Chemopreventive mechanisms of galangin against hepatocellular carcinoma: A review

Yunnan baiyao exerts anti-glioma activity by inducing autophagy-dependent necroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Yunnan Baiyao (YB), a traditional herbal formulation, has been used for over a century to manage bleeding and enhance blood circulation. Its ingredients are widely recognized for their anti-cancer properties. However, its impact on glioma, the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system, remains unexplored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to investigate the anti-glioma activity of YB in vitro and in vivo, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism of action.

METHODS

U-87 MG cells were treated with YB and subjected to cell proliferation assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry with Annexin V/PI staining to confirm anti-glioma activity. The induction of necroptosis and autophagy was confirmed through live-cell imaging, western blotting, and immunofluorescence analysis. The role of apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, and AMPK was validated using specific inhibitors. The in vivo anti-glioma activity of YB was evaluated using subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models in nude mice and chemically induced glioma rat models.

RESULTS

YB induced necroptotic rather than apoptotic cell death in glioma U-87 MG cells, as evidenced by increased phosphorylated MLKL levels and plasma membrane disruptions. Rescue experiments further confirmed the role of necroptosis. Importantly, YB-triggered necroptosis was found to be dependent on autophagy induction, which relies on the AMPK signaling pathway. In line with these findings, YB demonstrated significant anti-glioma activity in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study reveals that YB exerts potent anti-glioma effects both in vitro and in vivo through the induction of autophagy-dependent necroptosis.

Natural compounds combined with imatinib as promising antileukemic therapy: An updated review

Natural products (NP) have been an alternative therapy for several diseases for centuries, and they also serve as an essential source of bioactive molecules, enhancing our drug discovery capacity. Among these NP, some phytochemicals have shown multiple biological effects, including anticancer activity, with higher effectiveness and less toxicity than actual treatments, suggesting their possible use on resilient human malignancies such as leukemia. Imatinib mesylate (Im) is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor widely used as an anticancer drug, the gold standard to attend chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Nevertheless, resistance to this drug in patients with CML renders it insufficient to eliminate cells with Philadelphia chromosome (BCR/ABL+). Moreover, recent studies show that imatinib can induce genotoxic and chromosomic damage in some in vitro and in vivo models. These facts urge finding new therapeutic alternatives to increase the effectiveness of antileukemic treatment. Recent research has shown that the combined effects of phytochemicals with imatinib can improve the cytotoxicity or resensitized the resistant cells to this drug in diverse leukemia cell lines. Independent mechanisms of action among phytochemicals and imatinib include BCR/ABL regulation, downregulation of transcription factors, inhibition of anti-apoptotic and activation of pro-apoptotic proteins, apoptosis induction dependent- and independent of ROS-overproduction, membrane functions disruption, induction of cell cycle arrest, and cell death. This review summarizes and discusses the synergic effect of some phytochemicals combined with imatinib on leukemia cells and the mechanism of action proposed for these combinations, looking to contribute to developing new effective alternatives for leukemia treatment.

Galangin attenuates chlorpyrifos-induced kidney injury by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation and upregulating Nrf2 and farnesoid-X-receptor in rats

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is a highly toxic commonly used pesticide and can seriously harm human health. This study assessed the potential of galangin (GAL), an antioxidant flavonoid, to attenuate oxidative stress, inflammation and kidney injury caused by CPF, emphasizing the role of farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and Nrf2. Rats were supplemented with CPF and GAL for 28 days. CPF increased serum creatinine, urea and Kim-1, provoked several tissue alterations, and increased kidney ROS, malondialdehyde (MDA), NF-κB p65, TNF-α, iNOS, and caspase-3. GAL effectively ameliorated serum kidney injury markers, ROS, MDA, and TNF-α, suppressed NF-κB p65, iNOS, and caspase-3, and enhanced antioxidants. GAL suppressed Keap1 and upregulated FXR, Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO-1 in CPF-administered rats. GAL exhibited binding affinity with Keap1, FXR, caspase-3, iNOS, HO-1, and NF-κB. In conclusion, GAL is effective in preventing CPF nephrotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation. This protection is linked to upregulation of antioxidants, Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and FXR.

THF induces apoptosis by downregulating initiation, promotion, and progression phase biomarkers in skin and lung carcinoma

3,5,7-Trihydroxy-2-phenylchromen-4-one (THF) possesses a diverse range of pharmacological activities. Evidence suggests that THF exerts anticancer activity by distinct mechanisms of action. This study explores the anticancer potential of THF in human lung (A549) and skin (A431) cancer cells by employing different antiproliferative assays. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, neutral red uptake, sulphorhodamine B, and cell motility assays were used to confirm the anticancer potential of THF. Cell target-based and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays were used to explore the effect of THF on the initiation, promotion and progression phase biomarkers of carcinogenesis. THF suppresses the activity of lipoxygenase-5 up to ~40% in both A549 and A431 cells and up to ~50% hyaluronidase activity in A549 cells. qRT-PCR assay reveals that THF inhibits the activity of phosphatidyl inositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin in both cell lines, which is responsible for the initiation of cancer. It also arrests the G2/M phase of the cell cycle in A431 cells and increases the sub-diploid population in both A549 and A431 cell lines which leads to cell death. Annexin V-FITC assay confirmed that THF induces apoptosis and necrosis in A431 and A549 cell lines. Further investigation revealed that THF not only enhances reactive oxygen species production but also modulates mitochondrial membrane potential in both cell lines. It significantly inhibits S-180 tumour formation at 5 and 10 mg/kg bw, i.p. dose. An acute skin toxicity study on mice showed that erythema and edema scores are within the acceptable range, besides acceptable drug-likeness properties and non-toxic effects on human erythrocytes. Conclusively, THF showed potent anticancer activity on skin and lung carcinoma cell lines, suppressed the level of the biomarkers and inhibited tumour growth in mice.

Integrating network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental validation to unveil the molecular targets and mechanisms of galangin for treating hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Galangin, a flavonoid compound, is derived from Alpinia officinarum Hance. Previous studies have shown that galangin can inhibit the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but its mechanism is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of galangin on HCC through network pharmacology, bioinformatics, molecular docking, and experimental in vitro validation.

METHODS

In this study, network pharmacology was used to investigate the targets and mechanisms of galangin in the treatment of HCC. AutoDockTools software was used to simulate and calculate the binding of galangin to its core targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were conducted in the DAVID database to explore the main biological functions and signaling pathways impacted by galangin intervention. In addition, bioinformatics was applied to examine the correlation between the differential expressions of the anti-HCC core targets of galangin and the survival of patients with HCC. Finally, the findings obtained from network pharmacology and bioinformatics were verified in cell experiments.

RESULTS

A total of 67 overlapping target genes of galangin and HCC were identified. Through the analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, 10 hub genes with the highest degree of freedom were identified, including SRC, ESR1, MMP9, CDK4, CCNB1, MMP2, CDK2, CDK1, CHK1, and PLK1. These genes were found to be closely related to the degradation of the extracellular matrix, signal transduction, and the cell cycle. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that galangin exerts an anti-HCC role by affecting various signaling pathways, including the cell cycle, pathways in cancer, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The results of molecular docking indicated a significant interaction between galangin and CCNB1, CDK4, CDK1, and PLK1. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that CCNB1, CDK4, CDK1, and PLK1 were upregulated in the liver of patients with HCC at both the mRNA and protein levels. Flow cytometry analysis showed that galangin induced G0/G1 phase arrest and cell apoptosis in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Additionally, galangin suppressed the expression of key proteins and mRNAs involved in the cell cycle pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that galangin inhibits the growth of HCC cells by arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase.

