatory screening: An integrated strategy for the quality control of Dalbergia odorifera by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS

BACKGROUND

Quality control, key for the clinical application of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), should be connected to the authentication and efficacy of TCMs. The heartwood of Dalbergia odorifera has been widely used to treat inflammation-related diseases. However, in the Chinese pharmacopeia, only the total volatile oil, which does not sufficiently reflect the clinical efficacy, is used as a quality control indicator.

PURPOSE

Establishing a "phytochemical-specificity-effectiveness-Q-marker" analytical strategy to improve the quality control of D. odorifera.

METHODS

Combined with biosynthetic pathway analysis, phytochemical compositions identified by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS were used to build substantial phytochemical groups and further discover specific Q-markers. Then, lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells were used to screen effective anti-inflammatory ingredients. Finally, a UHPLC-HRMS method was developed and validated to quantify the selected Q-markers in D. odorifera samples.

RESULTS

Along the constructed biosynthetic pathways, 93 phytochemical components were identified in D. odorifera, including 7 chalcones, 13 flavanones, 21 isoflavones, 21 isoflavanones, 3 flavonols, 19 neoflavones, etc. Among them, 31 compounds representing these 6 categories were further evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activities. It revealed that the extract of D. odorifera and nine flavonoids in the noncytotoxic range could alleviated lipopolysaccharide-stimulated inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells by decreasing the production of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide and interleukin-6. Notably, neoflavones, as species-specific components, exhibited superior anti-inflammatory activities among the representative compounds. Finally, 12 Q-markers (butin, liquiritigenin, eriodictyol, melanettin, naringenin, butein, genistein, 4'-hydroxy-4-methoxydalbergione, isoliquiritigenin, 2,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxybenzophenone, medicarpin, and pinocembrin), which reflect specificity and effectiveness, were successfully quantified in 10 batches of samples from different origins. The origins and consistency of D. odorifera could be efficiently discriminated by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA).

CONCLUSION

The analysis strategy that combines phytochemical analysis with anti-inflammatory screening clarified the therapeutic material basis and discovered Q-markers, which possibly offers a more comprehensive quality assessment of D. odorifera.

Eriodictyol inhibits glioblastoma migration and invasion by reversing EMT via downregulation of the P38 MAPK/GSK-3β/ZEB1 pathway

Eriodictyol (ERD) is a natural flavonoid that exists in many vegetables and fruits, especially citrus fruits. It has been proven to have many pharmacological effects, such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Our previous study showed that eriodictyol could inhibit the proliferation and induce the apoptosis of glioblastoma cells by downregulating the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway and restraining its migration and invasion. However, the mechanism by which eriodictyol prevents glioblastoma metastasis is still unknown. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key process for many cancer metastases; it also confers locomotivity to tumor cells, including glioblastoma. In this study, we found that eriodictyol can suppress the migration and invasion of glioblastoma A172 and U87 MG cell lines by suppressing the EMT markers - N-cadherin and E-cadherin through Wound healing and Transwell assays, Western blot, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Further research revealed that the mechanism could be connected with downregulation of the P38 MAPK/GSK-3β/ZEB1 signaling pathway. These findings can provide a new idea for the treatment of glioblastoma.

Apple Fermented Products: An Overview of Technology, Properties and Health Effects

As an easily adapted culture, with overloaded production in some parts of the globe, apples and their by-products are being redirected to pharmaceutical, canning and beverages industries, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Fermentation is generally considered to increase the bioavailability of bioactive compounds found in apple, by impacting, through a high degree of changes, the product’s properties, including composition and health-promoting attributes, as well as their sensory profile. Probiotic apple beverages and apple vinegar are generally considered as safe and healthy products by the consumers. Recently, contributions to human health, both in vivo and in vitro studies, of non-alcoholic fermented apple-based products have been described. This review highlighted the advances in the process optimization of apple-based products considering vinegar, cider, pomace, probiotic beverages and spirits’ technologies. The different processing impacts on physical-chemical, nutritional and sensory profiles of these products are also presented. Additionally, the harmful effects of toxic compounds and strategies to limit their content in cider and apple spirits are illustrated. New trends of fermented apple-based products applicability in tangential industries are summarized.

Pharmacological Activity of Eriodictyol: The Major Natural Polyphenolic Flavanone

Eriodictyol is a flavonoid that belongs to a subclass of flavanones and is widespread in citrus fruits, vegetables, and medicinally important plants. Eriodictyol has been anticipated to explain the method of its activity via multiple cellular signaling cascades. Eriodictyol is an effective natural drug source to maintain higher health standards due to its excellent therapeutic roles in neuroprotection, cardioprotective activity, hepatoprotective activity, antidiabetes and obesity, and skin protection and having highly analgesic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, antipyretic and antinociceptive actions, antitumor activity, and much more. This review aims to highlight the modes of action of eriodictyol against various diseases via multiple cellular signaling pathways.

