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Bava R, Castagna F, Lupia C, Poerio G, Liguori G, Lombardi R, Naturale MD, Bulotta RM, Biondi V, Passantino A, Britti D, Statti G, Palma E. Hive Products: Composition, Pharmacological Properties, and Therapeutic Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:646. [PMID: 38794216 PMCID: PMC11124102 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Beekeeping provides products with nutraceutical and pharmaceutical characteristics. These products are characterized by abundance of bioactive compounds. For different reasons, honey, royal jelly, propolis, venom, and pollen are beneficial to humans and animals and could be used as therapeutics. The pharmacological action of these products is related to many of their constituents. The main bioactive components of honey include oligosaccharides, methylglyoxal, royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), and phenolics compounds. Royal jelly contains jelleins, royalisin peptides, MRJPs, and derivatives of hydroxy-decenoic acid, particularly 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), which possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuromodulatory, metabolic syndrome-preventing, and anti-aging properties. Propolis has a plethora of activities that are referable to compounds such as caffeic acid phenethyl ester. Peptides found in bee venom include phospholipase A2, apamin, and melittin. In addition to being vitamin-rich, bee pollen also includes unsaturated fatty acids, sterols, and phenolics compounds that express antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the constituents of hive products are particular and different. All of these constituents have been investigated for their properties in numerous research studies. This review aims to provide a thorough screening of the bioactive chemicals found in honeybee products and their beneficial biological effects. The manuscript may provide impetus to the branch of unconventional medicine that goes by the name of apitherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giusi Poerio
- ATS Val Padana, Via dei Toscani, 46100 Mantova, Italy;
| | | | - Renato Lombardi
- IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), 71013 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Maria Diana Naturale
- Ministry of Health, Directorate General for Health Programming, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rosa Maria Bulotta
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Vito Biondi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Annamaria Passantino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Center for Pharmacological Research, Food Safety, High Tech and Health (IRC-FSH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Kwon EB, Kim YS, Kim B, Kim SG, Na SJ, Go Y, Choi HM, Lee HJ, Han SM, Choi JG. Korean Chestnut Honey Suppresses HSV-1 Infection by Regulating the ROS-NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1935. [PMID: 38001788 PMCID: PMC10669648 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is double-stranded DNA virus that belongs to the Orthoherpesviridae family. It causes serious neurological diseases of the central nervous system, such as encephalitis. The current U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs for preventing HSV-1 infection include acyclovir (ACV) and valacyclovir; however, their long-term use causes severe side effects and often results in the emergence of drug-resistant strains. Therefore, it is important to discover new antiviral agents that are safe and effective against HSV-1 infection. Korean chestnut honey (KCH) has various pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammation effects; however, antiviral effects against HSV-1 have not yet been reported. Therefore, we determined the antiviral activity and mechanism of action of KCH after HSV-1 infection on the cellular level. KCH inhibited the HSV-1 infection of host cells through binding and virucidal steps. KCH decreased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium (Ca2+) following HSV-1 infection and suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-кB) activity. Furthermore, we found that KCH inhibited the expression of the nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome during HSV-1 infection. Taken together, the antiviral effects of KCH occur through multiple targets, including the inhibition of viral replication and the ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Our findings suggest that KCH has potential for the treatment of HSV-1 infection and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Bin Kwon
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Soo Kim
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Buyun Kim
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Gun Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Joon Na
- Special Forest Resources Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Suwon 16631, Republic of Korea
| | - Younghoon Go
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Min Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Mi Han
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang-Gi Choi
- Korean Medicine Application Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daegu 41062, Republic of Korea
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Law SK, Au DCT, Chow WYL, Poon CH, Chow KKC, Zhao Z, Chan SW, Wang Y, Li S. Behavioral Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation of Using Western and Chinese Medicines or Herbal Products among the Public in Response to COVID-19 in Hong Kong: A Cross-Sectional Study. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:5637720. [PMID: 37680699 PMCID: PMC10482558 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5637720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic occurred in Hong Kong for more than two years. This article conducted a cross-sectional study for participants to investigate the behavioral prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of using Western medicines or herbal products for COVID-19 in Hong Kong. A questionnaire was designed and performed over 2 weeks from 1 May to 15 May 2022. It consisted of five parts with around 20 questions conducted including sociodemographic information, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation of COVID-19, and also the sources of information. The pattern usage of Chinese or Western medicines for COVID-19 was studied after data collection. 318 people participated in this survey, and only 311 were qualified. The sociodemographic information, e.g., personal educational level, and behavior for the prevention of COVID-19, which included wearing masks (98.7%), using alcohol hand sanitizer (83.0%), washing hands frequently (82.4%), avoiding crowds (53.1%), and staying home more often (50.6%). Western medicines, such as antipyretic drugs, antitussive drugs, and pain reliever drugs, whilst Chinese medicines, such as Lianhua Qingwen Jiaonang, Huoxiang Zhengqi San or Wan, and Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa, were most commonly used in the treatment and rehabilitation periods of COVID-19. Herbal products, including lemon, honey, ginger, and herbal tea, were used as a daily diet to fight against COVID-19. Based on the result findings, Chinese medicines or herbal products were used during the COVID-19 pandemic, but most of the participants used an unknown Chinese medicine practitioner's prescription and self-administered Chinese medicine. The pattern of Chinese medicines and Western medicines' usage in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of COVID-19 was also investigated; this showed a statistically significant association between the variables according to gender, age, and Chinese or Western medicines for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siu Kan Law
- Faculty of Science and Technology, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Tsing Yi, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Dawn Ching Tung Au
- Faculty of Science and Technology, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Tsing Yi, New Territories, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Pharmacists Association, San Po Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wesley Yeuk Lung Chow
- Faculty of Science and Technology, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Tsing Yi, New Territories, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Pharmacists Association, San Po Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chung Hang Poon
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kylie Ka Ching Chow
- Faculty of Science and Technology, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Tsing Yi, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Zhongzhen Zhao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist Univesity, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Shun Wan Chan
- Faculty of Science and Technology, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Tsing Yi, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Yanping Wang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Saimei Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Suhandy D, Al Riza DF, Yulia M, Kusumiyati K. Non-Targeted Detection and Quantification of Food Adulteration of High-Quality Stingless Bee Honey (SBH) via a Portable LED-Based Fluorescence Spectroscopy. Foods 2023; 12:3067. [PMID: 37628066 PMCID: PMC10452998 DOI: 10.3390/foods12163067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Stingless bee honey (SBH) is rich in phenolic compounds and available in limited quantities. Authentication of SBH is important to protect SBH from adulteration and retain the reputation and sustainability of SBH production. In this research, we use portable LED-based fluorescence spectroscopy to generate and measure the fluorescence intensity of pure SBH and adulterated samples. The spectrometer is equipped with four UV-LED lamps (peaking at 365 nm) as an excitation source. Heterotrigona itama, a popular SBH, was used as a sample. 100 samples of pure SBH and 240 samples of adulterated SBH (levels of adulteration ranging from 10 to 60%) were prepared. Fluorescence spectral acquisition was measured for both the pure and adulterated SBH samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated that a clear separation between the pure and adulterated SBH samples could be established from the first two principal components (PCs). A supervised classification based on soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA) achieved an excellent classification result with 100% accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and precision. Principal component regression (PCR) was superior to partial least squares regression (PLSR) and multiple linear regression (MLR) methods, with a coefficient of determination in prediction (R2p) = 0.9627, root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) = 4.1579%, ratio prediction to deviation (RPD) = 5.36, and range error ratio (RER) = 14.81. The LOD and LOQ obtained were higher compared to several previous studies. However, most predicted samples were very close to the regression line, which indicates that the developed PLSR, PCR, and MLR models could be used to detect HFCS adulteration of pure SBH samples. These results showed the proposed portable LED-based fluorescence spectroscopy has a high potential to detect and quantify food adulteration in SBH, with the additional advantages of being an accurate, affordable, and fast measurement with minimum sample preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diding Suhandy
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Lampung, Jl. Soemantri Brojonegoro No. 1, Bandar Lampung 35145, Indonesia
| | - Dimas Firmanda Al Riza
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, University of Brawijaya, Jl. Veteran, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Meinilwita Yulia