Flavonoids: A treasure house of prospective pharmacological potentials

Flavonoids are organic compounds characterized by a range of phenolic structures, which are abundantly present in various natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea, and wine. The health advantages of these natural substances are renowned, and initiatives are being taken to extract the flavonoids. Apigenin, galangin, hesperetin, kaempferol, myricetin, naringenin, and quercetin are the seven most common compounds belonging to this class. A thorough analysis of bibliographic records from reliable sources including Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, and others was done to learn more about the biological activities of these flavonoids. These flavonoids appear to have promising anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, cytotoxic, and lipid-lowering activities, according to evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical research. The review contains recent trends, therapeutical interventions, and futuristic aspects of flavonoids to treat several diseases like diabetes, inflammation, bacterial and viral infections, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases. However, this manuscript should be handy in future drug discovery. Despite these encouraging findings, a notable gap exists in clinical research, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the effects of flavonoids at both high and low concentrations on human health. Future investigations should prioritize exploring bioavailability, given the potential for high inter-individual variation. As a starting point for further study on these flavonoids, this review paper may promote identifying and creating innovative therapeutic uses.

Near-infrared-responsive GE11-CuS@Gal nanoparticles as an intelligent drug release system for targeting therapy against oral squamous cell carcinoma

Galangin (Gal) is a natural plant flavonoid. More and more evidence shows that Gal can achieve anti-tumor effects by regulating various mechanisms. However, its poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and insufficient lesion targeting limit its clinical application. To overcome these shortcomings, we designed and developed a mesoporous nanosystem (GE11-CuS) that actively located the target area and photo-controlled drug release, which promoted the rapid accumulation of drugs in tumor tissues under NIR irradiation, thus achieving positive effects against cancer. In this study, we explored the application of the Gal-loaded nanometer system (GE11-CuS@Gal) in the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) both in vitro and in vivo. The results exhibited that GE11-CuS@Gal had excellent targeting ability and could accumulate efficiently in tumor cells (HSC-3). Meanwhile, the temperature of GE11-CuS@Gal increasing rapidly under NIR illumination damaged the integrity of the carrier and allowed Gal molecules to escape from the pores of the nanoparticles. When the accumulation of Gal in the nidus reached a certain level, the intracellular ROS level could be significantly increased and the antioxidative stress pathway mediated by Nrf2/OH-1 was effectively blocked, to inhibit the growth and migration of tumors. In conclusion, the GE11-CuS improved the antitumor activity of Gal in the body, which laid a foundation for the treatment of OSCC with traditional Chinese medicine ingredients.

Human diet-derived polyphenolic compounds and hepatic diseases: From therapeutic mechanisms to clinical utilization

This review focuses on the potential ameliorative effects of polyphenolic compounds derived from human diet on hepatic diseases. It discusses the molecular mechanisms and recent advancements in clinical applications. Edible polyphenols have been found to play a therapeutic role, particularly in liver injury, liver fibrosis, NAFLD/NASH, and HCC. In the regulation of liver injury, polyphenols exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, primarily targeting the TGF-β, NF-κB/TLR4, PI3K/AKT, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways. In the regulation of liver fibrosis, polyphenolic compounds effectively reverse the fibrotic process by inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Furthermore, polyphenolic compounds show efficacy against NAFLD/NASH by inhibiting lipid oxidation and accumulation, mediated through the AMPK, SIRT, and PPARγ pathways. Moreover, several polyphenolic compounds exhibit anti-HCC activity by suppressing tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. This inhibition primarily involves blocking Akt and Wnt signaling, as well as inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, clinical trials and nutritional evidence support the notion that certain polyphenols can improve liver disease and associated metabolic disorders. However, further fundamental research and clinical trials are warranted to validate the efficacy of dietary polyphenols.

Galangin: A food-derived flavonoid with therapeutic potential against a wide spectrum of diseases

Galangin is an important flavonoid with natural activity, that is abundant in galangal and propolis. Currently, various biological activities of galangin have been disclosed, including anti-inflammation, antibacterial effect, anti-oxidative stress and aging, anti-fibrosis, and antihypertensive effect. Based on the above bioactivities, more and more attention has been paid to the role of galangin in neurodegenerative diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, skin diseases, and cancer. In this paper, the natural sources, pharmacokinetics, bioactivities, and therapeutic potential of galangin against various diseases were systematically reviewed by collecting and summarizing relevant literature. In addition, the molecular mechanism and new preparation of galangin in the treatment of related diseases are also discussed, to broaden the application prospect and provide reference for its clinical application. Furthermore, it should be noted that current toxicity and clinical studies of galangin are insufficient, and more evidence is needed to support its possibility as a functional food.

Pharmacological activities and therapeutic potential of galangin, a promising natural flavone, in age-related diseases

BACKGROUND

The extension of average life expectancy and the aggravation of population aging have become the inevitable trend of human development. In an aging society, various problems related to medical care for the elderly have become increasingly prominent. However, most of the age-related diseases have the characteristics of multiple diseases at the same time, prone to complications, and atypical clinical manifestations, which bring great difficulties to its treatment. Galangin (3,5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is a natural active compound extracted from the root of Alpinia officinarum Hance (Zingiberaceae). Recently, many studies have shown that galangin has potential advantages in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, which are common in the elderly. In addition, it also showed that galangin had prospective activities in the treatment of tumor, diabetes, liver injury, asthma and arthritis.

PURPOSE

This review aims to systematically summarize and discuss the effects and the underlying mechanism of galangin in the treatment of age-related diseases.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, SciFinder, Web of Science and CNKI literature database resources, combined with the keywords "galangin", "neurodegenerative disease", "tumor", "diabetes", "pharmacological activity", "drug combination", "pharmacokinetics", "drug delivery system" and "safety", and comprehensively reviewed the pharmacological activities and mechanism of galangin in treating age-related diseases.

RESULTS

According to the previous studies on galangin, the anti-neurodegenerative activity, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protective activity, anti-tumor activity, anti-diabetes activity, anti-arthritis activity, hepatoprotective activity and antiasthmatic activity of galangin were discussed, and the related mechanisms were classified and summarized in detail. In addition, the drug combination, pharmacokinetics, drug delivery system and safety of galangin were furtherly discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

This review will provide reference for galangin in the treatment of age-related diseases. Meanwhile, further experimental research and long-term clinical trials are needed to determine the therapeutic safety and efficacy of galangin.

In Vitro and In Vivo Synergistic Antitumor Activity of Albumin-Coated Oleic Acid-Loaded Liposomes toward Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent cancers, closely associated with cirrhosis and fibrosis. This study aimed to assess the antitumor activity of oleic acid-liposomes (uncoated liposomes) upon coating with albumin against HCC. The in vitro studies revealed the high safety of the prepared uncoated and albumin-coated liposomes to normal HFB-4 cells (EC100 of 35.57 ± 0.17 and 79.133 ± 2.92 µM, respectively) with significant anticancer activity against HepG-2 cells with IC50 of 56.29 ± 0.91 and 26.74 ± 0.64 µM, respectively. The albumin-coated liposomes revealed superior apoptosis induction potential (80.7%) with significant upregulation of p53 gene expression (> 7.0-fold), compared to OA. The in vivo study revealed that the administration of uncoated or albumin-coated liposomes (100 mg/kg) for six weeks markedly retarded the DENA-induced HCC in Wistar albino rates through regulating the liver enzymes, total bilirubin level, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress. Accordingly, the current study supports the in vitro and in vivo chemo-preventive feature of albumin-coated liposomes against HCC through modulation of apoptosis, improvement of the immune response, reduction of inflammation, and restoration of impaired oxidative stress, which is the first reported to the best of our knowledge.

