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Amera WA, Mersso BT, Sisay TA, Arega AB, Alene AT. Effect of various supplements on productive performance of honey bees, in the south Wollo Zone, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303579. [PMID: 38809892 PMCID: PMC11135746 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The productivity and well-being of honey bee colonies are greatly influenced by the nutrients present in the hives. A study was conducted to evaluate different supplemental feeds on honey bee productive performance during dearth periods. Thirty colonies were grouped into five (four treatment groups and one control group) and each group contained three sub-groups (2 weak, 2 strong, and 2 very strong). Control groups were not given any supplementation. Treatment diets were T1 (50% sugar syrup + 14% roasted barley powder (beso) + 36% roasted spiced pea powder (Shiro)), T2 (50% powder sugar + 14% white sorghum powder + 36% bakery yeast, T3 (50% powder sugar + 14% white sorghum powder + 36% skimmed milk powder), T4 (50% sugar syrup with infusion of stinging nettle and 1% kerefa + 50% white sorghum powder). Feed was given on the entrance sides. The performance of experimental colonies was measured every 21 days in two phases during the dry season (from 3_2_2021 to 27_4_2021) and the rainy season (from 28-7_2021 to 1_10_2021). Feed intake, space (cm2) of pollen, nectar, and honey in the comb were measured using a frame-sized transparent grid meter. The study revealed significant differences (p<0.0001) in all measured parameters among the various treatments. The diet provided by T4 showed the highest levels of crude protein (18.15%) and carbohydrates (92.15%), whereas the diet presented by T3 had the lowest crude protein content (6.66%) and the diet offered by T1 had the lowest carbohydrate content (61.91%). In general, colonies that received T4 showcased superior performance compared to others. They exhibited a feed intake of 98.3%, a nectar area of 54.3 cm2, a pollen area of 68.7 cm2, a honey area of 311.2 cm2, and a honey yield of 7 kg. Consequently, their net profit amounted to 51.54 USD. On the other hand, the colonies that received T1 had the lowest performance indicators. They demonstrated a feed intake of only 54.7%, a nectar area of 37.6 cm2, a pollen area of 48.8 cm2, a honey area of 254.3 cm2, a honey yield of 2.8 kg, and a net profit of 18.81 USD. The significance of this study was to enable the beekeepers in realizing the effects of feed supplements on the productivity and profitability of honeybee colonies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wubalem Alebachew Amera
- Department of Animal Science, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
- Department of Animal Production Studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhan Tamir Mersso
- Department of Animal Production Studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Amssalu Bezabeh Arega
- Holeta Bee Research Center, Oromia Institute of Agricultural Research, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Abiyu Tadele Alene
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Bonga University, Ethiopia
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Petran M, Dragoș D, Stoian I, Vlad A, Gilca M. Current use of medicinal plants for children's diseases among mothers in Southern Romania. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1377341. [PMID: 38841372 PMCID: PMC11150775 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1377341] [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: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a limited number of studies focusing on ethnomedical practices in children, particularly in Eastern Europe. Romania has a rich history of using medicinal plants in ethnopediatric care, and our objective was to identify the medicinal plants currently employed in treating childhood illnesses in the southern region of the country. Material and methods Our investigation used structured interviews, focusing on respondent demographics, local names of therapeutically employed herbs, the specific plant part(s) utilized, methods of preparation and administration, and local folk indications of taxa. A total of 326 mothers with children aged 0 to 18, hospitalized in the "Grigore Alexandrescu" Children Emergency Hospital Bucharest and residing in Southern Romania, were enrolled in the study. Use Value Citation Index (UVc), Informant Consensus Factor (Fic), and Fidelity Level (FL) were calculated. Results Twenty-five plants were identified for treating children's diseases in Southern Romania. The majority of informants resided in urban areas, and mothers primarily acquired knowledge from family members and healthcare professionals. The herbs most frequently employed were Mentha spp. (UV = 0.509) for diarrhea, Matricaria spp. (UV = 0.301) for skin infections (Fic = 0.99) and digestive diseases (Fic = 0.98), and Calendula officinalis L. (UV = 0.365) for skin diseases (Fic = 0.99). Less utilized were Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus (L.) Domin in respiratory diseases, Prunus avium (L.) L. stalks in urinary tract ailments, Helianthus annuus L. in ear infections, Allium sativum L. in intestinal parasitosis, Viola tricolor L. in hives, Triticum aestivum L. in dermatitis and Allium ursinum L. as a tonic. In 184 cases herbal treatment was used in conjunction with conventional medications. Education level correlated with the number of employed plants and the variety of treated ailments, while residency (rural vs. urban) did not. Both residency and education influenced plant procurement methods: rural background and, surprisingly, higher education were linked to a preference for harvesting rather than purchasing plants. Conclusion Botanical remedies are still commonly used in the treatment of pediatric diseases in Southern Romania, although the variety of taxa seems reduced compared to the past. Further exploration is essential to unlock the maximum benefits of ethnopediatric practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Petran
- Department of Functional Sciences I/Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dorin Dragoș
- Department of Medical Semiology, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- First Internal Medicine Clinic, University Emergency Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Stoian
- Department of Functional Sciences I/Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adelina Vlad
- Department of Functional Sciences I/Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marilena Gilca
- Department of Functional Sciences I/Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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Culhuac EB, Bello M. Evaluation of Urtica dioica Phytochemicals against Therapeutic Targets of Allergic Rhinitis Using Computational Studies. Molecules 2024; 29:1765. [PMID: 38675586 PMCID: PMC11052477 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29081765] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent inflammatory condition affecting millions globally, with current treatments often associated with significant side effects. To seek safer and more effective alternatives, natural sources like Urtica dioica (UD) are being explored. However, UD's mechanism of action remains unknown. Therefore, to elucidate it, we conducted an in silico evaluation of UD phytochemicals' effects on known therapeutic targets of allergic rhinitis: histamine receptor 1 (HR1), neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (CLR1), chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on type 2 helper T cells (CRTH2), and bradykinin receptor type 2 (BK2R). The docking analysis identified amentoflavone, alpha-tocotrienol, neoxanthin, and isorhamnetin 3-O-rutinoside as possessing a high affinity for all the receptors. Subsequently, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to analyze the key interactions; the free energy of binding was calculated through Generalized Born and Surface Area Solvation (MMGBSA), and the conformational changes were evaluated. Alpha-tocotrienol exhibited a high affinity while also inducing positive conformational changes across all targets. Amentoflavone primarily affected CRTH2, neoxanthin targeted NK1R, CRTH2, and BK2R, and isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside acted on NK1R. These findings suggest UD's potential to treat AR symptoms by inhibiting these targets. Notably, alpha-tocotrienol emerges as a promising multi-target inhibitor. Further in vivo and in vitro studies are needed for validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Bahena Culhuac
