The anti-tumor effects of alkaloids from the seeds of Strychnos nux-vomica on HepG2 cells and its possible mechanism

Brucine Entrapped Titanium Oxide Nanoparticle for Anticancer Treatment: An In Vitro Study

Backgroundand Objective. The public's health has been seriously threatened by cervical cancer during recent times. In terms of newly diagnosed cases worldwide, it ranks as the ninth most prevalent malignancy. Multiple investigations have proven that nanoparticles can effectively combat cancer due to their small dimensions and extensive surface area. In the meantime, bioactive compounds which are biocompatible are being loaded onto nanoparticles to promote cancer therapy. The current study investigates the anticancerous potential of Brucine-entrapped titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in cervical cancer cell line (HeLa). Materials and Methods. The physiochemical, structural, and morphological aspects of Brucine-entrapped TiO2 NPs were evaluated by UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX). The cytotoxic effect against the HeLa cell line was assessed using a tetrazolium-based colorimetric assay (MTT), a trypan blue exclusion (TBE) assay, phase contrast microscopic analysis, and a fluorescence assay including ROS and DAPI staining. Furthermore, estimation of antioxidant markers includes catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Results. The UV spectrum at 266 nm revealed the formation of TiO NPs. The FT-IR peaks confirmed the effective entrapment of brucine with TiO2 NPs. The average size (100.0 nm) of Brucine-entrapped TiO2 NPs was revealed in DLS analysis. The micrograph of the SEM revealed the formation of ellipsoidal to tetragonal-shaped NPs. The Ti, O, and C signals were observed in EDAX. In MTT assay, Brucine-entrapped TiO2 NPs showed inhibition of cell proliferation in a dose-wise manner and IC50 was noticed at the concentration of 30 µg/mL. The percentage of viable cells gradually reduced in the trypan blue exclusion assay. The phase contrast microscopic analysis of Brucine-entrapped TiO2 NP-treated cells showed cell shrinkage, cell wall deterioration, and cell blebbing. The intracellular ROS level was increased in a dose-wise manner when compared to control cells in ROS staining. The condensed nuclei and apoptotic cells were increased in treated cells, as noted in DAPI staining. In treated cells, the antioxidant markers such as CAT, GSH, and SOD levels were substantially lower compared to the control cells. Conclusion. The synthesized Brucine entrapped TiO2 NPs exhibited remarkable anticancer activity against the HeLa cell line.

Systematic pharmacology-based strategy to explore the mechanism of Semen Strychni for treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma

The aim of the study was to investigated the mechanism of Strychnos nux-vomica L. (Semen Strychni, SS) against papillary carcinoma thyroid (PTC) by combined of network pharmacology and experimental verification. By searching the TCMSP, SEA and SwissTarget Prediction database, the main active ingredients and related targets were obtained. Utilizing Venny 2.1.0 String database and Cytoscape 3.7.2 to screened the intersection target and constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) network diagram. Using R 4.0.4 software carried out the enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG. HPLC was carried out using LC-20A modular HPLC system to identify the bioactive compound brucine present in SS. Molecular docking was performed using Discovery 2019 software. The inhibition rate was detected by CCK8 method. Western blot was used to detect the expression levels of brucine anti-PTC related pathway proteins. 14 active components were screened out, of which 4 main components showed tight relationship with PTC. SS may play the anti-PTC role by acting on two main pathways (TNF signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway) and mediating various biological functions. HPLC analysis revealed that brucine was a suitable marker for standardization of the SS. 4 active components exhibit strong binding energy with core protein. Brucine could significantly reduce the activity of BCPAP cells compared with isobrucine, stigmasterol, (+)-catechin. Brucine may reduce the protein expression levels of IL-6, VEGFA, JUN, TP53, 1L1B, PTGS2, BCL2, CASP3, CASP8, and CASP9 while increase the protein expression levels of BAD, cleaved-CASP3, cleaved-CASP8, and cleaved-CASP9 in BCPAP cells, respectively. The active components of SS against PTC mainly include isobrucine, stigmasterol, (+)-catechin, brucine. Among them, brucine exhibits the strongest anti-PTC activity in BCPAP cells, which may reduce the PTC-related protein expression levels. Therefore, SS may exhibits the anti-PTC activities through multiple targets and pathways.

Formulation of Transliposomal Nanocarrier Gel Containing Strychnine for the Effective Management of Skin Cancer

Strychnine (STCN) has demonstrated an exceptional anticancer effect against various cancers. However, the STCN clinical utility has been hampered by its low water solubility, restricted therapeutic window, short half-life, and significant toxicity. The objective of this investigation was to design and optimize a formulation of strychnine-loaded transliposomes (STCN-TLs) for dermal administration of STCN to treat skin cancer. The formulations of STCN-TL were examined in terms of vesicle size (VS), polydispersity index (PDI), entrapment efficiency (EE), and in vitro delivery. The improved STCN-TL formulation exhibited VS, PDI, EE, and in vitro delivery of 101.5 ± 2.14 nm, 0.218 ± 0.12, 81.74 ± 1.43%, and 85.39 ± 2.33%, respectively. In an ex vivo penetration, the created STCN-TL formulation demonstrated a 2.5-fold increase in permeability compared to the STCN solution. CLSM pictures of skin (rat) revealed that the rhodamine B-loaded transliposome preparation penetrated deeper than the rhodamine B hydroalcoholic mixture. Additionally, rat skin managed with STCN-TL nanogel exhibited a significant increase in Cskin max and AUC0-8 compared to rat skin treated with traditional STCN gel. The findings demonstrated that the transliposome preparation might be a suitable nanocarrier for the cutaneous distribution of STCN in the amelioration of skin cancer.

