Anti-allergic effects of sesquiterpene lactones from Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. determined using in vivo and in vitro experiments

Efficacy of Laurus nobilis L. for Tight Junction Protein Imbalance in Leaky Gut Syndrome

Laurus nobilis L. (LNL) belongs to the evergreen Lauraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean and widely distributed in the southern United States, Europe, and the Middle East. LNL is rich in active ingredients of the sesquiterpene lactone series and has been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. And parthenolide, known as a sesquiterpene lactone-based compound, inhibits the activation of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), which is a major trigger for leaky gut syndrome. However, the effectiveness of LNL in improving the state of increased intestinal permeability has not yet been reported. Therefore, we demonstrated the efficacy of LNL, which is known to be rich in parthenolide, in improving intestinal permeability induced by IL-13. We investigated the improvement in permeability and analyzed major tight junction proteins (TJs), permeability-related mechanisms, weight and disease activity indices, and corresponding cytokine mechanisms. LNL maintained TJs homeostasis and clinical improvement by reducing increased claudin-2 through the inhibition of IL-13/STAT6 activation in TJ-damaged conditions. These results are expected to be effective in preventing leaky gut syndrome through the TJ balance and to further improve intestinal-related diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Copaiba oil minimizes inflammation and promotes parenchyma re-epithelization in acute allergic asthma model induced by ovalbumin in BALB/c mice

Introduction: Asthma is a condition of airflow limitation, common throughout the world, with high mortality rates, especially as it still faces some obstacles in its management. As it constitutes a public health challenge, this study aimed to investigate the effect of copaiba oil (e.g., Copaifera langsdorffii), as a treatment resource, at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg on certain mediators of acute lung inflammation (IL-33, GATA3, FOXP3, STAT3, and TBET) and early mechanisms of lung remodeling (degradation of elastic fiber tissues, collagen deposition, and goblet cell hyperplasia). Methods: Using an ovalbumin-induced acute allergic asthma model in BALB/c mice, we analyzed the inflammatory mediators through immunohistochemistry and the mechanisms of lung remodeling through histopathology, employing orcein, Masson's trichrome, and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Results: Copaiba oil treatment (CO) reduced IL-33 and increased FOXP3 by stimulating the FOXP3/GATA3 and FOXP3/STAT3 pathways. Additionally, it upregulated TBET, suggesting an additional role in controlling GATA3 activity. In the respiratory epithelium, CO decreased the fragmentation of elastic fibers while increasing the deposition of collagen fibers, favoring epithelial restructuring. Simultaneously, CO reduced goblet cell hyperplasia. Discussion: Although additional research is warranted, the demonstrated anti-inflammatory and re-epithelializing action makes CO a viable option in exploring new treatments for acute allergic asthma.

Ethnopharmacologically important highly subsidized Indian medicinal plants: Systematic review on their traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, quality control, conservation status and future prospective

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

India has an extensive reservoir of traditional wisdom and a diverse range of medicinal plants that enrich its heritage. Plants have actively been used for healthcare practices globally since the time immemorial. Medicinal uses of plants have been well recognized in India, evident from plant species documented in different traditional medicinal systems such as Ayurveda (1400-1800 species), Siddha (500-900 species), Unani (400-700 species), Homeopathy (about 372 species), and Sowa-Rigpa (about 250 species), etc. AIM OF THE STUDY: The primary purpose of this review is to provide systematic updated information on thirteen medicinal plants prioritized by the Indian government (providing75 % subsidy on cultivation cost) based on the availability and market demand of these plants. Updated information regarding the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, quality control, and conservation status of these plants will help in understanding their pharmacological and commercial importance. This will also help in developing new strategies for their conservation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Online databases such as SciFinder, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar were used to collect the electronically available literature on targeted thirteen plants. Also, different Indian government official websites such as AYUSH (https://www.ayush.gov.in); NMPB (National Medicinal Plants Board) (https://nmpb.nic.in); e.charak (https://echarak.in) were used for collecting information related to the amount of subsidy, trade and price related information of these plants.

RESULTS

To promote medicinal plant cultivation, the Indian government provides subsidies for cultivating some traditionally important medicinal plants. These plants are divided into three categories according to the subsidy provided to farmers, i.e., 30%, 50%, and 75% of the cost of cultivation. Thirteen medicinal plants which are provided 75% subsidy are Aconitum ferox Wall., Aconitum heterophyllum Wall., Aquilaria agallocha Roxb., Berberis aristata DC., Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari, Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC., Oroxylum indicum (L.) Benth. ex Kurz, Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth., Podophyllum hexandrum Royle, Pterocarpus santalinus L.f., Santalum Album L., Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch., and Swertia chirayita (Roxb.) H.Karst. The literature survey reveals the enormous traditional medicinal importance, wide geographical distribution, diverse range of natural products, and broad spectrum of pharmacological activities of these plants.

CONCLUSION

A comprehensive literature survey revealed that although remarkable progress has been made in isolation, bioactivity evaluation, quality assessment, and conservation, there is still a lot of scope for further scientific interventions. Scientific validation of traditionally claimed medicinal potential is lacking for various bioactivities. Some of the bioactivities are performed just on extracts/fractions, so there is a need for proper phytochemical studies to identify active constituents responsible for the specific bioactivity. Further, quality assessment methods using both targeted and non-targeted tools are required to evaluate the quality of these highly-priced medicinal plants and their adulterants. Ultimately, to encourage the cultivation of these endangered medicinal plant species, it is imperative to implement proper legislation and employ in-situ and ex-situ conservation tools.

Targeted isolation of sesquiterpene lactone dimers from Aucklandia lappa guided by LC-HRMS/MS-based molecular networking

An LC-HRMS/MS-based molecular networking strategy was applied to investigate the potential sesquiterpene dimers of Aucklandia lappa, leading to the isolation of three undescribed guaiane-guaiane dimers and one guaiane-eudesmane dimer together with six known sesquiterpenes. The structures were determined by analyzing their 1D, 2D NMR, and HRESIMS data as well as ECD calculations. The biogenetic pathway of the sesquiterpene dimers was postulated to involve the Diels-Alder cycloaddition as the key step. All compounds exhibited their inhibitory effects on LPS-induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 macrophages with IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.3 to 25.1 μM.

