Pycnogenol: a blend of procyanidins with multifaceted therapeutic applications?

Enhancing pediatric attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment: exploring the gut microbiota effects of French maritime pine bark extract and methylphenidate intervention

Introduction

The pathogenesis of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is thought to be multifactorial, with a potential role for the bidirectional communication between the gut microbiome and brain development and function. Since the "golden-standard" medication therapy with methylphenidate (MPH) is linked to multiple adverse effects, there is a need for alternative treatment options such as dietary polyphenols. These secondary plant metabolites exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but much less is known about their impact on the gut microbiota. Since polyphenols are believed to modulate gut microbial composition, interventions might be advantageous in ADHD therapy. Therefore, intervention studies with polyphenols in ADHD therapy investigating the gut microbial composition are highly relevant.

Methods

Besides the primary research questions addressed previously, this study explored a potential prebiotic effect of the polyphenol-rich French Maritime Pine Bark Extract (PBE) compared to MPH and a placebo in pediatric ADHD patients by studying their impact on the gut microbiota via amplicon sequencing of the full length 16S rRNA gene ribosomal subunit (V1-V9).

Results

One interesting finding was the high relative abundance of Bifidobacteria among all patients in our study cohort. Moreover, our study has identified that treatment (placebo, MPH and PBE) explains 3.94% of the variation in distribution of microbial taxa (adjusted p-value of 0.011).

Discussion

Our small sample size (placebo: n = 10; PBE: n = 13 and MPH: n = 14) did not allow to observe clear prebiotic effects in the patients treated with PBE. Notwithstanding this limitation, subtle changes were noticeable and some limited compositional changes could be observed.

Clinical Trial Registration

doi: 10.1186/S13063-017-1879-6.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification to reveal the anti-inflammatory ingredients and molecular mechanism of pycnogenol

Introduction: Pycnogenol (PYC), a standardized extract from French maritime pine, has traditionally been used to treat inflammation. However, its primary active components and their mechanisms of action have not yet been determined. Methods: This study employed UPLC-MS/MS (Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) and network pharmacology to identify the potential active components of PYC and elucidate their anti-inflammatory mechanisms by cell experiments. Results: 768 PYC compounds were identified and 19 anti-inflammatory compounds were screened with 85 target proteins directly involved in the inflammation. PPI (protein-protein interaction) analysis identified IL6, TNF, MMP9, IL1B, AKT1, IFNG, CXCL8, NFKB1, CCL2, IL10, and PTGS2 as core targets. KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analysis suggested that the compound in PYC might exert anti-inflammatory effects through the IL17 and TNF signal pathways. Cell experiments determined that PYC treatment can reduce the expression of IL6 and IL1β to relieve inflammation in LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced BV2 cells. Conclusion: PYC could affect inflammation via multi-components, -targets, and -mechanisms.

Review of the pharmacokinetics of French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®) in humans

The French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol® is a proprietary product from Pinus pinaster Aiton. It complies with the quality specifications in the United States Pharmacopeia monograph "Pine extract" in the section of dietary supplements. Pycnogenol® is standardized to contain 65-75% procyanidins which are a variety of biopolymers consisting of catechin and epicatechin monomeric units. The effects of Pycnogenol® have been researched in a multitude of human studies. The basis for any in vivo activity is the bioavailability of constituents and metabolites of the extract. General principles of compound absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination as well as specific data from studies with Pycnogenol® are summarized and discussed in this review. Based on plasma concentration profiles it can be concluded that low molecular weight constituents of the extract, such as catechin, caffeic and ferulic acid, taxifolin are readily absorbed from the small intestine into systemic circulation. Procyanidin oligomers and polymers are subjected to gut microbial degradation in the large intestine yielding small bioavailable metabolites such as 5-(3',4'-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone. After intake of Pycnogenol®, constituents and metabolites have been also detected in blood cells, synovial fluid and saliva indicating a substantial distribution in compartments other than serum. In studies simultaneously investigating concentrations in different specimen, a preferential distribution of individual compounds has been observed, e.g., of ferulic acid and 5-(3',4'-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone into synovial fluid compared to serum. The main route of elimination of constituents and metabolites of the French pine bark extract is the renal excretion. The broad knowledge accumulated regarding the pharmacokinetics of compounds and metabolites of Pycnogenol® constitute a rational basis for effects characterized on a cellular level and observed in human clinical studies.

Factors Influencing Venous Remodeling in the Development of Varicose Veins of the Lower Limbs

One of the early symptoms of chronic venous disease (CVD) is varicose veins (VV) of the lower limbs. There are many etiological environmental factors influencing the development of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), although genetic factors and family history of the disease play a key role. All these factors induce changes in the hemodynamic in the venous system of the lower limbs leading to blood stasis, hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), changes in microcirculation and, consequently, the remodeling of the venous wall. The aim of this review is to present current knowledge on CVD, including the pathophysiology and mechanisms related to vein wall remodeling. Particular emphasis has been placed on describing the role of inflammation and oxidative stress and the involvement of extracellular hemoglobin as pathogenetic factors of VV. Additionally, active substances used in the treatment of VV were discussed.

Bioactive Molecules from Myrianthus arboreus, Acer rubrum, and Picea mariana Forest Resources

Forest trees are the world's most important renewable natural resources in terms of their dominance among other biomasses and the diversity of molecules that they produce. Forest tree extractives include terpenes and polyphenols, widely recognized for their biological activity. These molecules are found in forest by-products, such as bark, buds, leaves, and knots, commonly ignored in forestry decisions. The present literature review focuses on in vitro experimental bioactivity from the phytochemicals of Myrianthus arboreus, Acer rubrum, and Picea mariana forest resources and by-products with potential for further nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, and pharmaceutical development. Although these forest extracts function as antioxidants in vitro and may act on signaling pathways involved in diabetes, psoriasis, inflammation, and skin aging, much still remains to be investigated before using them as therapeutic candidates, cosmetics, or functional foods. Traditional forest management systems focused on wood must evolve towards a holistic approach, allowing the use of these extractives for developing new value-added products.

Effect of a polyphenol-rich dietary supplement containing Pinus massoniana bark extract on blood pressure in healthy adults: A parallel, randomized placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

High blood pressure (BP) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and prevalence rates continue to rise with ageing populations. Polypharmacy remains a burden among the ageing, thus alternative effective strategies are warranted. This study investigated the effects of a polyphenols rich dietary supplement containing Pinus massoniana bark extract (PMBE) for modulating BP in healthy Australian adults.

DESIGN

This study is a secondary analysis of data from a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

METHODS

Sixty-two healthy adults aged 55-75 years were randomized to receive 50 mL dietary supplement containing placebo (0 mg PMBE) or PMBE (1322 mg PMBE) daily for 12 weeks. Seated systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) were measured at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Effects of PMBE on modulating BP was also explored in this study stratified for SBP status (optimal v high) as well as by SBP medication status. Mixed effect regression modelling was employed involving fixed categorical effects for elapsed time, treatment assignment and their interaction as well as random subject-level intercept to account for within-subject correlations resulting from repeated measurements. Significant models were further examined by addition of covariates and power calculations were performed since this study was a secondary analysis.

