Behavioral, neurochemical and neuroendocrine effects of the ethanolic extract from Curcuma longa L. in the mouse forced swimming test

Curcumin Reduces Depression in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Type 2 diabetes and depression co-occur in a bidirectional manner. Curcumin supplements exhibit antidepressant effects that may mitigate depression by modulating neurotransmitters and reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin in improving depression severity in obese type 2 diabetes patients. The study employed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial design with 227 participants. The primary end-point was depression severity assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Biomarkers were measured at baseline and at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month intervals. The biomarkers assessed were serotonin levels, pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha), antioxidant activities (total antioxidant status, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase), and malondialdehyde. After 12 months, the curcumin group exhibited significantly improved depression severity (p = 0.000001). The curcumin group had higher levels of serotonin (p < 0.0001) but lower levels of interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (p < 0.001 for all) than the placebo group. Total antioxidant status, glutathione peroxidase activity, and superoxide dismutase activity were elevated in the curcumin group, whereas malondialdehyde levels were greater in the placebo group (p < 0.001 for all). These findings suggest curcumin may have antidepressant effects on obese type 2 diabetes patients.

Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effect of Curcumin-Conjugated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Reserpine-Induced Depression in Wistar Rats

Depression, a devastating brain illness, necessitates the exploration of novel antidepressant treatments. We evaluated the antidepressant effects of free curcumin, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), and curcumin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zn(cur)O NPs). The nanoformulations were extensively characterized using advanced techniques. An acute toxicity study ensured the safety of Zn(cur)O NPs. Rats were assigned to one of five groups: control, reserpine-induced depression model, treatment with ZnO NPs, free curcumin, or Zn(cur)O NPs. Behavioral assessments (forced swimming test [FST] and open-field test [OFT]) and neurochemical analyses were conducted. Zn(cur)O NPs exhibited superior efficacy in ameliorating reserpine-induced behavioral and neurochemical effects compared to free curcumin and ZnO NPs. The reserpine-induced model displayed reduced motor activity, swimming time, and increased immobility time in the FST and OFT. Treatment with Zn(cur)O NPs 45 mg/kg significantly improved motor activity and reduced immobility time. Furthermore, Zn(cur)O NPs decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels while increasing reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) levels. Additionally, concentrations of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) increased. In conclusion, curcumin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles demonstrate potent antidepressant effects, alleviating depressive-like behavior in rats. These findings support Zn(cur)O NPs as a promising therapeutic strategy for depression management, warranting further investigation and clinical validation.

Aromatherapy in anxiety, depression, and insomnia: A bibliometric study and visualization analysis

Aromatherapy is a natural treatment method that uses essential oils (EOs) extracted from aromatic plants; EOs and their components exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, with a special focus on their implementation toward mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This study aimed to identify the scientific output and activity related to aromatherapy in anxiety, depression, and insomnia through bibliometric approaches. In this bibliometric study, we utilized CiteSpace and VOSviewer to evaluate the Web of Science Core Collection publications and to build visualizing maps to analyze the research progress on this topic between 2001 and 2021. A total of 1159 original and review articles in English, published in 578 different peer-reviewed journals by 260 authors, were identified. In the recent two decades, there was a steady increase in the number of published articles, especially in the following five years. All publications were distributed among 88 countries/regions. The United States had the most publications, with 188 (16.22%) articles, followed by China [131 (11.30%)], Brazil [110 (9.49%)], and Japan [85 (7.33%)]. Most studies were published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, and Physiology & Behavior was the most cited journal. Hritcu L was the top published scientist and Gupta SC was the most frequently co-cited. The knowledge base of this field research mainly included the related efficacy of aromatherapy/EOs, application status, and biochemical mechanism. And the keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed that the topics "oxidative stress," "chemical composition," "systematic review," and "sleep quality" were research frontiers. In conclusion, this comprehensive bibliometric study provides an updated perspective on research hotspots of aromatherapy in anxiety or depression and developmental tendencies of natural remedies for mental health. In addition, this study could also provide valuable information for research teams, practitioners, and decision-makers when designing and implementing natural treatment methods for mental health-promoting interventions for individuals with mood disorders.

Antidepressant effect of 4-Butyl-a-agarofuran via HPA axis and serotonin system

Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and the psychiatric diagnosis most commonly associated with suicide. 4-Butyl-a-agarofuran (AF-5), a derivative of agarwood furan, is currently in phase III clinical trials for generalized anxiety disorder. Herein, we explored the antidepressant effect and its possible neurobiological mechanisms in animal models. In present study, AF-5 administration markedly decreased the immobility time in mouse forced swim test and tail suspension test. In the sub-chronic reserpine-induced depressive rats, AF-5 treatment markedly increased the rectal temperature and decreased the immobility time of model rats. In addition, chronic AF-5 treatment markedly reversed the depressive-like behaviors in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats by reducing immobility time of forced swim test. Single treatment with AF-5 also potentiated the mouse head-twitch response induced by 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP, a metabolic precursor to serotonin), and antagonized the ptosis and motor ability triggered by reserpine. However, AF-5 had no effect on yohimbine toxicity in mice. These results indicated that acute treatment with AF-5 produced serotonergic, but not noradrenergic activation. Furthermore, AF-5 reduced adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level in serum and normalized the neurotransmitter changes, including the decreased serotonin (5-HT) in hippocampus of CUMS rats. Moreover, AF-5 affected the expressions of CRFR1 and 5-HT2C receptor in CUMS rats. These findings confirm the antidepressant effect of AF-5 in animal models, which may be primarily related to CRFR1 and 5-HT2C receptor. AF-5 appears to be promising as a novel dual target drug for depression treatment.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antibacterial Activities of Kyllinga nemoralis Extracts against the Growth of some Pathogenic Bacteria

This study aimed to screen the phytochemical contents and investigate antibacterial activities of the aqueous and methanolic extracts of Kyllinga nemoralis. Extraction was done using the whole plant of K. nemoralis except the root. The phytochemical screening was carried out on both aqueous and methanolic extracts of K. nemoralis. The aqueous extract showed the presence of saponin and high amount of steroid, while the methanolic extract showed high amount of terpenoid and steroid. The antibacterial activities of K. nemoralis extracts were tested against five Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Bacillus thuringiensis) and four Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Shigella sonnei, Salmonella Typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae). K. nemoralis extracts were subjected to testing of their antibacterial activities by the disk diffusion method. Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory concentrations of the extracts were determined. The results indicate that the aqueous extract of K. nemoralis exhibits more antibacterial activities than the methanolic extract. The aqueous extract of K. nemoralis showed efficacy against S. aureus and MRSA while the methanolic extract of K. nemoralis was found to exert antibacterial activity against MRSA. The results proved the potency of K. nemoralis extracts as natural antibacterial and supported the potential of use in the medication of the diseases caused by the tested bacteria.