- Department of Agricultural Technology, Lampung State Polytechnic, Jl. Soekarno Hatta No. 10, Bandar Lampung 35141, Indonesia;
| | - Kusumiyati Kusumiyati
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang 45363, Indonesia;
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Azam MS, Islam MN, Wahiduzzaman M, Alam M, Dhrubo AAK. Antiviral foods in the battle against viral infections: Understanding the molecular mechanism. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:4444-4459. [PMID: 37576049 PMCID: PMC10420791 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses produce a variety of illnesses, which may also cause acute respiratory syndrome. All viral infections, including COVID-19, are associated with the strength of the immune system. Till now, traditional medicine or vaccines for most viral diseases have not been effective. Antiviral and immune-boosting diets may provide defense against viral diseases by lowering the risk of infection and assisting rapid recovery. The purpose of this review was to gather, analyze, and present data based on scientific evidence in order to provide an overview of the mechanistic insights of antiviral bioactive metabolites. We have covered a wide range of food with antiviral properties in this review, along with their potential mechanism of action against viral infections. Additionally, the opportunities and challenges of using antiviral food have been critically reviewed. Bioactive plant compounds, not only help in maintaining the body's normal physiological mechanism and good health but are also essential for improving the body's immunity and therefore can be effective against viral diseases. These agents fight viral diseases either by incorporating the body's defense mechanism or by enhancing the cell's immune system. Regular intake of antiviral foods may prevent future pandemic and consumption of these antiviral agents with traditional medicine may reduce the severity of viral diseases. Therefore, the synergistic effect of antiviral foods and medication needs to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Shofiul Azam
- Department of Food EngineeringDhaka University of Engineering & TechnologyGazipurBangladesh
| | - Md. Nahidul Islam
- Department of Agro‐ProcessingBangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural UniversityGazipurBangladesh
- Institute of Food Safety and ProcessingBangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural UniversityGazipurBangladesh
| | - Md. Wahiduzzaman
- Bio‐Med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS‐MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and HealthUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Mahabub Alam
- Department of Food Engineering and Tea TechnologyShahjalal University of Science and TechnologySylhetBangladesh
| | - Akib Atique Khan Dhrubo
- Department of Chemical EngineeringDhaka University of Engineering & TechnologyGazipurBangladesh
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Biswas A, Naresh KS, Jaygadkar SS, Chaudhari SR. Enabling honey quality and authenticity with NMR and LC-IRMS based platform. Food Chem 2023; 416:135825. [PMID: 36924528 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.135825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Honey has been known for economically motivated adulteration around the world, because of its high demand and short supply. As consequence increasing honey production using the deliberate addition of sugar syrups while claiming a fictitious origin and diversifying it to increase its value. Generally, honey testing is supervised by a set of guidelines and quality parameters to ensure its quality and authenticity. As per the many regulatory bodies, current honey scams have been challenging to identify with conventional methods, so quality control labs require sophisticated technology. With these paradigm shifts, the aim of the present review is focused on the authenticity of honey through two important cutting-edge methods viz LC-IRMS and NMR. The LC-IRMS aids in the detection of added C3 and C4 sugars. Whereas NMR has provided a potent solution by allowing the classification of botanical varieties and geographical origin along with the quantification of a set of quality parameters in a single experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Biswas
- Department of Plantation Products, Spice and Flavor Technology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, Karnataka 570020, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - K S Naresh
- Department of Plantation Products, Spice and Flavor Technology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, Karnataka 570020, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | | | - Sachin R Chaudhari
- Department of Plantation Products, Spice and Flavor Technology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, Karnataka 570020, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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Cárdenas-Escudero J, Galán-Madruga D, Cáceres JO. FTIR-ATR detection method for emerging C3-plants-derivated adulterants in honey: Beet, dates, and carob syrups. Talanta 2023; 265:124768. [PMID: 37331041 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.124768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
The European Union Publications Office has recently presented a report on the European Union's coordinated action with the Joint Research Centre to determine certain fraudulent practices in the honey sector, in which it has been indicated that 74% of the samples analyzed, imported from China, and 93% of the samples analyzed, imported from Turkey, the two largest honey producers worldwide, presented at least one indicator of exogenous sugar or suspicion of being adulterated. This situation has revealed the critical state of the problem of honey adulteration worldwide and the need to develop analytical techniques for its detection. Even though the adulteration of honey is carried out in a general way with sweetened syrups derived from C4 plants, recent studies have indicated the emerging use of syrups derived from C3 plants for the adulteration of honey. This kind of adulteration makes it impossible to analyze its detection using official analysis techniques. In this work, we have developed a fast, simple, and economical method based on the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique, with attenuated total reflectance, for the qualitative, quantitative, and simultaneous determination of beetroot, date, and carob syrups, derived from of C3 plants; whose available bibliography is very scarce and analytically not very conclusive for its use by the authorities. The proposed method has been based on the establishment of the spectral differences between honey and the mentioned syrups at eight different points in the spectral region between 1200 and 900 cm-1 of the mid-infrared, characteristic of the vibrational modes of carbohydrates in honey, which allows the pre-discrimination of the presence or absence of the syrups studied, and their subsequent quantification, with precision levels lower than 2.0% of the relative standard deviation and relative errors lower than 2.0% (m/m).
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cárdenas-Escudero
- Laser Chemistry Research Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza de Ciencias 1, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Analytical Chemistry Department, FCNET, University of Panama, Ciudad Universitaria, Estafeta Universitaria, 3366, Panama 4, Panama City, Panama
| | - D Galán-Madruga
- National Centre for Environmental Health. Carlos III Health Institute, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo km 2.2, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - J O Cáceres
- Laser Chemistry Research Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza de Ciencias 1, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Bafandeh S, Khodadadi E, Ganbarov K, Asgharzadeh M, Köse Ş, Samadi Kafil H. Natural Products as a Potential Source of Promising Therapeutics for COVID-19 and Viral Diseases. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:5525165. [PMID: 37096202 PMCID: PMC10122587 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5525165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Background A global pandemic has recently been observed due to the new coronavirus disease, caused by SARS-CoV-2. Since there are currently no antiviral medicines to combat the highly contagious and lethal COVID-19 infection, identifying natural sources that can either be viricidal or boost the immune system and aid in the fight against the disease can be an essential therapeutic support. Methods This review was conducted based on published papers related to the herbal therapy of COVID-19 by search on databases including PubMed and Scopus with herbal, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and therapy keywords. Results To combat this condition, people may benefit from the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants, such as increasing their immune system or providing an antiviral impact. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 infection death rates can be reduced. Various traditional medicinal plants and their bioactive components, such as COVID-19, are summarized in this article to assist in gathering and debating techniques for combating microbial diseases in general and boosting our immune system in particular. Conclusion The immune system benefits from natural products and many of these play a role in activating antibody creation, maturation of immune cells, and stimulation of innate and adaptive immune responses. The lack of particular antivirals for SARS-CoV-2 means that apitherapy might be a viable option for reducing the hazards associated with COVID-19 in the absence of specific antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Bafandeh
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ehsaneh Khodadadi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Khudaverdi Ganbarov
- Research Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Baku State University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Mohammad Asgharzadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Şükran Köse
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Covaci B, Brejea R, Covaci M. Sweeteners World Trade and Behaviour in the Pandemic. Evidence from Honey Remedies Nexus Mountain Apis Mellifera Product. SUGAR TECH : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SUGAR CROPS & RELATED INDUSTRIES 2023; 25:1-12. [PMID: 36789108 PMCID: PMC9910233 DOI: 10.1007/s12355-023-01243-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The paper proposes a construct for sweeteners (SMH-sugar, molasses, and honey class) consumer behavior, focusing on the mountain Apis Mellifera healing effects and its market. The paper develops three research dimensions, respectively, the importance of the healing properties of SMH products, the consumer behavior of SMH clients, and the world trade of SMH. Apis Mellifera product is considered one of the primary natural prevention and treatment for COVID-19. Presented empirical and experimental studies, respectively, qualitative analysis for Apis Mellifera product, reveal that honey, especially dark honey, presents healing effects. People understand the healing effects of honey in the COVID-19 context, and consequently, honey consumption increased. The forecasting model of the export value, for the 2021-2040 period, takes into consideration the descriptive statistics analysis based on 2001-2020 data. The paper contains relevant data about the SMH class related to statistics of the World Bank, United Nations, Eurostat, International Trade Center, and other sources presented in the paper. Data have been processed into SPSS and Excel, according to ANOVA (descriptive statistics with a focus on frequency analysis) and forecasting analysis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12355-023-01243-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brîndușa Covaci
