Anti-inflammatory activities and mechanisms of action of the petroleum ether fraction of Rosa multiflora Thunb. hips

Research on the pharmacognostic characteristics, physicochemical properties and in vitro antioxidant potency of Rosa laxa Retz. flos

Rosa laxa Retz. is an unexplored Rosaceae plant in Xinjiang, China, and its flower is traditionally used in Kazak to treat the common cold, fever, and epileptic seizures and lessen the effects of aging. In the present study, the pharmacognostic profiles, physicochemical properties, phytochemical characteristics, and in vitro antioxidant potency of Rosa laxa Retz. flos (RLF) were presented. In the pharmacognostic evaluation of RLF, organoleptic characteristics, internal structures, and powder information were observed, and physicochemical parameters, including moisture content, ash, pH value, swelling degree, and extractives were examined. The quantitative analysis of the chemical composition of four different polar extracts of RLF showed that the aqueous part had the highest total triterpene acid, flavonoid, and polyphenol content (4.50 ± 0.04 mg/g, 50.56 ± 0.03 mg/g, and 60.20 ± 0.09 mg/g, respectively). A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-diode array detector (DAD) method was established and the contents of gallic acid, ellagic acid, astragalin, and tiliroside in RLF were determined simultaneously. In the set concentration range, the linear relationship among the four components was good (r > 0.999), the average recoveries were 97.36%-100.54%. The contents of gallic acid, ellagic acid, astragalin, and tiliroside in RLF samples were (9.46 ± 2.31) mg/g, (10.60 ±0.75) mg/g, (1.13 ± 2.50) mg/g, and (1.11 ± 2.65) mg/g, respectively. The types of its secondary metabolites were determined by fluorescence, color reaction by chemical solvent method, and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The functional groups of its secondary metabolites were determined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Results showed that RLF contains a variety of secondary metabolic products, including flavonoids, phenolic acid, glycoside, and organic acid. TLC identification showed it contains ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, tiliroside, astragalin, isoquercitrin, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, gallic acid, and ellagic acid. The in vitro antioxidant activity of different polar parts of RLF was investigated by DPPH, ABTS, and reduction performance experiments. The aqueous extract had the strongest antioxidant capacity, consistent with the high content of triterpene acids, flavonoids, and polyphenolic compounds. These findings will provide critical information for the study of quality standards and medicinal value of RLF and its extracts, justify its usage in traditional medicinal systems, and encourage the use of this plant in disease prevention and treatment. Its phytochemical composition and pharmacological studies need to be explored in future. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Optical microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to observe the morphology, and microstructure of Rosa laxa Retz. flos (RLF). The physicochemical properties, fluorescence and phytochemical composition of four different polar extracts of RLF were analyzed by UV-Vis and FTIR. Determination of total triterpenic acid, total flavonoids, and total polyphenols in four different polar extracts of RLF by UV spectrophotometry. A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-diode array detector (DAD) method was established and the contents of gallic acid, ellagic acid, astragalin, and tiliroside in RLF were determined simultaneously. TLC confirmed that RLF contains ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, tiliroside, astragalin, isoquercitrin, kaempferol 3-rutinoside, gallic acid, and ellagic acid. The in vitro antioxidant activity of RLF was studied by DPPH, ABTS, and reducing ability experiments.

Antiarthritic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabis sativa Essential Oil in an Animal Model

Arthritis and inflammatory conditions require effective therapies, but conventional drugs have side effects. This study explored Cannabis sativa L. essential oil (CSEO) as a safer alternative. A chemical characterization of EO conducted via GC/MS showed the presence of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (67.63%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (25.91%), and oxygenated monoterpenes (0.99%). The study used three established inflammation induction tests: xylene-induced ear swelling, carrageenan-induced paw inflammation, and inflammation in the paw induced by Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA). Xylene triggered acute inflammation in the ear, while carrageenan-induced acute inflammatory responses through edema and immune-cell recruitment in the paw. CFA-induced arthritis simulated chronic inflammatory conditions. The obtained results demonstrated that treatment with CSEO significantly reduced ear weight in the xylene-induced ear-swelling test, indicating potential inhibition of neutrophil accumulation. In the carrageenan-induced paw inflammation test, CSEO reduced paw volume, suggesting interference with edema formation and leukocyte migration. In the CFA-induced paw inflammation test, CSEO decreased contralateral paw volume, restored body weight, and reduced C-reactive protein levels. Conclusion: this study provides compelling evidence supporting the antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory effects of CSEO. The findings indicate the therapeutic value of EO in the management of arthritis and inflammatory diseases while highlighting the need for further in-depth research to study the molecular mechanisms and validate their safety and efficacy for clinical applications. Preliminary data from this study suggests encouraging prospects for advancing the treatment and prevention of inflammation.