Signaling pathways driving ocular malignancies and their targeting by bioactive phytochemicals

Ocular cancers represent a rare pathology. The American Cancer Society estimates that 3,360 cases of ocular cancer occur annually in the United States. The major types of cancers of the eye include ocular melanoma (also known as uveal melanoma), ocular lymphoma, retinoblastoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. While uveal melanoma is one of the primary intraocular cancers with the highest occurrence in adults, retinoblastoma remains the most common primary intraocular cancer in children, and squamous cell carcinoma presents as the most common conjunctival cancer. The pathophysiology of these diseases involves specific cell signaling pathways. Oncogene mutations, tumor suppressor mutations, chromosome deletions/translocations and altered proteins are all described as causal events in developing ocular cancer. Without proper identification and treatment of these cancers, vision loss, cancer spread, and even death can occur. The current treatments for these cancers involve enucleation, radiation, excision, laser treatment, cryotherapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments present a significant burden to the patient that includes a possible loss of vision and a myriad of side effects. Therefore, alternatives to traditional therapy are urgently needed. Intercepting the signaling pathways for these cancers with the use of naturally occurring phytochemicals could be a way to relieve both cancer burden and perhaps even prevent cancer occurrence. This research aims to present a comprehensive review of the signaling pathways involved in various ocular cancers, discuss current therapeutic options, and examine the potential of bioactive phytocompounds in the prevention and targeted treatment of ocular neoplasms. The current limitations, challenges, pitfalls, and future research directions are also discussed.

A hybrid nanopharmaceutical for specific-amplifying oxidative stress to initiate a cascade of catalytic therapy for pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress (OS) induced by an imbalance of oxidants and antioxidants is an important aspect in anticancer therapy, however, as an adaptive response, excessive glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) acts as an antioxidant against high reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and prevents OS damage to maintain redox homoeostasis, suppressing the clinical efficacy of OS-induced anticancer therapies.

RESULTS

A naturally occurring ROS-activating drug, galangin (GAL), is introduced into a Fenton-like catalyst (SiO₂@MnO₂) to form a TME stimulus-responsive hybrid nanopharmaceutical (SiO₂-GAL@MnO₂, denoted SG@M) for enhancing oxidative stress. Once exposed to TME, as MnO₂ responds and consumes GSH, the released Mn²⁺ converts endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into hydroxyl radicals (·OH), which together with the subsequent release of GAL from SiO₂ increases ROS. The "overwhelming" ROS cause OS-mediated mitochondrial malfunction with a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), which releases cytochrome c from mitochondria, activates the Caspase 9/Caspase 3 apoptotic cascade pathway. Downregulation of JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation levels blocks the JAK2/STAT3 cell proliferation pathway, whereas downregulation of Cyclin B1 protein levels arrest the cell cycle in the G2/M phase. During 18 days of in vivo treatment observation, tumor growth inhibition was found to be 62.7%, inhibiting the progression of pancreatic cancer. Additionally, the O₂ and Mn²⁺ released during this cascade catalytic effect improve ultrasound imaging (USI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), respectively.

CONCLUSION

This hybrid nanopharmaceutical based on oxidative stress amplification provides a strategy for multifunctional integrated therapy of malignant tumors and image-visualized pharmaceutical delivery.

Galangin inhibits programmed cell death-ligand 1 expression by suppressing STAT3 and MYC and enhances T cell tumor-killing activity

BACKGROUND

The flavonoid galangin (3,5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is derived from the root of Alpinia officinarum Hance, an edible and medicinal herb. Galangin has many biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-obesogenic, and anti-oxidant effects. However, the anti-tumor mechanism of galangin remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To elucidate the anti-tumor mechanisms of galangin in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

MTT, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence assays were used to assess the mechanism of galangin inhibiting PD-L1 expression. The effect of galangin on T cell activity was analyzed in Hep3B/T cell co-cultures. Colony formation, EdU, migration, and invasion assays were performed to explore the effect of galangin on cancer progression and metastasis. Anti-tumor effects of galangin were investigated in a xenograft model.

RESULTS

Galangin inhibited PD-L1 expression dose-dependently, which plays a major role in tumor progression. Moreover, galangin blocked STAT3 activation through the JAK1/JAK2/Src signaling pathway and Myc activation through the Ras/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Galangin reduced PD-L1 expression by suppressing STAT3 and Myc cooperatively. Galangin increased the killing effect of T cells on tumor cells in Hep3B/T cell co-cultures. Moreover, galangin inhibited tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through PD-L1. In vivo experiments showed that galangin suppressed tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

Galangin enhances T-cell activity and inhibits tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through PD-L1. The current study emphasizes the anti-tumor properties of galangin, offering new insights into the development of tumor therapeutics targeting PD-L1.

Natural products in digestive tract tumors metabolism: Functional and application prospects

Digestive tract diseases are presently the hotspot of clinical diagnosis and treatment, and the incidence of digestive tract tumor is increasing annually. Surgery remains the main therapeutic schedule for digestive tract tumor. Though benefits were brought by neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a part of patients lose the chance of surgery because of late detection or inappropriate intervention. Therefore, the treatment of inoperable patients has become an urgent need. At the same time, tumor metabolism is an extremely complex and diverse process. Natural products are confirmed effective to inhibit the development of tumors in vitro and in vitro. There are many kinds of natural products and their functions remain not clear. However, some natural products such as polyphenols have been proven to have definite anti-cancer effects, and some terpenoids have definite anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-tumor, and other effects. Therefore, the anti-tumor characteristics of natural products should arouse our high attention. Although there are many obstacles to study the activities of natural products in tumor, including the difficulty in detection or distinguishing each component due to their low levels in tumor tissue, etc., the emergence of highly sensitive and locatable spatial metabolomics make the research and application of natural products a big step forward. In this review, natural products such as phenols, terpenoids and biotinoids were summarized to further discuss the development and therapeutic properties of natural metabolites on digestive tract tumors.

Chinese herbal medicines for treating ulcerative colitis via regulating gut microbiota-intestinal immunity axis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of types of inflammatory bowel disease with high recurrence. Recent studies have highlighted that microbial dysbiosis as well as abnormal gut immunity are crucial factors that initiate a series of inflammatory responses in the UC. Modulating the gut microbiota-intestinal immunity loop has been suggested as one of key strategies for relieving UC. Many Chinese herbal medicines including some of single herb, herbal formulas and the derived constituents have been reported with protective effect against UC through modulating gut microbiome and intestinal immunity. Some clinical trials have shown promising results. This review thus focused on the current knowledge on using Chinese herbal medicines for treating UC from the mechanism aspects of regulating intestinal homeostasis involving microbiota and gut immunity. The existing clinical trials are also summarized.

Application of molecular imprinting polymers in separation of active compounds from plants

Molecular imprinting technique is becoming an appealing and prominent strategy to synthesize materials for target recognition and rapid separation. In recent years, it has been applied in separation of active compounds from various plants and has achieved satisfying results. This review aims to make a brief introduction of molecular imprinting polymers and their efficient application in the separation of various active components from plants, including flavonoids, organic acids, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, anthraquinones, phenolics, terpenes, steroids, and diketones, which will provide some clues to help stimulating research into this fascinating and useful area.