- CBM International University and Centre for Mountain Economy, Honolulu, USA
| | | | - Mihai Covaci
- Hyperion University and CBM International University, 1110 Nuuanu Avenue, PMB 1136, Honolulu, HI 96817 USA
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10
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Chemical Characterization of Honey and Its Effect (Alone as well as with Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles) on Microbial Pathogens' and Human Cancer Cell Lines' Growth. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030684. [PMID: 36771391 PMCID: PMC9919140 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The antibacterial, anticancer, and wound-healing effects of honey can vary according to the type, geographical region, honey bee species, and source of the flowers. Nanotechnology is an innovative and emerging field of science with an enormous potential role in medical, cosmetics, and industrial usages globally. Metal nanoparticles that derived from silver and range between 1 nm and 100 nm in size are called silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Much advanced research AgNPs has been conducted due to their potential antibacterial and anticancer activity, chemical stability, and ease of synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to explore the physicochemical properties of honey and the potential to use forest honey to synthesize AgNPs as well as to appraise the nanoparticles' antimicrobial and anticancer effects. Here, we used three different percentages of forest honey (20%, 40%, and 80%) as biogenic mediators to synthesize AgNPs at room temperature. The development of AgNPs was confirmed by color change (to the naked eye) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy studies, respectively. The absorbance peak obtained between 464 to 4720 nm validated both the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band and the formation of AgNPs. Regarding the sugar profile, the contents of maltose and glucose were lower than the content of fructose. In addition, the results showed that the SPR band of AgNPs increased as the percentage of forest honey increased due to the elevation of the concentration of the bio-reducing agent. A bacterial growth kinetic assay indicated the strong antibacterial efficacy of honey with silver nanoparticles against each tested bacterial strain. Honey with nanotherapy was the most effective against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colon cancer (HCT 116) cells, with IC50s of 23.9 and 27.4 µg/mL, respectively, while being less effective against breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), with an IC50 of 32.5 µg/mL.
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Patouna A, Vardakas P, Skaperda Z, Spandidos DA, Kouretas D. Evaluation of the antioxidant potency of Greek honey from the Taygetos and Pindos mountains using a combination of cellular and molecular methods. Mol Med Rep 2023; 27:54. [PMID: 36660937 PMCID: PMC9879079 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2023.12941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey is a complex mixture, containing ~180 compounds, produced by the Apis melifera bees, with promising antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, the mechanisms through which honey exerts its effects remain under investigation. Plant antioxidants are found in honey and other bee products exhibiting a high bioactivity and molecular diversity. The aim of the present study was to estimate the antioxidant capacity of honey collected from areas in Greece by small‑scale producers by i) using in vitro cell free assays; and ii) by investigating the effects of honey varieties on the redox status of a liver cancer cell line (HepG2) using non‑cytotoxic concentrations. The findings of the present study will allow for the identification of Greek honeys with promising antioxidant capacity. For this purpose, six types of honey with various floral origins were examined in cell‑free assays followed by cell‑based techniques using flow cytometric analysis and redox biomarker level determination in order to evaluate the potential alterations in the intracellular redox system. The results indicated various mechanisms of action that are dependent on the honey type, concentration dependency and high antioxidant capacity. The extended findings from the literature confirm the ability of raw honey to influence the redox status of HepG2 cells. Nevertheless additional investigations are required to elucidate their mechanisms of action in cell line models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Patouna
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Periklis Vardakas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Zoi Skaperda
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Demetrios Kouretas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece,Correspondence to: Professor Demetrios Kouretas, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece, E-mail:
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12
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Khoshandam A, Hedayatian A, Mollazadeh A, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Propolis and its constituents against cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and dyslipidemia: A comprehensive review. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 26:853-871. [PMID: 37427329 PMCID: PMC10329244 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.67793.14835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are some of the major causes of death worldwide. The modern lifestyle elevates the risk of CVDs. CVDs have several risk factors such as obesity, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Using herbal and natural products plays a pivotal role in the treatment of different diseases such as CVDs, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Propolis, a natural resinous mixture, is made by honey bees. Its main components are phenolics and terpenoid compounds such as caffeic acid phenethyl ester, chrysin, and quercetin. In this review, multiple studies regarding the pharmacological impacts of propolis and its constituents with their related mechanisms of action against mentioned CVD risk factors have been discussed in detail. Here, we used electronic databases or search engines such as Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar without time limitations. The primary components of propolis are phenolics and terpenoid compounds such as caffeic acid phenethyl ester, chrysin and quercetin. Propolis and its constituents have been found to exhibit anti-obesity, anti-hypertension, anti-dyslipidemic, anti-atherosclerosis, and anti-diabetic effects. The vast majority of studies discussed in this review demonstrate that propolis and its constituents could have therapeutic effects against mentioned CVD risk factors via several mechanisms such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, reducing adipogenesis, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory effect, inhibition of the ACE, increasing insulin secretion, NO level, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Khoshandam
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | | | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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13
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Dofuor AK, Quartey NKA, Osabutey AF, Boateng BO, Lutuf H, Osei JHN, Ayivi-Tosuh SM, Aiduenu AF, Ekloh W, Loh SK, Opoku MJ, Aidoo OF. The Global Impact of COVID-19: Historical Development, Molecular Characterization, Drug Discovery and Future Directions. CLINICAL PATHOLOGY (THOUSAND OAKS, VENTURA COUNTY, CALIF.) 2023; 16:2632010X231218075. [PMID: 38144436 PMCID: PMC10748929 DOI: 10.1177/2632010x231218075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
In December 2019, an outbreak of a respiratory disease called the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a new coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) began in Wuhan, China. The SARS-CoV-2, an encapsulated positive-stranded RNA virus, spread worldwide with disastrous consequences for people's health, economies, and quality of life. The disease has had far-reaching impacts on society, including economic disruption, school closures, and increased stress and anxiety. It has also highlighted disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected by the SARS-CoV-2. The symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe. There is presently no effective cure. Nevertheless, significant progress has been made in developing COVID-19 vaccine for different therapeutic targets. For instance, scientists developed multifold vaccine candidates shortly after the COVID-19 outbreak after Pfizer and AstraZeneca discovered the initial COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines reduce disease spread, severity, and mortality. The addition of rapid diagnostics to microscopy for COVID-19 diagnosis has proven crucial. Our review provides a thorough overview of the historical development of COVID-19 and molecular and biochemical characterization of the SARS-CoV-2. We highlight the potential contributions from insect and plant sources as anti-SARS-CoV-2 and present directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aboagye Kwarteng Dofuor
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Naa Kwarley-Aba Quartey
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Belinda Obenewa Boateng
- Coconut Research Program, Oil Palm Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana
| | - Hanif Lutuf
- Crop Protection Division, Oil Palm Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Kade, Ghana
| | - Joseph Harold Nyarko Osei
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Selina Mawunyo Ayivi-Tosuh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Albert Fynn Aiduenu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - William Ekloh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Seyram Kofi Loh
- Department of Built Environment, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Maxwell Jnr Opoku
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Owusu Fordjour Aidoo
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
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14
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COVID-19: Reducing the risk via diet and lifestyle. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 21:1-16. [PMID: 36333177 PMCID: PMC9550279 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This review shows that relatively simple changes to diet and lifestyle can significantly, and rapidly, reduce the risks associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in terms of infection risk, severity of disease, and even disease-related mortality. A wide range of interventions including regular exercise, adequate sleep, plant-based diets, maintenance of healthy weight, dietary supplementation, and time in nature have each been shown to have beneficial effects for supporting more positive health outcomes with COVID-19, in addition to promoting better overall health. This paper brings together literature from these areas and presents the argument that non-pharmaceutical approaches should not be overlooked in our response to COVID-19. It is noted that, in several cases, interventions discussed result in risk reductions equivalent to, or even greater than, those associated with currently available vaccines. Where the balance of evidence suggests benefits, and the risk is minimal to none, it is suggested that communicating the power of individual actions to the public becomes morally imperative. Further, many lives could be saved, and many harms from the vaccine mandates avoided, if we were willing to embrace this lifestyle-centred approach in our efforts to deal with COVID-19.