A Combination of In Silico ADMET Prediction, In Vivo Toxicity Evaluation, and Potential Mechanism Exploration of Brucine and Brucine N-oxide-A Comparative Study

Brucine (BRU) and brucine N-oxide (BNO) are prominent, bioactive, and toxic alkaloids in crude and processed Semen Strychni. Studies have demonstrated that BRU and BNO possess comprehensive pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and analgesic. In this context, a comparative study of BRU and BNO was performed by combination analysis of in silico ADMET prediction, in vivo toxicity evaluation, and potential action mechanism exploration. ADMET prediction showed that BRU and BNO might induce liver injury, and BRU may have a stronger hepatoxic effect. The prediction was experimentally verified using the zebrafish model. The BRU-induced hepatotoxicity of zebrafish larvae had a dose-response relationship. The mechanism of BRU-induced hepatotoxicity might relate to phosphorylation, kinase activity, and signal transduction. By comparison, signal transduction and gap junctions might involve BNO-induced hepatotoxicity. Our results provided a better understanding of BRU- and BNO-induced hepatotoxicity. We also built a foundation to elucidate the material base of the hepatotoxicity of traditional Chinese medicine Semen Strychni.

Monoterpenoid indole alkaloids isolated from the stems and twigs of Strychnos cathayensis

Seven undescribed monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, two N(4)-chloromethylation artifacts, and 10 known alkaloids were isolated from the stems and twigs of Strychnos cathayensis. The corresponding structures were elucidated via spectroscopic data interpretation and electronic circular dichroism. The absolute configuration of (17S)-12-hydroxy-11-methoxydiaboline, the major anomer of 12-hydroxy-11-methoxydiaboline, was characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis for the first time. At an intraperitoneal dose of 30 mg/kg, 12-hydroxy-11-methoxy-N(4)-chloromethyldiaboline and (-)-macusine A exhibited potential analgesic effects with prolongation rates of 99% and 47% for the latency time of hind-paw licking, respectively, compared to the blank control. 12-Hydroxy-11-methoxydiaboline, 12-hydroxy-11-methoxydiaboline N(4)-oxide, retuline N-oxide, and (-)-vincosamide exhibited antiviral activity against Coxsackie virus B3 (CVB3) with IC₅₀ values of 33.33 μM.

Network toxicology and molecular docking analyses on strychnine indicate CHRM1 is a potential neurotoxic target

Background

Improper use of strychnine can cause death. The aim of this study was to identify and evaluate toxic mechanisms of action associated with active compounds in strychnine using a network toxicology approach, and explore potential pathogenic targets.

Methods

In the present study, strychnine target and central nervous system-related gene set were established using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and four disease gene databases (Genecards, OMIM, PharmGkb, TTD). An “ingredient-target” interactive active network map was constructed using Cytoscape software (version 3.8.0). Functional enrichment analysis was performed based on the hub genes. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed using STRING database. The pharmacokinetics (ADMET) properties of strychnine were evaluated using SwissADME tool. Molecular docking was performed using Autodock Vina to explore the interactions between the active compounds and the target protein.

Results

Five strychnine toxicity-related components and a gene set of 40 genes were obtained. GO and KEGG analyses showed that Strychnine acts on the central nervous system through G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway. Analysis of “ADMET” related parameters showed a high gastrointestinal tract absorption of (S)-stylopine and isobrucine and the compounds could cross the blood brain barrier. CHRM1 was selected as a key gene in strychnine toxicity. Molecular docking results showed that the co-crystalized ligands did not form hydrogen bond with CHRM1. (S)-stylopine had the highest binding affinity (binding energy = − 8.5 kcal/mol) compared with the other two compounds.

Conclusion

Network toxicology and molecular docking reveal the toxicity mechanisms of strychnine active compounds. The findings showed that CHRM1 is a potential neurotoxic target. (S)-stylopine showed stronger neurotoxic effect compared with the other ligands.

Study on the Potential Mechanism of Semen Strychni against Myasthenia Gravis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking with Experimental Verification

Background

Semen Strychni (SS) is an effective Chinese medicine formula for treating myasthenia gravis (MG) in clinics. Nonetheless, its molecular mechanism is largely unknown.

Objective

Using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation, we aim to identify the therapeutic effect of SS on MG and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

The main ingredients of SS and their targets and potential disease targets for MG were extracted from public databases. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING 11.0 database, and Cytoscape was used to identify the hub targets. In addition, Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to identify molecular biological processes and signaling pathways. Then, AutoDock Via conducted molecular docking. The experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) model in female Lewis rats, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were performed to confirm the effect and mechanism of SS on MG.

Results

The following active compounds and hub targets were identified by screening and analyzing: isobrucine, vomicine, (S)-stylopine, strychnine, brucine-N-oxide, brucine and AKT1, MAPK1, MAPK14, CHRM1, ACHE, and CHRNA4. KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the cholinergic synapse and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction signaling pathway may be necessary. The results of molecular docking revealed that the main active ingredients bind well to the hub targets. In vivo experiments proved that SS could improve the weight loss and Lennon scores in the EAMG model. Experiments in molecular biology showed that SS could treat MG by affecting the cholinergic synapse through the respective antibody, receptor, and key enzymes in the cholinergic pathway.

Conclusion

This study provided a preliminary overview of the active constituents, primary targets, and potential pathways of SS against MG. SS ameliorated EAMG by regulating the cholinergic synaptic junction.

Anti-cancer activities of Schedule E1 drugs used in ayurvedic formulations

Schedule E1 is an important part of Drugs and Cosmetics Act (Government of India) that comprises the list of poisonous drugs from plant, animal and mineral origins to be consumed under medical supervision. Ayurveda, the world's oldest medicinal system has a list of drugs represented in schedule E1 that are used since thousands of years. This review reports the anti-cancer activities of fifteen toxic ayurvedic drugs from plant origin represented in Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The information was collected from the various authentic sources, compiled and summarised. The plant extracts, formulations, phytoconstituents and other preparations of these drugs have shown effective activities against mammary carcinoma, neuroblastoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, lymphocytic leukaemia, colorectal adenocarcinoma, Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma asterocytoma and other malignancies. They have various mechanisms of action including Bax upregulation, Bcl₂ downregulation, induction of cell cycle arrest at S phase, G2/M phase, inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factors, inhibition of Akt/mTOR signalling etc. Certain traditional ayurvedic preparations containing these plants are reported beneficial and the possibilities of these drugs as the alternative and adjuvant therapeutic agents in the current cancer care have been discussed. The studies suggest that these drugs could be utilised in future for the critical care of malignancies.

