Neuropharmacological study of Dracocephalum moldavica L. (Lamiaceae) in mice: sedative effect and chemical analysis of an aqueous extract

Selection of Reference Genes for Expression Normalization by RT-qPCR in Dracocephalum moldavica L

Dracocephalum moldavica is widely used as an ornamental, medicine, and perfume in industry. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is widely and accurately utilized for gene expression evaluations. Selecting optimal reference genes is essential for normalizing RT-qPCR results. However, the identification of suitable reference genes in D. moldavica has not been documented. A total of 12 reference genes in D. moldavica were identified by PEG6000 (15%) treatment under hypertonia conditions in different tissues (roots, stem, leaves, flower, seeds and sepal) and during three stages of flower development, then used to validate the expression stability. There were four algorithms (delta Ct, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper) used to analyze the stability. Finally, the RefFinder program was employed to evaluate the candidate reference genes' stability. The results showed that ACTIN, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and EF1α (elongation factor-1α) were stable reference genes under the PEG6000 treatment. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was the most stable gene across different flower development stages. ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) was the most stable gene in different tissues and total samples. This study provides reliable gene expression studies for future research in D. moldavica.

Neuroendocrine and cellular mechanisms in stress resilience: From hormonal influence in the CNS to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress

Recent advancements in neuroendocrinology challenge the long-held belief that hormonal effects are confined to perivascular tissues and do not extend to the central nervous system (CNS). This paradigm shift, propelled by groundbreaking research, reveals that synthetic hormones, notably in anti-inflammatory medications, significantly influence steroid psychosis, behavioural, and cognitive impairments, as well as neuropeptide functions. A seminal development in this field occurred in 1968 with McEven's proposal that rodent brains are responsive to glucocorticoids, fundamentally altering the understanding of how anxiety impacts CNS functionality and leading to the identification of glucocorticosteroids and mineralocorticoids as distinct corticotropic receptors. This paper focuses on the intricate roles of the neuroendocrine, immunological, and CNS in fostering stress resilience, underscored by recent animal model studies. These studies highlight active, compensatory, and passive strategies for resilience, supporting the concept that anxiety and depression are systemic disorders involving dysregulation across both peripheral and central systems. Resilience is conceptualized as a multifaceted process that enhances psychological adaptability to stress through adaptive mechanisms within the immunological system, brain, hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis, and ANS Axis. Furthermore, the paper explores oxidative stress, particularly its origin from the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria. The mitochondria's role extends beyond ATP production, encompassing lipid, heme, purine, and steroidogenesis synthesis. ROS-induced damage to biomolecules can lead to significant mitochondrial dysfunction and cell apoptosis, emphasizing the critical nature of mitochondrial health in overall cellular function and stress resilience. This comprehensive synthesis of neuroendocrinological and cellular biological research offers new insights into the systemic complexity of stress-related disorders and the imperative for multidisciplinary approaches in their study and treatment.

Pharmacological disadvantages in the spasmolytic effects by using the mixture known as "three toronjiles" in folk medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

In Mexico, Agastache mexicana subsp. mexicana (PT) and subsp. xolocotziana (WT), and Dracocephalum moldavica (BT), are used together as the "three toronjiles" to treat gastrointestinal spasms.

AIM OF STUDY

To evaluate if the spasmolytic activity of these three medicinal species is better in combination or in an individual manner.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Spasmolytic effect of PT, WT and BT alone or combinate were evaluated in rings of the guinea-pig ileum contracted with potassium chloride (KCl), electrical field stimulation (EFS), or acetylcholine (ACh). Chemical analysis by thin layer and ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography of the aqueous extracts of each species were done for their comparison, and their acute toxicity were determined in mice.

RESULTS

PT and WT diminished in a dose-dependent manner the contractions induced by KCl, EFS, and ACh. Whereas BT did not altered contractions in any experimental protocol. A combination of the PT (EC50) and WT (EC50) diminished the contractions induced by KCl or EFS. Interestingly, the addition of BT extract (10 μg/ml) to the combination (PT EC30 + WT EC30) blocked the inhibitory effect produced on the contracted tissue in the presence of KCl, EFS, or ACh. Moreover, addition of BT extract (100 μg/ml) to the same combination blocked the inhibitory effect on the pre-contracted tissue only in the presence of EFS. None of the aqueous extracts produced toxicity in its individual administration in mice. Chemical analysis demonstrated similarities between PT and WT, but differences with BT.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study confirmed that either combined or by themselves aqueous extracts of PT and WT produced a spasmolytic action on guinea pig ileum, suggesting that this combination of medicinal plants could relieve gastrointestinal diseases in human, but when BT aqueous extract is added to those obtained with PT and WT, the spasmolytic activity diminished or even was blocked. Our results give evidence that mixture of several plants might produce disadvantages in the medicinal properties of their individual activity.

Dracocephalum moldavica L.: An updated comprehensive review of its botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and application aspects

Dracocephalum moldavica, known as Xiang-qing-lan (in Chinese), is a traditional folk medicine, which was commonly used by Mongolian and Xinjiang Uyghurs area. Dracocephalum moldavica has the effects of purging liver fire, clearing stomach heat, hemostasis. It is used for treating insufficient heart and blood, weakened brain function, weak feeling and spirit disease etc. This review aimed to summarize the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and application of Dracocephalum moldavica, which expected to provide theoretical support for future utilization and highlight the further investigation of this vital plant. In addition to the essential oil, approximately 154 compounds have been isolated and identified from aerial parts of the Dracocephalum moldavica, including flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, phenylpropanoids, phenols, glycosides, polysaccharide and other compounds. Extensive pharmacological activities of the extracts or compounds of Dracocephalum moldavica in vivo and in vitro were confirmed including cardiovascular protection, antioxidative, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-complementary and chronic mountain sickness. Moreover, Dracocephalum moldavica is used in a wide range of applications in food, biological pesticides and cosmetics. In the future, Dracocephalum moldavica needs further study, such as paying more attention to quality control, toxicity, pharmacological mechanism and pharmacokinetics.

Dracocephalum jacutense Peschkova from Yakutia: Extraction and Mass Spectrometric Characterization of 128 Chemical Compounds

Dracocephalum jacutense Peschkova is a rare and endangered species of the genus Dracocephalum of the Lamiaceae family. The species was first described in 1997 and listed in the Red Data Book of Yakutia. Significant differences in the multicomponent composition of extracts from D. jacutense collected in the natural environment and successfully introduced in the Botanical Garden of Yakutsk were identified by a team of authors earlier in a large study. In this work, we studied the chemical composition of the leaves, stem, and inflorescences of D. jacutense using the tandem mass spectrometry method. Only three cenopopulations of D. jacutense were found by us in the territory of the early habitat-in the vicinity of the village of Sangar, Kobyaysky district of Yakutia. The aboveground phytomass of the plant was collected, processed and dried as separate parts of the plant: inflorescences, stem and leaves. Firstly, a total of 128 compounds, 70% of which are polyphenols, were tentatively identified in extracts of D. jacutense. These polyphenol compounds were classified as 32 flavones, 12 flavonols, 6 flavan-3-ols, 7 flavanones, 17 phenolic acids, 2 lignans, 1 dihydrochalcone, 4 coumarins, and 8 anthocyanidins. Other chemical groups were presented as carotenoids, omega-3-fatty acids, omega-5-fatty acids, amino acids, purines, alkaloids, and sterols. The inflorescences are the richest in polyphenols (73 polyphenolic compounds were identified), while 33 and 22 polyphenols were found in the leaves and stems, respectively. A high level of identity for polyphenolic compounds in different parts of the plant is noted for flavanones (80%), followed by flavonols (25%), phenolic acids (15%), and flavones (13%). Furthermore, 78 compounds were identified for the first time in representatives of the genus Dracocephalum, including 50 polyphenolic compounds and 28 compounds of other chemical groups. The obtained results testify to the unique composition of polyphenolic compounds in different parts of D. jacutense.