Crosstalk between xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibiting and cancer chemotherapeutic properties of comestible flavonoids- a comprehensive update

Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by metabolic disorder or genetic inheritance. People throughout the world are strongly dependent on ethnomedicine for the treatment of gout and some receive satisfactory curative treatment. The natural remedies as well as established drugs derived from natural sources or synthetically made exert their action by mechanisms that are closely associated with anticancer treatment mechanisms regarding inhibition of xanthine oxidase, feedback inhibition of de novo purine synthesis, depolymerization and disappearance of microtubule, inhibition of NF-ĸB activation, induction of TRAIL, promotion of apoptosis, and caspase activation and proteasome inhibition. Some anti-gout and anticancer novel compounds interact with same receptors for their action, e.g., colchicine and colchicine analogues. Dietary flavonoids, i.e., chrysin, kaempferol, quercetin, fisetin, pelargonidin, apigenin, luteolin, myricetin, isorhamnetin, phloretinetc etc. have comparable IC₅₀ values with established anti-gout drug and effective against both cancer and gout. Moreover, a noticeable number of newer anticancer compounds have already been isolated from plants that have been using by local traditional healers and herbal practitioners to treat gout. Therefore, the anti-gout plants might have greater potentiality to become selective candidates for screening of newer anticancer leads.

Bio-Functional Potential and Biochemical Properties of Propolis Collected from Different Regions of Balochistan Province of Pakistan

Propolis is a well-known resinous natural substance collected by honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) from plants exudations. Variations in chemical composition of propolis are due to different sources from which it is collected and change in climate and geographical location. In this study, different propolis samples were collected from different regions of Balochistan and examined for its chemical composition, total phenolics and total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant potential by using DPPH radical scavenging assay and antimicrobial activity. Bioactive components analysis revealed the presence of steroids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, coumarins, cardiac glycosides, quinones, anthraquinones, terpenoids, tannins, and phlobatannins at different levels. The total phenolics contents were ranged from $2.9343\pm 1.247$ to $6.0216\pm 2.873$  mg GAE g-1, and flavonoid contents were found to be $0.1546\pm 0.087$ to $0.6586\pm 0.329$  mg QE g-1, respectively. The antioxidant ability of each extract was analyzed by their concentration having 50% inhibition ( $I{C}_{50}$ ). The propolis sample P3 possessed lower $I{C}_{50}$ $27.07\pm 0.73$  mg mL−1 with higher % inhibition of DPPH radical, and P8 showed lower % inhibition by having $I{C}_{50}$ $84.43\pm 2.07$  mg mL−1. The antibacterial activity of all samples was analyzed against a wide group of bacteria including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumonia and propolis extract (P4) was highly active against Klebsiella pneumoniae with the maximum diameter of zone of inhibition $20.33\pm 1.52$  mm, and propolis extract (P3) showed maximum zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli $19.06\pm 1.90,$ while propolis extract (P2) was found less active with minimum diameter of zone of inhibition $7.46\pm 1.50\text{mm}$ . The antifungal activity of extract was considered as active against the fungal species. Propolis extract (P3) showed 82% of zone of inhibition against Aspergillus Niger, and propolis extract (P1) was highly active against Aspergillus parasiticus with 80% of zone of inhibition. By comparing the vibration frequencies in wave numbers of the sample spectrograph acquired from an FTIR spectrophotometer, the functional groups present in the extracts were identified. The presence of seven elements (Fe, Zn, Mn, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Cr) was analyzed through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The obtained concentrations were within the permissible ranges established by the World Health Organization. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 80 different compounds belonged to different classes. The obtained results confirmed the imperative potential of propolis which can be used in various biological applications.

The mechanism of ferroptosis regulating oxidative stress in ischemic stroke and the regulation mechanism of natural pharmacological active components

Cerebrovascular diseases, such as ischemic stroke, pose serious medical challenges worldwide due to their high morbidity and mortality and limitations in clinical treatment strategies. Studies have shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated inflammation, excitotoxicity, and programmed cell death of each neurovascular unit during post-stroke hypoxia and reperfusion play an important role in the pathological cascade. Ferroptosis, a programmed cell death characterized by iron-regulated accumulation of lipid peroxidation, is caused by abnormal metabolism of lipids, glutathione (GSH), and iron, and can accelerate acute central nervous system injury. Recent studies have gradually uncovered the pathological process of ferroptosis in the neurovascular unit of acute stroke. Some drugs such as iron chelators, ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) and liproxstatin-1 (Lip-1) can protect nerves after neurovascular unit injury in acute stroke by inhibiting ferroptosis. In addition, combined with our previous studies on ferroptosis mediated by natural compounds in ischemic stroke, this review summarized the progress in the regulation mechanism of natural chemical components and herbal chemical components on ferroptosis in recent years, in order to provide reference information for future research on ferroptosis and lead compounds for the development of ferroptosis inhibitors.

Evaluation of flavonoids as potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease and spike RBD: Molecular docking, ADMET evaluation and molecular dynamics simulations

The 3CLpro main protease and the RDB spike (s) protein of SARS-CoV-2 are critical targets in the treatment of coronavirus 19 disease (COVID-19), as they are responsible for the COVID-19 replication and infection. With this in mind, Molecular docking of 26 natural compounds belonging to the flavonoid family with the 3CLpro and RBD sites of SARS-CoV-2 has been performed. The docking results revealed that the ligands Silibinin, Tomentin A, Tomentin B, 4′-O-methyldiplacone, Hesperidin Amentoflavone and Bilobetin act as a potential inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro, and that the ligands Herbacetin, Morin, Silibinin, Tomentin E, Amentoflavone, Bilobetin, Baicalein and Quercetin can be potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RBD. It has been noticed that three ligands can inhibit both sites of SARS-CoV-2, indicating a great potential of these compounds to combat COVID-19. Moreover, molecular docking has been validated by a new validation method based on visual inspiration. Evaluation of ADMET pharmacokinetic properties and the drug likeness in silico revealed that six compounds could be effective drugs against COVID-19. Finally, the docking results were verified by molecular dynamics simulations and MM-GBSA calculation to confirm the stability of hydrogen bonding interactions with crucial residues, which are essential to overcome SARS-CoV-2. These results could direct researchers toward plant-derived compounds that could be further investigated as therapeutic targets against COVID-19 replication and infection.

Identification of hepatoprotective traditional Chinese medicines based on the structure–activity relationship, molecular network, and machine learning techniques

The efforts focused on discovering potential hepatoprotective drugs are critical for relieving the burdens caused by liver diseases. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an important resource for discovering hepatoprotective agents. Currently, there are hundreds of hepatoprotective products derived from TCM available in the literature, providing crucial clues to discover novel potential hepatoprotectants from TCMs based on predictive research. In the current study, a large-scale dataset focused on TCM-induced hepatoprotection was established, including 676 hepatoprotective ingredients and 205 hepatoprotective TCMs. Then, a comprehensive analysis based on the structure–activity relationship, molecular network, and machine learning techniques was performed at molecular and holistic TCM levels, respectively. As a result, we developed an in silico model for predicting the hepatoprotective activity of ingredients derived from TCMs, in which the accuracy exceeded 85%. In addition, we originally proposed a material basis and a drug property-based approach to identify potential hepatoprotective TCMs. Consequently, a total of 12 TCMs were predicted to hold potential hepatoprotective activity, nine of which have been proven to be beneficial to the liver in previous publications. The high rate of consistency between our predictive results and the literature reports demonstrated that our methods were technically sound and reliable. In summary, systematical predictive research focused on the hepatoprotection of TCM was conducted in this work, which would not only assist screening of potential hepatoprotectants from TCMs but also provide a novel research mode for discovering the potential activities of TCMs.