Proximate analysis, HPTLC finger print analysis and multi spectrometric analysis of Strychnos nux-vomica nuts

BACKGROUND

In alternative medicine, plants pay a major role. Some plants are known for their poisonous nature but still have some importance in the herbal drug industry for their medicinal value. Strychnos nux-vomica is one such plant. Its nuts are called as poison nut due to the presence of alkaloids. Both the nut and its minerals are having medicinal properties and hence the present study was indented to understand the nature of primary metabolites and multi elemental composition.

METHODS

The nuts of S. nux-vomica were procured, authenticated, powdered and subjected to proximate analysis parameters, visualization of thin layer chromatographic separation (TLC) and finger print profiling through high performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC); surface morphology by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, powder X-ray diffractometry and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

RESULTS

In HPTLC, 7 spots each under 254 nm, 366 nm, derivatization with vanillin sulphuric acid (VSR) reagent appeared and 2 spots with Dragendorff's reagent. In HPTLC, 12 peaks at 254 nm, 9 peaks at 366 nm, 7 peaks at 520 nm after derivatization with VSR reagent detected. Elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, chlorine, aluminium, iron, manganese, sodium, nickel, phosphorus, copper, zinc, sulphur and silicon were identified. PXRD revealed that the presence of potassium chloride, calcite and dolomite as major elemental composition.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of all the above elements has vital roles on human physiology. Potassium, calcium, chlorine, aluminium, nickel, phosphorus, sulphur and silicon are reported for the first time in this study.

Plant-Based Indole Alkaloids: A Comprehensive Overview from a Pharmacological Perspective

Plant-based indole alkaloids are very rich in pharmacological activities, and the indole nucleus is considered to contribute greatly to these activities. This review's fundamental objective is to summarize the pharmacological potential of indole alkaloids that have been derived from plants and provide a detailed evaluation of their established pharmacological activities, which may contribute to identifying new lead compounds. The study was performed by searching various scientific databases, including Springer, Elsevier, ACS Publications, Taylor and Francis, Thieme, Wiley Online Library, ProQuest, MDPI, and online scientific books. A total of 100 indole compounds were identified and reviewed. The most active compounds possessed a variety of pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antimalarial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, analgesic, hypotensive, anticholinesterase, antiplatelet, antidiarrheal, spasmolytic, antileishmanial, lipid-lowering, antimycobacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Although some compounds have potent activity, some only have mild-to-moderate activity. The pharmacokinetic profiles of some of the identified compounds, such as brucine, mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, vindoline, and harmane, were also reviewed. Most of these compounds showed promising pharmacological activity. An in-depth pharmacological evaluation of these compounds should be performed to determine whether any of these indoles may serve as new leads.

Cognition and memory impairment attenuation via reduction of oxidative stress in acute and chronic mice models of epilepsy using antiepileptogenic Nux vomica

Ethnopharmacological relevance Processed Nux vomica seed extracts and homeopathic medicinal preparations (HMPs) are widely used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for respiratory, digestive, neurological and behavioral disorders. Antioxidant property of Nux vomica is well known and recent investigation has highlighted the anticonvulsant potential of its homeopathic formulation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic potential of Nux vomica HMPs (6CH, 12CH and 30CH potency) in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced acute and chronic experimental seizure models in mice and investigate their effects on cognition, memory, motor activity and oxidative stress markers in kindled animals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acute seizures were induced in the animals through 70 mg/kg (i.p.) administration of PTZ followed by the evaluation of latency and duration of Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS). Subconvulsive PTZ doses (35 mg/kg, i.p.) induced kindling in 29 days, which was followed by assessment of cognition, memory and motor impairment through validated behavioral techniques. The status of oxidative stress was estimated through measurement of MDA, GSH and SOD.

RESULTS

HMPs delayed the latency and reduced the duration of GTCS in acute model signifying possible regulation of GABAergic neurotransmission. Kindling was significantly hindered by the HMPs that justified the ameliorated cognition, memory and motor activity impairment. The HMPs attenuated lipid peroxidation by reducing MDA level and strengthened the antioxidant mechanism by enhancing the GSH and SOD levels in the kindled animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Nux vomica HMPs showed anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic potency in acute and chronic models of epilepsy. The test drugs attenuated behavioral impairment and reduced the oxidative stress against PTZ induced kindling owing to which they can be further explored for their cellular and molecular mechanism(s).

Direct preparation of unprotected aminimides (R3N+-NH-) from natural aliphatic tertiary alkaloids (R3N) by [Mn(TDCPP)Cl]-catalysed N-amination reaction

A panel of natural aliphatic tertiary alkaloids (R3N) were directly converted to R3N+-NH- (without the need to prepare protected aminimides R3N+-NR'- followed by deprotection) by [Mn(TDCPP)Cl]-catalysed N-amination reaction, with O-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)hydroxylamine as the nitrogen source, in up to 98% yields under mild reaction conditions.

Brucine: A Review of Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology

Brucine, a weak alkaline indole alkaloid, is one of the main bioactive and toxic constituents of Nux-vomica. Modern pharmacology studies and clinical practice demonstrate that brucine possesses wide pharmacological activities, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and the effects on cardiovascular system and nervous system, etc. However, its central nervous system toxicity severely limits its clinical application. Herein, the physicochemical properties, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of brucine were reviewed, and the novel strategies to address the toxicity issues were discussed, aiming to bring new insights into further research and application of this active component.