The upshot of Polyphenolic compounds on immunity amid COVID-19 pandemic and other emerging communicable diseases: An appraisal

Polyphenols are a large family of more than 10,000 naturally occurring compounds, which exert countless pharmacological, biological and physiological benefits for human health including several chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Their role in traditional medicine, such as the use of a wide range of remedial herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, mint, basil), has been well and long known for treating common respiratory problems and cold infections. This review reports on the most highlighted polyphenolic compounds present in up to date literature and their specific antiviral perceptive properties that might enhance the body immunity facing COVID-19, and other viral infectious diseases. In fact, several studies and clinical trials increasingly proved the role of polyphenols in controlling numerous human pathogens including SARS and MERS, which are quite similar to COVID-19 through the enhancement of host immune response against viral infections by different biological mechanisms. Thus, polyphenols ought to be considered as a potential and valuable source for designing new drugs that could be used effectively in the combat against COVID-19 and other rigorous diseases.

In silico molecular docking analysis for repurposing therapeutics against multiple proteins from SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2 has devastated the world with its rapid spread and fatality. The researchers across the globe are struggling hard to search a drug to treat this infection. Understanding the time constraint, the best approach is to study clinically approved drugs for control of this deadly pandemic of COVID 19. The repurposing of such drugs can be supported with the study of molecular interactions to enhance the possibility of application. The present work is a molecular docking study of proteins responsible for viral propagation namely 3Clpro, Nsp10/16, Spike protein, SARS protein receptor binding domain, Nsp 9 viral single strand binding protein and viral helicase. The protein through virus enters the host cell-human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, is also used as a target for molecular docking. The docking was done with most discussed drugs for SARS-CoV-2 like Ritonavir, Lopinavir, Remdesivir, Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), routine antiviral drugs like Oseltamivir and Ribavirin. In addition, small molecules with anti-inflammatory actions like Mycophenolic acid (MPA), Pemirolast, Isoniazid and Eriodictyol were also tested. The generated data confirms the potential of Ritonavir, Lopinavir and Remdesivir as a therapeutic candidate against SARS-CoV-2. It is observed that Eriodictyol binds to almost all selected target proteins with good binding energy, suggesting its importance in treatment of COVID 19. Molecular interactions of Ritonavir, Lopinavir and Remdesivir against SARS-CoV-2 proteins enhanced their potential as a candidate drug for treatment of COVID-19. Eriodictyol had emerged as a new repurposing drug that can be used in COVID-19.

Changes in Autofluorescence Level of Live and Dead Cells for Mouse Cell Lines

Label-free characterization of cell subpopulations is a very promising biomedical approach. Nowadays, there are several label-free methods based on different physical properties such as size, density, stiffness, etc. allowing the characterization of biological objects. However, fluorescence properties are the most suitable feature for the label-free study of tissue and cells. Understanding the autofluorescence level peculiarities of normal and pathological / live and dead cells can become a helpful tool for cells' metabolic activity, viability evaluation, and diagnostics of a number of diseases. In this study, we applied a series of mouse cell lines (RAW 264.7 - macrophages, L929 - fibroblasts, C2C12 - myoblasts, and B16-F10 - melanoma) to compare cell autofluorescence of live and dead cells under 488 nm laser excitation and found the difference between their autofluorescence depending on a cell state and type.

Eriodictyol suppresses Th17 differentiation and the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

T helper 17 (Th17) cells that express interleukin-17 (IL-17) play a key role in various inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptors γt (RORγt) have an indispensable effect on the differentiation of this cell type, and are thus considered a valuable target in the treatment of Th17-related disorders. In this study, we found that eriodictyol (EDT), a natural flavonoid abundant in citrus fruits and peanuts, was located directly in the binding pocket of RORγt, and induced a conformational change that resulted in the effective suppression of the receptor's activity, thus offering insight into the transcriptional inhibition of RORγt-dependent genes. Consistent with this, EDT dose-dependently (5-10 μM) blocked murine Th17 differentiation, and markedly reduced IL-17A secretion in vitro. Furthermore, this compound has been found to have novel properties for directly inhibiting Th1 cell development and promoting Treg cell differentiation at high doses (≥10 μM). EDT administration significantly decreased the clinical severity in the EAE model, with inhibited demyelination and reduced inflammatory responses in the periphery and in the central nervous system (CNS). In the adoptive transfer model, EDT also remarkably suppressed the Th17 cell infiltration and pathogenicity. Collectively, our data demonstrated that EDT, as an agent for the pharmacological inhibition of RORγt, has great potential for immunomodulation, and for use in the treatment of Th17-mediated autoimmune disease.

