1
|
Ghosh S, Kumar V, Mukherjee H, Saini S, Gupta S, Chauhan S, Kushwaha K, Lahiri D, Sircar D, Roy P. Assessment of the mechanistic role of an Indian traditionally used ayurvedic herb Bacopa monnieri (L.)Wettst. for ameliorating oxidative stress in neuronal cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:117899. [PMID: 38341111 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE This study has important ethnopharmacological implications since it systematically investigated the therapeutic potential of Bacopa monnieri(L.) Wettst. (Brahmi) in treating neurological disorders characterized by oxidative stress-a growing issue in the aging population. Bacopa monnieri, which is strongly rooted in Ayurveda, has long been recognized for its neuroprotective and cognitive advantages. The study goes beyond conventional wisdom by delving into the molecular complexities of Bacopa monnieri, particularly its active ingredient, Bacoside-A, in countering oxidative stress. The study adds to the ethnopharmacological foundation for using this herbal remedy in the context of neurodegenerative disorders by unravelling the scientific underpinnings of Bacopa monnieri's effectiveness, particularly at the molecular level, against brain damage and related conditions influenced by oxidative stress. This dual approach, which bridges traditional wisdom and modern investigation, highlights Bacopa monnieri's potential as a helpful natural remedy for oxidative stress-related neurological diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study is to investigate the detailed molecular mechanism of action (in vitro, in silico and in vivo) of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. methanolic extract and its active compound, Bacoside-A, against oxidative stress in neurodegenerative disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS ROS generation activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, calcium deposition and apoptosis were studied through DCFDA, Rhodamine-123, FURA-2 AM and AO/EtBr staining respectively. In silico study to check the effect of Bacoside-A on the Nrf-2 and Keap1 axis was performed through molecular docking study and validated experimentally through immunofluorescence co-localization study. In vivo antioxidant activity of Bacopa monnieri extract was assessed by screening the oxidative stress markers and stress-inducing hormone levels as well as through histopathological analysis of tissues. RESULTS The key outcome of this study is that the methanolic extract of Bacopa monnieri (BME) and its active component, Bacoside-A, protect against oxidative stress in neurodegenerative diseases. At 100 and 20 μg/ml, BME and Bacoside-A respectively quenched ROS, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased calcium deposition, and inhibited HT-22 mouse hippocampus cell death. BME and Bacoside-A regulated the Keap1 and Nrf-2 axis and their downstream antioxidant enzyme-specific genes to modify cellular antioxidant machinery. In vivo experiments utilizing rats subjected to restrained stress indicated that pre-treatment with BME (50 mg/kg) downregulated oxidative stress markers and stress-inducing hormones, and histological staining demonstrated that BME protected the neuronal cells of the Cornu Ammonis (CA1) area in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the study suggests that Bacopa monnieri(L.) Wettst. has significant potential as a natural remedy for neurodegenerative disorders, and its active compounds could be developed as new drugs for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Ghosh
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India; Biomaterials and Multiscale Mechanics Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India; Centre of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Viney Kumar
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Haimanti Mukherjee
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Saakshi Saini
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Sumeet Gupta
- Department of Pharmacy, Maharshi Markandeshwar University (Deemed to Be University), Mullana, Haryana, 133207, India
| | - Samrat Chauhan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Komal Kushwaha
- Plant Molecular Biology Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Debrupa Lahiri
- Biomaterials and Multiscale Mechanics Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India; Centre of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Debabrata Sircar
- Plant Molecular Biology Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sun T, Du YY, Zhang YQ, Tian QQ, Li X, Yu JY, Guo YY, Liu QQ, Yang L, Wu YM, Yang Q, Zhao MG. Activation of GPR55 Ameliorates Maternal Separation-Induced Learning and Memory Deficits by Augmenting 5-HT Synthesis in the Dorsal Raphe Nucleus of Juvenile Mice. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:21838-21850. [PMID: 38799363 PMCID: PMC11112691 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Maternal separation (MS) represents a profound early life stressor with enduring impacts on neuronal development and adult cognitive function in both humans and rodents. MS is associated with persistent dysregulations in neurotransmitter systems, including the serotonin (5-HT) pathway, which is pivotal for mood stabilization and stress-coping mechanisms. Although the novel cannabinoid receptor, GPR55, is recognized for its influence on learning and memory, its implications on the function and synaptic dynamics of 5-HT neurons within the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) remain to be elucidated. In this study, we sought to discern the repercussions of GPR55 activation on 5-HT synthesis within the DRN of adult C57BL/6J mice that experienced MS. Concurrently, we analyzed potential alterations in excitatory synaptic transmission, long-term synaptic plasticity, and relevant learning and memory outcomes. Our behavioral assessments indicated a marked amelioration in MS-induced learning and memory deficits following GPR55 activation. In conjunction with this, we noted a substantial decrease in 5-HT levels in the MS model, while GPR55 activation stimulated tryptophan hydroxylase 2 synthesis and fostered the release of 5-HT. Electrophysiological patch-clamp analyses highlighted the ability of GPR55 activation to alleviate MS-induced cognitive deficits by modulating the frequency and magnitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents within the DRN. Notably, this cognitive enhancement was underpinned by the phosphorylation of both NMDA and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors. In summary, our findings underscore the capacity of GPR55 to elevate 5-HT synthesis and modify synaptic transmissions within the DRN of juvenile mice, positing GPR55 as a promising therapeutic avenue for ameliorating MS-induced cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Sun
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Ya-Ya Du
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Yong-Qiang Zhang
- Department
of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Qin-Qin Tian
- Department
of Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Air Force
Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xi Li
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Jiao-Yan Yu
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Yan-Yan Guo
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Qing-Qing Liu
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Le Yang
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Yu-Mei Wu
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Air
Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Ming-Gao Zhao
- Precision
Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical
University, Xi’an 710038, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta VS, Kale PP. Combinatory Approaches Targeting Cognitive Impairments and Memory Enhancement: A Review. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:55-70. [PMID: 36173073 DOI: 10.2174/1389450123666220928152743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to look at how natural medicines can improve cognition and memory when used with sildenafil, a popular erectile dysfunction medicine that also has nootropic properties. Newer treatment strategies to treat the early stages of these diseases need to be developed. Multiple factors lead to complex pathophysiological conditions, which are responsible for various long-term complications. In this review, a combination of treatments targeting these pathologies is discussed. These combinations may help manage early and later phases of cognitive impairments. The purpose of this article is to discuss a link between these pathologies and a combinational approach with the objective of considering newer therapeutic strategies in the treatment of cognitive impairments. The natural drugs and their ingredients play a major role in the management of disease progression. Additionally, their combination with sildenafil allows for more efficacy and better response. Studies showing the effectiveness of natural drugs and sildenafil are mentioned, and how these combinations could be beneficial for the treatment of cognitive impairments and amnesia are summarised. Furthermore, preclinical and clinical trials are required to explore the medicinal potential of these drug combinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varun Santosh Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V L M Road, Vile Parle (w), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Pravin Popatrao Kale
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, V L M Road, Vile Parle (w), Mumbai 400056, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Puri V, Kanojia N, Sharma A, Huanbutta K, Dheer D, Sangnim T. Natural product-based pharmacological studies for neurological disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1011740. [PMID: 36419628 PMCID: PMC9676372 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1011740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders and diseases are expected to rise sharply in the coming years, partly because of the world's aging population. Medicines for the treatment of the CNS have not been successfully made. Inadequate knowledge about the brain, pharmacokinetic and dynamic errors in preclinical studies, challenges with clinical trial design, complexity and variety of human brain illnesses, and variations in species are some potential scenarios. Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are multifaceted and lack identifiable etiological components, and the drugs developed to treat them did not meet the requirements of those who anticipated treatments. Therefore, there is a great demand for safe and effective natural therapeutic adjuvants. For the treatment of NDDs and other memory-related problems, many herbal and natural items have been used in the Ayurvedic medical system. Anxiety, depression, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases (AD), as well as a plethora of other neuropsychiatric disorders, may benefit from the use of plant and food-derived chemicals that have antidepressant or antiepileptic properties. We have summarized the present level of knowledge about natural products based on topological evidence, bioinformatics analysis, and translational research in this review. We have also highlighted some clinical research or investigation that will help us select natural products for the treatment of neurological conditions. In the present review, we have explored the potential efficacy of phytoconstituents against neurological diseases. Various evidence-based studies and extensive recent investigations have been included, which will help pharmacologists reduce the progression of neuronal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Puri
- Chitkara School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neha Kanojia
- Chitkara School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Ameya Sharma
- Chitkara School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Kampanart Huanbutta
- School of Pharmacy, Eastern Asia University, Rangsit, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Divya Dheer
- Chitkara School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Tanikan Sangnim
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Burapha University, Muang, Chon Buri, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fatima U, Roy S, Ahmad S, Al-Keridis LA, Alshammari N, Adnan M, Islam A, Hassan MI. Investigating neuroprotective roles of Bacopa monnieri extracts: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113469. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
|
6
|
Zaazaa AM, Daoud NN, El-Gendy OA, Al-Shafei AI. Neuroprotective role of Bacopa monnieri extract in modulating depression in an experimental rat model. J Affect Disord 2022; 308:229-235. [PMID: 35413358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a common illness with no definite treatment. METHODS The study involved 2 experimental periods; 45-day (P1) followed by 30-day (P2). 40 adult albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Grp 1 received saline orally while Grp 2 reserpine inraperitoneally (ip) during P1 and P2. Grps 3 and 4 received reserpine during P1, followed by reserpine plus B. monnieri, and reserpine plus citalopram ip during P2, respectively. Forced swimming test (FST) was performed at beginning and end of P1 and P2. Animals were sacrificed by end of P2 and brain taken for histopathological examination and ELISA estimation of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, BDNF, MCP-1, FAS, and Bcl-2. RESULTS During P1, reserpine prolonged immobility time (IT) in FST in Grps 2, 3, and 4. IT was subsequently lowered in Grps 3 and 4 but remained elevated in Grp 2 by end of P2. Serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine were lowered in Grps 2, 3, and 4, but in Grps 3 and 4, levels were comparable to Grp1. BDNF and Bc1-2 were reduced in Grps 2, 3, and 4, with higher levels in Grps 3 and 4 than Grp 2. MCP-1 and FAS were elevated in Grps 2, 3, and 4, but levels were lower in Grps 3 and 4 than in Grp 2. Histopathology showed congested cerebral cortex in Grp 2 and normal cortex in other groups. LIMITATIONS Only adult male rats were involved and effects of co-administration of B. monnieri and citalopram were not characterized. CONCLUSION B. monnieri improves depression comparable to citalopram in reserpine-induced depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M Zaazaa
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nadia N Daoud
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ola A El-Gendy
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad I Al-Shafei
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Effects of a Bacopa monnieri extract (Bacognize®) on stress, fatigue, quality of life and sleep in adults with self-reported poor sleep: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
|
8
|
Abd Elkader HTAE, Abdou HM, Khamiss OA, Essawy AE. Anti-anxiety and antidepressant-like effects of astragaloside IV and saponins extracted from Astragalus spinosus against the bisphenol A-induced motor and cognitive impairments in a postnatal rat model of schizophrenia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:35171-35187. [PMID: 33666843 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-12927-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical endocrine disruptor to which humans are often exposed in daily life. Postnatal administration of BPA results in schizophrenia (SCZ)-like behaviours in rats. The present study was designed to elucidate whether treatment with astragaloside IV (ASIV) or saponins extracted from Astragalus spinosus improves the neurobehavioural and neurochemical disturbances induced by BPA. Fifty-two juvenile (PND20) male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The rats in Group I were considered the control rats, while the rats in Group II were orally administered BPA (125 mg/kg) daily from PND20 to adult age (PND117). The rats in the third and fourth groups were administered BPA (125 mg/kg/day) supplemented with astragaloside IV (80 mg/kg/d) on PND20 or A. spinosus saponins (100 mg/kg/d) from PND50 to PND117, respectively. Administration of ASIV and saponins extracted from Astragalus spinosus reversed the anxiogenic and depressive-like behaviours and the social defects that were observed in the rats treated with BPA alone. Additionally, these compounds improved memory impairments, restored dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and monoamine oxidase (MAO-A) levels and normalized Tph2 mRNA expression towards the control values. Taken together, it can be concluded that orally administered ASIV and A. spinosus saponins exhibit neuroprotective effects and that these compounds can be used as therapeutic strategies against BPA-induced neuropsychiatric symptoms in a rat model of SCZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Heba Mohamed Abdou