Supramolecular organisation of sulphate salt hydrates exemplified with brucine sulphate

The frequency of hydrate formation among organic sulphate salts is unravelled. Interconversion of the hydrates of brucine sulphate occurs with small changes in the relative humidity.

Gold nano particles synthesized from Strychni semen and its anticancer activity in cholangiocarcinoma cell (KMCH-1)

Nanotechnology has been materialized as a proficient technology for the development of anticancer nanoparticles all the way through an environment-friendly approach. Conventionally, nanoparticles have been assembled by dissimilar methods, but regrettably rely on the negative impact on the natural environment. Amalgamation of nanoparticles by means of plant extract is alternate conservative methods. In the present study, we equipped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) from Strychni semen; displayed as a less toxic and environment-friendly. Integration of AuNPs was famed by UV-absorbance which displays peak values. Moreover, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) substantiate the shape of the AuNPs in the combined materials. FTIR results exhibit the active molecules positioned in the flat surface of the AuNPs. Similarly, the anticancer effectiveness of AuNPs is considered in KMCH-1 cells. Also, AuNPs successfully aggravate cytotoxicity and apoptosis by conjugating apoptotic gene expressions in KMCH-1 cells. Eventually, our results confirm the synthesis of AuNPs from Strychni Semen shows anticancer effects with environment-friendly manner.

Brucine inhibits TNF-α-induced HFLS-RA cell proliferation by activating the JNK signaling pathway

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a diffuse connective tissue disease. Brucine selectively inhibits cell immunity, immune hypersensitivity and induces apoptosis. The current study aimed to investigate effects of brucine on human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (HFLS) of RA and to clarify associated molecular mechanisms. HFLS-RA were treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α prior to treatment with brucine at carrying concentrations. Cell Counting Kit-8 assays were performed to evaluate HFLS-RA proliferation. Western blot assays were employed to examine c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) expression and phosphorylation in TNF-α-induced HFLS-RA. An association between brucine treatment and JNK phosphorylation was assessed by employing a linear regression analysis. The results suggested that low doses of brucine (0.125 and 0.25 mg/ml) significantly reversed proliferation effects induced by TNF-α, however, final cell viabilities were increased compared with the untreated control (P>0.05 and P<0.05, respectively). High brucine doses (≥0.5 mg/ml) significantly reversed TNF-α-induced proliferation and further inhibited viability compared with the untreated control (P<0.05). Regarding JNK expression, there were no significant differences among the brucine treatment, and between the Control and the TNF-α groups (P>0.05). Brucine treatment significantly decreased JNK phosphorylation compared with the TNF-α group (P<0.05). JNK specific inhibitor, SP600125, significantly inhibited brucine-induced cell viability enhancement compared with the brucine-treated groups without inhibitor (P<0.05). A linear regression analysis suggested that brucine was associated with JNK phosphorylation in TNF-α-treated HFLS-RA. In conclusion, brucine significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced HFLS-RA proliferation by activating the JNK signaling pathway. Therefore, brucine may have potential clinical applications in the treatment of RA.

Nux Vomica Exposure Triggered Liver Injury and Metabolic Disturbance in Zebrafish Larvae

Zebrafish larvae were used to further understand the liver toxicity of nux vomica. The histopathology, protein expression, and gene expression were assessed to confirm apoptosis in the liver, and then, profiles of the metabolites in zebrafish were investigated by untargeted metabolomic assessment to understand the potential toxicity mechanism of nux vomica. Histopathological observations showed that nux vomica caused damage to liver cells. Western blot results indicated increased expression of activated caspase3, and the result of real-time polymerase chain reaction showed a significant increase in the expression level of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 genes (p < 0.05) compared with the control group. The liver injury from nux vomica was linked to the downregulation of amino acid (e.g., proline and alanine) and fatty acid (e.g., palmitoleic acid) metabolism and upregulation of some other fatty acid (e.g., arachidic acid) and purine (e.g., xanthine and uric acid) metabolism. The hepatotoxicity of nux vomica resulted from metabolic pathway disturbances, including small molecules involved in energy, purine, lipids, and amino acid metabolism.

Removal of hERG potassium channel affinity through introduction of an oxygen atom: Molecular insights from structure-activity relationships of strychnine and its analogs

Nux vomica has been effectively used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The processing of Nux vomica is necessary to reduce toxicity before it can be used in clinical practice. However, the mechanism for processing detoxification is unclear. hERG channels have been subjected to a routine test for compound cardiac toxicity in the drug development process. Therefore, we examined the effects and mechanisms of strychnine and brucine, two main ingredients of Nux vomica, and their N-oxides on hERG channels. Strychnine and brucine exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of hERG channels with IC₅₀ values of 25.9 μM and 44.18 μM, respectively. However, their nitrogen oxidative derivatives produced by processing of Nux vomica, strychnine N-oxide and brucine N-oxide, lost their activity on hERG channels. Compared to their parent compounds, only an oxygen atom was introduced in the nitrogen oxidative isoforms to compensate for the N⁺ - charge, suggesting that the protonated nitrogen is the key group for strychnine and brucine binding to hERG channel. Alanine-mutagenesis identified Y652 is the most important residue for strychnine and brucine binding to hERG channel. Y652A mutation increased the IC₅₀ for strychnine and brucine by 21.64-fold and 29.78-fold that of WT I_hERG, respectively. Docking simulations suggested that the protonated nitrogen of strychnine and brucine formed a cation-π interaction with the aromatic ring of Y652. This study suggests that introduction of an oxygen to compensate for the N⁺ - charge could be a useful strategy for reducing hERG potency and increasing the safety margin of alkaloid-type compounds in drug development.