RESULTS

SBP significantly reduced (-3.29 mmHg, p = 0.028) after PMBE at 12 weeks compared to baseline. SBP in individuals with normal-high SBP (>120 mmHg) in the PMBE group reduced by - 6.46 mmHg (p = 0.001) at 12 weeks compared to baseline. No significant changes were reported for individuals with optimal (≤120 mmHg) SBP nor did DBP significantly change in either study groups. In individuals with non-medicated normal-high SBP, SBP significantly reduced by - 7.49 mmHg (p = 0.001) and DBP by - 3.06 mmHg (p = 0.011) at 12 weeks compared to baseline after PMBE. Cross-group comparisons were not statistically different.

CONCLUSIONS

A polyphenol-rich dietary supplement derived from PMBE led to a clinically and statistically significant reduction in SBP in adults. Future studies to investigate the effects of PMBE-polyphenol supplementation on BP are warranted to confirm and explore optimal dose and impact on hypertension.

LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS and NMR Analysis of Conifer Wood Specialized Metabolites

Many species from the Pinaceae family have been recognized as a rich source of lignans, flavonoids, and other polyphenolics. The great common occurrence of conifers in Europe, as well as their use in the wood industry, makes both plant material and industrial waste material easily accessible and inexpensive. This is a promising prognosis for both discovery of new active compounds as well as for finding new applications for wood and its industry waste products. This study aimed to analyze and phytochemically profile 13 wood extracts of the Pinaceae family species, endemic or introduced in Polish flora, using the LC-DAD–ESI-MS/MS method and compare their respective metabolite profiles. Branch wood methanolic extracts were phytochemically profiled. Lignans, stilbenes, flavonoids, diterpenes, procyanidins, and other compounds were detected, with a considerable variety of chemical content among distinct species. Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H.Karst.) branch wood was the most abundant source of stilbenes, European larch (Larix decidua Mill.) mostly contained flavonoids, while silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) was rich in lignans. Furthermore, 10 lignans were isolated from the studied material. Our findings confirm that wood industry waste materials, such as conifer branches, can be a potent source of different phytochemicals, with the plant matrix being relatively simple, facilitating future isolation of target compounds.

Quantitative Changes of Phenolic Compounds in Pine Twigs by Variety, Harvest Season, and Growing Region

Three new phenolic compounds including pinosylvin 3-methoxy-5-O-β-D-glucoside (PMG), taxiresinol 4'-O-α-L-rhamnoside (TRR), and lariciresinol 4'-O-α-L-rhamnoside (LRR) were first isolated and identified from red pine (Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc.) twigs, together with four known compounds, such as (+)-catechin (CC), dihydromyricetin (DHM), dihydroquercetin 3-O-β-D-glucoside (DHQG), and dihydroquercetin (DHQ). Additionally, the concentrations of seven phenolic compounds in pine twigs were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography based on cultivars, harvest seasons, and growing environments. Red and black pine twigs contain 379.33 and 308.83 mg/100 g of PMG as the predominant phenolics, respectively, and their contents were significantly higher in spring than in autumn. Red pine twigs contain higher amounts of three dihydroflavonols (DHM: 87.82, DHQG: 38.47, and DHQ: 68.07 mg/100 g) and two lignans (LRR: 15.63, TRR: 30.72 mg/100 g) than black pine twigs, except for higher (+)-CC level (21.88 mg/100 g) in black pine twigs. Two pine twigs had much higher flavonoid and lignan levels in the autumn than they had in the spring. Two pine twigs harvested in several different areas do not significantly differ in their phenolic compositions and contents. These results suggest that red pine twigs possessing phytochemical phenolics may be useful as potential sources for promoting human health.

Antioxidant Effects of a Polyphenol-Rich Dietary Supplement Incorporating Pinus massoniana Bark Extract in Healthy Older Adults: A Two-Arm, Parallel Group, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial

Oxidative stress is a key physiological phenomenon underpinning the ageing process and plays a major developmental role in age-associated chronic diseases. This study investigated the antioxidant effects of a polyphenol-rich dietary supplement containing Pinus massoniana bark extract (PMBE) in healthy older adults. In a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial, participants were randomised (in a 1:1 ratio) to receive a 50 mL/day dietary supplement containing placebo (0 mg PMBE) or PMBE (1322 mg PMBE) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was fasting plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and secondary outcomes were plasma inflammatory markers. MDA concentrations significantly reduced following PMBE for 6 weeks (−1.19 nmol/mL, 95%CI −1.62, −0.75, p < 0.001) and 12 weeks (−1.35 nmol/mL, 95%CI −1.74, −0.96, p < 0.001) compared to baseline. MDA did not significantly change after the placebo. MDA levels at 6 and 12 weeks were significantly lower following PMBE compared to placebo (p < 0.001). At 12 weeks in the PMBE group, fibrinogen concentrations significantly reduced (−0.25 g/L, 95%CI −0.39, −0.11; p < 0.0001) and interleukin-6 significantly increased compared to placebo (0.30 pg/mL, 95%CI 0.02, 0.59; p < 0.05). PMBE in a polyphenol-rich dietary supplement reduced oxidative stress in healthy older adults. Further studies are warranted to investigate the antioxidant capacity of PMBE in conditions with heightened oxidative stress, such as osteoarthritis, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or other lifestyle related diseases.

The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects

The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.

Pycnogenol a promising remedy for diabetic keratopathy in experimentally induced corneal alkali burns in diabetic rats

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of topically applied pycnogenol (PYC) in healing the standardized alkaline corneal ulcer in diabetic and normal rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The corneal alkali-burn injury (CA-I) model was unilaterally developed in Wistar rats by filter paper saturated with 0.01 M of NaOH and touching the eyes for 45 s. Rats were divided into four groups: Normal control (NC), normal PYC (NPYC), diabetic control (DC), and diabetic PYC (DPYC). Both NPYC and DPYC groups were daily treated with PY eye drops three times, whereas NC and DC ones were treated with ordinary saline for six successive days.

RESULTS

The wound healing of corneal epithelial was improved in the NPYC group compared to the NC group. Meanwhile, it was significantly improved (P < 0.05) in the DPYC group than in the DC group. Histological examination revealed that corneal re-epithelialization was more accomplished in the DPYC group than in the DC group. In addition, the inflammatory cells were augmented in the DC group more than those in the DPYC one.

CONCLUSION

The findings obtained revealed the efficiency of PYC for enhancing the corneal re-epithelialization and reducing the inflammatory reaction post alkali burn in rats, and thus it could be beneficially valuable as a treatment for the diabetic keratopathy.

Protective Effect of Pycnogenol against Methotrexate-Induced Hepatic, Renal, and Cardiac Toxicity: An In Vivo Study

Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapies for various types of cancer, including leukemia, breast cancer, hepatocarcinoma, and gastric cancers. However, the efficacy of MTX is frequently limited by serious side effects. Several studies have reported that the cytotoxic effect of MTX is not limited to cancer cells but can also affect normal tissues, leading to prospective damage to many organs. In the present study, we extensively investigated the molecular and microscopic basis of MTX-induced toxicity in different organs (liver, kidney, and heart) and explored the possible protective effect of pycnogenol, a polyphenolic component extracted from the bark of P. pinaster, to attenuate these effects. Biochemical analysis revealed that administration of MTX significantly reduced the function of the liver, kidney, and heart. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis indicated that MTX treatment caused damage to tissues of different organs. Interestingly, administration of pycnogenol (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the deterioration effects of MTX on different organs in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated by biochemical and histological analysis. Our results reveal that pycnogenol successfully ameliorated oxidative damage and reduced toxicity, inflammatory response, and histological markers induced by methotrexate treatment. Taken together, this study provides solid evidence for the pharmacological application of pycnogenol to attenuate damage to different organs induced by MTX treatment.