Achillea moschata Wulfen: From Ethnobotany to Phytochemistry, Morphology, and Biological Activity

A multidisciplinary investigation on Achillea moschata Wulfen (Asteraceae) is outlined herein. This work, part of the European Interreg Italy-Switzerland B-ICE project, originated from an ethnobotanical survey performed in Chiesa in Valmalenco (Sondrio, Lombardy, Northern Italy) in 2019-2021 which highlighted this species' relevance of use in folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal diseases. In addition, this contribution included analyses of the: (a) phytochemical profile of the aqueous and methanolic extracts of the dried flower heads using LC-MS/MS; (b) morpho-anatomy and histochemistry of the vegetative and reproductive organs through Light, Fluorescence, and Scanning Electron Microscopy; (c) biological activity of the aqueous extract concerning the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential through cell-based in vitro models. A total of 31 compounds (5 phenolic acids, 13 flavonols, and 13 flavones) were detected, 28 of which included in both extracts. Covering and secreting trichomes were observed: the biseriate 10-celled glandular trichomes prevailing on the inflorescences represented the main sites of synthesis of the polyphenols and flavonoids detected in the extracts, along with volatile terpenoids. Finally, significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the aqueous extract were documented, even at very low concentrations; for the first time, the in vitro tests allowed us to formulate hypotheses about the mechanism of action. This work brings an element of novelty due to the faithful reproduction of the traditional aqueous preparation and the combination of phytochemical and micromorphological research approaches.

Systems Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Investigate Pharmacological Mechanisms of Total Flavonoids in Dracocephalum moldavica on Chronic Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome of cardiac insufficiency caused by abnormalities in cardiac structure and function that arise for various reasons, and it is the final stage of most cardiovascular diseases’ progression. Total flavonoid extract from Dracocephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) has many pharmacological and biological roles, such as cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-atherogenic, antihypertensive, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, etc. However, its effect on HF and its molecular mechanism are still unclear. In this study, we used systems pharmacology and an animal model of HF to investigate the cardioprotective effect of TFDM and its molecular mechanism. Eleven compounds in TFDM were obtained from the literature, and 114 overlapping genes related to TFDM and HF were collected from several databases. A PPI network and C-T network were established, and GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were performed. The top targets from the PPI network and C-T network were validated using molecular docking. The pharmacological activity was investigated in an HFpEF (heart failure with preserved ejection fraction) mouse model. This study shows that TFDM has a protective effect on HFpEF, and its protective mechanism may be related to the regulation of proinflammatory cytokines, apoptosis-related genes, fibrosis-related genes, etc. Collectively, this study offers new insights for researchers to understand the protective effect and mechanism of TFDM against HFpEF using a network pharmacology method and a murine model of HFpEF, which suggest that TFDM is a promising therapy for HFpEF in the clinic.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activity of Dracocephalum moldavica L. Essential Oil and Hydrolate

Steam distillation was used for the isolation of Dracocephalum moldavica L. (Moldavian dragonhead) essential oil (DMEO). This aromatic herbaceous plant is widespread across the Northern Hemisphere regions and has been utilized in health-improving studies and applications. In addition to the DMEO, the hydrolate (DMH), a byproduct of the distillation process, was also collected. The DMEO and DMH were analyzed and compared in terms of their chemical composition, as well as their in vitro biological activities. The main component in DMEO was geranyl acetate, while geranial was dominant in DMH. The DMEO demonstrated better antioxidant and antimicrobial activities compared with the DMH against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes, which represent sources of food-borne illness at the global level. The DMEO and DMH show promise as antioxidant and antimicrobial additives to various products.

Dracocephalum palmatum S. and Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. Originating from Yakutia: A High-Resolution Mass Spectrometric Approach for the Comprehensive Characterization of Phenolic Compounds

Dracocephalum palmatum S. and Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. contain a large number of target analytes, which are biologically active compounds. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in combination with an ion trap (tandem mass spectrometry) was used to identify target analytes in extracts of D. palmatum S. and D. ruyschiana L. originating from Yakutia. The results of initial studies revealed the presence of 114 compounds, of which 92 were identified for the first time in the genus Dracocephalum. New identified metabolites belonged to 17 classes, including 16 phenolic acids and their conjugates, 18 flavones, 5 flavonols, 2 flavan-3-ols, 1 flavanone, 2 stilbenes, 10 anthocyanins, 1 condensed tannin, 2 lignans, 6 carotenoids, 3 oxylipins, 2 amino acids, 3 sceletium alkaloids, 3 carboxylic acids, 8 fatty acids, 1 sterol, and 3 terpenes, along with 6 miscellaneous compounds. It was shown that extracts of D. palmatum are richer in the spectrum of polyphenolic compounds compared with extracts of D. ruyschiana, according to a study of the presence of these compounds in extracts, based on the results of mass spectrometric studies.

Research of Dracocephalum palmatum S. and Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. originating from Yakutia and identification of metabolites by tandem mass spectrometry

Dracocephalum palmatum Stephan and Dracocephalum ruyschiana L. contains a large number of target analytes, which are biologically active compounds. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in combination with a BRUKER DALTONIKS ion trap (tandem mass spectrometry) was used to identify target analytes in extracts of D. palmatum Stephan and D. ruyschiana L., originating from Yakutia. The results of initial studies revealed the presence of 61 compounds, of which 53 were identified for the first time in genus Dracocephalum. These are flavones: Apigenin 8-C-pentoside-6-C-hexoside, Apigenin 7-sulfate; Chrysin 6-C-glucoside, Chrysin glucuronide; flavanols: Kaempferol, Dihydrokaempferol, Astragalin; flavan-3-ol (epi)Catechin, phenolic acids: Methylgallic acid; Hydroxy methoxy dimethylbenzoic acid; Ellagic acid; Caffeoylshikimic acid; Prolithospermic acid; 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid; salvianolic acid G; stilbenes pinosylvin and resveratrol; anthocyanins Petunidin, Pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside; Peonidin-3-O-glucoside; Cyanidin 3-(acetyl)hexose; perillic acid; lignans: Hinokinin, Dimethyl-secoisolariciresinol, Podophyllotoxin, carotenoids: Apocarotenal, 5,8-epoxy-alpha-carotene; etc.

Powerful Stress Relieving Medicinal Plants for Anger, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress During Global Pandemic

Consideration and improvement for anxiety and depression are important during a global pandemic. Appropriate healthcare can be obtained by paying more attention to traditional medicinal sciences. The adverse effects of stress with various symptoms can be managed by introducing plants that boost mental health. The most relevant psychological reactions in the general population related to the global pandemic are pervasive anxiety, frustration and boredom, specific and uncontrolled fear, disabling loneliness, significant lifestyle changes, and psychiatric conditions. Ginseng, chamomile, passionflower, herbal tea, lavender, saffron, kava, rose, cardamom, Chinese date, and some chief formula like yokukansan, Dan-zhi-xiao-yao-san, so-ochim-tang-gamiband, and saikokaryukotsuboreito are notable herbal treatments for mental health problems. The most common medicinal plants that have been used in Iran for the cure of stress and anxiety are Viper's-buglosses, Dracocephalum, valerian, chamomile, common hop, hawthorns, and lavender. Medicinal plants and herbs can be used for the treatment and alleviation of the negative effects of stress, anger, and depression during the global pandemic.