The pharmacological and biological roles of eriodictyol

Eriodictyol is a flavonoid in the flavanones subclass. It is abundantly present in a wide range of medicinal plants, citrus fruits, and vegetables that are considered to have potential health importance. Having the considerable medicinal properties, eriodictyol has been predicted to clarify the mode of action in various cellular and molecular pathways. Evidence for the existing therapeutic roles of eriodictyol includes antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, and miscellaneous. Therefore, this review aims to present the recent evidence regarding the mechanisms of action of eriodictyol in different signaling pathways in a specific disease condition. In view of the immense therapeutic effects, eriodictyol may serve as a potential drug source to enhance community health standards.

Effect of Tahiti lime (Citrus latifolia) juice on the Production of the PGF2α/PGE2 and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines involved in Menstruation

Tahiti lemon juice (Citrus latifolia) (TLJ), as a natural source of flavonoids, has been used as an alternative to anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of dysmenorrhea and menstrual excessive bleeding, often associated with an imbalance of the prostaglandins (PG) levels. However, despite the positive effects, the mechanisms that rule menstruation control are still unknown. Therefore, the objectives were to characterize the TLJ and analyze its effect on the production of PGF2α, PGE2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines involved inmenstruation. Flavonoids from TLJ were discriminated by UPLC-DAD-MS/MS (Qq-TOF) and the effects of TLJ were studied in vitro by quantification of the contraction of myoblasts in culture and PGF2α and PGE2 productions. Further, the systemic and menstrual fluid levels of PGF2α, PGE2, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, AK1B1 and AK1C3 enzymes produced by women during the menstrual period were compared after exposition or not to TLJ or meloxicam. The results showed that TLJ induces an increase in the contraction of myoblasts and the PGF2α supernatant level. Regarding in vivo analysis, a higher concentration of PGF2α and an unaltered PGE2 level was also found in the menstrual blood of women treated with TLJ, in contrast with a lower level of PGE2 and PGF2α observed in the meloxicam group. Concerning cytokines, only menstrual TNF-α levels decrease after treatment with TLJ or meloxicam. In conclusion, TLJ may favor the control of menstruation events via a PGF2α mediated muscle contractile response.

Eriodictyol Inhibits Proliferation, Metastasis and Induces Apoptosis of Glioma Cells via PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Glioma is the most common type of malignant brain tumor. Due to its highly aggressive and metastatic features, glioma is associated with poor prognosis and a lack of effective treatments. Eriodictyol, a natural flavonoid compound, has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the anti-tumor effects of eriodictyol and the underlying mechanisms have rarely been reported. In this study, we found that eriodictyol has anti-tumor activity in lung, colon, breast, pancreas, and liver cancer, and most significantly in glioma cell lines. Eriodictyol dose- and time-dependently suppresses cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in U87MG and CHG-5 glioma cells. In addition, eriodictyol induces apoptosis in U87MG and CHG-5 cells, as evaluated by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. Furthermore, eriodictyol downregulates the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the effects of eriodictyol on the apoptosis of glioma cells are enhanced by LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) and reversed by 740 Y-P (a PI3K agonist). In a mouse xenograft model, eriodictyol not only dramatically suppressed tumor growth but also induced apoptosis in tumor cells. In summary, our data illustrate that eriodictyol effectively inhibits proliferation and metastasis and induces apoptosis of glioma cell lines, which might be a result of the blockade of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Hepatoprotection of Mentha aquatica L., Lavandula dentata L. and Leonurus cardiaca L

The phenolic composition of hydroethanolic extracts of Mentha aquatica L., Lavandula dentata L. and Leonurus cardiaca L., obtained from plants grown under organic cultivation, was determined and their hepatoprotective effects were investigated in vitro. L. cardiaca extract was rich in phenylethenoid glycosides, especially lavandolifolioside (254 ± 36 μg/mg), whereas rosmarinic acid and eriodictyol-O-rutinoside were the major phenolic compounds of L. dentata and M. aquatica extracts, accounting for 68 ± 7 μg/mg and 145 ± 22 μg/mg, respectively. These differential phenolic components presumably account for their dissimilar antioxidant properties. While L. cardiaca extract showed moderate biological effects, M. aquatica extract displayed high antioxidant activity in chemical models, and that of L. dentata was effective in counteracting potassium dichromate-induced ROS generation in human hepatocarcinoma cells. Moreover, M. aquatica extract (50 μg/mL) and its mixture (50%/50%) with L. dentata extract displayed an effective cytoprotective effect.