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15
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Sinha S, Sehgal A, Ray S, Sehgal R. Benefits of Manuka Honey in the Management of Infectious Diseases: Recent Advances and Prospects. Mini Rev Med Chem 2023; 23:1928-1941. [PMID: 37282661 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230605120717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The benefits of honey have been recognized since ancient times for treating numerous diseases. However, in today's modern era, the use of traditional remedies has been rapidly diminishing due to the complexities of modern lifestyles. While antibiotics are commonly used and effective in treating pathogenic infections, their inappropriate use can lead to the development of resistance among microorganisms, resulting in their widespread prevalence. Therefore, new approaches are constantly required to combat drug-resistant microorganisms, and one practical and useful approach is the use of drug combination treatments. Manuka honey, derived from the manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) found exclusively in New Zealand, has garnered significant attention for its biological potential, particularly due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Moreover, when combined with antibiotics, it has demonstrated the ability to enhance their effectiveness. In this review, we delve into the chemical markers of manuka honey that are currently known, as well as detail the impact of manuka honey on the management of infectious diseases up to the present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Sinha
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Alka Sehgal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GMCH, Chandigarh, 160030, India
| | - Sudip Ray
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
- New Zealand Institute for Minerals to Materials Research, Greymouth, 7805, New Zealand
| | - Rakesh Sehgal
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
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16
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Sánchez-Martín V, Haza AI, Iriondo-DeHond A, del Castillo MD, Hospital XF, Fernández M, Hierro E, Morales P. Protective Effect of Thyme and Chestnut Honeys Enriched with Bee Products against Benzo(a)pyrene-Induced DNA Damage. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16969. [PMID: 36554850 PMCID: PMC9779538 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to validate the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and preventive potential against benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)-induced DNA damage of nine samples of thyme and chestnut honeys enriched with bee products (royal jelly and propolis, 2-10%). Cell viability was determined by the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay (0-250 mg/mL) to select nontoxic concentrations, and DNA damage (0.1-10 μg/mL) was evaluated by the alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis or comet assay. Treatment with honey samples or royal jelly and propolis did not affect the viability of HepG2 cells up to 100 and 50 mg/mL, respectively. Treatment with 100 μM BaP significantly increased (p ≤ 0.001) the levels of the DNA strand breaks. None of the tested concentrations (0.1-10 μg/mL) of the honey samples (thyme and chestnut), royal jelly, and propolis caused DNA damage per se. All tested samples at all the concentrations used decreased the genotoxic effect of BaP. In addition, all mixtures of thyme or chestnut honeys with royal jelly or propolis showed a greater protective effect against BaP than the samples alone, being the thyme and chestnut honey samples enriched with 10% royal jelly and 10% propolis the most effective (70.4% and 69.4%, respectively). The observed protective effect may be associated with the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of the studied samples. In conclusion, the thyme and chestnut honey samples enriched with bee products present potential as natural chemoprotective agents against the chemical carcinogen BaP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Sánchez-Martín
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I. Haza
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaia Iriondo-DeHond
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Dolores del Castillo
- Food Bioscience Group, Department of Bioactivity and Food Analysis, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL) (CSIC-UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavier F. Hospital
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuela Fernández
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Hierro
- Departamento de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Farmacia Galénica y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Morales
- Departamento de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Sección Departamental de Nutrición y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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17
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Chavda VP, Sonak SS, Munshi NK, Dhamade PN. Pseudoscience and fraudulent products for COVID-19 management. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:62887-62912. [PMID: 35836045 PMCID: PMC9282830 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21967-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
As of now, the COVID-19 pandemic has become uncontrolled and is spreading widely throughout the world. Additionally, new variants of the mutated viral variants have been found in some countries that are more dangerous than the original strain. Even vaccines cannot produce complete protective immunity against the newer strains of SARS-CoV-2. Due to such a dreadful situation, lots of fear and depression have been created among the public. People are looking for the treatment of the disease at any cost and there is a race in the market to provide treatment and make money, whether it is effective or not! In such a condition, many fraud products, remedies, and myths have come into the market, which is falsely claimed to be effective for the disease and can harm the patients. Hence, FDA has banned such products and remedies. In this review, we have compiled all such fraudulent and pseudosciences identified for COVID-19. Currently, in the pandemic time, health agencies are approving the repurposed medicines based on the small-scale clinical data for emergency uses that become ineffective (most of the cases) after large randomized clinical studies. Proper vigilance strategies need to be defined by the regulatory agencies of the nation and routine awareness programs shall be arranged for educating the people and healthcare workers on routine updates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek P Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India.
| | - Shreya S Sonak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth's Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune, 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nafesa K Munshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth's Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune, 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pooja N Dhamade
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth's Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune, 411038, Maharashtra, India
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18
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Hassoun A, Harastani R, Jagtap S, Trollman H, Garcia-Garcia G, Awad NMH, Zannou O, Galanakis CM, Goksen G, Nayik GA, Riaz A, Maqsood S. Truths and myths about superfoods in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:585-602. [PMID: 35930325 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2106939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, during the current COVID-19 pandemic, consumers increasingly seek foods that not only fulfill the basic need (i.e., satisfying hunger) but also enhance human health and well-being. As a result, more attention has been given to some kinds of foods, termed "superfoods," making big claims about their richness in valuable nutrients and bioactive compounds as well as their capability to prevent illness, reinforcing the human immune system, and improve overall health.This review is an attempt to uncover truths and myths about superfoods by giving examples of the most popular foods (e.g., berries, pomegranates, watermelon, olive, green tea, several seeds and nuts, honey, salmon, and camel milk, among many others) that are commonly reported as having unique nutritional, nutraceutical, and functional characteristics.While superfoods have become a popular buzzword in blog articles and social media posts, scientific publications are still relatively marginal. The reviewed findings show that COVID-19 has become a significant driver for superfoods consumption. Food Industry 4.0 innovations have revolutionized many sectors of food technologies, including the manufacturing of functional foods, offering new opportunities to improve the sensory and nutritional quality of such foods. Although many food products have been considered superfoods and intensively sought by consumers, scientific evidence for their beneficial effectiveness and their "superpower" are yet to be provided. Therefore, more research and collaboration between researchers, industry, consumers, and policymakers are still needed to differentiate facts from marketing gimmicks and promote human health and nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdo Hassoun
- Sustainable AgriFoodtch Innovation & Research (SAFIR), Arras, France
- Syrian Academic Expertise (SAE), Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Rania Harastani
- Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Sandeep Jagtap
- Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Centre, School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK
| | - Hana Trollman
- Department of Work, Employment, Management and Organisations, School of Business, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Guillermo Garcia-Garcia
- Department of Agrifood System Economics, Centre 'Camino de Purchil', Institute of Agricultural and Fisheries Research and Training (IFAPA), Granada, Spain
| | - Nour M H Awad
- Faculty of Engineering, Food Engineering Department, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Oscar Zannou
- Faculty of Engineering, Food Engineering Department, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Charis M Galanakis
- Department of Research & Innovation, Galanakis Laboratories, Chania, Greece
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
- Food Waste Recovery Group, ISEKI Food Association, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gulden Goksen
- Department of Food Technology, Vocational School of Technical Sciences at Mersin Tarsus Organized Industrial Zone, Tarsus University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Gulzar Ahmad Nayik
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Government Degree College, Shopian, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Asad Riaz
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sajid Maqsood
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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19
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Honey as an Adjuvant in the Treatment of COVID-19 Infection: A Review. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12157800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since ancestor times, honey has been used to promote human health due to its medicinal, and nutritious properties, mainly due to bioactive compounds present, such as phenolic compounds. The emergence of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, led to the pursuit of solutions for the treatment of symptoms and/or disease. Honey has proven to be effective against viral infections, principally due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that attenuate oxidative damage induced by pathogens, and by improving the immune system. Therefore, the aim of this review is to overview the abilities of honey to attenuate different COVID-19 symptoms, highlighting the mechanisms associated with these actions and relating the with the different bioactive compounds present. A brief, detailed approach to SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of action is first overviewed to allow readers a deep understanding. Additionally, the compounds and beneficial properties of honey, and its previously application in other similar diseases, are detailed in depth. Despite the already reported efficacy of honey against different viruses and their complications, further studies are urgently needed to explain the molecular mechanisms of activity against COVID-19 and, most importantly, clinical trials enrolling COVID-19 patients.