Biochemical studies evaluating the chemopreventive potential of brucine in chemically induced mammary carcinogenesis of rats

The present study was aimed to investigate the dose dependent chemopreventive activity of brucine against 7, 12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene induced mammary gland tumorigenesis in rats. The mammary tumor was induced by a single dose of DMBA (25 mg/rat) injected subcutaneously near the mammary gland. We observed reduced body weight and increase in tumor incidence, the total number of tumors, and tumor volume in DMBA alone injected rats and also observed decreased antioxidant status (SOD, CAT, GPX, and GSH) and increased lipid peroxidation (TBARS and LOOH) in plasma and mammary tissues. Increased levels of CYP450, Cyt-b5 and decreased levels of phase II (GST and GR) biotransformation enzymes were noticed in the liver and mammary tissues. Further, increased levels of lipid profile (TC, TG, PL, and FFA) and lipoprotein (LDL and VLDL) were noticed. Whereas, decrease in the levels of HDL in plasma and decreased levels of PL and FFA in mammary tissues were observed. Oral administration of brucine in different doses (2, 4 and 8 mg/kg bw) inhibited the tumor incidence and restored the levels of biochemical markers near to normal in dose responsive manner. Biochemical findings are supported by histopathological studies. The results suggest that brucine at a dose of 8 mg/kg bw shows more significant chemopreventive activity in DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis.

Toxicological effects of Nux Vomica in rats urine and serum by means of clinical chemistry, histopathology and 1H NMR-based metabonomics approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The dried ripe seeds of Nux Vomica (Strychnos nux-vomica L.), a traditional Chinese medicine, have been used to treat multifarious symptoms. However, the clinical applications of Nux Vomica are limited by its severe toxicity. In this study, Nux Vomica was subjected to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabonomics and pathological examination to determine relevant biomarkers in target organs and to explain the underlying toxicity mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups of twelve rats. The control group was oral gavaged with distilled water, and two experiment groups were treated with Nux Vomica at a dose of 0.315 and 0.630g/kg body weight. On days 14 and 21, serum, urine, liver and kidney tissues were collected for histopathological examination, biochemical analysis and ¹H-NMR analysis.

RESULTS

The metabolites changes of rats treated with Nux Vomica are obviously differ from that of controls. In serum, low-dose group compared with control shows the significantly changes included elevated concentration of glucose, TMAO, and creatine, with decreased lipids, 3-HB, lactate, and unsaturated fatty acid. Change in taurine was only observed in the separation comparison of high-dose group and control. In urine, the variation metabolites included elevations in glucose, creatine, and TMAO as well as decreased lactate, succinate, α-ketoglutaric acid, citrate and hippurate in low-dose group compared with control. Only alanine and creatine were decreased significantly in high-dose group compared with control.

CONCLUSION

Nux Vomica induced disruptions in glycolysis, lipid and amino acid metabolism, and toxic effects were aggravated in liver and kidney tissues as dosing time was prolonged. ¹H NMR-based metabonomics combined with biochemical and histopathological methods can be applied to elucidate the toxicity mechanism of Nux Vomica decoction that caused liver and kidney injuries in rats.

Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicity of Strychnos nux-vomica L.: A Review

Strychnos nux-vomica L. belongs to the genus Strychnos of the family Loganiaceae and grows in Sri Lanka, India and Australia. The traditional medicinal component is its seed, called Nux vomica. This study provides a relevant and comprehensive review of S. nux-vomica L., including its botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology, thus providing a foundation for future studies. Up to the present day, over 84 compounds, including alkaloids, iridoid glycosides, flavonoid glycosides, triterpenoids, steroids and organic acids, among others, have been isolated and identified from S. nux-vomica. These compounds possess an array of biological activities, including effects on the nervous system, analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions, antitumor effects, inhibition of the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and regulation of immune function. Furthermore, toxicity and detoxification methods are preliminarily discussed toward the end of this review. In further research on S. nux-vomica, bioactivity-guided isolation strategies should be emphasized. Its antitumor effects should be investigated further and in vivo animal experiments should be performed alongside in vitro testing. The pharmacological activity and toxicology of strychnine [Formula: see text]-oxide and brucine [Formula: see text]-oxide should be studied to explore the detoxification mechanism associated with processing more deeply.

Structural Characterization and In Vitro Antitumor Activity of a Novel Exopolysaccharide from Lachnum YM130

Exopolysaccharide of Lachnum YM130 (LEP) was purified by diethylaminoethyl cellulose 52 and Sepharose CL-6B column chromatography. LEP-2a was identified to be a homogeneous component with an average molecular weight of 1.31 × 10⁶ Da, which was consisted of mannose and galactose in a molar ratio of 3.8:1.0. The structure of LEP-2a was characterized by methylation analysis, FT-IR analysis, and NMR analysis. Results indicated that LEP-2a was a galactomannan with a backbone, composed of 1,2-linked-α-D-Manp, 1,2,6-linked-α-D-Manp, 1,3,4-linked-α-D-Manp, and 1,3-linked-β-D-Galp, which was substituted at O-2, O-3, O-4, and O-6 by branches. In vitro antitumor activity assay proved that LEP-2a could significantly enhance the inhibitory effectiveness of 5-FU on Hela cells at the concentrations of 100, 200, 300, and 400 μg/mL. The above results suggested that LEP-2a could be seen as a potential source for developing novel antineoplastic agents.