Optimization of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction of Saussurea costus Oil and Its Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Activities

Saussurea costus is a medicinal plant with different bioactive compounds that have an essential role in biomedicine applications, especially in Arab nations. However, traditional extraction methods for oils can lead to the loss of some volatile and non-volatile oils. Therefore, this study aimed to optimize the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of oils from S. costus at pressures (10, 20, and 48 MPa). The results were investigated by GC/MS analysis. MTT, DPPH, and agar diffusion methods assessed the extracted oils’ anticancer, antioxidant, and antimicrobial action. GC/MS results showed that elevated pressure from 10 to 20 and 48 MPa led to the loss of some valuable compounds. In addition, the best IC₅₀ values were recorded at 10 MPa on HCT, MCF-7, and HepG-2 cells at about 0.44, 0.46, and 0.74 μg/mL, respectively. In contrast, at 20 MPa, the IC₅₀ values were about 2.33, 6.59, and 19.0 μg/mL, respectively, on HCT, MCF-7, and HepG-2 cells, followed by 48 MPa, about 36.02, 59.5, and 96.9 μg/mL. The oil extract at a pressure of 10 MPa contained much more of á-elemene, dihydro-à-ionone, patchoulene, á-maaliene, à-selinene, (-)-spathulenol, cedran-diol, 8S,13, elemol, eremanthin, á-guaiene, eudesmol, ç-gurjunenepoxide-(2), iso-velleral, and propanedioic acid and had a higher antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ 14.4 μg/mL) more than the oil extract at 20 and 48 MPa. In addition, the inhibitory activity of all extracts was higher than gentamicin against all tested bacteria. One of the more significant findings from this study is low pressure in SFE enhancement, the extraction of oils from S. costus, for the first time. As a result, the SFE is regarded as a good extraction technique since it is both quick and ecologically friendly. Furthermore, SFE at 10 MPa increased the production and quality of oils, with high antioxidant activity and a positive effect on cancer cells and pathogens.

The ethnomedicinal evidences pertaining to traditional medicinal herbs used in the treatment of respiratory illnesses and disorders in Saudi Arabia: A review

Due to their prevalence, respiratory diseases have attained great attention from the historical time. Furthermore, it has been explored in a new dimension due to recent viral outbreaks such as COVID-19. Even though modern medicine treats the majority of respiratory ailments, it is reported that the majority of people (≥80 %) who suffer from respiratory disorders do not take medication for their conditions, and a considerable number of people still believe in and use herbal medicines. Herbal therapies have been utilized all over the world for thousands of years. Traditional herbal treatment has long been seen as a valuable practice in Saudi Arabia, long before modern medicine. Due to its location in the desert and humid climate, Saudi Arabia suffers from a high rate of respiratory illnesses caused by dust, pollens, and viruses. Several published literature have employed different plants and plant products for respiratory problems, but there has yet to be a single, complete study centered on Saudi Arabia. In this review, 41 plants were identified, which has complete details regarding their usage in traditional practice for respiratory disorders. A thorough investigation was conducted and the results were detailed.

An effective method for preventing cholestatic liver injury of Aucklandiae Radix and Vladimiriae Radix: Inflammation suppression and regulate the expression of bile acid receptors

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aucklandiae Radix (AR) and Vladimiriae Radix (VR) were used to treat gastrointestinal, liver and gallbladder diseases at practice. In most conditions, VR was used to be a substitute of AR or a local habit may attribute to the same main active ingredients Costunolide and Dehydrocostus lactone, which presented many similar pharmacological activities. However, other different lactone compounds in AR and VR also play a role in disease treatment, so the difference in therapeutic effects of AR and VR in related diseases needs to be further studied.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

Revealing the differences between the chemical compounds of the total lactone extracts of AR and VR (TLE of AR and VR) and the differences in the protective effects of cholestatic liver injury to ensure rational use of AR and VR.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The macroporous adsorption resin was used to purify and enrich the lactone compounds to obtain the total lactone extracts of AR and VR. HPLC-PDA was used to obtain the data to establish chemical fingerprint and chemometric analysis to compare similarities and differences between TLE of AR and VR. The pharmacodynamic experiment revealed how TLE of AR and VR to show protect effects on cholestatic liver injury.

RESULTS

Similarity analysis results showed TLE of AR and VR had a high similarity (>0.9). Nevertheless, difference analysis results showed 4 compounds, Costunolide, Dehydrocostus lactone, 3β-acetoxy-11β-guaia-4 (15), 10 (14)-diene-12,6α-olide and vladinol F may contribute to the differences between them. The pharmacodynamics experiments results showed the TLE of AR and VR affected the different liver cholate-associated transporters mRNA expression (TLE of AR up-regulated CYP7A1, TLE of VR down-regulated FXR and BSEP), the TLE of AR and VR had an effect to regulate biochemical indicators (AST, ALT, ALP, TBA) of liver function, and TLE of VR was better than TLE of AR in reducing the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6 and IL-1β).

CONCLUSION

The liver protection of AR and VR have been confirmed, but the differences of material basis and mechanism of drug efficacy needed further study to guarantee formulation research and provide theoretical references for clinical rational applications of AR and VR.

Phytochemical Discrimination, Biological Activity and Molecular Docking of Water-Soluble Inhibitors from Saussurea costus Herb against Main Protease of SARS-CoV-2

Siddha medicine is one of the oldest medical systems in the world and is believed to have originated more than 10,000 years ago and is prevalent across ancient Tamil land. It is undeniable that inhibitor preferences rise with increasing solubility in water due to the considerations pertaining to the bioavailability and the ease of which unabsorbed residues can be disposed of. In this study, we showed the phytochemical discrimination of Saussurea costus extracted with water at room temperature as a green extraction procedure. A total of 48 compounds were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The fatty acids had a high phytochemical abundance at 73.8%, followed by tannins at 8.2%, carbohydrates at 6.9%, terpenoids at 4.3%, carboxylic acids at 2.5%, hydrocarbons at 2.4%, phenolic compounds at 0.2%, and sterols at 1.5%. Of these compounds, 22 were docked on the active side and on the catalytic dyad of His41 and Cys145 of the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 (M^pro). Eight active inhibitors were carbohydrates, five were fatty acids, three were terpenoids, two were carboxylic acids, one was a tannin, one was a phenolic compound, and one was a sterol. The best inhibitors were 4,8,13-Cyclotetradecatriene-1,3-diol, 1,5,9-trimethyl-12-(1-methylethyl), Andrographolide, and delta.4-Androstene-3.beta.,17.beta.-diol, with a binding affinity that ranged from −6.1 kcal/mol to −6.5 kcal/mol. The inhibitory effect of Saussurea costus of SARS-CoV-2 entry into the cell was studied using a pseudovirus with Spike proteins from the D614G variant and the VOC variants Gamma and Delta. Based on the viral cycle of SARS-CoV-2, our results suggest that the Saussurea costus aqueous extract has no virucidal effect and inhibits the virus in the events after cell entry. Furthermore, the biological activity of the aqueous extract was investigated against HSV-1 virus and two bacterial strains, namely Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA 1026 and Escherichia coli ATCC 9637. According to this study, an enormous number of water-soluble inhibitors were identified from Saussurea costus against the M^pro, and this is unprecedented as far as we know.