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El-Malah A, Ibrahim TA, Attia H, Eid BG, Bagher AM, Binmahfouz LS, Sokkar NM. Assessment of commitment to healthy daily habits and diets, preventive measures, and beliefs about natural products utilization during COVID-19 pandemic in certain population in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2022; 20:2700. [PMID: 36733518 PMCID: PMC9851831 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2022.3.2700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this research is to assess the commitment of participants in Saudi Arabia and Egypt towards healthy daily habits, preventive measures, healthy food habits, and beliefs about natural products as an immunostimulants during COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in Saudi Arabia (mainly Riyadh and Jeddah) and Egypt (mainly Cairo). The questionnaire instrument was created based on an extensive literature review on the COVID-19 pandemic, including its spreading and transmission methods, preventive measures, healthy lifestyle, and diets that increase human immunity against viral infections and the use of natural products and drinks. The questionnaire was created by Microsoft 365® office forms, participants were invited through emails and other social media. The questionnaire includes a demographic section (gender, nationality, residency country, city, age, marital status, educational level, employment status, chronic disease history, under anxiety or stress, have a temper or irritable person, were infected/currently infected and in contact to COVID-19 patient) and (23) questions arranged under five domains; Domain I daily habits (4), Domain II keeping preventive measures (4), Domain III healthy eating habits (9), Domain IV for participants currently or previously infected, or in contact with a patient (4) Domain V for assessment of participants' beliefs towards the use of natural products to elevate immunity during COVID-19 pandemic (2), beside 4 choice questions (stimulant drinks, natural drinks, natural products, and zinc-rich food). SPSS® was used to analyze the results using Student' t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD tests. Result 510 individuals with various demographic characteristics participated in the study. This study revealed that the participants belief in healthy foods, natural drinks (mainly ginger, lemon, and cinnamon), natural products (mainly honey, olive oil, and black seed), healthy habits, and preventive measures as sanitizers, social distance, and exercise. Only 13% of all participants were infected with COVID-19, although 31% of them were in contact with COVID -19 patients, about 93% were under stress, and 22% were with chronic diseases. Participants who are married, not in contact with patients and not previously infected by COVID-19 are more adhered to preventive measures while those previously or currently infected are more committed to healthy lifestyle and diet habits. Qualification level seems to make no significant difference in any domain. 78.6% of the participants beliefs in the benefits of utilizing natural products in preventing infection with corona virus or reducing the period of treatment in case of infection. About 95.7% of the infected persons had no need of hospitalization and about 50% are cured within two weeks of infection. The questionnaire revealed that Nescafe and black tea were the most used stimulant drinks among the participants, particularly the students and who were always under stress. Most of the participants agreed with the utilization of Zn-rich food, particularly Egyptians, which may help in boosting their immunity. Conclusion Natural products selected in the present study can be used in combination with the existing clinical standards of care that have the potential to serve as prophylactic agents in populations that are at risk to develop COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afaf El-Malah
- PhD. Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Taghreed A Ibrahim
- PhD. Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | - Hala Attia
- PhD. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Egypt.
| | - Basma G Eid
- PhD. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Amina M Bagher
- PhD. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Lenah S Binmahfouz
- PhD. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Nadia M Sokkar
- PhD. Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
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21
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Saxena S, Gautam S. Molecular events confirming antimutagenicity to abscisic acid derived from a floral honey establishing its functional relevance. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09945. [PMID: 35874072 PMCID: PMC9305366 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural dietary products of health promoting and disease preventive functional relevance are gaining significant prominence. Current investigation was aimed to decipher the underlying molecular mechanism responsible for the antimutagenic action contributing to functional relevance of floral honey (‘Pongammia pinnata’, Karanj honey) derived abscisic acid (ABA) against ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) induced mutagenesis. Differential expression of proteins under different treatment conditions was ascertained by 2D gel electrophoresis. Selectively up-regulated characterized using MALDI-TOF MS/MS were identified as polyribonucleotide nucleotidyl transferse (PNPase), LPS-assembly lipoprotein (LptE), Outer membrane Usher protein (HtrE), ATP-dependent DNA helicase (RecG), and Phosphomethyl pyrimidine synthase (ThiC). Antimutagenicity exerted by ABA against EMS was ∼78% in wild type E. coli MG1655 strain however, in E. coli MG1655 ΔthiC, ΔpnpA, ΔrecG, and ΔhtrE this activity was found to be ∼60, 10, 9 and 10%, respectively. Proteomic analysis and antimutagenicity studies using E. coli single gene knockout strains thus indicated about the possible role of thiC, htrE, lptE, recG and pnp in observed antimutagenicity. Cyclic voltametry as well as competition kinetics through pulse radiolysis confirmed lack of antioxidant capacity in abscisic acid apparently ruling out the possibility of scavenging of electrophilic intermediates generated by ethyl methanesulfonate. It is proposed that ABA is exerting antimutagenicity through its involvement at the cellular level leading to physiological adaptation, strengthening of cell wall proteins and up-regulation of the repair proteins. This study provides a novel dimension to the functional role of abscisic acid from its nutraceutical perspective. Molecular mechanism of purified abscisic acid from Pongammia pinnata honey studied. Differential protein expression observed against induced mutagenesis. Gene knock-out strains validated functionality of up-regulated proteins. Pulse radiolysis and cyclic voltametry confirmed no role of antioxidant activity. Abscisic acid is acting at cellular level in conferring protection against mutagen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhanshu Saxena
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India
| | - Satyendra Gautam
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
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22
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Islam MA, Haque MA, Rahman MA, Hossen F, Reza M, Barua A, Marzan AA, Das T, Kumar Baral S, He C, Ahmed F, Bhattacharya P, Jakariya M. A Review on Measures to Rejuvenate Immune System: Natural Mode of Protection Against Coronavirus Infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:837290. [PMID: 35371007 PMCID: PMC8965011 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.837290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, a novel Corona virus strain, was first detected in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. As of December 16, 2021, almost 4,822,472 people had died and over 236,132,082 were infected with this lethal viral infection. It is believed that the human immune system is thought to play a critical role in the initial phase of infection when the viruses invade the host cells. Although some effective vaccines have already been on the market, researchers and many bio-pharmaceuticals are still working hard to develop a fully functional vaccine or more effective therapeutic agent against the COVID-19. Other efforts, in addition to functional vaccines, can help strengthen the immune system to defeat the corona virus infection. Herein, we have reviewed some of those proven measures, following which a more efficient immune system can be better prepared to fight viral infection. Among these, dietary supplements like- fresh vegetables and fruits offer a plentiful of vitamins and antioxidants, enabling to build of a healthy immune system. While the pharmacologically active components of medicinal plants directly aid in fighting against viral infection, supplementary supplements combined with a healthy diet will assist to regulate the immune system and will prevent viral infection. In addition, some personal habits, like- regular physical exercise, intermittent fasting, and adequate sleep, had also been proven to aid the immune system in becoming an efficient one. Maintaining each of these will strengthen the immune system, allowing innate immunity to become a more defensive and active antagonistic mechanism against corona-virus infection. However, because dietary treatments take longer to produce beneficial effects in adaptive maturation, personalized nutrition cannot be expected to have an immediate impact on the global outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Aminul Islam
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh.,Department of Microbiology President Abdul Hamid Medical College, Karimganj, Bangladesh
| | - Md Atiqul Haque
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonoses of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
| | - Md Arifur Rahman
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Foysal Hossen
