Physalis angulata extract exerts anti-inflammatory effects in rats by inhibiting different pathways

UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS-Guided Isolation of Bioactive Withanolides from the Fruits of Physalis angulata

Physalis angulata Linn. is an exotic Amazonian fruit that is commonly recognized as wild tomato, winter cherry, and gooseberry. While its fruit is known to contain many nutrients, such as minerals, fibers, and vitamins, few papers have investigated withanolide derivatives from its fruits. UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS, which produces fragmentation spectra, was applied for the first time to guide the isolation of bioactive withanolide derivatives from P. angulata fruits. As a result, twenty-six withanolide derivatives, including two novel 1,10-secowithanolides (1 and 2) and a new derivative (3), were obtained. Compounds 1 and 2 are rare rearranged 1,10-secowithanolides with a tetracyclic 7/6/6/5 ring system. All structures were assigned through various spectroscopic data and quantum chemical calculations. Nine withanolide derivatives exhibited significant inhibitory effects on three tumor cell lines with IC50 values of 0.51-13.79 μM. Moreover, three new compounds (1-3) exhibited potential nitric oxide inhibitory effects in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells (IC50: 7.51-61.8 μM). This investigation indicated that fruits of P. angulata could be applied to treat and prevent cancer and inflammatory-related diseases due to their potent active withanolide derivatives.

The Efficacy of Topical Formulation Containing Ciplukan (Physalis angulata Linn.) in Modulating Interleukin-17 and Interferon Gamma Expression in Mice (Mus musculus) Psoriasis Model

Background

Interleukin 17 (IL-17) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis vulgaris (PV). Topical corticosteroids are still utilised as first-line therapy for mild to moderate PV. However, long-term use of corticosteroid is associated with various side effects. Physalis angulata Linn. (Ciplukan) possesses anti-inflammatory properties that could serve as a potential alternative topical therapy for PV.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of topical ciplukan as an anti-inflammatory agent targeting the expression of IL-17 and IFN-γ.

Methods

Psoriasis was induced using imiquimod cream, therefore divided into five groups. Group I, the psoriasis control group, received only imiquimod cream. Groups C1 and C2 received imiquimod cream followed by a mixture of Ciplukan and vaseline in a 1:2 and 1:4 ratio, respectively. Group M, the standard therapy group, received imiquimod cream, followed by mometasone furoate cream. Lastly, group V, the vehicle group, received imiquimod cream followed by vaseline album. Expression of IL-17 and IFN-γ in mice's skin tissue was analysed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) after seven days of treatment.

Results

The mean expression of IL-17 in Group C1 (22.60) was significantly lower (p = 0.012) than in the psoriasis control group (23.60), and there was no significant difference (p = 0.613) in Group M (22.41). The mean expression of IFN-γ in Group C1 (26.97) and Group C2 (27.03) was also significantly lower (p = 0.026 and p = 0.026, respectively) than Group I (28.80), and there was no significant difference (p = 0.180 and p = 0.093, respectively) than Group M (26.03).

Conclusion

Expression of IL-17 and IFN-γ in the ciplukan group is lower than in the psoriasis control group, and there is no significant difference compared to the standard therapy group.

RNAi of Sterol Δ24-Isomerase Implicated Its Involvement in Physalin Biosynthesis in Physalis angulata L

Physalis angulata is a renowned traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various conditions. Physalin is the major type of bioactive constituents conferring medicinal properties of P. angulata. Despite the medicinal importance, the pathways leading to physalin are largely unknown. In this study, we employed a transcriptomic approach to identify a Pa24ISO gene from P. angulata. Through heterologous expression in yeast, Pa24ISO was revealed to catalyze an isomerization reaction in converting 24-methylenecholesterol to 24-methyldesmosterol. Real-time PCR analysis showed that the abundance of Pa24ISO transcripts correlated with the accumulation pattern of physalin B in different tissues of P. angulata. A direct role of Pa24ISO in channeling of 24-methylenecholesterol for physalin B biosynthesis was illustrated by suppressing the gene in P. angulata via the VIGS approach. Down-regulation of Pa24ISO led to reduced levels of 24-methyldesmosterol and physalin B, accompanied with an increase of campesterol content in P. angulata. The results supported that 24ISO is involved in physalin biosynthesis in plants.

Anti-Inflammatory Potential of the Oleoresin from the Amazonian Tree Copaifera reticulata with an Unusual Chemical Composition in Rats

Copaifera reticulata Ducke is a popularly known species known as copaíba that is widely spread throughout the Amazon region. The tree yields an oleoresin which is extensively used in local traditional medicine mainly as an anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive agent. The aim of the present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory potential of this oleoresin obtained from a national forest in the central Amazon which presented an unusual chemical composition. The chemical composition of volatile compounds of oleoresin was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The acute toxicity assay was performed with a single dose of 2000 mg/kg. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema and air pouch assays using four different C. reticulata oleoresin concentrations (10, 100, and 400 mg/kg). The exudate was evaluated for nitrite concentration through the colorimetric method and for TNF-α, IL-1β, and PGE₂ by ELISA. C. reticulata oleoresin collected in the Amazonian summer contained six major sesquiterpene compounds (β-bisabolene, cis-eudesma-6,11-diene, trans-α-bergamotene, β-selinene, α-selinene, and β-elemene) and was nontoxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg, showing low acute toxicity. Different from oleoresin obtained from other sites of the Brazilian Amazon, the major volatile compound found was β-Bisabolene with 25.15%. This β-Bisabolene-rich oleoresin reduced the formation of paw edema induced by carrageenan and reduced the global number of cells in the air pouch assay, as well as exudate volume and nitrite, TNF-α, IL-1β, and prostaglandin E₂ levels (p < 0.05). C. reticulata oleoresin with a high β-Bisabolene concentration showed anti-inflammatory activity, reducing vascular permeability and consequently edema formation, and thus reducing cell migration and the production of inflammatory cytokine, confirming its traditional use by local Amazonian communities.