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico;
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca 50000, Mexico
| | - Martiniano Bello
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 11340, Mexico;
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Gezer A, Aras SY, Baygutalp NK, Sari EK, Bedir G, Mokhtare B, Yilmaz K. Effect of vitamin D 3 and a stinging nettle extract on the gastric tissue of rats administered with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid. VET MED-CZECH 2024; 69:84-93. [PMID: 38623153 PMCID: PMC11016305 DOI: 10.17221/111/2023-vetmed] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, the effects of vitamin D3 (Vit. D) and a stinging nettle [Urtica dioica L. (UD)] extract were examined using histopathological and immunohistochemical methods in the stomach tissues of an experimentally created rat model of Crohn's disease (CD). The CD model was created using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). The animals in the study were divided into control, TNBS, TNBS+Vit. D, and TNBS+UD groups. At the end of the experiment, the animals were euthanised and their stomach tissues were evaluated for necrosis, degeneration, apoptosis, and inflammation. Additionally, an immunohistochemical method was applied to determine the somatostatin (SSTR), aquaporin-1 (AQP-1), caspase-3, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) immunoreactivity in the gastric tissues. In the evaluations, degenerative and necrotic changes and mononuclear cell infiltration areas were observed in the TNBS group, but such changes could be improved with Vit. D and UD applications. The results suggest that the combination of the Vit. D and UD extract may have a protective and therapeutic role in mitigating TNBS-induced damage to the gastric tissues, potentially through the regulation of SSTR, AQP-1, caspase-3, and TNF-α expression. This indicates a promising avenue for further research and the exploration of these compounds in the context of gastrointestinal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arzu Gezer
- Vocational School of Health Services, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkiye
| | - Sukran Yediel Aras
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kafkas University, Kars, Turkiye
| | | | - Ebru Karadag Sari
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Kars, Turkiye
| | - Gursel Bedir
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkiye
| | - Behzad Mokhtare
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkiye
| | - Kadriye Yilmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Kars, Turkiye
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Rahmani Z, Karimi M, Saffari I, Mirzaei H, Nejati M, Sharafati Chaleshtori R. Nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation of a hydroethanolic extract of Nettle ( Urtica dioica) and Wormwood ( Artemisia absinthium): comparison of antibacterial and anticancer activity. Front Chem 2024; 12:1266573. [PMID: 38292020 PMCID: PMC10824895 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1266573] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation are attractive novel methods that can be used for incorporating active plant extracts in food preparations and pharmaceutical formulations. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the anticancer and antibacterial effects of hydroethanolic extracts of Nettle (NE), Wormwood (WE), and the combination of the two plants (CNWE), as well as their nanoemulsion forms (NN, NW, CNNW) and nanoencapsulation forms (CN, CW, and CCNW). Methods: The morphology and structure of the nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation preparations were assessed utilizing dynamic light scattering (DLS) along with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antibacterial activity of the prepared formulations were assessed by determining minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), zone of inhibition diameter, minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), along with biofilm growth inhibition against Salmonaella typhimurium and Klebsiella. pneumoniae. The anticancer activity was evaluated via a MTT assay in the colon cancer cell line (HCT116). Results: The nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation particle size varied between 10 and 50 nm and 60 and 110 nm, respectively. The MIC values were between 11.25 and 95 µg/mL along with MBC values between 11.25 and 190 µg/mL. The highest inhibition of biofilm formation was observed with CCNW against K. pneumoniae (∼78.5%) and S. typhimurium (∼73%). In descending order, the inhibition of biofilm formation was CCNW > CW > CN > CNNW > NN > NW > CNWE > NE > WE against the tested bacteria. The IC50 values for NE, WE, CNWE, NN, NW, CNNW, CN, CW, and CCNW were determined as 250, 170, 560, 380, 312, 370, 250, 420, and 700 µg/mL, respectively. Exposure to a high concentration of NW resulted in a significantly lower HCT116 viability compared to other groups. Taken together, CNNW, and CCNW showed the highest antibacterial and anticancer activitiy. Discussion: Nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation were effective ways to increase the antibacterial and anticancer activity of the extracts and could be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Rahmani
- Department of Laser and Photonics, Faculty of Physics, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Merat Karimi
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Iman Saffari
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Majid Nejati
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Reza Sharafati Chaleshtori
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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Jarić S, Kostić O, Miletić Z, Marković M, Sekulić D, Mitrović M, Pavlović P. Ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal research into medicinal plants in the Mt Stara Planina region (south-eastern Serbia, Western Balkans). JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:7. [PMID: 38200599 PMCID: PMC10782642 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethnobotanical research in Southeast Europe-one of the most important European hotspots for biocultural diversity-is significant for the acquisition of Traditional Ecological Knowledge related to plants as well as for encouraging the development of local environments. The current ethnobotanical research was conducted in the region of Mt Stara Planina (south-eastern Serbia), which is characterised by rich phytodiversity with a large number of endemic and relict plant species. The aim of the study was to document the diversity of uses of medicinal plants and of traditional knowledge on their therapeutic uses. METHODS Ethnobotanical data was collected through both open and semi-structured interviews with locals. Fifty-one inhabitants were interviewed (26 men and 25 women), aged 30-91, and data was analysed by means of use reports, citation frequency, use values (UV), and the informant consensus factor (ICF). RESULTS The study identified 136 vascular medicinal plant taxa and one lichen species belonging to 53 families and 116 genera. Lamiaceae (19), Rosaceae (18), and Asteraceae (17) had the highest species diversity. The plant parts most commonly used to make a variety of herbal preparations were the aerial parts (54 citations), leaves (35 citations), fruits (20 citations), flowers (18 citations), and roots (16 citations), while the most common forms of preparation were teas (60.78%), consumption of fresh tubers, leaves, roots, and fructus (6.86%), compresses (5.88%), juices (5.39%), decoctions (3.92%), 'travarica' brandy (3.92%), and syrups (2.45%). Of the recorded species, 102 were administered orally, 17 topically, and 18 both orally and topically. The plants with a maximum use value (UV = 1) were Allium sativum, Allium ursinum, Gentiana asclepiadea, Gentiana cruciata, Gentiana lutea, Hypericum perforatum, Thymus serpyllum and Urtica dioica. The highest ICF value (ICF = 0.95) was recorded in the categories of Skin and Blood, Blood Forming Organs, and Immune Mechanism. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that medicinal plants in the research area are an extremely important natural resource for the local population as they are an important component of their health culture and provide a better standard of living.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snežana Jarić