The Content of Phenolic Compounds and Mineral Elements in Edible Nuts

Edible nuts are an important component of a healthy diet, and their frequent consumption has beneficial impact on human health, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, various factors, including cultivar, climate, soil characteristic, storage and treatment have influence on the chemical composition of nuts. Therefore, nine tree nut types and peanuts commonly available on Polish market were evaluated for phenolic profile and mineral elements content. The concentration of individual phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, aromatic acids and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) was determined by ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography, while the content of macro-elements and trace minerals was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The phenolic profile of analyzed nuts substantially varied depending on the type of nut. The highest total content of all analyzed flavonoids was determined in walnuts (114.861 µg/g), while the lowest in almonds (1.717 µg/g). In turn, the highest total content of all tested aromatic acid was determined in pecans (33.743 µg/g), and the lowest in almonds (0.096 µg/g). Epicatechin and cinnamic acid were detected in the highest concentration in tested nuts. Moreover, in examined nuts (except walnuts and Brazil nuts), the presence of CAPE was confirmed. The tested nuts were also characterized by wide variation in element concentrations. Almonds contained high concentration of macro-elements (13,111.60 µg/g), while high content of trace elements was determined in pine nuts (192.79 µg/g). The obtained results indicate that the tested nuts are characterized by a significant diversity in the content of both phenolic compounds and minerals. However, all types of nuts, apart from the well-known source of fatty acids, are a rich source of various components with beneficial effect on human health.

Potential anti-hepatocellular carcinoma properties and mechanisms of action of clerodane diterpenes isolated from Polyalthia longifolia seeds

Diterpenes are secondary metabolites that have attracted much attention due to their potential biological activities including anti-cancer potential. The aim of the current study is to assess the anticancer potential of the six known clerodane diterpenes (1–6) isolated from Polyalthia longifolia seeds and their underlying molecular mechanisms. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro by using MTT assays. The “two-phase model” with NDEA and PB ad libitum was used for induction of HCC and sorafenib was used as the standard drug. Prophylactic studies were carried out for compounds 4/6 at both low (5 mg/kg b.w) and high (10 mg/kg b.w) doses. Based on the MTT assay results, the two best compounds, 4 and 6, were selected for in vivo studies. The results showed that treatment with compound 4/6 significantly restored the changes in biochemical parameters and liver morphology observed in (NDEA + PB)-induced HCC rats. Additionally, the docking studies showed that compound 4/6 interacted with several key proteins such as MDM2, TNF-α, FAK, thereby inhibiting these proteins and reversing the negative impacts of NDEA. In conclusion, our results suggested that compounds 4 and 6 are potential therapeutic agents for HCC, mostly due to their ability to control typical cancer pathways.

Identification of Antithrombotic Natural Products Targeting the Major Substrate Binding Pocket of Protein Disulfide Isomerase

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is a vital oxidoreductase. Extracellular PDI promotes thrombus formation but does not affect physiological blood hemostasis. Inhibition of extracellular PDI has been demonstrated as a promising strategy for antithrombotic treatment. Herein, we focused on the major substrate binding site, a unique pocket in the PDI b' domain, and identified four natural products binding to PDI by combining virtual screening with tryptophan fluorescence-based assays against a customized natural product library. These hits all directly bound to the PDI-b' domain and inhibited the reductase activity of PDI. Among them, galangin showed the most prominent potency (5.9 μM) against PDI and as a broad-spectrum inhibitor for vascular thiol isomerases. In vivo studies manifested that galangin delayed the time of blood vessel occlusion in an electricity-induced mouse thrombosis model. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation further revealed that the hydroxyl-substituted benzopyrone moiety of galangin deeply inserted into the interface between the PDI-b' substrate-binding pocket and the a' domain. Together, these findings provide a potential antithrombotic drug candidate and demonstrate that the PDI b' domain is a critical domain for inhibitor development. Besides, we also report an innovative high-throughput screening method for the rapid discovery of PDI b' targeted inhibitors.

Hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Alpinia officinarum on nicotinamide/streptozotocin induced type II diabetic rats

OBJECTIVES

Alpinia officinarum Hance, commonly known as lesser galangal, is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) traditionally used for many decades to treat inflammation, pain, stomach ache and cold. In the present study, the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic potentials of the hydroalcoholic extract of A. officinarum (AO) were investigated in the nicotinamide/streptozotocin induced type II diabetic rats.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were divided into following six groups: Group I was normal control rats. Group II: normal diabetic control, Group III: Diabetic rats treated with glibenclamide (0.25 mg/kg), IV, V and VI: Diabetic rats treated with 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg AO hydroalcoholic extract by daily gavage for 28 days, respectively. At the end of treatment, biochemical analysis, histological study, phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity tests were carried out.

RESULTS

The results show significant reduction in blood glucose, serum lipid profiles, and liver enzyme levels in diabetic rats compared with diabetic control in AO treated group.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that AO extract had significant (p<0.05) antidiabetic and anti-hyperlipidemia effects in addition to hepatoprotective effect in type II diabetic rats.

[Dihydromyricetin reduces lipid accumulation in LO2 cells via AMPK/mTOR-mediated lipophagy pathway and inhibits HepG2 cell proliferation in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the mechanism underlying the hepatoprotective effect of dihydromyricetin (DMY) against lipid accumulation in light of the lipophagy pathway and the inhibitory effect of DMY on HepG2 cell proliferation.

METHODS

LO2 cells were cultured in the presence of 10% FBS for 24 h and treated with 100 μg/mL DMY, or exposed to 50% FBS for 24 h followed by treatment with 50, 100, or 200 μg/mL DMY; the cells in recovery group were cultured in 50% FBS for 24 h and then in 10% FBS for another 24 h. Oil red O staining was used to observe the accumulation of lipid droplets in the cells, and the levels of TC, TG, and LDL and activities of AST, ALT and LDH were measured. The expression of LC3 protein was detected using Western blotting. AO staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to determine the numbers of autophagolysosomes and autophagosomes, respectively. The formation of autophagosomes was observed with MDC staining, and the mRNA expression levels of LC3, ATG7, AMPK, mTOR, p62 and Beclin1 were determined with q-PCR. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze the effect of 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL DMY on cell cycle and apoptosis of HepG2 cells; DNA integrity in the treated cells was examined with cell DNA fragmentation test.

RESULTS

DMY treatment and pretreatment obviously inhibited lipid accumulation and reduced the levels of TC, TG, LDL and enzyme activities of AST, ALT and LDH in LO2 cells (P < 0.05). In routinely cultured LO2 cells, DMY significantly promoted the formation of autophagosomes and autophagolysosomes and upregulated the expression of LC3 protein. DMY obviously attenuated high FBS-induced inhibition of autophagosome formation in LO2 cells, up- regulated the mRNA levels of LC3, ATG7, Beclin1 and AMPK, and downregulated p62 and mTOR mRNA levels (P < 0.05 or 0.01). In HepG2 cells, DMY caused obvious cell cycle arrest, inhibited cell proliferation, and induced late apoptosis and DNA fragmentation.

