Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of anacardic acids from Amphipterygium adstringens

In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Hemolytic and Cytotoxic Effects of Traditional Mexican Medicinal Plant Extracts on Human Erythrocytes and Cell Cultures

Plant extracts of fifteen plants of ethnomedicinal use in Mexico were analyzed to provide scientific knowledge of their medicinal properties through the evaluation of different biological activities such as anti-hemolytic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects in normal cells. Therefore, methanolic extracts were obtained from each of the plants by the Soxhlet extraction. The hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes was evaluated, as was their potential to protect the erythrocyte membrane against the 2,2'-azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. Finally, the toxicity of the extracts in normal cell cultures of African green monkey kidney cells (Vero) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction method. Most of the extracts showed low hemolytic activity and high anti-hemolytic activity as well as high selectivity indices (SI) and antioxidant effects. Extracts of H. inuloides, J. dioica, and J. spicigera induced cell proliferation of the Vero cells. K. daigremontiana, A. adstringens, S. mexicanum, J. spicigera, L. tridentata, and M. tenuiflora extracts showed PBMC cell proliferation. In the present study, it was observed that the evaluated extracts did not present hemolytic activity, and some presented low toxicity when Vero and PBMC cell cultures were exposed. In conclusion, traditionally used plants possess beneficial health properties, and it is hoped that this study will serve as a basis for understanding the biological effects of traditionally used plants and may complement future studies.

Metal complexes featuring a quinazoline schiff base ligand and glycine: synthesis, characterization, DFT and molecular docking analyses revealing their potent antibacterial, anti-helicobacter pylori, and Anti-COVID-19 activities

Mixed ligand complexes of manganese(II), cobalt(II), copper(II), and cadmium(II)with an innovative Schiff base ligand denoted as (L1), 4-(2-((1E,2E)-1-(2-(p-tolyl)hydrazineylidene)propan-2-ylidene)hydrazineyl), served as the principal ligand, while glycine (L2) was employed as secondary ligand were successfully effectively characterized through a comprehensive set of analyses, including Elemental analysis, UV-Visible, FT-IR, Mass spectra, and conductometric measurements. Density functional theory (DFT) computations were executed to discern the enduring electronic arrangement, the energy gap, dipole moment and chemical hardness of the hybrid ligand assemblies. The proposed geometry for the complexes is a distorted octahedral structure. The antimicrobial efficacy of these compounds was assessed against a range of bacterial and fungal strains. Notably, these complexes exhibited promising antimicrobial activities, with the cadmium (II) complex demonstrating superior efficacy towards all tested organisms. These compounds were also examined for their antibiotic properties against H. pylori to explore their broader medical potential. The Schiff base ligand and its corresponding metal complexes displayed substantial potential as an antibiotic against H. pylori. Additionally, the antitumor potential of the synthesized complexes was assessed against MCF-7 (Breast carcinoma) cells-the Cu (II) complex demonstrated superior activity with the lowest IC50 value compared to cisplatin. Moreover, it exhibited reduced cytotoxicity towards normal cells (VERO cells) compared to cisplatin, establishing it as the most potent compound in the study. Furthermore, molecular docking was explored of the Schiff base ligand and its corresponding cadmium(II) complex. The analysis of the docking study yielded valuable structural insights that can be effectively utilized in conducting inhibition studies for example against COVID-19. This comprehensive study highlights these synthesized compounds' multifaceted applications and promising bioactive properties.

Synthesis of novel chitosan-Schiff bases nanoparticles for high efficiency Helicobacter pylori inhibition

Two chitosan Schiff bases were synthesized by condensation of chitosan with 2-(4-formylphenoxy)-N-phenylacetamide and N-(4-bromophenyl)-2-(4-formylphenoxy) acetamide denoted as Cs-SBA and Cs-SBBr, respectively. The molecular structures of the resulting chitosan derivatives were characterized using FTIR and 1HNMR and their thermal properties were investigated by TGA. These derivatives were treated with sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) to produce Cs Schiff base nanoparticles. The nanoparticles physicochemical properties were determined by FTIR, XRD, TEM, and zeta potential analysis. The antimicrobial action against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) was evaluated and the results indicated that the anti-H. pylori activity had minimal inhibitory concentration MIC values of 15.62 ± 0.05 and 3.9 ± 0.03 μg/mL for Cs-SBA and Cs-SBBr nanoparticles (Cs-SBA NPs and Cs-SBBr NPs), respectively. The better biologically active nanoparticles, Cs-SBBr NPs, were tested for their cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) inhibitory potential. Cs-SBBr NPs demonstrated COX enzyme inhibition activity against COX-2 (IC50 4.5 ± 0.165 μg/mL) higher than the conventional Indomethacin (IC50 0.08 ± 0.003 μg/mL), and Celecoxib (IC50 0.79 ± 0.029 μg/mL). Additionally, the cytotoxicity test of Cs-SBBr NPs showed cytotoxic effect on Vero cells (CCL-81) with IC50 = 17.95 ± 0.12 μg/mL which is regarded as a safe compound. Therefore, Cs-SBBr NPs may become an alternative to cure H. pylori and prevent gastric cancer.

Synthesis and biological evaluation against H. pylori of chitosan menthone Schiff base hybrid with different types of inorganic nanoparticles

The production of novel natural medicines for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has lately attracted a lot of interest. Some bacterial infections have traditionally been alleviated by terpenes. The present work intended to examine the impact of several chitosan menthone Schiff base nanocomposites on the treatment of H. pylori infection as well as on its anti-inflammatory capacity. Chitosan (Cs) was condensed with menthone with different molar ratios of Cs:menthone (1:0.5, 1:1, and 1:2) to produce chitosan Schiff bases namely; Cs-SB1, Cs-SB2, and Cs-SB3, respectively. Cs-SB3 Schiff base nanocomposites were prepared individually by adding 2%Ag, 2%Se, (1%Ag + 1%Se), and 2%Fe2O3 nanoparticles to produce compounds denoted as Cs-SB-Ag, Cs-SB-Se, Cs-SB-Ag/ Se, and Cs-SB-Fe, respectively. The anti-H. pylori activity of Cs-SB-Se was detected at a minimal inhibitory concentration MIC of 1.9 μg/mL making it the most biologically active compound in our study. Cs-SB-Se nanocomposite was tested for its cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) inhibitory potential which demonstrated inhibitory efficacy towards COX enzymes with inhibition value against COX-1 (IC50 = 49.86 ± 1.784 μg/mL) and COX-2 (IC50 = 12.64 ± 0.463 μg/mL) which were less than the well-known Celecoxib (22.65 ± 0.081 and 0.789 ± 0.029 μg/mL) and Indomethacin (0.035 ± 0.001 and 0.08 ± 0.003 μg/mL) inhibitors. The selectivity index SI = 3.94 for tested nanocomposites indicated higher selectivity for COX-1. The cytotoxicity of the Cs-SB-Se nanocomposite was evaluated in Vero cells (CCL-81) and it showed that at a concentration of 62.5 μg/mL, cell viability was 85.43 %.

CuO nanoparticles for green synthesis of significant anti-Helicobacter pylori compounds with in silico studies

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a universal health intimidation as mentioned by the World Health Organization. The primary causal agent linked to a number of illnesses, including inflammation and the development of stomach ulcers, is Helicobacter pylori. Since, H. pylori develops antibiotic resistance quickly, current H. pylori treatment approaches are becoming less effective. Our research aims to highlight novel formulation antibiotics using CuO-NPs as catalysts and studied their activity as anti-helicobacter pylori supported by computational studies (POM analysis and molecular docking) software. They were designed for anti-Helicobacter Pylori action. All compounds revealed a bactericidal effect better than the reference McFarland standards.

Anacardium occidentale leaves extract and riboceine mitigate hyperglycemia through anti-oxidative effects and modulation of some selected genes associated with diabetes

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the leading causes of death globally and complications of DM have become a major health concern. Anacardium occidentale is a plant widely recognized for its hypoglycemic properties and traditionally used in developing nations as remedy for DM treatment. Riboceine is a supplement that enhances production of glutathione and known for its vital role in supporting cellular function. This study was designed to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of riboceine and ethanolic extract of A. occidentale leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Method

Twenty-nine adult male Wistar rats were induced with DM intraperitoneally using a single dose of STZ (70 mg/kg). The STZ-induced rats were divided into groups and administered the same dose (100 mg/kg) of A. occidentale leaves extract and riboceine via gastric gavage at the dose (100 mg/kg) for seventeen days while metformin (40 mg/kg) was used as positive control. Fasting blood glucose and weight of the model rats were examined periodically. Activities of total protein, creatinine, urea, antioxidants (SOD, GSH and GPX), and level of serum insulin were determined. Expression of diabetes related genes including pancreas (Insulin, pdx-1, P16NK4A, and Mki-67), Liver (FAS, ACC, and GFAT) and KIM-1 genes were also determined.