Effect of Dietary Polyphenols on Osteoarthritis-Molecular Mechanisms

Osteoarthritis is a common crippling and degenerative disease resulting in irreversible functional changes due to damage of the cartilage and other tissues of the joint. With limited safe and effective pharmaceutical treatments, the demand and use for alternative therapeutic approaches with symptomatic relief for OA patients have increased. Clinical, pre-clinical, and in vitro studies have demonstrated that polyphenols can exert pain-relieving symptoms coupled with increased functional capacity in OA models. This review will highlight studies carried out in the last five years to define the efficacies and underlying mechanisms in polyphenols such as quercetin, resveratrol, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, rosmarinic acid, genistein, ginger, berries, silver fir, pine bark, and Boswellia. Most of these studies indicate that polyphenols exhibit their beneficial roles through regulating changes at the biochemical and molecular levels, inducing or inhibiting various signaling pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress. Polyphenols have also been implicated in modulating microRNA at the posttranscriptional level to counteract OA pathogenesis.

Dietary Supplements and the Skin: Focus on Photoprotection and Antioxidant Activity—A Review

Skin health is not only significantly affected by ageing, but also by other lifestyle-related factors, such as sun exposure, exercise and eating habits, smoking or alcohol intake. It is known that the cutaneous tissue can exhibit visible signs of senescence, in the form of, for example, dull complexion, loss of firmness, or changes in pigmentation. Consumers attempt to improve skin health and appearance not only by cosmetic products, but also with the consumption of food supplements. Recently, there has been an increase in the amount of food supplements with claims that are related to skin and hair health. Nevertheless, the literature is still scarce in evidence of the efficacy of this type of products. Considering this scenario, we aim in this review to assemble studies and methodologies that are directed at the substantiation of the cutaneous health claims of food supplements. For example, we reviewed those that were indicative of antioxidant properties, improvement in pigmentation disorders, increased hydration or protection against the damages caused by ultraviolet radiation.

Pycnogenol ameliorates motor function and gene expressions of NF-ƙB and Nrf2 in a 6-hydroxydopamine-induced experimental model of Parkinson's disease in male NMRI mice

We investigated the effect of Pycnogenol as an antioxidant on improving motor function, depression, and the expression of NF-ƙB and Nrf2 genes in the experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Forty adult male NMRI mice weighing about 30 g were randomly divided into five groups of eight. Saline group: received 3 μl of saline, as 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) solvent, unilaterally in the left striatum, treatment groups: first received 3 µl 6-OHDA unilaterally inside the ipsilateral striatum and then divided into subgroup A: received distilled water, Pycnogenol solvent, by gavage for 7 days (lesion group), and subgroup B: received Pycnogenol at doses of 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg by gavage for 7 days. Seven days after Parkinson's model induction, the apomorphine test, the degree of catalepsy by bar test, the duration of immobility (depression) by forced swimming test (FST) were measured. In addition, the expression of NF-ƙB and Nrf2 genes was measured using the real-time PCR technique. The total number of rotations in the apomorphine test decreased significantly in the groups receiving Pycnogenol. Administration of Pycnogenol significantly reduced catalepsy. The study of depression in the group receiving Pycnogenol showed a significant reduction. Also, Pycnogenol increased the expression of the Nrf2 anti-inflammatory gene, but it had no significant difference in the expression of NF-ƙB gene. Pycnogenol, presumably with its antioxidative and genomic effects, improves the expression of the anti-inflammatory gene and found that neuroprotection effect in the brain.

Corrosion resistance and antibacterial activity of procyanidin B2 as a novel environment-friendly inhibitor for Q235 steel in 1 M HCl solution

Flavonoids, alkaloids, glucosides and tannins with good corrosion inhibition are the main natural components in plants. In this work, procyanidin B2 (PCB2), a natural flavonoid, was firstly isolated from Uncaria laevigata. Corrosion inhibition, chemical reactivity and adsorption of PCB2 on Q235 carbon steel were described by experimental and theoretical studies. The inhibition performance of PCB2 as a green corrosion inhibitor was evaluated by electrochemical and gravimetric tests. The binding active sites and activities thereof on the steel surface were illustrated by quantum chemistry, and the equilibrium configuration was predicted by molecular dynamics simulation. PCB2 exhibits good corrosion inhibition on Q235 steel over a wide temperature range. The electrochemical results show that PCB2 is a mixed inhibitor, and its inhibition efficiency increases with the addition of PCB2 concentration. Moreover, the protective film is formed on the steel and the active corrosion sites are blocked significantly by surface analysis. Additionally, the theoretical calculation proves a strong interaction between PCB2 molecule and carbon steel. Besides, the antimicrobial activity was also preliminarily studied. This suggests that PCB2 exhibits better antimicrobial activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. As a novel green corrosion inhibitor and antimicrobial agent, PCB2 is worthy of further exploitation.

Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia by Natural Drugs

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urinary diseases affecting men, generally after the age of 50. The prevalence of this multifactorial disease increases with age. With aging, the plasma level of testosterone decreases, as well as the testosterone/estrogen ratio, resulting in increased estrogen activity, which may facilitate the hyperplasia of the prostate cells. Another theory focuses on dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and the activity of the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. In older men, the activity of this enzyme increases, leading to a decreased testosterone/DHT ratio. DHT may promote prostate cell growth, resulting in hyperplasia. Some medicinal plants and their compounds act by modulating this enzyme, and have the above-mentioned targets. This review focuses on herbal drugs that are most widely used in the treatment of BPH, including pumpkin seed, willow herb, tomato, maritime pine bark, Pygeum africanum bark, rye pollen, saw palmetto fruit, and nettle root, highlighting the latest results of preclinical and clinical studies, as well as safety issues. In addition, the pharmaceutical care and other therapeutic options of BPH, including pharmacotherapy and surgical options, are discussed, summarizing and comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each therapy.

The Effects of the Trifolium Pratense L. Extract on the Leukemia Inhibitory Factor and its Receptor in The Endometrial Epithelial Cell Line

Isoflavones have attracted much notice due to their health advantages; however, a comprehensive understanding of the effects of isoflavones on endometrium biology remains undiscovered. The expression and deficiency of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and LIF receptor (LIFR) has been shown to be involved in multiple implantations failures in female infertility. Mechanisms implicated in the failure of implantations require further researches, thus our aim is to investigate the effect of the Trifolium pratense L. isoflavone extract with abundant formononetin content on implantation through assessing LIF and LIFR expressions. The Ishikawa cells were cultured with 20, 30, and 40 µg/mL concentrations of Trifolium pratense L. isoflavone extracts for 24 h and detected staining intensity of LIF and LIFR by immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence staining using image analysis software. As compared with the control and 20 µg/mL Trifolium pratense L. groups, the staining intensity of LIF and LIFR in 30 and 40 µg/mL Trifolium pratense L. groups were significantly increased ( P < .0001). Our findings suggest that Trifolium pratense L. isoflavone extract may alter the endometrium expression of LIF and LIFR in the human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line.