Outbreak of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis associated with Aeromonas hydrophila in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus: The role of turmeric oil in enhancing immunity and inducing resistance against co-infection

Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, a ciliated parasite causing ichthyophthiriasis (white spot disease) in freshwater fishes, results in significant economic loss to the aquaculture sector. One of the important predisposing factors for ichthyophthiriasis is low water temperature (i.e., below 20°C), which affects the health and makes freshwater fishes more susceptible to parasitic infections. During ichthyophthiriasis, fishes are stressed and acute immune reactions are compromised, which enables the aquatic bacterial pathogens to simultaneously infect the host and increase the severity of disease. In the present work, we aimed to understand the parasite–bacteria co-infection mechanism in fish. Later, Curcuma longa (turmeric) essential oil was used as a promising management strategy to improve immunity and control co-infections in fish. A natural outbreak of I. multifiliis was reported (validated by 16S rRNA PCR and sequencing method) in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus from a culture facility of ICAR-CIFRI, India. The fish showed clinical signs including hemorrhage, ulcer, discoloration, and redness in the body surface. Further microbiological analysis revealed that Aeromonas hydrophila was associated (validated by 16S rRNA PCR and sequencing method) with the infection and mortality of P. hypophthalmus, confirmed by hemolysin and survival assay. This created a scenario of co-infections, where both infectious agents are active together, causing ichthyophthiriasis and motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) in P. hypophthalmus. Interestingly, turmeric oil supplementation induced protective immunity in P. hypophthalmus against the co-infection condition. The study showed that P. hypophthalmus fingerlings supplemented with turmeric oil, at an optimum concentration (10 ppm), exhibited significantly increased survival against co-infection. The optimum concentration induced anti-stress and antioxidative response in fingerlings, marked by a significant decrease in cortisol and elevated levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in treated animals as compared with the controls. Furthermore, the study indicated that supplementation of turmeric oil increases both non-specific and specific immune response, and significantly higher values of immune genes (interleukin-1β, transferrin, and C3), HSP70, HSP90, and IgM were observed in P. hypophthalmus treatment groups. Our findings suggest that C. longa (turmeric) oil modulates stress, antioxidant, and immunological responses, probably contributing to enhanced protection in P. hypophthalmus. Hence, the application of turmeric oil treatment in aquaculture might become a management strategy to control co-infections in fishes. However, this hypothesis needs further validation.

Bushen Jieyu Tiaochong Formula reduces apoptosis of granulosa cells via the PERK-ATF4-CHOP signaling pathway in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome with chronic stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and complex endocrine disorder that is also an important cause of infertility. Adverse psychological stress can aggravate the occurrence and development of PCOS. Bushen Jieyu Tiaochong Formula (BJTF), a prescription of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used in the treatment of PCOS and shown to be effective in reducing negative emotion. However, the therapeutic mechanism has yet to be clearly elucidated. In the current study, we investigated the potential mechanism of action of BJTF.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the role of PERK-ATF4-CHOP signaling in the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of BJTF in a rat model of PCOS, with chronic stress induced by letrozole and a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) paradigm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In addition to the normal control group, the PCOS combined with CUMS model rats were randomly assigned to a model group, a Diane-35 (ethinylestradiol 35 μg/cyproterone acetate 2 mg)-treated positive control group, or one of three BJTF-treated groups receiving a low, medium, or high dose. Behavioral testing, including the sucrose preference test and open field test, was conducted, and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to observe changes in the pathological morphology of ovarian tissue. Free testosterone (FT), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in serum were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The hippocampal levels of norepinephrine (NE), 5-hydroxytryptamine/serotonin (5-HT), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD). Apoptotic granulosa cells were detected using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Furthermore, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and CHOP in the ovarian tissues. The expression levels of GRP78, CHOP, PERK, and ATF4 in ovarian tissues were also measured by western blotting.

RESULTS

Treatment with either BJTF or Diane-35 ameliorated the abnormal cystic dilatation of follicles in the model rats and reduced the serum levels of FT and LH, and the LH/FSH ratio. BJTF treatment also attenuated chronic psychological stress-like behavior and regulated the expression and metabolism of cerebral monoamine neurotransmitters. The efficacy of BJTF was greater than that of Diane-35, with the optimal effects observed at the medium dose. BJTF also lowered the apoptotic index of ovarian granulosa cells and downregulated the expression of GRP78, CHOP, and ATF4. Although the expression level of PERK was not significantly altered by BJTF, the mean PERK expression level was the lowest in the medium-dose BJTF group.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of BJTF has the therapeutic potential to promote the homeostasis of the reproductive endocrine environment and to restore follicular development and ovulation, possibly through the inhibition of the PERK-ATF4-CHOP signaling pathway, leading to downregulation of GRP78 expression to further delay ovarian granule cell apoptosis mediated by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Moreover, BJTF could improve behavioral performance by regulating cerebral monoamine neurotransmitters in this rat model. These findings provide a new perspective for treating PCOS related to psychological stress using TCM.

Nanocurcumin substantially alleviates noise stress-induced anxiety-like behavior: the roles of tight junctions and NMDA receptors in the hippocampus

Environmental noise stress affects non-auditory brain regions such as the hippocampus; an area of the brain implicated in cognition and emotion. Recent experimental data indicate that dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and overexpression of NMDA receptors may cause anxiety. In this experiment, we evaluated the effect of nanocurcumin on anxiety-like behavior and the expression of tight junctions and NMDA receptor subunits in the hippocampus of rats exposed to traffic noise. Forty rats were assigned to control (CON), stress (ST), nanocurcumin (NC), and nanocurcumin+stress (NC+ST) groups. Anxiety-like behavior was evaluated through an elevated zero maze apparatus. The gene expression of tight junctions and NMDA receptor subunits was examined by real-time PCR in the hippocampus. Statistical analysis showed that noise exposure developed anxiety-like behavior and elevated the corticosterone level in the ST group compared to the CON group. The nanocurcumin administration decreased the stress and anxiety in the NC+ST group compared to the ST animals. While the noise stress reduced the gene expression of tight junctions occludin, claudin-5, and ZO-1, the nanocurcumin administration increased them in the NC+ST animals. Furthermore, the noise stress elevated the gene expression of the NMDA receptor subunits GRIN1 and GRIN2B. The NC+ST animals showed a modification of these subunits compared to the ST animals. Our findings showed that noise exposure promotes stress and anxiety and impairs the NMDA receptor structure and BBB integrity. The nanocurcumin treatment displayed partly restored the destructive effects of noise exposure.

A Herbal Mixture of Sesami Semen Nigrum and Longan Arillus Induces Neurite Outgrowth in Cultured Neurons and Shows Anti-Depression in Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Rats

Medicinal food homology is referring to a group of food itself being considered as herbal medicine without a boundary of usage. Under the guidance of this food/medicine principle, the current study aims to develop anti-depressant from this food/medicine catalog. The herbal mixture of Sesami Semen Nigrum and Longan Arillus was evaluated in cultured PC12 rat pheochromocytoma cells, rat primary cortical neurons, and in chronic mild stress (CMS)-induced depressive rat model. The combination of two ethanolic extracts of Sesami Semen Nigrum and Longan Arillus in 1 : 1 ratio mimicked the function of nerve growth factor (NGF) and synergistically induced neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells. Besides, the expression and phosphorylation of tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) of the cultured cells were also elevated. This neurotrophic activity of herbal mixture was further supported by the increased expressions of biomarkers for neurogenesis and synaptogenesis in cortical neurons. Moreover, the depressed rats were soothed by the intake of herbal mixture, showing improved performance in behavior tests, as well as reversed levels of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors. Our results provide a new way to make full use of the current food/medicine resources, as to accelerate the development of therapeutics for depression.