Physalin pool from Physalis angulata L. leaves and physalin D inhibit P2X7 receptor function in vitro and acute lung injury in vivo

P2X7 receptor promotes inflammatory response and neuropathic pain. New drugs capable of impairing inflammation and pain-reducing adverse effects extracted from plant extracts have been studied. Physalis angulate L. possesses traditional uses and exhibits antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, antimalarial, antileishmanial, immunosuppressive, antiasthmatic. diuretic, and antitumor activities. The most representative phytochemical constituents identified with medicinal importance are the physalins and withanolides. However, the mechanism of anti-inflammatory action is scarce. Although some physalins and withanolides subtypes have anti-inflammatory activity, only four physalins subtypes (B, D, F, and G) have further studies. Therefore, we evaluated the crude ethanolic extract enriched with physalins B, D, F, and G from P. angulata leaves, a pool containing the physalins B, D, F, G, and the physalins individually, as P2X7 receptor antagonists. For this purpose, we evaluated ATP-induced dye uptake, macroscopic currents, and interleukin 1-β (IL-1β) in vitro. The crude extract and pool dose-dependently inhibited P2X7 receptor function. Thus, physalin B, D, F, and G individually evaluated for 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-induced dye uptake assay, whole-cell patch-clamp, and cytokine release showed distinct antagonist levels. Physalin D displayed higher potency and efficacy than physalin B, F, and G for all these parameters. In vivo mice model as ATP-induced paw edema was potently inhibited for physalin D, in contrast to physalin B, F, and G. ATP and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pleurisy in mice were reversed for physalin D treatment. Molecular modeling and computational simulation predicted the intermolecular interactions between the P2X7 receptor and physalin derivatives. In silico results indicated physalin D and F as a potent allosteric P2X7 receptor antagonist. These data confirm physalin D as a promisor source for developing a new P2X7 receptor antagonist with anti-inflammatory action.

Physalis angulata reduces the progression of chronic experimental periodontitis by immunomodulatory mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Physalis angulata is an herb found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world; it is widely applied in popular medicine due to the therapeutic properties of the whole plant and its parts. Extracts and infusions of this plant have been extensively applied in folk medicine worldwide to treat inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases, including oral inflammatory conditions such as sore throat and gingivitis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to investigate the protective effects of the ethanolic extract of P. angulata (EEPA) in a murine model of chronic periodontitis, aiming to corroborate its traditional use as an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agent, and to point out possible mechanisms involved in these effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

EEPA was obtained from the stems of P. angulata collected in Belém (PA, Brazil). Chronic periodontitis was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by 12 administrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 20 μg/1μL) into the gingival papilla in the course of 28 days. Starting from the 15^th day after the first LPS injection, mice were daily treated with EEPA (50 or 100 mg/kg), nimesulide (25 mg/kg, reference drug), or vehicle by oral route for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, alveolar bone loss was evaluated along with the gingival expression of biomarkers of periodontitis and cytokines by RT-q-PCR and ELISA. Hematological and biochemical parameters suggestive of systemic toxicity were also evaluated. The transcriptional activity of NF-κB was investigated using the luciferase assay in macrophages.

RESULTS

Mice with chronic experimental periodontitis suffered alveolar bone loss that was prevented by the treatment with EEPA (50 or 100 mg/kg) or nimesulide (25 mg/kg). EEPA (50 and 100 mg/kg) and nimesulide (25 mg/kg) reduced mRNA levels of MMP-9 mRNA, but not of TIMP-1 in gingival tissue of periodontitis-induced mice. Both treatments also reduced the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. The treatment with EEPA (100 mg/kg) increased the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-β. No hematological or biochemical alterations were caused by the daily treatment with EEPA. In vitro luciferase assay suggested that a putative mechanism of EEPA is reducing the transcriptional activity of NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

EEPA exhibited a disease-modifying effect in the chronic experimental periodontitis, along with unidentifiable systemic toxicity. This work corroborates the traditional use of P. angulata in oral inflammatory conditions and provides mechanistic hypotheses to explain its therapeutic effects.

Macrophage polarization: an effective approach to targeted therapy of inflammatory bowel disease

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a systemic disease with immune abnormalities that can affect the entire digestive tract. A high percentage of patients with IBD are unresponsive to current pharmacological agents, hence the need exists for novel therapeutic approaches. There is compelling evidence that macrophage polarization plays a key role in the remission of IBD patients and that it could open up future treatment options for patients.Areas covered: This paper highlights the crucial role of macrophage polarization in IBD. The authors shed light on the phenotype and function of macrophages and potential drug targets for polarization regulation. Existing approaches for regulating macrophage polarization are discussed and potential solutions for safety concerns are considered. We performed a literature search on the IBD and macrophage polarization mainly published in PubMed January 2010-July 2020.Expert opinion: Evidence indicates that there are fewer M2 macrophages and a high proportion of M1 macrophages in the intestinal tissues of individuals who are non- responsive to treatment. Regulating macrophage polarization is a potential novel targeted option for IBD treatment. Improved mechanistic insights are required to uncover more precise and effective targets for skewing macrophages into a proper phenotype.

In vitro and In Vivo Immunomodulatory Activity of Physalis angulata Concentrated Ethanolic Extract

The need for new immunomodulatory drugs is due to the side effects associated with the prolonged use of the currently used immunomodulatory drugs. In this context, the present work aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of an ethanolic concentrated extract from Physalis angulata. The cytotoxicity of samples was determined using peritoneal macrophages though the Alamar Blue assay. The immunomodulatory activity of the ethanolic extract from P. angulata on activated macrophages was determined by measurement of nitrite and cytokine production. The immunosuppressive effects of the ethanolic extract from P. angulata was evaluated on lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production. The effects of the extract on cell cycle progression and cell death on lymphocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry. Lastly, the ethanolic extract from P. angulata was tested in vivo in toxicological tests and in models of peritonitis and delayed-type hypersensitivity response. The ethanolic extract from P. angulata decreased nitrite, interleukin-6, interleukin-12, and TNF-α production by activated macrophages without affecting the cell viability. In addition, the ethanolic extract from P. angulata inhibited lymphoproliferation and the secretion of interleukin-2, interleukin-6, and IFN-γ, and increased interleukin-4 secretion by activated splenocytes. Flow cytometry analysis in lymphocyte cultures showed that treatment with the ethanolic extract from P. angulata induces cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase followed by cell death by apoptosis. Moreover, mice treated with the extract from P. angulata at 100 or 200 mg/kg did not show signs of toxicity or alterations in serum components. Finally, the ethanolic extract from P. angulata significantly reduced neutrophil migration and reduced paw edema in bovine serum albumin-induced the delayed-type hypersensitivity response model. Our results demonstrate the potential of the ethanolic extract of P. angulata as an alternative for the treatment of immune-inflammatory diseases.