Results

Data showed that treatment of STZ-induced diabetic rats with A. occidentale and riboceine at the same dose significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated hyperglycemic effects by improving hepatic and renal functions and antioxidants, preventing hepatic fat accumulation by downregulation of ACC, FAS and GFAT expression, improving β-cell functions through up-regulation of pancreatic insulin, P16NK4A, Mki-67 and pdx-1 expression. Induction of diabetes upregulated mRNA expression of KIM-1, which was ameliorated after treatment of the rats with A. occidentale and riboceine.

Conclusion

The results obtained in this study demonstrate significant antidiabetic properties of ethanolic extract of A. occidentale and riboceine.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Acacia nilotica Flower Extract against Helicobacter pylori and Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Silico

The resistance of cancer and Helicobacter pylori to several drugs reflects a worldwide problem, and it has been the intention of numerous researchers to overcome this problem. Thus, in this study, Acacia nilotica fruits were subjected to HPLC analysis to detect their phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Moreover, A. nilotica's anti-H. pylori activity and its inhibitory activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2 cells) were reported. Various compounds with different concentrations, such as ferulic acid (5451.04 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (4572.26 µg/mL), quercetin (3733.37 µg/mL), rutin (2393.13 µg/mL), gallic acid (2116.77 µg/mL), cinnamic acid (69.72 µg/mL), hesperetin (121.39 µg/mL) and methyl gallate (140.45 µg/mL), were detected. Strong anti-H. pylori activity at 31 mm was reported, compared to the positive control of the 21.67 mm inhibition zone. Moreover, the MIC and MBC were 7.8 µg/mL and 15.62 µg/mL, respectively, while the MIC and MBC of the positive control were 31.25 µg/mL. The concentration of MBC at 25%, 50% and 75% reflected H. pylori's anti-biofilm activity of 70.38%, 82.29% and 94.22%, respectively. Good antioxidant properties of the A. nilotica flower extract were documented at 15.63, 62.50, 250 and 1000 µg/mL, causing the DPPH scavenging percentages of 42.3%, 52.6%, 65.5% and 80.6%, respectively, with a IC50 of 36.74 µg/mL. HepG-2 cell proliferation was inhibited (91.26%) using 500 µg/mL of flower extract with an IC50 of 176.15 µg/mL, compared to an IC50 of 395.30 µg/mL used against human normal melanocytes. Molecular docking was applied to investigate ferulic acid with the H. pylori (4HI0) crystal structure to determine the best binding mode that interacted most energetically with the binding sites. Molecular docking indicated that ferulic acid was a proper inhibitor for the 4HI0 protein enzyme of H. pylori. A low energy score (-5.58 Kcal/mol) was recorded as a result of the interaction of ferulic acid with the residue's SER 139 active site caused by the O 29 atom, which was important for its antibacterial activity.

Masticadienonic acid from Chios mastic gum mitigates colitis in mice via modulating inflammatory response, gut barrier integrity and microbiota

BACKGROUND

Chios mastic gum (CMG) is a traditional Greek medicine used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the bioactive compounds of CMG and the mechanisms of action for controlling of IBD remain unknown.

PURPOSE

Masticadienonic acid (MDA) is one of the most abundant constituents isolated from CMG. This study aims to investigate the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of MDA in the pathogenesis of colitis.

METHODS

The effects of MDA were evaluated using a dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis mouse model. The body and spleen weight and colon length and weight were measured and the clinical symptoms were analysed. Blood samples were collected to analyse the level of serum inflammatory markers. Colon tissues were processed for histopathological examination, evaluation of the epithelial barrier function, and investigation of the probable mechanisms of action. The gut microbiota composition was also studied to determine the mechanism for the beneficial effects of MDA on IBD.

RESULTS

MDA could ameliorate the severity of IBD by increasing the body weight and colon length, reducing spleen weight, disease activity index, and histological score. MDA treatments reduce the release of serum inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) via inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB signalling pathways. MDA supplementation could also improve the intestinal barrier function by activating the NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) signalling pathway and restoring the expression of tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin. In addition, MDA administration modulates the gut microbiota composition in DSS-induced colitis mice.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that MDA attenuated experimental colitis by restoring intestinal barrier integrity, reducing inflammation, and modulating the gut microbiota. The present study provides novel insights into CMG-mediated remission of IBD and may facilitate the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for IBD.

Molecular Docking and Efficacy of Aloe vera Gel Based on Chitosan Nanoparticles against Helicobacter pylori and Its Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

The medicinal administration of Aloe vera gel has become promising in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications particularly with the development of the nanotechnology concept. Nowadays, effective H. pylori treatment is a global problem; therefore, the development of natural products with nanopolymers such as chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) could represent a novel strategy for the treatment of gastric infection of H. pylori. HPLC analysis of A. vera gel indicated the presence of chlorogenic acid as the main constituent (1637.09 µg/mL) with other compounds pyrocatechol (1637.09 µg/mL), catechin (1552.92 µg/mL), naringenin (528.78 µg/mL), rutin (194.39 µg/mL), quercetin (295.25 µg/mL), and cinnamic acid (37.50 µg/mL). CSNPs and A. vera gel incorporated with CSNPs were examined via TEM, indicating mean sizes of 83.46 nm and 36.54 nm, respectively. FTIR spectra showed various and different functional groups in CSNPs, A. vera gel, and A. vera gel incorporated with CSNPs. Two strains of H. pylori were inhibited using A. vera gel with inhibition zones of 16 and 16.5 mm, while A. vera gel incorporated with CSNPs exhibited the highest inhibition zones of 28 and 30 nm with resistant and sensitive strains, respectively. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 15.62 and 3.9 µg/mL, while the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 15.60 and 7.8 µg/mL with MBC/MIC 1 and 2 indexes using A. vera gel and A. vera gel incorporated with CSNPs, respectively, against the resistance strain. DPPH Scavenging (%) of the antioxidant activity exhibited an IC₅₀ of 138.82 μg/mL using A.vera gel extract, and 81.7 μg/mL when A.vera gel was incorporated with CSNPs. A.vera gel incorporated with CSNPs enhanced the hemolysis inhibition (%) compared to using A.vera gel alone. Molecular docking studies through the interaction of chlorogenic acid and pyrocatechol as the main components of A. vera gel and CSNPs with the crystal structure of the H. pylori (4HI0) protein supported the results of anti-H. pylori activity.

Wound healing activity of the hydroalcoholic extract and the main metabolites of Amphipterygium adstringens (cuachalalate) in a rat excision model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The bark of Amphipterygium adstringens Schiede ex Schltdl (Anacardiaceae), commonly known as 'cuachalalate' has been used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of skin and oral lesions, gastric ulcers, and other conditions. The use as wound healing of the bark of this plant has been known since before the Spanish conquest of Mexico. Its uses are mentioned in the first writings of the Spanish in the 16th century. It is important to highlight that its use for wound healing treatment has no scientific previous reports.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objectives of this study were to determine the wound healing effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of the stem bark of Amphipterygium adstringens and its main metabolites, using a model of excision in the back of Wistar rats. To evaluate its antimicrobial effect against common bacteria that living on the skin of wounds and to evaluate its effect on angiogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hydroalcoholic extract of cuachalalate (HAE, 10 mg/wound/day), the 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic acid (3 MA, 300 μg/wound/day), the masticadienoic acid (MA, 300 μg/wound/day), and a mixture of anacardic acids (ANA, 300 μg per wound) were tested in a murine excision model topically for 15 days, to evaluate their wound-healing effect. The results were reported in a wound closure percentage (n = 30 animals per treatment curve), using pirfenidone (PIR, 8% in vehicle) as a reference drug. In addition, histologic analysis was performed to evaluate the structure and quality of the scar. The effect on angiogenesis was assessed using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model (n = 6 eggs per treatment). The concentration evaluated for each treatment was 300 μg, using as proangiogenic reference drug the histamine (HIS, 5.6 μg) and as antiangiogenic drugs pirfenidone (9 μg) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, 9 μg). The antimicrobial test was performed against S. mutans, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa y E. coli using a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay.