The deleterious effect of xylene-induced ear edema in rats: Protective role of dexketoprofen trometamol transdermal invasomes via inhibiting the oxidative stress/NF-κB/COX-2 pathway

Pain and inflammation could have a negative impact on a patient's quality of life and performance, causing them to sleep less. Dexketoprofen trometamol (DKT) is a water-soluble, nonselective NSAIDs. Because DKT is quickly eliminated in the urine after oral delivery, its efficacy is limited and must be taken repeatedly throughout the day. The main ambition of this work is to develop and characterize the potential of invasomes to enhance the transdermal transport of DKT to achieve efficient anti-inflammatory and pain management. The optimum formulation (C1) showed the least %RE (53.29 ± 2.68 %), the highest %EE (86.51 ± 1.05 %), and spherical nanosized vesicles (211.9 ± 0.57 nm) with (PDI) of 0.353 ± 0.01 and (ZP) of -19.15 ± 2.45 mV. DKT flux and deposition in stratum corneum, epidermal, and dermal skin layers were significantly augmented by 2.6 and 3.51 folds, respectively, from the optimum invasomal gel formulation (C1-G) compared to DKT conventional gel (DKT-G). The anti-inflammatory activity of C1-G was evaluated using a model of xylene-induced ear edema in rats. Xylene exposure upregulated the ear expression of COX-2 level and MPO activity. Xylene also significantly increased the ear NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-Iβ, and MDA levels. Furthermore, xylene induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by a significant decrease in ear GSH and serum TAC levels. These impacts were drastically improved by applying C1-G compared to rats that received DKT-G and plain invasomal gel formulation (plain C1-G). The histopathological findings imparted substantiation to the biochemical and molecular investigations. Thereby, C1-G could be a promising transdermal drug delivery system to improve the anti-inflammatory and pain management of DKT.

Stauntonia hexaphylla leaf extract (YRA-1909) suppresses inflammation by modulating Akt/NF-κB signaling in lipopolysaccharide-activated peritoneal macrophages and rodent models of inflammation

Background

Inflammation is emerging as a key contributor to many vascular diseases and furthermore plays a major role in autoimmune diseases, arthritis, allergic reactions, and cancer. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is a component constituting the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is commonly used for an inflammatory stimuli to mimic inflammatory diseases. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor and regulates gene expression particularly related to the inflammatory process. Stauntonia hexaphylla (Lardizabalaceae) is widely used as a traditional herbal medicine for rheumatism and osteoporosis and as an analgesic, sedative, and diuretic in Korea, Japan, and China.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of YRA-1909, the leaf aqueous extract of Stauntonia hexaphylla using LPS-activated rat peritoneal macrophages and rodent inflammation models.

Results

YRA-1909 inhibited the LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) and proinflammatory cytokine production in rat peritoneal macrophages without causing cytotoxicity and reduced inducible NO synthase and prostaglandin E₂ levels without affecting the cyclooxygenase-2 expression. YRA-1909 also prevented the LPS-stimulated Akt and NF-κB phosphorylation and reduced the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema, xylene-induced ear edema, acetic acid-induced vascular permeation, and cotton pellet-induced granuloma formation in a dose-dependent manner in mice and rats.

Conclusions

S. hexaphylla leaf extract YRA-1909 had anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo that involves modulation of Akt/NF-κB signaling. Thus, YRA-1909 is safe and effective for the treatment of inflammation.

Role of natural products in alleviation of rheumatoid arthritis-A review

Rheumatoid arthritis (RHA) is one of the most prevalent complex, chronic, inflammatory diseases, manifested by elevated oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Prolonged administration of NSAIDs, steroids, and DMARDs, used in the treatment of RHA, is associated with deleterious side effects. This necessitates the urge of new and safe approaches for RHA management, based on the complementary and alternative system of medicine. Documented evidences have suggested that supplementation with nutritional, dietary, and herbal components; can play a crucial role as an adjuvant, in the alleviation of the RHA symptoms, through their influence on the pathological inflammatory processes. Dietary phenolic compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids, and alkaloids with their ability to modulate prooxidant and pro-inflammatory pathways, have been effective in delaying the arthritic disease progression. Moreover, in scientific explorations, herbs containing phenolic compounds, alkaloids, carotenoids flavonoids, spices such as ginger, turmeric, Ayurvedic formulations, different diets such as Mediterranean diet, vegan diet, beverages, and oils such as sesame oil, rice bran oil, vitamins, and probiotics are proven to modulate the action of inflammatory molecules, involved in RHA pathology. Subsequently, the purpose of this review article is to summarize various in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies in RHA, which have documented remarkable insights into the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and immunomodulatory, bone erosion preventing properties of dietary, nutritional, and herbal components with the focus on their molecular level mechanisms involved in RHA. Even though major findings were derived from in vitro studies, several in vivo and clinical studies have established the use of diet, herbal, and nutritional management in RHA treatment. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Thickening of the synovial membrane, bone erosion, and cartilage destruction is known to trigger rheumatoid arthritis causing inflammation and pain in bone joints. Continuous intake of NSAIDs, steroids, and DMARD therapy are associated with detrimental side effects. These side effects can be overcome by the use of dietary, nutritional, and herbal interventions based on the complementary and alternative therapy. This concept portrays the food components and other natural components having the potential to promote health, improve general well-being, and reduce the risk of RHA.