The Complexity of Sesquiterpene Chemistry Dictates Its Pleiotropic Biologic Effects on Inflammation

Sesquiterpenes (SQs) are volatile compounds made by plants, insects, and marine organisms. SQ have a large range of biological properties and are potent inhibitors and modulators of inflammation, targeting specific components of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) signaling pathway and nitric oxide (NO) generation. Because SQs can be isolated from over 1600 genera and 2500 species grown worldwide, they are an attractive source of phytochemical therapeutics. The chemical structure and biosynthesis of SQs is complex, and the SQ scaffold represents extraordinary structural variety consisting of both acyclic and cyclic (mono, bi, tri, and tetracyclic) compounds. These structures can be decorated with a diverse range of functional groups and substituents, generating many stereospecific configurations. In this review, the effect of SQs on inflammation will be discussed in the context of their complex chemistry. Because inflammation is a multifactorial process, we focus on specific aspects of inflammation: the inhibition of NF-kB signaling, disruption of NO production and modulation of dendritic cells, mast cells, and monocytes. Although the molecular targets of SQs are varied, we discuss how these pathways may mediate the effects of SQs on inflammation.

Mechanism exploration of ancient pharmaceutic processing (Paozhi) improving the gastroprotective efficacy of Aucklandiae Radix

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Processing, also called Paozhi in Chinese, is an ancient Chinese pharmaceutic processing technique developed along with the Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs). The understanding of the mechanism of Paozhi has been investigated for several decades. Aucklandiae Radix (CAR) and its roasted processed products are all used in indigestion as a kind of CHMs. Processed Aucklandiae Radix (PAR) had a stronger effect to protect gastric mucosa than CAR, while the main compounds in CAR were reduced sharply after being processed. The underlying mechanism of this phenomenon is still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to evaluate whether PAR have a stronger gastroprotective effect than CAR and the underlying mechanisms of such circumstance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultra-fast liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UFLC-QTOF-MS/MS) coupled with multivariate statistical analyses was employed to explore chemical compounds which had a relatively stable content in PAR. Based on the compounds selected as the research object, network pharmacology was applied to visualize the relationships between the selected components and the gastroprotective-related targets from disease database, at the same time the possible intervention path of CAR/PAR which might be responsible for the effect of CAR/PAR on gastritis-induced rats was also built. Then, the key proteins were detected by western blotting to verify and compare the pharmacological effects of CAR/PAR.

RESULTS

Through UFLC-QTOF-MS/MS and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), sixteen compounds stable in PAR were discovered, of which saussureamine C and saussureamine B were estimated as the core compounds to exert gastroprotective in PAR predicted by network pharmacology analysis. Under the guide of KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, PI3K/AKT, p38 MAPK (Mitogen-activated protein kinase) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways were forecasted as the possible healing mechanisms of CAR/PAR, and that result was verified by the experiments in vivo. PAR performed a stronger ability to reduce the level of p38 MAPK and NF-κB p65 than CAR, which may partially explain the different ability of CAR/PAR against gastric mucosa damage.

CONCLUSION

This study clarified that although Paozhi entailed a sharp decrease on the main compounds of CAR, there were some compounds which were not sensitive to high temperature and preserved in PAR and had a relative higher content in PAR than in CAR. PAR has stronger influence on MAPKs/NF-κB signaling pathway than CAR, which may reveal that the stronger gastroprotective effect of PAR perhaps rely on the constitutions with a higher relative abundance after Paozhi. The present research combined UFLC-QTOF-MS/MS and network pharmacology deeply investigated the impact of the roasted processing on the chemical constitutions and gastroprotective effect of CAR and offered reference for the clinical application of CAR/PAR.

From Monographs to Chromatograms: The Antimicrobial Potential of Inula Helenium L. (Elecampane) Naturalised in Ireland

With antimicrobial resistance rising globally, the exploration of alternative sources of candidate molecules is critical to safeguard effective chemotherapeutics worldwide. Plant natural products are accessible, structurally diverse compounds with antimicrobial potential. The pharmacological applications of plants in medicine can be guided by the attestation of traditional use, as demonstrated in this study. In Irish ethnomedical literature, Inula helenium L. (elecampane) is often indicated for respiratory and dermal ailments. This is the first assessment of antimicrobial sesquiterpene lactones from the roots of elecampane, naturalised in Ireland. Traditional hydro-ethanolic extracts were prepared from multi-origin elecampane roots. A novel clean-up strategy facilitated the bioactivity-guided fractionation of a subset of anti-staphylococcal fractions (the compositions of which were investigated using HPLC-DAD, supported by ¹H NMR). The natural products attributing to the antimicrobial activity, observed in vitro, were identified as alantolactone (1), isoalantolactone (2), igalan (3), and an unseparated mixture of dugesialactone (4) and alloalantolactone (5), as major compounds. The findings suggest that the geographical origin of the plant does not influence the anti-bacterial potency nor the chemical composition of traditional elecampane root. Considering the prevalence of staphylococci-associated infections and associated broad spectrum resistance in Irish hospitals, currently, further research is warranted into the usage of the identified compounds as potential candidates in the control of staphylococcal carriage and infection.

Anti-Inflammatory and Immunoregulatory Action of Sesquiterpene Lactones

Sesquiterpene lactones (SL), characterized by their high prevalence in the Asteraceae family, are one of the major groups of secondary metabolites found in plants. Researchers from distinct research fields, including pharmacology, medicine, and agriculture, are interested in their biological potential. With new SL discovered in the last years, new biological activities have been tested, different action mechanisms (synergistic and/or antagonistic effects), as well as molecular structure–activity relationships described. The review identifies the main sesquiterpene lactones with interconnections between immune responses and anti-inflammatory actions, within different cellular models as well in in vivo studies. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability, as well as molecular structure–activity relationships are addressed. Additionally, plant metabolic engineering, and the impact of sesquiterpene lactone extraction methodologies are presented, with the perspective of biological activity enhancement. Sesquiterpene lactones derivatives are also addressed. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the therapeutic potential of sesquiterpene lactones within immune and inflammatory activities, highlighting trends and opportunities for their pharmaceutical/clinical use.