Natural Products for the Treatment of Post-stroke Depression

Post-stroke depression (PSD) is the most frequent and important neuropsychiatric consequence of stroke. It is strongly associated with exacerbated deterioration of functional recovery, physical and cognitive recoveries, and quality of life. However, its mechanism is remarkably complicated, including the neurotransmitters hypothesis (which consists of a monoaminergic hypothesis and glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity hypothesis), inflammation hypothesis, dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and neurotrophic hypothesis and neuroplasticity. So far, the underlying pathogenesis of PSD has not been clearly defined yet. At present, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been used as the first-line drugs to treat patients with PSD. Additionally, more than SSRIs, a majority of the current antidepressants complied with multiple side effects, which limits their clinical application. Currently, a wide variety of studies revealed the therapeutic potential of natural products in the management of several diseases, especially PSD, with minor side effects. Accordingly, in our present review, we aim to summarize the therapeutic targets of these compounds and their potential role in-clinic therapy for patients with PSD.

A Comprehensive Review on the Therapeutic Potential of Curcuma longa Linn. in Relation to its Major Active Constituent Curcumin

Curcuma longa Linn. (C. longa), popularly known as turmeric, belongs to the Zingiberaceae family and has a long historical background of having healing properties against many diseases. In Unani and Ayurveda medicine, C. longa has been used for liver obstruction and jaundice, and has been applied externally for ulcers and inflammation. Additionally, it is employed in several other ailments such as cough, cold, dental issues, indigestion, skin infections, blood purification, asthma, piles, bronchitis, tumor, wounds, and hepatic disorders, and is used as an antiseptic. Curcumin, a major constituent of C. longa, is well known for its therapeutic potential in numerous disorders. However, there is a lack of literature on the therapeutic potential of C. longa in contrast to curcumin. Hence, the present review aimed to provide in-depth information by highlighting knowledge gaps in traditional and scientific evidence about C. longa in relation to curcumin. The relationship to one another in terms of biological action includes their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, immunomodulatory, antifertility, antimicrobial, antiallergic, antidermatophytic, and antidepressant properties. Furthermore, in-depth discussion of C. longa on its taxonomic categorization, traditional uses, botanical description, phytochemical ingredients, pharmacology, toxicity, and safety aspects in relation to its major compound curcumin is needed to explore the trends and perspectives for future research. Considering all of the promising evidence to date, there is still a lack of supportive evidence especially from clinical trials on the adjunct use of C. longa and curcumin. This prompts further preclinical and clinical investigations on curcumin.

Preparation and characterization of immobilized 5-HT1A receptor stationary phase for high throughput screening of the receptor-binding ligands from complex systems like Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling extract

The incidence of depression has increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This disease is closely associated with serotonin _1A (5-HT_1A) receptor and often treated by complex prescription containing Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling. Therefore, we hypothesized that this herb contains bioactive compounds specially binding to the receptor. However, the rapid discovery of new ligands of 5-HT_1A receptor is still challenging due to the lack of efficient screening methods. To address this problem, we developed and characterized a novel approach for the rapid screening of ligands by using immobilized 5-HT_1A receptor as the chromatographic stationary phase. Briefly, haloalkane dehalogenase was fused at the C-terminal of 5-HT_1A receptor, and the modified 5-HT_1A receptor was immobilized on amino-microspheres by the reaction between haloalkane dehalogenase and 6-chlorohexanoic acid linker. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray photo-electron were used to characterize the morphology and element of the immobilized receptor. The binding of three specific ligands to 5-HT_1A receptor was investigated by two different methods. Moreover, we examined the feasibility of 5-HT_1A receptor colume in high throughput screening of new ligands from complex systems as exemplified by Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling. Gweicurculactone, 2-hydroxy-1-(3,4-dihydroxybenzene)-7-(4′-hydroxybezene)-heptane and curcuminol F were identified as the ligands of 5-HT_1A receptor with the binding energies of −7.06 kcal/mol, −7.77 kcal/mol and −5.26 kcal/mol, respectively. Collectively, these results indicated that the immobilized 5-HT_1A receptor was capable of screening bioactive compound from complex system, providing an effective methodology for high throughput screening.

Behavioral Evaluation of the Effects of Aqueous and Ethanol Extracts of Suaeda vermiculata Forssk on Rats

BACKGROUND

Suaeda vermiculata is one of the widely distributed halophytes in central Saudi Arabia. The plant is used as a remedy for liver diseases, jaundice, and inflammation. S. vermiculata is also used as camels' food by local shepherds.

PURPOSE

The study aims to evaluate the behavioral antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of S. vermiculata aqueous and ethanol extracts.

METHODS

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of S. vermiculata were prepared by the maceration technique. Standard forced swim test cylinder and light/dark chamber device were used to evaluate the antidepressant and anxiolytic activities of the extracts (200 mg/kg) in rats model, respectively.

RESULTS

The aqueous and ethanol extracts of S. vermiculata showed remarkable antidepressant activity with significant increase in the swimming time and reduced immobility in the rats compared to imipramine treated animals (P<0.05). Ethanol extract increased the swimming time by 20% and decreased the immobility time by more than 60% compared to the control group of animals. In contrast, the extracts induced the anxiety behavior in experimental rats compared to vehicle- treated animals. The extracts significantly (P<0.001) reduced the time spent by rats in the light chamber by more than 50% and increased the time spent in dark chamber as compared with the control group and the group receiving diazepam.

CONCLUSION

The medicinally important plant S. vermiculata induced anxiety behavior with antidepressant activity in rats. These effects from our point of view are similar to the effects of some common beverages containing caffeine such as coffee and tea.

Magic Shotgun Nature with Scattergun Approach of Curcumin Repurposing in Obsessive-compulsive Disorder: A Novel Metaphysician of Drug Discovery

BACKGROUND

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an intricate, debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder. Exclusively, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are effective agents used for the treatment of OCD. However, SSRIs are not a magic pill-they do not respond adequately to everybody. In this consideration, a single drug target (magic bullet) is only a slightly superior option for all patients with a lot of pathognomonic signs.

OBJECTIVE

The principal aim of the current study was to check the potential contribution of repurposing of magic shotgun nature of curcumin (rhizomes of Curcuma longa) with scattergun approach- proceeding a pioneer 'fine-tune' for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

METHOD

Swiss albino mice (male 20 to 25 gram) were grouped into different groups (n = 6) used for the MBB (marble-burying behaviour) and MA (motor activity) test as a model for evaluation of anti-compulsive activity (Anti-OCD). Ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa (EECL-10, 15, 25, 40 mg/kg), or SSRI (fluoxetine 5, 10, 15 mg/kg) followed by pre-treated with either sub effective dose of fluoxetine attenuated MBB without effected the MA, or neurotoxin p-chlorophenyl alanine induced compulsive behavior and specific 5-HT receptors agonists/ antagonist, intraperitoneally revealed neuromodulation.

RESULTS

EECL (40 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the MBB. Although, during treatments, none of the above had any critical impact on MA. p < 0.05 was considered significant in every case.

CONCLUSION

Multiple drug-target interactions with multifarious biogenic receptors, supervene unexpected side effects followed by the repurposing of wanted effects (scattergun effect) were evoked by curcumin treatment. Finally, the study shows that EECL (curcumin) has anti-compulsive activity, which is mediated by neuromodulation with 5-HT receptors.