RESULTS

The 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic (3 MA) acid and the anacardic acids (ANA) improve the wound closure by approximates 30% (similar to pirfenidone) in comparison with the control-treated with the vehicle in the proliferative phase. On the other hand, the hydroalcoholic extract of cuachalalate (HAE) did not show an effect on the wound healing process. The histologic analysis demonstrated that the three main metabolites showed an improvement in the scar structure. According to the CAM results, it is probable that the main action mechanism of the 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic acid and the anacardic acids is related to their proangiogenic effect. In addition, ANA showed a modest antimicrobial effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic acid and anacardic acids showed a better tissue structure and reduced the time closure of the wound. In addition, the anacardic acids showed antimicrobial effects and both metabolites promote angiogenesis, suggesting that these effects may be related to their action mechanism. These metabolites of cuachalalate could be a good alternative for wound healing treatment.

Amphipterygium adstringens (Schltdl.) Schiede ex Standl (Anacardiaceae): An Endemic Plant with Relevant Pharmacological Properties

Diseases, such as cancer, peptic ulcers, and diabetes, as well as those caused by drug-resistant infectious agents are examples of some of the world’s major public health problems. Amphipterygium adstringens (Schltdl.) Schiede ex Standl is an endemic tree to Mexico. Its stem bark has been used medicinally since pre-Hispanic times, but in recent decades it has been scientifically proven that it has properties that help counteract some diseases; extracts with organic solvents of the plant are outstanding for their anticancer, gastroprotective, and antimicrobial properties; terpenes and long-chain phenols have been identified as the main active compounds. Currently, overharvesting is causing a sharp reduction in natural populations due to an increase in demand for the stem bark by people seeking to improve their health and by national and transnational companies seeking to market it. Because of the growing interest of the world population and the scientific community, we reviewed recent studies on the bioactive properties of A. adstringens. Through the orderly and critical compendium of the current knowledge of A. adstringens, we provide a reference for future studies aimed at the rational use and protection of this valuable endemic natural resource.

Anacardic Acids from Amphipterygium adstringens Confer Cytoprotection against 5-Fluorouracil and Carboplatin Induced Blood Cell Toxicity While Increasing Antitumoral Activity and Survival in an Animal Model of Breast Cancer

Amphipterygium adstringens (cuachalalate) contains anacardic acids (AAs) such as 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid (6SA) that show immunomodulatory and antitumor activity with minimal or no secondary adverse effects. By contrast, most chemotherapeutic agents, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and carboplatin (CbPt), induce myelosuppression and leukopenia. Here, we investigated the myeloprotective and antineoplastic potential of an AA extract or the 6SA as monotherapy or in combination with commonly used chemotherapeutic agents (5-FU and CbPt) to determine the cytoprotective action of 6SA on immune cells. Treatment of Balb/c breast tumor-bearing female mice with an AA mixture or 6SA did not induce the myelosuppression or leukopenia observed with 5-FU and CbPt. The co-administration of AA mixture or isolated 6SA with 5-FU or CbPt reduced the apoptosis of circulating blood cells and bone marrow cells. Treatment of 4T1 breast tumor-bearing mice with the AA mixture or 6SA reduced tumor growth and lung metastasis and increased the survival rate compared with monotherapies. An increased effect was observed in tumor reduction with the combination of 6SA and CbPt. In conclusion, AAs have important myeloprotective and antineoplastic effects, and they can improve the efficiency of chemotherapeutics, thereby protecting the organism against the toxic effects of drugs such as 5-FU and CbPt.

Exploring the antidiabetic potential of compounds isolated from Anacardium occidentale using computational aproach: ligand-based virtual screening

Diabetes mellitus is becoming an important public health challenge worldwide and especially in developing nations. About 8.8 percent of the world adult population has been reported to have diabetes. Glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase 1 (GFAT1) catalyses the first committed step in the pathway for biosynthesis of hexosamines in mammals, and its inhibition has been thought to prevent hyperglycaemia. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), on the other hand, degrades hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an enzyme that plays a major role in the enhancement of glucose-dependent insulin secretion, making these two proteins candidate targets for diabetes. To find potential inhibitors of DPP-4 and GFAT1 from Anacardium occidentale using a computational approach, glide XP (extra precision) docking, Induced Fit Docking (IFD), Binding free energy of the compounds were determined against prepared crystal structure of DPP-4 and GFAT1 using the Maestro molecular interface of Schrödinger suites. The Lipinski's rule of five (RO5) and ADME properties of the compounds were assessed. Predictive models for both protein targets were built using AutoQSAR. This study identified 8 hit compounds. Most of these compounds passed the RO5 and were within the recommended range for defined ADME parameters. In addition, the predicted pIC50 for the hit compounds were promising. The results obtained from the present study can be used to design an antidiabetic drug.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40203-021-00084-z.

Epigallocatechin Gallate with Potent Anti-Helicobacter pylori Activity Binds Efficiently to Its Histone-like DNA Binding Protein

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-a human gastric pathogen-forms a major risk factor for the development of various gastric pathologies such as chronic inflammatory gastritis, peptic ulcer, lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues, and gastric carcinoma. The complete eradication of infection is the primary objective of treating any H. pylori-associated gastric condition. However, declining eradication efficiencies, off-target effects, and patient noncompliance to prolong and broad-spectrum antibiotic treatments has spurred the clinical interest to search for alternative effective and safer therapeutic options. As natural compounds are safe and privileged with high levels of antibacterial-activity, previous studies have tested and reported a plethora of such compounds with potential in vitro/in vivo anti-H. pylori activity. However, the mode of action of majority of these natural compounds is unclear. The present study has been envisaged to compile the information of various such natural compounds and to evaluate their binding with histone-like DNA-binding proteins of H. pylori (referred here as Hup) using in silico molecular docking-based virtual screening experiments. Hup-being a major nucleoid-associated protein expressed by H. pylori-plays a strategic role in its survival and persistent colonization under hostile stress conditions. The ligand with highest binding energy with Hup-that is, epigallocatechin-(-)gallate (EGCG)-was rationally selected for further computational and experimental testing. The best docking poses of EGCG with Hup were first evaluated for their solution stability using long run molecular dynamics simulations and then using fluorescence and nuclear magnetic resonance titration experiments which demonstrated that the binding of EGCG with Hup is fairly strong (the resultant apparent dissociation constant (k _D) values were equal to 2.61 and 3.29 ± 0.42 μM, respectively).

Anacardic 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid induces apoptosis in breast cancer tumor cells, immunostimulation in the host and decreases blood toxic effects of taxol in an animal model

Many antineoplastic agents induce myelosuppression and leukopenia as secondary effects in patients. The development of anticancer agents that simultaneously provoke antitumor immune response represents an important therapeutic advance. The administration of 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid (6SA) contributes to the antitumor immunity using 4T1 breast cancer cells in Balb/c female mice, with Taxol as a positive control and in cotreatment with 6SA (6SA + Taxol; CoT). Our results show that 6SA reduces tumor volume and size by inducing caspase-8-mediated apoptosis without reducing tumor infiltrated lymphocytes. Also, 6SA reduced lung metastasis and increased the proportion of immune cells in blood, lymph nodes and bone marrow; more evidently, in the proportion of tumor-infiltrated natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Taxol reduces helper and cytotoxic lymphocytes causing systemic immunosuppression and myelosuppression in bone marrow, whereas 6SA does not decrease any immune cell subpopulations in circulating blood and lymph nodes. More importantly, the CoT decreased the Taxol-induced cytotoxicity in circulating T cells and bone marrow. Treatment with 6SA increases the secretion of IL-2, IL-12, GM-CSF, TNF-α and IFN-γ and significantly reduces IL-10 and IL-17 secretion, suggesting that the reduction of regulatory T cells and tumor-associated macrophages contribute to the host control of tumor development. Finally, 6SA has an effective antineoplastic activity against breast cancer cells in an immunocompetent animal, reduces the myelosuppression and leukopenia that Taxol produces, improves the antitumoral immunological microenvironment and increases the overall survival of the animals improving the quality of life of patients with cancer.