CONCLUSION

DMY reduces lipid accumulation in LO2 cells by regulating the AMPK/ mTOR-mediated lipophagy pathway and inhibits the proliferation of HepG2 by causing cell cycle arrest and promoting apoptosis.

Galangin alleviates rheumatoid arthritis in rats by downregulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that greatly affect patients' quality of life. Galangin extract is renowned for its anti-proliferative and anti-oxidative characteristics. However, galangin cytotoxicity studies are presently inadequate. We aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of galangin on RA by investigating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.Fibroblast-like synovial cells (FLSs) were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish an RA model in vitro. An ELISA assay was used to detect the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by CCK8/EdU and flow cytometry assays. A western blot assay was used to analyze the protein expression levels. An RA rat model was established to evaluate the function of galangin through histopathological examination. Our results found that galangin induced apoptosis, inhibited cell proliferation, and increased cell invasion of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synovial cells (RAFLSs). Galangin inactivated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and the inflammatory response. An agonist of PI3K signaling, 740Y-P, restored the cellular functions of RAFLSs. Moreover, galangin suppressed the development of RA in vivo. Galangin effected its anti-arthritic influence through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Galangin has potential as an alternative treatment for RA.

Galangin mitigates oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in a rat model of methotrexate hepatotoxicity

Methotrexate (MTX) is an efficient chemotherapeutic agent for treating various malignancies and autoimmune diseases. However, the long-term use of MTX can result in hepatotoxicity and this limits its use. Galangin (Gal) is a potent flavonoid with various biological activities; however, its protective effect against MTX hepatotoxicity has not been previously investigated. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective of Gal against MTX-induced liver injury. Rats received Gal for 10 days and a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) at day 7. The administration of MTX induced liver damage reflected by increased serum biomarkers of liver function and histopathological manifestations. MTX increased hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), and diminished GSH and antioxidant enzymes. Gal relieved liver injury, ameliorated liver function, oxidative stress, and inflammation markers, and increased antioxidants in MTX-treated rats. In addition, Gal decreased the expression of inflammation and apoptosis markers in MTX-treated rats. In conclusion, Gal possesses a hepatoprotective effect mediated by attenuating oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis in rats.

The effects of galangin in prepulse inhibition test and experimental schizophrenia models

OBJECTIVE

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are the focus of interest in the management of schizophrenia. We aimed to investigate the effects of acute galangin administration, a flavonoid compound with acetylcholinesterase inhibiting activity, on schizophrenia-associated cognitive deficits in rats and schizophrenia models in mice.

METHODS

Apomorphine-induced prepulse inhibition (PPI) disruption for cognitive functions, nicotinic, muscarinic, and serotonergic mechanism involvement, and brain acetylcholine levels were investigated in Wistar rats. Apomorphine-induced climbing, MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion, and catalepsy tests were used as schizophrenia models in Swiss albino mice. The effects of galangin were compared with acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil, and typical and atypical antipsychotics haloperidol and olanzapine, respectively.

RESULTS

Galangin (50,100 mg/kg) enhanced apomorphine-induced PPI disruption similar to donepezil, haloperidol, and olanzapine (p < 0.05). This effect was not altered in the combination of galangin with the nicotinic receptor antagonist mecamylamine (1 mg/kg), the muscarinic receptor antagonist scopolamine (0.05 mg/kg), or the serotonin-1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (1 mg/kg) (p > 0.05). Galangin (50,100 mg/kg) alone increased brain acetylcholine concentrations (p < 0.05), but not in apomorphine-injected rats (p > 0.05). Galangin (50 mg/kg) decreased apomorphine-induced climbing and MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion similar to haloperidol and olanzapine (p < 0.05), but did not induce catalepsy, unlike them.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that galangin may help enhance schizophrenia-associated cognitive deficits, and nicotinic, muscarinic cholinergic, and serotonin-1A receptors are not involved in this effect. Galangin also exerted an antipsychotic-like effect without inducing catalepsy and may be considered as an advantageous antipsychotic agent.

Role of Phytoconstituents as PPAR Agonists: Implications for Neurodegenerative Disorders

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR-γ, PPAR-α, and PPAR-β/δ) are ligand-dependent nuclear receptors that play a critical role in the regulation of hundreds of genes through their activation. Their expression and targeted activation play an important role in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, diabetes, and cancer. In recent years, several reviews have been published describing the therapeutic potential of PPAR agonists (natural or synthetic) in the disorders listed above; however, no comprehensive report defining the role of naturally derived phytoconstituents as PPAR agonists targeting neurodegenerative diseases has been published. This review will focus on the role of phytoconstituents as PPAR agonists and the relevant preclinical studies and mechanistic insights into their neuroprotective effects. Exemplary research includes flavonoids, fatty acids, cannabinoids, curcumin, genistein, capsaicin, and piperine, all of which have been shown to be PPAR agonists either directly or indirectly. Additionally, a few studies have demonstrated the use of clinical samples in in vitro investigations. The role of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as a potential model for studying neurodegenerative diseases has also been highlighted.

Galangin: A metabolite that suppresses anti-neoplastic activities through modulation of oncogenic targets

With the dramatic increase in cancer incidence all over the world in the last decades, studies on identifying novel efficient anti-cancer agents have been intensified. Historically, natural products have represented one of the most important sources of new lead compounds with a wide range of biological activities. In this article, the multifaceted anti-cancer action of propolis-derived flavonoid, galangin, is presented, discussing its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-angiogenic, and anti-metastatic effects in various cancer cells. In addition, co-effects with standard chemotherapeutic drugs as well as other natural compounds are also under discussion, besides highlighting modern nanotechnological advancements for overcoming the low bioavailability issue characteristic of galangin. Although further studies are needed for confirming the anti-cancer potential of galangin in vivo malignant systems, exploring this natural compound might open new perspectives in molecular oncology.

Plant-Derived Compounds as Promising Therapeutics for Vitiligo

Vitiligo is the most common depigmenting disorder characterized by white patches in the skin. The pathogenetic origin of vitiligo revolves around autoimmune destruction of melanocytes in which, for instance, oxidative stress is responsible for melanocyte molecular, organelle dysfunction and melanocyte specific antigen exposure as well as melanocyte cell death and thus serves as an important contributor for vitiligo progression. In recent years, natural products have shown a wide range of pharmacological bioactivities against many skin diseases, and this review focuses on the effects and mechanisms of natural compounds against vitiligo models. It is showed that some natural compounds such as flavonoids, phenols, glycosides and coumarins have a protective role in melanocytes and thereby arrest the depigmentation, and, additionally, Nrf2/HO-1, MAPK, JAK/STAT, cAMP/PKA, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways were reported to be implicated in these protective effects. This review discusses the great potential of plant derived natural products as anti-vitiligo agents, as well as the future directions to explore.

Ellagitannins, promising pharmacological agents for the treatment of cancer stem cells

Human tumors comprise subpopulations of cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs) that possess stemness properties. CSCs can initiate tumors and cause recurrence, metastasis and are also responsible for chemo- and radio-resistance. CSCs may use signaling pathways similar to normal stem cells, including Notch, JAK/STAT, Wnt and Hedgehog pathways. Ellagitannins (ETs) are a broad group of substances with chemopreventive and anticancer activities. The antitumor activity of ETs and their derivatives are mainly related to their antiinflammatory capacity. They are therefore able to modulate secretory growth factors and pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-6, TGF-β, TNF-α, IL-1β and IFN-γ. Evidence suggests that ETs display their anticancer effect by targeting CSCs and disrupting stem cell signaling. However, there are still few studies in this field. Therefore, high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the ETs on CSCs. This paper reviews the structures, sources and pharmacokinetics of ETs. It also focuses on the function of ETs and their effects on CSCs-related cytokines and the relationship between ETs and signaling pathways in CSCs.

