Furocoumarins: A review of biochemical activities, dietary sources and intake, and potential health risks

Metabolism of Furanocoumarins by Three Recombinant CYP9A Proteins From the Polyphagous Cotton Bollworm Helicoverpa armigera

Furanocoumarins are a class of chemical compounds with phototoxic properties. For herbivores, efficient detoxification of such defense compounds is the prerequisite to feed successfully on furanocoumarin-containing plants. The cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera is a very important polyphagous pest in agriculture, but how it copes with toxic furanocoumarins in some of its host plants is not well understood. Given that cytochrome P450s are well known for their capacity in xenobiotic metabolism, this study attempted to explore the potential roles of cytochrome P450s in furanocoumarin transformation in this pest. Our data showed that two linear structures (psoralen and xanthotoxin) could be metabolized by three recombinant CYP9A enzymes, but no detectable depletion was observed for the linear one with the 8-dimethylallyloxy substituent on the coumarin moiety (imperatorin) and the angular furanocoumarin (angelicin). Initial epoxidation of the double bond connecting C2' and C3' of the furano ring following by cleavage of the epoxidated furan ring, leading to the formation of more soluble, less reactive and nonphotosensitizing metabolites, was identified as a common mechanism of linear furanocoumarin metabolism using a quadrupole/time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometry interfaced with a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. Our data demonstrated that multiple P450s were involved in the detoxification of linear furanocoumarins in the cotton bollworm. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the biochemical basis of adaptation to plant defense chemicals in this economically important pest.

Plant-Derived Coumarins: A Narrative Review of Their Structural and Biomedical Diversity

Plant-derived coumarin (PDC) is a naturally occurring heterocyclic backbone that belongs to the benzopyrone family. PDC and its based products are characterized by low toxicity and high distribution in a variety of herbal treatments that have numerous therapeutic potentials. These include anticoagulants, antibacterials, anti-inflammatory agents, anticancer agents, antioxidants, and others. So, it may be appropriate to investigate the qualities and potential bioactivities of PDCs. This article provides an overview of the biomedical potentials, availability, and clinical use possibilities of PDCs, with a focus on their important modes of action, using information on various pharmacological qualities discovered. The data used in this study came from published research between 2015 and 2023. We reviewed a selection of databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, during that period. In conclusion, because of their abundance in medicinal plants, the clinical biochemistry attributes of PDCs are currently of interest. In a variety of medical specialties, PDCs serve a useful role as therapeutic agents.

Three types of enzymes complete the furanocoumarins core skeleton biosynthesis in Angelica sinensis

Furanocoumarins (FCs) are widely distributed secondary metabolites found in higher plants, including Apiaceae, Rutaceae, Moraceae, and Fabaceae. They play a crucial role in the physiological functions of plants and are well-known for their diverse pharmacological activities. As a representative plant of the Apiaceae family, Angelica sinensis is highly valued for its medicinal properties and FCs are one of the main ingredients of A. sinensis. However, the biosynthetic mechanism of FCs in A. sinensis remains poorly understood. In this study, we successfully cloned and verified three types of enzymes using genome analysis and in vitro functional verification, which complete the biosynthesis of the FCs core skeleton in A. sinensis. It includes a p-coumaroyl CoA 2'-hydroxylase (AsC2'H) responsible for umbelliferone formation, two UbiA prenyltransferases (AsPT1 and AsPT2) that convert umbelliferone to demethylsuberosin (DMS) and osthenol, respectively, and two CYP736 subfamily cyclases (AsDC and AsOD) that catalyze the formation of FCs core skeleton. Interestingly, AsOD was demonstrated to be a bifunctional cyclase and could catalyze both DMS and osthenol, but had a higher affinity to osthenol. The characterization of these enzymes elucidates the molecular mechanism of FCs biosynthesis, providing new insights and technologies for understanding the diverse origins of FCs biosynthesis.

Deciphering the Molecular Mechanisms of Reactive Metabolite Formation in the Mechanism-Based Inactivation of Cytochrome p450 1B1 by 8-Methoxypsoralen and Assessing the Driving Effect of phe268

This study provides a comprehensive computational exploration of the inhibitory activity and metabolic pathways of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MP), a furocoumarin derivative used for treating various skin disorders, on cytochrome P450 (P450). Employing quantum chemical DFT calculations, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations analyses, the biotransformation mechanisms and the active site binding profile of 8-MP in CYP1B1 were investigated. Three plausible inactivation mechanisms were minutely scrutinized. Further analysis explored the formation of reactive metabolites in subsequent P450 metabolic processes, including covalent adduct formation through nucleophilic addition to the epoxide, 8-MP epoxide hydrolysis, and non-CYP-catalyzed epoxide ring opening. Special attention was paid to the catalytic effect of residue Phe268 on the mechanism-based inactivation (MBI) of P450 by 8-MP. Energetic profiles and facilitating conditions revealed a slight preference for the C4'=C5' epoxidation pathway, while recognizing a potential kinetic competition with the 8-OMe demethylation pathway due to comparable energy demands. The formation of covalent adducts via nucleophilic addition, particularly by phenylalanine, and the generation of potentially harmful reactive metabolites through autocatalyzed ring cleavage are likely to contribute significantly to P450 metabolism of 8-MP. Our findings highlight the key role of Phe268 in retaining 8-MP within the active site of CYP1B1, thereby facilitating initial oxygen addition transition states. This research offers crucial molecular-level insights that may guide the early stages of drug discovery and risk assessment related to the use of 8-MP.

Psoralen: a narrative review of current and future therapeutic uses

Psoralen is a family of naturally occurring photoactive compounds found in plants that acquire potential cytotoxicity when activated by specific frequencies of electromagnetic waves. Psoralens penetrate the phospholipid cellular membranes and insert themselves between the pyrimidines of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Psoralens are initially biologically inert and acquire photoreactivity when exposed to certain classes of electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet light. Once activated, psoralens form mono- and di-adducts with DNA, leading to marked cell apoptosis. This apoptotic effect is more pronounced in tumor cells due to their high rate of cell division. Moreover, photoactivated psoralen can inhibit tyrosine kinase signaling and influence the immunogenic properties of cells. Thus, the cytotoxicity of photoactivated psoralen holds promising clinical applications from its immunogenic properties to potential anti-cancer treatments. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding and research on psoralen and to explore its potential future pharmacotherapeutic benefits in specific diseases.