Nutrition as Metabolic Treatment for Anxiety

Despite the overwhelming prevalence of anxiety disorders in modern society, medications and psychotherapy often fail to achieve complete symptom resolution. A complementary approach to medicating symptoms is to address the underlying metabolic pathologies associated with mental illnesses and anxiety. This may be achieved through nutritional interventions. In this perspectives piece, we highlight the roles of the microbiome and inflammation as influencers of anxiety. We further discuss the evidence base for six specific nutritional interventions: avoiding artificial sweeteners and gluten, including omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric in the diet, supplementation with vitamin D, and ketogenic diets. We attempt to integrate insights from the nutrition science-literature in order to highlight some practices that practitioners may consider when treating individual patients. Notably, this piece is not meant to serve as a comprehensive review of the literature, but rather argue our perspective that nutritional interventions should be more widely considered among clinical psychiatrists. Nutritional psychiatry is in its infancy and more research is needed in this burgeoning low-risk and potentially high-yield field.

[Curcumin as an ajuvant treatment of depression: mechanisms of action and application prospects]

Curcumin, a natural compound found in the rhizomes of turmeric, has a pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. Rodent models of depression show that this activity is similar to the effect of antidepressants (AD). Experimental data indicate that this activity may be related to the effect of curcumin on the monoamine cycle, oxidative and nitrosative stress, neurogenesis, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal, and immune systems. A number of meta-analyzes indicate the effectiveness of the combined use of curcumin with antidepressants in the treatment of depression. The mechanism of action of curcumin, as well as the prospects for its further use are considered.

Neuroprotective effect of 25-Methoxyhispidol A against CCl4-induced behavioral alterations by targeting VEGF/BDNF and caspase-3 in mice

Brain oxidative stress and neuroinflammation have been implicated in various psychiatric disorders. The current study investigated the effect and mechanism of 25-Methoxyhispidol A (25-MHA) against CCl₄-induced anxiety and depression. Mice were challenged with CCl₄ (1 ml/kg; i.p.) after 30 min of 25-MHA (1, 5 and 10 mg/kg; i.p.) administration. Pretreatment with 25-MHA (10 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the anxiety and depression-like behavior in testing models. The oxidative stress induced by CCl₄ was significantly attenuated by pretreatment with 25-MHA. The immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis showed a reduction in kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and improvement in expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf-2) and heme oxygenase (HO)-1. In addition, 25-MHA significantly attenuated the CCl₄-mediated depletion of antioxidant enzymes in hippocampus (HC) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) region and reduced the expression of toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), along with a decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in HC and PFC region. Pretreatment with 25-MHA also showed an improved expression of neurotrophic factors i.e., brain derived growth factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Furthermore, 25-MHA inhibited malondialdehyde (MDA) and ammonia level in plasma, liver, HC and PFC regions of mice brain. 25-MHA also exhibited anti-apoptotic effect evident from the reduced expression of caspase-3 and decreased hippocampal DNA damage in comet assay. Furthermore, decreased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and corticosterone level, along with prevention of CCl₄-induced alterations in thickness of dentate gyrus and intact hepatic cells morphology, represented by hippocampal and liver histopathology, indicated the neuroprotective effect of 25-MHA.

Role of curcumin and its nanoformulations in neurotherapeutics: A comprehensive review

Curcumin, a dietary polyphenol and major constituent of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae), is extensively used as a spice in Asian countries. For ages, turmeric has been used in traditional medicine systems to treat various diseases, which was possible because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancerous, antiepileptic, antidepressant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, antiapoptotic, and antiproliferative effects. Curcumin has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, neurotrophic activities, which support its plausible neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disease. However, there is limited information available regarding the clinical efficacy of curcumin in neurodegenerative cases. The low oral bioavailability of curcumin may be speculated as a plausible factor that limits its effects in humans. Therefore, utilization of several approaches for the enhancement of bioavailability may improve clinical outcomes. Furthermore, the use of nanotechnology and a targeted drug delivery system may improve the bioavailability of curcumin. The present review is designed to summarize the molecular mechanisms pertaining to the neuroprotective effects of curcumin and its nanoformulations.

Curcumin loaded poly (amidoamine) dendrimer-plamitic acid core-shell nanoparticles as anti-stress therapeutics

Despite poor bioavailability of the drug and in vivo stability, curcumin has been reported for many pharmacological activities. Considering the potential of dendrimers as a drug delivery system, current research work is focused on the formulation and characterization of G4 PAMAM dendrimer-Palmitic acid core-shell nanoparticle-containing curcumin as antistress therapeutics to maximize the bioavailability of curcumin. Various formulations were prepared using different concentrations of palmitic acid and an optimized ratio of dendrimer and curcumin. All formulations were investigated for evaluation of physicochemical parameters, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro release. Particle size, PDI, zeta-potential, and encapsulation efficiency of final formulation was found to be 257.9 ± 0.365 nm, 0.10 ± 0.004, 3.59 ± 0.167 mV, and 80.87%, respectively. In vitro release studies have shown that 53.62 ± 2.431% of the drug was released after 24 h. In vivo studies pharmacokinetic parameters, drug distribution, pharmacological, and toxicological were also estimated using swiss albino mice. The findings have shown the selected formulation is better than plain curcumin formulation.

Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptors in the Locus Coeruleus Modulate the Enhancement of Active Coping Behaviors Induced by Chronic Predator Odor Inoculation in Mice

Stress inoculation has been proved to induce active coping behaviors to subsequent stress. However, the specific neural mechanisms underlying this effect remain unclear. In this study, a chronic and mild predator odor exposure model was established to investigate the effect of predator odor stress inoculation on behaviors in novel predator odor exposure, open field test and forced swimming test (FST), and on the expression of CRF receptors in locus coeruleus (LC) and dorsal raphe nuclei (DRN). The results showed that predator odor stress inoculation increased the active coping of mice under the severe stress environment without changing the stress response to a new predator odor. Meanwhile, in LC, the CRFR1 expression was increased by predator odor stress inoculation. These results suggested that predator odor stress inoculation can be used as an effective training method to improve active response to later severe stress and the function of CRFR1 in LC might be a potential underlying biological mechanism.

Antioxidant and Anti-Stress Effects of Taurine Against Electric Foot-Shock-Induced Acute Stress in Rats

In the present study, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti-stress activities of taurine in electric foot-shock stress model rats. Taurine supplementation markedly increased the hepatic glutathione (GSH) levels, compared to the levels in the stress group. In addition, activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were improved in the taurine-treated group. Plasma cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) levels were significantly reduced in the taurine-supplemented group compared to those in the stress group. In contrast, the levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were markedly increased in the taurine or betaine-treated group compared to those in the stress group. It may be concluded that taurine produces beneficial effects in the form of antioxidant status and biochemical alterations in foot-shock-induced acute stress in rats.

MAO-A Inhibitory Potential of Terpene Constituents from Ginger Rhizomes-A Bioactivity Guided Fractionation

BACKGROUND

In the search for novel antidepressive drug candidates, bioguided fractionation of nonpolar constituents present in the oleoresin from ginger rhizomes (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) was performed. This particular direction of the research was chosen due to the existing reports on the antidepressive properties of ginger total extract. The search for individual metabolites acting as MAO-A inhibitors, which correspond to the apparent effect of the total extract, is the subject of this work.

METHODS

Hexane extracts from ginger rhizomes were fractionated by using column chromatography (including silica gel impregnated with silver nitrate) and semi-preparative high-performance chromatography. For the activity assessment, an in vitro monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibition luminescence assay was performed on 10 purified terpenes: 1,8-cineole, α-citronellal, geraniol, β-sesquiphellandrene, γ-terpinen, geranyl acetate, isobornyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, (E,E)-α-farnesene, and α-zingiberene.