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Mahin Reza
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Abanti Barua
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah Al Marzan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Tuhin Das
- Department of Microbiology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | | | - Cheng He
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonoses of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Firoz Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Prosun Bhattacharya
- COVID-19 Research@KTH, Department of Sustainable Development, Environmental Science and Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Md Jakariya
- Department of Environmental Science and Management, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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23
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Optimization of sample preparation of Brazilian honeys for TQ-ICP-MS analysis. TALANTA OPEN 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talo.2022.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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24
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Toor R, Chana I. Exploring diet associations with Covid-19 and other diseases: a Network Analysis-based approach. Med Biol Eng Comput 2022; 60:991-1013. [PMID: 35171411 PMCID: PMC8852958 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-022-02505-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The current global pandemic, Covid-19, is a severe threat to human health and existence especially when it is mutating very frequently. Being a novel disease, Covid-19 is impacting the patients with comorbidities and is predicted to have long-term consequences, even for those who have recovered from it. To clearly recognize its impact, it is important to comprehend the complex relationship between Covid-19 and other diseases. It is also being observed that people with good immune system are less susceptible to the disease. It is perceived that if a correlation between Covid-19, other diseases, and diet is realized, then caregivers would be able to enhance their further course of medical action and recommendations. Network Analysis is one such technique that can bring forth such complex interdependencies and associations. In this paper, a Network Analysis–based approach has been proposed for analyzing the interplay of diets/foods along with Covid-19 and other diseases. Relationships between Covid-19, diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and diets have been curated, visualized, and further analyzed in this study so as to predict unknown associations. Network algorithms including Louvain graph algorithm (LA), K nearest neighbors (KNN), and Page rank algorithms (PR) have been employed for predicting a total of 60 disease-diet associations, out of which 46 have been found to be either significant in disease risk prevention/mitigation or in its progression as validated using PubMed literature. A precision of 76.7% has been achieved which is significant considering the involvement of a novel disease like Covid-19. The generated interdependencies can be further explored by medical professionals and caregivers in order to plan healthy eating patterns for Covid-19 patients. The proposed approach can also be utilized for finding beneficial diets for different combinations of comorbidities with Covid-19 as per the underlying health conditions of a patient. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmeet Toor
- Cloud and IoT Research Lab, Computer Science and Engineering Department, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, India.
| | - Inderveer Chana
- Cloud and IoT Research Lab, Computer Science and Engineering Department, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, India
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25
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Nikhat S, Fazil M. History, phytochemistry, experimental pharmacology and clinical uses of honey: A comprehensive review with special reference to Unani medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 282:114614. [PMID: 34508800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Honey is one of the most popular functional foods, speculated to be in use since the advent of human civilization. Its health-protective activity is endorsed by many religions and traditional medicines. In Unani medicine, honey is prescribed for many health conditions as wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, etc. In the present era, honey is gaining popularity over sugar for its myriad health benefits and low glycemic index. This review attempts to provide a comprehensive account of the biological activities and potential therapeutic uses of honey, with scientific evidence. METHODOLOGY In this paper, we have provided a comprehensive overview of historical uses, types, physical characteristics, bioactive constituents and pharmacological activities of honey. The information was gathered from Classical Unani textbooks and leading scientific databases. There is a plethora of information regarding various therapeutic activities of honey, and it is daunting to draw practical conclusions. Hence, in this paper, we have tried to summarize those aspects which are most relevant to clinical application. OBSERVATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS Many important bioactive constituents are identified in different honey types, e.g. phenolics, proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, organic acids, etc., which exert important biological activities like anti-microbial, wound healing, immunomodulatory, anti-toxin, antioxidant, and many others. Honey has the potential to alleviate many lifestyle disorders, mitigate the adverse effects of drugs and toxins, and also provide healthy nutrition. Although conclusive clinical evidence is not available, yet honey may potentially be a safer alternative to sucrose for diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Nikhat
- Dept. of Ilaj bit Tadbeer, School of Unani Medical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
| | - Mohammad Fazil
- HAK Institute for Literary and Historical Research in Unani Medicine, CCRUM, Jamia Millia Islamia Campus, New Delhi, India.
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26
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Shahsuvaryan ML. Apitherapy in COVID-19-Related Conjunctivitis. Dose Response 2022; 19:15593258211066694. [PMID: 34987343 PMCID: PMC8671671 DOI: 10.1177/15593258211066694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne L Shahsuvaryan
- Prof. at the Department of Ophthalmology, Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia
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27
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Rabby MII, Hossain F, Islam MA, Islam AS, Akhi IJ, Akter F. Impact of supplemental vitamins and natural honey for treatment of COVID-19: A review. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e20607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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28
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Naik PP, Mossialos D, van Wijk B, Novakova P, Wagener FADTG, Cremers NAJ. Medical-Grade Honey Outperforms Conventional Treatments for Healing Cold Sores-A Clinical Study. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:1264. [PMID: 34959664 PMCID: PMC8706154 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold sores are nasolabial blisters caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Novel therapies demonstrating simultaneously antiviral activity and improved wound healing are warranted. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of medical-grade honey (MGH) for treating HSV-induced cold sores. A crossover trial was performed in patients with recurrent cold sores (n = 29). The majority (65.6%) of these patients experience four or more episodes per year, thus forming a valid self-control group. In this study, patients applied an MGH-based formulation (L-Mesitran Soft) on their cold sore at the onset of symptoms (62.1%) or appearing of blister (37.9%) and compared it to their conventional treatments. After complete healing, patients filled in a questionnaire evaluating healing, pain, and itching. The average absolute healing time was 72.4% slower with conventional treatment (10.0 days) compared to MGH (5.8 days). After MGH treatment, 86.2% of all patients experienced faster objective healing (6.9% similar and 6.9% slower) and the subjective healing score was higher in 79.3% of the patients (20.7% similar). If the patients normally experience pain and itching during their cold sores, these levels were lower with MGH therapy compared to conventional treatment in 72.7% and 71.4% of the patients, respectively. Moreover, 100% of the patients prefer MGH treatment over conventional treatment and will use it again on future cold sores. MGH is a promising alternative treatment for cold sores, likely by combining both increased antiviral and wound healing activities while alleviating pain and itching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyu Parth Naik
- Saudi German Hospitals and Clinics, Department of Dermatology, Hessa Street 331 West, Al Barsha 3, Exit 36 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai P.O. Box 391093, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Dimitris Mossialos
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis-Mezurlo, 41500 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Bas van Wijk
- Department of Dentistry, Radboud University Medical Center, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (B.v.W.); (F.A.D.T.G.W.)
| | - Petra Novakova
- LERAM Pharmaceuticals s.r.o., Páteřní 1216/7, 63500 Brno, Czech Republic;
| | - Frank A. D. T. G. Wagener
- Department of Dentistry, Radboud University Medical Center, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (B.v.W.); (F.A.D.T.G.W.)