Inhibitory potential of furanocoumarins against cyclin dependent kinase 4 using integrated docking, molecular dynamics and ONIOM methods

Cyclin Dependent Kinase 4 (CDK4) is vital in the process of cell-cycle and serves as a G1 phase checkpoint in cell division. Selective antagonists of CDK4 which are in use as clinical chemotherapeutics cause various side-effects in patients. Furanocoumarins induce anti-cancerous effects in a range of human tumours. Therefore, targeting these compounds against CDK4 is anticipated to enhance therapeutic effectiveness. This work intended to explore the CDK4 inhibitory potential of 50 furanocoumarin molecules, using a comprehensive approach that integrates the processes of docking, drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic analysis, molecular dynamics simulations and ONIOM (Our own N-layered Integrated molecular Orbital and Molecular mechanics) methods. The top five best docked compounds obtained from docking studies were screened for subsequent analysis. The molecules displayed good pharmacokinetic properties and no toxicity. Epoxybergamottin, dihydroxybergamottin and notopterol were found to inhabit the ATP-binding zone of CDK4 with substantial stability and negative binding free energy forming hydrogen bonds with key catalytic residues of the protein. Notopterol exhibiting the highest binding energy was subjected to ONIOM calculations wherein the hydrogen bonding interactions were retained with significant negative interaction energy. Hence, through these series of computerised methods, notopterol was screened as a potent CDK4 inhibitor and can act as a starting point in successive processes of drug design.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Furocoumarins potentiate UVA-induced DNA damage in skin melanocytes

Epidemiological studies have found that high citrus fruit consumption was associated with higher risk of skin cancer. Citrus fruits and some vegetables contain furocoumarins, which may interact with ultraviolet radiation to induce skin cancer. We aimed to determine the effects of two furocoumarins, including 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) and 6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin (DHB), on UVA-induced DNA damage in human epidermal melanocytes, the origin of melanoma. Our hypothesis was that these dietary furocoumarins increase UVA-induced DNA damage in melanocytes, compared to cells exposed to UV alone. We incubated melanocytes with 8-MOP or DHB, followed by exposure to physiological doses of UVA radiation. We used Western blots to quantify the UVA-induced DNA damage measured by the fraction of phosphorylated histone variant H2AX (γH2AX), which is a marker of DNA damage, relative to total H2AX (γH2AX/H2AX) in the presence or absence of furocoumarins. To quantify the UVA-induced change in γH2AX/H2AX, we calculated the UVA:Control ratio as the ratio of γH2AX/H2AX in UVA-exposed cells to that in cells without UVA (control). The mean UVA:Control ratios were borderline significantly higher for cells treated with 8-MOP and significantly higher for cells treated with DHB, compared to that of untreated cells. This study suggests that furocoumarins (particularly 8-MOP and DHB) enhance UVA-induced DNA damage in melanocytes, which is a potential novel mechanism for citrus and furocoumarins to elevate the risk of skin cancer.

Xanthotoxin, a novel inducer of platelet formation, promotes thrombocytopoiesis via IL-1R1 and MEK/ERK signaling

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytopenia is a common hematological disease caused by many factors. It usually complicates critical diseases and increases morbidity and mortality. The treatment of thrombocytopenia remains a great challenge in clinical practice, however, its treatment options are limited. In this study, the active monomer xanthotoxin (XAT) was screened out to explore its medicinal value and provide novel therapeutic strategies for the clinical treatment of thrombocytopenia.

METHODS

The effects of XAT on megakaryocyte differentiation and maturation were detected by flow cytometry, Giemsa and phalloidin staining. RNA-seq identified differentially expressed genes and enriched pathways. The signaling pathway and transcription factors were verified through WB and immunofluorescence staining. Tg (cd41: eGFP) transgenic zebrafish and mice with thrombocytopenia were used to evaluate the biological activity of XAT on platelet formation and the related hematopoietic organ index in vivo.

RESULTS

XAT promoted the differentiation and maturation of Meg-01 cells in vitro. Meanwhile, XAT could stimulate platelet formation in transgenic zebrafish and recover platelet production and function in irradiation-induced thrombocytopenia mice. Further RNA-seq prediction and WB verification revealed that XAT activates the IL-1R1 target and MEK/ERK signaling pathway, and upregulates the expression of transcription factors related to the hematopoietic lineage to promote megakaryocyte differentiation and platelet formation.

CONCLUSION

XAT accelerates megakaryocyte differentiation and maturation to promote platelet production and recovery through triggering IL-1R1 and activating the MEK/ERK signaling pathway, providing a new pharmacotherapy strategy for thrombocytopenia.

An Overview of Potential Natural Photosensitizers in Cancer Photodynamic Therapy

Cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide. There are several different types of cancer recognized thus far, which can be treated by different approaches including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination thereof. However, these approaches have certain drawbacks and limitations. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is regarded as an alternative noninvasive approach for cancer treatment based on the generation of toxic oxygen (known as reactive oxygen species (ROS)) at the treatment site. PDT requires photoactivation by a photosensitizer (PS) at a specific wavelength (λ) of light in the vicinity of molecular oxygen (singlet oxygen). The cell death mechanisms adopted in PDT upon PS photoactivation are necrosis, apoptosis and stimulation of the immune system. Over the past few decades, the use of natural compounds as a photoactive agent for the selective eradication of neoplastic lesions has attracted researchers' attention. Many reviews have focused on the PS cell death mode of action and photonanomedicine approaches for PDT, while limited attention has been paid to the photoactivation of phytocompounds. Photoactivation is ever-present in nature and also found in natural plant compounds. The availability of various laser light setups can play a vital role in the discovery of photoactive phytocompounds that can be used as a natural PS. Exploring phytocompounds for their photoactive properties could reveal novel natural compounds that can be used as a PS in future pharmaceutical research. In this review, we highlight the current research regarding several photoactive phytocompound classes (furanocoumarins, alkaloids, poly-acetylenes and thiophenes, curcumins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, and natural extracts) and their photoactive potential to encourage researchers to focus on studies of natural agents and their use as a potent PS to enhance the efficiency of PDT.