Deciphering Chemical Profiling, Pharmacological Responses and Potential Bioactive Constituents of Saussurea lappa Decne. extracts through In Vitro Approaches

Despite advancement in modern medicines, plant derived medicines have still wide range utilities as they have less side effects and are cheap and biocompitable. Sassurea lappa is an extensively used plant in traditional medicinal formulations. Plant roots are used to cure various diseases including cancer, rheumatic pain, abdominal and nervous disorders. The present study was aimed for the evalution of biological potentials of methanolic and chloroform extracts of Saussurea lappa root, leaf, seed and flower. The methanolic and chloroform extracts were subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses. Identification of functional groups was performed using Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Antioxidant potential was determined via diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), total reducing power (TRP) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) method, anti-hemolytic potential was conducted on human RBCs, antibacterial activity was evaluated against six American type culture collection (ATCC) and three multi drug resistance (MDR) strains, cytotoxic and phytotoxic potentials were evaluated through brine shrimp lethality assay and raddish seed assay respectively. Experiments were performed in triplicates and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied using statistics version-8.1. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of sixteen secondary metabolites. Fourteen functional groups were identified through FTIR. S. lappa root methanolic (SLRM) showed maximum antioxidant activity index (AAI-79.42%) whereas chloroform extract of leaves (SLLC) gave highest antibacterial activity with maximum zone of inhibition (ZOI) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21.4 mm). Maximum cytotoxicity was observed for SLRM with lethal dose concentration (LC₅₀) of 58.8 µg/mL. However, root extracts showed significant phytotoxicity (15% germination). The current study investigated that bioactive compounds present in S. lappa leaves, seed, flower and roots were responsible for enhanced biological potentials. Further studies on isolation and characterization of these bioactive compounds may help in drug development. In future, we recommend different in-vitro and in-vivo studies to further confirm it biopharmacological potencies.

Ginger-derived compounds exert in vivo and in vitro anti-asthmatic effects by inhibiting the T-helper 2 cell-mediated allergic response

6-Shogaol (SHO) and 6-gingerol (GIN), naturally derived compounds of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), have been found to have anti-allergic effects on dermatitis-like skin lesions and rhinitis. Although SHO and GIN have demonstrated a potential in various inflammatory diseases, their efficacy and mechanism in asthma have not been largely examined. Therefore, the present study demonstrated the anti-asthmatic effects of SHO and GIN on the T-helper (Th) 2 cell-mediated allergic response pathway in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model. The asthma mouse model was established with an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 50 µg OVA and 1 mg aluminum hydroxide with or without an i.p. injection of SHO and GIN (10 mg/kg) before treatment with OVA. In addition, the current study assessed mast cell degranulation in antigen-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells under different treatment conditions (SHO or GIN at 0, 10, 25, 50 and 100 nM) and determined the mRNA and protein levels of anti-oxidative enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD)1, SOD2, glutathione peroxidase-1/2, catalase] in lung tissues. SHO and GIN inhibited eosinophilia in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids and H&E-stained lung tissues. Both factors also decreased mucus production in periodic acid-Schiff-stained lung tissues and the levels of Th2 cytokines in these tissues. GIN attenuated oxidative stress by upregulating the expression levels of anti-oxidative proteins. In an in vitro experiment, the degranulation of RBL-2H3 rat mast cells was significantly decreased. It was found that SHO and GIN effectively suppressed the allergic response in the mouse model by inhibiting eosinophilia and Th2 cytokine production. Collectively, it was suggested that SHO can inhibit lung inflammation by attenuating the Th2 cell-mediated allergic response signals, and that GIN can inhibit lung inflammation and epithelial cell remodeling by repressing oxidative stress. Therefore, SHO and GIN could be used therapeutically for allergic and eosinophilic asthma.

Costunolide-Induced Apoptosis via Promoting the Reactive Oxygen Species and Inhibiting AKT/GSK3β Pathway and Activating Autophagy in Gastric Cancer

Objective: Costunolide (Cos) is a sesquiterpene lactone extracted from chicory. Although it possesses anti-tumor effects, the underlying molecular mechanism against gastric cancer cells remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect and potential mechanism of Cos on gastric cancer.

Methods: The effect of Cos on HGC-27 and SNU-1 proliferation was detected by CCK-8 and clone formation assay. The changes in cell apoptosis were determined using Hoechst 33258 and tunel staining. The morphology of autophagy was analyzed by autophagosomes with the electron microscope and LC3-immunofluorescence with the confocal microscope. The related protein levels of the cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy and AKT/GSK3β pathway were determined by Western blot. The anti-tumor activity of Cos was evaluated by subcutaneously xenotransplanting HGC-27 into Balb/c nude mice. The Ki67 and P-AKT levels were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results: Cos significantly inhibited HGC-27 and SNU-1 growth and induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Cos activated intrinsic apoptosis and autophagy through promoting cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and inhibiting the ROS-AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Moreover, preincubating gastric carcinoma cells with 3-methyladenine (3-MA), a cell-autophagy inhibitor, significantly alleviated the effects of Cos in inducing cell apoptosis.

Conclusion: Cos induced apoptosis of gastric carcinoma cells via promoting ROS and inhibiting AKT/GSK3β pathway and activating pro-death cell autophagy, which may be an effective strategy to treat gastric cancer.

Tanshinone IIA improves degranulation of mast cells and allergic rhinitis induced by ovalbumin by inhibiting the PLCγ1/PKC/IP3R pathway

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common allergic inflammatory and chronic reactive disease caused by allergen-induced immunoglobulin E (IgE). Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is one of the active ingredients in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) and plays a vital role in inhibiting inflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that Tan IIA has anti-allergic effects and studied the function of Tan IIA in mast cells and an AR animal model. We induced RBL-2H3 cell sensitization with monoclonal anti-2,4,6-dinitrophenyl-immunoglobulin (Ig) E/human serum albumin (DNP-IgE/HSA) and constructed an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR model in mice. The role of Tan IIA in AR progression was studied using the MTT assay, ELISA, western blot, toluidine blue staining, HE staining, and Alcian blue and safranin O (A&S) staining. Tan IIA treatment significantly increased IgE/HSA-induced cell viability. However, Tan IIA treatment markedly downregulated the expression levels of β-hexosaminidase, histamine, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), IL-4, and IL-5 in IgE/HSA-induced cells. Furthermore, Tan IIA improved typical symptoms in the OVA-induced AR model mice by inhibiting the phospholipase Cγ1 (PLCγ1)/protein kinase C (PKC)/IP3R pathway. Additionally, Tan IIA effectively improved the degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells and OVA-induced AR in mice. Together, these results suggest that Tan IIA may be a potential drug for the treatment of AR in the future.