Behavioral and Fluorescent-Based Immunohistochemistry Protocols for Examining Antidepressant-Like Effects of Melatonin in Mice

Antidepressants are characterized by their ability to decrease despair behavior assessed in mice as a decrease in immobility time in the forced swimming test (FST) (antidepressant-like behavior). This behavioral parameter is associated with increased neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus of the rodents summitted to this test. Herein, we describe an optimized protocol used to characterize the melatonin antidepressant-like effect associated with its pro-neurogenic activity after an acute and a triple administration to mice measured by the FST and fluorescence-based immunohistochemistry in brain tissue, respectively.

Identification of miRNA and Their Regulatory Effects Induced by Total Flavonoids From Dracocephalum moldavica in the Treatment of Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a general term used to describe difficulties in memory, reasoning, judgment, and planning caused by a reduced blood flow to the brain and consequent brain damage, in which microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved. Dracocephalum moldavica L. (D. moldavica) is traditionally used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases as well as VaD, but the biomolecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effect are obscure. In the present study, the molecular mechanisms involved in the treatment of VaD by the total flavonoids from Dracocephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) were explored by the identification of miRNA profiling using bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification. A total of 2,562 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and 3,522 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the GSE120584 and GSE122063 datasets, in which the gene functional enrichment and protein-protein interaction network of 93 core targets, originated from the intersection of the top DEM target genes and DEGs, were established for VaD gene profiling. One hundred and eighty-five targets interacting with 42 flavonoids in the TFDM were included in a compound-target network, subsequently found that they overlapped with potential targets for VaD. These 43 targets could be considered in the treatment of VaD by TFDM, and included CaMKII, MAPK, MAPT, PI3K, and KDR, closely associated with the vascular protective effect of TFDM, as well as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The subsequent analysis of the compound-target gene-miRNA network indicated that eight miRNAs that mediated 43 targets had a close interaction with TFDM, suggesting that the neuroprotective effects were principally due to kaempferol, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, which were mostly associated with the miR-3184-3p/ESR1, miR-6762-3p/CDK1, miR-6777-3p/ESRRA, and other related axes. Furthermore, the in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model demonstrated that the dysregulation of miR-3184-3p and miR-6875-5p found by qRT-PCR was consistent with the changes in the bioinformatics analysis. TFDM and its active compounds involving tilianin, luteolin, and apigenin showed significant effects on the upregulation of miR-3184-3p and downregulation of miR-6875-5p in OGD-injured cells, in line with the improved cell viability. In conclusion, our findings revealed the underlying miRNA-target gene network and potential targets of TFDM in the treatment of VaD.

Ethnomedicine and neuropsychopharmacology in Mesoamerica

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The burden of disease caused by mental and neurological disorders is increasing globally, to a disproportionate degree in Latin America. In contrast to the many psychoactive plants with a use history in Mesoamerican cultures, the translation to the wider population of knowledge around numerous botanicals used contemporarily by indigenous Mesoamerican societies to treat psychological and neurological disorders did not receive the same attention.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used the previously published Mesoamerican Medicinal Plant Database to extract species and associated botanical drugs used as treatments for illnesses associated with the nervous system by Mesoamerican cultures in Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. With the critical use of published pharmacological literature, the cross-culturally most salient genera are systematically reviewed.

RESULTS

From 2188 plant taxa contained in the database 1324 are used as treatments for illnesses associated with the nervous system. The ethnomedical data was critically confronted with the available biomedical literature for the 58 cross-culturally most salient genera. For a considerable proportion of the frequently used taxa, preclinical data are available, mostly validating ethnomedicinal uses.

CONCLUSION

This quantitative approach facilitates the prioritization of taxa for future pre-clinical, clinical and treatment outcome studies and gives patients, practitioners, and legislators a fundamental framework of evidence, on which to base decisions regarding phytomedicines.

The effect of exogenously applied plant growth regulators and zinc on some physiological characteristics and essential oil constituents of Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) under water stress

Cost-effective exogenous application of some antioxidant, viz. salicylic acid (SA) and ascorbic acid (AA), and essential micronutrient elements like Zn might alleviate the harmful impacts of drought stress. Here, we evaluated the interaction of foliar-sprayed SA (1 mM), AA (10 mM), and Zn (3 g L^-1) and irrigation regime (normal irrigation, moderate water stress, and severe water stress) by assaying an array of agronomic, physiological, analytical and biochemical parameters of Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.). Accordingly, the SA and AA treatments reduced the harmful effects of moderate and severe drought stress. Well-watered plants applied with Zn had the highest biomass yield (4642.5 kg ha^-1). Severe water stress decreased plant biomass, essential oil (EO) content, EO yield, relative water content, and chlorophyll a content by 37.6%, 23.3%, 47.5%, 35.3%, and 53%, respectively, relative to normal irrigation. Plants treated with Zn under moderate drought stress had the highest EO content. Moderate and severe water stress increased enzymatic antioxidant (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase) activities and total soluble sugars and proline contents. In terms of EO composition, SA-treated plants under moderate water stress contained the most geraniol (22.8%) and geranial (26.3%), while Zn-treated plants under severe water stress contained the most geranyl acetate (48.2%). This study demonstrated that foliar application of Zn and SA significantly improves EO productivity and quality in Moldavian balm under moderate water stress. The relevant findings were supported by heatmap clustering, revealing that irrigation regime had main effect on the essential oil compounds and biochemical and physiological parameters.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-021-01084-1.

Low Doses of Ketamine and Melatonin in Combination Produce Additive Antidepressant-like Effects in Mice

Major depressive disorder is a disabling disease with the number of affected individuals increasing each year. Current antidepressant treatments take between three to six weeks to be effective with forty percent of patients being resistant to treatment, making it necessary to search for new antidepressant treatments. Ketamine, a phencyclidine hydrochloride derivative, given intravenously, induces a rapid antidepressant effect in humans. In mice, it causes increased neurogenesis and antidepressant-like effects. However, it also produces psychomimetic effects in humans and in rodents increases the locomotor activity. In contrast, melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland and synthesized in extrapineal sites, increases new neuron formation and causes antidepressant-like effects in adult rodents with no collateral effects. Here, we assessed the effects of a non-effective dose of ketamine in combination with melatonin (KET/MEL), both on neurogenesis as well as on the antidepressant-like effect in mice. Our results showed that KET/MEL combination increased neurogenesis and produced antidepressant-like effects without altering locomotor activity after both single and triple administration protocols. Our data strongly suggest that KET/MEL combination could be used to simultaneously promote neurogenesis, reverting neuronal atrophy and inducing antidepressant-like effects.

UPLC-PDA-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and GC-MS analysis of Iranian Dracocephalum moldavica L

Dracocephalum moldavica L. is a significant component in the Iranian food basket. This study aimed to investigate the bioactive compounds and biological activities of different extracts obtained from D. moldavica aerial parts. From the aerial parts, a crude methanolic (MeOH) extract and its four sub-fractions, that is, petroleum ether (Pet), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol (n-BuOH), and aqueous (water) extracts were obtained. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the extracts were determined. Moreover, the phytochemical profiles of the essential oil (EO) and of those extracts with the highest antioxidant activity measured by GC/MS and UPLC-PDA-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. Results showed that the highest concentrations of phenols and flavonoids as well as the most potent antioxidant potential according to the DPPH method were determined in the EtOAc and MeOH extracts with IC50 values of 22.0 and 34.4 µg.ml-1, respectively. Quantitative analysis of these extracts was subsequently performed by UPLC-PDA-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. Both extracts contained mainly rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and 2-hydroxycinnamic acid, which may be responsible for their high antioxidant activity. Moreover, none of the extracts showed cytotoxic effects against MCF7, SW48, and a normal cell line of mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (NIH/3T3) in the tested concentrations (up to 400 μg.ml-1). Additionally, GC-MS analysis showed that oxygenated monoterpenes (55.4%) were the main constituents of the EO of D. moldavica.