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Omaima Ahmed Khamiss
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Sadat City University, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Amina Essawy Essawy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Prabhakar S, Vishnu VY, Modi M, Mohanty M, Sharma A, Medhi B, Mittal BR, Khandelwal N, Goyal MK, Lal V, Singla R, Kansal A, Avasthi A. Efficacy of Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi) and Donepezil in Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Double-Blind Parallel Phase 2b Study. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2021; 23:767-773. [PMID: 33688125 PMCID: PMC7900738 DOI: 10.4103/aian.aian_610_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia worldwide in the older population. There is no disease-modifying therapy available for AD. The current standard of care drug therapy for AD is cholinesterase inhibitors, including donepezil. Bacopa monnieri or brahmi is used in traditional Indian medicine for memory loss. We conducted a phase 2b randomized controlled trial (RCT) to find out the efficacy of brahmi and donepezil in AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Patients and Methods: The study was planned as a 52 week, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, phase-2 single-center clinical trial comparing the efficacy and safety of Bacopa monnieri (brahmi) 300 mg OD and donepezil 10 mg OD for 12 months in 48 patients with AD and MCI-AD including cognitive and quality of life outcomes. The primary outcome was differences in the change from baseline of the neuropsychological tests [Alzheimer's disease assessment scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog) and postgraduate institute (PGI) memory scale] at 12 months between the intervention group (brahmi) and active comparison group (donepezil). Results: The study was terminated after 3 years and 9 months, after recruiting 34 patients, because of slow recruitment and a high dropout rate. Intention to treat analysis after adjusting for baseline confounders showed no difference in the rate of change in ADAS-Cog score from baseline at any time point, including the last follow-up. There was no difference in the rate of change in PGI Memory scale (PGIMS) at 3, 6, and 9 months. In the last follow-up, there was a significant difference in the change in total PGIMS score between brahmi and donepezil, while there was no difference in individual scores of the PGI memory scale. Conclusion: This phase-2 RCT on the efficacy of brahmi vs. donepezil showed no significant difference between them after 1 year of treatment. Larger phase-3 trials, preferably multicentric, are required to find the superiority of brahmi over donepezil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudesh Prabhakar
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Manish Modi
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Manju Mohanty
- Clinical Neuropsychology, Department of Neurosurgery, Aarogya Clinic, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anchal Sharma
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Bikas Medhi
- Department of Pharmacology, Aarogya Clinic, Chandigarh, India
| | - B R Mittal
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Aarogya Clinic, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Manoj K Goyal
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vivek Lal
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rajesh Singla
- Ayurvedic Consultant, Aarogya Clinic, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Ajit Avasthi
- Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jonnalagadda B, Arockiasamy S, Vetrivel U, P A A. In silico docking of phytocompounds to identify potent inhibitors of signaling pathways involved in prostate cancer. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:5182-5208. [PMID: 32643549 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1785944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Androgens and androgen receptors (AR) are the master regulators in the development of prostate cancer. Majority of the patients show positive response to surgical or medical castration, while many patients show disease relapse after the treatment. Genomic profiling has proven that the deregulated PI3K, Ras/Raf, MAPK and EGFR signaling pathways confer survival and invasion advantage to the cancer cells. Thus, modulation of these interlinked growth pathways along with androgen ablation may provide attractive therapeutic benefits. The current research is focused to identify the inhibitors of these pathways with bacosides and Piperine. The quantitative estimation of bacosides enriched standard extract of Bacopa monnieri by HPTLC showed 59.38% of Bacoside A and various active compounds with anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory properties were also analyzed by GC-MS analysis. The in-vitro cytotoxic study against PC3 cell lines showed dose-dependent effect of Piperine and the extract. Further, in silico docking has shown bacosides with significant molecular interactions and binding score with growth factor receptors such as EGFR, PI3K, Akt and ERK, whereas Piperine exhibited interactions with AR. Hence, a simultaneous downregulation of interlinked signaling pathways of growth factors and AR with bacosides and Piperine may produce effective cytotoxic potential against the androgen-independent prostate cancer. Further in-vitro and in-vivo experimental investigations are necessary to determine the ultimate therapeutic utility. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana Jonnalagadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Sumathy Arockiasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Umashankar Vetrivel
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya Research Institute, Chennai, India
| | - Abhinand P A
- Department of Bioinformatics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Preparation of a Unique Bioavailable Bacoside Formulation (Cognique®) Using Polar-Nonpolar-Sandwich (PNS) Technology and Its Characterization, In Vitro Release Study, and Proposed Mechanism of Action. REGENERATIVE ENGINEERING AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40883-020-00162-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
12
|
In Vitro Propagation, Phytochemical and Neuropharmacological Profiles of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst.: A Review. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9040411. [PMID: 32224997 PMCID: PMC7238420 DOI: 10.3390/plants9040411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri has been used as a reputed drug in the Indian traditional ayurvedic system for centuries. This medicinal herb with important phytopharmaceuticals has been popularly known as “Brahmi”. In recent years, B. monnieri has been extensively studied for its bioactive constituents, constituents responsible for memory enhancing effect, and also its diverse other useful effects. It possesses many pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, gastrointestinal, endocrine, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory etc. The plant has been also used for the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. Due to its multipurpose therapeutic potential, micropropagation using axillary meristems and de novo organogenesis has been extensively studied in the species and is being reviewed. High frequency direct shoot organogenesis can be induced in excised leaf and internode explants in the absence of exogenous phytohormones and the rate of induction is enhanced in the presence of exogenous cytokinins, supplements, growth regulators, etc. Using explants from tissue culture raised plants, direct shoot regeneration leading to production of more than 100 rooted plants/explant within 8–12 weeks period with 85%–100% survival in the field after acclimatization can be expected following optimized protocols. Bioreactor based micropropagation was found to increase the multiplication rate of shoot cultures for the commercial propagation of B. monnieri plants. The maximum content of bacosides has been recorded in shoot biomass using an airlift bioreactor system. Further studies for the biosynthesis of bacosides and other secondary metabolites need to be conducted in the species utilizing untransformed shoot cultures in bioreactors.