Purified anacardic acids exert multiple neuroprotective effects in pesticide model of Parkinson's disease: in vivo and in silico analysis

Parkinson's disease (PD) induced by environmental toxins involves a multifactorial cascade of harmful factors, thus motivating the search for therapeutic agents able to act on the greatest number of molecular targets. This study evaluated the efficacy of 50 mg/kg purified anacardic acids (AAs), isolated from cashew nut shell liquid, on multiple steps of oxidative stress and inflammation induced by rotenone in the substantia nigra (SN) and striatum. Adult mice were divided into four groups: Control, rotenone, AAs + rotenone, and AAs alone. Lipoperoxidation, nitric oxide (NO) levels, and reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized gluthatione (GSSG) ratio were evaluated. NF-kB-p65, pro-IL-1β, cleaved IL-1β, metalloproteinase-9, Tissue Inhibitory Factor-1 (TIMP-1), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were assessed by Western blot. In silico studies were also made using the SwissADME web tool. Rotenone increased lipoperoxidation and NO production and reduced TH levels and GSH/GSSG ratio in both SN and striatum. It also enhanced NF-kB-p65, pro, and cleaved IL-1β, MMP-9, GFAP levels compared to control and AAs groups. The AAs alone reduced pro-IL-1β in the striatum while they augmented TIMP1 and reduced MMP-9 amounts in both regions. AAs reversed rotenone-induced effects on lipoperoxidation, NO production, and GSH/GSSG ratio, as well as increased TH and attenuated pro-IL-1β and MMP-9 levels in both regions, NF-kB-p65 in the SN and GFAP in the striatum. Altogether, the in vivo and in silico analysis reinforced multiple and defined molecular targets of AAs, identifying that they are promising neuroprotective drug candidates for PD, acting against oxidative and inflammatory conditions induced by rotenone.

Lifespan Extending and Oxidative Stress Resistance Properties of a Leaf Extracts from Anacardium occidentale L. in Caenorhabditis elegans

Anacardium occidentale (AO) contains a number of polyphenolic secondary metabolites with antioxidant activity. The objectives of this study were aimed at investigating the roles of AO leaf extracts in antioxidative stress and longevity, as well as their underlying mechanisms, in the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. AO extracts mediated the survival rate of nematodes under oxidative stress by attenuating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) via the DAF-16/FoxO and SKN-1/Nrf-2 signaling pathways. AO extracts stimulated the expression of stress response genes including SOD-3 and GST-4. Moreover, AO extracts exhibited antiaging activities and enhanced longevity. We observed improved pharyngeal pumping function, attenuation of pigment accumulation (lipofuscin), and an increased lifespan of the worms. Collectively, our results demonstrated that AO extracts exerted both oxidative stress resistance and antiaging properties in the C. elegans model and may lead to new agents to benefit humans in the near future.

The antineoplastic agent anacardic 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid produces immunomodulation in vivo via the activation of MAPKs

Anacardic 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid (6SA) is the active component of Amphipterygium adstringens, a plant used in traditional medicine for the treatment of malaria and vascular diseases and as an anti-bacterial and immune-modulatory agent. However, the effect of 6SA on the immune system remains unclear. In this study, we examined the immune-stimulatory activity of 6SA in 6-8-week-old female BALB/c mice. We found that treatment with 2 mg/kg of 6SA increased the proportions of macrophages after 7 and 14 days of treatment and of natural killer (NK) cells after 14 days of treatment in circulating blood. In lymph nodes, treatment with 6SA for 14 days increased the number of macrophages. In addition, 6SA increases in the systemic levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-12, IL-6 and IL-1β and of nitric oxide (NO). We observed an increase in the secretion of Granulocyte/Macrophage Colony Stimulation Factor (GM-CSF) that could explain the increase in the proportion of macrophages. Moreover, 6SA induced the classical activation of macrophages by increasing their expression of MHC-II and their production of TNF-α. These M1-polarised macrophages presented enhanced phagocytosis and NO secretion. This activation was due to induction of the phosphorylation of MAPKs such as ERK, JNK and p38 because specific inhibitors of the phosphorylation of these MAPKs reduced the 6SA-induced phagocytosis and NO and particularly, the secretion of GM-CSF in macrophages by inhibition of ERK. Despite these effects on macrophages, 6SA does not have any direct effect on the proportion of lymphocytes.

In vitro and in vivo anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of Casearia sylvestris leaf derivatives

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The number of bacterial strains that are resistant to multiple conventional antimicrobial agents is increasing. In this context, natural products have been widely used as a strategy to treat diseases caused by bacteria. Infections by Helicobacter pylori have attracted attention because they are directly related to severe gastric medical conditions. Casearia sylvestris Swartz, popularly known as guaçatonga, is largely employed to treat gastric disorders in Brazilian folk medicine. This plant species has aroused much interest mainly because it displays anti-inflammatory activity and can act as an antiulcer agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anti-H. pylori action of C. sylvestris leaf derivatives incorporated or not in a nanostructured drug delivery system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The essential oil (obtained by hydrodistillation) and ethanolic extract (obtained by maceration) were obtained from C. sylvestris leaves. The ethanolic extract was submitted to fractionation through solid phase extraction and column chromatography, to yield the ethanolic fractions. Hydrolyzed casearin J was achieved by submitting isolated casearin J to acid hydrolysis. The derivatives were chemically characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography (GC), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses. A nanostructured lipid system was used as drug delivery system. To assess the in vitro antibacterial activity of C. sylvestris leaf essential oil, ethanolic extract, and derivatives, microdilution, biofilm, and time-kill assays were performed against H. pylori ATCC 43504. Finally, the in vivo action was investigated by employing male Wistar rats experimentally infected with H. pylori.

RESULTS

Many C. sylvestris leaf derivatives presented significant in vitro activity against H. pylori. Among the derivatives, fraction 2 (F2) was the most effective. In vivo tests showed that both the ethanolic extract and F2 decreased the ulcerative lesion size, but only the ethanolic extract eradicated H. pylori from the gastric lesions. Incorporation of plant derivatives in nanostructured lipid system blunted the in vitro action, as demonstrated by the microdilution assay. However, this incorporation improved the ethanolic extract activity against biofilms.

CONCLUSION

C. sylvestris leaf derivatives are effective against H. pylori both in vitro and in vivo. According to phytochemical analyses, these derivatives are rich in terpenoids, which could be related to the anti-H. pylori action. Synergism could also underlie C. sylvestris efficacy judging from the fact that the sub-fractions and isolated compounds had lower activity than the extract. Incorporation in a nanostructured lipid system did not improve the activity of the compounds in our in vivo protocol.

Chemistry and Biology of Selected Mexican Medicinal Plants

Herbal medicines are an integral element of alternative medical care in Mexico, and the best testimony to their efficacy and cultural value is their persistence in contemporary Mexican marketplaces where the highest percentages of medicinal and aromatic plants are sold. This chapter summarizes current trends in research on medicinal plants in Mexico, with emphasis on work carried out at the authors' laboratories. The most relevant phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of a selected group of plants used widely for treating major national health problems are described.From this contribution, it is evident that in the last five decades a significant amount of research on medicinal plants has been performed by Mexican scientists. Such efforts have led to the publication of many research papers in noted peer-reviewed journals and technical books. The isolation and structural characterization of hundreds of bioactive secondary metabolites have been accomplished, and most importantly, these studies have tended to support the ethnomedical uses of many different species. A multidisciplinary approach for investigating these plants has led to an increased emphasis on areas such as phytopharmacology, phytotoxicology, quality control, regulation, and conservation issues for these valuable resources. The medicinal plants analyzed so far have shown a very broad chemical diversity of their constituents, which have a high potential for exhibiting novel mechanistic effects biologically. The chapter shows also that there is need to conduct additional clinical studies on herbal drugs, in particular because the longstanding traditional evidence for their safety is not always sufficient to assure their rational use. There is also need to move to "omics" approaches for investigating the holistic effect and the influence of groups of phytochemicals on the whole organism. Mexican scientists may be expected to have bright prospects in this regard, which will imbue medicinal plant research with a new dynamism in the future.

Natural Products for the Prevention and Management of Helicobacter pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori is the main pathogen that induces chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, atrophic gastritis, and other gastric disorders, and it is classified as a group I carcinogen. To eradicate H. pylori infection, triple therapy consisting of two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor is the most widely recommended first-line therapeutic strategy. Antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics contained in triple therapy could lead to therapeutic regimen failures. Recent studies showed that many natural products, including fruits, vegetables, spices, and medicinal plants, possess inhibitory effects on H. pylori, indicating their potential to be alternatives to prevent and manage H. pylori infection. This review summarizes the effects of natural products on H. pylori infection and highlights the mechanisms of action.

Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity and inhibition of gastritis by Allium hookeri extract

Allium hookeri is widely consumed plant as a vegetable and herbal medicine in southeastern Asia. Allium hookeri has been reported antioxidant, improvement of bone health and antidiabetic effects. In the present study, we investigated the potential inhibitory effect of Allium hookeri extract (AHE) on Helicobacter pylori. The in vitro anti-bacterial activities of AHE were determined by disk agar diffusion method. Also, the inhibition effect of the AHE on H. pylori infection was investigated using a mouse model. H. pylori colonization was confirmed by rapid urease tests, as described previously. Mucosal damage was evaluated grossly and histologically according to previously described criteria. As the results of the disk agar diffusion assay, CLR, AMX and MTZ inhibited the bacterial growth with inhibition zone of 19.2, 15.2 and 7.5 mm, respectively. AHE 100 µg/mL showed an inhibition zone value of 20.6 mm. Rapid urease tests of the mice stomachs demonstrated a significant reduction in H. pylori colonization. In addition to the therapeutic effect against H. pylori infection, the AHE reduced mucosal inflammation and epithelial damages in the stomach of H. pylori-infected mice. These results demonstrate that the AHE successfully cured an H. pylori infection and treated the H. pylori infection. This AHE could be a promising treatment for patients with gastric complaints including gastritis caused by H. pylori.

Anxiolytic effect of anacardic acids from cashew (Anacardium occidentale) nut shell in mice

Antianxiety drugs currently in use are associated with a number of serious side effects. Present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of anacardic acids (AAs) isolated from cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) shell liquid (CNSL) to treat anxiety as well as its role in oxidative stress in mice model. Anxiolytic effect of AA was evaluated using rota-rod and a set of behavioral tests in male Swiss albino mice at the doses of 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg. Flumazenil was used to evaluate the possible involvement of GABAergic system in the mechanism of action of AA. The effect of AA on oxidative stress in mice was evaluated by determining the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione, and catalase (CAT) activity. The detection of DNA damage of the treated animals was performed using alkaline comet test in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of the animals. The results demonstrated that AA did not produce myorelaxant and sedative effects, nor did it cause a decrease in locomotor activity. The anxiolytic effect of AA was well-evident in all tests, especially at higher dose levels (25 and 50 mg/mg). Flumazenil reversed the anxiolytic effect of AA at all doses. In addition, AA reduced oxidative stress by decreasing the concentration of MDA and increasing the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and CAT activity. Statistical analysis by Pearson's correlation indicated a positive correlation between anxiolytic effect of AA to its antioxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity. Furthermore, increased CAT activity and GSH concentrations in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of mice was also complementary to the reduced genotoxic damage observed in the study. In comet assay, AA did not increase in DNA damage. In conclusion, the results supported that AA possesses GABA_A receptor mediated anxiolytic activity with the lack of myorelaxation and genotoxicity. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(5):420-431, 2018.

In Vitro Bioactivity of Methanolic Extracts from Amphipterygium adstringens (Schltdl.) Schiede ex Standl., Chenopodium ambrosioides L., Cirsium mexicanum DC., Eryngium carlinae F. Delaroche, and Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth. Used in Traditional Medicine in Mexico

Seven out of eight methanolic extracts from five plants native to Mexico were inactive against ten bacterial strains of clinical interest. The fruit extract of Chenopodium ambrosioides inhibited the bacteria Enterococcus faecalis (MIC = 4375 μg/ml), Escherichia coli (MIC = 1094 μg/ml), and Salmonella typhimurium (MIC = 137 μg/ml). The fruit extract of C. ambrosioides was with CC₅₀ = 45 μg/ml most cytotoxic against the cell-line Caco-2, followed by the leaf extract from Pithecellobium dulce (CC₅₀ = 126 μg/ml); interestingly, leaves of C. ambrosioides (CC₅₀ = 563 μg/ml) and bark of P. dulce (CC₅₀ = 347 μg/ml) extracts were much less cytotoxic. We describe for the first time the cytotoxic effect from extracts of the aerial parts and the flowers of Cirsium mexicanum (CC₅₀ = 323 μg/ml and CC₅₀ = 250 μg/ml, resp.). Phytochemical analysis demonstrated for both extracts high tannin and saponin and low flavonoid content, while terpenoids were found in the flowers. For the first time we report a cytotoxicological study on an extract of Eryngium carlinae (CC₅₀ = 356 μg/ml) and likewise the bark extract from Amphipterygium adstringens (CC₅₀ = 342 μg/ml). In conclusion the fruit extract of C. ambrosioides is a potential candidate for further biological studies.

Genome mining of Streptomyces scabrisporus NF3 reveals symbiotic features including genes related to plant interactions

Endophytic bacteria are wide-spread and associated with plant physiological benefits, yet their genomes and secondary metabolites remain largely unidentified. In this study, we explored the genome of the endophyte Streptomyces scabrisporus NF3 for discovery of potential novel molecules as well as genes and metabolites involved in host interactions. The complete genomes of seven Streptomyces and three other more distantly related bacteria were used to define the functional landscape of this unique microbe. The S. scabrisporus NF3 genome is larger than the average Streptomyces genome and not structured for an obligate endosymbiotic lifestyle; this and the fact that can grow in R2YE media implies that it could include a soil-living stage. The genome displays an enrichment of genes associated with amino acid production, protein secretion, secondary metabolite and antioxidants production and xenobiotic degradation, indicating that S. scabrisporus NF3 could contribute to the metabolic enrichment of soil microbial communities and of its hosts. Importantly, besides its metabolic advantages, the genome showed evidence for differential functional specificity and diversification of plant interaction molecules, including genes for the production of plant hormones, stress resistance molecules, chitinases, antibiotics and siderophores. Given the diversity of S. scabrisporus mechanisms for host upkeep, we propose that these strategies were necessary for its adaptation to plant hosts and to face changes in environmental conditions.

Can Diet Modulate Helicobacter pylori-associated Gastric Pathogenesis? An Evidence-Based Analysis

Helicobacter pylori is involved in the pathogenesis of gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. The infection is prevalent in more than half of the world's population. Although the infection may lead to detrimental consequences, still the majority of the infected individuals only develop mild gastritis. Several factors are behind this paradoxical outcome including virulence of the infecting H. pylori strains, genetic background of the host, and factors related to lifestyle such as dietary habits. Among these, lifestyle including dietary factors was not in the limelight, until recently, as one of the important factors that could modulate H. pylori-linked gastric diseases. This review is directed to gather and elucidate the role of dietary components in augmenting or attenuating pathological processes initiated by H. pylori. Available evidence strongly supports the notion that the diet may play a critical role in defining the final outcome of H. pylori infection particularly if certain dietary components are taken on a regular basis for a long time. Despite a recent surge in research related to the role of dietary ingredients, further studies involving large-scale clinical trials are required to gain a better understanding of the precise role played by the dietary ingredients in H. pylori-associated pathogenesis.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Anacardium occidentale Leaf Extract

In tropical America, principally in Northeastern Brazil, the leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale is traditionally used for treatment of different diseases. However, chemical and biological properties and activities of Anacardium occidentale are poorly investigated and known. Here, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities “in vitro” of leaf extract from Anacardium occidentale. Our results show that leaf extract exhibits antioxidant activity when used to treat RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Antioxidant effects were observed by decrease in oxidative damage in macrophage cells treated with 0.5 µg/mL and 5 µg/mL of leaf extract. Moreover, leaf extract reversed oxidative damage and inflammatory parameters induced in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Leaf extract at 0.5 µg/mL and 5 µg/mL was able to inhibit release of TNF-α and IL-1β in LPS-stimulated cells. Taken together, our results indicate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of leaf extract from Anacardium occidentale and reveal the positive effects that intake of these products can mediate in biological system.