Synthesis, characterization and anti-inflammatory properties of karanjin (Pongamia pinnata seed) and its derivatives

Karanja (Pongamia pinnata) is a medicinal tree used in the Indian traditional ayurvedic system for treating several ailments. The seeds contain a unique furano-flavonoid karanjin, which has shown to possess many medicinal properties. Its usage at the clinical level is affected due to poor solubility and absorption. In the present investigation, molecular modifications of karanjin were attempted and evaluated their effect on anti-inflammatory activity. Firstly, Karanja ketone was obtained from karanjin by hydrolysis, and it was converted into karanja ketone oxime. The oxime undergoes Beckmann rearrangement and cyclized to yield furano benzoxazole (karanja oxazole). The new derivatives were purified with >95% purity (HPLC) and spectrally characterized (HR-MS, FTIR, and NMR). Among the test compounds, karanja ketone oxime exhibited higher antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 360 µg/ml (DPPH). Soy lipoxygenase-1 (LOX-1) inhibitory activity of oxime was higher (IC50 = 65.4 µM) than other compounds. Fluorescence studies showed that oxime had higher quenching capacity with a Qmax of 76.3% and a binding constant of 0.9 × 105 M-1 for soy LOX-1. In-silico interaction studies showed that karanja ketone oxime had the least binding energy of -5.76 kcal/mol with LOX-1 by forming two hydrogen bonds with hydrophobic amino acids Leu 390 and Gly 392. The compounds were evaluated for their acute anti-inflammatory activity by the paw and ear edema in the rat model. Karanjin inhibits paw edema and ear edema by 34.13% and 51.13%, respectively, whereas the derivatives inhibited by 45-57 % and 70-76.8%. This study reports a rational approach to synthesize karanjin derivatives with considerable anti-inflammatory properties, both in-vitro and in-vivo.

Biological Evaluation of Azetidine-2-One Derivatives of Ferulic Acid as Promising Anti-Inflammatory Agents

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vivo biological potential of new azetidine-2-one derivatives of ferulic acid (6a–f). First, the in vivo acute toxicity of azetidine-2-one derivatives of ferulic acid on Swiss white mice was investigated and, based on the obtained results, it can be stated that the studied derivatives belong to compounds with moderate toxicity. The in vivo anti-inflammatory potential of these derivatives was determined in a model of acute inflammation induced by carrageenan in rats and in a chronic inflammation model induced in rats using the granuloma test. In the acute inflammation model, all the studied compounds had a maximum anti-inflammatory effect 24 h after administration, which suggests that these compounds may be classified, from a pharmacokinetic point of view, in the category of long-acting compounds. The most active compound in the series was found to be compound 6b. In the case of the chronic inflammation model, it was observed that the studied compounds (6a–f) reduced the formation of granulation tissue compared to the control group, having an intense effect of inhibiting the proliferative component. The most important inhibitory effect of inhibiting the proliferative component was recorded for compound 6b. Additionally, the investigation of liver function was performed by determining the serum levels of liver enzymes aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and bilirubin (total and direct). The results showed that, in the series of azetidin-2-one derivatives, the liver enzymes concentration values were close to those recorded for the reference anti-inflammatories (diclofenac sodium and indomethacin) and slightly higher compared to the values for the healthy control group. At the end of the experiment, the animals were euthanized and fragments of liver, lung, and kidney tissue were taken from all groups in the study. These were processed for histopathological examination, and we noticed no major changes in the groups treated with the azetidine 2-one derivatives of ferulic acid compared to the healthy groups.

Rosa multiflora Thunb Flower Extract Attenuates Ultraviolet-Induced Photoaging in Skin Cells and Hairless Mice

Ethanol extract (RET) of Rosa multiflora Thunb flowers and its subfractions in ethylacetate (REA) or n-butanol subfractions (RBT) were reported to have potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we investigated if those Rosa multiflora flower (RMF) extracts prevent ultraviolet (UV)-induced biochemical damages leading to photoaging. In keratinocyte or dermal fibroblasts, RET, REA, and RBT treatments with UV irradiation significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 levels through suppression of nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinases. In the animal experiment, mice were orally supplemented with RET (RET group) or REA and RBT mixture (RM group) for 10 weeks, concomitantly with UV exposure. Tumor necrosis factor alpha production and MMP-13 expression were reduced in the mouse skin of RET and RM groups compared with those in the UV control (UVC) group. UV-induced IL-6 production and epidermal thickening were reduced in RM group compared with those in UVC group. Eight phenolic compounds, including quercitrin (quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside), were identified in RMF extracts. Quercitrin treatment to dermal fibroblasts significantly attenuated an increase of MMP-1 expression and a decrease of type I procollagen expression caused by UV. Collectively, RMF extracts showed protective effects from UV-induced photoaging in the skin through suppression of ROS generation, proinflammatory cytokine production, and MMP expression. Quercitrin is suggested to be one of the effective compounds.