Role of STAT3 Transcription Factor in Pathogenesis of Bronchial Asthma

Bronchial asthma is a heterogeneous chronic inflammatory disease of airways. The studies of molecular and cellular mechanisms of bronchial asthma have established that a wide range of immune (T and B cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, etc.) and structural (epithelial and endothelial) cells are involved in its pathogenesis. These cells are activated in response to external stimuli (bacteria, viruses, allergens, and other pollutants) and produce pro-inflammatory factors (cytokines, chemokines, metalloproteinases, etc.), which ultimately leads to the initiation of pathological processes in the lungs. Genes encoding transcription factors of the STAT family (signal transducer and activator of transcription), that includes seven representatives, are involved in the cell activation. Recent studies have shown that the transcription factor STAT3 plays an important role in the activation of the abovementioned cells, thus contributing to the development of asthma. In animal studies, selective inhibition of STAT3 significantly reduces the severity of lung inflammation, which indicates its potential as a therapeutic target. In this review, we describe the mechanisms of STAT3 activation and its role in polarization of Th2/Th17 cells and M2 macrophages, as well as in the dysfunction of endothelial cells, which ultimately leads to development of bronchial asthma symptoms, such as infiltration of neutrophils and eosinophils into the lungs, bronchial hyperreactivity, and the respiratory tract remodeling.

Alantolactone: A sesquiterpene lactone with diverse pharmacological effects

Alantolactone (Ala) is a sesquiterpene lactone that can be isolated from many herbal plants belonging to Asteraceae. Besides the antimicrobial activities against bacteria, fungi and viruses, Ala has also demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects in various models by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPKs to decrease the pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. The antitumor effects of Ala have been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo via inducing intrinsic apoptosis, oxidative stress, ER stress, cell cycle arrest and inhibiting autophagy and STAT3 phosphorylation, which are also involved in its combination or synergy with other antitumor drugs. Ala also has neuroprotective activity through attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation, besides its modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. This review summarizes the recent advances of the pharmacological effects of Ala, including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, neuroprotective activities, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Ala might be employed as a potential lead to develop drugs for multiple diseases.

Alantolactone Suppresses Proliferation and the Inflammatory Response in Human HaCaT Keratinocytes and Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Skin Lesions in a Psoriasis-Like Mouse Model

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects 2% to 3% of the world population. Alantolactone, a sesquiterpene lactone, was isolated from Inula helenium and Radix inulae and has several biological effects, including antifungal, anthelmintic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitrypanosomal, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to evaluate the antipsoriatic potential of alantolactone in vitro and in vivo and to explore its underlying mechanisms. These results showed that alantolactone significantly attenuated IL-17A, IL-22, oncostatin M, IL-1α, and TNF-α (M5) cytokine-induced hyperproliferation in HaCaT keratinocytes. Moreover, M5 cytokines significantly upregulated the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-8. However, alantolactone attenuated the upregulation of these inflammatory cytokines. In addition, alantolactone was found to inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation and NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation in HaCaT keratinocytes. Furthermore, alantolactone treatment in mice significantly alleviated the severity of skin lesions (erythema, scaling and epidermal thickness, and inflammatory cell infiltration) and decreased the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-17A, and IL-23) in an IMQ-induced-like mouse model. Therefore, our new findings revealed that alantolactone alleviates psoriatic skin lesions by inhibiting inflammation, making it an attractive candidate for future development as an antipsoriatic agent.

Stevia Genus: Phytochemistry and Biological Activities Update

The Stevia genus (Asteraceae) comprises around 230 species, distributed from the southern United States to the South American Andean region. Stevia rebaudiana, a Paraguayan herb that produces an intensely sweet diterpene glycoside called stevioside, is the most relevant member of this genus. Apart from S. rebaudiana, many other species belonging to the Stevia genus are considered medicinal and have been popularly used to treat different ailments. The members from this genus produce sesquiterpene lactones, diterpenes, longipinanes, and flavonoids as the main types of phytochemicals. Many pharmacological activities have been described for Stevia extracts and isolated compounds, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities being the most frequently mentioned. This review aims to present an update of the Stevia genus covering ethnobotanical aspects and traditional uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of the extracts and isolated compounds.

Indian Medicinal Plants and Formulations and Their Potential Against COVID-19-Preclinical and Clinical Research

The cases of COVID-19 are still increasing day-by-day worldwide, even after a year of its first occurrence in Wuhan city of China. The spreading of SARS-CoV-2 infection is very fast and different from other SARS-CoV infections possibly due to structural differences in S proteins. The patients with severe diseases may die due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by systemic inflammatory reactions due to the excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines by the immune effector cells. In India too, it is spreading very rapidly, although the case fatality rate is below 1.50% (https://www.statista.com), which is markedly less than in other countries, despite the dense population and minimal health infrastructure in rural areas. This may be due to the routine use of many immunomodulator medicinal plants and traditional AYUSH formulations by the Indian people. This communication reviews the AYUSH recommended formulations and their ingredients, routinely used medicinal plants and formulations by Indian population as well as other promising Indian medicinal plants, which can be tested against COVID-19. Special emphasis is placed on Indian medicinal plants reported for antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-allergic/anti-inflammatory activities and they are categorized for prioritization in research on the basis of earlier reports. The traditional AYUSH medicines currently under clinical trials against COVID-19 are also discussed as well as furtherance of pre-clinical and clinical testing of the potential traditional medicines against COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2. The results of the clinical studies on AYUSH drugs will guide the policymakers from the AYUSH systems of medicines to maneuver their policies for public health, provide information to the global scientific community and could form a platform for collaborative studies at national and global levels. It is thereby suggested that promising AYUSH formulations and Indian medicinal plants must be investigated on a priority basis to solve the current crisis.