Collapse
|
13
|
Peterson CT. Dysfunction of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Neurodegenerative Disease: The Promise of Therapeutic Modulation With Prebiotics, Medicinal Herbs, Probiotics, and Synbiotics. J Evid Based Integr Med 2020; 25:2515690X20957225. [PMID: 33092396 PMCID: PMC7586271 DOI: 10.1177/2515690x20957225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent data suggest gut microbiota dysbiosis as a contributing factor in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Alzheimer's Disease (AD), and these pathologies may manifest via the microbiota-gut-brain-axis, which comprises bidirectional communication through neuroimmune, neuroendocrine, and direct neural pathways such as the vagus nerve. Preclinical and human clinical trial data reveal exciting potential for novel treatment targets and therapeutic modulation with prebiotics, medicinal herbs, probiotics, and synbiotics in health, aging, and neurodegeneration and are reviewed here. While greater insights and characterization of the microbiota-gut-brain axis have been revealed over the past decade, salient questions related to the pathology, pathogenesis and clinical treatment of the axis in the context of both health and neurodegenerative disease remain and are discussed in this review. Future directions such as additional well-controlled, large scale, longitudinal human clinical trials are urgently needed to further elucidate both mechanism and therapeutic opportunity in health, neurological disease, and disease subpopulations to ensure that the next decade ushers the dawn of targeted therapeutic modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Tara Peterson
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Center of Excellence for Research and Training in Integrative Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sukumaran NP, Amalraj A, Gopi S. Neuropharmacological and cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst - A review on its mechanistic aspects. Complement Ther Med 2019; 44:68-82. [PMID: 31126578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri (L.) - (BM) is a perennial, creeping herb which is widely used in traditional ayurvedic medicine as a neural tonic to improve intelligence and memory. Research into the biological effects of this plant has burgeoned in recent years, promising its neuroprotective and memory boosting ability among others. In this context, an extensive literature survey allows an insight into the participation of numerous signaling pathways and oxidative mechanism involved in the mitigation of oxidative stress, along with other indirect mechanisms modulated by bioactive molecules of BM to improve the cognitive action by their synergistic potential and cellular multiplicity mechanism. This multi-faceted review describes the novel mechanisms that underlie the unfounded but long flaunted promises of BM and thereby direct a way to harness this acquired knowledge to develop innovative approaches to manipulate its intracellular pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Augustine Amalraj
- R&D Centre, Aurea Biolabs (P) Ltd, Kolenchery, Cochin 682 311, Kerala, India
| | - Sreeraj Gopi
- R&D Centre, Aurea Biolabs (P) Ltd, Kolenchery, Cochin 682 311, Kerala, India.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Antidepressant Effect of Tetragonia tetragonoides (Pall.) Kuntze Extract on Serotonin Turnover. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:7312842. [PMID: 30854015 PMCID: PMC6378020 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7312842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Tetragonia tetragonoides (Pall.) Kuntze (TTK) is a groundcover found along coastal areas of the Korean peninsula. TTK is traditionally used to improve women's health and treat gastrointestinal diseases. Use of herbal medicines in the treatment of mood disorders has recently been suggested as an alternative therapeutic strategy. In the present study, we determined that consumption of TTK extract ameliorated progression of depressive-like symptoms in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and further examined the mechanisms involved, i.e., synthesis, release, and reuptake(s) of serotonin (also known as 5-HT). We assessed the mRNA expression levels of tryptophan hydroxylases (TPH-1 and TPH-2) and serotonin transporter (SERT) as well as the reuptake activity of serotonin in RBL-2H3 cells. We also determined whether or not TTK extract regulates the serum level of serotonin and improves depressive-like symptoms in 0.5, 1, and 2% TTK-fed OVX female rats in a forced swimming test. Our results show that the mRNA levels of TPH-1 and SERT were significantly reduced, whereas the mRNA level of TPH-2 was dose-dependently elevated by TTK (50 and 100 μg/mL) in RBL-2H3 cells. TTK significantly inhibited LPS- (lipopolysaccharide-) induced serotonin uptake in RBL-2H3 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The serum level(s) of serotonin was elevated by 1% and 2% TTK treatment in OVX female rats. Moreover, immobility time in the forced swimming test was reduced by 1% and 2% TTK treatment but not altered by 0.5% TTK treatment in OVX female rats. Taken together, these results indicate that TTK may significantly inhibit depressive-like symptoms due to upregulation of serotonin level(s) and regulation of serotonin reuptake activity. Thus, TTK may exert beneficial effects on depression during pre- or/and postmenopausal periods via modulation of serotonin synthesis and metabolism.
Collapse
|
16
|
Mitra-Ganguli T, Kalita S, Bhushan S, Stough C, Kean J, Wang N, Sethi V, Khadilkar A. A Randomized, Double-Blind Study Assessing Changes in Cognitive Function in Indian School Children Receiving a Combination of Bacopa monnieri and Micronutrient Supplementation vs. Placebo. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:678. [PMID: 29204115 PMCID: PMC5699204 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have indicated a chronic cognitive enhancing effect of Bacopa monnieri across different ages and cognitive impairment associated with vitamin and mineral deficiencies in children. Therefore, we investigated the effects of 4-month supplementation with a combination of B. monnieri extract and multiple micronutrients on cognitive functions in Indian school children aged 7–12 years. This was a randomized, double-blind, parallel design, single-center study in which 300 children were randomized to receive a beverage either fortified with B. monnieri and multiple micronutrients (“fortified”) or a non-fortified isocaloric equivalent (“control”) twice-daily for 4 months. Cognitive function was assessed by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Test Battery (CANTAB) administered at baseline, Day 60 and Day 121. The primary endpoint was change in short-term memory (working memory) from baseline in subjects receiving “fortified” vs. “control” beverages after 4 months. Secondary endpoints included sustained attention, episodic memory, and executive function. The “fortified” beverage did not significantly improve short-term memory or any of the secondary outcomes tested relative to the “control” beverage. However, the spatial working memory “strategy” score showed significant improvement on Day 60 (difference between groups in change from baseline: −0.55; p < 0.05), but not on Day 121 due to the active intervention. Study products were well-tolerated. Reasons for these unexpected findings are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Con Stough
- Swinburne Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Victoria, BC, Australia
| | - James Kean
- Swinburne Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Victoria, BC, Australia
| | - Nan Wang
- GSK Research and Development Centre, Haryana, India
| | - Vidhu Sethi
- GSK Research and Development Centre, Haryana, India
| | - Anuradha Khadilkar
- Jehangir Clinical Development Centre Pvt. Ltd., Jehangir Hospital Premises, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Leung HW, Foo G, Banumurthy G, Chai X, Ghosh S, Mitra-Ganguli T, VanDongen AMJ. The effect of Bacopa monnieri on gene expression levels in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182984. [PMID: 28832626 PMCID: PMC5568221 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri is a plant used as a nootropic in Ayurveda, a 5000-year-old system of traditional Indian medicine. Although both animal and clinical studies supported its role as a memory enhancer, the molecular and cellular mechanism underlying Bacopa's nootropic action are not understood. In this study, we used deep sequencing (RNA-Seq) to identify the transcriptome changes upon Bacopa treatment on SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. We identified several genes whose expression levels were regulated by Bacopa. Biostatistical analysis of the RNA-Seq data identified biological pathways and molecular functions that were regulated by Bacopa, including regulation of mRNA translation and transmembrane transport, responses to oxidative stress and protein misfolding. Pathway analysis using the Ingenuity platform suggested that Bacopa may protect against brain damage and improve brain development. These newly identified molecular and cellular determinants may contribute to the nootropic action of Bacopa and open up a new direction of investigation into its mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- How-Wing Leung
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gabriel Foo
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Xiaoran Chai
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sujoy Ghosh
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Antonius M J VanDongen
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Shahid M, Subhan F, Ahmad N, Ullah I. A bacosides containing Bacopa monnieri extract alleviates allodynia and hyperalgesia in the chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain in rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2017; 17:293. [PMID: 28583132 PMCID: PMC5460461 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-1807-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current therapy of neuropathic pain is inadequate and is limited by the extent of pain relief and the occurrence of dose dependant side effects. Insufficient control of pain with conventional medications prompts the use of complementary and alternative medicine therapies by patients with neuropathic pain. This study therefore investigated a standardized methanolic extract of Bacopa monnieri, a widely reputed nootropic plant, for prospective antinociceptive effect in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain. METHODS Placement of four loose ligatures around the sciatic nerve produced partial denervation of the hindpaw in rats. Bacopa monnieri (40 and 80 mg/kg, p.o) and the positive control, gabapentin (75 mg/kg, i.p), were administered daily after CCI or sham surgery and the behavioral paradigms of static- and dynamic-allodynia (paw withdrawal threshold to von Frey filament stimulation [PWT] and paw withdrawal latency to light-brushing [PWL]), cold-allodynia (paw withdrawal duration [PWD] to acetone), heat- (PWL to heat-stimulus) and punctate-hyperalgesia (PWD to pin-prick) were assessed on days 3, 7, 14 and 21. RESULTS CCI consistently generated static- (days 3-21), dynamic- (days 14-21) and cold-allodynia (days 3-21) plus heat- and mechano-hyperalgesia (days 3-21). The tested doses of Bacopa monnieri significantly attenuated the CCI-induced allodynia and hyperalgesia, exemplified by increased PWT (days 7-21), PWL to light brushing (days 14-21) and heat (days 7-21) as well as decreased PWD to pin prick and cold stimuli (days 3-21). The extract also counterbalanced the CCI-induced aberrations in the nociceptive behaviors by increasing the pain threshold to that of pre-surgery baseline. Gabapentin also afforded analogous beneficial behavioral profile but of higher magnitude. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that Bacopa monnieri can be used as adjuvant therapy for neuropathic pain conditions afflicted with allodynia and hyperalgesia.