Psoralen as a Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy by Means of In Vitro Cherenkov Light

Possible enhancements of DNA damage with light of different wavelengths and ionizing radiation (Rhenium-188-a high energy beta emitter (Re-188)) on plasmid DNA and FaDu cells via psoralen were investigated. The biophysical experimental setup could also be used to investigate additional DNA damage due to photodynamic effects, resulting from Cherenkov light. Conformational changes of plasmid DNA due to DNA damage were detected and quantified by gel electrophoresis and fluorescent staining. The clonogene survival of the FaDu cells was analyzed with colony formation assays. Dimethyl sulfoxide was chosen as a chemical modulator, and Re-188 was used to evaluate the radiotoxicity and light (UVC: λ = 254 nm and UVA: λ = 366 nm) to determine the phototoxicity. Psoralen did not show chemotoxic effects on the plasmid DNA or FaDu cells. After additional treatment with light (only 366 nm-not seen with 254 nm), a concentration-dependent increase in single strand breaks (SSBs) was visible, resulting in a decrease in the survival fraction due to the photochemical activation of psoralen. Whilst UVC light was phototoxic, UVA light did not conclude in DNA strand breaks. Re-188 showed typical radiotoxic effects with SSBs, double strand breaks, and an overall reduced cell survival for both the plasmid DNA and FaDu cells. While psoralen and UVA light showed an increased toxicity on plasmid DNA and human cancer cells, Re-188, in combination with psoralen, did not provoke additional DNA damage via Cherenkov light.

Potential Biochemical Pesticide-Synthesis of Neofuranocoumarin and Inhibition the Proliferation of Spodoptera frugiperda Cells through Activating the Mitochondrial Pathway

Furanocoumarins, the secondary metabolites of plants, are considered to be natural insecticides and fungicides because they prevent the invasion of plant pathogenic microorganisms and the predation of herbivorous insects. In this study, novel 2-arylfuranocoumarin derivatives were designed to synthesize by condensation, esterification, bromination, and Wittig reaction. The results showed an excellent photosensitive activity of 2-thiophenylfuranocoumarin (I34). Cell Counting Kit-8 detected that I34 could inhibit the proliferation of Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner under ultraviolet A (UV-A) light for 3 min. The inverted microscope revealed that cells treated with I34 swelled, the membrane was ruptured, and apoptotic bodies appeared. The flow cytometry detected that I34 could induce apoptosis of Sf9 cells, increase the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential, and block cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Transmission electron microscopy detected cell mitochondrial cristae damage, matrix degradation, and mitochondrial vacuolation. Further enzyme activity detection revealed that the enzyme activities of apoptosis-related proteins caspase-3 and caspase-9 increased significantly (p < 0.05). Finally, Western blotting analysis detected that the phosphorylation level of Akt and Bad and the expression of the apoptosis inhibitor protein Bcl-XL were inhibited, cleaved-PARP and P53 were increased, and cytochrome C was released from the mitochondria into the cytoplasm. Moreover, under UV-A irradiation, I34 promoted the increase in ROS in Sf9 cells, activated the mitochondrial apoptotic signal transduction pathway, and finally, inhibited cell proliferation. Thus, novel furanocoumarins exhibit a potential application prospect as a biochemical pesticide.

Analysis of Prohibited and Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics

The general public uses cosmetics daily. Cosmetic products contain substances (ingredients) with various functions, from skincare to enhancing appearance, as well as ingredients that preserve the cosmetic products. Some cosmetic ingredients are prohibited or restricted in certain geographical regions, such as the European Union and the United States of America, due to their potential to cause adverse effects such as cancer, birth defects, and/or developmental and reproductive disorders. However, the ingredients may be used in other regions, and, hence, the monitoring of the cosmetic ingredients actually used is important to ensure the safety of cosmetic products. This review provides an overview of recent analytical methods that have been developed for detecting certain ingredients that are restricted or prohibited by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or EU legislation on cosmetic products.

Xanthotoxin (8-methoxypsoralen): A review of its chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity

Xanthotoxin (XAT) is a natural furanocoumarins, a bioactive psoralen isolated from the fruit of the Rutaceae plant Pepper, which has received increasing attention in recent years due to its wide source and low cost. By collecting and compiling literature on XAT, the results show that XAT exhibits significant activity in the treatment of various diseases, including neuroprotection, skin repair, osteoprotection, organ protection, anticancer, antiinflammatory, antioxidative stress and antibacterial. In this paper, we review the pharmacological activity and potential molecular mechanisms of XAT for the treatment of related diseases. The data suggest that XAT can mechanistically induce ROS production and promote apoptosis through mitochondrial or endoplasmic reticulum pathways, regulate NF-κB, MAPK, JAK/STAT, Nrf2/HO-1, MAPK, AKT/mTOR, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways to exert pharmacological effects. In addition, the pharmacokinetics properties and toxicity of XAT are discussed in this paper, further elucidating the relationship between structure and efficacy. It is worth noting that data from clinical studies of XAT are still scarce, limiting the use of XAT in the clinic, and in the future, more in-depth studies are needed to determine the clinical efficacy of XAT.

Different Seasonal Collections of Ficus carica L. Leaves Diversely Modulate Lipid Metabolism and Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Due to the high prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, adipogenesis dysfunction and metabolic disorders are common features in the elderly population. Thus, the identification of novel compounds with anti-adipogenic and lipolytic effects is highly desirable to reduce diabetes complications. Plants represent an important source of bioactive compounds. To date, the antidiabetic potential of several traditional plants has been reported, among which Ficus carica L. is one of the most promising. Considering that plant metabolome changes in response to a number of factors including seasonality, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether Ficus carica leaves extracts collected in autumn (FCa) and spring (FCs) differently modulate lipid metabolism and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The 1H-NMR profile of the extracts showed that FCs have a higher content of caffeic acid derivatives, glucose, and sucrose than FCa. In contrast, FCa showed a higher concentration of malic acid and furanocoumarins, identified as psoralen and bergapten. In vitro testing showed that only FCa treatments were able to significantly decrease the lipid content (Ctrl vs. FCa 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL; p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, FCa treatments were able to downregulate the transcriptional pathway of adipogenesis and insulin sensitivity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In more detail, FCa 80 μg/mL significantly decreased the gene expression of PPARγ (p < 0.05), C/EBPα (p < 0.05), Leptin (p < 0.0001), adiponectin (p < 0.05) and GLUT4 (p < 0.01). In conclusion, this study further supports an in-depth investigation of F. carica leaves extracts as a promising source of active compounds useful for targeting obesity and diabetes.