Anti-type I allergic effects of Jing-Fang powder extracts via PI3K/Akt pathway in vitro and in vivo

Jing-Fang powder (Schizonepeta tenuifolia Briq. and Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk.) was used to treat chronic bronchitis, asthma and chronic urticaria. Based on the preliminary results of screening research on the antiallergic effective parts of Jing-Fang powder, its ethyl acetate extract fractions (JFEE) and isolate D (JFEE-D) showed the best anti-allergic effect. RBL-2H3 cell activation degranulation model and mice passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction model were used to investigate the effects and mechanisms of JFEE and JFEE-D on IgE-mediated type I allergic reactions. LC-MS was utilized to determine the composition of JFEE and JFEE-D. We found that JFEE and JFEE-D significantly reduced β-HEX, histamine, IL-4, IL-6 levels in cell supernatants, and improved the degree and morphology of cell degranulation. JFEE and JFEE-D significantly inhibited the increase of ear vascular permeability and abnormal increase of serum IgE, TNF-α, IL-6 levels. JFEE and JFEE-D inhibited mRNA expression of PI3K and Akt and down-regulated protein expression of PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, and PLCγ1 in sensitized RBL-2H3 cells. The combined use of JFEE and JFEE-D with pathway inhibitor Wortmannin revealed synergistic down-regulation of PI3K, Akt, and p-Akt protein expression. The combined use of pathway agonist IGF-1, JFEE and JFEE-D down-regulated increase of p-Akt/Akt protein expression. Moreover, JFEE and JFEE-D significantly inhibited protein expression of PI3K, p-Akt and PLCγ1 in PCA model mice. These results show that JFEE and JFEE-D inhibit type I allergic reactions by inhibiting PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Suppressive Effect of CYM50358 S1P4 Antagonist on Mast Cell Degranulation and Allergic Asthma in Mice

Levels of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), an intercellular signaling molecule, reportedly increase in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids of patients with asthma. Although the type 4 S1P receptor, S1P₄ has been detected in mast cells, its functions have been poorly investigated in an allergic asthma model in vivo. S1P₄ functions were evaluated following treatment of CYM50358, a selective antagonist of S1P₄, in an ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model, and antigen-induced degranulation of mast cells. CYM50358 inhibited antigen-induced degranulation in RBL-2H3 mast cells. Eosinophil accumulation and an increase of Th2 cytokine levels were measured in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and via the inflammation of the lungs in ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma mice. CYM50358 administration before ovalbumin sensitization and before the antigen challenge strongly inhibited the increase of eosinophils and lymphocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. CYM50358 administration inhibited the increase of IL-4 cytokines and serum IgE levels. Histological studies revealed that CYM50358 reduced inflammatory scores and PAS (periodic acid–Schiff)-stained cells in the lungs. The pro-allergic functions of S1P₄ were elucidated using in vitro mast cells and in vivo ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model experiments. These results suggest that S1P₄ antagonist CYM50358 may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of allergic asthma.

Suppressive Effect of Carnosol on Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma

Asthma is a chronic obstructive lung disease characterized by recurrent episodes of bronchoconstriction and wheezing. Conventional asthma treatment involves the suppression of airway inflammation or improving airway flow. Rosmarinus officialis, also known as rosemary, is a Mediterranean plant that is used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Carnosol, a diterpenoid found in rosemary extracts, has been known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-oxidant effects. The effect of carnosol on allergic responses has not been tested yet. The effect of carnosol on a murine allergic asthma model were investigated. Carnosol inhibited the degranulation of RBL-2H3 mast cells. Carnosol treatment inhibited the increase in the number of eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) of mice treated with ovalbumin. Carnosol treatment also inhibited inflammatory responses and mucin production in histologic studies. Carnosol treatment inhibited the increases of IL-4 and IL-13 cytokines expression in both BALF and the lungs. These results suggest that carnosol may have a potential for allergic asthma therapy.

Sesquiterpene Polygodial from Drimys brasiliensis (Winteraceae) Down-Regulates Implant-Induced Inflammation and Fibrogenesis in Mice

Drimys brasiliensis (Winteraceae) has been investigated in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat gastric ulcers and allergic and respiratory system diseases as well as for cancer treatment. In this work, we investigate the ability of the sesquiterpene polygodial, isolated from D. brasiliensis stem barks, to modulate the chronic inflammatory response induced by polyester-polyurethane sponge implants in C57BL/6J mice. Daily treatment with polygodial inhibited the macrophage content in the implants as determined by the activity of the N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase enzyme as well as decreased the levels of CXCL1/KC and CCL2/JE/MCP-1 pro-inflammatory chemokines and the presence of mast cells along the formed fibrovascular tissue. Similarly, the deposition of a new extracellular matrix (total collagen and type I and III collagen fibers) as well as the production of the TGF-β1 cytokine were attenuated in implants treated with polygodial, showing for the first time its antifibrogenic capacity. The hemoglobin content, the number of newly formed vessels, and the levels of VEGF cytokine, which were used as parameters for the assessment of the neovascularization of the implants, did not change after treatment with polygodial. The anti-inflammatory and antifibrogenic effects of polygodial over the components of the granulation tissue induced by the sponge implant indicate a therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory diseases associated with the development of fibrovascular tissue.

Aucklandia costus (Syn. Saussurea costus): Ethnopharmacology of an endangered medicinal plant of the himalayan region

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aucklandia costus Falc. a medicinal plant is native to the Himalayan region and synonymous with Saussurea costus, Saussurea lappa, and Aucklandia lappa. It has an ancient background of being used ethnopharmacologically for various body ailments. According to Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Costus roots are recommended for leukoderma, liver, kidney, blood disorders, Qi stagnation, and tridosha. Root and powder are used orally with warm water to cure gastric problems, and the paste is applied to the inflamed area to relieve pain. Root paste is applied on the skin to cure boils, blisters, and leprosy.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present review is to establish a correlation among the ethnopharmacological uses and scientific studies conducted on A. costus with chemical constituents, safety & toxicity data including future directions for its conservation with higher yield and effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted by studying books, research papers, and literature in history, agroforestry, phytopharmacology of Himalayan plants using international databases, publication, Red data book, and reports. The search engines: Pubmed, Scopus, Wiley Inter-science, Indian Materia Medica, Science Direct, and referred journals are referenced.

RESULTS

The literature collected from databases, journals, websites, and books mentioned the use of costus roots in local and traditional practices. CITES included A. costus in a critically endangered category due to lack of cultural practices and overexploitation from wild. A. costus roots are known since 13th century for use in ancient Ayurvedic products but the scientific evaluation is of future research interest. A correlation of traditional uses with scientific studies has been explored to assess the effect of root powder, extract, oil and isolated constituents: Costunolids, Saussureamine B and Dehydrocostus lactone etc. in gastric ulceration and lesions; inhibition of antigen-induced degranulation, mucin production, number of immune cells, eosinophils, and expression and secretion of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in asthma. The inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators is also reported by Cynaropicrin, Alantolactone, Caryophyllene, Costic acid. Also, the sesquiterpene lactones has profound effect in inhibition of inflammatory stages and induced apoptotic cascades in cancer. Very few data on the safety and toxicity of plant parts have been noted which needs to be evaluated scientifically.