Synthesis and characterization of ZnO phytonanocomposite using Strychnos nux-vomica L. (Loganiaceae) and antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains from diabetic foot ulcer

Nanobiotechnology has been emerged as an efficient technology for the development of antimicrobial nanoparticles through an eco-friendly approach. In this study, green synthesized phytonanocomposite of ZnO from Strychnos nux-vomica leaf aqueous extract was characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV–visible-spectroscopy, Photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), High-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Antibacterial activity was investigated against multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDR) isolated from diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), such as MDR–methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), MDR–Escherichia coli, MDR–Pseudomonas aeruginosa, MDR–Acinetobacter baumannii, as well as against standard bacterial strains, S. aureus ATCC 29213, E. coli ATCC 25922, P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and E. faecalis ATCC 29212 through disc diffusion assays on Muller Hinton Agar. The characterization studies revealed a size-controlled synthesis of quasi-spherical hexagonal wurtzite structured ZnO phytonanocomposite with an average size of 15.52 nm. Additionally, remarkable bactericidal activities against MDR clinical as well as ATCC bacterial strains were exhibited, with a maximum zone of inhibition of 22.33 ± 1.53 mm (against S. aureus ATCC 29213) and 22.33 ± 1.16 mm (MDR–MRSA) at a concentration of 400 µg/mL. This study thus established the possibility of developing antimicrobial ZnO nanocomposite of Strychnos nux-vomica leaf extract to combat developing drug resistance currently being experienced in health care facilities.

Renoprotective Effects of Total Glucosides from Paeony against Nephrotoxicity Induced by Total Alkaloids from Semen Strychni

Semen Strychni have been shown to have therapeutic effect in improving blood circulation, relieving rheumatic pain, and treating cancer. However, Semen Strychni could cause severe nephrotoxicity. The present study was designed to evaluate whether treatment with total glucosides from paeony (TGP) has renoprotective effect against nephrotoxicity induced by total alkaloids from Semen Strychni (TAS). The levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) were determined and histopathological changes were also examined to evaluate renal injury. Moreover, a HPLC-MS method was developed and validated to investigate the comparative toxicokinetics of strychnine and brucine in rats plasma after oral administration of TAS and pretreatment with TGP. Results demonstrated that the levels of BUN and Cr were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in TAS group, together with tubule epithelium cloudy swelling, degeneration, and glomerular atrophy in rats' kidneys. The TAS-induced kidney damage was alleviated after pretreatment with TGP. Besides, T_max of strychnine and brucine were increased and T_1/2 of strychnine and brucine were decreased after pretreatment with TGP. The toxicokinetics study showed that pretreatment with TGP could attenuate the absorption of strychnine and brucine, as well as accelerate their elimination. These results suggest that TGP possesses renoprotective effects.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of novel NGR-modified liposomes containing brucine

In this study, a novel NGR (Asn-Gly-Arg) peptide-modified liposomal brucine was prepared by using spray-drying method. The surface morphology of the liposomes, encapsulation efficiency and particle size were investigated. The data showed that the addition of NGR did not produce any significant influence on brucine liposomes in terms of particle size or zeta potential. In addition, after 3 months of storage, no dramatic change such as visible aggregation, drug content changes or precipitation in the appearance of NGR-brucine liposomes occurred. The in vitro release results indicated that the release of brucine from NGR liposomes was similar to that of liposomes, demonstrating that the NGR modification did not affect brucine release. The in vitro drug-release kinetic model of NGR-brucine liposomes fitted well with the Weibull's equation. In vivo, NGR-brucine liposomes could significantly extend the bioavailability of brucine; however, there was no significant difference observed in the pharmacokinetic parameters between liposomes and NGR liposomes after intravenous administration. Antitumor activity results showed that NGR-modified liposomes exhibited less toxicity and much higher efficacy in HepG2-bearing mice compared with non-modified liposomes. The enhanced antitumor activity might have occurred because brucine was specifically recognized by NGR receptor on the surface of tumor cells, which enhanced the intracellular uptake of drugs.

Brucine suppresses breast cancer metastasis via inhibiting epithelial mesenchymal transition and matrix metalloproteinases expressions

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of brucine on the migration, invasion, adhesion and expressions of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the highly metastatic breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and Hs578-T.

METHODS

MDA-MB-231 and Hs578-T cells were divided to 4 groups: the control group (0.1% DMSO), and 25, 50 and 100 μmol/L brucine groups. The cell viability was determined using a CellTiter-Glo® luminescent cell viability. The scratch wound healing assay and tanswell migration assay were used to determine the migration ability of these cells treated by different concentrations of brucine. The proliferation rate, invasive potential and adhesive ability were respectively performed by colony formation assay, transwell invasion assay and adhension assay. The protein and mRNA expressions of EMT biomarkers, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were investigated by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, brucine had little effect on cell viability or proliferation (P>0.05), but led to a dose-dependent decrease on migration, invasion, adhension of MDA-MB-231 and Hs578-T cells (P<0.01). Furthermore, brucine increased the protein and mRNA levels of EMT markers such as E-cadherin and β-catenin in MDA-MB-231 and Hs578-T cells, and decreased the protein and mRNA levels of mesenychmal markers such as vimentin and fibronectin, as well as the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 (all P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Brucine inhibited triple negative breast cancer cells metastasis potentially through EMT reversion and MMP-2 and MMP-9 inhibition.

Analysis of antiproliferative effect of Chamerion angustifolium water extract and its fractions on several breast cancer cell lines

PURPOSE

To evaluate the antiproliferative effect of the aerial part of Chamerion angustifolium (L.) Holub. (Onagraceae) extract and its fractions in vitro. This is the first study on the anti-proliferative effect of C. angustifolium on 3 distinct breast cancer cell lines.

MATERIAL/METHODS

Breast cancer cell lines MCF7, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 were exposed to different concentrations of the water extract of C. angustifolium, where DPPH radical scavenging activity was 0.018-0.443mg/ml, expressed in rutin equivalents. Cell growth was analyzed after 24, 48 and 72h of incubation. Solid-phase extraction was applied for the fractionation of C. angustifolium water extract and MDA-MB-468 cell line growth was tested using different fractions.