RESULTS

Geraniol and (-)-terpinen-4-ol were found to be the strongest enzyme inhibitors with inhibition of 44.1% and 42.5%, respectively, at a concentration of 125 µg/mL. No differences in the inhibition potential were observed for the different groups of terpenes: sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, or sesquiterpene alcohols; however, the two most active compounds contained a hydroxyl moiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Terpene constituents from ginger's extract were found to exhibit moderate inhibitory properties against the MAO-A enzyme in in vitro tests.

The antidepressant-like effect of trans-astaxanthin involves the serotonergic system

The antidepressant-like effect of trans-astaxanthin, a compound present rich in algae, was evaluated through behavioral and neurochemical methods. Results showed that trans-astaxanthin treatment significantly decreased the immobility time in force swim test and tail suspension test, but did not influence locomotor activity. Trans-astaxanthin treatment did not effectively antagonize hypothermia and ptosis induced by reserpine. However, pre-treatment with para-chlorophenylalanine abolished the anti-immobility effect of trans-astaxanthin in force swim and tail suspension test. These results suggested that the mechanism of antidepressant-like effect of trans-astaxanthin may involve the serotonergic system, but not noradrenaline system. This hypothesis was confirmed by neurochemical assays which showed that trans-astaxanthin increased serotonin levels in the hippocampus, frontal cortex, striatum and hypothalamus. Furthermore, our data suggested that trans-astaxanthin decreased indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase activity in the hippocampus, frontal cortex and hypothalamus. Inhibition of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activity subsequently decreased the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio and increased the serotonin/tryptophan ratio in these brain regions. Taken together, these findings indicate that the antidepressant-like effect of trans-astaxanthin involves the serotonergic system.

Curcumin for neuropsychiatric disorders: a review of in vitro, animal and human studies

Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a range of ailments. Its primary active constituent curcumin, can influence an array of biological activities. Many of these, such as its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and monoaminergic effects are dysregulated in several neuropsychiatric disorders. In this systematic review, in vitro, animal, and human studies investigating the potential of curcumin as a treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and autism are reviewed, and directions for future research are proposed. It is concluded that curcumin is a promising, natural agent for many of these conditions, however, further research utilising robust, clinical designs are essential. The problem associated with the poor oral bioavailability of standard curcumin also requires consideration. Currently the greatest support for the efficacy of curcumin is for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

Antidepressant-like effect of Kyllinga brevifolia rhizomes in male mice and chemical characterization of the components of the active ethyl acetate fraction

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kyllinga brevifolia rhizomes (Cyperaceae) are used in Paraguayan traditional medicine as a refreshing beverage, and is claimed to own digestive, diuretic, sedative, tonic, antispasmodic and sudorific properties. We have previously reported that its hydro- ethanolic rhizome extract possess sedative, anxiolytic and anti-aggressive-like effects in mice. However, information on its potential for treatment of syndromes associated with mood disorders is scarce.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study is to characterize the putative antidepressant-like effects of the hydro-ethanolic extract (CEKb) and the ethyl acetate fraction (KbF-ethyl-ac) obtained from the rhizome of K. brevifolia (Rottb) on male mice exposed to forced swimming test. Also, chemical characterization of the components of the active ethyl acetate fraction was described.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antidepressant-like effects of CEKb and KbF-ethyl-ac were measured using the forced swimming test (FST) performance of male mice in single (acute), short-term and chronic modalities. Treatments in all modalities were made 1h before swimming test. The KbF-ethyl-ac was analyzed by LC-DAD-ESI-MS and LC-ESI-MS/MS in order to identify the active components.

RESULTS

A single doses (1.0, 10.0 and 100.0mg/kg, p.o; p<0.05) of CEKb, in male mice provoked a significant reduction of the immobility time. Such effect was also observed with oral short-term treatment (7 days) with doses of 10.0 and 100.0mg/kg/day (p<0.05) of CEKb. Moreover, in the treatments during 14 days with doses of 1.0 (p<0.05), 10.0 (p<0.05), and 100.0 (p<0.001) mg/kg, p.o, of CEKb, a statistically significant reduction of the immobility time were induced. Additionally, in a different set of experiments acute dose of 1.0 (p<0.05) and 10.0 (p<0.01) mg/kg, p.o, of KbF-ethyl-ac in male mice, a significant reduction of the immobility time were provoked. Likewise, short-term treatment (7 days) with 1.0, and 10.0mg/kg (p<0.05); and after 14 days of treatment with 0.01 (p<0.01) 0.1 (p<0.001), 1.0 (p<0.001), and 10.0 (p<0.05) mg/kg of KbF-ethyl-ac in male mice, a statistically significant reduction of the immobility time, were observed. Imipramine 32mg/kg/days, i.p, induced a statistically significant reduction of immobility time and was used as positive control to validate the method employed. Moreover, it was noted important differences in the onset of the antidepressant-like effect in the FST, depending on the modality of treatment with CEKb or KbF-ethyl-ac (acute, short-term or chronic). Both, efficacy and potency were higher when repeated administration of CEKb was used, and surprisingly the efficacy of 1.0mg/kg of KbF-ethyl-ac (14 days) was similar to imipramine. The main constituents of the KbF-ethyl-ac were identified as catechins and their dimers by LC-DAD-ESI-MS and LC-ESI-MS/MS, according to their UV and MS spectra, as compared with the literature data. These results indicate an important antidepressant-like profile of action for the CEKb and KbF-ethyl-ac; and meanwhile, this effect may partially reside on catechins and their dimers isolated from the KbF-ethyl-ac.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that K. brevifolia exerts antidepressant -like effects in mice and suggest its potential usefulness for the treatment of depression in humans and encourage us to pursue the isolation of the molecules associated to the effect observed in CEKb and KbF-ethyl-ac, and to determine the mechanism of antidepressant-like effect of Kyllinga brevifolia using adequate complementary test.

A Chinese herbal decoction, reformulated from Kai-Xin-San, relieves the depression-like symptoms in stressed rats and induces neurogenesis in cultured neurons

Kai-Xin-San (KXS), a Chinese herbal decoction for anti-depression, is a combination of paired-herbs, i.e. Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma (GR)-Polygalae Radix (PR) and Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma (ATR)-Poria (PO). The make-up of the paired-herbs has been commonly revised according to syndrome differentiation and treatment variation of individual. Currently, an optimized KXS (KXS2012) was prepared by functional screening different combination of GR-PR and ATR-PO. The aim of this study was to verify the effect and underlying mechanism of KXS2012 against depression in chronic mild stress (CMS)-induced depressive rats and in primary cultures of neurons and astrocytes. In rat model, the CMS-induced depressive symptoms were markedly alleviated by the treatment with KXS2012. The CMS-suppressed neurotransmitter amounts were restored in the presence of KXS2012. And the expressions of neurotropic factors and its corresponding receptors were increased under KXS2012 administration. In cultured neurons, application of KXS2012 could promote neurogenesis by inducing the expression of synaptotagmin and dendritic spine density. Moreover, application of KXS2012 in cultured astrocytes, or in H2O2-stressed astrocytes, induced the expressions of neurotrophic factors: the increase might be associated with the modification of Erk1/2 and CREB phosphorylation. Our current results fully support the therapeutic efficacy of KXS2012 against depression in cell and animal models.