CONCLUSION

A. costus have been noted to have remarkable effect for gastric, hepatic, inflammatory, respiratory, cancer, skin problems but there were several errors in selection of plant material, authentification, selection of dose, assessment, selection of standard and control have been identified. Therefore, a schematic drug development and research strategy exploiting the potential of plant extract, fraction, products and probable constituents, costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone, cynaropicrin, saussureamine assuring dose-response relationship and safety may be determined under pre-clinical which may be extrapolated to clinical level. An evaluation of phytochemicals in A. costus collected from different geographical location in Himalayas may be drawn to identify and conserve the higher yielding plant.

Impact of sesquiterpene lactones on the skin and skin-related cells? A systematic review of in vitro and in vivo evidence

Although anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to sesquiterpene lactones (SL), cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions are proposed as limitations for SL-based therapies. Thus, the impact of SL on the skin and skin-related cells was systematically reviewed. Studies indexed in electronic databases were screened from the PRISMA strategy. The risk of bias in all studies was verified from the SYRCLE's tool. Thirty original studies were recovered and analyzed. Mice and guinea pig, keratinocytes and fibroblasts were predominantly investigated from in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. In vivo studies indicated that most SL induced contact dermatitis associated with edema, erythema, and inflammatory infiltrate. Conversely, in vitro evidence was consistent with a dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effect of SL in response to reduced cytokines, 5-LOX, and COX-2 levels or activity in keratinocytes, fibroblasts, macrophages and dendritic cells; which are events potentially triggered by downregulation of gene expression and/or inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. In vivo studies presented uncertain to high-risk of bias mainly associated with underreporting of randomization and experimental blinding. The current evidence supports potent cutaneous immunomodulatory properties of SL. Although in vitro and in vivo studies indicate opposite anti- or proinflammatory effects, this contradiction exhibits a dose-dependent component. In addition, the anti-inflammatory pathways activated by SL are better understood from in vitro evidence. However, additional studies are required to elucidating specific anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory mechanisms triggered by SL in vivo. Thus, controlling the sources of bias described in this review can contribute to improving the quality of the evidence in further investigations.

Costunolide Plays an Anti-Neuroinflammation Role in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced BV2 Microglial Activation by Targeting Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2

Hyperactivation of microglia in the brain is closely related to neuroinflammation and leads to neuronal dysfunction. Costunolide (CTL) is a natural sesquiterpene lactone with wide pharmacological activities including anti-inflammation and antioxidation. In this study, we found that CTL significantly inhibited the production of inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglia. Moreover, CTL effectively attenuated IKKβ/NF-κB signaling pathway activation. To identify direct cellular target of CTL, we performed high-throughput reverse virtual screening assay using scPDB protein structure library, and found cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) was the most specific binding protein for CTL. We further confirmed the binding ability of CTL with CDK2 using cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assays. Surface plasmon resonance analysis also supported that CTL specifically bound to CDK2 with a dissociation constant at micromole level. Furthermore, knocking down CDK2 obviously reversed the anti-inflammation effect of CTL via AKT/IKKβ/NF-κB signaling pathway on BV-2 cells. Collectively, these results indicate that CTL inhibits microglia-mediated neuroinflammation through directly targeting CDK2, and provide insights into the role of CDK2 as a promising anti-neuroinflammation therapeutic target.

Analysis of the similarities and differences between Auclandia and Vladimirae rhizomes by chemical profiling and chemometric analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aucklandiae Radix (AR) and Vladimiriae Radix (VR), as traditional Chinese medicine, have been included in many editions of Chinese Pharmacopoeia with similar efficacy such as promoting qi and relieving pain, which are used to treat chest, hypochondriac, abdominal fullness and pain, diarrhea and tenesmus. In most conditions, VR is used to be a substitute of AR or a local habit. However, whether VR could substitute for AR to play a same role in the formulation and clinical applications needs further study.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, similarities and differences between AR and VR would be assessed, and possible reasons that may influence the efficacy of the AR and VR would be explained from the perspective of chemical composition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPLC-PDA was used to obtain the data of 10 batches of AR and VR, and to establish chemical fingerprint and chemometric analysis. UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS was used to identify the structure of chemical compounds which contributed to the differences between AR and VR.

RESULTS

The chemical fingerprint analysis results showed that 20 peaks in common for AR and 26 peaks in common for VR both presented a good similarity (>0.9), and 15 peaks in common for AR and VR also showed a good similarity (>0.9). Nevertheless, chemometric showed AR was distinct from VR and three chemical compounds, which leading to their differences, were identified by UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS. The three chemical compounds were 3β-acetoxy-11β-guaia-4 (15),10 (14)-diene-12,6α-olide, 10α,14-epoxy-11β-guaia-4 (15)-ene-12,6α-olide and costunolide, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In general, AR and VR were highly similar, but their differences were deserved to be paid attention to. This research could provide reference for quality control and set a foundation for clinical applications of AR and VR.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Medicinal Plants used for Vitiligo in Traditional Persian Medicine

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is a hypopigmentation disorder that affects 1% of the world's population. Vitiligo causes white spots on the skin, mucous membranes, or white hair by destroying skin melanocytes. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is unknown but autoimmune, autocytotoxic, and neural mechanisms are suggested. According to the autoimmune theory, in people with vitiligo, immune cells invade and damage melanocytes. T cells are more commonly present in vitiligo patients' skin and remain in the lesion site, which is composed of CD8 and CD4 T cells. Many studies have been conducted on the presence and role of cytokines such as interleukins and interferongamma (IFN-γ) in the vitiligo process.

AIM

This study aimed to introduce herbs effective against vitiligo from the perspective of Persian medicine and to investigate their possible therapeutic mechanisms with the possible effects of herbs on autoimmune mechanisms.

METHODS

For this purpose, keywords were used to extract data from Persian medicine textbooks, and then relevant scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were examined.

RESULTS

It was found that Persian medicine scholars used 50 different medicinal plants to treat and reduce the complications of vitiligo, and recent scientific studies have proven immune-regulating properties and reducing the effect of many of them on cytokines.

CONCLUSION

According to scientific evidence on immunomodulatory effects, new research into the effects of these plants on vitiligo can lead to the discovery of new drugs and approaches for treating this disease.