Antidepressant-like effects of a new dihydro isoquinoline and its chemical precursors in mice: involvement of serotonin and dopaminergic systems

This study was aimed to synthesize novel 2-(2-bromophenyl)-N-phenethylacetamides and benzylisoquinoline (BIQ) derivatives to be evaluated as antidepressant-like agents in mice. The phenethylacetamides derivatives were synthesized by coupling aromatic amides to the backbone of 2-bromophenylacetyl chloride. The synthesis of BIQ was achieved by the reaction between synthesized phenethylacetamides and 2-chloropyridine. The structures of compounds were established mainly by 1D and 2D NMR spectra. Those compounds obtained with moderate to good yields were evaluated as antidepressant-like agents in the forced swim test and the open field paradigms in mice. The possible mechanism of those active derivatives was explored by antagonist experiments in combination with p-chloro-phenylalanine methyl ester, reserpine, sulpiride, and dopamine D1 antagonist SCH23390. Also, MAO A and B inhibition assays were performed. Docking studies between the human dopamine D3 receptor and the higher active compound were performed. The results showed that the (2-bromophenyl)-(3,4-dihydroisoquinoline-1-yl)methanone (4a) presented the most potent antidepressant-like effects without modifying the ambulatory activity of experimental mice. Antagonist experiments showed that 4a acted on the serotonergic and dopaminergic receptors. Docking studies indicated a strong affinity between the human dopamine D3 receptor and 4a. Our results showed that BIQ 4a has an antidepressant-like effect that is possibly mediated by an interaction with the presynaptic serotonin receptors and dopaminergic, D1, D2, and D3, receptors. This study highlights the pharmacological potential of halogenated BIQs in the treatment of some depressive disorders.

Dracomolphin A-E, new lignans from Dracocephalum moldavica

Eight new lignans, dracomolphin A-E (1-8), together with eight known lignans (9-16) were isolated from the aerial part of Dracocephalum moldavica. The structures of the isolated compounds were established based on NMR and HRESIMS data. Dracomolphin A (1-4) was elucidated as a lignan possessed a 5-membered ketal ring formed between C-8' and C-3, C-4. The two stereogenic centers rendered dracomolphin A as a mixture of two diastereomeric pairs of enantiomers (1-4). All of the four isomers were separated successfully by using chiral HPLC and their stereochemical features were determined by CD spectra. Bioactivity screening revealed that compounds 1-4, 6, 7, 12, 15 and 16 were potential Nrf2 transcriptional activators. Dracomolphin E (8) reduced cell viability of lung cancer NCI-H292 cells associated with apoptosis.

Traditional herbal medicines to overcome stress, anxiety and improve mental health in outbreaks of human coronaviruses

Mental health condition is including depression and anxiety, and they may impact wellbeing, personal relationships and productivity of both genders. Herbal medicines have been used to treatment of anxiety and depression symptoms for centuries. SARS, MERS and COVID-19 are related to coronavirus types. SARS (sever acute respiratory syndrome, China, 2002), MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome, Saudi Arabia, 2012), and SARS-CoV-2 (2019-2020) are the main coronavirus outbreaks. Both anxiety and depression are more serious to be considered and improved for all general public during fight with these diseases. In this mini-review article, we have mentioned the key role some of the most important plants and herbs for treatment of stress and anxiety and improve mental health against SARS and SARS-CoV-2 on the basis of traditional Asian medicine, especially traditional Chinese and Persian medicine.

Acacetin, a flavone with diverse therapeutic potential in cancer, inflammation, infections and other metabolic disorders

BACKGROUND

Acacetin is a di-hydroxy and mono-methoxy flavone present in various plants, including black locust, Damiana, Silver birch. Literature information revealed that acacetin exhibits an array of pharmacological potential including chemopreventive and cytotoxic properties in cancer cell lines, prevents ischemia/reperfusion/myocardial infarction-induced cardiac injury, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 1-methyl-4-phenyl pyridinium ion (MPP+) and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine hydrochloride (MPTP)-induced neuroinflammation, LPS and sepsis-induced lung injury, rheumatoid and collagen-induced arthritis, inhibit the microbial growth, obesity, viral-mediated infections as well as hepatic protection.

PURPOSE

This review highlights the therapeutic potential of acacetin, with updated and comprehensive information on the biological sources, chemistry, and pharmacological properties along with the possible mechanism of action, safety aspects, and future research opportunities.

STUDY DESIGN

The information was retrieved from various search engines, including Pubmed, SciFinder, Science direct, Inxight:drugs, Google scholar, and Meta cyc.

RESULT

The first section of this review focuses on the detailed biological source of acacetin, chromatographic techniques used for isolation, chemical characteristics, the method for the synthesis of acacetin, and the available natural and synthetic derivatives. Subsequently, the pharmacological activities, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-obesity, have been discussed. The pharmacokinetics data and toxicity profile of acacetin are also discussed.

CONCLUSION

Acacetin is a potent molecule reported for its strong anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity, however further scientific evidence is essential to validate its potency in disease models associated with inflammation and cancer. There is limited information available for toxicity profiling of acacetin; therefore, further studies would aid in establishing this natural flavone as a potent candidate for research studies at clinical setup.

Dracocephalum moldavica attenuates scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment through activation of hippocampal ERK-CREB signaling in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dracocephalum moldavica (Moldavian balm) has been traditionally used for the treatment of intellectual disabilities, migraines and cardiovascular problems in East Asia. Recent scientific studies have demonstrated the usefulness of this plant to treat neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the ethanolic extract of D. moldavica leaves (EEDM) on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in mice and the underlying mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The behavioral effects of EEDM were examined using the step-through passive avoidance and Morris water maze tasks. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, we tested whether EEDM affects acetylcholinesterase activity and the expression of memory-related signaling molecules including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus.

RESULTS

EEDM (25, 50 or 100 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated the scopolamine-induced step-through latency reduction in the passive avoidance task in mice. In the Morris water maze task, EEDM (50 mg/kg) significantly attenuated scopolamine-induced memory impairment. Furthermore, the administration of EEDM increased the phosphorylation levels of ERK and CREB in the hippocampus but did not alter acetylcholinesterase activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that EEDM significantly attenuates scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice and may be a promising therapeutic agent for improving memory impairment.

Members of the family <i>Lamiaceae</i> Lindl. as sources of medicinal plant raw materials to obtain neurotropic drugs

The aim of this work is to review and analyze the data published in the modern scientific literature obtained in pharmacological, pharmacognostic and pharmacotechnological studies of various types of raw materials obtained from members of the family Lamiaceae L., which were sources of biologically active substances, pharmaceutical substances, total extracts and the drugs – with a neurotropic activity.

Materials and methods. For the review, we used the information of scientific literature from open and accessible sources of the last twenty years, located in the scientific and technical libraries of institutions, as well as in electronic databases: Elibrary, PubMed, Scopus, Cyberleninka, GoogleAcademy, J-Stage. The search inquiries were: the species of the family Lamiaceae (Russian and Latin), the samples of medicinal plant materials based on them as well as the names of the drugs and biologically active substances obtained from these raw materials.

Results. When working with the sources of scientific information, the main attention was paid to pharmacologic tests performed during the studies on laboratory animals and proving the presence of neurotropic activity in the studied objects – essential oils and extracts from plant raw materials: aqueous, aqueous alcoholic, and methanol ones. It has been established that the potential of the therapeutic and preventive application of pharmaceutical substances and drugs based on the medicinal plant materials obtained from 30 genera members of the Lamiaceae family, remains unrealized despite the close attention of various researchers.