Ursane-type triterpenoids from the roots of Rosa multiflora with their anti-inflammatory activity

Nine ursane-type triterpenoids including three new ones 2α, 19α-dihydroxyurs-3-O-acetyltormentic acid (1), 1α, 2α, 3α, 20β-tetrahydroxyurs -13(18)-en-28-oic acid (2), and 2α, 3α, 20β, 24-tetrahydroxyurs-13(18)-en-28-oic acid (3) were isolated from the roots of Rosa multiflora. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods, including NMR, MS, and IR spectroscopic analyses data. All the isolates were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and the results showed that compounds 1-9 displayed moderate inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values ranging from 24.7 to 86.2 μM compared with the postitive control Amino guanidine (IC₅₀ 4.3 μM).[Formula: see text].

Morphological and antiradical characteristics of Rugosa rose (Rosa rugosa Thunb.) fruits canned in different kind of honeys and in beverages prepared from honey

The aim of the work was to determined the basic morphological and morphometric traits of rugosa rose (Rosa rugosa Thunb.) and antiradical activity of fruit pulp canned in different kind of honeys and in beverages prepared from honey. In experiments there were used 4 genotypes of roses originated from arboretum Mlyňany (Slovakia). The evaluation of 11 morphometric traits of fruit showed that the average weight of the fresh fruit without pedicle reached up 5.14 - 5.46 g, the weight of pedicle was 0.05 - 0.08 g, weight of pulp and seeds 4.80 - 5.13 g, weight of calyx 0.25 - 0.31 g, length and width of fruit (16.10 - 18.13 mm, 21.38 - 22.46 mm), the number of seeds in fruit 48.45 - 71.05, thickness of pulp 2.63 - 2.97 mm. Separated fruit pulp was canned at 40 °C and 80 °C and premixed in robinia honey and honeydew honey. Beverages were prepared by mixture of fruit pulp in honey (15 g) with cold water (150 mL). Antiradical activity was determined by DPPH method in fruit pulp (in methyl alcohol and water extracts), in honeys (black locust honey and honeydew honey) and beverages. There had been confirmed statistically significant differences in morphological traits, especially in colour and shape of fruit. Antiradical activity of fresh fruit pulp in methyl alcohol extract was determined 94.59%, in water extract 89.71%. Antiradical activity of black locust honey was 7.63%, honeydew honey 6.54%. Antiradical activity was determined also adding honeydew honey and black locust honey to fresh pulp of fruit prepared at 80 °C (33.55% and 77.58%). In beverages prepared from fresh pulp, honey and water it was investigated the higher values of antiradical activity in samples with addition of honeydew honey (81.81 - 83.86%) in comparison with robinia honey (75.57 - 79.96%).

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside Isolated from Indian Medicinal Plant Melothria heterophylla

Background: Melothria heterophylla (family: Cucurbitaceae), commonly known as kudari, is used in the Indian traditional medicine to treat various inflammation-associated diseases, such as asthma, arthritis and pain. However, the anti-inflammatory active components of this plant have not been identified yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of a compound, quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside, isolated from M. heterophylla. Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using carrageenan- and dextran-induced rat paw edema as well as cotton pellet-induced granuloma in rats, whereas the analgesic activity was analyzed using acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate and tail flick response in mice. The test compound was orally administered at a dose of 5, 10 or 15 mg/kg. The cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1)- and COX-2-inhibitory capacity of the test compound was studied by enzyme immunosorbent assay. Results: Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoglucoside at 15 mg/kg exhibited a maximum inhibition of carrageenan-induced inflammation (50.3%, p < 0.05), dextran (52.8%, p < 0.05), and cotton pellets (41.4%, p < 0.05) compared to control animals. At the same dose, it showed a 73.1% inhibition (p < 0.05) of the pain threshold in acetic acid-induced writhing model. It also exhibited a considerable analgesic activity by prolonging the reaction time of the animals based on hot plate as well as tail flick response. The test compound was found to inhibit COX-1 (IC50 2.76 µg/mL) and more efficiently, COX-2 (IC50 1.99 µg/mL). Conclusions: Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside possessed substantial analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities possibly due to inhibition of prostaglandin production, supporting the ethnomedicinal application of M. heterophylla to treat various inflammatory disorders.