Production of lactones for flavoring and pharmacological purposes from unsaturated lipids: an industrial perspective

The enantiomeric pure and natural (+)-Lactones (C ≤ 14) with aromas obtained from fruits and milk are considered flavoring compounds. The flavoring value is related to the lactones' ring size and chain length, which blend in varying concentrations to produce different stone-fruit flavors. The nature-identical and enantiomeric pure (+)-lactones are only produced through whole-cell biotransformation of yeast. The industrially important γ-decalactone and δ-decalactone are produced by a four-step aerobic-oxidation of ricinoleic acid (RA) following the lactonization mechanism. Recently, metabolic engineering strategies have opened up new possibilities for increasing productivity. Another strategy for increasing yield is to immobilize the RA and remove lactones from the broth regularly. Besides flavor impact, γ-, δ-, ε-, ω-lactones of the carbon chain (C8-C12), the macro-lactones and their derivatives are vital in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. These analogues are isolated from natural sources or commercially produced via biotransformation and chemical synthesis processes for medicinal use or as active pharmaceutical ingredients. The various approaches to biotransformation have been discussed in this review to generate more prospects from a commercial point of view. Finally, this work will be regarded as a magical brick capable of containing both traditional and genetic engineering technology while contributing to a wide range of commercial applications.

Overview of Recent Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry-Based Methods for Natural Toxins Detection in Food Products

Natural toxins include a wide range of toxic metabolites also occurring in food and products, thus representing a risk for consumer health. In the last few decades, several robust and sensitive analytical methods able to determine their occurrence in food have been developed. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry is the most powerful tool for the simultaneous detection of these toxins due to its advantages in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. A comprehensive review on the most relevant papers on methods based on liquid chromatography mass spectrometry for the analysis of mycotoxins, alkaloids, marine toxins, glycoalkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides and furocoumarins in food is reported herein. Specifically, a literature search from 2011 to 2021 was carried out, selecting a total of 96 papers. Different approaches to sample preparation, chromatographic separation and detection mode are discussed. Particular attention is given to the analytical performance characteristics obtained in the validation process and the relevant application to real samples.

Citrus-Gene interaction and melanoma risk in the UK Biobank

High citrus consumption may increase melanoma risk; however, little is known about the biological mechanisms of this association, or whether it is modified by genetic variants. We conducted a genome-wide analysis of gene-citrus consumption interactions on melanoma risk among 1563 melanoma cases and 193 296 controls from the UK Biobank. Both the 2-degrees-of-freedom (df) joint test of genetic main effect and gene-environment (G-E) interaction and the standard 1-df G-E interaction test were performed. Three index SNPs (lowest P-value SNP among highly correlated variants [r²  > .6]) were identified from among the 365 genome-wide significant 2-df test results (rs183783391 on chromosome 3 [MITF], rs869329 on chromosome 9 [MTAP] and rs11446223 on chromosome 16 [DEF8]). Although all three were statistically significant for the 2-df test (4.25e-08, 1.98e-10 and 4.93e-13, respectively), none showed evidence of interaction according to the 1-df test (P = .73, .24 and .12, respectively). Eight nonindex, 2-df test significant SNPs on chromosome 16 were significant (P < .05) according to the 1-df test, providing evidence of citrus-gene interaction. Seven of these SNPs were mapped to AFG3L1P (rs199600347, rs111822773, rs113178244, rs3803683, rs73283867, rs78800020, rs73283871), and one SNP was mapped to GAS8 (rs74583214). We identified several genetic loci that may elucidate the association between citrus consumption and melanoma risk. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

2-(2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-4,9-dimethyl-7-oxo-7H-furo[2,3-f]chromen-3-yl)acetic Acid

For the first time, we describe a new approach towards the synthesis of previously unknown 2-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4,9-dimethyl-7-oxo-7H-furo[2,3-f]chromen-3-yl)acetic acid. The presented method is based on the multicomponent condensation of 5-hydroxy-4,7-dimethyl-2H-chromen-2-one, 4-methoxyphenylglyoxal and Meldrum’s acid. It was shown that the studied reaction proceeds in two steps including the initial interaction of starting materials in MeCN and the final formation of furylacetic acid moiety in acidic media. The structures of the obtained compound were established by 1H, 13C-NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Chemical constituents of Ruta graveolens L. and their melanogenic effects and action mechanism

Ruta graveolens L. has been widely used to treat various skin ailments, especially vitiligo. In this study, we isolated a new furanocoumarin named Rutagrarin (1) along with 14 known compounds (2-15) from the aerial parts of R. graveolens and elucidated their chemical structures via various spectroscopy. We found that compound 5 promoted melanogenesis and tyrosinase activity in B16 cells. Further investigation on underlying mechanisms revealed that compound 5 activated the transcription of microtia-related transcription factors and promoted the production of melanin in B16 cells via the Akt/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway. Therefore, we confirmed the traditional efficacy of R. graveolens and speculated that compound 5 could be used as a natural drug to treat vitiligo.

Isopimpinellin extends antiangiogenic effect through overexpression of miR-15b-5p and downregulating angiogenic stimulators

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels from an existing vasculature through a series of processes such as activation, proliferation, and directed migration of endothelial cells. Angiogenesis is instrumental in the metastatic spread of tumors. Isopimpinellin, a furanocoumarin group of phytochemicals, is an anticarcinogenic agent. However, no studies have proven its antiangiogenic effects. The current study thus aimed to screen the antiangiogenic effect of isopimpinellin.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Human Umblical Vein Endothelial Cell (HUVEC) as an in vitro model and zebrafish embryos as an in vivo model was used in this study. The experimental results showed that isopimpinellin effectively inhibited HUVEC proliferation, invasion, migration, and tube formation, which are the key steps in angiogenesis by markedly suppressing the expression of pro-angiogenic genes VEGF, AKT, and HIF-1α. In addition, isopimpinellin exerts its anti-angiogenic effect through the regulation of miR-15b-5p and miR-542-3p. Furthermore, in zebrafish embryos, isopimpinellin inhibited the development of intersegmental vessels (ISVs) through the significant downregulation of all pro-angiogenic genes vegf, vegfr2, survivin, angpt-1, angpt-2, and tie-2.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these experimental findings offer novel insights into the antiangiogenic nature of isopimpinellin and open new avenues for therapeutic approaches.