Pinus Species as Prospective Reserves of Bioactive Compounds with Potential Use in Functional Food-Current State of Knowledge

The pine (Pinus L.) is the largest and most heteromorphic plant genus of the pine family (Pinaceae Lindl.), which grows almost exclusively in the northern hemisphere. The demand for plant-based remedies, supplements and functional food is growing worldwide. Although pine-based products are widely available in many parts of the world, they are almost absent as food ingredients. The literature shows the beneficial effects of pine preparations on human health. Despite the wide geographical distribution of pine trees in the natural environment, there are very few data in the literature on the widespread use of pine in food technology. This study aims to present, characterise and evaluate the content of phytochemicals in pine trees, including shoots, bark and conifer needles, as well as to summarise the available data on their health-promoting and functional properties, and the potential of their use in food and the pharmaceutical industry to support health. Various species of pine tree contain different compositions of bioactive compounds. Regardless of the solvent, method, pine species and plant part used, all pine extracts contain a high number of polyphenols. Pine tree extracts exhibit several described biological activities that may be beneficial to human health. The available examples of the application of pine elements in food are promising. The reuse of residual pine elements is still limited compared to its potential. In this case, it is necessary to conduct more research to find and develop new products and applications of pine residues and by-products.

Evaluation of the Neuroprotective Effect of Pycnogenol in a Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury Model in Newborn Rats

OBJECTIVE

 This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Pycnogenol (PYC) and its antioxidant and antiapoptotic effect in an experimental hypoxic-ischemic (HI) rat model.

STUDY DESIGN

 A total of 24 Wistar albino rats who were on the seventh postnatal day were divided into three groups with developed HI brain injury model under the sevoflurane anesthesia: 40 mg/kg PYC was given to Group A, saline was given to Group B, and the sham group was Group C. Neuronal apoptosis was investigated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling and immunohistochemically stained manually with primer antibodies of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β.

RESULTS

 The neuronal cell injury was statistically lower in the PYC treatment group.

CONCLUSION

 This is the first study that investigates the role of PYC in the HI brain injury model. PYC reduces apoptosis and neuronal injury in the cerebral tissue of the rats. PYC may be a protective agent against hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

KEY POINTS

· This is the first study that investigates the role of PYC in the HI brain injury model.. · PYC may be a protective agent against hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.. · Sevoflurane should not be preferred in rat studies where neuronal apoptosis will be investigated..

Oligopin® Supplementation Mitigates Oxidative Stress in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Evidence indicates a close association between oxidative stress and the etiopathogenesis of osteopenia. In vitro and animal studies report that Oligopin®, an extract of French maritime pine bark extract, has beneficial effects on oxidative stress.

PURPOSE

Here, we aimed to determine whether supplementation with Oligopin® affects bone turnover markers, antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative stress markers in these patients.

METHODS

Forty-three postmenopausal women with osteopenia were randomized in a placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to receive either 150 mg/day Oligopin® (n = 22) or placebo (n = 21) for 12 weeks. Plasma levels of bone turnover markers; osteocalcin (OC), type I collagen cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTX-1), OC/CTX1 ratio along with total antioxidant capacity(TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, protein carbonyl, and total thiol contents in plasma, activities of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and catalase in both peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma as well as mRNA expression of MnSOD, catalase, and Nrf2 in PBMCs were measured at the baseline and the end of the intervention.

RESULTS

Oligopin® supplementation significantly increased OC levels and the ratio of OC to CTX1 in women with osteopenia compared to placebo intervention after 12 weeks. Oligopin® significantly decreased plasma protein carbonyl content in postmenopausal women compared with the after placebo treatment. Moreover, Oligopin® intervention significantly increased plasma total thiol content, TAC, plasma activity of both MnSOD and catalase, and the transcript level of Nrf2, MnSOD, and catalase in comparison with the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with 150 mg/day Oligopin® for 12 weeks exerts beneficial effects in postmenopausal osteopenia through improving the antioxidant defense system in the plasma and PBMCs that was accompanied by an increase in indicators of bone turnover.

Pine Bark Phenolic Extracts, Current Uses, and Potential Food Applications: A Review

PURPOSE

To summarize the main findings from research on food uses of Pine Bark Phenolic Extracts (PBPE), their origin, methods of extraction, composition, health effects, and incorporation into food products.

METHODS

A narrative review of all the relevant papers known to the authors was conducted.

RESULTS

PBPE are mainly extracted from the bark Pinus pinaster. They are generally rich in procyanidins and their effects on health in the form of nutritional supplements include effect on some forms of cancer, on diabetes, on eye and skin health. Their method of extraction influences greatly their composition and yield, and commercially suitable methods are still to be developed. Incorporation into food products raises challenges related to bioavailability and subsequent bioactivity and sensory properties of the final products.

CONCLUSION

PBPE represent an opportunity for the development of functional foods with phenolic-rich bioactive compounds.

Can the biological mechanisms of ageing be corrected by food supplementation. The concept of health care over sick care

"From care for the sick to care for health" implies that age-related diseases and discomforts, which impair the quality of life, should be prevented rather than treated. Healthy lifestyle and nutrition, and hormone supplementation - when needed - are of crucial importance. Food supplementation with nutraceuticals composed of vitamins, oligo-minerals, plant extracts and essential amino- and fatty acids should reduce age-related oxidative and epigenetic damage to DNA, and inhibit inflammatory and metabolic impairment. This study of the potential beneficial effects of novel nutraceuticals on the biological mechanisms of physical and mental ageing suggests these supplements may be scientifically justified. In the absence of adverse side effects and the expected favourable effect on the quality-adjusted life years, the benefit over risk ratio of nutraceutical supplementation should be positive.

An In Vitro Study on the Interactions of Pycnogenol® with Cisplatin in Human Cervical Cancer Cells

Objectives

In the treatment of cancer, it is intended to increase the anticancer effect and decrease cytotoxicity using various plant-derived phenolic compounds with chemotherapeutic drugs. Pycnogenol^® (PYC), a phenolic compound, has been the subject of many studies. Since the mechanisms of the interactions of PYC with cisplatin need to be clarified, we aimed to determine the effects of PYC on cisplatin cytotoxicity in human cervix cancer cells (HeLa) and to evaluate the genotoxicity of PYC.

Materials and Methods

The cytotoxicity of cisplatin and PYC was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in HeLa cells for 24 h and 48 h. The effect of PYC against oxidative DNA damage was evaluated using the comet assay.