Incorporating Natural Products, Pharmaceutical Drugs, Self-Care and Digital/Mobile Health Technologies into Molecular-Behavioral Combination Therapies for Chronic Diseases

Merging pharmaceutical and digital (mobile health, mHealth) ingredients to create new therapies for chronic diseases offers unique opportunities for natural products such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), curcumin, resveratrol, theanine, or α-lipoic acid. These compounds, when combined with pharmaceutical drugs, show improved efficacy and safety in preclinical and clinical studies of epilepsy, neuropathic pain, osteoarthritis, depression, schizophrenia, diabetes and cancer. Their additional clinical benefits include reducing levels of TNFα and other inflammatory cytokines. We describe how pleiotropic natural products can be developed as bioactive incentives within the network pharmacology together with pharmaceutical drugs and self-care interventions. Since approximately 50% of chronically-ill patients do not take pharmaceutical drugs as prescribed, psychobehavioral incentives may appeal to patients at risk for medication non-adherence. For epilepsy, the incentive-based network therapy comprises anticonvulsant drugs, antiseizure natural products (n-3 PUFA, curcumin or/and resveratrol) coupled with disease-specific behavioral interventions delivered by mobile medical apps. The add-on combination of antiseizure natural products and mHealth supports patient empowerment and intrinsic motivation by having a choice in self-care behaviors. The incentivized therapies offer opportunities: (1) to improve clinical efficacy and safety of existing drugs, (2) to catalyze patient-centered, disease self-management and behavior-changing habits, also improving health-related quality-of-life after reaching remission, and (3) merging copyrighted mHealth software with natural products, thus establishing an intellectual property protection of medical treatments comprising the natural products existing in public domain and currently promoted as dietary supplements. Taken together, clinical research on synergies between existing drugs and pleiotropic natural products, and their integration with self-care, music and mHealth, expands precision/personalized medicine strategies for chronic diseases via pharmacological-behavioral combination therapies.

Comparison of boundary conditions to describe drying of turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomes using diffusion models

Turmeric is harvested with high moisture content and should be dried before the storage. It is observed that drying is quickest when the rhizomes are peeled and cut in small cylindrical pieces. In order to describe the process, normally a diffusive model is used, considering boundary condition of the first kind for the diffusion equation. This article uses analytical solutions considering boundaries conditions of the first (model 1) and third (model 2) kinds coupled to an optimizer to describe the drying process. It is shown that, for model 1, the fit of the analytical solution to the experimental data is biased, despite the good statistical indicators (chi-square χ(2) equal to 1.7095 × 10(-3) and coefficient of correlation R(2) of 0.9988). For model 2, the errors of the experimental points about the simulated curve can be considered randomly distributed, and the statistical indicators are much better than those obtained for model 1: χ(2) = 3.5596 × 10(-4) and R(2) = 0.9996.

Curcumin for the treatment of major depression: a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study

BACKGROUND

Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid derived from the spice turmeric, influences several biological mechanisms associated with major depression, namely those associated with monoaminergic activity, immune-inflammatory and oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways, hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and neuroprogression. We hypothesised that curcumin would be effective for the treatment of depressive symptoms in individuals with major depressive disorder.

METHODS

In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 56 individuals with major depressive disorder were treated with curcumin (500 mg twice daily) or placebo for 8 weeks. The primary measure was the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology self-rated version (IDS-SR30). Secondary outcomes included IDS-SR30 factor scores and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

RESULTS

From baseline to week 4, both curcumin and placebo were associated with improvements in IDS-SR30 total score and most secondary outcome measures. From weeks 4 to 8, curcumin was significantly more effective than placebo in improving several mood-related symptoms, demonstrated by a significant group x time interaction for IDS-SR30 total score (F1, 53=4.22, p=.045) and IDS-SR30 mood score (F1, 53=6.51, p=.014), and a non-significant trend for STAI trait score (F1, 48=2.86, p=.097). Greater efficacy from curcumin treatment was identified in a subgroup of individuals with atypical depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial support is provided for the antidepressant effects of curcumin in people with major depressive disorder, evidenced by benefits occurring 4 to 8 weeks after treatment.

LIMITATIONS

Investigations with larger sample sizes, over extended treatment periods, and with varying curcumin dosages are required.

Curcumin as a putative antidepressant

Due to inadequate efficacy of antidepressants, various new chemical entities and agents of natural origin have been tested for therapeutic efficacy both alone and to augment existing antidepressants, producing varied clinical results. This article summarizes the basic properties of curcumin and its mechanisms of action, with specific emphasis on the etiopathogenesis of depression, preclinical and current clinical evidence, and future research directions, to better understand the possible role of curcumin in treating depression. Curcumin may have antidepressant activities with diverse mechanisms of action involving primarily neurotransmitters, transcription pathways, neurogenesis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and inflammatory and immune pathways, as demonstrated in various animal and human studies. Current published randomized clinical trials suggest a small, non-significant benefit of curcumin for major depression. More adequately-powered and methodologically improved studies are mandatory.

Antidepressant-like effects of the hydroalcoholic extracts of Hemerocallis citrina and its potential active components

Background

Herbal therapies are potential alternatives and adjuncts for depression treatment. The present study aims to investigate the antidepressant-like effects of hydroalcoholic Hemerocallis citrina extracts and its potential neuropharmacological components.

Methods

Hydroalcoholic H. citrina extracts were phytochemically analyzed. Behavioral models, including tail suspension tests and open field tests, were performed to evaluate the antidepressant-like effects of the extracts. A possible mechanism was explored by analyzing brain monoamine neurotransmitters. Toxicity and histopathological analyses were performed to determine whether or not the extracts are safe for oral administration.

Results

The antidepressant-like effects of hydroalcoholic H. citrina extracts were mainly related to flavonoids, especially rutin and hesperidin. The extract prepared using 75% ethanol (i.e., HCE75) exhibited the highest active flavonoid content and activity. Orally administered 400 mg/kg of HCE75 significantly induced an antidepressant-like effect, whereas the combination of equivalent rutin and hesperidin dosages exhibited the same profiles. Isobologram analysis showed sub-additive antidepressant interactions between rutin and hesperidin. HCE75 (400 mg/kg, p.o.) increased the serotonin and dopamine levels in the central nervous system. Mortality and lesions were not observed upon oral administration of up to 5000 mg/kg HCE75.

Conclusions

The antidepressant-like effects of hydroalcoholic H. citrina extracts are mainly related to flavonoids, especially rutin and hesperidin. The serotonergic and dopaminergic systems may have major roles. The active extract is toxicologically safe for oral administration.

Antidepressant-like behavioral, anatomical, and biochemical effects of petroleum ether extract from maca (Lepidium meyenii) in mice exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress

Maca has been consumed as a medical food in Peru for thousands of years, and exerts anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Our present study aimed to evaluate the behavior and anatomical and biochemical effects of petroleum ether extract from maca (ME) in the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model of depression in mice. Three different doses of maca extract (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) were orally administrated in the six-week CUMS procedure. Fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) was used as a positive control drug. Maca extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) significantly decreased the duration of immobility time in the tail suspension test. After treatment with maca extract (250 and 500 mg/kg), the granule cell layer in the dentate gyrus appeared thicker. Maca extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) also induced a significant reduction in corticosterone levels in mouse serum. In mouse brain tissue, after six weeks of treatment, noradrenaline and dopamine levels were increased by maca extract, and the activity of reactive oxygen species was significantly inhibited. Serotonin levels were not significantly altered. These results demonstrated that maca extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) showed antidepressant-like effects and was related to the activation of both noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems, as well as attenuation of oxidative stress in mouse brain.