Diet-Related Phototoxic Reactions in Psoriatic Patients Undergoing Phototherapy: Results from a Multicenter Prospective Study

Vegans and vegetarians often consume foods containing photosensitizers capable of triggering phytophotodermatitis. The potential effect of vegan and vegetarian diets on the response of psoriatic patients undergoing phototherapy is not well characterized. We assessed clinical outcomes of vegan, vegetarian and omnivore adult psoriatic patients undergoing band ultraviolet B phototherapy (NB-UVB). In this multicenter prospective observational study, we enrolled 119 adult, psoriatic patients, of whom 40 were omnivores, 41 were vegetarians and 38 were vegans, with phototherapy indication. After determining the minimum erythemal dose (MED), we performed NB-UVB sessions for 8 weeks. The first irradiation dosage was 70.00% of the MED, then increased by 20.00% (no erythema) or by 10.00% (presence of erythema) until a maximum single dose of 3 J/cm² was reached and constantly maintained. All the enrolled patients completed the 8 weeks of therapy. Severe erythema was present in 16 (42.11%) vegans, 7 (17.07%) vegetarians and 4 (10.00%) omnivores (p < 0.01). MED was lowest among vegans (21.18 ± 4.85 J/m²), followed by vegetarians (28.90 ± 6.66 J/m²) and omnivores (33.63 ± 4.53 J/m², p < 0.01). Patients with severe erythema were more likely to have a high furocumarin intake (OR 5.67, 95% CI 3.74-8.61, p < 0.01). Vegans consumed the highest amount of furocumarin-rich foods. A model examining erythema, adjusted for gender, age, skin type, MED, phototherapy type, number of phototherapies and furocumarin intake, confirmed that vegans had a lower number of treatments. Vegans had more frequent severe erythema from NB-UVB, even after adjustment of the phototherapy protocol for their lower MED. Assessing diet information and adapting the protocol for vegan patients may be prudent.

Oxypeucedanin: Chemotaxonomy, Isolation, and Bioactivities

The present review comprehensively gathered phytochemical, bioactivity, and pharmacokinetic reports on a linear furanocoumarin, namely oxypeucedanin. Oxypeucedanin (OP), which structurally contains an epoxide ring, has been majorly isolated from ethyl acetate-soluble partitions of several genera, particularly Angelica, Ferulago, and Prangos of the Apiaceae family; and Citrus, belonging to the Rutaceae family. The methanolic extract of Angelica dahurica roots has been analytically characterized as the richest natural OP source. This naturally occurring secondary metabolite has been described to possess potent antiproliferative, cytotoxic, anti-influenza, and antiallergic activities, as assessed in preclinical studies. In order to explore potential drug candidates, oxypeucedanin, its derivatives, and semi-synthetically optimized analogues can be considered for the complementary assessments of biological assays.

Xanthotoxin enhances the anticonvulsant potency of levetiracetam and valproate in the 6-Hz corneal stimulation model in mice

Xanthotoxin (8-methoxypsoralen; XANT) is a furanocoumarin that has many biological properties, including antiepileptic activity. This study evaluated the effect of XANT on the ability of classical and novel antiepileptic drugs to prevent seizures evoked by the 6-Hz corneal stimulation-induced seizure model, which is thought to be an experimental model of psychomotor (limbic) seizures in humans. XANT (50 mg/kg, administered i.p.) significantly potentiated the anticonvulsant activity of levetiracetam and valproate, decreasing their median effective dose (ED₅₀ ) values from 19.37 to 2.83 mg/kg (P < 0.01) for levetiracetam and from 92.89 to 44.44 mg/kg (P < 0.05) for valproate. Neither XANT (50 mg/kg) alone nor its combination with the anticonvulsant drugs (at their ED₅₀ values from the 6-Hz test) affected motor coordination; skeletal muscular strength and long-term memory, as determined in the chimney; and grip strength and passive avoidance tests, respectively. Measurement of total brain antiepileptic drug concentrations revealed that XANT (50 mg/kg) had no impact on levetiracetam total brain concentrations, indicating the pharmacodynamic nature of interaction between these antiepileptic drugs in the mouse 6-Hz model. However, XANT (50 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased total brain concentrations of valproate (P < 0.01), indicating the pharmacokinetic nature of interactions between drugs. XANT in combination with levetiracetam exerts beneficial anticonvulsant pharmacodynamic interactions in the 6-Hz mouse psychomotor seizure model.

The ethnobotany, phytochemistry and biological properties of genus Ferulago - A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Ferulago, belonging to the Apiaceae family, is found mainly in the Mediterranean area, Southwest and Middle Asia, the Caucasus and North Africa. Since ancient times, species of this genus have been largely employed in traditional medicine for their biological properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, insecticidal, and anti-malaria, cholinesterase inhibition effects, etc. AIMS: The scope of this paper is to present a comprehensive respect review of this interesting genus including traditional uses, chemical composition of volatile and non-volatile metabolites, and in vitro and in vivo biological properties either utilizing the crude extracts or essential oils, or the single isolated compounds. Furthermore, critical considerations of the published data have been highlighted by comparing them with the results obtained from species of other genus belonging to the Apiaceae family.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The available information on these genera was collected from scientific databases and cover from 1967 up to 2020. The following electronic databases were used: PubMed, SciFinder, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The search terms used for this review included Ferulago, all the botanical names of the species, both accepted names or synonyms, essential oils, volatile components, traditional uses, activity, pharmacology, and toxicity. No limitations were set for languages. A total of 230 articles were included in the present review.