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29
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Scepankova H, Pinto CA, Paula V, Estevinho LM, Saraiva JA. Conventional and emergent technologies for honey processing: A perspective on microbiological safety, bioactivity, and quality. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2021; 20:5393-5420. [PMID: 34626076 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Honey is a natural food of worldwide economic importance. Over the last decades, its potential for food, medical, cosmetical, and biotechnological applications has been widely explored. One of the major safety issues regarding such applications is its susceptibility to being contaminated with bacterial and fungi spores, including pathogenic ones, which may impose a hurdle to its consumption in a raw state. Another factor that makes this product particularly challenging relies on its high sugar content, which will lead to the formation of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) when heated (due to Maillard reactions). Moreover, honey's bioactivity is known to be affected when it goes through thermal processing due to its unstable and thermolabile components. Therefore, proper food processing methodologies are of utmost importance not only to ensure honey safety but also to provide a high-quality product with low content of HMF and preserved biological properties. As so, emerging food processing technologies have been employed to improve the safety and quality of raw honey, allowing, for example, to reduce/avoid the exposure time to high processing temperatures, with consequent impact on the formation of HMF. This review aims to gather the literature available regarding the use of conventional and emergent food processing technologies (both thermal and nonthermal food processing technologies) for honey decontamination, preservation/enhancement of honey biological activity, as well as the sensorial attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Scepankova
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Pinto
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Paula
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Letícia M Estevinho
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Jorge A Saraiva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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30
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Honeybee products for the treatment and recovery from viral respiratory infections including SARS-COV-2: A rapid systematic review. Integr Med Res 2021; 10:100779. [PMID: 34611512 PMCID: PMC8483994 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2021.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This rapid review systematically evaluated the effects of honeybee products compared to controls for the prevention, duration, severity, and recovery of acute viral respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including SARS-CoV-2, in adults and children. Methods Cochrane rapid review methods were applied. Four English databases plus preprint servers and trial registries were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The evidence was appraised and synthesized using RoB 2.0 and GRADE. Results 27 results were derived from 9 RCTs that included 674 adults and 781 children. In hospitalized adults with SARS-CoV-2, propolis plus usual-care compared to usual-care alone reduced the risk of shock, respiratory failure and kidney injury and duration of hospital admission. Honey was less effective than Guaifenesin for reducing cough severity at 60-minutes in adults with non-specific acute viral RTIs. Compared to coffee, honey plus coffee, and honey alone reduced the severity of post-infectious cough in adults. Honey reduced the duration of cough in children compared to placebo and salbutamol; and the global impact of nocturnal cough after one night compared to usual-care alone and pharmaceutical cough medicines. Conclusion More studies are needed to robustly assess honeybee's role in SARS-CoV-2 and non-specific viral respiratory infections. Protocol registration PROSPERO: CRD42020193847.
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Pajokh M, Pourfridoni M. Proposing a nasal trehalose-induced autophagy approach against SARS-CoV 2. Health Sci Rep 2021; 4:e375. [PMID: 34604543 PMCID: PMC8474006 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mojde Pajokh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine Jiroft University of Medical Sciences Jiroft Iran
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32
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Miłek M, Grabek-Lejko D, Stępień K, Sidor E, Mołoń M, Dżugan M. The enrichment of honey with Aronia melanocarpa fruits enhances its in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential and intensifies its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Food Funct 2021; 12:8920-8931. [PMID: 34606549 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo02248b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of adding the chokeberry fruit additive to rape honey was studied with regard to the physicochemical properties and biological activity. Two samples of dried powdered fruits were used to enrich the honey (1 and 4% v/v) during creaming. The obtained products were characterized in terms of sugar content, acidity, conductivity, total phenolic, flavonoid and anthocyanin contents and HPTLC polyphenol profiles. The antioxidant properties of enriched honeys were studied in vitro (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS) and in vivo using a S. cerevisiae model. The inhibitory effect against 5 bacterial strains and coronavirus surrogate bacteriophage phi6 was tested. The addition of chokeberry significantly modified the physicochemical properties of honey and enhanced its antioxidant potential (from 3 to 15 times). Using HPTLC analysis, the occurrence of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins in chokeberry enriched honey was determined. The modified honey protected yeast cells against H2O2-induced oxidative stress when used as a pretreatment agent. All tested bacteria were susceptible to enriched honey in a dose-dependent manner. The antiviral potential of enriched honey against the model bacteriophage was discovered for the first time. In terms of numerous health benefits determined, honey enriched with Aronia melanocarpa fruits can be considered as an interesting novel functional food, which may increase the consumption of chokeberry superfruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Miłek
- Department of Chemistry and Food Toxicology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Ćwiklińskiej 1a St., 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Dorota Grabek-Lejko
- Department of Bioenergetics, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Zelwerowicza 4 St, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Karolina Stępień
- Department of Biology, University of Rzeszow, Zelwerowicza 4 St., 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Ewelina Sidor
- Department of Chemistry and Food Toxicology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Ćwiklińskiej 1a St., 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Mateusz Mołoń
- Department of Biology, University of Rzeszow, Zelwerowicza 4 St., 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Dżugan
- Department of Chemistry and Food Toxicology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Ćwiklińskiej 1a St., 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
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Overview on the Prevalence of Fungal Infections, Immune Response, and Microbiome Role in COVID-19 Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090720. [PMID: 34575758 PMCID: PMC8466761 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with severe COVID-19, such as individuals in intensive care units (ICU), are exceptionally susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections. The most prevalent fungal infections are aspergillosis and candidemia. Nonetheless, other fungal species (for instance, Histoplasma spp., Rhizopus spp., Mucor spp., Cryptococcus spp.) have recently been increasingly linked to opportunistic fungal diseases in COVID-19 patients. These fungal co-infections are described with rising incidence, severe illness, and death that is associated with host immune response. Awareness of the high risks of the occurrence of fungal co-infections is crucial to downgrade any arrear in diagnosis and treatment to support the prevention of severe illness and death directly related to these infections. This review analyses the fungal infections, treatments, outcome, and immune response, considering the possible role of the microbiome in these patients. The search was performed in Medline (PubMed), using the words "fungal infections COVID-19", between 2020-2021.
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34
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Antonio A, Wiedemann L, Galante E, Guimarães A, Matharu A, Veiga-Junior V. Efficacy and sustainability of natural products in COVID-19 treatment development: opportunities and challenges in using agro-industrial waste from Citrus and apple. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07816. [PMID: 34423146 PMCID: PMC8366044 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products have been used in the treatment of illnesses throughout the history of humankind. Exploitation of bioactive compounds from natural sources can aid in the discovery of new drugs, provide the scaffold of new medicines. In the face of challenging diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, for which there was no effective treatment, nature could offer insights as to novel therapeutic options for control measures. However, the environmental impact and supply chain of bioactive production must be carefully evaluated to ensure the detrimental effects will not outweigh the potential benefits gained. History has already proven that highly bioactive compounds can be rare and not suitable for medicinal exploitation; therefore, the sustainability must be accessed before expensive, time-demanding, and large trials can be initialized. A sustainable option to readily produce a phytotherapy with minimal environmental stress is the use of agro-industry wastes, a by-product produced in high quantities. In this review we evaluate the sustainability issues associated with the production of phytotherapy as a readily available tool for pandemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.S. Antonio
- Chemical Engineering Section, Military Institute of Engineering, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Praia Vermelha, Urca, 22290-270, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Chemistry Department, Institute of Exact Sciences, Amazonas Federal University, Avenida Rodrigo Otávio, 6200, Coroado, 69077-000, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - L.S.M. Wiedemann
- Chemistry Department, Institute of Exact Sciences, Amazonas Federal University, Avenida Rodrigo Otávio, 6200, Coroado, 69077-000, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - E.B.F. Galante
- Chemical Engineering Section, Military Institute of Engineering, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Praia Vermelha, Urca, 22290-270, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - A.C. Guimarães
- Chemistry Department, Institute of Exact Sciences, Amazonas Federal University, Avenida Rodrigo Otávio, 6200, Coroado, 69077-000, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - A.S. Matharu
- Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Department of Chemistry, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - V.F. Veiga-Junior
- Chemical Engineering Section, Military Institute of Engineering, Praça General Tibúrcio, 80, Praia Vermelha, Urca, 22290-270, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Nainu F, Masyita A, Bahar MA, Raihan M, Prova SR, Mitra S, Emran TB, Simal-Gandara J. Pharmaceutical Prospects of Bee Products: Special Focus on Anticancer, Antibacterial, Antiviral, and Antiparasitic Properties. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10070822. [PMID: 34356743 PMCID: PMC8300842 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10070822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee products have long been used in traditional healing practices to treat many types of disorders, including cancer and microbial-related diseases. Indeed, several chemical compounds found in bee products have been demonstrated to display anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic properties. With the improvement of research tools and in view of recent advances related to bee products, this review aims to provide broad yet detailed insight into the pharmaceutical prospects of bee products such as honey, propolis, bee pollen, royal jelly, bee bread, beeswax, and bee venom, in the domain of cancer and infectious disease management. Available literature confirms the efficacy of these bee products in the alleviation of cancer progression, inhibition of bacterial and viral proliferation, and mitigation of parasitic-related symptoms. With such potentials, bioactive components isolated from the bee products can be used as an alternative approach in the long-run effort to improve humans’ health at a personal and community level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firzan Nainu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia; (A.M.); (M.A.B.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence: (F.N.); (T.B.E.); (J.S.-G.); Tel.: +62-821-9131-0384 (F.N.); +88-01819-942214 (T.B.E.); +34-988-387-001 (J.S.-G.)
| | - Ayu Masyita
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia; (A.M.); (M.A.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Muh. Akbar Bahar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia; (A.M.); (M.A.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Muhammad Raihan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia; (A.M.); (M.A.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Shajuthi Rahman Prova
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.R.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.R.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
- Correspondence: (F.N.); (T.B.E.); (J.S.-G.); Tel.: +62-821-9131-0384 (F.N.); +88-01819-942214 (T.B.E.); +34-988-387-001 (J.S.-G.)