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Olga Kostić
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorana Miletić
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Marković
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dimitrije Sekulić
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miroslava Mitrović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Pavle Pavlović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108, Belgrade, Serbia
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Xi O, Guo W, Hu H. Analysis of Genes Associated with Feeding Preference and Detoxification in Various Developmental Stages of Aglais urticae. INSECTS 2024; 15:30. [PMID: 38249036 PMCID: PMC10816842 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Herbivorous insects and host plants have developed a close and complex relationship over a long period of co-evolution. Some plants provide nutrients for insects, but plants' secondary metabolites also influence their growth and development. Urtica cannabina roots and leaves are poisonous, yet Aglais urticae larvae feed on them, so we aimed to clarify the mechanism enabling this interaction. At present, studies on the detoxification mechanism of the A. urticae are rare. In our study, first, we used the A. urticae larval odor selection behavior bioassay and choice feeding preference assay to analyze the feeding preferences of A. urticae on its host plant, U. cannabina. Next, we used transcriptome sequencing to obtain the unigenes annotated and classified by various databases, such as KEGG and GO. In this study, we found that U. cannabina could attract A. urticae larvae to feed via scent, and the feeding preference assay confirmed that larvae preferred U. cannabina leaves over three other plants: Cirsium japonicum, Cannabis sativa, and Arctium lappa. The activity of detoxifying enzymes GST and CarE changed in larvae that had consumed U. cannabina. Furthermore, through transcriptomic sequencing analysis, 77,624 unigenes were assembled from raw reads. The numbers of differentially expressed genes were calculated using pairwise comparisons of all life stages; the expression of detoxification enzyme genes was substantially higher in larvae than in the pupal and adult stages. Finally, we identified and summarized 34 genes associated with detoxification enzymes, such as UDP-glucose 4-epimerase gene, 5 Glutathione S-transferase genes, 4 Carboxylesterase genes, 4 Cytochrome P450 genes, 10 ATP-binding cassette genes, 4 Superoxide dismutase, and Peroxidase. Moreover, we identified 28 genes associated with the development of A. urticae. The qRT-PCR results were nearly consistent with the transcriptomic data, showing an increased expression level of four genes in larvae. Taken together, this study examines the correlation between A. urticae and host plants U. cannabina, uncovering a pronounced preference for A. urticae larvae toward host plants. Consistent with RNA-seq, we investigated the mechanism of A. urticae's interaction with host plants and identified detoxification-related genes. The present study provides theoretical support for studying insect adaptation mechanisms and biological control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouyan Xi
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China; (O.X.); (W.G.)
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, Urumqi 830046, China
| | - Wentao Guo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China; (O.X.); (W.G.)
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, Urumqi 830046, China
| | - Hongying Hu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China; (O.X.); (W.G.)
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, Urumqi 830046, China
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Dujmović M, Opačić N, Radman S, Fabek Uher S, Čoga L, Petek M, Voća S, Šic Žlabur J. How to Increase the Nutritional Quality of Stinging Nettle Through Controlled Plant Nutrition §. Food Technol Biotechnol 2023; 61:451-464. [PMID: 38205052 PMCID: PMC10775789 DOI: 10.17113/ftb.61.04.23.8119] [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: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Research background As food production faces major challenges, modern agricultural practices are increasingly focused on conserving resources, reducing negative environmental impacts and sustainably producing food with a high content of health-promoting phytochemicals. During production, many factors can affect the quality and chemical composition of a final food product. Proper selection of cultivating conditions, especially a balanced nutrition, can significantly increase nutritional value and result in foods with strong biological and functional properties. Stinging nettle is a rich source of minerals, vitamins, pigments, phenols and other bioactive compounds and can be consumed as a green leafy vegetable with beneficial effects on human health. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the nutritional quality and antioxidant capacity of stinging nettle leaves under the influence of different nutrient solution (NS) treatments and three harvest cycles. Experimental approach The experiment was conducted in a floating hydroponic system in which treatments with different nutrient solutions were applied and three harvest cycles were carried out. After each harvest, the following treatments were applied: treatment 1 - depletion of nutrient solution by adding water, treatment 2 - supplementation of nutrient solution by adding initial nutrient solution and treatment 3 - correction of nutrient solution by adding nutrients. Among the bioactive compounds, minerals, ascorbic acid, phenols and photosynthetic pigments content, as well as antioxidant capacity were analysed spectrophotometrically, while individual phenols were determined by liquid chromatography. Results and conclusions Different nutrition solution treatments and the number of harvest cycles had a significant effect on the content of the analysed bioactive compounds. The highest mass fraction (on fresh mass basis) of total phenols expressed as gallic acid equivalents (377.04 mg/100 g), total flavonoids expressed as catechol equivalents (279.54 mg/100 g), ascorbic acid (112.37 mg/100 g) and pigments (total chlorophylls 1.84, and total carotenoids 0.36 mg/g) as well as the highest antioxidant capacity expressed as Trolox equivalents (35.47 µmol/g) were recorded in the samples supplemented with nutrient solution (treatment NS2) and analysed after the third harvest. Novelty and scientific contribution This is the first time that stinging nettle leaves have been produced in a floating hydroponic system by controlled plant nutrition. We have set this type of nutritional manipulation with multiple harvest cycles as an innovative technique for the production of novel food with improved nutritional value that can be consumed as green leafy vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Dujmović
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Technology, Storage and Transport, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nevena Opačić
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Vegetable Crops, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanja Radman
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Vegetable Crops, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanja Fabek Uher
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Vegetable Crops, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lepomir Čoga