Collapse
|
19
|
Mathur D, Goyal K, Koul V, Anand A. The Molecular Links of Re-Emerging Therapy: A Review of Evidence of Brahmi (Bacopa monniera). Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:44. [PMID: 26973531 PMCID: PMC4778428 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The convolution associated with memory is being resolved with advancement in neuroscience. According to the concurrent assumptions, synaptic plasticity forms one of the basis of memory formation, stabilization and strengthening. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is generally characterized by memory dysfunction, connections amongst the cells in the brain are attenuated or lost leading to degeneration of neural networks. Numerous attempts have been made to find new therapies for memory dysfunction with increasing attention and investments being laid on herbal drugs. Many herbal plants and extracts have already documented beneficial results when tested for antiamnesic effects. Brahmi (Bacopa monniera) is one such common herbal drug, which is employed for a long time in the Indian and Chinese medical system in order to treat several disorders. Previous research has shown that Brahmi exerts many pharmacological effects including memory boosting capacity in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and Schizophrenia, exhibiting antiparkinsonian, antistroke, and anticonvulsant potentials. The present review discusses the chemical constituents of Brahmi along with in vitro and in vivo studies based on the pharmacological effects exerted by it. The efficacy of Brahmi in treating various disorders has evoked sufficient research in recent years and now it is a time to launch multiple clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepali Mathur
- Department of Functional Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia Valencia, Spain
| | - Kritika Goyal
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh, India
| | - Veena Koul
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology New Delhi, India
| | - Akshay Anand
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Molecular and Functional Characterization of Bacopa monniera: A Retrospective Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:945217. [PMID: 26413131 PMCID: PMC4564644 DOI: 10.1155/2015/945217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 50 years, laboratories around the world analyzed the pharmacological effect of Bacopa monniera extract in different dimensions, especially as a nerve tonic and memory enhancer. Studies in animal model evidenced that Bacopa treatment can attenuate dementia and enhances memory. Further, they demonstrate that Bacopa primarily either acts via antioxidant mechanism (i.e., neuroprotection) or alters different neurotransmitters (serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), dopamine (DA), acetylcholine (ACh), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)) to execute the pharmacological effect. Among them, 5-HT has been shown to fine tune the neural plasticity, which is a substrate for memory formation. This review focuses on the studies which trace the effect of Bacopa treatment on serotonergic system and 5-HT mediated key molecular changes that are associated with memory formation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Ramasamy S, Chin SP, Sukumaran SD, Buckle MJC, Kiew LV, Chung LY. In Silico and In Vitro Analysis of Bacoside A Aglycones and Its Derivatives as the Constituents Responsible for the Cognitive Effects of Bacopa monnieri. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126565. [PMID: 25965066 PMCID: PMC4428790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory and cognition. The active constituent responsible for its pharmacological effects is bacoside A, a mixture of dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins containing sugar chains linked to a steroid aglycone skeleton. Triterpenoid saponins have been reported to be transformed in vivo to metabolites that give better biological activity and pharmacokinetic characteristics. Thus, the activities of the parent compounds (bacosides), aglycones (jujubogenin and pseudojujubogenin) and their derivatives (ebelin lactone and bacogenin A1) were compared using a combination of in silico and in vitro screening methods. The compounds were docked into 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, D1, D2, M1 receptors and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) using AutoDock and their central nervous system (CNS) drug-like properties were determined using Discovery Studio molecular properties and ADMET descriptors. The compounds were screened in vitro using radioligand receptor binding and AChE inhibition assays. In silico studies showed that the parent bacosides were not able to dock into the chosen CNS targets and had poor molecular properties as a CNS drug. In contrast, the aglycones and their derivatives showed better binding affinity and good CNS drug-like properties, were well absorbed through the intestines and had good blood brain barrier (BBB) penetration. Among the compounds tested in vitro, ebelin lactone showed binding affinity towards M1 (Ki = 0.45 μM) and 5-HT2A (4.21 μM) receptors. Bacoside A and bacopaside X (9.06 μM) showed binding affinity towards the D1 receptor. None of the compounds showed any inhibitory activity against AChE. Since the stimulation of M1 and 5-HT2A receptors has been implicated in memory and cognition and ebelin lactone was shown to have the strongest binding energy, highest BBB penetration and binding affinity towards M1 and 5-HT2A receptors, we suggest that B. monnieri constituents may be transformed in vivo to the active form before exerting their pharmacological activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seetha Ramasamy
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sek Peng Chin
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sri Devi Sukumaran
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Lik Voon Kiew
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Lip Yong Chung
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Center for Natural Products and Drug Research (CENAR), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen S, Huang X, Yu T, Li X, Cao Y, Li X, Xu F, Yang F, Jesse FF, Xu M, Li W, He L, He G. Association study of TPH2 polymorphisms and bipolar disorder in the Han Chinese population. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2015; 56:97-100. [PMID: 25152196 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a serious and common mental disorder with high heritability. The serotonergic system is known to be implicated in the etiology of the disorder. Tryptophan hydroxylase isoform-2 (TPH2), which controls the synthesis of serotonin in the brain, has been suggested as a candidate gene for BDP. The aim of this study was to examine the association between the polymorphisms in TPH2 and BPD. METHODS We conducted a case-control study by genotyping six SNPs (rs10784941, rs1386494, rs2171363, rs4760816, rs1386486, and rs1872824) in 506 bipolar patients and 507 controls of Chinese Han origin. RESULTS rs10784941 was not in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and therefore excluded from further analysis. rs1386486 and rs1872824 showed statistically significant differences between cases and controls in genotype frequencies (rs1386486: p=0.043351; rs1872824: p=0.016563), but no association in allele frequencies. Strong LD was found among rs1386494, rs2171363 and rs4760816, but no positive association with BPD was found for haplotypes. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that in the Han Chinese population TPH2 may be a potential susceptibility gene for bipolar disorder. Further studies are needed to validate this association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiqing Chen