Antibacterial activities of medicinal plants used in Mexican traditional medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

We provide an extensive summary of the in vitro antibacterial properties of medicinal plants popularly used in Mexico to treat infections, and we discuss the ethnomedical information that has been published for these species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We carried out a bibliographic investigation by analyzing local and international peer-reviewed papers selected by consulting internationally accepted scientific databases from 1995 to 2014. We provide specific information about the evaluated plant parts, the type of extracts, the tested bacterial strains, and the inhibitory concentrations for each one of the species. We recorded the ethnomedical information for the active species, as well as their popular names and local distribution. Information about the plant compounds that has been identified is included in the manuscript. This review also incorporates an extensive summary of the available toxicological reports on the recorded species, as well as the worldwide registries of plant patents used for treating bacterial infections. In addition, we provide a list with the top plant species with antibacterial activities in this review RESULTS: We documented the in vitro antibacterial activities of 343 plant species pertaining to 92 botanical families against 72 bacterial species, focusing particularly on Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The plant families Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae and Euphorbiaceae included the largest number of active species. Information related to popular uses reveals that the majority of the plants, in addition to treating infections, are used to treat other conditions. The distribution of Mexican plants extended from those that were reported to grow in just one state to those that grow in all 32 Mexican states. From 75 plant species, 225 compounds were identified. Out of the total plant species, only 140 (40.57%) had at least one report about their toxic effects. From 1994 to July 2014 a total of 11,836 worldwide antibacterial patents prepared from different sources were recorded; only 36 antibacterial patents from plants were registered over the same time period. We offered some insights on the most important findings regarding the antibacterial effects, current state of the art, and research perspectives of top plant species with antibacterial activities in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies of the antibacterial in vitro activity of medicinal plants popularly used in Mexico to treat infections indicate that both the selection of plant material and the investigation methodologies vary. Standardized experimental procedures as well as in vivo pharmacokinetic studies to document the effectiveness of plant extracts and compounds are necessary. This review presents extensive information about the medicinal plants possessing antibacterial activity that has been scientifically studied and are popularly used in Mexico. We anticipate that this review will be of use for future studies because it constitutes a valuable information tool for selecting the most significant plants and their potential antibacterial properties.

Isolation of a new resorcinolic lipid from Mangifera zeylanica Hook.f. bark and its cytotoxic and apoptotic potential

Mangifera zeylanica is a plant endemic to Sri Lanka and its bark has been used in traditional medicine to treat some cancers. This study was aimed to isolate potentially cytotoxic compound/s from the hexane extract of the bark of M. zeylanica by bio-activity guided fractionation. The structure of the isolated compound (1) was elucidated using ¹H, ¹³C NMR and mass spectrometric techniques. Compound 1 was identified as a new resorcinolic lipid (5-((8Z, 11Z, 14Z)-hexatriaconta-8, 11, 14-trienyl) benzene-1,3-diol). Apoptotic potential of the isolated compound was determined only in MCF-7 (estrogen receptor positive) breast cancer cells to which it was more cytotoxic than to normal mammary epithelial cells. Oxidative stress markers [reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione levels (GSH) and glutathione-S-transferase (GSH)] were also determined in MCF-7 cells treated with compound 1. Treatment with compound 1 led to an increase in caspase 7 activity, morphological features of apoptosis and DNA fragmentation in MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, it also led to an increase in ROS and GST levels while depleting GSH levels. Results of this study suggest that isolated new resorcinolic lipid can induce apoptosis in MCF-7 cells, possibly via oxidative stress mechanism.

INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF MANGIFERIN ON HELICOBACTER PYLORI-INDUCED INFLAMMATION IN HUMAN GASTRIC CARCINOMA AGS CELLS

Background:

Gastric cancer is a serious health issue caused by H. pylori and claims more lives in developing and undeveloped countries. Hence, the need for a natural drug with several pharmacological activities with no adverse effect are highly recommended. The target of this study was to verify the anti-H. pyloric efficacy of mangiferin (MF) on H. pylori-infected AGS cells.

Materials and methods:

AGS cells were co-cultured with H. pylori and incubated with increased concentration of MF (10, 20, 50 and 100 μg/mL) or amoxicillin (AMX) and DMSO (control) group to assess its anti-H. pyloric effect by checking inhibitory zone, bacterial drug sensitivity test (MIC and MBC), adhesion and invasive property and various inflammatory markers.

Results:

Co-culturing of H. pylori-infected AGS cells with MF (100 μg) considerably increased (p<0.05) the inhibitory zone as well as substantially lowered (p<0.05) in the levels of MBC and MIC with decreased adhesion and invasive property in a dose-dependent manner and thus endorsing its anti H. pyloric activity and are almost equivalent to antibiotic AMX. Meanwhile, inflammatory markers such as NF-κΒ subunit p65, interleukins-1β, IL-8, and TNF-α were also markedly suppressed (p<0.01) on treatment with MF. In addition, the protein expression of inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and iNOS were notably downregulated (p<0.05) in AGS cells incubated with MF.

Conclusion:

We, concluded that MF treatment with H. pylori-infected AGS cells significantly suppressed the adhesion and invasion process as well as deactivated NF-p65 thereby blocking inflammatory response and thus lower the incidence of gastric carcinoma.

Identification of Phenolic Compounds in Red and Green Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) Hulls (Exo- and Mesocarp) by HPLC-DAD-ESI-(HR)-MS(n)

Phenolic constituents of the nonlignified red and green pistachio hulls (exo- and mesocarp) were assessed by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS(n) as well as by HR-MS. A total of 66 compounds was identified in the respective aqueous methanolic extracts. Among them, gallic acid, monogalloyl glucoside, monogalloyl quinic acid, penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose, hexagalloyl hexose, quercetin 3-O-galactoside, quercetin 3-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-glucuronide, and (17:1)-, (13:0)-, and (13:1)-anacardic acids were detected at highest signal intensity. The main difference between red and green hulls was the presence of anthocyanins in the former ones. Differently galloylated hydrolyzable tannins, anthocyanins, and minor anacardic acids were identified for the first time. Pistachio hulls were thus shown to be a source of structurally diverse and potentially bioactive phenolic compounds. They therefore represent a valuable byproduct of pistachio processing having potential for further utilization as raw material for the recovery of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and chemical products.

Evidence of the gastroprotective and anti- Helicobacter pylori activities of β-mangostin isolated from Cratoxylum arborescens (vahl) blume

Purpose

β-Mangostin (BM) from Cratoxylum arborescens demonstrated various pharmacological activities such as anticancer and anti-inflammatory. In this study, we aimed to investigate its antiulcer activity against ethanol ulcer model in rats.

Materials and methods

BM was isolated from C. arborescens. Gastric acid output, ulcer index, gross evaluation, mucus production, histological evaluation using hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid–Schiff staining and immunohistochemical localization for heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and Bax proteins were investigated. Possible involvement of reduced glutathione, lipid peroxidation, prostaglandin E2, antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes, radical scavenging, nonprotein sulfhydryl compounds, and anti-Helicobacter pylori were investigated.

Results

BM showed antisecretory activity against the pylorus ligature model. The pretreatment with BM protect gastric mucosa from ethanol damaging effect as seen by the improved gross and histological appearance. BM significantly reduced the ulcer area formation, the submucosal edema, and the leukocytes infiltration compared to the ulcer control. The compound showed intense periodic acid–Schiff staining to the gastric mucus layer and marked amount of alcian blue binding to free gastric mucus. BM significantly increased the gastric homogenate content of prostaglandin E2 glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and nonprotein sulfhydryl compounds. The compound inhibited the lipid peroxidation revealed by the reduced gastric content of malondialdehyde. Moreover, BM upregulate HSP70 expression and downregulate Bax expression. Furthermore, the compound showed interesting anti-H. pylori activity.

Conclusion

Thus, it could be concluded that BM possesses gastroprotective activity, which could be attributed to the antisecretory, mucus production, antioxidant, HSP70, antiapoptotic, and anti-H. pylori mechanisms.

The anacardic 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid induces macrophage activation via the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK, P38 kinases and NF-κB

Amphipterygium adstringens is a plant traditionally used to treat gingivitis, gastric ulcer and even gastric cancer but the mechanism involved in the regulation of the immune response is not elucidated yet. The 6-pentadecylsalicylic acid (6SA) is the main anacardic acid found in A. adstringens. In order to evaluate the immune-modulatory abilities of 6SA, we used mouse splenocytes and determined the phosphorylation of the transcription factor NF-κB and MAP kinases ERK1/2, JNK and p38 in helper and cytotoxic T cells, natural killer (NK) cells and F4/80(+) macrophages. Treatment with 6SA was not cytotoxic as measured by both trypan blue exclusion and tetrazolium salts (MTT) tests. Additionally, 6SA did not alter the proportion of helper and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, NK cells or macrophages. Moreover, 6SA treatment significantly increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK, P38 and NF-κB mainly in macrophages. In this cells (peritoneal macrophages), treatment with 6SA increased the secretion of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and decreased the secretion of IL-4 and IL-10 depending on MAPK and NF-κB phosphorylation. In addition, 6SA increased the migration and phagocytic activity of macrophages also depending on the phosphorylation of different kinases. These data suggest that 6SA induces the classical activation pathway in macrophages via the phosphorylation of MAP kinases and NF-κB thus activating the adaptive immune system.