Results

The IC₅₀ values of cisplatin were 22.4 μM and 12.3 μM for 24 h and 48 h, respectively. The IC₅₀ values of PYC were 261 μM and 213 μM for 24 h and 48 h, respectively. For 24 h exposure, PYC significantly reduced the IC₅₀ value of cisplatin at the selected concentrations (15.6-500 μM). For 48 h exposure, PYC did not change the cytotoxicity of cisplatin at concentrations between 15.6 and 125 μM, but significantly reduced it at concentrations of 250 μM and 500 μM. PYC alone did not induce DNA damage at concentrations of 10 μM or 25 μM; however, it significantly induced DNA damage at higher concentrations (50-100 μM). It also significantly reduced H₂O₂-induced DNA damage at all concentrations studied (10-100 μM).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that PYC may increase the cisplatin cytotoxicity in HeLa cells at nongenotoxic doses. The results might contribute to the anticancer effect of cisplatin with PYC in cervical carcinoma, but in order to confirm this result further in vitro studies with cancer cell lines and in vivo studies are needed.

An Acute, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind, Crossover, Dose-Response, Exploratory Study to Assess the Effects of New Zealand Pine Bark Extract (Enzogenol®) on Glycaemic Responses in Healthy Participants

An acute, placebo-controlled, single-blind, crossover, dose-response, exploratory study was designed to investigate the hypoglycaemic effects of New Zealand pine bark extract (Enzogenol®). Twenty-five healthy participants categorised into having a monophasic or complex (biphasic or triphasic) glucose curve shape at the control visit consumed a placebo and Enzogenol® (50 and 400 mg) on three separate occasions before an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In the monophasic group, 50 and 400 mg of Enzogenol® significantly reduced the mean glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC) compared to control 241.3 ± 20.2 vs. 335.4 ± 34.0 mmol/L·min, p = 0.034 and 249.3 ± 25.4 vs. 353.6 ± 31.5 mmol/L·min, p = 0.012, respectively. The 400 mg dose further reduced the percentage increment of postprandial glucose (%PG) 31.4% ± 7.9% vs. 47.5% ± 8.6%, p = 0.010, glucose peak 7.9 ± 0.3 vs. 8.9 ± 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.025 and 2h-OGTT postprandial glucose (2hPG) 6.1 ± 0.3 vs. 6.7 ± 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.027. Glucose iAUC was not significantly different in the complex group, except for reductions in %PG 28.7% ± 8.2% vs. 43.4% ± 5.9%, p = 0.012 after 50 mg dose and 27.7% ± 5.4% vs. 47.3% ± 7.2%, p = 0.025 after 400 mg dose. The results suggest that Enzogenol® may have hypoglycaemic effects in healthy participants, especially those exhibiting monophasic shapes.

Therapeutic Potential of Flavonoids in Pain and Inflammation: Mechanisms of Action, Pre-Clinical and Clinical Data, and Pharmaceutical Development

Pathological pain can be initiated after inflammation and/or peripheral nerve injury. It is a consequence of the pathological functioning of the nervous system rather than only a symptom. In fact, pain is a significant social, health, and economic burden worldwide. Flavonoids are plant derivative compounds easily found in several fruits and vegetables and consumed in the daily food intake. Flavonoids vary in terms of classes, and while structurally unique, they share a basic structure formed by three rings, known as the flavan nucleus. Structural differences can be found in the pattern of substitution in one of these rings. The hydroxyl group (-OH) position in one of the rings determines the mechanisms of action of the flavonoids and reveals a complex multifunctional activity. Flavonoids have been widely used for their antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects along with safe preclinical and clinical profiles. In this review, we discuss the preclinical and clinical evidence on the analgesic and anti-inflammatory proprieties of flavonoids. We also focus on how the development of formulations containing flavonoids, along with the understanding of their structure-activity relationship, can be harnessed to identify novel flavonoid-based therapies to treat pathological pain and inflammation.

Effect of Pycnogenol on Blood Pressure: Findings From a PRISMA Compliant Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Studies

Results of previous clinical trials evaluating the effect of pycnogenol supplementation on blood pressure (BP) are controversial. Therefore, we aimed to assess the impact of pycnogenol on BP through a systematic review of literature and meta-analysis of available randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies (randomized clinical trials [RCTs]). Literature search included SCOPUS, PubMed-Medline, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases up to January 10, 2019 to identify RCTs investigating the impact of pycnogenol on BP. Two investigators independently extracted data on study characteristics, methods, and outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis is registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under number CRD42018112172. Overall, the impact of pycnogenol on BP was reported in 7 trials involving 626 participants. Meta-analysis did not suggest any significant improvement in systolic BP (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −0.028 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.182 to 0.127; P = .726; I2= 46%), diastolic BP (WMD: −0.144 mm Hg; 95% CI: −0.299 to 0.010; P = .067; I2= 0%), mean arterial pressure (WMD: −0.091 mm Hg; 95% CI: −0.246 to 0.063; P = .246; I2= 0%), and pulse pressure (WMD: −0.003 mm Hg; 95% CI: −0.151 to 0.158; P = .966; I2= 0%) following pycnogenol treatment. Results persisted in the leave-one-out sensitivity analysis. Therefore, the present meta-analysis does not suggest any significant effect of pycnogenol on BP.

Pharmacokinetic assessment of constituents of Boswellia serrata, pine bark extracts, curcumin in combination including methylsulfonylmethane in healthy volunteers

OBJECTIVES

Dietary supplements are increasingly used by people with osteoarthritis. Boswellia serrata extract, curcumin, pine bark extract and methylsulfonylmethane have been identified as having the largest effects for symptomatic relief in a systematic review. It is important to understand whether any pharmacokinetic interactions are among the major constituents of these supplements so as to provide information when considering the combination use of these supplements. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of the constituents alone and in combination.

METHODS

This study was a randomized, open-label, single-dose, four-treatment, four-period, crossover study with 1-week washout. The pharmacokinetics of the constituents of these supplements when dosed in combination with methylsulfonylmethane were compared to being administered alone. Plasma samples were obtained over 24 h from 16 healthy participants. Eight major constituents were analysed using a validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay.

KEY FINDINGS

The pharmacokinetics of each constituent was characterized, and there were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetic profiles of the constituents when administered as a combination, relative to the constituents when administered alone (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that interactions between the major constituents of this supplement combination are unlikely and therefore could be investigated to manage patients with osteoarthritis without significant concerns for possible pharmacokinetic interactions.

Therapeutic potential of natural compounds in inflammation and chronic venous insufficiency

The term varicose vein refers to the twisted and swollen vein visible under the skin surface which occurs most commonly in the leg. Epidemiological studies report a varying percentage of incidences from 2 to 56% in men and <1-60% in women. Venous insufficiency is most often caused by the damage to the valves and walls of the veins. The mechanism of varicose vein formation is complex. It is, however, based on hypotensive blood vessels, hypoxia, and other mechanisms associated with inflammation. This work describes mechanisms related to the formation and development of the varicose vein. It discusses risk factors, pathogenesis of chronic venous disease, markers of the epithelial and leukocyte activation, state of hypoxia and inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and oxidative stress. Additionally, this paper describes substances of plant origin used in the treatment of venous insufficiency. It also considers the structure of the molecules, their properties, and their mechanisms of action, the structure-activity relationship and chemical properties of flavonoids and other substances. The flavonoids include quercetin derivatives, micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Daflon), natural pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), and others such as triterpene saponine, extracts from Ruscus aculeatus and Centella asiatica, Ginkgo biloba extract, coumarin dereivatives that are used in chronic venous insufficiency. Flavonoids are natural substances found in plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and others. They are important to the circulatory system and critical to blood vessels and the blood flow. Additionally, they have antioxidant, antiinflammatory properties.