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xiaoye Huang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xin Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yanfei Cao
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xingwang Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Fengping Yang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Forrest Fabian Jesse
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Mingqing Xu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Weidong Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Lin He
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes of Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Guang He
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rajathei DM, Preethi J, Singh HK, Rajan KE. Molecular docking of bacosides with tryptophan hydroxylase: a model to understand the bacosides mechanism. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2014; 4:251-255. [PMID: 25089244 PMCID: PMC4111882 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-014-0031-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) catalyses l-tryptophan into 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan, which is the first and rate-limiting step of serotonin (5-HT) biosynthesis. Earlier, we found that TPH2 up-regulated in the hippocampus of postnatal rats after the oral treatment of Bacopa monniera leaf extract containing the active compound bacosides. However, the knowledge about the interactions between bacosides with TPH is limited. In this study, we take advantage of in silico approach to understand the interaction of bacoside-TPH complex using three different docking algorithms such as HexDock, PatchDock and AutoDock. All these three algorithms showed that bacoside A and A3 well fit into the cavity consists of active sites. Further, our analysis revealed that major active compounds bacoside A3 and A interact with different residues of TPH through hydrogen bond. Interestingly, Tyr235, Thr265 and Glu317 are the key residues among them, but none of them are either at tryptophan or BH4 binding region. However, its note worthy to mention that Tyr 235 is a catalytic sensitive residue, Thr265 is present in the flexible loop region and Glu317 is known to interacts with Fe. Interactions with these residues may critically regulate TPH function and thus serotonin synthesis. Our study suggested that the interaction of bacosides (A3/A) with TPH might up-regulate its activity to elevate the biosynthesis of 5-HT, thereby enhances learning and memory formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Mary Rajathei
- Department of Bioinformtics, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024 India
| | - Jayakumar Preethi
- Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024 India
| | - Hemant K. Singh
- Laboratories of CNS Disorder, Learning & Memory, Division of Pharmacology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031 India
| | - Koilmani Emmanuvel Rajan
- Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024 India
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Stimulation of 5-HT2C receptors improves cognitive deficits induced by human tryptophan hydroxylase 2 loss of function mutation. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:1125-34. [PMID: 24196946 PMCID: PMC3957106 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2013.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms in the gene encoding the serotonin synthesis enzyme Tph2 have been identified in mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, autism, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Deficits in cognitive flexibility and perseverative behaviors are shared common symptoms in these disorders. However, little is known about the impact of Tph2 gene variants on cognition. Mice expressing a human TPH2 variant (Tph2-KI) were used to investigate cognitive consequences of TPH2 loss of function and pharmacological treatments. We applied a recently developed behavioral assay, the automated H-maze, to study cognitive functions in Tph2-KI mice. This assay involves the consecutive discovery of three different rules: a delayed alternation task, a non-alternation task, and a delayed reversal task. Possible contribution of locomotion, reward, and sensory perception were also investigated. The expression of loss-of-function mutant Tph2 in mice was associated with impairments in reversal learning and cognitive flexibility, accompanied by perseverative behaviors similar to those observed in human clinical studies. Pharmacological restoration of 5-HT synthesis with 5-hydroxytryptophan or treatment with the 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist CP809.101 reduced cognitive deficits in Tph2-KI mice and abolished perseveration. In contrast, treatment with the psychostimulant methylphenidate exacerbated cognitive deficits in mutant mice. Results from this study suggest a contribution of TPH2 in the regulation of cognition. Furthermore, identification of a role for a 5-HT(2) receptor agonist as a cognition-enhancing agent in mutant mice suggests a potential avenue to explore for the personalized treatment of cognitive symptoms in humans with reduced 5-HT synthesis and TPH2 polymorphisms.
Collapse
|
25
|
Preethi J, Singh HK, Venkataraman JS, Rajan KE. Standardised extract of Bacopa monniera (CDRI-08) improves contextual fear memory by differentially regulating the activity of histone acetylation and protein phosphatases (PP1α, PP2A) in hippocampus. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2014; 34:577-89. [PMID: 24610280 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-014-0042-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Contextual fear conditioning is a paradigm for investigating cellular mechanisms involved in hippocampus-dependent memory. Earlier, we showed that standardised extract of Bacopa monniera (CDRI-08) improves hippocampus-dependent learning in postnatal rats by elevating the level of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), activate 5-HT3A receptors, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding (CREB) protein. In this study, we have further examined the molecular mechanism of CDRI-08 in hippocampus-dependent memory and compared to the histone deacetylase (HDACs) inhibitor sodium butyrate (NaB). To assess the hippocampus-dependent memory, wistar rat pups were subjected to contextual fear conditioning (CFC) following daily (postnatal days 15-29) administration of vehicle solution (0.5 % gum acacia + 0.9 % saline)/CDRI-08 (80 mg/kg, p.o.)/NaB (1.2 g/kg in PBS, i.p.). CDRI-08/NaB treated group showed enhanced freezing behavior compared to control group when re-exposed to the same context. Administration of CDRI-08/NaB resulted in activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase ERK/CREB signaling cascade and up-regulation of p300, Ac-H3 and Ac-H4 levels, and down-regulation of HDACs (1, 2) and protein phosphatases (PP1α, PP2A) in hippocampus following CFC. This would subsequently result in an increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) (exon IV) mRNA in hippocampus. Altogether, our results indicate that CDRI-08 enhances hippocampus-dependent contextual memory by differentially regulating histone acetylation and protein phosphatases in hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayakumar Preethi
- Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, India
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Aguiar S, Borowski T. Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation Res 2013; 16:313-26. [PMID: 23772955 PMCID: PMC3746283 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2013.1431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review synthesizes behavioral research with neuromolecular mechanisms putatively involved with the low-toxicity cognitive enhancing action of Bacopa monnieri (BM), a medicinal Ayurvedic herb. BM is traditionally used for various ailments, but is best known as a neural tonic and memory enhancer. Numerous animal and in vitro studies have been conducted, with many evidencing potential medicinal properties. Several randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials have substantiated BM's nootropic utility in humans. There is also evidence for potential attenuation of dementia, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. Current evidence suggests BM acts via the following mechanisms-anti-oxidant neuroprotection (via redox and enzyme induction), acetylcholinesterase inhibition and/or choline acetyltransferase activation, β-amyloid reduction, increased cerebral blood flow, and neurotransmitter modulation (acetylcholine [ACh], 5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT], dopamine [DA]). BM appears to exhibit low toxicity in model organisms and humans; however, long-term studies of toxicity in humans have yet to be conducted. This review will integrate molecular neuroscience with behavioral research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Aguiar
- Department of Neuroscience, Pitzer College, Claremont, California 91711, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Leonti M, Casu L. Traditional medicines and globalization: current and future perspectives in ethnopharmacology. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:92. [PMID: 23898296 PMCID: PMC3722488 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The ethnopharmacological approach toward the understanding and appraisal of traditional and herbal medicines is characterized by the inclusions of the social as well as the natural sciences. Anthropological field-observations describing the local use of nature-derived medicines are the basis for ethnopharmacological enquiries. The multidisciplinary scientific validation of indigenous drugs is of relevance to modern societies at large and helps to sustain local health care practices. Especially with respect to therapies related to aging related, chronic and infectious diseases traditional medicines offer promising alternatives to biomedicine. Bioassays applied in ethnopharmacology represent the molecular characteristics and complexities of the disease or symptoms for which an indigenous drug is used in “traditional” medicine to variable depth and extent. One-dimensional in vitro approaches rarely cope with the complexity of human diseases and ignore the concept of polypharmacological synergies. The recent focus on holistic approaches and systems biology in medicinal plant research represents the trend toward the description and the understanding of complex multi-parameter systems. Ethnopharmacopoeias are non-static cultural constructs shaped by belief and knowledge systems. Intensified globalization and economic liberalism currently accelerates the interchange between local and global pharmacopoeias via international trade, television, the World Wide Web and print media. The increased infiltration of newly generated biomedical knowledge and introduction of “foreign” medicines into local pharmacopoeias leads to syncretic developments and generates a feedback loop. While modern and post-modern cultures and knowledge systems adapt and transform the global impact, they become more relevant for ethnopharmacology. Moreover, what is traditional, alternative or complementary medicine depends on the adopted historic-cultural perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Leonti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari Cagliari, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Plant-based medicines for anxiety disorders, part 2: a review of clinical studies with supporting preclinical evidence. CNS Drugs 2013; 27:301-19. [PMID: 23653088 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-013-0059-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Research in the area of herbal psychopharmacology has revealed a variety of promising medicines that may provide benefit in the treatment of general anxiety and specific anxiety disorders. However, a comprehensive review of plant-based anxiolytics has been absent to date. Thus, our aim was to provide a comprehensive narrative review of plant-based medicines that have clinical and/or preclinical evidence of anxiolytic activity. We present the article in two parts. In part one, we reviewed herbal medicines for which only preclinical investigations for anxiolytic activity have been performed. In this current article (part two), we review herbal medicines for which there have been both preclinical and clinical investigations of anxiolytic activity. A search of MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Scopus and the Cochrane Library databases was conducted (up to 28 October 2012) for English language papers using the search terms 'anxiety' OR 'anxiety disorder' OR 'generalized anxiety disorder' OR 'social phobia' OR 'post-traumatic stress disorder' OR 'panic disorder' OR 'agoraphobia' OR 'obsessive compulsive disorder' in combination with the search terms 'Herb*' OR 'Medicinal Plants' OR 'Botanical Medicine' OR 'Chinese herb*', in addition to individual herbal medicines. This search of the literature revealed 1,525 papers, of which 53 plants were included in the review (having at least one study using the whole plant extract). Of these plants, 21 had human clinical trial evidence (reviewed here in part two), with the other 32 having solely preclinical evidence (reviewed in part one). Support for efficacy was found for chronic use (i.e. greater than one day) of the following herbs in treating a range of anxiety disorders in human clinical trials: Piper methysticum, Matricaria recutita, Ginkgo biloba, Scutellaria lateriflora, Silybum marianum, Passiflora incarnata, Withania somniferum, Galphimia glauca, Centella asiatica, Rhodiola rosea, Echinacea spp., Melissa officinalis and Echium amoenum. For several of the plants studied, conclusions need to be tempered due to methodological issues such as small sample sizes, brief intervention durations and non-replication. Current evidence does not support Hypericum perforatum or Valeriana spp. for any anxiety disorder. Acute anxiolytic activity was found for Centella asiatica, Salvia spp., Melissa officinalis, Passiflora incarnata and Citrus aurantium. Bacopa monnieri has shown anxiolytic effects in people with cognitive decline. The therapeutic application of psychotropic plant-based treatments for anxiety disorders is also discussed, specifically Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caarti (ayahuasca), Psilocybe spp. and cannabidiol-enriched (low tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC)) Cannabis spp.