Physalin D inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone loss via regulating calcium signaling

We investigated the effects of physalin A, B, D, and F on osteoclastogenesis induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor kB ligand (RANKL). The biological functions of different physalins were first predicted using an in silico bioinformatic tool (BATMAN-TCM). Afterwards, we tested cell viability and cell apoptosis rate to analyze the cytotoxicity of different physalins. We analyzed the inhibitory effects of physalins on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis from mouse bone-marrow macrophages (BMMs) using a tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) stain. We found that physalin D has the best selectivity index (SI) among all analyzed physalins. We then confirmed the inhibitory effects of physalin D on osteoclast maturation and function by immunostaining of F-actin and a pit-formation assay. On the molecular level, physalin D attenuated RANKL- evoked intracellular calcium ([Ca(2＋)](i)) oscillation by inhibiting phosphorylation of phospholipase Cγ2 (PLCγ2) and thus blocked the downstream activation of Ca2＋/calmodulin- dependent protein kinases (CaMK)IV and cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB). An animal study showed that physalin D treatment rescues bone microarchitecture, prevents bone loss, and restores bone strength in a model of rapid bone loss induced by soluble RANKL. Taken together, these results suggest that physalin D inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone loss via suppressing the PLCγ2-CaMK-CREB pathway.

The Role of Ca2+-NFATc1 Signaling and Its Modulation on Osteoclastogenesis

The increasing of intracellular calcium concentration is a fundamental process for mediating osteoclastogenesis, which is involved in osteoclastic bone resorption. Cytosolic calcium binds to calmodulin and subsequently activates calcineurin, leading to NFATc1 activation, a master transcription factor required for osteoclast differentiation. Targeting the various activation processes in osteoclastogenesis provides various therapeutic strategies for bone loss. Diverse compounds that modulate calcium signaling have been applied to regulate osteoclast differentiation and, subsequently, attenuate bone loss. Thus, in this review, we summarized the modulation of the NFATc1 pathway through various compounds that regulate calcium signaling and the calcium influx machinery. Furthermore, we addressed the involvement of transient receptor potential channels in osteoclastogenesis.

A screening of plants used in Colombian traditional medicine revealed the anti-inflammatory potential of Physalis angulata calyces

The use of natural products by communities from the Colombian Caribbean region to treat health issues, together with biodiversity and geographical features, constitute a great scenery to develop new therapies based on ethnopharmacological heritage. Here, we investigated the anti-inflammatory potential of 10 commonly used plants in Colombian folk medicine, evaluating their effect on nitric oxide (NO) production by LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The most active plant was evaluated in vivo using 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mouse ear edema, along with its effect on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in vitro. The extract of Physalis angulata L. calyces showed the highest activity. This extract was fractionated and its dichloromethane fraction (DF) was the most active in vitro, inhibiting the production of NO, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 (CCL2). In vivo, DF showed a significant inhibition of ear edema and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, with evident reduction of the leukocyte infiltration into tissue. Our results support the ethnopharmacological use of the selected plants in folk medicine. P. angulata dichloromethane fraction represents a promising source of pharmacological compounds with great potential therapeutic use to treat inflammatory illness.

Transcriptome-wide identification of microRNAs and functional insights inferred from microRNA-target pairs in Physalis angulata L

Physalis angulata L., a member of the family Solanaceae, is widely used as the folk medicine in various countries. Continuous research efforts are devoted to the discovery of the effective medicinal ingredients from Physalis angulata. However, due to the limited resources of genome and transcriptome sequencing data, only a few studies have been performed at the gene regulatory level. In this study, the transcriptomes of five organs (roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits) of Physalis angulata were reported. Based on the transcriptome assembly containing 196,117 unique transcripts, a total of 17,556 SSRs (simple sequence repeats) were identified, which could be useful RNA-based barcoding for discrimination of the plants closely relative to Physalis angulata. Additionally, 24 transcripts were discovered to be the potential microRNA (miRNA) precursors which encode a total of 31 distinct mature miRNAs. Some of these precursors showed organ-specific expression patterns. Target prediction revealed 116 miRNA-target pairs, involving 31 miRNAs and 83 target transcripts in Physalis angulata. Taken together, our results could serve as the data resource for in-depth studies on the molecular regulatory mechanisms related to the production of medicinal ingredients in Physalis angulata.

Antidiabetic potential of the ethyl acetate extract of Physalis alkekengi and chemical constituents identified by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The edible plant Physalis alkekengi (PA) is used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes. However, the anti-diabetic effects and constituents of the fruit and aerial parts of this plant have not been studied extensively.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic potential of Physalis alkekengi and identify its chemical constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present study, the in vitro glucose uptake capacity was tested using the 2-[N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino]-2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-NBDG) assay in HepG2 cells. Secondly, the anti-diabetes effects of the ethyl acetate extracts of the aerial parts/fruit (EAP/EAF) of P. alkekengi were evaluated in high-fat diet-fed and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (seven groups, n = 7) daily at doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg for 28 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was measured with a glucometer and the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), glycated serum protein (GSP), and fasting insulin (FINS) were measured by ELISA. Furthermore, insulin sensitivity index (ISI) and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) were calculated based on FBG and FINS. Changes in blood glucose concentration were assessed after an oral glucose challenge in diabetic rats treated with EAF and EAP extracts. In all assays, rosiglitazone, a current antidiabetic drug and insulin sensitizer, was also tested. Finally, the compounds in EAP were identified by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS analysis.