RESULTS

The concentrations corresponding to radical scavenging activity of 0.117 and 0.266mg/ml caused MCF7 cells growth inhibition, while in the samples exposed to the highest concentration (0.355 and 0.443mg/ml) no proliferation was register, suggesting cell death. MDA-MB-468 cell analysis showed similar responses. MDA-MB-231 demonstrated cell growth inhibition following the exposure to all analyzed high extract doses (0.117-0.443mg/ml). MDA-MB-468 cells were selected to evaluate the effect of fractions. In the samples exposed to the fraction containing the highest amount (91%) of oenothein B, at the concentration of 0.117mg/ml a pronounced cell growth inhibition while at higher concentrations (0.266 and 0.443mg/ml) no cell proliferation was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The consumption of C. angustifolium herb can be advantageous, alongside with conventional breast cancer treatment.

A review on medicinal uses, analytical techniques and pharmacological activities of Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.: A concise report

The purpose of this review is to provide comprehensive and relevant information on the utilization and pharmacological activities of Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. (Loganiaceae), used for the treatment of various diseases. Strychnos nux-vomica is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and its dried seeds are used for the treatment of neurodisorders, arthritis and vomiting. The different use of this plant as herbal remedy in Chinese medicine is also reported in the literature. Strychnine and brucine are major pharmacologically active phytoconstituents of Strychnos nux-vomica, which are central nervous stimulant, but also found to be poisonous at high dosage. Owing to its diversity of phytoconstituents, it is used for treatment of various disorders. Pharmacologically it has been validated for its effect on inflammation, microbial infections, gastrointestinal problem, nervous system, bones cells, cardiovascular systems, cancer and blood glucose level. It also has antioxidant activity and antifeedant activity. Informations about Strychnos nux-vomica, compiled in the present review article could be useful to the researchers for the scientific validation of its traditional claim in the future.

Why do Hydrates (Solvates) Form in Small Neutral Organic Molecules? Exploring the Crystal Form Landscapes of the Alkaloids Brucine and Strychnine

Computational methods were used to generate and explore the crystal structure landscapes of the two alkaloids strychnine and brucine. The computed structures were analyzed and rationalized by correlating the modelling results to a rich pool of available experimental data. Despite their structural similarity, the two compounds show marked differences in the formation of solid forms. For strychnine only one anhydrous form is reported in the literature and two new solvates from 1,4-dioxane were detected in the course of this work. In contrast, 22 solid forms are so far known to exist for brucine, comprising two anhydrates, four hydrates (HyA - HyC and a 5.25-hydrate), twelve solvates (alcohols and acetone) and four heterosolvates (mixed solvates with water and alcohols). For strychnine it is hard to produce any solid form other than the stable anhydrate while the formation of specific solid state forms of brucine is governed by a complex interplay between temperature and relative humidity/water activity and it is rather a challenging to avoid hydrate formation. Differences in crystal packing and the high tendency for brucine to form hydrates are not intuitive from the molecular structure alone, as both molecules have hydrogen bond acceptor groups but lack hydrogen bond donor groups. Only the evaluation of the crystal energy landscapes, in particular the close-packed crystal structures and high-energy open frameworks containing voids of molecular (water) dimensions, allowed us to unravel the diverse solid state behavior of the two alkaloids at a molecular level. In this study we demonstrate that expanding the analysis of anhydrate crystal energy landscapes to higher energy structures and calculating the solvent-accessible volume can be used to estimate non-stoichiometric or channel hydrate (solvate) formation, without explicitly computing the hydrate/solvate crystal energy landscapes.

Stoichiometric and Non-Stoichiometric Hydrates of Brucine

The complex interplay of temperature and water activity (a_w) / relative humidity (RH) on the solid form stability and transformation pathways of three hydrates (HyA, HyB and HyC), an isostructural dehydrate (HyA_dehy ), an anhydrate (AH) and amorphous brucine has been elucidated and the transformation enthalpies quantified. The dihydrate (HyA) shows a non-stoichimetric (de)hydration behavior at RH < 40% at 25 °C and the removal of the water molecules results in an isomorphic dehydrate structure. The metastable dehydration product converts to AH upon storage at driest conditions or to HyA if exposed to moisture. HyB is a stoichiometric tetrahydrate. The loss of the water molecules causes HyB to collapse to an amorphous phase. Amorphous brucine transforms to AH at RH < 40% RH and a mixture of hydrated phases at higher RH values. The third hyrdate (HyC) is only stable at RH ≥ 55% at 25 °C and contains 3.65 to 3.85 mole equivalent of water. Dehydration of HyC occurs in one step at RH < 55% at 25 °C or upon heating and AH is obtained. The AH is the thermodynamically most stable phase of brucine at RH < 40% at 25 °C. Depending on the conditions, temperature and a_w, each of the three hydrates becomes the thermodynamically most stable form. This study demonstrates the importance of applying complimentary analytical techniques and appropriate approaches for understanding the stability ranges and transition behavior between the solid forms of compounds with multiple hydrates.

[Brucine inhibits the proliferation of human lung cancer cell line PC-9 via arresting cell cycle]

BACKGROUND

It has been proven that Cyclin D1 and Cyclin E are the important positive regulators of cell cycle, they are closely related to the tumor proliferation. The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between Brucine and the proliferation in human lung cancer cell line PC-9, and the effect of it on the expression of Cyclin D1 and Cyclin E.

METHODS

PC-9 cells were divided to 4 groups: the normal control group, the DMSO control group (2‰), the 150 μM Brucine group, and the 300 μM Brucine group. The proliferation rate of PC-9 cells was determined by The CellTiter-Glo Luminescent Cell Viability Assay and Colony Formation assay. The change of cell cycle was detected by Flow cytome try. Expressions of cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1, Cyclin E mRNA were determined by qRT-PCR. Protein expression of cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1, Cyclin E were determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, Brucine remarkably inhibited the proliferation of PC-9 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P<0.01); Flow cytome try showed that Brucine blocked the cell cycle of PC-9 cells at G0/G1, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.01); qRT-PCR showed that the expression of Cyclin D1, Cyclin E mRNA were down-regulated; Western blot showed that the protein expression of Cyclin D1, Cyclin E were down-regulated.