Conclusion. This review comprised 71 species from 30 genera. Despite the significant level of the previous study presented in the analysis of this publication, an enormous potential of this family’s species remains unexplored. In the future, they can be of both – pharmacognostic and practical interest, in particular, in creation of new medicinal preparations of the neurotropic action based on them.

Phytochemical composition profile and space-time accumulation of secondary metabolites for Dracocephalum moldavica Linn. via UPLC-Q/TOF-MS and HPLC-DAD method

The aerial parts of Dracocephalum moldavica L. are extensively used in traditional ethnic medicines in China as a remedy for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular damage. However, the chemical composition and the accumulation of main secondary metabolites of D. moldavica in different natural environments remain unclear. This study aimed to conduct a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the main secondary metabolites to explore the quality variation of D. moldavica in markets. The evaluation of space-time accumulation of main secondary metabolites in D. moldavica was carried out during different growth periods and in different geographical locations. A total of 35 ingredients were detected and 24 identified, including 21 flavonoids, two phenolic acids and one coumarin by UPLC-QTOF-MS method. Furthermore, a simple and convenient HPLC method was successfully developed for the simultaneous determination of lutelin-7-O-glucuronide and tilianin and rosmarinic acid in D. moldavica. The results of space-time accumulation analysis showed the distinct variation of secondary metabolites of D. moldavica with the growth period and geographical location. Finally, the current study provided a meaningful and useful approach for comprehensively evaluating the quality of D. moldavica.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Role in Reducing β-Amyloid, Apoptosis, Autophagy, Neuroinflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive age-related neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory loss and cognitive impairment. The major characteristics of AD are amyloid β plaques, apoptosis, autophagy dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These are mostly used as the significant indicators for selecting the effects of potential drugs. It is imperative to explain AD pathogenesis and realize productive treatments. Although the currently used chemical drugs for clinical applications of AD are effective in managing the symptoms, they are inadequate to achieve anticipated preventive or therapeutic outcomes. There are new strategies for treating AD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has accumulated thousands of years of experience in treating dementia. Nowadays, numerous modern pharmacological studies have verified the efficacy of many bioactive ingredients isolated from TCM for AD treatment. In this review, representative TCM for the treatment of AD are discussed, and among these herbal medicines, the Lamiaceae family accounts for the highest proportion. It is concluded that monomers and extracts from TCM have potential therapeutic effect for AD treatment.

Atheroprotective Mechanisms of Tilianin by Inhibiting Inflammation Through Down-Regulating NF-κB Pathway and Foam Cells Formation

Tilianin, a representative flavonoid ingredient of Dracocephalum moldavica L., has been used to treat several diseases for centuries, including atherosclerosis (AS). However, pharmacological mechanisms underlying its biological functions remain elusive. In the present study, we investigated the anti-AS mechanisms of tilianin through establishing in vitro models using three types of cells that contributed to AS progression, including macrophage, vascular smooth muscle cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which were proved to be involve in LPS/TNF-α/oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced inflammation and ox-LDL induced foam cell formation. Our results indicate that tilianin significantly suppressed LPS induced inflammatory responses on macrophage and remarkably inhibited TNF-α induced VSMCs proliferation and migration. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory effect of tilianin on macrophages and VSMCs was proved to be mainly by downregulating TNF-α/NF-κB pathway. Moreover, our results demonstrate that tilianin significantly ameliorated ox-LDL induced macrophages oriented foam cells formation through repressing mRNA expression of SR-A1 and inducting the expression of genes related to cholesterol efflux including SRB-1 and ABCA1. However, tilianin had no effect on ox-LDL induced HUVECs injury.

Pretreatment with Total Flavonoid Extract from Dracocephalum Moldavica L. Attenuates Ischemia Reperfusion-induced Apoptosis

We previously demonstrated the cardio-protection mediated by the total flavonoid extracted from Dracocephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) following myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI). The present study assessed the presence and mechanism of TFDM-related cardio-protection on MIRI-induced apoptosis in vivo. Male Sprague-Dawley rats experienced 45-min ischemia with 12 h of reperfusion. Rats pretreated with TFDM (3, 10 or 30 mg/kg/day) were compared with Sham (no MIRI and no TFDM), MIRI (no TFDM), and Positive (trapidil tablets, 13.5 mg/kg/day) groups. In MIRI-treated rats, high dose-TFDM (H-TFDM) pre-treatment with apparently reduced release of LDH, CK-MB and MDA, enhanced the concentration of SOD in plasma, and greatly reduced the infarct size, apoptotic index and mitochondrial injury. H-TFDM pretreatment markedly promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, GSK-3β and ERK1/2 in comparison with the MIRI model group. Western blot analysis after reperfusion also showed that H-TFDM decreased release of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, caspase-7 and caspase-9, and increased expression of Bcl-2 as evident by the higher Bcl-2/Bax ratio. TFDM cardio-protection was influenced by LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) and PD98059 (ERK1/2 inhibitor). Taken together, these results provide convincing evidence of the benefit of TFDM pretreatment due to inhibited myocardial apoptosis as mediated by the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β and ERK1/2 signaling pathways.

Depressant effect of geraniol on the central nervous system of rats: Behavior and ECoG power spectra

Geraniol is a monoterpene alcohol that is derived from the essential oils of aromatic plants, with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. This study characterized the effect of geraniol on behavior and brainwave patterns in rats. Male rats were submitted to administration of geraniol (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg). The hole board (HB) and open field (OF) tests were performed to evaluate anxiety and motor behavior, respectively. In addition, barbiturate-induced sleeping time (BIST) was used to analyze sedative effect. Finally, electrocorticogram (ECoG) recordings were used to characterize brain-wave patterns. The results showed that geraniol treatment in rats decreased the distance traveled, rearing numbers and lead to increase in immobility time in HB and OF tests. In BIST test, geraniol treatment increased sleep duration but not sleep latency in the animals. Furthermore, geraniol-treated animals demonstrated an increase in the percentage of delta waves in the total spectrum power. Taken together, our results suggested that geraniol exerted a depressant effect on the central nervous system of rats.

Cardioprotection of tilianin ameliorates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury: Role of the apoptotic signaling pathway

Our previous research demonstrated that tilianin protects the myocardium in a myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) rat model and has prominent pharmacological potential as a cardiovascular drug. Our study aimed to investigate the molecular signaling implicated in the improvement of myocardial survival induced by tilianin, a flavonoid antioxidant. Tilianin (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg/d) or saline was orally administered to rats for 14 days. On the 15th day, ischemia was induced by ligating the left anterior descending artery for 45 min, followed by 4 h of reperfusion. The levels of MIRI-induced serum myocardial enzymes and cardiomyocyte apoptosis as well as infarct size were examined to assess the cardioprotective effects. Cardiac tissues were collected for western blot analyses to determine the protein expression of anti-apoptotic signaling molecules. In MIRI-treated rats, our results revealed that pre-administration of high dose-tilianin the reduced release of LDH, MDA, and CK-MB and increased the plasma SOD level, and significantly attenuated the infarct size. Western blot analysis showed that a remarkable rise in expression of Bcl-2 and XIAP, and decline in expression of Bax, Smac/Diablo, HtrA2/Omi, cleaved caspase-3, caspase-7 and caspase-9 was observed in the myocardium. The apoptosis index of cardiomyocytes further supports the cardioprotective effect of tilianin. Additionally, compared with the MIRI model group, pretreatment with high dose-tilianin group upregulated phosphorylated Akt and PI3K. In contrast, using the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 to block Akt activation effectively inhibited the protective effects of tilianin against MIRI. Tilianin pretreatment was beneficial for activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and inhibiting myocardial apoptosis.