RESULTS

EAP increased the uptake of 2-NBDG, a measure of direct glucose uptake, in HepG2 cells. Next, in diabetic rats treated with P. alkegenki extracts for 28 days, the levels of FBG, TC, TG and GSP and were lowered effectively, while FINS was increased significantly. EAP/EAF enhanced insulin sensitivity significantly as measured by ISI and HOMA-IR along with oral glucose tolerance test analysis. The EAP generally exerted the greatest effects. Lastly, a HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS analysis identified 50 compounds, including 26 physalins, 10 flavonoids, and 9 phenolic acids, with 21 compounds found for the first time in P. alkekengi.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the merit of P. alkekengi as an antidiabetic herbal medicine or dietary supplement.

Physalin D regulates macrophage M1/M2 polarization via the STAT1/6 pathway

The in vitro and in vivo effects of physalin D on macrophage M1/M2 polarization were investigated. In silico analysis was first performed for biological function prediction of different physalins. The results suggest physalins have similar predicted biological functions due to their similarities in chemical structures. The cytotoxicity of physalins was then analyzed based on cell apoptosis rate and cell viability evaluation. Physalin D was chosen for further study due to its minimal cytotoxicity. Bone marrow macrophages were isolated and induced with lipopolysaccharide/interferon (IFN)-γ for M1 polarization and interleukin (IL)-4/IL-13 for M2 polarization. The results showed that physalin D can repolarize M1 phenotype cells toward M2 phenotype. In addition, physalin D is protective in M2 macrophages to maintain the M2 phenotype in the presence of IFN-γ. On the molecular level, we found that physalin D suppressed the signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT)1 activation and blocked STAT1 nuclear translocation. Conversely, physalin D can also activate STAT6 and enhance STAT6 nuclear translocation for M2 polarization. Taken together, these results suggested that physalin D regulates macrophage M1/M2 polarization via the STAT1/6 pathway.

In vitro antileishmanial effects of Physalis angulata root extract on Leishmania infantum

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, we evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of Physalis angulata root (AEPa) on Leishmania infantum proliferation, morphology, and the driving mechanism in leishmanicidal activity and modulatory action on macrophages.

METHODS

L. infantum promastigotes were treated with 50 and 100 µg/mL AEPa for 72 h and then antipromastigote assay was performed by counts in a Newbauer chamber, morphological changes were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and the mechanism of the leishmanicidal activity was detected. In addition, macrophages were infected with L. infantum and were used to evaluate anti-amastigote activity of AEPa and effects of AEPa on cytokine secretion after 72-hour treatment.

RESULTS

Treatment with AEPa reduced the numbers of L. infantum promastigotes (50% inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) = 65.9 μg/mL; selectivity index (SI) = 22.1) and amastigotes (IC₅₀ = 37.9 μg/mL; SI = 38.5) compared with the untreated control. Amphotericin B reduced 100% of the promastigote numbers after 72 h of treatment (IC₅₀ = 0.2 μg/mL). AEPa induced several morphological changes and increased the production of reactive oxygen species and apoptotic death in promastigotes after treating for 72 h. AEPa (100 μg/mL) promoted tumor necrosis factor-α secretion in macrophages infected with L. infantum after 72 h of treatment, but did not induce an increase in this cytokine in noninfected macrophages. In addition, AEPa showed no cytotoxic effect on J774-A1 cells (50% cytotoxic concentration >1000 μg/mL).

CONCLUSION

AEPa presented antileishmanial activity against the promastigotes and amastigotes of L. infantum without macrophage cytotoxicity; these results show that natural products such as P. angulata have leishmanicidal potential and in the future may be an alternative treatment for leishmaniasis.

Synthesis of the 10-oxabicyclo[5.2.1]decane framework present in bioactive natural products

The present work deals with the synthesis of the 10-oxabicyclo[5.2.1]decane framework present in bioactive natural products like physalins, with potential as antitumor agents. This synthetic methodology involves several key reactions: (a) synthesis of polyfunctionalized cycloheptenones by [4 + 3] cycloaddition reactions of furan precursors with oxyallyl cations; (b) Nicholas reaction with propargyl cations stabilized as dicobalt hexacarbonyl complexes; (c) demetallation and hydration of the resulting acetylenes; (d) stereoconvergent aldol cyclization to generate a key oxatricyclic intermediate and (e) a β-fragmentation process that affords, under hypoiodite photolysis, the desired product with moderate to good yield. The final compounds are the result of a radicalary β-fragmentation at the level of C2-C6 with respect to the tertiary hydroxyl group on C6, with an unexpected contraction from a ten- to a nine-membered ring system, via a radical addition to the carbonyl group on C4. The synthetic methodology has been scaled up to multigram level with good overall yield. Further biological, biochemical and biophysical studies are being carried out in our laboratory on these 1,7-epoxycyclononane derivatives to determine the potential of this kind of oxabicyclic compound as future hits and/or leads for the development of new anticancer drugs. The preliminary evaluation of the anticancer activity of the representative synthesized compounds, against the leukaemia cancer cell lines K-562 and SR, shows a promising activity with a GI₅₀ = 0.01 μM and a LC₅₀ = 7.4 μM for a conveniently functionalized 10-oxabicyclo[5.2.1]decane.

Anti-ulcer and anti-Helicobacter pylori potentials of the ethyl acetate fraction of Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Solanaceae) in rodent

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Solanaceae) has been widely used in Chinese folk medicine due to its wide distribution throughout the country, for the treatment of a wide range of diseases including heat and cold, sore throat, fever, fungal infection, inflammation, toothache, rheumatism, burn, analgesic, ulcer and urinary diseases. However, the effect of P. alkekengi var. franchetii on ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection has not been reported to date.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-Helicobacter pylori and analgesic properties of ethyl acetate fraction of the crude aqueous methanolic extract from the aerial parts of the plant P. alkekengi L. var. franchetii in rodents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acute toxicity of the crude extract of P. alkekengi L. var. franchetii (PAF) was evaluated in rats. The petroleum ether fraction (PEF), butanol fraction (BF), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) and aqueous fraction (AF) of crude aqueous methanolic extract from PAF were screened for anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer potential at doses of 100, 250 and 500mg/kg (p.o.), using carrageenin-induced hind paw edema and ethanol-induced gastric lesions test in rats. In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of EAF was assayed subsequently. In addition, three doses of EAF were evaluated for analgesic activity using hot plate and writhing tests, respectively. Finally, we performed a phytochemical analysis of EAF.