Microbial Transformation of Galangin Derivatives and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Their Metabolites

Galangin (1), 3-O-methylgalangin (2), and galangin flavanone (3), the major bioactive flavonoids isolated from Alpinia officinarum, were biotransformed into one novel and four known metabolites (4–8) by application of the fungal strains Mucor hiemalis and Absidia coerulea as biocatalysts. Their structures were characterized by extensive spectroscopic analyses including one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Compounds 1–7 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. The new compound 3-O-methylgalangin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6) exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity against MCF-7, A375P, B16F10, B16F1, and A549 cancer cell lines with the IC50 values at 3.55–6.23 μM.

Cogent role of flavonoids as key orchestrators of chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma: A review

Chemopreventive approaches with food-derived phytochemicals are progressively rising as a significant aspect of tumor management and control. Herein, we have showcased the major phytoconstituents belonging to the group of flavanoid, as anti-cancer agents used for the treatment and prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Sorafenib is the sole drug used for the treatment of advanced HCC, but its clinical application is limited because of its severe adverse effects and drug resistance. Diet-based chemoprevention seems to be the way forward for this disease of malignant nature. As HCC is derived from a chronic inflammatory milieu, the regular incorporation of bioactive phytochemicals in the diet will confer protection and prevent progression to hepatocarcinogenesis. Many preclinical studies proved that the health benefits of flavonoids confer cytotoxic potential against various types of cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma. As flavonoids with excellent safety profile are abundantly present in common vegetables and fruits, they can be better utilized for chemoprevention and chemosensitization in such chronic condition. This review highlights the plausible role of the eight most promising flavonoids (Curcumin, Kaempferol, Resveratrol, Quercetin, Silibinin, Baicalein, Galangin and Luteolin) as key orchestrators of chemoprevention in hepatocellular carcinoma with preclinical and clinical evidence. An attempt to address the challenges in its clinical translation is also included. This review also provides an insight into the close association of HCC and metabolic disorders which may further decipher the chemopreventive effect of dietary bioactive from a proof of concept to extensive clinical translation. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: According to GLOBOCAN 2020 database, it is estimated that 905,677 new cases of liver cancer and approximately 830,180 deaths related to that. The cancer incidence and mortality are almost similar as it is diagnosed at an advanced stage in patients where systemic drug therapy is the sole approach. Due to the emergence of multidrug resistance and drug-related toxicities, most of the patient can not adhere to the therapy regimen. Flavonoids are known to be a potential anticancer agent with an excellent safety profile. These are found to be effective preclinically against hepatocellular carcinoma through modulation of numerous pathways in hepatocarcinogenesis. But, the bioavailability issue, lack of well designed-validated clinical evidence, the possibility of food-drug interaction etc limit its clinical utility. The research inputs mainly to overcome pharmacokinetic issues along with suitable validation of efficacy and toxicity will be a critical point for establishing flavonoids as an effective, safe, affordable therapeutics.

Ziyuglycoside II exerts antiproliferative and antimetastasis effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Phytochemicals are important candidates for developing anticancer agents. Ziyuglycoside II is a major active compound of Sanguisorba officinalis, which exhibits antiproliferation activity in several cancers; however, its action in HCC remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of ziyuglycoside II against HCC and explored the potential mechanisms. We found that ziyuglycoside II exerts significant inhibitory effects on the viability and clonogenic activity of HCC cells. The proliferation repression mediated by ziyuglycoside II was mainly due to increased apoptosis and reactive oxygen species accumulation, as well as a G0/G1 phase cell-cycle arrest. Additionally, ziyuglycoside II markedly impaired HCC cell migration and invasion, two important steps during metastasis, and these suppressive effects may be attributed to the downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9 expression. Moreover, ziyuglycoside II blocked the epidermal growth factor receptor/nuclear factor kappa-B (EGFR/NF-kB) signaling, which may contribute to its anticancer activity. Taken together, our findings reveal antiproliferative and antimetastasis activities of ziyuglycoside II in HCC cells, implying that ziyuglycoside II might be a promising candidate for the development of novel anti-HCC drugs.

Chondroprotective and antiarthritic effects of galangin in osteoarthritis: An in vitro and in vivo study

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease blamed for pain and disability in the elderly. Galangin (GAL) is a natural flavonoid that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in various inflammation diseases. However, the role of GAL in OA remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the role of GAL in the progress and development of OA in vitro and vivo. The results showed that IL-1β exposure resulted in increased expression of iNOS, COX-2, MMP1, MMP3, MMP13 and ADAMTS5 in rat chondrocytes. However, co-treatment with GAL significantly decreased theses inflammatory cytokines and catabolic factors expression. In addition, GAL reduced IL-1β-induced degradation of collagen II and aggrecan in chondrocytes. Furthermore, GAL significantly suppressed IL-1β-induced Akt phosphorylation and NF-κB activation in rat chondrocytes. In vivo, intra-articular injection of GAL could also reduce the cartilage degradation in the ACLT rat model. This study reveals galangin may act as a promising novel agent in the treatment of OA.

Induced Cell Death as a Possible Pathway of Antimutagenic Action

The existing concepts of antimutagenesis are briefly reviewed. Published reports on antimutagenic and proapoptotic properties of some polyphenols and compounds of other chemical groups obtained in representative in vitro and in vivo experiments on eukaryotic test systems are discussed. The relationships between the antimutagenic and proapoptotic properties of the analyzed compounds (naringin, apigenin, resveratrol, curcumin, N-acetylcysteine, etc.) are considered in favor of the hypothesis on induced cell death as an antimutagenic tool.

A comprehensive review on phytochemistry, bioactivities, toxicity studies, and clinical studies on Ficus carica Linn. leaves

The leaves of Ficus carica Linn. (FC) have been widely used for medicine purposes since ancient times, and its decoction is consumed as tea. Many scientific papers have been published in the literature and the researchers across the world are still exploring the health benefits of FC leaves. In this review, we have collected the literature published since 2010 in the databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar and local classic herbal literature. The summary of the chemical constituents in FC leaves, biological activities, toxicity studies, and clinical studies carried out on FC leaves is provided in this review. In addition, the molecular mechanisms of the active constituents in FC leaves are also comprehended. FC leaves are reported to 126 constituents out of which the polyphenolic compounds are predominant. Many scientific studies have proven the antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anticholinesterase, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and renoprotective activities. Many studies have carried out to provide the insights on molecular pathways involved in the biological activities of FC leaves. The toxicity studies have suggested that FC leaves exhibit toxicity only at very high doses. We believe this review serve as a comprehensive resource for those who are interested to understand the scientific evidence that support the medicinal values of FC leaves and also the research gaps to further improve the commercial value and health benefits of FC leaves.