Effect of Low Temperature Cultivation on the Phytochemical Profile and Bioactivity of Arctic Plants: A Case of Dracocephalum palmatum

The influence of climatic factors, e.g., low temperature, on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of the arctic plant Dracocephalum palmatum Steph. ax Willd. (palmate dragonhead), a traditional food and medical herb of Northern Siberia, was investigated. D. palmatum seedlings were grown in a greenhouse experiment at normal (20 °C, NT) and low (1 °C, LT) temperature levels and five groups of components that were lipophilic and hydrophilic in nature were characterized. The analyses indicated that D. palmatum under NT demonstrates high content of photosynthetic pigments, specific fatty acid (FA) profile with domination of saturated FA (53.3%) and the essential oil with trans-pinocamphone as a main component (37.9%). Phenolic compounds were identified using a combination of high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass-spectrometric detection (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS) techniques, as well as free carbohydrates and water soluble polysaccharides. For the first time, it was established that the cold acclimation of D. palmatum seedlings resulted in various changes in physiological and biochemical parameters such as membrane permeability, photosynthetic potential, membrane fluidity, leaf surface secretory function, reactive oxygen species-antioxidant balance, osmoregulator content and cell wall polymers. In brief, results showed that the adaptive strategy of D. palmatum under LT was realized on the accumulation of membrane or surface components with more fluid properties (unsaturated FA and essential oils), antioxidants (phenolic compounds and enzymes), osmoprotectants (free sugars) and cell wall components (polysaccharides). In addition, the occurrence of unusual flavonoids including two new isomeric malonyl esters of eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside was found in LT samples. Data thus obtained allow improving our understanding of ecophysiological mechanisms of cold adaptation of arctic plants.

Total flavonoid extract from Dracoephalum moldavica L. attenuates β-amyloid-induced toxicity through anti-amyloidogenesic and neurotrophic pathways

AIMS

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder characterized by global cognitive impairment that involves accumulation of amyloid-beta peptides (Aβ) in the brain. Herbal approaches can be used as alternative medicines to slow the progression of AD. This study aimed to determine the beneficial effects and potential underlying mechanisms of total flavonoid extract from Dracoephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) for attenuating Alzheimer-related deficits induced by Aβ.

MAIN METHODS

We used amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin 1 (PS1) double transgenic mice and copper-injured APP Swedish mutation overexpressing SH-SY5Y cells to evaluate the beneficial effects of TFDM. Further, identifying the mechanisms of action was conducted on anti-amyloidogenic and neurotrophic transductions.

KEY FINDINGS

Our results indicated that TFDM treatment ameliorated cognitive impairments and neurodegeneration and improved the antioxidant defense system in APP/PS1 mice. TFDM also reduced Aβ burden by relieving Aβ deposition, decreasing insoluble Aβ levels, and inhibiting β-amyloidogenic processing pathway involving downregulation of β-secretase and β-C-terminal fragment in the brain. In the in vitro model of AD, TFDM treatment protected injured cells, and combined with the beneficial effects of decreasing APP levels, lowered Aβ_1-42 and regulated the redox imbalance. Moreover, TFDM preserved the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/cAMP response element-binding protein/brain-derived neurotrophic factor pathway both in vitro and in vivo.

SIGNIFICANCE

In conclusion, TFDM clearly demonstrated neuroprotective effects by restoring the anti-amyloidogenic and neurotrophic transductions in the context of AD-associated deficits. These findings indicate the potential use of herb-based substances as supplements or potential alternative supplements for attenuating the progression of AD.

Breast Cancer Resistance Protein and Multidrug Resistance Protein 2 Regulate the Disposition of Acacetin Glucuronides

PURPOSE

To determine the mechanism responsible for acacetin glucuronide transport and the bioavailability of acacetin.

METHODS

Area under the curve (AUC), clearance (CL), half-life (T1/2) and other pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by the pharmacokinetic model. The excretion of acacetin glucuronides was evaluated by the mouse intestinal perfusion model and the Caco-2 cell model.

RESULTS

In pharmacokinetic studies, the bioavailability of acacetin in FVB mice was 1.3%. Acacetin was mostly exposed as acacetin glucuronides in plasma. AUC of acacetin-7-glucuronide (Aca-7-Glu) was 2-fold and 6-fold higher in Bcrp1 (-/-) mice and Mrp2 (-/-) mice, respectively. AUC of acacetin-5-glucuronide (Aca-5-Glu) was 2-fold higher in Bcrp1 (-/-) mice. In mouse intestinal perfusion, the excretion of Aca-7-Glu was decreased by 1-fold and 2-fold in Bcrp1 (-/-) and Mrp2 (-/-) mice, respectively. In Caco-2 cells, the efflux rates of Aca-7-Glu and Aca-5-Glu were significantly decreased by breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) inhibitor Ko143 and multidrug resistance protein 2 (MRP2) inhibitor LTC4. The use of these inhibitors markedly increased the intracellular acacetin glucuronide content.

CONCLUSIONS

BCRP and MRP2 regulated the in vivo disposition of acacetin glucuronides. The coupling of glucuronidation and efflux transport was probably the primary reason for the low bioavailability of acacetin.

Cheminformatics-Based Anticoagulant Study of Traditionally Used Medicinal Plants

Background:

Medicinal plants, as a complementary medicine, have been used to treat various diseases since ancient times. These plants have numerous beneficial applications and are the source of certain conventional drugs. In diseases such as stroke and ischemia, which are caused by several factors, abnormal coagulation is an important causative factor. Accordingly, novel and effective therapies such as herbal remedies should be practiced to prevent such lethal diseases.

Methods:

Using the available databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed, the previously reported anticoagulant compounds and plants possessing anticoagulant activity were identified and collected in two separate lists. Next, the fast and cost-effective cheminformatics methods incorporated in PubChem were applied to detect some compounds similar to reported anticoagulants. Subsequently, 15 native medical plants of Iran containing the potential anticoagulants were selected. The selected plants were purchased and chopped, and the potential compounds were extracted by ethanol. Then three concentrations of extracts (1, 10, and 100 µg per ml) were made. Finally, anticoagulant effect of the selected plants was evaluated by in vitro prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time coagulation tests.

Results:

Among the 15 selected medicinal plants, three plants, including Terminalia bellirica (P=0.0019), Astragalus arbusculinus (P=0.0021), and Origanum vulgare (P=0.0014) showed a more promising anticoagulant effect in comparison to the control.

Conclusion:

The anticoagulant activity was identified for the first time in these three plants. Further in vivo study and mechanism of action assay are required to be performed on these three plants, which could be suitable candidates for use as natural anticoagulant medicines.

An untargeted metabolomics approach to determine component differences and variation in their in vivo distribution between Kuqin and Ziqin, two commercial specifications of Scutellaria Radix

Kuqin (KQ) and Ziqin (ZQ), derived from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, are two important commercial specifications of Scutellariae Radix (SR, termed Huang qin in Chinese).

Improved Oral Bioavailability of Total Flavonoids of Dracocephalum moldavica via Composite Phospholipid Liposomes: Preparation, in-vitro Drug Release and Pharmacokinetics in Rats

Background:

Dracocephalum moldavica L is a traditional Uygur medicine for centuries, total flavonoids extracted from Dracocephalum moldavica are the major active ingredients of herbs, which possesses significant medicinal values to treat coronart disease and hypertension, due to the glycosyl group on the ring, total flavonoids of Dracocephalum moldavica has low hydrophilic and poorly absorbed after oral administration, so one way is the formulation of poorly water soluble and permeabledrugs with lipids containing formulations such as Composite phospholipid liposomes to improve the absorption profile of drug.