Collapse
|
29
|
Chen GL, Miller GM. Tryptophan hydroxylase-2: an emerging therapeutic target for stress disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 85:1227-33. [PMID: 23435356 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Revised: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) has been long recognized to modulate the stress response, and dysfunction of 5-HT has been implicated in numerous stress disorders. Accordingly, the 5-HT system has been targeted for the treatment of stress disorders. Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) is the rate-limiting enzyme in 5-HT synthesis, and the recent identification of a second, neuron-specific TPH isoform (TPH2) opened up a new area of research. With a decade of extensive investigation, it is now recognized that: (1) TPH2 exhibits a highly flexible gene expression that is modulated by an increasing number of internal and external environmental factors including the biological clock, stressors, endogenous hormones, and antidepressant therapies; and (2) genetically determined TPH2 activity is linked to a growing body of stress-related neuronal correlates and behavioral traits. These findings reveal an active role of TPH2 in the stress response and provide new insights into the long recognized but not yet fully understood 5-HT-stress interaction. As a major modulator of 5-HT neurotransmission and the stress response, TPH2 is of both pathophysiological and pharmacological significance, and is emerging as a new therapeutic target for the treatment of stress disorders. Given that numerous antidepressant therapies influence TPH2 gene expression, TPH2 is already inadvertently targeted for the treatment of stress disorders. With increased understanding of the regulation of TPH2 activity we can now purposely utilize TPH2 as a target to develop new or optimize current therapies, which are expected to greatly improve the prevention and treatment of a wide variety of stress disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Lin Chen
- Harvard Medical School, New England Primate Research Center, Division of Neuroscience, One Pine Hill Drive, Southborough, MA 01772-9102, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Preethi J, Singh HK, Charles PD, Rajan KE. Participation of microRNA 124-CREB pathway: a parallel memory enhancing mechanism of standardised extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08). Neurochem Res 2012; 37:2167-77. [PMID: 22837048 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-012-0840-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 06/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Bacosides, the effective component of standardised leaf extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08) has been reported to have memory enhancing effect. Our previous reports suggested that BESEB CDRI-08 (BME) improves memory in postnatal rats by enhancing serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] metabolism, its transportation and subsequently activates 5-HT(3A) receptor during hippocampus-dependent learning. In this study, we examine whether the up-regulated 5-HT(3A) receptor activity by BME modulate microRNA 124-CREB pathway to enhance synaptic plasticity. Wistar rat pups received single dose of vehicle solution (0.5 % gum acacia + 0.9 % saline)/BME (80 mg/kg)/mCPBG (10 mg/kg)/BME + mCPBG during the postnatal days (PND) 15-29. On PND 30, individuals were trained at brightness discrimination task and 24 h later, they were tested on the task. The BME treated group exhibited significantly lower percentage of errors during retention than acquisition. In addition, pre-miR-124 expression in hippocampus was significantly down-regulated in the BME and mCPBG + BME treated groups combined with a significant increase in the plasticity related genes, cAMP response element-binding protein, its phosphorylation and postsynaptic density protein 95. Our results suggest that this may be one of the mechanisms of bacosides present in BME for the memory enhancement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayakumar Preethi
- Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, India
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Prisila Dulcy C, Singh HK, Preethi J, Emmanuvel Rajan K. Standardized extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08) attenuates contextual associative learning deficits in the aging rat's brain induced by D-galactose. J Neurosci Res 2012; 90:2053-64. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
32
|
Chen GL, Miller GM. Advances in tryptophan hydroxylase-2 gene expression regulation: new insights into serotonin-stress interaction and clinical implications. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2012; 159B:152-71. [PMID: 22241550 PMCID: PMC3587664 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) modulates the stress response by interacting with the hormonal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and neuronal sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) is the rate-limiting enzyme in 5-HT biosynthesis, and the recent identification of a second, neuron-specific TPH isoform (TPH2) opened up a new area of research. While TPH2 genetic variance has been linked to numerous behavioral traits and disorders, findings on TPH2 gene expression have not only reinforced, but also provided new insights into, the long-recognized but not yet fully understood 5-HT-stress interaction. In this review, we summarize advances in TPH2 expression regulation and its relevance to the stress response and clinical implications. Particularly, based on findings on rhesus monkey TPH2 genetics and other relevant literature, we propose that: (i) upon activation of adrenal cortisol secretion, the cortisol surge induces TPH2 expression and de novo 5-HT synthesis; (ii) the induced 5-HT in turn inhibits cortisol secretion by modulating the adrenal sensitivity to ACTH via the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN)-SNS-adrenal system, such that it contributes to the feedback inhibition of cortisol production; (iii) basal TPH2 expression or 5-HT synthesis, as well as early-life experience, influence basal cortisol primarily via the hormonal HPA axis; and (iv) 5'- and 3'-regulatory polymorphisms of TPH2 may differentially influence the stress response, presumably due to their differential roles in gene expression regulation. Our increasing knowledge of TPH2 expression regulation not only helps us better understand the 5-HT-stress interaction and the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, but also provides new strategies for the treatment of stress-associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Lin Chen
- Harvard Medical School, New England Primate Research Center, Division of Neuroscience, Southborough, MA 01772-9102, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sandhya T, Sowjanya J, Veeresh B. Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst ameliorates behavioral alterations and oxidative markers in sodium valproate induced autism in rats. Neurochem Res 2012; 37:1121-31. [PMID: 22322665 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-012-0717-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Revised: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Early prenatal or post natal exposure to environmental insults such as valproic acid (VPA), thalidomide and ethanol could induce behavioral alterations similar to autistic symptoms. Bacopa monniera, a renowned plant in ayurvedic medicine is useful in several neurological disorders. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of B. monniera on VPA induced autism. On 12.5 day of gestation the female pregnant rats were divided into control and VPA treated groups. They were administered saline/VPA (600 mg/kg, i.p.) respectively and allowed to raise their own litters. Group I-male pups of saline treated mothers. On postnatal day (PND) 21 VPA induced autistic male pups were divided into two groups (n = 6); Group II-received saline and Group III-received B. monniera (300 mg/kg/p.o.) from PND 21-35. Behavioral tests (nociception, locomotor activity, exploratory activity, anxiety and social behavior) were performed in both adolescence (PND 30-40) and adulthood (PND 90-110) period. At the end of behavioral testing animals were sacrificed, brain was isolated for biochemical estimations (serotonin, glutathione, catalase and nitric oxide) and histopathological examination. Induction of autism significantly affected normal behavior, increased oxidative stress and serotonin level, altered histoarchitecture of cerebellum (decreased number of purkinje cells, neuronal degeneration and chromatolysis) when compared with normal control group. Treatment with B. monniera significantly (p < 0.05) improved behavioral alterations, decreased oxidative stress markers and restored histoarchitecture of cerebellum. In conclusion, the present study suggests that B. monniera ameliorates the autistic symptoms possibly due to its anti-anxiety, antioxidant and neuro-protective activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Sandhya
- Department of Pharmacology, G. Pulla Reddy College of Pharmacy, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500027 Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Attenuation of 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide induced hippocampus-dependent memory impairment by a standardised extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08). Neurochem Res 2011; 36:2136-44. [PMID: 21735137 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-011-0538-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Bacopa monniera is a well-known medhya-rasayana (memory enhancing and rejuvenating) plant in Indian traditional medical system of Ayurveda. The effect of a standardized extract of Bacopa monniera (BESEB CDRI-08) on serotonergic receptors and its influence on other neurotransmitters during hippocampal-dependent learning was evaluated in the present study. Wistar rat pups received a single dose of BESEB CDRI-08 during postnatal days 15-29 showed higher latency during hippocampal-dependent learning accompanied with enhanced 5HT(3A) receptor expression, serotonin and acetylcholine levels in hippocampus. Furthermore, 5HT(3A) receptor agonist 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide (mCPBG) impaired learning in the passive avoidance task followed by reduction of 5HT(3A) receptor expression, 5HT and ACh levels. Administration of BESEB CDRI-08 along with mCPBG attenuated mCPBG induced behavioral, molecular and neurochemical alterations. Our results suggest that BESEB CDRI-08 possibly acts on serotonergic system, which in turn influences the cholinergic system through 5-HT(3) receptor to improve the hippocampal-dependent task.
Collapse
|
35
|
An Association Study of the Genetic Polymorphisms in 13 Neural Plasticity-Related Genes with Semantic and Episodic Memories. J Mol Neurosci 2011; 46:352-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-011-9592-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2011] [Accepted: 06/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|