RESULTS

Four fractions of crude extract from PAF significantly reduced the paw volume in carrageenin-induced hind paw edema model at different doses (100, 250 and 500mg/kg, p.o.). The fraction EAF at a dose of 500mg/kg exhibited the highest (75.92%) (0.150 ± 0.045***, ***p < 0.001) anti-inflammatory potential, which is similar to indomethacin (***P < 0.001)（0.120 ± 0.014***, 80.74% inhibition of inflammation） at 5mg/kg. Pretreatment with EAF (500mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced the intensity of gastric mucosal damage and showed higher gastroprotective activity (90.6%) when compared to the standard drug famotidine (84.6%). In addition, EAF fraction also showed a moderate (P < 0.05) anti-Helicobacter pylori activity with a minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of 500μg/ml. Furthermore, pain sensation was effectively inhibited at 500mg/kg, p.o. of EAF as manifested by an increase (p < 0.001) of latency time in hot plate from 30 to 90min and a decrease (p < 0.001) in count of writhing induced by acetic acid. By HPLC, we determined some steroid, terpenoid and flavonoids (four compounds): kaempferol, quercetin, Blumenol A and physalindicanols A, which were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction and identified using ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectra analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-Helicobacter pylori and analgesic properties of EAF of the crude extract from PAF thus justifying its traditional usage.

A novel withanolide with an unprecedented carbon skeleton from Physalis angulata

Aromaphysalin A (1), possessing an exceptional C(11)–C(15) bond and a rearranged 4,9-cyclized aromatic ring, is isolated from of Physalis angulata.

Unprecedented 22,26-seco physalins from Physalis angulata and their anti-inflammatory potential

Aromaphysalin B (2), as a first 11,15-cyclo-9(10),14(17),22(26)-triseco physalin with an unprecedented aromatic ring, was isolated from Physalis angulata.

New Phenolic Glycosides from Physalis angulata

Two new phenolic glycosides, physangulosides A and B (1 and 2), were isolated from the whole plant of Physalis angulata. Their chemical structures were determined by mean of HR-ESI-MS, 1D, and 2D-NMR spectra. Both of the compounds showed weak protection against hydrogen peroxide induced hepatocytes damage.

Antiproliferative and Anti-inflammatory Withanolides from Physalis angulata

Sixteen new withanolides, physangulatins A-N (1-14) and withaphysalins Y and Z (15 and 16), as well as 12 known analogues, were isolated from the stems and leaves of Physalis angulata L. Their structures were established using extensive spectroscopic data analyses. The absolute configurations of 1 and 9 were assigned via X-ray crystallography. The isolated compounds were tested for their antiproliferative effects against human prostate cancer cells (C4-2B and 22Rvl), human renal carcinoma cells (786-O, A-498, and ACHN), and human melanoma cells (A375-S2), as well as inhibitory effects on NO production induced by LPS in macrophages. Compounds 9, 17, 20, 21, 25, and 27 showed antiproliferative effects against all tested cancer cells, with IC50 values of 0.18-7.43 μM. Compounds 3-5, 9-11, 17, 20-22, 24, 25, and 27 displayed inhibitory effects against NO production, with IC50 values of 1.36-11.59 μM.

Effect of osmopriming on germination and initial growth of Physalis angulata L. under salt stress and on expression of associated genes

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of priming on seed germination under salt stress and gene expression in seeds and seedlings of P. angulata L. After priming for 10 days, seed germination was tested in plastic trays containing 15 ml of water (0 dS m-1 - control) or 15 ml of NaCl solution (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 dS m-1). Fresh and dry weight of shoots and roots of seedlings were evaluated at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 dS m-1. Total RNA was extracted from whole seeds and seedlings followed by RT-qPCR. The target genes selected for this study were: ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), thioredoxin (TXN), high affinity potassium transporter protein 1 (HAK1) and salt overly sensitive 1 (SOS1). At an electroconductivity of 14 dS m-1 the primed seeds still germinated to 72%, in contrast with the non-primed seeds which did not germinate. The relative expression of APX was higher in primed seeds and this may have contributed to the maintenance of high germination in primed seeds at high salt concentrations. GST and TXN displayed increased transcript levels in shoots and roots of seedlings from primed seeds. Priming improved seed germination as well as salt tolerance and this is correlated with increased expression of APX in seeds and SOS1, GST and TXN in seedlings.

In vitro biological action of aqueous extract from roots of Physalis angulata against Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis

BACKGROUND

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by various species of the protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus and transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. The protozoa multiply in phagocytic cells, mainly macrophages, which play an important role defending the organism from pathogens. The most effective treatment for leishmaniasis is the chemotherapy and besides the high cost, these drugs are toxic and require a long period of treatment. Currently, some herbal products are considered an important alternative source of a new leishmanicidal agent, which includes the plant Physalis angulata, . We evaluated effects of an aqueous extract from roots of Physalis angulata (AEPa) on Leishmania proliferation, morphology and also determined whether physalins were present in the extract contributing to the knowledge of its pharmacological efficacy.

METHODS

Morphological alterations were determined by light microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Host cell viability was evaluated by MTT, and propidium iodide. AEPa were submitted in full HRESITOF analysis.