CONCLUSIONS

Brucine can inhibit the proliferation of human lung cancer cell line PC-9 mainly by blocking the cell cycle at G0/G1 via down-regulating the expression of Cyclin D1, Cyclin E.

Important poisonous plants in tibetan ethnomedicine

Tibetan ethnomedicine is famous worldwide, both for its high effectiveness and unique cultural background. Many poisonous plants have been widely used to treat disorders in the Tibetan medicinal system. In the present review article, some representative poisonous plant species are introduced in terms of their significance in traditional Tibetan medicinal practices. They are Aconitumpendulum, Strychnos nux-vomica, Daturastramonium and Anisodus tanguticus, for which the toxic chemical constituents, bioactivities and pharmacological functions are reviewed herein. The most important toxins include aconitine, strychnine, scopolamine, and anisodamine. These toxic plants are still currently in use for pain-reduction and other purposes by Tibetan healers after processing.

Identification of the toxic components in Semen Strychni and their metabolites in rat serum by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with a Q Exactive high-resolution benchtop quadrupole Orbitrap mass spectrometer

Scheme of the identification of components in vitro and in vivo.

Thermosensitive liposomes with higher phase transition temperature for targeted drug delivery to tumor

Thermosensitive liposomes (TSL) in combination with local hyperthermia (HT) represent a promising tool for tumor specific drug delivery. The objective of the study was to investigate the influence of phase transition temperature (Tm) on the properties of TSL. High temperature triggered TSL (HTSL), low temperature triggered TSL (LTSL) and non-TSL (NTSL) were prepared and temperature sensitive release properties were extensively compared in different media. Mouse plasma was determined to have similar effect on the release profiles compared to human plasma, in which complete release were obtained at 38 °C and 40 °C for LTSL and HTSL, respectively. The temperature at which complete release achieved was found to be obviously lower than Tm. Brucine, an antitumor alkaloid, was encapsulated into different TSLs. After HT treatment, the viabilities of SMMC 7721 cells were determined to be 21.3±3.8% and 16.8±3.3% for 127 μM brucine LTSL and HTSL, respectively. Treating the tumor-bearing mice with LTSL, HTSL and NTSL led to significantly increased brucine uptake in the heated tumor site compared to the brucine solution group by 2.30, 3.80 and 2.26-fold, respectively. The results of this study suggested that Tm of TSL should be increased to obtain improved drug delivery efficiency to tumor.

Brucine suppresses ethanol intake and preference in alcohol-preferring Fawn-Hooded rats

AIM

Brucine (BRU) extracted from the seeds of Strychnos nux-vomica L is glycine receptor antagonist. We hypothesize that BRU may modify alcohol consumption by acting at glycine receptors, and evaluated the pharmacodynamic profiles and adverse effects of BRU in rat models of alcohol abuse.

METHODS

Alcohol-preferring Fawn-Hooded (FH/Wjd) rats were administered BRU (10, 20 or 30 mg/kg, sc). The effects of BRU on alcohol consumption were examined in ethanol 2-bottle-choice drinking paradigm, ethanol/sucrose operant self-administration paradigm and 5-d ethanol deprivation test. In addition, open field test was used to assess the general locomotor activity of FH/Wjd rats, and conditioned place preference (CPP) was conducted to assess conditioned reinforcing effect.

RESULTS

In ethanol 2-bottle-choice drinking paradigm, treatment with BRU for 10 consecutive days dose-dependently decreased the ethanol intake associated with a compensatory increase of water intake, but unchanged the daily total fluid intake and body weight. In ethanol/sucrose operant self-administration paradigms, BRU (30 mg/kg) administered before each testing session significantly decreased the number of lever presses for ethanol and the ethanol intake, without affecting the number of sucrose (10%) responses, total sucrose intake, and the number of lever presses for water. Acute treatment with BRU (30 mg/kg) completely suppressed the deprivation-induced elevation of ethanol consumption. Treatment with BRU (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) did not alter locomotion of FH/Wjd rats, nor did it produce place preference or aversion.

CONCLUSION

BRU selectively decreases ethanol consumption with minimal adverse effects. Therefore, BRU may represent a new pharmacotherapy for alcoholism.

Anti-tumor effects of flavonoids from the ethnic medicine Docynia delavayi (Franch.) Schneid. and its possible mechanism

This study investigated the active components and the anti-tumor efficacy and mechanisms of the flavonoids from Docynia delavayi (Franch.) Schneid. (DDS). MTT assay was used to examine the growth inhibitory effects of the four flavonoids, including chrysin, quercetin, naringenin, and avicularin that were isolated from the rhizome of DDS, on human hematomas cell (HepG2), esophageal carcinoma cell (EC109), human cervical adenocarcinoma cell (Hela), human colon adenocarcinoma cell (SW480), and African green monkey kidney cell (Vero cells). The anti-tumor mechanism of chrysin on HepG2 was further investigated by the methods of fluorescence staining, flow cytometry, and immunoblotting. The results showed that the inhibitory activity of chrysin was much stronger than the other three flavonoids on HepG2, EC109, Hela, and SW480 cells for 48 h treatment in vitro. Moreover, no inhibiting effect of chrysin on the proliferation of normal cells (Vero cells) was observed. Further study revealed that chrysin caused HepG2 cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, and apoptotic body formation, all of which were typical characteristics of apoptosis programmed cell death. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that chrysin increased the sub G0/G1 population, which indicated the increased cell apoptosis, thus preventing cells from entering the S phase as the population in G2/M or S phase declined; whereas in G0/G1 phase, it increased. In addition, immunoblot results showed that chrysin significantly increased the expression levels of caspase-3 and Bax proteins, and it decreased the expression level of B-cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 (Bcl-2) protein. These findings indicate that chrysin is the major flavonoid present in DDS, and it induces HepG2 cell death via apoptosis, probably through the participation of caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 proteins.