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Plant Nutrition, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Petek
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Plant Nutrition, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sandra Voća
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Technology, Storage and Transport, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jana Šic Žlabur
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Technology, Storage and Transport, Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Dakhli N, Rtibi K, Arrari F, Ayari A, Sebai H. Prophylactic Coloprotective Effect of Urtica dioica Leaves against Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1990. [PMID: 38004039 PMCID: PMC10673539 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59111990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Urtica dioica, a source of bioactive functional compounds, provides nutritional and gastrointestinal therapeutic benefits. This study attempted to investigate the prophylactic coloprotective action of an aqueous extract of Urtica dioica (AEUD) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). Materials and Methods: Phenolic compounds, total sugar, and mineral levels were determined in AEUD. Then, AEUD at different doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) and mesalazine (MESA) as a standard treatment (100 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) were given orally for 21 days. Acute colitis was induced by administering drinking water with 5% (w/v) DSS for 7 days. Body weight variation, fecal occult blood, and stool consistency were determined daily. The severity of colitis was graded according to colon length, disease activity index (DAI), histological evaluations, and biochemical alterations. Rats orally administered DSS regularly developed clinical and macroscopic signs of colitis. Results: Due to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds (247.65 ± 2.69 mg EAG/g MS and 34.08 ± 0.53 mg EQt/g MS, respectively), AEUD markedly ameliorated DAI, ulcer scores, colon length shortening, colonic histopathological changes, and hematological and biochemical modifications. Taken together, AEUD treatment notably (p < 0.01) suppressed DSS-induced UC by reducing oxidative stress via lowering MDA/H2O2 production and stimulating the effect of enzyme antioxidants as well as attenuating inflammation by decreasing CRP levels by 79.5% between the DSS and DSS + AEUD-50 groups compared to the MESA group (75.6%). Conclusions: AEUD was sufficient to exert a coloprotective effect that might be influenced by its bioactive compounds' anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatma Arrari
- Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Ressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 382-9000, Tunisia; (N.D.); (K.R.)
| | | | - Hichem Sebai
- Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Ressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 382-9000, Tunisia; (N.D.); (K.R.)
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Skalska-Kamińska A, Wójciak W, Żuk M, Paduch R, Wójciak M. Protective Effect of Urtica dioica Extract against Oxidative Stress in Human Skin Fibroblasts. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2182. [PMID: 38004322 PMCID: PMC10672499 DOI: 10.3390/life13112182] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Urtica dioica is a species with well-established significance in folk medicine in many countries. It was utilized to support the treatment of arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract disorders; however, the substantial presence of antioxidants suggests that nettle extract could also have a positive impact on the skin. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of nettle extract on human skin fibroblasts subjected to oxidative stress. Various solvents were tested to prepare an extract rich in polyphenolic compounds with high antioxidant potential. The chemical composition was determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-MS). H2O2 treatment was used to induce oxidative stress and cell viability, and the metabolism was evaluated through NR and MTT assays. Our study demonstrated that extraction with 80% ethanol, followed by the drying and re-dissolving of the extract in pure water, was more efficient than direct extraction with water. This yielded an extract rich in polyphenolic compounds, with chlorogenic acid and caffeoylmalic acid as the predominant compounds, averaging 64.9 and 114.4 µg/mL, respectively. The extract exhibited antioxidant properties in the DPPH and ABTS assays. Furthermore, it did not exhibit cytotoxicity and did not negatively affect cell metabolism. In addition, it effectively reduced ROS in the H2O2-stimulated cells, and at the highest concentration tested, the ROS levels returned to those of the untreated control. The extract also protected against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity. The cell viability was maintained at the level of the untreated control when the cells were pretreated with the extract before H2O2 exposure. These findings indicate that U. dioica extract is a valuable and safe additive in skincare products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Skalska-Kamińska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (W.W.); (M.Ż.)
| | - Weronika Wójciak
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (W.W.); (M.Ż.)
| | - Magdalena Żuk
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (W.W.); (M.Ż.)
| | - Roman Paduch
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, 19 Akademicka Street, 20-033 Lublin, Poland;
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Chmielna 1, 20-079 Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wójciak
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (W.W.); (M.Ż.)
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11
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Li A, La M, Wang H, Zhao J, Wang Y, Mian R, He F, Wang Y, Yang T, Zou D. Target-Guided Isolation and Purification of Antioxidants from Urtica laetevirens Maxim. by HSCCC Combined with Online DPPH-HPLC Analysis. Molecules 2023; 28:7332. [PMID: 37959752 PMCID: PMC10650309 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28217332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Urtica laetevirens Maxim. is used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for its potent antioxidative properties. In this study, three antioxidants were purified from U. laetevirens. using HSCCC guided by online DPPH-HPLC analysis. Firstly, the online DPPH-HPLC analysis was performed to profile out the antioxidant active molecules in U. laetevirens. The ultrasonic-assisted extraction conditions were optimized by response surface methodology and the results showed the targeted antioxidant active molecules could be well enriched under the optimized extraction conditions. Then, the antioxidant active molecules were separated by high-speed countercurrent chromatography ethyl acetate/n-butanol/water (2:3:5, v/v/v) as the solvent system. Finally, the three targets including 16.8 mg of Isovitexin, 9.8 mg of Isoorientin, and 26.7 mg of Apigenin-6,8-di-C-β-d-glucopyranoside were obtained from 100 mg of sample. Their structures were identified by 1H NMR spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijing Li
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Mencuo La
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Huichun Wang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Jianzhong Zhao
- Agricultural and Rural Science and Technology Guidance Development Service Center of Qinghai Province, Xining 810008, China;
| | - Yao Wang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Ruisha Mian
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Fangfang He
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Yuhan Wang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tingqin Yang
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
| | - Denglang Zou
- School of Life Science, Qinghai Normal University, Xining 810008, China; (A.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.); (R.M.); (F.H.); (Y.W.); (T.Y.)