Effects of pycnogenol on ischemia/reperfusion-induced inflammatory and oxidative brain injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury results from the onset of re-circulation following a perfusion deterioration period in the tissues, resulting in more damage than that caused by perfusion deterioration. This study aimed to determine the effects of pycnogenol on I/R injury in rat brain tissues.

METHODS

Eighteen albino Wistar rats were divided into three groups: I/R injury (IR, n = 6) group; I/R injury + pycnogenol (IR + P, n = 6) group; and sham group (SG, n = 6). After 30 min of transient ischemia, 24 h of reperfusion was achieved in the IR and IR + P groups. Surgical dissection, except for transient ischemia, was performed in SG. Next, histopathological and biochemical investigations were performed on brain tissues. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPO) were analyzed as oxidative stress markers; IL-1β and TNF-α were analyzed as inflammatory stress markers in biochemical tests.

RESULTS

Histopathological examination revealed normal morphology in SG and diffuse cortex damage with edema, vasopathology, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the IR group. The IR + P group showed less cortex damage, edema, and vasopathology than the IR group. The MDA, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the IR group than those in the SG group. The values of same markers for the IR + P group were significantly lower than the IR group. The GSH and GPO levels were significantly decreased with IR damage, but PYC treatment showed significant improvement in the levels.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the administration of pycnogenol ameliorated brain damage after I/R injury by reducing oxidative and inflammatory damage in the rat brain.

Pycnogenol supplementation as an adjunct treatment for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Major depressive disorder is a serious mental disorder in which treatment with antidepressant medication is associated with incidence of adverse events, such as constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction (SDys). Escitalopram (ESC), an effective and safe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor with good tolerability, was used in this study. In this study, we investigated the prospective effect of Pycnogenol (PYC), an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilator agent, on ESC-induced SDys.

METHODS

This was a randomized, parallel, open-label study. Seventy-two outpatients of both genders with depression were randomized into two groups as follows: 37 patients from the ESC + PYC group took 50 mg of PYC per day for 4 months in ESC co-treatment, and 35 subjects from the ESC group took ESC only. Five patients dropped out and were excluded from the analysis. The participants were examined every month (visits 1-4).

RESULTS

ESC use led to improvement of depressive symptoms and severity scored by standardized psychiatric tests. PYC co-treatment resulted in attenuation of SDys beginning at 1 month of treatment and continuing for two consecutive months. Furthermore, an increase in heart rate in the PYC group was registered.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that PYC-mediated SDys attenuation is based on its ability to improve endothelial functions by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and anticoagulant action. We assume that the action of PYC on heart rate is in accordance with the aforementioned vasodilatory action of PYC and consequent baroreflex-mediated heart rate response. PYC co-treatment reduced ESC-induced SDys and elevated heart rate.

The impact of pycnogenol supplementation on plasma lipids in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

The effects of pycnogenol on plasma lipids are controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials were conducted to obtain a conclusive result in humans. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were systematically searched until March 2018, to explore the clinical trials that examined the effect of pycnogenol supplementation on lipid parameters among adult human. Methodological quality of the eligible studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. To estimate the effect size, changes in blood lipids were implemented. Results were pooled using a random effects model. Potential sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analysis. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials with 1,065 participants suggested a significant increase in plasma concentration of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; 3.27 mg/dL; 95% CI [0.19, 6.36]; p = 0.038). In contrast, plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC; -4.45 mg/dL, 95% CI [-11.24, 2.34]; p = 0.199), triacylglycerol (TAG; -3.64 mg/dL; 95% CI [-17.89, 10.61]; p = 0.616), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; -3.61 mg/dl; 95% CI [-8.76, 1.55]; p = 0.171) were not altered. Adjustment for confounding variables was poor in included studies. Also, these studies did not assess dietary lipid intake. The results indicate that pycnogenol supplementation improves levels of HDL-C; however, the changes in TC, TAG, and LDL-C were not clinically relevant. Since there are few phytochemicals that have a significant increasing effect on HDL-C levels, pycnogenol may have important role in prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Pycnogenol protects against diet-induced hepatic steatosis in apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice

Pycnogenol^R (PYC), a combination of active flavonoids derived from French maritime pine bark, is a natural antioxidant that has various pharmacological activities. Here, we investigated the beneficial effect of PYC on diet-induced hepatic steatosis. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-deficient male mice were administered PYC at oral doses of 30 or 100 mg·kg^-1·day^-1 for 2 wk in advance and were then fed a high-cholesterol and -fat diet (HCD) for 8 wk. Biochemical, immunohistochemical, and gene expression analyses were conducted to explore the effect of PYC on lipid metabolism in ApoE-deficient mice on a HCD. Short-term treatment with HCD in ApoE-deficient mice induced hepatic injuries, such as lipid metabolism disorder and hepatic histopathological changes. We found that PYC reduced body weight and the increase of serum lipids that had been caused by HCD. Supplementation of PYC significantly reduced lipid deposition in the liver, as shown by the lowered hepatic lipid content and histopathological lesions. We subsequently detected genes related to lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokines. The study showed that PYC markedly suppressed the expression of genes related to hepatic lipogenesis, fatty acid uptake, and lipid storage while increasing the lipolytic gene, which thus reduced hepatic lipid content. Furthermore, PYC mainly reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, which were resistant to the development of hepatic steatosis. These results demonstrate that PYC protects against the occurrence and development of hepatic steatosis and may provide a new prophylactic approach for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Centrifugal partition chromatography enables selective enrichment of trimeric and tetrameric proanthocyanidins for biomaterial development

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) find wide applications for human use including food, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals. The chemical complexity associated with PACs has triggered the development of various chromatographic techniques, with countercurrent separation (CCS) gaining in popularity. This study applied the recently developed DESIGNER (Depletion and Enrichment of Select Ingredients Generating Normalized Extract Resources) approach for the selective enrichment of trimeric and tetrameric PACs using centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC). This CPC method aims at developing PAC based biomaterials, particularly for their application in restoring and repairing dental hard tissue. A general separation scheme beginning with the depletion of polymeric PACs, followed by the removal of monomeric flavan-3-ols and a final enrichment step produced PAC trimer and tetramer enriched fractions. A successful application of this separation scheme is demonstrated for four polyphenol rich plant sources: grape seeds, pine bark, cinnamon bark, and cocoa seeds. Minor modifications to the generic DESIGNER CCS method were sufficient to accommodate the varying chemical complexities of the individual source materials. The step-wise enrichment of PAC trimers and tetramers was monitored using normal phase TLC and Diol-HPLC-UV analyses. CPC proved to be a reliable tool for the selective enrichment of medium size oligomeric PACs (OPACs). This method plays a key role in the development of dental biomaterials considering its reliability and reproducibility, as well as its scale-up capabilities for possible larger-scale manufacturing.