Isolation and Pharmacological Investigation of Compounds From Euphorbia matabelensis

This work deals with the isolation and pharmacological investigations of compounds of Euphorbia matabelensis. After multiple separation process, including thin layer chromatography (TLC), vacuum liquid chromatography, preparative TLC, and high-performance liquid chromatography, 1 diterpene (ingenol) and 2 flavonoids (naringenin and eriodictyol) were obtained from the methanol extracts prepared from the stems and roots of the plant. The structures of the isolated compounds were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and MS measurements and comparison with literature data. All compounds were isolated for the first time from the plant. Eriodictyol was detected for the first time from a Euphorbia species. The compounds were tested for their antiproliferative (on HeLa, C33a, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines) and GIRK channel blocking activities. None of the compounds proved to be active in these test systems.

In vivo anti-inflammatory activity and UPLC-MS/MS profiling of the peels and pulps of Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus are the most famous varieties of netted muskmelon or cantaloupe in Egypt. Cantaloupe has a great reputation as an anti-inflammatory drug for hot inflammation of liver, cough, eczema, and kidney disorders such as ulcers in the urinary tract, and our objective was to confirm this use scientifically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Inflammation was induced in adult male Sprague Dawley rats by subcutaneous injection of 0.05 ml of carrageenan (1% solution in saline) into the plantar surface of the right hind paw 30 min after oral pretreatment of the rats with 95% ethanolic extracts of Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis peels (CCP) and pulps (CCU) and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus peels (CRP) and pulps (CRU) at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg. Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) was used as a standard drug. The effect of the tested samples was measured on the oedema volume, as well as PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β levels. Metabolic profiling of the extracts was performed using UPLC-MS/MS analysis.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of rats with the ethanol extract of the pulps and peels of the two varieties at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg significantly inhibited the carrageenan-induced increase in the oedema volume of the rat paws after 3 h, except for the low dose of the French cantaloupe pulp. CRP at 50 mg/kg caused the most significant reductions in both TNF-α (P < 0.05) and IL-1β (P < 0.001) levels, while CCP caused the most significant reductions in PGE-2 and IL-6 (P < 0.05) levels. Increases in PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β levels were also significantly prevented by indomethacin (10 mg/kg). UPLC-MS/MS facilitated the identification of 44 phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of the chemical and biological study of the peels of Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus.

Effectiveness of Eriomin® in managing hyperglycemia and reversal of prediabetes condition: A double-blind, randomized, controlled study

This study evaluated the potential effectiveness of different doses of Eriomin® on hyperglycemia and insulin resistance associated with other metabolic biomarkers in prediabetic individuals. Prediabetes patients (n = 103, 49 ± 10 years) were randomly divided into four parallel groups: (a) Placebo; (b) Eriomin 200 mg; (c) Eriomin 400 mg; and (d) Eriomin 800 mg. Assessment of biochemical, metabolic, inflammatory, hepatic, renal, anthropometric markers, blood pressure, and dietary parameters were performed during 12 weeks of intervention. Treatment with all doses of Eriomin (200, 400, and 800 mg) had similar effects and altered significantly the following variables: blood glucose (−5%), insulin resistance (−7%), glucose intolerance (−7%), glycated hemoglobin (−2%), glucagon (−6.5%), C‐peptide (−5%), hsCRP (−12%), interleukin‐6 (−13%), TNFα (−11%), lipid peroxidation (−17%), systolic blood pressure (−8%), GLP‐1 (+15%), adiponectin (+19%), and antioxidant capacity (+6%). Eriomin or placebo did not influence the anthropometric and dietary variables. Short‐term intervention with Eriomin, at doses of 200, 400, or 800 mg/day, benefited glycemic control, reduced systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, and reversed the prediabetic condition in 24% of the evaluated patients.