RESULTS

AEPa promoted a dose-dependent reduction on promastigotes (IC50 = 39.5 μg/mL ± 5.1) and amastigotes (IC50 = 43.4 μg/mL ± 10.1) growth. This growth inhibition was associated with several morphological alterations observed in promastigote forms. No cytotoxic effect in mammalian cells was detected (IC50 > 4000 μg/mL). Furthemore, the presence of physalins A, B, D, E, F, G and H were described, for the first time, in the P. angulata root.

CONCLUSIONS

Results demonstrate that AEPa effectively promotes antileishmanial activity with several important morphological alterations and has no cytotoxic effects on host cells.

Antinociceptive properties of physalins from Physalis angulata

Pain is the most common reason a patient sees a physician. Nevertheless, the use of typical painkillers is not completely effective in controlling all pain syndromes; therefore further attempts have been made to develop improved analgesic drugs. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antinociceptive properties of physalins B (1), D (2), F (3), and G (4) isolated from Physalis angulata in inflammatory and centrally mediated pain tests in mice. Systemic pretreatment with 1-4 produced dose-related antinociceptive effects on the writhing and formalin tests, traditional screening tools for the assessment of analgesic drugs. On the other hand, only 3 inhibited inflammatory parameters such as hyperalgesia, edema, and local production of TNF-α following induction with complete Freund's adjuvant. Treatment with 1, 3, and 4 produced an antinociceptive effect on the tail flick test, suggesting a centrally mediated antinociception. Reinforcing this idea, 2-4 enhanced the mice latency reaction time during the hot plate test. Mice treated with physalins did not demonstrate motor performance alterations. These results suggest that 1-4 present antinociceptive properties associated with central, but not anti-inflammatory, events and indicate a new pharmacological property of physalins.

Physalis angulata induces in vitro differentiation of murine bone marrow cells into macrophages

Background

The bone marrow is a hematopoietic tissue that, in the presence of cytokines and growth factors, generates all of the circulating blood cells. These cells are important for protecting the organism against pathogens and for establishing an effective immune response. Previous studies have shown immunomodulatory effects of different products isolated from plant extracts. This study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory properties of aqueous Physalis angulata (AEPa) extract on the differentiation of bone marrow cells.

Results

Increased cellular area, higher spreading ability and several cytoplasmatic projections were observed in the treated cells, using optical microscopy, suggesting cell differentiation. Furthermore, AEPa did not promote the proliferation of lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocytes, however promotes increased the number of macrophages in the culture. The ultrastructural analysis by Transmission Electron Microscopy of treated cells showed spreading ability, high number of cytoplasmatic projections and increase of autophagic vacuoles. Moreover, a high level of LC3b expression by treated cells was detected by flow cytometry, suggesting an autophagic process. Cell surface expression of F4/80 and CD11b also indicated that AEPa may stimulate differentiation of bone marrow cells mainly into macrophages. In addition, AEPa did not differentiate cells into dendritic cells, as assessed by CD11c analysis. Furthermore, no cytotoxic effects were observed in the cells treated with AEPa.

Conclusion

Results demonstrate that AEPa promotes the differentiation of bone marrow cells, particularly into macrophages and may hold promise as an immunomodulating agent.

4β-Hydroxywithanolide E isolated from Physalis pruinosa calyx decreases inflammatory responses by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling in diabetic mouse adipose tissue

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation in adipose tissue together with obesity induces insulin resistance. Inhibitors of chronic inflammation in adipose tissue can be a potent candidate for the treatment of diabetes; however, only a few compounds have been discovered so far. The objective of this study was to find a novel inhibitor that can suppress the inflammatory response in adipose tissue and to elucidate the intracellular signaling mechanisms of the compound.

METHODS

To find the active compounds, we established an assay system to evaluate the inhibition of induced MCP-1 production in adipocyte/macrophage coculture in a plant extract library. The active compound was isolated by performing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and was determined as 4β-hydroxywithanolide E (4βHWE) by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopy (MS) spectral analyses. The effect of 4βHWE on inflammation in adipose tissue was assessed with adipocyte culture and db/db mice.

RESULTS

During the screening process, Physalis pruinosa calyx extract was found to inhibit production of MCP-1 in coculture strongly. 4βHWE belongs to the withanolide family of compounds, and it has the strongest MCP-1 production inhibitory effect and lowest toxicity than any other withanolides in coculture. Its anti-inflammatory effect was partially dependent on the attenuation of NF-κB signaling in adipocyte. Moreover, in vivo experiments showed that the oral administration of 4βHWE to db/db mice resulted in the inhibition of macrophage invasion and cytokine expression in adipose tissue after 2 weeks of treatment; improved the plasma adiponectin, non-esterified fatty acids and MCP-1 concentrations; and increased glucose tolerance after 3 to 4 weeks of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that 4βHWE has anti-inflammatory effect via inhibition of NF-κB activation in adipocyte. Moreover, the attenuation of inflammation in adipocyte has an effect on the inhibition of macrophage accumulation in obese adipose tissue. Consequently, 4βHWE improves impaired glucose tolerance. Thus, 4βHWE is a useful natural anti-inflammatory compound to attenuate progression of diabetes and obesity.

Genotoxicity and antileishmanial activity evaluation of Physalis angulata concentrated ethanolic extract

Antileishmanial in vitro tests, as well as Ames and micronucleus assays were performed with a concentrated ethanolic extract of Physalis angulata (EEPA) RESULTS: EEPA did not present mutagenic effect in Salmonella typhimurium strains at concentration reaching 3000 μg/plate and did not induce mutagenic effects after two oral administrations with a 24h interval at a dose level of 2000 mg/kg. EEPA presented antileishmanial activity and presented an IC₅₀ value of 5.35 ± 2.50 μg/mL and 4.50 ± 1.17 μg/mL against Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes, respectively. In the cytotoxicity test against macrophages, the EEPA had a LC₅₀ of 6.14 ± 0.59 μg/mL. Importantly, the IC₅₀ against L. amazonensis intracellular amastigotes was 1.23 ± 0.11 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION

EEPA extract is non-mutagenic and presented a promising pharmacological effect against Leishmania parasites.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-Angiogenic and Skin Whitening Activities of Phryma leptostachya var. asiatica Hara Extract