Anti-pain and anti-inflammation like effects of Neptune krill oil and fish oil against carrageenan induced inflammation in mice models: Current statues and pilot study

Although inflammation is a reactive to injurious stimuli and considered as beneficial process in body, but it causes some discomforts, such as pain. Murine dietary contains appreciable amounts of fatty acids and antioxidants which encourages researchers to focus on their potential therapeutic effects. This study is aimed to examine the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Neptune krill oil (NKO) and fish oil (FO) in rodent model which are two well-known sources of rich content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), mostly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). NKO and FO were used at the same dose of 500 mg and also balanced at similar doses of EPA: 12 in NKO vs. 12 in FO wt%, DHA: 7 NKO vs. 8 FO wt%. Application of NKO and FO in acetic acid-induced writhing effect, hot plate, and formalin induced test, indicated the nociceptive activity of the two tested drugs in comparison with normal saline. Also, the anti-inflammatory effect of these supplements was confirmed by carrageenan test. Analysis of cytokines levels in the blood samples of the mice after induction inflammation by carrageenan indicated decreased levels of those proteins compared to that in the normal groups. Both tested drugs, effectively could reduce severe inflammation and pain in rodents in comparison with the references drugs (depends on the tests); however, NKO was found to be more effective.

Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Rosa rugosa Depending on Degree of Ripeness

Maturity stage affects the bioactive compounds as well as the antioxidant capacity in the fruit. This study was designed to identify and quantify carotenoids, as well as to evaluate vitamin E, vitamin C, antioxidant capacity and total phenolic compounds of Rosa rugosa hips at different degrees of ripeness. HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis showed different types of carotenoids at different stages of maturity of R. rugosa hips with significant differences (p ˂ 0.05), where the maximum concentration was observed at late harvesting. In the hips investigated, only α-tocopherol was detected, the maximum concentration of both vitamin E and vitamin C was obtained in the orange hips with significant difference (p ˂ 0.05). On the other hand, the highest hydrophilic and lipophilic TEAC (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity) values, as well as total phenolic contents, were determined in the mature hips (red colour) with significant difference (p < 0.0001) and (p < 0.001) respectively, whereas ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) showed lower activity in the mature hips with significant difference (p ˂ 0.05). Late harvesting is recommended if a high content of carotenoids is desired, while harvesting should be carried out earlier if a higher vitamin E and vitamin C content is desired, which in turn affects the antioxidants capacity.

A Mixture of Extracts of Kochia scoparia and Rosa multiflora with PPAR α/γ Dual Agonistic Effects Prevents Photoaging in Hairless Mice

Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) α/γ is known to inhibit the increases in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by ultraviolet light (UV). Extracts of natural herbs, such as Kochia scoparia and Rosa multiflora, have a PPAR α/γ dual agonistic effect. Therefore, we investigated whether and how they have an antiaging effect on photoaging skin. Eighteen-week-old hairless mice were irradiated with UVA 14 J/cm² and UVB 40 mJ/cm² three times a week for 8 weeks. A mixture of extracts of Kochia scoparia and Rosa multiflora (KR) was topically applied on the dorsal skin of photoaging mice twice a day for 8 weeks. Tesaglitazar, a known PPAR α/γ agonist, and vehicle (propylene glycol:ethanol = 7:3, v/v) were applied as positive and negative controls, respectively. Dermal effects (including dermal thickness, collagen density, dermal expression of procollagen 1 and collagenase 13) and epidermal effects (including skin barrier function, epidermal proliferation, epidermal differentiation, and epidermal cytokines) were measured and compared. In photoaging murine skin, KR resulted in a significant recovery of dermal thickness as well as dermal fibroblasts, although it did not change dermal collagen density. KR increased the expression of dermal transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. The dermal effects of KR were explained by an increase in procollagen 1 expression, induced by TGF-β, and a decrease in MMP-13 expression. KR did not affect basal transepidermal water loss (TEWL) or stratum corneum (SC) integrity, but did decrease SC hydration. It also did not affect epidermal proliferation or epidermal differentiation. KR decreased the expression of epidermal interleukin (IL)-1α. Collectively, KR showed possible utility as a therapeutic agent for photoaging skin, with few epidermal side effects such as epidermal hyperplasia or poor differentiation.