- Agricultural and Rural Science and Technology Guidance Development Service Center of Qinghai Province, Xining 810008, China;
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Bougueroua K, Boufadi MY, Latreche B, Celik I, Guerrero Gonzalez M, Doubbi Bounoua A, Bouras S, Eissa A, Zoeir A. Effects of algerian nettle ( Urtica dioica L.) on benign prostatic hyperplasia and their mechanism of action elucidation: in vivo and in silico approaches. Nat Prod Res 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37867291 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2272283] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of Urtica dioica roots etheric extract (UDEE) on oxidative stress, and urine obstruction with histopathological examinations of prostatic and renal tissues,and suggests computational methods as a complementary method, to make a hypothesis on the overall effect of UDEE in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was utilised to characterise UDEE.BPH was induced in rats through daily subcutaneous injections of testosterone propionate. Rats were also orally administered UDEE or a vehicle. After four weeks, prostate weight, urine output, and biochemical markers were evaluated. UDEE treatment demonstrated significant regression of prostatic enlargement, improved biochemical and histopathological characteristics, and regulation of antioxidant activity levels. Phytosteroids stand out, act by inhibiting 5α-reductase and aromatase. This study provides an insight into treatment of BPH, demonstrating safety of this compound towards the kidney compared to finasteride without severe side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Bougueroua
- Laboratory of Bioeconomics, Food Safety and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, University of Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - Mokhtaria Yasmina Boufadi
- Laboratory of Bioeconomics, Food Safety and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, University of Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Libre University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Batoul Latreche
- Department of Anatomical Pathologies, BeniMessous Hospital, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Ismail Celik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Miguel Guerrero Gonzalez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas-Instituto Politécnico Nacional. Carpio & Plan de Ayala S/N, Colonia Santo Tomás, México City, México
| | - Amina Doubbi Bounoua
- Laboratory of Bioeconomics, Food Safety and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, University of Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - Samir Bouras
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Ferhat Abbas University, Setif, Algeria
| | - Ahmed Eissa
- Urology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Zoeir
- Urology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Zhang Y, Zhang X, Zafar MH, Zhang J, Wang J, Yu X, Liu W, Wang M. Research progress in physiological effects of resistant substances of Urtica dioica L. on animal performance and feed conversion. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1164363. [PMID: 37448866 PMCID: PMC10336547 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1164363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Several members of family Urticaceae are mainly found in the temperate and subtropical zones of the Northern Hemisphere and are important medicinal plants. Among them, Urtica dioica L. (Urticaceae) is an annual or perennial herb that has been used for feeding and medicinal purposes since long time and is the most exploited species of Urticaceae. Recently, it has received attention to be used as animal feed, as its fresh leaves fed to animals in moderate, dried, and other forms. This review details the advantages of U. dioica as an alternative feed in terms of germplasm specificity, nutritional composition, and feed application status. Its roots, stems, leaves, and seeds are rich in active ingredients. It has also been found to have anticancer effects through antioxidant action and promotion of apoptosis of cancer cells. In shady conditions, U. dioica is highly adaptable while under stressful conditions of drought; it also reduces light absorption and ensures carbon assimilation through light energy conversion efficiency. Therefore, it can be added to animal diets as a suitable feed to reduce costs and improve economic efficiency. This paper investigates the feasibility of using U. dioica as a feed and systematically presents the progress of research and exploitation of U. dioica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation, Shihezi, China
| | - Muhammad Hammad Zafar
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jinying Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jiasheng Wang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Yu
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wujun Liu
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Mengzhi Wang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation, Shihezi, China
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Teixeira J, Nunes P, Outor-Monteiro D, Mourão JL, Alves A, Pinheiro V. Effects of Urtica urens in the Feed of Broilers on Performances, Digestibility, Carcass Characteristics and Blood Parameters. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2092. [PMID: 37443890 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
With the aim of improving animal health and productivity, plants or plant extracts that have antimicrobial, antifungal and antioxidant properties are often used in studies with broilers. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of Urtica urens in broilers. Ninety male Ross chicks were used, randomly placed in 30 pens (three broilers per pen). The broilers were assigned to three treatment groups: group CT (control) received a basal diet; group UU1 received a basal diet with 1% dried Urtica urens; and group UU2 received a basal diet with 2% dried Urtica urens. Each treatment consisted of two feeds, distributed from day 1 to 15 (starter) and from day 15 to 36 (grower). As a result of this study, broilers in the UU1 treatment group had higher weight on day 15 (p = 0.029) and day 36 (p = 0.014) than those in treatments CT and UU2 and a higher daily weight gain between days 1 and 15 (p = 0.028) and days 1 and 36 (p = 0.014). Broilers in the UU1 and UU2 groups had lower serum HDL cholesterol (88.8 and 88.9 mg/dL, respectively) than the CT (96.1 mg/dL). In conclusion, the use of dried Urtica urens at 1% as an additive in broiler diets may affect growth performance and blood HDL cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Teixeira
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Pedro Nunes
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Divanildo Outor-Monteiro
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Al4Animals, Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - José Luís Mourão
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Al4Animals, Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Anabela Alves
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department Veterinary Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Victor Pinheiro
- Department Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
- Al4Animals, Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000 Vila Real, Portugal
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15