RESULTS

Researches performed on either crude extracts, solvent fractions or isolated pure compounds from species of genus Ferulago showed several biological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, enzymatic, cytotoxic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antileishmanial, antimalarial, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, etc. Activities. Phytochemical investigations of Ferulago species have revealed that coumarins are the main constituents of the genera. A large number of flavonoids, terpenoids and other metabolites were also identified. Furthermore, a complete review on the essential oil composition of all the taxa studied so far has been also included.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we have provided scientific information and research developments on traditional uses, phytochemical profiles, biological activities and industrial practices on the Ferulago genus. The commercial use and the applications in agri-food sector of some of these species have been also considered. In fact, the various extracts and essential oils have been used as antioxidants and/or as antimicrobial agents, for the stabilization of sunflower and soybean oil, for food packagings, as antioxidants of mayonnaise and yogurt during their storage and, also, as economically valid source for obtaining single compounds, more expensive at a synthetic level.

Type and magnitude of non-compliance and adulteration in neroli, mandarin and bergamot essential oils purchased on-line: potential consumer vulnerability

Thirty-one samples of essential oils used both in perfumery and aromatherapy were purchased to business-to-consumers suppliers and submitted to standard gas chromatography-based analysis of their chemical composition. Their compliance with ISO AFNOR standards was checked and revealed, although ISO AFNOR ranges are relatively loose, that more than 45% of the samples analyzed failed to pass the test and more than 19% were diluted with solvents such as propylene and dipropylene glycol, triethyl citrate, or vegetal oil. Cases of non-compliance could be due to substitution or dilution with a cheaper essential oil, such as sweet orange oil, blending with selected compounds (linalool and linalyl acetate, maybe of synthetic origin), or issues of aging, harvest, or manufacturing that should be either deliberate or accidental. In some cases, natural variability could be invoked. These products are made available to the market without control and liability by resellers and could expose the public to safety issues, in addition to commercial prejudice, in sharp contrast with the ever-increasing regulations applying to the sector and the high demand of consumers for safe, controlled and traceable products in fragrances and cosmetic products.

Linear retention index approach applied to liquid chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry to determine oxygen heterocyclic compounds at trace level in finished cosmetics

In the European Union, cosmetic products are regulated by the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. The Analytical Working Group of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) suggested that a new sensitive analytical method is needed to determine psoralens in finished cosmetic products. This research provides an HPLC-MS/MS method for the quality control of 20 furocoumarins, 8 coumarins and 7 polymethoxyflavones in cosmetics. Thanks to the high sensitivity of the tandem mass spectrometry detection in Multiple Reaction Monitoring mode, psoralens contained in trace have been quantified in different products. The Limits of Quantifications were in the range 0.3-74 μg L^-1. A reliable identification was achieved combining the Linear Retention Index (LRI) system with the MS and MS/MS libraries. In particular, the attribution was based on the spectra similarity filtered by the LRI parameter. The robustness and reproducibility of the LRI approach was demonstrated by the comparison of the HPLC-MS/MS results here reported with those obtained in our previous study, by using an HPLC-PDA system. This method could be taken into account for quality control of furocoumarins in cosmetics, and by the main associations, such as IFRA, for the purpose of issuing new opinions.

Bergamottin and 5-Geranyloxy-7-methoxycoumarin Cooperate in the Cytotoxic Effect of Citrus bergamia (Bergamot) Essential Oil in Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cell Line

The plant kingdom has always been a treasure trove for valuable bioactive compounds, and Citrus fruits stand out among the others. Bergamottin (BRG) and 5-geranyloxy-7-methoxycoumarin (5-G-7-MOC) are two coumarins found in different Citrus species with well-acknowledged pharmacological properties. Previously, they have been claimed to be relevant in the anti-proliferative effects exerted by bergamot essential oil (BEO) in the SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. This study was designed to verify this assumption and to assess the mechanisms underlying the anti-proliferative effect of both compounds. Our results demonstrate that BRG and 5-G-7-MOC are able to reduce the proliferation of SH-SY5Y cells, inducing apoptosis and increasing cell population in sub-G0/G1 phase. Moreover, we demonstrated the pro-oxidant activity of the two coumarins that increased reactive oxygen species and impaired mitochondrial membrane potential. From a molecular point of view, BRG and 5-G-7-MOC were able to modulate apoptosis related factors at both protein and gene levels. Lastly, we evaluated the synergistic effect of their combination, finding that the highest synergy was observed at a concentration ratio similar to that occurring in the BEO, supporting our initial hypothesis. Taken together, our results deepen the knowledge regarding the effect of BRG and 5-G-7-MOC in SH-SY5Y cells, emphasizing the relevance of their cooperation in achieving this effect.

Safety and efficacy of feed additives consisting of expressed lemon oil and its fractions from Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck and of lime oil from Citrus aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle for use in all animal species (FEFANA asbl)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of expressed lemon oil and distilled lemon oil from Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck and lime oil from Citrus aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle, when used as sensory additives in feed for all animal species. The use of the expressed lemon oil and its residual fraction and the use of lime oil in feed is not expected to increase the exposure to furocoumarins and methoxycoumarins and perillaldehyde of those target species that are already fed citrus by-products a relevant extent (< 10%). For companion animals and ornamental fish not normally exposed to citrus by-products, no conclusion can be drawn. For the other species and for the distilled fraction of expressed lemon oil, the FEEDAP Panel concludes that the additives under assessment are safe at the maximum proposed or at reduced use levels in complete feed. The Panel considers that the use in water for drinking is safe provided that the total daily intake of the additive does not exceed the daily amount that is considered safe when consumed via feed. No concerns for consumer safety were identified following the use of the additives at the maximum proposed use level in feed. The additives under assessment should be considered as irritants to skin and eyes and the respiratory tract and as skin sensitisers. Since expressed lemon oil and its fractions contain furocoumarins, they may cause phototoxicity. The use of the additives under the proposed conditions of use in animal feed is not expected to pose a risk for the environment. Since C. limon and C. aurantiifolia and their preparations are recognised to flavour food and its function in feed would be essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy is considered necessary.