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo, Ourense Campus, E32004 Ourense, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.N.); (T.B.E.); (J.S.-G.); Tel.: +62-821-9131-0384 (F.N.); +88-01819-942214 (T.B.E.); +34-988-387-001 (J.S.-G.)
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36
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Zhang YZ, Si JJ, Li SS, Zhang GZ, Wang S, Zheng HQ, Hu FL. Chemical Analyses and Antimicrobial Activity of Nine Kinds of Unifloral Chinese Honeys Compared to Manuka Honey (12+ and 20+). Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092778. [PMID: 34066799 PMCID: PMC8125924 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Honey has good antimicrobial properties and can be used for medical treatment. The antimicrobial properties of unifloral honey varieties are different. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of nine kinds of Chinese monofloral honeys. In addition, headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) technology was used to detect their volatile components. The relevant results are as follows: 1. The agar diffusion test showed that the diameter of inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus of Fennel honey (21.50 ± 0.41 mm), Agastache honey (20.74 ± 0.37 mm), and Pomegranate honey (18.16 ± 0.11 mm) was larger than that of Manuka 12+ honey (14.27 ± 0.10 mm) and Manuka 20+ honey (16.52 ± 0.12 mm). The antimicrobial activity of Chinese honey depends on hydrogen peroxide. 2. The total antioxidant capacity of Fennel honey, Agastache honey, and Pomegranate honey was higher than that of other Chinese honeys. There was a significant positive correlation between the total antioxidant capacity and the total phenol content of Chinese honey (r = 0.958). The correlation coefficient between the chroma value of Chinese honey and the total antioxidant and the diameter of inhibition zone was 0.940 and 0.746, respectively. The analyzed dark honeys had better antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. 3. There were significant differences in volatile components among Fennel honey, Agastache honey, Pomegranate honey, and Manuka honey. Hexanal-D and Heptanol were the characteristic components of Fennel honey and Pomegranate honey, respectively. Ethyl 2-methylbutyrate and 3-methylpentanoic acids were the unique compounds of Agastache honey. The flavor fingerprints of the honey samples from different plants can be successfully built using HS-GC-IMS and principal component analysis (PCA) based on their volatile compounds. Fennel honey, Agastache honey, and Pomegranate honey are Chinese honey varieties with excellent antimicrobial properties, and have the potential to be developed into medical grade honey.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fu-Liang Hu
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-27-8898-2952
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37
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Badary OA, Hamza MS, Tikamdas R. Thymoquinone: A Promising Natural Compound with Potential Benefits for COVID-19 Prevention and Cure. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:1819-1833. [PMID: 33976534 PMCID: PMC8106451 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s308863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has caused a major global health crisis, as excessive inflammation, oxidation, and exaggerated immune response in some sufferers can lead to a condition known as cytokine storm, which may progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDs), which can be fatal. So far, few effective drugs have emerged to assist in the treatment of patients with COVID-19, though some herbal medicine candidates may assist in the fight against COVID-19 deaths. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main active ingredient of black seed oil, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anticoagulant activities. TQ also increases the activity and number of cytokine suppressors, lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and macrophages, and it has demonstrated antiviral potential against a number of viruses, including murine cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and other coronaviruses. Recently, TQ has demonstrated notable antiviral activity against a SARSCoV-2 strain isolated from Egyptian patients and, interestingly, molecular docking studies have also shown that TQ could potentially inhibit COVID-19 development through binding to the receptor-binding domain on the spike and envelope proteins of SARS-CoV-2, which may hinder virus entry into the host cell and inhibit its ion channel and pore forming activity. Other studies have shown that TQ may have an inhibitory effect on SARS CoV2 proteases, which could diminish viral replication, and it has also demonstrated good antagonism to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, allowing it to interfere with virus uptake into the host cell. Several studies have also noted its potential protective capability against numerous chronic diseases and conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, asthma, renal dysfunction and malignancy. TQ has recently been tested in clinical trials for the treatment of several different diseases, and this review thus aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of TQ in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A Badary
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt.,Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa S Hamza
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rajiv Tikamdas
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
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38
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Detopoulou P, Demopoulos CA, Antonopoulou S. Micronutrients, Phytochemicals and Mediterranean Diet: A Potential Protective Role against COVID-19 through Modulation of PAF Actions and Metabolism. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020462. [PMID: 33573169 PMCID: PMC7911163 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is an emerging situation with high rates of morbidity and mortality, in the pathophysiology of which inflammation and thrombosis are implicated. The disease is directly connected to the nutritional status of patients and a well-balanced diet is recommended by official sources. Recently, the role of platelet activating factor (PAF) was suggested in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. In the present review several micronutrients (vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals), phytochemicals and Mediterranean diet compounds with potential anti-COVID activity are presented. We further underline that the well-known anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic actions of the investigated nutrients and/or holistic dietary schemes, such as the Mediterranean diet, are also mediated through PAF. In conclusion, there is no single food to prevent coronavirus Although the relationship between PAF and COVID-19 is not robust, a healthy diet containing PAF inhibitors may target both inflammation and thrombosis and prevent the deleterious effects of COVID-19. The next step is the experimental confirmation or not of the PAF-COVID-19 hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Detopoulou
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, General Hospital Korgialenio Benakio, 11526 Athens, Greece;
| | - Constantinos A. Demopoulos
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece;
| | - Smaragdi Antonopoulou
- Laboratory of Biology, Biochemistry and Microbiology, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Science and Education, Harokopio University, 70 El. Venizelou Street, 17671 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-954-9230; Fax: +30-210-957-7050
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39
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Hanna R, Dalvi S, Sălăgean T, Pop ID, Bordea IR, Benedicenti S. Understanding COVID-19 Pandemic: Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Strategies. An Evidence-Based Review. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:13-56. [PMID: 33447071 PMCID: PMC7802346 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s282213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Initially, the SARS-CoV-2 virus was considered as a pneumonia virus; however, a series of peer reviewed medical papers published in the last eight months suggest that this virus attacks the brain, heart, intestine, nervous and vascular systems, as well the blood stream. Although many facts remain unknown, an objective appraisal of the current scientific literature addressing the latest progress on COVID-19 is required. The aim of the present study was to conduct a critical review of the literature, focusing on the current molecular structure of SARS-CoV-2 and prospective treatment modalities of COVID-19. The main objectives were to collect, scrutinize and objectively evaluate the current scientific evidence-based information, as well to provide an updated overview of the topic that is ongoing. The authors underlined potential prospective therapies, including vaccine and phototherapy, as a monotherapy or combined with current treatment modalities. The authors concluded that this review has produced high quality evidence, which can be utilized by the clinical scientific community for future reference, as the knowledge and understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are evolving, in terms of its epidemiological, pathogenicity, and clinical manifestations, which ultimately map the strategic path, towards an effective and safe treatment and production of a reliable and potent vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Hanna
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Oral Surgery, Dental Institute, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Snehal Dalvi
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Periodontology, Swargiya Dadasaheb Kalmegh Smruti Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, India
| | - Tudor Sălăgean
- Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Delia Pop
- Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Roxana Bordea
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Stefano Benedicenti
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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