Eriodictyol alleviates lipopolysaccharide-triggered oxidative stress and synaptic dysfunctions in BV-2 microglial cells and mouse brain

Oxidative stress takes part in the development of the neurodegenerative disease. Eriodictyol, a flavonoid, commonly presents in citrus fruits, which was well-known for its various bioactivities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of eriodictyol on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, synaptic dysfunctions, and the potential mechanisms involved. We found that eriodictyol explicitly restored LPS-triggered the decrease of cell viability and the mitochondrial potential as well as inflammation responses via mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways regulated by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Besides, eriodictyol alleviated LPS-induced oxidative stress via NF-E2-Related factor2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Nrf2/Keap1) pathway in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, eriodictyol reduced LPS-elicited synaptic dysfunctions via increasing the expression of silent information regulator 1 (Sirt1). Overall, eriodictyol protects LPS-triggered oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and synaptic dysfunctions partially through MAPKs, NF-κB mediated by ROS, Sirt1, and Nrf2/Keap1 signal pathways, which further supports that eriodictyol is a potentially nutritional preventive strategy for oxidative stress-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Eriodictyol protects H9c2 cardiomyocytes against the injury induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation by improving the dysfunction of mitochondria

Myocardial infarction is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, while myocardial ischemia and timely reperfusion contribute to myocardial injury. The mitochondria are involved in the injury and mediate the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. In order to develop novel therapeutic approaches for myocardial infarction, the present study evaluated the myocardial protective effects of eriodictyol and investigated relevant mechanisms in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. As a result, eriodictyol was observed to improve the H9c2 cardiomyocyte viability and block the leakage of cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase under hypoxia/reoxygenation. In addition, the dysfunction of mitochondria induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation was ameliorated by eriodictyol through suppressing the overload of intracellular Ca²⁺, preventing overproduction of reactive oxygen species, blocking mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, increasing mitochondrial membrane potential level and decreasing ATP depletion. Finally, the apoptosis of H9c2 cardiomyocyte induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation was prevented by eriodictyol through upregulation of the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and downregulation of the expression levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein and caspase-3. These results provided evidence for further investigation on myocardial protection and the treatment of myocardial infarction using eriodictyol.

Eriodictyol Attenuates LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation, Amyloidogenesis, and Cognitive Impairments via the Inhibition of NF-κB in Male C57BL/6J Mice and BV2 Microglial Cells

Eriodictyol, a natural flavonoid mainly distributed in citrus fruits and peanut, has been well-documented with possession of excellent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer bioactivities. This work focus on the protective effects of eriodictyol on LPS-induced neuroinflammation, amyloidogenesis, cognitive impairment, and the potential mechanisms involved. Behavioral tests and histological examinations showed that eriodictyol significantly prevented the memory and neuronal damage triggered by LPS. Consistently, eriodictyol (100 mg/kg) reduced the formation of Aβ_1-42 by 28.37 ± 16.71 pg/mL compared to the LPS group. In addition, high dose eriodictyol (100 mg/kg) also equilibrated the cholinergic system via suppressing AChE activity (0.1996 ± 0.0831 U/mgprot) and elevating ChAT activity (41.81 ± 24.72 U/g) as well as ACh level (5.093 ± 3.531 μg/mgprot) compared to the LPS group. Western blot results indicated that compared to the LPS group, eriodictyol suppressed LPS-induced glial overactivation (84.29% ± 27.21%) and regulated inflammatory mediators and cytokines by inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK pathways. These results indicated that eriodictyol alleviated amyloidogenesis and memory impairment triggered by LPS via inhibiting TLR4, MAPKs, and PI3K/Akt, and activating Sirt1 pathways and thus blocking downstream translocation of NF-κB, which offers a potential nutritional preventive strategy for neuroinflammation diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Identifying Antibacterial Compounds in Black Walnuts (Juglans nigra) Using a Metabolomics Approach

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) is one of the most economically valuable hardwood species and a high value tree for edible nut production in the United States. Although consumption of black walnut has been linked to multiple health-promoting effects (e.g., antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory), the bioactive compounds have not been systematically characterized. In addition, the associations between different black walnut cultivars and their health-promoting compounds have not been well established. In this study, the kernels of twenty-two black walnut cultivars selected for nut production by the University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry (Columbia, MO, USA) were evaluated for their antibacterial activities using agar-well diffusion assay. Among the selected cultivars, four black walnut cultivars (i.e., Mystry, Surprise, D.34, and A.36) exhibited antibacterial activity against a Gram-positive bacterium (Staphylococcus aureus), whereas other cultivars showed no effect on the inhibition of this bacterium. The antibacterial compounds showing the strongest activity were isolated with bioassay-guided purification and identified using a metabolomics approach. Six antibacterial bioactive compounds responsible for antimicrobial activity were successfully identified. Glansreginin A, azelaic acid, quercetin, and eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside are novel antibacterial compounds identified in the kernels of black walnuts. The metabolomics approach provides a simple and cost-effective tool for bioactive compound identification.