Objectives:

To prepare composite phospholipid liposome (CPL) encapsulatetotal flavonoids extract from Dracocephalum moldavica (TFDM), determine its physicochemical properties, investigate its in-vitro release and evaluate the pharmacokinetics in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats to increase the bioavailability of TFDM-CPL.

Material and Methods:

The TFDMCPL was prepared by the method of ammonium sulfate transmembrane gradients. The CPL and TFDM were separated by Sephadex-G50 chromatography. The concentration of TFDM in the CPL was detected by HPLC, then the entrapment efficiency (EE) was evaluated. And the shape, particle size, zeta potential, drug release in vitro of TFDMCPL were investigated, and the pharmacokinetics was evaluated by rat jugular vein intubation tube in SD rats.

Results:

The EE of TFDM was 84.17±2.2%, mean size of TFDMCPL was 136.2±3.7nm, polymey disperse index (PDI) was 0.158±0.015 and zeta potential was -19.8±1.2mV. TFDM-CPLwere found to enhance the release of drugs more effectively than TFDM based on the in vitro model and Following oral administration of TFDM, the plasma exposures of TFDM-CPL was significantly extended, and the mean concentration of TFDM-CPL was significantly higher compared to TFDM-solution. TheC_max, t_1/2, AUC_{0-12 h} values of TFDM for group of TFDM-CPL were siginificantly increased.

Conclusion:

The method of ammonium sulfate transmembrane gradients is suitable for preparingTFDM-CPL. And TFDM-CPL have potential to be used to improve the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs after oral administration.

SUMMARY

For the first time, composite phospholipid liposomes (CPL) containing total flavonoids of Dracocephalum moldavica (TFDM) were developed by method of ammonium sulfate transmembrane gradients.

The TFDM-CPL was a significant improvement in bioavailability compared to the TFDM-solution, with a 10-fold increase in relative bioavailability in vivo.

The TFDM-CPL was still stable during storage at 4oC for 6 months.

Abbreviations Used: CPL: composite phospholipid liposome.; TFDM: Total Flavonoids Extract from Dracocephalum moldavica; SD:Sprague-Dawley; EE:entrapment efficiency; PDI: polymey disperse index; TFDM-CPL: Total flavonoid extract from Dracocephalum moldavica – composite phospholipid liposome; DM: Dracocephalum moldavica L.; SPC: Soybean phospholipid; HSPC: Hydrogenated soya phosphatide; PBS: phosphate buffered saline; HPLC: high performance liquid chromatography; TEM: transmission electron microscopy; CMC-Na: Carboxy Methyl Cellulose-Natrium; AUC: area under the curve

Anxiolytic-like effects and toxicological studies of Brickellia cavanillesii (Cass.) A. Gray in experimental mice models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Brickellia cavanillesii (Asteraceae) (Cass.) A. Gray is one of the popular plants consumed in Central America and Mexico for the treatment of several diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and anxiety, among others.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine the anxiolytic-like effect of B. Cavanillesii and the safety of its use through toxicological studies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Anxiolytic-like effects of soluble-methanol extract of B. cavanillesii (MEBc) were evaluated in ambulatory activity (open-field test), hole-board test, cylinder of exploration, the elevated plus-maze and the potentiation of the sodium pentobarbital-induced hypnosis mice models. On the other hand, in vivo toxicological studies were conducted on acute and sub-acute mice models recommended by OECD. Active MEBc was subjected to phytochemical studies through conventional chromatographic techniques to isolate bioactive compounds.

RESULTS

MEBc (100mg/Kg) showed significant anxiolytic-like effect on animal model used (p<0.05). The phytochemical analysis of MEBc allowed the isolation of two major compounds nicotiflorin and acacetin, among others. Both compounds were found to be partially responsible for the anxiolytic-like effects. Moreover, a median lethal dose (LD₅₀) higher than 2000mg/Kg was determined in mice and sub-acute oral administration of MEBc (100mg/Kg) did not alter body weight, clinical chemistry parameters (ALT and AST) and it did not induce any toxic nor alteration in the liver, kidney and heart functions.

CONCLUSIONS

In current investigation, we have shown that MEBc has a wide range of pharmacology-toxicology patterns. The results support further investigation of MEBc as a potential anxiolytic phytomedicinal agent.

Involvement of the GABAergic system in the neuroprotective and sedative effects of acacetin 7-O-glucoside in rodents

Purpose: Characterization of sedative, possible anticonvulsant, and protective effects of Acacetin-7-O-glucoside (7-ACAG).

Methods: 7-ACAG was separated and its purity was analyzed. Its sedative and anti-seizure effects (1, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) were evaluated in male mice. Synaptic responses were acquired from area CA1 of hippocampal slices obtained from male Wistar rats. Rats were subjected to stereotaxic surgeries to allow Electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings. Functional recovery was evaluated by measuring the time rats spent in completing the motor task. Then the rats were subjected to right hemiplegia and administered 7-ACAG (40 mg/kg) 1 h or 24 h after surgery. Brains of each group of rats were prepared for histological analysis.

Results: Effective sedative doses of 7-ACAG comprised those between 20 and 40 mg/kg. Latency and duration of the epileptiform crisis were delayed by this flavonoid. 7-ACAG decreased the synaptic response in vitro, similar to Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) effects. The flavonoid facilitated functional recovery. This data was associated with preserved cytoarchitecture in brain cortex and hippocampus.

Conclusions: 7-ACAG possesses anticonvulsive and sedative effects. Results suggest that GABAergic activity and neuroprotection are involved in the mechanism of action of 7-ACAG and support this compound’s being a potential drug for treatment of anxiety or post-operative conditions caused by neurosurgeries.

Mexican medicinal plants with anxiolytic or antidepressant activity: Focus on preclinical research

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anxiety and depression are considered the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide. In Mexico, the use of medicinal plants to alleviate the symptoms associated with these psychiatric disorders is increasing. However, there is little scientific evidence that validates the efficacy of these plants. This evidence needs to be critically revised, and further studied to provided scientific support for their use.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To identify the plants that are used in Mexico for the treatment of disorders related to anxiety and depression, and to review the current preclinical and when available, clinical information of these plants.

METHODS

We searched in scientific databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and other web sources such as "Biblioteca digital de la medicina tradicional Mexicana" ) for Mexican plants used for the treatment of anxiety and depression that have been analyzed in preclinical studies. Additional information was obtained from published books. For this review, we also consider those plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of "nervios," "susto" or "espanto;" common terms that describe symptoms related to anxiety and depression disorders.

RESULTS

The bibliographic search identified 49 plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of disorders related to anxiety and depression. From all these plants, 59% were analyzed in preclinical research, and only 8% were tested in clinical studies; only a few of these studies tried to elucidate their mechanism of action. In general, it is proposed that the plant extracts interact with the GABAergic system. However, only part of these studies attempted to analyze other neurotransmitter systems. Finally, in some cases, drug-herbal interactions were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a large number of Mexican medicinal plants used as a treatment for anxiety and depression disorders. Although some of these plants have been studied in preclinical research, in most cases these studies are preliminary, and the understanding of the mechanism of action is inconclusive. The need for systematic studies in preclinical and clinical research is evident, and efforts should be done to fulfill these research. Finally, it is important also to study possible drug-herbal interactions to establish specific recommendations for people that use these plants as anxiolytic or antidepressant treatments either alone or in combination with another type of medicine.