Pycnogenol Reduces Toll-Like Receptor 4 Signaling Pathway-Mediated Atherosclerosis Formation in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice

Pycnogenol (PYC) is an extract from French maritime pine bark. Its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to be beneficial for atherosclerosis. Here, we tested whether PYC could suppress high cholesterol and fat diet (HCD)-induced atherosclerosis formation in apolipoprotein E (apoE)-deficient mice. In our study, PYC suppressed oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced lipid accumulation in peritoneal macrophages. Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice were orally administered PYC or a control solvent for ten weeks, and these mice were fed a standard diet or high cholesterol and fat diet during the latter eight weeks. Pycnogenol markedly decreased the size of atherosclerotic lesions induced by high cholesterol and fat diet compared with the nontreated controls. In addition, TLR4 expression in aortic sinus was stimulated by high cholesterol and fat diet feeding and was significantly reduced by PYC. A mechanistic analysis indicated that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly increased expression of fatty acid binding protein (aP2) and macrophage scavenger receptor class A (SR-A), which were blocked by a JNK inhibitor. Furthermore, PYC inhibited the lipopolysaccharide-induced upregulation of aP2 and scavenger receptor class A via the JNK pathway. In conclusion, PYC administration effectively attenuates atherosclerosis through the TLR4-JNK pathway. Our results suggest that PYC could be a potential prophylaxis or treatment for atherosclerosis in humans.

The Ameliorative Effects of Pycnogenol® on Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats

Objectives

Pycnogenol^® (PYC^®), a standardized extract from the bark of Pinus maritima, consists of different phenolic compounds. PYC^® has shown to have protective effects on chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, cancer, and immune disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of PYC^® against the DNA damage and biochemical changes in blood, liver, and lung tissues of ischemia-reperfusion (IR)-induced Wistar albino rats.

Materials and Methods

A sham group, IR injury-induced group, and IR+PYC^® group were formed. Ischemia was induced and sustained for 45 min, then the ischemic liver was reperfused, which was sustained for a further 120 min at the end of this period. After anesthesia and before the IR inducement, 100 mg/kg PYC^® was given to the IR+PYC^® group through intraperitoneal injections. The total oxidant (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS), total thiol levels (TTL), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and biochemical parameters [myeloperoxidase (MPO), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)] in the rats were analyzed using spectrophotometric methods and DNA damage was assessed using single-cell gel electrophoresis.

Results

The levels of TOS, TTL, MPO, AOPP, ALT, AST, and LDH were significantly decreased in the IR+PYC^® group compared with the IR group (p<0.05). The levels of TAS were significantly increased in the IR+PYC^® group compared with the IR group (p<0.05). PYC^® reduced the DNA damage when compared with the IR group (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The present results suggest that PYC^® treatment might have a role in the prevention of IR-induced oxidative damage by decreasing DNA damage and increasing antioxidant status.

Assessment of Cytotoxicity Profiles of Different Phytochemicals: Comparison of Neutral Red and MTT Assays in Different Cells in Different Time Periods

Objectives

Phenolic compounds exhibit several health protective properties. Galangin, curcumin, pycnogenol, puerarin and ursolic acid are commonly used plant phenolics in folk medicine. The aim of our study was to evaluate the difference between neutral red uptake (NRU) and MTT assays using different plant phenolics (galangin, curcumin, pycnogenol, puerarin and ursolic acid) in healthy and cancer cells in different time periods.

Materials and Methods

In this study, the cytotoxic effects of these phenolic compounds were investigated by NRU and MTT assays in healthy (V79, Chinese hamster fibroblast cell line) and cancer [human cervix epithelial adenocarcinoma cell line Henrietta Lacks (HeLa) and human mammary carcinoma cell line (BT-474)] in 18, 24 and 48 h incubation periods.

Results

Our results demonstrated that galangin, curcumin, pycnogenol, puerarin and ursolic acid decreased cell viability of V79, HeLa and BT-474 cells in a dose-dependent manner in 18, 24 and 48 h incubation periods. However, the cell survival rate was much lower in 48 h incubation period. There was no difference between the results from NRU and MTT assays.

Conclusion

To decide which incubation period and which cytotoxicity study to be used, the cytotoxicity mechanism of the compound must be known.

A phytoestrogen supplement prevents the altered gene expression associated with pregnancy implantation induced by IL-1β in endometrial epithelial cells

Phytoestrogens stimulate expression of the uterine estrogen receptor and regulate uterine functions in reproductive tissues. However, comprehensive understanding of the beneficial impacts of phytoestrogens on uterine biology at the molecular level remains unexplored. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) expression is increased in the inflamed decidua and is associated with first trimester pregnancy loss. AglyMax-Sup has the same composition as that of the phytoestrogen supplement AglyMax but with added vitamins and other components. Expression of genes associated with implantation may be enhanced by AglyMax-Sup compared with AglyMax. We tested the hypothesis that AglyMax-Sup has greater effects on implantation compared with AglyMax, using RT-PCR and Western blotting in the endometrial epithelial cell line. Furthermore, we investigated the protective effect of AglyMax-Sup on IL-1βinduced changes in estrogen-responsive gene expression in endometrial epithelial cells. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the phytoestrogen supplement AglyMax-Sup with those of AglyMax on estrogen-responsive gene expression. AglyMax and AglyMax-Sup significantly (p<0.05) induced gene expression of glycodelin-A, HoxA10, IL-11, LIF, MEG-E8 and TGFβ1. AglyMax-Sup induced high levels of these genes compared with the levels induced by AglyMax. The enhanced expression of LIF, IL-11, integrin αV, and HOXA10 induced by AglyMax-Sup was abolished by the ER antagonist fulvestrant and the ERK inhibitor PD98059. Meanwhile, IL-1β inhibited progesterone plus estrogen-induced TGFβ1, glycodelin-A, HOXA10, and integrin αV expression. IL-1β-induced suppression of these expression was reversed by AglyMax-Sup. These results indicate that expression of genes associated with implantation may be increased by AglyMax-Sup compared with AglyMax. AglyMax-Sup might abrogate IL-1β-mediated changes that can affect embryo implantation via the MAPK pathway.

Effect of Pycnogenol® on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Methylphenidate (MPH), the first choice medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is associated with serious adverse effects like arrhythmia. Evidence on the association of ADHD with immune and oxidant-antioxidant imbalances offers potential for antioxidant and/or immunomodulatory nutritional supplements as ADHD therapy. One small randomised trial in ADHD suggests, despite various limitations, therapeutic benefit from Pycnogenol®, a herbal, polyphenol-rich extract.

METHODS

This phase III trial is a 10-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo and active treatment controlled multicentre trial with three parallel treatment arms to compare the effect of Pycnogenol® to MPH and placebo on the behaviour of 144 paediatric ADHD and attention-deficit disorder (ADD) patients. Evaluations of behaviour (measured by the ADHD-Rating Scale (primary endpoint) and the Social-emotional Questionnaire (SEQ)), immunity (plasma cytokine and antibody levels, white blood cell counts and faecal microbial composition), oxidative stress (erythrocyte glutathione, plasma lipid-soluble vitamins and malondialdehyde and urinary 8-OHdG levels, as well as antioxidant enzyme activity and gene expression), serum zinc and neuropeptide Y level, urinary catecholamines and physical complaints (Physical Complaints Questionnaire) will be performed in week 10 and compared to baseline. Acceptability evaluations will be based on adherence, dropouts and reports of adverse events. Dietary habits will be taken into account.