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Nafeh G, Abi Akl M, Samarani J, Bahous R, Al Kari G, Younes M, Sarkis R, Rizk S. Urtica dioica Leaf Infusion Enhances the Sensitivity of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells to Cisplatin Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:780. [PMID: 37375728 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060780] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Urtica dioica (UD) has been widely used in traditional medicine due to its therapeutic benefits, including its anticancer effects. Natural compounds have a promising potential when used in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs. The present study explores the anticancer and anti-proliferative properties of UD tea in combination with cisplatin on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in vitro. To elucidate the effect of this combination, a cell viability assay, Annexin V/PI dual staining, cell death ELISA, and Western blots were performed. The results showed that the combination of UD and cisplatin significantly decreased the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner compared to each treatment alone. This was accompanied by an increase in two major hallmarks of apoptosis, the flipping of phosphatidylserine to the outer membrane leaflet and DNA fragmentation, as revealed by Annexin V/PI staining and cell death ELISA, respectively. DNA damage was also validated by the upregulation of the cleaved PARP protein as revealed by Western blot analysis. Finally, the increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio further supported the apoptotic mechanism of death induced by this combination. Thus, a leaf infusion of Urtica dioica enhanced the sensitivity of an aggressive breast cancer cell line to cisplatin via the activation of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Nafeh
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Maria Abi Akl
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Jad Samarani
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Rawane Bahous
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Georges Al Kari
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Maria Younes
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Rita Sarkis
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
- Laboratory of Regenerative Hematopoiesis, Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC) & Institute of Bioengineering (IBI), School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Rizk
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
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Semwal P, Rauf A, Olatunde A, Singh P, Zaky MY, Islam MM, Khalil AA, Aljohani ASM, Al Abdulmonem W, Ribaudo G. The medicinal chemistry of Urtica dioica L.: from preliminary evidence to clinical studies supporting its neuroprotective activity. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2023; 13:16. [PMID: 37171512 PMCID: PMC10176313 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-023-00380-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Urtica dioica is a perennial herb from the family of Urticaceae that is commonly known as stinging nettle. This plant is widespread in Europe, Africa, America, and a part of Asia, as it adapts to different environments and climatic conditions. The leaves, stalk, and bark of U. dioica found applications in the field of nutrition, cosmetics, textile, pest control and pharmacology. In this connection, bioactive chemical constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, amino acids, carotenoids, and fatty acids have been isolated from the plant. With this review, we aim at providing an updated and comprehensive overview of the contributions in literature reporting computational, in vitro, pre-clinical and clinical data supporting the therapeutic applications of U. dioica. Experimental evidence shows that U. dioica constituents and extracts can provide neuroprotective effects by acting through a combination of different molecular mechanisms, that are discussed in the review. These findings could lay the basis for the identification and design of more effective tools against neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhakar Semwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, 566/6 Bell Road, Clement Town, Dehra Dun, India.
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Swabi, Pakistan.
| | - Ahmed Olatunde
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Pooja Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, 566/6 Bell Road, Clement Town, Dehra Dun, India
| | - Mohamed Y Zaky
- Molecular Physiology Division, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
- Oncology Division, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Md Mozahidul Islam
- Department of Environmental Management, SESM, Independent University, Bangladesh, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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Karimi FZ, Nazari N, Rakhshandeh H, Mazloum SR. The effect of nettle vaginal cream on subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 285:41-45. [PMID: 37044017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Vaginal atrophy is a condition where the vaginal epithelium gets thinner and includes symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, dyspareunia, and sexual problems. Hormone therapy is associated with some problems and some women prefer herbal medicine to reduce vaginal atrophy. Considering the phytoestrogenic compounds present in the nettle, this study aimed to investigate the effect of the nettle vaginal cream on subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. MATERIALS AND METHODS This triple-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial study was conducted on 84 eligible postmenopausal women aged 45-60 years, who referred to comprehensive health service centers in Aliabad Katul in 2021-2022. Women eligible for the study received 5% nettle vaginal cream and placebo for 8 weeks. Subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy were assessed before, four and eight weeks after the intervention. Data collection tools included a checklist for research unit selection, individual and midwifery characteristics questionnaire, vaginal assessment scale (VAS), vaginal pH, laboratory results of the vaginal maturation value (VMV). Data analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 21) and independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, Two-way analysis of variance and analysis of covariance. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy decreased significantly after the intervention compared to before the intervention in both the nettle and placebo groups (p < 0.001), but in the comparison between groups four weeks and eight weeks after the intervention, the subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy in nettle group decreased significantly (p < 0.001). In the nettle group, the scores of vaginal burning, vaginal dryness, vaginal itching and dyspareunia significantly improved after the intervention compared to before the intervention (p < 0.001). Also, in the nettle group compared to the placebo group, after the intervention, vaginal burning and vaginal dryness score (p < 0.001) and vaginal itching score (0.004) improved significantly. CONCLUSION Based on the results of the present study, Nettle vaginal cream reduced subjective symptoms of vaginal atrophy, including vaginal burning, vaginal dryness, vaginal itching, and dyspareunia in postmenopausal women, so it is a cost-effective, available and do not have the side effects product that can be useful for menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Zahra Karimi
- Department of Midwifery, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University Medical of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nahid Nazari
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Hassan Rakhshandeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Medicinal Plants Pharmacological Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Mazloum
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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18