Genotoxic and cytostatic effects of 6-pentadecyl salicylic anacardic acid in transformed cell lines and peripheral blood mononuclear cells

In Mexico, as in many other countries, traditional medicine is used for the treatment of several diseases. In particular, Amphipterygium adstringens infusion is used for gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastric cancer. Extracts from this tree have microbicidal effects against Helicobacter pylori, an important risk factor for gastric cancer development. Anacardic acids are constituents of A. adstringens, and 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid (6-PSA) is the most abundant. However, there is a lack of information regarding the effects of 6-PSA on cancer cells. Therefore, we investigated whether 6-PSA has differential effects on the induction of genotoxicity, cytostaticity, and apoptosis in normal human peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMCs), bone marrow polychromatic erythrocytes of Balb/c mice, and human transformed cell lines derived from both gastric cancer (AGS cells) and leukaemia (K562 cells). Treatment with 6-PSA (30-150 μM) reduced the viability of AGS and K562 cells together with a moderate, but significant, increase in the frequency of micronucleated cells and the induction of DNA breakage (Comet Assay). Moreover, 6-PSA increased the apoptosis rate in both the AGS and K562 cell lines in a caspase 8-dependent manner. In contrast, neither cytotoxicity nor genotoxicity were observed in PBMCs or bone marrow polychromatic erythrocytes of Balb/c mice after treatment with low doses of 6-PSA (0.2-2.0 mg/Kg). Instead, 6-PSA treatment resulted in the inhibition of PBMC proliferation, which was reversible after the compound was removed. Additionally, 6-PSA treatments (2-20 mg/Kg) increased the frequency of mature polychromatic erythrocytes in the bone marrow, suggesting a possible effect on the differentiation process of immune cells. The present results indicate that 6-PSA induces cytotoxicity and moderate genotoxicity, together with an increase in the apoptosis rate, in a caspase 8-dependent manner in gastric cancer cells. In contrast, a low toxicity was observed when PBMCs were exposed to 6-PSA.

Medicinal plant activity on Helicobacter pylori related diseases

More than 50% of the world population is infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The bacterium highly links to peptic ulcer diseases and duodenal ulcer, which was classified as a group I carcinogen in 1994 by the WHO. The pathogenesis of H. pylori is contributed by its virulence factors including urease, flagella, vacuolating cytotoxin A (VacA), cytotoxin-associated gene antigen (Cag A), and others. Of those virulence factors, VacA and CagA play the key roles. Infection with H. pylori vacA-positive strains can lead to vacuolation and apoptosis, whereas infection with cagA-positive strains might result in severe gastric inflammation and gastric cancer. Numerous medicinal plants have been reported for their anti-H. pylori activity, and the relevant active compounds including polyphenols, flavonoids, quinones, coumarins, terpenoids, and alkaloids have been studied. The anti-H. pylori action mechanisms, including inhibition of enzymatic (urease, DNA gyrase, dihydrofolate reductase, N-acetyltransferase, and myeloperoxidase) and adhesive activities, high redox potential, and hydrophilic/hydrophobic natures of compounds, have also been discussed in detail. H. pylori-induced gastric inflammation may progress to superficial gastritis, atrophic gastritis, and finally gastric cancer. Many natural products have anti-H. pylori-induced inflammation activity and the relevant mechanisms include suppression of nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activation and inhibition of oxidative stress. Anti-H. pylori induced gastric inflammatory effects of plant products, including quercetin, apigenin, carotenoids-rich algae, tea product, garlic extract, apple peel polyphenol, and finger-root extract, have been documented. In conclusion, many medicinal plant products possess anti-H. pylori activity as well as an anti-H. pylori-induced gastric inflammatory effect. Those plant products have showed great potential as pharmaceutical candidates for H. pylori eradication and H. pylori induced related gastric disease prevention.

Overview of the phytomedicine approaches against Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) successfully colonizes the human stomach of the majority of the human population. This infection always causes chronic gastritis, but may evolve to serious outcomes, such as peptic ulcer, gastric carcinoma or mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. H. pylori first line therapy recommended by the Maastricht-4 Consensus Report comprises the use of two antibiotics and a proton-pomp inhibitor, but in some regions failure associated with this treatment is already undesirable high. Indeed, treatment failure is one of the major problems associated with H. pylori infection and is mainly associated with bacterial antibiotic resistance. In order to counteract this situation, some effort has been allocated during the last years in the investigation of therapeutic alternatives beyond antibiotics. These include vaccines, probiotics, photodynamic inactivation and phage therapy, which are briefly revisited in this review. A particular focus on phytomedicine, also described as herbal therapy and botanical therapy, which consists in the use of plant extracts for medicinal purposes, is specifically addressed, namely considering its history, category of performed studies, tested compounds, active principle and mode of action. The herbs already experienced are highly diverse and usually selected from products with a long history of employment against diseases associated with H. pylori infection from each country own folk medicine. The studies demonstrated that many phytomedicine products have an anti-H. pylori activity and gastroprotective action. Although the mechanism of action is far from being completely understood, current knowledge correlates the beneficial action of herbs with inhibition of essential H. pylori enzymes, modulation of the host immune system and with attenuation of inflammation.

Amphypterygium adstringens anacardic acid mixture inhibits quorum sensing-controlled virulence factors of Chromobacterium violaceum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Quorum sensing (QS) is a process of bacterial cell-cell communication that controls a large number of systems affecting pathogenicity. Interrupting this communication system can provide nonvirulent pathogenic bacteria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) potential of an anacardic acids mixture isolated from Amphipterygium adstringens, a medicinal plant known as "cuachalalate", to prevent the onset of bacterial infections as an alternate to antibiotics.

METHODS

Initially we investigated the anti-QS activity of A. adstringens hexane extract (HE) by the inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum. From the active HE, an anacardic acid mixture (AAM) was obtained. The anti-quorum sensing activity of AAM was investigated by the rhamnolipid and pyocyanin production constraint as well as decrease of elastase activity, all being quorum sensing-controlled virulence factors expressed in the pathogenic bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

RESULTS

HE induced a 91.6% of inhibition of the violecin production at 55 μg/mL concentration, whereas AAM showed 94% of inhibition at 166 μg/mL. In both cases, inhibition of violacein production did not affect the viability of the bacterium. AAM inhibited pyocyanin (86% at 200 μg/mL) and rhamnolipid (91% at 500 μg/mL) production in a dose/response form and decrease the elastase (75% at 500 μg/mL) activity in P. aeruginosa without affecting its development.

CONCLUSIONS

Because an anacardic acids mixture isolated from A. adstringens demonstrated anti-QS, it could be further exploited for novel molecules to treat the emerging infections of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens.

EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitory peptide attenuates Helicobacter pylori-mediated hyper-proliferation in AGS enteric epithelial cells

Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the most critical causes of stomach cancer. The current study was conducted to explore the protective effects of an isolated active peptide H-P-6 (Pro-Gln-Pro-Lys-Val-Leu-Asp-Ser) from microbial hydrolysates of Chlamydomonas sp. against H. pylori-induced carcinogenesis. The peptide H-P-6 has effectively suppressed H. pylori-induced hyper-proliferation and migration of gastric epithelial cells (AGS). However, the peptide did not inhibit the viability of the bacteria or invasion into AGS cells. Therefore, the effect of the peptide on regulating H. pylori-induced molecular signaling was investigated. The results indicated that H. pylori activates the EGFR tyrosine kinase signaling and nuclear translocation of the β-catenin. The EGFR activation has led to the up-regulation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Moreover, the nuclear translocation levels of β-catenin were significantly increased as a result of Akt mediated down-regulation of GSK3/β protein levels in the cytoplasm. Both of these consequences have resulted in increased expression of cell survival and migration related genes such as c-Myc, cyclin-D, MMP-2 and matrilysin. Interestingly, the isolated peptide potently inhibited H. pylori-mediated EGFR activation and thereby down-regulated the subsequent P13K/Akt signaling leading to β-catenin nuclear translocation. The effect of the peptide was confirmed with the use of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1487 and molecular docking studies. Collectively this study identifies a potent peptide which regulates the H. pylori-induced hyper-proliferation and migration of AGS cells at molecular level.