Synthesis and Photoactivated Toxicity of 2-Thiophenylfuranocoumarin Induce Midgut Damage and Apoptosis in Aedes aegypti Larvae

Furanocoumarins are photoactive compounds derived from secondary plant metabolites. They possess many bioactivities, including antioxidative, anticancer, insecticidal, and bactericidal activities. Here, we designed a new scheme for synthesizing 2-arylfuranocoumarin derivatives by condensation, esterification, bromination, and Wittig reaction. We found that 2-thiophenylfuranocoumarin (Iy) had excellent photosensitive activity. Three Iy concentrations (LC₂₅, LC₅₀, and LC₇₅) were used to treat the fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti (A. aegypti). The photoactivated toxicity, sublethal dose, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress level, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and apoptosis were studied. The results showed that Iy induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in midgut cells under ultraviolet light. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated that mitochondria were damaged, and the activities of related enzymes were inhibited. Ultimately, Iy exposure led to excessive ROS production followed by the inhibition of antioxidant enzymes, including SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR, which diminished ROS elimination and escalated oxidative stress in midgut cells, aggravating the degree of oxidative damage in these cells. Histopathological changes were observed in the midgut, which led to intestinal barrier dysfunction. When the elimination of ROS was blocked and it accumulated in cells, apoptosis-related genes, including AeDronc, AeCaspase7, and AeCaspase8, were induced and activated. In addition, Iy affected the growth and development of A. aegypti at sublethal concentrations, and there was an obvious post-lethal effect. Thus, we found that Iy caused midgut damage and apoptosis in A. aegypti larvae under ultraviolet light, which preliminarily revealed the mode of action of Iy in A. aegypti.

Fanconi anemia-independent DNA inter-strand crosslink repair in eukaryotes

DNA inter-strand crosslinks (ICLs) are dangerous lesions that can be caused by a variety of endogenous and exogenous bifunctional compounds. Because covalently linking both strands of the double helix locally disrupts DNA replication and transcription, failure to remove even a single ICL can be fatal to the cell. Thus, multiple ICL repair pathways have evolved, with the best studied being the canonical Fanconi anemia (FA) pathway. However, recent research demonstrates that different types of ICLs (e.g., backbone distorting vs. non-distorting) can be discriminated by the cell, which then mounts a specific repair response using the FA pathway or one of a variety of FA-independent ICL repair pathways. This review focuses on the latter, covering current work on the transcription-coupled, base excision, acetaldehyde-induced, and SNM1A/RecQ4 ICL repair pathways and highlighting unanswered questions in the field. Answering these questions will provide mechanistic insight into the various pathways of ICL repair and enable ICL-inducing agents to be more effectively used as chemotherapeutics.

Association between Citrus Consumption and Melanoma Risk in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study

It has been hypothesized that consumption of citrus, a group of foods particularly rich in a class of photoactive compounds known as furocoumarins, may increase the risk of malignant melanoma. However, this hypothesis has not been rigorously studied in a general sample of US men and women. This study examined the relationship between citrus intake and melanoma risk in subjects of the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. Among 388,467 adults, 3,894 melanoma cases were identified during a median follow-up of 15.5 years. After adjustment for relevant potential confounders, total citrus consumption was not significantly associated with melanoma risk in this cohort. Among those with higher estimated exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and among those aged 60+ years at baseline, there were significant trends toward increased melanoma risk associated with whole citrus fruit consumption (P trends = 0.01 and 0.02, respectively), but the hazard ratios of the top consumers (2+ cups per week) vs. nonconsumers were nonsignificant. Further research is needed to explore associations of citrus with melanoma risk among older adults and those with high sun exposure.

Anticancer Potential of Furanocoumarins: Mechanistic and Therapeutic Aspects

Cancer is one of the most extreme medical conditions in both developing and developed countries around the world, causing millions of deaths each year. Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy are key for treatment approaches, but both have numerous adverse health effects. Furthermore, the resistance of cancerous cells to anticancer medication leads to treatment failure. The rising burden of cancer overall requires novel efficacious treatment modalities. Natural medications offer feasible alternative options against malignancy in contrast to western medication. Furanocoumarins' defensive and restorative impacts have been observed in leukemia, glioma, breast, lung, renal, liver, colon, cervical, ovarian, and prostate malignancies. Experimental findings have shown that furanocoumarins activate multiple signaling pathways, leading to apoptosis, autophagy, antioxidant, antimetastatic, and cell cycle arrest in malignant cells. Additionally, furanocoumarins have been shown to have chemo preventive and chemotherapeutic synergistic potential when used in combination with other anticancer drugs. Here, we address different pathways which are activated by furanocoumarins and their therapeutic efficacy in various tumors. Ideally, this review will trigger interest in furanocoumarins and their potential efficacy and safety as a cancer lessening agents.

Diversity of Secondary Metabolites in Roots from Conium maculatum L

BACKGROUND

Conium maculatum is known as highly toxic plant, due to piperidine alkaloids present in the aerial parts. In a first attempt, in various tap root samples, however, alkaloids could not be detected. The present study describes active compounds in the tap roots from 16 populations harvested at maturity. The compounds were extracted with dichloromethane from root pieces of single plants and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Ten bioactive compounds were evaluated: five furocoumarins, two prenylated coumarins, two aliphatic C₁₇-polyacetylenes and the phenylpropanoid elemicin. A high variability could be observed, the highest concentrations were measured for falcarindiol, xanthotoxin and isopimpinellin, the lowest for elemicin. In sum C. maculatum roots contained comparable amounts of compounds that are characteristic for Apiaceae, and also occur in vegetables as carrots, parsnip, parsley or celeriac.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) hepatotoxicity increases in the presence of an added herbal compound

Hepatotoxicity from paracetamol/acetaminophen has occasionally been reported at lower than expected doses. As herbal preparations may interact with pharmaceutical drugs the following in vitro study was undertaken to determine whether the toxic effects of paracetamol on liver cell growth in culture would be exacerbated by the addition of psoralen, a furanocoumarin compound that is present in Psoralea corylifolia, a common Chinese herb. The following study utilising a liver carcinoma cell line (HepG2) showed that Psoralea corylifolia was significantly toxic from 0.3 mg/ml to 5 mg/ml (p < 0.05), whereas paracetamol was not toxic below 50 mM (p = 0.0026). Interactions between previously non-toxic levels of 0.1 mg/ml of Psoralea corylifolia and increasing concentrations of paracetamol (0-50 mM), however, were observed, with a significant increase in toxicity compared to paracetamol alone (30% cell death vs. 72% cell death with Psoralea corylifolia). A significant synergistic interaction was observed at 40 mM paracetamol with 0.1 mg/ml of Psoralea (p = 0.038). This study has, therefore, shown significantly increased hepatotoxicity in cell cultures exposed to paracetamol when herbal compounds containing furanocoumarins were added. Fulminant acute liver failure occurring after the ingestion of low doses of paracetamol may not, therefore, always be due to an occult idiosyncratic response to paracetamol, but instead possibly to the combined effects of paracetamol and herbal preparations. Given the widespread use of both paracetamol and herbal preparations this possibility should be considered in cases of unexplained hepatic necrosis and liver failure that present for medicolegal investigation.