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Shamsi M, Ganji A, Mosayebi G, Amirhoseiny ES, Shohani S, Ghazavi A. Chamomile and Urtica dioica extracts improve immunological and histological alterations associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome in DHEA -induced mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:102. [PMID: 37013510 PMCID: PMC10069098 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-03936-7] [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: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the novel mechanisms in the pathogenesis of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is low-grade chronic inflammation. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.) and Nettle (Urtica dioica), with phytoestrogenic and antioxidant properties, are traditionally used to treat gynecological diseases. This study investigated the immune-modulating effects of these two plants. METHODS Following the induction of PCOS by subcutaneous injection (SC) of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in BALB / C mice. Mice were treated in five groups: Sham, PCOS, PCOS + Chamomile, PCOS + Nettle, and PCOS + Chamomile and Nettle for 21 days. Ovarian morphology, blood antioxidant capacity, the abundance of Treg cells, and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß), cyclooxygenase-2 genes (COX-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured. RESULTS Folliculogenesis, Cystic follicles, and corpus luteum improved in the treatment groups (P < 0. 05). Treg cells in the DHEA group were significantly reduced compared to the Sham group (P < 0. 01). However, this decrease was not corrected in treatment groups (P > 0. 05). Total serum antioxidant capacity was significantly increased in the treatment group of Nettle and Chamomile + Nettle (P < 0. 05). The expression of MMP9 and TGFβ genes in the PCOS group was significantly higher than the Sham group (P < 0. 05), which the expression of MMP9 was corrected by treatment with Chamomile + Nettle extract (P < 0. 05). CONCLUSION Chamomile and Nettle extract may be an effective supplement in improving the histological and immunological changes of PCOS. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Shamsi
- MSc in Histology and Embryology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Ali Ganji
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Ghasem Mosayebi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center (TCMRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Ensieh Seif Amirhoseiny
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Sepideh Shohani
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Ali Ghazavi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center (TCMRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
- Infectious Diseases Research Center (IDRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
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Intraspecific Variability of Stinging Nettle ( Urtica dioica L.). Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031505. [PMID: 36771171 PMCID: PMC9921046 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031505] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the work was to determine the intraspecific variability of the stinging nettle, in respect of the mass of leaves and their chemical composition, including the content of phenolic compounds and assimilative pigments. The objects of the study were 10 populations of nettle, originating from the eastern and southern part of Poland. The results obtained indicate a high level of variability between and within the populations investigated but not strictly related to their geographical locations. The mass of the leaves ranged from 0.19 to 0.28 kg dry weight (DW)/plant (Coefficient of variation (CV) = 16.33%). Using HPLC-DAD, four phenolic acids were detected, i.e., caffeoylmalic (570.97-1367.40 mg/100 g DW), chlorogenic (352.79-1070.83 mg/100 g DW), neochlorogenic (114.56-284.77 mg/100 g DW) and cichoric (58.31-189.52 mg/100 g DW) acids, with the last one differentiating populations to the highest degree (CV = 48.83%). All of the analyzed populations met the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph Eur 10th) concerning the minimum content of caffeoylmalic and chlorogenic acids in nettle leaves (not less than 0.3%). Within the flavonoid fraction, two compounds were identified, namely rutoside (917.05-1937.43 mg/100 g DW, CV = 21.32%) and hyperoside (42.01-289.45 mg/100 g DW; CV = 55.26%). The level of chlorophyll a ranged from 3.82 to 4.49 mg/g DW, chlorophyll b from 1.59 to 2.19 mg/g DW, while the content of carotenoids varied from 2.34 to 2.60 mg/100 g DW. Given all the traits investigated, the level of a population's polymorphism (CV) was visibly higher within a population than between populations. Population no. 4 was distinguished by the highest mass of leaves, and the highest content of rutoside, while population no. 2 was distinguished by the highest content of hyperoside, caffeoylmalic and chlorogenic acid.
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Huang R, Chen Y, Ma C, Chai Y, Jia S, Zhang F. Potential factors causing failure of whole plant nettle ( Urtica cannabina) silages. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1113050. [PMID: 36713207 PMCID: PMC9876617 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1113050] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nettle is kind of new feed resources and benefit for animal production. However, a few studies observed that quality of nettle silage was poor under naturally fermentation. Consider of microbial activity was the mainly factors for fermentation characteristics of silage. Methods Thus, the present study investigated the potential factors causing nettle silage failure through metabolome and bacterial community composition analyses during ensiling. Results During ensiling, the pH was >6.22, and water-soluble carbohydrate and organic acid contents stabilized after 7 d. At the genus level, Enterococcus, Weissella, and Pediococcus were the dominant bacteria (relative abundance were 30.06-39.39, 17.29-23.34, and 3.13-7.22%, respectively), with stable trends, whereas Lactococcus and Enterobacter relative abundance decreased significantly over time (relative abundance were 5.68-13.96 and 3.86-24.1%, respectively). Lactobacillus relative abundance was <1% during the entire ensiling period, and malic acid metabolic pathway was the most important pathway. Enterococcus, Pediococcus, and Weissella were negatively correlated with malic acid, with Lactobacillus displaying an opposite trend. Discussion The results suggested that Lactobacillus activity was the lowest among lactic acid bacteria (LAB) during ensiling, which is the main reason for nettle ensiling failure, and attributable to a low capacity to compete for fermentation substrates such as malic acid against other LAB during ensiling. Additionally, anti-bacteria activity of nettle probably inhibited Enterobacter activity during ensiling. Present study probably given a solution for improve nettle silage quality through addition with malic acid.
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Antioxidant Activity of Urtica dioica: An Important Property Contributing to Multiple Biological Activities. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11122494. [PMID: 36552702 PMCID: PMC9774934 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11122494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Urtica dioica (UD) is a multi-functional plant known to be used as both food and medicine from ancient times. The plant has the potential to be used as a fertilizer and for biological pest control. It is also used in textile and related industries for its quality fibers. In the recent past, the plant has received great attention for its numerous important biological activities and food applications. The antioxidant activity of UD is the crucial factor supporting its important biological activities, such as anticancer, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant activity of UD is also found to be protective in different organs, including the brain, liver, lungs, kidney, ovary, and uterus, and may also be protective against diseases associated with these organs. Few clinical studies have endorsed the antioxidant potential of UD in patients. The current work is an attempt to comprehensively compile and discuss the antioxidant activity of UD from in vitro, in vivo and human studies. The insights of the current study would be helpful in getting a panoramic view of the antioxidant potential of UD, and provide direction for optimizing and developing it for therapeutic applications against important diseases and conditions in the near future.