Rosae Multiflorae Fructus Hot Water Extract Inhibits a Murine Allergic Asthma Via the Suppression of Th2 Cytokine Production and Histamine Release from Mast Cells

Mast cell-mediated anaphylactic reactions are involved in many allergic diseases, including asthma and allergic rhinitis. In Korea, where it has been used as a traditional medicine, Rosae Multiflorae fructus (RMF) is known to have potent antioxidative, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activities and to have no obvious acute toxicity. However, its specific effect on asthma is still unknown. In this study, we evaluated whether or not RMF hot water extracts (RMFW) could inhibit ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma and evaluated compound 48/80-induced mast cell activation to elucidate the mechanisms of asthma inhibition by RMFW. Oral administration of RMFW decreased the number of eosinophils and lymphocytes in the lungs of mice challenged by OVA and downregulated histological changes such as eosinophil infiltration, mucus accumulation, goblet cell hyperplasia, and collagen fiber deposits. In addition, RMFW significantly reduced T helper 2 cytokines, TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-6 levels in the BAL fluid of mice challenged by OVA. Moreover, RMFW suppressed compound 48/80-induced rat peritoneal mast cell degranulation and inhibited histamine release from mast cells induced by compound 48/80 in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that RMFW may act as an antiallergic agent by inhibitingTh2 cytokine production from Th2 cells and histamine release from mast cells, and could be used as a therapy for patients with Th2-mediated or mast cell-mediated allergic diseases.

A herbal formula comprising Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, attenuates collagen-induced arthritis and inhibits TLR4 signalling in rats

RL, a traditional remedy for Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), comprises two edible herbs, Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos. We have reported that RL could inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators in immune cells. Here we investigated the effects and the mechanism of action of RL in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats. RL significantly increased food intake and weight gain of CIA rats without any observable adverse effect; ameliorated joint erythema and swelling; inhibited immune cell infiltration, bone erosion and osteophyte formation in joints; reduced joint protein expression levels of TLR4, phospho-TAK1, phospho-NF-κB p65, phospho-c-Jun and phospho-IRF3; lowered levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-17A and MCP-1 in sera and TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-17A in joints); elevated serum IL-10 level; reinvigorated activities of antioxidant SOD, CAT and GSH-Px in the liver and serum; reduced Th17 cell proportions in splenocytes; inhibited splenocyte proliferation and activation; and lowered serum IgG level. In conclusion, RL at nontoxic doses inhibited TLR4 signaling and potently improved clinical conditions of CIA rats. These findings provide further pharmacological justifications for the traditional use of RL in RA management.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of a methanol extract from Vitellaria paradoxa stem bark

BACKGROUND

Vitellaria paradoxa is a traditional medicinal plant of Cameroon. Several studies on this plant have focused on the cosmetic profile of its fruits. The present study focuses on the anti-inflammatory potency of stem barks extract of this plant.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the effect of methanolic extract of V. paradoxa (VPME) stem barks on inflammatory response in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory effects of VPME were evaluated in acute and chronic (28 days) inflammation induced in Wistar albino rats. The effects on hyperalgesia and locomotors activity were also quantified. The relative weight of lymphoid organs was obtained as well as some hematological parameters.

RESULTS

In the carrageenan-induced inflammation, VPME (75 mg/kg) exhibited a significant (66.67%) inhibition after 1 h. On the complete Freund's adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis, VPME showed a significant protective effect with 8.12% inflammation against 25.00% for the control group after 2 days of the treatment. The extract (75 and 150 mg/kg) significantly reduced the score of arthritis with a maximum obtained on day 19(th) of the experimentation. There was a significant increase in the reaction time of rats on the hot plate as well as the exploratory activities of the animals in the open field. This extract significantly prevented weight, hemoglobin and red blood cells losses, and spleen hypertrophy. A protective action against skin destruction and cartilage erosion was evident. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the extract revealed the presence of catechins.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that V. paradoxa may contribute to the reduction of the inflammatory response.

A herbal formula comprising Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators and the IRAK-1/TAK1 and TBK1/IRF3 pathways in RAW 264.7 and THP-1 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As documented in the Chinese Materia Medica Grand Dictionary (), a herbal formula (RL) consisting of Rosae Multiflorae Fructus (multiflora rose hips) and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (Japanese honeysuckle flowers) has traditionally been used in treating inflammatory disorders. RL was previously reported to inhibit the expression of various inflammatory mediators regulated by NF-κB and MAPKs that are components of the TLR4 signalling pathways.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to provide further justification for clinical application of RL in treating inflammatory disorders by further delineating the involvement of the TLR4 signalling cascades in the effects of RL on inflammatory mediators.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RL consisting of Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (in 5:3 ratio) was extracted using absolute ethanol. We investigated the effect of RL on the production of cytokines and chemokines that are regulated by three key transcription factors of the TLR4 signalling pathways AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells using the multiplex biometric immunoassay. Phosphorylation of AP-1, NF-κB, IRF3, IκB-α, IKKα/β, Akt, TAK1, TBK1, IRAK-1 and IRAK-4 were examined in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and THP-1 cells using Western blotting. Nuclear localizations of AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3 were also examined using Western blotting.