The guggulsterone derivative GG-52 inhibits NF-κB signaling in gastric epithelial cells and ameliorates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions in mice

Gastric mucosal inflammation can develop after challenge with noxious stimuli such as alcohol. Specially, alcohol stimulates the release of inflammatory cytokines but does not increase gastric acid secretion, leading to gastric mucosal damage. The plant sterol guggulsterone and its novel derivative GG-52 have been reported to inhibit nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling in intestinal epithelial cells and experimental colitis. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of GG-52 on gastric epithelial cells and on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal inflammation in mice. GG-52 inhibited the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in gastric epithelial AGS and MKN-45 cell lines stimulated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment with GG-52 suppressed TNF-α-induced activation of IκB kinase (IKK) and NF-κB signaling in MKN-45 cells. In contrast, the inactive analog GG-46 did not produce significant changes in IL-8 expression or NF-κB activation. In a model of ethanol-induced murine gastritis, administration of GG-52 significantly reduced the severity of gastritis, as assessed by macroscopic and histological evaluation of gastric mucosal damage. In addition, the ethanol-induced upregulation of chemokine KC, a mouse homolog of IL-8, and phosphorylated p65 NF-κB signals were significantly inhibited in murine gastric mucosa pretreated with GG-52. These results indicate that GG-52 suppresses NF-κB activation in gastric epithelial cells and ameliorates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions in mice, suggesting that GG-52 may be a potential gastroprotective agent.

Alternative therapies for Helicobacter pylori: probiotics and phytomedicine

Helicobacter pylori is a common human pathogen infecting about 30% of children and 60% of adults worldwide and is responsible for diseases such as gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer. Treatment against H. pylori is based on the use of antibiotics, but therapy failure can be higher than 20% and is essentially due to an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which has led to the search for alternative therapies. In this review, we discuss alternative therapies for H. pylori, mainly phytotherapy and probiotics. Probiotics are live organisms or produced substances that are orally administrated, usually in addition to conventional antibiotic therapy. They may modulate the human microbiota and promote health, prevent antibiotic side effects, stimulate the immune response and directly compete with pathogenic bacteria. Phytomedicine consists of the use of plant extracts as medicines or health-promoting agents, but in most cases the molecular mode of action of the active ingredients of these herbal extracts is unknown. Possible mechanisms include inhibition of H. pylori urease enzyme, disruption of bacterial cell membrane, and modulation of the host immune system. Other alternative therapies are also reviewed.

Isolation of the new anacardic acid 6-[16'Z-nonadecenyl]-salicylic acid and evaluation of its antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis

A new anacardic acid, 6-[16'Z-nonadecenyl]-salicylic acid (1), along with seven known compounds, 6-[8'Z-pentadecenyl] salicylic acid (15:1 anacardic acid) (2), 6-nonadecenyl salicylic acid (anacardic acid 19:0) (3), 6-pentadecyl salicylic acid (anacardic acid 15:0) (4), masticadienonic acid (5), 3α-hydroxymasticadienonic acid (6), 3-epi-oleanolic acid (7) and β-sitosterol, were isolated from the bark of Amphipterygium adstringens using a bioassay-guided fractionation method. The structure of the new compound (1) was elucidated by spectroscopic data interpretation. The known compounds (2-7) were identified by comparison of their spectroscopic data with reported values in the literature. Compounds 1-4 exhibited antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 7 to 104 µg mL and from 12 to 126 µg mL, respectively.

Antimicrobial activity of Northwestern Mexican plants against Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori is the major etiologic agent of such gastric disorders as chronic active gastritis and gastric carcinoma. Over the past few years, the appearance of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has led to the development of better treatments, such as the use of natural products. This study evaluated the anti-H. pylori activity of 17 Mexican plants used mainly in the northwestern part of Mexico (Sonora) for the empirical treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. The anti-H. pylori activity of methanolic extracts of the plants was determined by using the broth microdilution method. The 50% minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from less than 200 to 400 μg/mL for Castella tortuosa, Amphipterygium adstringens, Ibervillea sonorae, Pscalium decompositum, Krameria erecta, Selaginella lepidophylla, Pimpinella anisum, Marrubium vulgare, Ambrosia confertiflora, and Couterea latiflora and were greater than 800 μg/mL for Byophyllum pinnatum, Tecoma stans linnaeus, Kohleria deppena, Jatropha cuneata, Chenopodium ambrosoides, and Taxodium macronatum. Only Equisetum gigantum showed no activity against H. pylori. This study suggests the important role that these plants may have in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders caused by H. pylori. The findings set the groundwork for further characterization and elucidation of the active compounds responsible for such activity.

Anti-ulcer activity of Cyrtocarpa procera analogous to that of Amphipterygium adstringens, both assayed on the experimental gastric injury in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The bark of Amphipterygium adstringens (Aa) is commonly mixed or adulterated with the bark of Cyrtocarpa procera (Cp) and sold in Mexican markets. Aa is a well known species in Mexico used as decoction to relieve ulcers. Scientific reports reinforcing the anti-ulcer activity of Aa have been previously described, but those describing the anti-ulcer properties of Cp as a substitute for Aa in folk medicine are scarce.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate anatomical and phytochemical differences between these species, as well as to assess the anti-ulcer effect of Cp extracts in comparison to the Aa extracts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Anatomical micro-technique and physical and spectroscopic data were used to analyze differences between Cp and Aa. Regard to the pharmacological activity, it was assessed by using the ethanol-induced gastric damage model in rats.

RESULTS

Whereas the bark anatomy of Aa was characterized by vertical canals in the periderm and the rare occurrence of fibers in its phloem, a periderm without vertical canals and abundant fibers in the phloem were distinctive features of Cp. Phytochemical analysis allowed the identification of tirucallane, masticadienonic and 3α-hydroxymasticadienonic acids as major components in Aa, while β-amyrin and β-sitosterol were obtained from Cp. Gastric lesions observed in the control group decreased in the presence of 100mg/kg of hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts from the normal or regenerated bark of Cp, thus resembling the anti-ulcer effect of Aa. Nevertheless, major anti-ulcer potency was observed with the most active methanol extract from Cp obtained from normal [the effective dose fifty ED(50)=45.54 mg/kg] or regenerated (ED(50)=36.68 mg/kg) bark in comparison to Aa (ED(50)=115.64 mg/kg).

CONCLUSION

Chemical and anatomical differences were found between these species, but since the anti-ulcer activity of Cp is similar to that shown by Aa our results reinforce the use of both species for the relief of gastric ulcer in folk medicine.

Monocyclic phenolic acids; hydroxy- and polyhydroxybenzoic acids: occurrence and recent bioactivity studies

Among the wide diversity of naturally occurring phenolic acids, at least 30 hydroxy- and polyhydroxybenzoic acids have been reported in the last 10 years to have biological activities. The chemical structures, natural occurrence throughout the plant, algal, bacterial, fungal and animal kingdoms, and recently described bioactivities of these phenolic and polyphenolic acids are reviewed to illustrate their wide distribution, biological and ecological importance, and potential as new leads for the development of pharmaceutical and agricultural products to improve human health and nutrition.

Carotenoids with anti-Helicobacter pylori activity from Golden delicious apple

Previously it was reported that hypophasic carotenoids of Golden delicious apple peel showed potent anti-H. pylori activity (MIC(50) = 36 microg/mL), comparable to metronidazole (MIC(50) = 45 microg/mL). To further investigate the involved active carotenoids of the apple peel extracts, seven carotenoids were isolated for the current study: (all-E)-luteoxanthin, (all-E)-neoxanthin, (9'Z)-neoxanthin, (all-E)-antheraxanthin, (all-E)-violaxanthin, (9Z)-violaxanthin and (all-E)-lutein. The MIC(50) values of (all-E)-luteoxanthin, (all-E)-neoxanthin and (9'Z)-neoxanthin were 7.9, 11 and 27 microg/mL, respectively. Other carotenoids and beta,beta-carotene did not exhibit potent anti-H. pylori activity (MIC(50) > 100 microg/mL). An examination of structure and function suggested that active carotenoids contained a monofuranoid ring or an allenic bond in addition to an epoxy group and an additional two or three hydroxyl substituents on the side group.