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22
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Yousuf S, Shabir S, Kauts S, Minocha T, Obaid AA, Khan AA, Mujalli A, Jamous YF, Almaghrabi S, Baothman BK, Hjazi A, Singh SK, Vamanu E, Singh MP. Appraisal of the Antioxidant Activity, Polyphenolic Content, and Characterization of Selected Himalayan Herbs: Anti-Proliferative Potential in HepG2 Cells. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27238629. [PMID: 36500720 PMCID: PMC9735473 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural antioxidants derived from plants have played a vital role in preventing a wide range of human chronic conditions and provide novel bioactive leads for investigators in pharmacotherapy discovery. This work was designed to examine the ethnopharmacological role of Urtica dioica (UD), Capsella bursa-pastoris (CBP), and Inula racemosa (IR). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC) were illustrated through colorimetric assays, while the antioxidant activity was investigated through DPPH and ABTS assays. The evaluation of phytochemicals by FT-IR of UD and CBP revealed high contents of aliphatic amines, while IR showed a major peak for ketones. The antioxidant activity, TPC and TFC were highest in the ethanol extract of UD, followed by CBP, and IR showed the lowest activity. All of the extracts revealed significant antioxidant capacities along a dosage gradient. Through a HPLC analysis at a wavelength of 280 nm, UD leaves demonstrated an intense peak of quercetin, and the peak for rutin was less intense. CBP (whole plant), instead, demonstrated a major yield of rutin, and a peak for quercetin was not observed in CBP. IR (rhizomes) showed both quercetin and rutin. All of the extracts were significantly cytotoxic to HepG2 cells after 48 h with the trend IR > UD > CBP. The outcomes of this study may be effective in the selection of specific plants as realistic sources of the bioactive components that might be useful in the nutraceutical progression and other biomedical efficacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumaira Yousuf
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Shabnam Shabir
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Simran Kauts
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Tarun Minocha
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Ahmad A. Obaid
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anmar A. Khan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Mujalli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yahya F. Jamous
- National Center of Vaccines and Bio Processing, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 12354, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Almaghrabi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Innovations in Personalized Medicine (CIPM), King Abdulaziz University, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bandar K. Baothman
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Ab dulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sandeep K. Singh
- Indian Scientific Education and Technology Foundation, Lucknow 226002, India
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Emanuel Vamanu
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Mahendra P. Singh
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
- Department of Zoology, DDU Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur 273009, India
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
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23
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Synthesis of Green Engineered Silver Nanoparticles through Urtica dioica: An Inhibition of Microbes and Alleviation of Cellular and Organismal Toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11121690. [PMID: 36551347 PMCID: PMC9774676 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11121690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant fractions have a diversity of biomolecules that can be used to make complicated reactions for the bioactive fabrication of metal nanoparticles (NPs), in addition to being beneficial as antioxidant medications or dietary supplements. The current study shows that Urtica dioica (UD) and biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of UD have antibacterial and antioxidant properties against bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas putida) and Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon R+). According to their ability to scavenge free radicals, DPPH, ABTS, TFC, and TPC initially estimated the antioxidant potential of UD and UD AgNPs. The fabricated AgNPs were analyzed (UV−Vis, FTIR, EDS, and SEM) to determine the functional groups (alcohol, carboxylic acids, phenol, proteins, and aldehydes) and to observe the shape (agglomerated crystalline and rod-shaped structure). The disc diffusion method was used to test the antimicrobial properties of synthesized Ag-NPs against E. coli and P. putida. For 24 to 120 h, newly enclosed flies and third instar larvae of Drosophila were treated with UD and UD AgNPs. After exposure, tests for biochemical effects (acetylcholinesterase inhibition and protein estimation assays), cytotoxicity (dye exclusion), and behavioral effects (jumping and climbing assays) were conducted. The results showed that nanoparticles were found to have potent antimicrobial activity against all microbial strains tested at various concentrations. In this regard, ethno-medicinal characteristics exhibit a similar impact in D. melanogaster, showing (p < 0.05) significantly decreased cellular toxicity (trypan blue dye), enhanced biochemical markers (AChE efficacy and proteotoxicity), and improved behavioral patterns in the organism treated with UD AgNPs, especially in comparison to UD extract. The results of this study may help in the utilization of specific plants as reliable sources of natural antioxidants that may have been beneficial in the synthesis of metallic NPs, which aids in the production of nanomedicine and other therapeutic applications.
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Shabir S, Yousuf S, Singh SK, Vamanu E, Singh MP. Ethnopharmacological Effects of Urtica dioica, Matricaria chamomilla, and Murraya koenigii on Rotenone-Exposed D. melanogaster: An Attenuation of Cellular, Biochemical, and Organismal Markers. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081623. [PMID: 36009342 PMCID: PMC9405140 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural antioxidants derived from plants have been proven to have significant inhibitory effects on the free radicals of living organisms during actively metabolization. Excessive production of free radicals increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and motor sclerosis. This study aimed to compare the ethnopharmacological effects of Urtica dioica (UD), Matricaria chamomilla (MC), and Murraya koenigii (MK) on the amelioration of rotenone-induced toxicity in wild-type Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon R+) at biochemical, cellular, and behavioral levels. Phytoextracts were prepared from all three plants, i.e., UD, MC, and MK (aqueous and ethanolic fractions), and their bioactive compounds were evaluated using in vitro biochemical parameters (DPPH, ABTS, TPC, and TFC), UV-Vis, followed by FT-IR and HPLC. Third instar larvae and freshly eclosed flies were treated with 500 µM rotenone alone or in combination with UD, MC, and MK for 24 to 120 h. Following exposure, cytotoxicity (dye exclusion test), biochemical (protein estimation and acetylcholinesterase inhibition assays), and behavioral assays (climbing and jumping assays) were performed. Among all three plant extracts, MK exhibited the highest antioxidant properties due to the highest TPC, TFC, DPPH, and ABTS, followed by UD, then MC. The overall trend was MK > UD > MC. In this context, ethnopharmacological properties mimic the same effect in Drosophila, exhibiting significantly (p < 0.05) reduced cytotoxicity (trypan blue), improved biochemical parameters (proteotoxicity and AChE activity), and better behavioral parameters in the organisms cotreated with phyto extracts compared with rotenone. Conclusively, UV-Vis, FTIR, and HPLC analyses differentiated the plant extracts. The findings of this research may be beneficial in the use of select herbs as viable sources of phyto-ingredients that could be of interest in nutraceutical development and various clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Shabir
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Sumaira Yousuf
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar Singh
- Indian Scientific Education and Technology Foundation, Lucknow 226002, India
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Emanuel Vamanu
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Mahendra P. Singh
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India
- Correspondence: (S.K.S.); (E.V.); (M.P.S.)
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Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.): Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Food Functional Properties. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27165219. [PMID: 36014458 PMCID: PMC9413031 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L., Urticaceae) is commonly found in Asia, Africa, and Europe and has a long history of being used as food and traditional medicine. Recently, this plant is gaining attention as a highly nutritious food, where fresh leaves are dried and used as powder or in other forms. Leaves are rich in many bioactive compounds. This review aims to cover the traditional uses in food and medicine, as well as its nutritional composition, including its bioactive chemical constituents and reported food functional activities. Various bioactive chemical constituents have been isolated from stinging nettle to date, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, amino acid, carotenoids, and fatty acids. Stinging nettle extracts and its compounds, such as rutin, kaempferol, and vitamin A, are also used for their nutritional properties and as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents. Future studies should focus on the proper formulation and stability testing of the functional foods containing stinging nettle and their detailed activities in clinical studies.
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