RESULTS

RL reduced the secretion of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines regulated by transcription factors AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3. Phosphorylation and nuclear protein levels of these transcription factors were decreased by RL treatment. Moreover, RL inhibited the activation/phosphorylation of IκB-α, IKKα/β, TAK1, TBK1 and IRAK-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Suppression of the IRAK-1/TAK1 and TBK1/IRF3 signalling pathways was associated with the effect of RL on inflammatory mediators in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 and THP-1 cells. This provides further pharmacological basis for the clinical application of RL in the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (Sanyeqing) root tuber extracts induces apoptosis in human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells

AIM OF THE STUDY

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (Sanyeqing) is traditionally used as a folk medicine for the treatment of cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible mechanisms by which petroleum ether fraction (PEF) of Sanyeqing has anti-tumor activity on HeLa cells.

METHODS

The chemical components of PEF were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The cytotoxicity of PEF on HeLa cells was measured by MTT assay. Apoptosis was evaluated by phosphatidylserine translocation, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) changes and the activation of caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9. The levels in T-SOD, CAT, GSH-PX and MDA were measured.

RESULTS

PEF of Sanyeqing inhibited the growth and induced apoptosis of HeLa cells in dose- and time-dependent manner. PEF triggered intrinsic apoptotic pathway indicated by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. In addition, PEF activated extrinsic apoptotic pathway indicated by the activation of caspase-8. Furthermore, PEF decreased T-SOD, CAT, GSH-PX activities and increased MDA level. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of fatty acids and phytosterol in PEF.

CONCLUSIONS

PEF of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et. Gilg (Sanyeqing) exhibits cytotoxic effects, triggers both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, and augments oxidative stress in cervical carcinoma HeLa cells. Sanyeqing has strong potential to be developed as an agent for the treatment of cervical cancer.

Petroleum ether extractive of the hips of Rosa multiflora ameliorates collagen-induced arthritis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The hip of Rosa multiflora Thunb. (HRM) has been traditionally used as a dietary supplement and a herbal remedy for the treatment of various diseases, including inflammation, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic pain, in China. The current study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the petroleum ether extractive of HRM (PEE) on type II collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis (CIA) in male Wistar rats. In addition, the anti-inflammatory mechanism(s) of PEE on type II CIA was explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was induced by intradermal injection of bovine type II collagen on Day 1 and Day 8. Starting from Day 13, normal rats were treated with vehicle (serving as the control group); the CIA rats were treated with vehicle (CIA group), dexamethasone (0.25mg/kg bw per day, p.o.) (a positive control), lei-gong-teng (LGT: 10mg/kg bw per day, p.o.) (a clinically used Chinese patent medicine in RA therapy) or PEE (12, 36 or 120mg/kg bw per day, p.o.) for 28 days.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

PEE (120mg/kg bw per day) efficiently attenuated the severity of arthritis in the CIA rats by reducing the mean arthritis severity scores and the fore/hind paw swelling as well as reduced histological changes by decreasing the cartilage surface erosion and cartilage proteoglan depletion. PEE׳s therapeutic effect in RA may involve the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, in serum and/or the elevation of the activities of hepatic anti-oxidative enzymes including SOD, CAT and GSH-Px. However, the detailed anti-inflammatory mechanism, the main effective components and the interaction between different ingredients in PEE are still not clear and require more studies.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of the methanol extract of Gynura segetum leaf

Gynura segetum, family Compositae, is a cultivated species and can be found growing in the tropical regions of Indonesia and Malaysia. The plant is known for its use for the treatment of cancer, inflammation, diabetes, hypertension and skin afflictions. In the current study, in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of the methanol extract G. segetum leaf and its antioxidant effect in vitro have been investigated for the first time. The in vitro antioxidant activities of the methanol extract were measured using common methods including total phenolic content; total flavonoid content; scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and β-carotene bleaching assays. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activities were tested using the cotton pellet implanted animal model. The measurement of pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1) levels in the blood samples of the rats was carried out by using ELISA kits. The inhibitory activity on cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme of methanol extract was also evaluated. The methanol extract exhibited good antioxidant activity which is associated with their total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Methanol extract strongly inhibited the granuloma tissue formation in rats and the anti-inflammatory potential was mediated through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and COX-2 enzyme activities. Taken together, the present study suggests that G. segetum's leaf is a natural source of antioxidants and has potential therapeutic benefits against chronic inflammation.

Topical analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Oxybaphus nyctagineus: phytochemical characterization of active fractions

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Oxybaphus nyctagineus (Michx.) Sweet has traditionally been used by several Native American tribes predominantly as a topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts prepared from the aerial parts of Oxybaphus nyctagineus and to characterize the major chemical constituents of the bioactive extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Crude polar and apolar extracts (PCE and ACE) of the herb of Oxybaphus nyctagineus were prepared and tested in the models of the CFA-induced hyperalgesia in rat knee and carrageenan-induced paw edema in rat. To identify the active compounds, subfractions were prepared by column chromatography and subjected in vitro assays, such as antioxidant assays (DPPH, peroxynitrite (ONOO-) scavenging), and the LPS-induced IL-1β release test in human monocytes. Preparative HPLC was employed for the isolation of active substances, while phytochemical analysis was performed by mean of LC-MS/MS and NMR.