Applications of Sesquiterpene Lactones: A Review of Some Potential Success Cases

Sesquiterpene lactones, a vast range of terpenoids isolated from Asteraceae species, exhibit a broad spectrum of biological effects and several of them are already commercially available, such as artemisinin. Here the most recent and impactful results of in vivo, preclinical and clinical studies involving a selection of ten sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, arglabin, costunolide, cynaropicrin, helenalin, inuviscolide, lactucin, parthenolide, thapsigargin and tomentosin) are presented and discussed, along with some of their derivatives. In the authors’ opinion, these compounds have been neglected compared to others, although they could be of great use in developing important new pharmaceutical products. The selected sesquiterpenes show promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, acting on various targets. Moreover, they exhibit antifungal, anxiolytic, analgesic, and antitrypanosomal activities. Several studies discussed here clearly show the potential that some of them have in combination therapy, as sensitizing agents to facilitate and enhance the action of drugs in clinical use. The derivatives show greater pharmacological value since they have better pharmacokinetics, stability, potency, and/or selectivity. All these natural terpenoids and their derivatives exhibit properties that invite further research by the scientific community.

Costunolide induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in H1299 lung cancer cells

Costunolide being a sesquiterpene lactone, is known to have anticancer properties. The present study investigated the anticancer effects of costunolide against the H1299 human non‑small‑cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line. Inhibition of cell viability by costunolide was assessed via a MTT assay. Furthermore, the apoptotic rate was detected using Annexin V/propidium iodide labeling. A colony forming cell assay was performed to investigate the antiproliferative effects of costunolide. Wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to determine the inhibitory effects of costunolide on migration and invasion, respectively. Western blot analysis was undertaken to determine protein expression, and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR was performed to assess mRNA expression levels. The results demonstrated that costunolide inhibited the viability of H1299 cells, with a half maximal inhibitory concentration value of 23.93±1.67 µM and induced cellular apoptosis in a dose‑dependent manner. Furthermore, the colony formation, migrative and invasive abilities of the H1299 cells were inhibited in a dose‑ or time‑dependent manner. The protein expression levels of E‑cadherin increased and those of N‑cadherin decreased following treatment with costunolide, which suggested that costunolide inhibited epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition. The mRNA levels of B‑Raf, E‑cadherin, N‑cadherin, integrins α2 and β1, as well as matrix metalloproteinases 2 were also found to be regulated costunolide. These findings indicate the potential of costunolide in the treatment of NSCLC.

Sesquiterpenoids from Saussurea costus

Sixteen sesquiterpenoids (1 - 16), including two new compounds namely saussucostusosides A and B (1 and 2), were isolated from the roots of Saussurea costus by various chromatographic separations. Their structures were elucidated by 1 D and 2 D NMR and HR-QTOF-MS experiments. Among isolated compounds, costunlide (6), 3β-[4-hydroxymethacryloyloxy]-8α-hydroxycostunolide (10) and 11β,13-dihydrozaluzanin C (16) exhibited potent inhibitory effects on LPS-induced NO production in RAW264.7 cells with IC₅₀ values of 7.08 ± 0.34, 2.40 ± 0.06 and 5.55 ± 0.24 µM, respectively.

Costunolide-A Bioactive Sesquiterpene Lactone with Diverse Therapeutic Potential

Sesquiterpene lactones constitute a major class of bioactive natural products. One of the naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactones is costunolide, which has been extensively investigated for a wide range of biological activities. Multiple lines of preclinical studies have reported that the compound possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, bone remodeling, neuroprotective, hair growth promoting, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. Many of these bioactivities are supported by mechanistic details, such as the modulation of various intracellular signaling pathways involved in precipitating tissue inflammation, tumor growth and progression, bone loss, and neurodegeneration. The key molecular targets of costunolide include, but are not limited to, intracellular kinases, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases, Akt kinase, telomerase, cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases, and redox-regulated transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-kappaB, signal transducer and activator of transcription, activator protein-1. The compound also diminished the production and/expression of proinflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitric oxide, prostaglandins, and cytokines. This review provides an overview of the therapeutic potential of costunolide in the management of various diseases and their underlying mechanisms.

Suppressive effects of type I angiotensin receptor antagonists, candesartan and irbesartan on allergic asthma

The effects of candesartan and irbesartan, antagonists of the type I angiotensin II receptor, were investigated on allergic asthma. The antigen-induced degranulation was measured by evaluating β-hexosaminidase activity in vitro. Additionally, a murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model was used to test the in vivo efficacy. It was observed that while candesartan inhibited the antigen-induced degranulation in rat RBL-2H3 mast cells, irbesartan did not. Administration of candesartan and irbesartan decreased the number of immune cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and reduced the expression of Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and Th1 cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-γ) in the lung tissues of mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. Histological studies revealed that both antagonists reduced inflammation and mucin production in the lungs. Therefore, these findings provide evidence that candesartan and irbesartan could have potential applications as anti-allergic agents.

Anti-allergic effects of salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA from Salvia miltiorrhiza determined using in vivo and in vitro experiments

Salvia miltiorrhiza root has been used in Asian traditional medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and other conditions. Salvianolic acid B from S. miltiorrhiza extracts has been shown to improve airway hyperresponsiveness. We investigated the effects of salvianolic acid A, tanshinone I, and tanshinone IIA from S. miltiorrhiza in allergic asthma by using rat RBL-2H3 mast cells and female Balb/c mice. Antigen-induced degranulation was assessed by measuring β-hexosaminidase activity in vitro. In addition, a murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model was used to test the in vivo efficacy of salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA. Tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA inhibited antigen-induced degranulation of mast cells, but salvianolic acid A did not. Administration of salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA decreased the number of immune cells, particularly eosinophils in allergic asthma-induced mice. Histological studies showed that salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA reduced mucin production and inflammation in the lungs. Administration of salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA reduced the expression and secretion of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues of mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. These findings provide evidence that salvianolic acid A and tanshinone IIA may be potential anti-allergic therapeutics.

Suppressive Effect of 4-Hydroxy-2-(4-Hydroxyphenethyl) Isoindoline-1,3-Dione on Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma

4-Hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenethyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione (PD1) is a synthetic phthalimide derivative of a marine compound. PD1 has peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ agonistic and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of PD1 on allergic asthma using rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 mast cells and an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model. In vitro, PD1 suppressed β-hexosaminidase activity in RBL-2H3 cells. In the OVA-induced allergic asthma mouse model, increased inflammatory cells and elevated Th2 and Th1 cytokine levels were observed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue. PD1 administration decreased the numbers of inflammatory cells, especially eosinophils, and reduced the mRNA and protein levels of the Th2 cytokines including interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, in BALF and lung tissue. The severity of inflammation and mucin secretion in the lungs of PD1-treated mice was also less. These findings indicate that PD1 could be a potential compound for anti-allergic therapy.