The Prangos genus: a comprehensive review on traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities

The members of the Prangos genus (Apiaceae) have been widely applied in the Iranian traditional medicine internally and externally for different purposes. The aim of this review is to summarize the ethnomedicinal and food applications of Prangos species and to gather the phytochemical and pharmacological data on this genus. Among the 129 constituents isolated from Prangos species, coumarin derivatives are the main compounds. Several papers report the compositions of essential oils obtained from different plant parts, mostly containing monoterpene and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. Various pharmacological activities of essential oils, crude extracts or isolated compounds of the Prangos species have been observed, primarily in in vitro experiments. Antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and anti-proliferative activities have been the most extensively studied. The efficacy and safety of Prangos plants have not been assessed in animal experiments or clinical trials. Although their furocoumarin content might be a source of adverse effects, toxic effects of Prangos species have not been reported. It can be concluded, that further preclinical and clinical data are necessary to assess the rationale and safety of the medicinal and food use of Prangos species.

Furanocoumarins in anticancer therapy - For and against

Furanocoumarins are a class of natural compounds produced by several plants, including those consumed by humans. They have been used medicinally in eastern countries for ages. Given the growing body of evidence about their anticancer potential and observations that naturally occurring compounds potentiate the antitumor activity of chemotherapeutics, more attention is paid to elucidation of the nature of furanocoumarins and the possibility of using thereof in practice. The general mechanism by which furanocoumarins eliminate cancer cells is based on cell cycle blockage and initiation of programmed death like apoptosis or autophagy. The precise molecular mechanism of such an action depends on the chemical structure of furanocoumarins, which is based on the furan ring attached to the coumarin backbone in a linear or angular form as well as the type, location, and number of the substituents attached. The review summarizes the current evidence of the antitumor properties of linear and angular furanocoumarins with special emphasis on the molecular mechanism of elimination of cancer cells via apoptosis and autophagy. Negative aspects of the use of coumarins in anticancer therapy will be also discussed especially in the context of their phototoxicity and potential cancerogenic effect.

Structure Based Multitargeted Molecular Docking Analysis of Selected Furanocoumarins against Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the biggest global dilemmas and its current therapy is to target the hormone receptors by the use of partial agonists/antagonists. Potent drugs for breast cancer treatment are Tamoxifen, Trastuzumab, Paclitaxel, etc. which show adverse effects and resistance in patients. The aim of the study has been on certain phytochemicals which has potent actions on ERα, PR, EGFR and mTOR inhibition. The current study is performed by the use of molecular docking as protein-ligand interactions play a vital role in drug design. The 3D structures of ERα, PR, EGFR and mTOR were obtained from the protein data bank and docked with 23 3D PubChem structures of furanocoumarin compounds using FlexX. Drug-likeness property was checked by applying the Lipinski's rule of five on the furanocoumarins to evaluate anti-breast cancer activity. Antagonist and inhibition assay of ERα, EGFR and mTOR respectively has been performed using appropriate in-vitro techniques. The results confirm that Xanthotoxol has the best docking score for breast cancer followed by Bergapten, Angelicin, Psoralen and Isoimperatorin. Further, the in-vitro results also validate the molecular docking analysis. This study suggests that the selected furanocoumarins can be further investigated and evaluated for breast cancer treatment and management strategies.

Furocoumarin Content of Fennel-Below the Safety Threshold

Furocoumarins are known for their phototoxic and potential carcinogenic effects. These types of compounds have previously been reported from fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), a widely used medicinal plant and spice; however, no reliable quantitative data are available on the occurrence of these compounds in fennel fruits. For the first time, we report a comprehensive analysis of fennel fruit samples of different origins, representing a wide range of accessions for their furocoumarin content. Psoralene, 5-methoxypsoralene (bergapten), and imperatorin contents of 33 fennel samples were analyzed using a sensitive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method. When applied at the highest therapeutic dose described in the monograph issued by the European Medicines Agency, the furocoumarin content of the fruits ranged up to 1.22 μg/d, which is below the most restrictive recommendations. Based on our findings, fennel consumption can be considered as safe, at least based on its low furocoumarin content.

Citrus Consumption and Risk of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma in the Women's Health Initiative

Citrus products are rich sources of furocoumarins, a class of photoactive compounds. Certain furocoumarins combined with ultraviolet radiation can induce skin cancer. We examined the relationship between citrus consumption and cutaneous melanoma risk among 56,205 Caucasian postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of melanoma by citrus intake level. During a mean follow-up of 15.7 years, 956 incident melanoma cases were documented. In multivariable adjusted models, the HR (95% CI) for melanoma was 1.12 (0.91, 1.37) among the highest citrus consumers (1.5+ servings/day of fruit or juice) versus the lowest (<2 servings/week), 0.95 (0.76, 1.20) among the highest citrus fruit consumers (5+ servings/week) versus non-consumers, and was 1.13 (0.96, 1.32) for the highest citrus juice consumers (1+ servings/day) versus the lowest (<1 serving/week). In stratified analyses, an increased melanoma risk associated with citrus juice intake was observed among women who spent the most time outdoors in summer as adults; the HR for the highest versus lowest intake was 1.22 (1.02, 1.46) (p trend = 0.03). Further research is needed to explore the association of melanoma with citrus juices among women with high sun exposure.

Botanical Sources, Chemistry, Analysis, and Biological Activity of Furanocoumarins of Pharmaceutical Interest

The aim of this work is to provide a critical review of plant furanocoumarins from different points of view, including their chemistry and biosynthetic pathways to their extraction, analysis, and synthesis, to the main biological activities found for these active compounds, in order to highlight their potential within pharmaceutical science. The limits and the possible improvements needed for research involving these molecules are also highlighted and discussed.