This work aimed to assess some pharmacological activities of P. leptostachya var. asiatica Hara. The dried roots of P. leptostachya var. asiatica Hara were extracted with 70% ethanol to generate the powdered extract, named PLE. Anti-angiogenic activity was detected using chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated via analyzing nitric oxide (NO) content, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Antioxidant activity was determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in the stimulated macrophage cells. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and -2 (MMP-2) activities in the culture media were detected using zymography. PLE exhibits an anti-angiogenic activity in the CAM assay, and displays an inhibitory action on the generation of NO in the LPS-stimulated macrophage cells. In the stimulated macrophage cells, it is able to diminish the enhanced ROS level. It can potently scavenge the stable DPPH free radical. It suppresses the induction of iNOS and COX-2 and the enhanced MMP-9 activity in the stimulated macrophage cells. Both monooxygenase and oxidase activities of tyrosinase were strongly inhibited by PLE. Taken together, the dried roots of P. leptostachya var. asiatica Hara possess anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and skin whitening activities, which might partly provide its therapeutic efficacy in traditional medicine.

Physangulidine A, a withanolide from Physalis angulata, perturbs the cell cycle and induces cell death by apoptosis in prostate cancer cells

Recently, our group reported the discovery of three new withanolides, physangulidines A-C, from Physalis angulata. In this study, the biological effects of physangulidine A (1), which was the most active and abundant of the three new constituents, are described. It was found that 1 significantly reduces survival in clonogenic assays for two hormone-independent prostate cancer cell lines. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy studies in DU145 human prostate cancer cells indicated that 1 induces cell cycle arrest in the G(2)/M phase and causes defective mitosis. It was determined also that 1 produces programed cell death by apoptosis, as evidenced by biochemical markers and distinct changes in cell morphology. These results imply that the antimitotic and proapoptotic effects of 1 may contribute significantly to the biological activities and potential medicinal properties of its plant of origin.

Potentiation of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cultured wild ginseng root extract through probiotic fermentation

OBJECTIVES

This work aimed to determine some pharmacological properties of non-fermented (WG) and fermented (FWG) extracts of cultured wild ginseng root.

METHODS

WG was treated with Bifidobacterium longum to generate FWG. Ginsenoside patterns were analysed using thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The effect of WG and FWG on reactive oxygen species (ROS) was examined in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Intracellular ROS were detected by flow cytometry. Nitrite in culture supernatant fractions was determined using the Griess reaction. 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl was used to determine anti-radical activity. Cell viability was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay.

KEY FINDINGS

FWG was rich in ginsenosides Rg3 and Rh2, compared with WG. FWG diminished the enhanced ROS level more strongly than WG in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Both WG and FWG decreased the nitrite levels in stimulated macrophage cells with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 2.7 and 1.5 mg/ml, respectively, implying that FWG had an enhanced anti-inflammatory activity. Neither WG nor FWG exhibited cytotoxicity on the macrophage cells. In the radical scavenging assay, the IC50 values of WG and FWG were 32.6 and 0.78 mg/ml, respectively, suggesting that FWG had an increased scavenging activity.

CONCLUSIONS

FWG possesses enhanced antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity, indicating that fermentation of cultured wild ginseng root extract with a probiotic bacterium can strengthen some of its desirable effects.

Antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory activities of 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 in cultured mammalian cell lines

Ginsenoside Rg3 is one of ginsenosides that are the well-known bioactive principles of Panax ginseng. Among the two stereoisomeric forms of Rg3, 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 [20(S)-Rg3] is predominant. 20(S)-Rg3 is capable of suppressing the nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) productions induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophage cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In the same stimulated macrophages, 20(S)-Rg3 was able to suppress matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity and suppress cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. It suppressed the production of some proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, and the cell mobility enhanced by LPS in the macrophage cells. 20(S)-Rg3 displayed suppressive effect on the ROS level but not on the NO level, and down-regulating effect on MMP-9 but not on MMP-2 in non-stimulated HaCat keratinocytes. 20(S)-Rg3 also exhibited suppressive effect on the MMP-9 gelatinolytic activity enhanced in the HaCat keratinocytes stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), one of the major proinflammatory cytokines. However, 20(S)-Rg3 was not able to modulate the NO level even in the presence of TNF-α. Taken together, anti-inflammatory and related antioxidative and MMP-9 inhibitory activities of 20(S)-Rg3, the major stereoisomeric form of ginsenoside Rg3, are confirmed in macrophage and keratinocyte cell lines.

Anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and anti-angiogenic activities of a phospholipid mixture purified from porcine lung tissues

This work aimed to assess anti-inflammatory and related properties of a phospholipid mixture purified from porcine lung tissues, named KT&G101, which is being developed as a novel topical remedy for atopic dermatitis. KT&G101 consists of pure phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylcholine (PC) and other phospholipids such as phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylserine (PS). Its predominant PC species is 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC). KT&G101 exhibited an anti-angiogenic activity in the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Oral administration of KT&G101 at the dosages of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight gave rise to an inhibition of 15.4%, 25.3% and 30.1% in the vascular permeability assay, respectively. In the carrageenan-induced inflammation in the air pouches, KT&G101 significantly diminished the volume of exudates in the pouches, the number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and nitrite content in exudates. In the acetic acid-induced writhing response, oral administration of KT&G101 at the dosages of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight showed the reduction of 21.6%, 51.6% and 60.8% in the pain response of mice, respectively. It was also able to diminish the nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. KT&G101 displayed a significant suppression on the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the stimulated RAW264.7 cells. However, the free radical scavenging activity of KT&G101 was detected to be very weak in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Taken together, KT&G101 possesses anti-inflammatory and related antinociceptive and anti-angiogenic activities, which indirectly supports its use as an anti-atopic therapy.