Neuropharmacological characterization of the oneirogenic Mexican plant Calea zacatechichi aqueous extract in mice

This study evaluates the neuropharmacological effects of the aqueous extract of the Mexican plant Calea zacatechichi Schltdl., which is commonly used in folk medicine to treat cough, asthma, and gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, it has been used for centuries in traditional rituals based on divination and is thought to possess hallucinogenic activity. To test the neuropharmacological effects of the aqueous extract of C. zacatechichi we used mouse models of convulsions, an elevated plus-maze test and measured locomotor activity. We also evaluated the effect of the extract on antidepressant-like behavior in forced swim test, as well as on muscular strength in a grip test. Moreover the antinociceptive action of the extract was evaluated in the hot-plate and writhing tests. The chemical composition of the extract was evaluated using LC-MS techniques. The aqueous extract of C. zacatechichi did not affect any of the parameters measured in seizure models. It had also no influence on anxiety, exploratory behavior and muscular strength in the applied doses. On the other hand, the extract exhibited antinociceptive effect in the mouse model of abdominal pain. Chemical characterization of the extract showed the presence of chlorogenic acid, acacetin, and germacranolides. Based on this report we suggest that aqueous extract of C. zacatechichi has insignificant neuropharmacological effects in vivo and reduces abdominal pain perception. Our results, together with previous studies showing beneficial effects of the extracts obtained from C. zacatechichi suggest that these preparations may be used to treat medical conditions.

Linalool and β-pinene exert their antidepressant-like activity through the monoaminergic pathway

AIMS

Linalool and β-pinene are two volatile monoterpenes that possess antidepressant-like activity. These are components of many aromatic plants used in folk medicine around the world to relieve anxiety and depression. In this contribution, we focused on examining the mechanism of action of these compounds.

MAIN METHODS

We used mice in the forced swimming test (FST) and antagonist drugs (i.p.) to receptors related to the depression process such as 5-HT1A. To assess the possible contribution of the serotoninergic system, animals were pre-treated with WAY 100635 (a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist) and PCPA (a serotonin synthesis inhibitor).To assess the participation of the noradrenergic system, the animals were pre-treated with yohimbine (an α2 receptor antagonist), propranolol (a β receptor antagonist) and neurotoxin DSP-4 (a noradrenergic neurotoxin). In the dopaminergic system, we used SCH23390 (a D1 receptor antagonist).

KEY FINDINGS

WAY 100635 blocked the antidepressant-like effect of linalool and β-pinene. In contrast, pretreatment of mice with PCPA did not modify reductions in the immobility time elicited by the two monoterpenes. The yohimbine modified the effect of linalool on immobility time. Propranolol and neurotoxin DSP-4 reversed the anti-immobility effect of β-pinene; also, SCH23390 blocked the antidepressant-like effect of β-pinene.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results indicate that linalool and β-pinene produce an antidepressant-like effect through interaction with the monoaminergic system.

Simultaneous Determination of Six Active Compounds in Yixin Badiranjibuya Granules, a Traditional Chinese Medicine, by RP-HPLC-UV Method

In this study, a sensitive, precise, and accurate HPLC-UV method was developed and validated to simultaneously determine the six analytes (luteolin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, apigenin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, diosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, acacetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, tilianin, and rosmarinic acid) in Yixin Badiranjibuya Granules, in which five analytes (i.e., luteolin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, apigenin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, diosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, acacetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, and rosmarinic acid) were determined for the first time in Yixin Badiranjibuya Granules, the content of tilianin in Yixin Badiranjibuya Granules was reported in other literatures, and the content of tilianin in our work was higher than that of the literature reports. The quality of 11 batch samples from four different manufacturers was evaluated using the proposed determination method. The contents of the six analytes were largely different among samples from various manufacturers. Therefore, this determination method can provide a scientific basis for quality evaluation and control of Yixin Badiranjibuya Granules.

Central nervous system effects and chemical composition of two subspecies of Agastache mexicana; an ethnomedicine of Mexico

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Agastache mexicana subspecies mexicana (Amm) and xolocotziana (Amx) are used in Mexican traditional medicine to relief cultural affiliation syndromes known as "susto" or "espanto", for "nervous" condition, and as a sleep aid. Despite its intensive use, neuropharmacological studies are scarce, and the chemical composition of the aqueous extracts has not been described. Aims of the study are: (1) To analyze the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from aerial parts of Amm and Amx. (2) To evaluate the anxiolytic-like, sedative, antidepressant-like effects. (3) Analyze the general toxic effects of different doses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anxiolytic-like and sedative effects were measured in the avoidance exploratory behavior, burying behavior and the hole-board tests. The antidepressant-like actions were studied in the forced swimming and tail suspension tests. Finally, general activity and motor coordination disturbances were evaluated in the open field, inverted screen and rota-rod tests. The acute toxicity of Amm and Amx was determined by calculating their LD50 (mean lethal dose). The chemical analyses were performed employing chromatographic, photometric and HPLC-ESI-MS techniques.

RESULTS

Low doses of Amm and Amx (0.1σ1.0mg/kg) induced anxiolytic-like actions; while higher doses (over 10mg/kg) induced sedation and reduced the locomotor activity, exerting a general inhibition in the central nervous system (CNS).

CONCLUSIONS

Results support the use of Amm and Amx in traditional medicine as tranquilizers and sleep inducers. Additionally, this paper contributes to the knowledge of the chemical composition of the aqueous extracts of these plants.

A perspective on natural products research and ethnopharmacology in Mexico: the eagle and the serpent on the prickly pear cactus

Mexico's extraordinarily rich cultural and floristic diversity has fascinated explorers and researchers ever since the "New World" was discovered for and by Europeans. For many decades, natural product research has been a very active field of research in Mexico, and there also are some ongoing ethnopharmacological research efforts. This review provides an overview and critical appraisal on some key developments in these fields and examples of medicinal plants used by indigenous communities that have become of great local importance in Mexican popular medicine. In this review, the focus is on plants with effects on the CNS, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory processes, and gastrointestinal disorders. While some of the major food plants consumed worldwide originate from southern North America, only very few medicinal plants have become of major global importance. Opuntia species are now used increasingly to manage diabetes and metabolic syndrome and represent an example of a novel medicinal product/supplement. Undoubtedly, narcotic and mind-altering drugs both have received the widest scientific interest and have attracted considerable popular attention. The history of use of the indigenous Mexican Materia Medica in the context of research on local and popular resources specifically with regard to the diverse challenges in the context of studying the world's biodiversity and the development of comparative and semiquantitative ethnobotanical research methods is discussed herein. Natural product and ethnopharmacological research in Mexico seems to have been influenced by the political and societal developments originating from the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and subsequent conventions, which have not yet had the desired effect of giving value to these local resources, as they might deserve. Their equitable and sustainable implementation remains a challenge. Natural product research and ethnopharmacology will play a key role in developing an adequate evidence base for such products derived from local and traditional knowledge in Mexico.

Heteropterys cotinifolia: a neuropharmacological and phytochemical approach with possible taxonomic implications

Heteropterys cotinifolia (Malpighiaceae) has been used in traditional Mexican medicine mainly for the treatment of nervous disorders. However, the specific neuropharmacological activities responsible for this use remain to be defined. The present study evaluates the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects produced by the methanolic extract of Heteropterys cotinifolia and the influence of such effects on motor activity in ICR mice. Our results show that the methanolic extract of Heteropterys cotinifolia produces a dose-dependent antidepressant effect in the forced swimming test in mice at doses from 31 to 310 mg/kg, with no reduction of mice locomotion. However, no anxiolytic properties were observed. Our findings suggest that the main extract compounds identified as chlorogenic acid and rutin may be involved in the antidepressant effects. To our knowledge, the present study constitutes the first report of pharmacological and phytochemical data of Heteropterys cotinifolia. The presence of flavonoids in the methanolic extract of Heteropterys cotinifolia may also provide further data to characterize taxonomically this species in order to be distinguished from others species closely related and belonging to the same genus.