Effects of curcumin (Curcuma longa) on learning and spatial memory as well as cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation in adult and aged mice by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor and CREB signaling

Aging is a progressive process, and it may lead to the initiation of neurological diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of wild Indian Curcuma longa using a Morris water maze paradigm on learning and spatial memory in adult and D-galactose-induced aged mice. In addition, the effects on cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation were assessed by immunohistochemistry for Ki67 and doublecortin (DCX) respectively. The aging model in mice was induced through the subcutaneous administration of D-galactose (100 mg/kg) for 10 weeks. C. longa (300 mg/kg) or its vehicle (physiological saline) was administered orally to adult and D-galactose-treated mice for the last three weeks before sacrifice. The administration of C. longa significantly shortened the escape latency in both adult and D-galactose-induced aged mice and significantly ameliorated D-galactose-induced reduction of cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation in the subgranular zone of hippocampal dentate gyrus. In addition, the administration of C. longa significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated CREB and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the subgranular zone of dentate gyrus. These results indicate that C. longa mitigates D-galactose-induced cognitive impairment, associated with decreased cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation, by activating CREB signaling in the hippocampal dentate gyrus.

Efficacy and safety of curcumin in major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial

Curcumin, an active ingredient of Curcuma longa Linn (Zingiberaceae), has shown potential antidepressant-like activity in animal studies. The objectives of this trial were to compare the efficacy and safety of curcumin with fluoxetine in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Herein, 60 patients diagnosed with MDD were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio for six weeks observer-masked treatment with fluoxetine (20 mg) and curcumin (1000 mg) individually or their combination. The primary efficacy variable was response rates according to Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, 17-item version (HAM-D17 ). The secondary efficacy variable was the mean change in HAM-D17 score after six weeks. We observed that curcumin was well tolerated by all the patients. The proportion of responders as measured by the HAM-D17 scale was higher in the combination group (77.8%) than in the fluoxetine (64.7%) and the curcumin (62.5%) groups; however, these data were not statistically significant (P = 0.58). Interestingly, the mean change in HAM-D17 score at the end of six weeks was comparable in all three groups (P = 0.77). This study provides first clinical evidence that curcumin may be used as an effective and safe modality for treatment in patients with MDD without concurrent suicidal ideation or other psychotic disorders. .

Screening of the antidepressant-like effect of the traditional Chinese medicinal formula Si-Ni-San and their possible mechanism of action in mice

BACKGROUND

The traditional Chinese medicine formula Si-Ni-San has well therapeutic applications in improvement of mental diseases including depression. However, the neuropharmacological and neuroendocrine mechanisms of the formula on antidepressant-like action have not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

Herein, we explored the antidepressant-like effect and its mechanism of Si-Ni-San.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acute effect of Si-Ni-San on the immobility time was assessed in the mouse forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Moreover, we investigated the neurochemical, neuroendocrine, and neurotrophin systems involved in the antidepressant-like effect of this formula.

RESULTS

Si-Ni-San significantly decreased the immobility time after acute treatment in the mouse TST (1300 mg/kg) but not in the FST compared with the control group. In addition, pretreatment of mice with PCPA or AMPT prevented the anti-immobility effect of Si-Ni-San (1300 mg/kg) in the TST. Moreover, acute Si-Ni-San (1300 mg/kg) decreased serum corticosterone levels, elevated serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA) levels without affecting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the whole brain exposed to TST.

CONCLUSION

The acute antidepressant-like action of Si-Ni-San is mediated by the monoaminergic and neuroendocrine systems although underlying mechanism still remains to be further elucidated, and this formula should be further investigated as an alternative therapeutic approach for the treatment of depression.

Antidepressant-like effect of oleanolic acid in mice exposed to the repeated forced swimming test

The study aimed to explore the antidepressant-like effect of oleanolic acid and its possible mechanism related to the monoaminergic system and neurotrophin in mice exposed to the repeated forced swimming test (FST). Both the duration and the latency of immobility affected by oleanolic acid (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) were evaluated in the FST repeated at intervals on days 1, 7 and 14, followed by neurochemical and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) analyses in the mouse brain regions of frontal cortex and whole hippocampus. A repeated analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that over retesting the immobility time increased, whereas latency to immobility tended to decrease. Minute-by-minute analysis showed that immobility time also increased during the 4-min course of the test. In addition, post-hoc Dunnett's test demonstrated that sub-chronic and chronic, but not acute, oleanolic acid treatment reduced the immobility time (sub-chronic: 20 mg/kg, 43.5%; chronic: 10 mg/kg, 19.3%; 20 mg/kg, 31.8%) and increased the latency to immobility (sub-chronic: 10 mg/kg, 60.6%; 20 mg/kg, 80.1%; chronic: 10 mg/kg, 121.8%; 20 mg/kg, 140.8%; 40 mg/kg, 80.0%). Furthermore, chronic administration of oleanolic acid significantly increased serotonin (5-HT) levels (frontal cortex: 44.5%, 41.9%, 27.5% for 10, 20, 40 mg/kg; hippocampus: 57.2%, 80.9% for 10, 20 mg/kg), decreased 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA)/5-HT ratio (frontal cortex: 31.6%, 30.1%, 23.5%; hippocampus: 40.6%, 47.7%, 29.2% for 10, 20, 40 mg/kg) and elevated norepinephrine (NE) levels (hippocampus: 20 mg/kg, 45.4%) but did not alter dopamine (DA) levels. Moreover, BDNF levels in the two brain regions were also elevated by chronic oleanolic acid treatment (frontal cortex: 20 mg/kg, 67.2%; hippocampus: 10 mg/kg, 36.4%; 20 mg/kg, 55.1%). Taken together, these findings imply that functions of 5-HT, NE and BDNF may be involved in the antidepressant-like effect of oleanolic acid.

Protective effect of curcumin against cardiac dysfunction in sepsis rats

CONTEXT

The heart is one of the target organs susceptible to attack by sepsis, and protection of the cardiac function in sepsis or alleviation dysfunction caused by sepsis appears a serious and urgent problem.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to explore the effect of curcumin on myocardial injury induced by sepsis and to explore the therapeutic effect of curcumin in managing sepsis induced cardiac dysfunction.

METHODS

Cecal ligation and puncture surgery were used to establish the sepsis model. Curcumin was administered by peritoneal injection (200 mg/kg/d, 3 days). The effects of curcumin on the cardiac functions [Ejection Fraction (EF), Fractional Shortening (FS), Cardiac Output (CO), Heart Rate (HR)], body temperature, cTn I and superoxide dismutase levels, malondialdehyde content (an index of lipid peroxidation), and myocardial histopathological and ultrastructural studies were carried out.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that treatment of rats with curcumin significantly decreased elevated levels of cTn I and MDA (p < 0.05) in plasma, and increase the levels of SOD (p < 0.05) after CLP. Moreover, curcumin markedly enhanced the myocardial contractility by increasing the decreased EF and FS in rats with sepsis induced by CLP (p < 0.05). In addition, curcumin could alleviate the myocardial inflammation and structure damage of myocardial cells in sepsis induced by CLP.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results from the present study demonstrate that curcumin has the protective effects on cardiac function in rats with sepsis and curcumin could be considered as an effective and safe therapeutic agent for the management of sepsis induced cardiac dysfunction.