RESULTS

The topically administered PCE and ACE of Oxybaphus nyctagineus demonstrated a significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect in the inflammation animal models. The subfraction A4 of ACE and the subfraction P5 of PCE considerably inhibited the LPS-induced IL-1β release in human monocytes, while the strongest activity was localized in the subfraction P5 in the antioxidant assays. The HPLC-MS/MS and NMR analysis revealed that 6-methoxyflavonol diglycosides, namely patuletin-3-O-robinobioside (1), 6-methoxykaempferol-3-O-robinobioside (2), spinacetin-3-O-robinobioside (3), and hydroxy-polyenoic fatty acids, namely corchorifatty acid B (4), 9-hydroxy-10E,12Z,15Z-octadecatrienoic acid (9-HOT acid) (5), and 9-hydroxy-10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid (9-HOD acid) (6) were present in PCE, and in ACE as major compounds.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study established a pharmacological evidence for the traditional use of Oxybaphus nyctagineus as an anti-inflammatory agent used topically, and provided data on its phytochemical composition for the first time.

Anti-inflammatory effect of O-methylated flavonol 2-(3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-3,5-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-chromen-4-one obtained from Cassia sophera Linn in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cassia sophera Linn (Family Caesalpiniaceae), popularly known as kasundi, is used both in the Indian traditional system and folk medicine to treat several inflammatory pathologies such as asthma, arthritis and pains. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the scientific basis of anti-inflammatory activity of Cassia sophera ethanol extracts and of an isolated constituent of Cassia sophera.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activity of Cassia sophera was studied using the carrageenan, dextran induced rat paw edema, and cotton pellet induced granuloma in rats. The ethanol extract was administered at the concentrations of 200 and 400mg/kg body weight whereas rhamnetin (RN) was administered at a dose of 10 and 15 mg/kg, b.w. Indomethacin was used as standard drug.

RESULTS

The HPLC analysis revealed that good amounts of rhamnetin (0.18%) was present in Cassia sophera.The ethanol extracts at 400mg/kg, showed maximum inhibition of inflammation induced by carrageenan (44%), dextran (40%), cotton pellets (37.47%). On the other hand rhamnetin (15 mg/kg) exhibited maximum anti-inflammatory effect, that is 79 and 33% at the end of 3h with carrageenin, and dextran-induced rat paw edema, respectively. In a chronic test rhamnetin (15 mg/kg) showed 43.32% reduction in granuloma weight.

CONCLUSION

The marked inhibitory effect on paw edema and granuloma showed that Cassia sophera possess remarkable anti-inflammatory activity which may be due to rhamnetin at least in part, supporting the folkloric usage of the plant to treat various inflammatory diseases.

Naturally derived anti-inflammatory compounds from Chinese medicinal plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Though inflammatory response is beneficial to body damage repair, if it is out of control, it can produce adverse effects on the body. Although purely western anti-inflammatory drugs, orthodox medicines, can control inflammation occurrence and development, it is not enough. The clinical efficacy of anti-inflammation therapies is unsatisfactory, thus the search for new anti-inflammation continues. Chinese Material Medica (CMM) remains a promising source of new therapeutic agents. CMM and herbal formulae from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), unorthodox medicines, play an improtant anti-inflammatory role in multi-targets, multi-levels, and multi-ways in treating inflammation diseases in a long history in China, based on their multi-active ingredient characteristics. Due to these reasons, recently, CMM has been commercialized as an anti-inflammation agent which has become increasingly popular in the world health drug markets. Major research contributions in ethnopharmacology have generated vast amount of data associated with CMM in anti-inflammtion aspect. Therefore, a systematic introduction of CMM anti-inflammatory research progress is of great importance and necessity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This paper strives to describe the progress of CMM in the treatment of inflammatory diseases from different aspects, and provide the essential theoretical support and scientific evidence for the further development and utilization of CMM resources as a potential anti-inflammation drug through a variety of databases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Literature survey was performed via electronic search (SciFinder®, Pubmed®, Google Scholar and Web of Science) on papers and patents and by systematic research in ethnopharmacological literature at various university libraries.

RESULTS

This review mainly introduced the current research on the anti-inflammatory active ingredient, anti-inflammatory effects of CMM, their mechanism, anti-inflammatory drug development of CMM, and toxicological information.

CONCLUSION

CMM is used clinically to treat inflammation symptoms in TCM, and its effect is mediated by multiple targets through multiple active ingredients. Although scholars around the world have made studies on the anti-inflammatory studies of CMM from different pathways and aspects and have made substantial progress, further studies are warranted to delineate the inflammation actions in more cogency models, establish the toxicological profiles and quality standards, assess the potentials of CMM in clinical applications, and make more convenient preparations easy to administrate for patients. Development of the clinically anti-inflammatory drugs are also warranted.