Activity of physalin F in a collagen-induced arthritis model

The effects of physalin F (1), a steroid derivative purified from Physalis angulata, were investigated in models of collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice and allergic airway inflammation in BALB/c mice. Oral treatment with 1 or dexamethasone caused a marked decrease in paw edema and joint inflammation when compared to vehicle-treated arthritic mice. In contrast, treatment with 1 had no effect in mice with allergic airway inflammation caused by ovalbumin immunization, whereas dexamethasone significantly reduced the number of inflammatory cells and eosinophils in the broncoalveolar lavage fluid and in lung sections of challenged mice. To further demonstrate that 1 acts through a mechanism different from that of glucocorticoids, a nuclear translocation assay was performed of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) using COS-7 cells transfected with a plasmid encoding for a yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)-GR fusion protein. Untreated or treated cells with 1 had YFP staining mainly in the cytoplasm, whereas in dexamethasone-treated cells the YFP staining was concentrated in the nuclei. It is concluded that the mechanism of the immunosuppressive activity of physalin F is distinct from that of the glucocorticoids.

Topical anti-inflammatory potential of Physalin E from Physalis angulata on experimental dermatitis in mice

The anti-inflammatory effect of physalin E, a seco-steroid isolated from Physalis angulata L. was evaluated on acute and chronic models of dermatitis induced by 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and oxazolone, respectively, in mouse ear. The changes in ear edema/thickness, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma), myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and histological and immunohistochemical findings were analysed, as indicators of dermal inflammation. Similar to dexamethasone, topically applied Physalin E (0.125; 0.25 and 0.5 mg/ear) potently inhibited the TPA and oxazolone-induced dermatitis, leading to substantial reductions in ear edema/thickness, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and MPO activity. These effects were reversed by mifepristone, a steroid antagonist and confirmed by immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. The data suggest that physalin E may be a potent and topically effective anti-inflammatory agent useful to treat the acute and chronic skin inflammatory conditions.

Labdanes and sucrose esters from Physalis sordida

Eight new compounds, labdanes 2-4, homoergostane 10, and sucrose esters 12-15, were isolated from aerial parts of Physalis sordida together with several known compounds. Structures of the new compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic evidence and chemical transformations. The structure of 10 was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis of its methyl ester. Anti-inflammatory activity of compounds 1, 2, 4, 5, and 12-15 was evaluated using the TPA-induced mouse ear edema test. Compounds 12 (IC(50) 0.26 mumol/ear) and 15 (IC(50) 0.24 mumol/ear) showed anti-inflammatory activity similar to that of indomethacin (IC(50) 0.24 mumol/ear).

Antimicrobial activity of essential oils of Physalis angulata. L

The need for a reduction in drug resistance led to the investigation of Argemone Mexicana L. as an agent against Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida stellatoidea and Candida torulopsis, using well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentrations methods. The sensitivity of Bacillus Subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus to the essential oils of both the aerial and root parts were determined. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was resistant to the essential oil from both the aerial and root part of the plant. C. torulopsis, C. stellatoidea and C. albicans were susceptible to the essential oils from the aerial and root part of the plant. The minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging between 3.75 mg/ml and 4.0 mg/ml were recorded for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae by the aerial and the root extracts, but P. aeruginosa and S. aureus were not susceptible to the aerial and root extracts. The observed inhibition of selected bacteria and fungi by oils of Physalis angulata makes it a promising antimicrobial agent. This study justifies its uses for treatment of sores, cuts, intestinal and digestive problems and some skin-diseases often reported in folkloric medicine.

Anti-inflammatory function of Withangulatin A by targeted inhibiting COX-2 expression via MAPK and NF-kappaB pathways

Withangulatin A (WA), an active component isolated from Physalis angulata L., has been reported to possess anti-tumor and trypanocidal activities in model systems via multiple biochemical mechanisms. The aim of this study is to investigate its anti-inflammatory potential and the possible underlying mechanisms. In the current study, WA significantly suppressed mice T lymphocytes proliferation stimulated with LPS in a dose- and time-dependent manner and inhibited pro-inflammation cytokines (IL-2, IFN-gamma, and IL-6) dramatically. Moreover, WA targeted inhibited COX-2 expression mediated by MAPKs and NF-kappaB nuclear translocation pathways in mice T lymphocytes, and this result was further confirmed by the COX-1/2 luciferase reporter assay. Intriguingly, administration of WA inhibited the extent of mice ear swelling and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines production in mice blood serum. Based on these evidences, WA influences the mice T lymphocytes function through targeted inhibiting COX-2 expression via MAPKs and NF-kappaB nuclear translocation signaling pathways, and this would make WA a strong candidate for further study as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Evaluation of anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of coenzyme Q10 in experimental animals

Objectives

This work aimed to assess some pharmacological activities of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in animal experimental models.

Methods

The chick chorioallantoic membrane assay was used to evaluate anti-angiogenic activity of CoQ10. Anti-inflammatory activity of CoQ10 was confirmed using two animal models of inflammation. These were the vascular permeability and air pouch models, models of acute and sub-acute inflammation, respectively. Antinociceptive activity was assessed by the acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction response.

Key findings

CoQ10 dose-dependently displayed inhibition of chick chorioallantoic membrane angiogenesis. In the acetic acid-induced vascular permeability model in mice, CoQ10 at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg reduced vascular permeability from 0.74 ± 0.01 (A590) to 0.67 ± 0.01 (P &lt; 0.01), 0.46 ± 0.02 (P &lt; 0.01) and 0.30 ± 0.01 (P &lt; 0.01), respectively. In the carrageenan-induced inflammation in the air pouch, CoQ10 was able to diminish exudate volume, the number of polymorphonulcear leucocytes and nitrite content in the air pouches. CoQ10 at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly reduced acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction in mice from 27.0 ± 2.00 (number of abdominal constrictions) to 17.7 ± 0.33 (P &lt; 0.01), 9.3 ± 0.67 (P &lt; 0.01) and 1.3 ± 0.33 (P &lt; 0.01), respectively, suggesting a strong antinociceptive activity.

Conclusions

CoQ10 possessed considerable anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity, possibly via down-regulating the level of nitric oxide, which partly supported its use as a dietary supplement and in combination therapy.