Anxiolytic effects of flavonoids in animal models of posttraumatic stress disorder

The dysregulation of the serotonergic system has long been recognized as an important factor underlying the pathophysiology of PTSD. To date, SSRIs have already been established as the firstline pharmacotherapeutic agents for treating acute and chronic PTSD. However, SSRIs largely have several disadvantages which limit their utility. Our previous study has also shown that administration of the total flavonoids, isolated from the extract of Xiaobuxin-Tang (XBXT, mild mind-easing decoction), comprising four Chinese medicines including Haematitum, Flos Inulae, Folium Phyllostachydis Henonis, and Semen Sojae Preparatum, exerted significant antidepressant-like effect in chronically mildly stressed rats, possibly mediated by serotonergic activation. Since the central serotonergic dysfunction is an important and well-known cause mediating the pathophysiology of trauma-related symptoms in PTSD, it is reasonable to predict that flavonoids may exert therapeutic effects on PTSD in animal models. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the effect of flavonoids in alleviating the enhanced anxiety and fear response induced in two PTSD animal models. Ser, an SSRI, was administered as a positive control. Furthermore, the changes of brain monoaminergic neurotransmitters after chronic flavonoids administration have also been assessed in SPS-treated rats.

Multiple antidepressant potential modes of action of curcumin: a review of its anti-inflammatory, monoaminergic, antioxidant, immune-modulating and neuroprotective effects

Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of the popular Indian spice turmeric and has attracted increasing attention for the treatment of a range of conditions. Research into its potential as a treatment for depression is still in its infancy, although several potential antidepressant mechanisms of action have been identified. Research completed to date on the multiple effects of curcumin is reviewed in this paper, with a specific emphasis on the biological systems that are compromised in depression. The antidepressant effects of curcumin in animal models of depression are summarised, and its influence on neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine is detailed. The effects of curcumin in moderating hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal disturbances, lowering inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, neuroprogression and intestinal hyperpermeability, all of which are compromised in major depressive disorder, are also summarised. With increasing interest in natural treatments for depression, and efforts to enhance current treatment outcomes, curcumin is presented as a promising novel, adjunctive or stand-alone natural antidepressant.

Antidepressant-like behavioral, neurochemical and neuroendocrine effects of naringenin in the mouse repeated tail suspension test

Our previous study demonstrated that the citrus bioflavonoid naringenin ameliorated behavioral alterations via the central serotonergic and noradrenergic systems in the tail suspension test (TST) induced mice. To better understand its pharmacological activity, mice were submitted to three 6min-TSTs one week apart (Day 1: test, Day 7: retest 1, Day 14: retest 2) followed by hippocampal glucocorticoid receptor (GR), monoamine neurotransmitters and serum corticosterone measurement. The results suggested that repeated TST detected the gradual increase in the efficacy of naringenin over time, additionally 1-day (20 mg/kg), 7-day (10, 20 mg/kg) and 14-day (5, 10, 20 mg/kg) naringenin treatment markedly decreased the immobility time. Moreover, administration of naringenin for 14 days (20 mg/kg) increased hippocampal serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE) and GR levels, and reduced serum corticosterone levels in mice exposed to the repeated TST. Overall, the present study indicated that the re-exposure would facilitate the detection of the anti-immobility effects of antidepressant drugs in the mouse TST, and clearly demonstrated that the antidepressant-like effect of naringenin may be mediated by an interaction with neuroendocrine and neurochemical systems.

Ethnopharmacological survey of native remedies commonly used against infectious diseases in the tropical island of Mauritius

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Infectious diseases (IDs) still remain a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. This study has been geared to gather primary ethnopharmacological information on common native remedies (NRs) used to treat and/or manage common infectious diseases from different regions of Mauritius, a tropical multicultural island in the Indian Ocean. Given the dearth of updated information on traditional medicine of Mauritius, this work can provide an opportunity to establish valuable primary information on the different NRs used by the local people and hence open new perspectives for further pharmacological research.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To collect, preserve and document primary ethnopharmacological data from the local population concerning NRs commonly used against IDs in the tropical island of Mauritius.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Face to face interviews were conducted with Mauritians and herbalists (n=307) using a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative ethnobotany parameters such as informant consensus factor (F(IC)), fidelity level (FL), use value (UV) and variety of use (VU) were used for herbal and animal products. Statistical analysis such as Pearson correlation and Chi-squared test were performed to delineate any association.

RESULTS

It was found that 94.8% of the local people claimed that managing IDs with NRs was part of their culture and have been using it since childhood. A total of 39 plant species belonging to 24 families and 9 animal species were reported to be traditionally used in the formulation of herbal remedies and animal products, respectively. Sociodemographic characteristics (gender, age, place of residence and income) had a significant (p<0.01) impact on the use of these NRs. The most relevant family contributing much to the medicinal flora was Zingiberaceae (No of citation=301). The average F(IC) for all ailments for medicinal plants and animal products were 0.963 and 0.972, respectively. Acalypha indica L. had the highest FL (0.83) for skin and subcutaneous tissue problems. Panoply of animal products (Anguilla japonica, Periplaneta americana and Helix aspersa) were culturally used, whereby products from Bos taurus, (42.0%) were the most utilized zootherapy. Other remedies used in concurrence with herbal and animal products involved cultural rituals and prayers that were never reported in previous studies. Therapeutic properties of some herbal remedies reported correlated to some extent with those of previous studies while others have open potential perspectives for further research as their chemistry and pharmacology have not been published.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the plethora of novel information obtained from the present survey, it is obvious that the indigenous population still relies to a great extent on NRs which need to be preserved and used sustainably. Nonetheless, further research is needed to probe the possible active constituents that could be the basis of an evidence based investigation to discover new drugs.

Multitargeting by turmeric, the golden spice: From kitchen to clinic

Although much has been published about curcumin, which is obtained from turmeric, comparatively little is known about turmeric itself. Turmeric, a golden spice obtained from the rhizome of the plant Curcuma longa, has been used to give color and taste to food preparations since ancient times. Traditionally, this spice has been used in Ayurveda and folk medicine for the treatment of such ailments as gynecological problems, gastric problems, hepatic disorders, infectious diseases, and blood disorders. Modern science has provided the scientific basis for the use of turmeric against such disorders. Various chemical constituents have been isolated from this spice, including polyphenols, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenoids, sterols, and alkaloids. Curcumin, which constitutes 2-5% of turmeric, is perhaps the most-studied component. Although some of the activities of turmeric can be mimicked by curcumin, other activities are curcumin-independent. Cell-based studies have demonstrated the potential of turmeric as an antimicrobial, insecticidal, larvicidal, antimutagenic, radioprotector, and anticancer agent. Numerous animal studies have shown the potential of this spice against proinflammatory diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, depression, diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis. At the molecular level, this spice has been shown to modulate numerous cell-signaling pathways. In clinical trials, turmeric has shown efficacy against numerous human ailments including lupus nephritis, cancer, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, acne, and fibrosis. Thus, a spice originally common in the kitchen is now exhibiting activities in the clinic. In this review, we discuss the chemical constituents of turmeric, its biological activities, its molecular targets, and its potential in the clinic.