DISCUSSION

This trial takes into account comorbid behavioural and physical symptoms, as well as a broad range of innovative immune and oxidative biomarkers, expected to provide fundamental knowledge on ADHD aetiology and therapy. Research on microbiota in ADHD is novel. Moreover, the active control arm is rather unseen in research on nutritional supplements, but of great importance, as patients and parents are often concerned with the side effects of MPH.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT02700685 . Registered on 18 January 2016. EudraCT 2016-000215-32 . Registered on 4 October 2016.

A standardized bark extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol®) attenuated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease via Erk-sp1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A standardized bark extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol^®; PYC) used as an herbal medicine to treat various diseases in Europe and North America.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study evaluates the ability of PYC to inhibit chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-stimulated human airway epithelial cell line NCI-H292 and in a cigarette smoke (CS) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mouse model.

METHODS

To induce COPD, the mice intranasally received LPS on day 4 and were exposed to CS for 1h per day (total eight cigarettes per day) from days 1-7. The mice were administered PYC at a dose of 15mg/kg and 30mg/kg 1h before CS exposure.

RESULTS

In the CSE-stimulated NCI-H292 cells, PYC significantly inhibited Erk phosphorylation, sp1 expression, MUC5AC, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in a concentration-dependent manner, as evidenced by a reduction in their mRNA levels. Co-treatment with PYC and Erk inhibitors markedly reduced the levels inflammatory mediators compared to only PYC-treatment. In the COPD mice model, PYC decreased the inflammatory cell count and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid compared with COPD mice. PYC attenuated the recruitment of inflammatory cells in the airways and decreased the expression levels of Erk phosphorylation and sp1. PYC also inhibited the expression of myeloperoxidase and matrix metalloproteinases-9 in lung tissue.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that PYC inhibited the reduction in the inflammatory response in CSE-stimulated NCI-H292 cells and the COPD mouse model via the Erk-sp1 pathway. Therefore, we suggest that PYC has the potential to treat COPD.

Procyanidins Mitigate Osteoarthritis Pathogenesis by, at Least in Part, Suppressing Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Signaling

Procyanidins are a family of plant metabolites that have been suggested to mitigate osteoarthritis pathogenesis in mice. However, the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. This study aimed to determine whether procyanidins mitigate traumatic injury-induced osteoarthritis (OA) disease progression, and whether procyanidins exert a chondroprotective effect by, at least in part, suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor signaling. Procyanidins (extracts from pine bark), orally administered to mice subjected to surgery for destabilization of the medial meniscus, significantly slowed OA disease progression. Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that procyanidin treatment reduced expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and effectors in OA pathogenesis that are regulated by vascular endothelial growth factor. Procyanidin-suppressed vascular endothelial growth factor expression was correlated with reduced phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in human OA primary chondrocytes. Moreover, components of procyanidins, procyanidin B2 and procyanidin B3 exerted effects similar to those of total procyanidins in mitigating the OA-related gene expression profile in the primary culture of human OA chondrocytes in the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor. Together, these findings suggest procyanidins mitigate OA pathogenesis, which is mediated, at least in part, by suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor signaling.

Pycnogenol Ameliorates Asthmatic Airway Inflammation and Inhibits the Function of Goblet Cells

Pycnogenol^® (PYC) is utilized in the treatment of various diseases ranging from chronic inflammation to circulatory diseases, but its efficacy and functional mechanism in pediatric asthma continue to remain obscure. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and molecular mechanism of PYC on regulation of asthmatic airway inflammation. We found that PYC with tail intravenous injection of 50 mg/kg or intragastric administration of 100 mg/kg all reduced ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway injury. Pharmacokinetics of PYC was evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography assay, indicating that PYC was quickly absorbed into the blood after intragastric administration, and PYC metabolism was later improved gradually with increase of time after PYC administration. PYC has a higher bioavailability of 71.96%, and it was more easily absorbed by the body. PYC inhibited the number of total inflammatory cells and levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-9, and IL-13 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of OVA-induced mice. PYC inhibited IL-13 secretion from the Th2 cells, thereby causing a reduction in expression of the signaling molecules in JAK/STAT6 pathway in airway epithelial cells. STAT6 silence suppressed IL-13-increased acetylcholine level. STAT6 overexpression promoted expression of goblet cell metaplasia-associated molecules (FOXA3, SPDEF, and Muc5ac). PYC suppressed OVA-induced expression of FOXA3, SPDEF, and Muc5ac in lung. Our findings indicate that PYC has a higher bioavailability and it prevents emergence of OVA-induced airway injury and airway inflammation in mice by inhibiting IL-13/JAK/STAT6 pathway and blocking release of acetylcholine to reduce goblet cell metaplasia.

Antioxidant Phytochemicals for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases

Overproduction of oxidants (reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species) in the human body is responsible for the pathogenesis of some diseases. The scavenging of these oxidants is thought to be an effective measure to depress the level of oxidative stress of organisms. It has been reported that intake of vegetables and fruits is inversely associated with the risk of many chronic diseases, and antioxidant phytochemicals in vegetables and fruits are considered to be responsible for these health benefits. Antioxidant phytochemicals can be found in many foods and medicinal plants, and play an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. They often possess strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging abilities, as well as anti-inflammatory action, which are also the basis of other bioactivities and health benefits, such as anticancer, anti-aging, and protective action for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity and neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes recent progress on the health benefits of antioxidant phytochemicals, and discusses their potential mechanisms in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.

Inhibitory Effect of a French Maritime Pine Bark Extract-Based Nutritional Supplement on TNF-α-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells

Oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to endothelial dysfunction, contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The popularity of natural product supplements has increased in recent years, especially those with purported anti-inflammatory and/or antioxidant effects. The efficacy and mechanism of many of these products are not yet well understood. In this study, we tested the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of a supplement, HIPER Health Supplement (HIPER), on cytokine-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs). HIPER is a mixture of French maritime pine bark extract (PBE), honey, aloe vera, and papaya extract. Treatment for 24 hours with HIPER reduced TNF-α-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation that was associated with decreased NADPH oxidase 4 and increased superoxide dismutase-1 expression. HIPER inhibited TNF-α induced monocyte adhesion to HCAECs that was in keeping with decreased expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 and decreased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation. Further investigation of mechanism showed HIPER reduced TNF-α induced IκBα and p38 and MEK1/2 MAP kinases phosphorylation. Our findings show that HIPER has potent inhibitory effects on HCAECs inflammatory and oxidative stress responses that may protect against endothelial dysfunction that underlies early atherosclerotic lesion formation.

Activities of Tannins – from in Vitro Studies to Clinical Trials

Tannins are considered as valuable plant secondary metabolites providing many benefits for human health. In this review information was gathered about bioactivity in vitro and in vivo, as well as about conducted clinical trials. The literature research was based on ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Cochrane databases and presents a wide range of tested activities of tannins. The described clinical trials verify laboratory tests and show the effective health benefits taken from supplementation with tannins.