Canonical transient receptor potential channels and their modulators: biology, pharmacology and therapeutic potentials

Canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) are nonselective, high calcium permeability cationic channels. The TRPCs family includes TRPC1, TRPC2, TRPC3, TRPC4, TRPC5, TRPC6, and TRPC7. These channels are widely expressed in the cardiovascular and nervous systems and exist in many other human tissues and cell types, playing several crucial roles in the human physiological and pathological processes. Hence, the emergence of TRPCs modulators can help investigate these channels’ applications in health and disease. It is worth noting that the TRPCs subfamilies have structural and functional similarities, which presents a significant difficulty in screening and discovering of TRPCs modulators. In the past few years, only a limited number of selective modulators of TRPCs were detected; thus, additional research on more potent and more selective TRPCs modulators is needed. The present review focuses on the striking desired therapeutic effects of TRPCs modulators, which provides intel on the structural modification of TRPCs modulators and further pharmacological research. Importantly, TRPCs modulators can significantly facilitate future studies of TRPCs and TRPCs related diseases.

Chemopreventive effect of galangin against benzo(a)pyrene-induced stomach tumorigenesis through modulating aryl hydrocarbon receptor in Swiss albino mice

The present study was aimed to evaluate the chemopreventive potential of galangin against benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)-induced stomach carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice. Stomach cancer was induced in experimental mice using BaP oral administration. The mice were treated with galangin (10 mg/kg b.wt.) before and during BaP administration. Oral administration of galangin at a dose of 10 mg/kg b.wt. significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the tumor incidence, tumor volume in the experimental animals. Further, galangin pretreatment prevents BaP-induced lipid peroxidation and restores BaP-mediated loss of cellular antioxidants status. It has also been found that galangin prevents BaP-induced activation of phase I detoxification enzymes. Furthermore, galangin pretreatment prevented the BaP-induced overexpression of cytochrome P450s isoform genes (CYP1A1, CYP1B1), aryl hydrocarbon receptor system (AhR, ARNT), transcriptional activators (CBP/p300, NF-kB), tumor growth factors, proto-oncogenes, invasion markers (TGFB, SRC-1, MYC, iNOS, MMP2, MMP9) and Phase II metabolic isoenzyme genes (GST) in the stomach tissue homogenate when compared to the control groups. The western blot results confirm that galangin (10 mg/kg. b.wt.) treatment significantly prevented the BaP-mediated expression of ArR, ARNT, and CYP1A1 proteins in the mouse stomach tissue. Therefore, the present results confirm that galangin prevents BaP-induced stomach carcinogenesis probably through modulating ArR and ARNT expression in the experimental mice.

Challenges and Perspectives of Standard Therapy and Drug Development in High-Grade Gliomas

Despite their low incidence rate globally, high-grade gliomas (HGG) remain a fatal primary brain tumor. The recommended therapy often is incapable of resecting the tumor entirely and exclusively targeting the tumor leads to tumor recurrence and dismal prognosis. Additionally, many HGG patients are not well suited for standard therapy and instead, subjected to a palliative approach. HGG tumors are highly infiltrative and the complex tumor microenvironment as well as high tumor heterogeneity often poses the main challenges towards the standard treatment. Therefore, a one-fit-approach may not be suitable for HGG management. Thus, a multimodal approach of standard therapy with immunotherapy, nanomedicine, repurposing of older drugs, use of phytochemicals, and precision medicine may be more advantageous than a single treatment model. This multimodal approach considers the environmental and genetic factors which could affect the patient's response to therapy, thus improving their outcome. This review discusses the current views and advances in potential HGG therapeutic approaches and, aims to bridge the existing knowledge gap that will assist in overcoming challenges in HGG.

Autophagy: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential of Flavonoids in Cancer

Autophagy, which is a conserved biological process and essential mechanism in maintaining homeostasis and metabolic balance, enables cells to degrade cytoplasmic constituents through lysosomes, recycle nutrients, and survive during starvation. Autophagy exerts an anticarcinogenic role in normal cells and inhibits the malignant transformation of cells. On the other hand, aberrations in autophagy are involved in gene derangements, cell metabolism, the process of tumor immune surveillance, invasion and metastasis, and tumor drug-resistance. Therefore, autophagy-targeted drugs may function as anti-tumor agents. Accumulating evidence suggests that flavonoids have anticarcinogenic properties, including those relating to cellular proliferation inhibition, the induction of apoptosis, autophagy, necrosis, cell cycle arrest, senescence, the impairment of cell migration, invasion, tumor angiogenesis, and the reduction of multidrug resistance in tumor cells. Flavonoids, which are a group of natural polyphenolic compounds characterized by multiple targets that participate in multiple pathways, have been widely studied in different models for autophagy modulation. However, flavonoid-induced autophagy commonly interacts with other mechanisms, comprehensively influencing the anticancer effect. Accordingly, targeted autophagy may become the core mechanism of flavonoids in the treatment of tumors. This paper reviews the flavonoid-induced autophagy of tumor cells and their interaction with other mechanisms, so as to provide a comprehensive and in-depth account on how flavonoids exert tumor-suppressive effects through autophagy.

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.

Delicaflavone Reverses Cisplatin Resistance via Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling Pathway in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Background

The incidence and mortality of lung cancer continue to increase around the world; in 2018, new lung cancer cases accounted for 11.6% of all cancer cases, and lung cancer deaths accounted for 18.4% of cancer deaths. Cisplatin (DDP) is a first-line chemotherapy drug for lung cancer; however, DDP resistance can lead to a poor prognosis in patients with lung cancer. Therefore, reversing DDP resistance is a treatment goal.

Materials and Methods

Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assays, wound healing analyses, Transwell assays, in vitro tumor xenografts, and flow cytometry were used to detect the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of multidrug resistant A549/DDP and PC9/DDP cells, respectively. Western blot was performed to detect protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, CHOP, and GRP78.

Results

Delicaflavone inhibited DDP resistance of lung cancer cells and decreased proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. It also decreased migration and invasion and enhanced apoptosis. Western blots showed that delicaflavone overcame DDP resistance by increasing the expression of GRP78 and CHOP and the apoptosis-related protein cleaved caspase-3.

Conclusion

Delicaflavone can reverse DDP resistance in A549/DDP and PC9/DDP cells by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration and enhancing apoptosis and cleaved caspase-3 levels by increasing the expression of CHOP and GRP78 protein via the endoplasmic reticular stress pathway. It could be a useful therapeutic adjunct to treat DDP-resistant lung cancer.

Antiangiogenic Activity of Flavonoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract: An imbalance of angiogenesis contributes to many pathologies such as cancer, arthritis and retinopathy, hence molecules that can modulate angiogenesis are of considerable therapeutic importance. Despite many reports on the promising antiangiogenic properties of naturally occurring flavonoids, no flavonoids have progressed to the clinic for this application. This systematic review and meta-analysis therefore evaluates the antiangiogenic activities of a wide range of flavonoids and is presented in two sections. The first part of the study (Systematic overview) included 402 articles identified by searching articles published before May 2020 using ScienceDirect, PubMed and Web of Science databases. From this initial search, different classes of flavonoids with antiangiogenic activities, related pathologies and use of in vitro and/or in/ex vivo angiogenesis assays were identified. In the second part (Meta-analysis), 25 studies concerning the antiangiogenic evaluation of flavonoids using the in vivo chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay were included, following a targeted search on articles published prior to June 2020. Meta-analysis of 15 out of the 25 eligible studies showed concentration dependent antiangiogenic activity of six compared subclasses of flavonoids with isoflavones, flavonols and flavones being the most active (64 to 80% reduction of blood vessels at 100 µM). Furthermore, the key structural features required for the antiangiogenic activity of flavonoids were derived from the pooled data in a structure activity relationship (SAR) study. All in all, flavonoids are promising candidates for the development of antiangiogenic agents, however further investigations are needed to determine the key structural features responsible for their activity.